First thoughts: Tracking the transition

Posted: Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:30 AM by Mark Murray
Filed Under: First Thoughts

From Chuck Todd, Mark Murray, Domenico Montanaro, and Carrie Dann
*** Tracking the transition: Today's unofficial pick of the day appears to be Janet Napolitano for Homeland Security. A Napolitano pick would show that Obama views the immigration part of the DHS job as the priority. Of course, like every leak out of the vetting process, nothing is official; in fact one Dem source says that while she’s a leading contender for DHS, it’s not the only post she’s being vetted for. Another governor to keep an eye on today as the next potential "leaked" pick: Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius. The vetting process is well under way for her, and the most likely spot for her appears to be Labor secretary, although she might also wind up at Energy. But Labor makes the most sense, as both the business community and labor seem to be fans. As for the media obsession over the Hillary Clinton pick, it appears Bill is making it clear he's cooperating fully. Bloomberg News reports that he's turned over to the Obama vetting operation the entire list of 200,000+ donors to his library and foundation. By the way, while we keep hearing about leaked picks for Commerce (Pritzker), Labor (Sebelius), DHS (Napolitano), and HHS (Daschle), it's interesting that there is nary a peep in the chattering class about Treasury secretary. How come?

Video: NBC Political Director Chuck Todd offers his first read on the Clinton’s trying to force Barack Obama’s hand on the secretary of state position and some of the latest contenders to join Obama’s cabinet.

*** Como se dice, "Shut out"? As Obama's cabinet takes shape, there's a glaring omission: Hispanics. With Bill Richardson apparently destined to be the bridesmaid in the secretary of state sweepstakes, some key Hispanic supporters tell First Read that they are concerned that no Hispanics will fill any of the major White House or cabinet positions. It's a bit frustrating to some leading Hispanic Democrats, especially considering how decisively Hispanics went for Obama in this election. Hispanics, literally, were the difference between winning and losing for Obama in at least two states, New Mexico and Indiana. But for the future of the Democratic Party, if Obama truly does have designs on a realignment, he needs to cultivate Hispanics into the Democratic tent. So far, many Hispanics are not happy with the leaks coming out of the transition and the lack of Hispanic names being floated outside of Richardson.

*** The path to 60: If Democrats don’t reach 60 Senate seats this year -- by winning both the run-off in Georgia or the recount in Minnesota -- they’ll probably get there in 2010. Why? Because for yet another cycle, Democrats are playing with a favorable hand. They have to defend 16 seats, and outside the one held by Harry Reid (more on him below), as well as the ones that Obama and Biden are giving up, they look pretty safe for now. By comparison, Republicans will have 19 Senate seats to defend, including potentially challenging ones like Mel Martinez in Florida (even if he runs), Jim Bunning in Kentucky, and David Vitter in Louisiana. Folks like John McCain (especially if Janet Napolitano runs, although that looks less likely right now), George Voinovich, and even Chuck Grassley might have real races on their hands or could be candidates for retirement. In short, even with the Two-Year Itch, Democrats look more likely to pick up Senate seats than Republicans do at this early juncture. That perception could make it especially difficult for incoming NRSC Chair John Cornyn when it comes to the three R’s: retirements, recruiting, and resources. Indeed, on the money front, Republicans might decide that they have better opportunities with House and gubernatorial races in 2010. Then again, it’s early. At this point heading into the 2005-6 cycle, Dems looked like they would pick up just a couple of Senate seats, versus the six they ended up winning. But to take advantage of an environment that becomes more favorable, you need help with the three R’s.

*** When Harry met re-election: With Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid up for re-election in 2010 -- and with him being potentially the Dems’ most vulnerable incumbent -- it’s worth keeping an eye about how his actions in the Senate might affect his re-election bid. Indeed, is this one of the reasons that he and most of his colleagues gave Joe Lieberman just a slap on the wrist on Tuesday? You might have forgotten it, but Reid narrowly won re-election in 1998 by just slightly more than 400 votes. Of course, that race was against John Ensign, who ended up winning a Senate seat two years later. After the most recent election, in which Obama won the Silver State and Dems won Jon Porter’s (R) House seat, Democrats have to feel better about winning in Nevada. But it still remains a swing state.

