May 18, 2008
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TonalCrow
Recent comments by this user
John Edwards Endorses Obama... GOP Prospects "Worst Since Watergate"
No doubt they are, as are most flags. posted 05/14/2008 at 16:43:41
Clinton's West Virginia Victory Does Little To Slow Obama
I think you meant to write "she could win the Presidency for John McCain in the general election." posted 05/14/2008 at 16:40:13
Quote:
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Don't make it look like those were Obama's words.
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Quite. My biggest gripe with HuffPo is that it seems to take pride in misleading headlines. posted 05/14/2008 at 16:29:11
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Don't make it look like those were Obama's words.
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Quite. My biggest gripe with HuffPo is that it seems to take pride in misleading headlines. posted 05/14/2008 at 16:29:11
So? Obama won, e.g., Illinois by 650,000 votes, which is more than all the Democratic votes for BOTH candidates in a much-longer list of states. It's also the largest vote margin so far by over 228,000 votes.
It's easy to play the metrics game when you get to choose the metrics. But the only metric that really matters is delegates, and Obama is beating Clinton handsomely there, in both the pledged and the super- variety. posted 05/14/2008 at 16:26:36
It's easy to play the metrics game when you get to choose the metrics. But the only metric that really matters is delegates, and Obama is beating Clinton handsomely there, in both the pledged and the super- variety. posted 05/14/2008 at 16:26:36
Whatever. Hillary is welcome to keep running until the primaries are complete -- as long as she refrains from disparaging Obama or promoting McCain. posted 05/14/2008 at 16:13:14
The Bipartisanship Scam
As Grover Norquist is credited with saying, "Bipartisanship is another term for date rape". Democrats would do well to make that their mantra, lest they suffer a relapse of Liebermanitis. posted 05/12/2008 at 16:20:48
Bob Barr Announces Bid For Libertarian Nomination
This news is very good for Obama. McCain stood to gain many of Ron Paul's voters by default until Barr gave them a new home. Also, Barr will give Obama cover to press some of the more civil-libertarian positions that (I hope) he holds. posted 05/12/2008 at 15:33:14
New Group With Clinton Ties Pushes A 'Dream Ticket'
Yawn. This is a "dream" for Clinton and the GOP, and a nightmare for most of the rest of us. posted 05/11/2008 at 19:50:44
Bill Kristol Predicts Obama Veep As...Dick Gephardt?
No. They are under "T" for "traitor". posted 05/11/2008 at 19:44:59
Hillary has shown a distinct tendency to abuse power, and thus should never get anywhere near lifetime tenure, let along lifetime tenure on the Supreme Court. posted 05/11/2008 at 19:42:22
For Kristol, and perhaps even for the Times, which gave the Right a sop who's ineffective because he's such an obvious troll. Brooks is much more dangerous. posted 05/11/2008 at 19:38:49
Kristol (who has spent much print elevating Hillary and disparaging Obama) is trolling once again. Many of us remember Dick "Suicide Belt" Gephardt's little deal that helped sabotage Dean's primary bid, thereby sealing a 2nd term for Bush. We are not ready to forgive that or any other DLC treason. posted 05/11/2008 at 19:34:46
The Fierce Urgency of Now
An insightful article, and almost completely correct, both of which are very nearly a first for a (senior!) fellow at the Hoover Institution.
Glad to have you aboard, Mr. Diamond -- on these issues. Now let's talk about repealing Bush's tax cuts so that we can have the resources we need to fulfill our responsibilities on climate change and otherwise. posted 05/12/2008 at 00:17:24
Glad to have you aboard, Mr. Diamond -- on these issues. Now let's talk about repealing Bush's tax cuts so that we can have the resources we need to fulfill our responsibilities on climate change and otherwise. posted 05/12/2008 at 00:17:24
Obama Suggests Offer Maybe Clinton Can't Refuse
I am not advocating "cut[ting] Clinton off at the knees." But I am saying that I have no moral responsibility to help her, and will not do so unless and until she begins repaying the moral debt that she has (unnecessarily) incurred during her campaign. I will consider helping if and when she accumulates a couple of months campaigning her heart out for Obama. In other words, rewards follow (rather than precede) hard work. posted 05/11/2008 at 02:19:38
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...If Hillary accpets the VP slot under a liberal president, again, I will never vote for her in the future....
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And another mask slips. posted 05/11/2008 at 02:10:06
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...If Hillary accpets the VP slot under a liberal president, again, I will never vote for her in the future....
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And another mask slips. posted 05/11/2008 at 02:10:06
Yes. Her choices appear to be based more upon (perceived) loyalty than upon competence, and more upon image than substance. She didn't learn the rules, didn't plan ahead, and didn't pivot effectively when the landscape changed. Thus she failed her first test of executive ability, while Obama largely passed his. posted 05/10/2008 at 14:33:23
Clinton had her chance, blew it, and helped McCain and the GOP along the way. Obama (and us) owe her nothing. She owes *us*, and had better begin repaying her debt now, lest we foreclose on her political future. America does not need any more DLC-style Democrats. posted 05/10/2008 at 14:26:15
I will contribute nothing to help Clinton. Her words and actions have supported McCain and undermined Obama, the Democratic Party, and progressives generally. She has spent her credibility, accumulating a debt that only years of good service can repay. We owe her nothing. She owes *us*. It's time for her to begin repayment, lest we foreclose on her political future. posted 05/10/2008 at 14:18:15
Obama's Vice President: Who Will It Be? (POLL)
The GOP media will spin any Democrat as a traitor, so the less attention we pay to them, the better. posted 05/10/2008 at 00:06:37
I wish for Dean, hope for Feingold, expect Richardson, and dread Hillary. posted 05/09/2008 at 22:14:24
Clinton's Open Letter To Obama On MI and FL
When Clinton says, "I have consistently said that the votes cast in Florida and Michigan in January should be counted" she lies bald-facedly. She (and all the other Democratic candidates) agreed to the rules under which Florida and Michigan forfeited their delegates for line-jumping.
