DNC Convention Highlights: Governor Brian Schweitzer (MT)

Senator Max Baucus (D-MT) running ad to defend his position for health insurance reform (Video)

I have to agree with Ben Smith on this one, Baucus running this ad and not up for re-election until 2014. After watching Frontline's Obama's Deal on PBS, Baucus came out as a backstabbing shrew, allowing former health care executives, now lobbyists to write the current health care insurance law. In other words, he did not come out smelling like a rose.



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Montana Senator Max Baucus is put on BLAST, a must see video

Read it all, here

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In Case You Missed It: President Obama's town hall meeting in Montana, August 14, 2009 (Full Video and Transcript)

President Obama holds a town hall in Belgrade, Montana on health insurance reform. Before taking questions from the audience, the President discusses how health insurance reform will benefit all Americans because insurance companies will not be allowed to deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions.


Vimeo

Transcript

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Obama holding town hall meeting in Grand Junction, Colorado

And guess what? NO SCREENING, as many of the Republicans are doing for their town hall meetings, like Senator David (I love prostitutes and wearing diapers!!) Vitter (R-LA).

Mr. Obama plans to hold the town-hall meetings Tuesday in Portsmouth, N.H., Friday in Bozeman, Mont., and Saturday in Grand Junction, Colo. A White House official said participants wouldn't be screened to keep out opponents.

Mr. Obama, who has previously focused on cutting overall health spending, will now emphasize how the legislation would fix three specific problems, according to the White House official. An overhaul would end the practice of denying insurance coverage to people with a pre-existing illness; keep people from losing their coverage if they get sick; and protect Americans who face high out-of-pocket medical costs, the official said Mr. Obama would say.

The White House has been upstaged in recent days by a series of congressional town-hall meetings that turned rowdy after attendees shouted questions about the president's top domestic-policy priority. The official said cabinet members and other advisers would be dispatched to echo the president's message about fixing the three problems. read more here....

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Obama's town hall meeting on August 14, 2009, the lobbyists are busing in folks to Bozeman, Montana

Did we think President Obama would not have to endear this? Of course not, these lobbyist groups DON'T CARE.

When President Barack Obama visits Bozeman next week, the local arm of a national group opposing health care reforms before Congress will be there as well, organizing a protest rally.

The rally and tour, complete with a bus featuring a red hand and big lettering that says “Hands off my health care,” is part of a national effort organized by Americans for Prosperity, a conservative group with ties to the Republican Party.

In Montana, the effort is being coordinated by Jake Eaton, former executive director of the Montana Republican Party.

“We're organizing people against these (health care) proposals because they're bad for America,” he said Friday. “Montanans are coming out and speaking their mind and making their voices heard.”

The bus tour, formally led by an AFP project called Patients First, is blasting the proposed reforms as a “government takeover” of health care that will lead to “government bureaucrats” making decisions about people's care.

Eaton said AFP officials and some local people will be on the bus, which will stop for rallies in a dozen towns.

Obama is coming to Bozeman next Friday, and is expected to conduct a town hall-style meeting to promote health care reforms that aim to expand coverage to the millions of Americans without health insurance, reform insurance markets, reduce health care costs and gradually overhaul how health care is delivered.

Source

h/t Today with President Barack Obama

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First Family going to the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone National Park

This is coupled with President Obama's town hall meeting in Montana, next week.

The First Family is taking a vacation before their vacation.

White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said Friday the president, First Lady Michelle and the kids are heading west on Aug. 14 for a long weekend to visit Grand Canyon and Yellowstone National parks. Just days later, the First Family travels to Martha's Vineyard, off the coast of Massachusetts.

Mrs. Obama and her daughters have already made two overseas trips this summer. Gibbs talked about the westward swing - intended to highlight the national parks - at his briefing, where he offered up Obama's week ahead.

On Sunday the president flies to Guadalajara, Mexico, to attend the North American Leaders summit. Tuesday, Obama touches down in Portsmouth, N.H.- an area where he spent a lot of time in advance of the first-in-the-nation New Hampshire primary in 2008 - for a town hall on health care reform. Obama hosts a reception Aug.12 for his new Supreme Court Justice, Sonia Sotomayor.

On Friday, Aug. 14, the First Family will visit the Bozeman, Mont., area. On Aug. 15 they will travel to Yellowstone, Wyo., and Grand Junction, Colo. They will then travel to the Grand Canyon and Phoenix, Ariz., on Aug. 16, and return to Washington, D.C., on Monday, Aug. 17. The First Family's visit to the national parks occurs during a free weekend for our national parks.

Obama has been to the parks before, Gibbs said. "I know he's been to Yellowstone, because he tells a story of coming to visit his grandparents that I believe includes both stops at Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon, coming from Hawaii." read more here....

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Obama putting the pressure on Baucus: Town Hall Meeting on health care in Montana, next week

I don't have to continue to give you the deal on Max Baucus, Senator of Montana. He is a compromised man right now. He has taken huge money from the insurance and health care lobbyist groups. He is in charge of the health care bill and he is continuing to STALL.

President Barack Obama will be visiting Bozeman next Friday, where he's expected to hold a "town hall" meeting on health-care reform, sources told the Gazette State Bureau today.

The White House declined to confirm the president's plans, and state Democratic Party officials also had nothing to say about it publicly.

However, officials in Bozeman confirmed that Obama plans to visit the area next week.

Mayor Kaaren Jacobsen told the Bozeman Daily Chronicle that the president is coming to town, but had no other details.

The Gazette State Bureau learned that Obama is planning to fly into Bozeman on Aug. 14 and hold a town hall meeting, perhaps at an airport hangar at Gallatin Field Airport.

The president, accompanied by his wife, Michelle, also is expected to stay overnight in the area.

Source

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Why is it so hard to pass health care reform? The players are on the take, that is why. (Video)

The reason many Senate Democrats and Republicans don't want health care reform, don't want public option, simple, they are heavy recipients of big donor dollars from the health care industry and insurance companies. That is why.

We are asking, trusting these very people who have taken big money from an industry that is not servicing the American public fairly, to do the right thing by us. The reason they do not want to offer any public option is that it will challenge and force their cash cows, the insurance industry and health care industry to play fairly with the American public.

