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Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:14:20 GMT

Good Thursday afternoon. OK...the nit-picky English professor is coming out in me. It's "privilege." SORRY! But, don't worry about it; I have to look it up all the time, and I'm supposed to know better! ;)

So, do we have a possible contempt of Congress citation down the road to look forward to for Turd Blossom? It sounds like it!

As far as our "esteemed" AG, I'm starting to believe that he might actually end up being some kind of sacrificial lamb for the administration and a way for Congress to look like they're actually being tough on someone; whether he is "eased out" by his boss or does the proverbial dive on a live grenade on his own is unknown. I base some of this on an interview I heard with Senator Joe Biden in hour #1 of today's DIANE REHM show. Senator Biden came right out and admitted that there isn't the will or the stomach in Congress for an impeachment battle over GW or our Dictator-Wanna-Be (GGGGRRRR....). I won't bore you all with the details of my personal reaction upon hearing that, but Congress is all over trying to kick Fredo to the curb. He thinks there's a much easier less time-consuming track to getting rid of Gonzales. So, like I've clumsily have tried to say, both sides win. The administration gets rid of an incompetent black eye, and Congress gets to look like they've exercised the "oversight" they should have been doing all along.

As usual, doing what's expedient wins over doing what's right. Ugh...

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Sue, West Allis, Wisconsin — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:18:11 GMT

Maybe no one will notice I was a no show at the Judiciary Hearing today.

Karl Rove
Hiding from Subpoenas
In an undisclosed location
On an undisclosed email server
This email will self destruct

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Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:23:01 GMT

HERE'S THE INTELLIGENCE!!

IT'S ALSO REVEALS YET ONE MORE LIE, ONE MORE COVER-UP AND YET ONE MORE TIME GEORGE W. BUSH AND HIS ADMINISTRATION ARE ACTIVELY PROTECTING THEIR BUDDIES AT THE EXPENSE OF AMERICANS – THE SAUDI ROYAL FAMILY!!

NEW YORK For years, polls have shown that very large numbers of Americans continue to falsely believe that some of the 9/11 hijackers came from Iraq. In reality, the overwhelming number hailed from the land of a U.S. ally, Saudi Arabia.

Now it turns out that Saudi Arabia is also home to the largest number of so-called "foreign fighters" in Iraq, despite administration efforts -- aided by many in the media -- to paint Iran and Syria as the main outside culprits there.

The Los Angeles Times reports today that according to a senior U.S. military officer and Iraqi lawmakers, about 45% of all foreign militants "targeting U.S. troops and Iraqi civilians and security forces are from Saudi Arabia." Only 15% are from Syria and Lebanon; and 10% are from North Africa. This is based on official U.S. military figures made available to newspaper by the senior officer.

Nearly half of the 135 foreigners in U.S. detention facilities in Iraq are Saudis, he said.
"Fighters from Saudi Arabia are thought to have carried out more suicide bombings than those of any other nationality, said the senior U.S. officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the subject's sensitivity," the Times' Ned Parker writes. "It is apparently the first time a U.S. official has given such a breakdown on the role played by Saudi nationals in Iraq's Sunni Arab insurgency.

"He said 50% of all Saudi fighters in Iraq come here as suicide bombers. In the last six months, such bombings have killed or injured 4,000 Iraqis.

"The situation has left the U.S. military in the awkward position of battling an enemy whose top source of foreign fighters is a key ally that at best has not been able to prevent its citizens from undertaking bloody attacks in Iraq, and at worst shares complicity in sending extremists to commit attacks against U.S. forces, Iraqi civilians and the Shiite-led government in Baghdad."

Yet hardly a word has been directed at Saudi Arabia (which also drew relatively little criticism after 9/11) by the White House and Pentagon. Some observers suggest the Saudis are happy to have militants leave, which alleviates some of the threats in-country.

"U.S. officials remain sensitive about the relationship," Parker explains. "Asked why U.S. officials in Iraq had not publicly criticized Saudi Arabia the way they had Iran or Syria, the senior military officer said, 'Ask the State Department. This is a political juggernaut.'

IMPEACH NOW!!

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Brenda Deltona FL — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:23:29 GMT

What a crock of Sh|t! A lie is purjury isn't it? I am so sick of it! It's looking like for sure it's all show! This however doesn't surprise me.. I'm just frustrated that all in all, they are just trying to appease us! If this goes any farther, and something is truely done that will surprise me! I hope they do!

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Simpliticus — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:31:40 GMT

Apparently and dreadfully there is a bridge for sale and it is not in Brooklyn but in Minneapolis. I hope that Mr. Bush will remember that Minneapolisians will not fire upon contractors who rebuild its infrastructure unlike Iraqis who will fire upon those same contractors in Baghdad. Something which Mr. Bush should take very special note!

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Jim — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:32:02 GMT

no need to cover the bridge collapse. there is already enough coverage of that. get back to the normal programming. otherwise people loose focus of what's going on in washington

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Holly — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:45:47 GMT

What Jim says

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Res Ipsa Loquitor — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:49:22 GMT

Krista, couldn't agree more.

"No stomach" for impeachment??? I'm a defense attorney. DOJ ALWAYS seems to have stomach enough to prosecute my clients. Even the 84 year old man who sold his morphine prescription to supplement his inadequate SS, and the man who has hospice care and less than 6 months to live, dying from cancer. Absolutely no discretion allowed. Prosecute everyone & throw them in prison. Just shows the inequality in the system once again. Needless to say, I'm very disappointed in those weenies in Congress. Politics drives all, whether its bridge repair, war or impeachment.

I found it fascinating that the FIRST public reaction from the WH re the Bridge was Snow-job proclaiming "its the state's responsibility!" Don't blame us -- its someone else's fault! Yet Ted Stevens got how many millions in federal funds to build his "Bridge to nowhere?"

Canada is looking better and better......

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Rocky Mountain Guy, Colorado — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:50:19 GMT

Sid Blumenthal has a pretty godd article of why Bush will NEVER let Alberto go over on salon.com if anyone is interested.....

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Brenda Deltona FL — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:51:54 GMT

Jim I agree. It's a tragic thing that happened, I feel sorry for those hurt and killed. I don't want to seem I'm not sympathetic but they don't have to spend 24/7 on this. An update once in awhile is fine. There are bigger fish to take care of or we will not have to worry about anything else in this country.

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Jamie, Disgusted American — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:52:40 GMT

I guess we all knew all of that already Krista, it was just the matter of Biden (or any one of those other cowards), coming out and saying it! On one hand you have several Republicans denouncing Bush & Co-until it comes time to vote. On the other, you have a bunch of Democrats that were elected because of or in spite of, the Republican congress, and they are a bunch of folks that have no plan on putting the money where their mouths are!