*** Southern comfort: Right before the election, we noted the danger of the Republican Party becoming a regional -- i.e., southern -- party. Well, after the House and Senate conducted its leadership elections in the past two days, we know that southerners will now fill six out of the GOP's combined 13 leadership positions in the two chambers. They are: House Minority Whip Eric Cantor (VA), House Conference Secretary John Carter (TX), NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions (TX), Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (KY), Senate Conference Chair Lamar Alexander (TN), and NRSC Chair John Cornyn (TX).

*** Just wonderin’: But it does seem as if Michael Steele is trying to win the early media war for RNC chair? In fact, because of Steele’s FOX News contract, he’s on the air daily talking to GOP partisans who watch that news channel. So it's a grassroots advantage that neither Saul Anuzis, nor Katon Dawson, nor others have. At what point do you put FOX down as an endorser of Michael Steele's campaign?

*** The remaining Senate races: In Minnesota, with about 18% of the vote recounted, the Minneapolis Star Tribune says that Norm Coleman’s (R) lead is now at 174 votes, down from the 215-vote lead that was certified on Tuesday. “Franken's gain owed much to a swing of 23 votes in the Democratic stronghold of St. Louis County -- the result of faintly marked ballots and older optical scanners that failed to read the marks.” … And for the Georgia run-off, there’s tons of coverage of Bill Clinton campaigning yesterday for Jim Martin (D). and

*** More on Minnesota: The Minnesota recount is going to be some story to follow. In addition to the Star Tribune is doing its best to update the count by incorporating new tallies into the official count, Minnesota Public Radio is posting various ballots being challenged. This, in fact, is hours of fun.

Countdown to Georgia Senate run-off: 12 days
Countdown to Electoral Vote Count: 49 days
Countdown to Inauguration Day 2009: 61 days

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Comments

In fact, because of Steele’s FOX News contract, he’s on the air daily talking to GOP partisans who watch that news channel.
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Are you saying that Fox News is a shill network for the conservative movement?! I'm SHOCKED!

[/sarcasm]

http://thepajamapundit.com/

the Pajama Pundit (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:36 AM)

Governors Napolitano and Sebelius would be great choices for Obama's Cabinet, so much better than the current crop of deadbeats of the current misadministration.

"Clara in Kansas City, could you be any more self-righteous and condescending when you write? We'd all like to be as smart as you are, of course, but not everyone can quite achieve that disdain for anyone who might actually have the nerve to disagree with you." The Audacity of Snobbery

Hey Audacity of Snobbery - Have you already forgotten all the self-righteousness and condescension of the past 8 years as you repugnant ones trashed us Liberals and Democrats? Maybe if you spent more time reading intelligent books and news articles instead of whining you could be smart too!

"Dearest Clara: The market is all about the future and is nothing about the past. Obama has stated he intends to raise taxes like income taxes, corporate taxes, capital gains taxes."
JT - New Orleans

Hey JT - The market is now all about "Psychology" instead of sound economic fundamentals as it used to be around 40 years ago. It's about expectations and past performance as in did some company meet expectations for the past quarter or year. When one forgets history one is doomed to repeat it and you fools forgot about what caused the Great Depression and now you've managed to doom us all to relive it. The markets are nothing but legalized gambling and only a fool would put money into it.

Stop whining about raising taxes because the deficit financed tax cuts of the past 28 years of Tinkle Down economics have driven us into this deep credit hole. When Ronny Raygunz took office the national debt just hit a trillion dollars and the debt service was $35 billion. Now with the debt over $10 trillion the debt service is over $400 billion and now we are all suffering from the irresponsible tax cut welfare given to the rich and greedy. Your vaunted tax cuts were a short term benefit that has become a long term negative drag on our economy. By proposing to rebuild our consumer based economy from the bottom up Obama does have a good plan to fix the problems you irresponsible spoiled brats caused and by upping taxes on the rich and greedy he is doing the responsible adult thing by trying to balance the budget. We've had 28 years of wealth redistribution upwards and now we need to right the imbalance by redistributing it back downwards. Before trashing us Dems you should understand how the economy works instead of paying homage to feel good lies that only help get crooked repugnant one politicians elected.

