Saying What You Feel Is Real

What’s more repugnant than the war in Iraq?

2007-05-08T10:47:00.000-04:00

As a former Marine combat and staff officer with service during Desert Storm, it’s not difficult to understand the arguments for and against remaining in Iraq.

Most progressives who are against the war argue there’s no assurance that continued occupation will end the civil war in Iraq, so “bring them home now”. Bush supporters argue, “we broke it, we fix it, cutting and running is defeatist and fight them there, so they don’t come here.”

The emotional heart of the current Iraq military spending bill is it’s unpatriotic not to support it, because it funds the troops. Those opposed to occupation claim their allegiance is to respect and preserve both civilian and military lives.

What is repugnant is the cavalier bravado at the expense of destroying military personnel and their families’ lives, while a large portion of military spending is not for their pay. Most of us are now aware of the unacceptable care many returning OIF veterans receive.

The Clinton administration is hailed as creating a budget surplus while Bush squandered it into a bloody red deficit. The dirty little secret neither Democrats nor Republican politicians are addressing is much of our nation’s budget surplus can be linked to a dramatic troop reduction of over 500,000 since Bush I was in office. Troop related costs are large, but are insignificant compared to the accompanying expenditures on ships, planes, tanks and multi-million dollar contracts for resupply, R&D and maintenance. When troop levels are cut, so is the need for the equipment they use.

Instead, we have military service contract fine print permitting us to send, resend and resend yet again the same troops to Iraq. It’s cheaper than expanding the military force-in-readiness. Yet, 100,000 paramilitary contractors in Iraq are paid two to four times more than our troops with our tax dollars. Meanwhile, terrorism exists beyond Iraq’s borders. Iran rattles its nuclear sword and North Korea fires a nuclear capable rocket across the bow of Japan. They know something we refuse to acknowledge. Short of deploying nuclear weapons, only ground troops are a deterrent and a military draft is off the table.

Eisenhower warned that when the political establishment acted at the behest of powerful military contractors, then there would be societal consequences. Just who is really supporting the troops?

Where do our interests and imagination lie?

2007-03-19T10:51:00.000-04:00

On Monday, I removed a leather bracelet from my wrist, which had four knots on it representing each year we’ve been in Iraq. Whether by action or inaction, we, our neighbors and our elected officials are deciding our fates. Expect something better -- now.

Fogged by ideologies ranging from conservative to liberal, the life blood of our political system remains financial; led by interests that are too often self-serving. Filtering out rhetoric noise, our elected are tasked with the collection and allocation of our tax dollars. They respond to their support base. Yet democracy works best when the interests of the greater good are served. Democracy, however, is not a spectator sport where more of our time is spent arguing, complaining and debating than actual candidate selection.

If all politics are local, then change ought to originate there. Property taxes grow higher with 70% or more of these funds going towards education. Digging deeper, we’d find this investment has shifted towards expanded retirements and health benefits. Labor costs don’t end when teachers retire. They compound as new generations replace them.

Now imagine if these dollars had been expended for newer books, expanded educational offerings, building maintenance and extracurricular activities, in addition to educators. The ever-dwindling remainder goes to services such as fire, police and municipalities, with much used to help our seniors. Would it make sense to rehire experienced teacher retirees in their 50’s and 60’s to work part-time to replace full-time teachers who have quit or relocated out-of-state? Imagine the savings. Now imagine other opportunities.

When many of us were still in public school, state and federal income taxes covered much more of the education costs. Corporations also contributed more then, too. This allowed local municipalities to invest in the infrastructure that best addressed local needs and preferences. Maybe it’s time we revisit this alternative.

Have family values morphed into “I got mine… you get yours? Imagine if the playing field had remained level and large corporations were contributing more into the federal system with most providing full retirement and medical as they once did. Imagine if national defense meant being a world leader that applied rigorous diplomacy towards strong alliances to bring change. Imagine if wars against despots and anti-democracy zealots were led by coalitions of nations.

Whose interests are served when our elected trumpet a need for better education, access to quality healthcare and dignity for our seniors when our safety has been hijacked by funding a limited war against an ideology concentrated beyond the borders of Iraq?

Imagine if the truth were told - there are only so many tax dollars and time to either choose a society based upon fear and conflict or one that believes our fate isn’t sealed. Demand federal investment in our health, education and welfare. Imagine if we all did.

Which political party provides for the greater economic good?

2007-02-22T15:01:00.000-05:00

John Hazen White Jr., a Rhode Island business and civic icon, has expended untold thousands of dollars on reaching Rhode Islanders about the looming financial challenges we all face. He doesn’t pull punches on laying blame on many of our elected officials and, by inference, those who are complicit due to our culture of indifference or inaction.

Our two dominant political parties bear examining. Their playbooks intend to attract the greatest number of supporters to branded messages of the greater good. Few would argue words and deeds often have a wide margin of difference. Who is accountable?

The prevailing message is that our national economy is strong. Let’s acknowledge there are some indicators supporting this position. But, let’s test this by an example with which many can relate. If a household pulls out home equity to reduce credit payments, they’ve reduced the strain on take home pay. If they remain living above their means (expenses higher than income) and use credit, it might be suggested they’re living at a higher standard in the short run. However, eventually, there’s more debt and inadequate earnings to cover it. This explains the higher incidence of foreclosures and bankruptcies.

Our federal government is operating in a similar manner by spending more than it takes in. More of our tax dollars are paying federal contractors and more expensive health care. These federal tax dollar expenditures are distinguishable from the consumer sector’s buying housing and new vehicles. The reduction in consumer purchases is evidenced in part by the significant lay-offs in these industries. Walmart, often a bell weather of consumer confidence, reported its first decline in revenue growth. Like increased personal debt and less income, our country is borrowing from the future with China funding our debt through bonds (loans). There’s clear evidence they plan to invest in alternative opportunities which will provide better rates of return. Few elected officials are willing to pull the pin on the “we need to raise taxes” grenade. Yet few are curbing spending or muscularly allocating funding to programs that benefit our future.

Needless to say, when it comes to Rhode Island, fewer federal dollars are being made available to one of our most contentious local issues – education. Our Democrat controlled General Assembly, with a large share of its members representing the Greater Providence area, has taken the position that quality education and well paid teachers are synonymous. This is why a large portion of state tax revenues and federal fund allocations remain in Greater Providence and fewer dollars flow back to communities not as well represented. Both businesses and homeowners know they’re shouldering the growing burden of retirements and pay that eventually trickles down to our local levels.

If it’s true that low income families don’t vote as much as those with better means and those over age 50 turn out to vote more often than most, then it's up to us to make sure our kitchen table issues are being addressed.

Truth & Terrorism

2007-02-02T11:47:00.000-05:00

For those who support the war in Iraq so Islamic terrorists don't bring the war to the States... I understand your reasoning. For those who believe our presence in Iraq only inflames moderates to become radicals... I understand your reasoning as well.

What I do not understand is why the two positions are mutually exclusive. Both want to neutralize the threat of terrorism. Most agree that fundamental religious views are not the pervasive cause even though it may make it easier to target over one billion people. It is akin to suggesting that all Germans were Nazis.

I cautioned a good friend who is among those in support of American troop withdrawal from Iraq that their efforts would be negated by a clever scheme. The ploy is the increase or surge of troops suggested by the Bush administration. In effect, this takes the wind out of those arguing for phased withdrawal. It does this by controlling the message. Few elected officials would be willing to be tainted by supporting funding cuts. This would be categorized as being against the troops, not better expenditure of defense funding. When is the last time we heard about withdrawal? If you said just before the November elections, you're correct. It's a clever subterfuge of the underlying issue of maintaining presence and troop strength in Iraq.

What should be asked is does the United States have adequate combat troop strength given the force reduction of over 600,000 more than a decade ago. Let’s not forget the number of redeployments for active, reserve and National Guard personnel.

It would be ignorant to believe there are no terrorists in Iraq or that the majority of them are in Iraq. The question should be "Are we doing battle with them effectively as this was supposed to be a global war on terrorism?" We're led to believe this effort was righteous as reflected by the loss of American lives. Most American lives being lost are as a result of being caught in sectarian violence between groups who all seek power and economic influence. The guise of religion is to create the distraction and passion of them versus us.

Ponder this... The United States has been fighting the war on drugs. What is notable is that most drugs come into our country from foreign containers and across the border. Given the tighter border/national security after 9/11, how is it there has been no significant decline in the flow of drugs? Afghanistan, one of the two countries targeted by our GWOT, now distributes more heroin to the rest of the world than when the Taliban and Al Quaeda were dominant in the region.

If we want to be serious about actually minimizing physical and fiscal risk of terrorism on American soil, we have to recognize that the enemy cannot be over-generalized and that fundamentalists do not only reside in the Middle East. Our foreign policy has placed the awesome American military power with not one aircraft battle carrier group in the region, which is typical, but three. Pakistan, Indonesia, Philippines, Turkey, Saudi Arabia... and other nations all have significant Muslim populations. The notion of "fighting a war" to arouse our patriotism paralleling WWII is a ruse. The enemy, and their location was clear then. Their ideology was wrapped behind a banner of the swastika and the rising sun and later the hammer and sickle.

It seems there are several hard truths that neither misdirected nor misguided rhetoric will resolve. There are organized people who have directed their ire principally at the U.S. government and by extension Americans - not all Democratic nations' or their citizens. These other nations... mostly allies... stood with us before and immediately after 9/11, but many have distanced themselves since then. Is it legitimately from fear or a more objective and seasoned global perspective? None want terrorism on their lands, but believe we need to balance strength with humility. A good place to begin is to expect our elected leaders to level with the American people and for us to be honest with ourselves of the costs and consequences of recklessness.

In order to secure support, our approach to this endeavor requires legitimately locating those who would mean us harm in a manner that is more effective than our border security or war on drugs has been.

Strength with Honor in the Middle East

2006-12-18T12:09:00.000-05:00

The greatest challenge to significant change is sustained resolve, equity and time. In a Democratic society it requires a majority consensus and raised awareness. The majority placed more centrist Democrats in office, who are unlikely to appear soft on national security or for their support of our troops in Iraq.

The road traveled into Iraq has put into motion a Pandora’s box of global proportions and implications. The left argues for withholding federal funds to bring a timely end to our occupation. Obviously, our tax dollars could be applied to better purposes. And then there are those on the right who believe additional troops could contain the escalating sectarian violence and protect the too few troops there. They're belief is "might makes right" and all that is needed is continued resolve.

Few disagree that whatever the decision, it serves our interests to protect American military lives in the region by extricating them from the midst of this conflagration. We now recognize the harsh reality that sustained American combat troop strength has been inadequate. It may require bending existing Reserve and National Guard policies or resurrecting a draft to replenish the already critical conditions of multiple combat tours.

Sectarian violence is not limited to Iraq because the underlying issue is one of power and influence over resources not limited within her borders. Few believe Iraq’s leadership is prepared to share power or maintain order even under an established timeline. Four years of the status quo has created an untenable situation of existing strained relationships.

Pakistan bordering on Afghanistan which borders on Iran has a thin level of control over fundamentalist Islamic leanings. Neighboring India needs stability and an unstable Pakistan on her border will not do. Both are nuclear powers; hence, Bush’s visit there. Turkey wants stability on its border with Kurdistan and Iraq and is worried about an oil wealthy and separate Kurdish state. Syria bordering Iraq may be concerned with an all too powerful Iran and its support of the Sunni minority concentrated in Baghdad in Iraq.

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, while both oil rich and wealthy kingdoms, don’t possess the military capacity of the Iranians and would be concerned over instability in the region where Iran may accomplish what Saddam had tried in 1990. And what would Americans do when gas is then $5.00 or more per gallon? Let’s not forget the simmering hostilities among Lebanon, Palestine and Israel and our military presence in Kuwait.

This is the peril of limited military presence without an exit strategy. Are we willing to lose lives to save face? Is that what winning means? If containment and stability is our military role then a preferred option may be maintaining combat troops aboard ships in the Gulf. The pride of America can still exist through muscular diplomacy, which inevitably must happen. We have to work with European and Arab nations in a coalition to bring stability to the region. It makes political and economic sense, too.

China, France, Germany and Russia all have significant economic interests in the area and also benefit from stability in the region. Hence, this is far from a left-right issue of our military presence, but our public’s resolve to demand the best viable solution among many poor ones. That brought an end to the Cold War - strength with honor.

100 first days "wish list" for Democrat Congress

2006-11-09T09:46:00.000-05:00

I commend both Sheldon Whitehouse and Senator Lincoln Chafee for their valiant efforts to provide public service to our state. Now that the votes are cast and election decided, Chuck Collins' outline provides an excellent plan for our 111th Democratically controlled Congress in '07.

1. Hearings on war profiteering.
2. Hearings on Executive Branch misconduct.
3. Hearings on oil industry influence.
4. Hearings on poverty - living/low wages
5. Hearings on taxpayer big oil/coal subsidies
6. Hearings on executive fiduciary duties/CEO pay.
7. Hearings on solutions to wealth disparity.
8. Hearings on anti-trust enforcement.
9. Hearings on expanding health care coverage.
10. Hearings on the care of Iraq War veterans.

While we’re addressing accountability, imagine if we had the will to pursue this in Rhode Island with our statewide elected officials and political appointees. This is clearly an area where the character and conviction of our incumbents ought to be highlighted, showcased or chastised. Otherwise, the impending under-funded pension issue will come to the forefront as a battle of taxpayer tolerance and fiscal responsibility.

I see this issue and increased college/votech financial aid as ones where our efforts could galvanize Rhode Island’s all too often disenfranchised youth into becoming more engaged to protect their future. Perhaps the connection between funds going to Halliburton versus our communities is also a “progressive” issue that need not be a partisan one.

Choose the Candidate who Counts

2006-11-06T10:03:00.000-05:00

Those among us who have children learn(ed) that the best way to end a temper tantrum was to divert attention away from the item/issue that was the source of the emotional tirade. It's a clever trick and it works. As we grow older we are given fewer choices, such as pick this or that. It limits the options and makes selection somewhat easier while leaving the impression we had a choice.

Those not wishing to play this game just sit out. This does not prevent them from having a beef with the game or its players. I'd argue they give up their right to have much of a say because we’re all either part of the problem or part of the solution. Such is true for politics.

In Rhode Island, as well as all across the nation, we are usually given a choice of Democratic blue or GOP red. These are not sports teams. This is not a sporting event. The biggest responsibility these two parties have is to determine how our tax dollars are collected and allocated. The social component of their positions ranges across party spectrums with conservatives to be found in the Democratic Party and liberals found among Republicans - they're emotional diversions.

Those elected who appear to be most beholden to the public are often labeled as moderates; however, as the pendulum swings from right to left and holds for any length of time - "center" becomes unclear. Many would argue this is not your parents' party any longer. How true when Democrats become hawks beholden to big corporate interests or Republicans spend our taxes and borrow money from our kids faster than they can collect it.

This brings me to several closing points.

(1) If you're relying on polls, television ads or pundits in the paper instead of taking 15 - 30 minutes to choose who is going to spend your tax dollars, then it's not an informed decision. Until just last week, many polls showed Sheldon Whitehouse ahead. However, in the past three days the Mason Dixon and McClatchy polls now show Chafee with a narrow lead. A person's history is likely the best indicator of their character and, like most job interviews, campaigns put their best foot forward. "I don't have the time to research the candidates. . ." Your daily life and thousands of your tax dollars are impacted by this choice. Find the time or you may fire a quality incumbent whose job it is to work within the gray area of politics.

(2) The Democratic Party was in control of the House for 42 years (1952-1994) under both Republican and Democratic presidents. While much was achieved there was also much left undone because some of those elected ranged from superb to less than mediocre. When we elect mediocre because we recognize a name and know little about their voting and legislative history, we are to blame, not the politician whose sole purpose is to get (re)elected. If our interests were legitimately coming first - we would already have open government, affordable health care, high quality education and economic security for our seniors. Then again we enabled both parties and they gutted our social security trust fund and permitted under-funded pensions.

(3) Wealthy and big corporate interests have learned this game well. They now win whether a Republican or Democrat is elected, because they help set the big ticket agenda, which is how tax dollars are collected and allocated. Reread the first two sentences. It's no surprise that the economic interests of those in their teens and twenties and the poor are overshadowed by our seniors, more affluent and business interests. They vote or influence the vote. Lofty ideals like quality education, diplomacy, universal healthcare and good paying jobs are elusive until we legitimately hold our elected officials accountable. Better still, we could level the playing field with campaign finance reform, so the middle class, small business owners and veterans are fairly represented. In the meantime, incumbents and those seeking their seats will say and do what they can to be elected regardless of party affiliation. This is why little is said about why we went into Iraq and why we're staying in the Middle East. Tens of billions of our tax dollars are being diverted from things that matter more here at home.

It's time for a progressive agenda with independent minded candidates to be considered within this framework. Until there's a better system out there, choose the candidate who you trust over the bluster and be prepared to hold them accountable or expect more of the same two or twenty years from now. Problem is, the costs of ignorance and indifference are eroding the very thing we hold dear - a quality of life for our families and neighbors.

Democrat Sheeler: Senator Chafee has Character

2006-10-31T10:24:00.000-05:00

Long-shot anti-war, anti-Bush US Senate candidate Carl Sheeler gave U.S. Senator Lincoln Chafee (R-RI) the nod over his Democratic primary rival Sheldon Whitehouse.

“In the Marines and the business world, character counts for a lot. It’s why we’re supposed to protect whistle blowers. We learned about Abu Grahib because a young troop spoke up. The same thing happened with Enron. It’s why we traditionally honor people who, while in the minority against all odds and at great personal expense, stand up for the greater good. Many worship Jesus for this reason. Even organized labor started in the minority to fight for an almost non-existent middle class. But regardless the party or the cause, power can and does corrupt. We see it in Rhode Island and we see it in D.C.

“I discussed this decision with folks like Democratic Party Vice Chair Joe DiLorenzo and former U.S. Senate candidate and Congressman Bob Weygand (D-RI). Our campaign was very public about withdrawing from Iraq well before it was popular. We called for replacing American troops with a Euro-Arab coalition. Chafee was the sole Republican senator to oppose the war and shares my solution of bringing Middle East stability. That takes leadership and character. While I commend his current position, my former opponent shifted where he stood on Iraq. It strikes me as politically expedient. I disaffiliated from the Republican Party as protest to Bush’s irresponsible fiscal policy and War in Iraq. I asked our Democratic lead General Assembly to hold Bush accountable, which they were unwilling to do. It’s not lost on me that the DNC/DSCC tried to recruit Chafee; especially, after he wrote in George H. W. Bush’s name for president in 2004. I say vote the person, not the party. I may not agree with Chafee on all matters, but I trust him.”

November 7 Voters: Character versus Charisma

2006-10-24T17:20:00.000-04:00

A pundit who has spent the majority of his life in politics confided to me recently that campaigns are about perception. It pains me to have to agree. Granted, there are the rare few who research the candidates' strengths and weaknesses, but most are swayed by the relentless bombardment of expensive ads.

In the Rhode Island U.S. Senate race the two opponents Chafee and Whitehouse have directly spent or had spent on their behalf almost $10 million. That's $30 for every voter expected to cast a ballot on November 7. Why would they spend that much money and where does that money come from?

In recent blasts both candidates are inferring the other is or will be beholden to the special interests that have funded their campaigns. If a candidate is backed by executives of big corporations from the energy or insurance or banking industries, do you expect bankruptcy laws to favor working families, interest rates and insurance premiums to be reduced or the price of gas to go down?

We cannot blame nor should we condone the candidates for taking these contributions, if "we the people" are so easily duped into believing that "we the people" will have our issues addressed before those of special interests. Yet, year after year, it's what happens and we blame the parties and the politicians or the "system". WE are the system and it costs us a hell of a lot more than $30. The latest deficits now cost every American over $28,000 each.

Blue state or not, 40% or more of Rhode Islanders voted for "W" in 2000 and 2004. The second time even when there were rumblings about the legitimacy of the Iraq War. The costs were already apparent with less money for education and healthcare, higher energy and property tax costs. Was this about charisma or character? Did voters vote based upon what they wanted to hear or did they really examine the likelihood of promises made to be kept?

If you're voting for/against a candidate because s/he is with the "wrong" or "right" party without examining the wo/man's character, then we can expect to have more of the same.

My criteria are simple. All politicians are assumed to play politics. It's the nature of the game. On issues that put the public at risk or increase hardship, does the greater good prevail? In 2006, I want a candidate who shows independent thought when it’s not always popular to do so. My criteria are the Iraq war and taxes. The candidate who shows how s/he will hold the President and Congress and special interests accountable, in concrete terms, will get my vote. They ought to get yours, too. After all, it's about character, not charisma. As you can see, the price is too high not to get your tax dollar's worth.

Who is Accountable? We are!

2006-10-10T10:32:00.000-04:00

A Republican Congressman slimes the net with provocative words directed to a teenager. It’s not the first time and other elected officials have done it also. We pretend he doesn’t associate with Democrats and none knew of this behavior. Are we baffled the GOP leadership closed ranks around Mr. Foley until the deception was revealed?

