Mapping Super Tuesday

TOPCAT San Bernardino, CA — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 04:13:18 GMT

I have a headache.

Mapping Super Tuesday

disgusted — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 04:25:43 GMT

Hello Newshole, now you have two threads with zero comments? Please, post our comments or don't bother putting up another thread, this is horrible.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Anna Molly (: — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 04:45:34 GMT

Hey Countdown -- This rocks -- I especially enjoyed your final analysis --

“So whether you be Democrat or Republican, the fate of your candidate could rest in California.
Or somewhere else.
Or not at all.
As we said, it could all change in an instant. Which is a good part of what keeps it all so interesting!”

You’re starting to sound a little bit like me, Countdown. Or do I sound a little bit like you? Do you have a copy of the advanced liberal manual? No, you’re a true conservative. Or are those the same? So confusing, really. That’s why it’s so interesting.

Goodnight gracie.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Mark, AZ — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 05:02:08 GMT

Mapping Super Tuesday

THF — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 05:21:34 GMT

And IF you wish in one hand and spit in the other, which fills up quicker?

Mapping Super Tuesday

Aunt Ornery — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 12:57:33 GMT

Old Auntie is frustrated already with this super tuesday business. Night before last I had multiple "polling" calls between midnight and 1 am and yesterday before I from the time I got up until I finally fell asleep there were 13.
Now this is rediculous. nearly 20 calls in less than 24hrs. All asking questions about what I thought of the candidates and one punk (his voice was breaking) asking me to spell Obama and Clintons full names. I finally told one idiot that if I got one more call from them I'm voting for Keith Olbermann!<G> If I'd really been snotty about it I'd have asked for his name and said I was voting for him.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 14:54:43 GMT

We can't keep electing people who are against big government to run the government -- they only try harder to make it fail, and then say "See, big government doesn't work!".

We have to elect someone who wants the job AND who wants to do it right AND who understands that Religion has no place in government and Government has no place in the Church/Mosque/Temple.

They are separate for a reason and we should keep them separate -- otherwise we might not agree with the one religion that will win.

There are 375 days until the end of this regime on 1/20/2009
There are 360 days until the end of this Congress on 1/5/2009
There are 298 days until election day -- 11/4/2008

There are still more primaries to come. Evaluate ALL the candidates and think wisely before you vote.
And we are counting down.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Anna Molly (: — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 15:02:25 GMT

I think we ought to have some discussion on how endorsements are going to affect the remainder of the democratic primary season.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/11/us/politics/11obama.html?ref=politics

For example, Senator John Kerry just endorsed Senator Obama. Does this help or hurt Senator Obama? Does it help or hurt Senator Clinton and Senator Edwards?

Will Kerry’s association with Obama hurt Edwards by being viewed as a brush-off? Or, will Edwards view it as an opportunity to separate himself from Kerry. I heard they didn’t get along much anyway after Kerry refused to contest Ohio in 2004.

Same issue with Clinton. I doubt that she and Kerry are going to get along any better after this, for sure.

Does the Kerry endorsement of Obama make him seem more viable as a candidate, or does it actually hurt Obama more than it helps? Apparently, right-wing talk show pundits are already all over it, calling them “liberal soulmates.” Beyond the obvious pejorative “liberal” tag, does this have a subliminal racist connotation, as well? Will the endorsement cause the “swift-boat” element to train itself on Obama, whose foreign policy experience and understanding of the military may be open to legitimate question? Could this hurt him in open primary states? This impact could be significant.

If the swift-boat element does train on Obama, whom does it help more? Can Clinton defend her own record on Iraq better? How about Edwards? Will his 10-month troop withdrawal plan now come under tougher scrutiny?

Just a few questions. Food for thought, really, as we head toward super duper Tuesday.

Mapping Super Tuesday

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 15:15:41 GMT

Gee, all this mapping is interesting and makes for some good conversation but it sure can be as confusing as what tie looks best on Keith. I think I'll ignore it (the mapping scenarios and the tie controversy) and just watch this race as it all plays out. Suffice it to say that in both primary elections the winner needs the deciding delegate counts, and frankly, I really dont care what color ties Keith wears.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Anna Molly (: — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 15:22:24 GMT

Post Republican Debate (Senator Thompson Hears a Who Edition)

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/11/us/politics/11repubs.html?ref=politics

Wow. From what I’ve seen and heard, Senator Thompson finally woke up from his “I’m not that interested in running for president” trance and brought his hard-edged legal skills to bear on Governor Hugabee last night, trying to paint Baby Bear as a LIBERAL.

(Of course, in his appearance on MSNBC this morning, Governor Hugabee denied this. Good. I don’t want to start associating liberals with the opposite of Metamucil. I don’t know exactly where that would fit in my advanced liberal manual, anyway.)

But my favorite Thompsonism from the debate is labeling Governor Hugabee a LIBERAL because, among other things, he wanted to sign a law restricting smoking. This was cause for Senator Thompson to say, “That’s not the model of the Reagan coalition, that’s the model of the Democratic Party.”

So. I guess Senator Thompson meant that being against smoking is anti-American or something. Guilty as charged, Senator. Like being against asbestos in insulation and lead in food products and toys. No wonder you weren’t talking before. The more you talk, the deeper you go. Me likey.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Tom, Chicago, Ill. — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 15:55:11 GMT

You'd have to think that Hillary (post N.H.) would take Massachusetts, and Obama (post S.C.) would take Georgia. Which means it comes down to an ad war in California.

You'd also have to think that predicting anything would not be the strong suit of anybody right about now. ;) Hell, Massachusetts could vote for Jon Papelbon right now, and it wouldn't surprise me. (No foreign policy experience, but the man can *dance*.)

Mapping Super Tuesday

Anna Molly (: — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 15:56:42 GMT

Allochthon -- Awesome video on the previous thread. My generous thanks.

mad in Madtown -- I’m sorry, I missed that. The pink tie was because Countdown DIDN’T make Chris Mathews the worst person in the world. Of course. Thanks for clarifying. But the pink tie itself still … worked, didn’t you think?

