tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49117460383184567362024-02-19T04:30:44.279-05:00Political WatchKeeping a closer eye on local and state government politics.About this blog:http://www.blogger.com/profile/06966335735120190138noreply@blogger.comBlogger581125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-47950917011605333012014-04-11T09:09:00.000-04:002014-04-11T09:09:00.609-04:00Manatee County commission, school board incumbents hold large fund-raising leadsIncumbents running for re-election to either the Manatee County Commission or the Manatee County School Board continue to hold large-fund-raising leads over their respective challengers,<a href="http://www.votemanatee.com/Candidate-Information/Local-Candidates-Committees.aspx"> according to the latest campaign finance filings.</a><br />
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The latest reports, due this week, cover activity between Jan. 1 to March 31.<br />
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Here's a breakdown:<br />
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<ul>
<li>In Manatee County Commission District 2, incumbent Democrat Michael Gallen reported collecting almost $8,100 in the first quarter of 2014, bringing his total haul so far to more than $13,300. Combined, his three Democratic challengers -- former commissioner Gwen Brown, Corie Holmes and Charles B. Smith -- have raised a total of about $2,900.</li>
<li>In Manatee County Commission District 4, incumbent Republican Robin DiSabatino reported raising only $1,725 in the first quarter of this year -- but that was on top of the $31,000 she had raised in earlier reporting periods. Her GOP challenger, Tim Norwood, reported receiving no contributions in the most recent reporting period. Earlier, he had reported raising a total of $11,475 -- most of which came in the form of money he loaned to his campaign.</li>
<li>In Manatee County Commission District 6, which covers the entire county, incumbent Republican Carol Whitmore reported raising $2,600 in the first quarter of 2014, adding to the more than $49,000 she had reported earlier. Democratic challenger Terri Wonder reported raising $1,180 in the most recent reporting period, adding to the more than $5,300 she had collected earlier.</li>
<li>In Manatee County School Board District 2, Rodney Jones reported collecting $220 in contributions, bringing his total take to $1,710. He currently is the only candidate for the seat now held by Barbara Harvey.</li>
<li>In Manatee County School Board District 5, Julie Aranibar raised more than $4,200 in contributions in the first quarter of 2014, bringing her total haul to more than $5,700. Challenger Carlton "Les" Nichols reported $150 in contributions this past quarter, bringing his total to more than $2,300.</li>
</ul>
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You can view the reports, which include the names of contributors, <a href="http://www.votemanatee.com/Candidate-Information/Local-Candidates-Committees.aspx">here</a>.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-29547490711110316282014-01-30T14:38:00.002-05:002014-01-30T14:38:21.633-05:00U.S. Senate votes to delay flood insurance hikes<div class="MsoNormal tr_bq" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; margin-bottom: 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">From U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla. on Thursday:</span></div>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The U.S. Senate today approved rate-hike relief for millions of homeowners covered by the government’s flood insurance program.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">By a vote of 67-32, lawmakers approved legislation advanced by Sen. Bill Nelson<span style="color: #1f497d;">. </span>The bill would delay many of the flood insurance rate increases for four years, during which time the country's distaster agency, FEMA, would be required to study the affordability of policies and re-evaluate the accuracy of new flood maps.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">“We are finally coming to the point at which we can grant homeowners and businesses some relief from the huge, gargantuan – sometimes tenfold – increases in flood insurance premiums,” Nelson said.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Florida Democrat and Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-LA) led the charge for a rate-hike delay.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Congress provided some relief for some of the affected homeowners last month when it passed the $1.1 trillion government funding bill. </span> </blockquote>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Language in that budget bill prevents the government from spending any money for the remainder of this fiscal year to enforce higher premiums on homeowners who would have seen them under new flood maps. And it gives FEMA 60 days to provide Congress with a report on ways to keep rates more affordable.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">But, according to Nelson, that was only a partial solution that the legislation passed today seeks to remedy.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1f497d;"><u></u><u></u></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The higher flood rates are the result of Congress having passed the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012. It was intended to make the flood insurance program more financially sound. The program was in a downward spiral exacerbated by damage caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The measure the Senate passed today still must pass the House where tea party members have said they intend to defeat it.</span></blockquote>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-29531803651203048912014-01-30T10:04:00.000-05:002014-01-30T10:04:50.224-05:00Manatee elections office has certified almost 15,000 medical pot signaturesThe Manatee County Supervisor of Elections has certified 14,746 of the 21,595 petitions it received in support of medical marijuana amendment, Supervisor Mike Bennett said Thursday.<br />
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The measure last week had enough petition signatures for the November 2014 ballot, and the Florida Supreme Court earlier this week ruled <a href="http://www.bradenton.com/2014/01/28/4959053/state-supreme-court-rules-pot.html">the ballot language meets all legal requirements.</a><br />
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Statewide, the measure needed 683,149 valid petition signatures by Feb. 1 to qualify for the ballot.<br />
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Bennett said his office had certified 8,420 of 11,075 petition signatures received for a water and and conservation amendment.<br />
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“My staff has worked hard verifying these two petitions over the last 6 months," Bennett said in a news release. "Both amendments will appear on the November 2014 ballot."Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-42786160986648440752014-01-29T11:38:00.003-05:002014-01-29T11:38:58.690-05:00Buchanan votes for farm bill, touts $250 million for citrus greening research<div class="tr_bq">
<b>U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Sarasota</b>, on Wednesday voted for <a href="http://www.bradenton.com/2014/01/29/4961288/house-to-vote-on-final-farm-bill.html">the new 5-year farm bill</a>, touting the <a href="http://www.bradenton.com/2014/01/28/4959083/farm-bill-adds-funds-for-citrus.html">money it includes for research on citrus greening</a>, a disease threatening Florida's most valuable cash crop.</div>
<br />
Here's a news release from Buchanan's office.<br />
<blockquote>
WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-FL, today voted to provide vital research funding to combat citrus greening – the deadly bacterial disease crippling Florida’s citrus industry. The five-year Farm Bill, which passed the House 251-166, includes $125 million in mandatory funding and an additional $125 million in discretionary funding -- all devoted to finding a citrus greening cure. </blockquote>
<blockquote>
“Today’s vote is a win for the Florida citrus industry and Florida jobs,” said Buchanan, the author of House legislation (H.R. 853) to combat citrus greening. “Finding a cure for this destructive disease is vital to maintaining a strong economy and protecting jobs right here at home. This measure represents a crucial step forward by securing a sustainable funding source necessary to combat this pervasive disease.” </blockquote>
<blockquote>
As the top citrus producing state in the nation, the Florida citrus industry generates $9 billion in economic activity and employs nearly 76,000 people. Sarasota and Manatee counties alone support $994 million in economic activity and employ 8,700 workers. </blockquote>
<blockquote>
“This critical funding is a wise investment in one of Florida’s signature industries,” said Michael W. Sparks, Chief Executive Officer of Florida Citrus Mutual. “I cannot thank Congressman Buchanan enough for his tireless work on this issue.” </blockquote>
<blockquote>
Buchanan is the author of separate House legislation, supported by every Florida Democrat and Republican, to provide federal funding for citrus greening research.
