Fairbanks borough mayor to speak at Democratic convention
Originally published Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 6:50 p.m.
Updated Tuesday, August 19, 2008 at 7:49 p.m.
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Stumble It!ANCHORAGE — Fairbanks North Star Borough Mayor Jim Whitaker is slated to address the Democratic National Convention in Denver on Tuesday.
Whitaker, a Republican, won the invitation after endorsing Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois.
“My goal is to let Republicans have a clear understanding that their right to vote should not be restricted by any party affiliation,” Whitaker told the News-Miner when he first endorsed Obama.
Whitaker said he decided to come out in support of Obama after comparing him with Sen. John McCain, the Republican presumptive presidential nominee. Whitaker said he was impressed with Obama’s intellect and willingness to work across party lines to broker legislative compromises.
“When we look at both our economic and foreign policies, it’s clear that a lot of mistakes have been made and would continue if McCain was elected president,” Whitaker said.
Whitaker is scheduled to address convention goers Tuesday between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time. He’s expected to talk about his support for Obama for three to four minutes.
Pete Rouse, Obama’s senior adviser, said he contacted Whitaker after hearing of the endorsement and asked him to speak at the convention.
“He’s a good validator for Obama’s approach of reaching across party lines to solve some of the problems we face as a nation,” Rouse said.
The Web site Daily Kos mentioned Whitaker’s invitation Monday.
Reaction from his fellow Republicans has not been particularly positive, Whitaker said.
“But I’ve also heard from several independents, which I think most Alaskans are, that have been supportive,” he said.
It’s just those independents that the Obama campaign is hoping to attract in November.
Whitaker said he isn’t trying to sway anyone to vote a particular way in the presidential race, but would like people to give some consideration to the candidates’ different positions on the issues before marking their ballot.
“I don’t do this in order to be presumptive that others will be influenced by my decision,” he said. “I just hope others will be thoughtful and come to their own conclusions about who is the best candidate.”
Rouse said Alaska is an important battleground state this year, not just for its three electoral votes, but also because of the symbolism of winning a state that hasn’t voted for a Democrat in a presidential election since picking Lyndon Johnson over Barry Goldwater in 1964.
“The three votes are important, but it also makes an important statement about the kind of broad bipartisan support Obama has,” Rouse said.
Rouse said he expects Obama to do as well in the general election in Alaska as he did in the February caucuses, where Obama received 75 percent of the 8,880 votes cast for the two Democratic candidates. Hillary Clinton received 2,194 votes.
“People are energized,” Rouse said. “They support Barack’s message that we have to try a new model (of governing).”
Polls show a tight race between Obama and McCain in Alaska. A Rasmussen poll taken at the end of July shows Obama trailing McCain 42 percent to 48 percent with a roughly 5 percent margin of error.
The Obama camp has hit the ground running, hiring some 70 campaign workers in Alaska, to close the gap with McCain. But even a near win will benefit other Alaska Democrats on the ballot, Rouse said.
“If we can keep it to a single-digit margin we can help out (Mark) Begich and (Ethan) Berkowitz in the congressional races,” he said.
Rouse was chief of staff to Lt. Gov. Terry Miller from 1979 to 1982. He still has family in Alaska.
Contact Washington correspondent R.A. Dillon at dcnews@newsminer.com.
Community Discussion
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Some people will do anything to prompt themselves. Wonder what they promised him when his term of mayor is over, in exchange for this publicity stunt. Whitaker is nothing but a self serving con artist. Time has come for the State to investigate him and the Port Authority, what happen to the borough's money?
Do us a favor and stay there after your speach.
What do they say about rats abandoning a sinking ship. This mayor has turn this borough into a property tax payers disaster. Exactly what has he done for this community, other than promote his own agenda. Where are the 5,000 jobs he promised this year. How much money has he given to friends via jobs. At least he let people continue to dumpster dive, after all this is where he probably though the people of this borough belonged. He has turned this community into a national joke.
So are we as tax payers footing his bill?
Dont see Jim (and I would bet that Jinx will go with him) flying coach, staying in a holiday inn or riding mass transit.
What a worm,get a life Mayor,You can't do anything, but spend taxpayers dollars!! Don't come back!!
Absolutely hilarious!
I am truly disgusted.
He will be moving South soon. Florida or Arizona will be my guess. I do hope he does not waste our time by running again.