Mapping Super Tuesday

Steve Turner Cedar Falls Iowa — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 16:14:47 GMT

Endorsements are like...uh, hairdo's, everybody has one, or a wig. Some are worth more than others. To put this in perspective, let me just break it down for you. Oprah's is worth a hundred Dr. Phil's. Kerry's is worth ten Dan Quayle's. Liberace's, were he still alive, would be worth three Barney Frank's. Madeline Albright's is worth two Condoleeza Rice's and a Henry Kissinger. Martha Stewart's is worth a Unibomber's and twelve Gitmo Detainee's. Rush Limbaugh's is worth any six Major League Baseball Steroid Abuser's. Britter's is worth two Lindsy Lohan's and one Paris Hilton's, at least for now. And finally, the women on the View's endorsements, are worth the same as the Staff of the Bunny Ranch. Now you know exactly, how much importance to place on 'endorsements'.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Laura in Los Angeles — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 16:20:57 GMT

Lots of news at Huffington Post, including a story about Keith..

http://www.huffingtonpost.com

Mapping Super Tuesday

Chris F., Just o'er the border in Williconsinois — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 16:21:17 GMT

For all you Obama supporters I have a question. What has he accomplished in his political career to think that he should even be considered for the Presidency? I have a feeling that is a hard question for anyone to answer.
Mark, AZ (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 12:02 AM)

For the record, Mark, I'm not a hard-core Obama supporter, although by demographic I lean that way. But here is some info for you on some of his accomplishments and goals while in the U. S. Senate. If you can give me a few minutes, I'll dig up his legislative record from the Illinois Senate. I'll try to get primary source information, as opposed to going to the candidate's websites

http://obama.senate.gov/

All of the Democratic candidates are well qualified, thoughtful, articulate (and boy, isn't that a nice change?) and dynamic. Any one of them would make a fine Chief Executive. As Carol has repeatedly suggested, examine all of them carefully and chose wisely.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Laura in Los Angeles — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 16:28:26 GMT

On a serious note though, Super Tuesday will be important in who will be the top runner. Hillary Clinton is in my neighborhood today speaking to a group of electrical workers. She needs the unions in So. CA and the Hispanic vote.

Mapping Super Tuesday

scott henderson nv — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 16:46:14 GMT

Mapping Super Tuesday

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 17:01:10 GMT

Mark, AZ (12:02 AM Post):

This is not an endorsement of Obama but let me try and answer your question if I can.

First, if I may, let me state that perhaps your question should be "what opportunities has Obama had to show what he can acccomplish versus other candidates? I responded in this manner as based on your question it is apparent you already feel that Obama has accomplished very little. On the other hand Mark, when one considers the claim by other candidates that they have much more experience then Obama one must then assume that they are also stating they have had many more opportunities by way of this experience to accomplish something positive or to have made positive differernces. So in addition to the question what opportunities has Obama had to show what he can accomplish we might want to preface that question with another question, what have been the positive accomplishments of the other candidates who claim themselves to have had many more opportunities to make a difference?

Now let's look at where we are today. In my opinion although still living in the greatest country in the world our country has many problems. They can be identified by the deep divisions in this country, the continued grip that special interests have on this country, the continued involvement in an unwinnable police action in Iraq, the lack of a proper health care plan for people of this country, the lack of proper campaign finance reform, an outmoded and failing educational system, an outdated and unfair tax system, a negative reputation with many other countries througout the world, etc, etc.

Now of the current candidates running for office who by way of their claim to the experience fame and who have had more opportunities then Obama to correct or make improvements on these issues, who should we be questioning as to what they have accomplished? Should it be Obama although other candidates insist he has not had the experience and therefore has not had the opportunities to make improvements, or should it be those candidates who claim they have the most experience and therefore have also had greater number of oppoprtunities to make a difference? Might some of these people not be McCain (a long time senator), Hillary, who claims she has more experience and involvement in one finger then what Obama has had in his entire career? In fact, name one candidate running for political office who has had less opportunity to accompolish something and to make a difference. I don't think you can find one. But you can certainly find several who have laid claim to having the most experience. Unfortunately for these people, in my mind, this also leads me to believe that if we take them at their word about their expeirence, especially anyone who claims they have had influence and/or particpation in the whitehouse, they have had more oportunity to accompolish then Obama but have accomplished very little.

All this leads me to my question. Do we seek someone who has had little opportunity to accomplsh improvements and therefore has accomplshed very little, or do we seek someone who has had many opportunities to accomplish improvements (based on the own claims of experience) and who have also accomplished very little. If a candidate wants to claim they have the most experience and therfore the most opportunities to make a difference then my question would be what have these candidate's accomplished? As I see it, those problems I mentioned above have not disappeared. And those who have been around longer with more experience and therefore more opportunities to have made a difference (as they claim) should be the people we hold accountable for not accomplishing much of anything. Not Obama.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Anna Molly (: — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 18:26:10 GMT

Mark, AZ (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 12:02 AM)

Hi Mark, AZ -- nice to see you again. I see your candidate Fred Thompson did very well for himself during the debate last night. Very presidential, I understand. Regarding Senator Obama, I don’t consider myself an expert. I see C A has already started, but I’ll also give it a try because it’s time we start looking closely at the candidates.

To suggest, as you do, that Senator Obama has no relevant experience is overly simplistic. For starters, you always have to respect anyone who can get themselves elected to the US Senate. Like Senators Thompson or McCain, for example. You know was educated at Columbia and Harvard. But in his case, unlike George Bush, some of what he learned appears to have stuck. He was a successful civil rights lawyer and community activist, and I believe he also taught constitutional law at the U of Chicago Law School. So, he knows the Constitution, something that George Bush once called “just a piece of paper.” Indeed.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Anna Molly (: — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 18:27:39 GMT

Mark, AZ (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 12:02 AM) (continued)

Obama served several years in the Illinois senate (1997-2004). As I understand it, he wrote ethics and health care legislation, and also worked on a host of other things, like tax credits for low-income workers, welfare reform, and some criminal issues involving the rights of victims during interrogation, racial profiling during traffic stops, and death penalty reform. When he later ran for US Senate, he was endorsed by police associations. As I recall it, President Reagan had no legislative experience, nor did George Bush (43).

Obama ran for the US Senate in 2004. His likely opponent, Jack Ryan, had to drop out in yet another of those messy republican sex scandals. After that, the repubs brought in Alan Keyes as a pretty cynical strategy to split the black vote. It didn’t work. Obama’s keynote speech at the 2004 democratic convention was amazing. Did you see it? Like Bill Clinton’s speech in 1988. So, we know he’s got great communication skills, something George Bush has never been accused of.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Anna Molly (: — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 18:28:15 GMT

Mark, AZ (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 12:02 AM) (continued)

During his first two years in Congress, Obama sponsored 150+ bills and resolutions. (Probably about the same number that Bush vetoed in that period.) He’s been active on immigration, which ought to interest a guy from a border state. He sponsored the Secure Fence Act. He made several foreign trips as a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee relating to prevention of terrorism by controlling the supply of weapons of all kinds -- conventional, biological, and mass destruction. He’s been active in Middle East and Africa issues as well, divesting his personal ownership of Sudan-related stock as a gesture of his commitment on these issues.

