You are viewing this article in the AnnArbor.com archives. For the latest breaking news and updates in Ann Arbor and the surrounding area, see MLive.com/ann-arbor
Posted on Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 5 a.m.

'Angriest mayor' or 'tough nerd': AnnArbor.com announces gubernatorial endorsement

By Tony Dearing

A party label has rarely meant less than the one that hangs on Rick Snyder in the gubernatorial race.

His opponent, Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero, is a tried-and-true Democrat, steeped in his party’s policies and politics for nearly two decades. On the other hand, Snyder is accused even by some members of his own party of being a Republican in name only. And with some justification.

Snyder’s campaign platform is clearly shaped not by GOP orthodoxy, but rather by his own success as an entrepreneur and venture capitalist. In Michigan politics, that makes him not just an outsider, but an outlier. He entered the primary as a dark horse, and won against challengers of strong Republican pedigree. Now, if polls are to be believed, he is a heavy favorite to win in November.

So it appears that voters are ready for change as dramatic as Snyder is calling for. Our question is, why shouldn’t they be? What does Michigan possibly have to lose?

We have the nation’s second-highest unemployment rate. Last year, we lost 230,000 jobs, the highest annual job loss in the 53 years that data has been collected. Our poverty rate in 2009 was 14 percent, the highest in 15 years. Last year brought record home foreclosures as well.

Candidate profiles

Learn about the background of the candidates and see where they stand on the issues:

Snyder’s campaign has been based on diversifying Michigan’s economy and making it competitive globally, while reforming taxes, making state government more efficient and responsive and improving our schools. Possessing no political background, he talks instead about his experience as president and chief operating officer for Gateway, and his more recent involvement in economic development in Ann Arbor and in Michigan, and successful efforts to raise venture capital to support job development here.

To hear some of the ways that Snyder has been attacked over his business background is to understand how far removed Michigan has become from what made it an economic powerhouse. Our great prosperity of the 20th Century was created through entrepreneurship. But that success led to complacency, and overreliance on one industry that lost its ability to compete globally.

Our fall from economic might has been painful, and the prescription for becoming competitive again is painful as well. In talking about the changes he’d make, Snyder has been pragmatic and business-like, but his message is that Lansing must behave very differently, and so it must.

Bernero, running as an underdog, has been scrappy. To his credit, his record as mayor in Lansing is admirable. Having to run a city, he grasps the need for reducing the benefit costs for public employees, and encouraging cost-saving consolidation by local governments and school districts - positions Snyder takes as well.

But Bernero’s economic plan for the state strikes us as backward looking, focusing on trying to re-establish manufacturing jobs in Michigan by recruiting new companies to come here. Manufacturing still has a place in Michigan’s future, but as part of a more diversified economy. We also find it telling that while Bernero has put manufacturing at the core of his economic plan, the Michigan Manufacturers Association has endorsed Snyder. That says something about whose economic plan the manufacturers of this state see as more promising for creating jobs in the future.


p10_snyder_rick.jpg

Rick Snyder

Snyder’s approach doesn’t call on the state to try to pick winners and losers. As a venture capitalist, he knows how hard that is. Instead, he seeks to create an economic climate in Michigan that fosters entrepreneurship, risk-taking, technology transfer and locally grown businesses. Some businesses that start here will eventually move somewhere else. But others will stay, and some that might have started elsewhere will start here instead. Some businesses here will seek global markets and open overseas operations. To see that as bad, or to try to prevent it, is to wish for a world that no longer exists.

Whatever lifts Michigan out of its economic distress, it won’t be hand-wringing, it won’t be politics as usual, and it won’t be the paralysis and excessive partisanship that has plagued Lansing. Someone has to drag this state and its politics kicking and screaming into the 21st Century.

We’ve had a chance to observe Snyder since the beginning of the primary season. We’re impressed how he’s grown as a candidate, and how he’s stuck to the core concepts of his campaign. We don’t think he has all the answers - or even claims to have all the answers. But in this election, we do think he offers the kind of change that Michigan is ready for, and that Michigan needs. We endorse Rick Snyder for governor in November.

Read AnnArbor.com's choices for the 52nd House District and 15th Congressional District seats here.

Editor’s note: The three community members who serve on our Editorial Board - David Mielke, Bob Guenzel and Marsha Chamberlin - did not participate in the endorsement interviews and were not involved in this endorsement decision.

Comments

John Q

Wed, Oct 27, 2010 : 1:52 p.m.

Dan H, thanks for giving us the irony of someone like yourself demanding that everyone be treated as an individual and then turning around and using the comments of one person to smear an entire group of people. I'm sure you'll say "the liberals do the same thing - look at Sarah Palin!" But the liberals aren't running around like yourself tooting the horn for the primacy of the individual over the group or the community. Way to undercut your own position.

RayA2

Wed, Oct 27, 2010 : 12:02 p.m.

I wish the Republicans commenting on this article had more than a grade school understanding of economics. The real world says that the market does not function perfectly as a decision maker because the market is composed of humans who's own self interest drives them to greatly distort market allocations. Ask corporate governance expert Nell Minnow. When directors of a company for example see that by voting to pay their company's CEO an exorbitant sum will greatly enhance their own compensation, the market is not based on allocation to the most efficient. It is based on allocation to the most narcisitic, anti-social pigs. When the Chinese central planners manipulate internal pricing and infuse tax payer money to support otherwise failing industries, they destroy their U.S. manufacturing competition. Understanding these examples requires more than a superficial understanding of supply and demand. Maybe that is why the Republican leadership continually fights spending for education and would like us all to learn only how to operate oil refinery equipment.

Ray D. Aider

Wed, Oct 27, 2010 : 3:03 a.m.

I can honestly say that I am pleasantly surprised by A2dotcom's endorsement of Rick Snyder...I had you guys figured all wrong. I do think he will do a better job than Bernero. He will have critics but let's hope that positive fruit will benefit our State. I had to listen and think through his stance considering the pros and cons of the Hollywood Film Industry Tax breaks...and while it sounds kinda glamorous to have movies made in our State, if the bottom line actually suffers as a result, one has to ask if it's really worth it....(I was really excited when my daughter was hired to give Hilary Swank a massage, for instance) but never really thought about how the film industry is actually benefiting the State in the big picture. (pun intended). Let's wait and see how Mr. Snyder performs...and he is not absolutely set on axing the film industry tax deals but maybe he will have some really good ideas to promote industry and lower the unemployment rate here. We'll see.....because it's looks like he will be our next Governor.

Dan H

Tue, Oct 26, 2010 : 7:13 p.m.

Michigan Face, Nice try in making the liberals and democrats seem like true patriots. Talk about spin. First, try scrolling up and seeing one of your true believers, True Fan, who says he can't wait till after Nov 2nd so he can call Rick a "failed leader." Do you have selective memory when you read the comments or is it just your cognitive bias looking for things you disagree with and glossing over the comments you agree with? Moreover, your very argument is flawed. If a principle or politician is morally bankrupt, it or she/he should be condemned. The ends do not justify the means. Morality is always in issue in politics--or at least it should be for any thinking man--and not just expediency. For instance, if wealth redistribution worked (it doesn't, but let's just say that it did work) and it made us more prosperous overall, it should still be condemned on moral grounds. Someone is having the fruits of their labor stolen via force and given to others. So, spare me the patriotic talk about how we're all in the same boat and the liberals and Democrats are rooting for America whereas the other party or people aren't.

michigan face

Tue, Oct 26, 2010 : 1:57 p.m.

Whatever the outcome on Nov. 2nd - the so-called "liberals" and Democrats would not be boastful and self-righteous like these who comment that they cannot wait to see our downfall on Nov. 3rd. This is a truly unAmerican stance that involves bigotry and disrepect for the rights and opinions of all. We are all in this boat together. Don't forget the importance of the Vote for Supreme Court - Denise Morris and Davis will stand up for basic civil rights and will be responsible when it comes to rezoning congressional districts. Vote Virg for a Governor who understands Michigan's needs and will do something to help us all get through these hard times - Denise and Davis on the nonpartisan ballot - Warren, Irwin and Benson too!

Steve Borgsdorf

Tue, Oct 26, 2010 : 12:50 p.m.

Tony, get a yard sign. Focus on facts and reporting, and please hold off on having an opinion section complete with political endorsements until you have a substantive news organization.

Ross

Tue, Oct 26, 2010 : 11:38 a.m.

