First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

the Pajama Pundit — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:34:12 GMT

one of Obama's messages was to put the bitter partisanship of the last 16 years behind us.
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I think that is why you are seeing him meeting with McCain, 'forgiving' Lieberman, considering Hillary Clinton as a potential SoS, etc. A 'Team of Rivals' indeed. That is the kind of leadership that is needed right now. Politics and ideology aside -- if you've got a good idea, let's hear it.

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Pat, Boston, MA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:38:06 GMT

“more stars than there are in heaven," is how MGM studios were described in its golden era.

So we have the dynamic duo - Keith Olbermann and Rachel Maddow - not present Monday evening. Yet we still get Arianna Huffington, Lawrence O’Donnell and Bill Maher. Their voices have been critical these last few years. They are smart people. Very smart. And not about to cow down to the right wing. Or to anyone for that matter. It’s awesome to just sit back and listen to them.

It’s kind of like spending the evening with Ingrid Bergman, Cary Grant and Will Rogers. Beautiful, handsome, sophisticated, funny. With powerful punches. It just doesn’t get any better.

Does anyone know if Andy Card receives a pension and health care from the government?

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

jaycee, Ventura, CA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:39:21 GMT

Here in California, our joy is tempered somewhat by the passage of Prop. 8 - jaycee, Ventura Ca
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California is buring down, is $15 billion in debt, has more illegal aliens in state then legal residents, and you're worried about Prop 8? Typical liberals, can't see the (burning) trees for the forest.
The Arnold (Sent Monday, November 17, 2008 10:23 AM)
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Nice little rant, Arnold. Wrong target, though. You need to talk to the conservatives who put that piece of garbage on the ballot. Liberals were fine with the status quo. We ended up spending over 70 million dollars in California to address a non-problem invented by conservatives when, as you so correctly point out, we desperately needed those resources to address real problems. Typical conservatives. They cry about big intrusive government when it’s time to pay for the government services they take for granted, but have no problem using government to stick their noses into our bedrooms.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

JTat EHT — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:40:20 GMT

I have not forgiven Joe Lieberman, although a major mea culpa would probably satisfy me. That said, I believe that Obama and the Senate Democrats should be merciful.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Caesar Julius, CT — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:40:57 GMT

Lots of Back-Stabbers on the Democratic team. Powell, Hillary, Lieberman. Barack best not turn his back to anyone of these characters.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Laura, Arlington, VA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:41:15 GMT

I am one of those "lefty bloggers" and "Obama true believers" and I support him today as much as ever. I don't think getting revenge at Lieberman is what he should be using his political capital for, and even though I would like to see Lieberman punished, I respect and admire Obama's decision to take the high road and recognize that he will need Lieberman's support in the Senate in order to get legislation passed that will help the American people, and that that's more important than getting revenge for hurt feelings (and given how much he respected Lieberman when he started in the Senate, what Lieberman did has got to hurt). Barack's a bigger person than I would be for being willing to forgive.

As to Hillary for Secretary of State, I'm not thrilled with it but I'm not too upset either. I think Kerry or Richardson would be better, but I can see some advantages to Hillary. And I don't believe she's so much more hawkish than Obama. I believe she voted for the war because she knew that she was going to run for president and as a woman she felt she had to prove she was "macho" enough. That does not excuse her vote, and it's one of the reasons I did not support her in the primaries. But I think it's something we should keep in mind in determining whether her views are really so much more hawkish than Obama's, because I don't think they are. And even if they are he's the one who will be setting the agenda. Like with the Lieberman thing, I respect his reaching out to a formal rival and working to bring about change by putting some of the bitter battles of the past behind us. So I can't speak for all liberal bloggers, but I will say that this one is as much of an "Obama true believer" as ever (though I don't think he's perfect and I never did).

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Full Moon — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:43:08 GMT

Obama forgiving Lieberman speaks volumes about his character. George W. Bush would never do something like this. He's a tiny man, a miniscule man, an insignificant man, compared to president-elect Obama.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Eric, Salinas, CA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:43:32 GMT

Barack Obama knows how to vet candidates and will select some really great people to replace the incompetent fools of the current tyranny. The first that needs to go is that clueless fool who runs the family planning agency as we need someone smarter than an idiotic abstinence first fool. Just look how incompetent the Wasilla Hillbilly was at keeping her wanton daughter abstaining from getting pregnant underage. I see that the statistics bear out how wrong that policy is.

