Election Central Sunday Roundup
Paris Hilton's Mother Objects To McCain Ad
Paris Hilton's mother Kathy Hilton -- who has donated $2,300 to John McCain -- has responded to McCain's new ad using her daughter as a means of attacking Barack Obama. "It is a complete waste of the money John McCain's contributors have donated to his campaign," Mrs. Hilton writes for the Huffington Post.
Both Candidates Off The Trail Today
Neither Barack Obama nor John McCain have any public events scheduled for today. But don't think they're taking the day off: They'll likely be spending today actively strategizing and/or raising money.
McCain: We'll Respond If Obama Accuses Us Of Racism
John McCain made it clear that his campaign will continue to fire back at Barack Obama if they are accused of race-baiting against him. "We're not gonna allow racism to come into this campaign in any form," McCain told ABC News. "And so I'm gonna respond if it comes up again."
Lieberman: Obama "A Good Young Man"
Appearing today on Meet The Press, Joe Lieberman defended the Paris/Britney ad as "cute," and said the intention to raise questions about Obama's readiness for the presidency. "This is a good young man," Lieberman said. "Is he ready to lead or as ready as John McCain? The answer is no."
Obama Defends Shift On Drilling
Speaking to reporters yesterday, Barack Obama defended his shift on offshore drilling -- from opposing it to supporting a larger energy compromise proposal that includes it: "If we can come up with a genuine bipartisan compromise, in which I have to accept some things that I don't like, or the Democrats have to accept some things that they don't like in exchange for actually moving us in the direction of actual energy independence, then that's something I'm open to."
Obama's Long Indiana Stop Has Press Wondering About Bayh For VP
Press speculation seems to be growing about Evan Bayh as Barack Obama's running mate, due to an extra-long campaign stop in Indiana this week. Obama campaign spokesman Robert Gibbs told NBC that this is simply evidence that Indiana is a competitive state this year.
Report: McCain Team Vetting Eric Cantor For VP
The Associated Press reports that the McCain campaign is actively vetting Virginia Rep. Eric Cantor for vice president. Picking the ultra-conservative and Jewish Cantor would potentially help McCain among Jewish voters as well as right-wing activists -- and set up an interesting scenario if Barack Obama were to pick Virginia Governor Tim Kaine, giving the campaign two tickets where the running mates hail from the same state.
Ya'll need to check out this video at the Jed Report:
http://www.jedreport.com/2008/08/what-happened.html
I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. If Obama acted like this, his campaign would be over.
August 3, 2008 12:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
And to think this old senile joke is gaining in polls in a "Year of Democrats", just after Obama's victorious and sold-out tour.
Something is REALLY REALLY wrong with either Obama or America if McCain can keep the race as tight as he does.
Correction: nothing is ever be wrong with Obama.
August 3, 2008 12:58 PM | Reply | Permalink
And how much airplay do you think this is going to get from McCain's "base", i.e., the MSM? They're too busy licking the sauce off of their finger's from McCain's latest party.
August 3, 2008 1:10 PM | Reply | Permalink
He isn't gaining nothing, it's all statistical noise, well within the margin of error. Obama is still cleaning up shop electorally- that's the big picture.
August 3, 2008 2:36 PM | Reply | Permalink
How you can even talk about "margin of error" so contentedly when comparing the two of them is beyond me.
Who does it take to win against McCain in a landslide??
August 3, 2008 2:52 PM | Reply | Permalink
A country that isn't so divided down partisan lines for one. Second, none of the polls are taking into account what will be massive Democratic turnout this year- just look at the primaries. All the polls are basing there numbers off of historical data from elections past, which is not going to compare to the turnout this year. The polls are not giving the whole picture here- which works out great for the media. They want a close race. Finally, a percentage point or so is going into Obama's column in the fall for all the people who have cellphones only. The demo. of young, no landliners is solidly Obama, I would guess.
August 3, 2008 3:06 PM | Reply | Permalink
Part of what's wrong with America, is that the MSM won't show this video to the American people. If it were Obama, it would be all over cable, and perhaps the morning news shows.
August 3, 2008 9:53 PM | Reply | Permalink
Wow, that is the true McCain. Scary as hell.
August 3, 2008 1:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
That is devastating, no wonder they have been restricting his access to the press.
That is going to make some wingnuts look for alternatives at the convention. But then republicans have been comfortable with doddering old figureheads before. Then it will make the VP selection even more crucial. Who would be McCain's version of Cheney?
August 3, 2008 1:36 PM | Reply | Permalink
The sleazy ads and his surrogates are all standing in for him. These clips are so revealing. He's in total brain-freeze. It would be sad in any other context.
CindyMax
August 3, 2008 1:47 PM | Reply | Permalink
Why didn't the American people get to see that is also a question the MSM needs to be asked. Is he ready to lead???
August 3, 2008 12:51 PM | Reply | Permalink
Rep. Cantor would actually be a really solid pick for McCain. Mark Warner said that Cantor would have been his hardest competition for the Senate seat had Cantor ran for it.
If an Obama surrogate said McCain is "a nice old man" but is too old to lead - How well do you think that would have went over?
The Hilton's donations to the McCain campaign went towards slandering their daughter, making her a political tool and a punchline. I guess there is no such thing as bad publicity though. Besides it could actually raise her image if she is being compared to a Harvard educated magna cum laude graduate, constitutional law lecturer sitting United States Senator.
The McCain"Obama Dollar Bill" ad is finally making it's way around the lefty blogs, but it's not getting any mainstream play, and likely never will as the MSM doesn't want to admit their mistake and besides it's pretty much old news now.
Obama's "Shift" is that he didn't like off-shore drilling before and doesn't like it now. However he's not running for King of America and has to work with the House and Senate and compromises need to made.
Bayh would be a mistake, however he is Bill Clinton's golden boy, so it's probably the best Clintonite reach-out without actually picking Sen. Clinton herself. Bayh was probably a lock to be Hillary's VP.
I want Biden, or a "why didn't I think of that" surprise pick for Obama's VP at this point.
August 3, 2008 12:55 PM | Reply | Permalink
Can't stand bayh. Boring. Also, some of his positions, like on the Iraq war are completely counter to obama. I think he would be a horrible pick.
I don't like biden as vp either. Apparently, he wanted to go on the iraq trip, but obama was afraid that he would out shine obama on foreign policy. He would be a risky pick with his foot in mouth disease and I think that he might over emphasize obama's alleged inexperience.
I'm with you on the "why didn't I think of that" surprise pick at this point. I don't like any of the front runners.
Cantor would be an excellent pick for mcbush. I hope he doesn't pick him. I'd rather see mcbush pick someone like ted stevens or Imoefe from oklahoma. Another old and crotchety gas bag would be the ideal pick for mcbush.
August 3, 2008 1:05 PM | Reply | Permalink
Exactly:
McCain-Stevens '08~
Keating who?
August 4, 2008 12:58 AM | Reply | Permalink
I agree Bayh was a lock for Hillary VP. I still think he will be Obama's VP choice also. He seems to balance change/experience needs of Obama. And Indiana is a swing state. If Obama win the Kerry states and then wins Iowa and Indiana...he is President.
August 3, 2008 1:09 PM | Reply | Permalink
Bayh was the dem head of the "bipartisan" senate group in favor of bombing iraq into oblivion and was one of the leaders of the "charge" in the senate. Also, he sucks on the stump. Fuggettaboutit.
August 3, 2008 1:14 PM | Reply | Permalink
FYI Eric: first link is not to HuffPo but to an OpenSecrets search page about Hiltons.
August 3, 2008 1:01 PM | Reply | Permalink
Will someone in the traditional ever realize that John McCain was the person who first used Obama's likeness on a 100 dollar bill, and then ask McCain if that's racist?
If commenting on it is racist, isn't doing it in the first place racist?
August 3, 2008 1:02 PM | Reply | Permalink
I disagree. McCain's campaign tricked Obama into a classic bait: a series of comparisons to highlight his vanity and self-obsession.
Obama has responded to only one of these comparisons and his response was identical to the way he warned people about his race being used just a day earlier ("And did I mention he's black?") talking directly about Bush/McCain.
So he stepped right into it on his own, and he did it in a very foolish and clumsy way.
And that opened the door for McCain to accuse him of hiding behind his race. Even Donna Brazile, one of his most famous groupies, admitted today on George Steph that "maybe he misspoke a little bit".
August 3, 2008 1:08 PM | Reply | Permalink
Shocking.
August 3, 2008 1:11 PM | Reply | Permalink
That's obviously all you have to say. No surprises.
August 3, 2008 1:18 PM | Reply | Permalink
Do I need to say more? You need help m'friend.
August 4, 2008 12:03 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm talking about factual information that's being omitted from the discussion. McCain used the imagery first, Obama incorporated it into his stump speeches, and McCain starts bleating "racism".
Whether you interpret this as Obama "falling for something" (and it's obvious that no matter what Obama does, that's how you're going to view it) or not, the entire sequence needs to be out there.
August 3, 2008 1:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
Actually, it's a way that the crowd seems to respond to, so here's hoping he continues using it.
August 3, 2008 1:31 PM | Reply | Permalink
Do you recall how, somewhere near the end of the primary, some phrase Clinton had used against Obama started getting boos from crowds and how they turned that on her?
Like this is anything different than Obama and/or Plouffe expected? Come on.
August 3, 2008 1:39 PM | Reply | Permalink
I hope he (Obama) continues to use it too, and refinines it for more punch value. This is a very clever strategy by McCain campaign to silence Obama. Lookit, if they run him off by accusing him of playing the race card, when they (McCain campaign) themselves used it first, they will beat him like a rug with this from now 'til Nov.
