This release from Democratic mayoral candidate John Gomes is hysterical. He seems to think there’s speculation he’s dropping out of the race. Who started that rumor? Lagging in the polls and lacking money (beyond loans he’s given to his campaign), Gomes may yet become Mayor Bill Finch’s best friend in this primary. In fact, if I’m the Finch camp I’d have my supporters finance Gomes’ race just so he stays in and splits up the anti-Finch vote. Gomes, in this release written by his new campaign handlers who are trying to raise money so they can get paid, says he respects challenger Mary-Jane Foster and then goes on to trash her by claiming she’s really a machine candidate and four more years of Finch. Gomes thought “the machine” was fine when it gave him a job. But when he was let go, different story. Ah, such genuine love! From Gomes:
Bridgeport Mayoral Candidate John Gomes: ‘This Fight is Just Beginning’
Today, Democratic candidate for Mayor of Bridgeport, John Gomes made the following statement to address speculation of his withdrawal from the mayoral race to endorse another challenger, Mary-Jane Foster. Speculation is that this endorsement would help increase the odds that incumbent Mayor Bill Finch would fall to defeat in the Democratic Primary on September 13th.
“My campaign for Mayor has just begun. The citizens of Bridgeport are sick and tired of the way City Hall conducts business as usual because it is controlled by a political machine that will not tolerate reform and a return of honest, transparent policies and practices.
“I am the only candidate in this race who represents a fundamental difference in the way leadership should be exercised. I am someone who can bring about the reform this City so desperately needs; beginning my very first day in office.
“I respect Ms. Foster, but it is crystal clear that she cannot deliver the kind of reform needed to revitalize downtown, produce jobs, save our public education system, and make our streets safer. As Mayor, she would carry out four more years of Bill Finch.
“Ms. Foster wants to take control of the machine from Finch and take the reins for herself. I want to break the machine and destroy its suffocating hold on this City. I want to give control of this city where it belongs, to the people who live here. Only by breaking the control and power of an old, outdated, and often corrupt political machine that blocks progress, can Bridgeport truly move in a positive new direction.
“Politicians whose values have been compromised, and who are not connected in any deep-rooted way with people living here have encouraged the machine’s influence to grow. I am a product of this city and its public schools system. Bridgeport is where I raise my children and run my business. I’m the only candidate with the background and knowhow to be the Mayor for all the people.
“I understand that most of the old-school machine politicians would prefer for me to leave this race. I am not their candidate nor do I wish to be. I am the peoples’ candidate and this fight is just beginning.”
What is hysterical about it? I imagine this was written in direct response to what is posted here day in and day out, i.e. that Gomes should fold to Foster in exchange for a job because the two of them together is the only way to beat Finch. He is lagging in the polls? What polls would that be? The ones conducted on behalf of OIB by a polling firm known for its bias? And where exactly did he trash Foster? It merely states she is more of the same. It is very sad how candidates other than Foster are treated on this site. My head is still spinning from the way Coviello was raked over the coals for his press release.
I agree totally, he trashed the machine, not Foster. If he didn’t feel he was a better all-around candidate than her he wouldn’t be in it.
The polling firm Merriman River Group is biased toward Joe Ganim and Bill Finch? They’re leading in the polls.
My point exactly. A poll that has a convicted felon who is not even running beating everyone and the challenger in this race the longest dead last.
Most times, Lennie doesn’t continue the discussion.
This is one time I understand why.
He implied Foster would keep the machine intact. That’s insulting in my book. Perhaps Mary-Jane gets the most kudos because she is the most capable, and has the best chance of beating Finch. If Gomes still really lags in the polls in the near and doesn’t drop out he doesn’t care about getting Finch out and a capable person in, he cares only about John Gomes and becomes a Nader-like spoiler and it would be the end of his infant political career. Revenge is a dish best served cold. Don’t get left out in the cold, John. Give it your best shot and if your polls and your dollars don’t go up, drop out. Be a smart politician.
I think that’s exactly the point he is trying to make, that is he is not your typical politician. Whatever the outcome of this election, I believe this man has a bright future. This may not be his time but this man has got what it takes.
flyonthewall,
Revenge is a dish best served cold, one of my favorite Nietzsche quotes. My second favorite one is That which doesn’t kill us makes us stronger.
Foster will keep the DTC machine intact. She offers no opposition to the Common Council representatives who are entrenched with Testa. A vote for MJF is a vote to Mario. Gomes has the foresight to cast their collective asses out by running an opposition slate. I will not support or vote for any candidate who thinks they can work with these whores.
AT,
Whether you announce and run an opposition slate or not … and whether that opposition slate were to win in numbers enough to make a difference … which seems to be a fantasy at this moment in time from the publicity given to the issue, your primary duty at this time is to get your name, face and sufficient stand on issues out to the public. Mary-Jane, John, Charlie, and Jeff have each used different methods so far to do that, and the poll results are indicating the traction so far.
