For several generations, partisan leaders on both sides of the aisle have manipulated election and districting laws to reduce competition at the ballot box. The result is a political system filled with red and blue districts; a political dialogue that is conducted through ‘left’ and ‘right’ talking points; and, a political culture that discourages compromise.
The much-anticipated May jobs report revealed disappointing news. While 69,000 jobs were created, the unemployment rate inched up from 8.1% to 8.2%. The reaction from Democrats and Republicans has been predictable.
Unemployment, by the numbers. This coupled with the recent zombie outbreak ensures that the world is in fact ending in 2012.
Jonah Goldberg, writer and editor for National Journal, talked a big talk recently at the American Enterprise Institute.
"Ventura County Supervisor Linda Parks is woefully underfunded compared to her main competitors in California's 26th District primary. An independent, she doesn't have a party apparatus or a natural donor base to lean on...Despite that, Parks has national Democrats scared that she could cost the party a much-needed seat in Congress.
CNN – May Jobs Report is Dismal
Today’s May jobs report was underwhelming because only 69,000 new jobs were added and the national unemployment rate rose to 8.2%.
Don't you think it's a bit ironic that the day after New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg proposes a ban on Big Gulp sodas, he honors National Donut Day in Madison Square Park?
Independent candidates seeking public office generally face tougher hurdles than their partisan counterparts. A recent federal court ruling, which gives non-partisan candidates more time to collect signatures to qualify for the November ballot, will help level the playing field in Montana.
