May 17, 2008
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SamanthaJaneSalem
Recent comments by this user
Electing Sweetie
Bush Uses Holy Land Pulpit to Launch Smear Campaign
When Senator Clinton said she would "obliterate Iran" if it ever attacked Israel, we were reminded how much we need diplomacy back in the White House. Politicians are supposed to do one thing really well-- be political. The man (or woman) on the street can say the first thing that comes to mind, and "tell it like it is"-- but politicians need to be aware of the impact of their words. And the person we elect as president should be extraordinarily gifted in his or her ability to choose the right words for the right occasion.
A better response would have been: "I'm going to make sure Iran never attacks Israel because we don't want to imagine the consequences of such an attack, and I'm confident we can establish a relationship of peace with Iran." Cool down the rhetoric, not heat it up. And always remember the millions of innocent lives even in countries with hostile governments. Remember all those America-loving Iranians reading Nabokov in Tehran? Not a happy thought that our president would be obliterating them.
After eight years of this kind of talk, we need someone in the White House who handles language with skill and has a level-headed approach to life. That's Barack Obama. And the smears against him regarding Israel are about one thing: race. There's the perception of an historical rift between blacks and Jews and Boehner, Bush and McCain are trying to exploit that to obscure Obama's true commitment to Israel. posted 05/15/2008 at 16:51:40
A better response would have been: "I'm going to make sure Iran never attacks Israel because we don't want to imagine the consequences of such an attack, and I'm confident we can establish a relationship of peace with Iran." Cool down the rhetoric, not heat it up. And always remember the millions of innocent lives even in countries with hostile governments. Remember all those America-loving Iranians reading Nabokov in Tehran? Not a happy thought that our president would be obliterating them.
After eight years of this kind of talk, we need someone in the White House who handles language with skill and has a level-headed approach to life. That's Barack Obama. And the smears against him regarding Israel are about one thing: race. There's the perception of an historical rift between blacks and Jews and Boehner, Bush and McCain are trying to exploit that to obscure Obama's true commitment to Israel. posted 05/15/2008 at 16:51:40
Massive Blowback To NARAL's Obama Endorsement
"Hillary Clinton's Anti-Abortion Strategy" (1/26/05)
http://www.slate.com/id/2112712/ posted 05/15/2008 at 14:21:17
http://www.slate.com/id/2112712/ posted 05/15/2008 at 14:21:17
Clinton supporters should be happy she didn't get Sean Penn's endorsement. What the hell was he talking about? posted 05/15/2008 at 14:12:04
I was shocked a few years ago when Senator Clinton gave an address on abortion in which she said it should be "safe, legal and *never*." It was seen at the time as centrist positioning for a possible presidential run. posted 05/15/2008 at 14:05:29
Great post. Every time I try to like her, I see an interview like the one she gave Brian Williams yesterday where she said pledged delegates aren't really pledged and showed a Bush-like stubbornness about reality.
I don't trust her. She will continue to run as the shadow nominee, waiting for her opportunity to stage a protest in Denver or cook up a last minute scandal about Obama then snatch the nomination from him like Angela Lansbury in the classic Frankenheimer movie. The undecided superdelegates aren't the key-- those who have endorsed her, such as Schumer, Feinstein and Boxer, need to switch to Obama. posted 05/15/2008 at 13:24:51
I don't trust her. She will continue to run as the shadow nominee, waiting for her opportunity to stage a protest in Denver or cook up a last minute scandal about Obama then snatch the nomination from him like Angela Lansbury in the classic Frankenheimer movie. The undecided superdelegates aren't the key-- those who have endorsed her, such as Schumer, Feinstein and Boxer, need to switch to Obama. posted 05/15/2008 at 13:24:51
This is what happens when you have a nominee. Senator Clinton herself should endorse Barack Obama. posted 05/15/2008 at 13:04:42
Bush Compares Obama To Nazi Appeasers
Bush vs. Reagan, Nixon, FDR, JFK, Obama, Reality, World, Golf
Bush is taking on all "evil-doers" and shooting for a 10% approval rating. posted 05/15/2008 at 13:14:27
Bush is taking on all "evil-doers" and shooting for a 10% approval rating. posted 05/15/2008 at 13:14:27
Joe Biden: "This is bullshit." Biden's so awesome! posted 05/15/2008 at 12:38:18
Obama Hamas Smear: Clinton Says It Shouldn't Be Taken Seriously
Thanks, Senator Clinton, but after you brought up Hamas yourself in the Gibson-Stephanopolous Obama Bashfest, I'll have to file this under "T" for "Too Little, Too Late." However, a strong speech praising Obama in Denver will restore those old feelings of admiration. posted 05/14/2008 at 16:47:13
John Edwards Endorses Obama... GOP Prospects "Worst Since Watergate"
Kucinich endorsed Obama right after dropping out. posted 05/14/2008 at 18:10:21
Excellent points! posted 05/14/2008 at 16:33:00
A nominee emerges-- and John Edwards reappears on TV. I hope he will be President Obama's Attorney General, but I think this shows a lack of principle. He should have either endorsed Obama as someone who would take the White House back from the lobbyists or Clinton as someone who will fight Republicans every inch of the way. Instead he waited around so he could get a position from either one of them. posted 05/14/2008 at 16:28:34
Clinton's West Virginia Victory Does Little To Slow Obama
Just twice apparently so I don't annoy people like you. I thought maybe Clinton supporters who are threatening to vote for McCain needed to know most Obama supporters are nice. posted 05/14/2008 at 17:22:35
10 Good Things About Hillary Clinton* :
1. She is pro-choice.
2. She cares about children's rights.
3. She has worked for veterans' benefits.
4. She wants universal health-care.
5. She is a good mother.
6. She is a loyal friend.
7. She didn't crumble under right-wing attacks.
8. She is well-educated.
9. She has disproved many stereotypes about women.
10. She has the great state of New York's support.
* as listed by this Obama supporter posted 05/14/2008 at 17:12:17
1. She is pro-choice.
2. She cares about children's rights.
3. She has worked for veterans' benefits.
4. She wants universal health-care.
5. She is a good mother.
6. She is a loyal friend.
7. She didn't crumble under right-wing attacks.
8. She is well-educated.
9. She has disproved many stereotypes about women.
10. She has the great state of New York's support.
* as listed by this Obama supporter posted 05/14/2008 at 17:12:17
Obama picking Clinton as his VP negates what his campaign is all about. The only reason to do that would be if that were the only way Democrats could win the White House. But Obama is trying to do more than just win an election for one party. He wants to change the way business is done in Washington, and those who are attracted to his campaign on account of that will be turned off by an Obama-Clinton ticket. posted 05/14/2008 at 16:07:31
Rendell: Obama Should Pick Clinton As VP
I was a big fan of Hillary Clinton for a long time. But I've never liked Ed Rendell-- you couldn't tell he was a Republican or Democrat unless you looked at the caption under him on TV. He needs to go away and take his bad advice with him. Some whites in Pennsylvania won't vote for a black candidate? Well some whites across America wouldn't vote for Ed Rendell. Get lost. posted 05/14/2008 at 16:11:50
Even as Clinton Wins West Virginia, Obama's Magic Number Drops to 143 Delegates -- His Political Stock Rises on News from Mississippi
Senator Clinton's large margin of victory in West Virginia last night should have set off loud alarms throughout the Democratic party. The red alert for Democrats concerns whether they want the general election to be about issues-- or race. 22% of West Virginians cited race as a factor-- two-thirds of these voters will not vote for Barack Obama in the fall. Clinton ran up the score in West Virginia with her "hard-working Americans, white Americans" comments and made sure the message was heard loud and clear: many working class whites won't vote for Obama.