While I'm not a big fan of Virg.... How can anyone POSSIBLY be willing to vote for a man who will not agree to debate?!?!? He came in to the race with a huge lead simply by being republican at a time when the generally un-informed public has grown to hate democrats, simply because they are ones holding the current pile of dogsh*t that is our national economy. As if the last 1.5 years are the only input to our current situation. Then this man refuses to have simple debates to discuss issues... the one debate they had was a total joke. Both men said "jobs" several dozen times, not one of them laid out a clear plan, with evidence or supporting facts, about an ACTUAL PLAN to create them. At LEAST Virg wanted to continue discussing the situation... it takes at least 3 debates to get into the meat of the discussion anyway, and separate the facts from the talking points. Snyder knows this and smartly avoided having further debates. Taking advantage of dark times to ride a wave of ignorance right into office. Huzzah - good luck Rick. Just please don't cut taxes for the rich folks and ignore the rest of us....

robyn

Tue, Oct 26, 2010 : 10:09 a.m.

I was a bit surprised at the endorsement, I've always viewed annarbor.com as having a more 'liberal' leaning agenda. I am in agreement with their choice; I do not get the impression that they chose to endorse Snyder without weighing out the pros and cons between both candidates. I do find it a bit humorous that once a person - or in this case a 'news paper' - endorses a particular candidate they are immediately labeled by those opposing that endorsement as either a Republican (neo-con, capitalist, conservative, Bible thumper, hate monger, intolerant...) or a Democrat (liberal, tax and spend, socialist, communist, big government, intolerant...). As if there is some stigma attached to who we choose to vote for and our reasons why. Instead of attacking annarbor.com for endorsing Snyder, why not offer valid reasons as to why you don't support their endorsement? The one thing that I have been so impressed with during this election cycle has been the thoughful exchange of information about candidates between my neighbors and co-workers. Despite what the media has turned this election into - people are actually looking for more information - make that more SUBSTANCIAL information - about candidates before they make their choice about who they plan to vote for. As for Snyder being anti-choice and anti-gay... In this day and age, NORMAL people realize that others can and do have personal ideals that can be based upon religion or whatever core values they use to determine what their personal beliefs are. That said - most NORMAL people also realize that others, just because they hold a specific belief, do not impose those beliefs upon everyone else or try to force others to share that same belief. A person can be pro-life and accept the fact that not everyone holds the same belief about abortion - while they may not accept it in THEIR life personally, they are not going around telling others that they can't accept it either. To even insinuate something like that is just as ignorant as saying gay people want to force EVERYONE else to be gay because homosexuality is acceptable to them. You know that is simply not true, so please stop using that dull sword to fight your battles.

Dan H

Tue, Oct 26, 2010 : 8:10 a.m.

John Q, Nowhere did I also say that "Rick Snyder can change the system." A vote for one candidate over the other is not nearly the same thing as saying I think Rick is going to turn this entire mess around by himself. It's simply a vote that here is a guy who is extremely capable. The kind of person who as a private citizen has generated a tremendous amount of wealth for himself (that's a good thing, despite what the economically clueless say); for Michigan; and for the world at large (if some of the jobs went overseas, so be it. Welcome to the 21st century, folks). Here is a guy who understands numbers because you can't grow companies unless you do. And correct me if I'm wrong, but one of the biggest issues saying not only our Federal Government but the States is budget deficits. Knowing how to maximize what resources you have, treating tax paying citizens akin to customers and not sheep to the fleeced, and realizing that you can't pay for every government boondoggle into perpetuity is very important. My position is that a private citizen who has shown himself highly capable in this sense through his actions is much preferable to a career politican who never had to prove his mettle in the free market. That's a far cry from saying I think Rick is going to turn the whole thing around. I guarantee you that Virg will turn it around even less. He'll continue to plunge us into the quagmire that Michigan has been headed. In reality, I see the entire US as in big trouble due to the policies of the Federal Government and the Federal Reserve. I do not care to get into those arguments here because they are somewhat off topic. Suffice it to say, my view is that the Federal Government and the Federal Reserve are going to plunge us into a second Great Depression, and there's nothing Rick nor Virg can do about that. However, out of those two contenders, it's an absolute no brainer who is better for Michigan from a general sense. Of course, if someone is say, a Union employee, then of course they are going to vote for Virg. They are voting for their own self interest at the expense of others and to avoid the competitive pressures of the free market. I have little respect for such people and I have a right to express that when I pull for Rick come Nov.

Milton Shift

Tue, Oct 26, 2010 : 2:51 a.m.

$15 an hour working at a GM plant isn't exactly a high wage. Try raising a family on that!

John Q

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 10:29 p.m.

"You automatically assume I am for all Republicans and point out Republicans in the State House as if that proves anything or that I necessarily agree with them just because they are Republicans." Dan H., you've completely missed the point. I wasn't making any assumptions about what party you do or do not support. I was making the point that you and Tony have a belief that a governor by him or herself can set tax policy or economic development policy or any other significant state policy. That's simply not the case. It doesn't matter a bit if Rick doesn't believe in picking winners or losers if the state legislature doesn't go along with his view of the tax system. The point you missed is that it took politicians from both parties to get us to the point we are today. Rick Snyder by himself can't change the system. Are there 100+ like-minded people who are going to be joining him in Lansing in the State House and State Senate? Not from anything I've read about the candidates running for office. Without like minded people voting to move his proposals forward, they'll go nowhere fast. What makes you think the system is going to function in any way differently when Snyder is the only change being made to the system, assuming he gets elected?

Dan H

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 8:27 p.m.

True Fan, Try reading my comments. You can't even place them in context when I clearly did. Nowhere did I say, for example, that "pro-gay" people are insensible, nor do I say pro-God people are as well. I think I clearly framed this in the context of single principle issues that for some reason some people let dictate their candidate choice...that is, on that one issue alone. So, let me be very clear since you seem to relish taking my comments out of context. If someone happens to be Gay, and believes Rick's personal position is that being Gay is, say, unnatural...or that marriage should be reserved between a man and a woman...then I think that person is being insensible if they will vote exclusively on that one issue. Just like I think it's insensible if someone does or doesn't vote for a candidate just based on that candidate's view of abortion. In reality, I have zero problem with Gay people. I PERSONALLY think being Gay, in the vast majority of cases, is NOT a choice...it's genetically determined as opposed to many on the religious right who think it's a sin and a choice. In short, I do not appreciate the hard line religious right elements of the Republican party. The Bill O Reilly's and Sean Hannities of the world are a huge turn off to me, and garner little of my respect. However, there is a lot of nuance to this argument that I don't care to get into here. Just stop taking my comments out of context when I clearly framed them. The larger point here is the overarching concern among voters is the economy, and rightly so. You may want to briefly reacquaint yourself with Maslow's hierarchy. The reality is, is that without basic shelter and the ability to earn a living and provide for oneself and one's family, all the other issues almost become moot because, as Maslow identified, it is very difficult to achieve or enjoy those elements higher on the hierarchy if one is constantly concerned about basic necessities and survival itself. In reality, someone who doesn't vote for Rick because he's say, anti-abortion is not being very reasonable. Whether we agree with it or not, that matter has been decided Federally for the time being and there's not much Rick is going to be able to do about that. It's effectively irrelevant. Such people are voting on emotion, not rationally. Again, that's their choice. End of discussion with you. I can't even have a tit for tat with you without your twisted my words around constantly and trying to spin them into something they clearly are not.

Dan H

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 8:13 p.m.

John Q, Your response to my post is a clear example of what is wrong with people's perspectives and thinking about issues such as the one we're discussing. You automatically assume I am for all Republicans and point out Republicans in the State House as if that proves anything or that I necessarily agree with them just because they are Republicans. In reality, I have little respect for most Republicans. If Rick wasn't running in this election, I would have not voted at all. The other two Republicans running were status quo. Most Republicans abuse their positions in political office and the majority of them don't have real world business experience....or bootstrapped and started businesses from scratch. The worst of them talk about the glories of free markets, but then get into office and govern like democrats, interfering in the market constantly and picking winners and losers. I don't view Rick as a typical Republican. I think he is more libertarian than Republican. But he knows he has to run as a Republican to be a viable contender. Just like Ron Paul from Texas is and runs as a Republican even though he is a Libertarian. And just like Peter Schiff ran for Senate in CT as a Republican even though he's a libertarian.

True_Wolverine_Fan

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 5:34 p.m.

@Tony "A comment was removed because of a personal attack on another commenter. We welcome vigorous debate, but terms like "idiot'' or "fool'' or "moron'' or "ignorant,'' when directed at another commenter, violate our conversation guidelines and will be removed." What about Dan's comment... he calls pro-gay, pro-life and pro-God people insensible. Where is the fair moderation?

YpsiChick

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 3:34 p.m.

PersonX stated my thoughts perfectly. I couldn't agree more.

Milton Shift

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 3:09 p.m.

