May 17, 2008
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KeysDan
Recent comments by this user
Know Your Maureen Dowd: A Quiz
Maureen Dowd cranked us back to the right-wing sonatinas of the 90's to make whatever clever cleaver points she wanted to make. But, then, this is her stock and trade. Bob Herbert, her NYTimes op-ed colleague, took a similar route when he uncivilly and ungraciously wrote that Mrs Clinton was not exiting civilly and graciously by wrapping his points up in Atwater paper tied with a big Rovian ribbon. However, both Miss Dowd and Mr Herbert missed my favorite story of the Clintons trashing the White House upon exit--the removal of all W's from the keyboards. The fact that this is not a fact, should not be a problem for them since they are really just storytellers not serious columnists. posted 05/13/2008 at 12:59:21
Obama Muslim Smear Resurfaces: NYT Op-Ed Tags Obama As Muslim 'Apostate'
The concerns expressed for the sensitivities of foreign nations in our elected and appointed officers are more often, in my view, rooted in internal concerns and reflect internal prejudices. For example, when Mr. James Hormel was appointed by President Clinton to be Ambassador. the homophobia of opponents was disguised as concern for the sensitivities of Luxembourg: when Mrs. Albright was appointed by President Clinton as the first female Secretary of State, the true identity of their sexism was presented as concern for acceptance of a women in Muslin countries. We I read the Luttwak Apostate article in the NYTimes, about Senator Obama, I just put his concerns in the same file cabinet. posted 05/13/2008 at 14:33:51
Obama Sees Finish Line, Clinton Clings To Dwindling Support
Possible solution: Michigan, equal division of the primary votes between Senator Obama and Senator Clinton (she gets votes cast for her, he gets all non-Clinton specified votes); Florida, each keeps just his/her own primary votes cast (all eight candidates were in this race). Apportion the delegates accordingly. No real change of results, Michigan and Florida votes and voters counted; all are seated and we move on against McCain. posted 05/08/2008 at 10:36:44
Big Rewards Await Clinton If She Ends Campaign Now
It seems that, for some, if it means giving any ground to the Clintons to win the presidency for Senator Obama, then they would prefer that he lose, with both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama returning to the senate to voice their dissents to a President McCain. posted 05/07/2008 at 20:51:01
A factor in the decision-making of the Obama campaign for reimbursing the Clinton campaign for primary debts, is the capability that Senator Clinton and former President Clinton have for fund-raising for the Obama general election campaign. Election financing is different for the primary and the general, and access to the Clinton rolodex as well as their personal fund-raising and campaigning on behalf of Senator Obama may be a wise bargain. Remember, all politicians will break your heart from time to time, so we need to look to the longer-term greater good. posted 05/07/2008 at 19:07:53
On an Obama/Clinton Ticket: A Response to Andrew Sullivan
This assumes Senator Clinton supporters are either women or a voting for her only because she is a woman. Also, none of the others mentioned have achieved almost an equal number of delegates and almost half of the Democratic voters in the primary. if not Senator Clinton, then no woman should be chosen. Moreover, it is almost always better to have a candidate tested through a national electoral process. The stakes are too high to hope that unity will come about with either another woman, or a surrogate for Mrs. Clinton. Think McCain and the gang he brings with him to the party. posted 05/06/2008 at 19:04:26
It seems like your position is that if it takes an Obama/Clinton ticket to win, then I would prefer that Senator Obama lose, McCain become president(with a Rick Santorum or some other equally nutty vice president), and both Obama and Clinton return to the senate. posted 05/06/2008 at 15:23:07
It is my observation that some of those who recoil at the idea of an Obama/Clinton ticket are passionate for Senator Obama to win the presidential nomination, but less committed to seeing him win it. After starting with a field of eight well-qualified candidates and ending with two closely separated in delegate count as well as a system (unlike the winner-take-all Republican primaries) of delegate apportionment based on voting, the unassailable strength of such a unity ticket is a forgone conclusion for anyone interested in a Democratic victory. Moreover, under the circumstances, the choice of v.p. should not be the sole province of the presidential nominee. The primary was to identify the presidential nominee; other factors that contribute to electoral viability have historically been used to select running mates. Indeed, in 1956, Adlai Stevenson, the presidential nominee, permitted an open convention so as to play his best hand (Estes Kefauver won the vp spot over John Kennedy). In 1960, Kennedy selected his arch-rival in the primaries, Lyndon Johnson. Without LBJ, Kennedy would not have won Texas, and, hence, would not have been elected. The role of vp , (stand-by equipment, VP Rockefeller once termed it), is what the president wants it to be. However, a president Obama would be well-served by a vp Clinton, both in advice and counsel and assisting him in staying above the fray of Republican thugs. Mrs. Clinton would be good to have at, and on, his side. posted 05/06/2008 at 14:59:44
Democratic Party's Patience For Clinton Wears Thin
Kill, love your criteria. Alf Landon was probably looking goood from all angles in his black wool one-piece bathing suit as compared with Franklin D. Roosevelt in his wheel chair, black cape, cigarette holder, and long bathing trunks to shield his atrophied legs. Wonder why Alf lost in 1936 with his superior look and all? posted 05/02/2008 at 16:24:24
CNN Poll: George Bush Most Unpopular President In Modern History
It is interesting that during confirmation hearings, Supreme Court nominees will not address or even consider questions that might be construed as someday, maybe, coming before the court. Thus, they dodge questions that are of importance; the senators are happy to accommodate. Hypotheticals, too, are just too--well, hypothetical to comment upon. However, a thug like Scalia, a sitting Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, is happy to give quick and dirty answers to an interviewer, such as he did on 60 minutes last Sunday. For example, a question about torture--no, it is not, he said decidedly, cruel and unusual punishment, because no one considers torture as punishment. posted 05/02/2008 at 17:48:03
Leaving Bush to history as one of our most unpopular presidents does not satisfy the place he so justly and rightly deserves. Mr. Bush's record seriously points to one of high crimes and misdemeanors to be constitutionally remedied by impeachment and removal from office. The list of such crimes and misdemeanors is legion, but his flaunting of congressional oversight and disregarding of judicial rulings should be enough to get an impeachment investigation underway. A reading of the NYTimes editorial of today lamenting the criminality of the Bush presidency was frustrating in that no cure was offered, other than waiting for the next president and congress to undo all the ways Bush has twisted or evaded the law. A horrifying example was the testimony of our former chief prosecutor at Guantanamo that orders were given for "no acquittals" of prisoners at tribunals, and reminders that timing of charges could have political value. Bush has assumed the right to lock anyone up for life without appeal if he declared him as an illegal enemy combatant. Even if removed from from office on Bush's very last day, it would serve the constitution and serve notice on future outlaw presidents. posted 05/02/2008 at 14:40:56
Obama's Reverend Wright Press Conference (VIDEO)
Senator Obama is a graduate of Harvard School of Law and held the coveted position of edition of the Harvard Law Review. However, he never held a tenured position at the University or its law school. posted 04/29/2008 at 19:16:04
Is Obama Lincoln to Hillary's Seward?