Pat
I categorically disagree with the mayor on every point about Obama but challenge him to show factual proof of any tangible accomplishment that this unprepared wanta-be has that prepares him to be president. The mayor must have some future life planned after his term is up, life in Fairbanks will become intolerable. Its time for this RINO to renounce any Republican affilation any leave Alaska. Please resign elected office effective now.
flabbergasted
I'm glad Mayor Whitaker has the good sense (apparently lacking in most News-Miner readers commenting on this story) to see that we have to find a solution to our energy problems. Obama is not perfect, but a McCain presidency would mean more money down the drain fighting a war that is doing nothing to bring down gas prices, lower U.S. consumption of oil, or make the world a safer place. Pull your heads out, readers, it's time to stop using less - not drilling for more. It's running out, didn't you get the memo?
We are using less Stop Driving did you not notice. Most have cut back and we are continuing to do so. But we surely do not need some unknown that is tied to Muslims leading the United States.
Pat
stopdrivingAK didn't you get the message when Whitaker wanted to build a syngas plant in Fairbanks. He was buddy, buddy with Uncle Ted and the military when he thought he could get money from them. His Port Authority plan is to send gas to the Orient. He milked $300,000 from the assembly to continue to fund the Port Authority who then backed AGIA. At least his former assistant got a job from them. This has nothing to do with energy problems. The man is out for number one and will prostitute himself to whom ever will give him a dime. I wonder if Obama knew the truth he would want to even be associated with this Mayor. Someone on the Obama campaign needs to full him in before Whitaker makes a fool of him as he has the people of this borough.
come on Pat, tied to muslims? That rumor has been so disproven. If you don't want to support Obama that's fine, but don't justify it with false accusations. This rates right up there with "he's not a U.S. citizen." Don't validate the low-lifes who start these rumors by repeating their lies. Based on your previous posts I know you are better than that.
I personally voted for this man? I feel sick at the thought I did that now that he shows his true color, he must be pulling for a job with osama, I mean obama....
Disgusting. My image of Mayor Whitaker has gone downhill.
Look at me every one, look at me.
And this benifits the borough how?
Good for the mayor! That's quite an honor!
Once again the majority of the comments on here are very mean spirited and short sided. Last I remember the position of Borough Mayor is non partisan and as a nonpartisan mayor Mr. Whitaker has made a decision that he feels is best. He is not going to the convention as a partsian, but as an american. Now I know it is hard to believe in the world of Fox News, but no matter what your political colors are we all are Americans first. As a veteran, I fought for each one of you to have your opinions and your right to be involved in the process and the same should be afforded to our Borough Mayor.
With so much negativity in the comments above it shows why as a borough we have so many problems today. If the energy in these comments can be channeled more positively we could solve some of the issues our community currently face like domestic violence, child abuse, rape, alcoholism, drugs and energy issues. Republican, democrat, non partsian or whatever need to remember we are all in this together.
I remember Mayor Whitaker trying to lower property taxes, but every idea he had was shot down because no one wants any new tax to be instituted to make up for the lost revenue. I will admit that I'd rather see less spending, but to blame Mayor Whitaker for the high property taxes is unfair. They were high long before he took office.
twoterm--meanspirited and shortsighted is the norm, but it is entertaining.
Wow.....
Please leave the Republican Party now
Gee whiz; I thought Diane Benson was running for Congress opposing Berkey boy, who by the way, with his arrogant partner, cost the Dems the governorship.
I guess one female in top office is enough for our forward thinking state. I guess I'll write in Ron Paul, anybody with me? Or maybe Hillery?
The Mayor of the Borough declared two emergencies this year and is coordinating the recovery from... Denver? That's RRRiiiiight!, I forgot, the Borough Assembly gave him a blank check to deal with the emergencies. He must be there trying to hire out-of-state workers to come help us all out.
Give me a break! This Mayor is a joke. He is neither leading in a time of crisis nor seeking outside assistance. He is simply telling us to suck the egg on energy, property taxes, and the worst flooding in 40 years, while trying to cut a deal for a coal gassification plant. Hey Mr Mayor, get your self back here and drive some of these roads that our property taxes aren't being used to maintain. Stop wasting our money! Can we recall him? Is it possible? We should, right now, because he is not dealing with the local governance of his own community.
If anyone knows the process please let us know so we can begin the process to get rid of Mayor Whitaker.
