Fine - this is April! Let's see what the polls show once - if - Obama is the one and only Democratic candidate. And if he gets support from the Clintons, as the candidate should. Lots of "ifs" - hypotheticals - so polls right now are not realistic.
- - Ing, April 28, 2008
The article below may be what sways the supers...
[begin quote]
April 28, 2008
Poll shows Clinton has better shot of beating McCain
Posted: 04:08 PM ET
Hillary Clinton would beat McCain by 9 points, a new poll shows.
(CNN) – A new poll out Monday appears to bolster Hillary Clinton's argument that she is in a better position than rival Barack Obama to beat John McCain in a general election match up.
According to a newly-released poll from The Associated Press and Ipsos, Clinton would beat McCain by a wide 9-point margin, 50 percent to 41 percent. But when Obama faces McCain, the two are statistically tied — Obama holds a two point edge over McCain, within the poll's margin of error.
The Clinton campaign has long argued the New York senator has a better shot at beating McCain because of her demonstrated appeal with working class white voters — a demographic that is key to winning several swing states.
[end quote]
- - Fair, April 28, 2008
In any event, the one problem I see is that Hillary Clinton is seen as the more "in touch" among non-suburban and urban voters. (I was hoping to run in to Sen. Clinton when I was at Kmart this past weekend. I was hoping she would be picking up some discount detergent or socks. She wasn't there...).
If the race becomes McCain vs. Clinton, the Republicans will immediately, as they did with Kerry, turn her in to the elitist. Time sort of touched on this in an article in the current issue, noting how Bill Clinton was easily able to avoid this tactic because of his public love for McDonald's (which didn't seem calculated).
I'm beginning to think more and more that the "elitist" topic should not worry me so much about Obama for the very reason I constructed above. Again... will we see either of them changing the oil on a Ford Taurus in Indiana in the coming week?
(I'm all over the map with thoughts today - a lot going on.)
- - Fair, April 28, 2008
There would definitely be bad blood, not only from campaign tactics thus far, but from the way she would get the nomination. She'll only be able to get it by super-delegates "over turning" the elected delegates. Even if this is allowed by the rules, it will be perceived as stealing the nomination from Obama. And he may be great at uniting fighting factions and so forth, but I don't think he'll be able to do enough to overcome the bad blood. I agree with you that more African Americans will react to the situation by sitting out the election than by voting Republican. So it will be bad all down the ticket.
John Edwards says no more VP for me - I tend to believe him. Certainly Obama as VP to Clinton would help with the black vote - would he do it? For a chance in 2016? He'd still be relatively young at about 54 (he's 46 now?). Being the veep would be a heck of a lot better experience than being first lady, as she touts. No matter how unlikely it seems, the Jack Kennedy/LBJ match-up must have seemed almost as unlikely, at the time.
Gotta go read my own favorite professional blog - Media Notes, at washingtonpost.com
- - Ing, April 28, 2008
I've read over some material about Rev. Wright's interview. He brings up valid points, but, unfortunately, like you said, they aren't fit for 15-second sound bites. I've spent so much time wondering about "working-class whites" voting for Obama - the real question now, even more, is can Hillary Clinton expect the African-American community to support her?
I don't see how anyone can assume that if she is the nominee she will have automatic broad African-American support. Not after the events of late. While I don't think there will be a defection to the waiting with open arms republicans, sitting the election out may be a problem for the Dems. This demographic is crucial to a Democrat winning Michigan (Wayne County), tipping PA to the Dem. in the Philly area, possibly Georgia, and adding to the Dem. percentage in Illinois and NY.
John McCain may have a similar problem with strict social conservatives. I guess it all depends on who each candidate selects to be the VP on the ticket.
McCain will need to play to the right - Huckabee or similar.
Obama probably will need a military guy - my wish would be Wes Clark
Clinton... John Edwards? Obama? (Would they turn her down?) Evan Byah from Ind?
- - Fair, April 28, 2008
Sen. Kerry is a big Obama backer. He had an article in favor of Obama, opposite Gov. Rendell's article favoring Clinton, in the Newsweek that came out before the Penn. primary.
I would really be disappointed in the Clintons, if Obama prevails, the process is deemed "fair" and they don't strongly support him. Besides, if they are that much of SORE LOSERS, how does that help them with the 2012 strategy (Rep. Clyburn - Clintons do all they can to tear down Obama, so he loses to McCain, so that Hillary can try again in 2012, but Obama is damaged goods).
- - Ing, April 28, 2008
Unfortunately, outside of vague, general "come together" speeches on TV, I can not see any Clinton help. I can see him helping her, however, for the good of the party.
I envision John and Elizabeth Edwards, the Kerry's, and Al and Tipper Gore doing more work post-primary. I know Edwards and Gore have remained silent, but has John Kerry endorsed? Am I remembering correctly... was Teresa Heinz-Kerry (sp?) at an Obama campaign event in the past month? Did John Kerry come out and support Obama?
- - Fair, April 28, 2008
Can you see Hillary and Billary and Chillary whole-heartedly campaigning for him there and anywhere needed?
- - Ing, April 28, 2008
I agree with your thinking that Obama can win the big states easily with the exception of the following: Texas, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Texas I think is an equal toss up among all three candidates while OH and PA have votes who may be turned off by Obama - a reason that could be as simple as they are unfamiliar with him.
- - Fair, April 28, 2008
I haven't heard anything about Clinton HQ moving - perhaps they thought they needed larger quarters?
I, too, listened very carefully to Howard Dean on Meet the Press. He's taking a very rules and process-oriented approach. Doesn't make for bold leadership, but then again, perhaps it is what the current situation needs - to walk such a tightrope between offending major camps on one side or the other - camps whose votes are needed in November! Listening from the perspective of being pro-Obama, I heard, yes the super-delegates can vote their conscience, and thereby, theoretically, overturn the vote of the elected delegates BUT it hasn't happened in recent (Dean's) memory. Super-delegates want to win, most of all - granted. But what if the cost is the "destruction of the Democratic Party"? That's why Dean and everyone of his level is saying, it will all depend on how the loser supports the winner. And we all know who are the most SORE LOSERS, in this contest.
I hear this some, but wish I heard it more: Obama hasn't won the big states? The states with the most electoral votes? What evidence exists that if he were the only Democrat to vote for, he couldn't win those states? None. . . because SHE refuses to give up and go away.
I predict, sad to say, that SHE will win Indiana and he will win North Carolina, and nothing much will change unless her margin is tiny and his is huge.
- - Ing, April 28, 2008
Myself, I am Catholic, but only because that's what I am told I am. I, along with most of my family, have not been practicing since I can remember.
Some news re: the Clinton campaign. As you know, the national HQ is down the street and I pass it frequently. For about a week now, maybe even longer, all signs indicating that the HQ is within this one building have vanished. At one point there used to be many campaign yard signs sprinkled throughout the block and near the entrance... nothing now. Even the sign I used to see on the door is gone. Any news about Clinton's campaign having to move?
I've been paying close attention to words from Howard Dean (and even from Nancy Pelosi during her interview last week with Larry King); the talk about letting the superdelegates act independently seems to be more in line with a Clinton win. For the most part during these types of interviews I think the candidates and party leaders are speaking more to the superdelegates than to any general audience. I don't know how that argument could continue to be made if Obama wins both Indiana and North Carolina. Obama needs to spending ALL of his time in Indiana...
- - Fair, April 28, 2008
As planned, I watched the entire Bill Moyers Journal interview with Rev. Wright and I feel that the reporters/pundits have totally miscast it - on purpose, for the most part. They say that Bill Moyers did not ask the tough questions about the snippets and that the longer excerpts which Moyers showed - of the post 9/11 "chickens come home to roost" sermon and the "g. d. america" sermon - only reinforced how radical and inflammatory the reverend was. I didn't think this was true at all. Now, we haven't discussed religion at length, to my recollection. I was brought up Lutheran, converted to being a Jehovah's Witness in my twenties, was "kicked out" and now, consider myself a deist, if anything. But I am very interested in the structure and history of Christianity over the millenia and have read many books on the subject. Although my past really has nothing in common with Black Liberation Theology, I can appreciate the history which Rev. Wright provided - going back to slavery. Of course present day newscasters want to stay away from that! I can also understand the rhetorical structure of the sermons. Even to play a 5 minute excerpt versus a 15-second clip does not capture that structure fairly.
Donna Brazile, on This Week with George S,, said it best, in answer to the question, Why is Rev. Wright speaking out now? She said that it was about the credibility of the black church, which was a bigger issue, frankly, than the political fortunes of one black man (I'm paraphrasing). I just hope that Obama can stick to his guns and not give in to pressure to totally repudiate Wright - if he does, then he will be falling into the same-old-same-old Clinton pattern - do anything, say anything, to get elected.
- - Ing, April 28, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Wright - or wrong
As I said in earlier exchanges (yet to be posted), I watched the entire Bill Moyers interview with Rev. Wright. I was impressed and felt I gained a better understanding of Rev. Wright and his ministry. That was then; this is now. He has subsequently spoken to the National Press Club and the consensus of the TV and newspaper pundits which I follow is that he is now mesmerized by the limelight and is out to stay in it as long as possible, consequences to his former church member, Barack Obama be damned. Such progressions in the life of public events happen all the time, but it's very unfortunate for Obama precisely at this time. Even worse then the reverend's desire for attention is his characterization of Obama as just another politician, speaking and acting as a politician must. This is exactly NOT what Obama is running as. The Reverend Wright - is wrong!
Saturday, April 26, 2008
'Fair' game...
Greetings from Fair. I'm signing in for the first time; taking a test drive of the site if you will. Just wanted thank Ing for putting everything together to date. Looks great, don't you think? I do. Wait a minute... perhaps we need to add some blue color to our site - to make it more politically fitting :)
I look forward to reading comments from you about our discussions. Are we on target? Off base? Out of touch? Let us know.
Enjoy...
-Fair
Friday, April 25, 2008
Here are our exchanges from the beginning of April through today. The plan after this will be more like weekly posts.
Hi! I'm just reading about Wright now in the Freep and Dillon was on my agenda too. Early in the controversy over Wright, I heard his successor pastor explain the 5-part arc of the type of sermons that Wright and others using Black Liberation Theology give. It made perfect sense to me. This is the whole issue of sound-bite knowledge versus something more lengthy and thoughtful. But I guess I have to admit that I'm in the intellectual category - I know how Wright's snippets must sound to others in a different category. It's not good for Obama, unless you are thoughtful - and I HATE the way Hillary/Billary just milk such a thing for all it is worth, with smug looks on their faces all the while . . .
- - Ing, April 25, 2008
I like the green, actually. I think the template looks smart and simple.
What are you making of all the news about Rev. Wright giving an interview will only drag out the story instead of letting it fade? I'm glad he is speaking out now because this is an instance where I think, if Obama is the nominee, the republicans will run negative ads.
- - Fair, April 25, 2008
I set TiVo to record Bill Moyers interview with Rev. Wright. From what I have seen in clips, the Rev. acquits himself well, but the pundits all say, this is not good for Obama, it doesn't allow the story to fade away. And it is a story very poorly served by the sound-bite, 2-minutes max. per story format of the evening news. Maybe someday we'll get beyond that, with longer internet formats/searches and other media . . . so, hey, millennial guy, go ahead and speak for your generation - longer or shorter attention spans!
- - Ing, April 25, 2008
I spent about a half hour creating http://www.faxham.blogspot.com last night at home. It's a learning experience, all right.
Where you create the site, they have various templates - you can also make your own, but I haven't those skills. The template I chose is rather wimpy - we hadn't discussed colors or anything. They didn't have a template with a bold, sort of red-white-and-blue theme that I could find. So I went with colors I liked that I didn't think were overly feminine - greens, oranges, text in blue-gray. Sort of non-committal. Anyway, that and most everything can be changed.
- - Ing, April 24, 2008
Now of course I will edit out personal stuff, but since it is supposed to be a political discussion, I thought Kwame and Jennifer remarks could stay in. But this is sort of fun - hope we don't change our spontaneous reactions to events just because we are going to publish! ;->
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
Ing - (sounds like an Adams Family name)
I didn't see this e-mail before I sent my previous response. As long as adding material isn't difficult, I'm all for it. I'm sure since this is a Google product it is for the most part intuitive.
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
I like the Faxham - I didn't look at the templates they had available, but I imagine something like a classy font for "The Faxham" and then an explanation of the blog purpose as something like, a political discussion, with liberal leanings, between the midwest and Washington DC. Anonymous hosts are Ing and Fair (too cute?).
I really think this might be fun - hope you don't regret suggesting it, even in jest. But blogger.com makes it sound real easy, and easy to change.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
No, definitely look in to it!
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
Now that I went through the "tour" at blogger.com - and found that it is from the Google family - I would sort of like to do this. But - if I set it up, I'd want to do it from my home computer. I could do this this weekend and let you know. If you were just kidding, no harm done.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
See, deadpan is hard to do by e-mail - I don't know the emoticon for that. I just googled blogs and there is a website called blogger.com that tells how to set things up. But I didn't really look at it too closely . . . maybe you could. I betcha lots of folks have the same idea, but maybe it would be fun.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
Of course I'm not too serious. I don't know how to post a website (set up a server, etc...) and I was guessing you don't know that either.
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
The Faxham is fine.
Are you sure you're serious? Perhaps you are just doing a late April Fool's joke!
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
The Faxham (FAX-um) Blog :)
We could just do a cut and past from what seems to be are almost daily e-mail conversations.
The website www.faxham.com does not exist and seems to be unregistered. We could just surround it with Google ads and split the ad revenue (what little there would probably be) 50-50.
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
But maybe you have something different in mind - you could cut and paste from our e-mails like this? Sure. The name is a mouthful - how about something geographical, like Ingham & Fairfax –
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
Here I go again worrying... I think *something* needs to be done with FLA and Mich. - two states with voters you don't want mad at you going in to a general election with a mildly popular republican candidate. Although... just how "mad" are we so far. I'm not...
About our blog... perhaps we could just post copies of our e-mail conversations and see what type of hits and comments we get - again... complete with Google ads on the page :)
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
I've thought about starting a blog often, but I think it would end up eating up too much time.
Did you hear Hillary this morning already claiming she is ahead in the popular vote now? It's because she's counting Florida and Michigan, on the theory, that regardless of delegates, people still voted. I highly doubt that is part of the Dem. Nat'l Party nomination rules! As for your worries/etc. - I'm just glad that you didn't count Obama out based on Hillary's performance yesterday.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
Yes it was - we should start our own blog complete with Google ads so we can earn some extra $$. I wish I wasn't so worried about the things that concern me about the campaign. I should just support him 100% and not worry about such things as electability, blue-collar voters, the elderly, etc... Just not analyze something for once in my life.
If Obama wins in Indiana, I think it will prove he can win over working class voters come November. John McCain's recent Bush moments, such as all of a sudden liking the Bush tax cuts can only help our cause. Just who is John McCain?...
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
Our back and forth was fun this morning.
Keep the comments coming, esp. as we approach Indiana and North Carolina contests!
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
I can't remember the exact states - Tim Russert worked it all out with his famous white board - how the different strategies of the three candidates would hit the magic electoral college number of, what is it, 270? I'm just leaving something out of the Obama strategy.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
The problem is the number of electoral votes in the four states you mentioned - Ohio, Mich., VA, and Colorado. Ohio and Michigan bring a lot more electoral votes than Colorado and Virginia.
I think, actually, that Obama could take Michigan. Macomb County would be red, but Wayne, Oakland, Genesee, Saginaw, Kalamazoo, Ingham, Washtenaw (in no particular order) would be blue. Same may be true no matter which candidate moves ahead.
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
Yes - you are holding forth with the traditional or conventional arguments, based on recent history of blue states in presidential races. The Obama strategy means taking some traditional red states, like Virginia and Colorado, and turning them blue, while at the same time letting Ohio and even Michigan go red. I haven't found any pundit who thinks New York will go red, no matter who the candidates are.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
I am convinced the "blue-collar" segment is critical to win such states as Michigan, Ohio, up-state New York, and Pennsylvania - all states needed to win in November. This group doesn't matter so much/if at all for Florida, Texas, Maryland, Virginia, or California.
Don't get me wrong, I think it will be difficult for either a woman or an African-American to win these mostly throwback voters, but they do vote, and from what I've heard, at least from the Macomb County angle, is that Hillary would be supported more than Obama (the race issue). Maybe it is just because race is such a touchy issue in the Detroit area that causes me to be too concerned.
