Lessons learned on a hot primary night

   Here's what we gleaned from Primary Night 2006 in Missouri:

1) Katheryn Shields is done.

   She backed Charles Wheeler in the hopes of maintaining some control at the courthouse. Wheeler was crushed Tuesday night.

   And she hoped to parlay a Wheeler victory into a comeback bid for Kansas City mayor. This morning, she looks like toast.

2) Investing in Freedom Inc., the African-American political club, once again looks like investing in fool's gold.

   Wheeler's supporters dumped thousands into Freedom as a firewall against a Mike Sanders victory. Once again, Freedom failed to deliver.

3) Never estimate the power of a well-organized, committed voting bloc. Jolie Justus turned in a powerhouse performance, winning by 3 points in the highly competitive 10th District state Senate race over Jason Klumb.

   Justus' bloc: The Kansas City gay community that turned out in droves for their candidate.

4) Eastern Jack: more conservative and coupled with the stadium vote, a growing power in county politics.

5) Is age an issue? Voters rejected raising judges' retirement age to 70 (it's 65 now) and said no thanks to Wheeler, about to turn 80. What does this mean for Mayor Pro Tem Al Brooks running to succeed Kay Barnes?

Now, add your own.

Posted by Steve Kraske and Dave Helling.

Comments

[George]

Very astute post there boys. Prediction though: Katheryn Shields and Phil Cardarella will force voters to drag them out of power. They won't go willingly. She will still hang on to slim (to none) hopes of mounting a campaign for mayor.

[George]

Very astute post there boys. Prediction though: Katheryn Shields and Phil Cardarella will force voters to drag them out of power. They won't go willingly. She will still hang on to slim (to none) hopes of mounting a campaign for mayor.

[George]

Very astute post there boys. Prediction though: Katheryn Shields and Phil Cardarella will force voters to drag them out of power. They won't go willingly. She will still hang on to slim (to none) hopes of mounting a campaign for mayor.

[joe Miller]

6. If you're a white cadidate and you get an endorsement from Freedom Inc. it means you're a sucker who doesn't have a clue how to relate to blacks.

[George]

Wow. That was a weird glitch. Sorry about the triple post!

[jenniferm]

What I hope it means to the "powers that be" is candidates do matter. Voters do see through some, but not all, the negative and misleading ads, mailers, and recorded phone messages that we the voters have to suffer through each election cycle.

Age isn't an issue to me as long as I see some level of intelligence and competence. Endorsements by organizations and newspapers don't matter and I'm not sure they matter much to the voters anymore either.

[Reggie L. Grossman]

I will second these thoughts. So Freedom spends a ton of money and they won what exactly? An incumbent state Rep race and Tindall in the County Legislature? As someone who lives deep in the Urban Core, I like to go with those who I think will get the job done. And Sanders won, here here.

[David Rouyer]

Helling and Kraske (Tool A & Tool B) just don't get it! Shields is toast for alot of reasons, mainly because she is rightly perceived as a corrupt politician. The result last night had little to do with her supporting Wheeler. Wheeler is viewed as too old and too tired to sustain the rigors of being the county executive. And the analysis of Justus' victory is way too simplistic. There is a strong progressive movement growing in this country. People on the left feel empowered to take a stand against the crazy right-wing propoganda machine that the Republican Party has become, looking out for corporate interests and those of the wealthy. Things are beginning to get bad enough, both politically and economically, for the "regular guy" to take notice. Ms. Justus' victory was not about gays coming out to vote, it was about the people of a progressive district saying "We want someone to stand up for us!"

Justus mobilizing the gay community is only part of the story. She had just as many straight liberals as gay supporters. The secret was a strong ground game coupled with an exciting, energetic candidate. Klumb could never get the grassroots support, and everyone (including myself) overestimated the number of pro-lifers in this district (i.e. Flaherty support).

[JJ]

Well.. Shields lasted three administrations. No matter what you complain about she did accomplish this feat. Everyone complains sooo much. Why didn't anyone vote her out last term, or the term before? I'm not taking sides, but no one knows if Sanders will make the county better or just bring in a new group of idiots. Only time will tell. I just hope someone can print off these blogs and review them four years from now. I'm sure opinion will change.

It seems like every administration comes in and fires a bunch of people, and bring in people who know less that the ones before. That's the only change I see.

[George]

JJ:

Sour grapes or not, you make some good points. The proof is in the pudding. I invite you to watch Mike Sanders and see what he will do. You're not just seeing the end of a political machine this week, you're seeing the beginning of better, more open and accountable government.

[Wes]

My opinion of a serious "under-estimation"? The statement "The Kansas City gay community turned out in droves for their candidate" with the insinuation that's the merit for a Justus victory. You're under estimating a district of informed voters who - more so on a whole than others - have moved on to issues beyond a persons sexual orientation. The 10th is a district in which there is a truer sense of community and knowing your neighbor and reaching out a hand. If you think Justus won in this district because the "gay community turned out in droves" ...you don't know Justus, and you don't know the people of the district.

