The "Greatest Show on Earth" did not disappoint on the first day of the new Month!!!
The day began, for me, taking a look at the current edition of Newsweek Magazine headling a Jonathan Alter er piece. Newsweek, of course, will go on under its new owner, Sidney Harman--who happens to be the husband of the California Congresswoman Jane Harman. Jonathan Alter talks It shows how Obama has been characterized as a terrorist-coddling, wall street loving, godless, Foreign-Born, Muslim--when in fact none of it is true. Between the Afghan Surge, drone attacks, rejecting nationalization of banks and pushing to get monies back from GM and Chrysler, the record is one of a comitted capitalist. What is now prevalent is a testanment to the power of the Right Wing Noise Machine having been as effective as it has been. I nearly fell off my Chair when Mitch McConnel noted that he took the President at his word that he was not a Muslim. This is not as bad as Rush noting that Imam Hussein Obama is here and now!!! Does Mitch McConnell live in the same America or is it a different America? I wonder.
As this nonsense over the President continues, there is of course the true realities. Although Mr. Obama declared the end of combat operations in Iraq, the fact remains that the United States will continue to be engaged there. The Republicans wanted the President to thank President Bush for the "victory" in Iraq. The fact remains that the War was wrong, the premise was wrong and the Country is worst off because of this ill-conceived war that cost over 800 Billion Dollars. Iraq is a broken, shattered country that is under the thumb of the major regional powers. Yet, in the fantasy world that is the Republican Party today, they want the World to believe otherwise that America won.
The same amen crowd that pushed the rightenousness of the Iraq War is also behind the Mosque hysteria. If one visits the Keep America Safe website, all they talk about is the Ground Zero Mosque. It is as if they have nothing else to talk about. Liz Cheney's crusade against the Mosque seems to have been her group's raison d'etre. That's fine because that is her right to exercise her right of free speech. But, her paranoia surprises me becuase she was part of the gang that was in charge of US Foreign Policy during the Bush Years. She claims to be an expert on the Middle East, yet seems to have no clue whatsoever and seems to want to portray Muslims as animals. The only word I could possibly find to explain her action is simply this: Racist. For someone who is a lawyer, it seems as if she has no clue about the Constitution, the Bill of Rights and the history of this great land. She apparently needs to re-read history. That seems to be out of fashion, though, in the fantasyland of The New Republican Party today.
The Greatest Show on Earth that is the US Election Season continues to be ever more surprising, though. Joe "Wacko" Miller seems to be the gift that keeps on giving. His pronoucements about the Feds simply pulling out of Alaska is perfectly understandable. But, it seems as if he has to explain to the people of Alaska how he intends to replace all the Federal Funds. What if some of us around the country would want all the monies we sent to Alaska to come back? How would Alaska propose to pay that back as Oil begins to run out? Other candidates also seem to be on this wacko trip that seems to be never ending--but it sure is fun to watch!!! There is also the issue of the repeal of "Obamacare". I have been trying to find out what Mr. Miller's solution is counter the actions of regional hospital chains like Sutter Health in Northern California that charge 3 times the normal rate for a normal procedure and even the mightly insurance companies can't say anything about it.
Back in California, Fiorina and Boxer had their debate. It was a contentious one because the race is one that is supposedly a toss-up right now. What I found quite ironic was how Fiornia criticized how her tenure at HP was brought out and used as a political football. Someone had to remind her that politics is a high-touch contact sport where nothing is off the table--with the exception of one's family. California is a Democratic-Majority State. The fact that the polling is fairly close is a reflection of the national mode right now. But, polls are polls. I will not be paying attention to polls--just the facts Fiorina's campaign, though, had already put out a Press Release on the Campaign and Boxer's was yet to do so. So, the publicilty machine has been in full gear and will continue to be so.
There is of course the case of the birthers. Terrence Lakin, an Army Officer, has refused his deployment orders on the grounds that President Obama is foreign-born. I hope the Army will nail him to the wall and Court Martial him. Furthermore, I hope that the Air Force will call back to Active Duty General McInerney, the retired Air Force General who has apparently filed papers in support of Colonel Lakin and court marshall him too. It is one thing to have buffons like Steve King use the hallowed halls of Congress to push their twisted agends. I am sure that the Army will do what needs to be done and I'll let the course of Justice run its' course.
The big elephant in the room is the Economy. I was gratified to see the broad gains in the market yesterday. Yet, the economy continues to remain fragile. The question is whether voters will embrace the current path or give the Republicans another shot. I continue to believe that the election will be a lot closer than handicappers like Charlie Cook and others are calling it. It will be fascinating, though.
I caught a glimpse of a news conference by the Heritage Foundation's Michael Franc. He is the Government Relations VP for the Foundation. I am well aware of some of the support the Heritage Foundation receives. However, I have been of the view of that any idea that would help provide a roadmap is absolutely crucial to be looked at. I would be analyzing the report annouced by Heritage and providing guidance on it as part of OV's Election Watch Series over the ensuing weeks.
I welcome the Heritage Report because it is how things should be. There was one thing that Michael Franc also noted that I also agree with: incremental change is simply not acceptable. There needs to be the courage to truly work to transform for the greater good.
This past week has been amazing. According to the pundits, the election is already over and we should all just pack up and go home. John Boehner, I suppose, is probably beginning to gear up to take over the speakership and all the key "ranking members" of the house are getting ready to be called "Mr. Chairman". But, here is a newsflash, though: This is July 21. Elections are not going to be held till November. So, to borrow a phrase from Mark Twain, the reports of the death of Democrats is highly exaggerated
The Republicans are truly emboldened. Eric Cantor came out last week and boldly predicted that the House will be taken over by the Republicans. Monday’s Front Page story in the Wall Street Journal talked about how the GOP can also take control of the Senate too. A number of the US Senate campaigns are rough going. Barack Obama’s old seat is one. But, it appears that Charlie Crist in Florida has gotten his second wind and seems to be charting a new path after the Marco Rubio juggernaut forced him out of the Party. The President’s Spokesman, Robert Gibbs, added fuel to the fire during his appearance on Meet the Press two weeks ago when he noted that there is a chance that the Democrats will lose. I viewed Robert Gibbs pronouncement as a wakeup call to all Democrats to pull together. I am with Joe Biden that Democrats will surprise the Country in November
When the May unemployment numbers was announced on Friday, I initially jumped with joy when I heard the figure of around 450,000. But, then, my initial enthusiasm turned to disappointment when I saw that 411,000 of them were temporary Census Workers. Furthermore, I saw downward revisions of the Job Numbers which caused further concerns and caused the Dow Jones to drop.
