First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

JIrby, Colorado — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:06:20 GMT

On Romney: It's okay for a Republican to flip-flop.

What isn't okay is for the word "Republican" to be in the same sentence with the word "freedom".

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

jerry/corpus christi texas — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:09:01 GMT

The Clinton's had a pretty rough week last week. Hillary's debate skills really need some polishing and her answers really got her into a hole at times. Offering $5000 for every baby born is just going to make the poor go into baby mode and expand the welfare state that Hillary loves so dearly. Bill Clinton was just as bad, threatening a restaurant owner and trying to destroy free speech by forcing GQ to cancel a story about infighting in the Clinton campaign. The story in the LA Times also did them no favors as well. Hopefully this will continue to drag down the democratic party and my guys will bring home the victory in 08. Hillary is loved in the east and hated in the west, so the south(and probably Florida) will be the line drawn in the sand again for the democrats.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

juan,ft lauderdale,fl — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:09:52 GMT

95 DAYS!!!!!Is their any wonder why American voters are so turned off by politics and voting. Everyday now we are going to be bombared adnauseum.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:11:53 GMT

* * * * B U S H S U C K S * * * *

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

juan,ft lauderdale, fl — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:12:27 GMT

JIrby-You are not kidding. Just finished reading John Dean's book Broken Government. SO SCARY!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Chuck, NY — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:12:52 GMT

Chuck & Domenico-

"considering how Clinton has become more of an entrenched frontrunner". Why are you two so entrenched with HRC? I have sensed all along that her polling numbers are inaccurate, as evidenced by the latest Newsweek poll. Is it true you really want her to be the nominee? I feel Senator Obama's numbers are more accurate, and a win by him in Iowa will propel him past HRC to the nomination. Unless you two have other media ideas.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

NotALemming — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:17:17 GMT

Since when has Newsweek been flattering to any GOP candidate. Based on the obvious bias of the Newsweek reporters who frequent MSNBC's Hardball and other left of center programs like Countdown I wouldn't expect anything less than unflattering from Newsweek or MSNBC.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Tuck, Realityville, Kansas — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:18:01 GMT

so chuckie, Clintons poll numbers are wrong, Obama's are correct, and Edwards?

Geez....Could you let your emotions control your opinions any more? You're sounding like a republican.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:19:31 GMT

I really don't have anything to say because I'm just not knowledgeable when it comes to politics. Just call me stupid.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Dickie Flatts, Charlotte, NC — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:19:48 GMT

Re: The Clinton Electability Issue

The media loves the narrative and her desperate opponents are playing to it with their unattributed comments.

The fact is the numbers are the numbers. Clinton head to head against the GOP front runners leads them in all the blue states. She leads them in purple states like Minnesota, New Mexico, and Iowa. She leads them in red states like Arkansas, Virginia, and Ohio.

Heck even Tennesee looks very competitive should it be Clinton vs. Giulinai.

Clinton isn't only electable she is looking at a 300+ Electoral College victory.

Want to talk down the ticket? If Clinton is supposed to be so much trouble there, why is she leading in endorsements all across the country, among state and federal lawmakers? Are they committing political suicide? Are all these people dumb? No. Of course not.

The Edwards camp is pushing a lot of this stuff. This is the same camp that says they can win in the south. Seen Edwards South Carolina numbers lately?

Look at the numbers and ignore the off the record B.S. from campaigns that are going nowhere.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

John B, Des Moines, IA — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:20:33 GMT

It's about time Freedom's Watch got some attention. Their $25M ad campaign pretty much manufactured the President's recent mini-bump in the polls out of thin air and propaganda. They pretend to be a grass-roots organization but with Ari Fleischer in top management and a $200M goal for this campaign they're clearly the GOP pretending to be something else.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

juan,ft lauderdale,fl — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:24:00 GMT

If certain voters(you know who you are in this blog) still believe that Republicans are the party of moral/family values vis-a-vis Craig and Vitters your stupidity, denial, and mindset is more scarier than these desbicable lying politicians.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Rick, WS. NC — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:30:34 GMT

Who are these repuke candidates and why don't even the bushies care about them? All we hear is how much the bushies don't like the dem candidates, you know the ones the would never vote for anyway...but yet the bushie/chickenhawk crowd stays silent on their crop of preachers and leachers...I don't get it..actually I do

The current candidates haven't preached enough hate and war for the bushie/chickenhawk crowd...even mitt the flip flopper who says he would gladly start a nuckear war for your vote isn't excitting you guys...lmao

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

RKA, IL — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:39:49 GMT

I think the reason that much of the media has been "entrenched" with HIllary is that they know her nomination will be good for business: a dirty, personal campaign that the media loves. And if she is elected, there will similarly be constant combat, polarization, scandals, etc - the stuff that pays the bills of political reporters and pundits. It's unfortunate that the interests of the media and the interests of the country are at cross-purposes. We shall see whose interests prevail.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Robert Catalano, Salem, OR — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:41:04 GMT

What's so surprising about Freedom Watch's ads not being scrutinized more closely for facts? The MSM hasn't scrutinized much of anything said about this war going in, during or staying in. About the only mantra I hear from the media is "support the troops." Everyone, even us against the war, supports the troops. Why don't you support us and do some fact checking on everything this Administration and its attack dogs say? The MSM has been complicit in prosecuting a war we should've never been in, aided in outing a CIA agent and given little coverage to anything but sex scandals. The MSM should win the Joseph Goebbels Award for Best Pandering Propoganda for its coverage of the US entry into the war in Iraq.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Al, KS — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:46:20 GMT

What ever I think about the Clinton's, I have to admit that they were smart by capturing all of the media for the last 2 weeks. Hillary appeared on all of the Sunday shows last week, and Bill had his Global Inititive this week. That guaranteed that he would be on all of the shows throughout this week. Two weeks of press coverage and the media fell for it, crowding out all of the other candidates. All of the other candidates were lucky to get in a 5 second sound bite.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

HMT-MI — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:49:51 GMT

I will vote for my party,whomever wins the primary-----to vote for any of the Bush party I would consider a sin against humanity.I cannot think of one good deed that this bunch has given to this country.Murder and war,a rotten economy,home foreclosures,joblessness,why go on.We arealreadyseeingthe flip-floppingRomney using hismillionsto buy theoffice of president---same as Bush did----Sure I know he was born in MI but he is sure not a favorite son.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Sierra, SF — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:50:08 GMT

This is the LA Times story they were talking about:
Hillary will be toxic toxic for Democratic chances in the West.
From the LA Times:

Local Democrats in West fear impact of unpopular
ticket leader

By Noam N. Levey, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
September 30, 2007

'BOZEMAN, MONT. -- Election day was still more than a
year off when Sen. Max Baucus ......'
...as he prepares to run for a fifth term next year,
Baucus is entering treacherous territory. Despite
recent gains by Democrats in the Rocky Mountain West,
party officials across the region are increasingly
anxious that their congressional candidates may get
dragged under by Hillary Rodham Clinton's presidential
campaign.