We need to investigate "Criminal" Paulson to see how much he's done insider trading for his own good. I bet he's up to his neck in bank stocks and is doing everything he can to recoup his investment. He is a big part of this whole global financial meltdown and he needs to pay for his incompetent stewardship. He has totally failed to help out the homeowners who need the help.

Prison for Paulson!

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

BJ, CA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:44:42 GMT

Don't forget the the basic premise of Washington..
"so goes the funding so goes the power."
With jobs, healthcare and infrastucture on the funding front burner....so goes the homeland security budget down the sink hole...Senator Lieberman will be a beggar and that branch will wither and die on the vine slowly...
So, SEE YA JOE...wouldn't want to be YA!

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Brian, Cedar Hill, TX — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:45:20 GMT

I'll bet the I. in Joe I. Lieberman stands for Iscariot.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

IS OBAMA ANOTHER ABE LINCOLN ??? — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:45:56 GMT

OBAMA KEEPS QUOTING ABRAHAM LINCOLN AS AN INSPIRATION FOR BEING A PRESIDENT.

ABE LINCOLN WAS NOT A LEFT-WING, BLEEDING-HEART, LIBERAL --- AS IS OBAMA.

LINCOLN BELIEVED OUR 'DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE' BEST DESCRIBED OUR COUNTRY'S FOUNDING PRINCIPLES. (With Empahsis on INDEPENDENCE).

LINCOLN HAD NO QUALMS ABOUT IMPRISONING ENEMY COMBATANTS AND EVEN CONFEDERATE SYPMATHIZERS. LINCOLN ALSO DENIED THOSE IMPRISONED ALL CONSTITUTIONAL & LEGAL RIGHTS.

WHAT DOES OBAMA HAVE IN COMMON WITH LINCOLN? ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. !!!
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First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Pat Huntington NY — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:46:00 GMT

Obama's success and re-election will be dependent upon his ability to reign in the far left wing, and govern from the center. If his far left supporters think, or ever thought, that he would do all that they wanted, governing from the far left, they were and are naive. That woudl otherwise be a recipe for gridlock, and in action, which would be worse for him. He is making good choices now. He is a majority winning president, unlike Bill Clinton, and the current leader of his party...Reid, Pelosi, and everyone else, must accept his refusal to be pulled to the far left. And, by not picking Hillary as his Sec. of State, the dem. party will crack apart, and the repukes will take ove in 2010. Just deal with it!

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Joie, CT — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:46:57 GMT

Sen. Lieberman is going to face another big problem when he tries to run for re-election in Connecticut...he will probably loose his seat, although it's not until 2010, but he will loose it.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

BJ, CA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:48:23 GMT

Ted should smell the coffee and be reluctant to find solace in that 5 by 10 ft. cell waiting in the wings..

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Nashville_fan — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:49:52 GMT

I find the term "liberal blogosphere" to be hilarious! :)

I don't know whether to consider myself a part of it or just an interested citizen expressing my opinion . . . the media just LOVES creating new labels for everyone! lol

Anywho . . . about Joe Lieberman . . . I wish he would go away, but the simple fact is, whether or not he keeps his chairmanship is simply a sideshow - nice to talk about, but doesn't affect my standard of living one little bit.

If Joe cared about anything other than himself, we wouldn't be in this situation to begin with.

So if it make Joe Lieberman feel like a big boy to keep his chairmanship, and we get to move on to the things that are really important as a result, then I say that is a WIN for the liberal blogosphere, which I assume was developed to deal with important issues, not little men with big egos.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Eric, Salinas, CA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:50:43 GMT

The repugnant ones broke the auto industry and now they don't want to help fix the paroblem they caused by protecting the auto industry from facing the reality of higher fuel efficiency. I hope that everyone who works in the auto industry is paying attention and knows who to blame for letting the auto industry go down the tubes and who saved it. The repugnant ones want to let the companies fail, forcing hundreds of thousands to millions of retirees lose their health benefits and retirement pay.

I don't buy the nonsense that somehow the Clintons will overshadow Barack Obama. Barack is way too popular now and He is The Man! I think that Hillary is a great choice for Secretary of State, far superior to the clueless prissy poser now screwing up our foreign diplomacy.

