The AP is pushing back on Palin's claim to have killed the "Bridge to Nowhere." This could be embarrassing for McCain.
Was she vetted?
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Talk Shows
So far no TeeVee sighting of Palin on talk shows. I'm convinced that the republicans will do all they can to limit her exposure to MSM...we all know how driven the reporters are to get an accurate story. Palin seems bright and energetic, which is a plus for JM, but nobody could be ready for the onslaught that is about to hit her. There's simply too much too learn in too short a time.
The learning curve involves not just information but delivery, body language, choice of words, and confidence. Palin seems to be able to deliver a stump speech fairly confidently, but let's remember that she is mostly singing her life story - not nuancing a policy position to eliminate inconsistencies.
At some point, she will no longer be able to dodge the spotlight. Her performance under trying conditions will speak volumes about her abilities and potential and could go a long way in convincing voters one way or another. McCain cannot keep her from the public - there are just too many unknowns. He must let her sink or swim.
Many conservative writers are not happy with this pick, especially the foreign policy type. The narrative in the MSM has gone from what seems like pleasant surprise to mild disbelief. Risk, gamble, unknown, inexperienced are all words being used to describe this pick.
I might add that reporters have not had time to vet the story line that Palin and McCain are pushing regarding the Alaskan bridge to nowhere. Story is that Palin, being the maverick that she is, blocked a federal earmark for a bridge. There are some newspaper reports that cast doubt on this storyline - for a candidate already embroiled in one lying scandal, not being honest on your first day could spell doom.
The learning curve involves not just information but delivery, body language, choice of words, and confidence. Palin seems to be able to deliver a stump speech fairly confidently, but let's remember that she is mostly singing her life story - not nuancing a policy position to eliminate inconsistencies.
At some point, she will no longer be able to dodge the spotlight. Her performance under trying conditions will speak volumes about her abilities and potential and could go a long way in convincing voters one way or another. McCain cannot keep her from the public - there are just too many unknowns. He must let her sink or swim.
Many conservative writers are not happy with this pick, especially the foreign policy type. The narrative in the MSM has gone from what seems like pleasant surprise to mild disbelief. Risk, gamble, unknown, inexperienced are all words being used to describe this pick.
I might add that reporters have not had time to vet the story line that Palin and McCain are pushing regarding the Alaskan bridge to nowhere. Story is that Palin, being the maverick that she is, blocked a federal earmark for a bridge. There are some newspaper reports that cast doubt on this storyline - for a candidate already embroiled in one lying scandal, not being honest on your first day could spell doom.
More Wood
More wood to stack today. We hope to burn 5 cords this winter. I'm also planning to add insulation and plug up any air leaks - this won't be easy as our home is built well.
I'm a little worried about those that are unable to burn wood. Some in my family are having a difficult time with energy bills - one of my relatives recently told me that they cut their wood order in half because of the rising cost of cord wood.
This is simply not going to get cheaper, only more and more expensive. Our country is in dire need of alternative forms of energy that can be retrofitted to homes. Government subsidies that accelerate these technologies and make it more affordable for homeowners would spark an entrepreneurial revolution in our country. New homes could have these technologies built-in, while existing homes would receive retros.
This cannot be more difficult than when we moved plumbing indoors, or sending a man to the moon, or splitting the atom. We can do this.
I'm a little worried about those that are unable to burn wood. Some in my family are having a difficult time with energy bills - one of my relatives recently told me that they cut their wood order in half because of the rising cost of cord wood.
This is simply not going to get cheaper, only more and more expensive. Our country is in dire need of alternative forms of energy that can be retrofitted to homes. Government subsidies that accelerate these technologies and make it more affordable for homeowners would spark an entrepreneurial revolution in our country. New homes could have these technologies built-in, while existing homes would receive retros.
This cannot be more difficult than when we moved plumbing indoors, or sending a man to the moon, or splitting the atom. We can do this.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Good Wood
Been out stacking wood all day. Winter's coming.
Caught some TeeVee while eating lunch and it seems like the Palin pick is designed to pick a fight over experience. At every opportunity, when the topic turns to Palin's inexperience, the repub talking head invariably informs all the viewers that she has more experience than Obama.
I have been befuddled by McCain's choice for many reasons. Not the least of which is how much energy the republicans are going to expend on defending the choice. It seems, at least at first impression, that they are willing to do this because they can highlight what they see as Obama's inexperience.
It's a long shot, but what really does McCain have left? He's been consistently behind in the national polls, behind or too close to call in almost every swing state, and he's thrown everything he has at Obama. Desperate times call for desperate measures, I suppose.
I keep reading that Palin shouldn't be criticized for accepting the VP offer when she has 5 children. I whole-heartedly agree, the problem is, I haven't read any criticism of her for just that reason. I have a feeling that these arguments are being built as an inoculation against any criticism of Palin - another disingenuous attempt to affront women. Good luck with that.
