Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Ava — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 20:25:01 GMT

I can pull up several articles from the last year in which Obama has asked supporters to give monetary support to him directly, rather than through an unregulated 527 or similar groups not affiliated with his campaign. He immediately stepped up on that. It’s clear that Edwards didn’t say anything about this 527 until Obama outed him. Another key difference is that the 527s interested in supporting Obama ARE NOT run by Obama operatives. How can Edwards’ supporters skate over the fact that people who worked for Edwards just this past spring have started up a 527 that’s spending nearly $1 MILLION on ads FOR EDWARDS in Iowa alone, meanwhile Edwards (who claims to be so against 527s) says nothing about it? He preaches against 527s, unless they’re spending money for him. It seems that Edwards saw early on that he was going to have trouble raising enough money to compete with Clinton and Obama, so they hatched this 527 plan to get more money for his campaign through the back door, while he publicly denounced these groups.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Travis, Louisville, Ky. — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 20:25:32 GMT

Is there anything Obama and his friends don't cry about?

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Ken Collins/Wagoner,Oklahoma — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 20:28:46 GMT

Honest and up front is what I am seeing in Sen. Obama, the liars are beginng to show themselves for what they really are HELLO HILLARY !!!!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

POLpursun — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 21:10:39 GMT

Edwards, "sensibilities", as expressed, have definite merit for the admirable construct/goal of a more perfect union. Nevertheless, there IS an element of having your cake and eating it too regarding these 527's. Indeed, one would think that, given the reported relationship(s), past and/or present, of the person running the 527 backed by the SIEU to Edwards, that said person would not want to expose him(Edwards) to what is unhelpful, valid criticism. If this is not so, even after Edwards has expressed HIS preference, then the following point of Obama, apparently in answer to a question re Edward's ability, even as potus, to achieve the admirable but very difficult goals about which he is so passionate, is very valid as to desirable influence on process.

Here is the referenced point: If you can't get your former campaign manager and political director to do what you like, then it's going to be hard to get the insurance companies and the drug companies to do what you like."

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Tuck,Realityville, Ks — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 21:22:19 GMT

Obama is going NEGATIVE again..
he's a nasty little man

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Bob, Columbus, Ohio — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 22:05:00 GMT

Obama is in the pocket of the credit card lobby. Obama has remedial math issues and is not familiar with the greater than/ lesser than concepts, at least when it comes to counting advisers. Now he pushes his misinformation off on an article in the NYTimes... he doesn't know who advises him? Maybe that is because he is told how to vote? The insinuation that some kind of calling to a round table to confer and discuss, with corporate interests, a reconcilliation of the current abysmal state of democracy in this country calls into question the seriousness of this man. Osama... er... Obama. I mean it would be ludicrous to think that the Republicans would be supporting this guy's candidacy when clearly he has working class values and just wants to sit down with the monied interests so he can help them negotiate away their power. I must have missed his proposals to sit down with the people who favored a 30% interest cap on credit card rates... or maybe not... I mean the guy clearly gets a bad rap, some people have even called his religion into question just because he studied for 5 years at a Madrasa in Indonesia, I mean what possible effect could that have had on him? I am sure these minor issues... Osama... Muslim... don't excite the very people that he claims to want to sit down with. Get real... Get a life... sell the lie to someone else this year. I voted for Kerry and he didn't fight even though the election was clearly stolen in Ohio and Obama is more of the same. If he is the nominee I am voting for Nader this time like I should have done last time.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Daniel (Lafayette, CA) — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 22:24:23 GMT

You have to wonder if the SEIU had endorsed Obama if he would have complained about them campaigning for him....seriously, does anyone HONESTLY believe if they were stumping for him he would complain?

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Prince. Arcadia California — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 22:51:08 GMT

I think Obama insistence on remaining on the issues is a legitimate course and if Edward cant stop the 527 ad, who are his friends, how can he stand up to the powerful insurance and lobby groups. Let us remain on the issue than name calling

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

kelly, NYC — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 22:54:29 GMT

NO more Clinton dynasty and corrupted Health Industry.

!!! VOTE FOR BARACK OBAMA !!!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

VOTERONPAUL — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 23:05:07 GMT

Obama is a liar, when he was senator the first two things he did was vote on a bill making it impossible for average citizens to sue big corporations for fruad

And he's a liar for taking money from lobbyists and corporations while denying it.

"The junior Senator from Illinois denounces the corrosive influence of private political cash on U.S. democracy while cozying up to Chicago's notoriously corrupt Big Money Mayor Richard M. Daley (with whom he shares the same high-priced campaign consultant (David Axlerod) and raking in campaign largesse from wealthy world-capitalist interests. His top career sponsors include Goldman Sachs, Exelon (the world's leading nuclear plant operator), the Soros Fund Management, J.P Morgan Chase & Co., leading corporate law and lobbying firms (Kirkland & Ellis and Skadden, Arps, Sidley Austin LLP and others), top Chicago investment interests (including Henry Crown & Co and Aerial Capital Management) and the like.

Obama's reliance on such deep-pockets supporters helps explain why he voted for a business-driven "tort reform" bill that rolled back working peoples' ability to obtain reasonable redress and compensation from misbehaving corporations. It is certainly part of why he opposed an amendment to the Bankruptcy Act that would have capped credit card interest rates at 30 percent. It is undoubtedly related to his vote against a bill that would have killed an amendment to the 2005 energy bill that Taxpayers for Common Sense and Citizens Against Government Waste called "one of the worst provisions in this massive piece of legislation." Under the amendment, which passed with Obama's help, U.S. taxpayers are providing millions of dollars in loan guarantees to power plant operators. They "risk losing billions of dollars if the companies default," as Ken Silverstein wrote in the November, 2006 issue of Harper's Magazine ("Barack Obama Inc.: The Birth of a Washington Machine").

Special interest influence is certainly behind Obama's constant plugging of federally subsidized ethanol ("E-85") as an environmentally friendly "alternative fuel." Reliance on corporate cash and power is also likely related to Obama's opposition to the introduction of single-payer national health insurance on the curious grounds that such a welcome social-democratic change would lead to employment difficulties for workers in the private insurance industry and that "voluntary" solutions are "more consonant" with "the American character" than "government mandates." The latter judgment is advanced despite the fact that a large U.S. majority supports government-mandated universal health insurance.

Obama, it is worth noting, received $708,000 from medical and insurance interests between 2001 and 2006, according to the Center for Responsive Politics. His wife Michelle, a fellow Harvard Law graduate, is a Vice President for Community and External Affairs at the University of Chicago Hospitals, a position that paid her $273, 618 in 2006. For what it's worth, she also received $51,200 for attending a few board meetings of TreeHouse Foods, a giant firm where she was made a director after Obama was elected to the U.S. Senate.

One day after Obama denounced Big Money control of U.S. politics in Iowa City, Iowa, the Los Angeles Times reported that Obama "raised more than $1 million in the first three months of his presidential campaign from law firms and companies that have major lobbying operations in the nation's capital." Obama has also received a combined $170,000 so far this year from financial giants Goldman Sachs and Citigroup, who together spent $4.6 million on federal lobbying in 2006.

"Obama received more than two-thirds (68 percent) of his first quarter 2007 fundraising total ‘from donations of $1000 or more.'"

The Los Angeles Times also reported that Obama received more than two-thirds (68 percent) of his first quarter 2007 fundraising total "from donations of $1000 or more." Obama has "played up populist themes of [campaign finance] reform," trumpeting his "large number of small donations" and claiming (in the Senator's words) to be "launch[ing]a fundraising drive that isn't about dollars.". But his astonishing first-quarter campaign finance haul of $25.7 million included $17.5 million from "big donors" ($1000 and up) - a sum higher than the much more genuinely populist and remarkably pro-labor John Edwards' total take ($14 million) from all donors.