I really hope the Dems just cut off the remaining funds of the bailout and wait until Barack is president and he has a new Treasury Secretary who will help distressed howmeowners. What a waste that bailout has been because of White House incompetence and ideology.

Down with the Freeloader Market Theory!

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

BJ, CA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:50:47 GMT

Paulson and Stevens might make good cell mates..

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Ron Indiana — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:51:30 GMT

Trees, trees, everywhere, but where is the forest. Pundits like David Gregory can only see trees and not the big picture. The big picture is Obama's stragegy. Make peace with Lieberman, make peace with McCain, become open to Hillary: all part of a bigger strategy of reaching across the isle and creating new relationships.

The comment about Obama's first test with the left is nonsense. The intelligent left know Obama has to lead from the center. Most progressives do not want to go down the path the conservatives have taken by pushing their own conservative agenda. Leading from the center will serve Obama well. He will get support from moderate Republicans, Democrats, and more importantly, THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.

Paulson bail out is shameful. Why? It fixes the ledgers of the banks, but does not help Main Street. Not nearly enough strings to the money.

My bet is most Americans are not too thrilled about bailing out the auto company. Maybe the free market should work and we have a big two, or a big one. Maybe each company shoud only be making 5 models, but each model is safe and fuel efficient. If Congress rewards poor management, I can think of a lot of American companies wit poor management. Remember Zenith, RCA, Nash, Studebaker: they were American companies who no longer exist due to poor management.
Maybe free market should shake out the poorly managed.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Rock,Janesville,Wisconsin — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:53:57 GMT

It is fact that Joe Lieberman is a political "two-face," and needs to be watched very carefully. Joe shoud not go totally unpunished politically, however he does still have some power in the Senate. Obama has given Joe a political "gift," and he had better not abuse it. Obama will be watching Joe very carefully. So Joe needs to watch his step very carefully politically. Remember Joe, America is watching as well. Time to move forward America!

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Class Warrior, D.C. — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:55:02 GMT

Obama is a pragmatist; he wants as many dems in Congress as possible, because of the races that are as yet undecided. DONT PUT CLINTON IN THERE!!! bILL IS STILL THE ALBATROSS AROUND HER NECK HE ALWAYS WAS, WITH HIS HINKY DEALS WITH OTHER GOVERNMENTS. JUST DON'T DO IT!! The auto industry should go into receivership, and all the management and engineers be fired, bring in a new bunch thatunderstands the public's need forfuel-efficient, well-made cars in the 21st century thatcan actually COMPETE with other countrys' cars. Americancars are CRAP, and that's why the Big Three are in such trouble. and abailoutwon't help---look at Chrysler; they didn't learn a thingfrom thelast bailout, except "keep making junk,andifnobody buys em, beg Big Gumint forabailout again!? Which is exactly what they've done.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Clara Kansas City, MO — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:55:11 GMT

Does anyone else see the Bailout money as just 'business as usual' for this inept administration? We have heard for years all of the millions and millions unaccounted for in Iraq, and now we are getting equal and fair treatment domestically with the Bailout. I don't necessarily believe it is entirely Corruption, per se - it is just a stunning incompetence and complete disregard for transparency, regulation and oversight. January 20th can't come soon enough. Could Bush go ahead and step down now?
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Jess, from yesterday – Apparently you weren’t watching the same campaign or debates that I was. McCain is a ‘has been, washed up’ DC Career politician. His mediocrity and frat boy behavior caused his ‘sacrifice’ for his country and he’s played the POW card every opportunity he could. He has gamed the system, his personal life and basic relationships to a literal tit for tat. His idea of Country First is McCain First. He is lacking in character and substance and was not able to articulate a single policy issue during the campaign that would be different from the existing administration. He showed a complete lack of judgment in picking the pit-bull with lipstick after one face to face interview. The ‘heartbeat away’ would have been a blunderous disaster. I can see you are still in pain; but Obama received over 7 million more votes than McCain. In our wonderful democracy – Obama WON. And yes, as a public servant who has literally been paid by my tax dollars, McCain DOES still have to prove something to me. He is in DC to do the People’s work. I don’t give a good hot damn which state he represents – I help pay his salary and bennies and he needs to not forget that as he continues in his service to this great country.
^^^
Byrd Doggie (Sent Monday, November 17, 2008 2:32 PM) but of course, that dog won’t hunt… (Laughter card, please).
^^^
New York Mike (Sent Monday, November 17, 2008 3:03 PM) On the Schumer comment,…the term ‘professional comedian’ implies that someone might actually pay money to hear his jokes. He is amateur at best.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