Well, Democrats *should* hear the message. And bring this contest to the dignified close which Senator Clinton herself is unwilling to do. Superdelegates will not overrule the voters on account of whites in central Pennsylvania or West Virginia who won't vote for a black candidate. If anything, they will accelerate the nominating process to make sure Obama has enough time to win over those blue collar white voters whose economic interests are best served by the Democratic agenda.
Obama needs to make in-roads among older whites, white women and Latinos. With the math in his favor, now he needs just one thing: time. As the primaries drag out, Obama has less time to talk face to face with these voters. When he has done this, he has won. Obama-- and other Democrats on local ballots-- need all the time that's left. posted 05/14/2008 at 15:51:31
Well, Democrats *should* hear the message. And bring this contest to the dignified close which Senator Clinton herself is unwilling to do. Superdelegates will not overrule the voters on account of whites in central Pennsylvania or West Virginia who won't vote for a black candidate. If anything, they will accelerate the nominating process to make sure Obama has enough time to win over those blue collar white voters whose economic interests are best served by the Democratic agenda.
Obama needs to make in-roads among older whites, white women and Latinos. With the math in his favor, now he needs just one thing: time. As the primaries drag out, Obama has less time to talk face to face with these voters. When he has done this, he has won. Obama-- and other Democrats on local ballots-- need all the time that's left. posted 05/14/2008 at 15:51:31
What Does the Future Hold for Hillary's Surrogates?
"[O]ne can't help but recognize the talent and tenaciousness that is the hallmark of Clinton's crusaders."
I might as well have praised "Baghdad Bob" for his talent and tenaciousness. Terry McAuliffe, James Carville, and other surrogates of Clinton have made fools of themselves. If they're supposed to be "political strategists" who would ever hire them? If it's rainy outside they'll say it's sunny. If it's thirty below they'll say just wear a T-shirt.
I would have voted for Senator Clinton in the fall. But for the life of me I can't understand why she would choose out-of-touch has-beens to run an historic campaign. I remember Terry McAuliffe as DNC chairman presiding over loss after loss in the U.S. House and Senate. Without Bill Clinton as the candidate these guys are perpetual losers.
As for Senator Clinton's superdelegates: it's not betrayal to switch your endorsement so we can bring the troops home, provide economic security for the middle class and help America remain a place where a woman has reproductive rights. Sticking with the losing candidate means you might be planning mischief in Denver. posted 05/15/2008 at 12:06:05
I might as well have praised "Baghdad Bob" for his talent and tenaciousness. Terry McAuliffe, James Carville, and other surrogates of Clinton have made fools of themselves. If they're supposed to be "political strategists" who would ever hire them? If it's rainy outside they'll say it's sunny. If it's thirty below they'll say just wear a T-shirt.
I would have voted for Senator Clinton in the fall. But for the life of me I can't understand why she would choose out-of-touch has-beens to run an historic campaign. I remember Terry McAuliffe as DNC chairman presiding over loss after loss in the U.S. House and Senate. Without Bill Clinton as the candidate these guys are perpetual losers.
As for Senator Clinton's superdelegates: it's not betrayal to switch your endorsement so we can bring the troops home, provide economic security for the middle class and help America remain a place where a woman has reproductive rights. Sticking with the losing candidate means you might be planning mischief in Denver. posted 05/15/2008 at 12:06:05
Hillary Agonistes: Why Doesn't She Concede?
10 Good Things About Hillary Clinton:
1. She is pro-choice.
2. She cares about children's rights.
3. She has worked for veterans' benefits.
4. She wants universal health-care.
5. She is a good mother.
6. She is a loyal friend.
7. She didn't crumble under right-wing attacks.
8. She is well-educated.
9. She has disproved many stereotypes about women.
10. She has the great state of New York's support. posted 05/14/2008 at 14:09:09
1. She is pro-choice.
2. She cares about children's rights.
3. She has worked for veterans' benefits.
4. She wants universal health-care.
5. She is a good mother.
6. She is a loyal friend.
7. She didn't crumble under right-wing attacks.
8. She is well-educated.
9. She has disproved many stereotypes about women.
10. She has the great state of New York's support. posted 05/14/2008 at 14:09:09
Senator Clinton says, "I believe I'm the stronger candidate against Senator McCain and I believe I would be the best president among the three of us running."
Well, she *is* a superdelegate, so at least she has convinced herself.
It's great she believes in herself, but Clinton ought to say, "I'm the stronger candidate, and millions of voters believe in me." posted 05/14/2008 at 13:48:54
Well, she *is* a superdelegate, so at least she has convinced herself.
It's great she believes in herself, but Clinton ought to say, "I'm the stronger candidate, and millions of voters believe in me." posted 05/14/2008 at 13:48:54
"She doesn't think that Obama has a chance in hell anyway"
That would make her not very intelligent. A charismatic oratorically gifted politician who raises millions, inspires new voters and redraws the delegate map-- Clinton should have respected her competition a long time ago then she might be in a better position right now. posted 05/14/2008 at 13:39:09
That would make her not very intelligent. A charismatic oratorically gifted politician who raises millions, inspires new voters and redraws the delegate map-- Clinton should have respected her competition a long time ago then she might be in a better position right now. posted 05/14/2008 at 13:39:09
Obama-Webb = Unstoppable
And Mark Warner will probably win John Warner's Virginia seat in the Senate, so no Democratic losses there. posted 05/14/2008 at 13:34:06
And Mark Warner will probably win John Warner's Virginia seat in the Senate, so no Democratic losses there. posted 05/14/2008 at 13:34:06
"Obama supporters tend to think all of these Hillary supporters are either racists or old feminists or uneducated uncouths"
That's not true if we look at the whole map and places like New York and California, but lately Clinton has been appealing to uneducated, bigoted and fearful voters who are trapped in the past. As for "old feminists"-- I see a lot of them supporting Obama. posted 05/14/2008 at 12:09:50
That's not true if we look at the whole map and places like New York and California, but lately Clinton has been appealing to uneducated, bigoted and fearful voters who are trapped in the past. As for "old feminists"-- I see a lot of them supporting Obama. posted 05/14/2008 at 12:09:50
"No issues. No substance. Just endless Clinton surrogates touting the Day's Campaign Talking Points."
How true. I was thinking last night how much more instructive it would be if the news media, instead of spending eight hours talking about polls and strategies, had spent that time exploring the significance of racism in America, and why it is we don't have better schools and more job opportunities for the people in West Virginia. posted 05/14/2008 at 12:07:23
How true. I was thinking last night how much more instructive it would be if the news media, instead of spending eight hours talking about polls and strategies, had spent that time exploring the significance of racism in America, and why it is we don't have better schools and more job opportunities for the people in West Virginia. posted 05/14/2008 at 12:07:23
Another excellent post! You're right-- she's trying to make it close among pledged delegates (within 100) then convince the superdelegates to put her over the top.
Democrats, both "regular" voters and the party leadership, should fear a cooked-up scandal or personal smear about Obama emerging over the next few weeks. posted 05/14/2008 at 12:00:16
Democrats, both "regular" voters and the party leadership, should fear a cooked-up scandal or personal smear about Obama emerging over the next few weeks. posted 05/14/2008 at 12:00:16
I know I would despise Obama if he were doing what Clinton is doing now. Hanging around the race just hoping for something bad to happen to her, wearing out his welcome with false predictions of victory and driving up her negatives while making Democrats sick of the race. posted 05/14/2008 at 11:57:15
If Senator Clinton could stay away from race-based campaign tactics, I can empathize with her predicament. She is facing not only a loss in the primary, but a permanent change in her reputation. The legacy of the Clintons as winners and as the face of the Democratic party are at stake. I don't know how long she has wanted to be president, but all those dreams and hard work have slipped away in a matter of months.