I hate to say I give up on our government, but I really do. Those that have the intelligence and the fight in them, don't have the Beltway 'power', nor are they running for President-hence, the don't get noticed. It's very sad.

We the people have spoken time and time again, and yet the school bully is still in power, doesn't play by the rules, and the principal lets him get away with it all. Sigh!

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Jamie, CV, CA — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:56:48 GMT

Jim & Holly: No offense, but this is just a note from the left side of the blog page-Countdown isn't just about politics-it's about news. Although this thread is about the politics, that isn't the only news happening.

"So here it is. Covering the big news, the small news, medium-sized and irregular, The News Hole strives to bring everything you love or hate about Countdown to the internets.

Your feedback and hate mail is encouraged."

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John R. McClenahan — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:00:06 GMT

I'm sure no ditto head, but "what Jim and Holly said".

let's not take our collective eye off the ball for one minute with these guys. They seem to know nothinng BUT all the tricks.

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Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:02:13 GMT

Hey, Res Ipsa Loquitor...your name is familiar to me... I believe I may have seen it in the writings of one Hunter S. Thompson, but I may be confused - easy to do to me these days. Is this week going as SLOOOWWWLLLYYY for anyone else as it is for me?! Any way, thanks for the kudos and good comments in your 2:49 pm post.

As the saying goes, whoever has the most toys (or $$$) wins...fat lotta good that does for us "normal" people.

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Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:09:26 GMT

My disgusted friend, Jamie (2:52 pm post), I know and understand what you mean about giving up on our government. I was thinking that today when I was signing and stuffing my latest round of letters to Congress. Why the f--- am I wasting time and spending money on all this?! I don't know; I'm going to keep going though and continue sending my letters. I think I've said this before, but I have to feel like I tried SOMETHING. Yep, I'm a naive doofus, but I'll be a naive doofus with a "clean" conscience.

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Wayne, TN — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:11:26 GMT

""No stomach" for impeachment??? I'm a defense attorney. DOJ ALWAYS seems to have stomach enough to prosecute my clients. Even the 84 year old man who sold his morphine prescription to supplement his inadequate SS"
Sounds like your clients could use a better attorney.
Morphine that ends up in a teenagers arm is just as deadly no matter where it comes from.
If you client sold his morphine he apparently didn't need it as much as his doctor thought he did.

The Bridge to nowhere sounds like an expensive project, until you take into account just how many people have died in ferry accidents, more than a few of those in Alaska.
Cold water kills in minutes.

No one seemed to get bent out of shape when they built the causway through the Florida Keys.

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bill hardman, East Greenwich, RI — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:15:55 GMT

Keith; please ask General Clark about his "third way"
plan for Iraq----outlined in statement before the House Armed Servcies Committee in July.
(that can be accessed at securingamerica.com)

thank you

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Sue, West Allis, Wisconsin — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:21:06 GMT

I must respectfully disagree with statements on other threads that we must ignore the political landscape in deference to the injuries and loss of life in Minneapolis. Sorry, but I can't and I won't.

We did that after 9/11. So did the media. And BushCo took full advantage of that to strip away our rights, establish a monarchy for himself, spend all our money, continue media consolidation, reduce or eliminate federal inspections and oversight, give no-bid contracts to political supporters, provide tax breaks to the richest of Americans and large corporations, turn our government into a partisan political machine, stifle dissent, start wars, and declare himself and his political operators above the law.

Never again.

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ek, mpls, mn — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:34:24 GMT

I may be a little biased here, but the Minneapolis story is less than 24 hours old, and it is indeed a big deal here.

Don't get me wrong guys, I'm with most of the regulars here most of the time, but this seems to be a perfect example of why we should be angry with those in charge who are wasting lives over there while we literally falling apart at the seams.

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Bunny Bump Beantown Mass. — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:36:01 GMT

Nard, your investigative reporting is great however your ability to understand your own information leads me to believe that there might just be a NOS leak some where in your trailer..Please have it checked for your own piece of mind. Of course there are factions from within Saudi Arabia that have their fingerprints all over the killings and turmoil in the M.E....THATS WHERE THE MONEY COMES FROM! Thats were business is done to fund the killers operations. (OBL?) HOWEVER...they are NOT connected to the Royal family OR the government of Saudi Arabia. If you have information to the contrary, lets see it. The Saudis are the 4th largest suppler of oil to the US, they are not stupid, they in no way would jeopardize this relationship for a few IED's. THINK!

Obama in 08, lets roll!

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FreedomOfInformationAct — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:39:32 GMT

Why did Keith spend the ENTIRE HOUR covering the bridge collapse? I can understand 15, 20 or even 30 minuted, but the whole hour!???

What perfect right-winged timing this had to prevent keith from focusing on the true tragedy occuring dailing in our nations capital. Cause a well timed event to pre-empt Keith from exposing the corrupt underbelly of the bush administration...well you cannot cover up all the lies forever 'loyal bushies'.

Impeach em all!

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Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:43:10 GMT

Sue, West Allis, Wisconsin (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 3:21 PM)

ek, mpls, mn (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 3:34 PM)

Thank you!!

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RM, NYC — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:43:38 GMT

EK, You have to understand the mind of the FAR left! Never give up slinging S**T, because SOME of it will stick!

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Jamie, you know where I am — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:45:41 GMT

You're not a doofus Krista-you're doing what you think is right-keep on rockin' in our still, somewhat, freeworld.

I'm fortunate to have two people that really do try: Barbara Boxer and Bob Filner, and try they do. I will keep supporting them, but they have an uphill battle.

The remedy for ME right now, is to print out a picture of the Dick and Bush and attach it to my new boxing/kickboxing bag and workout-it may not acommplish anything in DC, but it will make me feel a whole lot better.:)

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Bob Minsch, Yalaha, FL — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:45:58 GMT

Someone ask Senator Ted Stevens if he is ready to donate his #250-300 million for a bridge to nowhere to help repair some of the existing bridges that need maintenance before more of them come crashing down.

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Scott Copeland, Naples, Florida — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:47:04 GMT

"No one seemed to get bent out of shape when they built the causway through the Florida Keys. "

That's because anybody not a moron knows there are quite a few more than 50 people living in the Florida Keys, which is exactly how many people Steven's "bridge to nowhere" was going to serve.

I do give you credit for not mentioning Sandy Berger though.

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nanalinda, San Antonio, TX — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:49:14 GMT

Sue, I'm with you. I think it's sinful that we have to keep our eyes on the D.C. ball all the time.
We shouldn't have to feel guilty about having to do this, but these reprobates will take and use anything they can to silence any criticism of any action or inaction they take.
They've neither earned nor deserved our trust.
Unlike the current administration we can & do manage to tackle multiple problems in our everyday lives.
My prayers go out to those who have lost their lives.