According to Chicago Sun Times columnist Lynn Sweet, "Obama talks about transforming politics and touts the donations of ‘ordinary' people to his campaign, a network of more than 100 elite Democratic ‘bundlers' is raising millions of dollars for his White House bid. The Obama campaign prefers the emphasis be on the army of small donors who are giving - and raising - money for Obama. In truth, though, there are two parallel narratives - and the other is that Obama is also heavily reliant on wealthy and well-connected Democrats."

Two weeks ago, Sweet reported that Obama had received large donations from at least eight executives at Island Def Jam, a hip-hop recording firm that markets rap artists that Obama has accused of "degrading their sisters" with sexist slurs. I assume (incorrectly perhaps) that Simmons was not among the contributors."

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Karon O. Chicago, Illinois — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 23:21:55 GMT

I think John Edwards set the trap, then fell
into it himself! He couldn't raise enough
money so tried to find "another way". It's
crunch time and everybody's supporters are
feeling the desperation. Those laws were put in
place for a reason but some people who may have agreed with them in principle are now frustrated that they cannot use them to their own advantage. A lot of us are sick to death of negative politics and
whoever starts these attacks are just turning people against the candidates they were trying to "help".

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Joe, Des Moines, Iowas — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 00:02:41 GMT

Correct me if I am wrong, but Edwards is not taking lobbyist money, Obama is, and Obama wants to cry about 527's. His lastest bashing of Edwards shows his staff is worried about a Edwards surge.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Sharon Walker, Folsom, CA — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 00:10:26 GMT

Dear Friends:
Senator Obama I respect you for you have acheived.
I wrote the NAACP because like the Senator from New Mexico and Senator Hilary Clinton and Senator Biden and Senators Edwards, Romney, Thompson, and Senator John McCain, I believed the time was here for equal representation for the president of the United States of America. We are proud of each of you. Senator Hilary Clinton as Senator Diane Feinstein, Senator Matsui, Senator Barbara Boxer and each and everyone of you have made a place in history. Hilary as the first woman to be the first lady, a Senator and a presidential candidate.
Proud America is as the world watches and each representation of part of this nation. Senator Romney if you are not a natural born citizen or any others then you cannot take the oath of President of the United States of America per our constitutional requirements.
Senator Obama though I wanted you to have the opportunity you have lost part of my respect. As I told the world African Americans were citizens though slaves in this nation. Their freedom was to vote and to own land and not be part of chatels as women were.
Today in your talk show you disappointed me to no repair. No matter how you see yourself you have failed to give the respect due others in how they saw you. We did not see your color!!! Nor your race!
But you in almost every sentence said how white boys and girls are white. Yes we are but not Boy!!! White boy Whity and all the other remarks have caused me great pain. You are predjidice!!!
And as those who could not see that the literary piece historical for this nation and the world called TO KILL A MOCKING BIRD!!! Was and is a statement of how part of this nation stopped to express and see and examine and feel how our legal system and our society and the society of the world was changing and that courts could give justice and the pains of that decision impacted all of us. The many sensitive who did not understand wanted off the book shelfs and stores and libraries. Part of real history, examination and freedom of speech lost.
God Bless you!! But I do not and cannot support your vote for all Americans. Harvard is a great school but it is not the reason nor assurance to bring to the public a candidate that can love all man kind and woman and their rights.

Senator John McCain you have my vote at this time!!
Guide us through this time down the road of the election. A path that I hope Senators like John Kerry, and those mentioned above and all others and our president bring into alignment the protection of woman, man, and child and the unborn child and the sperm and eggs of us in this nation against the advancements of medical and scientific advancements that are making fake nanotech or biotech or stem cells that can alter and or hurt the natural God given experiences of child birth and the neptual practices and experiences and the unborn child, skin, nerves, brains, heart, organs, and life in the womb.
So precious and as a Doctor you Senator John Kerry and you with all your experience Senator John McCain and you President George W Bush Jr with your love of mankind and belief of protection of the abortionist and cancer rain. Bring out the best legal and safe for today advancements so fast and most often well meaning can hurt including the womb and child. Would mankind have used these things against baby Jesus or an Arab child of the origin or a Jewish child of origin say Abrahams sons. We may not be here today!!! God Bless and bring your children unto the Lord. Courage sometimes calls for us to stand alone and seperate from the rest.

I will have another message on the weather msn comment for Christmas and the Season of love and sharing for all Good will in men and women and for the children. AMEN

For in the manger a child and the Holy spirit yes GOD CAME UNTO AND IN HIM. For those who believe in GOD HE is there for you come unto him. Imagine kings diamonds, stars, gold, Silver, rubies, precious jewels none more precious than a son. GOD WAS THERE AS THE ANGELS SANG GLORIA IN ..... do you see!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Josh Medeiros, Arlingont, Va — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 00:15:06 GMT

Obama of course has his own 527s that he doesnt seem to be talking about.

Like Vote Hope in California. He's asking Edwards to do something he won't do himself.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Sharon Walker, Folsom, CA — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 00:21:34 GMT

Dear Friends:
Hey Obama!
Harvard is collecting brains from nuns for research alzeheimers. Rather wrong to me. Did Harvard put too much into their body and brains and give it to them? Metal in the body does this per MSN. Oh and experience I am telling the world you do not have the right to my brain, thoughts, organs, or faith!!!
Freedom of this nation per the constitution of the United States of America. And no one has the right without my permission to prejarize my writings.
Nor to take apart any of me. Nor my children and family. Obama how about yours is your brain donated to Harvard? Hilary? Hmmm!! I do not blame you, they might get anxious!!!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

lionred — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 00:31:21 GMT

Does anyone know what happened to Obama's campaign of hope? Lately, all he's doing is whining and going negative. Also Obama, seems to have a major problem... he doesn't seem to have any clue as to what he thinks about things. Yesterday, he said emphatically that he wanted to ban all toys from China. Today, he backtracks and says not all toys but only those with a certain percent of lead. Yikes!!! Why doesn't he think before he speaks? Myself, I'm going to be voting for someone with more experience.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Sean, Lexington, Kentucky — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 00:34:24 GMT

Go Obama!

Fired up, ready to go!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Lauril, Cedar Rapids — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 00:35:30 GMT

I think it is pretty obvious that Obama is worried about losing Iowa to Edwards and rightly so...

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Ava — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 01:00:38 GMT

Obama is not "running scared" because of Edwards. I have reviewed the Real Clear Politics Iowa polls going back 2 months and I don't see a John Edwards surge there. In many polls he stayed the same (or roughly the same distance down from the Obama & Clinton), and in others he went down. When Kerry leapt to the front of the pack 4 years ago, you could see the progression in the polls week by week. We're not seeing that with Edwards. Now, it's still too close to call because Obama, Clinton, and Edwards are clustered close enough together in most polls, but I think it's too soon to declare Edwards the winner. He's been campaigning there for 4 YEARS and he doesn't have a solid lead over the other two. I won't count him out, but I'm not going to proclaim him the winner of anything.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

TRUTH — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 01:06:03 GMT

Obama is clearly desperate now. He is the one never stops attacking others, direct or indirect using someone else to do the dirty work for him. I feel bad that Edwards should see through him long time ago. Obama is not some one you can trust or become a friend. He uses you when he needs you, then, see you. Just quicly go through his laundry, it is not hard to see that. He does not have capability Edward and Hillar have, far from that, he needs to go back on his training camp before opens his mouth. No wonder some foreign countries leaders ask, "who ? Obama, never heard of."" What he is talking about foreing policy ?" OMG !
OBAMA IS NOT VETTED, TESTED, NO EXPERINCE, CAN'T LEAD.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

mary baca, los lunas ,nm — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 01:11:18 GMT

mr obama!
you poke at hillary,and edwards, but when they slap you down u cry foul..what is up with that.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Ike Bonaventure — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 01:15:45 GMT

EXCELLENT ONE, Barack!