Seward's folly refers to the then derided purchase of the Alaska Territory from the Russian czar. He become a Lincoln confidant and was a great and visionary Secretary of State. Although he lost, with some bitterness, the Republican presidential nomination in 1860 to Lincoln , and considered himself more experienced and prepared, he joined the Lincoln cabinet to help govern the country in a very difficult time. If there is to be any parallels drawn, it might be the need for the Democratic candidates to forge a unity ticket. Since Obama is likely to receive the most delegates, an Obama/Clinton ticket is needed to save us from a McCain presidency complete with the Bush thugs that will come along with him. Since the Democratic primary is not a winner-take-all delegate calculus, but rather, apportioned on votes, this, in a sense, is in keeping with the process as well. posted 04/28/2008 at 17:06:06
HuffPost Blogger Scoops 60 Minutes
Unfortunately, Scalia, for some unfathomable reason, is also well-regarded by some Democrats. For example, senate majority leader Harry Reid (D.NV), once said that he would not exclude Scalia from consideration as Chief Justice upon Rehnquist's death. He changed his mind quickly after being deluged with correspondence from concerned individuals. Scalia is an Opus Dei-type political operative masquerading as a legal scholar. His brilliance can better be attributed to McCain-like media fawning than anything else. posted 04/27/2008 at 12:34:20
Arianna On John McCain: Hijacked By The Right
Another interesting point that got lost in the mire of Shandling was Maher's question of why a preponderance of the military continue to support Republicans when their policies do not support the military. Apparently, the percentage of Republicans in the military, particularly officers, is greater than that in the general population. However, Maher's point was worthy of discussion but was a throw-away owing to the clock being worn down by the worn out Shandling. posted 04/27/2008 at 11:59:45
I much appreciated Arianna's comments made on the Bill Maher show, particularly those related to the empty candidacy of McCain. She pointed out the "change" of McCain from his 2000 campaign to what we see this time around. However, I would question just how much of a change has really occurred --his actual record (with an attempt at a Keating Five redemption via collaboration with Russ Feingold) has always been one of a right-wing Republican, softened by his "maverick" talk and his good press. Phil Donahue added to the discussion, but the good points of both guests were marred by the presence of Gary Shandling, who was overbearing and added nothing to the show, not even humor. Bill seems to like Shandling, but he either needs to control him, or restrict his relationship to having a beer with him at his favorite bar. posted 04/26/2008 at 13:38:42
Pelosi On The Dream Ticket: "No, I Don't Think It's A Good Idea"
Mrs. Pelosi said, in response to Larry, that she really likes Bush, just his policies (that she funds) she dislikes. The House (unlike the Senate) has a substantial majority--where is her leadership? Even if the senate does not or can not go along, the House is a pulpit for leadership. Why has she not used it more effectively? posted 04/25/2008 at 16:43:50
An Obama/Clinton ticket is necessary to heal and unite the Democratic party. The policies of Senators Obama and Clinton, as well as their senatorial voting records, are pretty close. After this bruising primary, it is understandable that some Obama as well as Clinton supporters would be upset--after all, we are supposed to be fired up for our candidate. But, a coalition ticket would assure an Obama presidency and a Democratic sweep. A likely alternative is four more years of Republican thugs (bet McCain will pick a vp who will help him win, Huckabee? Jeb Bush??, Santorum???). Otherwise, avid supporters of Mr. Obama and Mrs. Clinton will see both of them return to the senate only to work differences out in that venue, as senators must). In a sense, this ticket reflects the Democratic primary process, wherein winners do not take all, but delegates are apportioned on voting. Opponents of this ticket would, I should think, be McCain's ardent followers. posted 04/25/2008 at 15:22:23
Keith Olbermann's Idea For Beating Hillary: Literally Beating Hillary
I'm a man, but I was startled by Keith's comment requiring me to put it into the context of his desire for a negotiation by party elders. I did not think of his expression as misogynistic, but did consider it to conjure up violence to settle the situation. I am a fan of Keith's but he "misspoke" and a more heart-felt explanation, if not necessarily, an apology, would be in line with good sportsmanship--something he does know of. posted 04/25/2008 at 15:51:52
Dems On North Carolina GOP Attack Ad: "Racist Gutter Politics"
The McCain disavowal and, then, continuation by the state Republicans, is as disingenuous as the "slip" of inadmissible comments by an attorney in front of a jury, with the judge's admonition to disregard. McCain is a part of the fray, not above it. Moreover, he is walking on eggs with his supporters who are (if you can believe it) even more right-wing that he is. For example, the Republicans also had a primary in PA, and between Huckabee and Paul (both of whom are out of the race) they received 27 percent of the Republican primary vote. posted 04/24/2008 at 16:06:12
