May 18, 2008
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SethBLiNK
Recent comments by this user
"You Don't Quit Until You Finish What You Started"
Is Obama Man Enough To Be a Feminist Too?
First, Ms. Burleigh, let me commend you on staying in the kitchen and taking the heat. I don't agree with much (any) of your posting, but I admire a person who is willing to engage and defend her opinions.
While I do think that domestic violence is an important issue, I don't think that Obama's opinion on OJ or rap lyrics should be the litmus test by which you judge him on this topic.
However, since you do seem to feel these are the important questions AND since, as many have pointed out here, Senator Obama has answered both questions prior to you posing them, I am curious if you have now read those reactions and if they meet with your approval? posted 05/18/2008 at 01:07:57
While I do think that domestic violence is an important issue, I don't think that Obama's opinion on OJ or rap lyrics should be the litmus test by which you judge him on this topic.
However, since you do seem to feel these are the important questions AND since, as many have pointed out here, Senator Obama has answered both questions prior to you posing them, I am curious if you have now read those reactions and if they meet with your approval? posted 05/18/2008 at 01:07:57
Barack Obama is by definition an alpha male. Yes he is youthful looking, slender, somewhat softspoken and at times, intellectual.
He also took the notion that he could be President of the United States and in a remarkably short time, got millions of people to embrace it, even though there was no historical precendent to his candidacy.
With "nothing but words" he got millions to vote, donate and volunteer, including many who had never participated in the process before.
In a day and age when we get our images of masculinity from action movie stars, pro wrestlers, narcissitic rockers and rappers and a president who practices cowboy diplomacy, he chooses to speak with reason and compassion. When his words are twists, he does not react with anger. When his ideas are challenged, he addresses the challenge, without insulting the challenger. And when faced with ignorance, he responds with wisdom.
If you do not consider these the acts of an Alpha Male, then perhaps you've beein taking too many cues from comic books and not enough from history books.
He's not a George Bush-style Alpha Male. He's more like that other Republican... Abe Lincoln. posted 05/18/2008 at 00:46:18
He also took the notion that he could be President of the United States and in a remarkably short time, got millions of people to embrace it, even though there was no historical precendent to his candidacy.
With "nothing but words" he got millions to vote, donate and volunteer, including many who had never participated in the process before.
In a day and age when we get our images of masculinity from action movie stars, pro wrestlers, narcissitic rockers and rappers and a president who practices cowboy diplomacy, he chooses to speak with reason and compassion. When his words are twists, he does not react with anger. When his ideas are challenged, he addresses the challenge, without insulting the challenger. And when faced with ignorance, he responds with wisdom.
If you do not consider these the acts of an Alpha Male, then perhaps you've beein taking too many cues from comic books and not enough from history books.
He's not a George Bush-style Alpha Male. He's more like that other Republican... Abe Lincoln. posted 05/18/2008 at 00:46:18
I'm an Obama fan and I'm a man, but I thought it was actually a positive statement when Tina Fey said "bitch is the new black."
For years, the complaint has been that if a woman acts strong and tough, qualities that are admired in men, she gets labeled a bitch. Rather than complaining about it, I thought Fey was embracing it. Kind of like, I am who I am, and if you want to call me a bitch than I guess it's cool to be a bitch.
Basically, it's changing the game. It's taking ownership of the word and the qualities (many of which are positive) that it embodies. posted 05/18/2008 at 00:35:15
For years, the complaint has been that if a woman acts strong and tough, qualities that are admired in men, she gets labeled a bitch. Rather than complaining about it, I thought Fey was embracing it. Kind of like, I am who I am, and if you want to call me a bitch than I guess it's cool to be a bitch.
Basically, it's changing the game. It's taking ownership of the word and the qualities (many of which are positive) that it embodies. posted 05/18/2008 at 00:35:15
Not sure if this comment was aimed at me or Ms. Burleigh. For the record, when I said "this post" I was referring to Ms. Burleigh's article, not your comment on it, which I agree with. posted 05/18/2008 at 00:19:00
In 8 years in the Illinois State Senate, Obama cast 4,000 votes, which comes to about 2 per day, assuming they convened five days a week fifty weeks a year. Of those 4,000, about 100 were "present". Which means about once a month, legislation came along that for some reason he chose not to vote yes or no. One "present" a month is not a lot, particularly when you consider the reasons for these votes.
Some, like the well-documented one that was being pushed by pro-life republicans for entirely political gain, he was asked by his party to join in solidarity and vote present. Hillary's campaign has jumped on this one vote even though she and her campaign knows. To get the full story, check out this statement by Lorna Brett Howard who was the head of Chicago NOW at the time: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVuMYKs8iJs
There are other cases, where Obama was sympathatic to a cause, but voted present because the legislation itself was worded in a way that he as a Law Professor knew to be unconstitutional.
It's okay that you have read this statistic and repeat it. It's appalling that people like Hillary Clinton, who understand the true nature of those present votes continue to push this distortion. posted 05/18/2008 at 00:14:42
Some, like the well-documented one that was being pushed by pro-life republicans for entirely political gain, he was asked by his party to join in solidarity and vote present. Hillary's campaign has jumped on this one vote even though she and her campaign knows. To get the full story, check out this statement by Lorna Brett Howard who was the head of Chicago NOW at the time: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVuMYKs8iJs
There are other cases, where Obama was sympathatic to a cause, but voted present because the legislation itself was worded in a way that he as a Law Professor knew to be unconstitutional.
It's okay that you have read this statistic and repeat it. It's appalling that people like Hillary Clinton, who understand the true nature of those present votes continue to push this distortion. posted 05/18/2008 at 00:14:42
If they ever vote for the best screen name on the blog, coolmama4obama's gotta be right up there! posted 05/17/2008 at 23:08:30
Once upon a time... January to be exact... many people wondered if Black Women would vote for Hillary because she's a woman or Obama because of race.
My guess is that a good many of them did neither. They voted Obama, but based on race or gender, but based on the candidate.
But still the fact is, there was a time when people thought that segment of the electorate was up for grabs and that their loyalty to Obama could not be assumed. What happened? Feminists like Gloria Steinem asked them go choose gender over race, never realizing that by doing so, they were reducing them to a couple of words, rather than seeing them as whole people with complex thought processes.
Obama's campaign never stooped to that level. They asked voters to vote for the candidate. Not for his skin color or gender.
That's why he won. More precisely, that's why she lost. posted 05/17/2008 at 23:04:28
My guess is that a good many of them did neither. They voted Obama, but based on race or gender, but based on the candidate.
But still the fact is, there was a time when people thought that segment of the electorate was up for grabs and that their loyalty to Obama could not be assumed. What happened? Feminists like Gloria Steinem asked them go choose gender over race, never realizing that by doing so, they were reducing them to a couple of words, rather than seeing them as whole people with complex thought processes.
Obama's campaign never stooped to that level. They asked voters to vote for the candidate. Not for his skin color or gender.
That's why he won. More precisely, that's why she lost. posted 05/17/2008 at 23:04:28
You know the victim card only goes so far. Millions of "older white women" voted for Hillary. That doesn't mean that many "older white women" don't admire Obama, both the ones that voted for him already and those who think he'd make a good second choice if Hillary doesn't get elected.
Anybody who can look at Hillary and Bill's behavior throughout this election and look at Obama's behavior and come out of it thinking that she was treated badly by his campaign, is just seeing what they want to see.
Thinking you're had it tougher than somebody else doesn't make it so. posted 05/17/2008 at 22:58:20
Anybody who can look at Hillary and Bill's behavior throughout this election and look at Obama's behavior and come out of it thinking that she was treated badly by his campaign, is just seeing what they want to see.
Thinking you're had it tougher than somebody else doesn't make it so. posted 05/17/2008 at 22:58:20
This isn't a conundrum. Women didn't defer their own agenda to get a man elected. Two candidates ran. One won, one didn't. People voted their passions, it was exciting and now (or soon, we're not rushing anybody) it is time to move on and run against the Republicans.
Hillary's passionate supporters, especially the ones who were motivated by a desire to see a woman president, might take a little while to get past the disappointment.
And, when the time comes, and Hillary herself accepts it, it should fall to her as a leader to lead... to help the women who supported her to take pride in how far they came, and to embrace the Democratic candidate. I have no doubt that were the tables turned, Barack Obama would do this with grace, generosity and the inspiration he is known for. I'm hoping Hillary cares enough about the future to do the same. posted 05/17/2008 at 22:53:12
Hillary's passionate supporters, especially the ones who were motivated by a desire to see a woman president, might take a little while to get past the disappointment.
And, when the time comes, and Hillary herself accepts it, it should fall to her as a leader to lead... to help the women who supported her to take pride in how far they came, and to embrace the Democratic candidate. I have no doubt that were the tables turned, Barack Obama would do this with grace, generosity and the inspiration he is known for. I'm hoping Hillary cares enough about the future to do the same. posted 05/17/2008 at 22:53:12
JP, how can you consider this a thoughtful post, when its obvious the writer didn't do the minimum of research.
Personally, I think it's rediculous that Obama should feel the need to answer for OJ or rappers, but if the author wants him to, one would think she would do the most cursory research to learn that he has already commented on both topics numerous times (and in his usual fashion, spoke on these subjects with intelligence and insight. posted 05/17/2008 at 22:42:39
Personally, I think it's rediculous that Obama should feel the need to answer for OJ or rappers, but if the author wants him to, one would think she would do the most cursory research to learn that he has already commented on both topics numerous times (and in his usual fashion, spoke on these subjects with intelligence and insight. posted 05/17/2008 at 22:42:39
I think that under any other circumstance, Barack Obama would be considered as progressive a man on the subject of feminism as has ever run for the Presidency. I base this on his voting record (In Illinois and DC) and his behavior.
And by any other circumstances I mean were he not given the onerous task of defeating the first truly viable female candidate for President.
As an African American, he's been put under the microscope more than most. As a man running against a woman, he gets even more scrutiny. And he's done remarkably well with all of it. posted 05/17/2008 at 22:34:31
And by any other circumstances I mean were he not given the onerous task of defeating the first truly viable female candidate for President.
As an African American, he's been put under the microscope more than most. As a man running against a woman, he gets even more scrutiny. And he's done remarkably well with all of it. posted 05/17/2008 at 22:34:31
Yes there are black men who are successful in their own right without the help of affirmative action.
And every one of them probably gets asked to state his position on OJ Simpson and rap lyrics more often than he would like.
This post is pretty remarkable in its small-mindedness. posted 05/17/2008 at 22:29:36
And every one of them probably gets asked to state his position on OJ Simpson and rap lyrics more often than he would like.
This post is pretty remarkable in its small-mindedness. posted 05/17/2008 at 22:29:36
Good points, Allonfla.
In fact, Obama showed how a candidate could run a race NOT based on testicular fortitude and still win. Perhaps it would have been difficult for Hillary, a woman, to run a race like Obama did, with reason replacing bluster and conciliation replacing one-upmanship, but the fact is, she didn't even try. She tried to out-tough the guys and Obama won by being speaking softly, listening and having the right answers for the important questions. posted 05/17/2008 at 16:29:38
In fact, Obama showed how a candidate could run a race NOT based on testicular fortitude and still win. Perhaps it would have been difficult for Hillary, a woman, to run a race like Obama did, with reason replacing bluster and conciliation replacing one-upmanship, but the fact is, she didn't even try. She tried to out-tough the guys and Obama won by being speaking softly, listening and having the right answers for the important questions. posted 05/17/2008 at 16:29:38
Is it not enough that Obama has been held accountable for the words of Reverand Wright?
He made a statement that could have opened up a dialog to discuss the bigger questions of race in this country, an invitation that has been largely ignored.
Now you want him to answer for OJ too? Why? You have more in common with OJ than Barack does. You had a white mother, I presume. So did Barack. You had an American father, I presume. So did OJ? Barack didn't. You grew up in a racially integrated city. So did OJ. Barack grew up in Hawaii surrounded by white and Asian kids and very few blacks.
And rap music? I'm sure if asked, Senator Obama would give a very insightful view of the genre, complete with an appreciation for its artistic merits and concern over its cultural influence, with the fact that he is the father of two young daughters playing as big a roll in his opinions as the fact that he is of African descent.