The borough mayor won the last election by a landslide. To win by such a wide margin Democrats, Independents, and Republicans had to vote for him in large numbers.
As a non-partisan mayor, our borough mayor should be able to speak with any legitimate organization- that is part of his job.
The current, all Republican, Congressional delegation from Alaska is an outright embarrassment to Alaskans on the national stage. Lisa Murkowski grabbed a piece of valuable real estate for $250,000 less than its value- a back door bribe- and has had a senate ethics complaint field against her. Stevens is dealing with multiple indictments, and Young, arrogant, rude, and under criminal investigation has spent 1.3 million of campaign money on criminal defense attorneys...
Alaska needs some rational representation on the national stage. Thank God we have someone from the Fairbanks North Star Borough- who knows our issues, that can speak up for us in front of the Democratic convention.
"Whitaker said he liked Obama's forward-looking energy plan, which includes development of renewable and alternative energy"
...and ONLY renewable and alternative energy. Obama opposes oil exploration and resource development. (If only everyone would properly inflate their tires, it would save more oil than we can pump out of the ground). Obama supports more than doubling our foreign aid to $170 billion a year (THAT'S 61% MORE THAN THE ANNUAL COST OF THE IRAQ WAR, which Obama claims has ruined our economy). He supports raising the capital gains tax, which will drive investment out of our ailing economy. He supports mandatory carbon caps, which will further drive industry overseas where no such caps exist.
Obama's agenda is nothing new. Socialism has failed everywhere it's been put to use. How can folks have such short memories?
SOCIALISM DOES NOT WORK. It decimates countries and makes them poor. We people get out of bed and bust our butts to better ourselves and brighten our families' futures, not to better the lives of people unwilling to do so for themselves.
I'm new to this area, after 20 years in Anchorage. I hope I get the chance to vote against Whitaker.
Obama has never reached out across the aisle to work with republicans in either his 143 days in the US senate or as Illinois legislator. In fact his leftist agenda has even disturbed some on the left as being way way over the top. If we are to ignore the fact that the borough mayor is a non-partisan position then why is the mayor taking a partisan position and supporting a socialist to lead this country into ruin.
"Angelmansf":
"Supporting a Socialist that (could)lead this country into ruin."
How dare that damn Mayor Whitaker support such a person?
This country is in "EXCELLENT" shape right now.
You tell 'em! (smacks head...says "IN-@#*&-CREDIBLE!).
I mean, who would EVER want change from the sorry road we've been traveling the last few years?
Hell, vote for McCain...and let's keep riding the same, tired wave.
It truly amazes me that people complain profusely about this country's current state of affairs.
But cringe at the mere thought of something different.
Obama isn't perfect.
But he CAN'T be any worse than the hand we've been dealt the past eight years.
And to think some folks actually want four MORE years (just a different person) of the same?
Wow!!! (smacks head again....almost knocks onesself out!).
OldSkoolNook -
Nice to see you bought the 'change' mantra...
hope you didn't pay a lot for it
Hey "Akguy"--
Loved your posts on the "gangsta side shooting, etc.
And yeah...it would be "nice" if they sat Mr. Young outside FPD and let folks wildly shoot at his ass.
Wonder how much of a "Crip" he would be after the fact, and after we pulled him out of the puddle of pee he'd be sitting in.
About Obama....didn't "buy" anything partner.......
Just want something different.....
After what WE (you, me, our fellow American citizens) have and are currently going through...you should welcome a different approach as well.
You can't sit idly by and tell me the direction we've been going in has been the right way.
Well spoken "JoeBtfsplk."
And well taken.......zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
old -
have to agree with you on the above -
but.... (there is always a but, isn't there)
he has only been in the darn senate for a term and has no experience...at all....
I would take a do over at this point - 2 new candidates would be alright with me...
George Washington warned of the dangers of political parties in his final address to congress for THIS EXACT REASON. It seems like you people are "disguted" with the simple fact that the mayor would endorse someone outside of his party, and speak at the democratic national convention when he's a Republican. That's just plain ignorant. The important thing is not staying loyal to your party, it's doing what you think is right.Good for our mayor for standing up for what he believes in and not being afraid to say it.
By the way, this is the state where McCain LOST the primary to everyone INCLUDING RON PAUL. He obviously doesn't have a lot of support here, don't vote for him just because he's a republican.
Oh yeah, and
BARAK OBAMA IS NOT A MUSLIM.
