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Stephanopoulos Once Criticized The Tactics He Put To Use In Debate

Great clip. How could he do a debate after MANAGING Clinton's campaign (with Carville) then being his press secretary and "senior policy advisor"? Would Hillary have allowed someone with those ties to Obama as one of the two questioners? No way.

Why won't someone ask George Stephanopoulos if anyone from the Clinton campaign (Carville, Bill, Wolfson, others) TALKED TO HIM IN ADVANCE about the questions to ask?

Really, I'd bet many of them called, emailed, and fed him questions. (Hannity wasn't the only source). posted 04/18/2008 at 02:11:32

Bush On Iraq: "My Measure Of Success Is Victory - And Success"

I guess Brooks felt it was fair for Stephanopolous, who worked closely with Bill and Hillary Clinton for years, to be the one to ask her and her opponent questions?

Why doesn't anyone think about the calls Stephanopoulos has been getting from Carville, Bill, Wolfson, and many surrogates pressuring him to choose anti-Obama questions?

He was completely unsuited in that role. What was ABC thinking? Will anyone ever bring back the League of Women voters' role in this? Unlike Gibson and Stephanopolous, their debates were carefully designed to be fair and informative. posted 04/18/2008 at 02:15:11

The Wasted-Chance Debate Last Night

Why doesn't anyone ask Stephanopoulos if anyone in the Clinton campaign fed him questions in advance?

He is buddies with the sleazy James Carville (who, with Stephanopoulos, masterminded Clinton's 1992 election). And he served with Bill until 1996--first as press secretary, then as his "senior policy advisor".

DID Carville, Bill, and/or any other Clinton surrogates urge George to ask those questions? Seeing how they operate I would be SHOCKED if they didn't. posted 04/18/2008 at 02:07:10

Unprecedented Number Of Americans Witness Debate Atrocity

How much contact and help did George Stephanopoulos have from Bill Clinton, James Carville and other surrogates?

The Clintons are notorious for spamming journalists anyway. In this case, George worked to get Bill elected (along with Carville), then was press secretary and later "senior advisor" to Bill Clinton.

No way that Bill Clinton and the Clinton campaign (including Carville, Wolfson, the bunch of them) weren't talking to George before this debate. Someone should ask him to come clean about what happened pre-debate with him and the Clintons (emailed questions for Obama perhaps?).

He needs to be asked. posted 04/17/2008 at 17:44:32
I wonder how many calls George got from Bill? From James Carville? From other Clinton surrogates before the debate? Someone should ask.

As for Gibson, he's probably hoping for a McCain win and just following the party line ("he'll do best against Hillary").. posted 04/17/2008 at 17:40:30
Because there is no expectation of journalistic standards in broadcast news?

ITA. Stephanopoulos RAN Bill Clinton's with James Carville. Then he was Bill Clinton's press secretary. Then he became Bill Clinton's "senior policy advisor". He worked for Bill Clinton through the first term.

No Way should Stephanopoulos have been involved with the debate. posted 04/17/2008 at 17:38:19
And he didn't just "work" for Clinton. He and James Carville RAN the 1992 campaign for Clinton. Then he was press secretary and later "senior policy advisor" to Clinton for 4 years.

He didn't even TRY to be unbiased. I'm glad he and Gibson are getting an earful from media critics today---even though it appears they are too smug and self-satisfied to listen. posted 04/17/2008 at 17:34:30
No debate moderators have ever attacked Clinton that way. Never. And I disagree with you. Its not about Obama, its about journalism, and the total lack of it on display last night. (Look at an old League of Women's Voters-sponsored tape to see what debates COULD look like).

I think if the questions had been the same level of nonsense--and so obviously intent on attacking and discrediting Hillary instead of Obama---critics would have been just as vocal (or more so) this morning. Even some Clinton supporters have said they were shocked at how biased (and unimportant) the questions were.

It was an obvious mess, journalistically speaking, regardless of who the target was. posted 04/17/2008 at 17:28:30
That is so sad. To have such a large audience last night and for ABC to completely WASTE the opportunity to hear the candidates discussing the (MANY) important issues facing our country.

And re: Rev. Wright. I have a question for the smugly incompetent Gibson and Stephanopolous. "Reverend Wright fought for his country in the Vietnam War. Did either of you ever have the 'patriotism' to risk your LIFE for it? You have a helluva nerve questioning the patriotism of Rev. Wright. "

Was the pro-Clinton hit job preplanned and coordinated? It wasn't only the ridiculous questions that repeatedly attacked Obama. It was also the camerawork and directing, that made it seem only Clinton supporters (like Chelsea) were in the room. Reaction shots should be barred. They are rife for manipulating the views---as ABC showed us all too clearly yesterday.. posted 04/17/2008 at 17:24:08

Obama Criticizes Debate, Attacks Clinton For Being "In Her Element"

The more I think about the Wright question, "Does he love his country?" the angrier it makes me.

Rev. Wright risked his life to serve his country in Vietnam. Have Stephanopoulos or Gibson done as much? Also, Wright has been highly praised by many religious leaders who've known him well through the years--including the pastor of Hillary's own Methodist church in DC.

Did anyone mention that? Of course not. What a hit job it was. I wonder how many questions James Carville and Bill Clinton contributed to Stephanopoulos before the event.