See you back in the Senate, Mr. McCain.
Caught some TeeVee while eating lunch and it seems like the Palin pick is designed to pick a fight over experience. At every opportunity, when the topic turns to Palin's inexperience, the repub talking head invariably informs all the viewers that she has more experience than Obama.
I have been befuddled by McCain's choice for many reasons. Not the least of which is how much energy the republicans are going to expend on defending the choice. It seems, at least at first impression, that they are willing to do this because they can highlight what they see as Obama's inexperience.
It's a long shot, but what really does McCain have left? He's been consistently behind in the national polls, behind or too close to call in almost every swing state, and he's thrown everything he has at Obama. Desperate times call for desperate measures, I suppose.
I keep reading that Palin shouldn't be criticized for accepting the VP offer when she has 5 children. I whole-heartedly agree, the problem is, I haven't read any criticism of her for just that reason. I have a feeling that these arguments are being built as an inoculation against any criticism of Palin - another disingenuous attempt to affront women. Good luck with that.
See you back in the Senate, Mr. McCain.
Palinode
PALINode - appropriately, a formal statement of retraction.
Jumpin' Jeebus, this didn't take long.
LA Times Headline:
McCain's choice of Palin is a risk
It is simply surreal that McCain, in one fell swoop, could turn what was a fairly significant political advantage, judgement and experience, into a political liability. His pick of Palin reeks of political tactic, not of putting the country first. McCain has succeeded in revving up the base a little, but this will ebb shortly. He has just created a huge problem with independents...the voices of the conservative right are not being kind about Palin. The chorus will only grow louder, as McCain simply does not have the deep ties within the Republican party to quell what is sure to be out and out groaning over the next weeks.
McCain and the republicans have sunk tens of millions of dollars into a campaign designed to make Obama look risky and unprepared. Now it is McCain who looks unprepared - he met Palin only twice for a few moments each time before her selection? Now it is McCain who looks risky - a governor for less than two years of a state with 600,000 people a heartbeat away from leader of the free world? Now it is McCain who puts politics above country - Obama chose wisely. Biden as VP signals a seriousness about governing and signals that we will have a healthy national debate about foreign policy. Palin may help McCain excite the base, but if elected on election day, her carriage turns back into a pumpkin.
Stunned is still my reaction, and I remain convinced that this will implode on McCain in the not too distant future.
Jumpin' Jeebus, this didn't take long.
LA Times Headline:
McCain's choice of Palin is a risk
It is simply surreal that McCain, in one fell swoop, could turn what was a fairly significant political advantage, judgement and experience, into a political liability. His pick of Palin reeks of political tactic, not of putting the country first. McCain has succeeded in revving up the base a little, but this will ebb shortly. He has just created a huge problem with independents...the voices of the conservative right are not being kind about Palin. The chorus will only grow louder, as McCain simply does not have the deep ties within the Republican party to quell what is sure to be out and out groaning over the next weeks.
McCain and the republicans have sunk tens of millions of dollars into a campaign designed to make Obama look risky and unprepared. Now it is McCain who looks unprepared - he met Palin only twice for a few moments each time before her selection? Now it is McCain who looks risky - a governor for less than two years of a state with 600,000 people a heartbeat away from leader of the free world? Now it is McCain who puts politics above country - Obama chose wisely. Biden as VP signals a seriousness about governing and signals that we will have a healthy national debate about foreign policy. Palin may help McCain excite the base, but if elected on election day, her carriage turns back into a pumpkin.
Stunned is still my reaction, and I remain convinced that this will implode on McCain in the not too distant future.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Penny-wise
The McCain camp did an excellent job today of disrupting the accolades that Obama was receiving for his speech last night. Tactically, it was a brilliant move.
Keep an eye out for the changing story line in the MSM as the Palin pick goes from surprise to doubt. This won't take long.
I've seen some skimpy comparisons to Tim Kaine's resume, arguing that it is sexist to say Palin is not qualified for VP. It's not sexist. Although Kaine's resume is a little thin, it is much more substantive than Palin's. By a lot. Maybe it's more sexist to put a woman on the ticket because of her gender rather than her qualifications. After all, nobody can argue that there aren't Republican women who are infinitely more qualified.
The storms in the Gulf are posing a very big PR problem for the repubs. The convention had to be designed to inform about Palin...this is a big bucket of mush for them right now.
The excitement of this pick will wane for all but the most ardent religious right voters. The MSM will rightly start to question the wisdom and judgement of this pick. They will get plenty of help from conservative republicans who do take this pick seriously, not to mention those of whom were pretty well strung along during the VP stakes.