There are some realities that has to be noted. The Fed is pretty much tapped out. It is beginning to gradually wind down its' purchases of mortgage securities. Consumer spending will tapper off and the level of Government debt is so high that future action by Governments to jump start another recession is going to be a major challenge. One of the statistics that really bothered me was the report by the IMF noting that the U.S. structural deficit will be 6% of the GDP. Despite a trillion dollars of stimulus being spent, the U.S. economy is yet to be on the sound footing necessary to sustain a long-term sustained growth that will bring the jobs back. Jobs continue to be lost. I also question the viability of Europe's 1 Trillion Dollar "rescue" package. The Greek Debt, The French Debt, the Spanish debt and the British debt are part of the problem and sovereign debt ratings continue to be downgraded. The Euro just dropped below US $ 1.20. That's why all Governments are now talking austerity. Although I welcome the committment by Governments to tackle deficits, the question yet to be answered is whether If the faucet of support is shut off, what will happen next
A statement from a group calling itself "Guardians of a Free Republic" has sent some 30 Governors letters apparently demanding that they relinquish their offices. Supposedly, they draw their divine inspiration from Gandhi and Dr. King and have supposedly peaceful purposes. When I saw this, my reaction was : yaaaaaaaaaaaaah right!!!
The rise of such groups is a manifestation of a anti-government & anti tax movement that is starting to take a very scary turn. Although I understand the intentions of the so-called States rights Attorney Generals to file suite, what they also need to understand is that such conflicts adds fuel to the fire of such organizations. The Tea Party crowd is a more extreme example of this. The Hutari fools and the rest of the more radical elements of the militia movement also are a manifestation of this anti-tax, anti-government movement that seems to have found itself a wonderful advocate in Fox News and its personalities
I have been following the Republican talking points throughout the week. The basic contention by the Republicans was outlined by Senator Brown in the Republican Weekly Address on Saturday:
The Republicans have been on a continued warpath to circumvent Barack Obama's agenda at every turn. The healthcare debate has shown that all they are interested in an outright power grab to implement their narrow idelogical vision on the country. They are opposed to anything that remotely insures that the average person has a fighting chance. Paul Ryan's plan to replace Medicare with vouchers is just one of those extreme examples.
While the Republicans have continued to dominate the airwaves and win the public relations war, the real world goes on. There was a spike in unemployment not withstanding the 51,000 hires for the Census temporary jobs. The "real" unemployment rate stands at 16.8 Percent, on par with Spain. What Republicans should take notice of is a speech by the US Chamber of Commerce President Thomas Donohue. He spoke and made five key points
A very good friend turned me on to the National Priorities Project Website. With the Continued challenges we face in America, I was fascinated by what they had done. There is a cool feature that actualy analyzes what could have been done if the monies spent would have somehow been routed towards long-term sustainable development. I realize that some will question the analysis and the rationale. But the implications are staggering:
Tuesday November 3 was another election day in America. It was an election day to decide some governorships, a key mayoral election and very intersting race in the New York 23rd Congressional District. All the pundits have been pounding the pavements about how this was a referendum on President Obama and how the people have begun to speak up and be frustruated about the direction of the country. The Tea Party folks, the 9/12 Movement, Freedom Works and the Republicans are all celebrating tonight.
Well, it has been a good night for the Republican Party. They won two key Governorships. They have won other key statewide offices in Virginia. Yet, the national implications of these races is way overstated. The mainstream media (and yes that includes Fox) will be hard at work spinning this as a major setback for the White House. The reality is otherwise, though
I have been making the rounds of the Sunday Talk Shows. NBC and ABC had Tim Geitner on and CBS' Face the Nation had the President on as well: (available at http://www.cbsnews.com).
As I listened to the Face The Nation Interview, I was glad that Bob Schieffer brought up Mexico. I have regarded Mexico as the soft underbelly that is indeed a major threat to the security of the United States. I did also find Meet the Press quite insightful in explaining in layman's terms how the plan is supposed to work. As I listened to all the shows, the central message I heard was that the Obama Adminstration views the strategies on both the economy and Afghanistan was on track. Time will only tell
I was witness to another busy and hectic week on the political front. There was of course the Budget the Obama Adminstration has sent up to the U.S. Congress. The U.S. Congress has started to write the legislation to get the process moving forward. It was also a week that saw the President throw the gauntlet down to the Republicans in the House to produce their own alternative. They did produce one. From the review so far, though, there are no numbers to back the so called roadmap they have proposed. I will be anxious to see what they have to say on this next week.
As I was witness to the debate, I was laughing at how the President seemed to be getting it from both sides. On the one hand, I saw the so-called right (or conservatives) in the country noting how the President was taking the country down the path to socialism and communism. I was really laughing when I read Dick Morris' comments and then visited his new YouTube Channel he had just laid out. On the other hand, I was also just as amazed and laughing at how the so-called left (or liberals) were keen to attack the President. Paul Krugman's admonition about the President's Public-Private Partnership as "cash for trash" was just one example. They are noting that the clintonites will help drive a centrist economic policy that will leave many out in the cold
In my almost daily columns/comments on the Economy, I had thought about the calamity as a Tsunami. With a Tsunami, there is at least a chance to see Sunshine. However, I think the better term for it is a Winter Storm. I continue to wonder when we will see sunshine.
