Obama on guns, NIU violence

JC, Baltimore — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 18:51:23 GMT

Very smart to start regulating bullets. If you are a gun owner you really shouldn't have any reason to object, and if you a gun control proponent it is a step in the right direction of encouraging responsible gun use.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

squitnz, philly, pa — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 18:55:25 GMT

"He called for existing gun laws to be strengthened and pointed to a new law in California that allows authorities to trace bullets back to the guns they came from as a measure that both sides of the gun debate could potentially agree upon."

Exactly right - find a possible point of agreement, start there. This is what I like about Obama. Logic. That, and he can come up with constitutional analysis off the top of his head. I know there isn't any specific expertise required to be President, but if you're going to be an expert at something, the Constitution seems like a good something. As opposed to, say, brush clearing. Or baseball.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Johnson, New Orleans, LA — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 18:56:49 GMT

Another reason why Obama should be president. He is able to find a ground that both parties can agree on. Its not "wanted" by both parties but its not "hated" by both parties either. This shows that Obama can manage his way through party lines and get congress united and something done during his presidency.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 18:58:59 GMT

Huh, interesting argument. And its fun having a candidate who can be interesting from time to time.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Houston — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:00:42 GMT

The Pubs think that the way to solve the problem of ever-more-frequent school shooting massacres is to arm ALL the students. That won't cut down on the massacres, but it sure will make professors think twice about giving any of their students a failing grade.

Face it, the obscene levels of gun violence in the US is the price we must pay for the precious right of the gun nuts to have their own private arsenals. They sure won't be voting for Obama, what with his approval of "common-sense" gun laws. They'll all be voting for McCain because the Pubs are all pro-gun, pro-torture, and anti-common-sense.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

James — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:00:50 GMT

Obama is not saying anything that hasn't been said before.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

CHuck, NY — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:02:27 GMT

This is why Senator Obama stands out. This is a very logival and compelling argument. If he is elected President, I would hope he nomintaes people to our courts who think this way too.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Obama '08 — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:04:32 GMT

Obama would have voted to outlaw guns, if they had that vote. Obama would have never authorized the 2nd amendment, had he been there. Being a community activist he would have organized all the gangs and outlawed both shotguns and hand guns, if anyone had asked. Obama would have done the right thing, what ever that is, if he had to. Yes we can, because I said I could, if I had to. Hey I'm young, Oh, I'm also half African and I know what it is like to do drugs; so vote for me because I'm kool. Who said you have to have any experience to be President; probably some republican made that up. Yes I Can!

Obama on guns, NIU violence

A fan — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:05:45 GMT

"As opposed to, say, brush clearing. Or baseball. "

Who knows anything about baseball (except maybe steriod use)? The Boy Genius traded away Sammy Sosa.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

C.K. Steele Fort Lauderdale, FL — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:06:29 GMT

This is an example of political courage by Senator Obama. I've been witness to many a Democrat go up in blazes when anything concerning the 2nd amendment is brought up. He didn't ignore the issue but instead pointed to a common sense starting point for some kind of reconcialiation. I am a Democrat AND I am a gun(s) owner but I do believe that some kinds of regulation are necessary. There are some who completely dislike guns and some who believe that there should be no regulation whatsoever. Mr. Obama is at least trying to negotiate instead of just attacking--something that Senator Clinton should learn. Now I wonder what Senator Clinton's response would be to the same question. Would it be a poll-based response or what she truly believes is right?

Obama on guns, NIU violence

cj, maine — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:07:39 GMT

squitnz -

Not a mere coincidence that he can come up with an analysis of the constitution right off the top of his head. He was a professor of Constitutional Law for some 10+ years.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Marbw — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:08:02 GMT

Although Barack Obama has represented urban areas of the country where gun violence was a community concern, he has been a long-time and consistent supporter of all Americans’ right to bear arms. Senator Obama has led the way in protecting our law enforcement officials by cracking down on armor-piercing bullets while also protecting individual rights of hunters and gun owners.

o Obama said he supported better enforcement of existing gun laws, not new ones. Obama said he supported “common sense gun control measures. For now, the federal government should focus on better enforcement of existing gun laws, rather than creating new ones.”

o Obama voted to give concealed carry for retired police and military. Obama voted to allow retired peace officers and military personnel who have served honorably for at least 10 years to receive a permit to concealed firearms. He was the only Chicago Democrat to do that. [93rd GA, SB 2188, 3/26/04, 3R P; 40-13-1]

o Obama voted to allow the use of a handgun for hunting. Obama voted to allow the use of a handgun during the open hunting season for deer. [93rd GA, SB 257, 3/24/03, 3R P; 47-5-2; 5/28/03, HA 1 SC; 55-2-0]

o Obama said municipalities should control local gun regulations, not the state. ‘That law eviscerated anti-handgun ordinances in some communities… The way I feel, Wilmette should not determine Mattoon’s firearms ordinances and Mattoon should not determine Wilmette’s. Obama said, “I don’t necessarily support those (gun-ban) laws… but I think local communities should have the right to pass them, and that’s what this law was about.” [Chicago Tribune, 10/8/04; Springfield Journal-Register, 6/3/04]

Barack Obama fully supports funding the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), a successful program that provides federal funds for hiring officers and acquiring equipment. President Bush proposed to slash COPS funding by 80 percent while Senator Obama believes this funding must be restored. Barack Obama voted to increase the penalty for assaulting a police officer with a deadly weapon and increased penalties for assaults upon a peace officer in general.