Eric, Salinas, CA (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:41 AM)

I hope the politicians realize that if millions of people in the auto industry end up out of a job, please remember that it also affects their parents, brothers & sisters, in-laws, etc. I’m in a similar situation and have to help out all the time financially. And because of that, I was unable to not only give the Obama campaign as much money as I would have liked, but it also prevents me from doing things I had planned for years to do. Also, charities I like to give to have moved to the bottom of the pile. This is not a complaint. This family member does not have credit card debt, he works two jobs, but his wife was laid off. Three children are involved and day to day cost of living expenses are huge these days.

The executives in the auto industry are so typical. At every turn it is the workers who have always had to pay the price for top management incompetence. Get rid of the management. Keep the workers. It’s only their livelihoods at stake here.

Have a heart – someone, somewhere in DC. A brain wouldn’t hurt either.

I think Hillary and Bill Clinton have handled themselves quite well these past few months. Publically. And I hope she does become Secretary of State. However, no where does it say Barack Obama HAS to select her. What’s with the media these days? Why does everyone assume this was a bad idea, if it doesn’t work out for her? We should all know that historically nothing is easy when it comes to the Clintons. And if there is any possibility that she’s not a good fit with this Administration, so what? Barack Obama DOESN’T HAVE TO DO ANYTHING the media says he has to do. He won’t be “stuck” with her. He’s considering her because he feels she has earned it. Period. This is an important position. The most important position in his Administration. And because of that, there should be no toleration of anyone who may undermine him and what he wants to do internationally. If that’s the case, she should be OUT. That goes for everyone considered for top positions.

Pat, Boston, MA (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:41 AM)

Como se dice, "Shut out"?

Wait in line! How many African Americas have been PASSED OVER while CONSISTANTLY giving majority allegiance to the Democratic Party line for Decades. Hispanics shouldn't be expecting everyone to jump high for them because they voted for the most capable candidate.

Frannie (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:43 AM)

Como se dice, "Shut out"?

MSNBC doesn't hire any on-air PERSONALITIES of the non-white persuasion much at all.

Frannie (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:44 AM)

No transition process is going to be perfect in politics. The individuals who are picked for posts in Government have passed Obama's tests. From what I am reading they are very difficult too pass successfully. Obama is a deep thinker, and he reads a lot of different sources at once. In the end, Obama will make his choices in a very Presidential fashion. As for Minnesota, this is turning into a pathetic mess with no end in sight. That is fact!

Rock,Janesville,Wisconsin (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:45 AM)

I find the media's behaviour surrounding the possibility that Hillary Clinton could be the next Secretary of State quite comical.

First, you report every backroom rumor you hear as a fact. Then, when the rumors contradict one another, you imply that the Obama campaign is "mishandling" the transition. What a joke!

Let me offer some perspective:

Sometimes, when you are attempting to BUILD something, it takes TIME.

What we are witnessing is called THOUGHTFULNESS.

There is NO RUSH to name Hillary Clinton or any other cabinet member. So if it takes from now until January 19th for the President Elect to assemble the team HE WANTS the way HE WANTS to build it, why does that have to be a problem?

What is the big deal about allowing the media to know the names of various cabinet level selections before the official announcement? Is President Elect Obama expected to make every decision over the next four years at an official press conference surrounded by his "court"? Let's get real folks.

Why is the media wringing its collective hands and acting like the apocalypse is upon us because Senator Obama wants to put Bill and Hillary Clinton to work for the American people?

This is not about "the Clintons". This is not about Barack Obama. This is about saving the United States of America.

The media needs to recalibrate itself to stop looking for every perceived slight and political point scored, and start looking at how these decisions are either working or not working to build the COALITION required to bring REAL CHANGE to American politics, and most importantly, the American people.

In the end, that is all that matters.

And THAT is the CHANGE that we have all been waiting for.

Nashville_fan (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:49 AM)

What's the wait on Treasury? Wouldn't that be the most important post to fill? Or is Obama such an economics expert that he can just do it himself?

Eric, Salinas CA (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:52 AM)

I still don't understand why the NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions (TX) isn't out since he too collected money from Abramoff? How'd he escape the scandal?