On Wednesday, the bleeding continued. Cisco Systems, the leading network gear maker, missed the numbers. Alcatel-Lucent continued its' downward slide which has been on-going for a number of years. Disney missed then it came out with its numbers and annouced jobs cuts totaling some 400 workers at the ABC unit. Earlier in the week, Electronic Arts annouced a job cut and delay in new games
The world is right now fascinated with Davos. The rich, the famous and the powerful are all there in paradise talking about the world and all the problems. There is enough being said by all pundits which will speak for itself on Davos. But, two key things occured which I wanted to note:
1) Turkey's Prime Minister Edrogan stormed out of a discussion with Shimon Peres during discusisons on Gaza. Edrogan was given a minute by David Ignathius of the Washington Post to rebute a lengthy comment by Shimon Peres. I think the gesture by Mr. Edrogan must be taken seriously by Israel. It shows the frustration with Israel and the fact that as Amr Mousa said, Israel "does not listen". I was quite disappointed by David Ignathius when he did not grant equal time during the discussions. It seems to me that Dinner could have waited
The first result is in: Dixville Notch, New Hampshire is the first in the nation to cast its vote for Barrack Obama. Although this one was lopsided, I think the results will be a lot closer. The candidates have been at it and at it hard. Right now, I am awaiting to see John McCain to appear at a rally in Phoenix. CNN is reporting that he will be going on to Colorado and New Mexico later on today to gain that final vote. It appears that Senator Obama may pound the pavement as well. I suppose if I were in their shoes I would do th same. I was also sorry to hear that Senator Obama's "Toot", her Grandmother, passed away. May her soul rest in peace.
I had a chance to meet my local candidate for Congress. He was working to canvass his local neighborhood to urge folks to get out to vote. He also had a GOTV operation at his campaign headquarters which was in full swing. It was great to see Democracy in action
Throughout Sunday, I checked out what both campaigns were up to. I have had a blast. Both candidates, it seems, will continue to go all out until the very end. I am kind of saddened that it is all ending. I wonder what SNL, Letterman and all the rest of them will find once this is all over. As we have learnt to live with 24-Hr Newstainment, now we have entered the edge of the permanent campaign.
Whatever happens on November 4, all of us have a lot to do to help bring America back from the edge of the abyss. Tomorrow does start November 5. I hope it is a brighter tomorrow for the sake of us all
As the campaign draws to a close, I wanted to get a sense of what the conservatives thought about. I read about Bill Kristol's opposition to John McCain. But, being the loyal conservative he is, he went on the Daily Show and spoke up for John McCain. I thought he was as effective an advocate for Senator McCain and the Conservative cause as any. After Senator Obama's interview, I thought equal time was in order:
Barack Obama for President, even though he is voting for Senator McCain!!! . I figured with all the serious "stuff" we have talked about, I figured a little humor won't hurt. I nearly fell off my chair in laughter when I listened to this. Enjoy!!
The candiddates are going all out. I would not have it any different. Senator Obama found time on Wednesday to get on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart. Here it goes:
As I thought about Barack Obama's informercial, I really thought about America. I really thought about how he was indeed America and lived the life that is America. The America that Sarah Palin and John McCain talk about is not the America that I have come to know. As I heard Sarah the attack dog yet again, I got another interesting bit of news: Senator McCain was the head of an organization that gave $ 500,000 to an institute founded by the same Rashid Khalidi. If he was OK then, then why is he all of a sudden a bad guy now? I am not smart enough to explain it.
Now, as I write this, Barack Obama and Bill Clinton have appeared at a late night rally in Florida. I also caught a glimpse of Jimmy Smits who was on West Wing and played the last Democratic President. The campaign depicted on the West Wing in large measure was played out during the past twenty months. Barack Obama just finished speaking. Bill Clinton, as always, made one of his ever-eloquent speeches as he has ever made. The two key things that resonated with me was the need to understand and the committment to do what was right. Barack Obama passed the test when he decided on Joe Biden and how he reacted to the financial crisis. He consulted before he came out with his reaction to it. So, the stark choices are indeed there
CNN is right now reporting that Ted Stevens, the Senior Senator from Alaska, has been found guilty of ALL charges. This is a slam dunk!!!! The government got him. This is what America is about. The law is supreme no matter what. We ought to be proud of that. I am just amazed that Senator Stevens allowed himself to be subjected to this. I am sorry for him and his family. But this is a reaffirmation of America and it should be a cause for celebration.
On a side note, I just read quite an obiturary on the Bush II years by Ed Rollins. He once again reminds us what a historic election this is and what a colossal failure Bush Jr. Is. I think the only guy that truly does not recognize it is W himself. He destroyed his party, almost destroyed the country in the name of power. At least towards the end he has had enough sense to put grown-ups back in charge. The question in my mind is how big the win is going to be? Senator Obama will need all the help he can get!!!
As the new week starts in America, I ran across this that Ron Howard put together. I thought it to be funny. There are 8 more days til Election Day in America:
Senator McCain has been on CNN and MSNBC. He has been the sunny optimist. I commend him for it. Right now, from what I have seen, it seems to me that Senator McCain believes that he is going to win. I think that they are wrong. Senator McCain truly was on the offense especially on NBC. As I watching his interview with Tom Brokaw, I saw the fighter in John McCain. Senator Obama must not rest. If Senator Obama thinks that he has it in the bag, he is dreaming!!!
