Billy Long and plausible deniability: Did Congressman Long give the F.B.I. and Sheriff Arnott a list of names of those who publicly criticized Long?

Plausible Deniability refers to the denial of blame in loose and informal chains of command where upper rungs quarantine the blame to the lower rungs, and the lower rungs are often inaccessible, meaning confirming responsibility for the action is nearly impossible. In the case that illegal or otherwise disreputable and unpopular activities become public, high-ranking officials may deny any awareness of such act or any connection to the agents used to carry out such acts.

In politics and espionage, deniability refers to the ability of a "powerful player" or actor to avoid "blowback" by secretly arranging for an action to be taken on their behalf by a third party—ostensibly unconnected with the major player. In political campaigns, plausible deniability enables candidates to stay "clean" and denounce advertisements that use unethical approaches or innuendo based on opposition research. (from wikipedia)

Sheriff Arnott told Bowler, "Mr. Long's staff came forward, I don't know if he knows who you are."

Also, the FBI agent who interviewed Bowler said, in response to Bowler's comment that other bloggers in the area wrote critically of Long also, "It wouldn't surprise me if they're not being talked to by some law enforcement agency, too."

The FBI agent also said, "Some people have knee jerk reactions" and Bowler was well within his rights as a citizen to scrutinize elected officials and hold them responsible.

When this story broke last night, news reports quoted Greene County Sheriff Jim Arnott as saying that Long's office provided him with a list of people who "were worrisome to Long" and that "that the FBI was preparing to visit other bloggers in the area."

Those two remarks have since been removed from the news reports. Earlier internet accounts of Bowler's encounter with the FBI and Greene County Sheriff Arnott included the "worrisome to Long" and "that the FBI was preparing to visit other bloggers in the area".

In a report on KY3.com "Sheriff Arnott says the interview had nothing to do with Bowler's blog. Arnott said Friday he initiated contact with the FBI after being contacted by Rep. Long's office. Arnott said he does not believe Rep. Long even knew his office staff sent out any concerns regarding Bowler."

Remember Arnott telling Bowler that "I don't know if he (Long) knows who you are."

Long knows who Bowler is, all right. And if Arnott thinks he doesn't.... Well, I'm not saying, I'm just saying...

In conversations with staff members of past and present politicians, all of them said in a matter such as this they would have cleared it with the elected official before they submitted names to law enforcement officials.

If Long's staff did not clear giving up names of bloggers who were "worrisome to Long" to Arnott prior to doing so... well,I'm not saying, I'm just saying....

interregation

Is Billy Long abusing his position?

Remember when Long or someone on his staff turned over to the F.B.I. the names of those bloggers who were 'worrisome to Long'? Turns out that all those interactions between Long and the bloggers (You remember, the asking Billy questions he wouldn't answer and how he would just walk away from those seeking answers of him) all those events occurred in a one week period in early September during Billy Long's business tour in which he encouraged members of the public to come out and discuss issues. Well, they did. And this was Billy's response. (remember this all took place between September 6 -10, 2010 by several bloggers in the 7th district.)
Here are the tapes:

Notice in this tape after Billy gets down taking about how important the young people are to him, how he just ignores a question from one of the college students not once but twice.

In clip, Long ignores the questioner:

In this clip, after Long had spoken at Meek's Lumber in Monett, he completely ignores the blogger.

After that horrible tragedy in Tuscon, Long gave Sheriff Arnott a list of names, probably six, of people who were worrisome to him. Arnott told the press and the F.B.I. said the bloggers would be receiving a visit from law enforcement agencies.

These video tapes, all taped in the week of September 6, 2010, show Long consistently refusing to answer questions from constituents.

It wasn't until January, four months after the fact and a week after the Tuscon tragedy that Long decided these encounters were worrisome to him.

But, Sheriff Arnott says Long didn't give him the names, his staff did. But in the tapes, Long is generally alone without staff present -- save for one instance in Monett.

Videotapes don't lie. You have seen citizens question public officials like this frequently-- just watch C-Span. It happened to Roy Blunt. He didn't turn names of the questioners into the F.B.I. If Long embellished his tales of the encounters with the bloggers (I mean the guy's an auctioneer, would he embellish?) to make them more threatening than they were, as he appears to have based on the video tape evidence, Long's motives for doing so become suspect.

Long has a history of playing a victim. You heard that in his tale of what he is giving up-- his auction company...what kind of assets does an auction company have, anyway? A couple of portable pa's? A computer, a trailer maybe and a whole bunch of bidder number cards. He plays the victim with the bloggers.

Billy Long, Sheriff Arnott used the F.B.I. in an attempt to intimidate critics.

I gotta tell you, if the Greene County Sheriff and an F.B.I. agent came to my house (and I live in Greene County so Arnott would be in the right county) and started asked me questions I would have never thought to record the interview, in fact, I would have probably been scared sh*tless and fumbled all over myself trying to answer their questions.

Arnott and the F.B.I. agent --he's the only guy in this whole affair who was doing the right thing. Based on the information he was given, he had to check it out. The only problem is the information he was given was not true.

Bus riders, you watched the videos. did Billy look threatened? Using my favorite John Boehner quote, "Hell NO!" He ignored us most of the time.

I recorded an hour of conversation with Billy Long. His staffer kept telling him that they needed to go to another event. Billy kept talking. The staffer kept trying to shut him up. Here's what I wrote on that occasion:

At the very end of my conversation with Billy on September 7, 2010, I asked him if he furnished health insurance for his employees. During last night's debate, our favorite auctioneer was asked how much his health insurance cost. He didn't know. Ask his wife, he said.

Ah jeez, this is a guy who wants us to send him to Washington and he wants us to ask his wife how much his health insurance costs. For someone who wants to repeal and replace "Obamacare" you would think that he would know how much his health insurance premiums were costing him, you know, just sort of as a talking point?

But, remember this: on September 7, 2010, I asked Billy Long if he provided health insurance for his employees.

Billy Long replied "They're all covered, I've offered it to them, the ones that don't have, everybody's got healthcare, I offer it to them either in salary and that, and they always take it in salary, so."

Long told me, "everybody's got healthcare."

Then he inserted this caveat: "I offer it to them either in salary and that, and they always take it in salary, so."