In this election year, Iraq is another litmus test. If you believe all those generals are wrong and terrorism can be contained in Iraq, then you likely support the “stay the course” candidate, especially in a red state. If you’re an incumbent in a blue state who voted for invading, then “you were misled” and don’t support the war. It nullifies your accountability. Then there’s the minority who opposed invasion from the beginning. In the U.S. Senate, the only Republican who opposed the invasion was Senator Lincoln Chafee. So is he heralded as an independent leader or just a GOP enabler?

The reasons given for invading Iraq were to depose the dictator Saddam Hussein because he allegedly supported state sponsored terrorism and had WMD. North Korea has been selling military equipment to our enemies for decades. Their leader is a dictator whose countrymen have starved to death. He appears to have nuclear capability; yet the U.S. is not going it alone and attacking - we’re asking for more sanctions.

Wasn’t this the criteria for invading Iraq? It’s time for fundamental truths. The U.S. military is the muscle for U.S. politics. The number of U.S. combat troops is finite, with a percentage deployed around the world. This differs from total troops, most of whom are in support, not combat, roles. Nations both friend and foe know our troop strength. We would have needed almost all our combat troops to effectively closed down Iraq. This would have lead to a quicker stabilization and withdrawal.

North Korea, a rogue nation, knows our government is mired in Iraq based on lies and incompetent prosecution of the war by those not wearing the uniform. They also know our troop strength and assume we’d not attack with China to their north. They believe our capabilities and foreign support are limited and wish to expose it. So why did they detonate their bomb? They want economic and political concessions.

So, I’m outraged at the absence of indignation over the growing global implications of our presence in Iraq. Politicians are enabled by our families who see the transgressions of Mr. Foley as greater than the Iraq debacle. Strategic thinkers in Iran are assessing the same thing. They’re wondering whether we have the stomach for a draft, because the troop strength needed to sustain an Iran ground occupation would necessitate having one. So who’s accountable for the Democracy we patriotically defend before November 7? The people are the government. We need to be honest with ourselves and expect others to be honest with us or we will suffer the consequences of our selective bias.

The 17% Conundrum: Issues vs. Partisan Politics

2006-10-03T10:38:00.000-04:00

In politics, nobody likes to be in the minority. It suggests the majority is correct. In politics, as with most things in life, the majority frequently prevails. The conundrum is when an equal number exist on opposite sides, then the remainder decides the outcome. This group often views their votes not as allegiance to a party as much as to an ideal.In Congress equality can create checks and balances that tend to limit corruption and benefit the populace. In election years, this minority decides which candidate will be selected. In business governance this is known as the swing vote and a premium is paid to influence their votes.

In Congress these deciders may expect some earmarks (pork) to influence their vote. When it benefits us they’re a good politician. When it benefits another state – well, you get the idea. In both cases, it’s still our tax dollars being spent. Interestingly, in the Rhode Island U.S. Senate race this undecided minority may represent the same 17% that did not support the winning Democratic primary candidate primary.

The underlying Democratic message bears examination, “We want to oust the GOP from Congress because they are taking us in the wrong direction.” I couldn’t agree more and believe our economic and security issues remain unaddressed. If you’re a good person holding a Congressional seat, as many feel Senator Chafee has been, then it becomes more complicated. His job is to use politics to remain in office, as well as benefit his constituents. Hopefully there is less of the prior and more of the latter. It gets cloudy when the party with which one is affiliated is set on rewarding its benefactors (contributors) and less so with improving the lives of the voters. This cuts both ways with both parties.

In Rhode Island, this presents some stumbling blocks. On few occasions have I heard said our Democrat controlled General Assembly has no room for improvement. Look at their approval rating. The special interests have so lopsided the playing field that the majority (voters) are seldom in the game. They say Democrat Lt. Governor Charlie Fogarty, who I believe is a good man, is the change needed in Rhode Island. This flies against conventional wisdom, as we’d witness the same situation we now have in Congress with no checks and balances. By extension, it infers Governor Carcieri is not a good man or a good governor, but as a Republican he ought to be voted out. Current polls suggest the argument is not persuasive; yet corruption needs to be rooted out.

If state level partisan reasoning was solid, then it bodes well for Senator Chafee to remain in office. Conversely, if it’s flawed and there are no checks and balances in Congress, then a Democrat ought to be elected. This suggests Sheldon Whitehouse, by virtue of being a Democrat, is a better candidate than Lincoln Chafee. Speaking for myself and not for the other 17%, why have both candidates remained silent on real campaign finance reform that would place voters’ interests ahead of special interests? Evident information shows the reasoning used for the war in Iraq was built on lies. Why will neither candidate state what measure of executive accountability should to be applied? When the candidates’ political lifeline prevails over moral courage to act on principle, this is politics at its worse. It’s a detriment to the issues impacting not just the 17%, but the faithful and/or unquestioning 83%.

What if…

2006-09-29T10:12:00.000-04:00

…health care was a basic American family right?
…taxpayer paid employee compensation was based on merit?
…elected officials could not accept special interest money?
…we did what was best and not what was necessarily easiest?
…we all voted based upon public good before partisanship?
…the media provided more independent journalistic investigation?
…two years of military or community service was obligatory for all?
…we waged war on human suffering instead of contributing to it?
…we spent funds on defense and not lining contractors’ pockets?
…quality education past high school was a promise?
…“support our troops” meant safety for them and all veterans 365/24/7?
…we spent more time with family/friends and less on labeling others?
…public corporations lost their tax loop holes and paid their fair share?
…we volunteered just two hours a week to a good cause?

So what’s keeping us? Our country used to rank first; from quality of life to freedom and our citizens were engaged in a common struggle – to be the best. The same “stuff” that mobilized our forbearers to come to this country with a dream and hard work is exactly what we need to reestablish leadership in our homes, communities and around the globe. It’s not a sound bite, it’s patriotic and common sense.

Don't Allow Capitalism To Dictate Our American Dream

2006-09-24T17:59:00.000-04:00

Is the real issue “less taxes through smaller government” or is it a ”feel good” sound bite? I’m unimpressed by the fiscal irresponsibility of the GOP and the absence of a coherent economic message by our Democrats. It has a hollow ring when campaign funds are derived from those whose interests depart from middle class and working families. It’s worth exploring as a candidate litmus test.

Iraq: If for a moment we cease listening to the Middle East saber rattling, we ask how has our hundreds of billions of tax dollars been spent? An enormous amount goes to all those defense contractors from bullets to bombs to band aids. The military industrial complex is BIG business with little competition. It’s very big business with very big lobbies and the help of many Pentagon officials looking for the big civilian sector job after military retirement. When the American flag is wrapped around it, it’s a tough sell to suggest it’s not solely about our nation or troops being more secure. There are plenty of jobs in all the states they operate, even with scaling back, but like price gouging at the pump it might seem unpatriotic to inquire whether large scale war profiteering has been occurring.

Health care: Survey small and large businesses, municipalities and property owners and most agree health care costs are out of control. The insurance and drug industries have no motivation to see the percentage or amounts of profits drop. They convince us those profits pay for R&D, but those 20%+ profits are AFTER research and development. Medicare is one of the biggest public rip offs of taxpayers dollars. The insanity ends when the public demands campaign finance reform. Only then will more economical national health care become a reality that benefits us all.

Efficient Government? If we pay more to outsource, we are wasting our tax dollars. This applies as much to education as it would to prisons or retirement accounts. We need to examine the decades old “war on crime” and “war on drugs”. When are we going to consider how much gets spent and what real value we’re obtaining? It’s not being soft on law enforcement to reduce the reasons why some resort to crime. If an argument can be made that investing in education for a child past high school results in a higher earning citizen and taxpayer, then the same would apply to young people at risk who might otherwise dropout. The bureaucracies often have no motivation to seek a result that produces obsolescence. There’s no winning if you’re attacking the result and not the cause.

Until we have our elected officials seriously address economic issues on ways to create good paying jobs and rebuild our middle class, we can expect they’ll remain subservient to the special interests who finance their campaigns and/or insulate themselves instead of their constituents.

Post Primary Philosophy

2006-09-18T10:31:00.000-04:00

It's been a week since the Rhode Island primaries. The first twenty-four hours afforded me time to complete a sizeable business valuation engagement for a client owning full and partial interests in about thirty companies holding hundreds of millions of dollars in income producing residential properties. By week's end, my youngest son and I erected a good part of his tree house. My wife and I had cleared a walking/jogging path around our property line. Our youngest daughter had a school dance, sleep over and a softball tournament. This likely describes many Rhode Island families just getting on with their lives.

We've received many calls, letters and emails following Sheldon Whitehouse's win of the Democratic primary. Sentiments ranged from "you got your ass kicked" to "you ran an honorable race". What seemed a common theme was concern whether or not to vote for Senator Chafee in the general election. I ran because of the Iraq War and our failure to hold our government accountable is destabilizing our nation and our communities. Honor and humility are more important than hubris and partisan politics. Voting is a personal choice. My vote will be cast for the candidate whose actions, not television commercials, show he'll keep his promises and is concerned about Rhode Islanders' kitchen table issues.

Nope, I can't make sense out of the low voter support. Frankly, it does not matter now. Any theories about whether the "fix was in" or "I should have thrashed Sheldon's record" make very little difference after the fact. My plans for the next two weeks or two years are to support my family and the ideals that take this country forward. It's patriotic and common sense.

Sheeler: Many, many thanks to all

2006-09-12T05:59:00.000-04:00

Win or lose we have made a difference. It’s a formidable team effort. We showed dignity and resolve. We have represented the courage of our conviction to support an open, honest and accountable government. We have challenged those who would place greater importance on money and power than on principle and people. We have highlighted that American lives should prevail and justice applies to all. We gave a voice to the all too often silent majority of working and middle class families. They are and will remain the backbone of this country. I am proud to be among them.

This was never a campaign about Carl Sheeler. It was a message that our U.S. Senate seat belongs to ordinary people working together doing extraordinary things. I am proud to have been the tip of the spear to challenge the political machine that all too often forgets that people, not politicking is what matters most. We want fairness and equity. This requires a balance of power. It requires vision looking ahead decades, not the next political cycle. Our dream extends well past partisanship where the least among us has a seat at the table.

Thousands of donors and supporters around the state and elsewhere did what no one person could do alone. They showed enormous faith and gave of themselves to a person who before was virtually unknown to most. This is what is the very best in what it means to be an American and a citizen of this nation. I am blessed by your generosity. Special thanks and prayers to my dear friend, Billy, who despite suffering personal adversity, was selfless in his time and resources in helping our “take back our country” campaign.

Gratitude goes to my family, kids, friends as well as incredibly patient clients and students for being so supportive. The most enduring aspect of this campaign is the devotion and effort my intelligent, gentle and beautiful wife Sara demonstrated. Her wisdom and Marine “can do” are the foundation from which everything else rises. God bless us all.

9/11: Americans United For Justice

2006-09-11T08:49:00.000-04:00

A simple truism is violence begets violence. Healing does not begin until we resolve differences. Our citizens are a people of principles and consciences. The outpouring of support for the families who lost loved ones was as consistent after 9/11 as it was after the Tsunami and Katrina. It is a source of American pride. We are quicker to respond compassionately and expect our government to reflect this psyche.

The amoral Bush Administration lost a lifetime opportunity to unify Americans as FDR and JFK had before him. Instead, Bush acted in a disgraceful manner that will go down in history as a false and politically motivated decision to attack Iraq and mire our country in the Middle East. He was enabled by a Congress that failed to exercise the courage of their convictions.

This act saps precious resources away from pursuing real terrorists, homeland security and pressing domestic issues like health and education. He failed to capture and kill those who perpetrated the attack. Bush used partisan politics of fear instead of strength and hope. He, and those complicit by agreement or absence of resolve, abused divisive issues of immigration, flag burning, choice, stem cell research, human rights, rights to privacy, taxes and special interests to divert attention away from war profiteering and the exploitation of our middle class and working families.

Rampant profiteering was manifest by energy companies, defense and construction contractors in no bid contracts that flagrantly benefited political contributors at the expense of our tax dollars. The burden of future interest payments will be on our children's children to pay down the $9 trillion deficit.

These failures overshadow the absence of government compassion towards the physical and mental suffering related to 9/11 by over 40,000 first responders and every day Americans who became heroes by selflessly helping outside of Pittsburgh, in Washington at The Pentagon and at the World Trade Center in NYC. They overshadow how our families are less safe since 9/11 because politics and bureaucracy decided where our tax dollars would be spent and on what.

These failures overshadow the abuses and lost lives of Katrina due, in part, to minimal National Guard unavailability. They overshadow the thousands of lost and damaged lives of loved ones because corporate greed and political favors dominated instead of direction, strength and compassion. They overshadow how this administration made religion judgmental and divisive instead of nurturing and inclusive.

We're not supposed to be perfect or invincible, but we are supposed to hold ourselves to a high standard - a country and a people guided by our laws and by what is right. This was once a source of admiration around the world. We are a people of consciences and principles. We expect nothing less from our elected officials. Our healing and reunification begins when together we act and vote. Those who sacrificed prior, since and following 9/11 deserve nothing less.

SHEELER BLASTS WHITEHOUSE ON IRAQ STANCE

2006-09-08T11:56:00.000-04:00

Providence, RI - Marine Veteran and staunch anti-Iraq war and anti-Bush progressive Carl Sheeler charges U.S. Senate Democratic Party opponent Sheldon Whitehouse as being "disingenuous" in his Iraq positions specifically and foreign and energy policies generally.

"Sheldon has been testing the political waters on Iraq since last year. This is exactly why a pedigreed patrician, regardless of money, is not necessarily qualified. I'm troubled by his acceptance of contributions from defense and energy industry executives. Sheldon has made clear, he would not impeach Bush. How do I trust statements to hold Bush accountable and calling on the firing of Rumsfeld, when it's the President who placed us in this disgraceful war and approves of Rumsfeld’s actions? Why should I trust Sheldon on veteran or military issues or the veracity of his domestic agenda?

“Sheldon has no cogent Middle East policy. He's called on President Bush to have an exit strategy and timeline when Bush has plainly stated he was leaving this to the next president to decide. Sheldon has vacillated from "stay the course" last year to an indeterminate "rapid and responsible" withdrawal to now extending our occupation due to the civil war. Sheldon has claimed he would have used diplomacy in Iraq and military force in Iran. He supported Bush's backing of Israel's invasion of Lebanon and Palestine. The only vision that works is a Euro-Arab coalition which would replace our forces and create stability in the region, which I have been calling for since July 2005. This would have saved over a thousand lives, billions of our tax dollars and lowered oil prices.

“There would have been a six month redeployment timeline to coincide with the voting on the Iraq Constitution. Failure to redeploy could leave our forces exposed to a very lengthy and bloody civil war, especially when three or more armed factions are engaged. Our military strength has limits in the absence of a draft. Even the Bush administration acknowledging the severity of our rundown combat troops, following third and fourth deployments, when it announced on Tuesday the hiring of an outside contractor which will be paid $5,700 per individual recruited.

We have 40,000 permanent troops stationed in Kuwait and the Kitty Hawk Battle Carrier Group in the Persian Gulf. Our troops have done their job and it's time for them to come home. We need to restore global alliances to pursue terrorists and defend our nation against the threats Iran, North Korea and others pose"

Election Politics: Fact, Fiction and Fantasy

2006-09-06T13:02:00.000-04:00

Few poli-sci majors will dispute there is both an art and a science to the election process. It's akin to economics, where the best reporting is often in hindsight. How else can one explain why there is more than a 30 point (30%) differential between polling results offered by the Chafee and Laffey campaigns this past week? Each shows the opponent winning by roughly 15% or a 65% to 35% vote split. Is it fact, fiction or fantasy? Absent of media investigative rigor, how much does simply reporting this create a self fulfilling prophesy?

This is not like cheering on the Red Sox. We're supposed to support them whether they're winning or loosing against the Yanks... but some cast their vote because they fear they might not pick the "winner" versus the "best" candidate. Mayor Laffey may have it right. Both of us hail from an analytical business background and know that polls and numbers can be manipulated very, very easily. I hope he agrees the only wasted vote is the one not cast.

In the case of the Democratic machine politics, in one month and over $500,000 in television ads later Matt Brown surpassed Sheldon Whitehouse in the polls by almost a 2:1 margin. The problem with this and subsequent polls is they often do not survey historic primary (core) voters, but rather likely voters. Traditionally, in most election years, primary voters often vote first based upon their local candidates and then on statewide and federal candidates. In June of this year, Survey USA reported Sheldon Whitehouse with a 30% favorable, 35% unfavorable and 25% undecided ratings. He polled worst among people 55+ and older as well as minorities and best with 25 and younger and those residing in the state fewer than five years.

The 55+ are the folks who ARE core voters. They have time and read and watch the news. They grew up when civics was part of the class curriculum. These are the people of WWII, the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Our youth do vote, but in much lower numbers. That could change if we go into Iran and the draft is reinstated. Those in the state for five or fewer years may not be aware of the York-Whitehouse acrimony and his failed gubernatorial primary (he skipped out on her afterwards), Cornell Young, Jennifer Rivera, Scott Hornoff, outsourcing the lead based paint case, feds taking over on PlunderDome, or the “higher office is my legacy" debacles. Undoubtedly, if he wins his primary the media will likely highlight these facts to stir up the controversy.

Fiction is so much easier to present. After spending in excess of $2 million in advertising, Sheldon's numbers have not moved measurably against Lincoln Chafee in the past two months nor is there much discussion over some base erosion from the caustic nature of the Chafee-Laffey mudslinging of cross-over democrats voting as Independents in the primary or in the general elections.

Is it fantasy to think that primary voters have had enough of machine politics? Strip away the inherited wealth and pedigree education and upbringing. The public has clearly seen that their best interests do not necessarily correlate with the most privileged who would spend much to gain the power. This might explain why incomes for most of us have stagnated compared to those in the top 5% or why working and middle class families serve in the blue uniform of first responders (EMT, fire and police) and the green uniform of our armed services in disproportionate numbers to the affluent. This was not always the case, but certainly has been during the past three decades.

Our campaign trusts Rhode Island voters. We trust many primary voters connected with our Be Patriotic, Impeach Bush and bring our troops home now messages. We trust they have seen us at their gatherings, parishes, banquets, meetings and communities supporting their local candidates and issues. We don't think it's fiction we've seen our gap close to single digits against Sheldon nor do we think it is coincidence he chose to avoid debating or has spent over $2 million thus far in the primary if he thought he had anything to lose with his name recognition so high. The polls won't capture all of the local primary races from folks like you and me who have simply had enough and believe they can do the job better.

Many a million has been spent by the loser. The fact remains is that the only number that matters is this: How many will go to the polls and what issues they want resolved and by whom?

9/11 Fear Versus 9/12 Primary Hope

2006-09-05T16:43:00.000-04:00

Our response after September 11 was fear and anger followed by distrust in government. Our elected officials did not live up to their promise to protect our families. Instead we have four more years of “The Decider” who has been a national disgrace as a divider. Yet, the terrorists could not take away the most prized freedom many have died to defend – our democratic right to vote. Do we now allow the party to choose or can we do better?

The beauty of primaries is WE have the opportunity to select who represents us. This is what party machines fear most. Their power is based upon the knowledge people may complain about their elected, but seldom take action. Machine politicians promise the world, but rarely deliver. I call it the politics of the one night stand.

They say what you want to hear in order to get your vote. They know only one in five eligible to vote will do so in a primary. They’re helped by special interests that want them in power. Yet, they say “if you vote for me, I’ll end corruption.” Have they done so in their political career? Are they accepting contributions from corrupting influences? Come on.

In federal races we can ask what is meant by “rapid and responsible.” What does “hold Bush and oil companies accountable” mean? Bold visions like my Euro-Arab Coalition to stabilize the Middle East, a Coalition of Americas bringing economic and national security to the U.S. and Latin America, billions invested in alternative energy or partnering with China to merge our economic futures all seem so distant. While voters expect the best of what humanity can produce, they look to a promising future to head off more kitchen table issues experienced by our struggling families who are working hard to just get by.

What I love about elections are the local primaries. In Providence, 12 out of the 15 wards have Democratic incumbents with primaries. In Cranston, there’s a four way mayoral primary. In Cumberland, not only is there a mayoral race, but every ward has a primary, too. This is repeated in Johnston, Lincoln, Pawtucket and places throughout our state.

In local races, we can see our property taxes being raised and determine if our schools are performing here and now. We can see if our community services are adequate and if we’re getting value. We definitely feel higher prices for lodging, food, energy and health care are eroding our incomes. We know we’re paying a lot in taxes, so we’re being reasonable to expect relief. I’d go one more. We have the right to demand reform.

We have higher energy prices because our presence in Iraq creates instability and oil companies have been allowed to gouge us. This is permitted by those who accept contributions from the defense and energy industries. These special interests want to control how and from whom your tax dollars are collected and how and on whom they’re spent. They’re hurting us locally and it’s time to fight back in our local primaries. On September 12, your vote decides that our tax dollars are for education, retirement security, health care, our veterans, our seniors and to improve our incomes and communities. It’s time we bring “hope” back to our Hope state. It’s patriotic and common sense.

