I wanted to ask the readers how you feel about the newest Republican Trojan horse. Sarah Palin? She is certainly pretty, charismatic, and refreshing, but is she for real? Do you believe her when she says she did not endorse the bridge to nowhere, did not accept earmarks, and did not charge tax payers for staying in her own bed? Give us your thoughts on this new phenomenon called Sarah Palin.....
Here are Senator Harkin's thoughts... tell us what you think......
Harkin blasts Palin, compares her to ‘fake’ flowers
"There’s not much substance. There’s just a lot of fluff, a lot of pictures and that kind of thing."
addthis_pub = 'iowaindependent';
By Douglas Burns 9/12/08 3:00 PM
U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, says GOP vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin is running a “People magazine” campaign short on substance. The Iowa Democrat wonders how long that can last.
In a conference call with reporters Thursday, Harkin said Palin reminded him of artificial flowers. To the eye they seem to accomplish the job, but by definition they lack realness.
This thought jumped to Harkin’s mind as he learned more about Palin, the first-term Alaska governor tabbed as a running mate by GOP presidential candidate John McCain.
“I remember walking into a hotel, kind of a fancy hotel, and I saw this big bouquet of wonderful flowers,” Harkin said. “They just looked beautiful, gorgeous. I walked up to them to, you know, smell the flowers. There wasn’t any aroma. All of a sudden I reached up and touched them and found out they were fake. From a distance it looked great. But once I got closer, it turned they weren’t real after all. I think this may happen to Governor Palin, too.”
As the pages turn on the political calendar, Palin’s going to have to get more serious, show more substance, Harkin said.
“More and more as we get into this people are going to be asking serious questions about Gov. Palin and the fact that she keeps saying things that are just not true and somehow seems to get by with it,” Harkin said.
As an example, Harkin raised one of Palin’s biggest applause lines at the GOP National Convention and on the stump: her alleged opposition to the infamous “Bridge to Nowhere” — a $400 million structure that would have connected the little town of Ketchikan, Alaska (pop. 7,500) to an airport on Gravina Island.
“The fact is Congress stopped the bridge to nowhere,” Harkin said. “It was Congress that did that. Plus she kept the money.”
The Wall Street Journal notes that Palin’s claim comes with what the newspaper calls a “serious caveat.”
“She endorsed the multimillion dollar project during her gubernatorial race in 2006,” The Wall Street Journal reports. “And while she did take part in stopping the project after it became a national scandal, she did not return the federal money. She just allocated it elsewhere.”
Harkin said he was outraged at Palin’s billing of taxpayers for more than 300 nights she spent at her own house in Alaska. Those “per diem” charges are generally regarded by public officials as being fore travel expenses — not for staying in your own home, Harkin said.
“I go to Iowa a lot,” Harkin said. “I stay in my house in Cumming. I don’t charge the Senate per diem and the government per diem when I’m staying in my house in Cumming.”
He added, “What kind of reform is that?”
Harkin said he expects the focus of the presidential contest to shift quickly back to the major issues of the day and away from Palin and the McCain campaign’s efforts at creating distractions with meaningless personality issues.
“I think we’re sort of in the silly season right now and I think because of what Rick Davis, his (McCain’s) campaign manager, said, you can see that’s what they want to do. They just want to do this personality kind of thing — sort of run a ‘People’ magazine kind of campaign, you know. There’s not much substance. There’s just a lot of fluff, a lot of pictures and that kind of thing.”
Davis just days ago said “this election is not about issues.”
“What could be more of a public-be-damned statement than that — that we can’t trust the American people to talk about issues,” Harkin said.
Harkin said the November election can be boiled down to one question:
“If you like Bush, you’ll love McCain,” Harkin said.
Here are Senator Harkin's thoughts... tell us what you think......
Harkin blasts Palin, compares her to ‘fake’ flowers
"There’s not much substance. There’s just a lot of fluff, a lot of pictures and that kind of thing."
addthis_pub = 'iowaindependent';
By Douglas Burns 9/12/08 3:00 PM
U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, says GOP vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin is running a “People magazine” campaign short on substance. The Iowa Democrat wonders how long that can last.
In a conference call with reporters Thursday, Harkin said Palin reminded him of artificial flowers. To the eye they seem to accomplish the job, but by definition they lack realness.
This thought jumped to Harkin’s mind as he learned more about Palin, the first-term Alaska governor tabbed as a running mate by GOP presidential candidate John McCain.
“I remember walking into a hotel, kind of a fancy hotel, and I saw this big bouquet of wonderful flowers,” Harkin said. “They just looked beautiful, gorgeous. I walked up to them to, you know, smell the flowers. There wasn’t any aroma. All of a sudden I reached up and touched them and found out they were fake. From a distance it looked great. But once I got closer, it turned they weren’t real after all. I think this may happen to Governor Palin, too.”
As the pages turn on the political calendar, Palin’s going to have to get more serious, show more substance, Harkin said.
“More and more as we get into this people are going to be asking serious questions about Gov. Palin and the fact that she keeps saying things that are just not true and somehow seems to get by with it,” Harkin said.
As an example, Harkin raised one of Palin’s biggest applause lines at the GOP National Convention and on the stump: her alleged opposition to the infamous “Bridge to Nowhere” — a $400 million structure that would have connected the little town of Ketchikan, Alaska (pop. 7,500) to an airport on Gravina Island.
