DEMPOV - THE Blog For The 2008 Election

I Refuse To Let The Blind Man Drive The Bus.

2008-05-08T08:19:00.003-05:00

Given the results of the Indiana and NC primaries, the sad reality has dawned on me that Hillary may not win the nomination. My support for her remains as strong as ever. However, that it's just become a little bit more challenging for her to win cannot be ignored.

Of course, this means I have to think about Obama as the nominee. While I've dreaded this thought for so many months, I can no longer push it aside.

To me, Obama represents a group of "Democrats" that have lost touch with real issues having an impact on Americans. They sit there, feeling superior, trying to tell me that Obama winning somehow eradicates slavery from our history. Call me crazy, but I didn't know that this is what presidential elections were about.

This election has NOTHING to do with slavery. This election is about saving this country from slipping from a super power to much, much less. This is a crucial time in our history when we need a leader who loves this country enough to save it. Obama has none of this love for America. I do.

The Wright comments paint a picture of Obama that his supporters see very clearly. Pundits go on the air and try to sell us some bullshit comments that somehow Obama is exonerated because "he didn't say it, Wright did."

And in what book is it that I can follow a spirtual leader for 20 years and not have people judge me by the company I keep? Since when?

We all know that this sheer nonsense. While they will NOT admit it, these people AGREE with Wright and by extension, they also agree with Obama. America is a bad country. America is evil. America made AIDS. America deserved 9/11. Innocent Americans deserved to die and be incinerated to death just because they went to work that morning. But they don't have the balls to say it. Neither does Obama. But none of them are fooling me.

Obama's "change" will usher in an era of an America that seeks to be weak. An America that loves terrorists. An America so far removed from common sense that it makes my head spin.

And while so many feel that this election is about slavery and race and making America better because of our ugly history, I beg to differ.

While slavery was awful and ugly, wasn't it AMERICANS that ABOLISHED slavery? Did not many whites die to free the slaves? Hello! Why is everyone neglecting that? Oh, it's because it's cool to bash America and hate it, that's why.

I always knew there were many idiots in America, but I never knew that there were so many willing to let the blind man drive the bus.

I cannot and will not vote for a man that has so little experience for the top job. And there is nothing about Obama that tells me he is somehow magically qualified to be some great leader when he has no real track record for me to judge. It's reckless and it defies common sense.

Back to that bus business. If there were a blind man behind the wheel, would you get on that bus? Would you feel safe with him behind the wheel? I wouldn't. The best choice to make when put in such a position is to not the let blind man drive the bus in the first place.

And since this is how I feel about Obama, I am left no choice but to vote for John McCain. Yes, after 8 years of praying for a Democrat to take over, this is where my party has put me. Where I have to watch Fox News and Bill O'Reilly to get fair coverage on this election, because others are so in the tank for Obama that it sickens me and the sound of their voices feels like torture.

They say that 40% of Hillary's supporters will vote for McCain if she is not the nominee. I think it's more than that. Apparently, I am not alone in my refusal to let the blind man drive that bus. Thank God for that. And four years of McCain may not be what I wanted, but it sure as hell beats the hell out of playing Russian roulette with the future of this country.

American Idol Meets Politics

2008-02-24T09:54:00.002-05:00

I write this morning with both fury and hope. I'm really, really disgusted with how the media has handled this election. It has been odd to me from the start the way Edwards was ignored, because covering Hillary against Obama was a better "story," but that's over and done now. And even as the media worked on erasing Edwards from the race, they were hammering away at Clinton, calling her names, calling Chelsea a hooker and basically making Bill and Hillary her pimps. SHAME on MSNBC and SHAME on Chris Matthews for other hateful comments which revealed his hate for women and then ditto for Shuster. I hope that nitwit is gone for good.

And now that we are very close to see the Paris Hilton of politics as the Democratic nominee, oh and I mean Barack Obama, I am officially disgusted with both the media and the stupidity of some American voters.

Rather than looking beyond speeches, they have bought into the con job sold by Obama and the media, and the worthy candidate, Hillary Clinton, is being written off once again, just like after Ohio.

No matter how ugly this has gotten there is one thing I share with Hillary, I'm a fighter. And it ain't over till the fat lady sings. Therefore, I will use every ounce of my energy to get voters in Ohio to vote smart and to vote for Hillary, the same for Texas., and everywhere else voters will vote on March 4th. I don't think I stand alone in my resolve, and I hope that all of you out there use your energy to fight back against the American Idol style election. This isn't a popularity contest where fools get to pick a winner, it is about the future of this country which I love. So, in the words of Hillary, let's "get real," and get serious about March 4th. We can do it.

I'm Mad As Hell And I'm Not Gonna Take It Anymore

2008-01-14T18:55:00.000-05:00

Of course, this is a line from a movie, but it applies to what I'm about to talk to discuss. That being the candidacy of Barack Obama. I've heard a lot about "change" from him, and I heard it so much that finally it hit me - how is he really about "change" when all he's doing is copying others that came before him? To me, that's not change. It's being a copycat, it's being unoriginal, and it reminds me of the way too many remakes Hollywood has given us in the way of "new" releases. They weren't at all "new," they were just movies based on other movies that came before them. Very much like Barack Obama.

To me, to be a force in politics, one must have their own original voice, their own original ideas, to be considered an agent of "change." But that is not the case with Barack.

Obama is no different than any other candidate out there. Except that he's bi-racial and except that he thinks he that he is entitled to legacy of people like MLK, or Bobby Kennedy. Well, that's not so. This is not something any of us are entitled to. These great men lived and died because they had a cause, a purpose, and a vision. Obama has none of that. All he seems to be preaching is that we should vote for him because he's half-black, and somehow this "change" is all America needs and poof! Just like magic, all of our ills will be gone!

It's childish, it egotistical and it's stupid. It is an illogical message that makes no sense and is not rooted in reality.