I wish she could have run a campaign where she made sure she still won about 50% or at least a third of the black vote. And one where she reached out to young women in high school and college with a grassroots/Internet campaign instead of allowing Obama to win over the hearts of most young Americans. Instead of putting a clueless jerk like Mark Penn in charge, and surrounding herself with used car salesman Terry McAuliffe and Howard "Baghdad Bob" Wolfson, she should have hired Donna Brazile or another talented woman to run the historic campaign of a woman.
All those lost opportunities-- Democrats would have been better off if Clinton had taken the high road and emphasized her competence and intelligence. She probably won New York state that way-- I don't know why she ran a Southern Strategy-style campaign in a Democratic primary. posted 05/14/2008 at 11:52:56
I wish she could have run a campaign where she made sure she still won about 50% or at least a third of the black vote. And one where she reached out to young women in high school and college with a grassroots/Internet campaign instead of allowing Obama to win over the hearts of most young Americans. Instead of putting a clueless jerk like Mark Penn in charge, and surrounding herself with used car salesman Terry McAuliffe and Howard "Baghdad Bob" Wolfson, she should have hired Donna Brazile or another talented woman to run the historic campaign of a woman.
All those lost opportunities-- Democrats would have been better off if Clinton had taken the high road and emphasized her competence and intelligence. She probably won New York state that way-- I don't know why she ran a Southern Strategy-style campaign in a Democratic primary. posted 05/14/2008 at 11:52:56
Only as a fictional character who, when routed from heaven as a fallen angel, never gave up-- foreshadowing the characters played by James Cagney in gangster films such as "White Heat." I meant no disrespect. posted 05/14/2008 at 11:36:48
As a Yankee fan I find that hilarious-- and true. posted 05/14/2008 at 11:31:15
According to Paul Begala, a Rasmussen poll showed Obama and McCain are tied in West Virginia. That pretty much makes Clinton's victory irrelevant. posted 05/14/2008 at 11:28:25
Speaking of Milton:
"Better to reign in hell than serve in heaven" posted 05/14/2008 at 11:23:24
"Better to reign in hell than serve in heaven" posted 05/14/2008 at 11:23:24
In the 1990s Bill Clinton overcame the Republican slime machine-- and appealed to people's hopes and common sense. I assumed Hillary Clinton-- without Bill's good ol' boy persona-- could do the same thing against her opponents, rather than running that slime machine. posted 05/14/2008 at 11:20:23
The Hillary Clinton I used to think would make a terrific president didn't speak with a fake drawl or use race-based political tactics, and she was far too smart and competent to appeal to uneducated, hateful people. Whatever happened to her? posted 05/14/2008 at 11:14:53
I'm speaking of Senator Clinton's base of support in West Virginia, not her support in more diverse, advanced states such as New York and California.
Stated another way: the Democratic nominee needs to win the votes of blacks and young people (of all races) more than the votes of the typical West Virginian. posted 05/14/2008 at 11:09:56
Stated another way: the Democratic nominee needs to win the votes of blacks and young people (of all races) more than the votes of the typical West Virginian. posted 05/14/2008 at 11:09:56
1. McCain won 1% of the vote in West Virginia on Feb. 5 and still won the nomination.
2. The Democrat who won the special election in ultra-conservative Mississippi after being linked to Senator Obama was the bigger story last night-- it's the Dems' year and Barack's year if Clinton doesn't spoil it.
3. Superdelegates won't be influenced by the ignorant past over the educated, diverse future. posted 05/14/2008 at 10:53:18
2. The Democrat who won the special election in ultra-conservative Mississippi after being linked to Senator Obama was the bigger story last night-- it's the Dems' year and Barack's year if Clinton doesn't spoil it.
3. Superdelegates won't be influenced by the ignorant past over the educated, diverse future. posted 05/14/2008 at 10:53:18
Obama Focuses On November, Clinton On West Virginia
Yes! I'm thinking I will be very proud of Oregon next Tuesday, and am set for a great victory speech by Obama in Portland. I think he can win the Latino vote in Oregon too. posted 05/13/2008 at 18:51:50
I thought it was just an SNL skit, but Hillary Clinton really did get the racist vote. Two-thirds of voters in West Virginia who said race is a factor won't vote for Obama in November.
http://www.abcnews.go.com/PollingUnit/Politics/story?id=4844868&page=1 posted 05/13/2008 at 18:38:12
http://www.abcnews.go.com/PollingUnit/Politics/story?id=4844868&page=1 posted 05/13/2008 at 18:38:12
The telling thing is, Obama won his own state by 32% whereas Clinton won hers by 17%. posted 05/13/2008 at 18:00:51
As West Virginia goes, so the nomination goes. Just look at the Republican results from West Virginia in February:
Huckabee 52%
Romney 47%
McCain 1%
Just like McCain was, Obama is dooooomed. posted 05/13/2008 at 17:58:59
Huckabee 52%
Romney 47%
McCain 1%
Just like McCain was, Obama is dooooomed. posted 05/13/2008 at 17:58:59
On the one hand . . . on the other hand . . .
On the one hand . . .
A West Virginia landslide defeat would look worse for Obama if he were the only active candidate
On the other hand . . .
Hillary Clinton running up the score in West Virginia by using racial code (not very subtle at that) about "hard-working Americans, white Americans" can't be all that helpful either posted 05/13/2008 at 17:22:43
On the one hand . . .
A West Virginia landslide defeat would look worse for Obama if he were the only active candidate
On the other hand . . .
Hillary Clinton running up the score in West Virginia by using racial code (not very subtle at that) about "hard-working Americans, white Americans" can't be all that helpful either posted 05/13/2008 at 17:22:43
Let's get rid of the primaries all together and just base the nomination on who is ahead in the polls on any given day. posted 05/13/2008 at 17:05:23
Kind of rubbing it in HuffPo?
The problem is, I see Obama ads all over HuffPo and it makes it look like you're in his pocket (where he keeps his cash). MSNBC may have the same problem if one were to discover that parent company GE would benefit (or has benefited from) Obama's energy policy.
I bring this up as an Obama supporter because CNN is so clearly pro-Clinton/anti-Obama. I wonder how they will treat Clinton's momentous, game-changing victory in delegate rich West Virginia tonight. What insightful things will Ari Fleischer and Bill Bennett have to say about Obama's elitism and socialist agenda? How will Lanny Davis objectively treat Clinton's new path to victory?
However, maybe Clinton's campaign deserves some of this from HuffPo considering how, lately, Howard Wolfson is acting like Baghdad Bob. posted 05/13/2008 at 16:52:52
The problem is, I see Obama ads all over HuffPo and it makes it look like you're in his pocket (where he keeps his cash). MSNBC may have the same problem if one were to discover that parent company GE would benefit (or has benefited from) Obama's energy policy.
I bring this up as an Obama supporter because CNN is so clearly pro-Clinton/anti-Obama. I wonder how they will treat Clinton's momentous, game-changing victory in delegate rich West Virginia tonight. What insightful things will Ari Fleischer and Bill Bennett have to say about Obama's elitism and socialist agenda? How will Lanny Davis objectively treat Clinton's new path to victory?
However, maybe Clinton's campaign deserves some of this from HuffPo considering how, lately, Howard Wolfson is acting like Baghdad Bob. posted 05/13/2008 at 16:52:52
Obama/McCain: Kennedy/Nixon or Eisenhower/Stevenson?
