Bottom Up Politics

Yup I am going to Washington DC.   For a man of my means this is awesome.

I am going to be a part of the “Defending the American Dream Summit”
http://defendingthedream.org/beta/  How did I get so lucky?

Through going to some events sponsored and attended by Scott Hagerstrom of Americans for Prosperity, I was lucky enough to get to know him somewhat.  When I called the contact # for the “Defending the American Dream Summit” I got hold of him and the ball started rolling.  He put me in touch with Allen Lowe and then I found Jake Danielson.

The long and the short of it is that they put me on bloggers row. (no admission charge).  Later they were trying to set up a couple of busses from Mi. to provide transportation and two nights of hotel rooms but the cost was $149.  By the time I was done digging into this some generous bennefactor had volunteered to pay for the two busses and the rooms. —Yup I was slipped in.  (no bus fare and no room cost.) 

Then I realized I didn’t have a laptop and I would look rather funny toting around my desktop. lol.  I looked and the cheapest ones were $300 and up.  But just as I was giveing up a friend and fellow conservative activist and blogger said he had an older one that worked fine and I could use it.  ( no new equipment cost.  Just have to learn how to use the laptop. They are touchy little devils).

All I have to do to make this work is drive to Kalamazoo and board a bus. Bring $50-100 or what I can scrape up and I’ll have a Conservative intensive weekend seeing old idols (Newt) and new ones (Pence + DeMint).  Along with that we’ll meet with the Republican Congressional Delegation, See the capitol, and all the museums, go to a Reagan Dinner memorial, attend breakout sessions on blogging and activism. 

I’m geeked and ready to go.  The bus will take 12 hours and 12 hours coming back, but once that is done the rest should be great.

Guest Blogger Wanted

I am sorry I’ll be missing 2 parades in Freemont and Mears, plus the Newaygo County Executive Committee Meeting along with the Oceana Brat Fry. I will also miss Jane Drake’s “Campaign Kickoff”.

I would like to make a plea for anyone attending any of these events to take some pictures and make some short notes and email them to me and I will gladly put them up on this site.

Bob Carr
Glhotdogs@verizon.net
231-728-3455

See Calendar Button for the events I need help with.
http://bottomuppolitics.com/calendar_2.html

I’ll be gone through Sunday afternoon Oct.4^th.  I would love to have any help I can.  Become a guest blogger in my absence.  I would for the long haul like to find a guest blogger from each of the “Five Counties” to post once a month or so.  This could be your start. 

Regards, Live Dangerously Be A Conservative

Do you want to help be a part of swinging the tide from blue to Red in Michigan?   Here is something you can do from your home that could make a big difference in the balance of power in the State Senate.

Mike Nofs (R) is running in a special election this November (just a month away) against Marty Griffin (D) for the 19th State Senate seat in Jackson.  This election is huge as far a momentum for the 2010 election next year and the current balance of power in the Senate this year. 

This is a race crucial to both parties and they are both throwing what they have into it.  The race is neck and neck.  Big Democrat money is pouring in.  But the State Republican Party has stepped up and is gathering all the volunteers they can get for a door to door blitz.

Individuals across the state are doing the same.  Jon Koens for example has driven all the way there now a few times to spend an afternoon knocking on doors.  I’ve agreed to join Goeff Hansen and Darwin Boohr on Oct 5th to do the same.  I hope to spend a weekend later this month on a youth blitz doing the same.  This is real grassroots involvement.  What follows next is something you can do without leaving your home.  Or you could have fun with it and have friends over to have a phone party.

This alert is about the State Party setting up phone banks to locate specific absentee ballot voters to ensure they vote.  Our area’a State Deputy Chair Barb VanderVeen has contacted all the “Five County’ chairs and the others in her territory about the plan.

The plan is for the County Chairs to get as many volunteers as possible to make phone calls from their homes at their leisure.  Barb will be furnishing the call lists and the “bubble sheets”. 

The process is simple.  You call a name on the list then check the circle “bubble” whether they are home or not then if they are you continue and ask them a couple of quick “scripted” questions, and fill in the circle according to how they answer.

After that just turn them into your County Chairs.

All you have to do is call your County Chair and they will set it up for you.  If there are problems or questions Barb VanderVeen said to feel free to call her at.

Barb Vander Veen
Deputy Chair
MiGOP
Western/Southern Region
616-813-8584

We can make a difference from the “Bottom Up”

Regards, Live Dangerously Be A Conservative

Bob Carr
231-728-3455

Ps.  I’ll  be making calls.  Pat Uriarte, Muskegon’s “volunteer” chair called me and asked.  I said yes.  Let’s help Barb out and our Party.