The New York senator and Democratic front-runner was
by a wide margin the most unpopular of 13 potential
presidential candidates in Montana, according to a
June survey by Mason-Dixon Polling & Research for the
Billings Gazette; 61% said they would not consider
voting for her, compared with 49% who would not vote
for former North Carolina Sen. John Edwards and 45%
who would not vote for Illinois Sen. Barack Obama. The
most unpopular Republican candidate, former
Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, was rejected by 51%.

Recent polls in Colorado, Nevada and Arizona have
found similar distaste for Clinton.

"She's carrying huge negatives out here," said Floyd
Ciruli, an independent Colorado pollster who said
Democratic congressional candidates would have to
highlight their differences with the national party to
be successful next year. "It's that liberal East Coast
image that is so hard to sell in the West....'

'....One key advisor to a prominent Democratic
congressional candidate, who asked not be to
identified discussing tensions within the party, went
even further. "It's a disaster for Western Democrats,"
he said. "It keeps me up at night....'

Most people remember the scandals and corruption of the Clinton administration.
The Clintons lost us our Democratic majorities in the Senate and the House.
No problem they screwed the Congressional Democrats and 'triangulated', cutting out Democrats and dealing exclusively with Republicans to craft a Republican agenda.
Is that what we want ?
An invasion of Iran (which Hillary has already voted for, see Lieberman-Kyl).
No withdrawal from Iraq before 2013 !!
More outsourcing of American jobs.
Corruption, scandals and cover ups rivaling the Bush Administration !

Hillary Clinton, 15 years of dishonesty, scandals and divisiveness

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

rick,ky — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:50:59 GMT

It still amazes me that after all this time so far, that Chuck, Mark & Domenico still have their collective heads so far up Hillary's rearend, they can't Fathom the idea Barack is coming. He outraises her, outpoles her (the ones she does'nt control)& still no Good news to report from this bunch.Why No reporting on Hillary's impromptu speaking engagement that drew 10-20,000 supporters( oh wait there's been None). Ya know why she has none? It's because she's just like bush, if you are'nt there to scream & yell her name ( like an idiot) she wants None of You. It's very telling of her ( claiming to be the anti-bush) then doing the very things we've despised for the last several years.Politics as usual, I THINK THE AMERICAN VOTER HAS GOTTEN WAY PAST THAT & not a moment to soon.All you hillary fanatic's have been asking, " Will you not vote for her instead of a Gay Ole Pedophile", I ask, " Will you vote for Barack instead of a gay Ole Pedophile?

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Sierra, SF — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 14:56:07 GMT

From the Huff Post
This is a blog about the dishonesty and denial of Hillary's supporters.

'... Richard Gizbert

London Calling: Memo to Hillary Supporters -- Tell It
Like It Really Is
Posted September 30, 2007 | 05:42 PM (EST)

I have a favor to ask of some of you Hillary Clinton
supporters, particularly the females among you. And
you are legion.

"Yes, I know Hillary was wrong to vote for the Iraq
war. But I'm going to overlook that because she's a
woman, and so am I. And it's time we had a woman
president in the U.S."

I suspect that a lot of women, most of them committed
Democrats, feel precisely that way. But they won't
admit it, at least not the ones I talk to.

I understand why Ms. Clinton has decided not to come
clean on why she voted for the war, and why she feels
she can't apologize.

To disclose the former would reveal the kind of
political calculation she'd rather not be known for,
but is. And when candidates apologize, that can be
seen as a sign of "weakness."

But I would hope that some of her fans could be honest
enough to say what really happened in the Iraq vote.
And why they still support her, despite hating the
war.

But rather than do that, Hillary's supporters subject
us to these absurd verbal contortions in trying to
justify their candidate casting the same vote as the
Republicans she's running against.

(And please, stop with the semantic, hair-splitting
canard about the difference between voting for
authorization and voting for the war. That's a
ridiculous argument, always was.)

Hilary's supporters won't acknowledge that, in voting
for the war, their candidate was still pandering to
her New York constituency, well after the 9/11
attacks.

They won't admit that, like Cheney, Hillary has linked
the Iraq war to 9/11, as recently as earlier this
year....'

So, why can;t Clinton cultists ADMIT that Hillary voter for the Iraq war ??
Does denial make this vote go away ?
This is a basic dishonesty of Clinton supporters ?
Maybe the common dishonesty of the Clintons draws those supporters to her.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:02:13 GMT

z- I really don't have anything to say because I'm just not knowledgeable when it comes to politics. Just call me stupid. ;;;;

Excellent! This is the first step in the recover process.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Hanoi Sally, Madison, WI — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:04:39 GMT

How dare those Republicans move in on MoveOn.org territory? I thought only the DEMS were allowed to put out propaganda. Next thing you know they’ll want to allow views other than our own in the main stream media. When will they learn that the only views that should be allowed in this country is the Progressive view – how dare them.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Sierra, SF — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:08:44 GMT

Mike Murphy, Republican campaign analyst: 'the national polls mean NOTHING until AFTER IOWA'

The Iowa results will give a MAJOR bump to the winner.

Combine this with a win in NH, and it could blow away the tacky Clinton machine.

This week end, conservative analyst, Pat Buchanon opined that Obama would be better positioned to take on Hillary.

After an Iowa victory, Obama could match Clinton in campaign funds/advertizing.

He thought that Edwards doens't have the campaign funds to defeat Hillary in the Democratic campaign.

After the early primaries, Iowa, NH, SC, big bucks are needed for advertizing in the compressed primary environment.

It was interesting that nobody was buying the Clinton 'inevitability'.
Apparently, this transparent hype is obvious to most that are following the campaign.

PS Hillary flopped in her week end Bay Area appearances.
No crowds, no enthusiasm, no dice !!

Hillary Clinton, 15 years of dishonesty, scandal and divisiveness

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

SMH, Atlanta GA — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:11:09 GMT

Larry Craig - "This is turning into a nightmare scenario for the party, which is struggling to keep its family values mantra."