As an African-American candidate, running against a female candidate, Obama has had to answer more question, both relevent and not, on race and gender than any other candidate in memory. And you insist that he answer more, though such a discussion would almost certainly distract from the far more important discussions to be had at this point. posted 05/17/2008 at 16:26:43
He made a statement that could have opened up a dialog to discuss the bigger questions of race in this country, an invitation that has been largely ignored.
Now you want him to answer for OJ too? Why? You have more in common with OJ than Barack does. You had a white mother, I presume. So did Barack. You had an American father, I presume. So did OJ? Barack didn't. You grew up in a racially integrated city. So did OJ. Barack grew up in Hawaii surrounded by white and Asian kids and very few blacks.
And rap music? I'm sure if asked, Senator Obama would give a very insightful view of the genre, complete with an appreciation for its artistic merits and concern over its cultural influence, with the fact that he is the father of two young daughters playing as big a roll in his opinions as the fact that he is of African descent.
As an African-American candidate, running against a female candidate, Obama has had to answer more question, both relevent and not, on race and gender than any other candidate in memory. And you insist that he answer more, though such a discussion would almost certainly distract from the far more important discussions to be had at this point. posted 05/17/2008 at 16:26:43
It may not be important that you don't know what became of any of them, but it is interesting that of all the paths their lives have since taken, you chose to enumerate only three: prison, the post office and corporate success with help from affirmative action. I realize you were only giving examples, but since you have no idea what they are doing and are only guessing, the examples are telling. posted 05/17/2008 at 16:10:22
Obama's Struggle With Typical Liberal Hypocrisy
But you know there was that moment...
Right after the first uproar over the Rev. Wright snippets, when Obama chose treat America as a country full of honest grown-ups and to address the bigger issue of race rather than focus on a few quotes from a guy who wasn't running for everything.
And for one beautiful days, people were actually talking about it and listening and maybe even seeing things in a way they hadn't seen before.
And then every made a fuss over Obama calling his grandmother a typical white person, and Hillary said he wouldn't have been her pastor, and Stephanopoulus asked who loved their country more, and Wright told Moyers that Obama was responding as a politician and everybody just went back to acting silly. posted 05/16/2008 at 22:19:04
Right after the first uproar over the Rev. Wright snippets, when Obama chose treat America as a country full of honest grown-ups and to address the bigger issue of race rather than focus on a few quotes from a guy who wasn't running for everything.
And for one beautiful days, people were actually talking about it and listening and maybe even seeing things in a way they hadn't seen before.
And then every made a fuss over Obama calling his grandmother a typical white person, and Hillary said he wouldn't have been her pastor, and Stephanopoulus asked who loved their country more, and Wright told Moyers that Obama was responding as a politician and everybody just went back to acting silly. posted 05/16/2008 at 22:19:04
Electing Sweetie
Do you really think that Hillary has been "vetted" when she has run an entire primary race without anybody bringing up the worst aspects of her husband's Presidency? Talk about the Republicans having a field day.
As for Obama accomplishing nothing, what about securing the nomination? Is it nothing for a candidate to use the internet to reach out to new voters and out-raise the far more established candidate. To outspend your rival in the most crucial contests and still NOT go over budget? To win the very first contest in an overwhelmingly white state? To fight the favorite to a tie on Super Tuesday, while building an organization in the states that follow, the states that ultimately decided this race?
Is it nothing to resist the temptation to bring up Whitewater and Monica? To take a pass on Bosniagate, because in the end it's really not that important, even though your opponent has missed no opportunity to pile on against you. And, when faced with a friend who reinforces every fear about your candidacy, to not renounce him, but to make a thoughtful and reasonable speech that addresses it in a broader context, opening a dialog that MUST be opened but that everybody else in your position has run from.
It's a great enough thing just to do all that, but to do all that and win... that's really something.
Erica, does having a fear of flying mean you must forever resist a transcendent candidate? posted 05/16/2008 at 11:47:52
As for Obama accomplishing nothing, what about securing the nomination? Is it nothing for a candidate to use the internet to reach out to new voters and out-raise the far more established candidate. To outspend your rival in the most crucial contests and still NOT go over budget? To win the very first contest in an overwhelmingly white state? To fight the favorite to a tie on Super Tuesday, while building an organization in the states that follow, the states that ultimately decided this race?
Is it nothing to resist the temptation to bring up Whitewater and Monica? To take a pass on Bosniagate, because in the end it's really not that important, even though your opponent has missed no opportunity to pile on against you. And, when faced with a friend who reinforces every fear about your candidacy, to not renounce him, but to make a thoughtful and reasonable speech that addresses it in a broader context, opening a dialog that MUST be opened but that everybody else in your position has run from.
It's a great enough thing just to do all that, but to do all that and win... that's really something.
Erica, does having a fear of flying mean you must forever resist a transcendent candidate? posted 05/16/2008 at 11:47:52
Chris Matthews Eviscerates Right-Wing Host Kevin James Over Obama "Appeasement" Claims
When the dust settles, and Obama is officially the candidate, I think even Hillary will watch this tape and say, "well done, Mr. Matthews."
And nice assist Mark Green... "when you're in a hole, don't keep digging." Classic. posted 05/15/2008 at 21:12:12
And nice assist Mark Green... "when you're in a hole, don't keep digging." Classic. posted 05/15/2008 at 21:12:12
Bush Uses Holy Land Pulpit to Launch Smear Campaign
I scoffed at the thought that Obama and Clinton could unite for the general election, but leave it to that great diplomat, George W. to actually bring the Democratic Party together again. posted 05/16/2008 at 12:05:37
GOP Rep. Uses Term 'Tar Baby' In Memo About Obama, Election
It's clear from the context that the guy was referring to the situation, and using the term correctly and not using it as a racial slur.
We can't criticize somebody for accusing Obama of calling Israel a "sore" (he was referring to the situation, not the country) and not give this guy the same pass.
C'mon people. We have plenty to win this election on without the gotcha politics. posted 05/14/2008 at 19:55:13
We can't criticize somebody for accusing Obama of calling Israel a "sore" (he was referring to the situation, not the country) and not give this guy the same pass.
C'mon people. We have plenty to win this election on without the gotcha politics. posted 05/14/2008 at 19:55:13
Does Obama Even Need The Jewish Vote?
I and my fellow jews have a certain amount of sway in politics for a number of reasons. One is that we vote. Jews traditionally exhibit high voter turnout.
Another is that we donate. My landsman raise and donate a disproportionally high percentage of the money donated to campaigns and causes.
And finally there is influence. We're opinionated, outspoken and represented in the media and other areas in number disproportionate to our size.
So how much of that does Obama "need"? He has inspired traditionally lower turnout demographic groups to vote. If young people and black people turn up in the same numbers as older jews, older jews become less special.
Money? He gets more than he needs from the internet.
Influence? He's generating plenty of passion on both sides on his own.
Some of us are going to vote for Obama, and some aren't. But the disproportionate amount of anti-Obama vote that is anticipated is predicated on some jews continuing to be confused and ignorant about who he is and what he stands for.
My people are a lot of things, but confused and ignorant are't two of them. Once Hillary stops saying nasty things about Obama, those Jews who think we need to be in Iraq to protect Israel will vote McCain, and the rest will vote Obama.
And if I'm wrong he'll win anyway, because as many above have said, he is building a concensus that does not depend entirely on any one group. posted 05/14/2008 at 16:44:15
Another is that we donate. My landsman raise and donate a disproportionally high percentage of the money donated to campaigns and causes.
And finally there is influence. We're opinionated, outspoken and represented in the media and other areas in number disproportionate to our size.
So how much of that does Obama "need"? He has inspired traditionally lower turnout demographic groups to vote. If young people and black people turn up in the same numbers as older jews, older jews become less special.
Money? He gets more than he needs from the internet.
Influence? He's generating plenty of passion on both sides on his own.
Some of us are going to vote for Obama, and some aren't. But the disproportionate amount of anti-Obama vote that is anticipated is predicated on some jews continuing to be confused and ignorant about who he is and what he stands for.
My people are a lot of things, but confused and ignorant are't two of them. Once Hillary stops saying nasty things about Obama, those Jews who think we need to be in Iraq to protect Israel will vote McCain, and the rest will vote Obama.
And if I'm wrong he'll win anyway, because as many above have said, he is building a concensus that does not depend entirely on any one group. posted 05/14/2008 at 16:44:15
Sue Simmons (Video): New York NBC Anchor Screams "What The F*** Are You Doing?" In On-Air Promo
First that O'Reilly thing from 20 years ago and now this. Anchoring must be a high stress job. They all look so pleasant on the air. You'd think they'd learn to watch their language until after they've angrily ripped their mikes off.
I like the apology. She refers to a word that "some people find offensive." And she calls it a mistake. Wonder if that will suffice. posted 05/13/2008 at 09:13:34
I like the apology. She refers to a word that "some people find offensive." And she calls it a mistake. Wonder if that will suffice. posted 05/13/2008 at 09:13:34
Barbara Walters On Star Jones' Verbal Barbs: "Poor Woman"
I like Barbara. She's an icon and the real deal. Saw her speak to a group once and she came off as a very genuine person. I'm with her until proven otherwise. posted 05/13/2008 at 00:54:23
Obama Muslim Smear Resurfaces: NYT Op-Ed Tags Obama As Muslim 'Apostate'
Remember when Muslim fundamentalists put a price on Salmon Rushdie's head. Last I heard, he was still making the tv and cocktail party circuit. Unless their "plan" for revenge was to get a superhot model to fall for him and then leave him, I'd say they failed.
If we can keep Salmon Rushdie safe, my guess is that we can keep Obama safe. posted 05/12/2008 at 20:43:28
If we can keep Salmon Rushdie safe, my guess is that we can keep Obama safe. posted 05/12/2008 at 20:43:28
Hillary's Gift to Women
Many thought that this would be the year that American voters would finally show the wisdom to reject the macho posturing that we've grown tired of from males in favor of some of the qualities more associated with female leaders... concensus building, openness to new ideas, a willingness to talk and reason.
And guess what? They did? However, these more traditionally feminine traits were offered by Obama, while Hillary was authorizing wars and promising obliteration. Just when America was ready for a woman President, Hillary decided to run as a guy, only tougher.
It's all about timing. posted 05/12/2008 at 18:09:15
And guess what? They did? However, these more traditionally feminine traits were offered by Obama, while Hillary was authorizing wars and promising obliteration. Just when America was ready for a woman President, Hillary decided to run as a guy, only tougher.
It's all about timing. posted 05/12/2008 at 18:09:15
Remember how Hillary jumped on Obama when he said he would go after terrorists in Pakistan with or without that government's cooperation? Then she turns around and starts talking about obliterating Iran based on a hypothetical.
Yes, if Iran bombs toddlers we should probably bomb them back, but when a candidate starts talking hypothetical obliteration just to show how tough she is, I question her judgement. posted 05/12/2008 at 17:59:00
Yes, if Iran bombs toddlers we should probably bomb them back, but when a candidate starts talking hypothetical obliteration just to show how tough she is, I question her judgement. posted 05/12/2008 at 17:59:00
They historically supported minorities when it served them to do so, and they quickly abandoned them when it was no longer helpful. Yes, the FOX folks piled on with the Wright thing. That's their job. Stating "what might be a fact" means stating your opinion. And if your opinion demeans your party's likely candidate for President it's best to keep to yourself. posted 05/12/2008 at 17:55:58
Get over it?
The single most damaging decision of the last godknowshowmany years, and your answer is to get over it? Of the 20 or so people who ran for President this year, about half supported the war and still support it. Three (Obama, Kucinich and Paul) didn't like it then and don't like it now, and the rest have changed their mind. However, of the ones who changed their mind after the fact, Hillary is the only one who has continued to defend her own actions. If it comes down t a race between Hillary and somebody who thinks we should stay there for another 100 years, I'm all for Hillary. But I'd rather have somebody who was right from day one. posted 05/12/2008 at 17:52:14
The single most damaging decision of the last godknowshowmany years, and your answer is to get over it? Of the 20 or so people who ran for President this year, about half supported the war and still support it. Three (Obama, Kucinich and Paul) didn't like it then and don't like it now, and the rest have changed their mind. However, of the ones who changed their mind after the fact, Hillary is the only one who has continued to defend her own actions. If it comes down t a race between Hillary and somebody who thinks we should stay there for another 100 years, I'm all for Hillary. But I'd rather have somebody who was right from day one. posted 05/12/2008 at 17:52:14
Top 10 Reasons Obama Defeated Clinton for the Democratic Nomination
You nailed it Robert. It was all about inspiration and execution. Without the execution, he would have been just another dreamer. Without the inspiration, the execution wouldn't matter.
