The fight over the South Dakota Abortion Ban Continues.... I just saw the latest TV ad from the VOTE NO side and I think it's pretty powerful. Check it out.
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Thursday, October 23, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
As long as we're talking about Initiated Measure 11
By Mark:
As long as Matt just did a post on Initiated Measure 11, I thought I would ad this one.
The Campaign for Healthy Families has another ad up.
Check it out.
As long as Matt just did a post on Initiated Measure 11, I thought I would ad this one.
The Campaign for Healthy Families has another ad up.
Check it out.
I Think This Settles It!
By Matt:
For the past two weeks or so, there has been quite a bit of media attention on Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome.
In case you've been living in a cave, it's come to light surrounding Initiated Measure 11 and there has been quite a lot of back and forth over whether or not a procedure like this would be allowed under Initiated Measure 11. Vote No says that families would not be able to terminate pregnancies in cases of fatal fetal anomolies. Vote Yes has first said that Tiffany Campbell didn't need to terminiate (even though they know nothing about her medical case) and then they said it would be allowed for because her health was at risk (even though she's said it wasn't.) But, now, we have a very in-depth news piece from KARE 11 which I think says it all.
Thank you Ms. Leslee Unruh for finally setting the record straight. Turns out, Vote NO was right all along. The Campbell's procedure would be ban.
Check it out for yourself.
For the past two weeks or so, there has been quite a bit of media attention on Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome.
In case you've been living in a cave, it's come to light surrounding Initiated Measure 11 and there has been quite a lot of back and forth over whether or not a procedure like this would be allowed under Initiated Measure 11. Vote No says that families would not be able to terminate pregnancies in cases of fatal fetal anomolies. Vote Yes has first said that Tiffany Campbell didn't need to terminiate (even though they know nothing about her medical case) and then they said it would be allowed for because her health was at risk (even though she's said it wasn't.) But, now, we have a very in-depth news piece from KARE 11 which I think says it all.
Thank you Ms. Leslee Unruh for finally setting the record straight. Turns out, Vote NO was right all along. The Campbell's procedure would be ban.
Check it out for yourself.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
McCain Aint Got a Friend in Me
By Mark:
I was watching the debate last night and I don’t know if this happened to anyone else but John McCain drove me nuts. Anyone else?
I couldn’t take him calling me his friend one more time. Did we all notice this? All night long, my friend this, my friends that. I don’t know about you, but I’ve never met John McCain, so I can’t really say I’d even accept him as a friend on Facebook. I’m guessing the vast majority of you reading this blog haven’t met John McCain either and wouldn’t consider him your friend.
That’s not the only reason I don’t consider John McCain my friend like he apparently thinks I am. My friends would never answer a question about the economic crisis by saying “New-energy”.
Yes Senator McCain, new-energy is at the root of our problems right now, uh huh. Thanks for the insight friend.
I was watching the debate last night and I don’t know if this happened to anyone else but John McCain drove me nuts. Anyone else?
I couldn’t take him calling me his friend one more time. Did we all notice this? All night long, my friend this, my friends that. I don’t know about you, but I’ve never met John McCain, so I can’t really say I’d even accept him as a friend on Facebook. I’m guessing the vast majority of you reading this blog haven’t met John McCain either and wouldn’t consider him your friend.
That’s not the only reason I don’t consider John McCain my friend like he apparently thinks I am. My friends would never answer a question about the economic crisis by saying “New-energy”.
Yes Senator McCain, new-energy is at the root of our problems right now, uh huh. Thanks for the insight friend.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
VP Candidates Set For Debate
By Mark:
It’s finally time for vice presidential candidates Joe Biden and Sarah Palen to take the stage for their debate Thursday night. Funny how far we’ve come since the conventions.
At convention time, it seemed as though there was almost more excitement for this debate than the ones between the real candidates Barack Obama and John McCain. Time has past and the hype has subsided as I predicted.
Now, the first debate between McCain and Obama lacked the excitement and notable sound bytes that everyone was hoping for, but don’t expect that Thursday night.
Biden has already made a name once again for going off script and treading a very thin line on the campaign trail. He is certain to give us poster board material - he proved that during the democratic primary debates.
Palin on the other hand has more pressure Thursday. She has one last night essentially to prove that she is qualified to hold a position that would put her one heartbeat away from being the most powerful leader in the world. She has a lot to prove in this debate. Biden has a lengthy career in politics in being a leader and decision maker which gives him the lead going in.
Palin needs to hit a home run Thursday and establish herself as a proven, capable leader. Biden just needs to watch his mouth so-to-speak. Advantage Biden but this one is sure to be entertaining.
Be sure to tune in!
It’s finally time for vice presidential candidates Joe Biden and Sarah Palen to take the stage for their debate Thursday night. Funny how far we’ve come since the conventions.
At convention time, it seemed as though there was almost more excitement for this debate than the ones between the real candidates Barack Obama and John McCain. Time has past and the hype has subsided as I predicted.
Now, the first debate between McCain and Obama lacked the excitement and notable sound bytes that everyone was hoping for, but don’t expect that Thursday night.
Biden has already made a name once again for going off script and treading a very thin line on the campaign trail. He is certain to give us poster board material - he proved that during the democratic primary debates.
Palin on the other hand has more pressure Thursday. She has one last night essentially to prove that she is qualified to hold a position that would put her one heartbeat away from being the most powerful leader in the world. She has a lot to prove in this debate. Biden has a lengthy career in politics in being a leader and decision maker which gives him the lead going in.
Palin needs to hit a home run Thursday and establish herself as a proven, capable leader. Biden just needs to watch his mouth so-to-speak. Advantage Biden but this one is sure to be entertaining.
Be sure to tune in!
Great New Ad! Great New Site
By Matt:
I know that a lot of "right-leaners" out there are probably shocked that I will be voting no on Initiated Measure 11 - the South Dakota Abortion Ban.
Generally speaking, this tends to be a "party" issue, even when it really has nothing to do with party politics. I am a "pro-choice" Republican and I think there are quite a few of us out there.
Want to know why I'm not supportive of banning abortion? Because I think this is private and personal. Do I necessarily support abortion? No. But, I also don't think that I have any right to tell any other person what he or she should do in any given situation.
As a Republican I am against BIG Government and I'm against Government Intrusion into the personal matters of people. That's exactly what Initatied Measure is.
Check it out for yourself. The Campaign for Healthy Families launched it's second TV spot this week... it's pretty good. And... there's also a great new website that picks apart the measure so you, too, can see it's flaws.
http://www.readthefineprint.org/
I know that a lot of "right-leaners" out there are probably shocked that I will be voting no on Initiated Measure 11 - the South Dakota Abortion Ban.
Generally speaking, this tends to be a "party" issue, even when it really has nothing to do with party politics. I am a "pro-choice" Republican and I think there are quite a few of us out there.
Want to know why I'm not supportive of banning abortion? Because I think this is private and personal. Do I necessarily support abortion? No. But, I also don't think that I have any right to tell any other person what he or she should do in any given situation.
As a Republican I am against BIG Government and I'm against Government Intrusion into the personal matters of people. That's exactly what Initatied Measure is.
Check it out for yourself. The Campaign for Healthy Families launched it's second TV spot this week... it's pretty good. And... there's also a great new website that picks apart the measure so you, too, can see it's flaws.
http://www.readthefineprint.org/
Monday, September 29, 2008
Enough is Enough
By Matt:
I am 31 years old and for the first time in my life I have fundamentally lost all faith in the people leading our country. This, of course, is a result of the recent bailout package that is currently circulating through our do-nothing Congress. And although countless Senators have come out and said “we warned of this happening,” I cannot find a single documented instance of that actually happening. What were our so-called leaders thinking????
Who thought it was a good plan to lower the under-writing guidelines so that people could get a mortgage who never had a chance of repaying them? Oh wait…it was Bill Clinton because you know it’s not politically correct to be denied a loan.
Who thought it was a good idea to allow Fannie and Freddie to loan out unlimited amounts of money to banks as long as it was going to be appropriated to loan programs for the above mentioned programs? Oh wait... it was all the Congressman who have had their pockets so lined with Fannie and Freddie dollars - Obama being the #2 leading beneficiary over the past two years.