The Sheldon Facade

2006-08-31T10:46:00.000-04:00

Sheldon has been kind enough to refer to me as a hardworking and very likable fellow; however, that won't stop me from addressing what needs to be said about this primary when our lives have been so immeasurably altered in the five years since 9/11. Sheldon's advisors say "stay out of the ring". But he's going to give Rhode Islander's only one peek under the tent with a debate on public television for a whopping 30 minutes. Contrast this with the four debates between Senator Chafee and Mayor Laffey. The reason why you’ll only see one debate is because there's always the chance that after spending about $2 million in ads his carefully groomed, DC-advised image might show the spots and stripes are right where they were before, during and after his gubernatorial primary defeat to Myrth York in 2002.

Our middle class is feeling the economic squeeze from misplaced special interest loyalties and bad government. As a business owner and a candidate from a middle class family of five, we've also been impaired by high energy prices and property taxes, not to mention health insurance premiums.

Sheldon's decisions do not coincide with statements of concern for everyday folks. It's not just comments about the U.S. Senate seat being his legacy or deciding to run because his $350 an hour high-end lawyer position was boring. It's because 80% of his contributions are $1,000 and higher. About 70% of these folks are from out-of-state. They're attorneys and executives from the energy, insurance, banking and defense industries who've donated over $4 million so they can keep prices for insurance premiums high, banking fees high and interest rates high, energy prices high and continued taxpayer paid military R&D investment.

They're not feeling "the pain" but will have no concern if we get squeezed further. Remember when big business donors were the domain of GOP candidates? I do not know how he squares this with union management funds and endorsements whose rank and file are impacted as their income stagnates. Have they or many of us seen a real increase in adjusted take home pay in five or more years?

You strip away the patrician background and inherited wealth and you have a DC plastic politician who is setting the public up for a one night stand and then sticking us with the bill.

Sheldon's foreign policy is inconsistent and our troops' and their families' lives are in the balance. He claims he would have used diplomacy in Iraq, but military force in Iran. He stated he supported Bush's Israel use of disproportionate force that displaced and killed more civilians than Katrina did. This is the classic privilege mindset that lets our working and middle class die in battles that he and his will never encounter. As a U.S. Marine combat officer I would never ask others to do the duty I myself was unwilling to perform.

Sheldon's policies are poll tested; having gone from stay the course last year to "rapid and responsible" withdrawal to "about four to eight months before withdrawal." If Iraq is in the midst of a civil war that is expected to potentially last for years, where are the fresh troops and equipment supposed to come from other than a draft after the elections? Is this what our families want? I'm hearing they want adequate health care and funding for education and a stimulated economy. Sheldon can't say he provides both. It's an empty promise.

Sheldon has conveyed he is strong on law enforcement, but has made clear he does not hold Bush accountable even if some of his acts have clearly been shown to have exceeded his executive authority according to our Constitution. If Sheldon is unwilling to defend our laws (he certainly was loose in their enforcement while AG) why would he represent our rights in Washington? There is a reason why Sheldon has not made political hay of his time as state attorney general.

Undoubtedly, if Sheldon wins our primary, the RNC/RSCC will put the Democratic Party through a buzz saw risking a possible win to Stephen Laffey. They might ask where Sheldon was for the four years after his defeat against Myrth York, because he certainly did not back her run against Governor Carcieri. Is this disloyalty? They may ask why his commercials do not mention that he's running as a Democrat. The media has not asked these questions.

Instead the media has been focusing attention on the more contentious GOP U.S. Senate primary race. There's certainly more money to be made in caustic television and radio ads there. Our commercials http://www.carlsheeler.com/video_plastic.htm and faith in working families’ kitchen table concerns are what we believe in. We need a public servant who sees the U.S. Senate seat as belonging to Rhode Islanders. That would be my working job... not a legacy of privilege. We have seen what those unaffected can do to our country. It's time WE the people take it back. Too many people have died before and since 9/11 to just have it bought by the highest bidder again.

As we Approach Five Years since 9/11: "Support Our Troops" Has New Meaning

2006-08-28T14:42:00.000-04:00

In Rhode Island we have over 102,000 veterans and 4,000 plus active duty, guard and reserve -1,300 more who are deployed. As a Marine veteran who served during Desert Storm and assisted with combat zone to stateside transition, I can tell you there are some significant issues that need to be addressed by our citizens sporting those yellow ribbons. Failure to do so may result in expanded recruitment options that may include the draft after 2006.

Not enough of our elected officials know first hand the honor of military service. All too frequently, they do not fully appreciate the local and national impact of maintaining a force of readiness and keeping our "support the troops" promise. Our combat troop strength was not designed for sustained occupation for three plus years and certainly not five if Bush/Cheney get their way. This may explain why half of our homeless are Vietnam era veterans. The myriad of "mistakes "have an impact on military recruitment, retention and morale. My perceptions are shared by many who are members of the VFW, AMVETS, DAV and the American Legion.

The "humanity buzz saw" is enabled by many in Congress, which has the lowest level of military service in recent history. And they are seeking ways to cut benefits to veterans and active duty military while bilking billions of our tax dollars in no bid contracts to Halliburton and Blackwater (a company providing mercenaries who receive three times the pay as our troops). While enormous sums are diverted to defense contractors, veterans are being asked to pay more out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare. They often wait six months for an appointment and three years or longer to have a medical appeal heard.

Currently, the Veterans Administration is under staffed and under funded by billions of dollars. Rhode Island does not have a state level veteran's department or a budget line item for funding; however, it does tax veterans' retirement income. Most states, such as Florida, do not.

Activated reservists and National Guard members comprise as much as 50% of troop strength in Iraq and Afghanistan but do not receive the same education benefits as their active duty counterparts upon separation from service.

Finally, "John" had 16 years of military service and is one of an estimated 170,000 troops who will be permanently disabled from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This number does not include the 20,000 dead or wounded (missing limbs, sight or spinal damaged.) If John's wife had not been a Navy nurse, he likely would have successfully committed suicide while waiting to see his overworked VA psychiatrist. Given there have been more than 2,000 suicides from those serving in this GWOT and the Bush administration is recalling the inactive reserves to buttress the troops who have been deployed three times to stem a civil war with no short-term solution while cutting homeland security funds, I must ask do you believe a "rapid and responsible" withdrawal has any purposeful meaning? It's time national defense developed a conscience and a real plan to pursue terrorists - not line pockets.

Whitehouse's "Wait & See" Middle East Policy Costs Lives

2006-08-24T10:22:00.000-04:00

Rhode Island's 118,000 veterans and 4,000 guard troops need to know where Democratic U.S. Senate candidates really stands on middle east policies. Their lives are in the balance.

As a business owner, Marine Corps veteran and progressive Democrat challenger for Senator Lincoln Chafee's seat, I believe Sheldon Whitehouse's Iraq war and middle east positions are politically motivated and contribute to loss of life.

Sheldon's "wait and see" platform is confused. This is establishment politics. "Lieberman-light" so to speak. His "rapid and responsible" Iraq position did not emerge until sometime this year. His campaign staff last November was stating Sheldon supported Senator Reed's "stay the course" posture. However, Senator Reed's assessment changed in January of this year after his visit to Iraq. What does "rapid and responsible mean?" Iraq is in a civil war and our military is calling up more troops, not withdrawing, leaving our troops exposed on all sides. They're not going to support one side in this fight. That won't create regional stability. It's sure to break a promise to keeping our troops safe. On the other hand, Sheldon says he backs Bush's stance on Israel and the middle east with thousands of civilians killed and displaced. The only solution is to bring our troops home now and call on Europe and Arab nations to form a buffer to allow Iraq to have individual territories, as provided in their Constitution and as has occurred in the Czech Republic. The alternative is to facilitate a peace on the dime of middle east oil producers who have a vested interest in stability. Our taxpayers have had enough. A successful war on terrorism begins with better domestic security and supporting our troops and veterans.

Whitehouse has declined a half dozen debate challenges on this issue.

A Wasted Vote in RI’s U.S. Senate Democratic Primary

2006-08-13T10:40:00.000-04:00

Not all media outlets or wealthy candidates are bad. Some really care and believe in fair play. The Democratic National Committee has a slogan, “The road to security – begins with the truth.” I couldn’t agree more. The truth is that media has a responsibility to its shareholders. Is it detrimental to equal and accurate candidate coverage? Arguably, the media has a significant role in name recognition, candidate viability and polling numbers.

Campaigns are big business. The campaign war chest laden for the Lamont – Lieberman brawl in neighboring Connecticut made news and sold lots of advertising. It forced each candidate to spend millions to craft their image and message. The media is the beneficiary. It helps explain why before character or intelligence, the candidate’s bankroll size is publicly weighted so heavily by media. Media will argue money is a measure of the candidate’s viability. I’d counter – viability to whom? This position favors the wealthy and those beholden to special interests’ funds. It certainly isn’t democracy. What of grassroots efforts?

Here in Rhode Island, the Chafee-Laffey primary is the GOP version of the Connecticut battle. By omission the media has left voters with the impression Sheldon Whitehouse is the general election contender against the Republican primary winner. Unchallenged, the establishment party machine plays on this inaccurate perception. This permits the Whitehouse campaign to morph its image by using the best ideas of other candidates.

It’s no wonder why the primary and even general elections have increasingly low voter turnout. What of fact above perception? I’d argue that to a degree the media shares responsibility. Debates are a perfect example. On at least six occasions, Sheldon Whitehouse has declined media invitations to a primary debate. The media could have called his bluff. Hold the debate whether he shows or not. Media acquiesced each time.

Voters are intelligent, but they’re rightfully cynical. They don’t have the power to gain the same special access afforded to wealthy $1,000 contributors. Their power is making solid decisions based on media controlled information. Their power is in their numbers. Will media wait to cover past A/G deals and ethical lapses? This assures another GOP win.

Over 50% of Rhode Island voters are Independents. They’re interested in the candidate more than partisan politics. Those age 55+ are 25% of our population, but they dominate primary voter turnout. Those with 15+ years until retirement worry about education, energy, employment and economic issues. They feel real threats to their eroding retirement security and health care. These issues are not experienced by wealthy politicians. Media is complicit in creating a self-fulfilling prophecy of these prepackaged candidates. We want enduring relationships with working Senators. We must ignore “one night stand” campaign promises. We need to trust our votes to candidates who are “of, for and by the people”.

An Inconvenient Truth: Politics & Lies

2006-08-09T07:58:00.000-04:00

Some say copying good ideas is the sincerest form of flattery. And, in a matter of thinking it can be. In politics it's almost a trademark by a front-runner who has garnered the media's attention. It effectively neutralizes the momentum innovation can produce by an opponent.

In July 2005, our campaign took one of the first public anti-war positions in the nation with a clear exit strategy associated with the Iraqi's voting on their Constitution and government. It foresaw the sectarian violence of Civil War and the possible remedy of creating several nation states instead of a consolidated Iraq. The goal now, as it was then, is to limit loss of life in a war built on a series of lies. Over 80% of those who have been combat veterans (VFW) oppose the Iraq war and our campaign's position was mailed to over 7,000 veterans' households to seek an expression of support and catalyze better ideas for withdrawal.

Within one to four months, Matt Brown and then Sheldon Whitehouse revised their "stay the course" positions to the politically safe, but vanilla position of calling on president Bush for an exit strategy and timeline. Sheldon Whitehouse had no interest in debating the issue when challenged by Matt Brown. He still doesn't, although this has not stopped his campaign of commercials that represent his father's service in the Marines - that will transition by failed memories to imply he had served. It's sly. His new ads call for a withdrawal and address the dated issue of inadequate body armor also tap into the clear anti-war sentiment.

As a combat officer with ten years service in the U.S. Marines, I am fully aware of the impact of extended tours have on our troops and their families. I'm grateful for the support and endorsement of many national veteran and anti-war groups for my candidacy and positions. That they've been co-opted with the help of the less than inquisitive media is unpleasant.

This "wait and see" approach is also reflected in Sheldon Whitehouse's newest press release concerning innovations surrounding foreign and energy policies. Once again, these are issues that were first raised by our campaign last October with increasing levels of detail that culminated in a comprehensive position expressed at our State Democratic Convention. The media has foregone its journalistic responsibility of equal time or inquiry as to whether Sheldon Whitehouse's positions are original or the ideas of his opponent.

John Hazen White Jr. had endeavored to get the U.S. Senate candidates to agree to a debate to highlight our attributes and ideas; however, Sheldon Whitehouse refused to attend. Since then White has commented with clear disdain Whitehouse's avoidance. This denies the public an opportunity to make informed decisions based upon anything else other than carefully scripted commercials purchased from the media. The simplest solution is to visit our two campaign web sites and determine for yourself our positions and when published.

Sheldon Whitehouse: www.whitehouseforsenate.com
Carl Sheeler: www.carlsheeler.com

Could this be the inconvenient truth of shallowness relying on the resources of rich elites and labor unions to buy office? Real leaders independently think, discuss and act.

America's Nation-Building & Peace-Keeping Options

2006-08-07T11:44:00.000-04:00

Some people appear to anguish more over their property taxes than their income taxes. It's human nature. In the case of making mortgage payments most include loan repayments, property taxes and insurance "impounds" with annual updates to cover shortages and increases. In this way, the $50 (or higher) monthly payment "bump" on our property taxes seem less severe to some. It's still $600 in annual take home pay and equates to gross salary of $1,000 BEFORE taxes and withholdings... and then there's next year and so on.

This brings us to those taxes and withholdings. By now many of us are aware that the greatest issue impacting the nature of collection and expenditure of our income taxes is the Iraq War. This is compounded by the irresponsible wealth tax cuts since 2001 which primarily benefit the top 1% of American households with $750,000 or more (much, much more) in gross income.

Until we recognize that OUR elected officials have made these choices which clearly do not reflect the majority of wants and needs of working Americans, we enable them by our votes (or lack of voting) to waste our tax dollars as they please. I'm tired of the one-night stand of broken election promises. We must demand enduring relationships for the common good.

It begins by our restored hope in America. This means our taxes are better spent on domestic priorities like security (police, fire, border patrol). It means investment in our future - kids' education K-College (or vocational education). It means healthier families with national single payer health care. It means separating our foreign and energy policies, so energy companies and oil rich countries don't dictate our future. This straightforward agenda makes America more secure and is the proto-type for other nations to be built -- a source of pride for us all.

There's an economically more feasible and enduring solution in the Middle East, which has become center stage in our media and in our lives directly or indirectly. It allows for a timely and honorable withdrawal of our troops. We acknowledge the relevancy of the United States’ and Europe's economic agenda during the past two centuries in fostering the Arab civilian anger and indignity. We accept our roles in facilitating a Euro-Arab coalition to provide conflict buffers and promote an agenda that is not solely sectarian or theocratic. Rather, it places greater emphasis on sovereign respect and something more than just human survival. This dilutes militant faction influence and emphasizes a transition to nation-state defense forces where government leaders are held accountable - not ideologies and strategies. The same could be said for the U.S. until we vote to change our leaders.

The alternative is the continued loss of American lives and diverted resources (tax dollars) and the real possibility that China, which has cultivated foreign goodwill, simply continues to expand its influence and power in many of these same Latin and Middle Eastern countries. That is not the American dream many of us fought and died to protect for our future generations.

Healthcare: Win-Win for All

2006-07-31T11:52:00.000-04:00

A number of my good friends, ranging from students to business owners in their 20's through 60's, have no health coverage. This past year I increased my family's deductible from $0 to $500 to keep the premiums down. Low and behold I needed several CT scans and in came the bill for $500 after insurance paid the rest. That's after a $13,000 annual health insurance premium. Certainly, nothing close to the coverage many of our elected officials receive.

Many people I have spoken to on the bus these past weeks have shared how they put off going to the doctor (this often includes their kids too) due to the cost. Later they have an emergency room visit that could have been avoided with less costly preventative care.

It's time to revisit single payer national healthcare. Large corporations win because this is a significant operating cost for them for active and retired employees. If this expense could be cut, their profits would increase and in turn they'd contribute more taxes and would keep more jobs in the U.S. These employees would also be contributing taxes, too.

Small businesses win because healthcare is often prohibitive and attracting and retaining quality employees is impacted by this fact. Municipalities and property owners benefit from this because many workers and retirees are covered by fairly generous and costly healthcare.

The uninsured would benefit because they would more likely seek less costly preventative treatment as discussed briefly above. In the end their emergency visit treatments are paid by the taxpayers or policy holders in higher premiums.

Medical providers benefit because they can provide the best level of care and be less swayed by insurers who dictate level of care based on profitability, not patients' needs. They also benefit because a more streamlined program is likely to have fewer errors and their liability coverage would be reduced accordingly. This is one of the largest expenses most practitioners face and a core reason for leaving the medical profession.

The fact is that when we total all active and retired local, county, state and federal employees (including military and veterans), medicare and medicaid, taxpayers are shouldering half of the annual U.S. healthcare burden in one manner or another. But this is very, very inefficient with redundant record keeping among hundreds of insurers often causing medical practitioners to spend upwards of 50% of their time performing wasteful and error prone administrative functions versus practicing medicine.

Experts in this field estimate that 30% of costs or more could be eliminated just by streamlining and consolidating. The second and third largest expenses are reporting errors and fraud estimated to be as much as 20% of healthcare costs. However, one of the most manageable costs is the prescribing and over-prescribing of drugs and treatments.

The drug industry has one of the highest profit margins among all businesses as can be plainly seen by the run up by 500% of the "new" Medicare system in the past few years.

Twenty percent profit is not unusual and patents are often extended so lower cost generics can't be manufactured. If these companies were to competitively bid for government purchases their costs would drop 20% or more. Our government can influence cooperation because these companies need Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approval for new drugs to come onto the market, so playing ball makes sense to them. Otherwise, we can purchase from foreign drug manufacturers.

Large corporations and taxpayers share a common win-win goal that only two powerful entities, through their rich lobbying groups have tried to stop for over twenty years: the drug and insurance companies who might see their profits erode instead of working towards the common good and still earning high profits. It's time we sit down at the table and keep single payer national healthcare on it instead of greed. After all almost everybody wins. Isn't that just common sense?

Would you connect with a $350/hr bird watcher?

2006-07-25T12:15:00.000-04:00

In today's Providence Journal, reporter Scott McKay, a Whitehouse supporter, references Sheldon Whitehouse's effort to recondition his patrician "legacy" image to better connect with our working families.

Time to return to finishing school... there just aren’t too many folks who are going to say... "Yeah, that's the guy I want to have a beer with... he says he's bored earning $350 an hour peering into his binoculars looking out the window of his office earning more in two hours than over half the state's population takes home in a week."

Be who you are Sheldon. There's no shame in being born into privilege, but for God's sake don't act as if you'd invite me or most of my buds for a slice after the primary. I saw how you even dismissed Myrth after her righteous win. I don't have a membership to the Newport Yacht Club, the University Club and my kids go to public school. There's no separate trust fund and my family has known the pain of inadequate health care and social security protection.

I consider it a compliment that most of what you're now saying was long ago posted at my website. That is the sincerest form of flattery.

1,000,000 hits, Energy & Israel

2006-07-23T09:00:00.000-04:00

Since the beginning of our U.S. Senate campaign, we've stressed the importance of separating our nation's energy and Middle East policies. It is clear Iran is using its influence on Syria's and Lebanon's militant factions to stir up the swarm of bees, knowing full well Israel would make a responsive strike. Iran, once a U.S. ally, is doing this to provoke the U.S. influence on Iran's desire to have a nuclear reactor.

Remember when President Bush pledged he'd take all means necessary, including military action, to take down terrorists and the countries harboring them? The misguided Iraq invasion is replete with strategic and tactical blunders that have cost unnecessary loss of lives. Bush has reduced our forces in Afghanistan while the Taliban regains ground and Osama bin Laden remains free. Remember when Bush named Iran and North Korea as the "axis of evil"? North Korea has fired its long range missiles and Iran has the U.S. over a barrel of oil, so to speak. So now what? Tough talk by provoking and alienating other countries and selecting the likes of Bolton for the U.N. speaks volumes about what's needed to bring stability. Our military isn't big enough to plug all the dikes this administration is creating.

It's one thing for the United States to support Israel's right to remain a free and safe democratic nation. However, our lopsided diplomatic efforts with Israel's neighbors have been primarily guided by our need for foreign oil. Our nation's economy and perceived safety are directly tied to our military presence in the Middle East due to this dependence. Since last year our campaign anticipated a civil war between the Shias and Sunnis, forcing our continued presence in Iraq and our economic vulnerability associated with the volatility of oil prices.

So much for walk softly and carrying a big stick. . . More like bull in a china shop with bravado putting others' lives on the line. We need "great communicators" who understand implied threats are often more powerful, especially, when support exists among other nations.

