First thoughts: New York state of mind

Tim, Harrisburg — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:21:49 GMT

RE: With friends like these...

I think that just shows that the Dems are a heterogeneous, independent party. There are liberal, conservative, and moderate Dems. With the Republican party, if you don't toe the line on touchstone cultural issues, you're a RINO and likely targeted for replacement (see: Arlen Specter). Having some pushback from his own party isn't necessarily a bad thing, though. After all, if you already have to make the compromises with your own party, why do it with the other?

And as for the special election, I'm not buying the recent polls. I think turnout will be lower than expected. Tedisco by five or more percentage points. It will be just as expected, which will baffle the media more and likely give them more to yak about!

First thoughts: New York state of mind

pat huntington ny — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:22:09 GMT

The media is making more of NY-20 than it should. If the Republican wins, its not a big deal or a blow to Obama since the district is heavily republican. If the Dem wins, its not a big blow to republicans because it was already in Dem hands for a while. The winner today doesn't really say much at all about Obama or his influence. That's my opinion.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

matt — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:22:37 GMT

NY-20 is far more important as bellwether for the GOP than it is for Obama. This i a Republican district that only went for a very conservative Dem in '06. This is not some referendum on Obama or his agenda.

http://www.political-buzz.com/

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Brian Crooks, Naperville, IL — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:23:37 GMT

66% Approval and a Russian President that wants to sit down and come to agreement on missile defense and Iran, among other things. The defense rests.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

MSierra, SF — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:25:48 GMT

WONDERFUL NEWS from the NY Times !!

‘...The official said that it was “highly probable” that the case would go forward and could lead to arrest warrants...’

‘.... It bases its case on the 1984 Convention Against Torture, which is binding on 145 countries including the United States...’

‘...including former Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales,...’
‘...names John C. Yoo, the former Justice Department lawyer who wrote secret legal opinions saying the president had the authority to circumvent the Geneva Conventions, and Douglas J. Feith, the former under secretary of defense for policy...’
‘...The other Americans named in the complaint were William J. Haynes II, former general counsel for the Department of Defense; Jay S. Bybee, Mr. Yoo’s former boss at the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel; and David S. Addington, who was the chief of staff and legal adviser to Vice President Dick Cheney...’

LITTLE WORMS !!
You thought you got away with it, huh ??

‘...Last October, when the Miami court handed down the conviction, Attorney General Michael B. Mukasey applauded the ruling and said: “This is the first case in the United States to charge an individual with criminal torture. I hope this case will serve as a model to future prosecutions of this type.”...’

From the NYT:

‘...Spanish Court Weighs Inquiry on Torture for 6 Bush-Era Officials

Published: March 28, 2009

LONDON — A high-level Spanish court has taken the first steps toward opening a criminal investigation against six former Bush administration officials, including former Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales, on whether they violated international law by providing a legalistic framework to justify the use of torture of American prisoners at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, an official close to the case said.

The case was sent to the prosecutor’s office for review by Baltasar Garzón, the crusading investigative judge who indicted the former Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet. The official said that it was “highly probable” that the case would go forward and could lead to arrest warrants.

While the move represents a step toward ascertaining the legal accountability of top Bush administration officials for allegations of torture and mistreatment of prisoners in its so-called war on terror, some American experts said that even if warrants are issued their significance could be more symbolic than practical, and that it was likely that they would not lead to arrests if the officials do not leave the United States.

The complaint under review also names John C. Yoo, the former Justice Department lawyer who wrote secret legal opinions saying the president had the authority to circumvent the Geneva Conventions, and Douglas J. Feith, the former under secretary of defense for policy.

The move was not entirely unexpected as several human rights groups have been asking judges in different countries to indict Bush administration officials. One group, the Center for Constitutional Rights, had asked a German prosecutor for such an indictment, but the prosecutor declined.

Judge Garzón, however, has built an international reputation by bringing high-profile cases against human rights violators as well as international terrorist networks like Al Qaeda. His issuing of an arrest warrant for General Pinochet led to his arrest. He has also been outspoken about the treatment of American detainees at Guantánamo Bay.

Judge Garzón has been able to take jurisdiction of such high-profile cases because of a 1985 law that gives Spanish courts “universal jurisdiction” in crimes against humanity if they can be linked somehow to Spain.

In the case against the former Bush administration officials, last week Judge Garzón linked it to an earlier case in which he indicted five former Guantánamo Bay prisoners who were citizens or residents of Spain. The Spanish Supreme Court had overturned a conviction of one of them, saying that Guantánamo was “a legal limbo” and no evidence obtained under torture could be valid in any of the country’s courts.