fact — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:55:50 GMT

Obama, nothing more than a Trojan Horse. Reality , low classed vote puts a hollow and shallow person in the White House. Thus the White house Cabinet will be loaded with has been failure. Yes, Your Washington self serving paper hanger has been given more power to destroy remaining America.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

jesse St.Paul Minnesota — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:56:25 GMT

Of coarse there's a split between the two party's.Or should we call it red vs Blue.You see the states that hold our auto makers are Blue states.The people that would be effected the most live in Blue states.These people where sold put years ago,and now they Bush admin,wants to put the final nail in there coffin.While Honda,Toyota,and the others doing biz in the south are doing fine in Red states.See they sold out so there high school educated work force would have jobs.Of coarse there are no unions,no job safety,no job security,but they have a job.Be it a lot less then a union worker makes ,so it comes down to this,Will Detroit change its ways,or will the unions give some,will Bush help those blue states.I think not,he's to busy filling his friends on wall street pockets with our cash.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

GmcDuluthMN — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:56:50 GMT

If nothing else, this will show that Barack Obama is more of a man than Joe Lieberman will ever be.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Rodney Hopper, Waxahachie, TX — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:00:59 GMT

I, too, was calling for Lieberman's removal, but, realistically, once Iraq is done with, there will be essentially nothing else from bringing him back into the fold.

I hate that he went certain places "I fear that America will not survive with the Democrats get 60 seats", but we can't get bogged down in petty partisanship. This is what we asked for. This is why we put Obama in charge.

I also take this as a real sign that the Democrats feel like they have a shot at 60 still.

http://www.rodneyhopper.com

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Houston — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:02:17 GMT

In Alaska, election workers will count approximately 24,000 ballots today, which could give us a clearer picture in a race where challenger Mark Begich (D) currently leads incumbent Sen. Ted Stevens by 1,022 votes.
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The best thing about a Begich win, which seems likely, isn't that there would be another Democrat in the Senate. The best thing about it is that his winning would block Palin's path to the Senate, which would open up after Stevens resigned or was kicked out of the Senate.

Sarah would have to do her demagogue routine in Alaska, so us folks in the "lower 48" wouldn't have to listen to her. If she were in the Senate, Sarah the Senator would be hogging the news all the time for at least the next four years talkin' 'bout Joe the Plumber, Nancy the Nurse, and maybe Tommy the Train and Roger the Rabbit.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Grace, Mountain View, CA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:07:56 GMT

No one is saying Leiberman was a bad Chairman so why should he lose his position? It would just be petty revenge. Obama is being sensible better to have Leiberman working for and voting with the Dems than to assuage hurt feelings.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Amy B Portland, ME — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:08:17 GMT

Lieberman represents the voters of Connecticut. It is their role, and only theirs, to decide whether to punish him for supporting McCain against Obama. I don't think the President should punish people who disagree with him, hence the reason I consider Bush one of our worst Presidents. There was a man who wanted to "spread democracy" without understanding the basic principles inherent in it.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

The - Democrat Soldier — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:08:20 GMT

FR - I just want you guys to know, although sometimes I come down hard on the media (and it's only because you guys need at times "oversight) I really do appreciate what you guys do.

Now, the so called bail out, housing crisis etc; why have no one in government or the media pointed out the real reason we are in this financial mess?

We all now it was the greedy oil companies and speculators that created a chain of events that affected our main street markets in an effort to continued the wind fall profits of the wall street markets.

But, yet we bailed Wall Street out, even after many were made billionaires.

The Bush administration is completely responsible for the down fall of our economy.

SO, don’t forget that it was the oil companies and speculators that started the price rise in energy cost and thereby affecting everything directly and indirectly associated with it.

Oil companies and speculators started the big economic downward spiral. Their actions are what caused the rise in prices on food and other everyday needs. They are what caused less money in the consumer’s pockets, which is needed to sustain our economy.

They are why people are scared to spend whatever extra money they had. They are the reason people are losing their jobs.

