Jeffrey Burke's Blog

Commercial suggestion

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 21:42:30 EDT

This is my suggestion for a commercial - it is bad, but should really drive the point home...

A young girl (12-13yo) is in the sitting room of the Doctor's office alone and afraid. The doctor is talking to the mother:

Mother: "Is she Pregnant"
Doctor: "I am afraid she is"
Mother: "When can we schedule and abortion"
Doctor: "I can't - it's illegal and considered murder"

Mother: "What - but she was raped"
Doctor: "It's still illegal"
Mother: "... by her father!"
Doctor: " doesn't matter.
Mother: " but she's 12!"
Doctor: Blank Stare

I know this sounds really extreme, but this is a very likely reality under McCain/Palin.

McCain - just like Bush

Sat, 06 Sep 2008 01:45:07 EDT

McCain is working through his Alaskan allies to quash the investigation against Governor Sarah Palin for Troopergate. This comes the day after McCain chided his own party for being corrupt and losing its way. Additionally, McCain made sure every speaker reminded everybody that he was a POW and suffered as few people do who serve in that position.

In selecting Palin, McCain has proven to be the consummate hypocrite. He condemns earmarks, yet selects a person who is one of its greatest abusers. He speaks of honesty, but selects someone who methodically lies. He promises responsible government, but works to cover up corruption investigations in Alaska. He promotes community service, while Palin, and the GOP ridicule community organizers. McCain even reaches out to Obama with one hand, and mocks him as a supposed Messiah with the other.

What is worse, is that a person who fights for his country is so devoted to divide it for his own political ambitions. Playing on race, inexperience, fear of terrorists and focusing on his character, rather than our concerns.

His experience is 35 years past him, and he lives in comfort and luxury that few people can only imagine. People who suffer under the Bush/McCain economic plan are much like prisoners of war, but the different sides in this war are less clear. Whether it is the financial institutions that exploit potential homeowners, the corporations who believe that people deserve to make $1 a day while they make millions, or the government agencies that create a system of education that forever enslaves our children to multi-generational poverty, they are all prisoners of a government in conjunction with business that imprisons its citizens and limits its economic potential.

What makes this system worse than McCain experience as a POW is that the little man has no chance of escape, and no reason to hope, unless there is a change at the governmental level. Without affecting a fundamental change in our government and its policies, we will continue to remain prisoners of these policies.

Worst of all - McCain has made clear that his suffering matters so much, and that ours is meaningless to him. His voting record is the giant paper monument to this, and it is time to bring his great hypocrisy down.

He does not have the right to torture us, just because he was tortured!!!!!!

Why Bristol Palin's (alleged) baby matters:

Sun, 31 Aug 2008 23:08:14 EDT

There is a bigger point here. If anyone is attacking her children, that is wrong and it shouldn't happen.

If she lied to spare her daughter her reputation, many may understand to a degree - if she did it for her daughter.

The prospect that Palin may be concealing her daughter's birth has several political implications:

1. She is a strong proponent of Abstinence in schools - she may not like the example that her daughter Bristol set.

2. She is a strong advocate against abortion - in all circumstances.

3. If it is Bristol's baby, she lied methodically and across the board to everyone about it. If she did not, she put her baby with Down Syndrome at risk of death by flying 8 hours back to Alaska instead of going to the hospital - neither scenario represents good judgment on her part.

4. If she has made her daughter ashamed of having a baby at 17yo, it is understandable to a point. But to conceal it - imagine what that must be doing to her daughter - the degree of shame she must unnecessarily feel.

This is the kicker...

5. She has incorporated the birth of her Down Syndrome into her political platform as a demonstration of her personal conviction and as part of forming a compelling story about who she is.

Exposing this as false would make her into a liar and hypocrite on so many levels. Whereas I could forgiver her for trying to spare her daughter any unwarranted social judgment, her embracing of the circumstances (at her daughter's expense) to advance herself would be unforgivable - especially by the conservative base.

This should be looked into - if true, it demonstrates the epitome of the level of hypocrisy within the republican party.

McCain does not care about Katrina Victims:

Sat, 30 Aug 2008 22:07:50 EDT

McCain Voted Against a Commission to Examine Government Response to Katrina.

In 2005, McCain voted against creating a congressional commission to examine the federal, state and local response to Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf Region. Senators Obama and Clinton both voted in favor of creating the commission. The motion failed 44-54. [H.R. 2862, Vote #229, 9/14/2005]

McCain Again Voted Against Katrina Commission in 2006.

In 2006, McCain again voted against establishing a commission to investigate the response to Hurricane Katrina, including the federal government’s role and the impact of the disaster. Both Senators Obama and Clinton voted in favor of the commission. The motion failed 44-53. [H.R. 4297, Vote #6, 2/2/2006]

McCain Voted Against Investigating Waste, Fraud, and Abuse.

In 2005, McCain voted against an amendment that would establish a committee to investigate waste, fraud and abuse in the awarding contracts in Iraq and Afghanistan, and for the reconstruction after hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The amendment failed 44-54. [HR 3058, Vote #259, 10/19/05; HR 2862, Vote #228, 9/14/05; S 1042, Vote #316, 11/10/05; S 2766, Vote #176, 6/20/06]

McCain Voted Against Expanding Unemployment Benefits in Wake of Katrina.

In 2005, just two weeks after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, McCain voted against allowing up to 52 weeks of unemployment benefits to an individual as a result of a major disaster under the Disaster Unemployment Assistance Program. Both Senators Obama and Clinton voted in favor of extending the benefits. The motion failed 43-52. [H.R. 2862, Vote #234, 9/15/2005]

McCain Voted Against Granting Katrina Victims Access to Medicaid.

In 2005, McCain voted against granting access to Medicaid to victims of Hurricane Katrina for up to five months. The amendment would also provide full federal funding for Medicaid in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama for up to one year and provide $800 million to compensate providers caring for Katrina evacuees. Both Senators Obama and Clinton voted in favor of assisting the Katrina victims. [S. 1932, Vote #285, 11/3/2005]

10/2003: McCain voted to TABLE an amendment for $322,000,000 for safety equipment for USforces. "Table"= vote never hits floor.

10/2003: McCain voted to TABLE a vote for $1 Billion for National Guard and Reserve Equipment in Iraq dueto:shortage of helmets, tents, bullet-proof inserts, & tactical vests.

Barack's Philosophical Justification to go on the Attack.

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 04:29:48 EDT

Late at night, if I am up, I ponder deeper than normal thoughts. This is such a night.

It has occurred to me that Obama is philosophical, and has received a classic education - one which may not lend him instinctively to fight back as a course of action, but to try to stay above the fray.

With my Catholic upbringing, I remember the writings of St. Augustine of Hippo - he characterizes the four conditions that characterize what is known as the Just War Doctrine. They include:

* the damage inflicted by the aggressor on the nation or community of nations must be lasting, grave, and certain;
* all other means of putting an end to it must have been shown to be impractical or ineffective;
* there must be serious prospects of success;
* the use of arms must not produce evils and disorders graver than the evil to be eliminated. The power of modern means of destruction weighs very heavily in evaluating this condition.

Given the perilous state of our nation, I am convinced that Obama has the complete justification to use all methods of campaigning to defeat McCain.

Obama always discusses what Dr. King describes as "The Fierce Urgency of Now". Certainly, a solid case can be made for the four qualifications given above that fit our sense of urgency in this campaign.

The Doctrine above was written in the first half of the first Millennium AD. It is old, and it has been the common standard used by civilized nations as a benchmark for when to decide to fight. If Obama is looking for a moral justification to excuse an inner compass that prohibits him from engaging in anything less than Just War, come to terms with what we are up against, and especially resolve the fourth quality, that your campaign will all tool to win.

To quote Churchill, I know this one by heart: "What is our aim? I can answer in one word: Victory! Victory at all costs; Victory, in spite of all terror; Victory, no matter how long and hard the road may be - for without victory, there is no survival."

These are the stakes for the United States. Let us work to ensure, as as citizens of the United States, we do not find ourselves, as Schiller said about revolutionary France that, "A great moment has found a little people."

Quote from McCain supporter from Saddleback church:

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:47:30 EDT

"We are one of those people that make over $250,000 a year, and I don't agree that that makes us rich," said Melinda Sacks, who runs her husband's law office in San Clemente, referring to Obama's answer at the forum that put her in the "wealthy" category. "Even with that kind of income, we struggle to pay everything we have gotten ourselves into."

http://www.salon.com/news/feature/2008/08/18/sunday_at_saddleback/print.html

Quote from McCain supporter from Saddleback church:

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:47:29 EDT

Russia's ultimatum!

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:55:53 EDT

The fact that Russia is flexing its muscles right now is not good for the world situation.

Some facts to clarify the world situation

1. Russia invaded Georgia, a bordering country after Georgians provoked problems in Russia. Russia's response was considered disproportionate, but it was not without provocation.

2. The US supported an invasion massive bombardment of Lebanon when two Israeli soldiers were captured and taken hostage.

