Republicans celebrate opening of Mitt Romney's Ann Arbor campaign office amid protest
Republicans celebrated the opening of an Ann Arbor campaign office for United States presidential candidate Mitt Romney Tuesday afternoon.
South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley was on hand for the event at the Ann Arbor Victory Center, 4695 Washtenaw Ave., just east of the city limits between Carpenter Road and Golfside Drive.
Addressing a crowd of several dozen cheering supporters, Haley lobbed criticisms at Democratic President Barack Obama.
South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley was on hand for the event.
Ryan J. Stanton | AnnArbor.com
Haley also was expected to travel to the state capital to join Gov. Rick Snyder in hosting a “Built By Us” small business roundtable discussion at the Romney campaign's Lansing office.
Also on hand for the Ann Arbor event were several Republican lawmakers, including state Sen. Patrick Colbeck and state Reps. Mark Ouimet and Kurt Heise.
"Gov. Romney is exactly what our country needs right now," Ouimet said. "We're at a crossroads, and Gov. Romney has both the experience and the vision for our country, and this is about as critical or crucial a presidential election as we've had in my lifetime."
Romney might not be on the most friendly turf in Washtenaw County, though. GOP presidential candidate John McCain pulled just 28.8 percent of the vote here in 2008. However, 48.3 percent of Washtenaw County voters went with Snyder for governor in 2010.
State GOP Chairman Bobby Schostak said he's hoping Michigan voters will choose a Republican for president for the first time since 1988.
A group of about a dozen people marched in protest outside the Romney campaign office during Tuesday's event. Michigan Democratic Party Chairman Mark Brewer also issued a statement criticizing Haley's visit, calling Romney desperate to distract voters from his record on job creation in Massachusetts, as well as his opposition to the auto bailout.
"It was Mitt Romney who said, 'Let Detroit go bankrupt,' " Brewer said. "He must have liked what he heard from Nikki Haley, who called it 'a terrible mistake' when she was running for governor."
Brewer said both Romney and Haley were wrong about the auto bailout, citing recent news about the resurgence of the American auto industry and Michigan's recovery outpacing the rest of the country. Several Democrats, including state Sen. Rebekah Warren, D-Ann Arbor, used Haley's visit on Tuesday to call into question Romney's business record.
"When your private sector record at Bain Capital — once the centerpiece of your campaign — looks more like a liability amid discussions of outsourcing, laid-off American workers, devastated communities and retroactive retirement, it’s probably smart to change the subject," state Rep. Ellen Cogen Lipton said in a statement.
Haley offered a different view of Romney.
"We have someone who has fixed everything he's ever touched," she said. "When he was in business, he took broken businesses and he made them successful. When he took on the Olympics, he turned it around and made it a source of pride for our country. And then when he became governor, he reduced taxes with a 90 percent Democrat Legislature."
Ryan J. Stanton covers government and politics for AnnArbor.com. Reach him at ryanstanton@annarbor.com or 734-623-2529. You also can follow him on Twitter or subscribe to AnnArbor.com's email newsletters.
Comments
Carey Frisch
Tue, Sep 25, 2012 : 2:20 a.m.
What time will the Romney Campaign Wake begin on November 6th?
28's..andtheydon'trub
Mon, Sep 24, 2012 : 9:06 p.m.
Hope all the Romney fans have off shore accounts set up haha!! Obama 2012 or no vote at all!
28's..andtheydon'trub
Mon, Sep 24, 2012 : 9:01 p.m.
How many people VOTED for Bush TWO times are on this blog complaing about Obama's performance?? Just curious... AND I feel bad for those who will have to live in the US if Romney wins... Just aquired dual citizenship two weeks ago! Who said Mr 28's..andtheydon'trub will be paying more taxes dollars haha
LindaJ
Mon, Sep 24, 2012 : 8:09 a.m.
Sparty, regarding Obama's having "won" a Nobel Peace Prize: It was given to him before he actually did anything. It was given to him in anticipation of the good that would come from his presidency. With which countries has our relationship improved since he took office? Where is the world more peaceful than it used to be? Which countries respect us more than they used to?
katmando
Mon, Sep 24, 2012 : 1:52 a.m.
and how many jobs will it create?
1bit
Sun, Sep 23, 2012 : 9:06 p.m.
I don't know what's funnier - that A2.com screws up and puts up an article from July 31, 2012 as one of the "most commented" this week, or that genetracy promptly comes in and invokes Godwin's law. Kudos for the laughs. Now its time to fix the website.
BernieP
Wed, Sep 26, 2012 : 6:29 p.m.
Is it broken?
genetracy
Sun, Sep 23, 2012 : 2:15 p.m.
The Ann Arbor city council should pass a law declaring A2 a one party town, with that party being the democrats. It worked in pre world war 2 Germany, why not now?
Jay Thomas
Sun, Sep 23, 2012 : 8:53 a.m.
This seems a day late and a dollar short to me. But I'm voting Romney anyway.
Jonelle Gillette
Fri, Aug 3, 2012 : 4:27 a.m.
Yea!!! A Mitt Romney office in Ann Arbor....hey libs move over we have a right to be here as well!!!
Enso
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 7:05 p.m.
