Obama defends 'liberal' label

Gary Stevens, Big Bluff AR — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:37:32 GMT

Obama is a liberal. Expect your taxes to double if he's President.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

HP Boston — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:43:33 GMT

OBAMA ON THE ATTACK! OBAMA THE VALIANT FRONTRUNNER!
OBAMA DEFENDEDING HIS WORDS! OBAMA SPEWING HOT AIR INTO THE FRAGRANT NIGHT SKY. OBAMA WAXING POETIC WITH HIS WORSHIPERS AT HIS FEET. GET YOUR KOOL AIDE HERE!
OBAMA SO HIGH IN THE POLLS HE CAN SEE JESUS FROM UP There!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

HP Boston — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:45:18 GMT

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Gregory Peek, Birmingham, Alabama — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:52:55 GMT

The Clinton campaign has a way of playing games with history. Both Clintons have given President Johnson credit for signing the 1964 Civil Rights Act, to dispute the relationship between accomplishments and inspirational speakers. What they failed to mention was that the same Civil Rights Act was actually introduced by President Kennedy in 1963 after he was inspired by the leadership of Martin Luther King Jr., Fred Shuttlesworth and others here in Birmingham. It was President Kennedy's exceptional leadership qualities that allowed him to take what was, at time, a bold initiative. Barack Obama has those same leadership qualities. He can as others can not.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Janice,Modesto,CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:56:27 GMT

Ha, and his wife loves you too. Hot off FOX

http://youdecide08.foxnews.com/2008/02/23/michelle-obamas-princeton-thesis-reveals-doubts-about-her-own-integration/

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Rep0X — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:58:05 GMT

Fired Up!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Melissa, NYC — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:02:42 GMT

Here's a post by Grassroots Mom on how she made an informed decision to vote for Obama, by studying what the candidates accomplished in the Senate last year.
I Refuse to Buy into the Obama Hype (now a supporter)
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/2/20/201332/807/36/458633

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Pee Vee — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:07:12 GMT

Liberal, not liberal, who cars!! Most important is experience or not experienced! This world is too fragile with too much anti-american sentiment. You cannot trust an inexperienced person such as Obama to handle foreign affairs. We are already starting to lose our strongest allie against Terrorism, Britian, because of the possibility of Obama getting nominated. He might help the economy, might help healthcare, but his foreign policy inexperience is going to fuel the Islamic extremists to attack us again with even more force than 9/11. The war on Terrorism and victory in Iraq needs to be put back on the front burner or America is going to be more vulnerable then ever.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Rusty, OKC — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:09:29 GMT

All you fools who have drunk the kool-aid will now be gladly handing the presidency to McCain. Thanks to you all.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Gregory Peek, Birmingham, Alabama — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:10:46 GMT

Playing Latinos and African-Americans against each other, a scheme where every one looses, is part of the cynical politics of the past, which Barack Obama has come forward to replace.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

JoAnn McCoy 10420 Hwy 1078N Henderson — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:13:02 GMT

Why should I vote for Obama?

Sirs: It is not enough for me to see Obama on stage with his millions of adoring fans I want to know what he has done on the following so that myself and others should know why we should vote for him:

1. What has he accomplished in aide for farmers in the states of Illinois and Kentucky?

2. What if any is his stance on the elderly?

3. What have been his major accomplishments in the senate when it is reported he “took a walk” 134 times for major votes?

4. What is his belief on the welfare programs?

5. What are his credentials for Commander in Chief and what is his experience in foreign policy?

6. Where does he stand on the sex offender reform in regards to letting non violent offenders has a second chance in life?

7. What are his plans for the major unrest in Iraq when the troops are pulled out? What type of assistance does he foresee for the people left behind?

8. Please be specific as to what is the “Change” he is telling everyone he will bring about as I can find nothing specific as to what it is.

9. In his plan to “meet with our enemies” what specifically does he plan to do and how does he plan to accomplish this?

10. What are his views on Medicare, social security?

11. How does he plan to turn around the economy? His plans seems to do nothing but raise taxes up sky high.

12. In his flip flop answers he ahs stated he does not have a universal health care plan and then when he went to Texas he all of a sudden does have a universal health care plan so is his health care plan universal or isn’t it? His answers to this are unclear.

13. Specifically what has he done for the people of Illinois as I have heard many black people complain that he has done nothing for them at all.

14. What plans does he have to stop out sourcing our companies? It was reported in Youngstown that he came and gave empty words, did nothing to stop the our sourcing of jobs from Maytag and left the people full of false hope. Does he have any kind of record that stops out sourcing of jobs from anything he has done previously?

15. He stated in his debate with Senator Clinton that our troops have no guns, no ammo and had to get weapons from downed Taliban fighters to fight the war, what would he do about situations like this? Would he be willing to go out there and check on this report? What has he done for the soldiers to date, what is his record with them or bills and legislation he has drafted and passed to assist them?

16. Why is refusing to give the people of Florida and Michigan their delegates? Are we not 50 states and not 48? Does he feel it is right to leave out 2 million voters? Why is he against letting their votes stand and be heard?

17. What actually is his patriotic belief when it is reported that he salutes the flag sometimes? As commander in Chief would he carry on this tradition with our troops and salute the flag when he feels like it?

18. What does he believe about the deficit? What are his plans for reduction of it? About turning around the economy?

19. Where does he stand on children’s education?

20. What is his stand on international trade and specifically the Mexican trade?

These are just a few of the questions but over debate after debate he has never specifically addressed any of them. He always says what Clinton says, ok so where does HE stand?

Sincerely

JoAnne

Obama defends 'liberal' label

carolyn — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:13:27 GMT

Obama, will have to deliver one day, and hpoe and change has nothing to do with knowledge.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

substance — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:16:05 GMT

Check this out:

http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/2/20/201332/807/36/458633

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Phil, Fort Worth, TX — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:16:10 GMT

"And ya know what? Well they make fun of you all too by the way,” Obama said. “They make fun of you guys. They say, ‘All these people who are following Obama they're delusional. They just like pretty words, they don't really understand what's going on.’ Lets get real.”

We aren't making "fun", we are dead serious when we say they are delusional.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

John in la — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:17:02 GMT

Obama, give it up already!!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Cobalt Fiftynine, San Diego, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:17:19 GMT

I absolutely *love* how Obama can square up to his opponents and confront their lies and distortions, as in this article. Adjectives like "liberal" and "secular" have been turned into pejoratives, and it's great to see Obama reject that and embrace ideas, rather than labels. Same with the lapel pin flag dust-up... the unhelpful distraction is to focus on the symbol; Obama focuses on the thing symbolized. Yay, Barack!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Richard Anderson — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:17:52 GMT

1. I have read in which several posters pretended to be fact checking. They tell you to "check your fact" but they themselves do not include their sources. Be careful folks because these people may be utilizing propaganda (see "Leigh" (Sent Friday, February 22, 2008 at 3:09) for illustration; notice this comment poster FALSEY claims that Muslim Americans are helping fund Obama's campaign, while asking readers to do fact chcking)
2. If you truly care to get candidates' legislative records, please go to thomas.loc.gov or www.votesmart.org (enter your candidate's name). PLEASE BE MINDFUL of propaganda on the web; so when you see a supporter of a particular candidate posting his/her candidate's legislative and other records WITHOUT the source(s) or including the other candidate's record(s), this is BIAS (see "Laura," Sammamish WA (Sent Friday, February 22, 2008 at 3:22 PM); notice the record is posted in a manner consistent with biased reporting). What you get is a record that is either distorted or certain portions are OMITTED to incite voter feelings/perceptions. DO NOT TRUST THESE PEOPLE AS RELIABLE SOURCES.
3. If you are unsure whether the information you read from various posters is true in the absence of sources, do a "reality check" by Googling at www.google.com or, more appropriately, visit www.snopes.com, www.factcheck.org, r www.mediamatters.org. If you trust the comments of others with no sources to back up their claims, YOU ARE BLINDLY ACCEPTING THEIR PROPAGANDA, and this will do disgrace to America and only helps promote IGNORANCE and INTOLERANCE.
4. I urge voters to refuse BIAS, IGNORANCE, and HATRED to influence and intimidate them into choosing a particular candidate. Follow your heart, not the mind of a zealot. Logic always prevails over incited emotions.
Now let me clarify several common misconceptions about either Hillary or Obama I am hearing on First Read and other blogs:
1. The implication that Obama said Latinos have "taken away African Americans' jobs" is FALSE (Hillary is the one who implied that Latinos/immigrants took African Americans jobs away). The transcript of the Los Angels debate can be found at http://www.californiaprogressreport.com/2008/02/transcript_of_d.html .
2. It is difficult to comprehend why people continue to argue Obama is inexperienced in comparison to Hillary. I am labeling this "propaganda". Look at Hillary's "35 years of experience" claim at http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=18391632 to give yourself a look at her "35 years experience". In reality, Hillary only has 7 years of experience in public office (the argument that her 15 years as a corporate lawyer and First Lady title in Arkansas and as former president Bill Clinton's wife should count is absurd).
To look at Obama's record in elective office, go to http://www.votesmart.org/bio.php?can_id=9490 . Notice that he has a total of 12 years in public office (in Illinios as a state senator and as a U.S. Senator). NOTE: You can enter Hillary's (or John McCain's) name at that same site and click on "Biographical" link.
3. I cannot fathom why people continue to spread malacious lies regarding Obama's background (that he is "Muslim"or a "fraud") other than to say that such people leveling these allegations are clearly bigoted and are attempting to play the politics of fear as part of their propaganda campaign.
For a list of debunked/false allegations against Sen. Barack Obama, visit http://www.snopes.com/politics/obama/muslim.asp or http://www.factcheck.org/elections-2008/sliming_obama.html . You can also go to http://www.pbs.org/now/shows/401/political-smears.html for a background on the anti-Obama smear campaign.
NOTE: You can research on anti-Hillary or anti-McCain rumors, but what you get is far fewer debunked allegations than the serious and hateful accusations against Obama.
4. On health care, I have previously stated that neither Oama's nor Hillary's plans will cover EVERYONE but attempt to significantly improve our health care system. Please give yourself a look on this issue at http://www.factcheck.org/clinton_vs_obama.html . Also, read the following article http://www.newsweek.com/id/111811 .

To fellow readers:
Please do not claim to be checking your facts! Please wise up and help educate our generation and the generations to come. To create a truly democratic and united, not divided, world, please HELP CONQUER IGNORANCE, ILLITERACY, AND PREJUDICE. If we truly love our country and believe in our abilities to create a harmonious and compassionate United States and a global community of peoples of all cultures coexisting peacefully, we have to stop spreading ignorance and hatred.

To bigots:
Turn off your propaganda machine! Take your hopeless messages of bigotry and intolerance elsewhere and leave MSNBC ALONE! Unless you cannot cease spreading false, vicious rumors or promoting a culture of ignorance and injustice, you may want to form your own forum or join the Nationalist/Nazi Movement. I am sure your cause(s) will only be taken up by insane and heartless individuals with no confidence in themselves and their country(ies).

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Bryan King, North Carolina — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:18:34 GMT

Since when did the term "liberal" become a four letter word?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Don DeVore, Idaho Springs, CO — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:19:28 GMT

Electing Obama will be the most profound positive feeling for the Earth since landing men on the moon. Oh, to be proud of our president, for the first time in too many moons.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

dcorbett — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:21:00 GMT

Since when was 'liberal' a bad word? It certainly need not be defended.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:21:31 GMT

Um,George Bush is anything but conservative. Please stop playing this game and bring truth and accuracy to your profession. Your opening paragraph suggests you might be better suited to writing for Hollywood, or perhaps all of this IS made up.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

David, Nyack, New York — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:22:32 GMT

For the last year or so I've been an Edwards supporter, but I gotta admit it: Obama is speaking loudly and clearly about issues that mean something. I am officially switching gears and going with Obama. Let's give him a real mandate for change, and vote in significant majorities in the House and Senate. GOBAMA 2008!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jason, WA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:23:59 GMT

HOPE = High on Populist Entitlements

Obama defends 'liberal' label

ming chan — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:24:00 GMT

Liberal is no good, when you make big
government, when you spoil the lazy
ones by just keep giving, by having
no judgements for public workers,
by not controlling medicaid......

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Andrew Fong, Union City, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:26:45 GMT

Since when did campaign posters = personality cult? Every candidate has posters with their face on them.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

anna perez Mill Valley Ca — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:28:35 GMT

a campaign needs three things: message, strategy and execution--I left out money because if you have message, strategy and execution the money will come. That's why Sen. Obama and his team have so far outstripped the Clintons, despite Sen. Clinton starting this campaign on the fifty yard line while Obama wasn't even in the stadium. Win, lose or draw, Sen. Obama's campaign will be one for the textbooks.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Karen Craig — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:29:02 GMT

I think it is ridiculous the way that people throw around the word liberal like it is an insult or an indicator of a soft person with little back bone and less brains.

The word liberal is defined as a person who is a reformer or progressive. What else could we possibly want or need in this country at this time???

Keep it up Obama! You are talking for the silent majority as well as the not so silent liberals. My parents are life long republicans and have become independant in the last 2 elections. Now they are voting dempcratic!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Suluhishi Heru, Arlington Texas — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:29:28 GMT

"I'm a Black guy named Barack Obama running for Pr president, you can't tell me I ain't tough,
shoot"
"we should never negotiate out of fear, but we
should never fear to negotiate"

I really feel this man is on the right track. Ch
ange and hope are the stuff dreams are made of
but we've been living through 7years of Bush-mare
s. Bring home the troops, take care of our healthcare issues and shut down the special interest groups
. For the people, by the people. That's where were headed with Barack Obama for President.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Karen Craig — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:30:08 GMT

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Marbw — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:31:02 GMT

McCain's wagon might be losing a few wheels lately. I really want Hillary Clinton to 'bow out' so we can start going 'full out' against the neocon party. As a Dem, the infighting is a distraction. I(Dems) am 'itching' to take on John McBush after this Dem thing is wrapped up(sooner rather than later).

Obama defends 'liberal' label

MorePleaseSir, Oliver — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:31:42 GMT

HOPE = Handing Out Populist Entitlements

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Doug, SP, WI — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:33:09 GMT

See web definitions for <a href="http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&defl=en&q=define:liberal&sa=X&oi=glossary_definition&ct=title"> liberal</a>, especially "(1) Used by Mises "in the sense attached to it everywhere in the nineteenth century and still today in the countries of continental Europe. ..."

Likely the American Continental Army during the Revolution were liberals in the European continental sense wanting to rid themselves of a king. British liberals had previously tried this but wound up with a Lord Protector in Cromwell. Conservatives at that time were known as Tories.

The GOP under Lincoln likely were liberals since they were abolitionists. Confederates [before Southern Democrats, now southern Republicans] were conservatives during that time.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Richard O'Brien — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:34:29 GMT

O Bomb-a, Liberal is communist by another name, Government Health Care is communist. O Bomb-a represents nothing in regards to freedom, liberty and justice. The foolish who support him, are supporting the very ones who will have their heads! O Bomb-a, Hell-ery and McCain each represent the end of freedom, liberty and justice and the America.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Mike Hunt — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:34:45 GMT

FIRST!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Bret Williams, Austin, TX — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:34:48 GMT

Being a conservative these days isn't a compliment either if you use Bush, Cheney, Bill Kristol or any of the other idealogues that have been dead wrong on oh-so-many issues. The demonizing that originates from right-wing radio trickles through to the moderate republicans echoing all the way down the line. Let's talk about issues, not labels.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

eli los angeles ,ca — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:36:25 GMT

it a shamefull act of your people that show bias against sen mccain and hillary itis beyond dignity and fairness,i stop watching you because your reporters almost all of them a bunch of liers and not atrue reporters.shame of you.
eli

Obama defends 'liberal' label

TEXAN — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:37:13 GMT

"CHANGE" IS A POLITICAL SLOGAN.
"HOPE" IS ANOTHER POLITICAL SLOGAN FOR THE HOPELESS.
"DREAM" IS A WORD FROM ANOTHER CIVIL RIGHTS LEADER-MLK-BACK IN 60'S WITH LBJ PRESIDENT.IT TOOK LBJ TO MAKE THE DREAM REALITY.
AS AN INDEPENDENT VOTER I"LL VOTE AGAIN REPUBLICAN.I DIDN'T WANT TO THIS TIME,BUT I DON'T HAVE A REAL CHOICE.THE DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES DO NOT INSPIRE ME.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

John Heckman, Schwenksville, Pa. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:37:22 GMT

I just recently changed my registration to Democrat so to be able to vote for Barak here in Pa. in April. I am a 68year old white male. I and my wife donated to the Obama campaign. This is only my second donation to a political campaign in my life. Yes We Can!!!!!!!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Phill Riley, Lake Wales, FL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:38:01 GMT

I do not want mandatory health care. I think the quality of coverage from both doctors and clinics and hospitals will suffer. I would rather the government control the prices so I can chose and pay. If you can't afford health insurance at a reduced rate then, it should be provided--that's why I support Obama. Besides the Clinton plan will never be approved by enough Republicans--like Obama said you have to have a plan that can make it into law; not just sound good. Remember, she tried it before when the Republicans said no, she never tried again. Besided, she doesn't have health care for the citizens of New York. He has it for the citizens of Illinois.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Robert L. Sergile — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:39:43 GMT

HOPE! we out it we are not a nation. We are American first than we are Black, Caucasian, or any ethnic group or religion second.
We should be American black or white or American African or Mexican.
we should not be African American, nor Black American, but American black.
Iam Proud to be first generation American Haitian.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Robert L. Sergile — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:40:38 GMT

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Sue, Chicago, IL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:42:49 GMT

I don't think the label "most liberal" means anything. The Republicans, though no longer technically the majority party, still seem to control the agenda and what gets passed. If the Democrats get something through over their objections, the President (who never vetoed anything in his first term) is quick to veto it. So how can anyone be "too liberal" in that environment?

I love the line about I'm a black guy named Barack Obama running for President. You can't tell me I ain't tough. Go, Barack, go!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Mary,Sonoma,CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:43:34 GMT

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Robert Carver, West Hempstead, NY — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:45:12 GMT

Precisely which "conservative" president from Texas is this article referring to? Surely not GWB. An out of control deficit, environmentally destructive policies and a fear/testosterone addled foreign policy are NOT the hallmarks of a conservative. Once more, the term "liberal" is to be admired, not vilified. After all it has been liberal policies that have made this nation the greatest in history. If anyone believes that a gigantic army, or great wealth made it so, you have not learned the lessons of history. Policies such as the New Deal (created the middle class), social security, medicare/medicaid, publicly funded education, clean air/water regulations are a short list of what set this country apart from others in history with great wealth and armed forces. Heck, if the conservatives had there way, we would not have fought the Revolutionary War (they wanted to stay loyal Brits). Starting with Reagan, so-called conservatives have converted this country from the leading importer of raw materials/exporter of finished goods and the leading creditor nation into the leading debtor nation. Thanks for nothing.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

kol kol, chicago,il — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:45:29 GMT

I am obama.....