HA! That was lost long ago.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:11:29 GMT

BUSH CONTINUES TO SUCK ! THAT IS ALL.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

matt — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:13:05 GMT

This is crunch time. With no one sure as to when the primary season will begin, it's time for the campaigns to get their act together and hit high gear. That means Fred is done.

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

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:18:21 GMT

GOOD AFTERNOON EVERYONE, INCLUDING THE "PERSON" WHO USED MY NAME TO MAKE A COMMENT. YES , IT IS MY CONTINUED OPINION THAT "BUSH SUCKS". THANK YOU.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:19:25 GMT

Ha...Ha..Bush Sucks !

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Sara, Cedar Rapids, Iowa — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:23:50 GMT

Edwards campaign is right about the polling by national organizations (and even the Des Moines Register)is not valid polling. Any one who has taken a statistics class knows there are certain rules that must be followed in order for a poll to have any validity. The first rule is to conduct your poll on the proper sample. A poll on a invalid sample CAN NOT become valid. A poll on the quality/value of pampers which consists of 80% people who have never changed a diaper would clearly be invalid if represented to reflect the opinion of pampers users of the product. This is where all Iowa polls fail, it isn't the polling companies fault that they don't start with a valid sample, however the media either doesn't understand the invalidity of the sample, or doesn't care. Neither option is acceptable.

The overwhelming number of Registered Democrats (& GOP) have never attended, and will not attend a caucus. If you get in and out of a Caucus in 2 hours you are happy it went so "quickly", in a state where it rarely takes a voter longer than 5-10 minutes to get in and out of their polling place in a Presidential election, committing 2+ hours of time to help select the parties nominee isn't something most Democrats want to do.

Caucus attendance among registered Democrats has NEVER reached 21%! In 04 and 88 caucus attendance was 20% of registered Democrats, most years it was in the low teens. Over 90% of the registered Democrats who attended the 04 caucus were prior caucus attendees.

Statistically a poll that is intended to show what "likely caucus goers" will do at the caucus needs to consist of at least 90% verified prior caucus goers. A proper poll can't determine whether the person being polled fits the required sample by asking that person questions. To be a proper/valid poll your sample has to be valid to begin with, and only the political candidates internal polling starts with the proper sample, that being independently verified prior caucus goers. The political parties own the caucus lists and to defray the cost of the caucuses (which are political party not state obligations) they sell the caucus lists. The Iowa Democratic party is charging 100,000 for the 04 list, and has sold the lists only to the candidates (except Gravel and Kucinich who haven't purchased lists)

Because the polling companies have not purchased the caucus list the poll sample is of random registered Democrats. Which is what Edwards campaign means about over polling. The Newsweek poll included 42% of its sample as likely caucus goers, that alone invalidates its poll. It is statistically impossible what 42% (more than 2 times Iowa's two highest caucus attendance years) of randomly selected registered Democrat would be likely to attend a caucus. If a undergraduate student at U of I turned in a poll with those results on a poll assignment, they'd flunk the class. Even if Newsweek limited its sample to the 20% who self identified themselves as definitely going to attend the caucus, it would be an invalid poll sample, merely because it relies on the participants self identification to determine whether they belong in the sample.

Of the 42% who Newsweek considered Likely caucus goers 64% claimed to have attended a prior caucus. If the polling Company knew the facts of caucus attendance, this would cause them to realize their results were invalid. It would indicate a very large number of those polled (over 50% of the 42% of the "likely caucus goers") falsely stated they have previously attended a caucus. The false statements were either an intentional effort to throw the poll off, or because people polled often answer in a light that makes them appear better. Good citizen are active in voting/caucuses, therefore they claim they will attend, and have done so before. When you have a poll result that clearly indicates an extremely large number of respondents were untruthful on a question the poll is invalid.

I don't doubt the top three are Edwards, Clinton, and Obama, but whether Edwards is #1, or #2 (highly unlikely he's three) I don't know. But I do know that the poll is meaningless, and Newsweek had an obligation to explain why the poll wasn't worth what they paid Princeton Survey Research. The fact that the poll increases its margin of error from plus or minus 5% of all Democrats, to plus or minus 7% of likely caucus goers reflects the understanding inherent in the respondents self identification of likely caucus goers, however the margin of error of likely caucus goers (the only relevant group in a caucus) is far more than 7% (or 9% with the GOP)given the group of likely caucus goers is more than double what it could be statistically.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

vanreuter, NY NY — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:28:24 GMT

Fav/Unfav

Obama 51-43%

Edwards 48-43%

Clinton 52-46%

Her numbers are just about the same as the other 2 now.

http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/favorables/election_2008_democratic_candidates_running_in_2008_presidential_election

Van

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Bob, Denver — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:37:22 GMT

It's so confusing reading this site. Wasn't it just last Friday that First Read quoted the eminent political consulting firm Lombardo Consulting Group, LLC who reported this definitive statement:

"The Obama campaign is becoming less and less relevant with each passing day."
Wow. But wait, less than three days later we're told that Obama is LEADING the Iowa likely caucus goers.
It's a waste of time reading sites like this when they are breathlessly quoting political gurus who don't know their *** for a hole in the ground.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Pat Russo — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:38:54 GMT

(((I will vote for my party,whomever wins the primary-----to vote for any of the Bush party I would consider a sin against humanity.I cannot think of one good deed that this bunch has given to this country.)))

What's it like, you know, being totally ignorant, and being a lemming?

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:39:16 GMT

I think I'm bipolar. ****I LOVE BUSH***

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

vanreuter, NY NY — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:40:11 GMT

It's about 80-20 AGAINST here, but this Gallup is interesting;

Gallup: Who likes Hillary Clinton, and who doesn't?

by Mark Silva

Public opinion about Hillary Clinton is split down the middle.

Looking at an aggregate of more than 7,000 interviews in which Americans were asked to evaluate the New York senator and Democratic candidate for president between June and September, the people at the Gallup Poll found a 48-48 split in viewpoints.

That’s 48 percent favorable, 48 percent unfavorable

That was no surprise. The question was, who is most likely to have a favorable opinion of Clinton, and who is least likely to have a favorable opinion?
The party's front-running candidate for the White House in 2008 fares better among women than men, better in the East than in the rest of the nation, better among the lower-income than among the higher-income. Better among the youngest and among the oldest.

The survey found that African-Americas are most likely to favor Clinton: 84 percent. No surprise there: Black voters tend to support Democrats by about that margin. The survey found that 81 percent of Democrats favor Clinton, ‘nuff said.