“The fact is Congress stopped the bridge to nowhere,” Harkin said. “It was Congress that did that. Plus she kept the money.”
The Wall Street Journal notes that Palin’s claim comes with what the newspaper calls a “serious caveat.”
“She endorsed the multimillion dollar project during her gubernatorial race in 2006,” The Wall Street Journal reports. “And while she did take part in stopping the project after it became a national scandal, she did not return the federal money. She just allocated it elsewhere.”
Harkin said he was outraged at Palin’s billing of taxpayers for more than 300 nights she spent at her own house in Alaska. Those “per diem” charges are generally regarded by public officials as being fore travel expenses — not for staying in your own home, Harkin said.
“I go to Iowa a lot,” Harkin said. “I stay in my house in Cumming. I don’t charge the Senate per diem and the government per diem when I’m staying in my house in Cumming.”
He added, “What kind of reform is that?”
Harkin said he expects the focus of the presidential contest to shift quickly back to the major issues of the day and away from Palin and the McCain campaign’s efforts at creating distractions with meaningless personality issues.
“I think we’re sort of in the silly season right now and I think because of what Rick Davis, his (McCain’s) campaign manager, said, you can see that’s what they want to do. They just want to do this personality kind of thing — sort of run a ‘People’ magazine kind of campaign, you know. There’s not much substance. There’s just a lot of fluff, a lot of pictures and that kind of thing.”
Davis just days ago said “this election is not about issues.”
“What could be more of a public-be-damned statement than that — that we can’t trust the American people to talk about issues,” Harkin said.
Harkin said the November election can be boiled down to one question:
“If you like Bush, you’ll love McCain,” Harkin said.
70 comments:
Hi Sara, no I do not beleive a word she says. And I do not beleive she gave birth in the wilderness without a hospital at the age of 44 either. It's rather complicated to give birth at that age without modern medical help. Also the earmarks, she is lying and the yes she did get paid to sleep in her own bed. She charged the state of Alaska. She is not the sweet innocent being she wants people to beleive. She is a ficticious, lying opportunist! I pray that people will find out who she really is before the election in Nov.....
I think both she and mccaean (sp?) are both liars! They are doing everything they can to throw this election off the issues and on to nonsense. Talking about obama called her a pig in lipstick, and obama is jealous of her newfound popularity and other nonsense. I am totally disgusted at how the republicans esp mccaean will lie cheat and steal to win this election. And she is right with him. She said she did not receive earmarks as the Govenor of Alaska, and that's a total lie! Check facts.com She said she did not endorse the bridge to nowhere , anotyher lie. Mccaen placed a lying ad that obama wanted to give sex education to 5 year olds, when he knew good and well he only wanted to initiate a good touch bad touch class so that small children would be able to fight being a victem of child predators before the abuse started! And it was only to be with strict parental permission and trained-certified teachers! They just lie like it's going out of style. And these are the people who claim to be christians!!! It's outrageous how they lie! And I watched the segment where they accused him of calling her a pig in lipstick, he was not even referring to her! He was talking about how they ofuscate the issues! I'm so sick of lying republicans I could throw up! If America votes for them, then they will get what they deserve....
Girl, so glad you posted this! I want to know how the hell people think they are going to bring in someone they know absolutely nothing about and make her VP! That's an excercize in crazy! Nobody even knows who the hell she is! Obama had to go through 19 months of scutiny, hard campagning, questions, back ground checks etc. She could have never survived all he's been through, and then to bring a pretty woman in and think that they are going to pull the wool over America and sneak into the white house before anybody even knows what's going on !!! I'm too upset to even talk about it. She has not had to proove a damn thing. She has not gone through jack sh*t! She just came in and we all know America wont' say anything too bad about her because she's a white woman, so she can lie without being called a liar. And be a hypocrite without being called one etc. It's disgusting!! I'm doing everything in my power to tell people to wake up! This woman is a fake! and everybody needs to see it before it's too late!
She is a horrible woman!
Dangerous - but effective so far. She appeals to the folks who would rather vote for someone they like or agree with rather than a candidate that requires critical thinking. She and her supporters want it both ways - a self proclaimed 'pit bull with lipstick' but give her easy questions in interviews. Her supporters want Charles Gibson to give her softball questions cause her handlers did not school her on the Bush plan. This is not a popularity contest or a beauty pagent - it is a job interview for the second highest and possibly first highest office in the land. Asking and answering hard questions is mandatory - the stakes are too high not to. Any intelligent person knows this. Critical thinking is crucial to the position being applied for. Her demonstrated decision style and critical thinking ability do not say much for her. Actions and accomplishments and a demonstrated track record matter and speak louder than words. Her words are lies and her actions do not speak well of her.
V/r
Clarice
Please why do you have to bring up politics in the blog! What does McCain and Sarah Palin have to do with Black interests!
I don't like Obama or his wife but I don't include them in an interracial love blog what does McCain or Obama have to do with me and my future?
And I actually I am voting for McCain and Sarah Palin not for Obama and his cultic persona!
What do you have against Palin and McCain oh I know they're white forget what policies they stand for it's their race, damn and I thought interracial meant seeing beyond the prism of skincolor guess I was wrong!
Oh exit question why are you voting for Obama and Joe Biden?
Name one policy you agree with!
That because I'm black doesn't mean I have to vote for Obama there are other blackfolks I'd vote for other Obama.