Barack Obama respects the Second Amendment right of gun owners and believes we can pass and enforce common sense gun laws to keep guns away from children and from criminals who should not be allowed to possess them due to their past conduct. He is also a strong supporter of making the expired federal Assault Weapons Ban permanent, and believe such weapons belong on battlefields and not on our streets.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Fred, Dallas, TX — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:08:44 GMT

Obama has taken way enough money from Lobbyist yet look who these two hippocrats attack here

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Fred, Dallas, TX — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:10:54 GMT

We are in deep trouble wow the logic of Obama thinkers, it just blows the mind.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

roseann — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:10:59 GMT

god,i do agree,obama can make take a messy problem and make it look as though it is as easy as fixing a flat tire..good commonsense!!it should be required of all public officials.bout time,obama 08

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Obama '08 — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:13:17 GMT

Hey, I organized people! Did you forget, I'm a civil rights attorney! People think I'm young and kool, and so do I. I'm a community activist and supported by George Soros who knows just what you Americans need. My leftist friends will ensure you get what we feel you should have so repeat after me, "Yes we can." Oh, there is no illegal immigrant problem my fellow Americans - the Republicans made it up and there is nothing to fear. There is no reason undocumented voters can't have drivers licenses or free healthcare paid for by the rich American workers. We're all immigrants comrades.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Ron, TX — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:13:54 GMT

Middle ground... it's what this nation was founded on, and it's the only way this nation can move forward!

Middle-Ground! Obama '08!

Obama on guns, NIU violence

roseann — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:13:57 GMT

fred,what are you talking about???you are in the wrong forum

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Therecord, California — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:14:10 GMT

To PBrown (Sent Friday, February 15, 2008 1:48 PM)This is the Record

Obama's record in Illinois represents that of a pragmatic progressive, who pushed for moderate reforms and opposed right-wing legislation. In the IL legislature, voting "present" is the equivalent of voting "no" because a majority of "yes" votes are required for passage. Many IL legislators use the "present" vote as an evasion on an unpopular choice, so that they can avoid being targeted for voting "no." During the 2004 Democratic primary, an opponent mocked Obama's "present" vote on abortion bills with flyers portraying a rubber duck and the words, "He ducked!".
In 1997, Obama voted against SB 230, which would have turned doctors into felons by banning so-called partial-birth abortion, & against a 2000 bill banning state funding. Although these bills included an exception to save the life of the mother, they didn't include anything about abortions necessary to protect the health of the mother. The legislation defined a fetus as a person, & could have criminalized virtually all abortion.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Mike, Hermosa Beach, CA — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:16:08 GMT

Another "gun free zone" slaughter. Cesare, marchese di Beccaria-Bonesana correctly said in his 1764 On Crimes and Punishment:

"Laws that forbid the carrying of arms... disarm only those who are neither inclined nor determined to commit crimes... Such laws make things worse for the assaulted and better for the assailants; they serve rather to encourage than to prevent homicides, for an unarmed man may be attacked with greater confidence than an armed man."

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Therecord, California — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:16:40 GMT

Q: When you were in the state senate, you talked about licensing and registering gun owners. Would you do that as president?
A: I don't think that we can get that done. But what we can do is to provide just some common-sense enforcement. The efforts by law enforcement to obtain the information required to trace back guns that have been used in crimes to unscrupulous gun dealers. As president, I intend to make it happen. We essentially have two realities, when it comes to guns, in this country. You've got the tradition of lawful gun ownership. It is very important for many Americans to be able to hunt, fish, take their kids out, teach them how to shoot. Then you've got the reality of 34 Chicago public school students who get shot down on the streets of Chicago. We can reconcile those two realities by making sure the Second Amendment is respected and that people are able to lawfully own guns, but that we also start cracking down on the kinds of abuses of firearms that we see on the streets.

Source: 2008 Democratic debate in Las Vegas Jan 15, 2008

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Amy B Portland, ME — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:16:44 GMT

Ever heard the Republicans on gun control? They talk as if the Democrats are threatening to recind the 2nd amendment. It's how they will elections, frightening the uninformed. Obama is a breath of fresh air. Common sense? Yes!

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Todd, Phoenix, AZ — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:22:34 GMT

Now I wonder what Senator Clinton's response would be to the same question. Would it be a poll-based response or what she truly believes is right?

C.K. Steele Fort Lauderdale, FL (Sent Friday, February 15, 2008 2:06 PM)

Why do you make presumptions about her response .... obviously you're anti-Clinton and looking to disparage her any way you can. I'm sure Senator Clinton has a thoughtful position on gun control based on her own convictions, but I'm willing to bet you'll tear it down in one way or another.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Rick — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:23:05 GMT

Look for mccain to issue an "we must arm all students so they aren't outgunned on their way to class" statement soon...remember, guns don't kill people, bullets do...

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Nicholas: Minnesota — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:25:46 GMT

o Obama voted to allow the use of a handgun for hunting. Obama voted to allow the use of a handgun during the open hunting season for deer. [93rd GA, SB 257, 3/24/03, 3R P; 47-5-2; 5/28/03, HA 1 SC; 55-2-0]
Marbw
--Another example of why you probably are my all-time favorite F-R poster. Good information, I learn a lot. Anyway, I have never heard of hunting with a handgun. Does anybody actually do such, why?

--Anyway, common sense regulation? What would actually happen if we had a President that listened to common sense? In that respect, he couldn't be more different than G.W. Bush.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Chuck, NY — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:25:59 GMT

Sorry I did not proof my typing before I hit the 'Submit' button.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

HILLARY — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:26:58 GMT

LET'S DEBATE THIS IN WISCONSIN SENATOR OBAMA.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Anti Reaganess Big Talkers, Columbus Georgia. — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:28:44 GMT

OMG!!

