A change-up: How does Congressman John Smoltz sound?
Atlanta Braves starting pitcher John Smoltz reacts after throwing his 3,000th career strikeout in 2008. AJC file.
Within minutes of U.S. Rep. John Linder’s announcement that he won’t seek a 10th term in Congress, the phone began vibrating.
Late this afternoon, a Washington source called with this surprise: One of the people likely to approached as a candidate for Linder’s seat by Republicans will be former Atlanta Braves pitcher John Smoltz.
Smoltz has been paying down some dues in several Republican contests in Georgia over the last two years. He’s been part of a fund-raiser for U.S. Rep. Tom Price of Roswell, and if memory serves, he cut a robo-call for U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss in ‘08.
Linder’s retirement has caught many Republicans off-guard. Who replaces him could be settled in a quickly approaching July primary – the district is trending Democrat, but not that fast. Advantage could go to someone who could put up his own cash, especially in this economy.
Two GOP names certain to be considering a congressional race are state Sens. Don Balfour of Snellville and David Shafer of Duluth. But both are tied up in a desperate session of the Legislature. Both would be free to raise money for a federal contest, but time becomes a big issue.
Smoltz’ advantage in name recognition would be inestimable. And right now, he’s a bit footloose. He hasn’t yet signed a contract for the season. This was written by my AJC colleague Jeff Schultz earlier this month:
Spring training opens next week and John Smoltz doesn’t have a job. This might unnerve most 42-year-old pitchers who don’t want to hear from baseball people or medical people or certainly Joe-in-section-312-with-nacho-sauce-on-his-chin people that his career might be over. But the waiting doesn’t bother Smoltz.
“I’ve been doing what I’ve always done this time of year — throwing every other day and getting ready for the season, ” he said by phone this week while driving to his workout. “I’m at a good place with everything that has gone on in my life. I’m just going to let this play out.”
He is not retiring. Nor has he decided for certain that he will hold off signing with a team until midseason — as Pedro Martinez did with Philadelphia last July — but acknowledges that is a possibility.
“A lot of people are speculating right now, ” he said. “But I can assure you it hasn’t come from anything that I’ve said.”
It’s possible that playoffs for Smoltz could come a little earlier this year.
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212 comments Add your comment
Not This Kind of Change
February 27th, 2010
6:22 pm
He may be a good candidate. I’d fear his divorce records becoming public though since he is not running against Obama the Messiah the chances may be low. Also there is that whole stint with the Red Sox that left a bad taste in the mouth of Braves fans with annoying Red Sox fair weather fans for neighbors
Limbaugh Needs to Exercise
February 27th, 2010
6:29 pm
No thanks–the state does not need yet another religious zealot.
TnGelding
February 27th, 2010
6:42 pm
He’d be as good as any. But look for a strong Dem candidate to emerge.
Right-Handed, Right-Winged
February 27th, 2010
6:43 pm
After Smoltz comes back to pitch 2-3 more years for the Braves, this sounds like a GREAT idea!
ATHtoATL
February 27th, 2010
6:43 pm
No… I don’t want to have to dislike John Smoltz.
Smoltz for Congress? — Peach Pundit
February 27th, 2010
6:45 pm
[...] name to consider, according Jim Galloway, is John Smoltz: Late this afternoon, a Washington source called with this surprise: One of the people likely to [...]
Chiparm
February 27th, 2010
6:49 pm
I love the use of the term “Obama the Messiah.” It’s typical trash from sheep and lemmings who accept as fact whatever “truth” their radio heroes present. You show disrespect to the President, yet bow down to Rush, Sean, Michael, and Glen (those whom conservayives call by their first name, as if they are friends).
BABY SAY
February 27th, 2010
6:51 pm
HHEE BEE DA WON!!!>> JONNY SUMTSLZ EYP HEE BEE DA WON. EN 91 BEET AS S TROS AN PUTT BRAVCS TO TY FIR FIRS. YEP JOHNBNNY BEE DA WONN BABY SAY LENDDER DO GUD JOB AN HE KAN RUN FIR GUV BABY SAY HE BEE DA WON FIR GUV!!!>>
SMULTS KAN WEN 2 BABY SAY WHUT BABY SAY IT GO@@!!!!
BIOMASS
February 27th, 2010
6:52 pm
Megadittos on the zealot comment.
"The Road to the Right"
February 27th, 2010
6:53 pm
Intriguing idea…knows how to deal with the biased media. His faith is an admirable quality absent in liberals. I always wonder how they wake up each day with no faith…Go Smoltzie! I’ll do a Draft Smoltzie for Congress facebook page….if it isn’t already done.
Farsider
February 27th, 2010
6:54 pm
I welcome Smoltz into the race. Might be one of the few scenarios that could provide a Democratic upset.
Moderate with Open Mind
February 27th, 2010
6:55 pm
As long as Mr. Smoltz doesn’t vote to give EVEN MORE free, taxpayer-earned money to the worthless FreakNik supporters and V-103 booty shakers who contribute nothing (of value) to society helps put more of them in prison, I wouldn’t have a problem with it.
yo
February 27th, 2010
6:58 pm
no way he’d screw us like he screwed the braves
M
February 27th, 2010
6:58 pm
You wonder how they wake up each day with no faith? Try it sometime…it’s a beautiful thing. It’s amazing how much sense life makes when you do it.
Skin And Bones
February 27th, 2010
7:03 pm
I second M’s comment. You just get up and do good works and don’t worry about getting into heaven. And you don’t go around hating everyone who’s different than you.
TPM
February 27th, 2010
7:03 pm
Yes- John Smoltz is repected because he can throw a fastball and he has done admirable things for the food bank. However there is a lot more there than meets the eye. He has bought and closed restaurants and left people without jobs. He has made disparaging remarks about the gay community. His temper on the golf course is also legendery.
Chiparm
February 27th, 2010
7:04 pm
I am a Democrat who loves Jesus. Guess what conservatives, you don’t really have a lock on faith. God and Jesus love me as much as they love you.
Pompano
February 27th, 2010
7:04 pm
The Guy is a jerk and a headcase. During his campaign, would he have to have his shrink sitting in the audience in a pink shirt?
Just what we need – another prima donna with no connection to the real world.
Ga Voter
February 27th, 2010
7:05 pm
Where do I send my $2,000 check? A great choice
Audrey in Georgia
February 27th, 2010
7:07 pm
NO republicans!!!
the guy whose home addition shaded John Smoltz's pool
February 27th, 2010
7:08 pm
NO!
Jeff Foxworthy
February 27th, 2010
7:09 pm
Can’t let him go to Washington. The church school ain’t done yet!
.
February 27th, 2010
7:10 pm
Chiparm you’re the DA..
John would do just fine and better than most.
1st Mrs. John Smoltz
February 27th, 2010
7:10 pm
Good riddance
The General
February 27th, 2010
7:10 pm
I can’t understand why some people insist that if one has no belief in a god that one can never be a moral, good, and worthwhile person. And any comments about ‘moral code’ coming from a god…you’re wrong, you just won’t acknowledge it.
Terry Pendleton
February 27th, 2010
7:10 pm
Another foul
Tom Glavine
February 27th, 2010
7:12 pm
Me first!
foncused
February 27th, 2010
7:13 pm
As an openly gay republican sports fan who is religious, and yes, I am single thanks for pointing that out, I think this is a terrible idea. What we need less of in Congress are individuals who base their decisions on religion and more on what is practical and pragmatic.
John, for all the great years he gave Atlanta, has been known to where his religion on his sleeve. I don’t preach, I try not to judge, and I certainly don’t condemn those who choose not to be religious or choose a different religion than myself. So Mr. Smoltz, if you want to run for Congress, please run to represent all of us . . . and not just those with whom your faith agrees.
barf
February 27th, 2010
7:13 pm
Ever notice how the metro gay/atheist movement jumps in these blogs at every chance they get to try and throw mud at anyone remotely religious? Disgusting! Then again, I can see what there motive is. Its always to promote there agenda.