We need a president that knows the ropes and won't require on-the-job teaching. What we don't need is a guy who thinks he's entitled to be our president and wants to exploit the real and passionate dream of MLK.

Martin Luther King was great because he fought for what he believed in. Running for president does not make anyone great. Martin Luther King moved us with his speeches because it was what he lived and saw with his own eyes, which inspired him to desire change, and then he inspired everyone else.

There is nothing in Obama's history close to this. Nothing in his speeches that told me he led a life of disadvantage because of racism. So, Obama owes someone like MLK a lot for the life he's lived, because MLK fought and died and made those changes that helped future generations.

And all I have to say is, I think that Obama should show a little more respect to the great men that came before him, and he needs to realize that these men EARNED their place in the hearts of Americans for the sacrifices they made, and not for just repeating the words the others. They were original. They were visionaries. They were mavericks, the real deal.

Talk is cheap and Obama needs to walk the walk before he can talk the talk.

New Hampsire Comeback!

2008-01-09T00:08:00.000-05:00

Way to go, Hillary Clinton! What an awesome night for Clinton supporters and for America! This night was nothing short of amazing!

As you may already know, the Iowa results drove me slightly mad. I was upset over the defeat the Clinton camp suffered, and so I ranted and raved and bitched for days in between making calls to New Hampsire voters on behalf of Senator Clinton.

Of course, during the course of each day, the news was on TV. Cable news to be exact. Non-stop coverage of Hillary's loss in Iowa, coverage that predicted Obama as the winner in New Hampshire; coverage that was basically making it look like Hillary was toast. Of course, this only motivated me MORE to push for Hillary in New Hampshire, so I did. But, I was worried. Very worried.

The curious thing was the disconnect between the media and the voters in NH that I was speaking to on the phone. Voters were gracious and happy to get my call, happy to share with me that they intended to or already had voted for Senator Clinton. Of course, there were some assholes that hung up on me.

Anyway, I did call other NH volunteers, the ones that were working the GOTV effort to share with them this news that was not being reported on the news. Instead, the media showed Clinton being rejected by Obama supporters in NH. The other volunteers were pleased to hear what I was telling them, that the voters wanted to see a Clinton victory in New Hampshire.

At the end of the day, it looks like the extensive coverage that was hostile to Hillary helped her, the people were pissed that was media was prematurely calling it for Obama. What can I say but thank you, New Hampsire. Thank you!

How I Really Feel About This Obama Win in Iowa

2008-01-04T19:02:00.000-05:00

While I may have been born is Seattle, I was raised in New York. Throughout this post, you will hear New York talking. I really don't think this is the time for being polite. I don't care who I offend, because if I don't get this all out of me, chances are I'll explode.

I was excited yesterday because it was time for Iowa to get out there and vote. I thought the polls were so close and I really, truly expected a tie, and that's what we almost had really. I had CNN on TV and sometimes MSNBC and even Fox to see what the numbers were as they were coming in. I also had CNN's website on my laptop because they were giving us live action from inside the caucus rooms.

Then it happened. The media projected Obama as the winner.

I was stunned. I kept waiting for more results. I kept hoping as other precients reported, Hillary and Edwards would take it. Nope. That never happened.

And there was his face, all over the news, annoying the shit out of me, making me want to throw something at my own TV so it would all stop. I was not happy with Obama's lead.

How do I explain about how I feel about Obama? I've never liked him. I've watched this race with both eyes as each candidate announced they were in. I have listened to each and every one of them at the debates, read their websites, listened to the news, etc. And here we are, at a crucial time in our history, when America desperately needs a good, experienced president, and what did Iowa give us? Obama.

Unfuckingreal.

Unfuckingreal.

You can't be serious?

Are you fucking kidding?

Over Clinton? Over Edwards? Over Biden? Over all the others....?

No fucking way.

I can't take this. I'm pissed. In fact, someone could've set me on fire and I would have been less pissed off at that then I was at this.

In case you don't understand why I'm angry, please realize that we Democrats have eaten too much shit from Bush over the last 7 years, let's not even talk about what was done to Gore, or Kerry; forget about Iraq, the economy, Valerie Plame, Monica Lewinsky, the Clinton witch hunt; the complete disregard for our Consitution, and everything else, all I wanted was for us to seize the moment and choose a qualified Democrat to bring us victory this November. Did I ask for too much? Apparently I did.

And look at us now. Going into New Hampshire, with idiots standing behind Obama. With Obama saying he can win the White House if he wins in NH. Excuse me, but stop lying, pal. YOU CAN'T WIN THE WHITE HOUSE NO MATTER HOW MANY STATES YOU TAKE NOW. And therein lies my problem. I know that Obama is NOT the person to deliver a Democratic victory in '08. I am furious because others CAN win, like Clinton, or Edwards, two very fine candidates with qualifications and experience that would remedy the ills of America.

But no, now this. Now it's possible that Obama may win the nomination someday, and then he'll have to fight against Republicans. And I don't care much he dreams of uniting people and all this crap about "change" and "hope" which at the end of the day mean nothing because he's never told me anything memorable. The only point he drive home was that nonsense about him not voting for the Iraq war. Someone please give him a cookie and tell him to get lost. Obama can't and won't defeat Republicans. At least, I sure don't think so. This is a disaster. It's not what America needs right now.

So, here and now, I have to wonder what is wrong with some of the people voting in this country? Do we want to become irrelevant? Do we want to sink in status around the world? Do we want Republicans to win again? Well, it sure seems like it.

I don't know about you, but I sure hope voters all across America wake up and smell the damn coffee. This is not the time to gamble on some newbie like Obama, because if we do, we're going to lose, and we'll more than just the election, we'll lose all hope of ever recovering from the politices and errors of George W. Bush. And what should have been a temporary disaster will (most likely) become a permanent one. Tonight, I'm praying that voters in New Hampshire are smarter than the ones in Iowa.

What Voters Really Need To Be Thinking About Now.