Mayor Finch and his City employee minions have been serving up opportunities with the School Board, Black Rock sandspit, public safety issues, and silence on Bridgeport finances (end of year deficit?) that they are their own worst enemies. Perhaps they should all furlough themselves plus sick days and vacations until the primary so as not to do further damage.
In the meantime have you given thought to what a City Council, this City Council in particular would act like without communication from Bill Finch’s office?
* Would Tom McCarthy be working his butt off in labor relations every day, researching the fairest way today to treat labor, but get to sanity for the taxpayers of Bridgeport? Or would a new Mayor let him use daytime however he wishes to complete his Council tasks?
* Would Council members who work for the City or have close family members who do, continue to vote in a machine manner, or with the Mayoral bully pulpit used in a different way, need to take better care of citywide issues than they have under the machine?
* Would the Council begin to use their legislative support resources to dig down and research issues they will have to vote on? Will they find representation is a serious issue and fold when there are more than 2 or 3 Council members who speak up against issues that flow without discussion today?
Several months ago I suggested OIB folks read PASTA AND POLITICS by Buddy Cianci. His first term as a Republican with a mainly Democratic and intransigent Council was difficult, but he prevailed. The Machine mechanism has broken Bridgeport and a new person, not affiliated with the Machine in any current fashion, can cause the Machine to break down. That would be healthy for Democrats, Republicans, Independents, Working Family members, etc. …
B2, what’s your point?
Read AT’s comments on ‘failing to run an opposition slate for Council.’ I disagree with AT on this issue. I suggest the candidate for the top spot’s job at the moment show up in whatever modality, person, print, other PR, other people’s conversation, etc. they have, gain identity, support, friends and funds to keep getting closer to the primary. That’s all. Agree? Disagree? Maybe you can read the two posts together?
BEACON2,
As always, a well-thought-out job. B2, humor me with a stroll down memory lane. Four years ago Finch got elected and was not going to be dictated to by Mario or the Common Council. Guess what happened, they all laughed. He was told “You gotta come along to get along.” Finch became another gear in the DTC machine. Another example is our own BOE. Three non-lemmings upset Mario’s applecart by actually doing their jobs for the children of BPT. Furthermore Mario was threatened by the possibility of losing three or four seats in this election to the Working Families Party. Control of $150 Million school projects was slipping away and he gutted democracy like a deer. Mario was afraid of 3 members becoming a 6-member majority. People who scrutinize budgets are his greatest threat, so rather than risk losing power Mario removed our right to vote. The same holds true for our Common Council representatives. Testa wants bootlickers who will do what they are told to do, not what they were elected to do. B2 ,it’s like mold, if you don’t get rid of all of it then it will return.
Anti, that poll’s a joke, it has no real use in this campaign, next the poll will stick Caruso and Fabrizi in it, just to see how Joe Ganim stacks up. A pure and utter bullshit poll. Who paid for this flucking poll anyway; MJF?
A reliable source of mine told me John Gomes went to MJF to make a deal resulting in some sort of high position in her administration.
Just to let all of you know, she doesn’t want to be beholden to anyone and wants to remain independent of ALL the flies and leeches associated with Mario and Finch and Roach and Stafstrom. And … they are all running scared because of her position in this matter.
The Queen eats alone?
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again … John Gomes would make a horrible mayor.
Gomes’ press release is pure and utter bullshit. He spent all his time dissing MJF and to no avail. Yeah I know he attended every BOE meeting and you know what so did the chair he sat in. He has said squat about the problems in the BOE so sitting quietly at BOE meetings is like not even being there. Running a deli and being a salesman does not give anyone a leg up on the mayoral race.
As far as breaking the machine that’s a pipe dream, tell me what you are going to do to make Bridgeport better.
tc,
“Sitting at a meeting and not saying anything is like not being there.” Congratulations, you just defined MJF’s campaign platform. If she decides to run an opposition slate to throw all of these assholes out, you can count on my support.
Will the Republican party cross-endorse MJF and put her on their line in November and bring her home to victory?
Will Fabrizi, Caruso, or Ganim plug into the Gomes campaign?
Will Local Eyes get hit by a Mack truck?
“Inquiring minds want to know.”
AWESOME … now the race has started!!!!!!!!!
Gomes has my vote!!!
Oh, bay-bee. We’re approaching prime time in Bridgeport politics and all the candidates are still scrambling for that all-important opening “positioning.”
Here’s today’s scorecard:
Corrupicut, your reputation is skyrocketing!
LFG is another DoomFreak–OIB has too many of them.
Merriman River Group’s a fine org but during the off season their results are sometimes skewed by their sponsors. Ganim’s not a candidate but this blog’s impressario put him there.
flyonthewall offers unimpressive advice and remains on the sidelines while Gomes remains in the race.