The fact of the matter is, John Edwards could be awarded an honorary doctorate degree at losing. His 2nd choice numbers from Obama supporters is slipping away.

Someone ought to tell him that if Obama had not made it clear earlier in the year that anyone who really wanted him to win should not engage in these kinds of activities on his behalf, all of our 527s woud be out there beating down the tiny competitiom from Edwards.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Kristian O — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 01:18:05 GMT

What a joke.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

pmorlan, Louisville, KY — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 01:30:00 GMT

Wow, looks like Obama is really losing it. Now he's asking Edwards to contact people at a 527. Everyone knows that it's against the law for anyone in a campaign to communicate with anyone in a 527. It's a good thing Christmas is Tuesday. Maybe the break will give Obama a chance to pull himself together and focus on his own campaign.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Fasteddie, Houma — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 01:37:20 GMT

Edward's has been just about living in Iowa for the last four years. If he was any good this campaign would have been over as soon as it started. But truth be told, Edward's is the least experienced candidate on the Democratic side. I was all for him in 2004, tickled pink when Kerry picked him as his running mate. But I still have not gotten over the fact that he could not even carry his home state. Had he carried North Carolina the party would have won. I remember how his ticket cried foul when the 527 swift boated Kerry. I can vote for Edwards if he gets the nomination. But I will have to put him in the same boat with Hillary if he does not stop the 527....because he can!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Paul — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 02:46:30 GMT

Reading all this negative claptrap and drivel makes one thing clear. The United States [as evidenced not just by its corrupt Administration, but by the calibre of the public discourse] is in worse shape than it has been in since the Civil War. Can any of these readers clkear their heads of bigotry and hatred and try a little logic, intelligence and common sense for a change.

It is easy to spew unsubstantiated accusations and character assassinations - the Swift Boat Veterans showed how low one can stoop. But at least give Obama credit for focusing on the issue. He did not attack Edwards, he simply said that he opposes 527 campaign spending in the primaries - a position that Edwards has publicly agreed with. So, if Edwards cannot get his former campaign manager to heed his publicly stated principles, how strong is his leadership? I happen to think it is a fair question, no matter who stands in the shoes of the recipient of the 527 campaign spending.
People who are zealous will do things they should not do, believing that tyhey are "helping" their candidate. The point is whether the candidate has the courage and the ability to shut down such operations when they do come to light.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Margaret, NYC — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 03:03:23 GMT

Exactly Josh!! When will Obama tell his 527 in Calif to stop raising MILLIONS for him? ha!

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19375615

Obama is a nasty little man - going negative on Edwards because Obama's internal polling is going down!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

israel clarke — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 03:03:57 GMT

Obama brings hope of change, people need to grow up and stop hanging on to the past, all these so called experienced candidates had their chance, I am in Iraq right now and I sorry if you vote for Hillary you might as well hang it up because more of your tax dollars are going to be wasted Hillary don't know if she is coming or going I can't trust her she acts on fear and that’s how we got in Iraq in the first place. Our biggest problem right now is foreigners we can't get them to level with us I think Barrack will get them to listen to us I think he will open there minds, all these people of the past has caused people around the world to hate us even more. This man was a gift given to us we need to seize this opportunity and give him a chance, just give him a chance I sure he couldn’t F it up more than it is right now this man has vowed to clean up this mess made by George Bush let’s see what he can do. Republicans need to spend the next 4 years finding out what they can do to improve their trust with Americans instead of trying to run for another term. Give him a chance to change the way we do business in the white house the fact that he don't have old time experience is good that's what we need a fresh start.

Seize the moment of excited curiosity on any subject to solve your doubts; for if you let it pass, the desire may never return, and you may remain in ignorance.
William Wirt
US politician (1772 - 1834)

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Margaret, NYC — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 03:06:23 GMT

Joe - Corporate lobbyists have FUNDED Obama's political career!
While Obama was engaged in Ethics reform last year - he was accepting donations from Washington lobbyists. Then he entered the prez race with a theme of "changing Washington."
If Obama had wanted to "change Washington" he could have stopped accepting lobbyists donations when he came to Washington.
Go Edwards!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Frank, FL — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 03:07:59 GMT

Helloooo! Obama has voted for 2 NAFTA trade deals within the past year! Obama won't change anything in Washington!

Go Edwards!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Margaret, NYC — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 03:34:38 GMT

Why is Obama attacking Edwards?? Isn't Obama "leading" in Iowa?
Oh wait --

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

OhioMom — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 03:44:10 GMT

IT IS ILLEGAL FOR A CANDIDATE TO HAVE ANY CONTACT WITH A 527 GROUP. Let's talk about whose hands are cleaner here. While John Edwards has never taken PAC or lobbyist money from Washington insiders, Obama's entire political career has been funded through special interests until this election, when he followed Edwards' lead. 527s are a whole other issue, as Obama well knows. These groups are LEGAL under current campaign laws, and while Edwards doesn't like them (he'd be VP if not for the Swift Boaters) he can't singlehandedly change the laws. It doesn't matter that he knows the guy representing the union that is running ads in his support. If he tried to have any influence over the 527, he would be BREAKING THE LAW. Obama is encouraging Edwards to commit a crime.

If Obama doesn't understand this, he's either really scared he's going to lose or he's one terrible lawyer. I trust savvy Iowans to see that the emporer has no clothes.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Andrew Finley, St. Louis, MO — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 03:51:32 GMT

The world needs a change, Obama is it.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

David English, Medford Oregon (living overseas in Korea) — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 03:59:33 GMT

"I mean the guy clearly gets a bad rap, some people have even called his religion into question just because he studied for 5 years at a Madrasa in Indonesia, I mean what possible effect could that have had on him? I am sure these minor issues... Osama... Muslim... don't excite the very people that he claims to want to sit down with. Get real... Get a life... sell the lie to someone else this year."
Bob, Columbus, Ohio

What's surprising is that someone who condones lying, repeats such obvious racist lies himself.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Estelle Lacks New York City — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 04:02:30 GMT

check the record)to helppeople and enhance their lives. Her early years as well heryears in the Senate are proof

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Estelle Lacks New York City — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 04:11:31 GMT

Obama has not the whole truth.He has accepted funds from large corporations too. Obama is all talk( a gifted orator ) but no substance.His lack of experience willbe a big problem when he has to form relations with the countries of the world.What change??? What does that mean? He is fooling us with words and charisma.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Dustin, Mount Morris, MI — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 04:38:07 GMT

Obama, you can't be serious you were a senator for 1 year before you ran. Your supporters say the inexperience is an strength. Who would want the most inexperienced in any other field? A resident brain surgeon? C'mon lets be serious I thought the last election had the weakest field of candidates? Obama or Clinton have no chance against at least three of the Republicans. Voting in a Dem or Rep is just more of the same. You all are idiots if you think otherwise, Bill Clinton never came through on his campaign promises why would Hillary. Realistically, Hillary is weak, any strong woman would have thrown Bill's arse to the curb after how many suspected affairs and some proven ones. Is that who you want fighting for the US on the world stage? Someone with such of a lack of backbone. Obama, it is hard to win the black vote without the sponsorship of the presidents of black people: Sharpton and Jackson, everybody would know that is the media told the truth. Wow, Ron Paul has some novel ideas that buck both parties!! Where is his voice in the debates? He stands there but the fanfare go to the mainstream as usual (whose giving the networks the kickbacks?) but there is a revolution, it is happening right here on the internet. When all of these old timers pass, we'll be the ones who are leading. Jump on board now or look like a fool later.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Chris, Adaville, Iowa — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 04:43:51 GMT

New numbers out!
Sen. Barack Obama is the only Democratic presidential candidate who polled higher than all five of the top Republican contenders in its latest national survey of potential "general election matchups," Zogby International reported this morning.
Obama led:
• Rudy Giuliani, 48%-39%.
• Mike Huckabee, 47%-42%.
• Sen. John McCain, 47%-43%.
• Mitt Romney, 53%-35%.
• Fred Thompson, 52%-36%.

