*** Official Barack Obama FBG campaign headquarters *** (3 Viewers)

[adonis]

Barack Obama speaks about Fidel Castro stepping down

Statement of Senator Barack Obama on Fidel Castro Stepping Down

Chicago, IL | February 19, 2008

Chicago, IL - Senator Barack Obama today released the following statement on Fidel Castro stepping down.

Statement from Barack Obama:

"Today should mark the end of a dark era in Cuba's history. Fidel Castro's stepping down is an essential first step, but it is sadly insufficient in bringing freedom to Cuba.

" Cuba's future should be determined by the Cuban people and not by an anti-democratic successor regime. The prompt release of all prisoners of conscience wrongly jailed for standing up for the basic freedoms too long denied to the Cuban people would mark an important break with the past. It's time for these heroes to be released.

"If the Cuban leadership begins opening Cuba to meaningful democratic change, the United States must be prepared to begin taking steps to normalize relations and to ease the embargo of the last five decades. The freedom of the Cuban people is a cause that should bring Americans together."

 

[Joe Kidd]

Nationally, Barack Obama leads John McCain in eight of the nine most recent head-to-head polls, while Senator Clinton leads in only two.

http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/p...ateupdates/CyQp

Edit for link.

 

[D_House]

Thought this was an interesting article in light of criticism of Obama's "naive" stance with respect to Pakistan and the potential for unilateral action against terrorists residing there:

U.S. strikes within Pakistan — without notice

Unilateral attack on al-Qaeda commander called a model for operations

In the predawn hours of Jan. 29, a CIA Predator aircraft flew in a slow arc above the Pakistani town of Mir Ali. The drone's operator, relying on information secretly passed to the CIA by local informants, clicked a computer mouse and sent the first of two Hellfire missiles hurtling toward a cluster of mud-brick buildings a few miles from the town center.

The missiles killed Abu Laith al-Libi, a senior al-Qaeda commander and a man who had repeatedly eluded the CIA's dragnet. It was the first successful strike against al-Qaeda's core leadership in two years, and it involved, U.S. officials say, an unusual degree of autonomy by the CIA inside Pakistan.

Having requested the Pakistani government's official permission for such strikes on previous occasions, only to be put off or turned down, this time the U.S. spy agency did not seek approval. The government of Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf was notified only as the operation was underway, according to the officials, who insisted on anonymity because of diplomatic sensitivities.

 

[snitwitch]

Thought this was an interesting article in light of criticism of Obama's "naive" stance with respect to Pakistan and the potential for unilateral action against terrorists residing there:

U.S. strikes within Pakistan — without notice

Unilateral attack on al-Qaeda commander called a model for operations

In the predawn hours of Jan. 29, a CIA Predator aircraft flew in a slow arc above the Pakistani town of Mir Ali. The drone's operator, relying on information secretly passed to the CIA by local informants, clicked a computer mouse and sent the first of two Hellfire missiles hurtling toward a cluster of mud-brick buildings a few miles from the town center.

The missiles killed Abu Laith al-Libi, a senior al-Qaeda commander and a man who had repeatedly eluded the CIA's dragnet. It was the first successful strike against al-Qaeda's core leadership in two years, and it involved, U.S. officials say, an unusual degree of autonomy by the CIA inside Pakistan.

Having requested the Pakistani government's official permission for such strikes on previous occasions, only to be put off or turned down, this time the U.S. spy agency did not seek approval. The government of Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf was notified only as the operation was underway, according to the officials, who insisted on anonymity because of diplomatic sensitivities.

This is how our hard power should be used to fight terrorism.

 

[Orange Crush]

Thought this was an interesting article in light of criticism of Obama's "naive" stance with respect to Pakistan and the potential for unilateral action against terrorists residing there:

U.S. strikes within Pakistan — without notice

Unilateral attack on al-Qaeda commander called a model for operations

In the predawn hours of Jan. 29, a CIA Predator aircraft flew in a slow arc above the Pakistani town of Mir Ali. The drone's operator, relying on information secretly passed to the CIA by local informants, clicked a computer mouse and sent the first of two Hellfire missiles hurtling toward a cluster of mud-brick buildings a few miles from the town center.

The missiles killed Abu Laith al-Libi, a senior al-Qaeda commander and a man who had repeatedly eluded the CIA's dragnet. It was the first successful strike against al-Qaeda's core leadership in two years, and it involved, U.S. officials say, an unusual degree of autonomy by the CIA inside Pakistan.

Having requested the Pakistani government's official permission for such strikes on previous occasions, only to be put off or turned down, this time the U.S. spy agency did not seek approval. The government of Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf was notified only as the operation was underway, according to the officials, who insisted on anonymity because of diplomatic sensitivities.

As I said earlier in this thread, Obama's public stance that he was much criticized over turned out to be the official policy of the U.S. government under Bush, and for good reason.

 

[D_House]

As I said earlier in this thread, Obama's public stance that he was much criticized over turned out to be the official policy of the U.S. government under Bush, and for good reason.

So Obama has essentially demonstrated both great awareness and prescience regarding the best approaches to fighting terrorism twice now (with his criticism of Iraq and his statements on Pakistan), and both in the face of strong criticism from political opponents. I'm really starting to warm up to the guy. I'm still not sure that a withdrawal from Iraq is the right answer though.

 

[snitwitch]

As I said earlier in this thread, Obama's public stance that he was much criticized over turned out to be the official policy of the U.S. government under Bush, and for good reason.

So Obama has essentially demonstrated both great awareness and prescience regarding the best approaches to fighting terrorism twice now (with his criticism of Iraq and his statements on Pakistan), and both in the face of strong criticism from political opponents. I'm really starting to warm up to the guy. I'm still not sure that a withdrawal from Iraq is the right answer though.

Frankly, I agree with you here. I think he said something a few weeks back about the necessity of maintaining the flexibility to change his mind on this front as commander in chief, which I liked.

 

[adonis]

As I said earlier in this thread, Obama's public stance that he was much criticized over turned out to be the official policy of the U.S. government under Bush, and for good reason.

