Obama's campaign responded to Hillary's campaign attacks today, after Clinton Campaign press person Howard Wolfson said that Obama was insulting the American public by calling Clinton's Ad (see below) "fearmongering". (In the ad, the voice over says that it's 3 am and there's a phone in the white house ringing - who do you want to answer it?).
When asked if Clinton should drop out of the race after the Texas and Ohio Primaries, an Obama spokesperson said "I would encourage you on March 5 to call Sen. Clinton at 3 a.m. and ask that question"
For Obama's Part, he's released this ad:
Friday, February 29, 2008
Clinton's New Ad
Clinton has a new ad out that is similar to a "Who's going to pick up the Red Phone" ad used by Walter Mondale in 1984 when a surging Gary Hart almost knocked off Mondale's 'inevitable" campaign... hmmm... gee, I don't see any similarities to the current campaign...
Monday, February 25, 2008
Missing His Time
John Edwards missed the mark.
The former presidential candidate has waited to endorse either Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama for the Democratic nomination, leaving his endorsement effectively null and void.
Here's my reasoning:
Had Edwards made a committment to one candidate or the other prior to Super Tuesday - or even last week - he would've had time to get out and rally his supporters for the candidate of his choice. Now, it's too late to campaign, and if Obama wins either Texas or Ohio, the race is effectively over. If Hillary wins both, and then Edwards endorses Hillary, it's likely too little too late baring a miracle.
He may have strong feelings towards the war or poverty - but I believe this is a man who's more interested in hedging his bets than helping the poor - much less a candidate win the nomination.
Friday, February 22, 2008
"Change you can Xerox"...
In the debate between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama on Thursday - there were a couple of telling moments:
1. Obama responds to allegations that he is all style- and no substance:
"OBAMA: Senator Clinton of late has said: Let's get real. The implication is that the people who've been voting for me or involved in my campaign are somehow delusional.
(LAUGHTER)
And that, you know, the 20 million people who've been paying attention to 19 debates and the editorial boards all across the country at newspapers who have given me endorsements, including every major newspaper here in the state of Texas.
(APPLAUSE)
You know, the thinking is that somehow, they're being duped, and eventually they're going to see the reality of things.
Well, I think they perceive reality of what's going on in Washington very clearly. What they see is that if we don't bring the country together, stop the endless bickering, actually focus on solutions and reduce the special interests that have dominated Washington, then we will not get anything done. And the reason that this campaign has done so well...
(APPLAUSE)
The reason that this campaign has done so well is because people understand that it is not just a matter of putting forward policy positions.
Senator Clinton and I share a lot of policy positions. But if we can't inspire the American people to get involved in their government and if we can't inspire them to go beyond the racial divisions and the religious divisions and the regional divisions that have plagued our politics for so long, then we will continue to see the kind of gridlock and nonperformance in Washington that is resulting in families suffering in very real ways.
I'm running for president to start doing something about that suffering, and so are the people who are behind my campaign."
(LAUGHTER)
And that, you know, the 20 million people who've been paying attention to 19 debates and the editorial boards all across the country at newspapers who have given me endorsements, including every major newspaper here in the state of Texas.
(APPLAUSE)
You know, the thinking is that somehow, they're being duped, and eventually they're going to see the reality of things.
Well, I think they perceive reality of what's going on in Washington very clearly. What they see is that if we don't bring the country together, stop the endless bickering, actually focus on solutions and reduce the special interests that have dominated Washington, then we will not get anything done. And the reason that this campaign has done so well...
(APPLAUSE)
The reason that this campaign has done so well is because people understand that it is not just a matter of putting forward policy positions.
Senator Clinton and I share a lot of policy positions. But if we can't inspire the American people to get involved in their government and if we can't inspire them to go beyond the racial divisions and the religious divisions and the regional divisions that have plagued our politics for so long, then we will continue to see the kind of gridlock and nonperformance in Washington that is resulting in families suffering in very real ways.
I'm running for president to start doing something about that suffering, and so are the people who are behind my campaign."
2. Obama responds to charges that he "plagiarized"
OBAMA: Well, look, the -- first of all, it's not a lot of speeches. There are two lines in speeches that I've been giving over the last couple of weeks.
I've been campaigning now for the last two years. Deval is a national co-chairman of my campaign, and suggested an argument that I share, that words are important. Words matter. And the implication that they don't I think diminishes how important it is to speak to the American people directly about making America as good as its promise. Barbara Jordan understood this as well as anybody.
OBAMA: And the notion that I had plagiarized from somebody who was one of my national co-chairs...
(APPLAUSE)
... who gave me the line and suggested that I use it, I think, is silly, and...
