Organizing for America | Obama HQ Blogger: Open Thread

Brilliant | Report to Admin

By Suzanne in Jupiter, FL Nov 24th 2008 at 1:52 pm EST (Updated Nov 24th 2008 at 1:52 pm EST)

I believe Barack Obama is bringing the best people to do the toughest job in decades....fixing the economy! Bringing in experience along with new fresh faces...

I am proud to have Barack Obama as our President Elect...soon to be President Obama..

Re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By KFSB Nov 24th 2008 at 2:16 pm EST (Updated Nov 24th 2008 at 2:16 pm EST)

Congrats on 1st!

I'm happy so far with Obama's picks as well as the no-nonesense, capable way he is running his transition team.

Re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By Lace; Yes We Did Nov 25th 2008 at 3:05 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 3:05 am EST)

Congrats Suzanne :)

--and Mary, if you're out there lol, weren't we just talking about JL?:P

Re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By Cris from Saint Louis, MO Nov 25th 2008 at 3:16 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 3:16 am EST)

Hey everyone. Just wanted to share my newest effort - it's a site that compiles all the high quality Obama wallpapers in one place. I'll be adding new wallpapers each day.

Link

Re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By Victoria Nov 25th 2008 at 6:28 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 6:28 am EST)

Very nice. Excellent job, Cris.

Happy Links | Report to Admin

By Celtic Nov 25th 2008 at 8:07 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:07 am EST)

VIDEO- Barack Obama Elementary Link

PhotObama: Bethune-Cookman Marching Band Forms Image Of Obama Link

Mexican Nobel Laureate to lead Obama transition effort on climate Link

Obama Polls Well For Transition So Far Link

VIDEO- Chuck Todd Says Obama Owns The Economy As Of Today Link

Ted Kaufman to fill Biden seat Link

Please help The Political Carnival keep you informed Link

VIDEO: President-elect Obama intros his economic team, holds press conference: Liveblog Link
VIDEO- Mark Halperin on biggest media failure in the past 7 years - “It was extreme bias, extreme pro-Obama coverage.” Link
PhotObama: Haircut and smiles edition Link
Obama Favors Scowcroft Republicans Link
Republicans Botch Absentee Ballot Operation in Georgia Link
McCain and Obama Camps Coordinated Staff Rosters for Next Government Link
VIDEO: David Axelrod won't be another Karl Rove Link
VIDEO- Joe Lieberman Refuses To Apologize For Campaigning Against Obama Link
Obama's Best and Brightest Link
TBPNTOTV!!! Obama cabinet edition Link
VIDEO- SNL- Rahm Emannuel Web Exclusive Link
Mayor Sorry After Showing Fake Obama Bill Link
VIDEO- An FDR-like jobs program for Obama? Link
ChicagObama keeps his Hyde Park home Link
Secret service steps up inauguration security Link
VIDEO- Dick Morris Blames Bush Recession on Obama Link
Obama announces key communications appointments Link
Bush making things harder for Obama Link
Obama Books Dominate Political Best Seller List Link
You know it's a slow news day when... Link
Opa-locka hopes to claim first Obama Avenue in U.S. Link
VIDEO- Your Weekly Address from the President-elect Link
VIDEO: Dear Lorne Michaels, Here's your FauxBama Link
The importance of voter registration Link
VIDEO- Obama Makes Pitch for 2016 Chicago Olympics Link
Students Rename School for Obama Link
SNL Looking for a new Obama Link
VIDEObama: GQ Man of the Year Link
Obama On The Cover Of Ebony Link

Re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By What President You Know Does Everything You Like 100% Of The Time? Nov 25th 2008 at 9:07 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:07 am EST)

:)

Re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By Soma Nov 25th 2008 at 1:38 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:38 pm EST)

Very nice.

Re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By marytnurse, supporting Barack Obama until I see his library built on donations from We The People Nov 25th 2008 at 7:57 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 7:57 am EST)

only cuz he was adding nutmeg to his eggnog and colbert didn't have any....hee hee. (catch the colbert "christmas special" it was funny!)

Re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By Suzanne in Jupiter, FL Nov 25th 2008 at 8:05 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:05 am EST)

Thanks Lace! Never been first. It was a complete accident...However, I made my comment, but no one else was there...It was kind of funny. Everyone else was on another thread, and then this thread disappeared until hours later. Anyway, it was still "cool" being first!

Re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By Suzanne in Jupiter, FL Nov 25th 2008 at 8:03 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:03 am EST)

Thanks!

Re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By Craig from Houston, TX Nov 25th 2008 at 8:47 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:47 am EST)

Yes we consumers need a stimulus package greater than banks because we are the ones generating 75% the worlds properity.The evil banks just want to control the world.No bank can get wealth if we don't spend or want to spend.

Re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By Catherine of Riverdale, IL Nov 25th 2008 at 6:51 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 6:51 am EST)

I do to too Suzanne. I also am so happy that despite what Bush is doing Obama has stepped up and is keeping us from going into immediate and absolute decline. Originally he said there can only be one president at a time...but if the present president has stopped doing what is needed to help the people, I guess that does not apply. I am so happy he is our new president. His choices for his economic team were brilliant ,indeed.

TUESDAY BLOG | Report to Admin

By Stephen C. Rose in NYC Nov 25th 2008 at 8:17 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:17 am EST)

T U E S D A Y

Why Just Jolting The Economy Won't Work + Malcolm X Blazed a Path for Barack Obama
Link

UPDATES ALL DAY: Sustainability discussion + Who bails out the destitute?

YESTERDAY

Will Arnold Schwartzenegger Be Barack's Green Giant?
Link

To receive this daily one-page "magazine" the next morning in your inbox, with all updates, go here Link and subscribe.

Huffington Post Page -- Link

My Kiva Lender Page: Link

Kiva in my view beats conventional charity by a mile. It puts others first. It is helpfulness minus any humiliation to anyone. And minus padding and cheating. Please consider giving to those I have started off.

Re: TUESDAY BLOG | Report to Admin

By marytnurse, supporting Barack Obama until I see his library built on donations from We The People Nov 25th 2008 at 9:39 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:39 am EST)

i sure hope that arnie ends up in the administration...that would mean an election in california...and you know what that would mean!!!

Great Team- Housing Mortages - the end to Supply Side Vodoo Econ | Report to Admin

By Doug from Fort Lauderdale, FL Nov 25th 2008 at 3:05 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 3:05 pm EST)

To promote the housing market and the economy:

- Allow current homeowners to refinance mortgages to lower fixed rates by eliminating bank origination fees etc, local, state and federal taxes and fees for a period of 24 months.
- Provide homebuyers with the same benefits of the above.
- Allow current homeowners to reduce their mortgages to the current value of their homes. If the home goes up in value in the future then the gain would be repaid to the US Government for the difference in original value vs. new value. This gain would apply to new buyers of the same property. This eliminates speculation and predatory buyers in the housing market and provides for fair market pricing.

re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By Tim from Hoboken, NJ Nov 25th 2008 at 8:03 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:03 pm EST)

I agree with most of the Cabinet picks and can even accept Clinton at State, but I am not at all comfortable with the Gates retention. I think the President-Elect needs to set a firm deadline for Gates' departure and stick to his promise to withdraw from Iraq as scheduled.

re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By Carolyn Carrier Nov 26th 2008 at 5:06 pm EST (Updated Nov 26th 2008 at 5:06 pm EST)

He will.

re: Brilliant | Report to Admin

By scott5js Nov 26th 2008 at 11:30 pm EST (Updated Nov 26th 2008 at 11:30 pm EST)

I too am very uneasy with retaining a Secretary of Defense from a Republican administration. This is a position that handles a monstrous budget. I say President Eisenhower's words about the military-industrial complex are as valid today as in 1960; really, more so.
There has been a long-time trend for Democratic Presidents to appoint Republican Secretaries of Defense but Republicans do not reciprocate. Giving Republicans the upper hand.
If there is to be real change, there is a myriad of questions that need to be asked about military expenditures, about unnecessary weapons systems. Military expenditures take money away from other things.

Where's Jimmy Carter !!! | Report to Admin

By Mortamor Nov 26th 2008 at 4:30 am EST (Updated Nov 26th 2008 at 4:30 am EST)

... Architect of the long standing Middle East Peace Accord between Egypt and Israel, Jimmy Carter should have been viewed as the "Premium" candidate for Secretary of State. Hillary pales "Immensely" in comparison to the likes of Carter. So... What gives? Does Barack REALLY want THAT MUCH "change"? If "Peace in the Middle East" were to truly be given over unto the importance that it fully deserves, we'd see Jimmy Carter becoming a major part of it. The "SYMBOL" of the Secretary Of State, being a symbol that reveals unto the world what the "focus of our mission will be", should be thought through VERY CARFULLY. "Peace in the Middle East" is VERY WORTHY endeavor. Any "TRUE" endeavor in that regards MUST INCLUDE Jimmy Carter! -M-

Re: Where's Jimmy Carter !!! | Report to Admin

By scott5js Nov 26th 2008 at 11:50 pm EST (Updated Nov 26th 2008 at 11:50 pm EST)

I bought and read Carter's book and I was impressed. I also listen to Pacifica station KPFT in Houston and I hear countless criticisms of Israel's treatment of Palestinians in occupied territory.
I mentioned the book to an African-American friend who is an elected official. He said he had visited Israel and he felt he was under apartheid there.
It is one thing for our President-elect to promise to defend the existence of Israel, and I agree. Nevertheless I have seen and heard strong indications that our country needs to be even-handed in the Near East. The Arab-Israeli conflict is long-destering sore that must surely require concessions from Israel as well as from other parties.

hiya | Report to Admin

By Snucky Nov 25th 2008 at 3:14 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 3:14 am EST)

i hope everyone is well! connecticut in the house!

Sorry to go waay off topic, but . . . | Report to Admin

By Lace; Yes We Did Nov 25th 2008 at 3:33 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 3:33 am EST)

Sorry to go way off topic, but gooooo Grizzlies!!

Link

We won both the women's and men's national championships in CC :)
Ladies' 6th straight year!

And we've won more titles than ANY Div II school ever (35)! :D

Woot woot! ;-)

Re: Sorry to go waay off topic, but . . . | Report to Admin

By Lace; Yes We Did Nov 25th 2008 at 3:46 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 3:46 am EST)

I have to hit the hay, so good nite, folks :)

The Truth | Report to Admin

By Victoria Nov 25th 2008 at 3:49 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 3:49 am EST)

Link

Just remember, I'm never far away.
And yeah, Michael is okay.

V

Re: Victoria - THANK YOU! | Report to Admin

By Australian Helen Nov 25th 2008 at 4:36 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 4:36 am EST)

I was deeply touched by your story of the little dog. I do things like that. That's how I've ended up with 12 cats.

In times of struggle it is so hard to add another little mouth & its vet bills too, but I truly admire & respect people who will step out of their comfort zone to help the helpless.

May he bring you years of joy & save the dollars you were thinking of sending your son to care for this little fellow.

Re: Victoria - THANK YOU! | Report to Admin

By Victoria Nov 25th 2008 at 4:52 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 4:52 am EST)

Link

from us to you. Sent with our whole hearts. And thank you. Because I believe you are special. You will know the long night that we endure. Grateful to be rescued but missing mum and da.

Much love.

Re: Victoria - THANK YOU! | Report to Admin

By Victoria Nov 25th 2008 at 5:11 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 5:11 am EST)

In case,

Part 2 attached.

Link

us

Yes WE Can! | Report to Admin

By Evan Nov 25th 2008 at 4:45 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 4:45 am EST)

YES WE CAN!

Do you care? | Report to Admin

By All being Nov 25th 2008 at 5:00 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 5:00 am EST)

"Wen Ho Lee Revisited" on You tube.

***** TRIBUTE TO PRESIDENT OBAMA ***** | Report to Admin

By Delores Chamblin Nov 25th 2008 at 5:11 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 5:11 am EST)

~*~ TRIBUTE ~*~ TO ~*~ PRESIDENT ~*~ BARACK ~*~ OBAMA ~*~
Link

~*~ CONGRATULATE ~*~ PRESIDENT ~*~ BARACK ~*~ OBAMA ~*~
Link

Susan Rice | Report to Admin

By rich Nov 25th 2008 at 5:27 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 5:27 am EST)

Link

By Alex Koppelman

Monday, Nov. 24, 2008 18:35 EST

Report: Susan Rice for UN ambassador

ABC News reports that Barack Obama is likely to nominate Susan Rice to serve as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations.

...

Since the end of the Clinton administration, she’s held down a desk at the Brookings Institution, and served as a foreign policy advisor to Howard Dean and Obama during their presidential runs.

...

Re: Susan Rice | Report to Admin

By Nanci A patriotic dissident Nov 25th 2008 at 5:57 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 5:57 am EST)

This is a great appointment. Such a relief after previous US UN ambassadors like John Bolton!

Yay!

Re: Susan Rice | Report to Admin

By Soma Nov 25th 2008 at 1:41 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:41 pm EST)

Agree - excellent appointment.

Re: Susan Rice (pic with husband) | Report to Admin

By rich Nov 25th 2008 at 5:58 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 5:58 am EST)

Link

Comments

dsmyre says:
Our Dr. Rice! You go, girl!

Re: Susan Rice (pic with husband) | Report to Admin

By Nanci A patriotic dissident Nov 25th 2008 at 7:08 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 7:08 am EST)

Very nice photo Rich! Thanks for posting the link.

Re: Susan Rice (pic with husband) | Report to Admin

By Nanci A patriotic dissident Nov 25th 2008 at 7:10 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 7:10 am EST)

Is Maris her daughter?

N

Re: Susan Rice (pic with husband) | Report to Admin

By rich Nov 25th 2008 at 7:30 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 7:30 am EST)

I think Maris is her daughter. Sources online (including Wikipedia only mention that Susan and Ian have two young children but don't provide their names).