Anybody who still needs evidence of his leadership skills should just look to this campaign as evidence of everything you look for in a President. posted 05/12/2008 at 21:08:29
Anybody who still needs evidence of his leadership skills should just look to this campaign as evidence of everything you look for in a President. posted 05/12/2008 at 21:08:29
There's a typo on the last word. The word you're looking for is "winning" not "whining". posted 05/12/2008 at 21:04:45
Obama In Kentucky And West Virginia: Why Will He Lose?
We can sort of assume that Hillary's gender is neutral or positive. 11% of the voters say it's a negative (but there are probably more men who feel that way but don't admit it). 14% say her gender is a negative (but again, there are probably more women feel that way and don't admit it). Considering that women voters outnumber men in just about every contest, her gender is neither helping nor hurting her much.
56% of white say Obama's race isn't important. Which means that 44% either say it is or didn't answer. You have to assume that almost all of those 44% are NOT going to vote for Obama. You can also assume that for some of the 56% it's important, but they're not admitting it. His race is also more important to black voters than they are admitting, but most Kentuckians are white, so net net, if you only take the voters for whom gender and race is important, she picks up a huge lead.
Among the rest of the voters, the ones that are truely looking at this open mindedly, it's still a demographic she has been shown to appeal to and the fact that she is the underdog now and is sticking in it, seems to appeal to voters. Time and again, voters in this race have defied the oddsmakers. posted 05/12/2008 at 16:03:46
56% of white say Obama's race isn't important. Which means that 44% either say it is or didn't answer. You have to assume that almost all of those 44% are NOT going to vote for Obama. You can also assume that for some of the 56% it's important, but they're not admitting it. His race is also more important to black voters than they are admitting, but most Kentuckians are white, so net net, if you only take the voters for whom gender and race is important, she picks up a huge lead.
Among the rest of the voters, the ones that are truely looking at this open mindedly, it's still a demographic she has been shown to appeal to and the fact that she is the underdog now and is sticking in it, seems to appeal to voters. Time and again, voters in this race have defied the oddsmakers. posted 05/12/2008 at 16:03:46
Clinton Campaign In $20 Million Of Debt, Campaign Chair Says Clinton Could Lend More Money
A senate race that cost $36 million even though she was virtually uncontested.
An unsuccessful Presidential race that is $20 million in debt and still goes on.
Seems to me like she'll be ready on day one... to drive us deeper into debt. posted 05/12/2008 at 09:39:52
An unsuccessful Presidential race that is $20 million in debt and still goes on.
Seems to me like she'll be ready on day one... to drive us deeper into debt. posted 05/12/2008 at 09:39:52
Open Letter to Two Undeclared College Superdelegates
It's kind of funny that among the superdelegates that are always portrayed as party insiders are two college students.
Kal, chill. It's time for everybody to just take a step back and let all the candidates and superdelegates make their own decisions. They don't need anybody telling them what they need to do. posted 05/11/2008 at 20:49:41
Kal, chill. It's time for everybody to just take a step back and let all the candidates and superdelegates make their own decisions. They don't need anybody telling them what they need to do. posted 05/11/2008 at 20:49:41
Recognizing the Race Chasm
Overt racism is a thing of the past, replaced by the subtle racism that has been on display this campaign season.
When Geraldine Ferraro said that Obama's race was helping him to do so well (dismissing his remarkable accomplishment) it touched a chord in many people who, like Ferraro, would strongly resist the racist label. They're liberal democrats. They fought for civil rights. They celebrate Martin Luther King Day, but still, with minds that grew up in the latter day of Jim Crow, and that silently tolerated what they saw as the excesses of Affirmative Action, the thought of a young black man earning the Presidency just seems difficult to fathom.
Her statement was ludicrous. How is it easier for a man who is seen as different than 90% of the voters and 100% of the all the previous Presidents, VPs and candidates for both slots helped by this difference? But voters looking for a reason NOT to support to Obama grabbed onto that one. Ferraro's liberal bone fides gave them permission.
All of which makes it all the more remarkable that a candidate in the middle of a heated campaign, chose to make a speech that discussed all the nuances of Americas racial discomfort, and in so doing proved that you can talk about the real issues and still win. posted 05/12/2008 at 10:28:39
When Geraldine Ferraro said that Obama's race was helping him to do so well (dismissing his remarkable accomplishment) it touched a chord in many people who, like Ferraro, would strongly resist the racist label. They're liberal democrats. They fought for civil rights. They celebrate Martin Luther King Day, but still, with minds that grew up in the latter day of Jim Crow, and that silently tolerated what they saw as the excesses of Affirmative Action, the thought of a young black man earning the Presidency just seems difficult to fathom.
Her statement was ludicrous. How is it easier for a man who is seen as different than 90% of the voters and 100% of the all the previous Presidents, VPs and candidates for both slots helped by this difference? But voters looking for a reason NOT to support to Obama grabbed onto that one. Ferraro's liberal bone fides gave them permission.
All of which makes it all the more remarkable that a candidate in the middle of a heated campaign, chose to make a speech that discussed all the nuances of Americas racial discomfort, and in so doing proved that you can talk about the real issues and still win. posted 05/12/2008 at 10:28:39
Bill Kristol Predicts Obama Veep As...Dick Gephardt?
It's funny how Obama has redefined politics in so many ways and everybody is going so traditional in their VP choices or him.
But there is one tradition Obama would be smart to remember. The VP is always considered the next presidential candidate. As much as they want to "balance the ticket" with a little age, the veep can't be so old that in 8 years, age would be an issue. In 8 years, Gephart would be older than McCain is now. Jim Webb, Ed Rendell and for that matter Hillary Clinton and Bill Richardson are all at least 60. A 68+ year old candidate is going to seem awfully old in 2016 when the outgoing President Obama still has kids in high school.
John Edwards, on the other hand is not only in his 50s but looks very youthful (not to mention great white working class appeal and that southern accent). Casey is 48, about as young as Obama, but in 8 years, he'd be just right.
Also, if he doesn't pick a woman, that means that women who fought hard for Hillary would have to wait a minimum of 16 years for a democratic woman president. Kathleen Sebelius is a tiny bit younger, and Claire McCaskill is just the right age (plus she seems to have good chemistry with Obama. McCaskill is from the same part of the country as he is, but Clinton did okay with Gore. posted 05/11/2008 at 20:41:38
But there is one tradition Obama would be smart to remember. The VP is always considered the next presidential candidate. As much as they want to "balance the ticket" with a little age, the veep can't be so old that in 8 years, age would be an issue. In 8 years, Gephart would be older than McCain is now. Jim Webb, Ed Rendell and for that matter Hillary Clinton and Bill Richardson are all at least 60. A 68+ year old candidate is going to seem awfully old in 2016 when the outgoing President Obama still has kids in high school.
John Edwards, on the other hand is not only in his 50s but looks very youthful (not to mention great white working class appeal and that southern accent). Casey is 48, about as young as Obama, but in 8 years, he'd be just right.
Also, if he doesn't pick a woman, that means that women who fought hard for Hillary would have to wait a minimum of 16 years for a democratic woman president. Kathleen Sebelius is a tiny bit younger, and Claire McCaskill is just the right age (plus she seems to have good chemistry with Obama. McCaskill is from the same part of the country as he is, but Clinton did okay with Gore. posted 05/11/2008 at 20:41:38
What Should Obama Do In West Virginia and Kentucky?
Obama has a general election to prepare for, and as he said on David Letterman, he hasn't slept since October. It seems that no matter what he does, he's going to lose both states by a huge margin and no matter how much he loses by, he's still going to be the nominee.
So why spend his precious time and energy there now, while Hillary is bad-mouthing him. He's got six months to revisit these states without having a democrat on his heals saying nasty things about him. Maybe in exchange for whatever favors she'll elicit from him, Hillary and Bill can go back to all these states themselves and campaign for Obama in the general. Seems the least they can do.
Obama has two young kids, a wife, a job in the Senate and a daunting challenge ahead. All those seem higher priority than expending much effort in a state that's going to give him a defeat anyway. posted 05/12/2008 at 00:38:48
So why spend his precious time and energy there now, while Hillary is bad-mouthing him. He's got six months to revisit these states without having a democrat on his heals saying nasty things about him. Maybe in exchange for whatever favors she'll elicit from him, Hillary and Bill can go back to all these states themselves and campaign for Obama in the general. Seems the least they can do.
Obama has two young kids, a wife, a job in the Senate and a daunting challenge ahead. All those seem higher priority than expending much effort in a state that's going to give him a defeat anyway. posted 05/12/2008 at 00:38:48
Jenna Bush Wedding Pictures
As John McCain says, may you live together for 100 years.
What? He wasn't talking about this? Oh, really, he wanted that to last 100 years?
Well, anyway... best of luck. posted 05/12/2008 at 09:45:38
What? He wasn't talking about this? Oh, really, he wanted that to last 100 years?
Well, anyway... best of luck. posted 05/12/2008 at 09:45:38
The Presidency of Al Gore, 2001-2009
I thought the nightmare was going to end with second thoughts about Lieberman and perhaps a switch to a new Vice President. Riding a wave of popularity, Gore could choose just about anybody, so maybe he would pick an obscure State Senator from Chicago and everybody would wonder, why did he pick that guy, and then the guy would get up to speak at the Democratic Convention, and... well, you know the rest. posted 05/12/2008 at 10:00:59
Clinton goes from inevitable nominee to on the ropes
Let's give credit where it's due. Obama won it with flawless strategy and execution.
So-called experts derided his plan of using grass-roots tactics to get first time voters to caucus in Iowa, but he shocked everyone with a big victory that proved his cross-over appeal.
By the time they realized how formidable he was, he had already raised a ton of money, organized an army of supporters and proved that he was a viable candidate to white voters.
The next thing Obama did right was read the rulebook. His campaign understood the implications of proportional delegate voting, and the difference between caucus and primary states. They focused their efforts in states where it would make the most difference and earned a draw on Super Tuesday.
Clearly, Hillary expected to be the presumptive nominee at that point, and that's when Obama won. By having organizations and strategies in place, and by raising money from small internet donors, Obama positioned himself to surge to the lead just as Hillary was catching her breath.
Her team didn't realize that the structure of the Texas contests would net her little and that even Ohio and Pennsylvania would not overcome the February debacle.
Talk all you want about demographics, inspiration, identity politics, change, experience, , Obama won it with superior strategy and organization.
And he did it without ever breaking a sweat. posted 05/11/2008 at 15:20:34
So-called experts derided his plan of using grass-roots tactics to get first time voters to caucus in Iowa, but he shocked everyone with a big victory that proved his cross-over appeal.
By the time they realized how formidable he was, he had already raised a ton of money, organized an army of supporters and proved that he was a viable candidate to white voters.
The next thing Obama did right was read the rulebook. His campaign understood the implications of proportional delegate voting, and the difference between caucus and primary states. They focused their efforts in states where it would make the most difference and earned a draw on Super Tuesday.
Clearly, Hillary expected to be the presumptive nominee at that point, and that's when Obama won. By having organizations and strategies in place, and by raising money from small internet donors, Obama positioned himself to surge to the lead just as Hillary was catching her breath.
Her team didn't realize that the structure of the Texas contests would net her little and that even Ohio and Pennsylvania would not overcome the February debacle.
Talk all you want about demographics, inspiration, identity politics, change, experience, , Obama won it with superior strategy and organization.
And he did it without ever breaking a sweat. posted 05/11/2008 at 15:20:34
McAuliffe Says Russert's Dad Is 'Watching From Heaven' -- He's Alive (VIDEO)
Well in that case, Happy Mother's Day to Russ's dad.
As for the anything is possible line, that's the new mantra over there in Denialland. Carole Simpson was on Larry King the other night saying, anything is possible, right after saying she didn't think it was possible for Obama to get the white vote. posted 05/11/2008 at 12:13:07
As for the anything is possible line, that's the new mantra over there in Denialland. Carole Simpson was on Larry King the other night saying, anything is possible, right after saying she didn't think it was possible for Obama to get the white vote. posted 05/11/2008 at 12:13:07
Hillary Clinton's Legacy
Hillary has run a decidedly masculine race... and lost, and Obama has run a somewhat feminine race... and won.
