Democratic Victory in 2008

McCain's Health Care Plan is dangerous.

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 13:06:49 GMT

Many people who support McCain at this point do not realize or do not care that McCain's health care plan is disastrous to say the least. Some of these people can afford the private Health Care so they wouldn't care. Some think they're healthy enough not to care about it. And some are just voting against their best interest due to their political or societal (or, perhaps, racial) beliefs.

Here's a pretty good New York Times article about why McCain's plan is so dangerous by Paul Krugman. I am going to post some excerpts from it but i suggest everyone reads it in its entirety. it's not very long.

Mr. McCain, on the other hand, wants to blow up the current system, by eliminating the tax break for employer-provided insurance. And he doesn’t offer a workable alternative.

Without the tax break, many employers would drop their current health plans. Several recent nonpartisan studies estimate that under the McCain plan around 20 million Americans currently covered by their employers would lose their health insurance.

As compensation, the McCain plan would give people a tax credit — $2,500 for an individual, $5,000 for a family — that could be used to buy health insurance in the individual market. At the same time, Mr. McCain would deregulate insurance, leaving insurance companies free to deny coverage to those with health problems — and his proposal for a “high-risk pool” for hard cases would provide little help.

- and -

the people gaining insurance would be those who need it least: relatively healthy Americans with high incomes. Why? Because insurance companies want to cover only healthy people, and even among the healthy only those able to pay a lot in addition to their tax credit would be able to afford coverage (remember, it’s a $5,000 credit, but the average family policy actually costs more than $12,000).

Meanwhile, the people losing insurance would be those who need it most: lower-income workers who wouldn’t be able to afford individual insurance even with the tax credit, and Americans with health problems whom insurance companies won’t cover.

And in the process of comforting the comfortable while afflicting the afflicted, the McCain plan would also lead to a huge, expensive increase in bureaucracy: insurers selling individual health plans spend 29 percent of the premiums they receive on administration, largely because they employ so many people to screen applicants. This compares with costs of 12 percent for group plans and just 3 percent for Medicare.

As you can see, McCain's plan favors those who can afford private insurance and eviscerates those who need it the most - those who have health problems or can not afford health care on their own.

Also, it is a wonderful illustration to show how much we're paying for the administrative expenses all the private insurers incur. And what this article does not address is the advertisement costs and the redundant data processing costs for these companies that ultimately come out of our pockets. When was the last time time you saw advertisement for Medicare? :) And you can rest assured, they have a single (and very powerful) computer system that maintains every doctor and every patient no matter where the patients or doctors are located...

Now to a more pleasant subject - the polls. over the last week Obama's lead seemed to have cemented. More people are realizing the danger to the economy McCain presidentcy (aka Bush Third term) presents. Also, what disturbs people even more is the buttom half of that ticket. Despite GOP putting on a brave face and deceiving themselves about Sarah Palin's "performance" at the Veep debate, it was clear that Biden had easily won the debate. He seemed to have first-hand knowledge of the facts, control of the issues and refused to get down and dirty with his opponent. Palin had actually refused to answer several questions and most people see through that "rural charm" and "folksy" attitude.

So, now, the polls are looking more and more to be "predicting" (if that term can be so used) Obama's victory next month. RealClearPolitics.com average value is Obama +5.9%. His current lead in Electoral College Predictions is from 101 to 168 electoral votes.

it is harder and harder for GOP supporters to find solace and that is making me feeling that much better :)

One hand knows not what the other does?

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:25:17 GMT

Guess what, according to their Party Platform, Republicans oppose, on the principle, government's bailouts of private companies.

We do not support government bailouts of private institutions. Government interference in the markets exacerbates problems in the marketplace and causes the free market to take longer to correct itself. We believe in the free market as the best tool to sustained prosperity and opportunity for all.

How do you like them apples? Not only was McCain against the bailouts before he was for it, he is in decided contrast with his own party's platform. Of course, Republican base will still vote for their candidate no matter what. But it is just interesting to note people's total lack of principle.

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 15:23:29 GMT

McCain's latest ad, aside from the misleading and outrageous lipstick ad, is about Barack Obama and sex education.

Quote:

A McCain campaign ad claims Obama's "one accomplishment" was a bill to teach sex ed to kindergarten kids. Don't believe it.

Summary
A McCain-Palin campaign ad claims Obama's "one accomplishment" in the area of education was "legislation to teach 'comprehensive sex education' to kindergarteners." But the claim is simply false, and it dates back to Alan Keyes' failed race against Obama for an open Senate seat in 2004.

Obama, contrary to the ad's insinuation, does not support explicit sex education for kindergarteners. And the bill, which would have allowed only "age appropriate" material and a no-questions-asked opt-out policy for parents, was not his accomplishment to claim in any case, since he was not even a cosponsor – and the bill never left the state Senate.

In addition, the ad quotes unflattering assessments of the Illinois senator's record on education but leaves out sometimes equally harsh criticism directed at McCain in the same forums.

Source: http://www.factcheck.org/elections-2...on_sex_ed.html

My understanding is the bill was meant to protect children against sexual predators and inform them of 'sex' to the point where they would know if they were being abused. The bill also included ways for parents to opt their children out of this curriculum.

But the bill never made it into law and Obama wasn't even a cosponsor of the bill.

Does the McCain camp, in-light of the fabricated lipstick controversy, think they can continue to get away with outright lies? Not only are they doing it in their ads, but they're also doing it in their stump speeches.

I know Obama and Biden aren't always 100% truthful either. But many people get the feeling the McCain camp is truly taking it to a level the Obama camp has not taken it. But that's a matter of personal opinion.

What do you think about this ad? Dishonest? Smart?

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

The other latest ad by McCain uses Factcheck.org as saying the Obama campaign is "misleading" and made claims which were "absolutely false".

Factcheck says they said that, but not about the Obama campaign, but about an e-mail regarding Palin that is not connected to the Obama campaign.

They also said the group of people Obama sent to Alaska isn't for 'dirt', necessarily. The Obama camp denies sending anyone. Furthermore, all politicians take part in opposition research. It would be dumb to do otherwise.

Source: http://www.factcheck.org/elections-2...r_finding.html

What is with all these crazy ads, McCain?

You use Factcheck to your advantage, but then misrepresent THEIR words!?!?

Sun, 07 Sep 2008 13:11:11 GMT

Some will say this is a smear, but it seems like an honest opinion to me.

This is a letter on Sarah Palin, written by a resident of Wasilla, Alaska named Anne Kilkenny.

Verified at: http://www.snopes.com/politics/soapbox/kilkenny.asp

Quote:

What follows is an open letter written by a resident of Wasilla, Alaska named Anne Kilkenny.

I am a resident of Wasilla, Alaska. I have known Sarah since 1992. Everyone here knows Sarah, so it is nothing special to say we are on a first-name basis. Our children have attended the same schools. Her father was my child’s favorite substitute teacher. I also am on a first name basis with her parents and mother-in-law. I attended more City Council meetings during her administration than about 99% of the residents of the city.

She is enormously popular; in every way she’s like the most popular girl in middle school. Even men who think she is a poor choice and won’t vote for her can’t quit smiling when talking about her because she is a “babe”.

It is astonishing and almost scary how well she can keep a secret. She kept her most recent pregnancy a secret from her children and parents for seven months. She is “pro-life”. She recently gave birth to a Down’s syndrome baby. There is no cover-up involved, here; Trig is her baby. She is energetic and hardworking. She regularly worked out at the gym.

She is savvy. She doesn’t take positions; she just “puts things out there” and if they prove to be popular, then she takes credit. Her husband works a union job on the North Slope for BP and is a champion snowmobile racer. Todd Palin’s kind of job is highly sought-after because of the schedule and high pay. He arranges his work schedule so he can fish for salmon in Bristol Bay for a month or so in summer, but by no stretch of the imagination is fishing their major source of income. Nor has her life-style ever been anything like that of native Alaskans. Sarah and her whole family are avid hunters. She’s smart.

Her experience is as mayor of a city with a population of about 5,000 (at the time), and less than 2 years as governor of a state with about 670,000 residents.During her mayoral administration most of the actual work of running this small city was turned over to an administrator. She had been pushed to hire this administrator by party power-brokers after she had gotten herself into some trouble over precipitous firings which had given rise to a recall campaign.

