The Windy City is clearly the place to be again with Barack and Michelle Obama about to move into 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in January of 2009.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Fanatical Minority Seeks to Overturn Election
A small and obnoxious minority of disgruntled voters, unable to legitimately win at the ballot box on Election Day, are now trying to sue to prevent President-elect Obama's inauguration on the grounds that he is not a natural born U.S. citizen.
This carries sour grapes to a ridiculous extreme.
This carries sour grapes to a ridiculous extreme.
Goldmans Finally See "Justice"
Over the shouting and heckling of pro-Simpson supporters, Fred Goldman and Kim Goldman, the father and sister of the late Ron Goldman, whom Simpson was accused of killing along with his wife Nicole 14 years ago, spoke to the press following Simpson's being sentenced to 15 years in prison for a Las Vegas crime today. Firm in their beliefs, the Goldmans asserted that Simpson had finally met justice for the criminal that he is.
Simpson Sentenced to Prison
O.J. Simpson is sentenced to 15 years in prison for crimes he committed at a Las
Vegas hotel in 2007.
.
Vegas hotel in 2007.
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Arianna Huffington Says Obama Unique in Use of Technology
Commentator and blogger Arianna Huffington praises Barack Obama for being the first 21st Century techno-savvy President-elect in American history.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
"Rahmbo" Earns High Marks
Friend and Foe alike concede that the tough -minded Chief-of-Staff to be has the right balance of toughness and sincerity.
Obama and Clinton Forge Powerful Alliance
For the good of the nation and its future interactions with countries around the world, President-elect Obama and Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton engaged in successful negotiations for Clinton's joining of the Cabinet.
Richardson Thanks Obama For Opportunity
New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson thanks the President-elect for the opportunity to serve our country, as he accepts Mr. Obama's nomination to be U.S. Commerce Secretary.
A Clarion Call to Action
Discussing the recent work of the WMD Commission, which he co-chaired, Former Florida Democratic U.S. Senator Bob Graham issued a clarion call to action, telling the nation that the Commission's investigation revealed that despite worldwide efforts, a terrorist organization will likely use a Biological Weapon of Mass Destruction (WMD) somewhere in the world, most likely by the end of 2013.
While acknowledging the seriousness of the threats the world faces, Senator Graham asserted that there is much that can be done by world leaders to disrupt the terrorist radicals who seek to kill innocent people, and that the world's democracies continue to lead the way in the fight against evil.
While acknowledging the seriousness of the threats the world faces, Senator Graham asserted that there is much that can be done by world leaders to disrupt the terrorist radicals who seek to kill innocent people, and that the world's democracies continue to lead the way in the fight against evil.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Commerce Secretary to be Named
President-elect Obama is slated to announce later today that New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, one of his former primary rivals, is his choice to be the next U.S. Secretary of Commerce.
As a Governor, former U.S. Congressman, former U.N. Ambassador, and former Energy Secretary, Richardson has the breadth and depth of varied experience necessary to succeed in this role. A fine choice.
As a Governor, former U.S. Congressman, former U.N. Ambassador, and former Energy Secretary, Richardson has the breadth and depth of varied experience necessary to succeed in this role. A fine choice.
Biden's Role Will Be As Key Advisor
Joe Biden, the Vice-President-elect, will serve several valuable roles for President-elect Obama: Senior Advisor, Foreign Policy guru, and Capitol Hill dealmaker and bridgebuilder, to name a few.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Mumbai and Its Citizens A Testament To India's Resilience and Bravery
Still reeling from the devastating terrorist bombings recently inflicted upon them, the citizens of Mumbai, India's financial nerve center, are beginning to get back on their feet, showing that while they will never forget, they will not allow terrorists and their minions to cripple India's potential or its unyielding spirit.
Biden Reaches Out to Nation's Governors
Vice-President-elect Joe Biden and President-elect Barack Obama held a strategy meeting with many of the nation's Governors, of both parties, to begin the process of greater cooperation between the federal government and the individual states, a relationship that has long been neglected by the Bush Administration, and that is in need of a new era of renewal if America is to reinvigorate itself from the inside in these challenging times.
A Healthy Clash of Ideas
As Bill Schneider makes clear in the attached special report, the team of Obama-Biden is assembling a high-intensity Cabinet filled with people from different parts of the political spectrum who are not afraid to speak their minds. It is through this interplay of intellects, egos, and persuasive powers that the new President will receive the best information to move the country forward in the years ahead.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Chatting with Rivals is Positive
By inviting former Democratic primary rivals Hillary Clinton and Bill Richardson to discuss the Secretary of State job and former opponent John McCain to discuss reaching bipartisan cooperation for moving the country forward, President-elect Obama has shown a willingness to move beyond the tired, divisive political rhetoric of the past.
All Americans should be proud of his efforts in this regard.
All Americans should be proud of his efforts in this regard.
Groundbreaking Attorney General Choice
Early reports cite Obama transition sources as saying that the President-elect's choice for Attorney General is former Deputy Attorney General Eric Holder.
If true, and if confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Holder, who served in the Clinton Administration, would become the first African-American in U.S. History to run the Justice Department. Barack Obama continues to break barriers.
If true, and if confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Holder, who served in the Clinton Administration, would become the first African-American in U.S. History to run the Justice Department. Barack Obama continues to break barriers.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
O Come, O Come Emanuel
The swift decision by President-elect Barack Obama to name Illinois Congressman Rahm Emanuel as his White House Chief of Staff brings into the West Wing a true Democratic loyalist who has Obama's ear on the major policy issues of our day. With former experience in the Clinton White House, the investment banking world, and Congress, he has seen both the best and the worst of the political and financial worlds, and what the inner workings of Congress and the Executive Branch are.
He is also not afraid of building bridges with the other side of the aisle, a task which Obama must achieve for everyone's sake. And, if worst comes to worst, he is also not afraid of a fight. He knows how to take punches, and how to throw them. He is a man who will help Obama get things done.
He is also not afraid of building bridges with the other side of the aisle, a task which Obama must achieve for everyone's sake. And, if worst comes to worst, he is also not afraid of a fight. He knows how to take punches, and how to throw them. He is a man who will help Obama get things done.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Amazing Times
A Landslide Victory For Senator Barack Obama and Senator Joe Biden!
The Obama-Biden Era is about to begin.
Bravo Gentlemen!
The Obama-Biden Era is about to begin.
Bravo Gentlemen!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
A Final Election 2008 Word
My final thoughts as this election day gets underway:
John McCain- a good and decent man, whose policy proposals are just ill-suited for this time in our history.
Sarah Palin- a political lightweight with very little knowledge of national or international affairs, who is a true liability without her cue cards and talking points. A 2012 candidacy? A legion of Republicans with greater experience and more to offer will line up around the block for a chance to clean her clock in the primaries. You want to be President? A word of advice-study, study, STUDY!
Joe Biden- a fine public servant with the knowledge and experience to step in as President should the need arise. A man of middle-class roots who never forgot where he came from. A man who will be a fine Vice-President.
Barack Obama- an example of one of those rare talents, a rare leader who comes along in history only every so often to steer the ship of state away from the rocks of despair, dissent, and disarray. He has already changed American History, win or lose.
My prediction- Senator Barack Obama and Senator Joe Biden will be the next President and Vice-President of the United States of America.
John McCain- a good and decent man, whose policy proposals are just ill-suited for this time in our history.
Sarah Palin- a political lightweight with very little knowledge of national or international affairs, who is a true liability without her cue cards and talking points. A 2012 candidacy? A legion of Republicans with greater experience and more to offer will line up around the block for a chance to clean her clock in the primaries. You want to be President? A word of advice-study, study, STUDY!
Joe Biden- a fine public servant with the knowledge and experience to step in as President should the need arise. A man of middle-class roots who never forgot where he came from. A man who will be a fine Vice-President.
Barack Obama- an example of one of those rare talents, a rare leader who comes along in history only every so often to steer the ship of state away from the rocks of despair, dissent, and disarray. He has already changed American History, win or lose.
My prediction- Senator Barack Obama and Senator Joe Biden will be the next President and Vice-President of the United States of America.
Obama Should Channel Legacy of Both Roosevelts
If he is elected President, Senator Barack Obama should seek to govern effectively by combining the strengths of Theodore Roosevelt, a Progressive Republican, with those of his cousin, Franklin Roosevelt, a liberal Democrat.
Like Theodore Roosevelt, Obama should seek to become "the man in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood," who fights with the certainty that, even if he fails, "his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory, nor defeat." In other words, TR said, "Get in the fight for what you believe in, don't be afraid to challenge the status quo thinking, and seek to make a difference without fear of failure!" Added to this should be a good dose of FDR, who as a successfull New York governor and President was a man who was not afraid of being labeled a politician. Franklin Roosevelt never shied away from his outspoken love of his political party, and he eventually redefined the meaning of partisan governance with his New Deal. While Obama talks of transforming our politics, he must also be willing to master the art of transactional politics, i.e. the ability to actually negotiate proposals and policy ideas with the Congress, which could very well have large Democratic majorities in both the House and the Senate after tonight's election results.
If he is elected President of the United States tonight, Barack Obama should combine the political savvy and strategy of Franklin Roosevelt with the political courage and rhetoric of Theodore Roosevelt. By uniting the best of Progressivism and Liberalism, a President Obama could fundamentally strengthen this country against its enemies, and fundamentally reform this country's priorities right here at home.
Like Theodore Roosevelt, Obama should seek to become "the man in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood," who fights with the certainty that, even if he fails, "his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory, nor defeat." In other words, TR said, "Get in the fight for what you believe in, don't be afraid to challenge the status quo thinking, and seek to make a difference without fear of failure!" Added to this should be a good dose of FDR, who as a successfull New York governor and President was a man who was not afraid of being labeled a politician. Franklin Roosevelt never shied away from his outspoken love of his political party, and he eventually redefined the meaning of partisan governance with his New Deal. While Obama talks of transforming our politics, he must also be willing to master the art of transactional politics, i.e. the ability to actually negotiate proposals and policy ideas with the Congress, which could very well have large Democratic majorities in both the House and the Senate after tonight's election results.
If he is elected President of the United States tonight, Barack Obama should combine the political savvy and strategy of Franklin Roosevelt with the political courage and rhetoric of Theodore Roosevelt. By uniting the best of Progressivism and Liberalism, a President Obama could fundamentally strengthen this country against its enemies, and fundamentally reform this country's priorities right here at home.
A Progressive Revival?
If Barack Obama wins the Presidency tonight, he will have a fundamental governing choice-to govern "smart left" or "dumb left."
If he moves to the "smart left" next year, he can rewrite the American Social Contract, i.e. he can reinvigorate and reestablish the moral obligations that government has to its citizens on the economy, energy, health care, education, and national defense-all areas that have been blatantly abused or ignored under the Bush Administration.
If he moves to the "dumb left" next year, however, with capitulation to interest groups and special interests, coupled with rookie stupidity and ridiculous blunders in the area of foreign policy, he will resurrect the image of Democrats as poor on defense issues and as slaves of pressure groups with no new workable ideas.
Historian Arthur Schlesinger, Jr. once enunciated a theory of historical cycles, and that theory is still valuable today. In it, he postulated that major political philosophical shifts occur roughly every 30 years in American History. We moved in this country from the Progressive era at the dawn of the 20th Century to the laissez-faire 1920s to the New Deal to the Reagan Revolution. The modern conservative political era can be said to have started in 1978 when U.S. Congressman William Steiger won approval for a legislative proposal that cut capital gains taxes from 50 percent to 25 percent. If Schlesinger's cyclical theory holds true, we are due for a shift to a progressive political period, because 2008 is exactly 30 years later.
If he is the winner, Barack Obama will have to demonstrate the temperment and nimble dexterity he has exhibited in his campaign if he is to govern effectively from the "smart left". If he fails to do so, the country will once again embrace the center-right politics of the Reagan-Bush I years. If he does govern from the "smart left" by enacting a few positive, big ideas next year, he will have a real opportunity to take America to a new place of policy and solution-oriented governance based on new philosophical paradigms of a progressive nature.
A progressive revival? Perhaps.
If he moves to the "smart left" next year, he can rewrite the American Social Contract, i.e. he can reinvigorate and reestablish the moral obligations that government has to its citizens on the economy, energy, health care, education, and national defense-all areas that have been blatantly abused or ignored under the Bush Administration.
If he moves to the "dumb left" next year, however, with capitulation to interest groups and special interests, coupled with rookie stupidity and ridiculous blunders in the area of foreign policy, he will resurrect the image of Democrats as poor on defense issues and as slaves of pressure groups with no new workable ideas.