Edwards:
• Led Huckabee, 47%-41%.
• Led Romney, 50%-38%.
• Led Thompson, 51%-35%.
• Trailed Giuliani, 45%-44%.
• Trailed McCain, 46%-42%.

Clinton:
• Led Romney, 46%-44%.
• Led Thompson, 48%-42%.
• Trailed Giuliani, 46%-42%.
• Trailed Huckabee, 48%-43%.
• Trailed McCain, 49%-42%.
http://www.zogby.com/news/ReadNews.dbm?ID=1404
http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2007/12/poll-obama-beats-any-and-all-gop-noms.php

Clinton, Romney lead pack in 'level of core opposition'
47% say they will vote against each no matter who else appears on ballot

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

DJS Poli Sci — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 05:14:27 GMT

Obama is cracking under the pressure. And getting terrible advice from his hack advisers, namely David "The Greaser" Axelrod, who curiously worked for Edwards in 2003-2004.

Which is advantageous to the Democratic Party, since Edwards is easily the most electable Democrat, and this will probably help him in Iowa. Edwards is clearly running the best campaign right now.

Obama and Hillary are huge gambles for the Democratic Party in a general election. Edwards, on the other hand, has "landslide" written all over him. But hey, what do I know. I'm only a political scientist.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Opa2 — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 06:18:12 GMT

Obama can see the weiting on the wall and he knows that when the chips are down he is going to lose both in Iowa and in NH. Game over. So now he starts complaining about the other candidates. First it was Hillary and now that John Edwards is climbing a bit (at his expense)in the polls, it's John who has done something "holier than thou" Osama would never do! Meanwhile this guy is so deep in the pockets of the Chicago money men that it's dark down there. Loser!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

--nsmsnbc — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 06:45:07 GMT

Why does B.H. Obama have Clinton experts as his advisers and is it a bad thing? The obvious reason, he has them because he wants to boost his foreign policy cred. He has proven wisdom when it comes to foreign policy, but having knowledgeable people around also proves wisdom. Perhaps why he continues to make wise choices. The second part: no, it is absolutely not a bad thing to employ Clinton experts. Look, Barack Obama is the future, but that doesn't mean the past screwed up terribly. He is smart enough to take the victories of the past and apply them to making the future better. That's what I want in a President. However, I would not advice Obama to make any big issues about the Clinton foreign policy experts. There are better battles to pick.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Len Brewer, Canal Winchester, Ohio — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 09:25:33 GMT

Obama doesn't need 527 to root for him, he has Oprah.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Msaki, Paul — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 09:38:57 GMT

KELLY, You are Highly recommended..."NO more Clinton dynasty and corrupted Health Industry.

!!! VOTE FOR BARACK OBAMA !!!"

AGAIN, AGE FOR TRANSPARENCY ARE AT HAND...AMERICANS REQUIRE STRAIGHT ANSWERS...OBAMA HAS HAS FOR THEM.

"There's plenty of experience in Washington. What's lacking is inspired leadership that can speak directly to the people,"
It is the time for Americans to have a new vision beyond the race. To look FAR for a new dignity, a new life in the line of expectations. The 'audacity of hope' --the true idealism, which sets the hearts deep back to the spirit of true American leader, a rising politician, a star. Obama symbolizes alot of firm minds, talents and strong political leaderships which have their remarkable foot prints in the hearts of Americans. He leads the spirit laid down by Abraham Lincoln..shedding lights all over; Then cames young and intelligent politician star --John F. Kennedy with talented and fresh ideas. And now here comes an exciting political visionary and young thinker--Barack Obama. Indeed the powers of The America Great Ages of hope to the World, will be cemented under what bestowed in the audacity of hope. This is what Americans need to get staged to for the defined future. Its a great time for Americans change, then change America. Bringing new hope and not 'decorated politics (old wine in new bottle) of Hillary and Her Husband'. Hil & Bill Politics mode is a sort of what chemistry describes as a type of reaction where 'No new substance is formed' as an output. Why should American embark on this miss? why blackout their future, hope and transparent destination? Obama adds 'new value'..he adds 'something new' to the America for Americans. Your endorsement is highly recommended. Again we say to others to keep it up, Oprah Win, keep it up Denzel Washington and many other celebrities to come. Draw a new ROAD MAP for new UNITED AMERICA. Its a very precise moment, to take a wiser mind, to fill the gap left between, locally and Internationally, for a more United America, more Stronger America for the World, more delighted Americans and new dignity...new cemented life beyond races, throwing away colors and races ideology for new dignity and hope. Lots of American hearts cry for 'Mr. Right', a right President! ONLY visionary BARACK OBAMA can close that gap.
--------
Also Edwards is weaker..."indication of Edwards' inability to lead, if he couldn't stop the advertising(527 group from advertising on his behalf)", he is so weak. "Well, you know, he said yesterday he's going to ask him to do it. And my attitude is: If you can't get your former campaign manager and political director to do what you like, then it's going to be hard to get the insurance companies and the drug companies to do what you like." outlines visionary Barack Obama.

AMERICANS...VOTE FOR NEW HOPE, VOTE FOR BARACK OBAMA!!'

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

dt, seattle — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 09:45:48 GMT

I dislike all politicians..all distorted the truth, cheat, and try to grab more and more power for themselves. I like highly educated people..like obama and hillary. I like obama..and will vote for him. I like hillary, but, she is one of those "old school" politicians. I sick of them.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Dickie Flatts, Charlotte, NC — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 13:14:13 GMT

Obama is also flipping the race card. His opponents are racist if they go after him. Poitical attacks should be a one street in Obama's mind where gives but doesn't get.

As for 527's ... is that really a smart play among Democrats? Democrats have embraced 527's. Barry didn't vote to support Moveon -- he dodged the vote and campaigned instead, now he rails against 527's. That dumb politics in the Democratic Party.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Dave Milstrome — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 13:51:24 GMT

OBAMA CHNAGES STANDS WITH EACH AUDIENCE! IT TIME TO NOT CONSIDER HIM AT ALL..SEND HIM BACK TO OPRAH

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. -- If he wanted, the Barack Obama of today could have a pretty good debate with the Barack Obama of yesterday.
They could argue about whether the death penalty is ever appropriate. Whether it makes sense to ban handguns. They might explore their differences on the Patriot Act or parental notification of abortion.
And they could debate whether Obama has flip-flopped, changed some of his views as he learned more over the years or is simply answering questions with more detail and nuance now that he is running for president.
The Democratic senator from Illinois hasn't made any fundamental policy shifts, such as changing his view on whether abortion should be legal. But his decade in public office and an Associated Press review of his answers to a questionnaire show positions changing in smaller ways.
Taken together, the shifts could suggest a liberal, inexperienced lawmaker gradually adjusting to the realities of what could be accomplished, first in the Illinois Legislature and then the U.S. Senate.
On the other hand, political rivals could accuse him of abandoning potentially unpopular views or of trying to disguise his real positions.
Take the death penalty.
In 1996, when he was running for a seat in the Illinois Senate, Obama's campaign filled out a questionnaire flatly stating that he did not support capital punishment. By 2004, his position was that he supported the death penalty "in theory" but felt the system was so flawed that a national moratorium on executions was required.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

John IA — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 14:31:42 GMT

$6.2 million. $11.9 million. $17 million. Can you guess what these figures mean?
Description: Profits at The University of Chicago Hospitals. Published: December 7, 2007
Those are monthly profit figures from the not-for-profit The University of Chicago Hospitals, the hospital that can't explain their discount policy for self pays and the uninsured (if they actually have one), and it's the hospital that pays Michelle Obama (wife of Presidential wannabe Barack Obama) a whole lot of money for part time work.
In FY2006, this not-for-profit hospital averaged $6.2 million in profit every month on their way to reporting a total profit of $74,236,000 for the year.