I've had more than enough of liars attempting to revise history and to redefine the language. Have you? posted 05/08/2008 at 20:39:44
I've had more than enough of liars attempting to revise history and to redefine the language. Have you? posted 05/08/2008 at 20:39:44
Game, Set, Match: North Carolina and Indiana Settled the Democratic Nomination
Good riddance, because nearly "all" of the "supporters" you cite are GOP trolls. posted 05/07/2008 at 16:28:33
Reality Has Well-Known Obama Bias
And don't forget Rush's trolls and the weakness of THEIR grasp on reality.
Like shooting fish in a barrel. posted 05/07/2008 at 16:54:29
Like shooting fish in a barrel. posted 05/07/2008 at 16:54:29
Carville: If Hillary Gave Obama "One Of Her Cojones, They'd Both Have Two"
Yawn. Haven't we heard enough of this doubletalk over the past 7 years? If Hillary had "cojones", she'd have voted against allowing Bush into Iraq. Unless by "cojones", Carville means "no balls." posted 05/06/2008 at 14:06:50
Howard Dean On Fox News Sunday: Your Coverage Is "Shockingly Biased" (VIDEO)
You mean like Bush and the GOP have done? Oh yeah,. they've also given full control over all your descendants' wallets to the government.
The only real "socialism" in America is corporate welfare. posted 05/04/2008 at 14:12:00
The only real "socialism" in America is corporate welfare. posted 05/04/2008 at 14:12:00
It is a corrupt act to isolate and continually replay 3 seconds of a half-hour speech to attempt to smear the speaker. It is also an act that debases our political discourse by moving the focus from problems, policies, and even personal character, onto mindless gossip, vicious innuendo, and character assassination.
Got it? posted 05/04/2008 at 14:09:49
Got it? posted 05/04/2008 at 14:09:49
Mr. Obama Goes to Washington
I think you meant to write "...unless the GOP, Clinton, and the media tried everything in their power to create those doubts." posted 05/02/2008 at 15:24:29
It's no secret that GOP operatives will say anything to win, no matter how much it hurts America. posted 05/02/2008 at 15:23:02
When so many former Clinton officials show "personal grudges against the Clintons" you have to ask whether the Clintons' actions might have something to do with that. posted 05/02/2008 at 15:19:00
Democratic Party's Patience For Clinton Wears Thin
Despite the GOP's success with this tactic, repeating lies does not transmute them into the truth.
If a person needs to lie to support her candidate or to oppose another candidate, that only shows that she lacks confidence in her argument. posted 05/02/2008 at 14:35:17
If a person needs to lie to support her candidate or to oppose another candidate, that only shows that she lacks confidence in her argument. posted 05/02/2008 at 14:35:17
Yes He Will. Because Yes, We Can.
That Wright assertion is highly doubtful, but it's still understandable that he'd say it, given the Tuskegee Experiment ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuskegee_experiment ) and the long history of slavery and discrimination. posted 05/02/2008 at 16:31:13
And I also "reward" Obama-bashing with contributions to him.
Obama 08: because judgement beats "experience" every time posted 05/02/2008 at 16:23:52
Obama 08: because judgement beats "experience" every time posted 05/02/2008 at 16:23:52
Michigan's Fake Primary Produced Fake Results
The point is that many Democrats voted in the GOP primary because the Democratic primary didn't count. Under Hillary's rules, those voters would not be allowed to participate in a re-vote. Because only her name was on the Democratic ballot, probably most of those voters would not have supported her in a re-vote. Thus, it just ain't fair. The fairest solution is applying the rules to which all the candidates -- including Hillary -- agreed before the election: that Michigan and Florida wouldn't count towards delegate selection. posted 05/01/2008 at 22:07:18
Bloomberg Slams Clinton, McCain Gas Tax Plan
As others repeatedly have explained to you, the Clinton-McCain "gas tax holiday" will simply permit BIG OIL to raise their prices to compensate for the suspended tax. The only effect will be to transfer the tax revenue to BIG OIL so that they can "rip [you] off some more".
BTW, why didn't Hillary read the Iraq NIE before voting for the war? posted 05/01/2008 at 21:50:08
BTW, why didn't Hillary read the Iraq NIE before voting for the war? posted 05/01/2008 at 21:50:08
Hillary put us into that rathole. She didn't even bother to read the most-authoritative intelligence document before doing so.
Obama (like many of us) knew better, and opposed the war when opposition could still make a difference.
Obama 08: judgement in the face of political opposition. posted 05/01/2008 at 21:46:06
Obama (like many of us) knew better, and opposed the war when opposition could still make a difference.