Why doesn't anyone ask him? posted 04/18/2008 at 01:49:34

ABC Debate: High Ratings, Critics Give Broadcast Poor Reviews

10.5 million people watched because they are interested in the candidates and the issues.

High ratings does not mean that ABC did a good job with the debate. Voters wanted to see Clinton and Obama. Unfortunately, we had to endure the atrocious "moderating" in order to try to do that.

High ratings are a compliment to the candidates and the voters. NOT to ABC. posted 04/18/2008 at 01:23:38
10 million viewers? What ABC News should feel worst about is how they squandered this opportunity.

We had two hours of airtime (well, minus half hour of commercials), to hear these two candidates discuss the problems of war and peace, foreign policy with many nations, the environment, the Bush administration's misdeeds and consequences, health care, the recession/monetary policy, leadership, education, taxes, trade.....on and on.

Instead, for an hour we got, lapel pins...Rev. Wright (who, btw, fought for this country in Vietnam. Did Charlie or George do the same? How dare they impugn his patiotism! Plus, we still have free speech in this country, despite what the right-wingers say.) ...."bitter"...the Weather Underground (but NOT Bill's pardon)...Bosnia (again?) .... on and on. What garbage.

Broadcasting news used to be considered a "public trust", a privilege that should require a high level of journalistic skills and experience. Instead, we got ....this. What a disgrace. posted 04/17/2008 at 17:17:06

George Stephanopoulos Defends ABC Debate Peformance

I hope he's seeing there's not really a "range of opinion" out there today. The people who take journalism and debates (and fairness in media) seriously are saying ABC, Gibson and Stephanopolous did a HORRIBLE job.

Of course, he's denying its true. What's he going to say, "Yes, we were trying to think of everything negative we could throw at Obama--and then badger him with our inflammatory and misleading non-issues over and over? Gibson and I are a disgrace to journalists everywhere!"

That would be nice, but...never happen. This is the man who hitched his wagon to the Clinton star and stayed with him for years. "I did not have sex with that woman." "I did not betray the American voters' trust by violating every tenet of good journalism." No difference. posted 04/17/2008 at 16:04:36

The Very Serious Debate, Starring The Very Serious George & Charlie

Two especially great points worth repeating: Gibson/Stephanopoulos completely used Republican talking points. It was like Fox News---only without the anti-Clinton part.

Second point: It's INCREDIBLE to look at the hatefest last night toward Obama re: lapel pins, his pastor's patriotism (who fought for his country in Vietnam), some former hippie that Bill Clinton pardoned..... and think about how MILD the response has been from these same MSM sources to the actual CRIMES of the Bush administration.

That Hillary is so at home with Republican talking points is disappointing.

Has anyone asked how much advice George Stephanopoulos took from Clinton operatives like his old Clinton campaign buddy Carville--or Bill himself? After hearing they were calling Bill Richardson EIGHT TIMES A DAY, I'm sure they didn't hesitate to give Stephanopoulus plenty of "advice" on questions to ask.

Someone needs to ask. And also ask about the Black / Penn connection and if McCain /Clinton have coordinated strategies ever. It sure looks that way. posted 04/18/2008 at 01:40:47

Ed Rendell: Early Debate Questions Weren't Real

I support Obama all the way, but of course Clinton came across better. That was a total hit job by Gibson and Stephanopolous. I hope someone on You Tube just excerpts all the questions and strings them together. It would make an excellent lesson for journalism students of what not to do.

It was like watching Fox News conduct a debate--only without Hillary in the room. I'm glad there is such an uproar (and I, too, contributed to Obama last night. Hopefully there will be a HUGE spike in donations for the next 24 hours in response to the unprofessionalism at ABC.) One can hope. posted 04/17/2008 at 11:15:21

Hannity Spoonfed Left-Field Debate Question To Stephanopoulos

McCain's a weak candidate. Obama (if he can finish strong, not too battered) will not only beat him, but might change the electoral college map. posted 04/17/2008 at 11:07:49

Where Is the League of Women Voters When We Need Them?

ABC was Fox--but Fox without the anti-Clinton bias.

So, in reality, even worse! Not only was it not fair, it wasn't "balanced" (in its dislike of the candidates).

The pro-Hillary audience reaction shots just added to the incredible level of bias--in big things and small. Unbelievable. posted 04/17/2008 at 15:56:50
And Clinton PARDONED Ayers!!!!! Where was the question to Hillary about the PARDON of the Weatherman Underground? (Assuming this is at all important---which, of course, it wasn't other than being a desperate one-sided effort at 'gotcha').

Tv journalism has gotten worse and worse these past ten years. We desperately need the League of Women voters to run the debates if we really want an intelligent, informed electorate. posted 04/17/2008 at 15:54:19
Yes, the League of Women voters managed these debates perfectly. Voters deserve that again. posted 04/17/2008 at 11:17:15

Worst. Debate. Ever.

Were Gibson and Stephanopolous really booed at the end? Because that would be awesome.

ABC is running a poll (of course, "Who won the debate?") If you want to weigh in for PR value (Obama: Clinton was 2:1 last I looked) its:

http://abcnews.go.com/politics You can vote for the winner. (The two "moderators" were the losers). posted 04/17/2008 at 00:16:37

Clinton emphatically says Obama can win White House

That's a 10 pt drop for Hillary when she's done everything she can think of, pulled out all the pols, and even had the good fortune for ABCs two debate moderators to go all out to try a hatchet job on Obama.

