This interesting entry from HumanEvents.com states there is considerable speculation that Arizona Congressman John Shadegg (R-CD3) will retire in 2010.
Shadegg surprised many on February 11, 2008, with his abrupt retirement announcement. Within days, he reversed himself and “unretired,” amid calls by his congressional colleagues for him to reconsider. This time the rumors are widespread and persistent.
If he does step down, there are several folks who have shown an interest in running for the vacant seat, not the least of whom is State Rep. Sam Crump (R-Dist 6). Other names being mentioned are State Sens. Pamela Gorman (R-Dist.6) and Jim Waring (R-Dist.7) a one-time McCain staffer.
Crump has filed an exploratory committee for Attorney General. But would he choose to run for Congress if Shadegg announces his retirement?
Stay tuned.
It’s time he kept his word and hung it up. I’m tired of him hurling insults at his constituents simply because we are fed up with being invaded by Mexico!
He lost me when he called me (and other citizens) intolerant and xenophobic. Time to suck lemons at home, Shadegg.
If true, this is not bad news. John Shadegg is ripe for being taken out, and I’d much rather see the CD3 seat go to a Republican than stay with the McCain wannabe. I have been a supporter since his first race, but I’d like to see someone who represents the district more consistantly than Shadegg is currently doing. I agree with FV who is tired of the insults. I’d like to have the opportunity to ask him about this face to face, but that is not likely to happen.
We need some fresh faces and more conservative ideas. Recent polls indicate Americans are veering MORE to the right, not less. Shadegg is swimming against the tide.
Shadegg is one of the most admired conservative congressmen in the country and it would be a shame if we lost him. Even with the millions spent by the democrats to defeat him, he won re-election by a wide majority. He is out raising money, I keep seeing him on national news programs, and I have seen his petitions being circulated. I doubt if he is retiring.
I recommend the grassroots get involved with the County and State Party but only for the purpose of taking out John Shadegg–he does such a lousy job.
Crump has proven himself to be a stalwart conservative in the AZ House and a vigorous defender of conservative principles. He will fight the good fight in either the AG’s office or in Congress; both offices desperately need a conservative.
How many times does one “eye” retirement? Rep. Crump is smart, personable and knows the lay of the land. He’d be a fine congressional rep. I hope he runs, regardless of whether Shadegg is in or out.
Jim:
I caught your irony and enjoyed it. I too remember when Shadegg addressed a Republican group and told them to stay away from the state and county GOP. He only advised that they involve themselves to the extent that they focus on taking out the state and country GOP leaders. What a guy! I’d rather take him out at the ballot box. He’s overstayed his welcome as far as I’m concerned. What flippin’ arrogance!
John was born with a political silver spoon in his mouth, but it has become very tarnished with his incessant dribble.
Crump would be an able replacement for the district. One thing is guaranteed, Crump would remember that he was elected to represent the values of Arizona, not the power brokers on the Potomac.
I am solidly behind John Shaddegg and hope he stays one more term.
If not, Jim Waring is a tireless worker who daily stays connected to his constituents. He walks door to door – during times there is no election. Something to be said for that amount of energy to stay in touch with those of us who vote.
Sam Crump shoots from the hip. He’s a smart guy, but I want someone in Congress who can be consistent and on the positive. The only positive I see with Sam is he is high on Sam.
The group Shadegg addressed when he called for the removal of the state and county Republican Party leadership was a Jewish Republican organization my mother-in-law attends. She called us from her car after the meeting concluded to say how she and those she was sitting with were appalled at Rep. Shadegg’s comments. I don’t imagine he had any idea how his comments would be taken, but the level of disappointment was hitched up more than a few notches. Based on the fact that so many of the Jewish faith are Democrats, Shadegg wrongly assumed that even though this was the Republican Jewish Coalition, he could get away with slamming AZ GOP leadership because he could dangle his pro-Israel carrot. These people are far to savvy for that. According to Mom, he made a huge miscalculation. She’s in her fities, well educated, well read, a pro-life conservative Republican and I’ve rarely seen her so steamed.
This is inexcusable, Jonathan. I was unaware Shadegg called for removing Pullen and Haney. Obviously they are too conservative for him, but what a thing for him to say! I remember he supported state chairman Pullen’s opponent Lisa James, but to make these statements publicly about two hardworking leaders who both represent larger voting blocs than he does is clearly over the top. Shadegg represents one of eight AZ congressional districts. Pullen is elected by Republican committeemen who are STATEWIDE. County chairman Haney was elected by committeemen representing the entire Maricopa County. It sounds as though Shadegg is losing sight of who he is. All that recirculated air in the airplane cabin traveling to and from DC must be having an effect on him.
Does this mean that Jim Ward will get out of CD5 & go run for Shadegg’s seat? I’d like to see Schweikert have a “clear” primary so we can get rid of Mitchell next year. Someone call Sean Noble!!!
Terrible customer service too.
Waring is a very hard worker, but never forget that he is one of the dozens of former McCain staffers who have infiltrated every layer of government here in Arizona and they never forget that Johnny Boy is their don.
I for one would welcome Shadegg’s retirement. He is a vindictive closet liberal who behind the scenes works for the expulsion of all social conservatives from the GOP. When was the last time he took up the banner for the conservatives? He talks a good game in Arizona but you should see him in D.C. Jim Waring an ex McCain staffer who would like to replace Shadegg would be no better and possibly worse. He should try to get a job in real life and stop feeding at the public trough.
I’ll be glad to see Shaddegg retire. After he voted for the bailout, I knew he wasn’t a fiscal conservative.