Citrus greening first appeared in Florida citrus groves in 2005, spreading to all 32 citrus-growing counties across the state within just two years. It now affects crops in California, Texas, Arizona, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and Hawaii.
Florida is currently suffering from the smallest orange crop harvest in 24 years. </blockquote>
<blockquote>
The measure now goes to the Senate for a vote.</blockquote>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-80458120957241459392014-01-22T11:04:00.004-05:002014-01-22T11:04:39.463-05:00Poll shows Florida Gov. Rick Scott gaining on Democratic challenger Charlie Crist<span style="font-family: inherit;">Marc Caputo of the Miami Herald reports on <a href="http://miamiherald.typepad.com/nakedpolitics/2014/01/ppp-rick-scott-gaining-ground-10-points-since-september-on-charlie-crist.html#more">the latest poll on the race for Florida governor:</a></span><br />
<div class="entry-body" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Gov. Rick Scott</b> is gaining ground on <b>former Gov. Charlie Crist</b> in the latest survey from Public Policy Polling, which shows the Democrat leads the incumbent by just 2 percentage points.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">In late September, when PPP last polled the Florida race, Crist led by 12 points.</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">That net loss of 10 for Crist is fueled in great part by Republicans, who appear to be coming home to the once-deeply unpopular Scott.</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">GOP voters have shifted 22 points in Scott’s direction as the governor solidifies his base, according to a comparison of the two surveys by the firm, which tends to poll for Democrats and liberals.</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The poll indicates Democrats have shifted 9 points in Scott’s favor. Independents have barely changed on balance. Put it all together, and Crist’s 58-30 percent lead in September is now 43-41.</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Scott’s improvement was bound to happen in Florida, an evenly divided state where close elections are the norm. Indeed, Scott isn't a strong candidate. He barely beats former Weston state Sen. Nan Rich, a Democrat, 40-34 percent.</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Still, Scott's fortunes appear to be improving along with the overall condition of the economy.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Scott and the Republican Party of Florida also spent money on paid TV ads in November bashing Crist, once a Republican governor, as an “opportunist.”</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span>Recently, the campaign and party have shifted focus and tied Crist closer to Obamacare, which likely helps drive GOP voters farther away from Crist.</blockquote>
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<a href="" id="more" style="background-color: white; color: #1a2732; font-family: arial, helvetica, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #1a2732; font-family: arial, helvetica, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"></span><br />
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<br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Read more here: http://miamiherald.typepad.com/nakedpolitics/2014/01/ppp-rick-scott-gaining-ground-10-points-since-september-on-charlie-crist.html#more#storylink=cpy</div>
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PPP also surveyed voters about Obamacare, same-sex marriage, guns, as well as the statewide race for attorney general. Read more <a href="http://miamiherald.typepad.com/nakedpolitics/2014/01/ppp-rick-scott-gaining-ground-10-points-since-september-on-charlie-crist.html#more">here</a>.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-78870095589416204692014-01-14T09:11:00.000-05:002014-01-14T09:11:06.705-05:00Rep. Vern Buchanan recovering after back surgery<br />
U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan is recovering after undergoing surgery Monday to repair a herniated disc in his back.<br />
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"The operation was successful and the congressman is expected to make a full and speedy recovery," his office said Tuesday morning in a news release.<br />
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Buchanan, 62, on Saturday postponed a scheduled appearance in Holmes Beach after his office said he had thrown out his back.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-75168058062365845102014-01-13T10:39:00.003-05:002014-01-13T10:39:56.046-05:00National seniors group hits TV airwaves with ad in support of Blake Medical Center's trauma centerThe 60Plus Association, <a href="http://keepseniorssafe.com/saveourtraumacenters/">a national seniors advocacy group, has hit the airwaves</a> to rally support for Blake Medical Center in Bradenton and other Florida hospitals fighting <a href="http://www.bradenton.com/2014/01/04/4918716/blake-vows-to-keep-trauma-center.html">an effort to force them to close their trauma centers:</a><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Despite all the uncertainty and heated rhetoric coming out of Washington, D.C., Florida is fortunate to still have autonomy over one of the most crucial pieces of its healthcare system- its trauma network. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
But if taxpayer-funded hospitals have their way, your local trauma center will be shut down leaving you, your family, your friends and your entire community without access to life-saving trauma care.
