STRAW POLL: FINAL RESULTS!
"Final Results" as of this evening (377 participants):
GOVERNOR: Charlie Crist 51% Jim Davis 35% Max Linn 14%
COUNTY COMMISSIONER (Dist. #2): Jim Payton 51% Darlene Weesner 49%
COUNTY COMMISSIONER (Dist. #4): Barbara Fitos 49% Randy Harris 51%
SCHOOL BOARD (Dist. #5): Ron Crawford 54% Joyce Romanski 46%
STATE REP. (Dist. #24): Dennis Baxley 52% James Walker 48%
STATE REP. (Dist. #22): Larry Cretul 54% Macky Thurman 46%
STATE SENATE (Dist. #14): Ed Jennings 48% Steve Oelrich 52%
ROAD TAX: Yes 49% No 51%
Our final results have a few interesting trends worth mentioning. While the results, in general, pretty much pattern the update results of a week or so ago, some observations:
-- Darlene Weesner has narrowed the gap versus Jim Payton. This one looks to be close.
-- Randy Harris maintained a very narrow margin over Barbara Fitos. Actual vote difference is only + 5. Another, squeaker.
-- The high vote count for Max Linn is going to be interesting to watch. We doubt that the local results will be anywhere near 14%. However, with some apparent local coolness to both the R/D Governor candidates, who knows!
-- We discovered a high correlation between the voters for Jim Davis also voting for the local sales tax issue (Yes). Dem turnout may influence the result.
-- The sales tax issue is likely going to be much closer than the Straw Poll results indicate. At one time there was a 10% point advantage to the “NO” votes. That has been narrowed to + 2%. Based on the trend of the most recent 25 votes in our poll, that margin might very well continue to narrow. The heavy advertising by the tax supporters seems to be having some last-minute influence. We’ll see come Tuesday!
Thanks to Insiteful Surveys for helping conduct the survey. We did have a few bloggers who cast multiple votes. Fortunately, the tracking system enabled us to “eliminate” most of the ballot stuffing that was attempted.
Please vote on November 7!
posted by Blog Master @ 4:21 PM
67 Comments:
I'd bet the tax passes.
Max Linn will get a high proportion of votes in Marion County. Much more than he is supposed to get throughout the rest of the state.
Commenting on where the straw poll results may differ with Tuesday's outcome:
STATE SENATE DISTRICT 14:
The most striking difference will be regarding the Senate District 14 race between Ed Jennings, Jr. and Steve Oelrich. Living in this District, the mailings have numbered close to 20, and starting even before the primary election was over. Oelrich knew he couldn't win a positive campaign, however, it appears the campaign ads have been controlled by both State Parties. Anyone remember how the commercials after the World Series Games were as awful as some of the Tiger's errors?
Finally, this District encompasses all of Alachua County, is over 60% Dems, and Jennings had very strong Primary support. Tuesday's results will likely be closer to 55% Jennings, 45% Oelrich.
ONE CENT ROAD SURTAX:
I have philosophical differences with regressive taxation, and as well with all Citizens having to pay for POOR planning by our Marion County "leaders." On the issue of growth, it is disgusting Marion has been subsidizing development by not charging the appropriate impact fees (tho plan on less spare change).
Reasoning, thinking back and reviewing the Tourist Surtax vote results from two years ago, the Tourist Tax increase actually passed relatively easily for a service without any immediate or direct benefit to citizens/voters, and a service with high administrative costs. Also, it was the early and absentee voters that approved the surtax with wide margins (unless fewer voters mean more "NO" Votes?)
Moreover, I have not heard a large outcry that this Road's tax would necessarily be entirely unfair and unjust. Also, no comments have been spoken on how Un-Unincorporated Marion the projects will be.
Finally, I personally would have appreciated an apology to explain why we're having to pay catch up.
Concluding, I can easily understand a wider margin "victory" than the Tourism Surtax, as voters will know the money will be collected at a smaller rate than a property tax increase. Voters will SEE and should directly benefit from the improvements.
COUNTY COMMISSION RACES:
Both races could go either way, with more Citizens actually having reason to dislike Harris more than Payton (that is, I understand more people dislike Harris in higher numbers, no matter their political persuasion). Also, I have not heard an outcry that people personally dislike Weesner and Fitos.
As I could not find any 2002 election results online for these races, but It is my understanding that the vote totals for both men were close in their victories.
Is it the year of the Woman? Will woman really ignore their party affiliations, and overcome the men supporting men?
Darlene Weesner has run before, and therefore her name is recognized. An Environmentalist is also a Big positive for a Community concerned over growth matters.
Barbara Fitos has many connections in typical Republican circles, and has a tremendous record of Community Support.
Working in Fitos' favor, is if there will be any anti incumbent backlash in our County races, it will show up against Harris. Generally, the more aware people have been of Harris, the more they have disliked him. Also, I think everyone has heard about his bullying, and him trying to make himself into a local noticed extremist and social conservative big mouth. Additionally, will voters wonder if he is related to the even more disliked Katherine (interesting?)?