2007-11-28T10:38:00.000-05:00

I know that we have many serious matters on our plate. As a country, we are burdened by war. The Middle-class has disappeared, gasoline prices are outrageous; the mortgage crisis is spreading faster than a wildfire, our dollar has weakened. Yes, we are in serious trouble. No doubt about it.

No matter, the Republicans will run just like the Democrats will. And we all need to sit back and go over what was done to Al Gore in 2000 and what was done to John Kerry in 2004. These two elections tell us just how dirty the Republicans are willing to play so they can win. Have voters of the Democratic party gotten it that our nominee needs to play dirty too?

I don't think so. My "I don't think so" stems from the placing of Barack Obama in the polls. There are some pretty naive voters out there that are missing the big picture. And while I understand their right to support the candidate of their choice (are you listening, Oprah?) I must remind them what we're up against - crooks and liars who will stop at nothing for victory.

Barack seems like a nice enough guy. I'd love to hang out with him someday. I'd love for him to have some slot on an international stage where he can contribute ideas to make America better. But sorry folks. Metaphorically speaking, Barack lacks the teeth to eat the Republican alive. He's too soft, too friendly, too new, not ready for prime time. Not ready to take on a machine that steals elections and corrupts true war heroes.

I have always admired and respected Bill Clinton. The same goes for Hillary, but all the nonsense about this issue and that issue don't matter, we have one issue that we need to focus on - beating the Republicans.

The person that can do this is Hillary Clinton. If Hillary Clinton is our nominee, then we have a good shot at the White House, and a good shot at saving America. So, voters, listen up, we have some great people on our side running for office, but if we underestimate the enemy again, we'll be in even bigger trouble.

If you want 4 more years of what the Republicans have given us, then go ahead and support Barack Obama, but if you want us to win, you'll make the smart choice, you'll support Hillary Clinton.

Barack Obama - you can't be serious.

2007-09-13T10:14:00.000-05:00

Having watched this race from Day One, I have to admit that the popularity of Barack Obama amazes me, and not in a good way.

From the start, I do think the media picked him as their darling, and so he's been front and center daily. But the more they focus on him, the less I like him.

Don't misunderstand, I like Obama. I think that he does have a bright future, and I think that he means well for America, but -

After 6 years of massive corruption, incompetence and stupidity in the White House, are we ready to take a gamble on an inexperienced man like Obama?

Not me.

And who among us cannot see through the packaging of Obama, the "new" politics he speaks of but the old politics that he engages in? This kind of hypocrisy so early on turns me off.

Rather than try to make his inexperience a positive by spinning it into "new politics" is pretty silly in my book.

Inexperienced is inexperienced, period. It is not a positive. No matter how his team tries to sell it.

Can I go and apply for a job and get it because I have "new politics" over my competition that has REAL experience? Of course not. Are the American people THAT stupid to buy into this nonsense?

I'm afraid so, but then again, I think that no matter the hype and the media coverage, the American people will do the right thing.

During our darkest hour, we need more than hope, we need more than spin, we need an EXPERIENCED leader to clean this mess, and Barack Obama is not the person for the job.

"Hell Hath No Fury..."

2007-07-14T09:02:00.000-05:00

You reap what your sow. What goes around comes around. Old sayings don't die for a reason.

I got to thinking last night about W. I got to thinking about how unloved he's become and how unloved he has been for a really long time. Then it hit me, what goes around, comes around.

I know that Republicans like to label us as unpatriotic traitors when we bash Bush and his policies. But let's go beyond the smokescreen, wipe away that lie, and expose the truth.

As Americans, Democrats are no less patriotic today than ever before. It is the culture of spin that the Republicans have created that attempts to label us. Nothing else.

I can speak for myself and I can explain why it is that I do not support Bush. We'll start with the year 2000, and we'll look at how he manipulated his way into office. While it is difficult to kill that old wound when Gore was robbed and the country was swindled, let me say that I am not over it. It was dishonest. It was unfair. It was unpatriotic. It made me angry.

But, it happened. I knew that I was not going to be a big Bush fan from that point on.

Then, 9/11 happened.

Suddenly, I understood that we were a country at war, and that I wanted to support my president.

Bush rose to the occasion and many said that he had found his voice during that time. I put my faith in him, and I trusted that he would protect America and get back at those people that did so much horror and harm. He had both of my ears when he spoke.

Many others were like me, ready to bury the hatchet over the 2000 election.

We went to Afghanistan and kicked ass. I was proud of that. It was what needed to be done.

Out of nowhere, there was some talk about Saddam Hussein and Iraq. You know what follows, fabricated intelligence, leaking of CIA agents, innocent dying in an illegitmate war, Bin laden never found - Bush and his team made us look like a joke around the world - the biggest, richest, most powerful country could not find/capture this one person! In fact, they let him get away at Tora Bora. So much for "Wanted Dead or Alive."

Katrina. More outrage, more lies, more excuses. More death. More destruction.

The list goes on. Simply put, Bush crushed my support and my faith. As many have said, from having our love and support after 9/11, somehow Bush managed to squander the good will of the people in favor of pleasing his elite pals.

I got the message -

My president did not love me.

My president did not love America.

My president did not honor our traditions and our laws.

My president was not patriotic.

My presdient was a liar.

My trust has been misued and abused. I had been lied to. My fellow Americans had been lied too. Our troops were dying side by side with Iraqi's. There was no apology for all this wrong. There was, instead, a stubborn demand sent out, mandating me to support lies, corruption, incompetence and disrespect. I could not do that. I cannot do that. I will not do that. No matter how many names you call me, it does not change that I am American. I am an American with the will and desire to love my president, but it's a two-way street, and you cannot have my love and support when you refuse to admit the ways in which you have hurt my country.

The polls show Bush's approval ratings being very low. I am not the only one feeling that my president has abandoned me. I am not the only one feeling that the president didn't want my love and support all along. He never cared, not then and not now.