Obama's been all about concensus building; avoiding ugly confrontations and NOT taking every opportunity to take advantage of a rival.
Hillary has been the street fighter. never realizing that America is ready for the the kind of feminine leadership that would represent a total departure from the last eight years.
As for Faludi's celebration of Hillary's street brawler emergence, imagine the scorn that would have been heaped on a male candidate who complained about getting asked the first question at debates, or who made her fictitious Bosnia claims.
Interestingly, when Hillary "cried" in New Hampshire, many thought it would end her candidacy. Instead, it breathed new life into it. The lesson to be learned was that a woman wouldn't be punished for showing vulnerability and Hillary could benefit by it.
In proving that she was as tough as any guy in the game, she also came off as somebody with something to prove. Using her tactics against an intraparty rival is NOT part of the standard game-plan. History will show that her vote on Iraq was probably the deciding factor in this race. Her tough guy act just gave credence to the thought that the vote was an attempt to establish her macho bone fides and NOT a vote for what she believed best or this country. posted 05/10/2008 at 22:36:24
Obama's been all about concensus building; avoiding ugly confrontations and NOT taking every opportunity to take advantage of a rival.
Hillary has been the street fighter. never realizing that America is ready for the the kind of feminine leadership that would represent a total departure from the last eight years.
As for Faludi's celebration of Hillary's street brawler emergence, imagine the scorn that would have been heaped on a male candidate who complained about getting asked the first question at debates, or who made her fictitious Bosnia claims.
Interestingly, when Hillary "cried" in New Hampshire, many thought it would end her candidacy. Instead, it breathed new life into it. The lesson to be learned was that a woman wouldn't be punished for showing vulnerability and Hillary could benefit by it.
In proving that she was as tough as any guy in the game, she also came off as somebody with something to prove. Using her tactics against an intraparty rival is NOT part of the standard game-plan. History will show that her vote on Iraq was probably the deciding factor in this race. Her tough guy act just gave credence to the thought that the vote was an attempt to establish her macho bone fides and NOT a vote for what she believed best or this country. posted 05/10/2008 at 22:36:24
Reading The Pictures: John and Cindy's 2000 Vote: The Matter Of The Children
I bet there are some people on the fence who would be more likely to vote for McCain if he said that he didn't vote for Bush in 2000.
Just saw some video of McCain in 2000 and if that version were running now against Obama, I'd be worried. Not as much worried about this more recent compromised version.
Call me naive, but I really do think this will be a somewhat civil campaign. And the debates should be exciting. After 21 debates between Barack and Hillary, it will be nice to see people who disagree on big issues go at each other, rather than two people who basically agree on the big stuff trying to split hairs.
She's 53? Don't care much for her politics, but she is a fine looking woman. posted 05/12/2008 at 00:50:26
Just saw some video of McCain in 2000 and if that version were running now against Obama, I'd be worried. Not as much worried about this more recent compromised version.
Call me naive, but I really do think this will be a somewhat civil campaign. And the debates should be exciting. After 21 debates between Barack and Hillary, it will be nice to see people who disagree on big issues go at each other, rather than two people who basically agree on the big stuff trying to split hairs.
She's 53? Don't care much for her politics, but she is a fine looking woman. posted 05/12/2008 at 00:50:26
Hillary Said It Wrong But Got It Right About Hard Working, White Americans
The early question on Obama was could he win the votes of white people. He can. Then the question of whether black women would vote for a black man, or a white woman. We know how that one turned out. Then people started looking at white men and Obama was competitive there as well.
Now, with the nomination all but lost, this is suddenly this group: a group defined not only by race, but also geography, education level and income.
So now a candidate is suspect even though he wins the votes of young whites, well-to-do whites, urban whites, and college educated whites, as well as blacks of EVERY age, gender, education and income level.
It's not just that, but also look at how Hillary and Bill have targetted those voters. They have played a zero-sum game trading the loyalty-based support of black voters for the fear-based support of working class whites.
And it didn't have to be that way. Just because Obama is black doesn't mean he was destined to win 90% of the black vote. Had the Clintons not made the choices they did, they would have done better with blacks and maybe not quite as well with whites. But by using polarizing tactics, they got to point to both figures (his dominance with blacks, and hers with whites) as weaknesses for Obama. That's one way to run, but it's not a very admirable way, nor, it turns out, an effective way. posted 05/10/2008 at 20:30:28
Now, with the nomination all but lost, this is suddenly this group: a group defined not only by race, but also geography, education level and income.
So now a candidate is suspect even though he wins the votes of young whites, well-to-do whites, urban whites, and college educated whites, as well as blacks of EVERY age, gender, education and income level.
It's not just that, but also look at how Hillary and Bill have targetted those voters. They have played a zero-sum game trading the loyalty-based support of black voters for the fear-based support of working class whites.
And it didn't have to be that way. Just because Obama is black doesn't mean he was destined to win 90% of the black vote. Had the Clintons not made the choices they did, they would have done better with blacks and maybe not quite as well with whites. But by using polarizing tactics, they got to point to both figures (his dominance with blacks, and hers with whites) as weaknesses for Obama. That's one way to run, but it's not a very admirable way, nor, it turns out, an effective way. posted 05/10/2008 at 20:30:28
Hillary's Chances: Growing Chorus Says It's Not Going To Happen
Just think... if John Edwards had stuck around for one more week, he would have been in all the Super Tuesday races. He might have amassed as many as 100 delegates and he would be the most powerful person in the party now.
Why didn't he? Because he knew he had no chance of winning. Because he would have been spending money his campaign didn't have. Because he would have been distracting voters from the candidates who still had a chance. Because he knew ultimately it was the best thing for the party, for him to read the writing on the wall and step down.
Imagine quiting for those reasons. How quaint. posted 05/09/2008 at 19:38:31
Why didn't he? Because he knew he had no chance of winning. Because he would have been spending money his campaign didn't have. Because he would have been distracting voters from the candidates who still had a chance. Because he knew ultimately it was the best thing for the party, for him to read the writing on the wall and step down.
Imagine quiting for those reasons. How quaint. posted 05/09/2008 at 19:38:31
Five Stages of Grief for the Winning Side, Too
There seems to be a tendency to confuse the candidate, who has been quite gracious and generous with his rival, and his backers, who tend to be less so.
Let's not confuse them. Obama is politely holding off on declaring victory, allowing Hillary to wrap herself around the concept in her own time. Meanwhile, he's going about his business, focusing on the general election.
His followers on the other hand, and I count myself among them, feel the need to respond to every barb in kind.
It would be nice if everybody could chill, but assuming that's not possible, it would be nice if we would all notice how calmly our candidate is handling all this. posted 05/10/2008 at 19:51:07
Let's not confuse them. Obama is politely holding off on declaring victory, allowing Hillary to wrap herself around the concept in her own time. Meanwhile, he's going about his business, focusing on the general election.
His followers on the other hand, and I count myself among them, feel the need to respond to every barb in kind.
It would be nice if everybody could chill, but assuming that's not possible, it would be nice if we would all notice how calmly our candidate is handling all this. posted 05/10/2008 at 19:51:07
Yeah, no doubt about it, West Virginia and Kentucky are the primaries that tell us everything. Well, those two and Michigan and Florida. Those other states, who cares about them? posted 05/10/2008 at 19:47:23
Truth Alert: McCain's Freudian Slip is Showing (and Very Telling)
John McCain does not have to lie or get caught lying to lose in November. There are factions of his party that are pressuring him to take stances that alienate him with independents, moderates and undecideds. He continues to run as if he's in the primary and they continue to rebuke him. In PA, IN, and NC, over 20% of republicans who took the time to show up at the polls went to that effort to cast a protest vote for Romney, Huckabee or Paul.
And one thing you know, these weren't democrats trying to do a Limbaugh. These were people knowing who the candidate was, knowing who his opponent might be and still taking the time to tell McCain that he wasn't socially or fiscally conservative enough for them.
The GOP demands a lot of their candidates. And especially for a guy like McCain, who has built a reputation for being independent and who could have a shot at winning if he were allowed to be himself, he's allowing his party to pull him off his game (and then they aren't supporting him anyway).
Meanwhile, he's leaving the court wide open for Obama (or Hillary) to move to the center and woo away the moderates. posted 05/10/2008 at 12:51:11
And one thing you know, these weren't democrats trying to do a Limbaugh. These were people knowing who the candidate was, knowing who his opponent might be and still taking the time to tell McCain that he wasn't socially or fiscally conservative enough for them.
The GOP demands a lot of their candidates. And especially for a guy like McCain, who has built a reputation for being independent and who could have a shot at winning if he were allowed to be himself, he's allowing his party to pull him off his game (and then they aren't supporting him anyway).
Meanwhile, he's leaving the court wide open for Obama (or Hillary) to move to the center and woo away the moderates. posted 05/10/2008 at 12:51:11
Barack Obama's Campaign is Losing its Bearings
Unlike Obama's race or Hillary's gender, McCain's age is fair game. Being black or female doesn't impair your mental abilities. Aging does. We gain wisdom over the years but lose a step of two in other areas. McCain, unfortunately, seems to have also lost wisdom since he captured so many voters' imaginations eight years ago.
But still, saying that he lost his bearings isn't a direct assault on the age issue, whatever the implied intention might have been. Assuming it was, taking the bait and responding as they have, they have helped paint their candidate as the grumpy old man many see him as.
My guess is that they are going to use this as permission to go after Obama with whatever they've got and not play nice. I think they can play it any way they want and they'll still be playing a losing hand. posted 05/10/2008 at 19:45:13
But still, saying that he lost his bearings isn't a direct assault on the age issue, whatever the implied intention might have been. Assuming it was, taking the bait and responding as they have, they have helped paint their candidate as the grumpy old man many see him as.
My guess is that they are going to use this as permission to go after Obama with whatever they've got and not play nice. I think they can play it any way they want and they'll still be playing a losing hand. posted 05/10/2008 at 19:45:13
Spare Me Your Exits Polls
Why is it that black voters only get to make up one demographic, whereas white people get to make up about a dozen?
For a while there, until South Carolina, there were two black demographics, men and women. Back then, Hillary thought she had a shot with black women. But ever since that turned out not to be the case (she did have a chance, till she and Bill started trading black loyalty for white fear), all we hear is that Obama gets 90% of the black vote, as if that's a bad thing.
But the white vote... there's white men, white women, white people of every age sector, every income level and every education level. Obama does pretty well with white men and white women when each is taken as a group. He does very well with young white people and pretty much every age group under 65. He does well with affluent white people and educated white people.
But... he doesn't do all that well (lately) with lower earning, less educated whites, and suddenly, they are the only group that matters.
I would think that appealing to black voters (the disenfranchised) young voters (the idealistic) educated voters (well informed) and affluent voters (people who can afford to be republicans but choose not to) would be pretty impressive, but no, suddenly the one man one vote rule has been thrown out and it's all about the white guy in the coveralls. posted 05/09/2008 at 19:32:01
For a while there, until South Carolina, there were two black demographics, men and women. Back then, Hillary thought she had a shot with black women. But ever since that turned out not to be the case (she did have a chance, till she and Bill started trading black loyalty for white fear), all we hear is that Obama gets 90% of the black vote, as if that's a bad thing.
But the white vote... there's white men, white women, white people of every age sector, every income level and every education level. Obama does pretty well with white men and white women when each is taken as a group. He does very well with young white people and pretty much every age group under 65. He does well with affluent white people and educated white people.
But... he doesn't do all that well (lately) with lower earning, less educated whites, and suddenly, they are the only group that matters.
I would think that appealing to black voters (the disenfranchised) young voters (the idealistic) educated voters (well informed) and affluent voters (people who can afford to be republicans but choose not to) would be pretty impressive, but no, suddenly the one man one vote rule has been thrown out and it's all about the white guy in the coveralls. posted 05/09/2008 at 19:32:01
Edwards On His Candidate: I Already Voted For Him?
He said that he will most likely endorse the person he voted for. He will DEFINITELY endorse the democratic candidate and that will most likely be Obama. So, we know he voted for Obama.