"Obama should tell the nation that the problem isn't that seventy-year-old John McCain has been around too long -- he's just been in Washington too long."
The problem is, McCain is perceived as a maverick rather than a Washington insider. And his record has backed that up from time to time.
I believe Obama should present himself as the candidate McCain could have been. The "Whatever Happened To The Real McCain?" candidate. In 2000 McCain offered straight talk and common sense solutions-- and that's what Americans want. Campaign finance reform and clean campaigning. Obama is what people had hoped McCain, Giuliani, Powell and Perot to be-- a post-partisan solutions-oriented leader.
The sad thing for McCain is he is running as the generic Republican candidate instead of the type of candidate who became so popular among independents in 2000. Otherwise, he would pose a (more) serious threat to Obama. As it is, Obama can ask why McCain now supports the tax cuts for the wealthy he once opposed and has changed his stances on torture and immigration.
McCain has become the flip-flopper, out of touch with America. And Obama is the straight talker with practical, centrist solutions. posted 05/13/2008 at 14:27:15
The problem is, McCain is perceived as a maverick rather than a Washington insider. And his record has backed that up from time to time.
I believe Obama should present himself as the candidate McCain could have been. The "Whatever Happened To The Real McCain?" candidate. In 2000 McCain offered straight talk and common sense solutions-- and that's what Americans want. Campaign finance reform and clean campaigning. Obama is what people had hoped McCain, Giuliani, Powell and Perot to be-- a post-partisan solutions-oriented leader.
The sad thing for McCain is he is running as the generic Republican candidate instead of the type of candidate who became so popular among independents in 2000. Otherwise, he would pose a (more) serious threat to Obama. As it is, Obama can ask why McCain now supports the tax cuts for the wealthy he once opposed and has changed his stances on torture and immigration.
McCain has become the flip-flopper, out of touch with America. And Obama is the straight talker with practical, centrist solutions. posted 05/13/2008 at 14:27:15
Before Bitter-Gate: What Obama Said Hours Earlier About Guns
Actually Obama won North Carolina in spite of voter suppression efforts. But some things are more important than winning and losing-- and that is making sure we don't continue the ugly history of voter suppression against African Americans. It happened in 2000 in Florida with felons purge lists. But that was Republicans using those tactics. posted 05/13/2008 at 17:03:34
His statement was simply a refutation of the "Southern Strategy," that's all. posted 05/13/2008 at 16:40:13
Voter suppression-- the ultimate weapon of a race-based campaign strategy. posted 05/13/2008 at 16:38:19
Barack Obama's biggest challenge in the 2008 election isn't defeating McCain or dealing with the 527s-- it's overcoming the superficial, divisive, negative media outlets which legitimize phony stories like "bittergate" and interview people like Trent Lott on a regular basis-- as if Trent Lott has anything relevant to say. posted 05/13/2008 at 16:36:48
What makes sense for New York City might not make sense for Billings, which is bottom-up thinking instead of top-down command-and-control thinking. Conservatives should even go for that. posted 05/13/2008 at 16:13:33
It's not like all this "bitter" stuff is some new insight on Obama. In his book Obama writes about how the gun control debate involves two sides shouting at each other and digging in for a long political battle instead of coming up with a common sense approach. He writes about how candidates have to fill out questionnaires from various groups and if they don't answer every question a certain way they don't get an important endorsement and the money that goes with it. After shootings in Chicago earlier this year Obama was criticized by gun control activists for not using it as an opportunity to call for more gun laws. Paul Krugman of the New York Times constantly criticizes Obama for not lining up entirely on what Krugman considers to be the left side of debates on health-care and Social Security. But it's a question of whether we want a nuanced debate with compromise or just the same old trench warfare. posted 05/13/2008 at 16:01:47
James Carville Says Obama Likely To Be Nominee
A year ago, I didn't mind the prospect of voting for Hillary Clinton (despite her Iraq war vote), but I really didn't want her to bring along the types I'm so tired of-- James Carville, Paul Begala, Ed Rendell, and especially the guy who would try to sell you John Voight's used LeBaron (the dentist's, not the actor's), Terry McCauliffe. posted 05/13/2008 at 13:01:07
West Virginia Primary: Clinton Expected To Win
I probably should have said Clinton wins by 20 or 30 instead of 50 or 60 if I wanted to play the expectations game the right way-- but a 20 point loss is a blowout no matter how you slice it. Frankly, I'm just happy 25% of West Virginians like Obama. posted 05/13/2008 at 14:04:57
Hopefully Clinton supporters in West Virginia will think "What's the point? It's over anyway" or "She'll win in a landslide anyway, so I'm staying home" while Obama supporters think "Let's make it as close as possible" with the result that Clinton wins by 15 or so instead of 20 or 30. posted 05/13/2008 at 13:48:09
Honestly, that worries me-- but Obama is still the nominee. If we thought it was all going to come down to West Virginia, we should have picked nearby Virginia's popular ex-governor Mark Warner. The fact is, neither candidate (a woman who has been seen as a city slicker, a Hollywood-elite politician and has been the subject of many a sexist joke among the blue collar workers she now brags about winning, and a black man with a funny name) is ideal for West Virginia. Obama beat Clinton fair and square, and her supporters should at least respect him for that. posted 05/13/2008 at 13:21:09
Under LBJ, Americans were mobilized to help the poor in areas like Appalachia. Then came the "silent majority" backlash and Reagan's anti-government message, with voters basing their votes on guns, religion, and candidates who drink beer with them rather than on their economic interests.
So, year after year, Democrats go to places like West Virginia and promise better jobs and schools. But then they go back to Washington and fight the old partisan battles.
We will never help the poor or make college a reality for them if we don't get Americans to care about them again. Usually Republicans can hit back with charges of socialism and tax and spend big government. But Barack Obama can inspire a new generation to care about people and realize we should get the most out of government and get what we pay for.
Blue collar workers who are struggling are proof that the old politics doesn't work. posted 05/13/2008 at 13:13:31
So, year after year, Democrats go to places like West Virginia and promise better jobs and schools. But then they go back to Washington and fight the old partisan battles.
We will never help the poor or make college a reality for them if we don't get Americans to care about them again. Usually Republicans can hit back with charges of socialism and tax and spend big government. But Barack Obama can inspire a new generation to care about people and realize we should get the most out of government and get what we pay for.
Blue collar workers who are struggling are proof that the old politics doesn't work. posted 05/13/2008 at 13:13:31
If most Democratic voters in West Virginia are poor and lack college degrees, that only means we need a President who can get past the partisan gridlock in Washington and bring economic relief to those who are struggling, while also making college more affordable. The promise of the Democratic party, once fulfilled, is what leads people to vote for candidates like Barack Obama. I hope West Virginia can succeed under his administration. posted 05/13/2008 at 12:51:33
Obama Muslim Smear Resurfaces: NYT Op-Ed Tags Obama As Muslim 'Apostate'
Go to this page and scroll down to Senior Associates:
http://www.csis.org/Experts/NonResid_Experts/ posted 05/12/2008 at 19:09:56
http://www.csis.org/Experts/NonResid_Experts/ posted 05/12/2008 at 19:09:56
If bad link, click on "Experts" on CSIS site and go to "L" for Luttwak. posted 05/12/2008 at 19:05:49
Mr. Luttwak's e-mail address:
http://www.csis.org/component/option,com_csis_experts/task,contact/id,109/ posted 05/12/2008 at 19:02:47
http://www.csis.org/component/option,com_csis_experts/task,contact/id,109/ posted 05/12/2008 at 19:02:47
GOP's New Slogan Already Being Used To Market Anti-Depressant
Other possible slogans:
"Wide Stances, Narrow Minds"
"For A Stronger, More Smarter Countrey"
"Go F*ck Yourself"
"We Report, You Decide" posted 05/12/2008 at 17:28:30
"Wide Stances, Narrow Minds"
"For A Stronger, More Smarter Countrey"
"Go F*ck Yourself"
"We Report, You Decide" posted 05/12/2008 at 17:28:30
The GOP's new logo is already being used as well:
http://www.cmu.edu/corporate/images/exxonmobil_red.gif posted 05/12/2008 at 16:47:51
http://www.cmu.edu/corporate/images/exxonmobil_red.gif posted 05/12/2008 at 16:47:51
One of the funniest things I've ever seen!
