Jackson Free Press

[verbatim] I'm John Eaves, and I am running for Governor because I believe it is time for a new day in Mississippi. I am tired of hearing our leaders tell the people of Mississippi to lower their expectations. I have seen far too many broken schools and witnessed our neighbors stuck in FEMA trailers along the coast for too long. And I'm sick and tired of Mississippi always being last in jobs, healthcare, poverty, and education and then hearing our leaders say, "What do you expect?" Well, I expect a whole lot more, and I believe Mississippians deserve much, much better. And so I am running for Governor to declare that this era of low expectations is over and a new day is dawning in Mississippi.

We live in a State with so much potential. There is nothing wrong with Mississippi that we don't have the ability to make right. We have overcome many obstacles and made incredible contributions to the strength of our nation and, more importantly, the human experience. It was here that the first heart transplant was done. It was here that the greatest literature of the 20th Century was written. It was here that the musical spark that inspired Blues, Rock and Roll, country music, and Gospel was struck.

I have traveled all over the world and am here to testify to you that the best people in the world are right here in Mississippi. If anyone doubts that fact, I will remind them that despite being the poorest state in the country, Mississippians give more of what they have to charity than any state in our Nation. As everybody under this pavilion knows, there is a hope and a heart in this State more powerful than the mighty river for which we are named. It is time for leaders who recognize the great soul of Mississippi, and who can harness our strengths to move this state forward.

Like many of you, my values, and the core of who I am, come from my parents and my faith. The seeds of my faith were planted by my mom, who read Bible stories to me every night and rocked me to sleep singing, "In the Garden." And while my faith in Jesus took root in the love and teaching of my mother, it was my father who taught me to dream.

When he was a young boy of 8, he became a primary breadwinner for his family because his father, a disabled veteran, could no longer work. He worked non-stop in various jobs as a child and young man, but he always dreamed of doing something bigger and something better. He worked his way through law school and eventually built our family's law practice. He is and has always been a dreamer, and I am my father's son.

And so today, as I stand before you, I ask you to join with me in making this dream a reality.

I dream of a Mississippi where our parents are not kicked off Medicaid; where our children do not go uninsured; and where Big Tobacco, Big Insurance, and the other powerful interests no longer decide our healthcare policy.

I dream of a Mississippi that rewards hard-working, God-fearing, honest people with jobs that provide work with dignity and a living wage that enables them to spend time with their families.

I dream of a Mississippi where our children go to the best schools in the South; schools that are excellent, not merely adequate; schools that provide our children with the skills they need to succeed in the job market of tomorrow. But we cannot stop there. In the same way that we should not measure the greatness of our state only by our economic success, neither should our schools only aim for higher test scores.

And so I dream of a Mississippi with schools that allow voluntary, student-led prayer so our children can begin to explore for themselves the fundamental questions of our existence. And by the discussion of these beliefs, begin to create a foundation upon which to build character, discipline, and respect for each other and our Creator.

I dream of a Mississippi where we recognize that poverty will never be solved by simply giving things away, and that it is neither compassionate nor economical to worry only about the consequences of poverty while ignoring its roots.

And finally, I dream of a Mississippi where we understand that there is neither black nor white, rich nor poor, male nor female, but that we are all one people and all children of God.

This is the Mississippi my wife Angel and I dream of raising our four boys in – one that gives them hope, purpose, and a moral foundation. And I believe we have waited too long, and listened too often to lukewarm politicians telling us to settle for less. Now is our time to begin making this dream a reality.

You would be right to ask how I plan to realize this dream. I have a lot of new ideas, and I have explored their costs and feasibility. But, here is an answer you won't often hear from a politician. The truth is that what I envision for Mississippi is more than a Governor can achieve alone. But, this dream is not more than we can achieve working together, walking in faith — as Democrats and Republicans, businesses and workers, black and white — to change the way our government, churches, and community interact to promote the common good.

I am not running for Governor to become the top politician in Mississippi or so I can decide which of my friends or former clients get government contracts. I am running for Governor because I believe Mississippi can be better and it will be better when we take the reins of government from the special interests who hold the keys to the Governor's mansion.

Haley Barbour has opened the doors of power to the money changers: Big Tobacco, Big Oil, Big Insurance. These groups—who Haley has lobbied for—may talk about helping Mississippi, but they are merely wolves in sheep's clothing who have been making false promises and pulling the financial strings of our leaders to force us to accept false choices.

They promise that Haley will use his Washington lobbyist connections to get money for Mississippi, but only if we agree to never ask whose pocket the money actually goes into. They ask us to ignore our broken schools and our children getting hooked on cigarettes so that Big Tobacco can make bigger profits. They tell us to ignore the fact that our state government has failed the people on the coast, and instead to give thanks that at least we don't look as bad as Louisiana.
These moneychangers have led us astray, and the current governor has continued to side with them over the people of Mississippi because, as we all know, where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. It is time for leaders in this state who treasure the people they claim to serve and who see those people as our neighbors instead of numbers.

Often, when you hear a candidate talk about how he is Pro-Life, all you really hear is a political slogan. But for me, Pro-Life not only means dedicating myself to protecting the unborn. It is a belief that each life is sacred and valuable, and knowing that value does not end at birth.

And so when I hear the numbers – that Mississippi has the country's highest infant mortality; that only 18 percent of our children can read at grade level; that our government kicked 65,000 children and elderly off Medicaid – I do not think of them as numbers. I think of the faces and personal stories attached to those numbers. And when I make a decision as Governor, I will never forget that behind those numbers are real people with names and faces, hopes and dreams, fears and weaknesses. They are our neighbors. They are God's children, and they deserve better.

And so today I am asking that you join me in this dream, in this fight for the very soul of Mississippi. I don't promise that I will always succeed. As Governor, as a man, I will fall short. But I believe in this dream and I am putting my entire life savings into this crusade. Instead of accepting money from special interests, I have freed myself to do my best to answer this call to service, with a clean conscience and with no allegiance to any but God and the great people of Mississippi.

Throughout this state there are children who are just beginning to dream dreams. Throughout this state there are people living quiet lives of struggle and sacrifice, people who put the needs of their families and their communities above their own. They are the true treasure of Mississippi, and they deserve a Governor who will fight for them and put their interests first. With your help, I'll be that Governor. And I will work with you – and for you – to transform Mississippi into our very own promised land of realized dreams. Thank you. God bless you and God bless Mississippi.

Previous Comments

ID

93705

Comment

Bump. We got this today.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-27T14:59:46-06:00

ID

93706

Comment

Wow. I'm intrigued.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-07-28T20:34:03-06:00

ID

93707

Comment

Nice speech. I consider the "student led Prayer" thing a throw-away, in that we all know it'd get shot down faster than... well anything.

Author

Ironghost

Date

2007-07-28T21:56:01-06:00

ID

93708

Comment

Guess the hard working godless aren't part of his vision?