In both of these situations - why is Israel justified and Russia is not? Also, why was Israelis' response considered proportional and Russia's response considered disproportional?

3. We fabricated intelligence to invade a country on the opposite side of the earth, close to Russia.

This takes away our moral authority from defending the right when other nations act with aggression.

4. The current unnecessary war in Iraq leaves our military committed beyond our ability to back up diplomatic negotiations with the threat of force.

I am not saying or advocating any use of force, but Russia is painfully aware of our commitments, and sees fit to exploit them.

5. President Bush is sending Naval and Air Force units for "Humanitarian" Missons.

In the light of Russia's ultimatum, such aid performed by military personnel path the road for incidents to occur that can lead to World War III, and I strongly believe that China would join in on the side of Russia on this.

What is important here is that we urge our government to not commit ourselves to actions which can plunge the world into absolute disaster. Additionally, Obama needs to highlight the world situation, and the glaring weaknesses of the Bush administration to weakening our position in the world to cope with such issues in a diplomatic and military manner. Essentially, it is the failed policies of the Bush administration that have led us to this moment - and may well lead us to WWIII.

For those who say we need to hit back hard...

Thu, 07 Aug 2008 18:14:46 EDT

I have heard many people say that we need to hit on McCain HARD. There is part of me that agrees with this thinking. However, the Olympics begin tomorrow, and the nation will take a political break for the next couple of weeks - which I think is much needed.

Let's consider our current position.

1. Nationally, Obama maintains a narrow but solid lead against McCain - a lead average of 5 points is not small potatoes.

2. State-by-state, Obama continues to maintain his base of states and is now maintaining stronger in Republican states, like Iowa and Colorado. In other states, these have narrowed, but Obama has stabilized it and is still ahead.

3. While McCain is focused on full campaign mode, Obama is laying a ground game in several battleground states, which is unprecedented in presidential politics. The groundwork of today will lead to the groundswell of massive turnout on Election Day.

4. Recent polling has suggested that 48% of Americans are sick of hearing about Obama. This is important in two respets: first, the media, after the Olympics will likely shift its focus more on McCain as a result of this polling; second, McCain's messages about Obama will not reach an Obama saturated audience as effectively, which will make future ads less effective.

5. McCain's negative ads are early, and have tarnished his brand - the only plausible reason for which he is still so close to Obama. Americans can only sustain and stomach these type of ads for so long, and McCain has to now extend their shelf life to the election which is not likely to work before they begin to backfire. Remember how we feel at the end a presidential election cycle, when we are glad to see all of the commercials end.

What happens after the Olympics:

1. Once Obama completes his Convention in Denver, the republicans will have to follow that act - that will be a hard act to follow.

2. Once the two men debate face-to-face, it will become clear who has the grasp of economic issues. In the second debate on foreign policy, Obama will also be strong in his ability on indicating how many people have adopted his approach to international crises.

Keep working and keep the ground game going, but we are in good shape - keep you eye on the prize.

McCain Campaign to accuse obama of infanticide:

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 00:08:16 EDT

The republicans sink to the abyss of the campaign cycle.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/08/04/the-next-smear-against-ob_n_116891.html

Cheese and whine for a day, then Move On!

Sat, 02 Aug 2008 04:48:22 EDT

I do not mind people venting, as many of us contribute to the campaign. As long as they realize that no real alternative exists to resolve most of our problems.

If the republicans are going to play dirty, by bringing up offshore drilling now when they controlled congress for 6 years under president bush, it is political. They want to create a situation that Barack cannot win.

When they play that dirty, we will have to get dirty too. So Barack did the pragmatic move - I'll bet large money that the oil is never drilled in his administration - much more expensive to drill than the numerous other sources on land left undrilled.

People have complained that Barack has not been aggressive enough - that he needs to get dirty; others are complaining that he is compromising his principals.

WE CANNOT HAVE IT BOTH WAYS!!!!!!!

What is omnipotent is to win! If you watched Recount on HBO, that point would be crystal clear. The republicans are without principles and will bleed this country dry until it becomes a third world nation. I do not believe Obama will do that. He walks a fine line, and he will not always do it perfectly, but given his past success in defeating the Clintons in the primary, I believe he will do what it takes to win.

For those who say the luster is lost... REALITY CHECK!!!!

Sat, 02 Aug 2008 01:43:36 EDT

Given that Congress is cutting a deal to make this happen, it would have been difficult for Obama to stand in opposition to it without appearing that the Democratic party is divided.

In truth, we are still a very divided party. Those of us who are talking about losing enthusiasm over FISA and offshore drilling are understandably disheartened. An event today gave me a reality check.

One of my neighbors across the street lost their home today - husband, wife, two children (one with Spina Bifida) and their dog. The husband lost his job, his health insurance, and their dog was turned over to a shelter, because they cannot take the dog to where they are going (I am not sure where that is). To see the family have to leave their home and the 8 yo daughter in the wheel chair without insurance to pay for their bills was heartbreaking. The family was devastated - especially the mother.

When I saw that today, I realized how important it was to get Obama elected. All the flap about offshore drilling that will likely never take place and FISA which will probably be reversed paled in comparison to the irreparable damage this family is enduring. It made me eternally thankful for my job and home and more determined than ever to get Obama elected.

We know that under McCain, there will be more of these scenes relived (not to mention the continuation of FISA and more offshore drilling), and record oil prices and profits without any energy plan. For that family today, I doubt none of this mattered.

Gallop Poll Rigged for McCain

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 23:51:34 EDT

How much value should be placed in the Gallup Poll results?

http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/7/30/111024/383

Think like Obama

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 19:42:44 EDT

Everyone on the blog here:

We know that McCain is incompetent to lead, and that the Republican machine will come out blasting with negative adds against us.

If you are getting angry, that is a good thing. If you do nothing about it, that is not.

So what can we do to fight the tide and channel our energy:

1. Donate, donate, donate

2. Phone calls - lots of them, especially in the battleground states

3. Register voters

4. For the creative types: make your own humorous commercials attacking McCain about his age. Age and Race are entirely different topics. People retire and collect Social Security at 66 for a reason - it is legal to do so for a reason. Age is a valid concern to address, as it can impact judgment and other capacities. Get these commercials sent to the media and make them viral to drive the point home about how old McCain and his politics are.

McCain should listen to his mother.

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 18:58:54 EDT

It seems that even McCain's mother was not terribly happy with the ad against Obama that included Paris Hilton:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/08/01/roberta-mccain-chimes-in_n_116387.html

McCain Strategy

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 18:56:45 EDT

Since the Olympics will begin next Friday, McCain is trying to plant the seeds in Americans that raise doubts about Obama's Character, and hope that they linger during and after the Olympics. They produce cheap ads, and let the media show and discuss them for free.

If we have any people that are good with videotape editing, someone should hit McCain where he is most vulnerable... his age. Putting him on commercials with Mr. Magoo would drive the point home.

Buy some Obama Buttons sold in Berlin

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 22:57:49 EDT

In case you are interested in purchasing a unique piece of history from the campaign trail - Buttons from Berlin that are being sold.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Set-of-6-Obama-Buttons-Sold-at-Berlin-Speech-on-7-24-08_W0QQitemZ130241584749QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item130241584749&_trksid=p3286.m14.l1318

McCain and swiftboating - how to respond:

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:02:15 EDT

I've been reading a lot of posts about how we need to respond immediately to the charges from the McCain camp not caring about the troops. When I think about the conduct of the campaign, I have learned a few things:

1. Obama has not let anybody swiftboat him - his responses have almost always been appropriate and well timed. In the instances when they have not been, he has learned from his mistakes.

2. Obama's third commandment - "No Drama" is one that he has been also excellent in following. These recent attacks can easily be reacted to in a manner that would not be good for the campaign.

If I were Obama, I would choose to respond in the following way:

1. Get leaders with Military background together, and denounce McCain's words and actions. This will include Kerry, Reed, Hagel, and others.

2. Deliver a major speech (the ones that always get the media's attention) that outlines the charges and outlines McCain's paltry voting record in assisting disabled veterans - let it speak for McCain. He could also talk about the surge in detail where he will be allowed to offer a complete analysis about the decline in violence in Iraq and the multiple factors that have contributed to its decline.

This should be well-prepared and coordinated to ensure that a comprehensive effort is initiated to not only neutralize McCain, but to turn the argument against him.

Sometimes, you have to let you opponent set themselves up to be taken down. The delay in the reaction may well be the window of time necessary to allow everyone the time to hear the false accusations that McCain is saying, then use those same accusations to show him to be both a liar and a disgrace and diservice to our disabled veterans.

Be patient - Obama would not have gotten this far if he did not know what he was doing.