But the numbers start to get more interesting, the further down the list of subgroups Gallup goes: 72 percent of conservative Democrats favor the senator, as well as 71 percent of moderate Democrats.

Among those making less than $20,000 a year, 60 percent have a favorable view. Among $20,000 to $29,000 bracket, it’s 55 percent."

http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/news/politics/blog/2007/10/gallup_who_likes_hillary_clint.html

Disclaimer:
(You can read the entire entry by following the link. I am trying to balance my posts between those who complain that they are too long when they are complete, and those who complain that I am, "distorting the facts", when I leave the reader to their own devices.)

Van

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

J Lyon Silverdale, WA — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:42:46 GMT

You guys don't get it...the Clinton's have enough power to have HRC become the nominee whether America wants her or not...just watch. Now if that ain't scary, wait til she's president. Everything put before us will be unethically passed if she wants it. Why? Because her and her husband (as shown in his presidency) have no ethics. Watch out! Big Brother, er Sister is coming!!!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

j Lyon Silverdale, WA — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:45:04 GMT

Dear Z, we know that already. Don't be a whiney dem who can only complain and can't have a plan or vision. It's becoming old. Get over it and say something intelligent!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Sierra, SF — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:46:53 GMT

Sara, Cedar Rapids, Iowa:

Thanks for the info !!
We can all be sure that the national polls will change dramatically after Hillary loses in Iowa.
Right now, national polls are just about name recognition/infamy. ;-)

You'd previously noted that Hillary is afraid to take direct, unfiltered questions from voters.
That can't help but be noticed by caucus goers.
It can't help make voters wonder if she's pre-programmed.
The tactic is similar to the Bush SOP.
A programmed candidate who knows little or nothing.
It's a sign of weakness, because her campaign is afraid of her speaking off the cuff.
Let's hope Iowa caucus goers notice

Sara, WE CAN WIN !!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

John, Raleigh, NC — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:47:16 GMT

NEWSWEAK's POLL HAS A 7% MARGIN OF ERROR ON LIKELY DEMS.

My kingdom for a journalist who actually took a political science course.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:52:40 GMT

LARRY CRAIG CONTINUES TO SUCK. AND BUSH SUCKS TOO.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Joe, Crystal, MN — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:54:00 GMT

Ok, I've had it. Same ole garbage. Time for a 3rd Party. Minnesota has a good 3rd Party and if people would give them a call they would see they are interested in getting things done and not just sit and talk about it. Like this smoking ban. There were other things that needed taking care of but the State tought it more important to get that ban pushed through over school, roads, police and health care.
The Independence Party is a party that will do what is needed over talking about it. This could be done Nationally as well. Maybe shake up what is going on now and have the People listened to over big business.
What do you say? Email me!!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Rick, WS, NC — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:56:55 GMT

I'll bet there are some great photos somewhere of larry craig and some of the family values crowd...perhaps a video of him and vitter talking about their personal family values...when are the reps going to start talking about their coterie of liars and deniers anyway? none of them intends to vote for billary or osama anyway...

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Molly, Iowa City — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:57:43 GMT

Dickie Flatts, Charlotte, NC writes:

"Re: The Clinton Electability Issue
The media loves the narrative and her desperate opponents are playing to it with their unattributed comments.
The fact is the numbers are the numbers. Clinton head to head against the GOP front runners leads them in all the blue states. She leads them in purple states like ... Iowa. ignore the off the record B.S. from campaigns that are going nowhere."

Dickie I really wish you knew what you were talking about, I would sleep a lot better at night if I believed, or could convince myself that Clinton could win the general election. She might win it, but the idea she will do so easily, is not reality based. The idea that electability is not a real concern is not reality based. I live in reality, hence the sleep issues! Take a look at the poll numbers (not the meaningless candidate preference) 94% of randomly selected registered democrats in Iowa said they would vote for a women if she were the parties nominee. 6% registered democrats would not vote for Clinton if she's the nominee, that alone is a problem. But that isn't the number you look at, because poll participants will normally not want to reveal any bias. When asked if they think the country is ready for a women President the # drops to 63%. 22% felt the country wasn't ready, and 15% didn't know. 3% more of Iowa Democrats believe the country is ready for an African American President than a women, and only 18% (versus 22% with Clinton) felt the country is not ready for an African American. Those numbers alone reveal a lot. Interestingly less than half the Democrats (42%) believed the country was ready for a Hispanic President 14% didn't know and 44% believed the country wasn't ready!

Poll match ups between Hillary and any GOP candidate right now are meaningless. I have no clue regarding the other purple states, but unfortunately Hillary can not win the general election in Iowa. And if the poll is accurate regarding general election Democratic voters neither could Richardson. All other candidates (other than Gravel and Kucinich) would be favored in Iowa, and would need to lose Iowa not to carry it.

Hillary's inability to carry Iowa ( a state Gore carried) doesn't only relate to her very real electability issues nation wide in a general, but unfortunately no women has won a federal race (or the Governors race) in Iowa, no matter how superior they were to their opponent. Jim Nussle was so convinced Iowa wouldn't elect a women to congress that in 1996 during the summer, while running for re-election he filed for divorce from his high school sweetheart. This would normally be bad enough (especially given the high number of Democrats and Catholics in the district) but they had two young children Mark who was 5 and Sarah who was 7 and has downs syndrome. If a GOP candidate (who always ran as the family values guy) feels free enough to file for divorce in the months prior to the election in a heavily Catholic Democratic district that speaks to the difficulty a women would face in Iowa. It's sad, and hopefully will someday change, but it won't be in 08.