Author

kaust

Date

2007-07-28T22:21:44-06:00

ID

93709

Comment

while giving this speech he was heckled and booed by a rowdy contingent of barbourites

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-07-28T22:44:24-06:00

ID

93710

Comment

Kaust: I'd imagine he's lawyer enough to take votes from anyone, regardless of their affiliation in the afterlife. Besides, he's a Democrat. Need I say more? :D

Author

Ironghost

Date

2007-07-28T23:08:02-06:00

ID

93711

Comment

Iron, I was speaking specifically to this: "I dream of a Mississippi that rewards hard-working, God-fearing, honest people with jobs that provide work with dignity and a living wage that enables them to spend time with their families. " Guess Eaves' Mississippi won't be rewarding me. Of course, that's nothing new in this bigoted and ignorant little place. Any idea what his stances are on homosexuality and homosexual couples/families?

Author

kaust

Date

2007-07-29T09:58:32-06:00

ID

93712

Comment

Kaust: "God Fearing" is a figure of speech. I have no clue about his stances on homosexuality. Otherwise, I feel as if you're going to be offended at anything given statements like "Of course, that's nothing new in this bigoted and ignorant little place" as you've quaintly put it. If you are going to be offended at every little thing that doesn't go your way, you won't make it far in life before you have an aneurysm. I doubt seriously that a Mississippi democrat would seriously entertain anything that would get him in trouble nationally. In the end, despite all the sound and fury in many republican administrations (not to mention democratic ones) I don't see that anything negatively has happened.

Author

Ironghost

Date

2007-07-29T15:57:32-06:00

ID

93713

Comment

I'm not offended, iron. Just realistic. God fearing may be a figure of speech but it is inclusive of only one set of people-- those that fear God and "the Creator."

Author

kaust

Date

2007-07-30T08:26:43-06:00

ID

93714

Comment

Haley has been keeping a low profile as it relates to the real issues here. I think that John Eaves is on the right track as it relates to things that will actually help the citizens of this State. Remember, it was Barbour who said that he did not have any jobs that women could do. "There might be one qualified, but, it's R -A-- R-- E! I hope that women will remember this. There are programs that this State need. I'm reminded of the many people who were thrown off Medicaid and families who had to put their ill family member back in their homes because they could not pay the out-of-pocket expences. Many of our elderly were unable to pay for their drugs. Barbour has been a nightmare for the elderly and the poor. I know that the confederate flag was voted in by citizens of this State; however, I must admit that I get angry when I see the governor taking so much pride in wearing that confederate flag pin daily. He knows the meaning of that flag and why the war was fought. How could any Black Mississippian feel good about a Gov. who is comfortable flaunting a symbol of your pain? Katrina became a financial "JACKPOT" for Barbour. Just connect the dots from his constituents, family members and good friends who made great profits from the disaster. MS could have done better. I have no problem with casinos; however, when it is the only industry that is thriving and at the loss of others, I become concerned. Much of the negative attention for little progress has been placed on Ray Naigen in New Orleans. MS gets so little attention anyway but, it is shameful that the Gov. has not demanded more for the victims and that FEMA TRAILER LIFE continues for many who deserve so much more. By the way, my nephew, a Harvard Divinity School Graduate, married a same-sex-couple right here is Jackson, MS back in the 70s. Just remember that MS has a whole lot of things going on that need special attention. The quality of life issue is very real for this State which continues to sit at the very bottom of most things.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-07-30T09:23:39-06:00

ID

93715

Comment

I didn't realize that Barbour wore a Conderate flag on his jacket. I thought it was the state flag of Mississippi. Being that he is the Governor of Mississippi and it is our state flag he should be free to wear it.

Author

LakesideRes

Date

2007-07-30T12:30:56-06:00

ID

93716

Comment

justjess, that is an unfair statement about Barbour and the flag. He wears it because he is a the governor of our state. I am glad to see him wear it. I appreciate the fact of the meanings that people want to place on the flag, and I can't believe I am getting into another damn flag debate, but the fact still remains that IT WAS VOTED ON!!! If people want it changed, great. Lets do it. Lets change it, but lets vote on it again. Otherwise, there is nothing anyone can do besides respect the flag of this state and the governor that serves under it. Lord. Talk about opening a can of worms.

Author

Trust

Date

2007-07-30T12:37:01-06:00

ID

93717

Comment

knol, I'm with you on the 'god fearing.' Cuts me out of the equation, too, since I don't believe in a vengeful god. Is Sherman Lee Dillon running this time? I need someone to vote for. Eaves has a few good ideas, but I don't think I can vote for him. I sure can't vote for Barbour. What's a gal to do?

Author

kate

Date

2007-07-30T12:45:51-06:00

ID

93718

Comment

Being that he is the Governor of Mississippi and it is our state flag he should be free to wear it. Now, that's some circular logic. Don't leave out the part where he campaigned on "protecting our flag" so that he, er, would need to wear it on his lapel. Mr. Barbour thinks the majority of Mississippians are racist—and did back when he helped get the southern strategy going nationally. It's very sad that he has such low expectations for people in his home state. I 'spose y'all would say that a Swastika was fine as long as the government decided that it was to be part of a larger emblem. That means it has nothing to do with what it has long symbolized. This is a can of worms that is open, and will stay open until it's closed. And it will not be closed as long as that symbol of race hatred is an officially ordained symbol of the state of Mississippi.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-30T12:46:32-06:00

ID

93719

Comment

I don't consider Eaves comments about school prayer "a tiny little thing". I consider it a load of crap. Prayer does not belong in public, state sponsored schools. There are plenty of ways to make public schools better without violating the law. I like a lot of what he said, but to me there is a good reason for separation of church and state, the least of which is protecting the lives and rights of religious minorities and their children.

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-07-30T12:47:36-06:00

ID

93720

Comment

Also, shame on you for knocking Knol's comments as "over-reacting" as if the Christian right hasn't murderously shamed homosexuals and used them to justify hate crimes, bad laws, and the like. It's not over-reacting if you want to live with dignity and you are homosexual. Too often the bible is used to shame this group of people.

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-07-30T12:49:08-06:00

ID

93721

Comment

Ms Ladd said "Mr. Barbour thinks the majority of Mississippians are racist—and did back when he helped get the southern strategy going nationally. It's very sad that he has such low expectations for people in his home state." I have to ask you to prove this statement. Please prove where the governor thinks most of us are racist. Also, I don't think Toyota, Howard Insdustries, Rolls Royce, and Servicor equal low expeactations for our state.

Author

LakesideRes

Date

2007-07-30T13:22:01-06:00

ID

93722

Comment

Lakeside, Mr. Barbour's use and promotion of the southern strategy -- to appeal to the racist tendencies of southern voters by pushing certain buttons (or wearing certain lapel pins, or campaigning against those who would "attack our flag," or by refusing not to ask to be removed from a racist group's Web site, or, or). I don't have to prove a thing to you on this; it's already established fact. One could probably argue that those particular companies are more concerned about our anti-labor sentiments in the state, unfortunately. Of course, many companies also learn the difficulties of hiring and retaining good people in a state where many of the best and brightest are driven away by many of the prevailing attitudes of the state. Of course, Mr. Barbour has supported policies that have hurt many of our home-grown companies, particularly manufacturing, as well. He has not been a friend of this state, which he's barely lived in as an adult speaking of "Real Mississippian" points, but he has fooled a lot of people along the way due to the payoffs of political favors he has done over the years from Republican cronies.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-30T13:31:19-06:00

ID

93723

Comment

I think I'm going to vote for Haley, now, just to piss you off Donna. LOL.