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jen,il — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:56:54 GMT

The bridge story is the most important story in America today because it can happen anywhere. What all the bush tax cuts have done is shrink money for things republicans consider big government. Things like inspectors, and infrastructure. They have spent the last 6years privatizing everything they can and shifting federal expenses to states. States cannot afford the federal highway system or the SCHIP program for childrens health care. Americans need to decide what is worth paying for, a strong infrastructure and childrens health care or war and the private contracts that have left New Orleans a wreck and made a half dozen cronies wealthy.

It is time to take the power of government away from people who don't believe in government.

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Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:02:37 GMT

In my opinion, this IS the type of leader our country needs!!

Senator Obama does understand the catastrophes, devastation and trauma created by George W. Bush, he does understand our global morality is shattered, he does understand our credibility amongst the community of nations has been crushed, he does understand our brave men and women must never be betrayed and must removed from Iraq, he does understand how George W. Bush has created an atmosphere of arrogance, and finally, he DOES understand he needs "we the people" to accomplish his goals!!

A letter from Senator Obama:

“Dear Pam,

America must stop fighting the wrong war and start fighting the war we need to win:

After September 11th, we had a calling to write a new chapter in American history.

Americans were united. Our friends around the world stood shoulder-to-shoulder with us. We had the opportunity to devise new strategies, build new alliances, safeguard our values, and serve a just cause.

If only we had seized that opportunity.

Unfortunately, we did not finish the job against al Qaeda in Afghanistan. We did not capture or kill Osama bin Laden. And this administration drove us into war on the wrong battlefield with no appreciation of how many enemies we would create and no plan for how to get out.

Now, six years later, we are overdue for a major change of course in our foreign policy. America must stop fighting the wrong war and start fighting the war we need to win.

The next president must end the war in Iraq, refocus on Afghanistan and the Taliban resurgence, and pressure Pakistan to root out al Qaeda once and for all.

Most importantly, the next president must make sure that Osama bin Laden and al Qaeda’s core leadership are captured or killed. If Pakistan or any other nation won't act against bin Laden and his cohorts, we will.

Sign on to my plan and spread the word.”

I WISH YOU THE BEST OF LUCK SENATOR OBAMA!!

barackobama.com/newleadership

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C. Williams, Mpls., MN — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:03:18 GMT

I do think that mentioning how the Bush administration is already shoving Gov. Pawlenty under the bus is worth mentioning. Considering that he helped run his campaign in MN in the last election and gentlemanly stepped aside when the Veep wanted Norm Coleman to run for Senator instead of him, you would think that he would try to help out a fellow Republican Governor.

Oh, that's right. It's been rumored that McCain would have liked him for Vice-President. Bushy doesn't like him, either.

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Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:12:10 GMT

EK, my thoughts are with you and everyone affected by this horrific accident. I hope you or no one you know or care about were directly affected.

If I were in MN, I wouldn't be concerned about much else, either. Distance changes perspective; please don't interpret this statement to mean I don't care, but it's human nature, sadly, to compartmentalize and prioritize events.

Once again, my thoughts are with you.

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Dave, Olympia, WA — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:21:19 GMT

The bridge collapse does not need to be covered on every news channel all day and all night. All too often, national cable news networks cover local news as if it affects all of us around the country. Whenever there is a car being chased by police, the national networks show it live. While the bridge event is a tragedy for Minneapolis, it does not need extended coverage on a national cable news network, let alone ALL OF THEM.

The current state of government in this country deserves more coverage and analysis than has already been given.

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Carol, Long Valley NJ — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:25:04 GMT

It's less disrespectful to be political on this page, than it was on the 'bridge' pages.

Have at it. And no Wayne TN, I still don't care what you think.

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olbermannrocks — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:25:34 GMT

update please

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C A, Tuscaloosa, Al — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:27:03 GMT

Sue: No one is saying ignore the political landscape but it is just as ludicrist to blame only Bush and this administration for the bridge tragedy as it is for Michael Savage to blame the Dems for Justice Robert's seizure. Bridges, highways and other infrastructure issues nationwide, statewide and municipalwide have been neglected for years under both republican and democratic administrations who have failed to maintain the same due to poor money management policies. Sure, Bush and his administratiion could have pumped more money into these problems rather than into Iraq, but so too could have other administrations over the years versus their spending priorities. Additionally, repairs, replacements and the like are only as good as the contractors who are awarded the bids and we all know how both Republicans and Dems award such contracts, cronism and favors rather than to those who would ensure better quality of work. The poor maintenance of the infrastructure is not solely a Republican or Democratic issue but a problem that both political parties and administrations are responsible for. And that also applies to some Governors and Mayors. So one can certainly call Bush on this Iraq mess and many other issues where telling the truth and providing leadership appears to have evaded him and his administration, but to only blame Bush and just the current political lanscape for the poor infrastructure conditions in this country is just a bit unrealistic and over the top.

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Brenda Deltona FL — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:27:04 GMT

Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 3:09 PM)
Krista, it's at least knowing you are trying and not giving up.. I've given up and then I think to myself, I have to try over and over again.
I feel in order to do anything we have to show these people we mean business by going September 15, for gawd sakes carpool or something tell friends that you know who feel as you do.. that's what we are doing, cause otherwise we couldn't do it by ourselves.. We have a right to be very angry, but still keep our wits about us.. Krista if it helps you then keep doing what you are. At least you are doing more than some are.. and if it all goes down, you can say I tried and should have a clear conscience! I know I will! Cheers Sweets!

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Brenda Deltona FL — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:29:24 GMT

Sue, West Allis, Wisconsin (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 3:21 PM)
KUDOS!!!

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Rocky Mountain Guy, Colorado — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:30:16 GMT

Pam, I can't express my appreciation enough for your informative posts! I worked as a civilian contractor on a defense contract for the USAF from '86 through to '93 and was surprised to learn of the seething hatred the Saudi's have for the United States. Whenever an Airman returned home from being stationed in Saudi Arabia they were all to a man, relating stories of the difficulties of living in a Monarchy. They hate us, and it's not because of our "freedoms" it's because of a country called Isreal. Don't misunderstand me I believe we should stand by Isreal (although some of their actions have left me shaking my head) because Isreal is a model of Democratic process in the Middle East. In Saudi Arabia your phone calls are monitored, all mail coming or going is read and sometimes even censored. Women are not considered equals, no wonder the Sauds and tbe Bush family are so close. They have so much in common. If we let these neocons keep grabbing unprecidented powers our phone calls we be monitored, oh wait, they already are, we are the ones going to be living in a Monarchy! Oh yeah, you can't have booze in Saudia Arabia either. No wonder those people are so pissed off.

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Carol, Long Valley NJ — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:30:50 GMT

From my best source -- google and wikipedia.

Res ipsa loquitur is a legal term from the Latin meaning literally, "The thing itself speaks" but is more often translated "The thing speaks for itself". ...

