Democratic Convention Watch: Open Thread

Tuesday, April 01, 2008

Open Thread

WE'VE MOVED! Democratic Convention Watch is now at http://www.DemocraticConventionWatch.com

What is McCain's latest "senior moment", what does Obama need to do to win in November or whatever else is on your mind.

And please be excellent to one another. We do not accept name calling or any attacks on our commenters. Any objectionable comments will be deleted. Try to be civil.

Thanks!

Previous Open Thread is here

9481 comments:

«Oldest ‹Older 3601 – 3800 of 9481 Newer› Newest»

Mike in Maryland said...: Hey Joshua,

Are you the poster who formerly posted as Mike from Seattle, the 'not now working' GYN?

YOU are the troll, NOT Rich, if you think that he was making a negative comment about Senator Obama's religion. Rich has been posting here one hell of a lot longer than you, and the regular posters at this site know that Rich is no troll.

Funny that when you began posting, Mike from Seattle (the 'not now working' GYN) stopped posting.

Funny that you had a real long discussion about pregnancy and the circumstances of Palin's plane trip here: http://www.demconwatchblog.com/2005/11/anaheim-news-updated-21606.html?showComment=1220260920000#c6642980563445965668 What are your qualifications to discuss pregnancy in such a detailed manner? More evidence that Mike from Seattle (the 'not now working' GYN) did a moniker change to make it appear that a new poster was on the site.

The trail of evidence as to who is a troll points straight at you.

Mike; September 02, 2008 4:03 AM
Mike in Maryland said...: Aunt Jean,

I think you will like this opinion piece, especially the last few words:

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/nation/politics/bal-te.reimer01sep01,0,5676680.column

I really liked this part:
"Palin won't be able to hold her own against Joe Biden in a vice presidential debate. But wait until the swimsuit portion of the competition."

Mike; September 02, 2008 5:12 AM
Joshua said...: I don’t know about you, but I define a troll as an internet poster at sites purporting to be friendly to Obama, but posts things inconsistent with getting Obama elected. I am going to keep an eye on you. You may think that this is some kind of a fraternity or sorority. I don’t. I come here for one purpose. It is not to make friends with you; it is to aid in the election of Obama. This is my final post to you.; September 02, 2008 5:25 AM
Joshua said...: I see from this post that Rich (vtslayer) is probably an Obama supporter but just misguided into continuing to perpetuate a false rumor.; September 02, 2008 5:34 AM
Mike in Maryland said...: How did the McLame(brain) campaign vet Palin?

According to this LA Times

article [a] GOP source with close ties to the campaign said that McCain aides "vetted her through Google and clipping services."

http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/front/la-na-palin2-2008sep02,0,3666723.story

Mike; September 02, 2008 6:18 AM
Mike in Maryland said...: An Internet troll, or simply troll in Internet slang, is someone who posts controversial and irrelevant or off-topic messages in an online community, such as an online discussion forum or chat room, with the intention of provoking other users into an emotional response or to generally disrupt normal on-topic discussion.

By this definition, 'Joshua' is a troll, as I know that Rich is NOT a troll.

Further, there still is an open question as to whether 'Joshua' is or is not Mike from Seattle (the 'not now working' GYN).

Mike; September 02, 2008 6:23 AM
suzihussein22 said...: joshua-There is NO WAY Rich is a troll or a PUMA. What have you been smokin'?; September 02, 2008 7:24 AM
Richard said...: Thanks for the defense, guys. I, too, am beginning to think that Joshua = Mike. In any case, I hope nobody else thinks I was "perpetuating" the Obama-is-a-Muslim smear.; September 02, 2008 8:22 AM
Vicki in Seattle said...: IV posted (of Democrats/Obama supporters):

" ... them latte drinking, Volvo driving, anti-gun, baby-hating abortionist, anti-American Liberals."

you forgot arugala! and chardonnay.

btw, I have the urge to get an NRA sticker for my Prius. Because I love cognitive dissonance.; September 02, 2008 9:01 AM
Vicki in Seattle said...: I don't think he's Mike. His grammar and syntax are not quite the same. Besides, he hasn't tried to insult anyone. yet.; September 02, 2008 9:02 AM
Vicki in Seattle said...: however, Rich is not a troll.; September 02, 2008 9:03 AM
Vicki in Seattle said...: and everyone shoud go read the front page to see what news about Palin is liable to surface in the next few days.; September 02, 2008 9:04 AM
apissedant said...: I love DOCJes's comments. I couldn't agree more.; September 02, 2008 9:33 AM
Doc Pickles said...: Obama has scared the current (conservative) government in Canada into calling a snap election, probably for October 14. They've read the tea leaves and realize that this is their only chance to sneak back into power before Obama is elected in November.

The liberals in Canada have a fairly weak leader and a divided party (there are two factions who were fighting for leadership of the party in 2006 but neither one of the two front-runners was popular enough to win so the liberals are currently being led by the third place candidate, kind of like if John Edwards was nominated last week ahead of Obama and Clinton.

Well technically we don't get to vote directly for our prime minister unless he or she was the local member or parliament. The PM in Canada would be the party leader of the winning party, so essentially it would be like Howard Dean.

The reason for the snap election is the "Obama factor"

"What has Harper's attention is the Obama factor, and the sooner-than-later date is Nov. 4 -- U.S. election day.

A possible Obama win is the game changer.

Harper isn't blind to polls showing Obama's huge popularity in Canada. He sees the power of the "yes we can" and "change you can believe in" mantras for the Facebook generation."

http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/Opinion/Editorials/2008/09/02/6633176.html; September 02, 2008 10:02 AM
Aunt Jean said...: This is for Beryl and Mike In Maryland

Beryl on your post of 12:27 am that was funny as hell poor Bill. But in all fairness I don't think she saw the pucker. LOL. Thanks for the link! AJ

Mike In Maryland

Loved the post at 5:12 am.

Palin in my eyes not even close to the class that Hillary has besides Hillary's the Party that's right for America. Not the rep. party that has no Idea.

Just goes to show how foolish the republician party is to put someone that has NO experience what so even just to try and get womens vote. NOT MINE!!! maybe some women votes but I do believe that most have more brains than that. Thanks for the link!AJ; September 02, 2008 10:44 AM
Aunt Jean said...: Hey guys got to run talk to you all later. Have a nice day! AJ; September 02, 2008 10:49 AM
UUbuntu said...: Palin's VP-nominee days may be numbered. The betting markets are already taking bets.

Sarah Palin to be withdrawn"; September 02, 2008 12:54 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Although I don't put much stock in national polls they sure do look very good today:

http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/2008/latestpolls/index.html

.; September 02, 2008 1:38 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: EVERYONE be sure to read this!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/09/02/palins-church-may-have-sh_n_123205.html

.; September 02, 2008 2:06 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: I guess this is how they decided who'd be the next VP of the USA...
(p.s. I don't play golf or have affairs - I can be VP too!)

GOP Strategist Defends Palin: At Least She's Not Playing Golf Or Having Affairs

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/09/02/gop-strategist-defends-pa_n_123238.html

.; September 02, 2008 2:17 PM
Beryl said...: I only care about the polls near November 4th. I fully expect the Repugnicans to cheat as they do in every election. If Obama shows to be above the margin of error, it will demand recounts if McCain wins.; September 02, 2008 2:46 PM
UUbuntu said...: After Obama's nominating speech and the "Only in America" song goes on, Biden comes out and shakes hands with Obama. A few seconds later, he strikes a very amusing pose (while everyone else is waving).

Here's the YouTube video of the post-convention song. "The pose" is at the 2:10 mark.

Can anyone find a good picture of Biden doing that? I found it funny when I first saw it and I haven't seen pictures of it since.

Thanks.; September 02, 2008 2:51 PM
Doug said...: Hey Bob in Van, re:

c) I have heard the recorded telephone conversation and it undeniable that there was pressure placed on the commssioner.

Is there a link to the phone call? Would love to hear it!

The conversation is already moving to McINeedACane's judgment in picking Palin. I don't see how the Republicans are going to come out of this in anything but a death spiral.; September 02, 2008 2:53 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Hahahaha!
I just received this email!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOHN McCAIN

Dear John,

As we celebrate our respective 72nd birthdays it is apparent that we have a lot in common. You were born on August 29, 1936; I was born two days later on August 31st.