Sarah campaigned in Wasilla as a “fiscal conservative”. During her 6 years as Mayor, she increased general government expenditures by over 33%.During those same 6 years the amount of taxes collected by the City increased by 38%. This was during a period of low inflation (1996-2002). She reduced progressive property taxes and increased a regressive sales tax which taxed even food. The tax cuts that she promoted benefited large corporate property owners way more than they benefited residents.

The huge increases in tax revenues during her mayoral administration weren’t enough to fund everything on her wish list though, borrowed money was needed, too. She inherited a city with zero debt, but left it with indebtedness of over $22 million. What did Mayor Palin encourage the voters to borrow money for? Was it the infrastructure that she said she supported? The sewage treatment plant that the city lacked? or a new library? No. $1m for a park.$15m-plus for construction of a multi-use sports complex which she rushed through to build on a piece of property that the City didn’t even have clear title to, that was still in litigation 7 yrs later–to the delight of the lawyers involved! The sports complex itself is a nice addition to the community but a huge money pit, not the profit-generator she claimed it would be. She also supported bonds for $5.5m for road projects that could have been done in 5-7 yrs without any borrowing.

While Mayor, City Hall was extensively remodeled and her office redecorated more than once. These are small numbers, but Wasilla is a very small city. As an oil producer, the high price of oil has created a budget surplus in Alaska. Rather than invest this surplus in technology that will make us energy independent and increase efficiency, as Governor she proposed distribution of this surplus to every individual in the state.

In this time of record state revenues and budget surpluses, she recommended that the state borrow/bond for road projects, even while she proposed distribution of surplus state revenues: spend today’s surplus, borrow for needs.

She’s not very tolerant of divergent opinions or open to outside ideasor compromise. As Mayor, she fought ideas that weren’t generated by her or her staff. Ideas weren’t evaluated on their merits, but on the basis of who proposed them.

While Sarah was Mayor of Wasilla she tried to fire our highly respected City Librarian because the Librarian refused to consider removing from the library some books that Sarah wanted removed. City residents rallied to the defense of the City Librarian and against Palin’s attempt at out-and-out censorship, so Palin backed down and withdrew her termination letter. People who fought her attempt to oust the Librarian are on her enemies list to this day.

Sarah complained about the “old boy’s club” when she first ran for Mayor, so what did she bring Wasilla? A new set of “old boys”. Palin fired most of the experienced staff she inherited. At the City and as Governor she hired or elevated new, inexperienced, obscure people, creating a staff totally dependent on her for their jobs and eternally grateful and fiercely loyal–loyal to the point of abusing their power to further her personal agenda, as she has acknowledged happened in the case of pressuring the State’s top cop (see below).

As Mayor, Sarah fired Wasilla’s Police Chief because he “intimidated” her, she told the press. As Governor, her recent firing of Alaska’s top cop has the ring of familiarity about it. He served at her pleasure and she had every legal right to fire him, but it’s pretty clear that an important factor in her decision to fire him was because he wouldn’t fire her sister’s ex-husband, a State Trooper. Under investigation for abuse of power, she has had to admit that more than 2 dozen contacts were made between her staff and family to the person that she later fired, pressuring him to fire her ex-brother-in-law. She tried to replace the man she fired with a man who she knew had been reprimanded for sexual harassment; when this caused a public furor, she withdrew her support.

She has bitten the hand of every person who extended theirs to her in help. The City Council person who personally escorted her around town introducing her to voters when she first ran for Wasilla City Council became one of her first targets when she was later elected Mayor. She abruptly fired her loyal City Administrator; even people who didn’t like the guy were stunned by this ruthlessness.

Fear of retribution has kept all of these people from saying anything publicly about her.

When then-Governor Murkowski was handing out political plums, Sarah got the best, Chair of the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission: one of the few jobs not in Juneau and one of the best paid. She had no background in oil & gas issues. Within months of scoring this great job which paid $122,400/yr, she was complaining in the press about the high salary. I was told that she hated that job: the commute, the structured hours, the work. Sarah became aware that a member of this Commission (who was also the State Chair of the Republican Party) engaged in unethical behavior on the job.

In a gutsy move which some undoubtedly cautioned her could be political suicide, Sarah solved all her problems in one fell swoop: got out of the job she hated and garnered gobs of media attention as the patron saint of ethics and as a gutsy fighter against the “old boys’ club” when she dramatically quit, exposing this man’s ethics violations (for which he was fined).

As Mayor, she had her hand stuck out as far as anyone for pork from Senator Ted Stevens. Lately, she has castigated his pork-barrel politics and publicly humiliated him. She only opposed the “bridge to nowhere” after it became clear that it would be unwise not to.

As Governor, she gave the Legislature no direction and budget guidelines, then made a big grandstand display of line-item vetoing projects, calling them pork. Public outcry and further legislative action restored most of these projects–which had been vetoed simply because she was not aware of their importance–but with the unobservant she had gained a reputation as “anti-pork”.

She is solidly Republican: no political maverick. The State party leaders hate her because she has bit them in the back and humiliated them. Other members of the party object to her self-description as a fiscal conservative.

Around Wasilla there are people who went to high school with Sarah.

They call her “Sarah Barracuda” because of her unbridled ambition and predatory ruthlessness. Before she became so powerful, very ugly stories circulated around town about shenanigans she pulled to be made point guard on the high school basketball team. When Sarah’s mother-in-law, a highly respected member of the community and experienced manager, ran for Mayor, Sarah refused to endorse her.

As Governor, she stepped outside of the box and put together of package of legislation known as “AGIA” that forced the oil companies to march to the beat of her drum.

Like most Alaskans, she favors drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. She has questioned if the loss of sea ice is linked toglobal warming. She campaigned “as a private citizen” against a state initiaitive that would have either a) protected salmon streams from pollution from mines, or b) tied up in the courts all mining in the state (depending on who you listen to). She has pushed the State’s lawsuit against the Dept. of the Interior’s decision to list polar bears as threatened species.

McCain is the oldest person to ever run for President; Sarah will be a heartbeat away from being President. There has to be literally millions of Americans who are more knowledgeable and experienced than she. However, there’s a lot of people who have underestimated her and are regretting it.

CLAIM VS FACT

•“Hockey mom”: true for a few years
•“PTA mom”: true years ago when her first-born was in elementary school, not since
•“NRA supporter”: absolutely true
•social conservative: mixed. Opposes gay marriage, BUT vetoed a bill that would have denied benefits to employees in same-sex relationships (said she did this because it was unconsitutional).
•pro-creationism: mixed. Supports it, BUT did nothing as Governor to promote it.
•“Pro-life”: mixed. Knowingly gave birth to a Down’s syndrome baby BUT declined to call a special legislative session on some pro-life legislation
•“Experienced”: Some high schools have more students than Wasilla has residents. Many cities have more residents than the state of Alaska. No legislative experience other than City Council. Little hands-on supervisory or managerial experience; needed help of a city administrator to run town of about 5,000.
•political maverick: not at all
•gutsy: absolutely!
•open & transparent: ??? Good at keeping secrets. Not good at explaining actions.
•has a developed philosophy of public policy: no
•”a Greenie”: no. Turned Wasilla into a wasteland of big box stores and disconnected parking lots. Is pro-drilling off-shore and in ANWR.
•fiscal conservative: not by my definition!
•pro-infrastructure: No. Promoted a sports complex and park in a city without a sewage treatment plant or storm drainage system. Built streets to early 20th century standards.
•pro-tax relief: Lowered taxes for businesses, increased tax burden on residents
•pro-small government: No. Oversaw greatest expansion of city government in Wasilla’s history.
•pro-labor/pro-union. No. Just because her husband works union doesn’t make her pro-labor. I have seen nothing to support any claim that she is pro-labor/pro-union.

WHY AM I WRITING THIS?

First, I have long believed in the importance of being an informed voter. I am a voter registrar. For 10 years I put on student voting programs in the schools. If you google my name (Anne Kilkenny + Alaska), you will find references to my participation in local government, education, and PTA/parent organizations.

Secondly, I’ve always operated in the belief that “Bad things happen when good people stay silent”. Few people know as much as I do because few have gone to as many City Council meetings.

Third, I am just a housewife. I don’t have a job she can bump me out of. I don’t belong to any organization that she can hurt. But, I am no fool; she is immensely popular here, and it is likely that this will cost me somehow in the future: that’s life.