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Carol, Long Valley NJ — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:40:54 GMT

On another note, I got my official email notification from Dow Jones.

Dear Dow Jones Customer:

Dow Jones has some very exciting news to share. As you may have heard, Dow Jones announced Wednesday that its board of directors has agreed to a merger with News Corp. With a definitive merger agreement in hand, the next step is for all shareholders of Dow Jones to vote on the proposed merger.

One thing remains unchanged – our focus on you, our customer. Our business operations will continue as usual in the weeks and months ahead and your sales team will be communicating with you regularly with any new developments. Our global sales teams remain committed to being your advocates and advisors. We will continue to develop rich, award-winning, job-specific products to help professionals and organizations drive productivity, and therefore organizational competitive advantage, every day. These offerings, built on the indispensable content and technology assets of Dow Jones, will be further strengthened by the global reach and resources of the News Corp. franchise.

During and after the merger with News Corp. our goal is to continue to produce real benefits for you and your organization. Our commitment to innovation and creativity is stronger than ever as we develop new ways to deliver the business news and information you need when, where and how you need it.

Over the last several months leading up to this acquisition, Dow Jones has garnered a lot of media attention. One message that has been highlighted in the press around the world is the unique value of premium business news and information. Strategically, this merger positions Dow Jones for continued growth and further investment in our trusted business news and information products and services. Dow Jones customers base their business decisions in significant part on its reporting. News Corp. and Dow Jones know well the journalistic and business rationale for retaining the highest standards of journalism for which Dow Jones is – and will continue to be – renowned.

I hope you share our enthusiasm about our merger. Thank you for your business and continued confidence in Dow Jones.

As always, I welcome your comments via e-mail.
Best regards,

Clare Hart
President, Enterprise Media Group
Executive Vice President, Dow Jones & Company

"Clare Hart" <factiva1@factiva-us1.ed10.net>

my take -- renowned or infamous.

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junebug — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:41:38 GMT

Res Ipsa Loquitur: "a thing that speaks for itself." Love your screen name.

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1madMarine, Roanoke VA — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:48:16 GMT

Response to Wayne, TN 3:11pm post

Wayne post:

The Bridge to nowhere sounds like an expensive project, until you take into account just how many people have died in ferry accidents, more than a few of those in Alaska.
Cold water kills in minutes.

No one seemed to get bent out of shape when they built the causway through the Florida Keys.

My response:

If you had a clue you would be dangerous. Who do you think you are kidding? I normally refuse to have a battle of wits with an unarmed person, but you have tipped my hand. So here it goes, bend over and take it.

First of all, just because someone sells their prescription to pay for food and shelter does not mean they do not need it. It’s a little thing called survival, you can survive without morphine but you cannot survive without food. Even my 8 year old son knows that.

Second, if you look at the actual statistics for the "bridge to nowhere" it would replace a ferry that serviced a couple thousand civilians a year. The ferry only goes one place, to an airport that is mainly used for shipping goods and service personnel. So my thought is the companies that use it the most should pay for the bridge.
And if you look at how many people die from Ferry accidents you would see it is a minor risk, more people die from toxic waste dumped in our environment by the same companies that want us to pay for their bridge, so put that in your pipe and smoke it.

The bridge at Florida Keys services several thousand people every couple of hours. So you’re obviously biased and fact-less piece is wrong on so many levels that it isn't even funny. You are just like the administration, you take an one case, twist the facts so they meet your point of view, then tuck and run like the coward you are.

If you want I can destroy several other of your fantasies, just let me know what you think and I will gladly tell you why you are wrong.

I think people like you should be seen and not heard; children have more common sense than you do. When you look at "W" I bet you feel proud for having voted for him don’t you. That is so sad, do you actually believe the slop you spew, or are you smarter than we think you are.

One pissed Marine

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Karen, Springfield, Ohio — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:48:31 GMT

Just want to mention that Keith's broadcasting during the bridge collapse coverage was stellar. I knew the man was smart and opinionated, but wow! I didn't realize how good he would be in a situation like that.

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B.A. Buddusky — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 20:49:17 GMT

Sue, West Allis, Wisconsin (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 3:21 PM)We did that after 9/11. So did the media. And BushCo took full advantage of that to strip away our rights, establish a monarchy for himself, spend all our money, continue media consolidation, reduce or eliminate federal inspections and oversight, give no-bid contracts to political supporters, provide tax breaks to the richest of Americans and large corporations, turn our government into a partisan political machine, stifle dissent, start wars, and declare himself and his political operators above the law.
Never again.

I'll concur on that one.My posts haven't been coming up so maybe I have been censored.I'm okay by that . You guys and K.O. are much more articulate than I on any day of the week and Pam twice on Sunday.

I sure everyone has noticed this but one side of that bridge was different than the other.The before of the collapsed side looked lie it was weaker and only held in place by steel beams,where the other side was both steel and concrete.The other side was probably a two way bridge at one time?I'm no engineer but you can see
they were working on the side that collapsed or why the porta potty in the middle of one span.

My Prayers go out to those Folks and their Families.
In the end we are all hurt when these things happen,the ones that are controllable and happen do to Insanity and Fear the compassion their is Heartfelt by us ALL as Well.

K.O. you did a fine job last night.

I have to listen to this and read scripts on the net and am glad you all are there.What the heck I was radio listener for many
years and my wife still reads to me.Trust me I am older than you but politically we are pretty much on the same page.

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C A, Tuscaloosa, Al — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:02:11 GMT

Jamie/Disgusted: Well I certainly know how you feel. I have said over and over again on this blog that the career politicians on both sides of the isle are either spineless, corrupt and/or owned by special interests. And I still contend there efforts to gain higher political office is based more on self-interest than other-interest (that goes for both republicans and dems). If other-interest some would go way out on a limb to be different and to truly take the chances necessary to represent what the people want and desire rather than playing to whatever group they happen to be speaking to at the time. If those seeking legal status here dont like the proposals on illegal immigration that a majority of Americans support then someone needs to have the guts to say this is the way it is going to be. If those who want to continue this Iraq conflict don't like the proposals to get us out of Iraq as most American's desire then that person needs to be able to say this is the way it is going to be. If the NAACP, Religious Right, AARP, NRA you name it organization are opposed to the direction of those policies that the majority of Americans feel is appropriate for our country then we need leaders and representatives with the guts and strength to tell these groups this is the way it is goin to be rather than playing to each group when speaking to them. But none do. Some have trhe moments but these turn out to be barks rather than bites. Many in here strongly support only the Dems and a few called trolls only support the Republicans. Unfortunately in both cases these folks just don't get it. Unless the entire process can somehow be changed and the common man / woman can have more say in our affairs we will continue to be under the poor and sel-interested representation of those with money regardless if Dem or Republican. Money talks and those with it run this country. I don't care what political party they belong too. I have been supportive of Bill Clinton and like him and even knowing that he fits this same mold as the rest, at least the man is able to talk and give good speeches and eulogies so he is interesting to listen too. I know those are not the core reasons one should have for supporting someone but hell, what else do we have. What else will we have. At least get someone in office that likes to fool around a little so we can giggle and talk about it at the water coolers the next day, who can play the sax fairly well on the Tonight show, does not have a damn dog named Barney, and who has that slick smile and can keep you fairly interested more then a quarter of the way through a State of the Union Address.