Talk about "Change You Can Xerox"-- and, by the way, mangling Obama's slogans doesn't work ("Yes she can" and "Yes we will").
Change you deserve? We deserve worrying about our troops being killed in Iraq? Our environment being polluted? The middle class doesn't deserve any economic relief? Thanks for nothing, GOP! posted 05/12/2008 at 16:42:23
Talk about "Change You Can Xerox"-- and, by the way, mangling Obama's slogans doesn't work ("Yes she can" and "Yes we will").
Change you deserve? We deserve worrying about our troops being killed in Iraq? Our environment being polluted? The middle class doesn't deserve any economic relief? Thanks for nothing, GOP! posted 05/12/2008 at 16:42:23
Schumer Changes His Mind, Says Unity Ticket Could Happen
An Obama-Schumer ticket is more likely-- and more likeable. posted 05/12/2008 at 15:39:50
Obama To Visit Michigan, Florida For First Time
No. Dean dropped out when it looked like he couldn't win, rather than staying in to damage the frontrunner-- a novel approach. posted 05/12/2008 at 16:24:50
Howard Dean won Vermont in a landslide in 2004, months after he had dropped out. posted 05/12/2008 at 16:10:45
"Why can't Senator Obama beat Senator Clinton in West Virginia? Voters there have heard that he's the presumptive nominee," Clinton campaign strategist Howard Wolfson said on "Fox News Sunday."
Howard Wolfson needs to go away and start writing his book. When Obama won Wyoming following Ohio nobody talked about a surge in white voters who support him. Democrats in West Virginia are practically Republicans. I though Clinton only cared about big states that Democrats usually win? Nobody cares about the results in West Virginia except CNN. posted 05/12/2008 at 13:38:48
Howard Wolfson needs to go away and start writing his book. When Obama won Wyoming following Ohio nobody talked about a surge in white voters who support him. Democrats in West Virginia are practically Republicans. I though Clinton only cared about big states that Democrats usually win? Nobody cares about the results in West Virginia except CNN. posted 05/12/2008 at 13:38:48
I think Eleanor Roosevelt originally said that-- she should have been our first woman president. posted 05/12/2008 at 13:35:22
Obama In Kentucky And West Virginia: Why Will He Lose?
Clinton is very popular among Democrats, and ever since Wisconsin the media have played up her chances of winning (though she needed 60% of the remaining delegates even at that time). Normally, blue collar whites wouldn't be the usual group that would like Hillary Clinton. Her image has been associated with California and New York big city liberals. She has changed this image for the time being in order to emphasize that Obama cannot win over white voters who aren't savvy about race.
With just one "D" on the ballot, Obama will do fine. And Democrats aren't about to say, "He's black so we won't nominate him." Perceived lack of experience is a key obstacle for Obama to overcome, but "soft on terror" and "anti-American" are pre-November 2006 attack strategies that probably won't work, particularly with Jim Webb as his running mate. posted 05/12/2008 at 18:51:20
With just one "D" on the ballot, Obama will do fine. And Democrats aren't about to say, "He's black so we won't nominate him." Perceived lack of experience is a key obstacle for Obama to overcome, but "soft on terror" and "anti-American" are pre-November 2006 attack strategies that probably won't work, particularly with Jim Webb as his running mate. posted 05/12/2008 at 18:51:20
Two superdelegates I wrote to on Friday endorsed Obama today! Pure coincidence perhaps, but maybe I made some difference as Keith Roark, chairman of the Idaho Democratic Party, and Sen. Akaka of Hawaii both entered the Obama column today.
My dream of Sen. Byrd endorsing Obama looks like it won't come true-- he would have made history. posted 05/12/2008 at 17:48:35
My dream of Sen. Byrd endorsing Obama looks like it won't come true-- he would have made history. posted 05/12/2008 at 17:48:35
Karl Rove and the Media-Politico Revolving Door: It Goes Further Back than Stephanopoulos
I wish someone like Robert Schlesinger could look into why CNN has such a pro-Clinton/anti-Obama bias. William Schneider, of CNN and the American Enterprise Institute, grumpily claimed on Saturday that the only way for Obama to heal the party was to choose Clinton for his running mate. A caption read "Obama's Uphill Climb"-- in regard to West Virginia's primary tomorrow with very few delegates at stake. While every other news outlet had Obama ahead in superdelegates, CNN still showed him trailing. Prior to the contests of last Tuesday, Anderson Cooper asked, "Will the gas tax holiday issue help Senator Clinton, or hurt Obama?" Heads I win, tails you lose.
Do the Clintons have a special personal or financial relationship with TimeWarner? Does TimeWarner fear something in Obama's candidacy? Or is this bias limited to executives, producers and reporters at CNN?
In fairness, MSNBC recently has shown a pro-Obama/anti-Clinton bias. However, their treatment of the Rev. Wright controversy was no less superficial and almost as destructive as CNN's. Joe Scarborough, Pat Buchanan, even Tim Russert and Tom Brokaw regularly speak in negative terms about Obama.
The bottom line: Obama needs the media on his side. The inability of Gore and Kerry to make it into the White House was due in large part to the media's bias against them. posted 05/12/2008 at 11:37:05
Do the Clintons have a special personal or financial relationship with TimeWarner? Does TimeWarner fear something in Obama's candidacy? Or is this bias limited to executives, producers and reporters at CNN?
In fairness, MSNBC recently has shown a pro-Obama/anti-Clinton bias. However, their treatment of the Rev. Wright controversy was no less superficial and almost as destructive as CNN's. Joe Scarborough, Pat Buchanan, even Tim Russert and Tom Brokaw regularly speak in negative terms about Obama.
The bottom line: Obama needs the media on his side. The inability of Gore and Kerry to make it into the White House was due in large part to the media's bias against them. posted 05/12/2008 at 11:37:05
Clinton Campaign In $20 Million Of Debt, Campaign Chair Says Clinton Could Lend More Money
The campaign could have saved some money by not running an ad in Oregon with Joe Wilson and Valerie Plame. Joe Wilson went to Niger in order to challenge the phony intelligence used to promote the Iraq war-- intelligence which Senator Clinton didn't bother to read before voting to authorize military action. Now Joe Wilson is showing more loyalty to the Clintons than to the sort of principles which he and his wife stood for when the Bush administration betrayed them and their country. posted 05/12/2008 at 13:05:27
Actually it could be partially Clinton's fault if Obama loses because she has given McCain all the story-lines he needs: Obama can't win white votes, he's an elitist, he should ditch his church, he shouldn't talk to foreign leaders, he's soft on Hamas and not pro-Jewish enough.