This move to shut down privately-funded trauma centers is a prime example of anti-competitive behavior by publically-funded institutions that threatens to decrease access to life-saving care and drive up health care costs.</blockquote>
St. Joseph's Hospital and Tampa General Hospital recently filed motions with the First District Court of Appeals in Tallahassee to ask the court to close the trauma centers at Blake Medical Center in Manatee and Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point in Pasco, citing their own economic hardships if the new centers stay open, said Stephen Ecenia, an attorney representing Blake Medical Center, <a href="http://www.bradenton.com/2014/01/04/4918716/blake-vows-to-keep-trauma-center.html">said earlier this month.</a><br />
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The filings were the latest move in a three-year legal battle by the publicly-funded hospitals to shutter their competitors' trauma centers. As the wrangling continues, Blake's trauma center remains open.<br />
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<a href="http://60plus.org/floridians-new-years-resolution-save-our-trauma-centers/">The 60Plus Association says it plans to spend $250,000</a> on ads defending the new trauma centers, targeting television viewers in the Tampa, Ocala and Tallahassee media markets:<br />
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The 60 Plus Association, <a href="http://60plus.org/about/">which on its website</a> acknowledges its reputation as a "conservative alternative" to the AARP, is "a non-partisan seniors advocacy group with a free enterprise, less government, less taxes approach to seniors issues."Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-13303162440799960892014-01-10T09:42:00.005-05:002014-01-10T09:42:44.107-05:00Despite apparent decline in wealth, Rep. Vern Buchanan still one of Congress' richest members<b>U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan</b>, R-Sarasota, in 2012 slipped from fifth place to sixth in the latest look at the wealth of members of the U.S. House.<br />
<br />
Determining a lawmaker's exact wealth is difficult because representatives and senators only have to report their assets and liabilities in broad ranges.<a href="http://www.opensecrets.org/pfds/"> The Center for Responsive Politic</a>s, which compiles information gathered from publicly available disclosure forms, derives an average to develop its rankings.<br />
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<a href="http://www.opensecrets.org/pfds/CIDsummary.php?CID=N00027626&year=2012">In 2012, CRP said Buchanan's wealth</a> was somewhere between a minimum net worth of minus $58.1 million to more than $235.7 million, for an average of $88.8 million, <a href="http://www.opensecrets.org/pfds/CIDsummary.php?CID=N00027626&year=2011">down from $108.2 million a year earlier.</a><br />
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On his 2012 disclosure form, Buchanan listed 142 assets, with a value of between $58.6 million and $259.6 million. His holdings include stocks, bonds, real estate, auto dealerships and an aircraft leasing firm.<br />
<br />
He also listed 18 liabilities, mostly mortgages and other loans, worth between more than $26.9 million and $132 million.<br />
<br />
Despite the apparent decline in his wealth, Buchanan did remain in the list of 10 wealthiest members of Congress, including both the House and Senate. On that list, he fell between <b>Sen. Jay Rockefelle</b>r, D-W.Va., with an average wealth of almost $101.3 million, and <b>House Minority Leader Nancy Pelos</b>i, D-Calif., at $88 million.<br />
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The wealthiest member of Congress, according to CRP, is <b>Rep. Darrell Issa</b>, R-Calif., at more than $464.1 million.<br />
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<br />Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-72399284573288094522013-11-12T15:15:00.001-05:002013-11-12T15:16:12.392-05:00Jeb Bush endorses Gov. Rick Scott for re-election<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here's the news release from the Florida Republican Party:</span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">TALLAHASSEE, FL - Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush today released the following statement regarding the 2014 Florida gubernatorial race, endorsing Governor Rick Scott:</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">"I'm pleased to endorse Governor Scott for re-election and look forward to supporting his campaign during the coming year.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">"It's simple why I'm supporting Rick Scott. He campaigned on a platform of getting Florida's economy back on track, and has delivered on that promise.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">"Governor Scott pledged to reinstate a business-friendly climate that fosters growth and job creation. Since taking office, Florida's unemployment rate has fallen 4.1 percent, more than 365,000 jobs have been created and taxes have been cut for families and businesses.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">"While President Obama and Democrats in Congress are fixated on penalizing success, Governor Scott is pursuing policies to restore prosperity for more Floridians while prioritizing core state responsibilities, including increasing the state's investment in education.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">"Rick Scott demonstrated leadership when Florida needed it most, and he is the best candidate to lead our state for four more years."</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Governor Rick Scott said, "I am grateful to have the support and friendship of Governor Jeb Bush. His time as Governor built a strong foundation for Florida's future by making our education system more accountable and our state's economy more attractive to job creators. His positive vision for Florida continues to inspire us today as we work to cut taxes and get our economy back on track." </span></span></blockquote>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-62949706327334889342013-11-11T11:41:00.001-05:002013-11-11T11:41:43.564-05:00Tea Party group targets Rep. Vern Buchanan, other GOP 'traitors'Upset with how they voted to end the federal government shutdown, a Tea Party-affiliated group is targeting <b>Rep. Vern Buchanan</b> and other Republican "traitors" for defeat in next year's elections.<br />
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The group hopes to recruit someone to challenge Buchanan, R-Sarasota, in next year's Republican primary. So far, only Democrat Mitch Mallett of Bradenton has filed to run against Buchanan.<br />
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"Help us fund primaries to oust those who caved. Join the Primaries for Traitors Fund and help us fire the showboat RINOS ("Republicans In Name Only") for good!"<a href="http://theteapartyleadershipfund.com/stopthetraitors/"> the Tea Party Leadership Fund said on its website.</a><br />
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Buchanan and the other lawmakers raised the Tea Party's ire last month when they voted to end the federal government shutdown and to raise the nation's debt limit.<br />
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For more, watch this video from Tea Party Leadership Fund:
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-38048515638656048012013-11-07T14:05:00.002-05:002013-11-07T14:13:54.201-05:00Rep. Vern Buchanan co-sponsors bill to add oversight to National Security Agency<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>U.S. Vern Buchanan</b> on Thursday signed on as a co-sponsor of <a href="http://sensenbrenner.house.gov/legislation/theusafreedomact.htm">the USA Freedom Act</a>, legislation that he says would end the National Security Agency's "indiscriminate collection" of Americans' personal information.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">"The National Security Agency needs to stop invading the privacy of ordinary, everyday Americans," Buchanan, a member of the Congressional Privacy Caucus, said in a news release. "Our strength as a nation flows from the values and freedoms laid out in the Constitution, including the right against unreasonable searches and seizures. The USA Freedom Act institutes the proper reforms to protect the privacy and liberties of the American people."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Buchanan, R-Sarasota, said the legislation, which was introduced by Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner, R-Wis., includes the following reforms:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">End the bulk collection of Americans' communications records under Section 215 of the Patriot Act.