First thoughts: Bush's line

the Pajama Pundit — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:50:16 GMT

The Republican Governors Association meeting kicks off today in Miami, where there will be plenty of opportunities to read the tea leaves for 2012.
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My question: Has there EVER been so much media hype and coverage of a Republican Governors Association meeting? Seriously.

Sarah Palin: A gift to the media.

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: Bush's line

Ms Jenny — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:55:30 GMT

"Are these new rules as strong as his language early in the campaign? No. Are these the strongest lobbyist rules for a White House transition that we've seen? ***YES***."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

So what's the problem? Obama refused to accept lobbyist or PAC money during the campaign. And as soon as he got the nomination, the DNC followed his lead. Now we have him laying out the most strict lobbyist rules for a White House transition. And yet despite ALL this, you ask "is he doing enough"? He's already done more than any other president in history... is that not enough?

First thoughts: Bush's line

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:58:08 GMT

Yes, of course Bush's unpopularity was an issue. If it wasn't, voters most likely would have kept the same party in power, given wars and domestic crises, etc.

FR: "During the sunset of Hillary Clinton's primary run, her supporters warned that Obama's failure to win Latino voters in the primaries spelled potential disaster for the general election. Those prognostications turned out to be overblown..."

Many of the arguments Clinton and her supporters were throwing out there in the last weeks were known to fly in the face of conventional wisdom. Primary results don't equal general election results. But those who don't know conventional wisdom are destined to argue against it. And every once in a while, they're right - conventional wisdom can change, meaning it was proved wrong somewhere along the line. But not often. It became conventional wisdom for a reason.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Pat, Boston, MA — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:58:42 GMT

Sarah Palin was a circus act, who entertained her audience. She ran on nothing. But she's not alone. The entire Republican Party stands for nothing. They never did. Their message in one word: exploitation. Of anyone and anything.

They are a shallow, hateful bunch. And the country recognizes them for who they really are.

So now we have a President who wants to work with people across the aisle. It's too bad the GOP will try & stop that from happening. They'll never change. They are only comfortable tearing others down, instead of looking for reasonable solutions for all Americans.

Problem solving is not their strong suit. Their niche is more in the anti-American propaganda world. McCarthyism.

That's okay. The rest of us will just keep moving ahead, putting into practice all the struggles that took place in the 19th & 20th centuries to make this all possible. By Americans who cared about other human beings, regardless of race or color or sex.

Sarah Palin was too late to matter. She didn't stand for anything, except entertaining gullible people and McCarthyism. Same for Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity and the rest of the ignorant big mouths all over the air waves. We're still going to listen to them. Only now they're not going to get away with their lies.

They're outnumbered. By millions.

America can do better and will do better, without Sarah Palin. She contributed nothing during the campaign.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Pat Huntington NY — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:59:29 GMT

The disgusting Mormon Church's activities regarding Prop. 8 should result in it losing its tax exempt status. It is no longer purely a religious institution...by directly injecting itself in a political matter - Prop 8 - it became a political institution and therefore no longer tax exempt.

On a higher note, thank you Connecticut for voting against holding a state constitutional convention that would possibly have overturned same sex marriage rights there, which are finally being conducted today.

Its a hallmark of democracy that the rights of the minority shall be protected from tyranny of the majority...this means minority rights cannot and must not be determined by majority rule. A system where the rights of the minority are determined solely by the majority, inevitably leads to oppression of the minority by the majority. The role of the courts is to protect the minority from the majority, and that is what was done in CA and Conn., but in CA, the majority was allowed to oppress its will against the minority...that so called majority lead by the horrible Mormon Church will soon learn they cannot get away with what they did. Equal Marriage Rights by ANY MEANS NECESSARY!

First thoughts: Bush's line

Eric, Salinas, CA — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:59:34 GMT

Coleman is such a fraud whining that Frtanken should just quit and not allow the automatic recount. I know for certain that Coleman would never have done it had the positions been reversed.

I am so laughing that "Dunce" Bush has been the instrument of destruction for the repugnant one's party. Such poetic justice!

The Mormon church should keep it's nose stuck in Utah where it belongs and keep it's dirty nose out of California. I mean Mormon is just Moron with a superfluous "M"! They may have earned cred with the religious fanatics but they've lost a lot of cred with Mainstream America.

Yes We Did!

