First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Steve NewYork NY — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:41:51 GMT

OBAMA ARROGANT ?
Is this the latest media attack on Barack Obama?
Plenty of issues affecting us but the media and the republicans have decided to settle on this?

This issue really bothered me ...But as I read a post on huffpo .. my spirits were lifted. Paul Jenkins got this right.
It was titled:

OBAMA STILL DOESN'T KNOW HIS PLACE.

When Barack Obama started running for president, he was widely described as arrogant for daring to take on the Clintons after just two years in the Senate.

This was despite the fact that polling at the time showed him to be the only threat to Hillary Clinton in the Democratic primary.

Eighteen-months later, we are told by the McCain campaign and its traditional media parrots that Obama is at risk of looking "presumptuous" for his recent trip abroad, even as he has registered a small but significant bounce in the polls upon his return, presumably for doing what most of us expect of a presidential candidate.

The man who slayed Democratic royalty, who has raised more money than any political campaign in US history, drawn record-breaking crowds in the US and abroad, who has been ahead of John McCain since widespread general election polling began four months ago, this man is presumptuous for thinking he has a good shot at becoming president and should therefore get to know his potential counterparts and visit the sites of US military activity?

Most candidates Obama's age will be charged sooner or later with youthful conceit for taking on their elders, no matter how guilty those elders are of mismanaging the country.

It happened to some extent to Bill Clinton, and surely to others before him. However, it is hard not to see in the ongoing attitude towards this presidential frontrunner, just three months before the election, something more uncomfortable that is not simply a matter of age, but one of race.

Throughout the primary there was a growing sense of disbelief in the Clinton camp that this young'un (older than Bill was in 1991 when he started running, mind you) really thought he had a shot at this.

Bill, in particular, showed little patience for Obama's "fairy tale" campaign, eventually going ballistic because, in his own version of "some of my best friends are," he did not understand that even he, whose office is in Harlem, may be condescending towards African-Americans, and towards this African-American in particular.

Perhaps more perniciously, some long-time African-American political and business leaders joined in with some of the worst stereotyping of the campaign, seemingly upset at the upstart who dared to go where most of them had not.

Now McCain is recycling some version of this superciliousness, heavily aided by a traditional media still so easily scared into thinking it is not tough enough on Obama.

McCain can hardly hide his rage at this uppity kid who thinks he can hobnob with world leaders just as he does -- who thinks he has more judgment than a septuagenerian war-mongering former prisoner of war.

And who sees no reason to wait his turn when barely 1 in 10 Americans think the country is on the right track, thanks to his elders' enlightened leadership. In a weird echo of the Clinton attacks, McCain smirks his way through one sarcastic comment after another, his face twisted in hatred and disbelief.

Not only is Obama "presumptuous," he also "doesn't understand.

" It is never clear what Obama doesn't understand since he actually has not gotten his facts or, so far, his analysis wrong, as opposed to McCain whose errors in fact and in judgment are so numerous as to make one wonder where he has been for the past 20 years (poring over Cold War era reports on Czechoslovakia? Hanging out at the Iraq-Pakistan border?
Plotting to bomb-bomb-bomb bomb-bomb Iran?). McCain is the most arrogant of Senators (not a light charge), yet even by his standards the tone he adopts towards Obama is so densely patronizing that here too it is hard to dismiss it as purely a matter of age gap.

McCain's joke of an economic advisor, Carly Fiorina, is now also laying it on thick: she is glad that Obama is consulting with experts.

This from the woman who nearly ran a Fortune 100 company into the ground and whose candidate knows so little about economic issues after three decades in Congress that Fiorina is reduced to repeating that McCain "has been understanding [economic issues] for months."

That Obama is actually able to listen to facts, absorb them and analyze them should be a good thing. We assume that those skills came in handy throughout his life, not least at Harvard, where he graduated near top of his law school class.

This, of course, now makes him an elitist, as he would not be expected by the old DC guard to possess any such competence (charisma perhaps, analytical ability no.)

Both McCain (894th out of 899 at Annapolis) and George W. Bush revel in their under-achieving school days, as if this made these scions of hyper-privilege any closer to real people.

This tactic clearly succeeded well enough for Bush to be elected president twice, and McCain to be nominated once.