America has never seen anything quite like this: The president and president-elect acting like co-presidents, | Report to Admin

By Nov. 5th 2008 "Mission Accomplished," Ben from Monroe, NY HAPPY ELECTION DAY!!!! Nov 25th 2008 at 5:38 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 5:38 am EST)

America has never seen anything quite like this: The president and president-elect acting like co-presidents,

By David Lightman, McClatchy Newspapers – Mon Nov 24, 4:28 pm ET

WASHINGTON — America has never seen anything quite like this: The president and president-elect acting like co-presidents, consulting and cooperating on the day's biggest crises.

"It's pretty unusual," said George Edwards , a presidential expert at Texas A&M University, in College Station .

What Princeton University professor Julian Zelizer calls "the split-screen presidency" is the result of several historic forces converging this fall:

— The 24-7 nature of the global economy, which demands timely reaction.

— Incoming and outgoing presidents who have personal and political reasons to show that they can manage a crisis.

— A president-elect, Barack Obama , who "believes in strong government and wants to get things under way immediately," said William Leuchtenburg , a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill professor who's written extensively about the presidency.

— A lame-duck president, George W. Bush , who's leaving office voluntarily. "Bush was not defeated. That makes for an easier relationship," Leutchtenburg said.

This transition lacks the formality — and the coolness — of the last two transfers of power that occurred during tough economic times, the 1980-81 change from Jimmy Carter to Ronald Reagan and the 1993 end of George H.W. Bush's term as Bill Clinton took office. Both new presidents then had defeated the former ones.

Monday gave a vivid illustration of the comity that's characterized the Bush-Obama minuet.

Bush had a cup of coffee in midmorning with Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson to discuss the government's decision Sunday to help ailing banking giant Citigroup . Later, on the steps of the Treasury building, next door to the White House , Bush assured the nation that Washington was ready to take similar action to help other financial institutions.

His statement took only two minutes, but it included this paean to his successor: "I talked to Obama about the decision we made. I told the American people, and I told the president-elect when I first met him, that anytime we were to make a big decision during this transition, he will be informed, as will his team."

About an hour and a half later, Obama unveiled his economic team at a Chicago news conference and mentioned that he'd spoken to Bush and Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke earlier Monday.

Link

Re: America has never seen anything quite like this: The president and president-elect acting like co-presidents, | Report to Admin

By Livvy Nov 25th 2008 at 6:52 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 6:52 am EST)

I was really wondering how the Japanese and Chinese were going to respond to this.. Good to see the Japanese on board

Although Obama's cabinet appointments include several officials from the Clinton era, Geithner, 47, is widely known to be well versed in things Japanese and is remembered for his sympathetic views of the country.

Although Japanese government leaders and diplomats never speak about this officially, many hoped a Republican administration would remain in office under John McCain because they feel that the Republicans treat Japan with greater respect than theDemocrats. Tokyo endured strained ties with the Democrats over trade rows early in the 1990s through to the Asia financial crisis late in the decade.

Link

It's good they picked up when BO said Geithner will be the official economic spokesperson..Bo sent a very clear message , very much like when Nancy Pelosi said CEO outrageous paydays are over. The Japanese also had their reservations about having to deal with Summers again. Africa will be the same as they are another lot that are skeptical of Democrat leadership. Even though Bill C was popular at home, he was considered arrogant out there.

Re: America has never seen anything quite like this: The president and president-elect acting like co-presidents, | Report to Admin

By Livvy Nov 25th 2008 at 7:06 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 7:06 am EST)

However the Japanese do have to get over their China bashing as well, they did this when our Australian PM went to China during his world trip and Japan complained.. bit petty.

Brighter Future | Report to Admin

By Eva B. Nov 25th 2008 at 6:52 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 6:52 am EST)

Obama is surrounded by competent people who will bring America the place it's lost during last 8 years

come and see more about me here Link

my thoughts | Report to Admin

By _Stacey_ Nov 25th 2008 at 7:00 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 7:00 am EST)

Delaware Gov. Ruth Ann Minner’s (D) decision to appoint Vice President-elect Joe Biden’s longtime aide Ted Kaufman to the Senate has upset local Democrats who believe the move was a ham-handed attempt to engineer the election of Biden’s son, Beau, to the Senate in 2010.

By selecting Kaufman, who has said he would serve only two years before a special election is held in 2010, Minner bypassed other interested Delaware pols and ensured that Beau Biden will have a clearer opportunity to succeed his father in the Senate. ......
'''''''''''''''''''''''''''''' '''''''''''''''''''
The thing that i hope this election will teach us is that if you have a clear vision and the determination you can do anything

Joe Biden said his son wil have to seek the votes to be elected to the senate just like anyone. two yrs are a very long time in politics and anything can happen,. instead of the dems going after each other those interested in the seat should lay their ground work. barack Overcame the Clinton machine, which was well oiled since 2002 to sweep her to the WH. He overcame the repubs who felt the presidency was their right

I think if anyone is tough enough to be senator they should prove it by winning in 2010. tis a non story, lets focus on building our nation instead of giving the repubs something to rejoice about

Re: my thoughts | Report to Admin

By _Stacey_ Nov 25th 2008 at 7:08 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 7:08 am EST)

story was posted on politco.com today....

My hopes for the evolution of this blog | Report to Admin

By Nanci A patriotic dissident Nov 25th 2008 at 7:06 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 7:06 am EST)

Hi all, know most of you are still in bed. I'll post this and I hope some of you will comment once you are up.

I don't want to dictate the direction this blog takes at all, but I'm offering my two cents for how it might evolve. It does seem like we're floundering a bit as we also transition from campaigning mode to governing mode. And that's okay! I find most posts very helpful and interesting and I just ignore the ones that aren't most of the time.

Anyway my hope is that this blog becomes a space where we can debate policies and offer our thoughts on Obama's stance on issues without being slammed for being disloyal. I even think it's appropriate here to comment positively and negatively on Obama's appointments. There is a way to do it that is constructive---e.g. posts that say I gave all this money and Obama is not appointing people I want is NOT constructive!:-)

However what is constructive is saying, hmmm....so and so has this kind of record, I wonder what this will mean for the direction of policy and I wonder how this will work with the rest of the people he's appointed and citing concrete evidence for why it may or may not work.

It is one thing to campaign, it is another to govern and I think the blog is going to have to transition from a campaign blog to a contributing to the work of government blog---which will mean more dissent will be appropriate and necessary although it should always be expressed agreeably.

My view of the blog is that it is grassroots democracy in which every voice is welcome. we're all heavily invested in the campaign and heavily invested in Obama governing given the time and money we've given to it. So we all should have a voice here.

It is one thing to campaign, it is another to govern and I think the blog is going to have to transition from a campaign blog to a contributing to the work of government blog---which will mean more dissent will be appropriate and necessary although it should always be expressed agreeably.

Okay, that's my thoughts for now. :-) Other perspectives welcome!

cheers.

Re: My hopes for the evolution of this blog | Report to Admin

By Suzanne in Jupiter, FL Nov 25th 2008 at 8:03 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:03 am EST)

As a frequent visitor to the blog, I have limited my comments because I find it has become infiltrated with people who do not seem to want to discuss, but instead just repeat their "anti" whatever agenda, over and over and over again...I think that is getting many angry, and reluctant to comment on the blog..

I would love to discuss divergent opinions and ideas, but only if it can be done in a thoughtful and respectful way... And though many are trying to do just that, there seem to be a few that just want to press their agenda..Just what I have observed in the past few weeks..Hopefully, it is a trend that will not take a hold on this blog.

Re: My hopes for the evolution of this blog | Report to Admin

By Ron Nov 26th 2008 at 4:02 am EST (Updated Nov 26th 2008 at 4:02 am EST)

Suzanne from Jupiter, in case u haven't noticed, this is a Barack fan site. Here, we're all about peace, love, adoration and Change We Can Believe In, not making odious attacks against The One.

Those who criticize Barack on this Barack fan blog, whether serious or doing so simply for their own amusement, or both, are not particularly liked or welcome here.

Though Canadian, I'm a Barack fan also, as are hundreds of thousands of my countrymen and countrywomen. Right now, I believe he IS The One. McCain surely is (was) not, and a majority of American voters agreed with that viewpoint on Nov. 4.

I hope Barack does well as prez. If he doesn't, I may prove to be a fickle fan, come over to the dark side, and become a Sarah 2012 or Sarah 2016 fan. lol

Meanwhile, until Barack actually takes office, I suspend all judgment and discount all critics. (Sometimes it's tough to believe he isn't already the real prez, even back in the summer, when Bush was implementing BO's policy points without crediting him heheh. Unless, of course, he does something immoral, illegal or just plain stupid between now and Jan. 20/09. Don't think that will happen, though. The man is too intelligent, careful & unflappable.

Re: My hopes for the evolution of this blog | Report to Admin

By NY Woman for Obama Nov 25th 2008 at 8:20 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:20 am EST)

I've been married for over 27 years and after dinner we normally have a healthy "dissent" (smile). So I agree with you on that point.

Obama's pulled together a brilliant cabinet, placed them in the current administration and they've started to "advise" already. Amazing.

Our job, until December 2nd, is to get Jim Martin elected to the Senate.

Obama has done FOUR things to ask for our support -

1. "I want to urge you to turn out one more time and help elect Jim Martin to the United States Senate." Link

2. He's running a commercial in Georgia for Martin as well as a "robo-call" - Obama-style - all positive:
Link

3. Obama put a Jim Martin Phone Bank right here on our site:
Link

4. The BEST of the Obama Campaign are down in Georgia right now. I got a call Thursday night from my old Field Coordinators from Ohio - they're looking for volunteers to come down and help GOTV in Atlanta and/or develop phone banking teams out of state.

Obama's committed to Martin's Campaign -

Let's do'em proud

Re: My hopes for the evolution of this blog | Report to Admin

By Nanci A patriotic dissident Nov 25th 2008 at 10:10 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:10 am EST)

Thanks to both of you. I had to leave the blog to do some stuff, so am just now getting back to your comments.

I agree with both of you. I guess, Meredith, as you say, there is still campaigning to do in GA! :-)

And yes I would love nice discussions that were respectful. I miss some of the in-depth conversations about issues some of us would have on this blog.

I do hope we'll be able to get back to that and do more of it.

I love this blog and love hearing from different people their ideas and perspective. Plus I count on you all to give me links to articles I wouldn't read otherwise here! :-)

Thanks for engaging with me on this.

Thanks and Jim Martin for US Senator | Report to Admin

By Ann (who has always been known as Ann on this website) Nov 25th 2008 at 7:31 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 7:31 am EST)

Dear Obama Family,

As we approach the season of thanks, I'd like to pause to thank each one of you for brightening my life. Through you, a whole new world has opened up for me... the opportunity to read diverse opinions and thoughts. It has been a true blessing.

As we continue to work to get Jim Martin elected as US Senator - Georgia, please join me in participating in an event on Monday, December 1, 2008.

See link below:

Link

It won't cost you anything (and, it’s not phonebanking)… just a few minutes of your time. Thanks and Happy Thanksgiving!

Link

Change | Report to Admin

By Strong Heart Nov 25th 2008 at 8:01 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:01 am EST)

Heaven...

Link

Border Agents Ramos and Compean | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-'O'-wing Nov 25th 2008 at 8:03 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:03 am EST)

What do you guys think about the convictions of Border Patrol Agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean?

Perhaps they did not act wisely in attempting to evade responsibility of shooting at the fleeing man on the border, but they have paid dearly, having served 3 to 4 years in prison already.

It isn't any longer as much the original act committed, but because of the fact that the whole trial and facts presented by Bush crony U.S. Attorney Johnny Sutton were badly tainted.
Ramos and Compean currently are in solitary confinement in maximum-security prisons.

What do you think of getting a petition together signed by folks from here on Obama's web page to get Pres. Bush to sign a pardon for them before he leaves office?

Re: Border Agents Ramos and Compean | Report to Admin

By Suzanne in Jupiter, FL Nov 25th 2008 at 8:11 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:11 am EST)

Sorry to say I am not familiar with this case. Do you have a link that explains it in more detail? Would love to know more.

Re: Border Agents Ramos and Compean | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-'O'-wing Nov 25th 2008 at 8:15 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:15 am EST)

P.S. Border Patrol Agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean….
William Gheen, a spokesman for Americans for Legal Immigration PAC, said, "We're not going to rest until Ramos and Compean have justice."
Fitton said the government is battling against releasing the documents requested.
Judicial Watch earlier filed Freedom of Information Act requests with the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Justice and the State Department seeking records of communications and actions "by U.S. government personnel with Mexican officials concerning the prosecutions of Ramos and Compean."
Fitton, however, said those requests to date haven't caused the government to provide the information sought.
The 2007 requests were followed by their own lawsuit demanding the information, again without results.
Fitton said that, "the more the American people know about what happened, the better."
"There is a process under which anyone can apply for a pardon or a commutation… if they want to take advantage of that process, they're absolutely welcome to," said White House spokeswoman Dana Perino, responding to a question from Les Kinsolving, WND's correspondent at the White House.
"Now that Mr. Aldrete-Davila, the drug smuggler in the Ramos-Compean case, has admitted running drugs and conspiracy, will the president review his decision against a pardon, commutation or other clemency for the two Border Patrol agents jailed for shooting at this drug smuggler as he fled back into Mexico after abandoning a load of drugs in the United States?" Kinsolving asked.
Perino said she would "encourage anyone to look at the facts in the case as laid out by the attorney general – by the county – district attorney – I'm sorry, the U.S. attorney in that area."

Sutton has been described by Bush as a "dear friend."

