Paschall Comes Out Swinging

Mark Paschall has sent out a letter in the 7th letting people know of his intention to run for Bob Beauprez's seat.  Well, he does still couch his plans by saying he'll run if Bobby B. runs for Governor.   But, with the Beauprez train loaded and pulling out of the station for all parts Colorado, Paschall's letter is his first shot in the elephant race in 7. 

And, it's an interesting shot.

Most interesting is when he gets to his issues (full text of the letter is below), Paschall leads with an illegal immigration message worth of the great Tom-Tom himself.  Granted, cracking down on illegal immigration is an issue that crosses party lines and where people stand gets somewhat blurred.  However, leading with it definitely is a way to bump up one's conservative credentials.  And, when you look at the message points which follow, Paschall is clearly setting himself up as a strong conservative voice.

Yet, what works in 6 most likely won't work in 7.  This may help Paschall get the party faithful riled up against other Rs in a primary, but it's not going to help him if he gets out of the primary and into the general.  The registration numbers in 7 are too close for a strong conservative or liberal voice to win a general election.  Even Bobby B. tempered his more conservative leanings with a folksy moderate image on the campaign trail. 

Regardless, Paschall's seeming entry into this race is going to make things interesting on the Republican side during primary season.

Here's the full text of Paschall's letter.

Many letters like this start with "Dear Fellow Republican, Taxpayer, Coloradan, or American;" something to connect us to each other. Well, I too am seeking a connection.

The purpose of this letter is first to establish the foundation I believe crucial to promote and advance a strong, decent, and free America. And second, to let you know of my consideration to run for Congress, should Rep. Beauprez run for Governor. And I am seeking your input on that decision.

What does it really mean to be an American? I can’t speak for you, but perhaps you will identify with some or all of my answer to that question.

Being an American means, first and foremost, that individual human beings are the acknowledged work of our Creator. That we, not government, are endowed by our Creator with rights and powers subject to the rule of law and our Founding documents which "We the People" create and implement.

Our Constitution allows for individuals to voluntarily yield or loan some of their freedoms and rights to government in order to organize society to maximize "Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness," while minimizing risk, loss, and uncertainty. The very reason that "governments are instituted among men" is to secure the individual’s unalienable rights.

The AmericanRepublic was born of the concept that governments exist only for the express purpose of securing to the individual that which the Creator has already given. And yet, the entire world looked on in wonder at this most amazing "experiment" and governmental structure, known as the United States of America.

The Declaration of Independenceis a vision of a nation that we have yet to fully realize. But I believe that through eternal vigilance and dedication to the freedom our founders envisioned, that we can "secure the blessings of liberty for ourselves and our posterity."

That belief is what propels me to consider seeking your support for my possible bid to succeed Congressman Bob Beauprez in the 7^th Congressional District, should he decide to run for Governor.

Since first I placed my name in the arena of public service in 1994, I have insisted upon commitment to "the oath of office" that every elected official swears to uphold. That oath is what distinguishes our Republican system of government from a democracy. "The oath" holds us all accountable, not to majority opinion or to "our district," but rather to the Constitution. I submit to you that the reason we have so much lawlessness is because elected officials, by and large, pay lip service to their oath.

My voting record over the eight years I served as State Representative is proof that my commitment to this great Republic transcends partisan politics. I love and am a true believer in the vision of a free and safe America.

Therefore, I will work to:

Stop illegal immigration and regain control of our borders. It is disingenuous to have a War on Terror when our borders are wide open. We cannot thoroughly address Social Security, National Security, Health Care and Education without dealing with the crisis of illegal immigration. The financial security of American workers is threatened by the impacts of illegal immigration, as well as irresponsible trade programs such as NAFTA, CAFTA, GATT and FTAA, that put American workers at a competitive disadvantage.

Reduce government spending! Government growth and power are out of control. The Federal debt, deficit, growth of government and unfunded liabilities puts a lien on freedom and mortgages the future of America. I will work to enact a federal Taxpayer Bill of Rights.

