KY-2 race: Lewis surprises everyone by dropping out

Well, I don't think anybody saw THAT coming.

"That" was the surprise, last-minute withdrawal of Rep. Ron Lewis (R-Cecilia) from the Second District race.  Instead, claiming that Washington wasn't as fun since the Democrats took over last year, he pulled out and put his chief of staff, Daniel London, in his place.

Now McConnell's in a tizzy, and he's thrown his weight behind state Sen. Brett Guthrie (R-Bowling Green) who filed after somehow hearing that Lewis was going to get out.  I'm still wondering how he found out.

And, of course, let's not forget that the Democrats in the race are both from Daviess County.  While I'd rather have avoided a primary in this race, evidently Daviess County Judge-Executive Reid Haire, who will face state Sen. David Boswell in that very primary, didn't care what I thought.

Bear in mind, though, that Boswell has much more name recognition in the district and has a good, sound record on which to run.  Haire, however, is almost totally unknown outside of Daviess County.  For those unfamiliar with him, it should be known that Haire was the driving force behind a relatively unpopular countywide smoking ban a couple of years ago, and he has also been dead set against even the discussion of consolidating the governments of Owensboro and Daviess County.  The latter stand comes at a time when many at the grass roots level want to at least explore the concept.

With his greater name recognition and connections in and out of the district, and the fact that Boswell has not taken any seriously unpopular stands on the issues through the years, I've gotta believe that David has a huge advantage here.

Comments

[RickMalek]

I can't find the link but I remember last year Mark mentioning Lewis's horrible fund raising numbers and he speculated that Lewis might not run again.

[RickMalek]

Here we are:

http://www.bluegrassreport.org/bluegrass_politics/2007/11/ky-2-is-us-rep-.html

[RickMalek]

Here we are:

http://www.bluegrassreport.org/bluegrass_politics/2007/11/ky-2-is-us-rep-.html

[RickMalek]

Here we are:

http://www.bluegrassreport.org/bluegrass_politics/2007/11/ky-2-is-us-rep-.html

[lets go ky]

The Republicans have all but conceited victory to Senator David Boswell already. When their polling along with the “DCCC” showed Senator David Boswell with already a ten point lead, McConnell started his power play. I have to give it to Ron Lewis for holding out until the final hours to show a little spite to McConnell. McConnell knows that Boswell already has been flooded with support from across the Commonwealth and now with Lewis dumping on Hardin County voters, I’m sure they will be ready for true change as well. I agree with Mark’s comment on the Reid Haire filing. First I have always looked at last minute filers skeptically (it shows lack of confidence along with weakness) and wonder if others feel the same? My contacts in Daviess County (Reid is the Judge Executive there) say that Reid has some pretty big “skeletons in the closet” and they can’t figure out why he would want to expose himself to such scrutiny. As one prominent Democrat commented to me.., Reid is “dumb, dumb, dumb” (I like to regard it as being remarkably uninformed). Evidently, Haire has been irking the Daviess County voters and is known for grandiose ideas but no way of funding the projects. With today’s air of being fiscally minded, the voters are looking for someone who can do better with what you already have. Several have commented that Haire is borderline Repug and he has an ego problem. During Beshear’s general election campaign, he even commented during an Democratic Executive Committee meeting, “why should I promote Steve Beshear when he hasn’t taken the time to come to Daviess County”. Doesn’t sound like the kind of Democrat that is loyal to the party or maybe he doesn’t understand “Politics 101”. The consensus I have is that Haire is going to be embarrassed (but big ego’s are hard to crush in my opinion) and kill his chances of being nominated not only for U.S. Representative but also Judge Executive in 2010.

[Ultrablue1]

Wow, the republicans are dropping like flies in the Congress. We must be up to at least 20 who are not seeking re-election.

Lewis isn't the first republican to make the statement about it no longer being fun since they're no longer in control. LaHood said the same thing and he came into Congress the same year as Lewis.

They can't handle the pressure of no longer being able to push the Dems around and be the arrogant jerks they've been for the last 12-14 years. Karma has a way of setting your keister straight when you've been putting out so much negative energy.

I'm very excited to see Lewis leave! He's had his lips permanently attached to Bush butt and could care less about doing what's right for the people (unless those people are very rich).

[J. Newkirk]

You're going to find a LOT of people here in Daviess County who will do what they can to see that David Boswell is our candidate in the fall. Count on that.

The only reason Reid Haire has managed to keep his position is because no one else worth having in the Judge-Exec position has run against him. It's been rather funny to watch some of his foibles over the years. Not fun, mind you, because they affect the future of Daviess County, but funny.

David Boswell is commonly known as a good and decent guy. Interestingly and, indeed tellingly, I've not heard that - anywhere - about our Judge-Executive.

[WKDave]

It will be interesting to see what happens in this race now.