But there is a sense that American voters may not be taken in again and that they may actually enjoy as president someone who isn't an inbred moron or a senile fratboy.

Obama's partner in elitism, his wife Michelle, is in extreme tongue-biting mode.
This is a shame, but it is inevitable, as she too is under the kind of scrutiny that would make Cindy McCain's face melt back into some approximation of reality.

It is widely understood that Obama is more deserving of close examination than McCain because she is more actively involved in her husband's campaign than Cindy is.
This of course is a lie: McCain has campaigned extensively for her husband and, were it not for her family fortune and her private jet, he wouldn't even have come close to being nominated.

The truth is that Obama is expected to play a certain role: strong, angry, overbearing, and every one of her statements is demeaningly parsed in that light.

If every word uttered by McCain were analyzed and reported to fit the stereotype of the rich, spoilt, husband-stealing white woman that she is, all would be fair.

But instead, we get adoring glances, little examination of her actual role and an occasional hiccup about Michelle Obama's lack of patriotism.

What angers John McCain and bemuses many traditional observers is how unflappable Barack Obama remains in public, no matter how condescending the attacks.

There is little doubt that the thick skin he grew over decades came in handy as he started to run for president.

The past 18 months surely were not the first time Obama was baited for being black, for being white, for being Muslim, or for not being from "here," and it must be fascinating, although not unexpected, for him to see these patronizing attitudes resurface at this stage of his life.

For the rest of us, what is fascinating is to witness how these old-school mindsets are backfiring on those who hold them, making them look less wise, more prejudiced, less fit to lead and altogether completely unappealing.

And to witness that in America in 2008, it is perhaps not a bad thing not to know your place.

Does He Know his place?

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Dan, New York, NY — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:42:22 GMT

The notion that Sebelius can't be picked because she's not Hillary is such an insulting notion to all women, that the theory in and of itself is sexist. Hillary supporters would accept another man but not another woman?

I would argue that any response along those lines will bring a backlash, and Sebelius' presence on the ticket will ultimately galvanize women, not turn them off.

A good case for her here:
http://strategy08.wordpress.com/2008/07/29/okay-i-give-in-my-case-for-kathleen-sebelius/

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Colleen, Ithaca, NY — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:44:02 GMT

MSBNC: You know the "narratives" you speak of? You have created them - or at least contributed greatly. If they are untrue or unfair, you are at least partly to blame. Maybe you should try to fix the damage you have done, rather than continuing to help create the problem, then analyzing it later.

We don't need "narratives" about the candidates. We need true, fair and accurate reporting without reporters own egos getting in the way.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:45:35 GMT

"Angry" warrior or "obsessed" warrior? I'd say McCain has crossed the line into obsession.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Ted, Kalamazoo, MI — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:45:59 GMT

Why does McCain get described as an "angry warrior?" The term "warrior" sounds like it's honorable in some way. He's whining, huffing, and puffing. At this point, he is not running an honorable campaign.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

BJ, CA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:46:36 GMT

Senator...could we please have those complete medical forms and military records released?
Senator McCain just what are you hiding?

"We are waiting...and we are prepared to wait until hell freezes over...", A.S.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Clara Kansas City, MO — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:46:57 GMT

When I see the word "GOPers", I dyslexically think gropers; which of course brings me to the sex scandals with the Repubs. Sometimes a headline is really worth a thousand words. Keep 'em coming Repubs, a scandal a week will work just fine.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Bev, LA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:47:04 GMT

I'm a 64 year old white working woman and I'm angry! Now CNN is spreading this garbage. I was defending CNN against Joe on MSNBC when I wrote the following to them.

MSNBC GET RID OF JOE SCARBOROUGH! He belongs at Fox. He is so adament about Obama's "uppitiness" that it's almost RACIST. He continues to hammer away at Obama's statements that the world is watching and waiting for America to come back to it's greatness and he's a symbol for it. (Is it not obvious after his trip abroad?) If it was Bush or McCain saying that they were the hope of America fighting terrorism by their phony war he would hail them as being patriots! I"m so disgusted I had to turn him off. If this continues, I'll only watch MSNBC when Keith is on and will encourage my friends (that I told to watch MSNBC as un-biased) to turn all of you off again and go back to CNN (not sure of that now). CNN and MSNBC stop this Obama bashing! You let McCain go free from so many outrageous comments and flip-flops but you incessantly go after Obama's every word. AS A WHITE person I'm offended at this seemingly racial bias.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