OldSkoolNook-
I love you. I really do.
I am embarrassed, hopefully he won't mention Fairbanks. What a joke.
All I ask is that the people who support Obama do their homework and truly look in to his positions, not just what you hear in the news, and if you still want to vote for him then more power to you. I have and although I know this country needs to take a different road, I feel very strongly that Obama is Not the guy for the job. It has nothing to do with his experience; it is his positions that force common sense to the front of my mind. Look and you will see, though you may agree with him on some you will disagree with more, if you can put the idea of Change aside because not all change is good.
Perhaps we should be looking at this as a good thing. Alaska frequently gets ignored during election times because of we have such a low number of constiguents compared to larger states. This is a good opportunity to have Alaska represented. Some you are so aligned with your own political party that you forget that we are in this as a state!
"Socialism has failed everywhere it's been put to use."
allhaileris - Don't you know, they'll keep trying though, because, in their eyes, its only failed because the right people haven't been put in charge. Most of them think they're the anointed ones and will be able to pull off their social utopia.
stopdrivingAK maybe YOU didn't get the memo - there's plenty of oil out there, its the idiot left that's stopping the oil companies from drilling it and building new refineries.
Good luck getting elected again, dirtbag...
Way to have a pair Mayor!!! While I may not agree with some of the things Obama is doing I do applaud the fact that you are not letting the party sway your vote and you're making it on your own choice.
Good luck at the convention.
Please Denver, keep him.. What a turncoat. Obama is bad news for America and more Americans need to pay more attention to what his agenda his. He's been bad mouthing America for the last six months.
This only confirms my long held opinion that Mayor Whitaker is not to be trusted to do anything but what he believes is in his own best interest - personal, political, or both. While I do not enjoy the prospect of a McCain presidency, he is certain to be better for ALSAKA than Obama. How Mayor Whitaker thinks Obama and a Democrat administration would benefit Alaska I don't know. I am a dyed in the wool Rebublican, but know that there is a big difference between the average Alaskan Democrat and the majority of "Lower 48" Democrats. The biggest difference is that Alaskan Dems put Alaska first while the Lower 48 dems look at Alaska as their exclusive park to lock up to make amends for what they have done to their own states. Mayor Whitaker has thrown his support to an individual and a philosophy that is Anti-Alaska, Anti-Alaskan and Anti-Common Sense. What does this make Mayor Whitaker? A "Lower-48 Jack A--?
Whitaker claims that Obama has worked with both sides to enact legislation, but the evidence contradicts this assertion. When asked this very question at the recent Saddleback forum, Obama cited as his only example, working with McCain. The irony is that this "reach" lasted only 24 hours, when Obama reneged on his commitment and the exercise ended in angry letters.
I would like Whitaker to support his claim.
I can only conclude that Whitaker is a phony and that a deal has been made with the Obama camp.
The Obama campaign must really be suffering if they have to have a small town hick mayor speak at their convention. I guess among all of his experience and colleagues he can only find Mayor Whitaker so come to Denver and fill some down time. A waste of taxpayers money and all in vain. Obama will not get elected and will spend untold amounts of money talking about chnage. When you have no experience and cannot reach across party lines you are a lame duck candidate.
It takes courage for a public figure to openly endorse a candidate of a different political party. Whitaker has courage.
. . . and I'm a democrat . . .
If the shoe were on the other foot, I have to admit, I'd feel outraged. If Whitaker were a democrat and openly endorsed McCain, courage would be the farthest thing from my mind. I'd feel deeply betrayed.
As a democrat, I'm glad Whitaker's endorsing Obama. I disagree with a lot of posters on this blog, disagree with your right wing politics, disagree with your conservative viewpoints. But "one of your own" went to the other side, and I can totally empathize with your outrage and sense of betrayal.
1. I was a delegate to the 1980 demo. convention in N.Y.
Delegates pay there own way, so I doubt the people of Fbk will be picking up the tab.
2. The article was about whitaker speaking in Denver, how did Obama get into the different posts? I guess, there are a lot of Obama haters
in Fbk. these days. Nothing has changes in 40+ years...
Maybe it's the Republican way of making sure Alaskans don't vote for Obama. Who in their right mind would vote for anyone this man endorses?I feel sorry for the Democrats if this is the highest ranking Republican they could find. Can not wait until the late night talk show host get a hold of this one. Can see the jokes about Fairbanks that will make us the laughing stock of America.