""We have less money, we have more debt, we have higher unemployment. And under this president we've lost our credit rating, our economy is going down, our debt is going up, and he says we're headed in the right direction." All that was true BEFORE Obama was even elected. It's hard to stop a moving train, isn't it?
Scylding
Tue, Sep 25, 2012 : 2:41 a.m.
Especially when you are greasing the tracks and stoking the engine. And for the record, our credit rating did not get downgraded until WELL into the Obama nightmare.
snapshot
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 5:52 a.m.
I'm surprised Ann Arbor doesn't pass an ordinance that restricts polls for dmocratic candidates only.
Ann English
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 11:34 p.m.
I think there's a connection between the opening of this office and the Michigan Republican Party sign going up next to the Armed Forces recruiters location. I noticed the new sign on Tuesday but never realized what was taking place down the road simultaneously.
bobslowson
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 1:59 p.m.
Misery loves company
Unusual Suspect
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 3:19 a.m.
Birds of a feather (Patriots) flock together.
genetracy
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 6:29 p.m.
A dozen protesters? Ann Arbor.com usually describes those as "massive" or "statewide".
Ann English
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 11:37 p.m.
TV often pulls off this kind of deception; they want you to think that the people who agree with their statist beliefs outnumber those of us who believe in freedom and all the personal responsibility that goes with it. Statism is faith in the almighty government, not in any transcendant God.
towncryer
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 6:18 p.m.
Wow. Must be someone's day off with all the continuous posts on this thread. Go out and enjoy the weather!
mixmaster
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 12:27 a.m.
Not at all, It doesn't take much time or effort to poke fun at all the silly Rmoney supporters.
Trouble
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 4:18 p.m.
Voter will continue to vote " their pocketbooks ". Always have and always will.
Doug
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 3:47 p.m.
Reading all the liberal chatter is my way of relaxing - like watching "The Comedy hour"!
meecrob
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 5:26 a.m.
sorry msnbc
meecrob
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 5:24 a.m.
ya and msnnbc is so much better there just like fox news but for the left
mixmaster
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 12:19 a.m.
I take it you like watching television. Known as the wasteland, home of Fox News.
John S. Armbruster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 3:21 p.m.
I don't care much for either of them. But the continuing venemous rhetoric doesn't solve anything either. Not just the candidates but most of the posts relating to the article.
Bruce Ball
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 1:26 p.m.
President Obama has my vote.
NoPC
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 1:06 p.m.
I am absolutely amazed at how en-lighted our fine folks of Ann Arbor are! For a city that is known for their higher education, how can they honestly think that higher debt, greater unemployment, more food stamp recipients, lower credit rating abroad and never passing one budget since in office is a good thing???? I'm baffled....
Ann English
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 11:45 p.m.
Those who still trust the mainstream media don't realize that the so-called reporters and journalists lust for power over us, just like the politicians they support. Lust for power blinds one to the fact that the money supply from taxes is NOT limitless, that they're NOT smarter than the rest of us, that they CAN'T run our lives better than we can. They love their power so much, they can't see that their policies CAUSE job loss, something that the mainstream media doesn't want us to know. The power-driven politicians even think that all US money originated with them, not with us taxpayers.
mixmaster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 5:12 p.m.
I know that I feel pretty enlight (en) ed whenever I read a comment and realize that I know how to spell and construct a sentence.
BioWheels
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 12:58 p.m.
We certainly don't want to elect Mitt, he is just another tax and spend Republican who blames the Democrats! Look who has been in the presidency when the federal deficit has been the worst .... Republicans! And.... look at the stock market when the Republicans have been in office ... so how is it that the Republicans always say they are the tax cutters and the party that spends less? The reality is that when the Republicans are in office the economy goes down the tubes and the tax rate increases. The same thing is happening in our state! While we are at it, let's defeat Snyder as well!
OLDTIMER3
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 12:55 p.m.
A bunch of posters keep asking what did Romney ever make other than money. Well where did Obama ever work or make? And just how many jobs Obama has sent or caused to be sent over seas while President? Who is now a major owner of GM now? China.
Jay Thomas
Sun, Sep 23, 2012 : 8:49 a.m.
Yes, sparty. We own a piece of GM which not too long ago Obama was bragging about. Of course the stock price has collapsed under the burden of REALITY and we are now stuck with a 25 billion dollar loss. The stimulus produced little no jobs. To quote Obama: "I guess those shovel ready jobs weren't very shovel ready at all." It was mostly a payoff to unions and if you are one of the 5/6 Americans unconnected to the public union complex, it has done nothing for you. We were promised five million green jobs and don't even have a 100,000. Because they all went bankrupt. Obama is like the opposite of King Midas -- everything he touches turns to garbage.
Unusual Suspect
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 3:21 a.m.
Hey, come on now, Obama has done work. After all, he runs two automobile companies!
Sparty
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 7:45 p.m.
Actually, Obama worked as a State Senator in Illinois and then as a US Senator from Illinois before being elected the 44th President of the USA. He's also written several books, which is where he made the majority of his money. And by the way, the majority owner of GM now: the US Government, who owns approximately 26%. Not China. Perhaps Oldtimer ought to invest in a news service or use google to check on his facts before posting.
mixmaster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 3:47 p.m.