Now, Senator McCain did push his standard arguments about Senator Obama being a Socialist, inexperienced and out of the mainstream. One of the things that struck me was the manner in which he made . Governor Palin, according to Senator McCain, has more executive experience that Senator Obama. Senator McCain fails to realize just what Senator Obama has been able to achieve over the last two years alone. Whatever one may think of Senator Obama's policies and outlook, the organizational prowess and the discipline shown is quite an achievement that will be the subject of case studies for years to come. Senator Obama's cool demeanor is also beginning to be the stuff of legends in my view. The man did not flinch in the midst of all the attacks by the rightwing. I was frankly disappointed in Senator McCain today when he did not repudiate Rush Limbaugh when he "claimed" that General Powell's endorsement was because of race. Rush has no shame. Rush and his buddies on the right wing talk circuit (Michael Savage, Laura Ingram and others) have done much to stiffle dissent and discussion more than anything else. They have the First Amendment with them. I will never advocate them to be stiffled. They have to accept the fact that there are others who love and appreciate America just as much as they do. They seem not to understand that. Unfortunately, I have a profound problem with that
I can't help but be worried. As I continue to write about our world, I want to remain hopeful. But, the bad news continues coming in. The Dow lost over 300 points on Friday. As America continues to be in the midst of a Presidential Campaign, the world seems to be falling apart. BBC is reporting on a very disturbing development in Colombia threatens to undermine all that seems to have been achieved in the so-called war on drugs. A number of Army colonels have been sacked because they apparently kidnapped homeless men and then killed them to secure body counts and in turn promotions. Colombia was the same country, of course, that pulled off the release of Ingrid Betancourt and others using the emblems of the International commitee for the Red Cross. I view it as a bothersome development because it will undermine the very perilous nature of achievements made in the war on drugs that the world seems to be losing. Look at what is going on in Mexico. I regard Uribe as the ultimate teflon, though. I think he would muddle through as he has through other crisis.
The more worrisome development, though, is the killing of foreigners in the center of the Afghan capital, Kabul. Afghanistan is on fire. Karzai is useless and is a lost case. I am heartened by Joe Klein's comments on Time.com about Barack Obama's views. According to Klein, Barack Obama (and General Petreaus) are in favor of negotiations with the Taliban. I would be interested in any alternative anyone could offer. Right now, I see none
Bill Bratton, the LA Police Chief, co-wrote an article about the possiblity of a terrorist attack against financial institutions and how it would sway the election. I also have been concerned about media reports about Osama Bin Laden favoring McCain. It was exactly this kind of hype that helped undermine John Kerry in 2004. I believe in the American People, though. I think that the American People will be wise enough to choose what they think is right. I am confident that I am right. Osama can do whatever he wants. He is a decpicable character that is not even worth being mentioned. This does not mean that he should be forgotten. It is far from it!!!
When I saw this earlier today, It simply floored me. I have written about honoring Senator McCain and his service to America. For Senator McCain's sake, I hope that what was discussed here is simply wrong. But, when the issue of being pals with terrorists comes up, one has to wonder. What about Obama being a "socialist"? This is terrifying, if true:
John McCain seems to love Bill Ayers. He and his running mate were on NBC Nightly News. John McCain again blasted Senator Obama for the Ayers Ties. For a tired campaign, it seems as if he has nothing better to say. I am sorry for Senator McCain and what the Republican Party has come to. The folks who are fleeing the ship are quite impressive. When Scott McClellan came out for Senator Obama, that should tell the country something extra ordinary. What about the Goldwater family turning on Senator Goldwater's successor?
Senator McCain finally came down to blasting the Bush Administration today in a Washington Times interview. When asked about spending $150,000 on clothes, McCain's comment was "...she needed clothes..". But, it is too little too late. All polls, so far, shows that Barack Obama in a commanding lead. I say, so what? Obama can't be complacent and has to fight all the way to the end. There is still twelve days left. Obama's Prime Time Special is on next week. Obama has to seal the deal next week. We'll see
In my quest to quench the thirst I have continued to develop, I want to continue to understand. One of the alternative views has been Professor Choamsky. I am always overwhelmed when I hear him speak. Here are his thoughts on the election (courtesy of the Real News):
John McCain has been talking about the fact that he's at a funding disadvantage. Apparently, his campaign is running low on cash. Now, the Republican National Committee and a whole host of 527's are doing quite a bidding for him. So, this notion of somehow feeling sorry for the McCain campaign running out of cash during the final two weeks of the campaign is just rubbish. This is just a simple, yet petty reason why I am not feeling sorry for the Republicans: The Republican National Committee spent $ 155,000 on clothes for Governor Palin. When I heard that this morning, I said to myself--good grief. So much For Governor Palin speaking for the "regular folks". It is sad. But it shows how truly out ot touch the Republicans are.
As the campaign draws to a close, I eagerly await the destruction of the Republicans. I am anxious to see the back of Elizabeth Dole, Mitch McConnel, Norm Coleman, Gordon Smith and John Snunu. I am sure that they will survive and make a fine living going to the American Enterprise Institute and the Heritage Foundation. So, no one should feel sorry for them. I won't. So far, it looks like that Mary Landreau is in a strong position to win re-election in Louisiana. I am also fascinated by the Udall Cousins in Colorado and New Mexico. From the reports I have seen, they have a solid shot to winning their Senate seats. Both made some truly courageous moves and spoke up against the war when it was truly unpopular. It will an interesting Congress in 2009
General Powell went on the record earlier on U.S. National Television. He has endorsed Barack Obama for President. I found his near repudiation of the right-wing shift of the Republican Party especially pointed. Senator McCain's judgement was the key question, as I saw it. As I listened to General Powell, what especially drove me was how General Powell addressed the question on Muslims on in America:
The Endorsement floodgates have opened up. The LA Times and the Chicago Tribune have come out in favor of Barack Obama. To that, one has to add the Washington Post. John McCain just snatched a major endorsement from a newspaper in Tampa, Florida. The issue I have with it whether it all matters or not. At least there is a realization that things have to truly change and change now.