Perhaps many think the relationship we have with our president is a public matter, but not really. If any person disregards you in the manner that he has disregarded the entire country, the end result would be the same. When you do your best to alienate many, you will have the support of a few.

In life, when we want to win someone back, we apologize for our mistakes. We apologize for our wrongs and try to make them right. At this point, I am realistic enough to know that this is NOT going to happen. My president does love me or this country enough to help us heal.

You know that other old saying, Hell hath no fury...

And I can't forgive you if you won't apologize.

The Revenge of Al Gore

2007-05-20T09:16:00.000-05:00

He's won an Oscar, he's been nomiated for the Nobel Peace Prize, he's on the cover of Time. I can go on listing the many wonderful acheivements of former Vice-President, Al Gore.

Looking back at 2000, when The Supreme Court and Scalia elected Bush, Al has come a long way. But yet, something about the way he was played so dirty only makes his current hot streak all the more satisfying. Former VP cheated of his role as president makes a comeback to become the hottest candidate without even entering the race.

Here's what I think. Al Gore is due his turn. I know that we elect our leaders and "next in line," in theory, doesn't apply. But here, it does. Al Gore has served America for his entire lifetime. He has done so with integrity and class, unlike other candidates (read: Barack Obama, too "new" to win anything in my book). I support Hillary Clinton, but, if Al Gore were to run, I'd celebrate and support him faster than you can say "recount."

Our country is a mess. No one disputes that. We need a man with some of Gore's integrity and experience in charge. If we want to restore American to the respected superpower that it once was, we need to use logia and reason in '08. I am a Democrat, but let me say this, with Hillary, Edwards or Obama, it's a risk, and we can't afford to gamble this time.

Hillary, female, risky.

Obama, African-American, too fresh, risky.

Edwards, also inexperienced, risky.

Like I was saying, we need a sure bet. And that bet is Al Gore.

Should he enter the race, it blows everyone else out of the water - on both sides - Dem and Republican.

I think the American people want a chance to set things right, and with what happened in 2000, I think we'd see justice in '08. Al Gore deserves it. The American people want it.

The First Debate - Winners and Losers Among Democrats.

2007-04-27T05:33:00.000-05:00

Like so many others eager to elect a new leader of the free world, I tuned into last night's debate on MSNBC. There were eight Democratic candidates on stage. I have to admit that since this race has started so early, I was glad to see the debate finally happening.

Overall, everyone did a nice job in my book. There were a few moments worthy of discussion. And the first I see as needing to be pointed out concerns John Edwards.

I like John Edwards. My money was on him last night, if not as the Democratic nominee, then at least as the winner of the debate. I thought he was going to doing very well considering his experience as a trial lawyer with Southern charm.

I was wrong.

I really don't care about his four-hundred-dollar haircut. I think he'd look just as good with a forty-dollar haircut. But, it's his money so he can do as he pleases. I had not heard that this haircut was paid for with campaign funds until I saw the debate. His admission that was a "mistake" was news to me.

I thought about it. As I've said, this race started early. But Edwards has made a few mistakes already. The first being that his staff leaked his announcement that he was running for an office a day early online. Kind of embarassing.

And now this haircut business. I think the haircut becomes an issue for Edwards only because he is the anti-poverty candidate. To preach helping the poor once you're elected is smart politics, but to compromise you're sincerity in spending THAT much on a haircut isn't all that bright.

On top of that, he said nothing special last night. I expected more/better from Edwards.

Hillary did very well last night. I saw nothing wrong with any of her answers last night. She held her place among her opponents and I was happy for her.

Obama, he was very rehearsed. I don't understand the hype surrounding this guy. He comes as smart, but not smart enough to fix the ills America faces right now. His tendency to talk "new politics" while enaging in old politics doesn't impress me.

For me, Biden was fresh last night. He was both charming and serious, and dare I say, presidential. Having the spotlight for a few minutes did him well. The "yes" moment was great. His answers were on the money. He was at ease and seemed to be having fun actually, while the others seemed too serious most of the time.

He took the most from last night's debate. We'll have to keep an out to see where it goes from here, and only time will tell if my statements about Biden are right.

What We REALLY Want To Hear From Candidates

2007-03-09T09:38:00.001-05:00

In light of the manner in which serious matters were botched during Bush's time in office, we need a debate about competency. We want to hear that unqualified people will be immediately terminated and off the payroll. We want qualified people that can do a good job and provide valuable service to the American people. In short, we want to stop wasting tax-payer dollars paying large salaries to idiots who aren't worthy. Will any candidate come forward and demand that higher standards will be implemented and kept at all levels of Government?

Katrina, 9/11, The War in Iraq.

Billions of American dollars "missing" in Iraq.

Troops going without.

Afghanistan.

Bin laden still free.

Gas prices out of control.

Weak job market.

No health coverage.

Foley.

Hastert.

Cheney.

Rumsfeld.

Rice.

Bremer.

The above listed issues have resulted from the above listed individuals that were clearly NOT capable of their duties. Let's be clear. They do not deserve their titles or their paychecks. So why are they still on the payroll? Yes, Donald Rumsfeld is gone, but I think we all agree that he was there for far too long.

Part of being an American means having pride. But with these people making the news each day with another failure and another disaster makes my head spin.

Have our standards sunk so low that we no longer know the difference between a poor performance and a great one? Why are their so few brilliant people on our payroll? What ever happened to taking pride in one's position rather lying, spinning and blaming Bill Clinton?

I'd LOVE to see this debate happen. I'd LOVE to hear that someone else has noticed this revolting trend, and I'd LOVE if they promised to reverse it.

We are a country that loves to talk about our children. But are these the "heros" we want our kids to look up to? Lying incompetent unpatriotic people that got in because of who they knew, rather than because of what they could do.

I think we can do better than that.