While you went to the Naval Academy, I attended Stanford and we both graduated near the bottom of our respective classes. We were commissioned as Naval Officers in 1958 and each of us failed in our first marriages. Luckily, however, we both are now happily married to successful women who each are over 18 years younger than we -- quite a challenge to keep up with them, and a real incentive to enjoy life after 72.

While I cannot claim an experience comparable to five years in captivity in Vietnam, it is apparent that our Navy service has substantially affected our lives. You recovered from your captivity to become a lobbyist for the Navy and then a Congressman and Senator. After the Navy, I "grew up," applied myself, headed the University of Chicago Law Review and became a trial lawyer. We both have been life-long Republicans and we both personally knew and were influenced by Barry Goldwater. We both believe in service to our country, but have we learned to recognize our limitations?

Where we differ -- John -- is that I know that I am too old to be President of the United States. From every indication, you are too.

There is a reason that nobody our age has previously run for the highest office in the land. I am much too old to be a CEO of a major corporation. How many captains of industry have assumed the helm at age 72? And, as you more than I know, by 72 virtually all of the Generals and Admirals have been sent off into retirement. What I absolutely do know John is that I am now too old to run a major law firm or to try a major case as lead counsel. Where I used to bill over 2,000 hours a year and work late into the night and on weekends, now I am awake late at night contemplating my prostrate. It's not a complaint, John -- just a fact of life -- I just don't have the stamina anymore to work the hours required of a chief executive much less as our nation's President.

While unlike you, I regularly use the Internet, I recognize that technology is passing me by and I must rely upon others to do things I used to do well myself. While I have been in good health, exercise strenuously and play hardball in a league with players as young as 30 year olds, I am just not what I used to be when it comes to dealingwith a crisis or working long hours. Each morning as I climb out of bed my aching limbs remind me of my age and mortality. Given your POW experience and medical history, I cannot imagine that you are not experiencing the same.

I also find that my memory is slipping. I have always had excellent recall, but now and again I am frustrated by the fact that I am occasionally drawing a blank when seeking to remember a name or event. I can still come up with the information, just not as quickly or as accurately. In that connection, I often find myself either embellishing or confabulating events of my past life. Those old stories just keep getting better and I find myself telling them over and over again to the point of tedium. I also find that I am less diplomatic and more prickly than before, so I fully understand your frustration in dealing with that Time writer who wanted to know your definition of "honor." From observing you throughout this campaign I know that you are sharing my experiences. At 72 we should not have to explain ourselves and we have earned the right to lose it occasionally. That said, however, John I am not sure that approach works in diplomacy or that it is appropriate for the President of the United States.

John, we both have a wealth of experience in our chosen areas of endeavor and we have much to contribute based upon our age and experience--but I know that given our age we both have blind spots in dealing with the challenges of the 21st Century. Our experience can only take us so far -- at some point we must pay our respect to father time. That is the reason why, in business, law and politics, age matters.

John, on our 72nd birthdays I wish you well for a long and distinguished career in a role that is appropriate for our age -- the United States Senate.

With all best wishes and Happy Birthday,

William A. Wineberg
Stanford, Class of 58
U.S.Navy 1958-61; September 02, 2008 3:13 PM
Beryl said...: http://www.vaughns-1-pagers.com/politics/john-mccain-summary.htm; September 02, 2008 3:19 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Beryl - WOW .. thanks for posting that link. And there is even a huge 'Mc' list at the bottom of the page ;); September 02, 2008 3:24 PM
Mike in Maryland said...: Vicki in Seattle said...
Besides, he hasn't tried to insult anyone. yet.

Vicki,

And just what do you call his attacks on Rich? If those were not insults to Rich and others who know Rich is not a troll, I don't know what you would call them.

Besides, there is still the question of how 'Joshua' was able to comment so seemingly authoritatively on the Palin plane trip back to Alaska. We already know that Mike from Seattle (the 'not now practising' GYN) apparently would have had the educational background to be able to post such information. It makes one wonder if 'Joshua' is a 'not now practising' GYN, doesn't it?

When it comes to trolls or suspected trolls, better to err on the side of caution before giving them the benefit of the doubt. A suspected troll needs to prove him/her/itself as NOT a troll before they should be removed from the 'suspected troll' list. And in this case, the trollish qualities came to the front with that attack on Rich. 'Joshua' will not receive any benefit of the doubt from me unless and until the postings of him/her/it, over a period of time, disprove the poster is a troll.

Mike; September 02, 2008 3:46 PM
Doc Pickles said...: Here's a link to the call that Bob in Van was talking about:

http://community.adn.com/plain/node/129005?gallery; September 02, 2008 3:52 PM
Emit R Detsaw said...: I'll start by prefacing this by saying I don't hold much water to national polls for the General Election due to the Electoral College, but you can get a pulse of the general population on their reaction to events.

The Gallup Daily Tracking Poll is a run of 3 days of polling. Each day the new day is added, and the oldest is dropped.

Since today is the first day that there would be 3 days of polling since the Palin VP announcement it would reflect the bounce that the Republicans got with her announcement. The last three days?

Sat: 49% Obama 41% McCain
Sun: 48% Obama 42% McCain
Mon: 49% Obama 43% McCain
Today: 50% Obama 42% McCain

Nice bump. ;o); September 02, 2008 3:54 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Emit-

And look at these great numbers!

http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/2008/latestpolls/index.html

.; September 02, 2008 4:06 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Everyone be sure to watch this video from June 8, 2008 of Palin's pastor and her.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/09/02/palins-church-may-have-sh_n_123205.html

.
Pastor said: "She puts Jesus before being Mayor"

OIL OIL OIL OIL OIL OIL OIL OIL OIL
Pray for OIL!

War in Iraq -- "A Task from GOD"

Alaska Alaska Alaska Alaska Alaska

They are praying for Alaska because Alaska will be a refuge state for the lower 48 'in the last days'.

-----------

I FEEL LIKE I AM IN THE TWILIGHT ZONE!!!; September 02, 2008 4:26 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Latest Palin Revelation: She Never Really Went To Ireland

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/09/02/palins-trip-to-ireland-a_n_123264.html

.; September 02, 2008 4:29 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: McCain Manager: 'This Election is Not About Issues'

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/thefix/2008/09/mccain_manager_this_election_i.html

.; September 02, 2008 4:34 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: If anyone thinks the baby story is going to go away - it's not. The National Enquirer has sent the 'Edwards' team to Alaska and apparently he blogisfer is going to keep at it until the whole story comes out...

---

02/09 : Sarah Palin withdrawal reason #1;It's NOT your baby and yes Bristol is pregnant with her second child.

http://www.debatetherace08.com/index.php

.; September 02, 2008 4:53 PM
Doug said...: That phone call is incredibly damning in my view. There is a very heavy-handed attempt to direct the investigation of the brother-in-law (Wooten) from the Palin's office, with direct references to what "the Palins" want to have happen. At one point the issue of how it came about that the speaker has knowledge of Wooten's application data to know that Wooten lied--information which is confidential and which the governor's office should not have--and the explanation is "well, it's just down the hall". Good grief! If this is the kind of "executive experience" that Palin has, she is definitely unfit for the VP job.; September 02, 2008 4:55 PM
jean said...: leah,
Just a forecast.
I think Palin is going to withdraw due to the concern for her daughter's welfare, she will look emotional, and then Romney will be VP.
It will show McCain as irresponsible but corrected his mistake. Nobody is going to like this woman in a week, period.

If this does not happen the polls will really look good in November;)
jean; September 02, 2008 4:57 PM
Mike in Maryland said...: IMO, 'Troopergate' is the story with the best probability of having legs.

The Republicants are the majority in the Alaska state Senate and House, and it is the state legislature that is conducting the investigation. If the Dems had a majority in one or both houses, then it could have, and would have, been called a partisan political hatchet job. Since it took at least some Republicants to vote for the investigation, it can't be labeled as such.