GDI in Michigan — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:48:11 GMT

FR team- Love your work just a little constructive criticism. The "First thoughts" catch all your jamming too many issues into it. Once responses get around 50 its too cumbersome. Please try to break it up a bit.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Chris, MI — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:48:16 GMT

If Kathleen Sebelius is rejected as a Veep candidate solely on the basis of potentially alienating Clinton supporters, it will be a sad day for anyone claiming to be a supporter of womens' rights. Is Clinton the only woman allowed above the glass ceiling?

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Nashville_fan — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:49:28 GMT

"Regardless of the context now, this narrative has been ready to explode at some point and even a misreported quote was enough to spark this arrogance watch. "
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
What does it say about the state of modern "journalism" that you could even write this and not be ashamed?

Even a MISREPORTED QUOTE is ENOUGH? Really? WTF is the point if the ACCURACY of the story is IRRELEVANT?

So basically, you are saying that it doesn't matter if it's true, that is the NARRATIVE that we have decided to tell? Truth be damned.

It's enough to make me just wanna throw in the towel sometimes.

The news media have become nothing more than a roving pack of jackals, seeking to devour someone.

You all are shamelessly admitting that you MAKE STUFF UP to fit a NARRATIVE! Back in the old days, that was called LYING!

I can't believe so many Americans are relying on NARRATIVES which are MADE UP by the media to make their decisions. I hang my head in shame.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Bill, Gainesville, FL — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:50:53 GMT

Good to see some criticism (finally) for McCain's lies about Obama--he's managing to play the media like a fiddle.

And hey, if McCain really backed the Gore plan he'd drop his mantra of drill, drill, drill.

McCain in 2000: Moderate maverick
McCain in 2008: Neocon hack
Change we've all witnessed, change we've all despised.

Obama/Bayh--doing the competent thing for our nation and the world.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Andrea, New York City — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:51:05 GMT

Michelle has always been a more down to earth counter balance to Obama but remember THE MEDIA HOUNDED HER TO DEATH and BRANDED her to be an angry BLACK WOMAN and shunned her away from the media.

Imagine if that happened to you!!

She is and always has been quite charming, intelligent, sensitive, smart and sincere. You never took the time to examine the subtleties and thinking that black folks have within this society. So maybe you have finally learned a lesson!

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Ron Indiana — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:51:31 GMT

Last night I watched David Gregory's "Race to the White House and it dawned on me that with the exception of Richard Wolffe, David and the panel don't see what is happening. Obama is playing good defense, not offense. What do I mean?
1) Obama is being (not acting) Presidential to ward off charges that he may not appear Presidential. 2) Obama goes to Europe and Middle East to ward off attacks that he lacks foreign policy experience. It just happens that he looks Presidential. 3) Obama defends himself against attacks that he cannot pass the Commander-in-Chief test, as he stands up to/with General Petraeus. In sports you win championships with defense.
Now for the idiot comments that Obama was presumptuous by saying, "we have a good chance of winning". Is David and the panel too young to know that that is exactly what you should say to prospective donors? Then David wanted the panel to talk about "flaws in the Obama Camp". He didn't talk about McCains negativity. That's when I realized Race to the White House is a lame duck.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

MIA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:51:38 GMT

The GOPers have to get the hell out this year. They have done a horrible job in running the county and as usual the Dems have to come and clean up behind them.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Pete - Albany, NY — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:51:59 GMT

Sorry...need to rewind to a couple of posts from late last night...

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Polls don't lie libbies, and your guy is now losing. America knows a Preacher when they see one (Obama) and a President (McCain). No amount of news fluff on Obama is going to break through that barrier.
Ron Hinkelmeier, Redding CA (Sent Tuesday, July 29, 2008 5:36 PM)

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Go back and read Chuck's assessment yesterday of the Gallup/USA Today poll and just how messed up it is...even Gallup says the "Registered Voter" model is more reliable than the "Likely Voter" model that has McCain ahead right now.

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Heard this p.m. the Wall Street Journal wrote today that Obama's policies will drive us into deeper recession.
concerned former democrat (Sent Tuesday, July 29, 2008 6:22 PM)

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Hey, isn't that Rupert Murdoch's Wall Street Journal?