To the Purpose 

Why am I building this site?  People often ask me. —- They think I’m nuts, or slightly deranged and definitely at least eccentric.  They are probably right, so if you’re reading still let me let you in on the real reason. 

I’m angry we lost the last election on the County level in Muskegon.  I’m angry that I invested a year of my life for naught.  That is the personal reason – pure and simple revenge.  The Republicans fielded a highly qualified slate of candidates.  They all lost.  Some were by any measure other than party label; heads and shoulders above the competition.  They lost. 

I feel sorry for them.  The Drain Commission race was a perfect example of the above. 

Why did they lose?  We all know the reason and (they) are different.  The Historic nature of the first black person running for President was the reason.  Well I ask what about the other 12,347 other candidates throughout the nation where race or history had nothing to do with it? 

Yup – there is a herd mentality at work here whether we like to admit it or not.  Something happens and word of mouth whether right or wrong gets the message spread fast and the herd changes direction.  This has happened since the Flintstones, when  Barney talked Fred into running for office. 

What has changed is the speed at which the word of mouth can be spread.  The more speed the less time for reflection.  We have seen that tactic taken into the legislative ring with the stimulus bill sailing through congress with nary a word read. 

Back to this site.  I started blogging, then later I built this site to exact revenge.  The only way to sway the herd I felt was to create a Buzz.  The buzz is to politics what a watering hole is to the heard.  It is something that will slow the herd down enough to THINK before they charge off into another direction. 

On the national scale the Drill Here, the Tea Parties and the Townhalls are those watering holes, the herd has slowed and is drinking (thinking) again.  What is better still over last election, we are starting to give the herd a viable and sharp contrast to pick from and think about.  Last election we didn’t.  What this web site is about is trying to get that Buzz down to the local level.  I would love to be a part of helping the five counties through sharing ideas to competing with those ideas to turn the volume up on the Buzz. 

It is about getting the Buzz going strong at the local level.  In the Bottom Up Politics type of way. 

We not only need the Buzz but a unified message followed by actions that help promote the message and keep the Buzz a buzzing. 

I would love to see different things happening all the time for the general public to join in and learn about being a Republican.  The stuff I’ve posted about before such as the Adopt a Highway or Adopt a Precinct or the Flag Give Away at the county fairs.  Last year a friend started in Muskegon a Salvation Army Bell ringing thing at Christmas.  The list could be endless.  We already have Lincoln and Reagan Days, and Picnics are getting some play. 

What about Candidate forums, Townhalls, Food Trucks, blood drives or maybe softball games???? Now at bat for Muskegon David Farhat.  Here comes the pitch from Lake’s Joan Runnels.  He swings, it’s a grounder to third base and Oceana’s Juanita scoops it up and rifles it to — well you get the picture. Lol.  A summer picnic with softball, on a rotating basis just might wake some people up, maybe some younger ones if we let it. 

But I digress. 

Any Ideas I have I will push on my County party for what its worth and share them here.  If you have any ideas and want to share them let me know and we’ll put them out there.  Tomorrow I’ll talk of a way that State Vice Chair Barb Vanderveen is pushing.  Also an explanation of where I’ll be from 10/1-10/4.  Also I’ll put out a plea, for what wait and see.

Regards, Live Dangerously Be A Conservative

Went To a Garden Party

I went to a garden party last night put on by the gardeners of Love Community Garden and the crew from Love Fellowship Baptist Church. Pastor Jonathan Phillips had the honor of grilling the hamburgers and hotdogs. Morning Bear the garden organizer along with people from the church helped set up the tent and tables. (and no Hughes wasn’t in the corner wearing Dylan Shoes)

This was a lower key affair from the earlier parties, I would guess 20-30 people came and enjoyed the day.

Below is a pic. of our new sign I just put up the night before.

One of the major new additions to the garden was our rain water collection system.
The pic. below shows the 55 gallon drums laying down together and dug into the hill. From them runs a buried flex tube snaking up the hill to the church connecting to the new gutter system on the church.

This gutter system will serve two purposes once completed. First it will of course collect the rain water to help us water the garden and second it will draw water away from the foundation of the church and hopefully help the water seepage problem in the Church’s basement.

Paul engineered the barrel collection system and Mike Johnson brought in a backhoe to dig the trench from the church down the hill to the barrels. CAPEK workers are putting up the gutter and fixing the eaves plus a lot of the digging and general clean up.

A new family moved in the precinct and we snagged them as they were walking by. They stayed and enjoyed the meal and their new neighbors.

There was Love and Community last night in the garden in the neighborhood.

Regards, Live Dangerously Be A Conservative

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

A Beautiful day in Michigan for “Politickin” 

Woke up Saturday morning and the temp outside was in the low 50s, it was cold out.  But this is Michigan and its weather changes as fast as (I hope) does its politics.  Today would turn out to be a day with connections to the “Five Counties” as well as beyond and into state leadership. 