She's STILL down 10 from a week ago. To be viable, she needs to win remaining states by 60 percent (preferably 70%). That's not going to happen. Sorry, but even if she gets PA (and I agree she probably will by 10 or so)....it's over. posted 04/17/2008 at 03:43:23
Great letter. I hope ABC and other irresponsible broadcast "journalists" feel the backlash from this kind of questioning. Voters aren't as stupid as much of the media seems to think. posted 04/17/2008 at 03:37:23
Lol. posted 04/16/2008 at 23:35:49
I donated. I hope that enough people get this idea tonight that the Obama campaign can see a big spike in donations post-debate. They'll understand.

As for Hillary, I hope people donate to her, too. I worry about the small businesses she's stiffing--like UC Irvine that's taking her to collection.

"Pay her bills and stimulate the economy!" She owes people all over the country. (Another thing the Clinton hitmen didn't ask about). posted 04/16/2008 at 23:29:46
Don't forget how she "slimed fish in Alaska" for her first job. It was "great experience".

You tell 'em, Paulette Revere! posted 04/16/2008 at 23:22:37
The problem is....so far, he's not becoming a better candidate. She's swiftboating him and he's taking the gentlemanly route, "I respect her accomplishments", "anyone could make a mistake", on and on.

Meanwhile, HER surrogates (Stephanopolous and Gibson) are bringing up any trash they can think of or invent (the WEATHER UNDERGROUND? Are they INSANE?)

I don't think he should get in the mud, too. But he's GOT to have surrogates--including those who bombard the media with their agenda like Hillary's do.

They've GOT to come up with a strategy against swiftboating. Something Obama's comfortable with, something that lets him stay classy, honest, and dignified while bringing out the (often ugly) TRUTH.

Hillary is doing him an inadvertent favor in that regard. He's GOT to be prepared for this sh*t. posted 04/16/2008 at 23:19:01
He's not crying. I'm crying. Because, yes, many democrats do care about fair questions and intelligent debate rather than a politically biased hatchet job.

Go figure. posted 04/16/2008 at 23:13:06
Great Idea! I just sent $25.

I wish it could have been more, but at least the gesture felt very satisfying (that, and a negative email to ABC News). posted 04/16/2008 at 23:11:31
They swift boat him and he praises her (repeatedly). Hillary's camp is clearly in control of the emails that set the press's agenda.

If Obama doesn't have the killer instinct, and won't use surrogates for it on legitimate points, I'm sorry, but GAME OVER. posted 04/16/2008 at 22:06:44
They really WERE even worse than Blitzer! How is that possible?

And at least other networks had a real journalist or two on the panel. These two "personalities" (including Bill's former top advisor for years) would have been better replaced by Barbara Walters and her, "What kind of tree would you be?" questions.

These two were incompetent embarrassments. posted 04/16/2008 at 22:03:02
Done. Great idea. Thanks for the links.

I'm through with ABC News. posted 04/16/2008 at 21:59:25
Keith Olbermann does a good job. As for the rest? I'll pass, too.

It's sad that tv "personalities" don't have real journalistic training and skills. They're left to hammer Obama with media-invented "issues"---in the hope of creating some soundbite that can keep the anti-Obama clips alive for another week of airtime.

It's disgraceful. And, worse, I not only don't think I can vote for Hillary any more, I'm kind of hoping that she'll lose. ABC will be so self-congratulatory, too. I'm so sick of this sh*t. posted 04/16/2008 at 21:44:56
Did they get Hillary her pillow yet? posted 04/16/2008 at 21:37:44
Not Charlie Rose. He would have been better.

Charles Gibson. Would it have killed ABC to have used actual, you know, trained journalists? Chris Matthews' "College Bowl" students ask better questions.

This is a disgrace. posted 04/16/2008 at 21:37:00
Stephanopolous? What's wrong, wasn't Bill himself available?

There's no journalism on display here. What a hatchet job. posted 04/16/2008 at 21:35:05

Obama Reports 2007 Income: Made $4.2 Million In 2007

Bill Clinton got $800,000 (more than some people make in 20 years) for lobbying on behalf of Colombia for CAFTA. Conflict of interest? (Plus Mark Penn's $300,000 from the same government)

I'd like to see the Clintons' 2007 tax return. AND Hillary's earmarks. And the library donors. Some patterns, perhaps? posted 04/16/2008 at 19:49:52

Hillary Clinton On Southern Working Class Whites In 1995: "Screw 'Em"

3 more SDs went to Obama today, plus a newspaper endorsement earlier this week.

Hillary's not going anywhere. posted 04/16/2008 at 20:24:38
That's not much of a denial. Maybe they're afraid a tape will show up if they lie about it.

Of course, the press won't care. Neither this, nor Bill's "bitter-type" follow-up will attract their attention. But...good try. posted 04/16/2008 at 20:23:53

Polygamist Ranch Women Give Today Show Interview, Deny Sexual Abuse Claims

Clearly the authorities were right to take the children and investigate. These women were carefully chosen to represent the group and there's something wrong with them.

When asked, nicely, about what age children can marry, the main spokeswoman could only repeat, robotically, "They are not forced."