An Open Letter To Senator Hillary Clinton

2007-02-17T12:11:00.000-05:00

Dear Senator Clinton:

There are some of us out there who care about your positions beyond the war in Iraq. While I am personally tired of hearing about your vote to authorize the war and do not hold it against you, I am glad that you have properly addressed the matter. But let's be done with it. I know it isn't your fault that this question of your vote is repeatedly thrown at you. To me it is a non-issue, and your statement that you'd end the war in Iraq once elected is good enough for me.

So, this leaves us in a new place. A place where you can address other pressing matters regarding our country. And I am curious about how you'd take this country to a better place overall.

What would you do about the economy? About jobs, the quality of jobs and the quantity.

What about healthcare? How would remedy the crisis?

About our global image, it has been badly damaged thanks to Bush, what would you do to make things better?

About N.Korea, Iran and Iraq, what needs to be done? But this question ties into the war on terror, and therefore, what are your plans on dealing with nation-states we cannot trust to fight terror? Safe-havens are popping up again in Afghanistan, what is your remedy? And so we hear that Pakistan isn't exactly turning over terrorists, how do we deal with that?

Education, especially the costs of higher education, what else can we do to help more families see their kids go to college?

These are some of the things I'm curious about. It sure would be awesome if anyone out there gave you the opportunity to address these things rather than just go on about the past and the vote for the war in Iraq.

Biden Comes Out Swinging.

2007-01-31T23:30:00.000-05:00

Joe Biden wanted to make some noise as he threw his hat into the ring. Well, he sure did, and - as I think many are saying right now - he probably made more noise than he intended to.

It's unfortunate that so many took Biden's comments regarding Sen. Obama the wrong way. I think that Biden intended to compliment Sen. Obama on his obviously good, "polished" qualities. I also take it that Sen. Biden meant to express that while Obama may be slick and media-savvy, he lacks the governing experience to run this country and become our president.

These are tricky times.

A candidate may come across as articulate, sharp, and handsome. An empty suit, as they say. And again, this is more the point Biden was trying to make. Obama looks good on the surface, but scratch the surface and you may not find critical presidential qualities there.

Again, these are tricky times.

Our relations with the Middle East are deteriorating by the minute. We're in Iraq with no solution, and Iran is playing games with us. This is very serious, but I didn't have to tell you that.

Things with N. Korea aren't pretty either. Basically, we have disasters waiting to happen in a few places.

That Senator Biden made this minor error is trivial to some, but very serious to others. I think they're opinion is that if Biden can so quickly slip up that maybe he can't handle being president. And maybe he can't.

Some talk about Hillary and make her out to be cold, cautious and too controlled, then on the other end we have Biden, speaking freely and openly, and he's taking a beating for it. I honestly feel sorry for our politicians, they can do no right almost. It really is unfair, and I think we need to have some uniform standard instead of different rules that change for different people.

Is that Hillary is a woman that we demand she be warm?

Is that Biden is a man that we expect him to be cold and calculating?

Is it that Edwards is attractive we need him to prove he's smarter?

Is it that Obama is an African-American we expect him to prove he's perfect?

Personally, I find Biden's personality rather refreshing. I also happen to think that Hillary is fine as she is and doesn't have to change. I don't think Edwards or Obama have to prove anything more.

And not yet. We have time. We have the debates, and this is where it REALLY matters - when tough questions are put out there and they have to answer and take a position; they have to answer on the spot, off the cuff, and be themselves. No speeches, no notes, no consultants - just a candidate and a mic. But in our tricky times, trivial things become big news, and the big news becomes trivial. Go figure.

Hillary's In And She's In To Win!

2007-01-27T15:35:00.000-05:00

What an exciting week this has been for Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY)! She's made history with her recent announcement of her presidential run, and she's doing it with great ease.

I'm not sure what it is, but Hillary seems rather warm and relaxed on TV these days. She was interviewed before and after the State of the Union on MSNBC. She seemed quite comfortable in her own skin. Not at all the wearing the the ice-queen label in any of her recent appearances.

I've made it clear here in the past that I support Edwards, but also that I found Biden an interesting candidate, well, now let me add to that Hillary is looking better and better each day.

She's in Iowa right now, where polls have her behind Edwards and Obama. No matter, she drew a massive crowd who was filled with enthusiasm and thrilled to see her. Iowa seems to have laid out the welcome mat to Senator Clinton in a big way.

Of all the candidates running, Hillary leads the pack with her prior experience. Having occupied The White House for 8 years, I'm sure she's picked up some good experience. Having been our Senator in New York only adds to her resume. And let's not forget her years with Bill when we was Governor.

Hillary knows government. But so does Biden, however, Hillary is a stronger candidate in terms of her team/staff and her fundraising capabilities, and of course, let's not forget her husband, our wonderful former president, Bill Clinton.

I admit it, I am a Bill Clinton fan. I would LOVE to see Hillary run and run well and get both herself and Bill back into the White House, I'd be in Heaven. We all know that Bill Clinton has done great things for America when he was in charge; our economy was strong, jobs were plentiful, our image abroad was in intact, and our president did an outstanding job.

So far, the only negative the Media has thrown at Hillary is her vote for the war. I think many voters don't hold this vote against her. Congress was mislead by faulty intelligence designed to fool them, just like they fooled us. How can anyone seriously make more of her vote than that?

Overall, this is becoming a very exciting time for Democrats. And the more I see of our party, the more certain I become that we'll have a new Democratic president in 2009. From all us here, good luck to Senator Clinton! And thank you and President Clinton for all the good you both have done for our country.

EIGHT MORE KILLED

2007-01-23T11:07:00.000-05:00

Eight more members of my brother's brigade in Alaska were killed on Saturday. Your assistance will be greatly appreciated. (see article immediately below this post).

Supporting the Troops: Fallen Soldiers' Memorial/Remembrance Fund

2007-01-20T21:34:00.000-05:00

My brother is stationed at Ft. Richardson, AK, and is stateside, for now, as he has been on medical hold due to knee surgery. As such, he's had the heartbreaking duty of assisting with death notifications and arrangements for those soldiers killed from Ft. Richardson, including the Post's official memorial/remembrance ceremonies. Ft. Richardson lost 12 brave men during December; that's more than 10% of all of the troops killed during that terrible month.