Presidential Debate schedule for the fall:

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:34:01 EDT

FIRST DEBATE
Presidential debate
Debate focus: Domestic policies

Friday, September 26, 2008
University of Mississippi
Oxford, Mississippi

SECOND DEBATE
Vice presidential debate
Debate focus: Domestic and foreign policies

Thursday, October 2, 2008
Washington University
St. Louis, Missouri

THIRD DEBATE
Presidential debate
Debate focus: Issues raised by audience members in a Town Hall format

Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Belmont University
Nashville, Tennessee

FOURTH DEBATE
Presidential debate
Debate focus: Foreign policies

Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Hofstra University
Hempstead, New York

Sunday Haiku

Sun, 27 Jul 2008 15:20:17 EDT

Barack Met The Press
McCain Snuffelupagus
Winner Obama!

McCain fumbles on ABC

Sun, 27 Jul 2008 13:46:06 EDT

the HuffPo has an article about how McCain fumbles this morning on several issues.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/07/27/mccain-fumbles-his-this-w_n_115206.html

The media can only ignore his incompetence for so long before they focus on all of his foibles.

Media more negative on Obama

Sun, 27 Jul 2008 12:54:00 EDT

Recent research has concluded that Barack Obama receives more negative criticism than John McCain.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/07/27/study-networks-much-tough_n_115184.html

McCain's Oxymoron Political ad

Sat, 26 Jul 2008 19:24:30 EDT

McCain chides Obama for not visiting troops using footage of Obama visiting troops.

Oh Magoo, you've done it again!

http://www.politico.com/blogs/jonathanmartin/0708/About_that_gym_visit_cited_in_McCains_new_ad.html?showall

More Haiku

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 22:27:22 EDT

Barack Obama

A new tsunami of change

the tide is turning.

My best Haiku to date:

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 19:17:56 EDT

Barack Storms Berlin
He overtakes its old wall
And builds a new bridge.

Hagel: Quit Talking about the surge.

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 01:33:25 EDT

Fresh from his trip from Iraq, Hagel urges the presidential candidates (McCain) to move on to our future objectives:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/07/24/chuck-hagel-quit-talking_n_114883.html

O'Reilly defends McCain on Viagra

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 23:08:12 EDT

According to O'Reilly, medical insurance should pay for Viagra and not birth control. Why?

Because Viagra treats a medical condition!

On a side note - BillO did seem a "little" defensive.

Link

Hillraisers donate less than $20,000 to Obama in June

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 22:06:36 EDT

We help raise $2.4 million for her debt, and they help with less than 1% of that total. Pathetic!!!!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/07/21/hillraisers-donated-less_n_114100.html

This blog is dedicated to Meri who loves writing haiku about Barack:

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 23:30:23 EDT

Show me the money
Here's looking at you, Barack
Obama "Hope Airlines"

I must go to work

I need a cup of coffee

Obama to go

Congratulations for reaching your fundraising goal and for all the fine work you do for the campaign.

The Upcoming Obama Landslide

Sat, 19 Jul 2008 00:53:05 EDT

Although Obama and McCain are close nationally, when comparing the states, it is shaping up to be a landslide:

http://www.observer.com/2008/politics/state-polls-indicate-obamas-tidal-wave-potential-national-polls-are-tight-both-are-rig

Obama merchandise outselling McCain 5:1

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 22:59:52 EDT

If only the vote were this much of a landslide:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/07/18/obama-merchandise-outsell_n_113724.html

McCain Exposes Obama Iraq visit plans - compromises security!!!!

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 22:33:04 EDT

McCain revealed that Obama would be in Iraq this weekend.

This should never happen, as he should know, as he has traveled there four times - as he likes to remind us.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/07/18/mccain-leaks-details-of-o_n_113682.html

He was especially upset when the media reported that his son was there, so he knows better.

Either this is great incompetence or he is deliberately exposing the Secret Service, CIA, Military Brass and Obama himself to mortal danger!

This is absolutely reprehensible and should call into question McCain's credentials to be President.

Phil Gramm timeline:

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 21:58:49 EDT

What is Phil Gramm's status in the McCain campaign:

July 8th: he's in
July 9th: he's out
July 17th: he's in
July 18th: he's out

I think he needs to bring Cindy with him on the campaign trial more often:)

Where was McCain

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 02:51:59 EDT

McCain did not attend an Afghanistan meeting in two years.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/07/17/mccain-attended-zero-afgh_n_113452.html

Bill Clinton ready to campaign for Obama

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 02:50:01 EDT

It looks like we will see Clinton and Obama together.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/07/17/clinton-says-hes-ready-to_n_113383.html

Why McCain can't keep Sunni and Shi'ite straight?

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 02:47:55 EDT

Example of how McCain views the world.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkNF-0QsQOE

Add PUMA to the animal CRACKERS box!

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 01:25:19 EDT

Please read what leads their blog below - this come right from the top of the organization: GOD WILL GUIDE THE HAND OF JUDGMENT THAT WILL STRIKE YOU DOWN! 'picture of Obama appears below at their site' A note to maniacs who make death threats: They don’t work. They harden the opposition to your cause because they expose your true nature as a homicidal bully. They also rally the support of the vast majority of decent people who are outraged by the tactic. You turn your target into a hero, and if you succeed in either murdering or inciting the murder of your victim, you turn her or him into a martyr. Not the best plan. I’m a grown woman and I’m not afraid of bullies — never have been, never will be. But I do have children, and anyone who has lost their mother at a young age understands the profound and long-lasting grief that flows from that. Anyone who threatens me or any of the the other women in this movement with death for expressing our political views peacefully and lawfully will fail at frightening me — but he will succeed at terrorizing innocent children. And THAT makes me angry. Senator Obama’s supporters asked Hillary Clinton to publicly distance herself from a long-time Hillraiser fundraiser and loyal supporter, Ricki Lieberman, who is working day and night to save our party from a landslide loss in November by highlighting the weaknesses of Obama the candidate. Senator Clinton promptly complied. Perhaps we should ask Senator Obama to “distance” himself from his supporters who are threatening women who oppose him with death? What do YOU think HIS response will be? THE OBAMA MOVEMENT’S CALL FOR DEATH TO WOMEN WHO OPPOSE HIM WATCH So far, my list includes these women. If you have received threats of violence or death from Obama supporters because of your political activities or writing, or you know someone who has, please tell us in comments. Also send me an email at murphy@pumapac.org see for yourself: Link

Why the DNC has no contributions - and why this is a good thing.

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 01:18:22 EDT

The democratic fat cats loyal to Hillary Clinton threatened to withhold their large donations to the democratic party - and they have followed through.

This is a good thing - it means that WE own the party, and we owe them NOTHING!

No longer will there be kickbacks to them.

No longer will there be favoritism to the wealthy and privileged.

No longer will there be the influence of the Clinton within the government anymore.

If there is any reason that Bill is mad at Barack - Obama is destroying the influence of Bill Clinton's powerful network.

That can only be good news.

Remember Josie

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 10:13:17 EDT

****Edit: For those of you who’ve seen this before , please O-mail your friends and e-mail your pro-Obama friends and family about this blog if you’ve felt particularly inspired by it. If you want, O-mail me and I’ll send you a pre-made message that can be sent to anyone. Thanks again, everyone, for all of your help! Yes We Can!****

Everybody, please take the time to sprinkle some magic dust on the dreams of an ❤ adorable, precious little girl.❤

Barack, as you know, will be in Berlin on the 24th of July and will speak at the Brandenburg Tor!!!

Please read the story of a little girl with a ✴BIG dream✴ and if you find it in your heart, help her out.

[we are NOT asking for any kind of donation/money/service. This is about more than that].

❀✿ “Remember Josie" ✿❀
Link

There are instructions following her story that will tell how you can help We only have 8 days left.

HQ has told us we should do it this way. So PLEASE don't just pass this thread by. Take the time to read her story and ... Remember when you were Josie.

You all have the unique opportunity to be Fairy Godparents for a young girl’s wish. Isn’t this something worth being involved in, ObamaNation?

Please help make Josie's dreams come true.

Thanks

P.S. I hope you will also leave a short comment on the blog so that Josie may know how truly loved she is.

Also, if Josie's story has inspired you, please pass this along to friends, family and contacts.

Who took the fall for Cindy McCain's drug use?

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 01:43:54 EDT

Read on - McCain is not an honorable. Kudos to Calbear for the article. http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/1994-09-08/news/opiate-for-the-mrs/full

PUMA accuses Obama supporters of death threats!

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:57:17 EDT

Actually, I will not retract my words on PUMA, I will instead post some of the comments being written by people at the PUMA site:

#560 Jeremy on 07.16.08 at 12:43 am

A death threat Murphy? Jeez… I have to say, what is WRONG with his supporters?

In my opinion, “they” are out of control. Barack has left this “PR” stuff to unqualified and unintelligent surrogates. There is no “oversight.” Again, in my opinion, the order has been–do what you need to do to counter any negative. 18,000,000 -1 = 17,999,999
and we still are not gonna change our minds.

#493 MountainSong on 07.16.08 at 12:12 am, WROTE,

[[ Is Obama an alcoholic or on some kind of pills? Every time I hear him talk now he sounds dumber and dumber. Maybe he just needs to take a vacation~~~for about 8 years. ]]

He’s a cocaine user….
Oooopse… he say’s he used to be.