Author

Trust

Date

2007-07-30T13:37:50-06:00

ID

93724

Comment

As if you weren't gonna. ;-P Interesting rules of civic engagement you live by, I must say.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-30T13:51:40-06:00

ID

93725

Comment

on a slightly related topic have you all seen charlie ross's attack ad on phil bryant where he accuses bryant in being complicit in allowing mike moore to use the partnership to awrd funds to the legislative black caucus?does anyone else think charlie is playing the race card??

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-07-30T14:07:58-06:00

ID

93726

Comment

[quote]Also, shame on you for knocking Knol's comments as "over-reacting" as if the Christian right hasn't murderously shamed homosexuals and used them to justify hate crimes, bad laws, and the like.[/quote] If you're refering to me... what? I'm not the one who hears the word "God" and assumes the gay hit squads are out and about. The fact is, there's no place in the New Testament which allows hate at all. Not my fault most Christians mis-interpret it.

Author

Ironghost

Date

2007-07-30T14:25:55-06:00

ID

93727

Comment

Well my normal mode of "civil engagement" is to only vote for your friends and relatives, however I'll make an exception in this case. Spite can be a great motivating factor resulting from polarization on issues.

Author

Trust

Date

2007-07-30T14:31:12-06:00

ID

93728

Comment

Actually, you said you are casting a vote in order to p!ss me off. Voting for someone to piss off anyone is an odd form of civil engagement. I'm sure you can see my point. I'm really flattered, though. I didn't imagine I had such power. ;-D

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-30T14:40:35-06:00

ID

93729

Comment

OK, so far we have come to the conclusion that 1)JAE loves Jesus and doesn't like gays 2)The "established fact" that Barbour knows MS is predominately racist and he uses this in his strategy to destroy the competition. Now that's funny. What about the op-ed concerning Ike Brown in today's C-L? http://clarionledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070730/OPINION01/707300316 Will the JFP be mentioning this story now that judgement has been made and actual "facts" have been established and proven in a court of law. Any racism or bigotry is horrific. White on Black or Black on White or Straight on Gay or Americans on New Zealanders.

Author

Dave555

Date

2007-07-30T14:44:56-06:00

ID

93730

Comment

Whoa, Dave. You misquoted me. I actually don't think that Barbour "knows" that Mississippi is predominantly "racist," because I don't think it is, so it would be hard for him to "know" such a thing. I said he acts as if the majority of Mississippians—and I should have emphasized Mississippians who vote—are racist, and thus plays the southern strategy card, which we all know he does, as does the national GOP (which has apologized to the NAACP for doing it). I think it's an insult to Mississippians. And there is nothing funny about that. As for the Ike Brown story, it's been blogged a lot on here (Google it), and our photog Kate Medley has been shooting it for the New York Times. Otherwise, what's your point? You know you can't argue that the JFP doesn't criticize black people. We've blown that B.S. out of the water a long time ago. But it's always rather precious to see such a response—hey, there are bad black people, too!—when we're trying to discuss the use of a racist political strategy by a national party and many of its most beloved elected officials. And it's telling.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-30T14:59:15-06:00

ID

93731

Comment

Oh Donna, don't think of it as flattery or your 'power,' think of it more as me wanting to watch you squirm as Haley 'Pass the Biscuits' Barbour waltzes into office again. My original plan was to not vote for either of the candidates, but now I'm leaning towards Pappy.

Author

Trust

Date

2007-07-30T15:01:51-06:00

ID

93732

Comment

If what they're saying is true about Brown, I'm disgusted by it. It looks like some twisted form of revenge. No one's right to vote should be hindered.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-07-30T15:01:58-06:00

ID

93733

Comment

Ike Brown is a good example of how "electioneering" and political machines do not know race lines, but come from both black and white sources.

Author

Trust

Date

2007-07-30T15:06:18-06:00

ID

93734

Comment

Thanks. I Googled it. I got one hit from a blog with the last post being from Oct. of '06 and one from some guy in Hattiesburg that brings up a bunch of Republican voter fraud and hardly mentions Brown. Good work. I hardly think that it's an "established fact" that Barbour uses racism to win elections. What's funny is that anybody would claim that it is.

Author

Dave555

Date

2007-07-30T15:07:19-06:00

ID

93735

Comment

Donna, I googled it too. I googled it through the JFP's website and came up with 4 results and on google itself, I didn't see any references to the JFP. Maybe you could clarify.

Author

Trust

Date

2007-07-30T15:12:44-06:00

ID

93736

Comment

Clarification on Noxubee? Again, any time race has been used to discourage or conduct fraud (blatant fraud in this case) I feel it's noteworthy. Why did Ladd say "As for the Ike Brown story, it's been blogged a lot on here (Google it)". Well, no actually it hasn't at all unless you count October of 2006.

Author

Dave555

Date

2007-07-30T15:28:21-06:00

ID

93737

Comment

I know somebody was talking about it last week, Dave, and they have in the past. We haven't done an article, though, so I'm not sure, and frankly it's not my top priority. Do you really not know about the "southern strategy"? I supposed you're the only one, but goodness. I mean, the damn GOP apologized, dude. Catch up. Guys, along with Lee Atwater, Barbour was a primary southern strategist, and perfecting the wink-wink race strategy when he led the GOP. This is such common political knowledge, even as he banks on people inside the state not being educated enough about national politics to even believe it's possible. Sadly, every few months we get somebody on here who claims that there's no such thing as the southern strategy and that Barbour would never, ever do such a horrid thing. Gentlemen, grow up. This is reality, like it or not. Ike Brown is a good example of how "electioneering" and political machines do not know race lines, but come from both black and white sources. Agreed. And I'm not defending him. He sounds like a jerk and a cad, and reminds me of some folks here in Jackson who would do the same thing if they got the chance. But it's not the same as an entire political party using such a "welfare mother" strategy, and its esteemed national leaders carrying it out in such disgusting ways as Barbour et al. have done. And it's curious that you guys would be so concerned about a local guy doing it and not a state/national leader.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-30T15:31:16-06:00

ID

93738

Comment

Oh, and my suggestion is go start a thread and talk about it all you want. Fortunately, on this site, you don't need a babysitter. OK, some of you do, but you get my point. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-30T15:32:28-06:00

ID

93739

Comment

Actually, just go here and discuss the Noxubee case. There's a fair amount of discussion already there to get you going. I knew this was old news on the site. Have at it.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-30T15:35:34-06:00

ID

93740

Comment

1) I have a feeling if the GOP were conducting the exact same practice on blacks as the Noxubee Dem. Party is conducting, it would be front page. I am shocked that the JFP is not covering it. I am also shocked that you said it was discussed a lot on your site and it absolutely has not been and was not brought up last week. That simply is not the truth. Unless of course, Former Tobacco Lobbyist, Haley Barbour, used his connections with the tech savy KKK to hack Google's search engines and remove any recent comment. Except the one from the H'burg guy Which tries to lighten the punch. Maybe the former head recruiter for the KKK, Democrat Senator Dennis Byrd, WV is in on it as well. 2) Barbour doesn't NEED this "southern strategy" fantasy that you seem to be drooling over. A popular theory in the MTLA is that Eaves is simply using his own money for name saturation. That's why almost all his campaign money came from HIMSELF.

