Dear Paul LePage: Admit the truth
BY BILL NEMITZ, Portland Press Herald columnist
Dear Paul LePage,
First, I must say this feels a little weird. With you running as the Republican candidate for governor and all, I figured I'd have ample opportunity between now and November to speak with you by telephone or in person and scope out who you are and where you stand on the important issues facing Maine voters this election.
But now that your recent whistle-stop tour of the midcoast region has turned into a full-blown train wreck, you've announced that henceforth you'd prefer your questions from the press in writing.
So, here goes:
Question 1: When are you going to stop making stuff up?
During your train ride, you told reporters in no uncertain terms that Arden Manning, manager of the Maine Democrats' Victory 2010 campaign, has been blogging about how you're unfit to be governor because you're a Roman Catholic and because you're of French-Canadian heritage.
"The guy, his name is Arden Manning. (He) is the guy that is spilling this garbage," you told Susan Sharon of the Maine Public Broadcasting Network when she asked you to be specific about who's targeting your religion and ancestry.
Problem is, there's no evidence whatsoever that Manning ever did such a thing.
And when asked at least four times Thursday morning by WGAN's Ken Altshuler whether you can back up your claim, the best you could come up with was that Manning has called you a "creationist," which is (to you, at least) a direct reference to your French Catholic background, which obviously implies that you're not Blaine House material because you're French Catholic.
(Excuse me for a second. I need to wait until my head stops spinning.)
The simple truth is that the entire Manning/French/ Catholic thing is pure fabrication. Maybe you felt backed into a corner, maybe you were confused, but it's pretty clear to everyone at this point that you made it up.
And now there's only one way to make it go away: Admit that Manning has never uttered a word about religion or your heritage, apologize to him for saying he did and get on with your campaign.
So why is that so hard for you?
Question 2: When are you going to stop giving diametrically opposed answers to the same question?
Again, the creationism thing.
Back in May, at an MPBN forum for GOP primary candidates, you were asked, "Do you believe in creationism and do you think it should be taught in Maine public schools?"
You replied, "I would say the more education you have, the more knowledge you have, the better person you are. And I believe yes ... and yes."
Now stop me if I'm making too big a leap here, but I take that to be a "yes" (actually, a "double-yes").
Fast forward to last weekend. Reminded by those pesky reporters that you said you supported teaching creationism in public schools, you replied, "I never said such a thing. That's what he (Arden Manning) said."
Finally, during your Thursday appearance on WGAN, you said, "Creationism should be taught in schools under philosophy. Evolution should be taught in schools under science."
So, as they say on the TV game show, is that your final answer? And might we infer that you now support adding "philosophy" to the already crowded Maine school curriculum?
Question 3: Moving on to the "real issues," can you be a bit more specific?
I spent a few minutes looking through the "issues" section of your campaign website (www.lepage2010.com) and was struck by two things.
First, under "budget concerns," you promise, "My first priority as governor will be to ensure that state government spends every tax dollar wisely. I will not tolerate wasteful spending. The tax-and-spend practices in Augusta will come to an end, and I will fight to keep every dollar where it rightfully belongs -- in your pocket."
I'm confused. If every dollar rightfully belongs in my pocket, then how is state government going to have any money to spend wisely?
Put another way, is this your best attempt to articulate your vision for a complex state fiscal crisis that grows more dire with each biennium? Or is it one of those bromides that gets lots of applause from your Tea Party friends but, if read carefully, makes no sense whatsoever?
Moving on to your plan for welfare reform, you state that "recipients (of general assistance) with disabilities would be required to perform community services within the scope of their respective ability."
Since you begin your welfare reform plan with phrases like "milking the system" and "destructive and corrupt," I can't help but think people with disabilities have good reason to worry here.
So, just to be clear, might you add a representative list of disabilities along with the kind of work you'd expect these people to perform?
(A humble suggestion: Before you propose that a person in a wheelchair, say, could help put away books at the public library, you might spend a few hours trying to do it yourself.)
Question 4: Are you having fun yet?
Now I know we haven't met, Mr. LePage, but you seem like a nice guy. And I've filled my house with enough bargains from Marden's discount stores to know that you, as the chain's general manager, know how to wheel and deal, hobnob, backslap and do all those other things so critical to a successful retail salvage business.
But I was struck by your lament on the radio Thursday that "I made a wisecrack (about the age of Libby Mitchell, your Democratic opponent, for which you've publicly apologized) and everyone ran with the wisecrack."