We do need vigilance and stronger domestic security. We do not need so called leaders and their supporters playing chicken hawk. We need a balance in our Congress that stresses building bridges across her aisles and across nations. There's a time to unholster one's pistol, flip the safety, then cock the hammer and there's a time when it's not done. Wise leaders know the conditions and consequences, especially when others are at risk.

Our campaign's bold vision was not just opposition of the Iraq war and how it has been prosecuted, but focus on how we can restore hope and honor through more prudent alternative energy, economic, foreign and domestic security policies. This might be why our website (www.carlsheeler.com) has received 1,000,000 hits and counting. It's a fact those political polls seem to be missing. It's time for leadership... for a change.

Why I am running for U.S. Senate (D-RI)… why now?

2006-07-17T09:40:00.000-04:00

If Lincoln Chafee had run as a Democrat or Independent, I might not be running for U.S. Senate. I’d raise my kids, be a good husband, neighbor and friend. If any among all the ethical, high quality people we have in Rhode Island had run for U.S. Senate, as a Democrat, I’d remain a business owner, teach college courses, write articles and do what most middle class families do.

But instead, we have Sheldon Whitehouse. I have no ax to grind with Sheldon. In fact, he has called me “very likeable” and I appreciate it. But, I’ve done my opposition research as his Republican opponents have. His past lapses will undoubtedly be raised by the media and/or his opponent(s) to the detriment of providing bipartisan balance in our U.S. Senate.

Too few elected officials are willing to break ranks from partisan posturing so the job gets done on behalf of the public. I expect our elected to be selfless in their public service even above partisanship. No one, no matter how wealthy, well connected or Ivy League educated is above our laws. If an elected official, even the President, ignores the law I expect (s)he to be held accountable. We need folks who are willing to preserve, protect and defend our Constitution. Our Constitution is what allows us to be uniquely American.

I’m running because when Sheldon first announced, his campaign wanted to “stay the course” in Iraq. I’m running because his campaign has repeatedly attacked Chafee and the Republican Party instead of offering real solutions to the bread and butter issues we working families experience. I chalked that up to his being born into privilege. The “disconnect” between those from working and wealth income happens all too often.

I’m running because history shows when candidates receive contributions from the wealthy and special interests, they seldom provide access to folks like you and me. This is why our youth, our elderly, our struggling, our military personnel and veterans receive a lower priority than lobbyists for health care, insurance, energy and education.

Those who originally signed our Constitution recognized that in order to avoid the dire results of too much power in too few hands, our government needed to have checks and balances. They recognized there would be conflicts and classes of people. They understood the influence of religion and law. They understood people wanted their rights protected and our government’s role to be limited to ensure our pursuits of prosperity, freedom and justice.

I’m running because in order to serve well and decently one leads by putting the public first. We’ll have our differences locally and globally, but a statesman finds the common good to build bridges. Now is the time to honor our troops and bring them home. Now is the time to lower fuel costs by improving our Middle East and energy policies. Now is the time to engage faith-based, civic, business and academic organizations to find value based solutions to quality education, family security and health care. One million dollar a month political ads are great – but enduring bipartisan solutions are better. It’s time.

The Canary in the American Coal Mine

2006-07-12T11:30:00.000-04:00

Does it hurt you if you can't see or smell it? Many a miner has died from high levels of poisonous gas they did not know existed. Canaries were used as warning signs to alert miners to leave the mine, as they'd otherwise die from the poison.

I've been riding RIPTA and will continue to do so through the remainder of July on as many routes as possible listening to Rhode Island's residents from Burrillville to Westerly. I learned a long time ago while in the Marines, as well as the business world, that the best source of information is often unfiltered from the front line.

The canary is not feeling well. I have spoken to hundreds of folks in their 50's and above who worry how they're going to pay for their retirement. They're concerned about the cost of housing, health care and social security. They remember when they were younger and a single earner's wage was sufficient to keep a roof over your head and food on the table until at least 1980. Inflation, tax burden shifts and pay fairness has eroded since this era. Theirs is a mixed mood of resentment and resignation targeted at both political parties.

Those in their mid 30's to late 40's are worried about the future of their kids' education, having a living wage that goes far enough and whether their taxes are providing them good government that represents their concerns and needs. Over 75% are opposed to the Iraq War and the waste of tax dollars that could keep our schools from being left behind.

Those below 30 are frustrated with what we're doing to their future. They have friends in Iraq - a war they do not believe in. They see little opportunity for advancement as the costs of college make higher education and better jobs seem unattainable. Many ride the bus because of $3.00-plus a gallon gas, car payments, auto insurance and maintenance are unaffordable. What they're really attuned to is the divisiveness of politics from immigration to Iraq while their present and future are being gutted by those passing the burden of our environment and fiscal irresponsibility onto them.

The Wickford Art Festival offered similar perspectives by artists who sell to the solid middle class and more affluent who would typically have discretionary funds to make purchases to decorate their homes. There was a general sense that fewer sales were made and there were more lookers than buyers. While speaking with people who had the means to take the day, week or month off on Block Island, I heard funds are tighter and vacations shorter.

As debt for our federal deficit requires more of our tax dollars to be spent on interest payments versus investment, as pensions are reduced, collapsed or under-funded. As inflation exceeds income growth, America's baby boomers will need to make difficult choices to share in the process that makes our elected officials accountable or watch as the canary slowly loses grasp on its perch. We can do better than working in these conditions, but it does require all of us to pitch in and expect more. That's American "can do".

Inequality Reigns Without Economic Democracy

2006-07-05T13:54:00.001-04:00

Our economic democracy needs to come before our flawed foreign policy. I believe it begins by building bridges and understanding how pay differential and taxes impact the way we feel about ourselves and our communities. These kitchen table social and economic issues ought to have the goal of bringing dignity and equality of opportunity to our working families.

Many know me as the guy with the "Be Patriotic Impeach Bush" and "Fund Our Future, Not Bush's War" billboards along 95. I'm about having the resolve to defend the "essence" of the American dream outlined in our Constitution.

Coming from humble beginnings, being a father of five and a business owner, I know about how social exclusion stymies equality of opportunity. First, nobody is above our laws, otherwise, we permit two sets of rules. This erodes our sense of fairness and trust. Second, if we work hard we should be able to expect those things that create quality of life. The positive impact is healthier and happier families and communities. We would focus on health care, education and public transportation while safeguarding fair economic security.

No doubt we're experiencing an accelerated pace of change within our families, class and nations. We can easily slip into thinking others' needs threaten our own position and security. I'm unhappy with the results. We see many in leadership positions (or those who aspire to be elected) confuse superiority, status and social rank with service. This leads to efforts to concentrate power and increase resources for a few while reducing living standards for the rest of us.

Concentrated power perpetuates a loss of freedoms, exploitation and subordination. It creates the corrosive effects of exclusion, prejudice and discrimination as well as lower levels of trust. It creates imbalance and high costs of conflict over scarce resources. It leads to a "might is right" dominance mentality and ignores the benefits of cooperation, reciprocity and fairness of allocation.

Our moral compass emphasizes we all need to feel valued and appreciated. It is my hope that you insist public debates occur prior to the primaries. It's the only legitimate discourse the public has to ensure some level of democratic disclosure. There have been no fewer than six separate attempts from our campaign and media personalities to engage all candidates with no success to date.

If candidates won't represent themselves in Rhode Island, why would you and I want them representing us in Washington?

Independence Day the Sequel

2006-07-03T12:37:00.000-04:00

No taxation without representation was the cry of young American colonists seeking to make their own mark away from the global superpower England. They declared independence, with Rhode Island first to do so. As a war broke out because the crown could not keep its influence, the British military expected to be welcomed by the rank and file who were neither rich nor land owners with no voting rights. Initially, the general populace held little interest in the battles based more on economics than freedoms. It was not until many a colonist home and person were fouled did the back of their indifference break. These non-natives of this land, but nevertheless tenants of this country, fought, as what the British would deem insurrectionists ("insurgents") who would dare to fight the crown's rule.

A battle of wills and attrition was marked by a war which gradually lost the support of those who would remain proud to be called English. They saw colonists as fanatic, godless terrorists who dared to fight unconventionally. Eventually, with the aid of the French, the war was won and our Constitution was drafted within a decade. Remarkable how history can repeat itself, but the cast of characters evolves and the events are written to suit the combatants with much literary license taken.

I am proud to be an American - less so of those who represent my community and my family. They no longer speak for me. Many no longer remember the oath to preserve, protect and defend our Constitution. We have a government with so much potential; but ignoring the map our forefathers fought for and left for us to follow is at our own future peril, as was justified when wars between the states were for economic resources other than oil.

All of us risk losing that which we celebrate on July 4, if we are unwilling to defend what it means to be uniquely American. We need the resolve and the courage of our convictions.

Freedom of speech, protection of privacy and individual rights for the greater good, as well as leadership's adherence to our laws is why I served my country as a U.S. Marine. We still pay taxes, but it is clear good government has failed to best use our hard earned dollars to represent what we want: affordable health care, quality education and fairness in the pursuit of economic and social justice. Instead, the de facto monarchy, in absence of real opposition, has waged a war based on exploiting fear, dividing with discrimination and justifying all with lies.

Is it independence if we are not allowed to govern our own future?

Iraq and Taxes with an Apple Smoothie

2006-06-26T08:59:00.000-04:00

Things often are never as they appear. In the case of Iraq, Democrats are upset that the Bush administration knew of General Casey's plan to recommend two combat brigades totaling 7,000 troops to withdraw from Iraq. The better news is that by my recollection, there are about five support personnel for every combat troop, which would imply a withdrawal nearer to 40,000. If this was the case, it would bring the number of U.S. troops in Iraq to about 87,000. My way of thinking it's a win for all who have been pushing for withdrawal so we can reunite families in our country while keeping 40,000 more of our honorable troops from any further harm in an amoral war. It also allows Iraq to pursue its self-determined rule with the U.S. further on the sideline if it is needed. It diminishes the arguments of "we broke it - we fix it" and "stay the course" advocates.

There is also a silver lining that a wholesale burden transfer onto the middle class was lessened as the complete removal of estate tax for those households with $4 million and more was stymied. Who said some election year victories cannot be had? Now the real task is to determine whether our Congress has the fortitude to acknowledge that national single payer health care and high quality public education are two concrete investments that would be viable if we roll back the millionaire tax cuts to pre-2001 levels. In 20 years we'll have an entirely different country with an optimistic future for working and middle class families with these achievements.

Personally, I've been dragging this past week with family, work and campaign responsibilities. I took it easy and my son Erik and I took in Click, the Adam Sandler movie, and the soaked Air Show down at Quonset. When we're under the weather, it's times like this that we feel our vulnerabilities and good fortune to be healthy and to have health insurance. As one who pays for my own family's coverage, I can clearly see the need to ensure we all have access to health care. Thing is, my physician thought a high red cell count in my urine and painful kidneys was a second bout with kidney stones, but the CT scan found no stones. So I swallowed a Barium Sulfate Suspension in an apple smoothie so we can rule out other potential problems. Sheldon Whitehouse is not going to get off that easy!

An Apology to Senator John Kerry for Misinformation

2006-06-20T09:09:00.000-04:00

I offered my apology to Senator Kerry following his appearance at Lt. Governor Charlie Fogarty's campaign headquarters’ grand opening last evening on Atwells Avenue.

During his speech espousing the merits of the Democratic party agenda at the state and national levels, Senator Kerry shared his support for Sheldon Whitehouse. Following Fogarty's speech, Senator Kerry had a chance to meet with me and I introduced myself as the primary opponent of Sheldon Whitehouse. Senator Kerry was visibly stunned to learn that Whitehouse had a challenger and stated, "I was told that Sheldon did not have a primary or an opponent." It had not been my intent to make him uncomfortable and I said to him On behalf of all Rhode Island's Democrats I am very sorry that you were led to believe this. It's simply not true.

Whitehouse was not at the event, but his wife Sandra attended. Makes you wonder who from the Whitehouse family is actually running for office. No word back on my written, hand delivered challenge to him for a series of debates prior to the September 12 primary. If you are a RI voter, give him a call 401-490-8683 or email sheldon@whitehouseforsenate.com , and let him know that a debate is important to you.

A break from politics

2006-06-19T09:22:00.000-04:00

I’ve been pumped up for the past couple of weeks. We have met many wonderful people, young and young at heart, from all over the state. Sure there is some apathy there, but there is a real sense of purpose by others who want to see a change away from establishment band aids. I am especially inspired by the young who are acting on their outrage. Most folks sour on politics use the expression "my vote won't make a difference", but added together the vote not cast is wasted and we have the representation we do because of this. One remedy which would reduce the apathy is lively discourse. I've challenged Sheldon to a debate and he's not willing to find the time. It's time he hears from folks like you.

Today was Father's Day. I often spend the day trying to do as little as possible and take in how our kids are doing, what we could do better and think about my own "old man" who passed away almost ten years ago. It's important to try to get my kids to realize that it's not just a gift card holiday or a function of biology, but about relationships that require time and maintenance. I struggle with this trying to find that precious balance of wearing many hats and seldom having enough time. It dawned on me that we tend to become hardened emotionally as we grow older to better cope with the disappointments life can throw our way; yet, this is exactly the last thing we want to do. It shuts out our bond with others, especially those between us and ourchildren. It occurred to me that is exactly what's wrong with politics - we talk policies, but we haven't overcome the distrust many feel towards most politicians.

Maybe we should take more breaks and restore the feelings and emotional connections that allow for trust to be rekindled. Are we all that different from our kids? Seems not.

Authenticity & Likeability Can't Be Bought

2006-06-13T14:09:00.000-04:00

Last evening I spoke before the Providence Democratic Committee. Given there are 15 wards in the city, turnout was significant. Usually, I'd talk about bold visions to stimulate the state's economy, increase housing affordability, access to quality health care and education for all families and communities. By in large, with some personal edits, many of the Democratic candidates express similar sentiments and wish to end the war in Iraq and foreign oil dependence.

It occurred to me after a D.C. representative working at our State Democratic Party HQ stated (before I spoke) he was among eight paid organizers to help get Charlie Fogarty and Sheldon Whitehouse elected, there wasn't even the semblance of democracy in this process to help many other local and state candidates in their races. It's referred to as "a fix" by any other name. Sheldon was in another state raising funds. He did not have to be there to get the nod. I'm guessing this is one reason why the state party executive director has chosen to leave her post. She is hard working and a very, very ethical woman.

Instead, it was more important to share what people want from their elected officials - hope, compassion, understanding and action. I don't think you can buy that no matter how many commercials you pay for with wealthy contributors' funds. Being real is the glue that keeps us united. It's what makes us like and trust people.

So I decided to honor Ezekial and Maria from St. Fatima in Cumberland. They are a couple with 63 years of marriage under their belt who I met on Sunday before the Portuguese parade. I decided to honor my Director of Women and Minority Issues, Ingrid Ardaya. With much courage, she came here from Bolivia with her two young children over 20 years ago and struggled to raise them and keep them safe. This is why I go to so many churches; because we all want to keep and restore our faith. Faith and life are fragile.

This past year I have had the privilege of witnessing our Venezuelan foreign exchange student, Estefania, show the kind of courage to transition into and learn our culture, all while mastering our language and making the honor roll at high school. She is well regarded among her peers in anything but a diverse part of the state. She inspired me.

So does Jim who introduced me to the exchange student program. He had the recent misfortune of having a student accuse him of a felony theft. He lost his job, was removed in cuffs from his home with not even a previous parking ticket and has spent thousands in legal fees. Then there's Billy, a very good friend of mine whose mom was just discovered to have days to live with excruciating pain from fatal bone. She will be living with Billy, who is himself impaired from a tragic accident.

This is just how fine the line can be in our lives - whether it's one paycheck short of financial distress or one's reputation or physical health. The real question is this: when it's all that fragile who would really care for you and your family? That's who I'd like. That's who'd get my vote.

Education: A Community Commitment

2006-06-11T12:05:00.000-04:00

As each town and city works their finances to cover the direct and indirect costs of public schooling - the battle lines are being drawn -- again. Perhaps it's time to consider broader solutions to the same old problems.

The old argument: The quality of education does not correspond to the level of compensation educators receive. This is both an objective and subjective statement. What does good look like, compared to what and based on what measures and for whom?

What's really being said: Why do teachers/administrators receive a relatively high salary, benefits and retirement compared to other similarly educated individuals in the private sector? The level of our children’s learning often does not seem to be worth what we/you/I are paying in property taxes.

Old response: The labor unions negotiated these contracts in good faith with the municipalities hired and elected officials. The quality of a child's education is a shared commitment between parent, teacher and child. Parents need to be involved. More (tax payer) money for schools translates to higher property values. Conversely, under-performing schools tend to stagnate property values. "Don't you care about the children?"

Acknowledgment: Education is a labor intensive profession, which means the greatest cost will be compensation. It's reasonable some metric of compensation, performance and market factors ought to be weighed. This is true for most fields. Otherwise, property owners will be squeezed for higher property taxes at a rate well in excess of the personal growth of their income with no assurance of a higher level of student performance commensurate with financial increases. In other words, does more money mean better performance?

The old paradigm: Federal level mandates create measures that may be too inflexible to allow for improvements given the fact that different communities have different challenges. The common issue is that inadequate federal dollars are being received to create improvements and relieve the pressure on property owners with the state passing the political "hot potato" to the local municipalities. There are many redundant districts and an unwillingness to merge them to achieve certain cost savings due to some objections of loss of local control and employment.

The new shared commitment: If we acknowledge that public education is one of the rare opportunities to invest in our future, it stands to reason we all benefit when this is an investment that provides a level of return with which most of us are comfortable. Are property taxes the best and most equitable manner to pay for most of the costs of public education? Do local small and large businesses, social and civic organizations benefit from having a home grown, locally educated future work force? It stands to reason keeping our best and brightest within our communities and state is the larger goal. This is not a passive investment where we pay taxes and have somebody else push our kids through, but an active one where local, state and federal commitments are created.

A better solution? Alternative funding through the creation of state and federal tax credits for citizens and business donors to invest in a pool for public education fund is needed. The creation of a national lottery where net proceeds are distributed on a periodic basis while applying a formula of ticket sales per state and the population of public education attendees by state would also provide financial relief with no new taxes.

District level faith, civic and government based "enterprises" could be created for after-school mentoring to accommodate dual wage earner and single parent households. It could be supported by local businesses which would receive recognition/support for their investment in a future pool of employees and entrepreneurs. Undoubtedly, communities will create optimal models with high performing results that can then be replicated.

What remains to be seen is whether our governments, union leaders, businesses, chambers of commerce, places of faith, teachers, parents and students will be up to the challenge. I have confidence they will; if it's a shared community commitment for building our future.

The "Decider" vs. the Fourth Estate

2006-06-05T10:12:00.000-04:00

Have you had enough? The very fabric of our Constitution is in jeopardy. It's being frayed article by article. The real injustices are the sham "issues" that so easily distract those who would prefer reality TV over reality without the television. This administration wants you to save our flag from burning while it's shredding our Constitution.

"Stay the course" in Iraq conservatives refuse to acknowledge four main points:

The reasons for our occupation keep on changing.
The role of our troops is not nation building - a Euro-Arab coalition can achieve this and would help defuse the escalating conflict, while save lives and our tax dollars now, not later .
The profiteering by a handful of companies, their executives and investors is blood money and the primary cause for new job growth by a federal government applying largesse while using foreign debt.
The human body and mind can only take so many deployments to Iraq. Our elected officials ignore the tens of thousands who have lost their lives or no longer function the way they once did. It shows more courage to regroup and protect families from future damage by this foreign policy fiasco - a buzz saw of humanity. Where is this courage?

The interwoven lies used for this war are designed to confuse and dissuade detractors from challenging this administration and asking the questions: What became of Osama bin Laden? Why aren't we holding the Saudi royal family responsible, since it was their oil wealth funding and 13 countrymen who comprised the majority of 9/11 terrorists? Why has Al Qaeda and the Taliban grown stronger in Afghanistan, while we withdraw troops from there?

Our Internet and phone providers are violating our privacy rights by mining data. This includes monitoring communications to and from the media. Does this not smell of McCarthyism, Nixon and Hoover spying for political, not national security reasons? We now have an Air Force General (who was in charge of the NSA) as the Director of the CIA. General Hayden will undoubtedly exercise strong powers to restrict and monitor our communications on the internet. This could effectively close all sources of independent information. The FBI had traditionally been responsible for domestic issues.

U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzalez suggests the Executive Decider Bush, has the right - in all things. In a case of civil rights and jurisprudence abuse, U.S. citizen Jose Padilla has been incarcerated for over two years. Because he is being called an "enemy combatant", he is completely unprotected by our laws. How easily could this be done to any one of us?

Bush, the "Decider," is a divider. He's not a "uniter". His brand of supposed Christian values of peace and goodwill apply only if you're white and super wealthy. If you're gay, or from a working or middle class family you're supposed to ignore his effort to permanently reduce tax revenues another few trillion dollars more by making estate tax cuts permanent. This administration expects cowardice and division to reign while it tells you that only heterosexual unions are wholesome while 50% of them will end up divorce. This administration expects you to blame undocumented immigrants for our financial woes, not super sized corporate greed or wasteful government spending.