...as in News Corp?

...as in FOX Noise?

I thought so...kinda sums it up right there!

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Nashville_fan — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:52:37 GMT

"For McCain, the potentially damaging narrative is that he has become the angry warrior -- lashing out harsh and lately unsubstantiated attacks against Obama. "
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
"Lately unsubstantiated attacks"?

HUH?

John McCain and his SURROGATES are FLIP FLOPPING LIARS! Why are you trying to sugar coat it?

Nevermind. I know why.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Kim W Virginia Beach VA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:52:45 GMT

After going through the channels and catching a snippet of Morning Joe, I have decided that watching the creepy Clee Irwin tout his latest colon cleansing product is far more interesting than any of the diarrhea that spews from Joe Scarborough's mouth

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Jerome — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:52:55 GMT

Amen, Chris from MI! The Clinton people who are not wanting Sibelius or another woman are essentially saying that a white guy would make them feel better. Some feminists!

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

MI Chick — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:53:32 GMT

"He needs to remember that he's latching on to the anti-Bush coattails; any Democrat would be up right now. By the way, where are Michelle Obama’s comments about her stinky and snorey husband? He could use the self-deprecation."

OK...EWWW! I don't talk about my "stinky and snorey husband" in public either. What the...is this, FR? We now need to know his personal hygiene habits? GROSS!
--------------------------
I know that this board is not a referendum on "Morning Joe", but I know several of us watch it and so, I pose a question to my fellow bloggers.

Joe was reacting to someone from NJ's e-mail about his analysis. He reacted in his typical snarky way about cheeto-eaters, but he and Pete Hamill said something else that caught my attention.

(I am paraphrasing.)

The strong reactions we all have, as well why we are on the Internet talking about this and blogging with each other is that we are all ideologues. They went on to say the ideology is used in the place of rational thought - that "we" (bloggers) cannot have a civil and intelligent conversation about politics.

WHAT?

Obviously he doesn't get out of his bubble long enough to read FirstRead, even though Chuck's on his show all the time. I think that most of us (who aren't trolls) have civil conversations with each other, whether we agree or not.

I was curious if anyone else heard this and what you thought...

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Andrea, New York City — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:55:37 GMT

Shame on Dana Milbank for misquoting Barack. Will it ever end?

Doesn't Obama have enough problems without making up more lies!!

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

sotiredofignorance — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:58:11 GMT

The feeling I get is that Senator Obama has run such an excellent campaign that First Read et al have to find something, ANYTHING, to try to catch him on. I am glad that you printed the entire quote, but the problem is this (paraphrasing Winston Churchill)..."A lie can get halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to get its pants on." That is shameful, and journalists are supposed to be seekers of truth, not spreading gossip.

There is no excuse for MSNBC to continue to run "Morning Joe". Rachel Maddow should be brought in immediately so that it appears that MSNBC has some pride in the programming it offers. Sadly, Don Imus is off this week, so will hack out on my horse. The mornings are too pretty to waste inside on Joe's ignorance.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Michael, Anchorage — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:59:00 GMT

"By the way, the Stevens indictment is actually a potential opportunity for McCain, who has never been a fan of the pork-barrel senator and has had his share of clashes with the man. But so far, we haven’t heard a peep on this from McCain..."

The problem for McCain and Republicans is the issue cuts both ways. He could use it to blast pork barrel spending that Stevens was known for, but the problem that got him into trouble was his connections with the oil industry, not his projects. For McCain and Republicans, drilling has seemed to be the issue they were going to try to turn the election around on these past few weeks. Now, not so much...