The complaint was filed by a Spanish human rights group, the Association for the Dignity of Prisoners, to the National Court, which assigned the case to Judge Garzón. After the complaint is reviewed by the prosecutor, a criminal investigation would be likely to begin, the official said. If the case proceeds, arrest warrants could still be months away.

The 98-page complaint, a copy of which was obtained by The New York Times, was prepared by Spanish lawyers who have also relied on legal experts in the United States and Europe. It bases its case on the 1984 Convention Against Torture, which is binding on 145 countries including the United States.

Gonzalo Boye, the Madrid lawyer who filed the complaint, said that the six Americans cited had had a well-documented role in approving illegal interrogation techniques, redefining torture and abandoning the definition set by the 1984 Torture Convention.

Secret memorandums by Mr. Yoo and other top administration lawyers helped clear the way for aggressive policies like waterboarding and other harsh interrogation techniques, which human rights groups say amount to torture.

The other Americans named in the complaint were William J. Haynes II, former general counsel for the Department of Defense; Jay S. Bybee, Mr. Yoo’s former boss at the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel; and David S. Addington, who was the chief of staff and legal adviser to Vice President Dick Cheney.

Mr. Yoo declined to comment on Saturday, saying that he had not seen or heard of the petition.

The other former officials either could not be reached on Saturday or did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Their defenders have said their legal analyses and policy-making on interrogation practices, conducted under great pressure after the 2001 terrorist attacks, is now being unfairly second-guessed after many years without a terrorist attack on the United States.

Mr. Boye, however, said that lawyers should be held accountable for the effects of their work. “This is a case from lawyers against lawyers,” he said. “Our profession does not allow us to misuse our legal knowledge to create a pseudo-legal frame to justify, stimulate and cover up torture.”

He said that Spanish citizens were tortured and Spain, as a signatory of the Torture Convention, was obliged to pursue such a case.

Prosecutions and convictions under the Torture Convention have been rare. In recent years, France has convicted a Mauritanian and a Tunisian citizen and The Netherlands convicted a military officer from Congo.

Reed Brody, a lawyer at Human Rights Watch who has specialized in this issue, said that even though torture was widely practiced, there were numerous obstacles, including “a lack of political will, the problem of gathering evidence in a foreign country and the failure of countries to pass the necessary laws.”

The United States for the first time this year used a law that allows for the prosecution in the United States of torture in other countries. On Jan. 10, a Miami court sentenced Charles Taylor, the former Liberian leader, to 97 years in a federal prison for torture, even though the crimes were committed in Liberia.

Last October, when the Miami court handed down the conviction, Attorney General Michael B. Mukasey applauded the ruling and said: “This is the first case in the United States to charge an individual with criminal torture. I hope this case will serve as a model to future prosecutions of this type.”

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Arthur Spooner — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:25:56 GMT

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Rick,Ky — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:27:32 GMT

Chucky T. you show your true color's ( Republican) with trying to Pin new phrases, such as President Goodwrench. You're so disrespectable of President Obama, with such Adolescant BS. Sadly, I expected better of YOU !

Hey 1st Read, why no mention of how President Obama sent the parade of loser's out the front door on friday, & did'nt letem get away with leaving out the backdoor. He wanted thier faces to be seen across the World for all to see! By doing this, they had to face Question's from the pool of reporter's always picnicing at the Whitehouse. Our President has a way of getting his Point across, not just telling America that he's the Decider.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Nashville_fan — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:28:25 GMT

Last week's talking point was that the Obama Administration did not exercise enough governmental authority over and showed too much deference to AIG.

This week's talking point is that the Obama Administration is excercising too much governmental authority over and not showing enough deference to GM.

Is this hypocrisy, selective amnesia, or political gamesmanship?

I guess it's easier to take pot shots from behind the trees than roll up your sleeves and actually try to build something from scratch.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Palomino — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:29:25 GMT

When Obie arrives in London this afternoon, along with wife Michelle, he'll hear BOOOOOO! He's not very used to that but he'll GET used to it. The honeymoon is over and Obie's created quite a mess for himself. That's right, Obie's mess, not Bush's.

The world is not happy with Obie these days. He wants to bankrupt the world's economy the same way he's bankrupting that of the United States.

BOOOOO!

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Ron Indiana — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:29:27 GMT

A trip to the dentist for a root canal took priority over FR posts.

I am pleased to see Rick Wagnor discharged. GM was failing under his leadership. The Government has a major stake in GM so they can expect a change. Any company that is failing should have a change in leadership. That is how it is supposed to work.

McCain, Corker, McDonnell called the dismissal of Wagoner unprecedented. It is not! When the government first bailed out AIG: the AIG CEO left. When the govt. bailed out Fannie: the Fannie CEO left. when the govt bailed out Freddie: the Freddie CEO left.