McCain should pay off her debt. He owes her. posted 05/12/2008 at 12:27:39
McCain should pay off her debt. He owes her. posted 05/12/2008 at 12:27:39
I'm not sure, but it's very authentic.
http://www.statesmanjournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080510/ELECTION03/805100338/1103 posted 05/12/2008 at 12:08:45
http://www.statesmanjournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080510/ELECTION03/805100338/1103 posted 05/12/2008 at 12:08:45
Obama's campaign is frugal-- and has good taste. There's just about only one reason to stop in Woodburn, Oregon, and that's to go to Luis's Taqueria where he stopped for lunch on Friday. The best Mexican food ever, and only $3 for a taco. Si se puede! posted 05/12/2008 at 11:59:46
Hillary's Chances: Growing Chorus Says It's Not Going To Happen
What we put presidential candidates through would drive anyone insane. It's why we get so few good candidates. posted 05/09/2008 at 18:59:37
Woodburn, where Obama was today, is definitely not Washington, D.C. It's about as small town as you get. posted 05/09/2008 at 18:56:44
Good point-- but I hardly know what to say to my Clinton-supporting friend who dismissed Obama as a "motivational speaker" and vowed to write in Clinton's name in the fall. It's very confusing to be at such odds with fellow Democrats. I used to think I didn't understand Republicans who supported Bush just because I wasn't a Republican. I thought I understood Democrats. But I don't see how about 50% of Democrats excuse Clinton's behavior of late, or why they dislike Obama so much. posted 05/09/2008 at 18:45:21
The problem is-- one of the most powerful figures in America, a former First Lady and current Senator, shouldn't put it in such black and white terms (literally). It's bad enough when CNN and the other news outlets slice and dice the country up and make it look like we only vote according to our skin color. But when an actual presidential candidate says "hard-working Americans, white Americans" it is at best a careless use of words by someone with a diverse population in New York state and who has been through two presidential campaigns already-- in other words, ought to know to use other words.
At worst, it's code for "White people vote for me because I'm white." Also, "hard-working" suggests the lazy, shiftless stereotype. Or-- "Whites won't vote for him because he's black."
You didn't take it the wrong way, but a lot of working class whites might-- and they might be expected to take it the wrong way, considering the Clinton campaign has already used race-based strategies. posted 05/09/2008 at 18:36:46
At worst, it's code for "White people vote for me because I'm white." Also, "hard-working" suggests the lazy, shiftless stereotype. Or-- "Whites won't vote for him because he's black."
You didn't take it the wrong way, but a lot of working class whites might-- and they might be expected to take it the wrong way, considering the Clinton campaign has already used race-based strategies. posted 05/09/2008 at 18:36:46
It all depends on your sports metaphor.
In boxing, the referees sometimes stop the fight even if it's scheduled for 12 rounds.
In baseball, if the home team is ahead after 8 1/2, they don't play the last 1/2 inning.
This election is like a Super Bowl where the team from Chicago is ahead by two touchdowns with a minute to go but the team from New York is still trying to break the quarterback's legs. posted 05/09/2008 at 18:09:35
In boxing, the referees sometimes stop the fight even if it's scheduled for 12 rounds.
In baseball, if the home team is ahead after 8 1/2, they don't play the last 1/2 inning.
This election is like a Super Bowl where the team from Chicago is ahead by two touchdowns with a minute to go but the team from New York is still trying to break the quarterback's legs. posted 05/09/2008 at 18:09:35
I've been an Obama supporter from the beginning, but still thought Clinton was running a competent, professional campaign last year. What Obama needs most as far as disappointed and at times angry Clinton supporters maybe giving him their vote in November is: time. posted 05/09/2008 at 18:00:27
Hillary Clinton is running a pretty good TV ad here in Oregon. It makes me think of what might have been. I know I was impressed with her until late last year. The fundamental problem with her campaign is they never showed Obama any respect. They thought Bill could say "roll of the dice" and Obama would fade away.
Democrats who like her don't have to like Obama. No need to join a "movement." Just hold your nose in November and vote to end the war in Iraq (lives are at stake) and provide the middle class with economic relief. I wanted Dean instead of Kerry in '04 and I still voted for Kerry. posted 05/09/2008 at 17:49:12
Democrats who like her don't have to like Obama. No need to join a "movement." Just hold your nose in November and vote to end the war in Iraq (lives are at stake) and provide the middle class with economic relief. I wanted Dean instead of Kerry in '04 and I still voted for Kerry. posted 05/09/2008 at 17:49:12
A Few Words On This Democrats Coming Together Business
Florida and Michigan should count for the sake of democracy, not for the sake of keeping a candidate's campaign alive. So let's be honest about why those states are part of the discussion.
Clinton should drop out now. She has said Obama isn't winning "hard-working Americans, white Americans." When she wins West Virginia with a lot of "hard-working" (as opposed to those lazy bums in Idaho?) white voters, and celebrates her unhelpful victory that night, it's going to look like her campaign is based on race appeal and it also will create more problems for the nominee in the general election.
Democratic nominees always struggle-- post-Reagan-- to win blue collar white voters. For all practical purposes, Obama is already running a general election campaign. So the real measure of his success right now is the way he polls against McCain, not only on the national level, but in individual states and among various groups.
The time is now for Obama to start improving his numbers among these "hard-working whites" which the Clinton campaign keeps reminding us about with such racial insensitivity.
It's not a football game. It's a presidential election-- and primaries have been known to be over as early as February when there has been a presumptive nominee.
The Clintons are only damaging their legacy. posted 05/09/2008 at 11:01:27
Clinton should drop out now. She has said Obama isn't winning "hard-working Americans, white Americans." When she wins West Virginia with a lot of "hard-working" (as opposed to those lazy bums in Idaho?) white voters, and celebrates her unhelpful victory that night, it's going to look like her campaign is based on race appeal and it also will create more problems for the nominee in the general election.
Democratic nominees always struggle-- post-Reagan-- to win blue collar white voters. For all practical purposes, Obama is already running a general election campaign. So the real measure of his success right now is the way he polls against McCain, not only on the national level, but in individual states and among various groups.
The time is now for Obama to start improving his numbers among these "hard-working whites" which the Clinton campaign keeps reminding us about with such racial insensitivity.
It's not a football game. It's a presidential election-- and primaries have been known to be over as early as February when there has been a presumptive nominee.
The Clintons are only damaging their legacy. posted 05/09/2008 at 11:01:27
Clinton Supporters Send Last-Ditch Obama Attack Emails To Supers
E-mail to Sen. Robert Byrd, uncommitted superdelegate:
Dear Senator Byrd, I am asking you to make history and become a hero on the national scene, which you already have done by opposing the war in Iraq so eloquently in your speeches and votes. Yesterday Senator Clinton said that Barack Obama is not winning "hard-working Americans, white Americans." These racially insensitive words are offensive to all Democrats of good conscience, whether they be black or white. We need to speak up on behalf of the African American community and state that race-based campaign strategies have no place in our party. African Americans should not be set aside as a dispensable group. In their quest for justice and equality they represent the spirit of the Democratic party. Therefore, I ask you, Senator Byrd, to endorse Barack Obama for President of the United States, prior to the primary in West Virginia. Your statement would resound through the ages as the definitive turning of the page, the moment when America took its next great step forward. Thank you for considering my request, and thank you for your bold leadership. posted 05/09/2008 at 16:55:38
Dear Senator Byrd, I am asking you to make history and become a hero on the national scene, which you already have done by opposing the war in Iraq so eloquently in your speeches and votes. Yesterday Senator Clinton said that Barack Obama is not winning "hard-working Americans, white Americans." These racially insensitive words are offensive to all Democrats of good conscience, whether they be black or white. We need to speak up on behalf of the African American community and state that race-based campaign strategies have no place in our party. African Americans should not be set aside as a dispensable group. In their quest for justice and equality they represent the spirit of the Democratic party. Therefore, I ask you, Senator Byrd, to endorse Barack Obama for President of the United States, prior to the primary in West Virginia. Your statement would resound through the ages as the definitive turning of the page, the moment when America took its next great step forward. Thank you for considering my request, and thank you for your bold leadership. posted 05/09/2008 at 16:55:38
Obama Beats Hillary In Superdelegates For First Time, ABC Reports
The superdelegates who should step in are Biden, Reid, Gore and Pelosi. End this now. Because Senator Clinton's comment about "hard-working Americans, white Americans" is so racially offensive, the Democratic party needs to send a strong message we don't stand for that kind of language.