Tell me what you want to listen?

100% satisfaction!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jeremy, Fontana, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:46:26 GMT

Obama's parallels of himself to JFK are a bit much. After all, JFK was a hawk on foreign policy who stood down Castro and Kruschev during the Cuban missile crisis (a naval blockade that included a young John McCain, by the way). JFK didn't prevail in that conflict by setting a timetable for withdrawal. And JFK was a tax-cutter too. The tax cuts he implemented as president were, as a percentage of the overall economy, actually much larger than the Bush tax cuts of 2002. One more note: Prior to submitting his candidacy for president to the American people, JFK had served for 12 years in the House and Senate with a long list of accomplishments to show for it, and prior to that had been a decorated war veteran who risked his life for the men under his command. Perhaps that doesn't take as much character as it does to go to high schools and brag to teenagers about one's youthfull cocaine use; but hey, these are different times we are living in, and the need for "change" appears to be great.

(P.S. Any chance you lefties at 'First Read' are going to let in a negative blurb about your lover-boy Obama any time this election year? Just wondering.)

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Louise Richardson — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:51:11 GMT

Since both candidates claim to be ready on day one, I would like to hear exactly what it is that they would do their first day in office. At the debate, it would truly help me make up my mind if the moderator could ask them what they would say in the first five minutes of a meeting with Raul Castro (Obama), or what specifically they would do on their first day in office.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Judy, San Jose, California — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:51:27 GMT

Barack Obama is an man very much grounded in reality (skim through his biography if you have any doubt), yet has an appeal that connects with the very best in each of us and power to galvanize to take action for a better tomorrow. For me that is great leadership.

For starters, look at the way he has run the campaign from the decidely POSITIVE DEBATES to his highly SUCCESSFUL FUNDRAISING strategies through grass roots ORGANIZATION BUILDING to PRUDENT SPENDING OF CAMPAIGN CASH to creating a groundswell of interest among a large number of voters who would otherwise be sitting in sidelines. And all this, from a man starting from nowhere and being a complete underdog.

Hillary is finally coming to terms with Barack's integrity, judgement, influence that is working across voting blocks, and most importantly his basic approach to solving complex problems.

The three most important issues that are of great interest to me are: Education, Healthare, and International relations. In each of these areas, Obama has fresh approaches that are far more likely to succeed:

- Barack's health care plans to address the root cause of current health care, which is to improve affordability.

- On education, teachers are most important partners in turning a highly educated and competive work-force of the 21st century. Obama's plan calls for rewarding teacher accomplishments.

- On War and peace, he is bold to explore smarter ways to engage troubled nations like Cuba and Iran through active, direct engagement and some humility.

Hillary is intelligent and knows her graceful exit and supporting a stronger candidate will do more good to the party. She can be a strong running mate and if that doesnt' work can be good policy advisor for Healthcare in Obama administration.

McCain has absolutely nothing new to offer and will be a piece of cake come November.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Steve T. Fort Collins, CO — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:51:30 GMT

Anybody who doesn't understand by now this guy is the Real Deal is just clueless.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Robert Carver, West Hempstead, NY — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:51:50 GMT

SLIGHT REVISION!!

Precisely which "conservative" president from Texas is this article referring to? Surely not GWB. An out of control deficit, environmentally destructive policies and a fear/testosterone addled foreign policy are NOT the hallmarks of a conservative. Once more, the term "liberal" is to be admired, not vilified. After all it has been liberal policies that have made this nation the greatest in history. If anyone believes that a gigantic army, or great wealth made it so, you have not learned the lessons of history. Policies such as the New Deal (created the middle class), social security, medicare/medicaid, publicly funded education, clean air/water regulations are a short list of what set this country apart from others in history with great wealth and armed forces. Heck, if the conservatives had there way, we would not have fought the Revolutionary War (they wanted to stay loyal Brits). Starting with Reagan, so-called conservatives have converted this country from the leading importer of raw materials/exporter of finished goods to just opposite. And they also switched the US from the leading creditor nation into the leading debtor nation. Thanks for nothing.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:52:53 GMT

Yes, We Can! Go Obama Go! Change We Can Believe in. Vote Hope. Dream comes true! Go Obama Go.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

John — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:54:04 GMT

The "shops" along the street do not have Obama signs in the windows. Not one of them. Obama's Texas campaign HQ is at 9th & Congress - right in front of last night's event - and they have those signs up in the windows of the 2nd floor of their building all along that block.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Judy, San Jose, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:58:33 GMT

Barack Obama is a man very much grounded in reality (skim through his life's story to dispel any doubts), yet has an appeal that connects with the very best in each of us and galvanize to take action for a better tomorrow. For me that is great leadership.

For starters, look at the way he has run the campaign from the decidely POSITIVE DEBATES to his highly SUCCESSFUL FUNDRAISING strategies by through grass roots ORGANIZATION BUILDING to PRUDENT SPENDING OF CAMPAIGN CASH to creating a groundswell of interest among a large number of voters who would otherwise be sitting in sidelines. And all this starting from nowhere and being a complete underdog.

Hillary is finally coming to terms with Barack's integrity, judgement, influence that is working across voting blocks, and most importantly his basic approach to solving complex problems.

The three most important issues that are of great interest to me are: Education, Healthare, and International relations. In each of these areas, Obama has fresh approaches that are far more likely to succeed:

- Barack's health care plans to address the root cause of current health care, which is to improve affordability.

- On education, teachers are most important partners in turning a highly educated and competive work-force of the 21st century. Obama's plan calls for rewarding teacher accomplishments.

- On War and peace, he is bold to explore smarter ways to engage troubled nations like Cuba and Iran through active, direct engagement and some humility.

Hillary is intelligent and knows her graceful exit and supporting a stronger candidate will do more good to the party.

McCain has absolutely nothing new to offer and will be a piece of cake come November.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

William C Simmer, Blue Springs, MO 64014 — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:59:57 GMT

I was shocked at Campbell Brown's final question to the candidates in the debate. It was asking about periods of trial in their lives. This clearly was a set=up question so that Hillary (very prepared with her answer) could capitalize on her husband's extra-marital affair. Make sure the next debate isn't led by a person who has ulterior motives!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Michael D. Hafer — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:00:07 GMT

Ronald Reagan met with the leader of the Soviet Empire even while it was embroiled in the invasion of Afghanistan in the 1980s. This is the same country that Ronnie labeled "the Evil Empire". Did he shy away from Mikhail Gorbachev? NO! He met with him! He sat down with the man, face to face. He told him in no uncertain terms what America is about and what America expects. Ronald Reagan, John F Kennedy, and BARACK OBAMA are on the right side of this issue. John McPain, George W. Bush, and Hillary Clinton are on the WRONG side of this issue and on the wrong side of History.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

William C Simmer, Blue Springs, MO 64014 — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:00:53 GMT

Obama defends 'liberal' label

william t. street — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:02:58 GMT

The headline on this article does not really describe accurately the content of Barack Obama's subsequently quoted remarks in his speech.

Apparently, Mr. Obama did not stand up and declare "Yes, I'm a liberal. I'm proud of the liberalism that in earlier years gave us the Geneva Conventions, Social Security, a graduated income tax, and forced an end to the Vietnam War. I'm getting sick and tired of trying to engage in public policy debates within a media framework in which liberal is always used as a dirty word or even as an epithet, while the term conservative is the label consistently applied to policies and politicians that are supposedly moral, supposedly wise in judgment, and supposedly fiscally responsible.

"Words do matter. And it's time for America to move beyond the narrow ideological world view of Karl Rove and his language spinmeisters, a frame of public debate that perpetually limits our nation's range of policy options to a false choice between the conservatism of John McCain, or else the neo-conservatism of George W. Bush."

Senator Obama is of course absolutely correct in what he said in his Austin speech: reducing the influence of money in politics, caring for veterans, and providing universal health care are all issues that both liberals and genuine conservatives can support. But I anxiously look forward to a future oratorical flourish in which Barack truly does stand up and defend the liberal label. That would be really newsworthy.

Bill Street
Saginaw, Michigan

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Sally Mason, Manistee, MI — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:03:21 GMT

Maybe some people like to think that arrogantly stating that you won't talk to certain leaders (ie. unpopular with the (neocon, conservative folks)increases your power. Well, it does not! Put downs and imperial posturing create nothing but resentment and the wish to give the pompous "you know whats" their comeupence. I think the present administration has done that already and see how well it is working. Listening and respect creates a much better environment for progress in resolving differences. Go Obama! Talk to them as soon as possible, I also believe there is hope.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jeremy, Fontana, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:06:55 GMT

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jeremy, Fontana, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:07:33 GMT

.....I guess not.....

Obama defends 'liberal' label

sorry, just freaked out by all this — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:09:13 GMT

This is just freaky. Don't you people think this is freaky? I mean scarey freaky. This is how people like Jim Jones and Adolf Hitler get started. It's too weird.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jon, King of Prussia, PA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:09:21 GMT

For those who "get" Obama, they realize that it's not about race, gender, or policy. It's about Hope vs. The Machine.

For better or worse, Clinton is not so different from her Republican brethren in that she represents "the machine."

Obama is running against The Machine. And he has inspired me to create a website dedicated to collecting the best reasons to Vote for Hope. Everyone can contribute and vote on the best reasons to vote for hope.

http://HopeAgainstTheMachine.com

Check it out. It's what Obama's campaign is really about. Not the traditional things that campaigns are based upon.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Vera Margolis, Santa Ynez, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:10:51 GMT

If Obama has the right people to guide him, ie: A good Chief of Staff, Secretary of State and Defense and a top Financial Analyst, good Diplomats and a top running mate, his so-called "inexperience" will be non-existant. He is intelligent and learns fast, not to mention his true life experiences. These are attributes that can make a great leader for this great country. If possible his cabinet can be bi-partison and bind the country together.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Lynn — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:12:40 GMT

Obama is going to have to try a lot harder to convince me he isn’t a liberal. His vision for America is for us to become just like CANADA. EWWW. He is a liberal. I think he should stop playing games.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Chad, Salt Lake City Utah — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:14:19 GMT

Please god let this end soon. We as a democratic party need to unite before we destroy ourselves.

WE CANNOT HAVE ANOTHER REPUBLICAN LEADER!

I acknowledge Hillary for her resiliency but if she really does care more about this country then her own ambition she will not destroy her own party in order to get power. It is up to Texas and Ohio to wake up and recognize what is going on and seal the deal as they say.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Tony De Pippo, Crystal Lake, Illinois — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:19:56 GMT

If you truely want change and want to reduce money then join John McCain and use public funding like you pledged to do a year ago; if you want to take care of the troops then don't hold up funding bills go on record voteing to give the troops what they need to WIN; we don't need another Jimmy Carter in the White House, a president who stood by and let radical Islam take over in Iran; a president who almost lost Central America to the Communists (thank God Reagan made him a single term president and took action to take back Nicaragua & save El Salvador), A man with a plan to make us wait a year or longer for medical tests and lifesaveing operations like they do in Europe & Canada (unless you can afford to come to the USA for medical care), a man who wants to take us down the path to European Socialism, who wants open borders & uncontrolled immigration, Higher taxes to pay for all the social programs that we cannot afford and don't work. Change is a constant no matter who is in the White House, the question is is this good change or bad change? "Yes we can" is a fine slogan but as individual freedom working together for the common good not as collective socialism as espoused by the liberial left.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Dwight Burdette — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:22:42 GMT

It's about time a Democrat called the Republicans on their tired rhetoric of dismissing Democratic proposals as 'liberal' without ever discussing the issues.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Steve T. Fort Collins, CO — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:23:20 GMT

Anybody who doesn't understand by now this guy is the Real Deal is just clueless.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

j,cs, co — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:24:57 GMT

Sen. Obama failed to mention that He is strongly in favor of partial birth abortion;

favors affirmative action in colleges and government;

favors same sex domestic partnership benefits;

opposes teacher led prayer in schools;

opposes the death penalty;

opposes 3 strikes sentencing laws;

opposes absolute right to gun ownership;

opposes privatize Social Security;

has no opinion that drug use is immoral;

GET THIS: favors stricter limits on politcal campaign funds;

favors US out of Iraq.

He is a left wing liberal. And has made NO attempt to even inch toward the middle. He is not a uniter, he is a divider.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jimmy C., Oak Brook, IL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:30:55 GMT

Okie dokie? Ch-ch-change, change, change! I like that you say that BHB's got a riff! When do you suppose he is going to start a rap? Then, all his adoring fans can sing along. Barack is the new American idol of the spoken word. All hail Barack. We're not worthy, we're not worthy. Speak for us Barack! Aren't you tired of this song and dance yet?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Paul Curbow - Portland Maine — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:38:15 GMT

Barack Obama `08.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Donald Weed, Sammamish, WA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:39:09 GMT

The National Journal pronounced Obama as the most liberal senator, after proclaiming John Kerry the most liberal senator in 2004. Isn't it funny how that happens? Listen, Obama ain't a tenth as liberal as I am, and I'll be pushing him hard on causes that matter to me for the next four years. I'm for Obama because he's a moderate who will listen to us, so get your positions ready, and we'll start hammering out some deals.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Selwyn Touber` — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:41:46 GMT

Obama just uncovered a terrific slogan for those occasions when he's addressing Republican complaints about his "liberal" positions,spoken loud and clear, "Don't let them run that okie doke on you!" Used often enough,it could become a popular chant, resembling FDRs memorable chant dismissive of "Martin...Barton...aaand FISH!!!

FISH

Obama defends 'liberal' label

murl lewis, canyon lake, texas — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:42:05 GMT

senator obama uses I,us and our more often than not.
senator clinton though, uses I,me and my the most. somehow i see this relates to "we the people"

Obama defends 'liberal' label

salt lake city — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:45:23 GMT

This is the change we believe in. I am noticing that none of the big news media covers Barack Obama but HRC. It is all about her, specially CNN makes all effort to undermine Barack Obama as if they are promoting HRC.
HILARY CLINTON HAS A LOT OF EXPERIENCE MAKING BAD DECISION AND BAD CHOICES AND I DONT THINK THAT MUCH POWER WILL CHANGE ANY OF THAT.

1. SHE LOBBIED NAFTA BEFORE SHE CALLED A TIME OUT.
2. SHE VOTED FOR THE WAR AND ONCE SAID THAT WE SHOULD KEEP THE COURSE BECAUSE THE SURGE IS WORKING (Chuck Dodd, she said that during a debate) BEFORE SHE IS AGAINST IT.
3. SHE RUN ON HER HUSBAND RECORD BUT NOW TRY TO DISTANCE HERSELF FROM IT.
4. EVERYTIME SHE HAS HER BACK AGAINST THE WALL, SHE COME UP AS THIS NICE LADY LIKING PEOPLE.

We need consistency in a president.
HRC should just drop out of the race.

Please Vote Smart, Vote Intelligent, Vote Barack.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Mia, FL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:51:47 GMT

Reality check! The whole country is getting more liberal. Consider it the inevitable backlash against the corrupt, greed, self serving Bush-Brand Republican politics with which we are all so incredibly fed up.

But you know what? I remember the 1990's, too. After Clinton, we all got a bit more conservative. It's the natural, healthy sway from left to right that occurs when free, thinking people question the status quo.

Right now, after 8 years of Bush and his Republican cronies forcing bad policy down our throats under the guise of "conservative Christian values" LIBERAL THINKING sounds pretty darn good!

LIBERAL certainly isn't a dirty word anymore. In fact, in 08, I'd hate to be the one running as a conservative! Sorry guys, this isn't your year!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Larkin G. Mead, Woodstock, Illinois — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:53:53 GMT

Barack Hussein Obama is not only a liberal, he is a Socialist right out of the Karl Marx playbook. He soulds more like Karl Marx and Frederich Engels with every campaign rally. He is a frightening figure on the political stage and Americans had better wake up to his message. It is time to derail the "soul train" along with his rival, Hillary Rodham Clinton.

To those who do not remember their history, I urge you to read Karl Marx communist manifesto of 1848.

The general election of 2008 is about whether we will remain a Republic with democratic principles or will we become a Socialist State, beholden to a huge central governmental body that will make every one of us "wards of the state"!

No Obama! No Clinton! No Socialistic State!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Merri — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:55:29 GMT

CNN has been playing Hillary's latest rant over and over again today as if that gives it validity. (Somehow when I hear her voice I feel like I'm being scolded.)
I don't think this tactic is going to help her, because the angrier she sounds, the more desperate she sounds. She knew about the fliers for weeks, and now acts shocked that he's pointing out differences in policies. Pointing out policy differences is not exactly rising to the level of Karl Rove politics (as she's been saying). I guess when you get big donations from Fox News' Rupert Murdoch, you know all about Karl Rove politics...and she has the nerve to talk about how Democrats should behave?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Don, State College, PA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:55:44 GMT

Yea obama is a LIBERAL all right. Only certain groups in this country will have his ear if he is ever elected president.

Vote Hilliary as if your job and the jobs of your children depend upon it because it does.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Matthew, Houston, TX — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:00:12 GMT

I drank the Kool-Aid and man did it taste good! It tasted like intelligence, like a tough but smart foreign policy, a fairer tax system, like a President who has no obligations to large corporate organizations or lobbyists and will work for the people, like a President who not only studied the Constitution in school but understands it and has actually taught it, like a President who will work with those who disagree without demonizing them, like policy based on intelligent and substantive debate and not fear or secrecy, etc., etc.

So, yeah, I drank the Kool-Aid and it tasted damn fine. A cult? What an insult but if you must describe it that way, it is a cult that honors intelligence, talks to those who disagree, is tolerant and respectful of those who disagree, who understands that people who disagree on some things can agree on others and work toward the common good.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

DJ — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:02:05 GMT

All of you do realize he did not vote against the war. He was not in the senate at the time when 77 of the 100 senators voted to keep our country safe. He actually didn't have the opportunity to make such an important decision and is running on "he was against the war". What a false elusion he is giving the public. What a shame he continues to play dirty and tries to project himself clean and above it all. He says one thing and does just the opposite - what a surprise he isn’t the Holy Grail all you want him to be. He is not the messiah either but he would like you to think he is by uniting the country. That my friends is another elusion because he is in it for himself and is taking you for a ride. Just you wait and see if he brings you along with him. What a selfish person he is turning out to be.

To bad he can't be truthful when he speaks to the crowds about who he really is and what he can't do for this country. Do all of you really think he can just waltz into Washington DC and snap his fingers and everyone is going to do what he wants. Doesn't work that way - it requires more then he capable of right now. If he had more seasoning maybe he would know that.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Al, Seattle, WA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:12:58 GMT

No, there is nothing wrong about being a "liberal". There IS something wrong about posing as a healer who will bridge opposing parties when you have a history of never agreeing with them (Republicans). How many bi-partisan measures did he sponsor at the US Senate? Isn't Obama's lonely fillibustering on Chief Justice Roberts an example of bitter partisan bickering?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

betty LHC, Az — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:19:23 GMT

Now Clinton says, Meet me in Ohio, like she said Meet me in Texas, all those invitations. now nice. but, boy, she is on a warpath now, watch your back Obama, she is out to bring you down

Obama defends 'liberal' label

betty LHC, Az — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:21:48 GMT

Now Clinton says, Meet me in Ohio, like she said Meet me in Texas, all those invitations. now nice. but, boy, she is on a warpath now, watch your back Obama, she is out to bring you down

Obama defends 'liberal' label

LHarris, Chicago, IL — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:22:28 GMT

What a wonderful president he's going to be.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Horace Johnson, Baltimore MD — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:30:58 GMT

Unfortunately it does seem "liberal" to pull out of Iraq when progress is being made for the first time.