David Shuster tried to make the case on Hypocrisy Watch that President Obama was treating Wall Street CEOs different thaan Rick Wagoner. It revealed a "stunningly superficial" analysis of David's part as he seems to have dismissed the departure of AIG, Freddie, and Fannie's CEO.

Wall Street CEOs who have taken govt money know that they could be next to go. Wagoners departure will do more to change Wall Street than a dozen speeches and congressional hearings. Wagoners dismissal was a good move. When CEO's jobs are at risk, that changes the company's culture. You can take that to the bank (pun intended).

What is President Obama's stragegy? It is very clear and pundits should be focusing on it. First, Brief government take-over, Second, Replace key management. Third, Make the company solvent again. and Four (the most important) give it back to the private sector. That is not socialism...It is regulated capitalism.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Rick,Ky — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:32:37 GMT

Now repeat after me :

Osama, Drill Baby Drill, Socialism, The Teleprompter,now repeat after me, Osama, drill baby Drill, Socialism, The Teleprompter

O yeah & don't forget, Tax Cuts for the Wealthy, Abortion & gay marriage !

Just your daily Diatribe from your friendly GOP !handbook

First thoughts: New York state of mind

MSierra, SF — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:34:58 GMT

The Three Stooges: Reagan, Bush & Bush

From Salon.com:

‘.... Of the roughly $11 trillion in federal debt accumulated to date, more than 90 percent can be attributed to the tenure of three presidents: Ronald Reagan, who used to complain constantly about runaway spending; George Herbert Walker Bush, reputed to be one of those old-fashioned green-eyeshade Republicans; and his spendthrift son George "Dubya" Bush, whose trillion-dollar war and irresponsible tax cuts accounted for nearly half the entire burden....’

More than 90% of our NATION DEBT was accumulated by the Three Stooges !!

Supply Side Economics, anyone ?

How about the Laffer Curve ?
That still works, doesn't it ?

First thoughts: New York state of mind

David James, (near) London, UK — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:35:35 GMT

Many Americans, especially Democrats, will freak when they realise that President Obama will be meeting in London certain Members of Parliament and House of Lords who have fallen under the spell of Todd Bentley, Rick Joyner and Peter Wagner. These Lakeland controversial ministers could not get to him in The USA, but do so in London. How Ironic.
See:
http://endtimespropheticwords.wordpress.com/2009/03/26/rick-joyner-and-peter-c-peter-wagner-narzies-much-closer-to-uk-parliament/

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Nashville_fan — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:38:13 GMT

Someone needs to do a poll and find out what the American people think about the state of media in this country . . . now THAT is a number that I would love to know.
=================================================
In terms of the the amount of "deference" the Congress shows to President Obama, I don't know if that is the proper term. I don't know that we need a Congress to "defer" to the President.

I think what the American people would like is for the Congress to spend as much time thinking about what is best in the LONG TERM for the people they represent as they do thinking about what is best in the SHORT TERM for themselves.

It's not that no one foresaw the problems that we are currently facing, it is that no one had the political COURAGE to do anything about it. And apparently, many still don't.

So much of what Congress is doing right now can be catergorized as covering their collective a$$e$ as it becomes apparent that they have put their own interests ahead of the people's.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

RichardinDelmar — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:41:13 GMT

Two points.

First Cook has it right about the 20th. The best voter turn out effort wins. The fact that Tedesco is in a race is already news. Murphy should have been an easy target in this Republican district.

Second on bailouts. There has been an over focus on who gets paid what, with the comparison between auto workers and wall street hedge fund managers. Lets step back and think, folks.

The two auto companies, as structured are not viable. If they don't change, someone will have to supply money for a very long time. Think Chrysler who Daimler walked away from GM has two good brands about 3 of so so value and the rest loosers. Also, at stake is not only union workers but the bond holders who are holding out for far too much money. If they continue to balk,then GM is dead.

On the other side, AIG has 2 real problems but about 7 other companies in the group that provides insurance to all of us. If they went under, many of us would be without home insurance, life insurance and many other types. The big banks are out of control and need to be broken up but they are not terminal as are the two car companies.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

gepa — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:41:46 GMT

Michael Steele is so pathetic, he is so jealous of President Obama. Then he tries to compare his 10 cent job to the President of the United States-- so sad for him.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

MSierra, SF — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:42:49 GMT

Time for some 'Tough Love'

Bad news from the War Machine !!

From Yahoo News via WashingtonMonthly:

'...Nearly 7 in 10 major U.S. arms programs over budget

By Jim Wolf Jim Wolf – Mon Mar 30, 4:14 pm ET

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Nearly 70 percent of the Pentagon's 96 major weapons-buying programs were over budget in 2008 for combined cost growth of $296 billion above original estimates, congressional auditors said in an annual report released on Monday.