We (of, for and by) the people want fairness in exchange for our shared responsibility. Whistle blowers to and from the Fourth Estate who expose the depth and breadth of these disasters are being told that “national security” prevents responses to questions Americans should demand to have answered.

Good thing we still have people who are willing to fight for the truth – too bad they seem to be in the minority.

La ciudadanía no es un problema liberal, es patriótico.

2006-05-30T18:51:00.000-04:00

La ciudadanía no es un problema liberal, es patriótico.

No es liberal esperar responsabilidades por nuestra presencia en Irak. Son nuestras vidas y nuestros dólares de impuestos. No es liberal seguir y capturar terroristas con el fin de querer tener nuestras fronteras seguras, los puertos y un público seguro. La seguridad doméstica debe incluir primero adecuadas detectores de fuego, el rescate de emergencia y la aplicación de la ley. Seguridad en los vecindarios y coaliciones internacionales que eviten las amenazas a nuestra seguridad. No es liberal reemplazar el temor y la ansiedad con la esperanza.

No es liberal adherir a los ideales de nuestros antepasados, la libertad y la búsqueda de la felicidad y la prosperidad. No es liberal adherir a creencias judeocristianas el cuidado generoso de nuestros prójimos. Nuestra Constitución y sus bases aceptan estas creencias. No es liberal seguir los ideales humanitarios de la justicia, la salud y la educación. Nuestras políticas exteriores e interiores reclaman para seguir tales metas.

No es liberal desafiar los actos de las grandes corporaciones ni de los grandes y poderosos egoístas cuya agenda se basa sobre el temor, la ignorancia y la discriminación de otros. Qué hizo a los Estados Unidos la nación más grande en la tierra, fue su liderazgo compasivo. No fue el liberal ni conservador. Pero se corrompió cuando una minoría pequeña diluyo y manipulo la verdad. Se hizo en Irak y se esta haciendo otra vez con el asunto de la Inmigración.

A casi cinco años del 9/11, más de 60% de la cantidad estimada de 10 a 12 millones de inmigrantes llegaron a los EE.UU. de manera ilegal. Esto sugiere que nuestra seguridad doméstica es tristemente inadecuada. La construcción de paredes no es la respuesta. Nuestra gran nación debe estar construyendo una “Coalición de las Américas”. Esto creará más seguridad para nosotros en nuestro Hemisferio Occidental. Ayudará la dirección económica y humanitaria razón por la cual la mayoría viene a los Estados Unidos.

Lo que no resolverá el asunto de la inmigración es la deportación. Esto traerá mayores problemas para ambos. Identificar, localizar, detener, procesamiento y deportar a 2.4 millones de personas que han residido aquí por menos de dos años costará decenas de mil millones de dólares – y más allá de los costos significaría deportar a personas que ya forman parte de la ciudadanía, aprenden nuestro idioma, trabajan duramente para un sueldo justo, pagan sus impuestos y alcanzan una educación.

¿Así que a quien se parece esta persona? ¿Cómo prevenimos nosotros la búsqueda y el ataque a ilegales pero decentes hispanos, portugueses, africanos y asiáticos? ¿Qué será de la propiedad de aquellos deportados y sus parientes legales?

Esos que hayan estado en los EE.UU. por 24 o 60 meses tendrían que girar hacia ellos mismos y pagar una multa de más de $2.500. A ellos se les podrá ser otorgado la documentación de trabajador una vez que hayan pagado los impuestos atrasados y que estén en la capacidad de hablar inglés. Ellos podrían aplicar para llegar a ser ciudadanos, pero primero tendrían que volver a su país de origen.

Estas medidas los llevarán a la desesperación, la anarquía y la explotación. Dividirán a las familias que trabajan duramente, que asisten a nuestros lugares de culto y tienen tanto ingresos como egresos pero que no reúnen los beneficios necesarios. Abrigar o ayudar al indocumentado sería un crimen grave pagado con el encarcelamiento y multa.

La única parte de la medida existente del Senado que tiene sentido es la de tener mas de a $20.000 multa y tres años en la prisión por emplear a un inmigrante sin documentar. Llámele liberal, pero las provisiones para la ciudadanía son contradictorias con las cual América podría o debería ser.

Carl Sheeler, ex - Marine, dueño de negocio y parte de la segunda generación Americana, es un candidato demócrata para El senado de los EE.UU. en Rhode Island.

Citizenship is not a liberal issue – It’s a patriotic one!

2006-05-30T09:55:00.000-04:00

It’s not liberal to expect accountability for our presence in Iraq. It’s our lives and our tax dollars. It’s not liberal to pursue and capture terrorists and to want secure borders, ports and a safe public. Domestic security must include adequate first responders, such as fire, emergency rescue and law enforcement. Neighborhood watch and international coalitions help fight threats to our security. It’s not liberal to replace fear and anxiety with hope.

It’s not liberal to adhere to the ideals of our forefathers of life, liberty and pursuit of happiness and prosperity. It’s not liberal to adhere to Judeo-Christian beliefs of selfless caring for other fellow humans. Our Constitution and places of worship are built upon these beliefs. It’s not liberal to pursue humanitarian ideals of fairness, health and education. Our domestic and foreign policies claim to pursue such goals.

It’s not liberal to challenge acts by large corporations or powerful special interests whose self-serving agenda is based upon fear, ignorance or discrimination. What made the United States the greatest nation on earth is her compassionate leadership. It’s not liberal or conservative. But it becomes corrupted when a small minority dilutes and manipulates the truth. It was done in Iraq and is being done again with the issue of Immigration.

In the almost five years since 9/11, more than 60% of the estimated 10 to 12 million immigrants arrived in the U.S. against our laws. This suggests our domestic security is woefully inadequate. Building walls isn’t the answer. Our great nation ought to be building a “Coalition of the Americas”. This will create more safety for us in our Western Hemisphere. It will help address the economic and humanitarian reasons why most come to the United States.

What won’t resolve the immigration issue is deportation. This will drive people further underground. Identifying, locating, arresting, processing and deporting the 2.4 million who have resided here for under two years will cost tens of billions of dollars – more than the costs if these people were given a path to citizenship, learn our language, work hard for a fair wage, pay their taxes and attain an education.

So what does this person look like? How do we prevent illegal search and seizure of folks of Hispanic, Portuguese, African and Asian decent? What becomes of deportees’ property and their legal relatives?

Those in the U.S. for 24 to 60 months would also have to turn themselves in and pay a fine of up to $2,500. They could be granted documented worker status once they have paid back taxes and could speak English. They could apply to become citizens, but would have to return to their country of origin first.

These measures will lead to desperation, lawlessness and exploitation. It’ll divide hard working families who attend our places of worship and have income withholdings, but collect no benefits. Harboring or abetting the undocumented would be a felony subject to imprisonment and fine.

The only part of the existing Senate measure that makes sense is the up to $20,000 fine and three years in prison for employing an undocumented immigrant. Call it liberal, but the provisions for citizenship are inconsistent with what America can and should be.

Dominican Mother's Day

2006-05-28T11:49:00.000-04:00

My trusty campaign right hand, Ingrid Ardaya reminds me it is Dominican Mother's Day on May 28. For those with moms back home here's a website to send that special some one flowers:

http://www.flora2000.com/Shopping/Dominican-Republic.asp?occassion=PT13TjJrak0=&country=

For those whose moms are young or young at heart, some might appreciate musica de Merengue or maybe a little more casual Bachata. Just don't bring home Juan Luis Guerra, and Johnny Ventura because dad might not understand!

Those who really want to give mom a treat can let her relax and prepare some Sancocho. A recipe is below. What ever you do... enjoy!

Ingredients:

4LB fresh pork chops(cut into pieces)
3LB fried chicken(cut into pieces)
2LB potatoes
1/2LBwhite yautia
1/2LB yellow yautia
1LB auyama
2LB mapuye
2LB name
4 corn(halved)
2 green pepper(chopped)
2 large onion(sliced)
4 cloves garlic(crushed)
4 green plantains
4 ciantrico(vegetable)
4 cilantro leaves(vegetable)
5 tablespoons oil
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon spice
3 tablespoons vinegar

Directions:

Marinate the meat for a few hours with all the ingredients. Sauté meat in the oil. Dice vegetables. Stir with the meat. Add some water and cook until the soup thickens. Put in some salt and vinegar or the squeezed orange juice. If any kind of vegetables are not available, try whatever’s available.

Oh, Say Can You See?

2006-05-27T08:35:00.000-04:00

In 1890, the U.S. Census reflected that America was a country with a population of 62.6 million people. In 1892, the New York City Ellis Island Immigration Station opened. Over the next several decades the more than 12 million immigrants arriving to America were greeted by the vision of our Statute of Liberty . . . Lady Liberty’s pedestal was viewed by many arriving to America, including my foreign born grandparents. The inscription on that pedestal reads…

“Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me.”

I believe this passage was motivated by Thomas Jefferson when he wrote a unifying concept in our Declaration of Independence….

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.”

The phrase that catches my eye is “…their just powers from the consent of the governed…” I believe our Constitution’s preamble of “We The People…” embodies this sentiment.

These historical events are considered as we move from Memorial Day to Independence Day. I wrestle with the divisive confusion and fear associated with our presence in Iraq abroad and how just and fair we are when addressing the domestic issue of Immigration.

How do we rationalize the pursuit of democratic justice abroad when our very nation has become more divided and afraid than any time in recent history? Our Iraq war and occupation of this 2,000+ year old Byzantine empire has caused hundreds of thousands of their middle class people to flee their birthplace. In the pursuit of this reckless foreign policy we have undermined and created more fear in our own middle class. It is clear to most that blatant favoritism exists for a small group of wealthy and powerful elite. This same group has made Immigration a very divisive issue. We now fight among ourselves and direct our frustrations at the most vulnerable people who are only pursuing the same dreams our foreign born forefathers pursued. Can we see all our futures and fortunes are bridged by what the more numerous “we the people” will decide?

Support Our Troops

2006-05-26T10:37:00.000-04:00

This Memorial Day as we honor our troops, we might just want to consider that it is time to transition our own fears and anxieties into concrete actions.

Might I suggest that supporting our troops needs to be more than displaying a magnetic ribbon? It is time to demand that they are returned to their families right now, not a "rapid and responsible" withdrawal beginning by year's end. Anything else is a political move geared around the election concerns of candidates and does nothing to preserve the lives of those who are currently in harm's way. They've done their duty. It time this duty is shared with a coalition of European-Arab nations to place self-governance in the hands of the Iraqi people.

Another local act is to call on our members of the general assembly (link to find your elected officials) and ask them to update the beautiful Garden of Heroes monument just off the right rear corner of the statehouse. (link to Iraq casualties by state) It lists the fallen since our GWOT began. My brother in arms, CPL St. Germain, USMC and several others with Rhode Island roots have not been added to this monument.

Have a safe weekend.

Something extra for Memorial Day

2006-05-24T09:51:00.000-04:00

I found as a Marine leader that the greatest impact one has is when there is a real connection with individual people. Might I suggest that while celebrating Memorial Day this weekend that you select one person who either gave the ultimate sacrifice or has since passed and honor him or her?

It personalizes and humanizes.

I have never met LTC William J. Games, USA, but he was a resident of Providence, Rhode Island, a Korean War veteran and recipient of the Silver Star. The Silver Star is awarded to a person who, while serving in any capacity with the U.S. military, is cited for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force. He served with the 9th Infantry Regiment 2nd Infantry Division. U.S. Senator Claiborne Pell had submitted a bill on his behalf to obtain relief from overpayment of income taxes. He was also honored by our General Assembly in 2004.

I will give honor to him as my personal connection to those who have come before us.

Semper Fi’

Carl

Debate: Are two Whitehouses in DC one too many?

2006-05-17T07:51:00.000-04:00

We Rhode Islanders are much smarter than most political candidates are willing to give us credit for. Sure, we've grown accustomed to their "wartless" resumes and "feel good" depictions of what they'll do if they're sent to Washington in 60 second sound bites as Sheldon has done. How about being honest that as long as Bush is in office, the lobbyists control Congress and we're in Iraq, we'll have to wait for a representative "of and for the people”?

I'm running, in part, because I've had enough of wealthy candidates saying (s)he cares about our troops, the elderly, the middle class and the working poor because DC advisors want you to say this...

Have you ever been in my shoes below the poverty line or working full-time at two jobs to pay for college or buy a home? Do you have an older family member who worked his entire life with no retirement, forcing him to live with a son/daughter?

Eroding health care and public education are not your personal worries while I have family relatives without health coverage. I shell out nearly $13,000 a year to cover my own family's insurance. I wonder how I will pay my own student loans and share in the cost of my five kids' college education. How long am I expected to pay double digit property tax increases for my kids' public education while books are outdated by twenty years or more?

I don't fault a wealthy politician's fortune to have been born into privilege, but please don't share that "you feel my pain". Trumpeting the accomplishment of the ambassador father is like a spoiled teenager bragging about dad's big house. It's dad's achievement, not the kid's.

Wouldn't you have a better shot of convincing the elder population, where you have very soft polling results, if you had been spending more time amongst this community during your past twenty years? Bucking the insurance and pharmaceutical industries to resurrect Medicare Plan D, when that horse is out of the gate, ignores the "why" taxpayers are paying five times more than the $100 billion claimed by this administration.

Proposing tax increases for the wealthy when most of your out-of-state, $1,000 a plate contributors are wealthy has a hollow ring. How about establishing a legacy by calling for the reduction of middle class taxes? How do you reconcile this promise with support from the rank and file in unions who might earn this royal sum in two weeks?

You were the A/G over a decade ago.... you decided to run for the state's CEO/governor....

You lost to Myrth York in the primary and didn't lend support to her campaign... and, for better or for worse, we have Carcieri as our governor.

The public has a memory and the other wealthy candidates have invested $200,000 doing their opposition research making being divorced or filing for personal bankruptcy pale in comparison to what they will undoubtedly expose during these elections. So, I'm supposed to vote for you to represent me because I can trust you more than Bush?

Nope, two Whitehouses in Washington is one too many.

Going Beyond Ourselves - Story of SSGT Dale James Kelly Jr.

2006-05-16T09:34:00.000-04:00

My wife and I have a little ritual most mornings. We talk about yesterday's and today's activities in an effort to coordinate and bring closure. We have some of her questionable coffee that she brews for us in the morning. We also read the paper while trying to maintain a sense of humor; especially making a distinction between the often-so-sad-it's- funny news and the funnies section of the paper.

My wife also from time to time reads the obits because there is an ever increasing number of WWII and Korean War veterans whose lives are coming to an end. She also marvels at some of the heroic women who were doing things before the era where there was much public support for these types of individual achievements.

I like when she shares about these folks because inevitably they have one common element - love of family, friends, work associates and neighbors for some kind of singular or multiple selfless acts making life better for others past their very own existence. When we get older I suspect many of us question whether we have done enough. I know I often do.

This morning in particular she was emotionally impacted by the obituary of Staff Sergeant Kelly, a graduate of Cranston High School who had just renewed his marriage vows after 25 years and soon died thereafter at the age of 48 while serving with the Mountain Infantry in Iraq leaving three children and many family members behind. He was a middle class church, environment and Boy Scout volunteer.

Considering his passing motivates me to go beyond myself not only for our troops in Iraq, but to protect and continue the middle class values reflected by SSGT Kelly's life.

A Tribute To Jim Spooner's Mom and all of The Mothers Out There

2006-05-14T12:52:00.000-04:00

Maybe I'm waxing poetic after attending the state annual meeting for the National Organization of Women (NOW) or taking my nine year old son out to pick some flowers for his mom, but I think it something more.

I never met Jim Spooner's Mom, but I suspect this tribute is fitting. What do we say about a woman who raises a good son? This son served honorably in the military and is active in his community and politics for over 49 years. This son who alone had the courage among 300 people to express his convictions before many of his peers and openly pronounce his support for my U.S. Senate candidacy knowing full well the deciding had been done long before the event ever took place. That's a mom who raised her boy right to be a passionate man who knows his own mind. I can only hope all five of our kids come out this well.

I want to pay tribute to every mother out there whose son and/or daughter is serving in our military and a special thank you for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice by losing a son or daughter. A special honor goes to those mothers in the armed services who may occasionally face the Neanderthal attitude, "if the military had wanted you to have a child we would have issued you one." A special acknowledgment to all the single moms who incredibly manage to raise their kids and juggle the challenges that seem almost too much for even those who enjoy a dual parent household. A special kind word to those moms who somehow balance work and all the domestic duties that call on you 24/7. Your children are well fed, healthy, happy, clean, schooled and capable of thriving in today's challenging world.

Certainly not least, a final tribute to those moms whose maternal instincts to make the world a bit safer, smarter, healthier and more compassionate place when men might forget just why we do what we do. May we honor you for everything you do everyday. Happy Mom's Day.

Populism Trumps Politicians

2006-05-09T08:47:00.000-04:00

Score one for our Sheeler "Had Enough?" team at last night's State Democratic endorsement gathering. Sheldy received the insider nod, but several great things did occur...

First, we received apt attention from the significant crowd of about 300 attendees - mostly strong party loyalists. That might seem like a small thing, but many spoke while other candidates were presenting - Chairman Lynch asked them for quiet. (link to my speech)

Second, our speech received four rounds of applause to include one started by Lynch for my Bring Our Troops Home Now plea. The Projo noted this and my pledge to pursue Bush's impeachment to defend the principles of Our Constitution. The speech's theme was people, before party and politics. It stressed patriotism and leadership with a bold vision for the 21st Century - new energy and high paying job creation as well as new property and middle class tax savings ideas while still funding more robust education programs.

Third, Bob Walsh, NEARI (Education Union) president and strong Whitehouse supporter, made a telling statement. He spoke for what Whitehouse stood, but Sheldy knew he already had the insider nod and did not share these thoughts himself. Walsh stated he knew the Sheeler campaign was gaining strong support because of "likeability" and intelligence, but that the party leaders needed to convince the public to vote for a loyal Democrat. What happened to people, not politics? Bob, you made my evening.

Fourth, Mr. Spooner a 49 year member of the Lincoln Democratic Party spoke out on behalf of my candidacy. He's a veteran, senior citizen and life long Rhode Islander, He stressed the need for bold vision candidates who connect with middle class values, have had military service and were willing to fight for all Rhode Islanders, not just the few.

Fifth, we had several party delegates and town chairs who shared that whatever they might say or do in public, behind the curtain in the poll booth they were going to vote who they believed in. More than several people flat out said "you have my vote".

Sixth, Licht received the insider nod against Weygand for U.S. Senate in 2000. Weygand went on to defeat Licht in the U.S. Senate primary. I like pairs. We can do it.

Support Carl Contribute

It's the Public , Not the Party, First!

2006-05-08T09:15:00.000-04:00

So much for the darling of many Democratic Town Committees – de Ramel. The de Ramel campaign has a point that could be extended to the Whitehouse anointing this evening.

There is a schism within the Democratic Party leadership that is easiest to witness from the outside. It's the (Rhode Island) economy stupid! Remember, you're supposed to connect with all working and middle class families regardless of affiliation. That's what wins general elections. It'll be what's needed to beat the likeable Chafee, too.

It's sad enough that many town and cities did not interview some of the party affiliated candidates. Many did not even take the time to determine the candidates' platforms.

Tenure and quoting vanilla party line trumps leadership for the populist majority. This criteria for endorsement begets the mediocrity that begets public approval ratings in the teens. So much for name awareness; if it's bad, it's still bad.

Sheldy, the endorsement and all its credibility is yours. Add that to your list. Please let the public know why you're avoiding a debate if your candidacy is a sure thing.....

Why I'm running

2006-05-06T10:01:00.000-04:00

My closest friends know me as somewhat introverted. In many ways this is just the opposite of a federal office candidate where the public and media often weigh in on every comment and word. It seems contrary to the image of a Marine combat officer and a public speaker. No doubt the silver lining is a degree of personal humility and empathy towards others.

The public loves winners. They also love underdogs. It's understandable. I strive to do my best every time. Hypocrisy occurs when we expect something that exceeds our own humanity. We should not be disappointed or surprised when many of those who run for and hold elected office are so quick to tell us what we want to hear and not take the promised action. Why can they do this? They often know they're not held accountable.

My favorite analogy is of the wealthy person who is complimented for hitting a home run when he started on third base. And the poor kid who after much hard work cracks one out of the ball park. The later reflects often reflects our hopes and dreams and sense of fairness.

I'm running and it's the hardest thing I've ever done. It strains our personal finances because I also work as a small business owner to pay for the same bills (health insurance, mortgage, car payments, student loans, food and gas) that most everybody else does. It reduces the quality time I have with my wife and kids to make sure they're doing well in school and extracurricular activities. In a way, that is sort of the point. How many of us are not strained or concerned for our futures and/or that of our kids whether we're 18 or 58?