Also, since the Rebublicants control both the state Senate and the House, if the leadership didn't want the investigation to go forward, it would have been stopped by use of Parliamentary maneuvers. Since it went forward, that means the leadership had some inkling that the charges might have some validity.

And with 'Troopergate', the family (except for the B-I-L, and only tangentially) is not part of the story.

Mike; September 02, 2008 5:16 PM
Beryl said...: Jean,
That is why I don't think she will be pulled. I think they are going to play the "Christian" (quotes intentional) and gender cards. She threw her child under the bus (unnecessarily) for political reasons so she will play on sympathies too.

We have a fight on our hands because there are a lot of stupid people voting.; September 02, 2008 5:16 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: At the church Palin attends in Wasilla they SPEAK IN TONGUES!

http://www.newsweek.com/id/156679

----

I am not judging any one's religion but I used to live in a town, near Dallas, that had a HUGE religious university and they spoke 'in tongues' there and those people were just down right strange!; September 02, 2008 5:20 PM
Doug said...: Hey Leah, maybe you just couldn't understand them? LOL; September 02, 2008 5:23 PM
Beryl said...: I have no problems with Palin's Assembly of God Church and will take issue with those who criticize their religious practicies. There are millions of Pentecostals, Evangelicals, Fundamentalists, and even some Baptists and Catholics in the world who share their beliefs in the manifestation of the Holy Spirit (e.g. Speaking in Tongues)

It is fair to criticize her actions in her elected capacity, however. Palin should not impose her belief system on her electorate. For example, she could ask them to pray for the economic stability of Alaska but she was wrong to tell the citizens to pray for her $30 Billion oil drilling project.

See the difference?; September 02, 2008 5:43 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Palestinian Attack In Israel Part Of God's Judgment, Said Recent Guest At Palin's Church

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/09/02/palestinian-attack-in-isr_n_123297.html

-----; September 02, 2008 6:05 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: I am starting to think that McCain picked Palin so that OBAMA could win by a landslide!

The only thing that makes sense is that McCain doesn't like the republicans and Bush and so he is throwing the election to get Obama into the White House! LOL :); September 02, 2008 6:08 PM
jean said...: leah,
I really think Romney in a few days.
I think there is a strong possibility that it is planned.
Get the Pro-Life when she says she needs to help her daughter and then you have Romney.

beryl,
With everything else coming up it is suicide. She will be the martyr.
jean; September 02, 2008 6:29 PM
Karen Anne said...: Leah,

God bless the National Enquirer :-); September 02, 2008 6:49 PM
Richard said...: Beryl - while I agree philosophically with your stance on religious plurality, I have to say that I cannot agree in this case. I do not think that anyone who cultivates ecstatic religious experiences is qualified to have his finger on our nuclear buttons any more than I would someone who experiences psychotic hallucinations.; September 02, 2008 7:24 PM
Dilbuck said...: I've been thinking today... "Where in the world is Sarah Palin?" Is she just going to show up for a campaign rally here and there and spend the rest of the time hiding? Where did she disappear to?; September 02, 2008 7:46 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: More Breaking News on MSNBC....

Keith Olberman said:

Palin family car wash closed down by Alaska authorities because corporate documents and tax forms weren't filed !!!; September 02, 2008 8:02 PM
Dilbuck said...: Did McCain even vet her? AT ALL? I only hope that she stays on the ticket till November. Along with a few others, I too think that she will be gone within the week.; September 02, 2008 8:06 PM
Beryl said...: Rich,
I will not let your comment pass unanswered in case it was based on ignorance and not disrespect.

"I do not think that anyone who cultivates ecstatic religious experiences is qualified to have his finger on our nuclear buttons any more than I would someone who experiences psychotic hallucinations. "

Some people have ecstatic sexual experiences. Unless you've never been so fortunate, you would not disqualify those who do from being POTUS.

Many Pentecostals are surgeons, airline pilots, and military leaders. Our religious beliefs and practices have NEVER put anyone at risk.

I respect everyone's belief system (and lack of it). I hope you will do the same.; September 02, 2008 8:10 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Bush aides to tutor Palin

http://www.blog.newsweek.com/blogs/stumper/archive/2008/09/02/bushies-come-to-palin-s-rescue.aspx

Excerpt:

The McCain team has hastily assembled a team of former Bush White House aides to tutor the vice-presidential candidate, Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, on foreign-policy issues, to write her speeches and to begin preparing her for her all-important Oct. 2 debate against Sen. Joe Biden.

.; September 02, 2008 8:11 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: I think the Obama team need to talk about Palin having to be TUTORED !!!

This is totally ridiculous that McCain would pick someone like Palin that does not have the experience or knowledge to hold a high office.

It is really making me sick - and I am not very proud to be an American today while the republicans are making a mockery out of our political system!!!

I think there should be some sort of rule that the VP picks have to be picked much sooner so that the media and public have more of a chance to know who the hell the people on the ticket are.

Those people/delegates that will be voting to put Palin on the ticket don't have a clue about her! The only thing that they know is that she is female and from Alaska!; September 02, 2008 8:19 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Beryl-

Of course everyone's religious beliefs should be respected.

BUT we now have a problem.

There is evidence that Palin is basing her political decisions on her religious beliefs and that is not American.

I really don't care about this 'religious' issue. There are way too many more issues that will bring her down.; September 02, 2008 8:22 PM
jean said...: beryl,
One should not pray for an action to be passed or listened too in goverment of any sort.
That mixture does not work.
I think that is the problem.
Privately who cares.
I also do not want this on capital hill.
To say "God Bless" is on the cusp.
Palin was rather extreme.
jean; September 02, 2008 8:24 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: From MSNBC First Read...

Palin Church Video

http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/09/02/1327574.aspx

.; September 02, 2008 8:25 PM
Doug said...: Dilbuck--I agree--where is Sarah Palin? If she has the chops to be VP and is as good in front of the camera as she seems to be, it would be to her advantage to have a "town hall" type meeting and clear the air... unless there is substance to the stories that are surfacing now.

The cynic in me is beginning to believe that trotting her out was simply political theater to "energize the party" with no intention to actually put her on the ticket. It's the old "bait and switch".; September 02, 2008 8:29 PM
Independent Voter said...: Beryl, I take exception to the following statement that you made, "Many Pentecostals are surgeons, airline pilots, and military leaders. Our religious beliefs and practices have NEVER put anyone at risk.

Um, that is FALSE! Look at Bush. His religious beliefs have guided his policies....ALL of them. He said that "God told him" to invade Iraq. His religious beliefs guides our education system when it comes to sex (perhaps if he truly cared about teen pregnancy he wouldn't force school systems to push abstinence-only in order to provide sex education funding from the federal government.)

I think MANY would agree with me (including our chosen candidate) that the Iraq war HAS put the US at greater risk.

Jehovah's Witnesses are 100% against blood transfusion even if it could save one's life. This HAS put many people at risk and HAS caused many to die.

I personally conclude that FUNDAMENTALISM on ANY level, whether it be Christian, Muslim, Catholic, Jewish, no matter the religion, is detrimental not only to one's nation, but on a global scale.

Just for your enjoyment "We should invade their countries, kill their leaders, and convert them to Christianity." - Ann Coulter

Now tell me Fundamentalism isn't dangerous.; September 02, 2008 8:32 PM
jean said...: Doug,
I already said that.
Romney by Friday but I really think sooner.
It was totally planned.
jean; September 02, 2008 8:33 PM
jean said...: Indy,
you are home early;)
jean; September 02, 2008 8:43 PM
Doug said...: Right you are Jean, I missed your comment when I was catching up! :); September 02, 2008 8:44 PM
Independent Voter said...: Jean, you know what. Yesterday (I hate long weekends - throws my whole timing off), I was thinking that today was Monday. It is Mondays and Wednesdays that I get out at 6:40. Tues/Thurs I get out at 1:45 and Fridays I get out at 12. So ya, today was earlier than what I was thinking yesterday, but I have someone I have to be at around 7. But then tomorrow I'll be home late :(

Bill's doing a little better today. I made sure food was ready to just heat up and eat. That and I left plenty of pain medication for him (and a few doobies - lol). He doesn't like smoking (which neither do I) but it helps him sleep.; September 02, 2008 8:48 PM
jean said...: doug,
Trying to catch up is pretty hard at the pace things are going.
I think it is going to get real fast.
Thinking logically, ok I am trying LOL.
McCain is down 6-8% and let us be safe in the estimations.
The religious extreme: talking in toungues, extreme pro-life, as my grandmother said the Methodist became swingers when it became United,this is not a bad gamble for McCain.
He can get the percentage that he needs if done properly.
This is being well done if Romney is brought in.
How well they lie that they didn't is another story.