After reading CNN this morning you would begin to think I work for the Clinton campaign - maybe I'm old school with my thinking - but these are the same (a bit eerie, in fact, how similar) arguments they are making...
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
I need to go to the online analysis to figure out, just how crucial the blue-collar white votes are to Democrats. Axelrod/Obama have a different path to victory as compared to conventional thinking from the past several election cycles. They could be right, they could be wrong. . . . It sounds as though you are mostly convinced that the blue-collar segment is critical. . .
I've been trying to remember where I read some analysis that might have been right after Iowa. It was how Obama's timing was sort of tragic irony for Hillary because she felt her time was now, but she and Bill would NEVER stand in the way of the first, having-a-realistic-chance african-american candidate, given their civil rights background. Well - that was wrong, but it sticks with me. There is a difference between the Republican candidate tearing down Obama and Hillary Clinton doing so. It should not be that her victory can only come about by way of his destruction. She should be able to find a positive path, mostly by touting her own qualities.
I never watch FoxNews any more. I admit that I do watch the show/person who tacks toward Obama - that is Keith Olbermann on MSNBC. But I also switch back and forth to CNN - any of those guys are fine. Brian Williams is always our evening news guy on the set we listen to, while Katie is on the other set.
Here's what I do Sunday mornings - there are the two TV sets. On the one that is on headphones, I have Meet the Press and the Chris Matthews Show with close-captioning. On the other set, I have CBS Sunday Morning, which mostly isn't too political. At the same time, I TiVo This Week with George S. (ABC) and then Reliable Sources with Howard Kurtz (CNN). And I read Howard Kurtz's blog, Media Notes, at washingtonpost.com most every day.
I don't get out of the mainstream media much, except to the extent that these other outlets quote from other blogs and things.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
Last night means ANOTHER two weeks, at least. I was surprised at how large the Clinton lead was based on how much $$ Obama spent in the area - esp. the Philly area. I was also surprised that Clinton was able to take the suburban Philly counties that she did. I thought Obama would win in those areas and that would balance the Clinton-Obama vote; Philly/suburbs vs. the remainder of the state.
Unfortunately, I continue to think that Obama's race is an issue among "Blue Collar Voters" (white older (mostly) males with no college degree). I grew up in the epicenter of that and know how these high school educated "Reagan Democrats" think. Very unfortunate, but something that needs to be considered if the Dems. are to win in November. I don't think it can be ignored that continues to be what keeps me from fully backing Obama and remaining neutral at present. The Reagan Democrats may become "McCain Democrats." This is very difficult for me. I do not buy the argument that if Obama wins the nomination that Clinton's base will sit it out or vote McCain or if Clinton wins that Obama's base will sit out or vote McCain.
I also am a bit mad at the Obama camp for saying Hillary campaign is being too hard with her attacks. I think it is actually a good thing - it will mean most attacks will be old news during the general election. The Republicans aren't going to play nice and this buys right in to Hillary's "If you can't take the heat get out of the kitchen" idea. I would feel the same if Obama starts to go after Hillary harder and her campaign cried foul.
I stayed up pretty late, but not as late to see all of the votes get tallied.
Here's a question: which reporters from the MSNBC-Fox-CNN networks do you like to watch? I like Larry King, Candy Crowley, Greta Van Sustren (sp?), Brian Williams, and sometimes Anderson Cooper (if he has his thoughts straight - I notice he sometimes can get ahead of himself). I prefer MSNBC's delivery, but for the most part like the CNN reporters.
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
Elderly white women - consistent for Hillary. MY mom (who is almost 85) can't stand Hillary, loves Obama, but will probably vote for McCain if Hillary is the candidate.
Elderly white men - I think consistent for Hillary. Wisconsin had Obama cutting into her segments the most. And Wisconsin was pre-Pastor Wright, bittergate, etc.
Personally, I think Obama is much more inspiring than Granholm, in their relative theaters of action. You may be extrapolating from your experience too much on that one. The exit polls have revealed a lot of new and young voters for Obama, throughout the contests.
Right now, Hillary is full-in to the Big Mo analogy from sports. Only problem is, the points scored the entire game do count in sports - she wants to pretend the points scored most recently count the most.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
What do you make of the elderly vote? This is a segment that is probably much more important that the Blue-Collar voters and one I've ignored until now.
Do you know; Have they been consistently supporting Clinton or Obama across the board or are they mixed between the two candidates?
I see Clinton won this group in PA.
I am so cynical about voters my age because I've had friends say there were going to vote (I recruited them to support Granholm over DeVos) and they didn't vote for reasons that made me mad: (Oh, I ended up going tanning instead... or, I couldn't figure out where I should vote..., or I had to stop at the store... or, I didn't know what time "voting closed"... or, it was raining...).
Silly distractions in my mind.
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
I've got some cousins around the Elkhart, IN area - maybe I should try and get and touch and lobby them on Obama's behalf ;->
p.s. John Oliver had his own special last Sunday night - if you didn't see it, and you like him on the Daily Show, perhaps it will be repeated. Lots of laugh-out-loud stuff!
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
I saw that episode of the Daily Show. A good skit. By the way... I still am waiting to see Hillary strap on some hunting gear and go out in the woods with hunters (in the mostly animal-friendly way, of course) in NC, Montana, and Indiana! We've already seen Barack attempt bowling and Hillary down a shot of whiskey :)
I wonder if Obama or Hillary will try to change the oil of a domestic car in Indiana??
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
Obviously, the Penn. results were not as I would have liked. I've decided I need to try and stop being so childish and immature in my attachment to Obama and his being the candidate. I need to reconcile with the idea that she may be the candidate and her election would be a better result than that of McCain.
Here's an example of how immature my support of Obama is: nearly everyone would agree that for the past 8 years (counting back from next year's inauguration) we have had a president with the worst speaking voice and style since - Jimmy Carter, perhaps? I would so love to have a president who could speak well. Did you happen to catch Obama on the Daily show Monday night? Jon had Obama repeat back to him a couple of mundane phrases, like - I would like know if you are happy with your cell phone service - and to "hope it up." Of course, Obama did.
I know there's a lot more to being a president than speaking voice and Hillary has her good, presidential qualities. I'm quite sure I'll be able to vote for her - just not be as happy to listen to her.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
Tonight will be here soon. Probably will be a late night.
- - Fair, April 22, 2008
Big day today! Will she win by up to 10 points? 10 or more? Will he pull out a win? Penn. polls close today at 8:00pm so MSNBC will be up with their call right at 8 if feasible. I hope it is not feasible! I can't imagine Obama could win big, so the only way they could call at 8pm is if SHE wins REAL big. His best area is around Philly and I guess their returns have been late, lately, so what will most likely happen is that the race will be "too early to call" at 8 - "too close to call" would be better from my standpoint, but my best realistic hope is that she gets a narrow win. Then all the back and forth will continue at least through May 6 . . .who would have thunk it, last year!
- - Ing, April 22, 2008
You're right about Rove! I would not stop to help the guy, either! But Cheney is creepier - have you caught the new Lewis Black show, The Root of all Evil? Comics square off debating what is worse - a recent pair were Paris Hilton and Cheney. Lewis Black rules - in this case, Cheney was declared the root of all evil!
- - Ing, April 21, 2008
Karl Rove (!!!) gave a good interview to GQ about Hillary vs. Obama. I have a feeling; no wait, I know if I saw him stranded on the side of a road and I knew it was him that I would not stop to help. Seems like a creepy individual always out for something.
- - Fair, April 21, 2008
Sorry I had been getting too insistent about how much better Barack was over Hillary when you had not yet made up your mind. It's quite possible you won't be able to decide by Wednesday morning, either. I wish my candidate had been able to "close the deal" as they say, earlier on. . .
- - Ing, April 21, 2008
I hadn't thought of that, but you're right - I don't recall an urban agenda out of any of them. It would be the best "fit" with Obama, I think. Even thought I live rural, I appreciate lots of things about better urban living/design/policy. . .we were looking at a chart in the paper the other day and it's amazing that when we moved out into the country, gas was approx. $1 a gallon - this was 1997. And now . . .maybe more of a fringe suburban location would have been better for us, esp. the older we get . . . but we just didn't think about that then - we just wanted OUT of the city.
- - Ing, April 17, 2008
I'm sure you can tell from my e-mails that I still am not attached to either Clinton or Obama - just to getting a Dem. elected in November. That is what I care about most. I lean toward Obama because he, to me, can contribute something fresh AND he is from a major city. He hasn't been very forthcoming about an urban agenda (the other two haven't either) which would probably make me an immediate fan and donor.
I am surprised with John McCain - and not in a good way. As of late he seems to be drinking the republican kool-aid. He seems to be getting farther to the right on issues he always thought had nothing to do with government. Perhaps he can get away with it as a technique to court social conservatives while everyone else is side tracked with Clinton/Obama.
- - Fair, April 17, 2008
Yes - I've heard this also. So, do you find things like this interesting in just an intellectual way? Or have you come to "care" about who is the next President yet? Obviously, I care quite a bit - more and more, I can hardly bear to watch Hillary on TV, especially if she is speaking. And I genuinely do believe that Obama could be a different kind of politician, esp. once attacks from his own party began to decline.
If party elders come to her privately and persuade her to get out - no matter how much she resists - that'll be one thing. If she makes it public, at the convention, then I think McCain's chances really go up.
- - Ing, April 17, 2008
I've heard this rumor: Hillary will be asked to "suspend" her campaign and be suggested she take the "opportunity" to run for gov. of NY state.
I think it's interesting... I don't think she'll suspend her campaign without a fight, at least a hidden, back-door brawl.
- - Fair, April 17, 2008
Yes, the debate was on ABC - some of the bloggers have really expressed disdain for the moderators - besides George, also Charlie Gibson. The thought is that they spent so much time on the "trivial" issues which the media likes to go on and on about - bitter-gate, wearing a flag pin or not, some name from past American violent dissent - William Ayers or something? I guess it was a weather underground or similar association, and O. has had very slight interactions with him (membership on the same board?). Obama brought up Hillary's "little woman baking cookies" remarks from 1992 and how he knew back then she was being misportrayed - but now, she has learned the long lesson, just going after these attacks by association, by seeming to be something a person is not, - the Republican playbook, in other words.
Conventional wisdom some weeks or months ago was that Pennsylvania would not be decisive unless Clinton wins by an enormous margin - which, has she ever done? And then she would need to follow up with all of the remaining contests, winning by similar margins. With her negatives? It's just going to turn out to be the worst case scenario - Obama will either have the nomination but be wounded by all her attacks (friendly fire) or she will engineer some super-delegate revolt and alienate the entire black voting bloc and have all her high negatives, to boot - leading us to - BUSH TERM 3!
- - Ing, April 17, 2008
I've tried but can't exactly find the answer to your question. At the CNN site, there's this (bold added):
“At the forum, Clinton said those remarks fed into religious voters' impression of the Democratic Party ‘as a party that didn't understand and respect the values and the way of life of many of our fellow Americans.’
‘We had two very good men, and men of faith, run for president in 2000 and 2004,’ she said, referring to Al Gore and John Kerry. ‘But large segments of the electorate concluded that they did not really understand, or relate to, or frankly respect their ways of life.’
“In his appearance right after Clinton's, Obama responded. ‘I know that Al Gore was mentioned earlier,’ he said. ‘By the way, I have to say, I think Al Gore won. ...’
“ ‘. . .[W]hat I was referring to was in no way demeaning a faith that I myself embrace. What I was saying is that when economic hardship hits in these communities, what people have is they've got family, they've got their faith, they've got the traditions that have been passed onto them from generation to generation,’ said Obama. ‘Those aren't bad things. That's what they have left’"
Probably by "responded", they meant that the moderators repeated to Obama what Clinton had said. My guess would be that some of his staff was assigned to watch her and provide him key points he should respond to. It doesn't seem like he was just in a "green room" watching and waiting his turn.
- - Ing, April 14, 2008
No doubt you're right about needing those votes in the General - but Obama has been learning along the way - I think he'll be able to get enough of them. I'll look for the structure thing.
- - Ing, April 14, 2008
I think we will need those voters to win - it may be an Al Gore situation where Obama gets the popular vote, but the way the rural states/blue collar states vote could tip the electoral vote to McCain (states like IN, OH, and PA).
Let me know if you come across anything that explains the structure of the discussion; specifically if Obama got to watch Hillary's responses. The questions to Clinton and Obama were either the same or very similar.
- - Fair, April 14, 2008
I'm just reading about the Faith Debate and related subjects right now. Somehow, the Faith Debate slipped right by me.
There definitely was a context to what Obama said that made it more palatable and less elitist - in fact, when I first heard what he said, it didn't sound elitist to me at all - just stereotypical and clumsy in execution. But I don't think he's even been counting on blue collar votes in the primaries anyway, and in my opinion, this being April, this will mostly be forgotten by November. The biggest immediate problem is that I think Hillary is getting under his skin on this topic and he's been saying some things back that sound harsh and personal. That always ups the sympathy vote for her among women.
- - Ing, April 14, 2008
Did you watch the "Faith debate" on CNN last night?
I personally think John McCain was right to decline his invitation. I think faith is a personal matter that should not be made such a major part of a campaign. I had a hard time believing some of the what seemed to be calculated statements from both Clinton and Obama, esp. from Clinton. If you watched, do you know if Obama got to see Hillary's interview (she went first) prior to him going on stage?
I think Obama is going to be in trouble with what I'll call traditional blue collar, white male voters in "rust belt" states after the Rev. Wright episode and now the elite comments. I thought it was interesting to hear Hillary stand up for the Second Amendment as if she is/was a gun toting, rabbit skinnin', bark eating hunter... :)
- - Fair, April 14, 2008
"I think I'll join you all the way supporting Obama..." YOU HAD BETTER!
- - Ing, April 4, 2008
I'm to the point now where my patience for the Dem. competition is thinning. Unless Hillary beats Barack by a good margin (if at all) in Penn., I think I'll join you all the way supporting Obama...
- - Fair, April 4, 2008
. . . Back to politics - yeah, perhaps I missed your sarcasm :) about the entitlement thing. But here's what I find perplexing now, and it seems to come from more conservative types, like Tucker Carlson and Bill Ballenger (MIRS): we just don't KNOW Obama. What? Isn't Hillary totally desperate to beat him? Won't the Clinton machine do anything to beat him? Don't they have the best "oppo" research in the business? So, if there is something to uncover about Obama, wouldn't it have come out by now?
- - Ing, April 4, 2008
That was good. You know I was just being funny re: the entitlement comment, right?
- - Fair, April 3, 2008
Not at all! It just proves - all politics are local.
As for entitlement - look at the most famous father-son Republican presidential dynasty there is! (Did you catch the Jon Stewart where he had clips from a recent Bush speech where Bush went on and on about the war, the economy, Katrina, etc. - and Jon was like, I knew it was bad - and we really pay attention here - but not THAT bad . . . so funny.)
- - Ing, April 3, 2008
I think I may, but for this reason: this guy I went to HS with is running for his father's House seat. The senior is term limited and he think his son *should* have his seat. I thought only us Dems believed in entitlement :) Well... I'd like to support . . . instead. . . .
Am I being childish?
- - Fair, April 3, 2008
Will you be voting absentee ballot in Michigan?
- - Ing, April 3, 2008
I actually think the media holds the key to when that line is drawn. To date, McCain has been relatively out of the news - his trip to Iraq barely was a headline to me. The Hillary "lie-for-a-lie" and the Obama pastor/PA gutter ball seemed to capture more attention.
Once the media begins to give McCain his share of time, that is when I hope a decision is made (probably that Hillary exits the race).
- - Fair, April 3, 2008
I do agree with this line of reasoning - up to a point. If Obama will be the ultimate candidate, then when will he be able to start focusing 100% on defeating McCain, instead of defeating Hillary? I'm sure that April or May are soon enough, but June? July? The August convention as Hillary wants? The line is so hard to draw.- - Ing, April 3, 2008
[Maureen Dowd Opinion piece in April 3, 2008 New York Times, “Clinton’s tutorial will toughen up Obama” – example quote: “Whether or not she wins, Hillary Clinton has already given noble service as a sophisticated political tutor for Barack Obama, providing her younger colleague with much-needed seasoning. Who else was going to toughen him up? Howard Dean? John Edwards? Dennis Kucinich?”]