The total estimated development cost for 10 of the largest acquisition programs, commanding about half the overall arms- purchasing dollars in the portfolio, has shot up 32 percent from initial estimates, from about $134 billion to more than $177 billion, the Government Accountability Office said.

The two largest programs -- Lockheed Martin Corp's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft and the Boeing Co-led Future Combat Systems Army modernization -- "still represent significant cost risk moving forward" and will dominate the portfolio for years, the survey said.

Ashton Carter, the Obama administration's choice to become the Pentagon's top arms buyer, told his Senate confirmation hearing on Thursday he would go program by program to crack down on cost overruns if confirmed.

Of those reporting relevant cost data, 69 percent, or 64 programs, chalked up increases in total acquisition costs, the GAO said.

A total of 75 percent, or 69 programs, reported increases in research and development costs and these were 42 percent above their original estimates in 2008, up from 40 percent above the year before.

At the same time, the average delay in delivering weapons' "initial operating capabilities" rose to 22 months from 21 months, the seventh annual survey of its kind showed.

Cumulative cost overruns for major U.S. Defense Department acquisition programs, or $296 billion, were down slightly from 2007 when adjusted for inflation, the auditors said.

GAO said new programs in the portfolio were performing better than older ones.

Last year, GAO reported total acquisition cost growth for the 2007 portfolio was $295 billion in fiscal 2008 dollars. Now expressed in 2009 dollars, this figure was put at $301 billion in the new report.

Since 2003, the Pentagon's portfolio of major acquisition programs has grown from 77 to 96, with investment in them swelling from $1.2 trillion to $1.6 trillion in fiscal 2009 dollars, the GAO said.

The change in the makeup of the 2008 portfolio is one of the reasons for the $5 billion decrease in total acquisition cost growth over the last year.

Three programs left the mix, knocking $15.6 billion off total cost overruns, the GAO said. The three were the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle, which involves rockets built by Lockheed Martin Corp and Boeing; Northrop Grumman Corp's E-2C Hawkeye battle-management aircraft; and Raytheon Co's Land Warrior infantry modernization project.

The cost of the new and remaining programs in the 2008 portfolio has increased by about $10.7 billion since last year, even though quantities have been cut 25 percent or more for 15 of the programs, GAO said.

"The time for change is now," Gene Dodaro, the acting U.S. Comptroller General said in a cover letter to Congress.

He said it was essential to eliminate underperforming or lower-priority programs by completing or canceling them...'

Worried about deficits ?

HERE'S where to CUT

Most of these programs are BOONDOGGLES !!

CUT 'EM ALL !!!

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Bob, tidioute, PA — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:43:43 GMT

Palomino can tell him/herself whatever he/she has to to get through each day. It's pretty clear that the world is ready for a Proactive U.S. President, even if some nations want to throw temper tantrums.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Houston — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:45:32 GMT

"Why have recent Democratic presidents (Carter, Clinton, and now Obama) received less deference from congressional Democrats than GOP presidents have received from congressional Republicans?"
--------------------------------------------------

The answer is obvious: the Democrats have always been a fractious coalition of competing interests and free thinkers who don't always act according to party dictates. The Republcans put party above all else, including America.

That's why the Senate Repubs are threatening "World War III" if the Democratic majority tries to seat Sen. Franken, the guy who won the Minnessota election. Most Republicans will gladly risk destroying America to regain power. Most Democrats would not.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Pete - Albany, NY — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:46:22 GMT

"if Republicans can’t win this slightly GOP-leaning district, where else can they win"
-------------------------------------------------
A Democrat won this seat in 2006 and 2008. I think it's time we let go of the 'GOP-leaning district' line. If this were Texas, I'd say the GOP has a reason to be concerned. But this is hardly a Republican stronghold as evidenced by the last 2 elections.
Arthur Spooner (Sent Tuesday, March 31, 2009 9:25 AM)

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

I disagree...it is still very much a Republican stronghold.

A win for Democrats in the district in the last 2 elections is all well and good, but the GOP won the 14 elections in the district prior to 2006.

2-14...how would you feel if your favorite NFL team had that record?

First thoughts: New York state of mind

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:46:49 GMT

"... guess it's easier to take pot shots from behind the trees than roll up your sleeves and actually try to build something from scratch. ..."
Nashville_fan (Sent Tuesday, March 31, 2009 9:28 AM)

LOL...yeah, just like it's easier to TALK-TALK-TALK (like Obama-The-Lip does) than it is to actually FIX the problem.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Eric, Salinas, CA — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:48:15 GMT

Isn't it ironic that Tedisco looks like Bernie Madoff's brother? Come on NY-20 don't vote for a Madoff clone who's just scamming you. Vote for Murphy and bring a younger smarter man to Congress.