That's the difference between what you've done the past 14 years and what you want to do the next four.
At Marden's, you can spout off whenever you feel the urge and your words quickly evaporate into thin air. Kind of like Glenn Beck.
But as a major party candidate on the gubernatorial campaign trail, it's different. People actually listen to what you have to say. And some of us actually write it down or, better yet, record it and play it over and over and over ...
The way I see it, that leaves you two choices.
You can think before you speak, which I admit is a lot less fun than making stuff up or demagoguing the disabled or revving up your supporters with wisecracks that later lead to public apologies.
Or you can accept that you're just not wired that way and delegate the public speaking to someone better suited for that kind of thing. Someone who knows how to stay on message without having it boomerang into a full-blown controversy. Someone whose credibility with the public is both well-established and unimpeachable.
I'm thinking the Marden's Lady.
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Copyright ©2010 MaineToday Media, Inc.
77 COMMENTS
Jazz11 said...
Mr. LePage and the truth are strangers..... how unfortunate, but not surprising.
July 30, 2010 at 4:40 AM Report abuse
Peruser2 said...
I said it before, I'll say it again... he won't make it to November. What a great article... I can't wait for the response; although it's highly unlikely that there will be a response. Because LePage and supporters will say that this reporter is spouting off because it's near the first of the month and he's waiting for his check.
July 30, 2010 at 5:01 AM Report abuse
inland said...
When a Liberal says something offensive they call it "mis-speaking" and the next day everything is swell. When a Conservative says something offensive he/she is a troglodyte. I just love the dichotomy of politics.
July 30, 2010 at 5:36 AM Report abuse
Jughead said...
A little sesitive about this Manning guy...must be Nemitzs boyfriend.
July 30, 2010 at 5:50 AM Report abuse
ThistleDew said...
Wow... It would seem that Mr. Nemitz is not happy with a crucifiction of my choice for Governor, he wants him drawn and quartered as well. I can't say that I have seen local politics at this level of bias reporting ever. This attack, and this IS an attack, would seem to be a reverse method of desperation on the failing Mitchell front. Libby has obviously been advised to keep her mouth shut while these people do their work. One thing is very clear to me... If Mitchell or Cutler make it to the Blaine House, it's more of the same only worse and we will witness Maine's bankruptcy. Paul LePage represents our best hope for fiscal responsibility and common sense. Paul, there are those who would kill your campaign with a constant nit picking of ever word that you utter. It would seem that the "nice lady" just turned up the heat! :-) Stay the course, your supporters believe in you.
July 30, 2010 at 6:14 AM Report abuse
Dale6767 said...
He might make a good governor, but we'll never know if he doesn't learn to tone it down a little. He's appearing to be a little rough around the edges. He needs to post a note on his refrigerator that says "Open mouth, insert foot", and then avoid doing it.
July 30, 2010 at 6:29 AM Report abuse
dogz said...
This guy is not leadership material. He would be an embarrassment to Maine. Thank you Mr Nemitz for pointing out so well just a few of the gaffes and lies he has perpetuated already. Maine can do so much better!
July 30, 2010 at 6:31 AM Report abuse
Peruser2 said...
This is not a liberal/conservative issue. This is about character and morals. I'm Republican. I'm conservative. I'm fed up with Baldy and the democrats. But, I'm not willing to throw a reckless, rude blathering bully into a non-deserved position of leadership based on embellishments and out and out lies. There has to be better out there. It's not Libby; I'm not sure about Cutler, but I AM sure about LePage. The two good things he did in Waterville was to reduce the mayoral influence in local government and lure Mike Roy from Oakland. If you want to give credit to the improvements in Waterville, look beyond the Mayor. The council, along with Mike Roy have recognized and corrected past problems. They deserve the credit. The best thing LePage can do for Maine is to recommend that Mike Roy run for governor. Let's get the ball rolling... Mike Roy, write in candidate for Maine Governor...
July 30, 2010 at 6:36 AM Report abuse
hugsnkisses said...
WOW! This is gonna be interesting! I vote MARDENS LADY!
July 30, 2010 at 6:53 AM Report abuse
Govt2Big said...
Wow, is this reporter working for the Extreme Far-Lefties? Please read the true facts at http://www.lepage2010.com
July 30, 2010 at 7:04 AM Report abuse
goesaround said...
this is why ordinary people do not want to run for public office....your name ,your life, gets cr#ps on
July 30, 2010 at 7:10 AM Report abuse
Milt said...