PResident Obama has released his tax records. I think it's 10 years. If anyone wants to know where he worked or didn't work, how much tax he paid or not, it's all out there. Where he worked and what kind of work that was will only be relevant when Rmoney shows his tax forms. Rmoney didn't work. He invested shareholders money, killed American jobs, sent more of them overseas, and because of his vast wealth was able to have offshore investments without paying taxes, has secret Swiss bank accounts and a $100 million IRA. I wouldn't call any of that "work". Rmoney invested and reaped the benefits. Nothing wrong with that, but I wouldn't call it work. The same can't be said for Rmoney.
trapper
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 12:41 p.m.
"4695 Washtenaw" doesn't show up in the County's property parcel lookup, maybe the address is a typo, or maybe the place is owned by an offshore enterprise based in the Caymans!
Basic Bob
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 10:18 p.m.
4695 Washtenaw, in the Glencoe Crossing shopping center behind Ichiban. Owned by McKinley.
America
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 12:30 p.m.
We should all exercise our right to vote. One method is to use a chart listing all the issues and choose which ones are most important to you. Then decide which candidate will positively effect those issues most. I consider myself an independent. I am likely to vote Romney this time. It could swing back if Obama does some unexpected compromising regarding the ACA and the Catholic Church. But the important thing is that is my personal priority. Hopefully you all find something to hope for in a Romney presidency or an Obama 2nd term. Voting in an open election even if it is colored by corporate money and talking heads on the news telling us how to think is still the best example of democracy on the planet.
mixmaster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 3:53 p.m.
You prove my premise. More than a few self described independent voters are really closet Republicans. You know that President Obama isn't going to compromise on the ACA. It is now settled law. And why should he compromise? Republicans have been unwilling to even talk about compromise much less bargain in good faith with the President. And if you think that democracy is better here in the US because of corporate money and secret contributions, you really need to take another look.
nekm1
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 11:43 a.m.
The LAST high profile Dem in Michigan said, "in 5 years we will blow you away!"...Libs just make me laugh!
Jay Thomas
Sun, Sep 23, 2012 : 8:42 a.m.
Another Harvard lawyer like Obama who never had a real job until her thirties. They are the privileged. But that's okay if you are a democrat.
mixmaster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 3:54 p.m.
Keep laughing. It's what you do best.
meecrob
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 5:36 a.m.
I will take mitt over Barry Soetoro aka Barack Obama hes the worst President in Americas history .
Carey Frisch
Tue, Sep 25, 2012 : 2:23 a.m.
Acceptance to the U of M is not in your future...
genetracy
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 5:35 p.m.
Let's not forget Jimmy "I don't know what the heck I am doing" Carter and Bill Clinton, the only US president to leave semen stains on the carpet of the oval office.
meecrob
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 5:17 a.m.
lol i just put that up to see the replies i get. Just 3 in 24 hrs thats bad ann anarbor I was hoping for more lol and not good replies no long rants no jump on the race card. Mixmaster one was ok but not up to ann arbor rant. I give it 3 out 10
Middle America
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 10:09 p.m.
You obviously don't know too much about the history of American presidents, huh meecrob?
Sparty
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 7:39 p.m.
Nixon? Hoover? Both Republicans, you know. ROFL. Obama, on the other hand is one of just five US Presidents to have won the Nobel Peace Prize, and he won his Presidency with more votes than any President in History. So, worst President in History? I guess that's just your opinion. My opinion is that he is one of the best Presidents in US History.
Mike
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 3:29 a.m.
There really is no issue more important in this race than the financial health of the USA. We have to stop spending, borrowing, and printing money. This will be tough medicine but has to be done at the expense of EVERYONE, even rich democrats and republicans. Obama's strong point is not financial, it's talking.........
Enso
Mon, Sep 24, 2012 : 1:17 p.m.
@ Ann, I'm sorry, but your ideology is getting in the way of 'reality.' The US military is the best-run and most efficient organization in the world, and it is completely government run.
Ann English
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 11:59 p.m.
Yes, conservatism is based on reality, not emotions. No matter who's President, printing money causes inflation. No matter who's President, the private sector does better, less expensive work than government. It's always easier to expand government overreach (driven by lust for power) than to do good (give people back their money, freedom to be responsible, shrink government control over business so they can do their work COMPETITIVELY).
mixmaster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 5:46 p.m.
The diff is that President Obama has publicly stated that he doesn't want the tax cut proposed by Rmoney and he wasn't born with a gold spoon in his mouth like Rmoney was. Comparing Obama's wealth to Rmoney's is like comparing my bank balance to Fort Knox.
E Claire
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 5:36 p.m.
You do understand that Obama is also part of the 1%, along with all his buddies, don't you?
mixmaster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 3:55 p.m.
And Rmoney's strong point is outsourcing American jobs, killing American jobs and enriching his 1% buddies.
martini man
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 3:01 a.m.
After reading these far left liberal posts, it makes me realize why I will be voting straight republican this Nov. Liberals are the most biased , racist, bigotted people on earth ..and maybe other planets as well.
ESprout
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 2:40 p.m.