Sorry, but that just sounds like a brainwashed way of saying, "Yes, that sleazy 50 year old man repeatedly rapes my 10 year old daughter, but she doesn't mind. We are happy here."

Very disturbing. I'm glad the government intervened (but I wish they'd stop talking about "Sarah" who said she'd been abused and beaten. If anyone in this cult has figured out who she was, I'm sure she's being hidden and probably hurt. I don't know why they kept talking about it publicly. posted 04/16/2008 at 20:17:19

Hill, You've Got $100 Million; Show Some Class

I disagree. Why is "bitter" such a big gaffe? Maybe its true, maybe not. Maybe Obama was wrong to try to interject philosophical musings and generalizations into his speech. But it would hardly seem like a big deal (if the MEDIA wasn't making it one).


Bigger issues, that the media is ignoring?


*If the Clinton and McCain campaigns are coodrinating strategy via Charlie Black and Mark Penn (both heads of the same company, buddies, and both making MILLIONS from their two candidates).


*Was Mahill Fowler a Clinton or McCain plant? The media embraced her because she blogged at Huffpo. Someone should have asked her if she ever was approached by one of the campaigns. Maybe not,--but it'd be good to know.


*Did Mark Penn go to Colombia with Hillary's knowledge and approval? On her behalf to give a private message about CAFTA like he did to the Canadians about NAFTA?


*Does she think there's a conflict of interest in Bill being paid $800,000 by Colombia and Penn being paid $300,000 when both are representing her campaign?


*Does anyone really think Obama cares less about the blue collar workers than Hillary does? Or that he shares Rev. WRight's 30 second soundbites? Really? posted 04/16/2008 at 15:40:25

Man In Clinton's 'Bitter' Ad Isn't Registered To Vote

You're right. Her commercials have no ideas, no accomplishments, no message.

This one from PA is really bad. (And, yes, if they're representing PA voters, and the guy told them he's from NJ, they should have found someone else). No offense to the people, but they're all very....ordinary looking. To the point of being charicatures--i.e. some ad man saying,"We don't want anyone who looks like one of those fancy-schmancy ACT- TORS". Very unconvincing. posted 04/16/2008 at 16:08:15

Pennsylvania Debate Live Updates: ABC Hosts April 16 Democratic Debate

Could they also ask if Mark Penn talked about Hillary on his Colombia trip? (And if he and Bill getting $1.2 million from Colombia re: CAFTA is a conflict of interest?)

Didn't Penn carry the message to Canada re: NAFTA, too? posted 04/16/2008 at 20:06:29
I wish they'd ask about the Penn-Black connection.

"Are these two top advisors (and lobbyist business partners) to the Clinton and McCain campaign coordinating their strategies?" It sure looks like it. posted 04/16/2008 at 20:03:55

Bill Clinton Suggests Young Voters Too Easily Fooled

Don't forget the questionable ethics--both personally (womanizing) and politically (financial hypocrisy and betraying a "deep principle" re: torture). His health is, at best, questionable, especially given his age and the demands of the job.

McCain is not conservative enough on social issues for the right wing. And he's decided to campaign as a supporter of the Bush war. He can't understand the difference between Shiites and Sunnis and he admits he doesn't grasp economics.

If we can't beat McCain in November, this country should just become a one-party state. posted 04/16/2008 at 10:25:16
I agree. He thought we'd welcome him back and couldn't wait to extol the virtues of the Clinton years (checkered though they sometimes were).

He was wrong. To many Democrats, Obama is the best candidate for the times--and even the best candidate many of us have ever seen in our lifetimes. I think Bill Clinton deeply resents Obama for it--and resents all the Democrats who support him. posted 04/16/2008 at 10:20:25
It's not Huffpos fault. For those of us who (now) can't stand the Clintons, its because of what we're seeing and reading about them everywhere.

Even where the media spins favorably for them (CNN, for one), if you read enough about the campaign, you can see the selectivity, distortion, and -obvious- bias.

The way they act and talk is what's hurting them. Plus, in her 7 years in the Senate, Hillary (for many) has completely failed to impress. She's had the chance to be a leader on a lot of very important things during the Bush years.

I don't like many of her choices in the Senate, and her campaign has been just more of the same, if not worse. posted 04/16/2008 at 10:17:26
Its so easy for McCain. There's basically no criticism of him anywhere. Of course more of the public would have a better opinion of him than the current media cat toys, Obama and Hillary. posted 04/16/2008 at 10:12:22
Hey, let's be kind to Bill! He was a fairly good president (though not as good as he thinks he was)...back in the day. posted 04/16/2008 at 10:10:11
Colbert's show can be a minefield. She did well (and looked great--as Colbert mentioned trying, unsuccessfully, to flirt with her.) She's smart, funny, and obviously deeply loves and believes in her husband.

At one point, something brought back the memory of Hillary sitting with Bill for the uncomfortable "Gennifer Flowers" questions before he was president. Nice to feel that's not ever going to be an issue for the Obamas. posted 04/16/2008 at 03:29:51
It's certainly true he's not the man he was 10 years ago. The wit and charm are gone. Now, even though he's been successful in pursuing his goals (money), he's so angry and bitter.

