A Report From Rock Hall

Thanks to the DOZENS of Republicans of Kent members who were able to attend the Kratovil event in Rock Hall this afternoon. I would estimate that there were over 200 people crowded into the steamy meeting room. The Congressman spoke for about 15 minutes, then took questions for about 20 minutes.

A number of times, he reminded the crowd that he spend 16 years as a prosecutor, so he pledged that he will prepare for the health care vote like he did for his trials by "reading every word of the health care legislation" before making up his mind and casting his vote. During the question period, he asked the crowd how many would support a public option. About one-third of the room raised their hand. The crowd then demanded that he ask how many opposed a public option. About two-thirds raised their hands, whistled, and stomped their feet. For a 16-year veteran prosecutor, he forgot one of the cardinal rules of the profession: never ask a question for which you don't already know the answer. I bet he wishes now that he had never asked that question!

I can't help but think he came away with the strong impression that his district's voters do not support the Obama/Pelosi/Reid efforts to pass a national health care plan. Time will tell whether he will vote in a manner that reflects his constituent's views or whether he will tow the Pelosi line as he did when voting in support of the Cap and Trade legislation.

I was also amazed at what appeared to be a crowd turnout generated by the “Organizing for America” group, the arm of the Obama/DNC machine. They had identical signs printed on home computers that had obviously been emailed in an organized effort to show support. My impression is that many of these folks weren’t even from Kent County. In fact, I snapped the enclosed pictures of one of their vehicles. I’ve never seen this contraption on Kent County roads. Have you?! Notice the sticker on the back for "Sutton for Sheriff". Not in Kent County. In fact, last election our Republican Sheriff, John Price, was unopposed!

In any event, I think those opposed to the government's health care plan made our voices heard. A number of us will drive over to Towson University on Monday afternoon for Ben Cardin's Town Hall meeting. If you are interested in car pooling, please reply to this email message.

Thanks,

Joe Holt

UPDATE:

"I do not recall you asking my permission about posting my car license plates on the Internet since the Healthcare Reform Town Hall disrupters have a record of violence. Are you trying to make me a target of political violence?"

My Reply:

If you believe I am in any way, shape or form trying to bring political violence upon you, you're nuts. Secondly, have you looked at the bumper stickers on your vehicle???? How dare you ask ME if I'm trying to bring something upon you. Get a life.