Concluding, it is probably clear that my politics lean highly towards the Women and retiring Harris, and I would like to see both Women elected. I also like how they have shared like views, as if they are being elected as a team.
However, it will probably only one, and which one, we will know late Tuesday evening.
I am interested in reading your comments and reasonings, before and after Tuesday...
Richard.
Richard...You may be right on Oelrich vs. Jennings. The blog poll covers mostly bloggers in marion county, a small part of that senate district. So the results may be different for the entire district.
Richard wrote "
Concluding, I can easily understand a wider margin "victory" than the Tourism Surtax, as voters will know the money will be collected at a smaller rate than a property tax increase. Voters will SEE and should directly benefit from the improvements."
Richard, you have bought into the big lie that turned me against the road tax. The committee sponsoring those ads claims your property tax increase will be more than ten times your annual sales tax. Nothing could be further from the truth.
First, property taxes are NOT the only solution available. A combination of higher impact fees, the five cent gas tax available, and some work in Tallahassee to get them to pay their fair share of the road improvements necessary on the state roads they suddenly dropped on counties would go a long way toward paying the bill.
Second, there is a conmstitutional limit on property taxes which can be applied to this use. Someone didn't do their home work, just pulled their scare tactics out of the bag.
I will bet you dinner there will be no property tax increase at all if this thing fails. I supported the one eight years ago, but not this one with the false and misleading advertising the supporters put out. --pwf
Yo, Richard you're on a roll my man!!!
I predict two upsets: (1) Barbara Fitos and (2) James Walker. Both will win.
DREAM ON!!!!
PWF, I do not necessarily disagree with your calculation of the effects on property taxes if the Road Surtax fails. However, the "Save our Homes" 3% limit is based on the Assessed value of property, and not a 3% limit on the gross property taxes (see a portion of Florida Statute 193.155 below).
Therefore, the Save our Home's provision actually is explained by many assessor's as a limit on the increases of the assessed value of a parcel (land and/or home), and not the amount of taxes paid. The Millage, determined by the various taxing authorities, may increase or decrease as those taxing authorities determine their budgets, and are not limited to 3% .
FLORIDA STATUTE 193.155 Cited:
(1) Beginning in 1995, or the year following the year the property receives homestead exemption, whichever is later, the property shall be reassessed annually on January 1. Any change resulting from such reassessment shall not exceed the lower of the following:
(a) Three percent of the assessed value of the property for the prior year; or
(b) The percentage change in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, U.S. City Average, all items 1967=100, or successor reports for the preceding calendar year as initially reported by the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Richard.
You are correct Richard, but the constitution sets limits on millage. Any increase in property tax millage (and believe me there will be none for this purpose) will be no where close to the ten times figure the committee claimed in its false adtertising.
We will know soon . . . 7.5% for seven years . . . that's a pretty heavy hit. County me out. --pwf
Ok, it is time for a prediction, and I almost forgot it. Been too busy this week! It’s too early for humans to be up, but here I am. I have waited for some issue that might swing things. I certainly have no way of knowing what might happen tomorrow, and my predictions are no indication of how I might vote in some races.
Senate. I have never liked Nelson. He is a small suit in a big job. I have always liked Katherine Harris, even though she has made some bad and fatal moves in her campaign. Nelson will win 54-56% of the vote.
Governor. I am lost on this one. Crist is a weak suit, Davis even a weaker one, and Linn a non factor unless the race is closer than I think. I see a lot of people holding their nose and voting for either of Crist or Davis. I gag and say Crist 52%.
Congress: 18 years ago, Stearns promised he would come home and run his businesses after three or four terms, but Bruderly is not a strong enough candidate to make me want to give up 18 years of Seniority. Stearns is a conservative and correct on most issues. Stearns gets about 54%.
Congress: I had high hopes for Ric Keller when he first ran, but he has not paid any attention to his rather large part of Marion County that I can see. His opponent, Stuart, is the son of a man I greatly admired, George Stuart, but Charlie is weak. Keller by 53%.
State Rep: Dennis Baxley has always had an easy run, winning by 60% or more. I strongly disagree with his stand that you have to “go along to get along” with the leadership. I believe the leadership would appreciate someone standing up to them sometime, rather than having the reputation of a lap dog. I like this guy Walker. I believe he has shown fine leadership qualifies, and I admire a candidate who steps up to the plate against someone with the ability to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars. I will pray for him during his time in Iraq that he will come back and want to get back involved in politics. Running as a Democrat, a party that is just as disorganized as the Republicans, he has had to basically do it on his own, and he has run as far as I can see a very good and strong campaign. Baxley will win by 53%, however.
County Commission Dist. 2. Jim Payton has made an excellent commissioner, ever though I disagree with him on some issues (he can’t be right all the time!). He studies the issues, he makes himself more available than most commissioners I have seen through the years. Darlene Weesner is the energizer bunny -- she just keeps running. She had toned down her rhetoric considerably this time, and has sounded more like a reasonable candidate than in the past. Jim should win by 60 percent, but there are issues that make that difficult. The growth issue is one where many people, most of residents who have caused the issue by moving here in the last few years, now want to shut the door and stop growth. . Commissioners have been right in the way they have handled most of this issue, and the real problem with growth usually rests with the cities, where Ocala has annexed property that the county turned down and then approved the new growth. Dunnellon is doing the same, but the commission gets the blame for growth. My solution to this race is re-elect Jim and keep Darlene bugging him about her issues. We get the business experience and ability, but keep the Darlene issues present for them to solve. Payton closer than it should be at 52%.