Brian, Cedar Hill, TX (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:54 AM)

As a white person I'm peeved that Hispanics are getting shorted on important Cabinet and government positions. Bill Richardson should certainly get a good position for his brave support of Obama. I live, work and play with these fine people daily and they deserve to be properly represented in our new government.

I sure hope that Franken gains more votes every day so that he overtakes that foaming at the mouth miscreant Coleman. I wish Obama would get down to Georgia to campaign for Martin as he will draw in more of the black vote for Martin. I'm so proud of Bill and Al for helping Martin out by campaigning for him.

If Harry Reid gets things done in the next two years and keeps the repugnant ones from screwing up progress with fillibusters then he should have no problems getting reelected.

Eric, Salinas, CA (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:56 AM)

My guess was that Janet Napolitano would run for McCain's senate seat, but with John planning to run and she has a great appointment in the Obama cabinet, Napolitano will be on the Obama team.

Kathleen Sabelius will on that team too.

Pundits talk pro and con regarding the Hillary appointment as SoS, but their comments are just...talk. My guess is she will take it, but her risk involves her personal political future. Would she stay for only one term? (like Colin Powell) The safe position is to stay in the senate, the more riskier road is to move on to the Obama team.

So where does that leave Bill Richardson? I don't know, but I do trust Obama will find an ideal spot for him. He will likely bring on other Hispanics to "calm the waters."

It looks like a recession is becoming a depression. It also looks like GM will file bankruptsy and reorganize. Actually I agree with Romney, Reorganization is better than a bail-out. The government just can't keep giving money away to large poorly managed corporations. Help for the guy on mainstreet during a depression is understandable. I'm expecting some creative solutions that haven't hit the media yet. Right now the Obama team is still getting their players in place.

Ron Indiana (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:56 AM)

Como se dice "Quit trying to stir up trouble with Hispanics"!

President Elect Obama is going to put together a team that will do MORE for Hispanic Americans than just give them a token spot at the table. This is not all about symbolism - this is about RESULTS.

The election was TWO WEEKS AGO - can President Elect Obama at least NAME his cabinet OFFICIALLY before the media starts whining about who has been left out? GEE WHIZ!

P.S. First, Bill Richardson is not the only Hispanic American in America. Two, you don't know that he is the bridesmaid for Secretary of State or any other position. Three, you would think after all the MISINFORMATION spread by the media in the primaries, you would have learned not to make such sweeping assertions based on so little evidence - but I guess old habits die hard. Kind of sad.

Nashville_fan (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:58 AM)

After the election of Obama, I was feeling really good about the wisdom of the American people.

Of course, then reality hit when I read that Morning Joe is now rated 2nd in it's time slot and gaining viewership ... surely that's a mistake!!!

62 white female for Obama (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:01 AM)

The best way to get to 60 Senate seats is for the democrats to poach a few moderate republicans like Snowe and Collins to turn to the light side. Those two ladies from Maine would make excellent Democrats. Reid ought to entice them with good Senate postings if they come over to our side.

The repugnant ones are becoming the bible belt party and they will lose more and more support around the rest of the country unless they ditch the evangelical christian lunatic fringers who have hijacked the party and destroyed it with their sinful hateful ways.

As long as we are getting new people into government that are not "Tryrant" Bush huggers we are getting the change we need! The Obama team are making good choices of getting experienced Clinton folks in with new faces from around the country. They need to find out what Brown can do for them by getting some Hispanics into the mix. Also some Asians so we have a nice representative Rainbow Coalition!

Prison for Cheney and Gonzales!

Eric, Salinas, CA (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:02 AM)

"...Hispanics shouldn't be expecting everyone to jump high for them because they voted for the most capable candidate. ..." Frannie (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:43 AM)

"...Como se dice, "Shut out"?
MSNBC doesn't hire any on-air PERSONALITIES of the non-white persuasion much at all. ..." Frannie (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:44 AM)

Get ready Hispanic-Americans!
THIS is exactly what your'e are going to get from african american Obama supporters.
Hey...where's Domenico? Does "Frannie" need to take her "race medicine" too?
She's right though.
MSNBC talks a lot of crappola about race. But, it doesn't have more than a couple of black analysts on the air, and NONE writing for this website!
(How's it feel, Domenico?)