Braves fan
February 27th, 2010
7:14 pm
Remember in the early days when Smoltzie’s shrink was in the stands to help his composure?
foncused
February 27th, 2010
7:14 pm
where should have been wear . . sorry about that.
Danson
February 27th, 2010
7:16 pm
Smoltz was so overpaid in baseball, how will he take such a big pay cut? Well, okay, it won’t be that much of a cut.
LibertyMediocrity
February 27th, 2010
7:17 pm
Yeah, all of John’s experience and education in foreign affairs and domestic policy should also be a plus. For goodness sake, the guy is a pitcher. We already have that idiot Bunning in the Senate as an embarrassment to the GOP. I want to vote for the Republican candidate, but candidates who are “cute but stupid” like Sarah Palin or have a good slider and bad facial hair are NOT what the party needs.
Danson
February 27th, 2010
7:17 pm
“…another prima donna with no connection to the real world.”
That’s an excellent point. Smoltz has never lived in the real world where bills pile up and you have to decide which ones to pay.
cjrad
February 27th, 2010
7:18 pm
BIOMASS ( I assume LIBERAL Massachusetts?) and S&D:
you sound pretty hateful and hypocritical.
TheTruthHurts
February 27th, 2010
7:25 pm
Actually Chiparm…
Obama makes himself look like an unqualified “Town Organizer” all by himself. He needs no help from “Radio people”! If Obama was a white guy he would have never been elected. His resume is the most suspect of any President in History. Our country wanted to have a black President so bad they rushed a guy in who was popular and gives a hell of a speech but lacked experience in leading people. Whatever color or gender our next President is, let’s hope he has better credentials. Of course anything would be an improvement over the lowest approval rating of any President in his first term in History.
P.S. In case you haven’t heard or seen the polls WE DON’T WANT GOVERNMENT RUN HEALTHCARE OR MORE TAXES!!!
Tom
February 27th, 2010
7:25 pm
I’ve never known Smoltz to be very politically involved. However, obviously a post game interview isn’t going to consist of questions about our national debt. But an athelete could inject themselves into politics if they wanted to.
He’s got enough $$$ to run, that’s for sure. It would be more interesting on capital hill. Especially if more congressional panels scrutinizing steroids in baseball.
Tom
February 27th, 2010
7:27 pm
Don Balfour should run (and win) Linder’s seat. Then Smoltz could take Balfour’s seat on the state level. Smoltz is too inexperienced for Congress.
cjrad
February 27th, 2010
7:28 pm
these AJC blogs are proof to me that there ARE truly computers in the county jails…
DirtyDawg
February 27th, 2010
7:33 pm
I knew there was a reason why I despised this guy. The whole time I just thought it was because he was a narcissistic, wife-dumpin’, greedy baseball player and charlatan that happened to have a great right arm, when, in fact, it was that he was just another Republican…that explains it all. Plus it fits right in with his buddy, and former BoSox pr**k, and perhaps the biggest jerk in MLB, Curt Shilling. Go ahead and run John, I’m looking forward to the world finding out that you may very well be an even bigger jerk that Curt – in fact that sounds like a campaign line for whoever your opponent would be – ‘A Bigger Jerk Than Curt’.
Of course, I know we’re talking about Gwinnett…and he is a fan of one of Georgia’s top candidates for ‘Embarrassingly Stupid Republican Congressman of the Year’ – Tom Price…so anything could happen, but clearly his, Smoltz’s, true colors will come forth, either in the primary or the General election.
By the way John, how’s that foundation of yours going. Guess if you decide to run for Congress, you’ll have to actually do some work on it – of course you can always convert it to a PAC.
Man, I really hate it when athletes go public with their politics…damn sure hope that young Mr. Heyward ain’t one of them repugs.
NORRIS
February 27th, 2010
7:35 pm
Smoltz would be great. He is a moral man with integrity.
tim
February 27th, 2010
7:38 pm
Let smoltz run so we can add another crybaby loser to out list of politicans.
Everyone remember this: Smoltz sued his neighbor because the neighbors house cast a shadow on his pool area. Boo Hoo.
Smoltz is currently being sued for 50k because he covered up defects in a home before he sold it.
Another low life loser!
Courtney
February 27th, 2010
7:40 pm
I love John Smoltz. Sounds great.
tim
February 27th, 2010
7:40 pm
Norris……Smoltz has NO integrity!
Tim
February 27th, 2010
7:42 pm
Funny, silly thoughts coming out of the mouths of “religious” people, like you’ve got the only line to God..Just take a breath, walk around your double wide, empty the spittoon and git back to watchin’ American Idol…
stands for decibels
February 27th, 2010
7:44 pm
“What’s next? Marrying an animal?”
–John Smoltz
JoeDawg
February 27th, 2010
7:45 pm
Smoltz has been pretty good about keeping a certain public image, in spite of his real personality. Anyone remember Bradley’s Blog about the “Real” John Smoltz? http://blogs.ajc.com/mark-bradley-blog/2009/06/05/john-smoltz-gets-his-wittle-feelings-hurt-imagine-that/
Alabama Communist
February 27th, 2010
7:45 pm
In amazing display of 4 Balls, Smoltz said he would pitch for the Durham Bulls part time and work 1 day out of the month in Washington….When press for a reason why only 1 day of the month for Congressional Work. He said ” WTF! Those lazy Umpires have never called a game right in DC! Besides I am working on a Tea Bag slider that circles around the Batter that nails Communists in the rear and promotes Jesus as the Iron Duke of Baseball and politics…”
Courtney
February 27th, 2010
7:46 pm
Linder was NEVER a Gwinnettian any way. Glad he is gone and Balfour hates the teachers. He will never win. I would vote Democrat over that bozo.
Mike30326
February 27th, 2010
7:47 pm
Sorry to hear that. I like John as a pitcher, but not as a politician. If only people would know where there lot in life was…ala Schwartneggar. Hopefully he is smarter.
stands for decibels
February 27th, 2010
7:47 pm
How does Congressman John Smoltz sound?
Since you asked, it sounds like loose stools plopping into the toilet bowl.
atlnative123
February 27th, 2010
7:48 pm
go smotlz’ie. Your experience for congress far exceeds what obambi had for our white house. I hope you run and win.
Ole Guy
February 27th, 2010
7:48 pm
So this is the way Georgia politics plays out…look, he may be one helluva guy but, for cryin out loud, he’s a ball player…a damn fine one but…HE’S A BALL PLAYER with no real track record of political acumen. His popularity AS A BALL PLAYER may be parlayed for political advantage, but HE’S A BALL PLAYER. Then again, this would appear to be simply another example of Georgia politics at its finest…those with no real function-related background making decisions for the rest of us (to be recited by a baratone to the accompaniment of the choir humming Battle Hymn of the Republic).
Are you saying Jesus Christ can't throw a curveball!?!
February 27th, 2010
7:48 pm
He should have plenty to do without muddying around in politics. Work for the Braves front office like Tommy. And to the fool who thinks the President of the United States is the least qualified in history or has the lowest polls I just have to ask: did it hurt to watch your boys (the GOP) lose by 9.5 MILLION votes thirteen months ago?
Go turn on your Fox News and dive right back into the mental gymnastics required to believe a single person is a marxist, socialist and a nazi all at the same time. Idiots.
Wifebeatin' fool
February 27th, 2010
7:51 pm
There is no way he will run. Why, do you ask? Because he will have to answer why he bit*h slapped the taste out of his wife’s mouth while having dinner at the Sea Island Cloister.
strom
February 27th, 2010
7:52 pm
Enter your comments here
Sgt Schultz
February 27th, 2010
7:59 pm
Bradley’s article about Smoltz was great. He’s a pitcher who is not such a great guy. Why would anyone want him representing us anywhere except on the mound?