Also Edwards campaign isn't pushing it, and it isn't a figment of the media's imagination, it is reality. She might be able to win, but if you don't believe she has an electability problem you just don't know what you are talking about. Why else does the GOP want her to be the nominee? The GOP are a lot of things, but politically stupid isn't one of them. They want Hillary, because they believe she is the one they could beat.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Paw Paw, NC — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:03:52 GMT

The first real stink came when Carl Rove endorsed Hillary as the dominate choice and when I heard Bill Krystal and Britt Hume on Fox basically endorse Hillary Clinton this past weekend as the most prominate candidate the odor really kicked up. Basically Hillary Clinton has already been selected by big business (The Republican Party) and the wellfare state (The Democratic Party)and like it or not she is going to be the next President. Some say the Republicans are pushing her because they can beat her in the general election, Bull sH--! She has been chosen by both parties to carry on "The Iraqi Conflict" with a trade off on social programs and massive tax increases. The Dogs of War have also already decided on attacking Iran, it's just a matter of when, before or after Christmas. Once this is done and they don't need Congress's approval since they will be attacking terrorist to continue Bush's "War on Terror", the United States will be so deeply rooted in Middle Eastern conflicts it will take us 20 to 30 years to even begin to see the light of day, if they don't destroy us and our nation first.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Paw Paw, NC — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:04:38 GMT

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Justin, Manassas, VA — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:07:33 GMT

very insightful comment from Sara of Cedar Rapids Iowa.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Susan, Miami — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:09:19 GMT

Here we go again with Mr Sierra and his obsessive and repetetive, same old hateful statements about the Clintons,over and over until one wants to puke. And again, I say to you that Hillary and many others voted for this phoney war that Bush and Cheney cooked up. She admitted that if she had to do it all over again, she would have voted against it and it STILL would have occured with or without her vote. Sierra,perhaps you are not a democrat- and pretending to be is disengenuous to say the least. It might be nice if Mr. Sierra admitted the REAL reason he hates the Clintons so much.. or is it Hillary(woman) being in charge that brings out all your male insecurities. Your venom against her seems over the top. True democrats know she is quite left of center in reality. What are your issues? Jerry... is that you?

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

JJ, Movin' Uptown — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:14:54 GMT

"Dear Z, we know that already. Don't be a whiney dem who can only complain and can't have a plan or vision. It's becoming old. Get over it and say something intelligent! "

A very bizarre statement coming from the Gay Old Party. How about "Mission Accomplished"? Or "they'll greet us as liberators"? They were very positive statements. Make things better for you, little pookie?

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

ErinM, Ft. Lee, NJ — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:21:49 GMT

It's not just the "big three" anymore. Biden's been gaining steam and his campaign is neck and neck with Clinton & Edwards, especially in Iowa.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

bb — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:25:03 GMT

Pat Russo, you must be kidding. Don't look down because you just followed your delusional leader off a cliff. BBBOOOOMMM!!!!!!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Satan — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:31:26 GMT

Larry Craig - poster boy for the "no shame, no responsibility " party. "Do as I say, not as I do."

In conjuction with the most addled and corrupt president in history, proving that God has no interest in American politics or the right wing would get boils in places to make gay sex impossible.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

HOT DAM — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:32:05 GMT

Z I agree Bush sucks big time, Cheney sucks big time.
All the repukes suck big time.
Keep on posting Z..I like your zinger, makes me smile!
Everyone who KNOWS bush sucks say so NOW!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Blue state baby — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:41:03 GMT

BUSH SUCKS

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Al, KS — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:41:25 GMT

The early primaries/caucuses in IA and NH are a real problem for Obama. College students will not be back in time to vote. Watch the HRC campaign really latch on to this and promote the early January dates...it gives her a bigger edge. I would like to see some polling results for college students...will they vote, vote absentee...who will they vote for?

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

vanreuter, NY NY — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:43:24 GMT

Daily Presidential Tracking Poll
Monday, October 01, 2007

In the race for the Democratic Presidential Nomination. Hillary Clinton attracts 44% support followed by Barack Obama at 22% John Edwards is at 15%. No other candidate attracts more than 2% support from Likely Democratic Primary Voters (see recent daily numbers). Clinton also enjoys a double-digit lead for the first time in South Carolina."

http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/daily_presidential_tracking_poll__1

Disclaimer:
(You can read the entire entry by following the link. I am trying to balance my posts between those who complain that they are too long when they are complete, and those who complain that I am, "distorting the facts", when I leave the reader to their own devices.)

Van

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Jeff, St. George, Utah — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:45:55 GMT

Nice hit piece on the republicans......oh is this msnbc, i guess that would explain why, you don't know what it means to be fair and balanced. Is it any wonder that your rating suck!!!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Blue state baby — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:46:40 GMT

I think maybe a lot of us was for this war in the very beginning when secrets were kept and we were lied to by this bush/cheney war machine, so I don't blame Hillary.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

greg coltrane — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:50:12 GMT

i love hillary clinton ,, she is a true american . we need her more than ever. i am proud of hillary and all her belives. we will a great nation again when she is president . does not obama sound like a terriost. think about it

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Sierra, SF — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:55:37 GMT

Molly, Iowa City: '.... When asked if they think the country is ready for a women President...'

Sorry, Molly, Iowa City, the question ISN'T A WOMAN PRESIDENT !!
The question is: Do we want the SCANDALS ??
Do we want the DISHONESTY ?
Do we want the DIVISIVENSSS ?

Hillary voted for WAR AGAINST IRAQ !
Hillary supported WAR AGAINT IRAQ !
Hillary just voted for WAR AGAINST IRAN !!
(see Lieberman-Kyl)

Sorry Molly, I don't want a corrupt incompetent crook !
I don't want Republican-lite !!

TURN THE PAGE

Hillary Clinton, 15 years of dishonesty, scandals and divisiveness

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Dickie Flatts, Charlotte, NC — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 17:05:57 GMT

Molly,

There are always people who won't vote for you. Here in North Carolina we have registered Democrats who haven't vote for a Democratic Presidential candidate in 40 years.

Big deal.

Again the numbers are the numbers. They are rooted in scientific polling.

The Republican candidate will have his problems too. Some Republicans will bolt over the war. Some evangelicals will bolt over abortion.

At the end of the day there are about 42% of Americans that won't vote for a Republican, and 42% that won't vote for a Democrat.

But the numbers are still the numbers.

Poll after poll shows Clinton taking it to Giuliani red and purple states. Thompson and Romney evern fair worse.

Get some sleep Molly. President Hillary Clinton will reside in the White House in Jan. '09.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Sierra, SF — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 17:15:50 GMT

Susan, Miami: '...statements about the Clintons,over and over until one wants to puke....'

You don't like to be reminded, do you ?

'...And again, I say to you that Hillary and many others voted for this phoney war that Bush and Cheney cooked up. She admitted that if she had to do it all over again, she would have voted against it and it STILL would have occured with or without her vote....'

LIAR !!
She's NEVER ADMITTED SHE WAS WRONG !!

'...Sierra,perhaps you are not a democrat- and pretending to be is disengenuous to say the least. It might be nice if Mr. Sierra admitted the REAL reason he hates the Clintons so much.. or is it Hillary(woman) being in charge that brings out all your male insecurities. Your venom against her seems over the top....'