County Commissioner District 4. The anti Harris people lay the blame for everything that has been “bad” in their eyes at Randy Harris feet. Some of it is deserved. On the book issue: I wanted to keep the Library Board. I do not want some of the crap that is in the library there. I do not want the policies of the American Library Assn. Neither do I want Bobby D approving any books unless I get to approve some too. I do not want the Harris haters to run the library either.
On Growth: I hate the fact that Harris led the fight to sell the fair grounds. It was a stupid mistake, the worst mistake the county has made in the 48 years I have been here. But, he was right in leading the fight to block Site R. He was right in leading the fight with Payton on buying the Avatar property. He was right on the Seldon Property. He has been right on many issues, most of them in fact. We were wrong in my view to pay off 3% bonds, but rather should have been borrowing more at 3% to build some of the roads we are now asking to build.
I was looking for Barbara Fitos, who I do not “know” personally, but who I had hoped would give me some good reason -- any real reason -- to vote FOR her. I was very disappointed that she failed that test completely. Her mailer was an anti Harris piece that complained but did not answer any of her own complaints. I am well aware of the Harris negatives, some of which I hold. I choose to look forward to another four years of Randy Harris keeping an eye on spending, and while I have issues, I will vote FOR him, not against Fitos. Harris in a squeaker again, 50.15%.
School Board: Crawford and I have had arguments during his tenure, especially over impact fees. The school board needs leadership, and while Romanski has visions on what schools should be and dreams of what might be, she has not convinced me at all. Crawford 56%.
Sales Tax: We need to solve traffic problems. To keep from having them increase, we could shut the door and keep any more people out. That can not happen. The failure of the county to do an even half way job of promoting its own idea, coupled with the falsehoods that the developers committee and chamber put out in their advertising has driven me away from the sales tax. There are other solutions, and they could be in place shortly. This has become a tax I don’t like, but I do not know how you feel. I think I know, and I think it will end up about 53% against the tax.
Truth is, none of us, including the pollsters, know much of anything about how the result will look. One thing for sure, unless you vote, you shouldn’t complain. And one more thing . . . either way, the Harris haters will be out in full bloom. The fact that somebody like me puts down thoughts does not make them expert if they are right, or stupid if they are wrong. It just means we haven't got enough sense to keep our fingers off a key board.
It’s been fun. God Bless America and Marion County! Be sure to vote, and if from the north where the real election fraud occurs, remember you can only vote once in Florida. (Ah, come on, I was only kidding . . .)
--pwf
I neglected two races:
State Senate: Either of these two guys will have to go a long way to be as good as Rod Smith was. Jennings started a nasty campaign and Olerich met him and went further digging into Jennings' background. The district is heavily Democratic. Jennings isn't up to the challange as far as leadership and service goes. Conventional wisdom says Jennings by five. I'll go against that and say common sense will prevail and take the Sheriff at 51%.
State Rep. -- If Common sense prevailed, Cretul would win by 100% to ZERO! This should not even be a contest. How can you say anything about a person who has no record, and obviously has a problem holding a job. Let me ask the question no one else would ask: How is it this guy is qualified to serve in the legislature and he couldn't even get offered a contract as a permanent teacher at Dunnellon High????
Larry Cretul is heads and shoulders over Thurman, and frankly would be over his mother. Larry has an excellent record as a commissioner, and has sur[prised even his close friends with his service and leadership in the House. I would bet that if his mother was still in the legislature, she would have voted pretty close to Cretul's record.
If common sense prevails, it will be Cretul at 60%. It won't prevail that good, so I will say Cretul 54%. --pwf
Thanks Paul you saved me a bunch of time looking for the right words and explanations. I'm lazy this week.
The only race I disagree on is Randy Harris. I have had ambiguous feeling about this mans politics since I've been here. I have consitently looked for a few solid (and compeling reasons)to back him. I have not. I have found an indiviudual who displays contempt for anyone who challenges him.
"That" is not my idea of an elected official. Randy may pull this off but his influence in this community will continue to diminish.
It certainly has in my opinion.
This will be the last campaign Mr. Harris ever wins.
It will be interesting to see how pwf’s predictions pan out compared to his 2000 prediction that Bob Crawford would defeat Andy Kesselring because the county wouldn’t elect a member of the Ocala City Council to the county commission, his 2004 prediction that George W. would do worse in Marion County in 2004 than in 2000 and that Democrat Mike Sizemore would be elected to the county commission, and his more recent gem that the Land/Ritterhoff-Williams race would be a squeaker.
Noticeably, we did not get a Commissioner Crawford in 2000, George W. did 4.6 percentage points better in Marion County in 2004 than in 2000, Charlie Stone and his Gainesville consultant handed pwf’s client Sizemore the worst defeat for a Democratic county commission candidate in years, and Ritterhoff-Williams blew out Landt.