Fourth, she has hated me since back in 1996, when I was one of the 100 or so people who rallied to support the City Librarian against Sarah’s attempt at censorship.

Fifth, I looked around and realized that everybody else was afraid to say anything because they were somehow vulnerable.

CAVEATS

I am not a statistician. I developed the numbers for the increase in spending & taxation 2 years ago (when Palin was running for Governor) from information supplied to me by the Finance Director of the City of Wasilla, and I can’t recall exactly what I adjusted for: did I adjust for inflation? for population increases? Right now, it is impossible for a private person to get any info out of City Hall–they are swamped. So I can’t verify my numbers.

You may have noticed that there are various numbers circulating for the population of Wasilla, ranging from my “about 5,000″, up to 9,000. The day Palin’s selection was announced a city official told me that the current population is about 7,000. The official 2000 census count was 5,460. I have used about 5,000 because Palin was Mayor from 1996 to 2002, and the city was growing rapidly in the mid-90’s.

Great information. Needs to be forwarded everywhere.

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 23:48:36 GMT

The Republican Convention is over.

The Republicans spent the last 3 days degrading, belittling and mocking the accomplishments of Senator Obama. They offered no ways to fix health care, create jobs, improve education or do anything but continue the failed policies of the last 8 years. Oh wait -- I forgot! They offered us a position on oil, "Drill Baby Drill". How thoughtful.

When they weren't mocking Obama with a sarcastic tongue --which reminds me of the Bush smear tactics-- they inspired fear. They told us the Republicans are the party who loves the USA and that the Democrats will not keep us safe. Which message do you prefer, hope or fear? I'll go with hope for a change.

They continued to lie about Senator Obama's record. They said he has no 'real accomplishments'. Here are a few:
1. Obama helped reform the death penalty in Illinois 2. Obama helped pass bipartisan legislation in Illinois that gave health care coverage to 154,000 citizens, 70,000 of which were children 3. Through bipartisan efforts Obama helped pass the Earned Income Tax Credit, giving over 100 million in tax-cuts to families across Illinois 4. Being a member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Obama fought to help Illinois veterans receive disability pay 5. Obama played a critical role in passing the strongest Ethics legislation that has emerged from the US Congress.

They also said Obama will raise taxes, when in reality he would cut taxes for over 90% of Americans. Do Republicans love to lie?

The Republicans praised John McCain for being a maverick, putting his country first, having experience and being a solider. Well I've got news for you, America needs more than a solider. Furthermore, if he was a 'maverick' why did he pick a vice presidential candidate that rallies to the Republican base? If he puts his country first, why did he pick an inexperienced vice presidential candidate, who could potentially become President considering McCain's history of cancer and age? I'll tell you why: McCain picked who he thought would win him votes, not what would be best for our country.

Granted, McCain does have experience -- voting with George Bush 90% of the time. Experience doesn't count if it's on the wrong side of the issues.

Instead of experience, let's focus on judgement. Obama had the good judgement to oppose the Iraq War from the beginning, to push for a withdrawal of our troops (which is now, finally, echoed by the Bush Administration) and by his insistence to focus on Afghanistan, where the true threats to our nation reside. The only good judgment McCain has is on the troop surge. But that issue would not have been an issue if Obama had been commander-in-chief and not gone to Iraq in the first place. Good judgement from our commander-in-chief, from day one, is what we need for our country and that is exactly what Obama offers and McCain doesn't.

Now lets get to 20-month Governor, Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin who has even less experience than Barack Obama and Joe Biden. She preaches family values and abstinence-only education, but has a pregnant daughter. She slashed funding by more than 50% for special needs children in Alaska, but says those with special needs will have a friend in the White House. She left the town she was mayor 20 million dollars in debt. She is against abortion (ie: against women) and is under investigation for abuse of power. Yet she has the audacity to belittle and mock Obama being a community organizer early in his life. She's a sarcastic, condescending, belittling, joke. Simple as that.

Republicans can blame the media for 'unfair' treatment of Sarah Pailn, but that's a scapegoat. The media is just doing their job. Republicans, including Sarah Palin, told Hillary Clinton to stop "whining" about the media being "sexist". They said if she can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen. I guess they want it both ways!

The bottom line is, you have solutions or smears. You have hope or fear. You have more of the same or change.

Obama-Biden '08!

PS: If you think this is any good you have my permission to send it around or post it anywhere you'd like!

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 22:00:38 GMT

I found this on a Daily Kos blog and it made me smile. I added a few things to it.

After watching the malicious speeches last night mocking Senator Obama, and by proxy, cynically attacking all of us who support our local communities, I thought it would be prudent to educate the Republican Party on the historical role of community organizers. For a quick reminder, let's recap Giuliani's snark:

"He worked as a community organizer. (Laughter) What?...Barack Obama has never led anything, nothing, nada."

And Palin's vacuous follow-up:

"This world of threats and dangers, it's not just a community and it doesn't just need an organizer. (Laughter.)"

That these bastions of the GOP would denigrate the importance of community organizers on the same night their party nominates its first female vice presidential candidate shows an utter disrespect for the people of this country and a laughable ignorance of the power we wield. This is what community organizers do...

They change the world. Block by block, city by city, state by state, nation by nation...

So, GOP, meet community organizer Susan B. Anthony. She helped guarantee women's suffrage in the United States by giving public speeches and uniting with fellow advocates of change.

Meet community organizer Martin Luther King Jr. He helped end racial segregation and discrimination by inspiring a nation to come together and realize their dreams.

He said, "Power at its best is love implementing the demands of justice. Justice at its best is love correcting everything that stands against love."

Meet community organizer Cesar Chavez. He helped farm workers secure labor rights and fair wages. Sen. Robert F. Kennedy called him "one of the heroic figures of our time."

Meet community organizer Dorothy Day. She helped found the Catholic Worker movement to help the poor and homeless, and promote social justice.

Meet community organizer Jane Jacobs. She helped rebuild and revitalize city neighborhoods and made people consider the wide-ranging benefits of supporting our urban cultures.

Meet community organizer Mohandas Gandhi. He peacefully led the people of India in efforts to acquire labor fairness, women's rights, and ethnic tolerance, and he helped secure the freedom of a nation.

Then there's this guy. Meet community organizer Jesus of Nazareth. He advocated for the poor, for the sick, for the socially excluded...and continues to help provide people solace during their "quiet storms." His community helped found the religion known as Christianity. He said "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

When you disparage community organizers, Republicans, you evince a complete ignorance of the fact that organizers do more with their words than just speak them. They remind people of their shared humanity, of their responsibilities, and of their power as a unified force to face injustice, and oppression, and inspire them to be the change they've been waiting for.

Meet community organizers part of the Obama Fellows program. They are not just working for the campaign, but these students and recent graduates (over 1,000 now) became a part of a new generation of leadership that believes, like Senator Obama, that real change comes from the ground up. Fellows have been trained on the basics of organizing & campaign fundamentals and then placed in a community to carry out grassroots activities with both religious and community organizations. The group was formed prior to Obama winning the democratic nomination and fellows signed up to work throughout the summer and upcoming year even if Obama did not become the democratic nominee.

Meet new community organizer, Senator Hillary Clinton. She cracked a glass ceiling, and inspired 18 million Americans to recognize the worth of their lives.

This is the story of America. Of women and men who defy the odds and never give up. How do we give this country back to them? By following the example of a brave New Yorker, a woman who risked her life to shepherd slaves along the Underground Railroad. And on that path to freedom, Harriet Tubman had one piece of advice.
If you hear the dogs, keep going.
If you see the torches in the woods, keep going.
If they're shouting after you, keep going.
Don't ever stop. Keep going.
If you want a taste of freedom, keep going.
Even in the darkest of moments, ordinary Americans have found the faith to keep going. I've seen it in you. I've seen it in our teachers and firefighters, nurses and police officers, small business owners and union workers, the men and women of our military -- you always keep going.

And meet community organizer Senator Barack Obama. He worked with congregations and registered voters on the South side of Chicago to help them improve their neighborhoods and hold politicians accountable for their actions. Along with Senator Joe Biden, he currently leads the largest movement for change in the history of American politics.

If you're walking down the right path and you're willing to keep walking, eventually you'll make progress.

So you see, Republicans, it's never really about the organizer, it's about the community...

please visit http://www.mybarackobama.com and join us today, you can help out from home even if you just have 30 minutes a week. Join us and take a leading role in changing YOUR community and our incredible country today.