So Obama has essentially demonstrated both great awareness and prescience regarding the best approaches to fighting terrorism twice now (with his criticism of Iraq and his statements on Pakistan), and both in the face of strong criticism from political opponents. I'm really starting to warm up to the guy. I'm still not sure that a withdrawal from Iraq is the right answer though.

I think he'll do whatever is necessary to ensure that political progress is made in Iraq, he's just convinced that it will not be achieved through military force. He wants to end combat operations in Iraq asap with the option to use troops for other security operations in iraq, like protecting our people and training iraqi's. But I bet he'd be flexible.

 

[Autumn Wind]

So what time do the polls close tonight (in WI, not HI)?

 

[Arsenal of Doom]

57% of Wisc. Democratic voters were women today.

 

[Homer J Simpson]

57% of Wisc. Democratic voters were women today.

I still have a bad feeling.

 

[whitem0nkey]

So what time do the polls close tonight (in WI, not HI)?

i believe its 8pm central time, thats what i heard on CNN radio.

 

[Arsenal of Doom]

57% of Wisc. Democratic voters were women today.

I still have a bad feeling.

Also:88% White voters8% African American4% HispanicSo the big majority of voters were white women, which is one demographic that Hillary still has fairly well locked down. Obama will of course dominate the AA vote, and will win white men, but he probably needs to be very close on women. The Clinton people are being pretty demur today too. They are saying things like, "we don't really expect to win, but if we do it will be a major coup." I think they know it's going to be close and could definitely be going their way.

 

[cosjobs]

Obama Wins Big with Wine Crowd

If you can recognize the smell of a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc as cat pee on a gooseberry bush or you actually know how to pronounce Viognier, chances are you're also voting for Senator Barack Obama in '08, according to a straw poll conducted by Austin Wine Bat.

Eighty-one wine drinkers (53 female; 28 male) were polled during blind wine tastings held on Monday, February 11 and Monday, February 18 at Green Pastures (811 W. Live Oak) and hosted by Wine Bat. Obama received 31% of the votes, beating out Senator John McCain, who received 21%. Senator Hillary Clinton received 7%. Ten percent of the wine drinkers, however, said they planned to vote for whichever Democratic candidate is elected.

When put up against McCain during the general election, Obama scored even higher, receiving 59% of the votes to McCain's 27% (the remaining voters were undecided or had no answer). Against Clinton, McCain received 36% with Clinton receiving 50%.

The majority of the polled wine drinkers were college-educated Caucasians whose annual household income is more than $75,000. (Please see data for more information.)

"I'm surprised-given the high number of women who attended these tastings-that Clinton didn't received more votes," said Damon Young, president of Wine Bat.

link

 

[Gopher State]

Contrasting John McCain and Michelle Obama

One of the best qualities of John McCain is his oft-expressed appreciation and gratitude for the opportunities America has given him, and the life he's been able to lead since a terrible ordeal.

Five and a half years in a POW camp could leave a man bitter and angry. Yet from every outward appearance, McCain seems to recognize that in the big picture, he's a lucky man. He's financially well-off, he has a beautiful and supportive wife, a lovely family of seven children, a political career that has featured comebacks and second and third chances that a lot of presidential candidates don't get... He's offered probably the most poignant comments of the race so far:

When I was a young man, I thought glory was the highest ambition, and that all glory was self-glory. My parents tried to teach me otherwise, as did the Naval Academy. But I didn't understand the lesson until later in life, when I confronted challenges I never expected to face.

In that confrontation I discovered that I was dependent on others to a greater extent than I had ever realized, but that neither they nor the cause we served made any claims on my identity. On the contrary, I discovered that nothing is more liberating in life than to fight for a cause that encompasses you, but is not defined by your existence alone. And that has made all the difference, my friends, all the difference in the world.

I do not seek the presidency on the presumption that I am blessed with such personal greatness that history has anointed me to save my country in its hour of need. I seek the presidency with the humility of a man who cannot forget that my country saved me.

About 99 percent of America's political leaders have "the good life" in a way Americans will never experience. (For that matter, I've been lucky enough to enjoy 'the good life' in a way most Americans don't.) Any political leader who offers comments in the vein of "poor me, poor me" ought to be kicked out of office for losing perspective and not recognizing how good they have it.

Mike Huckabee comes close to this when he complains he has no salary right now, and thus has to give paid speaking engagements to pay the mortgage. The NY Times notes:

Mr. Huckabee himself has never been rich, drawing a $74,000 salary as governor, though when he left office, he bought a house in Little Rock for $525,000. On his most recent federal financial disclosure form, for 2006, he valued his assets at between $318,000 and $895,000. He earned nearly $150,000 in book royalties and made approximately $50,000 in speaking honorariums that year. His highest speaking fee was $17,000.

And then we come to Michelle Obama, who suggests that her husband's success is her first reason to feel pride in America in her adult life. Others have addressed the numerous and obvious reasons for pride that easily fit the time period of "her adult life."

America hasn't been good to her? What, opportunities to go to Princeton, Harvard Law, working for top-shelf law firms and hospitals, sitting on the board of directors for a major Wal-Mart supplier — that's not enough?

Kaus wonders if it's an expression of jealousy of her husband. Either way, it's a strikingly ungracious remark, and she's certain to be asked about it in the near future.

But there's a contrast of attitudes Republicans can feel comfortable with:

McCain: I'm blessed to be here, and owe everything to my country.

Michelle Obama: Supporting my husband is the first decent thing this lousy country has done in a long time.

National Review Online

Good thing Michelle is not running for Pres

 

[shining path]

In the next issue of The Nation: An overview of Barack Obama and Cindy McCain's qualifications to analyze questions of Constitutional Law. Cindy doesn't even have a Masters in Poli Sci. How can she possibly be expected to compete with Obama?

Cindy McCain: overmatched and overwhelmed.

