Mike Stark American Political Commentator and Activist

Mike Stark is a multifaceted American figure known for his work as a reporter, blogger, political activist, and computer programmer. A graduate of the University of Virginia School of Law, Stark has established himself as a prominent voice in liberal political commentary, contributing to platforms such as StarkReports.com, The Huffington Post, and Daily Kos. He has also been a featured panelist at the Yearly Kos conventions in 2006 and 2007.

Professional Background

Before transitioning into political activism and reporting, Stark worked as a back-end developer for Matrix Intermedia Corporation around 2002. He served as under the guidance of industry professionals like Alan Evans and Brenda Meltz-Helm. However, his passion for law and politics led him to leave the company to pursue a Juris Doctor degree.

Political Activism and the "Calling All Wingnuts" Blog

Stark gained significant attention through his blog, CallingAllWingnuts.com. He used the platform as an organizing tool to recruit volunteers to call into conservative radio shows to challenge their narratives. One of his most notable early campaigns targeted Bill O'Reilly's Radio Factor, where he encouraged supporters to call in and express their support for Keith Olbermann, leading to O'Reilly disconnecting callers who mentioned Olbermann's name.

Confrontations with Political Figures

Stark is well-known for his direct and often confrontationalational approach to political reporting. In 2006, during George Allen's reelection bid, Stark confronted Senator Allen regarding the use of racial slurs and the presence of a Confederate flag and noose in his office. This encounter led to Stark being ejected from a hotel premises.

Later that year, in October 2006, Stark attended another rally where he asked Allen about his arrest record and rumors of spousal abuse. This incident resulted in a video showing campaign staffers wrestling Stark to the ground, which aired on national news programs.

Feud with Bill O'Reilly

Stark's activism extended to his work challenging Bill O'Reilly. In 2007, after O'Reilly sent a film crew to the home of JetBlue CEO David Barger, Stark responded by confronting O'Reilly outside his own home. Stark distributed copies of O'Reilly's sexual harassment lawsuit to neighbors and placed signs in the neighborhood labeling O'Reilly as a "liar" and "pervert." This action earned him the title of "Worser Person in the World" on Keith Olbermann's show.

Legal Issues and Arrests

Stark's activism has occasionally led to legal complications. In October 2018, Stark was arrested and charged with battery after an incident involving the campaign manager of Nevada Attorney General Adam Laxalt. While working for the liberal super PAC American Bridge 21st Century, he was accused of grabbing and twisting the arm of Kristin Davison. Earlier that year, he had been charged with assault for allegedly pushing a top aide to Secretary Ryan Zinke outside a congressional hearing, though he and American Bridge denied the assault.

Advocacy for Free Speech

Stark has also advocated for the First Amendment, describing himself as a "champion of the First Amendment" during an interview on CNN's Reliable Sources in 2007, specifically regarding his efforts to bring attention to violent commentary on San Francisco radio station KSFO.