In the new Congress, he’s been working with our senator (Feingold) on ethics and lobbying reform. I understand he has also been active in veterans’ health care issues, government cost reduction, energy independence (with Senator McCain), and health care issues, including SCHIP. Heaven also knows we need ethics reform, energy independence, and secure health care.

Mapping Super Tuesday

anna Molly (: — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 18:29:13 GMT

Mark, AZ (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 12:02 AM) (continued)

Obama was always opposed to the war. In 2002, he led an anti-war rally in Chicago. In 2006, he started calling for phased re-deployment of the troops. He supports aggressive diplomacy and tough sanctions to prevent nuclear weapons proliferation. Obama has been criticized for voting for war authorization funding, but like me, I’m sure you would not be opposed to voting for giving the troops everything they need to get the job done.

Obama has participated in many activities intended to get democrats to reach out to evangelicals and other persons of faith. He’s written two best-selling books, which is the same number as Countdown, but two more than I have.

On the whole, I think you could put Obama’s record up against any of the other candidates remaining in the race without too much apology. Even now, at the end of Bush’s term, I would not be afraid to compare Obama’s record to Bush’s record. Not even close. Thanks for asking, Mark. This was fun. Junior journalism, for sure. Now back to work.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 18:31:17 GMT

Now you know exactly, how much importance to place on 'endorsements'.
Steve Turner Cedar Falls Iowa (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 11:14 AM)

LOL!! My sides are aching from laughing so hard; I feel the same --I'm just NO IN ANY WAY, SHAPE OR FORM, in the same league as you!!

You my dear friend are brilliant!!

KUDOS, PACE E AMORE!!

Mapping Super Tuesday

Chris F., Just o'er the border in Williconsinois — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 18:33:22 GMT

I see Rep. Kucinich has called for a recount in New Hampshire. It appears that the issue of the Dieboldt (did I spell that right?) voting machines HAS been heard and is being acted on accordingly. I believe this recount is a good idea.

I do not believe Rep. Kucinich is taking this action at the behest of Sen. Obama or to attempt to harm Sen. Clinton, as some people are doubtless saying. I think he is making this step to ensure that the voting process is uncorruptable. If we cannot trust the election process, if we question every outcome, if we have no faith and trust in our "elected" officials, how do we differ from the regimes of Pinochet, Putin and a host of other nations with "free elections"? When everyone knows it was anything but.

Let's find out NOW if the voting machines can be or were tampered with. Let's not have a replay of "The Chad Dance" (Hanging, Floating, Swinging) of the 2000 election or the 2004 allegations of discrimination, missing or miscounted absentee ballots and provisional ballots.

So let's have a recount. I doubt it will change anything - for what it's worth, I believe Sen. Clinton won New Hampshire fair 'n square in a close vote. But I salute Rep. Kucinich for making this courageous stand.

This may be the most important election in our lifetimes. We owe it to ourselves, our progeny and our nation to ensure that when the President-Elect raises their hand for the Oath of Office that the pathway to the presidency was pure.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 18:50:34 GMT

Chris F., Just o'er the border in Williconsinois (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 1:33 PM)

I agree Chris!! Also, ANYTHING Dennis Kucinich suggests I would back; the man is wonderful and truly beyond reproach!! Thanks for this information; I had not heard the news!!

While I don't think it will change NH one bit; I believe the outcome is correct; both Obama's and Edwards' numbers were right in line with the polls; the polls DID NOT as Pat from Boston explained yesterday, take into account the 40% of undecided voters; they went Clinton’s way; the youth did NOT turn out the way the pollsters predicted, which hurt Obama; therefore, I believe the results are accurate.

However, I also believe if there are irregularities, now is the time to realize them and FIX them!!

PEACE!!

Mapping Super Tuesday

JHoward, Salyersville, KY — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 18:58:22 GMT

If California is going to be so important, why no coverage of the Voter's Initiative Act, which last I heard, was still being pushed? These dirty tricks need to be exposed before the election, not contested afterward, when it does little good.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 19:08:05 GMT

Anna Molly (: (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 1:26 PM)
Anna Molly (: (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 1:27 PM)
Anna Molly (: (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 1:28 PM)
Anna Molly (: (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 1:29 PM)

Nice job. It was wonderful to see all that together. Thank you for your "junior journalism" attempt. It's nice to see that we are all getting down to evaluating ALL the candidates. Now we all have to think wisely before we vote.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Anna Molly (: — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 19:09:57 GMT

Anna Molly (: (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 10:22 AM) Anna, there you go again misinterpreting conservative thought. Liberals can be against smoking all they want, what bothers us is when you try to dictate behavior – conservatives like our freedoms. Why is it that liberals find it necessary to restrict freedoms of others - especially when you are wrong on just about everything? scott henderson nv (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 11:46 AM)

Sigh. Just when I thought we were getting somewhere. That’s right out of the advanced liberal manual (chapter 3). Someone tries to give you a thoughtful and reasoned response, if slightly ditzy, and even admits to agreeing with you, and you just tell them they’re wrong (trick #4, for anyone who’s keeping track, because I’m not.)

All right. Straight up, no tricks (until the end). (FYI - That’s called “foreshadowing,” scott.) As a genuine liberal, I hope you don’t smoke, having witnessed firsthand what it can do. I wouldn’t wish that on anyone, not even you. However, as a “left libertarian” on your own scale, I also recognize it’s not my right to regulate behavior, except to the extent it impacts negatively on others. Like murder laws. Smoking drives up health care costs, not only for you (if you really smoke), but for all of us. Second hand smoke exposure imperils family members or co-workers. The scientific evidence on this is now pretty clear. Not to mention, of course, that many people just find second hand smoke noxious.

Liberals are wrong about everything. Okay, since you said it, I’ll buy it. You’re always right (authoritarian, if I recall correctly). I’m the one who’s left (or if you’re on your yacht, that’s port). Come to think of it, though, wouldn’t an authoritarian rightie like you actually FAVOR regulating people’s behavior -- as long as it’s not your own, of course -- like abortion, gay marriage, and stuff like that? How do you reconcile the two, scott? I’m anxious to hear.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 19:11:58 GMT

To whoever posted the "Sports Night" link. Thank you.

I used to watch that show every week, even though I only follow one team. The writing was superb. TV Guide referred to it as the "best show that no one was watching". I even remember that episode. I only found out recently that those two were based on Dan and Keith (which one was which?).

Mapping Super Tuesday

Pat, Boston, MA — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 19:20:53 GMT

CA, you have just raised the ultimate question for voters in this year's election. Very well put.
_____________________________________________________

Bill/Rochester: Good luck with the Giants.

CA/AL and Sue/Wisconsin: (where ever you may be!!): Good luck to the Packers.

Independent/Texas: (where ever you may be!!) Good luck with the Cowboys.