But he said, "They're all covered." Then he said, "they always take it in salary".

Doesn't that mean that no one is covered?

Long is Wrong for the seventh district and why the tea party folks aren't letting him that he is selling them out and fast, is beyond me.

Billy hasn't learned that the kind of crap you can pull at an auction, how you can sucker people and manipulate them into making higher bids is fine in an auction setting and joke around and play grabass maybe ok while you are wearing a mike and wielding a gavel but there is no place for such actions and antics when you are a congressman.

A simple search of this blog will turn up repeated instances where Long has embarrassed the district or demonstrated his lack of knowledge of what it means to be a congressman.

A man is known by the company he keeps and Billy is keeping company with everything he said he was against.

"Not afraid of anybody,anytime?" But you turned their names over to the police. And that Billy Long was an abuse of power and was wrong, wrong, wrong.

More here.

Is Billy Long a 'perceived threat' to President Obama?

A couple of weeks ago, Sheriff Jim Arnott told news outlets here in #SGF that Billy Long or his office had given him a list of names of people who were (quoting Arnott now) "worrisome to Long".

Arnott also said that several bloggers could expect a visit from him and the F.B.I. (No, I haven't been visited yet.)

One local blogger DID receive a visit from the Greene County Sheriff and the F.B.I. for being a "perceived threat" to Long.

Read related stories here.

Based upon the criteria used by Sheriff Arnott to justify that visit, it looks like Billy Long deserves a visit also. Bungalow Bill writes:

For the past two nights, Congressman Billy Long has been chasing Barack Obama in a series of events Obama has made appearances at. Oh but it gets worse. Congressman Long actually had the nerve enough, in America I might add, to question Obama's leadership and his words after last night's State of the Union Address. Long, a long-time vocal critic of Barack Obama told the Springfield News-Leader, "The content, to me, was lacking," Long said in a post-speech interview.

"We're in serious, serious problems in this country and we need to cut spending immediately. And he was talking about electric cars," he said.

It should also be noted that Congressman Long was overheard by a waitress in a Springfield trendy restaurant Long likes to refer to as "politics central" supposedly saying "We need to take back this country from the niggers and women running it… that’s the problem in D.C.”, so there could be a racial overtone to the "perceived threat," which makes all all the more serious based on accusations made against Long this past fall.

I mean this is America. You just can't expect people to criticize the leadership of one Barack Obama and get away with it. There has to be justice for Long's critical words despite the First Amendment. Wouldn't you agree Mr. Long and Sheriff Arnott?

By the way, content lacking, this country faces serious issues and there has to be more substance that just "fed up." Boy this does sound more and more like a perceived threat to me considering that's pretty much what I have been saying about Congressman Long for the past year, which is why his office notified the FBI for a "perceived" threat. See what I mean. Congressman Long is definitely a danger to Barack Obama (of course other than a little rehearsed sound bite that will go ignored throughout the country, I am sure Obama isn't too worried about Big Billy Long. In fact, he will probably be the subject of cabinet meeting jokes for along time to come).

Long who has a history of violent propaganda, was seen earlier this summer in a propaganda video looking like a crazed madman shaking his fist, calling Obama and some Democrats "liberal" over the preferred kinder and gentler "progressives" claiming he was fed up. Obviously there could be a threat here, and the FBI needs to take this very seriously and to discover if Long is "fed Up" enough to be pushed over the edge.

That's for me to know and you to find out.
In an interview published earlier this month in the Cincinnati Enquirer, the former auctioneer known for the large cowboy hat he wears, declined to say whether he had a conceal-and-carry permit or planned to travel with a gun, leaving it open to speculation that the ex-auctioneer may be packing heat.

"I don't want to go there," Long said. "If I was or wasn't ... nobody needs to know."

Long has been known to carry a sidearm and has been photographed wearing one.

D.C. news blog has story on bloggers "worrisome to Long"

During the Joplin debate, Long said to Eckersley, "Hot diggity dog. Anytime you lie, Scott, I'm going to holler out 'Hot diggity dog.' And you lied last night. You lied consistently about me that I signed some kind of a questionnaire."

When Billy votes to raise the debt ceiling will you join me in mailing, texting, emailing, calling Billy Long's office and shouting "HOT DIGGITY DOG!"
From Washington D.C. "The Hill":

Missouri blogger Clay Bowler is up in arms after being targeted by the FBI as a potential threat to newly elected Rep. Billy Long (R-Mo.).

Bowler is the author of a blog called Long is Wrong, in which he has questioned whether Long is conservative enough.

Bowler told local media that he was shocked last week when an FBI agent stopped by his house accompanied by Greene County Sheriff Jim Arnott. They told him that in the wake of the shooting spree in Tucson, Ariz., last Saturday, Long had identified Bowler as a possible threat.

“It’s political payback,” Bowler told the Christian County Headliner News. “I’ve poked fun at Billy. Part of it was satire — exposing Billy as not being a real Tea Party candidate.” Long was elected in November to the seat formerly held by now-Sen. Roy Blunt (R-Mo.).

In response to Bowler’s accusation, Long’s office issued this statement: “We will continue to work with the Capitol Hill Police and will follow their advice at every turn, as we have thus far. Any questions regarding this matter should be addressed to the Capitol Hill Police.”

A spokeswoman for the U.S. Capitol Police declined to comment.

But according to Sheriff Arnott, Bowler might not be the only person who’ll have a chance to talk to a G-Man about Long. Arnott told KSPR that Long identified several other people as potential threats.

On Friday, 01-14-2010, in an interview with Nick Reed of KSGF radio (listen to podcast here), Sheriff Arnott Long's office gave him Bowler's name.

Why did Long's office give up Bowler's name? Did they do a background check on Bowler and find questionable activities?

If so, is it common practice for an elected official to probe into the background of a constituent?

If Long's staff did not do a background check on Bowler, then why did they turn his name into Arnott?

For writing a blog critical of Billy Long?

In which case I should be expecting a visit?

This story is developing

Couple of days ago the Turner Report linked to a story in the Cincinnati Enquirer about congressmen who pack heat. Billy wouldn't cop out if he was carrying or not. But, this photo can certainly give us an indication.

Does Billy Long have an 'enemies list'?

It's beginning to look like it.