After watching the malicious speeches last night mocking Senator Obama, and by proxy, cynically attacking all of us who support our local communities, I thought it would be prudent to educate the Republican Party on the historical role of community organizers. For a quick reminder, let's recap Giuliani's snark:

"He worked as a community organizer. (Laughter) What?...Barack Obama has never led anything, nothing, nada."

And Palin's vacuous follow-up:

"This world of threats and dangers, it's not just a community and it doesn't just need an organizer. (Laughter.)"

That these bastions of the GOP would denigrate the importance of community organizers on the same night their party nominates its first female vice presidential candidate shows an utter disrespect for the people of this country and a laughable ignorance of the power we wield. This is what community organizers do...

They change the world. Block by block, city by city, state by state, nation by nation...

So, GOP, meet community organizer Susan B. Anthony. She helped guarantee women's suffrage in the United States by giving public speeches and uniting with fellow advocates of change.

Meet community organizer Martin Luther King Jr. He helped end racial segregation and discrimination by inspiring a nation to come together and realize their dreams.

He said, "Power at its best is love implementing the demands of justice. Justice at its best is love correcting everything that stands against love."

Meet community organizer Cesar Chavez. He helped farm workers secure labor rights and fair wages. Sen. Robert F. Kennedy called him "one of the heroic figures of our time."

Meet community organizer Dorothy Day. She helped found the Catholic Worker movement to help the poor and homeless, and promote social justice.

Meet community organizer Jane Jacobs. She helped rebuild and revitalize city neighborhoods and made people consider the wide-ranging benefits of supporting our urban cultures.

Meet community organizer Mohandas Gandhi. He peacefully led the people of India in efforts to acquire labor fairness, women's rights, and ethnic tolerance, and he helped secure the freedom of a nation.

Then there's this guy. Meet community organizer Jesus of Nazareth. He advocated for the poor, for the sick, for the socially excluded...and continues to help provide people solace during their "quiet storms." His community helped found the religion known as Christianity. He said "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

When you disparage community organizers, Republicans, you evince a complete ignorance of the fact that organizers do more with their words than just speak them. They remind people of their shared humanity, of their responsibilities, and of their power as a unified force to face injustice, and oppression, and inspire them to be the change they've been waiting for.

Meet community organizers part of the Obama Fellows program. They are not just working for the campaign, but these students and recent graduates (over 1,000 now) became a part of a new generation of leadership that believes, like Senator Obama, that real change comes from the ground up. Fellows have been trained on the basics of organizing & campaign fundamentals and then placed in a community to carry out grassroots activities with both religious and community organizations. The group was formed prior to Obama winning the democratic nomination and fellows signed up to work throughout the summer and upcoming year even if Obama did not become the democratic nominee.

Meet new community organizer, Senator Hillary Clinton. She cracked a glass ceiling, and inspired 18 million Americans to recognize the worth of their lives.

This is the story of America. Of women and men who defy the odds and never give up. How do we give this country back to them? By following the example of a brave New Yorker, a woman who risked her life to shepherd slaves along the Underground Railroad. And on that path to freedom, Harriet Tubman had one piece of advice.
If you hear the dogs, keep going.
If you see the torches in the woods, keep going.
If they're shouting after you, keep going.
Don't ever stop. Keep going.
If you want a taste of freedom, keep going.
Even in the darkest of moments, ordinary Americans have found the faith to keep going. I've seen it in you. I've seen it in our teachers and firefighters, nurses and police officers, small business owners and union workers, the men and women of our military -- you always keep going.

And meet community organizer Senator Barack Obama. He worked with congregations and registered voters on the South side of Chicago to help them improve their neighborhoods and hold politicians accountable for their actions. Along with Senator Joe Biden, he currently leads the largest movement for change in the history of American politics.

If you're walking down the right path and you're willing to keep walking, eventually you'll make progress.

So you see, Republicans, it's never really about the organizer, it's about the community...

Why would the Republicans spend a whole night of their convention attacking ordinary people?

With the nation watching, the Republicans mocked, dismissed, and actually laughed out loud at Americans who engage in community service and organizing.

Our convention was different. We gave the stage to everyday Americans who hunger for change and stepped up to make phone calls, knock on doors, and raise money in small amounts in their communities. You may have missed it, but we also showed the country a video with the faces and voices of those organizers, volunteers, and donors from every corner of the country.

please visit http://www.mybarackobama.com and join us today, you can help out from home even if you just have 30 minutes a week. Join us and take a leading role in changing YOUR community and our incredible country today.

Sarah Palin: The Beauty Queen Has Two Faces

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 21:11:40 GMT

Palin attempted to ban books at local library, threatened to fire dissenting librarian

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

Attacks, praise stretch truth at GOP convention

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin and her Republican supporters held back little Wednesday as they issued dismissive attacks on Barack Obama and flattering praise on her credentials to be vice president. In some cases, the reproach and the praise stretched the truth.

Some examples:

PALIN: "I have protected the taxpayers by vetoing wasteful spending ... and championed reform to end the abuses of earmark spending by Congress. I told the Congress 'thanks but no thanks' for that Bridge to Nowhere."

THE FACTS: As mayor of Wasilla, Palin hired a lobbyist and traveled to Washington annually to support earmarks for the town totaling $27 million. In her two years as governor, Alaska has requested nearly $750 million in special federal spending, by far the largest per-capita request in the nation. While Palin notes she rejected plans to build a $398 million bridge from Ketchikan to an island with 50 residents and an airport, that opposition came only after the plan was ridiculed nationally as a "bridge to nowhere."

PALIN: "There is much to like and admire about our opponent. But listening to him speak, it's easy to forget that this is a man who has authored two memoirs but not a single major law or reform — not even in the state senate."

THE FACTS:[Obama] has worked with Republicans to pass legislation that expanded efforts to intercept illegal shipments of weapons of mass destruction and to help destroy conventional weapons stockpiles. The legislation became law last year. To demean that accomplishment would be to also demean the work of Republican Sen. Richard Lugar of Indiana, a respected foreign policy voice in the Senate. In Illinois, he was the leader on two big, contentious measures in Illinois: studying racial profiling by police and requiring recordings of interrogations in potential death penalty cases. He also successfully co-sponsored major ethics reform legislation.

PALIN: "The Democratic nominee for president supports plans to raise income taxes, raise payroll taxes, raise investment income taxes, raise the death tax, raise business taxes, and increase the tax burden on the American people by hundreds of billions of dollars."

THE FACTS: The Tax Policy Center, a think tank run jointly by the Brookings Institution and the Urban Institute, concluded that Obama's plan would increase after-tax income for middle-income taxpayers by about 5 percent by 2012, or nearly $2,200 annually. McCain's plan, which cuts taxes across all income levels, would raise after tax-income for middle-income taxpayers by 3 percent, the center concluded.

Obama would provide $80 billion in tax breaks, mainly for poor workers and the elderly, including tripling the Earned Income Tax Credit for minimum-wage workers and higher credits for larger families.

He also would raise income taxes, capital gains and dividend taxes on the wealthiest. He would raise payroll taxes on taxpayers with incomes above $250,000, and he would raise corporate taxes. Small businesses that make more than $250,000 a year would see taxes rise.

Anne Kilkenny, Wasilla citizen and long-time acquaintance of Palin, speaks out

I am a resident of Wasilla, Alaska. I have known Sarah since 1992 . . .

Her experience is as mayor of a city with a population of about 5,000 (at the time), and less than 2 years as governor of a state with about 670,000 residents.

During her mayoral administration most of the actual work of running this small city was turned over to an administrator. She had been pushed to hire this administrator by party power-brokers after she had gotten herself into some trouble over precipitous firings which had given rise to a recall campaign.

Sarah campaigned in Wasilla as a “fiscal conservative”. During her 6 years as Mayor, she increased general government expenditures by over 33%. During those same 6 years the amount of taxes collected by the City increased by 38%. This was during a period of low inflation (1996-2002). She reduced progressive property taxes and increased a regressive sales tax which taxed even food. The tax cuts that she promoted benefited large corporate property owners way more than they benefited residents.

The huge increases in tax revenues during her mayoral administration weren’t enough to fund everything on her wish list though, borrowed money was needed, too. She inherited a city with zero debt, but left it with indebtedness of over $22 million. . .