Brenda Dalton (where ever you may be!!) Good luck with Jacksonville.

Pat/Boston: Good luck with the Patriots.

Mapping Super Tuesday

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 19:23:48 GMT

Endorsements:

I have to respectfully disagree with some bloggers who state endorcements mean very little. Although this may be true for those who blog here and who tend to do their own thinking it is not necessarily true for many Americans who let others do their thinking for them. I believe endorcements can be very important, especially in a race that is very tight. As to whether an endorsement hurts or helps a candidate that is another matter altogether, but to think they have little bearing on a race I cannot agree. Union endorsements are important as union members tend to be very committed to voting for the candidate who their union endorses. Inndividual endorsements can be important too. It seems that some believe that Carey's endorsement of Obama will mean very little but I am not so sure. I wonder what these same folks would think if Gore were to endorse one of the candidates. Would they then also say that such an endorsement means very little. I also wonder what they would say if Bill Clinton endorsed Obama rather then Hillary. Now don't tell me that would not make a difference. Now please don't reply asnd say that would never happen. I was using it as an example because there is no doubt that some of Hillary's votes are for Bill and not Hillary. In that case Obama has a disadvantage in a way. He is running against two people rather than one. And it is the name Bill Clinton that garners the stronger of the base support. Anyone wish to make a bet. If Gore does endorse one of the candidates (and he may not at all), but if he does, I'll bet it will be Obama.

Mapping Super Tuesday

B. A. Buddusky — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 19:27:11 GMT

Map this Obama for change,map this Hillary for whatever,map this 100 years,map this Peace in the Middle East...Map this all you candidates that have caved in time and time again on stopping the war but hop all over the country talking about what ya gonna do stop the war with no mission but killing by crooks who lay wreaths while saying they would have bombed while making Peace.Yes Map This and When your Done We Will be No Different then the rest of them because most of us sat around and let them do it.They could wait to get out on the campaign trail last defense budget.Yes map this with all your nifty little excuses.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oEVaTJFJCc&feature=related
Map on map on map on the Angels of Death and It's Leader.The unknown mission of Lord Valdemort Dubya and his 100 year buddies. Well he got his taste for blood in Texas by pulling the switch,no mercy there and once they've killed you know what they say.He must like it.
Of course if they are American Troops he has no time for them or taking care of their pay,or their families,or their Veterans or their Agents,that's for you Joe and Valerie.The Party of the Compassionate Right?How many times did he use that word a few years ago.
Senators and Congressmen get your behinds back to Washington,DC and do your jobs of addressing Americas
problems NOW.That is what we pay you for not some pipe
dream we can hear the local neighborhood bar by Crazy
Guggenheim's view of the world.Your stealing from us by not earning your money to do your jobs and meanwhile folks are dying and n one is watching apparently Map On Maps your all full of Crapp.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oEVaTJFJCc&feature=related

Mapping Super Tuesday

David Molinero — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 19:44:58 GMT

Carol, Long Valley NJ (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 9:54 AM)

Just how big should our Government get?

Big enough to Fine someone who Smokes at Home?

How about before increasing the size of Government, making Government get the Basics right. Secured Borders, Punish Criminals, Keeping Roads and Highways Repaired, Paying off the National Debt.

To become fiscally sound, our Government would have to...

A) Increase Federal Income Taxes 74%
Or
B) Increase Payroll Taxes 103%
Or
C) Cut Federal Spending 115%
Or
D) Cut Social Security and Medicare 47%.
Comptroller General David Walker - Head of the G.A.O.

And that's if we Start in '08, worse if we put it off even longer.
So there is No Money for Big Government, Nor Government Ran Universal Healthcare.

Mapping Super Tuesday

TheClearAndPresidentDanger — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 19:47:14 GMT

conservatives like our freedoms.

Why is it that liberals find it necessary to restrict freedoms of others - especially when you are wrong on just about everything?

scott henderson nv (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 11:46 AM)

Freedoms? bushco gave us the freedom to fear, and if we were not fearful enough, they gave us the Fear Meter to tell us just how fearful we should be.

bushco gave us the freedom to spend ourselves into oblivion-- you do recall Bozo bush after 9/11 telling everyone to continue to spend--- go ahead, max out your credit card, and BTW, bushco knew there are some cheap mortgages out there. KennyBoy gave bozo some pointers on ignoring signs of stress in the ecomony.

bushco gave us the freedom to ignore the Constitution, after all, it's just a GD piece of paper. Oh, yes. The Geneva convention, too, with it's quaintness.

There is so much wrong that it'd be simpler to list the good points---------- Let's see--------
1) ... hmmmm Nothing comes to mind. Oh, yeah the $38 Billion in corporate bonuses Did you get any of that, scottnv?

Mapping Super Tuesday

gator,stuart,fl — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 19:55:56 GMT

In response to annoying polling calls may I suggest:
1- Why, you writing a book?
2- Why, are they hiring?
3- It's been forty-five minutes! Where's my pizza?
4- Can't talk now! SWAT just took in my door!
5- Can't talk now! I've got L. Ron Hubbard on the other line!
6- Who wants to know?
7- Can't talk now! My line's tapped!
8- I feel awful! I got some bad X.
9- Can't talk now! The damn cat's eating the parrot!
10- Can't talk now! My bran muffin just kicked in!
These, followed by a swift return of the receiver to the base ends the call and let's the caller have an acceptible excuse to give the line boss for your non-response.
Feel free to use any of these or ad lib.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Anna Molly (: — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 20:17:48 GMT

Carol, Long Valley -- Thanks, Carol. I work full time and don’t usually have the time to study this in depth, but I thought it might be worth a peek. I was pretty surprised, actually, given the tendency to view Senator Obama as the most inexperienced candidate, just how much experience he has, and how varied it has been, especially the foreign policy experience. I’m going to take some time over the next couple of weeks to do a little more digging. Maybe I’ll find out I like Rudy Slippers after all. All right, maybe not. LOL

Mapping Super Tuesday

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 20:23:53 GMT

David Molinero (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 2:44 PM)

Hello David, long time no joust. Hope you and yours had a pleasant holiday season.

How big should our government get? How about big enough to protect regular Americans like ourselves from the corporatocracy that currently runs our country?

By the way, you were projecting, I never mentioned health care.

I would add one more set of government functions to your list. I would like to undo all the corporate giveaways in the last 7 years and reestablish the teeth in the EPA, OSHA, MSHA, FCC, DOJ, Dept of Energy etc. All these agencies were broken by Bush/Cheney and that was what I was ranting about.

As to solutions, why does it have to be an "or" solution, why not a combination?

How about we try doing something from Columns A, B, C and D. How about we try some 'pay as you go', instead of 'borrow until the debt is so vast that we'll never climb out of the hole'?