I found it laughable that yesterday McNasty is in the Senate whining about the unprecedented ouster of Wagoner as CEO of GM. Too bad Alzheimer McNasty can't remember back just 6 months to when his pal Bush ousted the AIG CEO. The more he opens his mouth the more ignorant he makes himself sound.

Finally we get to see an intelligent president make the Europe scene. It is so wonderful to not see that moron Clueless George making our country look and sound stupid.

In Obama We Trust!
In Murphy We Trust!

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Brian, Girard, OH — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:49:29 GMT

Wow, almost 10:00 am eastern and no baseless rantings about a teleprompter.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

BJ, CA — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:49:39 GMT

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SI4qAfykngY

History tends to teach us our mistakes..all we can do is be bound to laugh at and or repeat them...

Just don't sign on to any lies with liars...

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Nashville_fan — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:50:57 GMT

Why does the media continue to gloss over the treasonous acts of former Vice President Cheney?

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Eric, Salinas, CA — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:53:57 GMT

The punditry better not make a premature victory call for the repugnant ones if Tedisco fools the voters of NY-20. Even if the Irrelevant Elephants were to win this one seat it is not a sign that they are on the comeback trail because NY-20 is one of their districts by voter registration. If they lose then well break out the shovels and let's bury the Dead Elephant before it stinks up our country more than it already has.

Isn't it sad that the repugnant ones are trying to block the nomination of Dawn Johnston for a judicial position? The repugnant ones are scared she'll investigate the crooked bushwacker administration for torture abuses. Time for the criminals of the bushwhacker's administration to pay for their crimes against humanity, and not in a Spanish court but in our own.

Let's hope that the repugnant ones end up wasting a lot of money losing NY-20. Nothing could be better than to see them waste their precious resources on losing causes.

In Obama We Trust!
In Murphy We Trust!

First thoughts: New York state of mind

J. Ellis, Virginia — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:54:37 GMT

Far too much emphasis is being placed on the NY-20. We are talking about upstate NY and Gillibrand is about as Repub as you can get and still call yourself a Dem. I would give the edge to Murphy due mostly to Michael Steele's involvement in the race. Please don't stop talking, Mr. Steele, you are truly the gift that keeps on giving.

And "With Friends Like These": The Dems have historically been a party that like to play it safe and they quickly forget about the abuses of the Repubs. The Repubs have been a party that can be tricked and mesmerized into believing anything if you use buzzwords/phrases such as raise taxes, socialist, terrorist, or any sentence that contains guns, gays and the Bible. They are easily led.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

OBAMA'S IN OVER HIS HEAD AND EVERYBODY KNOWS IT — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:55:21 GMT

"...The Three Stooges:
Reagan, Bush & Bush
From Salon.com: ‘.... Of the roughly $11 trillion in federal debt accumulated to date, more than 90 percent can be attributed to the tenure of three presidents: Ronald Reagan, who used to complain constantly about runaway spending; George Herbert Walker Bush, reputed to be one of those old-fashioned green-eyeshade Republicans; and his spendthrift son George "Dubya" Bush, whose trillion-dollar war and irresponsible tax cuts accounted for nearly half the entire burden....’
More than 90% of our NATION DEBT was accumulated by the Three Stooges !!
Supply Side Economics, anyone ?
How about the Laffer Curve ?
That still works, doesn't it ? ..."
MSierra, SF (Sent Tuesday, March 31, 2009 9:34 AM)

Obama promised "change" and bi-partisanship.
Repeatedly telling us how bad Bush was, is nothing more than excuse-making for Obama's inability to fix our problems.
Obama needs to fix the problems or step aside.
LEAD, FOLLOW or GET THE HELL OUT OF THE WAY!
We need LEADERSHIP not SHOWMANSHIP.
So far, all I see is the latter, and a lot of "excuse-making" from obaMANIACS like you.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Eric, Salinas, CA — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:59:07 GMT

Hey MSierra - Love your post on the three stooges - Reagan, Bush and Bush. I say we name the national debt after them - the Reagan, Bush & Bush National Debt. The only way to get rid of the name is to pay the debt off completely. Since the repugnant ones are so fond of naming everything after their deadbeat three stooges let's give them what they want by naming the national debt after the three stooges!

I'm glad that Kathleen Sebelius is going to win her nomination as HHS head. I'm sure the repugnant ones will whine as they always do about something inconsequential.

In Obama We Trust!
In Murphy We Trust!

First thoughts: New York state of mind

J. Ellis, Virginia — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:01:48 GMT

The President's First 100 Days is rapidly coming to a close and in my area, we still don't have the pictures of the President and VP in the Federal Buildings. What's up with that?