Obama 08: judgement in the face of political opposition. posted 05/01/2008 at 21:46:06
Repeating false assertions does not make them true, the GOP and Hillary notwithstanding. posted 05/01/2008 at 21:39:43
Maybe if Hillary didn't vote to put us there -- without even reading the Iraq NIE, by the way -- we wouldn't be spending that $12B each month. posted 05/01/2008 at 21:37:01
Clinton Camp Defends Gas Plan: She Doesn't Need To Listen To Experts
That's the long and the short of it. It's time for us to turn out the DLC moles.
Obama 08: because judgement trumps "experience" posted 05/02/2008 at 01:47:41
Obama 08: because judgement trumps "experience" posted 05/02/2008 at 01:47:41
Senator: Obama Has Dozens Of Secret Superdelegates Lined Up
I've heard that 70% of Americans think that John McCain's adopted pastor -- that would be John Hagee -- is a certifiable Rapture-based nutcase, and that 60% of Americans demand that McCain denounce him, reject him, and return all campaign contributions attributable to his support. posted 04/30/2008 at 21:43:05
Thoughts on Pennsylvania, Clinton and Obama from a "Realisticrat"
Yes. I believe that the perception of character is that largest single factor in most voters' choices. That's why McCain is still in the running, despite his disastrous policy prescriptions. That's why Bush "won". And that's why Obama has a good chance, and Hillary has little chance. posted 04/22/2008 at 18:08:25
This blog promotes the self-defeating idea that the GOP will not be able to vigorously swiftboat candidates who adopt GOP ideas, attitudes, policies, and friends. The fact is that they can -- and will -- swiftboat anyone. Remember Max Cleland in 2002? Remember John Kerry? The Democratic establishment assured us that Kerry would be immune to GOP challenges to his patriotism, and assured us that Dean would be uniquely and terribly vulnerable to the same. Then came the Swiftboaters, and the rest is history. Dean would have fought that crap and attacked the GOP, and would have had a much better chance of winning.
The bottom line is that Democrats win when they stand up for their principles (see 2006), and lose when they compromise them (see 2002). And no, Bill Clinton is not a counterexample. He'd have lost had Ross Perot not taken 19% of the popular vote in 1992 and 9% in 1996 -- most of it from the GOP.
And finally, the Clinton skeletons are hardly out of the closet. The Mark Penn conflict-of-interest shows us that Hillary has accumulated plenty of skeletons, and the Colombian conflict-of-interest shows us that Bill has accumulated plenty more. Then there are all the old skeletons. I can already see the GOP commercials about "I did not have sex with that woman".
As a great (though alas, mythical) sage noted long ago, "There is naught that you can do, other than to resist, with hope or without it." posted 04/22/2008 at 17:37:05
The bottom line is that Democrats win when they stand up for their principles (see 2006), and lose when they compromise them (see 2002). And no, Bill Clinton is not a counterexample. He'd have lost had Ross Perot not taken 19% of the popular vote in 1992 and 9% in 1996 -- most of it from the GOP.
And finally, the Clinton skeletons are hardly out of the closet. The Mark Penn conflict-of-interest shows us that Hillary has accumulated plenty of skeletons, and the Colombian conflict-of-interest shows us that Bill has accumulated plenty more. Then there are all the old skeletons. I can already see the GOP commercials about "I did not have sex with that woman".
As a great (though alas, mythical) sage noted long ago, "There is naught that you can do, other than to resist, with hope or without it." posted 04/22/2008 at 17:37:05
Hillary Clinton Ad Features Osama Bin Laden: Campaign AdWatch
Yes, we need to focus on who can handle tough issues, like whether we should go to war. Clinton has already shown how she handles such issues: she caves to the GOP and embraces their talking points, fails to read the most authoritative intelligence, and unconstitutionally cedes Congress's war power to a reckless President. posted 04/21/2008 at 14:49:29
Top Clinton Strategist Defends Clinton Slam On Democratic Activists
I hope Obama is wise enough to refuse the offer. posted 04/20/2008 at 23:25:21
Don't feed the.... posted 04/20/2008 at 23:03:04
She ought to have spent more time reading the Iraq NIE (hint, she never read it at all) and less time making speeches about what she hoped Bush would do with the "authority" that she voted to give him. It was perfectly clear that he would abuse it. Remember how he talked about not needing Congressional authority to invade Iraq during summer 2002? posted 04/20/2008 at 21:09:13
How about abiding by the agreement -- into which Clinton freely entered before the FL and MI primaries -- that they wouldn't count for the reasons we all know? posted 04/20/2008 at 20:59:35
In light of her comments, I have to ask Sen. Clinton about the "national security and foreign policy" issues on which she disagrees with Democratic activists. Is it:
1. On the invasion of Afghanistan (which, BTW, almost all Democratic activists supported)?
2. On whether we should have invaded Iraq?
3. On whether she should have voted to "authorize" Bush to invade Iraq?
4. On warrantless (and felonious: read 50 USC 1809) wiretapping?
5. On torture?
6. On rendition?
7. On signing statements?
8. On Bush's other crimes and abuses of power?
9. On other issues (please describe in detail)?
C'mon Sen. Clinton, let's hear all about how you disagree with Democratic activists! And please tell us whom you were addressing (e.g. DLC-ers, neocons, Rupert Murdoch, Richard Scaife, etc.) when you made these remarks. posted 04/20/2008 at 20:57:45
1. On the invasion of Afghanistan (which, BTW, almost all Democratic activists supported)?
2. On whether we should have invaded Iraq?
3. On whether she should have voted to "authorize" Bush to invade Iraq?
4. On warrantless (and felonious: read 50 USC 1809) wiretapping?
5. On torture?
6. On rendition?
7. On signing statements?
8. On Bush's other crimes and abuses of power?
9. On other issues (please describe in detail)?
C'mon Sen. Clinton, let's hear all about how you disagree with Democratic activists! And please tell us whom you were addressing (e.g. DLC-ers, neocons, Rupert Murdoch, Richard Scaife, etc.) when you made these remarks. posted 04/20/2008 at 20:57:45
Gingrich: Left Wing Of The Democratic Party "Admires" American Terrorists
Oy vey, go impute unpatriotism somewhere else. And why haven't you discussed how wrong McVeigh's beliefs are, or condemned the Klan?