But it’s not just the Democrats. There has not been a single Republican to take a strong stand on this over the past 13 years! This Congress is the most incompetent, self indulged group of morons this country has ever seen. They all need to be kicked out!
And the public certainly has to be blamed as well. When are we going to wake up and realize that absolutely no major government led program has been successful over the last 25 years? There’s Social Security, Welfare, the Public Schools, Fannie and Freddie and now the leading candidate in the presidential race wants to add yet another one: Health Care. As my 3 year old son would say with such vim and vigor: ”oooohhhhh good idea!”
I am 31 years old and for the first time in my life I have fundamentally lost all faith in the people leading our country. This, of course, is a result of the recent bailout package that is currently circulating through our do-nothing Congress. And although countless Senators have come out and said “we warned of this happening,” I cannot find a single documented instance of that actually happening. What were our so-called leaders thinking????
Who thought it was a good plan to lower the under-writing guidelines so that people could get a mortgage who never had a chance of repaying them? Oh wait…it was Bill Clinton because you know it’s not politically correct to be denied a loan.
Who thought it was a good idea to allow Fannie and Freddie to loan out unlimited amounts of money to banks as long as it was going to be appropriated to loan programs for the above mentioned programs? Oh wait... it was all the Congressman who have had their pockets so lined with Fannie and Freddie dollars - Obama being the #2 leading beneficiary over the past two years.
But it’s not just the Democrats. There has not been a single Republican to take a strong stand on this over the past 13 years! This Congress is the most incompetent, self indulged group of morons this country has ever seen. They all need to be kicked out!
And the public certainly has to be blamed as well. When are we going to wake up and realize that absolutely no major government led program has been successful over the last 25 years? There’s Social Security, Welfare, the Public Schools, Fannie and Freddie and now the leading candidate in the presidential race wants to add yet another one: Health Care. As my 3 year old son would say with such vim and vigor: ”oooohhhhh good idea!”
Thursday, September 25, 2008
To Clarify
By Mark:
I wrote yesterday that the candidates were bailing out on the bailout and I suggested that they should be involved if they have all the answers like they claim.
Now, apparently I should have specified. That did not mean they should show up today when it’s too late and most of the work has been done. I didn’t suggest that they should show up for a few hours for a political photo op.
McCain said yesterday that he was suspending his campaign, yeah right. Most of what he was going to do today and tomorrow was prepare for tomorrow night’s debate. This was a political move and I hope people see through it.
I wrote yesterday that the candidates were bailing out on the bailout and I suggested that they should be involved if they have all the answers like they claim.
Now, apparently I should have specified. That did not mean they should show up today when it’s too late and most of the work has been done. I didn’t suggest that they should show up for a few hours for a political photo op.
McCain said yesterday that he was suspending his campaign, yeah right. Most of what he was going to do today and tomorrow was prepare for tomorrow night’s debate. This was a political move and I hope people see through it.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Candidates Bailout on Bailout
By Mark:
Congress is on Capital Hill this week laying out the framework for a $700 billion bailout plan for the U.S. financial system.
Two notable senators are not present this week however. Both John McCain and Barack Obama have remained on the campaign trail rather than returning to Washington to help with this major crisis.
What’s even better is that they both have the egos to tell the media and those at campaign rallies that they know how to fix the problem, they have the right solution. Beyond that, they have both said that there are flaws with the current bailout plan. So if they have the solution and know that Congress’ solution needs work, why aren’t they in Washington sharing their expertise?
Both McCain and Obama preach about how they will always do what’s best for America and will bring change to this country. I’d say they both seem to be looking out for themselves rather than the American people right now.
Even Hillary Clinton is letting her ego shine throughout this all. Clinton is now saying that she saw this coming a long time ago and warned people. She was campaigning for a year, did you hear her warn of this? I sure didn’t.
Congress is on Capital Hill this week laying out the framework for a $700 billion bailout plan for the U.S. financial system.
Two notable senators are not present this week however. Both John McCain and Barack Obama have remained on the campaign trail rather than returning to Washington to help with this major crisis.
What’s even better is that they both have the egos to tell the media and those at campaign rallies that they know how to fix the problem, they have the right solution. Beyond that, they have both said that there are flaws with the current bailout plan. So if they have the solution and know that Congress’ solution needs work, why aren’t they in Washington sharing their expertise?
Both McCain and Obama preach about how they will always do what’s best for America and will bring change to this country. I’d say they both seem to be looking out for themselves rather than the American people right now.
Even Hillary Clinton is letting her ego shine throughout this all. Clinton is now saying that she saw this coming a long time ago and warned people. She was campaigning for a year, did you hear her warn of this? I sure didn’t.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Dude vs. Chick
By Mark:
Watching the presidential candidates on the campaign trail the past few days I heard something that really made me raise my eyebrows.
Last week in Iowa, Sarah Palin was giving her introduction speech for John McCain and in the process she introduced her husband and referred to him as the first ‘dude’ of Alaska.
Excuse me? So that’s fine for her to say that? If John McCain were to introduce his wife as the future first ‘chick’ of the United States he would single-handedly end his chances of being elected President of the United States.
Can we say double standard? It’s funny for Sarah Palin to call her husband a dude and makes her look cool and hip, but if a candidate referred to a woman as a chick they would be called a total sexist.
Did it really upset me that Sarah Palin called her husband the first ‘dude’ of Alaska? No, I couldn’t care less. But it is interesting how there is a double standard with the topic.
Watching the presidential candidates on the campaign trail the past few days I heard something that really made me raise my eyebrows.
Last week in Iowa, Sarah Palin was giving her introduction speech for John McCain and in the process she introduced her husband and referred to him as the first ‘dude’ of Alaska.
Excuse me? So that’s fine for her to say that? If John McCain were to introduce his wife as the future first ‘chick’ of the United States he would single-handedly end his chances of being elected President of the United States.
Can we say double standard? It’s funny for Sarah Palin to call her husband a dude and makes her look cool and hip, but if a candidate referred to a woman as a chick they would be called a total sexist.
Did it really upset me that Sarah Palin called her husband the first ‘dude’ of Alaska? No, I couldn’t care less. But it is interesting how there is a double standard with the topic.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Great Read on Flip-Flopping
By Mark:
George Bush gave a strong and brief statement regarding the current market this morning. Talking with friends who work in the financial industry, many believe that a turnaround is very near which is comforting to hear.
No real gripes from me this morning, but I did want to direct you to a good read. A friend of mine in Pennsylvania had a great commentary on flip-flopping and brings up a great point – it’s better to be a flip-flopper than not – it demonstrates an ability and willingness to work with others and be convinced that your ideas aren’t always the right ones or the only ones.
Check it out: Flip-Flopping? By Jake Miller
George Bush gave a strong and brief statement regarding the current market this morning. Talking with friends who work in the financial industry, many believe that a turnaround is very near which is comforting to hear.
No real gripes from me this morning, but I did want to direct you to a good read. A friend of mine in Pennsylvania had a great commentary on flip-flopping and brings up a great point – it’s better to be a flip-flopper than not – it demonstrates an ability and willingness to work with others and be convinced that your ideas aren’t always the right ones or the only ones.
Check it out: Flip-Flopping? By Jake Miller
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
I Blame McCain for Twins’ Downfall
By Mark:
So I called it a month ago and what do you know it’s coming true. Yup, I’m blaming the republicans and John McCain for the Minnesota Twins’ dismal play down the stretch.
The Twins are now 2.5 games out of first place and, after seeing a decline in their results thanks to a 15-game road trip the team was forced to take while the Republican Convention was in St. Paul, it doesn’t look like they are going to recover. The Twins went 6-9 on that road trip and are yet to get their feet back underneath them and start playing better baseball.
So shame on you Republicans and your ‘maverick’ John McCain. Shame on you for ruing my team’s chances of making the playoffs. The Democrats were kind enough to host their convention in Denver, obviously because the Colorado Rockies had zero chance of making the playoffs.
So my message here is we need to keep politics and sports separate. I doubt game seven of the World Series would ever be played on Election Day.
Perhaps the real message of this post is that I’m tired of listening to candidates repeat portions of their convention speeches like they are on some rock concert tour and can just do the same set every day. It seems there is nothing new to talk about aside from the market issues right now and I’ll defer to Matt on that topic.