Historian Arthur Schlesinger, Jr. once enunciated a theory of historical cycles, and that theory is still valuable today. In it, he postulated that major political philosophical shifts occur roughly every 30 years in American History. We moved in this country from the Progressive era at the dawn of the 20th Century to the laissez-faire 1920s to the New Deal to the Reagan Revolution. The modern conservative political era can be said to have started in 1978 when U.S. Congressman William Steiger won approval for a legislative proposal that cut capital gains taxes from 50 percent to 25 percent. If Schlesinger's cyclical theory holds true, we are due for a shift to a progressive political period, because 2008 is exactly 30 years later.
If he is the winner, Barack Obama will have to demonstrate the temperment and nimble dexterity he has exhibited in his campaign if he is to govern effectively from the "smart left". If he fails to do so, the country will once again embrace the center-right politics of the Reagan-Bush I years. If he does govern from the "smart left" by enacting a few positive, big ideas next year, he will have a real opportunity to take America to a new place of policy and solution-oriented governance based on new philosophical paradigms of a progressive nature.
A progressive revival? Perhaps.
An Election Where Anything Is Possible
As the voters make their voices heard today, it is important to keep in mind past trends:
1) Five states in the deep South voted for Barry Goldwater, the conservative Republican in 1964, the first time they had voted Republican since Reconstruction.
Those states were Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, and South Carolina. In 1968, those five voted for third party candidate George Wallace, and in 1972, they voted for Richard Nixon. In 1976, they voted for Democrat Jimmy Carter of Georgia.
Since then, however, only two of those five have voted Democratic at the presidential level-Georgia for Bill Clinton in 1992, and Louisiana for Bill Clinton in both 1992 and 1996.
2) Mississippi hasn't elected a Democrat to the U.S. Senate in the last 61 years.
That man was John Stennis, in 1947. Democratic Gov. Ronnie Musgrove has a chance of unseating the Republican Senate incumbent, Roger Wicker, albeit a slim chance.
3) Seven states with 60 electoral votes have voted Democratic only once since 1964: Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Barack Obama has a chance to carry either Colorado, North Carolina, or both. That would be a political shockwave.
4) Eleven states with 63 electoral votes have not voted Democratic at all since 1964: Alaska, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, Virginia, and Wyoming. As this election begins, Barack Obama is currently competitive in both Virginia and Indiana, which Pres. Bush carried in 2004 by margins of 8.2 and 20.7 percentage points, respectively.
Clearly, in this election season, the only guarantee is that nothing is guaranteed.
1) Five states in the deep South voted for Barry Goldwater, the conservative Republican in 1964, the first time they had voted Republican since Reconstruction.
Those states were Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, and South Carolina. In 1968, those five voted for third party candidate George Wallace, and in 1972, they voted for Richard Nixon. In 1976, they voted for Democrat Jimmy Carter of Georgia.
Since then, however, only two of those five have voted Democratic at the presidential level-Georgia for Bill Clinton in 1992, and Louisiana for Bill Clinton in both 1992 and 1996.
2) Mississippi hasn't elected a Democrat to the U.S. Senate in the last 61 years.
That man was John Stennis, in 1947. Democratic Gov. Ronnie Musgrove has a chance of unseating the Republican Senate incumbent, Roger Wicker, albeit a slim chance.
3) Seven states with 60 electoral votes have voted Democratic only once since 1964: Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Barack Obama has a chance to carry either Colorado, North Carolina, or both. That would be a political shockwave.
4) Eleven states with 63 electoral votes have not voted Democratic at all since 1964: Alaska, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, Virginia, and Wyoming. As this election begins, Barack Obama is currently competitive in both Virginia and Indiana, which Pres. Bush carried in 2004 by margins of 8.2 and 20.7 percentage points, respectively.
Clearly, in this election season, the only guarantee is that nothing is guaranteed.
U.S. Senate Predictions
My predictions for U.S. Senate results tonight:
Georgia: either a Runoff between Saxby Chambliss the Republican and Jim Martin the Democrat, or a Jim Martin victory.
Maine: Victory for the incumbent Republican, Susan Collins.
Virginia: Victory for the Democrat Mark Warner.
North Carolina: Victory for the Democrat Kay Hagen.
Nebraska: Victory for the Republican Mike Johanns.
Alaska: Victory for the Democrat Mark Begich.
Minnesota: Could go either way, but I expect a victory for Democrat Al Franken.
New Hampshire: I expect a victory for Democrat Jeanne Shaheen.
Colorado: A victory for Democrat Mark Udall.
New Mexico: A victory for Democrat Tom Udall.
Idaho: Victory for Republican Jim Bryse.
Louisiana: Victory for Republican John Kennedy
Good Luck to all the candidates.
Georgia: either a Runoff between Saxby Chambliss the Republican and Jim Martin the Democrat, or a Jim Martin victory.
Maine: Victory for the incumbent Republican, Susan Collins.
Virginia: Victory for the Democrat Mark Warner.
North Carolina: Victory for the Democrat Kay Hagen.
Nebraska: Victory for the Republican Mike Johanns.
Alaska: Victory for the Democrat Mark Begich.
Minnesota: Could go either way, but I expect a victory for Democrat Al Franken.
New Hampshire: I expect a victory for Democrat Jeanne Shaheen.
Colorado: A victory for Democrat Mark Udall.
New Mexico: A victory for Democrat Tom Udall.
Idaho: Victory for Republican Jim Bryse.
Louisiana: Victory for Republican John Kennedy
Good Luck to all the candidates.
Senator Obama Campaigns Ardently in Battleground Cities of Jacksonville, Charlotte, and Manassas
As the last lap approached, Senator Obama closed out his 2008 campaigning in the Bush-Backing Cities of Jacksonville, Florida, Charlotte, NC, and Manassas, VA.
Palin Makes Her Case
As polls prepared for Election Day 2008, Governor Sarah Palin campaigned in Reno, Nevada, another battleground state, telling voters that she can't wait to get to work.
Senator McCain Urges Indiana To Rise Up
Senator John McCain urged Indiana voters to help him continue to serve America as President of the United States, by turning out and voting, and by urging others they know to do so.
Senator Biden Makes Final Push
As America prepared to go to the polls on Election Day 2008, Senator Joe Biden made his final appeal to the voters in Philadelphia, PA in this key battleground state that holds 21 electoral votes.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
America Needs A Compass In the White House, Not A Weathervane
The U.S. President needs to have a sense of what he believes, and should know when a policy is failing or succeeding. If a success, then be consistent. If a failure, modify and revise the policy accordingly. The next President must not ignore reality as President George W. Bush has consistently done, nor should he change messages and stances on issues so much that people are left wondering who the man is.
A middle ground must be found between these two extremes.
The Republican presidential candidate has had difficulty with consistent, clear policies and messages for a very long time, despite his wartime heroism.
A middle ground must be found between these two extremes.
The Republican presidential candidate has had difficulty with consistent, clear policies and messages for a very long time, despite his wartime heroism.
Joe Biden Rallies Supporters in Missouri
In the crucial swing state of Missouri, a true indicator of middle America's hopes, dreams, and frustrations, Senator Joe Biden fired up supporters, urging them to see the difference between the two presidential tickets as Election Day 2008 draws near.
As Finish Line Approaches, Palin Still Provokes Emotion on Both Sides
As this recent roundtable exchange demonstrates, Sarah Palin remains both a positive and negative lightning rod as Election Day 2008 draws ever closer.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Senate a Potential Bonanza For Democrats
In this volatile 2008 election season, the Democratic Party could potentially pick up nine U.S. Senate seats, a majority that could help with effective governance over the next four years.
Christopher Buckley Endorses Barack Obama
Christopher Buckley, conservative political commentator and writer, the son of National Review magazine founder and late conservative icon, William F. Buckley, Jr., broke ranks with the conservative circles of his family roots to publicly endorse Barack Obama, as he states in conversation with Chris Matthews.
Michelle Obama Strong Surrogate For Her Husband
As Senator Obama visits his ailing grandmother in Hawaii, Mrs. Obama shows she can crystallize the issues in a way people can understand.
Larry King and Bill Maher Analyze Fundamentals
Recently, Larry King the commentator and Bill Maher the comedian exhibited the kind of analysis that America's voters must go through to successfully participate in the 2008 voting process.
Scott McClellan Endorses Barack Obama
Another former Bush partisan, former White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan, publicly declares his support for Barack Obama. Thanks to the President of the United States for supplying yet another Obama backer.
States Gearing Up For Election Day Battle
As Philadelphia, PA Mayor Michael Nutter's discussion with his city's Obama campaign forces illustrates, the Obama campaign is not underestimating the power of the McCain-Palin message. They will continue to work tirelessly to achieve success.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Palin Runs Off At The Mouth in Nonsensical Ways
While Joe Biden has committed verbal gaffes throughout his career, he has not irresponsibly advocated divisiveness in this great land, as the Republican Governor of Alaska did recently.
Maverick Tagline Is Old, Tired, and Inaccurate
As the McCain-Palin ticket continues to tout the maverick label with little or no attention to detail or policy substance, it is important to remember the level of maverick attention exhibited over the years by John McCain.
Obama Strikes Back Against Palin
As the presidential race moves toward the finish line, Senator Obama continues to prove that he will not allow the increasingly nasty smear tactics of the McCain-Palin ticket to go unanswered.
Former President Campaigns with Vigor
Former President Bill Clinton demonstrated the unity of the Democratic Party in pursuit of victory, as he campaigned for the Obama/Biden ticket in Nevada.
Albright Stresses Obama Has the Judgment and Temperment For Presidency
Former U.N. Ambassador and Secretary of State Dr. Madeleine Albright adds her support and expertise to Senator Obama's candidacy, echoing General Colin Powell.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Powell Endorsement No Small Thing
The endorsement this morning of Barack Obama by Former General, Secretary of State, Joint Chiefs Chairman, and National Security Advisor Colin Powell is not only disappointing for John McCain, but further invigorating for Senator Obama, who can draw on Powell's steady advice and experience to supplement Obama's already vast list of foreign policy advisors.
Colin Powell is a prominent, life-long Republican with impeccable foreign policy credentials, whose own war hero/veteran status and keen policy insights will only help to strengthen the presidential campaign of Obama/Biden.
Colin Powell is a prominent, life-long Republican with impeccable foreign policy credentials, whose own war hero/veteran status and keen policy insights will only help to strengthen the presidential campaign of Obama/Biden.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Third and Final Debate Displayed Contrast
In their final debate encounter of this election season, John McCain and Barack Obama
displayed the essential difference between them that trumps all others: John McCain's feeble attempt to get "tough" showed him to be an angry, condescending, bitter, erratic man short on details and long on attacks, in contrast to a steady, cool, balanced performance by Obama. Obama spoke to Americans about proposals and plans, while McCain wanted so desperately to knock Obama off stride, that his erratic and borderline goofy behavior-interrupting, cutting Obama off, squinting and grinning ridiculously, fidgeting relentlessly, and walking off stage immediately after the debate with his tongue stuck out like an immature adolescent(caught on film)-showed a complete lack of steadiness and a bizarre temperament that do not belong in the White House. His military heroism alone does not entitle him to coronation as President of the United States. Ideas matter, and understanding problems matters. Judgment matters. His ideas lack depth and detail, his understanding of the real problems facing this nation beyond war remains to be seen after three debates, and his judgment in picking Sarah Palin over Mitt Romney, Tom Ridge, or Tim Pawlenty remains the epitome of pandering, irresponsible recklessness.
The pathway forward for America does not lead through Arizona, no matter how delusional some may wish to be.
displayed the essential difference between them that trumps all others: John McCain's feeble attempt to get "tough" showed him to be an angry, condescending, bitter, erratic man short on details and long on attacks, in contrast to a steady, cool, balanced performance by Obama. Obama spoke to Americans about proposals and plans, while McCain wanted so desperately to knock Obama off stride, that his erratic and borderline goofy behavior-interrupting, cutting Obama off, squinting and grinning ridiculously, fidgeting relentlessly, and walking off stage immediately after the debate with his tongue stuck out like an immature adolescent(caught on film)-showed a complete lack of steadiness and a bizarre temperament that do not belong in the White House. His military heroism alone does not entitle him to coronation as President of the United States. Ideas matter, and understanding problems matters. Judgment matters. His ideas lack depth and detail, his understanding of the real problems facing this nation beyond war remains to be seen after three debates, and his judgment in picking Sarah Palin over Mitt Romney, Tom Ridge, or Tim Pawlenty remains the epitome of pandering, irresponsible recklessness.