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

idtt, laurel, md — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:59:13 GMT

Laura from Boston, you are missing the point. Sen Obama's campaign funded his trip to Germany (which is why he gave a speech there as opposed to the CODEL that went to the Middle East). I think what the Obama Campaign freaked when the Pentagon told them the visit (no matter who came with him) would be considered a campaign event. He's taken his lumps, but I think Sen McCain's attack ads would have more bite (because it would have been ya know TRUE!) if he could level the accusation that Sen Obama would "use the wounded troops as another notch in his campaign belt". Tricky stuff this politics thing. Like for instance, you take issue with him saying "his chances are good", how exactly does one address his supporters in that type of situation? Do you disagree that his chances are good to win this election? Personally, I don't see anything wrong with the specific comments, HOWEVER I do think there's a danger the media pundiots and Sen McCain can continue to paint a narrative that he's "arrogant" even when he's not. They've shown the facts don't matter, just our perceptions of them. Case in point, Sen Obama was hammered all last week because he said "he probably would've voted the same way about the surge" and Sen McCain was barely asked about his original vote to go into Iraq. He still claims he was right. Both are being incredibly stubborn about a easy issue to agree with (surge work, i was wrong or in retrospect we were mislead by the evidence and did not need to invade). But one is getting labeled as arrogant. How come?

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

JR, NY — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:59:17 GMT

JOE SCARBOROUGH GOTTA GO!! BASHING OBAMA WHILE MCCAIN GETTING AWAY WITH MUDER!!WHY'S THE MEDIA GIVING MCCAIN A FREE PASS?..AND PLEASE CHUCK, DON'T REFER TO MCCAIN AS A "WORRIER".......WORRIERS DON'T COMPLAIN AND SNITCH!!

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Alan, NJ — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:59:46 GMT

I see BO supporters beginning to throw the racist charge around again. They can't believe that "the one" is only ahead by the margin of error. It can only be because he is black.

No it's because he's a jugheaded, first term senator that wants to raise taxes on anything he can. He is an academic snob (and I said this last year) who acts like a know it all. ("I went to Iraq and in my day there it proved I was right").

Also, he wants to increase the war in Afghanistan but has not articulated what is the exit strategy. Anybody see parallels to the 60's here.

I am getting fed-up of the racist charge and the stupid name calling on this board. Here's a few for the Obamas....Jughead, Dumbo...and for Maichelle two-bagger.

BTW I think McCain is hopeless but at least I know he won't take every penny I have.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Pat Huntington NY — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:00:03 GMT

I feel that everyone should calm down over Obama's VP pick...whoever he picks, he/she will be better than anyone McCain is contemplating. All Dems. should accept and celebrate whoever Obama picks, and not let this be another thing that could divide our party. Seems like whenever one group of Dems don't get their way, they slam their arms with fists to the sides, and stomp their feet like a 4 year old having a temper tantrum [sound familar PUMAs and other disgruntled Hillary supporters?]. I say, Dems should take a cue from the Republicans, and unite behind the party and the judgment of the party leader. Plain and Simple! This former Hillary supporter has done that, and all should do the same!

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Judy Richards, NM — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:00:36 GMT

Bev LA I'm a 64 year old white working woman and I'm angry! Now CNN is spreading this garbage. I was defending CNN against Joe on MSNBC when I wrote the following to them.

MSNBC GET RID OF JOE SCARBOROUGH!

---------------

My. So much for seeking diverse opinions. I guess covering your eyes and ears is easier then dealing with the truth.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

donna — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:00:45 GMT

But Stevens represents everything McCain's been running against inside the GOP for a decade. He ought to embrace his downfall before the GOP's tarnished brand stains him with this......

-First Read

*******************************

You cannot be serious. "Stevens represents everything McCain's been running against"?.......

Running against corruption is not akin to not being corrupt. Remember Elliot Spritzer? No? How about the Keating 5? Senator John McCain is no choir boy, 'er, elder!

******************************************

Yesterday, when offering her chosen op-eds, Mika came across one that clearly she dreaded the reaction she was sure to draw from Scarborough. It looked like a real cotton mouth moment for her. It is hard to watch her day after day. The cringe moments abound come 6 am, Monday through Friday on MSNBC.

Mika Brazinski on ‘Morning Joe’ is a hardworking woman. She should be treated with more professional, and personal respect. I don’t understand how her father can be so cordial to Scarborough, given the way he treats her. She is barked at day after day. She is often scolded, even bullied in order to stifle her opinions. It works. She is the constant brunt of mocking jokes. Joe, Giest, and some of the frequent male guests, jab at her the morning through over her beauty, views, and supposed countless crushes. They laugh at, and tease her relentlessly. Mika, if this reaches you, please stand up to the jerks. Only cowardly weaklings treat others as you are. Get ‘em off ya! You can do it. Think of your daughters, and the strong example you want to set for them, and ours too.