I am not big on the "Big Brother Theory" but this is actually good marketing if they attempt this and actually have a plan.
Good chance I will delete this.
When you brain storm you usually should not print it.
jean; September 02, 2008 8:56 PM
jean said...: Indy,
If you want, what happened?
I could not find it.
What is up with Bill?
You can tell me where to go.
Any which way;);)
jean; September 02, 2008 8:59 PM
Independent Voter said...: He nearly cut 3 fingers off last week with a circular saw. :(; September 02, 2008 9:14 PM
Independent Voter said...: Jean - I posted it on August 28, 2008 8:19 PM (between post #'s 2801 and 3000).; September 02, 2008 9:16 PM
suzihussein22 said...: Church is separate from state. That being reiterized, it seems like faith is being lumped with individual extremism. I will continue to question McCain/Palin's judgement, but not personal faith.; September 02, 2008 9:20 PM
apissedant said...: OK, I tried to watch the RNC. I quit. Just wanted to step in and say hi before I got back to work.

HI!!!!

BYE!!!; September 02, 2008 9:22 PM
apissedant said...: By the way, watching the RNC praise Bush 41 is hilarious, after they bumped his ass out of office with such vigor.; September 02, 2008 9:23 PM
Richard said...: I am not going to watch any of the convention if I can help it. Right now my wife is watching 90210, and welcome to it. As long as I don't have to watch, too.; September 02, 2008 9:34 PM
apissedant said...: RICH,
LOL! I go through the same thing when my wife watches those reruns. Sometimes I hate digital cable for having so many channels.; September 02, 2008 9:37 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: First Read: Palin says U.S. troops must only be sent on 'task from God'

http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/09/02/1327574.aspx

.; September 02, 2008 9:39 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: I am outside on the patio with the speaker from a baby monitor (the other part is in the house next to the TV) - I have MSNBC on - so I am listening to the convention - but I have no desire to 'watch' it.

.; September 02, 2008 9:42 PM
Richard said...: AP - this is actually worse: it's the new version!; September 02, 2008 10:04 PM
Mike in Maryland said...: Tucker Bounds (a McLame(brain) campaign aide) got his *** handed to him by Campbell Brown on CNN Monday night. The McCain camp pulled an interview with Larry King because of the beating that Tucker took, saying, "That exchange was over the line."

Video of the on-air beating is here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qCL3G4DZSc

Mike; September 02, 2008 10:23 PM
apissedant said...: rich,
Thanks for showing me 1 positive thing that comes from being separated from my wife. ;); September 02, 2008 10:38 PM
apissedant said...: Watching Republicans give a liberal Jew a standing ovation. Is that one of the signs of the Apocalypse?; September 02, 2008 10:40 PM
Beryl said...: I can't stomach that convention. I hope it has the lowest ratings ever.; September 02, 2008 10:43 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Joe Lieberman LIED.

He said "... what is a Democrat like be doing here at a Republican convention..."

Well he is NOT a Democrat - he is an Independent!; September 02, 2008 10:49 PM
jean said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; September 02, 2008 10:50 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: VETTING
Aides Say Team Interviewed Palin Late in the Process

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/02/AR2008090203462.html?hpid=topnews

Excerpt:

By Dan Balz
Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, September 3, 2008; Page A01

ST. PAUL, Minn., Sept. 2 -- Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin was not subjected to a lengthy in-person background interview with the head of Sen. John McCain's vice presidential vetting team until last Wednesday in Arizona, the day before McCain asked her to be his running mate....

---------------------------

NO REAL VETTING!; September 02, 2008 11:12 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Here is where Palin has been lately and what she has been doing...

CRASH COURSE
Running Mate Being Briefed on Policy And Presentation

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/02/AR2008090203337.html?hpid=topnews

.; September 02, 2008 11:14 PM
Beryl said...: The Democratic Dossier on Palin: 62 Pages of 'Oppo Research' Revealed
http://www.politico.com/static/PPM106_palin_doc.html; September 02, 2008 11:22 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Obama Reponse to Bush Speech

“Tonight, George Bush enthusiastically passed the torch to the man who’s earned it by voting with him 90% of the time, and who will continue this President’s legacy for the next four years – his disastrous economic policies, his foreign policy that hasn’t made us safer, and his misguided war in Iraq that’s costing us $10 billion a month. The man George Bush needs may be John McCain, but the change America needs is Barack Obama,” said Obama campaign manager David Plouffe.

---; September 02, 2008 11:24 PM
Aunt Jean said...: hey everyone watch this link it's funny it's about campaigning. Just skip the part about Bill. It doesn't put him in a good light. AJ

http://www.peteyandpetunia.com/VoteHere/VoteHere.htm; September 02, 2008 11:31 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Beryl -

Thanks for the link :)

I found this in there....

Palin and Her Husband Owned 26 Vehicles.
Palin and her husband have owned 26 vehicles since
1994. [Alaska Motor Vehicle Registration]

----

McCain has the houses and Palin has the vehicles !!! LOL :); September 03, 2008 12:00 AM
Vicki in Seattle said...: excuse me, I just recieved an email that I'm to be awarded 3.5 million dollars (USD) by the Benin republic in compensation for something or another (ID theft? it's not clear from the email).

all I have to do is send them $500 to grease the skids, so to speak.

I may need every penny of those millions to unstick my eyes ... they are stuck in permanent eye-rolling position. makes it hard to type (but it's my new excuse for typos).; September 03, 2008 12:13 AM
Beryl said...: LOL @ Vicki

I get way too many of those emails.; September 03, 2008 12:17 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!

Palin Downplays Mayoral Experience That McCain Touts: "It's Not Rocket Science, It's $6M And 53 Employees"

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/09/02/palin-on-her-own-executiv_n_123380.html; September 03, 2008 12:18 AM
Beryl said...: Heck, I have 169 employees and a $20 million budget. I guess I should be the VP.; September 03, 2008 12:23 AM
tmess2 said...: The latest (not yet verified) info that I am hearing on the web is that Wasilla (like many towns) has what is sometimes called the "weak mayor"-City Administrator form of government.

Basically, in this form, the Mayor is mostly the presiding officer of the City Council, casting a vote only in the case of a tie. The City Administrator is the true executive position.; September 03, 2008 12:51 AM
Bob in Vancouver said...: Why would a number of e-mails to the State Commissioner pressuring him to fire Sarah Palin's x-brother-in-law, be written on the Governor's letterhead and cc'd to Sarah Palin's husband, Todd Palin?

I hope that Sarah Palin is nominated for and accepts the Republican VP candicy. She's John McCains gift to the Democrats, but she's of little use unless she's actually on the ticket.; September 03, 2008 1:15 AM
Mike in Maryland said...: New York Sun's "Gaffe of the night":

'Sarah Pawlenty'

A co-chairwoman of the Republican National Committee and the head of the committee which planned the party's convention, Jo Ann Davidson, ... refer[red] to Governor Palin of Alaska as "Sarah Pawlenty, our next vice president."

Bwa ha ha ha ha ha ha!!

http://www.nysun.com/blogs/latest-politics/2008/09/gaffe-of-the-night-sarah-pawlenty.html

Mike; September 03, 2008 1:57 AM
Mike in Maryland said...: The wife U.S. Republican John McCain callously left behind

A very unflattering article from the June 8, 2008 edition of the UK's Daily Mail. A bit old, maybe, but with some good information of what others think of McLame(brain)'s 'character'.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1024927/The-wife-John-McCain-callously-left-behind.html

Mike; September 03, 2008 4:41 AM
Mike in Maryland said...: Surprise! Surprise!