Finally, folks seeing the true colors. I've known since the first rumor of his run he would be the worst mistake this state could choose. Mr. LePage is not qualified, nor capable of understanding and governing a complex state and corresponding budget. I am a republican, and have been urging folks from the begining - this is not a choice anyone in the end is going to be satisfied with.
July 30, 2010 at 7:12 AM Report abuse
TheSaint said...
This is all small change. Nothing but junk news. Meaningless. Like the majority of voters, I would rather be hearing what candidates are going to do with jobs, taxes, schools, etc. Issues that will affect this and future generations of Mainers. As voters we complain about all the dirt in politics. Unfortunately, we are the biggest catalyst to this problem. We deserve better and should demand campaigns be issue based. Fabricating news about LePage might sell newspapers but is irresponsible by any journalistic standard.
July 30, 2010 at 7:13 AM Report abuse
LAWDOG314 said...
The Mardens Lady?? YIKES! She is annoying enough for 30 seconds. Imagine having to listen to her as Governor!
July 30, 2010 at 7:14 AM Report abuse
mum said...
Nice story but is it all TRUE?
July 30, 2010 at 7:56 AM Report abuse
hallowellboy said...
Thank you Bill Nemitz. Once again you cut away the bull and hit the nail on the head. Lepage is not fit to be Governor. He is a seriously flawed candidate. Lepage needs to stay in Waterville and limit his questionable banter to Marden's customers.
July 30, 2010 at 8:02 AM Report abuse
Robinwhod said...
With all the perceived faults mentioned in this article, I dare say the choice is still far better than a "money for nothing & your tattoos for free" take it from those that work and give it to those that don't Liberal... Someone always picks up the tab do they not?
July 30, 2010 at 8:07 AM Report abuse
Sam said...
So Lepage played the "ethnicity card", and played it HARD - even worse he LIED about any ethic references even being made! Where are all the right wingers who decry public figures on the left if they play a race or ethnicity card?
July 30, 2010 at 8:14 AM Report abuse
nirvana65 said...
he reminds me of Sarah Palin-who,what where,when,alaska? politics as usual.great article bill!!call Shawn Moody-he'll give you honest answers-to real problems-look we all know noone has all the answers-but at least be honest and let us know where you stand-too much same old,same old-Vote independant-clean 'em all out!!!
July 30, 2010 at 8:18 AM Report abuse
Gary said...
I'm sure Maine will be much better off with a polished career politician than a rough around the edges business oriented person... Hey, look at what Baldacci the smoothie has done for Maine in 8 years,and with no major gaffes! Libby Mitchell can keep the momentum going as she has vast experince in the Baldacci mold, and we can follow the same steady course right into the financial crapper. It'll be our choice in November, and I hope we make the right one. I'm still willing to take my chances with Paul Lepage, liberal slamming and all. That's how they like to operate, from Obama on down the line. Anyway, in the end, it's all Bush's fault.
July 30, 2010 at 8:26 AM Report abuse
TheBear said...
It is nice to watch Maine Politics from afar. While employed in Maine I became a friend of Mr LaPage and found him to be honest and very concerned about the people of our wonderful State. I think this campaign should stick to the isues of improving Maine's economy. The French hertiage of which I am one has nothing to do with putting Maine on the right economic path. Common sense in which Maine people are blessed with does and let begin to use it. Petty potilics will only dig a deeper hole for Mainers to climb out from.
July 30, 2010 at 9:09 AM Report abuse
Credi said...
Great article, keep it up!
July 30, 2010 at 9:16 AM Report abuse
MeMissU said...
Everyone would like the polished public speaker with smooth edges. But remember this: those with voices of angels, with honey dripping from the mouth, will be the first to sting you like a bee! When things don't change, they stay the same. Change is good. And, ask yourself one question. Can it be any worse than what you're used to? Everybody lies..that's a fact. Being the head honcho of the Blaine house, or any house..doesn't mean you do everything in it. That's what the staff under you does, and a good manager is a good director who produces good results. He/She doesn't have to be a Stanford graduate in political science to make sensible decisions. Politics get complicated by competition, and without competition there would be nothing, at all. Aside from all that competitiveness and argument from both sides, keeping it simple is often the best approach to any fix-it job, and in view of the existing conditions we have nothing to lose with LePage. Go for it!