August 3, 2008 5:07 PM | Reply | Permalink
It's the context. McCain's ad was about Obama's presumptuousness, whereas Obama's remark was referencing his "different-ness".
Of course stripped down they are both racial attacks because McCain and his weekly radio addresses, his meetings with foreign leaders and his calling himself "President McCain" in early ads was never called presumptuous or arrogant by the talking heads who are just echoing GOP talking points that are delivered to their in-boxes daily.
Deconstructing McCain's attack ads, Obama was exactly right that they're making him out to be the risky pick, and since they'e not talking about his policy issues why is he risky? Why was the words "More Foreign" on the screen beside an Obama picture when the ad voice over was talking about foreign oil?
Why does Joe Lieberman comment that everybody should "relax and enjoy it" referencing the Hilton/Spears ad? His choice of words wasn't off-the-cuff.
August 3, 2008 1:11 PM | Reply | Permalink
It was obvious to me that Lieberman was paraphrasing that old quote (sorry, I can't recall the source) that goes something like, "If you're going to be raped and you can't stop it, you might as well relax and enjoy it."
Particularly in light of some tasteless jokes that have been attributed to McCain, he and Lieberman should have been hammered over this.
August 3, 2008 1:39 PM | Reply | Permalink
He seems completely oblivious to the subtext. He used the word "relax" in reference to the ad again this morning.
CM
August 3, 2008 1:51 PM | Reply | Permalink
Also Lieberman describing Obama as a "good young man." How patronizing is that? And just short of calling him "boy," as the Kentucky congressman did a few weeks back.
August 3, 2008 1:59 PM | Reply | Permalink
That's awful. I didn't see that. Do these people have any conscience? They have to be rotting inside.
August 3, 2008 2:04 PM | Reply | Permalink
That's McCain's next speech: "I'm a experienced man and he's a callow youth. Can you run the risk of putting a boy in the White House?"
What? You find that offensive - even racist? You Obamaniacs are always playing the Race Card!
August 3, 2008 4:16 PM | Reply | Permalink
Republican candidate Clayton Williams of Texas, running against Ann Richards for governor, told the "if rape is inevitable, relax and enjoy it" joke to some reporters and it was blamed for helping sink his lead and lose the election.
Times have changed.
August 3, 2008 7:11 PM | Reply | Permalink
I just googled the line and learned that CT Voter attributed the quote to Bobby Knight in a comment to a Greg post on 7/31. I apparently missed that one. Tip of the hat to CT Voter and Greg.
August 3, 2008 2:07 PM | Reply | Permalink
"Change you can make it Photoshop" is racist?
Maybe it's a play on Planet of the Apes... That would be real racist.
Or it could simply play on his so-called vanity. 4 Obama's on Mt Rushmore, ie I'm bigger than all these presidents combined...
August 3, 2008 1:15 PM | Reply | Permalink
LOLOLOLOL!!!!!!
There is something just hysterically funny about you trying to define "racism" with that avatar and your generaly cluelessness.
If you aren't a parody troll, you're really missing a bet.
August 3, 2008 1:41 PM | Reply | Permalink
"compromises need to made" seems to have replaced "change we can believe in". Evan Bayh would certainly be an ideal candidate for that strategy.
August 3, 2008 1:03 PM | Reply | Permalink
A less cynical view would be that Tim Kaine is the best fit for VP because he and Obama strive for consensus in governing, not exclusion.
They understand that governing is not about my way or the highway, you're either with us or against us. They understand that the wars, the economy, and all the critical issues are part of a complex, larger dynamic.
Sound governing that leads to long-lasting solutions gives representatives for all stakeholders a seat at the decision-making table. I do not understand why this philosophy is so anathema to a disturbingly large number of otherwise thoughtful, intelligent people!
CindyMax
August 3, 2008 1:33 PM | Reply | Permalink
Compromise and consensus -- code for two guys traveling down the Republican highway BUT with the added difference governing comes with a song and friendly smile.
Nope sorry ain't buying it - I'm a Democrat last time I checked. Compromise = caving.
August 3, 2008 8:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
No compromise = gridlock
August 3, 2008 9:01 PM | Reply | Permalink
Not necessarily... if according to all the models Democrats get a sizable majority to actually get democratic legislation through.
But then there's the caveat -- are we actually aiming to recruit actual Democrats -- or is the compromise argument just an excuse to shove more republican legislation down liberals and progressives throats?
August 3, 2008 9:07 PM | Reply | Permalink
A democratic majority in both houses would certainly lessen the need for seeking common ground and reaching consensus. Common ground would already be established.
Because of the hostility between dems and repugs the past 16 or so years, until there are 60 democratic votes in the senate, consensus seeking is the only way toward progress, albeit incrementally.
If we get the 60 votes in the Senate and keep or gain seats in the House and land the presidency, then we will be on the fast track to real progress and undoing the damage that's been so wantonly inflicted on our country.
BTW, you seem to question my progressiveness. I supported Kucinich until he dropped out of the race. Some people don't like this, but IMHO, long-term goals of real lasting value are worth compromises in the short-term. A reasoned approach rather than an emotional one.
CindyMax
August 3, 2008 9:38 PM | Reply | Permalink
incrementally in which direction?
...and no I wasn't questioning your "progressiveness" I was just stating my observations and interpretation of what I see as the current use of "compromise" and "consensus".
August 3, 2008 9:58 PM | Reply | Permalink
Sand, Incremental or a phasing in of affordable health care for all; restoring safeguards to our environment; funding for college education or technical training; job re-training; expanded Head Start; child care for working parents; grants for alternative energy R&D to get it out of the hands of the oil companies; much needed infrastructure renewal which will also create jobs and stimulate the economy; and restructuring of our financial system. That's just off the top of my head.
CindyMax
August 3, 2008 11:31 PM | Reply | Permalink
Nice ideas, campaign plugs, but... please keep this in mind...
for example, both Obama and Hillary are for private health 'insurance' plans which if the current incremental plans are anything to go by will be definitely bonus to corporations and are definitely not based a model to phase 'everyone' in. Sorry to burst that bubble but it's not even on the horizon realistically.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/07/us/07medicare.html?_r=1&hp=&oref=slogin&pagewanted=all
College education, for what kind of jobs? When both candidates are still pro-globalization trade deals like NAFTA, where outsourcing of tech jobs will continue to be the norm. Child care, before family planning? -- same republican-lite framing.
Have you recently checked the $$$ going into the Democratic party from the oil and energy companies -- how many people from the Democratic Party are leaving to go into K-Street?
Gotta be realistic and not to fall completely into the spin.
August 4, 2008 12:16 AM | Reply | Permalink
I don't like that phrasing, "using [Paris Hilton] as a means of attacking Barack Obama." This ad has gotten McCain more attention than anything else he's done since winning the nomination, so let's call a spade a spade: McCain is using Paris Hilton as a means of promoting himself. This is the supreme hypocrisy of the thing. Barack Obama is his own man; McCain can only be noticed by tying himself to celebrities: that country music superstar; Paris Hilton; and, in better time, the President of the United States. If they didn't always get away with it I'd be surprised he can get away with it.
August 3, 2008 1:08 PM | Reply | Permalink
Regarding Cantor, being a strong competition for Virginia senate doesn't make him a strong VP candidate. The main issue with him is that McCain will be asked "Is Cantor ready to be President" and if he says he is, then that destroys all of his attacks on Obama for not being ready. And if he says he isn't ready yet, then given McCain's age it becomes "can we vote for your ticket if Cantor isn't ready".
August 3, 2008 1:21 PM | Reply | Permalink
Funny, Obama NEVER accused McCain of race-baiting (even though he clearly is), in fact he said he didn't think he was. The only one to bring race into the general election has been McCain and his people, period.
August 3, 2008 1:26 PM | Reply | Permalink
I had a feeling Paris Hilton's people would respond. As out of control as she seems, she has PR people, and not everything she does is random, by any means.
And I didn't think the Hiltons would like anything about this.
Hee! I think that's funny.
August 3, 2008 1:35 PM | Reply | Permalink
She's managed to keep the story alive for another day.
August 3, 2008 2:00 PM | Reply | Permalink
True, particularly since the ad belittles Spears and Hilton as airheads and then links them to Obama trying for the Bimbofication of Obama. As a good mom, Mrs. Hilton had to speak out against the ad. Now if only she'd give money to Obama. That would be a beautiful full circle. ;)
August 3, 2008 5:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
The verbal pause in Panama City...maybe I am being overly optimistic but this could seriously hurt Mcinsane in the membrane...
http://www.jedreport.com/2008/08/what-happened.html
August 3, 2008 1:37 PM | Reply | Permalink
Overly optimistic I think. I doubt the MSM will touch this at all. Unless it becomes a viral sensation.
August 3, 2008 1:44 PM | Reply | Permalink
So then it should become a viral sensation. We need to commit to making this happen. The general public deserves to know that this happens.
Get it out there!
August 3, 2008 2:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
Ben Smith of Politico has linked to it.
August 3, 2008 3:12 PM | Reply | Permalink
Can you link the Ben Smith thing CT? I went to politico and I couldn't find it on his blogs because I am apparently only slightly better at the internets than McCain is.
August 3, 2008 3:40 PM | Reply | Permalink
Nevermind, I found it. Hooray.
August 3, 2008 3:49 PM | Reply | Permalink
I still can not get over, Senator's Obama position on offshore drilling, this is to me really stupid. It does not make sense at all.
I do hope he is going to reflect on this, and fight this.