Pierce Randall
February 27th, 2010
7:59 pm
I didn’t realize John Linder’s seventh district was so exurban. I thought it was more Gwinnett proper…
Sgt Schultz
February 27th, 2010
8:05 pm
Sorry! I linked the wrong article a second ago. This is the one worth reading.
Bring My Smelling Salts. Now!
February 27th, 2010
8:09 pm
Just what Georgia needs… another jerk in Congress. Everyone remember Smoltz’s response to gay marriage? (”What’s next, marrying animals?”) Hell, even Chipper Jones isn’t likely that crude. If you don’t remember, plenty of very deep-pocketed gay Atlantans sure will.
UNO
February 27th, 2010
8:12 pm
I’d be surprised to see a Christian choose to run as a Republican ever again in the state of GA. Look at the company one would have to keep..
Martha
February 27th, 2010
8:27 pm
He doesn’t live in the 7th! He lives in Alpharetta. That’s the 6th Congressional District. Love to see him primary Tom Price!
Captain America
February 27th, 2010
8:30 pm
wifebeatin’ fool – If he does run, he’d just say he asked for and was given forgiveness from his terrified wife, his friends at church, Braves fans, and, of course, Jesus.
EP
February 27th, 2010
8:33 pm
Enter your comments here
Snellvillian
February 27th, 2010
8:33 pm
Maybe if Balfour runs for Congress he’ll actually show his face in Snellville (his current district)! We would love to meet him!
BIOMASS
February 27th, 2010
8:33 pm
That Bradley article is pretty weak. If that’s all you got against Smoltz, come on.
I support his anti-gay marriage stance.
He hit his wife? What a cowardly thing to type. Proof? Like a police report?
I still don’t want a religious zealot in elected office.
Jim Bunning is great!
EP
February 27th, 2010
8:36 pm
Just remember that Pres. Obama has LOWERED you taxes while in office. I love what Smoltz did for the Braves, but needs to start politics on a local level, if that is what he really wants to do.
Sportsfan
February 27th, 2010
8:38 pm
Hey let’s have Smoltz run against Jeff Hullinger. The Hullman, I read in the AJC is unemployed.
Bring My Smelling Salts. Now!
February 27th, 2010
8:42 pm
Baby Say said it best.
Ga Values/Bo Chambliss lobbyist/ Tom GA Hunter
February 27th, 2010
8:47 pm
It really ticks off the libs. So, I like it. Yeah.
hoopdog
February 27th, 2010
8:49 pm
would be a typical GOP move – get a man who espouses family values in public but doesn’t come close to them in private. smoltz has the intellectual capacity of a catcher’s mitt, so there is no way the party will let hum run.
Mike
February 27th, 2010
8:50 pm
Yes, that’s just what the state of Ga. needs. Another two faced, bible thumping, homophobic, republican pig in state politics. The bubbas and good ol’ boys in the state house really know how to pick ‘em. Of course if they’re going for the dumb jock, trailer trash, redneck contingent then I guess Smoltz is as good as any other.
Russ
February 27th, 2010
8:51 pm
Snellvillian – If you come out to public meetings. you might see Senator Balfour’s face. I have appreciated Senator Balfour’s representation. As for experienced candidates, I would definitely say Sen. Balfour has plenty of legislative expertise. He understands the consitituents in this district.
I like John Smoltz personally, and its rather sad to see some are threatened by someone who unashamedly express their faith in Jesus. If you chose not to be a believer so be it. But you don’t have to call names just because you fear, yes “fear”, those who chose to believe this world didn’t just happen. I digress. John has a name, but I’m not into candidates of convenience. I agree with the poster who suggested that John try his hand at local politics, maybe something at the state level before jumping in the shark tank in Washington.
TPM
February 27th, 2010
8:54 pm
It is funny how much can change in a year. There are more people in the GOP leadership calling on him to run for congress than there are MLB teams calling him to pitch. I guess Frank Wren does know what he is talking about.
Red
February 27th, 2010
8:55 pm
Not sure where the talk is coming from on running for Linder’s seat unless Smoltz would like to actually move to the district. Has he even set foot here? Does he even know what counties make up the district? Does he know where Good Hope, GA is? Try running someone who actually knows what makes up the district. I would love to see Shafer run. He’s young, entrenched, can raise money, good politics, good family.
Ward
February 27th, 2010
8:57 pm
After years of having to endure the leftist rantings of my favorite musicians and actors (and the urgings that I should be more ‘tolerant’ of them), forgive me as I really savor the intolerance of leftist baseball fans telling Smoltz to shut up… and he hasn’t even SAID anything yet!
OHREALLY
February 27th, 2010
8:59 pm
so many comments to respond to…
A) I didn’t see anyone say that conservatives have a lock on morality, or a line to God. Though liberals typically are the first to call Christians, or anyone else of faith for that matter (though not Muslims…too p%$$y for that) a moron, or a simpleton, or an idiot.
B) The comments about Obama being the least qualified (or at least the thinnest record), and lowest approval ratings in his first term…yeah…those are FACTS. Just b/c you don’t like them, doesn’t make them any less true
C) Wait till the end of this year, when your ‘Bush’ tax-cuts go away…and try telling yourself that Obama cut your taxes.
On to the point of the article. I don’t want John Smoltz as a Congressman for the same reason I didn’t want Obama as President…no track record to judge, and no experience to draw from. Don Balfour will win this seat.
ObombUBinliden
February 27th, 2010
9:00 pm
Limbaugh Needs to Exercise Yea where doing so great with the non religious zealot prick we have now1
ObombUBinliden
February 27th, 2010
9:05 pm
hey hoopdog what family values does douche bag Clinton have?
ObombUBinliden
February 27th, 2010
9:06 pm
Captain America your wife is afraid of you. She told me so at motel 6,
ObombUBinliden
February 27th, 2010
9:07 pm
Hey Red did you have the same complaints about Hillary? Guess not!
DannyX
February 27th, 2010
9:11 pm
Divorce Is a CHOICE John Smoltz. Although I say “Love the Sinner, hate the Sin,” I pretty much judge you unfit for public office. Jesus Himself spoke directly against the sin of divorce.
Folks let us reflect. Divorce will destroy the institute of marriage. Allowing divorce will eventually lead to gay marriage. Then animal marriage is next.
Vote for the Bible. Vote against sin, and evil Smoltzie. Smoltz is good friends with infamous adulterer Tiger Woods!
God created “Adam and Eve,”….. NOT…. Adam and Eve then Bimbo Cindy.”
Divorce is a CHOICE!
Obomb Us Binl Lande
February 27th, 2010
9:13 pm
DannyX Thank god we have someone perfect like you! Go blow u r self!
BIOMASS
February 27th, 2010
9:22 pm
Good point about Smoltz and Tiger. That could be touchy, politically.
Red
February 27th, 2010
9:25 pm
obombu – yes I did actually. Since I am not living in New York, my opinion on that did not matter. But since I am in the 7th, my point is relevant. Smoltz is not registered in the district and does not live here. And as I said just how much does he know about this district? I’m personally tired of imports, what some call carpetbaggers, being shuffled around by party apparatchiks to run in key areas. It works in Europe but not here.
Obomb Us Binl Lande
February 27th, 2010
9:28 pm
Yea Red I’m sure you did.
Red
February 27th, 2010
9:38 pm
I’m sorry. I guess anonymous people trolling blogs know more about what I’ve said and done than me. My bad. I guess I forget the “don’t feed the troll” rule.
Old Physics Teacher
February 27th, 2010
9:38 pm
Oh great! All we need – another pampered entertainer who will be making major economic decisions based upon what he learned in high school while majoring in PE class and dating the head cheerleader. His credentials are only surpassed by Madona. When, oh when, will we start electing people whose current decisions are based on past successful ones in service to our nation rather than their political beliefs.
Obomb Us Binl Lande
February 27th, 2010
9:39 pm
red u r soooo sad.