It seems, there are no official Army funds for these services, and the few men and women back here at home responsible for arranging and conducting these traditional military services have been taking money out of their own pockets for flowers and the printing of memorial tribute cards, etc., which can be several hundred dollars for each service.

Soldiers don't really make a lot of money, and they generally have families to support. However, I assure you, you'll never hear one of them complain about it - it is an honor and a duty, and they will make whatever sacrifices are asked of them with all the dignity you would expect.

Recently, an account has been set up for donations to Ft. Richardson's Fallen Soldiers' Memorial/Remembrance Fund. All money donated will go for expenses directly associated with conducting these customary military services, and should any funds be left at the end of this war, they will go towards a memorial wall on Fort Richardson dedicated to all those who have given their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan.

If you would like to truly "support the troops," particularly those who have given their lives and deserve every honor and acknowledgment that can be afforded them, please send your donations (they must be under $1,000 dollars each).

Make the check out to: "4-25 Rear Detachment Unsolicited Funds"

And Mail to:
C/O Rear D S-1
Headquarters, 4th BCT (ABN), 25th Infantry Division
724 Postal Service Loop #8400
Fort Richardson, Alaska 99505-8400

For verification, you can contact the following Ft. Richardson officers:
Treasurer: Capt. Clifton Holmes (907) 384-2219
Public Affairs: Kirk W. Gohlke: (907) 384-1542
Major Charles Greene: (907) 384-9710

Also, here is Fort Richardson's website: http://www.usarak.army.mil/alaskapost/. I am hoping they will soon have some information posted there for further verification.

I would also encourage everyone to contact their local military installations to see if they need similar assistance. I know that all of us safe at home want so much to do something to contribute. We are asking a lot of our soldiers. This is something we can do.

Thank you for your consideration, and please pass this information along to all the people you know.

"If You Can't Stand Behind the Troops - Stand in Front of Them."

Blood In The Streets

2007-01-16T16:20:00.000-05:00

by Teresa Beau

I'm certain it's not the first time blood has run in the streets of Baghdad, but it's certainly the worst. Yesterday, over 100 people were killed in bombings and shootings in Iraq's capitol, including attacks on Baghdad University.

Four of those killed were United States soldiers assigned to the 4th Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division.

Prime Minister al-Maliki's response to the killings was to blame Sunnis, claiming the killings were reprisals for the brutally botched hanging of Sadam's brother-in-law, which resulted in his decapitation. Al-Malaki stated, "the remnants of the previous regime were dealt a severe blow that put an end to their fake dreams forever."

It is becoming more and more obvious that all dreams for a peaceful, free Iraq are "fake dreams." The United Nations has reported that 34,000 Iraqis were killed during 2006, and 2007 is starting out with more massacres.

Additionally, Iraqi cabinet ministers and legislators loyal to Shia death squad militia godfather, al-Sadr, were instructed to end their six-week boycott of the political process, giving al-Sadr the controlling voice in the Iraqi legislature.

In the midst of this ramped-up sectarian violence, and blood literally running through the streets of Baghdad, our President has ordered that approximately 21,000 American troops be added to those in-country, by extending the tours of those already in Iraq and by returning those recently cycled out of Iraq before their scheduled date. He is sending our young men and women, exhausted from the horrifying day to day carnage, without the promised respite, to Iraq to guard the "inmates in the asylum," in some futile attempt to keep them from slaughtering each other.

These words may sound harsh, but just what else would you call it at this point? There's no new strategy, no new ideas, no new diplomatic or political solutions. NOTHING! And NOTHING our troops can do will stop this 1,400 year old hatred and blood-letting. Pres. Bush is merely sending them to stand, and even die, in the blood-filled streets between two raging monsters determined to gnash each other to pieces. If Israel were killing Muslims at the rate Iraqis are killing each other, there would be a cry of outrage like no other from many of the very same people who are now doing or sponsoring the killing!

Of course, I agonize over the global consequences of a middle east that is enthralled in a sectarian war for the ages, but I wonder if there is anything at all our presence there can do to stop it. There are forces who can have an effect, and perhaps even broker peace in Iraq. They are Arab forces, such as Iran, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, etc. Not only do they speak with the same voice as the Iraqi people, but they have much more credibility with those in Iraq than President Bush.

Our Congress must act, where our President is unwilling, and bring Iraq's neighbors to the table, and they must act to stop the escalation of our forces. In a country where the violence is already escalating, on a moment by moment basis,U.S. escalation will only add more of the blood of our young men and women to the blood flowing through the streets.

(Please take a moment to listen John Edwards' speech Silence is Betrayal in which he describes OUR responsibility to speak out, act, and make a difference: http://www.johnedwards.com/media/video/mlk-day-riverside-church/)

Let's Talk About Biden

2007-01-08T20:11:00.000-05:00

I'm not crazy about Hillary. I'm not sold on Obama, but I really like Edwards. So, this was where I was at last week, and had been since the mid-term elections were over.

Senator Biden then comes along announces on Meet The Press that he is running for president.

Hmmm. Suddenly, I'm a little confused. Because I am happy that Edwards is making a second run, and I'm sold on his domestic ideas. But Biden is the flawless candidate (in my book) on foreign policy. And right now, both foreign and domestic policy are crucial to America.

There is some part of me that wishes we could merge both Edwards and Biden into one candidate to make the perfect Democratic candidate for 2008.

Of course, reality kicks in and I realize that we can't fuse Edwards and Biden, but another idea soon follows:

An Edwards/Biden ticket? A Biden/Edwards ticket? I'd be thrilled with either combination. Of course, voters will eventually decide. And the only place I can fault Biden is that there is no info regarding global warmimg on his website, but otherwise, I think he's a strong candidate.

So, is anyone else out there feeling a bit torn between two Democrats? Feel free to share with me and comment on your reaction to Biden's announcement.