- - Fair, April 3, 2008
Hi! I'm just reading about Wright now in the Freep and Dillon was on my agenda too. Early in the controversy over Wright, I heard his successor pastor explain the 5-part arc of the type of sermons that Wright and others using Black Liberation Theology give. It made perfect sense to me. This is the whole issue of sound-bite knowledge versus something more lengthy and thoughtful. But I guess I have to admit that I'm in the intellectual category - I know how Wright's snippets must sound to others in a different category. It's not good for Obama, unless you are thoughtful - and I HATE the way Hillary/Billary just milk such a thing for all it is worth, with smug looks on their faces all the while . . .
- - Ing, April 25, 2008
I like the green, actually. I think the template looks smart and simple.
What are you making of all the news about Rev. Wright giving an interview will only drag out the story instead of letting it fade? I'm glad he is speaking out now because this is an instance where I think, if Obama is the nominee, the republicans will run negative ads.
- - Fair, April 25, 2008
I set TiVo to record Bill Moyers interview with Rev. Wright. From what I have seen in clips, the Rev. acquits himself well, but the pundits all say, this is not good for Obama, it doesn't allow the story to fade away. And it is a story very poorly served by the sound-bite, 2-minutes max. per story format of the evening news. Maybe someday we'll get beyond that, with longer internet formats/searches and other media . . . so, hey, millennial guy, go ahead and speak for your generation - longer or shorter attention spans!
- - Ing, April 25, 2008
I spent about a half hour creating http://www.faxham.blogspot.com last night at home. It's a learning experience, all right.
Where you create the site, they have various templates - you can also make your own, but I haven't those skills. The template I chose is rather wimpy - we hadn't discussed colors or anything. They didn't have a template with a bold, sort of red-white-and-blue theme that I could find. So I went with colors I liked that I didn't think were overly feminine - greens, oranges, text in blue-gray. Sort of non-committal. Anyway, that and most everything can be changed.
- - Ing, April 24, 2008
Now of course I will edit out personal stuff, but since it is supposed to be a political discussion, I thought Kwame and Jennifer remarks could stay in. But this is sort of fun - hope we don't change our spontaneous reactions to events just because we are going to publish! ;->
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
Ing - (sounds like an Adams Family name)
I didn't see this e-mail before I sent my previous response. As long as adding material isn't difficult, I'm all for it. I'm sure since this is a Google product it is for the most part intuitive.
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
I like the Faxham - I didn't look at the templates they had available, but I imagine something like a classy font for "The Faxham" and then an explanation of the blog purpose as something like, a political discussion, with liberal leanings, between the midwest and Washington DC. Anonymous hosts are Ing and Fair (too cute?).
I really think this might be fun - hope you don't regret suggesting it, even in jest. But blogger.com makes it sound real easy, and easy to change.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
No, definitely look in to it!
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
Now that I went through the "tour" at blogger.com - and found that it is from the Google family - I would sort of like to do this. But - if I set it up, I'd want to do it from my home computer. I could do this this weekend and let you know. If you were just kidding, no harm done.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
See, deadpan is hard to do by e-mail - I don't know the emoticon for that. I just googled blogs and there is a website called blogger.com that tells how to set things up. But I didn't really look at it too closely . . . maybe you could. I betcha lots of folks have the same idea, but maybe it would be fun.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
Of course I'm not too serious. I don't know how to post a website (set up a server, etc...) and I was guessing you don't know that either.
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
The Faxham is fine.
Are you sure you're serious? Perhaps you are just doing a late April Fool's joke!
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
The Faxham (FAX-um) Blog :)
We could just do a cut and past from what seems to be are almost daily e-mail conversations.
The website www.faxham.com does not exist and seems to be unregistered. We could just surround it with Google ads and split the ad revenue (what little there would probably be) 50-50.
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
But maybe you have something different in mind - you could cut and paste from our e-mails like this? Sure. The name is a mouthful - how about something geographical, like Ingham & Fairfax –
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
Here I go again worrying... I think *something* needs to be done with FLA and Mich. - two states with voters you don't want mad at you going in to a general election with a mildly popular republican candidate. Although... just how "mad" are we so far. I'm not...
About our blog... perhaps we could just post copies of our e-mail conversations and see what type of hits and comments we get - again... complete with Google ads on the page :)
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
I've thought about starting a blog often, but I think it would end up eating up too much time.
Did you hear Hillary this morning already claiming she is ahead in the popular vote now? It's because she's counting Florida and Michigan, on the theory, that regardless of delegates, people still voted. I highly doubt that is part of the Dem. Nat'l Party nomination rules! As for your worries/etc. - I'm just glad that you didn't count Obama out based on Hillary's performance yesterday.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
Yes it was - we should start our own blog complete with Google ads so we can earn some extra $$. I wish I wasn't so worried about the things that concern me about the campaign. I should just support him 100% and not worry about such things as electability, blue-collar voters, the elderly, etc... Just not analyze something for once in my life.
If Obama wins in Indiana, I think it will prove he can win over working class voters come November. John McCain's recent Bush moments, such as all of a sudden liking the Bush tax cuts can only help our cause. Just who is John McCain?...
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
Our back and forth was fun this morning.
Keep the comments coming, esp. as we approach Indiana and North Carolina contests!
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
I can't remember the exact states - Tim Russert worked it all out with his famous white board - how the different strategies of the three candidates would hit the magic electoral college number of, what is it, 270? I'm just leaving something out of the Obama strategy.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
The problem is the number of electoral votes in the four states you mentioned - Ohio, Mich., VA, and Colorado. Ohio and Michigan bring a lot more electoral votes than Colorado and Virginia.
I think, actually, that Obama could take Michigan. Macomb County would be red, but Wayne, Oakland, Genesee, Saginaw, Kalamazoo, Ingham, Washtenaw (in no particular order) would be blue. Same may be true no matter which candidate moves ahead.
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
Yes - you are holding forth with the traditional or conventional arguments, based on recent history of blue states in presidential races. The Obama strategy means taking some traditional red states, like Virginia and Colorado, and turning them blue, while at the same time letting Ohio and even Michigan go red. I haven't found any pundit who thinks New York will go red, no matter who the candidates are.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
I am convinced the "blue-collar" segment is critical to win such states as Michigan, Ohio, up-state New York, and Pennsylvania - all states needed to win in November. This group doesn't matter so much/if at all for Florida, Texas, Maryland, Virginia, or California.
Don't get me wrong, I think it will be difficult for either a woman or an African-American to win these mostly throwback voters, but they do vote, and from what I've heard, at least from the Macomb County angle, is that Hillary would be supported more than Obama (the race issue). Maybe it is just because race is such a touchy issue in the Detroit area that causes me to be too concerned.
After reading CNN this morning you would begin to think I work for the Clinton campaign - maybe I'm old school with my thinking - but these are the same (a bit eerie, in fact, how similar) arguments they are making...
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
I need to go to the online analysis to figure out, just how crucial the blue-collar white votes are to Democrats. Axelrod/Obama have a different path to victory as compared to conventional thinking from the past several election cycles. They could be right, they could be wrong. . . . It sounds as though you are mostly convinced that the blue-collar segment is critical. . .
I've been trying to remember where I read some analysis that might have been right after Iowa. It was how Obama's timing was sort of tragic irony for Hillary because she felt her time was now, but she and Bill would NEVER stand in the way of the first, having-a-realistic-chance african-american candidate, given their civil rights background. Well - that was wrong, but it sticks with me. There is a difference between the Republican candidate tearing down Obama and Hillary Clinton doing so. It should not be that her victory can only come about by way of his destruction. She should be able to find a positive path, mostly by touting her own qualities.
I never watch FoxNews any more. I admit that I do watch the show/person who tacks toward Obama - that is Keith Olbermann on MSNBC. But I also switch back and forth to CNN - any of those guys are fine. Brian Williams is always our evening news guy on the set we listen to, while Katie is on the other set.
Here's what I do Sunday mornings - there are the two TV sets. On the one that is on headphones, I have Meet the Press and the Chris Matthews Show with close-captioning. On the other set, I have CBS Sunday Morning, which mostly isn't too political. At the same time, I TiVo This Week with George S. (ABC) and then Reliable Sources with Howard Kurtz (CNN). And I read Howard Kurtz's blog, Media Notes, at washingtonpost.com most every day.
I don't get out of the mainstream media much, except to the extent that these other outlets quote from other blogs and things.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
Last night means ANOTHER two weeks, at least. I was surprised at how large the Clinton lead was based on how much $$ Obama spent in the area - esp. the Philly area. I was also surprised that Clinton was able to take the suburban Philly counties that she did. I thought Obama would win in those areas and that would balance the Clinton-Obama vote; Philly/suburbs vs. the remainder of the state.
Unfortunately, I continue to think that Obama's race is an issue among "Blue Collar Voters" (white older (mostly) males with no college degree). I grew up in the epicenter of that and know how these high school educated "Reagan Democrats" think. Very unfortunate, but something that needs to be considered if the Dems. are to win in November. I don't think it can be ignored that continues to be what keeps me from fully backing Obama and remaining neutral at present. The Reagan Democrats may become "McCain Democrats." This is very difficult for me. I do not buy the argument that if Obama wins the nomination that Clinton's base will sit it out or vote McCain or if Clinton wins that Obama's base will sit out or vote McCain.
I also am a bit mad at the Obama camp for saying Hillary campaign is being too hard with her attacks. I think it is actually a good thing - it will mean most attacks will be old news during the general election. The Republicans aren't going to play nice and this buys right in to Hillary's "If you can't take the heat get out of the kitchen" idea. I would feel the same if Obama starts to go after Hillary harder and her campaign cried foul.
I stayed up pretty late, but not as late to see all of the votes get tallied.
Here's a question: which reporters from the MSNBC-Fox-CNN networks do you like to watch? I like Larry King, Candy Crowley, Greta Van Sustren (sp?), Brian Williams, and sometimes Anderson Cooper (if he has his thoughts straight - I notice he sometimes can get ahead of himself). I prefer MSNBC's delivery, but for the most part like the CNN reporters.
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
Elderly white women - consistent for Hillary. MY mom (who is almost 85) can't stand Hillary, loves Obama, but will probably vote for McCain if Hillary is the candidate.
Elderly white men - I think consistent for Hillary. Wisconsin had Obama cutting into her segments the most. And Wisconsin was pre-Pastor Wright, bittergate, etc.
Personally, I think Obama is much more inspiring than Granholm, in their relative theaters of action. You may be extrapolating from your experience too much on that one. The exit polls have revealed a lot of new and young voters for Obama, throughout the contests.
Right now, Hillary is full-in to the Big Mo analogy from sports. Only problem is, the points scored the entire game do count in sports - she wants to pretend the points scored most recently count the most.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
What do you make of the elderly vote? This is a segment that is probably much more important that the Blue-Collar voters and one I've ignored until now.
Do you know; Have they been consistently supporting Clinton or Obama across the board or are they mixed between the two candidates?
I see Clinton won this group in PA.
I am so cynical about voters my age because I've had friends say there were going to vote (I recruited them to support Granholm over DeVos) and they didn't vote for reasons that made me mad: (Oh, I ended up going tanning instead... or, I couldn't figure out where I should vote..., or I had to stop at the store... or, I didn't know what time "voting closed"... or, it was raining...).
Silly distractions in my mind.
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
I've got some cousins around the Elkhart, IN area - maybe I should try and get and touch and lobby them on Obama's behalf ;->
p.s. John Oliver had his own special last Sunday night - if you didn't see it, and you like him on the Daily Show, perhaps it will be repeated. Lots of laugh-out-loud stuff!
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
I saw that episode of the Daily Show. A good skit. By the way... I still am waiting to see Hillary strap on some hunting gear and go out in the woods with hunters (in the mostly animal-friendly way, of course) in NC, Montana, and Indiana! We've already seen Barack attempt bowling and Hillary down a shot of whiskey :)
I wonder if Obama or Hillary will try to change the oil of a domestic car in Indiana??
- - Fair, April 23, 2008
Obviously, the Penn. results were not as I would have liked. I've decided I need to try and stop being so childish and immature in my attachment to Obama and his being the candidate. I need to reconcile with the idea that she may be the candidate and her election would be a better result than that of McCain.
Here's an example of how immature my support of Obama is: nearly everyone would agree that for the past 8 years (counting back from next year's inauguration) we have had a president with the worst speaking voice and style since - Jimmy Carter, perhaps? I would so love to have a president who could speak well. Did you happen to catch Obama on the Daily show Monday night? Jon had Obama repeat back to him a couple of mundane phrases, like - I would like know if you are happy with your cell phone service - and to "hope it up." Of course, Obama did.
I know there's a lot more to being a president than speaking voice and Hillary has her good, presidential qualities. I'm quite sure I'll be able to vote for her - just not be as happy to listen to her.
- - Ing, April 23, 2008
Tonight will be here soon. Probably will be a late night.
- - Fair, April 22, 2008
Big day today! Will she win by up to 10 points? 10 or more? Will he pull out a win? Penn. polls close today at 8:00pm so MSNBC will be up with their call right at 8 if feasible. I hope it is not feasible! I can't imagine Obama could win big, so the only way they could call at 8pm is if SHE wins REAL big. His best area is around Philly and I guess their returns have been late, lately, so what will most likely happen is that the race will be "too early to call" at 8 - "too close to call" would be better from my standpoint, but my best realistic hope is that she gets a narrow win. Then all the back and forth will continue at least through May 6 . . .who would have thunk it, last year!
- - Ing, April 22, 2008
You're right about Rove! I would not stop to help the guy, either! But Cheney is creepier - have you caught the new Lewis Black show, The Root of all Evil? Comics square off debating what is worse - a recent pair were Paris Hilton and Cheney. Lewis Black rules - in this case, Cheney was declared the root of all evil!
- - Ing, April 21, 2008
Karl Rove (!!!) gave a good interview to GQ about Hillary vs. Obama. I have a feeling; no wait, I know if I saw him stranded on the side of a road and I knew it was him that I would not stop to help. Seems like a creepy individual always out for something.
- - Fair, April 21, 2008
Sorry I had been getting too insistent about how much better Barack was over Hillary when you had not yet made up your mind. It's quite possible you won't be able to decide by Wednesday morning, either. I wish my candidate had been able to "close the deal" as they say, earlier on. . .
- - Ing, April 21, 2008
I hadn't thought of that, but you're right - I don't recall an urban agenda out of any of them. It would be the best "fit" with Obama, I think. Even thought I live rural, I appreciate lots of things about better urban living/design/policy. . .we were looking at a chart in the paper the other day and it's amazing that when we moved out into the country, gas was approx. $1 a gallon - this was 1997. And now . . .maybe more of a fringe suburban location would have been better for us, esp. the older we get . . . but we just didn't think about that then - we just wanted OUT of the city.
- - Ing, April 17, 2008
I'm sure you can tell from my e-mails that I still am not attached to either Clinton or Obama - just to getting a Dem. elected in November. That is what I care about most. I lean toward Obama because he, to me, can contribute something fresh AND he is from a major city. He hasn't been very forthcoming about an urban agenda (the other two haven't either) which would probably make me an immediate fan and donor.
I am surprised with John McCain - and not in a good way. As of late he seems to be drinking the republican kool-aid. He seems to be getting farther to the right on issues he always thought had nothing to do with government. Perhaps he can get away with it as a technique to court social conservatives while everyone else is side tracked with Clinton/Obama.
- - Fair, April 17, 2008
Yes - I've heard this also. So, do you find things like this interesting in just an intellectual way? Or have you come to "care" about who is the next President yet? Obviously, I care quite a bit - more and more, I can hardly bear to watch Hillary on TV, especially if she is speaking. And I genuinely do believe that Obama could be a different kind of politician, esp. once attacks from his own party began to decline.
If party elders come to her privately and persuade her to get out - no matter how much she resists - that'll be one thing. If she makes it public, at the convention, then I think McCain's chances really go up.
- - Ing, April 17, 2008
I've heard this rumor: Hillary will be asked to "suspend" her campaign and be suggested she take the "opportunity" to run for gov. of NY state.
I think it's interesting... I don't think she'll suspend her campaign without a fight, at least a hidden, back-door brawl.
- - Fair, April 17, 2008
Yes, the debate was on ABC - some of the bloggers have really expressed disdain for the moderators - besides George, also Charlie Gibson. The thought is that they spent so much time on the "trivial" issues which the media likes to go on and on about - bitter-gate, wearing a flag pin or not, some name from past American violent dissent - William Ayers or something? I guess it was a weather underground or similar association, and O. has had very slight interactions with him (membership on the same board?). Obama brought up Hillary's "little woman baking cookies" remarks from 1992 and how he knew back then she was being misportrayed - but now, she has learned the long lesson, just going after these attacks by association, by seeming to be something a person is not, - the Republican playbook, in other words.