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reform the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court by creating new and more robust reporting requirements to ensure Congress is aware of actions by the FISC and intelligence community as a whole.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Increase transparency by requiring the government to make annual or semiannual public reports estimating the total number of individuals and U.S. persons that were subject to FISA orders authorizing electronic surveillance, pen/trap devices and access to business records.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the release, Buchanan citied examples of what he called the NSA's "unprecedented invasion into the personal lives of American citizens," including the collection of hundreds of millions of Americans' telephone records, even though they are not under suspicion or investigation; and the extraction of personal information from Google, Facebook and other Internet companies.</span></div>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-21704162552204289812013-10-28T10:51:00.001-04:002013-10-28T10:51:24.119-04:00Buchanan heading into re-election campaign with a big fund-raising advantage<a href="http://www.bradenton.com/2013/10/24/4789112/bradenton-newcomer-mitch-mallett.html">Democratic candidate Mitch Mallett of Bradenton promises a hearty challenge</a> of U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan in next year's election, presuming he wins his party's nomination.<br />
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But already, he faces a daunting challenger: Buchanan's ability to raise campaign money, a prowess reinforced by his position on the House Ways & Means Committee, which among other things oversee's the nation's tax policies.<br />
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<a href="http://query.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/dcdev/forms/C00412759/891890/#SUMMARY">The latest campaign finance reports</a> filed with the Federal Elections Commission show that as of Sept. 30, the end of the most recent reporting period, Buchanan had almost $543,000 cash on hand, a measure of a candidate's viability.<br />
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Mallett, who just filed his paperwork, has not reported any financial activity for his campaign.<br />
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Buchanan built up his campaign account by taking in $167,225 in contributions between July 1 and Sept. 30, including $89,340 from individuals and $77,885 from political action and other committees.<br />
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So far this election cycle, Buchanan has raised a total $984,410 -- more than $623,000 from individuals and almost $362,000 from political committees.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-8904353178663471382013-08-21T09:44:00.002-04:002013-08-21T09:45:37.270-04:00Disturbed by reports of 'government overreach,' Rep. Vern Buchanan calls for reform of National Security AgencyHere is the news release:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-FL, today called on congressional leaders to take immediate action to reform the National Security Agency’s (NSA) surveillance programs following reports of “thousands of violations” of Americans’ privacy.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Last week, an internal NSA audit obtained by the <i>Washington Post</i> cited 2,776 incidents where the spy agency engaged in the <i>“unauthorized collection, storage, access to or distribution of legally protected communications.”</i></span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">“These latest revelations of government overreach are extremely disturbing,” said Buchanan, a member of the Congressional Privacy Caucus. “Our strength as a nation flows from the values and freedoms laid out in the Constitution, including the right against unreasonable searches and seizures. It’s imperative the both parties work together and institute reforms to protect the privacy and liberties of the American people.”</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Last month, Buchanan voted for an amendment to the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act, offered by Congressman Justin Amash of Michigan, to prevent the NSA from collecting the phone records of Americans who are not under investigation.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The chief author of the Patriot Act, Congressman James Sensenbrenner, also supported the amendment which was narrowly defeated 205-217.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The U.S. House is expected to consider the intelligence reauthorization bill this Fall, legislation Buchanan says is the appropriate vehicle for broader NSA reforms.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">“It is a slippery slope if we allow our basic freedoms to be eroded in the name of security,” said Buchanan. “The time has come for Congress to address these issues in a transparent, public manner.”</span></blockquote>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-74106222799609312642013-08-19T10:23:00.001-04:002013-08-19T10:23:36.124-04:00Democrat withdraws from Florida CFO race after news of his bankruptcies<a href="http://miamiherald.typepad.com/nakedpolitics/2013/08/braswell-withdraws-from-cfo-race-after-news-reports-of-his-bankruptcies.html">Via the Herald/Times Tallahassee Bureau:</a><br />
<div class="entry-content" style="background-color: white; color: #1a2732; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<div class="entry-body" style="color: #333333; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Democrat <strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Allie Braswell</strong>, a political unknown and Urban League official, dropped out of the race against Republican Chief Financial Officer <strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Jeff Atwater</strong> on Monday, after a weekend of news reports about his three personal bankruptcies.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The stories were first reported by the<a href="http://jacksonville.com/opinion/blog/403455/matt-dixon/2013-08-16/newly-minted-democratic-candidate-cfo-has-filed-bankruptcy" style="color: #0253b7; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_self"> Jacksonville Times Union.</a></span> </blockquote>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here's the press release from the Democratic Party:</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Tallahassee, FL — Today, CFO candidate Allie Braswell made the following statement:</span> </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Against all odds, a boy who played on dirt roads in Oviedo grew up to serve this great nation as a US Marine, and work as an senior leader at one of America's most admired companies. That is what has always inspired me to serve, to ensure that today's boys and girls can live the American Dream.</span></span> </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">At the Urban League, I work every day with people who are struggling to make it. As I have experienced struggles in my life, so many people are struggling, and that is what inspired me to run for Florida's Chief Financial Officer -- to be a champion, standing up for the poor and middle class.</span></span> </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Before I started this campaign I talked with supporters and friends and family. This weekend, I have again discussed this campaign with those I love, and have reached a decision. Today, I am withdrawing from the race for Florida's Chief Financial Officer.</span></span> </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I have, at times, faced challenges in life that have not met with the outcomes I have desired. I take full responsibility for my actions, and apologize to my supporters.</span></span> </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The bright spotlight of a statewide campaign has cast the ups and downs of my life into harsh relief, and I now know that this campaign is not the way I was meant to serve my community.</span></span> </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Running statewide is a daunting challenge for any candidate; as a political outsider, I have now learned that I underestimated how my campaign would affect those I care about most.</span></span></blockquote>
</blockquote>
</div>
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-25630641675808794762013-07-19T10:23:00.001-04:002013-07-19T10:23:55.862-04:00Rep. Vern Buchanan to hold 'listening session' in Lakewood RanchU.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Sarasota, will hold a "listening session" on jobs, spending and the economy in Lakewood Ranch on Saturday.<br />
<br />
The event is scheduled for 11 a.m. at Lakewood Ranch Town Hall, 8175 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.<br />