More here

And there's even more here.

Greene County Sheriff Jim Arnott says Billy Long's staffers gave authorities Bowler's name.

Like Bowler, I too have been critical of Long both during the campaign and after his election.

Does that make me, as Sheriff Arnott says, "worrisome to Long"?

Long has blocked me from following him on his twitter account Auctnr1.

Last September, then candidate Long and I had this exchange at a local trucking company:

BL: Where’s your bus?

JL: My bus is parked, I always park my bus.

BL: I want to see your bus, it’s, I wanted you to bring your bus.

MM: Well, I’m glad we came out here, I wanted you to hear

JL: I, uh.

BL: Well, thank you, I didn’t know this would be a public deal, we, we’re just touring and visiting with small business guy

MM: We don’t get to ask questions

JL: Well, that’s just

MM: The regular people don’t have much access to ask our questions. As you can see, we’re not here to attack.

BL: No. (overtalk about taking photos between group)

JL: You’re a public figure, we’re gonna make fun of you, no, not make fun of you, we’re gonna take, we’re gonna jab you. I mean, that’ part of the business.

BL: I know, Jim.

Harry S Truman said a lot of things, but it might behoove Long to heed this advice.

A frequent bus rider suggested I do a google search using the words "Billy Long FBI."

I did and I recommend you do too.

The following is from infowars.com:

Greene County Sheriff Jim “Arnott confirmed to KSPR News that Bowler isn’t the only local person who’s been scrutinized in the wake of last weekend’s shooting of Rep. Gabrielle Gifford (D-AZ) during a meet-and-greet with constituents in Tucson, Ariz,” states the report, affirming that the authorities are compiling new lists of Americans who are now considered to be potentially violent threats for the crime of asking their own public servants uncomfortable questions. Separately it was reported that the FBI was preparing to visit other bloggers in the area.

Targeting anyone who exercises their First Amendment right to redress their grievances against local representatives who are paid to serve them with home visits accompanied by FBI agents only has one outcome – it chills free speech and discourages other Americans from speaking out against the government. These tactics also have the impact of making asking questions of elected officials, the lifeblood of a free society, seem somehow abnormal or suspicious.

Once again, vultures are still busy circling around last weekend’s tragedy, using it as a vehicle through which to advance their own authoritarian and anti-American agendas of political repression.

Dissent is the highest form of patriotism, and any move to imply that asking questions of public officials or engaging in criticism of government is somehow suspicious or indicative of a violent individual is a damning indictment of everything America is supposed to stand for. Circumstances like these should only encourage Americans to become more vocal in their dissent while they still have any semblance of free speech left at all.

Blunt / Ashcroft Event At Greene County Sheriff's Training Room--Update

Earlier this afternoon I called Jenny Edwards, the Greene County Public Information Officer and asked her about the Blunt / Ashcroft event.

Her email response:

Jim, Sheriff Jim Arnott tells me any public official may request use of the Sheriff's Training room. The room is available subject to scheduling and the sheriff's discretion.

Congressman Blunt often uses this training room for announcements related to law enforcement. Sheriff Arnott said the room is ideal for use by public officials who travel with security detail, because everyone who enters the building must pass through the metal detector and have their bags screened.

Sheriff Arnott added that the invitation you received for Monday's event did not come from his office.

As you and I discussed on the phone, any individual or group may also request use of the Historic Courthouse Rotunda, Hearing Room, or grounds for public announcements or events. Requests must be made at least a couple of weeks in advance, require filling out a form, and must be approved by the county commission.

Please contact me if you have additional questions.

-Jenny

Helms, Yancy and Arnott---The "REP" Wins

The SN-L endorsed Ramon, Fabro and Lee. The county clerk's results show they all did about the same...they all split about 60/40
Arnott 58%
Ramon 41%

Kessinger 64%
Trippe 36%

Yancy 53%
Fabro 47%

Helms 59%
Lee 41%

what this tells me is that people voted their party, not the candidate.


McCain pulled 57%
Obama pulled 41%

The people who voted for McCain, stayed with their party in the down ticket races. Ditto for the people who voted for Obama.

There appeared to be very few cross over voters.

It will be interesting to see the precinct breakdown of votes.

To all those who supported me with their vote, thank you.

I was talking to a person this evening who told me that if I wanted to win an election in Greene County, I would have to run as a Republican. Somehow I can't see myself being in the party of Tim Trower and Ryan Cooper. Or Steve Helms.

Still Fed UP?

"Long has taken a low-profile path in his first year. He has joined the Republican Study Committee, a group of House conservatives, as well as the Songwriters Caucus and the Sportsmen's Caucus. But he declined an invitation to join the more high-profile Tea Party Caucus." Luckily he did have the time to join the "Cowboy Hat Caucus"

Low profile? You bet! Long is hard to find No live town hall meetings, screened press briefings, screens visitors to meetings, doesn't return phone calls. And in contrast to what Long told you, (The first-term lawmaker doesn't attend many news conferences or blast out a blizzard of press releases) he or someone in his office IS firing out press releases: http://long.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49§iontree=6,49

Long appears to be gearing up for a re-election campaign, using the theme of "I spent a year learning the ropes, you got to send be back up there because I know what to do now."

Last January, Billy Long gave to the F.B.I. the names of 6 bloggers who, in the words of the Greene County Sheriff Jim Arnott, "were worrisome to Long". Arnott and an F.B.I. agent started visiting the bloggers, all of whom had written posts critical of Long. http://blogs.riverfronttimes.com/dailyrft/2011/01/fbi_visits_missouri_blogger_wh.php and http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/01/now-that-billys-got-those-pesky.html

Last March, Long co-sponsored a bill because Peter King asked him to, Long later said he didn't know what was in the bill. When bloggers broke the story, the SN-L interviewed Long: "But when asked about the provision in the bill that would sell off the frequency used by amateur radio operators, Long said that was news to him. He said he co-sponsored the bill because King, the homeland security chairman, asked him to and because the bill is supported by many organizations that are committed to public safety, something he values."

