Jackson Free Press

He has launched his new presidential exploratory Web site, where you can read a transcript, or watch a video, of Obama explaining why he is (almost) in the race:

But challenging as they are, it's not the magnitude of our problems that concerns me the most. It's the smallness of our politics. America's faced big problems before. But today, our leaders in Washington seem incapable of working together in a practical, common sense way. Politics has become so bitter and partisan, so gummed up by money and influence, that we can't tackle the big problems that demand solutions. And that's what we have to change first. We have to change our politics, and come together around our common interests and concerns as Americans.

This won't happen by itself. A change in our politics can only come from you; from people across our country who believe there's a better way and are willing to work for it.

Previous Comments

ID

90896

Comment

As much as I like Obama, his position on sports leaves much to be desired: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/playoffs06/news/story?id=2732257 "The Bears are going to the Super Bowl," a gleeful Obama told reporters Monday outside a church in suburban Chicago. "I am happy for New Orleans. I think it's a wonderful story for their city, but this fairy tale ends when they come to Chicago."

Author

Darren Schwindaman

Date

2007-01-16T13:45:52-06:00

ID

90897

Comment

Yeah, I saw that black mark against him last night. Or, I should say, Todd read it to me with outrage.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-01-16T13:47:26-06:00

ID

90898

Comment

I'm trying to finish reading his book, "The Audacity of Hope," as I write this. I'm about half way through it. He's clearly smart and capable. I can't wait to see how he holds up to attacks. I didn't read his earlier book, Dreams From My Father. As I understand it, he has already talked about his use of cocaine and other youthful problems. It's be interesting to see if any of that is used against him. It's also be interesting to see if he will be looked upon as race-neutral since he's mixed in color, race and culture. I'm still hurt that the Chargers lost to the Patriots, a team I hate as much as the Cowboys for what what they'v done to the Steelers the last 11 or 12 years. I like the Bears and Saints but will have to go with Chicago or Indianapolis as the Super Bowl Winner. The Saints can win it all next year. For all that disagree, let me just say... Oh yeah, I know I'm supposed to be a big Hillary fan yet I admit I don't really know much about her personally beyond the connection to Donna's good friend, Bill. I can't wait to see what Hillary has to offer, if anything despite acknowledging the existence of "Clinton fatigue."

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-16T14:06:54-06:00

ID

90899

Comment

I meant it'll or it will. Sorry. I'm rushing and dumb.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-16T14:08:42-06:00

ID

90900

Comment

I think a good ticket will be a mix of Obama, Hilary and Edwards

Author

optimisticaboutNewJackCity

Date

2007-01-16T17:00:51-06:00

ID

90901

Comment

Would someone please tell me what qualifies Obama to be president?

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-16T17:32:37-06:00

ID

90902

Comment

True, he's never screwed up a baseball franchise.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-01-16T17:42:16-06:00

ID

90903

Comment

That was a serious question. I asked the same thing about John Edwards four years ago. Richardson. Different story. Has a resume, is qualified, and has paid his dues.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-16T17:44:37-06:00

ID

90904

Comment

King, he's smart, old enough, has face/name recognition and is well-liked enough so far to make a good run. And he didn't f-up Texas before running for president. Similarly, he's a Harvard Law graduate who was Editor and Chief of the Harvard Law Review. Better yet, he "wasn't born with a silver spoon in his mouth." And, King, if you read his book referenced above, he has some very good ideas about how to make us forget about your role model, lil' georgie bush, who is trying to force others to fight and die solely for the purpose of saving his legacy and image.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-16T18:16:14-06:00

ID

90905

Comment

And King, he doesn't walk like a cowboy who has been riding his horse too long. Or thrown off one time too many.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-16T18:22:34-06:00

ID

90906

Comment

Fish, Obama served in the Illinois State Senate and will have served about four years as U.S. senator by the time he's elected. For comparative purposes: - Theodore Roosevelt: A mere 18 months as governor of New York, plus six months as VP. - Ulysses S. Grant: Had never previously held elected office. - Dwight D. Eisenhower: Had never previously held elected office. Obama's political resume is, let's face it, not as strong as most of his opponents. So? He's young; this is to be expected. But let's look at what else he's done: - Taught constitutional law for 11 years at the University of Chicago Law School. - During the same period, worked for a civil rights law firm. - Directed a community service nonprofit in Chicago, focusing on the needs of Chicago's low-income residents. - Edited the Harvard Law Review. (You seem to think this gig is easy to get. It isn't.) What has Dubya done that tops that? Two terms as governor of Texas, won largely on the popularity of his father in a state that gives less power to its governor than almost any other? Owning the Texas Rangers? Hell, Dubya didn't even have a law degree, much less teach constitutional law for 11 fucking years. You really want to stack them up and say that Obama is less qualified to be president? Please. If you look at his career outside of politics, he's one of the best-qualified candidates we've had in years. Cheers, TH

Author

Tom Head

Date

2007-01-16T18:24:19-06:00

ID

90907

Comment

King, he admitted to doing drugs and didn't disapperar when duty called to fight for the country. He doesn't have a brother whose thievery bankrupted the savings and loans associations of Texas.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-16T18:28:04-06:00

ID

90908

Comment

Finally, King, he won't have to wear a microphone for others to tell how how to answer questions during a debate.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-16T18:31:46-06:00

ID

90909

Comment

He's well educated—and I betcha money knows the name of the Pakistani leader.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-01-16T18:32:08-06:00

ID

90910

Comment

LOL, Ray. I'd forgotten about microphone-gate. What a nightmare we have lived.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-01-16T18:33:37-06:00

ID

90911

Comment

I hope we helped you, king. We wouldn't want a lying and drunken idiot, moron and coward holding that job. It's far too important of a job to let that kind of fellow get elected. For, surely, unending lies and excuses would have to be made to protect him and his administration.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-16T18:36:31-06:00

ID

90912

Comment

And by the way, the Constitution clearly outlines the qualifications for President: - Naturalized citizen. Check. - Resident in the United States for at least 14 years. Check. - At least 35 years old. Check. And... - 270 electoral votes. Period. It doesn't have to be a career politician. It could be you. It could be me. (Well, in 2016 it could, anyway.) And frankly, I like the fact that Obama has done something other than run for office--teaching constitutional law, civil rights advocacy, and nonprofit work for the poor being far stronger qualifications, to my mind, than playing the political game. Wasn't that the whole problem with John Kerry--that he went straight from being a very young man in the military to being a career politician, with nothing in between and nothing else to offer voters? We need well-rounded candidates like Obama, not soulless glad-handers who don't know how to do anything but beg and capitulate. He's the first candidate with a serious civil rights resumé since--lord, forgive me for naming the only two serious black candidates in U.S. history--Jesse Jackson, with the strongest academic resumé since Adlai Stevenson, and he has some political experience to boot. He's a triple threat, Fish. You should be scared of this guy. Cheers, TH