But if you ask me, he still is…
Unless it did something to his brain…

Cause the man can’t think on his feet.

Like today,
He said he is going to invade Pakistan.

The poll results also show that Obama would have an easier go of it against two of McCain’s chief rivals for the Republican nomination. The presumptive Democratic nominee leads former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney by eight points 49% to 41% and former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee 50% to 39%.

However, McCain fares better against Obama than he does against two other prominent Democrats. New York Senator Hillary Clinton leads McCain by eight points, 50% to 42%. Former Vice President Al Gore, the Democratic presidential nominee in 2000, leads McCain 50% to 43%.

http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/election_20082/2008_presidential_election/obama_leads_bush_by_twenty_but_clinton_does_better_against_mccain

BHO is on his way OUT

HILLARY IN ‘08
There can be no other!

Please Help - a must-read!

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 21:50:43 EDT

My run-in with PUMA

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 20:01:50 EDT

I decided to open an account with PUMA to see if what everyone was saying about them was true. I signed in as a Hillary supporter and made some probing remarks. The PUMA People were supportive of not using any racial comments and seemed fair about being unfairly critical of Obama. There were viewpoints I disagreed with, but nothing on the deep end. I did not stay too long before going to bed.

When I woke up the next day, they had tracked down my dashboard and left a message on one of my blogs to say that I had been "PUMA Pounced" - appearantly, they used my email address to track down my info here and then trash me on their page. They thought I was a paid Obama operative, because my name had 233 at the end (which is a classroom number I once taught in) They made the normal snarky comments one would make about a troll and moved on. Given that I did present myself falsely, I understood their concerns and reactions - I also think how we react when we have McCain's people in here.

First, I give them credit for being able to track down my information so quickly - it shows that they are well-organized and vigilant about Hillary Clinton's support. Second, most bloggers seemed more determined to support Hillary than eventually vote for McCain over Obama - for me, that would be the ultimate betrayal. Third, I see a lot of ourselves in them, with the notable exception that the sting of Hillary's defeat still has them determined what they perceive (right or wrong) to fight for a just cause. Finally, like a good spy movie, they have people that come over here too:)

I tried to post to their sight today to apologize for posting under false pretenses, though my intent posed no ill will whatsoever - I have already been blocked out. I will mail them the link to this blog for them to read.

To any PUMA person reading this here, if you read my messages, you will see there was no divisiveness or malice on my part that was intended. To me, that game does not belong in the Obama campaign, and is reflective of the Republican tactics. What I did want to know is if your intentions and actions represent what is still best about the Democratic or what is worst about the Republicans. Thus far, I concluded that in spite of your initial reaction to my perceived intent, your heart is in the right place.

My letter to the New Yorker

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 23:38:33 EDT

To Whom This May Concern:

As a former New Yorker, I cannot tell you how ashamed and horrified I am by your latest cover of the New Yorker. As a publication that has a high reputation for quality, competent and objective reporting, this cover has set your reputation into the mud with Fox News, and other Corporate news agencies, whose aim serves the corporate interest of reporting whatever maximizes profits - whatever the cost to objective reporting.

Whereas I read the intention of the artist who prepared your cover, he must have known, as well as the publishers, that this would draw widespread attention. His claims that this was intended to mock or diminish the false rumors being spread about Obama, certainly a portion of the typically sophisticated readership who subscribe to the New Yorker would derive that message. For the vast majority of Americans who will view this cover in the media for the next weeks to come, there will be two other reactions: one group will respond with the reaction of revulsion at the characterization of a incredible human being that very well may be our president; the other reaction will be among the casual political observer that have heard about the "Terrorist Fist Jab" comment purported by Fox News, reinforced by your drawing, and subconsciously reinforce these rumors that are all projected in this image.

As advertisers, you are certainly aware of the impact of imagery, whether directly or indirectly intended. In your profession, there is no excuse for error in this, nor question about its intent. I would have expected this from Fox News, who recently took images of the Daily News reporters and distorted them, but for your magazine to adopt the same practices of an inferior, dare I say, non-news agency speaks volumes about the future of press coverage and the susceptibility of any news agency to being compromised and diminished.

If it is attention you want, it is attention you will get. Not only will you receive our opinions about your coverage, but your major advertisers will also hear from those who are disgusted with your portrayal of our presumptive Democratic nominee. This will be an organized and collective effort to ensure that any media outlet who ever considers doing this in the future will understand that "swiftboating" in the name of objective journalism will not be without consequences.

Contacting the New Yorker magazine

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 20:00:16 EDT

If you have seen the upcoming cover and want to protest - please look below:

Contact for the New Yorker advertising directors:

Terese Cunningham
Advertising Director
Telephone: 212-286-2105
E-mail: terese_cunningham@newyorker.co m

Maria Tenaglia
Advertising Director
Telephone: 212-286-6993
E-mail: maria_tenaglia@newyorker.com

Daniella Wells
Marketing Services Director
Telephone: 212-286-7479
E-mail: daniella_wells@newyorker.com

Email: themail@newyorker.com

Mailing:

The Mail
The New Yorker
4 Times Square
New York, NY 10036

What the soldiers in Iraq think about the media:

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 19:41:43 EDT

If you want to know what the soldiers think about the media's coverage of the Iraq war, read the link below:

http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/7/12/234210/510/465/549726

9 killed American Soldiers in Afghistan

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 15:50:27 EDT

Such an event should begin to vindicate the Obama foreign policy doctrine he has been proposing - sadly.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/07/13/afghan-suicide-bomber-kil_n_112362.html

What's the difference between Bush and McCain on the economy?

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 15:41:24 EDT

Mark Sanford draws a blank:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtL4l_Rsls0

Bill Clinton must be Vetted if Hillary will be chosen for VP!

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 00:04:04 EDT

How come Bill Clinton does not release his list of donors to his presidential library?

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article4322684.ece

What to tell the Trolls...

Sat, 12 Jul 2008 22:14:20 EDT

What do we tell the trolls:

The Republicans are right - that the democrats are the ones that are out of touch, because the Republicans know that in spite of the recession, the housing crisis, the stock market decline, the bank take over and bailouts, the rise in oil and the declining dollar - that this is all psychological.

Washington Post - Gramm was right!

Sat, 12 Jul 2008 14:55:08 EDT

Please see what Amity Shlaes of the Washington Post has to say about Whiny Americans:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/07/11/AR2008071102543.html

How the Clintons can recoup their money

Sat, 12 Jul 2008 14:42:57 EDT

When Mississippi towns are flooded, people are losing their homes, banks are being closed, donations to pantries are down and the Republicans are suffering, it is hard for me to take sympathy with the Clintons and the losses they sustained during the campaign.

Even if they do not recover a dime of their campaign loans, they will still be worth over $100,000,000 dollars - Bill Clinton has still not revealed all of the money he has made for all of his various endeavors. It might just as well be Warren Buffet asking me to help him out because one of his investments went bad.

Have the Clintons personally ever contributed their money to help a home owner save their house to prevent a family from becoming homeless? If they have not, why should we return the favor.

The best way that the Clintons can recoup their losses? Help Obama be elected and restore their reputation. In doing so, Bill Clinton will help to restore his reputation in order to command the same fees for speaking engagements he did before the campaign. Additionally, it will enable him to retain his political connections in DC and around the world to exercise his influence.

The flip side is the following: If Obama wins without the Clintons, an Obama administration would not only leave the influence of the Clintons diminished, but would also work to consolidate power and diminishing the role of people connected to the Clintons.

With all that is going on, the Clintons need to rethink how they will regain their reputation and their lost wealth. Only by accepting that Obama is now the democratic leader and helping him along do they stand a chance of again prospering.

Rights of Native Americans

Sat, 12 Jul 2008 02:02:51 EDT

One of the issues that is always referenced during a campaign but never addressed are the rights of Native Americans.

Learn more at the link below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwjd3s7UXL4

Large screens for Obama's acceptance speech

Sun, 06 Jul 2008 23:20:22 EDT

Would it be possible to set up large screens to broadcast Obama's acceptance speech in several cities nationwide. People could even do it in small towns in town halls for people to have the chance to be together.

Thoughts please...

Obama flip-flop - or the media as flip-flopper

Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:00:52 EDT

The media lately has been using the term flip-flopper with Obama lately. They accusations have revolved around faith-based initiatives, FISA, his stance on the Iraq war and more. To the casual political observer, one may believe this, but as one who has studied the views, there is little evidence to support this. In fact, I believe the case can be made that it is the media that has been accused of flip-flopping, bias, and other non-professional practices that govern the ethical and professional practices.

First, the mass-media is in the business of making money. This is best done by producing controversy. Whereas McCain is a well-known commodity (at least his projected persona), Obama is new and as such, his persona in the media is still being formed. How does the media make more money and generate more interest? By saying things that reinforce Obama's greatness, popularity among the people and his message of change, or by raising controversy, and trying to catch him in contradictions. After the major media outlets generated record profits during the Democratic primary by covering controversies (some real and others they generated), they figure the same model will work here. Given that the election is likely to be a blowout for Obama (if histor applies here), this is what they must do to maximize their earnings.

