rssThe New Agnew
Monday, September 15, 2008 at 1:46 pm
- 120 Comments
Spiro Agnew and Gov. Sarah Palin (Library of Congress, WDCpix)
In recent days, political analysts have compared Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin to another relatively unknown vice presidential candidate, Dan Quayle. The more apt parallel, however, would be to Richard M. Nixon’s 1968 running mate, Maryland Gov. Spiro T. Agnew.
During earlier presidential campaigns, politicians vying for the second slot, who had far more experience than Palin, took the backseat, quietly stumping on behalf of their running mates. Consider, for example, nominees like Richard M. Nixon in 1952, and Lyndon B. Johnson in 1960. But Agnew transformed the vice presidential slot into something far more visible: a party attack dog.
Illustration by: Matt Mahurin
Agnew could sling mud and make vicious statements without hesitation, allowing the potential chief executive to assume the lofty role of statesman. Agnew saw himself as the self-proclaimed spokesman for Nixon’s Silent Majority. He fashioned himself as a populist fighting for the ordinary guy — for Joe Six-Pack and his family.
He raised verbal bellicosity to new heights. Agnew seemed to delight in the politics of resentment and division. His evocative speeches—often written by leading wordsmiths of the right, like William Safire and Patrick J. Buchanan — attacked “the Eastern Establishment,” people he disparaged as “effete snobs” and “limousine liberals.”
Agnew also repeatedly questioned the patriotism of the Democratic presidential nominee, Vice President Hubert Humphrey, accusing him of being “squishy soft” on communism.
Now, 40 years later, Palin has taken the job of vice presidential attack dog to a new level.
Agnew needed several months to perfect his role as lightning rod for the right. Palin did it with her first speech. In her acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention, Palin set a combative tone by proudly likening herself to a pit bull with lipstick. She then launched attacks against Sen. Barack Obama, Michelle Obama and the integrity of the entire Democratic Party.
Over the past several decades, voter surveys continually report that while Americans do not like negative campaigning, they find it highly effective. Consequently, attack dogs like Agnew and Palin can play a central role in turning the hopeful into the skeptical.
Swinging their metaphoric hatchets with glee, Agnew and now Palin delighted the GOP faithful with vicious attacks on the “liberal” media. Agnew disdained the press as “the nattering nabobs of negativity” and blasted TV commentators as “a tiny fraternity of privileged men elected by no one and enjoying a monopoly sanctioned and licensed by the government.”
When reporters questioned the credibility of Nixon’s statements about the progress of the Vietnam War, Agnew shot back, “Perhaps the place to start looking for a credibility gap is not in the offices of the government in Washington but in the studios of the networks in New York!”
Palin, meanwhile, accused the media of belittling her because she was “not a member in good standing of the Washington elite.” As she said at the convention: “Here’s a little news flash for all those reporters and commentators. I’m not going to Washington to seek their good opinion. I’m going to Washington to serve the people of this great country.”
The remarkable similarities between Agnew and Palin extend beyond their attack-dog personas. Both had a small town or suburban background. Agnew was born in Baltimore, but moved to the outlying suburbs. Palin in Sandpoint, Id., and moved to Alaska as an infant. Both had relatively large families. Agnew had three daughters and a son. Palin has three daughters and two sons.
In addition, both were active PTA parents. “Ted [Agnew’s nickname] got into politics through the PTA,” explained his wife Elinor. Palin described herself as “average hockey mom” who joined the PTA out of concern for the quality of local education. Both were chosen in the middle of a war and had a child serving — or about to serve — in the military. When Agnew was nominated, his son, Randy, 22, had served with the Navy in Vietnam for more than 5 months. Palin’s son, Track, 19, departed with his Army unit to Iraq on Sept. 11, 2008.
Seeking the second highest office in the land, both VP candidates had relatively little political experience before entry onto the national stage. Agnew’s public career started in 1957, when he was appointed to the Baltimore County Zoning Board of Appeals. He won his first election in 1962, as chief administrator of Baltimore County (1962-1966) — which did not include the city of Baltimore.
Palin served on the Wasilla city council from 1992 to 1996, and as the mayor of the small town (6,715) from 1996 to 2002. After losing a bid for lieutenant governor in 2002, she won the Alaska governorship in 2006.
Agnew and Palin also share the dubious distinction of being surprise nominees. As The Wall Street Journal reported on Aug 9, 1968, “Mr. Nixon surprised everyone at midday yesterday by announcing he wanted Maryland Gov. Spiro Agnew as his running mate.” Even Agnew confessed, “I agree with you that the name of Spiro Agnew is not a household word. I certainly hope it will become one in the next couple of months.”
Meanwhile, early on, McCain defended his choice of running mate by telling ABC, “Over time, people will compare her accomplishments with that of Sen. Obama and his are very meager. She is experienced, she’s talented and she knows how to lead. This is what Americans want.”
Nixon and McCain chose their running mates not just for their sharp tongues, but to solidify support among the party’s conservative base. Agnew was key to Nixon’s “Southern Strategy.” The Republican standard-bearer saw the Maryland governor as sufficiently from the South to attract Southerners, yet not so identified with South that he would lose Northern and Midwestern moderates. Nixon felt that the son of a Greek immigrant could appeal to a broad swath of urban ethnics, blue-collar workers and Southern and suburban whites.
In the same fashion, while McCain hopes his “maverick” image would attract independent voters, he chose Palin to engage the GOP conservative base — especially its evangelical wing. A vehement social conservative, Palin opposes abortion, same-sex marriage and gun control, while supporting the National Rifle Assn. and the teaching of creationism in public schools.
Both Palin and Agnew talked about the importance of civility in politics, but quickly turned to vilifying their opponents. Defending Agnew’s repeated attacks on all perceived enemies of the Nixon regime, White House director of communications Herbert Klein insisted the vice president’s vituperative language was necessary ‘‘to explain in a missionary way what administration policies are and to seek support for them.”
In 2004, Palin criticized negative campaigning, saying, “Wayward ammunition causes damages when politicians run negative campaigns aimed toward opponents’ feet instead of shooting straight with voters.” Yet, in her acceptance speech, she belittled Obama’s experience as a community organizer in Chicago. “I guess a small-town mayor is sort of like a community organizer,” Palin said, “except that you have actual responsibilities.”
After questioning Michelle Obama’s patriotism, Palin implicitly questioned the Illinois senator’s commitment to the war effort: “This is a man who can give an entire speech about the wars America is fighting and never use the word ‘victory’ except when he’s talking about his own campaign.”
Attacks dogs, however, can find themselves under attack. Agnew and Palin were both tainted by rumors of corruption or abuse of power. In October 1973, during his fifth year as vice president, the U.S. attorney’s office in Baltimore charged Agnew with having accepted bribes totaling more than $100,000 while serving as Baltimore County executive, governor of Maryland and vice president.
On Oct. 10, 1973, Agnew resigned from office after pleading no contest to criminal charges of tax evasion and money laundering. In January 1983, he paid the state of Maryland nearly $270,000 as a result of a civil suit stemming from bribery charges.
Palin currently finds herself in the middle of an investigation over her alleged abuse of power while Alaska governor. She is accused of firing the state’s public safety commissioner, who claims he was terminated after refusing to fire her brother-in-law, Alaska State Trooper Michael Wooten, who was involved in a messy divorce from Palin’s sister. During her term as mayor, the city council threatened to recall her over accusations that she fired the city’s police chief and library director—who refused her suggestions concerning possible banning of books—without proper termination proceedings.
As we enter the last few weeks of the seemingly interminable election campaign, one cannot help but see not only the parallels between Agnew and Palin, but the disjuncture between a party that constantly heralds the Founding Fathers as their political guides, and a vice presidential candidate whose pronouncements seem to fly in the face of their warnings.
McCain promised that this would be a campaign of moral integrity; a campaign focused on issues and not on fear mongering. John Adams, so beloved by conservatives, would have applauded such a noble pledge. “Fear,” Adams wrote, “is the foundation of most governments; but it is so sordid and brutal a passion, and renders men in whose breasts it predominates so stupid and miserable, that Americans will not be likely to approve of any political institution which is founded on it.”
Palin hopes to prove him wrong. Gloaming on to the familiar Cold War Republican mantra of fear and reassurance, she told the nation, “This world of threats and dangers, it’s not just a community and it doesn’t just need an organizer.” Obama’s ultimate goal, she argued, was “to reduce the strength of America in a dangerous world.”
But will the public buy the divisive rhetoric of the GOP’s first woman vice-presidential nominee? It remains to be seen if the voters prefer candidates who emphasize issues that divide the nation or look to those who can unite the country in pursuit of the common good.
President George W. Bush, one of the most partisan presidents in U.S. history, initially aspired to be “a uniter, not a divider.” Agnew showed no such moderation. He took pleasure in making a heightened Red State-Blue State divide a self-conscious goal of the 1968 and 1972 campaigns.
Indeed, the former VP once proudly declared, “dividing the American people has been my main contribution to the national political scene since assuming the office of vice president. . . . I not only plead guilty to this charge, but I am somewhat flattered by it.”
One can only wonder if Palin will aspire to be more like Adams or Agnew.
Steven J. Ross is a professor of history at the University of Southern California. He is finishing a new book, “Hollywood Left and Right: How Movie Stars Shaped American Politics.” His earlier works include “Working-Class Hollywood: Silent Film and the Shaping of Class in America.”
120 Comments
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:35 pm
what a fucking tool the author of this article is. you tool, you poor fucking tool. i feel for your wife and kids, if you have any
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:36 pm
When I consider the financial scandals welling up within Sen. Biden's own family (search FAROUZE on New York Supreme Court CCOP database), it is hard not to wonder Sen. Biden, rather than Gov. Palin, will be “the next Spiro Agnew”.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:36 pm
When I consider the financial scandals welling up within Sen. Biden's own family (search FAROUZE on New York Supreme Court CCOP database), it is hard not to wonder Sen. Biden, rather than Gov. Palin, will be “the next Spiro Agnew”.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:44 pm
Just more left wing socialist marxist crap from a liberal Professor ! Get a life ! At least she wasn't brought up by marxists like Obama's secret “Frank” which is Frank Marshall Davis or his own father in Africa who want's everyones money to spread among those that are too lazy to work.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:46 pm
As an Alaskan female and a registered undeclared voter, I urge all voters to go even further than this excellent article and really get the facts on our very own “Queen of Mean,” Gov. Sarah Palin. She is dangerous, not only as a clone of Spiro Agnew employing vicious attacks on all who are not of the GOP family but because she seems to consider herself as an instrument of God. Her simplistic, vacous solutions to the real problems facing this country are appalling.
Please, no name, email of location on this as Sarah has demonstrated clearly how she deals with foes.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:47 pm
Grow up….get a job, go do something decent.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:47 pm
Mr. Ross, I suggest you start checking your facts a little better. The library questions has been answered (not guilty) among other items you stated. The media is now comparing Obama to Jesus which I find highly offensible. Gov Palin answered attacks made on her by the media. I don't expect you to understand any of this as you live in Southern California, lala land.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:49 pm
All I have to say is,.. Nixon and Agnew WON. And you can't lead if you don't first win.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:51 pm
One of our founding fathers also said one of the greatest threats to democracy is apathy. People should pay attention to what these candidates are saying (or not saying) . I have encountered alot of apathy here in Texas. How can you not care about your country and the direction it will go.Domestically as well as globally we need to change our direction. Go Obama.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:52 pm
animals in office and animals at home. do you really, really feel for his wife and kids? you tipify everything that is wrong about society and government today. good day. ISAIDGOODDAY!
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:54 pm
What a lot of rot. Another immature liberal professor who can't see Biden's mud slinging or vow to bloody his opponent's nose. The NY Post has it right with Obama's “tissue paper then resume.” Obama never had a real job in his life. His community organizer housing and education projects failed. Biden has made a career out of running for office and nothing else.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:54 pm
Very lame. The same 'unbiased' (sic) work as Jill Greenburg did for Atlantic Monthly.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:56 pm
You are obviously not an unbiased reporter who is squarely against Sarah Palin. I am tickled to death that McCain had the guts to pick a woman as his running mate. Obama could not even bring himself to considering it. Even though women make up half the population everyone seems to think we are not qualified. Put us in office and find out. Sarah will make us proud. I used to be a democrat but I am sick and tired of them telling women that they best represent women issues. Let women represent women!!!! Go Sarah!!!!11
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:57 pm
I am so sick of the media's biased reporting of this election. More and more, since television was invented, the media has leaned to the left. As far as I see it, the media is not only leaning to the left, they have fully and intentionally stepped over the line!. What happened to a fair and impartial madia that reports fairly on BOTH candidates weaknesses and strengths? I am so sick of CNN, NBC, CBS, ABC, Fox News, and all the others who do nothing more than strike out at one while they kiss the other's feet!
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:58 pm
I find it interesting that those who disagree with this article don't really argue the points – they just attack the author and anyone who agrees with the author by calling them names and questioning their motives. Kind of like Spiro did. There is absolutely nothing wrong with disagreeing with this article. There is a lot wrong with sleazing the author and those with whom you disagree. Grow up and act like adults! Give intelligent counter arguments that show you can respect differing opinions. If you can't respect the opinions of others then yours is not worth reading.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 4:58 pm
If someone wants to see negative campaigning and mudslinging at its very, very, best, one needs look no further than the founding fathers who Mr. Ross raises up as the champians of moral integrity when it comes to running for office. Political races these days are far tamer than those in the first century of America's existence.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:03 pm
Gee, the lead photo emphasizes the fact that they can both point a finger. Guess they must be very similar.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:03 pm
The underlying implication that Obama is a uniter and McCain/Palin are dividers only serves to cloud the real differnces between them. Obama is a socialist; he believes and espouces equality of result instead of equality of opportunity. He offers those who cannot or will not succeed in the market place a way to punish those who do. He is the champion of the envious and the entitled. Obama as internationalist and pacifist is the perfect pawn of those who believe America's power should be subrugated to the international community; that America should voluntarily emasculate itself by entanglement in international agreements that cedes power to other nations, some if not most, hostile nations. Obama the socialist wants to assume the mantle of philosopher king, presiding over an all intrusive and paternal state exacting from its citizens tribute in accordance with their ability to pay and redistributing it to those according to their needs.
The smoke screen of social issues like civil liberties, the gay agenda, the green agenda, the black agenda only distract attention from the real danger of this man and his allies to weaken us militarily and financially. The real agenda is Obama's discomfort with America's power and his systematic agenda to weaken it. It is an idealistic view of the world as a place filled with nice people, all waiting with open arms for an America to embrace them and share our wealth with them in the belief that this alone will transform human nature.
We've already seen this movie and know how it ends. The Obama philosophy is truly a clear and present danger to America.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:04 pm
yeah and they both resigned in disgrace. We really need to go there again (mccain-palin) NOT !!!!!!
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:05 pm
There are many similarities between Agnew and Palin. Agnew meteorically rose from County Executive to VP. Palin hopes to imitate him. The downside is that Agnew is to-date the only VP to have resigned due to criminal charges — not to mention Nixon's unprecedented impeachment. Palin seems to have vindictive streak in her. So that is another common trait.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:11 pm
The only person on either ticket who has presided over any institution with any of the characteristics of socialism is Sarah Palin. As Governor of Alaska, she, like Hugo Chavez in Venezuela, governs an economy with a citizenry that has grown wealthy enjoying the spoils of socialism.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:12 pm
If you are so interested in political corruption, why do you totally ignore the Obama connections to corrupt Illinois politics (see Rezco) and his association with known terrorists like Ayers and Bernadine Dohrn, who are not only unrepentant of their actions but write books in which they wish they had done more. The media has given Obama a free ride on these matters.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:13 pm
This article is “more of the same” from the Obama-leading journalists. They whine all day long about comments that McCain and Palin asset about the Obama-Biden ticket. Ross' article focuses strongly on criticizing Palin yet never approaches fair critique of the garbage coming out of the Obama tank. Why have these so-called journalists fail to evaluate Obama's lack of experience, past associations with Ayers, Rezco, Wright and the other sleeze political machine Obama favored in Chicago? Where is the evaluation of the so-called politics of “hope and change” that Obama promised? Where is the evaluation of his record of “change or reform” in his years in office? Where is his record? Where is one instance where he has parted from his party to bring about real reform or change? Name his accomplishments!! Obama and Biden, with the help of the likes of Stephen Ross continue to attack and malign Palin only as a distraction from their obvious flaws in real leadership!!
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:16 pm
I'm frightened that even one person would agree with book banning (see Palin's Alaska) or support obvious distortions of an opponent,over and over again. It makes me sad to know that some Americans actually support this woman. Will we as a country never learn from our past mistakes?
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:18 pm
The dirty little secret the media conveinently leaves out of the trooper story is the fact that he tasered his 10 year old step-son. Tasered a kid. No where in the liberal press can one find mention of this important fact. It is always left out of the article. Of course, it's a inconveinent truth that would make for a non-story.
The state's public safety commissioner has recently debunked the story too, saying that he never was pressured or felt pressured to fire the trooper. Again an inconveinent truth that would make for a non-story.
Palin never wanted any books banned by the librarian. She simply asked the librarian what books would be allowed on the shelves. Besides taht, these are positions are appointed and serve at the pleasure of the mayor therefore are subject to termination without a hearing. Another inconveinent truth that would make for a non-story.
Remember, one of the Rules of the Media is: Never let the facts stand in the way of good story.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:20 pm
Divide and conquer, and the comments below (and above, no doubt) show all too well how Agnew succeeded, and politicians from all sides have been guilty of benefiting from the division. It's too bad for us that we can't see that we have a common enemy, and it is not each other.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:25 pm
Palin and McCain are both dangerous, The republican party has controlled the country the last 8 year and have performed miserably. How anyone could be thinking of voting tor a republican iin this election goes beyond reasoning. The supposed party or moraiity has proven time and time again they are anything but.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:25 pm
You are obviously a well-educated, sophisticated and brilliant thinker. Your use of language is so vibrant and clear. Clear in the sense that you are really a fool; to have to use profane and illiterate language to express yourself, you possess all the tools needed to rise in the ranks of the Repub;ican party. You are truly pathetic and typical of the persons the McPalin team wants to reach out to for their vote.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:25 pm
How you can compare a indited and convicted criminal and Gov Palin just shows that you're either very young and weren't here Agnew had to plead “No Contest” or you are simply ignorant and don't follow your journalistic duty by checking the facts of what you are about to present. Agnew was corrupt and a despicable part of our state government that moved on into federal office while continuing his trail of corruption. You want to find a comparison? How about John Wayne and Gov Palin? Neither of them took crap from anyone. How about Superwoman since your piece is fiction? Yes, compare her to Superwoman and it would be a lot closer then comparing a criminal to her.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:25 pm
After reading the comments and reactions to this article, I am afraid and ashamed of what this country is becoming. What a hateful bunch, these McCain/Palin followers are! And Palin is the scariest of them all. I actually might think McCain is a fine man and may have considered voting for him had he not stooped so low as to pick PitBull Palin. Should McCain/Palin win the election, the US will become a joke to the rest of the world.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:26 pm
Here! Here!; Palin is more like Agnew in a skirt; I remember him so clearly and was so HAPPY when he was forced to resign.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:29 pm
Can you imagine if Barry H.O. had to actually do a hard days work? What a creep.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:29 pm
FOX (A.K.A. FASCIST) “NEWS” LEANS TO THE LEFT??? Are you that seriously deluded??? o.0
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:29 pm
The fact is, Obama's not a socialist. He's actually a Space Alien. These beings are out to gain control of our entire planet. If you think this is weird, it's little more weird than some of the critiques of Obama. The Republicans are the media show. They are the Hollywood away from Hollywood.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:29 pm
Some people seem afraid of change — one guy mentioned us having to share US wealth but if we don't stop the downward spiral caused by 8 years of Republican ineptitude, we won't have any wealth to share. What we have now is NOT working. Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. A McCain/Palin administration would be insanity.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:31 pm
LOL, you are seriously deluded, too. If you think that the Saracuda sticks up for women's rights while opposing the choice of having an abortion in cases of rape or incest, then you go right ahead and vote for her. If you can bring yourself to do that, then you were never a true Democrat to begin with…
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:32 pm
So where is the real America then, Alice. And how's the weather?
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:32 pm
Good thoughtful article, but I have to question your use of “gloaming”. I don't think that's the word you wanted to use there.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:33 pm
Hey js, if you think the McCain/Palin followers are a hateful bunch then say something bad about your Boy Barry Hussein and then pray you don't get murdered.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:33 pm
To those people who seem to think that Sarah Palin is gonna be so great because they are women and she is a woman, I say this: Please start wearing a hat made of foil, so we know who you are!! Have any of you read about how “well” she has ran the state of Alaska? This lady spits out blatant lies and deceit about what she has done, and it's stupid to me because one only has to do some minor research to find out the truth, and whats been coming out of her mouth isn't it. For goshsakes, she put a multimillion dollar sports complex into a town that didn't and still does not have a waste treatmenty facility. She was the largest supporter of the “bridge to nowhere” and in fact even used it as her platform when running for governor in 2006, and only turned her back on it after John McCain squashed it in congress and made it clear to her that she would get NO money from the feds, but would have to build the bridge on state funds. So, the government said 'thanks, but no thanks' to her, and not the other way around. Come on people, do your research, if these two get elected and he dis, she will be your next president. By the way, this is also the lady that just barely avoided a recall election as mayor, and now faces a possible recall election as governor if found guilty of the issues she is being investigated for currently. So, this is a lady that has a hard time running a state of 670,000 yet some of you want to possibly put her in the position of being second in line to run the country? I think we all need to vote based on the issues and more importantly, the TRUTH, not based on lies and misrepresentation of the facts, and someones gender.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:34 pm
Idiots such as you should not be allowed to post. Your choice of language toward the author shows that you are either drunk or in hiding? I do not agree with his article, his choice of comparisons or the real reason he has for writing this. One thing is for sure. He surely got a looser such as you to crawl out from out of the toilet basin. At least the author used his position to write his most bias opinion. You just lifted your head from the toilet bowl and just spat some roaches out of your mouth. Go back and die wont you!
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:34 pm
Yes, and the best way to win is to kill your opponents and attack with no mercy or ethics. I like this. I'm going to go out there and WIN! I need money. I'll just kill someone for it. Yeah! How did you people get on here? Was there an ad for ignorant slime?
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:35 pm
Come on. The more you try to rub her out, the more we women are leaning to cross over to the Republicans.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:35 pm
Wow, apparently you like to slander unselfish public servants who make the noble goal of helping others into their life's work. Funny how you say all that about Obama and Biden but not anything on John McCain, who has never been off the government payroll in his entire adult life in 50+ years, not to mention marrying a multi-million-dollar trust fund baby after cheating on his wife with her! LOL, typical lame Republican hypocrite! LOL!
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:35 pm
Talk about bias! Wow! What a ridiculous comparison obiviously written by an Obama worshipper who fears that Gov. Palin has already upset the Obama apple cart.
Shame on you Steven. Certainly you can find something substantive to write about. If you can't, go deliver burgers and ask if the customer wants fries with that.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:35 pm
Actually, the library question was answered and the answer was guilty. Palin fired the librarian and reinstated her shortly thereafter due to public outcry.
As for comparing any politician to Jesus….that is absurd. I haven't heard any media comparing Obama to Jesus. I do, however, remember a disgusting red,white and blue bumper sticker seen on many cars in the South during the last election that said……Bush/Jesus.
If you actually READ what Jesus had to say about politics you'd discover that he wasn't in to politics at all. He clearly taught the seperation of Church and state. Having said that, Socialism is the only political system on Earth today that comes close to Christ's teachings. But again, He didn't align himself with any political movements at all. One thing is for sure, since you brought it up, He most certainly was NOT a republican!
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:37 pm
Oh my gosh! She did what? Put her in prison for 90 years. Arrest her now along with anyone who would dare vote for a conservative. They all hate little children and want to starve poor people. My mommy said so.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:40 pm
I'll say this about Obama……………Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, Uh, oh shit, my readin machine broke.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:40 pm
“One” doesn't have to wonder…this is as obvious as the vultures nesting in Palin's hairdo. She's already Agnew on steroids. At least Ted Agnew was not a religious fanatic on top of being an attack dog for Nixon; he was just a garden-variety cynic and opportunist. Palin is far more dangerous, and if she ever gets her hands on the launch codes, we may all be “On The Beach” together. McCain must be trounced for this reason, and this reason alone, if no other.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:42 pm
I urge Adam Thomas to check out most of the so called facts in this comment. I agree you have done some minor research. I suggest you do some MAJOR research Buster. Almost all of your comments are erroneous. You have fallen for the party line of the Obama obnoxious smear squad. Go look in the mirror Adam, and you will see a naive person who responds to malicious rumors and twisted statements and doesn't even realize it.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:44 pm
Adam Thomas – Palin actually has a record of making decisions, and being an government executive. Knock yourself out criticizing her. All it does is illustrate that she DOES have MORE experience than Obama.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:47 pm
Very thoughtful. In her short introduction to the electorate Sarah Palin has sucked all of the air out of the room. With sheer bombast and an attractive story she has taken us all by storm. Time will tell whether, as we are led to believe, Sarah slew the dragons singlehandedly and is the sole contributor to Alaska's 30-year success story or whether she has just taken all the credit following her recent blitz of exposure. We will no doubt hear from others who do not present the picture in such simplistic (myopic) terms and are willing to share credit when warranted. It seems that this lady has difficulty with direct opposition and has left a trail of bodies silenced by her success. Not all bad in a politician but one hopes that her handlers will discipline the rhetoric which is becoming tiresome in scripted self-serving repetition. Time to dazzle us with your intellect and ideas as well as your style, Sarah! You have some serious competition in this race and given John's age you might just have to carry the ball as leader of the free world. Dogma and bombast got us into our present mess. Take your time and show us some intellect and substance.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:49 pm
It is much easier and apparently more popular to use such trivial bull as the “lipstick on a pig” comment as an “issue??” rather than go after each other on the real issues, you know, war, immigration, idiotic trade agreements, the massive deficit, etc. The Republicans and Democrats are like one of those old 45 rpm records. A differnet song on each side but the same old piece of plastic.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:50 pm
Those that say Palin is “dangerous” are nothing more than full of rage and jealousy over the fact that she had and has a steel pair and has advanced this far this fast in her lifetime. Just because you sat at home and twiddled your thumbs and did nothing in your life isn't a reason to put someone down. Now, go out and do something with your lives instead of being hostile toward her.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:50 pm
I stil think we should really stick with learning (if it can be found anywhere -for they sure arent' telling us Obama-McCain) of these “reforms” Senator Mccain is so cleverly hiding from us – maybe he feels we are to naive? to understand his english? and senator Obama's “change…change…change”,,what change is that again?..and all you get is blah…blah….blah…Senator Mccain speaks of our America!…ok I for one am listening!!! so what about our America!..say something…anything? please…I promise I will try to really focus and who knows? maybe just maybe I might get the point….and by the way senator Obama…what is that change again? …do you really think that the rest of us that arent smocking….really do not know that you will, you have to, follow your own! political machine's politics which by the way has appointed you as a distarction?…man, we are in trouble. No blue sky in sight. Now all of you go back to your Obama-McCain nonsence….blah….blah….blah….
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:51 pm
You, along with the rest of the liberal media, have no conscious when it comes to serving your own agenda through your brand of “journalism” (I guess that explains why it's one of the least respected professions). Your relentless attacks on Palin are so incredibly one-sided. Where's the commentary of Biden? Where's the headline about Obama's drug use or his association to a hate church for 20 years? Your attempts to influence the uninformed are shameful. The American people are more insightful than you think my friend.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:55 pm
The liberals on the left are only jealous that they did not anticipate a woman would be popular in the overall scheme of the national election. Biden will enforce that Obama and his inexperience will not win the election. Hillary will not bad mouth another woman, much less the Governor of Alaska. The Clinton's will do anything to be President, again. This will not ever happen anyway. The majority of voters in the USA can see through the usual tax and spend mentality of the DNC.The brilliant decision to nominate Sarah Palin as Vice President will ensure the McCain and Palin ticket a sure waltz to victory in November! Despite her pundits, Palin will prevail and McCain will be elected President. Semper Fi…
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:55 pm
I take great delight in knowing that 1/2 the supposed Obama supporters will vote McCain once inside the confines of the voting booth. At which point Hillary Clinton will receive the blame for another Democratic loss.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 10:57 pm
Sorry John. The Democrats in Congress have controlled the country during the bad years. You should go study up on how the Federal government actually works.
Neither of the candidates is a saint, but McCain is clearly the less dangerous of the two. Obama is very evasive, but a cursory check of his life and background send cold chills down my spine.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:57 pm
YOU MIRROR MY VIEWS EXACTLY. NOBAMA.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 5:57 pm
Bad Decisions, Steve! She is as corrupt as the party leaders above her.
With the economy where it is today, I believe that Bin Laden may actually accomplish what he set out to do in the first place-destroy our economy and our way of life.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:01 pm
I hope that in end the next few weeks, someone will have the nerve in the media to point out all the poison that the Republician Party is putting our country through just for the White House. A true American Christian is a healer not a divider!! I hope it will be worth it for Ms. Palin when the dust settles. Evil and lies always comes back to get one in the end. Four more years of lies, cover-ups and hurting the people; let's pray not!!!!!!
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:03 pm
Pasted below is an example of a “news” story from the AP. This is at least the 6th article of this type I've encountered in the past 5 days. As they write about McCain or Palin's statements, they bother to counter each one with partial facts to discredit the statements. I posting this to ask any Obama supporter to past a similar example written about Obama. It should be on from a “news” organization, written as a “news” article and not commentary, with multiple attempts to refute what Obama has stated.
This is why the Republicans will be forced to go negative. If you don't want this to occur, call your comdrades(use your giant facist brownshirt email list) and go protest in front of the news orgs HQ. You won't because it favors your candidate. So spare the faux disdain for negative campaigning. I would swear that this article is something that would be published directly out of Obamas' ntational HQ.
By DAVID ESPO, AP Special Correspondent 38 minutes ago
GOLDEN, Colo. – Vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin said Monday she would concentrate on energy, government reform and helping families with special needs children if Republicans win the White House this fall, and drew cheers when she said, “too often government is the problem” rather than the solution.
Campaigning on her own, the Alaska governor also said Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama “wants to raise income taxes and raise payroll taxes and raise investment income taxes and raise business taxes and raise the death tax.
“But John McCain and I know that's not the way you grow the economy,” she added.
In fact, independent groups such as the Tax Policy Center have concluded that four out of five U.S. households would receive tax cuts under Obama's proposal, which include higher income and payroll taxes only for the wealthiest wage-earners.
McCain's selection of Palin a little over two weeks ago has brought renewed enthusiasm to his campaign, particularly among conservatives who have long been wary of him. Yet the governor, with little experience outside her own state, has largely been kept out of public view while aides seek to bring her up to date on a range of issues.
The current trip is her first outside her home state without McCain, and the schedule was relatively light, with only a speech in Colorado and a fundraiser in Ohio. The governor has had only one substantive media interview since joining the ticket, and she and her husband, Todd, ignored reporters' shouted questions throughout the day.
Aides went to unusual lengths to maintain her privacy aboard her chartered campaign jet, pulling a curtain across the center aisle to separate the Palins and their top aides from the rest of the passengers.
Appearing before an enthusiastic crowd in swing-state Colorado, Palin struck populist themes. She said that as governor of Alaska she had broken “the old oil monopoly that had controlled” the state, and eliminated the “good-ol'-boys network of lobbyists and special interests” once in power.
She also referred to her time as mayor of Wasilla in terms that echoed former President Reagan, a hero to many conservatives.
“We became part of the fastest growing area of the state because businesses wanted to be there,” she said. “They also knew that they would have elected leaders knowing that government isn't always the answer. In fact, too often government is the problem.”
Presenting her credentials as a reformer, she told her audience that she had told Congress “thanks, but no thanks” when it came to the so-called Bridge to Nowhere, designed to link a small Alaskan village with the mainland. She made no mention of the fact that she favored federal funding for the structure before she turned against it.
She also said, without elaboration, that “too often, the government gets in the way when innovators take on cancer or Parkinson's or Alzheimers.
“To help Americans overcome these terrible diseases, our administration will lead efforts to find new treatments and cures,” said Palin. The governor did not mention embryonic stem cell research, which many advocates say holds the key to treatment or even cures of numerous diseases. Palin, along with many other conservatives, oppose federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. McCain's campaign is currently airing a radio commercial that indicates support for an expansion of the federal involvement in stem cell research.
The speech was the first time Palin has indicated what role McCain might give her in his administration.
She said Alaska has nearly 20 percent of the nation's supply of oil and gas and said her job as vice president would be to help McCain, “implement his 'all of the above' strategy for energy independence.”
She also said she would play a role in an effort to reform government.
“I've got another idea that I think Senator McCain likes. In Alaska, we took the state checkbook and put it online, so everyone can see where their money goes. We're going to bring that kind of openness to Washington,” she said.
In fact, there already is a searchable database that allows the public to track federal grants and contracts, and Obama was a principle force behind the 2006 law that created it, along with Sen. Tom Coburn, R-Okla.
The Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act is one of Obama's few legislative accomplishments in his short Senate tenure.
Palin, who has a four-month-old son with Down Syndrome, said she would ensure government is on the side of families with special needs children.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:04 pm
more liberal blather. sigh, wasted time reading tabloid trash, should have just turned on dnctv if i wanted bias
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:06 pm
Both where also picked over a Romney! And, there is 40 years difference. Lightning struck twice!
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:08 pm
Mary, Be careful what you wish for. Whenever you think something can't get worse, it does. We have difficulty now, but I wouldn't trade my place in capitalist America with anyone in Venezuela, Ecuador, the old Soviet Union, or the old East Germany; all models of socialist utopia. Socialism does not work because people will not work under socialism. The government cannot create wealth, it can only re-distribute it. In order for the government to do good with your money, first they have to take it away from you. It's not important that other people in the world like us; it is only important that they respect us. There are many reasons why people in the world don't like us and most of it is not our doing. They don't like us because we are successful and represent a threat to them in the arena of ideas. Don't listen to the hand-wringers; they are idealists about a world that is not a nice place, populated by people who mean us harm, and by those who want to take what we have by force.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 11:11 pm
hmm.. another firing… looks like we have found Palin’s M.O!
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:11 pm
I Don't Believe That Palin is going to get McCain Elected as President Of The United States
That's Not Just My Appenion It's The Thoughts Of People that Don't Even Vote
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:12 pm
Jaime, YOUR VP candidate got her “professional” degree in JOURNALISM…comments??
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:13 pm
Uhm Steve, didn't the NAZI's ban books (like AGNEW V2.0? And the word COMRADE doesn't usually mix with NAZI's, it's for COMMUNISTS.
Regardless, this is an editorial. Editorials have opinions.
Quick Q though. Do you expect the news media to just throw out McCain's claims out there. That would make them McSame's mouthpiece. He has it, it's called Faux News.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:14 pm
Palin called dinosaurs, “Satan Lizards” in her church…. I'm sorry, but as a lifelong Republican, I can NOT vote for her and McCain.
Literally, she would be the most ill-prepared and unintelligent person to hold the presidency or vice-presidency.
After reading Anne Kilkenney's email, I have to agree::::
There are literally MILLIONS of people more qualified to be vice-president than Sarah Palin.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:21 pm
Where have you been lately? Our country is already weakened miliarily and financially. Good old King George.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:23 pm
After reading all this staggeringly ignorant liberal AND conservative blog “blather”, I can only pray that none of you are registered to vote.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:25 pm
I read you’re Article and the only thing that comes to my mind is that you don't like her, and to compare her someone who is/was corrupt is kind of telling about you and you’re Article.
Sorry Professor I give you a C-, because you gave a lot of False and misleading statement and did not do proper research of facts.
You’re a professor of history yet you do shabby Research? Ever wonder why the Media gets pounded for loose articles when even University Professors do loose Research!
You make some far reaches in your profiling of a candidate, you should be comparing her to Biden but I guess if you did try – you’ll fault your own logic?
Her Trooper Gate has been resolved and proven in her favor, yet you don’t mention this in your article?
Her Liberian Gate has been resolved and proven in her favor, yet you don’t mention this? You also don’t mention the other facts of why she wanted to change these Positions and according to Alaska Policies/Laws she has the right to terminate these positions with Out Cause.
Sounds like someone wanting change and the Old Party Politics where trumping up charges and false Lies? Sounds familiar?
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:28 pm
Palin is a self-righteous, religious hypocrit. While she so gleefully paraded her unwed pregnant daughter and boyfriend across the stage at the convention, she was simutaneouly sending a message to teenagers in the United States and abroad that sex before marriage is acceptable, and if it feels good just do it, only, if you get pregnant keep the baby. This was a gigantic slap in God's face and in the faces of mothers and fathers trying to instill biblical sexual morality into their children. Instead of showing a penitent heart before the world, she used the convention as a bully-pulpit spewing out self-righteous venom and hatred. Palin is a not not fit to hold any office in the United States of America, and GOD CERTAINLY DOES NOT APPROVE HER MESSAGE!
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:28 pm
As a lifelong Democrat, I will vote Republican for the first time ever. Obama and Biden are the worst ever nominees we've had to vote for. Obama is not qualified to be president, and Biden has overstayed his welcome in the senate. Hillary should have been selected as the nominee, but the liberal kooks of the party have seized control… It's a real shame!
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:29 pm
Come on Anne Kilkenny had an Axe to grind because she didn't like Palin, Most of her iformation in the email has been proven to be False and remarks made in a pattern of mis-guidness by Kilkenney.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:31 pm
This Democrat is going to vote for McCain and Palin.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:33 pm
I used to respect Mr. McCain for his experience and age, but sadly he is showing very poor judgement and no wisdom or love for this country, he is showing his true colors, win at whatever cost , is sad, I just hope people can see that they are helping McCain create a monster, and even McCain won't be able to stop her. Both are preaching nothing but lies because that's what people want to hear, but not all people, most of us do respect our country, love our family, believe in our faith and don't have to be preaching about it, we show it with our actions, and so far, the more they talk their meaness, vicious speeches, and hiding from reality and the press or people who would like to ask her about her “experience and judgement” the more they are turning people off, .
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:33 pm
The bottom line is that Palin has LESS EXPERIENCE than Obama. She is also extremely irresponsible having a child at the age of 43. It is a medical fact that the older a woman becomes, especially over the age of 40, enormously increases the chances of a down syndrome baby. Palin did not even know what the BUSH DOCTRINE consisted of and she does not give a straight answer to questions. McCain is senile!! There were much better choices ELIZABETH DOLE, for example if he wanted to select a woman. The best choice for the party would have been Mike Huckaby. Palin also has a pregnant, unmarried daughter. The Relgious right would be attacking this issue like the coming of the apocalypse if this were the daughter of Obama or Biden. Just another example of hypocrisy compounded by the wacko religious fundamentalist in the DIVIDED STATES OF AMERICA. McCain is attempting to become the oldest President in US History. Chances are, he will NOT SURVIVE his First Term if he is elected. The real question is “Do you want an INEXPERIENCED, UNPROVEN, IRRESPONSIBLE person like PALIN as Commander in Chief??” If you have an IQ anywhere in the triple digits I sincerely pray the answer would be NO WAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:35 pm
As an independent lifelong Alaskan woman who actually voted for Nixon-Agnew, I urge people to choose wisely. Sarah continues the myth that she never supported the bridge to nowhere in all her speeches, except when she was in Alaska this week.. Before being tapped for VP, she promised full cooperation with an investigator into Troopergate, but now stonewalls. The GOP touts her tax cuts, but we have no state income or sales taxes to cut! Her sole foreign “trip of a lifetime” consists of a couple days visiting US troops in Germany and Kuwait, but “would not blink” at taking on Russia.
Remember a pitbull bites, but it also lacks good judgment.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:36 pm
Very well put. How can she change anything if she is so lost in her own convictions.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:38 pm
Let me guess… you are suffering from alzheimers???
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:38 pm
You left out the fact that the 10 year old step son asked to be tasered because he was curious what it felt like and that it was a training level charge and not a full taser charge. As for troopergate, you have to wonder why Palin has stopped cooperating with the investigation when she initially said she would cooperate fully? Why she is not releasing 1100 emails? And before you start whining about this being a Democratic run investigation, you should know that there are more Republicans on the legislative committee then Democrats, and that a Republican cast the deciding vote to subpoena Todd Palin, because he believes that it should all be put out on the table.
And as for banning books maybe there was no books banned, but she approached the librarian three times and then attempted to dismiss her only retreating when there was a recall effort.
And as a city council member she certainly did try to get a book removed.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:47 pm
One last before I put in my last two hours of a ten hour day. I'm working my tail end off to create a future for me and mine and because, quite frankly, I like to work. In spite of this effort, it is a struggle, however it is all too obvious that this is just the way of the world. That's correct folks, the world is changing rapidly and some of the results we will like and others we will not like at all. Many of these changes will occur regardless of which party is in power, executive, legislative, or judicial. The world is changing at an increasing pace, and I happen to believe that Americans will be better of by reducing, or restricting the growth of government, creating transparency, and creating a new military to protect our sovereignty
Obama's pronouncements and at times winning personality is very tempting. He can come across as arrogant at times, but I like confident people and often have a hard time distinguishing between the two. But Obama also appeals to those who are resentful and even hate in the abstract, and want to blame something, anything for the way things are. And then of course there are the savior save us type who will vote for anyone that is new and will rescue us from the status quo.
Folks, this isn't new! I have a brother who fancies himself as an intellectual. Kind of weird because he has worked his way into an executive position and has to be brutal and make decisions to fire and lay people off (for more profits don't you know), and he has voted for John Anderson (look it up kids), Ross Perot, and now Obama. This is a childish, almost escapist approach to choosing who will lead our republic. He is not going to save seemingly new ideas and us all from the way things have been done with his inspiring voice.
If Obama does make it in, he his going to be faced with some tough realities and you'll see a watered down version of what he wants to accomplish. Not that it's revolutionary anyway, much as the extreme right would have you believe. But there are some tough decisions and very heavy lifting that will have to take place in the maelstrom of hundreds of congressmen, senators, and their aides, being blown about by an increasingly aggressive and technically potent media. In addition to my belief that government must be contained, I am voting for John McCain because he is best equipped to perform this heavy lifting, the mundane realities of governing. John McCain is not some pie in the sky political savior like Obama or Palin; he's the real deal.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:49 pm
Pretty good article, spot on. The history is there.
I called this the day after she was selected as McCain's VP for other reason. I did my research on Spiro Agnew only after finding out he was the last sitting govenor to become VP, which Palin would be the next. Also, Spiro was chosen over a popular Romney as well.
I do have my disagreements though, while Agnew was undoubtedly Nixon's attack dog, McCain's campaign has pretty much been doing that without her.
You can scream biasness all you want, but this is an Editorial. Editorials are the OPINIONS of the editors. But, take a look at the information. It's for the most part true. Agnew satisifed conservatives, was a political newcomer, a suprise pick and had legal problems. These are all things Palin has as well.
Disagree with the presentation, but the facts are present. It's an editorial, get over it folks. They appear in the “Opinion” section of the newspaper.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:55 pm
Sarah Palin and John McCain are cowards. She refuses to take questions from her audiences (even though they are pro-McCain) and will not take questions from reporters on her campaign plane. She has not met with a single newspaper Editorial board. It is understandable since Charlie Gibson threw her softballs and she still looked like a fool (“I can see Alaska from my house!”). McCain is scared to death to let her say anything unscripted (by the way, for you “pro-lifers”, did you hear her answer on Gibson's question about abortion? She said that she was pro-life, but “respected” the views of those who disagreed with her. SHE IS NOT A TRUE BELIEVER! Real pro-lifer's think pro-choice advocates are immoral murderers. She didn't want to say what she really believed because she knows that women in America would not stand for someone with such right wing views. Gibson really let her off the hook. All he had to do was ask “do you believe Roe v. Wade should be overruled and will you and McCain appoint judges to the Supreme Court who will do it? The minute she has to answer that, she will be finished.)
I know what some of you will say, “The liberal media is biased against her and will just try to make her look bad”. But if she had any confidence in her ability, if she knew anything other than the flash cards Karl Rove gives her, she would face the “enemy” and show them up. She is proud of the fact that she has never on Meet the Press and will not go on it, but hundreds of Republicans fight to get on that show. Obama went on O'Reilly (Why does O'Reilly ask a question then answer it himself?). No, Palin will go on Hannity. She will go to “town hall meetings” that are populated only with McCain supporters. If I were a network or news outlet, I would not print a single word she said until she sat down for an interview.
But it doesn't matter. The Bush/McCain economic policies and have come home to roost. Its funny. McCain and Palin say they will throw the bums out who did this to America. Well, the guys who did it was Bush/Cheney.
Finally, there is only one question I would love to ask the Republican candidates for President and Vice President – Are you proud of the way your President has handled his job on the economy and the war in Iraq? I wonder what they would say?
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:55 pm
I always wondered how hard it is to run a state that exports commodoties when commodoties are at record highs. I don't buy her reformer image. If Alaskans receive payouts from oil revenue's why does it receive the highest amount of earmarks per capita? Those earmarks are serving as welfare for an entire state that doesn't need it.
I may have over simplified being a govenor, but lets admit this. Budgets in Alaska can't be too hard when there are record prices for everything your state exports. Tax revenue has to be up, cutting taxes must be easy.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:56 pm
Curious Al, sorry for the communist references and all. It's important stuff, and it's good to see that people care enough to post their thoughts and views. I know the article looks like an editorial, bit it is a news story, which was my point. I'm still looking for the Obama version of this. It's not out there, just the attack pieces on McCain and Palin. It's sad, but ultimately ok. Remember how George Bush (dare we speak the name) won in the face of the same media headwind. Makes you wonder what the tally would be on a level media field.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 11:57 pm
I disagree with you. The US cannot be strong militarily (however it might be asserted in the future to exert our influence in the world to promote our interests or our boundaries) unless we are first strong economically and globally competitve. In the short and long view, we are not economically well positioned. Our workforce on all levels has been neglected — from educational opportunites with a real-workforce-skills and critical-thinking emphasis, to affordable heathcare, to a taxation policy that favors the middle-class, to a comprehensive energy policy that focuses on and gives big tax incentives to alternatives to oil and gas (here I could go on and on because I make an incredible living in oil and gas and was born and bred in it). The results of excessive deregulation of most industries coupled with a lack of enforcement of the few remaining regulations engineered by the GOP are blatantly evident from our mounting crisis in mortgage lending, to financial institutions in general, to consumer product safety, to the Enviroment, to name a few.
The Government isn’t the answer to everything for which we strive individually or communally. Neither is the unbridled short-sighted Market which has created alot of the mess we face now.
You seem to be really afraid and with an undisclosed agenda. You seem to me to be trying to spread fear to divide Americans to distract them from the real issues that need to be confronted urgently and thoughtfully and courageously and collectively responsibly. You seem to have no factual understanding of Senator Obama or the long-sighted, democratically engaged and rationally educated message he is.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 6:59 pm
Betty, I agree that McCain's campaign is trying to pump up her foreign policy experience, by overplaying this trip. They tried to imply that she was in Iraq when she wasn't and therefore incorrectly imply she is an expert on Iraq. Just like her trip to Ireland, which amounts to a refueling stop. And please proximity to Russia is not a qualification to be Vice President. I live near a Federal Reserve Bank, that doesn't qualify me to be the Fed Chair.
Reform? She would have to start with her state first since they got the most earmarks per capita of any state. Transparent government? Well okay then release the 1100 emails she has withheld, and lets talk about the other bridge to nowhere, which Palin is saying yes, please to. McCain is now claiming he carries the mantle of change, and yes for this election he has changed starting with his stance on the Bush Tax Cuts, drilling, torture, sucking up to the far right, and taking the high road. I was actually a McCain supporter in 2000, but have been really disappointed that he has sacrificed his integrity to win this election.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 7:07 pm
We need change! Let's elect two lawyers. One has a Harvard degree. That will be new in Washington. More like intellectual inbreeding.
Comment posted September 16, 2008 @ 12:10 am
js, I’d take it further than saying that if McCain wins, the US will become a joke to the rest of the world to saying that in that case, the US will become inconsequential in the world– incapable of competing economically with China and Europe and resultantly of exerting any miltary power (we have based on economic strenght) to defend our borders or to extend of will in anyway anywhere.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 7:17 pm
Cultural and Social Darwinism will not save this country from its economic woes. Cultural wars will enhance division among Americans .This will not help the war effort.” United we stand/divided we fall “remember? Rural families are no better or worse than urban families. they are both American families. I will not vote for a candidate that runs a campaign based on the highlighting of differences among people. No McCain/ No Palin
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 7:26 pm
This only works if the decisions made have been good ones. Bush himself called himself “the decider” and look where that has got us. Palin's decisions need to be scrutinized, but so far I am not seeing where she has made good decisions. As mayor she took a city that had no debt and left it with a 20+ milliion dollar debt. At the same time she sought and received 27 million dollars in federal funds for Wasilla. As Governor she has sought 200 million plus in earmarks, which is more per capita then any state. She also is supporting a second bridge to nowhere. And then we get to troopergate, which guilty or not could have been completely avoided if she had heeded warnings. Then as a candidate she has lied about her stance on the bridge to nowhere, and repeated the lie over and over without blinking. Nope, not good decision making in my eyes.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 7:29 pm
Steve, your right. Let's elect someone who graduated almost in the bottom of his class( who to in to the Academy because daddy was an Admiral) and a beauty queen/journalism major who went to about 5 schools in 6 years (look it up). Yeah, that's much more impressive than being the President of Harvard Law Review. Do you have any idea how smart and the breadth of knowledge you need to be the President of Harvard Law Review? And sorry, going to a great school doesn't make you and elitist. George Bush went to Yale! He got in cause daddy went there (the traditional affirmative action) and barely got out. With our economy in shambles and foreign policy in disarray, let's elect stupid people! She can see Alaska from her porch! Putin is shaking in his boots. I wonder if she could see the Fed from her window, then I would know she understands something about economics. Yes! Stupid is better than smart. What was I thinking?
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 7:34 pm
This Republican is going to vote for Obama and Biden. I supported McCain in 2000, but have been disappointed by his “change” in sucking up to Bush and the far right, and we have tried the economic policies for eight years and it hasn't worked out for us.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 7:48 pm
At least Obama has been in the senate and has familiarity with state, federal, and foreig affairs, Steve. According to McCain/Palin, her foreign experience is derived from the fact that “Russia isn't to far away from my backdoor.” LOL. She has NO federal experience, and her state government experience is almost worthless, as they have threatened to recall her twice. Have you seen her interview with Charlie Gibson?? C'mon man, learn to thin k for yourself, and do some research instead of just repeating the propganda.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 7:56 pm
This Democrat is going to vote for Obama/Biden. have the sneaking suspocoin that all of you so called “democrats” that are going to vote republican this year are either really Republicans trying to find away to drum up some new disinformation on behalf of the rnc by calling yourself a democrat, or you're just scared of a black man being president. Either way, you are obviously one of the many mindless lemmings who can't wait to jump off the Bush/McCain cliff and try to take the rest of the country with you.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 9:37 pm
Now we an article about the next Carter! There is material to also support this theory.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 9:40 pm
Hey MarvAlan, any presidential scholar will tell you that Nixon and Carter are two of the smartest presidents in recent memory. And trust me son, the business and government landscape is littered with some incredibly intelligent folk. Electing a prez is a little more complex than finding the smartest policy wonk or a lawyer.
MarvAlan, wasn't that the guy who was caught having sex wearing diapers? Maybe that was Marv Albert.
At any rate, you're obviously a lot smarter than I am and I probably shouldn't even vote 'cause I'm stupid. Wait a minute you ACTUALLY think that the president, whether McCain or Obama is going to have a significant impact on the economy? AND you think that the fed gives a rats #$@# what any president thinks? Ok, never mind. I'm voting, and you should stay home. Good grief. Read up boy, Read up.
And what is this hating in the abstract thing with Bush. Hate is a very personal thing, that when transfered to a public figure, speaks more about the person hating than the object of that emotion. Are you allright? Let's see, the caustic comments were “beauty queen”, are you ugly or losing your hair?. There was “daddy got him into Yale”, did you flunk out. Is that it? Oh, and one more, “stupid”. Well, its just a lame comment.
Or is this whole hate Bush thing just a modern societies the classic need to create a villan and worship a hero. Now that's an interesting idea to follow. There have been some comparisons to Obama the community organizer being like Jesus the community organizer. Perhaps the better comparison is Bush being made a scapegoat like Jesus and crucified. And you helped.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 9:50 pm
I can't hardly wait till November 4. On that day when Obama / Biden will amass 273 electoral votes to McCain / Palin 's 265, Lou Dobbs, the self-appointed reactionary at CNN will be drinking sour milk and eating raw crow. The right-wing GOP die hards will be hiding in their closets and turn off their TV sets and throw the unread newspapers into the fireplace.
Yes, Obama and Biden have already won the election, but the media won't disclose it because they want ratings. The states that will put Obama and Biden over the top are not Ohio and Florida, but Colorado and New Hampshire.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 9:54 pm
Somebody post the non-editorial news article like the AP story I post below that is critical of Obama. IT DOESN”T EXIST! Some of you have broken down and can't think for yourselves. Bush bad. Obama good. McCain like Bush. Wait, why are we mad at Bush again. It can be that the world is a tough competitive place and we don't like the reality of this so we look for a scapegoat. Darn you Bush for making those terrorist attack our country! Darn you bush for ensuring that there hasn't been another attack in our country for the past seven years (c'mon give him THAT). Darn you Bush for making a tough and INCREDIBLY unpopular decision to take the fight to our enemies. And darn you Bush for having the courage to allow those in the military to prosecute this war even when they made mistakes only to fix them later and enjoy great succuss that very few thought we'd ever see. Stupid Bush! I hate in the abstract! You hear me? Huh, I guess not.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 9:58 pm
Louis Olivas, The election is about making others feel bad? That's what the election means to you? Wow.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 11:19 pm
I agree : Some of you (like Steve) have broken down and can't think for yourselves. Seriously, Bush has been bad for our country. Obama isn't the President. There is footage of McCain saying that he voted with Bush 90% of the time (when it was popular). Therefore, McSame is bad too. Tough competitive place? Strange. You must have forgotten where you are at–the usa. Not only does China and the Saudis own our treasury of debt, but the banks and our money is closing. Scapegoat? Baby, a failure is a failure. And yes many do blame Bush for the attacks that happened during his watch and vacations at the ranch. You're sick if you believe Bush is your lord and savour. After what happened, worldwide security has changed. Fight to our enemies? You mean invading Iraq like Kuwait for its oil and an ax-to-grind with their President because he made Bush's dad look bad and lose the election against Clinton? Read my lips, torture from soldiers aren't good. Our so-called enemies are comparing us to them. Also, don't forget your lord and saviour didn't want the new GI bill. Does he really care about the soldiers? Use your brain if you have one or get manipulated again strange person who voted for Bush twice. Look what you and your friends have done to our country…
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 11:37 pm
No. He is not some pie in the sky political savior. Instead, he is in your face. McCain has had the same policies since the beginning of the campaign. nothing. He's been in washington for 26 years and he has just figured out that there needs to be reform and oh yeah–change. He just realized that there is something wrong with Bush. He's not fooling me, though. He is not the imagined POW & Maverick. He is a cra-zee old man that is going to make things worse. And his VP, who speaks in tongues, would continue to speak in tongues. She is like the biggest LIAR for heaven sakes. She scares me. She remind me of the polygamist in Texas, the children of the corn movie, and the Salem witchcraft trials.
But, McCain's plans: stay negative, lie, sell your soul to the Devil/party, and take the Democrats themes of change, enough, G-d giving potential, and fighting for the middle class Americans while only giving tax breaks to the rich.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 11:40 pm
Im registered and trying my best to get others to register.
Comment posted September 15, 2008 @ 11:42 pm
you know you wasn't going to vote for Obama no matter what. why do you waste so much time when you already know the truth?
Comment posted September 16, 2008 @ 12:38 am
I think the most obvious similarity between Agnew and Palin was only implied and maybe that is being overly subtle. Both are/were lying bags of manure.
Comment posted September 16, 2008 @ 11:42 am
I think a comparison of McCain's honesty with Nixon's honesty would also be very valid
Comment posted September 25, 2008 @ 6:41 am
I expanded on the palin/agnew thing, so come look on my blog gregplus.blogspot.com
Comment posted November 30, 2008 @ 1:55 pm
She is a moron. There is no getting around it. She makes Dan Quail seem eloquent. She is indeed the Tanya Harding of politics. She is the bankrupt NASCAR mom.
Comment posted November 30, 2008 @ 9:55 pm
She is a moron. There is no getting around it. She makes Dan Quail seem eloquent. She is indeed the Tanya Harding of politics. She is the bankrupt NASCAR mom.
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