In FY2007, they averaged just over $11.9 million in profit every month on their way to reporting a total profit for 12 months of $143,158,000 .

And according to recently released financial statements, for the first 3 months of FY2008, they have reported making a profit of $51,015,000 which means they are now averaging a profit of just over $17 million a month.

Click Here For A Printer Friendly Version Of This Article

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Once again unions only criticize hospitals they are trying to organize.
Description: AFSCME. Published: December 3, 2007
Residents in various neighborhoods surrounding not-for-profit West Suburban Medical Center in Oak Park Illinois, received a glossy postcard mailing over the weekend from the American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) that questions the quality of care at this not-for-profit hospital that is a member of not-for-profit Resurrection Health Care, Illinois' largest not-for-profit Catholic healthcare system.
The mailing highlights 7 cites from a 2006 public health inspection report, examples that are supposed to give the reader pause about going to one of this systems eight hospitals.

It concludes by saying that "of the ten hospitals with the highest price markup in Illinois, three were Resurrection owned".

No surprise here, as here is what I wrote in March of this year.

"Last Saturday Senator Barack Obama spoke to a rally organized by the American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) of 1500 union activists in Chicago.

"Here's part of what the Chicago Tribune wrote about his appearance.

"As part of the event, the local union received a check from its national parent for $1 million to aid an ongoing labor-organizing effort involving Chicago-area hospital operator Resurrection Health Care. AFSCME President Gerald McEntee, who was joined on stage by AFL-CIO President John Sweeney, delivered the check for what is the largest private-sector union drive in the nation."

According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services not-for-profit West Suburban Medical Center has a cost to charge ratio of .3273 which means for every $327.30 in actual costs, they charge $1000.

The University of Chicago Hospitals has a cost to charge ratio of .2795.

That means for every $279.50 in actual costs they also charge $1000.

Not-for-profit The University of Chicago Hospitals is a bigger price gouger than not-for-profit West Suburban and makes a much bigger profit than Resurrection Health Care, but it has not been targeted by this Union.

Did we mention that Michelle Obama (Barack's wife) is a highly paid executive at The University of Chicago Hospitals, and that this past weekend that the state union AFSCME endorsed her husband for President?

Hypocrites.

Click Here For A Printer Friendly Version Of This Article

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Tooting my own horn.
Description: A story in Crain's Chicago Business. Published: November 12, 2007
This week’s Crain's Chicago Business has a story that's titled "Hospitals' profits soaring to new highs", which reports on the record profits being made by several of the larger not-for-profit health care systems in and around Chicago.
Every profit figure in the story has been previously reported here on the blog weeks earlier.

I actually was asked by the reporter who wrote the story for some help which I gladly gave and for which the blog received no credit.

No problem.

When it comes to information about the abuses by not-for-profit hospitals, you'll usually find the facts and figures here first, as was the case when I beat the Associated Press by reporting Michelle Obama’s salary and second job, and the Toledo Blade picking up my reporting of the total compensation of the head of ProMedica etc.

By the way, last Thursday I wrote in part that "According to an article in yesterday's Crain's Chicago Business, Cook County's private non-profit hospitals would be on the hook for up to $241 million total in annual property taxes if stripped of their tax-exempt status, according to a county assessor's report released Tuesday.

"Sounds good to me.

"By the way, the article did not deal with the profits being made by not-for-profit Cook County hospitals."

I think that line helped trigger this week's story on profits.

In response to the report by the Cook County Assessor the Illinois Hospital Association along with the Metropolitan Chicago Healthcare Council put out a real weak defense, the usual stuff about how much charity care they provide, etc.

My rebuttal are their profits, their excessive compensation, abuse of arbitrage etc.

Anyway if you want to read their bullxxxx, Click Here

Click Here For A Printer Friendly Version Of This Article

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My calls to the very very profitable not-for-profit The University of Chicago Hospitals.
Description: Discount policies for self pay. Published: November 8, 2007
As recently as a few months ago, this hospital where Michelle Obama works as a highly paid Vice President had no discount policy for self pays.
In fairness I try to stay on top of issues like this, so last week I checked back.

I started with their website.

Found this troubling piece of information.

"Usual, Customary, and Reasonable Rates

"Most insurance companies will pay only what is called a "usual, customary, and reasonable" (UCR) rate for hospital and physician services that are provided by an out-of-network physician or hospital.

"Each insurance company determines its own UCR rates for different medical services.

"Usually the UCR rate set by an insurance company is considerably lower than the hospital's or physician's charge for services. Payment by the insurance company is often a percentage of the UCR rate for a given procedure/service.

"If your insurance company pays based on UCR, you are then responsible to pay the difference between the UCR payment made by the insurance company and the charge for the service billed by the hospital or physician. This is in addition to the deductible and co-payment/co-insurance that you must pay according to your insurance plan. "

Troubling and did not answer my question regarding any discounts for self pays.

I did find this, "Patients with insurance questions or concerns may also contact the University of Chicago's Office of Managed Care at (773) 834-4730".

Called them immediately, the first of five offices I eventually talked to who couldn't answer the question, and suggested I try another office.

After a ridiculous conversation with somebody from the fifth office, they told me they would get the answer and call back.

They did, but the answer concerned discounts in their charity care (you know some varying amount for people up to 400% of the federal poverty level).

The person could not comprehend my question which finally was phrased, "let's say I make a million dollars a year, my bill is $100,000. I am willing to pay cash, what kind of a discount will I get?"

He expressed surprise that if I got a bill "out the wazoo" his term not mine, that if I was that rich, why wouldn't I just pay it.

I said because the bill was marked up by almost 350%, something he refused to believe that his hospital actually did.

He finally found something that he believed would give me a 25% discount but wasn't sure he was reading it or interpreting it correctly.

So I said please e-mail me what you have.

He asked why I would want it (simple-he can't explain it), and wanted to know what I would do with it.

It's been a week, no e-mail's and no return calls.

I would try and call Vice President Michelle Obama about this since she deals with the community, but she's running around Iowa and New Hampshire telling people that as President her husband will make health care more affordable.

Let's not forget that this not-for-profit hospital recently reported making a profit of over $143 MILLION in fiscal 2007, that's almost double from the $74 MILLION in profit that they reported for the year before.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Cathy, Connecticut — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 14:35:59 GMT

Edwards is exploiting the same 527 blueprint he used in the last election.
From Politico.com:
"Edwards also insisted on his lack of control of the 527, but its emergence mirrors a similar episode in 2004, when a senior adviser, Jonathan Prince, quietly departed the campaign to start a 527 funded by trial lawyers and unions that paid for mailings to Iowans, two people familiar with that group said.
This year, another former top aide, Baldick, is running the 527, which is called the Alliance for a New America."
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1207/7536.html

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Margaret, NYC — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 14:53:41 GMT

Lobbyists hit the campaign trail for Obama & Hillary -
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1207/7473.html

Obviously - this won't be on First Read.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Dorthy, Des Moins — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 14:56:32 GMT

This is sad for John Edwards, he was having a good cmpaign down the stretch. This hipocracy does hurt him, and it was born out of despiration and his inability to raise the kind of money from ordinary Americans that Obama could. I lost all respect for Hillary with all the dirty campaigning that came from her side.

I dont want to be on the wrong side of change this time around. My father was anti-black, and anti-semetic. I do not want to be on the side of an anti-muslim, anti-black part of this country. It is time to be on the right side of change. When Martin Luther King was on top of the mountain, what he saw was Barak Obama. Barak is the american dream, Matin dream. A man judged by the content of his charachter. It is time for us to caucus and vote for someone based on the content of their charachter. For me that is Barak Husain Obama.