Second, there are many more media forums to compete with than there used to be - three run news several hours a day, and this appetite for engaging news needs to be fed.

Finally, I believe that the media moguls fear an Obama presidency - I say this because the phenomena of media conglomerates is new in the American experience. Laws used to forbid consolidate or large corporate ownership of the media. I believe that Obama may intend to break up these interests and return us to the days where the media and its people actually report news, instead of taking its cues from corporate offices for the purposes of maximizing profits. Such a model as it currently exists borders on fascism (please look up the real definition if critical of the point), and our old system of media ownership needs to be restored.

In short, the media will take the facts, and flip or flop and flip-flop them depend on the agenda of the media institution. Do I miss the days of Walter Kronkite...

Obama and the FISA vote.

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 18:49:15 EDT

I have tried to picture what would happen if the weekend before the election, a terrorist attack would occur in the US. People here on the website are fairly intelligent and understand the particulars, the distinctions and the ins and outs of the bill.

Now think about the average american - the american who does not have the time to actively keep up with the news, study the policy differences or understand the the particulars about the 4th amendment.

If we were attacked, all the republicans would say is that Obama opposed FISA, and he is to blame for the attack.

However irrational the argument, I believe that there are enough americans who in the narrow window of time directly before the election would buy that argument. Additionally, I put NOTHING past the Republicans in power to get elected - whatever it takes - WHATEVER it takes!

I believe Obama is seeking the compromise to take this issue off the table to avoid such a scenario.

We have survived suspension of rights in the past, and I am confident Obama would restore them if elected. Lincoln, Wilson and Roosevelt all suspended various civil liberties protected in the constitution. I feel confident that upon his inauguration, Obama would right was is currently challenging our constitutional liberties.

Obama, Olbermann and Fisa...

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 23:46:15 EDT

As a sniper, you will often lay low, study your target and only take the shot when all the circumstances are ideal. It does not help the sniper if the winds are irratic, the opponent is out of range or if the opponent is under cover or too close; nor do you shoot if you may get some flack and be killed yourself. This advice is sound politics as well.

Olbermann mentioned this evening in his broadcast that Obama may have a second chance to right his FISA vote, as the bill does not grant immunity for communication compaines from criminal responsibility - only financial lawsuits. Given that Obama was Editor of the Harvard Law Review, a college professor on law and a civil rights attorney, I feel quite certain that Obama already knew this befor Olbermann telegraphed it across the world. In fact, I will dare say that Obama may have passed the bill now in ordre to ensure that he could not only revoke future immunity from financial lawsuits, but also criminally proscecute the communication compaines as well.

Olbermann went further, suggesting that Obama should insist that he claim upon passing the FISA bill that he would work as president to ensure the communication compaines would be proscecuted.

If Obama had this intention as president, he may have wanted to not to show his Royal Flush, or be flushed out of his sniper hole this soon. Perhaps the political winds are too irratic now and is out of range and under the cover of an administration that will go as far as granting clemency for outing a covert agent of the CIA.

In such an environment, no one could be convicted as Bush could pardon them all, and a split senate would NEVER convict him. So you wait for the time to be right, for the winds to calm and for your target to be exposed. Then you act!

Patience is necessary now, for only under an Obama Presidency will justice be served.

Obama visits wounded veterans.

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:53:03 EDT

This is one of many reasons I like this man - he would not exploit veterans for his benefit.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/06/29/barack-obama-quietly-visi_n_109826.html

Bubba - take a chill pill.

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:19:05 EDT

Bill Clinton has expressed the sentiment that Obama will have to 'kiss my ass' for his support. I cannot tell you how infuriating I find this sentiment.

First, it only demonstrates to what degree Bill Clinton felt that his wife was entitled to the nomination. Contrary to popular belief and recent past practice, the presidency is not an office to be past from family to family. The last time a Bush or Clinton was not on the presidential ticket was 1976 - you have to be at least 50 years old to not consider a vote for one or the other.

Second, Bill Clinton's greatest opponent was not Barack Obama - it was Bill Clinton. Hillary needed Bill's legacy to launch into politics, but his was his performances on the campaign trail in the YouTube era that caused so many problems for the campaign. Bill never made the adjustment, and seemed to lose some of his polished edge.

Third, Bill and Hillary were out-organized, both on the ground and financially. As the first Gen-X president (officially, Obama is a baby-boomer, but by only a few years, and Obama grew up outside of the influences that shaped that generation), Obama was able to utilize the internet to Organize supporters at so many levels, the Clintons were blindsided by the new form of campaigning, and could never catch up.

Fourth, Obama took nothing for granted. Whereas Clinton focused on the big states, Obama went for all 50 states, with particuluar emphasis on Caucuses that were often ignored in their efforts. His organization allowed him to do this.

Finally, the country was ready for change. Hillary Clinton was certainly capable of bringing changes that would have benefitted us, but with the continual political stalemate in Washington DC since 1995, the country is ready for a different approach to politics. Only an outsider could offer that fresh perspective, and Obama was, and is the only candidate to provide it.

Before Bill continues his tirade, he may wish to consider that the US has already been very good to him. He came from humble beginnings to rise to be the most powerful person in the world. In his anger with Obama, it would serve him well to look outside himself: consider the families that will lose their homes, while he asks for donations so that he can be worth $100 million dollars instead of $88 million; consider the families whose loved ones are overseas, who come home injured, maimed, and in body bags while as a young man, he dodged the draft, and his daughter never has to consider the military as an option to pay for school; consider those americans who have to consider how much less food will be on the kitchen table because it is going in the gas tank; consider the american who no longer dreams because the opportunities that existed for their parents no longer exist for them.

Many of these people are bitter and angry - bitter because they have lost their home or a loved one in service - bitter because they do not have the opportunity to live the american dream - and they have the right to feel this way.

Bill Clinton is bitter because his wife did not get the nomination - and he can't let it go. Disappointment is understandable, but bitter and angry - Bill Clinton is not justified in that.

His bitterness and anger stems in an opportunity lost that a handful of people over the course of over two centuries have had the opportunity to seek. If he wants to bring his case for why he is bitter to the homeless, the families of fallen and maimed soldiers and those that no longer believe and live the American Dream, he is free to do so, but I suspect he will not have a receptive audience.

Setting up an Invade Iran Watch.

Sun, 29 Jun 2008 23:24:07 EDT

Since it is coming out today that we are laying the ground work for an invasion of Iran, we should set up an Invade Iran Watch. When it happens - which I am afraid is inevitable, it will be no surprise.

We need to take the wind out of this preemptively that McCain will gain if this occurs, and I would not be surprised if it happens in October.

SNL - ghost of shows past...

Sun, 29 Jun 2008 00:24:48 EDT

How great it was that George Carlin was selected to open the very first episode of Saturday Night Live.

I was only 5 when I watched it on TV for the first time - one of the few perks from being raised in a dysfunctional household.

How great it was to relive such an era - especially to listen to Janis Ian play "Seventeen" when musical talent played on the show.

Guess I'm just feeling a little nostalgic tonight...

How to deal with Bubba:

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 20:43:46 EDT

It is in the media lately that Bill Clinton is upset lately with Bill Clinton about the manner in which he accuses the Obama Campaign to make Bubba look like a racist. How does Barack handle this?

When they meet, Obama would be wise to let him speak his mind, rant and rave, even let him wag his finger a bit. Let Bubba exorcise all of the demons and ill feeligs he has, and let him decompress.

Once that is done, Obama will have his turn. He simply needs to reassure Bubba that it is in his best interest to bring the party together, and part of that entails restoring the image of Bill Clinton.

How will this occur?

There will be a joint campaign effort with Bill and Barack, in which Bill will concede that in the heat of the campaign, things may be said in the spirit of competition that can come off the wrong way. Now, he fully supports Obama. Obama will follow Bill's words and say that there were exchanges that took place on both sides, but also follow to say that Bill Clinton's presidency made valiable contributions to the freedom and prosperity of African Americans, and that I (Barack Obama) could not be here today without the ground work laid out by Bill Clinton as president. Some specifics will be offered to tout Bill's credentials, and by the time they are done, Bill's reputation will be much healed and many of the hurt feelings will be effectively addressed.

Such is the delicate dance of politics.

How can Obama lose this election?

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:07:12 EDT

When considering all of the issues that matter to people, there is only one that McCain consistently beats Obama in polling - national security. For the moment, The Economy and the war in Iraq weigh in as the most important considerations for voters when selecting a president. Given that it is unlikely that McCain will overtake Obama on economic issues, there remains only one path to victory - make national security, McCain's strong suit, as the number one consideration for voters this November.

There are two paths to doing this:

1. A terrorist attack occurs in the United States - this can take the form of an attack directly before the election or an attack modeled on Beslan, Russia that would infuriate the US populus. This scenario (arguably) is largely within the control of those who would wish us ill.