Biased - yes, we are biased...towards doing the right thing for good of all people. Racist - Liberals and progressives were paramount in electing the first African-American President, so I'm pretty sure liberals and progressives are not racist. Bigoted - Liberals typically stand up for those who are less fortunate, in need or attacked because of their sex, sexual orientation or class. Anti-rights - Pretty sure fighting for equal rights for all citizens is anything but being anti-rights. Intolerant - Liberals tolerate a lot of ignorant posts on forums such as this one... As for the "maybe other planets as well," I think I can confidently assume that most liberals of sound mind stand by the assertion that, as far as we are aware and until otherwise confirmed, we are the only people on any planet. And if you're referring to Kolob, I doubt that, if that particular planet does exist, you'd find any liberals there.
mixmaster
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 12:16 a.m.
I don't know where you get that wanting servicemen (and women I suppose) to die thing. Now I remember, right out of Karls Rove's Republican lying dirty tricks handbook. Just throw enough mud until something sticks and then deny deny deny
Ann English
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 12:05 a.m.
Whether or not liberals have read and followed Saul Alinsky's book Rules for Radicals, they are following his advice to accuse conservatives of the very things the liberals themselves are guilty of, such as trying to steal elections, being intolerant of those who disagree with them, wanting our servicemen to die.
Unusual Suspect
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 4 p.m.
Martini, you're correct. They try to claim the high ground on tolerance and such, but their actions show them to be the most hateful, spiteful, intolerant and anti-rights people on the planet.
VEW
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 3:37 a.m.
"Liberals are the most biased , racist, bigotted people on earth ..and maybe other planets as well." Sorry, this is a common Mittconception, martini man. Mittconception: A fundamental belief of Mitt Romney's, based on mistaken understanding of an issue (one of many).
mixmaster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 3:11 a.m.
"Liberals are the most biased , racist, bigotted people on earth ..and maybe other planets as well." Until you get to the letter R where you find Reactionary Republican.
DonBee
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 2:35 a.m.
I suspect the protest would be larger if someone tried to open a Chic-fil-a in Ann Arbor.
Enso
Mon, Sep 24, 2012 : 1:13 p.m.
No, they stopped giving their money to bigots. No need to protest them anymore, we already won that battle. http://www.queerty.com/chick-fil-a-stops-anti-gay-donations-adopts-anti-discrimination-policy-20120919/
E. Manuel Goldstein
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 2:02 a.m.
At least we know where Mark Ouimet stands on Rmoney. Time to elect somebody who comes from the 99%, not the cheating-the-Washtenaw-County-taxpayers Snyder toady (sure he paid it back). Swiss bank account anyone?
mohomed
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 1:43 a.m.
These things Ann Arbor people cannot stand and gnash their teeth at. Conservatives, low taxes, mothers not being able to kill their unborn babies, not liking gay sex, and saying Jesus Christ is Lord Creator and Savior! Yep lots of protesting if you stick up for those issues. Oh and saying the Bible is the Word of God too. Just remember libs, all the prophecies in the Bible have come true or are still waiting to come true and all of it's history has been proven through archeology or can't be disputed as proven false. And yes Creation Science by actual PhD men and women have a much better argument. God made man as he is. There is no observed or experimented science to show life started from nonlife and man evolved from some monkey type thing. Now tell God you're a sinner and except Jesus died for your sins so you can live a better life and get into heaven. Sometimes the truth hurts but its the TRUTH.
Pretty Gritty
Sun, Sep 23, 2012 : 11:42 p.m.
You can't prove that dragons did not create the world. That's the TRUTH! Sheeze do you believe in Santa too?
mixmaster
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 12:32 a.m.
Name one Bible prophecy that has come true and it better not be that Hitler was the Anti Christ.
Middle America
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 10:08 p.m.
Why is it "the TRUTH"? Is it because you read it in an ancient book that has been changed over and over?
martini man
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 5:05 p.m.
Well said Mohomed ..well said !!!
ESprout
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 5:01 p.m.
I'll stop referring to two men or two women who are married as "marriage" if you stop referring to your own personal beliefs as "truth." Instead, I'll refer to two men or two women who are married as a blessed union of two individuals who are committing themselves to one another for the rest of their lives and doing so in a ceremony to be witnessed by their loved ones. And you can refer to your personal beliefs as...well, just that - your own, private, personal beliefs. I won't ask you to acknowledge the blessed union between two men or two women as a marriage so long as you don't ask me to acknowledge your personal beliefs as a universal truth.
Madeleine Borthwick
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 1:48 p.m.
say hello to the treetown prophet!
kmgeb2000
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 12:58 p.m.
Talk about an oxymoron - "Creation Science"! That's a good one. The science of an unseen, all knowing, all powerful entity wishing life to exist. Yep that's science. I do like the part about "waiting to come true" and "can't be disputed as proven false", therefore they must be the TRUTH. What other possibility could there be? What did "George Costanza" say "its not a lie if you believe it". You keep believing, but please let other believe as they wish.
GoNavy
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 12:55 a.m.
Here is a partisan comment regarding both my favorite candidate and the candidate I intensely dislike. Obviously my guy is great, and your guy is not.