The pathway forward for America does not lead through Arizona, no matter how delusional some may wish to be.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Class Discussions on The Senate and The Judiciary Will Continue Monday, October 20, 2008
To all my Fall 2008 students:
Due to Fall Break being scheduled for today and tomorrow, we will not meet again until Monday, October 20, 2008.
Please read the chapters on the Congress and the Judiciary for next week.
Spread the word to other classmates.
I look forward to seeing you on the 20th of October.
Due to Fall Break being scheduled for today and tomorrow, we will not meet again until Monday, October 20, 2008.
Please read the chapters on the Congress and the Judiciary for next week.
Spread the word to other classmates.
I look forward to seeing you on the 20th of October.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
McCain's Policy Shuffle
In the second presidential debate at Belmont University, Senator McCain has now proposed buying up all bad mortgages across the country.
A true small government conservative? Ronald Reagan Part 2?
I think not.
A true small government conservative? Ronald Reagan Part 2?
I think not.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
V.P. Debate Informative
Joe Biden and Sarah Palin gave us a respectful, informative, and insightful debate on Thursday night.
We should all be proud that this American debate worked for the American voter.
Bravo!
We should all be proud that this American debate worked for the American voter.
Bravo!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Vice-Presidential Contenders To Discuss the Future Tonight
At Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri later this evening, Governor Sarah Palin and Senator Joe Biden will debate the future of the country, and how best to move the United States forward.
America deserves a respectful, thorough, comprehensive discussion of what is at stake in this volatile election year.
Regardless of the outcome, Palin and Biden will do the country and its people a great service if they deliver that.
America deserves a respectful, thorough, comprehensive discussion of what is at stake in this volatile election year.
Regardless of the outcome, Palin and Biden will do the country and its people a great service if they deliver that.
Our Leaders Must Be Informed, and Must Want To Be
All those who aspire to public service have a moral and ethical obligation to stay current on the state of affairs both nationally and internationally. They must exhibit an insatiable curiosity about the world. Only then can they hope to lead this great, diverse nation in challenging times.
Constitution Must Be Protected From Strict Constructionist Foolishness
We live in the modern world. I respect the wisdom of the Founding Fathers enough that they foresaw that the America of the future would be vastly different from their own. While our core democratic principles are unshakeable, and our ideals are the embodiment of our very best hopes, the Constitution must be more than simply the words on the page from 1787. It is the framework of our government, and that framework is solid. The flesh on those bones of government laid out by the Founders is embodied in the elasticity of the many clauses they themselves drafted, clauses that are deliberately vague and nebulous. Why? To allow for evolving interpretation to cope with an ever-changing world. The Vice-President of the United States must understand that in order to best serve the President and the country.
McCain A Recipe For More of the Same
John McCain continues to echo the same failed policies of the past. It is time to call him on it-again and again.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Debate #1 Refreshing For Americans
The American people saw a truly detailed debate last night between this year's presidential candidates, and we are all better off because of it.
John McCain showed that he still has some detail left in him, and Barack Obama showed that he is certainly capable enough to stand on the stage at this level.
Regardless of the outcome, American voters should be grateful for a look into this critical process.
It is a commentary on why we still remain the greatest democracy on the face of the earth.
John McCain showed that he still has some detail left in him, and Barack Obama showed that he is certainly capable enough to stand on the stage at this level.
Regardless of the outcome, American voters should be grateful for a look into this critical process.
It is a commentary on why we still remain the greatest democracy on the face of the earth.
Senator Kennedy Returns Home
Senator Kennedy returned home from the hospital last night after a mild seizure caused by an adjustment in his medication. All Americans, regardless of their political views, send their wishes to the Lion of the Senate, as he fights his illness.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Sarah Palin's Recent Comments On Israel Are Cluttered and Wacky
If you can find a sequential response that makes any sense in this portion of Sarah Palin's Katie Couric Interview on CBS about America's ability to disagree with Israel, then you are a better person than I am.
Sarah Palin's Problems Make Her A Risky Choice
Sarah Palin's litany of difficulties make her nomination for Vice-President increasingly hard to believe.
Sarah Palin's Discussions Show Weaknesses and Naivete
The Republican Vice-Presidential candidate, in her interview with Charles Gibson of ABC, demonstrated a terribly naive grasp of national and international affairs.
Biden Will Continue To Check McCain Facts
Senator Joe Biden, while acknowledging the gentlemanly friendship that he and Senator John McCain have had for years in the Senate, will continue to point out inaccuracies in John McCain's record. This is not inappropriate. In fact, it is quite common in presidential election years.
Obama Should Be Seen As A Candidate, Not A Black Candidate
Citizens with an open mind believe Senator Barack Obama should be judged as a candidate with ideas, not simply as a black candidate, as comedian Chris Rock recently shared with Larry King.
American Labor Force Has A Friend in Kennedy
All American laborers have a friend in Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA), hospitalized tonight in Massachusetts.
From the farm worker, to the line worker, to the factory worker, American labor joins the Democratic Party in sending prayers and good wishes to Senator Kennedy tonight.
From the farm worker, to the line worker, to the factory worker, American labor joins the Democratic Party in sending prayers and good wishes to Senator Kennedy tonight.
Debate Important For American People...Stunt Was Foolish
With twenty minutes remaining until the start of the first presidential debate of this season, it is important to remind everyone that presidential debates and the discussion of presidential candidates' ideas are a vital service for the American voter and should go on despite the economic turmoil we find ourselves in.
John McCain's pathetic stunt, the "suspending" of his campaign and suggested boycott of tonight's debate to help formulate the congressional bailout of America's financial system, was a dismal failure. His effect in Washington was nothing but a distraction for both Republican and Democratic lawmakers charged with the responsibility of crafting a legislative remedy, and when faced with the possibility of leaving the stage to Barack Obama in a town-hall format, McCain panicked and backed off, agreeing to debate in Mississippi at Ole Miss after all.
We've heard nothing but continuous blather about how tough and courageous John McCain is.
Courage means more than just surviving the enemy in a military conflict. A Commander-in-Chief can't simply "suspend" activities when the going gets tough. The American people want to know what his stands on the issues are-all the issues.
I'm glad to see that the Arizona senator decided to put the American people first tonight, rather than cheap political theater.
It is about time.
John McCain's pathetic stunt, the "suspending" of his campaign and suggested boycott of tonight's debate to help formulate the congressional bailout of America's financial system, was a dismal failure. His effect in Washington was nothing but a distraction for both Republican and Democratic lawmakers charged with the responsibility of crafting a legislative remedy, and when faced with the possibility of leaving the stage to Barack Obama in a town-hall format, McCain panicked and backed off, agreeing to debate in Mississippi at Ole Miss after all.
We've heard nothing but continuous blather about how tough and courageous John McCain is.
Courage means more than just surviving the enemy in a military conflict. A Commander-in-Chief can't simply "suspend" activities when the going gets tough. The American people want to know what his stands on the issues are-all the issues.
I'm glad to see that the Arizona senator decided to put the American people first tonight, rather than cheap political theater.
It is about time.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Russian Navy Sends Squadron to Venezuela
At the behest of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who continues to assert that the United States poses a military threat to his country, the Russian Federation dispatched a naval squadron to Latin America, the first such move by America's rival since the Cold War.
We cannot tolerate such an aggressive move by the Russians, who seek to wield greater influence in America's backyard. Their maneuver is no doubt a response to America's proposed expansion of NATO to include Ukraine and Georgia, countries that border Russia.
We must seek to expand our dialogue and our economic aid with Latin America, so that we are its preferred benefactor, not Russia. Furthermore, we must deploy U.S. naval forces of our own to once again enforce the integrity of The Monroe Doctrine, and The Roosevelt Corollary to it.
We cannot tolerate such an aggressive move by the Russians, who seek to wield greater influence in America's backyard. Their maneuver is no doubt a response to America's proposed expansion of NATO to include Ukraine and Georgia, countries that border Russia.
We must seek to expand our dialogue and our economic aid with Latin America, so that we are its preferred benefactor, not Russia. Furthermore, we must deploy U.S. naval forces of our own to once again enforce the integrity of The Monroe Doctrine, and The Roosevelt Corollary to it.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
China Must Continue To Be Engaged By The West
A President McCain or a President Obama must continue to engage China in a positive and constructive way where we have interests in common, while still challenging it in areas needing vast improvement. Bipartisan advice and cooperation will be key here.
India and Russia Will Continue to Challenge Bipartisan Foreign Policy
As these foreign policy experts from both parties make clear, both India and Russia will continue to challenge the effectiveness and the imagination of American Foreign Policy in years to come.
Afghanistan a Particular Challenge For Bipartisanship
No area of the world will require as unique a bipartisan solution than the situation in Afghanistan.
Bipartisan Foreign Policy Advice Is Imperative Part 2
Bipartisanship in Foreign Affairs is no longer a luxury, but a necessity in today's volatile international climate.
Next President Must Seek Bipartisan Advice on Foreign Policy
Whoever wins the 2008 race for the White House must be far more willing than our current President to seek bipartisan advice and expertise in the area of Foreign Policy, as the attached video and subsequent ones demonstrate. No one party has cornered the market on intelligence, brains, insight, or diplomacy, as the Bush Administration would have us believe.
We Must Help Working Families
In response to the incredible financial turmoil of the past week, which saw the bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers, the purchase of Merrill Lynch by Bank Of America, and the government bailouts of Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and AIG Insurance, both presidential campaigns have stepped up their discussions of economic policies, as this Obama discussion demonstrates.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
We Must Never Forget
On this, the seventh anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania, we are reminded how fragile our lives and our freedom really are.
They are precious commodities, and we must seek every day to protect them.
We must honor those innocents who lost their lives in these senseless and shameful acts of cowardice by our enemies, enemies we must hunt to the ends of the earth.
Let us all pray for the souls of our fallen brothers and sisters.
We shall never forget them.
They are precious commodities, and we must seek every day to protect them.
We must honor those innocents who lost their lives in these senseless and shameful acts of cowardice by our enemies, enemies we must hunt to the ends of the earth.
Let us all pray for the souls of our fallen brothers and sisters.
We shall never forget them.
Democratic Convention Oratory #6
Here is yet another example of fine Democratic Convention oratory, the 1968 Democratic Convention Keynote Address, delivered by U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye (D-HI).
1968 DNC Keynote Speech in text in PDF
1968 DNC Keynote Speech in text in PDF
DNC In Denver-In A Minute
In case you missed it, I thought I would summarize in a quick minute the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver, Colorado.
RNC in St. Paul- In a Minute
Just in case you missed the Republican National Convention, I thought you might enjoy a brief, one minute summary.
Democratic Convention Oratory #5
Here is a fifth example of high quality Democratic Convention oratory:
Barbara Jordan delivers keynote address to Democratic National Convention
Barbara Jordan delivers keynote address to Democratic National Convention
Democratic Convention Oratory #2
Here is a second example of fine Democratic Party Convention Oratory.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Palin's Great Speech? Dems Have Had Their Fair Share #1
Contrary to the prevailing opinion, Sarah Palin's RNC Speech did not break any new standards for fiery, red meat, political base-exhilarating words.
In fact, the Democrats have a long history of real crowd-pleasing, foot- stomping convention speeches. The Republicans do not own the realm of effective convention oratory, not by any stretch of the imagination.
Democratic Convention oratory example #1:
In fact, the Democrats have a long history of real crowd-pleasing, foot- stomping convention speeches. The Republicans do not own the realm of effective convention oratory, not by any stretch of the imagination.
Democratic Convention oratory example #1:
McCain and Palin-Diversions Rather Than Issues
The American people of all political persuasions, Republicans and Democrats both, must demand better from their candidates than cheap, ridiculous diversions.
Rather than discussing its ideas for the future, the McCain-Palin ticket would rather engage in semantic word play with Senator Obama, over his comparison of the McCain economic policies and their uncanny resemblance to the Bush-Cheney policies, as the same old pig, only with lipstick.
The GOP attempt to say that Obama was making a veiled reference to the Palin RNC speech and her "pitbull with lipstick" comment is complete nonsense of the most ridiculous kind, as the following ABC video link shows.
Don't be fooled America! Issues really do matter! And, this lipstick foolishness is a monumental waste of time!
http://abcnews.go.com/video/playerIndex?id=5770170
Rather than discussing its ideas for the future, the McCain-Palin ticket would rather engage in semantic word play with Senator Obama, over his comparison of the McCain economic policies and their uncanny resemblance to the Bush-Cheney policies, as the same old pig, only with lipstick.