I have long believed in the importance of being an informed voter. I am a voter registrar. For 10 years I put on student voting programs in the schools. If you google my name (Anne Kilkenny + Alaska), you will find references to my participation in local government, education, and PTA/parent organizations. . .

I looked around and realized that everybody else was afraid to say anything because they were somehow vulnerable.

thanks to dabroots, krypt_kycker, and cieldumort

Sarah Palin - an attack dog. Nothing more

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:58:35 GMT

After hearing Sarah Palin's speech, I thought to myself "This is not something America might like". This thinking has been vindicated by the CNN comments people had left to the article about Sarah Palin's performance at the RNC:

Justin

updated September 4, 2008 Listening to Palin's speech tonight, I cried. Not tears of joy, hope, or happiness. I cried because i am scared that her rhetoric will affect people's decisions about America's future. This speech was scarier than ...more
Listening to Palin's speech tonight, I cried. Not tears of joy, hope, or happiness. I cried because i am scared that her rhetoric will affect people's decisions about America's future. This speech was scarier than any movie, any war, and anything I can think of. If people believe this obvious pandering of ideologies, I pray we can get through these next four years. less

Geraldine

updated September 4, 2008 I have been watching this for days to determine how I should vote. Palin's speech has been the deciding factor for me. Aside from the issues, she has about as much experience as my next door neighbor. I can't belie ...more
I have been watching this for days to determine how I should vote. Palin's speech has been the deciding factor for me. Aside from the issues, she has about as much experience as my next door neighbor. I can't believe she has the nerve to ignore the obvious and come out as if she isn't a bit aware of the fact that hardly anyone knows who she is and she hasn't earned the standing to be attacking other's experience. The only thing that I have seen that is similar is George Bush's complete obliviousness to the public view. Maybe like him, she only watches FOX news. I was hoping McCain would be more in tune to the American people. His judgement is a serious question. less

Molly D

updated September 4, 2008 Wow, I'm extremely disappointed with Palin's speech. I was willing to give her a chance. despite the questions the press (rightly!) have been asking about her (being a complete unknown to most of us in the lower 48), ...more
Wow, I'm extremely disappointed with Palin's speech. I was willing to give her a chance. despite the questions the press (rightly!) have been asking about her (being a complete unknown to most of us in the lower 48), but she didn't say a single thing to dissuade my gut feeling - this person is a truly frightening choice for the control of the US nuclear arsenal. Bulldog my &%$#@ ***! Try COMPLETE AMATEUR!!! less

Myke

updated September 4, 2008 The GOP showed thier true colors tonight.

The Obama campaign has McCain all wrong. This isn't four more years of George W. Bush. This is worse.
The GOP showed thier true colors tonight.

The Obama campaign has McCain all wrong. This isn't four more years of George W. Bush. This is worse. less

Michelle

updated September 4, 2008 Very diappointing speech tonight from the Republican VP candidate. I CAN'T WAIT UNITL OBAMA GETS A CHANCE TO DEBATE WITH THE REBUBLIANS .
Very diappointing speech tonight from the Republican VP candidate. I CAN'T WAIT UNITL OBAMA GETS A CHANCE TO DEBATE WITH THE REBUBLIANS . less

Ex Republican

updated September 4, 2008 OH NO SHE DIDN'T!!!!!!!!!!!! I was going to vote for McCain until I watched and heard Palin's speech.....I cant believe her! I am in shock! She is so Nasty.......disrespectful.....and Rude. My Vote is for Obama All the way!
OH NO SHE DIDN'T!!!!!!!!!!!! I was going to vote for McCain until I watched and heard Palin's speech.....I cant believe her! I am in shock! She is so Nasty.......disrespectful.....and Rude. My Vote is for Obama All the way! less

Juan

updated September 4, 2008 Sarah Palin is the latest version of Harriet Myers. Wow, is she ever in-over-her-head. What was McSame thinking?
Sarah Palin is the latest version of Harriet Myers. Wow, is she ever in-over-her-head. What was McSame thinking? less

Bekabug

updated September 4, 2008 I thought the speech, my mistake, speeches tonight were extremely nasty. I keep thinking we all have to live in this country after this election. The Republicans showed themselves for who they really are tonight - Willing to tear down every shred of unity to be in power.
I thought the speech, my mistake, speeches tonight were extremely nasty. I keep thinking we all have to live in this country after this election. The Republicans showed themselves for who they really are tonight - Willing to tear down every shred of unity to be in power. less

Crisanto

updated September 4, 2008 Wow, when I looked into everyone's eyes today while they gave their speach all I could see were a buch of Educated and articulate LIES, DECEPTION & INSINCERITY. Come America, wh call ALL SEE THROUGH these people. They all look and speack so FAKE!
Wow, when I looked into everyone's eyes today while they gave their speach all I could see were a buch of Educated and articulate LIES, DECEPTION & INSINCERITY. Come America, wh call ALL SEE THROUGH these people. They all look and speack so FAKE! less

Joanne

updated September 4, 2008 She said it all.
Obama backers - KEEP YOUR CHANGE.
She said it all.
Obama backers - KEEP YOUR CHANGE. less

Adam

updated September 4, 2008 It was a great night for the Republicans. Only a blind optimist can still think that Obama is qualified as commander in chief. I guess Obama thinks his time as a "community organizer" may help.
It was a great night for the Republicans. Only a blind optimist can still think that Obama is qualified as commander in chief. I guess Obama thinks his time as a "community organizer" may help. less

Doug

updated September 4, 2008 Yep bout time someone who has had real life problems and has strong ties to small town America ran for office. Of course Demos are bashing her. She might expect some people to work for a living and not live off welfare. Also a gun owner...I love it.
Yep bout time someone who has had real life problems and has strong ties to small town America ran for office. Of course Demos are bashing her. She might expect some people to work for a living and not live off welfare. Also a gun owner...I love it. less

shaun

updated September 4, 2008 after listening tonight...i dont think its the LEFT that is ANGRY!
after listening tonight...i dont think its the LEFT that is ANGRY! less

Pat

updated September 4, 2008 Sarah Palin makes Hillary Clinton look as meek as your grandmother. Palin can sling mud with the worst of them (she's the new Karl Rove). With Palin leading the charge, this campaign is going to be the nastiest ever. ...more
Sarah Palin makes Hillary Clinton look as meek as your grandmother. Palin can sling mud with the worst of them (she's the new Karl Rove). With Palin leading the charge, this campaign is going to be the nastiest ever.

How very, very sad that the GOP continues to appeal to the fears and prejudices of the American people. I pray we are a better nation than that. less

Jeff

updated September 4, 2008 Yikes. She definitely was not chosen to get women - she was chosen to attack Obama AND everything the democratic party stands for. God help our country if these people get up to our capitol. She's Coulter in a skirt. You read that right too.
Yikes. She definitely was not chosen to get women - she was chosen to attack Obama AND everything the democratic party stands for. God help our country if these people get up to our capitol. She's Coulter in a skirt. You read that right too. less

Chris

updated September 4, 2008 Disgusting speech filled with hatred. Where is your substance Palin?

The whole RNC has been nothing more than a bashing-fest and a poor attempt in trying to scare people into voting for their poor excuse ...more
Disgusting speech filled with hatred. Where is your substance Palin?

The whole RNC has been nothing more than a bashing-fest and a poor attempt in trying to scare people into voting for their poor excuse for a ticket. Where is the integrity?