His policies and values are radically different from mine so why support a man who I have nothing in common with other than skincolor!
It costs the state of Alaska $356,500.00 annually to maintain and staff the Governor’s Mansion in Juneau. That is where the governor of Alaska is supposed to live while serving their term. The State Capitol, and legislature, is about a hundred yards down the street. Governor Palin prefers to live at home in Wasilla, over 600 miles away, and collect per diem, while the state continues to pour the money into the empty Governor’s Mansion in Juneau. That is not efficient or ethical.
http://www.gov.state.ak.us/omb/09_omb/budget/Gov/comp9.pdf
Thanks for this one, she is a nice looking female politician .......all who say Obama has no expirence [a term reserve for black people who they don't want to hire]should stay consistent and relize that she could be the president with all the health problems ,age,and forgetfullness of Mccain.
It's funny that MCcain chooses beauty queens when it comes to women ,his wife is a ex model beauty queen and now Pallin .It's understandable to want a beauty queen as wife ,but as vice or possibly president .He left his first wife after she was disfigured in an accident,talk about shallow.
It's been reported that Pallin has made many racist comments and could be mad that she lost the Miss Alaska to Maryline Blackburn a gorgeous BLACK WOMAN!! hopefully this time she'll lose to a Black man, YES WE CAN!!! this is a link to the black woman she lost to picture,she supports Obama. Bougie
http://www.zimbio.com/Maryline+Blackburn/articles/4/WINNER+1984+MISS+ALASKA+CONTEST+NOT+SARAH
It's as if politicans don't know we have the Internet, wayback machine, and databases. They lie as if they don't get that people can use computers to find things out, but since McCain admitted not knowing ow to use a computer, perhaps this is true. Do they think we'll stand by a woman who made rape victims pay for evidence kits? Before anyone says "they charged their insurance," I didn't have insurance for 4 years, and the US is notorious for no health care.
These people are nuts! Who flied when they're in premature labor with a sick baby? Who marries their teens off to jobless teens with no marketable skills? Who glosses over dumping injured wife #1 for a newer model? I read AARP magazine. There were 11 issues and McCain wouldn't select an answer for any of them! Obama had better be elected, else I'm becoming a Canadian mail-order bride.
That's fine lola, but I think it's important to remember that this is MY blog! If you don't want politics in YOUR blog that's fine. As I have said before. I will speak on ANY issue I deem necessary. And I believe this one is-enough said.
PS. And if it was offensive to you, then why bother to comment? Just come back when something more palatable to you comes along....
Nobody on here said that we should vote for Obama because we are black, so now you are making stuff up lola! The real reason we should vote for Obama is because the Republican agenda would call for the rich getting more and more tax cuts to the detriment, and detruction of the middle class. In case anyone is ignorant to this fact, most Americans are not rich! Also, Mccain has admitted this whenever he is forced into a corner, otherwise he simply sidesteps issues, and lies... Typical behavior for him and his running mate. I'm not voting for Obama because he's black. I could care less about that. I'm voting for him because he's the only choice! I admit I did not vote last election, because there was no choice. I did not like either candidate. This time was great because it was either Obama or it would have been Hilary. And I knew either one of them would do a great job! Love the post Sara-thanks. And I think we should talk about everything that will have an impact on our lives here. Not just men! Great Post!
It's crazy to me that some people think this woman can walk on water when in truth she is a liar, and a verilent racist! This is what she said in regards to not hiring blacks on her staff, and you can check the link yourself....This is a partial statement by the AA Historical Society of Anchorage....
___________________________________
My other opinion is why would an individual who, to my knowledge, has not hired any African-Americans on her gubernatorial staff, insist so passionately on being on a television show owned and operated by an African American, Oprah Winfrey?
While meeting with black leaders concerning the absence of any African-Americans on her staff, Gov. Palin responded that she doesn’t have to hire any blacks and was not intending to hire any. What kind of attitude is this toward African-American for who may be the first Vice-President of the United States?
I understand Oprah did have Senator Obama on her show a few times and was the main person raising funds for him “before” the presidency race was in full swing. However, the key point here is that it is Oprah’s prerogative not be used as a pawn to tilt the vote one way or another. Oprah has stated repeatedly that she wasn’t going to have one side or the other on her show by choice. I thought that was what the Civil Rights Movement was all about, a persons right to make their own choices. I guess this isn’t a Democracy at all anymore.”
Gwendolyn Alexander, President
African American Historical Society of Alaska, Inc.
Alaska Juneteenth Celebration
P. O. Box 143105
Anchorage AK 99514
907 884-6860 email: aahsa@gci.net
www.juneteenthalaska.com www.entertainmealaska.com/aahsa
http://straighttalkexpresswatch.wordpress.com/2008/09/1...
Lola,
I think this is a pertinent topic that effects BW. Palin was chosen as an empty gesture. She is a woman, but she stands to set all women back by God knows how many decades and that is frightening to me.
Losing ground on hard won women's rights is no small matter. Not to mention the economy and foreign policy issues.
I think she is a pathological liar and is in no way fit to be in the position she is aimed to assume. So much so that I signed the petition below.
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/NO-Sarah-Palin
TC I feel you on the Canadian mail order bride thing. LOL
I thank God I have the passport and I am getting the education finished.
I won't hesitate to jump ship when the cake hits the fan.