Sure, no one likes soldiers dying in vain, but that's exactly what will happen if we pull out before lasting stability is achieved under the Maliki government.

Full opinion: http://www.nationalscold.com

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jasmine, Apex NC — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:30:59 GMT

I wish that people would stop associating the excitment of the Obama supporters as a reflection that they are not voting on the issues. To the contrary, it is the issues that has me convinced that he is what the country needs. Obama supportes are informed, we're just fired up too....maybe the two go hand in hand. Confidence about the details and pride in a strong leader who can get them done. But don't take my word for it. Go to the Obama website, read the issues and decide for yourself. And after you have read the details for yourself, I say Welcome aboard the Obama train.

Jsmine, NC

Obama defends 'liberal' label

rproctor, FWB , Fl. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:40:48 GMT

As a Fl. long term democrat who is VERY angrey that my vote is not accounted for in this election-"Careful USA of the Obama retoric- remember Pres. Bush w/ his "compassionate coservative" talk that has led to our great economy tragedy in this election- and remember "I'm a Uniter-not a divider"- that sounds a lot like Obama's retoric of getting a consensus, -talking with everyone around the "Knight in Shinning Armour" round table- be careful--vote with wisdom, which dictates-look at the facts. Hope without action-"words without action" are baseless. An admitted Hillary voter- 57 yrs. old--- please be wise. This is the most important vote of my lifetime. =Sick of the MOST Devisive Presidency of my lifetime!!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Carroll L. Heath — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:40:50 GMT

That does it for me! If Obamma starts distorting and giving false info on major issues like health insurancer this early, I absolutely will not vote for him if he is the Democratic nominee. Hillary is giving the facts of what she will and won't do. Obana is merely "preaching to the choir" in the style of a preacher.

His sound bytes and speech inflections (again in the style of the preacher-man) are not what I want to hear from the candidate in the most critical election in my lifetime. I am 74 years old and realize I may be a cermudgeon but style and knowledge impress me more than his "rant" and "inflection" style of speech.

Right On Hillary

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Mike James,San Diego Ca. — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:44:28 GMT

Hillary Rotten is so transparent. All of a sudden
this fake anger. Well she's down to her last bootstrap.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Craig de LIBERAL, Arcata, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:44:44 GMT

THANK GOD somebody is standing up for Democrats, and restoring the word "liberal" to it's rightful place of honor. I'm the recipient of a "liberal" education, in the "liberal arts" and I'd always thought it was a word that described a fortunate condition: "a philosophy of education that empowers individuals with broad knowledge and transferable skills, and a stronger sense of values, ethics, and civic engagement ... characterized by challenging encounters with important issues, and more a way of studying than a specific course or field of study" not a condition of being a political and "social pariah".

GObama!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Michael Markman, Kirkland, WA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:46:02 GMT

Inaccurate headline. Nothing you quoted is a defense of the liberal label. It all sidesteps the liberal label. He doesn't say "I'm a liberal and proud of it." He says "what I'm fighting for has nothing to do with being liberal."

Obama defends 'liberal' label

mexed, san antonio, texas — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:46:13 GMT

No, their not delusional. They believe in what they see. And what they see is real. It's just that they don't demand much. And what they see isn't much. Many Democrats believed in George Bush. He was "such a nice guy." He was "refreshingly forthright." Blah, blah. "Obama lifts my spirits." "Obama gives me hope." How about Obama speaking the truth. How about Obama being able to say that he changed his tune on Cuba just a little closer to Hillary's because his first comments were so idiotic and truly childishly simple. How about saying the truth about his health care that all can opt-out of and thus create a total mess and make my health care cost even more. How about his claim that people are forced to buy health clare under the Clinton plan. Are we not forced to pay taxes, are we not forced to by car insurance, are we not forced to do a lot of things for the common good of all the people? Perhaps we should have opt-out clauses for all the laws passed to protect minorities. After all, that does infringe on personal choice. His attacks are unjust. Obama, what a great orator for the right!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Douglas — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:49:42 GMT

This shows why Obama will be a great president - he cuts through the crap and won't take any of it. He isn't afraid to stand up. None of the juvenile attacks against him by Hillary or McCain will make a dent.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jenny Malay, Red Wing MN — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:50:08 GMT

What a wonderful president he's going to be.
LHarris, Chicago, IL

Maybe of the local sub-division. But I'm not even sure he qualifies to have that much power.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

diane — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:01:30 GMT

I see Obama is not going to be a spineless democrat crouching in the corner and denying he is anything like a liberal.
He is going to have great fun with the republicans mocking them.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Rick Garza, Harlingen Texas — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:02:14 GMT

Obama's Cult Of Personality will be short-lived. I can't wait till Obama is as passe as the New Kids On The Block next November.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

John Doe — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:09:04 GMT

The National Scold SHOULDNOT serve as your guide in evaluating each candidate's qualities. It is OPINION only, and you have to be careful. Don't let bias and opinion buy your votes.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

michael, ca — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:10:02 GMT

i dont get it the man clearly has a stance on some of the issues so why is HRC saying he doesnt. oh thats right because she thinks we are stupid and can be easily duped.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Pia — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:15:18 GMT

Jasmine,
I completely agree. We are certainly not 'delusional' as the Clinton camp thinks.
By the way, you have a pretty name.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Mike — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:16:17 GMT

Clintons know it all and Hillary knows it best. Her speeches and promises are solution, her opponent's speeches and promises are just words and no action. What experience has she had?- being a first lady married to Bill, or being a senator? ?To the best of my recollection, she has never had an executive experience, aside from being married to someone who has. If she touts her experience, was it her (husband's) failure to push through a health care reform program or his (and her's) failure on signing NAFTA and costing american works their jobs? if she claims the experince of past clinton presidency, she's accountable also to the not so good decisions and programs of her husband's presidency.

She really needs to stop insulting the same voters that she will count on to win white house, if she were the nominee, by insinuating that they are dillusional.

She's really a polarizing figure!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

realist — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:16:56 GMT

"Unfortunately it does seem "liberal" to pull out of Iraq when progress is being made for the first time."

Unfortunately I'm tired of paying for Iraq and I'm tired of seeing U.S. soldiers keep dying to stay there.

Here's a thought: you like it, go fight it. And pay for your own transportation and gear to do it, too.

McCain can go fight that fools errand as long as he wants--but don't do it on my dime. I just see it as a 12 billion dollar effort to pour more gasoline on the fire of Muslim extremism.

Go Obama!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Matthew Gerring, Sacramento, CA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:16:57 GMT

Yeah, I'm getting tired of this whole "cult of personality" thing.

The reason people like Obama is because he's a reasonable, intelligent guy with a good legislative record and a different conception of leadership than the American people are used to.

If there were someone else who shared those qualities- say, Mike Bloomberg- also in the race, I might have a harder time deciding.

As one of those young supporters that's supposedly a rabid cultist, I can tell you that this supposed "cult following" is the media's invention only. Ask anyone who's worked on the campaign, or been to an event, especially lately. Obama's been getting more and more policy heavy, and he's returned (finally) to giving professorial dissertations in place of sound bites.

And to be fair, for my generation which only really knows George Bush, the emergence of a viable candidate who offers such a break from his policies, who has run a bottom-up grassroots campaign (again, I've worked for the campaign, so I know what I'm talking about here), IS extremely exciting, and it should be no wonder to anyone why support for him is so enthusiastic.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Christine, Sedona, AZ — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:20:03 GMT

Is there an official definition of "liberal"? Or does every person using it have his/her own definition?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Tane Lewis, Kansas City, Missouri — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:21:49 GMT

From Buckminster Fuller's, And it Came to Pass - Not to Stay

...
To keep the conquered
Controllably disintegrated
And fearfully dependent
"They" also foster perpetuation or increase
Of religious, ethnic, linguistic,
And skin-color differentiations
As obvious conditioned-reflex exploitabilities.

Special-interest sovereignty will always
Attempt to monopolize and control
All strategic information (intelligence),
Thus to keep the divided specializing world
Innocently controlled by its propaganda
And dependent exclusively upon its dictum.

Youth has discovered all this
And is countering with comprehensivity and synergy.
Youth will win overwhelmingly
For truth
Is eternally regenerative
In Youth.
Youth's love
Embracingly integrates,
Successfully frustrates,
And holds together,
Often unwittingly
All that hate, fear, and selfishness
Attempt to disintegrate.

I think he nailed it! Yes We Can!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Getty Israel, Jackson, MS — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:25:30 GMT

I have been waiting for a long time for a Democrat to defend liberalism. It's interesting and shocking that the Republican Party has the audacity to speak of "conservatism" as though it is a national honor to be a "conservative". There is nothing conservative about this Party's political stances. Take for instance that the Republic Party pushed our nation in to an unlawful, wrong war, pushed for permanent tax cuts for the rich, is against universal health care, supports cuts in social programs for the poor and elderly, supports the monopoly of the pharmaceutical industry and its control of drug prices, is anti public radio and tv, supports big business interests of the public and the environment, does not acknowledge global warming and so many other things that most Americans support. I challenge any voter to take a look at your U.S. Senator and Representatives' voting record. If they are Republican, it is probable that they voted 90% or more in favor of corporate interests and against those of the consumer, patient, individual and general public. I dare you!

I am proud to be a liberal and its damn time that the Democratic Party reclaim pride for its Party's principles and values as strongly and passionately as the Republicans do.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Patrick , Carteret , NJ — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:27:33 GMT

Obama, is really using good words and praises high class rhetoric lines to facinate his audience but it was very clear that on the last debate he lost again to Hillary. On Health Care Program, and especially on Foreign policy. Obama kept using and borrowing infamous word like that of the late President Kennedy; we should not negotiate out of fear but we should not fear to negotiate... does he really bound to do and follow or he trying to ellude and mislead the people.Does he really know how to negotiate bring back this country where it belong bytalking in public using the word "Hey Ya and Yo" I am not making fun of Obama because I don't think its funny to hear those kind of things from someone who is trying to to be a president of this great country. I dont think it s approriate I think it is very disrespectful, tasteless, and low class to address your opening speech to those very enthusistic crowd of Obama. So Obamans If i were you I will have a second thought if Obama is really what you want to be your president. Yo!..... hey yo..... yes yo!!!!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Lady Doe — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:28:06 GMT

Addressing Iraq: Obama is as aware of the need for a successful exit strategy as he was prescient about the rush to war. His priority is honoring the dignity of the Iraqi people as he consults with a foreign policy team that branches out to include over 200 people - and they are a very experienced and respectable lot. Of note: It is unprecedented that a candidate would assemble such a team in a presidential primary. This early planning shows good judgment. (See http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-obama_mon_nusep17,1,1276687.story

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jack Wesolowski, Westminster Maryland — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:32:25 GMT

Bush is conservative? He never met an illegal alien he didn't like, supported set asides in Adarand v. Mineta, jails border agents for doing their job, and took a lukewarm stance against reverse racism in the Gratz and Grutter cases. He also plays patty-cake with terrorists instead of killing them. Oh wait, this is from MSNBC. Anything to the right of Lenin is conservative.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Joe — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:33:20 GMT

Now she is down In LA kissing up to the Aa community saying how she respects Obama

Obama defends 'liberal' label

PulSamsara — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:38:36 GMT

Barack Obama for President of the UNITED States of America.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

PulSamsara — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:43:02 GMT

Fl. Demo:
Your vote is not being counted because your fellow Floridians can not get their sh!t together. Don't blame everyone else for your own shortcomings. Go up to Daytona and watch a race... we don't need your chad laden votes.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Ode To Obama — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:46:24 GMT

HOPE = Handing Out Populist Entitlements

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Rose Davis, Providence, RI — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:52:04 GMT

Can he take the heat? If taking hits from both the GOP and the Clinton Attack Machine simultaneously is not taking heat, I don't know what is. Texas and Ohio, show us some common sense on March 4th.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Michael Murry, Kaohsiung, Taiwan — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:55:42 GMT

As a life-long liberal and victim/veteran of the Nixon-Kissinger Fig Leaf Contingent (Vietnam 1970-1972) I have always considered self-styled "conservatives" as intellectually and morally constipated hypocrites. Having said that, I would have loved it had Senator Obama actually defended us liberals who had no trouble seeing through Deputy Dubya's bullsh*t regarding the hapless Saddam Hussein and a destitute Iraq that never posed the slightest threat to America. Instead, Senator Obama -- whom I support none-the-less -- seemed at pains to repeat the phrase "not liberal" when describing the common-sense liberalism that now characterizes most of non-reactionary America. I simply wish to point out that whoever wrote the headline for this article didn't read it well enough to understand that, if anything, Senator Obama took great care to "distance" himself from the "liberal label" in which I revel but which most conservatives throw about as their most reviled epithet. Does this misreading and misconstruing of the Senator's remarks constitute an unspoken editorial agenda, or just simple linguistic incompetence?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Rick S. Boston, MA — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:59:04 GMT

Actually, I think Barak Obama has the vision and momentum to cause sweeping change and positive inspiration in this country and I do think he will bridge people together. The Bush Administration was divisive and a Clinton Administration would be the same thing....and everyone knows it. To be honest, I think this guys is going to be one of our greatest Presidents. And because of that...I worry about him. The system doesn't like visionaries. The system doesn't like power that speaks for the average person. But I shouldn't worry...I should just enjoy the ride of what will be some of the most amazing years ahead of us with Obama at the helm.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

David Sincavage — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:59:08 GMT

I have always thought it quite funny, and hypocritical, when conservatives tear down the word "Liberal" when the very founders of our country were some of the most liberal thinkers in all of human history...not only that but today's conservatives always listen to "liberal" music and wear the trendy fashions of "liberal" designers. My advice to Conservative America is before you start badmouthing the Liberals, go shop at Walmart for your plaid clothing; and stop listening to our music and drag out your old Lawrence Welk 8-Tracks...I'm just tired of conservatives crying because of their own lack of creative expression. The conservative mantra "I can't think creatively so get out of my sandbox!"

Obama defends 'liberal' label

mat — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:02:32 GMT

obama is god he is god

Obama defends 'liberal' label

los angeles, CA — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:02:45 GMT

Hillary is ready to lead can beat John McCain, Barack Hussein Obama, Jr. has no Record to run on! <a href=http://www.CommentBug.com title=Images CommentBug.com Comments><img src=http://www.CommentBug.com/comments/45bd22ac2ec2e6e873a6bba002a22eb5.jpg alt=CommentBug.com Comments - Animated Graphics border=0 /> CommentBug.com Free Photo Storage!</a>

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Eric J — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:04:02 GMT

rproctor - you should be upset with your state - not Barack Obama. There are punishments for rules being broken and it is ridiculous to hold it against him. You're just using this as an excuse not to like him. Jump on the 'o train

Obama defends 'liberal' label

David — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:09:47 GMT

All the mailers are true. That is the sad thing. Hillary has you duped. She did support NAFTA, she will garnish wages, she voted for the war in Iraq without reading the Intel......now she is trying to backtrack and turn this into lets fix my mistakes or ignore my ideas.....GO OBAMA

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Barbara Gelman, Philadelphia, PA — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:14:53 GMT

One question:

How can a senator with the most liberal voting record in the Senate unite a country whose electorate is, on balance, centrist?

Obama has assembled some folks from the Carter administration, that's not good news, it's a disaster.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Bill Garrot, Greensboro, NC — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:15:45 GMT

Why should anyone have to apologize for being a "liberal." If someone were to call me a "conservation," I would feel highly offended. I am a "liberal" and damn proud to be called one.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

J tuma, London England — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:18:32 GMT

Please Hillary stop attacking Obama and face the issues at hand ; we all love you and don't want you to lose which seems some what likely

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Kathy S., San Antonio — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:18:42 GMT

According to Annenburg Political FactCheck.org:

Clinton ... referring to Texas state Sen. Kirk Watson, who completely whiffed when Hardball’s Chris Matthews threw him a softball question. But Clinton is wrong to suggest that Watson's inability to answer means that Obama lacks substantive accomplishments. In fact, Obama sponsored more than 800 bills during his eight years as an Illinois state senator. And his U.S. Senate career, while brief, has been action-packed.

As for Obama’s list of his accomplishments, he’s right on every count. A Washington Post editorial credited Obama for helping to create "the strongest ethics legislation to emerge from Congress yet," and the Coburn-Obama Act created a new Web site, USAspending.gov, which allows anyone to see where federal contracting and grant money is being spent. Moreover, it was an Obama-sponsored amendment that ended Walter Reed's practice of requiring outpatient military personnel to pay for their own meals. And as a state senator in Illinois, Obama championed a bill requiring the police to videotape prisoner interrogations. Although initially controversial, the measure passed the Senate unanimously; even Republicans conceded that the turnaround was largely Obama’s doing. Finally, while Obama didn’t mention this one, we think it’s worth noting that the Lugar-Obama non-proliferation initiative provided funds for destroying nuclear weapons and for intercepting weapons of mass destruction.

In short, Clinton is wrong to suggest that Obama lacks a substantive legislative record.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

r s granite city il — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:23:16 GMT

I live in illinois tell me one thing this man has done!!!one thing ???not his speeches and empty words ?? how many votes has he missed ?? in the illinois state gov. ?? and the federal gov..give exact numbers people if you can !!!!!!!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Marcia, Gold Canyon, AZ — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:26:59 GMT

David...this is for you:
http://www.factcheck.org/elections-2008/theyve_got_you_covered.html

http://www.factcheck.org/elections-2008/harry_louise_again.html

The mailers are bogus trash...you should be offended that any dem is bashing a policy we have all agreed to support...your guy is the original Obamican!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jane11 — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:29:04 GMT

Finally a LEADER NOT AFRAID TO SAY WHAT HE BELIEVES IN. BTW THE LAST ACT OF HILLARY WAS A BIT DISTURBING...IS SHE LOSING IT?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Douglas — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:29:15 GMT

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Dave — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:29:39 GMT

"There's nothing liberal about wanting to make sure that everybody has healthcare..."