Let's see. . . A moment in the spotlight for someone that every real Republican already knew was a RINO - Republican In Name Only. If Obama wins there will be plenty of plumb political appointments out there - especially for a turncoat "Republican." Now that a stake has been driven through the Mayor's little pipeline plan and he isn't sure he and fellow RINO, Mr. Karl, will get their coal to liquids deal completed (they need Ted's support), the poor guy is just looking for a job - anywhere.
Mayor Whitaker is a charming guy (both times I met him). But I agree with so many others who hope he only buys a one way ticket to Denver.
It is political grandstanding plain and simple. A Republican from Alaska is speaking on behalf of a Democrat at their convention. That's the headline. I still want to know who funded the trip, whether the Mayor is on Administrative Leave, and what benefit of the Borough it is to have our Mayor attend. Is this the Mayors example of how we should all be saving energy? While we are told to tighten our belts, call AHFC and get an appointment sometime in January to assess ways to improve our home energy savings, don't burn wood because it's bad for the air quality ratings, and ride a bicycle to work to save gasoline.
My issue with this endorsement is that he is saying that he does not want to influence anyone's vote come November, if I read this article correct. If so, then why come out and endorse anyone, let alone go to the convention and speak? Obviously he thinks he has some pull here, and so does the Obama camp or they would not have gone this route.
Great! The RNC has democratic senators speaking at their convention and all the DNC can come up with is a podunk mayor from Fairbanks for 3-4 minutes? The democrats are really getting desperate.
I find it comical/repugnant that the democrats are handing out movie tickets and trips to the zoo to the homeless while the DNC is going on. What did Johnny Edwards say about two americas? Is this how Obama would eradicate the poor? But allegedly, the democrats are saying they are not trying to hide the homeless but help them because many of them will likely feel "overwhelmed". I too would vote across party lines if not for everything democrats stand for.
The mayor is certainly free to express his personal opinion. But as Mayor this will be advertised and perceived as some type of representation on the Borough.
I love watching republicans eat their own. NO room for free thought or independant action in that party. And if you don't agree with them...it is not a case of everyone is right to their opinion. You are atomatically a moron.
Good job and go mayor!
Hey whitaker if you don't want to stay in Denver how about if you go buddy buddy up with Bill Burrows in Arizona. I am sure you two together there can do some real damage! Don't come back you are an embarrassment to the community Fairbanks!
I am ashamed to see the comments on here.
I mean, I know conservatives are a "us vs everyone else is evil and corrupt" but to harp on a guy for making his own choices in supporting a candidate is beyond low. Are we all supposed to just vote party line, and darn the Republic? When you vote, its for a PERSON, not a party.
And as far as I have seen, Whitaker has tried to do a lot for us. I sincerely doubt any of this trip will be taxpayer funded, unless you count the costs paid for by his own paycheck or possibly the Democrats (who are not accepting taxpayer money this election, btw). Get a grip people, dont hate him for being honest enough to follow his own opinions. We need more politicans like that.
getreal, go to the Bartos hearing it's being held for the next three days, started yesterday. Same building as the Legislative Information Offices. Just might surprise people who the others testifing against him are. Seems they have witness that saw him forge a signature on disclosure documents two years after the fact. Won't be surprise if there isn't criminal charges against him in the future. At least it happened before he ran for Borough Mayor next October.
Go Whitaker!
Go Obama!
Way to go, you both got my votes!
Thanks for the representation guys.
LICK THOSE BLACK BOOTS jimmy.....
You always were lower then a snakes a--!
Whitaker is a joke. This is a joke. Glad he can't run for mayor again. Frank Turney would've been a better option than Jim.
Its a shame to hear about Bartos I always thought he was a very well respected and honest man...
It doesn't make burrows any better though... He is a snake just as much as whitaker! I still think they should buddy up in AZ, anything to keep them both out of Fairbanks.
Everyone wants less spending and lower taxes and no new taxes.....The Mayor cut Borough spending back to previous year and another 10% on top of that. He made these cuts on a percentage basis and not a needs analysis. His cuts HURT many departments and good qualified people. Each and every one of you that come into the Borough DEMANDING anything, just remember that. The funds simply are not there for them to help you in the style you have grown accustomed. He is spineless and has lost a great deal of respect from employees and public alike. These are public figures available on their web site.