Conventional wisdom some weeks or months ago was that Pennsylvania would not be decisive unless Clinton wins by an enormous margin - which, has she ever done? And then she would need to follow up with all of the remaining contests, winning by similar margins. With her negatives? It's just going to turn out to be the worst case scenario - Obama will either have the nomination but be wounded by all her attacks (friendly fire) or she will engineer some super-delegate revolt and alienate the entire black voting bloc and have all her high negatives, to boot - leading us to - BUSH TERM 3!
- - Ing, April 17, 2008
I've tried but can't exactly find the answer to your question. At the CNN site, there's this (bold added):
“At the forum, Clinton said those remarks fed into religious voters' impression of the Democratic Party ‘as a party that didn't understand and respect the values and the way of life of many of our fellow Americans.’
‘We had two very good men, and men of faith, run for president in 2000 and 2004,’ she said, referring to Al Gore and John Kerry. ‘But large segments of the electorate concluded that they did not really understand, or relate to, or frankly respect their ways of life.’
“In his appearance right after Clinton's, Obama responded. ‘I know that Al Gore was mentioned earlier,’ he said. ‘By the way, I have to say, I think Al Gore won. ...’
“ ‘. . .[W]hat I was referring to was in no way demeaning a faith that I myself embrace. What I was saying is that when economic hardship hits in these communities, what people have is they've got family, they've got their faith, they've got the traditions that have been passed onto them from generation to generation,’ said Obama. ‘Those aren't bad things. That's what they have left’"
Probably by "responded", they meant that the moderators repeated to Obama what Clinton had said. My guess would be that some of his staff was assigned to watch her and provide him key points he should respond to. It doesn't seem like he was just in a "green room" watching and waiting his turn.
- - Ing, April 14, 2008
No doubt you're right about needing those votes in the General - but Obama has been learning along the way - I think he'll be able to get enough of them. I'll look for the structure thing.
- - Ing, April 14, 2008
I think we will need those voters to win - it may be an Al Gore situation where Obama gets the popular vote, but the way the rural states/blue collar states vote could tip the electoral vote to McCain (states like IN, OH, and PA).
Let me know if you come across anything that explains the structure of the discussion; specifically if Obama got to watch Hillary's responses. The questions to Clinton and Obama were either the same or very similar.
- - Fair, April 14, 2008
I'm just reading about the Faith Debate and related subjects right now. Somehow, the Faith Debate slipped right by me.
There definitely was a context to what Obama said that made it more palatable and less elitist - in fact, when I first heard what he said, it didn't sound elitist to me at all - just stereotypical and clumsy in execution. But I don't think he's even been counting on blue collar votes in the primaries anyway, and in my opinion, this being April, this will mostly be forgotten by November. The biggest immediate problem is that I think Hillary is getting under his skin on this topic and he's been saying some things back that sound harsh and personal. That always ups the sympathy vote for her among women.
- - Ing, April 14, 2008
Did you watch the "Faith debate" on CNN last night?
I personally think John McCain was right to decline his invitation. I think faith is a personal matter that should not be made such a major part of a campaign. I had a hard time believing some of the what seemed to be calculated statements from both Clinton and Obama, esp. from Clinton. If you watched, do you know if Obama got to see Hillary's interview (she went first) prior to him going on stage?
I think Obama is going to be in trouble with what I'll call traditional blue collar, white male voters in "rust belt" states after the Rev. Wright episode and now the elite comments. I thought it was interesting to hear Hillary stand up for the Second Amendment as if she is/was a gun toting, rabbit skinnin', bark eating hunter... :)
- - Fair, April 14, 2008
"I think I'll join you all the way supporting Obama..." YOU HAD BETTER!
- - Ing, April 4, 2008
I'm to the point now where my patience for the Dem. competition is thinning. Unless Hillary beats Barack by a good margin (if at all) in Penn., I think I'll join you all the way supporting Obama...
- - Fair, April 4, 2008
. . . Back to politics - yeah, perhaps I missed your sarcasm :) about the entitlement thing. But here's what I find perplexing now, and it seems to come from more conservative types, like Tucker Carlson and Bill Ballenger (MIRS): we just don't KNOW Obama. What? Isn't Hillary totally desperate to beat him? Won't the Clinton machine do anything to beat him? Don't they have the best "oppo" research in the business? So, if there is something to uncover about Obama, wouldn't it have come out by now?
- - Ing, April 4, 2008
That was good. You know I was just being funny re: the entitlement comment, right?
- - Fair, April 3, 2008
Not at all! It just proves - all politics are local.
As for entitlement - look at the most famous father-son Republican presidential dynasty there is! (Did you catch the Jon Stewart where he had clips from a recent Bush speech where Bush went on and on about the war, the economy, Katrina, etc. - and Jon was like, I knew it was bad - and we really pay attention here - but not THAT bad . . . so funny.)
- - Ing, April 3, 2008
I think I may, but for this reason: this guy I went to HS with is running for his father's House seat. The senior is term limited and he think his son *should* have his seat. I thought only us Dems believed in entitlement :) Well... I'd like to support . . . instead. . . .
Am I being childish?
- - Fair, April 3, 2008
Will you be voting absentee ballot in Michigan?
- - Ing, April 3, 2008
I actually think the media holds the key to when that line is drawn. To date, McCain has been relatively out of the news - his trip to Iraq barely was a headline to me. The Hillary "lie-for-a-lie" and the Obama pastor/PA gutter ball seemed to capture more attention.
Once the media begins to give McCain his share of time, that is when I hope a decision is made (probably that Hillary exits the race).
- - Fair, April 3, 2008
I do agree with this line of reasoning - up to a point. If Obama will be the ultimate candidate, then when will he be able to start focusing 100% on defeating McCain, instead of defeating Hillary? I'm sure that April or May are soon enough, but June? July? The August convention as Hillary wants? The line is so hard to draw.- - Ing, April 3, 2008
[Maureen Dowd Opinion piece in April 3, 2008 New York Times, “Clinton’s tutorial will toughen up Obama” – example quote: “Whether or not she wins, Hillary Clinton has already given noble service as a sophisticated political tutor for Barack Obama, providing her younger colleague with much-needed seasoning. Who else was going to toughen him up? Howard Dean? John Edwards? Dennis Kucinich?”]
- - Fair, April 3, 2008
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Here are our February 2008 exchanges:
So do you think you'll be going out with friends if you come here on the 28th of March? Knowing you, of course, that is a stupid question - but will you inviting a few of your "older" friends . . .
End of March - by then, if not before, hopefully Obama will have the nom all sewn up . . .sigh.
- - Ing, February 26, 2008
Nothing new for Kwame that I saw. I have a hard time watching Clinton supporters so I didn't really watch Jenny - but her hair looked nice - I think she is growing it out a little.
I really want Obama to win, now, you know - before, it was just a preference, but now I'm turning into an Obamamaniac! SNL was back on the air with new stuff for the first time since the strike - their take on the MSM being totally "in the tank" for Obama was funny. . . .my weekends are rarely "exciting" because we are both such homebodies - but I'm happy to hear that you're having fun! Jon Stewart did fine as Oscars' Host last night!
- - Ing, February 25, 2008
. . . or just tactics of desperation. Simple as that. "You know," I was not aware of the Clinton's involvement with the Wal*Mart corporation. I'm not a fan (although I don't go as far as to think poorly of those that shop there like other non-Wal*Mart fans seem to do) so that's another negative to Sen. Clinton in my neutrality between the two.
Did you see Jennifer Granholm on TV this past weekend with Janet Napolotino (Ariz. gov, I believe)? I missed it and may search on YouTube for the interview later tonight. What's the word with the Mich. Supreme Court and Kwame-gate?
- - Fair, February 25, 2008
I think that Hillary is trying to bait Obama into saying she is having menopausal or post-menopausal mood swings, with the way her tone has changed three times since last Thursday (conciliatory, angry and shaming, sharply sarcastic). But I think he is too smart to fall for this.
- - Ing, February 25, 2008
I can hear it on the audio clip used on WTOP. Seems to be a gradually building Booooooo volume-wise, but gets cut before the audience can end the boo-ing in the low volume range; if that makes sense.
- - Fair, February 22, 2008
Apparently the audience booed at the Xerox comment, but it's been hard for me to pick that up in the clips.
- - Ing, February 22, 2008
I didn't get to see the debate either, but the point you discuss about Hillary not attacking Barack's perceived lack of experience is all over the FM new-talk radio station (WTOP-FM) I am listening to right now. Perhaps later today I will look for the debate, or clips of the debate, online. In addition, they are replaying the audio of the portion of the debate where Hillary mentioned the Xerox comment.
- - Fair, February 22, 2008
So here's what I think about last night's debate, which I didn't watch, but saw excerpts and pundits' talk: Hillary was asked - is Barak ready to be Commander in Chief? She wouldn't directly answer, focusing instead on her own credentials. Her campaign guy - Wolfson (sp) - was more pointed in her behalf. But I believe she has reckoned there is a strong possibility she will not be the nominee and Barak will be - so why hand a line to McCain - "Even his principal opponent for the nomination believes he is not ready to be Commander in Chief!" In other words, this is somewhat sacrificial on her part - good for her! If I'm right (me and some of the pundits).
- - Ing, February 22, 2008
Could be part of the tale of how the Democratic party gift-wrapped the election for John McCain in '08 - but I'm hoping not.
I received the current issue of Time in the mail yesterday. There is an article that covers Hillary's campaign and it hints at the thoughts of entitlement - unprepared ground operations, no thought to campaigning beyond Super Tuesday, hiring loyal aids instead of those best at what they do, etc...
- - Fair, February 21, 2008
Don't agree with his ideology, but his logic is usually quite impeccable; from today's Washington Post, George F. Will column -
“Nothing, however, will assuage Clinton supporters' sense of injustice if the upstart Obama supplants her. Their, and her, sense of entitlement is encapsulated in her constant invocations of her '35 years' of 'experience.' Well.
“She is 60. She left Yale Law School at age 25. Evidently she considers everything she has done since school, from her years at Little Rock's Rose Law Firm to her good fortune with cattle futures, as presidentially relevant experience.
“The president who came to office with the most glittering array of experiences had served 10 years in the House of Representatives, then became minister to Russia, then served 10 years in the Senate, then four years as secretary of state (during a war that enlarged the nation by 33 percent), then was minister to Britain. Then, in 1856, James Buchanan was elected president and in just one term secured a strong claim to being ranked as America's worst president. Abraham Lincoln, the inexperienced former one-term congressman, had an easy act to follow.”
- - Ing, February 21, 2008
T. likes NASCAR but isn't a rabid fan and I'm not a rabid fan of any sport - I like sports stories, though. Yeah, the timing you mention is probably best. I gave to Kerry/Edwards - probably $50 - so that would have been after the ticket was set. I'd like to put a sticker/sign in my car, but T. is real paranoid about it - thinks someone would rear-end the car or something - I'm not sure where he gets that?
- - Ing, February 20, 2008
I will be donating only after there is one candidate to make my scarce resources go the farthest. Obama has enough money for now, at least that's what I remember hearing. Sorry to include NASCAR the way I did in my previous e-mail (not sure if you're a fan). I guess that's a few too many Comedy Central specials under my belt...
How much do you plan to give? I'm thinking around $30 - maybe more or less depending on who it is. Of course a sticker will go on the rear window of my car.
- - Fair, February 20, 2008
Your points are well-taken. And, by the way, Clark's jacket fit well this morning! See - I am more superficial than you.
Even though I am quite logical and analytical in my approaches to things, I am still swayed by the emotional/inspirational appeal Obama has - and the two things are not mutually exclusive. After all, the guy taught constitutional law - can't get much more logical and analytical than that! I just hope the millenials do not lose interest, because right now, I have more faith in them than in bringing over the teeth-and-brain-challenged crowd you reference.
If we do get a Republican, we could do a lot worse than McCain . . .but I want to have HOPE - I should probably go to Obama's web site and donate some $.
- - Ing, February 20, 2008
Regardless of Clark's involvement w/ the ClintonS campaign, I still think Obama will need someone like him (national defense credentials that are generally known to the public) to counter the "lack of experience" statements that the Republicans will toss at him with regard to keeping our troops safe and letting any gains in Iraq (year, right) become lost during a transition. Sen. Obama's age is not of any concern to me, neither is race among younger and educated voters (comment below).
I imagine something like "Can we afford to put our troops at risk by placing a noble vision before solid experience?" ...even though the Bush Admin. continues to only have a sick vision.
I like Clark's views now as I did four years ago - just one of my 2008 hopes. I also think Clark would help ease uneasiness from the uneducated/NASCAR/missing some teeth/lacking brain cells crowd that could be hesitant to vote for, well, remember the '06 Harold Ford Senate campaign in Tennessee? That's unfortunate, but is still alive in more rural, non-diverse portions of the country.
You know I'll be voting, but if the millennials that are all caught up in the Obama moment now get bored/move on to the next hot topic by November, hello President McCain.
- - Fair, February 20, 2008
I was very interested in your theory on Clark - till I saw him this morning on MSNBC in the capacity as a Clinton advisor and possible running mate for her. But who knows . . .
Here's the problem. No way is Hillary going to drop out of the race gracefully. She will lose - eventually - after a lot of pain and angst to the party. Meanwhile, she and her team will dig up and dish out as much dirt on Obama as they can find (or make up?) and then, McCain and the other Republicans will use it all against him.
It will be up to YOU - the millennials - to come out to vote in November in record numbers to get Obama elected!!!
I don't really like political speeches, but I do like listening to Obama - heard his whole speech last night - was up late for me! When Hillary wouldn't concede to him or even mention Wisconsin, he just came on the air and all cable networks went to him. Rude? Well, she started it.
- - Ing, February 20, 2008
Wow- Barack is on a roll. I thought he would capture Wisc., just not by the margin he did. I think Obama will take all remaining states - TX included - with OH being the only one about which I am not sure. I did some research on Gen. Wes Clark as a possible VP. If I had a choice (yeah, right) I think I would suggest to Obama that Gen. Clark be his VP. I remember when he ran for President four years ago - I wanted to vote for him but he dropped out of the race before I had the chance.
- - Fair, February 20, 2008
Haha. Good observation. I'll take ill-fitting collars over someone who shoots friends in the face :)
- - Fair, February 19, 2008
Yes, you are probably right about Wes Clark. He's okay - doesn't "excite" me, really - this is totally trivial, but I have noticed when he is wearing a suit jacket that it doesn't fit him right around the collar area. If he's going to be on TV as a commentator or expert or whatnot, he should get well-fitting jackets! But yes, his military background would be a plus against McCain.
The Free Press pointed out that the woman in the case stepped down right away, but the man stays on - sexism seems to be stronger than racism . . .
- - Ing, February 19, 2008
I've not heard too much on the latest dem squabble. I had friends from the Detroit area fly in Friday PM for the long weekend. . . .
Keep me posted on the latest Clinton-Obama news. I can probably guess that this means she is less likely to be asked to be his running-mate. (Speaking of running mates... I think Wes Clark would make for a good VP with either dem - to counter McCain's "all things military" credentials. Thoughts?) My main focus today and tomorrow will be to see if the Mich. Supreme Court decides to take up Kwame-gate and when/how the text messages and agreements are revealed to the public.
- - Fair, February 19, 2008
I am so annoyed at this latest made-up controversy - Obama PLAGIARIZES! - according to the Clinton camp. Two words: "Just words?" That is the whole extent of the "plagiarizing" from the Gov. of Mass. So they both quote two important phrases - from the "I have a dream" speech and from the Declaration of Independence "We hold these truths to be self-evident. . . " and then to say, "Just words?" Quoting from Bill: "Give me a break!" What is someone going to bring up next: I said "change" first and now you are quoting me without attribution? Oh, if Wisconsin ends up going for Hillary over this, I will be SO disappointed with our neighboring state. . .
- - Ing, February 19, 2008
I hear we may all get to see Mayor Kilpatrick's secret documents by Tuesday.
- - Fair, February 13, 2008
I know what you're talking about with Granholm/Devos - that was pretty funny. As much as I can. I try to tune Hillary out - she really has a grating voice, and a hectoring-school teacher manner. I will definitely vote for her over McCain, but I just hope that isn't the choice.