Last April, "The National Auctioneer's Association called the office and they said, "We want you to proclaim the third Saturday in April, which a lot of states already have an auctioneer's day, a lot of cities already have an auctioneer's day. They say, "We'd like for you to 'drop that bill'." The NAA was a major contributor to Long's campaign, giving $5,000 in June 2010 and another $5,000 after Billy dropped the bill. http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/04/how-much-does-it-cost-to-drop-bill.html

The day after chastising fellow representatives who are just there for "window dressing", Long, following a series of meetings with PGA officials (Professional Golf Association), Long spoke on the House floor about the benefits of playing golf. http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/04/pga-salutes-billy-long-for-his-speech.html and http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/04/billy-long.html

Long has the time to have a 'series of meetings with PGA golf lobbyists and then bars members of the press from meeting with him at a press briefing in Springfield http://bungalowbillscw.blogspot.com/2011/04/member-of-missouri-press-association.html

Long has a reputation for 'tweeting' --- two most glaring examples were his tweet on the death of Amy Winehouse. Comparing what he thought was her addiction to drugs to Congress' addiction to spending money http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2018730/Amy-Winehouses-death-compared-US-debt-crisis-congressman-Billy-Long.html and his mocking of the NWS tornado warning tests that are broadcast on the radio. http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/05/joplin-congressman-bill-long-r-made-fun.html Long also made Keith Olbermann's "Worst Person in the World" list ..... twice. http://youtu.be/Ht3xYnAGgYU and http://youtu.be/I3Rugf19f10

Just yesterday he posted this tweet: auctnr1 Billy Long
"Congress won't be home for Christmas - a lot of our Troops won't be either - I think we can handle Christmas in DC - God Bless Our Troops" Long likes to wrap himself in a flag, up to the point of lacing up combat boots.

Then, there's that chicken business..... http://bungalowbillscw.blogspot.com/2011/12/update-on-usda-tyranny-of-dollarhite.html

But of course, Long is in his element when he explains to Sarah Steelman how you keep a free market free:

Last April, both Long and Senator McCaskill held meetings in MO7-- I attended both meetings and wrote about what I saw: http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/04/whats-difference-between-duck.html

As for Billy ---"Despite his lack of political experience and his outsider status, Long also seems comfortable in Washington. He's already made a half dozen or so good friends in the first year and seems to enjoy kibitzing with his colleagues (although he avoids Washington's night-time social circuit, preferring to go home for another sandwich and some rest.)" What Billy says he does and what Billy does are sometimes not the same: http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/04/long-spends-1333-in-campaign-funds-for.html and http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/06/million-dollar-billy.html

Our "smack talking auctioneer" who boasts of carrying around a dog-eared copy of the constitution in his pocket showed his true colors on the very first day the House was in session when he skipped the reading of the constitution to meet with a lobbyist.

It looks as if Long is getting himself in gear for a re-election campaign, It's an easy job, pays $14,500 a month, you only work two weeks a month and summer's off and great benefits. As Billy told you: "This job is not hard, It's not hard work. But it's long hours, and they keep you hopping all day."

Not too shabby of a quote from a guy who talks large and knows how to bluff.

If I were interviewing Billy, I would have asked him if he protested the fact that the congressional calendar has scheduled 145 days to not work in Washington. (Source: Congress At Your Fingertips, available in Long's office).

Then I would have asked what Long had done with all of this free time and what did his hand-picked group of 17 staffers do during that time.

Billy, being 'fed up' and all, I would have asked him to give specific details on how many times he met in his committee assignments and for copies of the speeches or his remarks or documents submitted outlining the specific cuts he recommended to downsize government and spending.

After all, he serves on the Homeland Security Committee and Transportation and Infrastructure Committees, both big spenders. Why hasn't the fence been built between usn's and them's. Did he take a trip since he had 145 days off to investigate?

I would have asked Billy about his support of the Ryan budget plan which, despite Long's assurances that "we've got to honor our committment to our seniors, effectively kills Medicare and Social Security as we know it.

Billy Long's salary is $14,500 a month, plus benefits. The average Social Security recipient in MO7 doesnt' receive anywhere near $14,500 a year with no benefits from Social Security. But Billy, despite his assuring us "I ain't afraid of nobody" has phalanx of young men surrounding him, protecting him from those who are 'fed up' with Billy Long.

I would have suggested to Billy that if you are going to stand in front of a group of your constituents and tell them not to believe what they read in the paper,(as he did at Experience Works in April) you should at least tell them why. You should be well versed enough in the budget you voted for to explain what the misconceptions are and what the effects will or might be.

I would also ask Billy if this article in today's SN-L "A year later, Long is still 'fed up'" is an example of one of those things we read in the newspaper that we shouldn't believe.

For another perspective on Billy Long ascension to political office, read Do what you can, have fun with what you are doing for as long as you can, and don't let that place screw you up too bad."

Springfield News-Leader calls out politician who used office to threaten others.

In an opinion piece in this morning's the editorial board of Springfield News-Leader called out politicians who use their public office to threaten threaten those who criticize them.

The subheading says it best: Lawmaker's effort to punish for opinions is a dangerous step

The editorial board writes: "If he is so thin-skinned that he cannot handle some healthy criticism, he should get out of public office. If he would use that public office to punish anyone who criticizes him, he should rethink his public service."

You guys talking about Billy Long?



Where was the editorial board when Billy Long was using his public office to turn over to FBI agents the names of those who wrote blog posts criticizing him?

From the bus barn, January 14, 2011: Billy Long and plausible deniability: Did Billy Long give the F.B.I. and Sheriff Arnott a list of names of those who publicly criticized Long?

When this story broke last night, news reports quoted Greene County Sheriff Jim Arnott as saying that Long's office provided him with a list of people who "were worrisome to Long" and that "that the FBI was preparing to visit other bloggers in the area."

Where was the editorial board when Billy Long threatened to withhold services to constituents who attended a meeting on the closure of the USPS Processing Center in Springfield?

From the bus barn, January 5, 2012: You CAN catch more flies with honey than you can with vinegar. but DON'T lie to use Billy Long, don't threaten us either!

You catch a lot more flies with honey than you do with vinegar. So, when you tell stories about me through some of your representatives that I want to privatize the Postal Service, which is an out and out lie, that doesn't help you any with me or my office. So....

Now that sounds like a threat to me.

Apparently the editorial board thinks it is ok for a politician to threaten other people but when they (the editorial board) feel threatened then it becomes worthy of an opinion piece.