So, we know President Elect Barack Obama, won’t allow this to happen to U.S. again. He will stop the speculators and the Oil Companies from ever stealing the money of hard working Americans; simply by gauging and monopolizing the markets.

Frankly, as an American I wish we could prosecute these villains and send them to prison for treason.

Thank you and GOD BLESS AMERICA

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Kathy from Pinellas Park, FL — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:13:24 GMT

Well, I'm a "true Obama believer" and have been for a long time. Garrison Keiller said it best ..... now is the time for Obama to start disappointing his followers, stunning his enemies and doing what's right for America. I think Lieberman should lose his key chairmanship, Clinton should be spanked, and McCain should be sent to Alaska with Palin. But that's just me. Obama is obviously a much better person. I would say the bar is being set very high for these folks who are getting a warm welcome. The question will be -- are Lieberman, Clinton and McCain up to the moral challenge?

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Gail, TN — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:13:55 GMT

Even if Joe Leiberman keeps his chairmanship, there is such as thing as karma. His colleagues, his constituents and the general public will be wary and distrustful of him and he may not survive the next election. President-Elect Obama is doing exactly the right thing by letting Joe Leiberman's fate unfold on its own, without stepping in and speeding up the process.

Remember folks, what goes around really does come around without our interference, so it is wise to be merciful.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Rick, NC — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:16:00 GMT

Stop the bailouts now...no money for detroit...no bailouts for farmers either....no more bailouts for granny in florida...no more bailouts for those dumb enough to live on the beach...no more bailouts for local companies...I wonder how many of those rightwing free marketeers will give back their bailouts?

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Dottie Swarthmore PA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:16:17 GMT

Regarding the auto companies bail out, people of privilege do not understand what will happen if the bail out is not granted. Mika on Morning Joe rants about the bail out, but she was born into privilege and does not understand the average working family. The average worker has a wife, three children, a mortgage and a car payment. Should we just let them sink because of the auto executives who ran their companies into the ground? Mika should show a little compassion for the workers who had nothing to do with the collapse of the auto industry. She has never had to worry how she was going to feed her family. In my opinion she is showing contempt for the auto workers.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Pacheck, Huntington Beach, Ca. — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:16:47 GMT

Just as I thought, the dems are weak and bent. Rove can thumb his nose at congress, bush openly brakes the law without fear of retrobution, Chaney can shoot a friend in the face being drunk as a lord. And our national treasury sacked and looted right in front of our faces. When is justice going to prevail. Get rid of Lieberman, Put Rove & Meier in jail, lets start making people for their transgressions agenst the paople of the U.S.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

fact — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:33:10 GMT

Not even sworn in, Obama, being nothing more than a Trojan Horse. The to date results equals loading the White House cabinet with old dead blood. Nothing more up setting is the fact, inner bickering of saving those who have fallen and being re elevated to position. America needed a President "leader" not more of yesterdays Washington self serving paper hanging useless failed policies. ""JOE"" should be sent packing! a turn coat to a party and now wants to return to the fold of failure!

A handful of failed and derailed little Gods which have and continue to be not removed from our government. Get rid of sending failure back to Washington,, ""NOW THAT WOULD BE CHANGE"""!!!!!!!!

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Kathie, PV, CT — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:36:34 GMT

Even though I'm ashamed that Joe Lieberman is my CT senator, I agree that Obama is showing leadership and not vengefulness with this decision.

Hopefully the State of CT will not repeat past mistakes and we'll resoundingly vote this guy out of office next time.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Barbara Jean - Pompano Beach, FL — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:50:42 GMT

I am all for Lieberman keeping his Chairmanship. Let the people of his State VOTE HIM OUT of office if they do not like it. This is not the time to act like 6th Graders on Recess. There are serious problems in this country the President Elect needs to address without a lot of in-fighting going on.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Typical neo-con moron — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:56:33 GMT

Where's the vicious partisanship that has served the neo-nazi party so well for 8 years?

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:59:43 GMT

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Dorothy, Illinois — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:02:42 GMT

I for one would like to see the media and the public GIVE PRESIDENT ELECT OBAMA A CHANCE before we begin criticizing. He has just been elected, could we give him some time without picking apart his every move, without analyzing how each thing he does will "play" with the liberals or conservatives, etc. Good grief!!!!!He is going to be the President of all the people--Democrats and Republicans. Could we please stop making everything about partisan politics? He says he wants to work for unity in this country, couldn't we all try to work with him?