@Basic Bob: I agree the unions are corrupt and don't serve the workers anymore. Many of them have never worked in the plants; they've become a bureaucratic caste of their own. By owning so many shares in GM their interests have in fact become opposed to those of the workers they are paid to fight for. Unfortunately, I do not believe globalization can be stopped. The forces at work are far more powerful than that of the United States. Were a serious attempt to be made at reversing the trends of the last two decades, we would witness devastating capital flight, trade wars, and possibly even a global outbreak of war on a scale unseen since WWII. The only way out is for democracy to be extended to the economy. To this end, we must stand in solidarity with workers overseas and not allow ourselves to be divided, or the "race to the bottom" for wages will never be stopped.

gild

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 2:55 p.m.

@Dan Freidus: Since you brought up the stresses on our K-12 education system, how about talking about how many of those stresses are caused by the unbending extremism and greed of the Michigan Education Association? We need to put KIDS first. Bernero will put the UNION first, and kids second.

John Q

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 2:47 p.m.

Dan H, when you say "Michigan has been under the control of rabid, anti-business friendly government politicians for effectively the past decade." Are you telling us that the Republicans who controlled the State House for most of Granholm's two terms and the State Senate for all of Granholm's two terms, and many years before that, are rabidly anti-business? That must be what you mean because nothing has gone across the Governor's desk without some level of Republican support for the past 8 years. Maybe you and Tony believe that state government is ruled by a dictator-Governor who is all powerful and can enact whatever agenda he or she wants. But that's not how the real world of politics works in Lansing.

True_Wolverine_Fan

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 2:27 p.m.

@Seasons I completely agree! I am headed out to a meeting now. Have a good day guys!

True_Wolverine_Fan

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 2:26 p.m.

@Dan The economy is a single issue. You're voting for who you think will best affect the economy of the region. If your issue is the economy - and that's all you care to vote on - then you're voting on a single issue. By your definition, gay rights isn't a single issue either. It's multifaceted as well. Gay adoption? Gay marriage or domestic partnerships? Employment Nondiscrimination Act? Gays in the military? Taking a step back - like I did with the economy - you can see that this really is a single issue. Pro-gay Anti-gay. The economy can be looked at in this way too: Pro-business Anti-business. Either way, it's a single issue. I just don't think people can vote on one issue while disregarding everything else. One issue can be more important to you, but you can't vote on JUST one issue. You must take everything into account.

Ram

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 2:25 p.m.

uawisok: I really think you are just making those numbers up. I read a piece in the NY Times this month about how Texas has had the greatest growth in jobs since 2000 of all states in the US...

seasons

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 2:22 p.m.

I don't believe that Rick is qualified to be the Governor of our state. His background is business, his religious beliefs are being presented as qualifications, he has bought himself name recognition and he has overall refused to engage in debates of substance. Government isn't a business model; perhaps it should be, but it isn't. Government, when effective, is broad based in its viewpoints, is encompassing of all matters pertinent to the electorate and success of the state at large. There has been considerable misinformation circulated about Michigan's economic environment which is really a disservice to Michigan voters. Rick does not appear to be willing to engage in dialogues about matters pertinent to our State and one wonders if this would also be the case if he should be elected.

Dan H

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 2:16 p.m.

True, The economy isn't a "single" issue. The economy is a massive, multi-faceted issue. On the other hand, voting for one candidate simply because they are "pro-abortion" or "anti-abortion" is an extremely provincial position. Anyone who votes along such provincial, narrow views isn't someone I care to reach. Of course, it's their prerogative how they want to cast their vote, however under-informed it may be.

Dan H

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 1:54 p.m.

This an Open Letter to All Rational/Reasonable/Thinking Adults who may be on the sidelines. It's a basic appeal to those who are not blinded by partisan politics or only vote along party lines no matter what. I reckon there must be many of you. This is going out to the people who have enough sense to see the obvious things like: businesses and entrepreneurs are what makes the economy grow, even if you happen to believe that politicians play a crucial role in regulating them. If your vote is swayed on single principles, then this is not for you. For example, if you are pro-Gay, whatever that even means, and view Rick as Anti-Gay, whatever that even means, as some here do, then obviously this appeal isn't for you. If you think politicians and governments are what creates wealth, then this isn't for you. If you are pro-God, pro-Life, and think the 10 Commandments should be the law of the land, then this isn't for you since you're just going to vote Republican no matter what. This is for the sensible people, wherever they may be. Consider that since The Great Recession, as it is commonly called now, began, half of the jobs lost in the United States were lost in Michigan. That is amazing and astounding. Michigan has been under the control of rabid, anti-business friendly government politicians for effectively the past decade. Half of the NEW jobs created in the United States by the way were created in Texas, not exactly a liberal state. Now, I'm not saying I would want to move to Texas. For one, it's just too hot for my liking, but the facts are unavoidable. It's a pro-business friendly state. Think about that for a moment. Half the jobs in the entire country, lost right here in one state. Half of them gained/created, in just one state. Do you think there's no causation behind that? Is that just random noise? How about Detroit. Do you believe Detroit suffered inexorable decline into one huge ghetto because: A) Unions weren't big and influential enough? B) Because it didn't have enough red tape and regulatory hurdles for businesses to overcome? C) Because business savvy politicians ran it... or "enlightened," non profit, non business background politicians ran it? D) Because not enough government programs were instituted there to lift it out of poverty? More generally, if you are one of the few, fortunate people who are employed in Michigan, do you believe your job is a right...or more likely a privilege that you are thankful for? When you hear organizations that gather the best run businesses (most of them SMALL businesses) like the Chamber of Commerces endorsing Rick do you think none of them know what they are talking about when it comes to the hurdles business people face to just stay alive, let alone thrive enough to hire new employees? Or do you reckon that politicians who have never started, grown, or run a business know more than the businesses themselves about what is needed for them to grow and hire new people? Does this even make sense? If so, ask yourself how. In economics and the markets, there is a famous saying. It simply states: capital is a coward. What that means is capital flees to where it is best treated. This is why America became such a powerful force in the world. Why we took over the British pound sterling to have the world's reserve currency. Why when we were a creditor nation, we became the richest nation in history. Capital came here because it was treated well. The same happens for states because competition is a fact of life. Doesn't it simply make sense that capital has been fleeing the state of Michigan for greener pastures (states like Texas) that treat it better? Do you believe that businesses (and people) will act in their best interest? Or do you think that Darwin was just plain wrong about everything, humans and animals alike. Do you ever wonder why even the vast majority of liberal graduates from institutions like the University of Michigan almost immediately flee the state for greener pastures upon graduation? (I.e., acting in their own best interest when they accuse others of being selfish for doing so)? When you were single did you ever date someone or get involved in a relationship just because you felt "bad" for the other person even if you had no interest in them? If not, then I submit you acted in your self interest, just like people are wired to do, and just like any normal and sane business will do if it easily could. Businesses, simply, will go where they are treated the best. And so they have: far and fast away from this great state of Michigan. Do you think self-interest precludes charity or being nice? There is nothing mutually exclusive about being charitable to one's fellow man while watching out for one's own self interest or that of one's family or business. In conclusion, in light of where the state of Michigan has gone and what Detroit has become, do you think we are on the right path? If you are an independent, choose wisely come Nov. You will be the ones who tip the scales and set the course of our collective futures as a state going forward. Believe me, businesses are watching.

Killroy

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 1:43 p.m.

Snyder is a shadowy character hiding behind catch phrases and money. I also, frankly, don't;like his ultra-conservative views; it doesn't make sense given that he says he is here to rescue the citizens of Michigan. What, only white, rich heteros that like golf? Ricky has no business in Michigan politics.

True_Wolverine_Fan

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 1 p.m.

Those of you criticizing the Left fail to understand that the Left will do exactly what the Right did while the Left were in charge... they will stand in the way of any change the Governor wants and just vote 'no' to his agenda. Republicans have been doing it for years, and it's about time Democrats stole that play right out of your playbook. I hope you enjoy getting nothing accomplished and being called failed leaders and ineffective partisans. Enjoy your victory on Nov 2nd... I'll enjoy the days that follow;-)

Basic Bob

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 12:43 p.m.

@Milton: "Also, I don't think your union grandfathers would be proud to see you clamoring, so simple mindedly, for the destruction of the prosperity they fought for." They did not fight, they worked. And I am not suggesting we destroy the prosperity, far from it. They believed as I do, that we should support ourselves by hard work and buying products which directly benefit US companies and workers. No brand "T" cars for me, or shopping at store "W". Management, unions, and politicians have collaborated in the destruction of our prosperity by producing only rhetoric instead of value. You are right, this does not hurt the rich or the politically well-connected. The hard line of organized labor plays right into the hands of the greedy capitalists. It becomes an excuse to move more jobs overseas, to Mexico, and to right-to-work states. The only antidote is for US workers to out-compete the Mexicans and the Chinese, and by their own choice, stop buying all the unnecessary foreign goods.