Long Primary Damaging Democrats
Maybe the time is ripe for the 2008-equivalent of the old smokey-room negotiations by political king (queen)makers in fedoras. Senators Clinton and Obama are good candidates and have major constituencies. Neither has achieved the needed number of delegates but the odds are much in favor of Senator Obama doing so, but only after additional risks for success in November. Mrs Clinton is riding well at the moment and negotiations at this time concludes the primary with a semblance of dignity. Prior to the next primary, a deal should be struck between campaigns and the super delegates for an Obama/Clinton ticket. The deal should include resolution of the Florida and Michigan situations, with an equal split of Michigan delegates and each keeping his or her own Florida delegates and dividing equally those of the other six candidates..Some Obama supporters would be dissapointed, if not upset. They would like to "get rid" of Senator Clinton. It will not happen. She is a US Senator with four-years remaining in her term. She would be more of an asset within the Obama administration, and, of course, assure victory in the general election. Clinton supporters, like Mrs Clinton, are pragmatic, and, while also likely to be upset at first, would grow into the idea. Without a united Democratic party to face off with McCain, both Obama and Clinton supporters will be upset when they return to the senate, and, the country will be in serious jeopardy with McCain as president. posted 04/24/2008 at 12:45:09
Zelduh, This is really bad advise. I hope no one, including you, take it. Just lie down for a while and maybe some of your anger will pass. The country is in a fix and heading in the wrong direction on every front--war, peace, economy (fiscal and monetary). McCain and his Republican apparatchiks will just dig us in deeper with a McCain administration peopled with the same Bush thugs. If Democratic solidarity cannot be achieved with one of the two remaining candidates, I would not hope for consolidated Democratic leadership among hundreds of congressional members. The system is not geared for it. The past two years of Democratic leadership, with a good majority in the House and control of the Senate agenda (albeit shy of the votes needed to overturn a presidential veto) do not augur well for the future, even with a greater majority. Congressional Democrats will roll over for a new Republican president just as they did for Bush, at least for the first critical years. Get over yourself, hold your nose, if you must, and vote for the Democratic nominee. posted 04/23/2008 at 16:16:30
McCain: "I Am Aware Of The Fact That There Will Be Many People Who Will Not Vote For Me"...
The most amazing notion is that McCain would get any votes at all--with the country in the fix it is in, owing to the fine work of the Republicans, why would we not, at least, try to reverse course with a Democrat? posted 04/21/2008 at 15:43:13
Secretary Gates Slams Air Force: Getting Them To Send Equipment To Iraq "Like Pulling Teeth"
There, clearly, is more here than meets the eye. The very fact that the Secretary of Defense makes a public statement admonishing a branch of the armed services for not meeting its wartime responsibilities is stunning. Are we dealing with a coup? Gross insubordination? An Air Force message to the country? Whatever it is, we need to know more--someone and something is out-of-control. We need, fast, an investigation by the Armed Services Committees of the House and Senate. An urgency is sensed that does not permit us to wait until Bush is out of there. posted 04/21/2008 at 16:12:44
The Pentagon's Corrupt Sock Puppet "Military Analysts" Exposed
Good post, JayD, but why do you let Colin Powell off the hook, by proclaiming that he, unlike these corrupt and compromised military officers, did not act with self-serving motives? posted 04/21/2008 at 11:55:42
Obama Hamas Ties Pushed In McCain Letter: So Much For "Respectful" Campaign
How about a photo-replica of McCain sensually hugging Bush (with an international slash through it) as a bumper sticker. Bush should be McCain's most deadly endorser. posted 04/18/2008 at 19:15:31
McCain Tax Returns: Latest News
You are right. Without his giving it to charity, guess he would not deserve that compliment given to a stopped clock. posted 04/18/2008 at 17:48:34
At last, I finally found one thing in McCain's favor ( sort of like a half compliment to a clock for being right twice a day), And that one thing is that he did take the social security disbursement he was due. Andrew Mellon, a member of FDR's cabinet at the time of social security's enactment and one of the richest men in America, proclaimed that he would always take the new social security check, since the social security idea was not to be income-based or considered welfare. In this manner, social security would be a stable and secure safety net for all Americans, reasonably immune from demagogic cutbacks. Mellon, in turn, donated his social security payment to charity. posted 04/18/2008 at 15:44:41
Krugman: Obama Clinging To A Stereotype