Even though there are those that continue to have heartburn because he is the POTUS may find it easier if they see his picture representing the change that has come to America.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Nashville_fan — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:02:01 GMT

To OBAMA'S IN OVER HIS HEAD AND EVERYBODY KNOWS IT :

So are you J. Merle, so are you.

Let's wait a year, and then rant.

(And that's OBAMA RAMA DING DONG to you.)

lol

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Rock,Janesville,Wisconsin — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:03:42 GMT

President Obama will do very well in Europe, and the European Leaders are willing to work with an intellectual President. The leaders of Europe had better understand that our new President can speak clearly, thinks ideas through, rationally comes to solid conclusions, and can multi-tash on many issues at one time. The European Leaders already are aware that this is not. "Brainless Bush" and his evil master "Chump-Change-Cheney!" Is the Holder Justice Department aware yet that "Darth Cheney" continues admitting too committing War Crimes?? As for the elections in NY. Hey! Hey! Ho! Ho! The GOP has got to go!! Time to move forward America!!

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Brian Crooks, Naperville, IL — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:04:23 GMT

Obama promised "change" and bi-partisanship.
Repeatedly telling us how bad Bush was, is nothing more than excuse-making for Obama's inability to fix our problems.
Obama needs to fix the problems or step aside.
LEAD, FOLLOW or GET THE HELL OUT OF THE WAY!
We need LEADERSHIP not SHOWMANSHIP.
So far, all I see is the latter, and a lot of "excuse-making" from obaMANIACS like you.
=================================================
Well then, that puts you in the minority with about 33% of the rest of the country. I guess that means 66% of the country counts as "ObaManiacs" because they aren't willing to forget that he's trying to fix what was done over the past 8 years. If this was a company and Obama was a new CEO, you wouldn't demand his resignation because he couldn't fix the rampant corruption and unsustainable business activities of his predecessor of 8 years. But then again, that's what the lunatic fringe does. And yes, at 33%, you're definitely in the "fringe" category.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:04:51 GMT

Once again I see FIRST READ picks and chooses which posters get unrestricted access to the board, and which posters are censored.
The Obama-Rama-Ding-Dongs get unlimited posts and free speech...the rest of us aren't allowed to express our concerns and opinions.
I'm beginning to think the right wing-nuts are correct. The media IS leftist-leaning and has an extreme liberal agenda.
...and this is coming from a moderate-liberal-leaning Democrat.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Moon Dawg — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:05:35 GMT

Bob in PA

Does a pro-active president have to be a stupid, moronic, arrogant, big-eared socialist?

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Brian, Girard, OH — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:07:05 GMT

The Repubs have been a party that can be tricked and mesmerized into believing anything if you use buzzwords/phrases such as raise taxes, socialist, terrorist, or any sentence that contains guns, gays and the Bible. They are easily led.
J. Ellis, Virginia (Sent Tuesday, March 31, 2009 9:54 AM)
=====================================================
Don't forget teleprompter, muslim, arab, anything about ACORN(even though most of them don't know what it means) Bill Ayers, the rant that he would take our guns away or, if you really want to laugh, ask almost any republican exactly why they "like" Sarah Palin and watch them fumble around for a legitimate sounding reason or say "I just do."

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Anna Molly — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:08:29 GMT

Booooo? Looks like someone is having an attack of sour grapes this morning. Or maybe pink grapefruit. Sheesh.

Ding, dong, the Bush is ... well, gone ... long live Obama.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Moonshadow — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:08:41 GMT

Obama is stuck in the mud but apparently loves the attention. He's writing American checks that will bounce. The Brits will take care of his ego this afternoon. I just hope it doesn't get too ugly.

Not a good time to visit overseas. Obama saw to that.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Beverly in Chicago — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:08:59 GMT

it will be an early test of the GOP’s health in the post-Bush era (if Republicans can’t win this slightly GOP-leaning district, where else can they win?); and

it will be an early test of Obama’s coattails (if the Democrats lose, Republicans will see it as a sign of the end of the president’s honeymoon
...................>>>>>>>>>>.>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>....................................
The test is whether they win or lose is communicating with people in respect to their differences,"

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Palomino — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:13:35 GMT

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Dottie Swarthmore PA — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:15:20 GMT

I was very disappointed in David Shuster last night. David said several times that President Obama had lunch with bank CEO's, this is a false statement.There was NO FOOD at the meeting, only water. I suggest that David check his facts and offer an apology to his audience.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Brian, Girard, OH — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:20:03 GMT

Does a pro-active president have to be a stupid, moronic, arrogant, big-eared socialist?
Moon Dawg (Sent Tuesday, March 31, 2009 10:05 AM)

====================================================
I knew it wouldn't take long to see this sort of behavoir.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Anna Molly — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:21:10 GMT

Question: Why is a "dawg" complaining about the size of the president's ears? Envy, perhaps?