Obama doesn't "defend" the liberal label here, he did the exact opposite. He lists many great ideas, some of which actually are what I would call liberal or at least progressive agenda items, and says "there's nothing liberal about that." I don't see too many conservatives pushing for universal health care, or reform in the veteran's health care system. I like Obama, though he isn't my first choice, and if he wins the nom I'm voting for him with a smile on my face, but I don't think he defended the liberal label he ran from it.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Douglas — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:31:50 GMT

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Adam, San Bruno, California — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:32:07 GMT

It is amazing to me how many commentors don't bother checking the simplest of facts. Look at what Hillary did in the senate. Go ahead, LOOK! Then look what Obama has done - Obama, the guy that has much more ELECTED experience than Hillary. Look at what they have actually done! Then tell me how you want to vote. So many of you are persuaded by sound bites, and don't bother checking the facts! I am an Obama supporter. He has MUCH more experience, has passed MANY more meaningful bills and has run a more HONEST campaign - by comparison. But, don't take my word for it - look up their senate records. Then tell me who is the better one to have in office.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Larry Austrin, TX — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:33:05 GMT

Try 30,000 Local news estimates over 30,000

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Steve T. — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:34:25 GMT

"r s" in granite city:

Go to the following link:

http://obsidianwings.blogs.com/obsidian_wings/2008/02/obama-actually.html

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Kelly M — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:34:36 GMT

Listen I'm a black guy named Barack Obama running for president. You can’t tell me I ain't tough. Shoot!"
Race Baiting, think about it he has a chip on his shoulder

Obama defends 'liberal' label

USAFIRST11 — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:38:56 GMT

TO r s granite city il

I live in illinois tell me one thing this man has done!!!one thing ???

HERE ARE THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF HILLARY AND OBAMA. IF YOU DON'T KNOW THEM, IT'S EITHER BECAUSE YOU HAVE NOT DONE YOUR HOMEWORK OR CHOSE TO REMAIN IGNORANT.

Senator Clinton, who has served only one full term (6yrs.), and another year campaigning, has managed to author and pass into law, (20) twenty pieces of legislation in her first six years.
These bills can be found on the website of the Library of Congress (www.thomas.loc.gov), but to save you trouble, I'll post them here for you.
1. Establish the Kate Mullany National Historic Site.
2. Support the goals and ideals of Better Hearing and Speech Month.
3. Recognize the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.
4. Name courthouse after Thurgood Marshall.
5. Name courthouse after James L. Watson.
6. Name post office after Jonn A. O'Shea.
7. Designate Aug. 7, 2003, as National Purple Heart Recognition Day.
8. Support the goals and ideals of National Purple Heart Recognition Day.
9. Honor the life and legacy of Alexander Hamilton on the bicentennial of his death.
10. Congratulate the Syracuse Univ. Orange Men's Lacrosse Team on winning the championship.

OBAMAS:
Now, I would post those of Obama's, but the list is too substantive, so I'll mainly categorize. During the first (8) eight years of his elected service he sponsored over 820 bills. He introduced
233 regarding healthcare reform,
125 on poverty and public assistance,
112 crime fighting bills,
97 economic bills,
60 human rights and anti-discrimination bills,
21 ethics reform bills,
15 gun control,
6 veterans affairs and many others.
His first year in the U.S. Senate, he authored 152 bills and co-sponsored another 427. These included:
**the Coburn-Obama Government Transparency Act of 2006 (became law),
**The Lugar-Obama Nuclear Non-proliferation and Conventional Weapons Threat Reduction Act, (became law),
**The Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act, passed the Senate,
**The 2007 Government Ethics Bill, (became law),
**The Protection Against Excessive Executive Compensation Bill, (In committee), and many more.
In all since enter the U.S. Senate, Senator Obama has written 890 bills and co-sponsored another 1096.
(FROM WIZBANGBLUE, Mothermaven, 2/13/08)"

Obama defends 'liberal' label

TEXAN — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:41:21 GMT

"HOPE" IS A POLITICAL SLOGAN.
"CHANGE" IS A PROMISE NOT A REALITY.
"DREAM" IS ANOTHER'S CIVIL RIGHTS LEADER[MLK] BACK IN 60'S AND BECAME REALITY UNDER LBJ'S ADMINISTRATION.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:42:06 GMT

To FL Demo, I too am a Florida democrat-nice try but we deserved to be stripped of our votes. Neither candidate was allowed to campaign here. It would be beyond unfair to count votes in a third-world country like scenario such as that. We'll live to sit this one out.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Obamacan — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:44:00 GMT

Carroll Heath, and please answer carefully because your and more importantly the credibility of your precious Hillary Clinton turns on it. Please detail exactly what in Obama's mailer was false. For once can you Hillary supporters please rely on facts instead of using the usual Washingtonian tactics.

Obama '08

Obama defends 'liberal' label

T Terry — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:45:38 GMT

I'm tired of all the liberal and conservative talk. They both do the same D*** thing.

Conservatism requires that the government not take part in the relief of those that cannot. In other words, look for soup kitchens and other charities to help with your needs.

Liberalism requires that government play a role in the relief. In other words, look for government programs to assist with your needs.

THE FALLACY with both sides is that if one purely is then:
Republicans rely on the good grace of those that want to help. Great for individual choice, but is not the Republicans the party of values. Seems to me that they would want the people (government) to help.

Democrats rely on everyone to relieve the suffering of all other Americans. Granted that forces and equalizes the playing field, but also purely government orgs are notoriously ineffecient.

So, the only difference is that Republicans want the people (non-government sponsered progs) to help others while Democrats want the people (via government sponsered programs) to help the people.

So, the eternal question remains: Who is right?

BTW is it not the same?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

GoUSA22 — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:48:18 GMT

Dear Marcia, Gold Canyon:
To be fair, you should have included the following site that shows how Clinton's mailer distorted the truth about Obama's plan.

http://www.factcheck.org/elections-2008/youve_got_mailers.html

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Fairfax, VA — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 00:51:43 GMT

As an African American, I am ashamed that people has fall for the Republican and some Democratic tactics.. The Republicans and the Media have done a good job in villifying and almost getting Hillary out of the way as they know that she would be harder to beat and control in the Presidency. Even Democrats like the Kennedys are salivating for Obama to be the President for their own agendas. If Obama gets the nomination, Republications will win the White House. Do not forget that you read this here first.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

lee — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:04:52 GMT

I Refuse to Buy into the Obama Hype (now a supporter)
by Grassroots Mom
Wed Feb 20, 2008 at 05:13:32 PM PST

The next President is going to have some MAJOR challenges.
I refuse to buy into the hype, on either side, but especially on that of Obama. However the "empty rhetoric" v. "history of accomplishments" arguments have prompted me to check it out on my own, not relying on any candidate's website, book, or worst of all supporters' diaries, like this one.

I went to the Library of Congress Website. The FACTS of what each did in the Senate last year sure surprised me. I'm sure they will surprise you, too. Whether you love or hate Hillary, you will be surprised. Whether you think Obama is the second coming of JFK or an inexperienced lightweight, you will surprised. Go check out the Library of Congress Website. After spending some time there, it will be clear that there is really only one candidate would is ready to be the next president, even better than Gore. If you don't want to spend an hour or two doing research, then I'll tell you what I discovered on the jump.

* Grassroots Mom's diary :: ::
*

I looked up Obama and looked up Clinton. I looked at the bills that they both authored and introduced. Anyone who has been around politics, and is honest, realizes that there are a lot of reasons why a Senator votes one way or another on bills or misses votes. However an examination of the bills that each of these Senators cared enough about to author and introduce revealed much to me: what they care about, what their priorities are, how they tackle problems. And the list of co-sponsors showed something about how they lead, inspire and work with others. Finally, looking at which bills actually passed is pretty indicative of how effective each would be at getting things done.

Before I get into the nitty gritty, let's all be honest here. It is damn hard to get anything through Congress these days. And Obama and Clinton care about the same issues and have obviously worked together on a lot of legislation, whatever Sen. Clinton's campaign may imply. She is a frequent co-sponsor on his bills, and he on hers. They are both completely competent senators.

I started with Sen. Clinton.

I'm not a Hillary Hater, but I certainly didn't like her much either. I didn't like her DLC history; her votes on Iraq, Iran or the bankruptcy bill; her characterization of the years she spent as First Lady as "executive experience." Hillary Clinton is no Eleanor Roosevelt. Perhaps more like Lady Bird Johnson. Hillary claims to have brought us SCHIP (with a little help from Ted Kennedy). Lady Bird brought us Head Start as well as cleaner, nicer highways. Anyone 40 or older probably remembers when the nation's highways were basically disgusting garbage dumps lined with billboards. But no one thinks Lady Bird should have been president. Might as well argue for Barbara Bush because of her efforts on family literacy, or Nancy Reagan and the War on Drugs.

Hillary Clinton does have a solid record in the Senate, however.

I came away from my research really knowing a lot more about what is important to Hillary in her heart: kids and their well being. My research changed my feeling about her significantly. About 40% of her bills dealt with health care and/or kids. As a mom with small kids, I like her passion for children's issues. But curiously, her big bill to deliver health care to every child, the one she lauds on her website, S.895 : "A bill to amend titles XIX and XXI of the Social Security Act to ensure that every child in the United States has access to affordable, quality health insurance coverage, and for other purposes" had not a single co-sponsor. Not one, according to the Library of Congress. Why is that? Is it a bad bill? Or is she not able to recruit support for her signature issue? Or did she just submit it simply to put in the hopper, so to speak, so she could claim she was working on it. I honestly don't know the answer, but I find it curious and suspicious that not even Ted Kennedy co-sponsored it. Its sister bill in the house, H.R. 1535, introduced by John Dingell has 42 co-sponsors. It's just weird. I honestly don't know what to make of it.

S.895 was major. But most of her other bills are much smaller in scale and scope — more targeted and more careful.

For example, she introduced one bill that offered tax credits for building owners who clean up lead paint. Which is a very good thing. And Obama is a co-sponsor. "S.1793 : A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a tax credit for property owners who remove lead-based paint hazards."

Obama's anti-lead bill (S. 1306) directed the Consumer Product Safety Commission to classify certain children's products containing lead as banned hazardous substances. He had another bill prohibitting the interstate transport of children's products containing lead. (S.2132) And Hillary co-sponsored each of these.

In other words, they both care about protecting children from lead.

The difference is in the scope and the approach.

Obama's bill shows how he thinks big: do everything we can to make sure that lead-painted Thomas the Tank Engine toys don't get into the hands and mouths of millions of toddlers in this country.

Or Hillary: encourage people by offering tax credits to clean up lead paint in old buildings. People have been talking about lead paint in old buildings hurting kids in living in inner cities, since, well when I was a kid — for decades. If it is still a big problem, is offering tax credits for clean up, i.e. scrape down the walls and repaint, the best way to protect kids from lead?

How many of you parents have lead paint problems? How many have (or had) toxic Thomas the Tank Engine Toys? They are everywhere. The local bookstore and kid's shoe store and the doctor's office and the preschool and the toystore all have train tables. There is nowhere you can go anymore with toddlers that doesn't have a Thomas the Tank Engine train table covered with toxic toys. But that's just my feeling.

Obama's bills risk pissing off the toy industry and the Chinese. Hillary's risks nothing.

A lot of Clinton's health bills focus on children. Or women. She introduced a billl for research in the causes of gestational diabetes, for more pediatric research (S.895) and a rural agriculture bill to get farm-fresh veggies into schools (S.1031).

Her bill dealing with the crisis in foreclosure is actually S.2114 : "A bill to amend the Truth in Lending Act, to provide for enhanced disclosures to consumers and enhanced regulation of mortgage brokers, and for other purposes." Again, no co-sponsors. Obama also introduced a bill in the face of the mortgage foreclosure crisis: S.1222 : "A bill to stop mortgage transactions which operate to promote fraud, risk, abuse, and under-development, and for other purposes." Sponsor: Sen Obama, Barack [IL] (introduced 4/25/2007), co-sponsored by Dick Durbin.

In her ads and speeches, Clinton claims that she's fighting to stop foreclosure while implying that Obama is empty rhetoric. Actually, Clinton is calling for "enhanced disclosures to consumers and enhanced regulation", while Obama's bill will "stop mortgage transactions which operate to promote fraud, risk, abuse, and under-development." After looking at the two bills, Obama's appears to be tougher, more directly addressing the problem.

Speaking of Obama, here's a list of some of his proposed legislation.

Four bills on energy including
• S.1151 : A bill to provide incentives to the auto industry to accelerate efforts to develop more energy-efficient vehicles to lessen dependence on oil;
•S.115 : A bill to suspend royalty relief, to repeal certain provisions of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, and to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal certain tax incentives for the oil and gas industry; and •S.133 : A bill to promote the national security and stability of the economy of the United States by reducing the dependence of the United States on oil through the use of alternative fuels and new technology, and for other purposes.

Clinton had only one bill that I could find that addressed the same issue, S.701 : A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to impose a temporary oil profit fee and to use the proceeds of the fee collected to provide a Strategic Energy Fund and expand certain energy tax incentives, and for other purposes.

Obama wants to "repeal certain tax incentives for the oil and gas industry". Clinton sees the answer in a "temporary oil profit fee" and to "expand certain energy tax incentives" for alternative energy. Obama's alternative energy bill (S.133) was co-sponsored by Harkin, Lugar and Salazar. Clinton's bill again had no co-sponsors.

On health care he introduced ten bills/amendments, including one amendment that passed: S.AMDT.1041 to S.1082 To improve the safety and efficacy of genetic tests. Other issues addressed in his proposed health care legislation were AIDS research (S.823 ), hospital report cards (S.692 — the V.A., and S.1824 — Medicare), better emergency care (S.1873), and drug price controls (S.2347).

Clinton's health care bills, for the most part, didn't impress me much, although she introduced many more bills in this area than Obama did:

S.CON.RES.63 : A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the Congress regarding the need for additional research into the chronic neurological condition hydrocephalus, and for other purposes.
S.RES.176 : A resolution recognizing April 30, 2007, as "National Healthy Schools Day".
S.RES.222 : A resolution supporting the goals and ideals of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.
S.201 : A bill to establish a grant program for individuals still suffering health effects as a result of the September 11, 2001, attacks in New York City and at the Pentagon.
S.907 : A bill to establish an Advisory Committee on Gestational Diabetes, to provide grants to better understand and reduce gestational diabetes, and for other purposes.
S.993 : A bill to improve pediatric research.
S.982 : A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to provide for integration of mental health services and mental health treatment outreach teams, and for other purposes.
S.1065 : A bill to improve the diagnosis and treatment of traumatic brain injury in members and former members of the Armed Forces, to review and expand telehealth and telemental health programs of the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.
S.1075 : A bill to amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to expand access to contraceptive services for women and men under the Medicaid program, help low income women and couples prevent unintended pregnancies and reduce abortion, and for other purposes.
S.1343 : A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act with respect to prevention and treatment of diabetes, and for other purposes.
S.1712 : A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to improve newborn screening activities, and for other purposes.

and on and on. Plenty of these have plenty of co-sponsors. Obviously, Hillary Clinton really knows her stuff on the issues of health care. None of them passed, however. On Obama's side, one of his health care initiatives passed in the Senate, the aforementioned amendment to Kennedy's S.1082, the FDA Revitalization Act.

Truth be told, it was very depressing doing this research to see all these great ideas and how little actually gets done. Looking at the legislative history of Kennedy's bill is a good example. It finally passed but its sister bill in the House, H.R.2900, was the one that was finally enacted, and with it, Obama's amendment for safe and effective genetic testing. Clinton submitted two amendments to this bill, one of would have eliminated the sunsetting of pediatric data collection; the other would have begin the process to approve generic versions of complex and expensive drugs called biologics or biotech drugs. Neither were adopted.

Now let's look more closely at Obama.

I was blown away as I started going through his record. I've already mentioned his bills on health care and energy. In addition he had introduced bills on Iran, voting, veterans, global warming, campaign finance and lobbyists, Blackwater, global poverty, nuclear proliferation, and education.
On Iran: S.J.RES.23 : A joint resolution clarifying that the use of force against Iran is not authorized by the Authorization for the Use of Military Force Against Iraq, any resolution previously adopted, or any other provision of law.

On votingPassed out of Committee and now on the Senate Calendar for Feb. 22, 2008
S.453 : A bill to prohibit deceptive practices in Federal elections Please check this out! This is a great bill. We need this. I can't believe that this time voter intimidation is not already illegal.

On veterans and military personnel: S.1084 : A bill to provide housing assistance for very low-income veterans;

On global warmingS.1324 : A bill to amend the Clean Air Act to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation fuel sold in the United States;S.1389 : A bill to authorize the National Science Foundation to establish a Climate Change Education Program; S.AMDT.599 to S.CON.RES.21 To add $200 million for Function 270 (Energy) for the demonstration and monitoring of carbon capture and sequestration technology by the Department of Energy. (This last one passed both the House and the Senate as part of the budget bill.)

On campaign finance and lobbyists S.2030 : A bill to amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to require reporting relating to bundled contributions made by persons other than registered lobbyists; and S.AMDT.41 to S.1 To require lobbyists to disclose the candidates, leadership PACs, or political parties for whom they collect or arrange contributions, and the aggregate amount of the contributions collected or arranged.

On Blackwater S.2044 : A bill to provide procedures for the proper classification of employees and independent contractors, and for other purposes, and S.2147 : A bill to require accountability for contractors and contract personnel under Federal contracts, and for other purposes.

On global poverty S.2433 : A bill to require the President to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to further the United States foreign policy objective of promoting the reduction of global poverty, the elimination of extreme global poverty, and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goal of reducing by one-half the proportion of people worldwide, between 1990 and 2015, who live on less than $1 per day.

On global nuclear proliferation S.1977 : A bill to provide for sustained United States leadership in a cooperative global effort to prevent nuclear terrorism, reduce global nuclear arsenals, stop the spread of nuclear weapons and related material and technology, and support the responsible and peaceful use of nuclear technology.

I counted nine education bills, but it's getting late and I've got to get my kids ready for bed.

As I mentioned earlier, Clinton is a frequent co-sponsor on many of Obama's bills. So is Ted Kennedy. So are a number of Republicans.

Finally, Obama appears to have a better record last year in the Senate on getting his bills and amendments passed than does Clinton. I've listed everything that passed the Senate for each them at the end in boxes. But check out Thomas.loc.gov for yourself. I may have missed something.

In my eyes Obama is the superior choice in every way. He cares about more of the issues that matter to me. Kids and health care are important but so is the issue of global warming, on which Clinton introduced not a single bill last year.

Obama is a leader. With bigger majorities in Congress, much of his agenda should sail through. He can inspire this country to change course on so many things, from health care to global warming, where attitudes have to be changed first. I remember Bill Clinton's endless laundry lists of small, focus group approved initiatives. For those who say Hillary will not govern like Bill did, I respond that the people who were doing the market testing of his proposed policies were Dick Morris, of course, and Mark Penn, who is now running Hillary's campaign.

It's Obama for me! I just sent him $100. My first donation this election.

Yes, We Can!