Mr. Aldrete-Davila, the drug smuggler, has admitted possession of a controlled substance, conspiracy to import a controlled substance and conspiracy to distribute.
The marijuana he admitted smuggling into the U.S. came after he testified against Ramos and Compean under a grant of immunity from Sutton.
Mychal Massie, the chief of the nonprofit and nonpartisan Project 21 has called on President Bush to pardon the agents.
"It is time to prove that he [Bush] places the welfare of American communities and those men and women who risk their lives to protect them over the welfare of lying illicit drug smugglers," Massie said
"Pardon Ramos and Compean now, Mr. President!"
Link

Re: Border Agents Ramos and Compean | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-'O'-wing Nov 25th 2008 at 8:22 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:22 am EST)

P.S.S.
Bush's pardon list shows no high-profile convicts
Nov 25, 2008
WASHINGTON — President George W. Bush's latest list of pardons does not include some high-profile criminals who still hope the president will grant them clemency in his final weeks in office.

On Monday, Bush granted pardons to 14 individuals and commuted the prison sentences of two others whose misdeeds included dealing drugs, evading taxes, killing bald eagles or mishandling hazardous waste.

The most recent batch, however, did not include any well-known convicts like junk bond dealer Michael Milken, who is seeking a pardon on securities fraud charges, or two politicians convicted of public corruption — former Rep. Randy "Duke" Cunningham, R-Calif., and four-term Democratic Louisiana Gov. Edwin W. Edwards — who want Bush to shorten their prison terms.

Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, R-Calif., noted that the list also did not include former Border Patrol Agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean, who were convicted of shooting a drug smuggler and trying to cover it up. Ramos and Compean are each serving sentences of more than 10 years for shooting Osvaldo Aldrete Davila in the buttocks while he was fleeing from an abandoned marijuana load in 2005.

"President Bush still has time to do the right thing and commute wrongly imprisoned Border Agents Ramos and Compean," Rohrabacher said. "The fact that the president has neglected to free these men from their imprisonment while freeing drug dealers, embezzlers and other criminals is insulting to the American people who have been begging and pleading for the president to release the agents."
Link

Re: Border Agents Ramos and Compean | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-'O'-wing Nov 25th 2008 at 8:40 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:40 am EST)

P.S.s.s......
Recently posted addresses for the agents:

Ignacio Ramos #58079-180
FCI Phoenix
Federal Correctional Institution
37910 N. 45th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85086

Jose Compean #58080180
FCI Elkton
PO Box 10
Lisbon, OH 44432

"I have come to believe that President Bush doesn’t give a fig what we want or think, much less does he care about these two men and their families.
There is something very political and smelly about this mess."
Posted August 24, 2008 by JustaDumbBlonde
"When the government fears the people there is liberty ... " Thomas Jefferson

Re: Border Agents Ramos and Compean | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-'O'-wing Nov 25th 2008 at 8:57 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:57 am EST)

P.S.S.s.s.s.s......
Would some of you send Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukah, or Other cards to the two imprisoned men using the ABOVE posted addresses?
Mat 25:36
'I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in PRISON and YOU CAME to Me.'

Re: Border Agents Ramos and Compean | Report to Admin

By Rock on Mr. President!! Nov 25th 2008 at 2:10 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:10 pm EST)

AZ Grammy I would sign the petition...

Don't know how to get one going though

Re: Border Agents Ramos and Compean | Report to Admin

By kansasgal Nov 25th 2008 at 2:19 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:19 pm EST)

I think this is a great idea, and I signed the petition. Thank you for sharing this, despite what Ms. Intolerant Connie thinks.

I have already seen several posts questioning potenital Bush pardons - nobody had a problem as long as the post put Bush in a negative light. Now all of a sudden we should refrain from this type of inappropriate post? Puh-lease.

Pardoning Ramos and Compean, and sending them supportive holiday cards is a kind and compassionate idea. Thank you for posting.

Re: Border Agents Ramos and Compean | Report to Admin

By Connie Obama (Not held hostage by polls or media) Nov 25th 2008 at 11:05 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:05 am EST)

Sinc this is Obama's blog I don't think it can be used as a political tool to start petitions in support of other causes. If PEO would request this as he's done with other efforts, i.e. Red Cross, Gustaf, et al, then it would be ok.

I don't think we can take over or use this blog to petition for our individual causes. Contact HQ and see where they stand on this, IMO.

Re: Border Agents Ramos and Compean | Report to Admin

By shaka Nov 25th 2008 at 4:07 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 4:07 pm EST)

I'd sign, I think they both deserve a pardon, should never have been jailed in the first place.

Another outstanding selection | Report to Admin

By Theresa in Maine Nov 25th 2008 at 8:04 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:04 am EST)

For the Obama White House, a Social-Secretary-in-Waiting
“Wonderful picnics outside, tree decorating, inviting military families over,” Desirée Rogers, the White House social-secretary-in-waiting, said Monday in a telephone interview. “One of the things that is particularly important for this administration is that we continue along this vein of making it everyone’s America. We are inviting all of America and all of the world to share in that splendor.”

the first African-American woman to hold the position.

a Harvard M.B.A and a major fund-raiser for Mr. Obama

A Wellesley graduate and New Orleans native
Link

Desirée is beautiful, talented, extremely well educated and another outstanding selection for our next White House.

Re: Another outstanding selection | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Nov 25th 2008 at 8:18 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:18 am EST)

For some reason,I am NOT really liking this woman. I just do not know what it is about ,but I hope I am wrong, I just cannot put my finger on it,but I do NOT like something I am seeing wit this position. I don't know what it is. Just my Opinion.

Re: Another outstanding selection | Report to Admin

By Marbwi Nov 25th 2008 at 8:37 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:37 am EST)

Think 'party or wedding planner'. Of course, nowhere near the crazy character in the movie 'Father of the Bride'...more like JLo's..

With all of the serious issues Barack Obama will be facing, I hope they find time to have some fun.

I hope there are plenty of children events at the White for the girls. Another novel idea would be sport events. A great way to break the ice, is to have congressperson vs congressperson(staff vs staff) events. examples: bowl-offs, basketball, tennis, etc.

Re: Another outstanding selection | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Nov 25th 2008 at 8:40 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:40 am EST)

Funny you should mention JLO.

INTO {{{O}}RBIT | Report to Admin

By THUNDERBOLT */*V** Nov 25th 2008 at 8:05 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:05 am EST)

Goodmorning Everyone:

After last night's announcement of the economic advisors, my heart leapt for joy and wove its tale of the scent, music and poetry of the USS {O} Enterprise.

From youtube.com:

ISAAC HAYES -- THEME FROM SHAFT

JAMES MORRISSON -- YOU GIVE ME SOMETHING, NOTHING
EVER HURT LIKE YOU

MARVIN GAYE -- SAFE THE CHILDREN-GOD IS LOVE-MERCY
MERCY ME

CURTIS MAYFIELD -- WE GOT TO HAVE PEACE, PEOPLE
GET READY

GEORGE MICHAEL -- PRAYER FOR TIME

ARETHA FRANKLIN -- STAND UP FOR YOURSELF

DONNA SUMMER - THE POWER OF ONE (HQ) PE BARACK
OBAMA 2008

QUEEN -- WE WILL ROCK YOU/WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS

BROOKLYN FUNK ESSENTIAL, -- THE CREATOR HAS A
PHAROAH SANDERS MASTERPLAN

MOLLY JOHNSON -- RAIN, MELODY, SWEET SUBLIME

JAZZANOVA -- BEHOLD THESE DAYS

Enjoy!

As an afterthought, may we welcome on board Sen Chuck Hagel, Dr. Samantha Powers & Mr. Fahreed Zakaria too!

*P)ositive*E)nergy*A)lways*C)r eates*E)levation*

Re: INTO {{{O}}RBIT | Report to Admin

By Strong Heart Nov 25th 2008 at 8:53 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:53 am EST)

Link

Re: INTO {{{O}}RBIT | Report to Admin

By Tamsin Nov 25th 2008 at 9:32 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:32 am EST)

Nice Strongheart. Ella's my girl!

Re: INTO {{{O}}RBIT | Report to Admin

By Tracy in CT Nov 25th 2008 at 9:58 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:58 am EST)

Hey Tam!!! I love the picture you submitted for Dan's video.

Hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

I know I am thankful that we will have competence back in the White house!!!

Re: INTO {{{O}}RBIT | Report to Admin

By IA for Obama ☮ Nov 25th 2008 at 10:09 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:09 am EST)

Yea, Tamsin! I have been missing you on the blog something fierce!

Re: INTO {{{O}}RBIT | Report to Admin

By Tamsin Nov 25th 2008 at 10:49 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:49 am EST)

Hi Tracy and Maeve, we have had a busy couple of weeks here. As parents you will appreciate this. I came home from a work trip on Sunday late, Monday my dog had day surgery to repair a puncture in his palette--mishap with a stick thrown by a 13 year old--who needed stitches on Tuesday because of an unrelated mishap. And then Wednesday my youngest woke up itchy--yes "chicken pops"--just a week before he was scheduled for his second vaccination. Oh, and my husband was away on a work trip.

Nice to be back just in time for the mad dash to get the house ready and shop and cook for Thanksgiving!

I have missed you all very much.

Re: INTO {{{O}}RBIT | Report to Admin

By IA for Obama ☮ Nov 25th 2008 at 11:21 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:21 am EST)

YIKES! Well, if anyone handled it with grace and compassion, you sure did.

So much for that hard-earned vacation after our win, huh?!

Hope everyone is recovering well, yourself included!

positive future . | Report to Admin

By RJ show me state Nov 25th 2008 at 8:15 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:15 am EST)

Yes We Can Just checking in Sir. will look forward to knowing america and the world. has been following your wisdom and change. we're all in this together. happy thanksgiving to President obama and his beautiful family. I now find many reasons to be thankful and so blessed to be alive to see the day. humans can see each other as a world family. instead of fearful of each other

Re: positive future . | Report to Admin

By Susannah Nov 25th 2008 at 8:59 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:59 am EST)

I saw something this morning in the comments on an Huffington Post article that made me laugh.
In a comment, someone was critical of the fact that from the donations given to the Obama campaign that it is hard to figure out who owns him. All anyone would have to do to know about the giving would be to read all the blogs during the campaign and they would know whose money helped Barack be elected. But, no one owns anyone really, we just worked and gave and
trusted and won. I am not sure why people can't understand that simple fact.

The O symbol | Report to Admin

By Chi-Ike I voted early Nov 25th 2008 at 8:49 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:49 am EST)

The O symbol should lend itself to the world, much like the Statue of Liberty does. It is not the man Obama that inspires America and the world, but the ideas of the man.

Going forward the O symbol should come to represent:-

1. Rebirth of America and the world.
2. New world leadership and a forging of consensus.
3. Repudiation of the Bush doctrine.

So going forward, when a people in some remote part of the world march in hope of freedom they will carry banners with the O symbol, much like the adapted the singing of We shall over come.

Re: The O symbol | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-'O'-wing Nov 25th 2008 at 9:18 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:18 am EST)

My Two Cents...
I'd like the 'O' to represent...

1. Young-'n-old United with Inspiration
2. Encompassing America and beyond with Hope
3. Security within our borders, safety in unity.

YES!!!

Re: The O symbol | Report to Admin

By kansasgal Nov 25th 2008 at 5:26 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 5:26 pm EST)

And you guys wonder why we keep fighting against all this change and hope. It's things like this that make us go hmmmmmmmmmm......

The NEW World Order, people marching with the O-Banner. This doesn't sound creepy to you? That is the most arrogant thing I have ever read - "it's the ideas of the man." I swear, you guys have GOT to get off the koolaid because you are really starting to scare me.

Obama to give more details of budget plan today | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Nov 25th 2008 at 8:54 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:54 am EST)

By JIM KUHNHENN, Associated Press Writer Jim Kuhnhenn, Associated Press Writer – 1 hr 13 mins ago

Obama calls for quick action on economy

WASHINGTON – President-elect Barack Obama wants to project fiscal restraint even as his economic team assembles a massive recovery package that could cost several hundred billion dollars. A day after introducing the captains of his economic team and promoting a giant jobs plan, Obama on Tuesday is to lay out his budget belt-tightening vision. The dual images — big spender and disciplined budget watcher — were designed to give both political and economic assurances to the public, the Congress and the financial markets.

Obama also is expected to introduce Peter Orszag as his new director of the Office of Management and Budget, the White House office that serves as a funnel for federal agency budget requests. Orszag is the current director of the Congressional Budget Office.

Obama's economic team embodies what at first glance seem to be mutually exclusive goals. Timothy Geithner, Obama's choice for treasury secretary; Lawrence Summers, who will head the National Economic Council; and Orszag all have links to Robert Rubin, who as President Clinton's treasury secretary pushed for a balanced budget.

But all three will also be part of an administration that will drive deficits to new heights with an economic plan designed to save or create 2.5 million jobs and redirect the economy over the next two years. Economists from across the political spectrum, including some who have served as informal advisers to Obama, have put the size of an economic recovery package as high as $700 billion over two years.

Obama summed up the challenge Monday.

Link

GOOD NEWS FROM FLORIDA | Report to Admin

By "CZARINA" MARILYN from CRYSTAL BEACH, FLORIDA aka GODDESS OF SMILES and LAUGHTER Nov 25th 2008 at 8:57 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 8:57 am EST)

Good Morning everyone! Good news from Gov. Crist down here in Florida. He announced yesterday that he is seriously considering putting a 90 day freeze on home foreclosures. What a nice Xmas and Holiday (for those of you not Christian) gift that will be. People are trying to figure out how to give their kids somewhat of a Xmas with the little money they have so I'm sure they will appreciate this. Keeping my fingers crossed for those in need of what Gov. Crist may do.

Re: GOOD NEWS FROM FLORIDA | Report to Admin

By Georgie knows that change is coming! Nov 25th 2008 at 9:08 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:08 am EST)

That is VERY good news!

Re: GOOD NEWS FROM FLORIDA | Report to Admin

By Suzanne in Jupiter, FL Nov 25th 2008 at 9:16 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:16 am EST)

Very nice Gov! I may not agree with his politics, but it is his "moderate" ideas and policies on a lot of issues that make him popular here in Florida.