Author

Tom Head

Date

2007-01-16T18:52:12-06:00

ID

90913

Comment

And Fish, if you read his book and study his speeches and political record, he's not the typical partisan politicans that just goes along with the crowd or party line. He makes decisions based on cerebration and critical thought which places him within and without the Democrat's line of thinking on a case by case consideration. He has republican and democrat friends and supporters. While in Illinois politics he made coalitons beyond and despite the issues of race, party and class. He's idealistic and very competent without the baggage of Jessie Jackson or others of similar talents. He embraces some government but not too much, supports new energy sources but understand the resistance, he understands the concerns of the rich and poor, he supports more money for education but knows money isn't the only issue with poor education, he has empathy and sympathy for the poor but knows it has to be tempered with some responsibility and accountability (rather than ignoring them completely), he understand the impact of FDR, Reagan and Clinton and if elected will propose/enact/consider the good tenets of each (although I don't think Reagan had any good in him), and he's not dumb enough to give tax breaks to only the rich, idiotic enough to cut off all regualtions toward the business/corporate word, and understand fiscal responsibility. Most of all, King, if someone runs a plane into the Twin Towers, Pentagon or other national monuments or buildings, he would head back to DC and get ready to fight instead of running off to a cave or hiding hole in Nebraska.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-16T19:20:27-06:00

ID

90914

Comment

Two terms as governor of Texas, won largely on the popularity of his father in a state that gives less power to its governor than almost any other? My joke about Bush as governor of Texas goes like this: "In Texas History, we learned that the Texas governor has more power than only one other governor in the U.S. -- the governor of Hawaii. And Hawaii has a king." - Todd

Author

Todd Stauffer

Date

2007-01-16T21:06:31-06:00

ID

90915

Comment

Speeches are nice. Books are nice. Interviews are nice. They are no subsitute for experience. In terms of a resume, his is rather lacking to be President. Edwards was just as lacking and neither one of them was qualified. Two years in the Senate and a few years in the state legislature is no qualification even if you do have degrees from the Ivy league. Hillary has been a Senator for awhile and was in the White House for 8 years. Richardson has been a governor and a Cabinet Secretary. There are other governors and senators with more experience and a stronger resume. His is rather empty when I look at qualifications for being President. Bush at least had served as the Governor of Texas, which is larger than most corporations. He had a record for us to look at even if you disagreed with it or thought it was a poor one. Barak has no such record besides debating, working as an activist, a professor and serving in legislatures for only a few years. Ray: Coward? I have news for you. Pilot training is VERY tough and VERY dangerous. If someone was trying to do the national guard thing and get out of service, there were easier gigs to get in the Guard. Calling such service cowardly is a slam on alot of brave reservists who have served as pilots and went through very tough training. Try going through SERE school and see if you think its for cowards. Tom: Ike was just the head of the Allied Forces for several years. I dare say he was pretty prepared for the presidency. The other examples are from a long time ago when the office is not what it is now. As for his record as an academic, its one thing to discuss theories and outcomes in an academic setting where everything works out. Its a much different story when you have to manage people, negotiate with opponents, make decisions, and lead. As for education, Bush, Gore, Clinton, Bush I, and most of our Presidents over the last few decades have been very well educated people. If you have noticed, I have not addressed his views or his politics. They are a non issue to me. I think he is not qualified.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-16T21:52:12-06:00

ID

90916

Comment

Let's not mistake Grant for an accomplished politican, please?

Author

Ironghost

Date

2007-01-16T22:04:21-06:00

ID

90917

Comment

Hehe. yeah, all the scandals of his administration. Very good example if you want to show how non politicians succeeded as President.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-16T22:07:16-06:00

ID

90918

Comment

I have a huge problem with Edwards. Please.... go back and run for fraternity president. The guy had the audacity to go shovel a bit of mud in New Orleans the day he announced. Come on... the hair didn't even move! Barak may meet the qualifications to be president; but, he is by far "qualified" to be president. Condi's resume runs circles around 90% of the candidates that have announced - including Hillary! But, that's irrelevant since she's not running. Irrelevant, but telling, at the same time. Also, there seems to be trouble ahead for Barak as shown in this article that ran in the Times Online UK. Civil rights leaders who have dominated black politics for much of the past two decades have pointedly failed to embrace the 45-year-old Illinois senator who is considering a bid to become America’s first black president. At a meeting of activists in New York last week, the Rev Jesse Jackson, the first black candidate to run for president, declined to endorse Obama. “Our focus right now is not on who’s running, because there are a number of allies running,” Jackson said. and then: “He’s a young man in many ways to be admired,” Belafonte said. “Obviously very bright, speaks very well, cuts a handsome figure. But all of that is just the king’s clothes. Who’s the king?” There were contrasting views on the likely impact on Obama’s campaign of black competition or criticism. One analyst argued that a Sharpton candidacy would “put Obama on the spot” by forcing him to address awkward civil rights issues such as police brutality and racial profiling that he tends to steer clear of. I'm tabula rasa this go around... somebody woo me...

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-01-16T22:51:01-06:00

ID

90919

Comment

New Orleans' football season is all but over. That's the message Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., has for Saints fans when their team comes to Chicago for Sunday's NFC Championship Game. That sucking noise you hear is the sound of 500,000+ Saints votes going down the drain. I can see the primary commercials in LA now if the Bears win. LOL!

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-01-16T23:01:22-06:00

ID

90920

Comment

In fact, we must mention this important campaign issue for Hillary.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-01-16T23:05:49-06:00

ID

90921

Comment

Kingfish writes: Ike was just the head of the Allied Forces for several years. I dare say he was pretty prepared for the presidency. In a constitutional democracy, I'd say that a constitutional law professorship and civil rights litigation make for much better preparation for the presidency than military office. If this were a military dictatorship, then of course the situation would be very different. And my point re: Grant is not that he made a good president, but that he was obviously not perceived as underqualified. Cheers, TH

Author

Tom Head

Date

2007-01-16T23:09:16-06:00

ID

90922

Comment

It was widely know he had zero political experience, had baggage in his rumored antisemitism, and pushed patronage to new heights. He tolerated his friends scandals, and protecting them from punishment while blasting critics for attacking his guilty friends. Grant made a few good decisions, but no one's a complete moron. His legacy is irredeemable, however.