(APPLAUSE)
... you know, this is where we start getting into silly season, in politics, and I think people start getting discouraged about it...
(LAUGHTER)
... and they don't want...
(APPLAUSE)
What they want is, how are we going to create good jobs and good wages?
How are we going to provide health care to the American people?
How are we going to make sure that college is affordable?
So what I've been talking about, in this speeches -- and I've got to admit, some of them are pretty good.
(APPLAUSE)
What I've been talking about is not just hope and not just inspiration. It's a $4,000 tuition credit for every student, every year, in exchange for national service...
(APPLAUSE)
... so that college becomes more affordable.
OBAMA: I've been talking about making sure that we change our tax code so that working families actually get relief. I have been talking about making sure that we bring an end to this war in Iraq so that we can start bringing our troops home and invest money here in the United States.
(APPLAUSE)
So just to finish up, these are very specific, concrete, detailed proposals, many of them which I have been working on for years now. Senator Clinton has a fine record. So do I. I'm happy to have a debate on the issues, but what we shouldn't be spending time doing is tearing each other down. We should be spending time lifting the country up.
(APPLAUSE)
BROWN: Senator Clinton, is it the silly season?
CLINTON: Well, I think that if your candidacy is going to be about words, then they should be your own words. That's, I think, a very simple proposition.
(APPLAUSE)
And, you know, lifting whole passages from someone else's speeches is not change you can believe in, it's change you can Xerox. And I just don't think...
OBAMA: Come on.
I've been campaigning now for the last two years. Deval is a national co-chairman of my campaign, and suggested an argument that I share, that words are important. Words matter. And the implication that they don't I think diminishes how important it is to speak to the American people directly about making America as good as its promise. Barbara Jordan understood this as well as anybody.
OBAMA: And the notion that I had plagiarized from somebody who was one of my national co-chairs...
(APPLAUSE)
... who gave me the line and suggested that I use it, I think, is silly, and...
(APPLAUSE)
... you know, this is where we start getting into silly season, in politics, and I think people start getting discouraged about it...
(LAUGHTER)
... and they don't want...
(APPLAUSE)
What they want is, how are we going to create good jobs and good wages?
How are we going to provide health care to the American people?
How are we going to make sure that college is affordable?
So what I've been talking about, in this speeches -- and I've got to admit, some of them are pretty good.
(APPLAUSE)
What I've been talking about is not just hope and not just inspiration. It's a $4,000 tuition credit for every student, every year, in exchange for national service...
(APPLAUSE)
... so that college becomes more affordable.
OBAMA: I've been talking about making sure that we change our tax code so that working families actually get relief. I have been talking about making sure that we bring an end to this war in Iraq so that we can start bringing our troops home and invest money here in the United States.
(APPLAUSE)
So just to finish up, these are very specific, concrete, detailed proposals, many of them which I have been working on for years now. Senator Clinton has a fine record. So do I. I'm happy to have a debate on the issues, but what we shouldn't be spending time doing is tearing each other down. We should be spending time lifting the country up.
(APPLAUSE)
BROWN: Senator Clinton, is it the silly season?
CLINTON: Well, I think that if your candidacy is going to be about words, then they should be your own words. That's, I think, a very simple proposition.
(APPLAUSE)
And, you know, lifting whole passages from someone else's speeches is not change you can believe in, it's change you can Xerox. And I just don't think...
OBAMA: Come on.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
McCain Blasts New York Times for Story
Why is McCain so mad? Well, you'd be mad too if the New York Times published a story that questions not only your integrity as an honest lawmaker, but also gives some credence to rumors that he may have had innappropriate relations with a telecom lobbiest.
In the article, the NYT write that some staffers of McCains where trying to "save him from himself" by keeping this lobbiest away from him, and him away from her.
Both McCain and the Lobbiest - 30 years his younger - deny any relationship, which is alleged to have happened about 8 years ago.
Rumble In Austin?
It COULD be a a hell of a fight in Austin as Clinton and Obama square off in their second head-to-head debate at 7 tonight.
The thing to watch: How hard will Hilalry try to punch?
Hillary needs a game-changer, and the debate format is her home court. But she has to be careful not to turn people off by attacking a very popular candidate.
Should be interesting... then again, we thought the last one would be knock-down-drag-out... and it turned into a love-fest.
"Cold, Calculated Violation Of The Law"
Those were the words of a Obama spokesperson describing how a Clinton 527 going up in Texas and Ohio could land some donors, and possibly the campaign in some hot legal trouble... More to come on this...
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Cheeseheads To Obama
Currently, Obama has 56% of the vote to 43% for Clinton with about 70% of the precincts reporting.
This is Big.
Why?