[Richard]

"Katheryn Shields is done."
From your keyboard to God's ears.

[mfw]

Freedom Inc may not be effective with non-African American candidates, but if you're a habitual ethics violator (Michael Brown), disbarred lawyer (Keith Thomas)or convicted felon (Jemas Tindall, Carol Coe) than Freedom is the organization for you.

[countyshmounty]

First, I'm sure that everyone in the metro genuinely wishes Dr. Charles B. Wheeler a Happy Birthday tomorrow.

But having just heard Wheeler's announcement that he will be celebrating by "having a fundraiser at the museum at the Downtown Airport that bears Wheeler's name," I don't want anyone to be fooled into actually giving money at that fundraiser. Such a fundraiser is being held for one reason, and one reason only, and it doesn't have anything to do with Charlie's birthday!

It has everything to do with Shields and Cardarella being able to get paid off! Or have you forgotten how much money they "loaned" the Wheeler campaign at the last minute ($20,000?), so that ever-popular 3rd party committee (Good Gov'ment) could run those innane ads to tell voters he "never missed a vote that mattered" and "Charlie Wheeler has Integrity."

Don't be fooled. By all means, go to the party. Wish Charlie well. Everyone in the metro does. But don't give the Shields crowd another dime!

If Kathryn Shields decides to run for political office again, there is a LARGE AND HIGHLY MOTIVATED base ready to put in the hours, energy, and effort it would take to be certain she went down in defeat.

George 9:52 The word slim and Katheryn Shields and her appetite for power should never be used in the same sentance. I know there is a large base of voters and campaign workers that would motivate to defeat any attempts by her to win as mayor. Go ahead Katheryn the great flush that fundraising down the toilet and bring your little dog Phil "Toto" too.

The whole race with Mr. Wheeler is very sad. He will not even admit defeat, or Shields will not let him, over very large numbers for Mr. Sanders. If it was a close race, I could see asking for an inquiry, but not with the numbers. Also, many of us straight liberal in the 10th district voted for Ms. Justus. With a history of people like Tim VanZant and Beth Lowe, why do you think only the gays voted for her and supported her. "Johnny come lately, I move to a residence where I think I can win" Klumb should go back to rural Missouri where he came from.

I agree with 10:23. Referring to Jolie's bloc as gay does a grave injustice (please pardon the pun) to her as a candidate and to the constituency of the 10th senate district. Jolie never would have won that race had she relied only on the gay vote - there just aren't enough numbers there. Jolie won that race because she's the right candidate for this district and has a lot to offer. Clearly 33% of this district knows that. Here's hoping the other 67% come around!

[robin]

I agree that the analysis of Jolie's win is too simplistic. It fails to give the residents of the 10th District any credit for recognizing who really knows and cares about their concerns and who is just opportunistic. I know a number of people who voted for Jolie yesterday, and they are all heterosexual. Congrats Jolie on a well run campaign!

Don't mess with the Blunt's. Just ask Mark Wright. His whole campaign was against the governor and he barely beat the convicted felon on the ballot and didn't carry one county in his so-called base.

One thought on the 2006 Primary: Mike Sanders is an absolute political force - winning every ward in Kansas City. Over the last twenty-five years or so, I don't recall ever seeing coalition building on such a grand scale.

[smartie]

I am just glad that KLUMB IS DONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Charlie Wheeler marginalized himself when he agreed to work with Shields, Phildo, and Glorioso. I assume Pat Gray will chalk this up as another loss.

Sometimes people want change, and when they find a candidate that will take their county, state or nation in a new direction, they'll support them.

The endorsements of some groups in Kansas City are having less and less of an impact on voters - the groups who do endorse the wrong candidate need only look in the mirror and ask, "Is this the right person and can they win?"

[SJP]

Strange to see two power brokers of opposite views, SENATOR CALLAHAN & COUNTY EXEC. SHIELDS dragging others down.

Hopefully Jason Klumb will move back to where his mom lives and he can work as a lawyer there and leave KC politics alone. Maybe Flaherty will stay away from politics now that he lost so much money.

[CRD]

"Ms. Justus' victory was not about gays coming out to vote, it was about the people of a progressive district saying "We want someone to stand up for us!""

I concur. Klumb had an excellent resume, but Justus was rooted in the community, and clearly practices what she preaches in her commitment to social justice.

I'll admit, Klumb's anti-gay-marriage vote did factor into my decision. We're talking about legal rights for real live families, and it bothered me that he tried to parse his way out of that illiberal position.

[Joe Medley]

I agree that attributing Justus' victory to the gay community is an over-simplification. I'm heavily involved in grass roots politics in midtown. The people in that community have a very high regard for Ms. Justus.

JJ: "no one knows if Sanders will make the county better or just bring in a new group of idiots."