- - Ing, February 13, 2008
I also think Obama gives great speeches. I like his, what I'll call pointing-finger hand gestures. I still think Gov. Granholm would slice him during a debate (I think she could do that to pretty much anyone from what I've seen). I think both he and Hillary debate at about the same level. That just made me laugh - I had a flashback to one of the Granholm/DeVos debates where he looked like he was staring at bright lights into the camera. Haha- those were some fun TV moments.
Hillary's use of the phase "you know..." is kind of annoying. Have you noticed the "you know..." use?
I've of course been keeping up-to-date on Kwame in the Free Press and News, but not everything always get included online. How about we play the game where we look for honest politicians...
- - Fair, February 13, 2008
The pundits I watch all seem to think that Bill's getting sort of nasty before S. Carolina, backfired on Hillary. So I don't know . . . personally, I am getting pretty tired of Hillary's "day one" readiness mantra. Now, McCain is starting in on Obama - talk of hope is just rhetoric, it doesn't accomplish anything. Yeah, I did notice that Bush-McCane thing from Obama, but the Iraq situation is dicey - depends so much on what's going on right before the election.
How do you like Obama's speech-style? He has been doing great speeches, in my opinion, everytime he wins - the cadences and such - I like that stuff.
The Rev. Al Sharpton was on MSNBC and I actually 100% agreed with him about the votes from the Michigan and Florida primaries and how they shouldn't count because that would be like the officials in a football game coming into the 3rd quarter and just changing all the rules!
The mayor has accused the Detroit Free Press of breaking the law, getting the text messages and such. The city council is pushing back against Kwame - but I don't know. Even if he were incarcerated, I feel like he would still stay on, if that's legal. I know the city council has a lot of power, but I don't know if they could fire him. . . .the moral of the story, if you're going to philander, don't get caught! Didn't he learn anything from Bubba?
- - Ing, February 13, 2008
I'm expecting the Dem. primary to get nasty; what do you think? I'm sure the ClintonS are not happy about Obama's string of wins. I just hope what I suspect will be a visible fight (the media will be watching closely) will not turn folks off of either Obama or Clinton and on to the GOP. Obama, in his celebration speech last night, used the phrase "Bush-McCain" several times (instead of just McCain). Did you happen to catch that? There was extensive local coverage.
So what's the latest with Kwame? That is what people ask about here - about 'that mayor.'
- - Fair, February 13, 2008
I actually didn't have time to meet the primary registration deadline when I moved. It was about two weeks after I moved, around Christmas, and I was so busy getting organized/unpacking/dealing with the holiday's that I didn't even think about it. I actually wish that Michigan did not advance their primary - there would have been more attention on Michigan right about now, at least with the Dem. race (I'm sure it would have had implications on Mitt-ney's strategy). I will be getting a VA license and registering to vote as soon as I feel I can use some time (it's tough starting leave balances from scratch!). I do not think the Mich./FLA rules should be changed half way through either. That isn't fair. I do, however, think that the states should be involved as much as possible in other ways as both will be important in the general election. Upsetting voters over primary rules would be a mistake. I can't even think of an easy resolution...
I just hope that the level of nastiness between the two Dem. camps is at its peak because of the so-called "unified" position of the republican party and the advantages they will try to use while the Dems. decide a nominee.
- - Fair, February 11, 2008
So, do you wish that you had registered to vote in Arlington, so that you could vote in the "Potomac Primary" tomorrow?
The super delegates are coming up as an issue. Should they vote "their conscience" or according to how their state voted? Lani Davis (a Clinton supporter) was on MSNBC this morning saying he participated in the creation of super delegates for the Democrat's process and they were supposed to be an independent voice, so why change the rules in mid-game? Yet, many Clinton supporters say that Michigan and Florida votes should count as cast (majority to Hillary) - talk about changing the rules in the middle of the game! But naturally, the reporters didn't follow up with this. They never follow-up the way I would like.
- - Ing, February 11, 2008
You know that the Daily Show tapes at 5:00pm or so, eastern time, so the polls will have been still open - if you get MSNBC, we recommend that - esp. since FoxNews (or Fox Noise, as Keith Olberman calls it) is so ANTI- MSNBC.
- - Ing, February 5, 2008
I'll be watching the Daily Show tonight to find out who is leading after most of the polls close tonight. John McCain... don't get me wrong, I admire him for his independent decision-making and "straight talk" but I just have to wonder how that political veteran keeps going and going and going and going on the campaign like he does. My assumptions: Hillary will take NY and the southern states (and *probably* NJ); Obama will take Ill and the remainder of the midwest/NE. Not sure how to call Calif. and NJ.
- - Fair, February 5, 2008
Since the Clinton campaign seemed to pull Bill back from being an attack dog on Obama, I have softened my animosity toward her - if she is the candidate after all, I want to feel at least neutral when voting for her. Glad you can see what I'm talking about, some, but . . . you, scripted? I wouldn't say that. Maybe you are a bit less expressive when in professional/meeting situations, as compared to casual situations, but that seems sort of natural to me. And the more time that goes by, who am I to make such judgments - your professional life and style are no doubt evolving. . .
- - Ing, February 5, 2008
As I've been paying closer attention to the dem. campaigns lately I can see why you like (at least I assume) Sen. Obama over Sen. Clinton. While I do not think Hillary is as scripted as some say (I've been told that I seem scripted at times), I like the energy from Obama - hard to explain. I also think it's time we had a President from a large city to bring forward a true "urban agenda."
- - Fair, February 4, 2008
So do you think you'll be going out with friends if you come here on the 28th of March? Knowing you, of course, that is a stupid question - but will you inviting a few of your "older" friends . . .
End of March - by then, if not before, hopefully Obama will have the nom all sewn up . . .sigh.
- - Ing, February 26, 2008
Nothing new for Kwame that I saw. I have a hard time watching Clinton supporters so I didn't really watch Jenny - but her hair looked nice - I think she is growing it out a little.
I really want Obama to win, now, you know - before, it was just a preference, but now I'm turning into an Obamamaniac! SNL was back on the air with new stuff for the first time since the strike - their take on the MSM being totally "in the tank" for Obama was funny. . . .my weekends are rarely "exciting" because we are both such homebodies - but I'm happy to hear that you're having fun! Jon Stewart did fine as Oscars' Host last night!
- - Ing, February 25, 2008
. . . or just tactics of desperation. Simple as that. "You know," I was not aware of the Clinton's involvement with the Wal*Mart corporation. I'm not a fan (although I don't go as far as to think poorly of those that shop there like other non-Wal*Mart fans seem to do) so that's another negative to Sen. Clinton in my neutrality between the two.
Did you see Jennifer Granholm on TV this past weekend with Janet Napolotino (Ariz. gov, I believe)? I missed it and may search on YouTube for the interview later tonight. What's the word with the Mich. Supreme Court and Kwame-gate?
- - Fair, February 25, 2008
I think that Hillary is trying to bait Obama into saying she is having menopausal or post-menopausal mood swings, with the way her tone has changed three times since last Thursday (conciliatory, angry and shaming, sharply sarcastic). But I think he is too smart to fall for this.
- - Ing, February 25, 2008
I can hear it on the audio clip used on WTOP. Seems to be a gradually building Booooooo volume-wise, but gets cut before the audience can end the boo-ing in the low volume range; if that makes sense.
- - Fair, February 22, 2008
Apparently the audience booed at the Xerox comment, but it's been hard for me to pick that up in the clips.
- - Ing, February 22, 2008
I didn't get to see the debate either, but the point you discuss about Hillary not attacking Barack's perceived lack of experience is all over the FM new-talk radio station (WTOP-FM) I am listening to right now. Perhaps later today I will look for the debate, or clips of the debate, online. In addition, they are replaying the audio of the portion of the debate where Hillary mentioned the Xerox comment.
- - Fair, February 22, 2008
So here's what I think about last night's debate, which I didn't watch, but saw excerpts and pundits' talk: Hillary was asked - is Barak ready to be Commander in Chief? She wouldn't directly answer, focusing instead on her own credentials. Her campaign guy - Wolfson (sp) - was more pointed in her behalf. But I believe she has reckoned there is a strong possibility she will not be the nominee and Barak will be - so why hand a line to McCain - "Even his principal opponent for the nomination believes he is not ready to be Commander in Chief!" In other words, this is somewhat sacrificial on her part - good for her! If I'm right (me and some of the pundits).
- - Ing, February 22, 2008
Could be part of the tale of how the Democratic party gift-wrapped the election for John McCain in '08 - but I'm hoping not.
I received the current issue of Time in the mail yesterday. There is an article that covers Hillary's campaign and it hints at the thoughts of entitlement - unprepared ground operations, no thought to campaigning beyond Super Tuesday, hiring loyal aids instead of those best at what they do, etc...
- - Fair, February 21, 2008
Don't agree with his ideology, but his logic is usually quite impeccable; from today's Washington Post, George F. Will column -
“Nothing, however, will assuage Clinton supporters' sense of injustice if the upstart Obama supplants her. Their, and her, sense of entitlement is encapsulated in her constant invocations of her '35 years' of 'experience.' Well.
“She is 60. She left Yale Law School at age 25. Evidently she considers everything she has done since school, from her years at Little Rock's Rose Law Firm to her good fortune with cattle futures, as presidentially relevant experience.
“The president who came to office with the most glittering array of experiences had served 10 years in the House of Representatives, then became minister to Russia, then served 10 years in the Senate, then four years as secretary of state (during a war that enlarged the nation by 33 percent), then was minister to Britain. Then, in 1856, James Buchanan was elected president and in just one term secured a strong claim to being ranked as America's worst president. Abraham Lincoln, the inexperienced former one-term congressman, had an easy act to follow.”
- - Ing, February 21, 2008
T. likes NASCAR but isn't a rabid fan and I'm not a rabid fan of any sport - I like sports stories, though. Yeah, the timing you mention is probably best. I gave to Kerry/Edwards - probably $50 - so that would have been after the ticket was set. I'd like to put a sticker/sign in my car, but T. is real paranoid about it - thinks someone would rear-end the car or something - I'm not sure where he gets that?
- - Ing, February 20, 2008
I will be donating only after there is one candidate to make my scarce resources go the farthest. Obama has enough money for now, at least that's what I remember hearing. Sorry to include NASCAR the way I did in my previous e-mail (not sure if you're a fan). I guess that's a few too many Comedy Central specials under my belt...
How much do you plan to give? I'm thinking around $30 - maybe more or less depending on who it is. Of course a sticker will go on the rear window of my car.
- - Fair, February 20, 2008
Your points are well-taken. And, by the way, Clark's jacket fit well this morning! See - I am more superficial than you.
Even though I am quite logical and analytical in my approaches to things, I am still swayed by the emotional/inspirational appeal Obama has - and the two things are not mutually exclusive. After all, the guy taught constitutional law - can't get much more logical and analytical than that! I just hope the millenials do not lose interest, because right now, I have more faith in them than in bringing over the teeth-and-brain-challenged crowd you reference.
If we do get a Republican, we could do a lot worse than McCain . . .but I want to have HOPE - I should probably go to Obama's web site and donate some $.
- - Ing, February 20, 2008
Regardless of Clark's involvement w/ the ClintonS campaign, I still think Obama will need someone like him (national defense credentials that are generally known to the public) to counter the "lack of experience" statements that the Republicans will toss at him with regard to keeping our troops safe and letting any gains in Iraq (year, right) become lost during a transition. Sen. Obama's age is not of any concern to me, neither is race among younger and educated voters (comment below).
I imagine something like "Can we afford to put our troops at risk by placing a noble vision before solid experience?" ...even though the Bush Admin. continues to only have a sick vision.
I like Clark's views now as I did four years ago - just one of my 2008 hopes. I also think Clark would help ease uneasiness from the uneducated/NASCAR/missing some teeth/lacking brain cells crowd that could be hesitant to vote for, well, remember the '06 Harold Ford Senate campaign in Tennessee? That's unfortunate, but is still alive in more rural, non-diverse portions of the country.
You know I'll be voting, but if the millennials that are all caught up in the Obama moment now get bored/move on to the next hot topic by November, hello President McCain.
- - Fair, February 20, 2008
I was very interested in your theory on Clark - till I saw him this morning on MSNBC in the capacity as a Clinton advisor and possible running mate for her. But who knows . . .
Here's the problem. No way is Hillary going to drop out of the race gracefully. She will lose - eventually - after a lot of pain and angst to the party. Meanwhile, she and her team will dig up and dish out as much dirt on Obama as they can find (or make up?) and then, McCain and the other Republicans will use it all against him.
It will be up to YOU - the millennials - to come out to vote in November in record numbers to get Obama elected!!!
I don't really like political speeches, but I do like listening to Obama - heard his whole speech last night - was up late for me! When Hillary wouldn't concede to him or even mention Wisconsin, he just came on the air and all cable networks went to him. Rude? Well, she started it.
- - Ing, February 20, 2008
Wow- Barack is on a roll. I thought he would capture Wisc., just not by the margin he did. I think Obama will take all remaining states - TX included - with OH being the only one about which I am not sure. I did some research on Gen. Wes Clark as a possible VP. If I had a choice (yeah, right) I think I would suggest to Obama that Gen. Clark be his VP. I remember when he ran for President four years ago - I wanted to vote for him but he dropped out of the race before I had the chance.
- - Fair, February 20, 2008
Haha. Good observation. I'll take ill-fitting collars over someone who shoots friends in the face :)
- - Fair, February 19, 2008
Yes, you are probably right about Wes Clark. He's okay - doesn't "excite" me, really - this is totally trivial, but I have noticed when he is wearing a suit jacket that it doesn't fit him right around the collar area. If he's going to be on TV as a commentator or expert or whatnot, he should get well-fitting jackets! But yes, his military background would be a plus against McCain.
The Free Press pointed out that the woman in the case stepped down right away, but the man stays on - sexism seems to be stronger than racism . . .
- - Ing, February 19, 2008
I've not heard too much on the latest dem squabble. I had friends from the Detroit area fly in Friday PM for the long weekend. . . .
Keep me posted on the latest Clinton-Obama news. I can probably guess that this means she is less likely to be asked to be his running-mate. (Speaking of running mates... I think Wes Clark would make for a good VP with either dem - to counter McCain's "all things military" credentials. Thoughts?) My main focus today and tomorrow will be to see if the Mich. Supreme Court decides to take up Kwame-gate and when/how the text messages and agreements are revealed to the public.
- - Fair, February 19, 2008
I am so annoyed at this latest made-up controversy - Obama PLAGIARIZES! - according to the Clinton camp. Two words: "Just words?" That is the whole extent of the "plagiarizing" from the Gov. of Mass. So they both quote two important phrases - from the "I have a dream" speech and from the Declaration of Independence "We hold these truths to be self-evident. . . " and then to say, "Just words?" Quoting from Bill: "Give me a break!" What is someone going to bring up next: I said "change" first and now you are quoting me without attribution? Oh, if Wisconsin ends up going for Hillary over this, I will be SO disappointed with our neighboring state. . .
- - Ing, February 19, 2008
I hear we may all get to see Mayor Kilpatrick's secret documents by Tuesday.
- - Fair, February 13, 2008
I know what you're talking about with Granholm/Devos - that was pretty funny. As much as I can. I try to tune Hillary out - she really has a grating voice, and a hectoring-school teacher manner. I will definitely vote for her over McCain, but I just hope that isn't the choice.
- - Ing, February 13, 2008
I also think Obama gives great speeches. I like his, what I'll call pointing-finger hand gestures. I still think Gov. Granholm would slice him during a debate (I think she could do that to pretty much anyone from what I've seen). I think both he and Hillary debate at about the same level. That just made me laugh - I had a flashback to one of the Granholm/DeVos debates where he looked like he was staring at bright lights into the camera. Haha- those were some fun TV moments.
Hillary's use of the phase "you know..." is kind of annoying. Have you noticed the "you know..." use?
I've of course been keeping up-to-date on Kwame in the Free Press and News, but not everything always get included online. How about we play the game where we look for honest politicians...
- - Fair, February 13, 2008
The pundits I watch all seem to think that Bill's getting sort of nasty before S. Carolina, backfired on Hillary. So I don't know . . . personally, I am getting pretty tired of Hillary's "day one" readiness mantra. Now, McCain is starting in on Obama - talk of hope is just rhetoric, it doesn't accomplish anything. Yeah, I did notice that Bush-McCane thing from Obama, but the Iraq situation is dicey - depends so much on what's going on right before the election.
How do you like Obama's speech-style? He has been doing great speeches, in my opinion, everytime he wins - the cadences and such - I like that stuff.