Shouldn’t be hard to improve on these predictions.
Here's a prediction for the election today:
In Marion County, Randy Harris will significantly underperform the Republican gubernatorial candidate just like he has every other time he has run for re-election.
Aw c'mon Brian that's a no brainer! Give us something with pizazz!!
We have only two entrants to our Pick the Winners Contest: PWF and Bobby D.
Anyone else out there who wants to enter, we will give you until 3:00 PM to submit your picks. After that the Polls close!
Count me in. These are a little tighter than I originally posted but this is my final guess.
Crist 52.0
Davis 47.0
Other 1.0
Payton 51.0
Weesener 49.0
Fitos 50.1
Harris 49.9
Walker 50.1
Baxley 49.9
Cretul 51.0
Thurman 49.0
Crawford 50.1
Romanski 49.9
Road Tax Against 52.0
Road Tax For 48.0
Stearn 51.00
Bruderly 49.0
Oops...left this one out:
Oelrich 50.1
Jennings 49.9
Interesting that someone has a record of my "predictions" in 2000 since there was no blog to post them on. Being a fan of George W, I seriously doubt that I ever made such a comment because I strongly supported the President then and now. As for Sizemore, again you are wrong. He had a chance, but the stars were not in line. But I never made such a prediction. I knew it was an uphill fight.
And I was not alone in think gem that the Land/Ritterhoff-Williams race would be a squeaker.
It is always easy to sit around an collect data to be used in three or four years. I have a life, however, and don't choose to use it the way you do. --pwf
Que sera' sera'
Hey blogmaster here's an idea...lets get an early start on the BIG 2008 elections. How about a thread for our local races and who may run?
We will work that into a "results analysis" thread as a post script to tonight's election results.
give it a break. we dont ned two years of self promo from any of you guys.
It's awfully quiet in here.
wonder what's going through Harris' head right now
"Can anyone tell me what I ever done wrong for the County? Ha, at least I now can fully run the Reps MY way!"
James Walker performed at the same level as Macky Thurman. Not bad being outspent 10:1, and his first race. Maybe the state Dems will take a second look at HD24 in 2008 - when Mr. Baxley can't run again.
Or, I need my Mommy. Oh, no. I lost to a Woman! No, it's a dream. I am a man. Men do not lose to any woman. No, No No...
I can't believe how low the turnout was. Barely 50%. That's pathetic. We get the government we deserve.
You do have a right to complain now...
It's probably true that the weather kept many who did not early vote or request an absentee ballot from voting (it has been a long time since we have had hard rain). However, there are those who think America haves a spoiled citizenry.
Tho truly, there are those who chose not to be involved in politics for one reason or another (maybe they only vote every 4 years, are not inspired by the candidates or issues, or just plain okay with how the majority decides). Also, didn't someone actually have to seek out information if they were not a long-term resident?
Truthfully, I go out of my way to avoid late cycle political advertising, and have had my TV off ever since the World Series ended.
Is it not the goal of negative campaigning to create empathy and reduce voter turn out at the polls by increasing the dislike of voting and candidates?
In closing, electoral laws that are restrictive also plays a part on reducing voting (at least one state allow same day registration and voting, etc.). Is not Florida one of the few states that even has early voting?
-end-
Well, let me get things started before the haters come on board. I went to bed at a decent hour, since I have a life other than blogging.
No big surprises to me, even though I predicted a Harris win, but very narrow. Actually, the percentage was close, just reversed. I am not surprised that Harris lost. Randy has never opearted as a politician. He has always spoken his mind, most of the times to his detriment politically. But he is a hard worker and he will survive and nicely. Frankly, I suspect he is relieved. Maybe he can spend more time working to get his health improved, and spend more time with his family. I pray he will.
Payton won by about what I felt, and we have his business expertise and focus for four more years, and we still have Darlene to continue to push her agenda.
I was surprised by the Crawford schopol board margin. I guarantee most of the people who voted Romanski's name had not a clue who she was since she did not spend any money, and her presentations to the few people who attended the functions probably cost her votes.
There is no way for Crawford to take this except almost a majority voted against him. But he won, and I hope he will not get his jaw bent out of shape, and will be thankful for a third term and work to solve our school problems.
Worst performance in an interview last night: Macky Thurman in his bitter "I won't call Cretul" to concede statement.
When Thurman lost Alachua County with all the Democrats up there, it should tell him (and his mother) that he is not a viable candidate. I hope she was embarrassed by his pitiful campaign and interview performance.
Congratulations to my friend Larry Cretul. Just remember what got you to the prom -- lots and lots and lots of hard work, courtesy to all your district, lots of hard work, straight answers, and, oh yes, that beautiful lady by your side. She is your best asset!
Road tax: So the false advertising of the Chamber and those citizens committees got their comeupance and boy howdy! I had no doubt the tax would fail, but I was especially pleased at how smart the voters were to thrash the advertising from another of those fancy consultants who know nothing about politics, and reject the threats about property taxes and chaos that they claimed will come.
