Politics

AZ Republican Recruits ‘Street People’ to Run as Green Candidates

Thomas Meadows is not your typical candidate. Maybe more candidates need to wear jester caps and practice the art of Tarot card reading. But he has a direct message: “It’s not the land off the free…it‘s the land of what’s for sale.”

Meadows is one of several Arizona “street people” recruited by a Republican candidate for state legislature, Steve May, to run for various political offices under the Green Party banner.  The strategy here is the hope that the “sham” candidates draw votes away from Democratic Party candidates.

As you might imagine, this is drawling howls of outrage from the Democrats.

“The evidence is compelling,” said Democratic Party spokeswoman Jennifer Johnson. “And it shows an utter disregard for the voters of Arizona.”
What was a local dispute is now drawing national attention. It’s a major story in The New York Times.
AZ Republican Recruits Street People to Run as Green Candidates
Mr. May rejects any claim that his candidates, including Ben Percy the “illegitimate son of a stripper,” are part of any kind of a “sham:”
“Are you fake, Grandpa?” he said to Anthony Goshorn, 53, a candidate for the State Senate whose bushy white beard and paternal manner have earned him that nickname on the streets. “I’m real,” he replied.
I understand the political principal that you “owe it to your philosophy to know how to win.” And I endorse the idea that mastering the technologies of politics enhances your chances of winning. And I‘m open to persuasion that May’s tactics serve as some kind of commentary on the ridiculousness on Arizona politics. But it does seem that an effort like this might simply undercut May’s overall credibility. And reduce the effectiveness of his own message.  Why not focus more on what you have to offer than trying a political “trick play” in hopes of siphoning off a few democratic votes.
And perhaps Gawker asks the best question:
How on earth did May “befriend” the “one-armed pregnant woman named Roxie” who later introduced him to his candidates?

Comments (110)

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  • D-D-D-Dave
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:59am

    It’s called turnabout, and it is indeed fair play.

    Report Post » *PATRIOT*GAMES*  
  • AirFiero
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:52am

    The left HATES it when you use their tactics against them. LOL

    Report Post »  
  • grayjohn
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:52am

    This why I am no longer a republican and will not support the party. We don’t need jerks like this in any party.

    Report Post » grayjohn  
  • Deutscher
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:52am

    So much for restoring honor.

    Report Post »  
  • Skwerl
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:50am

    To behave in a dishonourable manner is always despicable. Take heed my siblings in Liberty: Character matters.

    Report Post »  
  • CheesecakeLarry
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:49am

    Dave? It’s ok to speak your mind, you don’t have to “walk around” the point. If you are shy about posting what you really think, then take your time and really try to articulate your thoughts.

    Heehee.

    Seriously? Well said!

    Report Post »  
  • warriorcop
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:26am

    It was ok when ACORN did it. What is good for the Goose……

    But for the record, anyone doing this needs to be locked up and sedated

    Report Post » Obama Bin Lying  
  • NC
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:26am

    I think it’s a great idea.

    There are thousands of stories of good honest people becoming homeless and this situation is not one of their preference.

    If running for office can give an individual a sense of self-worth and give them a hand up instead of a hand out. So be it.

    NC (was almost homeless)

    Report Post » NC  
  • joshua
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:20am

    i do not condemn the Tactics, just letting it “filter through” that a Republican is behind is this. It is not Honorable. It is not Acceptable. The Voters of Arizona do have their “own” minds however and if the big goverenment/liberal/progressive party cannot solidify their base, then it show how “politics” in general, is a dirty, dirt, game….vote you conscience!

    Report Post » joshua  
  • AmericanMutt
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:19am

    Sorry to say this, but chances are that the “one-armed pregnant woman named Roxie” would do a markedly better job than obama. At least she understands what it’s like to be on the low end of the totem pole…

    (With apologies to our Native American brothers and sisters!)

    Report Post » AmericanMutt  
  • dheard
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:16am

    this is poor form on the republican candidate’s side. just b/c it doesn’t violate any “rules” doesn’t make it okay. the thing that concerns me is if a candidate is willing to use this kind of tactic to get into office, what kind of deals would he make to help himself when he IS in office? it seriously undermines his credibility and integrity as an individual, but even more so as a rep for the people of arizona. i agree w/ many of the above posters that say this guy needs to get tossed and the republican party better come up w/ a good, conservative candidate. that is to say, if all of what was reported is true. if it is true, it makes it easy to believe that this guy would become as corrupt as most of the other ruling class and that ain’t what we need.