Obama has expanded his delegate lead - by a significant margin. He gains another 8-9 Delegates, meaning Clinton will have to win Texas, Ohio and Pennsylvania by and average of about 65% to pull back ahead.
Another interesting 'inside politics' note:
Obama was schedule to speak to a Houston Audience at 8:30 central time. Clinton - who was going to speak at another time, moved her speech to about 8:20 central time. Clinton refuses to acknowledge the vote in Wisconsin and goes on to bash Obama in an appearent attempt to upstage him.
But Obama then - despite typical protocol to wait until your opponent speech is over - went on with his speech as scheduled. All the networks cut from Clinton and go to Obama. THEN, the talking point that "Obama upstaged Clinton" gets circulated... gotta love dirty politics, huh?
This is Big.
Why?
Obama has expanded his delegate lead - by a significant margin. He gains another 8-9 Delegates, meaning Clinton will have to win Texas, Ohio and Pennsylvania by and average of about 65% to pull back ahead.
Another interesting 'inside politics' note:
Obama was schedule to speak to a Houston Audience at 8:30 central time. Clinton - who was going to speak at another time, moved her speech to about 8:20 central time. Clinton refuses to acknowledge the vote in Wisconsin and goes on to bash Obama in an appearent attempt to upstage him.
But Obama then - despite typical protocol to wait until your opponent speech is over - went on with his speech as scheduled. All the networks cut from Clinton and go to Obama. THEN, the talking point that "Obama upstaged Clinton" gets circulated... gotta love dirty politics, huh?
Plagarism?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8M6x1H08aFc
The Clinton campaign is slamming Barack Obama for Plagarism - taking some phrases from Deval Patrick's campaign speech when Patrick was running for Governor of Massechussetts.
Obama says he should have credited Deval. But, here's something you won't hear in the media reports:
#1 Patrick is friends with and supports Barack Obama
#2 Patrick's Campaign manager when he gave his "Just Words" speech: David Axelrod.
#3 Barack Obama's Campaign manager: David Axelrod.
This wasn't plagerism. This was a campaign using a similar line of defense when being attacked as being "without the beef". Axelrod is the one who coined it - and he's using it again with his Presidential candidate.
The Clinton campaign is slamming Barack Obama for Plagarism - taking some phrases from Deval Patrick's campaign speech when Patrick was running for Governor of Massechussetts.
Obama says he should have credited Deval. But, here's something you won't hear in the media reports:
#1 Patrick is friends with and supports Barack Obama
#2 Patrick's Campaign manager when he gave his "Just Words" speech: David Axelrod.
#3 Barack Obama's Campaign manager: David Axelrod.
This wasn't plagerism. This was a campaign using a similar line of defense when being attacked as being "without the beef". Axelrod is the one who coined it - and he's using it again with his Presidential candidate.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Gonzaga Representing At Sundance
Some love for a couple of guys I went to college with who are now working for NBC Universal - I think they put this together during the Writer's Strike:
http://www.youtube.com/user/BaratsAndBereta
Check out their other stuff too... it's pretty funny.
Completely Uncalled For, and Mother's Day are a couple of my favorites.
http://www.youtube.com/user/BaratsAndBereta
Check out their other stuff too... it's pretty funny.
Completely Uncalled For, and Mother's Day are a couple of my favorites.
Texas Firewall?
Remember how the Clinton Camp kept pointing to Texas and Ohio as the places they will make their big run towards the nomination, and that voters should just overlook the primaries in places like Virginia and Wisconsin?
Obama now leads Texas 48-42% over Clinton.
The most important figure:
Obama leads with Independents and Republicans 71-24%
However, in three other earlier polls, Clinton leads by an average of 10%
Obama now leads Texas 48-42% over Clinton.
The most important figure:
Obama leads with Independents and Republicans 71-24%
However, in three other earlier polls, Clinton leads by an average of 10%
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Debatable
So here's Hillary's Ad running in Wisconsin:
And the parody, which I find a bit amusing...
From ad:
"Both Candidates were invited to debate in Wisconsin. Hillary jumped on that like a UW freshman on a beer bong..."
And the parody, which I find a bit amusing...
From ad:
"Both Candidates were invited to debate in Wisconsin. Hillary jumped on that like a UW freshman on a beer bong..."
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Edwards Endorsement Sweepstakes
One of the big question marks (outside of who will win) in the Democratic Nomination process is who John Edwards will endorse.
A recent ABC article suggests he may be leaning toward Clinton. This woudl certainly give Hilalry a must needed boost after 8 straight primary and caucus losses.
I can't say I could see Edwards endorsing Clinton. And if he does, I'm afraid it would be out of lust for power. He certainly has held out for a long time, giving me reason to believe he's trying to play his cards just right to land the best position possible in the adminstration of whoever wins the nomination. But given his populus message, he'd be eating his words to then endorse Clinton.