First thoughts: Bush's line

Clara Kansas City, MO — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:01:12 GMT

Bush Factor - undermines Obama's organizational efforts. It is easy to speculate; but if the climate were different, the ground game and message would have been different, as well. And technically, Missouri has still not been called by the state officials.
Si Se Puede - I always thought this was one of the more 'false' statements made by Clinton during the primary. Hispanics preferred the name brand recognition; but weren't about to vote for Republicans in the general given the climate on immigration.
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I owe Dave Anders and Kenn an apology. I looked back through the notes and neither of them made the specific 'cross your legs' comment - it was some nimrod named Gary Halverson, Iowa City, IA - whom we apparently never heard from again. It was the July 7th 10:24a post "Right Go AFter Obama on Abortion" article. I still think Anders and Kenn are fringe crazies; but they aren't to be blamed for my specific outburst yesterday.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Class Warrior, D.C. — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:02:10 GMT

Yes, Bush's record-breaking screw-ups helped Obama, but all of the positives Obama had helped him, too.
I look forward to seeing the Repigs bash the hell out of each other this week and over the next four years. Barring some messianic figure showing up, I'd guess Romney has a pretty good shot---the Mormon brand seems to be definitely fitting-in with the usually-intolerant born-againners. Palin may be the Senator from Alaska by then, but I don't see "God opening up any doors" to "plow through" in the real world, only in Princess Palin Fantasyland. I hope Franken wins in Minn, but I can see this as a 2000-like fiasco to be decided (again) by Bush's Supreme Court. And guess who they'll give the nod to?

First thoughts: Bush's line

Dave in St Simons Island — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:02:16 GMT

The Race Factor vs The Bush Factor... Sarah Palin as well as others in the GOP heirarchy have said they were shocked how close the election was given the economic climate.
In my opinion, if race wasn't a factor....Obama would have exceeded 16% popular and the electoral college vote would would have been 425-450.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Joe - STL — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:02:19 GMT

While I wish lobbyists were not used at all in any government capacity, the (sad) fact is that if an all out ban on current/former lobbyists was put in place, there would be virtually no one left to work in DC. Many talented people can be rightly called a lobbyist, and their skills are needed to help run the country…with the right rules though, they can be kept in line.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Eric, Salinas, CA — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:03:34 GMT

It's more like A New Dope as "Simpleton" Sarah tries to become the next new star of the dwindling repugnant one's party. Her and Huckabee are bucking for the same clueless crowd so it ought to be fun to see which one commands the evangelical christian lunatic fringe.

So sick to see McCain try to defend the ignorant witch who just can't keep her mouth shut and who can't keep her story straight from interview to interview. It is so sickening to see her get so much time on tv when she deserves to be ignored. I will enjoy watching the moderate and male republicans rip her apart.

Yes We Did!

First thoughts: Bush's line

Bruce Oregon — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:03:57 GMT

Regarding the Republican Governors meeting, one name jumped out from your re-cap: Tommy Franks. Would this be General Tommy Franks? I always get nervous when the lines between public policy, politics and the military become blurred.

First thoughts: Bush's line

T Nelson Brunte, Minnesota — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:06:39 GMT

What's amazing is that the country voted against a guy with a 20% approval rating and went with a two guys that came from Congress, which has a 9% approval rating. Looks like we had to get that "historic" bug out of our system. One thing about Obama, I don't think anyone has any high expections of him, what ever minor thing he does will be swooned over by his adoring fans and the media - same thing - I know. And why would any one expect more? Obama never accomplished anything, and now he's just going to be led around by the nose by Team Clinton (minus Hillary).

First thoughts: Bush's line

Fair Game — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:07:23 GMT

Bush has been gracious to Obama and his family but Obama is already trying to work a deal with Bush. That won't come easy. Say about Bush what you may but he still is head strong and will not compromise his principles. I wish I could say the same for Obama.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Dennis Dallas — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:08:59 GMT

Oh Please, Obama wins was and is mostly (75 %) due to the blacks in this country. They voted for racism ! Which now is going to be greater than it has ever been . The black and obama have driven a racial divide in the country so deep it will take another 150 yrs to mend.The other 25 % was your hatred of Bush. McCain never had a chance in this election. That deck was stacked in June when obama was appointed ( not winning ) the primary. Dean's hatred of the Clintons assured a obama appointment as nominee.