Milton Shift

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 12:10 p.m.

"The problem with the ballot box is that we are willing to accept the two party system, when Republicans and Democrats are two sides of the same coin. That coin being big government." Yup, we have a bureaucracy when we need a democracy.

uawisok

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 11:53 a.m.

The top 10 poorest States in the Union which are all south of the Mason/Dixon have been in republican control since 1964 when the Civil Rights act was made law of the land. So based on 46 years of governing and they are still the poorest why would I vote Republican? They are all also so called "right to work states", I would think if Republican doctrine works so well why are they soooo poor?? Think electorate and allow history to help you figure things out.

David Briegel

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 11:49 a.m.

Superficial is probably the best description of Snyder. I have said all along that all he has to do is show up. Substance is not required. As for his "moderate-ness", he chose as far right an extremist as possible for his Lt Gov. That was the signal to the radical, anti-social conservative base! Seriously, Tony, how has he grown as a candidate?

Ram

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 11:39 a.m.

Milton: While thats true, we have measures to stop such trends. If we wish to end Corporatism or Globalization, we have the ballot box to do so. The problem with the ballot box is that we are willing to accept the two party system, when Republicans and Democrats are two sides of the same coin. That coin being big government.

Top Cat

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 10:50 a.m.

I cannot wait to see how indignant and outraged The Left will be on November 3 when they get their clocks cleaned on November 2.

Derrick

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 10:35 a.m.

Why is it the Ann Arbor news always endorses republicans? I'm not surprised at all, however I couldn't care less about what other people or groups think. Rick Snyder is a bad choice, he ran Gateway into the ground just like he'll do with Michigan by finishing what Engler started. Not to mention he is anti gay, anti union, anti progressive, anti liberal, and anti middle class. Snyder will not be getting my vote

Dan Freidus

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 10:09 a.m.

The Ann Arbor news editorials often showed it to be significantly to the right of the majority of its readers. This endorsement shows that AnnArbor.com continues this. But what upsets me more is that the endorsement is almost as superficial as Snyder's ads. Of course, we don't know much more than what we saw in the ads since he only agreed to a single debate. If he had a plan he should have been glad to have the free air time to let voters know more about it. AnnArbor.com endorses Snyder saying "What does Michigan possibly have to lose?" Quite simply, a whole lot. Our K-12 system is stressed due to a decade of cutting (increases smaller than the increased cost of operating our schools are cuts in real terms). Many industries are in tough times so, while unemployment is already high it could go higher. Our tax system is antiquated and inadequate. We are in a distinct minority of states by having a flat tax. Snyder proposes tax cuts but has no real plan for dealing with the reduced state revenue that would result. Fiscally, he would hand money to many wealthy residents and cut services to everyone. His recovery would be for the top 5% at the expense of everyone else. Socially, he's towing the right-wing Republican line. What he personally believes, I can't tell. But he's anti-choice and supports discrimination based on sexual orientation (that's what opposition to gay marriage is). So fiscally and socially, AnnArrbor.com we have a lot to lose. Bernero will have a tough job as governor, anyone would right now. whjile I already knew I was voting for him, it's sad to see that AnnArbor.com is out of touch enough with its readers and Michigan to support Snyder.

Milton Shift

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 10:08 a.m.

@Basic Bob: Capitalism unleashed the productive forces on a scale never before seen, and it has left us ever since with the potential for incredible prosperity. It was once progressive (although always undemocratic and brutal). However, the social relations of capitalism are obsolete and are holding us back. While the productive forces remain under the dictates of the ruling class, we will be living paycheck to paycheck, our livelihood subject to their whims, foreign countries will be bombed to bits every day and the ever present threat of nuclear war will remain. It is spectacularly wasteful of labor and resources, and a more inefficient system could hardly be conceived. We need democracy not only in the sphere of politics, but economics as well, if this is ever to end. Also, I don't think your union grandfathers would be proud to see you clamoring, so simple mindedly, for the destruction of the prosperity they fought for. @Ram: capitalism inevitably leads to corporatism. It is as unstoppable as globalization - an objective development, like the unfolding of a kernel of corn.

Scylding

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 9:56 a.m.

Nice job, Tony! But I have to say, you could have knocked me over with a feather that A2.com would allow this exhilirating heterodoxy. Truly encouraging! I chuckle with grim satisfaction to see the guard dog libs like Mitch and Briegle freaking out that they can't have a 100% liberal publication/portal all to themselves. Do you guys really think that that would be healthy? More evidence that "Liberal tolerance" is truly an oxymoron. You guys are the predictable gift that keeps on giving all year long. (As if Mitch would actually leave and never come back. Riiiiight...)

Nathaniel Borenstein

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 9:29 a.m.

I wouldn't have believed it just a few months ago, but OutsourcedU is probably right on target when he wrote "WOW... Now I understand why my comment on the HandyLab sale was removed from this site. I read the terms of posting here and found no violation. I simply stated my opinion nothing more nothing less." I too had a post taken down for being mildly critical of Mr. Snyder. I assumed at the time that it was just a matter of extreme sensitivity towards possible impoliteness, but it now seems like a trend. Ann Arbor.com seems to want to be a platform for its favored candidates rather than a genuinely impartial media source. I was really excited when annarbor.com was born -- I thought it was a novel and daring experiment in the future of journalism, not a slightly less abrasive and more tech-savvy version of Fox News. What a disappointment. I won't word my feelings any more strongly that that because I don't want to give you any excuse to censor this post, though I expect you will anyway. I would try once again to explain why my personal experience in his industry makes me think Mr. Snyder is a terrible, terrible choice for governor, but I have better things to do with my time than waste it writing something I know you will simply censor. I'd stand a better chance arguing with Fox News. -- Nathaniel Borenstein, a.k.a. "Former User of AnnArbor.com.

rayjay

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 9:27 a.m.

I guess people from a one party town expect a one party local news source.

John Q

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 9:12 a.m.

Does Tony or any of his editorial staff understand the basic workings of state government? The Governor by him or herself can't reform Michigan's tax system or the funding for schools or universities. It's great that Snyder doesn't believe in trying to "pick winners and losers". But the MBT and the SBT before it didn't become a law focused on picking winners and losers because Jennifer Granholm made it that way. It was state legislators of both parties who have pushed the exemptions and credits for favored industries that have turned those taxes into a complicated mess of favoritism. Rick Snyder isn't being followed to Lansing by fellow thinkers. Instead, it's the usual band of pro-corporate business Republicans going who are going to push the agendas of various special interest groups including those in the business community. Is Rick Snyder going to have the guts to veto bad legislation or to fight for a tax code that resembles a system he claims he want? There's no sign that Synder even comprehends what he's facing if he gets to Lansing and it's clear that AnnArborDotCom doesn't get it either.

blahblahblah

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 8:58 a.m.

Just wait it will only be a matter of time before the yard signs and bumper stickers start popping up again. "Impeach" this and "Stop" that. Funny how the stop war signs kinda disappeared around town. I guess our war under the Democratic president is a "kinder gentler" war then the one under the Republican president. Long live our freedom of speech and our ability to agree to disagree with each other's point of view!

Ram

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 8:42 a.m.

Milton Shift: I think it is Corporatism that upsets you, not Capitalism. Check out this interview with Michael Moore http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1733261710?bclid=43205421001&bctid=43610564001

JSA

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 8:14 a.m.

It is quite amusing to watch the ultra liberal commenters being so engraged. Next Tuesday reality is going to come crashing in on them when Snyder is elected and Bernero starts looking for a job at Burger King.

A2frank

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 8:11 a.m.

What a waste of time this site has become, you may have well as launched a write-in campaign for Glen Beck! This City deserves a less biased local news site, not one that tries to perpetuate white male privilege. Goodbye annarbor.com!

stunhsif

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 8 a.m.

I would love to vote for the Libertarian candidate but will vote for Snyder to try and make certain Virg does not get elected. I am amazed and pleasantly suprised A2.com supports Rick Snyder. Good call A2.com Good Day No Luck Needed

Stephenb1707

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 7:14 a.m.

I would have lost all faith in the AA News if they would not have backed Rick. He is a breath of fresh air. Your article does point out one important point worth revisiting. "Rick does not follow fellow GOP thinking". I wish all of our legislator's would follow Rick's path and do what is important for the people and the state first and their party second. All career politicians think more of their parties than the families they are suppose to represent. Rick, keep going down the path you are on. It is a winner for all.

Basic Bob

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 6:53 a.m.

@Milton Shift: "The idea that free market fundamentalism can lead to good things is absurd, idealist, and completely ignorant of all world affairs and history." Yes, the Industrial Revolution was a huge mistake. Things were much better when we had to make our own candles and the vast majority of people in the world were illiterate. Things were much better before antibiotics, the internal combustion engine, and electricity.