Lola, I just reread your comments in their entirety. How dare you accuse me of not liking Mccain because of race! I don't dislike anyone based on race! I think I have said before I have about 5 different races in my family, and love them all! You really have alot of nerve to say something like that! I had not even made up my mind about this woman, I was just trying to figure her out because alot of her statements did not add up! But now I have made up my mind about her. And basically I think your candidate is a liar and a fraud! And if you want to accuse someone of being a racist, you better look to your girl, and what she had to say about why she will never have black people on her staff! If she is not a racist, I don't know who is. I have absolutely no problem with people disagreeing with me. But to call me a racist is a horse of a whole different color. I have nothing else to say to you at present....
I'm a corporate exec, and I know that if I had taken travel expenses to sleep in one of my own homes (although I only have 1) I would be fired! I don't understand how she can get away with the things that she does. She also harrassed her brother in law for wanting a divorce from her sister so badly, a judge had to issue an order for her to cease and desist. Then when her B.I.L. 's boss would not fire him, she had HIM fired. Thus using her public office as a weapon to settle personal differences. This is why she is under investigation now. The fake firing thing has come backt to bite her on the behind. Basically this woman is dangerous! Everyone needs to be aware of her sneaky, lying ways and take heed-VOTE FOR OBAMA! Or we are in trouble! If she got VP, she would probably finish MCcain off so she could be pres. and then all hell would break loose. She is already talking about how she thinks we should be at war with Russia over the allies.... I pray she does not get in-I'm scared. I can feel in my bones she is up to no good......
"and what she had to say about why she will never have black people on her staff! If she is not a racist, I don't know who is."
Sara,
Not just that, but there are articles floating around about her and her attitudes towards the aboriginals of Alaska. It is not pretty.
Now as soon as I heard Palin was against abortion even in the circumstances of rape and incest - she was automatically on my no list.
Yes I am a Christian but as a BW I also know the other trials we endure. I don't think anyone has the right to tell me about my womb. Now I am not going to turn this into a Pro ___ debate, but that was my reason for not liking her immediately.(Then when I heard she charged the victims for rape kits - I shook my head)
Time is also moving forward where yes I am hearing more and more crap pulled and she is looking like well as they mentioned - FAKE. What people are NOT thinking about is, should the Rep's win, she has more a chance of running the country than any other VP-elect in history.
She is a true candidate, all lies and deliver nothing to help the people.
This hasn't been a democracy for years, it [the government] has been a corporation. And the reason we want 'Democracy' in other countries is to be able to do better business with them. Which for the US means lying to get in their pants, getting what we want and leaving them lost and crying. Palin is no exception, she'll even go so far as to use brute force.
Slim Lola:
His policies and values are radically different from mine so why support a man who I have nothing in common with other than skincolor!
Do you mind citing what those policies and values are?
I'm not an Obama fan. I voted for Hilary in the primary. I was on the fence about McCain and Obama but now, I'm voting Obama because of Sarah Palin.
I consider myself a conservative christian. I tend to vote Republican. I'm pro-life in every way, including against the death penalty. But I'm also pro-common sense. Technically, Sarah Palin should be repping me but I'm sorry, excuse my french, I'll be damned if I vote for her. She's making comments about how war in Iraq/Iran is holy war (WTF?), making overtures towards Russia. She's a dingbat who shouldn't be governor of a state, let alone a VP candidate. Say what you want to say about Obama's experience, he did manage to choose a VP (Biden) who has extensive experience.
Sarah Palin was chosen to appeal to the christian wing of the Republican Party and so far, she's working out. But, I sincerely doubt if it'll work because the christian right is fracturing too. I just hope Obama wins.
She's a dingbat who shouldn't be governor of a state, let alone a VP candidate.
As soon as her nomination was revealed, the first thing she asked was "What exactly does a vice-president do?" I'm sorry but a candidate that didn't get vetted on the same level as Obama (some folks are STILL claiming they don't know know who/what he stands for) gets no love, no support and NO VOTE from me.
Breaking news from NY Times today:
Palin- Vendedettas, Censorship, Cronyism, Secrecy and Lying:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/
matt damon pretty much sums up how i feel about her.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6urw_PWHYk
slim_lola you have the right to choose whoever you want as president.but it seems to me your on a guilt trip. learn more about your future vp candidate. we've certainly learned about ours.
I wasn't to keen on this presidential election. I was confused on who I was going to vote for, but now I know... Obama. I've never really got into to politicians personally lives. but Palin has too much on her plate to be Vice President. She has no real experience. The governer of Alaska. Not a lot of people live in Alaska! She has too many kids. Instead of trying to be Vice Presidentmshe should've watched her daughter... I'm not my brother's keeper, but come on!. No real good hard trying parent has their kid get pregnant as a teenager. I know teens can be dumb. But they're kids. My imput.
OFF TOPIC:
There was a post Sara made about having two friends Lisa and Janet and Lisa's problems. I posted a comment and the whole post dissapeared. I'm just confused.
Hi Pikacute, go down to the last archive (below pictures) and click on the last one. The story is there. Thanks for your comments....
@Lola & All
It is expedient to discuss all aspects of life...Saying a Black woman should stay inside a "box" further adds to a one-dimensional stereotype...Now I am a firm believer that on must explore matters outside their own homes, neighborhoods, states and countries...Less we become like many ignorant Americans and cannot locate Iraq on a map, let known identify Sunis & Shiites...Caution against becoming as small as the parties which discriminate and mistreat Black women....