Prediction: The county Commission will spend a few months digesting this, talk to their staff, move to tighten up the processs, and we will survive.
And, even though the sales tax lost there will be NO increase in property taxes. Those guys must have thought elected officials were absolutely stupid to suggest they would impose a property tax after voters rejected a sales tax. DUH!!!
Traffic frustration? Yeah, but remember most of those traffic problems were caused by you and you and you moving here and you are the same people, along with me, who voted against the tax. Difference is I have been here almost 50 years and most of you want to stop growth now that you are here.
And it is a great day! --pwf
Re; Thurman - why would anyone have voted for him? His mother never did anything but collect her paycheck while in office and what has he ever done? Volunteering for sports related activities qualifies you for office?
Pwf said:
“Interesting that someone has a record of my "predictions" in 2000 since there was no blog to post them on.”
Yes, of course, pwf wants to forget that, in a 2000 telephone conversation with me, he told me Andy Kesselring would not be elected to the county commission because he had served on the Ocala City Council and that pwf and everybody he knew were going to vote for Bob Crawford for the county commission, not Kesselring. Of course, now Kesselring has the power pwf habitually sucks up to and money to spend at the printing business so the forecast and Crawford vote have conveniently been “forgotten.”
Everybody stay tuned for installments of Ferguson’s Fables in future years. Before it’s over, he’ll be telling everyone he ran Fitos’ campaign even though she didn’t even talk to him about her candidacy and he had nothing to do with her campaign other than the help he tried to give her opponent on this blog, and he’ll be telling everyone he predicted a win for her but no one would listen to him.
The blog master should issue wind warnings before pwf posts.
Pwf said:
“Randy has never operated as a politician.”
Tee-hee.
During his 12 unfortunate years on the county commission, Harris demagogued, for political purposes, everything from exclusion of the Forest High School ROTC unit from the annual Christmas parade to protection of children at the public library even though he never produced any real evidence of a problem at the library in terms of parental complaints arising from actual usage of the library.
The guy spent 12 years living for the next opportunity to benefit politically at somebody else’s expense.
pwf said:
“No big surprises to me, even though I predicted a Harris win, but very narrow. Actually, the percentage was close, just reversed. I am not surprised that Harris lost.”
Ooooh! Somebody is doing some fast backpedaling! Looks like somebody missed the biggest political call in county politics in decades and can’t admit it. Big narcissistic ego, just like Harris.
Mr. Creekbaum,
Don't discount Mr. Harris too fast. He will be back and even stronger than you have ever seen him. Your problems are just beginning young man. Take a short break and then retool your arsenal!
"Ooooh! Somebody is doing some fast backpedaling! Looks like somebody missed the biggest political call in county politics in decades and can’t admit it. Big narcissistic ego, just like Harris."
No backpeddling at all. Everyone with a lick of sense knew it would be close. And talk about ego . . . the mirror is the best place to look. Enjoy it while you can. You finally got one right.--pwf
bc -- get a life. one win in 12 years. big whoppin' deal.
pwf said:
You finally got one right.--pwf
I'm not sure what "right" means. I supported Fitos, who I thought would make the best commissioner, and I wouldn't have supported her as I did if I thought she had no chance of winning, but if you had asked me the morning of the election who I thought more likely to win, I would have said "Harris."
Anonymous said…
“Mr. Creekbaum,
Don't discount Mr. Harris too fast. He will be back and even stronger than you have ever seen him. Your problems are just beginning young man. Take a short break and then retool your arsenal!”
This falls into the category of things that are possible but the high confidence is unfounded. The loss of his county commission seat puts a serious crimp in Harris’ plan to succeed Stearns. What a fundraising vehicle he would have had. Open a Congressional campaign account and watch the developers with county commission business line up to contribute. Not going to happen now. And how seriously can you be taken for a multi-county race when you can’t even win your home county in a county commission race?
Anyone would be a fool to believe that a man of Harris' age can’t come back, but his problems may just be starting. The myth of his invincibility has been shattered and more nails may go into his coffin.
You can take it to the bank, Harris will be back and stronger than ever. It may not be a Congressional run, but something that will make Creekbaum very nervous. Even more unsettled and paranoid about Harris than he curently is.
Sorry, but I'm not letting Harris move into my house :-)
Harris' ambition for a long time has been to get into Congress. His step-mother told a relative of mine back in the late '90's. That's why his radio show is mostly about national issues. For the forseeable future, the big dream looks like nothing more than a dream.
If anyone would like to be specific, I'm listening. Otherwise, this stuff just sounds like sour grapes and wishful thinking.
I do know that the best way for a county commissioner to get fired by the voters would be to try to replace Pat Howard with Harris. It would probably be the easiest way for the Democrats to get another county commission seat or two.
Mr. Political Expert Creekbaum writes:
"I do know that the best way for a county commissioner to get fired by the voters would be to try to replace Pat Howard with Harris."
Perhaps and perhaps not. Who knows, most certainly not you or me.
harris as county admin. interesting thought. he sure knows where all the dead wood is. might even be better than what we have in the job. george albright moved from politician to tax collector and is doing an outstanidng job. why not also harris.