But how could I know that?  As I tried to wake up I fixed some coffee, hit the shower and took off to Margaret Drake Elliot park by the SS Silversides at the Muskegon Channel to volunteer for the Muskegon County Alzheimer’s Walk.  I was there to volunteer along with Goeff Hansen at the registration table.  I got there around 8:30.

Things started off slow and chilly, but by 9:30 the registration table was hopping and things were heating up.  I talked with one of the organizers who said that they had around 88 pre registered walkers; by the end of registration – 10:00 – I would guess we signed up between 30 and 50 more.

There were lots of free coffee and donuts for the crowd plus there was homemade pie and other goodies that helped warm up the volunteers.  After a brief opening ceremony in which Representative Goeff Hansen gave a short talk to further energize the crowd; the group then broke up into sections for the walk led by a bagpiper and the Alzheimer’s march was in motion.

This also was Goeff Hansen’s 50th Birthday party back in Hart, so he had to get back to Hart and I followed later.  He told me that his family had been up early working on his party before he made the trip to Muskegon.  He said he was up late the night before doing party prep.  His Wife Tammy had been putting this together for a couple of weeks.

As I arrived at the Och’s home/farm in Hart a crowd had started to form.  I registered and found myself drawn to the food. Lol.  There was plenty; brats, hotdogs, and sloppy joes.  Tammy said she started with 50 lbs of hamburg to make them.  There were all the side dishes also, my favorites were the fruit salad, salsa dip and bow-tie pasta.  Plenty of drink was available from lemonade to Scotch.  Face painting and games were aplenty for the kids.

Later everyone gathered under the tents to hear some talk from Goeff and his special guests; Republican Caucus Leader in the State House, Rep  Kevin  Elsenheimer (R – Bellaire) and  State Senator Jason Allen (R-Traverse City) of the 37 district.

Goef’s brother stepped up next and gave the crowd some good laughs at Hansen’s expense filling the crowd with visions of Goeff’s youth and some of the antics we all go through.

From their talk and a fill in from Goeff I learned that Elsenheimer and Goeff share an apartment in Lansing right across the street from Senator Allen and together they call themselves the Hayford Street Mafia.

I had a chance to sit and talk with Rep. Elsenheimer about the budget “negotiations” going on.  Friday, several people had issued a Press Release saying a budget agreement was worked out between legislative leaders.  It claimed a balanced budget without raising taxes.  It was a vague PR.  Eisenheimer was one of those legislative leaders and the Republican House voice in the mix.  The deal was between Democrat House leader Andy Dillon and Senate Republican leader Mike Bishop.

I had one question for Rep. Elsenheimer and that was how much of the Stimulus Money was going to be used to balance the budget in that plan?  See link Below

—–link—–http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20090917/POLITICS02/909170394/1361/State-lawmakers-plan-to-privately-discuss-budget-over-the-weekend/Michigan+leaders+reach+key+deal+in+budget+talks
————–

Kevin was forthcoming and knew the subject well.  He said as it stands the agreement uses $400 some million of Michigan’s share of Federal stimulus monies.  I liked the straight answers.  From further research I found the Governor wanted to put in all nearly all of it; $2 billion, to fill the $2.8 billion state budget hole. As Rep. Elsenheimer pointed out to me, in this legislative plan the majority of the Stimulus money could be used to for what it was intended for – creating jobs and not just to pay off debt. 

He also talked of how the cuts in spending were real and would be painful, and was happy to see Andy Dillon sign on to the deal to avoid a state government shutdown.

As we were talking Marve Engle, Muskegon County Commissioner from the 5th District sat down with us also, and one of the two huge Saint Bernards came to say hello and I couldn’t resist taking a pic. 

The dogs were a hit and also served as unofficial greeters.

I introduced Marve and he of course was all business about the budget and how it will affect revenue sharing.  This talk to me was a perfect picture of what will be happening all across the state over this or whatever deal is made on the budget.  Commissioner Engle is where the rubber meets the road.  As he explained to Rep. Elsenheimer the County has already made deep cuts and he just doesn’t know where they can cut any more.  But like he said if they have to they will find a way.

Kevin was justly proud of the work the leadership had done.  As he said to me, when was the last time the state of Michigan actually cut its budget by 10%, especially without raising taxes?  I too would be proud of that.  I got out of debt awhile ago and I was proud of that.  If my state leadership does the same I will be proud of that accomplishment and of them.

As the liberal wing of the Democrat party and the governor step back into the process, the process will again start to fail.  Already the Detroit News on line is writing about it.