I'm running, because like going into the Marines, I see serving my nation again as my patriotic duty. We're a nation off course. Intuitively, I know I have the tools, humility and wisdom for public service. I have had some tough breaks and good fortune. Sometime in our lives we need to start thinking about making sure the elevator goes all the way down so it raises others up. I think many of us have had enough with politics as usual that have put our families and future at risk and are looking for the nobility of good government of and for the people.

My hope and dream for America is that we will again embrace the dream of a better life for our families, faith and our flag. It starts by knowing that the good and decent and hardworking among us, no matter what walk of life, can represent the majority - not only those of means who more often than not have done a very, very poor job of representing us. We deserve better.

The Solution to Laffey's Problems

2006-05-03T15:09:00.000-04:00

As most know, Mayor Laffey has been doing a commendable job of outlining the tens of billions of dollars in pork that is earmarked by the Republican controlled Congress. I can about guarantee if we placed ten people in a room to come up with ideas where we could better invest our tax dollars, we'd be better off. It takes our elected officials to listen and act.

This issue is nonpartisan because all of these funds are from the taxpayer cookie jar and we get to say (with our votes) what our elected officials will and will not spend our money on - not special interests and not lobbyists. The public also gets to say how much we are taxed and who pays their fair share - not just the wealthiest contributors.

This is where candidates and incumbents run afoul and we let them. The media machine uses the amount of funds raised as score cards when it ought to clue the public in to who is going to get access and who won't. There are few who don't accept these kinds of funds - they're big but with big strings attached.

I endeavor to spend my time communicating and less time pandering for dollars. Isn't that what representative government is supposed to be? It comes at a price because I have more difficulty getting my message out to middle class families who want to know they'll get a fair shake even if they can't shell out a weeks' take home pay for a contribution.

The remedy is really quite simple and one I fully support - $6. If every American spent $6 a year to fund future federal elections we'd save over $200 annually in "pork". The $15 Billion subsidy to the oil companies would be gone - that's $50 right there. Similar "deals" apply to the drug industry that contributes to higher health care costs. The same goes for costs of education. Seeing a theme? Education. Energy. Healthcare. Had enough? It's our turn.

Think of it. Full time representation of, for and by the people. 24/7. It will give us American ingenuity and common sense among our best and brightest who would otherwise never consider running for office - for $6 per person per year. Check it out. www.just6dollars.org

Two Marches - Same Hopes & Dreams

2006-05-02T15:30:00.000-04:00

On April 29, my youngest daughter (age 12) and I marched with 300,000 other people to express our opposition to the Iraq war. My Be Patriotic Impeach Bush bumper stickers (which I gave away in under 30 minutes) were displayed on hundreds of signs by those who shared this sentiment. There were A LOT of Vietnam era folks there. They know the horrors of a war and desire to have a path that allows them to heal from both seen and unseen demons.

On April 30, I joined my fellow board members at a banquet honoring our GWOT veterans along with 400 attendees. There was no conflict within me on this event. Our military personnel and their families deserve our 100% support for doing what they were ordered to do. Politics is for the elected, not officers and their troops. I felt that way when I was in the Marine Corps and still do.

On May 1, the anniversary of Bush's "Mission Accomplished" claim, I had the honor to stand on the steps of the State House before the 15,000 - 20,000 immigrants who shared what my grandparents did - the desire to be part of the American landscape, attend public school, pay their taxes, raise their families and pursue economic opportunity. I welcome the diversity and their sense of cultural pride because among those I know, they very much want to be Americans.

The path where these two ideas meet is a short story. One of my supporters is an older gentlemen from Colombia, a soccer coach and also the father of a son who was awarded a silver star posthumously in action in Panama. This is one Latino killed by another for American interests. This is not lost on me. I hope it is not on you either.

Immigration and Iraq: Mixed Messages?

2006-05-01T15:03:00.000-04:00

In addition to being a Marine veteran, I'm a father of five. Two of our children were from my wife's prior marriage with a first generation Mexican American who also served in the Marines and currently is a senior officer working for the Border Patrol. It's with these perspectives I believe we, as a nation, are often conflicted.

On one hand, until recently immigration was not a forefront public policy issue. It still doesn't rank among the top 10 issues that most Americans want addressed. What is ironic is 60% of the illegal entries occurred after 2001, which says something about the current administration's efforts and commitment to provide border security. Domestic security clearly ought to be a nonpartisan issue.

On the other hand, we are fighting and dying for the purported reason of making three tribes stop killing each other over ethnic and border disputes that predated Iraq's formation as a country following World War I. We are insisting that these people assimilate into a single nation state and we continue investe huge amounts of our tax dollars to do so.

Perhaps if we prioritized our policies and expenditures on domestic economic growth and opportunity and brought an end to discrimination and inequality in the U.S. we'd be more convincing elsewhere in the world.

Disappointment at a bad alliance

2006-04-26T15:32:00.000-04:00

Like most Rhode Island citizens, I am deeply disappointed that Matt Brown, who has positioned himself as a reformer, is now backing the ultimate political insider, Sheldon Whitehouse. I ask for the vote of Matt’s supporters who hold a higher view of what public service should mean.

What our state needs is a positive vision and a fresh clean candidate who will give RI back to its voters. As a Marine vet, business owner and family man, I am that outsider candidate who will apply middle class common sense and honesty to tackle our everyday kitchen table issues, such as the exploding price of gasoline at the pump and bringing our troops home now. That is my promise.

Lobbying Reform: Who's fooling who?

2006-04-25T17:34:00.000-04:00

During the past 15 years I have worked with over 700 privately-held small and medium-sized businesses. I am always happy when they are buzzing along making a good profit and taking care of their employees. Heck, I teach Entrepreneurship, Business and Finance, so I'm about whatever contributes to our economy and the public good.

Baby, that train has derailed and we look at our elected officials on both sides of the aisle and say "What's up?" How come they're not as angry and fed up as we are? One word: Lobbyists.

I'm going to focus on prices at the pump squeezed from us like blood from a turnip, but I could have picked most public companies in any industry, such as drug companies doing the same thing in Medicare Plan "D". Beware, likely no extensions past May 15, which will really harm over one-third of our seniors on fixed incomes.

In U.S.A Today (April 25, 2006), it shows some states already have gas prices exceeding $3.00/gal. and oil companies continue to report record profits. What caught my eye is the industry lobbying group ad that says that taxes make up 19% of every dollar spent on oil. Most every accountant will tell you that public corporations pay at the 40% federal rate given the profits big companies like Exxon/Mobil are reaping. This would suggest they're not even paying their fair share of taxes for the very military that is protecting their oil interests in the middle east! Their CEO Raymond received $165,000 an hour in 2005! That is not a typo - an hour. Compare this to middle class annual pay and figure how much $3.00, $3.50, $4.00, $4.50 and $5.00 a gallon will reduce your take home pay each year. Is it $1,000, $2,000, $3,000 or more? This is before price hikes for other things like groceries, which will ramp up at least 20% or more depending when this insanity ends.

Back to my point. So what have our elected officials been doing to "reform" lobbying? Well they just proposed a temporary stop to luxury perks... well at least until after the elections this year. Only company executives can fly with you on their corporate jets to exotic places, not their lobbyists. But don't worry, lobbyists can't directly pay for $100 dinners to members of Congress, but they can put on a lavish fundraising party and bring in 200 of their closest $1,000-a- plate friends to watch you not take $100 from the lobbyist. Let's see, that's $200,000 versus the $100.

Do you think that if we send folks to Washington who are already insiders, they're going to really show the integrity to put forth reform with real teeth? History proves time and again that those with chummy relationships aren't going to change their spots. What I'm after is legislation that makes 'em wear stripes (prison issue would be nice).

So the next time somebody points out the $1.0 million plus funds raised by candidates as a measure of their viability - you ought to think about the $1,000 you're out due to higher gas prices, then slug 'em or walk away!

Thank you, Robert Whitcomb and the ProJo

2006-04-24T08:44:00.000-04:00

Nobody says running for office is easy. When you are in front of a classroom of college students in the beginning of the term, you will either have the semester of a thousand deaths or it will be very fulfilling. The teachers out there know what I’m talking about.

It’s the energy you feel and return to others. It’s the discourse and exchange of ideas. In the moment when some gap is bridged or common idea is achieved, it’s all worth it. I love it. People are cool.

Almost everyone who has served in the military has had to do a forced march. That’s 25 miles with a full combat load (usually at least 80 pounds) within a certain period of time. It’s supposed to toughen you up, not just chew up your feet and kill your back. The point is that unless somebody is literally shooting at you, the worst thing you’re dealing with is another mile up hill. That’s how I see this campaign.

Considering I’m running as the anti-war, anti-Bush candidate, every one of our troops who is serving or has served is worthy of every uphill step I take so they can come home now and be with their families. I am convinced all of our futures are directly tied to this goal. The fact the ProJo (read The Third Man editorial from the Journal on 04/23/06) has laid the gauntlet before the Rhode Island Democratic Party leadership to give me a fair shake is like a hot shower and a cold beer after one of these marches. Time to put the boots back on and work until September 12.

An American Decision: Draft or Alternative Energy?

2006-04-19T13:53:00.000-04:00

Four months ago I spoke at Brown University to attendees who wanted to get a glimpse of the Marine veteran and U.S. Senate candidate upstart. I cautioned them that within 10 years the geopolitical landscape could look wholly different than now. My caution was an expanded Middle East war and our country’s path was a non-partisan issue.

I stressed the epicenter of the collision would be based upon oil. Venezuela with its oil reserves will influence the entirety of South and Central America. China’s consumption now rivals and will far exceed our own by 2010. This was confirmed by my recent visit there last summer where I witnessed their expanding manufacturing centers. While we’re struggling in the Middle East, China is entering into arrangements with many oil rich African and Asian countries – and they have tens of billions of dollars invested in Iran. China will consume in 15 years what it took the U.S. 40 years to use. The economic and environmental consequences are staggering. In short, there just isn’t enough oil.

By late Spring, we’ll experience gas prices exceeding $3.00 a gallon while the CEO of Exxon/Mobil will have received $400 million in compensation. The oil futures price per barrel has exceeded $70, about double the pre-Iraq invasion price. Industry analysts have every reason to expect even a limited U.S. military strike in Iran (under the pretenses of preemptive attack) will escalate the price and rock the tenuous balance in the region.

Iran and Muslim fanatics will retaliate both directly and indirectly. They’ll target the Straits of Hormuz to block the flow of oil shipping and aggressively pursue pipelines in and around Saudi Arabia. Oil has been and still remains the U.S. life blood in a very real sense. The current administration will justify expanded military operations in the region.

There’s a reason that past and current generals are challenging Defense Secretary Rumsfeld, the face behind the Bush/Cheney personal ambitions. They know U.S. military manpower needed to support an extended regional presence is more than three times the number we currently have in place. They know it will require a draft. They know it will take hundreds of billions of dollars and costs tens of thousands of American lives.

Bush’s expressed intent to stay in the region past 2008 has reduced our troops’ morale. The public is catching on to the deception. It’s a question of engaged resolve and priorities. In places like Munich, the local transit consists of an efficient blend of trains, buses and cycling. Our infrastructure has the potential to support this, but American habits and willpower need to support these options.

The 2006 elections could decide America’s future fate. My vision is to save lives and end the hypocrisy and lack of leadership. Invest our billions in the development of alternative energy, healthcare and education and make minor modifications to our lifestyles. Rest assured, the alternative is truly our kids’ and grandkid’s blood for oil.

Because we have to live with tomorrow

2006-04-17T16:28:00.000-04:00

I have five kids from a blended marriage. They're all really good kids. My mom is still alive. I have one sister. I drive down the road and I see more cars with "for sale" signs on their windows. I see folks charging their groceries and know intuitively these are not signs of a strong economy. Like every other working and middle class family, I'm wondering if we'll be able to do better than we are currently. I know in my gut there's something wrong and at the end of every thought I think "is my family going to be okay?" I know why. It's the damn war and the damn tax cuts for the wealthy and the damn politicians who won't step up and say it like it is. They won't end the war or provide us with national healthcare or better paths to higher education. They won't admit they and those we trusted before them really hosed up.

What spooks me more than the government driven fear of Iran (that much of the public has so easily swallowed - just like we were suckered about Iraq), is that we're not learning any history lessons about how we really pissed off mostly Islamic people in the middle east with some really stupid, self-serving policies for over the last half century. There are always consequences when you screw up. You deal with it as honorably as you know how. That's leadership. Brute force is escaping blame. It is the gutless way to deal with conflict. It's like being the big bully on the playground and then not understanding why somebody cracked you in the head thirty years later for being such an ass and still wanting payback.

I'd rather suffer some humility and know that my family was well cared for and had promise for a brighter future than being lead by mostly idiots who might make our present (and eroding) quality of life even worse; especially for my kids who'll all be grown up within the next ten years. Sometimes I wonder who else reading this blog is wondering who is going to be our leader and take us in a better direction; not liars promising and not delivering. I don't think our nation has too many more lies left in her to take. I know I can't take much more.

IMMIGRATION: POLITICAL “PASS THE BUCK” MEASURED IN LIVES

2006-04-09T12:38:00.000-04:00

Anyone in disagreement there are too many working poor American citizens right here in Rhode Island? Should their needs be addressed first when our taxpayer funded resources are limited? I’d argue emphatically, yes. That requires leadership from our elected officials, which has been largely absent and causes both citizens and the undocumented to live in a spiral of fear exacerbated by bad policy and politics.

We also must recognize our post 9/11 policies have kept out hundreds of thousands of highly educated, skilled workers in the unfilled positions in the maths and sciences who are providing their highly valued capabilities to our international competitors. These are the minds that bring us alternative energy and stem cell research solutions now as they did nuclear capability 60 years ago.

I would also argue that when economic pressure is on our middle-class families, we have a disappointing and long history of expressing “anti-newcomer” sentiments. What I ask folks to consider is looking towards the intention of our constitution. It was not crafted to exclude rights of the oppressed minority. Our American culture is a patchwork quilt of our individual histories. We have benefited from our differences, but what we share is the desire to be American.

We must address the issue of border security in a meaningful way; otherwise, we will revisit the last Reagan era amnesty every decade or so and also increase our odds of another attack. Post 9/11 domestic security requires that we do something that our government has been unwilling or unable to do; however, this does not mean building walls, but expanded active and effective enforcement.

I support McCain and Kennedy’s Immigration Bill, because as a pragmatist there is no fiscally sound or humane way to send back part or all of the ten million plus who now make America their home. The duration one has resided here is an arbitrary argument and fogs the issue of a path to citizenship. It is important to acknowledge laws have been broken with proper monetary penalties and back-of-the-line waiting period requirements that reflect a balance of firmness, but fairness to applicants and our citizens.

The American Dream is a Non-Partisan Issue

2006-04-03T10:00:00.001-04:00

Each week after thumbing through dozens of papers and magazines, I find myself with the same conclusion. There is insufficient discussion of the American Dream. Frankly, I think this is what most middle class and working class families want to hear.

We have the media and politicians telling us either there is a civil war in Iraq or there isn't. I think it’s clear that there is when Iraqi civilians are buying weapons in record numbers. So much for bringing stability to the region. In the past few months American troop losses are down to fewer than 60 a month, an intolerable number nevertheless, but Iraqi civilian deaths have doubled and are more than ten times this number. Speaks volumes, doesn’t it? We spend billions of dollars in Iraq each month but there is not enough for the promised hospitals or other basic elements that lead to a stable society.

We have Democratic politicians who say they want to wait until they win a majority before considering Impeachment or Iraq withdrawal issues. I wonder if the public considers this leadership. I don't. Sometimes doing the right thing places oneself at risk, but in this case it's the best thing for all Americans. Whether Republicans hold the majority is not the underlying issue because if it was the public would have changed this balance. What they do want to know is where is the elected opposition with teeth? Just look to Russ Feingold, John Murtha and John Conyers to see what this looks like.

True leaders know that leadership, not polls, galvanizes and inspires the public to want to support and follow. When public opinion is ahead of our elected officials, it's clear we have a problem. We have had enough of the lies concerning security and our middle class values. It’s time to keep the promise of good health care, alternative energy and education policies that stimulate and strengthen our economy and keep good jobs in the States.

You see, other than political diehard loyalists, the majority of citizens crave good leadership from those they elect. Not perfection, but leadership. This means elected Democrats and Republicans should not be listening to polls and inside the D.C. beltway political advisors, but their constituents. That'd be refreshing!

We know intuitively that the financial hole created by the Iraq war is an incredibly deep one. We know that campaign promises are empty if we remain in Iraq, because taxpayer paid funds for our domestic programs just isn't there. We know it at the grocery store because $100 does not fill our shopping carts the way it did a few years ago. We know it because there are more second cars for sale on front lawns. We know it because we're paying more in property taxes and health care premiums. We know it because we don't take as many trips in the car to the mall or vacations. We know it because the balances on our credit cards are inching upwards. This is clearly a nonpartisan issue that cries for leadership by first admitting its mistakes and taking our country back on a course towards the American Dream.

The American Dream is a Non-Partisan Issue

2006-04-03T10:00:00.000-04:00

Year Four of the Bush War: Military Draft or American Democracy?

2006-03-27T17:11:00.000-05:00

As a Marine veteran who served during Desert Storm, I witnessed the aftermath of that conflict. By comparison, the impact on American troops of a three-year war in Iraq is staggering. The media has given little coverage to the myriad of coffins draped with American flags, disfiguring casualties or droves of Iraqi children with limbs lost from our crippling bombs.

The media has also failed to investigate why there are at least four permanent U.S. military “super-bases”, with many others under construction, in Iraq. The Bush administration offered no exit strategy because none ever existed. This claim is further supported by Bush's dire statement, given at last week’s news conference, that the withdrawal of our troops would be left to a future president.

Who really benefits from our indefinite presence in Iraq? Large corporations do – the ones that are ineffectually rebuilding the country and re-supplying the war effort with waste and nominal accountability. Our military should only be asked to protect and defend our Constitution and homeland, not business interests.

America has a finite number of combat troops, some of whom have already served three and four deployments. This undeclared war has stretched our armed services thin. Remember what happened to the former Soviet Union after it was mired down in Afghanistan? The next logical step is a troubling one. When, not if, will the draft will be reinstated?

The consequences of the draft would be cataclysmic except, of course, to those privileged few who will be ready to declare and profit from war. Given the latest rhetoric, Iran is next. It is alarming enough that the Bush administration and Congress have cut vital resources for our communities to fund this war. Will we still hear "stay the course" from people whose family members and friends are drafted and sent headlong into the raging Middle East?

Is America safer as a result of these misguided policies? Are our ports, rail yards and borders more secure? Are we less dependent on foreign oil? Are our children being better educated? Are our veterans and seniors receiving improved health care? No. People are dying for a president and his cronies—not to mention the K-Street lobbyists—who have exceeded their constitutional powers and violated their oaths of office and the principles we hold so dear “of, for, and by the people”.

Witness the series of deceptions used to manipulate public fears after 9/11. First, tying Iraq to Al Qaeda, hyping pre-war intelligence on WMD’s, and toppling Saddam Hussein to impose a Western-style democracy on an Islamic nation. Then parroting the worn statement, "we'll stand down when they stand up," and denying the existence of - at a minimum - a low-grade civil war.

Most Americans don’t want our soldiers dying in Iraq to resolve longstanding ethnic conflicts that our own failed policies unleashed. Are we “patriotic” when we allow imported terrorists, zealous insurgents, and sectarian death-squads to kill our troops based on these deceptions?

Do you support this unending war of greed and misinformation, and the looming military draft, or do you support our dying American Dream, revitalized with citizens’ cries for impeachment? Do your duty, Congress! Our future is not a partisan issue.

An Extended Hand to Matt Brown's Volunteers

2006-03-27T11:22:00.000-05:00

The clouds over Matt's campaign would likely have soon passed, but for two errors: (1) His media blitz ended with a pledge to bring campaign reform to the political process and (2) Not immediately addressing any seemingly questionable contribution practices alleged by the media.

As the least financed, under-dog in our democratic three-way primary for US Senate, I understand the challenges of how the need for raise funds to increase public awareness becomes more consuming than meeting with the public and discussing their concerns.

Arguably, many campaigns are measured by who raises the most money to make media buys for 30 second sound bites. Sadly, big business media has eroded American politics. Obviously, it has less to do with who is most sincere, hardworking or accessible.

Should Matt make the decision to discontinue his campaign, we would like to extend our hand to his loyal volunteers who want to work with local staff, not DC outsiders. If you want to help bring about a timely end to the Iraq War, while remaining strong on national security, please consider our campaign. Our campaign has a big heart for seniors, women and equality issues while being well grounded in the daily challenges of being a middle class family with the values of hard work and faith.

All of these issues, as well as the environment, education, energy and health care, require common sense solutions that our volunteers often bring.

Iraq – Who’s really benefiting?

2006-03-20T10:02:00.000-05:00

This past weekend I had the privilege to join an increasing number of everyday Americans in Boston, Newport and Providence who showed the patriotism to ask for the immediate return of our troops from Iraq. It is clear they understood they were representing the majority opinion of Americans. I was honored to speak in memory of Rhode Island’s eight fallen servicemen and women.