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Carol, Long Valley NJ — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:11:39 GMT

I stumbled across this by accident -- http://keitholbermann.org/ko_forum/ has any one else been to this site?

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Caveat Emptor of Oregon — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:15:15 GMT

I remember when Bill Clinton was savaged for his "parsing" of the word "is". Now, we have an Attorney General who is "parsing" what he was discussing with the select senate committee. "Parsing" is a political attribute whether a democrat or republican engages in it. So, who has stooped to the lows of Clinton cannot condemn the very fabric of that gesture if it is engaged by those who make such claims. Gonzales must go if any semblance of law is still maintained in this teetering lawless country, Specter!

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Kevin, Sugarland Texas — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:19:32 GMT

Update: Bush is arming the Sunni in Iraq and selling weapons to the Saudis. I guess we've picked sides in the civil war.

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Countdown — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:20:26 GMT

We understand your impatience when the sight is not updated as frequently as you like, but the "update" comment doesn't help. We update as often as we can and never leave comments intentionally un-posted. If we haven't updated in a while it's because we're busy working on the show. Thanks for your patronage and your patience.

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doobee, IL — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:24:07 GMT

Countdown team - in covering the bridge collapse, some nuances to consider:

In the debate about who's responsible, this is an interstate bridge, so it's not totally in the hands of local or state officials nor totally at their mercy for funding. States' DOTs have to qualify for Fed funds, so they may or may not have enough money to repair their infrastructure, and obviously king george has not invested in infrastructure (whether his predecessors did or not).

Also, while "user" taxes on gas, vehicles, tires, etc. are supposed to go to state DOT's construction and maintenance, many state legislatures have tapped transportation funds and swept their monies into the states' general funds. Illinois and Tennessee are two I know of for sure. Ask the governors how much money that could have been spent repairing crumbling bridges was spent shoring up medicaid programs.

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scott henderson nv — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:26:12 GMT

We are falling apart at the seams because a bridge failed?? This is an example of hyperbole and why y'all have no credibility.

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Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:31:43 GMT

So here's Republican Senator Arlen Specter's verdict on Alberto Gonzales' testimony, delivered during this morning's Senate Judiciary Committee hearing with Karl Rove's aide Scott Jennings, who showed up clad in his muzzle!! Karl Rove, once again, thumbed his nose at Congress and “we the people”!!

"Gonzales, he says, sought to mislead the committee, but should not be investigated for perjury, because his testimony, while misleading, doesn't rise to that standard."

- Ok, Specter, should Gonzo be forced to stand in the middle of The Rose Garden while everyone chants "Pants on Fire"? Does that meet your standard for punishment?

"Reading from a Supreme Court opinion on the statute of perjury, which said that a witness cannot be convicted of perjury simply because he is a 'wily witness' who 'shrewdly' evades the questioner by speaking "the literal truth," Specter said that that's what we have here.

- Look Specter, Gonzalez' IQ is not only in the negative, he's a liar!! Shrews you say? No, it is you attempting to be "shrewd"!!

Gonzales is certainly "wily" and sought to mislead -- but he spoke, in Specter's judgment, "the literal truth."

- That's it Specter, a 'wily witness' dismissal? Ok, let him be “crafty” in a prison cell, I’ll donate some yarn!! And, NO ONE believes he spoke "the literal truth", including you, so just shut up!!

But "just because it's not perjury," Specter said, "doesn't mean it's the way that the highest ranking legal officer in the United States ought to respond to a Senate inquiry." Specter went on to say that he thought that the conclusion of the committee's investigation of the U.S. attorney firings would be to "end the tenure of Attorney General Alberto Gonzales." When that conclusion will come, however, no one knows.

- Newsflash - No, Specter, you cannot split this hair!! You cannot have it both ways and it is YOU who is attempting to be a "wily politician" and you're not fooling anyone!!

RESIGN!! You’re a treasonous co-conspirator!!

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Bunny Bump Beantown Mass. — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:36:16 GMT

Real news and real debate are not allowed here...OK its your site..pretty lame though......I have NEVER attempted to post a single word of hate, I have never attack one of the posters personally or their opinion, I HAVE questioned their opinion, content, validity and intent. There are a few posters at this site that are given much latitude to call others "idiots", "stupid" and use words like "shit", "bastards" and worse. If this is your idea of fairness in the marketplace of ideas then so be it, it shows and so do your ratings. Good night and your actions will determine your luck.

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Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:40:09 GMT

I do give you credit for not mentioning Sandy Berger though.
Scott Copeland, Naples, Florida (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 3:47 PM)

Classic Scott, just classic!!

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Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:48:40 GMT

Bunny Bump Beantown Mass. (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 5:36 PM)

You are now a liar also!! You have mocked my name, Senator Obama's name, insulted the Arab culture, insulted the Islamic faith, insulted an entire region of the world yet you have the audacity to post this?

Read what I posted to you on the fourth thread "hop along"!!

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Dominic Grillo — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:52:27 GMT

Keith: Many of president Bush's allies seem to contact ALZHEIMER.Attorney general Alberto Gonzales, can't recall a lot of things, Vice President Dick Cheney also can't recall,now I just saw Donald Rumsfeld , at the Tillman hearing and he can't recall . Well Keith I'm seventy Five and Can't recall another President that made so many bad decisions.Is it possible that I'm coming down with Alzheimer.

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jen,il — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:56:44 GMT

Kevin sugerland tx- You are almost right bush is selling arms to the saudis who are sunni and arming sunnis in Iraq but he is also backing Maliki and the shite government in Iraq. We haven't picked sides we are arming both side guaranteeing perpetual war for profit. Also we have lost 200,000 guns in Iraq and we never secured the saddams weapons depots. Iran has not provided anywhere near the amount of weapons for this war that we have. bush and co. have no intrest in ever ending this war. They are all getting filthy rich off of it and they haven't even got the oil field up to producing at full capacity.

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Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 22:03:18 GMT

Roger/Oakland just posted this on First Read:

Here's something to ponder. From http://hughhewitt.townhall.com/g/d4ca0ff6-5992-43f7-9169-87a9239ab94e: "President Bush invited ten talk hosts into the Oval Office for an hour of conversation today --Glenn Beck, Bill Bennett, Neal Boortz, Scott Hennon, Laura Ingraham, Lars Larson, Mark Levin, Michael Medved, Janet Parshall and me. This was an off-the-record conversation, and so I won't be quoting the president.