 —–link—–http://www.detnews.com/article/20090918/POLITICS02/909180356/State-budget-deal-may-unravel
————– 

So the battle continues as the Granholm whirlwind returns from Japan at the last second to what ???   Save the Day ??? or Pull the last plug on our sinking ship?

Well forgive me, back to Goeff’s 50th B-Day.  Rep. Bill Huizenga showed up with his family to picnic and later fish.

The Runnel’s were there from Lake County and the ever present always working Juanita Pierman the Oceana Chair was here also.  Jane Drake, Marc Libant, and Jon Bumstead all candidates for the 100th Michigan District Seat were there. Many other notables were coming and going. 

Later karaoke gave us all some entertainment which was followed by a live band.

Did I forget to mention the Dogs were a hit. lol

At this point I must say that the Ochs were gracious hosts and their Home/Farm was the perfect setting during a perfect day in which to appreciate what Michigan and its glory is all about;   What Michigan’s verision of the American Dream is.

Regards, Live Dangerously Be A Conservative

“A good tactic is one that your people enjoy. If your people are not having a ball doing it, there is something very wrong with the tactic.” 

That is a quote from Saul Alinsky and from his book “Rules for Radicals” 

I went to and was involved in the initial Tea Party thing and I still feel the sense of community I felt in Lansing on the steps of the Capital with a few thousand people who felt as I did.  Never have I felt that same sense of community. I ENJOYED IT.  IT FELT FUN.  At the same time I felt as if I was doing something worth doing.

I’ve talked with some who went to the Tea Party in Muskegon and though smaller they still felt that same sense of shared Community. 

Using our Freedom is exhillerating and empowering.  No matter what side of the fence you are on it can be a good feeling to find a group that shares your basic beliefs.  If that group has “fun” doing what they do, it will probably gain new members;  if not people will stop coming. 

The Republican Party needs to understand that.  The leadership if it is to capitalize on this Conservative movement has to learn how to first have fun then ask for the donations.  To paraphrase the old ad; the Republican leadership has to “Make money the old fashioned way, they have to earn it.” 

Andie Collier and Daniel Libit wrote an excellent article in Politico titled “Conservatives Use Liberal Play book.  That is where I lifted the Alinsky quote. See link below. 

—–link—–
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0909/27285.html
————– 

Note if you will, the title said “Conservatives” not Republicans.  Being active in the local Republican Party as a Precinct Delegate and a Conservative I am constantly reminded of the differences. 

A fellow local blogger and I once agreed with one of the conclusions of the article; namely that if we were born in an earlier time, we may well have been on the front lines in the early labor movement.  Having just said that, I and he I’m sure he would agree find no hypocricy in the fact that we both in our ways are on the front lines of the Conservative movement now. 

All movements go through different stages; but they all start with “radicals” the in your face abrasive types.  These are the ones that stir up the emotions and bring out the people that are mad but have nowhere to turn.  Once they are massed, then Alinsky’s advice works it’s magic.  

The Most important thing however is that the “Radicals” of what ever stripe have a message that resonates with a lot of people in the first place.  Simply yelling and screaming about the color of the sky will not become a movement.  Yelling and screaming will if it ressonates with the inherrent distrust Americans have for government and the fear they have of losing their freedom to bureaucrats.

That feeling started before our country did.  It is the reason for our country.  It started way before Alinsky put his spin on it.  People have been spinning that message for a long time.  Now it is the Conservative’s turn.  We can take a page from Barry Goldwater who said. “Never forget there was only one freedom on which this nation was founded; that was freedom from government.” -Barry Goldwater … 

Again the Alinsky quote is valuable.

—–quote from article—–
And, according to Alinsky, that’s one of the keys to a good uprising: As he put it in “Rules for Radicals,” “A good tactic is one that your people enjoy. If your people are not having a ball doing it, there is something very wrong with the tactic.”
——————————-

What can the “Five Counties” do?

Have events that center around enjoying our freedoms by using them.  The 1^st Ammendment enshrining “Free Speech” comes to mind, mix that with picnic type of thing and “Free Assembly” and we’re off and running.  Get a fiery speaker who talks for 10 min. not two hours and good food and some “fun” activities and we will be starting to get the message.

In this way we can build a community of Republicans.  As the article alludes to we need to take the best from the liberal play book.  We need to build a Republican Underground that is always popping up hither and yon with events and activities centering around enjoying and promoting our freedom.  But we need to do it in a “FUN” way.

Last month Muskegon started having the following event after after each business meeting.  This is a good example of building a community through fun things.  Last month’s “Monday Madness”  was a success.  The main thing as with all of this is to keep the community we’re building as open as possible and encourage new members.  See side bar “calendar”

My kudos to my blogger buddy for coming up with this idea, and seeing it through.  After the meeting everyone gets a chance to talk and let off steam about politics over something good to eat and a libation if wanted.