Harris wouldn’t like reporting to five county commissioners. I would think he would be happier exercising his fascist tendencies in law enforcement (not that it would make for good law enforcement, but he would probably enjoy twisting the law to fit his twisted agenda). Maybe Dean moves on to run for Congress and Harris goes for sheriff. He’s never lost a Republican primary, the Democrats would have difficulty coming up with another Dean to take him on, and even if they could find another Dean that person wouldn’t be the incumbent.
Actually, was not Harris trying to get Florida to fashion a State Senate Seat for Marion County so he could run for it (at least that is what I remember in his campaign literature).
Anyway, it is my experience that long-term politicians, after leaving office willingly or not, usually get payed back with some appointed job in government (with being in office so long, they are usually 'owed' something, or know enough to keep out of the private sector)...
Unless,maybe being a lobbyist is in his future?
What specific talents or skills does Harris have, or what things has he learned, while being in his elected position? Was there a specific focus or issue where Harris was not fiscally or personally wrong on?
I am unsure...
One of Harris' key skills is an ability to "thump" educated idiots like Brian Creekbaum. Harris still has a decided advantage in that category, current election considered.
I agree Harris is out for Stearns position. The R candidates are: Albright, Baxley, Cretul, and Jennifer Caroll. The Ds: Rod Smith and Sheriff Dean.
anonymous said:
One of Harris' key skills is an ability to "thump" educated idiots like Brian Creekbaum. Harris still has a decided advantage in that category, current election considered.
I've seen this sort of claim several times on the blog. Here, as always, it is not accompanied by any factual support.
Who do people think will run for the Baxley position in two years since he will be termed out?
Maybe Harris will put training wheels on his Congressional ambitions and go for the job Baxley is vacating.
I've always heard Harris can't afford to accept the puny salary, but maybe he's made enough off the Fairgrounds that the state legislature is affordable for him now.
Or what about the state house seat for District 21, the district in which he currently resides?
You can take it to the bank, Randy WILL NOT get involved in any State campaign. He will come back strong at the local level. As I've said, you are going to be surprised Mr. Creekbaum.
There will be a long list of Republicans wanting to replace Baxley. The anointed one, by Baxley, is probably Kurt Kelly. Also, in the running will be Andy Kesselring and Kent Guinn. Sue Mosley ( I hope) might even enter the picture. On the D side, only James Walker and he will be the favorite.
James Walker will only be able to run if the war in Iraq ends. He won't be back until the end of 2008, hopefully safe and sound.
A good reason to end the war. Let's get him back here.
Joe Pickens, District #21 does term out in 2008. He is a Republican, so could be possible for Randy. However, Marion is not a major piece of that District and Harris is not going to have the name recognition that it would take in the major parts of the District. Try another option.
SEX CHANGE RANDY???
Possibly, Harris will start hormone therapy, and make the sex switch within the next two years. She will explain her past male dominance as being uncomfortable being a female trapped in the anatomical body of an aging and bland and unbalanced male.
Randi will join, and become the leader of the Marion County NOW.
Later, she becomes the CEO of Equity Decisions, Inc., as she now fully understands when to save, when to invest, and when to borrow.
Sadly, even though Randi is the happiest she has ever been, she still has the feeling of being unfulfilled. Something truly has been missing from her life...
Yes, of course, Randi will run again: as a "new century" modern-age woman of the future!
Randi will run in her own created political party, and make herstory!
In an electoral surprise, Randi defeats both major-party candidates.
Later, it was explained, that Randi gains enough votes from those with newfound respect, the diversity, the equal rights vote, and as well as a few now mesmerized by her beautiful singing voice--but actually, it was the northerners who flew south from the big cities, that lifted Randi to a high-heeled pantie hose thin margin of victory.
It was astonishing, yet true what the bloggers had joked: Harris would do anything to get his seat back...
Being the future was Now, Randi felt it was still her continued responsibility to teach people what was right and what was wrong, but the speeches were now more enlightened and different.
Also, now, Randi had so much more to share with people, and this time she actually had something the people wanted to hear and appreciate (the hatred of being an ineffective and patronizing male, was a thingy of the past).
------ OR???
WILL RANDY JOIN WITH THE DONKEY???
Randy finds his true self while meditating to the sound of his own recorded voice. He has been betrayed by his own party, and now he has no one to turn to...he knows he always felt something missing in his life, and he was going to do anything to become a true and complete male.
After around a year of eating tofu, abstaining from power-hungry thoughts, and giving back all he had obtained because of privilege and intimidation, that he is visited by something new and different:
Randy is distracted from his meditation, late one night, by a strange and warming light.
Oddly, a donkey comes out of the enlightenment, and reaches out to Randy. Was this the hope and meaning that Randy was seeking?
Initially, and for the longest time, the ass just laughs hard at Randy. Tears begin swelling up in Randy's eyes, as if all his efforts still mattered nothing for him.
Randy starts to wonder about why he is being tortured so, "was this the true answer to his actions?"