Oh yeah, I don't see your flag pin. posted 04/19/2008 at 22:30:16
Oh yeah, I don't see your flag pin. posted 04/19/2008 at 22:30:16
Um, so?
I have yet to hear a coherent -- let alone a well-researched -- analysis of the likely effects of leaving Iraq, or of staying, for that matter. posted 04/19/2008 at 22:26:07
I have yet to hear a coherent -- let alone a well-researched -- analysis of the likely effects of leaving Iraq, or of staying, for that matter. posted 04/19/2008 at 22:26:07
Since when do Democrats admire Bush and Cheney? posted 04/19/2008 at 22:13:51
Clinton Faces Steady Erosion Of Support
Thanks for the best laugh I've had all week! posted 04/19/2008 at 21:55:03
Clinton Slams Democratic Activists At Private Fundraiser
I am not deciding anything. The Democratic Party sets the rules for how it uses the results of primaries. Since it is a private organization, it has a 1st Amendment right to decide with whom it will associate, which includes a right to decide whom it will accept as delegates to its (private) national convention. All the candidates, including Hillary, agreed to these rules before the primaries were run. Only when it became obvious that Hillary could not win without Florida's and Michigan's delegates did she begin this "disenfranchisement" nonsense.
As for the voting, the voters in Florida and Michigan did it, as per their Constitutional rights to equal protection of the laws. But they do not, as you implicitly assert, have any Constitutional (or statutory) right to force the Democratic Party to allocate delegates against the Party's rules.
Maybe you need to refer back to that little old doc called The Constitution? posted 04/20/2008 at 23:17:07
As for the voting, the voters in Florida and Michigan did it, as per their Constitutional rights to equal protection of the laws. But they do not, as you implicitly assert, have any Constitutional (or statutory) right to force the Democratic Party to allocate delegates against the Party's rules.
Maybe you need to refer back to that little old doc called The Constitution? posted 04/20/2008 at 23:17:07
Yeah! And she should choose Lieberman as her running-math, and maybe name Cheney as Secretary of Defense in-waiting, too. Oh yeah, and Mark Penn as Attorney General in-waiting. posted 04/20/2008 at 23:06:20
MoveOn is not a Democratic Party organization. It was perfectly proper for it to choose to endorse a candidate. Also, over 70% of the MoveOn members who voted on the endorsement question supported endorsing Obama. http://moveon.org/press/pr/obamaendorsementrelease.html . That's usually called a "landslide win". posted 04/20/2008 at 18:27:33
MoveOn advocates issues and candidates. It is not a party organization and has not, to my knowledge, ever committed to neutrality on Democratic Party issues or candidates. It is not the DNC, and no one should try to hold it to the DNC's commitments.
From its "about" page (http://www.moveon.org/about.html ):
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The MoveOn family of organizations brings real Americans back into the political process. With over 3.2 million members across America " from carpenters to stay-at-home moms to business leaders " we work together to realize the progressive promise of our country....
...MoveOn.org Civic Action, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization, formerly known just as MoveOn.org, primarily focuses on education and advocacy on important national issues. MoveOn.org Political Action, a federal PAC, formerly known as MoveOn PAC, mobilizes people across the country to fight important battles in Congress and help elect candidates who reflect our values.
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The word "Democrat" does not appear on that page, though the word "democratic" (small d) does. posted 04/20/2008 at 18:19:32
From its "about" page (http://www.moveon.org/about.html ):
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The MoveOn family of organizations brings real Americans back into the political process. With over 3.2 million members across America " from carpenters to stay-at-home moms to business leaders " we work together to realize the progressive promise of our country....
...MoveOn.org Civic Action, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization, formerly known just as MoveOn.org, primarily focuses on education and advocacy on important national issues. MoveOn.org Political Action, a federal PAC, formerly known as MoveOn PAC, mobilizes people across the country to fight important battles in Congress and help elect candidates who reflect our values.
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The word "Democrat" does not appear on that page, though the word "democratic" (small d) does. posted 04/20/2008 at 18:19:32
Obama won of 15 of 28 primaries, ex Michigan & Florida.
We all know why Michigan's and Florida's primaries don't count, and, further, Hillary agreed beforehand that they wouldn't count. She didn't start this "disenfranchisment" nonsense until she saw that she couldn't win the nomination without those primaries. posted 04/20/2008 at 14:24:55
We all know why Michigan's and Florida's primaries don't count, and, further, Hillary agreed beforehand that they wouldn't count. She didn't start this "disenfranchisment" nonsense until she saw that she couldn't win the nomination without those primaries. posted 04/20/2008 at 14:24:55
Quite. But alas, some of the trolls (and many of their cohorts in the media) are much craftier than vsign. Still, voters by and large are catching on, so I have some for this election. posted 04/20/2008 at 14:16:01
Quit the revisionism. *Dean* was far and away the choice of Democratic activists -- and Democratic-leaning independents -- in 2004. The Democratic establishment ignored the activists and chose Kerry for many of the same reasons you want us to choose Hillary.