July 30, 2010 at 9:27 AM Report abuse
Skidoo31 said...
I think the libs are scared and when they get scared they get hatefull, as shown in the above article!!!
July 30, 2010 at 9:28 AM Report abuse
Me13 said...
Lets face it, people, the state of Maine has a huge mess to clean up, and Mitchell's plans are never going to resolve any of the States issues. I do agree with Paul's welfare plan- not on the disability half- but reading the facts, its regarding to the people who want us hard working people to work harder and waste our hard earned money on their pay check they receive for doing absolutely nothing but sit on their lazy butts and only get up to eat their free food and make more babies for a bigger check. That's a HUGE problem and we need to fix that before we waste another single penny. We need someone "rough around the edges" to get people back to work and not someone who's going to run our state into the ground and waste our last bit of taxes on a pretty tomb stone...Sorry Libby, but I cannot give you my vote. Wake up! For the record, I am not a Republican- but, this will be my first time voting for one.
July 30, 2010 at 9:46 AM Report abuse
BHSR said...
TO BILL NEMITZ, Portland Press Herald columnist Hey guy, What a way you are using to try to throw garbage and get people to get on board to get the campaign off track from the issues. I have never seen a paper use of this news column tactic of smear. Mitchell is just another one that has been in Augusta too long that has gotten Maine into the deep hole of deficit spending we are now in. She is a shirt tail off the current governor and democratic control of massive tax and spending. Time to cut the shirt tail for good with different approaches of listening to the people that pay the taxes and new leadership. Mitchell has already shown us her leadership.
July 30, 2010 at 10:31 AM Report abuse
PalmTree said...
If Nemitz is doing a series or articles about each candidate, then I understand the goal. Picking apart a person and making smarmy comments that allude to him being rough edged and not articulate is fairly low. I expect better from Nemitz and this paper. I will wait to see how Libby and Cutler are treated. Lots to pick on Libby about - not much on Cutler and therein lies the problem. LePage is a "what you see is what you get type of guy". The others??
July 30, 2010 at 10:34 AM Report abuse
BHSR said...
TO BILL NEMITZ, Portland Press Herald columnist Hey guy, What a way you are using to try to throw garbage and get people to get on board to get the campaign off track from the issues. I have never seen a paper use of this news column tactic of smear. Mitchell is just another one that has been in Augusta too long that has gotten Maine into the deep hole of deficit spending we are now in. She is a shirt tail off the current governor and democratic control of massive tax and spending. Time to cut the shirt tail for good with different approaches of listening to the people that pay the taxes and new leadership. Mitchell has already shown us her leadership.
July 30, 2010 at 10:34 AM Report abuse
oldgrump said...
TheSaint said... This is all small change. Nothing but junk news. ******* Like so many people, you seem to have a bit of trouble distinguishing between a news article and an opinion piece. Mr. Nemitz is NOT a reporter, he is a columnist. A columnist hopes to incite thinking, entertain, introduce new opinions, much like the "talking heads" of Faux News so many people adore as reporters but are actually just opinionists. He is not trying to report "just the facts, ma'am", he's trying to get people to think.
July 30, 2010 at 10:45 AM Report abuse
ValdezGreene said...
LePig is nowhere near qualified to be governor of Maine. He's a guy who jumped off the dock only to realize that he can't swim. The fact that the Republican party had such qualified candidates and nominated this knuckle-dragging buffoon is evidence that the inmates are running the asylum. Republican: certifiable by nature
July 30, 2010 at 10:48 AM Report abuse
ValdezGreene said...
LePig is nowhere near qualified to be governor of Maine. He's a guy who jumped off the dock only to realize that he can't swim. The fact that the Republican party had such qualified candidates and nominated this knuckle-dragging buffoon is evidence that the inmates are running the asylum. On the national level, Mitch McConnell just said of the Republican efforts to extend the Bush tax "cuts" that largely created the current economic mess for America (along with two wars, both kept "off the books" by the Bush administration), that "tax cuts take care of themselves." That is just such absurdity that one has to wonder how truly irresponsible the gray matter between the ears of someone who would nod agreement to this lie might be in any context. Republicans are truly the party of irrationality. LePig is just another example of that. Republican: certifiable by nature
July 30, 2010 at 10:55 AM Report abuse
bethee said...
as i've said from the beginning: lepage = not suited to be governor. i do want to know how he actually gets anything done in the city of waterville as mayor, as general manager of mardens (by the way they are hiring, attn: paul lepage ad in the paper, convenient), plus put on this charade of a "campaign trail".