My next fear is that Senator Obama would pick Senator Clinton as VP. The media has a new spin on this, especially Gergen...
He indicated that if Senator Obama wants to win, he will need to pck Clinot, because he would get a leverage of 8 points according to the Fox news latest poll...
This is to me ridiculous, I do hope Senator Obama will lose his principles and his message of change...As for Bayh, I don't think it is possible because of his view on Irak.
August 3, 2008 1:40 PM | Reply | Permalink
You can't? Man, there is no easier thing to understand, if you roam the countryside with your head out of your ass. Off-shore drilling and ANWR drilling are majority positions in this country. Ask a neighbor what they would think about it - 9 will get you 10 they will say - drill already.
Sorry.
August 3, 2008 1:44 PM | Reply | Permalink
Tena is right. I have heard no one say NOT to drill. The American public, rather than deciding to face the facts and get serious about alternative energy, immediately cries for relief, screw the coral reefs and the wildlife. I need to fill up my 4x4.
August 3, 2008 3:44 PM | Reply | Permalink
60% of Floridians buy into the fallacy that drilling off our coasts will ease gas prices.
Obama has stated he would consider offshore drilling as part of a comprehensive energy strategy. Considering something is not the same as making a commitment to it. His position acknowledges public opinion while giving him wiggle room. I think it's smart.
CM
August 3, 2008 2:00 PM | Reply | Permalink
Plus, each individual state would need to approve drilling off its coast, and in many places that's a non-starter. So it's a concession from Obama that would have little or no impact in terms of actual drilling, and the compromise package that it's part of advances the ball on other fronts.
August 3, 2008 2:23 PM | Reply | Permalink
Well said, Ann Arbor.
August 3, 2008 2:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
His stated position, the way he worded it and conditions that would be made, like states rights, etc., was well done.
August 3, 2008 3:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
Because the Democrats' idea of compromise (in case you hadn't noticed lately) is to give the Republicans whatever they want, especially if they bellow loudly about it. What do the Dems get in return? The hope that the issue is then 'taken off the table'. (Of course, they then get pilloried by the media as being 'flipfloppers' and 'divided'.)
It's like freakin' Groundhog Day with this crew. Have they learned nothing about how Repubs operate over the past decade?
August 3, 2008 7:40 PM | Reply | Permalink
C'mon, what is he giving up in the energy deal? That's the whole point. It's an incredibly shrewd compromise.
The only downside is that it leaves him open to criticism like this. He can't come out and say, "Look, this isn't really going to change anything on offshore drilling for reasons X and Y," because then the people on the other side of the table would realize how little they're getting.
August 3, 2008 9:26 PM | Reply | Permalink
Of course. President Obama and a 56-Dem Senate and a 240-Dem House still have to compromise and concede another position that they had previously drawn a line against. And when that happens, what do you think the minority Repubs do again when it comes to drilling in ANWR, or any of their pet issues? The whole drilling thing is monumentally bogus, but they'll filibuster their agenda in as effectively as if they were the majority.
I just think it's hilarious how our side bends over backwards to accommodate a truly stupid and damaging exercise of giving more money to Big Oil and their Republican enablers. We're so afraid that they'll filibuster that we're willing to give in on one thing after another. And I'll believe the shrewdness to the compromise when I see a truly revolutionary energy policy set in motion in the process. Until then, this whole thing reeks to me of panicked, miscalculating cave-in.
August 4, 2008 12:00 AM | Reply | Permalink
Realistic Obama VP's:
-Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (Kansas)-bipartisanship, crossing the aisle, getting gov. to work/economy cred, education cred
-Gov. Brian Schweitzer (Montana)- Big Energy/Working class cred, knows Arabic, libertarian, up for reelection though :(
-Former Gov. Ray Mabus (Mississippi)- Bill Clinton lite, economic and education cred, foreign policy expert.
-Senator Russ Feingold (Wisconsin)- change, reforming politics, libertarian, foreign policy exp., budget hawk
August 3, 2008 1:43 PM | Reply | Permalink
?
August 3, 2008 1:44 PM | Reply | Permalink
Has Feingold or Mabus been vetted? How about Edwards out of Texas?
August 3, 2008 1:52 PM | Reply | Permalink
Hard to say, it's all been pretty tightly wrapped up. Personally, I don't think anyone's off the table and I think lots of decoys are being floated because the press is just nuts over this. Namely, Bayh and Kaine.
August 3, 2008 2:01 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yes, Chet Edwards has been vetted.
August 3, 2008 9:04 PM | Reply | Permalink
I revisted Mabus last night. He is damn impressive as a possibility.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ray_Mabus
August 3, 2008 3:59 PM | Reply | Permalink
Thanks for the link. Impressive indeed! I like him way better than Edwards.
August 3, 2008 9:44 PM | Reply | Permalink
Ray Mabus looks very strong, even to this Chet Edwards fan.
Being a former governor as opposed to a member of Congress is a plus, and the ambassadorship to Saudi Arabia is also a big plus.
Don't know the guy. What is his downside?
August 4, 2008 9:34 AM | Reply | Permalink
Schweitzer for VP! He's my pick, absolutely positively.
August 3, 2008 8:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
OOps see it up there wow I am a sharp sausage
August 3, 2008 1:43 PM | Reply | Permalink
The Bayh thing is a head fake: no way will he go with a longtime Washington pol with a long political family legacy.
If he's going to be announcing in South Bend, it's probably more likely to be South Bend native Tim Roemer. The last time Obama was in South Bend he was introduced by Roemer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NT2zQUxVE2Y
August 3, 2008 1:45 PM | Reply | Permalink
I've been thinking the same thing. Roemer campaigned hard for Obama, and he and his son played basketball with Obama on the trail. He also gifted Obama a book about Robert Kennedy in Indiana during the primaries. Ambinder was high on Roemer as Obama VP back in April, though speculation cooled after that.
He's Catholic, was on the 9/11 Commission (and helped to create it), and heads the Center for National Policy. He is pro-life, though, which would be interesting. He's probably more to the right on some issues than some Dems would like.
But there is consonance with Obama. He's moderate on free trade, has a pretty strong record on education, and sponsored the creation of AmeriCorps (which would reinforce Obama's plans on national service). He's 51: not too old, not too young. And he has solid experience while also not being seen so much as a part of the Washington machine right now.
He also has a history of support from Pelosi and Reid. I think he lives in Virginia today.
This pick would have some surprise factor, while not being totally off the radar. It's an interesting possibility . . .
August 3, 2008 6:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
Why does it feel like Obama's campaign is holding its fire on Mccain until after the convention?
August 3, 2008 1:49 PM | Reply | Permalink
Because he has more money, more resources and better organization. The convention speech will be his argument for the presidency. The debates will be the battle of ideas. But the ground game is the defining aspect of this election.
This McCain ads will blow over him and he can't go back to offer proposals. Obama is waiting the right moment to attack. Sun Tzu said it better than me:
“Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory. Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.”
The drilling change is not a flip-flop like McCain's, because is part of a compromise done by others (Gang of 10) and he doubts drilling will work. For the VP spot is difficult to say, but the Clark option is winning me over. Yet I don't think is going to happen. Biden won't be so bad.
Kaine and Bayh doesn't do anything for me.
August 3, 2008 6:42 PM | Reply | Permalink
That quote's a keeper. Thanks.
August 3, 2008 9:49 PM | Reply | Permalink
Tena, this is pure rubbish, I am very smart and intelligent,
Anyone knows that drilling is not the response. IT WONT'T REDUCE THE COST, IT IS NOT SAFE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, AND IT WON'T PRODUCE ANY OIL WITHIN 10 to 15 YEARS
BY THE WAY, YOU DON'T NEED TO USE RUDE LANGUAGE TO EXPRESS YOUR OPINION.
August 3, 2008 1:50 PM | Reply | Permalink
"Anyone knows that drilling is not the response. "
That's unfortunately not the case at all.
August 3, 2008 2:01 PM | Reply | Permalink
Boy, you said it.
If you're informed on the issue, you know drilling isn't the solution. Most people simply don't have that kind of time to be knowledgeable about our energy options. They know that gas is expensive, and they think we can get our own oil off our own coastlines, and this will bring down the price of gas this year.
psmdsfc? I don't know that shouting back at Tena is going to convince her of anything.
August 3, 2008 2:10 PM | Reply | Permalink
They can drill on 68 million acres which have been environmentally approved, according to Pelosi this A.M. It appears, however, that they won't be satisfied unless they can have it ALL.
CM
August 3, 2008 2:14 PM | Reply | Permalink
I don't like the thought of drilling myself.
However, like Obama, I could handle some, limited drilling IF, and only IF, we also get going working on some real, realistic, renewable energy sources as well.
This would be bipartisanship, something which is completely foreign to us after the last 8 plus years.
August 3, 2008 2:07 PM | Reply | Permalink
offshore may not do any off that and i agree, however the compromise does a few of things: in the compromise we can now mass produce fuel efficient cars and trucks 2. we can now produce alt. energy for ex. wind and solar 3. it take this talking point away from mccain............ sometimes we need to look at the bigger picture than focus on one....................
August 3, 2008 2:10 PM | Reply | Permalink
Fuck you - don't yell at me.
I'm not advocating for drilling - I'm point out what I believe to be the reality right now. Most people would love to see drilling immediately if they thought it would lower the price of fuel. And they are told that it could - by the GOP - not by me.
August 3, 2008 2:22 PM | Reply | Permalink
and goddamn it, this should have posted right the fuck below psm's comment yelling at me.