The GOP attempt to say that Obama was making a veiled reference to the Palin RNC speech and her "pitbull with lipstick" comment is complete nonsense of the most ridiculous kind, as the following ABC video link shows.
Don't be fooled America! Issues really do matter! And, this lipstick foolishness is a monumental waste of time!
http://abcnews.go.com/video/playerIndex?id=5770170
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Palin's Religious Heritage Must Be Examined
While Religious Freedom is a hallmark of this great nation, the fact is that Sarah Palin is an unknown quantity to Americans, plucked from obscurity by Senator John McCain a week ago.
Unlike McCain, Obama, and Biden, Palin did not undergo the intense scrutiny of the presidential primaries.
We are now on a limited campaign calendar, and the American people are entitled to know as much about this newcomer as possible.
Though now a member of a community church since her entry into politics, her prior religious influences are just as relevant for examination as all the yelling and screaming about Obama's former Pastor, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright, this past summer and spring.
As much as the Republican Party would like to wrap itself in the flag and the Bible, and attack Obama for his early relgious influences, that double standard will not work. Sarah Palin's beliefs will influence her policy views just like anybody else in public life.
The American people are entitled to know what those beliefs are.
Palin Should Not Be Above Public Scrutiny
Despite the interview that Governor Palin has now agreed to give, the scrutiny of her must continue to be intense, and far more reaching.
She is auditioning for the second most powerful job in the country, and she should not be let off the hook.
The scrutiny of her must be just as intense as that for Obama, McCain, and Biden. No Exceptions.
Let's Begin To Really Examine Palin Land
While I applaud Governor Palin's decision to finally engage in an interview this Thursday and Friday, it is high time that she be subjected to the same level of scrutiny as McCain, Obama, and Biden.
She calls herself a maverick, and touts her Alaska record...well, people should look at all pieces of her background and her record, the same as with the other three candidates.
Bravo Governor Palin
Bravo to the Vice-Presidential nominee of the Republican Party!
Governor Palin has finally consented to an interview over two days with ABC's Charles Gibson!
The interview will take place in Alaska this Thursday and Friday.
Continue to step up to the plate Governor.
The American people deserve that.
Governor Palin has finally consented to an interview over two days with ABC's Charles Gibson!
The interview will take place in Alaska this Thursday and Friday.
Continue to step up to the plate Governor.
The American people deserve that.
Senator Obama: Stick to the Issues, Your Strong Suit
Today, Senator Obama's attempt to be witty at a campaign stop was a move he should avoid. Referring to Sarah Palin as, "Governor, Mother, and Moose shooter...that's cool stuff," could be interpreted by some of the more ignorant elements of our populus as a derogatory comment.
Avoid such jabs Senator. You have great strength on the issues. Play to your strengths. That is always the best strategy, in any endeavor, including campaigns.
Avoid such jabs Senator. You have great strength on the issues. Play to your strengths. That is always the best strategy, in any endeavor, including campaigns.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Senator Obama: Play Your Game, Not Theirs
Senator Obama, you stated on This Week with George Stephanopoulos that you didn't feel Sarah Palin was qualified to be Vice-President.
While I agree with you, let me give you a piece of unsolicited advice, if I may, as a citizen of the U.S.
Prove to the American people in this campaign that the Obama-Biden ticket is better qualified to govern by example, not by playing the GOP's game of clashing words.
Prove she is less qualified by showcasing the power of your progressive ideals and ideas, in contrast to her regurgitation of GOP poll-tested sound bites.
She and Senator McCain claim to "talk the talk" of reform and change.
Show them both how to "walk the walk".
While I agree with you, let me give you a piece of unsolicited advice, if I may, as a citizen of the U.S.
Prove to the American people in this campaign that the Obama-Biden ticket is better qualified to govern by example, not by playing the GOP's game of clashing words.
Prove she is less qualified by showcasing the power of your progressive ideals and ideas, in contrast to her regurgitation of GOP poll-tested sound bites.
She and Senator McCain claim to "talk the talk" of reform and change.
Show them both how to "walk the walk".
Palin Absent
The luster of her newness is now over.
It is time for the Republican Vice-Presidential nominee to take interviews with the press.
Aside from a photo permitted for PEOPLE magazine, Palin has done no interviews.
Governor, if you are afraid of giving interviews to American journalists, I must question how fearless you will be when faced with Vladmir Putin, Hu Jintao, Kim Jong il, and Osama Bin Laden.
You want to be Vice-President, huh?
Vice-Presidents don't exist in a vacuum or in rooms filled only with their supporters.
Talk to reporters and to the world, or you have no right to the mantle of the Vice-Presidency.
It is time for the Republican Vice-Presidential nominee to take interviews with the press.
Aside from a photo permitted for PEOPLE magazine, Palin has done no interviews.
Governor, if you are afraid of giving interviews to American journalists, I must question how fearless you will be when faced with Vladmir Putin, Hu Jintao, Kim Jong il, and Osama Bin Laden.
You want to be Vice-President, huh?
Vice-Presidents don't exist in a vacuum or in rooms filled only with their supporters.
Talk to reporters and to the world, or you have no right to the mantle of the Vice-Presidency.
Like It Or Not, Age Is An Issue
While we can all agree that John McCain is a hero with a compelling life story, his age is an issue in this campaign whether McCain-Palin likes it or not.
The GOP Convention showcased the senator's mother, Roberta, a spry and nimble woman in her 90's, as evidence of John McCain's potential longevity, and that display is certainly a valid one.
But there is another equally valid display with regard to longevity that McCain-Palin would rather not highlight.
John McCain just turned 72 years old.
His father, a U.S. Navy Admiral, died at the age of 70, two years younger than the senator is right now.
His grandfather, also a U.S. Navy Admiral, died at the age of 61, eleven years younger than the senator is right now.
The life expectancy of the American male currently stands at 75.4 years old, a mere three years older than the senator's current age.
One presidential term is, of course, a four year commitment.
The Republican Party can try to distract the nation all it wants from the age issue with patriotism, heroism, flags, beautiful family images, and a Vice-Presidential newcomer to the national and international stage all it wants. And those images are certainly relevant ones.
But the 800 pound gorilla issue in the room is that John McCain wants to be awarded the most powerful elective office in the world at an age when corporations, universities, and even some churches have long since relegated their most senior members to at best, supporting roles in their organizations. It is precisely at the advanced age of 72, when many other organizations have long since promoted younger professionals whose mental acuity, open-mindedness, and psychological reflexes are sharper and better suited for the advancement and prosperity of their organizations, that John McCain asks to be given control of the nuclear launchcodes.
Experience is fine, but the physical and mental weakening that is an inevitable consequence of aging cannot, and should not, be overlooked in this campaign.
The GOP Convention showcased the senator's mother, Roberta, a spry and nimble woman in her 90's, as evidence of John McCain's potential longevity, and that display is certainly a valid one.
But there is another equally valid display with regard to longevity that McCain-Palin would rather not highlight.
John McCain just turned 72 years old.
His father, a U.S. Navy Admiral, died at the age of 70, two years younger than the senator is right now.
His grandfather, also a U.S. Navy Admiral, died at the age of 61, eleven years younger than the senator is right now.
The life expectancy of the American male currently stands at 75.4 years old, a mere three years older than the senator's current age.
One presidential term is, of course, a four year commitment.
The Republican Party can try to distract the nation all it wants from the age issue with patriotism, heroism, flags, beautiful family images, and a Vice-Presidential newcomer to the national and international stage all it wants. And those images are certainly relevant ones.
But the 800 pound gorilla issue in the room is that John McCain wants to be awarded the most powerful elective office in the world at an age when corporations, universities, and even some churches have long since relegated their most senior members to at best, supporting roles in their organizations. It is precisely at the advanced age of 72, when many other organizations have long since promoted younger professionals whose mental acuity, open-mindedness, and psychological reflexes are sharper and better suited for the advancement and prosperity of their organizations, that John McCain asks to be given control of the nuclear launchcodes.
Experience is fine, but the physical and mental weakening that is an inevitable consequence of aging cannot, and should not, be overlooked in this campaign.
Inhofe Proves Again What a Fool Really Is
In a recent interview with The Tulsa World, U.S. Senator James Inhofe (R-Oklahoma) said, "You have to ask yourself, do you really want a Commander-in-Chief who I'm not sure really loves his country?" in reference to Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama.
At no time during the 2008 presidential race has Senator Obama said or implied that he doesn't love his country, so Inhofe ought to watch his inflammatory words and his mouth. For one United States Senator to question the patriotism of another on totally baseless grounds says far more about the the kind of man James Inhofe is than the kind of man Barack Obama is.
Contrary to what the right-wing of the Republican Party would like the whole country to believe, military service is not the only measure of patriotism and love of country. John McCain is a patriot who loves his country, and so is Barack Obama.
The fact that their life experiences are different does not make patriotism the sole realm of the Republicans, despite the cinematic imagery and permanent red, white, and blue color scheme of the GOP Convention.
Senator Inhofe has had a career marked by stupid comments that have embarassed his fellow Oklahomans time and time again. Why should this time be any different?
At 73 years old with a mouth that opens only to say insulting and uninformed things, the Oklahoma senator may find in the next election that he will be an example of that refrain from an old song of his native West, he may find himself, "HOME, HOME ON THE RANGE."
The good people of Oklahoma, and the nation, can only hope.
At no time during the 2008 presidential race has Senator Obama said or implied that he doesn't love his country, so Inhofe ought to watch his inflammatory words and his mouth. For one United States Senator to question the patriotism of another on totally baseless grounds says far more about the the kind of man James Inhofe is than the kind of man Barack Obama is.
Contrary to what the right-wing of the Republican Party would like the whole country to believe, military service is not the only measure of patriotism and love of country. John McCain is a patriot who loves his country, and so is Barack Obama.
The fact that their life experiences are different does not make patriotism the sole realm of the Republicans, despite the cinematic imagery and permanent red, white, and blue color scheme of the GOP Convention.
Senator Inhofe has had a career marked by stupid comments that have embarassed his fellow Oklahomans time and time again. Why should this time be any different?
At 73 years old with a mouth that opens only to say insulting and uninformed things, the Oklahoma senator may find in the next election that he will be an example of that refrain from an old song of his native West, he may find himself, "HOME, HOME ON THE RANGE."
The good people of Oklahoma, and the nation, can only hope.
Biden Shows Life in Public Service Can Make You Fighter
While right-wingers would have you believe that Joe Biden's Senate seniority makes him a member of the Washington elite who cares nothing for the average American, the truth is that this is a man who still remembers his roots, and what the average American cares about. Governor Palin is certainly impressive in her own right, but Biden is as well, no question.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Bhutto's Widower New Pakistani President
In a landslide electoral victory on Saturday, Asif Ali Zardari, widower of slain former Pakistani Prime minister Benazir Bhutto, was elected the new President of Pakistan by the upper and lower chambers of the Pakistani Parliament.
He will succeed Pervez Musharraf, the former President and army general who resigned last month under calls for his impeachment.
Riding to a wave of victory on his own calls for reform and the outpouring of love still felt for his late wife, who was assassinated in December of 2007, Zardari must seek to maintain ties to the West while cracking down on the regrouped Taliban regime that still operates in Pakistan's mountainous tribal regions, largely unchecked.
He must maintain and increase the stability of his country, a nuclear power that is both a lifelong adversary of India and a breeding ground for Islamic extremists.
He was reminded on the day of his election just how difficult a task that will be, as a suicide bomber killed 17 people in the northwest city of Peshawar...the same city where his wife was murdered by extremists just nine months ago.
He will succeed Pervez Musharraf, the former President and army general who resigned last month under calls for his impeachment.
Riding to a wave of victory on his own calls for reform and the outpouring of love still felt for his late wife, who was assassinated in December of 2007, Zardari must seek to maintain ties to the West while cracking down on the regrouped Taliban regime that still operates in Pakistan's mountainous tribal regions, largely unchecked.
He must maintain and increase the stability of his country, a nuclear power that is both a lifelong adversary of India and a breeding ground for Islamic extremists.
He was reminded on the day of his election just how difficult a task that will be, as a suicide bomber killed 17 people in the northwest city of Peshawar...the same city where his wife was murdered by extremists just nine months ago.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Economy Weaker Still
In the month of August, according to aol Money and Finance, U.S. employers eliminated 84,000 jobs, bringing the U.S. Unemployment Rate to 6.1%, a five year high.