First thoughts: Bush's line

angry poster — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:11:17 GMT

where are the posts?

First thoughts: Bush's line

Jason, Columbus, OH — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:11:32 GMT

MN: Recount and Recanvass

What? The GOP using bull to cast doubt over a re-canvass process? I'm shocked!

More evidence the GOP has no new ideas, they are just running the FL-2000 playbook again.

More evidence the GOP care only about winning, and not about the integrity of our elections.

If one peruses past MN election results, you'll see that there is a routine difference between the first reported vote totals and the final certified tally. It usually sits somewhere between 1,500 and 9,000 votes.

Moreover, 200 out of 3 million is well within the optical scan error rate, as anyone who has run an optical scan machine (even for test results) knows.

A recount is mandatory under MN law, and should be in any race so close. Let the votes be counted in peace.

Once again, steaming mounds of sexually procreating male bovine excrement from the GOP.

First thoughts: Bush's line

D Nelson — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:13:09 GMT

Our president elect thinks he's a big shot, an elitist who throws millions of dollars away. In reality he's just another blob on the face of this earth, suffering from visions of granduer and illusions of might. His critics will gang up on him like flies on a blob.

First thoughts: Bush's line

J. Ellis, Virginia — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:15:16 GMT

A new hope: The Republican Governors Association meeting kicks off today in Miami, where there will be plenty of opportunities to read the tea leaves for 2012.

Therein likes the problem with the GOP. They are too busy reading the tea leaves when they should be reading the mood of their constituents. They have gathered together in this incestuous pool where no new ideas will likely be discussed, where they will lick their wounds and blame the liberals for the GOP's stunning defeats in last week's election.

I hope they never figure out what is inherently wrong with their party. America has spoken loudly and change has finally come.

ITS A NEW DAY

First thoughts: Bush's line

Beverly in Chicago — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:15:23 GMT

How can one not forget how big of a role Bush’s unpopularity played in this election?. Bush/Cheney reminders are with us each waking day!

It’s a sad day, each day, to think lame duck President Bush thinks that the bailout money be reserved for financial institutions only; instead of helping the major automakers. That is so comparable to saying you can not have healthcare because you have a pre-existing condition; despite the premiums you have paid. The same principal applies to the tax-payer dollars restricted for financial institutions simply. This is financially ruthless with the sole purpose of giving junkets and golden parachutes to only the fat cats. President Bush either doesn’t care or doesn’t comprehend simple, fundamental, basic needs. This is moral bankruptcy!

This is why Democrats must force Mr. Bush’s hand. If America is to come out of the doldrums of economic decline and instability, it must create jobs for the middle class and working poor. How else can this great nation stand, without a basic foundation?

Shame on these greedy fat cats; they are so analogous to their low information voters. Bush/Cheney and company don’t get it.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Bobby — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:16:02 GMT

The important question to ask about Minnesota is WHY the GOP wants to draw the recanvass/recount process into question. Who benefits? Clearly they've already concluded that Coleman actually lost this race, and they need to draw the results into question for political purposes.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Indie Woman in Denver — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:16:40 GMT

Note to the Mormon church on gay marriage (ditto on Keith's special comment 2 nites ago) -- what's it to ya? Y'all have a right to your beliefs, but so does everyone else, and nobody's rights are more important than anyone else's. If you don't believe in gay marriage, then don't marry someone of the same sex. It's that simple.

First thoughts: Bush's line

J.T. WILLIAMS, OCALA,FLORIDA — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:17:00 GMT

BUSH APPROVAL RATING AT ALL TIME LOW. JUST GIVE HIM A FEW MORE WEEKS, I'AM SURE HE CAN BEAT HIS RECORD AND MAKE IT EVEN LOWER. HE IS A "DISGRACE" TO THIS GREAT COUNTRY AND WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS THE MOST FLAWED PRESIDENT IN OUR HISTORY.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Michael Todd, Chicago, IL — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:17:08 GMT

If I were the Mormon church, I'd wear my magic underwear every day from now on - they'll need the extra protection from an angry mob. Their role in the passage of Prop 8 isn't something they should probably brag about, seeing as it has sparked protests around the nation and calls for them to lose their 501(c)3 status. How they can openly brag about their role in politics while not paying taxes as a church is mind-boggling and frightening for those of us who feel more and more like the separation of church and state is nothing more than an urban legend anymore.