August 3, 2008 2:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
Would like to add, that we are all, as a country going to have to make some tough choices in the coming years. We're all going to have to sacrifice something to get us out of this rut we are in as a Nation. We have to ask ourselves, what are we willing to sacrifice? What are we willing to compromise on? Are we prepared to raise taxes to pay for some of the things we need to move forward? Can we handle allowing some drilling to finally get going on some alternatives? Dig deep. There are no easy answers.
All I know is remaining rigid and inflexible is getting us nowhere. You only have to look at the obstructionist Republicans in Washington the last 8 years to see that.
August 3, 2008 2:33 PM | Reply | Permalink
Maybe you haven't noticed. All 'buy' decisions, and voting is of such a kind, are based on emotion.
Since the 1960s, the Democrats have proposed intellectually smart positions, racked up tons of moral victories, and lost election after election.
Republicans have always push an inferior product. Then as now, they skip the policy proposals and push the emotional buttons.
So don't come at me with this is smart and that is dumb policy, and that drilling is a big mistake. With less than one hundred days before the election, I don't care. One or two more lost elections and this country will look like the south won the civil war, ie. like Brazil.
You can take your dream of smart policies with you to your grave if you like. We stand no chance of socially constructive policies if we lose this election. Winning is everything, and frankly I would sell all that I hold dear down the river to prevent another loss.
The smart thing doesn't always sell.
Personally, I think Obama is the greatest politician this country has ever produced. Unfortunately, he's black, and if you can't win the south, you have to win 70% of the rest of the country. And for Republicans, the emotional race card is low hanging fruit every where south of the Ohio River. For this reason I was for Edwards as the safest bet (turned out wrong there). Given Obama's racial liability, he can't afford to surrender any emotionally manipulatable positions in any other quarter. And with people paying $4 for gas, that's easy to manipulate emotionally.
Turns out the real world of politics is emotion based.
August 3, 2008 3:07 PM | Reply | Permalink
"Winning is everything, and frankly I would sell all that I hold dear down the river to prevent another loss."
So, you'd give up everything dear to you including your principles to make sure you don't lose everything dear to you?
Uhhh, OK.
Sometimes, smart policy is also smart politics, even if it seems like it's 'unpopular'. The whole drilling thing is so bogus, and so messed up, it's painful to see it considered seriously as if pursuing is anything other than another payoff to Big Oil and their Republican supporters. Why Dems consider it "smart" to keep assisting Republicans whenever they ask for the help is beyond me.
August 3, 2008 7:52 PM | Reply | Permalink
You are exactly correct about offshore drilling not being a real response to gas prices.
You don't seem to realize, however, that smart people haven't been the ones deciding presidential elections recently.
August 3, 2008 9:09 PM | Reply | Permalink
Pelosi seems to want Edwards from Texas. Is there anything wrong with the fact that he is a member of congress as opposed to a governor...
I still like Kaine from Virginia.
August 3, 2008 2:00 PM | Reply | Permalink
Chet Edwards I think would be a good practical choice, as far as winning TX and helping in the South. Kinda sick of Texans being in the White House though (no offense, Tena!)
August 3, 2008 2:04 PM | Reply | Permalink
O I love the idea of Edwards, but I feel ya on being sick of Texans in the White House.
I was saying the other day here that as much as I'd love Edwards for the sake of turning Texas blue, I have to admit there are other really good choices. And there are valid objections - though they may just be instinctive reactions to the accent - but I don't blame anyone - I have the same instinctive reaction.
August 3, 2008 2:08 PM | Reply | Permalink
Hasn't Nancy Pelosi been sort of pushing Chet?
August 3, 2008 2:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
Heck if I know, CT.
I haven't paid any attention to the VP thing, other than to comment on it here.
August 3, 2008 2:16 PM | Reply | Permalink
How very sane of you.
She did bring his name up. June 24, Pelosi said
August 3, 2008 2:19 PM | Reply | Permalink
Pelosi recommended Edwards of Texas this morning. Said something to the effect he was the House pick. All other names being floated are apparently either senators, governors, or former military. Hadn't thought about that. Think she was on ABC, but not positive.
CindyMax
August 3, 2008 2:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
Edwards has a fairly progressive voting record.
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Chet_Edwards.htm
He voted for the Iraq war authorization but I won't hold that against a potential VP choice, provided they can admit it was a mistake.
August 3, 2008 3:10 PM | Reply | Permalink
Ratfood, thanks for the link to this outstanding site. I bookmarked it.
IMHO Edwards is scary on a lot of issues. Good on education, but very questionable on many others. Maybe 'cause he's in Texas.
cm
August 3, 2008 4:42 PM | Reply | Permalink
Obama needs to pick Biden imho. Not only does the man have great FP chops (yes he has peccadillos) but he is also by far the best Dem I have to seen to cut through BS with scathign wit that turns into easy to recycle soundbites that are short and sweet and not swamped in the usual wonky replies that get Dems in trouble time after time. The Ghooliani line was and still is the best of the campaign. He does that a few times to McNero then I'd hazard a guess the ancient of days will be spitting fury
August 3, 2008 2:21 PM | Reply | Permalink
Aw jeez.
No he should not pick Biden or any other senator.
Two senators on one ticket is a very big mistake - have you seen the approval ratings for Congress lately? And where would the experience come from in that ticket?
Plus Biden is the senator from the Bank of America.
August 3, 2008 2:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
Biden has his good points but brevity isn't one of them. He is similar to Kerry in being unable to answer a direct question with a concise answer.
You are absolutely right about not having two senators on the ticket. Also, it would be hard to make the case that you intend to transform Washington when your VP nominee is a longtime Washington insider. Obama should send him to the State Department or leave him where he is.
August 3, 2008 3:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
Aw ratfood, did you miss the most excellent reply by my man biden in a debate when he was asked if he had a problem running off at the mouth?
Any way - he would be much better in a cabinet, advisor postion because of his knowledge of foreign affairs, vice prez would not be good for him.
August 3, 2008 11:08 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm sure you guys are sick of me bringing this up, however, I think Feingold is strong for VP, for a number of reasons.
However, I believe the big one is they have a track record to run on. They have changed Washington together already.
Click and read:
http://obama.senate.gov/press/070524-obama_feingold_1/
Highlights:
--President Bush signed a comprehensive lobbying and ethics bill Friday. The measure bans gifts to members of Congress and most travel paid for by lobbyists, and it might reduce the practice of earmarking federal money for lawmakers' pet projects.
--Feingold and Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., co-sponsored legislation to require disclosure by bundlers who raise more than $10,000 for candidates. The bill Bush signed requires the online disclosure of bundlers raising more than $15,000.
Obama called it the "most sweeping reform since Watergate."
http://www.govexec.com/dailyfed/0907/091407tdpm1.htm
Question: Am I reading to much into this? Shows me that they get stuff done together. I think Independents would agree and would like libertarian Russ as a candidate.
???
August 3, 2008 2:54 PM | Reply | Permalink
Crap, forgot to uncheck the box!!! Forgive me.
August 3, 2008 2:55 PM | Reply | Permalink
I would love to have Feingold on the ticket. Sure, the Republicans would demonize him but they'll do that no matter who it is. More importantly, Feingold has the brains, guts, and honesty to face down the attacks.
It ain't gonna happen, though.
August 3, 2008 3:22 PM | Reply | Permalink
If not Feingold for VP, hopefully Feingold for attorney general. Imagine having a president and AG who both respect the Constitution.
August 3, 2008 4:18 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm crazy about Feingold. Keep mentioning him. I've never seriously thought about him for VP because he's viewed by some as too liberal. His productivity and track record in the senate are hard to beat, though. Although not his constituent, I've sent him thank you letters letting him know how much he's respected and appreciated, particularly for his integrity.
cm
August 3, 2008 4:52 PM | Reply | Permalink
Tena, I am not yelling at you. I am strongly supporter of Senator Obama, I was merely saying that he may appear caving in to offshore drilling and to republicans, when we all know that it is a gimmick. And Senator Obama knows that...
I understand people need help. Senator Obama and his team of surrogates need to educate people on these issues...
I understand that the media do not help Obama, but he needs to find a way to explain his economic plan and energy plan.
CT, Yes Pelosi is pushing for Edwards...
August 3, 2008 2:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
He said he was willing to compromise on a package that included it.
And yeah - I'm sure you support Obama.
August 3, 2008 2:51 PM | Reply | Permalink
Richardson will be VP. With his Energy background, he's the Democratic equivalent to Cheney.
Closed door meetings with Big Oil to be replaced by closed door meetings with Big Green.
Richardson has Green appeals and shores up southwest minority support.
August 3, 2008 2:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
That's exactly the kind of fixing broken Washington we've been waiting for.
August 3, 2008 2:50 PM | Reply | Permalink
BK that would be a solid choice and might bring Texas and Arizona fully in play
August 3, 2008 2:42 PM | Reply | Permalink
Jess, it's good to dream... But TX and AZ. I was talking about making sure he wins NM, NV and CO. He will need all 3 of these..
August 3, 2008 2:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
Tena I disagree. A VP that can engage the MSM is exactly what Obama needs. Biden knows how to frame a message and stick with it. Yes its simplistic but it works. He doesnt give two Fs about using retorts with scathing humor and wit that are easy to understand and lucid to low info voters. I agree he is a risk but frankly who isnt? The man knows his shit and given Mccain's endless saga with the gaffe machine he can pick and choose easy targets to send screaming bullets back at McNero. When McNero gets his own medicine he becomes angry, bitter and prone to even more misguided nonsense. Biden is just the type to get under his skin and stay there, just by the simple easy to feed verbal barbs the MSM loves. I live in Mississippi and I know for a fact Obama has a shot here and how? By framing a simple easy to repeat message. Avoid the details and nail McNero in soundbite hell. We all know Obama knows his shit and will benefit us all but here that doesnt bloody matter. Catchy phrases like a verb, a noun and 9/11 do. They stick in voters heads like glue especially in places like Mississippi.