Why, I don't know. Maybe medical, maybe not. posted 04/16/2008 at 03:23:52
Bill needs to tell Chelsea to stop wasting her time then. No point going to campuses filled with all those silly young'uns! posted 04/16/2008 at 03:18:36
It would be tough, no doubt. At the moment, it seems McCain is clearly worse (though not by as much as I thought 3 months ago).

Of course, if Hillary, Bill, Penn, Wolfson, Carville and the rest continue to campaign as they have--or worse--even McCain may start looking better by November..... posted 04/16/2008 at 03:10:00
So Obama is trashed for supposedly generalizing about small town PA.

Will Clinton be similarly trashed for generalizing about young people? (And is that anyone under...oh, 62?) He and McCain must have great conversations about, "All those young whippersnappers with their newfangled notions."

It's great to see a new generation getting interested and excited about politics and a candidate with great leadership skills and an inspiring message. Bill had some good qualities, but, no, he was never the candidate Barack Obama is. And I think it makes him angry.

For me, I can't wait till Bill and Hillary (and Carville) have to call Obama, "Mr. President". posted 04/16/2008 at 01:33:16
Yes, it's hard for Bill to understand this.

But some of us "older" voters (even ones who appreciated his presidency), now see through the Clintons like a glass windowpane.

Venal. Corrupt. Lying. And much angrier (but not about the RIGHT things--like GWB, the war authorization, the lies that this administration tells over and over). They lie so easily and seem to have no ideals or idealism left.

I think its because we were all supposed to fall down with delight at the "two-fer" and have Hillary's coronation long ago. We aren't. We didn't. And we won't. Even women that Hillary thinks should "all" support her. Even those over 50 that Bill thinks are only "wise" if they support her.

Some of us are watching closely and know better. We see right through you. Deal with it. posted 04/16/2008 at 01:26:15
Done.

Abusive. But worse. Stupid. posted 04/16/2008 at 01:19:10

Fox News Anchor's Son, Peter Doocy, Asks John McCain About Hillary's Drinking On Hardball College Tour

Some good questions asked. But still no one asking if there's collaboration on strategy between the Clinton and McCain campaigns.

Charlie Black. Mark Penn. Won't someone ask? posted 04/16/2008 at 03:40:28
I think you're right. She can't predict the college crowd at this event well enough to get Mark Penn to poll people well enough to advise her how best to pander.

"Authenticity" is out. And college students might ask some tough, unexpected, questions that the media never would. Why would she do it? Too many things could go wrong when she gets off-script. posted 04/16/2008 at 03:36:14

Clinton Superdel Contradicts Campaign: I Didn't Decide Over "Bitter" Remarks

Good points, but could we please never see the word "bittergate" again? I heard a journalist trying it out on MSNBC this morning.

Watergate was a serious crime. So called, "Travelgate" was a stupid effort by Republicans to make "something out of nothing".

"Bittergate" is a lie. Let's just put the whole "Mayhill Fowler Undercover Mission for Hillary" to rest. Does the press really hate to cover, you know, ISSUES that affect our lives and future?

That no scandals of the Bush years (and there have been so many of impeachment-level importance) have been labeled "-gate", show how pointless it is to use it for all these little campaign things. They're just not that important. posted 04/16/2008 at 10:38:09

The Real Feminist Thing To Do is Acknowledge Hillary's Failures as a Candidate and Move On

I'm a feminist and I definitely DON'T want an Obama/Clinton ticket. Those of us who don't support her, feel her positions as a senator (Iraq, Terry Schiavo, Kyl-Liberman, NAFTA, support for Bush...on and on) were either ill-chosen or purely opportunistic.

Many who don't want an Obama/Clinton ticket think her campaign has been badly managed---both the attacks on Obama (subtle and blatant) and the incompetent money management and infighting among her ("veteran!") staffers.

Obama doesn't need it. There are many better VPs around (Richardson, Webb, Warner, for example). And they don't come with Hillary's baggage (record on Iraq, lies through the years...Bill).

Obama will put together a great team. He should have carte blanche to do so. posted 04/16/2008 at 10:50:20

Obama: Hillary, McCain Using "Very Same Words" Against Me

Charlie Black. Mark Penn. Both head the same lobbying company. Friends. Top advisors for Clinton and McCain. Both making MILLIONS from ... the campaigns of Clinton and McCain.


Coincidence? Why won't someone find out?


Is Hillary just a Republican at heart? Or is her campaign actually COORDINATING strategy with McCains? posted 04/15/2008 at 15:33:54

Clinton Forced To Cut Speech Short Because Of Chatty Crowd

Yes, but some campaign "plant" would get the cash to attend, bring a tape recorder, and try to get the event misrepresented by the media after all. posted 04/16/2008 at 01:41:47
She also tries to imitate Reagan with the storytelling but misses the point (a message of hope, courage, optimism etc). I couldn't believe the health care story she told in a stump speech (laboriously) only to finally get to the punchline "...and then she died".

Since then I've noticed how many of her anecdotes show negative emotions--anger, death, futility when someone's tried to get government to work for them. It may or may not be true, but the point is....its not exactly great speechifying. Nor is she leading to some rousing point that we could rally behind to change it.

She needs to watch the Reagan tapes again. Her speeches could be called "Midnight in America". Grim. posted 04/16/2008 at 01:39:57

Frank: Trailing Democrat Should Drop Out

Frank can sometimes be a bit of a tool, but he makes a lot of good points here. June 3 is a good timetable for Hillary to adhere to (if not much sooner). And, yes, Obama had a good point but made it poorly (guns, religion, bitterness, etc).