Author

Dave555

Date

2007-07-30T15:46:28-06:00

ID

93741

Comment

I don't consider Eaves comments about school prayer "a tiny little thing". I consider it a load of crap. Prayer does not belong in public, state sponsored schools. There are plenty of ways to make public schools better without violating the law. I like a lot of what he said, but to me there is a good reason for separation of church and state, the least of which is protecting the lives and rights of religious minorities and their children. I feel the same way. And to the contrary, student-led prayers are legal. If a group of students want to voluntarily lead themselves into prayer (like at the flagpole), that's perfectly fine. What I don't want is a government forcing students to pray and deciding what religion that prayer would be in. Plus, I prefer to do my praying in church or, as Jesus advised in the book of Matthew, in secret.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2007-07-30T15:51:03-06:00

ID

93742

Comment

Actually, I don't think we have put the southern strategy on our front page ever, unless you count our pieces on Trent Lott and Haley Barbour in the past. ;-) Dave, I don't know how to tell you, but I don't care what "shocks" you. Stop being a crybaby and go discuss the issue on the thread that has been there since last October. Many of our top conversations (especially non-Jackson-related ones) on this site are user-generated, and you're just as capable as anyone else here. Now, I'm not saying Barbour needs the southern strategy to win against Eaves, who doesn't seem to be above a bit o' disheartening strategy himself. I'm saying that Barbour has long been a top southern strategist, and these days in the state he plays that card more on behalf of other conservatives than he does himself. But he can certainly pull it as needed.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-30T15:51:34-06:00

ID

93743

Comment

Golden makes a good point—that student-led prayers that aren't sanctioned or organized by the school in any way are certainly constitutional. It's a complete misnomer to say that prayer in the school is illegal, or that anyone wants it illegal. It is state-run prayer that is unconstitutional, for very obvious reasons.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-30T15:54:25-06:00

ID

93744

Comment

Dave, what exactly did Brown do and how does it compare to what some whites did before him to blacks as violative of the voting rights act and rights of black folks before the voting rights act? I remember this issue being discussed here before!

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-07-30T16:00:10-06:00

ID

93745

Comment

Old news? That blog was done BEFORE the case was decided (again in 2006). The verdict just came out a few weeks ago PROVING the guilt. Shhhh, what's that sound? Squirming? And from a glance, all your posts on that blog (that even manage to mention Brown) say is "well the whites did it forever". Well, whites did do it was wrong and disgusting. But you and some others have made careers out of it talking about how the Southern whites still champion racist causes which keep black people down. But when the shoes is on the othe foot you are all the sudden silent. BTW, what's the deal with the Anti-Thad Cochran ad? I would understand if it was Lott....... but Cochran? Are you guys now run by Dowdy's money?

Author

Dave555

Date

2007-07-30T16:04:16-06:00

ID

93746

Comment

You remember it from 2006, Ray. Not after the verdict came out with the proof of guilt and the consequences AND THE FACT THAT HE STILL HOLDS HIS POSITION WITH THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY. That's the best part of the story. He's still there!!! So by Ray's logic, black people can now vote 4 times b/c a white guy committed racial voting crimes before I was born. Brilliant.

Author

Dave555

Date

2007-07-30T16:08:07-06:00

ID

93747

Comment

Dave, I know you want to pick a fight with me, but it's not going to work. I've had serious problems right here on the home front with elected officials, and it's not up to you or anyone else to tell me how to spend my blogging time. And had we not talked about it earlier, you would have complained about that. I know this drill well. Stop trolling me. It won't do you any good if you haven't figured it out by now. If you want to talk about Ike Brown, go to it. There's a thread that's been sitting there for months just waiting for you to unload on. (The Cochran ad is part of a national ad buy by that group. It surprised us as much as you. I guess the ad works, though. You're talking about it. I also giggle at the thought that this state's Democratic Party would spend a penny with our paper to try to reach young, undecided voters. I'm not sure they actually know there are young, undecided voters they need to reach out to, but that's another topic.)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-30T16:15:11-06:00

ID

93748

Comment

Dave, if I had any intellect at all, I would opine that was a weak attack and non-responsive answer to the question asked. An I don't know is likely the answer. You caught me in a good mood today. So, I'll just laught instead of returning bullets. Obviously, you have problems with the truth.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-07-30T16:16:10-06:00

ID

93749

Comment

Guilt of what, Dave?

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-07-30T16:19:09-06:00

ID

93750

Comment

Have your way, Dave, in my absence. I'm off to communist California for the rest of the week.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-07-30T16:27:49-06:00

ID

93751

Comment

One last clarification though Dave. We black folks only wanted to vote once and some was killed and maimed for it. "Racist psychology exhibits irrationality, compulsion, intolerance, a constricted conscience, a serious difficulty with introspection, and a tendency to blame others. The psychological racist reaction syndrome includes fear, anxiety, defensiveness, denial, self-righteousness, moral indignation, feelings of being put upon, and urge to flee the context, or an urge to retaliate- that is, to suppress the challenger." Later.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-07-30T16:41:26-06:00

ID

93752

Comment

Dave wrote: Barbour doesn't NEED this "southern strategy" fantasy that you seem to be drooling over. Get you some edumucation, Davey. The Southern Strategy is 40 years old and well documented.

Author

Brian C Johnson

Date

2007-07-30T18:03:33-06:00

ID

93753

Comment

Wow. Everyone came out of the woodwork to attack Dave. Good job Dave. Nothing like seeing the JFP Mafia on the defensive. LOL.

Author

Trust

Date

2007-07-30T18:13:17-06:00

ID

93754

Comment

It's not "defensive" to correct bad facts, Trust. It's going them a favor.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-30T23:32:43-06:00

ID

93755

Comment

Defensive=Squirming Ray, you seem to blame everything on race so what does that say about you? And to all, thanks for not answering my question as to WHY Brown still holds his position after being called out by a Federal Court for using race to suppress or not count votes. Again, nice work. Ray, I'm glad I caught you in a good mood. That's why you responded 4 times in a row!! You wrote "Racist psychology exhibits irrationality, compulsion, intolerance, a constricted conscience, a serious difficulty with introspection, and a tendency to blame others. The psychological racist reaction syndrome includes fear, anxiety, defensiveness, denial, self-righteousness, moral indignation, feelings of being put upon, and urge to flee the context, or an urge to retaliate- that is, to suppress the challenger." Well, that all seems to apply directly to you, Ray. Read your own posts. Thanks for giving me more ammo. Just to "edumacate" you, racism doesn't have to be white on black. You JFP guys are the gift that keeps on giving. Thank you.

Author

Dave555

Date

2007-07-31T07:15:24-06:00

ID

93756

Comment

Racism does, though, have to be as part of a systemic effort by people of one race in power to disenfranchise in some way a less powerful group of people of another race. That's why it's an -ism, and not just a collection of bigotry. Interestingly, from what I know about the Ike Brown case, it is one of the few examples that I've ever heard of black-on-white"racism" that actually approaches, or tries to approach, the real definition. Usually what people call "reverse racism" is simply bigotry (if that; depends on the circumstances). This case actually gives a glimmer of how "racism" against whites could promulgate in a defined region where whites do not have as much power, and a system forms to support the "racism" directing against them. Obviously, that likely won't be allowed to happen in Noxubee because national media and outraged white people (and presumably some blacks) are all over it. It's unfortunate that the same attention isn't always given to more traditional U.S. racism, which can take decades to even get people to acknowledge, but hey. Now, again, any further comments on Ike Brown go here. Any others posted on this thread will be deleted, as well as ad hominem comments, so go there and have the conversation. The forum awaits. This thread now returns to its regularly scheduled programming of John Arthur Eaves.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-31T07:26:27-06:00

ID

93757

Comment

I agree this thread is about John Arthur Eaves. Shouldn't all comments and attacks on Haley Barbour be in the thread for his speech?

Author

LakesideRes

Date

2007-07-31T08:56:47-06:00

ID

93758

Comment

Well, they're running against each other, and people were talking about Eaves on his thread, so that's probably fair game (and harder to enforce). But topics that are so far off such as this one belong in their own thread.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-31T08:57:45-06:00

ID

93759

Comment

Well Trust and Lakesides, just remember that one person's "can of worms" is another person's can of PAIN. This "voted on" State/Confederate flag that Barbour wears daily for me is a symbol of racism and serves as a reminder of painful events I grew up with. It represents the mind set of the person(s) who in 1964, bombed my parents grocery store, killing a cab driver who was parked in front of the store, while waiting for his next call. Also, the scars I see on my nephews face who was thrown from a window. It reminds me of the schools that were "seperate" but, not "equal" that I attended. It reminds me of having to walk on one side of the street so that you would not get close to little white boys and girls. I could go on with the many injustices that Black people had to live with or be killed. It is very difficult to forgive: Develop a greater understanding or participate in commentary re race relations when faced with this type of insensitivity. Again, it is not the "can of worms" being opened again: It is the festering sore that can not heal as long as people like Barbour pi$$ in your face and tell you that it's raining. It is interesting that of all the things written in my post on June 30 ,@10:23, the two of you could only respond to the flag. Any thoughts on Barbour's position on women and their "R A R E" evaluation by him as it relates to job qualifications?? Any thoughts on Medicaid and Barbour's position and eventual cuts?? Any thoughts on contracts being awarded to family equaling millions?? Any thought on the Coast and the turtle movement in helping people who loss so much and whom so much has been given, yet, so little received? The Confederate/State flag is the tarpaulin used to cover the nasty mess for some, but, thriving success stories for others.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-07-31T09:23:03-06:00

ID

93760

Comment

I'm not opposed to John Eaves' position on "volunteer prayer" in the schools. We have become such big hippocrits on the issue of religion and the seperation there of. The folks (supreme court judges) begin ever session with a biblical quote. Oaths are taken by swearing on the Bible. Our paper currency is "In God We Trust." Nobody is willing to give up the green because of what is written on it. I'm not a super religious person who must impose my beliefs on others; however, I do know that religion is a tool used to keep some people in check and if there were no beliefs that "Thou Shall Not Kill" - or "Thou Shall Not Steal, the world would be in an even bigger holy mess. Going back to some of the things that John Eaves talk about in his speeches are: 1. respect for self and others 2. respect for the country and, help for those who are less fortunate. This is the philosophy of Christ and it is one that I too grew up with. We started our day with a prayer and a pledge to the AMERICAN FLAG. The day was ended the same way. Our teachers prayed for a safe trip as we walked home from school: For parents who would take care of us and help with homework: For a nutritious meal, a good night sleep and a safe return to class the next day. Sometimes we have to depend on things/ideas that are tried and true.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-07-31T10:09:23-06:00

ID

93761

Comment

I'm not opposed to John Eaves' position on "volunteer prayer" in the schools. Me, either. Anyone should be, and is, able to pray anywhere anytime. I certainly do. ;-) I'm more concerned, though, about the TV commercial I caught last night, which talked about putting Bible literacy courses into the schools. Now, that's a can of worms that could not be opened with any sense of decorum. People in the same churches can't agree on what the Bible "means" often; the idea that the government is going to decide how to teach "The Bible" is offensive to anyone focused on freedom of religion.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-31T10:18:05-06:00

ID

93762

Comment

I actually agree with Ladd on that last point. It's pretty obvious that Eaves is going for the hardcore Christian right with all this prayer and God talk. Unfortunately for him, his extravagant trial lawyer lifestyle is a turnoff to this group.

Author

Dave555

Date

2007-07-31T10:23:21-06:00

ID

93763

Comment

Also, the above transcript of the speech doesn't truly represent the speech that JAE gave. He said a couple of opening words and then there was an extremely long and even more akward pause. It was really, really quiet and I think even Haley felt sorry for him (probably not, actually). The actual speech above should be written: "I’m John Eaves, and I am running for Governor because I believe it is time for a new day in Mississippi...................................................................................................(30 wierd and silent seconds) I am tired of hearing our leaders tell the people of Mississippi to lower their expectations..."

Author

Dave555

Date

2007-07-31T10:28:11-06:00

ID

93764

Comment

Agreed, Dave. And it's a little hard to believe that he thinks he's going to sway them away from Barbour. This is what drives me crazy about the state Dems. It reminds me of Ronnie Musgrove's ridiculous invite for Judge Moore to bring his 10 Commendmant rock over from Alabama. He's an attorney, and a smart one. He knows why Bible literacy classes aren't, can't be, constitutional—in this country, at least. However, I like much of talk about progressive, compassionate religion, and considerating that that is where the country is headed, that could be a good message, and a better way to sway the faithful. But he should stop there.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-31T10:31:16-06:00

ID

93765

Comment

Volunteer prayer. I caught that last night, too. Obvious political pandering at it's worst. As a former yellow dog and current lukewarm dem, that commercial just about made me sick to my stomach. Now as far as Bible literacy, there's something there, but I would prefer it be "religious literacy." Not to state the obvious, but a better grasp on the religious views of the world would help, and would have helped, get us through the current mess our leaders have gotten us into to.

Author

Bulbs

Date

2007-07-31T10:37:27-06:00

ID

93766

Comment

Right, Bulbs, I'm all about the study of religions in an intellectual, macro way, but I don't think that's what he means. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-31T10:45:08-06:00

ID

93767

Comment

"religious literacy. --Bubbs Agreed. This is a much better concept, and might actually help to prevent bigotry and encourage better inter-religious relations & communication. The Bible plays a huge role in our American history, yet the desire for freedom from religious persecution plays an equally important role.