Are we really going to treat the African American community like a separate, dispensable group we can just set to one side? It's as if we're saying with Clinton: "Oh, you're black-- of course you support Obama." Those comments by Clinton were the final signal she can't run a clean campaign that isn't divisive.
People who have extra power need to take extra risk from time to time-- actually stand up for something. Otherwise we only give them power so they can sit around and feel extra special. Sure they might tick her off-- then don't be a superdelegate. posted 05/09/2008 at 15:40:54
Are we really going to treat the African American community like a separate, dispensable group we can just set to one side? It's as if we're saying with Clinton: "Oh, you're black-- of course you support Obama." Those comments by Clinton were the final signal she can't run a clean campaign that isn't divisive.
People who have extra power need to take extra risk from time to time-- actually stand up for something. Otherwise we only give them power so they can sit around and feel extra special. Sure they might tick her off-- then don't be a superdelegate. posted 05/09/2008 at 15:40:54
Clinton's Open Letter To Obama On MI and FL
E-mail to uncommitted superdelegate Senator Salazar:
Dear Senator Salazar, In 2008 Democrats have a wonderful opportunity to win the White House, additional seats in Congress and many other local seats across the country. Yet this opportunity is in danger of slipping away forever on account of the latest turn the presidential election has taken. Today Senator Clinton said that Obama isn't winning the votes of hard-working white Americans. This sort of racially insensitive language is terribly damaging to the Democratic party. After all, Obama did quite well in your state of Colorado. More importantly, Democrats should not stand for words or political strategies which are so offensive to the African American community. This constituency is at the heart of who we are as Democrats-- white, black, Latino, Asian, we share that community's concerns. To dismiss African Americans as a group that doesn't really count and should be set to one side is not only morally reprehensible but politically dangerous. We need a unified, energized Democratic party in the fall. Please endorse Barack Obama today, for the simple reason that these sorts of attacks need to end before it is too late. Your respected voice and reputation can make a great difference. Thank you. posted 05/08/2008 at 19:09:43
Dear Senator Salazar, In 2008 Democrats have a wonderful opportunity to win the White House, additional seats in Congress and many other local seats across the country. Yet this opportunity is in danger of slipping away forever on account of the latest turn the presidential election has taken. Today Senator Clinton said that Obama isn't winning the votes of hard-working white Americans. This sort of racially insensitive language is terribly damaging to the Democratic party. After all, Obama did quite well in your state of Colorado. More importantly, Democrats should not stand for words or political strategies which are so offensive to the African American community. This constituency is at the heart of who we are as Democrats-- white, black, Latino, Asian, we share that community's concerns. To dismiss African Americans as a group that doesn't really count and should be set to one side is not only morally reprehensible but politically dangerous. We need a unified, energized Democratic party in the fall. Please endorse Barack Obama today, for the simple reason that these sorts of attacks need to end before it is too late. Your respected voice and reputation can make a great difference. Thank you. posted 05/08/2008 at 19:09:43
Terry McAuliffe in 2004:
"I'm going outside the primary window," [Michigan Sen. Carl Levin] told me definitively.
"If I allow you to do that, the whole system collapses," I said. "We will have chaos. I let you make your case to the DNC, and we voted unanimously and you lost."
He kept insisting that they were going to move up Michigan on their own, even though if they did that, they would lose half their delegates. By that point Carl and I were leaning toward each other over a table in the middle of the room, shouting and dropping the occasional expletive.
"You won't deny us seats at the convention," he said.
"Carl, take it to the bank," I said. "They will not get a credential. The closest they'll get to Boston will be watching it on television. I will not let you break this entire nominating process for one state. The rules are the rules. If you want to call my bluff, Carl, you go ahead and do it."
We glared at each other some more, but there was nothing much left to say. I was holding all the cards and Levin knew it.
[Source: McAuliffe, Terry. What A Party!, p. 325.] posted 05/08/2008 at 19:04:29
"I'm going outside the primary window," [Michigan Sen. Carl Levin] told me definitively.
"If I allow you to do that, the whole system collapses," I said. "We will have chaos. I let you make your case to the DNC, and we voted unanimously and you lost."
He kept insisting that they were going to move up Michigan on their own, even though if they did that, they would lose half their delegates. By that point Carl and I were leaning toward each other over a table in the middle of the room, shouting and dropping the occasional expletive.
"You won't deny us seats at the convention," he said.
"Carl, take it to the bank," I said. "They will not get a credential. The closest they'll get to Boston will be watching it on television. I will not let you break this entire nominating process for one state. The rules are the rules. If you want to call my bluff, Carl, you go ahead and do it."
We glared at each other some more, but there was nothing much left to say. I was holding all the cards and Levin knew it.
[Source: McAuliffe, Terry. What A Party!, p. 325.] posted 05/08/2008 at 19:04:29
Here's what Terry McAuliffe wrote in his book concerning the 2004 election when Michigan wanted to move up on the primary schedule [What a Party!, p. 325]:
"I'm going outside the primary window," [Michigan Sen. Carl Levin] told me definitively.
"If I allow you to do that, the whole system collapses," I said. "We will have chaos. I let you make your case to the DNC, and we voted unanimously and you lost."
He kept insisting that they were going to move up Michigan on their own, even though if they did that, they would lose half their delegates. By that point Carl and I were leaning toward each other over a table in the middle of the room, shouting and dropping the occasional expletive.
"You won't deny us seats at the convention," he said.
"Carl, take it to the bank," I said. "They will not get a credential. The closest they'll get to Boston will be watching it on television. I will not let you break this entire nominating process for one state. The rules are the rules. If you want to call my bluff, Carl, you go ahead and do it."
We glared at each other some more, but there was nothing much left to say. I was holding all the cards and Levin knew it. posted 05/08/2008 at 18:27:31
"I'm going outside the primary window," [Michigan Sen. Carl Levin] told me definitively.
"If I allow you to do that, the whole system collapses," I said. "We will have chaos. I let you make your case to the DNC, and we voted unanimously and you lost."
He kept insisting that they were going to move up Michigan on their own, even though if they did that, they would lose half their delegates. By that point Carl and I were leaning toward each other over a table in the middle of the room, shouting and dropping the occasional expletive.
"You won't deny us seats at the convention," he said.
"Carl, take it to the bank," I said. "They will not get a credential. The closest they'll get to Boston will be watching it on television. I will not let you break this entire nominating process for one state. The rules are the rules. If you want to call my bluff, Carl, you go ahead and do it."