And lastly, how about if we recognize that others may be different, but not necessarily wrong. I see the EPA as necessary to protect our environment, the corporatocracy sees it as an obstacle to greater profits. We're both right, but I'm taking the long view that humans cannot keep polluting the air and water forever.

I wish you well.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Chris F., Just o'er the border in Williconsinois — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 20:28:20 GMT

The Stock Market just went ugly in a fast direction, our soon-to-be-(not soon enough for me!)-former president is legacy shopping in the one region he's done more to de-stabilize than anyone else in recent memory, a beautiful young Marine, allegedly the rape victim of a fellow Marine is found dead in a shallow grave, there are allegations of wide-spread voter fraud in a key primary election . . .

And what odds will anybody give me that this will be the #1 Story Tonight:

"OJ Simpson Back in Jail - Violates Parole"

Please, no. Please?

Mapping Super Tuesday

cyanoia, louisiana — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 20:28:50 GMT

I am disgusted with the obsession of Countdown and the rest of the media with campaign "news". I used to watch Countdown to see what was going on in the Administration, the War and Congress. Now, the show spends more time "Keeping Tabs" on "celebraties" than it does on all 3 of those things put together. Can we hear more about what's going on in government now, and less about who is going to be president a year from now?

Mapping Super Tuesday

Frederick Sweeney, Brooklyn — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 20:29:51 GMT

On a lighter note,I will vote Republican when it snows in Baghdad...what?... it is?... really?... today?...My prior comment is no longer operative.

Mapping Super Tuesday

gator,stuart,fl — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 20:34:39 GMT

Steve Henderson NV:
Conservative thought is an oxymoron.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 20:37:55 GMT

gator,stuart,fl (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 2:55 PM)

I like your list, but you can add some more

~ "no thank you" [click]
~ "I have to put you on hold" then put the phone down and walk away. Hang it back up later when it starts to beep.
~ "Let me get your name/address so I know where I can send the bill, I charge $250 an hour for my time. " [they go click everytime]

This is fun, any one else have some good excuses?

Mapping Super Tuesday

scott henderson nv — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 20:39:18 GMT

Anna Molly (: (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 2:09 PM)

Wrong again! I wonder how you make it to work and such, turning left when you should turn right and all…

I am neither authoritarian nor a social conservative. If you recall that test I was quite a bit to the right on the horizontal scale, but at zero on the vertical authoritarian, libertarian line. I think government should stay out of my private life, but ensure a robust capitalist environment.

Liberals on the other hand want to regulate my behavior on everything from smoking, hamburgers, the SUV I drive, my carbon footprint, etc.. You tend to lean socialist, which takes economic power from the people and puts it in the hands of a few elites in government. By wanting to take economic power away from the people you inhibit our freedoms and force us to rely more heavily on Government. I personally don’t want to rely on the government for my economic success, doing so ensures failure. I guess liberals happy to give up their freedoms so to be comfy it the arms their Mommy government…

Mapping Super Tuesday

Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 20:39:32 GMT

B. A. Buddusky (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 2:27 PM)

Amen!! You see, I was supporting Senator Dodd for a while because he DID get back to DC to fight Bush and telephone companies who illegally spied on us; SADLY, he was also given the BOOT by BOTH the MSM and the American people who chose as you stated the other night, "The Pretty People."!!

By the way, I would pick George Clooney as president; Brad Pitt as VP and Angelina Jolie as Secretary of State!! Yep, you summed it up alright; I've stated that for a year; now, my choices were reduced to TWO!!

I am certainly disgusted B A!! I chose the one who I feel has a voting record and has not run from voting; Obama did it for years in Illinois as a state Senator with all of his "PRESENT" votes and has pulled NO SHOWS in the US Senate --I wonder WHY he doesn't want a vote on record??

PEACE B A !! OUSTANDING POST!!

Mapping Super Tuesday

Laura in Los Angeles — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 20:48:30 GMT

Anna Molly Friday, January 11, 2008 3:17 PM..Anna, for someone who works full time I am always amazed at someone like you and many others here who also work full time that post wonderful, informative comments. I work full/part time as I own my business and just can't seem to become as informed as I'd like to be. I think it takes someone who is politically saavy and has a knack for writing. I admire all of you who can do that. Keep up the great work. I always learn from your posts and get many chuckles too.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 20:53:57 GMT

Frederick Sweeney, Brooklyn (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 3:29 PM)

LOL!!

Mapping Super Tuesday

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 20:59:05 GMT

Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 3:39 PM)

I wonder WHY he [Obama] doesn't want a vote on record?

The very short answer is because he's choosing his battles. Not everyone is passionate about every issue.

Another simplistic answer is that every vote cast can be used against you in a future election.

There is a good discussion of his 'Present' votes here
http://www.civildiscourse.com/index.php?showtopic=1066

I know that you've chosen to support Hillary and I respect your decision, but Obama is not as bad as you've concluded and I believe that he would make a fine President as well.

Mapping Super Tuesday

gator,stuart,fl — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 21:08:14 GMT

If there's a Steve in Henderson NV, I apologize. I was trying to respond to Scott while talking to a Steve.
Someone had mentioned Bush not having a legacy because of the collapse of the talks in the Middle East. He will have a legacy. It just won't be a legacy which will treat him very well.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 21:16:18 GMT

Carol, Long Valley NJ (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 3:59 PM)

I don't think he's "bad" Carol; I also think he would make a good president; I just don't believe he is my best choice.

My best choices are gone; I will support Obama if he is my Party's nominee; I have said that several times here now.

Thanks for the link; I've read much of it, but I'll check back to see if anything has changed.

I hope that clarifies my position on Obama; I will vote for him if he represents my Party!!

Thanks!!

Mapping Super Tuesday

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 21:17:34 GMT

Pat, Boston (2:20 PM):

Well thanks, glad you think so. Sorry about the length of the post I made. But I wanted to get the point across in my post to Mark, AZ that if any candidate is running against another based on a claim of experience (versus the other lacks the experience) then they have placed themselves under a finer microscope regarding their record and contributions then the person they say has not had the experience or opportunity to have made a difference. If I were Obama (not an endorsement from me as of yet mind you) I would say yes, Hillary has much more experience and involvmnent in this country's business then me on a national and international level. So let's take a close look at where we are at today and see just what Hillary's experience and involvement has done for this country. Then I might say after such a review that it appears based on those problems I mentioned earlier we have not progressed much at all under her experience and involvement so here is what I am proposing to resolve these issues. Take a look at them and let me know if you like them or approve of them. Now you can go chose to go with the status quo or you can join me to tell those with the experience and who have had the opportunities to make a difference, you have had your chance, take a seat. Rather then allow candidates such as Hillary to take advantage of their claim to experience and of being an insider for a much longer period of time, I would use the very same against them. And i would hammer it home every day.