First thoughts: Bush's line

How Many Do You Need Again? — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:17:15 GMT

Rainy day in Minnesota. Good day to create some more votes for Franken.

First thoughts: Bush's line

katiec Pekin, IL — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:17:38 GMT

Until the republicans face up to the fact that they almost destroyed our country these last eight years,
realize the American people do not accept or want
the sleeze they spewed during the campaigns, will
not tolerate the religious right being shoved down
our throats, they will not ever be elected to
represent our country.
However, due to their egos, and the postering and
finger pointing going to, cannot see them accepting
or changing anything.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Bad Chihuahua — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:19:19 GMT

"I am he as you are he as you are me and we are all together." "And here's another clue for you all. The Walrus was Paul."

So now the Bishops seek to hit Obama for his stance on abortion. And they will atempt to stop Biden, Kennedy and the other Catholic politicians from recieving Communion. Hey man, it's about time they stood up for the Catholic doctrines and put them in force.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Rock, Janesville,Wisconsin — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:19:38 GMT

President Bush now understands that after 8 years in power. That he still holds all the cards in this political game of "policy poker." He is going to complete his agenda of "manipulation" right to the end. Bush no longer cares about pole numbers! He knows in the end, it how many executive orders he will be able to complete. That is fact!

First thoughts: Bush's line

sandra, phoenix — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:21:54 GMT

I am so tired of you guys taking the Obama win apart. You won't be satisfied until you can prove he didn't win but McCain lost. Well let me help you, that is what happened. In fact it happens in every race. Let's congratulate him on his win and move on to helping him and this country be a success. By the way I hope you realize that you have a large stake in the country's ability to pull itself out of this hole we are in.
When I voted for Obama it was and still is my belief that he will not be able to do this by himself. It will take the continued involvement of all of us to make sure we stay on a path of recovery. Whether you voted for him or believe in him you now have a stake in his success. Believe it people the US is heading for third world status unless we make some serious corrections quickly. The media and their insane facination with nothingness is part of this too. Wake up and contribute.

First thoughts: Bush's line

John B, Des Moines, IA — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:22:01 GMT

Umm, could it be you're not measuring any sort of "Bush effect", but instead mirroring which states are heavily Republican?

First thoughts: Bush's line

jesse St.Paul Minnesota — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:24:34 GMT

Fr staff,,Now we all know that washington has 40,000 lobbyist.Some you guys know by name and may even be personal friends with them.To act like you thought Obama would only hire outsiders and not have a choice in hiring someone that was a lobbyist is a real head scratcher.Slow day?

First thoughts: Bush's line

Positively FM <><><> ...... <><><> ...... — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:28:10 GMT

I don't like to look at the polls too much. They're just numbers. You say Bush is at 26% approval? Well I say he's at 98% approval! There, that's a number, too! Here's another number for you - Q!

First thoughts: Bush's line

jbentley,Chicago,IL — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:28:42 GMT

What is it about Republicans not wanting to count votes?

First thoughts: Bush's line

Collin — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:28:48 GMT

Fred Kirschenmann for Ag Secretary!!!

First thoughts: Bush's line

Lacy, Minneapolis, MN — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:29:35 GMT

They're trying to turn Mark Ritchie into a new Katherine Harris, but Ritchie has worked tirelessly to make sure everyone's vote counts!

Take it from a Minnesotan, don't believe everything you hear from the RNC! This is not Florida.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Amy B Portland, ME — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:32:15 GMT

I hope my comment gets posted today, I haven't been successful in weeks.
On why Obama won: it is kind of mysterious. I was bummed on election day because three of my co-workers, and my downstairs neighbor, nice people, said they voted for McCain. My brother voted for Barr. "Typical" Mainers all, i.e. high school graduate - only folks, voting for McCain, yet when the results came out, Maine went for Obama. I am very grateful Obama won, and I think its because the college educated voters came out in such strong numbers, and that, in addition to the youth vote, put Obama over the top in mostly white Maine. I guess what I took away from the election this year was the realization that perfectly nice people have such different political loyalities, and yet every now and then, people with my outlook win, but only if everyone works very, very hard.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Cara — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:33:20 GMT

Is there any real reason that MSNBC's Bush-hater Keith Olberman didn't take the time to vote in the 2008 presidential election? Hypocrite.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Bad Chihuahua — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:37:34 GMT

After Hillary complimented McCain and even said he'd make a better president than Obama, why does she then vote for Obama?