LXIX
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 12:43 a.m.
The non-voters will win the election this fall. With this new mandate, the manority rule could demand that all Democrats and Republicans on the ballot be forced to vacate office in favor of their elected representitive - nobody. Even though the Supreme Court might fail to recognize the majority rule, the global news statement will have been made - the system is overdue for a change we can all believe in.
mixmaster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 12:13 a.m.
What is Romney hiding in his tax filings? What is he afraid of?
mixmaster
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 12:35 a.m.
There's a huge difference between "hiding" college records and hiding multimillion dollar offshore and Swiss bank accounts and tax accounting tricks that could very well be illegal.
E Claire
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 5:34 p.m.
Why is Obama hiding his education records? Why did he and his wife have to surrender their law licenses? What are they afraid of?
mixmaster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 1:15 p.m.
I think that the American people deserve better than a tax evading flip flopper like Romney. In this country we don't like politicians who hide things.
G-Man
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 12:42 p.m.
myob
Townie
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 10:32 p.m.
Rumor has it that Romney didn't pay ANY taxes for 10 years. Williard: show us that wasn't the case. Willard: We dare you. We have a right to know -- he loves to talk about how he'll 'restore' our military by spending billions more on weapons and now it looks like he never paid for any of for 10 years of trillions of military spending while the rest of us did! Any of you out there have a dancing horse ($77k tax deduction), and how many homes across the country and an elevator for your many cars*? * different cars for each house... Willard will do the right thing for middle class -- the .1% 'Middle Class' that Willard spends all his time with.
EyeHeartA2
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 4:41 a.m.
Are you talking about the Tipper/Gore mansion?
Ron Granger
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 11:53 p.m.
My dog dances. Can I deduct him?
Brad
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 10:58 p.m.
Ann Romney's horse just insulted the Olympic judges.....did 20 seconds of his routine and told the judges " I've given you people all you need to see."
Halter
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 9:27 p.m.
That's what many of us thought when Obama was running -- worst presidential candidate ever....and yet he won...
PattyinYpsi
Mon, Sep 24, 2012 : 1:20 p.m.
Thanks, Unusual Suspects, for putting in writing what everybody with a brain knows: You anti-Obama people decided he was a terrible president before he ever had a chance to take a single action in the office. That's really intelligent. There's clearly something other than a fair judgment of the man's performance in the job going on. I won't speculate on what that might be.
Unusual Suspect
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 3:57 p.m.
Halter, to be fair, Obama wasn't the worst president ever while he was running. That happened the moment he was sworn in.
Basic Bob
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 1:38 a.m.
@Brad, that Supreme Court conspiracy is as credible as the birther thing. Please please try to understand the constitutionality of the electoral college before you comment on how you perceive a popularity contest to be the only true measure. Al Gore was simply spared from being the worst president ever.
David Paris
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 11:41 p.m.
@Brad: Not only that, but... http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/docs/Mirror/0007ACB8-ADCE-118B-9E4F80C328EC0000.pdf
Brad
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 9:59 p.m.
That's nothing. In 2000 what the majority of voters thought was the worst presidential candidate (later to become Worst President Ever) went on to be appointed president by the Supreme Court after coming in second place.
Goober
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 9:42 p.m.
Go figure!
Use Logic
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 9:21 p.m.
'About a dozen' protestors? They must have bused in every Occupy member from across the country.
PattyinYpsi
Mon, Sep 24, 2012 : 1:15 p.m.
Yeah--about a dozen protesters for "several dozen" Rombot supporters. Sounds like about the right proportion to me.
Enso
Mon, Sep 24, 2012 : 1:10 p.m.
There are a lot more Occupiers than that. Logic Fail!
Basic Bob
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 1:31 a.m.
Too bad they dispersed Camp Take Notice or they could have got a few more volunteers.
David Cahill
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:43 p.m.
The Ann Arbor Obama office has been open since early November last year. I had thought the AA Republicans were going to meet in their customary phone booth. Guess I was wrong. 8-)
walker101
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:31 p.m.
Tell me Detroit is better off today, run by the left and unions, no jobs, no money, and no hope, maybe I am missing something, but hasn't the left been in charge for decades? Bottom line if we continue with false promises we'll be just like our counter parts in Europe.
Arborcomment
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 12:32 a.m.
Enlighten us Paris, tell us about the paradise state of the european economy prior to austerity measures. Be sure to comment on PIIGS and how they handled their monetary policy in comparison to say, Germany. Come back to us when you determine the most fiscally prudent.
David Paris
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 11:38 p.m.
"the austerity program in Europe is doing what it supposed to be doing" And that is... Cratering the Economy! Exactly right!
Arborcomment
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 10:16 p.m.
Mix, the austerity program in Europe is doing what it supposed to be doing. Blaming a tourniquet above a severed artery of runaway entitlements and no tax base makes no sense.
mixmaster
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 9:21 p.m.
At least you're right about the Europe comparison. How's their austerity programs working for them? Romney proposes the same false promises for an austerity program here in the USA. Except on steroids. A increased austerity program here would definitely kill any hope of getting out of this terrible recession.
Itchy
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:29 p.m.