First thoughts: New York state of mind

justobserveID — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:21:48 GMT

Promise me, Palomino Sheep, that when Obama gets cheered in Europe this week, that you'll STFU! Really.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

brooklyn and i — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:24:49 GMT

issued March 25 by the New York State Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Cabinet,

entry in the massive, 774-page Second Draft List - Project Proposals (PDF),

http://www.recovery.ny.gov/assets/pdf/internet_20090325

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Michigan Sue — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:25:25 GMT

For Sale: Teleprompter. Formerly used by George W. Bush, Dick Cheney, Sarah Paling and John McCain. (didn't work, but may be able to repair.)

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Jill F., Tulsa, OK — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:26:00 GMT

I would like to know the demographics of the people being polled.

I would also like to know why these people are being so easy on President Obama.

As far as I can see, the guy has done nothing of value for this country...he hasn't even feigned an interest in bipartisanship (i.e., blaming Bush at every turn), and this is evident by the posts of Obama supporters on this blog (especially Eric in Salinas). I think he deserves a chance, but I also think that he shouldn't always get the benefit of the doubt.

The sooner everyone realizes that Obama is politics as usual, the better off we will all be!! He's not above the fray, as you all would like to think...he is right in the middle of all of this mess. How else do you think he got to where he is so quickly? Just keeping it real!

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Just Sayin' — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:27:06 GMT

Palomino and Moonshadow need to sit on their couches, sucking their thumbs and drooling over Fox News. That's about as intelligent as they can get. What a pair of losers.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Anna Molly — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:32:15 GMT

Dottie ~ Maybe the bankers all agreed to give up food as penance and the water WAS lunch.

On second thought, maybe not. ;)

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Childish Things — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:32:31 GMT

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Jody, Iowa — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:32:44 GMT

I don't think it's a big deal that Pres Obama has to work with congressional democrats to promote his agenda; for the most part they are onboard with his health care issues, energy and education. Democrats have always been independent thinkers. Republicans have always been good at marching in lockstep and obeying their party chiefs; unfortunately, that does not usually benefit the American people. We have only to look at the yes votes to anything and everything Bush requested without questioning anything, and the end result: two unfinished wars, massive debt with nothing to show for the money, economic meltdown. At least McCain did question the Bush tax cuts for awhile before he, too, fell in lockstep.

Pres Obama will be received well overseas, the people like him; just because the country's don't agree with everything he has proposed doesn't mean the honeymoon is over. The Medvedev article proves that Pres Obama's foreign policy is pointed in the right direction. Bush, under the direction of Cheney, was so trapped in ideology that great harm was done to America and far too many opportunities were lost.

The press seems to have forgotten that many banking CEO's are gone. Pres Obama didn't have to fire them because it was done under Bush. David Shuster, you let me down on that hypocrisy watch but you'll again be right. There's been so much turmoil and daily news, it's no wonder the happenings last fall have receded in our minds. What I found humerous was the clips of GOP Sen Bob Corker last fall demanding that the union auto worker take pay cuts so their wages would equal those of foreign automakers--that was OK for the Government to request but yesterday, he was having a fit that Pres Obama dared to fire the GM CEO. More proof that republicans are anti-union, anti-middle class, anti-blue collar worker.

Pres Obama does more than talk, he gets things done and in the process he tells us what he is doing. What a change.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Brian Crooks, Naperville, IL — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:33:21 GMT

We can no longer use the term "war on terror."

Hillary has become an embarrassment. Rice was much better. Hillary kisses too much butt. She's an international groupie. Another bad choice for Obie.

The term "war on terror" was coined by President Bush so they obviously want to eradicate it like it doesn't exist. More Dem political insanity.
===============================================
That's because "war on terror" is a catchphrase that doesn't make any sense. You can't fight a war against an ideology. If we were going to fight a war on terror, we would start with groups like the KKK and the neo-Nazi groups here. We would also look to take out the Tiger Rebels in Southeast Asia, the Wighurs in China, the FARC in Central America, the warring factions in Africa, etc. We're not fighting a "war on terror," we're fighting a war against a specific terrorist group in a limited part of the globe. I know that's not as catchy a catchphrase, but it's more accurate. Saying we're fighting a war on terror is just like saying we're fighting a war on drugs or a war on illiteracy or a war on hatred. Sounds good but doesn't actually explain what we're doing.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Brian Crooks, Naperville, IL — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:35:27 GMT

I would like to know the demographics of the people being polled.

I would also like to know why these people are being so easy on President Obama.
=================================================
The demographic is "American voters" and they're "being easy" on the President because they think he's making the right decisions.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

The Blogger Formerly Known As Moon Maid — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:35:35 GMT

Just Sayin' ~ Depends on the game, doesn't it?