Author

Ironghost

Date

2007-01-17T00:11:01-06:00

ID

90923

Comment

I do wonder if this is Obama's time. I worry he is much like J.C. Watts, named the darling of the Republican party and a candidate for VP with Bush's first term. A lot of media attention, without a lot of reason. (As an individual who was around J.C., I do NOT wish to insult Obama in the comparison), I just worry that he has become a quick darling media driven candidate that emerges before he is ready. His legal qualifications are very impressive, and he is a wonderful speaker. Granted, as many attorneys I am sure will attest, law school and academic honors are great, but a great attorney (or person) in actual practice, they do not make. I am intersted in Obama. I hope he does well and we will all see. The electorate will determine if he is a candidate and determine his qualifications. I just hope the Democrats nominate a strong candidate, whoever he or she is. (But they better be Saints fans!!!!!) LOL AGamma627

Author

AGamm627

Date

2007-01-17T00:28:13-06:00

ID

90924

Comment

The A students are the professors, the C students in law school make all the money.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-17T00:43:11-06:00

ID

90925

Comment

I'd like to remind everybody on this page of something that a buddy of mine reminded me of earlier today . . . that no senator has been elected elected president since JFK and he only served for two years as well. I didn't do any checking of my own, but my buddy pretty much knows what he is talking about. People with a long political history have too much political baggage--people like Obama have a better chance of making it because there's less 'dirt' to dig up from prior votes etc when people changed their mind (flip-flopping) (which by the way i personally don't think its a terrible thing for people to realize they've been wrong--but that's another blog another time). Personally, I might vote for Obama unless Rudy makes it out of the RNC primaries.

Author

djames

Date

2007-01-17T01:35:14-06:00

ID

90926

Comment

but on the quote at the top of the page . . . i've heard it before and from both parties, and frankly, i don't see much avenue for real change despite who the next president is, despite who's in the house or the senate. The Washington power structure has become to rigid and entrenched. But maybe one day it'll start toppling underneath it's own weight and we might see some sensible progress made in this country. ojr

Author

djames

Date

2007-01-17T01:37:44-06:00

ID

90927

Comment

Most of all, King, if someone runs a plane into the Twin Towers, Pentagon or other national monuments or buildings, he would head back to DC and get ready to fight instead of running off to a cave or hiding hole in Nebraska. Ray, that's call "Protocol". The President is supposed to be in the air in event of attack on the US. Considering also the probable destination of Flight 93, it was for the best they put the President elsewhere until the dust settled.

Author

Ironghost

Date

2007-01-17T09:54:23-06:00

ID

90928

Comment

I was surprised Ray made that comment. I'll assume he was being a smart alec.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-17T10:27:46-06:00

ID

90929

Comment

Neither Clinton, Carter (nether he nor me), Johnson and Kennedy would have run into a hiding hole like a little stick wussy boy despite any so-called protocol. By the time he went into hiding, we knew what the situation was. King, he's a coward because he fled to keep from fighting at least twice. As Emily would say you're either packing a big one or a liitle one. Folks with little ones always run for fear of being found out. Grant was a good president and and excellent soldier. Thank you, Mr. Grant. Obama won't lose a single open-minded and fair Saints fan. When the Saints lose it will all be forgotten. If the Saints win he will be considered merely a lover of Chicago and the Bears. I don't blame Hillary for being a Yankees fan - the greatest baseball team in the history of baseball. Count the wins, players in the hall of fame, national championships, et al. Obama likely won't win much in the south for obvious reasons that have nothing to do with the Saints. Yet I expect him to do better than the last couple of Democrats down here because a growing number of southerners are riding themselves of the blind southern disease of racism, and the stupid support of republicans although the candidate is clearly an ignoramus and ignominious person. Soon, y'all are going to see he's not your typical gutless Democrat, and many southerners are going to support him on his merits. Damn Jessie Jackson, Al Sharpton and others. They're mad because he's not beholding and controlled by them. Obama also is not your typical black person either. His multi-racial identity gives him a perspective that is different and more complicated than the average American of any race would have. Jessie and Al can't shake him down so they won't hurriedly support him. They will support him in the end. Belafonte just want to see that he's a real man. Once he sees that, he'll support him.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T10:47:41-06:00

ID

90930

Comment

Don't be surprised I said it King. I got juice. There is a time for the president to follow protocol. That wasn't it in my opinion.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T11:05:54-06:00

ID

90931

Comment

They remind me of the Blacks who would call into that MPR call in show on Friday nights calling Ruben an Uncle Tom for going to work at Phelps Dunbar, saying he was bought off by the white folks. As for Bush, Ray, that crap is beneath you. There is an attack on the Pentagon and other planes were targeted towards Congress and the White House. At the time there was some confusion over whether they had inside info or not. Anyway, between the secret service and military, he wasn't going to be allowed to go back to DC at that point in time. But hey, if you want your leader to be like Muhammed Ali standing in the ring saying i'm the greatest, i'm pretty, i'm bad, come and get me go ahead and think that way. Its just not smart when you are under attack and don't know where the next blow is coming from.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-17T11:07:34-06:00

ID

90932

Comment

I'd like to remind everybody on this page of something that a buddy of mine reminded me of earlier today . . . that no senator has been elected elected president since JFK and he only served for two years as well. I don't think *that* is Barack's biggest challenge. It's not like a black man has ever been elected president. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-01-17T11:08:57-06:00

ID

90933

Comment

I don't think that was beneath Ray at all, King. I, too, think Bush showed no leadership or courage that day. It's fair to point that out.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-01-17T11:10:58-06:00

ID

90934

Comment

I also think it is fair to point out that the White House and Capitol Hill were selected targets also. Anyone who was in combat will tell you that heroes usually get their azz shot off. Going back to a scene where you don't know what else is coming in to attack you when the job can be done effectively somewhere else is smart. One of the doctrines taught in our military is to go after the command of the enemy in combat, which AQ was doing that day. If such is the case, you keep your command mobile so the enemy can not get a fix so they can strike. As he was an obvious target, the first thing to do is get him to a place of safety where the chances of an attack are very low if possible.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-17T11:14:44-06:00

ID

90935

Comment

Frankly Ms Ladd, you and Ray are both wrong. Secret Service procedures are to NOT allow the President to return to a "hot"zone. The President's wishes have little to do with that decision.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-17T11:16:56-06:00