Obomb Us Binl Lande
February 27th, 2010
9:40 pm
hey red put your BIG GIRL panties on!
ttibitz
February 27th, 2010
9:57 pm
I love John Smoltz. However, it will be a long time before I vote for another Republican. Maybe after the nation recovers from the devastation of Reaganomics and the NeoCon crimes.
I also agree. No more religious zealots.
SLP
February 27th, 2010
9:57 pm
I would love to watch smoltz, again and again, make an idiot of himself in the spotlight. Run John, run.
maddawg913
February 27th, 2010
10:09 pm
isn’t it funny how all the hate and name calling comes from the so called “party of tolerance”!!
Left and Right Sheep
February 27th, 2010
10:14 pm
All these leftist regressive that are screaming NO to this and that about Smoltz running make me laugh.
Get an independent thought for once in your life.
You throw charges at the right about being sheep and yet you go into a polling place
and pull a lever for every name with a (D) beside it. Now who is the sheep?
JD in Marietta
February 27th, 2010
10:15 pm
EP, which President has lowered our taxes? Its certainly not Prezbo who has spent 3 times as much as Bush did in less than a year! How does that lower taxes when your spending increases by 300% ? Was your comment a joke because it certainly appears that way.
ncsurfer
February 27th, 2010
10:16 pm
we independents laugh at you dems and repubs feuding, knowing that our votes ultimately decide the outcome of elections lol !
JD in Marietta
February 27th, 2010
10:18 pm
NCSurfer, you are obviously a liberal disguising yourself as an independent. Give it up.
The Truth Prevails
February 27th, 2010
10:21 pm
John at least you got a chance of winning being a Republican! The Demorats (the party of NO morals) are going to the house in 2010!
JD in Marietta
February 27th, 2010
10:23 pm
Yes Chiparm, your party consists of independent thinkers capable of making decisions based on emotions, while the rest of us make our minds up based on facts, intuition, and the fact that most of us work for a living. Which branch of the govt do you work for? USPS?
ncsurfer
February 27th, 2010
10:25 pm
on the contrary, i’m a conservative independent and i don’t trust either party until they prove their worthy.
Rufio
February 27th, 2010
10:31 pm
I will actively campaign for anyone,even a Democrat, to defeat State Senator Don Balfour. I have had a horrible issues with the State of Georgia and sent a lengthy letter requesting help and He did absolutely NOTHING and his assistant Beverly Crumbley is a Joke. This man is not worthy to sit in the same chair as John Linder. He did not even have decency of a return email or call. Gee, when a constituent writes a 5 page letter and you don’t respond you have no business being a Congressman. I would rather have Jeff Francouer quit the Mets and come home and be the Congressman than Smoltzie. At least he is a real Gwinnettian.
Alex
February 27th, 2010
10:31 pm
Since he will be replacing the father of the FairTax, I would hope that he would be a supporter. If he supports the FairTax, he has my vote (and yes I actually do live in that Congressional district). Now to all the people who may or may not vote for him because he went and played baseball for another team, please stay home on election day. If you can’t vote for people based on their views about policies, then you don’t need to be voting.
stw
February 27th, 2010
10:35 pm
Interesting to hear what he has to say himself.Never failed at anything..Sounds like a good idea….Question–can he put a fastball in CT’s mouth.. Would seal my vote ..
Cherokee
February 27th, 2010
10:36 pm
JD the biggest tax cut in history went into effect April 1, 2009… yeah, under Obama. If you were working then, you got a tax cut.
PCBobby
February 27th, 2010
10:47 pm
Just what GA needs to move back to 1850: a racist, homophobic moron. BTW, his wife kicked him out of the mansion so is he living somewhere in the 7th? What a dirtbag. Yes, we Independents will decide the winner. Right now it will be the crowded field of right wing-nuts shooting each other in their feet. The Dems have the best shot at this seat for the first time in years.
JD in Marietta
February 27th, 2010
10:51 pm
Cherokee, please give me the name of the tax cut, because I have been working for 25 years and have yet to see a tax cut the last 2 years.I know this is difficult for liberals to comprehend, but if you raise taxes, then suddenly lower them by an insignificant amount, that is NOT a tax cut. Cherokee, I am anxiously awaiting our reply.
BillReef
February 27th, 2010
10:56 pm
I don’t think he is gay enough to be a Republican Congressman. You have to have buggered a few boys or tapped your foot under the stall to even get considered. That’s the reason they loved Mark Sanford so much. At least he was banging some Argentinian chick. They hadn’t had a heterosexual in the party for a while and they wanted to encourage him. I mean look at Newt, you really don’t think that flamer is straight do you?
PCBobby
February 27th, 2010
10:56 pm
@Rufio Balfour cares a lot: about Don Balfour–sorry to hear that the self-absorbed blowhard treated you like that. It’s time to elect sensible folks who are dedicated to GA’s future.
Kyle
February 27th, 2010
11:00 pm
Just another reason to love Smoltzie. If he hates these wanting something for nothing anti-American Democrats as much as me I’ll be the first in line to vote for him. Send them to Canada so they can get their dream Health Care. Hug a tree while you are waiting in line for it stupid.
SteveO
February 27th, 2010
11:01 pm
PCBobby, who would your choice be for a congressman to replace John Linder? Vernon Jones if he moved to Linders district? I would love to hear some qualified candidates….
JD in Marietta
February 27th, 2010
11:06 pm
Cherokee, I’m waiting to hear about the biggest tax cut in 2009…. Does it really exist Was I left out? I never heard a word about the biggest tax cut in history in any of the papers….. I could have saved thousands if only I knew…..
mistermak
February 27th, 2010
11:07 pm
EP— what the HECK are you smokin? Lowered our taxes? Yea that is how he will pay for all these SPENDING BILLS he comes up with!! You really need to pay attention to something other than MSNBC!!!
Vanessa
February 27th, 2010
11:10 pm
Great piece on Linder and his career – http://www.dailykos.com/story/2010/2/27/841404/-John-Linder-GA-7-retires
hop
February 27th, 2010
11:11 pm
it funny how the writer of the article and the dems think the have a real shot at this race.
the district is made up with all of gwinnett county and walton county that continues to vote for the gop.
you add the fact that the dems are in trouble nationally because of the meltdown in washington ,the losses in virginia, new jersey and of all seats ted kennedy going the other way, this is going to be a bad year for the dems.
gcs
February 27th, 2010
11:13 pm
Some of you Liberals are so full of hate. It makes me sad.
.
Drago
February 27th, 2010
11:15 pm
No to the Smoltz. People we elect need to be educated. Smoltz is not.
Sarah Palin's Daughter
February 27th, 2010
11:15 pm
So Kyle, why is it that you accuse the Democrats of wanting something for nothing? It was a Republican president with a Republican congress who authorized the biggest giveaway in our nation’s history. Since you obviously went to public school and don’t know any better, the Medicare Prescription Drug bill trumps anything any Democrat ever “gave” away. Bush never did explain how he was going to pay for it, which isn’t necessary because it’s not his problem anymore. People like you are pathetic trailer trash that shouldn’t have the right to vote because you’re too stupid to actually know what’s going on. Idiot!
mistermak
February 27th, 2010
11:19 pm
Hey JD I think Cherokee and EP are drinkin the Kool-aid! Unfortunately, people like them will be voting! Just don’t seem right!
Sarah Palin's Daughter
February 27th, 2010
11:20 pm
Hey Kyle, Did anyone ever teach you how to use a comma? I didn’t think so. And you’re calling other people stupid? By the way, what’s it like being able to tow your house around with your F-350? I’ll bet your truck cost more than your house, didn’t it? Idiot!
No to Smoltz
February 27th, 2010
11:20 pm
Smoltz can’t even handle his own affairs. Please GOP, don’t pick another moron.
No to Smoltz
February 27th, 2010
11:21 pm
Sarah Palin’s Daughter – didn’t you get knocked up in the back of an F350?
Sarah Palin's Daughter
February 27th, 2010
11:23 pm
Hey Kyle, Do you and your mom dip Copenhagen from the same can? Do you share a spit cup? Yeah, I thought so.