BTW...YouTube has been on a Tina Fey as Sarah Palin censorship spress...So catch this before it gets removed:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8WkCfkQ4DI
One more thing about Palin and the Republican Party in general:
I have a slight problem- no I lied...I have a BIG problem with their lack of regards to the problems that exists for folks that either look like me or for folks that have the same issues as I have.
I'm so tired of Palin saying that she's a "hockey mom" and her political platform targeting "hockey/soccer moms". My question to her and her staunch supporters is: what about those moms who can't afford to send their kids to soccer or any other extra activites outside of school? Let's also not forget those parents who live in areas that don't have organized sports due to a lack of funding in their communities.
Lola your blanket assumption that people are voting for Obama because of race is as unfair and unfounded as the presumption people expect you to act that way based on color or gender.
Fact is this woman is being considered for a job. She does not appear to have the critical thinking and discernment abilities required for the job. Granted only a person who has been president or vice president has the direct hands on experience - however there is a skill set that is required for this job. Those skills are critical thinking, willingness to listen and prepare, knowledge of the world and issues and a willingness to learn and the ability to see and comprehend issues and perspectives different from their own. The McCain Palin ticket lacks all of these skills. They are not willing to see any view of the world but their own, it is insular and myopic. She failed to prepare for an interview and learn her party platform - if she uses that same critical lack of preparation in negotiations with world leaders she is finished. She fails to grasp that America is a part of a global community and as such will have to learn to work and play with others. McCain picked her on a gut reaction without critical thinking. People need to pay attention to this and us critical thinking to evaluate this person who could potentially be a heart beat away. For too long women have been like Sarah Palin and just trusted men and not acted in their own interests and not been served by it. It is everyone's responsibility to evaluate critically and at least choose the candidate that will do the least amount of harm to those things that matter to you and hopefully do some good.
Thank you Sara for encouraging this discussion and critical thinking.
V/r
Clarice
One of my concerns is that Sarah Palin is considering war against Russia...And she also refers to war in Iran/Iraq as a "holy war"...Palin nor McCain seem interested in getting us out of this quagmire in the Middle East...Personally, Ron Paul was my first choice...Obama isn't perfect, however I do not see myself voting for Bush Jr...
See: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/arianna-huffington/sunday-roundup_b_126218.html
http://barcelona.indymedia.org/newswire/display/350520/index.php
I apologize to the person who's comment I had to delete. But that is NOT my candidate and he will NOT be endorsed on my blog! You are welcome to repost without the banner....
I'll take a stab at Zabeth's questions. I don't like Palin because she wants to maintain the Bush Administration's way in terms of foreign policy, which is my way or the highway. I don't feel comfortable so far from what I've seen of Palin to think she possesses the competence to lead this country if anything was to happen to McCain.
I certainly don't have issue with her because she's a white woman, and frankly, I think that question was the only offensive question asked, as if all the posters on here have no sense and have blind dislike/hatred for white women and this is the reason they're not voting for Palin. Is the bw demographic not the demographic who nearly supported the white Hillary Clinton blindly as well her husband for years?
The majority of blacks in the last few decades have voted with the Democratic Party despite having Republican beginnings. This is a major reason why they're not voting for Palin and for the policies she stands for.
The United States is in terrible shape economically. I don't feel the Bush Administration has made this country anymore secure and I don't appreciate being lied to that this country's economy is not all that bad. Look what happened to Lehman Brothers this past week and Wall Street in general. An economic tsunami is coming and this administration is lying through its teeth that it's not really happening. I don't see McCain nor Palin as critical thinkers to help this country move forward for the better.
I don't think Palin standing in the way of Obama becoming the first black president is a major factor why some black women dislike Palin. I also don't see what's the big deal even if they do hate her. A lot of people hate Obama and his wife, and she's not even running for office! Look at the hatred Hillary Clinton has always battled in her political career, and she's still standing, so why should Palin get any special treatment? I'm really tired of this don't pick on Palin mentality. Everyone else has been picked on, it's the nature of politics.
I always found the double standard of the Republican Party disgusting. They go for the jugular (not necessarily a bad thing) but when others take a page out of their book they go crying and moaning.
...Agreed! It's time for Palin to put on her big girl panties.
"I'm really tired of this don't pick on Palin mentality. Everyone else has been picked on, it's the nature of politics."
Hey Sara...You should have left the McCain/Palin banner up for a visual aide:
http://redstick.files.wordpress.com/2008/03/trainwreck2.jpg
I'm not a Republican, have never voted Republican, and don't plan to in the upcoming election. However, I think the choice of Sarah Palin as VP running mate is brilliant, inspired even.
As usual, the Republicans are busy taking advantage of the Democratic party's weaknesses. With no white male contender, the battle between Obama and Clinton exposed race, gender and class divides. Obama's speech on race in America, the backbiting over his Muslim name/his religion, Hilary's rallying cry to women, her accusations of sexism, and finally her last minute desperate appeal to 'white working class' voters all provided Republicans a signpost for the VP candidate.
These issues aren't new or original but they matter to many Americans. Just my opinion, but it is no accident that Sarah Palin satisfies/placates voter concerns around ALL these issues. Also notice how they have positioned her as a working mom as opposed to a hard-bitten career woman, as many people see Hilary Clinton.
I truly believe she was chosen for show rather than any experience or skills. Her inexperience is probably a bonus.