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:02 AM)

I think that at the end, Hillary will remain in the Senate. Why would you give up a pretty permanent gig to take a position that serves at the pleasure of the President. Besides, there should also be a Supreme Court opening coming in the next couple years.

Mark, Dunkirk, NY (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:02 AM)

BrianC, Longmeadow MA (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:03 AM)

So people are getting up in arms because those names "leaked" are either "Washington insiders" or not "Hispanic".
Chill people!!!
These are "leaked" names. Most positions have yet to be filled.
Yes, Obama may pick "Washington insiders". I would expect him to select some from Washington. Anyone getting upset because Holder and Emanuel were "in the Clinton administration" also needs to understand that the core change Obama spoke about was in governance, not cabinet selections.
I'm curious as to who naysayers believe SHOULD get cabinet posts. I can just hear the list of people they believe should be in the cabinet, people like:
Joe the Plumber
Todd Palin (hey Sarah's husband needs a job too)
Track, Trig and all the other little Palins in various Cabinet positions
And of course Sarah's got to be in there somewhere. Perhaps something in Immigration since she can see Russia from her house.

Bill Richardson will end up in Obama's administration. Stop worrying about no Hispanics being on his team (currently). That will change.

And for those of you tired of hearing Silly Sarah's name, I apologize.

Dan St. Louis, MO (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:03 AM)

Obama should pick his cabinet members and all other key personnel based on experience, brains and capability. Hispanics take note, if there is a Hispanic choice based on the three attributes mentioned above, I am sure it will happen. Otherwise, stop the entitlement whining just based on being a Hispanic.

Anne, Farmingdale, NY (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:06 AM)

If seems to me that Hispanics are the forgotten faces on the political front and on the commercials that we are hammer with now aday. I just do not see quite as many hispanics on TV now adays. Why?

Jesus Gonzales (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:08 AM)

"Eric, Salinas CA:
I want Obama to wait on Treasury, because this is going to be a tricky one. He has to get this right or there will be hell to pay, so I am ok with the wait at this point. There is no "rush" on this pick in my mind. Vet and get it right the first time, because our economy is in bad shape.

Richard (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:11 AM)

The last position that the Obama Transition Team wants to rush is the Secretary of the Treasury. This is a very important position to fill, and that is exactly why Obama needs to set the experience bar higher. Rushing to pick anyone for this crucial position would be a huge blunder economically, and politically. The more facts that are examined right now. The better!

Rock,Janesville,Wisconsin (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:18 AM)

Since Hillary Clinton's name has been released as a contender for the SOS slot, there has been nothing but high drama ever since. She would be very capable and could bring much expertise to the job, but Bill's dealings could be a problem during the vetting processing.

Now, it seems that Hillary is playing coy about taking the position if offered. Can you ask for more drama with this lady? Bill Richardson was always my first choice for SOS and if the drama continues, withdraw the offer from HRC and give it to Richardson.

61 more days until the Inauguration!

J. Ellis, Virginia (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:18 AM)

I guess Eric in Salinas has to speak up for his imaginary friend Clara in KC. Fine, I'll speak up for the Audacity of Snobbery. Bush promised the same 'getting beyond the bickering' and 'post-partisanship' that Obama promises. They ALL do that. NOBODY succeeds. But we're all expected to show Obama the same courtesy that Bush asked for, and no one ever gave him, because Democrats were so busy whining and crying about Al Gore losing. Now liberals want a different set of rules for their Messiah.

Liberalism is a disease (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:18 AM)

Are you going to tell me that African-Americans should be considered to fill cabinet position because they have been waintting longer than Hispanic-Americans?
With many talented Hispanic individuals ready to take those cabinet positions, the Hispanic-American population growing and being larger today than the African-American population, the Obama transition team should be careful not to understimate the weight of the Hispanic-Americans in future elections.

Hispanics Now

C Montoto, Miami, Fla (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:23 AM)

I'm Hispanic and I voted for Obama. I want him to appoint the best and the brightest. White, black, Asian, Hispanic etc...