As for the medals, "lefty revolutionaries associated with terrorism" and the rest, we know exactly where you're coming from. posted 04/20/2008 at 12:54:36
As for the medals, "lefty revolutionaries associated with terrorism" and the rest, we know exactly where you're coming from. posted 04/20/2008 at 12:54:36
Clinton said, ""We have been less successful in caucuses because it brings out the activist base of the Democratic Party. MoveOn didn't even want us to go into Afghanistan. I mean, that's what we're dealing with.... And they are very driven by their view of our positions, and it's primarily national security and foreign policy that drives them. I don't agree with them. They know I don't agree with them."
On what "national security and foreign policy" topics does she disagree with Democratic activists? On the invasion of Afghanistan (which, BTW, almost all Democratic activists supported -- she need to stop lying)? Or on national security and foreign policy generally? If the latter, does she disagree with activists on (1) whether we should have invaded Iraq? (2) whether she should have voted to "authorize" Bush to invade Iraq? (3) warrantless wiretapping? (4) torture (5) rendition (6) signing statements, and/or (7) Bush's other crimes and abuses of power?
C'mon Hill, let's hear all about how you disagree with Democratic activists! And why don't you tell us whom you were addressing when you made these remarks? posted 04/20/2008 at 10:22:43
On what "national security and foreign policy" topics does she disagree with Democratic activists? On the invasion of Afghanistan (which, BTW, almost all Democratic activists supported -- she need to stop lying)? Or on national security and foreign policy generally? If the latter, does she disagree with activists on (1) whether we should have invaded Iraq? (2) whether she should have voted to "authorize" Bush to invade Iraq? (3) warrantless wiretapping? (4) torture (5) rendition (6) signing statements, and/or (7) Bush's other crimes and abuses of power?
C'mon Hill, let's hear all about how you disagree with Democratic activists! And why don't you tell us whom you were addressing when you made these remarks? posted 04/20/2008 at 10:22:43
Every four years the Democrats put up a wimp who refuses to fight the GOP, and every four years they lose. And they'd have lost in 1992 and 1996, too, if Ross Perot hadn't gotten 19% and 9%, respectively, of the popular vote, most of it from the GOP.
The solution to losing is fighting the GOP. Hard. posted 04/18/2008 at 23:13:48
The solution to losing is fighting the GOP. Hard. posted 04/18/2008 at 23:13:48
MoveOn was *created* to oppose Clinton's impeachment. The name is short for "censure him and move on". posted 04/18/2008 at 22:59:15
Shh! Be vewy, vewy quiet! Hillary is hunting the mythical 0.0001% of "swing voters" she thinks'll put her over the top -- while busily swiftboating Democratic regulars, easily half of independents, and the tsunami of people who've never voted before, but who're so pissed-off at DLC- and GOP-style politics that they're sure as hell going to vote this time. posted 04/18/2008 at 19:44:04
You mean the "disenfranchisement" that Clinton agreed to when she was the "inevitable" candidate? posted 04/18/2008 at 19:29:33
You forgot to rail about the flag pin.
Hillary is going down, and so is McCain, and so are those who say that up is down, reckless warmongering is the pursuit of peace, and slavery is freedom. posted 04/18/2008 at 19:20:10
Hillary is going down, and so is McCain, and so are those who say that up is down, reckless warmongering is the pursuit of peace, and slavery is freedom. posted 04/18/2008 at 19:20:10
Obama's Health
Mr. Stier, why aren't you wearing a flag pin? posted 04/18/2008 at 13:45:15
GAO Slams Bush on Terrorism - Says Al Qaeda Attack Likely and We Have No Plan
Not to mention that ordinary crime is nowhere near as bad as the media make out.
On the other hand, global warming, the GOP's usurpations of our Liberty, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are far, far worse than the media will deign to acknowledge.
They'd much rather swiftboat Obama with flag pins. posted 04/18/2008 at 01:04:10
On the other hand, global warming, the GOP's usurpations of our Liberty, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are far, far worse than the media will deign to acknowledge.
They'd much rather swiftboat Obama with flag pins. posted 04/18/2008 at 01:04:10
Worst. Debate. Ever.
No. Every network is in the tank for the GOP. posted 04/16/2008 at 22:58:13
The ABC Debate: A Shameful Night for the U.S. Media
Today's NYT front-pager on this debate was also very weak, almost completely failing to point out how poor the questions were. posted 04/17/2008 at 13:55:43
The only "left-leaning media" are second-and third-tier outfits like Mother Jones. The major media -- most all of which are owned by large corporations like Disney or GE -- are 100% in the tank for the GOP. Even the so-called "super-liberal" NYT carried Bush's water for the Iraq debacle (remember Judy Miller?) and is doing far too little to expose his many crimes. posted 04/16/2008 at 23:03:39
Hill, You've Got $100 Million; Show Some Class
Please describe why Hillary would make a "way cool" Supreme Court nominee. posted 04/16/2008 at 22:46:21
thismachine... is not denying anyone's right to do anything, nor ordering anyone to do anything. He is suggesting -- in a web forum -- that Clinton leave the race.