Boswell does have a voting record a mile long and 20 years of public statements that, if Reid doesn't use them against him in the Spring, the GOP will put the hurt on him in the Fall.

BTW as far as name recognition, who was Ag Commissioner before Farmer? No one remembers 5 years ago much less 20 years.

It was Billy Ray Smith.

[kentondem1]

By this time, the total of GOP open seats, must be approaching 30! I don't recall the last time this has occurred to either party.

Anyone remember ?

[J. Newkirk]

Kentondem, it has been a while. I really think it has to do with the perceived weakness of, well, everyone vying for the presidential race. No one wants to get on board with a potentially weak candidate, and I think that's what a lot of these folks are worried will happen once the McCain/Romney/Huckabee melee is over with.

Note that I did include Mike Huckabee in that statement. He's going to make some pretty strong showings next week. That could throw a monkey wrench into the works if he takes enough votes.

[J. Newkirk]

When I said "I really think it has to do with the perceived weakness of, well, everyone vying for the presidential race" above, I meant everyone on the R side. Not the D side. Sorry I didn't make that clear.

[loafalitle]

You wrote: "David Boswell is commonly known as a good and decent guy. Interestingly and, indeed tellingly, I've not heard that - anywhere - about our Judge-Executive".

Both men are good and decent and have dedicated themselves to public service in Daviess County. We are fortunate to have them. Now can we save the smear for the general.

[BluegrassRiver]

Ron Lewis got exposed as a dishonest and hypocritical politician last time by former state rep. Mike Weaver. Lewis was softened up by that blow and decided not to tempt it again.

Lewis always struck me as the kind of guy like Sen. Larry Craig of Idaho and his bathroom stall sex antics. Sanctimonious as all get out!

[Liberal Wisenheimer]

Goodness, a few of you have certainly misjudged Reid Haire. He's been a breath of fresh air in Daviess County and a big step away from the business as usual, good ol' boy politics that Mr. Boswell represents. As far as being an intelligent, good and decent guy, I don't know anyone that fits that description more than Judge Haire, nor with more honesty or integrity.

I understand that mud-slinging is an inevitable part of this process, but some of you folks are just way off base and I'd hate to see a great candidate discounted due to mis-information. I've read and admired this website for a long time and appreciate the opportunity to post. Looking forward to some healthty interaction here.

[western ky ace]

Both Reid and David are good men, the difference is that Reid cares about the district and wants what is best for this state. Reid has always worked to improve the county, I not sure we can say that about our other candidate. Judge Haire is the finest of gentleman and by far the best choice for this position.

[wktrue]

Looks like the Reid Haire folks have discovered trolling. I like the way two of the posts contain almost identical phrases "both are good men" then they take a shot at Boswell. Pretty amature...about like the bumper stickers

[Corky55]

As a former farmer in Central Kentucky, I've know Mr. Boswell since he was Ag Commissioner. I have watched his travels thru the General Assembly for years. He has a noticable record of not supporting the unborn. He caves in on pressure from the party bosses and does not stick to his convictions. He supported big money during the development of the Landfill in Daviess County by standing behind the owners of the Landfill in Ohio County. Shame on you David for not supporting the citizens that elected you. Now he is supported by one of the largest supporters of Casino Gambling for the Commonwealth. As a fellow Democrat, I thought you were for the common man and not the Republican way of supporting big money. I am still learning about Mr. Haire, and so far, I like what I had read. I have supported every candidate that ran against Ron Lewis. I cannot in all ethical manner support Mr. Boswell.

[western ky ace]

Being an amature explains the way that Boswell handled this whole thing. I have know both of these candidates for a long time and had respect for Boswell, even though I'm not sure what he has done while holding his Senate position, but not meeting with Haire and discussing the best option for this seat is very disappointing. Haire's record indicated that he has been a public servant most of his life, I think that is who I want leading the second district. And I agree with Corky55, Boswell has another agenda that scares me.

[lets go ky]

The Republicans are "licking their chops" in hopes of Reid Haire winning the primary. They have the goods on Haire and will use it to their advantage.

[Liberal Wisenheimer]

"""Looks like the Reid Haire folks have discovered trolling. I like the way two of the posts contain almost identical phrases "both are good men" then they take a shot at Boswell. Pretty amature...about like the bumper stickers""""

Kind of a lame response to some sincere testimonial. I'm not sure what kind of a response you're looking for but I suspect it's something along the lines of ; "I know you are, but what am I?". I don't think we're going to go there with you.

As far as being "amature", I'll wear that label proudly. I think the people of Kentucky have had their fill of "Slick", career politicians, who have held a variety of public offices over the course of their careers, when they weren't lobbying for special interests, of course. I'll take a candidate who is genuine any time. If I need someone to represent me in some special interest negotiation, I'll give Mr. Boswell a call, but tell him not to hold his breath.