I guess voting on party lines is not the same as following your heart. And who knows, maybe she DID vote for McCain.

First thoughts: Bush's line

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:37:34 GMT

I can't wait until the first time the Republicans FILLIBUSTER an Obama resolution in the Senate.
Then we'll see how much of a "bi-partisan" President he is.
Can't wait to see what the country's reaction is when he let's the terrorists loose from Gitmo' so they can do it all over again.
Oh, and any of you military families who were looking forward to shorter deployments, and seeing your loved ones again soon, can forget it too.
That will all end when he starts the new war with Pakistan.
...and all the Obama-talk in the world isn't going to strengthen the economy. When unemployment goes up to 8% next year...who will Team-Obama blame?
Six months after this quick-talking-door-to-door-salesman takes over, you're gonna' wish "W" was still in the oval office. (...and I don't like "W")
You asked for it America, and you got it.
Now live with it for the next four years.
Because after the election is over, and the speeches are done, and the smoke clears and the crowds dissapate...the only thing thats left is for him to do his job.....and he doesn't have the slightest idea what he's doing....and we all KNOW it.
Good luck.....and most of all GOD HELP US. It's going to be a bumpy ride.

First thoughts: Bush's line

The - Democrat Soldier — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:38:25 GMT

FR - As you all well know, presidential candidates make promises doing there campaign. Most of them do it only to win over votes.

The current President made plenty of promises and kept few and told more lies to the American people than any promised he kept.

So, my question to you media folks is this; It is apparent that President elect Obama is heading in a direction that is consistence already with a lot of promises and suggestion he has made doing the campaign, and let us not forget - he hasn't even been sworn in.

So, do you media folks intend to scrutinize and comb over everything President elect Obama said doing his campaign? - To the letter?

Give U.S. a break - you guys are trying to discredit him before you even give him a chance.

I tell you - Barack Obama has millions of supporters - 10's of million. You media folks better be careful with the non - sense because we are not stupid and we will not tolerate the continued bashing and mistreatment of our President.

Your ratings and government suppose or assistance could be hindered or disrupted.

Thank you and GOD BLESS AMERICA

First thoughts: Bush's line

Steve Turner Cedar Falls Iowa — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:38:30 GMT

Well, the GOP has two choices: 1. Give up on the Nixon/Reagan/BushI&II style of Psycho-Politics and Corporate Welfare, of which 20 Odd(and I do mean odd) per cent of voters, worship. 2. Attempt to convince the 70+per cent of Americans who think the GOP is redundant, to join God's Own Party and get headed back in the 1950's ditch where Republicans feel most at home.

First thoughts: Bush's line

jawillie, Philadelphia, PA. — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:42:08 GMT

>>>"Mormon church members undertook a perhaps unprecedented mobilization, contributing an estimated 40 percent of the individual donations made to the Yes on 8's $30 million-plus campaign. ...‘I don't think there's any sense in the church that this coalition has more life beyond this one issue,’ said Mike Otterson, a church spokesman. ‘We haven't created a permanent alliance of churches here. What we did here was we came together to protect traditional marriage.’”
==========
And reindeer really do know how to fly. This is proof that despite November 4th, there's still much work to be done against the pseudo-religious forces of bigotry, hatred, and intolerance in this country. We can celebrate for a bit, but we cannot become complacent.

>>>...the [GOP] party -- both in Minnesota and nationally -- seems to have quickly settled on a strategy to deal with the Minnesota recount...Using the fact that Franken picked up so many votes during the recanvass, the GOP talking point appears to be to question the recanvass and use that to issue a cloud over the recount process. Bottom line: It appears we're quickly heading to a situation where neither side is going to believe the final result of the recount.
==========
Anyone care to remember 2000?

69 Days Until Inauguration Day!
http://jawillie.blog.com

First thoughts: Bush's line

Rodney Hopper, Waxahachie, TX — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:44:08 GMT

I'm tired of the "Obama only won because of Bush" rhetoric. It's disenguous to imply that Bush was so major a factor. Obama won in large part not because of his standing as the "anti-Bush", but rather his ability inspire others, like myself, to get out and make a difference in this campaign. Obama won because he gave ownership of his campaign to the people making calls from home, writing letters to the editor, donating $5 or $10 when they could spare it, organizing voter registration drives.