He and Elizabeth have split their ballots and agreed not to disclose. I can understand that. It would also be interesting if they came out together and said she voted for her and he voted for him. posted 05/09/2008 at 11:31:01
He and Elizabeth have split their ballots and agreed not to disclose. I can understand that. It would also be interesting if they came out together and said she voted for her and he voted for him. posted 05/09/2008 at 11:31:01
A Few Words On This Democrats Coming Together Business
If Hillary Clinton cared about the future of the democratic party, here's what she would do.
She would contact Obama privately and offer him this compromise:
"There will be no revote in Michigan and Florida, so our only choice is to count the votes that were cast there and seat the delegates or to risk alienating two important states. How about you let me have those states, let me have every delegate I won, and lets give you the delegates you won and a portion of the uncommitted delegates in Michigan.
"I know you don't think that's a fair compromise, but I'm going to give you something that's worth more to you now than delegates. I'm going to give you credit. You propose the compromise publicly and I'll praise you for your fairness and wisdom.
"I've already proven to Michigan and Florida that I am a champion of their cause, but you have some ground to make up with them. This compromise will give me some delegates that I need and a fighting chance to continue competing, but if it turns out that you're the candidate, it gives you an argument to win back the affection of two important states for the Democratic Party."
I'm dreaming of course, but that's how a candidate who wanted to resolve the issue would handle it. From day one, the Clinton campaign has treated these states like the children in a bitter divorce dispute, and we all know how that works out. posted 05/10/2008 at 20:15:42
She would contact Obama privately and offer him this compromise:
"There will be no revote in Michigan and Florida, so our only choice is to count the votes that were cast there and seat the delegates or to risk alienating two important states. How about you let me have those states, let me have every delegate I won, and lets give you the delegates you won and a portion of the uncommitted delegates in Michigan.
"I know you don't think that's a fair compromise, but I'm going to give you something that's worth more to you now than delegates. I'm going to give you credit. You propose the compromise publicly and I'll praise you for your fairness and wisdom.
"I've already proven to Michigan and Florida that I am a champion of their cause, but you have some ground to make up with them. This compromise will give me some delegates that I need and a fighting chance to continue competing, but if it turns out that you're the candidate, it gives you an argument to win back the affection of two important states for the Democratic Party."
I'm dreaming of course, but that's how a candidate who wanted to resolve the issue would handle it. From day one, the Clinton campaign has treated these states like the children in a bitter divorce dispute, and we all know how that works out. posted 05/10/2008 at 20:15:42
Clinton Supporters Send Last-Ditch Obama Attack Emails To Supers
If you asked me right now would I vote for Hillary if she was the candidate in November, I'd say no. Because I'm angry at her. But I would know that come November, my anger would subside and I'd vote with my head and not with my heart. I'd choose the best remaining candidate because its more important to get somebody in the White House who is dedicated to ending our occupation of Iraq than it is to express my distaste for her tactics.
And my guess is, most of these people will vote for Obama when it comes down to it. So they are just making a childish threat.
As for the ones who will really stay home, or even vote for McCain, all I can say, is they better be doing that because they think McCain will be better for the country. Because if they are denying Obama their vote out of spite, they are putting their own petty greivances above the good of the country.
Putting their personal whims above the good of the country... mmm... wonder where that comes from? posted 05/09/2008 at 19:43:22
And my guess is, most of these people will vote for Obama when it comes down to it. So they are just making a childish threat.
As for the ones who will really stay home, or even vote for McCain, all I can say, is they better be doing that because they think McCain will be better for the country. Because if they are denying Obama their vote out of spite, they are putting their own petty greivances above the good of the country.
Putting their personal whims above the good of the country... mmm... wonder where that comes from? posted 05/09/2008 at 19:43:22
Bill Clinton's Angry Confrontation With Voter (VIDEO)
I'm an Obama supporter, but this lady is wrong. Did they accomplish anything? No. Did they try real hard? Yes. posted 05/09/2008 at 11:17:13
Jayde Nicole: Pictures Of Playboy's Playmate Of The Year
Is it just me or does this girl look like she could be the daughter (or grand-daughter) of Hef's girlfriend from the 70s Barbi Benton? posted 05/09/2008 at 10:17:25
Obama Camp Faces Major Obstacles In Plan To Help Clinton Pay Off Debt
sxm, it sounds like you're talking about Hillary the running mate, not Hillary the financial beneficiary. Obviously if she's the running mate, Obama would feel some obligation toward her financially. Of course that brings up an ugly scenario. Obama offers her the Vice Presidency and she accepts, not because she wants it, but because it will pay off her debt, so now he's got a disgruntled running mate and vice president.
Are Clinton supporters really going to fall in line ONLY if Obama's campaign help's with their candidate's debt? Do people struggling to pay rising gas prices really care that much about Hillary's personal money woes?
I agree we need unity. If Hillary agrees (and wants Obama to consider helping with money) she should act like a team player now. Stay in the race for the remaining contests and even fight hard, but turn off the negativity.
Obama offered Hillary an olive branch with his last speech and she ignored it. How about this for a settlement? Hillary stays in the race for the remaining contests and both candidates agree to spend a reduced amount in each of the six remaining states. They both save money (which only one of them actually has to spend) and we have a civil contest. AND Hillary dials back the white people rhetoric.
Let me see one sign of unity from her and I'll soften on my position. posted 05/09/2008 at 09:58:58
Are Clinton supporters really going to fall in line ONLY if Obama's campaign help's with their candidate's debt? Do people struggling to pay rising gas prices really care that much about Hillary's personal money woes?
I agree we need unity. If Hillary agrees (and wants Obama to consider helping with money) she should act like a team player now. Stay in the race for the remaining contests and even fight hard, but turn off the negativity.
Obama offered Hillary an olive branch with his last speech and she ignored it. How about this for a settlement? Hillary stays in the race for the remaining contests and both candidates agree to spend a reduced amount in each of the six remaining states. They both save money (which only one of them actually has to spend) and we have a civil contest. AND Hillary dials back the white people rhetoric.
Let me see one sign of unity from her and I'll soften on my position. posted 05/09/2008 at 09:58:58
I'm told this is done all the time. But you know what isn't done all the time?
Telling the electorate that the Republican candidate is more qualified and loves his country more than your rival for the nomination.
Fanning the flames of an already racially polorized electorate and alienating a major portion of your party's base just to stay alive in the race.
Flip-flopping three times on how to treat the votes of two states in a manner that turns those voters permanently against your party and its eventual nominee and then offering to pay for their revote with money you don't have and hope to get from your rival.
Since the Clinton's were happy to break all these precedents, let's let break one more and be responsible for their own debts. I find it interesting that the "inexperienced" candidate who had not passed the "commander and chief threshold" and would not be "ready to lead on day one" is the one who managed to run an efficient and fiscally responsible (and winning) campaign.
Many say that Hillary's first run for the Senate deprived Al Gore of resources he could have used in his Presidential bid. Now Hillary wants to drain valuable resources from the Obama campaign to pay off her own debt. Not buying it. posted 05/09/2008 at 09:50:30
Telling the electorate that the Republican candidate is more qualified and loves his country more than your rival for the nomination.
Fanning the flames of an already racially polorized electorate and alienating a major portion of your party's base just to stay alive in the race.
Flip-flopping three times on how to treat the votes of two states in a manner that turns those voters permanently against your party and its eventual nominee and then offering to pay for their revote with money you don't have and hope to get from your rival.
Since the Clinton's were happy to break all these precedents, let's let break one more and be responsible for their own debts. I find it interesting that the "inexperienced" candidate who had not passed the "commander and chief threshold" and would not be "ready to lead on day one" is the one who managed to run an efficient and fiscally responsible (and winning) campaign.
Many say that Hillary's first run for the Senate deprived Al Gore of resources he could have used in his Presidential bid. Now Hillary wants to drain valuable resources from the Obama campaign to pay off her own debt. Not buying it. posted 05/09/2008 at 09:50:30
America's Favorite
She's not running for President. She doesn't have to release them.
But if McCain says one word about Reverend Wright, I want to see her tax returns AND her recipe file. posted 05/09/2008 at 11:20:47
But if McCain says one word about Reverend Wright, I want to see her tax returns AND her recipe file. posted 05/09/2008 at 11:20:47
Matt Cooper Taking Wagers on Clinton's Political Future Ending Permanently
Sen. Obama, as a black man was asked to put up with a lot that a white person wouldn't have had to. Ditto Sen. Clinton as a woman. The difference is that Obama didn't add to Hillary's unfair treatment and never complained about it.
Sen. Obama is a pretty natty dresser. Not much to make fun of there. Sen. Clinton is well dressed to, and my guess is her style choices appeal to many and those who made an issue of them weren't her fans anyway. If some were cruel about her looks, just as many identified with the unfair scrutiny she received.
Chelsea is allowed to work and they're free to deal with any conflicts if and when they arise.
As for picking Obama's marriage apart... come on. Since Bill Clinton's marital infidelities took place in the White House and held the country hostage for a while, that's fair game. posted 05/08/2008 at 20:39:45
Sen. Obama is a pretty natty dresser. Not much to make fun of there. Sen. Clinton is well dressed to, and my guess is her style choices appeal to many and those who made an issue of them weren't her fans anyway. If some were cruel about her looks, just as many identified with the unfair scrutiny she received.
Chelsea is allowed to work and they're free to deal with any conflicts if and when they arise.
As for picking Obama's marriage apart... come on. Since Bill Clinton's marital infidelities took place in the White House and held the country hostage for a while, that's fair game. posted 05/08/2008 at 20:39:45
Obama Vice President Picks: Who Are The Frontrunners?
The most important thing about a veep is not what kind of running mate they will be, it's what kind of veep they will be, and hopefully, what kind of president they will be in 8 years. Republicans have had a number of veeps with questionable Presidential potential... Cheney, Quale, Agnew, but there hasn't been a democratic VP who hasn't run for President since Alben Barkley, and he was denied because he was too old.
Considering the kind of transformative nominee Obama is, he needs somebody he will be comfortable with and somebody consistant with his message. It would be good if the other person had some skills or appeal that complements Obama, but everybody has something and nobody has everything.
If it's not Hillary, a woman is appealing because women have come so close this year. To name a male VP is to tell those women that it will be at least 16 years before there is a female democratic President. If the democrats get 55% of the female vote and 90% of the black vote, who needs white guys?
Of the males, you gotta love Edwards. He's a national figure, he's from the south (a constant of winning democratic teams), and he's very popular with working class people. He's also Presidential and young enough to run in 2016. Clinton, Richardson, Biden, Webb and Rendell are all 60+. But most important, I think ideologically he fits with Obama. posted 05/12/2008 at 04:02:13
Considering the kind of transformative nominee Obama is, he needs somebody he will be comfortable with and somebody consistant with his message. It would be good if the other person had some skills or appeal that complements Obama, but everybody has something and nobody has everything.
If it's not Hillary, a woman is appealing because women have come so close this year. To name a male VP is to tell those women that it will be at least 16 years before there is a female democratic President. If the democrats get 55% of the female vote and 90% of the black vote, who needs white guys?
Of the males, you gotta love Edwards. He's a national figure, he's from the south (a constant of winning democratic teams), and he's very popular with working class people. He's also Presidential and young enough to run in 2016. Clinton, Richardson, Biden, Webb and Rendell are all 60+. But most important, I think ideologically he fits with Obama. posted 05/12/2008 at 04:02:13
Clinton's Open Letter To Obama On MI and FL
If anybody could have resolved this before it became an issue, it's the Clintons. They probably could have stepped in before the races mediated something that would have kept Florida and Michigan in the process. But they didn't. They watched the whole disaster go down and then agreed to the DNC's program.
And then, as soon as she "won" both primaries, she started campaigning for their inclusion. When a revote was suggested, her stance was... why, they've already voted. When the DNC made it clear that the original vote wouldn't count, and that she would need it, she started to advocate for a revote, offering to pay for it with money that her campaign doesn't even have.
Now, whether she knows it or not, it's over and she's lost. It would make a lot of sense for Obama and the party to make nice to Florida and Michigan. But Hillary insists on inserting herself in the process. Trying to resolve it in a way that does nothing for the party or the candidate, but serves her purpose.
How anybody can think she cares about the party or the public good at this point is beyond me. posted 05/08/2008 at 18:31:41
And then, as soon as she "won" both primaries, she started campaigning for their inclusion. When a revote was suggested, her stance was... why, they've already voted. When the DNC made it clear that the original vote wouldn't count, and that she would need it, she started to advocate for a revote, offering to pay for it with money that her campaign doesn't even have.