If you can't win the argument.....
Attack the messenger !!!
So transparent....
Did you read the cited Richard Gizbert ?

'... I understand why Ms. Clinton has decided not to come clean on why she voted for the war, and why she feels she can't apologize.

To disclose the former would reveal the kind of
political calculation she'd rather not be known for,
but is. And when candidates apologize, that can be
seen as a sign of "weakness."

But I would hope that some of her fans could be honest enough to say what really happened in the Iraq vote. And why they still support her, despite hating the war....'

What he's saying is that Hillary pandered and sent us to war to further her own political career.
You can't admit that, Susan.
You can't admit that Hillary is an opportunist.

Sorry, Susan, Miami,
but she DID IT AGAIN !!!
Hillary voted for WAR AGAINST IRAN !!
See Lieberman-Kyl
Try explaining that one away, honey !!

Hillary Clinton, 15 years of dishonesty, scandals and divisiveness

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

jerry/corpus christi texas — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 17:52:41 GMT

Well Susan:

maybe if she answered the questions instead of hiding behind her husband and stop acting like a gutless Blonde, maybe we can find out more about her.

What is in those warehouses in Little Rock that she doesn't want anybody to see until after November 2008?

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Elrod Hubbart, Akron Ohio — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:00:22 GMT

Dow exceeds 14000!! Thank you President Bush and VP Cheney for the great economy!!!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Blue state baby — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:03:00 GMT

Well Susan we know that Jerry hates women, looks like he hates blonde's the most.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Molly, Iowa City — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:06:16 GMT

Dickie Flatts, Charlotte, NC "Again the numbers are the numbers. They are rooted in scientific polling."

Actually Dickie, they aren't rooted in "scientific polling" if you are referring to the numbers that show candidate preference at a Iowa caucus. As an earlier post explained, the polling sample isn't limited to known caucus goers, which makes the polling data regarding candidate preference statistically invalid. It also explains why the margin of error with likely caucus goers is admitted to be 7%. A very high number. But the polling numbers regarding whether the democrats polled think the country is ready for a women (African American or Hispanic) President, reflect concern among Iowa Democrats that the country isn't ready.

I'll vote for Hillary if she's the nominee, and most Democrats will, but the election will be decided by non-partisan voters, and if you believe Hillary is going to be President, and can not even open your mind to the possibility, that right or wrong (mostly wrong) that Hillary is not liked by an extremely large number of people, and that elections are won with turn out, and Hillary will turn out voters for the GOP in higher numbers than any of the GOP candidates. Then I suggest again you are not living in reality. Hillary could win, I'm not saying it is impossible, and if she is the nominee I pray she defies the odds, but there is a reason the GOP wants her to be the nominee, and it isn't because they think she'll be good for business, is the most conservative Democratic choice (which are both true), it is because right or wrong they believe to the core of their being that they can beat her.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Martin Schmidth — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:14:43 GMT

HD : Z I agree Bush sucks big time, Cheney sucks big time. All the repukes suck big time.

And yet, they've beat the day-lights out the Democrats the last two presidental elections, and will do so again next year.

Oh,

******* DEMOCRATS SUCK ******
******* HILLARY SUCKS ******
******* EDWARDS SUCKS ******
******* OBAMA SUCKS *******

Sometimes you just have to get down to their (2nd grader) level. It's the only thing they seem to understand.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

jeffy, Family Circus, USA — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:35:46 GMT

"you don't know what it means to be fair and balance"

Isn't that precious? The little neocon has learned to parrot his first words - the stinking right wing lie that FOX SPEWS is actually "fair and balanced."

"Unfair" typically means anything that casts the neocon pedophiles and war criminals in a bad light. It's so gosh darned unfair, MSNBC! Quit picking on that earth-scum and human stains, and tell us all the GOOD things the GOP is doing (for themselves).

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

********You suck********** — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:38:09 GMT

"And yet, they've beat the day-lights out the Democrats the last two presidental elections, and will do so again next year."

Two corrupt Sec. of State and the Diebold beat the daylights out of the democrats - you stinking liars and cheaters have never had the guts for a fair fight. That's why you're all a bunch of stinking chicken hawks who laugh at right wing voter fraud.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:42:13 GMT

**** News alert.... Bush still sucks. Ha...Ha !!!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Bush sucks, oh yeah ! — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:45:05 GMT

Ok, all Republicans ,including George W. Bush "suck". Awaiting your stupid reply. Thank you !

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mark Thieme — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:46:54 GMT

I discern assorted differences of opinion on this board.

Also there is, to my olfactory sensibility, the distinct fragrance of strong feeling amongst the various posts.

God, I love the smell of democracy in the morning!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Bush Sucks — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:50:18 GMT

Molly they have no core in their being!
If you are a Dem than how the hell do you know what the repukes want or think. Even they do not know!
Let Iowa go what ever the hell way it wants, get out of the WAY! Vote for Hillary when the time comes and shut up already!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:50:51 GMT

Come on everyone join in, "BUSH SUCKS".Pssssss pass it on Bush Sucks big time ! Ha ! Ha !

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

John B, Des Moines, IA — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:59:02 GMT

Elrod, Dow 14,000 is still lower after inflation than it was before Bush took office. Home values are down substantially from a year ago with the bottom of the housing bubble expected to be months in the future. Unemployment remains stuck where it has been for a year, with the economy continuing to barely generate enough new jobs to offset increasing population. The poverty rate has increased every year of the Bush administration except one. Thank you President Bush and VP Cheney for the great economy!!!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:07:18 GMT

ALL THOSE IN FAVOR OF "IMPEACHMENT" FOR OUR COMMANDER AND CHIEF, PLEASE SPEAK UP. AND REMEMBER HE "BETRAYED" US AND HE SUCKS !

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:11:11 GMT

GONZO -GATE IT JUST WILL NOT GO AWAY. WHERE IS KARL AND GONZO ? OH THERE TALKING TO THE PRESIDENT THAT SUCKS.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Period — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:18:54 GMT

Focus

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mark Thieme — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:27:24 GMT

Ah, yes. I am reminded once again that if one wishes to enter into informed and thoughtful discussion of res publica, this would be among the first stops along the path of the democratic ideal. Right here.

The use of language the level of discourse, the provocative and refreshing humor... all right here.

Aristotle said it best, "The republic is only as sure as its people are wise."

One gets the sense he would feel right at home here.

Or not.

Folks: sorry this is not "free speech."
It is logorrhea.

Know, and practice, the difference.