**********************************************

Speaking of Mika, and her plight, there is an issue I need to address below:

Adam, St. Louis wrote:

Donna,
You said "Decent people cheer others on who with hard work, and determination find success. It matters not the color of their collar."

Now, first off I AGREE!!!! Success is earned not given and should be applauded. However, because I am a business owner and I make more than 250,000 a year, (according to Obama) I should get taxed more for my success right? So by what you said, Obama is NOT decent because MY taxes will get raised, I am not being cheered I am being cheated out of MY hard earned money. The government didn't GIVE me my money I earned it! So, Even though I pay over 30% to taxes. What do you pay? Jealousy (and yes that is all it is) gets people nowhere. People want money? GO AND GET IT!!!! I did! I personally think, that I deserve NO MORE and NO LESS tax then everyone else! I bet you pay 18%. I would LOVE to pay 18%. It is so easy in this country to make money.......

I had NOTHING, no college no NOTHING! and I was able to open and run a successful business. YOU CAN TOO!!!!!!

If you don't like your lot in life CHANGE IT and stop waiting for someone else to change it for you!
Adam, St. Louis (Sent Tuesday, July 29, 2008 11:43 AM)

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Adam,

It would seem that to you, a blue collar American is like a red flag to a bull. With the tiniest snippet of a person’s profile, in your prejudice, and rage, you jump to incredulous conclusions with an arrogance that diminishes your credibility.

My husband, and I, though blue collar, own businesses just as you do. His is skilled service oriented. Mine is one of fine, hand made artisan jewelry. Though I work with gold, silver, pearls, and many other precious gems, as I labor with my drills, and my tools, my threads are those of a laborer. My husband is also employed by Carnegie Mellon University as a skilled technician. Like you, neither of us has a Bachelor of Science degree.

Another source of income into my household are the honorariums I receive as a lecturer. Universities, Colleges, High Schools, Seminary Schools, Churches, Mosques, Scouting Organizations, etc., invite me regularly. I have lectured at Harvard Law School. I tell you this not to brag, but to set you straight.

You have no idea as to our tax bracket. Blue collars are not synonymous with poverty, laziness, jealousy, or a lack of ambition. Yes, there is good money to be made in America. Many of us have been blessed with plenty. Now our Country needs our help for it’s healing. I believe to whom much is given, much is required. So states The Scriptural Authority. If Senator Obama raises taxes should he be elected, my family will be honored to do our part to help bring our nation back from the brink, just like patriotic Americans eagerly sacrificed during WWII. If it makes you feel better, he Obama’s will be anteing up too.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

BJ, CA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:01:13 GMT

If one really looks at John McCain....
I see Napoleon Bonapart, short, war monger and in love with himself...that's guy we need in the Oval Office...NOT!

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

C.K. Steele Fort Lauderdale, FL — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:02:33 GMT

Well I've been in day 3 of my Morning Joe semi-boycott (I've watched the Chuck Todd and Erin Burnett sections). Lies are seen as good if they're used against Sen. Obama--at least that's what the media says. That is the only way to attack him. Distort his words, parse his words, or just make up lies about him and make it into a 5-6 day story. I'm glad that McCain's cancer results came back negative. I don't want there to be any excuses when he takes this beatdown.

The indictment of Ted Stevens is a huge negative for Sen. McCain. I like the spin but, as long as that (R) is behind his name, it is all bad for John McCain. Stevens' arrogance is going to make this even worse because he will fight this to the end and will keep this in the news a lot longer than the GOP is comfortable with. He might even roll over on a few more of his GOP cohorts. If McCain attempts to smack him he may get smacked back. Anyone remember the Keating 5 or the Airbus deal or the telecom deal that McCain was involved in? This will just put another albatross on John McCain's neck.

It doesn't matter who Sen. McCain picks for his running mate because they all have a net negative. TPaw is boring, Mitt is the flop to McCain's flip, and no one has heard of Portman. I would love for Sen. Obama to choose Biden or Richardson but I trust his decision no matter who he picks. He has run the best campaign in the modern era and he has earned my trust.

P.S. Please pick Mitt, I dare you!