August 3, 2008 2:51 PM | Reply | Permalink
Problem is, when would the VP nominee have an opportunity to go one on one with the presidential nominee of the other ticket?
I agree that Obama needs an attack dog, somebody who can tear into the Republicans while he stays above the fray. Unlike the Republicans, the Dems don't have to lie. All that is required to smear McCain is to tell the truth.
August 3, 2008 3:53 PM | Reply | Permalink
Fine - I don't give one shit - it's all a matter of subjective criteria and I honestly don't give one shit who he chooses, as long as it isn't a Repug.
August 3, 2008 5:59 PM | Reply | Permalink
McCain's whole campaign has been pushing the race issue with coded words and innuendo - which is why they reacted so quickly when they were called on it because they kept pushing the envelope and pushing the envelope and knew eventually somebody would pick up on it and since the MSM isn't doing their job Barack broached the subject using their innuendo against them. Of course all of a sudden Jake Tapper can see it clear as day.
What about the current ad running where the text "More Foreign" shares the screen with a picture of Obama, even though the voice over is talking about foreign oil?
The presumptuous tag was blatant dog whistling. Why isn't McCain called presumptuous or arrogant for his weekly radio addresses, his meeting with foreign leaders after the GOP primary wrapped up or the fact he called himself the President in earlier ads?
The youtube ad that has the start screen frozen on Obama on the 100 dollar bill, when default protocol has the middle frame used for the spot. So it's obvious the ad maker wanted that shot to be the start screen.
Lieberman calling Obama a "Good young man" today is patronizing at best and is code for "boy" at worst. Obama is 47 years old.
Lieberman saying "relax and enjoy it" when commenting on the Spears/Hilton ad, which is the punchline for a rape joke, further coloring the ad in the Harold Ford Jr Ad direction. Why was out of the public eye Hilton and Spears used for the ad if it was supposed to be about "celebrity" like they claim. They're defense when asked about it doesn't pass the common sense or smell test.
Then you have the wingnuts spewing their racist garbage ad nauseum on right wing radio, obviously on direction from the GOP. This way Obama can be smeared by bigots and McCain can claim to keep his hands clean.
It's a concerted effort to play the race card under-the-radar, so they can claim innocence and turn it around on the one making the accusation. That's exactly what they did to Obama, he called him on their attempt to label him with their current code words "different" and "risky". Jake Tapper is just too dense at best or bought and paid for at worst and ran with it.
It's all a whisper/under-the-radar smear campaign, the same campaign used against McCain in 2000 and used against Kerry in 2004 and the media lets them get away with their scumbag tricks.
August 3, 2008 2:52 PM | Reply | Permalink
BK he doesnt have to win them just bringing them into play is enough it will force McNero to campaign in places he never imagined. That costs time and money and in the bigger picture that costs votes in swing states that Obama can win.
August 3, 2008 2:52 PM | Reply | Permalink
If the question from the Hilton and Spears ad is can Obama Lead..I think this is a great reply:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgF39TRCPPE
August 3, 2008 2:53 PM | Reply | Permalink
I woke up this morning to hear NPR doing analysis on race and the presidential race, and they interview a white guy who's kid got beat up in school by black kids who told him they hate whites. He says that if Obama is elected it will make for worse race relations.
It was disturbing all around. I just turned it off, and didn't hear the whole report -- where they presumably gave the forum to someone on the other side of the issue... but what other side would that have been? That blacks got screwed over by whites, so they need a black president?
There are racial antagonisms, anxieties, fears and bitter feelings all around. More than basic racism. We live in a country were neighbors don't talk to neighbors -- so you know there's no communication with the folks in that other neighborhood who are not like you.
So here's the deal: If this is turned into a race about race, then Obama will lose.
If this is turned into a race about dealing with the damage of the Bush era, fixing problems in the economy, foreign policy, the wars -- you know, the issues -- then McCain will lose.
McCain is depending on Obama playing the "race card," and if he isn't, then McCain will yell that he is. He's depending on the media to go along with the message. He's not going to win by sticking to the issues.
So Obama's response to this should be...?
August 3, 2008 2:58 PM | Reply | Permalink
Issues, issues, issues and how's gonna get things done. Nuts and bolts. Leveling with the American people and telling us what we are going to have to sacrifice to get us out of this rut. Tell us what we don't necessarily want to hear, but NEED to hear.
He should really be looking to FDR's campaigns in 1932 and 1940. Powerful speeches that laid things out the way the way they were, told people it wouldn't be easy and may, in fact, get worse before they get better, what they needed to hear, but that he had a plan.
Finally, how about some dynamic programs. I'd love for the Conservation Corps. to be brought back. Hello jobs!
We want answers, not tabloid ads.
August 3, 2008 3:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
how's=how he's
August 3, 2008 3:14 PM | Reply | Permalink
Disagree. He should talk about the issues, but each response to what McCain does or says should fit the Bush's 3rd term narrative. It was working!!!
August 3, 2008 3:21 PM | Reply | Permalink
That's easy enough. Agree!
August 3, 2008 3:22 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yeah but for whatever reason the Obama camp stopped doing it. Which is completely silly imo. They even had the MSM morons parroting it.
August 3, 2008 3:25 PM | Reply | Permalink
It does work, hell, I'm sorry to admit this now, but one big reason I voted for Brand Hillary in the MN caucus was primarily do to her being more vocally against Bush in her stumping. So it is definitely a winning argument.
August 3, 2008 3:29 PM | Reply | Permalink
Y'all are all full of crap on these VP picks. I know exactly who Obama should pick...a man beloved by heartlanders, rednecks, farmers, and working-class types even though he's a huge liberal, he's from Texas and identified with Texas so we'd lock up that big state, and to top it off he's about as old as McCain and everyone knows about his "experience."
Obviously, Willie Nelson is the only possible choice.
August 3, 2008 3:10 PM | Reply | Permalink
LOL!
I'm still envisioning LudaNation, myself.
August 3, 2008 3:15 PM | Reply | Permalink
Janet Reno! Obama-Reno 2008! Ya know, kinda like Beef-a-Reno!
"I'm so keen-o on Obama-Reno!"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugazcvzOM0Q
A great theme song is key!
August 3, 2008 3:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
anybody heard about groups that wanna do a donation blitz tomorrow because of obama b-day
August 3, 2008 3:26 PM | Reply | Permalink
Too further push up Obama's numbers he should focus on what demographics? Theorize away!
I'd wager- get the Democrats more solid, win over Independent Men.
Agree/Disagree? Other demos?
August 3, 2008 3:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
Active Grannies.
August 3, 2008 3:34 PM | Reply | Permalink
But seriously, I think the time of targeting specific demographics is gone. Before the youtubes you could go to every small town and say something different and speak with a different accent etc. Today, it just isn't effective. It certainly did not work for Senator Clinton.
August 3, 2008 3:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
The economically threatened and economically worried suburban middle class. The kind of voters the Dems had success with as early as 2004. The people in Rochester and Edina who threw their Republican out of the state house. The people who don't want stupid children unable to compete in the future. The people who understand there are guns vs butter choices. The people who value quality of life. The people who want their kids in a good university not in a good combat unit. The people who understand you need bridges to get to work. The people who want parks. The people who want a competent ER doc on duty if their kid falls and hits his head. The people who understand they are competing with India and China and Brazil not with illiterates hiding in caves.
August 3, 2008 3:47 PM | Reply | Permalink
Those suburbs are going to be hard though. Oh, and Supa, agree you shouldn't specifically target demographics, but there are still ways to bring them in.
August 3, 2008 3:51 PM | Reply | Permalink
That's why it's so important that Obama doesn't lose his "authenticity" + "consistency" persona by picking a really bad establishment, corporate, war-mongering sidekick.
Democrats have to over-achieve. Eventhough McCain IS THE ultimate disingenuous, corrupt and mentally incompetent candidate.
Go figure.
August 3, 2008 9:02 PM | Reply | Permalink
This really strikes home, bluebell.
August 3, 2008 9:56 PM | Reply | Permalink
I think he should pick Rachel Maddow....
August 3, 2008 3:35 PM | Reply | Permalink
I could second that. She is smart with keen observations.
August 4, 2008 3:57 AM | Reply | Permalink
Evan Bayh is Hillary Clinton without the 'lovely lady lumps' or the conscience.
Bayh needs to be out of politics permanently . . . not chosen as VP.
August 3, 2008 3:37 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yes, Bayh makes me throw up in my mouth a little.
I think former Mississipp. Gov. Ray Mabus would be the best choice overall. Though, personally I myself want Feingold or Schweitzer.
August 3, 2008 3:57 PM | Reply | Permalink
Supa its the inactive Grannies the candidates will have trouble getting to the polls...
August 3, 2008 3:40 PM | Reply | Permalink
Really amazing!!!!!!!!!!
August 3, 2008 3:44 PM | Reply | Permalink
its not time to panic but time to go negative.....
August 3, 2008 3:51 PM | Reply | Permalink
I don't think any GOP surrogate can reference Obama without saying "Celebrity". However people watching the Sunday funnies are pretty politically aware, so it comes off as such a gimmick. Of course Dems have been giving the American electorate too much credit for years now and it always bites them in the ass come early November.