The stakes for America's middle and lower classes, the overwhelming majority of its workforce, have never been higher.
The increased unemployment rate, bank failures, credit crunch, and home foreclosures do not bode well for either candidate, Obama or McCain, who fails to present concrete and detailed plans for returning our economy to full strength over the next four years.
Step up and outline your plans and strategies with specificity gentlemen.
The American people deserve no less.
The stakes for America's middle and lower classes, the overwhelming majority of its workforce, have never been higher.
The increased unemployment rate, bank failures, credit crunch, and home foreclosures do not bode well for either candidate, Obama or McCain, who fails to present concrete and detailed plans for returning our economy to full strength over the next four years.
Step up and outline your plans and strategies with specificity gentlemen.
The American people deserve no less.
What is the Change You Can Believe In?
Both candidates in the 2008 presidential race claim to be the agent of the change that America so desperately needs.
Both delivered impressive acceptance speeches to their respective party conventions.
Both are strong personalities with compelling personal stories backed by legions of dedicated and loyal followers.
But if each one is an agent of change, that begs the question: What kind of change?
When John McCain speaks of change, as he did in his acceptance speech last night, he talks of bringing change to Washington, D.C. and its political class.
When Barack Obama speaks, he talks of bringing change to the lives of people out in the country.
John McCain says he will change Washington, and that all will be well in the nation because he took on fellow Washington veterans like himself. To McCain, the Washington veterans of both parties are the problem, except for him-the "Maverick."
A true maverick would talk about new ideas and new ways forward on issues that go beyond more oil drilling, a position he hopes to put forward with the help of Sarah Palin and her oil-company employed husband. While his ideas on energy sources have been expressed, very few others have been.
John McCain says he will bring change to Washington.
Barack Obama is the living embodiment of change at the national and international levels for the United States in 2008, a man who does not merely speak of change in Washington, but of change in the lives of America's citizens.
John McCain traffics in the buzzwords of the Republican past, "no government, pro-life, right-wing judges, tax cuts, big oil, and Reaganomics."
America must move beyond the tired, old themes of the past and boldly chart a new course of innovation, security, and economic development and investment for the future.
A tired, old heroic warrior vs. an energized, young historic innovator...
The politics of divide and conquer vs. the politics of united we are one...
Homogeneous all-white-all-the time monotony vs. Heterogeneous multicultural pluralism...
Change you can believe in?
Indeed.
Both delivered impressive acceptance speeches to their respective party conventions.
Both are strong personalities with compelling personal stories backed by legions of dedicated and loyal followers.
But if each one is an agent of change, that begs the question: What kind of change?
When John McCain speaks of change, as he did in his acceptance speech last night, he talks of bringing change to Washington, D.C. and its political class.
When Barack Obama speaks, he talks of bringing change to the lives of people out in the country.
John McCain says he will change Washington, and that all will be well in the nation because he took on fellow Washington veterans like himself. To McCain, the Washington veterans of both parties are the problem, except for him-the "Maverick."
A true maverick would talk about new ideas and new ways forward on issues that go beyond more oil drilling, a position he hopes to put forward with the help of Sarah Palin and her oil-company employed husband. While his ideas on energy sources have been expressed, very few others have been.
John McCain says he will bring change to Washington.
Barack Obama is the living embodiment of change at the national and international levels for the United States in 2008, a man who does not merely speak of change in Washington, but of change in the lives of America's citizens.
John McCain traffics in the buzzwords of the Republican past, "no government, pro-life, right-wing judges, tax cuts, big oil, and Reaganomics."
America must move beyond the tired, old themes of the past and boldly chart a new course of innovation, security, and economic development and investment for the future.
A tired, old heroic warrior vs. an energized, young historic innovator...
The politics of divide and conquer vs. the politics of united we are one...
Homogeneous all-white-all-the time monotony vs. Heterogeneous multicultural pluralism...
Change you can believe in?
Indeed.
The Dangerous Underlying Psychology of the 2008 Presidential Race
Now that both conventions have passed, the monumental combat begins.
Each of the four political combatants in this race has a unique challenge on the way to November:
1) Barack Obama must demonstrate that he respects John McCain's service and heroism without appearing to diminish its significance in the public eye, while also demonstrating that he himself is tough enough to be Commander-in-Chief and experienced enough on the world stage to contradict McCain's assertions about him.
2) Joseph Biden must demonstrate his vast superiority to Sarah Palin in the areas of governing, legislating and foreign policy, without appearing to be bullying or condescending toward her, while concurrently avoiding a mistake of fact or style that would permit Palin to portray herself as more experienced and prepared than she really is.
3) John McCain must appear to have new, fresh ideas that make his age irrelevant in the face of a young, intelligent, articulate, informed, and nimble opponent who has shattered a racial barrier for millions of Americans looking for a change in Washington.
4) Sarah Palin must demonstrate that she actually belongs one heartbeat away from the most powerful elective office in the world, and that will come from understanding the intricacies of issues and their significance not just at the state level, but at the national and international levels as well.
We as a nation are about to be drawn into a cross-generational vortex: Young Obama vs. Old McCain and Old Joe vs. Young Sarah.
Strap yourselves in. It is going to be quite a ride.
Each of the four political combatants in this race has a unique challenge on the way to November:
1) Barack Obama must demonstrate that he respects John McCain's service and heroism without appearing to diminish its significance in the public eye, while also demonstrating that he himself is tough enough to be Commander-in-Chief and experienced enough on the world stage to contradict McCain's assertions about him.
2) Joseph Biden must demonstrate his vast superiority to Sarah Palin in the areas of governing, legislating and foreign policy, without appearing to be bullying or condescending toward her, while concurrently avoiding a mistake of fact or style that would permit Palin to portray herself as more experienced and prepared than she really is.
3) John McCain must appear to have new, fresh ideas that make his age irrelevant in the face of a young, intelligent, articulate, informed, and nimble opponent who has shattered a racial barrier for millions of Americans looking for a change in Washington.
4) Sarah Palin must demonstrate that she actually belongs one heartbeat away from the most powerful elective office in the world, and that will come from understanding the intricacies of issues and their significance not just at the state level, but at the national and international levels as well.
We as a nation are about to be drawn into a cross-generational vortex: Young Obama vs. Old McCain and Old Joe vs. Young Sarah.
Strap yourselves in. It is going to be quite a ride.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
John McCain's Heroism
John McCain served this country and its people with honor, dignity, and self-sacrifice during the Vietnam War, and every single one of us, myself included, owes him a debt of gratitude that we can never fully repay.
By any objective standard of military service and sacrifice, John McCain is an American hero who commands our respect and is not only entitled to it, but deserves it as well. And, he certainly has my respect and my thanks for his sacrifice and his service.
Heroism, and the character it engenders, are certainly qualities we look for in Presidents of the United States. There is no question about that.
But heroism on the battlefield is but one type of heroism, and those who did not serve in uniform should not be summarily dismissed as leaders of strength, character, and honor simply because they've never been shot at.
In addition, ideas and solutions to problems matter as well. To be heroic but devoid of significant ideas is not an answer to moving America forward in the twenty-first century.
If Senator McCain has significant proposals that will move America forward and that will address its many problems that go beyond the boilerplate wording of the Republican Platform, now is the time for him to discuss them at length with the American people.
Without question, everyone loves a hero. They can win the day.
But heroes with problem-solving skills and fresh ideas can win the future.
By any objective standard of military service and sacrifice, John McCain is an American hero who commands our respect and is not only entitled to it, but deserves it as well. And, he certainly has my respect and my thanks for his sacrifice and his service.
Heroism, and the character it engenders, are certainly qualities we look for in Presidents of the United States. There is no question about that.
But heroism on the battlefield is but one type of heroism, and those who did not serve in uniform should not be summarily dismissed as leaders of strength, character, and honor simply because they've never been shot at.
In addition, ideas and solutions to problems matter as well. To be heroic but devoid of significant ideas is not an answer to moving America forward in the twenty-first century.
If Senator McCain has significant proposals that will move America forward and that will address its many problems that go beyond the boilerplate wording of the Republican Platform, now is the time for him to discuss them at length with the American people.
Without question, everyone loves a hero. They can win the day.
But heroes with problem-solving skills and fresh ideas can win the future.
Lack of GOP Diversity A Problem
While the Republican Party delegates in St. Paul are excited by their ticket and are as enthused in their own way as the Democratic delegates were last week in Denver, the overwhelming lack of ethnic and racial diversity in the convention hall, so blatantly obvious as the networks pan the venue with their cameras, is a troubling prophecy for the future of the Republican Party.
For all its talk about being the Party of Lincoln, and the Party of the Big Tent, the uncanny reality is something else entirely. A party truly committed to the big tent idea will certainly have scores of white members. But when the overwhelming majority of the delegates to the convention, as any observer can clearly see, are white (with some rare exceptions in the crowd), then the GOP has a significant problem.
By the year 2050, caucasian Americans will cease to be the numerical majority in the United States of America. Numerous studies and analyses confirm this undeniable fact. The Republican Party may wish that it can continue to advocate for presidential tickets of white wasps and white protestants, but the fact is that the very base the GOP is catering to this week will not hold the numerical majority in this country forever, as much as they wish it were so.
The GOP can attack the "angry left" all it wants to, but the fact remains that only one party in this country has a significantly consistent history of being open to whites, blacks, hispanics, straight people, gay people, single parents, married couples, small town people, big city people, people of all religious affiliations or none at all, people who love their homes, their guns, their seniors , and their flag just as much as the GOP, despite its shameful smear tactics every four years-and that consistently open party is the Democratic Party.
Only one party has a history of working to unite people from all segments of society and all walks of life, the true hallmark of patriotism and love of country, and that is the Democratic Party.
The GOP can wrap itself in Old Glory all it wants, but its history of divisive tactics, smear politics, religious profiling, racial profiling, assaults on the middle class and the labor movement, and its consistent opposition to every major piece of progressive legislation that improved quality of life in America during the last half of the twentieth century continue to make it the dirt path to the past, not the highway to the future.
For all its talk about being the Party of Lincoln, and the Party of the Big Tent, the uncanny reality is something else entirely. A party truly committed to the big tent idea will certainly have scores of white members. But when the overwhelming majority of the delegates to the convention, as any observer can clearly see, are white (with some rare exceptions in the crowd), then the GOP has a significant problem.
By the year 2050, caucasian Americans will cease to be the numerical majority in the United States of America. Numerous studies and analyses confirm this undeniable fact. The Republican Party may wish that it can continue to advocate for presidential tickets of white wasps and white protestants, but the fact is that the very base the GOP is catering to this week will not hold the numerical majority in this country forever, as much as they wish it were so.
The GOP can attack the "angry left" all it wants to, but the fact remains that only one party in this country has a significantly consistent history of being open to whites, blacks, hispanics, straight people, gay people, single parents, married couples, small town people, big city people, people of all religious affiliations or none at all, people who love their homes, their guns, their seniors , and their flag just as much as the GOP, despite its shameful smear tactics every four years-and that consistently open party is the Democratic Party.
Only one party has a history of working to unite people from all segments of society and all walks of life, the true hallmark of patriotism and love of country, and that is the Democratic Party.
The GOP can wrap itself in Old Glory all it wants, but its history of divisive tactics, smear politics, religious profiling, racial profiling, assaults on the middle class and the labor movement, and its consistent opposition to every major piece of progressive legislation that improved quality of life in America during the last half of the twentieth century continue to make it the dirt path to the past, not the highway to the future.
Palin Introduces Herself
In her acceptance speech to the Republican National Convention last night, Governor Sarah Palin of Alaska showcased her photogenic family, related her experiences as Governor and mayor, and thrilled the Republican Party base with her wit.
Though she took aim at her Democratic opponents briefly, she is to be commended for delivering a fine speech to the crowd. Though it was written by a Bush Administration speechwriter, she delivered her lines with the zest and fervor that her supporters expected.
She introduced herself well, and now must begin the process of learning how to navigate the waters of both national and international crises and policy, as a Vice-President must.
Though she took aim at her Democratic opponents briefly, she is to be commended for delivering a fine speech to the crowd. Though it was written by a Bush Administration speechwriter, she delivered her lines with the zest and fervor that her supporters expected.
She introduced herself well, and now must begin the process of learning how to navigate the waters of both national and international crises and policy, as a Vice-President must.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Georgians Rally Against Russia, And We Must Stand With Them
Yesterday, one million Georgians, according to the press, protested against Russian military action and the backing by Russia of Georgia's two separatist regions.