Evidentially, Mitt did not hear that this is a one party town. No differing opinions allowed - ever! Democrats forever!!!
johnnya2
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 2:48 a.m.
if you want a different opinion, just ask Mitt. He has changed on EVERYTHING. Learning and growing as Obama did on marriage equality (which by the way, he was never against gay rights). Romeny has back tracked on his positions. He said he loves israels healthcare system (INDIVIDUAL MANDATE THERE). He said he would NEVER support stopping Roe V Wade, until he needed to be the candidate he is now. He changes based on what he thinks the right wing nut jobs want. Romeny has never made anything in his life other than money. he bought companies on paper, loaned them money, took the money for himself and Bain capital and then sold off pieces, cancelled contraacts or bankrupted to companies and moved jobs overseas. Romney is the 2000's version of Gordon Geeco
mixmaster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 12:15 a.m.
I used "Romney" in the comment, that's how.
Goober
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 10:56 p.m.
To mixmaster How does being a one party town relate to your comment? It does not make sense.
walker101
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:33 p.m.
Unfortunately many in his own party realize this guy is a joke and have stopped supporting him.
antikvetch
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:21 p.m.
"Michigan Democratic Party Chairman Mark Brewer also issued a statement criticizing Haley's visit, calling Romney desperate to distract voters from his record......" Um, I, ah, no, really? I mean did he REALLY so that? Now THAT'S some chutzpah!
1bit
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 11:21 p.m.
You're right, Romney should be proud of his healthcare legislation, his pro-abortion stance, his hiding of his taxes, his thoughtful duplicity, his utter ignorance of foreign policy and his inability to relate to the common man. Why have Republicans become so blinded to the fact that they have nominated the kind of person they hate in politics? I'd have a beer with GWB but I wouldn't even let Romney buy me one.
Aquarius
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:12 p.m.
G= Greed O= Oligarchy P= Plutocracy
motorcycleminer
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:08 p.m.
I see all the " dupeocrats " are all ginned up over the fact that the " occupier " of penn. avenues private surfdom has an office for a real candidate...the sky is truly falling...
arborani
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 10:39 p.m.
Private *surf*dom? The White House must have a heckuva pool.
mixmaster
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:38 p.m.
The real dupes are the Tea Party who love the multimillionaires who send their job overseas and "create" low wage dead end jobs for them.
Sparty
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:20 p.m.
You mean Mitt the Twit, as the rest of the World calls Romney ?
Madeleine Borthwick
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:04 p.m.
if Romney gets elected, we can kiss what little headway the gays have been able to accomplish in the way of marriage equality, etc. the mormon church is one of the biggest collection of homophobes there is. Just sayin'. excuse me while I duck to avoid the rocks that will perhaps be lobbed in my direction....
Dog Guy
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 7:49 p.m.
Republicans? . . . in Ann Arbor? There goes the neighborhood!
Basic Bob
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 1:28 a.m.
It's Pittsfield. Or as the Ann Arbor folks pronounce it, Ypsilanti. Not too many (R) on that side of the township, most of them are in Upper Saline.
lynel
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 9:45 p.m.
I think the headquarters actually east of the AA City limits. WHEW!!
Ron Granger
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 7:11 p.m.
Romney can't even get along with the British. How is he possibly going to relate with Russia, China, North Korea, Hong Kong, etc?
Scylding
Tue, Sep 25, 2012 : 2:13 a.m.
I'm sure Romney would know better than to offend the Brits by sending back Churchills bust early in his presidency the way the fool currently in the office did.
EyeHeartA2
Thu, Aug 2, 2012 : 4:26 a.m.
@mixmaster: Next time at least attempt to do some research. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Protestant Other groups rejecting Protestant label Some religious movements, such as the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Nontrinitarian movements, and New Religious Movements are often included in lists of Protestants by some outsiders. However, neither mainline Protestants nor the groups themselves would consider the designation appropriate.
mixmaster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 6:56 p.m.
Mormonism is a Protestant religion, err, cult according to many Christians.
mixmaster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 6:54 p.m.
WASP White Anglo Saxon Protestant
EyeHeartA2
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 4:37 a.m.
@mixmaster: What does WASP stand for? What is Mitt's religion? Why do you post about things you know nothing about?
mixmaster
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 9:17 p.m.
Make that his WASP soulmates.
mixmaster
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:43 p.m.
He'd be the lap dog like Tony Blair was to Bush.
Brad
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:38 p.m.
And the Brits are his Anglo-Saxon soulmates.
Technojunkie
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 7:06 p.m.
There is a third choice: http://www.garyjohnson2012.com/ End the foreign wars, end the war on drugs, balance the budget with spending cuts, get the federal government back within its constitutional restraints. Romney is looking better and better though. I'll be content if he wins. I'll pick a successful businessman and the man who straightened out the Olympics over an economy-wrecking "community organizer" any day. A Libertarian victory, though, is what we really need.
Jay Thomas
Sun, Sep 23, 2012 : 8:24 a.m.
Libertarians have never won anything. They hold no seats in Congress. No Governorships. Zippo. Never more than 1-2% of the vote.