<br />
To RSVP, call 941-951-6643.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-49861524801383401452013-07-18T16:02:00.001-04:002013-07-18T17:33:43.554-04:00Gov. Rick Scott says 'No' to changing Florida's 'stand your ground' law<div class="tr_bq">
From Bay News 9, the governor today in Tampa:</div>
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/35zC3T0tOSU" width="560"></iframe></center>
<br />
Charles Schelle of the Bradenton Herald filed this after Scott appeared at a business roundtable at Mixon Fruit Farm in Bradenton:<br />
<blockquote>
Before any reporters could ask Scott, Ernie Withers, general manager of Mercedes-Benz of Sarasota asked what many in this country has on its mind: Will the Florida governor repeal the Stand Your Ground law? </blockquote>
<blockquote>
Scott didn't answer the question, and instead retold his history of involvement with the case, but said that the "process was right." </blockquote>
<blockquote>
"We have a jury system that is a sacred part of our country, and these six women put their lives on hold, and it had to be a tough, emotional case. They did their job," Scott said. "I can’t imagine losing a 17-year-old. I got daughters 28 and 30, and I have a grandson and two more on the way. I would not lose one of them, and I’m sure that family, their lives has changed. We should mourn with them."</blockquote>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-44333670841270362392013-07-18T10:07:00.000-04:002013-07-18T10:10:40.180-04:00Gov. Rick Scott to visit Bradenton on ThursdayGov. Rick Scott on Thursday will hold a business roundtable with business leaders from Manatee and Sarasota counties at Mixon Fruit Farms.<br />
<br />
About 60-70 people representing the counties' chambers of commerce and tourist bureaus are expected for the event, which is scheduled for 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Mixon, 2525 27th St. E., Bradenton.<br />
<br />
"We're excited," said Janet Mixon.<br />
<br />
Mixon said the meeting will take place in the deli section of the company's store. The store closes at 3 p.m., meaning tourists and other customers won't be able to listen in.<br />
<br />
"They wanted it to be at a business," she said. "They didn't just want a meeting room."<br />
<br />
Mixon said the roundtable was organized during the past couple of days.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-74644734129290668492013-07-10T10:21:00.000-04:002013-07-10T12:18:32.572-04:00Who paid to defeat health care sales tax in Manatee County<span style="font-family: inherit;">Follow the money, and you just might figure out who paid for the campaign that last month helped defeat a proposed sales tax increase to pay for health care programs in Manatee County.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The answers don't come easily, and they are not all entirely clear.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Most of the anti-tax fliers and automatic telephone calls received by voters before the June 18 election were organized by two groups, Manatee Against Taxation and Common Cents for Manatee, both run by Eric Robinson of Venice.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Manatee Against Taxation</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In finance reports filed recently with the Florida Division of Election, Manatee Against Taxation, reported no expenses but $115,000 in contributions -- $50,000 from Robinson's accounting firm and $65,000 from another political committee chaired by Robinson, Committee to Protect Florida's Seniors.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A separate filing by Committee to Protect Florida's Seniors shows that between April 1 and June 30, it received $66,000 in contributions from Veterans for Conservative Principles, a committee based in Tallahassee. The committee also paid Robinson's firm $250 for accounting services, according to records.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">During the same period, Veterans for Conservative Principles received $66,000 in contributions from Greenpoint Investors LLC, with a mailing address in downtown Sarasota.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">That's where the trail leading back to Manatee Against Taxation stops. Information about Greenpoint Investors LLC was not available on a Florida Department of State website.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Past contributors to Veterans for Conservative Principles include the Mosaic Co. and companies linked to Bradenton developer Carlos Beruff, but there is no indication that their contributions were spent on the anti-tax campaign.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Common Cents for Manatee</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Common Cents for Manatee reported only a single $5,000 contribution from another committee, Floridians for Ethics and Truth in Politics, based in Tallahassee. That group has been active since at least 2010, but the donation to Common Cents was the only one it made from April 1 to June 30 of this year.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Past donors to Floridians for Ethics and Truth in Politics include another committee, Citizens for Florida Prosperity, whose treasurer is Robinson.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Healthy Manatee</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b>
The campaign in favor of the health care surtax may have actually out-raised the opponents.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">New filings with the Manatee elections office show that Healthy Manatee, the committee organized to support the sales tax proposal, spent $181,100 on its campaign, much of it on its own fliers and automated telephone calls.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As previously reported, the group's biggest donors included local hospitals and others in the health care industry. UHS of Delaware, which owns Manatee Memorial and Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, and HCA, which owns Blake Medical Center, donated $75,000 each, according to records.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20.796875px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Committee for Community Leadership</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20.796875px;"><br /></b>
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">In the past, companies with ties to local hospitals have contributed to the Palmetto-based Committee for Community Leadership, whose name was mentioned on automatic telephone calls you might have received before the June 18 election.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">In the first three months of the year, Blake Medical Center donated a total of $7,000. But during the next three months, contributions and spending by CCL were minimal, according to records filed with the state.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;">The only expense was $2,813 paid to a North Carolina telecommunications company.</span></span></span>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-922121406431773372013-07-08T10:44:00.001-04:002013-07-08T10:44:13.069-04:00Rep. Vern Buchanan introduce anti-shark finning legislation<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 13px;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">From a news release:</span></i></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">WASHINGTON</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">–</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-FL, announced today that he has introduced bipartisan legislation condemning the grisly practice of shark finning. Buchanan’s resolution, H. Res. 285, has been endorsed by the Sierra Club, League of Conservation Voters, Humane Society and 31 bipartisan members of Congress.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Shark finning is the controversial practice of removing a shark’s fins, a delicacy in Asia, and discarding the live animal back into the ocean to either drown or be eaten alive by other fish. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">“The Shark fin trade promotes inhumane practices and is devastating shark populations and valuable fisheries worldwide,” said Buchanan, who serves on the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade. "My resolution brings awareness to a cruel practice that, if not stopped, will have irreparable environmental and economic consequences.”</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Shark finning is the single greatest contributor to the decline in shark populations, accounting for 60 percent of shark mortality. One third of our ocean’s sharks are threatened with extinction. The journal<i>Science</i> recently published a study in which 11 shark species in the Atlantic declined by at least 87 percent since 1970. Some species of sharks in the Gulf of Mexico have seen population declines of well over 90 percent. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">While finning is illegal in the United States, it is widely practiced worldwide to satisfy a large Asian market. Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, Florida reports that up to 73 million sharks are killed annually for their fins. While shark fins only account for 5 percent of a shark’s body weight, they are the most valuable part of the shark – selling for $500 per kilogram. Finning is perpetuated by the world demand for shark fin soup, where a bowl typically sells for $120. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Buchanan’s resolution calls for the United States to end the importation of shark fins from foreign fisheries that practice shark finning. The resolution also highlights the danger that shark finning poses to world shark populations, our oceans and to U.S. fisheries.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">As apex predators, sharks help maintain the balance of marine life populations. The collapse of shark populations have serious ecological and economic consequences. A study from the journal <i>Science</i>found that when 11 shark species in the Atlantic became nearly extinct due to overharvesting, the ecosystem was thrown out of balance. With fewer sharks, the species they prey upon, like cownose rays, dramatically increased in numbers. As the cownose ray population grew out of control, the rays destroyed the population of North Carolina bay scallops. The scallop industry in North Carolina had been thriving for over 100 years, yet after the increase in rays, the scallop industry was virtually wiped out and the scallop harvest dropped to only 13% of its highest recorded point.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Buchanan’s efforts are supported by nearly two dozen marine and wildlife conservation organizations including Mote Marine Laboratory located in the Congressman’s district.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Mote Marine Laboratory supports the conservation of sharks and the sustainable management of U.S. and foreign shark fisheries,” said Dr. Robert Hueter, Director of the National Center for Shark Research at Sarasota based Mote Marine Laboratory. “We condemn finning and over fishing of sharks and support Congressman Buchanan’s efforts to draw public attention to the need to address and end these detrimental practices.”</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">“The Humane Society of the United States applauds Congressman Buchanan’s outstanding efforts and leadership in introducing a resolution calling for an end to this cruel practice and promoting a healthy future for our oceans,” said Michael Markarian, chief program and policy officer at the Humane Society. “Sharks are apex predators who play an essential role in marine ecosystems. The cruel and ecologically devastating practice of shark finning endangers their survival—and that of the species that rely on them.”</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">“We truly appreciate the leadership displayed by Congressman Buchanan to protect sharks from the cruel and wasteful practice of finning,” said Susan Millward, Executive Director of the Animal Welfare Institute. “As top predators, sharks are key components of the marine ecosystem and with over 73 million killed for their fins yearly, they clearly need our protection.”</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">With the passage of the <i>Shark Finning Prohibition Act of 2000</i>, the United States banned finning in U.S. waters by U.S. registered vessels. To further strengthen the law and to close loopholes, President Obama signed the <i>Shark Conservation Act</i> in 2011 to prohibit any boat to carry shark fins without the corresponding number and weight of carcasses.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Organizations endorsing the “End All Shark Finning Resolution” include:</i></b><i> Sierra Club; League of Conservation Voters; US Humane Society; Animal Welfare Institute; Monterey Bay Aquarium; Humane Society International; Oceana; International Animal Rescue; Ocean Geographic Society; Shark Research Institute; Shark Conservation Society; Animal Legal Defense Fund; Shark Attack Survivors; Shark Savers; Sharkprotect; Shark Whisperers; WildAid; British Divers Marine Life Rescue; Lobby for Animals; and SandyHook SeaLife Foundation.<br /><u></u><u></u></i></span><b><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></i></b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Original co-sponsors to the “End All Shark Finning Resolution” include:</i></b><i> Jared Huffman (D-CA); Sam Farr (D-CA); Linda T. Sánchez (D-CA); Alan Lowenthal (D-CA); Tony Cardenas (D-CA); Jackie Speier (D-CA); Julia Brownely (D-CA); Zoe Lofgren (D-CA); George Miller (D-CA); Scott Peters (D-CA); Lois Capps (D-CA); Michael Grimm (R-NY); Carolyn Maloney (D-NY); Jerrold Nadler (D-NY); Grace Meng (D-NY); Alcee Hastings (D-FL); Ander Crenshaw (R-FL); Bill Young (R-FL); Patrick Murphy (D-FL); Frederica Wilson (D-FL); Jeff Miller (R-FL); Kathy Castor (D-FL); Ted Deutch (D-FL); Jim Moran (D-VA); Betty McCollum (D-MN); Dina Titus (D-NV); Peter DeFazio (D-OR); David Cicilline (D-RI); Raul Grijalva (D-AZ); and Madelei<span style="font-size: 13px;">ne Bordallo (D-Guam).</span></i></span></blockquote>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-81337679866427102492013-06-14T10:00:00.001-04:002013-06-14T10:00:14.325-04:00Keeping track of who's running campaigns in June 18 special electionA variety of political committees have taken the lead in promoting their respective messages about two referendum questions on the June 18 special election ballot in Manatee County.<br />
<br />
Here's a rundown of who they are:<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://healthymanatee.com/">Healthy Manatee</a></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Healthy Manatee, chaired by former county commissioner Pat Glass, has taken the lead in the campaign to win voter approval for a half-cent increase in the sales tax to fund health care programs, including services for the indigent.<br />
<br />
Despite the group's name, the main thrust of its campaign is the prospect of a higher sales tax meaning a corresponding drop in the property tax rate for county residents. County Administrator Ed Hunzeker has made such a switch part of his proposed 2013-14 county budget, but property tax relief is not part of the ballot question.<br />
<br />
As of May 24, Healthy Manatee had raised almost $170,000 in contribution -- mainly from local hospitals and others in the health care industry -- and spent almost $106,000 on its campaign, according to finance <a href="http://www.voterfocus.com/ws/WScandnew/candidate_pr.php?c=manatee&el=136">reports filed with the county elections office</a>.<br />
<br />
A bulk of the spending had gone to The Nolan Group, a Bradenton political consulting firm, to pay for mailers and other materials.<br />
<br />
<b>Committee for Community Leadership</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
You may have received a automated telephone call from Committee for Community Leadership promoting the sales tax proposal.<br />
<br />
Since 2012, when the Palmetto-based "electioneering communications organization" was formed, CCL has collected 11 individual donations totaling more than $95,000, according to finance reports filed with the <a href="http://election.dos.state.fl.us/">Florida Division of Elections</a>. It has spent an almost equal amount.<br />
<br />
The donors include UHS of Delaware Inc., the parent company of Manatee Memorial Hospital and Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, $2,000; and Blake Medical Center, two donations totaling $7,000.<br />
<br />
Also donating $5,000 each were Schroeder Manatee Ranch, developer of Lakewood Ranch; and Benderson Development, which owns several shopping centers in the region.<br />
<br />
More than $46,000 in donations came from Peter S. Rummell, a Jacksonville real estate investor and chairman of the Urban Land Institute; and another $20,000 came from the Jacksonville Civic Council, whose "mission is to create a clear vision for the city of Jacksonville.," according to its website.<br />
<br />
<b>Manatee Against Taxation / <a href="http://commoncentsformanatee.com/The_Facts.html">Common Cents for Manatee</a></b><br />
<br />
Manatee Against Taxation -- which lists its base as Venice, in Sarasota County -- has taken the lead in opposing the sales tax hike, largely with fliers that have flooded local mailboxes in recent weeks.<br />
<br />
The group registered May 30 as a "political action committee," and as yet has not filed financial disclosure reports with the Florida Division of Elections, according to the agency's website.<br />
<br />