Gomes’ political firepower is still invisible but he’s made all the right moves and circled the right date on his calendar. Fortune favors the prepared …
Don’t be surprised if the race for Mayor gets a late, long-shot candidate. Maybe someone like this:
priceless-the-book.blogspot.com/2009/04/mr-whipple-was-wrong.html
Circle the date, July 15, Gomes has woken up and made his move. It’s no doubt MJF needs Gomes to win, obviously Gomes doesn’t feel he needs her. Let it play out LG, no need for you to trash the man. We know you like MJ, we all do.
Local Eyes–I read your piece and it was nonsensical–Congratulations, you’re still an asshole.
OIB Rumor Mill:
FDA Drug Gets approval.
AntiRonin gives its users superhuman powers to overcome the negativity produced by its namesake.
Congratulations on having a blockbuster drug named after you.
Here’s the point: Only in Bridgeport represents the big time. Look in the mirror and ask yourself if you belong here.
I certainly do, you certainly don’t.
*** RUMORS START AN OIB WORDS FIGHT! *** BPT LOCAL POLITICS IS ALIVE & NOT WELL. *** PICK YOUR POSION, NO? *** TIMES A WASTING. *** DTC ENDORSES FINCH? *** VOTER AWARENESS? *** MAYBE NEXT TIME! *** BLAME GAME. *** ETC. ***
Anyone who thinks Gomes can win is smoking crack.
ANYONE who thinks John Gomes is already a non-factor is smoking something … and doesn’t understand politics in Bridgeport.
His power has yet to be recognized because the countdown hasn’t reached its peak.
Oh anna, you have so much to offer as usual.
Gomes obviously has as good a chance as anyone else and chose to ramp it up today. I say it’s about time, no more mr. nice guy. Kick ass, Johnny.
If he has as good a chance as anyone why doesn’t he have any money? Why is he now personally in debt to his campaign? Maybe he is willing to put his money where his mouth is, but no one else will. Just saying, just the facts. Meanwhile, MJ’s support and cash increase. It doesn’t mean Gomes is not smart or a bad guy, it just means this isn’t his time. No shame in that. It takes more courage to self-sacrifice for the greater good than to be a spoiler who hurt everyone who wants Finch out. The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few or the one … paging Captain Kirk or Charles Dickens. Local Eyes, you are still sucking up to Finch so I see you as the lame one. MJ is her own person and has the most ability to make it without the machine. MJ’s umbrella is big and inclusive, but she isn’t kowtowing to anyone.
BEWARE of posters who don’t capitalize their own OIB handles. It signifies weak self-appraisal and indecisiveness but can be easily fixed. Do the work.
fotw uses incomplete facts suggesting he knows little about campaigns. If he supported my campaign, I might repudiate his vote. Just saying …
Chosen 1 makes keen observations and is a rising star on OIB.
yahooy, however, overestimates his own education and shows it every time he blogs!
THIS BLOG needs a PRODUCTIVITY INDEX to offset those who post but don’t produce. Why should my posts carry equal weight compared to someone who posts while using a library computer?
anna–it’s “really” nice you could take your nose out of Finch’s butt long enough to comment on the OIB site. You should come up for air more often.
Ronin, are you related to yahooy? You spew the same verbal stench. Blech! Gomes can’t win!!!
anna, you palindromic putan, I have never varied from my position that Gomes cannot win. If he stays in the race he will steal precious votes from MJF making a Finch victory a certainty.
Ronin, you really are just a miserable person trying to put a bee in everyone’s bonnet, aren’t you?
They make anti-depressants for these kinds of things.
Very disappointed in John Gomes. Is this what he is paying his new campaign staff for? The enemy is Bill Finch–not Mary-Jane Foster.
Good point, very good point, chs!
The anti-Finch vote must unite. It is the only way.
anna–you remain beneath contempt.
Mary-Jane will clean house. She owes no one and is her own person. John Gomes knows this. Why he is trying to define her as something she is not has to be chalked up to bad campaign advice from his team. It is not easy to consider giving up a campaign you have been working at for well over a year. I can understand that, however at some point the situation becomes clear, even to the people very, very close to the situation. I think he will see how the next few weeks play out. Ultimately he does not want to see Finch re-elected, and I have to believe he is smart enough to do the right thing at some point.
We are all of us failures–at least the best of us are.–Sir James Barrie
So who wants to claim to be the best candidate for mayor now? Less than two weeks to go and Lennie still hasn’t put up the
July 27, 2011 countdown clock. I hear quite a number of DTC members are demanding a meeting with mayor Bill Finch–before July 27th. Some didn’t like his BOE decision. Paging Mario Testa. I’m available for proxy duty. Maybe tc can tell us what’s happening at the TC. Would Martha Santiago allow renegade members to pick the “lock” Lennie says Finch has? Will Mary-Jane Foster or others try seeking the nomination? Will Joe Ganim pull an upset and get the party endorsement? I can’t wait for the 27th.