2. We bomb Iran this fall, which triggers a massive military escalation. Currently, Israel is pressuring for us to do so, but the implications of this would be grave. China and Russial would begin to flex their economic might against us, which could trigger a economic destabilization in the United States, making a protracted war in three middle eastern nations impossible to sustain.

In either scenario, the interests of national security may be heighted for a brief time just long enough for McCain to be elected.

As Obama supporters, it is in our interest to keep this in the public, not only because it is in the best interest for our campaign to do so, but because our nation would only further suffer under these scenarios, and the leadership such events may foster.

To contribute or to not contribute to Hillary - That is the question

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 02:10:54 EDT

Reposted as it is emerging now...

As most people know, Hillary Clinton's campaign accumulated debts of over $24 million. Most of it was their own money; however, some of the debt remains to consultants and other local businesses that facilitated their events. Given the bitter nature of the campaign, Obama supporters may yet be hesitant to contribute to help pay off her campaign debt. For this to happen, I believe the following three conditions need to be met - for the good of Obama, the Clintons and the Democratic party:

1. The Clintons must repay the debt to the small business that helped them facilitate thier campaign. Nothing would look worse for democrats than to write off small debts by multi-millionaires (Clintons) at small-businesses' expense. It would be the epitomy of elitistism and would be a lethal arsenal for the republicans to put in commercials. If this is not yet done, it should be done now, even if it momentarily puts the Clintons in greater personal debt.

2. The Clintons must pursuade their former supporters (particularly their wealthy supports) to contribute to the Obama campaign and the DNC. Toward the end of the democratic primary process, elite democratic fatcats were threatening to withhold donations to the DNC if the democratic leadership supported Obama - given the lack of fundraising on the part of the DNC, it is likely they followed through. Given that many of these elite supporters have the funds to contribute to Obama and the DNC, this needs to be arranged. Additionally, since they cannot contribute any more funding to the Clintons (as they are likely maxed out at the $2300 for primary contributions) they should set the example if they want Obama supporters to help with the Clintons' debt. Given the caps to campaign contributions, reciprocity between Clinton and Obama in campaign contributions is the best way to ensure that we raise enough funding on all fronts and that everyone remains happy.

3. Their should be an apology from the Clintons on two specific issues: Playing the race card and for praising McCain at Obama's expense. The first must come from Bill Clinton; the second must come from Hillary. Bill's apology can be indirect and allude to his comments without directly losing face; Hillary's needs to be more directly on task. In doing so, it would also be helpful for Obama to extend an Olive branch, particularly to Bill, by saying something along the line that, "because of Bill Clinton, he helped paved the path toward racial equality that allows me to be here today". Such a political reconciliation would help to heal the democratic base as well as to begin restoring Bill Clinton's reputation - this will help Bill to command his large speaking fees again and recoup their campaign expenses that may not be recovered by the end of August.

Much of this may already be happening behind the scenes, and we would likely not hear about it. However, for the sake of the party and our nation, the democratic party needs to come together, and no matter what Obama supporters may think, that will involve the Clintons - but only on the above terms will everyone benefit and prosper.

Will Obama destroy the Constitution as President?

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 01:28:34 EDT

I hear people complaining about Obama supporting the FISA bill now. If it does eventually pass before Obama is elected, do you believe that President Obama will continue to take away our constitutional rights, or will he work to restore them and reverse FISA.

If you believe that he will restore our rights, the current situation is not too dire. On the other hand, you believe he will further take away civil liberties, you would have to conclude that he is no better than McCain.

In short, either Obama believes in the constitution, or he wants to destroy it.

I believe he will defend it as president.

Then why would he allow this? As a temporary setback (retreat) to regroup to fight in a position of strength.

History is rich with presidents who have abused the rights guaranteed in the Constitution, to later have them restored.

John Adama introduced the Sedition Act to have political prisoners put into Jail. This would be put into place later by Woodrow Wilson during WWI - both men abused its authority. Franklin Roosevelt interred thousands of Japanese, German and Italians during WWII - although the Germans and Italians were profiled as threats to the state, the Japanese were collectively interred. This would be apologized for much later. Yet many scholars would consider these men great presidents.

In the passage of legislation to move forward the conditions of equality, great presidents waited and did not act to do the right thing. Washington had slaves which he only had freed after the death of Martha. At certain points during the Civil War, Lincoln was willing to allow the continuation of Slavery if a truce could be reached to reunite the country. Woodrow Wilson and congress only gave women the right to vote after WWI in 1920, 55 years after slaves were free. Roosevelt would not integrate the military, which would be left to Truman to resolve. Kennedy would not sign the Civil Rights Act when originally proposed - although he would have likely signed it eventually, it took Johnson to make it happen.

In all of these cases, what was the reason great men chose a lesser course of action? The politics of the time.

We are in the politics of such a time - bht when the time is right, I believe that Obama will restore our liberties from a position of strength and courage.

Who does a terrorist attack benefit?

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 01:31:34 EDT

I have heard the commonly held belief that if a terrorist attack were to occur just before the election, this would help McCain and the Republicans.

The case needs to be made in no uncertain terms that if the United States cannot secure our borders from terrorist attacks and they have the capability to attack us at will, then the efforts of our government will have all proven to be ineffective. It would be a total vindication of Obama's claim that we took our eye off the ball against Al Queda in Afghanistan and that our efforts in Iraq have not made us more secure.

This case needs to be made pre-emptively for two reasons: first to discredit this false notion; second, heaven forbid one takes place, that the correct conclusions are drawn, that the Bush doctrine has been a failure, and we need a different approach to solving terrorism.

Roosevelt's FISA moment

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 01:26:39 EDT

Understanding the context in which Obama makes his decision to support the FISA bill, it is important to understand history, and learn from the parallels of the past to gain perspective today.

In 1940, when World War II entered the fronts of Belgium, France and Great Britain, Roosevelt was faced with two conflicting realities: war would inevitably come to the United States, yet most americans strongly supported isolationism. To further complicate matters, this conflict was exacerbated by his re-election to an unprecidented third-term against the isolationist Republican Wendel Wilkie. How did Roosevelt handle this? He went the political route. Publicly, he told the Americans that he would not enter us into war. Behind the scenes, he corresponded with Churchill, both while he was Lord of the Admirality (bypassing Prime Minister Chamberlin) and when Churchill became Prime Minister himself about war preparations and assisting the British in any way possible. Has these correspondences been exposed during his campaign (and they almost were), Roosevelt would have never won a third term, and Wilkie would have been president. Where would we be today?

In the end, Roosevelt kept his word to the public, but he prepared the background game to be ready for a massive mobilization when war came. In the end, although he had lied to the American people, his actions spared us and the world an unimaginable fate, and he always acted in the long-term best interest of our country, as only he knew and understood.

Obama faces a somewhat different set of scenarios today, but both the confilcting interests are present and his election as the first black president is certainly as unprecidented as Roosevelt's third term. Having to weigh the security of the nation while considering the potential cost to the very liberties we cherish is no small consideration. So how does he resolve this? Politics. No doubt, Obama is a politician, and his support is a political move, as it is a shift from his former public stance on this issue.

The question that is really relevant her is: Is Obama taking a loss in this batter to win the war later? Is his judgment now to appease the masses in order to position himself to defend our freedoms in a stronger position? This post does not seek to answer that question. Rather, it offers the reader a chance to apply and consider the possible parallels of history to today's situation. If you believe that Obama is about justice, equality and will ultimately uphold his oath to defend the constitution, one may view this as a momentary setback that can be later rectified. If Obama's motives are in question, then ask youself: how willing will McCain be to defend your constitutional rights?

Where would the world with Wilkie be today?

"Summer of Hope"

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 22:08:17 EDT

I think our efforts would be best served if we formed a special movement for the summer - someone in the previous blog proposed, "The Summer of Hope"

We can get artists, musicians and other talents to really create something bigger than a simple campaign - we need a cultural movement.

Some ideas can include a march on Washington or a large concert somewhere - with all the proceeds to go to the Obama campaign. I know these are late 60's ish, but generate and add some more ideas...

To contribute or not contribute to Hillary - that is the question:

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 02:21:47 EDT

For those who have already read this, I am posting this again to send it to other groups that have not yet seen it.

George Carlin - RIP

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 02:17:25 EDT

To one of the great comedians - he challenged a lot of conventions and exposed much hypocricy. It is too bad he could have not lived another five years to see the direction of this nation under an Obama presidency.

"The Summer of Hope"

Sun, 22 Jun 2008 23:12:52 EDT

Some ideas can include a march on Washington or a large concert somewhere - with all the proceeds to go to the Obama campaign. I know these are late 60's ish, but generate and add some more ideas...

To contribute or not to contribute to Hillary - that is the question.