[Liberal Wisenheimer]

"""The Republicans are "licking their chops" in hopes of Reid Haire winning the primary. They have the goods on Haire and will use it to their advantage."""

Tell your friends "The Republicans" to give it their best shot. I don't know of a more centered man than Judge Haire. By the way, when did the Republicans gain the moral high ground?

[western ky ace]

The Republicans are licking something,it must be the inside of their kool aid glass. Show us the "goods" you have or should we just classify all republicans as liars from the top down. I think if there was anything of substance it would have surfaced by now.

[lets go ky]

Christ teaches: But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. So he whom it concerns is always to be treated with personally, and not to be spoken of without his knowledge. But if that do not avail, then bring it publicly before the community, whether before the civil or the ecclesiastical tribunal. For then you do not stand alone, but you have those witnesses with you by whom you can convict the guilty one, relying on whom the judge can pronounce sentence and punish. This is the right and regular course for checking and reforming a wicked person. But if we gossip about another in all corners and stir the filth, no one will be reformed, and afterwards when we are to stand up and bear witness, we deny having said so. Therefore it would serve such tongues right if their itch for slander were severely punished, as a warning to others. If you were acting for your neighbor's reformation or from love of the truth, you would not sneak about secretly nor shun the day and the light.
All this has been said regarding secret sins. But where the sin is quite public so that the judge and everybody know it you can without any sin avoid him and let him go, because he has brought himself into disgrace, and you may also publicly testify concerning him. For when a matter is public in the light of day, there can be no slandering or false judging or testifying; as, when we now reprove the Pope with his doctrine, which is publicly set forth in books and proclaimed in all the world. For where the sin is public, the reproof also must be public, that every one may learn to guard against it.

[Liberal Wisenheimer]

Ummm, OK....... Not sure where you're going with this "quoting scripture" thing. Are you sure you didn't take a wrong turn on your way to the Mike Huckabee blog? You may want to head on over that way, they say Chuck Norris visits from time to time.

Let me know when you want to continue the political discussion,,,,Jeez,,,I remember my first beer.

[lets go ky]

Liberal Wisenheimer, the above post is the direct teaching from "Martin Luther". If I were to blog what "the goods" are that the Repugs have on Reid Haire, I would pray that my decision was based on these teachings. I do not feel it is my lone job to educate those who do not already know what "the goods" are. But I will say that with all certainty, that when you learn of the truth, I would hope you would lean on the words of Martin Luther as I have.

[Liberal Wisenheimer]

Let's Go Ky,
I'm anxious to hear "the truth" as you call it, but kind of skeptical. I suspect this may be some diversion into Rovian politics, that would be both dishonest and futile. Judge Haire is a fine upstanding citizen and a public servant with integrity, if you're going to dispute that, get on with it. I don't understand this "Martin Luther" road that you're going down. Let's put the issues on the table and dispense with the whispering campaign.

[Liberal Wisenheimer]

Tell the truth folks, does anyone really think that the Republican Party is going to let Mr. London stand as the candidate in this race? I'm sure Big Mitch has a fair haired boy in mind and it ain't Dan.

[Ed Marksberry]

I’m curious on how influential Ron Lewis is in Congress now (not that he ever was).., any thoughts on what he can or can’t do now that he is considered an impotent congressman?

[Liberal Wisenheimer]

I suppose he'll continue to do what he's always done; Rubber stamp the "Bushco" agenda. I can understand why he's retiring, carrying all that water for the special interests must have worn him out.

[Speaking Truth To Idiots]

Hey, check out PageOne Kentucky. Nickolas and Jody Richards in a pissing contest!!!!

[lets go ky]

So Reid Haire donated to Mitch McConnell's campaign. Check it out at BlueGrassRoots.org.
Some may think this is the skeleton in the closet the Repugs have on Judge Reid Haire, but this is minor compared to it.

[Liberal Wisenheimer]

I don't think it's minor,,,I think it's important to have a public servant who can reach across the aisle in order to get things done. The donation was in appreciation for a special needs center that was financed with millions that Big Mitch provided. I would suggest that the small donation was a token of appreciation for helping to get an important program off the ground.....

These "Skeleton in the Closet" comments are wearing thin. You clearly can't back them up. You don't strike me as very credible.

[lets go ky]

What does Bill Clinton and Paul Patton have in common?

[Liberal Wisenheimer]

Ummmm,,,,a command of the English language?

[WKDave]

no no no...their last names end in "ton" and their first names contain the letter "l"

[lets go ky]

Touché! I like both your styles.
Now what does Reid Haire and a one of your city commissioners have in common?
I heard that they have already merged county and city government.