Steve Pepple

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 6:29 a.m.

A comment that violated our conversation guidelines was removed. Please refrain from personally attacking other commenters.

Art Holland

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 6:16 a.m.

Looks like another victory for a pro-business Republican. Why is it that people don't remember that when a pro-business guy from either party, but especially Republicans, gets in office, the middle class takes a hit regardless of his campaign promises. Their focus is on modifying the law so that business owners can make more money. This rarely translates to more money for the middle class. Don't believe me? Look up the real incomes for the middle class since Reagan was in office. It has declined and is now declining at a faster rate. So, Rick Snyder wil probably be the next governor of Michigan, but the people that live here won't see an appreciable change in their lives while he is in office.

Milton Shift

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 1:41 a.m.

Dan H, the notion that capitalism is defined by the corruption we see today is accurate. It is doomed to take this road every time - if it wasn't, why has it been this way in almost every country in the world for the last 100 years? The idea that free market fundamentalism can lead to good things is absurd, idealist, and completely ignorant of all world affairs and history.

Ram

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 12:44 a.m.

Thanks for the information on Snyder's social policy. Like I said, Snyder doesn't seem too concerned either way - social issues are best decided in the legislature (Well, they are best decided personally, but government rarely lets that happen). Talk to the legislature and I don't think Snyder will put up a fight with their decisions...

Ram

Mon, Oct 25, 2010 : 12:42 a.m.

But they wouldn't be able to be giving out all those mortgage loans if Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac weren't off buying all these repackaged loans!! Its a very complicated issue, and its going to be a while before mainstream America accepts the truth of it because both Democrats and Republicans were involved in it (Clinton and Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac, Bush and the Federal Reserve, Obama and Housing Tax Credits). Government making artificial demand is what allowed these banks to give out crazy loans, when there was no actual capital or payment plan to back up these loans. In America, we have this unofficial belief that Americans have a right to a home - some 60 something % own a home, as opposed to 20 something % in Switzerland (exact numbers here http://comment.rsablogs.org.uk/2010/06/28/rsa-animate-crisis-capitalism/). Its just absurd and it really has caused grave consequences across all industries.

True_Wolverine_Fan

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 11:47 p.m.

@Ram Snyder said his remark about the bank bailouts at a townhall meeting I went to. I don't know where you would be able to find it online, but if you sent a question to his people I'm sure they would respond (they've responded to me twice). As for the gay rights thing. Snyder was the best Republican on that issue of the three major Republicans who were running. That doesn't make him pro-gay though, quite the contrary. Rick is opposed to gay marriage and he refuses to speak about whether or not he supports things like the employment nondiscrimination act (an act that would make it illegal to fire someone simply because they are gay). Not speaking about his positions on these things - as one poster has already said - makes it suspect that he is supportive of LGBT people's fight for equality. On the flip side, Virg Bernero has been outspoken with his support. He spoke at the gay pride rally in E. Lansing and he has shared on numerous occasions his stories about growing up with a gay brother and seeing the bullying his brother faced daily and wanting to beat those bullies up for his brother. He even has a special area on his website devoted to gay rights. Virg Bernero is a very strong ally to LGBT people. From the Battle Creek Enquirer: Citizens for Traditional Values President James Muffett, whose group opposes abortion and gay marriage, said Snyder is definitely more palatable than Bernero. "When you compare him (Snyder) to the other Republican candidates, he doesn't look as good on those issues," Muffett said. "But when you compare him with Virg Bernero, he looks like a saint." I obviously disagree with your deregulation comment as well. Lifting regulations on banks is what allowed Goldman Sachs and other investment banks to run wild. It's also what helped foster an environment where banks gave ninja loans to people. Too much regulation is bad, but no regulation is worse. Those are my musings :-) Night all!

Ram

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 11:27 p.m.

Why compare Snyder to the KKK? I asked earlier for evidence that Snyder is anti-gay or anti-choice and nobody has showed me the evidence of such accusations. I am disappointed that Snyder would endorse a bank bailout (source on that? I was unaware of his support of the bailout but for sake of argument, lets say you are right about that). The reason that I do not believe deregulation caused the crisis is because the crisis was caused by government intervention in the marketplace. Banks were giving out these crazy loans to people because the government was encouraging this process through Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the Federal Reserve. The government was encouraging people to buy all these houses that they couldn't afford, and this new demand created a spike in prices. We all know what happened once people realized they couldn't afford their house and when housing prices adjusted to their true value, instead of their government influenced artificial prices.

True_Wolverine_Fan

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 10:45 p.m.

The comment Annarbor.com won't let stand: Business people aren't bad for the economy. They are, however, bad for government offices. They care about profit, not people. Elected officials are supposed to care about both. To vote for someone simply because you agree with their economic plan is misguided. Would you vote for someone whose economic plan you agreed with completely if that person was a full fledged member of the KKK?

Jeff Alson

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 10:25 p.m.

I hope Tony Dearing and the other annarbor.com editorial board members will take this constructive criticism from someone who believes in local journalism and who hopes the annarbor.com experiment is successful. The Snyder endorsement editorial was totally lacking in any substance whatsoever. As someone who did not know a lot about Snyder, I was looking forward to learning something relevant, but I learned absolutely nothing about how Snyder would accomplish any of the general goals that are mentioned. If this is how annarbor.com is going to make its case for endorsements, I suggest that you not bother, regardless of whom you endorse. There is simply not a single--not one!--example cited of how Snyder would accomplish any of his goals as governor. The editorial mentions his "campaign platform" and then just lists some general platitudes on which we would all agree. It says he believes in "diversifying Michigan's economy and making it more competitive globally, while reforming taxes, making state government more efficient an responsive, and improving our schools" and "seeks to create an economic climate in Michigan that fosters entrepreneurship, risk-taking, technology transfer, and locally grown businesses." But 99% of all politicians (including, I am sure, his opponent) would support these general goals (can anyone remember anyone campaigning to worsen our schools or against job creation?), the question is how would he try to accomplish any of these things at a time of high unemployment and deficits? Not a single Snyder plan of action is provided. Ironically, the closest the endorsement comes to providing any specific proposals of Mr. Snyder is when it cites specific actions that his opponent has taken as mayor of Lansing, and then says Snyder supports those actions as well. Ironic, in that his opponent has actually implemented these programs, while the endorsement cites no specific plans from Mr. Snyder at all. The problem with such an empty endorsement is that, when presented with no details or proposals, one must assume that there is something else going on. Maybe Mr. Snyder is friends with one or more of the board members? Maybe Mr. Snyder has bought lots of ads at annarbor.com? Maybe the highly paid employees who wrote the endorsement have other unstated reasons they like Mr. Snyder's views, but don't want to tell us what they are? I don't want to believe these things, but what are we to believe when there is no detailed reason given for the endorsement?

True_Wolverine_Fan

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 10:11 p.m.

@Dan It's very arrogant for former CEOs to think that they have the chops to succeed in political office simply because they succeeded in private business. And then the audacity to use the fact that the people running against them have experience in politics as a negative by calling them "career politicians". It's ridiculous! By your logic, someone who was a great politician would be a great CEO. The two positions (CEO / Politician) have some overlap, sure, but they have some very distinct differences. The macro view of their differences would be their goals -- CEOs need to make the most profit for their company. Politicians need to provide the most benefit to the most people. Those goals are not the same. Not at all. Since you can't see that I guess this debate really is going no where. Such a shame you can't see that. Such a shame most Michiganders can't see that. The uneducated electorate wins again I suppose.

Dan H

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 10:02 p.m.

True, HAHA. OK, this is it for me. Honestly, I love debating people, but this is going nowhere. How can I possibly debate someone who with an apparently straight face is trying to tell me "business people are bad for political office?" That statement is pure nonsense. However, let's just say it was 100% accurate. They are BAD for political office. So I guess that means.....hang on everyone, are you ready for this....CAREER politicians who have never struggled to start and grow a business and pass regulations under which they themselves don't have to live are what's GOOD for the economy. Oh I see now! How did I make it 39 years on this planet up till now. But it gets better.... Because I've also learned that as long as you remove the so called profit motive from political office, politicians will do the right thing! Silly me. I thought politicians tended to scheme for their own ill gotten gains EVEN IF they DIDN'T have a business background before coming into office. Shucks, once you remove the profit motive, they are as clean and as pure as the driven snow. Thanks for clarifying. Where have you been all of my life to dispense such pearls of profound wisdom?

True_Wolverine_Fan

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 10:01 p.m.

@Jay The Freep isn't too far to the right for me. I don't visit their website because they have a vendetta against Michigan athletics.