It will be interesting to see how many people fall for the okie-doke this upcoming election.
It is also interesting that she is Governer of Alaska. One of the few mostly untapped oil resources in this country.
hi Zabeth, you can attach any images you want on any blog that permits it! I never said or implied that you tried to tell me what to do. I'm just letting you know that I will not be posting anything with another candidate on MY BLOG! I would never disrespect your blog by trying to post my candidate and I expect the same respect from you! That is my last word on the subject. I am not going to argue, I am simply not going to post it....
I'm going to comment as briefly as I can, as tempers can become inflamed quickly. I know that mine can...but as usual, in this forum, I give the benefit of the doubt. Keep in mind, that I am really really holding back here.
I am greatly bothered by this Palin woman....and the Republican Party in general. They seem intent on returning to a former time in history. In life, we cannot go back, we can only move forward. This woman is extremely sinister to me...souless almost, frightening, speaking in a way that is so calculated and planned.. we have not seen the real woman here..not at all.
Now as for McCain..he is NOT a great specimen either..and I wonder about the mental state of one who was held captive by an "enemy agent" for 5 years. While it was not his fault obviously, I think people should really take that into consideration...is that the person whose finger you want on the trigger? One who wakes up at night screaming, in all probability?
The choice for this election is obvious...and I hope the American people for once, will not tolerate bring toyed with by a party DESPERATE to stay in power and enrich themselves EVEN MORE, and damn everyone else.
I am a regular poster here..but I don't desire to engage in a war of words with anyone on this blog..so I will post anonymously.
Hi Zabeth,
I just wanted to say that I have mad love for you. I know that politics tends to really polarize people and I don't want that to happen here.
Re: all the questions you asked- my answer is no to all of them.
I am (gulp) pro choice. :) I don't want to see that repealed. I am not a fan of abstinence only sex education. I think it is very appropriate for certain age groups, but once you get to certain age groups it doesn't work.
I am for pay equity.
I am for better education and assistance with higher education.
I would like to see a shift away from deficit spending and a strong dollar.
I want more protectionist strategies where we take care of home 1st.
I think more needs to be done in regards to global warming as well as the FDA.
I am pro stem cell research.
I think that what happened in Iraq and Afghanistan is a travesty and must end now.
I don't think that the Rep party decreases gov't. I think that gov't has grown larger since the reps have been in office.
I have always wondered what was the purpose of Homeland Security. I thought we already had the FBI, CIA etc to deal with those issues.
I want my civil liberties restored.
These are just a few reasons why the Rep party is not appealing to me.
Hi Sara, I am an avid reader of your blog, and I think its one of the best.
This particular entry you wrote caught my attention because its very political, which is surprising.
I couldn't help but comment, and I think I'll be commenting on more of your entries since I've already started ha ha!
I respect Palin on the basis that she's the first woman to run for vice president. There are some things I stand with her on, and there are others that I don't.
When it comes to politics I'm pretty independent. There are many republicans that I like (Palin being one of them), and there are many that I don't like.
It's the same thing with the Democrats.
Personally, I believe that if McCain becomes president, at least it will be a very interesting presidency since he has a woman as vice president.
Perhaps this may be a strategic play by the republicans (its so obvious, it seems that this whole election is rigged somehow) but I have to admit, Palin is an interesting pick.
As for her experience...I'd say Obama doesn't have that much experience either, and he's done some pretty questionable things as well, and so has Palin.
So, therefore...I think its wise not to pick sides (for me anyways). I don't like Obama's choice for vice president, but I don't necessarily like McCain either.
We'll just see how everything turns out during the election.
Mercedes--
Hi Anon and Aphrodite, those were very interesting entries. I want it to be known I have mad-love for Zabeth as well. She knows that. I guess I understand now why my mother always used to say don't talk politics with friends, as it can def. become a polarizing issue. However, I'm not one to step away from controversy. But I certainly respect everyone's opinion whether I agree or not. Anon. I def. think if they win it will be interesting since we've never had a woman go that far up to the white house (except as first lady) but I sincerely hope they do not win, because I just cannot fathom losing the basic rights we women have struggled for for, the longest. And yes, I am including abortion among those rights. I think abortion is horrible and I hate that some sisters (regardless of color) have to make that choice. But I want the choice to be mine and yours and every other woman's I just don't feel like anyone should be forced to have unwanted babies. None of us have a heaven or hell to put anyone in. And none of us are going to help people take care of those babies. I know this is going to upset many people but (when has that ever stopped me right) but I feel like it has got to be that woman's choice-not the President's.... I could never vote for such recessed thinking.
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My opinion of her: SNAKE under the green grass. She isnt really what she 'presents' herself as.
Gloryus said...
My opinion of her: SNAKE under the green grass. She isnt really what she 'presents' herself as.
__________________
My opinion also of McCain.
Hi Sara, and everyone else on here!
I respect everyone’s right to have their individual views, as for the abortion issue that’s one of the places where I do stand with her on. I personally believe that some restrictions should be taken on abortion…such as no abortions after six months of pregnancy but I do believe that particular issue should be the mother’s (and father’s if he is present and isn’t threatening the woman’s life) decision if its going to be legal (though I believe any form of abortion is wrong).
It’s a social issue supported by the government because it “saves” the government money (if it didn’t then it wouldn’t be legal!). Therefore it should be society who makes the decision, but I believe that a president or any other politician has the right to voice his or her opinion concerning the matter but not necessarily put laws into our country simply because “I want it this way so that’s how its going to be” unless the citizens of our country demand it. We are supposed to be the real power of government in this country.
Naturally, if McCain gets into office I suppose he would try to do something to put restrictions on abortions…that’s a typical republican agenda (for most, not all). As for Obama…even though he has said he supports a woman’s right for abortion, I really don’t believe him at all. I think he’s acting.
Now, I love children, and I believe that Americans should and could do more to help mothers with “unplanned” pregnancies as an option to abortion but we are being sidetracked by so many other issues like terrorism, and international events that we are barely keeping track of our own country.
Now, if Palin or McCain want to help prevent abortions and its such a big deal to them, then they should be promoting all sorts of options, and programs that would actually help to prevent the desire to have abortions (because they are ways to do so that are healthy). Simply outlawing it isn’t really going to help much except cause more political unrest, and dissension.
What I really want to know about Palin is what she plans to do with Russia, China, and the Middle East…
I mean let’s face reality for a second. If any Muslim agenda takes over our country, there won’t be any laws supporting abortion, or any laws supporting what most Americans and freedom loving people take for granted period! What we should be stressing to Obama, and McCain is…what are you going to do about the American PROTECTION!
All the other issues can be taken care of later because if we don’t take care of this now, we won’t be able to care of our own social issues later!
--Mercedes
I'm glad you asked that question.
His selection of Palin made me feel as if he took America to a new low. Dummying down education, community service any other educated qualified woman who would have been a better selection. I am sick that this woman is so close to running this country, just sick.
I would like to know what deal they made with her. I just hope she was a one-hit-speech-wonder and will go away after the election. I doubt it since she has been deemed their rising star.
I could not agree with Mercedes more. There should definitely be restrictions on abortions. I don't beleive in abortion but I know people will die trying to have them just like they did in the old days if they outlaw them. But I don't think people realize with this woman abortion is the least of our trouble! She is very sneaky, and coniving! She all but said she wants to go to war with Russia! We are practically broke, and she is talking about another war! She also lies constantly, and John McCain does too. He knows he's going to die soon, so he does not care what kind of mess he leaves behind. On the view, the lady asked him why he lied about Obama teaching sex ed to little kids, and he kept saying thier not lies, and changing the subject. He could not be pinned down on ONE issue! Then his wife comes out, and was asked how many houses they owned (keep in mind, the dumb ww, on the view said Cindy McCain had nothing to hide) Well, she said "I don't think that has anything to do with this election That totally sounds like something to hide to me!! They were asking him how in touch with the common people he was, so it was germaine to the discussion but neither one of them would answer....This is really scary, when you think about how much power these fools could soon have....
I think that the focus shouldn't even be on Sarah Palin (except to expose her deficiencies). I think sochol is right when she says that Palin was a brilliant choice by the Repubs. She is such a distraction it is not even funny. Forget her politics, she serves her purpose! They first tried to brand her as a good alternative to Hillary, until they realized her politics vastly differ, and that was quickly shoved under the rug. The repubs are saying a lot of nothing, and not standing firm on the issues. They are playing serious mind games with their own party, by promoting Palin as a no nonsense WOMAN (LMAO), distancing themselves from the Commander and Chief (again LOL), piggybacking on the Obama "Change" campaign (do they think I'm stupid), and playing victim to the very real questions on BOTH McCain and Palin's ability to operate in the Presidency.
Our country is literally crumbling around us, under the poor politics of the party who should have been best equipped to turn this around. Instead that party sold-out the entire country...and now that same party is campaigning to turn it all around on the same platform of misdirection and ignoring the REAL issues, that got us in this mess in the first place. And they want us to trust them? I mean how can you claim to fight against the injustice of other countries religious tyranny over their land, while appealing to that same religious tyranny of your own country. A country whose official doctrine is separation of church and state. I'm sorry, but abortion rights is really not high on my list of issues, right now. I dont want a Presidential party who is prepared to go in and wreak havoc on Congress. No, right now, I want a party who is going to step in and bring direction to chaos, focus to rebuilding our country, and perspective to redefining ourselves to maintain (or regain) dominance in a growing global market. The shennigans of Sarah Palin as Governor in Alaska, is not exactly what I see as useful skills right now.
I will say, however, I dont think Obama has the right experience to turn this country around. I feel, that will depend on the cabinet he appoints. I also think that is why there is such a huge turn out for the Repubs. People just believe the Repubs understand the economy much better, and everyone is feeling that burn and wants to see change. The Dems just dont represent strength in regards to economic reform, and they are not doing enough to change that perspective.
@Zabeth - I am sooo sorry I missed your comments!! I always appreciate the exchange, and different perspective.
That's fine lola, but I think it's important to remember that this is MY blog! If you don't want politics in YOUR blog that's fine. As I have said before. I will speak on ANY issue I deem necessary. And I believe this one is-enough said.
PS. And if it was offensive to you, then why bother to comment? Just come back when something more palatable to you comes along....
Go ahead Sara, tell her girl!!!I could not believe what I was just reading!!!
I actually like Sarah, and I hope she wins. Then we will have a woman president because McCain will not survive! I don't want to be jumped on so I will not give my name. But she is really attractive and she always looks so nice and smiling... She'll look great in the white house....
Wow. Look great in the white house?? Wow.