The big one, though, is Colin Powell. He is scheduled to appear on NBC's Meet the Press later on today. I read about speculation that Colin Powell may endorse Barack Obama. I am certain that Barack Obama will welcome the endorsement. I am one who also respects Colin Powell. To me, though, the war in Iraq and his speech at the UN put a big dent in his reputation, though. Secretary Powell should have not agreed and should have resigned then in my view. He should have taken the principled stance that Cyrus Vance took when he resigned after the decision to launch the hostage rescue mission in 1980. Not withstanding my profound concern in this regard, I salute Colin Powell for his 40 years of service to the United States and think that his unique insight will continue to be valuable to all. I wonder what the world could have been like if George W. Bush would have listened to Colin Powell vs. Dick Cheney and the neo-con cabal running U.S. Foreign Policy
In all the seriousness of Presidential campaigns, a little humour never hurts. I was hunting around and finally found the clip of Senator McCain and his appearance on David Letterman. Whatever his strategic mistakes may have been (and we'll all have a chance to talk about it), he proved to me that he's enough of a standup guy. It was good enough when he said to David Letterman and the world, "...I screwed up...". Here it is:
The daily barrage of polls and analysis continues. History can be a harbinger of things to come. It is important to note that some of the poll analysis noted that in 1980, 2000 & 2004, the Republicans candidates were down in the polls. Yet, the same candidates went on to win. So, who knows frankly what is going to happen. If the Democrats think they have it in the bag, they are frankly smoking crack or something!!??!! They have to work as hard as they can to earn every vote. Because the Republicans will be just as aggressive in their attacks.
Governor Palin continues his "culture war" against the Democrats. As I caught a brief glimpse of her on CNN, she talked about how "unpatrotic" Barack Obama is. I continue to be sickened by the ugly tone of the McCain campaign. John McCain and Sarah Palin have perpetuated a lynch mob mentality that in my view does a profound sense of disservice to the country. They are trying to be able to perpetuate a case of trumped up charges of voter fraud and the supposed alleged ties to ACORN. Interestingly enough, the Atlantic Monthly reports that John McCain spoke at an ACORN rally two years ago. The diversion being done is simply sickening. The fact that even one person is calling for Senator Obama to be killed is absolutely wrong. Senator McCain claimed that the same crap being said at his campaign is being said at Obama rallies. That's an absolute lie. Senator McCain simply makes himself look like an idiot by trying to shift the debate. The McCain campaign is all over the map. One day Senator Obama is a family man. One day Senator Obama is a risk. I am trying to figure out which is it
The Troopergate report on Governor Palin's Troopergate scandal has been released by teh Alaska Legislature. The report has been adopted unanimously by the bipartisan Alaskan Legislative Council. It found that Governor Palin abused her power and violated ethics rules when firing the Alaskan Public Safety Commisioner. The push to have the ex-brother-in-law was a contributing factor. It states that, "..."Governor Palin knowingly permitted a situation to continue where impermissible pressure was placed on several subordinates in order to advance a personal agenda..." The full report is available at Palin Report . The report was adopted unanimously by the legislative council.
Now, the McCain-Palin spinmasters have been hard at work already saying that the report shows that she "acted within the law". They also noted that it was ran by Obama supporters. The first thing the fools in the McCain-Palin campaign seem to forget is that there is the issue of judgement. This is what they have partly based their campaign on. Who is the fool now? If this is how she is going to act as Vice President, the Constitution and laws be damned!!! Governor Palin talked judgement and outlook today during a rally in Missouri. She accused Senator Obama of putting ambition above country when he was in Iraq meeting with the Iraqi Leadership. According to the Washington Times Story ( Washington Times On ObamaSenator Obama advised the Iraqi leadership that the status of forces agreement had to have Congressional Approval. Governor Palin said that she was "frusturated" that the report did not come out sooner. I wonder why the Washington Times sat on the story as long as it did. I also wonder who these so called Campaign aides are who "confirmed" the story
We're truly living in extraordinary times. I laughed when I read about Larry Sabato's characterization of the economic policies of Barack Obama and John McCain. Larry Sabato noted that one of them is living in Disneyworld and one is living in Disneyland. Right now, the U.S. is bankrupt. The U.S. is Ten Trillion (that is Trillion with a "T") Dollars in Debt. The number is so high that the U.S. National Debt Clock ran out of digits. With the way committments are being made right now, the debt will only go through the roof.
As markets are falling and wealth is being wiped off, there is no substantive discussion of the issues. The McCain-Palin ticket continued the pathetic path of guilt by association again today with the release of the new video on association with Ayers. The country and the world need enlightened leadership and a renewed sense of purpose to give folks hope. All they have to talk about is Bill Ayers. They are even going to talk about Jeremiah Wright. "Someone" at a rally "begged" Senator McCain to take it to Senator Obama. "Guilt By Association" may come back to haunt both Senator McCain and Governor Palin. For instance, Governor Palin has apparently attended Alaskan Independence Party Convention with all their rather "interesting" views
All the polls and the pundits are pointing to an Obama landslide. The front page story in today's New York Times did a rather interesting analysis of this very fact. Most notable Republican Senate Republican Incumbents seem to be in trouble right now. The question right now is: how long? If Barack Obama takes things for granted, I will remind him of one name: Tom Bradley. I was there and saw how a 35% poll advantage withered away on election day. I hope that the Democrats do not become overconfident. Furthermore, do not count the Republicans out. John McCain will continue to fight to the end. The nasty attacks yesterday by both Cindy McCain and Sarah Palin will go on. There has to be a line drawn when participants in such rallies call Barack Obama a terrorist or even other more radical measures which I won't even go into.
The biggest question is if the Democrats win and win big. The concerns raised has been the "lack" of a check on unlimited power. The Republicans had unchecked power for six years and led the country to ruin. Will the Democrats be more responsible? I hope so. No matter who wins, I think they would work to govern more responsbily than what has happened to us over the past eight years
The debate ended a while back. The whole world will be weighing in through polls and the analysts will have their say. I think Senators Obama and McCain held their own. Although some may disagree, a number of key points Senator McCain raised during his comments which I disagree with.