July 30, 2010 at 11:26 AM Report abuse
over65 said...
This obviously biased piece has no placed in the NEWS section. It realy has no place in a newspaper.
July 30, 2010 at 11:30 AM Report abuse
bethee said...
thistledew: i DID to lepage's website and clicked where it said "issues". i found nothing of substance. just blah, blah, blah. no plans for jobs for college graduates. he plans to have incentives for us to educate ourselves here however he poses no job plans for us. and again, NOTHING about renewable energy which is a viable sector of the maine economy that deserves further exploration and will provide jobs for college graduates. renewable energy sources will boost maine's economy, but lepage only plans to PURCHASE this energy cheaply from canada which, in turn, does NOT support the maine economy. we, as a state, have the ability to completely reboost our economy with this valuable asset, yet lepage wants nothing to do with it. it's really unfortunate. hence my vote will go to someone who is better suited to use this vital resource that we have.
July 30, 2010 at 11:35 AM Report abuse
TiredMainer said...
Yesterday it was Gordon Weil and today it's Bill Nemitz. What's next? A commentary from Keith Olbermann? This paper is leaning ever harder to the left. I'm so glad that I dropped my paid subscription on this rag over a year ago.
July 30, 2010 at 11:39 AM Report abuse
fredsr said...
So, what is the problem with have those with disabilities work within the scope of said disability? Even if all they can do is five hours a week putting books on a Library shelf? Where is sense of entitlement coming from, to get assistance without anything in return, disability or not? I fail to see how this position makes Lepage any less of a viable candidate? Mr. Nemitz, if all you can do is complain about Lepage's stance and not offer any real solutions youself, you are no better than the person you are criticizing. How about this - an article in which you devote to offering what you see as the best solutions to the problems facing the state of Maine. See how closely they match up with the current candidates position and start a dialogue from there. Just a suggestion.
July 30, 2010 at 11:46 AM Report abuse
Kate said...
It sounds as though Mr. Nemitz is afraid that Mr. LePage might win. And I hope he does!!!!! Ever notice Liberals get vicious when threatened??
July 30, 2010 at 11:47 AM Report abuse
caddyshack said...
I will take someone rough around the edges over the status quo we are at right now. This just tells me that he won't be afraid to make some tough decisions with regards to change if elected. The so called reporter/journalist or whatever title you want to give him has no credibility with me. One one side of his mouth he bashes him, then goes on to say that he doesn't know anything about him. What a hypocrite.
July 30, 2010 at 12:00 PM Report abuse
Gary said...
Kate said "ever notice how liberals get vicious when threatened?" She's absolutely right, and ValdezGreene is a prime example.
July 30, 2010 at 12:02 PM Report abuse
Josh said...
This isn't newsworthy... this is a campaign attack ad that's been published as news. Paul LePage will be our next governor and will be faced with a huge task of cleaning up the mess that our state has been left with. I want an honest person with business sense in that role.
July 30, 2010 at 12:28 PM Report abuse
chet said...
Bill Nemits, You should be ashamed of yourself. You anger me and all you are doing is firing up the base. Thanks in a way for your comments; it will make me work harder to get LePage elected. I too am French Canadian and Catholic by birth.
July 30, 2010 at 1:29 PM Report abuse
ValdezGreene said...
It's so sad that the wingnuts posting here don't understand the difference between commentary and news. Actually, they never, ever want news, they want right wing dogma in the guise of news. That leads to a complete disconnect between reality and the wages of their ignorant, neo-con fantasies. LePig is not qualified to be governor of Maine and can't open up his mouth without inserting his hoof. That the wingnuts above can't grasp that just prooves how ill suited they are to make intelligent choices as voters. Republican: What? Hah??
July 30, 2010 at 1:30 PM Report abuse
ValdezGreene said...
Gary, The thing is that I'm right. You can blather on and reveal all of your wingnut talking points, but in the end, wingnuts never, ever offer constructive solutions. It is precisely why now, Congressional Republicans are refusing to say how they will pay for extending the Bush tax cuts that are largely responsible for creating this horrible economy. Day in and day out, Republicans proove themselves to be the least informed among all potential voters. That's sick. Republican: We make you nausious.