Now, whether she knows it or not, it's over and she's lost. It would make a lot of sense for Obama and the party to make nice to Florida and Michigan. But Hillary insists on inserting herself in the process. Trying to resolve it in a way that does nothing for the party or the candidate, but serves her purpose.
How anybody can think she cares about the party or the public good at this point is beyond me. posted 05/08/2008 at 18:31:41
Obama Floated Idea Of Voluntarily Capping Donations
As campaigns go, I think that both Obama and McCain have been far cleaner than most as witnessed in the primary process. How about we see how this plays out before we vilify either one? posted 05/08/2008 at 18:46:18
Fuzzy Math Redux
The new number is nearly as impossible as the old one.
Let's say they include Florida and count the votes that were cast in its primary. That gives Hillary a net gain of 38, and reduces Obama's lead to 131 in pledged delegates. In Michigan, Obama wasn't on the but let's give her the 55% she won and leave the others uncommitted. What does that give her? A boost of 70? Obama leads by 61.
There are six contests left, which the two will probably split, but let's assume that inspite of her lack of momentum and the desire of the party to unite, she picks up 11 net delegates there. Obama leads by 50.
Does anybody think that Hillary can pick up a net gain of 50 Superdelegates? Hillary's superdelegate lead has shrunk from 100+ since the primaries started. She didn't gain supers when she had her back to the wall in Iowa, or when she came roaring back in New Hampshire. She didn't pick any up when the two were dead even after Super Tuesday. She didn't gain super support when her pledged delegate count took a battering in February, or made a comeback in March and April. It didn't flock to her side when Bittergate and Rev. Wright took center stage, or when she proposed the Gas Tax Holiday.
Unless we colonize Mars and give them a primary, it's over. He's won. Deal with it. posted 05/08/2008 at 12:22:47
Let's say they include Florida and count the votes that were cast in its primary. That gives Hillary a net gain of 38, and reduces Obama's lead to 131 in pledged delegates. In Michigan, Obama wasn't on the but let's give her the 55% she won and leave the others uncommitted. What does that give her? A boost of 70? Obama leads by 61.
There are six contests left, which the two will probably split, but let's assume that inspite of her lack of momentum and the desire of the party to unite, she picks up 11 net delegates there. Obama leads by 50.
Does anybody think that Hillary can pick up a net gain of 50 Superdelegates? Hillary's superdelegate lead has shrunk from 100+ since the primaries started. She didn't gain supers when she had her back to the wall in Iowa, or when she came roaring back in New Hampshire. She didn't pick any up when the two were dead even after Super Tuesday. She didn't gain super support when her pledged delegate count took a battering in February, or made a comeback in March and April. It didn't flock to her side when Bittergate and Rev. Wright took center stage, or when she proposed the Gas Tax Holiday.
Unless we colonize Mars and give them a primary, it's over. He's won. Deal with it. posted 05/08/2008 at 12:22:47
Clinton Camp Stoops To Language Games And Overt Race Strategizing
At this point, Obama can give in on every one of her Florida and Michigan demands and still win. But if she really cared about the party, she would step back and let him make the gesture since he's the one who will need those states in November.
He should give in to her on Florida and Michigan but nothing else. No VP job. No support for a run at Majority Leader. And not a dime of help in paying off her campaign debt. She played hard. Now it's time to lose hard. posted 05/08/2008 at 18:25:46
He should give in to her on Florida and Michigan but nothing else. No VP job. No support for a run at Majority Leader. And not a dime of help in paying off her campaign debt. She played hard. Now it's time to lose hard. posted 05/08/2008 at 18:25:46
Big Rewards Await Clinton If She Ends Campaign Now
I guess paying back the debt is a common thing, but I hope it comes with a proviso, that she's on the hook for any money spent from this day forth.
And comparing a bow out to Al Gore in 2000 is a bad move. Most people deeply regret that bow-out now. This is different. Yes Florida is in dispute, but he's got the nomination with or without Florida. posted 05/07/2008 at 18:26:38
And comparing a bow out to Al Gore in 2000 is a bad move. Most people deeply regret that bow-out now. This is different. Yes Florida is in dispute, but he's got the nomination with or without Florida. posted 05/07/2008 at 18:26:38
Another "The Hillary I Know"
Obama took the high road on Tuesday. He congratulated her on winning Indiana (long before it was clear that she had) and praised her for her efforts in North Carolina (though we know he personally must have despised her tactics). He referred to the eventual candidate without assuming it would be him and pledged unity no matter who it might be.
The message to me was clear. We're so close to the end that Hillary may want to stick it out so everybody votes and Obama was going to be gracious enough to let her go out on her own terms with dignity.
Then Hillary spit in his face. Her speech claiming some kind of real victory based on Obama's "tie-breaker" quote was silly and small. She made it clear that she would not only continue running. but that whe would continue to use the same take-no-prisoners, party-unity-be-damned approach.
And then today, all these references to white voters.
I'm sorry Hilary, but the Hillary you and so many claim to know seems to have left the building. She's turning what could have been the greatest moment in the history of our democracy into something quite a bit uglier.
It's a shame. posted 05/08/2008 at 18:39:46
The message to me was clear. We're so close to the end that Hillary may want to stick it out so everybody votes and Obama was going to be gracious enough to let her go out on her own terms with dignity.
Then Hillary spit in his face. Her speech claiming some kind of real victory based on Obama's "tie-breaker" quote was silly and small. She made it clear that she would not only continue running. but that whe would continue to use the same take-no-prisoners, party-unity-be-damned approach.
And then today, all these references to white voters.
I'm sorry Hilary, but the Hillary you and so many claim to know seems to have left the building. She's turning what could have been the greatest moment in the history of our democracy into something quite a bit uglier.
It's a shame. posted 05/08/2008 at 18:39:46
Hillary Will Drop Out by June 15
This would be fine if "making her case" didn't mean saying anything she can think of to weaken Obama's case going foreward.
So she is planning on doing that through all the primaries and for a weak longer, and this according to an aid who is probably just hoping to talk sense into her.
This isn't good news. This is the grown ups letting the child throw her tantrum and hoping she's tuckered out before company arrives. posted 05/07/2008 at 17:10:12
So she is planning on doing that through all the primaries and for a weak longer, and this according to an aid who is probably just hoping to talk sense into her.
This isn't good news. This is the grown ups letting the child throw her tantrum and hoping she's tuckered out before company arrives. posted 05/07/2008 at 17:10:12
George McGovern Switches To Obama, Urges Clinton To Drop Out
Just what America needs, a leader who won't speak his mind because he disagees with his wife.
I hope that's not the reason he stayed neutral. And if that is, it's a good thing he didn't get the nomination. Health Care Reform as the pet project of a first lady do not have a good track record. posted 05/07/2008 at 12:08:32
I hope that's not the reason he stayed neutral. And if that is, it's a good thing he didn't get the nomination. Health Care Reform as the pet project of a first lady do not have a good track record. posted 05/07/2008 at 12:08:32
You don't think Ed Rendell is going to back Obama against McCain? Of course he will. He's a democrat. posted 05/07/2008 at 12:06:23
We know how conventions work and we also know how to read. Back in January, Hillary had a 100+ Superdelegate lead. Now they are nearly even. Through ALL of this, good and bad, the supers have gravitated toward Obama.
The Superdelegates aren't going to save Hillary, what they are going to do is bury her last hopes.
It's over. Get used to it. posted 05/07/2008 at 12:05:13
The Superdelegates aren't going to save Hillary, what they are going to do is bury her last hopes.
It's over. Get used to it. posted 05/07/2008 at 12:05:13
As a black candidate who has tried to transcend race, nothing they could hit Obama with could be as damaging as Reverend Wright. They hit him with it, the right was relentless, Hillary piled on as well, and then Wright himself played into it... and still, not only couldn't Hillary close the deal, but Obama had a good night.
There's nothing that can hurt him more than this did and he survived. His lack of experience hasn't caused him to vote wrong on Iraq or Iran or to back a silly gas tax holiday. What good is experience if it doesn't breed wisdom.
Give it up for the guy. He's Presidential and he's going to be the President. posted 05/07/2008 at 12:03:29
There's nothing that can hurt him more than this did and he survived. His lack of experience hasn't caused him to vote wrong on Iraq or Iran or to back a silly gas tax holiday. What good is experience if it doesn't breed wisdom.
Give it up for the guy. He's Presidential and he's going to be the President. posted 05/07/2008 at 12:03:29
Yes, this is what we need. Not Obama surrogates calling for her to step down. Obama wisely made it clear last night that Hillary will stay in the race as long as she wants.
But if respected Democratic leaders, some of whom favored Hillary, start to say, respectfully that she fought a good fight but it's over, maybe the wisdom will be undeniable.
Nice move George! posted 05/07/2008 at 11:54:12
But if respected Democratic leaders, some of whom favored Hillary, start to say, respectfully that she fought a good fight but it's over, maybe the wisdom will be undeniable.
Nice move George! posted 05/07/2008 at 11:54:12
Do they allow wagering on this site. WOuld love to make a side bet with Mr. Slagle on this. posted 05/07/2008 at 11:52:12
Hillary Clinton's Campaign Strategy: Are Harsh Attacks Over
Why is it that nobody brings up the one truly unique thing about Obama: How thoroughly gracious he has been through this entire campaign.
He has had good days and bad at the polls and in the press and has dealt with each like a gentleman.
When he loses, he congratulates his opponent for her victory. When he wins, he congratulates her for a well fought campaign (even if it had been malicious).
When he is asked silly questions in a debate and Hillary piles on, he mentions that there are more important issues, but still addresses the question with respect. When the tables are turnedy, and Bosnia is brought up, Obama takes the high road and treats her as he deserves to be treated.
And in spite of all she has said and implied about him, he has never "gone there" about about Bill's behavior in the White House.
Last night, after the most negative and divisive month in the campaign, when voters resoundingly showed that they still stood behind Obama, not only did he not assume victory, but he offered a perfect opportunity for Clinton herself to step out graciously.
Instead, she claimed victory from a narrow margin, based on some silly quote that Obama made about Indiana being a tie-breaker.
Obama's behavior is so unusual in the political arena and nobody mentions it, other than to say he's not tough enough. Grace under fire. What can be tougher than that? posted 05/07/2008 at 10:38:28
He has had good days and bad at the polls and in the press and has dealt with each like a gentleman.
When he loses, he congratulates his opponent for her victory. When he wins, he congratulates her for a well fought campaign (even if it had been malicious).
When he is asked silly questions in a debate and Hillary piles on, he mentions that there are more important issues, but still addresses the question with respect. When the tables are turnedy, and Bosnia is brought up, Obama takes the high road and treats her as he deserves to be treated.
And in spite of all she has said and implied about him, he has never "gone there" about about Bill's behavior in the White House.
Last night, after the most negative and divisive month in the campaign, when voters resoundingly showed that they still stood behind Obama, not only did he not assume victory, but he offered a perfect opportunity for Clinton herself to step out graciously.
Instead, she claimed victory from a narrow margin, based on some silly quote that Obama made about Indiana being a tie-breaker.
Obama's behavior is so unusual in the political arena and nobody mentions it, other than to say he's not tough enough. Grace under fire. What can be tougher than that? posted 05/07/2008 at 10:38:28
Yes, those groups and the 170+ pledged delegate lead Obama has amassed. posted 05/07/2008 at 10:23:08
Clinton Camp To Step Up Efforts To Count Michigan, Florida
Do the math. Even with Florida and Michigan she doesn't win. As long as she stays in, the dems can't reconcile with those two states without taking sides. As soon as she steps down, the healing can begin. posted 05/07/2008 at 17:33:22
Florida and Michigan... Florida and Michigan...
When will somebody state the obvious, that even if we let Florida and Michigan stand and Hillary gained 100 delegates from them (she won't) Obama would still have a 70 delegate lead and all the Superdelegate momentum has been moving his way since January.
The sooner Hillary agrees to step down, the sooner the Dems can try and clean up the mess with Florida and Michigan and get them in the fold for November. posted 05/07/2008 at 12:12:22
When will somebody state the obvious, that even if we let Florida and Michigan stand and Hillary gained 100 delegates from them (she won't) Obama would still have a 70 delegate lead and all the Superdelegate momentum has been moving his way since January.