Sun, 22 Jun 2008 01:56:28 EDT

Inaugural Tickets

Sat, 21 Jun 2008 22:52:58 EDT

If you are interested in attending all of the Inaugural events in Washington DC this January, click on the link below.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&Item=140242106736&Category=4103&_trksid=p3907.m29

To Contribute or not contribute to Hillary - that is the question.

Sat, 21 Jun 2008 14:50:57 EDT

As most people know, Hillary Clinton's campaign left debts of over $24 million. Most of it was their own money, however, some of the debt remains to consultants and other local businesses that facilitated their events. Given the bitter nature of the campaign, Obama supporters may be hesitant to contribute to her campaign debt. For this to happen, I believe the following three conditions need to be met:

1. The Clintons must repay the debt to the small business that helped them facilitate thier campaign. Nothing would look worse for democrats than to write off small debts by multi-millionaires (Clintons) at the businesses' expense. It would be the epitomy of elitistism and would be a lethal arsenal for the republicans to put on TV in ads. If this is not yet done, it should be done now, even if it puts the Clintons in greater personal debt.

2. The Clintons must pursuade their former supporters (particularly their wealthy supports) to contribute to the Obama campaign and the DNC. Toward the end of the democratic primary process, elite democratic fatcats were threatening to withhold donations to the DNC if the democratic leadership supported Obama - given the lack of fundraising on the part of the DNC, it is likely they followed through. Given that many of these elite supporters have the funds to contribute to Obama and the DNC, this needs to be arranged. Additionally, since they cannot contribute any more funding to the Clintons (as they are likely maxed out at the $2300 for primary contributions) they should set the example if they want Obama supporters to help with the Clintons' debt. Given the caps to campaign contributions, reciprocity in campaign contributions is the best way to ensure that we raise funding and that everyone remains happy.

3. Their should be an apology from the Clintons on two specific issues: Playing the race card and for praising McCain at Obama's expense. The first must come from Bill Clinton; the second must come from Hillary. Bill's apology can be indirect and allued to his comments; Hillary's should be more directly on task. In doing so, it would also be helpful for Obama to extend an Olive branch, particularly to Bill, by saying something along the line that, "because of Bill Clinton, he helped paved the path toward racial equality that allows me to be here today". Such a political equivocation would help to heal the democratic base as well as to begin restoring Bill Clinton's reputation - this will help Bill to command his large speaking fees again and recoup their campaign expenses that may not be recovered by the end of August.

Much of this may already be happening behind the scenes, and I have yet to hear the political pundits make such comments. However, for the sake of the party and our nation, the democratic party needs to come together, and no matter what Obama supporters may think, that will involve the Clintons - but only on the above terms.

Seven Score and Four Years ago...

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 22:39:15 EDT

In 1863, when Lincoln was delivering the Gettysburg address, he opened with the famous line, "Four score and seven years ago,".

In 2009, Barack will deliver his inaugural address 144 years after the end of Civil War in 1865. In case you are wondering, 144 years would be seven score and four years ago.

Would it not be a great way to begin his Inaugural Address with those words?

Spread the word!

GOP writing off election

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 22:34:10 EDT

Whereas I will continue to support Obama and contribute and work toward his win, all indications are that this is an election to write off for the GOP.

There are several problems to fix: the economy, Iraq, gas prices, infrustructure, and on and on...

Any president who inherits these issues is going to need at least two terms to fix the problems and will not likely have them resolved in that time.

At the end of the second term, Roosevelt still faced 20% unemployment, and the emergence of Hitler and Hirohito in the world. In spite of reform policies and infrustructural development, much work still needed to be done. At that time, we still had a tool and dye industry, steel production and enough core industry to be able to promote a recovery. That is largely gone today, and the redevelopment of that base will have to be done first before adequate investment into infrustructual development can occur.

Will Obama be able to get this done? Whereas I believe that only Obama may be the only person alive today who can mobilize the population for such an undertaking, it may not be done by the end of his second term. We may need to sustain our rebuilding with a continuous vision for at least 15-20 years.

When Obama enters office, I believe that he is going to have a Churchillian speech to deliver, in which he will say that he has nothing to offer us but blood, toil, tears and sweat - our situation is that bad. However I do believe that, if any politician can get our nation to accept that reality, Obam can.

In the end, I believe that Obama will have a special place in history, just as his fellow senator from Illinois did long ago - it is up to us to get him there.

McBush, McSame, McGoo - what's the difference.

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 00:24:32 EDT

See the footage of John McGoo in his wife's corporate jet.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7o5zipU6r7o&feature=related

Why President Bush is George III

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 23:47:46 EDT

For those that need the quick brush up on history, George the Third was the king of England during the American Revolution. He choked on the word "independent" when speaking to Parliment.

Why do I say President Bush is George III:

We have had three presidents whose first name is George:

1. George Washington
2. George Herbert Walker Bush
3. George Walker (W) Bush

President Bush is George III - how apropo

Why Obama Chose Wisely to Reject Public Financing?

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 23:30:26 EDT

The difference between raising money from donors to a campaign and 527's is that a candidate can only receive $2300 for a general election campaign. On the other hand, 527's can collect millions from any one person. If six oil executives each wanted to donate 100 million dollars to a 527, they can.

Given that the democrats do not have access to the deep pocktes that the republicans have, it makes sense that under this formula, the Democrats have only one 3 of the past 10 elections (4 if you count Gore in 2000).

Obama was right in taking the money from donors and taking on the Republicans - I know he will get the maximum from me by the time the campaign's over!

Obama Tells Black Fathers to Engage Their Kids

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 02:34:13 EDT

From MSNBC:

CHICAGO - Barack Obama celebrated Father's Day by calling on black fathers, who he said are "missing from too many lives and too many homes," to become active in raising their children.

"They have abandoned their responsibilities, acting like boys instead of men. And the foundations of our families are weaker because of it," the Democratic presidential candidate said Sunday at a largely black church in his hometown.

Reminding the congregation of his firsthand experience growing up without a father, Obama said he was lucky to have loving grandparents who helped his mother. He got support, second chances and scholarships that helped him get an education. Obama's father left when he was 2.

"A lot of children don't get those chances. There is no margin for error in their lives," said Obama, an Illinois senator.

"I resolved many years ago that it was my obligation to break the cycle — that if I could be anything in life, I would be a good father to my girls," added Obama, whose daughters, Sasha and Malia, and his wife, Michelle, watched from the audience.

The importance of involved fathers
Obama's appearance at the Apostolic Church of God was his first address to a church since he ended his membership at Trinity United Church of Christ, where he had worshipped for 20 years, following inflammatory remarks there by his former longtime pastor and others.

Obama frequently emphasized the importance of God in his life and ended the speech by asking the congregation to "Pray for me. Pray for Michelle."

Obama often speaks about the importance of parental involvement. In Washington, he sponsored legislation to get more child support money to children by offering a tax credit for fathers who pay support, more efficient collection and penalties for fathers who don't meet their obligations.

The issue adds to his family values credentials and lets voters see him delivering a stern message to black voters.

"We can't simply write these problems off to past injustices," Obama said Sunday. "Those injustices are real. There's a reason our families are in disrepair ... but we can't keep using that as an excuse."

Obama urged black parents to demand the best from themselves and their children.

He compared it to his own presidential campaign and early comments from black voters who said they liked him but didn't think a black man could ever be elected president. He said they were admitting defeat before the competition had even begun.

"That was when I wasn't black enough. Now I'm too black," he said in a joking aside.

He said parents who proudly tell him their child gets great grades, all B's, should encourage them even more.

"All B's? Is that the highest grade?" Obama said. "It's great that you can get a B, but you can get a better grade. It's great that you've got a job, but you can get a better job."

Democrats Eye Lieberman's Criticism of Obama

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 02:30:12 EDT

From the CNN Political Ticker:

WASHINGTON (AP) — Joe Lieberman is fast becoming the Democrats' public enemy No. 1.

The four-term Connecticut senator, who came tantalizingly close to being Al Gore's vice president in 2000, not only has been campaigning for his pal, presumed Republican nominee John McCain, now he's publicly criticizing the Democrats' standard-bearer, Barack Obama. Lieberman has strayed before, most notably switching from Democrat to independent in 2006 to hold onto his Senate seat after a Democratic primary loss.

But the latest betrayal has upset Democrats, who often answer in clipped but polite tones when asked about Lieberman. The reason:The independent still caucuses with the Democrats on most issues except the Iraq war, and he holds their slim political majority in his hands.

"There's a commonly held hope that he's not going to be transformed into an attack dog for Republicans," said Sen. John Kerry, D-Mass., an Obama supporter.

Lieberman has wasted no time in questioning Obama's positions on Iran and Israel, two topics on which Lieberman and McCain agree.

Just one day after Obama clinched his party's nomination, Lieberman joined Republicans on a McCain campaign teleconference call assailing Obama following his foreign policy address to a leading Jewish group.

Lieberman accused Obama of blaming U.S. policies for "essentially sort of strengthening" Iran.

"If Israel is in danger today, it's not because of American foreign policy, which has been strongly supportive of Israel in every way," he said. "It is not because of what we have done in Iraq. It is because Iran is a fanatical terrorist, expansionist state."