Alberto Gonzales is even dumber than we thought he was.

From The Washington Post:

- Alberto R. Gonzales told investigators that he could not recall whether he took home notes regarding the government's most sensitive national security program and that he did not know they contained classified information, despite his own markings that they were "top secret -- eyes only," according to a Justice Department report released [Tuesday]. (Why was it released Tuesday? Maybe because all the reporters were out of town to cover the RepCon, Gustav and Palin?)

- Gonzales improperly carried notes about the warrantless wiretapping program in an unlocked briefcase (Maybe he felt he didn't need to lock it in his chauffeured limo?) and

- (Best of all!) failed to keep them in a safe at his Northern Virginia home three years ago because he "could not remember the combination," (Government issue safe, Alberto? You didn't think to call a locksmith to open it so you could change the combo? The tab for the locksmith might have been picked up for you.)

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/02/AR2008090201029.html?hpid=moreheadlines

Mike; September 03, 2008 5:44 AM
Vicki in Seattle said...: because he couldn't remember the combination???? good lord.

btw, today is Palin day at punditkitchen.com - they take photos and add captions.

*shudder* good thing the polls are up. I hope they STAY up, too.; September 03, 2008 10:25 AM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Reckless Judgment Threatens AMERICA (UPDATED-Watch in High Quality)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYFkR8zYiBw

Speaad the link :); September 03, 2008 1:33 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Hahahahaha!
This is FUNNY!

*** Adult Content ***

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-QevraCQUc

.; September 03, 2008 1:45 PM
Beryl said...: That video needs to be abbreviated and made into an ad. I don't think people really know the risk of a McCain/Palin ticket.; September 03, 2008 1:55 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: The changes this week as of today at
http://www.electionprojection.com/premium/2008/presprem08.php

are very telling about how much momentum Obama is gaining.

In Obama's Favor
# Connecticut: Strong Obama -> Solid Obama
# Delaware: Strong Obama -> Solid Obama
# Georgia: Strong McCain -> Mod McCain
# Hawaii: Strong Obama -> Solid Obama
# Illinois: Strong Obama -> Solid Obama
# Iowa: Weak Obama -> Mod Obama
# Maine: Strong Obama -> Solid Obama
# Maryland: Strong Obama -> Solid Obama
# Minnesota: Weak Obama -> Mod Obama
# Missouri: Mod McCain -> Weak McCain
# Ohio: Weak McCain -> Weak Obama
# South Dakota: Strong McCain -> Mod McCain
# Virginia: Weak McCain -> Weak Obama

In McCain's Favor
# None

.; September 03, 2008 2:00 PM
Beryl said...: Why is it that CNN has been running so much lower than the other polls:

RCP Average Obama +5.8
Gallup Obama +6
Rasmussen Obama +5
Hotline/FD Obama +9
CNN Obama +1
CBS News Obama +8; September 03, 2008 2:50 PM
UUbuntu said...: Leah -- nice video (the reckless one). I agree with Beryl that it should be shortened, but part of it's power is the relentlessness of the interviews, so that by the 10 minute mark the message is clear.

And Beryl -- two possible reasons for the CNN difference. 1 -- different time, and 2 - different methodology. Keep in mind that most media outlets will try to promote the "bounce" as much as possible so that they can talk about "momentum". Static polls don't sell airtime, but variable polls do.

Right now, we're in the halftime portion of the game. Any intermediate score (poll number) changes between 25-August (before the conventions begin) and 15-Sept (a week after the conventions end) will be full of movement with little significance. We can only (ONLY) evaluate the outcome after 15-Sept and compare it with the pre-convention polls (which had Obama by 1-2 points). These 8-10 point numbers, while nice to read, are meaningless.; September 03, 2008 3:04 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: CNN's polls and electoral map have always leaned AWAY from Obama.

I'm sure much of that comes from the higher ups in the company.

Also Foxnews in the past was always leaning towards McCain... haven't looked at their polls lately.; September 03, 2008 3:10 PM
Beryl said...: http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/09/02/obama-hits-50-percent-in-new-gallup-poll/

I normally don't let Faux News into my house.; September 03, 2008 3:16 PM
jean said...: I just want my early Christmas present.
To hear HRC comment on Palin's qualifications for VP.
I want to hear what she really feels.
I really feel that there is an agreement with Obama and HRC on many things since he is the nominee.
This makes total sense, he is the nominee.
Boy I wish that he would just let her say her piece.
jean; September 03, 2008 3:21 PM
Beryl said...: Jean,
I agree. I proposed to the campaign last week that they take the 3 women on the road:

1. Jill - speak about her husband and dedication & introduce Michelle
2. Michelle - speak about her husband and introduce HRC
3. HRC - speak about whatever she wants and send Palin back to AK.; September 03, 2008 3:30 PM
Beryl said...: Jean - what is keeping HRC from speaking. It isn't Obama.; September 03, 2008 3:31 PM
jean said...: beryl,
Obama is the nominee.
I already said really to many times LOL.
I think there is an agreement on her speaking.
Obama's campaign is in charge of pretty much everything.
A renegade democrat speaking their mind is not on the agenda.
HRC is doing this out of respect for his campaign.
That is what I think is going on.
HRC would rip Palin to shreds.
That joy is being saved, as it should be, for Biden.
jean
I just hope they at least give HRC one piece;); September 03, 2008 3:37 PM
jean said...: beryl,
I do love that line up.
I still think that Palin will withdrawal by Friday.
Not much time to have any fun.
jean; September 03, 2008 3:46 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Well here is a thought.

If the baby is Sarah Palin's then she will have the baby with her on the campaign trail with her.

The baby apparently is being breast fed.

If Sarah leaves the baby at home in Alaska while she is on the campaign trail then my guess is that it really is Bristol's baby.

And if Sarah is the mother and leaves the baby in Alaska then what does that say?

I think that the VP pick was so very rushed that no one really thought anything out at all.; September 03, 2008 3:52 PM
Richard said...: Of you look closely at the CNN poll, you will notice that there are almost no undecideds. This is because CNN leans on its respondents to choose a candidate. If someone initially answers that they are undecided, CNN will ask them whom they are leaning toward. If that yields no results, they will ask once again in another way.

This means that low-info voters who haven't even been following the election are being cajoled into answering, and those are probably more likely to pick McCain because they still don't know enough about Obama. Those voters don't really even start watching until September or October.

I would also point out that CNN's numbers for Obama are consistent with other pollsters; they're just getting higher numbers for McCain because of their different techniques.; September 03, 2008 3:53 PM
jean said...: leah,
The breast pump thing does work.
Worked with an exec at a convention and she shipped it in ice for 5 days.
Do I think that Palin would do it?
No.
jean; September 03, 2008 3:59 PM
Karen Anne said...: http://blog.indecision2008.com/2008/09/03/stephen-colbert-wants-sarah-palin-for-president; September 03, 2008 4:04 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: As I said elsewhere on DCW...

You can bet your boots that Hillary is preparing like crazy for the campaign trail. She is not going to let Palin steal all of her glory. Hillary did all the work and for another woman especially a republican to take all the benefits isn't going to fly!
----
Also, I think AFTER the convention we will hear from Hillary. The Obama folks know when the 'right' time to do things are. During the convention is not the time. They need to let Palin have her time at the convention... let things settle a bit then come out fighting!

I think that Palin has no idea what she has gotten herself into :); September 03, 2008 4:05 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: GOP Consultant: "I Love John McCain To Death, But This Is The Stupidest Thing In The World"

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/09/03/campaign-adwatch-alaska-m_n_123597.html

.; September 03, 2008 4:09 PM
Independent Voter said...: Hey there, just eating lunch, and my next class doesn't start until 4. UGH! I hate down time at school. There's too much time between classes but not enough time to go anywhere and get anything done :(

Anyway, about the Hillary thing, I wish that Obama had sent her to the RNC to rebut their convention activities like the Republicans did last week at the DNC. The reason I say this is because James Carville and Paul Begala seem to be getting WAY too much airtime and they are both HORRIBLE at defending Obama and being attack dogs simply because they were not behind Obama during the primary season.