Mapping Super Tuesday

junebug — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 21:22:02 GMT

scott henderson nv (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 3:39 PM)

small scott, I seem to remember you telling us that you were right up there with Hitler and the rest of the authoritarian uber-conservatives.

Based on your posit, your constant labeling me as a "liberal" is completely and totally wrong . . . I'm a firm believer in our Constitution and the rights which are granted there and I don't want ANYBODY, including phony conservatives such as George W. Bush, infringing upon them.

BTW, have you read any of David "Axis of Evil" Frum's new book, "Comeback: Conservatism That Can Win Again."? He's calling for a return to true conservatism, affordable private health insurance for all, acceptance of the theory of global warming, middle class tax cuts and tax increases for polluters/energy producers. He doesn't think too highly of his former boss, Mr. Bush. And before you call him a "liberal" you might want to do a little research . . . you can't get much more conservative or neo-conservative [member of PNAC, AEI AND he's Rudy's foreign policy advisor] than Mr. Frum.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Frederick Sweeney, Brooklyn — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 21:28:03 GMT

Pam ( 3;53)
If KO references the snowing in Baghdad with a snarky comment tonight it'll make my weekend. Stay tuned.

Mapping Super Tuesday

O J — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 21:28:22 GMT

Back in jail again!!!
Damn't!!! Can't people just leave me alone

Mapping Super Tuesday

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 21:34:58 GMT

Pat Boston (2:20 PM Post):

To follow up I thought one of Obama's best moments was during a debate Hillary was talking about all her experience and it was noted that Obama had sought advice and suggestions from some of Bill's and Hillary's old colleagues. Obama stated to Hillary that yes he had sought the advice of some of these people and once elected Presdient he just might need to call upon her for some ideas and suggestions as well.

In other words yes Hillary you have been there and done that as well as having access to some of these same people, but where are the improvements and contributions you have made to this country when you had your opportunity. Experience is a wonderful thing. But the ability to bring people together and to make contributions with other significant players (including those on the opposite side of the isle) and who want to work with you, and will work with you, is another matter altogether.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Bill Rochester NY (a 1% far-left loony and proud of it) — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 21:36:26 GMT

Question for everyone here: Who will bring out the most ugliness from the Repugs; Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama ? Will they expose their sexism on account of Sen. Clinton or their racism on account of Obama?

Mapping Super Tuesday

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 21:48:36 GMT

Carol Long (3:59 PM Post):

Some good points and I'm not saying that Obama is perfect by no means. But as any politican he is going to pick his battles, issues and votes with the electorates responses in mind. But give me two people that I feel both might make a decent stab at being a good President, and I will chose the one that I think can incite and excite people into supporting good causes (especially the youth for they are our future), who is an excellent communicator, who may have less baggage regarding enemies on the other side of the isle, and who has the ability to stir the souls of people.

Mapping Super Tuesday

C A, Tuscalossa, AL — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 21:59:45 GMT

Bill Rochester NY (4:36 PM Post):

Good question Bill. I don't know the answer. But in my opinion Obama has less for the Republicans to expose against him then Hillary. They may expose their racism on account of Obama but I believe they will expose their sexism, Clintonism, and failed my-way-or-the-highhway National Health Care Programism on account of Hillary.

Mapping Super Tuesday

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:01:12 GMT

Bill, Rochester, NY:

I forgot Hillaryism as well.

Mapping Super Tuesday

NW Reader — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:10:50 GMT

scott henderson nv (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 11:46 AM)

1. Why is it that liberals find it necessary to restrict freedoms of others -

2. especially when you are wrong on just about everything?

Liberals aren't interested in limiting your freedoms. Liberals want to ensure everyone's freedoms. Like the freedom to breathe clean air. You are free to pollute yourself. Do it in a way that doesn't pollute me: try the patch.

It's not that liberals have anything against smoking per se, it's the uninvited health risks due to someone else's smoking that are unwelcome. I don't recall any conservatives off the top of my head, for example, who would want to decriminalize marijuana. Why is that? Why do conervatives want to limit smokers' freedoms? Don't smokers deserve the right to smoke what ever they want?

Your right to swing your fist ends just before my nose.

2. That's just trolling. Try again.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:14:15 GMT

Pam ( 3;53)
If KO references the snowing in Baghdad with a snarky comment tonight it'll make my weekend. Stay tuned.
Frederick Sweeney, Brooklyn (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 4:28 PM)

I hope he does for you Frederick; the weather sure is a better topic to talk about also!! I'll stay tuned!!

PEACE TO YOU & GOOD LUCK!!

Mapping Super Tuesday

P.A.M.B., Oshkosh, WI — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:19:51 GMT

Mapping Super Tuesday

Anna Molly (: — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:19:56 GMT

Laura in Los Angeles (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 3:48 PM)

Laura -- I found an easy resolution to the problem. I no longer sleep. I catch up on my work during those odd hours between 2 and 4 in the morning. Thanks for the kind words. You do a great job, too. I love your posts.

Mapping Super Tuesday

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:27:49 GMT

Allow me one more comment please before we conclude for the weekend.

There is something about Obama, and Huckabee, Richardson and Kucinich for that matter. That no matter if you agree or disagree with their positions they all seem to feel comfortable in their own skin. There is a confidence in each of these people that win or lose, facing hard times or not, their apparent acceptance of their self-identity I believe would be a plus for any President of the United States. We have been dealing for years now with a guy who has never found that awareness or comfort with self and therefore has relied on anger, excuses, projection of blame and a my-way-or-the-highhway attitude when dealing with others. In this vain and as I see it Hillary Clinton is similar to GWB. I don't sense a comfort with self in Hillary and in fact think that she often questions her own vulnerability and those reasons why some people just may not like her. There is not a comfort level with self in Hillary as you see in Obama, Ricahrdson, Huckabee and Kucinich. If this is true, (and it may not be) I just wonder how she will be once given the power of the Presidency. We saw a little foreshadowing of this when she tried to ramrod her health care plan down people's throats under Bill's administration. Will her future actions be similar to those of GWB once given this power? I don't know, but I am very leary. I think part of her emotional moment (not holding it against her if sincere) may have been a result of her frustrations of not understanding exactly who Hillary Clinton is and why she draws the responses she does from some people. Just some thoughts.

Mapping Super Tuesday

untitled, Chicago, IL — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:29:39 GMT

Keith & Countdown: Please invite Dennis Kucinich on your program to discuss his asking to have the NH vote recounted. Remember Ohio?

http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/01/11/kucinich-recount-redux/?ref=opinion

Mapping Super Tuesday

thanks — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:29:40 GMT

news hole moderator, update the blog please

Mapping Super Tuesday

Steve Turner Cedar Falls Iowa — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:37:13 GMT

Bill. Does a shark have a waterproof butt?