Randy does not understand what this is all to mean? Randy falls to his knees, and pleads with the ass to explain what the meaning of life was (he was looking to the ass for forgiveness and understanding on how unforgiving Randy's life had become).
As if because of pity of Randy's bleak existence, the Donkey stops laughing, and starts looking deep into Randy's eyes, as if the ass was determining if Randy was worthy of the knowledge.
In a serious tone, and loudly, the ass starts flapping to Randy, repeating over and over and over again, "build it from the bottom up, and they will come to you."
After many minutes of Randy in deep introspection, and not knowing what he is to do or say, the thoughts of his future now come to him as clear as the sunrise on a cloudless day!
Randy now finally knows what to do to bring him the joy he had been missing and seeking...
Randy reaches out to thank the donkey, and bends to give the ass a long and loving kiss.
Only hours later, on that very same and new day, Randy has sold all his lots, business, and home.
People thought Randy was crazy before, and these actions, as was reported in the paper, only confirmed their beliefs.
What the bloggers had not known, was that Randy had found a few acres of rural land for what would remain his ongoing love, and the reason of his weird disappearance from local politics.
Now, it's the chickens, roosters, cows, horses, emus, goats and yes an ass, remain in awe of Randy's flapdoodles, as he spouts politics to them every single day (of course, between the breaks of attending to his crops).
Randy is truly not the only one now in love with his voice, and no longer has to talk louder and longer to be understood.
Moreover, Randy never ever again has to stop people or voters from telling him he is wrong!
Randy no longer needs to wag his finger when he lectures or campaigns--a complete smile now crosses his face as he remembers his past actions--memories triggered now by the watching of the wagging of the ass' tail.
Hours on end, the animals stand or sit quietly, as Randy explains what is wrong with his World.
Randy is very happy now, and he has only the ass to thank for his utopia.
Continuing now and forever, Randy begins and ends each day by bending and lovingly kiss the ass.
Truly, it was the donkey, who showed Randy the true meaning and purpose of his life: To nurture, respect and to express true love of other's differences.
Randy's World needed to be much smaller and much simpler for Randy to be able to control everything.
Before, Randy was like a cold frustrated ass, where the sun had never shined. Now, the sun shines on Randy and the ass every single day of their remaining uneventful lives.
The end. Literally.
---
I really doubt the post about Harris came from B Creeekbaum. It's much too creative. Sounds much more like an Ocalaslim creation to me.
I want to inform some of you bloggers about my recovery from a condition that seems to be afflicting several of you. I have recently completed therapy for a condition called PFD, Politician Focused Disorder. I note the Randy Harris fixation on the blog postings. I had a similar problem for many years. However, thanks to the help of a world renowned therapist, Dr. Remy Plussit, I’m now in remission. I would suggest that those of you who are so personally preoccupied with Mr. Harris might contact Dr. Plussit and consider using him for therapy. He has an office in Tupelo, Mississippi and is very reasonable at $4.50 an hour. He accepts Medicare/Medicaid and any insurance plans. He can do all sessions via internet chat room or by telephone. His website is www.pfdgone.com or call him at 1-800-666-6666. I’m feeling so much better now that Dr. Plussit has helped rid me of my PFD affliction in just three easy sessions. Perhaps you will also.
I read the local blogs in search of windbags to taunt. Don't have enough time to type any stories about out of work politicians. It is creative though, I like creativity.
PFD No More,
Enjoyed the lunch time humor!
This is the only way I thought I could reach people quickly.
No one at the newspaper would print a warning without any proof.
My story was treated as fiction, but you should try to believe me!
Anyone, and Everyone: no matter if your a Democrat or Republican, a Man or Woman, Caucasion or Latino, Young or Old, WHATEVER!!!
The past 20+ hours have been truly bizarre, and scary for me.
I never thought they'd let me go!
A conspiracy-theorist, I was not. Never, not me. I was someone who always needed to see the proof:
Show me the policy, let me talk to the boss, I want to see the facts, or even, let me see the light and hear the voice.
I was a naysayer, needing to see everything in writing, or with my own eyes, that there I was.
Yes, was.
Until...
My postings, and they knew how to find me.
Please, Please, heed my warning!
There is a list! They have developed a list!
I was picked up half way through my evening walk yesterday. Right before the sun set, and those blasted mosquitoes...
It was like they already knew everything about me!!!
They knew I wrote the stories, and were not at all amused.
"Sarcasm," I said. It was only a memorial to a retiring and patronizing politician....it was if nothing I said mattered!
You know who I am talking about.
I was strongly warned not to type his name again. Not even his intials!
But, I needed to warn you!
Because, I feel I know you. I have read your posts, and in the short time of following this blog, I really do care about you all!
Okay, for my safety, I have to get going now.
However, they are not happy he lost. You know who.
They made a list. This list is long! They are talking to anyone they feel have ever worked against him. They blame all these people on why he lost. They are not happy!!!
I was blindfolded, so I have no idea who these people are, or why they are specifically angry???
I told them I was not going to tell anyone, anything!
Now,
I do not know what they will do if they find me again.
I did this for all of you!!!
Remember this, if you don't hear from me again!!!