The Mayor needs to go as a private citizen, not as the Mayor of the North Star Borough. Who gave him the authority to use his title as Mayor in this manner. Should be criminal charges for misrepresenting your public office this way. Maybe we all should e mail the Obama campaign and let them know he does not speak for Fairbanks' North Star Borough, only himself. Why aren't the assembly members sayiong something about the behavior of the Mayor. Goes as Jin Whitaker, not as the Mayor of this Borough. How much did he sell out this time to misuse his position, a few cocktail parties with the Clintons. Notice 1180IN isn't saying anything.
I've always found Jim to be a man of great character, courage and independence. He backed Joe Thomas over Ralph Seekins in 2006. Why? Because he knew Joe Thomas to be a more ethical person than former Sen. Seekins. Sen. Obama supports the Alaska Gasline, and voted with Sen. Stevens and Sen. Murkowski to authorize federal loan guarantees to move the project forward. You know who didn't support that legislation? Sen. John McCain.
If the cost of energy and the gas pipeline are the two most important issues facing Fairbanks, then Sen. Obama actually has a record of standing up for Alaskans. Sen. McCain has consistently opposed every major Alaska project and initiative. Sen. Obama is the clear choice for Alaska.
Mayor Whitaker: thanks for taking a stand. Your leadership is truly appreciated by this Alaskan.
Big Dan - North pole 79
So you believe we are a bunch of hicks with a hick mayor. obviously you came up at with pipeline parade, or some time thereafter. I love my hick town. If you think it is so hick, don't let the door hit you in the backside etc. But then again stay a while. We need people like you folks to keep us informed of the right way they do things in the big city. Anyone remember "we don't give damn how they do it on the outside" Well folks those who came to get away from it all, brought it all with them. Box stores, gang wars, etc.
So Please, I'm for the old hicksville, if that is what it takes.
I do understand the feeling of anger when a prominent party member sort of gets out of step with a party line, but then I don't belong to a party - I'm a dem. But will I vote Obama. I really don't want to, but I also don't want to see more flag draped coffins from Iraq or Iran, or thousand of our kids without legs and arms because we refuse to spend time in conversation. Who was it who said "Better ten years of talk then ten minutes of war".
MacCain scares me to death he even sounds like Bushy if you close your eyes.
Write in Ron Paul? maybe
what a disgrace. BTW I saw a photo, from the Associated Press of Barry Obama's enrolment form for school in indonesia. On this form he is listed as a citizen of Indonesia, not the USA and his religion is listed as Muslim. This is not some crazy blog story, but rather from the LIBERAL AP. Some people will deny anything to support their man.
http://www.worldnetdaily.com/index.php?f...
http://www.daylife.com/photo/01u33pL9Ns0...
If he's doing this because he believes in Obama, that's scary. Given Obama's lack of accomplishments, avowed socialistic positions and association with questionable characters, Whitaker should be embarassed.
If he's doing it to further his post mayoral employment opportunities, he should be ashamed.
We've known all along he's a RINO, so there's really no surprise.
Mayor Whitaker , I am glad to see that you are findley pulling yourself away from that slime filled cesspool of a republican party , just look at them , how many are in jail for corruption . How many are on their way to jail ? That is just for crimes commited in the last few years . Kinda like the drunken drivers , how many are caught , when you look at all the bars and liquor stores in the fairbanks area . How many in government that are guilty are caught taking payoffs ? . I can go back to 1978 when I first heard of Bill Allen and VECO . at prudhoe bay [ at that time , people there called VECO the VD company because of how they were screwing the working people . I wonder how many people in government Bill was paying off back then ? For those that can remember from the middle 70s how prudhoe help , with many working for [Bill Allen's VECO ] was from the lower 48 and other places , was flying right over alaska and fairbanks . In the last half of the 80s [some us locals nearing starving pleaded with the legislators] which were greatly influenced with republicans for some kind of local hire legislation so we might get a job at prudhoe , but it seemed to fall on deft ears , the republicans leaders in the legislation said that there was nothing that could be done . ] If there was an attemp by a legislator to get a local hire bill passed it was killed by the republicans . So we just starved] How many did Bill buy off back then so he could turn a small company into a 400 million dollar company at the expense of local workers ? He imported people in from the lower states at a substandard alaska wage .
Back then I didn't know that republicans could be bought so cheap . [ but maybe back then they cost more .] maybe now they are trying to keep inflation down is the reason they are so cheap now . The oil company's will loved Bill all the way to jail . and maybe Ted and Don too , plus a few more .