In other words Obama has said nothing as usual....

Nothing new there.

He was for Gun Control before, but now he is against it.

Like the War, against it.... then for it....now against it again..Which way is the wind blowing NOW??

WELCOME TO A NEW KIND OF POLITICS.... Obama 08.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Anti Reaganess Big Talkers, Columbus Georgia — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:29:59 GMT

OMG!!

18 debates with 18 people stop the stupid spin, we are not as blind and easily led as Obamite Lemmings, it's only TWO DEBATES where the two contender candidates have talked a little.

Let them go at it.... Let the chips fall where they may....

Obama is a brilliant orator, so let him brilliantly orate....

The more debates the better for *all.*

Chickens go bak bak bak bak daak. or is it "Baraak."

BTW does anyone know if Barack, stole Hillary's economic package...
The Republicans (part of Obama's crossover constituency according to the unity people) say he has blatantly, brazenly stolen it.

Apparently, they, the Republicans, haven't crossed over much.... so much for the unity (BS).
They are all politicians, they (all) want power first. It's a matter of who can best control "it," and drive "it," in a direction that is profitable and suitable for the country, as a whole.... using that power...

LET THEM DEBATE.... IT'S GOOD FOR ALL OF US, THEM TOO...

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Kathy Smith, Madison,Wi. — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:33:25 GMT

Yes,it's true there will be a debate in Wisconsin after all. Stay tuned for further information.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

James J, Orange California — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:33:30 GMT

I'm sure the other canidate has a "solution" for all our gun issues

Obama on guns, NIU violence

CO Obama Supporter — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:34:28 GMT

Quote from HillaryClinton.com:

"I am deeply saddened by the senseless crime which took place yesterday at Northern Illinois University. My heart goes out to the victims and their loved ones. As a mother, I cannot begin to imagine the heartbreak and sadness wracking these families. They are in my prayers."

Not much depth there, in my opinion, but I am sure Hillary will have a position on the matter in the near future, after she consults with her staff. Then I assume that she'll have her talking points perfected her debate performances coming up.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

squintz, philly, pa — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:34:34 GMT

CJ, Maine - yes, I know, that's what I was getting at!

A Fan - So true. OK, I should have said "supposed" expertise. I also haven't personally seen the state of his brush...

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Hillary — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:37:06 GMT

I approved of NAFTA! I'm a big liar!
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-sirota/hillary-clinton-pretends-_b_86747.html
The Buffalo News reports that back in 1998, Clinton attended the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, and thanked praised corporations for mounting "a very effective business effort in the U.S. on behalf of NAFTA." Yes, you read that right: She traveled to Davos to thank corporate interests for their campaign ramming NAFTA through Congress.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Brian, Sarasota, Florida — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:37:46 GMT

I hope Texas is seeing this.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

USING CAPS IS THE ONLY WAY I GET NOTICED — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:38:11 GMT

Oh crap, it's all caps debate guy again - guy/gal, if you're gonna keep posting your little rabble, pick a phrase and a name - trying to change the line and name every time just makes it more irritating and futile.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Zachary — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:38:16 GMT

So refreshing. Most people are not as far apart on the divisive social issues as politicians and special interest groups would like us to believe, and Obama appears to be able to bridge that gap.
Small factions like to paint the gun issue as black and white. One side says we should all have guns with no restrictions and the other says no one should have any guns. They energize voters on this issue as if there was no in between and it helps them win elections, etc. But then we really get nowhere. Gun owners (hunters, sportsman etc) are not happy and people are dying in the streets while we continue to go back and forth - all guns, no guns, all guns... What we need to do is step back and say, ok, some people want guns, maybe that's ok if it's only for recreational use or self-defense, after all, it's the killers we really want to get the guns away from. So, let's enact some legislation to make it far more difficult for them to get access, or to get away with using their guns in a crime, and let's do it in a way that won't infringe on legitimate gun ownership. And best of all, such a compromise may happen! And lives would be saved! Nothing will get done while battling extreme positions. Cut through the special interests and make things happen that are best for the American people. Love it. And this is just guns. It's the same with health care. Obama's plan is realistic and cuts right to the heart of the problem. Hunters buying guns is not why we have so much gun violence in this country. Lack of mandated health care is not why we have so many people unable to afford health care. Get to the real issues. Guns used in crimes. The high cost of health care. Actionable ideas that can be accomplished and benefit America instead of extreme positions used to artificially galvanize ones political base against the others. Love it! Obama can change the way we view and do politics.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

ndolomar — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:40:40 GMT

Dear Aswini Anburajan,
Although by the tone of your article, you seem to convey a slightly anti-obama element, as a copy editor, i invite you to take a look at the below edit (and perhaps reserve the 'sic' for when it's really needed). just a suggestion.

you quote obama: "So I think there's a lot of room before you [sic] bumping against a constitutional barrier for us to institute some of the common-sense gun laws."

logical edit: So, I think there's a lot of room before you, bumping against a constitutional barrier for us to institute some of the common-sense gun laws."
notice how the comma inserted for pause (which is common) makes his syntax more understandable? this also could be achieved using an em or en dash.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

ron h. — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:41:00 GMT

yeah todd from phoenix, her position would probably be it would hurt wal-mart sales.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

John, Morgan Hill, California — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:41:13 GMT

This Wisconsin debate argument is starting to sound like Rudy 9/11 Giuliani. You know, the guy who brought up 9/11 in response to every question? Come to think of it, he also had the "ignore these little states and wait for my big push in an Important State" strategy. And he is from New York. Hmmmmm.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

C.K. Steele Fort Lauderdale, FL — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:42:01 GMT

Anyway, I have never heard of hunting with a handgun. Does anybody actually do such, why?