DXB Hooper (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:23 AM)

"...Como se dice, "Shut out"?
Wait in line! How many African Americas have been PASSED OVER while CONSISTANTLY giving majority allegiance to the Democratic Party line for Decades. ..." Frannie (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 9:43 AM)

Interesting comment Frannie.
Because, that's exactly the way it should have been for Obama and The Presidency.
Hillary was/is a more qualified leader with more experience and widsdom. She was also senior to Obama within the national party.
So why shouldn't Obama have waited in line for his turn to run?
This is a clear indication of what we're in for these next four years. ObaMANIACS and their mentor express one set of rules...but they live by another.
Get ready America...THIS is what's coming your way.

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:24 AM)

Why should the ethnicity of his appointies matter?Notice I did not mention race because Hispanics are not a race any more than Americans can be called a race. We need to get past this folly. Let Obama select the most qualified people for the job.

Marina- Los Angeles (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:24 AM)

Republican's are showing they care more about Wall Street, than Main street on the Auto Rescue Loan(They wanted Bailout changed to rescue several weeks ago).There has been No outrage directed at AIG employees for the $140 Billion they've gotten so far.
AIG has received 1/3 of the 1st $350 Billion Rescue plan to date!

The GOP had better rethink how they want to start out with the incoming Obama administration. The voter's, a couple week's ago showed the GOP how fedup we were with their Wall Street 1st mentality.They continue down this Perilous path in rejecting Loan's for the Big 3 Automaker's.

Barack will draw the line come 1-20-09 & if the GOP wants any kind of Voice, they'd better come off their High Horse & help pass this Loan for the Big 3.

Our President elect can only do so much, as Cowboy George still has the reins till 1-19-09. Hopefully America & the World can hold on that long, only time will tell.

I read where the Non Union Foreign auto company's opperating in the South, don't give their employee's health benefit. Why is That? My son-in-law works for a non-union coal company( AT Massey) & they pay their employee's well, Provide Health benefit's & Paid Vacation's. Without Union organizers putting their Lives on the line many year's ago, the Wages & benefits now enjoyed by many, would'nt be possible.

You may not care for the Union(of any kind), but without them, we' would be No better than any other 3rd world country with sweat shops, etc.

Rick,Ky (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:25 AM)

The media needs to recalibrate itself to stop looking for every perceived slight and political point scored, and start looking at how these decisions are either working or not working to build the COALITION required to bring REAL CHANGE to American politics, and most importantly, the American people.

nashville fan, that comment needs to be said over and over and over and over until the media and certain pious bloggers here FINALLY get the point, stop their complaining, fingerpointing, and speculation, and start working in the BEST INTERESTS of our citizens and our country.

Dan St. Louis, MO (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:26 AM)

Liberalism is a disease (and I hope it's contagious) -
Grow a pair! I have been on this site for months and Eric is a DEAR friend (thanks, Eric)! We liberals don't need a different set of rules - but we want the argument from your side to be based in fact and reality. You people are still sitting over there acting like "W" was some kind of wonderful. Look around, the misbegotten war to avenge his papa has bankrupted our country. Oh, and did I mention that it was based on LIES? You people suck.
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had my own response yesterday - but after five attempts, it wasn't posted. Let's see how today goes:
JT - New Orleans (Sent Wednesday, November 19, 2008 11:04 AM)

Some people may use the market as a futures crystal ball, speculation on the future P&L (earnings); but the more conservative approach is to invest in the balance sheet (valuation). Equity is every bit as important as earnings per share. All risks are not equal. To blame Obama for the current state of the market is immature and unreasonable. That was my point, my dearest JT.
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The Audacity of Snobbery (Sent Wednesday, November 19, 2008 10:59 AM)

You are right, my tone was condescending. I’m glad you picked up on it. I am sure you went back and read what Lazy Jane had to say? I mean there was no disdain or hate in her remarks, right? Every day I read the hateful, snide remarks posted against Obama. For the most part, I share my opinion and I don’t really react. When the remarks cross over into factual inaccuracies, I take umbrage and then I take action. It seems to be so easy for so many to spew Limbaugh talking points. I don't mind if you disagree with me, just do your own research and have your own opinion, not some random $hit someone else just made up. I don’t hang out here for your approval. But thanks for playing.

Clara Kansas City, MO (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:28 AM)

"NBC Political Director Chuck Todd offers his first read on the Clinton’s trying to force Barack Obama’s hand on the secretary of state position"
The latest episode in "As the stomach turns". This is unbelievable and a lot of the electorate are feeling conned by the "change" mantra. It is heartbreaking to find out that the Clinton's are really running the show.