This could go on to other things about the republican party , but will save for later .
The old timer
woodman
You totally NAILED the issue. He ran for mayor as a republican. Presumably, he was put into office by a majority vote of republicans. He has no right to use that office to which he was elected to misrepresent the preponderance of his constituency in this official capacity. This is like the CEO of Coca-Cola doing commercial work for Pepsi because he felt it "tasted better".
allhaileris , What hole have you had your head stuck in for the last few years ? Mayor Whitaker was a republican legislator , but the north star borough mayor is a non partisan office . From what I have observed mayor Whitaker [maybe he dosn't realize it] in the last few years has been turning democrat . One good thing about america is when you grow up and see the error of your ways you can change and improve yourself . I think he will like it . I like him a lot better than when he was a legislator .
The Old Timer
Goodness...such anger and hatred spewing forth from so many people.
As citizens of this country, we should look beyond party affiliation and vote for who we, as individuals, feel is the best qualified person for the position.
I don't claim to be a member of one party or the other, simply because I don't care to take part in the mob mentality of "if you don't believe exactly what I believe then you are evil, disgusting, vile, etc..."
I don't want to be a part of that type of thinking. Good for you, Mayor Whitaker, for taking a stand for who you believe is the best person for the job.
And BTW...I am NOT an Obama supporter. I don't believe he is the best man for the job...but I still applaud Mayor Whitaker for being able to think outside 'party lines.'
allhaileris and woodman -
good posts something should be done about it. I agree he should not represent the borough at all. GOV PALIN you need to step in a do something about it!!!
I hate politics........
Looking at this tall string of comments is like examining with a magnifier a long strip of flypaper that was hung up in a slaughterhouse..
..a couple of butterflies and ladybugs, but mostly stink-beetles and botflies.
Mike Gravel has a good idea here...
http://ni4d.us/
I'd rather use the power of the internet to enable our good ideas to rapidly rise to the surface of the septic-tank, like notes in a bottle rising from the bowels of hell.
Imagine being able to vote everyday without having to wait 2 or 4 years.
getreal , Where in the story did it say anything about Mayor Whitaker representing the fairbanks north star borough at the democratic convention ? He will not be there as mayor , but maybe being mayor is why he is there . You know the fringe benefits .
The Old Timer
Should he quit his job just so he can go down as "not tha mayor"? Wear a paper bag over his head? He supports Obama. He is going to the DNC. He is a mayor. How has any of that been illegal or criminal? You all are talking as if its a crime to vote the other way~
When you elect a person to office, you are electing the person. They are there to make decisions and be human, not a talkbox for the party way~
New nickname for Whitaker "Clueless from Seattle" Anyone ever find out what exactly happen down there that made him come up to the "end of the road?"
All life is politics. Fence-sitters pick a side. They're being picked whether you choose to participate or not. There is no such thing as a non-partisan mayor, governor, senator, representative, president, or judge. Politics dictate everything from where a candidate's money comes from, to decisions on how to approach any given problem, to the perceived meaning of a written or oral statement. I assure you that any article you read about Whitaker speaking at the DNC will mention prominently, and UP FRONT that "REPUBLICAN mayor Whitaker of Fairbanks endorses Obama". In the article on which we are all commenting, they get to it in the second paragraph.
As republicans we have a right to expect those that claim to be one of us, and indeed represent us, to remain faithful to the tenets that define our party. No grouping of people agrees completely on everything. We do have a minimum bar, though. Small government footprint...conservative spending...taking responsibility for ourselves, our families, and our lives...all things that Barry H. Obama stands in opposition of. That our mayor stands publicly for him is a major embarrassment to conservatives everywhere. It further proves that the mental disorder of liberalism has infected the Republican party, and that liberals need to be ferreted out and driven from our midst.
Mr. Mayor: You are awesome. I am so glad you have the guts to speak what's on your mind and encourage other people to use their minds, too. We all have an important election coming up. Perhaps you will rouse some of these lazy one's to get out and vote for a change! Thank you for crossing those precious party lines.
Point of order:
Republicans do not have to be conservatives
nor do they have to agree on all party lines to be a member of said party
Akbychoice,
"come on Pat, tied to muslims? That rumor has been so disproven. If you don't want to support Obama that's fine, but don't justify it with false accusations. This rates right up there with "he's not a U.S. citizen." Don't validate the low-lifes who start these rumors by repeating their lies. Based on your previous posts I know you are better than that."