 We as any minority have to use hit and run tactics.  We are smaller, we use that as our strength because we can be quicker, more agile and react faster than our politically bogged down opponents.  We ourselves need to become not bogged down. 

We can stop worrying about embarrassing ourselves and more about getting the word out any way we can. 

Talking about things popping up lol.  Well Muskegon recently had an “Adopt a Highway” program.  I just got a pic from Hank about Mason County’s “Adopt a Highway”.  See pics below.

I’m wondering if Newaygo, Lake or Oceana have similar “Adopt a Highway” programs.  If so send me a pic and I’ll put it up and we can make a new Gallery of the sign pics.

Also Lake has had success with putting up some yard signs with their Republican Party name and contact #s.  We could add something snarky like “Had Enough”  Join The Republican Party and Contact #s.  Keep moving them get our membership involved, have fun.  Have a “Had Enough” party.  The conversation has started from Lake to the Oceana Party, and just at our last Carmen Group (see calendar on side bar) there was talk of yard signs.  Well you get the drift.

Things need to be constantly popping up, the type of things that people will talk about and invite others to come to.  The list is limited only by our imaginations.  Some will fail, some will succeed, some will start to get old;   We need to Act accordingly. 

But as Saul says, “Let’s Have a Ball Doing It”

Regards, Live Dangerously Be A Conservative

September 15th, Tuesday

Interview with Jay Riemersma – Candidate for the  2^nd Congressional Seat

The upcoming general election in 2010 and the Primaries are promising to be long, wild and wooly affairs, with several contentious races from top to bottom.  Bottom Up Politics hopes to be able to help our readers learn about the candidates themselves who are running by what they are saying and doing through interviews such as this. Let candidates tell the voters what they stand for.

I hope to interview as many candidates as possible before the primaries, from the Townships on up to State wide candidates; also the US House Seat as well.  This site is after all called “Bottom Up Politics”.

Before introducing our next interviewee, I want to make a point of saying where I stand at the time of this interview.  I will simply say Positive, Negative, or Neutral.  This may change as I along with my readers learn more through this process.

Our interview today is with Jay Riemersma who has filed and is running to be our next US Congressman from Michigan’s 2^nd District.  In this primary, I am neutral.

Interview with Jay Riemersma

 Candidate for the 2^nd Congressional Seat

(Bottom UP) – Thank you Mr. Jay Riemersma for consenting to do this interview.

Reply – It’s my pleasure, Bob.  Thanks for the opportunity to share a little bit about who I am and what I believe, and thanks for your efforts to help inform and educate folks about what conservatism is, and why it works.

(Bottom UP) – Thank you also for inviting me to a luncheon prior to this with; Karen Buie, yourself and your campaign manager, Monday, June 22.  During that wide ranging talk you had mentioned that in your meetings with voters across the district you had sensed a feeling of discontent towards elected officials.  Can you elaborate upon this for the readers of Bottom Up Politics?

Reply - That’s right, but I think discontent is an understatement.  As I’ve crisscrossed the district listening to the concerns of business owners, party activists, and been involved in a few Tea Parties, I’ve heard the same thing time and again: our political leaders, are tone deaf.  People are fed up with out of control spending, a punitive tax system, bailouts that look like payoffs to political cronies, and the indebtedness that we’re leaving to our children.  People feel like they don’t have a voice because the officials they put in office to represent their values have compromised.

As you’re well aware, Republicans aren’t immune from this criticism.  We’ve had brutal back to back election cycles in large measure because our leadership abandoned their principles. I think these conservatives of convenience have hurt the party more so than any liberal attack.  I think there are a lot of people out there like me, who feel like their party left them behind. 

The upside, of course, is that when you consider the growth of government,  ballooning deficits, and the assault on our values, it’s becoming abundantly clear to people that “change” is a runaway train headed for a cliff.  Sounds nice in theory, but it makes a lousy philosophy of governance.  People want substance, not gimmicks, and that means true conservatives have an opportunity to take back ground that has been lost in the culture and in our party.

(Bottom UP) – During our talk I also had brought up your lack of a congressional record from which perspective voters could see your positions on various issues.  What have you to say to those who perceive this to be a drawback to your candidacy?

Reply – It’s a good question.  To those people I’d say two things: first look at our district’s immediate history.  Congressman Hoekstra had no legislative experience when he ran in 1992.  He’s become a highly respected leader in Congress and has represented his district well.  His inexperience wasn’t a barrier when it came to doing the right thing, and it won’t be for me either. 