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

subgruvet, ok — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:02:46 GMT

It's kind of sad that the GOP has so eroded. The democratic party's always been more disjointed because of their inclusiveness. The country needs strong political parties. In my opinion the more the better. Bring on the Green, Socialist, Libertarians and Independents. Their participation should be welcomed. The republicans, particularly during the Clinton years became so hateful and willing to use dirty tricks it hurt the party. Bush/Cheney has just been the coup de gras.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Dottie Swarthmore PA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:03:18 GMT

Morning Joe today spent a great deal of time talking about the Washington Post quote credited to Senator Obama. Will they spend as much time tommorow talking about the entire quote from Senator Obama? Will they also talk about the unfairness of the Washington Post not to print the quote in its entirety?

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Dottie Swarthmore PA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:04:34 GMT

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Citizen of Rome in Decline — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:04:40 GMT

"The indictment of Sen. Ted Stevens (R-AK) is a BIG deal."

It is not! Only hetersexual act between two consenting adults is enought o bother the right wing in this country, including pediphile Congressmen and Santaors looking for sex in an airport bathroom.

Do you think the party that put GWB in the WH could be embarrassed about ANYTHING?

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Nashville_fan — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:04:48 GMT

To MI, Chuck:

Yep. I heard them say we are ideologues on Morning Joe. You know what I think?

Joe is a jacka$$, and his guests are polite people who don't want to call him on his BS (this includes the loveable but spineless Mika).

I think that the facts speak for themselves, Joe is a Republican shill, he runs down Barack Obama with made up BS daily, and gives John McCain a pass on all his flip flops and lies.

Then he gets defensive when somebody calls him on it, since all the people he meets every day are kissing his arse.

I try not to comment on Joe unless it is more ridiculous than usual. He's not worthy.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Matthew — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:05:45 GMT

DL in VA I grudgingly agree with you . . . because I don't know what to do anymore with the media.

Their 'concerted' efforts to paint Obama as arrogant, hubris and this other stuff reminds me of those old movies where it's back in the turn of the 20th century and when the 'Black Man' dares 'pass his place' he'd be lynched. Just like Emmet Till who dared whistle at a white woman and was beaten beyond recognition. They can't do that anymore, thank God, but there still is that 'reaction' to when a person of color goes against what is 'traditionally' the 'black status quos' for achievement and worldview. I just don't get it. They are trying to tell Obama, basically, to 'get back in your place'. How dare you act presidential? But . . . McCain goes to Colombia, Canada, Mexico AND ALL THE PLACES BARRACK WENT TO . . . and that was OK. They said he looks 'presidential' that is was 'good thing' to do. Obama does it and all of a sudden it is BIG problem! Andrea Mitchell for one, and the whole bunch at CNN (except Cafferty) are engaging in some serious character 'lynching' to pull Obama down, tarnish his image. The people pulling strings, the gatekeepers are sadly . . . nothing but racists . . . and they don't even know it! They feed the bias that still exists . . . and get higher ratings; it causes drama, a reality show feel. What a sad day for our country!

Tim Russert, why did you have to go now?

I really, really MISS Tim Russert!!!

I really mean that!

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Gary Schear, Bozeman Montana — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:06:11 GMT

Chuck, Thanks for reporting the context of the "I am a symbol" statement. Did you do that this morning on Morning Shill? I was watching but had my head in a bag of Cheetos (oven baked) every once in a while and I could have missed it. Anybody else see it?

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

siCK OF THE LIES — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:06:12 GMT

Chuck Todd and First Read,

This blog has become a complete joke, right up there with Fox News.

I'm sure Tim Russert is rolling in his grave. He expected more from you Chuck.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Citizen of Rome in Decline (But educated in the USA) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:06:19 GMT

"The indictment of Sen. Ted Stevens (R-AK) is a BIG deal."

It is not! Only heterosexual acts between two consenting adults is enough to bother the right wing in this country, including pedephile Congressmen and Senators looking for sex in an airport bathroom.

Do you think the party that put GWB in the WH could be embarrassed about ANYTHING?

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Amy B Portland, ME — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:07:32 GMT

Did First Read move? I usually click on Politics, then I see the donkey/elephant logo and I click there to find FR, but today I couldn't find you on that page, so I Searched the site. You can't hide from me! But seriously, how do I get to FR now?