We’ve got six weeks before the election so let’s get the debates going and turn up the heat on this vital election.
So I called it a month ago and what do you know it’s coming true. Yup, I’m blaming the republicans and John McCain for the Minnesota Twins’ dismal play down the stretch.
The Twins are now 2.5 games out of first place and, after seeing a decline in their results thanks to a 15-game road trip the team was forced to take while the Republican Convention was in St. Paul, it doesn’t look like they are going to recover. The Twins went 6-9 on that road trip and are yet to get their feet back underneath them and start playing better baseball.
So shame on you Republicans and your ‘maverick’ John McCain. Shame on you for ruing my team’s chances of making the playoffs. The Democrats were kind enough to host their convention in Denver, obviously because the Colorado Rockies had zero chance of making the playoffs.
So my message here is we need to keep politics and sports separate. I doubt game seven of the World Series would ever be played on Election Day.
Perhaps the real message of this post is that I’m tired of listening to candidates repeat portions of their convention speeches like they are on some rock concert tour and can just do the same set every day. It seems there is nothing new to talk about aside from the market issues right now and I’ll defer to Matt on that topic.
We’ve got six weeks before the election so let’s get the debates going and turn up the heat on this vital election.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Finally Some Common Ground
By Matt and Mark:
New web ad by the SD Campaign for Healthy Families. Check it out.
This is an important message regarding Initiated Measure 11 and it's dangerously vague language.
New web ad by the SD Campaign for Healthy Families. Check it out.
This is an important message regarding Initiated Measure 11 and it's dangerously vague language.
Monday, September 15, 2008
NFL Bigger than the Election
By Matt:
I have always been disgusted that more people vote on American Idol on any given week than in the Presidential Election - or any election for that matter - but I am starting to see how and why this happens. In the last two weeks I have been engrossed in a topic that means nothing to the overall health of this country much like American Idol. The only political things that have perked my ears up and made me listen since the two conventions are that McCain’s numbers are continuing to rise - AWESOME news - and Obama continuing to throw the same tired old line of “do you want four more years of Bush?”
And, to make it worse, I am realizing that I have not really gone looking for news from the campaigns either.
Instead of listening to political talk radio I find myself consistently having ESPN on in the car. Instead of hearing what both candidates are saying on any given day, I’m searching out Tom Brady’s injury or what my Fantasy Football players' statuses are. And, instead of talking politics with my wife our conversations have become more focused on our 2-0 Packers.
Is that bad or are other people this intoxicated with the NFL??? Or is it that nothing is really happening on the campaign trail right now and we are all just waiting for the debates? We’ll see. Let us hope that McCain and Palin continue to rock the polls the way that the Pack has rocked the Vikings and Lions the past two weeks.
As a side note, I would like to thank Pastor Hickey for reading my post this weekend. Please don't call me "left" again. If you continue to read my blog, you'll find that it's a much more appropriate title to bestow on my counterpart.
I have always been disgusted that more people vote on American Idol on any given week than in the Presidential Election - or any election for that matter - but I am starting to see how and why this happens. In the last two weeks I have been engrossed in a topic that means nothing to the overall health of this country much like American Idol. The only political things that have perked my ears up and made me listen since the two conventions are that McCain’s numbers are continuing to rise - AWESOME news - and Obama continuing to throw the same tired old line of “do you want four more years of Bush?”
And, to make it worse, I am realizing that I have not really gone looking for news from the campaigns either.
Instead of listening to political talk radio I find myself consistently having ESPN on in the car. Instead of hearing what both candidates are saying on any given day, I’m searching out Tom Brady’s injury or what my Fantasy Football players' statuses are. And, instead of talking politics with my wife our conversations have become more focused on our 2-0 Packers.
Is that bad or are other people this intoxicated with the NFL??? Or is it that nothing is really happening on the campaign trail right now and we are all just waiting for the debates? We’ll see. Let us hope that McCain and Palin continue to rock the polls the way that the Pack has rocked the Vikings and Lions the past two weeks.
As a side note, I would like to thank Pastor Hickey for reading my post this weekend. Please don't call me "left" again. If you continue to read my blog, you'll find that it's a much more appropriate title to bestow on my counterpart.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
"Choice" at the Gate
By Matt:
Choice. It's a word that carries so much symbolism when it comes to our county’s history. Choice is what has led this country to be so great! 
The significance of having the power of choice could not be summed up better than what was stated in a recent mailer I received from Church at the Gate. The piece states: "Americans like options. We dislike being told what to do. As powerful as God is, he does not exert his power over human will, or a nation’s will for that matter. Theologians call this freewill.”
THAT’S AWESOME! I applaud the marketing department of Church at the Gate. It’s total B.S. but well done. The reason that it’s total B.S. is the because the Church is led by Pastor Steve Hickey. I check out his blog frequently and he is for choice about as much as Leslee Unruh is.
Not only is Pastor Hickey a major force in the Vote Yes on 11 Campaign, he is consistently using his blog to launch smear campaigns against anyone who doesn't share his point of view. Recently he went after a young woman at the SD Campaign for Healthy Families because of her work against Initiated Measure 11. He went so far as to post personal information about this young woman and her family. Totally uncalled for and totally disgusting.
He acts in a manner that is not consistant with any kind of Christianity that I know. What happened to Loving thy Neighbor?
But, it's his choice to act the way he does. It's his freedom. Just as it's my choice to call him out on it.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Here We Go
By Mark:
I was watching the 5 o’clock news tonight on KELO and after the weather segment, an ad caught my attention.It was from VoteYesForLife.com talking about the upcoming abortion ban in South Dakota – Initiated Measure 11. Oh boy, here we go again.
Didn’t South Dakotans already vote against a ban on abortion by a vote of 56 to 44? I’m just not ready for this divisive debate once again.I would’ve missed the ad because in all honesty, it’s pretty darn boring.
I find several things very curious about this ad – not to mention inaccurate.
The ad claims Initiated Measure 11 was “written by South Dakotans for South Dakotans.” This is just not true. We know that it was heavily crafted by Harold Cassidy, a New Jersey trial lawyer. If you search his name on YouTube, you’ll find plenty of videos in which he’s talking about the “importance” of this measure in South Dakota. I love it when outside interests use our state as a battle ground. Which makes me wonder: was this really written for South Dakotans? I highly doubt it. In fact, I’m pretty darn sure that this is an attempt to create an abortion-free America… a direct challenge to Roe.
The ad claims that this ban has exceptions. It does not. Plain and simple. If you take the time to read this poorly crafted measure, you will find it’s full of legal jargon that is confusing and deceiving. I cannot imagine any doctor in SD being willing to perform an abortion for fear of prosecution. Great, now we’re putting politicians in the exam room. Now doctors will have to put their own careers ahead of the best line of care for their patients.
There is no question, this is a sensitive issue. I think we can all agree on that. That is why it is so important for people to make up their own minds about this… not the Government.
For more information check out what Cory over at Madville Times has to say about the issue.
I was watching the 5 o’clock news tonight on KELO and after the weather segment, an ad caught my attention.It was from VoteYesForLife.com talking about the upcoming abortion ban in South Dakota – Initiated Measure 11. Oh boy, here we go again.
Didn’t South Dakotans already vote against a ban on abortion by a vote of 56 to 44? I’m just not ready for this divisive debate once again.I would’ve missed the ad because in all honesty, it’s pretty darn boring.
I find several things very curious about this ad – not to mention inaccurate.
The ad claims Initiated Measure 11 was “written by South Dakotans for South Dakotans.” This is just not true. We know that it was heavily crafted by Harold Cassidy, a New Jersey trial lawyer. If you search his name on YouTube, you’ll find plenty of videos in which he’s talking about the “importance” of this measure in South Dakota. I love it when outside interests use our state as a battle ground. Which makes me wonder: was this really written for South Dakotans? I highly doubt it. In fact, I’m pretty darn sure that this is an attempt to create an abortion-free America… a direct challenge to Roe.
The ad claims that this ban has exceptions. It does not. Plain and simple. If you take the time to read this poorly crafted measure, you will find it’s full of legal jargon that is confusing and deceiving. I cannot imagine any doctor in SD being willing to perform an abortion for fear of prosecution. Great, now we’re putting politicians in the exam room. Now doctors will have to put their own careers ahead of the best line of care for their patients.