Mapping Super Tuesday

update — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:46:02 GMT

Newshole are you shut down for the weekend already?

Mapping Super Tuesday

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 22:55:19 GMT

Bill Rochester NY (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 4:36 PM)

The viral (think of Karl Rove) emails have already started, don't you know? They've chosen religious intolerance, instead of race baiting. According the smear mongerers, Obama is a wahabi muslim, who will take the oath of office on a Koran and destroy this country for the islamo-fascists. They've cleverly mixed trues with innuendo and lies. See for yourself.

http://www.snopes.com/politics/obama/muslim.asp
http://www.snopes.com/politics/obama/anthem.asp
http://www.snopes.com/politics/obama/church.asp

Mapping Super Tuesday

Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 23:17:36 GMT

SECOND ATTEMPT TO POST!!

Obama vs. Clinton;= Wall street vs. the HMOS. Who wins? Not we the people that's for sure.
Bill Rochester NY (a 1% far left loony and proud of it) (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 4:22 PM)

Thank you Bill; you know ALSO I supported Kucinich, then Biden and/or Dodd --sadly, they are gone!!

You summed this up perfectly; while I don't think either will be bad presidents though, just to clarify that!!

For me, my decision has sparked behavior here from people I least expected it from; therefore, after this post, I am done discussing this issue HERE; I have other outlets!!

On that note, Senator Clinton, if one looks at her record with OPEN eyes and removes personal BIAS, he/she will see her MANY, MANY accomplishments throughout both her personal and political life!!

Even during her darkest hour when she was nationally humiliated, she held her head high and marched on; I respect her!! On that note; I am done discusing it!!

PEACE BILL!!

Mapping Super Tuesday

Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 23:30:01 GMT

One final word; comparing Hillary Clinton to George W. Bush is really shameful in my opinion; it’s also one of the worst things I’ve read about her!! WOW!! Some people must really personally HATE Senator Clinton; personal hate is a bad thing –not healthy at all!!

Mapping Super Tuesday

Anna Molly (: — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 23:33:22 GMT

scott henderson nv -- My answer to your last was either too long or a bit too playful in my liberal kicking sort of way, so I’ll try again. You seem testy, sir. Did you get up on the left side of the bed this morning, or something? Of course I’m wrong. What would you expect? I have no problem getting too and from work, but I confess I’m having a little trouble navigating your argument because it seems to keep turning in circles.

I must have been wrong about the vertical/horizontal axis, but now that you tell me you’re closer to Ron Paul, that changes things. I don’t know what, of course, but something, I’m sure. You’re the one who wants to give power to the elite -- the elite being corporate executives and guys like Bush and Cheney who only give to the rest of us in ways that are guaranteed to trickle back up. Not every liberal wants a handout, but real liberals do have compassion for those less fortunate. As a genuine liberal, I’m not interested in inhibiting your freedom as long as it doesn’t negatively impact on others. Eat hamburgers and do what you need to do about your carbon footprint, but don’t complain to me when you suffer an injury your insurance company won’t pay for because the government didn’t require coverage for it. Freedom always has a flipside.

You never answered my question about whether you think it’s appropriate for government to regulate private decisions like abortion or gay marriage. But that’s okay. What could one expect? I’ll tell you one thing, though. I wouldn’t give up MY freedom to be comfy in George Bush’s arms -- that’s for sure. Always a pleasure, scott.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Josie, New Mexico — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 02:00:58 GMT

I like that laundry list of Barrack accomplishments. Now if you just say you maybe support something (even if you don't actually vote for it) you get to claim it in your list of accomplishments.
Who knew?
P.A.M.B., Oshkosh, WI (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 5:19 PM)

Obviously, the Senator from Illinois knew and still knows. Glad to see that people are looking into Obama's so-called excellent record of accomplishments, a joke in itself. But according to some hear, he can speak well and inspire us and that’s qualification enough for president. If he gets elected, many will be disappointed; the man hasn’t done anything and runs away when he has had the chance. But Hillary is just bad and that’s it, vote for Obama then; he speaks so well that’ll get the job done, not.

People really do need to get over themselves. Might I suggest instead of spending so much time here citing Obama’s inspirational speeches will unite the country actually study the Senator’s record and not the inner workings of his brain. We have Doctor Phil for that, another sorry case.

Nice post.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Puzzled — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 02:13:32 GMT

What happens if Obama wins Guam ?

Mapping Super Tuesday

Laura, Groveland, FL — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 03:57:03 GMT

C A Tuscaloosa: ...who is an excellent communicator, who may have less baggage regarding enemies on the other side of the isle....
Don't count on the less baggage. After all, GWB is our current President...beating out all others going against him who didn't seem to have baggage, but had baggage created for them by the GOP war machine. After all, that’s what they do; run and win elections, so they can stay in power and maintain their lifestyle. Trust me, there will be baggage, real, imagined or fabricated.
As for being a great communicator, or motivational speaker? They only thing I see him motivating people to do is vote for him...that in and of itself doesn't improve anything. Change simply for the sake of change is BS. If there's no more to it than that, bye bye. Any of the Democrats would be change from what we currently have. Being a good talker doesn't get anything done and if the best you can do is get people to vote for you and then what, well, we'll actually just be in the same damned boat we're in now.
As for Clinton just like GWB? Well, it doesn't get much worse than that. Not much to say to that except that's not someone who's "very leary" rather, its sounds more like the standard Clinton hater. You are right Pam...not healthy.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Laura in Los Angeles — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 09:39:23 GMT

Anna Molly (: Friday, January 11, 2008 5:19 PM..LOL! thanks Anna. There just aren't enough hours in the day, so lack of sleep is sometimes the answer. I nap in the evening and stay up late at night to catch up on blogs, information, etc. As the time of most of my posts are between those odd times you mentioned. I learn so much for you and our regular bloggers and also many other folks who come here every so often. I really feel this is the best place to be.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Laura in Los Angeles — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 09:48:34 GMT

Frederick Sweeney, Brooklyn Friday, January 11, 2008 3:29 PM..On a lighter note, I will vote Republican when it snows in Baghdad...what!...it is?...really?...
today?...My prior comment is no longer operative.

LOL! That's good Frederick!

Mapping Super Tuesday

John, Austin, TX — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 21:42:35 GMT

Watch your CSI, smirk at your neighbor's inferiority, lie to avoid confrontation, chug your Starbuck's coffee, go to church on Sunday curse on Monday, label those you have no desire to understand, pop those pills, cover up your selfishness by giving a Hallmark, be blindly patriotic to a country that was once a fruit which has become rotten and stinks.