Later that day, during a budget vote in the Senate, Obama led Lieberman to a corner of the Senate floor for a pointed private conversation. Without elaborating, Obama told reporters the chat was about politics. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., had a similar private conversation with Lieberman.

For his part, Lieberman said he assured Obama he would avoid personal attacks.

"I said, and we agreed, that any time I get out there mostly I'm going to be talking positively about John McCain — and anytime I would take issue with Barack Obama, it would never be personal because I have the highest regard for him personally," he said.

Still, Democrats were irked. Lieberman seemed to be breaking new ground — shifting gears from simply promoting McCain to taking shots at Obama.

"I'm glad that Barack Obama had a direct conversation with Joe," Sen. Dick Durbin, Obama's fellow Illinois senator, told reporters. "I hope that Joe will realize that even though he's a friend of John McCain's and feels differently on the war, there are so many other issues Barack stands for that have been a part of Joe's career."

Lieberman's Connecticut colleague, Democratic Sen. Chris Dodd, said he's heard McCain talk about keeping a civil tone to the campaign.

"It might be a good message for him to convey to his supporters," said Dodd, also an Obama supporter.

Obama had backed Lieberman in the 2006 Democratic Senate primary in Connecticut. After he lost to Ned Lamont, an anti-war candidate, Lieberman defied party leaders and ran as an independent in the general election. Leading Democrats — Obama, Dodd and Kerry among them — then backed Lamont. Lieberman was re-elected with support from the GOP, including praise from the White House and fundraising help from prominent Republicans.

Oddly, Lieberman befriended and dispensed advice to Obama when the Illinois senator arrived in Washington in 2005.

"We have established a very good relationship," Lieberman says. "I have a lot of affection for him."

Call it Lieberman's version of tough love.

The Connecticut lawmaker is willing to speak at the Republican convention this summer if McCain asks. He also has been mentioned as a potential McCain running mate.

Democrats have reason to tolerate Lieberman's actions. If he were to caucus with the GOP, the balance of power in the narrowly divided Senate would slip away, especially with Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, D-Mass., battling brain cancer. Democrats need Lieberman to maintain their 51-49 Senate majority.

Beyond Iraq, Lieberman tends to vote with Democrats on major issues.

"Joe and I have known each other 40 years," said Dodd. "On almost every issue, Joe is a mainstream Democrat."

There is speculation that if Democrats bolster their Senate majority this fall, they could seek payback by stripping Lieberman of his Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee
chairmanship.

While there's no serious talk afoot about punishing Lieberman, Kerry said, "I can't tell you what happens next year."

The Calm Before The Storm

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 02:24:19 EDT

In reading some of the posts earlier today, some were commenting that the number of people blogging has decreased significantly. I believe this is not due to a lack of interest; rather, it is because of a transistion into the general election campaign. No longer do we have the imminent state-by-state primaries being held. Even Obama has been less busy in the public eye on the campaign trail.

Now, Obama is taking care of the foundation work - organizing the DNC, training the field leadership, and constructing the 50 state strategy to work toward victory this fall.

To the casual observer, this is the calm before the storm. Behind the scenes, the foundation is being built for the landslide election this fall. Rest now, but be ready to work soon.

Dreams From My Father - the one I never knew.

Sun, 15 Jun 2008 03:58:06 EDT

When I read Dreams From My Father by Obama, I was glad that at the end of his journey in Kenya, he was able to come to terms with the life his father led and with the heritage of his family. In spite of not knowing his father well, he was able to gain perspective and grounding from his extended family a continent away.

For so many children today, they grow up without fathers - the holiday that so many celebrate today passes by for them like any other day. Promos on TV that acknowledge the holiday only serve as a reminder of the void that exists in their lives, and for the meaning of that void. For children, the problems often lead to economic hardships, but these concerns often pale in comparison to the lessons never learned and, worst of all, the realization of ultimate rejection.

To whom this applies: be thankful for the father you have, and take a moment to think about those who do not have a father.

To whom who look at the world through the eyes of Barack or myself, continually strive to come to terms with life and fill it with hope and love for everything that you do.

Women - and the politics of pandering.

Sat, 14 Jun 2008 14:36:33 EDT

McCain as of late has offered a lot of rhetoric to praise and defend Senator Clinton. He has been accused the media by accusing them of bias in their reporting and is now declining to attend a fundraiser with a texas oilman who joked about rape. To the political novice or the casual observer (of which there are many), McCain may be effective in pursuading former Clinton supporters. However, upon closer inspection of his record, his actions when it really counts, it stands in stark contrast.

I will premise my following comments with the fact that men and women are not equal - that is to say, we are not the same. If we were, there would not be laws needed that specifically apply to women for particular issues. What should be recognized and clarified is that men and women needed to be treate equally, and that their needs should be respected under the law. This is an important distinction for one important reason - McCain opposed making Dr. King's Birthday a national holiday. If someone like McCain cannot recognize the importance of obtaining the recognition of equality for different races (for whom equality with all people exists), why should he comprehend the equality for the treatment of women?

Raised in a military culture, both in his family life and as a veteran, the separation and roles of men and women reflected anything but equality of the sexes. He sought the company of prostitutes while commissioned and cheated on his first wife with his current wife. As such, Cindy McCain was smart enough to recognize one thing - get a prenup before marrying McCain. This is important for two reasons: first, she knew that if he cheated once, he could cheat again; secondly, if John McCain's own wife cannot him with 100 million of her money, why should we entrust him with 15 Trillion dollars of tax revenue to be spent over the course of a four-year term as president.

McCain has argued that he will be a fiscally responsible president - by refusing to require health insurance to pay for contraceptives or not funding or legalizing abortion - even for incest and rape. Will he also make the case that by voting against equal pay for women (which he did) that this is an exercise in fiscal responsibility.

If anything demonstrated the lack of regard McCain has for women, it was when a supporter asked him (referring to Hillary Clinton), "How are you going to beat the bitch?" He turned away, laughed a bit, and replied, "That is an excellent question"

It has been said that people are entitled to their opinion, but not the facts. With Senator McCain, the 'facts' in both how he has voted and how he has lived his life clearly define his 'opinion' about the equality in treatment (or lack thereof) for women. Women should not trust that McCain will look out for their rights - if they are not convinced, they should ask Cindy her willingness to give up her prenup.

Tim Russert - Rest In Peace

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 22:40:26 EDT

The death of Tim Russert could not have come at a worse time - both for journalism and the current political season. Russert was the quinessential reporter and host - both tough and fair, direct and personable, big-picture and detail-oriented - he possessed the traits of greatness, and for those who watched him, we will have a void that will not soon be filled.

His last great moment was one that I saw live. When asked about the results of the democratic primary on May 5 in North Carolina and Indiana, he concluded that Obama would be the democratic nominee, and that no one would question it. At that point, he served as the kingmaker, and could recognize and clearly express what was to become obvious to everyone. His particular gift to cut through the obfuscation and political spin was golden; his abliltiy to simultaneously listen, analyze and draw upon his exaustive knowledge made Russert one of a kind in the journalistic world.

Nobody ever knew if Russert was a Democrat or a Republican, or his personal views on different topics. His purpose in this was not simply objective reporting, but a pursuit for the truth. This is why he will be missed so much - as we in the Obama campaign pursue solutions to Amerian and Global problems, we work through the democratic party, but our mission to work toward tuth, justice, and equality knows no party boundaries. This is the mission that defines our work today, and I would like to believe that Russert, before he passed, recognized that the spirit for these goals were embodied in our campaign and that the United States would right itself in the world again.

Russert was a friend of the truth, and he will be sadly missed.

Expanding Barack's Base

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 02:20:24 EST

My name is Jeff Burke and I work in California as a teacher of teachers for students who are in Alternative Education and Incarcerated. I enjoy my job immensely, as I have the opportunity to reach out to those who are the greatest casualities of No Child Left Behind. To this end, the teachers I work with are their last chance.

As a student of creative studies, I believe that with a healthy exchange of ideas, great things can develop.

I am wondering in what ways can we work to reach the older people in Pennsylvania. Some ideas include:

1. Coffee after church

2. Opening store front to serve free coffee and donuts to local residents and exchange information about Obama and share stories about their struggles and hopes.

3. Look for forums in which Seniors organize in Pennsylvania to reach the maximum number of seniors.

4. Sponsor raffles for prizes to potential supporters with free tickets - good way to get phone numbers and get positive rapport going - prizes could be donated by supporters.

Whereas I am not sure these ideas will work (or if they are even legal) there are some principles behind creative problem solving worth sharing:

- Positive energy

- defer judgment

- stretch for zany ideas - sometimes they evolve to be the best ones.

- look for different perspectives

These principals of creative problem solving are research based and very effective in solving the most challenging of problems.

See what you can think of, and let's see what emerges from the discussion. We owe it to Obama to give the best of our creative resources to propel him to the White House to inspire the best of us all.