Clinton's Successes:
S.694 : A bill to direct the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations to reduce the incidence of child injury and death occurring inside or outside of light motor vehicles, and for other purposes. (This is currently in conference committee to reconcile difference with the House bill)
Passed in the Senate:
S.CON.RES.27 : A concurrent resolution supporting the goals and ideals of "National Purple Heart Recognition Day".
S.RES.21 : A resolution recognizing the uncommon valor of Wesley Autrey of New York, New York
S.RES.92 : A resolution calling for the immediate and unconditional release of soldiers of Israel held captive by Hamas and Hezbollah.
S.RES.141 : A resolution urging all member countries of the International Commission of the International Tracing Service who have yet to ratify the May 2006 amendments to the 1955 Bonn Accords to expedite the ratification process to allow for open access to the Holocaust archives located at Bad Arolsen, Germany.
S.RES.222 : A resolution supporting the goals and ideals of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.
S.AMDT.666 to H.R.1591 To link award fees under Department of Homeland Security contracts to successful acquisition outcomes under such contracts.
S.AMDT.2047 to H.R.1585 To specify additional individuals eligible to transportation for survivors of deceased members of the Armed Forces to attend their burial ceremonies.
S.AMDT.2108 to H.R.1585 To require a report on the planning and implementation of the policy of the United States toward Darfur.
S.AMDT.2390 to H.R.2638 To require that all contracts of the Department of Homeland Security that provide award fees link such fees to successful acquisition outcomes.
S.AMDT.2474 to H.R.2638 To ensure that the Federal Protective Service has adequate personnel.
S.AMDT.2823 to H.R.3074 To require a report on plans to alleviate congestion and flight delays in the New York/New Jersey/Philadelphia Airspace.
S.AMDT.2917 to H.R.1585 To extend and enhance the authority for temporary lodging expenses for members of the Armed Forces in areas subject to a major disaster declaration or for installations experiencing a sudden increase in personnel levels.

Obama's Success:
S.AMDT.1041 to S.1082 To improve the safety and efficacy of genetic tests.
S.AMDT.3073 to H.R.1585 To provide for transparency and accountability in military and security contracting.
S.AMDT.3078 to H.R.1585 Relating to administrative separations of members of the Armed Forces for personality disorder.
S.AMDT.41 to S.1 To require lobbyists to disclose the candidates, leadership PACs, or political parties for whom they collect or arrange contributions, and the aggregate amount of the contributions collected or arranged.
S.AMDT.524 to S.CON.RES.21 To provide $100 million for the Summer Term Education Program supporting summer learning opportunities for low-income students in the early grades to lessen summer learning losses that contribute to the achievement gaps separating low-income students from their middle-class peers.
S.AMDT.599 to S.CON.RES.21 To add $200 million for Function 270 (Energy) for the demonstration and monitoring of carbon capture and sequestration technology by the Department of Energy.
S.AMDT.905 to S.761 To require the Director of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Education to establish a program to recruit and provide mentors for women and underrepresented minorities who are interested in careers in mathematics, science, and engineering.
S.AMDT.923 to S.761 To expand the pipeline of individuals entering the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields to support United States innovation and competitiveness.
S.AMDT.924 to S.761 To establish summer term education programs.
S.AMDT.2519 to H.R.2638 To provide that one of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be used to enter into a contract in an amount greater than $5 million or to award a grant in excess of such amount unless the prospective contractor or grantee certifies in writing to the agency awarding the contract or grant that the contractor or grantee owes no past due Federal tax liability.
S.AMDT.2588 to H.R.976 To provide certain employment protections for family members who are caring for members of the Armed Forces recovering from illnesses and injuries incurred on active duty.
S.AMDT.2658 to H.R.2642 To provide that none of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be used to enter into a contract in an amount greater than $5,000,000 or to award a grant in excess of such amount unless the prospective contractor or grantee makes certain certifications regarding Federal tax liability.
S.AMDT.2692 to H.R.2764 To require a comprehensive nuclear threat reduction and security plan.
S.AMDT.2799 to H.R.3074 To provide that none of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be used to enter into a contract in an amount greater than $5,000,000 or to award a grant in excess of such amount unless the prospective contractor or grantee makes certain certifications regarding Federal tax liability.
S.AMDT.3137 to H.R.3222 To provide that none of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be used to enter into a contract in an amount greater than $5,000,000 or to award a grant in excess of such amount unless the prospective contractor or grantee makes certain certifications regarding Federal tax liability.
S.AMDT.3234 to H.R.3093 To provide that none of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be used to enter into a contract in an amount greater than $5,000,000 or to award a grant in excess of such amount unless the prospective contractor or grantee makes certain certifications regarding Federal tax liability.
S.AMDT.3331 to H.R.3043 To provide that none of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be used to enter into a contract in an amount greater than $5,000,000 or to award a grant in excess of such amount unless the prospective contractor or grantee makes certain certifications regarding Federal tax liability.
Senate Resolutions Passed:
S.RES.133 : A resolution celebrating the life of Bishop Gilbert Earl Patterson.
S.RES.268 : A resolution designating July 12, 2007, as "National Summer Learning Day".

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Ade ,Houston,tx — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:05:10 GMT

i srongly believe Obama would change the America perception abroad which is at low ebb right now.Like he said"the beneficiary of the Iraqi war is Iran":next will be Venezuela,poor Cuba,a country with no stragegic importance to the Us.Had they had
Technology like China,the mother of modern of communist,oil like Venuezela,and Iran,they would'nt will have been treated the way they are now.I would say give Obama the respect he deserve.The more they pound on him the better he gets.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Murray Kay, North Carolina — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:07:06 GMT

As I said before (it was not printed) A bit of advice, Doesn't Billary know, what every elementary school student knows, "THAT PEOPLE IN GLASS HOUSES SHOUlD NOT CAST STONES"

Obama defends 'liberal' label

J. Quinn, NC — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:08:00 GMT

To Cobalt Fiftynine, San Diego, CA:

You are using words that you do not understand. Please look up the word secular. There is not one person during the election process that has accused any candidate of being too secular except perhaps those individuals from the religious right.

"Secular" is not used as a "pejorative" but being secular is something that in our democracy a candidate should strive to be. So are you saying that Obama is rejecting our secular form of government, this basic principle that is enshrined in the Constitution of the United States?! Which religion does he advocate, perhaps Islam? Christianity? His background gives him so many options, does it not?

You are proving why Obama supporters are so easily swayed by Obama's rhetoric and happy talk...you don't really understand the big words; you just know that they are sparkly, flashy, and sound really cool.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Questioning Your Logic — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:10:00 GMT

Pia, if you are "delusional" how would you really know that you are not?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

T.A. Ft Stewart, Georgia — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:15:35 GMT

My husband is currently deployed in Iraq and I have just returned. This was my second deployment and he is on his third. I am currently on leave in Ohio visiting my folks and my children. They stay with them when we both deploy. I am a realist, which pretty much means I am resigned that Barack Obama will be our Democratic candidate. I like him, I am impressed with him and his wife, but I think a lot of his solutions are very naive. He needs more time in the trenches so to speak, especially to garner the international clout he is going to need. We have serious issues, which will need the involvement of the international community to solve and we are going to need to build back the bridges the current administration burnt to solve them. The Clinton name still carries some weight in Europe. Barack Obama unfortunately doesn’t. It is just a fact, not an accusation. He’s the new kid on the international block. At this juncture in our history, we don’t have the luxury of allowing a president to learn on the job. We need someone who is going to know who and where to go to in Washington, to get things pushed through. Is he competent? Very much so, but is he competent enough, I don’t believe so. I personally like him much better than Hillary, but this is a presidency, not a popularity contest. I wish people would remember that from time to time.
All this greatly concerns me because I do agree with Mr. Johnson's post, that an immediate pull out will be disastrous. It would only ensure that we would be back in Iraq, 5-10 years max and to a much bigger mess. From my personal experience in Iraq, I can honestly say, that everyone is not going to suddenly start playing nice just because we left. It’s a great thought, that suddenly all the parties will come to the table and work out their differences, because we aren’t there interfering. It’s a very naïve, well intentioned thought. That pretty much sums up Barack Obama to me, a very idealistic, well meaning man who hasn’t been mugged by reality enough to realize that his solutions will get mired in Congress and that few that will get through, simply aren’t going to work.
I think Collin Powell's assessment of the situation in Iraq was right on the money," we broke it, we bought it". Should we have gone in..., who voted for it…., who didn’t…., who cares! It’s so very irrelevant, we are there. Stop discussing who spilled the darn milk and work on cleaning it up. Do I have the perfect solution for Iraq? No. Most every scenario I’ve seen that stands a chance involves a long commitment and I know our economy and we Army Families can’t take much more. The only thing I know for sure is we need get it right in Iraq this time around, because we will not get a second chance. I have two very good, pint sized reasons at home with my folks as to why I worry about getting this done right. I don’t want our children and their children still trying to fix it. Iraq isn’t going to go away, no matter when we leave it. If we are lucky, when we do finally leave, it won’t implode and actually be self-reliant and functioning. I don’t expect it to be perfect, just functioning enough so moms there aren’t scared witless to send their kids to school and people can get on with their lives. I do take heart in one thing, the kids. They are our future here in America and in Iraq, the Iraqi children love us and someday they will be the voters and the government, if we get this right. To me that is what HOPE really is, not just some placard in a feel good rally. Give me solid solutions and lose the fluff. That is what I want from my future president. Unfortunately, I don’t think I will be that lucky.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Justforkix, NJ — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:19:36 GMT

Those who can LEAD, those who can't WHINE about big crowds being BAD, inspiration being HOLLOW, those listening to be DELUSIONAL. Yet, the WHINERS will not take the time to do their homework and truly get beyond their own KOOL-AID slogans and learn if there is truly any substance or not.

Of course there is the KOOL-AID crowd...the lemmings who follow Obama because others are following. But guess what, the majority are not lemmings. And those of you who have other political leanings, argue your cause instead of the pathetic whining of "Oh, he has no experience", "Oh, he is all words", "Oh, what will happen to our already abused country"!!!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Ben Ceva, Missoula, MT — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:25:30 GMT

Are you tired of sending your middle and lower economic class kids to war so that the elite of this country can profit off of their blood? Are you tired of invading and manipulating middle eastern and central american countries to make up for the lack of economic infrastructure in our own nation? Ask yourself one question. Do you really believe that middle eastern and latin american leaders will actually listen or respect anything that Hillary Clinton has to say?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Murray Kay, North Carolina — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:28:13 GMT

LET'S LOOK AT WHO WE WOULD LIKE TO SEE AS PRESIDENT OF THE U.S.A. Would you rather have a CRUDE, COARSE NAME CALLING pair of (they've been there before) politicians, or a sophisticated considerate young man who REFUSES to partake in the gutter tactics of BILLARY. The intelligent choice for America is obvious. America needs CHANGE and we have to regain the respect of the world for the America that we can be.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

david garner toledo oh — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:35:06 GMT

its time for america to start taking care of her returing from war veterns,like in the days of olds this can only be done from the white down, a more stronger policy of health care for them thats affordable to them so that they are not left to fend for themselves homeless, suicide ,depression, i feels as tho obama wil be the man

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Independent, Independence, MO. — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:35:45 GMT

I like Barack Obama precisely because he's liberal, or "progressive" if you prefer. Michelle, I too, haven't felt this proud of my country in some decades. Don't back down, Senator. Do not back down.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

skweeky Sumter, SC — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:43:48 GMT

There needs to be a very thorough national discussion of liberalism and conservatism. Conservatives throw the word liberal around like it's a curse word. They dismiss anything that looks, smells, and acts like liberal as ungodly and disgusting. I understand their sentiments but do not agree. I have tried to understand conservatives I know and find that they concede nothing to any liberal idea. So let's have big media stage one of those public service debates on conservatism vs liberalism.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jerry B — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:44:05 GMT

Why does it seems that the nastiness of the democrats versus each other is heitened since Hillary has fallen behind, and seems at the end of her bid for the Nomination? If this is any indication of the CLinton Presidency and political style, it only confirms my feelings that Obama is the one to bring honest, real political and MORAL change to this election and country...

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Richard, Daytona, FL — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:45:44 GMT

Hope is an abstract concept; it is not a tangible item. Hope is as fleeting and temporary as emotions. It means something different to each and every person. If someone or a nation feels hopeful or full of despair, it is meaningless because it doesn't reflect reality. One can hope all one wants, it doesn't change reality because if it did, there would be no more diseases, war or poverty to name a few things I hope would change. When someone promises hope - run the other way toward reality, roll up your sleeves and get work. Only actions make changes.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

david garner toledo oh — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:55:21 GMT

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Sue, Chicago, IL — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:00:31 GMT

DJ - you are right that Obama didn't vote against the Iraq war and he wasn't in the Senate. But he was running for the Senate at the time, and took that stance in his speeches. It was a risky move, because most of the country was behind the war at the time. But everything he said about it then has turned out to be right.

Hillary has been attacking Barack's health care plan all along. There are pros and cons to both their plans. Pointing out some of the cons to her plan is legitimate campaigning. She should spend more time selling her plan and less time complaining about Barack's mailers.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Lyndsey, Florida — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:25:43 GMT

Umm. He IS a liberal and it IS a bad thing. Sorry to dissapoint you all.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Lyndsey, Florida — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:28:59 GMT

By the way, Liberalism is just another term for Communism. Liberals are Socialists and we all know how socialism turned out in other countries (AKA - Socialism is one step from Communism and usually turns into it).

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Laura, Sammamish, WA — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:31:27 GMT

Reading these comments is really entertaining...

Praising Obama for saying I'm black...

I thought Bill Clinton was barbequed for injecting racial overtones into this race. I was shocked since the MEDIA was disecting every vote into every possible category, i.e. black voters , white voters, female voters, male votes, educated, uneducated, affluent voters. Even one on Fox news gave a percentage of L.O. votes from: white evangelical voters. Wow, then when Bill Clinton was asked by a reporter what he thought about Obama receiving over 80% of the black votes in S.C., Bill Clinton (who was aware of the polls indicating the African-American votes would most likely go to Obama) answered that Jessie Jackson won S.C. twice and he ran a good campaign, and Barack Obama ran a good campaign. Well I still fail to see why he got barbequed for that. I like Jessie Jackson, he is a friend of Bill Clinton, and on the other channel Bill Schneider was by the charts showing results from S.C. and made the same comparison about Jessie Jackson winning in S.C. DOES ANYONE WANT TO SEE HOW THE MEDIA HAS CONTROLLED THIS ELECTION. HOW THEY ARE PLAYING THE AMERICAN PEOPLE FOR STUPID AGAIN.
AND I AM SORRY, BARACK AND MICHELLE OBAMA ARE USING THEIR RACE IN THE CAMPAIGN. YET, WHEN HILLARY BEGAN AND TALKED ABOUT BREAKING THE GLASS CEILING AND EQUAL PAY FOR WOMAN (WOMAN GET 78 CENTS, FOR EVERY $1.00 A MAN GETS FOR THE SAME JOB) SHE WAS CRITIZED.

THIRTEEN COUNTRIES HAVE WOMAN LEADERS RIGHT NOW IN THIS COUNTRY. SEXISM IS ALIVE AND WELL IN AMERICA. WOMAN IN THE UNITED STATES ARE TREATED LIKE SECOND CLASS CITIZENS. THE DISCRACEFUL WAY THAT THE MEDIA HAS TRASHED HILLARY CLINTON IS SICK. THE THINGS THAT I HAVE READ ON THESE BLOGS ARE SICK. WHAT KIND OF CHANGE DO YOU OBAMA SUPPORTERS WANT ANYWAY. WE KEEP ASKING WHAT EXACTLY ARE YOU HOPING FOR. BECAUSE THE WAY YOU TALK ABOUT OTHERS IS REALLY SICK. SOME OF THE COMMENTS ON THE POST ABOUT THE POLICE OFFICER KILLED IN TEXAS WAS SO DISRESPECTFUL AND SICK -- THE THINGS THEY POSTED ABOUT HILLARY CLINTON. THE FACT THAT MSNBC APPROVED THEM FOR POSTING IS EVEN MORE TELLING ABOUT OUR SOCIETY. AND OBAMA IS PROMISING CHANGE, WHY ARE HIS SUPPORTERS BEHAVING LIKE THIS?
OBVIOUSLY, DECENCY AND TREATING OTHERS WITH RESPECT ARE NOT THE KIND OF CHANGE YOU GUYS ARE WANTING.
I THINK BARACK OBAMA HAS FAILED TO TEACH YOU WHAT CHANGE HE IS SEEKING. ARE YOU SO INTO FEELING GOOD FOR A MOMENT? CATCH YOUR BREATH, AND THINK ABOUT OUR FUTURE.

G. W. BUSH WAS INSPIRED TO SPREAD DEMOCRACY IN THE MIDDLE EAST, STARTING WITH IRAQ. HE WAS INSPIRED TO SPREAD FREEDOM AROUND THE WORLD. LOOK WHAT HAPPENED TO OUR COUNTRY. THE NEO-CONS GOT HIM INTO OFFICE FOR THEIR PURPOSE AND BUSH WAS THEIR MAN WHO ALMOST HALF OF AMERICAN VOTERS VOTED FOR...HE WAS LIKEABLE AND VOTED THE ONE YOU'D MOST WANT TO HAVE A BEER WITH. AL GORE WAS CALLED "TOO STIFF" AND MADE FUN OF FOR SIGHING DURING THE DEBATES WHILE BUSH WAS MAKING SNIFFING NOISES. THEY TRASHED AL GORE IN THE MEDIA. HELLO AMERICA...LET'S WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE. JUST GOTA HAVE MORE THAN INSPIRATION TO FIX THIS SCREWED UP COUNTRY. WHO ARE THE PEOPLE BEHIND OBAMA, HE ISN'T RUNNING A ONE-MAN OPERATION. WE JUST DO NOT KNOW ENOUGH ABOUT OBAMA FOR THIS ELECTION. I THINK WE SHOULD GET TO SEE SOME GROWTH AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF HIS OVER THE NEXT FOUR OR EIGHT YEARS AND THEN WE CAN BE CONFIDENT HE WOULD BE A QUALIFIED PRESIDENT. NOW, I JUST SEE OBAMA FOLLOWERS MARCHING WITH BLIND FAITH. THIS IS HOW BUSH GOT INTO OFFICE. I KID YOU NOT, TODAY I TALKED WITH TWO FRIENDS WHO ARE SUPPORTING OBAMS -- I ASKED WHY. AND THEY REFUSED TO ANSWER ANYTHING BEYOND THEIR BEING INSPIRED AND EXCITED THAT SO MANY PEOPLE LIKE HIM. THEY SAID HILLARY ISN'T LIKEABLE. BUT, DON'T WANT TO HEAR THE "like to have a beer" bit,"
THEY SIMPLY DO NOT WANT TO HEAR ANYTHING ABOUT WHY ANOTHER PERSON DOES NOT THINK HE IS QUALIFIED OR ANYTHNG, AND THEY CAN OFFER NO ACCOMPLISHMENTS -- JUST LIKE HIS SPEECHS. WHEN I SAID HE PROBABLY HAS A SPEECH WRITER LIKE EVERY ONE ELSE, EVEN THAT'S OKAY. WOW...REALLY GETTING ENTERTAINING, ONLY THIS IS NOT TV, OR THE MOVIES, IT'S A PRESIDENTIL CANDIDATE WE ARE INTERVIEWING.