I'm throwing the BS flag on this one.

Bowler's Republic address in Christian County, Arnott out of his jurisdiction from the git go.

Clay Bowler's Republic address, the one Sheriff Arnott used as a reason to accompany the F.B.I. agent, that address is south of county line road and is in Christian County.

Something's happening here, what it is aint' exactly clear.

There's a man with a gun over there, telling me I've got to beware.

Bus riders: have you ever heard of Gregg Hartley?

He describes himself on his twitter page as a Republican policy advisor.

Opensecrets.org, however, sees it another way and The Washington Post reports that "He (Hartley) has reorganized the firm and turned it into a predominantly Republican operation."

The firm with which he is, for now at least, Chief Operating Officer of, Cassidy & Associates, is one of the largest lobbying firms in D.C. One of their clients is City Utilities of Springfield, MO.

According to their website, Cassidy & Associates has "helped businesses, non-profits, and political figures navigate their way through once-in-a-lifetime crises that resulted from federal action."

Hartley also understands social media. Tweeting under the name GreggLHartley and listing his location as "The Shady Side", Hartley clocks in this morning with over 4,000 tweets.

Earlier this month, The National Journal's Jeremy Jacobs reported:

Former Missouri Treasurer Sarah Steelman picked up a big endorsement for her Senate bid on Thursday: Gregg Hartley.

Hartley is one of the top lobbyists on Capitol Hill, currently working for Cassidy and Associates. He has deep ties to Missouri, having served as Sen. Roy Blunt's (R) chief of staff as he was ascending the leadership in the House.

In an email to his personal email list -- obtained by Hotline On Call -- Hartley threw his weight behind Steelman. The email had the subject, "Steel Magnolia from Missourah," and in it Hartley wrote that he is ready to back Steelman even though it is unclear whether there will be a contested Republican primary.

"Too early to know for sure if there will be a serious primary or to predict winners," Hartley wrote. "But supporting a solid candidate isn't always that big of a choice. I've made mine."

Hartley also encourages the recipients of the email to visit Steelman's site and to consider making a contribution.

Talent this week announced that he would not seek the senate seat he lost to a Mccaskill in 2006.

Hartley, who supported Gary Nodler in the August primary, quickly shifted his allegiance to Billy Long and frequently tweets about it.

This morning, after I finished reading the print edition of the Springfield News-Leader (I love the smell of newspaper ink in the morning, it smells like...home), I switched to electronic media.

There I tumbled upon a series of twitter exchanges that started several days ago between Bungalow Bill (remember him? he's Christian County blogger who got a visit from Greene County Sheriff Jim Arnott and the F.B.I. for being critical of Billy Long.) and Hartley -- back in the day, we'd call it a 'pissing contest'.

Does anyone else wonder why Gregg Hartley, the COO of one of the most, if not the most powerful lobbying firms in Washington D.C., Cassidy & Associates, is allowing himself to get ruffled by a constituent of Billy Long's who asks tought questions and who was labeled by the Springfield News-Leader as a "thorn"?

The F.B.I. agent who, with Sheriff Arnott sitting on the couch next to him, conducted the interview, said to Bungalow Bill, the blogger in question, "You are absolutely in your right to do just that (question Long)and more power to you. That's what you're supposed to be doing: holding people accountable. Because that's the people we elect and they are supposed to be accountable to us. And somebody's got to do it and more power to you."

Yesterday, Hartley retweeted this from JamesMNHarris (as Bus riders may or may not know, Harriswas part of the Billy Long campaign team with Jeff Roe. Harris also achieved some sort of notoriety, I guess, caused by some stuff that went on in Washington MO during the election-- another pissing contest?): Amazing how individuals w/ no journalism training, but email or blog now think they are now reporters. Self proclaimed importance.

Sure looks like somebody is ruffling some feathers!

Getting back to what started this post, also on Hartley's twitter feed this morning is this:

Hill COS agreed this week to help with efforts for Veterans in Defense of Liberty..... about 6 hours ago via web from Shady Side, MD

I don't know who the "Hill COS" refers to, but I sure do know who the "Veterans in Defense of Liberty" are: That's the group formed earlier late last year by Scott Magill

They have a website and a member of the board of directors is Sam Paredes.

VIDOL also endorses candidates. Their website boasts "75% combat efficiency with 2010 endorsements".

"Combat efficiency"? WTF does that mean?

Angry people with guns who are mad at the government.

And Gregg Hartley's working with them.

Has Billy Long forgotten how to read?

Rep. Billy Long, shown speaking at an event in November, says he was unaware of complaints by ham radio enthusiasts. / News-Leader file photo, 2010

HB 607 -- which some see as containing an internet kill switch, is sponsored by Rep. Peter King.

The bill is co-sponsored by Representative Billy Long MO 7 (R).

You remember Billy, he's the guy who said, in an interview with the American Board for Certification in Homeland Security, "Peter King was looking for people who could take the tough votes," Rep. Long said. "So, for me to be named Vice Chairman—for a freshman, that's a pretty tall honor."

Hey, Billy, it looks like Peter King was looking for somebody who would do what he tells them to do.

Did you even read the bill Billy?

Others, when they weren't being visited by Sheriff Arnott and the F.B.I. took the time to read that bill and others Billy is co-sponsoring.

Bungalow Bill, who wrote the "Longiswrong" website and was one of several area bloggers who Arnott said were identified by Long and his office as "worrisome to Long", also tracks Billy's votes and bill sponsorships, writes of Billy's latest actions: "Do as Peter King Does...":

Congressman Peter King (R-NY) has introduced another piece of legislation, and to no surprise, Billy Long is once again the co-sponsor of the legislation. Now this is interesting since Billy Long said he was fed up with career politicians in Washington, because it's obvious now whatever Peter King does Billy Long follows.