"I will say on today's show that I am confident about the course of the war and about the momentum in Iraq, as well of the president's absolute commitment to doing right by the troops and his concern for every lost and wounded soldier and their families. President Bush's command of the details and his broad view of the conflict is reassuring, and among my comments to him was the wish that he found more opportunities to engage in long interviews that would allow the American public to see that grasp and that commitment."

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Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 22:17:16 GMT

Bunny Bump Beantown Mass. (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 5:36 PM)

Your arrogance and bigotry speaks for itself "Bunny"!! Enjoy your hate filled rhetoric!!

"Obama da bomma" says Nard....The brilliant insight of posters here far exceed the knowledge of all of your guests combined. A plethora of untaped talent.

Lets roll, Obama da bomma is ready to kick some ass.
Bunny Bump Beantown Mass (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 3:28 AM)

Oh Brenda...to be young again.....Obama: Mahmoud Ahmadinajad hows that uranium enrichment thing going?...MA: Great Obama, we have 5,000 centrifuges running now and expect to have 20,000 more on line in a month or two. BHO: Uhh...you know when you said that as soon as possible you were going to wipe Israel off the face of the earth, you were just kidding....right? MA: NO! BHO: Oh come on Mahmoud lets talk about it....that would not be cool man. MA: Allah demands it be done..all praise be to Allah. BHO: I know you Mahmoud..wink, wink....you funny guy you, you would not do that. MA: All praise be to Allah. BHO Thinking to himself...crap...what do I do now? HILLERY!
Bunny Bump Beantown Mass (Sent Wednesday, August 01, 2007 9:08 PM)

I can't belive what I am reading.......One word from the great Obama and doves turn into war-mongers. Whats wrong with you people? Nard....straighten these people out!
Bunny Bump Beantown Mass (Sent Wednesday, August 01, 2007 1:19 PM)

No “hop along”, it is those like you, who reek of arrogance and bigotry, which is the foremost reason MANY hate Americans AND America.

You are part of the systematic problem and not in the slightest way part of the solution!!

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Bunny Bump Beantown Mass. — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 22:17:25 GMT

WRONG! Pam, I referred to you as "Nard" not "Nards" I use ONLY parts of your name...NEVER added to it. Obama the same way I have referred to him as "BHO" his initials, I have called him "Obama", I have called him "B Hussein Obama" and "Hussein Obama" again NEVER adding to his name in any way. When he said in a speech that he would bomb certain country's under certain conditions I then referred to him as "Obama da bomma". NEVER, NEVER, NEVER have I included "malice" of ANY kind, OR HATE, NEVER mention race or bigitory of any kind. I am however responsible for sarcasm, levity, self serving senseless posts and stupidity................GUILTY! PS.(Check my posts...I never respond to specific personal criticism of my posts or point of view from you or anyone else, I expect your point and laugh at it...my choice.)

Obama in 08, lets roll!

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Dave — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 22:23:11 GMT

To the Dailey Whiner, concerning the wrongful acts of putting drugs on the street, where was all this indignation when papa Bush was trading drugs so he could arm some war in central america. This was MUCH larger scale for a purpose MUCH less forgivable. Republiecans were more than happy to look the other way then. This is still wrong but some slack should be shown.

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Dave — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 22:29:28 GMT

to RMNYC, when one flings S**t at something that is primarly composed of said material, and it does score a bulls eye, it is hadly noticeable due to the fact that they are so full of it.

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awacobud — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 22:31:55 GMT

It suddenly came to me today that, in this particular situation and "era", there is a vital and necessary question that should be being publicly and repeatedly posed to every Democratic Presidential Candidate, a question that should become a "litmus test" in the same way and to the same extent that Conservatives/Republicans have used such things.

The question is this: "Are you willing, and do you pledge and promise, from the beginning of your administration and term in office, to authorize and/or to support federal criminal investigations into all possible criminal matters involving members of the current executive branch (elected, appointed and/or civil service)with respect to any act, activity or conspiracy that may have occured prior to January 20, 2009?"

Given the unfortunate propensities being displayed on the part of weak Congressional leaders currently in power (who are likely to stay in power), and, given the more or less historical propensity of Presidents to "look forward" and not allow their predecessors to be held accountable, the referenced question should be asked relentlessly.

It is clear that the current administration's "gameplan" is to "run out the clock". This gameplan clearly assumes business as usual going forward, in that it is assumed that future administrations will not be aggressive in enforcing the law against prior political and governmental "operatives".

And, it is quite possible (in fact, I think probable) that the Decider, the man who as Governor never saw a clemency plea worthy of action, even for clearly potentially innocent or mentally-deficient inmates, will astonish folks with the length and breadth the list of his 11th hour pardons--and he will do so precisely because of this potential, but historically unlikely, threat.

But, he won't get them all, and there will still be some out there (although, then, of course, they will be labled small-fry, as in "we can't go after the small fry after letting the big fish go scot free.")

But, to maintain our system, we must go after them, small or big, and they must be investigated completely, and, if appropriate, prosecuted.

Take this to the bank: any Democratic Presidential Candidate who isn't willing to make such a promise and pledge (and then act on it), is making public that they are just as willing and capable of ignoring and undermining our system of laws as the current cynical bunch.

Shame on us if we let that happen without at least a challenge and appropriate notoriety.

We need to learn to ask the right questions, and to begin to hold government individuals (elected, appointed and employed) accountable--both for their actions and for their culpable inaction.

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Richard — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 22:39:56 GMT

Après moi, le deluge: greetings from The Alone Star State. Down here in Austin we have always known the reality behind the smug, simpering mug of loyal-unto-death Bush family retainer Al “Tio Taco” Gonzales: that he has never tried a case in open court IN HIS ENTIRE CAREER; the multiple local DUI arrests of then-Governor Bush’s twins that he had quashed and kept out of the Austin media as Travis County District Court Judge and later Texas Secretary of State (between three and six, depending on who y’all talk to) and above all else, enabling the Presidential aspirant Governor to escape jury duty in a 1996 Travis County DUI trial, thus avoiding public acknowledgement of Smirky McFlightsuit’s own DUI conviction.

Now, as Sydney Blumenthal writes in Salon.com today, this vile, dissembling, transparently-clueless sycophant is the last splintering bulwark standing between The Decider, Rove, Cheney and utter disaster. His cringe-worthy performance on the Hill last week must have them very scared indeed. He is the malfunctioning firewall, the flimsy, dry-rotted plywood door to a closet bursting at the seams with years of Bushivek skeletons and 3,660 rotting American corpses of a much more recent vintage.