The sooner Hillary agrees to step down, the sooner the Dems can try and clean up the mess with Florida and Michigan and get them in the fold for November. posted 05/07/2008 at 12:12:22
Why Couldn't Hillary Close the Deal?
Because Americans are not fools. The majority of us know the difference between being pandered to and being helped. And we know the difference between a real issue and a talking point. posted 05/07/2008 at 02:24:44
McCain's Rough Night Overshadowed By Clinton's
Any democrat who thinks electability is the main issue is off the mark. Once the dems stop fighting each other and focus on the "real opponent" this race will be easy. posted 05/07/2008 at 10:06:45
Obama victory racially lopsided in NC
White voters outnumbered black voters in North Carolina 2-1. Obama won by 14%, a bigger percentage than Clinton did in Pennsylvania, a state pretty much designed for her.
Meanwhile, six hours after the close of polls, Indiana, with an overhwelmingly white population is too close to call.
This on a night when Hillary HAD to win big.
This after the worst month in Obama's campaign.
This after a month of racial polarization.
Wake up, white people (and yes I am white). Obama is the nominee. posted 05/06/2008 at 23:41:57
Meanwhile, six hours after the close of polls, Indiana, with an overhwelmingly white population is too close to call.
This on a night when Hillary HAD to win big.
This after the worst month in Obama's campaign.
This after a month of racial polarization.
Wake up, white people (and yes I am white). Obama is the nominee. posted 05/06/2008 at 23:41:57
Exit Polls: Limbaugh Effect Seems To Rear Its Head
Open primaries invite this sort of action, especially when one race is already determined. You can decry it all you want, but if the democratic nominee was already determined and there was a race on the other side between two candidates, one of which seemed beatable, wouldn't you feel tempted?
What's interesting too are the results on the republican side. Over 20% of those voters felt motivated to go to the polls and register their disappointment with their candidate. In spite of his moves to the right, some probably don't feel he's moved far enough and voted for Romney, some probably feel he doesn't have the right values and voted for Huckabee and a significant amount rejected him completely and voted for Paul. I wonder how many of these will actually vote in November, or will vote for some other candidate.
But getting back to the Limbaughs. Considering that Hillary was hanging by a thread going into the night, considering that she had an awful night and just managed to eek out a victory in Indiana, and considering that she may have owed that victory to prank voters... her staying in the race isn't tough it's stupid.
I wouldn't mind her sticking around to let the rest of the country vote, but if she continues to campaign in a potentially damaging way, I will consider donating money to anybody who wants to run against her for the Senate. posted 05/07/2008 at 10:04:16
What's interesting too are the results on the republican side. Over 20% of those voters felt motivated to go to the polls and register their disappointment with their candidate. In spite of his moves to the right, some probably don't feel he's moved far enough and voted for Romney, some probably feel he doesn't have the right values and voted for Huckabee and a significant amount rejected him completely and voted for Paul. I wonder how many of these will actually vote in November, or will vote for some other candidate.
But getting back to the Limbaughs. Considering that Hillary was hanging by a thread going into the night, considering that she had an awful night and just managed to eek out a victory in Indiana, and considering that she may have owed that victory to prank voters... her staying in the race isn't tough it's stupid.
I wouldn't mind her sticking around to let the rest of the country vote, but if she continues to campaign in a potentially damaging way, I will consider donating money to anybody who wants to run against her for the Senate. posted 05/07/2008 at 10:04:16
How to Lose an Election 101
First of all Ms. Goff, the dems are going to win. This isn't McGovern, Mondale, Dukakis or Kerry they're running. It's Barack Obama and he's going to win. By a lot.
As for the things that aren't making it easy for him/them, I will agree with you on Dean, Florida/Mighigan (actually Dean's main gaffe was the mishandling of those two states), Marc Penn, Bill Clinton, Rev. Wright and Bittergate. The rest not so much.
I can't hold Hillary blameless here. She's the candidate, not Bill or Penn and she has chosen to run the kind of campaign she has. Which is why she is not getting the nomination and why she is hurting Obama in the general.
But make no mistakes about it. Barack Obama is the next President. posted 05/07/2008 at 02:23:08
As for the things that aren't making it easy for him/them, I will agree with you on Dean, Florida/Mighigan (actually Dean's main gaffe was the mishandling of those two states), Marc Penn, Bill Clinton, Rev. Wright and Bittergate. The rest not so much.
I can't hold Hillary blameless here. She's the candidate, not Bill or Penn and she has chosen to run the kind of campaign she has. Which is why she is not getting the nomination and why she is hurting Obama in the general.
But make no mistakes about it. Barack Obama is the next President. posted 05/07/2008 at 02:23:08
Penn Jillette Makes Hillary "White B*tch" Joke On MSNBC, Joe & Mika Condemn Him
Is there really a double standard?
If you're a mean tough man, you're a bastard... if you're a mean tough woman you're a bitch.
I've been hearing this "if you're a man" argument for years, and yet here, in this election, when Hillary shed a tear in New Hampshire and people thought it would make her seem too weak, it actually revived her campaign.
And since then, when she's been tough as nails, that seems to have worked for her too.
Good for her that these tactics work, but can we please stop hearing that woman can't be this or that without being judged.
On the other hand, Obama gets criticized for being so cool and free-of-anger. They say he's not tough. But he's a black man. If he came on too tough, he'd look like a bully and he'd scare people.
I think the problem is that people don't know what tough really is. They think it's big blustery words. Righteous indignation. Wrattling your sabre, even though the sabre you're rattling is actually the lives of other people who do your fighting for you.
Being honest when it's not popular... that's my idea of being tough. posted 05/06/2008 at 15:19:51
If you're a mean tough man, you're a bastard... if you're a mean tough woman you're a bitch.
I've been hearing this "if you're a man" argument for years, and yet here, in this election, when Hillary shed a tear in New Hampshire and people thought it would make her seem too weak, it actually revived her campaign.
And since then, when she's been tough as nails, that seems to have worked for her too.
Good for her that these tactics work, but can we please stop hearing that woman can't be this or that without being judged.
On the other hand, Obama gets criticized for being so cool and free-of-anger. They say he's not tough. But he's a black man. If he came on too tough, he'd look like a bully and he'd scare people.
I think the problem is that people don't know what tough really is. They think it's big blustery words. Righteous indignation. Wrattling your sabre, even though the sabre you're rattling is actually the lives of other people who do your fighting for you.
Being honest when it's not popular... that's my idea of being tough. posted 05/06/2008 at 15:19:51
Will Hillary Repeal the Clinton Gas Tax?
Well if you're against the repeal of the gas tax now, then that means that the Clinton nickel was a good idea, which it was and still is. Too bad Bill Clinton circa 1992 isn't running. posted 05/05/2008 at 22:14:57
Open Letter to Michael Moore
Obama has really been gracious in his treatment of the Clintons on so many levels. Not only have none of his close surrogates talked about Bill's White House History, but at the PA debate where Hillary was piling on mercilessly, he passed on the opportunity to stick her for lying about Bosnia. He treated her as he wished to be treated rather than how he was being treated.
I wonder if his decency means that we, as his supporters need to do the dirty work, or if we should follow his example. I find myself asking WWOD (what would Obama do) when answering unfair attacks. Invariably it's not what my first instinct to do would be, but that's what leaders are for, right? posted 05/05/2008 at 22:37:59
I wonder if his decency means that we, as his supporters need to do the dirty work, or if we should follow his example. I find myself asking WWOD (what would Obama do) when answering unfair attacks. Invariably it's not what my first instinct to do would be, but that's what leaders are for, right? posted 05/05/2008 at 22:37:59
Dead Kentucky Derby Filly the Elephant in the Room
When an earthquake interrupted the World Series, TV covered the earthquakes, because Earthquakes affect all of us. But when a fan dies of a heart attack in the stands (it happens) it is downplayed, because it isn't news we need, it's somebody's private tragedy intersecting with a news story.
And when a member of a football team is taken off the field on a stretcher, not that much time is spent analyzing his injurty, just its impact on the game.
This is a little different because it was a participant in the event who was hurt and died, but still, there is little to say beyond the fact that the horse was hurt and euthanized. If you watch horse racing and follow it, you've seen these stories before. If you're very interested, you can read the news tomorrow or go on line today.
But really what is to be gained by dwelling on this sad event. Nobody wants to or needs to see the moment of injury. Nobody wants to or needs to see the horse in pain, or his jockey, trainer or owner grieving. And in these cases, there is usually no blame to be assigned and even if there was, who is qualified to assign it. What are you going to do with these details that would require NBC to pre-empt the rest of the event to provide them. It is a private moment for the horse and the people who loved them. posted 05/04/2008 at 18:55:37
And when a member of a football team is taken off the field on a stretcher, not that much time is spent analyzing his injurty, just its impact on the game.
This is a little different because it was a participant in the event who was hurt and died, but still, there is little to say beyond the fact that the horse was hurt and euthanized. If you watch horse racing and follow it, you've seen these stories before. If you're very interested, you can read the news tomorrow or go on line today.
But really what is to be gained by dwelling on this sad event. Nobody wants to or needs to see the moment of injury. Nobody wants to or needs to see the horse in pain, or his jockey, trainer or owner grieving. And in these cases, there is usually no blame to be assigned and even if there was, who is qualified to assign it. What are you going to do with these details that would require NBC to pre-empt the rest of the event to provide them. It is a private moment for the horse and the people who loved them. posted 05/04/2008 at 18:55:37
Carville: If Hillary Gave Obama "One Of Her Cojones, They'd Both Have Two"
What does it take for a black man, with a name that can easily allow people to assume he's a muslim, to decide to make a legitimate run for president, against one of the most powerful families and organizations in politics, basing his strategy on small internet donors out funding, old school politicos, and young and first time voters flooding the polls to secure his victory.
Now that it's a done deal, you can say it took vision. But when Obama first hatched this plan, it took one monumental pair of cojones.
And what does it take to stand your ground, to stick to your principals, to keep it positive even as you are being bombarded with every form of negative campaigning and misinformation?
I'd mark that one down to cojones too. posted 05/10/2008 at 20:04:51
Now that it's a done deal, you can say it took vision. But when Obama first hatched this plan, it took one monumental pair of cojones.
And what does it take to stand your ground, to stick to your principals, to keep it positive even as you are being bombarded with every form of negative campaigning and misinformation?
I'd mark that one down to cojones too. posted 05/10/2008 at 20:04:51
Wow, for a Hillary supporter, he seems pretty familiar with the price of elitist coffee.
Carville has got his terminology a little mixed up. Risking the future of the Democratic party, playing fast and loose with the truth (and not expecting to get caught at it)... those things take gaul... not balls.
On the other hand, not following along with the silly "gas tax holiday" when it would probably win you a few of those coveted blue collar votes, that takes true cojones.
Voting for a war you probably don't believe in just to show the world you're tough doesn't take balls.
Refusing to take the easy way out of a tough situation, and making a speech about a forbidden topic (race) in the middle of a tight race, that takes integrity, which in my mind is the ballsiest thing a politician can dare to have.
The problem with Carville is that like the republicans now in power, he has confused acting tough with being tough. Standing by your principles, running an honorable campaign, being willing to risk losing in order to win for the right reasons, that is true courage. posted 05/04/2008 at 23:48:32
Carville has got his terminology a little mixed up. Risking the future of the Democratic party, playing fast and loose with the truth (and not expecting to get caught at it)... those things take gaul... not balls.
On the other hand, not following along with the silly "gas tax holiday" when it would probably win you a few of those coveted blue collar votes, that takes true cojones.
Voting for a war you probably don't believe in just to show the world you're tough doesn't take balls.
Refusing to take the easy way out of a tough situation, and making a speech about a forbidden topic (race) in the middle of a tight race, that takes integrity, which in my mind is the ballsiest thing a politician can dare to have.
The problem with Carville is that like the republicans now in power, he has confused acting tough with being tough. Standing by your principles, running an honorable campaign, being willing to risk losing in order to win for the right reasons, that is true courage. posted 05/04/2008 at 23:48:32
Are You Taking Notes Now, George?
I'm an Obama fan and I hated the ABC debate and particularly George's questions, but...