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Probably won't clear the liberal filter — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:09:16 GMT

"I really hope the Dems just cut off the remaining funds of the bailout and wait until Barack is president and he has a new Treasury Secretary who will help distressed howmeowners. What a waste that bailout has been because of White House incompetence and ideology." Eric, Salinas, CA

I believe that it was the democrats that got us in to the whole mortgage crisis to begin with, starting five years ago, when Barney Frank rejected Bush administration efforts to clamp down on Fannie and Freddie, claiming they were - quote - "not facing a financial crisis," dismissing fears as exaggerations that would "pressure" the lenders to cut back on housing loans to those in need.

Eric, your bigotry and hate filled posts never stop amazing me.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Michael Furlong, Long Island — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:12:02 GMT

Palin will make a great senator.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Pam Indiana — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:17:55 GMT

I must agree with Dottie from PA. I usually tend to side with Mika on Morning Joe, but the past couple of days she has showed contempt for the auto workers. Maybe she should try driving an American made car. We have all sat here and watched while the government has bailed out AIG and all the rest of the money grubbers on Wall Street only to see them continue business as usual. i.e. executive trips. The auto industry has given the American people exactly what they have asked for, SUV's and luxury vehicles. If the Big Three go under then this country will be in a world of hurt. Mika needs to wake up and smell the coffee. I heard the irresponsibility of the execs at the Big Three mentioned several times this morning on Morning Joe. Well, how does their irresponsibility compare to the execs of AIG or any of the other financial power houses who have done their best to become very wealthy while destroying our economy? Put some stipulations on what is to be done with the money, but for the sake of all of those auto workers and their families the government needs to do something to help.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

R. P. IL. — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:22:23 GMT

To "Is Obama another Abe Lincoln"
You are not a very good student of history. One of the greatest feats of leadership in this nation's history was Abe Lincoln insisting over the objections of Congress that the defeated enemy keep their guns, horses, and remaining provisions. Most wanted to "punish" the South. Lincoln understood that reconciliation would be better accomplished if southerners could still hunt and provide. After his assasination, Johnson was impeached for continuing on this process but narrowly won. I'm not sure "imprisoning and denying rights" was high on Lincoln's agenda.
As far as being liberal - freeing the slaves instead of continuing the status quo doesn't sound very conservative to anyone other than you. To me, regardless of the title, it was very liberal.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Broke in Florida — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:29:19 GMT

I just opened a "new bank", it's call Safe Yard Savings and Don't Loan. Convienently located for 24 hour access in my back yard. I have sent money Zar Paulsen my request for a $ 25 Billion dollar bail out, but he has yet to reply. Does anyone know what goverment agency I need to talk to, I just keep getting a busy signal.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Teach — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:34:41 GMT

As they say, "Keep your friends close and your enemies closer". Old Joe will get his, you wait. It will come further down the line when it doesn't look so much like revenge and the media isn't paying quite as much attention.
As for Hillary - she isn't "Old dead blood" but a very talented and intellegent politician. As long as Bill can pass the vetting process, I think she'd do a great job - and she is a faithful democrat.
The American auto industry has needed something new for years but continued to build the biggest gas gussling road hogs they could. Now not only can you not give them away at the dealer lots, but if you already own one, you are stuck with it forever. Shame on them - some countries (China) won't even sell our cars there because they don't pass their gas milage requirements. Run by the crooked oil companies right into the ground. Time for change. Maybe a tough lesson for us all is better than giving those crooks cash to pour into a sinking boat.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Robin — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:41:19 GMT

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

John B, Des Moines, IA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:41:29 GMT

I'm no fan of Lieberman and hope the voters of Connecticutt will throw him out in 2010, but I'm realistic enough to know that he has already lost the battle that meant the most to him. The war in Iraq WILL come to a certain end and the Neocon dream IS dead. Except for his militaristic tendencies Lieberman agrees with the Democrats on most issues. He's marginalized and will never again enjoy the influence he squandered in the sandbox. No one on either side of the aisle will entirely trust him ever. That's good enough for me.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Sophie, Oakland, CA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:42:30 GMT

Love Rahm Emanuel as Obama's chief of staff. Would love to see Lieberman go, go, go! No matter what happens, the BIG CHANGE is, Obama looks to what is good for the country.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Mark Folger,Henderson NV — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:47:26 GMT

Michael,was told once.keep your friends close,but your emenies closer.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Sarah Palin wouldn't make a pimple on a senator — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:48:02 GMT

Michael Furlong - you confuse "senator" with "minotaur."