I was 'anti-Bush' in 2004, but I would have never done these things for John Kerry. Not that I didn't respect John Kerry or support John Kerry, but I wasn't inspired by John Kerry. Barack Obama inspired a white male twenty something, raised in the reddest parts of North Mississippi and living in the reddest part of North Texas to get out and make a difference and, by God, we did.

That's what McCain and Palin (and the media, really) never understood. It was never about a bad economy. It was never about 'Bush 44'. It was never about 'the lesser of two evils'. It was never about 'lofty speeches in front of devoted followers.' It was never about Sarah Palin's complete failure of a candidacy. It was never about how poorly John McCain's campaign was run. It was never about increasing black turnout, youth turnout, Hispanic turnout, white women between the ages of 24 and 56 turnout. Those things played a part, but it was never about that.

It was about me wanting to provide a better world for my daughter and believing I had the power to make that happen. The man who made me believe in that power was Barack Obama.

Obama's inspiration that any individual can achieve great things, his desire to find common ground with everyone no matter your personal politics or beliefs (how many times did you hear him say "the conservatives" or "the Republicans"? You'll be hard pressed), and his ability to make this election about 'us' is what led to our success last Tuesday.

http://www.rodneyhopper.com

First thoughts: Bush's line

sbv creswell, oregon — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:44:09 GMT

" What we did here was we came together to protect traditional marriage.’” as someone married to the same spouse for 42 years, have 4 sons and 8 grandchildren; i still can not understand how same sex marriages in anyway threatens mine. in the same way, support for "pro-choice" does not in anyway attempt to devalue or eliminate one's "pro-life" stance based on religious belief. i am reminded of an article which appeared in the sacramento bee about a young LDS couple, living frugally with their five children, who withdrew - in these perilous economic times - $50,000 from their hard earned savings to contribute to the passage of prop 8. How in earth were they so threatened?

First thoughts: Bush's line

Pam, Richmond, Va — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:48:08 GMT

>>They are a shallow, hateful bunch. And the country recognizes them for who they really are. <<<

As a contemporary Republican who is sick and tired of being called "hateful" and "racist", which I'm far from, I've absolutely had it. You want to stereotype me, than I'll stereotype Democrats. You're bottomfeeders who rely on the blame game to get everything you believe you deserve, but don't. How's that make you feel??? Stop the namecalling and the elitist attitudes. How about practicing what you preach, such as a little bit of TOLERANCE for other people's views on the country??

First thoughts: Bush's line

The - Democrat Soldier — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:48:44 GMT

FR - As you all well know, presidential candidates make promises doing their campaign. Most of them do it only to win over votes.

The current President made plenty of promises and kept few and told more lies to the American people than any promised he kept.

So, my question to you media folks is this; It is apparent that President elect Obama is heading in a direction that is consistence already with a lot of promises and suggestion he has made doing the campaign, and let us not forget - he hasn't even been sworn in.

So, do you media folks intend to scrutinize and comb over everything President elect Obama said doing his campaign? - To the letter?

Give U.S. a break - you guys are trying to discredit him before you even give him a chance.

I tell you - Barack Obama has millions of supporters - 10's of million. You media folks better be careful with the non - sense because we are not stupid and we will not tolerate the continued bashing and mistreatment of our President.

Your ratings and government support or assistance could be hindered or disrupted.

Thank you and GOD BLESS AMERICA

First thoughts: Bush's line

Raymond Hernandez, San Antonio, Texas — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:51:49 GMT

Bush should not help the AutoMakers. There is no reason why he should take the blame for the Democrats when the bailout fails. Obama is trying to avoid the responsibility for the disaster that will follow. The unions will still be there and nothing will be fixed.

First thoughts: Bush's line

FULL MOON — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:53:10 GMT

All those who despise Obama and everything he stands for, listen up.

Thanks!!

First thoughts: Bush's line

MSierra, SF — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:57:07 GMT

'...eBay CEO Meg Whitman, who hopes to join the RGA as California governor in 2011...'

The chances?

SLIM and NONE

In California, the Republicans have adopted a 'Brain Dead' mantra of 'No New Taxes'

In the face of an incredible deficit, No New Taxes !!