Re: GOOD NEWS FROM FLORIDA | Report to Admin

By Tracy in CT Nov 25th 2008 at 9:55 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:55 am EST)

Our Republican Governor has called for a 60 day moratorium on foreclosures. Apparently Connecticut had the unfortunate distinction of having the nations biggest one month increase in foreclosures.

She also wants mandatory mediation between homeowner and lender to work out a payment plan.

From everything that I have read Governor Rell is doing all she can to keep people in their homes. I am supportive of her efforts. Especially considering how we are bailing out the fat cats. It is nice to see someone gives a crap about the homeowners.

Re: Happy Links | Report to Admin

By What President You Know Does Everything You Like 100% Of The Time? Nov 25th 2008 at 9:17 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:17 am EST)

...Also I noticed last night on the blog that the Obama Family did a very nice job of limiting their responses to the Michael Savage echo chamber...job well done!!!...

Re: Happy Links | Report to Admin

By Sariti Nov 25th 2008 at 2:29 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:29 pm EST)

I wish i am my joyful self

DID YOU KNOW THAT THE NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISOR IS CLOSEST TO PRESIDENT
AND DEALS WITH SEC. OF STATE(hillary)?

HE WAS AGAINST IRAQ WAR AND WANTS TO TALK WITH IRAN. DR BREZINISKI ON MORNING JOE EXPLAINED

SO, HILLARY HAS ABSOLUTELY NO IMPORTANCE
IN PREZ-OBAMA'S ADMINSTRATION. STILL, I AM MAD SHE IS HIS CHOICE

transparency | Report to Admin

By Marbwi Nov 25th 2008 at 9:10 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:10 am EST)

Barack Obama teamed up with Sen. Tom Coburn (R-OK) to pass a law that lifted the veil of secrecy in Washington by creating a Google-like search engine that:

allows ordinary Americans to track federal grants, contracts, earmarks and loans online. In June 2008, Obama and Coburn introduced new Senate legislation to expand the information available online to include details on earmarks, competitive bidding, criminal activities, audit disputes and other government information.

The database --known as "Google for Government"-- was launched by the Office of Management and Budget in early December and is available at
Link

Solving the Economy Crisis | Report to Admin

By kaytlen7 Nov 25th 2008 at 9:13 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:13 am EST)

Give (not loan) each legal taxpaying law abiding American $50,000 tax free. That's $100k per household usually.
#1-They'll put it in the bank--helps out the banking problem.
#2-They'll catch up on their mortgage--helps the mortgage folks.
#3-They'll pay off their credit cards--helps the credit card lenders.
#4-They'll put a down payment down on a house--helps with the housing industry.
#5-They'll buy a new car--helps the auto industry.
#6-They'll buy Christmas presents-helps with the businesses.
And so on....give it to the people and the rest will take care--we can't wait until the banks figure out if they will lend or not and why lend to the people when the banks are getting free money and then getting it back with interest from the people. That's not right!

Re: Solving the Economy Crisis | Report to Admin

By Georgie knows that change is coming! Nov 25th 2008 at 9:22 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:22 am EST)

very good idea. please run for office..

Re: Solving the Economy Crisis | Report to Admin

By Strong Heart Nov 25th 2008 at 9:25 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:25 am EST)

Link

Happy Thanksgiving | Report to Admin

By Renee - It's A New Day Nov 25th 2008 at 9:34 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:34 am EST)

Just popped in to say hello and tell everyone how thankful I was to be one of the millions of volunteers for this campaign. I hope everyone takes a moment to stop and give thanks for all their blessings. I have thoroughly enjoyed participating in events, blogs, fundraising efforts and campaigning.

At the top of my list of things I am thankful for is our new President-elect, Vice President-elect and my family and friends, including the new friends I have met during this campaign.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Re: Happy Thanksgiving | Report to Admin

By ♥ dreamweaver "Grab A Mop" ♥ aka Vicki from Iowa Nov 25th 2008 at 11:30 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:30 am EST)

Back at ya Renee.

Advice Column | Report to Admin

By Yvonne--- for World Peace Nov 25th 2008 at 9:37 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:37 am EST)

This is definitely off subject, but it may have happened to a lot of people out there. It will take your mind off the economy for awhile. :-)

It's a love advice column....
"This whole Sarah Palin thing is killing my relationship with my boyfriend. I'm not even going to say which is which, but one of us is a big supporter and one of us thinks it's the end of the world. And we cannot seem to talk about it without a horrible fight."

Link

(I thought the article was interesting, because this kinda happened with the man I was dating for five months, and we broke up a week before the election. :-) :-)

Re: Advice Column | Report to Admin

By ☞Aunt Becky☜ ... Blogyenta: "I kvetch, therefore I am." Nov 25th 2008 at 9:49 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:49 am EST)

Relax, Yvonne. It's not the end of the world.

Have some of virtual cookies. Give some to the boyfriend. All is well, luv.

Hugs,
auntie b

Re: Advice Column | Report to Admin

By ☞Aunt Becky☜ ... Blogyenta: "I kvetch, therefore I am." Nov 25th 2008 at 9:56 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:56 am EST)

Relax, Yvonne. It's not the end of the world.

Have some of virtual cookies. Give some to the boyfriend. All is well, luv.

Hugs,
auntie b

Re: Advice Column | Report to Admin

By VoteYourRebate in TX = Chrystal Hays Nov 25th 2008 at 12:41 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:41 pm EST)

This may come to be known as the Palin Effect. Many long-term relationships took a dive on this campaign.

On the bright side, some couples were brought closer together, or even introduced, through the campaign over the last 2 years.

It's hard to stay together if you disagree on fundamentals, and Palin is a fundamental symbol, if nothing else.

Re: Advice Column | Report to Admin

By kansasgal Nov 25th 2008 at 5:36 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 5:36 pm EST)

Sounds like a great guy, can I have his number? j/k I'm already married. At least you found out ahead of time. There is no way I would have married someone who didn't share my values.

how to find out a job all over us | Report to Admin

By just as a cetezen Nov 25th 2008 at 9:51 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:51 am EST)

Iwould like to in us on 20janv , history date , for the unity ,and change for the visa it's a big deal , I have been part of caterpillar and lost my job , over here so hard to continue for the new challenge if someone have an idea for me i'be happy to join a new croud , and face all situation ,hand in hand with have to work all together , there is a lot to change but if you send all over countries i'm ready , because senator you gonna have a lot all arround you , so if you can give a chance to serve i'm ready too thank for all courage

Trees For Troops Program from The Christmas SPIRIT Foundation | Report to Admin

By ☮ CR ❤ Nov 25th 2008 at 9:59 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 9:59 am EST)

The Christmas SPIRIT Foundation 2008 Trees for Troops Weekend Program

* For trailer drop-off locations, click here
Consumers can visit these retail lots & farms during Trees for Troops Weekend (Friday, Dec. 5 to Sunday, Dec. 7) to purchase and donate a Real Christmas Tree to be distributed to military families nationwide.

* For base destination map, click here
These are the continental U.S. (CONUS) bases that will receive Trees for Troops trees in 2008. NOTE: Other bases overseas will also receive trees

In honor of Veterans Day on Nov. 11, more than 30 FedEx Office Print and Ship Centers, formerly known as FedEx Kinko's, will host greeting card signings to help spread holiday cheer to military men and women and their families this season.

In 2007:
* 16,846 trees were delivered
* 750+ farmers donated trees; 750
* The trees came from 29 states

Number of bases to which the

* The trees were delivered to 37 countries to bases of National Guard families in four states (CA, IL, NY, TN) Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy

* 15 miles the FedEx trailers traveled in delivering the trees

* Estimated at 51,000 over the road miles ... does not include miles to pickup and delivery points

Christmas Tree farmers and FedEx are donating trees and transportation to say Thank You to our troops and to make their holidays a little brighter.

Link

Here comes.... | Report to Admin

By Tracy in CT Nov 25th 2008 at 10:04 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:04 am EST)

Paulson.

Re: Here comes.... | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Nov 25th 2008 at 10:13 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:13 am EST)

Watch the Market Tank right after he speaks!

Re: Here comes.... | Report to Admin

By Tracy in CT Nov 25th 2008 at 10:18 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:18 am EST)

It has already dropped about 100 points since he started speaking.

Timeline | Report to Admin

By Marita Nov 25th 2008 at 10:07 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:07 am EST)

Barack Obama's Road to the White House

Link

OBAMA NEWS CONFERENCES | Report to Admin

By HSLK: Our Journey Has Just Begun Nov 25th 2008 at 10:09 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:09 am EST)

Today at 12 noon EST and also on Wednesday.

Link

Re: OBAMA NEWS CONFERENCES | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Nov 25th 2008 at 10:19 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:19 am EST)

when Barack comes on the Mrket eill hopfully move higher.

RIGHT NOW PAULSEN is on ad the market is DROPPING!!

This happens EVERTIME he or Bush speak!

Come on PE Obama. Need a sound judgement confrence today once angain.

Since Hank Doesn't Get it. | Report to Admin

By Brian from Wildwood, NJ Nov 25th 2008 at 10:16 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:16 am EST)

I'll attempt to explain it to Hank Paulsen and the rest of them so they understand.

Now you have institutions claiming that the problem lies within the Lending facilities available to Consumers ... and therefore an institutional fix will solve their so called PROBLEM.

Incorrect Hank. But nice try.

Let put this plainly. The American consumer who has supported these mega monolithic faceless central depository payment processors who treat your business as if they have done YOU some favor.

The choice NOT to participate in the credit markets is being made by the CONSUMER.

Think of it of a nice middle finger for all the wonderful service the financial "SERVICES" Industry has provided over the years.

Get it NOW HANK?

I'm pretty sure you're starting to get the POINT.

Re: Since Hank Doesn't Get it. | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Nov 25th 2008 at 10:21 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:21 am EST)

CORRECT BRIAN!!!!

GEEZ, Hank is COMPLETELY OFF ON EVERYTHING TODAY.

Bush & The Environment - Robert Redford | Report to Admin

By VMC Nov 25th 2008 at 10:20 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:20 am EST)

Link

This is EXTREMELY upsetting. I'm not sure what we can do about this. George Bush is a horrible human being. He needs to be stopped.

Re: Bush & The Environment - Robert Redford | Report to Admin

By Patrice from Gardena, CA Nov 25th 2008 at 10:28 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:28 am EST)

I heard this on Rachel's show last night. What are we supposed to do to help fight this? I'm in.

Re: Bush & The Environment - Robert Redford | Report to Admin

By Strong Heart Nov 25th 2008 at 10:35 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:35 am EST)

Now I know why he's called the Sundance Kid!!!

Re: Bush & The Environment - Robert Redford | Report to Admin

By Strong Heart Nov 25th 2008 at 10:40 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:40 am EST)

Would you stab your Mother for a Meal???

Re: Bush & The Environment - Robert Redford | Report to Admin

By Tracy in CT Nov 25th 2008 at 10:39 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:39 am EST)

I also read somewhere (forget where) that he is hurrying to put more restrictions on the family and medical leave act.

Re: NEED YOUR HELP - TAKE ACTION NOW !!! | Report to Admin

By ☮ CR ❤ Nov 25th 2008 at 10:53 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:53 am EST)

Robert Redford (actor, director and environmental activist,trustee of the Natural Resources Defense Council) aired an interview with Rachael Maddow about the Bush administration's Bureau of Land Management on November 4 announced a last-minute plan to lease huge swaths of majestic wilderness in eastern Utah for oil and gas extraction one month before President-elect Obama takes office.

What can we as citizens do about this? Go the the NRDC website to TAKE ACTION NOW!!

Tell the Bush administration not to let coal mining companies destroy valleys and streams!!The Bush administration is about to change a longstanding rule that would make it easier for mining companies to destroy streams and valleys by filling them with sludge, rock and other coal mining waste. Tell officials to put communities and the environment ahead of industry profit.

Link

Change | Report to Admin

By Strong Heart Nov 25th 2008 at 10:21 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:21 am EST)

We have Outsourcing and Infighting when we need One Nation Under God!!!

Well, I guess it's blatantly obvious | Report to Admin

By Czarina rhiannon hussein aka le chat Nov 25th 2008 at 10:29 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:29 am EST)

that if they want confidence to improve, they should keep Paulson OFF THE TV. He speaks, the market goes down, down, down. Until he mentioned Obama's economic team, then it started back up. When Obama speaks I'm hoping it will go up more. Paulson should keep his face away from the public at this point. IMHO Actually, it's so obvious it would be humorous if we weren't all suffering.

Re: Well, I guess it's blatantly obvious | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein Nov 25th 2008 at 10:39 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:39 am EST)

I thought the market was responding to this:

GDP Shrinks: Commerce Department numbers show it decreased at a 0.5% annual rate in the third quarter from July-September.

Link

Re: Well, I guess it's blatantly obvious | Report to Admin

By Czarina rhiannon hussein aka le chat Nov 25th 2008 at 11:03 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:03 am EST)

I assume that, like the combination of Citibank and Obama's presser Monday, the movement was the product of both the Commerce numbers and Paulson's appearance.

Re: Well, I guess it's blatantly obvious | Report to Admin

By Patrice from Gardena, CA Nov 25th 2008 at 10:39 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:39 am EST)

I hear you and I wish Bush, Paulson and the rest of his team would just take an early holiday vacation. Why try to do anything now, they haven't done anything in eight years except cause everyone grief?

Re: Well, I guess it's blatantly obvious | Report to Admin

By Connie Obama (Not held hostage by polls or media) Nov 25th 2008 at 11:22 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:22 am EST)

I couldn't agree more! I wish these two would just get somewhere and sit down!!!!! It's clear that Bush was determined to use up all the $700B so Barack couldn't have access to it, and now he's gone even further with Citicorp and even 'threatened' to do even more if need be'.