The Rev. Al Sharpton was on MSNBC and I actually 100% agreed with him about the votes from the Michigan and Florida primaries and how they shouldn't count because that would be like the officials in a football game coming into the 3rd quarter and just changing all the rules!
The mayor has accused the Detroit Free Press of breaking the law, getting the text messages and such. The city council is pushing back against Kwame - but I don't know. Even if he were incarcerated, I feel like he would still stay on, if that's legal. I know the city council has a lot of power, but I don't know if they could fire him. . . .the moral of the story, if you're going to philander, don't get caught! Didn't he learn anything from Bubba?
- - Ing, February 13, 2008
I'm expecting the Dem. primary to get nasty; what do you think? I'm sure the ClintonS are not happy about Obama's string of wins. I just hope what I suspect will be a visible fight (the media will be watching closely) will not turn folks off of either Obama or Clinton and on to the GOP. Obama, in his celebration speech last night, used the phrase "Bush-McCain" several times (instead of just McCain). Did you happen to catch that? There was extensive local coverage.
So what's the latest with Kwame? That is what people ask about here - about 'that mayor.'
- - Fair, February 13, 2008
I actually didn't have time to meet the primary registration deadline when I moved. It was about two weeks after I moved, around Christmas, and I was so busy getting organized/unpacking/dealing with the holiday's that I didn't even think about it. I actually wish that Michigan did not advance their primary - there would have been more attention on Michigan right about now, at least with the Dem. race (I'm sure it would have had implications on Mitt-ney's strategy). I will be getting a VA license and registering to vote as soon as I feel I can use some time (it's tough starting leave balances from scratch!). I do not think the Mich./FLA rules should be changed half way through either. That isn't fair. I do, however, think that the states should be involved as much as possible in other ways as both will be important in the general election. Upsetting voters over primary rules would be a mistake. I can't even think of an easy resolution...
I just hope that the level of nastiness between the two Dem. camps is at its peak because of the so-called "unified" position of the republican party and the advantages they will try to use while the Dems. decide a nominee.
- - Fair, February 11, 2008
So, do you wish that you had registered to vote in Arlington, so that you could vote in the "Potomac Primary" tomorrow?
The super delegates are coming up as an issue. Should they vote "their conscience" or according to how their state voted? Lani Davis (a Clinton supporter) was on MSNBC this morning saying he participated in the creation of super delegates for the Democrat's process and they were supposed to be an independent voice, so why change the rules in mid-game? Yet, many Clinton supporters say that Michigan and Florida votes should count as cast (majority to Hillary) - talk about changing the rules in the middle of the game! But naturally, the reporters didn't follow up with this. They never follow-up the way I would like.
- - Ing, February 11, 2008
You know that the Daily Show tapes at 5:00pm or so, eastern time, so the polls will have been still open - if you get MSNBC, we recommend that - esp. since FoxNews (or Fox Noise, as Keith Olberman calls it) is so ANTI- MSNBC.
- - Ing, February 5, 2008
I'll be watching the Daily Show tonight to find out who is leading after most of the polls close tonight. John McCain... don't get me wrong, I admire him for his independent decision-making and "straight talk" but I just have to wonder how that political veteran keeps going and going and going and going on the campaign like he does. My assumptions: Hillary will take NY and the southern states (and *probably* NJ); Obama will take Ill and the remainder of the midwest/NE. Not sure how to call Calif. and NJ.
- - Fair, February 5, 2008
Since the Clinton campaign seemed to pull Bill back from being an attack dog on Obama, I have softened my animosity toward her - if she is the candidate after all, I want to feel at least neutral when voting for her. Glad you can see what I'm talking about, some, but . . . you, scripted? I wouldn't say that. Maybe you are a bit less expressive when in professional/meeting situations, as compared to casual situations, but that seems sort of natural to me. And the more time that goes by, who am I to make such judgments - your professional life and style are no doubt evolving. . .
- - Ing, February 5, 2008
As I've been paying closer attention to the dem. campaigns lately I can see why you like (at least I assume) Sen. Obama over Sen. Clinton. While I do not think Hillary is as scripted as some say (I've been told that I seem scripted at times), I like the energy from Obama - hard to explain. I also think it's time we had a President from a large city to bring forward a true "urban agenda."
- - Fair, February 4, 2008
Here are our January 2008 exchanges (sorry for being out of order - just ended up that way):
I just hope Hillary isn't able to get Michigan votes counted - if Obama could have campaigned in Mich., I sure would have voted for him and many many others would have also - her going after those delegates now, in the words of Keith Oberman (MSNBC Countdown - formerly Sportscenter) would be changing the rules while the game has already started - the sort of nasty trick the ClintonS have no compunction at pulling –
- - Ing, January 29, 2008
The reason I am not feeling too strongly about either Dem. candidate is because I will end up supporting which ever becomes nominated. I am turned off by the Clinton's (mostly Bill's) actions of late - but I still would support either Hillary or Obama over someone on the other side. President Clinton's comment about past winners of the SC primary was out of taste. I guess for once I'm not getting on any band wagon... just yet at least.
- - Fair, January 29, 2008
So have you had time to keep up with the ongoing political saga? Obama's big win in S.C. and Bill Clinton dissing it? The Kennedy "pass the torch" endorsements? Why are you holding back on becoming an all out Obama supporter? ;->
- - Ing, January 29, 2008
I get a shorter version of the Washington Post, the Washington Express, that is distributed free to Metrorail riders. Unfortunately that reads more like a complimentary tabloid (think Lansing NOISE from the LSJ) with day old headlines. I don't have much time to review the website really, other than checking in on the updated headlines. As a gen-Y er, I continue to rely on the Daily Show as my main source of information ;->
- - Fair, January 23, 2008
Yes, there was a truce, but during that S.C. debate, Obama and Hillary really went at each other - John E. would say - there are three of here in this debate - and the pundits, said yes, but the three were Obama, Hillary and Bill. Do you ever read stories or columns at www.washingtonpost.com ? That'll keep you up-to-date (plus they have a local section about your own backyard ;-> ).
Did you hear that Ted Kennedy and someone else of that stature asked Bill to back off? But he won't - they are like children - He started it! Mom, she did it! etc.
- - Ing, January 23, 2008
I did hear about the coke-head volley that was thrown from the Clinton camp but immediately dismissed it as ridiculous. Was there not some sort of truce agreement by Obama and the Clinton's? Wasn't the Edwards campaign getting upset that John Edwards was losing a good amount of face-time because of the Obama-Clinton discussions during the S.C. debate?
- - Fair, January 23, 2008
I tend to get invested in the stories, the narratives, and inevitably, the personal nature of these things. Yes, Bill was very popular with black voters - since when does the popularity of a spouse with a group translate to the president? That sort of thing has been reserved in the past to the Vice Presidential candidate.
The other thing has to do with tactics - if Bill and Hillary are so pro-african-american, why are they trying so hard, either directly or indirectly through surrogates, to portray Obama, the first credible black candidate, as unready, unconvincing, inconsistent, a former coke-head, etc. Of course politics are dirty, but I'm afraid the Clintons have only just begun to show how dirty they can get in their relentless pursuit of a return sojourn in the White House.
In my opinion, back when the Monica saga broke, I believe Hillary made a bargain with Bill - I will not leave you, I will support you if, when the time comes, you will support me with everything you've got, for me to be president.
The whole thing would be a lot "cleaner" if the possible first woman president - a good Democrat, don't get me wrong - didn't have a former president as a potential first gentleman.
I hope you get a chance to follow this more. And you're right about the sniping - it just makes Democrats look bad.
- - Ing, January 23, 2008
To be honest, the reason I did not respond is because I was not following the events all that closely. The most I know is what was included in the last issue of Time magazine - but that was before Bill got involved. Of course this is only bringing negative media attention to the Dems.
Perhaps Bill got involved to sort of even out the "race issue" since Bill Clinton was so popular among African Americans. Hillary doesn't seem to be as popular, at least at this point, among African Americans. Maybe that is only because of Obama's candidacy; I'm not sure.
Either is OK. I prefer Obama as the agent of change (I'm thinking brooms on K Street - was that Nancy Pelosi's photo op?); as a policy wonk/bureaucrat, however, I support Hillary Clinton and the comfort zone that, in my mind, she would bring. My lack of passion toward one or the other may also be a function of "anything but another Republican."
- - Fair, January 23, 2008
When you have time, I'd still like to hear your opinion of the Obama/ClintonS (both of them) dust-ups. Are you still neutral? Either Democrat is okay?
- - Ing, January 23, 2008
McCain would be tough as an opponent to Obama, less so for Hillary. But I have become all turned off against the Clintons. I agree with those who perceive them as operating a "machine" and that they have the superlative ability to spin anything into anything - e.g., Obama saying that Reagan was an agent for change but Bill wasn't. Immediately the Clintonites said, oh Obama likes Reagan and Republican ideas best! When actually, it was the more subtle idea of who, for better or worse, had the most far-reaching impact. (Bill could have been such an agent, had he not gotten bogged down in his inability to control his sex life.) This subtle point of Obama's is lost on observers, just like Time magazine has made Hitler and Stalin men of the year. It doesn't mean you agree with them! Just that they had the greatest impact.
Back to the Repubs - if Democrats really mess things up and lose the election, there are worse possibilities than McCain (such as Rudy or Huckabee - what would Huck do, make Chuck a goodwill ambassador?). My Repub guy, Mitt-ney - I think he bristles too much. Hillary would be a good match to him as well . . .
I wonder - could it be Hillary/Obama as a ticket, in that order? Would Obama accept that? That would be a pretty formidable ticket. But Obama and Bill would have to make nice. . . .
- - Ing, January 22, 2008
Did you see the "dust-up" between Mitt-ney and an AP reporter yesterday? The reporter kept saying, you do have a lobbyist running your campaign, and Mitt-ney was all, Listen to my words, I don't, that guy is just an adviser, so-and-so RUNS my campaign and she is not a lobbyist. Mitt is sort of geeky in a way, and reporters love to call him out on "it depends on what the definition of is is" sorts of word-fights. I just don't think it is going to redound to Mittney's favor in the end,
Funny about the snow - but just you wait till next July or August - are you going to be okay with sweltering, humid heat!
- - Ing, January 18, 2008
I am happy that Mitt-ney won our state for two reasons:
1) I think it would be neat to have a President from Michigan in Washington - even if it means a Republican is there.
2) Mitt-ney is one of two (the other being Rudy) Republicans that I could actually live with if I was forced to accept a Republican candidate.
As I mentioned earlier, I think our state "won" overall because of the media attention. Even this morning on talk radio there was mention of how the Michigan primary helped bring the economy to be a front and center issue, even though it should have been all along.
Metro D.C. got about 1-2" of snow yesterday. You would have thought the world was ending the way some were acting. Schools began closing before any snow fell :), and the roads... what a mess. Cars and trucks everywhere - which I saw out of my fast-moving Orange Line train on the commute home.
Have a good weekend. We have MLK off on Monday. Today was Lee-Jackson Day in VA. Not an official holiday "inside the beltway" - incl. FFX County, only out yonder. State of VA offices are closed.
- - Fair, January 18, 2008
So - I'm happy Mitt-ney won Michigan and that Dem. - uncommitted was as high as it was.
- - Ing, January 18, 2008
Michigan moving the primary up did accomplish one thing: our state has been prominently in the news for the past week - esp. since the N.H. primary ended - including on the local D.C. network affiliates. Along with the extensive election coverage has been discussion of the struggling Michigan economy, the 'Detroit Three' and the NAIAS.
- - Fair, January 15, 2008
When T. went to the store to get newspapers this morning, shortly after 7 am, he said there was a "traffic jam" in the vicinity of Onondaga Twp. Hall - our polling place. So maybe turnout will be good. I'll vote on my way home from work. How does it work with absentee ballots? Have you mailed yours in already?
- - Ing, January 15, 2008
Hahaha - I was wondering what your "uncommitted R" strategy was before reading the corrected e-mail. You could help to spoil the R primary by voting Rudy Giuliani.
- - Fair, January 14, 2008
I've been very wishy-washy about the primary tomorrow - but I'm pretty sure I will vote for Mitt-ney. Other choice is uncommitted on Republican - I mean Democratic ballot. Pretty interesting election year!
- - Ing, January 14, 2008
Speaking of true VA... funny story: there is a calendar that compares the holidays off for FFX County, Fed, and state of VA employees. The state of VA (not FFX) gives its employees "Lee-Jackson Day" off. Of course, this "yank" had to ask, What is Lee-Jackson Day?
At least I got smiles back in response.
- - Fair, January 14, 2008
I guess voting in a primary is based on more idealistic, odd, or "romantic" reasons - but when it comes to the general election, it should be all about PARTY party party - I'm sure I've explained my reasoning before - our legislatures are organized by party and they and the partisan executive get things done. So looks and personality don't much matter except to the extent they help someone be a schmoozer.
In my opinion, Mitt-ney is the best looking person of the entire bunch - in a bland, Clark Kent kind of way. Worst looking - it's a tie between aw-shucks-Gomer Huckabee (Andy Griffith Show? Gomer Pyle? If you know them, it would only be from TVLand) and Rudy, who reminds T. and I of Nosferatau (the vampire Dracula in an early silent movie).
- - Ing, January 9, 2008
I'll probably end up doing the same for the Mich. primary; Mitt-ney that is. I just laugh as I see these old white men on T.V. saying how "women" must be voting for Obama because of his looks or Hillary out of sympathy - saying women vote based on "celebrity factors" in a not-so-direct way (leaving the assumption that men conduct in-depth analyses of the candidates - ha ;)
- - Fair, January 9, 2008
My favorite candidate had been John Edwards but now he seems too much of a long shot. So I've switched to Obama. I never have cared for Hillary, although I'd certainly vote for her in the general election. I saw the whole thing with her not-quite-crying-but-voice-breaking. To me, it was just too convenient - how could she almost cry and still be able to handle her microphone so well while doing it.
Anybody but Huckabee! I'm pretty sure I will vote for Mittney in the Mich. Primary.
- - Ing, January 9, 2008
I was just happy to see Mike Huckabee NOT win :) Did you feel sorry for Hillary after seeing her tear up on T.V.? The local 24-hour news channel (affiliated with ABC) was conducting interviews... people were saying that Hillary was got sympathy votes from women instead of their "he's good looking" votes going to Obama.
- - Fair, January 9, 2008
I wanted the Obama "story" to continue with him winning N.H. But maybe this loss is a good lesson for him.
- - Ing, January 9, 2008
I just hope Hillary isn't able to get Michigan votes counted - if Obama could have campaigned in Mich., I sure would have voted for him and many many others would have also - her going after those delegates now, in the words of Keith Oberman (MSNBC Countdown - formerly Sportscenter) would be changing the rules while the game has already started - the sort of nasty trick the ClintonS have no compunction at pulling –
- - Ing, January 29, 2008
The reason I am not feeling too strongly about either Dem. candidate is because I will end up supporting which ever becomes nominated. I am turned off by the Clinton's (mostly Bill's) actions of late - but I still would support either Hillary or Obama over someone on the other side. President Clinton's comment about past winners of the SC primary was out of taste. I guess for once I'm not getting on any band wagon... just yet at least.
- - Fair, January 29, 2008
So have you had time to keep up with the ongoing political saga? Obama's big win in S.C. and Bill Clinton dissing it? The Kennedy "pass the torch" endorsements? Why are you holding back on becoming an all out Obama supporter? ;->
- - Ing, January 29, 2008
I get a shorter version of the Washington Post, the Washington Express, that is distributed free to Metrorail riders. Unfortunately that reads more like a complimentary tabloid (think Lansing NOISE from the LSJ) with day old headlines. I don't have much time to review the website really, other than checking in on the updated headlines. As a gen-Y er, I continue to rely on the Daily Show as my main source of information ;->
- - Fair, January 23, 2008
Yes, there was a truce, but during that S.C. debate, Obama and Hillary really went at each other - John E. would say - there are three of here in this debate - and the pundits, said yes, but the three were Obama, Hillary and Bill. Do you ever read stories or columns at www.washingtonpost.com ? That'll keep you up-to-date (plus they have a local section about your own backyard ;-> ).
Did you hear that Ted Kennedy and someone else of that stature asked Bill to back off? But he won't - they are like children - He started it! Mom, she did it! etc.
- - Ing, January 23, 2008
I did hear about the coke-head volley that was thrown from the Clinton camp but immediately dismissed it as ridiculous. Was there not some sort of truce agreement by Obama and the Clinton's? Wasn't the Edwards campaign getting upset that John Edwards was losing a good amount of face-time because of the Obama-Clinton discussions during the S.C. debate?