I see Kerry was the Obama surrogate opposite McCain, did he even bother to challenge the notion or put Lieberman on the defensive?
Obama surrogates suck. Where is Biden, Webb and others with backbone?
August 3, 2008 3:55 PM | Reply | Permalink
Watching Kerry today made me think he got the Skull & Bones rollover call? Pathetic.
August 3, 2008 8:22 PM | Reply | Permalink
Just logged back on. Obama has agreed to give delegates from Michigan and Florida full votes. Here's the link: Obama: Michigan, Florida Delegates
August 3, 2008 4:06 PM | Reply | Permalink
According to the AP(pah-tooie) Obama sent a letter to the RBC asking for Michigan and Florida to be seated in full. I think this was a terrible mistake and he should have simply let this sleeping dog lie. It frames his RBC battle as purely political firstly and it will also seat a lot more Hillary supporters at the convention and we already know Hillary plans a "symbolic" first roll vote.
August 3, 2008 4:08 PM | Reply | Permalink
I agree. This is likely an effort to quell anticipated contentiousness at the convention, and/or it might be the result of his meeting with Hillary people last week. I don't think the Obama camp will get the result they hoped for though. Bad move.
CindyMax
August 3, 2008 4:23 PM | Reply | Permalink
Obama: You know those rules that I was fighting for before, well forget about that now I was just kidding.
I think Sen. Clinton set up Obama here. This was probably one of her conditions they are negotiating.
I'm actually really disappointed in this decision right now.
August 3, 2008 4:33 PM | Reply | Permalink
Something is up.
August 3, 2008 8:42 PM | Reply | Permalink
Obama did not actually care about the voters in Michigan and Florida when he ran against Hillary. I think this is totally scummy coming now - when polls are starting to not go in his favor. This is a complete ass kissing to the voters in those states and it is my hope the comeuppance he so richly deserves is bestowed upon him quickly and severely. Flip flop Obama seems he just can't stop pandering...
August 3, 2008 4:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
It's unhealthy to carry a grudge -- messes up your body chemistry something fierce.
cm
August 3, 2008 4:26 PM | Reply | Permalink
The only pander was Hillary, while the nomination was still being contested, going back on the agreement they had both signed once she realized she was in trouble. She started calling for the Florida beauty contest to count just days before the voting there. Now that's a pander! (Think it had any influence on the results?)
The result of her reneging on the agreement and pushing the phony 2000 comparison to the bitter end is that people like you think she was somehow a victim.
What Obama is doing now is what everyone expected the presumptive nominee would do. I'll go out on a limb and say the Florida and Michigan state parties will be pleased.
August 3, 2008 4:30 PM | Reply | Permalink
Ann Arbor, I didn't expect it. Thanks for laying out the facts in reference to Hillary. I was really busy during the primaries and not paying too much attention then. And thanks for the sensible perspective overall.
cm
August 3, 2008 5:04 PM | Reply | Permalink
But it will just further infuriate the dead-enders, and give hope the lunatic fringe that is still trying to flip the election at the convention.
August 3, 2008 5:10 PM | Reply | Permalink
He'll never mollify the real dead-enders. He may be doing this now so that anyone else upset by it has enough time to get over it by the convention. It will help once Hillary starts actively campaigning for him, which should be any day now....
August 3, 2008 5:48 PM | Reply | Permalink
Great story by Carrie Brown in Poltico about McCain: Original Celebrity http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0808/12260.html
As recently as July 11, 2008 McCain's own website referred to him as "a political celebrity"..of course that reference has since been "scrubbed"
Here's the link to the original site: http://209.85.215.104/search?q=cache:Y9cUrjxnT4cJ:www.johnmccain.com/informing/News/NewsReleases/b1b85afb-cd0c-4a74-997d-dfee1a3f8098.htm+celebrity+mccain+-obama&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=17&gl=us&client=firefox-a
If this is going to be a popularity contest and not a dicussion of any substantive issues, perhaps the Senator from Arizona doesn't want to share the stage with another "celeb"...sheeeeeesh this is what we get.
August 3, 2008 4:19 PM | Reply | Permalink
Of course, McCain is a political celebrity. He's become famous for spouting off and making off-color comments. He's appeared numerous times on Letterman, The Daily Show, and similar late night programs. Someone said this morning that he made an appearance in a movie. Sounds like something a celebrity does.
Taking someone to task for something McCain has done (and has probably done more) is just the type of thing a celebrity like McCain would do. ANd the mainstream press just gobbles it up without asking questions. They do it because he is such a great story.
What I would like them to ask, is how his family background affects his desire to be president.
Our current president was clearly influenced by the success of his father and to a lesser degree his grandfather. Its the only thing that seemed to drive the shiftless bum to want to hold office. And it clearly influenced his desire to be more glorious and avoid the perceived weaknesses of his father.
McCain's father and grandfather were both 4-star Admirals. They led men in battle. They were heroes. As a young man, at some level John McCain was a rebel and a slacker. Didn't respond well to authority. He was not a good student and would not have made it into the Naval Academy absent his family's history in the Navy. As a midshipman graduating in the bottom of his class, it was quite unusual for him to get into flight school. Those spots are normally reserved for the best and the brightest. But in his case there was a spot in flight school for the son and grandson of Admirals. He enjoyed a lot of advantages because of his family. Seeing any similarities to our current president yet?
At some point, McCain topped out in the Navy at the rank of Captain. No flag rank for John. Even the Navy has some limits. Crashing planes at some point has consequences. But planes are minor in comparison to to the investment and lives at stake with ships and multiple ships. Sorry. No Admirals stars for this McCain.
But is McCain trying to even the score with his father and grandfather by achieving something even they weren't great enough for? COMMANDER IN CHIEF?
I suspect McCain only wants to be president because it will make him COMMANDER IN CHIEF. Its a military thing. The COMMANDER IN CHIEF, by law has the biggest balls in the world. And a COMMANDER IN CHIEF during wartime is a much bigger charge. And to be COMMANDER IN CHIEF and start a war against another country in response to some loosely perceived threat would be so glorious and such a big thrill it would give him a permanent hardon. Much the same way our current president made so much of being a war president.
God help us if he's put in charge of the military. Do we really need another president who wants to lead because of issues with his father? Our current president has done it in spades, and look how its hurt the country.
August 3, 2008 5:29 PM | Reply | Permalink
You see the problem with the McCain campaign is they make Judgement calls based on nothing, ooh ok, something or another (that better). I've heard all daly the Obama's moving to the center...Well I ask where exactly are we on Jobs, The Economy, Money, Our Investments, College Funding, and Energy?
It does not seem to me we are center, right or left...
How about straight down..and what voting block is there...
So when a candidate sits down with economy specialists, and come back with a PLAN that will benefit the country...instead of a gimic or just something TO SAY...why is that WRONG or the BIG "FLIP FLOP"....
LET ME TELL YOU WHY IT'S WRONG...IT'S NEVER BEEN DONE!
So it becomes, Since I didn't think of if FIRST...IT'S "UPPITY", "PRESUMPTUOUS"
Think about it everyone goes into a campaign with the statis quo, Lower taxes, Fix the deficit, Better Education ect,ect but have you ever seen a Politican sit down and get the FACTS FIRST, AND RE-FINDED THIER POSTION DURING, I REPEAT DURING.. A CAMPAIGN....NO!
And people ask why he change his mine on off shore drilling, for all the reason above. Do you want to wait for election day before you get some type of relief, or start putting the Oil companies on notice. I believe that was the purpose of the economy meeting.
But for most candidates IT'S THE STATIS QUO TO THE END!
No change, no maybe, just straight ahead... Take nothing else or changes INTO CONSIDERATION..Just WE WILL FIX IT WHEN WE GET THERE...RIGHT AFTER WE SHOW PEOPLE THAT FACTS ARE A LIE...OR A LIE IS FACTS.
And you wonder why this election will be in the record books.
August 3, 2008 4:38 PM | Reply | Permalink
I have no idea why anyone would give a rat's patootie what Joe Lieberman thinks. The man makes me ill. At some level, I am glad he never became Vice President. Its hard to fathom how Gore missed it so badly when he chose him.
Its just a matter of weeks or months at the most before he leaves the Democratic Party or is kicked out. Just a couple more Senate seats and we will be done with him. Its a good thing he's sucking up to the Republicans, because he will be one of them soon... but he will likely have to changes some of his more liberal positions. AND I bet he will not be re-elected in 2012, if he even stands for re-election. The voters of Connecticut were fooled last time around. I doubt they will be fooled again.
AND, the man reminds me of My Favorite Martian, a sitcom from the early 1960's. I just wish he would raise his antennae and disappear... PERMANENTLY!!!
August 3, 2008 5:00 PM | Reply | Permalink
After SCOTUS awarded Bush his first term, Gore appeared on SNL. There was a sketch that made light of his VP selection process. I recall that it ended with Gore and Lieberman seated in a hot-tub, linking arms while drinking champagne. I looked but couldn't locate a clip on youtube.
August 3, 2008 5:27 PM | Reply | Permalink
So the Lawn Jockey has gone back on what? three more of his "promises" in the last week!
Talk about Say Anything To Get Elected! What a fuckin loser Obama is.
And he's losing to Granpa Munster!
Well we warned you he would renege on all his bs that you "progressives" swallowed while licking his ass...
Voila!
Like we told you, the Obama NutRoots version of Jackson's Rainbow Coalition can't win nationally.
Add to that NeverDoneNuthin Hussein and yes the NutWing of the Dems is actually going to yank Defeat out in '08.
You Aholes are just so pathetic...