The group's treasurer is Eric Robinson, who also is listed in documents as the registered agent for Common Cents for Manatee, which also opposes the sales tax hike.<br />
<br />
Common Cents, which is registered with the state as an "electioneering communications organization," also has not filed reports detailing contributions and expenditures.<br />
<br />
<b>Committee for New Jobs Now</b><br />
<br />
Committee for New Jobs Now is promoting approval of a second ballot measure that would allow the county to provide property tax breaks for new and existing businesses that create new jobs in the county.<br />
<br />
Between Jan. 1 and May 24, the Lakewood Ranch-based group had raised more than $78,000 in contributions, and spent more than $46,000. The group's treasurer is Neil Spirtas, an executive with the Manatee County Chamber of Commerce.<br />
<br />
Of the money raised, $75,000 had come from the Bradenton Area Economic Development Council, according to a finance report filed with the county elections office.<br />
<br />
<b>Citizens for Good Government</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
On June 7, Citizens for Good Government registered with the county elections office to oppose the "sales tax referendum and economic development ad valorem tax exemption."<br />
<br />
The chairman of the group is Steve Vernon, who also president of Tea Party Manatee.<br />
<br />
The group has not filed any reports detailing contributions and expenditures.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-4991892275552233802013-06-06T08:36:00.000-04:002013-06-06T16:10:39.304-04:00Manatee County Democrats endorse sales tax hike to pay for health care (UPDATED)<i>Update below.</i><br />
<br />
The Manatee County Democratic Party is endorsing the proposed increase in the sales tax rate to pay for county government's health care programs, including spending for the indigent. Manatee voters will decide on the proposal in a June 18 special election.<br />
<br />
Here is the party's news release, issued late Wednesday:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">Inspired primarily
by state Republicans’ rejection of federal Medicaid funds, the Democratic Party
of Manatee County has officially endorsed the half-penny sales tax to fund
health care for the working poor.</span></span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Voters will decide June 18, in a special referendum,
whether to approve the half-penny.</span></span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> “It’s a moral
issue,” said Patricia Benson, chairperson of the Democratic Party of Manatee
County. “We are the ‘caring’ party, and we need to care for those who cannot
take care of themselves. We need to care for those who do not have the
resources or support of family that would enable them to have health
insurance.”</span></span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Benson said the Executive Committee voted this weekend to
formalize its support for the half-penny after watching the Republican-controlled
Florida State Legislature reject Medicaid from the federal government under the
Affordable Care Act. The Legislature’s decision <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4911746038318456736" name="_GoBack"></a>leaves an
estimated 1 million Florida residents uninsured who would have received coverage
through the extension of Medicaid.</span></span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Our question is, who will take care of the indigent and
working poor in Manatee County?” she said. “As for those who say the half-penny
will hit the poor the hardest, that’s just not true. For the most part, the
tourists and others who can afford to spend lots of money will be paying this
extra half-cent. Food and medicine will not be taxed.”</span></span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The half-penny will raise $23 million annually to fund
health care for Manatee County’s working poor. County officials plan to use the
proceeds to replace property tax revenue as the main source of funding for
indigent health care. The half-penny would enable property owners to receive a
projected property tax reduction of 13 to 25 percent.</span></span></blockquote>
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UPDATED, 4 p.m. EDT -<br />
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<a href="http://healthymanatee.com/">The Healthy Manatee political committee</a>, which is leading the campaign for the sales tax hike, says the Democratic Party is the latest important endorsement for the measure.<br />
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Other endorsements touted in a news release issued Thursday include those from resort owner David Teitelbaum; downtown Bradenton booster Jaymie Carter; the Manatee County Medical Society; and the Holmes Beach City Commission.<br />
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Carter said the surtax will allow the county to lower its property tax rate -- something County Administrator Ed Hunzeker has offered as part of his proposed 2013-14 budget. (The county commission will have the final say.<br />
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Teitelbaum said the surtax would represent "good fiscal planning" and give the county a way to head off what would be a "major deficit" in health care funding.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“People are starting to recognize the broad based issues that are involved here,” said former Manatee County commissioner Pat Glass, the chair of Healthy Manatee. “They realize the half-penny provides an important economic benefit in addition to a health care benefit. It’s about making our community a healthier environment all the way around.”</span></span><br />
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-88078451357193402382013-05-24T09:21:00.000-04:002013-05-24T09:21:04.427-04:00NAACP endorses health care sales tax increase proposalThe Manatee County NAACP is endorsing a proposed increase in the sales tax to pay for indigent health, complete with an invocation of Jesus' name.<br />
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Here's the press release, issued late Thursday:<br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">(For) several months residents of Manatee County have been inundated with facts and falsehoods regarding approval or disapproval of the one-half cent sales tax referendum. While politics has entered the fray of these discussions, the Manatee County Branch NAACP believes the basic civil rights of every citizen of Manatee County is to have access to health care regardless of their socio-economic status. The membership of the NAACP supports the one-half cent increase and encourage voters to vote “YES” for the one-half cent sales tax increase on <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_888753878" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">June 18, 2013</span></span>, or during early voting hours <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_888753879" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">June 8th through June 15th</span></span> at the Supervisor of Elections Office. The office is located at 600 301 Blvd West, Suite 118 (across from DeSoto Square Mall). The hours are <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_888753880" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Monday</span></span> through <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_888753881" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Friday from 7:00 am to 6:00 PM</span></span> and <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_888753882" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Saturday</span></span> and <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_888753883" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 PM</span></span>.</span></span> </blockquote>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Since the sale of Manatee Memorial Hospital in 1984, the County expanded medical payments to other healthcare providers in Manatee County along with the reduction of interest rates, etc., which caused an increased financial burden, obligation to cover the cost of indigent health care. While the sale of Manatee Memorial Hospital produced a fund dedicated to providing health care for poor people, officials want the sales tax increase before funds run out in 2015. Some have questioned why the increase now instead of during the 2012 election cycle, which would have been more cost effective. Here again, politics played a role in postponing due to possible ramifications of election or re-election with a proposed tax increase. One could also argue that this sales tax increase would not be required if the Florida Legislators and Governor Scott would have accepted the federal funds ($51M) to expand medicaid. Citizens cannot allow the politics of the situation to determine the need or responsibility to provide health care coverage to indigent, underinsured or uninsured residents in Manatee County. The NAACP has been assured that the funds collected from the one-half cent sales tax will go into a special fund to cover health care costs ONLY.</span></span> </blockquote>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Please join the Manatee County NAACP and its members by voting “YES” on this critical issue. <i>“..Jesus said when you do for the least of these, you’ve done it unto me....”</i></span></span> </blockquote>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Susie Copeland, President</span></i></span><br /><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Manatee County NAACP</span></i></span></blockquote>