As far as Hillary, I'm sure that she is out there campaigning, like she was before the convention. But remember, 90% of the campaign stops that she attended before the convention were not covered by the MSM. The only ones that that they did cover were those that she and Obama appeared at together.; September 03, 2008 4:19 PM
Independent Voter said...: Oops - I guess I should have clarified 4PM Pacific Time.; September 03, 2008 4:19 PM
tmess2 said...: Apparently according to McCain's new campaign manager and Karl Rove disciple, it's not right for the media to dig up background on Palin. According to him, the McCain campaign did a thorough job looking into her background and we just need to let these questions go.

Think I have heard that one before from the GOP.; September 03, 2008 4:23 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Indy -

No Hillary is not out on the trail yet.
When she heads out it will be listed in the events section on Obama's website.

Only Obama and Biden are out there right now.; September 03, 2008 4:23 PM
Judy Bienvenu said...: Did you feel it?

About noon today there was a definite shift in the political winds. Since the primary campaign season began (three thousand years ago) there was a definite trend towards unity of people from all walks of life. I think people grew tired of being divided and forced into an “us against them” way of framing political issues. Who knows, that may’ve been a part of why Obama is so appealing to so many from so many different lifestyles. After months of sticking to his message it was really beginning to gain momentum across the U.S. The wind shifted today.

No matter where people stood on issues, they were beginning to see the appeal of working together through the issues and actually making progress for once. Like in Obama’s acceptance speech…. We may not agree on freedom of choice, but surely we can all agree on reducing teenage pregnancy.

The economy, wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and failed policies of the past 8 years are no longer the topic of the 24-hour news cycle. John McCain’s VP pick has put new cracks in the “us against them mentality” and moved it to the forefront once again. Sound bites, pundits, campaign spokespersons and even mainstream media’s news coverage have stopped covering all the issues that brought us to this point. Now, it’s all about Palin being attacked unfairly and how she’s a victim of gender bias and unfair vetting by the national press.

After all this time, it’s all about the “us against them”-type of politics again. After all this time, we’re right back to where we started. How depressing.; September 03, 2008 4:24 PM
Independent Voter said...: Thanks for the info Leah.; September 03, 2008 4:39 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Karen Anne-

That Colbert video is great!!!

.; September 03, 2008 4:43 PM
Beryl said...: This must go viral
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrG8w4bb3kg; September 03, 2008 4:45 PM
Vicki in Seattle said...: IV, totally understand about the "too long between classes" - even living about 3 miles from campus, 2 hours is not quite long enough to go home for lunch and a nap, but too long to sit in the cafeteria.

although it's great for getting the easy homework out of the way - just crank through it and boom! done.

Aunt Judy, not entirely clear on your point - are you saying that the political shift is towards unity, but that McCain is trying to drive wedges back in between us again? I *think* that's what you meant. if so, I agree - he is attempting to create division for the sake of, well, winning.; September 03, 2008 4:46 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; September 03, 2008 4:53 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Beryl-

It's front page news TOP HEADLINE at Huffington Post --- it will be ALL over the news now!!!; September 03, 2008 4:57 PM
Beryl said...: Who do you think will leave the campaign first, the pundits or Sarah?; September 03, 2008 5:03 PM
Judy Bienvenu said...: V in Seattle -- Yep, I guess I didn't state that clear. Too many tears in my eyes. It's the wedge thing...driving it deeper and deeper with the Palin pick. It's the 'us or them' thing again.

FYI - Enjoyed the You Tube clip of the conservative pundits caught on microphone. I'm doing my part to make it go viral and put those fools out of a job. How can the sit there look at the camera and lie!! They should be banned from all broadcasts and labled as liars!; September 03, 2008 5:08 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: New CNN/Time state polls...

Ohio Obama 47, McCain 45
Obama +2

Minnesota Obama 53, McCain 41
Obama +12

Iowa Obama 55, McCain 40
Obama +15

YAHOOOOOOO!!!!; September 03, 2008 5:10 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Aunt Judy-

I disagree. I think that we should give Noonan and Murphy an award!!!

I wonder if they did it on purpose to out the republicans!

Obama-Biden '08; September 03, 2008 5:13 PM
Mike in Maryland said...: Beryl said...
. . . what is keeping HRC from speaking.

One of the traditions of American politics is that during the conventions, the party that is NOT having a convention that week stays low to allow the other party to have their say, then the same thing (in the opposite direction) when the other party has their convention.

This year, the McLame(brain) campaign tried to stomp all over the Democratic Convention all week. The Obama campaign is being traditional, and respecting the Republicans by allowing them to have their convention in relative peace.

I expect that Hillary will be going out big time starting this weekend until the election. It's a bit easier to let the Repigs try to build Palin up a bit, then use their own words back at them to fill the voter's minds with all kinds of questions about the 'qualifications' of that candidate.

Just my opinion. But hopefully this is what is going on (and I really think it is) - peace and quiet this week from Obama per political tradition, then when the Repig convention is finished, let all the guns roar.

Mike; September 03, 2008 5:47 PM
Kujo said...: I would like some conformation on what books Palin tried to have banned. I have heard it was the Harry Potter Books. Anyone else hear anything?; September 03, 2008 5:55 PM
Mike in Maryland said...: Phillip Butler, former classmate of John McCain, and fellow POW, says McCain is "not cut out to be President".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KjsEs46C70; September 03, 2008 6:09 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: None of the articles I've read mention book titles.

Most are like this below...

Palin continued to inject religious beliefs into her policy at times. "She asked the library how she could go about banning books," he says, because some voters thought they had inappropriate language in them. "The librarian was aghast." That woman, Mary Ellen Baker, couldn't be reached for comment, but news reports from the time show that Palin had threatened to fire Baker for not giving "full support" to the mayor.

------; September 03, 2008 6:21 PM
Karen Anne said...: You can't make this stuff up -

"Jamie Lynn Spears has reached out to Bristol Palin with a baby present. Spears, 17, recently gave birth to a baby girl Maddie with her 19-year-old fiance Casey Aldridge. Bristol is expecting in December with boyfriend/fiance Levi Johnston.

The 17-year-old "Zoey 101" star and new mom sent a gift of $60 pink burp cloths to the pregnant, unwed, 17-year-old daughter of vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin -- and along with it, a message of teen mom solidarity."; September 03, 2008 6:35 PM
Kujo said...: I think it is interesting that this Palin thing happens in this election.

The democrats were criticized for the way there primary system worked (Super delegates, no take all states...)

Now if the Republican's had the same system, I would believe the Republican SuperDelegates would nominate Romney/Huckabee.; September 03, 2008 6:37 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Now what is going on?
I have not heard anyone talk about an affair?
Is McCain making up stories now?
-----

McCain camp denies Palin affair, threatens lawsuit

Posted: 05:45 PM ET

ST. PAUL (CNN) – A senior adviser to John McCain’s campaign threatened a lawsuit against the National Enquirer Wednesday over “baseless attacks” in a cover story about Sarah Palin that included allegations of marital infidelity.

“The smearing of the Palin family must end,” said senior adviser Steve Schmidt. “The allegations contained on the cover of the National Enquirer insinuating that Governor Palin had an extramarital affair are categorically false. It is a vicious lie.

“Governor Palin is the most popular governor in the country. She is a proven leader, an accomplished executive, a champion for ethics reform, and a fighter against corruption. The efforts of the media and tabloids to destroy this fine and accomplished public servant are a disgrace. The American people will reject it.

He also said that “legal action will be considered with regard to this disgraceful smear.”

Over the past few days, the McCain campaign has issued increasingly aggressive responses to rumors about the presumptive Republican VP nominee, including some detailed public statements denying sensational stories that had not previously been reported by any mainstream media organizations.; September 03, 2008 6:38 PM
jean said...: I talk with the kids about politics.
They gave the official word on Palin.
KOOK.
I thought they did a pretty good job in describing her.
jean
They also said no problem with banning their Honor Physics Books.
So take it with a grain of salt.; September 03, 2008 6:41 PM
Kujo said...: Palin did in fact fire the librarian, but due to people of the town raising havoc, she re-instated the librarian.; September 03, 2008 6:41 PM
jean said...: kujo,
KOOK.; September 03, 2008 6:44 PM
Judy Bienvenu said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; September 03, 2008 6:53 PM
Judy Bienvenu said...: Palin DID win a Miss Congeniality award according to the Miss Alaska Pageant website.