Jay Thomas

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 10 p.m.

@ T_W_F: It's too bad their aren't any local papers to suit you... but they're all run by businesses! The HORROR of that. The fact that the Freep is too far to the right for you SPEAKS VOLUMES. That kind of extremism and a buck fifty will get you on the AATA but that's all.;)

True_Wolverine_Fan

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 9:59 p.m.

@Dan In reference to your sarcastic quote: "regulation is what induces prosperity" Deregulation is what led to the financial collapse we are all too well acquainted with today. Let's follow your advice though... let private corporations run a muck and reward them with bailouts when they fail. Rick for Michigan!

True_Wolverine_Fan

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 9:39 p.m.

Dan, No where do I say I support affirmative action. Secondly, your man Rick Snyder was in favor of bailing out the banks... a true capitalist would have let the weak banks fail. Competition. The strongest survive. The models of the strongest are duplicated and industry is stronger because of it. With a bailout you've artificially propped up weak banks. You've rewarded failure. Where is the capitalism? Maybe you should hit the econ books.

Dan H

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 9:27 p.m.

True Fan, No that's not what I'm saying at all. But thanks for trying your best to put your warped view of the world into my mouth. Dan

True_Wolverine_Fan

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 9:25 p.m.

Dan, you hit the nail on the head. Annarbor.com is a business which cares solely about making the most money. The rights of gays and lesbians, women, minorities, workers, the middle and lower class and the support of education and health care are meaningless when compared to the rights of the rich... you know, people who own businesses like Annarbor.com. It all makes sense now. Thanks for clearing it up.

Michael Rodemer

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 9:15 p.m.

What a surprise.... AnnArbor.com endorses the Republican.

Dan H

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 9:12 p.m.

"To hear some of the ways that Snyder has been attacked over his business background is to understand how far removed Michigan has become from what made it an economic powerhouse." Amen, Tony, and thank God for some straight talking sense. Most people who deride so called free market capitalism wouldn't know what it is if they tripped over it. The unavoidable bottom line is that, despite our countries many flaws, even from its very inception, entrepreneurship and business is what has made America the most prosperous country in the world. To avoid that fact is to avoid history altogether. I'm glad to see AnnArbor.com taking this stance. The reality is the braying socialists and anti-market/anti-business/anti-entrepreneur types who haunt these threads never stop to consider that AnnArbor.com itself is a privately funded venture that struggles daily in the marketplace as a business. The fierce competition of the Internet made having to shut down the newspaper 7 days a week and abandon the expensive downtown physical location a reality. But rising in the spirit of all entrepreneurs, Tony, you didn't just lie down. You morphed the venture by making it leaner and meaner, cutting costs, and embracing the Internet. Now, while you work ceaselessly like any value driven entrepreneur to give the market what it wants...in a cost efficient way, through competition that may be very painful to face, and incur those financial risks, you have also given a pulpit to those who know nothing about these kinds of heroic sacrifices to criticize people just like you -- and Rick. And, that's OK. Because that is the very nature of your business...and one of the great ironies of the free market. Even the socialists and anti-business types benefit from it. In fact, they benefit disproportionately from it. Everytime I shop at whole foods, I revel in the irony that most of the greenies and liberals who shop there probably have no clue what the founder is a staunch free market libertarian/business visionary. May the real entrepreneurs long live! What we need to condemn rid are the crony capitalists, the oligarchs, and, yes, the socialists, the last of whom think a few corrupt people on Wall Street who have buddies in government is what business itself means and represents. Dan

DonBee

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 9:03 p.m.

Because I will be traveling out of state, I voted. I voted a very split ticket - people from 5 different parties got my vote. I voted based on personal research, not on endorsements or party lines. I believe that research and thinking are an important step in voting. You can take or leave what AnnArbor.com, MSNBC, FOX, NPR, and your church tell you. It is up to you.

talker

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 8:09 p.m.

Since the polls of likely voters exclude many of the young voters who typically skip mid-term elections, the polls could be mistaken if more young voters cast ballots. It would be a mistake for someone to skip voting because they thinking a candidate will lose. People who disagree with the endorsement need to vote and to remind other voters to vote.

talker

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 8:01 p.m.

I agree with many of the comments. You'll know which ones when I add two more points: I'm troubled when people who claim to be pro-choice (as I am) believe that women's rights won't be affected by who are governor and lieutenant governor. I also sense that some think pro-choice applies only to surgical abortions, when it applies to forms of contraception and many other women's health issues. Please talk to health care workers who treated patients seriously injured from "back alley" abortions before abortion became legal. Second,could presentation as a businessman not concerned with social issues be a way to try to avoid the ultra conservative label that fits, but wouldn't be smart politics in the heavily populated southeastern lower Michigan?

True_Wolverine_Fan

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 7:55 p.m.

@Jay "Do you think they want the public at large to just "put up" with gays and blacks and other minorities? I think not." Comparing commenting on Annarbor.com to society being tolerant of gays and blacks... Wow. Not only do you fail to make any rational point, but you actually offend two minority groups! To compare the struggle of African American's and gay people to someone's comments or refusal to continue commenting on a blog is preposterous. I'm ashamed for you.

True_Wolverine_Fan

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 7:47 p.m.

@Jay Simply refusing to come to Annarbor.com isn't being intolerant. I refuse to go to the Detroit Free Press website, but that's not because I'm intolerant of them. It's because I think they're incompetent. Mitch probably feels the same about Annarbor.com. I know I'm starting to.

Jay Thomas

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 7:21 p.m.

@True_Wolverine_Fan: While to tolerate something can mean to put up with it -- that's not the tolerance liberals have been pushing for decades... and you know it. Do you think they want the public at large to just "put up" with gays and blacks and other minorities? I think not. Tolerance is acceptance of others in its modern context (recognizing and respecting them even if you don't share their beliefs). My point stands. AnnArbor.com endorses plenty of Democrats (a majority in fact) and probably will for Governor sometime in the future. But that isn't enough for some people; they want it to resemble Worker's World or Pravda with strict party discipline enforced at all times... or they will throw a tantrum and storm off. LOL I disagree with plenty of the opinions offered here... but I'm still here. Now who is more tolerant?

Speechless

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 7:08 p.m.

While I'm certainly going to vote for Virg Bernero — whose outlook and ideas make him the best Democratic nominee for governor in many years — I have to admit that Snyder is a welcome relief in comparison to Cox and Hoekstra, his two main Republican primary opponents this past summer. Rick does seem to have the desire, and hopefully the political will as well (keeping my fingers crossed), to block the very worst that the Michigan GOP would otherwise offer the residents of this state. Here's hoping he's a bigtime RINO in a state whose current generation of GOP activists tremble in horror and disdain upon hearing the name "Milliken." Though I do fear Snyder will 'throw a few bones' to the religious far right to try and keep them less angry. In a prosperous era, the winner of this contest wouldn't matter quite as much. But today the regional economy is not so much at a major crossroads as it is falling off a high cliff. Just as the western UP''s mining boom towns began to shrink a century ago as that industry went into decline, the same has been happening with southeast Michigan's auto boom towns of the last century. In the U.P., the long-ago mining boom was never really replaced, although summer tourism did help somewhat. The "free market" mostly abandoned that area's economy, leaving it permanently flat. We see the same thing happening again today on a far larger scale in the cities of our general region. Without major public intervention, market economics will similarly leave southeast Michigan in an endless loop of recession, varying between moderate and severe — just like the last ten years, except worse. In this context, Bernero will do things that Snyder either won't do, or else his party won't let him. The tax system badly needs a full overhaul, starting with a graduated state income tax. Loopholes that benefit only the well-off must be closed shut right away. This is the only way to maintain and then improve public infrastructure, without which it's going to be 'game over.' Bernero will also champion a state-run bank to help facilitate and direct new investment in Michigan. He also has a commitment to ongoing development of green manufacturing, which is very much a growing concern, unlike automobiles. So far, Snyder's only big plan is to summarily chop business taxes. He has no expressed plan, however, for how to replace the loss of this huge sum, an amount so great that even his own personal bank account can't begin to cover the deficit. We'll need to dismantle public infrastructure to pay off this proposed tax cut, which will do very little to stimulate economy recovery. The declining infrastructure will then drive away both current residents and future investment, and the entire state will take on a smell of increasing decay.

RayA2

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 7:04 p.m.