DonBee
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 10:14 p.m.
mixmaster - In the 2008 election I voted for candidates from 6 parties, if that does not make me an independent, I don't know what does. It is too bad, that you see the world in black and white. Maybe a step back to listen to others once in a while would let you see some of the other colors.
umichjim
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 4:41 p.m.
He "straightened out the Olympics" with government dollars. Hmmm........
mixmaster
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 1:12 p.m.
Really. I'd venture that most conservatives don't know the difference between a libertarian and a lock step Republican. It's a word that many like to throw around because they don't want to admit that they're Republicans. Make all the definitive lists you want. We've heard all the protestations before. Like people who declare themselves independent voters, they do it because after George Bush's reign, they fear being connected to the Republican party.
DonBee
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 2:32 a.m.
Mixmaster - How little you seem to know. 1) Libertarians believe that each person should pay for what they use in government services 2) They believe that if it does not harm another person - there should not be a law against it - so there would be no more drug wars 3) They believe that you should have the freedom to think and learn, what you want - and that education is the basis of a real society 4) They believe in a much smaller military and much less in the way of world policing Still sound like a Republican to you? Really? Really, really?
David Paris
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 11:32 p.m.
'economy-wrecking "community organizer" ' You must have not been here for the last guy. And Romney is Round 2 of that!
mixmaster
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:35 p.m.
Scratch a so called Libertarian and find a Republican. Libertarians call themselves that because they're ashamed to admit they're Republicans.
sneekysneaky
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 7:01 p.m.
Romney is a better choice than Obama. If Barack has another 4 years he will really bankrupt our nation. Funny Obama is running on "Don't look at my record, look at that other guy." What has he done for the last 4 years except bury us in debt?
28's..andtheydon'trub
Mon, Sep 24, 2012 : 9:03 p.m.
sneekysneaky voted for Bush!! Your imput is irrelevant, esp if your talking Bush debt vs Obama Debt lol.
Arborcomment
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 8:55 p.m.
Mention away. Politifact says jobs lost before Obama took office was 3.5 million, so you're only off by 180% or so. Stock market did double, from a March 2009 low. Experts say source of increase is companies buying their own stock and holding it vice making capital investments and hiring more employees. Really shouldn't complain about the game or the score when you don't even show up to step up. Senate Majority Leader Reid (D) has over sixty house passed bills on his desk that he refuses to move for a vote. And the budget bill? That's been a locked drawer in his desk for over 900 days.
Sparty
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 3:47 a.m.
Did I mention that 9 million jobs were lost before Obama became President and that the Dow had lost half of its value? The Dow is back and one half of the jobs are back as well despite the Republican party of no, which has filibustered more bills in the Senate than any Session in US History and this latest House session which has passed the fewest bills in US History.
Arborcomment
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 11:28 p.m.
$1 trillion in deficit reduction, whew! That's a relief. This year's projected deficit will be $1.2 trillion plus - suppose it could have been worse...
Arborcomment
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 11:23 p.m.
One by one.. "4.5 million jobs created". Does that number include the oil company lobbyists counted by BLS as "green jobs created" as "energy policy jobs"? Why then 41 straight months of unemployment above 8 percent? Not even keeping up with population growth. And since he says "the private sector is doing fine" reducing those government jobs to '96 levels must be the problem? Nice he removed Clinton's "don't ask, don't tell", glad he changed his mind - er, "evolved" on that and same sex marriage - perfect timing too! START treaty was about all done before he took office - how is that reset button working? Might want to ask the Syrians or Georgians. But don't worry, he's promised better deals to Putin (caught on tape) "after the election". Bin Ladin, many years of hard work. Opportunity came up on his watch. Kudos for approving the only political and military option. No kudos for the leaks from his security counsel staff. Ended the Iraq war under the exact timeframe per scribed by the Iraqi accords signed by the Bush admin in 2007. "Ending the Afghan War" tell that to the 7-8 thousand US troops that will be there post-2014. Or, he will, he likes putting out schedules for the Taliban. TARP and repayment timelines set when program was initiated in Bush admin. As Obamacare in total or partial, gets a thumbs down by close to 50% of the population, it's an accomplishment all right. 18 tax cuts, are you counting the extension of the Bush tax cuts? Could be 19, as he's done it twice.
leaguebus
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:28 p.m.
Also, most of Mitts advisors are old George W's guys. The Republican budget is a joke, keep cutting taxes for the rich, do not cut defense, cut Social Security, Medicare, and any other social programs that exist. Keep cutting those pesky governmental regulations that get in the way of rich pocketing more money and also give huge subsidies to big corporations so they can offshore more money to avoid taxes.
Tom Todd
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 7:34 p.m.
George W Bush started 2 wars we did not need nor could afford he also GAVE the banks about a Trillion dollars also how much did Halliburton make from the wars that benefited Chaney as well
Sparty
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 7:08 p.m.
Why, he's created 4.5 million new jobs over 27 straight months, passed historic health care reform that Presidents since FDR have been trying to do, repealed the 22 year old don't ask don't tell law, updated 52 year old patent law, passed 3 trade treaties, the Start Treaty, the Lily Ledbetter equal pay act for women (his first bill), Veterans Jobs Bills, 18 tax cuts, $1 trillion dollar reduction to the deficit, reduced the size of the federal government back to levels last seen in 1996, overseen the repayment of 95% of the TARP/Stimulus Funds, saved the auto industry, killed bin Ladin and the majority of al Qaeda Leadership, Khadaffi, ended the Iraq War, is ending the Afghan War by the end of 2014 .... just to name a FEW things that he's done in the last 3.5 years.