As a Christian, I am disgusted by this level is bashing. less

Fran

updated September 4, 2008 She dished it out, I hope she can take it. And not use the woman card and cry about it. Obama campaign has not said anything about her, she started it now lets see if she can take it.
She dished it out, I hope she can take it. And not use the woman card and cry about it. Obama campaign has not said anything about her, she started it now lets see if she can take it. less

Todd

updated September 4, 2008 I have to admit, I missed her speech. But my wife has been saying she was excited to vote for a woman. However, she just walked into our den saying "ahhhh, she sounds a b***h, I can't do it." Not a good sign.
I have to admit, I missed her speech. But my wife has been saying she was excited to vote for a woman. However, she just walked into our den saying "ahhhh, she sounds a b***h, I can't do it." Not a good sign. less

Jim

updated September 4, 2008 Sorry GOP. As an independant voter I was not moved at all by Sarah Palin's Speech... actually, I was quite bored. The country is heading down a horrible path and Sarah Palin -- you said nothing to inspire me.
Sorry GOP. As an independant voter I was not moved at all by Sarah Palin's Speech... actually, I was quite bored. The country is heading down a horrible path and Sarah Palin -- you said nothing to inspire me. less

SK

updated September 4, 2008 So many negative attacks and such little substance. It is depressing to see this.
So many negative attacks and such little substance. It is depressing to see this. less

Blu

updated September 4, 2008 It was not much of a speech. It appears the Republicans are trying to run the 2004 election over again. It feels like the beginning of the end for them.
It was not much of a speech. It appears the Republicans are trying to run the 2004 election over again. It feels like the beginning of the end for them. less

SC

updated September 4, 2008 This was her coming out speech??? This is what she's been working on all week?? I still don't know who she is. All I've learned is that she is great at delivering one liners written by others...Did anyone actually inform her about what a V.P. does? Judging from this speech, she still may not know...
This was her coming out speech??? This is what she's been working on all week?? I still don't know who she is. All I've learned is that she is great at delivering one liners written by others...Did anyone actually inform her about what a V.P. does? Judging from this speech, she still may not know... less

AG

updated September 4, 2008 how many times are they going to remind people that mccain was a POW?

and the whole "drill baby drill" chant frightens me to the core.
how many times are they going to remind people that mccain was a POW?

and the whole "drill baby drill" chant frightens me to the core. less

Matt

updated September 4, 2008 Never before tonight have i been pushed so far to the left and towards Barack Obama. I was undecided until Palin took the stage tonight. Arrogance beyond belief sums it up. No timing, substance, or tact. Just attacks ...more
Never before tonight have i been pushed so far to the left and towards Barack Obama. I was undecided until Palin took the stage tonight. Arrogance beyond belief sums it up. No timing, substance, or tact. Just attacks and the same stories that we have all heard over and over again. Tonight, my vote is decided and my candidate is Barack Obama. less

kriss go

updated September 4, 2008 Absolutely nothing of value. I am saddened that this woman who has such an unbelievable forum to discuss women's issues could only muster conversation around being a Hockey Mom. Where's her position on equal pay. O ...more
Absolutely nothing of value. I am saddened that this woman who has such an unbelievable forum to discuss women's issues could only muster conversation around being a Hockey Mom. Where's her position on equal pay. Obama had the class to be gratious to her, sadly, her only tactic is to attack. Thats not the woman I wish to represent me.

- Former Republican 44 year old mother of two! less

John

updated September 4, 2008 This speech belongs on Jerry Springer, not on a national political stage. There are 5 potshot-punchlines at Democrats for every one statement about McCain. Tell us something positive about your ideals, not about the t ...more
This speech belongs on Jerry Springer, not on a national political stage. There are 5 potshot-punchlines at Democrats for every one statement about McCain. Tell us something positive about your ideals, not about the top ten quips you came up with yesterday.

I'm so embarrassed for our country... less

Yep

updated September 4, 2008 Was only able to listen to her speech for 5 minutes before I had to turn off the T.V. We get it, you are from a small town, small towns make up America, you're a mom, yada yada yada. Good job...I guess.
Was only able to listen to her speech for 5 minutes before I had to turn off the T.V. We get it, you are from a small town, small towns make up America, you're a mom, yada yada yada. Good job...I guess. less

Hieian

updated September 4, 2008 Speech sound like a McCain script filled with misinformation and lame disses with no substance and no issues. F-

I am feeling that GOP may have killed their chances with their misguided VP selection.

Media taking the road of least resistence?

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 05:35:11 GMT

Had you read any media coverage of the RNC and Sarah Palin, in particular? In fact, have you read any political media since she was pronounced a Republican VP candidate?

A few things should become as strangely apparent as the media's self-torture over the real or perceived wrongs they had themselves heaped on this poor girl-next-door-turned-Republican-rising-star Sarah Palin.

Everywhere you look you see media pundits attacking the media (who? themselves?) for not being friendly to Sarah Palin.

Here's Ben Shapiro screaming of the sexist treatment of Sarah Palin in print, and National Review's Yuval Levin attack on what he saw as "A Shameful Week for Press", and the Telegraph's Janet Daley comparing Sarah Palin's Treatment by Media to Margaret Thatcher's

Wherever you look you see media attacking its own coverage of Sarah Palin. Is this some sort of a new Sado-masochistic fashion that has embroiled our MSM in the desire to out-self-lynch the other media outlets? Is this the guilt trip of realizing they're not being gentlemanly to a pretty lady? And if there are so many angry condemnations of the Palin condemnators, how come there are more of the former than there are of the latter? And how come all we see is this outright gushing over Mrs. Palin from every corner of the MSM, which drowns the few realistic voices, which rightfully and justifiably point to Sarah Palin's hypocricy, inexperience, and downright extreme religious fundamentalism?

But, perhaps, as Joe Cline of Time states Media are just doing their job?

Perhaps, we should ask ourselves a question: why should anyone really feel angry at media vetting a VP candidate? Or is it because the campaign themselves failed to vet her? Is the media forced to ask tough questions because McCain's people failed to do so? Or maybe the very amazement at a presidential candidate naming a running mate who he's met only ONCE before passes for savagery these days?

Or, perhaps, calling Sarah Palin for what she is, an inexperienced-girl-next-door-Christian-fundamentalist-anti-choice-anti-gay-right-hypocrite-authoritarian-governor-corrupt-politician-befriending-earmarks-requesting-flip-flopper-two-years-removed-from-a-tiny-town-mayorship Republican VP candidate, is somehow unbecoming for our media?

If Political News Media did not ask these absolutely necessary questions, they would not be media any more than gossip columns or obituaries. And for campaigns, their cheerleaders, or political pundits to feel offended by this is a true subversion of freedom of speech and, dare I say it, Democracy.

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 19:32:40 GMT

During a forum today, Tom Delay said that the Dems have a better ground game than the Republicans.

lets keep the momentum going by actually making sure that we get out the vote in November.

_________________

On that note, I would like to rally all democrats, liberals, independents, and yes even republicans who support Barack Obama and Joe Biden to join us at some point over the next few weeks and to become a part of this campaign.

From the start Barack Obama said that this campaign was unlike any other, and if you look at what's driven it you'll notice that it's people. It’s up to us to use every bit of energy and enthusiasm that we have to help Barack Obama get elected and change the course of our nation.

Now, you might not have a lot of time to help out or get involved or you don't have money to donate. But this campaign is not just about money or for hiring staffers to do all of the organizing. It's about us getting to know our neighbors and to actually use this campaign to transform our communities by becoming more involved in them. Just last week I met a 38 year old woman who can only volunteer for 2 hours a week, so she began to have phone banking events right from her living room, and she didn't even spend a dime on it. She used her free weekend cell phone minutes.

So, if you have just 15-30 minutes a week or if you want to go all out and volunteer for 1 or 10 hours a week. We need you! There are even ways to help out and volunteer right from HOME. If you have free weekend minutes you can help us make phone calls, send messages, sign postcards, etc. So regardless of your situation you can still own a piece of this campaign and be a part of it.

To find out how to help out from home or right in your community please check out http://www.mybarackobama.com where you will have to register (no spam) and after that you can click on Action or Events - The Events feature is amazing! all you have to do is type in your zip code and you'll be able to see all the local Obama related house party, voter registration drives, book reading meetings, church events, and a variety of other local event that are both Obama and non-Obama related. So if you want to be a part of this historic campaign or if you just want to learn more about local politics, check out the "events" site feature. Below are some other ways to get involved.

Get Involved with your Local Field Office

The very first thing you should do is contact your local field office. The campaign has opened dozens of offices in states across the country. Check out this National map and find the office closest to you,

Your local field office will ask you to help in their efforts on the ground.

Get Organized Locally

In some cases, there may not be a local field office nearby, or you may be excited to get started organizing in your own town.

In order to help you in that process, we’ve created a step-by-step guide with all the resources and advice that you may need in that process.

First off, let us know that you are committed to getting your group organized! If you let us know that you're working in your local community, we can better help to empower you.

Don’t be shy in trying to get the word out. The more people that know your event is happening, the more likely you’ll get a sizable crowd.

Finally, make sure your local campaign field office knows about your event. You can find the office closest to you by visiting BarackObama.com and selecting your state.