I'd much rather see him not endorse anyone, and leave me believing he's atelast partially true to his word and not a career politician.
A recent ABC article suggests he may be leaning toward Clinton. This woudl certainly give Hilalry a must needed boost after 8 straight primary and caucus losses.
I can't say I could see Edwards endorsing Clinton. And if he does, I'm afraid it would be out of lust for power. He certainly has held out for a long time, giving me reason to believe he's trying to play his cards just right to land the best position possible in the adminstration of whoever wins the nomination. But given his populus message, he'd be eating his words to then endorse Clinton.
I'd much rather see him not endorse anyone, and leave me believing he's atelast partially true to his word and not a career politician.
Land of Cheese In Play
I’ve said before that Wisconsin is a battleground in the Dem Primary – and it is now more than ever. But while the Clinton campaign will play it down (saying the real states that matter are TX, OH, PE, etc), they are furiously trying to get the vote in Wisconsin. Here’s the scenario:
Barack Obama will soon have a Delegate lead (even adding up to the Super Delegates, which he trails Hillary by about 80 - See Delegate 101 ). But in terms of pledged delegates and the popular vote, Obama is way out ahead. The argument is going to be made as we get closer to the election that whoever has more pledged delegates (these are the delegates people actually vote for) ought to get the support of the super Delegates, rather than the super delegates simply deciding against the will of the people and giving the nomination to the other candidate.
At this point, Obama leads in Pledged Delegates 1104-979. That’s a 125 delegate lead… and that’s huge. Hillary is trying to win big in Texas, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. They have a combined pledged delegate total of 492. So right now, Clinton would have to win those three states by an average margin of 62% (309-183) in order to take back the pledged delegate lead. That’s tough by itself. But If Obama runs away with Wisconsin – say by winning 60% of their 74 pledged delegates – he’d increase that 125 delegate lead to 139. Then she’d need to take 66% of those three big states to take back the lead.
Fact is, Clinton NEEDS to perform well in Wisconsin. And despite her campaign saying only Texas, Ohio, and Pennsylvania matter – they are going balls to the wall in the Dairyland.
(Just watch how often Bill, Hill, and Chelsea parade through the state)…
Barack Obama will soon have a Delegate lead (even adding up to the Super Delegates, which he trails Hillary by about 80 - See Delegate 101 ). But in terms of pledged delegates and the popular vote, Obama is way out ahead. The argument is going to be made as we get closer to the election that whoever has more pledged delegates (these are the delegates people actually vote for) ought to get the support of the super Delegates, rather than the super delegates simply deciding against the will of the people and giving the nomination to the other candidate.
At this point, Obama leads in Pledged Delegates 1104-979. That’s a 125 delegate lead… and that’s huge. Hillary is trying to win big in Texas, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. They have a combined pledged delegate total of 492. So right now, Clinton would have to win those three states by an average margin of 62% (309-183) in order to take back the pledged delegate lead. That’s tough by itself. But If Obama runs away with Wisconsin – say by winning 60% of their 74 pledged delegates – he’d increase that 125 delegate lead to 139. Then she’d need to take 66% of those three big states to take back the lead.
Fact is, Clinton NEEDS to perform well in Wisconsin. And despite her campaign saying only Texas, Ohio, and Pennsylvania matter – they are going balls to the wall in the Dairyland.
(Just watch how often Bill, Hill, and Chelsea parade through the state)…
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Why Huck Is Running?
Some theories, today, as to why Huckabee - who barely has a snowballs chance in hell of winning - is still running in the race.
It could be pretty simple: The two have run very cordial campaigns, no real fighting, not bashing each other. It ultimately could be good news for McCain that Huck is running. Why?
Imagine if Huck dropped out. McCain would have the nomination wrapped up for certain. But since Huck si in the race, the media actaully has to spent time covering McCain's wins. Instead of a media fre-for-all just covering the democratic race, they are forced to cover the republican (race - if you want to call it that) simply because there is a contender.
One last point: Huckabee would need 93% of the delegates from here on out in order to get the nomination. However, he just needs to make sure MCCain DOESN"T get something like 45% of the delegates remaining. If that happens, then it goes to the convention where it will be a free-for-all. So there si some logic to a Huckabee run beyond my own theory.
McCain, however, looks like he will roll in teh Potomac Primaries, effectiely ending Huck's Hopes.
It could be pretty simple: The two have run very cordial campaigns, no real fighting, not bashing each other. It ultimately could be good news for McCain that Huck is running. Why?