I can't tell you where I will be heading, or hiding, but I will check back in a day or two to let you know I am okay.
Please be safe.
Watch your back! Make sure you are never alone!!!
If anyone knows why they are angry, let us know. Maybe I won't have to keep running...this can all stop!
We can stop things, before things get violent, or people start to go missing, or even worse!!!
It is important you try to believe me!
Richard Valley.
11-14-2006
-end post-
Richard,
I'm really worried. I think "they" may have captured Brian! We haven't heard from him in awhile. Hope "they" didn't get him too.
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
I’ve openly opposed Harris for eight years without physical threat or incident, but he’s a cult figure with some followers who are unstable and dangerous. I enjoyed the satirical story but people shouldn’t joke about anybody being picked up, especially about anyone posting to the blog with their real name.
Breathe easier, my friends. We are now truly safe!
The list, and the angry followers who created it, are no more!
You will have to try your best to believe me, as this story will forever remain out of the newspapers.
Even tho our country's finest and secret of services became involved, towards the end, you will not locate any report written, and you will only receive a baffled look from any officer you question.
A new day is upon us! You have no more reason to fear!
No more intimidation, hatred, or chance of reprisal from those bothered by him losing the election. You know who...
I guess I am used to not mentioning his name, or its name?
I am still unsure of all the details of what he had become.
It's still mind-boggling odd on how he was able to function in public for all these many years.
Because, he was without a heart.
Literally, he had nothing to keep the blood regularly pumping to his organs, or even his brain.
I'm sorry, I cannot explain how they did it.
They, were an elite collection of focused, angry and bitter white men: the financiers, the scientists, and even the machinists, who extended his existence.
It was the goal of the cultists to control local politics.
What the services of secret said, was that this partisan extremist group had kept a few other officials functioning, beyond what was considered appropriate and righteous, or even fair and balanced.
Probably, I already have started to tell you too much...
I was asked to wait a few days for the services people to cover and tie up any loose ends, before they move on to, another "situation," as they would put it.
Our past, is now only a misread mistake from county voters, which was corrected this election cycle.
Thanks again to those distraught, who did notice, and took the time to educate that something was truly flawed.
Happily, we move forward into a different future, and positive change will officially and soon be upon us.
Wowwows!
However, initially, I had a lot of doubt that I would make it to the very end, or to the new beginning, depending on how you look at it.
It had started with those abnormal occurrences, from all the supposed proper and enlightened white men.
These men lost direction, as they ignored previous battles in history--that prior men who became too high on power and greed, always slip, fall, and bottom out in whatever bloody remains.
Somehow, I got mixed up with this active assault on civil-society, with no intention of doing so, and in so short a time.
Even tho at most times, and for days, as everything was looking forever hopeless, I never lost faith.
If you remember, I had to take flight, as I did not know what they would do to me, when they found out I had sent out a "warning" post.
Within an hour of leaving home, on foot, I could hear a lot of activity in the direction from where I had come.
I guess it doesn't matter now if you know where I went, which was deep into the forest.
At sunset that first evening, I realized something I had not thought of before:
Even as I am an aware and considerate dude, I still understood that I would need help, as I could not conquer this established and confident atrocity by myself.
I originally thought I could just find a computer, or sneak back home, and call into action other concerned bloggers.
However, I did not want to take the chance of being found, and really didn't know any of you enough, to truly trust you at the point when a critical decision had to be made.
I had no special powers, even though I have been told I am creative, a good listener, and a good kisser. I could not think of how these skills could help me in a situation where at least a half-dozen men were involved, as I remembered around that many voices when I was blindfolded.
What I needed was a higher power--like someone with "super powers" to help solve our problem of the list, and the men it represented.
I almost gave up all hope, as I suffered through two very cold nights, and almost an entire day of drenching rain.
I had tried everything I could think of to summon a super hero:
From shining a light into the night sky, making wishes on the first and subsequent stars, pretending I was in need of assistance as if I did not know how to swim, and to calling loudly all their names.
I even tried talking with the plants and trees, and to the elements, to no avail.
Failure was in site, and then, he found me.
At the time, I was not even looking!
Actually, I had removed my wet clothes for drying, after the sun burned away the front that had brought the wind and heavy rain.
I was lying on my stomach, sunning my bare back and bottom, when he appeared, as if he dropped from the sky.
He was an Angel, my "guardian" Angel.
I couldn't stop kissing him, as I was so thankful he found me.
I knew then, that everything was going to get better. No one can be harmed, when their protector comes from above.
It just so happened that my Angel was in the area, as he had spent some time visiting with Travolta.
He sure was the super man that I was seeking, as he was completely willing to demonstrate his irresistible powers.
From that point forward, my life was never going to be the same...
Obviously, with me writing this, you know everything happened as envisioned, and the list was destroyed.
At this point, you bloggers probably have some questions, and may be a little confused?
Soon, my friends, I can fill in the gaps, and explain how it all ended.
However, you know I am restricted for a few days to give you all the details in the final installment of events.
Happily, this gives me some intermission time to venture into a strengthened, and already established intimacy with my Angel.
Richard Valley
11-18-2006
-end of post-
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