[Liberal Wisenheimer]

Lets Go Ky,,,,,,I wish I could say the same about you, although the "merged government" comment was kind of cutesy in a knitting circle kind of way. Character debate is one thing, but character assasination is something else again. Judge Haire is a man of very high moral principles, of that I'm sure. He's a Father and Grandfather and a principle member of his Church and as such there are lines that he wouldn't cross, this being one of them.

Over the years I have been fortunate enough to enjoy good, professional friendships with a number of attractive women. From time to time there were small minded people who read more into the relationships than were ever there. As Republicans tend to be small minded, I suspect that is the case here. Shame on you for fostering this kind of thinking in what should be a debate centered on the issues important to the folks of this district. Both Mr. Boswell and the Republicans will need to do much better than this. As giggly as you seem to be about this, you have to admit, it's pretty lame.

[lets go ky]

Liberal Wisenheimer, shall we just save it for the general election or maybe you should dig around a little more at your County Courthouse. On character, Guthrie is known to be flawless, maybe a little too nice. So see you after the primary (if Haire were to win) and I'll let the party speak for itself on this character issue you have in Davies County.

[WKDave]

These types of accusations and innuendos are usually brought up near the end of a campaign by a candidate who is floundering. This seems awfully early to “go to the gutter.” Is Boswell already in this much trouble?

[Liberal Wisenheimer]

"and I'll let the party speak for itself on this character issue you have in Davies County."

LGK, We have no character issue in Daviess County. Judge Haire is part of a long line of upstanding, involved citizens of Western Kentucky. The interests of the district will be well served by him.

[lets go ky]

Liberal Wisenheimer, you wrote the following,
"He's a Father and Grandfather and a principle member of his Church and as such there are lines that he wouldn't cross, this being one of them". I think you left out, "he is divorced and voted against a resolution to provide a chapel (with private donations) to your county jail. We know why he is divorced but being a principle member of his church, why would he vote against such a needed project. I’ve been told that the recidivism rate is about 80% at your jail. I sure hope the rest of your "long line of upstanding, involved citizens" have a little more to offer than this.

[western ky ace]

So "we know why he is divorced" you must be his ex, or are just assuming again? And it is not a sin to be divorced. The reason for voting against the chapel was understandable, what if the Jews or Muslims wanted their own place, before long you would have more buildings than people. and who pays the maintance on these? It falls to the county, this was a very wise and fiscal decision.

[Liberal Wisenheimer]

"""""Liberal Wisenheimer, you wrote the following,
I think you left out, "he is divorced and voted against a resolution to provide a chapel (with private donations) to your county jail. We know why he is divorced but being a principle member of his church, why would he vote against such a needed project. I’ve been told that the recidivism rate is about 80% at your jail. I sure hope the rest of your "long line of upstanding, involved citizens" have a little more to offer than this."""""

Jeez LGK, it sure is difficult to get you away from tittering gossip and on to the issues, but you have given me something to work with here.

I think that if we've learned one thing over the past 7 years it's to keep Church and State as separate as possible. Clearly when it comes to religion, one size does not fit all. I'm leery of the faith based agenda and feel it is simple minded to think that exposing "wayward" citizens, unwed mothers, and drug users to Jesus will "cure" them. It does nothing to get at the root cause of their behavior. I think that Judge Haire was wise to oppose this initiative, it falls outside the jail's scope of responsibility to provide a captive audience for overbearing Baptists hoping to out-witness one another.

Now, this "we know why he's divorced" comment is pretty petty, even coming from you. The fact is; this is America and we are all entitled to "Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness", even our elected officials. Please don't take it upon yourself to define happiness for Judge Haire or anyone else. If, in his private life, he made decisions related to his pursuit of happiness, they were clearly private and inappropriate for you or I to speculate on. Do you have something against folks who more than fulfill their family obligations, yet at some point seek happiness for themselves?

[Liberal Wisenheimer]

I just caught a 42 second “You- Tube” spot on David Boswell’s visit to Hardin County. It was the first time that I’d actually seen and heard Mr. Boswell speak and it was pretty underwhelming. He strikes me as an old school politician and, I want to be tactful about this, but maybe Dave’s not the sharpest tool in the shed. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, the world needs all kinds, but it’s probably not a good fit for the grown up world of Washington D.C., where we would be counting on him to support the interests of our district and help steer the ship of state.

Dave seems to believe that his time in Frankfort’s “Dysfunctional Politicians Club “ make him uniquely qualified to be our congressman. This makes me question his awareness of what the people in our district are looking for, it certainly isn’t “bidness as usual”.

And Dave, you may want to get that suit pressed and buy a new tie, This ain’t radio, it’s the internet, ask someone about it.

[Speaking Truth To Idiots]

Was that a tumbleweed I just saw blow by?

This place is D E A D dead. Whatever happened to the idea of all these high-powered guest bloggers? Did that go the way of J. Miller's gubernatorial campaign?