Elmer, Seattle (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:29 AM)

Leaks, are these real - not necessarily the accuracy in question but a leak by most definitions is a surreptitious divergence of information.

Is it only me or does the definition limp when it is applied to what is occurring within the Obama camp now and set in contrast with campaign's recent history?

When does a "leak" become fodder for the "chattering class" to keep them occupied? The Hilary-drama is a fine example as the fixation remains stalled in that spot and the transition wheels keep turning along unobserved and rather quietly. I would argue the other leaks are for the same reason - diversion.

What to do with Bill Richardson? I have no fear that he will be in a post in accordance with his skills and level of support to the Obama campaign. Treasury Secretary, well, the fiscal, like security, posts, I would guess they will be announced as a package deal when the time comes in their own time.

Right now, it is all about Hilary, Hilary, Hilary - good cover that!

Mike Groshong (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:29 AM)

Marina- Los Angeles (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:30 AM)

I really want Bill Richardson to have a spot in Obama's cabinet. Richardson put his reputation on the line to endorse Obama way back when, and got his head handed to him by James Carville. Richardson is competent on foreign affairs and would have been my choice for Secretary of State.

I can't believe Obama would overlook Hispanics in his cabinet, so I'm hoping that we'll soon hear a name or two.

Cindy Lou, TX (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:32 AM)

For those of you that think Republicans will cross party lines and vote with the Democrats, so you don't really need 60, there are just as many conservative Dems that will not blindly follow party lines.

Reality Check (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:33 AM)

The way I feel about it is that Obama can pick anyone he wants in his administration. After all, he is the one responsible for getting things done in Washington. I know he is giving his picks a great deal of thought and he wants to have people around him that knows what they are doing even if they have been in D.C. before. The change he wants is to be different from GWB.

JoAnn, Moundsville, WV (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:39 AM)

If I was Obama I'd put Bill Richardson in as Sec of State, and put Hillary in as Sec of Healthcare, in lieu of Tom Dashle. Hillary is all about healthcare, and Bill Richardson is highly experienced to handle our foreign relations.

David, Lewisville, TX (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:43 AM)

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:02 AM)

Actually - Athena Jones is black. She contributes regularly.

Clara Kansas City, MO (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:44 AM)

Just as an aside....One of the headlines today states "highest employment claims in 16 years." Let's see, 16 years ago is 1992...hhmmmm...wasn't that the last year Bush 41 was in office? Seems like when the Bushes/GOPs leave us a pile of something that stinks at our doorstep everytime they occupy the Oval Office. Must be that "trickle down economic theory" they so desparately wanted us to swallow. I am not sure about the rest of you but I hope the one victim of this financial crisis is this Reagan "voodoo economics" (any one remember that term?)
BrianC, Longmeadow MA (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:03

Brian, it's funny that you mentioned "trickle down economic theory" and "voodoo economics". In 1980, George Bush ran against Reagan in the Republican primary, calling Reagan's "trickle down theory" "voodoo economics". And yet both Bush Sr. and Jr. embraced that which Sr. originally said would break our country. Bush was right then, as we're now seeing the fruits of the trickle down economic theory. Too bad neither he nor Bush Jr. was smart enough to realize how true that original prediction was.

Dan St. Louis, MO (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:48 AM)

I notice a curious lack of asians in politics as a whole. Don't know if this comes from a "myob" attitude or something else, but it seems that they are underrepresented. Meanwhile, hispanics whine, whine, whine......

kathy (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:52 AM)

I am SO SICK of hearing how Obama's process is "bush-league." Did it ever occur to any of you, including those two bozos on Morning Joe (and I'm not talkin about Willie or Mike B) that it's the CLINTON side that is doing the leaking? But noooooooo, Joe has to ramble on like a sack of snakes about how badly Obama is blowing this. Obama has always prevailed, and he will again, even if he has to diss Hillbaby to do it!

LB, Virginia (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:54 AM)

Dear republicans: You know those tax increases that you are moaning about, they are going to be made to people just like those auto-execs that took their private jets to Washington. Tell me thruth, are you and Joe the Plumber really that upset about these people having to pay a bit more in taxes?