Sadly, she only has one end of that arrangement securely in hand - we can worry about the head end later.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Living within my means and feeling good about it — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:51:38 GMT

"Probably won't clear the liberal filter", Funny how I don't really see a liberal filter on First Read. I read Eric's post and also didn't see any hate or bigotry in it, just his opinion.
Fact is, many people on both sides of the isle caused this current crisis, but most can see a reacuring theme - no matter what the crisis, the oil companies continue to make record profits. Bush = oil. Logic should follow.
However, I'd like to present a different, probably unpopular, idea. The greed of Americans' caused some of this problem. Living in houses we can't afford, driving cars we could barely pay for much less buy the gas for, wearing clothing and jewelry that are out of our budget - that helped to fuel the present economy. We lived off credit that we couldn't pay back for many years and now it is time to pay the piper.
I don't care how crooked the banks are - where is the common sense when people were told their house payment was going to be 3/4 of their monthly income - and they bought the house anyway!? Where is the common sense when you buy a car that gets 8 miles to the gallon and you commute 25 miles one way to work!? Where is the sense in making minimum payments on a $10000 credit card balance so you can go out to eat 4 times a week and drink Starbucks every morning? All of these actions are great for the overall economy in the short term, but very bad for the individual in the long run - and in turn, bad for the economy in the long run as we have seen.
Hopefully things will come around for us all, but as Americans, hopefully we've learned a lesson or two that we can teach to our children.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

R. P. IL. — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:54:31 GMT

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:57:06 GMT

Michael Furlong, Long Island (Sent Tuesday, November 18, 2008 11:12 AM)

Michael:

Over the years we have learned that Senators without substance make terrible representatives. Palin has no substance. She might add something to the scenery around DC but she would not make a good Senator. She would also be very susceptible to special interests and her niativate would be used to easily lead her down the road to corruption.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

John Mitchell, Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 17:00:48 GMT

Who is going to take Biden's seat in Delaware?

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Sandycs1953 Texas City, TX — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 17:27:04 GMT

Here's what McCain had to say after yesterday's meeting with President Elect Obama:

"Earlier today, when asked about efforts to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear power, Senator Obama said he might apply tougher sanctions -- 'potentially.' I have called for tougher sanctions against Iran for years. I have supported tougher sanctions during this campaign that Barack Obama opposed, and if elected, I would work to lead an international effort to put tougher sanctions in place -- not potentially but actually. Senator Obama last year opposed legislation with broad bipartisan support that called for tougher sanctions on Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps for its terrorist activities. Senator Obama was also asked today about capturing Osama bin Laden -- he said he would 'try him, apply the death penalty to him where it is necessary.' I do not know why Senator Obama would have any doubt that it is necessary. There is no one more deserving of execution than Osama bin Laden. If he survives capture, the death penalty would be necessary, just and appropriate. Senator Obama continues to hedge his bets on national security issues showing his inexperience and weakness. Senator Obama's comments demonstrate once again that America cannot afford untested leadership when facing the threats posed by Iran and Osama bin Laden."

First off McShortie: YOU LOST! Get over it! And be respectful! It's President Elect Obama, not Senator Obama. He gave up his Senate seat on Sunday. Get a life. Because apparently, you can't even hold your contempt in check. No wonder the meeting only lasted 40 minutes. That's about all anyone can stand of you anymore. GO HOME!