Over 90% of our troops in Iraq want withdrawal within the year and 30% want it immediately. Most envision a multi-year civil war that won’t be prevented by their Constitution. Why the “disconnect” between public opinion and our legislators’ actions?

In Rhode Island, our elected officials have expressed there’s insufficient support for the end of our Iraq occupation. That’s untrue. Respected Zogby polls show Rhode Island is one of the top states wanting withdrawal. What’s worse, it’s passing the leadership buck on the majority whose daily lives are overwhelmed as it is. Some think politicians rely upon this, so as to take as little action as possible. I’d argue they are afraid to acknowledge they made a blunder going into the War. Our troops deserve better.

It is clear President Bush lied about the Al Qaeda – and the botched 9/11 connection. He then lied about the Weapons of Mass Destruction (impeachable offenses due to the loss of lives). The removal of Saddam Hussein, a third world dictator, among many to include the Saudi Royal family (remember the majority of airplane terrorists were Saudi) might make us safer, but there are dozens more (many whom we support) ignored regimes still in power.

Who benefits from our going into Iraq and staying there? Given the tens of thousands of Kurds gassed to death in 1988 and the Shia majority murdered after Bush Sr.’s pullout in 1991, humanitarian and civil rights weren’t the reason. We can look as close as Katrina or as far as Darfur, Sudan to see this isn’t the administration’s priority. Our communities aren’t safer with lowered funding for domestic security, education or healthcare. Let’s not forget Bush’s Dubai ports deal. What about the 2,300+ troops we have already lost? What about our disabled military personnel who equal ten times this number? How about those with psychological disabilities – they equal 50 times this number or the number of families whose lives are disrupted; 100 times this number.

So who benefits? Our Constitution has no provisions to spend American lives to protect and defend big business interests, yet they benefit most. Our military uses more petroleum than any other entity in the world - more so during time of war. This demand drives up oil prices, so oil companies benefit at taxpayers’ expense. They obviously also want access to the second largest oil reserve in the world. Rebuilding the Iraq we destroyed after Desert Storm is no less than a billions of dollars boon-doggle for contractors like Cheney’s Halliburton, at taxpayers’ expense. The replacement of tens of thousands of pieces of military equipment from bullets to Humvees puts billions of taxpayers’ dollars into military equipment manufacturers.

It’s un-American if corporate interests are coming before our public’s interest

Taxes, School Closure and Iraq - Where's the leadership?

2006-03-16T11:34:00.000-05:00

Sometimes when it all seems to make no sense, I try to think why did a group of rich men who had more to gain by providing exclusively for those like themselves take such great efforts to draft an enduring document that reflected vision and wisdom for us all, then as it does now. We respectfully call them our Founding Fathers and it is OUR U.S. Constitution.

This was true selfless leadership. These men knew many would experience life's hardships and hopes. Their aim was to help make hope an achievable ideal in this country with honesty and hard work. This was mostly unheard of anywhere else in the world, especially at that time. They memorialized solutions to benefit the many, not simply the few.

Our citizens have enormous potential to unite behind visions like being the first to land on the moon or to make sacrifices when they're for the good of our country. I truly believe that.

Mike McMahon of the RIEDC, is one bright man who went out on a limb by sharing a nonpartisan message that Rhode Island is at an economic crossroads. Short-term thinking, cronyism, self-interest and special interests are not reflected in our U.S. Constitution.

The proposed state tax cuts on personal income would benefit principally those households earning $250,000+ annually. The current 9.9% rate is paid by those households earning over $326,000 AFTER adjustments. A temporary top rate of 7.5%, with proposed further reductions, is a 25% tax reduction. This is a $25,000 annual tax savings for the $1 million annual income household. This is on top of the 20%+ in wealth income tax savings at the federal level. Compare this to the proposed $50 savings for middle income households. Many of us know that much of our state income funds go to education and other social services. The funding shortfall created by these proposed cuts means higher property taxes for the middle class, who end up paying more than the supposed tax "savings". This is not leadership. It's a dishonest omission. It's passing the buck and stalling the inevitable fiscal debacle reminiscent of the savings and loan bailout.

Is there a correlation that the wealthy will leave the state or won't consider directing jobs here unless these taxes are cut or is it more an issue of quid pro quo to wealthy contributors who can afford to make $1,000+ donations to campaigns that pledge to make such cuts? Is this sounding anything remotely familiar to the multiple Bush tax cuts for America's millionaires while we're mired in War in Iraq? Ask most middle class folks whether their take home pay after expenses for fuel, groceries, housing, health care and TAXES is higher or lower now?

What's the emerging proposed answer? Close schools to save money. This will reduce the number of teachers and increase the number of students per class. Is this foresight? Which communities can expect to see school closures? I'm thinking this will not occur in more affluent areas where quality public education translates into higher property values.

There is no denying that our least able have a shared responsibility when they are physically capable to improve their lives. Conversely, the wealthy among us, while smaller in numbers also have a civic duty to our state. I think the middle class is already doing their fair share.

Being Patriotic Means Opposing Misrepresentation

2006-03-15T09:40:00.000-05:00

We're approaching 3 years in Iraq. What are the costs . . . in lives, in dollars, in our foreign alliances and our domestic future? It was never about keeping us safe here at home. By now most people know there was no connection between 9/11 and Iraq. We're not in the business of removing all the world’s malevolent dictators either. There are plenty on the Asian and African continents, too - about 86 who are unfriendly to the U.S. now.

What can we do to put a face on this war, its impact on our families and middle class Americans? We can seek accountability of our elected officials who are unwilling to acknowledge they were lied to, so they can do the right thing and pursue the real culprits of 9/11 and reunite our troops with their families.

If we want to "support our troops" we can do so by taking a small percentage of the time they have dedicated while deployed. We can contact our elected officials, write letters to the editor, call in to the radio and organize and participate in peaceful protests. It's the least we can do. We can also vote. Those votes are your opportunity to select and elect folks who put people's lives above broken political promises.

Democracy is not spectator sport

2006-03-14T17:10:00.000-05:00

Last September I joined tens of thousands in D.C. to protest a war that many veterans believe was a broken promise that we'd never have a Vietnam again.

It'll be three years and hundreds of thousands of lives shattered by death and maiming of minds and bodies on both sides of the globe. The dead have the grave benefit of being put to rest but leave our parents, children, significant others and friends with a vacant spot they thought would be filled by the remaining years with a loved one.

Our democracy erodes here in the U.S. Hundreds of billions of dollars are spent. Opportunities are lost to better the lives of our middle class. Improved care for our youth and elderly is squandered and we misdirect our angst and anger often selfishly against others (rights and equality issues). It becomes abundantly clear to me that my personal journey began by protesting this president and his war of lies and greed. He has betrayed his oath of office and our constitution.

I will march this weekend in Newport, Providence and Boston. As a Marine veteran I will be speaking for my brothers and sisters who are languishing in a purgatory of honorable duty on behalf of an administration that dishonors them with inadequate protection and poor leadership on Capitol Hill.

I put my professional career and large family on hold because I asked a basic question. "What would one life be worth if it was saved by my acts of conviction and measured defiance?" So the house is mortgaged and I put up my "Be Patriotic Impeach Bush" billboard.

I have been chastened by the democratic insiders, challenged by some greens and ridiculed by the GOP right wing as I campaign for U.S. Senate. The media ignores its balanced reporting responsibility. But the hardest part is that many people do little more than share an "atta boy".

I wonder just how much each of us has to be impacted before we again become united and actively engaged in the safety and protection of our communities and countrymen. How many times does somebody watch before actually acting on their own?

Have we all become so used to becoming spectators? There is time to watch TV, go out for a meal or lounge, but to regain our country's future, arm chair quarterbacking both sides of the aisle is not sufficient action.

JFK and many great men and women got it right about asking not what our country will do for you..... What is a more noble cause than saving a fellow countryman's life?

Why I announced at Hope HS & have my campaign HQ in So. Providence

2006-03-10T11:33:00.000-05:00

Rhode Island is a pretty state. It has some very exclusive neighborhoods, but it also has many towns and cities with homes occupied by hard working middle class families struggling to get by and often one paycheck shy of financial ruin.

It is an ethnically diverse and culturally rich state for being as small in size and population as it is..........

But there is another side beyond the soccer moms and tailgate parties. In large part, the party machine expends more effort on the protection of the incumbency of its loyal members than helping stop the shrinking prosperity of the communities they represent.

The hardest hit are what I called in my campaign speech - the "underrepresented". One third of households with children are headed up by a single parent. Our manufacturing economy was replaced with the lower wages of a service economy with over 25% of households in poverty. Exploitation of minorities has been the rule with funds going to "connected" communities for street repairs and education.

I believe Congressman Patrick Kennedy referred to some areas in Rhode Island as "war zones". I'm not super-tough, but these neighborhoods were similar to the ones in which I grew up in LA, Brooklyn and Chicago. These are my people.

I made my candidacy announcement at Hope High School because of the irony. Hope is the state's motto. This High School is a stone's throw from two exclusive private high schools and Brown University. It is under funded and many of Providence's most at-risk students attend school there. Community indifference has not only threatened to close the school and has also put teachers at their tethers' end. These are the kids who would most likely be dropping out. Many of them are also from broken homes and more likely to be serving in Iraq. The occasional answer has been to shut it down and sell the valuable land it sits on as a remedy to a blight that has less to do with the students than it has to do with leadership. The theme of my announcement, “No more blood for oil in Iraq”, was because Bush lied to us. I talked about the school being one side of the two Americas right here in RI, just like Katrina and how funds for education, job growth and healthcare would only come when we had leadership that demanded it for those least able to care for themselves.

They did not want policy, they wanted conviction. Drowning people don't want swimming lessons, they want a life preserver.

So to keep my faith with these folks I kept my other promise and put my campaign HQ in South Providence, which is principally populated by minorities. You will seldom see white folks here and that's the rub, because I can bet it'll be an area that will soon become gentrified because of some of the beautiful early 1900’s homes that are waiting to be renovated.

If elected officials are not connecting with the poor, working and middle class people other than to attend clam bakes and little league games, then they aren't going to prevent the true hardships our inadequate domestic policy causes for people who have hopes and dreams just like you and I.

Don't take my word for it. Just read these two posts and wonder why people who are running for office (like me) have such a tough time with the incumbent leadership.....

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.ph...

Carl

Sheeler for US Senate
www.carlsheeler.com

Democrats, not aristocrats.

How do we reach mainstream American families?

2006-03-08T13:54:00.000-05:00

We have to first acknowledge what is wrong, what is right and what needs to be done.

I don't think people want to see 30 second commercials as much as they would like to know where a candidate is on issues without being prepped to appear so PC. Engaged citizens love debates. I've reached out to the media, business and labor, as well as partisan and nonpartisan groups. Most think a series of debates is a great idea. I'd like to propose one a month starting in April through the primaries in September. My opponents seem to think one will do. All six could be held at various CCRI campuses throughout the state. I'd love to see folks like Arlene Violet and Pablo Rodriquez moderate them.

People need to know that the war in Iraq is increasingly losing support. In this week's edition of the Marine Times, over 60% of members of the military (especially E-1 through E-6 and O-4 through 0-6) now believe its time to consider withdrawing.

This was something our campaign was pursuing back in July 2005. Doesn't the public want to know which candidates poll test their response, change their minds and which listen to what the public wants and believes?

The leaders in a town in Vermont and the city of San Francisco are about as dissimilar as you could imagine. In one way they're the same. They want impeachment proceedings to begin. Is it vision or being in touch with over two-thirds of Rhode Islanders who want the same thing? Does incumbency protection in RI mean self interest versus public interest?

So now we have the passing of the Patriot Act II by the House and the GOP has blocked investigations into the illegality of wiretappings authorized by the President.

To paraphrase a man I deeply respect, "I'm thinking that mainstream Americans are as pissed off at the Democrats as they are at the Republicans for what our elected officials are doing to our country."

That doesn't require vision, it requires acting to restore basic faith in elected officials. It is done by acknowledging what is wrong, what is right and what needs to be done. This is at the core of our values. The public already knows we need domestic security, better education, national healthcare, job creation, less foreign energy dependence and citizen equality.

It's not a partisan issue, it's a trust and candor issue. It's a leadership issue. I'm ready.

Paying for $500 appetizers and just smiling....

2006-03-03T09:41:00.000-05:00

Sometimes while campaigning you hit low points. I'd say yesterday evening qualifies. In an odd twist of fate, I have held four gatherings where the weather was so bad that attendance was in the double digits. One example is prior to my campaign announcement, we put on Latino meet and greet event and it rained so heavily many streets flooded and the media told people to stay in doors. We had 125 people confirmed and fewer than 20 attended. The day of my U.S. Senate candidacy announcement there were gale wind warnings and (you guessed it), people were told to stay inside. We had 300+ people confirmed to attend and 40 - 50 adults showed by my count.

Last evening’s snow storm, by far, takes the prize. We had 150 RSVPs for a small meet & greet fundraiser and had actually followed up at noon with those committing to attend because of the weather. Between announcements, fundraising expenses, rental and food, we ended up spending much more per person than we brought in. Even less experienced people than I can tell you this was a bust - a BIG one. A grassroots campaign can't afford these. This could have been funds used for additional Be Patriotic Impeach Bush billboards on I-95...

I'm not making excuses for Matt Brown's campaign finance woes, but I can tell you that there is a small group of base supporters who believe in and would do most anything to help a campaign. They're often doing most of the heavy lifting financially and by their investment of personal time. It is very, very difficult to go forward without these folks.

It is at our low points you find out who is using you as a meal ticket and who believes in you. Ingrid, Brian and Bill are examples of individuals with faith. Ingrid is easiest to explain. She has been contacted by much better funded state and federal campaigns than mine because of her outreach in poorer and minority communities. She just believes in me.

Brian reminds me of myself in my early twenties. Strong in his desire and actions to see a better place for the disadvantaged and often more change than cash in his pocket. He has plastered my materials all over college campuses even when we hadn’t asked. He wrote out a considerable check that I know he can't afford. I'm going to return it to him today because it's the right thing to do. Bill is an attorney and a veteran living in Rhode Island. I've never met him in person, but he often sends me words of encouragement and $20.06. I needed his kind email after last evening. He has committed to find 12 people like himself to support our campaign. It is his plan that he and they would contribute $20.06 each month until the primary.

I cried. These are the people who make it worth while. They're the ones I am doing this for and I don't intend on letting them down. I just keep smiling.

When did Democracy take a back seat?

2006-03-02T09:11:00.000-05:00

In a continuation of "how low can we go?" some members speaking on behalf of the Rhode Island Democratic Town and Cities Chair Committee have endorsed Sheldon Whitehouse and Ralph Mollis. What is interesting is only about 11 Chairs have held committee meetings with the candidates. This leaves 28 towns and cities unrepresented. I've heard Matt Brown and Guillaume de Ramel are miffed. Why wouldn't they be? de Ramel had received the endorsement of eight of the 11, but that doesn't seem to matter for the insiders who have decided for the other committees and for their committee members and for the registered democrats in the locales they purport to represent.

Now we understand why there's a disconnect between the party rank and file and leadership. It gets worse. There's been a back door effort to oust certain state democratic party leadership in an effort to have current incumbents more securely hold onto their seats regardless of the quality of leadership they have exhibited. Losing seats to the GOP will be a product of this continued behind closed door cronyism. The public knows to what degree some will stoop. I can only hope Sheldon is not part of this and calls on fair play within the party given his furthest insider role.

But there's more. Not one DEMOCRAT in the Rhode Island General Assembly has so much as responded to my request for them to discuss and sponsor an impeachment resolution to be sent to the US House of Representatives. Last I checked, the majority of Rhode Islanders feel this amoral president and many within his executive branch ought to be impeached or they at least want to see that the effort is made. It'd certainly show the party has backbone. Is there disconnect? I think so.

But yes folks, there's more. Matt Brown having been tirelessly pursuing the need for better campaign finance practices is himself embroiled in a controversy of questionable ethics and has launched an aggressive counter-attack that Sheldon Whitehouse has also been doing some ethically questionable fundraising. All I know is both have received contributions from individuals who the ProJo has identified as having questionable backgrounds. Matt Brown has returned his funds from these undesirables.

Sometimes it's simply nice to be the dark horse, political outsider who spends his time with everyday Rhode Islanders. Maybe that's why Jack Reed is one of only a few US Senators who is not a millionaire and has one of the highest approval ratings in the US Senate and here in Rhode Island. It's something I wish to live up to and I hope you feel the same way.

Iraq, Iran and the Draft... Places or People

2006-03-01T12:43:00.000-05:00

I'm one of the first people to argue for a strong national defense and military. But, I'm noticing a trend. Maybe it is not really a new trend, but I hope others are noticing it too. I'd like to think the media is doing some investigative journalism to keep our government honest.

When we hear about bombings in Iraq, do we think of bombs exploding in some place in Iraq or do we think about people (mostly civilians) having their limbs ripped off or beyond recognition? Is it okay if we don't witness the gore? Is it justified because we're doing our part for their Democracy"? These are people like you and me - aren't they? Was their crime being born into the wrong country or nationality? When do we stop and sniff the napalm?

After all, in the past 30 years we have been both allies and enemies of the governments of Iran and Iraq often immersed in or facilitating friction with one or the other - at times both.

Is Iraq more democratic now that Shias and Sunnis settle old scores with more killings? Who among us don't harbor resentments and friction with certain work associates, neighbors and family members? Why do we think a document or military force will settle things, when clearly humankind is often not disposed to do so?

I spoke about my concern of the post invasion fumble and no exit strategy. We're already starting to hear the beat of anti-Iran rhetoric. Mind you, we're not really distinguishing between the place, government or people. Is this turmoil because our footprint is creating it? Are we legitimately bringing stability to the area? Which side of the gun muzzle are you facing?

Iraq's Shias are undeterred by borders. They might well seek Iranian assistance, but since we insist Iran (a place) is a pending nuclear threat we might have to stay in Iraq longer to keep stability in the region. Is this sounding at all familiar to anyone? Nuclear threat, threatening leadership, save their people to introduce our Democracy, drop bombs.

Okay, are you ready for the "what if"? What if we say Iran is a nuclear threat and this is W's justification for bombings. Are you prepared to send your sons and daughters to the war zone, because the Pentagon brass has already made it clear our over-extended combat troops (many of whom are National Guard and reservists) are near breaking?

We have insufficient numbers of combat troops to keep them replenished with volunteers. Ever wonder why $580 million was allocated to the draft board that has not instituted a draft in over 30 years? Or that high school kids' names, demographics and social security numbers are sent to the Department of Defense unless a parent knows they have an opt-out option?

If my military experience means anything, these draftees will be kids from less advantaged backgrounds and not eligible for multiple draft deferments like some who may not be serving so honorably.

Being Patriotic includes the responsibility of also questioning the judgment of those in charge who put our youth in harm's way. Blindly following so called "leaders" who have made no personal sacrifice themselves to further their own self-serving agendas is simply wrong.

I'm not willing to bet your life on it or that of your kids and grandkids. Are you?

Did you get the survey call?

2006-02-28T13:29:00.000-05:00

This is Sara. I usually leave the blogging to Carl but wanted to share a few thoughts. Remember the ill-fated Brown University "survey" back in the beginning of February? For those of you with better things to do than keep back issues of the ProJo, here is a link to the story. According to the results, Carl received 0% of the vote. I wonder if anyone at the paper thought to ask about the methods and/or questions asked during the survey. At the time, I was glad that they cut Carl out of the results completely (ever heard of a monkey vote?) rather than giving him 1%- 2% as a door prize vote. The establishment must be very very afraid of him to pretend he doesn't exist.

Yesterday one of our campaign staffers spoke with two people today by phone about our upcoming fundraiser. Both of these people just happened to receive calls and participated in the Brown University Survey. One of them is a native English speaker and she says that Carl Sheeler was not mentioned in any of the questions. The second person speaks English as a second language and kept asking the survey caller about Carl but was ignored.

Do a search at the ProJo for Bakst articles; lots of Whitehouse and Brown, nary a Sheeler (Father Knows Best?). You can also rummage through the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee’s website. Carl used to be listed there along with the other two Democratic candidates, but has mysteriously disappeared. It should be noted that that several local papers such as the Coventry Courier, Warwick Beacon, Woonsocket Call and Pawtucket Times do a great job of covering ALL of the U.S. Senate candidates.

Not all voters are going to pull the lever for Carl Sheeler. But shouldn’t they make that decision for themselves instead of letting the Democratic Party or the media do it for them?

letters@projo.com letter to the editor, Providence Journal
info@dscc.org contact for Democrfatic Senatorial Campaign Committee
dwest@insidepolitics.org Darrell West, Inside politics (Brown Univ. Polls)

Be well,

Sara

Fighting Back: What kind of country do we want for all Americans?

2006-02-22T12:34:00.000-05:00

Many of us are angry and divided. Today's radical politics have changed the rules of fairness. It's more about power, not progress. It's more about appealing to prejudices and fears. It's more broken promises and lying to the public. It's been about special interests, not public interest. Religion and values belong to all parties, not one.

The largest threat to our future and our kids' futures are big corporations. ”K” Street capitalism has replaced Democracy as the largest threat to citizen power. Money is replacing ideas as the currency of politics. We have to stop the corporate wish list being our Congress' to-do list. Our elected officials need to spend time in our communities, not just Capitol Hill.

My friends and neighbors are Democrats, Republicans and Independents and their opinions matter. We're not enemies, so let's talk about possibilities. There's plenty of room for improvement and it's time to try something different. We're facing the need for a grassroots revolution. Politics must put people first by solving shared problems with common sense solutions.

Common sense is pervasive in countries where there are thriving communities with job creation, affordable housing, good schools, and the elderly maintaining quality of life. It's about healthcare, not corporate welfare. It's about workers not paying for executives' leadership errors. It's muscular domestic security managed by Americans. It's a foreign policy that respects our allies and achieves energy independence. It's higher mileage vehicles, not drilling.

Education is a shared community responsibility. How about tax cuts for corporations that create jobs and contribute to worker education in the United States? How about higher tax deductions for charitable giving to fund education? How about permanent tax cuts for the middle class so we can pay for our higher energy and education costs?

How about rolling back Bush's tax cuts for millionaires and billionaires? That will return trillions of dollars to our federal budget. It'll end deficit spending and begin national healthcare. We're the richest nation in the world. "We can have democracy in this country, or we can have great wealth in the hands of a few, but we can't have both."

Now that is a country worth fighting for, worth dying for. Is this your American dream? It's mine.

Marriage Equality Should be So 20th Century

2006-02-15T08:02:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I attended a rally at the RI statehouse that would be the envy of most political action organizations. There were at least 300 - 500 straight and GLBT attendees who need not be convinced citizen equality ought to include same gender marriages.

So there is no doubt where I stand on this issue, I am for marriage equality and would advocate for the promotion and protection of these rights. My reasons are really very simple. I don't consider it a gender or relationship issue. I consider it a human rights, dignity and discrimination issue. The proposed law is not asking heterosexual people to sacrifice their personal choices or religious beliefs, but this seems to be the obstacle of many legislators.

Examined from the opponents perspective, it tends to be about religious beliefs. I ask nobody to change their personal beliefs, if they are uncomfortable with the elasticity of their own values. Prejudice, bias and preconceived notions are powerful roadblocks between a person's mind and their heart. Ethnic, gender and age civil rights struggles required overcoming these objections. But diversity does not have to be divisive.

Divisive principles that are then enforced by law do not unite us. I'd argue that the same thing holds true for institutions of religion. The difference is I do not believe anyone is asking for these institutions to change their beliefs nor should those who hold these institutional beliefs use our laws to forward their agendas on the free public striving to be one community.

A continuum of commotion and confusion

2006-02-13T19:22:00.000-05:00

This past week was a political and personal rollercoaster. Between radio talk and television talk shows, going to a nurses and REAL ID press conference, teaching the finer points of finance, getting my livelihood done and recent exchanges on the net, there was just enough time for the rest of the people in my life and a few nods of rest.

I have to say thanks to Chad and Kat, who have lent support this past week as well as a kind broadcast by Dr. R who seriously questioned the accuracy of political polls making the rounds in RI and out of state last week. Thanks to Rebecca for providing advance notice so we could be a supporter of the Black Heritage gathering this weekend. There had to have been 400+ people there. Thanks to Ingrid, Janis, Nomi, "Stella", my wife and well wishers, who have really loved our Be Patriotic Impeach Bush Billboard on I-95. It IS a release.

A funny thing, too. Mayor C- is at almost all the events I get to and likely more. Kudos to him. I saw Senator Metts and Rep. Fox, but who has been woefully absent to these events are many members from the General Assembly and its leadership. What are the odds of such infrequent attendance by the House Speaker and Senate President to many of these events I have been to these past several months? They don't just represent their districts in these leadership positions. This absence of a united coalition is what allows for GOP wins.

Some say Matt and Sheldon don't attend, because they already have name recognition. What the hell does that say? That's like saying the best leaders are the ones with money or access to it. Leadership is being among the people, not above the people. Using this logic, once elected, one does not have to be accessible, which has been the case by some. I saw first hand Matt Brown get slammed for his absence in his duties as Secretary of State at a press conference this past week. I saw him wearing a scruffy sports jacket, shirt and tie, as he "crashed" a black tie event, so he could get 10 minutes of face time. I wonder why the press has not blasted both candidates for dropping the ball on the War in Iraq and my renewed challenge that this issue is still worthy of debate. Where's the leadership?

This kind of politics is clearly not the way of connecting with people and building trust; especially, if the motivations are so inauthentic? Sheldon? Matt?

Gotta love the ProJo - Sheeler 0%, or one vote at a time

2006-02-09T12:18:00.000-05:00

One thing I learned about surveys; especially those where a few television commercials change a person's mind and the survey's results (when no other tangible events have occurred), they're only as good as the questions prepared, asked, answered and by whom.

It's really very scientific, too. 323 respondents with most not responding from what part of the state? Hmmm. We know it was conducted before our "BE PATRIOTIC, IMPEACH BUSH" billboard went up on I-95 and that respondents were "likely" to vote in a primary, but this isn’t the same as actually contacting primary voters. While our own survey indicated a 30% Sheeler vote (not 0%), we at least included a caveat that the results might be biased because we conducted it. Such is politics . . .

I thank the ProJo because it consistently reflects how insipidly low this publication will go to further their cause for their candidate - Lincoln Chafee. Yes, remember that his wife has ties to Belo/ProJo - no impartiality there. Sadly, our local TV networks and weekly papers do little more than follow the ProJo’s lead instead of doing some digging into the survey or some actual investigative journalism as to the numbers and methodology behind the results.

On the other hand, if I accept that 0% is just what it says, then the good news is when I achieve one vote – pretty sure my wife will cast her vote for me – then it'll grow by 100% and then my vote gives me another 100%, you get the idea. It shows I'm the dark horse, political outsider, underdog. I like that because this is who I am fighting for. I wonder why Steve Young was not included since the ProJo reported on his announcement, never mind . . .

My only hope is that the public votes for who they feel will best represent their issues with solid leadership and authenticity. Otherwise they will be wasting their votes on a field of soft candidates whose only claim to fame will be how much money they can collectively spend to convince you they're anything but who they are - more of the same with ProJo's help.

Bush Republican’t. We Can!

2006-02-07T11:49:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, United States Attorney General Alberto Gonzales provided damning testimony in response to concerns about the president's domestic spying program. It’s interesting to note Republican U.S. Senator Arlen Spector, who is the chairman of the Senate Judiciary, has plainly stated President Bush violated the law by wire-tapping thousands of innocent Americans, few of whom were actually terrorist suspects. This alone is an impeachable offense. I’m unwilling to wait. You should not either. Act!

As has been the case with other violations of executive authority, the president has acted above our laws – excuses be damned. Requests for documentation are being denied and investigations are being stonewalled. This should cause nonpartisan outrage by the public and members of Congress. It is a continual reminder of how our Constitution has eroded under this administration. It is further evidence that solid leadership and not soft rhetoric is sorely needed. Otherwise, the public’s perception will be that the only time their voice is heard is when the outcome is a sure thing. That’s not leadership!

Our elected officials must understand that leadership is not gaining power through special deals at the exclusion of the public. It's our Senators’ jobs to act as a check on the president's power all the time. If they can't do it, they, or candidates running for office, shouldn't be in Washington. This is how the disconnect between leadership and represented occurs.

Last evening I spoke before a Democratic town committee meeting. I argued that we have to be united and act on absolute convictions of what we know is right and wrong – not just sure things. Anything else provides a watered down result. I was challenged because I had the audacity to question a system that relies on the other side’s losses for us to achieve wins. To lead, we need our own agenda that addresses the public’s needs, fears and hopes, not a select few who confuse being in charge with leading.

I believe the public is inspired to share the responsibility of good government. I am asking for their support to challenge those who take comfort in business as usual.

Roe V. Wade: An "At Risk" 33-Year Position that May Need Updating

2006-01-22T13:01:00.000-05:00

No great surprise, this Sunday's Projo had not one single item addressing Roe on its 33rd anniversary today despite the fact that two-thirds of Rhode Islanders support choice. This is why I also subscribe to the New York Times. There are many occasions when others say it best - this is one of them. The authors William Saletan and William Baude share some salient, proactive thoughts that we who oppose Alito may want to consider if conservatives succeed in controlling our Supreme Court and his nomination is ratified. The issue both sides ought to agree upon is that fewer unwanted pregnancies is best.

It's unfortunate these ideas were not publicly or widely advertised by Planned Parenthood, NOW, Center for Reproductive Rights or NARAL or other groups who seek to achieve equality for women and keep government out of our bedrooms. I say “women” not out of gender bias, but simply because men don't get pregnant.

First, I think many agree that controlling reproductive rights is about as idealistic and practical as demanding abstinence. We don't need moral beliefs to become legislated. I think women, as well as men, should be trusted to make good choices. Just think 150 years ago slavery was a moral battle that cost thousands of lives. Interestingly, many people from states that supported slavery now often use religious morality to argue against choice. Clearly, morality often crosses the boundary of church and state. Any implementation of restrictions would force a state by state definition of what women can and cannot do. Those who disagree with more restrictive state laws are simply likely to travel to more lenient states to circumvent them, which in turn will likely impose Draconian, long-arm restrictions and penalties on women's interstate travel.

In places such as England, the issue did not focus on a women's right to choose, but how to minimize unwanted pregnancies in the first place. I ask that we choose not to grow complacent, which only defers dealing with these problems. Increasing awareness of the choices available before and after pregnancy such as contraception and morning after pills is ideal. This type of family planning is a moral balance upon which most can agree. In order to achieve this reasonable and noble goal there must be protection of the Title X federal funds and adequate access to healthcare through to the point of the choice of delivery and adoption.

I'd rather see this option than the more costly one where our courts are overwhelmed with new disputes and our often fumbling, predominantly male politicians get their mitts on the issue and start setting patch work policies that will certainly do more harm to women than less.

Sheeler: Martin Luther King's Dream is Global. It's about Citizen Equality.

2006-01-15T11:01:00.000-05:00

King's Dream is at the heart of our forefathers' Constitution: "life, liberty and pursuit of happiness". Our own political divisiveness using choice, same gender marriage and immigration may leave us behind as other nations pursue enduring global partnerships. Some argue a utopian society is one where we’re all the same. Some point to countries that are largely homogenous. Some argue for socialism or communism.

Having lived in different cities with culturally and economically diverse populations leads me to a different conclusion. Our country’s strength will always be the opportunity, if not the responsibility, to embrace citizen equality. Our country’s history has had centuries of fits and starts as different peoples arrived and our population expanded bringing economic growth. Most sought freedoms and economic mobility and still does.

Sadly, toxic resistance to new immigrants, new ideas and new cultures inhibits equality. The worst response is open discrimination. The best response goes beyond acceptance. Such arguments come from minority icons like Martin Luther King, Jr. and Cesar Chavez beginning in the 50’s and 60’s. They dedicated their lives to sensitizing us to the notion their fears and struggles were not so different than our own. Today, it’s still education, healthcare, wage and tax policy imbalances. These are our problems. Deep inside we understand about our own fears – usually of failing, loss of control or safety.

So amazingly, Dr. King mobilized enough concerned citizens to fill the Washington mall with his now famous “I have a dream” speech. Why has it been enduring? It replaced our fears with the sense of hope and dignity that comes with pursuing our individual dreams. In my career, I have had occasions to command large units of U.S. Marines. In the Corps, there are many shades of color, but they’re all green and we all bleed red. Most who’ve served in uniform know this to be true. That connection builds a durable trust. Our lives depend on it.

We’re definitely at a crossroads in our country. Some say we’re hurdling into an abyss that King, Chavez and many of our fallen have fought to overcome. During the current administration, sex and religion have been used as potent political weapons. First, it was the divisive issue of “choice”. I have long held that this judgmental argument reverts back to control and fear which lead to discrimination towards principally poor women. This prejudice was followed by veiled “gay marriage wedge issues” by homophobes directed towards a small population of our country. More of the “with us or against us” mentality. . .

Undoubtedly, as global thinking becomes more pervasive, our planet seems smaller. The European Union as well as Arab, African, Asian and Latin nations all want a slice of the economic prosperity pie. Does it make sense, when alliances ought to be at a premium, that our Latin neighbors and their immigrants to our country are becoming political pawns? What’s your dream? Mine is economic growth that values citizen equality and dignity both here and abroad.

Sheeler: A "Normal" Day in a RI US Senate Campaign

2006-01-06T09:06:00.000-05:00

Yesterday morning I met with a man respected in his community. He wanted to form a committee to help me gain support. He is a tailor and his wife is a daycare provider. He used to work for the state, but suffered a work related injury. He has two wonderful sons with the youngest a creative artist and an aspiring karate master as well as a junior Marine.

I was informed in my next meeting I would not be on Howard Dean's host committee when he arrives to Rhode Island for a DNC fundraiser on the 27th of this month. I asked why. Some in the party leadership don't know “where I'm coming from”. This is a euphemism for what do you have on those you want supporting you or what do they have on you? Basically, what’s in it for you. Not surprising for a political outsider. For the record, I'm running as a middle class, family man who directly feels the impact of our government's failure to keep its promises. Hundreds of billions of dollars have been spent on the Iraq War; that money comes from cuts in education, home heating subsidies, Medicare and domestic security. Few politicians acknowledge we're in an economic tsunami with tens of thousands of us working more and earning less, thanks in part to our increased property taxes. Matt Brown's cute commercial even suggests some of these issues, but like most feel good ads, no proposed, muscular solutions.

Rhode Island as a small state of stagnant population and economic growth is vulnerable to under funded pension burdens and unfunded educational mandates. Many households have already accessed their home's equity to make ends meet and just seem to accept large companies’ tax credits and wealth tax cuts. Our leaders won’t acknowledge the scope of the problem or develop a three-year plan to fix it. Otherwise, our state is looking at having a junk/high-risk bond rating. This is why we don't have new businesses coming to the state and residents choosing to leave.

The rewarding thing last evening was being one of the hosts for LADO’s Latino Dollars for Scholars program, where we heard how education is the most important aspect of our future - our children. These are seriously bright and motivated kids. Ironically, on the rare occasion I agree with Bush, despite wanting him impeached, he's asking to invest millions of dollars into language training. Sadly, not to augment one of the fiscal drains on our tightened education budgets, but so Chinese, Russian and Arabic, all languages of countries who pose a potential threat to our security, are taught. Maybe he'll be told by the bipartisan meeting of former Secretaries of State that diplomacy and less rhetoric is a universal language even those of us without an ivy league education understand.

Loss of Balance of Powers Makes Bush an Emperor

2006-01-04T16:08:00.000-05:00

I attended, belatedly (root canal) a meeting held by Rhode Island for a Fair Judiciary concerning Alito's nomination to the US Supreme Court. Members of the Sierra Club (environmentalists) and the AFL-CIO were there as well as Planned Parenthood. I was hoping to see a more robust attendance but understand people are busy and have schedule conflicts. I wrote a brief position paper at my website (www.carlsheeler.com) titled "Alito: If GOP Conservatives Win, Not only do Women Lose, We all do."

I want to convey this sentiment as clearly and simply as possible. From up close this nomination might only mean another jurist on the federal bench, but it's much, much more! The conservative GOP controls two of the three branches of the federal government. (if you don't count media like the ProJo). The only branch not yet controlled is the judicial branch.

Alito's 15+ history on the federal bench has demonstrated a consistent pattern of supporting executive decisions (read Presidency). Should Alito replace the more moderate O'Connor, very little would prevent a proposal from Congress or the President to promote a constitutional amendment whereby Bush could hold office for more than two terms, declare martial law, spy on, arrest or hold without due process citizens who oppose "his" government.

Given how much the media (such as the Belo owned ProJo in RI) influences the message or even if it is seen, people will go about their business not aware of just how dire this outcome could be to their lives; something severe. How about abolishing minimum wage? Too late, it's done in New Orleans right now. How about offshore drilling near our coast despite the environmental impact? Now you start to see why labor and environmental groups are coming together to oppose this nomination.

Who’s left? Who matters most? Every day people, who are exhausted because they’re working more and getting less, because its the same politicians that rely on the public indifference to stifle things that might improve our lives like universal healthcare, quality education (funding) or parental leave that I discussed in my recent press release.

In a nutshell, we're screwing the future of our kids and if we forfeit social security by privatizing it, we're screwing our parents, grandparents and ourselves should the executive branch decide to enact a law to do just that. The audacity of the lies to invade Iraq, oil industry gouging and the benefits to certain contractors, finance and banking industries would pale in comparison to the wholesale shifting of trillions of dollars of commissionable investment (income) whose costs would be hundreds of billions of dollars while actuarially, there is nothing wrong with social security despite what several hen pecked "experts" have suggested that could be taken care of by some small tweaks, not a complete overhaul.

Remember this is the administration that had alert warnings regularly leading up to the 2004 election and suddenly there are no more terrorist threats. I guess London and Madrid just didn't get the word or maybe just Osama din Laden and Al Qaeda.

I'm not a rebel or reactionary. I am a U.S. Marine vet, business man and a pragmatist who loves this country more than power. I turned down a sure win for election to a State Senate seat that was offered on a platter to me. It would be immaterial if I won, if we, as a people are not more in sync with what many of these federal politicians are doing to my/our country. In a nutshell, that's why I'm running. What are you willing to do to make a difference?

Learning from the Past, Planning for the Future

2006-01-03T10:07:00.000-05:00

Like millions of Americans I had a year of ups and downs with the holidays often summing it up quite nicely. And like millions of Americans I made New Years' resolutions and really, really hope (and will endeavor) to stick to them. Those for 2005 were to maintain and improve relations with members of my family and those I am/were related to by marriage or blood, read more and watch less television, do more to improve others' lives, become more fit by running a marathon and renew my wedding vows in Scotland, where my wife and I were married. All in all I think I did reasonably well. My resolutions for 2006 include continuing to pursue saving and bringing home many of our deployed troops, advocating on behalf of minorities, women and the underrepresented, strive to make at least 100 lives better with the goal of asking these people to do the same, improve the quality of my own body, spirit, and mind, and win the Democratic Primary for US Senate. If you're going to live, live LARGE.

As I shared, my wife and I have a blended family from prior marriages. Our eldest daughter is recently married and lives in Arizona with her husband who aspires to be an anesthesiologist (yep, had to spell check that one). Our second eldest lives in Florida with her Mom and step-dad. She's the one who was accepted to Northwestern. Our relationship has its ups and downs. The interesting thing is with the help of my former State Senate opponent, my fist wife has been put in touch with my second wife, who has had no contact with her for almost a dozen years, presumably to see what they can brew up. Mind you my first wife and I haven't been together going on 16 years. Our foreign exchange student was in Florida visiting with family during Christmas. My wife’s and my parents are to the winds (my dad passed away almost a decade ago, so I'm in the market for a "Dutch Uncle/Rabbi"). My Mom lives in Pennsylvania and sister just outside of DC. Most of us are getting together today to celebrate the holidays as a family. Such is politics in public as it is in private. Most who believe those running for office are without flaws are setting the stage for hypocrisy, so I'd rather skip that act.

The good thing is my kids have been able to exchange gifts and emails with little help on my part. Our third eldest son visited his sister in Arizona for the holidays and recently chose to live with an aunt to finish out his high school in California. Our two youngest (boy and girl) were with their mom during the holidays as we alternate them each year. By and large, this seems to work for them and keeping the peace is preferable to the alternative of making lawyers richer. This reminds me I failed to mention restraint is as much a female "strength" as it is a male, characteristic in my Alito - GOP Conservative letter to the editor.

Finally, I think a meeting I had yesterday while my family sat down for lunch and two recent press excerpts posted today on the website sort of sum things up. Ian Donnis of the Providence Phoenix, in his interview with me, suggested I was polite and showed humility. This has been no small feat, because I was often larger than life until I met my wife who is as centered a person as I've ever met. She has taught me to be a better man, really. My lunch guest shared two observations, I need to "pump up the volume (passion)" to allow people to feel what I have to say, because he thinks my message is on the money. The other thing he shared is some at the HI-Hat gathering did not want to have their pictures taken because they were perceived to be Whitehouse and Brown supporters and some were afraid of losing their municipal jobs and/or contracts. If this is true, just how pathetic has politics become? The two excerpts were from the Woonsocket Call and the New York Sun. In the former, the staffer suggests offhandedly how the press should be providing more coverage because of the things I have shared, but doesn't state why it isn’t. On the other hand, an out-of-state paper based on polls from the Chafee camp has suggested I would beat Laffey in a general election and rightfully described me, not Matt Brown, as the "bring home the troops" advocate. So like most this year, we'll plug along and do our best to make a difference.