Money talks, bullshit walks, the DC Congress is smelling the MONEY.

As liberal protesters marched outside, Sen. Max Baucus sat down inside a San Francisco mansion for a dinner of chicken cordon bleu and a discussion of landmark health-care legislation under consideration by his Senate Finance Committee.

At the table on May 26 were about 20 donors willing to fork over $10,000 or more to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, including executives of major insurance companies, hospitals and other health-care firms.

"Most people there had an agenda; they wanted the ear of a senator, and they got it," said Aaron Roland, a San Francisco health-care activist who paid half price to attend the gathering. "Money gets you in the door. The only thing the other side can do is march around and protest outside."

Again, does anyone believe that we have honest brokers, players here? We don't. It will take the anger, force and will of the public to get health care reform passed. It will also take this very sentiment to get rid of the many compromised senators in Washington, DC.

As his committee has taken center stage in the battle over health-care reform, Chairman Baucus (D-Mont.) has emerged as a leading recipient of Senate campaign contributions from the hospitals, insurers and other medical interest groups hoping to shape the legislation to their advantage. Health-related companies and their employees gave Baucus's political committees nearly $1.5 million in 2007 and 2008, when he began holding hearings and making preparations for this year's reform debate.

Top health executives and lobbyists have continued to flock to the senator's often extravagant fundraising events in recent months. During a Senate break in late June, for example, Baucus held his 10th annual fly-fishing and golfing weekend in Big Sky, Mont., for a minimum donation of $2,500. Later this month comes "Camp Baucus," a "trip for the whole family" that adds horseback riding and hiking to the list of activities.

I have a problem with Max Baucus. The man is compromised. He has big money flapping in his face, while pressure from his own constituents continues to mount. Baucus is the problem, the obstructionist here. He is soiled, tainted and has taken millions from the very entity the American public demands a change in.

Will he play fair? Will he become an honest broker for the public? I don't trust the system. I don't trust him.

And this airing in Montana......



Source

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You know the economy is bad, when.....

an ultra rich resort for the fabulous rich and famous, goes BANKRUPT!!!!!

No shyte!!!

A Montana resort that counts Bill Gates among its members has filed for bankruptcy protection — and could be sold to a Boston firm for millions of dollars.

The exclusive Yellowstone Club would be sold for $100 million to an affiliate of CrossHarbor Capital Partners, under a deal outlined in bankruptcy court documents.

The Yellowstone Club for the ultrarich had only been partially developed when it fell more than $400 million in debt last year. The nearly 14,000-acre club near Yellowstone National Park has 340 members, including Dan Quayle and Gates.

Playground for the rich, famous and exclusive up in bankruptcy court. Ummm, does this mean the good times are not continuing to roll for them??

Source

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Obama Morning Break...Handwringing? Do Something.

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Polls and Handwringing

There is a recent poll out by USA Today/Gallup Poll.

The handwringers are out HEAVY. And if you don't know what handwringing is, read the following:

wring your hands - to show that you are very sad or anxious about a situation but do nothing to improve it

The reason for handwringing is that for registered voters it is 50-46, McCain up by 4. For likely voters, 54-44, McCain up by 10.

Obviously, folks don't understand the ebb and flow of polls. Did people think McCain would not get a bounce from his convention? Hell, he stepped on Obama the NEXT DAY AFTER HIS CONVENTION with the announcement of Palin. He did that because he had too. Picking Palin was a political move for his base, nothing else. He needed shock treatment and he got that with the Palin pick.

National polls mean NOTHING 7 weeks out of the election. Folks need to pay attention to state polls, period. National polling comes into play 10 days before an election.

For those handwringing, some of it is concern trolling by the other side, but the other is Obama supporters who can't seem to get from behind their computer and DO SOMETHING.

Did people think this would be easy? That Obama would just walk into the presidency? No, this election is about each and everyone of us, and we need to start doing out part, share instead of the continuous complaining on blogs and listservs.

We need the positive energy to win, that means getting off your duffs and working this campaign. All the tools to get started are at Barack's website. Instead of whining and complaining, do something to help this campaign win.

Lastly, here is an excellent writeup by Joe Trippi. Former strategist of John Edwards and Howard Dean. This write up states EVERYTHING of what this campaign is coming down to. The unknown.

The unknown are cell phone users, the continuous under polling of minorities, and new voters. This element was in Iowa and it is nationwide.

Read the article and then get f*cking busy to win in November.

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NBC are cowards. Matthews and Olbermann are out.

NBC kowtowed to the Republicans. Now David Gregory, who is the worst moderator on television will be the prime anchor person for any upcoming debates, election night. Can NBC see? Gregory is a biased Republican, period. NBC would be disastrous to even think Gregory can fill Tim Russert's shoes, for Meet the Press replacement. Russert is missed. Anyway, this is my opinion, everyone has one but I am done with these cable desk clerks.

Yes, David Gregory sucks.

Read it here.

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The Government takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac is serious. At least 50 percent of home mortgages are through these organizations. This is another indicator of the economy and the spiral downfall we are in. With the unemployment numbers at the highest in five years, for anyone to think the Republicans will fix this, while they have been in charge, keep whistling dixie. The Republicans are out of touch.

Read bonddad on the Fannie/Freddie situation.

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When you are handwringing, look at this video



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and...........................

Obama, McCain must set priorities on energy plans

Palin's first interview will be with Charles Gibson, ABC

ZOMG. SYFPH. by Elise

Obama needs better ads

New McCain/Palin ad, "The Original Mavericks"

and "This Week With Barack Obama", here

biden enroute and in montana



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(Late Edition) This Week With "The Democratic Nominee", Barack Obama, August 24-31, 2008

barack, joe in dublin, ohio

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michelle, jill at yankee kitchen family restaurant, boardman, ohio

Polls

Quinnipiac Colorado; PPP Virginia; Mason-Dixon Southwest States; CNN National; Suffolk Colorado; Columbus Dispatch Ohio; EPIC/MRA Michigan; Zogby National; SUSA Issues in 15 States; Rasmussen Texas; Kitchens Florida; Quinnipiac Battleground States; PPP North Carolina; Diageo/Hotline National; Brown University Rhode Island; Strategic Vision Florida; CNN/Time CO, NC, MN, PA Poll; Mason-Dixon Florida; PPIC California; Hill Research Colorado; Greg Smith Idaho; CNN National; CBS National; USA Today/Gallup National

Denver................



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Focus Group Not Good for McCain
Palin Trooper Scandal Could Become Problem
Was McCain's VP Pick Ever An AIP Member?
Palin Was a Director of Embattled Sen. Stevens's 527 Group
Michelle Obama Attends Care Packaging Event For Troops
Kennedy passes the torch to Obama


the obamas and bidens at the yankee kitchen diner

Reflection the Democratic Convention

First off, this was one of the best staged conventions that I watched on television in years. Usually, these conventions are boring, but not this year. In fact the ratings were off the chain from Monday to Thursday. It averaged 30 million viewers a night. These numbers are huge for a political event and proves that the public is getting engaged.

From the surprise speech of Ted Kennedy; to the passionate plea of Michelle Obama; to the "set the record straight" speech of Hillary Clinton; to the "Yes he can, but first you got to vote for him" speech of Bill Clinton; to the introduction of Joe Biden; and to the final climax of the best convention speech given in modern day history by Barack Obama, it was a smash.

Some other speeches I fondly remember is Governor Schweitzer of Montana, this was the one speech my husband said, "should have been the keynote address." John Kerry's peeling the onion of John McCain and George W. Bush made me wish he was like that in 2004. Senator Bob Casey stating we don't need four more years, we can't take four more months. The democrats followed the lead of Obama with the ending being a convention to be talked about for years to come.

Job well done, Democrats.


obama's acceptance speech to the democratic convention in denver, colorado

Photo Blogs

Rise of Barack Obama; Denver Photoblog #1 by casperr; -------- DENVER -------- ---( Inside Day One )--- by Al Rodgers; Obama Blog: Economic Roundtable Pictures; Obama Blog: Last Day of Convention Pictures; Ted Kennedy Speech and Pictures; Michelle Obama Speech and Pictures; Denver photoblog #2 (yes, a little late) by casperr; ---- The Audacity of ---- -------- DENVER --------- by Al Rodgers; Obama/Biden: From the Mountaintop to the Valley - Pics! by dharmafarmer; Hillary Clinton Speech and Pictures; Joe Biden Speech and Pictures; Barack Obama's Speech and Pictures; Obama/Biden in Dublin, OH by jmknapp; Denver photoblog #3 -- INVESCO by casperr

McCain raises $47 million in August
Palin news: Obama blasts McCain camp
Obama and Biden's Chemistry Test
Biden can deliver what Dems need: votes and wisdom
For disciplined Obama, character is destiny
Pelosi sees Dem's women leaders as key to Obama win


joe biden's acceptance speech at the democratic convention

Shoutouts, Stuff You Should Read....

Obama: 'Back Off' by turneresq; Abramoff, McCain, Palin, Corruption & the GOP... by dengre; Barack Obama In America's Story - Part 1 by maureen; John McCain: Ready to Vet on Day Three by turneresq; The Last Gasp of Identity Politics by The Bagof Health and Politics; John McCain - A Wholly Owned Subsidiary of the Religious Right by rikyrah; The Hurricane Katrina Hall of Shame by Bill in Portland Maine; ZOMG: Juno in Juneau by Clem Guttata; Stevens & Palin: "Singing from the Same Sheet of Music" by Dean Barker; Didn’t want to ‘ go there’, but we must. John McCain’s AGE by rikyrah; Worse Than Quayle by Trapper John; John McCain : No Choice for Women by kath25; Pimp Daddy McCain embraces "Daddy Yankee" by Deoliver47; Noun, Verb, POW; Musings Over Morning Coffee by DemFromCT; Marching Orders on Palin. by RenaRF; ABC News Confirms That McCain's VP Pick Was AIP Member georgia10

McCain Tries to Rile Up Clinton Voters Against Obama
New goal, new style of speech for Obama
Obama Takes the Fight to McCain
How Obama Would Handle Putin
Obama & Co. must take high road on Palin
Top black donors see Obama's rise as their own
McCain’s ‘Hail Sarah’ Pass

Audio/Video

Barack Obama and Joe Biden visit Biodiesel Plant; Ed Rendell Speech; Mark Warner Speech; Spike Lee Comments; John Kerry Speech; Bill Clinton Speech; John Lewis' comments on Obama's Nomination; Michelle Obama's One-on-one with Brian Williams; Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute; will.i.am and john legend perform "Yes We Can"; Al Gore Speech; Bill Richardson Speech; Obama, Biden on 60 Minutes

icebergslim's last word: our team is the best team

After the past three days and all that drama? Compare our team to their team.

God Bless, Joe Biden.

Nuff said.

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Weekly Slideshow..................


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well, barack is our official nominee and he has joe by his side. after all this weekend drama, i told my mother, "i am glad joe biden is barack's vp." can you just imagine after all this crap, otherwise? at any rate, we have a lot of work to do. continue to donate to the campaign, and you can tip my obama jar for that. continue to volunteer, phone bank, all information below. the general election has commenced, as always keep your powder dry and remember to focus on obama and not the drama.....................

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Tip the Obama Jar, Here

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Get Involved Here
For Inspiration: Yes.We.Can!!!

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icebergslim1047 (at) gmail (dot) com
cross-posted @ Daily Kos

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Obama Late Morning Break...."No Way, No How, No McCain"

hillary in denver

Hillary Photos and Full Video of Speech

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She hit it out of the park

Hillary Clinton did what she needed to do and more.

From her speech there were several hits that I KNOW the Obama Campaign will use, including the title of this post.

But it was her delivery and hitting the points of why you must vote Democratic.

One thing I noticed while watching some of Morning Joe this morning, the Republicans are livid. Some indicating that she did not do what she needed to do, but only to cover her "you know what" to run in 2012.

I agree to some points. Hillary had to do what she had to do. I know that she had to clear the air, especially with McCain running those shameful ads, using her as their ploy with her words. But, Hillary nailed this, delivered and we will see what happens next.

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McCain's slips, and Reagan's

With Democrats on the precipice of raising the age issue against John McCain, Sen. Patrick Leahy of Vermont seemed to cross the line completely, then immediately backtrack, my colleague Ken Vogel reports.

Leahy told Vogel yesterday the media has given McCain a free pass on flubs including mixing up Middle East geography, Shiite and Sunni Muslims, and referring to Russia's relationship Czechoslovakia — a country that hasn't existed for 15 years.

"It was the same way with Ronald Reagan in the last few years he was president," Leahy said, referring to the belief that Reagan experienced early signs of Alzheimer's disease late in his presidency.

The press "let Ronald Regan get away with" slips, Leahy said, though he denied he was suggesting that McCain was experiencing mental decline.

"No, I'm just saying he gets a free ride," Leahy said.

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obama at a convention watch party in billings, montana

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Governor Brian Schwitzer

Mark Warner was the "keynote speaker" but it should have been Brian Schwitzer. He.lit.it.up.


part one


part two

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Biden is wrench in McCain's VP choice

Democrat Barack Obama’s selection of Joe Biden as a running mate is complicating Republican John McCain’s analysis of his prospective vice presidential contenders.

Biden will make his formal debut Wednesday with a primetime address. McCain is expected to announce his pick after Obama accepts his nomination here on Thursday.

Some insiders are pressing McCain to make a strategic selection, one that beefs up his economic strength, enhances his chance to grab a state or amps up the partisan firepower.

“McCain knows Biden well. He knows how good he is as a knife fighter. He’ll take McCain apart,” said one Republican operative.

But a review of the much-rumored McCain shortlist clearly exposes the weaknesses each person on it might bring if matched up against the six-term senator from Delaware.

• The star of former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney seemed to be rising this summer in tandem with voters’ increasing anxiety about the economy.
See Also

But a McCain gaffe over how many homes he owns — he told Politico he didn’t know the exact number — would take on new life if multimillionaire Romney became his running mate.

Democrats already have calculated that the two men own a dozen homes between them, valued at a total of about $35 million. continue

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and..........................

Mark Warner's keynote speech, here........................................

Spike Lee witnessing history.......................................

Governor Ed Rendell rips into McCain........................................

Filmmakers ask anti-Obama ad maker to 'cease and desist'.........................

Bill Clinton and Joe Biden are up next to the podium this evening...........

Another attack ad by McCain..........sigh...............................

and women behind Joe Biden



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Evening Wrap Up...and the RNC dropping ads this weekend against Obama...

obama in colorado springs, colorado

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Well, the RNC is showing its armpits. Yes, expect them to stink up the joint for the 4th of July weekend, by going negative on Barack Obama.

If anyone does not understand why Obama has forgone public financing, this is the reason.

You do not want your opponent to have the opportunity to define you, period. Obama has exercised his money roll by putting up ads in 18 states across this country, meaning almost half of the country.

A good move. Why? Because many don't know Barack Obama and many are not even engaged in this campaign, and won't be until after Labor Day. In the meantime, you don't want the GOP defining you and define him they will try.

What is coming is the creation of a facade that Obama is scary, unfit, a boogey man, untested, and basically short of calling him a "black-so-and-so".

While many Dems are angry about Obama's run to the middle, remember this, he is our candidate and the funding of this campaign must not stop.

The ads will run in Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Ohio, and if you are not aware this is an expenditure or arm of the RNC, in other words a 527. Like that matters?

Lastly, my thought on running to the middle, I am still processing this. I don't like Obama's flip on FISA, my husband don't like Obama's flip on the gun issue, I am not crazy about his change on NAFTA, and I still have not embraced his religious policy. In stating this, Barack Obama is a politician, always has been. It has been the netroots who have put him on a pedestal and now are going through a shock withdrawal. Politicians, no matter who they are or what party, in the end want to win. So, watch John McCain change from "I am not running a negative campaign" to "I will say anything to destroy, discredit Barack Obama to win". Folks, it is coming.

UPDATE: McCain Campaign buying Ad Time in Virginia. Ummm, can we say, "worried".

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obama's speech in colorado springs, call to service

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This diary should shut the McCain Campaign up about who is really an elistist? Expect that word to vanish from the campaign and its surrogates mouths. Thanks, Cindy!!!

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Obama not running as movement

Barack Obama is a different kind of Democrat. He is one who actually intends to win.

I don’t know if he will or not, but I do know that he has made a key decision: He has decided to run as a candidate for president and not as the leader of a movement.

Movement candidates often fail when the demands of the movement come in conflict with the demands of politics.

The most recent example was Howard Dean’s (short-lived) campaign for president in 2004.

Dean was supposed to be leading a movement designed to “empower” citizens who felt locked out of the process. His slogan, and the title of one of his books, was “You Have the Power.”

Some in Dean’s own campaign were worried, however, that he was too conventional a politician for the task. Dean had been a six-term governor and former chairman of the Democratic Governors Association (and would go on to become chairman of the Democratic National Committee). The fights within the campaign were endless, and the “empowerment” side won, with Dean running a TV ad right before the Iowa caucuses featuring the candidate facing the camera and saying, “This election is about power. About who runs the country and who owns it.”

The empowerment movement loved the ad, but the Democratic voters of Iowa hated it and Dean came in a bad third, effectively ending his campaign. continue

Yes, this is why many are going through shock withdrawal. Obama is a politician.

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obama's speech on his faith based proposal

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If there is one common thread about John McCain it is his notorious temper.

Yes, he has a big one.

So right now he is pissed that anyone would have the utter gall or nerve to question his military record.

McCain is demanding that Obama terminate Wes Clark:

"I think it’s up to Sen. Obama now not only to repudiate him but to cut him loose," McCain said.

Obama is not going there. Why should he? We played this game with Hillary since January, why would Obama cow-tow down to McCain?

McCain's service record is fair game. Why? Because he is running on being a POW, War Hero, that gives him gravitas to having experience with national security. Only Clark, along with Webb cut him down. They respected his service to the country, but that was about it. Again, McCain has as much executive experience on national security as Barack Obama and that is none.

Back to that temper, McCain almost lost it in front of the press corp:

McCain became visibly angry when I asked him to explain how his Vietnam experience prepared him for the Presidency.

"Please," he said, recoiling back in his seat in distaste at the very question.

McCain allies Sen. Lindsey Graham stepped in to rescue him. Graham expressed admiration for McCain’s stance on the treatment of detainees in US custody.

"That to me is a classic example of how his military experience helped him shape public policy in a way no other senator could have done,’’ Graham said.

Lastly, there is a diary on Daily Kos by Geekesque, which is appropriately titled: Unfit for duty: McCain physically assaulted foreign official in 1987

Yes, it is all true and the story was put out by McCain's own Republican colleague, Mississippi Republican Senator Thad Cochran. Ain't love grand!!!

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Ball of Confusion

Again, John McCain can not remember that he stated that he is not knowledgeable on the economy. Of course, he shoveled his typical "you know what" on GMA:



but here, is the actual McCain that said he did not understand the economy:



h/t SusanG

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The Washington Post is taking heat on a veiled, thin piece about the Obamas home loan. It attempts to try to weave Countrywide Financial in this, but it was not Countrywide that secured the loan.

Also, the piece hypes up the Obamas discount on the interest rate of 5.625 percent on a 30 yr fixed rate.

Read the piece, it is totally bogus. But it was poblano/nate over at 538 that busted the article down as follows:

So Obama's rate was 30 basis points better than the average. However, the amount of the loan and the nature of the property are not the only factors that determine a mortgage rate. Another major consideration is the creditworthiness of the borrower. According to current rate quotes from myFICO.com, a borrower with very good credit can expect a mortgage rate about 30 basis points better than someone with pretty good credit, and a borrower with excellent credit can expect about a 50 basis point discount.

Unless the Washington Post has access to Obama's FICO score -- and unless it has rented an apartment to him, it probably doesn't -- it is missing a pretty important piece of information on what Obama's mortgage rate ought to have been. What was Obama's FICO score? I don't know, but considering that...
* Obama had just gotten a $2.27 million book deal from Random House -- about $1 million more than the value of the mortgage.

* The Obamas each had exceptionally secure jobs that paid them a combined annual salary of about $500,000 per year.

* The Obamas had just sold their condo, on which they had realized a $137,500 profit.

* The Obamas were prominent public figures whose political futures depended in part on maintaining a reputation for responsibility and trustworthiness.

* The Obamas are known to be relatively thrifty and have no credit card debt but substantial savings.

...I would think that the Obamas were exceptionally creditworthy. So indeed, Obama received a "discount" -- the same discount that any borrower in his position would have received.

The Washington Post need to get it together. Unless they have PROOF that the Obamas got preferential treatment or an "on the low DEAL", the piece reeks of utter bullshit.

UPDATE: CNN DEBUNKS THE WASHINGTON POST STORY



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Dan Qualye for Obama!!! Well, sorta...

"I have a lot of grudging respect for what he did because he beat the Clintons, something we couldn't do in 1992. The Clintons were very convincing in the campaign they ran. So I thought she would be the candidate,” said Quayle, who lost his bid for a second vice presidential term to the Democratic ticket of Bill Clinton and Al Gore in 1992.

"I think she made obviously some very tactical mistakes. One, underestimating Obama. And, two, the whole inevitability that `I am entitled to the nomination' ended up hurting her quite dramatically,” he said while acknowledging that "I don't think anyone saw, including myself, the Barack Obama movement."

As a Republican who lost to a Democratic ticket touting “change,” Quayle had some advice for this year’s presumptive GOP nominee: lay out a “clear vision” of what he’ll do when he reaches the White House.

"When 80 percent of the people think we are on the wrong track, you need to do that. It needs to be strategic,” said Quayle. “That's not been done yet. They may be waiting for the convention, but that needs to be done."

Read it all, here.

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Bookmark this diary, for any GOP talking points

I ran across this laundry list of the GOP. Seriously, you will have to sit back and read it all. Also, don't be surprised to see one of your favorite GOP congresscritter on this list.

Swing State Project

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The McCain Campaign is shaking itself up. Demoting some, adding some, bringing some from the Bush White House, all in defeating Barack Obama.

Senator John McCain’s presidential campaign has gone through its second shake-up in a year as Mr. McCain, responding to Republican concerns that his candidacy was faltering, put Steve Schmidt in charge of day-to-day operations and abandoned an effort to have the campaign run by 11 regional managers, the senator’s aides said Wednesday.

...The shift was approved by Mr. McCain after several aides, including Mr. Schmidt, warned him about 10 days ago that he was in danger of losing the presidential election unless he revamped his campaign operation, according to two officials close to the campaign. continue

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Watch this story and see how it unfolds

Three military contractors, along with Ingrid Betancourt were released in Columbia today by Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC.

Why pay attention? Who is in Columbia right now? McCain. Will the freed hostages come back home with McCain? I would bet my paycheck on it. Why does this matter? Photo-op time for McCain, looking presidential. Why would McCain do this? Obama is about to go on a European tour and expect massive crowds, with blow-by-blow coverage. Oh, by the way, McCain has been to Europe and guess what? It was a snooze....

and finally the Obama Family will be in Butte, Montana for the 4th of July, tickets are available here.

So how was your day??

This Week With Barack Obama

Hillary Clinton Will NOT Concede Tonight..... (UPDATED)....AP is Reporting Obama Clinches Democratic Nomination

WASHINGTON - Hillary Rodham Clinton will concede Tuesday night that Barack Obama has the delegates to secure the Democratic nomination, campaign officials said, effectively ending her bid to be the nation's first female president.

The former first lady will stop short of formally suspending or ending her race in her speech in New York City. She will pledge to continue to speak out on issues like health care. But for all intents and purposes, the two senior officials said, the campaign is over.

Most campaign staff will be let go and will be paid through June 15, said the officials who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to divulge her plans.

source

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Ending a Nominating Contest and Unifying a Party.

Yes, this is the most important part folks. We must be together for the fight in the fall.

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Keep track of the endorsements here.

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[UPDATED]

OH BROTHER, REMEMBER THE CLINTONS AND PARSING OF WORDS

Hillary Rodham Clinton will concede Tuesday night that Barack Obama has the delegates to secure the Democratic nomination, campaign officials said, effectively ending her bid to be the nation's first female president.

The former first lady will stop short of formally suspending or ending her race in her speech in New York City. She will pledge to continue to speak out on issues like health care. But for all intents and purposes, the two senior officials said, the campaign is over.

Most campaign staff will be let go and will be paid through June 15, said the officials who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to divulge her plans.

The advisers said Clinton has made a strategic decision to not formally end her campaign, giving her leverage to negotiate with Obama on various matters including a possible vice presidential nomination for her. She also wants to press him on issues he should focus on in the fall, such as health care.

Universal health care, Clinton's signature issue as first lady in the 1990s, was a point of dispute between Obama and the New York senator during their epic nomination fight.

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This is a Damn Roller Coaster

Hillary Rodham Clinton is expected to concede Tuesday night that Barack Obama has the delegates to secure the Democratic nomination, campaign officials told the Associated Press, but Clinton's campaign manager denied the report.

The former first lady will stop short of formally suspending or ending her race in her speech in New York City, said the officials who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity, because they were not authorized to divulge her plans.

However Terry McAuliffe, Clinton's campaign chairman, told CNN that AP is "100% reporting incorrectly."

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Hillary is playing hardball here. First off, she wants all the votes counted. Second, she is appealing the Michigan Delegate Decision. Third, she will continue to court superdelegates that she is the strongest candidate.

Watch Barack Obama, roll his delegates out today. Watch Barack Obama give a speech that he is the Presumptive Nominee, tonight.

Here we go again, with Clinton, waiting for something to happen, hanging around in the rafters.....sigh.....

Folks, some people don't know when to leave the DAMN STAGE, at this point she will eventually be shoved off.

REALITY IS A BITCH.

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and kos' take on Hillary's Concede or not to Concede....

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Read, With Grace and Dignity???

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Superdelegates surge to Obama

A tsunami of superdelegates is poised to rush to Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) over the next 12 hours, giving him a mathematical lock on his party’s presidential nomination.

The superdelegate surge is likely to swamp a few holdouts within the camp of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-N.Y.) who have been resisting a prompt concession.

Aides say Clinton does not plan to concede or bid supporters farewell when she speaks in New York tonight, but instead will salute her supporters and argue for the strength of her candidacy.

But her clout is ebbing by the hour. At 6:56 a.m. Eastern time, the Obama campaign announced the first of the day’s slew of endorsements by superdelegates – the Democratic Party officials who have a vote on the nominee and will determine who it is, since neither Obama nor Clinton have won enough delegates in primaries and caucuses to put them over the top.

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OK, MONTANA ENTOURAGE READY TO JUMP OFF...

The three highest ranking Democrats in Montana plan to wade into the Democratic presidential race as soon as the state's primary is decided tonight, according to a source familiar with the decision.

Gov. Brian Schweitzer as well as Sens. Max Baucus and Jon Tester have agreed to all endorse the winner of Montana's primary -- almost certain to be Sen. Barack Obama (Ill.) -- immediately upon the contest being called. The trio will be joined in the endorsement by state party chairman Dennis McDonald and vice chairman Margaret Campbell.

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Final Predictions for South Dakota and Montana

And some statewide polls, from kos.

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[UPDATE]

AP Reports: Obama clinches Democratic nomination

Barack Obama has effectively clinched the Democratic presidential nomination, based on an Associated Press tally of convention delegates.

The tally put Obama over the top Tuesday, ahead of the results from the day's final primaries in Montana and South Dakota. The Illinois senator becomes the first black candidate ever to lead his party into a fall campaign for the White House. Obama outlasted former first lady Hillary Rodham Clinton in a historic contest and now faces Republican Sen. John McCain of Arizona for the presidency. AP Source

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Per MSNBC and AP, Former President Jimmy Carter, to Endorse Obama

Former President Carter says he'll endorse Democrat Barack Obama after the polls close on the final primaries.

Carter told The Associated Press on Tuesday: "The fact is the Obama people already know they have my vote when the polls close tonight." Carter spoke to the AP after addressing the Georgia World Congress Center.

Carter, a superdelegate, has remained officially neutral in the race but has offered high praise to Obama. Carter has noted that his children, grandchildren and their spouses back the Illinois senator.

Folks, the supers are shutting this down. NO MORE THREATS OF DENVER.

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IN THE END, YES WE CAN...

Train is MOVING......

Official, Congressman James Clyburn (D-SD) is endorsing Barack Obama.

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June 6, 2006, all 28 Democratic Governors are going to Chicago to meet with Barack Obama for general election strategy. Per MSNBC, Hardball.

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Movement by 34 congresspersons to endorse Barack Obama by the end of results coming in from SD and MT. Per MSNBC, Hardball.

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Clinton Summons Top Donors, Supporters For Major Tuesday Speech.

Obama and Clinton spoke Sunday night and agreed that their staffs should begin negotiations over post-primary activities, according to reliable sources. In addition to seeking Obama's help in raising money to pay off some $20 million-plus in debts, Clinton is known to want Obama to assist black officials who endorsed her and who are now taking constituent heat, including, in some cases, primary challenges from pro-Obama politicians.

"This has never happened before," one donor said, referring to the personalized request by email to attend the event in New York Tuesday night.

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Clinton Campaign Staffers Urged to Turn in Expense Sheets.

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Clinton Coming to Terms it is Over...

Obama, confident of victory, looked ahead to the general election by campaigning in Michigan, a likely battleground state in the fall campaign.

He said that when he called Clinton on Sunday to congratulate her on her Puerto Rico primary victory, he broached the topic of a meeting.

"The sooner we can bring the party together, the sooner we can focus on John McCain and taking back the White House," he said.

Obama stopped short of a flat prediction that he would be able to claim victory Tuesday night when the delegates were allocated after the day's primaries. But he said, "It is my sense that between Tuesday and Wednesday we have a good chance of getting that number of delegates" needed for victory.

Obama arranged a Tuesday night speech in Minnesota, at the site of the Republican National Convention that will nominate Arizona Sen. McCain in September.

Democratic Party leaders watched from the sidelines, eager for a quick end to a race that drew record millions to voting booths but also exposed racial and other divisions.

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Uncommitted Senators coming onboard for Obama by as early tomorrow or by Wednesday, the latest.

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Advance Clinton Staffers being recalled to NYC:

The advance staffers — most of them now in Puerto Rico, South Dakota, and Montana — are being given the options of going to New York for a final day Tuesday, or going home, the aides said. The move is a sign that the campaign is beginning to shed — at least — some of its staff. The advance staff is responsible for arranging the candidate's events around the country.

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Bill Hints it is over:



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And Team Clinton at her mansion in NY tonight:

Her angry defenders were chanting "Denver!" on Saturday, but Hillary Rodham Clinton is headed to Chappaqua late tonight for a somber and potentially momentous homecoming.

Clinton will huddle with advisers and husband Bill Clinton at her mansion tomorrow, according to people familiar with her plans. She will monitor results from the final 2008 primaries in South Dakota and Montana and decide whether, how and when she will end her campaign as Barack Obama nears the nomination threshold.

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Hillary want Obama to help with her debt, or bring back the 11.5M Clinton money back to Clinton Coffers....

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Well, the movement is real. My take is this, I think many from the DNC and uncommitted superdelegtes watched Saturday's meeting and heard the veil threat from Harold Ickes on behalf of Hillary Clinton.

That moved them to end this and no fighting in Denver. Hillary ,if reported, is doing the right thing. Time for her to take some time off and campaign in EARNEST for Barack Obama through the General Election.

This Week With Barack Obama, May 25-31, 2008

cross-posted @ Daily Kos



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obama in las vegas, nv addressing the housing crisis

Campaign Appearances

June 3, 2008 - Rally with Barack and Michelle Obama, St. Paul, MN

Clinton faces new pressure on 2 fronts
Biden's strength in foreign policy recruited by Obama
How McCain's Katrina Record Undermines Criticism Of Obama On Iraq
In An Iraq-Related Hole, McCain Keeps On Digging
The Obama-McCain age gap that matters
Obama poised for nomination despite Clinton victory in Puerto Rico


obama at mapleton expeditionary school of the arts in thornton, co

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Obama Used Party Rules to Foil Clinton
Barack Obama is Master of the New Facebook Politics
After Kennedy comment, many seem over the Hill
Obama's Lobbyist Connections
Native American vote crucial to Obama, Clinton
DNC Is Not Duplicating the Fundraising Success of Party's Candidates


obama with former governor roy romer in thornton, co

Photo Blogs

Obama's Emotional Tribute to Teddy - before 25,000 by Al Rodgers; Eye Candy? by Al Rodgers; A day in the motorcade of Barack Obama by Kevin Florida; Obama in Florida! (with lots o' pics, updated x2) by by mtundu; Global Food Disparity: A Photo Diary by Asinus Asinum Fricat; Obama Opens Up a Can of "WHOOOOP-ASS" - DECKS McSame by Al Rodgers; Obama's Tuesday Victory: Live from the RNC Convention Site! by kubla000; Best. Picture. Evar. by Ambboogie; From the Obama Blog: Obama in Rapid City, SD; I just left the RBC meeting by Sean Robertson

obama in great falls, montana

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Bookmark this new site: Obama Videos
Next Steps: Framing the Kennedy Legacy by psericks
Pelosi won't allow convention fight by Terre
Obama is back! by Populista
ACTION: Searching for John McCain by Chris Bowers
Michelle Obama in Phoenix: "Fear Is a Useless Emotion" by dawnt
WaPo reporter: Superdelegates no longer paying attention to Hillary by Joe Beese
Speaker Nancy Pelosi, “..a luxury I can’t afford." by icebergslim








is it true about obama?

Obama and Trinity United Church of Christ.

I know it was difficult for Barack, Michelle, Melia and Sasha Obama to leave a church that has been a cornerstone of their life. It was. But leave the church, eventually, they had to.

What happened in this campaign is that white America is not/was not knowledgeable of Black Churches in the United States of America. Many of these churches are very progressive, speak to social issues, and address the uplifting of many Black Americans in this country. The continuous loop of Wright’s statements and of Fox News using Father Pfleger’s video of his statements about Hillary Clinton, did not nurture the Obamas to remain with Trinity United Church of Christ. I believe it just hastened their path to the door.

Make no mistake; this church has done incredible outreach in the Black Community for jobs, Aids, spiritual development, etc. This is known. But we are in the realm of politics and Barack Obama is a bi-racial man who is trying to be defined by some as a Black Radical Nutcase by the far right, when this is not so.

In the end, the Obama Family had no choice but to leave Trinity United Church of Christ.

Always remember that Barack Obama is running to be President of the United States of America, to represent all of us, not some of us. That is the beauty of who he truly is, because it will be us who put him there.


obama in aberdeen, sd @ press conference about tucc resignation and the dnc rbl decision

shoutouts:

Why this will not go to denver by aaronlev14; Hillary's Supporters at the Meeting are a Disgrace by Delaware Dem; Larry Johnson has to tell NQ inmates to stop posting death threats against Obama by Bob Johnson; Clinton Supporters vs. Clinton "Supporters" by Angry Mouse; McCainocrats: Eager to Tell Me You Told Me So? by Meteor Blades; What for? {Devastating News from Mia Farrow} by jimstaro; Milkshakes Are Harder To Come By: Why Oil Costs Over $120 Per Barrel by baratunde; "How much is the life of a farm worker worth? Is it less than the life of any other human being?" by TomP; Shake Off That Pixie Dust! by Granny Doc; Japan Welcomes African Leaders by Maureen; My Math Beats Up Clinton Math. by RenaRF; Health insurers to American women: get sterilized or pay more by nyceve