Oscar, Rio Vista CA (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 10:59 AM)

First read states:
If Democrats don’t reach 60 Senate seats this year -- * * * they’ll probably get there in 2010. Why? * * * Democrats are playing with a favorable hand. * * * Republicans will have 19 Senate seats to defend, including potentially challenging ones * * *Folks like John McCain (especially if Janet Napolitano runs, although that looks less likely right now), George Voinovich, and even Chuck Grassley might have real races on their hands or could be candidates for retirement.

Unfortunately the only way that Chuck Grassley will not win the the US Senate race in Iowa in 2010 is if he decides to retire. I do not understand it, and it makes no sense, but the GOP strongly supports him, and the majority of the center (where elections in Iowa are won or lost) believe he's a hard working good Senator.

I hope that Grassley retires, I'd say it's time for him to go back to the farm, he claims to love so much, but my guess is he wants to stay in office at least one more term until his Grandson Patrick is old enough to run for his seat. Patrick Grassley won't win the general election, but Chuck probably doesn't know that.

Sara, Cedar Rapids, Iowa (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 11:00 AM)

I won't be happy with everything. I am angry about Bush's rush to dispoil more of the countryside, work to eliminate rare species, and relax even more any restrictions on big business. His actions do reinforce the wisdom of electing Barack as opposed to McCain. McCain would have blessed every move George makes and double the damage for four more years. Obama will be a moderate. He has no wiser choice and that is where I am along with most Democrats. But, center is still far to the right in terms of world politics. At least we won't be continuing the direction of ignoring the good of all the people for the good of a few as we would have done under more Republican leadership.

mexed, san antonio, texas (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 11:00 AM)

Republicans have ruined this country with grande deficits, lost jobs, environmental decline, etc. etc. etc. Bush and the dumb republicans (just look at Palin) have done so poorly at governing that they deserve to be cast out of the system for 50 years at least.

Larry Narcisse, Round Rock, TX (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 11:00 AM)

I agree to "This is not about the Clintons". I watch MSNBC daily and wish the Press would stop the daily reports about Hill and Bill for a decision. Let's wait for Obama's choice. It's Obama's baby. He does have other choices to consider and should.

As for the Auto industry, Obama will do the rignt thing - Bush certainly dan't handle this!

Carmen - NH (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 11:00 AM)

When it was leaked that Hillary had traveled to Chicago to meet with Obama and it was for the SOS position, I thought it was a good choice. She would not have gone without certain info and criteria on the table, and I'm sure Bill knew the details beforehand, and what would be required for him to reveal. Given this opportunity, why is she being so passive/aggressive about it? You know what is expected so either want the job or you don't. Give us all a break and leave the drama behind.

On another note, I too am sick of Joe and Mika and I only started watching them in July, because I couldn't stand the new anchors of CNN in the a.m., I love the music choices, Willie, and all the guests that come and go,even Pat B., but they, in particular, hog all time and way too much advertising. So I will continue to watch/listen as the a.m. choices are few.

stephanie, ft. pierce, fl. (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 11:06 AM)

I have been listening to the media this past week and they are all blaming the Clintons for making "high-drama" for Barack. They should all sit back and listen to themselves because the only people making the high-drama is themselves. Ever since Andrea Mitchell LEAKED the story about Hillary Clinton being interviewed the media have been speculating this, that, and the other. I haven't heard one word out of Hillary's mouth to suggest that she is causing any drama. Bill Clinton has been playing ball regarding the vetting process and hasn't said one negative thing. Therefore, please tell me WHO are the real drama queens?

Oscar, Rio Vista CA (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 11:08 AM)

So many people have been saying "what happened to No Drama Obama" in regards to all these "leaks". I think Obama is a very intelligent man. I do not believe these are "leaks", I believe these are water testers...

Also, I did not vote for Obama because he was black as women would not vote for Palin because she was a woman. I voted for Obama because I felt he was qualified, as women did not vote for Palin because they did not feel she was qualified. I do not think he should pick Hispanics because of their nationality, but pick who is qualified...

Mrs. Jones, Chicago, Illinois (Sent Thursday, November 20, 2008 11:11 AM)

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