Second, I think principles trump experience every time.  In this primary we’re talking about candidates whose “experience” includes raising taxes on businesses and families and using the tax code to pick which businesses win and which lose.  If we’re serious about reforming Washington, we’ve got to have an honest conversation about how to get it done.  I think it’s unlikely that exporting Lansing’s problems to Washington will have much effect.

One of my favorite politicians, Mike Pence has a great saying: “I’m a Christian, a conservative and a Republican.  In that order.”  That’s true of me as well.  I’m not ashamed of what I believe and I have the strength of my convictions. I won’t wilt under the bright lights, and I won’t just go along to get along.  Principled conservative leadership, an untiring work ethic, and a servant’s heart is what I bring to the table.  I think that stacks up pretty well against the experience of the rest of the field.

As far as my experience, for nine years in the NFL, I got paid to win, not to compromise.  I’ll bring that same determination to Washington.  My most recent job was working for one of the nation’s premier conservative think tanks, Family Research Council, on issues at the national level.  I’ve had opportunities to get to know numerous national leaders and to work along side brilliant policy analysts.  I think these experiences will serve West Michigan very well.

(Bottom UP) – As an “Outsider” in politics you will probably face an uphill battle as far as raising money especially through the established political apparatus.  Can you as others have done turn that “perceived” negative into a positive?  Also what role will the “New Media” play if any?  Do you have a website and if so can you give us a link to it?

Reply - People respond to vision, and I think that as I cast the vision for why conservatism works, how to restore credibility to our party, and how to move West Michigan forward, that’s something people can get excited about.  So while our fundraising may not look conventional, I think the potential is great.  We’ll definitely be reaching out and connecting with supporters via new media, Facebook, Twitter, etc.  And I’d encourage you and your readers to check out my website at: jayriemersma.com .

(Bottom UP) – At our previous talk your Campaign Manager Jane mentioned a Holland Sentinel Poll.  For my readers here is the link http://answers.polldaddy.com/poll/1696306/?view=results .  This is a very limited poll from a limited area but still it must at this early stage of the campaign bode well for you that you are leading your challengers by a healthy margin.  What does this poll mean to you?

Reply – As you said, it’s limited and early, so I don’t want to read too much into it.  But I think it’s perhaps reflective of what we’ve been discussing here, namely, dissatisfaction with business as usual politics and a recognition of what I offer.  I’m not an announced candidate, so to lead the field by nearly ten points was very encouraging.  I’m going to do all that I can to merit the support that people are giving me and to earn the trust of those who are looking for real leadership to emerge in this primary.

(Bottom UP) – I hope you will take the following questions in the spirit in which they are asked.  That spirit is to help provide our readers with a starting point on which to begin basing their opinion about your candidacy.  I might add that I think it wise that you have jumped in early for that reason.  

(Bottom UP) – Which skills do you possess and what experiences have you had which you feel will give you an edge in the primary campaign?

Reply - I played nine years in the NFL, an environment where you were paid to win–not compromise.  I was successful at the national level largely because for nine years I worked harder than any one else to earn and keep my spot on the team.  The work ethic my parents gave me, that has served me so well throughout the various stages of my career, will give me an edge.  From my experience as a coach and director at FRC, I understand that people respond to vision and leadership and that success is very much dependent on the team you build around.  So my ability to communicate my values and vision for our district and to build a great team is also an advantage.  Lastly, I’d say a willingness to listen to the ideas of others will give me an edge.

(Bottom UP) – As a freshman in the US House, I would think your main choices would be to decide upon which committees you would like to focus your efforts.  Do you have any specific committees in mind?

Reply – I believe I could make an impact on the small business, agriculture, appropriations, or armed services committees.  There’s a lot of policy work to be done (or undone as the case may be), and these are some of the committees where those reforms would likely start.

(Bottom UP) – In the US House Pete Hoekstra has sponsored the “Parents Rights” legislation.  Would you be behind this bill? 

Reply- In short, yes.  I would support this type of legislation though Hoekstra’s bill is actually a Constitutional Amendment.  There is an interesting debate among conservatives on this issue, some of whom believe that codifying parents rights is the best way to protect them from judicial activism, government usurpation, and international treaties.  Others believe that creating an amendment will limit the scope of parental rights. 

(Bottom UP) – If you were sitting right now in the US House, is there any specific bill or other action you feel an attachment to and would be fighting for?

Reply - Three things real quick: first, I’d work to reduce corporate tax rates to ensure American businesses can compete in the global market place and encourage domestic investment. Second, I’d work to restore funding to our missile defense program and make sure that our military has every tool needed to succeed. Third, I’d get behind the Title X Abortion Provider’s Prohibition Act.  This bill would prevent Title X family planning dollars (a.k.a. our tax dollars) from going to line the pockets of the abortion industry.  

(Bottom UP) – Can you give us a short version of your opinion on the following general issues?  If you already have any specific solutions or legislation in mind please feel free to share them also.