"In 1984, Palin was chosen as Miss
Wasilla and went on to become the 1st runner-up in the Miss Alaska
Pageant and received the Miss Congeniality award the same year. Her husband, Todd Palin was a judge in the 2008 Miss Alaska Pageant."

One sort of ironic thing on that website is the photo of the pageant winner that Palin lost to in 1984. As far as I can tell, it's the only African-American woman who ever won a Miss Alaska Pageant. To be fair, they're not showing the most recent winners.

See for yourselves: http://www.missalaskapageant.com/50yearsofmissalaska.html

Look for year 1984; September 03, 2008 6:56 PM
Judy Bienvenu said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; September 03, 2008 7:36 PM
Judy Bienvenu said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; September 03, 2008 7:41 PM
Judy Bienvenu said...: Whew! Looks like the Obama camp sensed that same "change in the wind" I was picking up on today. Luckily they are circling the wagons and already responding and planning. I feel TONS better now. I should've known they'd be all over it!!

Here's a small part of the article from www.barackobama.com:

"....He doesn't want Americans to notice that the Republican platform is the most extreme we've ever seen -- opposing stem cell research, denying a woman's right to choose no matter what the circumstance, and continuing to spend $10 billion a month in Iraq.

With so much at stake, we can't allow another election to be determined by petty and divisive political tactics....
....The McCain campaign is trying to distract voters from the real issues -- so we're going to focus on what they're trying to hide...."

http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/amandascott/gG5v24; September 03, 2008 7:44 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Palin Aide Refuses to Cooperate With Troopergate Investigation

http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/09/03/palin-aide-refuses-to-cooperate-with-troopergate-investigation/

.; September 03, 2008 8:32 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: ** Husband's business partner **

McCain Camp Battles National Enquirer Over Alleged Palin Affair

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/09/03/mccain-camp-battles-natio_n_123696.html

----

Hmmmm.. they were right about Edwards!; September 03, 2008 8:34 PM
Mike in Maryland said...: Beryl said...
Why is it that CNN has been running so much lower than the other polls. . . .

Beryl,

I've been searching for the internals of the CNN/Opinion Research Corp. poll, but can't find it yet.

One thing I noticed is that the CNN poll has 97% of the respondents deciding, while the others have from 5% to 10% undecided. That means the CNN poll is forcing people to say who they would vote for. It's one thing to push a voter to decide, but CNN seems to be pushing very, very hard.

If a voter is undecided immediately before the election, it's because they usually are not happy with the current situation, but have questions about the challenger. Unless things improve dramatically very close to the election, the undecideds usually break for the challenger rather than the incumbent, or the person representing the incumbent party.

If the person has questions about the challenger, making them undecided, then if pushed, they will overcome their reticence to vote against the incumbent and say they support the incumbent (or incumbent party's candidate). However, as they get more information that answers questions about the challenger, they will become more and more likely to vote for the challenger, especially if the conditions that made them reticent about the current incumbent stay the same or worsen.

CNN, by pushing and pushing the voter to answer the question of which candidate will get their vote, distorts the true picture of the race.

Also, CNN might not be profiling the likely voter scenarios correctly. What if they are estimating AA turnout 2% less than the other pollsters? That would lower Obama's numbers.

What if they are overestimating the 65 year old + turnout a couple of per cent? That would lower Obama's numbers.

What if they are underestimating the younger than 29 turnout a couple of per cent? That would lower Obama's numbers.

If I can find the actual poll, I'll also be able to get a better understanding of how the poll was conducted - were the first questions about which candidate does the voter support, or were there several 'lead-in' questions that might have 'framed' the poll, thus leading to a distortion of responses? Such questions of which party will better protect the US from terrorism; Are you in favor of more drilling for oil; Are you in favor of cutting taxes; etc. Depending on whether there are questions, and how they are phrased, could make a big difference in how people respond, especially the undecideds.

Mike; September 03, 2008 8:47 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: From Politico.com

A bit of news getting lost in the convention hubbub:

The ranking Republican on the Senate Finance Committee is seeking information from the nonprofit University of Chicago Medical Center about jobs held by Sen. Barack Obama's wife and one of the senator's best friends.

-----

Those Republicans are slime!; September 03, 2008 8:51 PM
Mike in Maryland said...: Leah,

With the ranking Republican on the Senate Finance Committee seeking that type of information, does that mean that Repig families can't be discussed, but Dem families can?

Bad move on their part, as it could open up an inquiry into Cindy McCain's finances. And John McLame(brain) doesn't want that to happen. What are they hiding?

Mike; September 03, 2008 9:49 PM
Beryl said...: Have you all noticed how McCain's adopted daughter is always missing from photos?

Well, she will show up (finally) at the convention, I hear. Here is a photo I found on another forum:
http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/5315/animatedsarahpalin4400yr5.gif; September 03, 2008 9:51 PM
Doug said...: OMG--check out Peggy Noonan's attempt to explain away her comment that "it's over"

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122044753790594947.html?mod=todays_columnists

The heat from her face practically burns through the screen!; September 03, 2008 10:14 PM
apissedant said...: I hate this woman. Just had to come in and post it. You see they dragged the baby's daddy out for the convention? CLASSY.; September 03, 2008 10:32 PM
Lori said...: Is it me, or is everyone just cruising past the fact that the Palin lied to the school system for five months? (the mono story)

Either that they used her gov't position to coerce the schools into accepting that story.

Either way, it shows that her professional/personal integrity is much less important to her than the neighbors finding out her daughter is pregnant.

I am leaning toward the idea that the Republicans never wanted this woman-they chose her knowing she'd never make it to the nomination. It shows that they are so enlightened, but "it just didn't work out this time."

Ouch-someone get Vicki in Seattle to help me with this eyeroll injury

(my first post here-so glad to take part in some discussions! thanks); September 03, 2008 10:33 PM
Independent Voter said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; September 03, 2008 10:39 PM
Independent Voter said...: p'd ant - I personally don't care too much for her either, and while I'm at it, would you PLEASE change the picture? I know you wish you had legs like that, but I'm really getting tired of seeing her face everywhere! I would rather not come on here and have to look at her here too.

Thanks in advance.

EW! I had a HUGE typo and noticed it after I posted it. It was one that really made me just about throw up just thinking about it.; September 03, 2008 10:41 PM
apissedant said...: Dave,
You just said you come on her.

=)

Does Bill know about this?; September 03, 2008 10:42 PM
Independent Voter said...: Oh and WELCOME Lori.; September 03, 2008 10:42 PM
Dilbuck said...: Sweet, just got the I am republican and therefore ignore any problems with the country mantra. Her and McCain fit in well together.

Is this where she tries to talk experience?; September 03, 2008 10:43 PM
Independent Voter said...: UGH! I was hoping I caught it before anyone noticed. UGH!

GROSS!; September 03, 2008 10:43 PM
Aunt Jean said...: Oh my God when is this boring woman going to start saying something important.

She sure does play the special need baby thing to the hilt.

This woman [Palin] is unbelievable!!!

If anyone vote for this dumbass has their head screwed on wrong! AJ; September 03, 2008 10:46 PM
apissedant said...: When she was mayor she had power. That is all she said. That was her explanation of the job. HUH!??!

For some reason this stupid speech is going to play well, but it shouldn't. There is no substance or explanation. The child is no longer in the daughter's arms... out of no where, and the douche bag boyfriend has miraculously appeared. This is so fake and scripted I want to puke.; September 03, 2008 10:47 PM
suzihussein22 said...: Mike says-If Palin isn't awake at 3 a.m. to know what her daughter's up to, then how's she gonna be able to react when the phone rings in the WH at 3 a.m.? ;)

She just said her family's always been proud of America, blah, blah, etc. Mrs. Bush should rebuke that.