“… Ms. Foster is not connected with this community and hasn’t shown any interest in our school system until she decided to run for mayor …”
I’m surprised MJF hasn’t responded yet.
Read more: www .ctpost.com/news/article/Bridgeport-Mayor-Finch-s-remarks-on-school-board-1468661.php
Adam Wood, Finch’s chief of staff, said Friday the mayor’s comments were taken out of context.
Adam believes if you repeat something in Bridgeport Finch says in Hartford, that is out of context.
Don’t worry Bill and Adam. Remember the voters in Bridgeport don’t count. Santa Ayala thinks so and now Bill Finch is on record, too.
Adam Wood must be getting very tired of defending open-mouth-insert-foot Bill. If they want any chance of winning the primary they need to duct tape his mouth and lock him in a closet for the next 2 months. Not that I want or expect him to win!!!
The truth is, this is how Bill Finch really thinks. He is a white boy with a conservative Trumbull upbringing. He looks down on the people of Bridgeport and always has. He cannot relate and doesn’t care about the Bridgeport people. Period.
As for John Gomes… I can not adequately express my disappointment in his latest remarks against Mary-Jane. His new campaign staff is guiding him in the wrong direction … right into the hands of Bill Finch.
Lastly, Mario’s comments in the CT Post today accomplished one thing: guided more people to the “Anyone But Finch” Barnum blog. Thank you, Mario.
From the CT Post
“It’s clear that Ms. Foster is defending the status quo — that failing schools are OK for our kids,” Wood continued.
Up until two weeks ago Bill Finch was the status quo on education. And his idea about school funding was to keep the status quo for four straight years. It was only when he was desperate to claim he did something, he threw the school system under the bus, declared Bridgeport votes are felons and illegals and ran to Hartford and testified to the fact.
OIB
Finch doesn’t have control of the machine. The machine has control of him. He is a pawn, a spineless puppet inserted into office by the nefarious and the narcissistic. Testa wants to sustain all of the practices and polices that has led this city in a downward spiral for so many years and makes us the laughing stock of the nation.
I don’t believe MJF is planning on sustaining the machine. It is reckless on the part of Gomes to say so. I guess he is a stupid son of a bitch. He doesn’t realize he does not have the qualities and characteristics we need in a mayor who will return our city to prosperity and prominence. He fails to realize he cannot win, but through an alliance with MJF he will be able to make a significant contribution to the renaissance we all deserve and has been denied us by Mario Testa and Paul Timpanelli.
It’s a shame his attitude can cost us our well being. Staying in the race will surely give Finch the victory.
We were close to getting rid of these people last time. I’m not suggesting Caruso would have been the panacea who catalyzed a revitalized Bridgeport. He would have been better than what we got.
Keith Rodgerson had an opportunity to make a difference but he played into the hands of Mario Testa and refused Caruso’s request that he give his independent slot to Chris in the general election. While celebrating Finch’s victory at Murphy’s Law, Rodgerson was rewarded with a $25 per hour consulting job. Chump change.
Gomes certainly is not considering any offers from the calamarians. But his presence in the primary is only going to do the machine good, not we the people.
The right thing, Mr. Gomes, is for you to approach MJF right now and pledge your support. I for one would be very comfortable with her as mayor and you as CAO. Try to imagine just how much you could accomplish in that role. Your vision is crystal clear, your judgement is flawed.
I already told him that. In person … one on one.
His judgement is sound and he has plenty of brains. But his passion and motivation for change have created a blind spot.
Bridgeport needs Mary-Jane Foster. And it needs John Gomes.
You should give that message to MJF. We, the people, want her in office AND we want Gomes on her staff in the highest oversight position. This is a team destined to achieve the results we desperately need. It is not a matter of MJF granting Gomes any accommodation for his support.
We, the people, MJF, want you as mayor TEAMED with Gomes. You both have the right stuff to reverse our tailspin to detriment.
The Finch people are eating this up. Finch must be made of Wood. Now Adam is doing his best Paul Winchell/Jerry Mahoney routine being Bill’s ventriloquist.
Life during Wartime:
If Local Eyes found himself in the same foxhole as yahooy, he’d consider changing sides!
yahooy has already spent real time in a foxhole. I assure you, there were no “Local Eyes” types with me or on either side of me.
Local Eyes,
It is wartime in Bridgeport. Political war. You are not a reporter about other reporters (as you so frequently attempt) but are a forward observer on sentry duty for the next several weeks. While on duty you must stay awake, be observant, keep your thoughts to yourself. Vigilance is important. HQ will send out someone to relieve you in a few weeks. You have been trained for this guard duty assignment. It is an important one. You know that. In the meantime do not forget the password.
Your challenge: Who goes there?
The response: Your relief.