But hey it is so much fun to watch you fight to try and prove that Hussein's shit don't stink!
L
O
S
E
R
S
!
August 3, 2008 5:22 PM | Reply | Permalink
Racist Trolls are really desperate for attention.
August 3, 2008 5:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
It is difficult to discern your position but after a careful reading, I gather you are pro-Obama. I am certain the senator and the rest of us are grateful for your support.
August 3, 2008 5:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
Applause . . .
August 3, 2008 9:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
You know, McCain shifted on off-shore drilling. He has voted numerous times to ban off-shore drilling. Its hard to say what changed his mind about it. It could be due to to the high cost of gas, and when gas goes up you better be able to say you'll do something or people will get pissed.
Or it could be due to advances that were made in the last few weeks on safety in the off-shore drilling industry.
Or it could be due to one of McCain's spontaneous changes of heart.
But more likely, it was due to the campaign contributions he received from the oil industry and the promise of even more contributions after he changed his position to support off-shore drilling. We're talking about millions of dollars for a campaign thats running on fumes.
Most knuckleheads would acknowledge that additional drilling will not change the price of gas overnight. Except McCain, that is. He thinks there will be a psychological impact.
Yeah, right. Its psychological.
But if this would impact the cost of gas, then why aren't the oil companies drilling on the millions of acres of leases that they currently have that have not been touched? It sounds a lot like the oil companies are seizing on this opportunity to guarantee future profits and these off-shore reserves will not be tapped for many many years.
One measure that would spur exploration of currently awarded leases would make the oil companies use their current leases or lose them so that someone else can give them a shot.
What is McCain's position on that?
August 3, 2008 5:51 PM | Reply | Permalink
==One measure that would spur exploration of currently awarded leases would make the oil companies use their current leases or lose them so that someone else can give them a shot.==
Unfortunately, that was shut down in the House by the Republicans. So no Senate vote.
Too bad. It was a sensible plan.
August 4, 2008 12:22 AM | Reply | Permalink
JTHB I see you joined the oxygen thief club. Congrats.
August 3, 2008 5:31 PM | Reply | Permalink
Lawn jockey?
wow.
August 3, 2008 5:49 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yeah, how about that? Actual McCain staff members posting at TPM.
August 3, 2008 6:01 PM | Reply | Permalink
I think that Obama listened to people in Florida and decided it was better to make voters there happy than mad.
He started doing rather well in Florida shortly after he became the nominee.
I just cannot believe how it always goes during a campaign: the candidate cannot take a deep breath without 14 online geniuses howling for his head because either it was a mistake to breath in right now or why the hell does he breathe out already?!
[rolls eyes]
August 3, 2008 5:54 PM | Reply | Permalink
Minutes before the sentence was handed down, according to Edwards, Hilton made the sign of the cross with her right hand, then kissed her fingers.
Judge Sauer was particularly stern with his comments to Hilton, whom, he said, "disregarded everything" by repeatedly driving with a suspended license.
After the general public had cleared the courtroom, Hilton began to tear up. Sheriffs brought her a box of Kleenex, and she held a wad of tissues to her face as she placed her head down.
Then, said Edwards, Hilton's mother, Kathy Hilton, angrily burst from the courtroom seating area toward the attorneys' table, saying loudly, "I can't believe this, I can't believe this."
She went over to her daughter's side, standing over her and putting her arm around Paris as others crowded around her.
Eventually, Paris stood and was hugged by her father, Rick Hilton, who said, "I can't believe this, either."
"I don't know what happened," said Paris. "I did what they said."
Kathy Hilton, red in the face, then walked up to one of the prosecutors and screamed, "You're pathetic." She then asked sarcastically, "Can I have your autograph?"
The prosecutor to whom Hilton had delivered her outburst completely ignored her, said Edwards.
About half a dozen sheriffs' deputies then approached Kathy Hilton, who screamed at them, "Don't you touch me, don't you touch me."
As the family was about to exit the courtroom, said Edwards, Kathy Hilton declared for all to hear, "[The judge] made up his mind before he even came in today. If it were anyone else, this would've never had happened."
She then exclaimed, "And after all the money we spent!"
August 3, 2008 5:58 PM | Reply | Permalink
What is your point, Desi?
It's not like we don't all know already in sickening detail just how silly Paris Hilton can be.
So? What does that have to do with anything?
August 3, 2008 6:01 PM | Reply | Permalink
Well, I hate to say it, because I don't like paris hilton, but she totally got shafted. Anyone else in the same position would never have gone to jail in a million years and certainly not for as long as she did. She went to jail because she was paris hilton. That is absolutely unfair and wrong. She may be a spoiled brat, a light weight and all the other things that she is branded with, but she surely should not have gone to jail. That was really pathetic.
Incidentally, many, many people do the same thing as hilton did. I'm not saying its right, but they don't go to jail for it. Especially for such a long sentence in the grand scheme of things. At most its a day or two, or more community service. The jails are full. I would rather have a violent criminal behind bars than the paris hiltons of the world.
Once again the criminal justice system looked arbitrary and pathetic. It really is distressing. Paris hilton spent more time behind bars than oj. Pathetic when you think about it.
August 3, 2008 6:27 PM | Reply | Permalink
I don't recall how many times Paris got tagged driving without a license but I don't think it is necessarily true that someone else wouldn't have gotten a 30-day sentence. It WOULD be safe to say there is little consistency in sentencing, even within the same jurisdiction.
I am reminded of Rush Limbaugh claiming that if he'd been just an average Joe with 80,000 tabs of Oxycontin the cops wouldn't have hassled him. Life can be so unfair for the obscenely wealthy.
A couple years back, a nineteen year old near here drove off the road and killed a bicyclist. She hadn't been drinking, she was downloading a ringtone. It was her third accident under similar circumstances in three years... first fatality. She did end up having to pay a thousand dollar fine, so justice was served. Perhaps a few days in jail for one of the prior offenses would have had some benefit.
August 3, 2008 6:55 PM | Reply | Permalink
The thing is that the jails are full in la with burglars, and felons, and murderers, and die hard criminals. I don't know all the details and I really don't care. Bottom line is that even if driving on a suspended license got you a six month sentence you would be out in 48 hours max. At most she would have had house arrest with the ankle braclet gig, which she actually had. She was ramroded and screwed because of who she was and that was not right.
Also, lush's situation was different as well. It was illegal drugs, not driving on a freaking suspended license. Also, I disagree with lush's analysis. I actually think that his deal was fair.
I don't disagree on your final point on a little jail time enlightening someone. 48 to 72 hours is more than enough for people that aren't diehard criminals. I actually had a matter that I was trying to help out someone who violated their probation and had to visit them in the visiting area at la central. That was enough for me, it was a disgusting and horrible experience. Nothing like in the movies, sorry. Jail is a horrible experience and noone should be unfairly subjected to it. It's not right.
August 3, 2008 7:44 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm sure it wasn't pleasant but I seem to recall Paris had her own cell, she wasn't thrown in the tank with the hookers. Her mistake was probably that in getting busted repeatedly for driving without a license she demonstrated contempt for the legal system. It's alright to HAVE contempt for the system but if you're facing charges it's smart to pretend otherwise until the matter is resolved.
Rush was actually suggesting that being a conservative talk show host was the only reason he was targeted for investigation. It was a complete load of crap. Even simple possession of (with no intent to distribute) a controlled substance in that quantity would have gotten an "average joe" at least ten years in the pen. Money talked and Rush walked.
August 3, 2008 9:27 PM | Reply | Permalink
It's pretty amazing how many people are here to defend Paris. She repeatedly violated a simple law and her probation, showed up late for hearings and otherwise expressed contempt. Her mother blew up after the sentencing, but she herself a day or so later acted respectably by fully acknowledging her mistake and dealing with the sentence honorably.
Drunk driving is against the law for good reason. Violating your probation is against the law. Showing up late for your hearing is not going to win sympathy - note that Scooter Libby also irked his judge in various ways and the response was the same, though more serious for more serious circumstances. But Paris didn't have a President to pardon her - good for her. She came out of this with more honor than Scooter.
But why oh why are people defending her for her initial behavior? Or her mother's angry outbursts at Paris' need come-uppance? Kathy Hilton should have been sentenced for contempt as well.
August 4, 2008 8:47 AM | Reply | Permalink
I should make it clear, "violating your parole twice by twice driving without a license". Gee, ain't that a bit stupid?
August 4, 2008 9:04 AM | Reply | Permalink
breathe in, and why the hell doesn't he breathe out already.
It really doesn't do one thing for the snark to have to come back and correct it after the fact.
*sigh*
August 3, 2008 5:58 PM | Reply | Permalink
I have some new and improved thoughts on VP. Check it out if you want. Comments appreciated!!!
http://tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/2008/08/new-improved-vp-links.php
August 3, 2008 6:16 PM | Reply | Permalink
Nancy Pelosi has joined my campaign for dark horse Rep. Chet Edwards, D-Waco, for Obama veep.
August 3, 2008 7:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
Lieberman is a joke, and I can't believe Brokaw and Kerry let him get away with it. Early in the show he tries to demonize Obama for compromising on the off-shore drilling, and then not three minutes later he's championing the great McCain because he will leave all options on the table to negotiate across the aisle when it comes to payroll taxes and social security. Which one is it - When Obama opens up to the possibility of an energy compromise he's called weak for not taking a stance, however when McCain flip-flops and says payroll tax would be on the table in the spirit of negotiating he's some great leader.
Kerry should have stood up and threw his arms in the air is astonishment.