Dorthy

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

C.B. — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 15:31:06 GMT

Come open your Christmas present early.. hillaryclinton.com

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

jospeh pierre — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 16:01:21 GMT

BOB from Columbus,
I understand that you're an EJ fanatic, but you can still make your arguments minus the smear.The idea that EJ can just come in and hit all the lobbyists and special interest groups with his magic wand over the head and made the vanish is LUDICROUS.If you buy that nonsense, I have a UFO craft to sell you.EJ is manufacturing outrage and resolve to fight when he had neither as a one-term senator. In addition, he make tons of money giving speeches on poverty.His 28000 sqft mansion runs counter to his fabricated humility.More importantly, he's promising more fights and gridlock in Washington if he thinks his newly fighting spirit will work out.How gullible can the American electorate be to go for Edwards' desperate attempts and Hillary's status quo posturing!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Shawn, Columbus, KY — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 16:12:06 GMT

Interesting that Obama has said he would not disavow 527 ads on his own behalf. Little hypocritical, don't you think?

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Brian, Wocester Massachusetts — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 16:23:49 GMT

OBAMA should be ashamed of himself for attacking a union group whether they supported him or not. Alliance for a New Americ is a SEIU sponsored group. Edwards should be proud to take labors support.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

pmorlan, Louisville, KY — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 16:37:33 GMT

Johnathan Alter just said on MSNBC that Edwards was correct that he couldn't contact the 527s because it is against the law but he mispoke(I hope he was misspeaking and not deliberate) on MSNBC when he referred to the 527s as lobbyists. There is a huge difference between independent 527s and registered lobbyists. MSNBC needs to correct this ASAP.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Glenda Columbus, Ohio — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 16:49:06 GMT

I think the most fascinating and frankly, the most disturbing thing about the election season, is the comments on articles I read. There are some really scary and often dillusional people in America. It's no wonder nothing ever gets done. If you read comments you find that they define words like "polarized" and "divisive". Reading comments also shows a complete lack of any willingness to compromise on anything. Makes me wonder if the electorate itself is it's own worst enemy! The candidates...any of them....are the least of our problems!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Mary Kansas — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 16:56:23 GMT

The best person with education and lot experience is Hillary Clinton then U.S. go back was before.

Mary

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Mary Kansas — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 16:56:40 GMT

The best person with education and lot experience is Hillary Clinton then U.S. go back was before.

Mary

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Sierra, SF — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 17:16:19 GMT

Tuck,Realityville, Ks:'...Obama is going NEGATIVE again....'

Look who's talking !!

Ditzy, disorganized Hillary has been negative all campaign.
If she can't run a campaign on her own, how can she hope to run America ?

Hillary has accomplished NOTHING in her 15 years of public life !
Shuck, what is her biggest accomplishment ?
Can you think of anything ?
(other than getting Norman Hsu to illegally contribute $850,00 to her campaign ?)

Hillary Clinton, 15 years of dishonesty, scandals and divisiveness

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

jade7243 — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 17:22:35 GMT

With regard to the independent 527s: it is possible for a candidate to provide direction and guidance PRIOR to a 527 being established by a group. Once formed, the campaign and the 527 can have no contact with one another.

So, 527 groups RARELY operate without someone from the campaign having some limited knowledge of whom might be preparing ads in support of or against one candidate or another. Can you spell "Swift Boat," boys and girls?

To Sharon Walker, Folsom, CA:
It is clear from your posts that you have no idea what you're pecking on the keyboard about.

To those of you who cry "RACE CARD!" at every turn, the problem lies within you, if you see every thrust and parry at your candidate as Obama playing the race card. He very pointedly hasn't made an issue of "race" in this race. Sooner or later, you will have to come to grips with your inner "demons."

But I will say this: you have the right to vote for whomever you want in this upcoming election. And to vote FOR them for whatever reasons you want. Choose wisely. Do not let your "attitudes" cast a vote ostensibly AGAINST a candidate based solely on race that you will regret later. Have the courage to see beyond skin color and your own prejudices -- if you can.

OBAMA '08!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Dickie Flatts, Charlotte, NC — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 17:43:31 GMT

New Iowa poll. Clinton is crushing the competition.

I knew Obama was in trouble when a) he went after Edwards with the bizzare line of attack on 527's.

Bubbye Barry.

http://www.campaigndiaries.com/2007/12/new-iowa-poll-is-christmas-gift-for.html

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Anne C., York PA — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 18:00:36 GMT

These "special interest" groups represented by the 527s are unions--not exactly the corrupt insurance, drug, oil companies and their lobbyists. Obama's mad because the unions aren't supporting him the way they are Edwards & Clinton. And he's being not only misleading but hypocritical. By law, the Edwards campaign is not allowed to coordinate with the 527 groups, and Edwards has issued a statement calling for an end to 527 advertising. But he cannot, as Obama would have you believe, call up the guy heading this up and ask him to stop. Obama, being a lawyer, should know better. And, Obama, if he's so dead against 527s, should step up to the plate himself and disavow them NOW for the general election. But he won't--he wants them when it may be to his advantage, but not when it may hurt him. Hypocrite! He's showing his true colors now. And, he also takes money from more big interest groups than Edwards does.

He needs to stop this, and stop it now.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Terry, Colorado Springs, Colorado — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 18:11:47 GMT

Based on the quotes provided in this article, Barack Obama can't even put a sentance together properly. The man is a joke. He is playing politics before his time. His foreign politics is studying the Koran (or however you spell it) when he was 12. He has little if any credentials or experience in our national politics yet we are entertaining the thought of giving him our vote?!

Shoot this folly down folks!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Tuck, Realiltyville, KS — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 18:12:18 GMT

sierra, when i want an opinion from a guy posting as a gal, i'll ask you for one.

til then , keep acashing them gop checks.

it's obama who's ditzy... he can't even make it to vote a bill he origianlly proposed (Kye/Lieberman).
he holds the record for missed votes in both the ilini senate and in this election!

when will he realize he has to do his job, and that it's NOT racist to point out he hasn't been doing his job

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Scott, Middletown CA. — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 18:13:55 GMT

John Edwards has been biting Obama's ankles for some time now--semantic arguments (His plan isn't REALLY Universal Health Care) and straw-man arguments (Obama expects lobbyists to voluntarily give up their power) all of which are nonsense. So Obama is finally kicking the little ankle biter. Good.

And it's not "going negative" to point out hypocracy in an opponent. "Going negative" means some sort of personal attack, which this isn't. This is a perfectly valid thing to point out--Edwards is a hypocrit, he says he opposes 527's, but then claims to have no controll over an ex-campaign worker and personal friend who's spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on free advertising for the Edwards campaign? Right.

When unauthorized 527's tried to spend money on Obama's behalf he jumped on it right quick, without needing to be prompted.

Edwards needed to be prompted to do the right thing. Obama talks the talk AND walks the walk--Edwards just talks the talk.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

where are we headed — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 19:12:33 GMT

jade, are you sugesting that if I do not vote for Obamma I am being racist? This is the problem with playing the race card. PC is running rampant in our country. People have become afraid to speak their mind. What is hate speech? To disagree with a minority, a homosexual, a petaphile etc is somehow regaurded as racist or intollerant. We are on a dangerous path here people, we had better wake up or free speech is out the window. Unless of course you want to speak harshly to a Christian that will always be protected...

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Sierra, SF — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 19:27:47 GMT

From the Washington Post.com:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/12/22/AR2007122201762.html?nav=rss_politics

Racial Undercurrent Is Seen in Clinton Campaign

'...By Chris Cillizza And Shailagh Murray
PLAYERS and PLAYERS
Sunday, December 23, 2007; Page A02

It has unfolded mostly under the radar. But an important development in the 2008 Democratic battle may be the building backlash among African Americans over comments from associates of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton that could be construed as jabs at Sen. Barack Obama's race.