So in two months, King has sponsored three high profile bills and Long's name has showed up on everyone of them, including the ones that grow government like the "If You See Something Say Something Act of 2011," which gives Janet Napolitano more power through a citizen spy network that you will soon see take form on video monitors at your local Walmart. As well, King and Long have been criticized for their collaboration to taken HAM radio frequencies and use them for emergency broadband internet WiFi frequencies, something that looks like it might be set up for the Internet kill switch. Now Long has put his name on King's Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Security Authorization Act of 2011, H.R. 901, proving once again, Long is hanging with the career politicians rather than offer anything fresh to DC culture

This morning's SNL story about HB 607 (Ham radio operators are upset over bill) has this comment from Long:

But when asked about the provision in the bill that would sell off the frequency used by amateur radio operators, Long said that was news to him. He said he co-sponsored the bill because King, the homeland security chairman, asked him to and because the bill is supported by many organizations that are committed to public safety, something he values.

Here is copy from a press release Long's office sent out on 01/27/2011. It can be read in its entirety on Long's campaign website.

On the Committee on Homeland Security, Long will serve as the Vice Chairman on the Subcommittee for Oversight, Investigations, and Management. Long will also serve on the Counterterrorism and Intelligence Subcommittee and the Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Security Technologies Subcommittee.

“Keeping America safe is the No. 1 priority of the government” Long said. “I look forward to protecting our shores and making sure those serving our country have the best tools at their disposal.”

“Billy will be a true asset to the Homeland Security Committee as we work to protect our homeland from terrorists who plot against our nation,” said Congressman Peter King, R-N.Y., chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security. “As a business owner, he understands the importance of sound management. His business experience and skills will be critical as we oversee the Department of Homeland Security to ensure its programs are efficient and cost-effective.”

Yep, Peter King picked Long because Long would make those tough votes! Nevermind actually reading the bill.

Long just might be out of touch with the people he represents. Watch how he tries to deflect the criticism with this statement he gave the SNL:

"I know ham radio operators are important, but this is the first I've heard that they're upset about it," the Springfield Republican said, adding that his office gets thousands of letters and e-mails each week.

Long appears to be justifying not knowing what was in the bill he is co-sponsoring because he gets "thousands of letters and e-mails each week."

I guarantee you that Long knows what time his breakfast fundraiser starts and who's attending and he knows to the penny how much money Mitt Romney's PAC has given Billy's re-election campaign.

I have sent Billy Long several emails and requests. He has never replied to me. He continues to block me and others critical of him from following him on Twitter.

Some think that the 'newness' has worn off and Billy Long is in over his head.

Maybe he'll decide he wants to spend more time with his family.

Meanwhile consider this viewpoint from pp:

The people who voted Billy into office fit into three main categories:

1. The voters who would say yes to the likes of useless politicians like Steve Helms, as long as there's a "R" beside the name

2. The people and groups with the money in Billy's district i.e. Coca Cola, Silver Dollar City etc who funnel $$$ into his campaign who are always looking at "the bigger picture", and of course Gannet SN-L with their transparent endorsement

3. And last, but not least, the bigots who knew all along what Billy's nebulous "Fed Up?" meant.

Still Fed UP? A repost from December 2011.

"Long has taken a low-profile path in his first year. He has joined the Republican Study Committee, a group of House conservatives, as well as the Songwriters Caucus and the Sportsmen's Caucus. But he declined an invitation to join the more high-profile Tea Party Caucus." Luckily he did have the time to join the "Cowboy Hat Caucus"

Low profile? You bet! Long is hard to find No live town hall meetings, screened press briefings, screens visitors to meetings, doesn't return phone calls. And in contrast to what Long told you, (The first-term lawmaker doesn't attend many news conferences or blast out a blizzard of press releases) he or someone in his office IS firing out press releases: http://long.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49§iontree=6,49

Long appears to be gearing up for a re-election campaign, using the theme of "I spent a year learning the ropes, you got to send be back up there because I know what to do now."

Last January, Billy Long gave to the F.B.I. the names of 6 bloggers who, in the words of the Greene County Sheriff Jim Arnott, "were worrisome to Long". Arnott and an F.B.I. agent started visiting the bloggers, all of whom had written posts critical of Long. http://blogs.riverfronttimes.com/dailyrft/2011/01/fbi_visits_missouri_blogger_wh.php and http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/01/now-that-billys-got-those-pesky.html

Last March, Long co-sponsored a bill because Peter King asked him to, Long later said he didn't know what was in the bill. When bloggers broke the story, the SN-L interviewed Long: "But when asked about the provision in the bill that would sell off the frequency used by amateur radio operators, Long said that was news to him. He said he co-sponsored the bill because King, the homeland security chairman, asked him to and because the bill is supported by many organizations that are committed to public safety, something he values."

Last April, "The National Auctioneer's Association called the office and they said, "We want you to proclaim the third Saturday in April, which a lot of states already have an auctioneer's day, a lot of cities already have an auctioneer's day. They say, "We'd like for you to 'drop that bill'." The NAA was a major contributor to Long's campaign, giving $5,000 in June 2010 and another $5,000 after Billy dropped the bill. http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/04/how-much-does-it-cost-to-drop-bill.html

The day after chastising fellow representatives who are just there for "window dressing", Long, following a series of meetings with PGA officials (Professional Golf Association), Long spoke on the House floor about the benefits of playing golf. http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/04/pga-salutes-billy-long-for-his-speech.html and http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/04/billy-long.html

Long has the time to have a 'series of meetings with PGA golf lobbyists and then bars members of the press from meeting with him at a press briefing in Springfield http://bungalowbillscw.blogspot.com/2011/04/member-of-missouri-press-association.html

Long has a reputation for 'tweeting' --- two most glaring examples were his tweet on the death of Amy Winehouse. Comparing what he thought was her addiction to drugs to Congress' addiction to spending money http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2018730/Amy-Winehouses-death-compared-US-debt-crisis-congressman-Billy-Long.html and his mocking of the NWS tornado warning tests that are broadcast on the radio. http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/05/joplin-congressman-bill-long-r-made-fun.html Long also made Keith Olbermann's "Worst Person in the World" list ..... twice. http://youtu.be/Ht3xYnAGgYU and http://youtu.be/I3Rugf19f10

Just yesterday he posted this tweet: auctnr1 Billy Long
"Congress won't be home for Christmas - a lot of our Troops won't be either - I think we can handle Christmas in DC - God Bless Our Troops" Long likes to wrap himself in a flag, up to the point of lacing up combat boots.