Rick Snyder's promise to eliminate the SBT and cut regulation is more of the Republican pro wealthy agenda. Those of us who do not control the capital resources of the state and country, rely on our elected officials to protect us from otherwise unfettered greed and power mongering. Despite the failings of some our elected officials, their corruption is nothing compared to what we will suffer if the Republicans are allowed to implement their agenda. I do not exagerate when I say that the very environment we live in will be the dumping ground of the refineries, chemical plants, etc, that feed the coffers of wealthy men like Snyder. For those of you who weren't around in the 50s and 60s to experience this effect, please do not underestimate how bad it can get. The Republicans also like to give away all publicly owned resources in the name of privatization. If you don't like the idea of Rick Snyder's friends and family making even more money by selling us back time in our previously owned public lands, then don't vote republican.

True_Wolverine_Fan

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 6:38 p.m.

@Jay Tolerating a paper's right to exist and publish stories is completely different from actively reading it and contributing to it in the comments. He's not going to try and force Annarbor.com to shut down, he's just not going to read it or comment on its stories. Misrepresent everything and you will be one of us. The reality of the Republican party.

Jay Thomas

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 6:22 p.m.

Hey, we just lost Mitch! Disagree on even ONE THING and they will vilify you. The myth of liberal tolerance.

David Frye

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 5:56 p.m.

That's it. I'm tired of sending my hard-earned money to the Republican ideologues who own and control this paper. I'm canceling my subscription. Ann Arbor deserves a newspaper that respects its readers.

Marshall Applewhite

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 5:43 p.m.

Wow. I've never seen a group of Democrats more intent on allowing Michigan to become Eastern Europe(minus the great architecture) than the commenters on this site. You people really need to wake up and start thinking about the situation others are presently dealing with.

Milton Shift

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 4:44 p.m.

gild, capitalism has no mechanism to stop conditions from returning to such deplorable conditions. Remove independent action on the part of the left, and we will find ourselves there soon enough. Bob, you are wrong, you cannot earn prosperity, you must fight for it. It is true that it's created by hard work, but the capitalists will not simply hand it over. Your grandfathers fought hard for the right to the 8 hour day, for themselves, and for their grandchildren. They fought for the right to not have to work yourself to the bone to survive. You are not the only one who has grandfathers who worked in terrible conditions. Most of ours did. One of mine was in the coal mines at 12, the other worked in a Ford plant his entire life. Tell those working in sweatshops in China that they are not working hard enough and that's why they're not prosperous, and let me know what they think of that...

Basic Bob

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 4:23 p.m.

@Milton Shift: "The prosperity of the late 20th century was not created by capitalists; it was built by the hard work of working people!" How dare you compare the hard work of my union grandfathers with the so-called union workers we have today. There is still the opportunity for people to work hard, but few choose to do it. Future prosperity must be earned, not fought for.

gild

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 4:10 p.m.

So has ANY newspaper in this state endorsed Bernero? When even the liberal Detroit Free Press comes out for Snyder, that should tell you something... that anyone who's paying attention knows Bernero's staunch unionism and refusal to adapt to a changing world is not the answer Michigan needs. Those who keep talking about sweatshops or governors ordering police to open fire on strikers are living in the past... either in the early 20th century, when unions DID fight against absolutely deplorable conditions, or in the 1970s, when it looked like the Michigan auto industry would be prosperous forever. Wake up! I'm sorry that you can no longer expect to make a comfortable living your entire life by graduating from high school, going to work at the plant, and working an assembly line for 35 years before retiring. But that's life. The world has changed. And Michigan needs to change with it. To those who call Snyder anti-gay and anti-choice: I don't agree with Snyder on abortion or gay rights. I probably do agree with you. But I also know this. Snyder doesn't really seem to care about abortion; he probably wouldn't talk about it all except for the fact that the right-wingers who dominate the Republican party demanded an answer during the primary. (The Right-to-Life loons HATE Snyder.) And his answer to the gay marriage question during the debate was that he believes marriage is between a man and a woman, but also believes people have the right to enter into contracts with each other. To me, that signals support for civil unions, and in a state as dominated by the social right as Michigan, the best way to marriage equality may indeed be to institute civil unions and then let people see that the world didn't fall apart when we did it. Bernero appeals to people who are in denial, who want to think that if we can just stop those darned fat-cat outsourcers, the 1970s will come back. Well, they won't. We need to adapt to a new marketplace and learn to compete in it, and Snyder is the one who can get us there.

True_Wolverine_Fan

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 3:37 p.m.

I've come to a conclusion... yes Rick Snyder will become governor, that's obvious... but he won't have enough of 'his people' in government to be able to get anything done. The Democrats in Michigan will do what Republicans everywhere have done and continue to do to Granholm and Obama... they will stand in the way and just vote 'no' to anything the governor wants. This will make the governor look like a moron who can't accomplish anything and who fails to reach across the aisle. Genius! Stole that play right from the Republican playbook!

Milton Shift

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 3:05 p.m.

The prosperity of the late 20th century was not created by capitalists; it was built by the hard work of working people! Despite this, living wages were not simply given: they had to fought for, sometimes with great loss of their own blood. Governors, and even Presidents, did not hesitate to order troops to gun down strikers. Rick Snyder, along with the rest of the free market fundamentalists, will drag us kicking and screaming back to the 19th century, when capitalism reigned unrestrained, and working wages were so abysmal that the 16 hour day couldn't clothe your children.

True_Wolverine_Fan

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 3:04 p.m.

A lot of you guys posting here about how social issues like "pro-this or anti-that" are not important seem to be failing to understand something. Imagine if you were gay and your rights were up for a vote... Or what about if a gay politician was running and he was against heterosexual marriage and wanted the state to maintain the right to fire heterosexuals simply for being heterosexual... I'm sure his economic plan would more than make up for it though, right? You're a straight, white and christian male... good for you. Your rights aren't up for a vote. Now go vote on whose economic plan you like more. For people who aren't a straight, white and christian male it's a different story. When your basic human rights are at stake whose economic plan you like more tends to take a back seat.

Milton Shift

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 2:53 p.m.

Efficiency = wage and benefit cuts Competitiveness = wage and benefit cuts Profitability = wage and benefit cuts Flexibility = wage and benefit cuts Capitalism is the cause of Michigan's economic decline and another free market fundamentalist has nothing to offer but disaster after disaster. Globalization may be unstoppable, but that does not mean we need to embrace capitalism's tyrannical and impoverishing nature. When the major paper in Ann Arbor, one of the (supposedly) most left-leaning cities in the country endorses a rich free market capitalist, we can truly understand just how far this nation has fallen off the right-wing deep end. You have endorsed the destruction of the living standards of your friends, family, and neighbors.

michigan face

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 2 p.m.

1bit - listen to your own 2bits - sos. Rick Snyder is Ann Arbor.com and other wealthy hypocrites' Darling. Check the facts - Vote Virg!

blahblahblah

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 1:59 p.m.

Oh the tragedy..... A2.com agrees with the polls. How dare you and the Det News agree with the majority of likely state voters.

sbbuilder

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 1:57 p.m.

Our house is burning down around us. The flames are licking at the door. Smoke is getting thicker by the minute. And some of you guys are more concerned about pro-this and anti-that. Employment. Education. If we can't get those things straight, and quick, it won't matter if you are pro-this or anti-that. I'm not overly enamored with Mr Snyder. Same goes with Mr Bernero. However, the person sitting in the Governor's chair come January had better be very adept at keeping the piddly little differences in the corner, and keep the focus on putting the fire out.

Steve Bean

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 1:01 p.m.

Ram, the people of those countries are not competing with Americans for jobs, capitalists in those countries are competing with capitalists in this country for the ability to exploit the labor of workers there rather than here. To bring this back on topic, the editorial identified Snyder as a venture capitalist. I think that's reason to raise the questions I did in my previous comment about whose money and to the benefit of whom.

michigan face

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 12:46 p.m.

Why am I surprised? Annarbor.com and the Ann Arbor News before it are controlled by the conservatives. What a joke - the basis of your endorsement of Rick Snyder. This is a biased opinion that doesn't float the boat. It would have been so refreshing to see unexpected thoughtfulness and research behind a decision - in that, case, I am sure you would have found that Virg Bernero deserves our support and vote. Lansin is the 7th most prosperous city in the country under Virg. All of Ann Arbor does not have blinders on like A2com. Your endorsement means nothing to people with intelligence.

Ram

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 12:28 p.m.

Steve Bean: You talk about "the victims of globalization"... I want to know what is so wrong with outsourcing? Are people of a foreign country not allowed to compete with Americans for jobs? Or are we supposed to pretend that those people don't exist? America comes first, then the rest of the world can fend for themselves... For those of you who say Rick Snyder is anti-choice and anti-gay, I wasn't aware of that. From my following of the race, Snyder has largely avoided talking about such issues. If you could show me some evidence of these stances, I'd greatly appreciate it. If you are right about him in that respect, that may change my opinion of him. But I have to say that the economy is the number one issue for Michiganders right now.

af3201sps

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 12:24 p.m.