Your response: What is the password?
Replacement answer: SHUT UP!
Your probable response: What do you mean … I should shut up?
(That’s the password LE. Please don’t get angry and shoot the new sentry …)
yahooy–from Marvin Gaye
I’m Your Puppet Lyrics
Artist(Band): Marvin Gaye
Pull the string and I’ll wink at you, I’m your puppet
I’ll do funny things if you want me to, I’m your puppet
I’ll be yours to have and to hold
Darling you’ve got full control of your puppet
Pull another string and I’ll kiss your lips, I’m your puppet
Snap your finger and I’ll turn you some flips, I’m your puppet
Your every wish is my command
All you gotta do is wiggle your little hand
I’m your puppet, I’m your puppet
I’m just a toy, just a funny boy
That makes you laugh when you’re blue
I’ll be wonderful, do just what I’m told
I’ll do anything for you
I’m your puppet, I’m your puppet
Pull them little strings and I’ll sing you a song, I’m your puppet
Make me do right or make me do wrong, I’m your puppet
Treat me good and I’ll do anything
I’m just a puppet an you hold my string, I’m your puppet
Yeah, I’m your puppet
Walking, talking, living, loving puppet
I’m hanging on a string girl, I’ll do anything now
I’m a walking, talking, living, loving puppet, and I love you
I’m a smiling happy face when you want me to
Even make you happy when you’re feeling blue.
Why doesn’t MJF approach JG to be his CAO?
Everyone says the OIB poll was rigged. If Gomes did a poll slanted to the minorities who are the majority he would win in a landslide. Just sayin’.
C’mon, yahooy. Even I understand you respect Bruce Hubler. Stop coaching players from stadium seats.
Local Eyes,
I don’t need yahooy’s help. In any case, I’m uncoachable.
A lousy wrestler, too.
I heard you two guys used to grapple for beers down at the Paramount. Foster can pin Finch and Wood if Gomes will be her tag-team partner.
The running time is running out.
Hubler was too gentrified to hang out at the “‘mount.”
Now that’s funny.
Dear Larry Harmon,
Thank you for your Ringling endorsement.
My grandfather was a real clown. His name was Emmett.
Visionaries often create blind spots in the eyes of observers. Blind spots are a byproduct of the process that enables candidates to focus like a laser beam. But if you’re going in the right direction, the blind spot doesn’t matter. Why? Everyone agrees change is needed.
If everyone is thirsty, it doesn’t matter if the water comes from Poland Spring, Perrier or the kitchen faucet.
I continue to think MJF would make a fine addition to the Gomes team.
Actually, I prefer Perrier.
Perrier!? You can’t handle Perrier!
All my foxholes have a strict no-Perrier policy.
I will not make an exception for yahooy.
I heard as of the June 30th campaign filing, john Gomes had $6,000 on hand. How can he pretend he is a credible candidate with so little money?
It is time for Mr. Gomes to seriously assess his campaign. If he goes as far as taking out petitions and cannot qualify, he will do serious damage to his reputation and political future.
He might only have 6 grand, but he has the people. Didn’t you learn from Linda McMahon, money don’t buy you love from the voters? MJ is sweating, Gomes stands alone with the people.
He does not have people, he does not have money, he does not have a message that resonates. All he has is an ego that won’t allow him to drop out of the race.
You can win ballgames by one run and you can win elections by $1.00.
This is 2011–it’s a great time to take a risk!
Local Eyes’ job in the Finch campaign is to keep Gomes in this race no matter what.
And he is getting paid more than $1.00.
Grin Reaper is incorrect. His ability to draw faulty conclusions is chronic.
I am unaffiliated with any candidate. We’re here to pontificate, remember?
bonus: cupcake puts the icing on this blog. She is very funny.
yahooy, not bad.
Ron–Please give me a call.
If MJF is so for change (I believe she is in this for ego as she HATES Finch and Stafstrom and won’t clean house), then let her bring her deep Fairfield and Westport pockets to the Gomes campaign. She can’t win and as we have seen on here the few backers who don’t live in our city are NASTY. She fully believed Gomes would bring the minority voters her way and felt entitled to the mayor’s seat because of wealth and privilege. NOT. She attacks Finch on a daily basis but has no platform. Caruso’s losing tactics. Jump on board the Gomes train, MJF, he would welcome you as a partner I am sure.
This is pure and absolute drivel.
MJF is leading Gomes in the polls no matter how you want to spin that truth.
MJF is leading Gomes in fundraising.
MJF is leading Gomes in cash on hand.
And yet the Chosen 1 says MJF should drop out and support Gomes because she can’t win???
I guess there is no room for reality in the Chosen 1’s world.
“I respect Ms. Foster, but it is crystal clear she cannot deliver the kind of reform needed to revitalize downtown” … can someone tell me how this is crystal clear, and how Gomes has a better plan?