I WILL BE VOTING MY CONSCIENCE IN THE FALL.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Robert,Denver, Colorado — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:35:43 GMT

I love Republicans. Their leader has now gotten the USA in the deepest debt we have ever had. Liberal spending is what I call it. They have gotten us in a useless war in two countries, more liberal spending.
I hope, yes hope, Obama will put American Citizens first. Put the USA first in spending my tax dollars on us not them! I hope, yes their I go again, hope it happens. Scared republicans? You should be because Obama is going to win!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Cheryl McGregor, Phoenix, AZ — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:37:15 GMT

1. Experience means nothing. Some of our most inexperienced presidents were good while some of our most experienced presidents were the worst we have had. What matters is having a vision and being able to work with the senate and house of representatives to give that vision shape. What a politician promises they will do as president is only as good as his/her ability to deal with the congress. Remember that when you vote for your congressmen and senators - if you vote in a democratic president and a republican congress - YOU have created the scenario where nothing will happen and you only have yourselves to blame. If you want to know why our government gets bogged down and goes nowhere fast - read the federalist papers - it was planned that way.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Vince Lentini Phoenix , SX — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:40:25 GMT

I LOVE the clowns who say under a liberal Obama taxes go up.
FACT IS under that wonderful "compassionate conservative" W, the price of gas has DOUBLED ( guess that isn't a tax though) the cost of health care premium has gone up an average of 50% ( guess that isn't a tax) , foreclosures are at an all time high , the dollar is crumbling , jobs pay in real dollars less than ever , we invade an essentially unarmed sovereign nation based on lies but he didn't raise our taxes.......How patently absurd.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

John C., Cleveland, Ohio — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:42:04 GMT

I find it very amusing when these anti-Obama people start throwing out the "he'll double your taxes!" and "He's just an empty suit!". For the first, Hillary has proposed the same tax hikes, and they're not on middle class citizens Clintonites. Second, if you actually took the time to see what this man has done throughout his life, then maybe you wouldn't have such an uninformed opinion. Hillary has lost, the American people have spoken; if your Americans and want to see something real in this country, then stop trying to tear Obama down with mindless assertions. Do something positive.. try and beleive in something.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

marcuswatson — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:48:07 GMT

Why does Obama appeal to moderate Republicans and Independents? Surely, his call to finally obliterate the false lines of race, religion, region, and party strikes all good people as long overdue. Second, however, while Obama strives for liberal outcomes, such as affordable health care, he actually believes in the conservative idea of individual responsibility to attain these outcomes. Two examples: (1) When Obama says we’ve got to get up from our couches and video games in order to reach out and empathize with each other across politicized divisions, he’s saying, “If you want change, stand up and fight for it. The government is not going to just hand it to you.” (2) In refusing corporate sponsorship for his campaign, Obama is saying, “If you want the change I’m outlining for us, you’ll have to sacrifice by reaching into your pockets and fund this process yourselves.” This was his message to villagers when he visited his family in Kenya—he said they must take responsibility for their improvement. True to his word, Obama embraces what he feels are good positions, no matter their ideological or party association.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Richard Chapman Las Vegas NV — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:54:42 GMT

If you don’t like Obama that’s OK!
If you don’t understand why people do, it because your dumb!
If you think he’s not competent, you’re misinformed!
If you vote for anyone else, you’re ignorant!!
Absolute fact. Nixon; a big disappointment:
Regan, Smoke and mirror false hero:
GW Bush?? You voted for him twice!!
So, what is it again that makes us delusional?
Nether Bill Clinton the liberal or GW Bush the “enigma” was ready for the White House; however, Bill has the better record of the two!!
You guys chose the lack luster McCain over Romney??
I dare to question delusional?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Richard Chapman Las Vegas NV — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:58:24 GMT

Absolute fact. Nixon; a big disappointment:
Regan, Smoke and mirror false hero:
GW Bush?? You voted for him twice!!
So, what is it again that makes us delusional?
Nether Bill Clinton the liberal or GW Bush the “enigma” was ready for the White House; however, Bill the Democrat has the better record of the two!!
You guys chose the lack-luster McCain over the brilliant and successful Romney??
I dare to question delusional?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Frances Smith, Glendora, California — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:58:29 GMT

Kool-ade shmool-ade WHAT NONSENSE
I am a seventy-one-year-old white woman who has been interested in politics since I was eight years old. Not since Bobby Kennedy have I been so inspired by a candidate for president. Go Barack!! May God guide you and keep you safe.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

John Friedli — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 03:08:28 GMT

I have grave fears that Obama can talk the talk but cannot walk the walk. Talk is easy especially if you are chrismatic as he is, but chrisma will not get the job done at the White House.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jayson Buckley, Los Angeles, California — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 03:28:34 GMT

If Obama wins the nomination and beats that T-Rex-armed McCain i'm going to laugh in the face of every "no progress-conservative" republican moron! And there are a lot of them out there. Conservatism is the stagnation of civilization. You moron republicans have demonized a philosophy (liberalism) that has accounted for every great new idea in human history. The conservative philosophy should be demonized. To carry on the status quo because it benefits only a small portion of the population is maddening! It takes a liberal to create change and a conservative to stop progress. That is the truth, please accept it. Republicans are the bullies of this country, loud-mouthed elephant bahemoths. Eliminate the middle class..."make the rich richer and the poor poorer". Is that the philosophy you are proud to live by?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Angel , Brooklyn NY — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 03:31:15 GMT

What has Mr Obama spoken on Inmmigration or where does he stand on this issue. What is he planning on doing about housing? I want to know where does he stand on Housing and what does he plan to make it affordable. He talks about a change a new revolution but what has he done for the poor working American so they could afford a nice apartment with rent going up. He avoids these questions any never has given a straight answear on healt issues Housing and taxes. I don't believe everything he says. He is very mileading and not straight forward.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Fred C Dobbs Sierra Madre, CA — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 03:41:25 GMT

Is it true that Bill O'Reilly and the conservative media are about to break the Larry Sinclair story?

What the facts about this person?

Is this fact or fiction?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

James Jones — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 04:00:18 GMT

But if by a “Liberal” they mean someone who looks ahead and not behind, someone who welcomes new ideas without rigid reactions, someone who cares about the welfare of the people — their health, their housing, their schools, their jobs, their civil rights, and their civil liberties — someone who believes we can break through the stalemate and suspicions that grip us in our policies abroad, if that is what they mean by a “Liberal,” then I’m proud to say I’m a “Liberal.”

Obama defends 'liberal' label

P O, Chicago, IL — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 04:02:58 GMT

I'm a die hard "Liberal" but if Obama becomes or nominee I am going to vote for McCain. At least I'll know the country will be in good hands. He has no sense of foreign policy nor any experience to smooth over relations on the international field. Go Hillary!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

mordroke — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 04:06:33 GMT

Looks like some of the little Clintonian hatchet people are her tonight. The only thing they have going for themselves is volume but their words are larded with so much fear and anger because their great idol is going down in flames as I write these words. Suck it up, get over it, move on...get a life. You're even less persuasive than your cold glib faltering Hillary Billary is...she has accomplished almost nothing of vote in the senate, except to vote for a mindless lying war that few want anymore...

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Lewis Hobkins, Orlando Florida — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 04:18:52 GMT

I hope that Obama will be half the liberal Jimmy Carter was.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Barbara Goulter, San Francisco CA — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 04:21:01 GMT

This is for JoAnn and the rest who demand specifics about Obama's policies. If you're serious, you can find all your questions answered in his books and/or on his website.
As for experience, Lincoln ran for president with mothing behind him but a quarter century as a hick town lawyer and one single term in the Illinois House of Representatives; yet he did all right. Lyndon Johnson and Richard Nixon, in contrast, had both put in many years as senator and vice president, yet both made a mess of the presidency. If beltway experience is what you value most, draft Dick Cheney. But it's vision, eloquence, humane values and the ability to inspire that have characterized the truly great presidents.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

HP Boston — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 04:30:19 GMT

All you fools who have drunk the kool-aid will now be gladly handing the presidency to McCain. Thanks to you all.
Rusty, OKC (Sent Saturday, February 23, 2008 3:09 PM)

__________________________________________
DAM right we will vote McCain 2 0r 3 time if we play by OBAMA rules. No vote for that flimflam man of stupid platitudes and empty rhetoric. No experience and little judgement. Obama is an empty page so turn to a new book where you can read better things than drugs I did when I was stupid!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Mo Shaalan,Corinth,MS — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 04:41:04 GMT

It is clear that pretty soon the choice will be limited to Obama /Mc Cain. Democrates better realise this soon,or we will end up with a third (&? fourth)term of Bush policies.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jafar,San Francisco,CA. — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 04:42:57 GMT

HP Boston, your comment the best ever! in what is called "bamaclash" - backlash. I had tears laughing. I must however admit, I too have been swept by the biblical swoon of Obamania. Why?,two words: George Bush.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Dick Dumas,San Diego,(Chula Vista)CA — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 04:50:26 GMT

TO JoAnn McCoy 10420 Hwy 1078N Henderson

JoAnn - I cannot believe that you actually posted that long comment with all the questions you say barack has never answered - How could you possibly go on and on about this when 90 percent of what you ask has already been answered many times. In addition if you ever get around to checking Baracks web page , there too, are nearly all the answers to the questions you ask - they have been there many weeks for all to see- People should check out the candidate first before ending up looking like a fool saying there are all these things that havnt been answered when everything has been layed right out in front of them if they only cared to look instead of demeaning the candidate.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Soba, Clifton, NJ — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 04:53:05 GMT

USAFIRST11 (Sent Saturday, February 23, 2008 7:38 PM)

and LEE

Thanks for taking up the task of educating some of these half/ill-informed idiots. These are the same kind of people who contributed to electing bush for two terms. Good job.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Carol — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 04:55:38 GMT

Obama is successful because he use something that people has basically tossed out the window. Its called common sense or pragmatism. It explains his vision when it comes to the economy, education, foreign policy. Thats why he can turn experience on its head and make it seem like its a bad word its because the people who have experience havent used COMMON SENSE. They would rather use fear they would rather use pessimsm they would rather sit back and let Washington work them over rather than letting it work for the American people.

I find it laughable that Obama is seen as some messianic philosopher who says the magic words and people are in awe. All he is doing is using COMMON SENSE thats why he can turn that liberal argument on its head. Thats why people no longer cling to party labels. You may feel like you know what I cant see a child without healthcare thats wrong we have to provide healthcare for children then you say to yourself wait a minute I'm republican I dont want big government but you cant forget that child who has no health care so political party labels like liberal and conservative start losing their grip. You basically become a political mutt because you finally start applying COMMON SENSE.

Obama supporters are not delusional they are ENLIGHTENED.

Carol

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Mary, Illinois — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 04:57:18 GMT

I can't believe the pathetic group of presidental candidates we have. I don't like any of them. I think I may just STAGE MY OWEN PROTEST AND STAY HOME.

I guess those in charge just don't care about America or americans any longer.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Tom Johnson, Billerica MA — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 05:13:55 GMT

the democrats are crashing and burning, its going to be a George McGovern vs. a Richard Nixon, a liberal free spending Obama (the same type of hope the Dems gave us in the 60s and 70s) vs. an unlikeable but better than the Democratic candidate. I had pledged not to vote for a republican after the Bush years but the democrats ineptness will force me to vote McCain. With people like Nancy Pelosi and Obama leading the democrats, hold on to your wallets!!!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Mark, Milwaukee, WI — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 05:14:02 GMT

Sure people whoop it up at Obama rallies.
They are after all ..... "rallies".
What do you expect?

Most folks showing up for Obama have already examined the candidates and know which way they are headed toward Obama. Folks show up because they were pleasantly surprised with what they've already found out and are now enthusiastic about what he's offering. The rallys pump up that enthusiasm, reminding folks they are not alone and encouraging them to transform their beliefs and general support into some action.

As for those trying to learn a candidates issue positions, character and judgment based on a candidates rally performance... well that does seems rather rather silly to me. It's not like there aren't plenty of more accessible and superior opportunities for doing that.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Facingreality - Houston, Tx — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 05:21:17 GMT

Mark Kleiman, who knows this stuff extremely well, put it best:

Similarly, people often wonder whether Obama's call for a new kind of politics is just empty words. Here again, I think he has a real record to point to. He has consistently worked for ethics reform. In Illinois, where he helped pass what the WaPo called "the most ambitious campaign reform in nearly 25 years, making Illinois one of the best in the nation on campaign finance disclosure." In the US Senate, he was the Democrats' point man on ethics, and was deeply involved in the ethics legislation passed this year. He didn't get all he wanted -- for instance, he and Russ Feingold couldn't get a bill establishing an Office of Public Integrity to deal with Congressional scandals. But he accomplished a lot, and wants to accomplish more.

Moreover, he is very interested in open government. The searchable database of government grant and contract recipients that I mentioned above is part of that. But Obama's proposals (pdf) go further. For instance, consider these proposals:

* Centralize Ethics and Lobbying Information for Voters: Obama will create a centralized Internet database of lobbying reports, ethics records, and campaign finance filings in a searchable, sortable and downloadable format.

* Create a Public “Contracts and Influence” Database: As president, Obama will create a "contracts and influence" database that will disclose how much federal contractors spend on lobbying, and what contracts they are getting and how well they complete them.

* Expose Special Interest Tax Breaks to Public Scrutiny: Barack Obama will ensure that any tax breaks for corporate recipients — or tax earmarks — are also publicly available on the Internet in an easily searchable format.

* End Abuse of No-Bid Contracts: Barack Obama will end abuse of no-bid contracts by requiring that nearly all contract orders over $25,000 be competitively awarded.

* Sunlight Before Signing: Too often bills are rushed through Congress and to the president before the public has the opportunity to review them. As president, Obama will not sign any non-emergency bill without giving the American public an opportunity to review and comment on the White House website for five days.

* Make White House Communications Public: Obama will amend executive orders to ensure that communications about regulatory policymaking between persons outside government and all White House staff are disclosed to the public.

* Conduct Regulatory Agency Business in Public: Obama will require his appointees who lead the executive branch departments and rulemaking agencies to conduct the significant business of the agency in public, so that any citizen can see in person or watch on the Internet these debates.

These are all proposals designed to allow public scrutiny of the business of government. As I read it, one of Obama's goals in introducing them is to permanently alter the incentives politicians have. As long as legislators did not have to disclose their earmarks, there was no way of finding out that the person who stuck a favor for an obscure casino in one state into an appropriations bill was from another state entirely. There was therefore no way for that person's constituents to wonder why s/he was expending political capital on people outside the district, and no way for reporters to see just who was doing that casino favors. Once legislators have to own up to their earmarks, however, that changes. It won't make abuse go away, of course, but it does make it a lot easier for people to notice and object to the fact that their representatives are doing inexplicable favors for people they have no obvious reason for caring about.

Likewise, if all bills had to be posted to the internet five days before they were voted on signed (oops), it would be much, much more difficult for Congress to sneak some appalling provision through in the dead of night. If all contracts over $25,000 had to be competitively bid, certain sorts of corruption would be a lot more difficult to carry out. And if there were a database of tax breaks and tax earmarks, not to mention a database of lobbyists, it would, again, be much, much easier to track who was doing favors for whom, and why. (And I haven't even started on Obama's proposals (pdf, p. 5) to strengthen FOIA: "Barack Obama would restore the tradition of free information by issuing an Executive Order that information should be released unless an agency reasonably foresees harm to a protected interest.")

I think of these proposals, collectively, as a means of empowering journalists, bloggers, and random citizens to discover corruption and the abuse of power, and to bring the power of shame to bear on politicians who practice it. This clearly isn't all that Obama means when he talks about changing the way politics is practiced in this country. But it's part of it. And I think it's pretty powerful.

***

I sometimes wonder why, exactly, people go on saying all this stuff about Obama lacking substance. Sometimes, I suspect it's just laziness, as in the case of this dKos story in which mcjoan, who is usually much better than this, lists a whole lot of questions she wishes the candidates would answer, apparently unaware that Obama (and, for all I know, Clinton), has already answered most of them. I suspect, though, that part of it might be the assumption that idealism is necessarily woolly and misty-eyed and all about singing Kumbaya, while realism is necessarily cynical and disillusioned.

I have never believed this. There are certainly hard-bitten, cynical people who don't think particularly clearly about the world (Dick Cheney leaps to mind.) More to the point, I can't see any reason why there shouldn't also be people who are both genuinely idealistic and hardheaded at the same time. I suspect Obama is one of them. I do not for a moment imagine that he is perfect. (Cough, clean coal technology, cough cough.) But I do think that he's one of the best candidates I can remember, and that's good enough for me.

Posted by hilzoy at 10:48 PM in Politics | Permalink

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Joanne, colorado — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 05:25:05 GMT

Just a quick comment to all you obama supporters offended by being called a cult....stop acting like one and grow up. a little FYI for your o holy uniter of the american people. Your tactics, your phone calls, your blogs, your emails, and your flat out lies are so offensive that most Hillary supporters will never vote for Obama..NEVER. Obama O mighty divider of the democratic party!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Joanne, colorado — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 05:26:34 GMT

You are proving why Obama supporters are so easily swayed by Obama's rhetoric and happy talk...you don't really understand the big words; you just know that they are sparkly, flashy, and sound really cool.

LOL Well said!!!!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

snakebaby — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 05:29:32 GMT

Shame on you, Obamaha, the devil! He uses his rhetoric speeches with false change and hope to lure voters, then on the other side he uses the same Washington tactics against Clinton. Media seems to only know how to praise him, they never intend to wake up the fools out there for the truth! His looks now disgusts me: arrogant, cocky expressions on his long and thin face with ugly long, deep grooves around his lips that are literally lack of oxygen - a big sign of no hope! It no longer matters about the bad or good of Hillary, it especially doesn't matter how many good ideas this man has, I'll never vote for him, period!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Richard, Daytona Beach — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 05:31:41 GMT

The post by USAFIRST is a complete lie. I went to the US Senate website and looked-up Hillary's record and Obama' record. Hillary has authored, sponsored and passed over 700 pieces of legislation and bills while obama's record shows a little more than 200. And, Obama and Hillary have both been campaigning the same amount of time, but Hillary has managed to vote more often in DC during the past 2 years than Obama. If USAFIRST is going to lie and post cheap shots at Hillary- go somewhere else where stupid people will believe that crap.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

S. Wahab, Princeton, NJ — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 05:32:06 GMT

It is amazing to me how some people characterize and judge presidential candidates using conflicted and biased criteria at different times with different candidates. The same people who voted for GWB based on how nice to have a beer with him are now ridiculing people who are voting for Obama because they like what they hear and see from him. The people who voted for a man without any national or international experience who declared during his 2000 campaign that he didn’t care about the world are now challenging Obama because he only have 3 years experience in national and international politics.

The voices against an Obama "movement" are the ones the American people are waiting for their demise and disappearance from the political scene.