Does anyone remember Nixon AG John Mitchell? This war-criminal cabal would do well to do so, because to quote another, much more intelligent tyrant whose hubris brought him to a bad end, "all you have to do is kick in the door and the whole rotten structure will come tumbling down."

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LT in MD — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 22:48:37 GMT

Krista, I wanted to echo your response about wanting to give up on the government yet knowing you have to do what you can..for your own conscience if for nothing else.

This train of thought brings to mind the classic quote from Albert Einstein which is so very appropriate for the times we live in: "The world is a dangerous place to live. Not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don't do anything about it."

And then I ask myself, what can I do? Well, this week and for the forseeable future, I'm going to help put together care packages for soldiers in Iraq. I am going to vote in every election-state, local and national, from now until I can no longer pull a lever. I am not going to change the world, but I will sleep at night.

It really amazes me that the criminals running our government and the do-nothing's in Congress who stand aside while over 200 years of laws, procedure/precedents and sound institutional practices are tossed aside and trampled in a little over six years.. How are those people able to sleep the sleep of the righteous?

Peace to Us All

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Jamie-Over and Out! — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 22:54:24 GMT

'Why did Keith spend the ENTIRE HOUR covering the bridge collapse? I can understand 15, 20 or even 30 minuted, but the whole hour!???

What perfect right-winged timing this had to prevent keith from focusing on the true tragedy occuring dailing in our nations capital. Cause a well timed event to pre-empt Keith from exposing the corrupt underbelly of the bush administration...well you cannot cover up all the lies forever 'loyal bushies'.

Impeach em all!
FreedomOfInformationAct (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 3:39 PM)'

WTF? You ARE kidding-right? 'True tragedy?' My God, is isn't a 'true' tragedy when people are flung to their deaths just driving down the freeway?

I despise just about everything this administration has done and continues to do. I despise the fact that my brother, SIL & nephew are serving in Iraq right now, but guess what people? THAT is NOT the f**king news happening in this country or the world.

To say I'm disappointed by some of the comments on here, would be an understatement. Is the AG going to suddenly fess up? Nope. Are Bush & Dick going to suddenly do the jobs they were appointed to do and discontinue shredding our Constitution? Nope.

A TRUE tragedy did happen, and you people are so freakin worried that somehow, someway something is going to change in DC for 24 damn hours, and that covering the news of a TRAGEDY will somehow give the neocons the upperhand.

This is the Countdown NEWSHOLE-not politics 24/7. As I posted earlier and will post again the nice little blurb that you can all see on the left hand side of your computer screen:

"ABOUT THE NEWS HOLE
It's the new award-winning blog* from the cast and crew of the award-winning television news hour** "Countdown with Keith Olbermann."

We heard about this whole "blogosphere" business from Tom DeLay, and came to the immediate realization that we too, "needed to become involved" in it.

So here it is. Covering the big news, the small news, medium-sized and irregular, The News Hole strives to bring everything you love or hate about Countdown to the internets.

Your feedback and hate mail is encouraged."

Have a nice life folks. I pray that should tragedy ever befall you, that it isn't ignored for politics the way you want this bridge collapse to be.

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Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 22:55:46 GMT

Rocky Mountain Guy, Colorado (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 4:30 PM)

Thank you and I could not agree with your summation more!!

PEACE!!

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Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 23:03:29 GMT

awacobud (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 6:31 PM)

Excellent and I agree with you 100%!! Each candidate should be asked the questions you posed and each candidate must be willing to prosecute this criminal administration - top to bottom!!

THANK YOU!!

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Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 23:25:32 GMT

LT, Brenda, and Jamie, thank you SO MUCH for your support; Lord, I sound like the Bartles & James commercial - remember those ads?! Seriously, those thoughts mean so much coming from you. I'm going to remember what you said when I'm signing letters, sealing envelopes, and paying for postage.

Once again, THANK YOU!

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Todd, New Orleans, LA — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 23:31:09 GMT

Res Ipsa Loquitur re: Canada. Already making plans. See you there.

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Kimberly, CA — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 23:46:35 GMT

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen: We (those of us smart enought to realize we're getting screwed twelve ways from Sunday) are absolutely right in how disgusted, angry, frustrated and used we feel.

I for one, would like to be proactive and do something about it. Our representatives won't do what we're asking them "they haven't got the stomachs for it"... so what other resources do we have for recourse?

Come'on... let's think!!!! We are strong and out number them! What can we do, how can we effect the most change in the quickest way possible? where should we strike? Let's get a forum going for brainstorming ideas that we can actually implement!

what do you say?

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Keith C. — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 23:51:13 GMT

Please, anything except for more bridge coverage--26 hours straight is too much!

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ROZm, los angeles — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 00:18:43 GMT

the more the shrubbery refuses to allow members of his administration testify, the more we should be concerned about what they are really hiding, what evil they have done that we do not know yet.
and they've sealed or destroyed administration records.
how in the he-- could any american vote for the shrubbery in 2004? what kind of american would vote for them?
never in the history of the union has a president & his administration acted in such undemocratic, unconstitutional ways, so undermined the essence of this nation.
the founders must be rolling over in their graves.

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LT in MD — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 00:43:13 GMT

Once again, THANK YOU! Krista Swisher

No, Thank you Krista. Your posts have made me laugh and made me learn quite a lot. Good luck on another round of letters to our stomachless govt. wimps. We're supposed to refer to Congress er men, as "Honorable" right? HA! Double HA!

Larry Flint has more integrity than all of Congress..at least he admits to what he is.

Kimberly, CA I think your idea for a forum is an excellent one..but I think this blog space would be a little difficult to keep one going on. Maybe some of the regulars like Pam, B A, Brenda, Todd (where ya been Todd?), Krista or Jaime can advise if there is a discreet way to make contact outside of here.

Again, thanks for your uplifting words Krista. It warms the uh, cockles? of my wittle heart to know anything I wrote had meaning for someone.

In the immortal words of Patsy and Edina: "Cheers Thanks a Lot! (To you all)

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C.R. — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 00:52:11 GMT

I'll tell you why those democrats won't impeach me or any other member of my team, and why that red hen peloci took impeachment of the table... cause I got stuff on her and the others. I can even tell you how I heard them talking about stuff they should not have. It won't make a bit of difference, you won't do anything anyway. you democrats are spineless anyway, He spector, peloci next time you go to fu****
car to have a private chat make sure it doesn't have ONSTAR. There I said it. You won't do a thing any way
I have nothing but contempt for the lot of you.
C.R.

