MD4Bush identity revealed. Email linked to Democratic op.

[nickshepDEM]

An e-mail address of a former state Democratic Party worker was used in a discussion about Baltimore Mayor Martin O'Malley's marriage on a conservative Web site, a spokesman for the site said yesterday.

MD4BUSH sought out another freerepublic visitor known as ncpac, who was later revealed to be longtime Ehrlich political aide Joseph F. Steffen Jr.

Steffen confirmed to a Washington Post reporter in February that he wrote the e-mails discussing O'Malley rumors. But after publishing several articles, the Post acknowledged that the reporter, Matthew Mosk, had logged on as MD4BUSH from his work computer to verify the exchange, further complicating the story.

Taylor said the latest information about e-mail addresses - which the Web site previously refused to release citing privacy rules - indicates that the Ehrlich aide was unfairly targeted by the governor's opponents.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-md.republic16dec16,1,2794162.story?coll=bal-mdpolitics-headlines

[philmo]

1. Why does this matter?

I guess I don't understand why this is such a big deal. Steffen decided to spread the rumors, why does it matter who he spread them to?

[aintitfunny]

2. Exactly true, I don't see the point (eom)

[nickshepDEM]

3. It really doesnt matter.

But by linking MD4Bush to a democratic operative it takes a little heat of the Ehrlich administration. They can point they're finger and say MD4BUSH set Steffen up. So much for being the party of personal responsibility.

[formernaderite]

4. apparently the anonymous guy....started the conversation/emails

and made some pretty ugly statements about Ms. Mikulski, and O'malley. Steffen was on the receiving end at first. The Sun and WBAL have been covering this story lately. I still think this is a GOP set up....why would someone from the state dem party be so stupid?

[aintitfunny]

6. The guy encouraged Steffen

The rumors were being spread in advance of the communications between MD4BUSH and Steffen. I know this because I heard the rumors and I was shocked. They were were extremely vicious and over the top, but the tellers and those hearing seemed to have problems beleiving them. If someone outed the bastard who was smearing O'Malley - more power to them.

[formernaderite]

7. some people are saying this might have been a Duncan coup

any thoughts? Very juvenile stuff either way.

[aintitfunny]

8. That would be something!

But I would not think Doug Duncan would play in the mud to that extent. It is childish - any way you look at it and kind of ridiculous. I do expect Duncan supporters to provide this as another reason to support their candidate in the Primary - but thems the breaks.

[newyawker99]

5. Hi philmo!!

Welcome to DU!! :toast: