Eye of Providence

Just tone it down right-wingers!

2011-01-13T14:07:00.001-06:00

Just tone it down! That's all we ask. No more attempts to paint people with different political beliefs as your enemy, or un-American, or a tyrant, or a foreigner, or a terrorist, or a racist, or a nazi, or any of the other inflammatory lies you use to rile people up to get votes from nothing but invented fears. And while you're at it, stop it with the violent rhetoric such as 'reload' or 'take aim' or '2nd amendment solutions' and all the completely inappropriate gun imagery (like crosshairs) that is clearly just plain wrong, especially after the tragic shooting in Arizona. No specific instance may be directly responsible for that particular crazy person's violent actions, but there are plenty of other crazies out there who certainly don't need any motivation to act out violently based on irrational hatred.

Fox news and most 'conservatives' are doing everything they can to justify their over-the-top rhetoric with zero accountability or acknowledgment of wrongdoing. The reason for this is simply that they must continue to use inflammatory rhetoric because that's all that really works for them on election day. Those are the despicable tactics used only by those who can't win their argument reasonably, logically or factually and is in direct opposition to the noble belief in civil discourse that is essential to our democracy.

We're not trying to tell you what to do or infringe on your rights or whatever your first knee-jerk reaction to this request may be. We are standing up for what is right, fair and reasonable. So, right-wingers, I offer this challenge. Just tone it down and argue your politics based on civility and a respect for the truth. It's what America is suppose to be all about and what makes us so great in case you've forgotten. If you believe so strongly in your cause then is it really necessary to try to scare people with lies? Politics and life in general in our society should be more civil and respectful for a change. Is that too much to ask?

The Real Faces of the Glenn Beck "Restoring Honor" Rally

2010-08-30T22:21:00.003-05:00

Here are the real faces of the Glenn Beck "Restoring Honor" rally in Washington, D.C. Of course, it's really all about Obama - not 'restoring honor' or whatever babble they hide behind. Notice the insane amount of ignorance and delusion. My comments on some quotes from the video are below in parenthesis.

"Take back America" (from Democrats)

"Communist" "Socialist" (victim of fear-mongering and lies)

"America is failing" (un-American BS)

"Bring country back together" (against Obama)

"Blacks don't own this day" (please ignore our attempt to hijack MLK's legacy)

"Beck didn't say Obama was racist or been disrespectful to the president" (ignorance or liars)

"Obama is a racist and elitist" (we watch only Faux News)

"His dad has a deep-seated hatred for white people" (and the son is somehow guilty of the sins of his father?)

"Obama is anti-progress and pride of America - will wilfully destroy country and divide us on issue of race." (Is she talking about Obama or Glenn Beck?)

"I agree with Birthers - he's Muslim at heart" (I believe lies)

"He doesn't have faith or believe in our country" (yet he ran for president)

"Current gov't will take away freedom of speech" (doesn't give one real example when pressed - only more lies ) "They just need to back off!" (You need to turn off Faux News!)

"Protect white cracker babies" (way to fear-monger about the big bad black president...)

"Slap in the face - mosque at ground zero - blah blah blah" (What part of 'restoring honor' includes tossing away our fundamental freedom of religion???)

"Islam is not a real religion blah blah blah" (stupid Islamaphobe)

"Muslims are sticking their thumbs in our eye" (2 1/2 blocks away from ground zero in an old coat store run by an Imam who worked with the Bush admin on counter-terrorism efforts... yeah right)

"Victory mosque" (only wingnuts call a community center that)

"I learned all i need to know about Islam on 9/11" (wow what a moron)

White people are just like Native Americans when it comes to today's illegal immigration. (Are Mexicans committing genocide and I didn't notice?)

"Immigrants are a health risk." (and they're dirty too!)

"Do like the old immigrants did." (be brought over as slaves)

"The come across the border just to have a baby" (way to repeat BS right-wing talking points)

(Love Ben Franklin on the cell phone! About as realistic as this rally's attempt to "restore honor.")

Bush-Era Tax Cuts a Likely Campaign Theme? I Say Bring It On!

2010-07-27T01:23:00.003-05:00

The Wall Street Journal reports that Bush-era tax cuts are a likely campaign theme for the November 2010 midterm elections. If so, I say bring it on! Here's why:

With the Republicans' non-stop complaining about too much spending and the increased budget deficit and our huge national debt, they can't have it both ways. Either they want more income coming into the government in the form of increased taxes or they want to cut vital services and entitlements that Americans enjoy and take for granted on a daily basis. They really think that they can just use the old 'Democrats want to raise taxes' attack and think that people are too stupid to know the truth, but a quick examination of the facts easily shows that the proposed tax increase for the rich is actually minimal and hardly enough to cause the negative economic impact that conservatives claim will happen if the Bush tax cuts for the richest Americans are allowed to expire in 2011.

First, nobody making under $250,000/yr will see increased taxes because those Bush tax cuts will be extended. This is exactly what Obama promised during the 2008 presidential campaign and ever since and I'm proud that he's held to that pledge. About 2% of U.S. households earn more than $250,000 annually, according to recent statistics, therefore only 2% of Americans will be affected by this tax increase. Republicans will be choosing to side with the rich and not the middle class (as usual). Some have even been so bold as to propose raising taxes on the middle class and extending cuts for the rich. Good luck with that idea Repubs... Trickle-down economics is an abysmal failure in case they forgot!

Here is a breakdown of the actual dollar amount of tax increases for different tax brackets. As you can see, it is not very much of an increase compared to the annual income levels.

A married couple, two earners, two children making $300,000 will see a tax increase of only $3,995.

A married couple, two earners, no children making $500,000 will see a tax increase of only $6,442.

A married couple, two earners, no children making $1,000,000 will see a tax increase of only $53,175.

This information is based on the chart above created by the Tax Foundation from the Wall Street Journal article.

With the many programs and two wars started by the Bush administration with absolutely no plan to pay for them, including the tax cuts for the rich he implemented as soon as he got in office without a plan to pay for them, it is completely fair to progressively tax the rich in 2011. With increased spending due to the recession and an increasing deficit and huge national debt, even conservatives should agree that it is definitely a necessity. Extending the Bush tax cuts for the rich will add another $2 TRILLION to the deficit over the next 10 years. How hypocritical it would be of Republicans if they allow this to happen over such minimal tax increases for the richest 2% of Americans.

I've shown that these proposed tax increases for the rich are not harsh at all and if I was making that much money every year, believe me, I'd certainly have no problem paying a little extra as my patriotic duty to ensure the success of our nation as a whole. These are the same rates the rich were paying under Clinton and the economy had no problem thriving then. These facts make it a clear losing argument for Republicans if they choose to use it as an issue in the upcoming November 2010 midterms. That's why on this issue I say "Bring it on!"

Is This What Has Become of Conservatism? An Investigation Into Delusional Wingnut Madness

2010-07-11T22:28:00.011-05:00

WARNING: If you're a liberal or rational human being these quotes will make you mad but sometimes you just have to laugh at how unbelievably stupid some people can be while pointing out how ridiculous they truly are.

As clear examples of just how delusional and unbelievably hateful conservatives can be, I've compiled some of the comments from the latest couple of posts on the Facebook page for 'Being Conservative' which has almost 1 1/2 million members. Frankly, I've never seen a more ignorant and despicable bunch of moronic assholes. In my opinion those who spread the kind of blatant lies that are being spread there about our president are traitors to our country and should be held accountable.

(NOTE: The names of the people commenting has been left out for privacy concerns. In some instances I have included my own comments on these quotes that are indicated with an arrow like this: <---)

This post was just asking which stupid t-shirt slogan they like the best.

"Fire Congress!
Kick out the american imposter president from Kenya first!"

"IMPEACH OBAMA!!!"

"This is a socialist state and a socialist nation, sad to say!!"

"10,000 fists 1 hanging" <--- CALL FOR MURDER

"Reverend King must be rolling over in his grave, with disgust and burning shame at the overt racism that has become POLICY in the Obama administration."

"Elect a "Man Who Would Be King", then when he does not do as he promises, "Off with his head"! We need to make the people responsible, RESPONSIBLE!"

"Impeach Obama!! before he and Pelosi ruin our country, give it to the Chinese, and turn us into slaves to the Muslim world. Keep drilling!!!!!!"

"If any of them "R" or "D" aint started "IMPEACHING" this "UNCONSTITUTIONAL pRECEDENT!!!!, Then none of them are worth having! Every thing this pRECEDENT has "EVER DONE" is ANTI-USA, and ANTI-CONSTITUTIONAL!"

"America was great, but not anymore. You can tell by the current regime. Now we have boarder jumpers voting, getting free health care, and education."

-----

Here's some comments from a post with a poll that blatantly lies about Obama allowing foreign ships to help clean the Gulf oil spill. Of course, the vast majority of people don't bother to investigate if this claim is true or not. Because it fits into their preconceived beliefs it's immediately accepted as fact and even used as an excuse to call for the POTUS to be impeached and even murdered.

I was happy to see that a few brave people dare set the record straight that Obama has indeed been accepting foreign aid for the oil spill including this first quote which made me chuckle.

"I shared your poll link above, then got this news report back from a friend about all the countries the State Department has ACCEPTED help from and are currently working on the oil spill. Get your facts STRAIGHT!! before you try to stir up negative press. You just made republicans look stupid...."

"Obama ISN'T a Christian. He is Muslim. He is one of the most anti-american people out there."

"This country is falling apart under the leadership or lack thereof with Barrack "Osama.""

"Obama allowed many of our soliders to be killed because he took not a day, but month to finally send more help...that shows right there he don't care. Obama never ran a buiness, & never faught in a war, he don't know nothing except to destroy."

"I truly with all my heart wish he could have been the first Black man to fight for our freedom, and show the world he was a good man, but unfotunitly he is working for the devil."

"Obama will destroy our Country, he is building it up to be worst than Hitler, do we want to live like that? Soon Obama will make it so you have no privacy at all. Even those who are illegal will hate him, because Obama is just using them as he is everyone he speaks to. He is working towards a one ruler, & soon we will have serious wars even here if we don't get him out. We are Living in the LAST DAYS."

"Is he TRYING to single-handedly destroy us? Does he really hate America THAT much? Why is he trying so hard to hurt so many people with every decision he makes? I don't understand."

"So it Looks to me that President Obama, & Congress don't care about protecting our Country, they are out to destroy, & take all our rights away, this is just the beginning, they intend to control everyone and I mean control your Life & everything you do. Wake up America lets fight back"

"hes not gonna be happy till hes made the us on the level of a third world country. hes a friggin muslim i don't know why people are so blind. hes on his wat to selling us out..., and not no but hell no i don't agree with his decision hes killing our waters and sealife at a faster rate than the fishieries part of nearly everybodys diet. i don't agree with 99.0% of what he has to say anyway cause it comes from a lyin muslim"

"he is an idiot!!!!! worst president we have ever had-----he needs to be OUT of office, NOW!!!!!!!!!!!"

"BO is out to destroy America any way he can, and he's doing a great job so far. I do not believe he is either an AMERICAN OR A CHRISTIAN!"

"Obammy is using this spill to condemn Big Oil. He DOES NOT want it cleand up quickly! He's following what one of his henchmen said, "never let a good emergency go unused" or something like that. The guy is a PHONY, no experienced, wanna be KING. The arrogant socialist bastard need to be impeached!"

"OBAMA. WORST PRESIDENT, ALREADY..THERE IS A SICKNESS IN THIS ADMINISTRATION AND HE IS ITS CZAR..THIS MUST END BEFORE HE DESTROYS THE FINEST CIVILIZATION KNOWN YET TO MAN..THIS IS NOT HYPERBOLE."

"BO is a poop head. This was consensus amongst at least eight of us in a bar in Nashville yesterday!"

"Between ODumbo and his pandering fool Holder I'd like to throw both of those a-holes in the Gulf before they sink this country in the hole any further."

"Where is GEORGE W... yes. GEORGE, we miss you."

"What a dick, we need all the help we can get to clean that mess up. That boy needs to step aside and let someone with some sence run this country."

"If the spill were in another country's backyard, say... Iran or some Muslim country... he'd have sent trillions of non-existent dollars plus half the US Navy to assist. He's holding the Gulf Coast hostage!!!"

"Obama-nickname is Dan stands for dumb ass niger lol" <--BLATANT RACISM

"He's an idiot. hes not a US citizen he has no birth certificate. and has no business being the President of the United States. He had divided this country and will go down in history as the worse ever president. The country is bankrupt. Now even nurses can't find jobs."

"Hussein Obama, the muslim in charge, doesn't want it cleaned up, just like he doesn't want to protect our borders. His goal is the destruction of the U.S., the main muslim agenda."

"BO is trying to destroy America, not improve it. At what point will the American people wake up to this socialist?"

"Why can't these people see that. He is evil incarnate..."

"Obama is an obstructionist president." <--- HUH?

"What we need is another Ronald Reagen combined with Abe Lincoln and Washington and some founding fathers to put us on the right path." <--- Zombie Frankenstein "Reagen" in 2012!

"This is payback time for Louisiana for not getting our vote . He wants to destroy us as much as he can. This man is very very evil."

"Obama is not for you or me nor this country.. he's for his self and his muslum buddys.. So as for the oil spill he could care less the same for our milatary were our children are dying everyday for our country while he's sitting on his a$$ doing nothing.. All talk.. no action.."

"I believe Obama is the man with many faces.. he is the devil.. the end days are nearby"

"Stupid is as stupid does. It looks like Forest Gump is running the Country" <--Who honestly thinks Obama is stupid...really...

"This stupid fucking idiot is not a president but a fucking dictator we need to get him out"

"OBAMA IS A TERRORIST LOVING FREEDOM HATING IDIOT!!"

"I think we should throw him in the gulf." <---Call for violence

"HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN IMPEACHED AFTER HIS FIRST MONTH."

"He's also from Kenya Africa."

"I vote to impeach him for treson!" <---"Treson"!! Hell, If you gotta make something up for a reason to impeach Obama..it might as well be treson...

"Will someone take this JAGOFF out of office!"

"do not agree he is worse than any OTHER terrorist to hit Americans and he is our president!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

"blowbama is an idiot" <---Wishful Thinking? (this commentor was a dude)

"obamarxist will pay fot this. It's called karma."

"NO, Obama wants to destroy America. This is another example of how much he hates the US."

"Obama seems through all this mess to continue to help the Muslims. This is a religious thing he is doing."

"He is a terrorist to our country. Let's get him OUT!"

"We are under siege.. The government is taking over our lives.. down with big government and comrad Obama"

"Obammy doesn't want it cleaned up!!! he wants to use this to tighten the Governments grasp on us the people! Jones act Shmones act...This turd merchant O boy, is all about union labor and socialism..."

"Our TERRORIST PRESIDENT, single handedly killing America"

That's all I can stomach right now, but believe me, there's thousands more comments just like these!

---

The vast majority of these people honestly believe Obama (Democratically elected President of the United States of America) is out to destroy our country...on purpose. Most believe this because they honestly think that he's a Muslim infiltrator who has duped the nation. SERIOUSLY! I feel dirty now after reading this garbage and I hardly went through very many comments out of thousands to uncover the alternate reality conservatives seem to live in and I left out a LOT of duplicate opinions. Despite claims from the right-wingers, there is absolutely no equivalent to this kind of insanity and disgusting vitriol with the rhetoric from our side. None whatsoever.

Notice how the majority of them engage in such childish taunts and how they can barely use punctuation, spell correctly, or even write a cohesive sentence. That tells you a lot about their mental capacity IMO. I have to wonder why they believe all this crap they spew or if it just makes them feel better to vent? Regardless, it's a sad state for the conservative movement that they've become so remarkably ignorant, hateful and just plain stupid!

I'm truly amazed anyone could become so brainwashed by Faux News and other right-wing 'news' sources who are willing to feed their delusions. Is this just all code-words for racism, or motivated reason, or what exactly explains the descent into wingnut madness that has become conservatism? I have no explanation for such insanity other than they absolutely hate our democracy when they're not in power and are willing to say anything to try to tear down Obama, even at the expense of our entire country. How despicable!

Montgomery, Alabama "Tea Party Patriots" Support Joe Wilson In Person

2009-09-10T21:17:00.003-05:00

Last night President Obama's speech on health care reform to a joint session of congress was marred by the inappropriate and disrespectful outburst from Republican Representative Joe Wilson of South Carolina who falsely yelled "you lie" at the president after Obama correctly denied that his health care proposal would cover illegal immigrants. This rude show of incivility was so outrageous that even conservatives like John McCain have admonished Wilson as "totally disrespectful."

What is worse is the indisputable fact that Rep. Wilson is really the one lying because both the House and Senate versions of President Obama’s health care reform plans contain passages explicitly excluding illegal immigrants from receiving federal money to purchase health insurance from either a private or government-run health plan. This is documented by bipartisan fact checking organizations here here and here. Also, PolitiFact rates Wilson's claim that Obama was lying as "FALSE" on their Truth-O-Meter.

How blatant is Joe Wilson's lie? If you actually READ the bill, H.R. 3200 under Subtitle C -- Individual Affordability Credits is Sec. 246 which is titled "No Federal Payment For Undocumented Aliens" which says:

Nothing in this subtitle shall allow Federal payments for affordability credits on behalf of individuals who are not lawfully present in the United States.

Therefore, Obama is right and Wilson is wrong. CASE CLOSED.

The facts or common decency and respect certainly didn't stop the "Alabama Tea Party Patriots" of Montgomery, Alabama from supporting Joe Wilson. Today, MSNBC reports that members of the group (which is coordinated by known liar Matthew Givens) were the first in line this morning to visit Rep. Wilson's congressional office to offer their support in person.

Starting at around 8:30 a.m. various groups supportive of Congressman Wilson’s comment began to stop by his office. First up: the Montgomery, Alabama Tea Party Patriots. When leaving the office, one of the four women that made up the group said, “He was right, and he needed to know it.”

Yup, Montgomery Alabama's Tea Party Patriots support Rep. Joe Wilson and believe that he was "right" to yell at the president in such a rude and disrespectful manner even though what he yelled wasn't even factual. Congrats Alabama Teabaggers, you've proven yourself as the absolutely moronic fools that you truly are.

This video explains why Alabama is a "red state"

2009-08-29T16:10:00.002-05:00

Complete stupidity and gullibility!

Also, this must have been the slowest news day...ever!

Conservative Arguments FOR Healthcare Reform

2009-08-28T14:40:00.002-05:00

Here are conservative argument for health care reform that I think any fair-minded person can agree with regardless of your political affiliation or beliefs.

By passing comprehensive health care reform we have the opportunity for the federal government to truly affect the general welfare in a positive way for all Americans as guaranteed in the United States Constitution. How? It's simple. A healthy nation is a productive nation. Think of all the man-hours being lost today due to workers being ill, in pain, or disabled. If we were all just a little more healthy, a LOT more would get done and therefore, more money would be made and we would ALL prosper.

Also, healthier citizens are happier and that means less crime and violence as well as less division and hate. It would mean less domestic violence and less child abuse. More jobs and better salaries means less burglary and theft, less homeless, less hungry and less poverty. And, of course, it would result in more business too because happier people have a tendency to do more and spend more money. This stuff is just common sense, but it rarely is brought up in the debate for health care reform. Why are you opposing it again?

Let's say you just care about more jobs and economic growth. Great! The 'public option' being proposed by Democrats will give a competitor to the insurance industry to bring costs down. The insurance that businesses provide to their employees will be cheaper and some will even take the public option. That means more small business jobs and more profit for small businesses. The CBO reports that, despite claims by HCR opponents, private insurance companies will actually gain MORE customers due to lower costs.

Want more business arguments FOR health care reform? If 47 million people suddenly have health insurance, there is sure to be an increase in demand for medical services and pharmaceuticals, so expect the stocks for these providers to do extremely well. Those businesses will need to hire more people to meet this demand, therefore more jobs created due to health care reform. Salaries will also be positively affected. The public option is good business, good for jobs and good politics!

But what about the conservative principle of fiscal responsibility, you might ask? The answer is simple: We can't afford to keep things the way they are. Our broken health care system represents 16% of our Gross Domestic Product. Health care costs are leading individuals to bankruptcy at an alarming rate. If nothing is done, it will only get worse. That means less income in the form of taxes for all levels of government and therefore a loss of public services you've taken for granted your entire life. Without economic growth, the only way to go is down. A public option would clearly be good for business, good for American's health, productivity and overall prosperity.

We are still feeling the negative effects from eight long years of a conservative administration and 'representatives' who completely abandoned this supposed principle of fiscal responsibility by turning a surplus into record deficits. When a Republican president wanted to drop bombs, they never questioned the cost, but if Democrats want to reform a broken health care system which will directly help American citizens by protecting our life, liberty and pursuit of happiness, suddenly we can't afford it?

Yes, health care reform directly affects all three of these inalienable rights set by our founders in the Declaration of Independence. The "Life" part is obvious. Healthcare is essential for life. "Liberty" involves how insurance companies currently profit by denying health care benefits as well as the lack of real competition in the industry. Currently most people get insurance from their employer. When costs come down, you can choose between companies and coverages because they will be more affordable. It is also an injustice infringing on your liberty that an insurance company decides what medical treatment you get and not a doctor. At least we can vote for whoever represents us in government. That is the power of our great democracy. Your "Pursuit of Happiness" is being infringed on when insurance companies take advantage of you, for example, by denying coverage based on a pre-existing condition or refusing to pay for your benefits solely for their own profit and greed. Obviously, healthiness contributes to happiness and lower costs will reduce financial hardships which are a detriment to an individual's well being. With all three of these inalienable rights currently in jeopardy by a broken health care system, I am shocked that more true conservatives don't come out in support of health care reform.

10 More Conservative Arguments FOR Healthcare Reform

1. Illegal immigrants are explicitly not covered.

2. Legislation does not subsidize abortion.

3. Insurers that deny lifesaving treatment, or ignore Living Wills can no longer keep these practices secret.

4. The bill promotes entrepreneurship by letting people keep their healthcare when they quit their job and start a business.

5. More Choice = More Freedom. The public option is OPTIONAL. It's another choice designed to give much-needed competition to an out-of-control insurance industry that is making record profits by denying health care benefits.

6. Emergency room care for the uninsured is guaranteed at public expense so it makes sense to bring these people into the insurance system, and to offer less expensive, long-term preventive healthcare. This will reduce costs for everybody.

7. Accountability for costs, quality, and value of providers, suppliers, and administrators is public.

8. Coverage does not discriminate by type of illness or ability to pay.

9. Both the Preamble and Article 1 Section 8 of our US Constitution guarantee that the government will promote and provide for our defense AND general welfare. If you believe that the federal government should provide a military for defense, then you should also support the idea of providing health care for all US citizens.

(BTW universal health care would require a 'single-payer' system and not the 'public option' being proposed by Obama and Democrats in congress. Liberals are compromising because a solution to this problem is THAT important.)

10. A Republican party that often cites their own moral values as an advantage should put compassionate common sense in front of ideology and partisanship.

There sure does seem to be a lot of good conservative arguments FOR health care reform. Wonder why you never hear Republicans or right-wingers talking about these positives? Unfortunately, that's because it seems to be all politics and no common sense with so-called 'conservatives' these days.

Wingnuts are Mental Cases

2009-08-26T00:58:00.006-05:00

I've been trying in vain for ages to get inside the mind of wingnuts who base their opinions on anything but fact and common sense. All attempts have let me to just one conclusion: Delusions. Today I found this great NewsWeek article, and it backs up that argument and explains a lot!

In short, being a wingnut is a mental phenomenon called "motivated reasoning."

Some people form and cling to false beliefs about health-care reform (or Obama's citizenship) despite overwhelming evidence thanks to a mental phenomenon called motivated reasoning, says sociologist Steven Hoffman, visiting assistant professor at the University at Buffalo. "Rather than search rationally for information that either confirms or disconfirms a particular belief," he says, "people actually seek out information that confirms what they already believe." And God knows, in the Internet age there is no dearth of sources to confirm even the most ludicrous claims (my favorite being that the moon landings were faked). "For the most part," says Hoffman, "people completely ignore contrary information" and are able to "develop elaborate rationalizations based on faulty information."

The article goes on to compare how some people irrationally believe the outrageous lies being spread about health care reform with those who believe the false claim that Saddam Hussein was involved in the 9/11 attacks - even after being shown proof that clearly discounts their beliefs.

For their study, the scientists whittled down surveys filled out by 246 voters, of whom 73 percent believed in a Saddam-9/11 link, to 49 believers who were willing to be interviewed at length in October 2004. Even after the 49 were shown newspaper articles reporting that the 9/11 Commission had not found any evidence linking Saddam and 9/11, and quoting President Bush himself denying it, 48 stuck to their guns: yup, Saddam Hussein, directly or indirectly, brought down the Twin Towers.

Wsheew, talk about delusional!

The entire article by Sharon Begley is quite insightful for those of us who try to understand the illogical reasoning behind a wingnut's opinions. Now that I know they are mentally handicapped, I may feel a little sorry for them.

AL.com is Guilty of Censorship

2009-08-18T13:05:00.003-05:00

Recently I've been taking the truth to the people in al.com's politics forums. It has been a daunting task as the vast majority of people who post there are right-wingers who promote any and every lie being told about the Obama administration and Democrats with ZERO facts to back up their delusional opinions. I have always conducted myself in an appropriate manner and followed the website's policies without deviation.

However, It didn't take long before my posts, and only my posts, were being deleted for no reason other than some moderator obviously didn't like what I had to say. Today my account was disabled. My crime? Setting the record straight on the common lie that health care reform legislation will supply free health care to illegal immigrants. I was even able to find a blatantly right-wing news source to support the fact that both the House and Senate versions of the bills actually prohibit subsidies to illegal aliens, but the al.com forum moderators can not handle the truth.

Apparently, if you're liberal you get censored and banned, but if you're a wingnut - any crazy conspiracy theory you want to write about, regardless of facts, is perfectly okay. Not only that, but the wingers frequently use childish name calling and rarely engage in anything even vaguely resembling civil discourse. It is clearly obvious that al.com does not want any dissent from the right-wing talking points, propaganda and lies that are the only opinions allowed on their forums. In their forums it is practically North Korea - not the America where our right to freedom of speech is held dear and they should be ashamed of themselves!

My personal stories about why healthcare reform is desperately needed

2009-08-11T13:25:00.002-05:00

I'll admit that the health care reform debate is personal to me. Someone very close to me had just started full-time hours at her new job when intense stomach pain caused her to be rushed to the emergency room. It turned out she had an inflamed tumor and, after emergency surgery, it was determined that her stomach was riddled with peritoneal carcinoma - a type of cancer related to ovarian cancer which can be very deadly. Luckily, it was caught in very early stages and we were assured that she was going to be okay after another surgery and a few chemotherapy sessions. Today she is doing well, although the chemotherapy has caused the long-term problem of anemia. Regardless, almost a year-and-a-half later, we are very thankful that she has made an almost full recovery.

The medical care my friend received was excellent but unfortunately her health problem began just a week before her employer-provided health insurance was to begin covering her. Not only did we suddenly have to face this daunting battle with cancer and the long recovery from two surgeries, but also how these outrageously expensive medical bills would be paid for. Thankfully, charity took care of a bulk of the costs, but not all of them. That meant my friend will have to declare bankruptcy or be in debt for the rest of her life just because she got sick a week before her health insurance kicked in. Without charity it is very possible that she would have been denied treatment and eventually died from cancer. Even with charitable help she is facing a desperate financial situation.

It is clear from our experience that costs are simply out of control. Recently, when she was having trouble sleeping and her doctor prescribed her Ambien, we were unable to afford the price of a bottle of pills which was over one-hunderd dollars. This price for a few pills is simply ridiculous, but it is a good indicator of what the broken health insurance system has done to prescription costs. Without insurance, medical treatment and prescriptions are simply not affordable to the average person so never let anybody try to tell you that health care reform is unnecessary.

That's not the whole story and how it relates to why we desperately need health care reform in this country. During her recovery period, my friend was still working when she could at her new job. This was very difficult and she ended up occasionally having to miss a day of work or two due to complications. Even with her recent medical history her employer did not think this was appropriate and they refused to give her full time hours. If fact, to this day, she has yet to get full-time work from her employer. They keep her just under full-time hours so they don't have to supply her health insurance. It is obvious the reason why this is happening. They don't want to pay for her health care because they are afraid she will get sick again which would cost them money. Her employer even went as far as to basically tell her that if she missed just one more day of work she would never get full-time hours from them again. This has caused a great deal of stress as she feels that she must go to work no matter how sick she actually is, and frankly, I find their treatment of her despicable! Now, after a year-and-a-half since her original surgery, they have finally promised that she will get full-time hours, so we'll see what actually happens. I am worried that if she even gets a cold or the flu and has to miss work that they will then take away her full-time hours and she will be without insurance once again. Is this how the American worker is treated these days? It seems that compassion has been replaced with greed and workers are treated as if they are disposable unless they are in perfect health. That doesn't sound like the America I know and love, and those problems are a direct result of a faulty health care system that is desperately in need of reform.

As for me personally, I own my own business and can't afford health insurance due to the high premiums and lack of steady work in a weak economy. I've had my own health problems of late, albeit much less serious than my friend as described above. Recently, I suffered a dog bite while trying to break up a scuffle between our pets and the first thing that went through my mind was: "How much will this cost me?" I had the exact same thought when I also recently came down with gout in my foot, and in both cases I did not go to the doctor because I simply cannot afford it and refuse to be in so much debt for getting hurt or sick. Last month I suffered intense pain daily simply because I couldn't afford health care or medication. It has to make me wonder how many other people are in the same situation or worse off than me. The prospect is frightening and I try not to think of the suffering and death caused by our current broken health care system.

Regardless of the facts, those on the 'right' will continue to try to argue that there is no need for health care reform, or that the answer is simply 'personal responsibility' and in my opinion they are completely delusional. I've seen firsthand how the system is defective and how employer-based healthcare is being held over workers to control them as practically slaves. Frankly, I am disgusted with the status-quo of the health insurance system in our country. This is suppose to be the greatest nation on earth, but our citizens have to worry about going broke just because they get sick. That's just not right. We can do better, and we MUST do better. If our government can spend a trillion dollars fighting an unnecessary war in Iraq, why can't they spend our tax dollars on something that will positively affect the American people on a daily basis? Keeping things the way they are now with an insurance industry that is making record profits off of the pain and suffering of people by denying them health care benefits is just plain disgusting, and we need real change NOW.

Where is my mind?

2009-02-18T01:16:00.002-06:00

Obviously, I've lost focus posting on this blog. I guess now that the election is over and (thank the Gods, Obama won) I just don't have the passion to keep up with it and write new articles. I'm also very busy trying to get work and it's tough out there. My apologies to anyone who checks this blog (if they actually exist). I'll try to add more when inspiration strikes but the topics probably won't be political.

A Better Countdown to Change

2008-11-11T15:28:00.002-06:00

Okay, it's kinda creepy, but funny!

Top Reasons Why John McCain Lost

2008-11-11T01:08:00.009-06:00

I'm a politics junkie so I've been reminiscing about the 2008 presidential campaign which culminated a week ago with the election of Barack Obama over John McCain as our next president. Yay! As a huge Obama supporter I could give you 1000 reasons why he won. However, as a fed up liberal, I think that it's much more interesting to look at the top reasons why John McCain lost:

6. George W. Bush
- Worst president ever
- abysmal approval rating
- McCain voted with Bush 90% of the time = NOT a maverick
- McCain had no clear policy differences from Bush

5. Economic Crisis Response
- "The fundamentals of the economy are strong."
- suspension of his campaign (didn't really) political gimmick
- despite his intervention, House Republicans first voted against bailout (no leadership by McCain)
- uninterested and uninvolved in White House meeting
- Republican economic theories of deregulation and trickle-down economics mostly to blame
- didn't look presidential

4. Debate Performance
- won't look Obama in the eye
- won't say the same smears as on campaign trail to Obama's face (until 3rd debate and then it just came across as mean)
- "That One"
- erratic
- no clear difference from failed Bush policies
- poor temperament

3. Dishonorable Campaign
- originally promised he wouldn't then blamed Obama for it
- "Change" (stealing Obama's slogans / message)
- "Obama wants kids to learn about sex before learning to read."
- "He'll raise your taxes"
- "Lipstick on a pig"
- "Pals around with a terrorist"
- "Real America"
- "Obama is a socialist"
- "Barack Hussein Obama"
- rally attendees yell hate speech
- had to defend Obama from his own crowd members
- Joe the (fake) Plumber (plant / wingnut)
- lost credibility

2. Sarah Palin as VP Choice
- completely unqualified (Foreign policy, Interviews)
- obviously not a "Country First" decision by McCain
- McCain lost "experience" attack on Obama
- not a true reformer (Wasilla left in debt, bridge to nowhere, ethics violation)
- national joke (SNL - Tina Fey, late night comics, etc.)
- hypocrite ("Hockey Mom" vs. 150K wardrobe, bridge to nowhere, "reformer")
- kept away from media
- no credibility

1. Barack Obama
- terrific candidate
- Democrat after 8 years of Dubya (R)
- great VP pick (Joe Biden)
- true message of change
- more presidential
- bipartisanship
- better policies
- better campaign
- better temperament
- hope

I will never doubt that Obama was the better choice no matter what McCain might have said or did but, after listing all of these negatives against McCain, it really shows just how bad the Republicans have to be to be able to get a Democrat elected president (let alone the first black one ever). I think if McCain had just been more positive, effectively outlined his different vision for the future separated from Bush, and if he had made a responsible and not political choice for his VP, this could have been a much closer election, and he might have even squeaked out a win (even with Bush on his back). I believe this could have been possible only because of people's instinctive reaction to reject change, especially in a time of hardship and while we're in two wars. I also think that it's possible that, no matter how McCain ran his campaign, Obama's message was so strong that he was able to overcome this obstacle.

If you want to succeed in politics then you have a great blueprint with Barack Obama's campaign but Democrats should watch out because they better believe that some Republicans will be smart enough to learn from McCain's mistakes. Hopefully that will mean the end of the nasty and divisive tactics they've been using to scare people for votes. If that is the only outcome of this election for their side, then I'm proud to help them out by listing exactly how John McCain totally blew it. Besides, it feels good to gloat a little after all that us liberals have been through over the past decade. When Barack Obama is sworn in as our 44th president it will be a new day for America and, if they truly want a better way forward for our country, then Republicans should also learn from his successful campaign and his examples through leadership in the years to come. If we can just go back to who has the best ideas and policies no matter what political party they belong to, then I believe we will all be better off.

Alabama vs. LSU Now the Most Dangerous Rivalry

2008-11-10T13:06:00.009-06:00

Hey, I'm a huge Bama fan since birth, but this is ridiculous.

According to the Mobile Press-Register:

An Escambia County couple died Saturday after an argument over the Alabama/LSU football game ended in shotgun blasts, according to Conecuh County authorities.

The shooting allegedly occurred about 7 p.m. at the home of Michael Williams near the Owassa community in Conecuh County, Chapman said.

Investigators said witnesses told them that Dennis Smith, an LSU fan, called Williams, a fan of the Crimson Tide, after the game Saturday evening and an argument ensued.

Officers said Donna Smith was a relative of Michael Williams' girlfriend.

Soon, the Smiths arrived at Williams' home and the men wound up in a physical altercation, officers said.

Smith retrieved a pistol from his vehicle, and threatened Williams, who armed himself with a shotgun and fired two blasts, striking and killing Dennis Smith, officers said.

Donna Smith then threatened Williams, who shot and killed the woman, they said.

It looks like Williams may have a case for self-defense (at least how this article is written) and, of course, alcohol was also involved but it is so sad that people would take something as trivial as a disagreement over a football game to the point where guns are brandished and lives are taken. I recall someone getting stabbed at a recent Alabama-Auburn game, but this is the first time I've ever heard of a death as a result of a sports rivalry. It's nothing to be proud of for sure...

Believe me, I completely understand how emotions can be on high over sports, and especially with heated SEC football rivalries. However, people need to remember that in the end it is just a game. Sports are suppose to build community spirit, not be the motivation behind murder.

The Clanton Advertiser Continues to Deny Reality

2008-11-09T12:30:00.007-06:00

Recently I pointed out how my hometown "newspaper" The Clanton Advertiser endorsed John McCain based only on a falsehood about Barack Obama. After repeated requests and a angry phone call, they have yet to even acknowledge that they got a basic fact about Obama wrong, and they refuse to print a retraction, correction or even my letter to the editor addressing this matter.

I will admit that this is personal for me. I delivered the Advertiser to over 70 households all over south Chilton County six-nights-a-week for over a year. I was not fired or laid-off but simply had to quit the job after gas prices increased to the point that I could no longer afford to make deliveries for their organization. Also, my father was the co-founder of the original newspaper that was bought in 1975 and became what is now The Clanton Advertiser. I am a long-time reader and resident of the small Alabama town that this organization is suppose to serve. On top of all of that I've been engaging in discussions on their new website which now allows people to comment on articles. There I've encountered the most disgusting opinions imaginable about Barack Obama and I'm proud to say that my participation has tamped down the fear-mongering and hate-filled rhetoric from those on the 'right' who used to be able to post without being challenged by anyone.

After sending yet another email demanding an answer for their irresponsible journalism, I received the following response from Managing Editor Brent Maze:

First of all, that one reason was not the only reason for endorsing McCain. It was the prevailing reason, and as I have said the factual inaccuracy you have numerously repeated on our site was probably just a poor choice of words. When you have limited space to put an endorsement in the paper, we can only limit our reasoning to that space provided. The reason why there hasn’t been a retraction or a correction is because we felt there was none needed, and yes this was discussed with our news staff. I seriously doubt that we changed anyone’s mind, and the question of Obama’s experience is a valid question. I’m not sure that four years of serving in Washington is enough time to learn what he needed. I’m not sure anyone truly knows what kind of legislation Obama will propose with the exception of his “redistribution of the wealth.”

Not only does he try to cover the fact that they plainly got it wrong about Obama's legislative record by giving a weak excuse for how badly the article was written, he is now parroting more Republican talking points about Obama!

I've removed part of his email dealing with one of my comments that was deleted since that issue has been resolved, but here is the rest of Maze's response:

I do not have a problem with you calling us out, but I do not appreciate being bullied by you or anyone else. You were trying to do that in a phone call earlier this week. Because of that reason, I have chosen not to run your letter to the editor. You or anyone else will not make threats about doing something if we don’t do the thing you demand. The only one that has the right to tell me how to do anything is my boss.

For the record, I was not bullying anyone. I simply let him know that there would be consequences if they refused to correct their mistake such as my writing on this blog and my canceled plans to advertise in their "newspaper." This is something that I'm sure they're not use to at all: accountability.

Of course I had to reply and included his boss as a CC, but my emails were 'bounced' back to me. Because the emails were bounced back to me, not at the same time but an hour apart, I'm pretty sure that they read my response and just bounced the emails so I'd leave them alone. How sneaky and dishonest is that?

Here is my reply to Mr. Maze (with a paragraph pertaining to my deleted comment removed):

What matters is that the only reason you gave for endorsing McCain in that article was based on a falsehood about Obama. What your staff really thought or were limited by space to print is irrelevant when what you actually published was plainly wrong. Whether it was a poor choice of words or not, you did indeed get an obvious fact wrong and I would think that as a journalist you would care about that. However, now that you are repeating more Republican talking points about him, I have a better idea of where you're coming from.

I do apologize if I came across too harsh in my phone call to you, but I was understandably upset and may have been a bit tense on election day for obvious reasons. Not only is it important to me that people get the facts right about Obama, it is just as important that a news organization presents both sides in a fair and balanced way. Unfortunately, you failed to do this and apparently are still unwilling to set the record straight. That is your right too, but with all due respect, it speaks volumes about your organization's journalistic integrity.

I'm willing to let this go now, even though I am not satisfied at all by your lack of an official response in print. I will hope that in the future you will take your responsibility to your community seriously and get the facts correct no matter what the subject or who it may favor. That's what journalists are suppose to do.

I know that The Clanton Advertiser is a small town paper whose priority is obviously (based on their name) selling advertising and that they are probably used to operating without scrutiny, but this kind of irresponsible and sloppy journalism should not go on anywhere without some kind of accountability. As an ardent Obama supporter, I am sick and tired of the falsehoods being spread about him, and the fact the the Advertiser refuses to even admit their mistake shows their obvious bias and a complete lack of professionalism. Just because they are located in a very pro-Republican county in a very pro-Republican state does not give them free reign to mislead their readers and never set the record straight just because the fact they got wrong was about a Democrat.

They truth is obvious: They lied about Obama and will never admit their mistake. Due to their lack of any published response, I now believe that it was their intent to deliberately mislead their readers about Obama's record. Because of this and their recent inclination to censor comments on their website for no good reason, I will no longer be participating on their website, will never advertise with their organization, or even read their sorry excuse for a paper.

I encourage anyone who reads The Clanton Advertiser to take everything they publish, regardless of who it may favor, with a huge grain of salt. If you truly care about a news organization getting the facts correct and fairly representing all political candidates (especially when it's something as important as a presidential election), then I suggest that you cancel your subscription, refuse to advertise with them and boycott anyone who does buy ads in The Clanton Advertiser. This is the kind of accountability a dishonest and irresponsible news organization deserves.

Barack Obama is the man, and now "The Man"

2008-11-07T23:43:00.013-06:00

click for full size image

Illustration by Patrick Moberg

And no white folk, Obama is NOT your worst nightmare come true:

Get the latest news satire and funny videos at 236.com.

For those still pinching themselves: Yes we did!

Election Night 2008 Highlights

Countdown to Change

2008-11-06T01:14:00.002-06:00

January 20th, 2009 will certainly be a day to celebrate for two big reasons. President Obama and no more Bush!

My girlfriend whipped up this video today to celebrate.

For inspiration until then: Obama's election night speech.

State Education Grades Compared to 2008 Presidential Election Results

2008-11-05T17:15:00.007-06:00

It seems the best excuse people on the 'right' can come up with today for why John McCain lost to Barack Obama is that people were uninformed or mislead by the "liberal media." Or, in other words: They are stupid. This is a ridiculous argument. I'm not saying that all Obama voters are smarter than all McCain voters, but let's look at a comparison of the education system for states and how they voted in the 2008 presidential election.

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce State-by-State Report Card on Educational Effectiveness .

And, according to the final electoral college map from MSNBC.

7 of 10 states with a "A" rating on academic achievement voted for Obama-Biden:

Massachusetts- Obama
Minnesota- Obama
New Hampshire- Obama
Vermont - Obama
New Jersey- Obama
Connecticut- Obama
Kansas - McCain
Washington- Obama
North Dakota - McCain
Montana - McCain

7 of 10 states with a "B" rating on academic achievement voted for Obama-Biden:

Ohio - Obama
Virginia - Obama
South Dakota - McCain
Pennsylvania - Obama
Wisconsin - Obama
Maine - Obama
Wyoming - McCain
Colorado - Obama
Nebraska - McCain
Iowa - Obama

8 of 10 states with a "D" rating on academic achievement voted for McCain-Palin:

Arizona- McCain
Tennessee- McCain
Georgia- McCain
Kentucky- McCain
Arkansas- McCain
Rhode Island - Obama
Alaska - McCain
South Carolina- McCain
Florida - Obama
Missouri- McCain

States with a "F" rating on academic achievement were split evenly 5 for Obama-Biden and 5 for McCain-Palin:

District of Columbia - Obama
Mississippi - McCain
New Mexico - Obama
Alabama - McCain
Louisiana - McCain
Hawaii - Obama
Nevada - Obama
West Virginia - McCain
California - Obama
Oklahoma - McCain

States with good educational systems overwhelmingly voted for Obama-Biden and states with poor education mostly voted for McCain-Palin. This comparison clearly shows that better educated people voted for Obama and poorly educated people voted for McCain. It is more likely that well educated people made an informed decision and were able to seek out the truth. It is also more likely that poorly educated people did not make an informed decision. So, maybe we can put this pitiful excuse that Obama voters are uninformed or were fooled by the media to rest now that we know the facts.

President Barack Obama!

2008-11-04T23:08:00.002-06:00

I am so proud of America for rejecting the politics of divisiveness and fear-mongering and making a intelligent choice for the change our country desperately needs by electing President Barack Obama! Make no mistake, this landslide victory is a clear mandate by the people to finally have a government that effectively works for all of the people and to take us all in a bold new direction with a new leader who offers common sense solutions and an ability to unite our country like never before.

For those whose night didn't go like they had wanted it to, I hope you'll respect our democratic process and the majority of Americans who voted for Obama. I encourage you to support our new president in the difficult times ahead. There is no doubt that we will all need to work together to truly bring about positive change for everyone. If you believe in the spirit of our country and the principles on which it was founded, you will join us in celebrating this historic moment. This is not about one man or one political party, this is about all of us. One of my favorite patriotic phrases could not be more relevant than today: "United we stand, divided we fall."

To the many who have negative opinions about Obama I can promise you this: You will be pleasantly surprised. This will not be the partisan politics of the past. He will appoint those with differing political views to his cabinet and you will see that his policies are what's best for everyone without harming the principles that make our country so great. You will also learn that he is a decent and fair man whose judgment will protect us and our interests around the world. Mark my words, Barack Obama will be a terrific president.

Obviously I am an ardent Obama supporter but, believe me, I will to hold him just as accountable as I hold all of our elected leaders. The promises candidates make on the campaign trail are important, and I will expect him to follow through with all of his proposals to the best of his ability. This will be a difficult task, but I am confident that he will work with the brightest minds available to find the best way forward for our great nation. We can overcome the partisan gridlock in Washington. We can end the influence of corporate lobbyists and government corruption. We can turn our economy around and create new jobs. We can have affordable healthcare. We can reform our education system. We can responsibly leave Iraq in victory. We can destroy the terrorists who attacked us on 9/11. We can end our dependence on foreign oil and protect our environment. We can have liberty and justice for all. We are the greatest country on Earth so, yes we can!

For Obama supporters, now is the time to celebrate! Relish in this watershed moment and enjoy yourselves. You deserve it, and we all deserve the real change that is coming for the United States of America.

Election Day Playlist - VOTE OBAMA-BIDEN!!!

2008-11-04T00:00:00.005-06:00

Here's some great music for Election Day.

Jimi Hendrix - The Star Spangled Banner

Jay Jay French and Friends - I Want Barack

Blind Melon - Change

Bruce Springsteen - This Land Is Your Land

Sam Cooke - A Change Is Gonna Come

The Who - Won't Get Fooled Again

David Bowie - Changes

Elvis Costello - (What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding

Yes We Can

U2 - City Of Blinding Lights

John Lennon - Power To The People

Obama Hater's Reckless Endangerment Possibly Results in Obama Vote

2008-11-03T18:14:00.016-06:00

I live in the heart of red-state Alabama so it was no surprise when our regular vinyl and wire Obama-Biden sign was stolen after only being up in front of our house for just over a week. However, what happened Saturday crossed way over the line. In broad daylight someone dragged our homemade Obama-Biden sign out into the middle of a busy highway recklessly endangering the life of anyone driving by at the time who could have either hit the sign or would have had to brake suddenly or swerve to miss it. Who would have known that the end result would be a undecided voter possibly making up their mind to cast their ballot for Obama?

First, this isn't any regular sign. It is fashioned from a large piece of plywood about four feet wide and has 2x4s on either side as a base so it will stand up straight. There was nothing controversial painted on my homemade sign, just the words Obama and Biden in blue and a big red check mark all painted on both sides over a white background for maximum visibility. Some free-speech hating coward thought it was perfectly okay to just drag it off our property and out onto a busy two-lane highway where the speed limit is 55 mph. Someone could have easily been killed in a automobile wreck if they had hit the sign or had to try to avoid it.

We live on the top of a hill overlooking a busy highway in a rural part of the state. I knew that putting out an Obama-Biden sign was risky since, not only are we vastly outnumbered here by Republicans, but the only location where it would be visible from the road is about 50 yards from our house so it would be easy to steal without us noticing. After our regular Obama-Biden sign was stolen last week my girlfriend and I decided that putting out our only remaining sign would be too easy for someone to grab so we created our own and we made it practically un-stealable. We painted a large and heavy piece of plywood about four feet long and created a stencil for the words Obama and Biden and a large check mark. My girlfriend is an artist so it was no problem for her to also create a stencil for Obama's logo in the "O" of "Obama" and we were proud of the result. So the plywood would stand up, I attached 2x4s on each side that were cut to the same length of the plywood. I'd guess that the entire thing weighs over 50 pounds so nobody could easily snatch it and run away. Our homemade sign had remained down by the side of the road for almost a week without incident.

All day Saturday I had been extra nervous about the sign since the election is drawing near and (if the polls are correct) it is apparent Obama will win. It was around 6pm when I heard a loud noise outside so I leaped off of the couch and looked out the front door to see my sign was now out in the middle of the road. I immediately went outside but I didn't see the creep who did it - only their car which was parked up the road a bit and unfortunately my view was obstructed. I yelled as loudly as I could for them to "get off my property you *expletive deleted*!" By the time I could grab a baseball bat for self-defense and run down our gravel driveway they were gone. I would have pursued them in my car but I had to drag the sign off of the road before some unfortunate passerby hit it. When I had completed doing this it was too late to go after them to try to get a license number. I was understandably furious. Not only was someone trampling on our freedom of speech, they were willing to put people's lives in danger at the same time.

The last thing I wanted to do is give in and remove my sign, but the next day I decided it wasn't worth it to keep it by the side of the road where any anti-Obama idiot could drag it out into the highway and possibly kill someone just because they disagree with my political beliefs. I moved it up on the hill where it is not as visible, but can still be seen. I've been warned by the authorities that I should watch out on election night and in the days following for more acts of vandalism now that our home has been marked as supporting Obama. I am not afraid because those kind of people that would do such a thing are nothing but cowards and they should also know that Democrats have guns too!

I am so disappointed that this is what it has come to in our society that people will do such despicable acts just because of our differing political views. I believe that this kind of hate is a direct result of the inflammatory rhetoric from the McCain-Palin campaign that has stirred up their supporters to believe that anyone who supports Obama must be an anti-American terrorist supporter. All of America should hold John McCain and Sarah Palin accountable for their divisiveness and fear-mongering on election day.

And now for the happy part of my story. As I did when our original Obama-Biden sign was stolen, I called the County Sheriff, not because I thought they could catch the perpetrator, but so they'd know what was going on and would look after the house when they could. The deputy that came out was an extremely nice fellow and we immediately got into a conversation about the election and he claimed that he was still undecided. His concerns about Obama were the tired old falsehoods that he won't respect the flag, etc. so I quickly set him straight by explaining Obama's reasoning for sometimes not wearing a flag pin, and I made sure he knew that Barack's grandfather (who helped raise him) was a WWII vet so there's no way he could have been brought up to hate America. We talked about the economy and I explained how Obama's plan favors the middle-class much more than McCain who wants to give more tax breaks to huge corporations and will leave out over 100 million tax payers. He indicated that he had heard the charge that Obama might be a socialist, and I dispelled this as typical fear-mongering from Republicans and proved how ridiculous a claim that was based on his tax policy and if you simply read the definition of the word it is just not true. We talked about Iraq, and even though he thought it was right for the US to go in there in the first place, he agreed we should now leave. I explained that McCain has no exit strategy for Iraq and Obama will bring home our troops responsibly. The deputy also agreed that Roe v. Wade should not be overturned and I made sure that he knew that McCain has said his Supreme Court nominees would definitely have to agree that it should be overturned and that Sarah Palin believes abortions should be illegal even in the cases of incest and rape. I also told him that by looking at how each candidate has run their campaign you can get a good idea of how they'll run the country. I explained how Obama's pick of Joe Biden for VP was a true country first decision in comparison to McCain's choice of Palin and how their campaign of divisiveness and lies about Obama has been dishonorable.

In the end the Sheriff's deputy gave no clear indication which way he'd vote, but I felt good about setting the record straight about both candidates and discounting the smears about Obama that he was concerned with. It was good to know there are some in my area who still have an open mind and aren't just blindly buying into the propaganda from the right. Will he vote for Obama? I don't know, but I will hope that this ugly incident will turn into a positive with the possibility of one more vote for Barack Obama and Joe Biden.

Barack Obama: Closing Argument

2008-11-03T11:34:00.001-06:00

The choice is clear, now get out and vote America!

My hometown paper endorses McCain, gets fact wrong about Obama

2008-11-02T12:49:00.007-06:00

The Clanton Advertiser has endorsed John McCain for president. I have no problem with that, but their primary reasoning for why Obama is not their choice is just plain wrong.

McCain has shown that he has the experience necessary to get legislation passed in Congress. Obama hasn’t. In the years he has been in office, Obama hasn’t been able to get any legislation passed into law. If you can’t get any bills pushed through Congress to become law, then you can’t produce any change.

This is the reason why we believe McCain is the best man to lead our country for the next four years.

The Advertiser has the right to endorse John McCain but they owe their readers to at least get the facts right!

Their primary reason for why Barack Obama does not get their endorsement contains the following factual inaccuracy:

In the years he has been in office, Obama hasn’t been able to get any legislation passed into law.

Barack Obama has indeed been able to get legislation passed in Congress since he became a US Senator. In fact, 16 bills sponsored or co-sponsored by Obama have became law.

Here is a list of some of the legislation that is now a US law thanks to Obama:

The Lugar-Obama Non-Proliferation Act

S.2590 Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006
S.2125 The Democratic Republic of the Congo Relief, Security, and Democracy Promotion Act
S.2488 OPEN Government Act of 2007
S. 2803 Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006
S. 707 PREEMIE Act
S. 906: Mercury Market Minimization Act of 2007
S.2617 Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2008

S.2135 Child Soldiers Accountability Act of 2008
S.1760 Healthy Start Reauthorization Act of 2007
S.1492 Protecting Children in the 21st Century Act
S.1276 Methamphetamine Production Prevention Act of 2008
S.793 Traumatic Brain Injury Act of 2008
S.431 KIDS Act of 2008

I don't know how the Advertiser got this easy-to-confirm fact wrong but anyone can learn the truth about Obama's record of passing bills into law by doing a little research online.

The Clanton Advertiser is being irresponsible by publishing this falsehood about Obama and I demanded that they print a retraction before election day. If they have any journalistic integrity at all they will do so as soon as possible.

An open letter to McCain-Palin supporters

2008-10-27T19:30:00.006-05:00

For wingnuts with no sense of humor THIS IS SATIRE! geesh - it's always had a comedy tag.

Hi,

Are you the kind of person who watches The Colbert Report and nods in agreement with everything he says while wondering why everyone else is laughing their ass off? Does watching Tina Fey's impersonation of Sarah Palin piss you off? Do you still think Bush has done a 'heck of a job' and Democrats are responsible for everything bad that happens? Then you are out of touch, and you must be a McCain-Palin supporter.

We are one week from the most important election in our lifetime, so why is it that most of you still continue to believe the outrageous lies being spread about Barack Obama? It seems to me that you have formed your opinion of why John McCain should be president based on how bad you think Obama is from the false claims that he's a Arab Muslim terrorist baby killing socialist. Do you have any clue how stupid this sounds, or are those accusations just excuses that you use for not voting for the black guy? Hardly any of you can say why McCain would make a good president, but you sure know a lot about the people Obama barely knew and will easily ignore all of McCain and Palin's questionable associations. Hypocrisy is a way of life with you isn't it?

After Barack Obama is President, why don't you and all your right-wing extremist friends follow Sarah Palin back to Alaska, join the Alaskan Independence Party and secede from the United States? You all want your own fascist Christian theocracy that forces everyone to look, behave and believe just like you do, so this is the perfect solution. You can call your new country "Wingnutia".

You can write your own Constitution and laws without all the things that you seem to hate so much like freedom of speech, separation of church and state, due process and the right to privacy.

In Wingnutia, anyone and everyone who wants any type of gun can get one regardless of their background or mental capacity, so that should be fun - kinda like the wild west only with automatic machine guns and a lot colder.

Abortions will be totally illegal, so you'll have plenty of unwanted kids to fill your population. Many will be the result of incest so you won't be the smartest nation, but you like stupidity don't you because people are easier to control when they're idiots.

Nobody will ever question your leaders, so there will be no responsibility for any of you to bother to vote or even pay attention to what's going on - something you already seem to be good at. You can make Palin Queen of Wingnutia, and bow down to her and the corporations who will make you their slave at her behest.

Don't forget you can also shoot and kill any animal for any reason you want in Wingnutia and use up all the natural resources with no regard for the environment at all. Waging war will be an everyday aspect of life there when your leaders invade any country whose leaders look at them funny.

The best thing about your new country will be that you can continue to ignore reality without any pesky liberal intellectual elites proving you are wrong again and again with their annoying facts and truth.

If you choose to follow my advice, remember one thing. When Putin 'rears his head' - don't come asking for the USA to help. You've got your own foreign policy 'expert' as your glorious leader who can see Russia, so she must know what to do. Get Sarah Palin to deal with it because you're on your own.

Sincerely,

A proud, and fed up liberal.

Obama a socialist?

2008-10-25T11:24:00.020-05:00

The McCain/Palin campaign wants you to think that Barack Obama is a socialist. That is a lie.

To understand this accusation we need to know exactly what socialism is. Let's look at the definition of the word according to Merriam-Webster online dictionary:

Socialism:
1: any of various economic and political theories advocating collective or governmental ownership and administration of the means of production and distribution of goods
2 a: a system of society or group living in which there is no private property b: a system or condition of society in which the means of production are owned and controlled by the state
3: a stage of society in Marxist theory transitional between capitalism and communism and distinguished by unequal distribution of goods and pay according to work done

That doesn't sound like any of Obama's plans or policies to me, and believe me, I know them inside and out. His health care plan doesn't even require a mandate for coverage except for children. There is absolutely nothing in Obama's voting record resembling socialism either other than the recent bipartisan bailout bill which was also voted for by McCain. So, where did this accusation come from? They took one quote from Obama out of context when he was speaking with the now infamous "Joe the Plumber" and said:

"It's not that I want to punish your success," the Illinois senator told Wurzelbacher. "I just want to make sure that everybody who is behind you, that they've got a chance for success, too. My attitude is that if the economy's good for folks from the bottom up, it's gonna be good for everybody. . . . I think when you spread the wealth around, it's good for everybody."

That's right, that one quote about spreading the wealth around (taken out of context) is the basis for their entire claim that Obama is a socialist.

When Obama said it's good to "spread the wealth around" all he meant was that he's going to let the Bush tax cuts for the wealthiest 5% of Americans expire. This will shift some of the tax burden off of the middle class and increase income taxes for those making over $250K a year up a whopping 3%. That's it, not some grand sinister plan to destroy our capitalist democracy. It's a fair plan (the same as under Clinton), and when you look at the history of our tax system, Obama is actually to the right politically of Presidents Carter, Ford, Nixon, Johnson, Kennedy, and Eisenhower on how much the wealthiest Americans should pay in taxes.

Interestingly, socialists don't think Obama is a socialist:

Brian Moore is the Socialist Party USA candidate for president who claims that Democratic presidential nominee, Senator Barack Obama, is not a socialist as the McCain-Palin camp would have us believe.

Experts don't think Obama is a socialist. From McClatchy:

Favoring higher tax rates for the wealthy than for the less fortunate isn't socialism, and if it is, then the U.S. has been a socialist country for nearly a century, under both Democrats and Republicans.

"The answer is clearly no, Senator Obama is not a socialist," said Paul Beck, a professor of political science at The Ohio State University. "We've had a progressive tax system for some time, and both Republicans and Democrats have bought into it."

From the Chicago Tribune:

"Obama is about as far from being a socialist as Joe The Plumber is from being a rocket scientist," said Darrell West, director of governance studies at the Brookings Institution. "I think it's hard for McCain to call Obama a socialist when George Bush is nationalizing banks."

And this from Bruce Carruthers, a sociology professor at Northwestern University: "Obama is like a center-liberal Democrat, and he is certainly not looking to overthrow capitalism. My goodness, he wouldn't have the support of someone like The Wizard of Omaha, Warren Buffet, if he truly was going to overthrow capitalism."

Even this very anti-Obama wingnut says Obama is NOT a socialist:

Calling Obama a “socialist” simply isn’t logical. He doesn’t share the belief that industries should be nationalized by the government or even taken over by the workers as many American Marxists espouse. He may not be as wedded to the free market as a conservative but he doesn’t want to get rid of it. He wants to regulate it. He wants “capitalism with a human face.” He wants to mitigate some of the effects of the market when people lose. This is boilerplate Democratic party liberalism not radical socialism.

The claim that Obama is a socialist is just another fear-mongering technique to scare people into thinking that he is somehow anti-American and it is a despicable tactic. I have to say, it's no surprise from John McCain's dishonorable campaign that has been full of lies, smears and character attacks while ignoring the problems we face as a country. So, how about getting past the fear-mongering and try to focus on the real issues people? Have you ever heard the term "united we stand, divided we fall"? Then stop trying to divide our nation just to win an election with baseless accusations such as Obama is a socialist, because it is simply not true.

Oh, the humanity! - Adventures of a Obamavenger

2008-10-20T20:01:00.005-05:00

Recently I've subjected myself to the dregs of humanity who spew the most hateful and outrageous lies about Barack Obama. I regularly get comments about Obama such as he "wants to take my guns" or he's a "Muslim supported by terrorists", a "baby killer", and the "anti-christ". Where do I find such filth, and better yet, why do I even bother with such uninformed idiots? My hometown newspaper's website recently added a comment system so users can add their thoughts to articles that appear in their online edition. As to why, I post there to make sure their right-wing propaganda does not go unanswered in case a casual reader believes the lies. So far, I've been attacked, called names, and lied about by the regular commenters there, and by what I suspect is many of their duplicate accounts. This is not surprising since the things they believe are so far 'out there', it's no wonder that their tactics would be just as extreme.

I won't stress anyone with any of the more disgusting attacks on Obama and my responses, but here's the latest post that frequent contributor "TheDude" posted to hijack an article to promote his delusional wingnut views.

The article was about getting ready to vote on November 4th. (I won't post the links to the website where my ongoing struggle with these people is taking place. I don't think it's right that anyone else gets involved because of my blog, and believe me, you don't want to deal with these asstards!)

The first comment on the article is from username "TheDude":

John McCain and Sarah Palin are TRUE Americans with the back-up to prove it. They don't associate with known extremists, terrorists, and corrupt lobbyists and individuals. I believe they will lead our country out of economic troubles and move us forward in cleaning up our environment, keeping us safe, and helping the U.S. become a self-sufficient, clean energy nation. Your gut ought to tell you that somethin' ain't right with the Obama, Biden ticket.

His buddy (or duplicate account) "TLS" chimed in the next day around the same time as the first comment.

ASE must not have seen this comment yet, or he surely would have attacked you :) For the record though, I agree with you 100 %!

TLS is referring to me ASE = AllSeeingEye

"TheDude" replied a few hours later:

You may be right, TLS ... or he's drumming up a comeback right now, or I have no credibility again and he is not gonna waste his time. DOH!

I'm sick of dealing with this punk from past conversations, but I had told him this election is not about him or me, it's about the issues. So, I posted the following:

First, just because someone has a different point of view than you do, it doesn't mean they're un-American. That is nothing but fear-mongering, and the Republicans are rolling out this disgusting tactic just in time to try to steal an election by scaring people into voting for them. Yes, they're that desperate to distract you from the fact that McCain has no clear vision or plan for the future of this country other than more of the same failed Bush policies.

"They don't associate with known extremists, terrorists, and corrupt lobbyists and individuals." ?

John McCain's associations:
Rod Parsley - extremist
John Hagee - extremist
Michelle Bachman - extremist (Claims liberals in congress should be investigated for being "anti-American")
Richard Quinn - extremist (white supremacist)
La Raza - extremists
The U.S. Council for World Freedom - extremists
Charles Keating - conviced felon (McCain was one of the "Keating 5")
G. Gordon Liddy - convicted felon (Watergate) and extremist
Campaign manager Rick Davis - lobbyist
Chief political adviser Charles R. Black Jr. - lobbyist
Senior foreign policy adviser Randy Scheunemann - lobbyist
Senior advisers Steve Schmidt and Mark McKinnon - lobbyists
Fund raiser Tom Loeffler - lobbyist
Economic adviser Nancy Pfotenhauer - lobbyist
Congressional liaison John Green - lobbyist
National finance Co-chairman Wayne Berman - lobbyist
RNC's liaison to the McCain campaign Frank Donatelli - lobbyist

Sarah Palin's associations:
Alaskan Independence Party - extremists (wants Alaska to secede from the USA - Palin sent them video messages as governor saying "keep up the good work!")
Todd Palin - extremist (former member of AIP)
Thomas Muthee - extremist (Sarah Palin's pastor who boasts of hunting witches)
Ted Stevens - indicted Alaskan Senator

When people attack Obama for his associations while denying McCain and Palin's, it is the height of hypocrisy! I don't have to attack, I just point out the truth.

I know I'll just get flamed again, but I can't let their obvious lies and hypocrisy go unchallenged! There have been a few other people who post occasionally there in support of Obama, and I even got a message today from a nice lady thanking me for standing up for Obama. However, the McCain/Palin supporters are always the most ignorant, hateful and despicable people I've ever heard and their views (if they actually believe them) are simply not based in reality. Until people wake the fuck up or just stop using fear, hate and lies to form their opinions I will continue to post there as a Obamavenger™!

My Obama/Biden sign was stolen

2008-10-20T13:47:00.003-05:00

Last night some coward stole my Obama/Biden sign which had only been up just over a week. The only location I have on my property to put a sign that can be seen from the busy highway nearby is quite a distance from the house, so it's next to impossible to notice if someone is stealing my signs. I've tried to make my presence known by going out on the front porch regularly to look over my sign's location, but last night some jerk grabbed it without me knowing. Sure, it could have been mischievous kids or an Obama fan who wanted their own sign, but I seriously doubt it. Where I live (in the heart of red state Alabama) there are no other Obama signs anywhere. I've seen a few McCain/Palin signs up the road, and interestingly they're still there today after mine was stolen.

Let me just say that the kind of person who would steal a political sign because they support someone else is a despicable individual. I would never even consider taking someone's sign and infringing on their right to free speech. But, this is the country we now live in, where those with opposing views are attacked rather than respected.

To anyone who would steal ANY political sign: You are the worst form of coward there is, and a criminal. You might as well go and find a Veteran and spit in their face because by stealing a sign you are only infringing on someone's constitutional right to free speech, which that Veteran served their country to protect. There are plenty of countries where you wouldn’t be bothered with problems like free speech. Please choose one and move there. You don’t deserve to live here. Also, every time you steal a sign I will donate more money to Obama - so you are only helping him get elected President.

So, what will I do? Put up my last Obama/Biden sign to be stolen again? Nope. Set a booby trap so the thief will get a hand full of razor blades or a foot full of nails? Nah - I refuse to hurt even the idiots who would steal a sign (plus it would be illegal). Instead, I'm currently making my own homemade sign out of a very heavy piece of plywood that will be attached to a big 2x4. It will be much harder to steal or destroy, and anyone who tries will have to make a lot of noise to do so. I am also setting up video surveillance to catch a perpetrator's face or license number. Hopefully, this will end my sign theft problem, and I'll post pictures when my sign is complete.

Another alternative is to print my own signs and post them everywhere on our property. Here is a nice resource for Obama/Biden printable signs in PDF format.

The best videos of the Presidential election yet!

2008-10-17T00:03:00.004-05:00

On Thursday night, Barack Obama and John McCain both attended the Alfred E. Smith dinner which is known for the humorous speeches and political luminaries who attend.

Obama's speech was one of the funniest things I've heard in a long time. He roasts McCain, himself, others, and jokes about everything that's been going on in this presidential election campaign.

McCain was funny too, and is very classy at the end when talking about Obama. Well done Sen. McCain!

There are more parts of their speeches from the dinner on YouTube for both Obama and McCain, but I thought these two were the most entertaining. With such a stressful election this time, it was really good for me to see both candidates lighten up for a night.

Meet "Joe the Plumber"

2008-10-16T12:23:00.016-05:00

In the final presidential debate last night, John McCain threw a citizen into the spotlight when he mentioned "Joe the Plumber" - a real person who recently met Obama and asked him why his proposed tax plan would keep him from buying a company.

Here is the video of that meeting:

Obama deserves credit for being honest with the guy when he told him if he makes over 250K his taxes will increase. He could have pandered to him, but he didn't. He outlined his plan and how it will actually benefit him. Now that is some "straight talk" if I've ever heard it.

For the record, I'd like to mention that when Obama told Joe he'd "spread the wealth around" - Obama means he'll take the tax burden off the middle-class by getting rid of the Bush tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans (that McCain initially opposed but later voted for). That is his plan, not any new revolutionary socialist ideal.

McCain must have heard something different from that meeting since he brought up Joe so many times in the debate. I think he wanted to make it seem like poor Joe won't be helped by Obama's plan that he wanted to paint as socialist.

But who is this guy and which plan will really benefit him more? Let's Meet "Joe the Plumber" shall we?

From the reporting that's come out just this morning I've learned the following:

• His real name is Samuel Joseph Wurzelbacher (No wonder they just use "Joe") and he's from Toledo, Ohio.

• His name was misspelled in the Ohio voter registration database. This is one reason people worry about voter disenfranchisement with the purging of voter rolls since they are such a mess to begin with.

• He says he has no plumbing license and doesn't need one because he works for someone else.

• He is a registered Republican and McCain supporter and not undecided.

• Joe currently does not make more than 250K a year, so Obama's tax plan will actually benefit him now. As Obama points out, that means it will be easier for him to save to better afford to buy that company.

• If he does buy that business and makes more than 250K a year his taxes will increase by only 3% back to the level it was under Clinton. On health care, the company will still be classified as a small business and he'll get a 50% tax cut for his employees' health benefits. How does this keep him from buying that business? McCain will tax health care benefits for the first time ever.

• There is also evidence out there that Joe owes back taxes. Why does he care about tax plans when he doesn't pay his taxes?

• Last night he was interviewed by CBS and compared Obama to Sammy Davis Jr. with his supposed 'tap-dancing around the issues'. Not only was this subtly racist, he was obviously not watching the same debate that I saw. Obama had specifics on every issue and answered the questions in an intelligent and thoughtful manner. He plainly set the record straight with facts.

• Joe has been parroting McCain talking points in TV interviews.

• He believes, like McCain, that social security should be privatized. An idea that would have been disastrous if in place during our recent financial crisis.

• Also, it appears from one report that Joe may be related to none-other than Charles Keating! I think Joe's bias is showing.

Joe may love him some McCain, but I'll bet he's pissed now that he's in the center of a media circus and we're learning just who "Joe the Plumber" really is.

Here's a guy who basically came up to Obama and asked 'why should I vote for you if you're going to raise my taxes?' Obama didn't pander to him - he was honest when he told him that if he makes over 250K a year his taxes will go up 3% - to the same it was under Clinton. Even when he knew that Joe disagrees with him, Obama engaged him and outlined his ideas with details about how his health care plan will actually benefit him if he buys that company He also explains that if his policies had already been in place, it would be easier for Joe to save to afford to buy that company.

Isn't this exactly what we need right now in our President? Someone who is not afraid to tell the truth to a potential voter when his answer may not benefit them. Someone who will listen to and talk to those who may disagree with his point of view. Someone who speaks in specifics not generalities, and has common sense plans for our economy. Not someone, "that one".

Conservatives Blast McCain

2008-10-15T01:16:00.003-05:00

In case anybody thinks that my posts here are all just my biased opinion, they should know that many conservatives and Republicans are jumping off the McCain/Palin bandwagon and some are even brave enough to denounce their inflammatory rhetoric. Here are their own words.

Joshua Trevino, co-founder of RedState.com, wrote on his blog:

Do I believe in John McCain? Not as much as I used to. Do I believe in Sarah Palin? Despite my early enthusiasm for her, now not at all. Do I believe in the national Republican Party? Not in the slightest — even though I see no meaningful alternative to it.

Bill Kristol:

It’s time for John McCain to fire his campaign. He has nothing to lose. His campaign is totally overmatched by Obama’s... ...The McCain campaign, once merely problematic, is now close to being out-and-out dysfunctional. Its combination of strategic incoherence and operational incompetence has become toxic.

Republican Congressman Ray LaHood on Sarah Palin:

Look it. This doesn't befit the office that she's running for. And frankly, people don't like it.

Republican Michelle Laxalt on Larry King Live:

I'm sorry. This is not the Republican Party that Bill Buckley, that Paul Laxalt, that Ronald Reagan raised me on. And I don't believe the American people like this kind of dirty politics. If they can't win fair and square, they shouldn't trash the other guy.

Lincoln Chafee, a former Republican U.S. senator from Rhode Island:

Sen. Obama is the first Democrat I've ever voted for... ...As he geared up for this 2008 election, it became a different John McCain who was pandering to the base. That's what McCain is doing: dividing this country.

National Federation of Filipino-American Republicans founder Perry Diaz:

I endorsed McCain before the California primary believing that he was the right man for the job. I was wrong. His selection of Sarah Palin as his running mate and his decision a few days ago to resort to personal attacks on Obama's character and integrity run counter to my personal beliefs and core values. I have lost my respect for McCain and I believe that a McCain/Palin administration would only worsen the economic situation in the country.

Washington Post columnist George Will:

Under the pressure of the financial crisis, one presidential candidate is behaving like a flustered rookie playing in a league too high. It is not Barack Obama... ...It is arguable that, because of his inexperience, Obama is not ready for the presidency. It is arguable that McCain, because of his boiling moralism and bottomless reservoir of certitudes, is not suited to the presidency. Unreadiness can be corrected, although perhaps at great cost, by experience. Can a dismaying temperament be fixed?

Former Republican Governor of Michigan William Milliken, who endorsed McCain during the primaries:

He is not the McCain I endorsed. He keeps saying, 'Who is Barack Obama?' I would ask the question, 'Who is John McCain?' because his campaign has become rather disappointing to me. I'm disappointed in the tenor and the personal attacks on the part of the McCain campaign, when he ought to be talking about the issues.

Former Repbulican governor of Wisconsin Tommy Thompson - When asked if he was happy with McCain's campaign he replied:

“No,” and he added, “I don’t know who is.”

National Review columnist Christopher Buckley endorses Obama:

This campaign has changed John McCain. It has made him inauthentic. A once-first class temperament has become irascible and snarly; his positions change, and lack coherence; he makes unrealistic promises, such as balancing the federal budget “by the end of my first term.” Who, really, believes that?

Conservative columnist Kathleen Parker:

Palin filibusters. She repeats words, filling space with deadwood. Cut the verbiage and there’s not much content there... ...If BS were currency, Palin could bail out Wall Street herself... ...Only Palin can save McCain, her party, and the country she loves. She can bow out for personal reasons, perhaps because she wants to spend more time with her newborn. No one would criticize a mother who puts her family first. Do it for your country.

Why they want to be President

2008-10-13T19:58:00.004-05:00

Both candidates' own words show the clear contrast between the two when it comes to why they want to be President.

The following is an excerpt from the book "Worth the Fighting For: A Memoir" (2002) by John McCain.

I didn't decide to run for President to start a national crusade for the political reforms I believed in or to run a campaign as if it were some grand act of patriotism. In truth, I wanted to be President because it had become my ambition to be President. I was sixty-two years old when I made the decision and I thought it was my one shot at the prize.

Barack Obama tells us why he wants to be President in a video statement sent to his supporters on January 16, 2007 to announce his candidacy.

Running for the presidency is a profound decision - a decision no one should make on the basis of media hype or personal ambition alone - and so before I committed myself and my family to this race, I wanted to be sure that this was right for us and, more importantly, right for the country...

...America's faced big problems before. But today, our leaders in Washington seem incapable of working together in a practical, common sense way. Politics has become so bitter and partisan, so gummed up by money and influence, that we can't tackle the big problems that demand solutions.

And that's what we have to change first.

We have to change our politics, and come together around our common interests and concerns as Americans.

This won't happen by itself. A change in our politics can only come from you; from people across our country who believe there's a better way and are willing to work for it.

Years ago, as a community organizer in Chicago, I learned that meaningful change always begins at the grassroots, and that engaged citizens working together can accomplish extraordinary things.

So even in the midst of the enormous challenges we face today, I have great faith and hope about the future - because I believe in you.

And that's why I wanted to tell you first that I'll be filing papers today to create a presidential exploratory committee.

I quoted this speech because it is the earliest example of Obama expressing why he wants to be President. Full text of his speech can be found here.

I'll admit that this isn't a very balanced article since I chose only one quote from McCain and a longer one from Obama, but I believe it is fair to show their own words to know exactly why they want to be President. I mean, come on, McCain admits ambition is why he's running for President and he thinks it's a 'prize'!

Report confirms Palin's illegal abuse of power

2008-10-11T00:06:00.006-05:00

Troopergate has just blown up in the face of the McCain campaign. On Friday, a bipartisan committee of Alaska legislators voted 12-0 to release a report stating that Governor Sarah Palin abused her power by violating state ethics law "by trying to have her former brother-in-law fired as a state trooper."

The report had four key findings, written by Stephen Branchflower, the chief investigator of the Alaska legislative panel.

Finding One

For the reasons explained in section IV of this report, I find that Governor Sarah Palin abused her power by violating Alaska Statute 39/52/110(a) of the Alaska Executive Branch Ethics Act. Alaska Statute 39.52.110(a) provides

The legislature reaffirms that every public officer holds office as a public trust, and any effort to benefit a personal or financial interest through official action is a violation of that trust.

Finding Two

I find that, although Walt Monegan's refusal to fire Trooper Michael Wooter was not the sole reason he was fired by Governor Sarah Palin, it was likely a contributing factor to his termination as Commissioner of Public Safety. In spite of that, Governor Palin's firing of Commissioner Monegan was a proper and lawful exercise of her constitutional and statutory authority to hire and fire executive branch department heads.

Finding Three

Harbor Adjustment Service of Anchorage, and its owner Ms. Murleen Wilkes, handled Trooper Michael Wooten's workers' compensation claim properly and in the normal course of business like any other claim process by Harbor Adjustment Service and Ms. Wilkes. Further, Trooper Wooten received all the workers' compensation benefits to which he was entitled.

Finding Four

The Attorney General's office has failed to substantially comply with my August 6, 2008 written request to Governor Sarah Palin for information about the case in the form of emails.

The wingnuts are already trying to spin this as if she didn't break the law because the report finds her firing of Monegan "was a proper and lawful exercise of her constitutional and statutory authority to hire and fire executive branch department heads." However, before that, the report plainly states: "I find that Governor Sarah Palin abused her power by violating Alaska Statute 39/52/110(a) of the Alaska Executive Branch Ethics Act." - She may have had the constitutional right to fire him, but the reason WHY she did it was an abuse of her power that violates the ethics law, so she broke the law plain and simple.

Also get ready from propaganda from the right that this was a politically motivated investigation full of Obama supporters. The facts simply don't back this claim up. The committee was majority Republican and they agreed to look into this matter well before Palin was chosen as the VP candidate by McCain.

The "right" has already been saying that anyone involved in the type of personal matter between Palin, her sister and ex-brother-in-law would do the same thing. This is absolutely no excuse for abusing the power of your office when there are perfectly legal ways to deal with the problem if there is any truth to the allegations against State Trooper Mike Wooten.

Finding four is interesting because they conclude that Palin has not cooperated with the investigation as she's claimed. If she had nothing to hide, why not turn over the emails Sarah?

What does this say about John McCain and his choice of Palin for VP? Did he not know about the investigation? If not, she was not properly vetted. If he did know, did he at least look into it to see if there was anything to the allegations or did he just trust someone he barely knows at her word alone? Maybe he doesn't care because Republicans and corruption go hand-in-hand.

I knew as soon as Palin was picked that the McCain campaign was doomed. Now, it is confirmed. How can anyone in their right mind be comfortable with this person being a 72-year-old cancer survivor's heartbeat away from the presidency? It's bad enough she's completely unqualified for VP or (GOD FORBID) president. Now, the only experience she has of being governor of the 47th most populous state for 20 months is forever marred with an ethics violation because of an abuse of power! Does this sound like more of the same to anybody!?!

Alabama Gov's Voter Suppression List Exposed

2008-10-09T17:22:00.005-05:00

Individuals convicted of a felony in the state of Alabama have had an easier path to get their voting rights restored since 2003. However, the Alabama constitution bars those convicted of a "felony involving moral turpitude" from voting at all. "Moral turpitude" is is a legal concept in the United States that refers to "conduct that is considered contrary to community standards of justice, honesty, or good morals".

Republican Alabama Governor Bob Riley recently decided to add hundreds of crimes to the list of felony convictions that bar a person from voting based on his interpretation of "moral turpitude."

Previously the Alabama Attorney General had determined that 70 of the state's 575 felony crimes qualify as such crimes which was approved by the Administrative Office of Courts. Now, lawyers for the Riley administration claim some 480 of those felonies are crimes of "moral turpitude."

According to the Birmingham News:

A statewide computer system for the past 11 months has been noting convictions for more than 400 crimes that Gov. Bob Riley's administration deemed to be felonies of moral turpitude - even though officials with the Administrative Office of Courts said they were assured by Riley's office only a shorter list of 70 felonies developed by the attorney general's office were being checked.

Suddenly, in an election year, Riley has decided that he alone knows what crimes are of a moral turpitude and it's almost all of them. In a time when Democratic voter registration around the country (including the south) has outpaced Republicans two to one, this is an obvious attempt by the Republican governor of Alabama to suppress votes.

If you don't believe me, take a look for yourself at some of the crimes determined by Riley to be of a moral turpitude and that (if convicted) will bar a citizen from voting in Alabama. Both lists from the governor's office and the office of the attorney general can be found in PDF format here.

Here are just a few of Riley's moral turpitude crimes according to the Associated Press:

But the governor's legal aides also classified about 370 other crimes as involving moral turpitude, including attempted arson, breaking and entering a vehicle, attempted burglary, criminal mischief, possession of burglary tools and burning a U.S. flag or cross.

The list also includes absentee balloting fraud, cruelty to a dog or cat, domestic violence, forgery, killing livestock illegally, leaving the scene of an accident with an injury, disrupting a funeral, ethics violations and conspiring to set an illegal brush fire.

The Administrative Office of Courts said the governor's office has no legal authority to classify so many crimes as involving moral turpitude.

First, I don't even see how anyone could be convicted of flag burning since it's protected as free speech as determined by the Supreme Court in Texas v. Johnson. The list also adds shoplifting as a crime that will deny your right to vote if convicted in the state of Alabama. That's right, shoplifting! Now, I agree that many of the crimes on Riley's list could be interpreted as being of a moral turpitude, but some are just ridiculous. This totally kills my plans to disrupt a funeral by setting an illegal brush fire. :P

The governor alone should not be making this determination, as the Anniston Star pointed out in a recent editorial:

Maybe Gov. Bob Riley is right. Maybe a person should be denied the right to vote if they are convicted of disrupting a funeral, caught attempting a burglary or are found to have engaged in criminal mischief. If these are felonies, and if the law is interpreted narrowly, then that is what should happen.

But is this a decision the governor's office should make?

Apparently not. After months of denying that the list was being used by registrars in that way, the governor's office admitted that it erred by allowing this practice. However, the governor's office dismissed as "absurd" the charge that this was "part of some conspiracy to prevent people from voting."

This page takes the governor at his word. However, conspiracy or not, people were told that they could not vote when apparently they could. And with the presidential election less than a month away, the office of the Secretary of State is trying to find out the extent of the problem and see what can be done to rectify it, if anything.

It's good that the Secretary of State is trying to address this issue. However, the problem will not go away until the Legislature clearly defines what "moral turpitude" is when it comes to denying anyone the right to vote and then lists the crimes that fall into this category.

Luckily, there's somebody fighting for our rights! The ACLU filed a lawsuit a few months ago against the state Alabama over this issue when the attorney general tried to add to the list or moral turpitude crimes.

The American Civil Liberties Union and ACLU of Alabama filed a lawsuit today challenging the state's voter disenfranchisement laws and practices as unconstitutional. According to its state constitution, Alabama may deny voting rights to individuals who have been convicted of felonies involving "moral turpitude." Although this term is not defined, the constitution clearly states that only the legislature can decide which felonies qualify under this category. In its lawsuit today, the ACLU charges that the state is disfranchising thousands of Alabamians under a much broader category of convictions than is permissible under the constitution, relying in part on an unlawful opinion issued by Alabama's attorney general.

The Associated Press writes:

The ACLU filed the lawsuit in July on behalf of three ex-felons who want to vote in the Nov. 4 presidential election. One of the three had actually tried to register in Jefferson County, but was never given a form because a registrar told her she couldn't vote.

The ACLU had hoped to turn the lawsuit into a class-action case on behalf of ex-felons statewide and clear up the confusion over voting rights.

At issue is a law passed by the Legislature that says felons who committed crimes of moral turpitude can't vote, but other felons can. The law does not classify which crimes are in each category.

The latest news on the ACLU lawsuit is is not good, according to the Associated Press, the judge may dismiss the case.

Voter registrars could have to wait awhile longer to learn which felons can vote — and just what constitutes "moral turpitude" — because a judge said Wednesday she may dismiss a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union over the issue.

With voter registration at record levels, county voter registrars have been struggling to figure out which ex-felons can sign up and which can't.

During a hearing Wednesday, Montgomery Circuit Judge Tracy McCooey told ACLU attorneys she is troubled that the ACLU's three plaintiffs filed suit before they filled out voter registration forms and were officially rejected by county voter registrars.

"You are asking me to have a role I shouldn't have," McCooey told the attorneys. She said she would issue an official ruling soon.

I'm surprised by the lack of reporting on this issue and the fact that people in my home state aren't outraged. I've had a few serious discussions about it on the comment board for my hometown newspaper, but other that that, very few are writing or talking about this.

One of the crimes the governor has on his list as a moral turpitude is the attempt to influence an election. Perhaps Bob Riley should have his right to vote taken away for his obvious attempt to suppress voters.

UPDATE: The Associated Press is reporting that today, October 10, 2008 the judge did indeed throw out the ACLU case against the state of Alabama.

A Montgomery judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union over registering ex-felons to vote.

Circuit Judge Tracy McCooey said Friday the ACLU's clients lacked legal standing to sue. Two had not tried to register to vote. The third client had attempted to register, but had not exhausted possible appeals in probate court before going to circuit court.

If these allegations are true, I really wish the ACLU would get their act together. I'm sure it wouldn't be hard to find someone who has actually tried to register and were denied because of the voter suppression efforts going on which have been expanded by the governor. As far as I know, the ACLU has yet to file a suit based on the new moral turpitude crimes added by Governor Riley. I'm sure they'll have plenty of clients after voting day when thousands are turned away from the polls for some minor crime from their past, but then won't it be too late?

I believe in hope, not hate in 08!

2008-10-09T13:49:00.003-05:00

I just submitted this as a letter to the editor of my local newspaper. In case it's never published, it has been posted here for posterity.

In my opinion, John McCain is running the most dishonorable and sleazy campaign for president ever. He won't say it to his face, but McCain's surrogates' words and their advertising has been filled with smears and lies intent on destroying Barack Obama's character. At recent rallies, McCain and Sarah Palin supporters have been heard shouting the words "terrorist" "treason" and "kill him" in reference to Obama. This is a direct result of both candidates' inflammatory rhetoric, and neither McCain or Palin have said anything to denounce such hateful behavior.

Is this what we want from the next president and vice president of the United States of America, those who inspire hate rather than hope?

In all of Barack Obama's speeches and statements he has always expressed his belief that our country can come together and work for a greater future for ALL Americans. He inspires hope that we can do better and he knows that we can do it as the greatest nation on Earth. Obama inspires hope that we can overcome our economic troubles, have affordable health care, and use the right strategy for the war on terrorism by proposing specific and detailed plans to help the middle class and to go after those who were actually responsible for the attacks on 9/11. Obama is the personification of the American Dream who came from humble beginnings in a single-parent home and has dedicated his life to public service, and that gives me hope. He inspires hope by just being who he is at this time in history, and the amazing story of his life.

Barack Obama himself put it best in this quote from the 2004 Democratic National Convention:

I'm not talking about blind optimism here -- the almost willful ignorance that thinks unemployment will go away if we just don't talk about it, or the health care crisis will solve itself if we just ignore it. No, I'm talking about something more substantial. It's the hope of slaves sitting around a fire singing freedom songs; the hope of immigrants setting out for distant shores; the hope of a young naval lieutenant bravely patrolling the Mekong Delta; the hope of a millworker's son who dares to defy the odds; the hope of a skinny kid with a funny name who believes that America has a place for him, too. Hope in the face of difficulty. Hope in the face of uncertainty. The audacity of hope!

People have a very clear choice on November 4th. The question is, will they go with hope or buy into the lies and hate in 08?

UPDATED with video added. This wasn't created by me, but I found it after writing this, and thought it was very appropriate. You have to sit through a minute or so of some McCain supporters' hate speech then it's all good.

"That One" - McCain's Disrespect and Gaffes

2008-10-08T02:12:00.007-05:00

McCain's performance in the 2nd presidential debate was an embarrassment. He showed some serious disrespect for Obama, and certain gaffes give great insight into the REAL John McCain.

Probably the oddest and startling moment was when McCain called Obama "That One."

How disrespectful and dehumanizing! He has a title and a name, it's Senator Barack Obama, and McCain, you better get use to his soon-to-be NEW title: President Barack Obama! I believe the American people want a certain level of common courtesy between their candidates for president. They've both earned their position from votes of the people, and deserve to show respect for each other as peers out of respect for all Americans.

McCain also later refused to shake Obama's hand one final time.

As you can see, McCain touches Obama on the shoulder, and as he turns around he offers his hand directly to McCain who refuses to do the same, so Obama pivots and shakes Cindy's hand instead. An obvious sign of disrespect for Obama. I'm not sure what McCain thinks he's accomplishing from this attitude, I guess it's his strategy to make Obama look unimportant, but it ends up making McCain look like a total ass.

My personal favorite moment of the night was a lighter one after the questions were over at the end of the debate. Both candidates shook hands then stood together at center stage where they temporarily blocked the view of the teleprompter for the moderator Tom Brokaw. I believe that what Obama and McCain did next was the perfect example of their contrasting styles and could be an indication of how they will act as president when confronted with a problem.

When Brokaw told them they were "in my way of my script" Obama reacted quickly and he calmly stepped aside, smiled and waved. McCain took a second or two to react while clapping and then scurried off stage as quickly as possible in a hunched over manner. The result? Obama = smooth, McCain = erratic.

I don't usually over-analyze things like this, but when I first saw it, McCain's reaction caught my attention as unusual. Be sure to watch it several times focusing on Obama and McCain separately, and let me know what you think.

Overall McCain came off as the angry old man and Obama, as usual, was Mr. Cool. There was no "game-changing" moment for McCain and he knew it as he left the building well before Obama who continued to meet people in the audience. Obama has the momentum and will be our next president in a time of great turmoil. As I write this, financial markets all over the world are falling sharply because of the economic crisis. Things are about to get bad...real bad I'm afraid.

The choice for REAL change is clear. We must vote for "That One."

Presidential Debate Round 2 - Initial Impressions

2008-10-07T21:54:00.004-05:00

Barack Obama wins another debate hands down! My initial impression is that Obama had the answers with specifics for his vision of our future, and once again John McCain had nothing but generalities and no new ideas. The topics were a rehash of the first debate so we didn't get a lot of new information from either candidate. There were little fireworks, although McCain obviously wanted to pick a fight, and there was certainly no "game-changer" for McCain. He did refuse to go harshly negative, leaving the dirty work up to Palin and his surrogates. A cowardly decision by McCain.

From my notes here's the general message as it came across to me from both candidates over the course of the entire debate:

Obama - I get it! I understand. Here's what I'll do. Here's how we do it! (with specifics) We will do this together! (and he explained how) I can prioritize. These are the facts. Health care. Tax breaks. Real front of War on Terror. Solutions. McCain has poor judgment. McCain = Bush (both backed up with facts)

McCain - America is great. We can do it! I know how! Obama is bad. Obama doesn't understand. Look at our records. Reform. Earmarks. Spending. Drill. Slogans. Generalities. No specifics other than his past record.

I'll may or may not post more when the transcript is released, but anyone who objectively watched this debate has to see that Obama clearly won and absolutely nothing happened to slow his momentum. People want answers with specifics and plans for the future, not attacks and lies from your surrogates while you only spewed generalities about the important issues that affect our lives in such a dramatic way. McCain insults our intelligence by simply asking us to trust him even when he's running a dishonest campaign and has lost all credibility. Obama respects everyday Americans and shows that by giving them answers and solutions with specifics that amounts to TRUE "Straight Talk" and his policies consist of ideas that give us TRUE "Country First" decisions.

Why McCain is so desperate.

2008-10-06T23:41:00.006-05:00

According to Pollster.com the average of polls for electoral college votes now stands at Obama: 296 McCain: 163. Even if McCain got all the remaining tossup state's 79 electoral votes he would not make the required 270 to be elected President.

If the election was held today, Barack Obama would be the next President of the United States of America - by a landslide! That's why McCain wants to distract you with lies and smears...he's desperate, and willing to sell his soul to win.

UPDATE: Today the Pollster.com average of electoral votes shows Obama's lead has increased to O: 320 M: 163. It looks like a blowout at this point, but I hope supporters don't just assume Obama will win. Get out and vote no matter what the polls show!

The facts about the Obama/Ayers smear

2008-10-06T21:53:00.006-05:00

The McCain campaign knows they cannot win this election by talking about the issues (because they're wrong on ALL of them) so they are resorting to a desperate attempt to smear Barack Obama's character with guilt-by-association. Instead of laying out their vision for the future (if they actually have one) and specifics about their solutions of our failing economy, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the threat of terrorism, and our diminished stature in the world - they are launching 30 days of dishonorable tactics to try to make people second guess who Obama is - even though we've had a year-and-a-half to get to know him thoroughly.

Sarah Palin (like a pitbull in lipstick) has taken on the "attack dog" role by going after Obama on his connection to William Ayers. Recently, she claimed that Obama "pals around with terrorists" in reference to the 1960's radical activist who co-founded the violent Weather Underground group during the Vietnam era. Palin's use of the term "terrorist" is intended to inspire fear and can easily invoke racially charged thoughts from those whose mind immediately thinks of Muslims or Islamic extremists when hearing that word. It is simply a lie to say that Obama is friends with or "pals around with" terrorists.

The actual truth about this controversy shows something far different than what the McCain campaign wants to imply. The facts about Obama's association with Ayers are very easy to find by anyone with access to Google. Armed with these facts I will easily debunk this smear from the McCain campaign that Obama is friends with a terrorist.

Debunking the smear:

Barack Obama was 8 years old when Ayers was allegedly involved in domestic terrorism in the late 60's as a cofounder of the Weather Undergound.

Ayers was never convicted of a crime and went on to become a productive member of society. Ayers worked with Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley in shaping the city's school reform program, and was one of three co-authors of the Chicago Annenberg Challenge grant proposal that in 1995 won $49.2 million over five years for public school reform. William Ayers is currently a Distinguished Professor of Education and Senior University Scholar at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

How they're connected:

Obama and Ayers happened to live in the same neighborhood on the south side of Chicago.

In the mid-1990s, Ayers and his wife hosted a meet-and-greet at their house to introduce Obama to their neighbors during his first run for the Illinois Senate.

In 2001, Ayers contributed $200 to Obama's campaign.

Ayers also volunteered alongside Obama between December 1999 and December 2002 on the board of the not-for-profit anti-povertiy group, the Woods Fund of Chicago. That board met four times a year, and members would see each other at occasional dinners the group hosted.

There is no evidence that Obama knew of Ayers' radical past when the two knew each other.

Media conclusions:

CNN's review of project records found nothing to suggest anything inappropriate in the volunteer projects in which the two men were involved.

Internal reviews by The New York Times, The Washington Post, Time magazine, The Chicago Sun-Times, The New Yorker and The New Republic "have said that their reporting doesn't support the idea that Obama and Ayers had a close relationship."

Associated Press: No evidence shows they were "pals" or even close when they worked on community boards years ago and Ayers hosted a political event for Obama early in his career.

New York Times: But the two men do not appear to have been close. Nor has Mr. Obama ever expressed sympathy for the radical views and actions of Mr. Ayers, whom he has called “somebody who engaged in detestable acts 40 years ago, when I was 8.”

Obama campaign statement:

"Senator Obama strongly condemns the violent actions of the Weathermen group, as he does all acts of violence. But he was an eight-year-old child when Ayers and the Weathermen were active, and any attempt to connect Obama with events of almost forty years ago is ridiculous."

Sources:

http://www.suntimes.com/news/politics/obama/902213,CST-NWS-ayers18.article

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Ayers

http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D93KD6Q00&show_article=1

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/04/us/politics/04ayers.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

The Real Original Maverick

2008-10-05T02:31:00.007-05:00

John McCain and Sarah Palin love to call themselves "mavericks", but have you ever wondered where the word maverick comes from? Well, there once was a Texas cattle rancher named Samuel Maverick who refused to brand his herds. Those unmarked cattle were referred to by other ranchers as mavericks and the word eventually became a description for someone who is independent minded, a lone dissenter, a non-conformist or a rebel.

Samuel's grandson Maury Maverick contributed more than anyone to the now commonly accepted meaning of the word maverick when he served two terms in Congress (1935-1939) where he led a bloc of progressive Democrats who supported Roosevelt and the New Deal and even sought to push them to the left. In 1935 the Washington Herald labeled this posse of liberals “The Mavericks.”

Today, the Maverick family wants to take back their name that has been hijacked by the McCain campaign.

On the website RealOriginalMaverick.com Maury Maverick's granddaughter Fontaine Maverick is quoted as saying the following:

It didn't bother us when Ford Motor Company used the Maverick family name for their new car. We didn't care that Tom Cruise's character in Top Gun was named Maverick, and we were amused when Madonna used our name for her record label. It is part of the American vernacular. But when McCain and the media placed it in a political context, using the maverick label as the centerpiece of his presidential campaign, each and every member of this family was appalled. We continue to be.

Maury Maverick was part of FDR's New Deal administration, which came into power in 1932 in time to literally save this country from the Great Depression with bold innovations and bold moves. John McCain has voted with Bush administration 90 percent of the time. It is this administration, and these Republicans, who are mostly responsible for bringing this country to it's knees with its foreign policy and it's economic policy. McCain is the antithesis of what we need to pull us out of this terrible situation.

I find it really interesting that the word McCain and Palin choose to use to describe themselves so frequently has its origins from a liberal Democrat whose descendants are not happy at all by a Republican's use of their family name.

As supporters of the Democratic candidate Barack Obama, whose values are much closer to their family tradition, members of the Texas family oppose the co-opting of their name to promote the current Republican Presidential ticket.

During the first two debates alone, John McCain and Sarah Palin used the word "maverick" 17 times. So, the next time you hear McCain or Palin use that word to describe themselves, remember where it came from and how the original Maverick family feels about their use of the term.

How about some specifics Governor Palin?

2008-10-03T00:54:00.007-05:00

OK, I couldn't resist. I had to write a post about he Biden/Palin debate. If you're not into it, scroll down to my previous post for some comedy.

Any thinking person can plainly see that Joe Biden won this debate, and here's why. He had intelligent and informed answers for all the questions with specific details that made sense. It's as simple as that.

Sara Palin had an obvious strategy for this debate: If she didn't know the answer, she went right to a prepared speech. This didn't work in the few interviews she's given so far because the interviewer could ask more follow-ups demanding a specific response and the result of those interviews has been embarrassing. In the debate, Palin mostly spoke in generalities with very few details about McCain's policies. The most glaring example of this was her "answer" about an exit strategy for Iraq. Palin herself has said she'd like to see a clear exit strategy, but apparently she's yet to hear one from McCain because she had no answer and changed the subject.

IFILL: You both have sons who are in Iraq or on their way to Iraq. You, Gov. Palin, have said that you would like to see a real clear plan for an exit strategy. What should that be, Governor?

PALIN: I am very thankful that we do have a good plan and the surge and the counterinsurgency strategy in Iraq that has proven to work, I am thankful that that is part of the plan implemented under a great American hero, Gen. Petraeus, and pushed hard by another great American, Sen. John McCain.

I know that the other ticket opposed this surge, in fact, even opposed funding for our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Barack Obama voted against funding troops there after promising that he would not do so.

PALIN: And Sen. Biden, I respected you when you called him out on that. You said that his vote was political and you said it would cost lives. And Barack Obama at first said he would not do that. He turned around under political pressure and he voted against funding the troops. We do have a plan for withdrawal. We don't need early withdrawal out of Iraq. We cannot afford to lose there or we're going to be no better off in the war in Afghanistan either. We have got to win in Iraq.

And with the surge that has worked we're now down to pre-surge numbers in Iraq. That's where we can be. We can start putting more troops in Afghanistan as we also work with our NATO allies who are there strengthening us and we need to grow our military. We cannot afford to lose against al Qaeda and the Shia extremists who are still there, still fighting us, but we're getting closer and closer to victory. And it would be a travesty if we quit now in Iraq.

The surge is not an exit strategy from Iraq Governor Palin! You have no answer because John McCain has NO exit strategy for Iraq. Also, we are NOT down to pre-surge numbers in Iraq. That is a lie.

Biden then gave an excellent response to what Palin said, and he actually answered the question.

BIDEN: Gwen, with all due respect, I didn't hear a plan. Barack Obama offered a clear plan. Shift responsibility to Iraqis over the next 16 months. Draw down our combat troops. Ironically the same plan that Maliki, the prime minister of Iraq and George Bush are now negotiating. The only odd man out here, only one left out is John McCain, number one. Number two, with regard to Barack Obama not quote funding the troops, John McCain voted the exact same way. John McCain voted against funding the troops because of an amendment he voted against had a timeline in it to draw down American troops. And John said I'm not going to fund the troops if in fact there's a time line. Barack Obama and I agree fully and completely on one thing. You've got to have a time line to draw down the troops and shift responsibility to the Iraqis.

We're spending $10 billion a month while Iraqis have an $80 billion surplus. Barack says it's time for them to spend their own money and have the 400,000 military we trained for them begin to take their own responsibility and gradually over 16 months, withdrawal. John McCain -- this is a fundamental difference between us, we'll end this war. For John McCain, there's no end in sight to end this war, fundamental difference. We will end this war.

Sarah Palin's next response was more of the divisive rhetoric that the Republicans have been using to bully others into following their failed policies for years.

PALIN: Your plan is a white flag of surrender in Iraq and that is not what our troops need to hear today, that's for sure. And it's not what our nation needs to be able to count on. You guys opposed the surge. The surge worked. Barack Obama still can't admit the surge works.

That's right, just like McCain, Sarah Palin thinks that anyone who opposes staying in Iraq indefinitely is a traitor who wants to surrender. It's this kind disgusting talking point that makes me sick, and I can't even believe they think it works on the American people. How stupid do they think we are? Issues like Iraq aren't black-or-white, they're extremely complicated. The surge does not equal the entire war in Iraq - it is just a tactic. There are still plenty of problems there the surge has not addressed at all. The Iraqi government has yet to meet all the political considerations that the surge was suppose to allow them to do. That means the surge hasn't even succeeded - and there's no indication it will work anytime soon.

To all those who are buying into the McCain/Palin bullshit: WE'VE ALREADY WON IN IRAQ! Saddam Hussein is dead, they've elected their own government and we've trained hundreds of thousands of Iraqis to take over their own country's security. There is absolutely no reason for us to stay in Iraq. Who is attacking us there? Iraqis! Every National Intelligence Estimate that's been released shows that Al Qaeda makes up less than 5% of those launching attacks in Iraq. Therefore, Iraq is not the central front of the war on terror - and I don't care if the terrorists have said that it is. (Unlike Palin who brought that point up. Glad to know that you believe what Al Qaeda has to say Sarah!) There is no organized group that can be defeated in Iraq. It is a variety of foreign insurgents and Iraqi people who are tired of the United States controlling their country. Right now the Iraq war is nothing more than an occupation. You can't win an occupation.

So please, stop with the "We're gonna win" and "You want to quit and surrender" nonsense. It only divides our country and it's just plain wrong.

Obama and Biden have the best solution to get out of Iraq responsibly. A timeline for our withdrawal is the only way to put enough pressure on the Iraqi government to have them complete the political reconciliations and take over their own country's security. After two debates I still don't know what John McCain's plan for an exit strategy in Iraq is other than surging forever.

There were many other examples of Palin's inability to answer the questions and the lack of specifics astounded me. Anybody can stand up and say they'll work hard for the people and reform government and win a war but her being unable to give any details of HOW exactly they plan on doing any of that says a whole lot.

People, stop being fooled by slogans and generalities! In these desperate times we need new, detailed ideas from leaders who can express them in an intelligent way. That's exactly what Barack Obama and Joe Biden have done. In both debates so far McCain and Palin have failed to give specifics of how they'll be different than the Bush administration. That's because there are no differences.

Obama TV Season Lineup

2008-10-02T23:04:00.002-05:00

Instead of writing about the bailout bill or the boring Biden/Palin debate (where I think Palin did great if you like nothing but generalities and folksiness) I thought we could all use a few laughs.

The Barack Obama campaign now has their own TV channel on Dish Network. (channel 73)

I'm proud to announce this season's scheduled lineup of award-winning programs featured on Obama TV!

Heroes
Barack and Joe use their super-human intellect to save the world from evil villains who have the ability to ignore reality and unabashedly lie at will.

Lost
McCain and The Others search for Jacob's mysterious cabin where they hope to find an October surprise. Palin finds herself alone in the hatch and can't figure out which button to push.

Desperate Housewives
Sarah regrets her decision to pair up with an older gentleman. Todd covers up for a deadly snow machine accident involving meth and a moose. Track is beaten up in school and wonders why he has such a stupid name.

Entourage
Ari offers Barack a new deal that could take his career to new levels. Joe and Turtle cruise Sunset Blvd and catch Drama campaigning for McCain.

Terminator: The Sarah Palin Chronicles
Sarah must protect Bristol from a virile hockey-playing robot from the future who plans to impregnate her with a Skynet hybrid. Barack and Joe infiltrate RNC headquarters to stop McCain's plans that will inevitably destroy the world.

Family Guy
John forgets which of their 8 houses they're currently living in. Brian professes his love for Sarah who lets him hump her leg. Stewie battles Trig. Quagmire moves in with the McCains and tries to get lucky with Bridget.

Project White House
Barack creates a one-of-a-kind health care package that wows his peers. John complains of bias when Tim Gunn disses his tax plan. Joe and Sarah get into an argument over whether dinosaurs and people existed simultaneously. One candidate is eliminated when it is learned they are a consistent liar who can't form a cohesive sentence.

The Big Bang Theory
"Pilot" Brilliant politicians Barack and Joe are the kind of beautiful minds that understand how the world works. But none of that genius helps them interact with people, especially women. All this begins to change when a free-spirited beauty named Sarah moves in next door and tempts them with her expert flute playing.

Battlestar Galactica
Capt. McCain (callsign "Gramps") crashes his Viper six times in a row and ends up in a Cylon prisoner of war camp where he admits he will indeed be more of the same. Meanwhile, an unprepared Sara Palin is sworn in as President and immediately jumps the fleet into a nearby star.

SpongeJohn SquarePants
SpongeJohn meets a squirrel named Sarah, who breathes air and doesn't believe in evolution. SpongeJohn and Squidward argue over a comprehensive solution to the economic crisis.

As you can tell, I'm a big TV geek and Obama fan. Feel free to add your own Obama TV shows in comments!

McCain admits Palin has no experience while insulting Bill Clinton

2008-09-30T01:23:00.002-05:00

I just posted my first diary over at Daily Kos and I thought I'd repeat it here for those that don't visit that website.

New video of Katie Couric's interview with John McCain and Sarah Palin contains an embarrassing admission by McCain. - video below -

At around 2:53 McCain talks about other governors being questioned by "experts". After mentioning Ronald Reagan he says the following:

President Clinton was a governor of a very small state that had no experience either.

Obviously when saying that Clinton "had no experience either" he is implying that Sarah Palin has no experience. Kinda rude seeing that she's sitting right next to him. Whoopsie!

"You were wrong!"

2008-09-28T12:01:00.003-05:00

During the first presidential debate on Friday, Obama called out McCain for being wrong on Iraq - and guess what? Obama was right!

Here's that part of the debate with McCain's own words edited in to prove he actually said what Obama accused him of saying.

Seeing those old video clips and hearing his words makes it plainly apparent that John McCain does not have the judgment to be President.

Obama 1 - McCain 0

2008-09-26T21:52:00.001-05:00

Obama just cleaned McCain's clock in the debate. I think McCain got a few points, but spewed mostly generalities and some misleading information while Obama knew specifics on every issue and from every angle.

Why wouldn't McCain look Obama in the eye? If he can't stand up to Obama how is he going to stand up to our enemies as president?

Overall I thought Obama came across as supremely knowledgeable, serious and presidential, while McCain snickered his way through the issues when he was caught BSing and he tried to change the subject to personal stories to highlight his personality rather than his ability to lead. McCain was even disrespectful at times, which really disappoints me and shows his true character. Obama is the real deal and proved it tonight.

Seriously, how could anyone watch this debate and think McCain is the better choice?

Propaganda First!

2008-09-26T12:47:00.004-05:00

Before McCain blinked and agreed to debate tonight (even though there's no bailout bill agreement in Congress - can you say "flip-flop"?) he's already running web ads claiming he's won the debate!

Updated with image:

Wow, that right-wing time machine must be up and running. Maybe they'll go back in time and make sure Bush never becomes president!

The ad appeared in the online edition of the Wall Street Journal this morning as WashingtonPost.com reports:

"McCain Wins Debate!" declares the ad which features a headshot of a smiling McCain with an American flag background. Another ad spotted by our eagle-eyed observer featured a quote from McCain campaign manager Rick Davis declaring: "McCain won the debate-- hands down."

McSame is turning the presidential race into a complete joke and it's despicable...

Why Obama Should Be President

2008-09-25T16:52:00.003-05:00

Today I got into a "debate" on the comments board for my local newspaper where I wrote this in response to a question asking why I support Obama. I thought I'd add it to this blog since most of my posts here have been anti-McCain.

Barack Obama has the intelligence, judgment, and proper temperament to be an excellent president and commander in chief.

He has proposed extremely detailed and specific proposals on all the major issues which I support including tax breaks for the middle class, energy independence, education, poverty, healthcare and foreign policy - to name just a few.

Obama worked his way up from the bottom to (almost) the very top. He is the personification of the American dream.

I truly believe he wants to work for all the people in this country - not just the special interests and they way he's run his campaign proves this point in contrast to McCain's staff which is full of lobbyists. Obama is not a Washington insider who's been corrupted by the system and promises to end the influence of corporate lobbyists. Obama has also worked to make our government's dealings transparent to the public.

Obama will end the partisan gridlock in congress. He has a long history of reaching across the aisle to find common interests and get things done. He truly puts "country first" unlike McCain who's actions show he has only a slogan (I'm still unsure what country he's referring to).

Obama taught constitutional law - wouldn't it be nice to have a president that knows the constitution inside and out and respects the principles that founded our country and doesn't disregard it when it becomes inconvenient?

Obama's judgment on Iraq was correct, and he's still right - despite the "surge" talking points. On 9/11/2001 and in the days following, John McCain was making the case that we should invade Iraq, Iran, Sudan and Syria. The Iraqi government and now even Bush supports Obama's judgment on setting a timetable for withdrawal.

Obama's judgment on Afghanistan has always been correct. We should take the fight to the people who actually attacked us on 9/11 - not this distraction in Iraq. Also, if we know of terrorist targets in Pakistan and their gov't does nothing, Obama says we should strike. McCain opposes this position.

I'm out of space with the 3000 character limit. Do you want more?

There's a LOT more. Barack Obama inspires hope in me that our country can once again live up to the reputation of being the greatest country on Earth. Me and 85% of the Americans agree that we need change. Obama represents REAL change that you can believe in. That's not hype or rhetoric. From his words and actions and the reality of truth, I've come to believe this to be true.

McCain Suspends Campaign

2008-09-24T14:24:00.003-05:00

No, unfortunately he didn't drop out of the presidential race. :(

Today McCain finally realized we're in an economic crisis! He wants to delay the first debate scheduled for Friday and go back to Washington to help get the bailout bill (that he won't say if he supports or not) moved through congress.

I actually think it's a smart move politically, but it's pretty much too late for him to pull this stunt to try to make Obama look like he's following McCain's lead. Unfortunately for McCain, as I write this, both Republicans and Democrats are working together to reach a consensus to modify the proposal the Bush admin tried to force on them. Even the Repubs won't give Bush a blank check anymore - they've completely lost their credibility, and getting Cheney out of his undisclosed location to strong arm them didn't work this time. That's right McCain, the bill is not in danger of failing as you claim and there's absolutely no reason why you can't multitask a bit! Your presence in Washington during this process would be just another gimmick to give you political points and you know it!

Hey McCain? Even though the scheduled debate was suppose to be about foreign policy, how about just talking about the economy? Or are you afraid to debate at all?

Out...Of...Touch!

2008-09-22T02:02:00.004-05:00

After every expert has agreed that our country's current economic crisis is the result of poor regulation by our government, John McCain says this on 60 Minutes which was broadcast on 9/21/08.

Scott Pelley: In 1999, you were one of the senators who helped pass deregulation of Wall Street. Do you regret that now?

John McCain: No, I think the deregulation was probably helpful to the growth of our economy.

Errrrr...WRONG JOHNNY BOY! This video isn't from a month ago - it's from this week - after the Wall Street meltdown and the bailouts! The deregulation you so proudly supported and apparently now continue to support were directly responsible for throwing our economy down the shitter. It proves what Democrats have been saying all along that when there's little government oversight, greed will dominate our economy regardless of the consequences.

When the truth is against McSame he doesn't admit he's wrong - he lies to cover his ass. Either that or he's so out of touch that he doesn't have a clue why we're in this mess. Regardless, how can you even consider voting for someone who is not being honest or is obviously divorced from reality when we're on the verge of a Greater Depression?

McBush sounds a lot like our current administration to me. I don't know about you, but after what the republicans have done to our economy, I don't think this country can take another four years of their failed policies and disregard for the truth! If this man is elected president...God help us all!

More disgusting politics as usual from McCain

2008-09-09T22:29:00.006-05:00

John McCain has sunk to a new low and it makes me sick that anyone can support someone (for President no less) who is willing to resort to such a despicably misleading tactic like he's using in his latest attack ad against Obama. I refuse to post this lying video, but if you want to see it and read more I recommend this article.

McCain's latest propaganda video claims Obama has not accomplished a single education-related goal other than to promote "comprehensive sex education" to kindergartners. Yep, they're actually trying to make you think that Barack is some sort of sexual deviant who wants young children to "learn about sex before they can read" - yes, the ad really states this and it is a complete 180 degrees from the truth!

What they fail to mention in this despicable ad is the fact that the legislation actually supported age appropriate sex-education for children as a means of teaching them what was proper or improper touching, as well as to protect them against pedophiles. That's right - the truth is the exact opposite of what the McCain campaign is saying about Obama in this ad! Obama voted to protect children, not expose them to information about sex other than what they need to know (as appropriate for their age) to prevent them from becoming a victim.

Obama campaign spokesman Bill Burton responded to McCain's ad:

It is shameful and downright perverse for the McCain campaign to use a bill that was written to protect young children from sexual predators as a recycled and discredited political attack against a father of two young girls - a position that his friend Mitt Romney also holds. Last week, John McCain told Time magazine he couldn't define what honor was. Now we know why.

It is obvious to me that the Republicans do not believe the truth matters to the American people. They believe the only way they can win this election is to ignore the important issues (because they're wrong on ALL of them) and focus on lying about themselves and their opponents. This kind of disgusting politics is anything but the "change" McCain is trying to sell to the American people.

Whether you consider yourself a Democrat, Republican, or Independent how can you vote for someone that has such little respect for you that they'll straight-out lie to you again and again? Sounds a lot like the current clusterfuck of an administration, but hey, if you want to vote for more of the same, go ahead sucker. You'll get what you deserve from your elected leadership: the same divisive politics that gets nothing done and only divides people that should be standing together to solve the great problems that plague our country!

Alabama Liberal

2008-09-07T23:20:00.003-05:00

Looking for a place where you can check all the latest stories from the top liberal blogs and websites? Check out AlabamaLiberal.com - a site I created for myself so I can easily read liberal news feeds all on one web page. You don't have to be a radical redneck from 'Bama to enjoy this useful resource!

Anybody with ideas for additional feeds from liberal websites to add to AlabamaLiberal.com, feel free to post them in comments.

Obama strikes back!

2008-09-06T14:29:00.003-05:00

After the Republican smear and propaganda machine had their week in the sun, Obama is hitting back hard on their false message of "change" by exposing their lies while outlining specific plans and solutions for our problems.

When Obama said "Over the last couple of days John McCain said..." an audience member yelled "NOTHING".

He's saying what I've been thinking all along about the rhetoric coming from the right. "You can't just make stuff up!" - "They must think you're stupid" - "You think we haven't been paying attention the past eight years?"

It's great to have a Democratic candidate for President with a backbone and the eloquence to dismantle the right-wing talking points!

Keep it up Obama! McCain doesn't have plans - just personality.

Viva la Revolution!

2008-09-05T11:59:00.000-05:00

That's right the Republicans are leading a revolution...against themselves! In John McCain's acceptance speech at the RNC last night he promised the crowd that "Change is Coming." Change from what? The guy they refuse to even mention who he's voted with 90% of the time! They are admitting things aren't great for Americans and the country needs a new direction. They want you to forget that it was Republicans that have set the economic policy that has put this country in the worst shape in decades. They want you to forget their entire record and buy into the idea that the people who got us into this mess are the best choice for change to turn things around. Only your blind base of sheeple are buying this bullshit!

You can't just say you're for change when you have such a long record in the congress of voting for the policies that we so desperately need change from! Sorry, but people can't be THIS stupid! During McSame's speech and the entire convention they barely mention the economy and give absolutely no new ideas - just more of the same. Empty rhetoric and slogans might have worked in the past, but now people are upset about the state of our country and - unfortunately for you McCain - they are paying attention. You gave no specifics in your speech, and many of the things you say you'll get done you've actually voted against in the past. So now you're going to bring "change" huh? I don't buy it and I don't think the American voters will buy it - not when the stakes are so high.

I know how they're going to try to sell this crap. They'll say it's all the Dems fault because they've controlled both houses of congress for the past two years. Well, guess what - in case you think Americans have forgotten - Republicans have controlled the white house for the past eight years and they've controlled congress for 12 out of the past 14 years! They are the ones who have destroyed our economy, lied us into a war that's cost thousands of lives and hundreds of billions of dollars in Iraq, done absolutely nothing to help us gain energy independence and set back our constitutional rights more than any other time in the history of our country. This is their mess, and if we give them another four years, do you really think anything will change? Nope. They have to sell us on this marketing campaign because they have no new ideas - only a good story and a tabloid/reality TV VP candidate (who is unbelievably unqualified), and an opponent who has real ideas and specific plans to reverse the losing direction the Republicans have set for us all.

So after hearing all the empty rhetoric, lies and hate that spew out of the RNC compared to the real specific ideas to truly change the lives of Americans for the better, I think the choice is clear, and any rational thinking person will agree. I guess that's not who they're going after. They want brain-dead morons who think personality is more important than ideas and judgment. They want you to believe the can change themselves. Talk is cheap so answer me this question Republicans. How? Your record shows you are the same as Bush, so until you give the specifics of your new ideas (which don't exist) I have to assume you'll be just more of the same.

I didn't hear any answers from McBush and don't expect to. They think an advertising campaign can win so that's what they're going with - not real answers to the American people's plight. It's a cynical and insulting way to run a presidential campaign, and if you're buying it - you're either a partisan sheep or you're just not paying attention to the issues.

Updated with video. Watch Tom Ridge's Freudian slip in reference to McCain calling him "John Bush". Even he knows they offer just more of the same...

Surge! Surge! Surge!

2008-09-04T20:22:00.000-05:00

All I'm hearing from the slimy bastards speaking at the RNC tonight is Surge! Surge! Surge! and the outrageous lie that Obama would rather lose a war than lose an election...surrender surrender surrender. This is the same BS they've been saying ever since the Dems got the backbone to stand up to the Bush admin and their illegal occupation of Iraq.