He returned from Peru where nobody gave a damn (except wishing he'd stay) and saw all the excitement about PEO's presser yesterday and tried to beat him to the cameras!

Now, today, it's going to Ft Campbell to wish the troops Happy TG and eat with them. Who gives a sh**? He's obviously struggling to stay relebvant and in the media. He knew PEO has another presser today at noon so he runs out to Campbell. iF bUSH'S EVENT IS STILL GOING AT NOON, I HOPE THE MEDIA SWITCHES TO baRACK!

I am truly sick of this man (Bush)! I didn't understand any of that gobbledegook Paulsen was talking about this morning. If congress had to approve the $700B TARP, why not the $600B presented today?

Bush is determined to leave such a hole for Barack hoping to severely hamper his ability to do anything. Palusen is busy adding more lining to his and the ccorporate world's pockets before Bush leaves office. With Bush's time getting shorter and shorter I feel we're impotent to do anything about it! I personnally don't want to bail irresponsible, greedy ppl out of mortgages they should never have gotten. I had the chance to move up but refinanced instead, staying within my means.

It's all screwed up and Jan 20th can't come soon enough!

p.s. I refuse to watch Bush on ANYTHING. HE SICKENS ME.

Re: Well, I guess it's blatantly obvious | Report to Admin

By Connie Obama (Not held hostage by polls or media) Nov 25th 2008 at 11:47 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:47 am EST)

I couldn't agree more! I wish these two would just get somewhere and sit down!!!!! It's clear that Bush was determined to use up all the $700B so Barack couldn't have access to it, and now he's gone even further with Citicorp and even 'threatened' to do even more if need be'.

He returned from Peru where nobody gave a damn (except wishing he'd stay) and saw all the excitement about PEO's presser yesterday and tried to beat him to the cameras!

Now, today, it's going to Ft Campbell to wish the troops Happy TG and eat with them. Who gives a sh**? He's obviously struggling to stay relebvant and in the media. He knew PEO has another presser today at noon so he runs out to Campbell. iF bUSH'S EVENT IS STILL GOING AT NOON, I HOPE THE MEDIA SWITCHES TO baRACK!

I am truly sick of this man (Bush)! I didn't understand any of that gobbledegook Paulsen was talking about this morning. If congress had to approve the $700B TARP, why not the $600B presented today?

Bush is determined to leave such a hole for Barack hoping to severely hamper his ability to do anything. Palusen is busy adding more lining to his and the ccorporate world's pockets before Bush leaves office. With Bush's time getting shorter and shorter I feel we're impotent to do anything about it! I personnally don't want to bail irresponsible, greedy ppl out of mortgages they should never have gotten. I had the chance to move up but refinanced instead, staying within my means.

It's all screwed up and Jan 20th can't come soon enough!

p.s. I refuse to watch Bush on ANYTHING. HE SICKENS ME.

Obama Presser on Wed. | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein Nov 25th 2008 at 10:33 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:33 am EST)

NBC News: Obama to hold another news conference on the economy Wednesday morning.

Also-

Barbara Walters to interview the Obamas for an ABC News special Wednesday at 10 pm ET.

Also-

Obama to meet with Governors Next Week :

Nebraska Gov. Heineman says the president-elect is inviting the nation's governors to meet with him at Independence Hall in Philadelphia Dec. 2.

Says the meeting will be "to have a conversation on the challenges facing America."

Re: Obama Presser on Wed. | Report to Admin

By Marbwi Nov 25th 2008 at 10:45 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:45 am EST)

Citizens meet with ward leaders.

Ward leaders meet with mayors.

Mayors meet with local businesses.

Mayors meet with governors.

Governors meet with senators/representatives(state and federal).

Governors meet with President.

That is how bottom up politics should take place. That is how the people on top find out what is really on the consumers' mind.

Re: Obama Presser on Wed. | Report to Admin

By Rhonda for Barack Obama in Montgomery, Alabama Nov 25th 2008 at 10:49 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:49 am EST)

Kimberly, Thanks for the Information!

I’ll be watching!!!

Re: Obama Presser on Wed. | Report to Admin

By ◎Desert Dove Dan◎ Nov 25th 2008 at 10:52 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:52 am EST)

The last forum that PE Obama had with a group of governors was one of the most informative and interesting meetings I've seen in a long time. It was live streamed, but in my opinion it should have been on national TV. It was serious business but with an array of excellent hopeful solutions. PE Obama was masterful at directing the discussion and keeping it focused. It was so refreshing for me to see someone really take control but he did it so deftly because he allowed every different person's strengths to show through.

Re: Obama Presser on Wed. | Report to Admin

By ♥ T. (a.k.a. Tanya) ♥ Nov 25th 2008 at 11:29 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:29 am EST)

You're so right, Dan.

Thanks for the info, Kim!

Re: Obama Presser on Wed. | Report to Admin

By "Makeda" Independent Sweetie who helped to elect President Barack Hussein Obama Nov 25th 2008 at 11:07 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:07 am EST)

Thanks for the information.

OH! The agony of waiting | Report to Admin

By Marbwi Nov 25th 2008 at 10:37 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:37 am EST)

Those of us who followed the Democratic primary knew that it was definitely over right after the Wisconsin and/or North Carolina primaries. Yet, we had to sit through more STUFF until June 3rd.

Now, the same feeling has come over me with the LAME DUCK WATCH. Everytime Paulson, Bush etc appear on the tv. I switch the channel.

Some are talking about moving up the inauguration date. But, there is an important document that controls such things:

The day of inauguration was changed by the Twentieth Amendment from March 4 to noon on January 20, beginning with Franklin D. Roosevelt's second term in 1937.
The Twentieth Amendment of the Constitution
Link

Re: OH! The agony of waiting | Report to Admin

By kansasgal Nov 25th 2008 at 2:39 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:39 pm EST)

Yep, the Constitution sure is a pretty important document. It's good to know that people still respect it. I know you are all excited like kids on Christmas morning - or kids during "The Holidays," to be PC, but messing with the constitution is not the right answer.

Good Morning Obama Landers! | Report to Admin

By Megan in Northwest Indiana Nov 25th 2008 at 10:39 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:39 am EST)

Some other 'not so groovy' things that the Bush Administration is trying to do before it hits the road out of D.C.
Change.gov: President-elect Barack Obama's weekly radio address
Link
The 45th Anniversary of President Kennedy's Assasination: 'The Story' from NPR entitled 'Kennedy's Casket' and my story
Link
The first school named for Barack Obama: 'The Barack Obama Elementary School'
Link
John F. Kennedy: The President and the Press: Address before the American Newspaper Publishers Association
Link
Kos Diarist: Kos says of Indiana "The gains are dramatic. The most dramatic of any state, in fact. "
Link
Iran Contra Affair - Subverting the Constitution of the United States and The Secret Government
Link
Breaking News: Obama abandons the 'Netroots' - NOT!
Link
Passionate Suits - The Sequel: This time on Fox News Neil Cavuto loses control of his show and Ben Stein's head almost pops off
Link
Nate Silver predicting that Al Franken will prevail over Norm Coleman in MN by Razor Thin Margin
Link
Oh those wacky, crazy, totally clueless CEOs of the Big Three Auto Makers!
Link
Text of Remarks: President-Elect Obama Announces EconomicTeam
Link
TPM Sunday Talk Show Roundup: The Word of the Day is BIG!
Link
My Open Letter to Joe Lieberman, Monday, November 24, 2008
Link

Beautiful silence? | Report to Admin

By Tracy in CT Nov 25th 2008 at 10:42 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:42 am EST)

OK, I am sorry she broke her jaw but Ann Coulter's jaw being wired shut seems like a good thing to me.

Link

Re: Beautiful silence? | Report to Admin

By Strong Heart Nov 25th 2008 at 10:49 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:49 am EST)

Did they use Barbed Wire...

Re: Beautiful silence? | Report to Admin

By Nanci A patriotic dissident Nov 25th 2008 at 10:53 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:53 am EST)

:-)!!!!!

Her being forced to be quiet is never a bad thing!

I saw that on huffpo this a.m. and had a quiet chuckle!

Now if only Hannity and Limbaugh could have their jaws wired shut too! lol

Re: Beautiful silence? | Report to Admin

By ◎Desert Dove Dan◎ Nov 25th 2008 at 10:57 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:57 am EST)

oh glorious silence!

Link

Re: Beautiful silence? | Report to Admin

By Tracy in CT Nov 25th 2008 at 11:11 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:11 am EST)

I knew either you or Strong Heart would post an appropriate video!

: )

Re: Beautiful silence? | Report to Admin

By Strong Heart Nov 25th 2008 at 11:28 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:28 am EST)

I was thinking...

Link

Re: Beautiful silence? | Report to Admin

By JD from Seal Beach, CA Nov 25th 2008 at 11:30 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:30 am EST)

This is such a great song from the '60s. The lyrics still apply.

Re: Beautiful silence? | Report to Admin

By T. Perry Nov 25th 2008 at 11:11 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:11 am EST)

First the eye patch, now this. You almost wonder if it's a publicity gimmick.

Regarding Auto Maker Rescue | Report to Admin

By Janet from Springboro, OH Nov 25th 2008 at 10:54 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 10:54 am EST)

Regarding the proposed loan to US Auto Makers, why can't the federal Government use the 25 Billion dollars to fund low interest loans to people to buy "approved" fuel efficient American made cars.

This will help people who cant get loans to purchase cars and it would help auto makers by increasing demand for fuel efficient cars. It would also give a boost to the alternitive energy industry.

Re: Regarding Auto Maker Rescue | Report to Admin

By captain o - hopemonger Nov 25th 2008 at 11:07 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:07 am EST)

Let's not forget: The Detroit automakers have been acting against the national interest for decades.

It all started back in the 1930's, when GM actively bought up and dismantled our national public transit system from coast to coast.

More recently, GM has continued to build global warming Incredible Hulks - gas-guzzing vehicles that look like giant toppled refrigerators. These things use tons of gas, are extremely heavy, and are not what Americans want to buy.

A "bailout" of Detroit, as it stands today, is a terrible idea. Right now, Detroit is tooled to produce only Global Warmers. ANYTHING that can be done to get Detroit to stop building and selling these vehicles - including bankruptcy - is a good thing.

That said, why not use this as an opportunity to put Detroit on a healthier course, one that supports the national interest? Tie any bailout to retooling to produce practical electric cars. That's what we need - why settle for anything less?

Re: Regarding Auto Maker Rescue | Report to Admin

By JD from Seal Beach, CA Nov 25th 2008 at 11:26 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:26 am EST)

I agree with your comments. But how does the auto industry differ from the likes of Citigroup and AIG? Why bail those two out without significant restructuring of management and business practices. Does Citi's $500 million sponsorship of the new Mets stadium make sense in this environment? Why is it that people who take a shower before they go to work are bailed out and those who have to take a shower after they work are not?

We cannot lose a major player in our manufacturing base. The auto industry is fixable. Probably more so than some of the banks that have been bailed out.

Re: Regarding Auto Maker Rescue | Report to Admin

By Jade--Who Loves to Decorate Her Latte Cup With Flag Pins! Nov 25th 2008 at 11:27 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:27 am EST)

"That said, why not use this as an opportunity to put Detroit on a healthier course, one that supports the national interest? Tie any bailout to retooling to produce practical electric cars"

There is $25 billion set aside already for that purpose. Whatever additional loan/bailout/resue they get should have well thought out ties to it, too.

People have a right to be upset with the auto industry for not keeping up with the times. At the same time, we have to keep in mind that the price of oil (of which 30%-60% of the high cost was the result of oil speculation) and the credit crunch really hurt the industry. Not just the US auto industry. Japan, China, Germany, and other countries' auto industries have been hit, too.

The question of a bailout is a no-brainer. The bigger question is: will it work? The Wall Street criminals have severely damaged the economy. Our banks have exposed themselves to toxic derviatives whose sum is greater than the world's GDP. If the auto industry gets bailed out, will they be able to keep people employed? Will consumers be able to buy autos from them? A lot of it appears to depend on how much we still don't know about the health of the financial infrastructure.

Obama spending plans a work in progress | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Nov 25th 2008 at 11:01 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:01 am EST)

While Barack Obama's presidential campaign began with stern talk about the federal deficit, he has been sounding a different note about government spending lately, signaling in his public remarks a newfound willingness to take on additional debt, at least in the near future.

In a press conference Monday naming the top members of his economic team, the president-elect pledged to address reporters’ questions about the yawning federal budget deficit at a second availability Tuesday.

“Short term, we’ve got to focus on boosting the economy and creating 2.5 million jobs, but part and parcel of that is a plan for a sustainable fiscal situation, long-term, and that’s going to require some reforms in Washington,” Obama said. “I’m going to be discussing that more tomorrow.”

Obama's Tuesday press conference comes at a moment when he and his advisers continue to hedge their positions on deficit spending, obscuring their actual intentions as they move toward unveiling a potentially costly economic stimulus package.

Link

Re: Obama spending plans a work in progress | Report to Admin

By captain o - hopemonger Nov 25th 2008 at 11:10 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:10 am EST)

We are staring down Great Depression II, brought to you by Bush. When you're on the threshold of a depression, you don't worry about deficit spending as much. If we don't use taxpayer monies to get people working and get the economy moving, the Depression will be vastly worse.

This is a time for government spending, if there ever was one.

Re: Obama spending plans a work in progress | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein Nov 25th 2008 at 11:20 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:20 am EST)

Yeah, no time for 'fiscal responsibility'.

Quite frankly the only president in recent memory who was genuinely fiscally responsible was Bill Clinton- though conservatives make the case for Reagan, but didn't the deficit balloon under his Admin.?