July 30, 2010 at 1:35 PM Report abuse
ValdezGreene said...
The thing is that I'm right. You can blather on and reveal all of your wingnut talking points, but in the end, wingnuts never, ever offer constructive solutions. It is precisely why now, Congressional Republicans are refusing to say how they will pay for extending the Bush tax cuts that are largely responsible for creating this horrible economy. Day in and day out, Republicans prove themselves to be the least informed among all potential voters. That's sick. Republican: We make you nauseous.
July 30, 2010 at 1:36 PM Report abuse
ValdezGreene said...
Chet, I'm French Canadian by heritage and Catholic by hirth and I think LePig is a perfect example of how absolutely crazy RepubliCONS have become. He is also a blight upon all Francos by serving as the perfect embodiment of an old stereotype about the ill-tempered, ill-informed, fat, dumb Franco. Thing is that he is the very thing that intelligent voters should rightly revile. He's pretty much Maine's version of Sarah Palin except without the skirt and title "Queen of the Tea baggers!" Republican: Worse than we've ever been!
July 30, 2010 at 1:43 PM Report abuse
ValdezGreene said...
You know, this piece is absolutely brilliant. It's so nice to see we still have fantastic, intelligent commentators out there. In a world where the slugs like Glenn Beck make millions, Mr. Nemitz demonstrates that sometimes talent isn't rewarded and ineptitude with a tinge of viciousness is.
July 30, 2010 at 1:59 PM Report abuse
ValdezGreene said...
The election will be between Mitchell and Cutler, and personally I'll likely support Cutler. As for LePig, any candidate that requests only written questions has basically given up. Look for LePig to drop out by Labor Day.
July 30, 2010 at 2:14 PM Report abuse
ValdezGreene said...
Dale, Typical tired old RepubliCON comments about people being on "food stamps." Not only is that a typically absurd generalization, but it reveals the landscape of the Republican mind -- bleak, barren, angry and fearful. Boy, I hope the young lady switches parties before it's too late. It's much better to spend your life working for the public good, not corporations that steal from the majority of Americans. As a Republican, this young lady is working for the latter, plus she has the pleasure of being lumped in with ignorant RepubliCON creeps like Dale. Republican: We fail always.
July 30, 2010 at 3:34 PM Report abuse
ValdezGreene said...
It is odd that LePig is so angry about people being on "welfare," because he grew up in a poor family that received welfare from the City of Lewiston. Apparently it was good enough and needed by his family, but not any other families.
July 30, 2010 at 4:10 PM Report abuse
ValdezGreene said...
Why is LePage so angry over people being on welfare? It worked well for his family when he was growing up poor in Lewiston.
July 30, 2010 at 4:22 PM Report abuse
grumblestilt said...
"What a way you are using to try to throw garbage and get people to get on board to get the campaign off track from the issues." How we treat Maine's seniors is a key issue. The character - or lack thereof - is also an issue. Another major issue is LePage's lack of experience - of which his horrific statements are reminders. A couple years as Waterville's part-time mayor under a full-time city manager just isn't that much political experience. If you want to hold Libby Mitchell's decades of experience against her, you need to consider the alternative - and, in LePage's case, it's not pretty.
July 30, 2010 at 4:31 PM Report abuse
longpondloon said...
Hey y'all don't get your knickers all in a knot. I understand that next week Numnits does a same type article on Elizabeth..
July 30, 2010 at 4:42 PM Report abuse
PDF said...
It is not a question of being Catholic or French Candadian...these are red herrings...The real question to me is LaPage's lack of compassion. At a city council meeting in Waterville (according to the Sentinel) he asked why the city should return a citizen's mobile home who was willing to pay three years back taxes..$1800. Wouldn't it be better for the city to sell the mobile home and make a profit. Do we really want the scavanger mentality turned on Maine citizens?
July 30, 2010 at 4:54 PM Report abuse
CitizenICan said...
That was a terrible article, sounded like an argument with only one person arguing. The other actually runnning for governor. If you ask insist and push a religious theme of "forcing teachers to teach creationism in school" on a candidate it seems like you're badgering him about his beliefs to me. I know many catholics and other religions that stand for more than simply religious schooling, but you'd never know it by the liberal questions.
July 30, 2010 at 4:55 PM Report abuse
HoHum said...
grumblestilt do your research, LePage pushed for the Mayor to become a part timer and pushed to hire Roy. It is all there in his first term as a full time Mayor then hired Roy after the CHarter was changed. clueless some are huh Valdez?