Professor Krugman's discussion of the accuracy of the statement of Senator Obama did not come across to me as a polemic (cf Today's NYTimes colulmn "How Obama Fell to Earth, by David Brooks, for a sterling example of such). Rather, it was based on the differences in view of Thomas Franks (What's the Matter with Kansas?") and Dr. Larry Bartel's, a professorial colleague at Princeton. My take is that Professor Bartel's is quite right in the reason for the shift of the southern states from Democrat to Republican, but I am not entirely convinced by his other arguments (e.g, no consideration of parent to child political leaning). Never-the-less, an argument similar to that of Dr. Krugman's was made earlier this week by Bob Herbert, a staunch Obama supporter. The bigger message I took away was not so much the sociologic rationales to voting patterns, but the real need for a meaningful federal economic program to assist so many very needy, working people and to restore a bedrock middle class posted 04/18/2008 at 14:15:30
Clinton Labor Secretary Robert Reich Endorses Obama
Guess you take endorsements where you can get them, but David Boren (the closeted homo) and Sam Nunn (the out homophobe) are two I would like Senator Obama to say, Thanks, but no thanks. These guys political records are more closely aligned with McCain's and would be more comfortable in his camp. posted 04/19/2008 at 15:27:28
Hume Boren and Nunn would seem to be more comfortable in the McCain camp. posted 04/18/2008 at 14:43:34
I am a Papal Party Pooper
Ryy,Which is the greatest sin in the Catholic Church's lexicon of sins, killing and genocide or perils of secularism and social issues, such as stem-cell research? Hurrying up because he is 81-years old ignores the institution of the Church and the orderly process for papal succession; if not him, there will be another. Berettassk, The Pope's presence speaks louder than his words, either live or in public relations releases. A trip to the UN and a simple meetings with his flock should be adequate to bring his message. posted 04/17/2008 at 11:54:36
The Pope has spoken against American's role in the Iraq war, yet accepts the grand hospitality of the leader of that war machine--a machine that even abrogates the patina of decency in military conflicts embodied by the Geneva Conventions. Where is the Pope's modeling of moral leadership? Why is he making his first trip to the US as pope at this time? Why not wait until the next U.S. president is in office? Even secular leaders are considering absenting themselves from the Olympics to register their disdain for the abuse of human rights. posted 04/16/2008 at 17:34:46
Bush To Pope Benedict: "Thank You, Your Holiness. Awesome Speech"
Zen, :You win das priz. posted 04/16/2008 at 13:38:56
Stephen Colbert Sings To Michelle Obama
Mrs. Obama was great. Even though Stephen Colbert was a funny and gracious interviewer, he did give an opportunity for Mrs. Obama to enter the heat of the campaign, for example, with the question about her becoming a presidential candidate following her husband's term in office in keeping with the way it now seems to go. However, she stayed above the fray, bantering with Colbert in a self-effacing comment that one Obama after eight-years would be enough. Moreover, her comment on the competition between Democratic candidates strengthening prospects for victory against the Republican candidate in fall was well said. posted 04/16/2008 at 12:44:07
Fox News Anchor's Son, Peter Doocy, Asks John McCain About Hillary's Drinking On Hardball College Tour
You sound enlightened; do yourself a favor, transfer to Penn. posted 04/16/2008 at 16:15:14
McCain, I must acknowledge, is improving. While not exactly a spellbinder, he can now speak almost as proficiently as Bush. As a sign of his development, in response to that alcohol fetal-syndrome kid's question about Mrs. Clinton, he did not, at least, dredge up his side-splitter about why Chelsea is, in his view, unattractive. Chris Matthews would have given a good, ha! and the students would have been rolling in the aisles. posted 04/16/2008 at 13:26:34
CindyK, McCain could not even answer a question given to him in advance by this Fox kid. "Whatever makes Senator Clinton happy----um, ah, um, ...saved by Villanova scholars who will laugh at anything to do with drinking. posted 04/16/2008 at 13:03:24
Chris Matthews Tells Colbert: "I Want To Be A Senator"
Chris Matthews (aka Tweety} looks in his mirror and see s great man, when, in fact, he is just seeing a saliva-covered image of a political hack commentator. He is pumped up on what he believes are flattering controversies. The NYTimes Sunday Magazine article with glossy cover picture sent him over the edge and into a zone of unreality. posted 04/15/2008 at 14:21:52
Rumsfeld Memoir to Be Published in 2010
Golly, henny penny....anyone who purchases Rummy's book should be charged with complicity in war crimes and be required to read his screed while standing up with a reading light of flashing disco globes. Oh, and waterboarding comes with the epilogue. posted 04/15/2008 at 11:54:23
McCain More Conservative Than His Image
The next president will probably appoint three or four Supreme Court justices, influencing the nature of the country for the next three or four decades. McCain would bring us such fine legal minds as Lindsay Graham and right-wing members of the Federalist Society. posted 04/14/2008 at 14:40:36
New York Mayor Bloomberg May Seek A 3rd Term: Report
Extend term limits, cancel elections, How did this work out for Rudy Guiliani? posted 04/13/2008 at 16:49:42
Wesley Clark for VP!