There is no question, this is a sensitive issue. I think we can all agree on that. That is why it is so important for people to make up their own minds about this… not the Government.
For more information check out what Cory over at Madville Times has to say about the issue.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Sign O'Rama
By Matt:
As I mentioned in a previous post, I've been away for almost a week. And, even though my beautiful wife was in Oregon with me on vacation, she was apparently very busy back here at home as well.
Well, not actually, but it appeared so.
We pulled into Sioux Falls, wiping the exhaustion from our brow early Tuesday evening and when we did, there was a plethora of yard signs ALL over our yard. When I say "plethora" I mean it. Especially because we have a corner lot and that means each candidate can give us two signs which my wife was quick to agree to.
I don't mind yard signs. They're fun and supportive and all that jazz. But, it got me thinking... do they really work? What is their real purpose? And, how odd is it when you have spouses (like us) who don't always agree on candidates and you've got one for each who's running against one another. Do they motivate neighbors? Do they influence anything?
Personally, as soon as the Initiated Measure 11 signs go up, I think the signs divide neighbors and families. People you thought were your friends are suddenly turning their noses up at you because you don't agree on the very sensitive issue of abortion and who should be making those decisions - the government or women and their families. Regardless, I know my wife will be sure we have at least two of those in our yard.
I'd be curious to know what you all think. Do signs work?
As I mentioned in a previous post, I've been away for almost a week. And, even though my beautiful wife was in Oregon with me on vacation, she was apparently very busy back here at home as well.
Well, not actually, but it appeared so.
We pulled into Sioux Falls, wiping the exhaustion from our brow early Tuesday evening and when we did, there was a plethora of yard signs ALL over our yard. When I say "plethora" I mean it. Especially because we have a corner lot and that means each candidate can give us two signs which my wife was quick to agree to.
I don't mind yard signs. They're fun and supportive and all that jazz. But, it got me thinking... do they really work? What is their real purpose? And, how odd is it when you have spouses (like us) who don't always agree on candidates and you've got one for each who's running against one another. Do they motivate neighbors? Do they influence anything?
Personally, as soon as the Initiated Measure 11 signs go up, I think the signs divide neighbors and families. People you thought were your friends are suddenly turning their noses up at you because you don't agree on the very sensitive issue of abortion and who should be making those decisions - the government or women and their families. Regardless, I know my wife will be sure we have at least two of those in our yard.
I'd be curious to know what you all think. Do signs work?
At What Point Do Clinton's Eye 2012?
By Mark:
Bill and Hillary Clinton’s endorsement of Barack Obama was appropriate and vital at the Democratic Convention and moving forward as they have continued to do.
But how long will they continue to do so?
Obama is still neck-and-neck with John McCain in the polls but if McCain were to start gaining a slight edge, how long will the Clinton’s stand by Obama’s side?
If polls begin to indicate that the McCain camp is distancing itself, the Clinton’s may start eyeing 2012 and jump off the Obama bandwagon.
I think the Clinton’s truly believe Obama would do great things as the leader of this country, but as I’ve said before, politics are politics, and the Clinton’s will look out for themselves if the Democrats fall behind.
So it’s game time for Obama. The first debate on September 26 at the University of Mississippi will be critical for Obama. He must be sharp going off script and gain a lead on McCain with a large national audience watching or else the Clinton’s may jump ship.
Bill and Hillary Clinton’s endorsement of Barack Obama was appropriate and vital at the Democratic Convention and moving forward as they have continued to do.
But how long will they continue to do so?
Obama is still neck-and-neck with John McCain in the polls but if McCain were to start gaining a slight edge, how long will the Clinton’s stand by Obama’s side?
If polls begin to indicate that the McCain camp is distancing itself, the Clinton’s may start eyeing 2012 and jump off the Obama bandwagon.
I think the Clinton’s truly believe Obama would do great things as the leader of this country, but as I’ve said before, politics are politics, and the Clinton’s will look out for themselves if the Democrats fall behind.
So it’s game time for Obama. The first debate on September 26 at the University of Mississippi will be critical for Obama. He must be sharp going off script and gain a lead on McCain with a large national audience watching or else the Clinton’s may jump ship.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Let’s Regroup and Remember Our Opponent
By Mark:
Like many, I thought that John McCain’s selection of Sarah Palin as his running mate came from the upper deck in the left field bleachers, but it’s time for Barack Obama and the Democrats to move beyond that.
Here we are a week later and most of what I read from the Democrats is still targeting Palin’s experience and this and that. Folks, John McCain is the opponent! Let’s refocus here.
It was a strange choice and it gave you a chance to take some shots at Palin and McCain but now it’s time to change gears and let your plan be known.
People are attacking Obama for just being a charismatic speaker and not having a plan. It’s time for Obama to go more in depth to how he is going to bring about change. Obama is clearly a far superior public speaker to McCain, so Obama’s best bet now is to spread the word of what he stands for so McCain can no longer say Obama doesn’t have a plan.
I can’t wait for the first debate at the end of this month. I’m tired of hearing the same speeches from both candidates. Let’s make them go off script and find out what their plan for America is and get a better idea of who can best get this country back on track both at home and abroad.
Like many, I thought that John McCain’s selection of Sarah Palin as his running mate came from the upper deck in the left field bleachers, but it’s time for Barack Obama and the Democrats to move beyond that.
Here we are a week later and most of what I read from the Democrats is still targeting Palin’s experience and this and that. Folks, John McCain is the opponent! Let’s refocus here.
It was a strange choice and it gave you a chance to take some shots at Palin and McCain but now it’s time to change gears and let your plan be known.
People are attacking Obama for just being a charismatic speaker and not having a plan. It’s time for Obama to go more in depth to how he is going to bring about change. Obama is clearly a far superior public speaker to McCain, so Obama’s best bet now is to spread the word of what he stands for so McCain can no longer say Obama doesn’t have a plan.
I can’t wait for the first debate at the end of this month. I’m tired of hearing the same speeches from both candidates. Let’s make them go off script and find out what their plan for America is and get a better idea of who can best get this country back on track both at home and abroad.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Back From the Hood
By Matt:
I'm back. Sorry for the lack of posts. I just returned from an awesome trip to Oregon for a wedding with my wife. One of her college roommates got married in the mountains and it was incredible.
But, now I'm back, and I've got a lot to say about what has been happening while I was gone.
First, the RNC. I haven't had a chance to post a single thing on the RNC.
We left for Oregon via Wisconsin on Wednesday night. We made sure to drive my wifes car so that we could listen to her satellite radio and get both the Guiliani and Palin speeches. Much like Muhammad Ali, Guiliani came out with a rope-a-dope technique. But, he quickly turned to "stinging like a bee" using the Obama campaign as his punching bag.
Palin took her fair share of shots at the campaign as well. She was quick to point out Obama's "experience" as a community organizer, versus her job as an executive in both Wasilla and Juneau. I think she started off a bit slow, but I was more than impressed by the end of the evening.
Critics have accused both Guiliani and Palin of being too harsh or nasty. The only reason they're saying that is because the truth hurts.
So, we're in beautiful Mt. Hood, Oregon and instead of seeing some sites on Thursday, my wife and I hunkered down to watch McCain's acceptance speech marking the final night of the convention.
As expected, the McCain Speech didn't live up to the Palin home run the night before. Obviously McCain is not the most charismatic of speakers. But, he had a real opportunity to beat the Democrats with some serious strategies and policy plans... AKA a platform. This used to be one of the major purposes of these conventions. Apparently both parties find these more of a pep rally these days. I thought the McCain speech was solid. But, I do wish he would've given me a little more to sink my teeth into.
As a real short side thought (because that is all they deserve), I would like to mention my absolute disgust for the men and women who thought Senator McCain's speech was the perfect time to make a protest statement about whatever issue they think the Republicans are missing the boat on. I support free speech. But, folks, there is a time and a place.
I'm back. Sorry for the lack of posts. I just returned from an awesome trip to Oregon for a wedding with my wife. One of her college roommates got married in the mountains and it was incredible.
But, now I'm back, and I've got a lot to say about what has been happening while I was gone.
First, the RNC. I haven't had a chance to post a single thing on the RNC.
We left for Oregon via Wisconsin on Wednesday night. We made sure to drive my wifes car so that we could listen to her satellite radio and get both the Guiliani and Palin speeches. Much like Muhammad Ali, Guiliani came out with a rope-a-dope technique. But, he quickly turned to "stinging like a bee" using the Obama campaign as his punching bag.
Palin took her fair share of shots at the campaign as well. She was quick to point out Obama's "experience" as a community organizer, versus her job as an executive in both Wasilla and Juneau. I think she started off a bit slow, but I was more than impressed by the end of the evening.
Critics have accused both Guiliani and Palin of being too harsh or nasty. The only reason they're saying that is because the truth hurts.
So, we're in beautiful Mt. Hood, Oregon and instead of seeing some sites on Thursday, my wife and I hunkered down to watch McCain's acceptance speech marking the final night of the convention.
As expected, the McCain Speech didn't live up to the Palin home run the night before. Obviously McCain is not the most charismatic of speakers. But, he had a real opportunity to beat the Democrats with some serious strategies and policy plans... AKA a platform. This used to be one of the major purposes of these conventions. Apparently both parties find these more of a pep rally these days. I thought the McCain speech was solid. But, I do wish he would've given me a little more to sink my teeth into.
As a real short side thought (because that is all they deserve), I would like to mention my absolute disgust for the men and women who thought Senator McCain's speech was the perfect time to make a protest statement about whatever issue they think the Republicans are missing the boat on. I support free speech. But, folks, there is a time and a place.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Another Month of Job Loss!
By Mark:
As expected, for the eighth straight month August saw a loss of jobs in the United States. Unemployment has now sweltered to a five-year low with 605,000 jobs being lost already this year. Just over 6% of Americans are now unemployed, these are people that want to work and can’t find it. Isn’t that amazing, 6% of qualified, hard-working Americans don’t have jobs. About 84,000 jobs were lost in August alone.
The manufacturing industry saw the biggest loss with 61,000 jobs disappearing.
Yet John McCain believes our economy is in a good place. Well if he considers oil companies continuing to make record profits while hard-working Americans are getting squeezed at the pump a good economy then yeah I’d say it’s great. I don’t think McCain’s Bush-like view on the economy is going to cut it.
The numbers are actually even more staggering than they seem. The figures only reflect those without work who are looking for jobs. They do not include those who are looking for full-time work but can only find part-time jobs.
Whatever your theory is on how the government can influence the job market, it is clear that we have a serious issue with unemployment and the economy in this country and it’s irresponsible for George Bush and John McCain to say they like where the economy is at and where it’s headed.
Barack Obama gets it when it comes to the job market. He believes Americans should be able to make a ‘living wage’ and he voted for raising the minimum wage to $7.25 and for restricting employer interference in union organizing. The AFL-CIO has given him a rating of 100%.
As expected, for the eighth straight month August saw a loss of jobs in the United States. Unemployment has now sweltered to a five-year low with 605,000 jobs being lost already this year. Just over 6% of Americans are now unemployed, these are people that want to work and can’t find it. Isn’t that amazing, 6% of qualified, hard-working Americans don’t have jobs. About 84,000 jobs were lost in August alone.
The manufacturing industry saw the biggest loss with 61,000 jobs disappearing.
Yet John McCain believes our economy is in a good place. Well if he considers oil companies continuing to make record profits while hard-working Americans are getting squeezed at the pump a good economy then yeah I’d say it’s great. I don’t think McCain’s Bush-like view on the economy is going to cut it.
The numbers are actually even more staggering than they seem. The figures only reflect those without work who are looking for jobs. They do not include those who are looking for full-time work but can only find part-time jobs.
Whatever your theory is on how the government can influence the job market, it is clear that we have a serious issue with unemployment and the economy in this country and it’s irresponsible for George Bush and John McCain to say they like where the economy is at and where it’s headed.
Barack Obama gets it when it comes to the job market. He believes Americans should be able to make a ‘living wage’ and he voted for raising the minimum wage to $7.25 and for restricting employer interference in union organizing. The AFL-CIO has given him a rating of 100%.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Response to Palin Speech
By Mark:
So I said I wouldn’t pick on Sarah Palin anymore and I meant it, until her speech last night. I was very impressed by her public speaking talents, but a couple things stuck out to me that need addressing.
She spoke about how people have picked on her for her ‘executive experience’. Well Governor Palin, you’re getting picked on because that ‘executive experience’ is being the mayor of a small town of 5,000 people and then two years as Governor of Alaska.
My second problem with her speech was how she attacked the media for their criticism of her. Way to call out and anger those who will influence more votes than all the candidates will combined. You may not like the media right now Sarah Palin, but you need them on your side and calling them out may not have been the way to go about it.
Also, Palin said Obama has never authored a bill. Way to do your research, he has authored bills, look it up!
Another thing that needs to be addressed is that the criticism of Palin has nothing to do with sexism! It’s a qualifications issue. So one CNN reporter questioned if she could handle the duties with her family responsibilities. Ok, that wasn’t Barack Obama or anyone associated with his campaign that said that, it was one reporter on one station.
People saying that reporters or critics are sexist because they aren’t Sarah Palin fans makes about as much sense as saying Sarah Palin is racist based on her attacks on Barack Obama in her convention speech. Come on…get real!
This is a unique and historic election. We have an African American and a woman on tickets. This is uncharted territory and politics are politics and there are claims and attacks made by politicians and critics. Let’s leave the sexist and race cards out of the election and let politics be politics.
By the way, I like how John McCain copied Obama’s appearance on the stage following the Veep acceptance speech. The guy looked brutally uncomfortable up there and did about a quarter as good of a job getting the arena fired up as Obama did last week. Nice try McCain.
So I said I wouldn’t pick on Sarah Palin anymore and I meant it, until her speech last night. I was very impressed by her public speaking talents, but a couple things stuck out to me that need addressing.
She spoke about how people have picked on her for her ‘executive experience’. Well Governor Palin, you’re getting picked on because that ‘executive experience’ is being the mayor of a small town of 5,000 people and then two years as Governor of Alaska.
My second problem with her speech was how she attacked the media for their criticism of her. Way to call out and anger those who will influence more votes than all the candidates will combined. You may not like the media right now Sarah Palin, but you need them on your side and calling them out may not have been the way to go about it.
Also, Palin said Obama has never authored a bill. Way to do your research, he has authored bills, look it up!
Another thing that needs to be addressed is that the criticism of Palin has nothing to do with sexism! It’s a qualifications issue. So one CNN reporter questioned if she could handle the duties with her family responsibilities. Ok, that wasn’t Barack Obama or anyone associated with his campaign that said that, it was one reporter on one station.
People saying that reporters or critics are sexist because they aren’t Sarah Palin fans makes about as much sense as saying Sarah Palin is racist based on her attacks on Barack Obama in her convention speech. Come on…get real!
This is a unique and historic election. We have an African American and a woman on tickets. This is uncharted territory and politics are politics and there are claims and attacks made by politicians and critics. Let’s leave the sexist and race cards out of the election and let politics be politics.
By the way, I like how John McCain copied Obama’s appearance on the stage following the Veep acceptance speech. The guy looked brutally uncomfortable up there and did about a quarter as good of a job getting the arena fired up as Obama did last week. Nice try McCain.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Does Liberalism Really Mean Feminism?
By Matt:
John F. Kennedy, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and even the chosen one, Barrack Obama, have all run for the nations highest office with one thing in common - they all had or have had children still living at home during the election. But unlike Sarah Palin, none of them ever had to face the questions and accusations on the topic of parenthood that she has had to face over the last 4 days. One CNN reporter even went so far as to say: "it really makes you wonder if Palin can handle the responsibility of having a five month old with the duties that come along with being the Vice President”. Come on!!!! I have never looked at comments from the media - or anyone for that matter - with a suspicious eye that is on the look out for racism, ageism or sexism but you do not have to look to0 deep to clearly see this quote is blatant sexism.
And who do we call when women are not being treated fairly? The ACLU? But, the ACLU will not touch this with a 10 foot pool because of its legitimacy. Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton? Whoops, Palin is white - they’re not going to help. We need to go grassroots-we need to go to the feminists. Well we’ve called - no one is answering!
I am no expert on feminism but at its core I'm fairly confident that it strives for equality in all spectrums from politics to economics between the sexes. Equality is at the doorstep. There is a woman on the presidential ticket. I would think that feminists would be thrilled that a woman (and I hate to quote Obama) “is a heartbeat away from being president”.
I know the feminists were thrilled when Hillary was up there last week speaking about how proud she was of being a mother and a daughter. Hell, she was so sincere that she made the ultimate womanizer himself tear up and mouth the words I love you. Scary how not even two days after Hillary’s speech Palin said how proud she was to be a woman and a mother, but it was not received nearly as well from the feminist groups or Hillary Clinton for that matter!
My God, attack her all you want for her experience - McCain basically threw you all a meat ball on that one. But, how dare you attack her for being a mother, a wife and a WOMAN. Where’s the sudden absence of the movement for equality? It makes me wonder which it really is... feminism or liberalism?
John F. Kennedy, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and even the chosen one, Barrack Obama, have all run for the nations highest office with one thing in common - they all had or have had children still living at home during the election. But unlike Sarah Palin, none of them ever had to face the questions and accusations on the topic of parenthood that she has had to face over the last 4 days. One CNN reporter even went so far as to say: "it really makes you wonder if Palin can handle the responsibility of having a five month old with the duties that come along with being the Vice President”. Come on!!!! I have never looked at comments from the media - or anyone for that matter - with a suspicious eye that is on the look out for racism, ageism or sexism but you do not have to look to0 deep to clearly see this quote is blatant sexism.
And who do we call when women are not being treated fairly? The ACLU? But, the ACLU will not touch this with a 10 foot pool because of its legitimacy. Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton? Whoops, Palin is white - they’re not going to help. We need to go grassroots-we need to go to the feminists. Well we’ve called - no one is answering!
I am no expert on feminism but at its core I'm fairly confident that it strives for equality in all spectrums from politics to economics between the sexes. Equality is at the doorstep. There is a woman on the presidential ticket. I would think that feminists would be thrilled that a woman (and I hate to quote Obama) “is a heartbeat away from being president”.
I know the feminists were thrilled when Hillary was up there last week speaking about how proud she was of being a mother and a daughter. Hell, she was so sincere that she made the ultimate womanizer himself tear up and mouth the words I love you. Scary how not even two days after Hillary’s speech Palin said how proud she was to be a woman and a mother, but it was not received nearly as well from the feminist groups or Hillary Clinton for that matter!
My God, attack her all you want for her experience - McCain basically threw you all a meat ball on that one. But, how dare you attack her for being a mother, a wife and a WOMAN. Where’s the sudden absence of the movement for equality? It makes me wonder which it really is... feminism or liberalism?
Obama Lashes Out In New Abortion Ad
A new Barack Obama radio ad airing in seven swing states is blasting John McCain and Sarah Palin on their stance on abortion and women's rights.
The ad is narrated by a female nurse practitioner who says ‘Let me tell you: If Roe vs. Wade is overturned, the lives and health of women will be put at risk. That's why this election is so important. John McCain's out of touch with women today. McCain wants to take away our right to choose. That's what women need to understand. That's how high the stakes are.”
Obama has publicly supported abortion rights, unlike his two counterparts McCain and Palin who are adamantly pro-life.
One quick remark I have on last night’s convention. Can I say I love the ‘Country First’ signs that the republicans were raising last night. I couldn’t agree more, it’s time to take this country back after these past eight sorry years. I found it ironic that those signs were blue because Obama and Biden are the ones that can take this country back. So kudos to the republicans to have the know withal to get those signs printed in blue. Couldn’t agree more…nice work!
The ad is narrated by a female nurse practitioner who says ‘Let me tell you: If Roe vs. Wade is overturned, the lives and health of women will be put at risk. That's why this election is so important. John McCain's out of touch with women today. McCain wants to take away our right to choose. That's what women need to understand. That's how high the stakes are.”
Obama has publicly supported abortion rights, unlike his two counterparts McCain and Palin who are adamantly pro-life.
One quick remark I have on last night’s convention. Can I say I love the ‘Country First’ signs that the republicans were raising last night. I couldn’t agree more, it’s time to take this country back after these past eight sorry years. I found it ironic that those signs were blue because Obama and Biden are the ones that can take this country back. So kudos to the republicans to have the know withal to get those signs printed in blue. Couldn’t agree more…nice work!
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Are We Really Protecting Kids?
By Matt:
In school today kids are taught about the dangers of drugs, of alcohol, of not driving without their seat belts, of not prepping for their ACTs. They're even taught the dangers of not stretching properly after the calisthenics they go through in gym. It makes me wonder why we are not teaching them how to practice safe sex!!!???
This questioning of course is in light of yesterday’s announcement from Gov. Palin that her 17 year old daughter is now 5 months pregnant. Palin has been a strong supporter of the "abstinence-only" sex education. And, although we cannot assume that she has never spoken to her children about safe sex, we do know that not every parent does. We also know that these are the same parents who bury their head in the sand and think: my kid is not sexually active.
WAKE UP people-TEENAGERS ARE HAVING SEX-and you can take that all the way to your Purity Balls. They always have-they always will. Maybe not while their in high school but almost definitely when they hit college and even more definitely before they get married. Teach them to do it safely. Not only to prevent STD’s (which are rising at a spectacular rate among high school kids here in SD) but to prevent a 17 year old of facing the decision of raising a child while being a child and - in Palin’s daughters case - marriage!!! Which is absolutely insane!
In school today kids are taught about the dangers of drugs, of alcohol, of not driving without their seat belts, of not prepping for their ACTs. They're even taught the dangers of not stretching properly after the calisthenics they go through in gym. It makes me wonder why we are not teaching them how to practice safe sex!!!???
This questioning of course is in light of yesterday’s announcement from Gov. Palin that her 17 year old daughter is now 5 months pregnant. Palin has been a strong supporter of the "abstinence-only" sex education. And, although we cannot assume that she has never spoken to her children about safe sex, we do know that not every parent does. We also know that these are the same parents who bury their head in the sand and think: my kid is not sexually active.
WAKE UP people-TEENAGERS ARE HAVING SEX-and you can take that all the way to your Purity Balls. They always have-they always will. Maybe not while their in high school but almost definitely when they hit college and even more definitely before they get married. Teach them to do it safely. Not only to prevent STD’s (which are rising at a spectacular rate among high school kids here in SD) but to prevent a 17 year old of facing the decision of raising a child while being a child and - in Palin’s daughters case - marriage!!! Which is absolutely insane!
Monday, September 1, 2008
Sanford Sports Complex
By Mark:
Shifting slightly away from politics but sticking with something that would drastically improve Sioux Falls and the opportunities for its children. There has been a lot of buzz about the future Sanford Sports Complex in Sioux Falls but I’m ready for some local organizations to step up to the plate and do their part to finish this great project Sanford Health has set out to establish.
One facility talked about for the complex is a tennis center. Now as a tennis player this issue is a bit more personal for me. This is a project that has been talked about for more than a decade and the community just hasn’t got it done. Tennis has nearly fallen off the map in this area, both in the number of juniors playing and the level of talent. There is plenty of tennis money in this town and I wish people would join together and get this project done.
Another facility idea I have for the Sanford Sports Complex is a little league baseball complex. A couple weeks ago, a little league baseball team from Rapid City made it to the Little League World Series and had the opportunity to play nationally televised games on ESPN. Wow, what an opportunity. But guess what, as of right now kids in Sioux Falls don’t have that opportunity because there is no Little League Baseball League organized in Sioux Falls. Now that’s embarrassing. Somebody needs to step up and put that together so kids in Sioux Falls have the same opportunity that kids their age around the country have.
Shifting slightly away from politics but sticking with something that would drastically improve Sioux Falls and the opportunities for its children. There has been a lot of buzz about the future Sanford Sports Complex in Sioux Falls but I’m ready for some local organizations to step up to the plate and do their part to finish this great project Sanford Health has set out to establish.