 

[cosjobs]

Contrasting John McCain and Michelle ObamaOne of the best qualities of John McCain is his oft-expressed appreciation and gratitude for the opportunities America has given him, and the life he's been able to lead since a terrible ordeal. Five and a half years in a POW camp could leave a man bitter and angry. Yet from every outward appearance, McCain seems to recognize that in the big picture, he's a lucky man. He's financially well-off, he has a beautiful and supportive wife, a lovely family of seven children, a political career that has featured comebacks and second and third chances that a lot of presidential candidates don't get... He's offered probably the most poignant comments of the race so far:When I was a young man, I thought glory was the highest ambition, and that all glory was self-glory. My parents tried to teach me otherwise, as did the Naval Academy. But I didn't understand the lesson until later in life, when I confronted challenges I never expected to face.In that confrontation I discovered that I was dependent on others to a greater extent than I had ever realized, but that neither they nor the cause we served made any claims on my identity. On the contrary, I discovered that nothing is more liberating in life than to fight for a cause that encompasses you, but is not defined by your existence alone. And that has made all the difference, my friends, all the difference in the world.I do not seek the presidency on the presumption that I am blessed with such personal greatness that history has anointed me to save my country in its hour of need. I seek the presidency with the humility of a man who cannot forget that my country saved me. About 99 percent of America's political leaders have "the good life" in a way Americans will never experience. (For that matter, I've been lucky enough to enjoy 'the good life' in a way most Americans don't.) Any political leader who offers comments in the vein of "poor me, poor me" ought to be kicked out of office for losing perspective and not recognizing how good they have it.Mike Huckabee comes close to this when he complains he has no salary right now, and thus has to give paid speaking engagements to pay the mortgage. The NY Times notes: Mr. Huckabee himself has never been rich, drawing a $74,000 salary as governor, though when he left office, he bought a house in Little Rock for $525,000. On his most recent federal financial disclosure form, for 2006, he valued his assets at between $318,000 and $895,000. He earned nearly $150,000 in book royalties and made approximately $50,000 in speaking honorariums that year. His highest speaking fee was $17,000. And then we come to Michelle Obama, who suggests that her husband's success is her first reason to feel pride in America in her adult life. Others have addressed the numerous and obvious reasons for pride that easily fit the time period of "her adult life."America hasn't been good to her? What, opportunities to go to Princeton, Harvard Law, working for top-shelf law firms and hospitals, sitting on the board of directors for a major Wal-Mart supplier — that's not enough?Kaus wonders if it's an expression of jealousy of her husband. Either way, it's a strikingly ungracious remark, and she's certain to be asked about it in the near future. But there's a contrast of attitudes Republicans can feel comfortable with:McCain: I'm blessed to be here, and owe everything to my country.Michelle Obama: Supporting my husband is the first decent thing this lousy country has done in a long time. National Review OnlineGood thing Michelle is not running for Pres

I'll talk MIchelle over McCain ANY day.Four years ago, I respected McCain, now I resent the sell-out he has become. His straight talk has become pandering and his principals are his only points of compromise anymore.And for a Hillary backer to serve this tripe up for whatever reason, makes me question the inspiration and purpose of their campaign and motivations of their supporters.

 

[Orange Crush]

57% of Wisc. Democratic voters were women today.

:(

I still have a bad feeling.

Also:88% White voters

8% African American

4% Hispanic

So the big majority of voters were white women, which is one demographic that Hillary still has fairly well locked down. Obama will of course dominate the AA vote, and will win white men, but he probably needs to be very close on women.

The Clinton people are being pretty demur today too. They are saying things like, "we don't really expect to win, but if we do it will be a major coup." I think they know it's going to be close and could definitely be going their way.

http://www.abcnews.go.com/PollingUnit/Vote...2579&page=1

But a substantial majority of Democratic voters are women, more than usual for a Wisconsin Democratic primary ... The preliminary results also indicate that more seniors than usual are voting in the Democratic race -- up from their 2004 level, and also potentially a high for Democratic voters this cycle, though again it'll take final data later tonight to see that holds. ... In the Democratic contest, about four in 10 voters have college degrees -- another important factor in voting decisions this year. That's a bit under the norm in primaries so far.

All of this is looking very, very bad.

 

[Arsenal of Doom]

57% of Wisc. Democratic voters were women today.

:(

I still have a bad feeling.

Also:88% White voters

8% African American

4% Hispanic

So the big majority of voters were white women, which is one demographic that Hillary still has fairly well locked down. Obama will of course dominate the AA vote, and will win white men, but he probably needs to be very close on women.

The Clinton people are being pretty demur today too. They are saying things like, "we don't really expect to win, but if we do it will be a major coup." I think they know it's going to be close and could definitely be going their way.

http://www.abcnews.go.com/PollingUnit/Vote...2579&page=1

But a substantial majority of Democratic voters are women, more than usual for a Wisconsin Democratic primary ... The preliminary results also indicate that more seniors than usual are voting in the Democratic race -- up from their 2004 level, and also potentially a high for Democratic voters this cycle, though again it'll take final data later tonight to see that holds. ... In the Democratic contest, about four in 10 voters have college degrees -- another important factor in voting decisions this year. That's a bit under the norm in primaries so far.

All of this is looking very, very bad.

Yeah, the only sliver of hope right now is that 25% of voters were registered Independents.

 

[Homer J Simpson]

Really not feeling good about tonight.

Have I mentioned that yet?

 

[Kilgore Trout]

Yeah, the only sliver of hope right now is that 25% of voters were registered Independents.

Early FOX exit polls look good for Obama:

Among Democrats

Women: Obama 51%, Clinton 49%

Families with income under 50,000: Obama 51%, Clinton 49%

Independents: Obama 63%, Clinton 34%

Seniors: Clinton 60%, Obama 39%

Top quality — experience: Clinton 95%, Obama 5%

Union households: Clinton 50%, Obama 49%

We'll see if these numbers hold up.

 

[Green and Gold]

I have quite a few relatives over in Wisconsin. There has been a barrage of 'Obama is hyper-liberal' advertising that has been very effective in swaying them away from Obama. Also, the Republican strategy out there is to tell their party to go out and vote Hilary, both to further divide the Democratic party and to make Clinton the candidate. Hilary will probably win this pretty big.

 

[Green and Gold]

Yeah, the only sliver of hope right now is that 25% of voters were registered Independents.