Even if the vice presidential role is returned to the more traditional one of attendance at the funerals of foreign dignitaries, Powell may not fit the the job description. Powell may be too busy defending himself at the Hague, or at a minimum, avoiding arrest by ducking out of kitchen exits of European hotels. Besides, why would Senator Obama want a Bush thug as part of his team? posted 04/14/2008 at 12:08:05
The most asssured victory for Senator Obama as president would, in my view, be with an Obama/Clinton ticket. Those likely to vote for a Democrat are almost equally divided and Senator Obama will need to be a uniter for inclusive enthusiasm, monetary support and, of course, votes. This would surely be difficult for some (as it was when Kennedy picked Johnson as his running mate) but Senator Obama is a good and realistic politician. Mrs. Clinton would also recognize her responsibility to move ahead in the interest of the country. If Mrs. Clinton is not his choice, no other woman should be chosen nor should an active Clinton supporter, such as General Clark. The political calculus should then rely on a fresh slate so as to coalesce factions anew. That approach, hopefully, would be successful as well, but it seems risky and worrisome given the alternate prospect of a McCain presidency, and both Mr. Obama and Mrs. Clinton returning to the senate. posted 04/13/2008 at 15:47:34
Alberto Gonzales Finding It Tough To Land A New Job
No, I think we should utilize his legal training. How about putting him in the Sheriff's orange jumpsuit and have him pick-up trash around a courthouse? posted 04/12/2008 at 19:42:22
Condi Rice as VP? Richard Clarke and Dana Priest Call Her 'Worst' Ever
For a while there i thought Dana Priest was an operative on the McCain bus. When Bill Maher noted that "national security expert" McCain serially mixed up Shites and Sunnis, Ms. Priest assured us that McCain does know the difference. I guess, because she just knows so and besides, McCain is accessible when he needs free coverage. 60 minutes had another great Condoleezza moment in a video clip of testimony at an Iraq corruption hearing of Congressman Henry Waxman. It was classic Rice, she did not know anything about the issue, but she would get back to Waxman on the matter--six months later, still no word. posted 04/14/2008 at 13:02:00
Ms. Rice's travels may be, in fact, be producing taxpayer economies in that her international social visits and shopping sprees keep her from actually doing something that would be even more expensive, like selling wars and the like. posted 04/12/2008 at 17:26:29
Sunday Roundup
In Frank Rich's otherwise insightful NYTimes column of today, he cites Colin Powell's name as an authority on the unsustainability of current troop levels in Iraq and the damage being done to our readiness to meet other security threats. Apparently, Powell's opinion is being used in conjuction with the Army's sitting vice chief of staff's (General Richard Cody) analysis so as to rehabilitate a MSM darling who went astray a bit just being a "good soldier". Aside from the fact that Powell has been retired from the army for 15 years and his expert information is second-handed, at best, the reality is that Powell is one of the Bush thugs, who took a starring role in the deceptions and lies of the Iraq war. Even Ashcroft has a superior moral compass, it seems. posted 04/13/2008 at 15:06:43
George Bush: I Was Aware Of Harsh Tactics Meetings
Oh, but Colin Powell disagreed with these bad people and stayed on so that he could change the character of the likes of Cheney, Rummy et.al. Continuing to work on the inside, rather than resign, he was able to get the time for immersion of the head in water reduced from 7 minutes to 6. We always knew you were better than the rest of these thugs. posted 04/12/2008 at 15:41:58
Report: Spy Photos Reveal 'Secret Launch Site' For Iran's Long-Range Missiles
I believe, in the words of the prescient Secretary of State Rice, that this is a "grave and gathering danger". Moreover, I heard at the barber shop that Iranian exile sources on our payroll have learned that Iran has attempted to purchase yellow-cake uranium from Niger, and that there is solid evidence to prove it, including documents signed by the Minister of the Mines. Gosh, we cannot get McCain in office soon enough for my taste since Bush and Cheney are too faint-hearted to bomb early and fast enough to address this imminent threat. posted 04/12/2008 at 15:31:16
Cheney, Others OK'd Harsh Interrogations
I wonder what revelation it will take for all the Colin Powell fans to finally realize that he is just one of the Bush thugs complicit, through action (e.g. the infamous UN speech) or inaction (e.g. remaining silent) in the criminal actions of the Bush administration. The Geneva Conventions were designed to protect both sides in a conflict, and their abrogation by permitting or overlooking torture put United States military at risk--something you would think a former General would be concerned about. If Powell was honorable (an arguable premise) he would have followed the path of a predecessor, Cyrus Vance, Secretary of State in the Carter administration who resigned because he could not support the ill-fated Iranian hostage rescue. But Powell seemed to like the job too much, and knew that disloyalty to all things Bush was a cardinal sin. He would lose influence and even jeopardize his son Michael's right-wing leadership of the FCC. posted 04/11/2008 at 14:51:41
Randi Rhodes Blames Air America's New Owners On Larry King: "This Is Really About Them Wanting To Change My Contract"
According to the post, Randi quit--terminating her employment agreement. Air America suspended her for her remarks at an Air American sponsored event. Maybe it was a negotiated ending, but it looks like Randi will be going to San Francisco with flowers in her hair. posted 04/10/2008 at 12:51:48
Petraeus and Crocker: Déjà Vu All Over Again
It seems clear that notions of the Bush administration having no plan is untrue. There is, and has always been, a plan. The plan is to have an Iraqi government that is, essentially, a client state; to experiment with neocon economic policies, to enrich cronies, and to have military bases to protect oil and other Middle-east interests. These, and other objectives, will require a permanent U.S. military presence. McCain's 100-year war seems to have been just inside information that he, no rocket scientist, let slip. All the rest is just show biz, with more American and Iraqi lives and limbs lost while we continue to borrow from China, Japan and Mexico to pay for this disaster until our economy goes completely over the cliff. posted 04/10/2008 at 15:51:24
Colin Powell Says Obama Handled Reverend Wright Issue "Well".. Wright "Has Made Enormous Contributions"...