First thoughts: New York state of mind

jawillie, Philadelphia, PA. — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:40:22 GMT

>>>Once again I see FIRST READ picks and chooses which posters get unrestricted access to the board, and which posters are censored.
The Obama-Rama-Ding-Dongs get unlimited posts and free speech...the rest of us aren't allowed to express our concerns and opinions.
I'm beginning to think the right wing-nuts are correct. The media IS leftist-leaning and has an extreme liberal agenda.
...and this is coming from a moderate-liberal-leaning Democrat.
J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY (Sent Tuesday, March 31, 2009 10:04 AM)

==========
And yet, as always, your postings manage to get through with startling regularity.

http://jawillie.blog.com

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Clara Kansas City, MO — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:40:36 GMT

All,

Haven't you noticed that *Moon*.anything = same Rush talking point du jour? I suspect that Bad Chiuahiua and Palomino are also one in the same. They show up together, eat the same crap together and spew the same garbage together. That's what happens when the teenagers skip school. Pretty soon someone's going to end up strung out and pregnant. Where are the parents, I ask?

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Nashville_fan — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:41:37 GMT

"I would like to know the demographics of the people being polled.

I would also like to know why these people are being so easy on President Obama. " - Jill F., Tulsa OK
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
"These people" are your fellow AMERICANS, the same folks that made Barcack Obama the President of the United states less than 5 months ago.

What do you propose that the President could have done in the past 60+ days that would have made everything all better?

What does the President's positioning in, above, or below "the fray" have to do with it?

Since the President represents "politics as usual", why does he make you so upset? You should be used to it by now, right?

What do the the "demograpics" of those being polled have to do with anything?

Your argument basically boils down to "I don't like the President, and I don't understand why anyone else would."

Perhaps a little more patience and a little less political posturing will make it all come into focus for you eventually.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Clara Kansas City, MO — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:42:30 GMT

PS. I don't think Jill F., Tulsa, OK or J. Merle Stanley Westchester, NY are ever going to get over Hillary's loss. And while they constantly remind us what Liberal Dems they are - their vitriole against President Obama is just petty, at this point. Seriously, ladies, give it a rest.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Rick, NC — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:42:54 GMT

When is the president going to start firing some of the wall street scum who caused this economic downturn? i know the republicans will bitch about socialism but when those companies took taxpayer welfare then they should have expected government ownership...duh hello

First thoughts: New York state of mind

katiec — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:42:57 GMT

The election in NY is not nearly as crucial as the media makes it out to be. This area is a republican stronghold and will be very hard for a Democrat to win.
FR, saying that if they win they are getting rid of their demons is stupid and of course bias. They create more demons every day, everytime they open their mouths and continue their hypocritical postering. They are not the politicians we want leading our country.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Jose Von Hussein - The United States of America — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:43:43 GMT

"But writing in the New Republic, Jon Chait raises this interesting question: Why have recent Democratic presidents (Carter, Clinton, and now Obama) received less deference from congressional Democrats than GOP presidents have received from congressional Republicans?"

Ummm.... hello?!? Several things:

1) Democrats have liberals, moderates and conservatives. Republicans have - well, mostly conservatives. Do the math. That one ain't hard.

2) You're really comparing what - 70 days or so of the beginning of a Presidential term with the whole of Bush's first term? Give the guy a break! He got a 787 billion dollar stimulus package through in a few weeks, and still has great approval ratings.

3) Democrats have ALWAYS been different than Republicans in this regard. Republicans swallow hard, and line up behind whoever is their "leader." Democrats actually bother to think and have differing opinions, even if they do eventually fall in line. But they make some noise in the interim.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

New Independent — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:43:46 GMT

MSierra, SF - I'm right with you! Hope they go after them. I don't know what this country is waiting for! Torture is illegal!~ And NOBODY is above the law!

First thoughts: New York state of mind

GP NW Indiana — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:44:31 GMT

The world is not happy with Obie these days. He wants to bankrupt the world's economy the same way he's bankrupting that of the United States.

BOOOOO!
Palomino (Sent Tuesday, March 31, 2009 9:29 AM)
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The world is not happy with america...

While we are at war we will always hear boo's

First thoughts: New York state of mind

Ashburn, VA — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:55:30 GMT

I would like to know the demographics of the people being polled.

I would also like to know why these people are being so easy on President Obama. " - Jill F., Tulsa OK
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Jill, the readers of the Washington Post are being polled. In case you don't read the Post regularly, their masthead might as well have the words 'the official mouthpiece of the Obama team' beneath it. So it's hardly reliable or representative of most Americans' views.

First thoughts: New York state of mind

mexed, san antonio, texas — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 15:38:26 GMT

The make up of the district should push it republican. It will say more about the republicans if it does not go their way.