Bristol Palin
February 27th, 2010
11:28 pm
Hey Kyle, Have you ever “been with” a girl? I mean, one you’re not related to. No? That’s what I thought.
Jeff
February 27th, 2010
11:29 pm
I don’t want John Smoltz’ right wing ideology messing with my future or my rights. Butt Out !!!
Concerned Voter!
February 27th, 2010
11:32 pm
John, when you did the stuff for Tom Price, a true zealot and not one who works for the good of ALL the people, you lost it for me. Those elected MUST work for ALL of those in their districts. When did this whole thing become that they just work for their party? Wrong. Things must change soon or we need a viable third party to tell both the Ds and the Rs to retire.
Concerned Voter!
February 27th, 2010
11:37 pm
Oops. Just re-reading some of the comments. Kyle, if we did go to Canada, at least our prescriptions would be cheaper! Those great companies have a hold on this country, and our elected officials.
Freedom Line Blog » Representative John Smoltz?
February 27th, 2010
11:42 pm
[...] Linder that he won’t seek reelection is fueling speculation that former Atlanta Braves pitcher John Smoltz might be tossing his baseball cap in the political ring. Besides throwing a wicked fastball, Smoltz is an Evangelical Christian who is a legendary [...]
Cherokee
February 27th, 2010
11:51 pm
JD you and every other working American had a reduction in your withholding rates on April 1. If you were working, you had a tax cut. All told, the total amount of the tax cut was larger than Bush’s initial tax cut.
Facts are stubborn things my friend.
MB SNELLVILLE
February 28th, 2010
12:09 am
John Linder the best ! Trending where Democratic, in the Nation? Not this year. Melvin Everson leave the labor commissioner race and head to Washington!!!
Chuck
February 28th, 2010
12:32 am
Find the knocks about his Christianity interesting. Christians aren’t perfect and I don’t think John ever said he was. To me, he has always handled himself with tremendous class and integrity. As for some of his outbursts on golf courses and in public, again he never claimed to be perfect, just forgiven. Don’t assume that he was the one who caused the marriage to dissolve. With the stress, travel, and loneliness that comes from that “glamerous” lifestyle, my hat is off to anyone who can make their marriage and family work. Hard enough in the so called “real” world. For those who paint him as a dumb, overpaid jock, could there be a hint of jealously in those comments? Most of the people who write such garbage couldn’t begin to play in the minor leagues let alone the big leagues. And yes, there is some luck in getting to the big leagues. The ones who perform at such a high level for a long time work very hard to stay there. His ability as a public speaker and his tremendous community service ( soup kitchens, Christian school he helped pay for ) make him a worthy and viable canidate for public office. Let’s not kid ourselves, image is huge when it comes to politics. The positive attributes that John would bring to the political arena far outweigh any baggage that he might bring. As a Christian myself, I see his faith as a positive in reaching a lost world. Fine if you don’t agree with his views or beliefs, but he is worthy of respect by the way he has conducted his life in this city.
Georgia Tech
February 28th, 2010
12:36 am
This is classic … a pitcher who is now bored with this life now will decide that politics will be his new hobby … yes we should definitely vote for Smoltz, after all he is an expert on government since he has one world series championship to boast about … so looking forward to this.
Pot, here's the Kettle
February 28th, 2010
12:38 am
Some of you Liberals are so full of hate. It makes me sad.
This is cherry-picking a bit, but so is the above comment. Enjoy, person who can’t see the splinter for the beam in his own eye…
If he hates these wanting something for nothing anti-American Democrats as much as me I’ll be the first in line to vote for him. Send them to Canada so they can get their dream Health Care. Hug a tree while you are waiting in line for it stupid.
I don’t think he is gay enough to be a Republican Congressman. You have to have buggered a few boys or tapped your foot under the stall to even get considered. That’s the reason they loved Mark Sanford so much. At least he was banging some Argentinian chick. They hadn’t had a heterosexual in the party for a while and they wanted to encourage him. I mean look at Newt, you really don’t think that flamer is straight do you?
I know this is difficult for liberals to comprehend, but if you raise taxes, then suddenly lower them by an insignificant amount, that is NOT a tax cut.
His faith is an admirable quality absent in liberals. I always wonder how they wake up each day with no faith…
As long as Mr. Smoltz doesn’t vote to give EVEN MORE free, taxpayer-earned money to the worthless FreakNik supporters and V-103 booty shakers who contribute nothing (of value) to society helps put more of them in prison, I wouldn’t have a problem with it.
Ever notice how the metro gay/atheist movement jumps in these blogs at every chance they get to try and throw mud at anyone remotely religious? Disgusting! Then again, I can see what there motive is. Its always to promote there agenda.
go smotlz’ie. Your experience for congress far exceeds what obambi had for our white house. I hope you run and win.
A) I didn’t see anyone say that conservatives have a lock on morality, or a line to God. Though liberals typically are the first to call Christians, or anyone else of faith for that matter (though not Muslims…too p%$$y for that) a moron, or a simpleton, or an idiot.
hey hoopdog what family values does douche bag Clinton have?
DannyX Thank god we have someone perfect like you! Go blow u r self!
Stewart
February 28th, 2010
12:56 am
As a lifelong Atlantan and loyal Braves fan, I like John Smoltz. Given the challenges our country currently faces, I don’t like the idea of US Rep. John Smoltz (R).
vuduchld
February 28th, 2010
1:08 am
The TruthHurts
I guess the truth does hurt for an idiot like you because when it comes to commmon sense, a clown like you has none. The truth is that jerks like you have put Jawja in the sorry position it’s currently resides, but lemmings like yourself and other dimwits in your state will continue to elect morons in office, then wonder what happened when your state is flushed down the toilet.
Several weeks ago the President you claim has “no experience” madeHouse Republicans look like complete fools on their own turf, reducing Tom Price to a complete nincompoop. This past week he again made GOP senators look like completely clueless slugs(which they are).
Franky, I’ll take this no experience President anyday to the monkeys you and other right wing trolls prop up like scarecrows.
mistermak
February 28th, 2010
1:33 am
Mr Vudu, all he showed was his own arrogance. But since you are so in love with him (for whatever reason) you cant see anything wrong with the man. His arrogance will be his down fall. Or the fact that he never really has stopped running for office. What ever the case I can’t wait until the end of this year when we take back the house and commons sense begins to come back. And then in 12 when socialism starts to die!
mistermak
February 28th, 2010
1:35 am
by then he will have emptied all of our pockets and yes that includes you too Mr.Vudu! But I am sure as long as he is handing you some chump change to just get by on you and all of your chronies will be happy with him. with a new real president you just might have to get a job and buy your own health insurance. Sorry!!
10th District Voter...
February 28th, 2010
1:36 am
David Shafer should be the next 10th district Congressman. He is the most qualified of the likely candidates and he’s paid his dues working in the background for the Republican Party over the last 20 years. Balfour has a little bit of seniority over Shafer, so it will be interesting to see if he uses it to keep Shafer from running. Given Shafer’s loyalty to the party, I’m not sure if he’d run if Balfour really wants the job. Hopefully Balfour will recognize that Shafer is the better candidate for the long run and support Shafer’s candidacy.
Smoltz is an interesting story, but with at least two other more qualified candidates, the Republican Party would be making a big mistake to follow the Democrats down the “image over qualifications” path. Look for Smoltz to be a public supporter of the actual candidate rather than a candidate himself.
PoliticalDog
February 28th, 2010
1:37 am
Chiparm, you Democrats never showed respect for George Bush, remember the movie about his assassination, and all the Hitler mustaches? I would vote for a 1 eyed three legged dog than a Democrat.