July 30, 2010 at 5:16 PM Report abuse
Abetterplace said...
The liberal bias of Nemitz has been well established, so of course he will pick apart the candidate that he doesn't agree with. He is an opinion writer. The real issue of the campaign is the ECONOMY AND LACK OF GOOD PAYING JOBS IN OUR STATE. And Libby and Cutler (remember he worked in the Carter Administration)they can't touch LePage on the real issues. Remember the definition of insanity is to keep doing the same thing and expect different results - the liberals have had free rein in Augusta for over 30 years. Feel free to educate yourselves before you vote for Governor www.lepage2010.com
July 30, 2010 at 5:51 PM Report abuse
TheSaint said...
oldgrump said... TheSaint said... This is all small change. Nothing but junk news. ******* Like so many people, you seem to have a bit of trouble distinguishing between a news article and an opinion piece. ____I fully understand what Nemitz is attempting to do. He hopes to impress his boss with a flurry of readers based on half-truths and misinformation. At the end of the day OldGrump, this will not get you or I, and the State of Maine out of the fiscal economic hole we've got ourselves into. Will it? Look, I voted for Obama and will again. I'm a registered Democrat since eons ago. In this case, of all the gubernatorial candidates, I believe LePage can do the most in shaking things up like we need every few decades. Just like independent Jim Longley attempted in the 1970s. I highly doubt LePage can screw things up any worse as they currently are in this State. If he doesn't succeed, I'll dump him after one term. My guess is he'll earn my vote. Just like Obama has.
July 30, 2010 at 5:57 PM Report abuse
ValdezGreene said...
Peruser2, Your comment, second from the top, was so right on the money! You are correct, LePig won't make it to November. In fact, though his "supporters" don't actually grasp it, this buffoon demanding questions "in writing" only is basically a declaration of defeat. He's waving the white flag. I think he's gone by Labor Day. The reason why he can't respond isn't just that he is so inept, but because he has a completely amateur staff. I'm sure that appeals to the wingnuts who nominated LePig, but in the real world you want to put professionals in charge. This is really shaping up to be an astonish train wreck, which is ironic, given that his "whistle stop" tour is what put it all in motion. Something was going to take this guy out, he's too unintelligent and unaccomplished to even muddle his way to November. Wonder if there will even be a single Gubernatorial debate? If there is, wow, I want a ticket! It'll be FUN!
July 30, 2010 at 6:11 PM Report abuse
napper said...
Honest appraisal of simple facts. This guy LiePage is getting what he dealt to many others before. I recall what goes around comes around. LiePage...your turn is up and your burnt toast
July 30, 2010 at 6:34 PM Report abuse
Divinity said...
"I figured I'd have ample opportunity between now and November to speak with you by telephone or in person and scope out who you are and where ..." - Bill Nemitz _______________________________________________________________________________ Several of my patients are census workers. If it makes Bill feel any better, I'm told that his challenges getting at the who, where, and when questions are not exclusive to journalists. I recommend Diazepam, but check with your own physician. Let her know that you expect this condition to continue for more than 90 days.
July 30, 2010 at 7:30 PM Report abuse
EYESOPENED said...
Wow the truth is out this rag really is anti-Lepage or was it just anybody republican. I was going dem but after this attack it proves to me he must be worthy. if this rag is that afraid of him
July 30, 2010 at 8:08 PM Report abuse
bethee said...
I love how everyone is accusing this paper of being liberal when the only candidate who receives any coverage is LePage. But as soon as a few negative opinion pieces come out everyone calls foul. I find the sentinal to favor LePage more than any other candidate, and as for liberals being vicious when threatened how is that any different than Rush Limbaugh or Glenn Beck? It's not.
July 30, 2010 at 8:48 PM Report abuse
Robinwhod said...
Which candidate will give away the most free stuff? It is free, right? What the people working have to pay for it!
July 30, 2010 at 10:52 PM Report abuse
Kate said...
Just wake me when this is over. It isn't even August yet.........
July 30, 2010 at 11:28 PM Report abuse
TheLeRue said...
Why is LePig so angry about people being on "welfare"? It was good enough for his big family when he was growing up poor in Lewiston.
July 31, 2010 at 8:59 AM Report abuse
c2hlenp6 said...