I appreciate your opinion but he has been tied to Muslims and I believe it. I have not seen anything to disprove it that I can take serious.
Also his citizenship is questionable and I am surprised that he can even be considered a candidate with it. Where was he born? I cannot find that information.
Finally I do like my freedoms and not taxes I do not trust this man.
Pat
When you state a rumor you should say where it can be verified , from a reliable source . Not from some blog that propogates with prejudiced and hate .
'Jim Whitaker says he supports the Democrat's plans for energy policy'
Doing nothing but inflate your tires ?
Barks, as far as his birth certificate I find either his questionable defense of one or many other sites that say it is fraudulent.
There are also many sites stating muslim ties and at the least his Pastor that he now denounces are all fairly radical.
Like I have seen in other posts if you support welfare and high taxes support Obama. I would rather vote for Mickey Mouse then this person.
Pat
He was born in Hawaii, and the rumor that he was not born in the U.S. was a republican response to the democrats attempt two months earlier to say John McCain should not be allowed to be president because he was born at a Naval Station in the Panama Canal. The McCain accusation never took hold, but the accusation against Obama was picked up by the Drudge report and took off as a fact. I personally will not be voting for Obama either, but that decision is not based on rumors and false information circulated around the internet. As for the muslim rumor and birth certificate rumors, snopes.com and truthorfiction.com both have the true information listed. Realistically speaking, anyone should realize that if he is not a U.S. citizen he could never have reached this point in the process. He was running against the Clintons for crying out loud.
"I remember Mayor Whitaker trying to lower property taxes, but every idea he had was shot down because no one wants any new tax to be instituted to make up for the lost revenue. I will admit that I'd rather see less spending, but to blame Mayor Whitaker for the high property taxes is unfair. They were high long before he took office.
twoterm--meanspirited and shortsighted is the norm, but it is entertaining."
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LOL! That's a real good idea: lower property tax, and have a sales tax. Don't you know that the assessor also works for the Borough, and that this borough can lower the mil. rate as much as they want, but it won't make a difference since the assessor will increase the property value each year until the end of times?
Ray, if you look at your tax statement you will see that the mil rate has dropped every year for several years, precisely because property values have gone up. The borough and city need a certain amount of money to operate each year. It's called a budget. When they know the amount needed, they total the value of all property and set the mil rate to bring in the amount of money required to meet the budget. If we had a sales tax, the amount brought in by the sales tax would reduce the amount needed from the property tax, thereby lowering the amount collected from each property owner.
How much rent do you pay on property you own? How much rent does the Borough pay on property it owns? If the Borough wants to increase it's revenue base then it needs to increase the amount of land available for sale and sell it. 90% of the property in the borough is unused. The borough is taxing us at 95% of the legal limit on property taxes. That is a limit set by the people. Those voter innitiatives are what drove down the mil rate. To make up for it the borough raises the property value above fair market price.
Earlier when I asked if the Mayor is on Administrative Leave, it is because there is a clause in the borough code requiring that he be on leave when attending political rallies. I have no problem with him supporting either presidential candidate. I have a problem with his lack of leadership as the senior republican official in the borough. I have a problem with his cry wolf approach to problems and then handing off the management of those problems to his staff. I have a problem with the assembly handing him a blank check to solve an 'energy crisis' and next hearing about his plans for a coal gassification project. I was not successful at finding a way to recall the borough mayor. The only way to terminate his term is for the assembly to vote a 2/3rds majority to remove him for a capital offense. We can't fix stupid.
People complaining about property taxes is like a person complaining about the car payments after they went on down and bought a new car and had it financed . Every borough service , with exception of schools , the people voted in by ballot . Most passed by a good margin . Now when it comes time to pay up they whine . Most of the whiners probably don,t even vote . Did you look at the percenage of the ones that could have voted , that did ? If people want to reduce taxes then do away with thoes services that is not really needed . The only thing we have to keep is schools and thats debateable . The state might be forced into running them .
Taxes are not Mayor Whitaker's fault , things cost money . Like the car people need to think before they buy .
The Old Timer
I liked Bill , but I love Hillary . I keep my fingers crossed that some way she could slip in and be attorney general and Bill will get secretary of state . ;.) And the mayor brought all this on .
The Old Timer