Iraq is the defining issue right now. It has been trumped by the economy for sure. Many of the questions centered on it. However, the war in Iraq is draining American Resources. Senator McCain noted that "..we are winning in Iraq.." and that the Iraq surge principles should be applied to Afghanistan. First of, Senator McCain is absolutely wrong on the surge. He forgot to mention the local mercenaries and the ethnic cleansing that has occurred. No one seems to talk about it. I also think Senator McCain must realize that even Secretary Rice noted the long difficult road that Iraq has been in her remarks during an award ceremony for Ambassador Crocker and General Petraus. When General Petraus himself has noted that he won't declare victory in Iraq, I wonder why Senator McCain continues to push this fiction of "winning". As for applying the surge to Afghanistan, I commented on the thoughts by the Senior British Military Commander in Afghanistan earlier. Tom Brokaw did raise it with him. Senator McCain went back to his "stock" answer of applying the surge principles. Afghans, Iraqis and Westerners are dying every day. The dying and the suffering has to stop. There has to be a better way
Sean Hannity has a weekly show called "Hannity's America" on Fox News. Apparently, according to the New York Times story, Obama got the nth degree. Hannity blased him for his ties to "radicals" and talked about again Obama being a Muslim.
I have periodically listened to Sean Hannity on his syndicated Radio Show, have read his work and have seen him on Fox. He has done some commendable work in support of Veterans and I regard him as caring American. I do however draw the line when he goes out there to destroy the character and intergrity of others. This is not America. We do not elect saints as President. I want a human who understands. As for Bill Ayers, the man has never been convicted of a crime. He has dedicated his life to Education. He has been at the forefront of school reform. So, my question to Sean Hannity is, so what
John McCain pulling out of Michigan stunned me!!! The fact that he has given up on the state's 17 electoral votes does not speak well so far on the state of the campaign. I thought Mike Murphy's characterization on the Sunday edition of Meet the Press was "striking". He noted that His "..Barn was on fire..".
I also thought about William Ayers again. With all the "hype" about the guy, I thought I actually go out and check him out. The Google hits came back with over 363,000 hits. I was interested in what he had done since the 60's than what he had done during the 60's. I happened to visit his blog at http://www.billayers.org to see some of his writings and other activity. Let's judge folks on what they have done with their lives after their youthful indiscretions. America is the land of second chance. John McCain was redeemed after the Keating Five scandal and understood the mistakes he made. This "Guilt by Association" that Paul Begala talked about can be indeed more of a problem for Senator McCain than he realizes
The role of the Vice President of the United States is outlined in Article 1 of the Constitution. Every student of American Government understands that. The role has expanded becuase the world has changed. As I thought about Governor Palin's view of the role of the Vice President, it simply scared the daylight out of me.
The conservatives continue to be excited by Governor Palin. They should be!!! She is their answer and may well have a shot at further national politics if the election was close enough. Despite my reservations about her policy views, I view her ascendancy to the Governorship of Alaska as a great achievement. I will note that if a third candidate was not running, Tony Knowles would have probably had his job back. One can make the argument that a minority of Alaskans elected her. In addition, there are many in Alaska who have profound disagreements with her. There is of course the so-called Troopergate Scandal that is going on which the McCain campaign is trying to put in a freezer until th election. If there is nothing there, why are they afraid? What's the deal with all this talk of partisanship
The U.S. Vice Presidential debate has just concluded. Before I talk about the debate itself,the role of the debate moderator must be mentioned. I think Gwen Ifill did an outstanding job. All this hype about her book and her apparent "tilt" towards Obama turned out to be crap!!! So far, the moderators have done a great job. With Tom Brokaw and Bob Schieffer moderating the next two debates, I think it will only get better.
Senator Biden and Governor Palin went toe-to-toe. I think Senator Biden side-stepped Governor Palin in a rather deft way. He was quite restrained, but on top of his game. He was my candidate twenty years ago. He was not my candidate this time simply because I was duped by John Edwards. But, I think Senator Obama's decision to choose him was a master stroke. Senator Biden has spoken his mind. I was impressed when he made two key points: 1) He reminded the world that the idiot Ahmadinejad does not control the Iranian Security services. He was surprised that that Senator McCain was not aware of this fact and 2) He reminded the world of Senator McCain's record
Right now, I am listening to a live feed of C-SPAN as the Senate is gearing up to vote on the bailout package. There seems to be consesus that something has to be done. Supposedly, there are provisions to take care of "Main Street". I find that to be a good thing. Let's see what happens. We are in the midst of a profound storm. I trust that our leaders are wise enough and courageous enough to do the right thing. Blaming each other for partisanship is simply not going to cut it. Bernie Sanders of Vermont is having his say. I always enjoy hearing him speak. He is the only declared socialist. I pray that voices like Bernie Sanders are not silenced. Our democracy is better for it. As I write, Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and Harry Reid of Nevada, the Senate Leaders, are speaking.
The Senate is gearing up to vote on it. Whatever the Senate does, the House still has to vote tomorrow and then there has to be a conference committee. So, we're not out of the woods just yet. But, signifcant progress has been made. What I am particularly pleased about is the fact that the only amount to be released immediately is 250 Billion Dollars. In addition, the deposit limit is being raised. They have just fixed the AMT, among other things. There are also so-called "payment in lieu of land" for Federally Owned Land. I did not know a signicant percentage of the State of Nevada was owned by the Federal Government and they are yet to receive any payment for the expected income. I find these to be really great ideas. One thing that has to be also understood is that the balance of the $ 700 Billion is subject to further approval. The balance is subject to further approval
This Simple Sentence set the tone for Franklin Delano Roosevelt's quest to begin the painful renewal of America in 1933. Whoever becomes President in about 38 days will inherit a "mess" that is as tough as the challenge faced by FDR in 1933. I believe that America can overcome and renew itself yet again. It requires leadership and sacrifice. We must all be ready to do so for the sake of our children. I Pray that whomever wins will be up to the task. I listened to him to gain some comfort on the future:
The U.S. House of Representatives has bailed on the bailout. What was laughable was the reason given by the House Republican Leader about how Republicans were offended by the House Speaker's speech. I briefly caught Senator McCain later when he lambasted "Senator Obama and his allies" for being partisan. As I listened to it, I just sighed. This inaction caused the dow jones to lose almost 800 points. I can only imagine what other markets will do when they open in about 8 hours or so. I just can't believe how broken and irresponsible our leaders are. I found Barney Frank's comments funny, yet sad at the same time:
I have been reading on the various reactions, checking out the daily tracking polls to assess what the "lay of the land" is as the post-mortems on the debate continues. Of course, the focus is no\w on the bailout and the potential cost for inaction. I have to say that as the details of the original plan continue to be discussed, it horrifies me even more. The Republicans were no better in suggesting ideas like reducing the capital gains tax. The ability to protect "main street" seems to be in fashion.