Hopefully, he'll choose his words more carefully from now on (and, like Samantha Power, remember that everything he or surrogates say can show up on television). posted 04/15/2008 at 11:04:15

Obama: "Hope And Anger Go Hand And Hand"

Did Mayhill Fowler get to choose that Obama photo? posted 04/15/2008 at 10:58:44

Hillary Clinton To Appear On "Colbert Report"

Did she see Colbert at the WHCD? That was awesome.

Too bad he'll probably give her a pass, and she'll come across "charming" (or likeable enough) as she did on Stewart's show. All those body guards and security measures etc. will probably intimidate even Colbert

Darn. posted 04/15/2008 at 16:21:28

'Annie Oakley' Changes Her Tune

That's not just hypocrisy, not just Rovian. It's a tactic that's won an incompetent loser like Bush TWO terms.

I worry that Obama IS being swift-boated right now. He doesn't have the heart for the "down and dirty", I get it. But isn't that what surrogates are for? posted 04/15/2008 at 10:27:13
Oh, give Hillary a break! It's hard enough to coordinate and remember all of your OWN lies? She's got to keep track of Bill and Chelsea's, too! posted 04/15/2008 at 10:24:11
They were even plastic pins and balls, too. (Fitting, since Hillary is so fake). posted 04/15/2008 at 10:22:25
Yes, see CNN from noon on. I am. posted 04/15/2008 at 10:21:07
No. Just a Mark Penn focus group. posted 04/15/2008 at 10:19:21
It's well documented that Hillary's a hypocrite and a liar--on numerous issues.

And yet, even as we sit here, Obama is being "swift-boated". The Reps--with media complicity--managed to portray an American HERO as some kind of lying coward. This, while their own candidate was clearly AWOL during his cushy National Guard service (the only issue is "for how long"?) That was and incredible example of dirty tricks, Rove style.

And now, its happening again with Obama. He's clearly got the character, intelligence, compassion to be president. He clearly has more understanding of and will do more for "average and struggling" Americans than Billary, the $109,000,000 pro-NAFTA, pro-CAFTA, habitually lying corporate shills.

And yet...we're getting the anti-Obama message drummed in daily "elite", "bitter". Hillary and surrogates and complicitous press stay on message perfectly--attack, attack. Very Rovian.

And Obama IS being swift-boated by them. It might not destroy his campaign (yet), but clearly the pattern is being established.

He has a good-natured defense, but where are the surrogates with the (repetitious) counter-attack? posted 04/15/2008 at 10:17:42
And all because of the tv media. No one's ever asked "Who's Mayhill Fowler? Why did a 60 year old blogger, a woman who obviously dislikes Obama, pay $1000 to go to his event--armed with a tape recorder? Are we sure she's not being paid by someone (Republican or Democrat) for doing this?"

It seems very Rovian to me. And yet....if it had happened to Hillary, you know her surrogates would be hinting that Obama had some connection, was part of some "dirty tricks".

Why doesn't anyone ask this of Fowler? (And, same vein, why doesn't someone ask Hillary about Penn? DID he go to Colombia with her knowledge and approval? Why have an anti-union lobbyist as your top advisor?

And....are Hillary and McCain coordinating their campaign strategies in any way? Their two top advisors--Penn and Charlie Black--are heads of the same lobbying firm. They know each other well and are making MILLIONS from McCain / Clinton.

ARE the two campaigns coordinating strategies in any way? It often looks like it Why won't anyone at least ASK?

The media (tv) is acting like a PR firm for both McCain and Clinton. I don't get it. posted 04/15/2008 at 10:06:01

Obama: Clinton Using GOP Playbook

Of course she's using Rove.


Why aren't WE using Rove? (At least the chapter about staying on message, repetitively boring though it is. AND the chapter on having surrogates do the attack/defense part). Let's NOT be swift-boated by Hillary! posted 04/15/2008 at 15:36:53
I love this. But don't tell Dobbs. He's so invested in Hillary as the nominee. posted 04/14/2008 at 23:45:39
OF COURSE she's using the GOP playbook (Rove, to be exact)

But OBAMA shouldn't say it! Where's his Carville? (Well, only not sleazy).

Also, why not look into the REAL ties between Clinton and the GOP? Are Charlie Black (McCain) and Mark Penn ACTUALLY COORDINATING strategies between the two campaigns? It looks suspiciously like they could be.

Why. Won't. Someone. Ask? posted 04/14/2008 at 23:44:23

Clinton's Pennsylvania Lead: Is It Really 20 Points?

Because she panders ahead of the crowd! Last night at the Compassion Forum (where Hillary wasn't showing much), she started talking about the Pope "who is the greatest (something or other) and will be arriving next week which is so blahblahblah.... I didn't get it exactly, but I knew she had come prepared to "talk religion" and throw in....mention of Esther and emails from all her rabbi friends to woo the Jewish voteres in PA.....comments about the Pope to show her admiration for Catholicism....comments disparaging that (Muslim? not sure) infidel "my opponent" who is a liberal elitist who thinks people become Christians (or hunt) because of bitterness, not faith.