B2Pilot
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 6:55 p.m.
I'm sure Rebekah Warren's business background is so much more noble, and contributed to the community where she worked, uh er uh oops I forgot she has never had to work in the private sector for an hourly wage or having to produce results. I think her web site states it best "she's enjoyed a privileged life".
Enso
Mon, Sep 24, 2012 : 1:07 p.m.
That's funny, because your Republican Vice Presidential has been on the government dole his whole life too!
Jay Thomas
Sun, Sep 23, 2012 : 8:20 a.m.
Democrats have no problem with voting for privileged democrats like Warren, Obama or Granholm. But when a guy like Romney gives his inheritance to charity and starts from scratch then he's the Devil.
mixmaster
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:49 p.m.
Compared to Romney's privileged life and lifestyle, Rebekah Warren's has been one of simplicity and service. I doubt that Romney has worked a day in his life in a way that most people would describe as work. Everything was done for him by his family and his church. As a businessman, he signed papers, sent jobs overseas, closed American businesses and fired people. That's not my definition of work.
John H.
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:41 p.m.
I don't see this on her website. I do see this: "Prior to her work as a Senator, Rebekah was privileged to serve the citizens of Ann Arbor as State Representative for the 53rd House District for four years."
a2xarob
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 7:59 p.m.
She admits that like most of us, she's enjoyed a privileged life. Why be ashamed to admit it, B2Pilot? Let's hope that continues for all of us who are so lucky to live in this wonderful country.
AACity12
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 6:43 p.m.
Was Rapundalo there?
Brad
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 6:41 p.m.
Have you heard about "quantum Mitt"? He can occupy two positions simultaneously.
Arborcomment
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 12:23 a.m.
It is a trait - see same sex marriage and "evolving".
Brad
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 6:40 p.m.
"We have less money" Not Mitt. He has more money that the god from Kolob.
Enso
Mon, Sep 24, 2012 : 1:04 p.m.
Rich Democrats are a problem too. But there is a huge difference between people who marry into it (Kerry), people who have it handed over to them by Daddy (Romney) and people who's family is so rich everyone else is too (Kennedy). But Obama built his fortune from nothing. Isn't that the ideal Republicans say we should all strive for? Obama should be a Republican's ideal candidate, it's exactly what they are always talking about when they bring up that ridiculous boot-strap thing.
Jay Thomas
Sun, Sep 23, 2012 : 8:18 a.m.
Rich democrats (Kennedy 1, 2, 3) never seem to be an issue. Any Republican does...
E Claire
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 5:26 p.m.
Yes, and Obama is just a pauper. Why does his wealth not matter? Why does any candidate's wealth matter? Are there actually any poor politicians out there?
kmgeb2000
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 12:33 p.m.
@Bcar: Please explaing when Romney EVER worked hard for daddy's money? Being a vulture capitalist is hardly work in that you actually create something. His father knew this which is why he made cars. Not great cars but they were tangible items that put people to work. Something for which Romney has no experience. Yes vulture capitalist involves considerable hours but work . . no.
Bcar
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 11:17 a.m.
guess working hard and making millions is a BAD thing? huh???
EyeHeartA2
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 4:34 a.m.
Naw, Kerry got all his the old fashioned way. He married into it.
Madeleine Borthwick
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 7:58 p.m.
Brad, you bet your Holy Underwear he does!! they don't call the Mormons the Corporate Church for nothing.
Technojunkie
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 7:09 p.m.
But less than John Kerry. Guess having money is OK if you don't build anything with it.
bobslowson
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 6:40 p.m.
Looks like a bunch of liars standing around lying about the king liar Romney himself!
Bcar
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 11:16 a.m.
yeah..ok... maybe do a fact check on what obama said during his 2008 race and what HE'S DONE... then talk about liars... LOL! but im 100% sure you wont...
ownrdgd
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 6:33 p.m.
I'll join the gazillion other americans and stay home come election day due to the fact that . There is no one worth voteing for. Unless kermitt the frog decides to run
Enso
Mon, Sep 24, 2012 : 1 p.m.
@ownrdgd There is a lot more to vote for than President on election day. There are several local elections as well as proposals on the ballot. And it is these things that your vote can really make a difference. Local elections and ballot proposals are often decided by only a few votes. I fear you are just attempting to glorify laziness.
kitten2
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 10:12 p.m.
oops- take out the first "not"
kitten2
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 10:07 p.m.
Always your option to not exercise your right not to vote but at the same time if you don't vote you also have no right to complain.
dconkey
Wed, Aug 1, 2012 : 10:45 a.m.
Ownrdgd, there are more then two parties, take a look at some of the lesser known ones. By not voting at all you then lose your privilege to crab about who ever wins.
mixmaster
Tue, Jul 31, 2012 : 8:52 p.m.
One less vote for Romney because I plan to vote for President Obama.