Get a grip. posted 04/16/2008 at 22:41:49
Get a grip. posted 04/16/2008 at 22:41:49
J.K. Rowling Takes On Fan's Harry Potter Book In Court
You've missed the point. I do not believe that the Constitution gives Congress the power to grant the very broad copyright protections you advocate. Art.I s.8 cl.8 instead envisions something quite like the "free-for-all" that you deplore. Remember, cl.8 speaks in terms of "their..Writings", not in the much-broader terms of "artistic vision and character continuity". Also, because copyrights are founded in cl.8, they are not an unconditional form of property like real estate or cash, but a circumscribed form of property that is protected not for the benefits it grants its owner, but to serve a larger interest: "the Progress of Science and useful Arts." posted 04/15/2008 at 14:20:08
As currently formulated, copyright law creates rights for original authors that contravene the Constitutional purpose of copyright.
Congress's power to grant copyrights arises from Art.I s.8 cl.8, which says, "[Congress shall have power] to promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries."
Modern copyright law defines "their...Writings" to include not only the original author's text as writ, but also most forms of so-called derivative works; that is, works that use elements of the original author's work but that also include significant (or even very large) amounts of independent work. By permitting authors to prohibit others from writing derivative works, modern copyright law discourages others' creativity and to that extent inhibits -- rather than promotes -- "the Progress of Science and useful Arts." It also permits original authors to raise prior restraints against works having significant independent expressive content -- something that the courts, in almost any other context, consider plainly to violate the 1st Amendment.
We need to change copyright law to permit most forms of derivative works (including, e.g., reference works like the one this blog discusses) while reserving to original authors only rights that plausibly constitute "their...Writings", such as the right to make a film that hews closely to a writing's storyline. Everything else should be open for interpretation and extension in the marketplace of ideas. posted 04/14/2008 at 23:02:13
Congress's power to grant copyrights arises from Art.I s.8 cl.8, which says, "[Congress shall have power] to promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries."
Modern copyright law defines "their...Writings" to include not only the original author's text as writ, but also most forms of so-called derivative works; that is, works that use elements of the original author's work but that also include significant (or even very large) amounts of independent work. By permitting authors to prohibit others from writing derivative works, modern copyright law discourages others' creativity and to that extent inhibits -- rather than promotes -- "the Progress of Science and useful Arts." It also permits original authors to raise prior restraints against works having significant independent expressive content -- something that the courts, in almost any other context, consider plainly to violate the 1st Amendment.
We need to change copyright law to permit most forms of derivative works (including, e.g., reference works like the one this blog discusses) while reserving to original authors only rights that plausibly constitute "their...Writings", such as the right to make a film that hews closely to a writing's storyline. Everything else should be open for interpretation and extension in the marketplace of ideas. posted 04/14/2008 at 23:02:13
Clinton: Gore And Kerry Lost Because They Were Viewed As Elitist
And no doubt Clinton thinks her husband won because (in her view) he isn't "an elitist" or (as she won't say), he's a DLC-er.
The fact is that he won because Ross Perot siphoned large quantities of GOP votes from both Bush I in 1992 and from Dole in 1996.
DLC-crap kills Democrats. It does not help them win. posted 04/14/2008 at 10:57:45
The fact is that he won because Ross Perot siphoned large quantities of GOP votes from both Bush I in 1992 and from Dole in 1996.
DLC-crap kills Democrats. It does not help them win. posted 04/14/2008 at 10:57:45
Wesley Clark for VP!
Another pundit raises "inevitability". posted 04/14/2008 at 16:37:18
Alberto Gonzales Finding It Tough To Land A New Job
Yes. Or the DLC, where he can advise Democrats how to win elections and govern successfully by "keeping their powder dry" posted 04/12/2008 at 20:20:55
He's a beautiful example of the lawyer that aspiring lawyers shouldn't want to become.
If we had the guts to prosecute the guy, then law schools could take him around in a cage to illustrate the perils of lying and incompetence. posted 04/12/2008 at 20:16:26
If we had the guts to prosecute the guy, then law schools could take him around in a cage to illustrate the perils of lying and incompetence. posted 04/12/2008 at 20:16:26
Bill Clinton Raises Bosnia, Gets Several Facts Wrong
Just what I'd expect from a DLC honcho. No thanks, Hillary: I've had more than enough from GOPpers and the DLC's GOPper-wannabes. posted 04/11/2008 at 13:49:00
Cheney, Others OK'd Harsh Interrogations
Please use the correct term for these practices: torture. Calling them "harsh interrogation" furthers the GOP's corrupt rhetorical frame. posted 04/10/2008 at 22:06:46
A Crocker Full Of Shiite
I agree on all points. We should avoid gratuitous insults. posted 04/09/2008 at 18:16:49
Mark Penn Speaks (In Private): Will Still Advise Clintons, Calms Nervous Aides
In a related development, Mr. Penn reported that he had selected Sen. John McCain as the new candidate for the Hillary Clinton for President campaign. "We are overjoyed to have John on-board. He has graciously extended a hand of bi-partisanship in agreeing to join the campaign."