Early FOX exit polls look good for Obama:

Among Democrats

Women: Obama 51%, Clinton 49%

Families with income under 50,000: Obama 51%, Clinton 49%

Independents: Obama 63%, Clinton 34%

Seniors: Clinton 60%, Obama 39%

Top quality — experience: Clinton 95%, Obama 5%

Union households: Clinton 50%, Obama 49%

We'll see if these numbers hold up.

God I hope so.

 

[suspected]

Could Obama win the women's vote in WI? Early exit polls favorable.

http://www.talkleft.com/story/2008/2/19/183645/818

 

[Spiderman]

Yeah, the only sliver of hope right now is that 25% of voters were registered Independents.

Early FOX exit polls look good for Obama:

Among Democrats

Women: Obama 51%, Clinton 49%

Families with income under 50,000: Obama 51%, Clinton 49%

Independents: Obama 63%, Clinton 34%

Seniors: Clinton 60%, Obama 39%

Top quality — experience: Clinton 95%, Obama 5%

Union households: Clinton 50%, Obama 49%

We'll see if these numbers hold up.

God I hope so.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I didn't think that news organizations could release exit poll information/data until after the polls close, so that there isn't any undo influence upon people who haven't voted yet (i.e. staying home because the race "appears" to be decided based upon the polling...)

 

[cosjobs]

Yeah, the only sliver of hope right now is that 25% of voters were registered Independents.

Early FOX exit polls look good for Obama:

Among Democrats

Women: Obama 51%, Clinton 49%

Families with income under 50,000: Obama 51%, Clinton 49%

Independents: Obama 63%, Clinton 34%

Seniors: Clinton 60%, Obama 39%

Top quality — experience: Clinton 95%, Obama 5%

Union households: Clinton 50%, Obama 49%

We'll see if these numbers hold up.

God I hope so.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I didn't think that news organizations could release exit poll information/data until after the polls close, so that there isn't any undo influence upon people who haven't voted yet (i.e. staying home because the race "appears" to be decided based upon the polling...)

I think its just that it can't be on tv.

 

[Kleck.]

Can any WI FBGs report what they saw today when voting? TIA

I arrived to vote at around 6:15, and was voter #1054 from a total population of approx. 3600 (not sure how many are eligible to vote).Nothing exciting happened.

 

[RedRaiders]

Can any WI FBGs report what they saw today when voting? TIA

I arrived to vote at around 6:15, and was voter #1054 from a total population of approx. 3600 (not sure how many are eligible to vote).Nothing exciting happened.

Can you make something up that sounds exciting? We're looking for good news here.

 

[urbanhack]

Contrasting John McCain and Michelle ObamaOne of the best qualities of John McCain is his oft-expressed appreciation and gratitude for the opportunities America has given him, and the life he's been able to lead since a terrible ordeal. Five and a half years in a POW camp could leave a man bitter and angry. Yet from every outward appearance, McCain seems to recognize that in the big picture, he's a lucky man. He's financially well-off, he has a beautiful and supportive wife, a lovely family of seven children, a political career that has featured comebacks and second and third chances that a lot of presidential candidates don't get... He's offered probably the most poignant comments of the race so far:When I was a young man, I thought glory was the highest ambition, and that all glory was self-glory. My parents tried to teach me otherwise, as did the Naval Academy. But I didn't understand the lesson until later in life, when I confronted challenges I never expected to face.In that confrontation I discovered that I was dependent on others to a greater extent than I had ever realized, but that neither they nor the cause we served made any claims on my identity. On the contrary, I discovered that nothing is more liberating in life than to fight for a cause that encompasses you, but is not defined by your existence alone. And that has made all the difference, my friends, all the difference in the world.I do not seek the presidency on the presumption that I am blessed with such personal greatness that history has anointed me to save my country in its hour of need. I seek the presidency with the humility of a man who cannot forget that my country saved me. About 99 percent of America's political leaders have "the good life" in a way Americans will never experience. (For that matter, I've been lucky enough to enjoy 'the good life' in a way most Americans don't.) Any political leader who offers comments in the vein of "poor me, poor me" ought to be kicked out of office for losing perspective and not recognizing how good they have it.Mike Huckabee comes close to this when he complains he has no salary right now, and thus has to give paid speaking engagements to pay the mortgage. The NY Times notes: Mr. Huckabee himself has never been rich, drawing a $74,000 salary as governor, though when he left office, he bought a house in Little Rock for $525,000. On his most recent federal financial disclosure form, for 2006, he valued his assets at between $318,000 and $895,000. He earned nearly $150,000 in book royalties and made approximately $50,000 in speaking honorariums that year. His highest speaking fee was $17,000. And then we come to Michelle Obama, who suggests that her husband's success is her first reason to feel pride in America in her adult life. Others have addressed the numerous and obvious reasons for pride that easily fit the time period of "her adult life."America hasn't been good to her? What, opportunities to go to Princeton, Harvard Law, working for top-shelf law firms and hospitals, sitting on the board of directors for a major Wal-Mart supplier — that's not enough?Kaus wonders if it's an expression of jealousy of her husband. Either way, it's a strikingly ungracious remark, and she's certain to be asked about it in the near future. But there's a contrast of attitudes Republicans can feel comfortable with:McCain: I'm blessed to be here, and owe everything to my country.Michelle Obama: Supporting my husband is the first decent thing this lousy country has done in a long time. National Review OnlineGood thing Michelle is not running for Pres

You are a hack. A hillary supporter posting links from the National Review Online?Too lazy to post the link or did you not want us to see all the Rush and Hannity banners?

 

[Orange Crush]

Marc Abinder Breaks Down the Early (Unweighted) Exit Polls

Wisconsin Exit Polls: A Less Affluent, Less Well-Educated, Economically Sensitive Electorate

19 Feb 2008 05:30 pm

Info from our trusty pals at CBS News: this electorate is very white; only four in ten have a "college degree." They're "less affluent" than Dems in other states. The percentage of late deciders is declining: only 27% made up their minds within the last seven days.

-- Issue number one is, of course, the economy, followed by health care... adding the economy and health care brings you to nearly 70% of the electorate.

-- Change trumps experience, 52 to 24.

-- Very few first time voters -- only 17%.