@Mitch See ya! Your comments have always been interesting. The sandbox just won't be the same without you!

81wolverine

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 12:20 p.m.

100% in agreement Tony. The economy is the #1 issue in this election by far and Snyder has the correct plan and ideas for turning Michigan around. I agree that Michigan's problems won't be solved overnight. Nor will it be without pain. It's good that Rick does not subscribe to the political idealogies that pulled Michigan into the crater of unemployment and shrinking opportunities we find ourselves in today. Bernero's union affiliations should be a red flag to voters. Here's a fact: unions don't attract any new jobs to Michigan - they repel them. Companies have made decisions not to locate operations here because of the pro-union climate in the state. Like it or not, that's the way things are today. So if you want things to stay the same and not improve, vote for Bernero. But, if you are willing to embrace positive changes and create hope for a prosperous Michigan in the future, vote for Rick.

Steve Bean

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 11:37 a.m.

"Our great prosperity of the 20th Century was created through entrepreneurship. But that success led to complacency, and overreliance on one industry that lost its ability to compete globally." That's an amazingly narrow and parochial perspective, ignoring vast aspects of history and national and international events. It blames the victims of globalization (NAFTA, etc.) in order to praise a proponent of it. "That says something about whose economic plan the manufacturers of this state see as more promising for creating jobs in the future." Or maybe it says something about who they see as more promising for benefiting them, regardless of job creation. And jobs doing what? Producing what? With what impact on the environment? For what wage? With what level of employee benefits, like health care? At what level of profit to shareholders and executives? "[Bernero's] record as mayor in Lansing is admirable." So an admirable record loses out to "positions Snyder takes as well"? Interesting. "[Snyder] seeks to create an economic climate in Michigan that fosters entrepreneurship, risk-taking, technology transfer and locally grown businesses." Risk-taking with whose money? "Were impressed how hes grown as a candidate, and how hes stuck to the core concepts of his campaign." So he hasn't learned anything that changed his thinking other than how to present it. Yes, it sounds like "he's stuck". "Someone has to drag this state and its politics kicking and screaming into the 21st Century." Please don't lump us citizens in with the politicians. Our needs--to have our egos appeased, primarily--aren't the same. Also, please consider that a "painful" "prescription" and "kicking and screaming" might not be as necessary as you imagine. Thanks for the editorial. I hadn't been following this contest very closely, so this has helped me learn some things and start to form an opinion on who I think would best serve our state.

peg dash fab

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 11:26 a.m.

Rick Snyder proposes to replace the Michigan Business Tax with one that will cut business taxes by $1.5B. This citizen would like to know how he intends to close the $1.5B hole in the State budget that results. What's the plan, Rick?

af3201sps

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 11:12 a.m.

The Detroit Free Press has also come out with it's own endorsement of Rick Snyder this morning. I typically vote Dem but this time around, Snyder and a few other Republicans get my vote. The Dems have (including Obama) have not made the grade this time around. Time for them to go....including Dingell.

bugjuice

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 11:07 a.m.

Who would have thought! Ann Arbor dot com, a lowest common denominator online blog (as opposed to local hard news source like the Ann Arbor Chronicle) looking for online numbers from browsers and their maybe 30 regular posters, endorses the conservative nerd. Will we never cease to be amazed? Don't worry Tony, it's a safe choice. You'll get plenty of attention from Snyder when he gets to Lansing.

YpsiLivin

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 11:05 a.m.

Chris Gerben, who said:...who cares about the aspects of education (widely visible here in Ann Arbor) that aren't broken. You should get out of Ann Arbor more often. Few "aspects of education" are unbroken in other parts of the state. The governor needs to be concerned with all areas of the state, and when public education isn't working in the state's largest cities -Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing - something drastic needs to be done. (Did you happen to notice that Ann Arbor isn't on this list of the largest cities in Michigan?) We've got serious education crises in many of the larger cities - Flint, Pontiac, Jackson, Muskegon, Benton Harbor - so what's "widely visible" here in Ann Arbor isn't manifesting itself in other school districts around the state. The Ann Arbor Public School district gets more than $9,000 per pupil, while most of the other districts get about $7,000 per pupil. What would every other district be like if they also got $9,000 per pupil from the state? (More aptly, what would AAPS be like if it had to get by on the $7,000 everyone else gets?) Please, take a drive up to Saginaw some afternoon and broaden your horizons a bit.

Jay Thomas

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 11:02 a.m.

Ruh roh. The usual suspects will be in a tizzy!

DonBee

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 11:01 a.m.

@ Chris Gerben - Ann Arbor Public Schools may not be broken, but some of the other big districts are (aka Detroit). Listening to NPR this morning there was an interesting take on Education that is very different from the way we run schools now. I am not for or against different, but we need to find a way to fix the broken schools. You don't like Snyder's approach, give us a different one and for Detroit - the Status Quo is not an option. Detroit spends well above the US average per student and has one of the worst outcomes of any district in the US. On average the US does worse than the other major developed nations on education. So my question is - just because it is working in Ann Arbor as well or better than other districts in the state - is it working well enough? Looking forward to your answer.

Olive

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 10:54 a.m.

Anti-choice, anti-gay, anti-worker, anti-education.....I'm anti-Snyder.

Alan Benard

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 10:43 a.m.

A fine job of keeping your job, Tony. Your owners will be pleased.

Chris Gerben

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 9:49 a.m.

For a paper supported by a college town and a solid base of public schools, I'm incredibly disappointed that not only did this endorsement not mention education at all, it also endorsed the candidate with the worst plan for the future of education. Snyder's white paper on education clearly states that he believes that public education is broken, and the only fix is more charter schools, busting up teacher unions, and basing merit pay on tests, tests, and more tests. Snyder is an embarrassment to anyone who cares about the aspects of education (widely visible here in Ann Arbor) that aren't broken. His entire platform is based on the rhetoric of starting over, which blindly turns an eye on everything that is going right in this area and in this state, and in our schools. Snyder, and now AnnArbor.com, want us to take several large steps back only because he's too impatient about the course we're already on. It's quite a shame.

Cash

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 9:07 a.m.

@PersonX, Wow. You said it perfectly. Thanks.

David Briegel

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 9:06 a.m.

A2.com has anointed Rick from the beginning. He hasn't had to debate or answer tough questions. He is indeed anti choice and anti gay. Cash, you are so correct about the "new Republican agenda". The victors of Ronnie Reagan's cold war, the Communist Chinese provide the American elites with everything they value; child labor, slave labor, prison labor, plundering the natural resources and polluting the environment. They want America bankrupt so they can return to the good ol' days when those values were American! It is amazing how the elites can call people who disagree elites as though elite was a negative!

Heretoday&tomorrow

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 9:03 a.m.

What a big surprise...AA.com endorses another Republican. George Bush twice so the pattern is clear. And, of course, Lauren was on Rick's totally ineffective SPARK board (where were the jobs? Audited figures, not fiction). But Rick is wealthy so that clinches it; the rich and corporations rule.

Cash

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 8:45 a.m.

Anti union and anti middle class media lords SHOULD love Snyder. He fits their goals. Beat down the little guy, blame the poor for all of their problems, ban unions that support the middle class, in other words make it even easier for the rich to get richer. Behind Snyder's "touch nerd" facade rests an elitist who will put his interests before anyone else. Seems Dearing subscribes to the same ideals.

PersonX

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 8:41 a.m.

Without expressing any opinion on the candidates--who cares what one poster has to say--I would question what the purpose of these endorsements is. After all, this is not a major newspaper that has a seasoned and experienced board of editors. It is merely a blog that has managed to semi-monopolize the flow of information about Ann Arbor; the "endorsements" simply express the private political biases of three well-connected men who are hardly objective. It seems somewhat grandiose to label these as major "newspaper endorsements."

AAresident

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 6:49 a.m.

An important fact is omitted from Tony Dearing's description of the campaign-- Rick Snyder spent $6 million of his own money in his run for office. Mr. Snyder has the right to do that, but it does influence the vote in a way that does not promote democracy.

Caferacer

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 5:59 a.m.

Nice article Tony and well done A2.com!

alfonso

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 4:56 a.m.

Snyder is anti-choice and anti-gay. Therefore I'm anti-Synder. And now I'm anti-Dearing and his on-line Republican rag.

OutsourcedU

Sun, Oct 24, 2010 : 4:37 a.m.

WOW... Now I understand why my comment on the HandyLab sale was removed from this site. I read the terms of posting here and found no violation. I simply stated my opinion nothing more nothing less. I have met Rick and he is a nice guy (honestly). Frankly I dont give a hoot which of these gentlemen runs our state. Each has their own agendas that require job creation in order to fulfill the same. Both men seem intelligent and driven.