In February, State Senator Nancy Thompson announced she would be leaving the Legislature early to focus on her new job as executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands. Yesterday, she announced she plans to stay in office until her term expires.
Thompson changes mind, will return - Omaha World-Herald
What I found interesting was the article that was written today.
Senator’s move causes stir - Omaha World-Herald
Here are a few of the highlights.
“It’s just incredibly disappointing for her to go back on her word as a public official,” Jones said. “There have been a lot of lives affected by this.”
Let’s not forget that Nancy Thompson was ELECTED to serve a four year term. That is exactly what she plans to do. What would have been “incredibly disappointing” would be an UN-ELECTED Governor appointing a person UN-ELECTED for that position to replace her. Where is the democracy in that?
Mark Quandahl, chairman of the Nebraska Republican Party, said Thompson caused unnecessary effort to replace her and a county commissioner.
“Nebraska now has our own version of the runaway bride,” he said. He added: “I just think it’s inconsiderate.”
I think that could possibly be the worst analogy I have ever heard in Nebraska politics. “Runaway” implies that she is running away from something. Mr. Quandahl what is she running away from? You need to work on your insults a little better. Also, Mr. Quandahl you sound like a sexist pig. If this was man, would you call him a “runaway bride?”
Maybe the Governor shouldn’t have been so gunho to replace Senator Thompson. It is my understanding that she did not submit a formal letter of resignation. the republicans are angry because they counted their chickens before they were hatched.
Thank you Senator for recognizing the need for you to stay in the legislature. We need more Senators with conviction and determination to do what is right for their constituents.
What was not mentioned in the story is how upset many of her constiutents were that she was leaving them even sooner than they had thought she would be term limited out. Also, young democrats, including members of our group, wrote letters asking her to stay in the legislature as one of the great senators we could count on.
She was reelected, in a 60 percent GOP heavy district, with over 60 percent of the vote, in 02. And 2002 was a year with extra high republican turnout. Senator Thompson is a star of the unicameral, and I’m very glad she is sticking around a bit more. I couldn’t care less if a few republican’s ambitions to take office without bothering to be elected are put on hold.
Attacking Mr. Quandahl is rediculous. He is so out of you league politically he makes you guys look silly when you speak. Do me a favor and stop the whining. Chairman Qaundahl is a very upstanding man and for you to attack him and make personal attacks is very sad and not democratic. I demand an apology.
Joe - you said goodbye to this blog and dramatically promised not to grace us with your presence any longer. You either have a very short memory, or just can’t control yourself. Don’t know what you do for a living, but I’m sure there are people there and that they are annoyed.
your right I did.
Oooohhhhh Joseph. Actually, the opposite is true. When Quandahl speaks, he actually makes himself look silly. I will apologize for calling Mr. Quandahl a “sexist pig” when he apologizes for calling Senator Thompson a “runaway bride.” Since I don’t see that happening anytime soon, I don’t think my apology will be coming anytime soon.
Actually, Joe, Quandhal’s attempt at humor was weak. Here’s how I see it - Thompson got a great job - remember, this is a citizen legislature, and 12k/year aint putting the kids thru school. She didn’t want to have to leave before her term expired, but originally, that’s what her employer demanded. She indicated to the Governor that she’d resign at some point prior to her term ending -but gave no date, and no letter of resignation.
Despite years of never being elected to anything and cutting ribbons, Heineman thought it would be appropriate to construct a joke of an application process for the impending vacancy (which wasn’t actually a vacancy). Despite many qualified candidates, Heineman chose his old running buddy from the Hal Daub days, Tim Gay, till fill Thompson not-vacant seat.
After another successful legislative session for Thompson, she figured out a way (with her employer’s blessing) to remain in her seat for the rest of her term. Great news for the 60% of registered voters who re-elected her in 2002, and for the citizens of Papillion. Bad news for those Sarpy repubs who were dusting off their resumes for what they believe to be their birthright.
From what I can tell, Quandhal seems to be a decent and honorable man - certainly moreso than that blowhard Kramer. I was very suprised to see his childish comment in regards to this situation - which should’ve never been a situation in the first place. Now, a great citizen, public servant whom the voters elected to office will be able to continue to serve her consituents - and an appointed governor who was an appointed treasurer will not have to appoint a senator….
Great case of the GOP political premature ejaculation.
that was beautifully articulated with just the right amount of respect and irony huskerdem. thanks for coming to our blog and speaking so well.
My pleasure…