Reduce the burden of taxation on our families and small businesses, while eliminating corporate welfare. I support fundamental, immediate tax reform that is simple, fair, and fully disclosed.

Ensure all Americans have the right to be safe in their homes, on their streets, and in their communities. We must provide victims with the tools to hold those who violate their safety, and freedom, accountable. We must also enact strict penalties for criminals and predators, free from judicial activism.

Promote life and the defense of liberty. This means the right to life for all Americans, especially the weak, vulnerable and unborn. I will also fight to protect our 2^nd amendment right to defend our lives, liberty and property.

I have fought the good fight and been tested on the battlefield of public debate by actually casting votes and taking principled stands in accordance with the original intent of the Constitution. I have stood my ground in the face of tremendous opposition, and even scorn, defending your freedom.

If you want the assurance of someone who not only talks the talk, but walks the walk; who has been mindful of his priorities: God, family, country, career, respectively; who knows the joys and challenges of staying married (27 years) and raising three children (my youngest is now in college); and who loves people, then I offer myself to be your servant and leader in a quest to restore America and return her to the path of "Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness."

Comments

[john birch]

Most amazing part of the letter: vocal opposition to NAFTA, CAFTA, GATT, and FTAA. This sets him apart the the vast bulk of the republican establishment, especially business, but plays well with the fringe base.

He gets instant credibility with about 10% of the volunteer/activist base. But he shuts down almost all the high-dollar fundraising.

Is he thinking he'll get some union support from the general for this? if he is, he's been smoking his John Birch Society flyers.

[Kook]

Mark's a Kook. Totally.

Oh well...

[Hugo O'conor]

I guess he has his wedge issue. Who knew he'd drive a wedge through his own base?

[REPin7th]

Who is supporting Paschall? Who will likely make up his campaign staff? what does this mean to O'Donnell?

[D'Simone]

If we can use Mark's years of performance in the state legislature as an indicator of what his performance as a congressman would be like - he will go nowhere in this latest persuit.

[Extra! Extra!]

Paschall tops Jeffco officials in expenses
by Jonathan Ellis
canyoncourier.com
Wednesday, May 4, 2005

...But the bulk of last year's expenses belong to three other officials - Treasurer Mark Paschall and commissioners Rick Sheehan and Pat Holloway. Together, the three rang in $20,530.

Paschall led the pack in 2003, billing $8,677 to taxpayers. He spent $3,664 of that on travel and lodging.

Paschall attended two conferences hosted by the National Association of Counties. The first took place in Washington, D.C. He missed the conference's opening two days, but stayed in the nation's capital for three days after the conference to lobby Colorado's congressional delegation.

The second conference took place in Milwaukee. He also rented a hotel room in Fort Collins for a state treasurer's meeting.

Paschall spent $1,390 on meals - more than any other elected official. According to credit card statements, he ate some of those meals on business trips. But the vast majority of his eating expenses were incurred in Colorado during his day-to-day duties as treasurer.

Paschall's other expenses included more than $1,220 to the National Association of Counties and hundreds of dollars in parking, taxi and auto-related reimbursements. His spokeswoman did not return a phone call seeking an explanation for other charges on his credit card.
...

Copyright © 2005 Evergreen Newspapers All Rights Reserved.

[Steve]

Man, he has a lot of baggage. Do you think he can overcome it?

http://www.progressnow.org/weblog/archives3/permalink/000234.cfm

[unaffiliated]

The press does not want to give Paschall a fair shot. To understand where this came form, look no further than the shots taken by Lawrence and Sheehan, two proven crooks, who used Paschall to divert attention from their own seedy affairs (literally). Dont you remember, "Treasurer bouncing checks headline?" Now, who honestly believes that a county treasurer's office writes out million dollar checks? Paschall was under a witchhunt and never flinched. Instead, he reformed the retirement system for the county (which was under intesnse scrutiny prior to his arrival), he brought the county whistleblower who was fired once for reporting the truth down to his office as an employee (she is now the internal auditor).
Oh, then that bad Paschall brings on Congrove (who was also assailed by the press at the same time) who is now the Commissioner cleaning house in Jeffco and restoring integrity.
The dems always tell people not to believe what they read...hmmm...does that only go one way?