-- 27% of the electorate were independent

-- Clinton was seen as the most unfair attacker;

-- Obama (55%) was seen as the candidate most like to improve relations with the res tof the world.

-- Clinton and Obama are seen as equally qualified to be commander in chief (50% and 48%), while Obama draws 60% or more on the questions of who best can unite the country and beat the Republicans.

 

[Kleck.]

Can any WI FBGs report what they saw today when voting? TIA

I arrived to vote at around 6:15, and was voter #1054 from a total population of approx. 3600 (not sure how many are eligible to vote).Nothing exciting happened.

Can you make something up that sounds exciting? We're looking for good news here.

I dropped a bomb as I walked out. Pretty sure someone got a taste of it... Hopefully a Hillary voter.

 

[timschochet]

Contrasting John McCain and Michelle ObamaOne of the best qualities of John McCain is his oft-expressed appreciation and gratitude for the opportunities America has given him, and the life he's been able to lead since a terrible ordeal. Five and a half years in a POW camp could leave a man bitter and angry. Yet from every outward appearance, McCain seems to recognize that in the big picture, he's a lucky man. He's financially well-off, he has a beautiful and supportive wife, a lovely family of seven children, a political career that has featured comebacks and second and third chances that a lot of presidential candidates don't get... He's offered probably the most poignant comments of the race so far:When I was a young man, I thought glory was the highest ambition, and that all glory was self-glory. My parents tried to teach me otherwise, as did the Naval Academy. But I didn't understand the lesson until later in life, when I confronted challenges I never expected to face.In that confrontation I discovered that I was dependent on others to a greater extent than I had ever realized, but that neither they nor the cause we served made any claims on my identity. On the contrary, I discovered that nothing is more liberating in life than to fight for a cause that encompasses you, but is not defined by your existence alone. And that has made all the difference, my friends, all the difference in the world.I do not seek the presidency on the presumption that I am blessed with such personal greatness that history has anointed me to save my country in its hour of need. I seek the presidency with the humility of a man who cannot forget that my country saved me. About 99 percent of America's political leaders have "the good life" in a way Americans will never experience. (For that matter, I've been lucky enough to enjoy 'the good life' in a way most Americans don't.) Any political leader who offers comments in the vein of "poor me, poor me" ought to be kicked out of office for losing perspective and not recognizing how good they have it.Mike Huckabee comes close to this when he complains he has no salary right now, and thus has to give paid speaking engagements to pay the mortgage. The NY Times notes: Mr. Huckabee himself has never been rich, drawing a $74,000 salary as governor, though when he left office, he bought a house in Little Rock for $525,000. On his most recent federal financial disclosure form, for 2006, he valued his assets at between $318,000 and $895,000. He earned nearly $150,000 in book royalties and made approximately $50,000 in speaking honorariums that year. His highest speaking fee was $17,000. And then we come to Michelle Obama, who suggests that her husband's success is her first reason to feel pride in America in her adult life. Others have addressed the numerous and obvious reasons for pride that easily fit the time period of "her adult life."America hasn't been good to her? What, opportunities to go to Princeton, Harvard Law, working for top-shelf law firms and hospitals, sitting on the board of directors for a major Wal-Mart supplier — that's not enough?Kaus wonders if it's an expression of jealousy of her husband. Either way, it's a strikingly ungracious remark, and she's certain to be asked about it in the near future. But there's a contrast of attitudes Republicans can feel comfortable with:McCain: I'm blessed to be here, and owe everything to my country.Michelle Obama: Supporting my husband is the first decent thing this lousy country has done in a long time. National Review OnlineGood thing Michelle is not running for Pres

You are a hack. A hillary supporter posting links from the National Review Online?Too lazy to post the link or did you not want us to see all the Rush and Hannity banners?

1. Who cares where the article is from?2. Who cares that he's a Hillary supporter?3. Who cares that he's a hack?I don 't necessarily agree with everything in this article, but it's at least thoughtful. If you disagree with it's substance, why not state why, rather than simply berating the guy who posted it?

 

[Arsenal of Doom]

Contrasting John McCain and Michelle Obama

One of the best qualities of John McCain is his oft-expressed appreciation and gratitude for the opportunities America has given him, and the life he's been able to lead since a terrible ordeal.

Five and a half years in a POW camp could leave a man bitter and angry. Yet from every outward appearance, McCain seems to recognize that in the big picture, he's a lucky man. He's financially well-off, he has a beautiful and supportive wife, a lovely family of seven children, a political career that has featured comebacks and second and third chances that a lot of presidential candidates don't get... He's offered probably the most poignant comments of the race so far:

When I was a young man, I thought glory was the highest ambition, and that all glory was self-glory. My parents tried to teach me otherwise, as did the Naval Academy. But I didn't understand the lesson until later in life, when I confronted challenges I never expected to face.

In that confrontation I discovered that I was dependent on others to a greater extent than I had ever realized, but that neither they nor the cause we served made any claims on my identity. On the contrary, I discovered that nothing is more liberating in life than to fight for a cause that encompasses you, but is not defined by your existence alone. And that has made all the difference, my friends, all the difference in the world.

I do not seek the presidency on the presumption that I am blessed with such personal greatness that history has anointed me to save my country in its hour of need. I seek the presidency with the humility of a man who cannot forget that my country saved me.

About 99 percent of America's political leaders have "the good life" in a way Americans will never experience. (For that matter, I've been lucky enough to enjoy 'the good life' in a way most Americans don't.) Any political leader who offers comments in the vein of "poor me, poor me" ought to be kicked out of office for losing perspective and not recognizing how good they have it.

Mike Huckabee comes close to this when he complains he has no salary right now, and thus has to give paid speaking engagements to pay the mortgage. The NY Times notes:

Mr. Huckabee himself has never been rich, drawing a $74,000 salary as governor, though when he left office, he bought a house in Little Rock for $525,000. On his most recent federal financial disclosure form, for 2006, he valued his assets at between $318,000 and $895,000. He earned nearly $150,000 in book royalties and made approximately $50,000 in speaking honorariums that year. His highest speaking fee was $17,000.