- - Fair, January 23, 2008
I tend to get invested in the stories, the narratives, and inevitably, the personal nature of these things. Yes, Bill was very popular with black voters - since when does the popularity of a spouse with a group translate to the president? That sort of thing has been reserved in the past to the Vice Presidential candidate.
The other thing has to do with tactics - if Bill and Hillary are so pro-african-american, why are they trying so hard, either directly or indirectly through surrogates, to portray Obama, the first credible black candidate, as unready, unconvincing, inconsistent, a former coke-head, etc. Of course politics are dirty, but I'm afraid the Clintons have only just begun to show how dirty they can get in their relentless pursuit of a return sojourn in the White House.
In my opinion, back when the Monica saga broke, I believe Hillary made a bargain with Bill - I will not leave you, I will support you if, when the time comes, you will support me with everything you've got, for me to be president.
The whole thing would be a lot "cleaner" if the possible first woman president - a good Democrat, don't get me wrong - didn't have a former president as a potential first gentleman.
I hope you get a chance to follow this more. And you're right about the sniping - it just makes Democrats look bad.
- - Ing, January 23, 2008
To be honest, the reason I did not respond is because I was not following the events all that closely. The most I know is what was included in the last issue of Time magazine - but that was before Bill got involved. Of course this is only bringing negative media attention to the Dems.
Perhaps Bill got involved to sort of even out the "race issue" since Bill Clinton was so popular among African Americans. Hillary doesn't seem to be as popular, at least at this point, among African Americans. Maybe that is only because of Obama's candidacy; I'm not sure.
Either is OK. I prefer Obama as the agent of change (I'm thinking brooms on K Street - was that Nancy Pelosi's photo op?); as a policy wonk/bureaucrat, however, I support Hillary Clinton and the comfort zone that, in my mind, she would bring. My lack of passion toward one or the other may also be a function of "anything but another Republican."
- - Fair, January 23, 2008
When you have time, I'd still like to hear your opinion of the Obama/ClintonS (both of them) dust-ups. Are you still neutral? Either Democrat is okay?
- - Ing, January 23, 2008
McCain would be tough as an opponent to Obama, less so for Hillary. But I have become all turned off against the Clintons. I agree with those who perceive them as operating a "machine" and that they have the superlative ability to spin anything into anything - e.g., Obama saying that Reagan was an agent for change but Bill wasn't. Immediately the Clintonites said, oh Obama likes Reagan and Republican ideas best! When actually, it was the more subtle idea of who, for better or worse, had the most far-reaching impact. (Bill could have been such an agent, had he not gotten bogged down in his inability to control his sex life.) This subtle point of Obama's is lost on observers, just like Time magazine has made Hitler and Stalin men of the year. It doesn't mean you agree with them! Just that they had the greatest impact.
Back to the Repubs - if Democrats really mess things up and lose the election, there are worse possibilities than McCain (such as Rudy or Huckabee - what would Huck do, make Chuck a goodwill ambassador?). My Repub guy, Mitt-ney - I think he bristles too much. Hillary would be a good match to him as well . . .
I wonder - could it be Hillary/Obama as a ticket, in that order? Would Obama accept that? That would be a pretty formidable ticket. But Obama and Bill would have to make nice. . . .
- - Ing, January 22, 2008
Did you see the "dust-up" between Mitt-ney and an AP reporter yesterday? The reporter kept saying, you do have a lobbyist running your campaign, and Mitt-ney was all, Listen to my words, I don't, that guy is just an adviser, so-and-so RUNS my campaign and she is not a lobbyist. Mitt is sort of geeky in a way, and reporters love to call him out on "it depends on what the definition of is is" sorts of word-fights. I just don't think it is going to redound to Mittney's favor in the end,
Funny about the snow - but just you wait till next July or August - are you going to be okay with sweltering, humid heat!
- - Ing, January 18, 2008
I am happy that Mitt-ney won our state for two reasons:
1) I think it would be neat to have a President from Michigan in Washington - even if it means a Republican is there.
2) Mitt-ney is one of two (the other being Rudy) Republicans that I could actually live with if I was forced to accept a Republican candidate.
As I mentioned earlier, I think our state "won" overall because of the media attention. Even this morning on talk radio there was mention of how the Michigan primary helped bring the economy to be a front and center issue, even though it should have been all along.
Metro D.C. got about 1-2" of snow yesterday. You would have thought the world was ending the way some were acting. Schools began closing before any snow fell :), and the roads... what a mess. Cars and trucks everywhere - which I saw out of my fast-moving Orange Line train on the commute home.
Have a good weekend. We have MLK off on Monday. Today was Lee-Jackson Day in VA. Not an official holiday "inside the beltway" - incl. FFX County, only out yonder. State of VA offices are closed.
- - Fair, January 18, 2008
So - I'm happy Mitt-ney won Michigan and that Dem. - uncommitted was as high as it was.
- - Ing, January 18, 2008
Michigan moving the primary up did accomplish one thing: our state has been prominently in the news for the past week - esp. since the N.H. primary ended - including on the local D.C. network affiliates. Along with the extensive election coverage has been discussion of the struggling Michigan economy, the 'Detroit Three' and the NAIAS.
- - Fair, January 15, 2008
When T. went to the store to get newspapers this morning, shortly after 7 am, he said there was a "traffic jam" in the vicinity of Onondaga Twp. Hall - our polling place. So maybe turnout will be good. I'll vote on my way home from work. How does it work with absentee ballots? Have you mailed yours in already?
- - Ing, January 15, 2008
Hahaha - I was wondering what your "uncommitted R" strategy was before reading the corrected e-mail. You could help to spoil the R primary by voting Rudy Giuliani.
- - Fair, January 14, 2008
I've been very wishy-washy about the primary tomorrow - but I'm pretty sure I will vote for Mitt-ney. Other choice is uncommitted on Republican - I mean Democratic ballot. Pretty interesting election year!
- - Ing, January 14, 2008
Speaking of true VA... funny story: there is a calendar that compares the holidays off for FFX County, Fed, and state of VA employees. The state of VA (not FFX) gives its employees "Lee-Jackson Day" off. Of course, this "yank" had to ask, What is Lee-Jackson Day?
At least I got smiles back in response.
- - Fair, January 14, 2008
I guess voting in a primary is based on more idealistic, odd, or "romantic" reasons - but when it comes to the general election, it should be all about PARTY party party - I'm sure I've explained my reasoning before - our legislatures are organized by party and they and the partisan executive get things done. So looks and personality don't much matter except to the extent they help someone be a schmoozer.
In my opinion, Mitt-ney is the best looking person of the entire bunch - in a bland, Clark Kent kind of way. Worst looking - it's a tie between aw-shucks-Gomer Huckabee (Andy Griffith Show? Gomer Pyle? If you know them, it would only be from TVLand) and Rudy, who reminds T. and I of Nosferatau (the vampire Dracula in an early silent movie).
- - Ing, January 9, 2008
I'll probably end up doing the same for the Mich. primary; Mitt-ney that is. I just laugh as I see these old white men on T.V. saying how "women" must be voting for Obama because of his looks or Hillary out of sympathy - saying women vote based on "celebrity factors" in a not-so-direct way (leaving the assumption that men conduct in-depth analyses of the candidates - ha ;)
- - Fair, January 9, 2008
My favorite candidate had been John Edwards but now he seems too much of a long shot. So I've switched to Obama. I never have cared for Hillary, although I'd certainly vote for her in the general election. I saw the whole thing with her not-quite-crying-but-voice-breaking. To me, it was just too convenient - how could she almost cry and still be able to handle her microphone so well while doing it.
Anybody but Huckabee! I'm pretty sure I will vote for Mittney in the Mich. Primary.
- - Ing, January 9, 2008
I was just happy to see Mike Huckabee NOT win :) Did you feel sorry for Hillary after seeing her tear up on T.V.? The local 24-hour news channel (affiliated with ABC) was conducting interviews... people were saying that Hillary was got sympathy votes from women instead of their "he's good looking" votes going to Obama.
- - Fair, January 9, 2008
I wanted the Obama "story" to continue with him winning N.H. But maybe this loss is a good lesson for him.
- - Ing, January 9, 2008
When we had the idea for this blog, we had already been discussing political issues for months. To catch up to the present, previous exchanges have been compiled by month, back to January 2008. The following are exchanges in March 2008:
Kwame just has no honor, in the traditional sense. He just has his exaggerated sense of his own importance. So many in power these days, worldwide, seem to think that only they can save their city or their country, and so they cling to power no matter who calls for their peaceful departure.
- - Ing, March 25, 2008
The negative news about the Mayor is not good for Detroit or Michigan - I think he should have resigned weeks ago. People are discussing the Kwame Kilpatrick scandal out here.
- - Fair, March 25, 2008
It's pretty apparent that the Defense for Kwame is going to be that the text messages were obtained illegally or in some way get them thrown out as evidence, that the prosecution is selective, because the prosecutor's office has never charged anyone with perjury in a civil matter before . . . yes, theoretically it is possible that K. could be legally exonerated. But what about the court of public opinion? Since when is the legal definition of "not guilty" the only thing that defines integrity and morality? Everyone in the public knows that K. lied under oath, whether it holds up in court or not. What about high office public servants being held to a higher standard?
- - Ing, March 25, 2008
Hillary supporters could have assumed similar to what I was assuming. Since she was the only candidate that remained "committed to Michigan" - regardless of bureaucratic rules - she would end up winning the state and what fun it would be to play with the republican primary.
- - Fair, March 19, 2008
I don't know if it was in Gongwer or MIRS but a state rep. (D.) from Alpena said an estimated 100,000 voted in the Republican Primary but were really Democrats or Independents. And of course, these folks, if there were a do-over, would be more likely to vote for Obama. If they supported Hillary why not just have voted for her January 15th?
- - Ing, March 19, 2008
I didn't listen to The Speech. I did read about it, however. I voted absentee in the primary... for Mitt-ney :) I thought the dem. race would be a waste since Hillary was the only major candidate and I thought the primary would just be a set of motions for her campaign. How wrong I was...
- - Fair, March 19, 2008
So did you listen to The Speech?? I did not, but heard plenty of excerpts and commentary after the fact. I am so "in the tank" for Obama that I don't want to listen to or read anything critical of The Speech. After all, I'm white - how can I relate to the Black-church social gospel and commentary on being black in America? If the black commentators - any many white ones - mostly think he did a good, even great, job, that's good enough for me!
I can't remember - when you voted absentee ballot in the January 15 primary - you did vote, right? - did you vote the Democratic or the Republican ballot? Not that it will likely matter, as the report says - the do-over primary is probably quite unlikely at this point.
- - Ing, March 19, 2008
I guess I am following Kwame more on the back burner since there seem to be so many institutional delays in anything happening. Without knowing all the ins and outs, I'd like for him to resign. But he feels that he is indispensable to renewal and progress in Detroit - do you agree with that?
- - Ing, March 18, 2008
I've engaged myself to the extreme re: the Kwame scandal. The Dem. primary is sort of in the back of my mind - for now at least. Sounds like it is good the videos were exposed now - not so much to benefit Hillary, but to make it "old news" before the republicans attack. I actually, in my opinion, think it is good to have Hillary and Obama throw volleys at each other now - friendly fire I guess you could say - because the republicans will only be worse. When the republicans rehash it, hopefully, any material will be viewed as old news in this world of sound bytes and short attention spans.
- - Fair, March 18, 2008
Well, my candidate is in some trouble now with his Pastor's words out there on the "internets" and cable TV. Hopefully, best case scenario, it's good this came out now, instead of right before the Pennsylvania primary or even the general election, if Obama prevails that far. Yeah, I know these videos were actually out a year ago or so, but no one was paying real close attention.
- - Ing, March 18, 2008
I just watched this and he just seems like such a lawyer, such a prosecutor to me. I'm actually impressed with how much detail lawyers keep in their head in order to answer questions extemporaneously - and to make the answers into what they want to answer - yes, I'll give you that.
- - Ing, March 13, 2008
Take a look at www.WXYZ.com and click on the "Mike Cox Raw Interview" (at the right of the page under the video screen) link. Just watched; new to me - seems slippery.
- - Fair, March 13, 2008
I agree that the Clintons - perhaps they did not instigate Ms. Ferraro's remarks - but I definitely think they are playing them to the hilt! I don't know why her supporters think it is so wonderful to be so connivingand Machiavellian - I agree with those who now say she is playing all out only for herself, with no thought for the party, the future or anything. I still think her primary motivation is to one-up the vaunted political skills of her husband - this is still all payback for her "wronged wife" humiliation.I don't know about Cox - in many respects I totally disagree with him - on Kwame - he certainly may have the right idea! Cox is clearly running for 2010 Governor.
- - Ing, March 13, 2008
Forgot to mention - I think Ms. Ferraro looks sort of like Leona Helmsly - that Italian manly-for-a-woman look. Just an observation.
- - Fair, March 13, 2008
Heard about the latest little brouhaha in the campaign? Geraldine Ferraro - VP candidate in 1984 (let's see - you were a toddler then?) saying that Obama is only where he is and lucky to be where he isbecause he's black. When Obama's campaign responded that that was unfortunate as racial, Geraldine accussed Obama of playing the race card! She has resigned as a Clinton fund raiser, but she can't stopspouting off.
- - Ing, March 13, 2008
I know you don't know much about Spitzer - don't know if you're following that at all, but his case is SO ironic. He was caught by massive software programs that do data-mining of ALL wire/online money transfers. The software looks for certain patterns and flags things. He was flagged before anyone knew anything about high-priced hookers. AND - when he was NY AG, he INSISTED NY banks have and use this software!
- - Ing, March 12, 2008
I did see that. I watched a clip of a press conference from Channel 7 on WXYZ.com. We'll just have to wait out the two weeks. Meantime, the NY state gov. resigned after something that broke, what, maybe two/three DAYS ago...
- - Fair, March 12, 2008
Did you see where Ms. Worthy says it will be two more weeks before she can say if there will be charges filed against the Mayor? The comments at the online papers don't think this is a good sign for "justice."
- - Ing, March 12, 2008
I listened to the address live from the WJLB-FM website. I thought it interesting that WJLB broadcast the Mayor's speech - WJLB is the Detroit markets leading hip-hop station, not a news/talk station.I heard the accusations and think they were ridiculous. An article in today's Freep or News hit it right, referencing last year's speech where Kilpatrick said Detroiters need to take responsibility for themselves.He even took what I thought was a swipe at Granholm, mentioning at first how there is no urban agenda in Washington from the current administration (we can't count on Washington), but also how there is alack of urban leadership in Lansing (we can't count on Lansing).
- - Fair, March 12, 2008
Did you hear about Kwame's angry accusations at the Detroit media last night? It made the national TV news in various outlets and NPR.
- - Ing, March 12, 2008
Crist is a good looking man of a certain age, I agree ;->
- - Ing, March 10, 2008
I'm not that familiar with Spitzer, but I would have guessed that bronzed, beach-going FLA gov. before Spitzer. When Crist and Granholm were shown side-by-side during last weeks reports on the delegations, he looked ready to party, she looked TIRED.
- - Fair, March 10, 2008
Democrat - friend of Bill, Hill, etc.
I have always admired him as a modern-day Elliot Ness - can't say I came up with that comparison on my own, either. It is so amazing how modern day - mostly, male - powerful politicians can be done in by their sex drive. The New York Post says the call girl ring in question is "diamond" studded, clients pay like $5,000 per hour and can pay $50,000 to be able to contact a girl directly - they are all high-class girls. Unbelievable.
- - Ing, March 10, 2008
Wow. "You know"... I've been wondering how many other politicians are worried about things like this.
I'm sure other media organizations across the country are FOIA-ing their elected officials publicly owned cell phone text message records and possible even e-mail messages. Mayor Kilpatrick can't be the only one - maybe not older officials not familiar with the "Internets," e-mail, and using text. but I'm sure others have hidden activities.
I haven't had a chance to look; is Spitzer a R or D?
- - Fair, March 10, 2008
I can not believe this!
>>> 3/10/2008 2:16PM >>>
-- New York Times reports Gov. Eliot Spitzer admits involvement in a prostitution ring.
- - Ing, March 10, 2008
I'm not sure when the mail-in primary would take place. I just hope I can vote. Whenever Mark Brewer is on about it, he says, if there is a do-over, only those who voted in the Democratic Primary would be able to vote. Now what is fair about that? We were all told by the media that voting in the Dem Primary was a waste and wouldn't count, so why not try to affect the Republican race? At least T. voted uncommitted in the Democratic Primary so he would be able to vote - but he has said categorically he will not go to a caucus!