DirtyDawg
February 28th, 2010
2:04 am
I suppose that the comment about, at least, for this member of ‘The Party of Tolerance’ saying such hateful things may be accurate. Then again, intolerance toward someone because of race, gender, sexual persuasion, religion and,yes, even political preference, should be condemned. However, intolerance toward ‘jerks’, even ‘Jerks For Jesus’, is to not only be expected, but valued. John Smoltz is a jerk of the first order. Run John Run, it’ll be the end of your sorry ass around these parts. Even the cognitive dissonance Repugs will ‘get it’ when it comes to your hypocritical butt.
Robb Cohen
February 28th, 2010
2:34 am
But can he read a teleprompter?
Robb Cohen
February 28th, 2010
3:11 am
Enter your comments here
Jessica
February 28th, 2010
4:53 am
I am a Christian and a Democrat and YES the two can and does go together. The problem with some Republicans is that you think you have a lock on Jesus Christ. Maybe that’s why when you are in the news for lying, stealing, adultery, etc. you get a public lashing. Your self righteousness is such a turn off.
Should Smlotz run? I don’t know but I do know that if he’s homophobic he better be ready for the fight of his life. Does he understand foreign policy? Budgets? Unemployment? Being a rich athlete does not qualify one for public office. It would be nice to see a fresh young face (God knows Isakson and Chambliss need to go!). But, I want that fresh, young face to be qualified, fair and willing to work with everyone for the benefit of the citizens of the State of Georgia – not just the ones that look, act, and believe as you believe. Can we get SERVANTS….not politicians.
No to Smoltz
February 28th, 2010
6:21 am
Ask Mark Bradley of the AJC if he should run – he’ll give you an earful! John is a pompous, spoiled, crybaby. He is a faux christian.
As Mark has mentioned before, Smoltz can’t stand to have anything negative written about him. Getting involved in politics beyond fund raising would be a suicide mission.
Steve Klein
February 28th, 2010
6:42 am
Don’t do it Smoltz. It would be a sad ending to a great career. Look at Jim Bunning — politics turned one of the greatest pitchers ever into one of the biggest jerks ever.
Comment Awaiting Moderation
February 28th, 2010
7:13 am
Another out of touch gillionaire, I have heard from friends close to Him that he has some violent angers issues and is not the reflection of Jesus Christ he trys to come across in his public image. But then again ET and American Idol run this country anyhow. The GOP is a joke, first Palin and now Smoltz. God does need to step in and help the Grand Oil Party. I am a Conservative and this makes me sick. By the way to all us conservative, we have no morals either – we are better at hidding our sins. Remember IN 1994 WE HAD THE WHITE HOUSE, THE HOUSE, AND THE SENATE AND DID NOTHING. YOU KNOW WHY? ALL OUR GUYS WERE IN BED WITH SOMEONE LOBBYIST bdsm CHICK. WAKE UP GOP!!!
Fair and Balanced
February 28th, 2010
7:31 am
Norris says: “Smoltz would be great. He is a moral man with integrity”
Right. And he is a great Family Man, too.
John
February 28th, 2010
7:49 am
As long as he can keep the Fair Tax flame burning…he would be a good choice. I fear that with the departure of Congressman Linder, the Fair Tax will die. Sad that the GOP blew their chances to try and pass it when they had the majority. Now with the COMMUNISTS in charge, it will be more difficult.
Bitter EX democrackkk
February 28th, 2010
7:50 am
But is Smoltz a Constitionalist? Has he STUDIED the Constitution? There are study courses available for laymen …ALL prospective candidates for office should be required to learn it. Many in office today have NEVER even read or understood our founding document. Think how much better off America would be today if they had!
UNaffiliated Voter
February 28th, 2010
7:57 am
…Remember, the MLK family was Republican before Jr got called by JFK to switch to the ‘crackkks…its one of the biggest historical mistakes in America.
MikeSilver
February 28th, 2010
8:04 am
Balfour is anti-gun and undeserving of Conservative support.
He was the main Repuiblican opposition to HB89 and worked to undermine it every step of the way. HB89 which passed in 2008, restored the rights of background checked licensees to carry their firearms in more locations such as restrurants that serve alcohol and on public transit.
Balfour is a gun banner! Watch out Georgia.
Keep doing this GOP
February 28th, 2010
8:05 am
I dont have anything against Smoltzie, i respect his politics (although i disagree with him), and his religion. And what happened with his wife is business between him and his wife, but i think he would be a lot happier if he was coming out of the bullpen, wearing a Braves uniform, to the sounds of cheers and “Thunderstruck”, than to the sounds of Congress.
Churchill
February 28th, 2010
8:07 am
Does John Smoltz have a colege degree or is he like Handel?
Kepah17
February 28th, 2010
8:09 am
Just what we need a spoiled celeb. who has more money then they know what do do with, who hasn’t lived in the avaerage citizens world in many, many years if ever making policy the effects us. He should just go play with his baseballs.
DoninAcworth
February 28th, 2010
8:12 am
Wow! The hate folks (read Dems) were just waiting for someone to surface so they could do their smart hate blogs and such. All of you could use some confession time and please seek what you preach… can’t you all just get along! And if you are “oh so smart” run yourself.
NXS
February 28th, 2010
8:25 am
Ahhh yes, just what Georgia needs…. another rich, evangelical Republican deciding our fate. How about this for a platform- more tax cuts for the top 1%, medical savings (tax shelter) accounts to solve the health care crisis, a constitutional amendment to teach Christianity in public schools, and one more unfunded war. That ought to get it!
Road Scholar
February 28th, 2010
8:33 am
Jessica @4:53 : Well said! Anyone has the right of free speech and running for office.
For you Fair taxers: What would have happened if the Fair Tax was in effect before this recession?
midtownguy
February 28th, 2010
8:35 am
During the same sex marriage debate he labeled gay citizens as “degenerates” and characterized their relationships as abnormal (while not being able to hold his own marriage together). He will get the full out assault from the Human Rights Campaign, Georgia Equality and the Log Cabin Republicans along with all the money they can raise, which is considerable.
Jack in Alpharetta
February 28th, 2010
8:36 am
I used to see Smoltz out and about when he lived over in Duluth in St. Ives. Do any of you remember when he sued to stop someone from building a house next to his that would have shaded his pool? He does not play well with others. He’s basically been a horse’s a*s*s when I’ve seen him in public. You couldn’t pay me enough to support him, much less vote for him. Surely the Republicans can find someone far better than this scumbag.
Joe
February 28th, 2010
8:40 am
Smoltz would make a good candidate. He is very articulate and seems to know the issues which is obviously why he is a Republican. Either way the dems have a snowballs chance in hell of picking up this seat or any other close one for that matter. The dem party has become toxic since the far left is now fully in control….
Rick
February 28th, 2010
8:44 am
Is this the same John Smoltz that left Atlanta and the Braves for more money? I thought so. Count me out as a supporter. $$$$$$$$$$$
No to Smoltz
February 28th, 2010
8:46 am
“Smoltz would make a good candidate. He is very articulate and seems to know the issues”
That’s what they said about Obammy. Seeming to know the issues and actually knowing the issues are two different things.
I am a conservative, but I would never support him. He is on par with Palin. When is the GOP going to straighten up and get some real candidates? The “eye candy with no substance” candidate is not needed.
Ticked Off
February 28th, 2010
8:47 am
A ballplayer does not a politician make…..or something like that. I agree that we need less idiot lawyers running our state and country and more people that know business……does John have any business experience…..any experience other that playing pitch and catch……does he stand with the Republican Party on issues? There’s a lot of unanswered questions……have a press conference, John and announce your intentions and tell us why you can win and succeed.
No to Smoltz
February 28th, 2010
8:49 am
When he reads this article, he’ll most likely call up Jim Galloway and tell him to erase all of the comments OR ELSE!