August 3, 2008 6:42 PM | Reply | Permalink
Obama has the AUDACITY to CHANGE his positions whenever he feels like it, and he HOPES no one cares.
Obama sent his campaign bleeps to the RBC in Florida to make sure that Florida and Michigan wouldn't count towards the final election results of the Primary. Now, he wants them to count after the deed was done? Whatever happened to "rules are rules"? If Florida and Michigan are restored, then in effect the only thing the Democrat party did was disenfranchise the will of the voters in those two states, while installing the will of Democrat party leaders. This is much worse than Florida 2000. Aren't Obamabots vehemently against politicians who are cold and calculating? Who will do and say anything to win? Obamabots will make excuses for their lying messiah once again and now are begging for offshore drilling. What a buch of losers. Loser Obama and his whiny bunch of loser Obamabots.
Superdelagates -
Just say Nobama and dump this Obamaturd asap and elect Hillary 08.
August 3, 2008 7:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpMFVKO6eCk
August 3, 2008 8:01 PM | Reply | Permalink
So in order to dispel the allegation that Obama is a celebrity, TPM offers a quote from a celebrity's mother. I'm sure TPM is hot on the trail right now to find out what Hillary Duff's mom has to say. Or maybe Oprah will come to Obama's rescue with another of those joint-appearance spectaculars with him.
August 3, 2008 7:50 PM | Reply | Permalink
The huge problem with this pansy Barack Obama, is that he changes his positions anytime it is politicaly expedient. McCain changed his position on this issue when it was unpopular to change. Obama is changing, because it is popular to change. Axelrod is shamelessly turning Obama into his little marketing puppet. That’s why the DNC hated Hillary. She was a leader not a follower or a manipulator. Obama is way too indecisive to lead America in this time of economic and energy crisis.
Just say Nobama
Hillary in 08.
August 3, 2008 7:52 PM | Reply | Permalink
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89zd8vdk5NI&feature=related
August 3, 2008 8:02 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm reluctant to engage, but just so this idea doesn't start to take root in impressionable young minds...
What Obama is asking for now is not a flip-flop. It's the customary outcome in both parties once the nominee has been settled. He said back in June that he would make this request.
On offshore drilling, his willingness to compromise isn't really a change of position but a shrewd deal tilted heavily in his favor (see posts above).
Besides, McCain is head and shoulders above Obama on flip-flops, both in sheer quantity and in the significance of the subject. A far-from-complete list: the Bush tax cuts for the rich (opposed them, but now wants even more); a timeline for troop withdrawals from Iraq (before: never! will only abet the terrorists! now: sure, 16 months, next week, whenever); shifting troops from Iraq to Afghanistan (opposed it, now supports it); bin Laden (will pursue to gates of hell, unless hell is in Pakistan); immigration reform (for it, then against it, now who knows?); the estate tax (strongly for it in 2006, strongly against in 2008); torture (against it, but if Bush wants it done it's ok). Plus, MLK holiday, equal pay for women, Roe v. Wade, etc.
August 3, 2008 9:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
Bill C, you couldn't argue your way out of a wet paper bag.
August 3, 2008 8:00 PM | Reply | Permalink
Probably, because she is a wet paper bag. Pathetic.
August 3, 2008 8:14 PM | Reply | Permalink
Just say Nobama
Hillary in 08.
Posted by Dem BillC
They really ought to purge the system of primary-thread comments. If they haven't appeared til now, just delete them.
August 3, 2008 8:39 PM | Reply | Permalink
Gallup has Obama and McCain polling even now. So much for all the snickering at McCain's silly ads here eh?
Maybe those GOP scumbags know a thing or two about winning an election.
Does Obama know Matt Sanchez was going to lose the election on The West Wing?
August 3, 2008 9:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm with you. I'm a little stunned at the nonchalance people here are showing to McCain's negative onslaught. Yes, it's ridiculous and disgusting, but it does seem to be having an effect. Maybe it's too early to tell, but I don't like seeing those national poll numbers go neck and neck when it should be at least 5-8 points in Obama's favor (which I think would be the case if he weren't so defensive and casual). And I don't buy the "People aren't really paying attention yet" argument - that's bullshit. Memes are being defined and set in motion right now, and Obama's just being very milquetoast. I saw this happen to Kerry, and it's happening again.
I keep wondering where Obama's gun is, because it sure looks to me like he's getting knifed up pretty good right now.
August 4, 2008 12:11 AM | Reply | Permalink
You know how many times "Obama" has been mentioned with "celebrity" or "Britney/Paris" this week? I'm betting tens of thousands of times across America - That's called creating a brand. Obama has let himself be framed/defined by the opposition and that is a huge mistake in politics.
As has been mentioned here Obama should have never dropped the "Third Bush Term" attack on McCain. But I guess he simply can't attack at all, be needs to rise above and take the high road all the way to second place.
Hillary was a lot of things, but she would have called McCain a loony old fool by now and would have a full whisper campaign about McCain having early Alzheimer's in full effect.
Who knew Obama was going to bring a pop-gun to a knife fight. I'd at least like to go down fighting - is that too much to ask? It's like Obama doesn't think the White House is worth fighting for - he'd rather lose with honor I guess, all the while leaving America with John McCain.
And you can stuff your chicken little name calling where the sun don't shine.
August 3, 2008 9:41 PM | Reply | Permalink
Not to devalue your statement, but I am going to wait until the next couple of days go by to reserve judgment.
I do believe the Obama camp has something up their sleeve for this week. I figured this last week would be a big McCain sh--storm after Obama's big overseas trip last week. I think maybe big things are in store for this coming week, then the big Olympic ad buy, the Convention, and we're off.
We shall see.
Personally, I'm thinking a big surprise VP announcement. Something.
August 3, 2008 10:29 PM | Reply | Permalink
A VP announcement will get drowned out by Olympic coverage that will start gearing up for the Opening Ceremonies on Friday.
I guess if he made the announcement tomorrow or Tuesday he could control the coverage for the 2-3 days before the Olympics take over, hoping the positive press before the Olympics will carry though the games up to the Convention which of course starts the day after the closing ceremonies.
However if that big VP announcement is Evan Bayh, I don't think he'll get the bump he is hoping for and with the layover in Indiana on Tuesday, if he announces this week it's Bayh because announcing on Wednesday or later you're running right up to the Olympics. And I have a feeling that this Olympics is going to be very newsworthy for a lot of wrong reasons.
Another thing pointing to him not naming a VP anytime soon is his scheduled week long vacation this month. I don't think he'll name a VP and then disappear for a week, leaving the VP to hold down the fort.
August 3, 2008 10:40 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yeah, I can see him waiting until the Convention too. Capitalize on interest, excitement, etc. But I can see it happening in the next couple of days as well.
In anycase, I think something will get rolled out in the next couple of days to counter the McCain bump. What that is exactly I don't know. Hopefully it will be huge and we can recapture the message.
August 4, 2008 12:16 AM | Reply | Permalink
Unless the new veep is featured with Obama in the Olympic ads. That would roll out the ticket and let the campaign define the veep in front of the MSM coverage.
I cannot think of any reason to pick Bayh for veep. There is no point in trying to curry favor from the Clintons at this point. The Clintons will help/hurt Obama to whatever extent as is, and no amount of cajoling at this point is going to change it. The PUMAs are dittoheads who want to wreck Obama, and nothing is going to change that. Better to pick an Obama supporter for veep.
August 4, 2008 9:44 AM | Reply | Permalink
Ronald Reagan. Arnold Schwarzenegger. Sonny Bono. Jim Bunning. Fred Thompson. Lynn Swann (not elected).
Obama has none of these people's pre-political backgrounds.
Why anyone should be worried about the "celebrity" tag, long-term, is beyond me.
(John Glenn, Al Franken, etc., etc.)
August 4, 2008 11:43 AM | Reply | Permalink
The first thing I thought when I read Lieberman's remark "nice young man" is he is calling him "boy." We'll see who calls who "boy" after Obama wins. Lieberman's days are numbered as a politician.
August 3, 2008 10:34 PM | Reply | Permalink
Obama needs to pick a Catholic. As Tim Russert said his dad told him, "We support him (JFK)because he is one of us." A lot of Catholics will vote for a Catholic VP, and that's a group that Obama needs to strengthen his support.
August 3, 2008 10:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
While I'd like to agree with you, Kerry showed that having a Catholic on the ticket doesn't carry the Catholic vote.
August 4, 2008 12:59 AM | Reply | Permalink
Cantor is my Congressman. He won't do a thing to help McCain re: the Jewish vote simply because the Jewish vote is overwhelmingly Democratic and strongly in favor of Obama. Cantor is completely out of touch with the Jewish vote. He appeals to the small (but vocal) minority of hard right-wing Jews. And to the Joe Lieberman's of the world of course.
August 4, 2008 7:39 AM | Reply | Permalink
It's a sorry state of affairs. Corruption and oligarchy permeate all governments to varying degrees. That said, a population mired in cynicism and defeatism will likely remain stuck; an optimistic population knows it has the potential to at least move toward an ideal in which everyone can enjoy a decent quality of life, IMO.
A Zen teacher at the end of a dharma talk finished with the words, "start there." Better somewhere than not at all.
CindyMax
August 4, 2008 9:04 AM | Reply | Permalink
This reply was for Sand, way up thread.
August 4, 2008 9:06 AM | Reply | Permalink
Those of us that have been in this for while had the pollyanna blush rubbed off awhile ago.
A wise old woman once said to me... Sometimes you have to work to get what you want and not just wish and hope away the hours thinking things will just come your way if you dream about them.
August 4, 2008 9:58 AM | Reply | Permalink