One facility talked about for the complex is a tennis center. Now as a tennis player this issue is a bit more personal for me. This is a project that has been talked about for more than a decade and the community just hasn’t got it done. Tennis has nearly fallen off the map in this area, both in the number of juniors playing and the level of talent. There is plenty of tennis money in this town and I wish people would join together and get this project done.
Another facility idea I have for the Sanford Sports Complex is a little league baseball complex. A couple weeks ago, a little league baseball team from Rapid City made it to the Little League World Series and had the opportunity to play nationally televised games on ESPN. Wow, what an opportunity. But guess what, as of right now kids in Sioux Falls don’t have that opportunity because there is no Little League Baseball League organized in Sioux Falls. Now that’s embarrassing. Somebody needs to step up and put that together so kids in Sioux Falls have the same opportunity that kids their age around the country have.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
The Struggle in our Home
By Matt:
My wife is really struggling this political season. Like me, she is very passionate about politics. She pays attention. She educates herself. She listens well to other points of view. Like me, she is a registered Republican, but she doesn’t vote a straight ticket and I’d say she is quite a bit more moderate than I am.
But, this year, she is still very torn on how to vote for President. Here is why. My wife is incredibly passionate about reproductive rights for women and families here in South Dakota and across the country. At the same time, she doesn’t like to vote strictly on one issue.
Obviously she is voting NO on Initiated Measure 11 – the South Dakota abortion ban. She knows this is a personal matter that needs to be left up to women and their families. Government can’t know all the unique circumstances that would bring a woman to consider terminiating a pregnancy, and that’s why my wife (and I) believe that this procedure cannot be banned.
Bless my wife’s heart, she had such high hopes for who McCain would select as a VP. In her mind, it would even things out if McCain selected someone like Tom Ridge or Joe Liberman. Not that a VP really has that much pull in things such as these, but she saw it as a safe way to vote Republican. Needless to say, she’s incredibly disappointed in the choice of Palin. As a woman, my wife is excited to have another woman on the ticket, but to have such an anti-abortion rights candidate is not making it any easier on her.
I, on the other hand, am having no problems choosing how I will vote. While I am a supporter of reproductive justice, there are other issues much more important to me.
It’ll be interesting to see how this all unfolds for both my wife and the nation.
My wife is really struggling this political season. Like me, she is very passionate about politics. She pays attention. She educates herself. She listens well to other points of view. Like me, she is a registered Republican, but she doesn’t vote a straight ticket and I’d say she is quite a bit more moderate than I am.
But, this year, she is still very torn on how to vote for President. Here is why. My wife is incredibly passionate about reproductive rights for women and families here in South Dakota and across the country. At the same time, she doesn’t like to vote strictly on one issue.
Obviously she is voting NO on Initiated Measure 11 – the South Dakota abortion ban. She knows this is a personal matter that needs to be left up to women and their families. Government can’t know all the unique circumstances that would bring a woman to consider terminiating a pregnancy, and that’s why my wife (and I) believe that this procedure cannot be banned.
Bless my wife’s heart, she had such high hopes for who McCain would select as a VP. In her mind, it would even things out if McCain selected someone like Tom Ridge or Joe Liberman. Not that a VP really has that much pull in things such as these, but she saw it as a safe way to vote Republican. Needless to say, she’s incredibly disappointed in the choice of Palin. As a woman, my wife is excited to have another woman on the ticket, but to have such an anti-abortion rights candidate is not making it any easier on her.
I, on the other hand, am having no problems choosing how I will vote. While I am a supporter of reproductive justice, there are other issues much more important to me.
It’ll be interesting to see how this all unfolds for both my wife and the nation.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Who for VP?
By Mark:
Well it’s always nice to pull further ahead in an election without doing anything and that’s exactly the situation Barack Obama is in today after John McCain chose Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as his running mate. I hope I spelled her name right, I’ve never heard of her before.
Okay now if I’m not mistaken, McCain is on record many times picking on Obama’s experience or, in McCain’s opinion, his lack there of. Well Senator, you just picked a running mate whose resume highlight is being the governor of ALASKA!
So Senator McCain, in response to your repeated question on the campaign trail, I believe it goes something like ‘Who do you want answering the phone in the White House at 3 a.m.?’ Well to be honest sir, I would prefer Obama or Joe Biden, not you or Sarah Palin.
Oops, I think the McCain campaign can’t dwell on experience anymore.
Oh and to set the record straight, Joe Biden is one of the least wealthy senators in office.
Well it’s always nice to pull further ahead in an election without doing anything and that’s exactly the situation Barack Obama is in today after John McCain chose Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as his running mate. I hope I spelled her name right, I’ve never heard of her before.
Okay now if I’m not mistaken, McCain is on record many times picking on Obama’s experience or, in McCain’s opinion, his lack there of. Well Senator, you just picked a running mate whose resume highlight is being the governor of ALASKA!
So Senator McCain, in response to your repeated question on the campaign trail, I believe it goes something like ‘Who do you want answering the phone in the White House at 3 a.m.?’ Well to be honest sir, I would prefer Obama or Joe Biden, not you or Sarah Palin.
Oops, I think the McCain campaign can’t dwell on experience anymore.
Oh and to set the record straight, Joe Biden is one of the least wealthy senators in office.
Et tu McCain?
By Matt:
Throughout the DNC this week, commentators have been speculating on whom McCain’s V.P. will be and when will he announce it. Kudos to McCain for not disrupting Obama’s acceptance spectacle last night-instead he let the pyrotechnics, and the sobbing fans at the Parthenon show a key contrast to a demographic that Obama has struggled to get to bow down to him. And with today’s V.P. announcement by McCain, I’m fairly certain this demographic never will.
This demographic of which I speak is not women, although McCain’s choice certainly can’t hurt in that department. This demographic is the blue collar outdoorsmen. You know, the same demographic that Obama so effectively isolated and insulted last spring in San Francisco when he was secretly recorded saying: “these people just cling to their guns.” Governor Palin could not be more perfect to appeal to this group. She and her husband are not millionaires like Obama, Biden or even McCain. They are an upper-middle class family that enjoys hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling. Now, these hobbies alone certainly do not qualify her to be the Vice President but they sure put Obama and his continued elitist demeanor in the crosshairs of this demographic.
Throughout the DNC this week, commentators have been speculating on whom McCain’s V.P. will be and when will he announce it. Kudos to McCain for not disrupting Obama’s acceptance spectacle last night-instead he let the pyrotechnics, and the sobbing fans at the Parthenon show a key contrast to a demographic that Obama has struggled to get to bow down to him. And with today’s V.P. announcement by McCain, I’m fairly certain this demographic never will.
This demographic of which I speak is not women, although McCain’s choice certainly can’t hurt in that department. This demographic is the blue collar outdoorsmen. You know, the same demographic that Obama so effectively isolated and insulted last spring in San Francisco when he was secretly recorded saying: “these people just cling to their guns.” Governor Palin could not be more perfect to appeal to this group. She and her husband are not millionaires like Obama, Biden or even McCain. They are an upper-middle class family that enjoys hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling. Now, these hobbies alone certainly do not qualify her to be the Vice President but they sure put Obama and his continued elitist demeanor in the crosshairs of this demographic.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
More from the DNC!
By Mark:
Once again it was a great night to be an Obama/Biden supporter and a not so good night to be a McCain/Overmatched supporter Wednesday. In case you can’t tell, I’m a huge Joe Biden fan. When the Democratic Primaries began, Biden was who I wanted to get the nomination.
Bill Clinton followed up Hillary’s speech the previous night with another Clinton home run Wednesday night. It’s fair to say the Clinton’s owned the Pepsi Center – now we’ll see if Barack Obama can rock Invesco Field the way he said Hillary rocked the crowd inside the Pepsi Center.
President Clinton was asked to speak and warm up the crowd for Biden Wednesday, however Biden’s son, Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden, didn’t need any help setting the tone for his dad as he delivered an incredible introduction.
Beau Biden is an interesting story. As he mentioned last night, he won’t be able to see his dad become Vice President in November because he will be fighting in Iraq as he is a Captain with the Delaware Army National Guard. Though he won’t be in the U.S. for the election, I say Beau did a fine job helping his dad’s election efforts last night. It’s not easy to upstage Bill Clinton, but I thought Beau Biden did.