Look at the Prosecutor's office for your answer. Sanders did a great job managing his office and I actually hate to see him leave, but I know his replacement will be well chosen. He will have a positive impact on this county and I believe we will look back on last night as the turning point in our county's history. I look forward to a better tomorrow.

JJ: "no one knows if Sanders will make the county better or just bring in a new group of idiots."

Look at the Prosecutor's office for your answer. Sanders did a great job managing his office and I actually hate to see him leave, but I know his replacement will be well chosen. He will have a positive impact on this county and I believe we will look back on last night as the turning point in our county's history. I look forward to a better tomorrow starting Jan. 1.

[Stephen Bough]

Congrats to Jolie, she ran a great campaign. Here's hoping that her supporters can be as gracious as she is and, as the winners, reach out to others within thier same party. If you have ever played team sports, you know insulting your team mates don't not result in victory. This was a primary, let's role up our sleeves and work for Claire.

[Karl B.]

Justus made me want to take back the demonized word 'Liberal' from the Neo-cons and wear it proud. A bright blue 'L' on my chest.

She spoke to the frustration of the left with being kicked around for the last eight years, and it paid off for her. The failure of the Democratic party the last decade hasn't been not raising enough money or fighting dirtier. It's that we've allowed the Republicans to make us feel ashamed or embarassed of being liberal. we've floated more and more to the center and have lost sight of the real values of the Democratic Party. If you look at Democratic victories in the state and the nation you will notice a rising tide of proud liberals, strong progressives and a growing failure of moderate Democrats.

Steve Bough is right. Jason Klumb, Ingrid Burnett, Scott Burnett, John Burnett, Jolie Justus, JJ Rizzo, Pat Dobson, etc. all need to congratulate their teammates on a job well done and build a healthy coordinated force to take back the state, the country and be the voice for EVERYONE.

[Molly (not the Molly of the now infamous Brookside Democratic Club)]

Even though the election is over, I continue to be amazed by Klumb's hypocrisy. A few days before the election, I received an email where Klumb whined about Justus bringing up Klumb's prior votes with Predatory Lenders (as well as other issues). Strange, since I think actual votes represent a candidate's position more than promises. Still stranger, Klumb proceeded to get money from pay-day loan operator CashAmerica (www.cashamerica.com) days later as reported in his 8/7/06 campaign finance report.

Also, does anyone have any insight as to why American Century (of Stowers fame) would give money to Flaherty -- who opposed stem cell research?

All that I can say is that Justus camp's big financial backers were largely civil rights organizations (PROMO, KC Pride, Victory Fund) and women's groups (NARAL, Greater KC Political Caucus). At least those entities have positions consistent with those advocated by the candidate. Here's to Justus for a well fought grass roots campaign, and sticking to her guns.

I do not live in the 10th district, but I saw Jolie Justus at a forum for the cty. exec. candidates and the district candidates. She was so genuine and likeable and really gave the impression that she would work hard for her consituents. I would have voted for her. Sometimes it's that simple with voters. Congratulations, Jolie.

[Ian - just when you thought the election was over]

I really thought that today I could reenter the "real" world after supporting campaigns. Then just to drag it out a little longer, I received yet another mailpiece from Klumb.

[Ian - just when you thought the election was over]

I really thought that today I could reenter the "real" world after supporting campaigns. Then just to drag it out a little longer, I received yet another mailpiece from Klumb.

[Ian - just when you thought the election was over]

I really thought that today I could reenter the "real" world after supporting campaigns. Then just to drag it out a little longer, I received yet another mailpiece from Klumb.

[Ian - just when you thought the election was over]

I really thought that today I could reenter the "real" world after supporting campaigns. Then just to drag it out a little longer, I received yet another mailpiece from Klumb.

[Ian]

sorry about that. Not really sure how I got it to post four times!

[still believing]

Someone explain to me why Kathryn Shields would support someone against her husband's neice? Could this all be a ruse? And I agree with mfw - and an adendum - if anyone pays Freedom Inc for their 'support' I hope their supporters will pull out immediately. They are a corrupt organization that has done zilch for the inner city and are now trying to bring that 'do nothing' to the south of KC. Look at the socalled Freedom wards - they are the worst in the city. Yet people still grab the flyer and vote like robots, without thinking, without doing any research on the candidates. So I guess they get what they pay for. That same thing goes for anyone who uses Pat Gray as a consultant! Good grief! How many losses can you have before someone says - uh - LOSER!

Klumb is amazing. As one newspaper columnist described him he is a walking sound bite machine. And after being defeated once again you think he would just go away. But no. He is determined to spew even more sound bites. This time about a mailing that was the cause of his loss. No mention from him about the vicious anti-gay push poll he funded. He spins that his loss is to blame on a last minute mailer. And what is even more incredible is that the KC Star buys it! Come on guys - he was a mean vindictive politician who lied about his past record and got caught on it. Anti-gay sold in Butler but not in Brookside. And now the CCP types who supported him are doing their best to find someone to blame the loss on. Gook luck on that.