    Report Post »  
  • CheesecakeLarry
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:14am

    “Those who are too smart to engage in politics are punished by being governed by those who are dumber.”
    Plato

    Report Post »  
  • Scootin_Fool
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:01am

    Confirmation, once again, that the Republican party and the Democrat party are all the same when it comes to politics. A good number of them have no ethics and will simply do anything to win. I appreciate that the Blaze posted this story. If it were a Democrat doing this, the MSM would never report it.
    If a homeless guy wants to run for public office, that’s great, and he should, but nobody should be using him to push their own agenda. The very idea of someone using another person like this is reprehensible.

    Report Post »  
    • forTforMAG
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:15am

      Soros is using Obama….

      Report Post » forTforMAG  
    • missmarie
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 10:06am

      I agree Scoot! I’m sick and tired of the “well he did it first” mentality around our country and around our globe. Didn’t fly with my children and it unacceptable behavior for adults.

      If the Republican candidates are unable to get their message out to a very hungry and thirsty constituency – perhaps they aren‘t saying the right things or their past actions haven’t instilled a sense of trust among the voters.

      I have no problem with a homeless person running for office, but if he is being used by any party as a pawn – it is up to the people of Arizona to inform their candidates that they don’t believe their elections are games and they expect their candidates to have a certain level of decorum.

      But, that’s just my opinion….

      Report Post » missmarie  
  • Conserving Ink
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:59am

    I know this is wrong on so many levels, but it is hilarious. Is anyone getting this on film? It is going to be the funniest political documentary ever!

    Report Post » Conserving Ink  
  • SuperSparky
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:56am

    Even a so-called “street person” has a right to run for office.

    Report Post »  
  • Gonzo
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:54am

    Street person… Democrat… Green partier…what’s the difference?

    Report Post » Gonzo  
    • professorG
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:17am

      When you put it that way it’s really difficult to distinguish between them. Maybe it’s true, there are no real differences.

      Report Post »  
    • Wiz001
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:57am

      The sad fact is that Democrats do not vote on the Substance of what a candidate stands for just that they are not a Repub. or it is who the party told them to vote for ie: Alvin Green ( homeless man) who won by a landslide(how much research could they have done on him??). So maybe they have decided that the regular Demo. candidates are so out of touch, that ANYONE else is better, except they won’t vote repub. In this day of computers why do we need these people in washington. They could poll the general population for any new B.S. laws.. Frankly I am tired of PAYING some idiot to sit in Washington and make dumb new laws, just so they can keep their job. Do we not have enough stupid laws already?? And should it not be up to the states to care for its people instead of the feds( which does not even do its job so securing our borders)?.. We see daily that the feds are WAY OUT OF TOUCH with the states people, and just want to control all. this is like the ground zero thing is it Legal? YES.. is it moral? probably not.. This will be interesting to watch…

      Report Post »  
  • forTforMAG
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:50am

    Politics suck. God save us all. Jesus Christ…just to clarify.

    Report Post » forTforMAG  
  • scseahawk
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:46am

    Is everyone saying that because you are homeless you cannot make a politician? Any one can be a politician, what is tough is to be a statesman. Being a statesman requires honor, unwilling to compromise your morals and standards, and a willingness to stand for what is right.
    As a citizen, we also have a responsibility. To be responsible citizens, live moral lives, and take part in our community. Read what our founders said about what it takes for America to survive as a republic. Read, learn, act, then teach others about our true history!!!

    Report Post »  
    • heidi586
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:38am

      How right you are! Thomas Meadows could be a wonderful politician – and who knows…a honest statesman?! I have no ideas what his views and ideas are…so I can’t comment on his running for office; but as for Republican candidate for state legislature, Steve May – Because of his tactics and less then honorable behavior….I wouldn’t vote for him to be dog catcher; the dogs deserve better. I am so sick of underhanded, sneaky, dishonest, snake in the grass politicians of all labels! This just goes to prove some of the GOP still is wandering in the dark….wanting to return to ‘things as usual’….why do they think many ‘of the people’ are upset, showing up at town halls, & 500,000+ strong in DC?? HONOR! The want of HONOR in office and all times!

      Report Post » heidi586  
    • heidi586
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 10:12am

      My brain was working faster then my fingers this morning…I meant to say….I have no clue what his views and ideas are – - – -

      Report Post » heidi586  
  • jmb847
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:46am

    Just more confirmation that the GOP doesn’t understand the anger of the people much better than the Democrats. Get rid of the bum.