Bob, you are an out-and-out liar. They had a nice coffee meeting and what you are blatantly lying about was never brought up ONCE. Go back into the hole you crawled out from.
Chosen 1, you let him out of the Barnes. Bob’s comment can’t be a total lie. You just confirmed there was a meeting. Now it’s your job to put Bob back in the Barnes.
That is certainly not MY JOB. As a interested voter who cares about my city I asked the proper questions of both person’s people. I know there was a meeting a while back and both sides told me the talk of teaming up was never brought up at that point. So I feel fully confident in called Bob a shit starter and a liar. PERIOD.
And what are you chosen for? I’m just a fly on the wall who has seen the shenanigans in Bridgeport for 40 years. I’ve watched Bridgeport go from a viable, productive entity to a dumping ground for incompetent, inept, unreliable, and self-centered crooked representatives. The list includes many current and recently former elected officials.
“Chosen 1” calls me a liar and a shit starter, but cannot back up his childish name calling with any substance. As an interested voter, but obviously a do-nothing, “Chosen 1” has chosen a path of avoiding the obvious. And that is Bridgeport needs honest, intelligent, accountable, transparent, non-nepotistic, non-cronyistic and streamlined government.
“Chosen 1,” you are an embarrassment.
And the Chosen 1 says “She attacks Finch on a daily basis but has no platform. Caruso’s losing tactics. Jump on board the Gomes train, MJF.”
From everything I have read, here is the John Gomes campaign. Vote for me. I am the people’s candidate. I will destroy the machine.
Talk about a Caruso wannabe! Please.
Reap, do us the favor and get your head outa your ass. Gomes has had a platform up on his website from Day 1. You and the pom-pomers are running outa bs to spread. You don’t believe in change, just the same ol’ song with MJ as the singer.
Gomes wants Change in the city council and the BOE … does Foster? That right there is a platform to respect … Foster is the same old song … Gomes brings true change.
Gomes has been talking about his full slate of candidates for 6 months now. When do we hear some names???
Grin, we’ll hear about which camps will produce an underticket. This should not be interpreted as an approval of such approach. Besides, the mayoral candidates can’t stop anyone from petitioning for a ballot spot–they can team up with them if they qualify. If 20 petitioners (Democrats) for City Council qualify, none of them are obligated to team up with a mayoral campaign. If a mayoral candidate likes, they would obviously sit down and talk about other options which may or may not include dropping out. I’m waiting to see how many—if any–petition for City Council. Where are those Republicans who switched party? I, for one, am thinking about it still.
Tax bills have been out. Two weeks now and very little has been heard about City finances. Who knows about City finances? Who cares? Is this important to the primary or to the election?
I happen to think so, but very few OIB readers do. (And Bill thought so too when he made “cutting taxes” his most important objective in December 2007.)
Let me attempt to tell this story again:
Finch plans, processes and gets the Council to approve a budget for the past four years. The budgets have not been truly balanced to start with because more items of current cost have been deferred in multiple ways, but the public does not know, or seemingly care to inquire. Easier just to complain.
An audit is done each year and comes out in late winter, seven to eight months after the closed year, but the only check and balance in our City system (Budget and Appropriations) shows no sign of reading the audit, or the important Notes that are contained that would allow them to ask intelligent questions during their hearings. (B & A members do ask questions, especially when BOB observers have been present. But the questions or their direction have no effect on the Mayor’s budget.)
And the Mayor’s Chancellor of the Exchequer, Thomas Sherwood, finds ways to answer when challenged because he is a professional and those who ask questions are in the financial Little League. This is our sad “check and balance” City situation.
Finally, we are sitting mid-July 2011, 15 days after the close of the latest fiscal year. The last public revenue and expense report shows the state of City finances as of FEBRUARY, 2011. It includes numbers from October 2010, a five month report indicating that monthly reports have not been filed regularly, monthly, as the City Charter calls for, with the City Clerk. Why not???
And there is no balance sheet, so what did we borrow this year to keep the City engine going? What has been sold? Tax anticipation notes? Bonding? Where is the info? If it were good, don’t you think Finch would be all over himself sharing the good news? The latest report has a June 2011 year-end projection of a $2,100,000 deficit. What’s the story, Bill? Time to ‘fess up. Maybe Adam Wood will have an announcement soon …
Instead the B &A this week took up a motion by three fellow Council persons, raised in January 2011, that basically is a cry for HELP to focus research and understanding within the Council. More research. Next month … wait and see … $$$
Why should MJF drop out of the race and support another candidate, let alone one who is far behind her in the polls?
The 27th of July is fast approaching (No OIB clock yet) and I’ve been doing my own analysis on what could potentially transpire in the weeks ahead. Mary-Jane Foster and Joe Ganim are the two to watch, Bill Finch is still the man to beat. I’m sure most people believe MJF’s campaign is over if she loses on September 13. I’m not ready to bet on that just yet. Will the Republican Party cross-endorse Mary-Jane Foster? Paging Mark Delmonico.