Otherwise, we may indeed get the government we deserve.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

squintz, philly, pa — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:30:31 GMT

Gloat? That's almost as unbiased as calling his Campaign Manager "snarky" in your other post today. That Obama really burns your britches, eh? Try to hold back, you'll have plenty of time to bitch and moan once he's President.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Roge Parker, Scottsdale AZ — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:31:13 GMT

Grow up John B. The economy is booming. Addddmiittt it you Lefty Loser!! Admit that you can't stand that Bush rebuilt the economy from both a recession and an attack on the US!! Go ahead, it will make you feel better. But, even if you don't admit it, nobody really cares what you think.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

squintz, philly, pa — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:35:17 GMT

Ha ha, Bob, I couldn't agree more. PerezHilton.com has more consistent coverage!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:50:57 GMT

As I've said before I'll probably sit out the general election if Hillary (Eva Peron - $5000 to each newborn) receives the coronation. The Republicans love her because not only is she their best chance to hold on to the White House but even if she wins, her negative coat-tails will return the Congress to the Republicans. Not only that but her ties to Corporate America make her the one Democrat most likely to protect Republican interests.

And as one of those who still regard the concept of the principled candidate as paramount in making my choice, I will never forgive her for exercising horrendous judgment in voting to authorize the use of force in Iraq (or was this just triangulation, a disingenuous means to position herself as a pro-military candidate for a future run for the presidency). And then to add insult to injury, she votes against the Levin oversight amendment which put the entire decision making process of going to war, in the hands of an incompetent president (and went against the grain and intent of the Constitution). But the coup de grace, the ultimate irony, is that after five years, after claiming that she didn't believe that this deceitful administratrion would use the war resolution to actually go to war (when 80% of Americans at that time knew that we were going to war), after refusing to admit that she made a mistake in voting for the resolution because she she claims that she did so with the information available at the time (of course she didn't read the NIE, before the vote, that cast great doubt on the presence of WMD in Iraq), she then votes for the Lieberman (Alzheimer's victim)/Kyl resolution that recognizes the Iranian Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization. Well that's like giving a bottle of Jim Beam to your alcoholic uncle (any similarities to reality are purely co-incidental) in that she risks that this president will use this resolution as de facto permission for war against Iran. Has she not learned about the workings of the mind (or lack thereof) of this president? Is this some kind of a joke? Did someone write this scenario for a screenplay, a political farce about the demise of a great nation? This can't be the valued experience to which her husband refers. Of course not! No, I go with good judgement. I'll go with the candidate who predicted the idiocy of this Iraqi incursion from the start. I'll go with the candidate who wants to distance himself from the corporate special interests. I'm for the candidate who can inspire Americans to do more by the excitement he generates. I'm for the consensus builder. I'm for the truly relevent candidate.
Obama '08

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

REG; East Valley Phx. AZ — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:52:24 GMT

I won't presume to tell others who to vote for as I sincerely believe that we will end up with the best for everyone only if everyone truly decides for themselves, only if each voter is disciplined to objectively resist being manipulated. I do have reservations about several in seeing personalities that make me question their focus, loyalty and ability. I will share those now just to provoke your thinking.
Fred Thompson's professional and political history clearly indicates an individual well qualified to be the next 'puppet' - one who readily takes direction, follows a script, subordinates himself and takes what he can get in the process while with few convictions of his own. Rudy Guiliani is another ideal 'puppet' seeking to please and get the backing of those who now strongly support Bush. If you want more of the same, either could be a good choice. Then there is Hillary Clinton who also demonstrates a sociopathic personality much like the one we have in office now but only with less likelihood of being controlled by others.

There are many who have supported George W. Bush because they felt convinced he shared their concerns: Republicans, conservatives, Christians, hawks, immigrants and others with individual biases that he appealed to. It should now be obvious to everyone that, while they were encouraged to have that confidence, the results simply tell a different story. With the sociopathic personality (without conscience, experiencing no guilt, self-indulgent, able to say/do/fake anything without hesitation, gross dishonesty,,) of the Bush administration they have consistently demonstrated a focus on a private agenda to benefit Special Interests and a select few who return financial support and active backing while the majority is given only apathy, the costs, the problems and an abundance of subterfuge. The proof is simply evident in who always benefits, who pays and the never ending, always adjusting, deceptive rhetoric arrogantly offered to distract, disguise and excuse. And those influential and powerful few, the ‘Special Interests and select few’ who greatly benefit from most every position the Bush administration takes, they actively provide overt and covert backing, including aggressive efforts using their substantial resources to manipulate public opinion.
To avoid ‘more of the same’, which I see as what America desperately needs, the American voter now needs to not allow the calculated appeal to their individual biases to once again manipulate them and instead to clearly think, to see the total picture, and decide for themselves without being led by deceptive rhetoric or by someone else. Then hopefully we will end up with an administration, Republican or Democrat, that will fairly and responsibly represent all of us and not just another 'puppet' to do a few's bidding.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

jerry/corpus christi texas — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:56:11 GMT

I don't see how anybody is not making money in Iowa, with all that corn being used for food and fuel....

either you have to be incurably stupid or a bad farmer.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Bush — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 20:01:05 GMT

I'am Bush and I suck !

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Jane, Southern Mississippi — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 20:31:41 GMT

Vote for Ron Paul.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mark Thieme — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 20:33:03 GMT

Mitchell and REG:

You folks remind me of the early days on First Read when most posts were well crafted and thought provoking.

When I check in on this board once or twice a day I skim the postings for one of yours (as well as a few others).

Today was particularly depressing. It does make one understand why we get the government we deserve.

Sadly, my experience reading solid postings like yours today is that most don't read them, or if they do they remain silent observers. Would that more had the courage to brave these acid waters and speak their mind with clarity and humility.

It seems that insults and the word "sucks" is the graffiti that fills the void most days.

This place is a fabulous opportunity for real discourse and it happens from time to time. It is free speech when it rings of liberty founded on reason. All too much of what passes for"debate" on First Read of late merely accedes to the darkness.

Thanks for using your freedom to speak in a way which, by its civility and clarity, pays respect to the right that has been given.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Mitchell Feldman — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 20:51:26 GMT

Reg; East Valley Phx. AZ: Thoughtful and well written piece. But being that we are not voting for Jesus who do you think comes closest to your ideal. No joke, I sincerely and with all due respect want to know your opinion because what you describe is what true (non-demogogic) leadership is all about.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 20:57:31 GMT

Mark:

Is that really democracy you smell? It could almost be mistaken for napalm. Or maybe that's just my brain cells firing up from the fascinating discourse I have seen in the last hour.