    Report Post »  
  • blueberrynoname
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:45am

    fighting fire with fire…someone will get burn! I hope its not the voters.

    Report Post »  
    • bsuhj
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 10:08am

      I don’t see how the voters can get burned on this. If these “green party” candidates get any votes it will be from the people that are too stupid to have a reasonable opinion. This will only make the voters that have a brain more effective. I say the more idiots that are taken out of the voting process the better. It is politics as usual, if the libs do it, it is brilliant if the conservitives do it, it is underhanded? come on, we have to destroy the libs now before they completely destroy the country. we are running out of time.

      Report Post »  
    • Silversmith
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 1:01pm

      @bsuhj If we trade our values to achieve a good end what are we left with? The ends do not justify the means. We, as conservatives, must resist the urge to win at all costs – even though we feel such desperation for the right outcome. We have to be worthy of the win. We must be able to have faith in our conduct so it is unassailable. If we can’t, then what do we offer really? Just a slightly different version of our opponents. And how long before we become them?

      Silversmith

      Report Post » Silversmith  
  • KenM2
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:43am

    The ultimate end to an election is to have the will of the people decided, therefore dirty politics should be outlawed and some sort of punishment should be given for anyone involved, no matter what party uses them. I know the Democrats in my home state of Michigan have recently tried and failed to use dirty politics and it’s just as reprehensible for the Republicans to use them.

    Report Post »  
  • fangbanger
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:34am

    I don’t respect his tactics at all. Where is the honor in exploiting the ignorance of democrats. How can ou expect democrats to explore the candidates and make the best decision for themselves. We all already know that just having a green party candidate will grab the evil “ know it all college” hippies, btw those are the worst kind of hippie. Id even wager that some of these homeless characters may even make for better politicians than those that are running.

    Report Post » fangbanger  
  • BoilitDown
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:30am

    In the last 20 or so years you could count the times I agree with Democrats on your fingers.
    This is one of those occasions.
    The Republicans should show him the door immediately and make an example of what the American and specifically Arizona public is outraged about in government.
    This is not to say that I am a Republican either.
    “It’s only politics, it’s no big deal” can no longer be accepted. That’s the “Blagojevich excuse”.

    Also, the Tea Parties need to loudly condemn this and also use it as an example.

    Report Post »  
    • LadyIzShy
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:59am

      I actually agree with you. The GOP should make an example of him and send him packing. If we cant win HONESTLY we do not deserve to win at all

      Report Post » LadyIzShy  
    • The Architect
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:37am

      I agree. This is against the honor we are trying to restore in America and in our government. Thumbs down to this guy.

      Report Post »  
    • tmoo
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:58am

      If General Washington had used your sense of honor we would be speaking w/a British accent right now.
      Your whiny sense of honor shows the same lack of spine or commitment to moving our adgenda forward as got us us behind the 8 ball in the 1st place. Restoring Honor is not a sucide pact by being a Miss Manners. And stop calling it dishonor….it’s political stratergy…Now….pick up your musket and move forward.

      Report Post » tmoo  
    • Damage6
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 10:14am

      I agree this is beneath the standards of conduct I expect from any elected official. Good example of why we can’t just rubber stamp our support onto the GOP. Make them earn it.

      Report Post » Damage6  
    • DanB
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 11:24am

      Republicans against this? All too many Republicans seem to be Democrats in disguise. Commonly called “Rhinos.” The Republican party is one step away from being the Democratic Party Stop Gap Party. Sure, there are a few true conservatives in the Republican Party, but where else do they to go with enough voter market/money to get them elected to where they can make a difference? As for myself, I really do hope the true Tea Party movement swallows up the Republican Party and spits out those “Rhinos.” It won’t happen instantly. So while I think this sort of political move is awful and should be despised, I don’t think the Republican Party has been reformed from their Progressive ways yet enough to become the conservatives they claim to be.

      As for this just being “politics,” here’s a thought: By their actions will you know them. Or, by their fruit you may know of their goodness. If they lie, cheat, and steal now to win the election, you darn better be prepared for them to lie, cheat, and steal as your elected official. So, if you accept this behavior for the election, you must expect to be so treated while they represent you. That is why some of us say this is inappropriate and should not be. It isn’t whether it is legal. This is an issue of character. I would not want someone who lies, cheats, and steals to represent me…. Though some of seem to think it should be a legal issue–to which I think there the legality should not be an issue. As I said, it is a character issue. Since this action isn’t necessarily illegal, we do get a chance to see the character of the people we would elect. Fortunately for me, I do not live where I have to even consider voting for/against this candidate. Unfortunately for me, if he wins, I am afraid that these tactics will continue to gain acceptance.