Many prominent individuals grant compliments to Senator Obama, and, why not, he has earned them. However, that does not release the person who granted the compliment from his deeds. If Tom Delay should compliment Senator Obama, it would not erase his dastardly record. Cyrus Vance, Secretary of State under President Carter, resigned rather than agree to Carter's ill-fated attempt to rescue American hostages in Iran. That would have been the right thing for Powell to do, but no, he would stay to change Wolfie, Rummy, Cheney and Bush, right. posted 04/10/2008 at 14:40:46
It is difficult to believe that Powell had "no idea" where the information he was pushing had come from. But he pushed it all the same, probably convincing many war skeptics who still thought that he was on the side of truth. More likely, he chose not to delve too deeply least he jeopardize his future, or, even more likely (based on his mastery of bureaucratic and political schemes learned since service in the Reagan/Daddy Bush administrations) he worked all sides of the issue, leaving as little of his fingerprints on the scam as possible. Did he know that the little vial of white powder that he waved about during his UN speech on the absolute necessity of war did not consist of anthrax? posted 04/10/2008 at 14:27:38
Colin Powell has, in my view, no credibility on national affairs. This opinion is not a function of who he may support-Senator Obama, Senator Clinton, Senator McCain, or his colleagues Bush and Cheney. Indeed, credibility is the least of my concerns for him; a good hearing on his contributions should be scheduled at the Hague. posted 04/10/2008 at 12:35:12
Colin Powell has enjoyed his 15-years of fame at the country's expense. Things are looking good for Senator Obama and, typically, Powell sees a new chance to help himself and his son. Powell's background is replete with opportunism--from protection of his boss, the pardoned felon, Sec of Defense Weinberger, in the Iran-Contra scandal, to his insubordination in the case of newly elected President Clinton's proposal for eliminating discrimination in the armed services, to his complicity in the deceptions used to sell the Iraq invasion and occupation. His UN speech to the world should have been sufficiently humiliating for him to stay under cover for the next 100-years, where he could clandestinely coach McCain, his true friend, on the fine points of keeping the war going as planned. This would, of course, depend on what the polls show. posted 04/10/2008 at 12:10:25
Andrew Sullivan: Bush Administration Officials Will Be 'Indicted For War Crimes'
While not a fan of Andrew Sullivan's political ideology, save for his rather recent awakening on the evils of the Bush administration and the mistake that is the Iraq war, Mr. Sullivan's allowing of the question of war crimes to be publicly raised serves a useful purpose. Surely, it creates chills for some of these thugs as they envision themselves avoiding arrest warrants by fleeing through the kitchen exits of European hotels--an real experience that can be related by their senior colleague, Henry Kissinger. It would be a great start just to get one of these guys (name a guy, any guy maybe starting down the food chain a bit, with Wolfie or Feith) hauled before an aggressive and courageous justice, such as the one that caused Pinochet his well-earned grief. posted 04/07/2008 at 15:54:38
What Did Bill Clinton Do To Get $15M From Ron Burkle?
Dear J.P. You make good points. My point attempts to give a perspective to this post on the Clinton's income report that is other than the forensic accountancy offered, apparently,from some very uncomfortable computer swivel-chairs. It seems as if some of these commentators are picking up where Ken Starr left off, but with more zeal and less professionalism, if that were possible. All that appears to be missing is Ken's black plastic garbage bag and his cracked driveway. posted 04/05/2008 at 15:36:29
The Clinton's know that their income information will become public and, it seems reasonable to believe that all will be in order. With Mrs. Clinton's highly visible senate role and plans for a presidential race, they certainly anticipated ongoing scrutiny. . Early investigations, such as the $40 million investigation by two special prosecutors, proved unrelenting. The first prosecutor, Robert Fiske, came up empty-handed, so he was summarily replaced by a second, the partisan Ken Starr, who took over, on the recommendation of Judge David Sentelle, after getting his marching orders from the infamous right-wing North Carolina senators then in office. That investigation, too, would have fizzled without having been facilitated by that right-wing anathema-- science, in the form of DNA. No financial evidence of wrong doing, just personal bad judgment with public consequences. Former presidents have capitalized on their fame in one way or another. For example, Grant, who was almost destitute, prepared for his wife's future with the proceeds of his great war memoir; Eisenhower's farm in Gettysburg, was enabled with the aid of Republican "friends"; but Gerald Ford moved it to the next level, by marketing not only himself, but also, his entire family through the William Morris Agency. posted 04/05/2008 at 13:18:00
McCain to Meet With Secret Service
The Secret Service must have convinced McCain that they can keep secrets. posted 04/04/2008 at 14:34:11
McCain Booed At Martin Luther King Speech: Watch The Video
I just hope that all supporters of Senator Clinton and Senator Obama who claim that they will vote for McCain (or even not vote at all) if their candidate is not the Democratic nominee will learn more about the Republican nominee as well as refresh their memories about the character of the Republican party that comes along with him. The real McCain is not the real McCoy--but, rather, a confection of a fawning MSM. posted 04/04/2008 at 14:26:23
Obama Advisor: 60,000 Troops Should Stay In Iraq Through 2010
If Senator Obama is looking for advice on the rate and feasibility of troop withdrawals (and don't forget, contractors and soldiers of fortune their in numbers equal to our troops) he should listen to his new best friend, Gov. Richardson. Richardson, in all of the Democratic debates, called for the immediate withdrawal of all troops. posted 04/05/2008 at 14:14:12
The policy that we must continue the funding of the war (and even enlarge it) so as to support the troops does not make sense to me, unless we are, in fact, supporting a l00-year war. The war funding should be decreased in accord with a schedule for reducing troop levels, and, concurrently, reducing the number (about the same as the number of troops at present) of war contractors, such as Blackwater security forces and other soldiers of fortune. The bulk of faculty members of the "go very slow" school of withdrawal have been wrong about most of the policies that have gotten us into this mess. We need to face it, withdrawal at any pace will be painful for all; there is no certain evidence that slow withdrawal will be much worse for our national security and for the welfare of the Iraqi people than a quick and ordered combat troop withdrawal along with a reasonable number of residual police-like forces for embassy and other security. A political companion to troop withdrawal should be partitioning of the country into more secure sections recognizing the 1300-year old differences between groups. Much of this has already happened, it just needs to be codified. Senator Obama should reject any advisor's thinking that relies on tired paradigms--it is time for a change. posted 04/04/2008 at 15:17:39