Held in the capital city of Tbilisi, the protesters united to show their support for Georgian autonomy, in the aftermath of Russian action in August to crush a Georgian bid to retake the breakaway region of South Ossetia from pro-Moscow separatists.
The European Union weighed in by postponing talks with the Russians on a new partnership pact that was scheduled for later in September, on the condition that Moscow pull its troops out of Georgia.
In response, The Russian government accused the United States of sending weapons and assistance to the Republic of Georgia, and once again warned Western governments to deny support to Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili.
The West must not allow itself to be bullied by renewed Russian saber-rattling. It should continue to expand the NATO alliance, and should continue to give verbal support to Georgia in its hour of need. In addition, we must not give up on Russia. With its nuclear arsenal, energy reserves, and strategic importance in the war on international terrorism, we must help the Russians avoid the perilous backslide back into totalitarianism, and encourage the further develop of market forces and democratic reforms.
Held in the capital city of Tbilisi, the protesters united to show their support for Georgian autonomy, in the aftermath of Russian action in August to crush a Georgian bid to retake the breakaway region of South Ossetia from pro-Moscow separatists.
The European Union weighed in by postponing talks with the Russians on a new partnership pact that was scheduled for later in September, on the condition that Moscow pull its troops out of Georgia.
In response, The Russian government accused the United States of sending weapons and assistance to the Republic of Georgia, and once again warned Western governments to deny support to Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili.
The West must not allow itself to be bullied by renewed Russian saber-rattling. It should continue to expand the NATO alliance, and should continue to give verbal support to Georgia in its hour of need. In addition, we must not give up on Russia. With its nuclear arsenal, energy reserves, and strategic importance in the war on international terrorism, we must help the Russians avoid the perilous backslide back into totalitarianism, and encourage the further develop of market forces and democratic reforms.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Biden More Honorable Public Servant Than Karl Rove Will Ever Be
In response to Bush Victory Architect Karl Rove's declaration today that Democratic Vice-Presidential candidate Joseph Biden is a "big blowhard doofus," because of his propensity to talk alot about issues, I have only one thing to say: Karl Rove has no standing to criticize ANYONE.
Joseph Biden has done more in serving Delaware, in serving the nation, in putting cops on the street, in raising his boys as a single father after the tragic death of his wife, in drafting the Violence Against Women Act, in leading the charge against the confirmation of Right-Wing zealot Robert Bork to the Supreme Court, in being a leading advocate for U.S. intervention to stop the ethnic cleansing campaigns in Bosnia and Kosovo, and in facing down genocidal/homicidal maniacs like Slobodan Milosevic, than Karl Rove has accomplished in all his right-wing political pontificating over the last eight years.
A college dropout and former direct mail posterboy like Rove would never have gotten a chance at a national reputation if he hadn't schooled a non-effective Governor from Texas in the art of political mudslinging and political chicanery.
I'll take a talkative Joe Biden with a documented record of achievement any day of the week and twice on Sundays over a deceitful, unscrupulous, and unprincipled political hack like Karl Rove.
Of course Karl Rove has time to attack Biden now that even the Presidential nightmare he created has disavowed him. Without the White House and Team Bush to cover his mistakes and to make excuses for him, Rove has nothing left to do with his time but attack quality public servants, pretend to be of value to the McCain Campaign (which he isn't), and await some misstep that will finally see the law punish him for his dubious and reprehensible machinations during the Bush years.
What goes around comes around. Mr. Rove can't escape retribution for his deceitful brand of political destruction forever.
Joseph Biden has done more in serving Delaware, in serving the nation, in putting cops on the street, in raising his boys as a single father after the tragic death of his wife, in drafting the Violence Against Women Act, in leading the charge against the confirmation of Right-Wing zealot Robert Bork to the Supreme Court, in being a leading advocate for U.S. intervention to stop the ethnic cleansing campaigns in Bosnia and Kosovo, and in facing down genocidal/homicidal maniacs like Slobodan Milosevic, than Karl Rove has accomplished in all his right-wing political pontificating over the last eight years.
A college dropout and former direct mail posterboy like Rove would never have gotten a chance at a national reputation if he hadn't schooled a non-effective Governor from Texas in the art of political mudslinging and political chicanery.
I'll take a talkative Joe Biden with a documented record of achievement any day of the week and twice on Sundays over a deceitful, unscrupulous, and unprincipled political hack like Karl Rove.
Of course Karl Rove has time to attack Biden now that even the Presidential nightmare he created has disavowed him. Without the White House and Team Bush to cover his mistakes and to make excuses for him, Rove has nothing left to do with his time but attack quality public servants, pretend to be of value to the McCain Campaign (which he isn't), and await some misstep that will finally see the law punish him for his dubious and reprehensible machinations during the Bush years.
What goes around comes around. Mr. Rove can't escape retribution for his deceitful brand of political destruction forever.
Japanese Government Again Rudderless
With the resignation today of Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda, the Japanese state finds itself once again struggling to find a charismatic leader to resemble the former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi.
As with Koizumi's hand-picked successor, Shinzo Abe, who resigned shortly after taking office due to health reasons, the departure of Fukuda leaves the shaky Japanese economy in a state of continued turmoil, exacerbated by another power vacuum at the top.
With the Japanese Parliament evenly divided between Fukuda's party and the opposition party, a genuine unifier and political healer will be necessary to stem the tide of turmoil that has been the recent hallmark of Japan's economic downturn.
With China's rising influence in the region, as demonstrated by their recent extraordinary performance in hosting the 2008 Summer Olympic Games, the Japanese must come together to shake off their malaise both economically and politically before it is too late.
As with Koizumi's hand-picked successor, Shinzo Abe, who resigned shortly after taking office due to health reasons, the departure of Fukuda leaves the shaky Japanese economy in a state of continued turmoil, exacerbated by another power vacuum at the top.
With the Japanese Parliament evenly divided between Fukuda's party and the opposition party, a genuine unifier and political healer will be necessary to stem the tide of turmoil that has been the recent hallmark of Japan's economic downturn.
With China's rising influence in the region, as demonstrated by their recent extraordinary performance in hosting the 2008 Summer Olympic Games, the Japanese must come together to shake off their malaise both economically and politically before it is too late.
Palin's Family Should Be Off-Limits, With One Exception
The revelation earlier today that Governor Sarah Palin's 17 year old daughter is pregnant, and will marry the father is, sadly in our society, all too frequent. And yes, I agree with both the McCain and Obama campaigns that the families of the candidates should be off-limits to insult and overzealous scrutiny by the media...with one exception.
The ticket of John McCain and Sarah Palin has no standing now to climb upon a "proverbial high horse" and lecture the good people of America, or the Obama-Biden ticket for that matter, on the subject of "family and moral values." This has been an all-too frequent weapon in the arsenal of Republican presidential tickets of the past-imposing the so-called moral and Right-Wing Christian values of some on the lives of everyone, regardless of their religious belief system.
I hope the McCain-Palin ticket will show more class than to tout the superiority of their Republican values over that of the Democrats' values. If not, if they decide to attack Obama-Biden and their legions of supporters on "moral family values" in a cheap, tawdry effort to capture undecided swing voters, then by all means, I say to the Democratic ticket...TAKE THE GLOVES OFF, AND COME OUT SWINGING!
If McCain -Palin decides to attack Democrats with the old and tired family values stick in this election, I say fine. Let's then give them the debate they want-a debate on family and moral values- Let's then publicly examine the family and moral values of a Vice-Presidential nominee and her nearest and dearest whose lessons and parenting skills were apparently so effective that a 17 year old girl got pregnant out of wedlock... and the daughter of the state's Chief Executive Officer to boot! Quite a role model for the people of Alaska and the country.
If McCain-Palin knows what's good for them, and wants a shot at winning this election, it had better not go there.
The ticket of John McCain and Sarah Palin has no standing now to climb upon a "proverbial high horse" and lecture the good people of America, or the Obama-Biden ticket for that matter, on the subject of "family and moral values." This has been an all-too frequent weapon in the arsenal of Republican presidential tickets of the past-imposing the so-called moral and Right-Wing Christian values of some on the lives of everyone, regardless of their religious belief system.
I hope the McCain-Palin ticket will show more class than to tout the superiority of their Republican values over that of the Democrats' values. If not, if they decide to attack Obama-Biden and their legions of supporters on "moral family values" in a cheap, tawdry effort to capture undecided swing voters, then by all means, I say to the Democratic ticket...TAKE THE GLOVES OFF, AND COME OUT SWINGING!
If McCain -Palin decides to attack Democrats with the old and tired family values stick in this election, I say fine. Let's then give them the debate they want-a debate on family and moral values- Let's then publicly examine the family and moral values of a Vice-Presidential nominee and her nearest and dearest whose lessons and parenting skills were apparently so effective that a 17 year old girl got pregnant out of wedlock... and the daughter of the state's Chief Executive Officer to boot! Quite a role model for the people of Alaska and the country.
If McCain-Palin knows what's good for them, and wants a shot at winning this election, it had better not go there.
Unless Our Course Changes, Retirement May Be a Thing of the Past
As American voters prepare to go to the polls this November, the stakes for America's well-being and strength have never been higher.
More and more American workers are working longer and harder for less, while corporate profits continue to skyrocket, and for many, savings is difficult, if not impossible, in today's volatile economic climate. The American Dream of a well-earned retirement after a lifetime of a job well done is becoming increasingly fleeting for all except the super-wealthy.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 29% of people in their late 60's were working in 2006, up from 18% in 1985, and 6 million workers last year were age 65 or older. According to the Bureau and aol Money and Finance, over the next decade, workers age 55 and up are expected to rise at more than 5 times the rate of the overall work force in America.
If senior citizens in America choose to keep working full-time because they want to, I say bravo, good for them. Staying active and engaged both physically and mentally is not only good for one's health, but good for the country as well.
But if senior citizens have to work for fear of getting sick, going hungry, or losing what little they have, that is morally wrong in a country as great as our own. To those who say, "Well, they didn't save enough, that's their own fault, just too bad. Only the strongest deserve to survive,"
I say that Social Darwinism and devouring the weakest among us without providing opportunities to help those most elderly among us is a travesty of the highest caliber.
No one is talking about a handout. I am talking about a hand up. All Americans who have worked hard all their lives deserve that when needed.
More and more American workers are working longer and harder for less, while corporate profits continue to skyrocket, and for many, savings is difficult, if not impossible, in today's volatile economic climate. The American Dream of a well-earned retirement after a lifetime of a job well done is becoming increasingly fleeting for all except the super-wealthy.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 29% of people in their late 60's were working in 2006, up from 18% in 1985, and 6 million workers last year were age 65 or older. According to the Bureau and aol Money and Finance, over the next decade, workers age 55 and up are expected to rise at more than 5 times the rate of the overall work force in America.
If senior citizens in America choose to keep working full-time because they want to, I say bravo, good for them. Staying active and engaged both physically and mentally is not only good for one's health, but good for the country as well.
But if senior citizens have to work for fear of getting sick, going hungry, or losing what little they have, that is morally wrong in a country as great as our own. To those who say, "Well, they didn't save enough, that's their own fault, just too bad. Only the strongest deserve to survive,"
I say that Social Darwinism and devouring the weakest among us without providing opportunities to help those most elderly among us is a travesty of the highest caliber.
No one is talking about a handout. I am talking about a hand up. All Americans who have worked hard all their lives deserve that when needed.
McCain Modifies Day One, Jefferson Prepares For Primary
I agree with John McCain's decision to cut back the festivities of Day One of the RNC Convention due to the impending arrival of Hurricane Gustav at the Gulf Coast. Not wishing to repeat the mistakes of the past and to appear shamefully partisan, McCain will spend time along the Gulf Coast initially monitoring the situation. I look for the GOP to pretend that Katrina never happened, and to say, in effect, "Look at us now...See, we do care, we do want to protect ordinary citizens from the wrath of Mother Nature."
I disagree, however, with U.S. Congressman William Jefferson (D-LA), as he stands ready to compete in this Saturday's Democratic House Primary in Louisiana. Looking to win a 10th Term in the U.S. House, I think that Congressman Jefferson' s recent Federal indictment on Bribery charges should give the man a moment of pause as to whether or not he is still fit to serve the public interest. As he awaits the start of his federal bribery trial in Virginia later this year, I think that most thinking Democrats would agree that Jefferson gave up the right to serve the people when he so blatantly began serving himself.
How do I know this? I remind my readers that the FBI found close to $90,000 in bribes in Rep. Jefferson's house when they searched it, money he denied knowledge of.
Where did they find it?
In his freezer.