The sad thing is that you are right - we get the government "we" deserve. Unfortunately, the we is not made up of informed people who care about the issues, who follow the candidates, and who try their best to make the right decision on election day. It's more commonly made up of people who catch a sound bite here and there, or people who are voting the way their parents always voted. I know someone in that latter group, and I don't fight her on it - she thinks she is a Democrat but everything flowing from her mouth is pure GOP.

Ah, well. Such is the dilemma of democracy, I suppose.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Molly, Iowa City — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 21:08:12 GMT

Bush Sucks states: "Molly they have no core in their being!If you are a Dem than how the hell do you know what the repukes want or think. Even they do not know!Let Iowa go what ever the hell way it wants, get out of the WAY! Vote for Hillary when the time comes and shut up already!"

1. I assure you I am very much a Democrat.
2. What kind of life do you live in where all Republican's are Repukes? And a person who has friends, co-workers and in my case (God forbid) a couple in-laws who are Republicans, must not be a true Democrat. By your standard Maria Schriver isn't a true Democrat, because she feel in love with a Republican. I'm sure her Uncle Ted Kennedy would disagree.
3. I don't ask what political party a person I work with, go to church with, serve on a board with, or meet socially belongs to before I decide whether I will develop any relationship. And when I learn that someone I have developed a friendship with is a republican I don't end the friendship.
4. I have friends that actually think Rush and Hannity aren't idiots. Sometimes we argue politically, other times we just shake our heads and agree to disagree.
5. A partner of mine was a Democrat for years, and became a Republican during the Clinton administration. I don't respect his political judgment, and I'd be lying if I claimed that our friendship was as strong as it was when we shared the same politics, but I'm not going to abandon a guy who in all other respects is a great friend, because he has gone to the dark side politically.
6. You are extremely judgmental, which is actually a fairly common GOP trait, but I won't question your loyalty to the Democratic party.
7. You don't represent Hillary very well. My guess is that you can't actually provide specifics regarding why anyone should support Hillary (i.e. any legislation she had actually sponsored that became law, etc)so you need to resort to telling people to shut up.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Elizabeth Sullivan, San Diego, CA — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 21:09:41 GMT

Sara:

I find your posts well informed and quite timely. The only issue I would bring up to you is the fact that it seems to take alot of time on your part to defend Hillary. The old remake/re-do/clarify/muddy the issue.

A good candidate shouldn't need that much micromanaging. To have, as the basic tenet of your campaign, a strategy to not reveal the true nature of your candidate's thoughts, experience, or successes.

Where are Hillary's accomplishments? I'd like to hear about those.

You see, I do not think your candidate is, as she claims to be, the most qualified for the position. But, instead of highlighting any legislation which she wrote and was able to get Senate approval on, we hear all the reasons she should be elected that have nothing to do with competence or success. She has a record. Let's look at it.

Until I can see a tangible result from her efforts, that isn't directly linked to Bill's record, I cannot vote for her.

The Clintons are trying to shove their way into the White House. This Democrat finds that unacceptable.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Elizabeth Sullivan, San Diego, CA — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 21:13:09 GMT

BIDEN/OBAMA 08

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Sara, Cedar Rapids, Iowa — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 21:20:49 GMT

Al, KS states "The early primaries/caucuses in IA and NH are a real problem for Obama. College students will not be back in time to vote. Watch the HRC campaign really latch on to this and promote the early January dates...it gives her a bigger edge. I would like to see some polling results for college students...will they vote, vote absentee...who will they vote for?"

AL, KS you can't vote absentee at a caucus, but I assume in NH it is as easy to vote absentee as it is in Iowa during elections. You are making a lot of assumptions regarding the source of Obama's support. He has a lot of youth support, but plenty of AARP members support as well. HRC also has a fair amount of support among college students. You are also assuming that a the bulk of Obama's college student supporters live out of the state they attend school. The majority of students enrolled in Iowa's three 4 year state Universities, and numerous community (Jr.) colleges are in-state residents. While they have a respectable number of out of state students, most students are in-state residents. Has it occurred to you that a motivated college student (any one who attends a caucus whether a college student, or post college, high school drop out, etc. has to be motivated, because caucuses are a pain in the rear)at home during semester break might not only attend the caucus in their home town in as large of numbers as they would if they were at school, but they might increase the numbers by convincing their friends, siblings and parents to go with them.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

REG; East Valley Phx. AZ — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 21:46:37 GMT

Mitchell Feldman: Sincerely I have not made a decision yet and I do strongly feel everyone should make their own. I do have reservations which I have expressed but the real fear I have is that once again people will fail to be objective and look beyond the considerable efforts aimed to use their individual biases to manipulate them and we will then again end up with 'more of the same'. There are some powerful, resourceful and persuasive people out there that will stop at nothing to get their way, to continue the preferred treatment they are getting. The challenge is to see through the subterfuge, to see the total picture and not to be led by those who have their own interests at heart. We all need to vote our conscience but without someone else telling us what that should be. Here's hoping!

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

John B, Des Moines, IA — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 22:00:26 GMT

Roge Parker, I have no time to call you names. I'm too busy trying to build a company in a transportation sector that's been in decline for over a year. I'd be thrilled if the economy really were strong. The facts don't support it. Keep dreaming.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

Ron Jeffers — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 22:30:08 GMT

History has taught us that pre-primary polls mean little when it comes to who actually wins the nomination. We will likely be in for some surprises when votes actually start to get cast in January.

First thoughts: 95 days and counting...

WILLIAM V., Long Island, NY — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 13:35:36 GMT

It's pathetic how the liberal sheeple are so brainwashed that President Bush is so bad and horrible, no matter what his accomplishments are. People have blogs and websites devoted to how "bad" the US economy is, yet, Bush dragged us out of a recession that began at the end of Clintons term, and that's also DESPITE the tragedy of 9-11, and the DOW has hit ALL TIME RECORD HEIGHTS over the last year. How is that so bad?
People need to wake up and look at the good job that he is doing for this country, and the fact that NO terror attack has landed on American soil since he took proper offensive. Notice also how the death toll in Iraq has declined. The war against terrorism is one to be WON, not one that we can afford to retreat against.
HILLARY Clinton is literal SUICIDE for this country. We will be back to the days of bomb shelters and air raid siren training for grade schoolers if she gets elected.
Gladly we can all look forward to President Giuliani in 2008 to straighten this country up and unite us like we need to be united.