If you want to read more on Biden, you can go to his website, or you can read a blog on The Huffington Post written by Robert Guffman:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-guttman/bidens-foreign-policy-cr_b_38144.html

DIRTY TRICKS AND CHRISTMAS TREATS

2007-01-07T12:04:00.000-05:00

by Teresa Beau

Several days ago, New York Daily News reporter, Ben Smith, received a Christmas treat from an unidentified source reportedly sympathetic to one of Rudy Giuliani's opponents, a copy of Giuliani's 140 page campaign strategy dossier.

Giuliani spokeswoman, Sunny Mindel, more than hinted that there were political dirty tricks afoot, stating, "I wonder why such suspicious activity is occurring and can only guess it is because of Rudy's poll numbers in New Hampshire and Iowa."

Reporter Smith revealed a select few details from this "plan," including the rather juvenile and somewhat degrading way in which some of the potential candidate's most generous campaign fundraisers were categorized, in sports terminology: "MVPs, "All Stars," and "Sluggers."

Smith further quoted from dossier notes that indicate that Giuliani may well "drop out of [the] race" due to his embarrassing and "insurmountable" personal and political associations, including: his private sector business; the candidate's former aide Bernard Kerik's reported elbow-rubbing with mafia types and criminal indictments; and his well-known martial and alleged extra-marital escapades.

Giuliani, was a National iconic figure of strength and decisiveness after 9/11. However, in reality he left a rather slimy film on the N.Y. mayoral mansion, with his highly publicized court drama wherein he attempted to move his latest ex-wife out of the mansion and his mistress in. All of it reads too much like the plot of a bad LifeTime movie.

I just can't help wondering - are these guys serious? He can't even manage control over his own top-secret pre-campaign strategy, much less his sizeable libido. One thing this Country doesn't need is yet another likable buffoon in the White House.

The campaign dossier even acknowledges that "[a]ll will come out - in worst light," and estimates opposition forces will spend at least "$100 million against us on this stuff." Seems that is an all too telling statement, and the irony of it is that the worst may come straight from Giuliani's own document. Smith is holding the dossier close to the vest, and no doubt plans to drop more such stink bombs on Giuliani's presidential aspirations in the weeks and months to come.

Should make for some juicy reading.

We The People

2007-01-02T13:14:00.000-05:00

by Teresa Beau

On November 7th, this Country took back some of its power! Bravo to us! There has been so much dissatisfaction in the air with the state of our government and the way Republicans have been running it.

Until November 7th, the people of our Nation had either accepted the lying and spin, the corruption, the pandering, the ends-justifies-the-means tactics, and the Rove-style slaughtering of all forces of opposition as "politics as usual," or we've ranted and raved impotently. Those days are OVER! We, as a Nation, stated loudly and clearly that this is OUR COUNTRY, and we will take responsibility for it.

We had become complacent and disillusioned, and the Bush Administration took advantage of that. Finally, the American electorate stopped holding its nose and swallowing the bad medicine of the Bush Administration. The "sleeping giant," the people of this Nation, have awakened, and we have realized that we will get the representation and the government we deserve. We have stopped taking our democracy for granted.

We must continue on this path of empowerment and reject the polarization tactics that have torn us apart. We are ALL AMERICANS, and in order to meet the grave challenges we face, we must each stand up, together. We must again, remember our ideals in order to change the course of our Country and the World.

One must be an idealist to bring about change and a pragmatist to understand the changes that are necessary. We need a leader who embodies both, and in John Edwards, we have found that leader.

Together we can TAKE BACK OUR COUNTRY from those have led us down the wrong path.
__________________________

"Here sir, the people govern!"
Alexander Hamilton
(speech to the New York Ratifying Convention, June 17, 1788 )

Edwards, Money And The Media

2006-12-31T12:10:00.000-05:00

Political junkie that I am, I've been paying close attention to the media coverage Edwards has been receiving even prior to his announcement.

First of all, I've been curious as to why the media seems to be smitten with Hillary and Obama. And the majority of reporters seemed to be mentioning Edwards very briefly, and only at the end of their discussion with words like "second tier candidate."

I found this odd. The manner in which they had been handling Edwards implied he wasn't all that, in their eyes of course.

OK, flash-forward to his announcement. I think it was on CNN, as Senator Edwards stood where Katrina has destroyed homes and Fema had failed so many, where Edwards has generously gone to help rebuild homes in that devastated community, the network plastered beneath the image of Edwards:

"MULTI-MILLIONAIRE RUNS FOR PRESIDENT."

That was it. I knew that I was right, and I knew that the media had it in for Edwards. I still don't understand why. With so much praise and flattery for Obama, why such tactics and games with Edwards?

I think any person with a one-once brain could see through their attempt to cut Edwards down by making it a point to refer to him as a "multi-millionaire." It was an attempt to point out that John Edwards, who clearly understands that there are two Americas, certainly doesn't live in your America. The populist candidate isn't sincere seemed to be the implicit message from the media.

More of this from CNN. Another interviewer questioned Edwards about a home he and his wife were building and stated that the home was worth some three-million dollars. Why do we have to know that?

Overall, I truly feel the media has an agenda here, and that agenda is to make Edwards appear as if he is insincere when he talks about dealing with poverty, which would hurt him with voters. Well, not with this voter. I have a mind of my own, and I see the game being used here and it makes me angry.

Personally, I feel that if this keeps up, we should nail 'em on it. We should write/email in protest to this obvious yet subtle attempt to sabotage Edwards.

I think I'm money on this one, but if you disagree, tell me so. And if you agree, I'd like to hear that as well.

Lastly, that Edwards was able to succeed as an attorney and made his own money only makes me respect him more. I don't see how this quality can be twisted into a negative, and the attempt on the part of the media to do so is shameful.