We glared at each other some more, but there was nothing much left to say. I was holding all the cards and Levin knew it. posted 05/08/2008 at 18:27:31
Clinton: Obama Not Winning Over "Hard-Working Americans, White Americans"
Hillary Clinton is not only offensive,she's wrong. About 60% of her supporters-- all those "hard-working, white Americans"-- said they will vote for Obama in the fall if he's the nominee, and that number will go up as soon as she remembers she's a Democrat and starts thinking about the good of the party. posted 05/08/2008 at 11:20:43
Good post! posted 05/08/2008 at 10:59:25
The Clintons need to take a racial sensitivity course. Their choice of words is disgusting. posted 05/08/2008 at 10:55:44
Obama Sees Finish Line, Clinton Clings To Dwindling Support
"Despise" is too strong a word, but I truly *dislike* the superdelegates who still give the second place Clinton about a 15 delegate lead among supers, and who have been clinging with misplaced loyalty to her from the start. They didn't need to weigh the different candidates or come to a responsible decision-- they just lined up behind Clinton dutifully and they won't budge. Obama has been winning over superdelegates the way a candidate should-- by winning. posted 05/08/2008 at 12:49:46
Ed Koch: Obama Is A Sure Loser, Clinton Should Fight On
There's a fine line between being guilty of ageism and suggesting a new generation of Americans (one less hung up on race for instance) is taking over. I recently talked to an 88 year old supporter of Obama, and know of another woman in her nineties who supports him, but quite often the elderly-- when it comes to this election year-- just don't get it. posted 05/07/2008 at 19:23:22
Big Rewards Await Clinton If She Ends Campaign Now
_The Fighter: The Inside Story of My 2008 Presidential Run_ by Hillary Rodham Clinton
Advance from publisher owned by TimeWarner: $10 million posted 05/07/2008 at 19:03:44
Advance from publisher owned by TimeWarner: $10 million posted 05/07/2008 at 19:03:44
Compromise: Obama holds a fundraiser for Clinton in order to pay off her debts. She did this for Senator Cantwell of Washington state. Then people who can afford it can donate. It can be a closed door event (not even Mayhill Fowler will be invited). posted 05/07/2008 at 18:50:23
If 2 million donors giving $6 each could make Clinton go away right now, it would be worth it so Obama could focus on beating McCain. posted 05/07/2008 at 18:44:05
Good point. But if she stays in, Obama may need to raise another $12 million (or more). posted 05/07/2008 at 18:37:12
If Clinton drops out now, Democrats should offer her to be the new chairman for the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on European Affairs after January 2009. posted 05/07/2008 at 18:30:13
What's an Elitist Anyway?
Gore Vidal said a narcissist is someone better looking than you are, so maybe an elitist is someone smarter than you are. Wealth apparently is not a factor-- George W. Bush, son of a president, of big oil, of vast political and business connections, can clear brush on his ranch in Crawford with his sleeves rolled up and he's a man of the people.
America is afraid of smart people because education is so unfamiliar to us. We fear the unknown. Who are these people who read poems (pronounced "pomes") and listen to Mozart (pronounced "Moe's art")? Culture is a threat because A) it's hard, B) it's boring and C) its appreciation implies a certain inequality, whereas anyone is able to go to Best Buy.
An elitist isn't the person who can afford a $12,000 HDTV in every room-- it's the person who prefers the $12 paperback novel by Henry Green.
Of course, Obama really isn't a brainiac. Don't worry. He might write rhythmically interesting prose, but he is essentially a man of action, a man on the move (up). Yet America is insecure about that intellectual wimp with his head so buried in a book he forgets to push the red button when another poor, distant country looks at us the wrong way-- then where would the greatest country in the history of the universe be? posted 05/07/2008 at 17:51:33
America is afraid of smart people because education is so unfamiliar to us. We fear the unknown. Who are these people who read poems (pronounced "pomes") and listen to Mozart (pronounced "Moe's art")? Culture is a threat because A) it's hard, B) it's boring and C) its appreciation implies a certain inequality, whereas anyone is able to go to Best Buy.
An elitist isn't the person who can afford a $12,000 HDTV in every room-- it's the person who prefers the $12 paperback novel by Henry Green.
Of course, Obama really isn't a brainiac. Don't worry. He might write rhythmically interesting prose, but he is essentially a man of action, a man on the move (up). Yet America is insecure about that intellectual wimp with his head so buried in a book he forgets to push the red button when another poor, distant country looks at us the wrong way-- then where would the greatest country in the history of the universe be? posted 05/07/2008 at 17:51:33
Another "The Hillary I Know"
That's terrific! I listed Biden twice but meant my own senator, Ron Wyden. Yet, as you wrote, those who have committed to Clinton can also be contacted. For instance, I wrote to the admirable Chuck Schumer, not asking him to change his endorsement, which he wouldn't do, but to speak to Clinton privately about ending her unwinnable bid.
Sen. Salazar of Colorado is uncommitted and Sen. Akaka of Hawaii. posted 05/08/2008 at 19:08:37
Sen. Salazar of Colorado is uncommitted and Sen. Akaka of Hawaii. posted 05/08/2008 at 19:08:37
"It seems to start with the goal of running Hillary Clinton out of town."
The problem is-- Senator Clinton can't stick around even another day without inflicting more damage on the presumptive nominee. Today she said Obama isn't winning the votes of "hard-working Americans, white Americans." That is something a person in her position should never say. It is racially offensive-- and also offensive to hard-working people who support Obama.
2008 looked like it was going to be such a great year for Democrats-- not only in the White House, but Congress, local seats, all across the country. We were pretty happy with all the candidates. Now it has come down to Senator Clinton saying Obama can't win hard-working white voters. The destructiveness of that language requires those in power to step in and end this before further damage is done.
I am writing to key superdelegates and urging them to endorse Obama now and force Clinton out. Joe Biden's number is 302-573-6345. Also uncommitted: Senators Reid, Reed, Landrieu, Tester, Webb, Lautenberg, Biden, Baucus. Their e-mail addresses are available on their individual Web sites. We can't have Hillary Clinton going around saying Obama won't win white votes. Democrats don't stand for that. posted 05/08/2008 at 17:19:51
The problem is-- Senator Clinton can't stick around even another day without inflicting more damage on the presumptive nominee. Today she said Obama isn't winning the votes of "hard-working Americans, white Americans." That is something a person in her position should never say. It is racially offensive-- and also offensive to hard-working people who support Obama.
2008 looked like it was going to be such a great year for Democrats-- not only in the White House, but Congress, local seats, all across the country. We were pretty happy with all the candidates. Now it has come down to Senator Clinton saying Obama can't win hard-working white voters. The destructiveness of that language requires those in power to step in and end this before further damage is done.
I am writing to key superdelegates and urging them to endorse Obama now and force Clinton out. Joe Biden's number is 302-573-6345. Also uncommitted: Senators Reid, Reed, Landrieu, Tester, Webb, Lautenberg, Biden, Baucus. Their e-mail addresses are available on their individual Web sites. We can't have Hillary Clinton going around saying Obama won't win white votes. Democrats don't stand for that. posted 05/08/2008 at 17:19:51
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The past sixteen months have been Senator Clinton's undoing, by her own Democratic strategists, rather than the horrendous attacks from right-wingers over these many exhausting years.
Clinton had the opportunity to run an historic campaign to match her historic status as the first viable woman candidate for the presidency. She could have followed the main rule of primaries and moved in the direction of her political base, apologizing for her vote for the Iraq war and reestablishing herself as the feminist icon we all love and they hate. She could have used the Internet more effectively to organize a grassroots campaign, exciting young people and making them feel a woman in the White House would be completely new, completely different.
Instead, Clinton ran as a general election candidate from the very start, positioning herself right of center on foreign policy and thinking the country still wanted an image of toughness after eight years of Bush. Passing up Donna Brazile, she went back to Bill's guy, Terry McAuliffe, and overpaid Mark Penn to Swiftboat her own candidacy. Instead of using Bill as cheerful optimist she let him loose as vicious attack dog.
Clinton electable? Absolutely. But first you need to secure the nomination, and sadly she destroyed her own chances for that-- herself. posted 05/16/2008 at 11:58:55