And then we come to Michelle Obama, who suggests that her husband's success is her first reason to feel pride in America in her adult life. Others have addressed the numerous and obvious reasons for pride that easily fit the time period of "her adult life."

America hasn't been good to her? What, opportunities to go to Princeton, Harvard Law, working for top-shelf law firms and hospitals, sitting on the board of directors for a major Wal-Mart supplier — that's not enough?

Kaus wonders if it's an expression of jealousy of her husband. Either way, it's a strikingly ungracious remark, and she's certain to be asked about it in the near future.

But there's a contrast of attitudes Republicans can feel comfortable with:

McCain: I'm blessed to be here, and owe everything to my country.

Michelle Obama: Supporting my husband is the first decent thing this lousy country has done in a long time.

National Review Online

Good thing Michelle is not running for Pres

You are a hack. A hillary supporter posting links from the National Review Online?Too lazy to post the link or did you not want us to see all the Rush and Hannity banners?

1. Who cares where the article is from?2. Who cares that he's a Hillary supporter?

3. Who cares that he's a hack?

I don 't necessarily agree with everything in this article, but it's at least thoughtful. If you disagree with it's substance, why not state why, rather than simply berating the guy who posted it?

I'll get around to reading this closely later, but how are we supposed to take a seriously an article with the title, Contrasting John McCain and Michelle Obama?

 

[urbanhack]

Contrasting John McCain and Michelle Obama

One of the best qualities of John McCain is his oft-expressed appreciation and gratitude for the opportunities America has given him, and the life he's been able to lead since a terrible ordeal.

Five and a half years in a POW camp could leave a man bitter and angry. Yet from every outward appearance, McCain seems to recognize that in the big picture, he's a lucky man. He's financially well-off, he has a beautiful and supportive wife, a lovely family of seven children, a political career that has featured comebacks and second and third chances that a lot of presidential candidates don't get... He's offered probably the most poignant comments of the race so far:

When I was a young man, I thought glory was the highest ambition, and that all glory was self-glory. My parents tried to teach me otherwise, as did the Naval Academy. But I didn't understand the lesson until later in life, when I confronted challenges I never expected to face.

In that confrontation I discovered that I was dependent on others to a greater extent than I had ever realized, but that neither they nor the cause we served made any claims on my identity. On the contrary, I discovered that nothing is more liberating in life than to fight for a cause that encompasses you, but is not defined by your existence alone. And that has made all the difference, my friends, all the difference in the world.

I do not seek the presidency on the presumption that I am blessed with such personal greatness that history has anointed me to save my country in its hour of need. I seek the presidency with the humility of a man who cannot forget that my country saved me.

About 99 percent of America's political leaders have "the good life" in a way Americans will never experience. (For that matter, I've been lucky enough to enjoy 'the good life' in a way most Americans don't.) Any political leader who offers comments in the vein of "poor me, poor me" ought to be kicked out of office for losing perspective and not recognizing how good they have it.

Mike Huckabee comes close to this when he complains he has no salary right now, and thus has to give paid speaking engagements to pay the mortgage. The NY Times notes:

Mr. Huckabee himself has never been rich, drawing a $74,000 salary as governor, though when he left office, he bought a house in Little Rock for $525,000. On his most recent federal financial disclosure form, for 2006, he valued his assets at between $318,000 and $895,000. He earned nearly $150,000 in book royalties and made approximately $50,000 in speaking honorariums that year. His highest speaking fee was $17,000.

And then we come to Michelle Obama, who suggests that her husband's success is her first reason to feel pride in America in her adult life. Others have addressed the numerous and obvious reasons for pride that easily fit the time period of "her adult life."

America hasn't been good to her? What, opportunities to go to Princeton, Harvard Law, working for top-shelf law firms and hospitals, sitting on the board of directors for a major Wal-Mart supplier — that's not enough?

Kaus wonders if it's an expression of jealousy of her husband. Either way, it's a strikingly ungracious remark, and she's certain to be asked about it in the near future.

But there's a contrast of attitudes Republicans can feel comfortable with:

McCain: I'm blessed to be here, and owe everything to my country.

Michelle Obama: Supporting my husband is the first decent thing this lousy country has done in a long time.

National Review Online

Good thing Michelle is not running for Pres

You are a hack. A hillary supporter posting links from the National Review Online?Too lazy to post the link or did you not want us to see all the Rush and Hannity banners?

1. Who cares where the article is from?2. Who cares that he's a Hillary supporter?

3. Who cares that he's a hack?

I don 't necessarily agree with everything in this article, but it's at least thoughtful. If you disagree with it's substance, why not state why, rather than simply berating the guy who posted it?

I'll get around to reading this closely later, but how are we supposed to take a seriously an article with the title, Contrasting John McCain and Michelle Obama?

Exactly. Why would you contrast the two in the first place?

 

[timschochet]

Contrasting John McCain and Michelle Obama

One of the best qualities of John McCain is his oft-expressed appreciation and gratitude for the opportunities America has given him, and the life he's been able to lead since a terrible ordeal.

Five and a half years in a POW camp could leave a man bitter and angry. Yet from every outward appearance, McCain seems to recognize that in the big picture, he's a lucky man. He's financially well-off, he has a beautiful and supportive wife, a lovely family of seven children, a political career that has featured comebacks and second and third chances that a lot of presidential candidates don't get... He's offered probably the most poignant comments of the race so far:

When I was a young man, I thought glory was the highest ambition, and that all glory was self-glory. My parents tried to teach me otherwise, as did the Naval Academy. But I didn't understand the lesson until later in life, when I confronted challenges I never expected to face.

In that confrontation I discovered that I was dependent on others to a greater extent than I had ever realized, but that neither they nor the cause we served made any claims on my identity. On the contrary, I discovered that nothing is more liberating in life than to fight for a cause that encompasses you, but is not defined by your existence alone. And that has made all the difference, my friends, all the difference in the world.

I do not seek the presidency on the presumption that I am blessed with such personal greatness that history has anointed me to save my country in its hour of need. I seek the presidency with the humility of a man who cannot forget that my country saved me.