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-07-31T11:06:34-06:00

ID

93768

Comment

This is what drives me crazy about the state Dems. Hearing Eaves' speech and seeing his commercials on TV, it makes me wonder why the Dems are trying to out-conservative the conservatives. I'm not saying he needs to be a hard-left liberal, but I'd just as well vote for the Republican than the Republican-lite. At least I know what I'm getting if voting for the real thing. See 1994 Congressional and Senate races.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2007-07-31T12:09:32-06:00

ID

93769

Comment

perhaps eaves needs a forum to explain himself on the prayer/religion front. he is not a dumb guy and i believe his views are sincere and within the bounds of the establishment clause.. the most remarkable course in my undergraduate education was "heritage of the west", about a third of the curriculum for which was tied to illustrative stories of the old testament and the spread of christianity and the later expansion of islam.i wish i had had a course something like that in high school. eaves may be courting evangelicals but he is not a conservative if you gauge where he comes down on the role of government in helping those who have less.i wonder how many of JFP's bloggers might have been equally turned off by the abolitionists of the precivil war era,who often invoked scripture to support their positions.

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-07-31T12:19:51-06:00

ID

93770

Comment

Speaking for myself, I wouldn't have been at all offended by that (correct) use of scripture in favor of abolishing slavery. I quote the Bible often and work with a verse above my desk (Proverbs 14:31). There's a big difference in having faith and wanting the government to push your faith on others. That ad I saw last night sounded like he was stepping outside the establishment clause to me, but I could be wrong. We'll be focusing more on the governor's race after the primary. We'll get him to talk more about this if he's willing.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-31T12:23:55-06:00

ID

93771

Comment

golde eagle, if what eaves was uttering came out of the mouth of a priest, most would say the man was a liberal catholic. likewise when jesse jackson or al sharpton say the same thing eaves says nobody says the two reverends are pandering to conservative christians. why is it that when a white southern Democrat invokes his faith he is automatically branded a "conservative"?has the GOP ruined it for the rest of us? has the Democratic party become so completely secular that it excludes the message of eaves?am i missing something??

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-07-31T12:32:13-06:00

ID

93772

Comment

I'm not opposed to John Eaves' position on "volunteer prayer" in the schools. Me, either. Anyone should be, and is, able to pray anywhere anytime. I certainly do. ;-) I'm more concerned, though, about the TV commercial I caught last night, which talked about putting Bible literacy courses into the schools. Now, that's a can of worms that could not be opened with any sense of decorum. People in the same churches can't agree on what the Bible "means" often; the idea that the government is going to decide how to teach "The Bible" is offensive to anyone focused on freedom of religion. --Ladd Exactly. What Bible are we referring to? What translation? Which "values" - the ones of the conservative Christian right, used at times to support the demeaning of gay people? (And Ironghost, don't tell me this doesn't happen, even if it isn't "your" kind of Christian. The liberals? The radical Jesus-like who seek to redistribute the earth's wealth away from the few and into the hands of the many? That's a bit like anarchy if you really read it literally. I think students would be better served getting financial literacy, maybe from a program like Dave Ramsey's curriculum for high school students. He is Christian but his principles apply to anyone - learn how to live on less than you make, do a budget, and avoid credit cards and debt.

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-07-31T12:35:48-06:00

ID

93773

Comment

Chimneyville, I think you are missing the key piece: that Bible literacy classes inherently "push" the agenda of one religious group; i.e., Christians. That is why there is a separation of church and state - to protect the rights of people who aren't Christian. Also, I do not think a liberal catholic calling for help to the poor and the needy would in the same breath suggest a major breach of historic school policy. In my experience those liberal catholics helping the poor are a lot more interested in providing services rather than rhetoric ,and often sticking up for those whose voices aren't heard.

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-07-31T12:41:03-06:00

ID

93774

Comment

i renew my suggestion that eaves clarify himself. perhaps the 30 second ad writer used a term,"bible literacy", when what was really meant was a course on religion,which is taught at all of our state IHLs.i know john and in my estimation he can roughly be tagged a "liberal catholic" in the best meaning of the term,even though he is a southern baptist by affiliation.

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-07-31T12:48:47-06:00

ID

93775

Comment

So his ad writer uses "Bible literacy," Barbour's speechwriter adds in "trophy wife." They are both responsible for their speeches and ads. We'll happily talk to him about it further -- but not today. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-07-31T12:50:16-06:00

ID

93776

Comment

excuse me, but aren't southern baptists the ones who won't give women the right to preach or hold office in the church? not sure that is truly in line with liberal values. and I for one think you are reading a forgiving tone into his idea that isn't really there. BUt I am open to being corrected by Mr. Eaves himself if he chooses to clarify that.

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-07-31T12:58:28-06:00

ID

93777

Comment

izzy to use your logic catholics would be the most illiberal

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-07-31T13:38:29-06:00

ID

93778

Comment

not sure you are getting my logic, chimneyville, and am certain I'm not seeing yours...care to elaborate that point a bit?

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-07-31T14:12:05-06:00

ID

93779

Comment

go back and read your post. you basically said that because the baptist church doesnt let women preach then if you are a practicing baptist then you are not in line with "liberal values". well, then, we catholics worship at an alter presided over by celibate males. so does that make us out of step with "liberal values",too?. i think not. see,e.g., nancy pelosi and ted kennedy,a couple of fine liberal catholics if i may so myself.also, believe it or not there are a whole lot of progressive baptists out there,and i count my friend eaves as one of them

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-07-31T14:28:21-06:00

ID

93780

Comment

hey Chimneyville, you got me on that one. I guess to me the lack of women in catholic ministries doesn't stand out, though you are right, that creates inconsistency in my logic. Perhaps I think that way in part due to the fact that the reach of the power of the catholic church over my community seems to be weaker than the reach of the southern baptist group. But you are right. Are you interested in sharing more regarding the "progressive southern baptist" elements you mention? I'm open to educating myself.

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-08-01T11:07:04-06:00

ID

93781

Comment

jizzy,jimmy carter comes to mind first and foremost. i remember how the northeastern liberal elite had a hard time figuring out what it meant to be "born again", as carter described himself.carter carried mississippi in 1976.next, bill clinton is a southen baptist,... at the same time while governor of arkansas he participated in the annual pentecostal camp meeting there.al and tipper gore i believe still claim to be baptists,although they may have left the southern convention a few years ago.

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-08-01T12:44:53-06:00

ID

93782

Comment

I am SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO upset that this man won the Democrat primary... Has anyone seen his new Republican Commercial? "I believe in prayer in school.... I believe in bible study.... I believe that marriage is between a man and a woman... (or people like me should shove off) I believe in the right to life..." (or lack of a woman's choice) What is this?!? Why did he even run democrat? He should have just run republican and been done with it. I am just so disappointed with him, so, so disappointed. Next thing you know he'll be using "Jesus Take the Wheel" as his campaign song.