I found Pepe Escobar of the Real News's perspective interesting to say the least
As the U.S. Congress is debating how to get out of the economic 9/11, China thunders on. The Chinese launched a 3-Man space craft yesterday and the first space walk was completed a short while ago. They are also talking about beating the U.S. to the moon by 10 years. Senator Obama talked about this during the debate. China's march to the future continues while it seems America wants to stay stagnat.
I saw the debate between Senator Obama and Senator McCain last night. They went at it. I think Jim Lehrer did a fantastic job, first of. He asked the tough questions, did not let them get out of line and kept things in place. Both Senators were prepared and provided their perspectives on where they want to take this country. I did not think anyone scored a knockout punch. I think, though, that Senator Obama held his own on the issues of Foreign Policy against Senator McCain despite Senator McCain's constant reminders to the audience and the world that "...Senator Obama just does not understand...". The fact that Senator Obama acknowledged that Ahmadinejad is not the most powerful man in Iran proved to me that he did his homework.
Both candidates are both going to Washington right now to be available to vote on the bailout measure. The Congress is in a week-end session. The consesus is that something must happen and happen now. There is also an apparent agreement that main street must be protected as well. Let's see if they rise to the occasion. I think they will
Reports are coming in right now that The House Republicans have rebelled against the bailout plan. There is no agreement!!!! The meetings in Washington have broken down. The Republicans have their own plan now. This is after a whole week!!!! This proves a simple, yet crucial point: The Republicans have no moral authority or legitimacy now. The Republicans are playing politics--pure and simple. In the meantime, the ordinary folks in main street are suffering. The irresponsbility of the Republicans is absolutely appalling.
Some say a week is a long time in politics. Well, now, it was proven that a day is a long time in politics. Yester day, John McCain was the toast of the political reporters. The front page of the U.S. Edition of the Financial Times had a large picture of John McCain with Barack Obama noted as an afterthought.
The hypocrisy of his move was illustrated yet again. He told the world that he had no time to waste. Yet, somehow, he found time to grant Katie Couric of CBS news an interview. He stood up David Letterman. David Letterman tore into him--and deservedly so. Watch
President Bush spoke late Wednesday to the country and the world. He underscored how tough things are. He has called for a bipartisan meeting at the White House later on today to discuss the bailout package and the way forward. I think the President has risen up to the challenge to bring all parties together. Although I wish he would have governed in this fashion, better late than never!!!
I view this event as quite significant. I also am heartened by the joint statement issue by Senators Obama and McCain. There is no question that we have arrived at the moment of reckoning. The President was absolutely right on when he said that in times of crisis throughout history, everyone has risen up to the challenge. I am confident that the leaders will do so yet again. The people expect no less
The U.S. is in debt to the tune of 9 trillion dollars. It is soon to be almost 12 trillion. As I was reading on the analysis of the plan and the reaction from U.S. Political leaders yesterday, I have come to the simple conclusion: the U.S. is broke. The plan to bail out the banks means an average family will have to pay out $ 10,000. This means that proposals do something about healthcare and infrastructure will either have to be put on hold or cancelled all together. There will be painful budget cuts. We have started down a road that may indeed lead to nowhere. There is word that somehow main street may be helped. Whether in fact it happens or not is another question. Markets are nervous and rightly so.
FBI has begun an investigation of the companies involved, though. I am glad that the government is looking at it. Some people may end up going to jail. I don't know how that will help the average guy on main street, though
The Political Candidates, The Pundits and Government Officials have been at it. The proposed 700 Billion Dollars bailout is now before the Congress. Although there is enough information and analysis out there right now, what Robert Scheer noted was worth mentioning: President Bush vetoed S-Chip becuase it cost too much money. Yet, somehow, the country can come up with 700 Billion Dollars to bailout Wall Street. An interesting idea HIllary Clinton had was to have the bank to freeze the foreclosures to avoid the spike while allowing banks to work through the challenges?
Let's not rush to judgement and truly insure that all ordinary folks interests are indeed protected. Some decisions needs to be made soon, though. So far, the markets seem to have given a big thumbs down to what has been proposed. As I write this, markets in Asia are falling after the big fall on Wall Street. When will this all end
Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley changed their charter to bank holding companies. This will allow them to start taking commercial deposits. That's a good thing, I suppose. It allows them to have access to the borrowing window of the Federal Reserve. So, the restructruing of investment banking is now complete. Investment banking as we have known it for hundreds of years is gone!!! It is high time indeed.......
As the new week begins, it appears that the U.S. Government's decision to take on the "Toxic Assets" to the tune of 700 Billion has been embraced by markets around the world. I am cautiously optimistic. However, there has to be further steps taken to insure that the middle class is protected from the freefall that it is faced with. I view the economy as the central overriding factor in the election as in 1992. Gallup's daily tracking poll has shown that Senator Obama has lost his edge by about a percent. Other polls, though, continue to call it even. I think it is still even despite Senator Obama taking the lead because of the economy. I continue to view the upcoming debate as a turning point. It should be a blockbuster
The polls are starting to show that Governor Palin's star is fading. The Gallup Daily Poll taken on September 19 shows a 5 point lead by Senator Obama. He has continued to gain as the U.S. and the World has undergone an economic implosion that has been unprecedented and is probably indeed the biggest challenge since the Great Depression. The markets were up when Hank Paulson annouced the basics of the plan taking on all "bad debt" off the balance sheets. The markets liked it and they rallied worldwide.