Imagine on the morning of July 26, 2011, you hear the Bridgeport Democratic Town Committee decided to not endorse Mayor Bill Finch and in a stunning turn of events, the DTC endorsed Bridgeport Police Chief Joe Gaudett. To make matters more interesting, you hear the Bridgeport Republican Party endorsed mayor Bill Finch. That scream you just heard was from our OIB friend tc. I can hear you folks saying, “Joel is so full of shit.” Guess what! Waterbury mayor Michael Jarjura was denied the DTC endorsement and instead they endorsed the Chief of Police. Michael Jarjura then switch to the Republican party and was endorsed by the Republicans.
I’m curious as to what kind of boost MJF could get if the Bridgeport Republican Party cross-endorses her. One thing is for sure, the ‘MOM’ (Money, Organization and Message) of MJF would not be a waste and a higher number of voters in the general election will still have the opportunity to chose from a bigger pool of strong candidates. No one else should apply for an RTC cross-endorsement. Republicans know MJF is a legitimate candidate with credentials and is the one who would most likely include Republicans and conservatives in her administration. She can be trusted by Democrats and Republicans alike.
Joel,
A very well written piece & fine idea. Several weeks ago I suggested Gomes should become a Republican and let MJF primary “Dollar” Bill. In the unlikely chance Finch won the primary we would have another shot at removing Finch from City Hall. This scenario would also permit them (MJF/GOMES) to continue with their egotistical popularity contest. Then everyone wins, especially BPT. Then Finch & his cronies will be at the unemployment office along with the other city employees he screwed. Where is the security detachment when you really need them?
Anti, you can’t be trusted, now you’re up Lennie’s ass or Joel, then you’re for Gomes and now you’re for MJF and then you’re for PT and the list goes on, make up your mind.
Next you’ll want tc to run for mayor. Or your friend Torres.
Cupcake,
My friendship with Rick Torres does not influence my personal opinion of politics. Democrats need to join forces to defeat the Finch/Testa machine. The Republicans appear to be reluctant to offer a candidate in this mayoral election. Perhaps the best choice for all parties really is a cross endorsement of MJF. Let’s face it, we need change.
Hey Lennie or Joel, next time use The Plagiarism Checker. 12:27.
Joel,
Here is another thought for you to consider. I believe George Estrada is a Republican. I know he was very respected in City Hall. The Republican Party should give some thought to approaching him as a candidate. Finch will win this primary & election unless there is a viable Republican alternative.
Bill doesn’t understand confession is good for the soul. This is why he is running a hide-and-seek budget and campaign. BEACON2, an accomplished fiscal writer, should pen, “Chicken Soup on a Shoestring! Good for the Sole!” Bill could falsely claim it was part of his green platform and the chickens were cooked free-open-ranged on the stove. Bill’s budget is like Heinz Ketchup. It’s full of anticipation and you know what else.
Bob, why is your handle in a different color and underlined?
Hector, that’s what happens when you list a website in your handle’s profile. You can click the name to go to the website.–Ray
Hector, I don’t run the website. You need to ask Lennie’s webmaster.
Thanks, Ray.
BEACON2 for City Council.
MJF is a great lady with a Caruso approach. What has she offered besides attacking Finch? She can’t win but if all other candidates croaked and Fairfield’s finest won, it’s 4 more Finch years in a female voice.
Gomes should run as independent with Ganim as his CAO … that way Ganim can’t dip into the till and the two can run this city, lmfao … politics makes strange bedfellows.
The debate about John’s viability is useless hot air until he shows he has organizational muscle during the petitioning process. The question that remains for his campaign is “Can he get enough signatures to get on the ballot?” If you have no money, then you’d better have foot soldiers willing to do the work. If you have that then a year of work and putting your own money in your campaign will prove to the doubters you are worthy of their vote and a real contender.
You yellow dog you, why are you bringing truth and reality to this all-MJ website?
I’ve awakened from my mountain slumber.
I hate Finch (my best claim to fame is as an 11 year old I slammed the door on him when he was campaigning–still proud of this minute political accomplishment of mine).
Gomes makes good sandwiches (and they are superb), but he doesn’t come across as the urbane yet (wo)man of the people I look for.
Coviello is a joke. Needs Nicorette and American Politics 101 class. Plus a real suit wouldn’t hurt.
–The Battered Bastard of Black Rock.
10thMountaineer,
May I ask what year you were 11?
I believe it was, uh … late ’90s? I’m currently feeling the pangs of middle age set in at the ripe old age of 23 years old. I don’t remember what Finch was running for or campaigning for, but it wasn’t mayor. That much I remember.
10th Mountaineer,
Thank you for your response, and I envy your youth. You are an intelligent individual who is an asset to this site. Come back more frequently, even if you are deployed.