ID

90936

Comment

Frankly Kingfish, you're not listening to me. (And the thought that *you* would think I'm "wrong" rather delights me.) I actually didn't say he should have immediately returned to one particular place. The problem is that he acted like a coward and showed no leadership. Even the footage of when he was told was absurd. This was not a leader. Then again, everyone knows at this point that Bush is not a leader. I just wished enough people would have figured it out sooner.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-01-17T11:19:11-06:00

ID

90937

Comment

King, we (the American Public) needed to see strength from our Commander in Chief. There isn't anyway our fighter pilots would have let a plane or bomb get near Air Force One or any place Bush was located after the Twin Towers and Petagon were hit. Michael Moore clearly showed Bush's weaknesses although I don't blame Bush for not showing public panic while at that school.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T11:21:18-06:00

ID

90938

Comment

Ray was wrong for writing what he did when it was secret service that will not allow a President to return to a hot zone. It could've been Clinton or Gore and the result would've been the same. As for leadership, I think Bush was surprised and shocked like everyone else was. I dont' think he performed as well as Rudy did that day but then Rudy didn't have a secret service keeping him away either. I think they honestly did not know what was going on or what might happen next and alot of time was spent trying to figure out what was going on. However, Rudy was also focused on more immediate needs that were directly in front of him and didn't have the big picture to look at like Bush did. Bush's response is typical when the enemy achieves complete strategic and tactical surprise which is why I am not as harsh on him. I think its wrong to accuse him of a lack of leadership when under attack and surprise has been achieved. I think most military people will agree with me on that one. however, the thought that I was able to delight you pleases me to no end. ;-)

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-17T11:25:47-06:00

ID

90939

Comment

Ray: there was another plane we knew of headed towards DC and until the FAA grounded the planes, we had no idea how many more were going to be used either. Plus, as they had achieved total surprise, we did not know if anything else was planned.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-17T11:27:20-06:00

ID

90940

Comment

Neither Clinton, Carter (nether he nor me), Johnson and Kennedy would have run into a hiding hole like a little stick wussy boy despite any so-called protocol. By the time he went into hiding, we knew what the situation was. King, he's a coward because he fled to keep from fighting at least twice. Ray He was in Washington and addressing the US by 8pm that day. Doesn't sound like running to me. And you are flat out wrong if you don't think that the secret service/military have a protocol they follow when there is danger on US soil - especially if the President (rep/dem/indy, man/woman, black/white/yellow) is not in Washington when problems arise. I don't blame Hillary for being a Yankees fan - the greatest baseball team in the history of baseball. Ray Then explain why she first said she grew up a Cubs fan - you know being from Chicago and all.... It's called pandering to your crowd. Like Melton does.... Obama likely won't win much in the south for obvious reasons that have nothing to do with the Saints. Yet I expect him to do better than the last couple of Democrats down here because a growing number of southerners are riding themselves of the blind southern disease of racism, So, if Obama captures 95% of the black democratic votes is that because he is clearly more qualified than Hillary or Edwards? I'm sure there is no way African-Americans vote for Obama just because he is black. Come on Ray... your argument cuts hard both ways on this one... Your not wrong... But, you are ignoring the blind loyalty that goes the other way too. Damn Jessie Jackson, Al Sharpton and others. They're mad because he's not beholding and controlled by them. Obama also is not your typical black person either. His multi-racial identity gives him a perspective that is different and more complicated than the average American of any race would have. Jessie and Al can't shake him down so they won't hurriedly support him. Ray I agree Ray. But, does that mean you think that Obama, and black leaders like him, can better represent African Americans from here forward? The similar local paradigm would be the "Mill St. Posse" who many perceive does more harm than good locally, verses the more progressive African American leaders we have (and can have) locally. Just wondering? I don't think having Belfonte on your bad side is a bad thing. That guy is a lost cause. The good thing is I don't see Obama pandering to the Jesse Jackson's for support during the election which is good for American progress; but, potentially bad with those who vote old school. We'll have to see how that all plays out. When the Clinton Machine is done with Obama, he may not even be able to get reelected to the Senate. Evil, evil, evil are the Clinton's. That article I posted is a preview of one of the routes Hillary and gang will use to slowly discredit Obama to the voters - especially the loyal democratic minority voters. I hope she implodes from it! So, don't think I am flat out against Obama at this point; I'm just giving you the political operative views of Obama and challenges he may face.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-01-17T11:31:05-06:00

ID

90941

Comment

Kingfish, it's sweet to watch you try to cover for our fearless president. Unconvincing, but sweet.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-01-17T11:31:12-06:00

ID

90942

Comment

Do you have any idea how combat situations work?

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-17T11:32:54-06:00

ID

90943

Comment

Yes. (Note: Condescension doesn't work. Try another strategy.)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-01-17T11:35:47-06:00

ID

90944

Comment

Yet King we have the technology to know what's in the air and to shoot it down if need be. After some person hits the Pentagon and US buildings somebody is going to have hell to pay. Ruby acted with courage and fight, Bush didn't - it's that simple. I admit, a protocol was in place, and I bet he was oh so glad there were. If we can't protect the president unless he's in a hiding hole, we're screwed anyway. I know he was shocked. We all were. I expect you to get over the shock soon and start fighting back. He's a proud and ostentatious Commander in Chief when the action is thousands of mile away. Bring the action nearby and he runs like a scared president. Isn't this exactly what has happened?

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T11:35:53-06:00

ID

90945

Comment

Ray Carter, thanks for making my point about Obama and his public stroking of the team he has supported for years. I don't think that anyone worth his salt would stoop low enough to vote against a man because of his support of the team from the State he presently represent. These comments, among others, are simply talking points that media will use to help defeat him if he should run for president. Last month, certain media were trying to figure out if there is a genetic relationship to Hussein. Obama's middle name is Hussein. I sent him an e -mail assuring him that every child born to the world is given a name by someone and that at birth, the child is totally unaware, helpless and with absolutely no control about what he is named or who has named him. I went on to explain that there is more than one Dalmer, more than one Williams, more than one Capone, more than one Segal, more than one Nixon, more than one Hitler, and if his name were george w. bush, well thinking people would evaluate the person before assuming that he too was a dumb a$$. Both Jessie and Al have a very strong sense of entitlement as it relates to being the A-American to take center stage in the 2008 election. I think when it is all said and done, they will give Obama his just deserves. I hope that this country has advanced far enough in race relations that Blacks in the race will not have to run faster than Jackie Robinson, be even smarter than Charles Drew or sing better than Michael Jackson. I hope that his ice does not have to be colder, his sugar - sweeter. These, in the past, have been the expectations for Black folks. You have gotta be better than the best!