These officials, including Clinton aides and prominent surrogates, have raised questions or dropped references about Obama's position on sentencing guidelines for crack vs. powder cocaine offenses; on his handgun control record; and on his admitted use of drugs as a youth. The context was always Obama's "electability." But the Illinois senator's campaign advisers said some African American leaders detect a pattern, and they believe it could erode Clinton's strong base of black support.

Here's a sample of how the issue is playing out:

From the "Tom Joyner Morning Show," Dec. 14:

Tom Joyner: "Yeah, man, they are coming after you now. So the story about the Clinton campaign putting out this statement not to vote for Barack Obama because he used drugs, and then yesterday I understand that she apologized and the campaign worker quit."

Obama: "Well, I think everybody knows, because I wrote about it in a book 10 years ago. . . . and part of the reason I wrote about it and I talk about it in schools is because I want young people out there to know that if they make the same kinds of mistakes that I made that they can get over it and that they can move on. . . ."

From columnist Derrick Z. Jackson of the Boston Globe, Dec. 15:

"That leaves open as to how far the Clinton campaign, whose poll leads have evaporated in Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina, will go to stereotype Obama as not only naive, but cast him in a sinister light in a nation where black drug use and criminality is exaggerated in the media . . . ."

" 'I don't think these strategies are very subtle,' Obama said. 'I won't speak to the racial element of it because I think, you know, if I were a white candidate, obviously, somebody suggesting falsely they were a drug dealer, it's never good.' But in sum, Obama, who has written about his teenage drug use in his memoirs, said, 'There's been a series of these kinds of tactics that at some point we've just got to send a clear signal this is not what we're about.' "

From Black Star News of New York, Dec. 19:

"So the Clinton campaign decided to use the race card. A senior campaign official, Billy Shaheen, the co-chairman of Hillary Clinton's campaign in New Hampshire, warned voters that Obama might not be the suitable candidate because were he to win the Democratic nomination, those nasty Republicans could bring up the fact that Obama has admitted to using marijuana and cocaine in his youth. Might the Republicans not even ask whether Obama had also been a drug dealer? This was clearly playing to the deep seated stereotype that some white people harbor -- of Blacks as natural born criminals and drug dealers." ...'From tjhe

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Tuck, Realiltyville, KS — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 20:55:09 GMT

lol, barak mentioned his drug use , but not his elite private high school, nor that he came from an upper middle class family.

Pooor whinnnny barak... playing the race card over and over again.

sierra, son, you're the perfect obamaite... a republican looking for the weakest canidate in the democratic field.
You found him! Obama!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

TG, Altoona, PA — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 21:05:11 GMT

Interesting how when others have mentioned Obama's past drug use or muslim background, they suddenly apologize to Obama. Obama also complains when others campaign "dirty". But suddenly he is playing dirty. It is the usual program of race card politics, and double standards, Obama will divide this country.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Simon, IA — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 21:22:11 GMT

Both Obama and Edwards are hypocritical. Is that a surprise? They are politicians and they have to act like that.

Nothing is going to change except few few things here and there. Yes, the healthcare will change if it is a Democratic President irrespective of who it is.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Judy Rennick, Dover, DE — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 22:34:52 GMT

I am getting truly tired and disgusted by people who think they make a valid argument against Obama by pretending to mispronounce his name as Osama, by making a big deal about his middle name and by slanderously claiming he is a tool of the Muslim terrorists. First of all Obama is a Christian and not a Muslim and equally importantly, most Muslims are decent, religious people and not terrorists. To try and use these arguments against the one candidate who could bring this country together and bring pride back to a presidency that has been seriously harmed by the dishonesty and stupidity of George Bush and the immorality of Bill and Hillary Clinton, is a a very poor decision
.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Nathan, Chicago, IL — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 01:02:27 GMT

I assume all of you want to continue this "Us" against "Them" mentality. Who needs the republicans with dems like you guys? Most of the posters on this board are pathetic. How can our nominee be weak if he/she can obtain the nomination and the entire democratic party is supporting them in the fall? Wake up, guys! I don't think any of our nominees are weak. We have legitimate differences within the democratic party but you must support all of our candidates. This is why the republicans have been kicking our butts since 1980. You can switch over to the republican party now so the real democrats can support our candidates.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Jonathan, Council Bluffs Iowa — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 03:12:29 GMT

Whats wrong barak...getting a little scared about Edwards coming up behind ya? Is it the fact that your plans out west are failing? Or is is the fact that Edwards is pulling larger crowds than you are? Or is it the fact that even supporters of yours know that everyone in the party likes John and thinks that you have the best chance to win in the general. Or was it the poll taken a few weeks ago showing that John beat all the republicans and you...didnt... Or is it the fact that despite spending millions more than John Edwards you are behind in the polls, or is the fact that the first lady of Iowa Mari Culver, who is beloved in this state, endorsed you which many people in Iowa see as an endorsement of John from the Governor himself even after both of them said that they would not be endorsing anyone under any circumstances

I dont know barak. Things are not looking good. You peaked to quick now comes the hard truth: The people of Iowa want substance. They want leadership. But more importantly; they want someone who they can relate to, who has shared their struggles, who worked to pay college, who know what is is like to struggle and work hard.

I dont see obama who went to Harvard Law...I see John Edwards. The man who, according to the Wall Street Journal, "set the terms of the Democratic presidential debate on many issues...on issue after issue, Mr Edwards has been the first to stake out where the party consensus message seems to end up" or when Paul Krugman of the New York Times wrote "John Edwards broke the issue of health care reform open in February, when he proposed a smart and serious plan for universal health insurance and bravely announced his willingness to pay for the plan by letting some of the Bush Tax cuts expire. Suddenly, universal health care went from being a distant progressive dream to something you could actually envision happening in the next administration"

This can all be seen in His Policy book. No other campaign has the guts to spell out, in detail, how they will change the country. Not hill, not Obama, not even the old grey beards like Biden and Dodd.

John Edwards 08 yall its that simple. It is really that simple

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

THANKS — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 03:27:14 GMT

WOW, I am so impressed that there are some good, I do mean GOOD, posts here today.
**Sharon Walker, Folsom, CA
**John IA
**Dave Milstrome
People are getting serious and want to make sure they are backing a right candidates. I feel so proud, better than watching Hardball. I believe somehow someday we will have a real hardball hosted by posters, not Chris and his gang.

This election is a showdown for all candidates;
This election is a showtime for all media.
This election is a growth spurt for ordinary people.
Some found roots,
some lost heart and soul,
some learn from all and moving forward.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

ki houston — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 07:19:16 GMT

i see on this blog you love to let dickey ,and tuck spew all the lies and hate they like, but when i responed my post are not posted . So let me say are not you all ashamed of yourself yet . I hope you dont do anything bad to yourself when your girl loses.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

ki houston — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 07:29:35 GMT

you guys keep dreaming , Obama is only bringing the obvious to front . He would be neglegent not to bring up this hypocricy . You clowns talking about he cant talk to his 527 , are you crazy , its his campian manager . you guys just kill me .

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Bo D., Mclean, VA — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 08:11:43 GMT

Obama is the man. Way to keep'em honest.
Edwards, do you really expect us to believe that your ex campaign manager/friend just started running ads for you without you knowing about it. Come on!!! What do you take us for...oh yeah, the same people that put Bush in office...TWICE. Obama is what we need to change the government back into something we can believe in again. Obama is our last best hope. Obama 08!!!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Reggie Boykins, St. Louis, MO — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 10:59:12 GMT

Obama says 527's are not good during the primaries. He will have no problems loading up the "527-guns" when the time comes to go against those ruthless, republicans in the general election.

You say he's whinning; the man is actually brilliante and in my opinion he shared a little of his strategy by suggesting to Edwards, essentially, to "hold the dogs until one of us will need them to go against equivilent 527's on the republican side."