Imagine if Huck dropped out. McCain would have the nomination wrapped up for certain. But since Huck si in the race, the media actaully has to spent time covering McCain's wins. Instead of a media fre-for-all just covering the democratic race, they are forced to cover the republican (race - if you want to call it that) simply because there is a contender.One last point: Huckabee would need 93% of the delegates from here on out in order to get the nomination. However, he just needs to make sure MCCain DOESN"T get something like 45% of the delegates remaining. If that happens, then it goes to the convention where it will be a free-for-all. So there si some logic to a Huckabee run beyond my own theory.
McCain, however, looks like he will roll in teh Potomac Primaries, effectiely ending Huck's Hopes.
Tracking The Vote
There are a coupel of sites up giving us a little better perspective into who is really winning the race fro the presidency.
As I've written about before - Super Delegates vs. Pledged Delegates can really muddy up what is really happening.
So here are two sites:
Democratic Convention Watch helps you track who has endorsed whom.
Obama is Winning tracks how the Pledged Delegates actually have put Obama in the lead.
As I've written about before - Super Delegates vs. Pledged Delegates can really muddy up what is really happening.
So here are two sites:
Democratic Convention Watch helps you track who has endorsed whom.
Obama is Winning tracks how the Pledged Delegates actually have put Obama in the lead.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Potomac Primaries
After a slew of weekend contests won by Barack Obama, the two campaigns will go up against each other in the so-called "Potomac Primaries" which include Virginia, Maryland, and D.C.
While Obama is ahead in the polls in all three contests, Clinton needs a strong showing - if not a win - in Virginia. Basically, she needs to stop the bleeding after 5 straight losses since super tuesday (losing each by 19 points or more), and the chance of losing 10 straight (including Hawaii and Wisconsin next week) before the Texas and Ohio Primaries in early March.
McCain could put the nail in the coffin of rival Mike Huckabee, who is hanging on by a thread on the republican side. He is pulling the socially conservatice and anti-McCain vote, hoping to win enough delegates to keep MCCain from running up the 1191 necessary for the nomination.
The Huck is still alive, barely
Mike Huckabee pulle dout a coupel of impressive wins this past weekend winning both Kansas and Louisiana (they are also contesting Washington State, where McCain was declared the winner by about 200 votes with a couple of thosuand left to count).
The wins show he still has a fighting chance, however - even he admits- he needs a miracle to pull this one out.
The unfortunate thing for Huckabee is that the majority of Republican contests left in the '08 race are not winner take all, meaning McCain can slowly creep to the 1191 delegates needed to assure the nomination without wining a single state.
Going into the Potomac Primaries (Maryland, Virginia, D.C.) on tuesday, however, McCain has substantial leads in each race according to the most recent polls.
The wins show he still has a fighting chance, however - even he admits- he needs a miracle to pull this one out.
The unfortunate thing for Huckabee is that the majority of Republican contests left in the '08 race are not winner take all, meaning McCain can slowly creep to the 1191 delegates needed to assure the nomination without wining a single state.
Going into the Potomac Primaries (Maryland, Virginia, D.C.) on tuesday, however, McCain has substantial leads in each race according to the most recent polls.
Defending Shuster
David Shuster should not have been suspended and dragged into a whole mess of political manuvering. (see Video below)
When Shuster used the term "pimping out" to describe how the Clinton campaign was using Chelsea on the trail, he was not using it in a manner suggesting they were selling her body for the purpose of profit... the phrase "pimp out" has taken on a whole different pop-culture meaning.
And if Shusters words were taken out of context -as they have been - it should not be reflected as a statement on Chelsea, but rather on the Clinton campaign for "pimping her out".
But becuase the campaign is making this out to be a slam on Chelsea, it seems to me that it is clearly a politically motivated move. By trying to create sympathy, they are in essence doing the same thing Hillary did when she cried in New Hampshire. And concerns that Chelsea should be off limits ought to be null - she is an adult and actively campaigning - making calls and speaking to groups. She is now longer a 'child' but rather a member of the staff that is open to criticism.
When Shuster used the term "pimping out" to describe how the Clinton campaign was using Chelsea on the trail, he was not using it in a manner suggesting they were selling her body for the purpose of profit... the phrase "pimp out" has taken on a whole different pop-culture meaning. And if Shusters words were taken out of context -as they have been - it should not be reflected as a statement on Chelsea, but rather on the Clinton campaign for "pimping her out".
But becuase the campaign is making this out to be a slam on Chelsea, it seems to me that it is clearly a politically motivated move. By trying to create sympathy, they are in essence doing the same thing Hillary did when she cried in New Hampshire. And concerns that Chelsea should be off limits ought to be null - she is an adult and actively campaigning - making calls and speaking to groups. She is now longer a 'child' but rather a member of the staff that is open to criticism.