You can also advertise your event by going to the Events site

_________________

I personally know so many first times ranging from 16 - 72 years old who have gotten involved for the FIRST time. People who can only help out from home for 1 hour a week, and individuals who come in and volunteer every single day. What matters is that we need YOU to help us create positive change in our local communities and in turn help to change and reform this country. What matters is that we don't stay home and just talk about this stuff, but actually turn out the vote and get out there and get to know others who are trying to help our country.

Feel free to call your field office or leave me a message w/ any of your questions.

Obama wowes, electrifies, hypnotizes

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 12:37:44 GMT

Obama Magnificent, Presidential, Substantive, and Inspirational in his speech to highlight the Democratic National Convention.

I have seen many speeches in my relative short life. They have been acceptance speeches, attack speeches, campaign stump speeches. Obama's speech at the end of the Democratic Convention was all of that and more. He's usual oratorial brilliance was expertly interwoven with powerful attacks at McCain and detailed description of 29 points of Barack's presidential platform. Obama looks more and more presidential despite the polls remaining close. However, RCP is starting to register a convention bounce and the convention only ended yesterday.

People are still talking about this speech and will continue to talk about it. In the four day span that had seen many electric speeches, such as the one by Ted Kennedy, Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton, Bill Clinton, Joe Biden, <a href='http://thedemocraticdaily.com/2008/08/28/al-gores-dnc-speech/">Al Gore</a>, this speech stood on its own, at the pinnacle of political speaking. This speech alone may have created the case for why Obama should be the president. And if there is still any lingering division in the Democratic ranks, I do not see how it could still be significant. And another thing this convention had symbolized: how many powerful, magnetic, inspiring personalities are leading the Democratic Party. The party is carried by true giants. Accross the isle, we find a party devoid of leadership, mired in corruption and cronyism. This should be a no-brainer. <font color=red size=5 face="Courier new">Obama! Obama! Yes We Can!</font>

No Way, No How, No McCain

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 04:36:35 GMT

This is what I wrote on my own LJ page: "I am still on the emotional high from what I (and millions of Americans) had just experienced. Hillary Clinton certainly delivered. I can not imagined how she could have done her assignment any better. Hillary was gracious in defeat and committed to continue the fight to prevent the Republicans from continuing the occupation of the White House. She reminded everyone that what she has fought so hard for all her life, Obama will fight for. And all that she stands for McCain stands against. Which is why she supports Obama against McCain and which is why we all should. She has called on her supporters and, indeed, all Americans, to stand with her in support of Barak Obama and Joe Biden as they fight for "we the people" against the "we the few". After this speech, if there is still any of her supporters who will not support Obama, perhaps, nothing will change their mind. A great majority of them will support the Democratic ticket. As she had said herself, if people had supported her platform, rather than supporting herself personally, they must unite with Obama supporters to fight for their united platform. Today, those who can be reasoned with were inspired. Those who can't - never will be." I am wondering if there are still Hillary supporters who see their candidate wholeheartedly and forthrightly commit herself to join Barak Obama in support of our Democratic platform and, yet, not supporting Barak Obama (or even worse - vote for McCain). I'd like to meet these people, talk to them, and hear their reasoning (if there is any). I know two such supporters, my own parents. They will not vote for Obama (in fairness, they will not vote for McCain, either). But when prompted for their reasoning, they did exactly what Hillary had warned against in her speech today at the DNC, they supported HER not what she stood for... I do not see this as an objective reason for a Hillary supporter not to vote for Obama come November. What does everyone else think about that?

Reality and McCain move in different circles...

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 18:10:48 GMT

McCain came out with a new ad, which alleges that Obama will raise taxes and freely spend it

But is Obama truly the tax-raising spendthrift that McCain and Co have been trying to make him out to be?

As usual, Paul Krugman can be counted on for an expert analysis:

(excerpt)Mr. McCain wants to preserve almost all the Bush tax cuts, and add to them by cutting taxes on corporations. Mr. Obama wants to roll back the high-end Bush tax cuts — the cuts in tax rates on the top two income brackets and the cuts in tax rates on income from dividends and capital gains — and use some of that money to reduce taxes lower down the scale.

According to estimates prepared by the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center, those Obama tax increases would fall overwhelmingly on people with incomes of more than $200,000 a year. Are such people rich? Well, maybe not: some of those Mr. Obama proposes taxing are only denizens of lower Richistan, although the really big tax increases would fall on upper Richistan. But one thing’s for sure: Mr. Obama isn’t planning to raise taxes on the middle class, by any reasonable definition — even that of the Bush administration.

O.K., the Bush administration hasn’t actually offered a definition of “middle class.” But in May, the Treasury Department — which used to do serious tax studies, but these days just churns out Bush administration propaganda — released a report purporting to show, by looking at the tax bills of four hypothetical families, how the middle and working class would be hurt if the Bush tax cuts aren’t made permanent.

And when the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities looked at the report, it made an interesting catch. It turns out that Treasury’s hypothetical families got all their gains from the so-called middle-class provisions of the Bush tax cuts: the Child Tax Credit, the reduced tax bracket for lower incomes and marriage penalty relief.

These all happen to be provisions that Mr. Obama proposes leaving in place. In other words, the Bush administration itself implicitly defines the middle class as consisting of people making too little to end up paying additional taxes under the Obama plan.

Of course, all the evidence in the world won’t stop Republicans from claiming, as they always do, that Democrats are going to impose a crippling tax burden on ordinary hard-working Americans. But it just ain’t so.

Republicans can never be too burdened with truth. We all know that. But, perhaps, this time around, we MUST be much more forthright in combatting the Republican fantasies.

In unrelated, but, nevertheless, very interesting (and wishful) news, Gore to speak on Democratic convention's final night

I wonder what that could be about...

I think comments are superfluous

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 05:18:09 GMT

McCain - out of touch, devoid of reality, a terrible perspective for America

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:16:15 GMT

THE CAPITAL OF SOUTH OSSETIA IS WIPED OFF THE POLITICAL MAP
THE CAPITAL OF SOUTH OSSETIA IS WIPED OFF THE POLITICAL MAP

The day of August 8 has put a final and irreversible end to the claims of Georgia for this territory. This obvious fact just has to be recognized officially. Today, Moscow possesses an unquestionable moral right for declaring South Ossetia and Abkhazia as territories of Russia. The will of the peoples, expressed earlier at the public referendums, is to be satisfied, as well as their natural desire to be protected by a strong nation.

Saakashvili spent the whole term of his presidency provoking Russia for physical response – to his verbal humiliating statements, to the capture and interrogation of officers of the Russian peacekeeping contingent by his henchmen, to the selection of an alternative government of South Ossetia etc. Thus, when Georgian aircrafts and artillery were systematically bombing living quarters and hospitals of Tskhinval, the center of the breakaway South Ossetia, and killing injured peacekeepers, he was just doing his job. He was doing what he was instructed to do by his US employers. Tskhinvali, as the center of the unrecognized state of South Ossetia, does not exists any longer. What does exist is the Russian city of Tskhinval.

http://www.win.ru/war/463.phtml

The Audacity of Soap

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:02:24 GMT

Is Barack Obama the start of a movement or the continuation of something that has already begun?

Click here to read the full article:

http://blogcritics.org/archives/2008/08/12/151934.php

Enjoy, Alex Hutchinson

Video

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:58:47 GMT

!!!

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:58:02 GMT

Hi, this video is directed to an American public and the rest of civilized Western world. I am a Russian citizen, I live in United States for a long time, for over 10 years. I happened to be in Russia now and I caught all this "action" that's taking place in South Ossetia, a region in Georgia. I never posted on youtube, but I couldn't hold myself from doing it now. I had to do this.
My message to American public is meant as a wake up call. American and other Western media especially CNN is feeding you complete horse shit! Russia did not invade and did not attack Georgia. It was a response to a horrible war crime committed by Georgian president Mikhail Saakashvili, this irresponsible man who just can't stand Russia, hates us, and will kiss America's and Europe's ass just to get a chance to join NATO and European Union. America has always supported Georgian "democracy" and I suspect actually that it was America who instigated Georgia to commit this crime.... on the first day of Olympics! How ironic is that? But please don't take this allegation too close heartedly, my point is not about whether or not U.S. government had any role in this, my point is to give you truth about what really happened Thursday night

So again, Russia did not invade or attack Georgia, as your media outlets are saying.