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Diana Owens, Tacoma, Washington — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 17:36:21 GMT

The one thing I appreciate about President-elect Obama is his understanding of Biblical principles, and trying to enact them in his life. In the Bible it states agree with your adversaries quickly. My take on this passage is: find common ground with those who were against you, discuss how you can move forward for the good of the whole, then you can move on without using your energy on things that are of little significance. To seek revenge on things that were said in the past, keeps you in the past. We have too many pressuring issues to confront, then towaste time over hurt feelings. In fact, what was said in the past has no significance with has to be done right now. The change that the president-elect has been talking about includes, not reacting to things as they have been reacted to in the past. His job and the job of the incoming congress is to work for what is in the best interest of the people. A particular individual, should not be the focus. Focusing on Hillary, Lieberman, even Obama or a particular party is not where it is at. What they do collectively is what is important. This is what I hope the president-elect will do. I sincerely hope it will be a New Day in politics, and "Democracy" will have a new meaning, for the whole world. It is time that the core of all faiths to be played out in the world, respect and have compassion for all people, not just those who look, think and believe like you.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Heather, WA — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 17:45:09 GMT

Leiberman: Let the people of CT decide his fate in 2010.

The Big 3: It's not a "bailout" when they will be required to meet certain obligations and REPAY the money at a set rate. That is called a LOAN, not a "bailout". The UAW isn't at fault in the auto industry crisis, they stand on the line and make the vehicles, they don't make the decisions about whether the company will continue to make gas guzzlers or move toward a more fuel effecient vehicle. The UAW have already made concessions and the upper and mid-level management squandered their opportunity to put that money into making fuel effecient vehicles. The CEO's and mid-level management need to give up on any idea of getting bonuses from the loan they will most likely get and they should be required to keep that money here and not send it over seas to their foreign based plants. If we can all get behind universal health insurance it would lessen that expenditure for alot of companies and would free up that money for R&D and actually making more fuel effecient cars. Please, for all of those folks living in that other reality known as Right Wing World, the American worker doesn't need to beocme more productive, we are the premier producers in the world, what we need is smarter management that looks forward to a future free of foreign oil.

Paulson, Bernanke & the $700 Billion bailout: Not one more penny should be given to them to line the pockets of wall street CEO's or the banks. The money they've doled out so far isn't helping main street and it's not creating jobs or keeping people in their homes. Job creation would do more to stem the bleeding in our economic and housing crisis for the average American than anything right now. If people have JOBS then they can afford to pay their credit card debt and their mortgages. Wouldn't that help the banks if they were getting paid for the credit cards and home loans they're holding? They could lower the interest rates on credit cards, and renegotiate home loans by extending them from 30 year fixed rates to 40 years and get folks out of those ARM's. They would get their money and then some.

January 20th can't get here soon enough!!

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Chris, MI — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 18:01:51 GMT

Auto execs did not run their companies into the ground, with the exception of Chrysler post-Cerberus buy-out. In fact, Cerberus' experience with Chrysler is a perfect example of why the auto industry is a different ball of wax than many other industries.

GM and Ford recognized the steps that needed to be taken to move their businesses forward to the higher fuel economy standards and better management practices of the 21st Century. They have been taking those steps. They are on the right path; there just happens to be an economic sinkhole in that path and they need the government's help to bridge it.

They are not asking for a bailout. They are asking for a loan. They know exactly how much they need, how long it will last, and where the money will be spent (much of it to meet union obligations). If they could borrow this amount of money somewhere else, they would, but in case no one's heard, there's a credit freeze.

We granted a financial sector bailout due to fears of what would happen to the economy if the market tanked. The auto industry is a different story (and asking for FAR LESS, too). One in every ten jobs in the United States is related to the auto industry either directly or indirectly. Millions of jobs could potentially be lost if the Big Three file for bankruptcy.

To see their struggles as an example of the free market is also ridiculous. The auto industry in other countries is subsidized by their governments. GM doesn't just compete against Japanese and Chinese car companies, it competes against Japan and China, because both countries subsidize research and development and manufacturing for their auto industry.

If this loan fails, it puts us all in jeopardy. We need to stop pretending -- and stop letting our Congressmen pretend -- that this is the same as the financial bailout which rewarded irresponsibility. Even responsible individuals need a helping hand sometimes.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

Robert Stoute, Houston, TX — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 18:04:50 GMT

I don't care what side of the aisle Joe the Censor is on. I want him OUT. He hates the First Amendment and is an aberration of everything that America stands for. Period.

First thoughts: Joe the Chairman?

norman boatright — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 18:08:50 GMT

Sen. Lieberman, will lose his seat in 2010, obama wins.Sen. Lieberman will work for the dems fore 2 years,obama wins. by showing he is forgiving he is showing positive change-obama wins. this is a smart POL.