Nicholas: Minnesota (Sent Friday, February 15, 2008 2:25 PM)

It kind of depends on what part of the country that you're in and the local regulations and guidelines. In my personal opinion, I think it's kind of dumb but then some people think all hunting is. Some people do it for the thrill because you generally have to get closer to the target. Most people I know hunt with bows and rifles. They have shotgun seasons also but I stay away from those because they are too dangerous! Sometimes a handgun is used to humanely put an animal out of its misery after some idiot shot the deer in the stomach or tried to be "Rambo" and go for a headshot. Also some people down here hunt gator--legally and illegally--and a handgun is usually necessary for that.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Marbw — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:43:31 GMT

**** February 19:

Hawaii (D)-
The caucus for presidential preference polling begins at 7:00 p.m. and will end no earlier than 7:30 p.m. Many sites are opening earlier for registration and processing for those registered voters who join the Democratic Party that night. Officials hope many voters will register ahead of time so they can be prepared at the polling sites. You will want to check where the sites are ahead of time because the polling places are not necessarily the same locations where you vote in an election.
---
Barack Obama's sister Maya explains the Hawaii Caucus --
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHV9Ac8t9UY&eurl -

http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/hihome-
http://www.hawaii.gov/elections-
http://www.hawaiidemocrats.org/-
http://my.barackobama.com/page/s/higotc-
---

Wisconsin primary-
Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Any voter in line at 8:00 p.m. must be permitted to vote.
Wisconsin has same day registration. First time voters, or voters registering on election day must present proof of residence showing that you have lived at your present location for at least 10 days preceding the election. Proof of residence includes: a current and valid Wisconsin driver's license, Wisconsin ID card, College ID with Photo, utility bill, paycheck, or other government document.
To register at the polls, bring a piece of official mail sent to you at your current voting address.

http://www.wisdems.org/-
http://elections.state.wi.us/faq_detail.asp?faqid=119&fid=27&locid47&linkid
---

Washington state PRIMARY(relevant to 2nd link below)-
(info and video)-
http://www.wa-democrats.org/caucusinfo-
http://slog.thestranger.com/2008/02/re_primary_pushing

Obama on guns, NIU violence

No Obama 08 — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:43:42 GMT

Mr. Obama can you please tell me what will you do, if for some strange reason you get the nomination, when you dont have the media, the press and the shady Republicans backing you when you have to go up against McCain? You will see how it feels to be THE CENTER OF ATTACK. Get ready for the Republican's attack train because it is COMING YOUR WAY.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Rick Tullman, Rochester NY — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:44:11 GMT

We finally get a glimpse of how Obama thinks. What he is saying is that the amendments are the law, until someone in the legislator thinks differently. He's saying that people have rights, until a politician decides to take them away from you, all under the cloak of "common-sense". Spoken like a true liberal who believes he/she knows better then anyone else.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Marbw — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:45:05 GMT

**** March 4:
Ohio primary
Ohio polling places are open 6:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.*
*If you are still standing in line at your polling location at 7:30 p.m., poll workers must give you the opportunity to vote! Ohio law requires all voters to take identification to the polls.

http://www.sos.state.oh.us/sos/yvc/main/faqs.htm">http://www.sos.state.oh.us/sos/yvc/main/faqs.htm
http://www.sos.state.oh.us/
http://www.ohiodems.org/site/c.mhLRKZPCLmF/b.3751973/
-

Rhode Island primary
http://www.sec.state.ri.us/elections
http://www.ridemocrats.org/
-

Texas
Polls are open 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. -
http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/index.shtml
http://www.txdemocrats.org/

Obama on guns, NIU violence

santa monica — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:45:41 GMT

Hillery offers solutions for the problems of the country, where she cann't offer any for her campaign problems.
she insists on having Dibaits because she dosn't have money to pay for ads.
She seams not to be able to contrul her staff. should we belive that she can do so when she is a presedent.
She is being incapable in the past why should we belive that she will do better in the feuture.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Marbw — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:46:02 GMT

**** March 4:

Vermont
Deadline to register for voting in the 2008 presidential primary is February 27, 2008 @ 5:00 p.m. http://vermont-elections.org/soshome.htm
http://www.vtdemocrats.org/

Obama on guns, NIU violence

JK,NV — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:46:14 GMT

Obama on guns, NIU violence

2nd Amendment Liberal — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:46:52 GMT

Personally, considering the Constitutional crimes being committed daily, I don't understand why every liberal isn't a gun owner. The right wingers only shoot at defenseless animals (and occasionally hit some skank GOP lawyer, but not often enough to be a help).

Obama on guns, NIU violence

THE CHEESE HEADS OF WISCONSIN — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:46:55 GMT

THE WISCONSIN DEBATE WILL HAPPEN ! YES ! YES ! YES !

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Bobbie Taylor, Sarasota, FL — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:47:23 GMT

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Marbw — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:47:56 GMT

**** March 8:
Wyoming (D)
the deadline for the Democratic caucus is February 22, 2008. Qualified voters can also register at the polls on Election Day in Wyoming.
You need to be registered as a Democrat in your county by Feb. 22 in order to participate in the March 8 caucuses,” Luckett said.
He added that Independents who would like to participate must register as Democrats, since Wyoming does not have open caucuses like some other states.

http://soswy.state.wy.us/election/election.htm
http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/wyhome

**** March 11:
Mississippi primary

http://www.sos.state.ms.us/elections/elections.asp
http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/mshome

**** April 22:
Pennsylvania
March 24, 2008 is the last day to register before the Pennsylvania presidential primary. (30 days before the primary) http://www.dos.state.pa.us/bcel/site/default.asp
http://www.padems.com/
http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/pahome

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Nicholas: Minnesota — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:48:03 GMT

Cool, thank you C.K. Steele for that information.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Marbw — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:49:28 GMT

**** May 6:
Indiana
April 7, 2008 is the last day to register to vote before the primary. (29 days before the election)
http://www.in.gov/sos/elections/

North Carolina
The deadline to register to vote in this State is 25 days before the day of the election.
http://www.sboe.state.nc.us/

• May 13:
WEST VIRGINIA
April 22, 2008 : Last Day to Register to Vote in the Primary Election.
has a closed primary -- meaning you may only vote the ballot of the party in which you are registered, although some parties allow no party affiliates to vote their ballots. A party change must be filed by the close of registration (21 days) before a primary election for you to be eligible to vote the new party's ballot in the primary.

http://www.wvsos.com/elections/voters/partyregistration.htm">http://www.wvsos.com/elections/voters/partyregistration.htm
http://www.wvsos.com/elections/
http://www.wvdemocrats.com/calendar.php

• May 20:

KENTUCKY
April 22, 2008 is the last day to register for the primary. (29 days before the election
Polls open 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Kentucky has closed party primary elections.You must register as a Democrat to vote in that party's May primary election.
Q: Do I have to produce Identification to vote? A: All voters must produce identification or be known by a precinct officer prior to voting. KRS117.227 and 31 KAR 4:010 provide the types of ID that can be used by the voter such as: Personal acquaintance of precinct officer, Driver’s license, Social Security card, credit card, or another form of ID containing both picture and signature.
http://www.elect.ky.gov/registrationinfo/infoguide.htm
http://sos.ky.gov/

OREGON
April 29 voter registration deadline

http://www.sos.state.or.us/elections/

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Unemployed Soldier (if Hillary is elected) — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:49:48 GMT

I must say, I hope that we get a Democrat President in 08. Voters on both sides are convinced that either Obama or Clinton is the next great thing to happen to this country, and it's going to be HILARIOUS when the following events take place because of failed Democrat leadership, and we'll get to watch Obama or Hillary supporters try to defend their candidate.

1) An abrupt and careless Iraq withdraw sparks a chain of Islamic in-fighting and Shia/Sunni wars that makes the Iraq War look like a picnic.

(My favorite part of this one is where al-Qaeda stops trying to kill Marines and Soldiers who are right next door and starts focusing on the American continent again. You stupid, STUPID anti-war liberals have NO idea what you're talking about, and NO idea who our enemy is.)

2) Taking ever more away from the middle class to patronize blue collars and watching the next generation growing up with EVEN FEWER values.

3) Gun control laws permit only criminals to possess firearms and law enforcement officers can only carry wiffle bats to prevent brutality.

4) The economy continues to fall apart because everyone deserves the right to come to America no matter where they are from or how legal they are.

I can't wait to see what people who say "Vote for Hope" and "Make the Smart Vote" have to say when that happens, but don't worry. They'll find a way to blame it on Bush.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

victor channel, sf ca — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:50:19 GMT

a liberal knows very little about what is common, and has no sense. so how can obama talk about common sense?

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Marbw — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:51:35 GMT

Over 800 bills sponsored in Illinois
http://www.nytimes.com/imagepages/2007/07/29/us/politics/20070730_OBAMA_GRAPHIC.html

http://www.barackobama.com/factcheck/category/

IRAN
http://thinkonthesethings.wordpress.com/2007/10/11/did-obama-skip-the-iran-vote/

PRESENT(100+ out of 4000 votes cast)
http://progressivegovernment.blogspot.com/2007/12/from-anne-and-women-for-obama.html
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A ‘present’ for Obama’s opponents? Probably not
http://www.thecarpetbaggerreport.com/archives/13989.html
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'Present' votes defended by Ill. lawmakers

In most legislatures, lawmakers vote either “yes” or “no” on bills, but in Illinois, senators and representatives can hit a third button for a “present” vote. Now that quirk — not unique to Illinois — has sparked heated exchanges among Democrats vying for president.

The Land of Lincoln isn’t the only state where lawmakers can register their displeasure without actually voting against a bill. Colorado, Delaware, Massachusetts, Missouri and Texas also allow “present” votes or similar options in at least one chamber, according to a recent review of chamber rules by the National Conference of State Legislatures.

In Hawaii, where Obama grew up, legislators can cast a “kanalua” (a Hawaiian word meaning “doubt”) vote during roll calls, essentially a pass. But after going through the roll call two or three times, depending on the chamber, the “kanalua” vote eventually counts as a “yes.”

In Illinois, the “present” vote works as a vote against a measure during final action.

http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=274863

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Rona Bledsoe, Chicago, IL (for now) — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:56:11 GMT

Obama is more 2 faced than any other politician. Be careful of the person that rises from nothing in such a small amt of time to presidential candidate. I can bet something much more controlling is pulling those strings...Too many will fall for his rhetoric

Also, if he really supported the 2nd amendment, he would have signed the Amicus Brief that Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) started and sent to the Supreme Court for the upcoming 2A arguments.