Mr. McCain said, "I am grateful that the Hillary Clinton campaign has extended the hand of bi-partisanship to me. And in return, I am happy to accept this position, and also to extend my own hand of bi-partisanship by announcing that Sen. Joe Lieberman will be my running-mate." posted 04/07/2008 at 19:34:04
Mr. McCain said, "I am grateful that the Hillary Clinton campaign has extended the hand of bi-partisanship to me. And in return, I am happy to accept this position, and also to extend my own hand of bi-partisanship by announcing that Sen. Joe Lieberman will be my running-mate." posted 04/07/2008 at 19:34:04
So Clinton means to say that she was for firing Mr. Penn before she was against it? posted 04/07/2008 at 18:53:59
Hillary Clinton: I Started Criticizing Iraq War Before Obama
Thank you for posting that. One of the things she said was this: "I ended up voting for the resolution after carefully reviewing the information, intelligence that I had available...trying to discount political or other factors that I didn't believe should be in any way a part of this decision."
So why is it that she DIDN'T READ THE IRAQ NIE? posted 04/06/2008 at 00:26:36
So why is it that she DIDN'T READ THE IRAQ NIE? posted 04/06/2008 at 00:26:36
Exactly. posted 04/06/2008 at 00:15:55
Please reconsider your rhetoric. It does not help either Hillary or Obama. posted 04/06/2008 at 00:11:16
As Gimli the Dwarf noted, "The words of this wizard stand on their heads. In the
language of Orthanc help means ruin, and saving means slaying...."
Bush long ago sold his allegiance to Mordor, and Hillary is selling hers. posted 04/06/2008 at 00:06:23
language of Orthanc help means ruin, and saving means slaying...."
Bush long ago sold his allegiance to Mordor, and Hillary is selling hers. posted 04/06/2008 at 00:06:23
Then you aren't looking. http://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Barack_Obama%27s_Iraq_Speech . posted 04/06/2008 at 00:01:30
And what is it that she's saying? As for what Repubs do, promoting and voting for Bush's war was high on the list. Criticizing its promotion wasn't and isn't. posted 04/05/2008 at 23:59:52
I already described several ways in which she could have slowed the rush to war, or possibly even prevented it. She did none of those things.
About "SHE was responsible for the provision of getting inspectors back into Iraq....", prove it by appropriate citation to Thomas.
Democrats are not "blaming this war on her". They are, instead, recognizing that she had a very significant part in promoting it. That "the climate back then" included "vile Republican threats and intimidatino," etc., only shows that when the pressure's on, Clinton will buckle. That's NOT the kind of character we need in a President.
And "Obamans" are not "taking on a black-and-white world view". They recognize that many players had responsibility for this war, and also that many others opposed the war, include many Senators who -- unlike Clinton -- bucked "the climate back then" and voted AGAINST the war resolution.
BTW, why didn't Clinton read the Iraq NIE? posted 04/05/2008 at 23:22:48
About "SHE was responsible for the provision of getting inspectors back into Iraq....", prove it by appropriate citation to Thomas.
Democrats are not "blaming this war on her". They are, instead, recognizing that she had a very significant part in promoting it. That "the climate back then" included "vile Republican threats and intimidatino," etc., only shows that when the pressure's on, Clinton will buckle. That's NOT the kind of character we need in a President.
And "Obamans" are not "taking on a black-and-white world view". They recognize that many players had responsibility for this war, and also that many others opposed the war, include many Senators who -- unlike Clinton -- bucked "the climate back then" and voted AGAINST the war resolution.
BTW, why didn't Clinton read the Iraq NIE? posted 04/05/2008 at 23:22:48
The fact is that she voted to authorize Bush to do whatever he wanted to do. From the noises he was making all through 2002 (e.g., saying that he didn't need Congressional authorization to invade Iraq) it was very, very clear that he wanted to, and would, invade. And that's exactly what the authorization she voted for, um, authorized.
She had the power to stop (or at least delay) Bush and Cheney. She could have filibustered. She could have said that the whole thing was being done in unseemly haste right before an election. She could have spoken against the thing publicly. She could have entered the Capitol at 3am and chained herself to the locked Senate doors. Did she do any of this? NO.
And now she's lying about being against the war before Obama. Where's the "intellectual honesty" in that? posted 04/05/2008 at 22:39:58
She had the power to stop (or at least delay) Bush and Cheney. She could have filibustered. She could have said that the whole thing was being done in unseemly haste right before an election. She could have spoken against the thing publicly. She could have entered the Capitol at 3am and chained herself to the locked Senate doors. Did she do any of this? NO.
And now she's lying about being against the war before Obama. Where's the "intellectual honesty" in that? posted 04/05/2008 at 22:39:58
Her "best judgment" did not include reading the Iraq NIE. At a minimum, she did not do her homework.
As for this "I started criticizing the war in Iraq before he did" stuff, everything I know indicates it to be a lie. posted 04/05/2008 at 22:25:31
As for this "I started criticizing the war in Iraq before he did" stuff, everything I know indicates it to be a lie. posted 04/05/2008 at 22:25:31
How to Avoid a Democratic Disaster
Better than that, let's redo Michigan and Florida thusly:
Because Michigan violated the rules, and because Obama (and others) were not on the Michigan ballot, it's not fair to apportion delegates as selected by the primary. And there's not enough time to approve a primary. So, hold caucuses and apportion the delegates accordingly.