Just look at who is around McCain or Clinton and any unbiased observer will recognize the faces and the tactics hat have been around for so long that we are sick of it and the results they produced.

Dead wood must be discarded and new blood must be injected in our Nation's politics and tactics.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jake, Indianapolis, Ind. — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 05:39:32 GMT

I'd drink the KOOL-AID if Hillary hadn't gotten their plants shipped overseas...

God I am so tired of the dumb comments on here. In the words of David Cross..."Are we a nation of six-year-olds? Answer: Yes."

One of these two will be our nominee...which means 50% of you will be wrong. All this fighting will look very silly in a few months...and trust me, McCain is giggling all the way to the drape shop.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

M.T. Los Angeles, CA — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 05:52:55 GMT

You Clinton supporters are looking and sounding pathetic, and calling all the intellegent people I personally know, my mom, dad, most of my family and friends delusional is actually offensive, and shows YOU to be the ones that are truly delusional about what is apparently obvious to most people worldwide - AMERICA WANTS A CHANGE - almost every Hillary supporter I know supports her because of Bill and NOT HER ACOMPLISHMENTS. Bill isn't running for office people. Do some research, like finding out about Obama and the Lugar/Obama legislation(dealing with loose nukes), Obama/Calhoun - to name a few. I did the research and found that Obama record in the senate is very impressive and he's done it in less time that Hillary.

LOOK THINGS UP and don't be fooled by soundbites people.

GO OBAMA

M.T.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Diane,Chicago, Illinois — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 05:53:59 GMT

I must make a correction regarding the post that stated that Barack Obama provided Illinois residents with a Health Care Plan. As a resident of Illinois, who did vote for Obama for Senator, we do not, I repeat, we do not have a Health Care Plan. Obama did not even attempt to pass a Plan and does not have a Plan for us pending. Now as a Illinois resident, I am very disappointed in Obama as my state Senator. His record is a failure. He lost thousands of jobs that went to Mexico. The family that owned the corporation that owned Maytag plant donated thousands to Obama's campaign. He let Exelon pressure him to let a Nuclear plant's waste seep into our agricultural water supplies and then they also donated to his campaign. He has been a friend of Rezko a slumlord who was arrested by the FBI and is on trial in Chicago courts. Obama's friendship resulted in campaign donations from Rezko and real estate deal resulting in Obama paying $300,000 less for his million dollar home. So I have lost my respect for Senator Obama due to his lack of credibility to his constiuency in Illinois. I read all these blogs from all the media outlets, and not once have I read any of Obama's supporters refer to any facts about what exactly has he done for his state. No one has asked the poverty stricken Black residents who are still waiting for his help if they are satisfied with their Senator from Illinois. We fell for the same beautiful, inspiring rhetoric, the wide smile, the promises; well we are still waiting folks. So I as a college graduate and a professional educator I am tired of waiting and I will take my chances for change by voting for a woman, by the way a woman is change after 43 men as president. Since the men of the world haven't done such a grand job so far, I think a woman's perspective and ability to multi-task is in order. By the way, most other countries of the world have a history of electing women as their leaders; the US is one of the few that is still living in the Dark Ages, so why don't we progress to the Age of Enlightenment people. All this rhetorical Real Deal and Hope and Change is not going to put food on the table, a roof over your head, educate your children or bring our troops home; but hard work, perserverance, less arrogance and more humility, please. We have already suffered great loss from a president who gave us great I am a uniter not a divider speeches. I want someone who already is well respected by world leaders and will be able to show some humility to mend our foreign relations around the world.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

FJR in L.A., CA — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 05:57:37 GMT

SUBJECT: HISTORY LESSON ON HILLARY

The entire list below represents historical facts that are not in dispute anywhere.

So let's think about the logic of those who would consider, even for a moment, bringing anyone associated with the Clintons back into the White House-----especially Hillary.

The Clintons have been telling America that Hillary is the most qualified candidate for president based on her record,' which they say includes her eight years in the White House as First Lady - or "co-president" - and her seven years in the Senate.

In fact, in his stump speeches, Bill Clinton goes so far as to marvel at his wife's "genius" and repeatedly claims that he never made a major policy, legislative or political decision without consulting her during that 1st Clinton Administration.

So here is a PARTIAL list of her accomplishments, activities, and behavior during the past 15 years since they first ran for President in 1992:

1) As First Lady, Hillary assumed authority over Health Care Reform, process that cost the taxpayers over $13 million. She told both Bill Bradley and Pat Moynahan, key votes needed to pass her legislation, that she would 'demonize' anyone who opposed it. But it was opposed; she couldn't even get it to a vote in a Congress controlled by her own party. (And in the next election, her party lost control of both the House and Senate.)

2) Hillary also assumed authority over selecting a female Attorney General. Her first two recommendations (Zoe Baird and Kimba Wood) were forced to withdraw their names from consideration, and then she chose Janet Reno.
The same Janet Reno has since been described by Bill himself as 'my worst mistake.'

3) Hillary was also the person who recommended Lani Guanier for head of the Civil Rights Commission. When Guanier's radical views became known, her name had to be withdrawn....need more?

4) Hillary recommended three of her former law partners for Administration jobs: Web Hubbell, Vince Foster, and William Kennedy for positions in the Justice Department, White House staff, and the Treasury Dept., respectively.
Hubbell was later imprisoned, Foster allegedly committed suicide, and Kennedy was forced to
resign.

5) Hillary also recommended a close friend of the Clintons, Craig Livingstone, for the position of director of White House security. When Livingstone was investigated for the improper access of up to 900 FBI files of Clinton enemies (Filegate) and the widespread use of drugs by White House staff, both Hillary and her husband denied knowing him. (FBI
agent Dennis Sculimbrene later confirmed in a 1996 Senate Judiciary Committee hearing both the drug use and Hillary' s involvement in hiring Livingstone.
As a result, the FBI closed its White House Liaison Office, which had previously served seven presidents for over thirty years without any such incident.)

6) In order to open 'slots' in the White House for her friends the Harry Thomasons (to whom millions of dollars in travel contracts could be awarded), Hillary had the entire staff of the White House Travel Office fired; they were reported to the FBI for gross mismanagement' and their reputations ruined. After a thirty-month investigation, only one, Billy Dale, was charged with a crime - mixing personal money with White House funds when he cashed checks. The jury acquitted him in less than two hours.

7) Another of Hillary's assumed duties was directing the "bimbo eruption squad" and scandal defense. How competently did she perform? Just follow these dots:
She is the one who urged her husband not to settle the Paula Jones lawsuit. She also stubbornly refused to release the Whitewater documents, which led to the appointment of Ken Starr as Special Prosecutor. After $80 million dollars of taxpayer money was spent, Starr's investigation led to Monica Lewinsky, which led to Bill's lying about and later admitting the affair.
Then they had to settle with Paula Jones after all.
And Bill lost his law license for lying to the grand jury.
And Bill was impeached by the House.
And Hillary almost got herself indicted for perjury and obstruction of justice. She avoided it mostly because she repeated, 'I do not recall,' 'I have no recollection,' and 'I don't know' 56 times
under oath.

8) Hillary accepted the traditional First Lady's role of decorator of the White House at Christmas, but in a unique Hillary way. In 1994,
for example, the First Lady's Tree in the Blue Room (the focal point each year) was decorated with drug paraphernalia, sex toys, and pornographic ornaments, all personally approved by Hillary as the invited artists' depictions of the theme, 'The Twelve Days of Christmas.'

9) Hillary wrote 'It Takes a Village,' demonstrating her Socialist viewpoint.

10) Hillary decided to seek election to the Senate in a state where she had never lived. Her husband pardoned FALN terrorists in order to get
Latino support and the New Square Hassidim to get Jewish support. Hillary also had Bill pardon her brother's clients, for a small fee, to get financial support.

11) Then Hillary left the White House, but later had to return $200,000 in White House furniture, china, and artwork she had stolen.

12) In the campaign for the Senate, Hillary played the "gender card" by portraying her opponent (Lazio) as a bully picking on a poor woman.

13) Hillary's husband further protected her by asking the National Archives to withhold from the public until 2012 many records of their time in the White House, including much of Hillary's correspondence and her calendars. (There are ongoing lawsuits to force the release of those records.)

14) As a Senator from New York, Hillary has passed no major legislation. She has deferred to the senior Senator (Schumer) to tend to the needs of New Yorkers, even on the hot issue of medical problems of workers involved in the cleanup of Ground Zero after 9/11.

15) Hillary's one notable vote, supporting the plan to invade Iraq, she has since disavowed.

Again, all above are facts that are not in dispute. Together they paint a picture of a distburbing pattern of manipulation, deceipt, and bad judgement that her conduct of this campaign confirms, yet grossly understates.

Someone told me this resume, while impressive, feels more like it belongs to someone in a crime family.

Who Knew????!!!!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

sotiredofignorance — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 05:59:18 GMT

ummmm, folks, the Founding Fathers were liberal, and would have considered that to be a compliment. The most liberal idea of those times was that "free men could rule free men."(John Locke) If I were Senator Obama, I would be reminding people of that. In those days, the conservative position was staying aligned with Great Britain.

I have no fears about voting for a liberal. We have all seen how much more dangerous to our civil liberties, and to a reasonable economic and foreign policy the conservative position is.

I prefer to be known as a liberal, not a progressive or anything else. Just like the Founding Fathers and Mothers.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Skip Bragg — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 06:02:00 GMT

IT was deeply saddening that people of the Republican party attack Mrs. Obama on what she said without understanding it, because you would have to be fool not too. No she didn't mean it the way it came out. She has always been a proud American. But in the back of most people of colors mind is. Is America proud of me. And in his campaign for so many Americans to vote for Barack, I myself feel we really have turned a page and the content of one character out weighs any packaging. And if Cindy Mc'cain didn't understand the surprise and adjulation of Mrs.Obama then she is a mean spirited lady with no compassion. I respect her husband deeply because to me he reprsents the party of Lincoln and not Regan. After all people who live in glass houses should not throw stones.[Pharmaceutical]

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Diane,Chicago, Illinois — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 06:18:12 GMT

Obama defends 'liberal' label

bbussey, NJ — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 06:19:38 GMT

Jeremy Fontana of CA wrote: "JFK was a tax-cutter too. The tax cuts he implemented as president were, as a percentage of the overall economy, actually much larger than the Bush tax cuts of 2002..."

What you failed to mention is that the tax rate was a whopping 91% for top-bracket earners and 52% for top-bracket corporations back when JFK proposed the massive tax cuts in 1962. Thankfully JFK proposed them when he did (LBJ signed them into law in 1964), but those grossly unfair tax rates should have been rolled back years before then.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Barbara Welch Houston Texas — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 06:23:18 GMT

I feel that Ms. Clinton and Mr. Obama should think on the same D. ticket,if Hillary win Obama should be her vice, if Obama win Hillary should be his vice I like them both. They both want to accomplish solving the same issues, but just have different ideals on achiving them.

Barbara from Houston.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Douglas — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 06:47:50 GMT

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Michael, Staen Island, NY — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 07:12:01 GMT

Misleading headline.. Doesn't seem Obama's defending liberalism, but rather saying "Don't call my progressive policies 'Liberal'".

I'm still waiting for someone to say: "Yeah, my policies are 'liberal'. What's wrong with that? They are good policies."

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Sicnarfe — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 07:15:54 GMT

I'm just amused to read the ramblings from the reich-wing. They absolutely believe the nonsense they post ubiquitously. They are the real kool-aide drinkers, egged on by the organ grinders, Hannity, Limbaugh, O'Rielly and a host of other cackling turd-stirers.

I'd like to live in a civilized USA, where people can serve their God without pointing their damned finger at me because I'm not sympathetic to their delusions.

I'd like to turn on my cars radio without being lambasted by right-wing clowns, secular or non-secular.

I'd like to enjoy the same kind of health care services most other "civilized" developed nations offer their citizens.

I'd like to see my proud country, not puffed up with it's military might, but rather in its humility leading humanity towards a brighter tomorrow.

These are my LIBERAL values, we already know what values the right-wingers hold dearly, selfishness, greed, corruption.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Chris, Chicago, IL — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 08:33:39 GMT

I think that those who are making over a million dollars a year in taxable income will probably see a tax increase under a Democratic presidency. But that is not because the Democratic president would be liberal. It is because the Democrats are afflicted with a conscience for the future of this country. Perhaps we should credit the Democrats with this awful trait instead of condemning them. I would like to have a government and its programs for nothing, but in the real world, this is not how things work. The Republicans know that they have been selling the American people an empty promise since 2001 (of a tax cut for the majority of the American population) that they never kept. And now those of above moderate means have had a tax cut and our government has been with deficits for years, and our war expenses has never been placed within the Department of Defense annual budgets. Those who will pay will either be our future generations or those who have above moderate means after the present tax cuts expire.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Dee — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 08:38:42 GMT

The sign of a great leader is not someone who commands excellence; it is someone who can build excellence. Barack Obama has shown the ability to attract and motivate and, most of all, inspire. These are such important qualities for our next president to have.
Obama has shown he has strong character, drive, energy, determination and self-discipline, and has shown the ability to work successfully with all parties involved in the political system. Underneath the continually distorted news media sound bites I see a candidate who has the ability to verbalize his vision. He can guide us, the people; to want to do, what we know must be done.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:01:50 GMT

To Melissa,

While examining legislative records can be informative, it is important to remember that President's do not introduce or vote on legislation. It is not within a President's constitutional power.

Congress introduces and votes on legislation. The President can suggest or urge members to draft, introduce and vote on legislation but nothing more.

If Congress does not agree with the President regarding certain legislation, there is little the President can do to make it happen.

To make any changes or implement programs and ideas, the next President will need Congress to get on board. If Congress is unwilling to do so, it will be a very long 4 years and we will AGAIN have nothing but gridlock to show for it.

Have any of the candidates shown credible evidence that they can get a majority of Congress to back them? I know McCain has worked across the aisle as has Obama, I don't know about Hillary.

It is NOT just about winning the White House.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:09:14 GMT

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:10:19 GMT

For starters, look at the way he has run the campaign from the decidely POSITIVE DEBATES to his highly SUCCESSFUL FUNDRAISING strategies through grass roots ORGANIZATION BUILDING to PRUDENT SPENDING OF CAMPAIGN CASH to creating a groundswell of interest among a large number of voters who would otherwise be sitting in sidelines. And all this, from a man starting from nowhere and being a complete underdog.

So what's his plan after he wins? Where does he start?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:14:01 GMT

Michael,

I remember when Reagan met with Mikhail. Mikhail was a new kind of leader for the Soviet Union. He represented change that the country wanted and needed.

Whoever takes over following Fidel (probably Raul) will represent the same administration that has ruled Cuba since Castro took over.

I actually agree with Hillary's position and I will never vote for her: demonstrable change before sitting down to talk.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:20:32 GMT

From hope against the machine:

Barack Obama is the only candidate in the presidential race that not only did not support the Iraq War from the start, but also chastised our government for conducting foreign policy out of fear instead of strength.

Well, DUH. He wasn't even a Senator in 2003. Could that be why he didn't vote for it? Hmmmm.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:23:01 GMT

From Hope against the Machine:

While there are very good reasons not to believe that Obama can actually affect change like he's promising, Steve Jobs is at least one example to show us that a single, unique, compelling leader can make a substantial difference.

HUH? We should vote for Obama because he's like Steve Jobs?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:24:24 GMT

From hope against the machine:

With Obama's victory we will regain our self-respect and earn the respect of the world. We will again be proud to call ourselves Americans.

Well for me I've always been proud to be an American, despite the administration in office at the time.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:27:45 GMT

MOre from hope against the machine:

The result? A genuine excitement that expresses itself in overflowed arenas wherever Barack Obama speaks. He is a unique spirit that gives each of us permission to think that things can be good again. Obama provides a certain type of positive leadership that makes people stop and think: "Could we really be this optimistic? Is that really possible?"

I"ve always been optimistic and believed I can make things happen in my life. I'm an American and that is how real Americans think.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:35:43 GMT

From an earlier poster:

senator obama uses I,us and our more often than not.
senator clinton though, uses I,me and my the most. somehow i see this relates to "we the people"

Words do not change into money and votes that make things happen.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:37:45 GMT

Don, re your post:

Yea obama is a LIBERAL all right. Only certain groups in this country will have his ear if he is ever elected president.

Yeah, moveon.org, Code Pink (the ones who protested against the Marine recruitment center in Berkeley just to name a few)

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:39:43 GMT

From an earlier post:

So, yeah, I drank the Kool-Aid and it tasted damn fine. A cult? What an insult but if you must describe it that way, it is a cult that honors intelligence, talks to those who disagree, is tolerant and respectful of those who disagree, who understands that people who disagree on some things can agree on others and work toward the common good.

So how's this going to turn into the money and the votes in Congress to make Obama's plans really happen?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:49:08 GMT

Jasmine,

I HAVE visited Obama's site, read some of his policy papers and parts of his blueprint for change. They are woefully lacking in detail.

He does not sufficiently explain the source of the funds for his programs. He does not explain how he will pay down the debt. He does not explain how he will bring Congress on board or even what role We the People will play. What happens when Congress will not go along with him and send him legislation that he wants? As President he has no power to introduce and vote on legislation. What will he do?

On foreign policy/trade: He wants to amend/alter NAFTA. Mexico and Canada have made it crystal clear that they see no issue with NAFTA. What will he do in the face of a refusal to talk? Pull out of NAFTA. Given our interconnectedness with Mexico and Canada in terms of trade, that would be a disaster for our economy and for many regular working Americans.

As a Senator he has undoubtedly voted on appropriations bills and therefore should have some detailed ideas about the price tag for his programs. If he does not that raises a red flag for me.

Change, hope and unity are nice words, but just words. They cannot be made into the necessary funds and votes in Congress that he will need.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:54:24 GMT

To the best of my recollection, she has never had an executive experience,

(from an earlier poster on Hillary)

News flash: NONE of the front runners has had executive experience.

The candidates who did aren't going to win: Huckabee, Romney, Richardson.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:58:55 GMT

Actually, I think Barak Obama has the vision and momentum to cause sweeping change and positive inspiration in this country and I do think he will bridge people together.

Okay, I keep reading this over and over and over, but I don't read any explanation of HOW he will do this and not so incidentally how much it's gonna cost me.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

No Free Lunch — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 10:07:25 GMT

Ade,

Have you ever spoken to someone from Cuba? Do you even know anyone from Cuba? Your statement about poor Cuba is hilarious. Do you have any idea what Castro DID when he threw out Battista?

Have you ever heard of the Cuban missile crisis?