This is Hillary. Mark Penn tells her the PA demographic and what to say to it and....she does. What could Rove have done with this kind of candidate! posted 04/14/2008 at 23:57:38
Gergen's always pretty fair. He and Cafferty--and a guest commentator or two, here and there. The rest of CNN is just a waste of airspace. posted 04/14/2008 at 20:22:45
You know, Obama needs some more aggressive surrogates. There's no reason Hillary shouldn't be BEHIND by 20 pts. I know its her demographic to an extent, and there's a lot of name recognition and pol/hacks supporting her (like Rendell).

But why isn't someone making a bigger deal out of the tax returns? What is more "elitist" and "privileged" than donating hundreds of thousands of dollars to "charity" when the charity is....you?

What about Colombia? Penn's secret mission (no one asks if she knew and approved it. Or if it was ON HER BEHALF.). Her top strategist (a sleazy character if ever there was one) gets $300,000 from the Colombians. Her husband gets $800,000...For what? She lied about NAFTA. She lying about CAFTA. She lies. She clearly panders. Really, II don't trust ANYTHING she says.

And yet....its Rove 101, and she's at the top of her class. Rove taught Bush to "stay on message" (especially if it was attacking someone else). And he did. First with Ann Richards and then with McCain and all the rest.

Hillary has a message. She drums it home. In Ohio it was NAFTA / Canada (a lie, but...whatever). Over and Over. Now its "elitist" and "insulting". What's Obama's message? Hope, fixing the US, making it better.

That's very nice. I applaud his high mindedness. But Hillary's running as a Republican. This isn't the way to CAMPAIGN against a Republican, is it? Is it? posted 04/14/2008 at 20:19:54

Bill Clinton Claims To See Nonexistent "I'm Not Bitter" Signs

It's so cynical of the Clintons to make it seem like Obama feels people only turn to religion out of bitterness or anger.

He is clearly FAR more devout than either Bill or Hillary. He attends church regularly, but also prays regularly and clearly gives his religious beliefs and values much thought every day.

He knows religion can have deep value for people every day NOT just from anger. He lives it.

To twist his words into some anti-Christian sentiment is so duplicitious and sneaky. Oh, its Bill and Hillary. Never mind. posted 04/14/2008 at 18:26:41

Michelle Obama To Go On The Colbert Report

Go on a show where people are stupid.

Yeah, there's a challenge. posted 04/14/2008 at 20:08:51
If Elton John wanted to see misogynists, he should read some of the comments from Hillary supporters here about Michelle. I haven't seen much hating on Hillary for her looks. About Michelle, that seems the name of the game. I guess these Clinton supporters just don't have the smarts to actually criticize her for something REAL. posted 04/14/2008 at 20:08:14
I hope she's watched A LOT of this show. Pelosi has forbidden Dem. representatives from doing it any more. (Republicans rarely would anyway).

Colbert is witty, but since he plays an egomaniac "character" with subtle malevolence (when interviewing politicians at least), he is far more dangerous than Russert or Wallace. Because, although he's not conservative, he won't protect the guests like Stewart does. He'll say or do ANYTHING if it might be funny and its a RARE guest that comes across well. posted 04/14/2008 at 18:16:41
Oh, Michelle. Why don't you listen to Pelosi on this one? Great as he is, for Democrats to talk to Colbert is ALWAYS a mistake (ask Barney Frank. Or the representative Colbert got to say he likes cocaine, even though he doesn't)

Jon Stewart. He's the softball guy. He's the nice one for politicians.

But...if you MUST be interviewed by Colbert, just remember "Don't try to be funny!" Let him be the funny one. Really. Trust me.

Oh, what a minefield you will be treading Tuesday night. What were you thinking? posted 04/14/2008 at 18:09:23

Clinton Heckled, Obama Cheered Over 'Bitter' Remarks

Well, if she doesn't win it certainly won't be Lou Dobbs fault. He just had a panel to "discuss" the results of a new poll he cited showing Hilary up 20 pts in PA. Someone (Ben Smith?) pointed out that another poll shows them even. And another panelist suggested it would be better to wait until after the debate for something more "reliable"

Dobbs (the tool that he is) wasn't having any of it. The "discussion" needed to show Obama was on the ropes, Hillary is going to win in PA....and that's that!

For the 4 minutes I could stand to watch, I thought Dobbs was auditioning for the part of John McLaughlin! He certainly is a bombastic, uninquisitive bore. Insufferable. posted 04/14/2008 at 19:54:51
Why won't anyone ask about the connection between Mark Penn and Charlie Black? They're friends, and business partners in the lobbying company that is making them MILLIONS from, respectively, the Clinton and McCain campaigns.

Top strategic advisors to Clinton and McCain who are business partners in the private sector? And that "business" is government lobbying? And they're, together, making MILLIONS from McCain and Clinton (as well as laying groundwork for lobbying business "to come" if Hillary OR McCain gets elected).

Why won't ANYONE ask the obvious? "Is There ANY Coordinated Strategy Between the McCain and Clinton Camps?" Even if Hillary and McCain lie about it, I would love to see them on record.