A.T.
Lennie may be right on target as far as Bill Finch having a lock on the endorsement (sorry Joe Gaudett) and is expected to coast smoothly through the process.
We’ve been hearing a lot of spoilers in this race–mainly John Gomes and Joe Ganim. I’m throwing in Mark Delmonico as a potential spoiler. A cross-endorsement of Mary-Jane Foster by the Republican Party can present a problem for Bill Finch. If the Republicans cross-endorse MJF, it will be a boost to MJF’s chances of winning the primary. If she wins the primary, we have a new mayor as MJF would appear on both ballots. What would Finch or Ganim do then? Would Mario support either or both of them running as independent candidates? In a crowded field, who would fare better?
If Finch wins the primary, he will still have to face MJF in the general. What does Mario do? Encourage Joe Ganim to run and split the vote? Mario did state to the Connecticut Post he encouraged Joe Ganim to wait for his time.
Paging Lennie Grimaldi. When is the RTC going to endorse their slate?
A cross endorsement would essentially bury her. If she appears to be favored by the Republicans, “true” Dems would find it hard to support her.
It’s not a plan if you don’t have a back-up plan. Mario is a sharp cookie and I’m sure he has a back-up plan. I wonder if the other contenders have a back-up plan.
MJ’s whole campaign was based on attack Finch and pray Gomes came on board, ooops.
Off topic! I will sell or trade my facebook e-mail account. You must be an elected official in order for me to agree to the sale or trade. The e-mail address is Emptysuit@facebook.com. Send all inquiries to this e-mail.
I think MJ and John Gomes will team up … sometimes the road has a few bumps along the way. They have time yet and they need to focus their efforts on communicating their vision and Finch’s destruction. John Gomes is not going to pick up any votes attacking MJ. His handlers need to take a different approach. They can make a good team and beat Finch. I hope cooler heads prevail and they come together to bring new leadership to a city that deserves so much more than Finch and his band of fools.
RW&B
I don’t really see where Gomes attacked your MJ. He said she never attended a BOE meeting until running for mayor … TRUTH.
He said she doesn’t have his skill set for mayor … TRUTH.
The fact is MJ just expected Gomes to be her savior; as we all know she has no backing in Bpt, it is all from the ‘burbs.
IF Gomes, and this is IF, reads this MJ website, he had to get pissed off at all the MJ people expecting him to be second to her. He was in this for over a year before MJ decided to run when she got DISSED by Stafstrom who threw her over for the extra Bond Council bucks. I have no idea what actually qualifies MJ to be a mayor, owning the Bluefish? Didn’t the city have to bail them out of financial troubles?
Have MJ call Gomes and throw some of that suburb cash his way.
Lennie, check this out!
www .salcedoforsenate.com/img/logo.png
Even better …
www .salcedoforsenate.com/biography.html
Chosen 1, you are thin on facts.
*** Some candidates hope to deal with the political machine while others wish to dismantle it, no? *** CHANGE! ***
All of the candidates have demonstrated the ability to attack each other, but little else. None have shown any understanding of the real challenges facing the City and the steps required to deal with them.
Some people vote because they feel their job depends on such (pathetic lemmings).
Some people vote because someone they respect has some machine moolah in that person’s pockets and they do what they are asked.
Then there are the people who fall in love with a candidate and turn a blind eye to what is real and fact, which is most of this OIB audience.
Then there are the people who weigh everything carefully and make their vote count for what is right.
Stop jumping on Gomes because he won’t team up with Foster. If you must point a finger for that point it at both of them or don’t point at all, do your due diligence and get involved.
Foster can just as easily check her ego and be number 1A also. There would be no number 2 if they team. Only a city of WINNERS.
No Bob, the embarrassment is you. Back up your lies, you can’t. Jobs were never discussed at their meeting, ask MJ.
No “Chosen 1,” the discussion about reconciliation occurred away from the meeting you know of. Once again you need to offer some sort of program to put Bridgeport back on its feet. Stop the stupid and sophomoric name calling and be a bit proactive instead of reacting to criticism. Bridgeport is a city with enormous potential that has been raped and pillaged by the powers that be for 40 years. The city’s assets have be allowed to become fallow and the flies and leeches who run the city use it as their own cash cow. Not one of the last few mayors had a clue as to how to generate revenue without raising taxes. And none are willing to cut the overbloated administrative budget, get rid of nepotism or cronyism.
What’s your angle except to complain and bloviate?
burman–I couldn’t have expressed it any better than that.
The Bridgeport Republican Town Committee will be holding their caucus tonight to elect candidates for the upcoming municipal elections. The caucus will take place at 6pm at the North End Branch Library. If the citizens of Bridgeport are looking for an alternative to the business as usual ways of the city, please take into consideration the candidates who will be running on the Republican ticket.