Feel sorry for the Cubans who have suffered and died under Castro. THEY are the true victims.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Dubbs — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 10:33:16 GMT

Us Liberals are proud to be so and should be. I was a little disappointed at first when I read the article and thought that he should have defended liberalism. I believe that the point he was trying to make was that the solutions he was speaking of can't be forced into a label. The world 'liberal' has so many meanings depending on who you say it to. For example what would Noam Chomsky say about the word and what would Glenn Beck say about the word? He will not sink so low as to categorize his views so that they may be so easily judged by those that are lazy and ignorant.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Carol, Lakeland, Fl. — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 11:07:38 GMT

Obama reminds me a lot of Jane Fonda. You Obama supporters would sell your sole to the highest bidder, and you all think all the freebees are not going to cost you, fat chance, nothing in this life is free, get off your lazy ass and quit expecting everything for 0. He's offered to give away everything plus the farm and how do you suppose he is going to pay for that. Oh I forgot you all think it's free!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Kim, NLV, NV — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 11:10:41 GMT

I think Obama is lassoed to the policies of John Kerry and Ted Kennedy to mention two. I also think he is lassoed to the tenets of the Trinity United Church of Christ. I was appalled to find out that he is sponsoring legislation, the Global Poverty Act that would mandate $845 billion over 13 years to countries were people make less than $1.00 per day. Folks that .7% of our GDP. Wonder what countries that would include? Where will the money come from???

Ah, and that is so much better than NAFTA! NAFTA was a good idea-especially with Mexico as it was hoped it would provide well-paying jobs there and cut down on illegal immigration here, but it failed. But AT LEAST it had people working for their wage. You start giving money to foreign governments directly the people that need it most certainly are not going to see it. A good deal of the problems in these 3rd world countries lie in the corrupt governing of them. This is a worse idea than NAFTA by far.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Carol,Lakeland, Fl. — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 11:11:02 GMT

Someone said on this blog Obama just needs to get good people around him because he is a fast learner, I think thats what Bush did. Pretty Scary

Obama defends 'liberal' label

NY Jill 59 year old female — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 11:55:17 GMT

Was it experience that we have had the last 7 years in foreign policy that we are so respected in the world today? Was it experience that spent our tax money on Monica Lewinsky? What experience are we talking about? Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Google, Warren Buffet, were all new kids on the block at one time. They seemed to have navigated experience with hope and a vision.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Paul — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 13:09:33 GMT

Gee, all you right wing buts out there, I remember another candidate who 'had no record of accomplishment, no real plans about anything, and just gave great speeches that whipped up the crowds. His name - Ronald Wilson Reagan.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

WDRussell, East Liverpool, Ohio — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 13:33:58 GMT

j,cs, co, you made a great list of why people should vote for Sen. Obama. I'm sure that wasn't your intention.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Jay Arr — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 14:14:34 GMT

Well, Hillary's on the ropes..and she knows it,along with Obama, which just makes her tougher.Despite all of her abundant qualifications and experience there is just too much disillusionment built up over the last 30 years (started by Reagan)on the domestic front, and the Clintons were visible through most of it. The Bushes and the Congress finally spilled the bucket of despair on us, and the people are ripe for a political messiah-a phenomenon like Obama. I know hard-core Republicans who have always hated the Clintons, disgusted with Bush, seriously supporting Obama. What is going on ? I hope, if Obama is nominated, the Dems don't regret dumping one of the brightest, and seriouly compassionate and understanding woman since Eleanor Roosevelt. Despite all the sound and fury the GOP will go to any length to prevent Hillary from being President-she would begin an exodus of alot of 'slime' from DC-and she knows them all. They'll stay with Obama for awhile and try to buy, corrupt, and manipulate him like they always do-hopefully to no avail.Goodbye Hillary; depite it all, we love you, and History will vindicate you in the end.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

bc Indiana — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 14:23:07 GMT

The Founding Fathers of this Nation were 18th century Enlightenment thinkers. They were the liberals of their day. They were dyed in the wool radicals in fact. They participated in a revolution.

All those who dismiss Obama on foreign policy need to listen more carefully. He's not afraid to fight, he just wants this country to fight smart.

Just remember... liberals pull triggers too....

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Aging Hippie — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 14:57:37 GMT

The most critical point is to stop the trend of plutocracy and theocracy that began in the 1950's with the so-called "Red Scare" (not actually a campaign against Communists, but a campaign against "Godless Communists", an Inquisition).

Of the candidates we're offered, Obama comes closest to reversing the damage to the Constitution. He isn't very close, Paul Wellstone would have been a better choice, but he's the best we have. Corporatist Clinton, Flip-flopping lobbyist hugger McCain, and Christofascist Huckabee are all much worse.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Lola, Austin, TX — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 15:02:40 GMT

I was at the rally in Austin. To say there is something wrong with the man having a lot of supporters is really dumb. Do you prefer Bush who has to go to Africa to find people who enjoy looking at him and hearing him talk? To all the Clinton supporters who say his supporters are delusional. Please take a look at other political rallies and you will see that all people show their love for their candidate by holding up signs and screaming. You get real. This is what democracy looks like. You just haven't seen it in awhile.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Aging Hippie — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 15:10:40 GMT

We had better hope Obama gets the nomination.

As a center-right Republican pretending to be a Democrat, Hillary fails to excite the base and get out the vote. But as a public figure, she excites hatred, often without cause, among radicals and moderates. Her candidacy would ensure another 4 years of Republican abuse of our Constitution and Imperialist foreign policy by the neo-neocon McCain and his lobbyist girlfriend.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Carol, Tampa, Fl. — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 15:14:23 GMT

I can hope to win the Lottery also, so much for hope you Obama supporters. I am a Democrat that is not a left wing Liberal like Obama and the Media. People why do you think the press is always giving him a free pass, they are just like him, left wing nuts.
Anyone one that Kicks their AMERICAN FLAG PIN IN THE GUTTER I HAVE NO RESPECT FOR AND I AM SURE A LOT OF DEMOCRATS FEEL THE SAME WAY AND I AM SURE ARE MILITARY IS NOT TO HAPPY ABOUT THAT EITHER. ITS NOT ENOUGHT OBMAM JUST LIED ABOUT OUR MILITARY NOW HE DISRESPECTS THEM, THATS CALLED A LEFT WING LIBERAL NUT BALL. Democrats for Hillary or McCain. Moderate Democrats do not vote for Liberals.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

lasster — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 15:35:33 GMT

"Anybody who doesn't understand by now this guy is the Real Deal is just clueless"

A lot a people thought that James Jones was the real deal/ Kool aid anyone?

Obama defends 'liberal' label

lorraine dillon — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 15:41:24 GMT

#1 to say that the Governer of Mass,is a friend. A friend that the first day in office he went out and bought a brand new Catalac car and $10,000 worth of curtains on the tax payers money.And Ophra,with all her money besides her backing Obama,because he's black,she probably has people putting money into his campain under others names that she is giving the money too.He has the pied pipers touch but that is all.Wake up America,this is all about a black man getting into the office.If you listen to the black race "all they say ,is BOUT TIME WE GOT ONE OF OUR OWN IN,HE DO FOR US NOW. They don't even care about what the country needs..

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Phillip Scranton, PA — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 15:48:24 GMT

Every time I hear Clinton I give a little more money to Obama. I speak with my wallet. Any of you right wingers or Democrats who bash Obama I just give a little more money. Keep it up and he's going to win Pennsylvania. Sorta like the Knicks complaining the Bulls was winning all the championships with Jordan. The year they go to the Finals Jordan was out.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Sharon — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 16:01:41 GMT

The US is still the most backward of the developed world . Yet they want to deliver their so called brand of demcoracy to other countries such as Cuba, Iraq etc. Oh please!! This is a nation built on the slave trade which still has an effect on many blacks here today. I hear so many ignorant comments from many Caucasians still trying to marginalize and malign the lone black candidate.This is old rhetoric from years of treating minorities as inferior. It is a sad fact in the United States. Yet it is good to know that many Caucasians are open minded enough to support Barack Obama.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Mark Bergman Kansas City MO — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 16:05:00 GMT

Inspirational speeches don't carry any weight. People who are charismatic and build a coalition of followers who find hope in their vision. Anyone who can believe we can change this country to be back on track as the leader of the free world and a shining light on the hill are obviously nuts!!

Regards,
Ronald Reagan
Winston Churchill
Abraham Lincoln
Martin Luther King
John F Kennedy
Robert Kennedy
Teddy Roosevelt
F. D. Roosevelt

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Blinky, Dallas, TX — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 16:06:37 GMT

EEEEK! Higher taxes? Taxpayers pay and pay and pay when there is a war to to pay for. The war was important to a Republican President and the costs are astronomical. This war was supported and authorized by a now Democratic Presidential hopeful (obvious by her vote).
Had she voted against the war? She might actually have a chance.
Support our troops!!!! Definitely!
Support the ongoing war? Why spend taxpayers' money on something we obviously can't, and shouldn't have to pretend to afford.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Steve, Cumberland MD — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 16:10:04 GMT

As an independent who will be voting for Obama, I think the people who are really delusional are the people that just repeat the same Hillary and McCain lines: "He's just talk, no substance!" or "He's going to raise taxes by the trillions!"

If you are one of the many who think that Obama is all talk no substance, you are not paying attention. Go to his website and you will see endless pages of policies and proposals. You can download his 70 page policy book if you want. Obama has the substance, he has the specifics. What the people should start asking is where are the specifics for John McCain? Has anyone actually read his proposals? The man says very little, except offering more of the same failed Bush policies.

And finally, we will be hearing the right wing again and again saying "Obama will raise taxes by the trillions!" What they dont mention is that his only tax hike will be letting the Bush tax cuts on the wealthiest 1% of America expire. Of course they dont mention that Obama will be cutting taxes on the middle class making less than $75,000 and the elderly.

If you are repeating the same old Clinton and McCain soundbytes you heard the other day on CNN, you're not paying attention. Do yourself a favor and get informed.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

pat — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 16:17:02 GMT

If you like what conseratives and blue dog dems (they think like cons)have done to this country these last 7 years , and want more of the same ,vote for McCain or Hillary, as for me I am a proud liberal that does not like the direction my beloved country is going and do not want my govt to treat me like they are treating iraqs by taking away by rights..I will vote for the candidate that says they is no white america,there is no black america, there is no cons. or dem america, there is one america ..Thats my guy..I want change not same old..A proud to be a liberal Obama supporter

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Chris Dent, Edinburgh, UK — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 16:28:22 GMT

"We are already starting to lose our strongest allie against Terrorism, Britian, because of the possibility of Obama getting nominated."

WHAT are you talking about? As a Brit, I can tell you that the Obama nomination has NOTHING to do with Britain pulling out of the "war" on terror. The British people have never supported your imperialistic war; Tony Blair hijacked the labour party and bent over for Bush. Gordon Brown has been planning to pull troops out of Iraq since before Obama's name was in the headlines. Further, where is your proof of Obamas inexperience? Honestly Hillary does not have much more...and McCain is a warmonger... so your choices are limited!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Debra Austin, Texas — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 16:54:02 GMT

Hillary can only play in the pig sty she has created for herself. If you are claiming that your candidacy is based on "35" years of experience, then you have to own your positions during those years. The fact that Hillary has "changed" her position just recently on NAFTA doesn't let her off the hook for her support of it up until the election. And her primary issue of universal health care has been to mandate all people get health care. She has even said, garnishing wages may have to be used to enforce this. What is the issue here other than Hillary not wanting to face her "record" in a state like Ohio. Let's "get real" Hillary.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

s.longley — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 17:11:11 GMT

We are trillions of dollars in debts, Obamas spending programs are trillions of dollars and he has not shown anyway to reduce the deficit and pay his for his programs, Hillary was part of the clintons that eliminated that last huge deficit, vote your head and your pocketbooks and for your country not your "feelgood momment

Obama defends 'liberal' label

chris callen, — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 17:12:20 GMT

Let me tell a story....there was once a man who cured the sick,gave comfort to the down trodden,told us that blessed are the peace makers,cast out the money traders at the temple,which upset the conservative priests who eventually crucified him,told us that it`s harder for arich man to enter into the kingdom of heaven than it is for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle, a man who cured the sick on the sabbath and when confronted by the conservatives said the sabbath was made for men not men for the sabbath,a man who told us love your fellow man as you would love him,turn the other cheek,love those that will villify you....have we forgotten these principles,have the so called christian conservatives forgotten that Jesus was a liberal who cared for his enemies as much as he cared for his friends.....when he was arrested in the garden by the soldiers of the temple and Peter drew his sword and injured a guard he said those who live by the sword will die by the sword..have you all forgotten....If so,why bother let`s destroy each other,kill each other because no one will be around to say I told you so!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

s.longley bend oregon — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 17:21:06 GMT

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Proud Liberal, Buffalo NY — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 17:25:56 GMT

The Orwellian tactics and doublespeak of the conservative right have made being a liberal the equivalant of being Jewish in Nazi Germany. They have been at it a long time. Every chance they get they vilify someone as 'Liberal'. Ann Coultor's many books are a perfect example of the Republican propoganda machine doing it's dirtiest work. The only way to stop propaganda is by identifying these statements as what they are each time you hear them. You can also through in 'War on Terror', 'Clean Air Act' and 'Patriot Act' into examples of doublespeak. The phrase War of Terror is meant to terrorize us into giving Gearge Bush exactly what he wants. The Clean Air Act eliminated many of the regulations on Coal Burning electricity plants. The Patriot Act allows the unwarranted search and seizure of personal property by our governement and suspends Habias Corpus all in the name of fighting terrorists.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Blaise Marcoux, Rockport, Indiana — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 17:49:11 GMT

What annoys me about all of this is what annoyed me about the 2004 election. A man who had never been in the army was going to question a military man's patriotism all thanks to what? Liberalism. Apparently, this is also good enough to attack Senator Obama with. This is interesting, seeing as how both conservative and liberal views seem to always be shortsighted: only searching for the same or only looking for change. As much as Obama preaches about change, he will still be the product of whatever party supports him. Hopefully, one day, we will get a TRUE moderate in office. In the meantime (in my personal opinion), I say pick your poison and Obama is the sweetest tasting one so let's just go with that.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

hank balto md — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 17:56:46 GMT

THERE IS NO CHANGES WITH OBAMA AND HIS USUAL WASHINGTON POLITICAL TATICS EXCEPT THE MEDIAS HELP AT HIDING HIS RECORD OF SUPPORTING THE WAR AND BUSH. WHAT OBAMA SUPPORTERS ARE AFRAID TO REALIZE. "Senator Obama has some questions to answer about his dealings with one of his largest contributors, Exelon, a big nuclear power company. Apparently he cut some deals behind closed doors to protect them from full disclosure in the nuclear industry."Obamas record shows he supports the war, voted twice in 2006 against bringing America's troops back home. He voted for war appropriations giving our money to Halliburton and Blackwater. His latest bit of posturing S 433 allows the Bush Administration to suspend any troop withdrawal!!!!if not suspended, still keeps the troops in Iraq for a long time to come? Obama when faced with tough choices always gave in to pressure from the Bush administration or corporate lobbyists. Such as Obama voted for Bush's energy bill, sending more than $13 billion in subsidies and tax breaks to oil, coal, and nuclear companies. Obama voted with Republicans to allow credit card companies to raise interest rates over 30 percent, INCREASING STUDENT LOANS RATES AND FEES increasing hardship for families. Obama voted for one of Bush's top priorities - expanding Nafta to South America - even as President Bush obstructed all the top Democratic priorities. Obama voted with Bush to make it harder for ordinary people to hold big corporations accountable when they do things like sell toxic toys, poisonous pet food, human food or just plain rip you off. Obama was the Senate's biggest Democratic advocate of subsidies for liquid coal, even though liquid coal produces twice the global warming pollution of the crude oil it's meant to replace and voted for increased subsidies, albeit with conditions.Obama, a Hamiltonian believer in free trade and supporters of globalization has lent his support to the "Hamilton Project formed by corporate-neoliberal Citigroup chair Robert Rubin and other 'Wall Street Democrats' to counter populist rebellion against corporate tendencies within the Democratic Party. Obama provided assistance to pro-war candidates (such as Joe Lieberman). Obama voted for "business-friendly 'tort reform' bill that rolls back working peoples' ability to obtain reasonable redress and compensation...from corporations!!! Obama considers single payer universal health care too socialist and has stated that he prefers voluntary solutions. **He voted against requiring medical care for aborted fetuses who survive. Abortion opponents see Obama's vote on medical care for aborted fetuses as a refusal to protect the helpless. Some have even accused him of supporting infanticide. He supported allowing retired police officers to carry concealed weapons, but opposed allowing people to use banned handguns to defend against intruders in their homes. And the list of sensitive topics goes on. With only a slim, two-year record in the U.S. Senate, Obama doesn't have many controversial congressional votes which political opponents can frame into attack ads. But his eight years as an Illinois state senator are sprinkled with potentially explosive land mines, such as his abortion and gun control votes. recent land purchase from a political supporter who is facing charges in an unrelated kickback scheme involving investment firms seeking state business. Obama has no substance. He has provided no solutions.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Dennis Hawley, Asheville, NC — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 18:16:58 GMT

Lots of whining and sniveling about Obama from the crowd of losers that continue to support the discredited, extremist, anti-democratic Moron-in-Chief. These clowns cannot cite any accomplishments (unless one considers a push towards a fascist plutocracy an 'accomplishment'). For such a small percentage of Americans, they sure are shrill in their nervousness.
Get used to it, wingnuts. Your time has GONE!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Anonymous Piedmont California — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 18:50:20 GMT

Idiots like Gary Stevens whining about tax increases just blow me away. So, Gary, you'd rather that the country drown in the sea of red ink that our deficit has become? You'd rather keep our troops in Iraq for another hundred, no make that a thousand, Senator McCain, years? I got a suggestion for you, Gary. Since you support the "no tax increase" stance of George W. Bush and Senator "Insane in the Brain" McCain, why don't you sign up for their pet war? McCain assured us Iraq is totally safe. Go there and help out your taxpaying brethren, dude. Let someone else come home. Oh, yeah, and don't forget NOT to request any medical benefits if and when you get back - you wouldn't want to raise taxes, would you?

Sheesh, the stupidity level is just climbing by the day.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

MG, Charlotte, NC — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 20:08:59 GMT

A president ENABLES his/her country to do great things...talent for 'enabling' is vision, ability-to-influence and passionate inspiration. Tell me what Clinton or McCain have in their arsenal to speak to the above. NOTHING. Barack Obama IS the next leader of the free world and will make us proud. It ain't kool-aid, 'my friends'. Its called an educated-selection. Do the same: http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/2/20/201332/807/36/458633

Obama defends 'liberal' label

russell smoot — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 20:33:13 GMT

You go Hilary and thank you for hanging in there.NAFTA at the time was go for us because of Bills great economics we all were doing great.Its time for all the shuck and jive to stop on Obamas part and get real.Obama is like a new toy at chirstmas,then you wonder why you even wanted it.

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Larry Sinclair (Whitehouse.com command center) — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 21:01:38 GMT

Quit shoving Obama down my throat!

Obama defends 'liberal' label

Joseph Hill, Worcester, MA — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 21:27:02 GMT

The headline is very misleading....Obama wasn't defending the "liberal label" at all. It's obvious from what is quoted here that he was defending HIMSELF from being LABELLED a "LIBERAL".