      Report Post »  
    • chattycathy
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 11:52am

      I am a member of a Tea Party and I condemn it. I also believe that we have to win honestly. I expect cheating and dirty tricks from the left during elections but I don’t tolerate it from the right. This guy obviously has no integrity so I would never vote for him and he could never be trusted. I am tired of watching Democrats get elected to office due to fraudulent votes obtained by illegal voter registration (ACORN), recounts which suddenly produce ‘lost’ ballots for Democrats and their repeated manta of unsubstantiated cheating by the right. I definitely don’t want the right to start using these tactics.

      Report Post »  
  • tmoo
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:21am

    It will be fun watching the Dems try this stratergy on Repubs. Of course it will not work. The Dems severely underestimate the intellegence and common sense of the conservatives. This freak show only appeals to the naive and bent portion of our culture..ie liberals. A good job for the Community Organizers (agitators) among them.

    Report Post » tmoo  
    • kishamajors
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 11:24am

      : ) LOL I agree! This is just a way to agitate the democrats. And no normal conservative will fall for it either. Although, not that I am against an “illegitimate son of a stripper” running on the green ticket. By all means! Go for it! More normal or at least “real” people running would certainly be a “change” for the better good. I WISH we could stop paying the people who are voted in. Maybe then we’d get people who actually do care about this country rather than those who want to harm it.

      Report Post » Kisha  
    • bbordwell
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 12:25pm

      >>And no normal conservative will fall for it either.

      Does Ross Perot ring a bell?

      Report Post »  
  • DGroundhog
    Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:13am

    Gee – it was just fine when it was fake Tea Party candidates.

    Double standard? Naaahhhhhhhhhhhh!

    Report Post »  
    • iatoala
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 8:26am

      It is obvious it doesn’t take much to entice the Democrat voters. Id prefer this guy to Potus they have the same message but I like this guys fauxhawk.

      Report Post » iatoala  
    • WVRob
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 11:08am

      Double standard yes. The right thing to do, no. It’s time to stop playing politics and doing what is right, if a candidate can’t win while being honorable then so be it. Stopping to the level of the gutter dwelling in politics is not the right thing to do.

      Report Post » WVRob  
    • klstj
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 1:44pm

      Wvrob….I agree! Do the right thing, restore honor, restore honesty, we will go to all ends to support decency. It’s time for all these fakes, liars, tricksters, people on the take to go away. It’s time for real people to be in charge, people of character and morality. If you feel you need to play tricks to win then your no better than the filth that needs to be washed out of Washington.

      Report Post »  
    • nicholjm
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 4:12pm

      Nice to see some integrity from posters here, I agree weed out the nutters, there’s nothing wrong with honor, integrity ans intelligence.

      Report Post »  
    • bauer242
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 5:31pm

      Instead of democrats rounding up the homeless with smelling salts and fee smokes to vote. Now the homeless are being asked to run for office.Way to community organize!!!

      Report Post »  
    • ChrisInAR
      Posted on September 7, 2010 at 9:13pm

      @WVROB:

      Thank you.

      I likewise believe that conservatives should use HONOR in their campaigns. The 8-28 Rally had a purpose: let’ss show a little class by doing the right thing.

      Report Post » Chris G  
    • t_lashley
      Posted on September 8, 2010 at 7:11am

      Isnt that more or less how we got McCain for president… dems voting for him in open primaries??? That diluted the vote of Republican voters.

      Report Post » Armed Patriot  
    • Beckofile
      Posted on September 9, 2010 at 5:01pm

      Looking at the title I harken back to the fact that I thought all Green candidates come from the street or some hippie indoctrination station like Colorado University or California?

      Report Post » Beckofile  
    • Buck Bagaw
      Posted on September 12, 2010 at 2:22pm

      I too believe in honor and integrity,but, politics is a dirty game. When power and fortune are at stake virtue seems to hide in the closet. Liberals will use any means fair(seldom) or foul to attain their goals and to defeat these radicals it is necessary to get a little muddy. The alternative is to be a slave to their policies that is proud to have run a clean campaign. We are fighting for the existence of the Republic here people and fighting “fair” will result in losing.

      ‘Tolerance is the last virtue of a dying society’ Aristotle

      Report Post »  
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