Obama's Coattails May Drive Record Black Turnout in House Races
Former Bush donors now giving to Obama's campaign
Bill Clinton's enemies list
Hillary Clinton to be offered dignified exit
McCain, Obama videos campaign for attention on YouTube


obama at mt. rushmore in south dakota

Endorsements

Nevada superdelegate Yvonne Gates Backs Obama; Wyoming Democratic Party Vice Chair Nancy Drummond Endorses Obama; Edward Lewis, Chairman of Essence and Latina magazines Endorses Obama; Colorado Democratic Party Chair and superdelegate Pat Waak Backs Obama; Meredith Wood Smith, Chairwoman of the Democratic Party of Oregon Endorses Obama; Sen. Ben Pangelinan pledges support to Obama; Wayne Kinney, DNC Backs Obama; Gail Rasmussen, DNC For Obama; Congressman Alan B. Mollohan (D-WV) Endorses Obama; Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie and his wife and DNC member Betty Richie Backs Obama; Benicio del Toro Backs Obama; Gwethalyn Phillips of ME, an add-on for Obama

Racism, Security Threats Issues for Obama
Political map could be redrawn on election day
Barack Obama dominates in poll of college students
Obama competitive against McCain with key voters
New swing states pop up in '08
Obama’s Self-Assurance Over Nomination



obama in north las vegas, nv talking housing crisis

icebergslim’s last word: what happened

What Happened is the new book by Scott McClellan, former press secretary of the Bush Administration.

Well, I have read a lot of these Bush Administration books and critiques of the Iraq War like, State of Denial, Fiasco, The Shock Doctrine, etc. For me, Scott McClellan was believable and striking in his assessment of the failed Bush Administration.

Why?

Scott McClellan worked under the then, Governor George W. Bush, in Texas. He was one of the few brought to Washington, DC by now, President George W. Bush and was considered an insider. His criticism of the failed Bush Administration substantiates all the other books written by authors critiquing and criticizing this current administration.

Another caveat, we have as yet to see any current or former member of the Bush Administration to state the facts of McClellan’s book is an outright lie. And don’t expect it to be so, because this book is true. Is it a “johnny-come-lately” moment? Yes, absolutely, but I view it like this, put it out there NOW while we are gearing up for the general election mode to use this as fodder against the Republicans than after November, when we already know this administration is on the bullshit tip.

What else happened? The fiasco and joke of Michigan and Florida who jumped the shark of the primaries was finally settled by the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee Meeting. It was the longest meeting I have ever had the pleasure of watching. It was one firecracker after another, along with rude and obnoxious Clinton Supporters, who may I add, do not represent the majority. This was a real popcorn delight and clocking in at around 8 hours of talking and more than two hours of off camera bartering. In the end, Florida and Michigan will be seated at ½ strength, period. And personally, they are lucky to have that. Although I am more sympathetic to Florida’s plight with a Republican run state legislation, than Michigan who moved their primary up due to that Governor’s sheer political alliance with the Clintons.

What else happened? The new number to cinch is 2118. Expect Barack to close this out on Tuesday.

Overall, this primary season is a wrap. After Tuesday, Barack Obama will be the Democratic Nominee, no more maybe, is he, coulda, woulda, shoulda, but it will be the fact.


obama at pancake breakfast for veterans and families in sioux falls, sd

Audio/Video

Video: Obama, Begich at Alaska Democratic Convention; Smokey says, "Yes We Can!"; NPR: Media Savage Clinton over RFK Remark; NPR: Democrats Resolve the Delegate Count; Obama in Puerto Rico; Governor Bill Richardson (D-NM) introduces Obama on Memorial Day; Obama addressing veterans in NM; DCCC's Van Hollen Assesses the Obama Effect; Obama Campaign in Transition; Obama's Speech in Thornton, Colorado; Obama Spanish Language Music Video; Obama in Rapid City, SD; Obama in Aberdeen, SD; Obama in Great Falls, MT; Obama addressing Veterans in Sioux Falls, SD

Democrats want quick end to battle
The voice of Obama on gender
Obama in 'excellent health,' his doctor says
The RBC: Dean Pleads for Party Unity
IS IT BARACK OBAMA'S PARTY NOW?
California Democrats To Clinton: We Prefer Obama
McCain and Obama spar over Iraq
On the Court and on the Trail, One Aide Looms Over Obama




well, it has been one of those weeks!! finally got the michigan/florida snafu put in perspective, as we watched our fellow democrats at times acting very undemocratic. sigh. anyway it is full steam ahead. we have a lot of work to do to bring us together as one. remember, as the rules and bylaws meeting, remember to follow the obama campaign lead. after yesterday, many were very happy we did. oh, h/t for the above slide show (for inspiration) to THE photo blogger around, al rodgers. folks, as always remember to keep your heads up and focus on obama and not the drama....

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Donate Here
Get Involved Here
For Inspiration: Yes.We.Can!!!

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icebergslim1047 (at) gmail (dot) com
This Week With Barack Obama

Nightly Wind Down.....

From my man Al G @ The Field, looks like the Florida Democratic Chair, Former US Rep. Karen Thurman (D-Florida) sent out an email and looks like Florida is ready to move forward in the delegate process and unite the party.

I sincerely hope that this meeting brings closure to a dispute that has gone on for way too long…

It’s time to unite and move full speed ahead toward November to elect a Democratic President.

Time to move to GE mode, for sure.

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Dan Abrams on Obama's Pastor Problem. My take, no problem. No one is talking about this after this weekend.



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Obama going right into the Lion's Den. He will be in St. Paul, MN on Tuesday night at the Xcel Energy Center, the same site of the Republican National Convention in September.

Analysts expect Obama to potentially clinch the nomination by Tuesday night. Others point to aggressive nature of Obama kicking off the Presidential campaign at the site of September's Republican National Convention.

Yes, the primary season is FINALLY OVER, and Obama stands the victor.

It is time to move onto McCain and the Republicans. They have a lot of dirty laundry to throw out there. And start, here.

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If you want to know how the toll of this long primary season has been, read Donna Brazile. Girlfriend is DEFINATELY ready for this to be over!!!

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Mia Farrow lost her nephew in Iraq. And her simple question is "What For?"

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Obama takes a swipe at McCain in Great Falls, MT



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Michelle Obama Talks about the "A" Word. And that is why Hillary Clinton should be disqualified for the VP spot.

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Want more Iraq Talk? Hunter over at Daily Kos has plenty.

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and if you missed Maureen's "A Team" Talk about Obama, take a read here.....night everyone...