The kid gloves are off now, Palin. Why can't you make those snide remarks directly to Obama and not in third person?; September 03, 2008 10:47 PM
Independent Voter said...: Ok so Rudy was making fun of Obama for being a community organizer, but Palin being a PTA mom is an actual accomplishment?; September 03, 2008 10:47 PM
Independent Voter said...: THANK YOU p'd ant for changing the pic.; September 03, 2008 10:48 PM
Independent Voter said...: Everywhere he goes, no matter who's listening, John McCain is the same man? I wonder if that means that she's about to be called a Cunt also.

Excuse the phrasing, but those ARE John McCain's words.; September 03, 2008 10:50 PM
Independent Voter said...: Did anyone else notice all the empty seats in the arena?; September 03, 2008 10:51 PM
Beryl said...: Lori,
I've been noticing this as well. The Repigs successfully diverted our attention to daughter by bringing up her pregnancy under the guise of "dispelling a rumor on liberal blogs".

Instead of looking at SARAH'S judgment in many areas,
http://www.politico.com/static/PPM106_palin_doc.html
they caused people to talk about a teenage pregnancy so they can claim, "Foul!"

Clever and evil are those Republicans.; September 03, 2008 10:54 PM
Independent Voter said...: She put the luxury jet on e-bay? Did Cindy buy it?; September 03, 2008 10:54 PM
suzihussein22 said...: You are NO Hillary Clinton or NO Mrs. Cleaver. Quit sounding like a hall monitor.

I don't buy it gal...at the expense of our wildlife and planet.; September 03, 2008 10:55 PM
Independent Voter said...: OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08
OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08 OBAMA - BIDEN '08; September 03, 2008 10:56 PM
suzihussein22 said...: OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08; September 03, 2008 10:56 PM
Independent Voter said...: I'm not buying it either soft.; September 03, 2008 10:57 PM
apissedant said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; September 03, 2008 10:58 PM
suzihussein22 said...: Btw, welcome lori.

vicki-I thought of you when I read about Noonan.; September 03, 2008 10:59 PM
apissedant said...: Being an Alaskan makes you an expert on oil apparently.

I'm from Michigan, anyone need car repairs?; September 03, 2008 10:59 PM
Independent Voter said...: Hmmmmmm, so now the plan that she touted (Obama's plan) she is now ridiculing?

I'm sorry you guys, this woman is going down. I don't care if it comes across as sexist, but this woman is really pissing me off.; September 03, 2008 11:00 PM
suzihussein22 said...: Government is too big. Veto the Patriot Act. Reduce Homeland Security. Quit taking social security, McCain as wealthy as you are, $5 mil. times 20.; September 03, 2008 11:01 PM
Mike in Maryland said...: Doug,

Did you notice in that WSJ article, Noonan cited herself as calling McNeeds-A-Cane an old man?

In fact, at an on-the-record press symposium on the campaign on Monday, when all of those on the panel were pressed to predict who would win, I said that I didn't know, but that we just might find "This IS a country for old men."

An 'on-the-record press symposium' where one of McNeeds-A-Cane's sycophants calls him an 'old man'? Is the age question (and thus problem for McNeeds-A-Cane) now out in the open?

NICE!

Mike; September 03, 2008 11:03 PM
suzihussein22 said...: iv dave-Me too. It takes a lot too.

Just remember, according to McCain's campaign, THIS ELECTION WILL NOT BE ABOUT ISSUES!; September 03, 2008 11:03 PM
Independent Voter said...: Is this woman coming across more as a Rosie O'Donnell (of the right) than a candidate for VP?

You know what. Kid gloves are OFF! Hillary needs to come out, and SOON!

I guess it is okay to mock someone who actually WORKED on the ground to help get people get back to work after being laid off due to the failed policies of Republicans.; September 03, 2008 11:05 PM
suzihussein22 said...: Sure, you're fighting gal, for BP!

Come on, enough of the POW card! My uncle was almost buried at sea in WWII. He didn't go on and on about it every month. My husband's dad sent along the order to make the first shot in the Korean conflict. I don't hear about it from him every other week.; September 03, 2008 11:07 PM
Independent Voter said...: Actually all I have to say to Ms. Palin, is, "Thank You!"

You have inspired me MORE than ever to run your on John McCain's campaign into the grave, ONCE AND FOR ALL!; September 03, 2008 11:09 PM
suzihussein22 said...: Deeds? One of my husband's best friends can't even say where he got tortured before he even went to Desert Storm.; September 03, 2008 11:10 PM
Dilbuck said...: Sweet a 40 minute speech with absolutely not one mention of any policy. Notice that she was wearing an Alaska lapel pin and not a US lapel pin.

I do have to say that she has my vote for Vice President of the Wasila School Board.; September 03, 2008 11:12 PM
suzihussein22 said...: Yep, I've been inspired to donate more to the Dem campaign.; September 03, 2008 11:16 PM
Beryl said...: Good idea Susi. I'll donate a little tonight as well.; September 03, 2008 11:22 PM
apissedant said...: NUCK FEWT

He got fatter.; September 03, 2008 11:24 PM
Independent Voter said...: Soft, GREAT IDEA! I just order a few shirts, a baseball cap as well as donated another $50 to his campaign.; September 03, 2008 11:29 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Palin used her journalism degree and experience from being a sports newscaster to read the teleprompter of the words the speech writers wrote for her. She is an empty suit and a republican puppet.

She came off very insulting and mean.

Giulianni was an ass and very insulting.

Romney and Huckabee both were insulting.

The whole evening was not positive or uplifting... a big waste of time.; September 03, 2008 11:43 PM
Aunt Jean said...: Hey everyone

poor McLames own state of arizona passed. hehehehehehe. AJ; September 03, 2008 11:45 PM
Vicki in Seattle said...: I just this moment got it that "Noonan" was PEGGY Noonan.

she tried to explain it away, but ... much as I enjoy reading her stuff, that was lame lame lame.

hope she doesn't lose the day job over this ...; September 03, 2008 11:45 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Aunt jean -

Usually the home state will pass and then they go back to it to put the candidate over the top.; September 03, 2008 11:50 PM
suzihussein22 said...: vicki-It's not like she shouldn't be entitled to her own opinion outside of what her job requires. She sounds too clever to accidentally get caught by a hot mic.; September 03, 2008 11:51 PM
Independent Voter said...: Leah, I totally agree with you.

I used to have SOME respect for Guilliani, Romney, and even Huckabee. But that is ALL out the window. The ENTIRE Republican Party lost every last ounce of respect that I ever had for them, tonight.

They are an insult to the American people, and moreso to the global community.

I'm watching CNN, and Wolf Blitzer said that she was making the case for herself. At what point did she EVER argue that she is a qualified? Chirp Chirp Chirp.

I am glad that Rowland Martin brought up her mocking community organizers, those who help people find/keep their jobs, and help them stay in their homes, etc. This woman is NO "Christian" in ANY sense of the word - at least not what they espouse to be. She is the hypocritical "Christian" that we have all become accustomed to coming out the far reich-wing of the Republican Party.; September 03, 2008 11:52 PM
Independent Voter said...: Jeffrey Toobin pretty much just called her out as a LIAR!; September 03, 2008 11:54 PM
Leah Texas4Obama said...: Indy -

What did he say???; September 03, 2008 11:56 PM
Aunt Jean said...: Leah

if I would have stop and thought about it for a minute I should have known that. I guess it was just wishful thinking on my part. AJ; September 03, 2008 11:57 PM
suzihussein22 said...: No, she didn't sound like a Christian. I was able to get a Christian friend to see that I was not questioning having a special needs baby but her judgement surrounding her delivery.; September 04, 2008 12:00 AM
Vicki in Seattle said...: suzi, she is too smart to be caught by a hot mike. she probably has a voice outside of what she is supposed to be writing, maybe this is her way of telling the hidden master in her life to get off her back. but what do I know, I'm just a little gray haired lady out here on the Left Coast.

I suspect I would prefer her honest voice.; September 04, 2008 12:01 AM
Independent Voter said...: He pretty much said that she failed to mention that she wanted the bridge to nowhere, and that she didn't mention the hundreds of millions of people who would benefit from Obama's tax cut plan etc. and that all she said was Obama will raise your taxes, etc.

He said basically, game on!; September 04, 2008 12:02 AM

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