I rest my case.
I disagree, however, with U.S. Congressman William Jefferson (D-LA), as he stands ready to compete in this Saturday's Democratic House Primary in Louisiana. Looking to win a 10th Term in the U.S. House, I think that Congressman Jefferson' s recent Federal indictment on Bribery charges should give the man a moment of pause as to whether or not he is still fit to serve the public interest. As he awaits the start of his federal bribery trial in Virginia later this year, I think that most thinking Democrats would agree that Jefferson gave up the right to serve the people when he so blatantly began serving himself.
How do I know this? I remind my readers that the FBI found close to $90,000 in bribes in Rep. Jefferson's house when they searched it, money he denied knowledge of.
Where did they find it?
In his freezer.
I rest my case.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Nagin Got A Second Chance, And He Knows It
After his part in compounding the national and state ineptitude that failed to deal quickly and effectively with Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin, a Democrat, campaigned ferociously for reelection to that post, and despite the predictions of many observers, myself included, he won reelection as Mayor, defeating his prominent opponent, Democrat Mitch Landrieu, in the Democratic primary.
Landrieu, the son of former New Orleans Democratic Mayor Moon Landrieu and brother of Louisiana's Democratic U.S. Senator, Mary Landrieu, was a tough, effective, and popular candidate. Yet, despite Katrina, Nagin defeated Landrieu for reelection as Mayor.
Nagin knows that second chances are rare in American politics, but he got one.
He is leading the charge for evacuation from New Orleans in the face of Hurricane Gustav, and rightfully so.
By being proactive, he can justify his reelection and the people's faith in giving him a second chance. If he is successful in helping his people, he could parlay the support into further political distinction in Louisiana politics.
If not, he is toast.
Landrieu, the son of former New Orleans Democratic Mayor Moon Landrieu and brother of Louisiana's Democratic U.S. Senator, Mary Landrieu, was a tough, effective, and popular candidate. Yet, despite Katrina, Nagin defeated Landrieu for reelection as Mayor.
Nagin knows that second chances are rare in American politics, but he got one.
He is leading the charge for evacuation from New Orleans in the face of Hurricane Gustav, and rightfully so.
By being proactive, he can justify his reelection and the people's faith in giving him a second chance. If he is successful in helping his people, he could parlay the support into further political distinction in Louisiana politics.
If not, he is toast.
McCain and Obama Monitor Gustav, Bush Makes Right Choice
I am pleased to see that President Bush is being proactive with regard to Hurricane Gustav's impending ferocity, and that he has chosen to stand with the frightened people of the Gulf Coast instead of attending the Republican National Convention in St.Paul. He finally has acknowledged his administration's terribly inept response to Hurrican Katrina, and the horrible aftermath it helped create.
Senator Obama and his staff have been in contact with first responders and the medical and evacuation officials along the Gulf Coast to offer whatever assistance that is needed, and Senator McCain has consulted with the Southern Governors along the storm's pathway both in person and through surrogates to offer assistance and guidance as well.
Both Democrats and Republicans must continue to acknowledge that when combatting a potential national disaster, unity works better than division.
Senator Obama and his staff have been in contact with first responders and the medical and evacuation officials along the Gulf Coast to offer whatever assistance that is needed, and Senator McCain has consulted with the Southern Governors along the storm's pathway both in person and through surrogates to offer assistance and guidance as well.
Both Democrats and Republicans must continue to acknowledge that when combatting a potential national disaster, unity works better than division.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Democratic Ticket Hits The Road
Acknowledging that they will not cede any region to the Republicans in the election of 2008, The Obama-Biden ticket left Denver and traveled to Beaver and Pittsburgh, PA to campaign in the working class areas of the Rust Belt that the Democrats must retain in their column, and that the Republicans covet. From there, the ticket will travel to both Ohio and Michigan on their Bus Tour with their wives, Michelle and Jill, to continue reaching out to the voters in need of inspiration and hope in this campaign.
Continuing their theme of being civil to their opponents on a personal level, the Obama-Biden ticket called to congratulate Gov. Sarah Palin of Alaska on her selection as John McCain's running mate, and welcomed her to the campaign of ideas.
The Democratic Ticket is wise to continue moving, working, speaking, inspiring, and delivering its message of hope for the future as the GOP officially nominates McCain-Palin in St. Paul this week.
I predict we will see a Republican Convention that rallies around The Alaska Governor as a candidate who is a reformer and a challenger of authority.
Continuing their theme of being civil to their opponents on a personal level, the Obama-Biden ticket called to congratulate Gov. Sarah Palin of Alaska on her selection as John McCain's running mate, and welcomed her to the campaign of ideas.
The Democratic Ticket is wise to continue moving, working, speaking, inspiring, and delivering its message of hope for the future as the GOP officially nominates McCain-Palin in St. Paul this week.
I predict we will see a Republican Convention that rallies around The Alaska Governor as a candidate who is a reformer and a challenger of authority.
Palin vs.Putin? I Don't Think So
On August 12, 2008 in Pennsylvania, John McCain accused Vladimir Putin of wanting to reestablish the old Soviet Empire. While I think he may be right, how does he prepare to face down the rising, reemerging Russian bear?
He picks a little known, zero foreign policy experience Alaska Governor to be one 72 year old heartbeat away from the presidency.
Tell us Senator, how is Governor Palin's ZERO experience better for us than Senator Obama's 4 year Senatorial experience dealing with international issues, and Senator Biden's 35 years.
Shame on you for pandering to women so blatantly.
He picks a little known, zero foreign policy experience Alaska Governor to be one 72 year old heartbeat away from the presidency.
Tell us Senator, how is Governor Palin's ZERO experience better for us than Senator Obama's 4 year Senatorial experience dealing with international issues, and Senator Biden's 35 years.
Shame on you for pandering to women so blatantly.
Gustav, He's A Comin'
America Beware!
Hurricane Gustav is approaching the Gulf Coast at breakneck speed as of this writing.
I mention it only because the Bush Team that brought you Hurricane Katrina: Preparation? What Preparation? is still in Washington with its crackerjack FEMA Team and poor response time.
Here's hoping that there will be some Gulf Coast left standing if Gustav hits. I would like to hope that our leaders learned their lesson, but they are preoccupied with retaining the White House and convincing America that Sarah Palin deserves to be the nation's next Vice-President.
After all, let's be fair. You can only keep so many balls in the air at one time.
Hurricane Gustav is approaching the Gulf Coast at breakneck speed as of this writing.
I mention it only because the Bush Team that brought you Hurricane Katrina: Preparation? What Preparation? is still in Washington with its crackerjack FEMA Team and poor response time.
Here's hoping that there will be some Gulf Coast left standing if Gustav hits. I would like to hope that our leaders learned their lesson, but they are preoccupied with retaining the White House and convincing America that Sarah Palin deserves to be the nation's next Vice-President.
After all, let's be fair. You can only keep so many balls in the air at one time.
John Edwards Should Take More Time
John Edwards is set to speak on issues at an event on September 8, 2008.
The legions of supporters who were with him in 2004 and 2008 are not yet ready to forgive the former Senator and Vice-Presidential nominee for the extramarital affair that betrayed his wife Elizabeth.
If Senator Edwards ever hopes to be considered an expert on his signature issue of fighting poverty again, then he must take more time to let the dust settle, and to respect his supporters and his wife enough to allow them to start the healing process with him.
One month is not enough time to do so.
The legions of supporters who were with him in 2004 and 2008 are not yet ready to forgive the former Senator and Vice-Presidential nominee for the extramarital affair that betrayed his wife Elizabeth.
If Senator Edwards ever hopes to be considered an expert on his signature issue of fighting poverty again, then he must take more time to let the dust settle, and to respect his supporters and his wife enough to allow them to start the healing process with him.
One month is not enough time to do so.
Friday, August 29, 2008
An Insult To Condi Rice
Though Secretary of State Rice would have brought tremendous liabilities to the McCain ticket in the form of the Bush foreign policy, she is a University of Denver Ph.D. in International Affairs with an M.A. from Notre Dame who served as provost, or chief financial officer of Stanford University for six years.
This is a woman who has run a huge academic corporation (Stanford), served as Assistant National Security Council Advisor under Brent Scowcroft in Bush I for Soviet/Russian Affairs, served as National Security Adv sor and Secretary of State.
The failure of Bush foreign policy could more readily be laid at the feet of Bush II, Cheney, and Rumsfeld.
Condi is appealing to the people of the South (she's from Alabama), to women (obviously), to people of color (obviously), and she espouses moderate Republican social views on issues like gay rights, guns, and affirmative action. Furthermore, as a resident of the state of California, a major Democratic stronghold currently run by The Arnold, Dr. Rice would have helped the Republicans put California in play in 2008.
It is true that Dr. Rice said she was uninterested in the role of Vice-President, but she also said the same in the past about the posts of National Security Advisor and Secretary of State.
A good Democrat-turned-Republican, a concert pianist, and the daughter of a Southern preacher who once LIVED in a church in Alabama, Condi should have been given the honor of being vetted on the McCain short list. Instead, she got a "thanks, but no thanks."
Whether McCain-Palin reaches the White House or not, one thing is certain-Sarah Palin's work in Alaska on issues like the Alaska landscape, oil drilling rights, and as the former Mayor of Wasilla (population 9,000) does not make her ready to stand toe-to-toe with the likes of Vladimir Putin, Hu Jintao, Kim Jong il, Mahmoud Abbas, Osama Bin Laden, Muqtada Al Sadir, Al Qaeda, the Iranian Theocracy, Saudi insurgents, Afghan tribal clashes, Hugo Chavez, and islamic fundamentalists worldwide.
Comparatively speaking, even with her flaws, Dr. Condoleeza Rice is ready to step into the presidency on Day One. Sarah Palin is not.
Ignoring her insults her, the Republican base, and those who want to believe that John McCain is a true reformer. Palin is a double at best among women. Several Republican women, including Dr. Condoleeza Rice, would have been a better possibility for a Homerun.
This is a woman who has run a huge academic corporation (Stanford), served as Assistant National Security Council Advisor under Brent Scowcroft in Bush I for Soviet/Russian Affairs, served as National Security Adv sor and Secretary of State.
The failure of Bush foreign policy could more readily be laid at the feet of Bush II, Cheney, and Rumsfeld.
Condi is appealing to the people of the South (she's from Alabama), to women (obviously), to people of color (obviously), and she espouses moderate Republican social views on issues like gay rights, guns, and affirmative action. Furthermore, as a resident of the state of California, a major Democratic stronghold currently run by The Arnold, Dr. Rice would have helped the Republicans put California in play in 2008.
It is true that Dr. Rice said she was uninterested in the role of Vice-President, but she also said the same in the past about the posts of National Security Advisor and Secretary of State.
A good Democrat-turned-Republican, a concert pianist, and the daughter of a Southern preacher who once LIVED in a church in Alabama, Condi should have been given the honor of being vetted on the McCain short list. Instead, she got a "thanks, but no thanks."
Whether McCain-Palin reaches the White House or not, one thing is certain-Sarah Palin's work in Alaska on issues like the Alaska landscape, oil drilling rights, and as the former Mayor of Wasilla (population 9,000) does not make her ready to stand toe-to-toe with the likes of Vladimir Putin, Hu Jintao, Kim Jong il, Mahmoud Abbas, Osama Bin Laden, Muqtada Al Sadir, Al Qaeda, the Iranian Theocracy, Saudi insurgents, Afghan tribal clashes, Hugo Chavez, and islamic fundamentalists worldwide.
Comparatively speaking, even with her flaws, Dr. Condoleeza Rice is ready to step into the presidency on Day One. Sarah Palin is not.
Ignoring her insults her, the Republican base, and those who want to believe that John McCain is a true reformer. Palin is a double at best among women. Several Republican women, including Dr. Condoleeza Rice, would have been a better possibility for a Homerun.
McCain-Palin Ticket Faces United Front
Senator John McCain and Governor Sarah Palin, while a unique pairing for unique times, face a united Democratic Party Juggernaut that is hungry for change, outraged by scandal, tired of West Wing exile, and connected to the pain of the country's poor, sick, overlooked, overworked, marginalized, and underpaid masses.
The combination of Al Gore's environmental prowess and long memory of 2000, John Kerry's disgust of attacks on his patriotism in 2004, Howard Dean's fanatical commitment to being competitive in all fifty states, Hillary Clinton's progressive Democratic army of women and middle class whites with something to prove, Bill Clinton's ability to frame a political argument and his desire to reinforce his legacy by helping the ticket in 2008, Joseph Biden's working class values, foreign policy expertise, and his street fighting/knife fighting love of a good political battle, and Barack Obama's groundbreaking rise to prominence and unifying message of overcoming the political divisions of the partisan past, makes for a coming Clash of the Titans of monumental proportions!
Who can McCain and Palin count on to back them up-big oil, big business, the most unpopular President in modern times, the Vice-President who has been called "the most secretive Vice-President in U.S. History," Condi, Rummy, Scooter, Karl rove, oh my!
The combination of Al Gore's environmental prowess and long memory of 2000, John Kerry's disgust of attacks on his patriotism in 2004, Howard Dean's fanatical commitment to being competitive in all fifty states, Hillary Clinton's progressive Democratic army of women and middle class whites with something to prove, Bill Clinton's ability to frame a political argument and his desire to reinforce his legacy by helping the ticket in 2008, Joseph Biden's working class values, foreign policy expertise, and his street fighting/knife fighting love of a good political battle, and Barack Obama's groundbreaking rise to prominence and unifying message of overcoming the political divisions of the partisan past, makes for a coming Clash of the Titans of monumental proportions!
Who can McCain and Palin count on to back them up-big oil, big business, the most unpopular President in modern times, the Vice-President who has been called "the most secretive Vice-President in U.S. History," Condi, Rummy, Scooter, Karl rove, oh my!
Other McCain Choices Would Have Been Better
Dear John,
What were you thinking?
Charlie Crist would have delivered Florida.
Mitt Romney passed a version of universal health care in Massachusetts.
Tom Ridge is a decorated veteran, and working class ex-govervor of Pennsylvania.
Joe Lieberman, the former Democrat, would have driven Democrats certifiably nuts.
Mike Huckabee is a darling of the Conservative Christian right-wing you badly need.
And, if the female gender really did catch your fancy, then what about Sen. Olympia Snowe of Maine, or Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas, two prominent Republican women with state experience AND familiarity in navigating the often fickle waters of international affairs?
Eat your wheaties and your prunes, John. And drink lots of juice. You'd better stay healthy, lest your choice finds herself in the deep end of the pool without a life preserver.
What were you thinking?
Charlie Crist would have delivered Florida.
Mitt Romney passed a version of universal health care in Massachusetts.
Tom Ridge is a decorated veteran, and working class ex-govervor of Pennsylvania.
Joe Lieberman, the former Democrat, would have driven Democrats certifiably nuts.
Mike Huckabee is a darling of the Conservative Christian right-wing you badly need.
And, if the female gender really did catch your fancy, then what about Sen. Olympia Snowe of Maine, or Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas, two prominent Republican women with state experience AND familiarity in navigating the often fickle waters of international affairs?
Eat your wheaties and your prunes, John. And drink lots of juice. You'd better stay healthy, lest your choice finds herself in the deep end of the pool without a life preserver.
Historic Veep Choice Could Be Bad For McCain
Though John McCain's selection of Governor Sarah Palin of Alaska as his running mate, a historic first for a Republican, does him some immediate good prior to his convention, the long term ramifications of the choice are frightening.
By selecting her, McCain relinquished his best weapon in the fight against Barack Obama-the argument that Obama does not have sufficient experience to be Commander-in -Chief. So his answer is to pick a Governor of an uncommon state with no experience at all in national issues to be one heartbeat away from the presidency. Experience is now off the table as a club to attack Obama.
Having a virtual unknown on the national stage as his running mate reignites the issue of McCain's age at just the wrong time. A 72 year old man weakened from years in captivity and already a cancer survivor several times over would have been better served by someone truly ready to stand toe-to-toe with the Chinese, the Russians, and Osama Bin Laden in the event of a President McCain's demise. Sarah Palin is not that person.
If this choice was supposed to capture the hearts and minds of Clinton supporters simply because she is a woman, Senator McCain misses the point. Clinton supporters won't flock to Palin because the issue is not that Palin is a woman, it's that she's not THE woman.
Fine governor, fine woman, fine mother, former fisherperson, pro-life Catholic, and spouse of an oil industry worker...but Vice-President of the United States?
By selecting her, McCain relinquished his best weapon in the fight against Barack Obama-the argument that Obama does not have sufficient experience to be Commander-in -Chief. So his answer is to pick a Governor of an uncommon state with no experience at all in national issues to be one heartbeat away from the presidency. Experience is now off the table as a club to attack Obama.
Having a virtual unknown on the national stage as his running mate reignites the issue of McCain's age at just the wrong time. A 72 year old man weakened from years in captivity and already a cancer survivor several times over would have been better served by someone truly ready to stand toe-to-toe with the Chinese, the Russians, and Osama Bin Laden in the event of a President McCain's demise. Sarah Palin is not that person.
If this choice was supposed to capture the hearts and minds of Clinton supporters simply because she is a woman, Senator McCain misses the point. Clinton supporters won't flock to Palin because the issue is not that Palin is a woman, it's that she's not THE woman.
Fine governor, fine woman, fine mother, former fisherperson, pro-life Catholic, and spouse of an oil industry worker...but Vice-President of the United States?
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Former President Draws a Line in the Sand
Former President Bill Clinton drew the clearest distinction yet between a possible McCain Presidency and a possible Obama Presidency in his remarks earlier this evening at the Democratic National Convention in Denver.
Reiterating his wife's message of support for Senator Obama's bid from last night, Bill Clinton reminded Democrats, Independents, and all Americans that a successful foreign policy means understanding and utilizing diplomacy, that four more years of Bush-style economic policies geared only to the wealthiest among us will not grow the economy or expand the middle class innovators who are the driving engine of progress in America, and that "people have always been moved more by the power of our example than by the example of our power."
By urging all Democrats to unite behind Barack Obama and to take the fight to John McCain, Bill Clinton proved once again that only together can Democrats become a united force for change, and that we should "still believe in a place called Hope."
Reiterating his wife's message of support for Senator Obama's bid from last night, Bill Clinton reminded Democrats, Independents, and all Americans that a successful foreign policy means understanding and utilizing diplomacy, that four more years of Bush-style economic policies geared only to the wealthiest among us will not grow the economy or expand the middle class innovators who are the driving engine of progress in America, and that "people have always been moved more by the power of our example than by the example of our power."
By urging all Democrats to unite behind Barack Obama and to take the fight to John McCain, Bill Clinton proved once again that only together can Democrats become a united force for change, and that we should "still believe in a place called Hope."
John's still thinking
Will it be Mitt, Charlie, Bobby, Haley, Tom, Colin, Sarah, Condi, Tim, Mike, Jeb, Rick, Kay, or ...?
Who knows? John McCain knows!
Who knows? John McCain knows!
Homerun for Hillary
To her credit, Senator Hillary Clinton did what she needed to do on the second night of the Democratic National Convention-she expressed her unapolegetic support of Senator Barack Obama and his running mate Joe Biden, and she urged those who supported her during the campaign to do the same. She took aim at John McCain and his uncanny resemblance to President George W. Bush in this election cycle, and she united the wings of the Democratic Party. She will now work on behalf of the ticket, as all good Democrats should.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
The Obvious Choice for McCain?
In addition to the vast list of contenders to join Senator McCain's ticket mentioned in my previous posting, one should also be conscious of the nationwide movement that has sprung up around the possibility of Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney joining the ticket.
He would bring business and economic experience to the Republican ticket, shoring up McCain's admitted weaknesses in these areas, and would no doubt project the family man theme that was a major part of his 2008 presidential bid, which, luckily for the Republicans, happens to be true.
His appeal to fellow Mormons would bring many of those voters into the process, and his victory in securing a version of universal health coverage in Massachusetts while Governor there could help the GOP win Independents and some disaffected Democrats.
On the flip side, Romney wrote the book on shifting political positions in the 2008 race, second only to John McCain himself, some would say. A Vice-Presidential FlipFlopper joining the Panderer -in-Chief on the Republican ticket might NOT create the desired effect.
Nonetheless, John McCain is nobody's fool, and to not consider Romney would be a mistake for him. Romney's youth and vitality alone make him a supremely attractive candidate for serious examination.
He would bring business and economic experience to the Republican ticket, shoring up McCain's admitted weaknesses in these areas, and would no doubt project the family man theme that was a major part of his 2008 presidential bid, which, luckily for the Republicans, happens to be true.
His appeal to fellow Mormons would bring many of those voters into the process, and his victory in securing a version of universal health coverage in Massachusetts while Governor there could help the GOP win Independents and some disaffected Democrats.
On the flip side, Romney wrote the book on shifting political positions in the 2008 race, second only to John McCain himself, some would say. A Vice-Presidential FlipFlopper joining the Panderer -in-Chief on the Republican ticket might NOT create the desired effect.
Nonetheless, John McCain is nobody's fool, and to not consider Romney would be a mistake for him. Romney's youth and vitality alone make him a supremely attractive candidate for serious examination.
PoliForum: A New Place for Enlightened and Intelligent Dialogue
You have entered the realm of the PoliForum, where there is a continual, conscious commitment to equal opportunity- equal opportunity to discuss and analyze current events, public policy, and domestic and international affairs in a civil, respectful and honorable way. Courtesy, decency, and dignity are the coins of the realm in the PoliForum.
As the first night of the 2008 Democratic National Convention has just drawn to a close, members of the Democratic Party can be proud of three things:
As the first night of the 2008 Democratic National Convention has just drawn to a close, members of the Democratic Party can be proud of three things:
- The articulate and genuine speech of Mrs. Michelle Obama, further introducing her husband and her family to the American people. She showed poise, stage presence, intelligence, wit, charm, commitment, and class. She paid tribute to the Dream of Dr. King, to the accomplishments of Senator Hillary Clinton, and to the dedication of her mother and father. She painted a portrait for the delegates in the hall and the citizens at home of her love for her husband, and for the partnership they share.
- The inspirational appearance of Senator Edward M. Kennedy of Massachusetts, and the uplifting message of hope that he believes Barack Obama represents for new generations of Americans. Clearly, all loyal Democrats of all varieties stand shoulder to shoulder with the "Lion of the U.S. Senate" as he faces a serious health problem with courage and optimism. Despite his personal challenges, Ted Kennedy fired up the troops, calling on them to follow the vision of Barack Obama the way that so many followed the dreams of his brother, President John F. Kennedy, as they entered into lives of public service.
- The inspired choice last Saturday, August 23,2008, of Delaware U.S. Senator Joseph R. Biden, Jr. by Senator Obama as the 2008 Democratic Vice-Presidential running mate. Senator Biden's presence in the convention hall last night served as a rallying point for Democrats in Denver and across the nation as they seek to carry forward the Obama-Biden message of change for America. His working class roots and his appeal to Catholics, women, and middle class voters in the rust belt and the mid-atlantic, coupled with his vast experience in foreign policy and constitutional jurisprudence as the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and past Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, make him the right man to join Barack Obama during this crucial time in American history.
But, not to be outdone, presumptive Republican nominee Senator John McCain also continues to captivate the American people with his own Vice-Presidential search. The possibilities are an impressive list of contenders, including:
- Governor Charlie Crist (R-FL)
- Governor Tim Pawlenty (R-MN)
- Governor Haley Barbour (R-MS)
- Governor Bobby Jindal (R-LA)
- Governor Sarah Palin (R-Alaska)
- Former Governor Mike Huckabee (R-Ark)
- Former Governor Tom Ridge (R-PA)
- Governor Rick Perry (R-TX)
- Secretary of State Dr. Condoleeza Rice
- Former Secretary of State Colin Powell
- General David Petraeus
- Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX)
- Senator Joseph Lieberman (I-CT)
- Senator George Voinevich (R-OH)
- Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC)
- Senator Elizabeth Dole (R-NC)
- Former Senator Fred Thompson (R- TN)
- Former Hewlitt-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina
- Former Governor Jeb Bush (R-FL)
- Senator John Cornyn (R-TX)
Who will it be? Only Senator McCain knows, and you can bet he will do exactly what Senator Obama did-savor the element of mystery surrounding his choice as long as possible, maximize the effectiveness and derive as much political capital as possible from his selection. Any of the aforementioned choices would complement a McCain ticket well, and would fill in for his obvious weaknesses on economic issues, immigration policy, and understanding the plight of citizens whose spouses are not the heirs to beer fortunes. The McCain running mate will strengthen the GOP ticket, presumably, the way that Senator Biden does for Senator Obama in the area of foreign policy.
So, I hope to see you here in the PoliForum, where empowering thought is the ultimate goal.
With regard to the 2008 election, as they used to say-Let the games begin.
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