Sam
February 28th, 2010
8:54 am
I always enjoy reading the blogs, but these is the worst comments I have ever seen as a group. One guy said obama lowered taxes can you imagine. If you have a comment about the article, fine. Otherwise read and keep your fingers off of the keyboard. And to Road Scholar, i’m not sure where we would be if the fair tax were in place today, but one thing seems clear to me……Could we be in any worst shape with that idiot obama throwing money around like oak leaves, buying votes and giving acorn etc. billions of dollars he doesn’t have…Just look at that moron and never never vote for anyone that will ever support anything that ding dong wants …….Oh that felt good….
dave
February 28th, 2010
8:56 am
It requires way to ‘cool a head’ for him . . . something which he has demonstrated not to consistently have at his immediate disposal
Dick
February 28th, 2010
8:57 am
How can a person who made 8 million plus a year be able to understand what a fmaily making less than $30,000.00 a year is going thru. sorry, like the dude but we don’t need his likes in office.
aps
February 28th, 2010
9:04 am
That’s all we need. Another self important egomaniac in Congress.
Sic semper tyrannis
February 28th, 2010
9:23 am
YAWN. Throw another ‘brand name” into the political mix so the masses can squabble and worship the cult of personality. Meanwhile the power brokers who own the politicians whisper promises of power to woo candidates into the corrupt ‘quid pro quo’ game in DC. D or R, good or bad, right or left, these guys are set for life. Do you think they possibly care to do anything for YOU that makes your life easier? You folks happy with this? Are you set for life? Your kids all going to Harvard and you’ve got your home paid off, a great job and guaranteed health care? Or are things getting worse and scarier for you? If you want to get some control over your destiny we need to band together. The top one percent who own this country can get an infinite supply of ’stars’ to run for office – look past that to the SYSTEM and see how it’s designed to shut out the hard working middle class. If we’re too busy arguing about the noose they’ll hang us with it won’t matter WHO we elect, ever. The entire corrupt system will continue, our dollars will go to international bankers, hedge funds and manufacturers who shift our jobs overseas and your kids will inherit a shell of what this country used to be. Is that what you want for your kids and country? I’m sure we ALL love this country and would like to see it stand for the promise of freedom and equality we were founded on. Most of us don’t think those freedoms include 10% of the populace owning 85% of the wealth, and the gap rising annually: http://sociology.ucsc.edu/whorulesamerica/power/wealth.html.
The two-party system is corrupt and rigged to ensure the people who get elected will “play ball” with the guys who own the multi-national firms: GE, Rockwell, Koch Industries, the Walton family, SoCo, Aetna and Goldman Sachs have more say on whether Smoltz or anyone running at the national level will be backed than 1,000,000 of us slobs. We need MORE political parties, founded on populist principals and RUN by the MIDDLE CLASS, to dilute the influence of corporate (persons) who are saturating the airwaves with their agendas and playing us against each other so they can maximize their reward and minimize their risk, all subsidized by us via the tax codes. So, if your equity is under water, your 401k is depleted and the stocks/bonds you buy have only enriched your broker, ask yourself WHY? Ask where your money has gone, then read about the bonus paid Jamie Dimon and Lloyd Blankfein and AIG CEOs and ask yourself if ANY of these politicians will side with you over them.? Smoltz, Schmoltz. You can run Ted Bundy, Bozo or Sparky the Wonder Chimp for all it matters if we don’t change the pay to play SYSTEM.
BigGAdawg
February 28th, 2010
9:31 am
Lots of Yapping going on here–most of which is worth squat. The only opinions that count are John’s and those who live in the district. Everybody else needs to shut up.
DirtyDawg
February 28th, 2010
9:36 am
Hey Sam…well said…you managed to disparage the President without the ‘overt’ use of racially-edged comments. Of course pretty much all the Republican Talking Points have long-since been purged of the more obvious ones, and, by the way, you managed to hit most of ‘em. One thing I do know is that, for Seniors at least, if the (faux) Fair Tax had been in place (with it’s, what, 30 or 40 percent mark-up?) we’d all have run out of money for stuff way before now…and as for the ’shape we’re in’ under Obama, every analysis, other than the ones from Fauxnews and/or other arms of the Republican Party, has shown that the process has worked, at least to prevent a complete financial meltdown and both GDP and job losses have turned around in the months since the ‘recovery’ act has had a chance to work.
Oh yes, you ended yourself with the comment ‘Oh that felt good’…basically what the Jonestown faithful said just as they drank the kool-aid, and believe me you wing-nuts have already had a full dose.
No to Smoltz
February 28th, 2010
9:41 am
DirtyDawg, you obviously don’t know how the Fair Tax would work. Read up on it and become enlightened.
Remember what slogan your boy ran under? CHANGE.
I thought Demos wanted CHANGE you can believe in? Guess I was wrong.
midtownguy
February 28th, 2010
9:44 am
“The dem party has become toxic since the far left is now fully in control….”
to that I would add:
The repub party has become toxic sine the far right is now fully in control….
Can’t we get a candidate, from either party, that is reasonable and moderate? This seems the ideal district for that.
Oh Please
February 28th, 2010
9:48 am
Why do Christians find it necessary to ram their belief down our throats and insist that we all behave like they say we should? And don’t tell me it’s not true…
ATLFan
February 28th, 2010
9:48 am
LibertyMediocrity (7:17pm), yeah, Smoltzie needs a lot more experience in domestic policy and foreign policy ………….like our brilliant president, who served all of 170 days in the US Senate?
No to Smoltz
February 28th, 2010
9:54 am
@ Oh Please – very true, but it’s not just Christians.
ATLFan
February 28th, 2010
9:57 am
Oh Please, what world are you living in? If you want to see religion “rammed down your throats”, move to an Islamic-ruled country, where you get your throat slit open if you don’t bow to Mecca or women are stoned to death for getting raped. Now tell me again how mean Christians are??
People have missed the message
February 28th, 2010
10:02 am
@ Skin and Bones…
Agreed. Paul and other crazy Christians throughout history screwed up Jesus’ message so bad that Christianity today is a far cry from what Jesus taught about. He never talked about being a savior or accepting him. Never once said any of that. Paul made it up to convert followers.
There’s no such thing as Hell. Another thing made up by Church for coersion.
http://30ce.com/jesusonhell.htm
Road Scholar
February 28th, 2010
10:20 am
Sam @ 8:54 : Thank for responding about the fair tax. Taxpayer and business spending is down significantly; the fair tax revenues are based on spending. If spending goes up so does tax revenues; if spending goes down, tax revenues go down. People aren’t spending even though most are earning monies. Under the income tax, revenues are based on earnings (minus deductions). Government income would be even lower.
Spending on the otherhand has gone up. Whether or not you agree/disagree with the bailout, stimulus, etc., we do not have a parallel universe or accurate financial models (I allude to the estimated peak in unemployment @ 9%…it was an estimate) to examine whether these were the right things to do. But they were done after much thought, examination, and debate.
Dirty Dawg and No to Smoltz: Comments? (Dirty dawg, good win over FLA yesterdy; I’m impressed with your coach and team, even though…)
Thogwummpy
February 28th, 2010
10:34 am
Well, I’d rather have Smoltz than any Marxist…er…Democrat…eh—same thing.
Candor
February 28th, 2010
10:36 am
so this all boils down to who can afford the race, not who is most qualified. Our political system was fine at the beginning, until people figured out how to game it. Smoltz is know as a good ball player (which has had absolutly no impact on my life) with a terrible temper who just happens to be self rightous. Yep, it’s all about him.
curious
February 28th, 2010
10:45 am
Congress is full of gays, lawyers and career politicians. What’s wrong with adding an athlete. Let the voters decide. Just remember John: If elected, there’s no disabled list if the going gets rough. Your every word will become a target for every home-run-hitting talk show host. And don’t forget Zell Miller’s legacy: “What are we supposed to do? Throw spitballs?”
steve
February 28th, 2010
10:51 am
Fron Sarah Palin to John Smoltz, why are Repugnicans always dumbing down public policy?
Bobby
February 28th, 2010
10:53 am
All we need. One more religious bigot NO sayer to working Americans while supporting corporate profits. This country is going down the tubes faster than I thought.