Because of Prop 13, it takes a 2/3rd vote of Legislature to pass and budget and to increase taxes

The bain dead Republicans can stop any tax increase

Even, lame a** Ray Gun increased taxes, when it was needed

'Taxes are the price we pay for civilized society'

Bring back Jerry Brown !!

First thoughts: Bush's line

The - Democrat Soldier — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:05:38 GMT

The thing that your piece overlooks is that the Republican brand was self destructive.

So, yes did that cause them harm - you damn right it did.

But, what you media folks don't do is give U.S. and President elect Barack Obama the credit that is due.

He is a leader and one that is made for our time. No other Democrat could have been so inspiriting, motivated and focused.

He won allot of hearts and minds and put together the best political campaign and organization ever seen in the history of this country.

He motivated people to be in the political process; which not only helped him to the white house. But will help other democratic nominees and potential candidates win and control our government.

You media folks are lost and need to catch up with the rest of America or you shall fall the same as the Republican brand.

Thank you and GOD BLESS AMERICA

First thoughts: Bush's line

newdayDawning — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:05:51 GMT

Yeah, the Mormon church should be ashamed of themselves. My experience with the holier than thou Mormons was when a Mormon woman moved into my mothers house when she was dying of ALS to live with my dad. Dad said it was okay because God told them it was.

So forgive me if I detest Mormons.

First thoughts: Bush's line

Blake, Denver, CO — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:09:55 GMT

I believe the biggest obstacle blocking progress in this country for at least the past few decades is the corrupt influences in Washington, particularly lobbyists and other special interest groups. When I first decided to support Obama, the one thing that made him stand out in my mind was the fact that he vowed "lobbyists will no longer drown out the voices of the American people when I am in office". I knew right then that a President who made his choices based on the voices and interests of regular American people and not based on lobbyists from big corporations could not go wrong. Today, I am hearing there are "LOOPHOLES" for these lobbyists. I don't hope, I EXPECT President Obama to identify and close these loopholes. This is one area where we cannot budge. To really make a difference, we have to give government back to the people... not partially back, not mostly back with a little lobbying influence... but completely back to the people. I do not know a more avid supporter of Obama than myself... and that's why I WILL NOT be quiet about this until they are silenced! This is one area where President Obama cannot go back on his word... nor can he say that if you look at his words closely, you'll see there were always loopholes... that is unnacceptable. He knows exactly what message he was conveying which was that we the government cannot work for the people if it is working for corporations. No ifs ands or buts. The dream of regaining our sense of citizenship and doing social work and voicing ideas and opinions via the internet or community groups... that dream will die if lobbyist influence is left alive. This is one issue where there is no compromise... there is no middle ground... its either "for the people, by the people" or its not. If its not... the people will loose that sense that we can demand change and our country will inevitably continue on the path it was on before Obama. Obama said "change happens because the American people demand it"... that was a complete farce if he allows lobbyist to continue their corrupt influence in Washington. Now is our President-Elect's chance to make clear what he plans to do in this regard... this was the one area that really set him apart from everyone else in the minds of his strongest advocates and if he doesn't hold true to this principle, everything else is tarnished. Any decision he makes will be questioned by weary supporters like me... wondering if some lobbyist was able to fulfill his company's agenda despite undermining the collective interest of the country.

Our nations biggest problem is undeniably... apathy. People have become apathetic because they don't believe the government really cares what they believe and they've lost trust in the governments ability to get anything done and they blame it on corruption. Obama's campaign has neutralized alot of that cynicism with his campaign of hope which began with the message that the government does care, they do listen, and under this new administration will be rid of the most obvious corrupting influences... lobbyists, special interest groups. That message reingnited a passion like we've never seen... I want to see that continue... but it won't unless you CLOSE THE LOBBYIST LOOPHOLES NOW!

First thoughts: Bush's line

MSierra, SF — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:10:41 GMT

Bad Chihuahua: '...So now the Bishops seek to hit Obama for his stance on abortion. And they will atempt to stop Biden, Kennedy and the other Catholic politicians from recieving Communion. Hey man, it's about time they stood up for the Catholic doctrines and put them in force....'

You mean like molesting altar boys and stealing from the poor ?

Those are great doctrines, aren't they ?

Why does the Catholic Church PROTECT child molesters?

Why does the church move them from diocese to diocese?

Your God, not mine
Your church, not mine

Mormons, Catholics, Holy Rollers.....

Concentrate on shrinking that camel....
and making that needle eye MUCH BIGGER !!