Author

justjess

Date

2007-01-17T11:38:39-06:00

ID

90946

Comment

Bush's response is typical when the enemy achieves complete strategic and tactical surprise which is why I am not as harsh on him. I think its wrong to accuse him of a lack of leadership when under attack and surprise has been achieved. I think most military people will agree with me on that one. KF Yeah, that kinda blows holes in MoreRockin's conspiracy theories. If the Pres. and his men orchestrated 911, then they would have known it was safe to go on back to Washington immediately! Also, I'm waiting for someone to complain that our Congress members showed no leadership the way they scrambled from the Capital on 911, and then during the false bomb threat a month later! ;-p Finally, I guess we have to ask... "What would Gore of done?" ROTFLMAO!!!!! He would have spoke to the people from the depths of NORAD in Colorado! LOL! "Umm, Mr. President, you can come out from under the covers now. You need to address the public." "Are you sure?" "Can I have a peanut butter and banana sandwich first?" ;-)

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-01-17T11:42:51-06:00

ID

90947

Comment

But, does that mean you think that Obama, and black leaders like him, can better represent African Americans from here forward? The similar local paradigm would be the "Mill St. Posse" who many perceive does more harm than good locally, verses the more progressive African American leaders we have (and can have) locally. Now, this is a much more interesting direction. So far at least, I certainly think Obama would represent blacks better than people who try to gain power by being anti-white (I'll add for the record that I don't think Jackson and Sharpton always do that; I've admired some of their tactics. But, still, they also go too far.) I also think Obama would represent whites well. And people of other races. The problem with folks like our local purveyors of the Brown Society is that they are willing to sell out their own people for their own power (which is rather the textbook definition of being an Uncle Tom, right?). It's one thing to, as an African American, to ensure that the needs and rights of fellow African Americans are being met and represented. It's another to take advantage of your fellow blacks by using your race to divide them from the people who are working to overcome divisions. The biggest irony locally, of course, is the Mill Street Posse is a big supporter of Frank Melton—who, more than anybody I've seen in a long time, seems perfectly willing to sell out people of his own race and their rights (other than the ones he chooses to help) in order to build power. He has used the racism of white people to get where he is today, and that is very tragic. That makes him no better than a white southern strategist. Interesting today that Stokes is p!ssed off that Melton is hiring Leland Speed to work for the city. Mill Street *hates* Leland Speed, and sees him as a symbol of the white Jackson that they hate. Meantime, they worked with their enemies to get Melton elected. My impression is that both "sides" thought he would dump the other side once he was elected. In truth, he has dumped both, and the whole city. That will continue to play out.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-01-17T11:43:43-06:00

ID

90948

Comment

Pike, I don't know what you're talking about. I expect many black folks to say at some point Obama is black enough. I bet he's been told that many times and has learned to ignore it for waht it is. We are as varied as our hues. Yes, we usually vote together. We're splitting up more than ever. Believe it or not Pike, there is one subject Black folks know well from being in the United States of America for centuries. We know a racist and hateful white person when we see one.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T11:50:02-06:00

ID

90949

Comment

As Kim Wade likes to say, "Until we vote our interest, and not just based on party or color, then we deserve what we get." Or something like that! ;-) Obama may really be the breath of fresh air we need in the US. I'm worried he may go far left instead of towards the middle once elected. We need a democrat that will not be held to the whims of a democratic congress should a democrat win. We've been doing that same party stuff rubber stamp stuff for a while now. Good for taxes and your paycheck with the Repub's, just not good for public policy.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-01-17T11:59:21-06:00

ID

90950

Comment

I agree with Donna. My last comment goes to explaining why we tend to vote for what we think is our best interest. Once we don't have to worry about mere survival, violence, or tricks you will see more splintering among us.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T12:02:21-06:00

ID

90951

Comment

Also I believe Obama is going to be above or beyond race politics yet not blind to it which is why I also like him.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T12:03:53-06:00

ID

90952

Comment

Yeah, Ray, that's what I like to. Pike, my suggestion is to abandon the left-middle-right paradigm. It just doesn't work anymore, and it's what is alienating so many voters.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-01-17T12:05:44-06:00

ID

90953

Comment

The truth of my 10:35 comment has overwhelmed and silenced Kingfish. The truth is like that.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T12:08:22-06:00

ID

90954

Comment

Truth? No, malarkey. First of all, we have not had a president under such a direct military threat in a long time. There is no standard to compare his behaviour to in terms of how Past Presidents would've reacted. Second, he was not allowed by the Secret Service to return to a hot zone. third, the flaw in your premise is in airborne attacks. We have fighters in the air that neutralize the airborne threat. There are things called Stinger Missiles, RPG's, mortars, etc. There are ways to attack Bush that do not involve the use of aircraft that could be easily smuggled here. Suppose they had inside info that told them where president was likely to go in case of attack and had made plans to attack him in that event as well? Your claim has no basis in fact and ignores many real possibilities. AF1 has communications with all military and government assets so Bush was not cut off nor was he hiding. The rules are to keep him moving. If you are moving you are not a target. As for the shock and Rudy, Rudy was not considered a likely target like Bush was that day. You say fight back. That day fight back against what? We first had to figure out what the hell was and was not taking place. They achieved total surprise and Bush acted as he should have, get out of harms way, figure out what is going on, then address the nation and take action. As it turned out, there was not much he could do that day as the attacks had already taken place. I take that back. He could've thrown Orrin Hatch in Jail for saying we knew it was Bin Laden from intercepted cellphone communications. Real bright. THAT is when members of COngress should shut up.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-17T12:18:35-06:00

ID

90955

Comment

by the way, I hope Obama is going to be ok. When the jihadists find out his family converted from Islam they will not like that. They take a rather extreme view on converts.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-17T12:23:20-06:00

ID

90956

Comment

Why did Bush stop moving on Air Force One and go into the hiding hole then? Why did he go so many places other than DC. I know Airforce One is a command center without known peers. He could have said damn protocol and returned earlier had he wished too. I'll bet my last dollar on that. Who's running this thing Secret Service or Bush. I understand deferring to them in moments of disarray for safety. When the disarray is gone, what's next. Neither of us have inside information on exactly what happened therefore my view is as valid as yours. Rudy and many more hadn't faced a crisis like this either. Clearly, the president had greater concerns and responsibilities than Rudy or any of us, so I don't blame him too much for his actions. I simply believe he acted weakly and cowardly. Even you won't accuse him of acting bravely or valiant under the circumstances, will you?