A brief geography and history lesson. South Ossetia is a very small region about 40 miles by 40 miles in the northern Georgia. It's population is around 70000 people. It borders with Russia. Today, many of the residents of South Ossetia are Russian citizens holding Russian passports, it's our people. South Ossetia had claimed independence from Georgia in 1992. Obviously it was never recognized by any international organizations. In 2006, they held an election where 99% of the voters supported independence from Georgia, and the turn out rate was 95%, it was monitored by a team of 34 international observers from the West. It still was not recognized by the world. As an analogy I would like to bring Kosovo situation, Serbian region in the south that was illegally snatched from Serbia and made into an independent country. Please look it up on Wikipedia and see how similar this situation is. How ironic is that America never supported Southern Ossetia same way it supported Kosovo. Obviously, it was made to show Russia how unfriendly the rest of the world is towards us.

Thursday night, Georgian military started an attack against South Ossetia. It was yesterday. They shelled the main city of Tshinkvali. They killed over a 1000 people. The excuse was to "restore the constitutional order in the region". BULLSHIT! This attack was an attempt to commit "ethnic cleansing", it was an act of genocide. They shelled civilian houses, schools, hospitals, without any warning. They also captured several villages near Tshinkvali. Reports say that they attempt to kill anyone of the Ossetian nationality. It was a pure act of Genocide. Wake up!

Russia couldn't watch this atrocity happening to its own citizens. We had no choice but to bring in our military into the region and protect our people. Whatever happens next the world needs to know, that the cause of this conflict is Georgia and its president. Before you accept what your media tells you, before you get fired up by McCains irresponsible allegations and comments, try remember all the lies that American media had always fed you, try to read news from other media outlets, not russian, but other parts of the world, other than U.S. or U.K.'s media.

America needs to wake up and stop doing what it's doing. Stop seeing an enemy in Russia. Stop using countries like Georgia, Ukraine, Poland, Latvia, Estonia who are basically acting like prostitutes of U.S. government in their public acts of hatred towards Russia.

And finally need to say, Mr. SSHAshvili that's how we like to call him. S.SH.A stands for U.S.A in Russian. Mr. SSHAshvili will pay for what happened yesterday.

Russia DID NOT ATTACK Georgia!

Sun, 10 Aug 2008 17:21:03 GMT

The world. You deceive! World mass media conduct propagation of a false information. Russia DID NOT ATTACK Georgia! 07.08.2008 at 22:00 Georgia has attacked South Ossetia. At 3:30 08.08.2008 tanks of the Georgian armies have entered into city Tskhinvali. Artillery bombardment all the day long proceeded, fights with use of tanks and heavy combat material, both against ossetic armies, and against peace inhabitants were conducted. 2000 civil people already were lost. The Russian peacemakers have arrived to South Ossetia in the evening 08.08.2008 for settlement of the conflict and prompting of the world in republic and protection of the Russian citizens living on territory of South Ossetia. Georgia has attacked South Ossetia on eve of Olympiad, it is top of cruelty and cynicism. We shall tell is not present to WAR!!!

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The Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has called the Georgian assault “a crime”.

He has personally toured the beds of the injured, and spoken with refugees, across the border in North Ossetia, inside Russia. He said he could no longer bear to listen to their appalling stories.

One women told him she had seen relatives pushed into a house which was then set on fire. Another described an old woman and two children being crushed by a Georgian tank. Putin insisted it was “beyond the imagination of any civilised person”.

The prime minister returned to Moscow adamant that Russian intervention in South Ossetia was completely justified.

In front of television cameras, speaking to President Dmitry Medvedev, Putin said:
“People are in a difficult situation, especially old people, children and women. They have seen a lot of suffering. I would like to draw your attention, Mr President, to elements of genocide against South Ossetian people”

It appears there are moves to create humanitarian corridors for refugees to flee. But Georgia insists nothing has yet been agreed.

http://www.euronews.net/en/article/10/08/2008/putin-calls-georgian-assault-a-crime-and-genocide/

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/10/world/europe/10diplo.html?ref=europe

No western cameras in South Ossetia
The conflict over Georgia’s breakaway republic is as much about information as it is about weapons. South Ossetia's press service claims Western media outlets can't be trusted because they haven't been operating in the region ”since the conflict began”.
http://www.russiatoday.ru/news/news/28738/video

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Paul Krugman hits another one out of the park

Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:56:11 GMT

Know-Nothing Politics

By PAUL KRUGMAN

Published: August 7, 2008

So the G.O.P. has found its issue for the 2008 election. For the next three months the party plans to keep chanting: “Drill here! Drill now! Drill here! Drill now! Four legs good, two legs bad!” O.K., I added that last part.

And the debate on energy policy has helped me find the words for something I’ve been thinking about for a while. Republicans, once hailed as the “party of ideas,” have become the party of stupid.

Now, I don’t mean that G.O.P. politicians are, on average, any dumber than their Democratic counterparts. And I certainly don’t mean to question the often frightening smarts of Republican political operatives.

What I mean, instead, is that know-nothingism — the insistence that there are simple, brute-force, instant-gratification answers to every problem, and that there’s something effeminate and weak about anyone who suggests otherwise — has become the core of Republican policy and political strategy. The party’s de facto slogan has become: “Real men don’t think things through.”

In the case of oil, this takes the form of pretending that more drilling would produce fast relief at the gas pump. In fact, earlier this week Republicans in Congress actually claimed credit for the recent fall in oil prices: “The market is responding to the fact that we are here talking,” said Representative John Shadegg.

What about the experts at the Department of Energy who say that it would take years before offshore drilling would yield any oil at all, and that even then the effect on prices at the pump would be “insignificant”? Presumably they’re just a bunch of wimps, probably Democrats. And the Democrats, as Representative Michele Bachmann assures us, “want Americans to move to the urban core, live in tenements, take light rail to their government jobs.”

Is this political pitch too dumb to succeed? Don’t count on it.

Remember how the Iraq war was sold. The stuff about aluminum tubes and mushroom clouds was just window dressing. The main political argument was, “They attacked us, and we’re going to strike back” — and anyone who tried to point out that Saddam and Osama weren’t the same person was an effete snob who hated America, and probably looked French.

Let’s also not forget that for years President Bush was the center of a cult of personality that lionized him as a real-world Forrest Gump, a simple man who prevails through his gut instincts and moral superiority. “Mr. Bush is the triumph of the seemingly average American man,” declared Peggy Noonan, writing in The Wall Street Journal in 2004. “He’s not an intellectual. Intellectuals start all the trouble in the world.”

It wasn’t until Hurricane Katrina — when the heckuva job done by the man of whom Ms. Noonan said, “if there’s a fire on the block, he’ll run out and help” revealed the true costs of obliviousness — that the cult began to fade.

What’s more, the politics of stupidity didn’t just appeal to the poorly informed. Bear in mind that members of the political and media elites were more pro-war than the public at large in the fall of 2002, even though the flimsiness of the case for invading Iraq should have been even more obvious to those paying close attention to the issue than it was to the average voter.

Why were the elite so hawkish? Well, I heard a number of people express privately the argument that some influential commentators made publicly — that the war was a good idea, not because Iraq posed a real threat, but because beating up someone in the Middle East, never mind who, would show Muslims that we mean business. In other words, even alleged wise men bought into the idea of macho posturing as policy.

All this is in the past. But the state of the energy debate shows that Republicans, despite Mr. Bush’s plunge into record unpopularity and their defeat in 2006, still think that know-nothing politics works. And they may be right.

Sad to say, the current drill-and-burn campaign is getting some political traction. According to one recent poll, 69 percent of Americans now favor expanded offshore drilling — and 51 percent of them believe that removing restrictions on drilling would reduce gas prices within a year.

The headway Republicans are making on this issue won’t prevent Democrats from expanding their majority in Congress, but it might limit their gains — and could conceivably swing the presidential election, where the polls show a much closer race.

In any case, remember this the next time someone calls for an end to partisanship, for working together to solve the country’s problems. It’s not going to happen — not as long as one of America’s two great parties believes that when it comes to politics, stupidity is the best policy.

This is so true about GOP's politics of today: Find a single issue that might resonate with the unwashed masses and which might allow you to show some sort of fortrightness and fortitude. And then exploit it to its fullest, no matter how silly, untrue, or downright deceptive. Then the Mass Media buys it enmasse and, all of a sudden, this silly, primitive message is on stickers, flags, and politicians' tongues...