Guess what asshats - the surge was no more than the escalation of the failed policies of the Bush admin who lied us into a war of choice (that has actually made us less safe) which they then disastrously mismanaged! As Obama admitted tonight to O'rly (who gushed that Obama is "tough" and "not a wimpy guy" - thanks papa bear!) - yes, there has been success in reducing the violence in Iraq but the fact remains that the Iraqi government has not stepped up politically or militarily to do what's necessary to secure and run their own country! We have not won in Iraq until Iraqis control their own country and our troops are home - and McCain has no intentions of doing that. Even Bush has come around to Obama's plan for timetables for our redeployment from Iraq (probably to try to salvage his historic failure of a Presidency). McCain basically has no plan other than staying the course, unless you claim speeches and slogans are a plan. If we hear any kind of realistic and specific plan from McCain tonight in his acceptance speech other than "surge", I'll be amazed! We already know they won't mention the economy...this is all they got?

Some "change" McCain pretends to represent. More of the same tired rhetoric and lies that basically says "If you're not with us, you're against us". How do you think that plays to the 65% of Americans who currently oppose the war in Iraq? We've heard it all before and are sick and tired of this insulting and divisive kind of politics (why do you think Obama is such a big "celebrity") All you've got now is your base, so you might as well continue pandering to them. Carry on!

What to expect from a McCain administration

2008-09-04T16:42:00.000-05:00

More of the same, and in this video McCain admits it!

McCain: "On the most important issues of our day I have been totally in agreement and support of President Bush."

So there you have it. No matter what lies and hate he tries to fool you with tonight in his acceptance speech, McCain can't deny his own words. He is no "maverick". He caves into the extreme-right of his party with his VP pick that's no more than a political gimmick, and he supports Bush 90% of the time. If you truly want a different government that cares about the issues that affect every day Americans and will reverse the damage created by Bush and his cronies, are you really going to take a 10% chance on change?

The choice is simple. If you think we're all better off after eight years of Bush and majority Republican rule for the past 12 out of 14 years, vote for McSame. If you want real change, vote Obama!

Palin does the improbable and accepts VP nomination!

2008-09-04T00:35:00.000-05:00

Who would have thought that a former sportscaster could read a teleprompter so well?

I won't subject you to the video of Palin's acceptance speech but boy, she's got me sold ;/ Four more years of the same failed policies with no new ideas. The same divisive politics that means nothing gets done in Washington. Completely empty rhetoric giving zero specifics but plenty of attacks on Barack Obama that try (but fail) to belittle his service to his community and his country. Not one word about her foreign policy experience (because she has none) or proof if she's ready to be a 72 year old cancer survivor's heartbeat away from being President of the United States, let alone serve as the VP at all. Her speech did nothing to answer the question we want (and deserve) to know: Is she ready, on day one, to be President and Commander in Chief of the United States of American and hold the second most powerful office on Earth. Sorry Palin, but for VP of my country, being "tough" and able to read a speech does not make you ready to lead.

If you saw Palin's acceptance speech and any of the Democratic National Convention, did you notice the contrast between the two? The Democrats want to lift up this country with a realistic vision of America where our government actually makes changes that affect your life in a positive way, while the Republicans want to tear us apart - "Country First" means "You're either with us or against us". The Dems offer real solutions for the economy, energy, tax relief, foreign policy, the environment, jobs, health care, and ending the partisan divide in Washington. Where was the Republican vision for the next four years? Not here, just more of the same which means exactly what the Democrats have been saying - a vote for McCain/Palin is a vote for four more years of failed Bush policies.

So far at the RNC no new ideas were put forth on the economy - the number one issue with voters - they barely even mention the economy and especially avoid Bush. Their whole argument is change - that's right, they're trying to steal Obama's message because theirs is so pitifully stupid and ineffectual. They say they are going to clean up Washington - well, John McCain IS Washington - he's been in congress for 26 years, and of the last 8 years he supported Bush 90% of the time! Sorry, you can't have it both ways - being real change for our government when you've been an integral part of said government and supported (and continue to support) the failed policies that have gotten us into this mess! What's worse is that they want to sell you on a 10% chance of change with absolutely no specific ideas that will improve the state of this country. You see, the McCain campaign has already admitted they don't want this election to be about issues - they want it to be about personality. That's because on the issues - they're wrong and they know it.

After watching a couple of nights of this windbag gag-fest, I have a question and some comments for the right-wingers: Why are you so angry and mean? Audience members tonight were chanting "zero" in reference to Obama. [rant]Have some fucking respect you douchebags! Millions of Americans (18 million in the primary) voted for this man and he's dedicated his life to public service![/rant] Obama and Biden have been completely respectful of your candidates even while one is going through a family crisis that's become tabloid fodder. I know it goes against your nature, but try showing a little class. I'm actually glad you're all so full of vile, insult and disrespect - it turns off more voters and only your loony extremist base likes that kind of politics.

Blech, the more I hear Palin's speech the more I realize how snarky, angry, hateful, mean and disrespectful these people are. Who the hell is she to criticize Barack Obama who has served us well as a US Senator and received many millions of votes from Americans they're running for office to represent? Most of her talking points are misrepresentations and lies - a typical ploy when you're wrong on all the issues and have no new ideas. Look for them to keep rolling out more of the fear-mongering, propaganda and hate - all the while blaming the media for how badly they're coming across.

Don't bother watching the Palin speech crapfest, instead watch the video below to know all you need to know about this pitiful pick for VP McCain has made and you will know exactly what type of judgment John McSame has.

In this video from July 31st 2008 Palin answers questions about the ethics investigation she's under in her state of Alaska where she's been the governor for a whopping 20 months. She also wonders "What is it exactly the VP does every day?".

Do you think she knows what a VP does yet, or was she too busy learning the speech the McCain campaign wrote for her?

And now, a little analysis. It seems to me Republicans are once again going to try to win by energizing their base of ultra-conservatives - which means they take the most far-right positions of all the issues and thus alienate moderate and independent voters. I've got news for them. In the past four years the Republican party has lost millions of members while Democratic voter registration is through the roof. Do they really think the sheep will win the election for them after eight years of Republican rule? There's not enough of them left. The people of this country want change - real change and that's exactly what Barack Obama and Joe Biden represent!

The REAL Republican Party!

2008-09-01T22:06:00.001-05:00

This video shows what Republicans were doing while people were fleeing for their lives from hurricane Gustav. While pretending to suspend their wingnut convention, they partied the night away at extravagant shindigs thrown by corporate lobbyists including one with a band called "Hookers & Blow".

McCain is some leader huh? He tries to get Republicans to respect the human suffering of Americans on the gulf, and they shamelessly celebrate. Why is it that when it comes to doing the right thing, the "right" is always wrong?

Palin has more experience than Obama?

2008-09-01T19:43:00.000-05:00

The Republican propaganda machine is out in full force trying to fool the American public into believing that McCain's surprise choice of Sarah Palin for VP has more experience than Barack Obama. The "experience" they cite is that she's the 20 month governor of the 47th most populous state of Alaska (practically Canada - have you heard her speak?) and the former mayor of a town of less than 10,000 people where she also served on the city council (and the PTA - LOL), plus she's the commander in chief of the Alaska National Guard - which means absolutely nothing. Oh, and because Alaska is near Russia - she knows foreign policy. Give me a fucking break!

Palin could be a 72-year-old heartbeat away from being president so they're trying everything they can to mislead you from the fact that she might have more "executive" experience but nothing she has done in any way remotely qualifies her for being Commander in Chief - anybody with half a brain can see that. If executive experience is all that's important - Palin has more experience than John McCain!

Even the right-wing pundits were laughing about the possibility of Palin on the ticket - before McCain thru his hail-mary pass and actually picked her. >watch the video

As a US Senator for the state of Illinois, Barack Obama has served on the Senate Foreign Relations committee. This alone trumps all the "experience" the right is trying to push as Palin's qualifications to be VP.

Face it folks, McCain has made a pure political decision in choosing Palin - trying to grab womens' votes and satisfy the religious-right extremists at the same time. That shows just one thing - poor judgment! McSame failed his first presidential decision and will fail at many more if elected President of the United States.

The 2008 Presidential Election is Over!

2008-08-29T20:29:00.000-05:00

Today John McCain made a decision that handed the next Presidency of the United States of America to Barack Obama! Thank you McCain for choosing Sara Palin as your Vice Presidential candidate! You just undermined your entire campaign (which has been entirely based on the attack that Obama isn't ready to be Commander in Chief) by selecting someone with less experience than your opponent. Palin has been governer of Alaska for a year and a half - that's it, that's all the experience she has. McCain is a 72 year old cancer survivor and he chose an unknown woman with zero foreign policy knowledge as the one who could be a heartbeat away from being President. I know Cheney has elevated the power of the Vice Presidency, but the main purpose of this office is to be our President and Commander in Chief in case, Gods forbid, something happens to the President. Does McCain think that of all the Republicans available, this is the best selection? Senator McCain, I agree with Barack Obama that you don't have the judgement to be President because this utterly awful choice as your VP proves his point without a shadow of a doubt!

I know why McCain made this choice. First, he's desperate. After the amazing DNC convention with the best speech of Obama's career, the Republicans needed something exciting so they pulled what will amount to no more than a stunt. I do commend them for ensuring this election will indeed make history, no matter which side wins. McCain thinks disapointed Hillary supporters will come over to the dark side. McCain hopes women will flock to this new bi-gender ticket just because Palin is a woman. This is the utmost in condescension since the Republican policies have not served women's interests in any way. Does John McCain think women are stupid? Unfortunately for McCain, this stunt for attention is further proof that they have been misleading us all along. He does not put the "country first", he puts politics first and that's exactly what Americans like me are sick and tired of and will tolerate no more!

McCain/Palin is not the kind of change in leadership we so desperately need. In fact, it is exactly the same as Bush/Cheney - inexperienced, over-privileged, untrustworthy blowhards with the exact same failed policies making decisions based on politics first, not what's best for the people of our country! So, if you're OK with a Presidential nominee making a pure political decision in naming his Vice President that will do absolutely nothing for our national security and demeans the intelligence of women by trying to get their votes based solely on gender, go ahead and join the minority of voters in this election and vote for McSame/Whatsherface! Me and the vast majority of thinking Americans will be voting for REAL change - Barack Obama!

Barack Accepts!

2008-08-29T20:06:00.000-05:00

If you didn't see Barack Obama's acceptance speech as the Democratic nominee for President, you should watch it now - it was absolutely amazing! I've never been inspired by a politician like this, and I think anyone that sees this will feel equally full of hope for our government.

McCain dishonors himself with recent attacks

2008-07-28T12:55:00.000-05:00

John McCain is running an increasingly desperate and dishonorable campaign for President of the United States of America.

Not only has McCain claimed that Barack Obama would rather lose the war in Iraq to win the presidency, he has released several negative ads claiming Obama is responsible for high gas prices (yes really) and now saying that he refused to meet with injured troops because he couldn't get a photo op. Of course, the wingnuts on the right ignore the fact that the Pentagon informed Obama he shouldn't meet with the troops and his campaign never intended to bring the media or any cameras of any kind! It's quite possible that there could have been security concerns that can not be disclosed to the public.

I do wish the Obama campaign would push back more on this "issue" and call McSame out for this BS and nonsense. The McCain ad even shows Obama visiting the troops while saying he didn't! Which is it? I guess they're so use to the right-wing freaks beleiving whatever they say that it doesn't matter what they actually show in their propaganda.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49hC9TpP_rY

I thought people (like me) were sick and tired of this kind of politics! Isn't that one of the main reasons the supposed "maverick" is getting the Republican nomination? And oh, there's that remarkable upstart on the other side who truly offers real change and a new way of doing politics without the negative rhetoric - the smart choice for the next President - Barack Obama!

Cool Site for Marine Aviation Reconnaissance Vets

2008-07-27T02:26:00.000-05:00

Marine Corps Aviation Reconnaissance Association
http://www.mcara.us/sitemap.html

Facts?

2008-07-15T18:19:00.000-05:00

Recently someone included me on a mass email as follows:

Subject: FACTS
This is important to watch!
http://www.eyeblast.tv/Public/Video.aspx?rsrcID=2036

I felt compelled to respond to every address with a point-by-point rebuttal of this 'factual' video:

Seriously? Give me a break! Some of these "Facts" are true, but presented in a completely unfair way - most are outrageous LIES. I encourage everyone to get the real facts themselves and not rely on an obviously biased video such as this or even my own responses below. Do a little research yourself and you'll see this is nothing but a hit piece. If you really care about this country you'll focus on the real issues Americans are facing and not this total BS!

I support Barack Obama so here is a a point by point rebuttal of everything from this disgusting garbage of a video:

1. Obama has a Muslim name? Why is this a negative? Yes, his father was a Muslim. Obama has never been a Muslim and is, in fact, a committed Christian. He was raised by Christians. His father abandoned the family when Obama was very young and he was raised by his Mother and her parents who were Christians.

2. Obama is the most liberal senator? NOT TRUE! Maybe the National Journal should count ALL THE VOTES Obama has made, and not just a select few.
http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/01/31/625886.aspx

3. Obama attended a Muslim school? Why is this a negative? When he was a child Obama in Indonesia (a Muslim country) he did attend a public Muslim school. It was NOT a radical madrassa - or fundamentalist Islamic school - A lie that has been continually spread by the right. Did you have a choice what school you attended when you were six years old? I don't think so.

4. Vague voting record? Interesting that the person questioning Obama in that clip is John Edwards - who has since endorsed Senator Obama. The video did not include Obama's response...hmmm. This is all the proof they can come up with for Obama's "vague voting record" - a democratic debate? Where's the facts? What member of Congress doesn't have a vague voting record??? The same can be said about McCain!

5. Obama's Houston campaign office has a Che Guevara flag displayed. Guevara is described as a "Communist mass-murderer" - a biased opinion if I've ever heard one. Here's the Obama campaign's response (not included in the video): "This is a volunteer office that is not in any way controlled by the Obama campaign. We were disappointed to see this picture because it is both offensive to many Cuban-Americans -- and Americans of all backgrounds -- and because it does not reflect Senator Obama’s views. Barack Obama has been very clear in putting forward a Cuba policy that is based on one principle: freedom for the Cuban people." So Obama is responsible for every unofficial volunteer's actions? Come on...

6. Obama refuses to wear an American flag pin. NOT TRUE! Sometimes he wears one, sometimes he doesn't. That doesn't make you unpatriotic! - Here Obama says why: "You show your patriotism by how you treat your fellow Americans, especially those ones who served.' He suggested that some politicians who wear such pins act in disingenuous ways. 'After a while, you know, you start noticing people wearing a lapel pin, but not acting very patriotic, not voting to provide veterans with the resources that they need,' he said." Wearing a flag pin does not automatically prove you're patriotic. It is your actions that prove this, nothing more - and that is the point he's trying to make. Everything Obama has ever said or done shows he loves this country as much as any American!

7. Obama has refused to place his hand over his heart during the national anthem. NOT TRUE! Sometimes he does, sometimes he doesn't - so what? Obama said, "My grandfather taught me how to say the Pledge of Allegiance when I was 2...During the Pledge of Allegiance you put your hand over your heart. During the national anthem you sing." Oh, and Obama has voted to require the pledge of allegiance be recited in schools - that's a real fact! If he's so unpatriotic, why would he vote for that?

8. Obama has attended the United Trinity Church for over 20 years. Yes, so does that make Obama accountable for everything his Reverend has ever said? I don't think so. He recently left his church because of the controversial statements of Rev. Wright. and has always denounced those statements.

9. Obama's wife said she hasn't been proud of her country until Obama started leading the race. NOT TRUE! This is taken out of context. Michelle Obama has repeatedly said she meant she was proud of the huge turnout of voters in the primary elections. Another manufactured controversy that is perpetuated by the right.

10. Rev. Wright is Obama's 'spiritual mentor'. Obama has denounced Wright's controversial statements again and again and even left his church. Are you responsible for everything that's ever been said in your church? NO. The video they show from MSNBC is not Obama's final stance on this controversy. He doesn't agree with Wright's views and has said so, over and over. To think Obama agrees with Wright's negative views on America is ridiculous and nothing he has ever said or done supports this claim. The video goes into a bunch of nonsense about the "Black Liberation Theology." To believe Obama supports this is not only stupid, it's insane! Again, Wright is not Obama!

11. Obama will meet with terrorist leaders. NOT TRUE! I guess anyone the Bush admin doesn't like is a "terrorist leader"? They use a picture of North Korean dictator Kim Jong-il - who the Bush administration themselves are removing from the "Axis of evil". The video is trying to claim that meeting with foreign leaders we disagree with face-to-face is bad. Why? Would you rather drop bombs first and talk later? People who claim diplomatic relations is a negative are fools. quote: "Obama is willing to meet with the leaders of all nations, friend and foe. He will do the careful preparation necessary, but will signal that America is ready to come to the table, and that he is willing to lead. And if America is willing to come to the table, the world will be more willing to rally behind American leadership to deal with challenges like terrorism, and Iran and North Korea's nuclear programs."

After watching this video a couple of times I realized - these right-wing nuts really don't have much to go on when trying to bring down the remarkable candidacy of Barack Obama so they go to negative insinuations and usually complete lies. I, for one, am fed up with this typical game of politics in Washington, and that's exactly why I'm going to vote for Obama.

Now, here's the only fact you really need to know.

FACT: A vote for McCain = 4 more years of Bush policies.
So, If you think everything has been great for our country over the past 8 years, vote for McCain. If not, Obama is the clear choice for change. It's as simple as that.

Sure, I got some idiotic responses, but I couldn't help myself - this kind of stuff gets me quite fired up - especially when people base their opinions on obvious propaganda.