Jay Leno Apologizes For Gay Remarks
Ryan Philipoe has a few insecurity issues, and was embarrassed by the naked commercial? Gee, he stated that he did the commercial when he was 19 and he is now 33 and is trying to portray himself as a serious actor.. Not performing, on Leno's cue, to the role he had when he was 18 seemed mature rather than insecure. posted 04/02/2008 at 19:43:25
Ryan Phillippe is an actor and apparently not a Rhodes scholar, but at least he did not respond by mentioning his lovely wife and children, or proclaiming that he is not gay and has never been gay and that he loves his wife. posted 04/02/2008 at 15:46:36
Yes, making fun of gay people is a staple of Jay Leno's opening monolog, reliably aided and abetted by his very homophobic band leader, Kevin. If nothing else, it was clearly painful for Ryan Phillippe to endure this ridicule, but he handled it pretty well trying to balance the immaturity of Leno and an actor's need for exposure. posted 04/02/2008 at 11:56:47
Obama Casts Race Between Him, McCain
It is none too soon to bring the dangers of a McCain presidency to the American people's attention. McCain is doddering and out-of-touch. Temperamentally, he is hot headed and cold hearted, as illustrated by his penchant for solving disputes with military actions and his brushing off people problems, such as mortgage foreclosures. With his MSM "pals" getting out to push his disabled bus, it will be necessary for the Democrats to bring McCain's character flaws and incompetence to the electorate early and often. posted 04/01/2008 at 20:27:09
It is none too soon to expose McCain as being not only doddering but temperamentally unsuited for the presidency. He is hot headed and cold hearted, neither characteristic bodes well for dealing with complex international issues and domestic matters. With the MSM pushing his disabled bus, his character flaws as well as his ignorance of basic issues, such as the difference between Sunnis and Shites after five-years of war, and his acknowledged lack of economic understandings, need to be brought to the electorate's attention early and often. posted 04/01/2008 at 20:18:27
John "McNasty" McCain Revisits His Former High School
McCain is clearly doddering and temperamentally unfit--hot headed and cold hearted. posted 04/01/2008 at 19:45:09
, McCain is clearly doddering and temperamentally unfit--hot headed and cold hearted. posted 04/01/2008 at 19:44:08
McCain On Housing Crisis: "I Don't Know How To Pursue That"
Sounds a little harsh and reeks of embitterment. Lay down for a while and maybe it will pass. posted 04/02/2008 at 16:59:34
Well this settles the "title dispute". McCain is the senior lecturer! posted 04/01/2008 at 17:31:50
Stop-Loss: Another Hollywood Iraq Film Misses the Mark
Dear Paul, I, too, want to thank you for all your efforts on behalf of Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans. While I note, with interest, your review of the movie, Stop-Loss, I do plan to see it, although i will wait until it is available through my Netflix subscription. Based upon your assessment, that should be only a short-time. That having been said, whenever we are keenly knowledgeable of a situation or practice and it is inaccurately portrayed by Hollywood or, even, a reporter, we tend to dismiss the whole, with the notion that if they didn't get such-and-such right how could they be right about anything. However, unless grossly inaccurate in the big message, we may have to overlook the smaller inconsistencies. Stereotyping hooks an audience--not the best thing to do, but a tried and true way to sell the product, and, it saves pages and pages of script. If the telling of the story rekindles the disaster that is the Iraq war and awakens a few more Americans, maybe it can redeem itself, a little.. posted 04/01/2008 at 14:48:09
John McCain "Surprised" By Recent Iraq Developments
I am having a hard time fathoming the apparent fact that McCain is a serious contender for president of the United States. Based on the Bush fiasco over the past seven years and McCain's faithful support (not his "maverick" p.r), and his dubious achievement as last man standing, first pygmy among equals Republican who is long-in-the-tooth and short-in-the brains, the polls should be 80 per cent for any Democrat (even Gravel) and, maybe, 20 per cent for McCain. McCain's ossified policies and positions make General Curtis LeMay look Gandhian and Herbert Hoover look Keynesian. What's with the electorate? posted 03/31/2008 at 14:50:42
Clinton Misrepresents Obama's Professor Credentials
The University of Chicago's news release rather than bringing clarity, adds confusion. At one point it states that the University "regards" Senior Lecturers as professors, and, later, states decidedly that Obama served as a professor for 12 years. But the first four of these years, it states that he was a Lecturer, an adjunct status apparently not regarded as a Senior Lecturer leaving the statement of serving as a professor from 1992 to 2004 confusing by their own hand. The news release states that Obama was offered a tenure-track position (that he declined) not a tenured position as some posts claim. Also the use of "regards" is curious when consideration is given to the University's own Faculty Handbook . How students refer to faculty members (of any rank or even a teaching assistant) is not the point, nor is it their responsibility to be accurate. It is how faculty members represent themselves to others. Also, raising the issue of tenure or no tenure aids and abets the confusion. The issue is the accurate representation of academic ranks and the achievement attached to the rank of professor, not one of tenure. While typically, Associate Professor and Professor are tenured positions, it is not necessarily so. Some institutions do not offer tenure at any rank. Senior Lecturer is a prestigious position afforded to practitioners who bring their expertise and experience to the classroom. Professional colleges of all sorts deploy such appointmentsin recognition of critical teaching contributions. posted 03/31/2008 at 18:19:11
Joe Lieberman Likens John McCain To JFK
Maybe Lieberman was thinking of the commonality of being compromised by women: JKF and his friend Judith Exner (friend of Chicago mafia head, Sam Giancana) and McCain and his friend, Vicki Iseman (lobbyist for communication giants). posted 03/30/2008 at 17:57:42
University Of Chicago: Obama Was A Professor
Cackal, Why send your son off to college and risk his learning something? Continue your home schooling so that he will be as smart and funny as you. posted 03/28/2008 at 22:48:56