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T12:37:42-06:00

ID

90957

Comment

Abandon the left-middle-right paradigm? Can you tell me what the paradigm should be? Cindy Sheehan, MoveOn, SwiftBoat Vets for Truth, MinuteMen, ELF, Christian right, hawk, dove, secular.... Call me when we even get close to a middle ground or a person who is truly independent. For one person the middle ground (or perfect candidate) may be a gun toting, pro choice, pro war, pro social programs, Buddist, married. And to another, the middle may be an, anti gun, pro choice, prayer in school, anti war, Christian and single. That's the paradigm! Instead we are forced to choose between two absolute political philosophies that only represent a fringe fraction of both sides. The rest get stuck voting while holding their nose. Not to mention how both parties try to run to the middle during the elections even though we know they are blowing smoke up our shirts. Also, would Condi or any other African American republicans be above race politics? The history shows they try to be. But, then they get called Uncle Toms, sell outs, etc... Who usually points this out? Jesse, Sharpton, etc... It will be a good day in America when these types of attacks end. BTW: Did you ever see a congress person challenge Madelin Albright that she couldn't understand the war in Kosovo because she didn't have children? Oh what would have happened if a congressman had done that to Madelin? Holy hell I tell ya! When the two parties can drop their hypocrisies then we may have a chance to find a common ground, and place where America votes the best candidate.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-01-17T12:44:15-06:00

ID

90958

Comment

I'd accuse him of doing what he should've done, which is get out of harm's way when you are a target and then figure out what the hell is going on, especially when you have just paralyzed the nations economy by shutting down all air travel, if t he terrorists may attack that same day with or without WMD's (sarin would be a great weapon) and trying to determine when DC is not a target.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-17T12:45:01-06:00

ID

90959

Comment

You're making my point for me, Pike. Right now, we have to choose between (artificial" "extremes," or be part of the squishy, uninformed middle that chooses candidates based on what color suits they wear. Sounds to me like you're tired of that system, too, eh? But you can be part of the solution—by staying focused on issues and not, say, wishing out loud that Barack doesn't "move too far to the left" (or to "the right"). That's a meaningless sound bite at this point that plays into this problem. Help us stay focused on issues and don't let the extremes have so much power by playing that game.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-01-17T12:52:08-06:00

ID

90960

Comment

I thought that comment about Condi not having children was too much too although I think it might influence decisions in many instances. Condi appears to care what happens to the country and our soldiers. She simply has a job where you're expected to follow orders without any independence or straying, in my opinion. I'd rather dig ditches than take that job. I won't even mention teach at Stanford.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T12:52:14-06:00

ID

90961

Comment

King, Bush may have been an original target as evidence by a reported desire to hit the White House. He likely wasn't any target after that, but I understand thought that if you're attacking the country he's an indirect target.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T12:56:37-06:00

ID

90962

Comment

My point is is that at that point in time you don't know if he is a target or not, you assume he is. If he is in DC, you don't know if they know where he would be taken and have plans to hit it. Remember the IRA and its mortar attacks from vans? At the time we didn't know if any more attacks were coming and from what sources. At that point you assume they are coming.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-01-17T13:06:46-06:00

ID

90963

Comment

BTW: What's up with falsely call me a racist when all I am doing to pointing out what you can watch on CNN, the nightly news, or read in the papers/internet. This is the first time that we have really had the opportunity to choose between a woman or an African-American (or an African-American Woman!!) for President with any real chance of winning. So the time is now to talk openly about the problems that they will confront - be it race, sex, politics, the racial perception of the voting public, past trends, and why certain people vote as they do. Talk to the hand, Ray if that's all you got! I thought you were better than that? Don't you know that the political operatives who run these campaigns do the same thing, and base some of what their candidate does or says on those issues? The media, and minority leaders, even challenged Tiger Woods about his race and he isn't even a freaking politician. If we can't expect to change people minds about race without uncomfortable talk (as is said on here all the time), then how are we going to change the minds of voters without the same frankness?

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-01-17T13:10:12-06:00

ID

90964

Comment

I think that Boxer was dead on target with Coni when she acknowledged the fact that her children were too old and grans are too young to fight this war. She then said that Condi, because she doesn't have kids, in so many words, does not have a dog in this fight. Let's just be honest. I lived through the Viet Nam draft and participated in the sorrow and loss of so many of my college friends to include the death of the man I was engaged to - Killed in action! I am the mother of sons and I won't lie about my feeling about them being drafted into a war that is predicated on a lie - a war that is unwinnable - a war that has been so self-serving to some but a horror story for the many. I'm with Charles Rangle. Institute a draft and see just how long this war will go on. I am also reminded of the unfair process of draft selection and it was not by accident that certain sons were priviledged while others were without options.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-01-17T13:16:30-06:00

ID

90965

Comment

But you can be part of the solution—by staying focused on issues and not, say, wishing out loud that Barack doesn't "move too far to the left" (or to "the right"). Ladd Agreed. But, this is what the media is doing, not Pike. I certainly don't know any more about Obama than what is fed to me through he intertubes. We don't want lull ourselves into false sense of security because he's "hot" right now. The media's darling today is their whipping post the next. We must hash out the "why's" while we talk about the issues, so we will know we are making the right choice. Let's not forget, its been a long time since a politician actually did what they say, so all are suspect right now.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-01-17T13:21:17-06:00

ID

90966

Comment

I know, Pike. I'm just warning you not to play into it too much, being that "moving to the left" or "to the right" these days means nothing without context. So if all of us demand a focus on the issues, we will help our country move past this artificial political stalemate preferred by extremists. And, if we push for this, and take the power away from corporate media gatekeepers—who LOVE either-or fights—then we will get a better calibre of politician.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-01-17T13:34:24-06:00

ID

90967

Comment

I didn't call you a racist at all, explicitly or implicitly. I said that to only show that black folks historically voted together based on concerns about survival, violence, and tricks. I don't know anyone I ever talked to here that I will call a racist. Pike, I actually find you to be an open-minded republican.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T13:39:38-06:00

ID

90968

Comment

Pike you totally misunderstood me. Perhaps I wasn't clear. I was rushing when I posted that and perhaps I didn't explain it enough. That comment went only to why we seemed to vote as a block as black people. We're afraid of racist whit people, and as soon as we see signs of that, we will join hands and fight against that person. I'm all for discussing race and sex. My recod here proves it. Many would argue that I discuss these subjects, especially race, too much. Hopefully, you were the only person who misinterpreted me.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T13:45:06-06:00