(Bottom UP) –

1. Transparency in government, fiscally as well as committee deliberations.

Reply - As the saying goes, sunlight is the best disinfectant.  A simple concept that would really help: one bill, one subject.  I think blocking amendments that aren’t germane to the legislation at hand would be a good place to start.  Prime examples: adding hate crimes legislation to defense funding, or funding for porn shows in the recent “stimulus” bill.  Americans are demanding, and Congress should act to ensure that there is adequate time for public scrutiny of legislation–no more 300 page amendments in the middle of the night and forcing a vote in the morning.  I’d also like to see an online system put in place that allows voters to connect every pork project to the Congressman that requested it.  You want turtle fences?  Fine, then put your name on it.  These are just a few ideas that I think would go a long way in bringing some accountability and transparency to Congress

1. Lower Taxes

Reply – Permanent tax relief, not temporary, targeted tax subsidies are needed to spur economic growth and investment, and provide stability to our markets.  Families and buisnesses alike will prosper, just as a rising tide lifts all ships.

1. Less Government Regulation

Reply - Michigan is one of the most heavily regulated states in the nation.  It’s part of the trifecta that’s crippling our economy (regulation, MBT, not a right to work state).  I’ll work to reduce federal regulation that hinders our economic recovery.

            4. Right to Life

Reply – When we diminish the humanity of the unborn, we diminish our own humanity.  I will unequivocally champion the right to life from the moment of conception until natural death.

(Bottom UP) – At Bottom Up Politics our mission is to bring more input from the Grassroots into politics.  I think part of the feeling of angst out there that you mentioned seeing was evidenced dramatically by the “Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less” protests on thru to the current “Tea Party” protests  which clearly shows people are fed up with the “Top Down” politics both parties and government have practiced in the past.  Do you have any suggestion as to how this “top down” government can start to be changed to a more “Bottom UP” and user friendly government? 

Reply – What we’re talking about is changing a firmly entrenched “Top Down” mindset.  There’s a belief among the political class that families and businesses are the servants rather than the masters of their government.  I think the message we’ve got to send to Washington is that they work for us and not the other way around. How we do that is by building on the momentum of the Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less, the Tea Parties, and the great showings at town halls across the nation in response to the Democrats plan to socialize health care.  I think it’s important to note that these protests and increased activism haven’t been ginned up by Republicans; they represent real concerns among a growing number of Americans that we’re on the wrong track as a nation.  What we need to do is effectively communicate with these folks, many of them orphaned conservatives like me, that their ideas of strong families, lower taxation, and limited government are still the values of the Republican Party.  Ultimately, culture is more important than politics.  And even if the leadership of our major parties doesn’t get it today, we’ve got to remain active and engaged and trust that our ideas win in the end.

(Bottom UP) – Another useful aspect of the internet is its ability to network with other bloggers and their readers.  Right Michigan has been a leader in this and “Bottom Up Politics” is doing our bit.  At this point I would ask you to entertain a question from fellow Muskegon blogger GordoMuskegon (Jim Riley) at http://muskegonpundit.blogspot.com.

(MuskegonPundit)Question – Jay,

Most of those running for Pete’s seat have extensive business success or political experience. 

If you are not running on your business or political record, your stance on the tough issues of the day are important. 

Michigan state government is broke, in good measure because of our anti-business climate and the enormous cost of state employee pay and benefits.

But even more damaging to our fiscal future is our underfunded state pension liability.

As our elected US Congressman, do you think the federal government should help bail out our state’s giant deficit? 

Reply - Absolutely not.  Nor do I believe it’s appropriate for our state government to use federal stimulus dollars to patch the state budget and short circuit the hard work of evaluating programs and cutting government largess.  Michigan families are in many cases making do with less–trimming their discretionary spending.  Lansing should follow their lead.  We have a spending problem in Michigan, not a revenue problem.  If we repealed the MBT, removed regulatory barriers, and made MI a right to work state, I believe we could see great investment in our state.  I realize those are all very big “ifs”.  But if there was ever a time for some bold leadership in Michigan, that time is now. 

(Bottom UP) – Thank You.  Here is a quote I found from a Politico interview. ((http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0609/23648.html ))

“They want leaders with the strength to stand up to higher taxes, Wall Street bailouts and out-of-control spending,” Riemersma said in the video. “People have encouraged me to consider running because I have the strength of my conservative convictions and will show leadership in these difficult economic times.”

Can you elaborate on this statement?  Can you help our readers understand what role religion would play in your legislative role?

Below is a link for my readers to a YouTube about forming an exploratory committee from which Politico took their above quote.