About 99 percent of America's political leaders have "the good life" in a way Americans will never experience. (For that matter, I've been lucky enough to enjoy 'the good life' in a way most Americans don't.) Any political leader who offers comments in the vein of "poor me, poor me" ought to be kicked out of office for losing perspective and not recognizing how good they have it.

Mike Huckabee comes close to this when he complains he has no salary right now, and thus has to give paid speaking engagements to pay the mortgage. The NY Times notes:

Mr. Huckabee himself has never been rich, drawing a $74,000 salary as governor, though when he left office, he bought a house in Little Rock for $525,000. On his most recent federal financial disclosure form, for 2006, he valued his assets at between $318,000 and $895,000. He earned nearly $150,000 in book royalties and made approximately $50,000 in speaking honorariums that year. His highest speaking fee was $17,000.

And then we come to Michelle Obama, who suggests that her husband's success is her first reason to feel pride in America in her adult life. Others have addressed the numerous and obvious reasons for pride that easily fit the time period of "her adult life."

America hasn't been good to her? What, opportunities to go to Princeton, Harvard Law, working for top-shelf law firms and hospitals, sitting on the board of directors for a major Wal-Mart supplier — that's not enough?

Kaus wonders if it's an expression of jealousy of her husband. Either way, it's a strikingly ungracious remark, and she's certain to be asked about it in the near future.

But there's a contrast of attitudes Republicans can feel comfortable with:

McCain: I'm blessed to be here, and owe everything to my country.

Michelle Obama: Supporting my husband is the first decent thing this lousy country has done in a long time.

National Review Online

Good thing Michelle is not running for Pres

You are a hack. A hillary supporter posting links from the National Review Online?Too lazy to post the link or did you not want us to see all the Rush and Hannity banners?

1. Who cares where the article is from?2. Who cares that he's a Hillary supporter?

3. Who cares that he's a hack?

I don 't necessarily agree with everything in this article, but it's at least thoughtful. If you disagree with it's substance, why not state why, rather than simply berating the guy who posted it?

I'll get around to reading this closely later, but how are we supposed to take a seriously an article with the title, Contrasting John McCain and Michelle Obama?

OK Let me add to my "who cares" list: 4. Who cares what the title of the article is?

Substance is the only important factor. I've decided now I don't agree with the article, mainly because I think Michelle Obama misspoke rather than really expressed a lack of pride in America. But the article does make some important points, especially about McCain.

 

[NCCommish]

Contrasting John McCain and Michelle Obama

One of the best qualities of John McCain is his oft-expressed appreciation and gratitude for the opportunities America has given him, and the life he's been able to lead since a terrible ordeal.

Five and a half years in a POW camp could leave a man bitter and angry. Yet from every outward appearance, McCain seems to recognize that in the big picture, he's a lucky man. He's financially well-off, he has a beautiful and supportive wife, a lovely family of seven children, a political career that has featured comebacks and second and third chances that a lot of presidential candidates don't get... He's offered probably the most poignant comments of the race so far:

When I was a young man, I thought glory was the highest ambition, and that all glory was self-glory. My parents tried to teach me otherwise, as did the Naval Academy. But I didn't understand the lesson until later in life, when I confronted challenges I never expected to face.

In that confrontation I discovered that I was dependent on others to a greater extent than I had ever realized, but that neither they nor the cause we served made any claims on my identity. On the contrary, I discovered that nothing is more liberating in life than to fight for a cause that encompasses you, but is not defined by your existence alone. And that has made all the difference, my friends, all the difference in the world.

I do not seek the presidency on the presumption that I am blessed with such personal greatness that history has anointed me to save my country in its hour of need. I seek the presidency with the humility of a man who cannot forget that my country saved me.

About 99 percent of America's political leaders have "the good life" in a way Americans will never experience. (For that matter, I've been lucky enough to enjoy 'the good life' in a way most Americans don't.) Any political leader who offers comments in the vein of "poor me, poor me" ought to be kicked out of office for losing perspective and not recognizing how good they have it.

Mike Huckabee comes close to this when he complains he has no salary right now, and thus has to give paid speaking engagements to pay the mortgage. The NY Times notes:

Mr. Huckabee himself has never been rich, drawing a $74,000 salary as governor, though when he left office, he bought a house in Little Rock for $525,000. On his most recent federal financial disclosure form, for 2006, he valued his assets at between $318,000 and $895,000. He earned nearly $150,000 in book royalties and made approximately $50,000 in speaking honorariums that year. His highest speaking fee was $17,000.

And then we come to Michelle Obama, who suggests that her husband's success is her first reason to feel pride in America in her adult life. Others have addressed the numerous and obvious reasons for pride that easily fit the time period of "her adult life."

America hasn't been good to her? What, opportunities to go to Princeton, Harvard Law, working for top-shelf law firms and hospitals, sitting on the board of directors for a major Wal-Mart supplier — that's not enough?

Kaus wonders if it's an expression of jealousy of her husband. Either way, it's a strikingly ungracious remark, and she's certain to be asked about it in the near future.

But there's a contrast of attitudes Republicans can feel comfortable with:

McCain: I'm blessed to be here, and owe everything to my country.

Michelle Obama: Supporting my husband is the first decent thing this lousy country has done in a long time.

National Review Online

Good thing Michelle is not running for Pres

You are a hack. A hillary supporter posting links from the National Review Online?Too lazy to post the link or did you not want us to see all the Rush and Hannity banners?

1. Who cares where the article is from?2. Who cares that he's a Hillary supporter?

3. Who cares that he's a hack?

I don 't necessarily agree with everything in this article, but it's at least thoughtful. If you disagree with it's substance, why not state why, rather than simply berating the guy who posted it?

I'll get around to reading this closely later, but how are we supposed to take a seriously an article with the title, Contrasting John McCain and Michelle Obama?

Exactly. Why would you contrast the two in the first place?

Because contrasting McCain and his actual opponent isn't going so well.

 

[timschochet]

If I were Hillary Clinton (God forbid)! I would try to win classy. In the coming debate, I would try to stress foreign policy differences with Obama, and make the case (which she has not done effectively) that I was more prepared for coming world crisises. Here's what I would NOT do:

I would not raise the issue of Michelle Obama's gaffe.

I would not accuse Obama of plagiarism.