ID

90969

Comment

Sorry, Ray. I thought you were singling me out. You are right that many a racist will be voting that way and are not hard to spot. Just listen to some of the asses that call into Larry or Kim's show. Remember "Jacfica" Ladd? That brings up a good point. I was watching "Hannity's America" when they had a discussion about race with Patrice O'Neal, a comedian, who is a regular commentator. (Hey...Trump was on to bash Rosie) He made a great point! He said, Jews have Hitler to hate - a specific person. Therefore, it is easier to move on - reconcile. For black Americans, he said, "all we got is a color to hate." There isn't a specific incident or person per say to lash out at. So, you hate the color. It was a really good discussion, and I thought he was dead on. Hannity left little to be desired in his argument. I'd post the interview if I could; but, FOX's page sux. I hope I am doing his argument justice? But, I digress from Obama. I guess my main point will be, I think it is going to be interesting to watch the Democrats who support Hillary dance with Obama and his supporters. She's already tap dancing a bit now.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-01-17T14:16:16-06:00

ID

90970

Comment

One final comment before moving on. To call someone racist, in my opinion, is a very strong and damaging comment. I wouldn't do it without much unquestionable proof. Pike, I had pretty much ignored your comments in favor of sparring with Kingfish. Personally, I believe and know that many black folks would vote for Obama because he's black as long as he doesn't show hatred or resentment toward us. He doesn't even have to promise us anything. Many, if not most, would assume that he would work in our best interest because he's black. This certainly isn't any guarantee, but many of us would fall for it. Many and indeed most black folks voted for Clinton because we thought he wasn't hateful or adverse to us. We knew he had a country to run, desired to get re-elected, loved white folks too, and his duty was beyond the special interests of any race, but we still felt he wouldn't act racially hateful or harmful toward us. Even with modifications to welfare, affirmitive actions and other matters, we didn't start to dislike Clinton. He always acted like he cared for us. Politically astute blacks knew Clinton had to change positions on some issues because he was wrong and in the interest of survival. The same argument can be made for many other presidents we voted for. Some blacks will vote against Obama for party and other reasons. Obama still has to prove he's worth black and white folk's votes to get elected. He probably has an inbuilt advantage for us unless he messes it up. I hope you understand this response better.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T14:25:46-06:00

ID

90971

Comment

I came into this process a Feingold supporter, went completely agnostic when he dropped out, and am now beginning to get swept up in Obama-mania, though maybe not quite for the same reasons most people are. It excites me, personally, to have a civil rights litigator and constitutional law professor in the White House--particularly one who's cosmopolitan in many ways (did someone in this thread remark about how he said his family reunions look like U.N. assemblies?), who has Islam in his family background, and so forth. After a president who prided himself on not giving a damn about anybody's culture but our own, I think we need Barack Obama. He is quite possibly the only candidate who can repair our public image on the world stage. I don't like Joe Biden; never have. He's too slick, and he never apologized for that borderline racist remark (which shouldn't surprise me, since it wasn't his first). Hillary Rodham Clinton is too wrapped up in her husband's legacy. Chris Dodd is one of my favorite senators, but I don't think he's electable. John Edwards is too smarmy, and off camera he has a mean streak a mile wide. Wesley Clark might make a good VP candidate, but he lacks presence. If I had to put up a ticket tomorrow, it'd be Obama/Clark. But Obama belongs at the top of the 2008 Democratic ticket. He's the only candidate who has the "it" factor that Clinton had in '92--the first candidate of either party who has had that since then, actually. Cheers, TH

Author

Tom Head

Date

2007-01-17T14:27:09-06:00

ID

90972

Comment

And Obama has to prove he's worth the votes of other races, too.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T14:28:10-06:00

ID

90973

Comment

The most gratifying philosophy coming from Senator Obama during the National Democratic Convention was, "There are no BLUE STATES or RED STATES; there is The UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!" It follows as the night the dayas it relates to RACE because he is of both; there is no exclusive WHITE RACE or exclusive BLACK RACE for him: There is only the HUMAN RACE.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-01-17T14:57:06-06:00

ID

90974

Comment

I'll vote for any person of any race who choose to see us as the human race. This ought to be the goal of all of us. It has always been mines. I worte a paper about this in high School that the teacher tore up and gave me a C grade for. She did it in love though as she feared it would cause racial problems for me and everyone else. I just wonder why she didn't give me a B or A. The teacher was a black female and arguably my favorite teacher. She even invited me back to speak to her class after I graduated from all schools. I bet I got a C for all my mis-spellings and bad grammar, too. Y'all should have seen it back then. I think she was mostly afraid the whites would think I was advocating cross-racial dating in 1973 or 1974, a thing that scared the crap out of many whites and some blacks.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-17T15:12:11-06:00

ID

90975

Comment

Everybody should watch out when it comes to media relations in this race. OPRAH the queen of the talk show and media who was once a journalist has endorced Obama. The NAACP has been discredited in my mind by moving away from their original mission which was to help minorities. The NAACP should be helping not only blacks, but ever other ethnic group in this day and time -- especially latinos, American arabs, and homosexuals all of which seem to be facing increased prejudism in our current world -- and their leadership should mirror that. The NAACP was started as a multiethnic organization largely with the help of caucasians. I laughed at Al and Jesse for running. Obama is different and he deserves consideration like ever other candidate. Look no further than the clarionledger.com for the possible attacks he might face as seen from a forum topic. Here's the link: http://forum.clarionledger.com/viewtopic.php?t=961

Author

optimisticaboutNewJackCity

Date

2007-01-17T17:00:04-06:00

ID

90976

Comment

OANJC: That link is exactly why I stopped posting on the CL boards. Ugh!

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-01-17T18:07:14-06:00

ID

90977

Comment

Will vote for the best guy as time will tell. Not enough info to determine this early. And frankly, I can hardly tell the difference between a democrat or republican other than the red herring issues they throw out for the mob to consume. Someone mentioned that being an outsider might be a plus. I agree, maybe before he's bought, he can effect change. But running a Presidential campaign involves nine figures. You've got be become a slave to someone to get that kinda cash.