The Dogfighter Returns
February 28th, 2010
10:54 am
are you folks still wasting your time lining up to pull a lever expecting millionaires to look out for the average “joe?”
the day santa claus actually delivers your presents that might happen, until then just realize the joke is on you for expecting someone to look out for your best interest.
vote for a pitcher to go to congress and battle with politicians.
they will eat him up the first week.
The Dogfighter Returns
February 28th, 2010
11:02 am
religion is a fairy tale. he should be automatically disqualified for being so foolish to believe in god.
outspoken1
February 28th, 2010
11:06 am
I LOVE THE IDEA…MAYBE SMOLTZ AND RE-PITCH THE FAIR TAX AND GET MORE ACTION THAN DID LENDER…..
Chop Chop John!
Real Athens
February 28th, 2010
11:08 am
Road to the Right: “Liberals … no faith.”
There is no doubt that if Jesus Christ appeared today the current, de-facto, conservative rabble-rousers on the boob tube and airwaves would label him a liberal — read the New Testament.
Jimmy Carter was (and still is) the most “Christian” modern President of the United States – hands down. Anyone that would deny that fact is a fool.
cjrad
February 28th, 2010
11:20 am
Obomb Us–you are so funny…you crack me up!!!
I just wonder how the Muslim community would fare if these guys like Mike, BIOMASS & ttibitz
called anyone of THEM redneck, religious zealots, pig, trailer-trash, etc., etc.
Double-standard by the leftist, Christian-haters as usual.
jim
February 28th, 2010
11:23 am
FIRST
Finnius J.
February 28th, 2010
11:30 am
He’d be a perfect fit! Rude, arrogant, rich, lying POS just like all the politicians in Georgia and DC.
cjrad
February 28th, 2010
11:37 am
“Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:28;
Matthew 5:22 “But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court; and whoever says to his brother, ‘You good-for-nothing,’ shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell.
Matthew 18:9
“And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell.”
cjrad
February 28th, 2010
11:39 am
Real Athens—Jesus would hate his own people, the Jews, the ones He loved and came to save?
I’d think again about Jimmy Carter: he is a Jew-hater.
cjrad
February 28th, 2010
11:41 am
the dogfighter–CEOs–”millionaires”, as you call them, provide JOBS for people like you and me (I assume you are working, or plan on doing it one day…
News Update – Feb 28 2010
February 28th, 2010
11:42 am
[...] MLB Pitcher John Smoltz is considered to be a front runner for the retiring Representative John Lind… [...]
B. Thenet
February 28th, 2010
11:42 am
I cannot wait to see him explain why unions are good for millionaire athletes, but not good for blue collar workers. Why a $1 million/year minimum wage for baseball players is too small, while the current minimum wage for US Workers is too high and hurts small businesses.
Having a multi-millionaire union member who will likely advocate a fair tax is about as perfect a picture of today’s Tea Party GOP as you can get. Let the hilarity ensue.
D-macc
February 28th, 2010
11:47 am
It will be the first time I won’t vote for Smoltz.
Vampirella
February 28th, 2010
11:47 am
I live in the district. Hope I get a chance to vote against him. He’s patently unqualified.
snapshot
February 28th, 2010
11:55 am
Sounds great!!!! He has got my vote.
Real Athens
February 28th, 2010
12:13 pm
cjrad:
There is a difference between hating a “people” and disagreeing with a political philosophy or a governments treatment of citizens within a country — or can you not distinguish?
What am I writing? Of course you can’t. anyone who disagrees with someone on these blogs is branded a >insert, unwarranted, uneducated, untrue, overzealous insult here<.
"Jew-hater": How can you utter such an oversimplified, obviously regurgitated sound bite and expect to be taken seriously?
Not A Georgian, But An American
February 28th, 2010
12:32 pm
I can’t believe the hate this little bit of “news” has brought out in people. Liberals think faith is a quality worth bashing and tout their “devotion to reason.” If you are all so reasonable, why are the policies of Democrats always divisive and short-sighted pipe-dreams based on unobtainable ideals, funded by a system of economically unsustainable taxes? Conservatives stand by their faith and claim that the liberal way of life is corrupting American virtue? If you are all so virtuous, why are so many (especially within the Christian Right) homophobic, adulterous pederasts pilfering the donations of the working-class Republicans lining the pockets of your organizations?
Lets face it people, neither side’s platform is the answer. We have been patting ourselves on the backs for over a year because we finally elected a president of African-American decent that everyone failed to realize that all we really did was put an inexperienced junior senator who is as much of a pawn of his party as W was. What we need in this country is campaign reform and a true independent voice, not two parties playing tug of with our future. Reason without faith… faith without reason… both are blind.
Not A Georgian, But An American
February 28th, 2010
12:37 pm
And just on something I picked up on earlier… Unions are bad for everyone. Greed manifested on the part of those on the factory floor is no better than greed manifested on the part of those in the C-suite. The government protects labor now, and all one has to do is look at the UAW to see that unions in the country have gone well past protecting the inalienable rights of the workers the represent.
WTF
February 28th, 2010
12:48 pm
Any idiot who would support the Michigan white supremest Tom Price doesn’t need to be in DC! He needs to move his butt back up North with the rest of his ilk. Just because he is another religious zealot who is intolerant of anyone who does not follow his religion, wears it on his sleeve and has know understanding of working folks in the real world, doesn’t qualify him to be elected, only to be a member of the republican party.
edlarson
February 28th, 2010
2:00 pm
You want someone who is a true conservative and has great name recognition? Then draft Herman Cain! Not only is he a true conservative, he is also a Tea Party member and has hosted several Tea Parties. Now that is a guy that can win.
edlarson
February 28th, 2010
2:02 pm
One more thing, John Linder is the author of the Fair Tax and if he leaves Congress then the Fair Tax loses its greatest champion. Herman Cain is a supporter of the Fair Tax. So Herman Cain is the guy to replace Linder.
No to Smoltz
February 28th, 2010
3:00 pm
Just because Linder is leaving doesn’t in any way mean the Fair Tax is dead. Did anyone happen to hear 750 yesterday during the Mark Arum show? Linder called in. He is still going to be campaigning for the Fair Tax. The Fair Tax is inevitable.
coach3
February 28th, 2010
3:05 pm
Chiparm– I don’t think your buddies, Ed Shultz, Al Franken and Mikie Moore were ever as complimentary of Bush with names such as “Obama the Messiah”. Unless you disown them don’t complain about “Rush, Glen, Sean” etc
BABY SAY
February 28th, 2010
3:24 pm
WUT ALL DA FUSS ABUT??? WON BLOGER HATIN ON SMULTSZ
K
March 1st, 2010
12:42 am
“His faith is an admirable quality absent in liberals. I always wonder how they wake up each day with no faith…”
Probably the same way you wake up each day with your delusions: We open our eyes, get out of bed, shower, and shave.
Seriously, atheism is hardly limited to liberals. Take Karl Rove and Ayn Rand, for example. And you don’t seriously think that Rush Limbaugh believes in anything other than himself, do you?
K
March 1st, 2010
1:47 am
We wake up free of sanctimony as well. It’s a great feeling.
Rosinante
March 1st, 2010
7:21 am
Chiparm, he isn’t POTUS. To be POTUS, you have to be a ‘natural born American’. Says so in the Constitution. The Usurper was born in Kenya, or at least that is what one birth certificate says. The forged birth certificate says Hawaii.
K
March 1st, 2010
4:15 pm
While in Hawaii last week I was granted an exclusive interview with Obama’s obstetrician, whose name remains secret for obvious reasons. The guy is no spring chicken but he’s plenty lucid and remembers Obama’s birth well. In fact, he claims to have said “It’s a boy, and he’s going to be president some day.” This should put any controversy to rest.
my wife has some bigguns
March 14th, 2010
5:07 pm
Why does everything have to be liberal and conservative? If you want some pics of my wife email me at georgiagal1972@hotmail.com