Obama Rolls
Barack Obama swept all five contests this weekend, taking Washington, Louisiana, Nebraska, Maine, and the Virgin Islands. This wasn't just a sweep, but rather a pounding - as he took 59% -70% in the 4 states, and 90% in the Virgin Islands.
This puts added rpessure on the Clinton camp in Virginia and Wisconsin, perhaps the only two states in a string of ten since Super Tuesday has a chance of winning. (Virginia, Maryland, and D.C. vote in the "Potomac Primaries" on Tuesday).
Wisconsin and Hawaii vote a week from tuesday, both of which are leaning towards Obama. The Illinois senator spent his formative years in Hawaii and is considered a bit of a native son, and Wisconsin has a history of voting very progressively inthe Democratic primary.
Clinton has fired her campaign manager and now must focus on getting wins in Ohio and Texas on March 4th - hoping to stop the flood of wins by Obama.
This puts added rpessure on the Clinton camp in Virginia and Wisconsin, perhaps the only two states in a string of ten since Super Tuesday has a chance of winning. (Virginia, Maryland, and D.C. vote in the "Potomac Primaries" on Tuesday).
Wisconsin and Hawaii vote a week from tuesday, both of which are leaning towards Obama. The Illinois senator spent his formative years in Hawaii and is considered a bit of a native son, and Wisconsin has a history of voting very progressively inthe Democratic primary.
Clinton has fired her campaign manager and now must focus on getting wins in Ohio and Texas on March 4th - hoping to stop the flood of wins by Obama.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Chelsea "Pimped Out"
There is a heated back and forth between MSNBC reporter David Shuster and the Hillary campaign following a comment by teh reporter on the news network.
Here's the comment:
In my opinion, while the Clinton campaign has every right to be upset over the remark, they are proving that the stink they are making over it is purely political.
#1 This was not a derrogatory comment about Chelsea, rather one towards the Clinton campaign. They are playing the gender card here, when they way teh reporter was using the term was in no way meant to be derrogatory.
#2 The Clinton campaign is saying they now won't take part in the MSNBC debate in Ohio, a debate they asked for. All of this garners more press about the incident, and draws out the "Hillary's campaign is being attacked by sexist pigs" storyline.
I agree with Shuster, that while a bit off-handed, has been taken WAY out of context. He's been suspended for 3 weeks, and the Clintons should shut up about it and take part in the debate. MSNBC went overboard - and the Clintons should stop playing politics with this.
Here's the comment:
In my opinion, while the Clinton campaign has every right to be upset over the remark, they are proving that the stink they are making over it is purely political.
#1 This was not a derrogatory comment about Chelsea, rather one towards the Clinton campaign. They are playing the gender card here, when they way teh reporter was using the term was in no way meant to be derrogatory.
#2 The Clinton campaign is saying they now won't take part in the MSNBC debate in Ohio, a debate they asked for. All of this garners more press about the incident, and draws out the "Hillary's campaign is being attacked by sexist pigs" storyline.
I agree with Shuster, that while a bit off-handed, has been taken WAY out of context. He's been suspended for 3 weeks, and the Clintons should shut up about it and take part in the debate. MSNBC went overboard - and the Clintons should stop playing politics with this.
Delegate Dilemma
Oh what a tangled web the Democrats weave...
The Democrats have done two things to their presidential nominated system that may bite them in the backside this year:
#1 They award delegates (pledged delegates) on a proportional basis - essencially to allow for second place to get some points in each state.
#2 They allowed for 'Super Delegates' from each state. These are Democratic Governors, Democratic Memebers of Congress, old Democratic leaders, and former Democratic presidents.
Why does this matter?
There are 4,049 Delegates overall. One candidate needs to have 2025 to ensure the nomination.
3,253 are Pledged Delegates. These are the delegates candidates earn by winning primaries and caucuses. Again, these are given out on a proportional basis, i.e. In Minnesota (72 Pledged Delegates), Barack Obama won 67% of the vote to Hillary's 32%. That gave Obama 48 pledged delegates, and Clinton 24 - based on percentages. Some states will even break down those delegates based on how many precincts they won - but it typically averages out to each candidate getting delegates at the same ratio as the popular vote.
The remaining 796 delegates are Super Delegates. As I listed above, these are the party big-wigs. They can choose to vote however they like, change their mind, decide whenever they want - as long as they make a decision by the Democratic National Convention. Typically, the Superdelegates will vote along the lines of how their district or their state votes. (There are 16 superdelegates from Minnesota, some have already endorsed Obama, others to Clinton).
As it stands right now, Barack Obama has the most pledged delegates at 908. Clinton is right behind with 884. But once you add the Superdelegates, Clinton holds a 1079-1009 lead.