Re: Obama spending plans a work in progress | Report to Admin

By kansasgal Nov 25th 2008 at 2:53 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:53 pm EST)

Yes, thanks to the Republican controlled Congress. Can't say that I agree that there is EVER a good time for governement spending. I believe that business grows the economy, not government. Governement is not good for long term growth, they are too inefficient and don't have the vision to predict what people will want in 4-5 years. Businesses with vision succeed, while others (look at GM) fail. If it weren't for all these bailouts, we would have been able to clear out those without vision to make room for those with.

Fiscal responsibility should always be a goal, IMO.

Sesno: 6 lessons for President-elect Obama | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Nov 25th 2008 at 11:06 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:06 am EST)

By Frank Sesno
CNN Special Correspondent

(CNN) -- President-elect Barack Obama deserves extra credit for looking back even as he looks ahead. Knowing that he's about to take the helm of this floundering ship of state, he's sought some inspiration from captains who've navigated these waters before.

President-elect Barack Obama appears at a press conference in Chicago, Illinois, on Monday.

"I've been spending a lot of time reading [Abraham] Lincoln," Obama told CBS' "60 Minutes." "There is wisdom there and humility about his approach to government, even before he was president, that I just find very helpful."

Good stuff. A president with a sense of history.

But Obama might also find it helpful to study some more recent presidential experience in order to avoid early-on mistakes that can send a presidency reeling, define it in unflattering ways, and distract from the long-haul work that really matters.

So here are a half-dozen simple lessons drawn from recent experience:

Lesson one: Don't be naive and don't overreach.

President John F. Kennedy learned this lesson early on with the disastrous Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba.

The top-secret operation had been in the planning stages for nearly a year before Kennedy was sworn in. The holdover CIA director and top military brass confidently assured the young president that the operation would succeed. They believed that Fidel Castro, the communist firebrand just 90 miles from American shores, could be toppled by a bunch of U.S.-trained Cuban exiles.

But the invasion was riddled with military and intelligence problems. Castro knew the invasion was coming. He had his forces ready. The invaders never made it past the beaches. Just three months into the job, JFK had an epic failure on his hands.

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He went on national television on April 21, 1961, and said: "There's an old saying that victory has a hundred fathers and defeat is an orphan. I am the responsible officer of the government."

He got credit for his candor. But Kennedy's bright promise was tarnished. He had bought into a flawed plan that promised more than it could deliver, authored by people who were as certain of the outcome as they were of themselves.

Link

Re: Sesno: 6 lessons for President-elect Obama | Report to Admin

By Just another Dreamer (Jersey Girl ) Nov 25th 2008 at 11:45 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:45 am EST)

I trust PE Obama's judgement over Sesno and anyone else thanks but no thanks for the advice.

Sorry Georgia... | Report to Admin

By Tracy in CT Nov 25th 2008 at 11:12 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:12 am EST)

but Palin is headed your way.

Re: Sorry Georgia... | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Nov 25th 2008 at 11:17 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:17 am EST)

i think the good people of Georgia have better things ro think about.

Sarah palin is Republican Distraction.

Why is it that everytime we face a crisis, the Repubs. know exactly how to distract,LIKE RIGHT NOW with this story??

Let's see if she can pull in the vrowds EITHOUT being a VP candidate.

Re: Sorry Georgia... | Report to Admin

By ♥ T. (a.k.a. Tanya) ♥ Nov 25th 2008 at 11:23 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:23 am EST)

Sadly, there are members of the extreme Right down here that love the chick. Perhaps her -- ahem -- "psyche" reminds them of themselves.

Bleh.

Re: Sorry Georgia... | Report to Admin

By shaka Nov 25th 2008 at 4:32 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 4:32 pm EST)

I am a woman and I hate to put down another woman but Sarah Palin is the dumbest ass I have ever seen, she thinks it is news worthy to give a statement in front of a turkey slaughter house no holds barred, and now this advertisement saying Thank You Sarah Palin, thank You for what I ask, what the Hell are they thanking her for???? for standing in front of a camera and insulting the Intellegence of the American Woman. I dont Get It.Gracie Allen played the dumb wife but she was only acting, Sarah is not acting, it is for REAL SHE IS DUMB

Re: Sorry Georgia... | Report to Admin

By kansasgal Nov 25th 2008 at 5:57 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 5:57 pm EST)

No, you don't hate putting down women. You could have ignored it, but you CHOSE to put her down. Gov. Palin pardons a turkey, and does an interview afterward. BIG DEAL - get over it already. There was no flying blood, ONE turky got its neck wrung, the guy held off on the second turkey. It is a turkey farm, not a "SLAUGHTERHOUSE." I guess I must be just another cold-hearted woman like Palin because I watched the same video and scratched my head in confusion at what the big deal was.

You people have such a hateful obsession with her. You do not get to be a mayor by being stupid. You do not get to be a governor by being dumb.

YOU give women a bad name, and you give me a bad taste in my mouth.

Re: Sorry Georgia... | Report to Admin

By Ron Nov 26th 2008 at 3:37 am EST (Updated Nov 26th 2008 at 3:37 am EST)

The incongruity of Sarah's turkey video made her look like a turkey. The woman is dumb, dumb, dumb. hahahahaha. She is straight-up hilarious. She's the political version of Jessica Simpson, only older. Next time, Katie C. should asked her what Chicken of the Sea is. lol

Yet, dang, I love Sarah & would love to give her a big hug & a kiss. But would I vote for her for prez, in 2012 or any other time, even if Obama falls flat on his face as prez? Ummm... no. lol

I was laughing at her all the time she was merrily smiling & chirping away while the dude behind her was putting turkeys in the hopper for slaughter and bleeding -- that trough below the hoppers was running with turkey blood, if yall noticed.

Re: Sorry Georgia... | Report to Admin

By Anthony in N.C. Nov 25th 2008 at 11:17 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:17 am EST)

The Republicans love sideshows.

Re: Sorry Georgia... | Report to Admin

By JD from Seal Beach, CA Nov 25th 2008 at 11:28 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:28 am EST)

I hope she brings her turkeys.

Re: Sorry Georgia... | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Nov 25th 2008 at 12:25 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:25 pm EST)

I just posted about this, too. Actually, Romney and Huckabee were here recently. I think. She wants to stay in the limelight for a potential Washington, DC position. She's dreaming....

Re: Sorry Georgia... | Report to Admin

By Soma Nov 25th 2008 at 1:47 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:47 pm EST)

She caused quite a stir when she came to PA - not in a positive way.
Hope she doesn't rile up too many people in GA.

Re: Sorry Georgia... | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Nov 25th 2008 at 3:11 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 3:11 pm EST)

This is what I am concerned about, too. She is negative, and appeals to negative people. I remain confident that there are enough Democrats in Georgia to offset her negativism.

Barack Obama Is Doing Whatever it Takes to Save Our Economy!!! | Report to Admin

By Rhonda for Barack Obama in Montgomery, Alabama Nov 25th 2008 at 11:15 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:15 am EST)

I really hope this works! I’ll trust Barack with this kind of money! He will re-instate common sense regulations and oversight to make sure the money is being used properly. We will have to spend money to create jobs and repair our crumbling infrastructure!

Obama has a 500 Billion Dollar Economic Stimulus Package

WASHINGTON - President-elect Barack Obama and Congressional Democrats are laying the groundwork for quick enactment in January of a giant, two-year economic rescue package that will total about a half-trillion dollars.

His economic team in place, Obama has tasked his aides with assembling an ambitious measure to pump money swiftly into the battered economy, but also create 2.5 million new jobs, send a tax cut to the poor and middle class, and make massive government investments in energy-saving and other technologies designed to pay for themselves in the long run.

Link

Re: Barack Obama Is Doing Whatever it Takes to Save Our Economy!!! | Report to Admin

By ♥ T. (a.k.a. Tanya) ♥ Nov 25th 2008 at 11:19 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:19 am EST)

Thx for that link, Rhonda!

Re: Barack Obama Is Doing Whatever it Takes to Save Our Economy!!! | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Nov 25th 2008 at 11:23 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:23 am EST)

IT WILL ALSO DEPEND ON ALL OF US.

The people of this ountry need to get it together with THEIR debt. It is going to be a wake up call when we are TOLD...NO MORE FREE RIDE with credit cards and OvER SPENDING.

It is going to be very PAINFUL FOR SOME FOLKS.

Take pause | Report to Admin

By ♪ Proud to be an Obamacan! ♪ Nov 25th 2008 at 11:27 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:27 am EST)

I personally know of at least two individuals that are losing their spousal health insurance coverage (one in Florida and one in Missouri) because the employer can no longer afford to cover it. We have not heard yet what is going to happen to ours through work. As we take pause on this Thanksgiving to give thanks, let's remember that alot of fellow Americans are really going through some tough times. Say a prayer for them.

Bush addressing the troops | Report to Admin

By T. Perry Nov 25th 2008 at 11:23 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:23 am EST)

Is anyone watching Bush with the troops? I swear he just said that the Taliban was defeated and democracy reigns in Afghanistan.

Re: Bush addressing the troops | Report to Admin

By Jade--Who Loves to Decorate Her Latte Cup With Flag Pins! Nov 25th 2008 at 11:33 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:33 am EST)

All I heard (TV is on on another room) was a bunch of grunting and yipping.

Re: Bush addressing the troops | Report to Admin

By JD from Seal Beach, CA Nov 25th 2008 at 11:41 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:41 am EST)

Are you sure you weren't watching Animal Planet? Sometimes it's hard to tell.

Re: Bush addressing the troops | Report to Admin

By Jade--Who Loves to Decorate Her Latte Cup With Flag Pins! Nov 25th 2008 at 11:59 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:59 am EST)

Unfortunately, yes; I was tuned into MSNBC.

Re: Bush addressing the troops | Report to Admin

By Cynthia, TX Nov 25th 2008 at 11:44 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:44 am EST)

had to mute the tv on that one

Re: Bush addressing the troops | Report to Admin

By Connie Obama (Not held hostage by polls or media) Nov 25th 2008 at 12:01 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:01 pm EST)

I refuse to watch Bush.

Michelle Obama | Report to Admin

By Kimberly Helen Hussein Nov 25th 2008 at 11:27 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:27 am EST)

I've never seen this photo before, but it is simply stunning:

Link

Re: Michelle Obama | Report to Admin

By Jade--Who Loves to Decorate Her Latte Cup With Flag Pins! Nov 25th 2008 at 11:34 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:34 am EST)

Stunning indeed.

Re: Michelle Obama | Report to Admin

By Tracy in CT Nov 25th 2008 at 11:34 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:34 am EST)

Whoah! She is stunning!

Re: Michelle Obama | Report to Admin

By Rhonda for Barack Obama in Montgomery, Alabama Nov 25th 2008 at 11:42 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:42 am EST)

WOW!! Michelle is a Gorgeous Woman!!

I think of Strength and Grace when I see her!

Re: Michelle Obama | Report to Admin

By alpha Nov 25th 2008 at 11:49 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:49 am EST)

Are you kidd'n me....this is a beautiful young
Black Women with a strong legacy for "FAMILY'

"WOW" This is the Best Looking First Lady since
Jackie O. Michelle Obama have a future is modeling

Great Pic...."WOW"

Re: Michelle Obama | Report to Admin

By Cynthia, TX Nov 25th 2008 at 11:45 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:45 am EST)

wow! nice photo.

Re: Michelle Obama | Report to Admin

By Michelle B Nov 25th 2008 at 12:01 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:01 pm EST)

She is SO BEAUTIFUL!!!

Whenever I stop long enough to think that a fellow descendent of slaves is now the first lady of the United States, I want to weep-- especially for my grandmothers who did not live to see this day.

They would have been so proud of Michelle and how she embodies Black women. It's an image the world has long needed to see.

Re: Michelle Obama | Report to Admin

By Ron Nov 26th 2008 at 3:41 am EST (Updated Nov 26th 2008 at 3:41 am EST)

Michelle, do you also like her because her name is Michelle? If so, I don't blame u. I never met a Michelle I didn't like. heheh

Re: Michelle Obama | Report to Admin

By Soma Nov 25th 2008 at 1:49 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:49 pm EST)

Gorgeous, simply gorgeous.

McCain's Presser | Report to Admin

By ♥ T. (a.k.a. Tanya) ♥ Nov 25th 2008 at 11:32 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:32 am EST)

Has there been any mention of the press conference McCain announced on yesterday?

Re: McCain's Presser | Report to Admin

By Jade--Who Loves to Decorate Her Latte Cup With Flag Pins! Nov 25th 2008 at 11:34 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:34 am EST)

Will be on MSNBC at 1:00.

Re: McCain's Presser | Report to Admin

By ♥ dreamweaver "Grab A Mop" ♥ aka Vicki from Iowa Nov 25th 2008 at 11:51 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:51 am EST)

It is on MSNBC at 12:00

Re: McCain's Presser | Report to Admin

By ♥ dreamweaver "Grab A Mop" ♥ aka Vicki from Iowa Nov 25th 2008 at 11:52 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:52 am EST)

Ha ha Jade you must be in eastern time zone. I am in Central time zone. :-)

Re: McCain's Presser | Report to Admin

By Jade--Who Loves to Decorate Her Latte Cup With Flag Pins! Nov 25th 2008 at 11:56 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:56 am EST)

Oops! You're right. :-)

Re: McCain's Presser | Report to Admin

By Jade--Who Loves to Decorate Her Latte Cup With Flag Pins! Nov 25th 2008 at 11:55 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:55 am EST)

Barack is at 12; McCain is at 1.

Re: McCain's Presser | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Nov 25th 2008 at 12:29 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:29 pm EST)

Oh well, I missed it at 12 noon. Was listening to the local news about Palin. I need to visit this site earlier in the day. The bloggers on this site are always in the "know". Thnaks for posting, anyway!!!

Alan Colmes leaving Hannity | Report to Admin

By JD from Seal Beach, CA Nov 25th 2008 at 11:39 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:39 am EST)

News item: "Alan Colmes leaving Hannity. Hannity will run solo."

Funny, I thought Alan left the show 12 years ago. Hasn't Hannity been running solo the whole time?