Look at Obama exercising leadership for the party. And I believe Edwards has agreed to comply with this sensible, strategic, request.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Barbara C., Pompano Beach, FL — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 15:34:08 GMT

Merry Christmas to all on this site....

I can now understand why we cannot read anything into these polls coming out of Iowa or N.H. First of all--with the FL primary coming in a little over a month...I am still undecided. Looking at myself as a Democrat, I am asking myself.....four to eight more years of viceral politics with the Clintons....or a major change with Obama, and a fresh, more charismatic president. I also like Biden, Dodd and Richardson. I am, in a selfish way, hoping there is a clear winner out of Iowa or N.H. that can help me make my decision on the 29th of January....

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Local Jim, Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 17:09:12 GMT

You are all sad to fall for all these spin articles the media has you read. The ONLY thing that will matter is when those PRIMARY numbers are in and we hope to see Obama on top. Hate all you want but you all need to take a look at the BIG picture and notice that Its either going to be Hillary or Obama. So you can bicker all you want because he said she said and so on but if you all don't pull your heads out of your butts then we will end up with some religious nut republican back in office. I am sure Obama isn't perfect but he is FAR better than any other candidate out there by far.
To think that we are on the verge of something wonderful for this country and you all are starting to dissect every moment of a persons past present and future to find fault. Your letting yourselves to be influenced by far right conservatives and weak minded individuals to break someone down.
NO ONE IS GOOD ENOUGH FOR THIS COUNTRY!! NO ONE but at least Obama is a man with the most integrity and character that is available by far! And if you think in terms of experience than please note of the experience factor in past presidents such as Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy. Our generation deserves a moment of greatness!!!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

ki houston — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 17:57:10 GMT

well said, Local Jim, Ft. Lauderdale, Fl.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

local joe,miami — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 18:06:53 GMT

local jim, obama sucks and is the worse of the democratic canidates out there.
he's corrupt, weak, naive, and childish.
it would be better that McCain be president than barak.
barak will restore the gop majority in congress within 2 years

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Russ Wells, Maine — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 18:36:32 GMT

im not a canadate supporter yet but i think the clintons know how to milead so you can tell i wont support her and that obama can handle her. Such a shame that clinton supporter have to email you and tell ous how great she is......shes history.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Simon, IA — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 19:41:03 GMT

I am, in a selfish way, hoping there is a clear winner out of Iowa or N.H. that can help me make my decision on the 29th of January....
Barbara C., Pompano Beach, FL (Sent Tuesday, December 25, 2007 10:34 AM)

It will be Hillary, Barbara.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Cynthia Lee, New York, NY — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 00:24:10 GMT

You want to know what this really comes down to - people are going to compromise every which way with this election. He or she can do this or that because they are . . .

But let him try anything, they will go down in a grave to polarize this country.

We are so use to accepting under handed policies and trickery under the guise of "experience," that we will say it is okay to anything and everything.

Someone can violate a young person's life, its okay. Someone can take money from organizations, its okay. Someone can have others slander and have no control of their spouse or campaign managers, its okay.

Let it fall where it may, we are going to win this election because of who we are and the American people are going to back us all the way.

They will do anything they want in this election campaign, and we as Americans will sit back and say, "Its okay."

These are good folks. They have our interests at heart. Not.

So what will we do? Compromise.

As the whole world look on and see exactly how we really operate.

Some will laugh and say, "Only in America."

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

John, Minneapolis, MN — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 01:14:08 GMT

Obama has all the credentials needed to be president of the united states. what is needed is good judgement when it matters. if experience and long resume' is so important it would have helped Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld to make the right call in regards to Iraq.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

tom,seattle,wash — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 03:18:07 GMT

dt,seattle
about hilary...her old school will be her husband.... not her daddy and his cronies

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Lynn, Arkansas — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 03:24:11 GMT

If Obama can have Oprah campaign for him for three days in three states, with her well documented influence how can he keep a straight face and decry the 527's. He couldn't have raised enough money to pay her for what she did in the next 10 years, yet he wants to deny regular citizens the right to stand up (and pay) for what they believe in, in an election, just because they may not be personal friends of the candidate? But then he'll authorize using them in a general election so he can win? And someone wants to critize other candidates for double speaking? Look in the mirror Obama fans.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

tom,seattle,wash — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 03:24:12 GMT

John IA
WOW!!!!!!! thank you for the info

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

CJP, Ad Diwaniyah, Iraq — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 07:41:40 GMT

Barack has not condemned 527s, especially not the ones working for him (e.g. VoteHope & Bank it for Barack). In fact, he has said that he would use them in the general election.

Why doesn't he call these groups and tell them not to run ads? Because its illegal to coordinate with them. That's why John Edwards isn't doing it. Because HES NOT ALLOWED TO BY LAW.

Barack knows this, but hes also smart enough to know that average people like his supporters are dumb enough to be duped by his lies and hypocrisy.

Why is Barack going negative and whining like a child spoiled with too much celebrity attention and lobbyist money? Rhetorical question.

Stop all this bickering and just concede that John Edwards happens to be the best candidate. He's asked all 527s to stop. He's never taken lobbyist money. He has real plans, not just hope.

Most importantly, John Edwards has the message that is most relevant for America today. If you have any doubt about that, just watch a movie called "The Corporation." Its available all over the internet.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Mark, Bridgeport, CT — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 09:16:22 GMT

Hey folks, Obama has publicly asked people to donate to his campaign, INSTEAD of the independent PACs in California. Edwards refuses to do that. The Vote Hope PAC is not run by a former Obama staffer, the Edwards PAC *IS* run by Edwards' previous campaign manager. Google it, you'll see the truth.

Your disinformation and half-truths fail to mask reality, and my vote is STILL for Obama. All the BS that Edwards supporters and Obama-haters are peddling just cements my vote.

Fired up! Ready to go!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

JoDee, ATL — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 09:35:40 GMT

I'm still unsure as of now who will get my vote. But I DEFINATELY know who I will not vote for, Obama!! It's strange to me how someone with such a lack a experience can even think about let alone believe he can be our next President! I think with all this race, Muslim, his church and background aside, it must go back to experience. Let’s say your ill and you’re looking for a Doctor, do you go to a med student or a Physician to treat you! This is just a simple example of experience and the importance of it in a position of meaning or in this case power. People will like Obama based on things like he is the first black man to run (this far),he "appears" to desire change and Oprah.This is just a few examples I'm sure there are those that just simply like Obama, that's fine. But when someone is going to run a NATION then he or she needs something called EXPERIENCE! I have two very young cousins fighting for this country (one in Iraq) and I am not allowing their precious lives to lie in the hands of an inexperienced man. God bless our Troops!!

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

GG, Frisco, Texas — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 10:30:40 GMT

Common sense and thinking outside of the box can open up so much in your livs where you're able to grow. But stretch the truth without true facts only hurts this country. Think America, we need real change this time.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

A Dem Who'll Vote Republican if Obama's The Nominee — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 14:59:32 GMT

JoDEE, ATL.....You hit the mail right on the head. I'm a lifelong Democrat who would vote for ANY candidate other than Barrack Obama.
I didn't think it could be done in the wake of Bush's incompetance.
But, he and his people are making Republicans out of Democrats.
There are a lot more of us out there too.
There's a huge anti-Obama senitment within mainstream Democrats.
Hillary is the logical and ONLY choice if we want to win back The White House. Obama would lose, and lose BIG.

Obama keeps up 527 criticism

Paul, DSM — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 13:33:26 GMT

When Martin Luther King was on top of the mountain, what he saw was Barak Obama. Barak is the american dream, Matin dream. A man judged by the content of his charachter. It is time for us to caucus and vote for someone based on the content of their charachter. VOTE FOR OBAMA