357 Superdelegates have not endorsed. 1435 pledged delegates are left to awarded.
So, let's say this race goes on pace as we've been going - pretty much 50-50... maybe even give one candidate a little edge 53-47% over the next two months (which would be a landslide in the election).
That would give Clinton (with 53%) 760 pledged delegates through the rest of the race, giving her a total of 1839 delegates (well short of the 2025 total) and It would give Obama (with 47%) 675 - a total of 1684.
Neither would have the 2025 need to ensure the nomination... leaving the decision up to the Superdelegates.
Clinton would need 186 of the super delegates. Obama would basically need all of them. In this instance, would appear Clinton would get the Nod. However, it's unlikely that the electorate will break in favor of either candidate by that much.
SO - according to DNC Chair Howard Dean - he wants to avoid what's called a "Brokered Convention" at all costs. A Brokered Covnention is something we haven't seen in decades, where the delegates on the floor actully do deal-making at the convention - and go back and forth until one candidate gets the majority vote - typically after several ballots.
This would be bad for the party because it would only allow a few weeks for the democrats to get behind one candidate. You run the risk of sore losers, jaded voters, and a fractured party.... and ultimately open the door for the Republicans to win what's considered - at the moment - to be an unwinnable election.
What you may see happen is if one candidate does start to pull out ahead after Texas and Ohio vote, the DNC Chair may have to get both campaigns in a room and say "Look, we need to have one of you drop out and the other run as VP".
The interesting thing is Obama will be going on a run the next couple of weeks (likely winning 8 of the next 9). If his momentum carries him to a win and close second in the delegate-rich Texas and Ohio respectively - Clinton would likely be asked to step down. If she wins both Texas and Ohio, there will be more butting heads. Clinton doesn't lose well.
The problem will come if Obama is asked to sit down and run as VP if Hillary sweeps Texas and Ohio by close margins. It would turn so many people off who have never been involved in the process. And in my opinon, the democrats have a very real chance of once again, "grabbing defeat out of the jaws of victory".
The superdelegates shouldn't be deciding the nominee.
The Democrats have done two things to their presidential nominated system that may bite them in the backside this year:
#1 They award delegates (pledged delegates) on a proportional basis - essencially to allow for second place to get some points in each state.
#2 They allowed for 'Super Delegates' from each state. These are Democratic Governors, Democratic Memebers of Congress, old Democratic leaders, and former Democratic presidents.
Why does this matter?
There are 4,049 Delegates overall. One candidate needs to have 2025 to ensure the nomination.
3,253 are Pledged Delegates. These are the delegates candidates earn by winning primaries and caucuses. Again, these are given out on a proportional basis, i.e. In Minnesota (72 Pledged Delegates), Barack Obama won 67% of the vote to Hillary's 32%. That gave Obama 48 pledged delegates, and Clinton 24 - based on percentages. Some states will even break down those delegates based on how many precincts they won - but it typically averages out to each candidate getting delegates at the same ratio as the popular vote.
The remaining 796 delegates are Super Delegates. As I listed above, these are the party big-wigs. They can choose to vote however they like, change their mind, decide whenever they want - as long as they make a decision by the Democratic National Convention. Typically, the Superdelegates will vote along the lines of how their district or their state votes. (There are 16 superdelegates from Minnesota, some have already endorsed Obama, others to Clinton).
As it stands right now, Barack Obama has the most pledged delegates at 908. Clinton is right behind with 884. But once you add the Superdelegates, Clinton holds a 1079-1009 lead.
357 Superdelegates have not endorsed. 1435 pledged delegates are left to awarded.
So, let's say this race goes on pace as we've been going - pretty much 50-50... maybe even give one candidate a little edge 53-47% over the next two months (which would be a landslide in the election).
That would give Clinton (with 53%) 760 pledged delegates through the rest of the race, giving her a total of 1839 delegates (well short of the 2025 total) and It would give Obama (with 47%) 675 - a total of 1684.
Neither would have the 2025 need to ensure the nomination... leaving the decision up to the Superdelegates.
Clinton would need 186 of the super delegates. Obama would basically need all of them. In this instance, would appear Clinton would get the Nod. However, it's unlikely that the electorate will break in favor of either candidate by that much.
SO - according to DNC Chair Howard Dean - he wants to avoid what's called a "Brokered Convention" at all costs. A Brokered Covnention is something we haven't seen in decades, where the delegates on the floor actully do deal-making at the convention - and go back and forth until one candidate gets the majority vote - typically after several ballots.
This would be bad for the party because it would only allow a few weeks for the democrats to get behind one candidate. You run the risk of sore losers, jaded voters, and a fractured party.... and ultimately open the door for the Republicans to win what's considered - at the moment - to be an unwinnable election.
What you may see happen is if one candidate does start to pull out ahead after Texas and Ohio vote, the DNC Chair may have to get both campaigns in a room and say "Look, we need to have one of you drop out and the other run as VP".
The interesting thing is Obama will be going on a run the next couple of weeks (likely winning 8 of the next 9). If his momentum carries him to a win and close second in the delegate-rich Texas and Ohio respectively - Clinton would likely be asked to step down. If she wins both Texas and Ohio, there will be more butting heads. Clinton doesn't lose well.
The problem will come if Obama is asked to sit down and run as VP if Hillary sweeps Texas and Ohio by close margins. It would turn so many people off who have never been involved in the process. And in my opinon, the democrats have a very real chance of once again, "grabbing defeat out of the jaws of victory".
The superdelegates shouldn't be deciding the nominee.
WA Gov. Endorses Obama
Washington Governor Chris Gregoire is endorsing Barack Obama, she announced Friday morning - just one day before the Stat's Democratic caucus. This will be a big boost for Obama who not only gets the godo press, but Gregoire is a Superdelegate for the Democratic National Convention.
Franken In Strong Position
Democratic U.S. Senate hopeful Al Franken is in a very good position after the vast majority of delegates selected to the state DFL convention were Franken supporters. According to a completely unscientific poll done by the Franken campaign, he carried about 3000 votes, compared to two of his competitors who both barely eclipsed 600.
Franken, a former SNL actor and host of his own Air America talk show, is running against Republican Sen. Norm Coleman in the 2008 election. Franken has to be excited about the democratic turnout in the Minnesota primary earlier this week. If the Democratic Presidential nominee is Barack Obama, Franken is almost a shoe-in for the seat, assuming turnout remains high.
First Jesse, now Franken... only in Minnesota.
Dobson For Huckabee
The Huck is picking up some key conservative endorsements (which would have been nice before Super Tuesday, but he'll take them none-the-less). Focus on the Family's Dr. James Dobson appears to be throwing his support behind Mike Huckabee.
Dobson went on the record saying he would never vote for McCain.
Can Hillary Lose?
As in, can she fall with grace? Peggy Noonan makes some good points about how Hillary is 'fighting tooth and nail' for the nomination that may be an indication of how she might react if she were to lose.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Gore To Endorse?
More Debates
It looks like the two democratic candidates for president will be duking it out a few more times before critical states like Ohio and Texas have their primaries. Barack Obama confirmed today that there would be atleast 2 debates - including one in Ohio, before March 4th.
The Clinton camp had been pushing for a debate a week, but the Obama camp has turned down that offer.
Conventional thinking would be that a debate favors Clinton, giving her time to show her vast knowledge of the issues and potential for Obama to slip up. However, it also puts Hillary in a position to answer a very uncomfortable question over and over again: Why did you vote for the War in Iraq?
Politics in Hillaryland
Fool me once...
It looks like the Hillary camp has played on emotions to get what they want once again.
A day after Hillary shed a tear over personal distress in her campaign, she won a surprise victory in New Hampshire. Today, her campaign is reeling in $4 Million in online contributions after staff was told they would need to work without pay. But now, according to that same staff, they ARE getting paid as planned.
ABC News is questioning this strategy as a stunt, saying it may have all been part of the plan.
The Huck
Does the Huck have a fighting chance? Unfortunately, as much as I'm for the underdog, I don't think he's going to get the support he needs to steal the nomination from John McCain.
The only thing that might save him is if Romney suddenly endorses him. However, that is unlikely since he stepped away "for the good of the party" so that it can get behind one candidate. (Romney did not imply McCain, however)
We'll see how it plays out. One thing is for sure: Conservative Talk radio no longer has a say as to who is running in the Republican party. Sorry Rush...
The only thing that might save him is if Romney suddenly endorses him. However, that is unlikely since he stepped away "for the good of the party" so that it can get behind one candidate. (Romney did not imply McCain, however)
We'll see how it plays out. One thing is for sure: Conservative Talk radio no longer has a say as to who is running in the Republican party. Sorry Rush...
Romney Drops Out
Mitt Romney has bowed out of the 2008 race for the presidency. It is now down to front-runner John McCain, Mike Huckabee, and Ron Paul are the three left standing for hte GOP nomination. McCain looks to be in the best position to wrap up the nomination, especially if Romney does not endorse Huckabee.
Full Story
My New Blog
After annoying all my friend with E-mails about politics they could care less about, I've decided to start a new blog.
This blog is designed to let me vent, and inform, if you are willing to stomach it. We'll see how it goes.
This blog is designed to let me vent, and inform, if you are willing to stomach it. We'll see how it goes.
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