I read comments about regulating ammunition and what a problem to have all students be armed...

If Colleges werent so anti-gun, Virginia Tech and NIU wouldnt have had so many deaths. a Concealed carry permit is not given to anyone who asks.

Regulating ammunition is another way to not take guns away but make them too expensive to use for the average law abiding citizen.

Does anyone actually think criminals would buy regulated ammo? Any more than they buy legal guns? If the avg citizen isnt allowed to protect himself, who will? the police? As god as they may be, they cant be in a home or in a dark street when some punk with a knife decides he wants your wallet, watch, life, whatever....

Don't be fooled; Obama would be all for a national handgun ban

Obama on guns, NIU violence

scared — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:56:16 GMT

My rose-colored glasses are born so would some of you share what you're smoking? Oh my goodness. He gave a non-answer and yet people are writing in this forum that he took opinions of both sides and found resolution. The man said he knew what each side was saying. He didn't bring anybody together. He avoided the answer. Oh, I guess he didn't two minutes to tell his secretary to give him the paper to read the answer! Obama's going to look funny in his costume with a halo and a big red S on his chest because that's how people are painting him. We're going to be in so much trouble. The man has already said he would rely on others to make decisions. Things will be so bogged down in committees that nothing will ever get accomplished. May God have mercy on us.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Barbara C., Pompano Beach, FL — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 19:56:55 GMT

This country will be arguing "gun issues" long after we are all dead. So..if I comment on my side of the issue, it will have no effect.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

squintz, philly, pa — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:14:07 GMT

scared - your rose colored glasses are born? He not only ANSWERED THE QUESTION, he offered up A POTENTIAL STARTING POINT FOR RESOLUTION. Learn to read.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Russ Kansas City — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:15:29 GMT

victor channel as libiral I find your bubbling offensive. If I was a conserative with the same view I would of course just work to take away your right of free speech (or perhaps torture you for them). Aren't you happy it is the librials that protect the rights of you babbling idiots. By the way if you would open you mind as much as your mouth you might learn something about people running for office. Oh I forgot you do not need to learn. You already know it all Rush told you everything you need to know. Senetor Obama has the same rights as you, to speak his mind. Must upset you to know end to know more people listen to him.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

discharged, and glad — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:18:37 GMT

"Unemployed Soldier (if Hillary is elected) "

Dumbest thing I've ever seen posted. What a shame if you were unemployed. After your post, I'm thinking of voting McCain, so you can stay busy hauling a 90lb pack across Iran. Don't whine if you get into trouble - you wanted the job.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

James G., Oak Park, MI — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:19:29 GMT

I for one as a "Gun Nut" Think that what he's saying about so called Tracable Bullets is just plain stupid!!! What would stop someone from going to a gun range,Picking up some spent cartriges & Leaving them at the scene of the crime.People Kill People not Guns,Guns are a tool.If someone kills someone with a Hammer,Should we be able to trace the hammer? See,Just Dumb...Go McCain!!!
JK,NV (Sent Friday, February 15, 2008 2:46 PM)

You can't be that much of a gun nut if you don't know that the firing pin and barrel place specific trace lines on bullets when it travels through, that makes it possible to trace rounds to the specific gun that shot it. All placing rounds would do is add an additional charge of falsifying evidence to whomever is charged. We HAVE the technology. We just have to ensure that it's being utilized.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

James G., Oak Park, MI — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:22:29 GMT

So Obama believes in "common sense" in how to handle amendments. It would be interesting if a city, or a state, decided to ban abortions in the interest of "common sense". You'd see liberal judges at every level throwing out that legislation.
Bobbie Taylor, Sarasota, FL (Sent Friday, February 15, 2008 2:47 PM)

That couldn't come to pass, because where the Federal statute and State & Local statute contradict each other, the Federal Statute is the recognized law. Thereby making the "Local statute" in your example, unconstitutional.

Don't be afraid of common sense solutions. Sometimes, they are the best solutions available. :-)

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Blaine — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:24:46 GMT

Yo Hillary, you've lost 8 primaries/caucuses since February 5th. How about you and the people of this great country debate whether or not you should drop out of the race or continue this string of embarassing defeats. Deal?

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Jeff, Portland, OR — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:27:32 GMT

Unemployed Soldier (if Hillary is elected)

You really need to open your ears and listen what people say instead of what you want to hear.

1) Stay in Iraq as long as you want...just stop committing my tax dollars to an unnecessary war in Iraq that only goes to Bush supporters (Halliburton, Blackwater) when they real threat to America is in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Read the intelligence reports. Al-Qaeda is very small in Iraq.

2)What have they proposed that would take away from the middle class? The middle class is getting paid less while energy prices, health, and education costs go up. I think that is the real problem for the middle class. The democratic candidates actually have solutions that are aimed at helping the middle class. Taxes cuts for the wealthy haven't solved any of the our problems.

3) No one is going to ban all your guns. Hardly an issue for most Americans.

4)Illegal immigration is a problem but it's hardly the cause of our struggling economy.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Ian — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:31:22 GMT

Mike in Hermosa Beach:

Another "gun free zone" slaughter. Cesare, marchese di Beccaria-Bonesana correctly said in his 1764 On Crimes and Punishment:

"Laws that forbid the carrying of arms... disarm only those who are neither inclined nor determined to commit crimes... Such laws make things worse for the assaulted and better for the assailants; they serve rather to encourage than to prevent homicides, for an unarmed man may be attacked with greater confidence than an armed man."