We are not in a recession. The fundamentals of the country are strong and yet the DOW dropped 500 points today and there are several banks on a watch list because they will soon fold.
Advisors are telling people to stay away from financials (as they are too volatile for investing) and several economists have suggested that it wouldn't take much to put us into a depression.
Anon. Please tell me you want Sarah because you believe in her policies, and ideologies. Or that she inspires you because she is a christian. Or that you believe she can handle the highest job in the land and has proven as far as you are concerned, that she has this capability. But please do not tell me that you want her because she is CUTE!!! In case you have not noticed we are talking about the VP of the United States -not Ms Alaska!
*In deep thought*
I wonder if Palin would still be revered if she was a black women with 5 kids and a pregant teenaged daughter....
Anon---cute is for clothing, not politicians! What matters is that people know what they're doing, not that they're attractive or you want to drink with them. They made this a big deal in past elections, but our lives would look like crap if we all depended on our drinking buddies.
Selena,
You know the answer to that. :)
If people paid attention to more than how 'cute' or personable a candidate is and did some critical analysis on the issues it would be clear there is nothing cute about McCain's plan. This is why it is crucial to make wise choices in terms of a mate and in terms of a president. Vetting is not just for dates. Do some homework. Check out the column in the NYT by Bob Herbert. Follow the links and see how cute things will get if the voters are blindsided by cute!Then do the research and make up your own mind as to what is in the best interest of you and yours. Here is an excerpt and the link:
"...the McCain health plan would treat employer-paid health benefits as income that employees would have to pay taxes on.“It means your employer is going to have to make an estimate on how much the employer is paying for health insurance on your behalf, and you are going to have to pay taxes on that money,” said Sherry Glied, an economist who chairs the Department of Health Policy and Management at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health.
Ms. Glied is one of the four scholars who have just completed an independent joint study of the plan. Their findings are being published on the Web site of the policy journal, Health Affairs.According to the study: “The McCain plan will force millions of Americans into the weakest segment of the private insurance system — the nongroup market — where cost-sharing is high, covered services are limited and people will lose access to benefits they have now.”
The net effect of the plan, the study said, “almost certainly will be to increase family costs for medical care.” Under the McCain plan (now the McCain-Palin plan) employees who continue to receive employer-paid health benefits would look at their pay stubs each week or each month and find that additional money had been withheld to cover the taxes on the value of their benefits.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/16/opinion/16herbert.html
The study is available on the web - read it and decide for yourself.
V/r
Clarice
Thanks clarice, that's really scary especially considering that I heard the average plan is worth over 20.000! If I heard wrong, somebody correct me. But I'm sure that's the number I heard. And adding that extra 20 to the average income statement to be filed, could easily spell disaster to the average American family. Especially if they are already struggling....
Ah, I agree. So far the republican idea of health care (money wise) is way out of sensible. That's what I DON'T like about the republican party as a whole.
I love the fact that most of them support morals, and all that good stuff but they expect us to pay an arm and a leg for it.
That's the frustrating part.
As far as values are concerned, I do favor the republican party...but their money issues...
I mean, where do you draw the line?
I'm sure they're are A LOT of people who would love to vote republican, but they might not be able to afford it, ha ha!
That's why so many root for the Democrats.
It's so frustrating!
---Mercedes
Anon---cute is for clothing, not politicians! What matters is that people know what they're doing, not that they're attractive or you want to drink with them. They made this a big deal in past elections, but our lives would look like crap if we all depended on our drinking buddies.
I think the anon was being sarcastic.
I don't know if this has been corrected already, but Geraldine Ferraro (not Sarah Palin) was the first woman who ran for VP. She was VP on the Mondale/Ferraro Democratic ticket.
I don't know if this has been corrected already, but Geraldine Ferraro (not Sarah Palin) was the first woman who ran for VP. She was VP on the Mondale/Ferraro Democratic ticket.
Palin is the first hockey mom running for VP. Give credit to where's credit due.
You two are so right!
I remember my mom talking about Mondale and Ferraro.
She is not the brightest bulb....
The Republican party was in controlled of both houses for the majority of Bush's administration and look at the MESS these people are about to leave for the next President and his administration.
Former President Clinton may not have been perfect but, he did leave the country in the black. Within a few months of Bush taking office the good ol' U.S. of A. was in the RED. I was at home when I heard the country was in the red and I thought to myself. Bush has only been in office a few shorts months and we are in the RED? That was cetainly signs of things to come. This guy cannot leave office soon enough. He was one of the dumbest presidents this country ever had. Even people in foreign countries know Bush is not a bright man. Who says money cannot buy you a Governorship and the Presidency? Our government is continually bailing out another Republican financial mess one after another. Being a hurricane surviver(I am still trying to keep my financial head above water) how about forgiving my Sallie Mae student loans? FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, STOP SELLING AMERICA OUT.
a.f.
I could not agree more AF.
My brother in law has so much interest on his student loans, that he has been paying on them for over 10 years, and is still not done! Bush to me was one of the worst Pres. ever. And I have a strong feeling McCain would be more of the same. Although, morally, I do agree with much of their principals. I hate the way they drive the middle class into the ground, catering to the very rich....
Sara...they are the rich.
Sara, I wasn't going to comment; however, I believe some of those extremely rich corporate types are simply using the middle class value ideas. If these people believed in those ideas this country's financial position may be a better one.
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