;D

Re: Alan Colmes leaving Hannity | Report to Admin

By isaiah Nov 25th 2008 at 12:00 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:00 pm EST)

Who cares! I don' watch FOX NEWS. I wish Mr Colmes well, but FOX NEWS has proven itself to be the PROPAGANDA WING of the NEOCONS.

Michelle OBAMA: Beauty and Smartness... | Report to Admin

By ♥♪Ben, a true evangelical for OBAMA♪♥ Nov 25th 2008 at 11:42 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:42 am EST)

Link

We are truly blessed to have such a First Lady...

Thank YOU LORD!!!

RealityChex.com | Report to Admin

By Marie from Fort Myers, FL Nov 25th 2008 at 11:42 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:42 am EST)

Another great campaign video. If you're not near a TV, you may want to connect to live streaming video via RealityChex.com at the Link at noon Eastern time to hear the President-Elect's news conference. I'll try to get up a video of the presser after the fact, too.

In the meantime, check out RealityChex.com for the latest news & opinion on the transition.

BUSH TAX CUTS NEED TO DIE A SLOW DEATH!!! | Report to Admin

By Cynthia, TX Nov 25th 2008 at 11:43 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:43 am EST)

Sorry, I am not an economists but I just don't understand how you continue this method of taxing wealthy/business people less.

We are currently borrowing money from countries they don't like us very much to give wealthy people here tax breaks. Why? when they continue to ship jobs overseas, maintain offshore accounts to shelter their wealth and use special tax accounts and tax lawyers to get out of paying the little tax they are left to pay.

It seems to me this would erode our current tax base to pay for the very services we all need including them. So, they get to use these services and not help pay for them?

Why is this so hard to see? I just get it.

Wild Horse Update Article...good news | Report to Admin

By VoteYourRebate in TX = Chrystal Hays Nov 25th 2008 at 11:45 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:45 am EST)

This is good news, but it will not be enough. We are going to have to legislate common sense, again, it seems.

Link

If You're Out There | Report to Admin

By meta Nov 25th 2008 at 11:45 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:45 am EST)

What John Legend started in the blog's video above, he finishes here:

Link

DEFENSE SECRETARY GATES' PROPOSAL | Report to Admin

By isaiah Nov 25th 2008 at 11:46 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:46 am EST)

The defense secretary is authorizing a review on how the defense department can get more involved in domestic crises, like hurricanes and earthquakes. NO,NO,NO! There is a reason the founders did not want the U S MILITARY involved in domestic matters. What might be acceptible is that the vast resources of the military, personnel and equipment, be on special occasions, incorporated into the STATES"s NATIONAL GUARD, with CIVILIAN control.If we have not learned nothing else from 8 years of BUSH & COMPANY, it is that "POWER CORRUPS and ABSOLUTE POWER CORRUPS ABSOLUTELY! Great respect to MR GATES,but please, let's not surrender our country to the U S MILITARY. THE NATIONAL GUARD, ARMY RESERVE, maybe! BUT ONLY UNDER CIVILIAN CONTROL. The fact that this review is coming from the DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE is an ominous sign, It has GEORGE BUSH'S finger prints all over it. After ABU GHRAIB, TOURTURE, DOMESTIC SPYING ON AMERICANS, POLITICIZING THE JUSTICE DEPT.ect... THANkS, but NO THANkS. The defense department needs to find ways to help the GOVERNORS bulid up their NATIONAL GUARD units for the expressed purpose.

post the speaking schedule and topic on change.gov | Report to Admin

By Lee Church Nov 25th 2008 at 11:48 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:48 am EST)

Chris Hass,
I think we have done a very good job of letting people know what is coming up and what the topic will be. In yesterday's press conference for example Barack let us know he would be speaking to us today on what are approach is to making the necessary cuts to the budget. This added to the sense of stability in the markets tremendously (as most know business likes stability and doesn't like suprises).

I looked for the upcoming press conference on change.gov this morning and didn't see any reference to it.. so I think.. ok.. are we shifting our plan.. is there an event i'm unaware of that caused it to be cancelled.. etc.. In a word, uncertainty (yes, I have moments of uncertainty.. :).

My concern isn't for myself, but that others may have had a similar gittery feeling despite Obama's stellar handling of the crisis.

So I had some concern that while we are announcing the next immediate step (yesterday's mention of today's press conference topic) I saw that it was not followed up as well as it could have been on the change.gov site (unless I missed something).

I would like to see the speaking schedule, particularly on the economic recovery issues scheduled a bit more clearly on change.gov. Of course all the usual concerns, such as security and flexibility to adapt need to be covered, but in this case I think we could have done better in laying out a calm "this is what is going to happen" tone. Not to take anything away from the performance handling the crisis in the past two weeks, it has been a stellar job all around. My suggestion is simply a tweak.

I have to run.. so retyping this post to organize my thoughts better will have to wait.. yet I think you get the 'gist' of what I'm saying and perhaps there is something that can be done if only for the present economic crisis handling mode we are in.

As always.. thanks!

Lee

Paulson is a financial terrorist | Report to Admin

By Jade--Who Loves to Decorate Her Latte Cup With Flag Pins! Nov 25th 2008 at 11:48 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:48 am EST)

Check out the video:

Link

Re: Paulson is a financial terrorist | Report to Admin

By Kestrel Nov 25th 2008 at 1:13 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:13 pm EST)

I love Max Keiser! He used to work on Wall Street but is now a journalist. When he learned Bush won in 2000, he LEFT America, but now plans to come back that Obama won. Even though the economic news is doom and gloom these days, he's quite entertaining and good at predicting what's in store. He has his own website (just type in his name) with economic news headlines and his radio show.

Re: Paulson is a financial terrorist | Report to Admin

By Livvy Nov 25th 2008 at 2:10 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:10 pm EST)

ha that's funny.. he left America.. he can come home now. BO will bring many American's home

Awaiting Obama Transitition Team Briefing | Report to Admin

By Megan in Northwest Indiana Nov 25th 2008 at 11:55 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:55 am EST)

Link

Re: Awaiting Obama Transitition Team Briefing | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Nov 25th 2008 at 12:00 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:00 pm EST)

Look how low the DOW is at this moment.

Barack is now speaking!!!

Re: Awaiting Obama Transitition Team Briefing | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Nov 25th 2008 at 12:13 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:13 pm EST)

So,

Anything new????

Obama News Conference! | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Nov 25th 2008 at 11:58 am EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 11:58 am EST)

Link

Re: Obama News Conference! | Report to Admin

By TstormLortonVA "Health Care Reform Now!: Nov 25th 2008 at 12:13 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:13 pm EST)

Watching the news conference now. Hey guys..we done good! President elect is doing a great job instilling confidence.

Re: Obama News Conference! | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Nov 25th 2008 at 12:17 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:17 pm EST)

I like it when he said "When I sign it into law". I said to myself Wow!! That really sounded good!!

My prayer is that Jesus Lead and Guide President Obama into the right direction, help him with hard decisions in Jesus Name!

Love & Hugs!

Re: Obama News Conference! | Report to Admin

By Czarina Vero - who loves her new President - OBAMA!!!!! Nov 25th 2008 at 12:33 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:33 pm EST)

I like the sound of that too! He really has transformed before our eyes. He just looks like a President and sounds like one too.

He seems like he has a grasp on things, even though it's nearly impossible for anyone to really know how to fix this mess we're in.

Re: Obama News Conference! | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Nov 25th 2008 at 12:47 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:47 pm EST)

I agree Vero! The last 8 years is what we are paying for now it won't be easy be we will see results!

Love & Hugs!

Re: Obama News Conference! | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Nov 25th 2008 at 12:24 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:24 pm EST)

The Market dropped again. where is the bottom???

GA Early & Advanced Voting Update | Report to Admin

By Patriot2008 Nov 25th 2008 at 12:17 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:17 pm EST)

Just heard that only about 150,000 voters have already voted in the Georgia Runoff Election. Please continue to make calls. Also, Sarah Palin is coming to Georgia to rally the GOP base. She will campaign for Saxby in 4 cities including Savannah...strange. Our county voted for Obama-Biden. Maybe, Bill Clinton should have come to Savannah as well. This would get the students back to the polls.

Barack just gave an AWESOME Press Conference!! | Report to Admin

By Rhonda for Barack Obama in Montgomery, Alabama Nov 25th 2008 at 12:24 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:24 pm EST)

Our President-elect looks and sounds like he did on the campaign trail!!

I believe that Barack Obama will deliver on his economic promises!!

Lord, please move all obstacles preventing Barack from fixing our economy!

With God’s Help and God’s Favor, it will be done!!

Re: Barack just gave an AWESOME Press Conference!! | Report to Admin

By Debbie for Obama/Biden Thank You Jesus! Nov 25th 2008 at 12:35 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:35 pm EST)

In Jesus Name!

Love & Hugs!

Re: Barack just gave an AWESOME Press Conference!! | Report to Admin

By Tracy in CT Nov 25th 2008 at 12:38 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:38 pm EST)

I just walked in so I missed it.... going to go read about it now....

Thank you, Barack Obama | Report to Admin

By meta Nov 25th 2008 at 12:26 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:26 pm EST)

WHOA!!!! EXCELLENT press conference. Both the intelligence and the common sense are staggering. Barack will calm things down, I have no doubt. What an inspiration he is.

The challenges are extreme, but I am positively HOPEFUL. We have a great leader at last.

Re: Thank you, Barack Obama | Report to Admin

By Michelle B Nov 25th 2008 at 12:29 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:29 pm EST)

Why can't he just be president NOW!!!!!

There's no telling how much more damage W. can do in 8 weeks.

Oh well, I'm working on my patience but its nice to have something to look forward to.

Michelle Obama | Report to Admin

By meta Nov 25th 2008 at 12:28 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:28 pm EST)

Ta-Nehisi Coates has a little meltdown:

Link

Activity Index | Report to Admin

By ♥ dreamweaver "Grab A Mop" ♥ aka Vicki from Iowa Nov 25th 2008 at 12:31 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:31 pm EST)

Is anybody elses Activity Index dropping? Mine has dropped 3 ponts this week. I know it doesn't really matter. I was just wondering. :-)

Re: Activity Index | Report to Admin

By Lace; Yes We Did Nov 25th 2008 at 12:40 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:40 pm EST)

I'm holding steady at a 10. Haven't done anything since Nov 4th, so I have no idea why I still have a 10 lol.

Activity Index | Report to Admin

By ♥ dreamweaver "Grab A Mop" ♥ aka Vicki from Iowa Nov 25th 2008 at 12:33 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:33 pm EST)

Has anybody else Activity Index dropped? Mine has dropped 3 points this week. I know it doesn't really matter. I was just wondering. :-)

Re: Activity Index | Report to Admin

By Tracy in CT Nov 25th 2008 at 12:40 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:40 pm EST)

I hadn't thought about the activity index but your post prompted me to go look. I am a whopping 2 now.

:)

lol

Re: Activity Index | Report to Admin

By Lace; Yes We Did Nov 25th 2008 at 1:26 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:26 pm EST)

why in the heck am I still a 10, then, lol?

Maybe I'm getting some payback for only 114 of my calls ever registering on my dashboard :o)

Re: Activity Index | Report to Admin

By Mr. NOBEL President Obama & Vice-President Biden I Trust and RESPECT! Nov 25th 2008 at 1:46 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:46 pm EST)

You left before I could ask you that very question last night Lace! I seen I dropped from 10 to 4 so OF COURSE I had to check yours! Congratulations! :p

Re: Activity Index | Report to Admin

By IA for Obama ☮ Nov 25th 2008 at 12:42 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:42 pm EST)

Yep. From a 10 to a 7 last I checked.

I just checked again--down to a 6.

Re: Activity Index | Report to Admin

By Czarina JB in Arizona Nov 25th 2008 at 12:57 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:57 pm EST)

I am down to a 4 from a 10.

Re: Activity Index | Report to Admin

By ♥ dreamweaver "Grab A Mop" ♥ aka Vicki from Iowa Nov 25th 2008 at 1:02 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:02 pm EST)

I guess that is what happens when there is no activity. :-)

Wallpaper Update | Report to Admin

By Cris from Saint Louis, MO Nov 25th 2008 at 12:34 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 12:34 pm EST)

Hey everyone. Just updated the wallpaper archive with 3 new entries.

This is my newest effort - a site that compiles all the high quality Obama wallpapers in one place. I'll be adding new wallpapers each day.

Link

Here Comes | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Nov 25th 2008 at 1:05 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:05 pm EST)

john McCain on MSNBC.

Re: Here Comes | Report to Admin

By Dee in TN Nov 25th 2008 at 1:12 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:12 pm EST)

Why?? It kills me that just anybody can have a press conference. What does he have to say that is so important.

They just can't stand to let PE Obama have the spotlight without them infringing on his stage!

Where's Sarah?

Re: Here Comes | Report to Admin

By rich Nov 25th 2008 at 1:19 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:19 pm EST)

She's got a new look:

Link

Re: Here Comes | Report to Admin

By chabranate 4 OBAMA Nov 25th 2008 at 1:34 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:34 pm EST)

Hi Rich, is this really Sarah Palin?

Re: Here Comes | Report to Admin

By rich Nov 25th 2008 at 1:38 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:38 pm EST)

Nope.

Just me ribbing again (smile).

Re: Here Comes | Report to Admin

By chabranate 4 OBAMA Nov 25th 2008 at 1:53 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:53 pm EST)

Thanks, Sometimes you don't know what to expect. I thought to myself. Could she really be that media hungry? (smile)

Re: Here Comes | Report to Admin

By Peng in Gresham, OR Nov 25th 2008 at 1:19 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:19 pm EST)

This could be a kumbaya moment with McCain and his supporters. Or not, we'll soon see.

Re: Here Comes | Report to Admin

By Czarina Vero - who loves her new President - OBAMA!!!!! Nov 25th 2008 at 1:21 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:21 pm EST)

What did he say? Can someone fill me in? I'm at work.

