The author wonders whether such bravery was more a matter of fear of her swing district’s distaste for a record of tax increases from their representatives. Perhaps Speaker Bass handed out “get out of jail free” cards on the vote because she knew it would not pass without three Republicans, and therefore rookies like Buchanan would not have a “tax increase” vote on her record?

The political he-said she-said carnage continues in the Assembly 15 race as the campaign of Republican Abram Wilson issues a video clip that purports to document
Democrat Joan Buchanan’s support for the Peripheral Canal. During a recent candidate debate, moderated by Lisa Vorderbrueggen, Buchanan denied the charge, but Wilson waved a piece of paper as proof and now has produced this video clip as documentation.

More interesting was Assembly Speaker Democrat Karen Bass, dismissing Democrat Assemblywoman Nicole Parra, from her office to a cubbyhole across the street for not voting for the Democrat stalemate budget. “Now that’s news!” Paul Harvey Jr. would crow. And it’s news that does not bode well for the voters in the Diablo Valley who have to wonder who’s interests Joan Buchanan will represent if she defeats Abram Wilson, the district’s or Karen Bass? Ask them both when Karen Bass headlines a Buchanan fundraiser, September 10.

Among many other things, the website features a biography of Abram and background about the district. It also contains a photo gallery and information regarding volunteering and contributing to the campaign. Finally, the website highlights the numerous awards Abram has received and endorsements throughout Assembly District 15.

Those wishing to join the Abram Wilson for State Assembly campaign may call the headquarters at (925) 867-3474, e-mail at info@wilsonforassembly.com, or sign up on the website. The 15th Assembly District includes Alamo, Brentwood, Danville, Livermore, Oakley, San Ramon, Walnut Creek and a portion of Pleasanton. The district also includes Sacramento Delta communities, Galt and portions of Stockton and Elk Grove.

- Mark DeSaulnier and Laura Canciamilla were the top two Democratic candidates in the spirited race for the 2006 primary in the open 11th Assembly District.

- The largest “independent expenditure” for DeSaulnier was $232,262 made by “Working Families for Mark DeSaulnier.” This committee was primarily funded by labor unions and the League of Conservation Voters. It was only in existence during the 2006 election cycle and only made “independent expenditures” on behalf of DeSaulnier.

- The largest “independent expenditure” on Canciamilla’s behalf was made by JOBS PAC, sponsored by the California Chamber of Commerce, for $288,758.

- DeSaulnier won the Democratic nomination over Canciamilla 51.7% to 39.2%.

Then, join Joan and the entire volunteer team for a Picnic in the Park immediately following the parade at Osage Park, 816 Brookside Drive, Danville, R.S.V.P. 925-806-0560 or andrea@joanbuchanan.com

Chuck Carpenter, just reelected Central Committee member (D-4) of the county Democratic juggernaut named Big Blue, said it another way when he posted recently on another blog, “While the CCRP tries to find a healer the DPCCC will move forward registering reborn Republicans as Democrats,working for Joan to TAKE the 15th. Thank you for picking the San Ramon Mayor Reps. It will take many Republican Dollars to turn him into a candidate. Dollars which will not be in CD10. Remember Jerry is an INCUMBENT and we will be walking phoning and helping him stay in office. After Contra Costa is all Blue there will be time for debates, but not before November.”

Begs some question, don’t it?

- Will Democrats sweep on Obama’s coat tails in November?
- Can Andal win back Pombo’s seat?
- Can Buchanan give Bay Area Republicans the check shot they so badly need?
- Could Republicans win both CD-11 and AD-15?

If one assumes like me that Republicans cannot keep the Assembly seat and win back CD-11, the question then becomes, which is more important to win? The Assembly or Congressional seat?

Political strategists talk about the first reelection campaign for U.S. Congress or Senate as the most critical. For instance, once a Senator wins that second term they can be there for life if they choose. Less sure for Congress, just ask Bill Baker; which illustrates the trend. So, in theory, at least, this is the time for Republicans to take down McNerney before he catches on like a bad cold that won’t go away.

Yet, Democrats freely admit their plans to wipe out Republican representation in the California Legislature. Such an outcome would create a 2/3 majority with which to raise veto-proof taxes. At first blush this seems like the clearer, closer to home, reason for the State Republican Party to pull the trigger on behalf of Abram Wilson. Let the National Party and special interests fend for Andal if they want. We’ve got our own firefight right here at home.