But, the politics of the day still played itself out. There was a story in the September 18, 2008 edition of the Los Angeles Times. The report was on Governor Palin saying "yes to a road to nowhere". She changed her mind on the bridge to no where that has been the central tenant of her stump speeches. But, as folks have continued to investigate her record, the truth is starting to come out. So, the fiction that somehow she is "clean" is starting to unravel. Of course, the McCain-Palin campaign's standard line has been that it is the "elite media" that has been digging things under the guise of democratic operatives. Governor Palin pushed this "fiction" when she noted that organizers of an anti-Iran rally in New York pulled an invite from her under pressure from Democratic Operatives. Interestingly enough, Fox News also reported that Governor Palin will be at a Monday Reception hosted by President Bush. My assumption is that all candidates will be there to be "introduced" to other world leaders as well
Senator Chuck Hagel, one of the Senior Republicans on the Foreign Relations Committee, questioned Sarah Palin's experience to serve as President. He discussed this during an interview with his hometown paper, the Omaha World-Herald. Here is the link: Hagel
:Is mistatements, character assasination and outright falsehoods going to carry the day????!!!???
The Republican National Convention is in full swing and just concluded its' second night. The theme and focus was on the hurricane. I was frankly sickened by how the Republicans took advantage of the hurricane. Despite whatever representations the Republicans may have made, the fact is that the Republicans took advantage of the hurricane and that SHOULD not be allowed. They did it and got mileage out of it. No matter what they tried to say, it left a very sour taste in my mouth. Senator McCain should have stayed away and simply made a declaration of support. He decided not to do it.
As always, there were speeches and music. Among the number of keynoters was Fred Thompson, the former Tennesse Senator and failed Presidential candidate. I became more and more agitated as he spoke. He had so many mistatements in his speech, it was not even funny. The only thing I will grant him is the fact that all of us salute John McCain for his service, sacrifice and courage for America. The humanity that led Senator and Mrs. McCain to adopt their daughter Bridget is beyond question. I salute them for it. It is what we stand for as a country. But, such traits does tnot mean that he is entitled to be crowned President. That is what Mr. Thompson asked us to do. There are those of us who love this country and try to serve our country and our communities as well. The implication that somehow our love of country and community is less is unfortunately frustruating--and Mr. Thompson told the country as such
Campaigns are serious business. Campaigns are a chance to debate and reflect upon the future. As I was reviewing my daily analysis, I thought some humor was in order. Senator McCain's visit to the oil rig prompted a response from the Democrats. I I have commented on the idiocy of this push by Senator McCain. I did get a kick out of the ad,though:
Well, what I had feared has in fact happened. Corsi, the same idiot who helped do a hatchet job on John Kerry in 2004, is at it again. He is out with a new book that he claims he has researched extensively. Every review I have seen notes that his so-called research is full of inaccuracies. He was featured on Hannity and Colmes a few days ago. So, Fox is giving him a platform to peddle his book.
One of the statements I read about him was his claim that he is a muslim and he has proof. This statement, to me, means that he is an outright racist and a liar. These kind of characters have no clue and don't understand America. At least, he is honest about one thing: he is out to take down Obama. I do at least commend Bill O'Reilly for calling Corsi a pinhead. I understand that he is among the nay-sayers who apparently believes in the conspiracy theories that has been pushed by the fringes on 9/11
:Maybe Rick Warren Will Try and Talk Some Sense....
By now, I am sure everyone has heard about the upcoming get-together Barack Obama and John McCain have got planned for August 16. For those who are interested, the details are available at Really Long Link It is also going to be broadcast live on CNN, as well as streamed over the internet.
I view this get-together as significant. First of all, it will in a forum moderated by a very interesting man. Rick Warren, Saddleback's Senior Pastor, started this church from virtually nothing a little over 25 years ago. I remember the time when the campus Saddleback Church is now was being built and how it evolved. I view his message of love and compassion as refreshing. He is truly one purpose driven man that should be listened to. I have also been quite taken by his humility in spite of his power and that in and of itself makes him credible in this increasingly cynical world that we live in
John O'Neill is one of the guys who led the "Swift-Boaters" who helped to derail U.S. Senator John Kerry's 2004 Presidential Campaign. It was a concerted effort that ulimately resulted in George W. Bush being reelected to a second term. It was the second term where he said he had gained "political capital" to get things done.
Well, the swifboaters don't seem to want to give up. John O'Neill's email reminded the country about the "honor" he had to derail John Kerry's campaign. I don't know Mr. O'Neill and will not question his intergrity and honesty. I also respect his service to America. But, I don't believe that he truly understands the America that he fought for. To me, America means respect and admiration. America to me means an optimism and belief in the future and the fact that anything is possible. It is about respect for all men and all beliefs. I am sure that John O'Neill believed it once. Doing this to me has undermined the very essence of America. Americans should repudiate and reject such notions. As for Freddoso's book, he has a right to publish his book. That's why we have the first amendment in this country. But blatant character assassination cannot be allowed to continue for the sake of our country
I have perceived government to be a partner. Yet, over the past 28 years (ever since the election of Ronald Reagan), Government has been systematically dismantled under the guise of efficiency. It has been dismantled because it was perceived to be a part of the problem, not the solution. Part of how it was done was to put people in charge who were ideologically opposed to the very nature of the mission of the institution. I remember appointments like James Watt who was an avowed opponent of the mission of the Department of the Interior--whose sole mission was to protect the natural resources of the United States. Watt was just extreme example. There were many others.
Now that 8 years of the Bush Disaster is coming to an end, his successor will have a profound problem. With deficits as far as the eye can see, the choices are limiited. Joe Klein talked about the fact that the next President has to make government work again. Reagan was praised because he was a former President. But, his record and his achievements were not that impressive. I am sure that many will disagree. If Obama is elected, he will have his hands full in trying to undo the damage of 8 years of msguided excesses which has jeoporidized the U.S. position as the biggest economy in the world. It will begin with Obama appointing visionaries who are tough enough to make the tough choices for the sake of the nation. As for Senator McCain, he has said that economy is not his strong suite. Where is he going to find the money to give away more tax cuts is something that is a bit of a mystery? We'll have to see how it all pans out
Mike Pouraryan
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