Re: Here Comes | Report to Admin

By ♥ T. (a.k.a. Tanya) ♥ Nov 25th 2008 at 2:03 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:03 pm EST)

Me too -- no mention of it on CNN's website.

RealityChex.com | Report to Admin

By Marie from Fort Myers, FL Nov 25th 2008 at 1:13 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:13 pm EST)

If you missed the President-Elect's news conference today, it's up on RealityChex.com at the Link along with other news & opinion on the transition.

Re: RealityChex.com | Report to Admin

By Cilla...Currently living in Spain and lovin' it Nov 25th 2008 at 1:18 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:18 pm EST)

Today Barack Obama really did not say too much.

It will be a VERY LONG time before this country gets back on financial stability.

PE Obama will have another Presser tomorrow.

Re: RealityChex.com | Report to Admin

By Anthony in N.C. Nov 25th 2008 at 1:43 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:43 pm EST)

Priscilla,

I think he is being methodic when putting his message out about the economy. He first tells us about his intentions to put together a stimulus package to jumpstart the economy. Secondly, he tells us about the need to be fiscally responsible in developing a budget.

I suspect he will come out tomorrow to tie it all together and to assure us that we will get on top of this situation.

Re: RealityChex.com | Report to Admin

By Connie Obama (Not held hostage by polls or media) Nov 25th 2008 at 2:38 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:38 pm EST)

Yes, Anthony. PEO is as methodical and clear as he can be at this point. What gripes me are the repeated stupid questions from the press afterward!

"Can he be more spcific?" "What programs will you cut?" and on and on. Obama would be a fool to show ALL of his hand and not just because of the lobbyists. Anything he's specific about it seems Bush tries to coopt it.

The biggest reason is that these fools can't seem to get it thru their heads that:

1. PEO is NOT the POTUS yet, and
2. even with NO new spending by PEO we would still be facing unprecedented debt, thanks to Bushco.

The press questions I'll put up with, altho stupid. The analysis by the media whores I refuse to listen to; I know what I just heard. I guess they're trying to keep their jobs, but not with my help! Not one of them offers any solution, but plenty of criticism as if they're experts.

Rant over.

Re: RealityChex.com | Report to Admin

By Czarina JB in Arizona Nov 25th 2008 at 1:46 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:46 pm EST)

I think he said alot. Going through the budget line by line is a huge undertaking.

CNN Ordered to Rehire 110 Workers Fired for Belonging to a Union | Report to Admin

By “2010~Yes We Can!” Nov 25th 2008 at 1:23 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:23 pm EST)

CNN is the place for breaking news--unless it involves a courtruling ordering the media giant to rehire 110 workers who werefired by CNN because they were union members.

This report likely won’t be on CNN’s “Headline News,” but after five years, former workers at CNN have finally gained justice. In a decision made public today, an administrative law judge ordered the network to rehire 110 workers who were fired because they were union members. CNN also was ordered to recognize the workers’ unions, National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians-CWA (NABET-CWA) locals 31 and 11.

Link

Re: CNN Ordered to Rehire 110 Workers Fired for Belonging to a Union | Report to Admin

By Please delete my profile... Nov 25th 2008 at 1:34 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:34 pm EST)

this is good for our society! I hope they have to pay them for the five years they had no money!

Does this mean that Joe scarborough is out of a job?!

Re: CNN Ordered to Rehire 110 Workers Fired for Belonging to a Union | Report to Admin

By “2010~Yes We Can!” Nov 25th 2008 at 1:47 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:47 pm EST)

Local 31 President Carl Mayers says the workers deserve the credit for this victory:

It is a great victory for all union workers and would not have been possible without the hard work and courage of the members that were terminated by CNN as well as those that remained and never gave up hope.

Re: CNN Ordered to Rehire 110 Workers Fired for Belonging to a Union | Report to Admin

By Marbwi Nov 25th 2008 at 1:51 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:51 pm EST)

Most of the union-bashing in the media is sickening. I know the history of the unions. Unions are not anti-corporate. Some bad union leadership in the past does not negate the good things that they have done for workers.

If anyone wants to find out what non-union-companies are like, visit some of those anti-countries. The workers are treated like slaves.

Re: CNN Ordered to Rehire 110 Workers Fired for Belonging to a Union | Report to Admin

By ♥ T. (a.k.a. Tanya) ♥ Nov 25th 2008 at 2:17 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:17 pm EST)

I completely agree that the union-bashing in media as of late has been sickening. It will backfire, for sure.

Re: CNN Ordered to Rehire 110 Workers Fired for Belonging to a Union | Report to Admin

By Fama Nov 25th 2008 at 7:23 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 7:23 pm EST)

Well we have another great task before our campaign also to fight for the right for unions. In this fight we must be steadfast. I come from a family of autoworkers. All that foolish chatter about auto workers being wealthy is sheer folly. Let's make a quick drive-by the homes of autoworkers and the anti-union pundits in the media and let's gauge our argument based on that premise. What a great day it will be when every worker and professional is a member of a trade union.

Attention SCAMS! | Report to Admin

By Please delete my profile... Nov 25th 2008 at 1:26 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:26 pm EST)

I just recieved and email in my BO about giving money to people on this blog! It is ILLEGAL to use this BLOG for YOUR PERSONAL FUNDRAISER! It is ONLY to be used by the barackobama.com team for THEIR fundraisers by LAW!

I am angry for these SCAMS! DO NO GIVE MONEY TO PEOPLE ON THIS BLOG! THEY HAVE NO RIGHT TO even ASK!

GIVEe to a charity@! Not some scam who wants to go to the inaguration!

BIG 3 | Report to Admin

By Marbwi Nov 25th 2008 at 1:34 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:34 pm EST)

Henry Ford (July 30, 1863 – April 7, 1947) was the American founder of the Ford Motor Company and father of modern assembly lines used in mass production. His introduction of the Model T automobile revolutionized transportation and American industry. He was a prolific inventor and was awarded 161 U.S. patents.

Ford Motor Company ...was founded by Henry Ford and incorporated on June 16, 1903.

General Motors Corporation (GM) is a multinational automobile manufacturer founded in 1908 and headquartered in the United States.

Chrysler LLC is an American automobile manufacturer that has been producing automobiles since 1925.

-----

Why are we so mean to the car companies (and nice to the banks)?
Link

Russian ships in Venezuela | Report to Admin

By JEREMIAHWRIGHT from Orange Park, FL Nov 25th 2008 at 1:40 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:40 pm EST)

Aside from the alarming fact that one's activity indices might be dropping, is anybody paying attention to the fact that Russia is sending its navy to Venezuela to conduct military exercises?

Re: Russian ships in Venezuela | Report to Admin

By Marbwi Nov 25th 2008 at 1:56 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:56 pm EST)

...The deployment of the naval squadron is widely seen as a demonstration of Kremlin anger over the U.S. decision to send warships to deliver aid to Georgia after its battles with Russia, and over U.S. plans for a European missile-defense system.

AP story
Link

PS..Can someone explain to me why the vitriol was ramped up between us and Venezuela? I mean, we now trade with Communist China/Vietnam, right?

Re: Russian ships in Venezuela | Report to Admin

By Kestrel Nov 25th 2008 at 2:04 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:04 pm EST)

There's a high correlation between resource rich countries that stop trading in US dollars and the countries we bomb or threaten (Iraq, Iran, Syria, Venezuala). Also, watch John Pilger's "War on Democracy" on google video. That helps explain why the US (i.e. corporations) act aggressively towards Venezuala and Bolivia. Link

Re: Russian ships in Venezuela | Report to Admin

By Kestrel Nov 25th 2008 at 1:58 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:58 pm EST)

I've read about Russian ships going to Venezuala for weeks in alternative media. I figure it's checkmate for the U.S. trying to encircle Russia with NATO countries and building up our fleet in the Persian Gulf. If the US tries to enforce an embargo on Iran, I wonder if Russia will try to do the same to us.

Re: Russian ships in Venezuela | Report to Admin

By Livvy Nov 25th 2008 at 2:20 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:20 pm EST)

yep..Everybody's got to stop just paying lip service to the UN and actually make it a viable binding institution. I love how countries whine to the UN and then go off and act as though it doesn't exist which endangers other global citizens lives. Otherwise dismantle it and stop pretending

Re: BIG 3 | Report to Admin

By AZgrammy-'O'-wing Nov 25th 2008 at 1:54 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:54 pm EST)

What makes me so sick about the "Quickly-over-the-weekend" bail out of CitiGroup:
Sunday's $20 billion rescue of Citibank bailout benefited whom ????

Abu Dhabi buys $7.5 billion stake in Citigroup

Published: November 28, 2007

A falling dollar, a growing pile of oil revenues and an interest in not being overshadowed by neighboring Dubai's increasingly high profile spurred Abu Dhabi to break with its low-key investing tradition to purchase a $7.5 billion stake in Citigroup.
... secretive Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, the LARGEST SOVEREIGN WEALTH FUND IN THE WORLD, with assets estimated at $650 billion.

So, Abu Dhabi's $7.5 billion stake in Citigroup, purchased just ONE YEAR AGO in November, has been totally propped-up and Reimbursed by us, the vulnerable stupid tax payers!

My little IRA has lost &4,826.in Value so far this year...
Where's my bailout?
Or your bailout from bankruptcy??
Or from your loss of employment?

Re: BIG 3 | Report to Admin

By Kestrel Nov 25th 2008 at 2:09 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:09 pm EST)

"It is well enough that people of the nation do not understand our banking and monetary system, for if they did, I believe there would be a revolution before tomorrow morning."

~Henry Ford

challenge: explain how the Federal Reserve system works to a friend Link

ideology debate | Report to Admin

By Marbwi Nov 25th 2008 at 1:35 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:35 pm EST)

Does Obama Really Plan To Govern from the Center-Right?

Should progressives beware? Has Barack Obama suckered them into supporting a President who will really govern from the "center-right"? The short answer is no...

read on
Link

problem for 'virgin' congressmen | Report to Admin

By Marbwi Nov 25th 2008 at 1:37 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:37 pm EST)

New Congress members meet big-money donors
Link

Lobbyists meet Democratic freshmen --video here
Link

opinions here
Link

Re: problem for 'virgin' congressmen | Report to Admin

By rich Nov 25th 2008 at 1:45 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:45 pm EST)

"Just say NO to Drugs"

... and to Oil, etc.

Re: problem for 'virgin' congressmen | Report to Admin

By Marbwi Nov 25th 2008 at 2:00 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:00 pm EST)

Are you referring to the old-style congressmen(Hoyer) addiction to lobbyist money. These freshmen should follow Barack Obama's lead and beg for campaign donations directly from the public.

Re: problem for 'virgin' congressmen | Report to Admin

By rich Nov 25th 2008 at 2:08 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:08 pm EST)

Agreed.

My No line was basically like what happens when the freshman class comes in and they get bombarded with all the distractions of a large school system.

Saying NO to offers is simply the most effective way of telling others that you're not for sale.

Amazing Place Amazing Grace | Report to Admin

By ◎Desert Dove Dan◎ Nov 25th 2008 at 1:38 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:38 pm EST)

I love my O-blog family!

Link

music medley:

Leann Rhimes
Bergevin Brothers
Aaron Neville
Steven Tyler

Re: Amazing Place Amazing Grace | Report to Admin

By ♥ T. (a.k.a. Tanya) ♥ Nov 25th 2008 at 2:09 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:09 pm EST)

Dan -- we love you BACK! :o)

Re: Amazing Place Amazing Grace | Report to Admin

By Livvy Nov 25th 2008 at 2:24 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 2:24 pm EST)

yip we do DDD. Sophia is a beautiful video. love that shot of her on Dad asleep and the one with mum cuddling her. I'm off to work, take care everyone

Summers & Geithner | Report to Admin

By JEREMIAHWRIGHT from Orange Park, FL Nov 25th 2008 at 1:52 pm EST (Updated Nov 25th 2008 at 1:52 pm EST)

This fronm a conservative publication...

"Mr. Obama’s Economic Advisers"
November 24, 2008

"In introducing his economic team on Monday, President-elect Barack Obama said that he had chosen leaders who would offer sound judgment and fresh thinking. Was that an order?

In various high-level government positions, Timothy Geithner, Mr. Obama’s choice for Treasury secretary, and Lawrence Summers, his choice for director of the National Economic Council, each have demonstrated a capacity for good judgment and good ideas.

Both served in the Clinton Treasury Department — Mr. Summers as secretary and deputy secretary and Mr. Geithner as a top aide — where they won high marks for helping manage the fallout of that era’s crises, including the Mexican peso devaluation, the Asian financial meltdown, the Russian bond default and the collapse of the hedge fund Long Term Capital Management.

Both men, however, have played central roles in policies that helped provoke today’s financial crisis. Mr. Geithner, currently the president of the Federal Reserve Bank in New York, also has helped shape the Bush administration’s erratic and often inscrutable responses to the current financial meltdown, up to and including this past weekend’s multibillion-dollar bailout of Citigroup.

Given that history, the question that most needs answering is not whether Mr. Geithner and Mr. Summers are men of talent — obviously they are — but whether they have learned from their mistakes, and if so, what.

We are not asking for moral mea culpas. But unless they recognize their past mistakes, there is little hope that they can provide the sound judgment and leadership that the country needs to dig out of this desperate mess.

As treasury secretary in 2000, Mr. Summers championed the law that deregulated derivatives, the financial instruments — a k a toxic assets — that have spread the financial losses from reckless lending around the globe. He refused to heed the critics who warned of dangers to come.

That law, still on the books, reinforced the false belief that markets would self-regulate. And it gave the Bush administration cover to ignore the ever-spiraling risks posed by derivatives and inadequate supervision.

Mr. Summers now will advise a president who has promised to impose rational and essential regulations on chaotic financial markets. What has he learned?