Free Republic

Earlier this year, California found all sorts of problems with e-voting machines used in the state. Now, Ohio, home to some of the more controversial stories surrounding presidential elections, has also found serious flaws in every e-voting machine used in the state. It's the usual stuff that has been pointed out for years: it was easy to pick locks on the machines, introduce fake votes, and load up dangerous unauthorized software onto the machines. Not much new there -- just another confirmation. What's much more interesting is the reaction of the firms involved. First up is "Premier Election Solution," who...

Eric Fingerhut is canceling his quixotic bid for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination against the anointed candidate, Ted Strickland. Also, Paul Hackett (D-Barking Moonbatville) cancelled his appearance on Hardboiled with Chris Matthews, fueling speculation that he will drop his primary challenge to Sherrod "Stalin" Brown and instead take another crack at the congressional seat now held by Jean Schmidt. This sets up a Brown v. DeWine race in the fall. DeWine is probably grateful because if Hackett had been his opponent, Hackett may have gotten NRA support. Look for the NRA to stay neutral on this one. Source for the (drop...

Hackett Drops Senate Bid, Takes Democrats To Task Veteran Calls Party Moves 'Betrayal' POSTED: 6:35 am EST February 14, 2006 UPDATED: 7:01 am EST February 14, 2006 Email This Story | Print This Story CINCINNATI -- Iraq war veteran Paul Hackett, who gained popularity for his staunch criticism of President George W. Bush, has dropped out of the Democratic race for U.S. Senate in Ohio, according to a published report. Hackett told The New York Times for Tuesday's editions that the same party leaders who urged him to run for Senate after his sensational political debut in a House race...

Dear Friends and Colleagues, Before I hold a press conference tomorrow morning in Columbus, I want to personally share my letter to you, written with gratitude for your support. When I entered the race for governor, I did so with the expectation that I would be able to run an aggressive, well-funded campaign for the Democratic nomination. Despite my best efforts, and the efforts of many others, it has now become clear that this will not be the case. Therefore, I have made the decision to withdraw from the race, and will not be filing the papers necessary this week...