When a candidate comes up with the idea of not giving immigrants our hard-earned tax money, for food, housing and whatever else. I think we allow the Samolians to collect welfare/benefits, for 7 years???? When someone puts into place a period of 6 months, contribute or get the hell out of our country,,,my thoughts about politicians are...they want the role so they'll be set for life with a check from the Government, until they expire. What a joke.
July 31, 2010 at 9:16 AM Report abuse
TheLeRue said...
There is a difference between making brave pronouncements and actually UNDERSTANDING the issues. LePig can't even answer questions unless they are in writing. The only question is why his "supporters" are so irrational.
July 31, 2010 at 9:36 AM Report abuse
TheSaint said...
heLeRue said... There is a difference between making brave pronouncements and actually UNDERSTANDING the issues. LePig can't even answer questions unless they are in writing. The only question is why his "supporters" are so irrational._______I have a gut feeling, call it a hunch, that you're actually working to get LePage elected. I say that because you're turning off the bulk of people you are trying to convince. In turn that seems to be working in LePage's favor. Also, oddly you don't seem to endorse any other candidate. I'll bet several people on the fence will vote for him just to spite you. What are you going to do then?
July 31, 2010 at 1:54 PM Report abuse
TheLeRue said...
The top 10% of Americans now earn around 50% of our national income and this clown is worried about people on welfare! Wow, there really are suckers everywhere. It's bad enough this creep has such misplaced priorities, but to think he'd demonize the problems of America's shrinking middle class as being caused by people on welfare is evidence of his absurd, ignorant and quite anti-egalitarian "mind."
July 31, 2010 at 3:22 PM Report abuse
TheLeRue said...
People supporting someone like LePage, a surpremely unqualified, ignorant person who isn't up to the job of Governor, raises an interesting question about human nature. It is striking that the people who most dislike the whole idea of healthcare reform, for instance, - the ones who think it is socialist, godless, a step on the road to a police state - are often the ones it seems designed to help. In Texas, where barely two-thirds of the population have full health insurance and over a fifth of all children have no cover at all, opposition to the legislation is currently running at 87%. There is either a self-loathing among Republicans or an addled sense of confusion that places the concept of being a Republican far ahead of being RATIONAL.
July 31, 2010 at 3:33 PM Report abuse
Solo said...
Hey Nemnutz, admit that you still wet the bed!
August 1, 2010 at 8:34 AM Report abuse
TheLeRue said...
Solo, You just did what you accused Mr. Nemitz of doing. Wingnut.
August 1, 2010 at 9:31 PM Report abuse
Zuberu said...
Let's face it, Maine...we're screwed. Republicans want Lepage and Democrats want Mitchell. Both are seriously flawed candidates. Mr. Lepage appears to be a religious zealot and has no idea what that means. Ms. Mitchell is old politics. Her speeches following the primaries were the old rhetoric of elections past. I'm not too keen on either choice here, both parties are screwing us over with fantasies of budget being balanced, education getting 'fixed', and just plain lunacy about 'my party is better than your party'. Perhaps it's time to move away, like all our young continue to do.
August 1, 2010 at 10:56 PM Report abuse
workingclass said...
Go LePage!
August 2, 2010 at 5:51 PM Report abuse
workingclass said...
Bill Nemitz, you're a tool.
August 2, 2010 at 6:04 PM Report abuse
Jaggard said...
Too many people sit on their butts and let us middle class people support them. When something breaks for us, we have to wait until we can afford to fix it, if we can afford to fix it living paycheck to paycheck. Live in welfare housing, and it gets fixed right away. They get enough food money to buy really good food, when I have to buy the bargains. I work two jobs to survive, and they just live off mine and others like mine wages. Yes, some people need help, but when over half of the population is collecting some sort of welfare, something is wrong with the system. Lepage wants to do something about this, and I'm all for that. People should have to contribute some of their time to be able to collect welfare. Open day care facilities and make them work. They should have to do some type of work for their money. Mr. LePage, more power to you. I'm going to vote for you even though I'm a democrat. Keep up the good work.
August 4, 2010 at 9:55 AM Report abuse
DuaneL said...
Kate said... "It sounds as though Mr. Nemitz is afraid that Mr. LePage might win. And I hope he does!!!!! Ever notice Liberals get vicious when threatened??" Really, by the sounds of the responses in here from the 'baggers, liberals aren't the only ones who get vicious when threatened.
August 4, 2010 at 10:01 AM Report abuse