Because it seems all too obvious from the Black / Penn connection cinbined with a clear strategy that Obama is the target of both of them....a coordinated campaign seems very likely (and would explain why Hillary talks more and more like a Republican every day). posted 04/14/2008 at 18:05:18

John McCain Should Go on Vacation, Hillary Clinton is Doing His Job for Him

You make a lot of ridiculous assumptions in this post. I would wager, without question, that Obama attends church FAR more often than Hillary or McCain....combined. posted 04/15/2008 at 16:17:09
Gore DID fight. But then....The conservative majority on the Supreme Court stopped the vote count and gave the election to Bush.

Let's not rewrite history. And also...he won. posted 04/15/2008 at 16:14:43
What about her top advisor, anti-union lobbyist (and multi-millionaire) Mark Penn? And his counterpart (and partner) in McCain's campaign, Charlie Black?

Think those two are classy?

"Well run?" Maybe you should ask the small businesses she's stiffed and the small donors whose money she's squandered (and then had to have BILL come in to go through the books!)

Read Carl Bernsteins post here about seeing how Hillary will govern, based on how she campaigns. He says it all. posted 04/15/2008 at 16:13:14
Didn't Fowler have to pay $1000 to pose as a donor at the supporter event?

Did someone associated with one of the other campaigns pay for her to do this? Was she REALLY a plant (not just a Hillary supporter trying to make trouble for Obama)?

I think someone needs to look into this more. Personally, it's very Rovian. I smell a rat. posted 04/15/2008 at 16:04:26
No, with so much of the media in the tank for Clinton, the anti-Hillary bitterness would be much worse without Huffpo.

Plus, there's still some accountability for the Clintons here--even if CNN etc. chooses to ignore what they're doing. posted 04/15/2008 at 11:15:11
Yes. The media has a crucial role in the success of swift-boating. posted 04/15/2008 at 10:57:47
Two years ago she was -still- a virtual non-presence against the war. And still had complimentary thing to say about George Bush. She had already established a track record for pandering (Terry Schiavo, flag burning, choosing the Iraq war authorization over the Levin Amendment...on and on)

Now? She's just worse, because unfortunately we have to see and her about her daily. posted 04/15/2008 at 10:56:10
Dobbs is about as "independent" as Karl Rove. posted 04/15/2008 at 10:53:06
True. And CNN kept touting it as "from the liberal blog, Huffington Post" as if "even" liberals were seeing the truth about Obama.

It was a hit piece, and lots of questions remain about Fowler's motives, at least in my mind. I also wonder if she's ever been contacted by Republicans or Hillary campaign--in other words, did she go there (misrepresenting herself) just as a curious Hillary supporter?

Or was she a campaign plant? The tactics seem very Rovian (and the unquestioning acceptance of her as a real journalist by the tv media would be pretty funny--if it wasn't so sad). posted 04/15/2008 at 10:51:49
Leahy gets credit for telling her to quit. I'm just disappointed that he got smacked down for it. Obama didn't have to support him, but dozens of other party leaders should have publicly done so. posted 04/15/2008 at 10:45:31
Doesn't it bother you that the McCain and Clinton campaigns are being run by the same team--Charlie Black and Mark Penn are Chairman and CEO of the same lobbying firm and are making millions from their two candidates.

Someone tell me that Hillary's Rovian attacks on Obama (and softballs for McCain) are just coincidence. posted 04/15/2008 at 10:43:24
Great post, underlining both Hillary's hypocrisy and pandering---AND how her strategy seems so Rovian. (And Mark Penn's still there, too, just lying low).

You mention the smearing of Kerry, through the swift-boat lies, with the complicity of the media. I worry that Hillary, her surrogates, and a complicitous media, are "swift-boating" Obama.

Was Mayhill Fowler just a Huffpo blogger? I'd like to know if she was paid by any campaign, PAC, etc. for misrepresenting herself (tape recorder in hand) at a closed event for Obama supporters. Not saying she was--but, it seems odd.

And Charlie Black...Mark Penn--partners in a top lobbying firm, both top advisors to McCain & Clinton. I'd like someone to ASK if there's ANY coordination going on between the two campaigns.

Hillary really DOES seem to be using the Rove playbook and doing the job for McCain. He criticizes Obama far more than Hillary.

Is this coordinated at all by Penn and Black or their assistants? Black and Penn are making MILLIONS from these two candidates.

Is it just a strange coincidence--the Penn / Black connection and the kind of attacks we're seeing from Clinton? posted 04/15/2008 at 10:39:51

Carville Still Proud Of His "Judas" Line

He'd have to become a liberal first. posted 04/14/2008 at 02:41:55

Watch: Obama On Annie Oakley

He did. "By the way, Gore won." And then went on to praise the work he's done.

Clinton saying Gore and Kerry lost because they were elitist. That is pure talking point (like "I was the first First Lady to go into a war zone." repeated just Friday by Bill, even though its false."

Rove, Rove, and more Rove. Just tell lies and trust that the public won't be listening when the truth comes out. But smacking down Gore and Kerry? (And giving GWB and "his" SC tricks a pass? She gets worse by the day). posted 04/14/2008 at 00:06:23

Compassion Forum On CNN: Clinton, Obama Square Off

I would bet it was a room mostly full of middle class people who had to make some sacrifices in order to give $2300. Fowler had no way to know WHAT all those people's income level was.

But the way the MSM embraced the work of someone with no journalistic credentials or objectivity (and a clear pro-Hillary or McCain agenda) was very enlightening. posted 04/14/2008 at 10:30:55

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