I thought he did well today. It's true he didn't skewer here on personal stuff, but we Obamites have to ask, what would Barack do. In the debate, after getting bludgeoned with Wright and Flag Pin questions, Barack had the chance to score points on the Bosnia story and he took the high road.
Without focusing on personal trivia and old history, George did a credible job this morning of asking Hillary serious questions and giving tough follow-ups. I thought he did a good job. posted 05/04/2008 at 18:45:54
I thought he did well today. It's true he didn't skewer here on personal stuff, but we Obamites have to ask, what would Barack do. In the debate, after getting bludgeoned with Wright and Flag Pin questions, Barack had the chance to score points on the Bosnia story and he took the high road.
Without focusing on personal trivia and old history, George did a credible job this morning of asking Hillary serious questions and giving tough follow-ups. I thought he did a good job. posted 05/04/2008 at 18:45:54
Operation Anti-Chaos: The Narrative on "White Voters" Is Fiction
The coverage of voting demographics in this election is very disturbing.
Pundits treat Clinton winning the white blue-collar vote by a margin of 72-28 as a bad thing for Obama and they treat his winning the black vote with over 90% also as a bad thing for him.
They also site that the fact that 20% of white voters surveyed in exit poles admitted that race played a role in their voting bodes badly for Obama's electability, but fail to say that if we eliminate those 20% as people who wouldn't vote for a black man NO MATTER WHAT, Obama lost the white vote blue collar vote by a smaller margin. If we can assume that for every voter who admitted to that thinking there was probably another one who thought that way but didn't admit it, we realize that of white voters who entered the decision based on factors other than race, Hillary and Barack ran about even.
There is also a tendency to say that Obama has a problem with blue-collar voters (and not specifically white blue collar voters) as if all blue-collar people see him as an elitist. Black blue collar voters make up a significant block and he clearly does well with those voters, but they are dismissed as identity voters.
By using shorthand, oversimplifying and ignoring the complexities in reading into the votes of hundreds of thousands of voters, the media does a disservice to those voters and the candidates. posted 05/03/2008 at 15:56:11
Pundits treat Clinton winning the white blue-collar vote by a margin of 72-28 as a bad thing for Obama and they treat his winning the black vote with over 90% also as a bad thing for him.
They also site that the fact that 20% of white voters surveyed in exit poles admitted that race played a role in their voting bodes badly for Obama's electability, but fail to say that if we eliminate those 20% as people who wouldn't vote for a black man NO MATTER WHAT, Obama lost the white vote blue collar vote by a smaller margin. If we can assume that for every voter who admitted to that thinking there was probably another one who thought that way but didn't admit it, we realize that of white voters who entered the decision based on factors other than race, Hillary and Barack ran about even.
There is also a tendency to say that Obama has a problem with blue-collar voters (and not specifically white blue collar voters) as if all blue-collar people see him as an elitist. Black blue collar voters make up a significant block and he clearly does well with those voters, but they are dismissed as identity voters.
By using shorthand, oversimplifying and ignoring the complexities in reading into the votes of hundreds of thousands of voters, the media does a disservice to those voters and the candidates. posted 05/03/2008 at 15:56:11
A Point of Clarification
Hillary has also participated in at least two of the most important moments in American history.
One of course, was the Iraq vote. We know how that went.
The other was this election, when she not only squandered a double-digit lead to put herself hopelessly behind, primarily due to bad planning. She was dead even after Super Tuesday, but having arrogantly assumed she'd have it locked up by then, she ignored the post Super Tuesday states and allowed Obama to build an unsurmountable lead.
But beyond that, she took something that might have been one of the greatest moments in our history... the nation's electorate coming together to support two unprecedented candidates... and she turned it into a childish game of "gotcha" negative politics.
Oh, what this might have been had she kept it positive.
Oh-for-two. I'm with Obama. posted 05/03/2008 at 11:11:23
One of course, was the Iraq vote. We know how that went.
The other was this election, when she not only squandered a double-digit lead to put herself hopelessly behind, primarily due to bad planning. She was dead even after Super Tuesday, but having arrogantly assumed she'd have it locked up by then, she ignored the post Super Tuesday states and allowed Obama to build an unsurmountable lead.
But beyond that, she took something that might have been one of the greatest moments in our history... the nation's electorate coming together to support two unprecedented candidates... and she turned it into a childish game of "gotcha" negative politics.
Oh, what this might have been had she kept it positive.
Oh-for-two. I'm with Obama. posted 05/03/2008 at 11:11:23
You're not supportingObama because he's got a few jerks supporting him? Millions of voters love Obama. Out of millions, there are going to be some jerks. Is that really why you are withholding your support? posted 05/03/2008 at 11:04:35
With all do respect, Ms. Bacon-Smith, aren't you practicing the same guilt-by-association here that has been practiced against Ms. Louis-Dreyfuss' and your (and my) candidate.
She made the PSA. Infer from it what you will, but she has told us sincerely what her purpose was. She has made it clear that she is not only apalled by what some members of the organization are doing, but that she in fact supports the candidate whom it was saught to suppress.
Do you really think a PSA by a TV star urging people to vote (for whomever they choose) has the potential to be a destructive weapon.
If she chooses to do more, great. If not, that's okay too. posted 05/03/2008 at 10:59:26
She made the PSA. Infer from it what you will, but she has told us sincerely what her purpose was. She has made it clear that she is not only apalled by what some members of the organization are doing, but that she in fact supports the candidate whom it was saught to suppress.
Do you really think a PSA by a TV star urging people to vote (for whomever they choose) has the potential to be a destructive weapon.
If she chooses to do more, great. If not, that's okay too. posted 05/03/2008 at 10:59:26
Hillary's Psychic Reality
Three very bizarre things happened in the Penn debate.
The first was Hillary's answer to that question. Having exhausted all the plausable explanations (being tired, misunderstanding the warnings of sniper fire by security people, etc.) she chose to blithely admit to lying without using that word. She admitted to saying something while she knew it knew it not to be true.
The second was Barack Obama's response. After being barraged with negative questions about his own campaign, and after having Hillary pile on with the questioners, the door was open for Obama to point out that Hillary lying is a bigger deal than Obama having an angry pastor. Instead, he chose, perhaps too magnanimously, to treat Hillary in the way he would prefer to be treated, but letting the event speak for itself, but giving her the benefit of the doubt and by not attempting to make political hay out of it.
Perhaps he hoped that Hillary, George and Charles would take his cue and bring the conversation to a more civil level. Perhaps he thought the audience would draw their own conclusions and also take note of what a decent, thoughtful guy he was.
The third bizarre thing: none of the above happened. Nobody seemed to notice his magnanimous gesture. George went on to question Obama about Rev. Wright's patriotism, and Hillary continued to pile on.
How Americans vote this election will reflect what we truly value. For better or worse, we'll get the President we deserve. posted 05/03/2008 at 13:16:32
The first was Hillary's answer to that question. Having exhausted all the plausable explanations (being tired, misunderstanding the warnings of sniper fire by security people, etc.) she chose to blithely admit to lying without using that word. She admitted to saying something while she knew it knew it not to be true.
The second was Barack Obama's response. After being barraged with negative questions about his own campaign, and after having Hillary pile on with the questioners, the door was open for Obama to point out that Hillary lying is a bigger deal than Obama having an angry pastor. Instead, he chose, perhaps too magnanimously, to treat Hillary in the way he would prefer to be treated, but letting the event speak for itself, but giving her the benefit of the doubt and by not attempting to make political hay out of it.
Perhaps he hoped that Hillary, George and Charles would take his cue and bring the conversation to a more civil level. Perhaps he thought the audience would draw their own conclusions and also take note of what a decent, thoughtful guy he was.
The third bizarre thing: none of the above happened. Nobody seemed to notice his magnanimous gesture. George went on to question Obama about Rev. Wright's patriotism, and Hillary continued to pile on.
How Americans vote this election will reflect what we truly value. For better or worse, we'll get the President we deserve. posted 05/03/2008 at 13:16:32
The Gore Factor
What a great idea!!!
After nearly three months of this crazy system where only women or african-americans seem capable of getting enough support to win the democratic nomination for President, let's try something different for a change... a white guy! Do you realize that the Democrats haven't nominated a white male for president in nearly four years? And that in the nearly 200 years of the the democratic party, only about 30 white males have been nominated for President. Nearly half of them have won, and yet the party insists on nominating, at most, one token white male every four years. And now, white males have become so disenfranchised, that this year, it appears that party is even going to forego that small acknowledgement.
And why? Just because a couple of members of the power elite, the women and African Americans who run the country, have managed to raise more money and draw more voters to the poles than any candidates in history.
Enough with this bigotry. We've tried letting women and blacks lead the Presidential race for over a year now and yet we're still in Iraq and the economy stinks. Let's give a white guy a shot at it now. posted 05/03/2008 at 13:01:12
After nearly three months of this crazy system where only women or african-americans seem capable of getting enough support to win the democratic nomination for President, let's try something different for a change... a white guy! Do you realize that the Democrats haven't nominated a white male for president in nearly four years? And that in the nearly 200 years of the the democratic party, only about 30 white males have been nominated for President. Nearly half of them have won, and yet the party insists on nominating, at most, one token white male every four years. And now, white males have become so disenfranchised, that this year, it appears that party is even going to forego that small acknowledgement.
And why? Just because a couple of members of the power elite, the women and African Americans who run the country, have managed to raise more money and draw more voters to the poles than any candidates in history.
Enough with this bigotry. We've tried letting women and blacks lead the Presidential race for over a year now and yet we're still in Iraq and the economy stinks. Let's give a white guy a shot at it now. posted 05/03/2008 at 13:01:12
McCain Implies Iraq War Is For Oil: Watch Video
This is priceless. He doesn't want us to be fighting in Iraq for 100 years, just hanging out there, kind of like we've been hanging out for the last five years, since "mission accomplished." The dictator we didn't like has been captured, tried and hanged, the weapons of mass destruction we feared don't really exist, and gas is at record prices. But we should stay there another 95 years, continue to lose 100 lives a month and spend 10 billion per month and lower both income taxes on the rich and gas taxes so we can be "not dependent" on China too.
And this is the guy who is going to sell himself as the National Security President.
Not only do I have no doubt that Obama can whip this guy in November, if he keeps talking like this, I'd put him at even money against Jeremiah Wright. posted 05/04/2008 at 01:39:45
And this is the guy who is going to sell himself as the National Security President.
Not only do I have no doubt that Obama can whip this guy in November, if he keeps talking like this, I'd put him at even money against Jeremiah Wright. posted 05/04/2008 at 01:39:45
Mr. Obama Goes to Washington
Oh yeah, patriotism... that hot button issue. Why it's almost as important as gay marriage.
How about if just does what he's been doing. It's working pretty well. If he's dipping, it's because he is going through a rough patch. Still and all, he's the presumptive favorite to be the next president. So maybe instead of mouthing empty insincere platitudes, he can just show his love of country the way he has been doing it... by speaking to us like adults, by being honest and by not insulting our intelligence. posted 05/02/2008 at 15:00:19
How about if just does what he's been doing. It's working pretty well. If he's dipping, it's because he is going through a rough patch. Still and all, he's the presumptive favorite to be the next president. So maybe instead of mouthing empty insincere platitudes, he can just show his love of country the way he has been doing it... by speaking to us like adults, by being honest and by not insulting our intelligence. posted 05/02/2008 at 15:00:19
Of course it's not an option, but whether he opts it or not, he might lose in Indiana, but if he does, he's still got the nomination. posted 05/02/2008 at 14:56:53
He doesn't? That's a secret to me. Define loving your country. What has Hillary done to prove that her love of the country greater than Obama's? posted 05/02/2008 at 14:55:10
Jose Canseco Loses Home To Foreclosure
He doesn't seem to be asking for sympathy, and in the midst of what is probably a difficult time, he seems to be aware of the fact that his situation isn't as bad as that of most Americans in trouble.
I've met Canseco a few times and in spite of whatever his reputation may be, he's a decent guy, very down to earth. posted 05/02/2008 at 13:24:18
I've met Canseco a few times and in spite of whatever his reputation may be, he's a decent guy, very down to earth. posted 05/02/2008 at 13:24:18
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I haven't read anything from Hillary on this. To me, there was nothing more important for a loyal democrat to do than to speak on this intelligently and forcefully. posted 05/17/2008 at 23:47:25