I would declare right now that I would not try to subvert the will of the people through Superdelegates, or the Michigan or Florida primary, or trying to change the allegience of already committed delegates. I would state: "I am committed to seeing a Democrat in the White House. I think I am the most qualified, but if the public chooses Obama, I will support that choice."

If she did all these things, she would garner a great deal of sympathy and approval. She might be competitive again, and even if she loses, she will remain a powerful figure in the Democratic party with the possible chance of running in the future.

Sadly for her, I suspect she will go all out in the other direction and do the opposite of everything I am reccommending. If so, I predict she will lose, but will go down kicking and screaming, destroying her reputation for all time.

 

[urbanhack]

If I were Hillary Clinton (God forbid)! I would try to win classy. In the coming debate, I would try to stress foreign policy differences with Obama, and make the case (which she has not done effectively) that I was more prepared for coming world crisises. Here's what I would NOT do:

How is she more prepared than Obama for a world crisis and what are their differences in foreign policy?

 

[timschochet]

If I were Hillary Clinton (God forbid)! I would try to win classy. In the coming debate, I would try to stress foreign policy differences with Obama, and make the case (which she has not done effectively) that I was more prepared for coming world crisises. Here's what I would NOT do:

How is she more prepared than Obama for a world crisis and what are their differences in foreign policy?

That's a fine question; I don't myself know the answer (I'm much more prepared about my own guy McCain.) But she stressed this earlier, for instance when she criticized Obama's willingness to meet with the leaders of Iran. She has implied all along she would take a more hard-headed approach. She needs to stress this, rather than the ugly things her campaign has been stressing of late.

 

[Orange Crush]

If I were Hillary Clinton (God forbid)! I would try to win classy. In the coming debate, I would try to stress foreign policy differences with Obama, and make the case (which she has not done effectively) that I was more prepared for coming world crisises. Here's what I would NOT do:

How is she more prepared than Obama for a world crisis and what are their differences in foreign policy?

That's a fine question; I don't myself know the answer (I'm much more prepared about my own guy McCain.) But she stressed this earlier, for instance when she criticized Obama's willingness to meet with the leaders of Iran. She has implied all along she would take a more hard-headed approach. She needs to stress this, rather than the ugly things her campaign has been stressing of late.

Clinton's camp has leaked excerpts from what they're calling a "major" speech she's going to give tomorrow in Ohio to contrast her with Obama. One of the key things she is going to talk about is how she's more prepared to be the Commander-In-Chief.I'm not sure she wins that when she and Obama actually debate, because all of her judgment calls on foreign policy that she's publicly made have shown that she was either wrong, or on the opposite side of the Democratic base (read Iraq, Iran, Pakistan).

 

[urbanhack]

If I were Hillary Clinton (God forbid)! I would try to win classy. In the coming debate, I would try to stress foreign policy differences with Obama, and make the case (which she has not done effectively) that I was more prepared for coming world crisises. Here's what I would NOT do:

How is she more prepared than Obama for a world crisis and what are their differences in foreign policy?

That's a fine question; I don't myself know the answer (I'm much more prepared about my own guy McCain.) But she stressed this earlier, for instance when she criticized Obama's willingness to meet with the leaders of Iran. She has implied all along she would take a more hard-headed approach. She needs to stress this, rather than the ugly things her campaign has been stressing of late.

But the left wants an open dialog with Iran and countries of the like instead of the "hard-headed" approach which is what the right represents.

 

[Eviloutsider]

CNN has a lead for Obama.

 

[timschochet]

If I were Hillary Clinton (God forbid)! I would try to win classy. In the coming debate, I would try to stress foreign policy differences with Obama, and make the case (which she has not done effectively) that I was more prepared for coming world crisises. Here's what I would NOT do:

How is she more prepared than Obama for a world crisis and what are their differences in foreign policy?

That's a fine question; I don't myself know the answer (I'm much more prepared about my own guy McCain.) But she stressed this earlier, for instance when she criticized Obama's willingness to meet with the leaders of Iran. She has implied all along she would take a more hard-headed approach. She needs to stress this, rather than the ugly things her campaign has been stressing of late.

But the left wants an open dialog with Iran and countries of the like instead of the "hard-headed" approach which is what the right represents.

True. But the left is not all of the Democrats. There are many Democrats out there with a more moderate or hardline approach to these issues. Look what happened with Lieberman last year: the left managed to defeat him in the primary, but then he won the fall election with the support of a majority of Democrats.

 

[NCCommish]

If I were Hillary Clinton (God forbid)! I would try to win classy. In the coming debate, I would try to stress foreign policy differences with Obama, and make the case (which she has not done effectively) that I was more prepared for coming world crisises. Here's what I would NOT do:

How is she more prepared than Obama for a world crisis and what are their differences in foreign policy?

That's a fine question; I don't myself know the answer (I'm much more prepared about my own guy McCain.) But she stressed this earlier, for instance when she criticized Obama's willingness to meet with the leaders of Iran. She has implied all along she would take a more hard-headed approach. She needs to stress this, rather than the ugly things her campaign has been stressing of late.

But the left wants an open dialog with Iran and countries of the like instead of the "hard-headed" approach which is what the right represents.

True. But the left is not all of the Democrats. There are many Democrats out there with a more moderate or hardline approach to these issues. Look what happened with Lieberman last year: the left managed to defeat him in the primary, but then he won the fall election with the support of a majority of Democrats.

He lied his ### off saying he had changed his position. And he won because of GOP support.

 

[aardball44]

MSNBC calling it now for OB.

 

[urbanhack]

CNN calling it for Obama!

 

[Kilgore Trout]

MSNBC calling it now for OB.

CNN calling it also, and McCain sure seems to think that Obama is the Democratic nominee.

 

[NCCommish]

MSNBC calling it now for OB.

CNN calling it also, and McCain sure seems to think that Obama is the Democratic nominee.

Big win in a very white, older voter, state.

 

[urbanhack]

Can't wait to hear her speech. What is she going to say now????

 

[Kilgore Trout]

Hillary is speaking

Ignoring Wisconsin results. If she loses Texas or Ohio, she needs to get the heck out of this race.