First thoughts: Bush's line

Indie Woman in Denver — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:11:29 GMT

I'm glad to hear from other folks who don't believe that gay marriage is in any way threatening to the institution of marriage.

And based on some of the things I've read here since the election, just because we American have elected ourselves the first black president in no way means there still isn't a lot of hate and intolerance going on.

TO Dennis in Dallas -- WHO's the racist? Methinks you need to look at the man in the mirror....

TO J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY -- Pretty much no matter how Obama's presidency goes, I'M NEVER GONNA WISH W WAS BACK IN THE WHITEHOUSE! The past 8 years have done MORE to RUIN America than even Nixon and Watergate did (and that was a LOT).

First thoughts: Bush's line

joe dallas texas — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:11:50 GMT

what will repub's do without all of the lobbyist money. What will they do without lobbyist writing our laws. How will they keep thier lifestyle without the kickbacks. Come on peope without lobbyist's the repub's will not be able to introduce any new legislation, we know that thier intellect is way below average. Look who is now leading thier party. Sarah Palin. What needs to be done is some kind of simple civics, geography, history test before you are able to run to national office. We would definitely have fewer repub's as they seem to get confused when you are not talking about thier God. Let this country do all possible to keep politic's clean, dignified, and honest..Never vote republican or you can look forward to more of this mess in the future

First thoughts: Bush's line

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:12:59 GMT

Oh Pat, but you are so wrong! The Republicans do indeed stand for something. They stand for corporate wealth. Their entire predicate is based on the preservation of corporate wealth. Yeah, they try to hide behind the perfume of patriotism, the facade of family values and try to instill a fear of nasty Marxism (which they have been doing since the turn of the last century), in order to get middle class people to vote against their own economic interests. It's really a big joke to them, those 'masters of the universe' as they shift the flow of enormous amounts of capital and launch imperialist wars in order to protect their interests.

We, the middle class (and that includes everyone who must work for a living) have (at least temporarily) taken our country back. It's up to us to help re-invigorate capitalism so that capitalism can act as an agent of continued social mobility (when healthy - capitalism is a far fairer system than Communism or Socialism and offers much more opportunity for a greater number of people). The robber baron mentality that started during the Reagan years, led to the stripping of regulations and caused the mayhem of today, must be vanquished. I hope that common sense prevails and that President Obama (my eyes mist when I write 'President Obama' - I still can't believe it) is able to establish an economy that fosters reasonable growth (like during the Kennedy, Johnson and Clinton years) while restricting the very rich from becoming even more so. The economies of scale are disasterous for the rest of us and prevent new start-ups from developing like they should (and of course the system should remain flexible, subject to continuous alterations and improvements).

By the way do you think that Sarah Palin even thinks about the implications of the 'economies of scale' - she probably thinks that it has to do with fishing.
Obama/Biden '08

First thoughts: Bush's line

Rock,Janesville,Wisconsin — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:13:44 GMT

Well "Puppet Palin" is going to be "pandering" again at the RGA meeting today in Florida. The "Special Spewer" will be dishing out so much verbal robotics, and "uneducated" thoughts that it will make her a real "winner" with the GOP/RNC base. The "Dizzy Diva" is going to show the nation, again. That she is uneducated, not well read, does not comprehend information, misquotes people, speaks with poisonous sarcasism, and can speak well if properly prepped to do so. What an intellectual joke she is!!

First thoughts: Bush's line

arnolde — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:13:47 GMT

Dennis Dallas: if you'd taken the time to check the results you'd have seen that blacks went for Obama +7 more than Kerry, but so did a lot of other groups increase their vote for him, among them Hispanics +14, Asians +6 and whites +2, mean and women +5 each.

Obama outperformed Kerry in every significant group.

First thoughts: Bush's line

C.Beitz/Atlantic, VA. — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:19:04 GMT

As bad as the GOP status is currently, there are only 3 reasons why McCain did not win (thank God). Those are the lousy campaign, Sarah Palin, and the extreme right-wingers that seem to be spokespersons (Limbaugh, Buchanan, Delay, Rove, Inghram).The extremists are not Republicans & will cost future elections.

First thoughts: Bush's line

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:21:31 GMT

" Say about Bush what you may but he still is head strong and will not compromise his principles."

HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Industry's tool won't compromise his "principles."

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!