Then, there's that chicken business..... http://bungalowbillscw.blogspot.com/2011/12/update-on-usda-tyranny-of-dollarhite.html

But of course, Long is in his element when he explains to Sarah Steelman how you keep a free market free:

Last April, both Long and Senator McCaskill held meetings in MO7-- I attended both meetings and wrote about what I saw: http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/04/whats-difference-between-duck.html

As for Billy ---"Despite his lack of political experience and his outsider status, Long also seems comfortable in Washington. He's already made a half dozen or so good friends in the first year and seems to enjoy kibitzing with his colleagues (although he avoids Washington's night-time social circuit, preferring to go home for another sandwich and some rest.)" What Billy says he does and what Billy does are sometimes not the same: http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/04/long-spends-1333-in-campaign-funds-for.html and http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2011/06/million-dollar-billy.html

Our "smack talking auctioneer" who boasts of carrying around a dog-eared copy of the constitution in his pocket showed his true colors on the very first day the House was in session when he skipped the reading of the constitution to meet with a lobbyist.

It looks as if Long is getting himself in gear for a re-election campaign, It's an easy job, pays $14,500 a month, you only work two weeks a month and summer's off and great benefits. As Billy told you: "This job is not hard, It's not hard work. But it's long hours, and they keep you hopping all day."

Not too shabby of a quote from a guy who talks large and knows how to bluff.

If I were interviewing Billy, I would have asked him if he protested the fact that the congressional calendar has scheduled 145 days to not work in Washington. (Source: Congress At Your Fingertips, available in Long's office).

Then I would have asked what Long had done with all of this free time and what did his hand-picked group of 17 staffers do during that time.

Billy, being 'fed up' and all, I would have asked him to give specific details on how many times he met in his committee assignments and for copies of the speeches or his remarks or documents submitted outlining the specific cuts he recommended to downsize government and spending.

After all, he serves on the Homeland Security Committee and Transportation and Infrastructure Committees, both big spenders. Why hasn't the fence been built between usn's and them's. Did he take a trip since he had 145 days off to investigate?

I would have asked Billy about his support of the Ryan budget plan which, despite Long's assurances that "we've got to honor our committment to our seniors, effectively kills Medicare and Social Security as we know it.

Billy Long's salary is $14,500 a month, plus benefits. The average Social Security recipient in MO7 doesnt' receive anywhere near $14,500 a year with no benefits from Social Security. But Billy, despite his assuring us "I ain't afraid of nobody" has phalanx of young men surrounding him, protecting him from those who are 'fed up' with Billy Long.

I would have suggested to Billy that if you are going to stand in front of a group of your constituents and tell them not to believe what they read in the paper,(as he did at Experience Works in April) you should at least tell them why. You should be well versed enough in the budget you voted for to explain what the misconceptions are and what the effects will or might be.

I would also ask Billy if this article in today's SN-L "A year later, Long is still 'fed up'" is an example of one of those things we read in the newspaper that we shouldn't believe.

For another perspective on Billy Long ascension to political office, read Do what you can, have fun with what you are doing for as long as you can, and don't let that place screw you up too bad."

The party's over...

Four months after first opening its doors at 4512 Hampton Avenue, the headquarters of the St. Louis Tea Party is no longer. The Riverfront Times has more on this story.

In other news, three newly elected senators, who were elected under the tea party banner, elected not to join the Tea Party Caucus.

From the Washington Post

The decisions of Johnson and Sens. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and Patrick J. Toomey (R-Pa.) not to join the Tea Party Caucus underscore the fissures within the Republican Party as it seeks to build an effective governing coalition in Washington while satisfying an emboldened conservative base outside the Beltway. And for the tea party, the new Congress presents a test of whether the movement's activist momentum can continue within the rhythms and business of governing.

Locally, and all politics is local, local Congressman Billy (I was tea party when tea party wasn't cool)Long's tea party bonefides are wearing thin. Remember when he or his office turned in a list of names to Greene County Sheriff Arnott as being "worrisome to Long"? It gets better.

Long, who refused to confirm that he has a conceal and carry permit and whether or not he pack heat, is a newly appointed member of the House Homeland Security Committee.

He, and several others members of that committee(Blake* included) are co-sponsoring a bill that expands the current bill -- "If you see something, say something".

Remember it was Long who gave the names of bloggers who wrote posts critical of him were to law enforcement officials.

It seems that in Billy Long's world not agreeing with him is "suspicious activity" and needs to be investigated by the F.B.I.

Where's Billy today? He and 56 other representatives are at Heritage Foundation Conservative Members Retreat.

Oh, he seems amusing.

*I do not believe that Blake Farenthold and Billy Long are related other than by political ideology.

Why Are Billy Long And His Handlers Afraid Of Eckersley? Billy Long's Handlers Fed Up With Debates Agreed To By Billy Long's Handlers

A follow-up from Ozarksfirst.com:

Democrat Scott Eckersley and Libertarian Kevin Craig have accepted KOLR/KSFX's proposal for a 7th District debate. As of 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, our newsroom has not received official word from Republican Billy Long's campaign.

From firedupmissouri.com:

Billy Long's Handlers Fed Up With Debates Agreed To By Billy Long's Handlers

KOLR/KSFX has a fascinating story out of the 7th District about the Billy Long's willingness to debate debating -- but unwillingness to actually engaging in actual debates. Long apparently isn't even allowed to discuss the idea of debates with Scott Eckersley on camera -- consultant James Harris has kept those responsibilities to himself.*

Remember as you watch this clip that Billy Long's campaign agreed to the debates Harris now says are "some type of media gimmick"

DC: On a serious note, I mean, that,that is a major (unintelligible)

BL: This whole thing hasn't been serious?

DC: Well, but you diverted me earlier. But the president...

BL: How'd I do that? I didn't mean to...

DC: Well the president...

BL: I'm not that good. I'm new at this Dave, don't be saying I diverted you.

DC: The president, well you know what I was talking about earlier, the president's plan to bring home most of the troops...

BL: How would you like to debate me?

DC: I'm doing that right now.

BL: Yes, no you're not. How would you like to do it on the campaign. I hear it's gonna be fun.

DC: I want to I want to hear some of your auctionering voice.

BL: I think you get me up against some of these people that are prim and proper and their handlers have told them just what to say and then you get me out there and I think it's going to be very interesting.