I hope Obama can get back on his stride that Clinton knocked him off - he's got to, to prove he can take on the Republican smear machine swift boaters in the general.
- - Ing, March 10, 2008
I'm glad Obama won in WY; I'm sure he'll clean up in Mississippi too. Then the Clinton campaign, I imagine, will come back after Pennsylvania. Something needs to be done about the practical tie! I read that a Michigan re-vote is being considered during May's already scheduled elections. Any news on that?
- - Fair, March 10, 2008
It's okay for you to be non-negative toward Hillary ;-> I will definitely vote for her over McCain. Maybe if Obama isn't her Veep, he can at least give her some speaking lessons! She's not so bad in a smaller setting - her arena voice just sets my teeth on edge.
- - Ing, March 5, 2008
The good news is McCain was with Bush at the White House today - further proving that McCain is no longer a maverick but is instead just Bush: Part III. At least I hope that later becomes the spin.
Not sure, honestly, what to make of this basic 50/50 split of the Dem. race. I know this will drive you crazy but I'm still torn between the two so I have no feelings, yet, either way as long as they don't trash each other to the Republican's advantage. Most everything Hillary has thrown at Obama to date is stuff that McCain would have brought up anyway so I actually think it is good that it is now "yesterday's news."
About the rumored Dem. VP talk - I didn't hear or see a clip where Hillary hinted at that. Funny how some things simply seem to appear from within press circles.
- - Fair, March 5, 2008
I read comments to online newspaper articles all the time. For sure, you would provide much more articulate logic for your point of view than 99% of what I read. Hot head? Not you.
Of course, I was very disappointed in the election results last night, esp. Texas. It sounds as though with their weird primary-caucus combo, that Barak will get more Texas delegates while Hillary gets the popular vote. Black turn-out wasn't high enough, I guess, relative to the very high overall turn-out. Oh, well. I heard that she "hinted" about a ticket with both of them - although, who would have the top spot? I can't see her settling for VP and the idea of him being "subservient" to a white woman seems too old-time stereotypical . . .
- - Ing, March 5, 2008
The headline below makes me mad. I'm considering writing to the Free Press! What do you think? A hot head moment? From the Free Press:
"Mich. Senate considers bill changing parental consent for abortion
LANSING -- Republican lawmakers again are trying to pass a bill critics say would make to too difficult for girls to get an abortion without their parents’ consent..."
I am glad to see Senate Republicans in Michigan's legislature are dealing with the state's most pressing issues. I was not aware of the economy's sudden improvement and the positive movement in the housing market and domestic auto industry. Perhaps women should make decisions for Senate Republicans.
- - Fair, March 4, 2008
My bet is Hillary will win Ohio, Obama, Texas and the other two states (how horrible that I can't think of the "other two"). I do not think she will "suspend" her campaign unless Obama wins both Ohio and Texas and the others. I'm sure John McCain will be the winner from all of this dem. back and forth. I heard over the weekend that a newspaper in Texas, Dallas - maybe?, is endorsing Mike Huckabee.
The Kwame text scandal is the only thing being mentioned out here when Michigan is discussed. He, in my opinion, should resign - for the good of the city. I'm sure many other politicians have done worse, but they didn't get caught. Not that not getting caught makes anything right, but the poor press attention makes it worse - the last thing Detroit and Michigan need right now.
- - Fair, March 3, 2008
I don't think it is going to be a slam-dunk for Obama tomorrow. Unless the polls turn out to be wrong and he does come out significantly on top right away, I probably won't be able to watch the coverage. So, let's see - other topics - I'm sure you heard about the American Mayor's association pulling their convention out of Detroit to move to New Orleans. They SAID it wasn't because of Kwame, but what else could it be? He SAYS he will not resign, but will something happen to change his mind?
I just hit the Freep briefly today and saw that our Supremes declined the city's request to keep the docs confidential. That dep is something else! I just scanned it, but way wilder than any deposition I've ever heard of.
- - Ing, March 3, 2008
Kwame just has no honor, in the traditional sense. He just has his exaggerated sense of his own importance. So many in power these days, worldwide, seem to think that only they can save their city or their country, and so they cling to power no matter who calls for their peaceful departure.
- - Ing, March 25, 2008
The negative news about the Mayor is not good for Detroit or Michigan - I think he should have resigned weeks ago. People are discussing the Kwame Kilpatrick scandal out here.
- - Fair, March 25, 2008
It's pretty apparent that the Defense for Kwame is going to be that the text messages were obtained illegally or in some way get them thrown out as evidence, that the prosecution is selective, because the prosecutor's office has never charged anyone with perjury in a civil matter before . . . yes, theoretically it is possible that K. could be legally exonerated. But what about the court of public opinion? Since when is the legal definition of "not guilty" the only thing that defines integrity and morality? Everyone in the public knows that K. lied under oath, whether it holds up in court or not. What about high office public servants being held to a higher standard?
- - Ing, March 25, 2008
Hillary supporters could have assumed similar to what I was assuming. Since she was the only candidate that remained "committed to Michigan" - regardless of bureaucratic rules - she would end up winning the state and what fun it would be to play with the republican primary.
- - Fair, March 19, 2008
I don't know if it was in Gongwer or MIRS but a state rep. (D.) from Alpena said an estimated 100,000 voted in the Republican Primary but were really Democrats or Independents. And of course, these folks, if there were a do-over, would be more likely to vote for Obama. If they supported Hillary why not just have voted for her January 15th?
- - Ing, March 19, 2008
I didn't listen to The Speech. I did read about it, however. I voted absentee in the primary... for Mitt-ney :) I thought the dem. race would be a waste since Hillary was the only major candidate and I thought the primary would just be a set of motions for her campaign. How wrong I was...
- - Fair, March 19, 2008
So did you listen to The Speech?? I did not, but heard plenty of excerpts and commentary after the fact. I am so "in the tank" for Obama that I don't want to listen to or read anything critical of The Speech. After all, I'm white - how can I relate to the Black-church social gospel and commentary on being black in America? If the black commentators - any many white ones - mostly think he did a good, even great, job, that's good enough for me!
I can't remember - when you voted absentee ballot in the January 15 primary - you did vote, right? - did you vote the Democratic or the Republican ballot? Not that it will likely matter, as the report says - the do-over primary is probably quite unlikely at this point.
- - Ing, March 19, 2008
I guess I am following Kwame more on the back burner since there seem to be so many institutional delays in anything happening. Without knowing all the ins and outs, I'd like for him to resign. But he feels that he is indispensable to renewal and progress in Detroit - do you agree with that?
- - Ing, March 18, 2008
I've engaged myself to the extreme re: the Kwame scandal. The Dem. primary is sort of in the back of my mind - for now at least. Sounds like it is good the videos were exposed now - not so much to benefit Hillary, but to make it "old news" before the republicans attack. I actually, in my opinion, think it is good to have Hillary and Obama throw volleys at each other now - friendly fire I guess you could say - because the republicans will only be worse. When the republicans rehash it, hopefully, any material will be viewed as old news in this world of sound bytes and short attention spans.
- - Fair, March 18, 2008
Well, my candidate is in some trouble now with his Pastor's words out there on the "internets" and cable TV. Hopefully, best case scenario, it's good this came out now, instead of right before the Pennsylvania primary or even the general election, if Obama prevails that far. Yeah, I know these videos were actually out a year ago or so, but no one was paying real close attention.
- - Ing, March 18, 2008
I just watched this and he just seems like such a lawyer, such a prosecutor to me. I'm actually impressed with how much detail lawyers keep in their head in order to answer questions extemporaneously - and to make the answers into what they want to answer - yes, I'll give you that.
- - Ing, March 13, 2008
Take a look at www.WXYZ.com and click on the "Mike Cox Raw Interview" (at the right of the page under the video screen) link. Just watched; new to me - seems slippery.
- - Fair, March 13, 2008
I agree that the Clintons - perhaps they did not instigate Ms. Ferraro's remarks - but I definitely think they are playing them to the hilt! I don't know why her supporters think it is so wonderful to be so connivingand Machiavellian - I agree with those who now say she is playing all out only for herself, with no thought for the party, the future or anything. I still think her primary motivation is to one-up the vaunted political skills of her husband - this is still all payback for her "wronged wife" humiliation.I don't know about Cox - in many respects I totally disagree with him - on Kwame - he certainly may have the right idea! Cox is clearly running for 2010 Governor.
- - Ing, March 13, 2008
Forgot to mention - I think Ms. Ferraro looks sort of like Leona Helmsly - that Italian manly-for-a-woman look. Just an observation.
- - Fair, March 13, 2008
Heard about the latest little brouhaha in the campaign? Geraldine Ferraro - VP candidate in 1984 (let's see - you were a toddler then?) saying that Obama is only where he is and lucky to be where he isbecause he's black. When Obama's campaign responded that that was unfortunate as racial, Geraldine accussed Obama of playing the race card! She has resigned as a Clinton fund raiser, but she can't stopspouting off.
- - Ing, March 13, 2008
I know you don't know much about Spitzer - don't know if you're following that at all, but his case is SO ironic. He was caught by massive software programs that do data-mining of ALL wire/online money transfers. The software looks for certain patterns and flags things. He was flagged before anyone knew anything about high-priced hookers. AND - when he was NY AG, he INSISTED NY banks have and use this software!
- - Ing, March 12, 2008
I did see that. I watched a clip of a press conference from Channel 7 on WXYZ.com. We'll just have to wait out the two weeks. Meantime, the NY state gov. resigned after something that broke, what, maybe two/three DAYS ago...
- - Fair, March 12, 2008
Did you see where Ms. Worthy says it will be two more weeks before she can say if there will be charges filed against the Mayor? The comments at the online papers don't think this is a good sign for "justice."
- - Ing, March 12, 2008
I listened to the address live from the WJLB-FM website. I thought it interesting that WJLB broadcast the Mayor's speech - WJLB is the Detroit markets leading hip-hop station, not a news/talk station.I heard the accusations and think they were ridiculous. An article in today's Freep or News hit it right, referencing last year's speech where Kilpatrick said Detroiters need to take responsibility for themselves.He even took what I thought was a swipe at Granholm, mentioning at first how there is no urban agenda in Washington from the current administration (we can't count on Washington), but also how there is alack of urban leadership in Lansing (we can't count on Lansing).
- - Fair, March 12, 2008
Did you hear about Kwame's angry accusations at the Detroit media last night? It made the national TV news in various outlets and NPR.
- - Ing, March 12, 2008
Crist is a good looking man of a certain age, I agree ;->
- - Ing, March 10, 2008
I'm not that familiar with Spitzer, but I would have guessed that bronzed, beach-going FLA gov. before Spitzer. When Crist and Granholm were shown side-by-side during last weeks reports on the delegations, he looked ready to party, she looked TIRED.
- - Fair, March 10, 2008
Democrat - friend of Bill, Hill, etc.
I have always admired him as a modern-day Elliot Ness - can't say I came up with that comparison on my own, either. It is so amazing how modern day - mostly, male - powerful politicians can be done in by their sex drive. The New York Post says the call girl ring in question is "diamond" studded, clients pay like $5,000 per hour and can pay $50,000 to be able to contact a girl directly - they are all high-class girls. Unbelievable.
- - Ing, March 10, 2008
Wow. "You know"... I've been wondering how many other politicians are worried about things like this.
I'm sure other media organizations across the country are FOIA-ing their elected officials publicly owned cell phone text message records and possible even e-mail messages. Mayor Kilpatrick can't be the only one - maybe not older officials not familiar with the "Internets," e-mail, and using text. but I'm sure others have hidden activities.
I haven't had a chance to look; is Spitzer a R or D?
- - Fair, March 10, 2008
I can not believe this!
>>>
-- New York Times reports Gov. Eliot Spitzer admits involvement in a prostitution ring.
- - Ing, March 10, 2008
I'm not sure when the mail-in primary would take place. I just hope I can vote. Whenever Mark Brewer is on about it, he says, if there is a do-over, only those who voted in the Democratic Primary would be able to vote. Now what is fair about that? We were all told by the media that voting in the Dem Primary was a waste and wouldn't count, so why not try to affect the Republican race? At least T. voted uncommitted in the Democratic Primary so he would be able to vote - but he has said categorically he will not go to a caucus!
I hope Obama can get back on his stride that Clinton knocked him off - he's got to, to prove he can take on the Republican smear machine swift boaters in the general.
- - Ing, March 10, 2008
I'm glad Obama won in WY; I'm sure he'll clean up in Mississippi too. Then the Clinton campaign, I imagine, will come back after Pennsylvania. Something needs to be done about the practical tie! I read that a Michigan re-vote is being considered during May's already scheduled elections. Any news on that?
- - Fair, March 10, 2008
It's okay for you to be non-negative toward Hillary ;-> I will definitely vote for her over McCain. Maybe if Obama isn't her Veep, he can at least give her some speaking lessons! She's not so bad in a smaller setting - her arena voice just sets my teeth on edge.
- - Ing, March 5, 2008
The good news is McCain was with Bush at the White House today - further proving that McCain is no longer a maverick but is instead just Bush: Part III. At least I hope that later becomes the spin.
Not sure, honestly, what to make of this basic 50/50 split of the Dem. race. I know this will drive you crazy but I'm still torn between the two so I have no feelings, yet, either way as long as they don't trash each other to the Republican's advantage. Most everything Hillary has thrown at Obama to date is stuff that McCain would have brought up anyway so I actually think it is good that it is now "yesterday's news."
About the rumored Dem. VP talk - I didn't hear or see a clip where Hillary hinted at that. Funny how some things simply seem to appear from within press circles.
- - Fair, March 5, 2008
I read comments to online newspaper articles all the time. For sure, you would provide much more articulate logic for your point of view than 99% of what I read. Hot head? Not you.
Of course, I was very disappointed in the election results last night, esp. Texas. It sounds as though with their weird primary-caucus combo, that Barak will get more Texas delegates while Hillary gets the popular vote. Black turn-out wasn't high enough, I guess, relative to the very high overall turn-out. Oh, well. I heard that she "hinted" about a ticket with both of them - although, who would have the top spot? I can't see her settling for VP and the idea of him being "subservient" to a white woman seems too old-time stereotypical . . .
- - Ing, March 5, 2008
The headline below makes me mad. I'm considering writing to the Free Press! What do you think? A hot head moment? From the Free Press:
"Mich. Senate considers bill changing parental consent for abortion
LANSING -- Republican lawmakers again are trying to pass a bill critics say would make to too difficult for girls to get an abortion without their parents’ consent..."
I am glad to see Senate Republicans in Michigan's legislature are dealing with the state's most pressing issues. I was not aware of the economy's sudden improvement and the positive movement in the housing market and domestic auto industry. Perhaps women should make decisions for Senate Republicans.
- - Fair, March 4, 2008
My bet is Hillary will win Ohio, Obama, Texas and the other two states (how horrible that I can't think of the "other two"). I do not think she will "suspend" her campaign unless Obama wins both Ohio and Texas and the others. I'm sure John McCain will be the winner from all of this dem. back and forth. I heard over the weekend that a newspaper in Texas, Dallas - maybe?, is endorsing Mike Huckabee.
The Kwame text scandal is the only thing being mentioned out here when Michigan is discussed. He, in my opinion, should resign - for the good of the city. I'm sure many other politicians have done worse, but they didn't get caught. Not that not getting caught makes anything right, but the poor press attention makes it worse - the last thing Detroit and Michigan need right now.
- - Fair, March 3, 2008
I don't think it is going to be a slam-dunk for Obama tomorrow. Unless the polls turn out to be wrong and he does come out significantly on top right away, I probably won't be able to watch the coverage. So, let's see - other topics - I'm sure you heard about the American Mayor's association pulling their convention out of Detroit to move to New Orleans. They SAID it wasn't because of Kwame, but what else could it be? He SAYS he will not resign, but will something happen to change his mind?
I just hit the Freep briefly today and saw that our Supremes declined the city's request to keep the docs confidential. That dep is something else! I just scanned it, but way wilder than any deposition I've ever heard of.
- - Ing, March 3, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
This is the first post by Ing. Ing is half of a pair in a discussion, mostly about politics, mostly about the 2008 Presidential Campaign. The other half of the pair is Fair. Our names and the name of this blog refer to our geography - one of us in Michigan, the other in Washington, D.C., with strong ties to Michigan.
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