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

AmericanInLondon — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:08:28 GMT

I don't know the context of the "symbol" and won't get into that...

...But the "odds of winning" statement was made during a fundraiser when he was trying to shake some money lose from donors...WHAT DO YOU EXPECT HIM TO SAY TO PEOPLE HE IS ASKING TO MAKE AN INVESTMENT IN A CAMPAIGN...THAT THE ODDS ARE THAT HE IS GOING TO LOSE AND THE MONEY IS GOING TO BE WASTED??!?!...

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Jay Jay - Informed Voter — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:09:15 GMT

While they stop and keep talking. We will move on

Let them say!!!

Obama 08

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Troy — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:10:15 GMT

Those who don't think Obama has an ego should spend some time around the DNC committee planning the convention in Denver. The committee learned the hard way about his view of himself when he began calling for using a football stadium for his acceptance speech without talking with anyone in the DNC hierarchy. Pelosi, Reid? Denver's mayor? None, and the taxpayer's going to get stuck with the tab. Thanks, BO.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

What are you 'really' saying, hmmmm? — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:10:21 GMT

Yep, let's misquote the 'uppity black man' demonize him and drive those shakey indepenants away. Barak, Barak, Barak don't you know the white house is no place for someone who is self assured. Poke fun at yourself because there is no way Americans can relate to confident, competent leader. Nope, no way Jose. Let's elect a clown, a sad one at that...that will make us all feel better about ourselves...right?

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Jen, MI — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:10:33 GMT

The truth comes out FINALLY on Obama's "arrogance" with entire quote and context.
Way to go press, media. Now what will they say about the damage they've done?..NOTHING!
Obama 08

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Bill, CA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:11:11 GMT

FR: Nothing on McCain's latest flip-flop on taxes? Not sure how even a magician like Karl Rove would be able to explain away the naked flip-flops inside of 3 days, including his campaign saying that he doesn't speak for the campaign. What's up?

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

GDI in Michigan — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:11:48 GMT

MI Chick
Don’t agree with you most of the time, but your right about the fact the most of us ( I would say an over whelming majority) can hold a civil conversation on politics.

Now back to the mud slinging.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Johnny-gone-crazy for one potent potentate! — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:13:33 GMT

"I am getting fed-up of the racist charge and the stupid name calling on this board."

So- in rich right wing fashion - I add my own (because I'm so sick of it).

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Maurice, Chicago — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:13:35 GMT

Chuck, I for one really appreciate the expertise and fairness you bring to NBC and MSNBC, but thought that you and Joe Scarborough's comments this morning were scandalous and bordered on irresponsible journalism. For you to take "hearsay" and elevate it to fact was beyond belief for this American who takes pride in our freedom of the press.

Who is arrogant, you or Barack Obaman when you later admitted that the comments quoted in the Washington Post article may have been taken out of context. Nothing is more humbling than to admit an error and apologize. Is that beneath you? At least we all know where Joe Scarborough stands as disgusting and repulsive as he was this morning.

Steve's comments hit the nail on the head. It is time for the media to take a look at itself.

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

Need some new coffee, CA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:13:54 GMT

Enough of the arrogant a** GOP Joe. I can get better and more balanced morning news from Fox and Friends. Mika acts like a silly sorority girl around him. She's much better and much smarter than that. And Joe is among the most condescending hosts that has filled a captain's chair in years. "You disagree with me," says Joe, "and I'll make fun of you with my lame Cheetos jokes."

First thoughts: Rock bottom for GOPers?

obama 08 — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:14:51 GMT

BTW I think McCain is hopeless but at least I know he won't take every penny I have.
Alan, NJ (Sent Wednesday, July 30, 2008 9:59 AM)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Alan, your entire post was completely ridiculous, but this last line was the real kicker. You must have been sleeping the last few days when McBush said that raising taxes was on the table. And then his campaign tried to backtrack and say that McBush doesn't speak for the campaign. HA!

You may want to open your eyes. Your little guy McBush isn't even competent enough to run his campaign, let alone the Free World. In case you haven't noticed he has to have his little wingmen Lieberman and Gramm by his side at all times to nudge him in the ribs and whisper in his ear.

Not sure if it's old age or just incompetence, but McBush is out of touch and clueless.

Stop trying to fool yourself.