A Pro-NRA quote from the 18th century is hardly a convincing argument to be applied to the incident at NIU. Considering the gunman essentially took his victims by surprise, how would an armed group of students be any more able to prevent this from happening? Why isn't it obvious that the odds for even more fatalities increases to students caught in the cross-fire as a consequence of a volly of return fire?
Further and more importantly, why should a person have carry a weapon? Why should that person have to be in fear for his or her life in a nation that considers itself to be civilized, especially at an institution of higher learning for God's sakes?
The pro-gun lobby hates all gun laws. They absolutely refuse to even allow that a connection might exist between gun deaths and the so-called right afforded by the most abused and arcane of constitutional amendments. Exactly what militia was this guy raising?

I've noticed that gun lobbiests rarely, if ever, express any real remorse after these instances take place, preferring either to go into hiding or to lecture us all on why it's our fault, in the first place, that this was allowed to happen.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Ian M. SF, CA — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:31:36 GMT

Re: Anti Reaganess Big Talkers, Columbus Georgia.

I think that Obama's response to the question on gun control is constitutionally correct. As you should have read, he says that it is in fact, not up to the federal goverment, as a whole, to enact gun control laws, but is, rather, up to the local municipalities (cities/counties).

When he was in the state legislature, it would have been perfectly constitutional for him to back gun control laws for his local municipality. But now that he is running for President (Federal), it is no longer consitutional for him to back gun control laws, because it is not up to the federal government to decide, rather the states and local municipalities.

Understand the difference?

Obama on guns, NIU violence

C.K. Steele Fort Lauderdale, FL — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:42:54 GMT

You can't be that much of a gun nut if you don't know that the firing pin and barrel place specific trace lines on bullets when it travels through, that makes it possible to trace rounds to the specific gun that shot it.
James G., Oak Park, MI (Sent Friday, February 15, 2008 3:19 PM)

Thank you very much James for exposing that so-called gun-nut before I got to him. I don't understand how some Republicans think that they have total ownership of certain issues (2nd amendment, religion, illegal wars, etc.) and that these types of issues are not thought about by Democrats as well. It usually ends up that these so-called experts are just imposters trying to create false hysteria, fear, and ignorance.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Gerald C, Madison, WI — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:48:03 GMT

I'm surprised at the lack of reaction from the Obama campaign at the NIU shootings. Obama is in Wisconsin. Surely a visit to Dekalb, Ill. isn't completely out of the question. A call or two? A press release? An official statement? Where is the remorse, other than the snippit in this article, that a Senator should have when a tragedy like this happens in his home state. I suppose the campaign trail has him a little distracted.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:48:22 GMT

What we need is a better way to deal with people who want to buy weapons; remember that the sole purpose of guns are to kill. We need greater enforcement of the existing rules as well as new rules that restrict people who have been committed to mental institutions (voluntary or otherwise) from buying a weapons.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

bret, from that liberal town of seattle, washington state obama oh-eight — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:51:05 GMT

i personally think gun ownership has lost its usefulness in the 21st century, but there is this whole subculture of people packed into rural counties, the midwest, and choice suburbs (not considering the gangbangers, they don't have lobbying power, much less a high school diploma - guns or books? jesus christ how can some of you choose guns?!) who like to prove their masculinity with the thought that, yes, they can kill someone. anyways, guns are different scaled problems to different regions, and common sense gun control is not something i've heard in a while. obama really is the logical choice - unless you're a bigot.

its fun to see some riled up republicans spouting their neo-con, nationalist pride-based anger into coherent sentences. and i thought you all spoke hybrid dialects of leatherface and ed gein. you know, dubya bush speak.

"Our enemies are innovative and resourceful, and so are we. They never stop thinking about new ways to harm our country and our people, and neither do we." - Our President (!)

Obama on guns, NIU violence

David Hellmann, Chicago, IL — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:52:54 GMT

"If someone kills someone with a Hammer,Should we be able to trace the hammer? See,Just Dumb...Go McCain!!! "

If hammers caused over 75,000 US Deaths per year, maybe we should think about regulating them. But as a gun nut you seem to forget that this law was written to protect colonists from British soldiers unlawfully taking their property...and it was written into law to give colonists the write to own muskets. So if you would like to continue your literal interpretation, give up your hand guns and go buy a musket. Oh, by the way, get a new "sport."

The 2nd ammendment is the only ammendment that leads to the death of others. Even the 1st amendment is not absolute...see Supreme Court Cases that do not allow free speech if the speech provokes a riot or other violence...i.e. you can't yell fire in a movie theatre. If the first amendment is not absolute, why should we the second amendment be absolute and fail to adopt with the times!!!

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Carol Lowe, Notasulga, Ala. 36866 — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 20:56:55 GMT

Why Would Obama not wear a Aamerican Flag Pin, or
put his hand on the bible to be sworn is as Pressident?
When will the American people wake up? Does that
seem AMERICAN to you?
I don't care for Mrs. Clinton either! She has never been a middle class working woman. She just wants to spend the money WE make and give it to people who CHOSE not to work.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Marty CR Iowa — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 21:01:44 GMT

The food on my table in the 30ts and 40ts came from my dad and 3 brothers hunting, then those brothers went off to fight in WW2, only 1 came home. I have a hand gun and I am 77, it is for my sole protection. It is very difficult to hunt today with all the regulations and urban sprawl. I miss my fried rabbit, roast pheasant, venison, duck, quail. Let another 9/11 happen and you will all be glad to have those guns. God forbid that anyone would attempt to remove my right to bare arms, then the criminals would be in charge. I have a very hard time listening to pretty speechs about "change" when what we need is action, from experience, integrity and honesty. Straight Talk. Our prisons are loaded with murderers, thiefs and rapists from what race?, One walks free because he got off from killing 2 people, because of his race. Look to the facts and see who needs to be denied access to guns.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Michael Bacon — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 21:03:39 GMT

I wish the Clinton and Obama supporters would quit sniping at each other and trashing the two candidates. They are both honorable people in my estimation. I will support either enthusiastically against the republican in November. The prise is the Presidency and we need to be united in order to win.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Dave, Missouri — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 21:06:24 GMT

To JK,NV: Yeah It's possible to take someone's spent rounds from a range and commit a crime with them. So, you're right, the bullet tracing idea may not work except for maybe crimes that just happen in the heat of the moment where there is no premeditation. That being said, your logic for the "hammer" is faulty.