Click here to read Chris Matthews comments on the same subject:

http://hardblogger.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2006/12/28/23108.aspx

John Edwards - The Right Leader at the Right Time

2006-12-30T00:55:00.000-05:00

by Teresa Beau

Polarization, it seems, has been the political strategy of choice over the last several years. It is a strategy that has torn our great Country apart and created a bitter divide that has become more and more difficult to breach, leaving our national psyche broken and yearning for a voice of wisdom, unity, and inspiration. In John Edwards, we have finally heard that voice.

As a Nation, we find ourselves facing challenges that will not only shape our future, but indeed, the future of the World. We have many pressing domestic challenges, including: alternative energy innovation and conservation, our educational systems' inequities, poverty, racism, immigration, national security and terrorism, a shameful lack of ethics and integrity in our government, an ever ballooning national deficit, and the critical need to restore our Gulf Coast to not only what it once was, but what it must be in order to sustain itself in the future, along with many others.

Perhaps the most pressing of the challenges we face, however, are those we face as the World's enduring leader and the "bright light" for freedom, justice, and equality. The current Administration has let that light dim, but we are not diminished. We do remember "The America We Believed In." John Edwards has reminded us, inspired us to take charge and work as one to meet these challenges. In our finest hours, this is how Americans have always faced challenges of great magnitude.

This Country, throughout history, has set a shining example for the World. Our diversity, tolerance, and compassion have made us strong and brought us a unique creativity and wisdom. John Edwards has inspired us to remember the America we all believe in, and to stand up and take action and responsibility, each and every one of us, together. Only together can we tap into the fierce will, courage, and determination with which we have always prevailed over tyranny and hopelessness. We must now, more than ever, provide the leadership and stability the World has been lacking.

We find ourselves bogged down in Iraq, with no strategy or compass, our brave and honorable military and the Iraqi people sliding deeper and deeper into an abyss of pointless violence, and other nations, such as Darfur and Uganda, have been sliding, unchecked, into violence and hopelessness.

For too long, we have acted as individuals, unable to reach inward and outward to restore the reason, hope, and dignity necessary to guide the troubled nations of the World towards peace, prosperity, and security.

Our greatest leaders have always asked great things of us, and together time and time again, we have achieved that greatness. John Edward is asking great things of us, and he has the vision, leadership, and experience to guide the way.

Let us join together, and stand up to face these challenges. Now is the time and John Edwards is the leader.

The Obvious Choice in 2008

2006-12-22T20:50:00.000-05:00

The Obvious Choice in 2008

Every generation has a shared experience, a set of circumstances that shape and define their lives, and sadly, ours is looking like a generation defined by economic oppression and a lack of opportunities. That life has become more stressful and that more of us are struggling to keep a roof over our heads is clear, and that we have less than our parents had at our age is also a cold reality.

In New York, it has been said that rents have tripled in the last decade; people no longer can afford to move out at 18. In fact, adults in this economy move out somewhere near the age of 30. So, rents have tripled, but our salaries have not.The quality of jobs, fairness in wages, and disappearing benefits have impacted our personal lives in countless ways; we're working harder, many households are either 2 or 3 income families, not by choice but by necessity. We're working more hours often because we need the overtime and some are taking 2 jobs to make ends meet. Suffice is to say that we're working more, but we're getting less.

Benefits are no longer a given, and corporate America has found a loophole to cheat workers - part-time workers don't qualify for benefits. Part-time workers also don't get paid sick days; 401K(s) are becoming something we fantasize about. Having two part-time jobs is something of the norm, even among those that hold advanced degrees.In an economy that oppresses so many, I think we're all ready for a leader who will stand up to corporate greed, a leader that detests the manner in which workers are being exploited; someone that cares that workers are not being paid fair wages, someone that realizes that America has to right this wrong being done to Americans. Suffice it to say that we are all ready for what is long overdue in this country - kinder and gentler capitalism.

The leader that seems to understand this is Senator John Edwards (D-NC). Senator Edwards is bravely doing what most politicians fear - pointing out corporate greed and standing up for the worker. Many political figures look to corporate America for contributions, and so, a certain blindness exists in them, and "see no evil" means that the evil is allowed to flourish and the exploitation continues. But I think our leaders can do better than that. I also think that we've seen enough corporate influence in Washington. And the way to stop this madness is to send a non "insider" to Washington in 2008.If being experienced and a Washington "insider" means seeing more failures on domestic policy, then we're far better off electing someone without this kind of "experience." Senator Edwards does not come across as a man entrenched in Washington dysfunction and corruption, rather, this "outsider" with common-sense values has a pure desire to serve the American people. His focus on domestic policy puts America on the right track.

While we all comprehend the seriousness of foreign policy and our global image, Senator Edwards seems to have brilliantly recognized what Washington "insiders" seems to have missed, and his platform of America putting Americans first is exactly what America needs.Ours is a great country, and when Americans are at their best, they are a fair and generous people with a will and a desire to help everyone around the world, but when we fail to provide economic opportunties at home, we strip America of her ability to remain the benevolent superpower that she is.

We must invest in our people, and we must develop a domestic policy that enables us to educate our people, and to provide them with good, soild jobs. To squander our assests abroad and neglect our people at home seems to be the policy of our current leaders, and this is to the peril of our people and our country, and also, to the rest of the world. Keeping America strong by nuturing its citizens benefits the entire world, and it seems that John Edwards has put two and two together on this critical matter.Our ability to have a postive impact on the world starts at home; on your block, in your city, and in your state. And when each and every American is given the promise of a better tomorrow, they're more likely to do better today. The bitter divide in this country stems from the "two Americas" that Senator Edwards has so eloquently spoken of in the past, and his wonderful vision of one America sounds good to me.

In a America obsessed with the mess in Iraq, nukes in N.Korea, and tensions with Iran, it sure is refreshing to see that someone knows the root to healing these ills starts with healing our own ills at home first. For if we fail to solidify our country and nuture our citizens, it then becomes of matter of when, and not if, we'll sink. Therefore, all I can say about someone like John Edwards is, it's about time.