[Dark horse]

County Treasurer Paschal has proved at least two things over the years. 1. He is an articulate and unafraid defender of our rights and freedoms 2. Despite what his leftest detractors say about his chances, he consistently gets elected in districts/counties where the left says the registration numbers will not support him.

He does this with a populist message which strikes a common chord in people within his district regardless of their party affiliation.

I definitely would not count him out!

[Irishstout]

Remember, there is no love lost with Paschall and Owens. On the last day of the 2002 session, many onlookers saw Owens shake Paschall's hand and say, "You're a worthy opponent."
This is a guy who does not toe a party line. That's what the fear is from both parties.
One more tidbit, when he ran for his House seat, the demographics were identical to the 7th CD with the Dems having a higher registration rate. After his first term, the GOP registration in that district surpassed the Dems by 1500.
Oh, and the scuttlebutt is...that Owens will be appointing Coffman to the Sec of State seat, Hillman to the state Treasurer when Davidson goes to the Bush admin. All to free up Mr. O'Donnell from ANY competition. Can we say anointed?

[spanky]

Also, Paschall's office is the leanest in the county. He is constantly under budget and the news won't report that. Do the research for yourself and pull up the Jeffco budget. Then call the news and ask why they don't report that.

[tsr]

Irish Stout:

You must be from the O'Donnell camp, then. Becuase they are the ones floating THAT particular rumor. Even MC laughs at that one.

[killians]

Irishstout, that's the most ridiculous conspiracy theory I've ever heard. One worthy of the fringe, Owens-hating right wing.

[know]

Yep. I asked Mike about this one, too. Nope. He wishes.

[Bob Tandry]

Paschall, a POPULIST??? Did you read his letter? He may be able to put on a moderate face, but when the rubber meets the road...gimme a break.

A candidate as far right as Paschall would never win in a district as moderate as the 7th. Heck, Nader had a better chance in that district than Paschall will.

[irishstout]

Whoa, extra extra! Nice job making the article you posted during Paschall's war with the commissioners when he first entered office look like recent news. Almost had me fooled!

[Steve]

Irish Stout -

Just trying to refresh your memory. This stuff is still out there and not going away. And most people will NOT dismiss it as quickly as you.

[ohwilleke]

I sure hope he runs, and wins the primary. It will make Democrats job a lot easier.

[Steve]

No kidding! Lamm or Perlmutter would be a shoe in if up against Paschall.

[irishstout]

Just remember - the Perlmutter/Lamm race is going to shed a lot of blood for the D's.

[Phoenix Rising]

I doubt the new activists in the Dem party are going to be quiet if Perlmutter and Lamm start lobbing bombs across the fence at each other. Miles and Salazar managed to keep a respectable primary campaign last season, and Dems in this state remember the effects of bad primaries - bloodshed in CD-7 isn't going to go over well.

[Skippy Mcguski]

The blogger who posted about Mr. Paschall partying on taxpayer money in Washington instead of going to the conference... said it all about this sleazemaster.

Oh and the man love's his meals.... and whats a good meal without DRINKS! Eh Mark?

Meanwhile, all the time talking about his personal relationship with God while flirting with women... His strong religious convictions and rock solid marriage to his wife are his two favorite topics of conversation with members of the opposite sex.

People that REALLY know Mark Paschall know him to be interested in only one thing and it's not YOU or I.
IT IS HIMSELF and HIS POLITICAL GROWTH!

Now does that make him diffeent than any other politician, probably not. But what the heck, I've got a personal interest in this LIAR and DEFENDER OF SELF.

Coming soon: www.voteagainstpachall.com including pictures. ;-)

Nite Gracie! Skippy Mcguski