Is it too far gone? Will revolution fall upon the shoulders of those we elect?

It is foolish to think those who gain power will in turn give it away without much of a fight. How many layers (bureaucratic, economic, social ladder, local, state, associations, unions, organizations, committees, triplicates, duplicates) must be sifted to actually change something?

Our voice has become ever the more meek.

It starts outside your front door.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Laura in Los Angeles — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 21:49:40 GMT

JHoward, Salyersville, KY Friday, January 11, 2008 1:58 PM..If California is going to be so important, why no coverage of the Voter's Initiative Act, which last I heard, was still being pushed? These dirty tricks need to be exposed before the election, not contested afterward, when it does little good.

Good question. I was very surprised to learn that the GOP is moving ahead with it's desire to have California voters approve to appropriate 20-22 of California's 55 electoral college votes by ballot initiative for the 2008 Presidential election. It would not affect 2008 election, but would the 2012. Original reports had it dead in the water because of lack of funding and signatures. The movement is still having those problems. Even if they were to get enough funding, which is doubtful, the necessary signatures required is a real problem. They have to collect a minimum of 700,000 allowing for invalid signatures, to be able to reach the 434,000 needed. It can't be ignored that this is certainly resorting to trickery by the Republican Party, something they've become so adept at. Regardless of how one fels about the 2001 election and 2004 re-election of George Bush and how it was achieved, there are still many unanswered questions about the trickery, if you will, involved in this. Questions asked by many of those who voted for him and have since regretted voting for him. I only use it as an example of why they are doing this to get the CA initiative passed.

I can't believe my fellow Californians would even consider voting for such a measure. With the current political climate and the total disgust with this administration, the passage of such an initiative could conceivably mean Republicans could be in office for the rest of my lifetime and beyond..a most depressing thought.

Still, the bottom line is this movement is having problems. Collecting enough signatures, and collecting enough funds to put it on the ballot. Following is a link I hope you find useful explaining what is going on currently..dated December 1, 2007

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-initiative1dec01,0,4010680,print.story?

Mapping Super Tuesday

Ron, Winchendon, MA — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 00:24:52 GMT

Senator Obama graduated from Columbia University with a degree in Political Science, specializing in International Relations.

While at Harvard he was elected President of the Harvard Law Review. He graduated from Harvard with a Juris Doctor degree (Post Graduate professional degree) magna cum laud.

He was a lecturer of constitutional law at the University of Chicago Law School from 1993 until his election to the U.S. Senate in 2004.He still maintains an office at the school for his use as a guest lecturer.

Others can fill in on his public work, which has been quite extensive, but his academic record is excellent.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Pam Bignardi, San Pedro, California — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 05:51:51 GMT

Laura, Groveland, FL (Sent Friday, January 11, 2008 10:57 PM)

Laura --I consider C A to be one of the finest people I have EVER had the privilege of knowing; he does not HATE anyone; it's not in him!! He is one of the kindest and most loving people I know; seriously, I am in awe of this wonderful person.

He puts passion into his posts; he has challenged my thinking; he has helped me grow spiritually and I truly love him!!

I MUST clarify that; we are dear friends and I would not trade that for anything in the world; people have differences at times --that's it; however, you have misjudged C A --I should NEVER have written anything about "hate" in that post; I was wrong; it was a long and emotional week --many here were on edge --no more, no less!!

Please, you have the wrong impression --

C A - You are my rock here and I truly love you; my apologies for any misunderstanding and for my words --you are the most awe-inspiring person I have ever known!!

PEACE C A - GOD BLESS YOU!!

Mapping Super Tuesday

Matt Las Cruces, NM — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 23:36:52 GMT

The problem with this analysis for the Dems is it is not a winner take all system. Therefore by how much a candidate wins their "base" states may matter more than whether or not Obama or Clinton carry California by a couple points.

I also would quibble about who has better support where. Obama is clearly favored in IL, and I would argue all southern states such as GA, AL, TN - since Clinton significantly lost the African-American vote to "undecided" in MI. Clinton is strongest in NY and the Dems only states. The real toss-ups are the Western ones that allow Independent voters, of which CA is the main prize. However, again, percetage of victory is more important than the numbers of states that are carried.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Charles Thompson, Poplar Bluff, Mo 63901 — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 18:53:07 GMT

Voters should understand that their "party" will back whomever is choosen as their candidate for the office of President. These voters should also realize that the candidate they pick should be the one that can attract indepent voters. As has been shown in the caucases and primaries so far, the indepent vote with be the swing vote that elects the President. Some of the candidates only appeal to solid party members and cannot gain enough support from moderate and indenpent voters to win the general election. If you are an informed voter, you know the candidate I am talking about. Most people in America are not truely and soley conservatives nor are the truely and soley liberals, Most are Modlicons,which is a mixture of moderates, liberals, and conservatives depending on the issue they are considering. Because of this the party the chooses a candidate the can speak to all will when the general election.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Charles Thompson, Poplar Bluff, Mo 63901 — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 18:59:17 GMT

Voters should understand that their "party" will back whomever is choosen as their candidate for the office of President. These voters should also realize that the candidate they pick should be the one that can attract indepent voters. As has been shown in the caucases and primaries so far, the independant vote will be the swing vote that elects the President. Some of the candidates, ie; Romeny, Thompson, Huckabee,Guliani and Hillary only appeal to solid party members and cannot gain enough support from moderate and independant voters to win the general election. Most people in America are not truely and soley conservatives nor are the truely and soley liberals, Most are Modlicons,which is a mixture of moderates, liberals, and conservatives depending on the issue they are considering. Because of this the party the chooses a candidate the can speak to all will when the general election.

Mapping Super Tuesday

Billy Cagle — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 19:40:08 GMT

"MY GOODNESS" Is everybody afraid to ask the Clintons,"If they plan to replace all the items,they took from the White House before Bush took over? And what would Bill be using the Oval Office for, when it wasn't being used for afficial buisness?

Mapping Super Tuesday

Matt Campos, Milton, Massachusetts — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 01:20:21 GMT

Can you just list the states in Super Tuesday???

Mapping Super Tuesday

Matt Campos, Milton, Massachusetts — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 01:20:51 GMT

Can you just list the states in Super Tuesday?

Mapping Super Tuesday

Matt Campos, Milton, Massachusetts — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 01:22:41 GMT

Can you just put on all the states in it?

Mapping Super Tuesday

KEKE — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 18:53:55 GMT

ALL I WANT TO SAY IS GO BARAK OBAMA!!!! WE NEED A MAN FOR CHANGE

Mapping Super Tuesday

TREVOR — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 22:45:46 GMT

GO BARACKA OBAMA