sorry about the wrong there, there. posted 03/28/2008 at 18:56:55
Dear Deutchs, I would not, necessarily, expect students to know the differences in academic ranks--the important point for students is the teaching skills not the academic titles. But the teacher knows, or should know, the difference. Professors are more than teachers, they are expected to contribute to the knowledge of their fields. Go Left, I do not see Senator Obama's academic title as insignificant, only not that of professor. Professional colleges depend on expert, part-time practitioners to deliver their curricula. As cited, the University of Chicago School of Law has many distinquished Senior Lecturers and their is nothing wrong with that. SShaw, their are full-time and part-time professors, and they may have modifiers such as Clinical Professor or Adjunct Professor. Tenure is not relevant to my clarification; some Universities do not provide tenure and their professors are, therefore, not tenured. posted 03/28/2008 at 18:54:00
The University of Chicago press release is confusing and at odds with the University of Chicago Faculty Handbook. It is quite accurate to say that Senator Obama was on the faculty of the University's School of Law from 1992 to 2004, but it loses its way when it blankets that faculty service as being a professor, and when it claims that Senior Lecturers are regarded as professors.. He was, in fact, a Lecturer for the first four years, a junior academic position closer to an instructor's rank than any of the professorial ranks of assistant professor, associate professor or professor (full). Senator Obama was part-time, with the title of Senior Lecturer from 1996 until he went on leave upon election to the US. Senate. Senior Lecturer is a title given to a faculty member, usually part-time, who is a distinquished practitoner or jurist (such as Federal Judge Richard Posner). However, their is no need to embroider credentials: a professor denotes serious scholarly achievement in teaching, research, service to the University and community, and contributions to the intellectual legal community. Senior Lecturers are not fully integrated into the governance system. All of this may seem trivial, unless you value merit and hierarchies. Not all military officers, for example, are generals; not all bishops are cardinals--and it is not acceptable to claim the same for yourself. posted 03/28/2008 at 16:45:34
Barack Obama On "The View": Barbara Says, "You're Very Sexy!"
Bill, Thanks for the link; I did not bother to look at the 30 second clips, let alone the sermon for I, personally, found the whole issue rather foolish. None of us can be held responsible for the sermons or dogma of a particular pastor or even, religion, nor subscribe to all of the interpretations of theology (or politics). Catholics, for example, cherry-pick all the time while remaining "good Catholics" in their own mind all of their lives. However, with your assistance, I did find the Reverend's remarks interesting even though not usually enamored by performing preachers of any denomination. posted 03/28/2008 at 15:23:40
John McCain Drills For Cash At Denver's Petroleum Club
An op-ed column in today's NYTimes by Neal Gabler discusses the reason reporters love McCain. The up-shot of the opinion piece is that McCain is an ironist wooing a group of individuals calling themselves reporters who regard irony more highly than sincerity or seriousness. Reporters, and not necessarily commentators, according to Gabler, shape their news stories favorably for McCain because he is their "pal". Importantly, they cover up his little old gaffes because of these feelings for him (something unheard of in the case of either Senator Clinton or Senator Obama.) My sense of the article was that this was all seen as good strategy rather than as an appalling admission of journalistic corruption. It means that the best hope for uncovering the danger of a McCain candidacy is to get videos out of all his appearances and speeches unedited. Certainly, any reportage will be presented better than if edited by the McCain campaign itself (but then, the MSM will be an integral part of the campaign and is more valuable than any funds that he may raise).. posted 03/26/2008 at 19:39:15
Paul Krugman: Partying Like It's 1929
Professor Krugman is a great teacher; he often simplifies rather complex economic issues. This article is an excellent example. Moreover, the country owes him a debt of gratitude for his early and, certainly, at the time, courageous critiques of Bush policies, including the insane Iraq war (too bad that the publisher and editor did not heed his opinions during the run-up to the war, rather than to Scooter Libby via Judith Miller). By the way, the NYTimes is available for purchase @l.25 a copy. I always find it an interesting base for current events, business news, and entertainment. While it does not carry comic strips or cartoons, Bill Kristol's columns are a suitable substitute. posted 03/22/2008 at 15:30:27
McCain Spiritual Guide Accused Gov't Of Enabling 'Black Genocide'
I thought Vicki Iseman was McCain's spirits advisor. posted 03/21/2008 at 15:11:39
McCain Fundraising DROPS In February Despite Being Nominee
Vicki was spotted in the lobby of a hotel in Outer Mongolia; it was reported that she is having such a great time that she will not return until November 5. posted 03/21/2008 at 17:48:09
McCain best of a weak field? Gee, I kinda liked Fred. How about "McCain/Thompson aught -eight?" posted 03/21/2008 at 17:36:50
Among critical priorities for the next president are to responsibly disengage from the Iraq war and to address the country's fiscal and monetary crisis. Both are necessary to our national security and each is linked to the other. McCain sees the Iraq war as going swimmingly, although we still need to have a military presence there for 100-years (maybe only 95 years, if he will count the first five-years). McCain admits to never grasping governmental economics, although he did state that he will buy Alan Greenspan's new book to bone- up (let us hope that he skips the chapters on the value of subprine mortagages and protracted low interest rates). As to the linkage between war and expenses, McCain apparently does not think that borrowing from China, Japan, Mexico and Arab nations at the rate of $15 billion a month has consequences for the economy. Moreover, McCain does not come alone--he brings with him the Republican party and a sure continuation of the neocon infrastructure, Bush cronies and crooks. The troika of McCain, Lieberman and Lindsay Graham are just the "smartest" part of the team, we would also get the rest of them just thown in for bad measure. After eight years of Republican disaster and debacle on both foreign and domestic fronts, with public opinion against the war and for early withdrawl, and with a precarious financial future requiring attention, McCain should be given a courteous laugh, and the country should move on.. posted 03/21/2008 at 15:42:19
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