Matt I think you may agree with me on this one but one thing that constantly annoys the heck out of me watching the convention is the overabundance of media “experts” drawing their own conclusions about the night playing towards their own agenda.
People should watch the conventions, and in the coming months the debates, and draw their own conclusions, not adopt the conclusions the media “experts” come up with for you. After all, this is a Presidential Election, not American Idol, so I don’t think we need judges weighing in after the performances to sway the votes. No record contract at stake here, no this is for being the leader of the free world, so please make your own judgments rather than accepting Wolf Blitzer’s as your own.
Once again it was a great night to be an Obama/Biden supporter and a not so good night to be a McCain/Overmatched supporter Wednesday. In case you can’t tell, I’m a huge Joe Biden fan. When the Democratic Primaries began, Biden was who I wanted to get the nomination.
Bill Clinton followed up Hillary’s speech the previous night with another Clinton home run Wednesday night. It’s fair to say the Clinton’s owned the Pepsi Center – now we’ll see if Barack Obama can rock Invesco Field the way he said Hillary rocked the crowd inside the Pepsi Center.
President Clinton was asked to speak and warm up the crowd for Biden Wednesday, however Biden’s son, Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden, didn’t need any help setting the tone for his dad as he delivered an incredible introduction.
Beau Biden is an interesting story. As he mentioned last night, he won’t be able to see his dad become Vice President in November because he will be fighting in Iraq as he is a Captain with the Delaware Army National Guard. Though he won’t be in the U.S. for the election, I say Beau did a fine job helping his dad’s election efforts last night. It’s not easy to upstage Bill Clinton, but I thought Beau Biden did.
Matt I think you may agree with me on this one but one thing that constantly annoys the heck out of me watching the convention is the overabundance of media “experts” drawing their own conclusions about the night playing towards their own agenda.
People should watch the conventions, and in the coming months the debates, and draw their own conclusions, not adopt the conclusions the media “experts” come up with for you. After all, this is a Presidential Election, not American Idol, so I don’t think we need judges weighing in after the performances to sway the votes. No record contract at stake here, no this is for being the leader of the free world, so please make your own judgments rather than accepting Wolf Blitzer’s as your own.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
18 Million Cracks
By Matt:
Anyone who has a wife, mother, daughter, niece, aunt etc…should be thanking Hillary Clinton. Thanking her for almost breaking through that glass ceiling that is American politics and the run for the White House.
And, anyone who is anti-Obama should also be thanking Hillary. Thanking her for the 18 million cracks that she put in that glass ceiling and for those countless cracks she so effectively exposed in Obama’s armor. Those cracks have led to McCain ads that show Hillary saying: "McCain has a lifetime of experience and Senator Obama has a speech that he gave in 2002.” Quotes like that have even led one of her delegates to appear in commercial in support of McCain!!! THANK YOU-the G.O.P. could not have said it nor done it any better.
Most of all, I would like to thank Hillary for Bill. Even tremendous actors like Baldwin and Streisand cannot coach him to take the disgusted look off his face when he speaks about Obama! Priceless!!!! It leads me to believe that last night when she said she and Obama "are on the same team” that she was actually talking about 2012 when I’m sure she will be pushing for him to be her V.P. And if that is the case let me show my gratitude by offering some advice. In 2012 hire different acting coaches - maybe Steven Spielberg or Julia Roberts - because it’s going to take a lot of coaching to make Michelle Obama actually look happy!
Anyone who has a wife, mother, daughter, niece, aunt etc…should be thanking Hillary Clinton. Thanking her for almost breaking through that glass ceiling that is American politics and the run for the White House.
And, anyone who is anti-Obama should also be thanking Hillary. Thanking her for the 18 million cracks that she put in that glass ceiling and for those countless cracks she so effectively exposed in Obama’s armor. Those cracks have led to McCain ads that show Hillary saying: "McCain has a lifetime of experience and Senator Obama has a speech that he gave in 2002.” Quotes like that have even led one of her delegates to appear in commercial in support of McCain!!! THANK YOU-the G.O.P. could not have said it nor done it any better.
Most of all, I would like to thank Hillary for Bill. Even tremendous actors like Baldwin and Streisand cannot coach him to take the disgusted look off his face when he speaks about Obama! Priceless!!!! It leads me to believe that last night when she said she and Obama "are on the same team” that she was actually talking about 2012 when I’m sure she will be pushing for him to be her V.P. And if that is the case let me show my gratitude by offering some advice. In 2012 hire different acting coaches - maybe Steven Spielberg or Julia Roberts - because it’s going to take a lot of coaching to make Michelle Obama actually look happy!
Thoughts on the DNC
By Mark:
Well the Democratic Convention is underway in Denver and I’m happy with what we’ve seen the first two days. First, let me start by criticizing CNN’s coverage of day one of the convention.
The Democrats decided to play on emotion to kick things off and, contrary to what many CNN “experts” thought, I believe it was a great tactic. Between Teddy Kennedy taking the stage with his current condition and Michelle Obama finally opening up and talking about the Barack Obama she knows I thought it was an incredible night. You can’t beat that kind of emotion, especially Kennedy’s speech, wow, what a man.
In honor of the U.S. Open beginning this week in New York, I would like to summarize day two on Tuesday as game, set, and match. Hillary Clinton showed the most class I’ve ever seen from her in her speech that will surely put Obama/Biden back on top in the polls.
Why you may ask? Though polls this week showed a deadlock between Obama and McCain at 47%, Obama’s biggest battle seemed to be Clinton supporters that had remained loyal to their candidate rather than their party and were not yet supporting Obama. Well guess what McCain fans (I think I’m talking to you here Matt), Hillary gave Obama a giant boost in the polls last night, closing the unity gap, and I can assure you Obama has regained his lead. And the beautiful thing about it all is that the Republicans don’t have a heavy hitter like Hillary for their convention in Minneapolis next week. And you haven’t even been smacked around by Bill Clinton yet, that’s on the ticket Wednesday night.
We all know that politics during election time can be a dishonest game. But there is one key point the Democrats are playing on that is not a lie, it’s a cold hard fact. That fact is that in eight years, McCain has voted with President Bush more than 90% of the time. Ouch! In a country that is desperate for change, McCain’s stances seem to be very much the same. That’s why my favorite Hillary quote from Tuesday night was ‘No way. Now How. No McCain.’
Don’t miss Bill Clinton and Joe Biden at the convention Wednesday night!
Well the Democratic Convention is underway in Denver and I’m happy with what we’ve seen the first two days. First, let me start by criticizing CNN’s coverage of day one of the convention.
The Democrats decided to play on emotion to kick things off and, contrary to what many CNN “experts” thought, I believe it was a great tactic. Between Teddy Kennedy taking the stage with his current condition and Michelle Obama finally opening up and talking about the Barack Obama she knows I thought it was an incredible night. You can’t beat that kind of emotion, especially Kennedy’s speech, wow, what a man.
In honor of the U.S. Open beginning this week in New York, I would like to summarize day two on Tuesday as game, set, and match. Hillary Clinton showed the most class I’ve ever seen from her in her speech that will surely put Obama/Biden back on top in the polls.
Why you may ask? Though polls this week showed a deadlock between Obama and McCain at 47%, Obama’s biggest battle seemed to be Clinton supporters that had remained loyal to their candidate rather than their party and were not yet supporting Obama. Well guess what McCain fans (I think I’m talking to you here Matt), Hillary gave Obama a giant boost in the polls last night, closing the unity gap, and I can assure you Obama has regained his lead. And the beautiful thing about it all is that the Republicans don’t have a heavy hitter like Hillary for their convention in Minneapolis next week. And you haven’t even been smacked around by Bill Clinton yet, that’s on the ticket Wednesday night.
We all know that politics during election time can be a dishonest game. But there is one key point the Democrats are playing on that is not a lie, it’s a cold hard fact. That fact is that in eight years, McCain has voted with President Bush more than 90% of the time. Ouch! In a country that is desperate for change, McCain’s stances seem to be very much the same. That’s why my favorite Hillary quote from Tuesday night was ‘No way. Now How. No McCain.’
Don’t miss Bill Clinton and Joe Biden at the convention Wednesday night!
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