Author

Doc Rogers

Date

2007-01-17T23:37:11-06:00

ID

90978

Comment

I'd like to remind everybody on this page of something that a buddy of mine reminded me of earlier today . . . that no senator has been elected elected president since JFK and he only served for two years as well. I don't think *that* is Barack's biggest challenge. It's not like a black man has ever been elected president. ;-) I think you missed my point. i was trying to say that serving in the senate for a long time is not an asset in a political campaign for president. BECAUSE he has not served in the senate for a long time and has very little national political baggage, he would probably have a better chance of winning. Why did he go so many places other than DC. I know Airforce One is a command center without known peers. He could have said damn protocol and returned earlier had he wished too. I'll bet my last dollar on that. Who's running this thing Secret Service or Bush. That, my friend, would be a bad bet. In times of attack on the United States with a certainly justifiable threat to Washington DC, the president has no choice. The secret service IS in charge then. For example, if a sniper shoots at the white house, the secret service will forcibly drag the president (if they have to) to a place of safety and keep him there until it is considered safe again--despite the presidents own wishes. This was developed as policy because during times of crisis, the last thing this country needs is to lose the military command structure -- which ends with the president. It is certainly in the interest of national security and is the smart thing to do. Stupid heroism gets a lot of people killed unnecessarily. OJR

Author

djames

Date

2007-01-18T00:20:00-06:00

ID

90979

Comment

King, Bush may have been an original target as evidence by a reported desire to hit the White House. He likely wasn't any target after that, but I understand though that if you're attacking the country he's an indirect target. That seems logical, but who said that the enemy is always logical. After all, committing suicide by flying jumbo jets in to the world trade center isn't really the action of people who care very much about logic. And besides, terrorism has been more about symbolism rather than inflicting any actual damage; so the president--the symbolic leader of the American people--would certainly seem like a direct target for terrorism.

Author

djames

Date

2007-01-18T00:27:05-06:00

ID

90980

Comment

that is why, we can assume, the terrorists chose the world trade center as well--because they stood as a symbol of American economic superiority and as the center for the commercialism, globalization, and economic "Americanization" or their countries to which they object so strenuously.

Author

djames

Date

2007-01-18T00:29:48-06:00

ID

90981

Comment

Doc Rogers, Obama, in his book talked about raising money, the absolute need of money to win, not letting power change you, and refusing to be bought by special interest. He has a real high opinion of senator Byrd and some of the other old fellows. Byrd's past is forgotten with me and Obama as Byrd has clearly repudiated and denounced it. If Obama runs, and does well in the debates and so on maybe he'll be lucky again and win the biggest political job of all. He admits luck played a great part in his winning a senate seat since he ran against a well financed and personally wealthy person.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-01-18T11:34:36-06:00

ID

90982

Comment

Novak on Democratic Race today: http://www.suntimes.com/news/novak/252996,CST-EDT-novak12.article

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-02-12T12:48:32-06:00

ID

90983

Comment

This is a pretty good one written by John Fund that makes some good points about the 2008 race and what can occur between now and then. http://www.opinionjournal.com/diary/?id=110009655

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-02-12T13:00:12-06:00

ID

90984

Comment

Well, King, that makes you one of about three people in the U.S. who still take Bob Novak seriously. ...

Author

Brian C Johnson

Date

2007-02-12T13:04:06-06:00

ID

90985

Comment

This seems more about the Democrats than Obama whose announcement speech I listened to this Saturday. I still think he has good ideas and will build a coalition of various kinds and races of people that will be galvanizing. Yet I know there is a racist and conservative element that is zenophobic and won't accept him unless he embraces their bigoted and white supremacy pedagogy or ideals. I was touched by his speech and ability to move people beyond race but not very much about his making the speech where Mr. Lincoln made his many decades ago. Not all black people believe Mr. Lincoln is who history says he was. Some Black people are still having problems with Obama even after the announcement and speech. But I'm with Cornell in that I'm mostly concerned about about how deep is his love because you can't lead the people if you don't love them.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-02-12T13:10:08-06:00

ID

90986

Comment

Considering he still does alot of actual reporting in his columns unlike most columnists, I do take him seriously in that regard. As I've written earlier, you don't see that in columnists for today for the most part as you did in Bill Minor, William Safire, Reisel, and Novak.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-02-12T13:19:40-06:00

ID

90987

Comment

don't feel too bad Ray. We can't get Jindal elected so far in a statewide election in La thanks to the N. Louisiana Republicans that won't vote for him.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-02-12T13:21:08-06:00

ID

90988

Comment

I hear people say Obama is stupid and sounds like a soccer mom, and I know that deep down it's racism and they're trying to hide behind these lies to make themselves feel and look better. This man wants to work together with both sides and take our country to new heights, and before he even ANNOUNCED his exploratory committee they were against it. I know most of it's about race and I'm not afraid to say it. If I hurt anyone's feelings (even though I wasn't refering to anyone in this forum but another one on a different site) I am sorry. KINGFISH we are going to get Jindal elected. No one wants that idiot Blanco anymore, and if we don't elect him we deserve for Louisiana to be a piece of 'caca' in 8 years.

Author

optimisticaboutNewJackCity

Date

2007-02-12T16:32:57-06:00

ID

90989

Comment

thing is I like Boasso also. I like him alot. He got ballz, he got money, and he don't mind a legislative scrap and he was the one who fought tooth and nails for the levee board reformand also to get rid of the 7 tax assessors in N.O. It will be Jinal in the runoff and you are right about Blanco which is why people like Bernhard are looking at running for Governor. by the way about Obama, he better learn not to go complaining to Maureen Dowd about writing about his ears cuz he is "sensitive" about them. Thats nothing for a presidential race.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-02-12T16:45:04-06:00

ID

90990

Comment

"by the way about Obama, he better learn not to go complaining to Maureen Dowd about writing about his ears cuz he is "sensitive" about them. Thats nothing for a presidential race. " I guess it isn't. I don't know what happened with that and I don't know how serious it was but if it was serious than I would hope that he wouldn't do it.

Author

optimisticaboutNewJackCity

Date

2007-02-12T16:51:53-06:00

ID

90991

Comment

Maureen is great with the knife, I meant pen when she wants to skewer someone. She made a comment about his ears and he went complaining to her that he was sensitive about it cuz he was made fun for having them as a kid.

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-02-12T17:02:04-06:00

ID

90992

Comment

He probably was just joking even though he was being honest. People always are saying my ears look like elf ears. I even had one girl annoy me to death until I gave them permission to touch them. I agree with Obama on many fronts and we both believe in working across party lines. I am happy to say that I support the man because of his views and not because of his skin color. In fact I think they are incorrectly calling him African-American... The man is a mulatto. He will be our first multi-racial president.

Author

optimisticaboutNewJackCity

Date

2007-02-12T17:14:46-06:00

ID

90993

Comment

Paglia rocks!!! http://www.salon.com/opinion/paglia/2007/03/14/coulter/index.html

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-03-14T07:08:04-06:00

ID

90994

Comment

Paglia rocks!!! Camille Paglia on Presidential Race

Author

Kingfish

Date

2007-03-14T07:08:52-06:00