*From Auctnr1's twitter: Had a great meeting today with Greene County Sheriff Jim Arnott - very interesting to hear what's going on and learn his greatest concerns about 4 hours ago via web There is no indication if during this meeting food was involved or whether lunch or snacks were served.

Blogger Sends Out Press Release Announcing The End Of His Blog

Jason Wert is quitting blogging. Now, I know, you are saying, he said the same thing last August, but he came back. This time he may be serious. The SN-L is reporting that Wert sent them an email saying he was ending his blog to focus on a new ministry. Wert said "he couldn’t go into detail about the ministry, but he called it “a ministry aimed at encouraging people to look at ways to serve others outside of their comfort zone in places like prisons or inner city missions.”

Jason, good luck in your new ministry. It is easy to be distracted when you can feel the Lord leading you in a new direction. Follow his lead. Delete your blog. Get it out of your life and embrace the new challenges you face!

Good Luck and Good Speed!

Sheriff Arnott....you better get ready, the Hound of heaven may have caught a scent!

DNA Results in Less Than Two Weeks: Your Crime Lab At Work

"Arkansas Man Charged in Branson Homicide" reads the headline in this mornings SNL.

This homicide has been reported on before, both in the SNL and here..

But what really caught my eye in this mornings SNL story was a quote from Branson Police Detective Sergeant Sean Barnwell: "The murder weapon has been recovered from Huey's property. The blood found on the knife has been verified as Lynn's blood through DNA testing by the Missouri State Highway Patrol Crime Lab."

Some guy gets murdered in Branson on July 19, 2007. Through good police work a suspect is arrested on July 22. 2007. The murder weapon, a hunting knife with blood on it, was recovered from the suspect's property (remember he was arrested July 22, 2007). The evidence was sent to the state crime lab for DNA testing. On August 1, 2007 the State Crime Lab DNA testing has been completed and the results returned to the Branson Police Department and the suspect is charged. Total time from crime to charges (including sending evidence to the State Crime Lab and receiving the DNA test results back in Branson): 2 weeks or 14 days.

Remember this:
Blunt and Missouri Highway Patrol officials said the $5.9 million lab, due to open in October 2008, would benefit the entire state by reducing the time it takes to analyze evidence for investigations and trials. The wait can now be as long as 10 months from the state's one full-service crime lab in Jefferson City.

And this:
Arnott says evidence has to compete for lab time with cases from around the state, including Kansas City and St. Louis. Right now the average time to get back a DNA test is one year.

And this:
Rowe said there have been cases in which authorities have waited for more than a year for DNA evidence to be processed and returned. He did not know how much having a lab in Springfield would quicken the process, but he said even if it is just a few months, it will make a difference.

And this: “The crime lab in Jefferson City is working overtime, and the backlog of cases demands more resources so that justice is not delayed,” said Rep. Bob Dixon, R-Springfield.

Tony, you were right: The crime lab that voters turned down, the same crime lab that legislators didn't fund, is really going to be built. Blunt stood under a shaded awning in front of the somewhat dilapidated yellow-brick warehouse on Tampa Street and repeated the phrase of the day — "justice delayed is justice denied" — in announcing that this new lab would improve law enforcement efforts statewide.

"If the facts don't fit the theory, change the facts." Albert Einstein

Cha-Cha-Cha-Changes.....But Not In Greene County

Changes---

Schoeller--no change--still Republican
Norr--no change--still Democrat
Dixon--no change--still Republican
Lampe--no change--still Democrat
Denison--no change--still Republican
Viebreck--no change--still Republican

The only change was Eric Burlison bested Nick Beatty but the seat remained a Republican seat.

County Races...of particular interest to me,,,,,
Kessinger beats Trippe, no change
Helms beats me,,,no change

Arnott beats Ramon, Sheriff's office stays Republican, no change
Yancy beats Fabro----position goes to Republican, change.

Based on the Kessinger/Trippe race, 36% of Greene County is democrat.

No independents broke to the Democrats....giving credence to the theory that independents are really Republicans

The SN-L endorsed Hagan, Ramon, Fabro, Lee, Lampe, Burlison, Bensch, Norr----50% win rate. Do they mean much?

Reports last night of more lost files in the clerk's office.

More Obfuscation from Billy Long

In addition to signing the Koch Brothers' Americans for Prosperity bus while it was in Springfield on a campaign tour (pictured above), Billy Long has signed a lot of things that take some explaining...




“For the last two years I’ve pressed the United States Postal Service for real numbers on cost-saving options,” said U.S. Rep. Billy Long, R-Springfield. “Dropping Saturday delivery was one of the first questions I asked about and was surprised to see how little they would save by ending Saturday delivery.”.

PLEASE! PLEASE! PLEASE! Is there anyone on staff with the SN-L who has institutional knowledge of Springfield, Greene County, SW MO and MO7?

Remember when David Stoeffler News-Leader wrote a couple of weeks ago that the SN-L would be watching out for us and even unveiled a little 'watchdog' journalism logo?

What happened David?, did you miss the boat on this? Or perhaps, because it was not originial content to the News-Leader you decided it wasn't news worthy?

To allow Billy Long to make a statement like above with no follow up questions is a pretty poor example of watch dog journalism.

Do you remember when Long added -- not signed, not read, not typed but WROTE in his own handwriting in response to the following statement:

"Privatization: I will support legislation aimed at protecting taxpayers by privatizing government sponsored corporations and enterprises such as THE UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE, the housing government -sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and the Tennessee Valley Authority."

Long hand wrote the following in the comment section under that statement:
"Entities like the USPS Fannie and Freddie are proven economic failures that operate at losses constantly. Service and profitability would be enhanced by privatization."

Long's crocodile tears and snake charmer words reek of insincerity, pandering and signify that his allegiance and votes are NOT to workers and constituents of MO---

Long has not given constituents any explanation of his statements or votes regarding this issue. As a matter of fact, he has not allowed critical constituents to question his votes, actions or statements on any issue. Why he turned into the FBI and Sheriff Arnott the names of people who dared to question his positions.

ah jeez.

Jim Lee

http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2012/01/you-can-catch-more-flies-with-honey.html

http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2012/01/var-gaq-gaq-gaq.html

http://bus-plunge.blogspot.com/2012/04/billy-long-straddles-fence-on.html