Author

Puck

Date

2007-08-20T10:32:02-06:00

ID

93783

Comment

actually, i just saw the new eaves ad in which he unveiled his plan for universal healthcare for every child in mississippi.i also saw him on wlbt news where he and his entire campaign staff were on the jsu campus conducting a voter registration drive. my friend eaves is a loyal democrat and a man not afraid about expressing his faith and the connection of faith to good deeds. on issues important to poor people he is running farther left than any candidate for governor in my memory.many of these same poor and working class people happen to agree with him on his position on voluntary school prayer.these folks distrust the democratic party because of the gay stuff. if he is so distasteful you are free to vote for barbour or not vote(which also is a vote for barbour).if black voter turnout increases by 10 percent over 4 years ago and working class evangelical whites move away from barbour in a marked manner,barbour is toast.remember,you read it here.

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-08-20T21:39:25-06:00

ID

93784

Comment

f black voter turnout increases by 10 percent over 4 years ago and working class evangelical whites move away from barbour in a marked manner,barbour is toast.remember,you read it here. Well, I haven't been so specific, chimney, but I too believe Barbour is beatable this year. The question is whether Eaves is the one to do it. Interesting that it's not John Eaves, not John Arthur Eaves. Trying to distance from his daddy?

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-08-20T21:48:15-06:00

ID

93785

Comment

well his daddy did run for governor three times.in 75 he campaigned wearing a white suit and sported a pompadour ala george c wallace.BTW i jokingly commented to a group of folks ridiculing eaves on the prayer thing that it was ironic that every damned one of them were paying seven thousand dollars a year for their chillun to go to a school named after a saint.maybe thats why working class white folks distrust that so called limouisine liberal crowd and go out and vote, against their economic intersets, for reagan,george w,fordice and barbour .

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-08-20T22:01:14-06:00

ID

93786

Comment

at it was ironic that every damned one of them were paying seven thousand dollars a year for their chillun to go to a school named after a saint. What is that "ironic" in the least? Those are private schools. It's irrelevant. Even Mississippians are smart enough to understand that. Just saw his "faux Republican" commercial. It's the worst yet. It's one thing to have strong faith and run on populist issues, but he's trying to out-radical-right Barbour, playing wedge issues like gay marriage, abortion, blah, blah. Whatever. Y'all are going to fight over the very same pool of voters. Have fun. It's bad enough that Republicans treat us like we're all racist; it's too bad that the more "progressive" party has to treat us like we're stupid. It's short-sighted. Remember Musgrove?

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-08-20T22:04:33-06:00

ID

93787

Comment

and keep in mind that while we democrats down here may look like a rabble that cant seem to get it together ,the various fundraising arms of the national democratic party are flush to the gills and are actually smoking the GOP in fundraising. dont be surprised if someone on our side in D.C. decides that an october surprise attack to knock out barbour might be the best "southern strategy" for november 2008. we whipped the republicans last fall,beating them in some unlikely places(i.e. virginia) and we can do it here.

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-08-20T22:11:12-06:00

ID

93788

Comment

I think it's possible, too, but I don't think y'all are going about it right. I don't see a bit difference between Musgrove and the whole fake-Republican Tyner thing. State Dems are stuck in a vacuum, and it benefits Republicans.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-08-20T22:13:31-06:00

ID

93789

Comment

In other words, leave the frackin' wedge issues alone, talk progressive politics and religion, and go after the (good) populist issues hard in a post-Katrina, post-tobacco-grocery-debacle world. Eaves is just not convincing on all the wedge stuff. Sorry. He needs to "make it real," especially if y'all hope to increase the black votes for him. And those commercials are not "real."

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-08-20T22:15:44-06:00

ID

93790

Comment

The more I see those Eaves commercials about Bible teaching and school prayer, the more I'm thinking about not putting in a vote for governor. If there is an independent or third-party candidate out there, I'd like to know who he or she is and that person may be the one to get my vote. Even Barbour isn't pushing Bible classes, or at least not made it known yet during the campaign.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2007-08-20T22:21:12-06:00

ID

93791

Comment

Couldn't agree more, Golden Eagle. The way this one seems to be going, I think my vote would best be spent on Shaun O'Hara. A couple of years ago I voted for some lady on the coast. Don't remember much about her (can't even remember her name), but she had a campaign photo made while wearing a bikini, and I think her entire platform concerned issuing herself a pardon for a DUI. We really need someone like that now...

Author

Rico

Date

2007-08-20T22:28:36-06:00

ID

93792

Comment

i saw a different ad than you did.one ad in the rotation discusses childrens heathcare.i dont know if what i observed is ironic but i can tell you that most everyday folks associate prople who send their kids to these schools in mississippi as segregationists or snobs,or both.my thinking is that these folks are fine with the nun or the priest leading a prayer but expect the public school kids to eat their peas . in my estimation private schools are highly "relevant" and are mainly the problem,not the solution for moving our state ahead.also, just because one may not agree on a position of a candidate(such as gay marriage) this should not mean that his position is stupid and that by articulating it the candidate thinks the voters are stupid

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-08-20T22:31:20-06:00

ID

93793

Comment

eaves newst ad unveils a detailed plan for universal healthcare for mississippi children. he favors cutting the sales tax on groceries.the head of the partnership for a healthy mississippi,sandra shelson,is on his campaign staff. your concerns about "wedge issues are noted.the only wedge issue i have read about though is the one jim herring brought up this week criticizing white democratic lawmakers for voting for ultra liberal groups like the "legislative black caucus"

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-08-20T22:40:41-06:00

ID

93794

Comment

That's the problem with politics - or one of the many: compromises. Universal health care for Mississippi children - and everyone - long overdue so 'yes'. Cut or eliminate the sales tax on groceries - yes. Bible thumping, prayer in schools? A resounding 'no'. Another basic Constitutional principle in the US is the separation of church and state. We don't need theocracies of any kind in this country a successful secular, democratic system just as it is. So am I going to vote Republican? No way. Republicans have completely discredited themselves ever since GWB came into office - post Newt Gingrich, in fact. Vote Eaves? Also 'no' unless he cools it with the idea of re-introducing school prayer and Bible studies, etc. Here's a question: will we be able to write in candidates for governor? Was the fact that we could not write in candidates in the primary due to the fact that it was a primary or have the powers that be decided they don't want to bother with write-in votes?

Author

lucdix

Date

2007-08-20T23:09:49-06:00

ID

93795

Comment

I wrote (or rather typed) in some candidates- my wife got my vote for 3 different offices...