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<br />Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-87294976396351058142013-05-21T11:09:00.001-04:002013-05-21T11:09:46.746-04:00With new legislation, Rep. Vern Buchanan targets scams against seniors<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here's the news release from his office:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">U.S. Rep Vern Buchanan, R-FL, joined forces today with Democratic colleagues Ted Deutch and Peter Welch by introducing the<i>“Seniors Fraud Prevention Act” --</i> legislation to crack down on scams and financial schemes targeting older Americans. Florida is a hotbed for these types of crimes, topping all states in the percentage of seniors 60 and over.<br /><br />"Seniors spend their entire lives working hard and saving so that they can retire with peace of mind," said Buchanan. "Unfortunately, an increasing number of criminals are targeting Americans over 65, the fastest growing population in our country. With nearly 200,000 seniors living in our area of Southwest Florida, I understand that these fraud schemes threaten more than retirement accounts – they threaten the independence and trust of an already vulnerable community. The <i>Seniors Fraud Prevention Act</i> is a critical step to combating fraud, protecting seniors and bringing those responsible for these unthinkable crimes to justice."<br />Specifically, this bipartisan legislation is designed to combat financial schemes that target our nation’s seniors, such as sweepstakes and charity scams, as well as fraudulent investment plans and Internet fraud. The <em>Seniors Fraud Prevention Act</em> would also establish an advisory office within the Federal Trade Commission’s Bureau of Consumer Affairs tasked with alerting consumers of new scams and establishing an effective complaint system to ensure that reports of fraud are quickly forwarded to the appropriate law enforcement agency.<br /><br />“While financial fraud can hit anyone, in Florida we know all too well how seniors who have worked hard their entire lives to retire securely make high value targets for scam artists,” said Congressman Deutch (D-FL). “As the Baby Boomers retire and a growing number of Americans become vulnerable to schemes designed to go after their assets, the federal government must proactively alert the public of the latest threats and work closely with law enforcement to protect our seniors’ financial security.”<br /><br />“Every day across this country, vulnerable seniors are being ripped off by scam artists,” said Rep. Peter Welch (D-VT). “It’s not uncommon for their victims to lose their life’s savings. Our bill would put a federal cop on the beat to alert seniors of fraudulent schemes and help stop these criminals in their tracks.”<br /><br />According to recent estimates from the Investor Protection Trust, a nonprofit education organization, one in five Americans over 65 have been a victim of financial fraud. A study by the Metlife Mature Market Institute estimates the financial loss to senior victims to total nearly $ 3 billion annually. </span></blockquote>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-28900367798873585762013-05-21T08:16:00.000-04:002013-05-21T08:16:07.036-04:00Democratic candidate for governor expresses support for Manatee parents, students at rallyFormer state Sen. Nan Rich, <a href="http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/national/while-bigger-names-ponder-2014-prospects-democrat-nan-rich-says-shes-ready/2122002">so far the only major Democrat running for governor</a>, on Monday <a href="https://twitter.com/NanRichThoughts">took to Twitter</a> to express her support for parents, <a href="http://www.bradenton.com/2013/05/21/4533924/manatee-school-job-layoffs-reach.html">children and others rallying at Manatee County School District headquarters in support of teachers.</a><br />
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Specifically, Rich re-tweeted one of my tweets from the rally that included a photo of the demonstrators:<br />
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Go them! RT @<a href="https://twitter.com/mrmasferrer">mrmasferrer</a>: Kids make heartfelt pleas of their @<a href="https://twitter.com/manateeschools">manateeschools</a> teachers at administration building <a href="http://t.co/gHCUyL35Fw" title="http://twitter.com/MRMasferrer/status/336564793915887616/photo/1">twitter.com/MRMasferrer/st…</a><br />
— Nan Rich (@NanRichThoughts) <a href="https://twitter.com/NanRichThoughts/status/336568173421813761">May 20, 2013</a></blockquote>
Rich <a href="http://www.whendidyoujointwitter.com/">opened her Twitter account on Monday. </a><br />
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4911746038318456736.post-78073911743723465842013-05-17T14:57:00.001-04:002013-05-17T17:11:25.170-04:00Rep. Vern Buchanan: 'I don't think we got all the answers' on IRS scandal (UPDATED)<i>For update, see below.</i><br />
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The House Ways and Means Committee, according to U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Sarasota, will continue to pursue what went wrong at IRS.</div>
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"I don't think we got all the answers that we wanted," Buchanan told the Bradenton Herald on Friday, after the committee<a href="http://www.bradenton.com/2013/05/17/4529777/congress-fired-irs-chief-clash.html"> held the first of what promise to be many hearings</a> after it was revealed the Internal Revenue Service had targeted various conservative political organizations for special scrutiny.</div>
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The chief witness Friday was Steven Miller, the acting IRS commissioner fired by President Barack Obama earlier this week. Miller apologized for what IRS employees did but denied that they had "targeted" tea parties and other organizations opposed to Obama administration policies.</div>
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Buchanan, the only representative from Florida on Ways and Means, was not convinced.</div>
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"I was kind of really upset with the idea with him referring to the idea of targeting Americans as 'bad customer service,' Buchanan said.</div>
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"If you listen to him, he likes to think it was bad customer service or incompetence," Buchanan said. "That doesn't pass the smell test."</div>
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Friday's hearing was charged with partisanship from both sides of the aisles, but Buchanan said he is only trying to do right by the American people by uncovering what went wrong at the tax-collecting agency.</div>
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"You can't have an organization like the IRS, with 90,000 employees, not playing by the rules," Buchanan said. "They clearly stepped over the bounds."</div>
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As investigations continue, Buchanan said he wants to see the firing of anyone else responsible for the scandal, and for a new IRS commissioner to have the leadership skills needed to instill the right culture at the agency.</div>
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"I think there is a lot more that needs to be done," he said.<br />
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<b>UPDATED, 5:05 p.m. EDT --</b> Citing prior investigations of Buchanan's political and business practices, including by the IRS, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee called on Buchanan to excuse himself from the investigation of the of the IRS scandal.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"(I)t is impossible for Congressman Buchanan to conduct the type of impartial and rigorous investigation that both Republicans and Democrats have demanded,” said David Bergstein of the DCCC. “We cannot trust the robber to guard the bank – and we certainly can’t trust him to investigate it."</span></span></div>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1