—–link—–
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_duHgB_sZM
————–

Reply – Our nation is undoubtedly at a crossroads.  The Obama administration and Congress have over interpreted their electoral “mandate” and frankly are trying to do much more than most Americans want.  Whether you talk cap and trade, defense programs cuts, or pork laden bailouts–our President, with the help of Congress, is pushing for a fundamental reordering of the American economy.  Now with the attempted back door socialization of our health care system, it’s dawning on Americans that the current leadership in Washington is not being guided by the principles that have made our nation great.  Whether it’s the disrespect of private enterprise, or the willingness of Congress to mortgage our nation’s future with reckless spending–these policies demand a thoughtful answer from those with the personal integrity to give them credibility.  People that know me–know what I stand for and how I’ve lived my life-believe in my ability to provide that kind of leadership in Congress.

My faith permeates everything I do; it’s not a check your values at the door, kind of faith.  I’ve always sought to bring God glory through my words and actions, and that won’t change should I be entrusted with representing the 2nd district in Congress.  I will seek to uphold the integrity of this high office in both my personal conduct and in the policies I advocate.

(Bottom UP) – I thank you for sharing your thoughts with our readers at “Bottom Up Politics”.

If there is anything else you would like to cover please feel free.  The floor is yours.

Reply – Bob, it’s been a pleasure.  Thanks for the opportunity to talk with your readers, and I hope our paths cross again soon. If you’re interested, you can learn more about my candidacy at: www.jayriemersma.com.   God bless you and you family.

<<<< bottom up edit — Our paths have crossed since this interview took place and as I posted Monday about the Lake County Reagan Day Dinner, Jay restated that he had earlier in that day officially announced that he is running for Pete’s seat Here is a link to his youtube about it. Be sure to see the second part. http://www.youtube.com/user/jayriemersma#play/uploads/1/Bby0RWln41A >>>>>>

 (Bottom UP) – Again, thank you Mr. Riemersma for taking the time to do this interview and we wish you all the best in this primary campaign.

As Always and With Appreciation; Live Dangerously Be A Conservative

Last night’s affair was a chance for Republicans to meet all the candidates who are running. 

At this point I must concratulate Joan and her crew for putting this fine, fun and informational event on.  I learned alot.  I met candidates I hadn’t met before.  Mike Bishop comes to mind.  Also Marc Libants did an excellent job as MC of the event, keeping things moving right along.

Also I took a lot of pics and will put them in a gallery format.  Please see my side bar and hoover on the “Gallery” button, then click “Lake Reagan” on the drop down menu.

As for the Candidates.  Jon Dewitt spoke for Pete Hoekstra for the Governor slot, Bill Schuette and Mike Bishop were on hand and each gave a good speech about what they would do if elected Attorney General. 

All four 2nd District Congressional Candidates were there and each gave their best.  On a special note;  Jay Riemersma had just made it official that he is a candidate earlier that day, so he was fired up.  Jay and Bill Huizenga are officially in the race, while Bill Cooper and Wayne Kuipers will not be far behind.

Of particular interest in Lake County is the race for Goeff Hansen’s term limited seat.  All three candidates for that 100th State House Seat were there, and gave a talk. They are; in alphabetical order; Jon Bumstead, Jane Drake and Marc Libants.

Geoff Hansen got up and talked about the budget but of course did mention he is running for the 34th State Senate seat.  That seat does not cover Lake County, but Goeff’s current House seat does.

Lake County is in the 35th State Senate District and Darwin Booher the current 102nd State Rep. is running for that Senate seat.  His opponent Timothy Moore was on the program but wasn’t there.  I’m sure there was a reason but I don’t know what it was.

The State Party was well represented by Barb Vander Veen the Vice State Party Chair.

Holly Hughes our National Committee Woman spoke about the National Party and its efforts, highlighting the push to help Mike  Nofs in the 19th State Senate special election race this Nov. 

About 50-75 people showed up for this Candidate informational forum and the food as always was excellent.  The salsa dip was to die for. lol.

This is proving to be an interesting political year ahead.  People are beginning to sense a move away from the liberal policies and back to more common sense policies; especially in Michigan.  This was pointed out in various ways by the Candidates last night. 

Call it what you will.  There is a Republican renaissance building steam, again especially in Michigan as voters in this Great Lakes state long not to be the poster child for failed Liberal policies. 

We yearn to become a State people point to and ask; ”Look at Michigan, how did they turn it around?”

Regards, Live Dangerously Be A Conservative

By The Way, I ate well yesterday.  The Muskegon County Republicans had their monthly noon Caucus at the Pizza Ranch an all you can eat affair then I topped it off with all I could eat at Lake County.  Nice full feeling being a Republican Today.

below are some pics of the Caucus Lunch.

September 14th, 2009

Hansen, Getting “To the Point”