Author

Rico

Date

2007-08-20T23:12:46-06:00

ID

93796

Comment

chimneyville, he is spending valuable advertising time talking about something that is already illegal in Mississippi: gay marriage. When it was on the ballot here last time, the GOP was using it as a wedge issue ... even though it was already illegal. Tell me both sides aren't treating voters like we're stupid. We need to see more from the "progressive" candidate. He doesn't *have* to do this. The fact that he thinks he does is a real turn-off. I think he's getting really backward campaign advice. And it's more-of-the-same from state Dems, more tricks, and it won't work. We need passion about real issues like education funding, health care, keeping jobs in Mississippi, and so on. Not this crap. You're not going to out-Republican Barbour on abortion and gay marriage. He wrote that playbook, remember? It really does remind me of the silliness of the Tyner trick.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-08-21T06:01:44-06:00

ID

93797

Comment

And if as an attorney, he cannot understand why the First Amendment, with its establishment clause, *protects* freedom of religion, then he shouldn't be governing a state where religion is so vital. Let's have that conversation, folks, instead of this continual drone of assuming that most Mississippians won't, or can't, understand basic American freedom principles. It's really hard for educated Mississippians to vote for someone who is trying to be part of that problem of treating us like fools. This is the very reason so many smart Mississippians (a) leave and (b) don't vote. I bet they still have the 10 Commandment rock over in Alabama; Eaves could invite it over to live with him, Angel and dignity in the governor's mansion. Worked for Musgrove. Oh, except it didn't.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-08-21T06:05:03-06:00

ID

93798

Comment

Calling B.S. on your comment about Herring, chimney. Yes, he's trying to play an old wedge issue, and it's transparent and makes him look like a confused dinosaur. However, Eaves is trying to push back on the wedges. And that doesn't make him much better at this point. He could still redeem himself, but I don't expect to see it happen. Once again, Mississippians are going to be played by fools for both sides, and then expected to pick the "best" candidate. Great. Deja Vu all over again as the Democrats whistle Dixie all the way to the polls. And, y'all, hurry up and get Shows to run for Pickering's seat while you're at it. What we have are two parties stuck in the past, folks. And y'all wonder why so many people don't vote. You insult me, and then I'm supposed to go to the polls for you. Right.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-08-21T06:09:39-06:00

ID

93799

Comment

That's the problem with politics - or one of the many: compromises. Universal health care for Mississippi children - and everyone - long overdue so 'yes'. Cut or eliminate the sales tax on groceries - yes. Bible thumping, prayer in schools? A resounding 'no'. As a devout Christian, I also believe that Eaves is going about it the wrong way with those ads. I saw the one about voluntary prayer in schools, and I thought to some degree that the right to do that still existed. I thought that mandatory prayer was what was not allowed. After all, a Muslim child still gets to squeeze in some of his/her five prayers at school, right? When I was in school, I still prayed before I ate lunch or took a test, and no one stopped me. I think the whole issue needs to be clarified. The only thing I liked about the commercial was the song in the background - "Who Am I" by Casting Crowns - and now I don't know if I can still like it because every time I hear it, I'll picture his commercial.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-08-21T08:26:23-06:00

ID

93800

Comment

Chimneyville, I want to go back and answer a question you asked me on July 31, which I honestly didn't see until now: golde eagle, if what eaves was uttering came out of the mouth of a priest, most would say the man was a liberal catholic. likewise when jesse jackson or al sharpton say the same thing eaves says nobody says the two reverends are pandering to conservative christians. why is it that when a white southern Democrat invokes his faith he is automatically branded a "conservative"?has the GOP ruined it for the rest of us? has the Democratic party become so completely secular that it excludes the message of eaves?am i missing something?? I don't care if Eaves is a black Communist Party member, I don't want government officials or wannabes establishing religion. I don't have a problem with politicians and candidates who invoke faith in their personal lives. Eaves can profess his faith in Jesus Christ until he's blue in the face and I'm fine with that. His personal faith is not the problem. My problem is him wanting to have Bible classes taught in public schools. I would feel the same way if he were Muslim and wanted the Qu'ran taught or if he were Jewish and wanted the Torah to be taught. Even if Bible classes were to be taught, you're opening up a huge can of worms. Which Bible translation would be used? King James? New International? And to whose interpretation would these lessons be subjected to? The Methodist point of view? The Southern Baptist? The Catholic? I used to belong to a church which literally said that if you were not a member of that church, you're Hell-bound. Would you like for a teacher who is a member of that church teaching your kids about the Bible? You can talk about having Bible classes all day, but when little Johnny comes home and tells you what his teacher taught in Bible class and it goes against what you taught him, what would have to say about it then?

Author

golden eagle

Date

2007-08-21T08:35:24-06:00

ID

93801

Comment

I thought that mandatory prayer was what was not allowed. That is true. Mandatory and teacher-led prayers are not allowed. Voluntary prayer is perfectly fine. I believe people have confused unconstitutional teacher-led prayers with the idea that you cannot pray at all in schools and that's simply not true. I would stand up for any person who is denied the right to pray in school, as long as he or she is doing it voluntarily.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2007-08-21T08:40:38-06:00

ID

93802

Comment

Even if Bible classes were to be taught, you're opening up a huge can of worms. Which Bible translation would be used? King James? New International? And to whose interpretation would these lessons be subjected to? The Methodist point of view? The Southern Baptist? The Catholic? I used to belong to a church which literally said that if you were not a member of that church, you're Hell-bound. Would you like for a teacher who is a member of that church teaching your kids about the Bible? You can talk about having Bible classes all day, but when little Johnny comes home and tells you what his teacher taught in Bible class and it goes against what you taught him, what would have to say about it then? My thoughts exactly. I have an Apostolic background, so if I had a child, there are certain things that I don't want him or her to be taught. For instance, I don't believe in the concept of the trinity. If a teacher forced the trinity down my child's throat, I'll have to make a visit or two to the school, and that may not be a pleasant experience for any of us.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-08-21T09:53:03-06:00

ID

93803

Comment

donna i encourage you again to investigate eaves plan for childrens health that he unveiled this week.i find it to be well thought out policy.i was in prentiss today and was in a conversation with two white nominally Democratic elected officials, who ought to be voting for haley,but they told me they liked eaves stand on moral issues,and for giving it to haley on medicaid. i suspect their views are consistent with most working class rural whites,who ought to be voting democrat but dont because the GOP has convinced them that the democrats are led by a bunch of effete cultural snobs who are just too smart for jesus.also i think what herring said was far more invidious than anything john has said.john aint trying to divide the races:rather he is trying to put together the old redneck blackneck coalition.it has the makings of causing the democratic party to look more like the midway of the state fair on saturday night as opposed to ,say, fondren mix

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-08-21T22:42:49-06:00

ID

93804

Comment

also the gubernatorial candidates we democrats have fielded (mabus molpus musgrove)portrayed themselves as bright,new south take charge executives who wonked lots of education policy.none of them seemed to care about getting down with bubba or having close personal moments with everyday black people.they all got creamed. i am ready to inject some good old fashioned deep south populism into the november race.i remain excited about my friends eaves,franks and anderson who all three ,in their own ways, are speaking to, and pledge to fight for, those who have less.

Author

chimneyville

Date

2007-08-21T22:57:02-06:00

ID

93805

Comment

i suspect their views are consistent with most working class rural whites,who ought to be voting democrat but dont because the GOP has convinced them that the democrats are led by a bunch of effete cultural snobs who are just too smart for jesus.also i think what herring said was far more invidious than anything john has said.john aint trying to divide the races:rather he is trying to put together the old redneck blackneck coalition.it has the makings of causing the democratic party to look more like the midway of the state fair on saturday night as opposed to ,say, fondren mix I like how you put that, chimney. We do need people in office who can relate to everyone.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-08-22T07:37:43-06:00