Quote: "People Kill People not Guns,Guns are a tool.If someone kills someone with a Hammer,Should we be able to trace the hammer?"

I think that you are overlooking that there is a serious problem with gun related crimes in America. In 2005 there were 11,624 firearm homicides. If there were a sizeable amount of hammer crimes in America then people may need to start paying attention to that. But we are talking about 2 very different things. A hammer would take a whole lot more forethought and physical ability to kill someone with. For that matter, anyone able to commit a murder with a hammer could grab a screwdriver or some other various tool to accomplish the same task. A gun can be touted by any moron as their tool of homicide. It doesn't take skill to aim a shotgun at someone and end their life. Furthermore, assault rifles (automaic weapons) can be used in such a "pray and spray" way that if you have enough rounds you can take out a heard of people. No hammer is capable of that.

Obama's statement:

"We essentially have two realities, when it comes to guns, in this country. You've got the tradition of lawful gun ownership. It is very important for many Americans to be able to hunt, fish, take their kids out, teach them how to shoot. Then you've got the reality of 34 Chicago public school students who get shot down on the streets of Chicago. We can reconcile those two realities by making sure the Second Amendment is respected and that people are able to lawfully own guns, but that we also start cracking down on the kinds of abuses of firearms that we see on the streets."

That's probably the most relevamt statement that I've heard any politician say about the topic at all. I didn't hear him say that he was going to take away all of our guns. From the looks of it, he would only be interested in removing guns from the hands of people who have or would do harm on another person.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Draconiz,Newark,DE — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 21:08:04 GMT

Obama put his hand on the Bible and the patriotism issue has been played to death, Flag pins don't make you more patriotic! Jeeez people really need to pass some knowledge test before they get to vote.

The guy is a politician and none of that bunch is clean, not Clinton, not Mccain. However, I want a President who respects the Constitution and use logic and reason in his decisions.

This is a Country with different opinion and that's good, we need liberals to remind the conservatives not to become the enemies we are trying to fight. And we need conservatives to remind liberals not to forget their roots.

Obama seems to be the guy who can bring reasonable (reasonable) people to the common ground, and that's why I support him.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Ian — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 21:10:22 GMT

Marty CR Iowa:

Uh... The gunman was white.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Bobbie Taylor, Sarasota, FL — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 21:13:11 GMT

That couldn't come to pass, because where the Federal statute and State & Local statute contradict each other, the Federal Statute is the recognized law. Thereby making the "Local statute" in your example, unconstitutional.

Don't be afraid of common sense solutions. Sometimes, they are the best solutions available. :-)

James G., Oak Park, MI

So then explain the gun ban laws in many of our cities, including Washington DC and Chicago. By your defintition, they are unconstitutional. If if that's what your saying, then I agree.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Ian — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 21:14:08 GMT

What did Pres. Bush say about the incident at NIU? Well, all he could do is offer up a few prayers and blessings. That pretty much sums up the official NRA position: carry and pray.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Dave, Missouri — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 21:26:47 GMT

Marty CR Iowa:

Do yourself a favor. You are old and probably retired. You are a biggot and probably can't be taught otherwise. Enjoy your retirement. Quit worrying about the country. It's time for the next generation to take the reigns from people like you. Newsflash: The Civil War is over - The North Won. Slaves are now free to live how they want and where they want. They can even run for president. The service of your family is greatly appreciated. I'll respect my elders by not saying anything profane.

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Will, Atlanta, GA — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 21:28:42 GMT

We need to demand of our representatives a firm stand on gun control!

My question to them would be,"how does, in your view, 2nd amendment gun ownership support the basis of our Constitution stated in our Preamble" ie;

We the People of the United states, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the general welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves, and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United states of America.

Amendment II.
A well regulated Militia, being necessary for the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.

(... I always thought the framers left out the object of the first phrase -

otherwise it should read, "In order to have a well regulated militia our militiamen need to be able to keep 3 automatic weapons,2 sawed off shotguns and at least 3 Glochs all necessary for the security of a free State". OR to hunt squirrels for your pop-corn popper!

Obama on guns, NIU violence

Debalazo, LV, NV — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 17:46:16 GMT

Open your eyes to reality. What are the chances these nuts can get inside a college with a shotgun?? Awake already? Besides, cameras usually pick these nuts without guns, suddenly they start shooting. Someone gives them these guns inside. Ever heard of MK Ultra zombies? READ and learn. And open your eyes once more: Most of these nut job murders are by Jews. Yup, check the net, they are psychotic, drug using, medical cases, many were shortly trained in the Army. Connect dots. Ban guns? Try these Jew nuts. The Second Amendment stands, for protection from Government, nothing else. No fool would dare attack the US, only the rogues inside, sanctioned by... the rogues inside.