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Dave — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 00:52:36 GMT

This tragdy in MN should be a wake up call for all of us, in that the walls are crumbling. While the tax cut/pork barrel mentallity is part of the making of this, I agree with Jamie and feel we should save the finger pointing for tomorrow in respect for the dead, injured and all of the affected families. My prayers go out tonight for them. Peace

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Mike Cihicago, IL — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 02:23:36 GMT

Keith,

Your show is hands down my favorite in all of TV land.
I laugh at your humor, feel your passion and agree with almost everything you say.
There were just a few words that you said on the Aug 2nd show that I think were well said but not well thought out.
Concerning the tragedy in Minneapolis.
It was about priorities with tax payer money. Do we secure our infrastructure such as bridges over the Mississippi or
build baseball stadiums? You backhanded the local government by insinuating that they skimped on safety to build a ball park.
That is simply not true. I would like to say I think Minneapolis is the most well thought out, safest and beautiful large city in America.
It was a horrible accident and could have happened anywhere. Further more the ballpark issue was fought hard against by local government for 7 years.
They were unwilling to have the public pay for it. Finally the demand for a state of the art facility to go with a state of the art city was to much to ignore.
Civic leaders, business interests and the public at large teamed up to get a new ballpark. They pressured the politicians and the public overwhelmingly supported the tax. It's a good thing.
Now let's find out what happened on the bridge and make sure it never happens again.

Thanks,

one of your biggest fans.

Mike Ellert
Formerly from Minneapolis now Chicago

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Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 02:37:51 GMT

Jamie-Over and Out! (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 6:54 PM)

Thank you Jamie, and you are absolutely right!! But please don't leave us, we NEED YOU!! You know I feel as you do, please, we need you to contnue sharing with us, please, please don't go away!!

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Jack Wright — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 03:14:05 GMT

Pity--I'll no longer be tuning to MSNBC.tv. They've jacked up the volume of commercials and keep hyping the seamy stuff. I'd imagine there are a lot of folks like me. Good luck, all

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Niels, down on Bayou DeGradeabelle, Post-Katrina MS — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 04:37:46 GMT

To the Countdown krewe:
Thank you all for helping keep us informed, for working yourselves ragged to keep this forum up, and for letting us wander in and sit on the good furniture with our pizza, Slushies, and opinions. "Mercy buckets!" :)

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Independent, Texas — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 10:26:43 GMT

LT in MD (Sent Thursday, August 02, 2007 8:43 PM)

The most secure way to make contact outside the blog is for you to set up a temp email id. Offer it to the bloggers. (Access it on a breakdown computer to avoid malicious behavior) Come back to the blog and "vet" the responders via a discrete question to confirm that the "real" blogger responded. Email your "real" address back once vetting is complete. I did that and had absolutely no problems with it. In fact, my temp id is still available for about 6 more days. You can use that if you like. (independent@281.com)

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Krista Swisher, Indianapolis, IN — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 13:02:23 GMT

LT (8:43 pm post), yes, my stomach does do a little nauseating churn when I have to type "The Honorable" so and so. I have to really fight the urge to upchuck and say," Hey you spineless hypocritical two-faced worthless so and so's! Either s*** or get off the pot and do something!" But, I still type "The Honorable..."

I also echo to the extreme Niels' kudos to the hard working blogger moderators. That's why I include them in my weekly Friday evening "words of wisdom and inspiration (??!)." Ummm...pizza and Slushies [insert Homer Simpson gurgle here]...

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Robert Vierthaler Wichita KS — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 15:55:08 GMT

KO: don't know if you've seen this, but it's worth a look.

http://www.kansas.com/static/video/brownback-girl/

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junebug — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 18:17:57 GMT

"Update: Bush is arming the Sunni in Iraq and selling weapons to the Saudis. I guess we've picked sides in the civil war."

Isn't it interesting that we've picked the side of the people who attacked us on 9/11 and on the sect of which Saddam Hussein was a member?

And this is supposed to be a fight against terror???? Right. Now, we're just going to tick off the other half of the Muslim world. (shaking head)

Countdown Tonight

junebug — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 18:24:46 GMT

Carol, I'm in the legal profession. Didn't have to look up the term, we use it often, but as used in the insurance defense biz: Res ipsa loquitur is a Latin term meaning "the thing speaks for itself". It is a doctrine of law that one is presumed to be negligent if he/she/it had exclusive control of whatever caused the injury even though there is no specific evidence of an act of negligence, and the accident would not have happened without negligence.

My comment which apparently has disappeared was correct and it was a compliment to the writings of the same. The thing spoke for itself.

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Steve, Easton, PA — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 19:18:35 GMT

I think George Bush has a lot of nerve telling congress to pass his wire-tapping bill before they go on vacation. Wasn't he on vacation when the 9/11 report was on his desk. And didn't the Iraqi parliament take off. And what is it he wants passed. A bill that was in effect before he trampled all over our Constitutional rights. He wants to begin intelligence gathering before going to FICA and then go to them for permission. That was the original bill. Why is he demanding something that those "evil" Democrate have been wanting to return to for the last three years? I'm 60 years old and this is by far the worst administration in my lifetime. As John Dean says "Worse the Watergate."

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Sue, West Allis, Wisconsin — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 19:39:23 GMT

Steve he wants the bill passed to cover his political heinie. The NSA spying program is vastly bigger than we know about and this bill will give him legal standing with ALL his illegal programs. That's why they are spinning this so hard.

Congress - give him an investigation on this spying and NOT the bill he wants to keep him and his buddies out of jail.

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Memphis TN — Sat, 04 Aug 2007 00:36:05 GMT

Well it's pretty clear to me every one in the beltway is blaming each other for our sorry infrastructure. The congress and senate are the best money can buy, how ever we should never forget the is one power greater the all three branches, and that is the voices of the amarican people, we are the top branch so we should all call and express our concern.

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Bill Rochester NY — Sat, 04 Aug 2007 17:47:28 GMT

Yes Kevin we have picked sides....BOTH!

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KT, TN — Sat, 04 Aug 2007 18:26:08 GMT

Possibly off topic here, but I just wanted to mention KO defending Billo--was that Thurs. nite. KO, babe, you should have been a southerner by birth. To defend a man' privacy--i.e., the "pervert" signs around his house was going too far (amen)--then turn around and Billo was the WPITW--that one's classic southern; the only thing you didn't do right was to preface the WPITW bit with the words "bless his heart." That's what we say just before we stick the knife in. Born diplomats, that's us.

Countdown Tonight

RudeRo, So.CA — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 04:02:49 GMT

# Question: On Passage
# Bill: S 1927 (This is the Bill in question, which passed)
# Vote description: Protect America Act
# Vote type: Yea-and-Nay
A standard vote that requires a simple majority for approval or passage of the legislation.
# Result: Passed, 227-183, with 23 not voting.
# Date/time: August 4, 2007, 10:20 p.m.
# Republican majority opinion: Yes
The position of more than 50 percent of voting Republicans. "None" means an equal split between "Yes" and "No."
# Democrat majority opinion: No