Because Florida violated the rules, but all of the candidates were on the ballot, some, but not all, of the delegates selected by the primary should get to go to the convention. For lack of a better proportion, say half. Then select the other half via caucuses. posted 03/31/2008 at 21:35:38
Because Michigan violated the rules, and because Obama (and others) were not on the Michigan ballot, it's not fair to apportion delegates as selected by the primary. And there's not enough time to approve a primary. So, hold caucuses and apportion the delegates accordingly.
Because Florida violated the rules, but all of the candidates were on the ballot, some, but not all, of the delegates selected by the primary should get to go to the convention. For lack of a better proportion, say half. Then select the other half via caucuses. posted 03/31/2008 at 21:35:38
Obama Is Right: Words Matter When You Want Your Opponent to Leave the Race
When a campaign needs arguments like this, it's on the skids. posted 03/31/2008 at 15:37:39
The Fear Factor
Pithy and accurate. posted 03/28/2008 at 23:07:57
Ralph Nader Tells Clinton "Don't Listen" To People Telling You To Drop Out
There were many factors in Gore's "loss". If any one of them had not been present, he would not have "lost". In no particular order, the factors that come to mind are:
1. Gore didn't defend or attack aggressively, or do enough to highlight his strong policy differences with Bush.
2. Nader -- got ~100,000 votes in Florida, Gore "lost" by 537 votes. No way would > 50,000-(537/2) = >49,732 of those votes have gone for Bush had Nader not run. And no way would most of those voters have stayed home had Nader not run.
3. Lieberman. There were many better choices. Why not an inoffensive longtime Dem like, er, Dodd?
4. Gore's sighs in the debates. Yeah, even the most trivial thing is probably worth at least 537 votes in Florida.
5. Um, 12/12/2000!
6. Katherine Harris. posted 03/28/2008 at 19:08:26
1. Gore didn't defend or attack aggressively, or do enough to highlight his strong policy differences with Bush.
2. Nader -- got ~100,000 votes in Florida, Gore "lost" by 537 votes. No way would > 50,000-(537/2) = >49,732 of those votes have gone for Bush had Nader not run. And no way would most of those voters have stayed home had Nader not run.
3. Lieberman. There were many better choices. Why not an inoffensive longtime Dem like, er, Dodd?
4. Gore's sighs in the debates. Yeah, even the most trivial thing is probably worth at least 537 votes in Florida.
5. Um, 12/12/2000!
6. Katherine Harris. posted 03/28/2008 at 19:08:26
Another nail in Hillary's electoral coffin, and in Nader's legacy, and another lesson in blowback.
This'll remind some voters of Nader's role in the 2000 debacle, and suggest that Hillary is playing a similar role this time around.
By the way, Ralph, the vast majority of those who want Hillary to drop out recognize and support her 1st Amendment right to run. We just think it's unwise for her to continue to do so. Don't imply that we oppose the 1st Amendment, Ralph. That's just wrong...and so GOP of you. posted 03/28/2008 at 18:46:40
This'll remind some voters of Nader's role in the 2000 debacle, and suggest that Hillary is playing a similar role this time around.
By the way, Ralph, the vast majority of those who want Hillary to drop out recognize and support her 1st Amendment right to run. We just think it's unwise for her to continue to do so. Don't imply that we oppose the 1st Amendment, Ralph. That's just wrong...and so GOP of you. posted 03/28/2008 at 18:46:40
Carville Unloads: Richardson Misled, Promised He'd Back Hillary
Mary Matalin does not just "happen[] to be a Republican." She is among those most responsible for empowering Bush, Cheney, and their congressional relatives. Further, she (and Carville) have done a great deal to weaken the Democratic Party by doing their best to turn it into a proxy of the GOP. posted 03/28/2008 at 14:20:01
Clinton Campaign Stands By Harsh Letter To Pelosi
Quote:
------
Weeding out all the folks who simply cannot face reality in the Democrat Party....
------
"Democrat" Party? Uh huh.... posted 03/27/2008 at 15:56:24
------
Weeding out all the folks who simply cannot face reality in the Democrat Party....
------
"Democrat" Party? Uh huh.... posted 03/27/2008 at 15:56:24
Clinton Owes Obama An Apology
Clinton needs not only to apologize, but to terminate her campaign and urge her supporters to back Obama. If she and her campaign continue their GOP-style tactics (see, e.g., Amb. Wilson's column here today) they will only improve McCain's chances. She made a good run for it, but has been getting increasingly dirty as her chances have dwindled. It's time for her to pack it in, salvage some credibility, and show that she can be a good team player.
C'mon Hillary, don't make Gov. Dean pick up The Phone. posted 03/26/2008 at 19:46:17
C'mon Hillary, don't make Gov. Dean pick up The Phone. posted 03/26/2008 at 19:46:17
Smears and Tears: How Obama's National Security Week Turned Into the Mendacity of Hype
"anti-American preacher". That's all we need to know about you, Mr. Wilson. You've endorsed the use of -- and implied legitimacy for -- the GOP's core character-assassination technique. This immoral step irredeemably contaminates your argument.
You need to go back to discussing policy and cease impugning the patriotism of a good person and an accomplished public servant. You know better. Not that anyone will believe your policy proclamations now that you've adopted the GOP's morals. posted 03/26/2008 at 14:07:09
You need to go back to discussing policy and cease impugning the patriotism of a good person and an accomplished public servant. You know better. Not that anyone will believe your policy proclamations now that you've adopted the GOP's morals. posted 03/26/2008 at 14:07:09
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