This is going to get ugly.
Keep an eye out for the changing story line in the MSM as the Palin pick goes from surprise to doubt. This won't take long.
I've seen some skimpy comparisons to Tim Kaine's resume, arguing that it is sexist to say Palin is not qualified for VP. It's not sexist. Although Kaine's resume is a little thin, it is much more substantive than Palin's. By a lot. Maybe it's more sexist to put a woman on the ticket because of her gender rather than her qualifications. After all, nobody can argue that there aren't Republican women who are infinitely more qualified.
The storms in the Gulf are posing a very big PR problem for the repubs. The convention had to be designed to inform about Palin...this is a big bucket of mush for them right now.
The excitement of this pick will wane for all but the most ardent religious right voters. The MSM will rightly start to question the wisdom and judgement of this pick. They will get plenty of help from conservative republicans who do take this pick seriously, not to mention those of whom were pretty well strung along during the VP stakes.
This is going to get ugly.
The Palin Pick
There's a lot of head scratching going on regarding McCain's VP pick. Governor Sarah Palin of Alaska is McCain's choice.
This makes perfect sense to me on many levels.
1. McCain has picked someone who will not overshadow him. She has no political experience whatsoever, and allows McCain to remain the masthead of the ticket. As the AP put it:
She has more experience catching fish as a former commercial fisherwoman than dealing with foreign policy or national affairs.
2. McCain is a gambler. His penchant for high-rolling is well-known. This may be the biggest political gamble in history. Incidentally, how is it that McCain's love of gambling isn't an automatic dis-qualifier for the highest office in the land?
3. McCain's going after Hillary Dems. Make no mistake, this pick is purely political. McCain must think these voters are up for grabs...are they? I'm not sure. The Dems sure did focus on women's issues at the convention and Biden's stellar record on women's issues was front and center, leading one to believe that the Dems are concerned. Does Palin do it for these voters? I'm not sure, but I think not. Primary voters are more informed about the issues and Palin's positions will not be well-received. Moreover, what does Palin bring to the governing table? Not much, and surely not as much as other, much more qualified candidates. What advise to you see Governor Palin giving McCain on any issue, foreign or domestic? It doesn't play - this has a huge chance to implode.
4. McCain is trying to give independent voters who might vote for Obama because of the historic nature of his candidacy a reason to vote for McCain. The first woman vice-president of our country. This is dicey (intended gambling pun) because if the pick is seen as purely political, it may have the opposite effect. Independents could be repulsed by the latent opportunism seen in this pick.
There are many more layers to this. It's exciting today, but what happens when the initial surprise wears and we begin to learn more about Palin? It also seems pretty late in the game to introduce a new player to a skittish electorate. There simply isn't time to introduce her on a national level. Further, any Palin gaffe, large or small will be greatly magnified because there is so little known about her. There is absolutely no recovery time for any errors. Don't expect anything but message from her - no unscripted moments.
Game on.
UPDATE: You just cannot overstate how unserious this selection is. I understand that both McCain and Obama have holes to fill, but how does Palin do this for McCain? I feel pretty confident that the adults in the Repub party are not happy with this big middle finger pick from McCain.
This makes perfect sense to me on many levels.
1. McCain has picked someone who will not overshadow him. She has no political experience whatsoever, and allows McCain to remain the masthead of the ticket. As the AP put it:
She has more experience catching fish as a former commercial fisherwoman than dealing with foreign policy or national affairs.
2. McCain is a gambler. His penchant for high-rolling is well-known. This may be the biggest political gamble in history. Incidentally, how is it that McCain's love of gambling isn't an automatic dis-qualifier for the highest office in the land?
3. McCain's going after Hillary Dems. Make no mistake, this pick is purely political. McCain must think these voters are up for grabs...are they? I'm not sure. The Dems sure did focus on women's issues at the convention and Biden's stellar record on women's issues was front and center, leading one to believe that the Dems are concerned. Does Palin do it for these voters? I'm not sure, but I think not. Primary voters are more informed about the issues and Palin's positions will not be well-received. Moreover, what does Palin bring to the governing table? Not much, and surely not as much as other, much more qualified candidates. What advise to you see Governor Palin giving McCain on any issue, foreign or domestic? It doesn't play - this has a huge chance to implode.
4. McCain is trying to give independent voters who might vote for Obama because of the historic nature of his candidacy a reason to vote for McCain. The first woman vice-president of our country. This is dicey (intended gambling pun) because if the pick is seen as purely political, it may have the opposite effect. Independents could be repulsed by the latent opportunism seen in this pick.
There are many more layers to this. It's exciting today, but what happens when the initial surprise wears and we begin to learn more about Palin? It also seems pretty late in the game to introduce a new player to a skittish electorate. There simply isn't time to introduce her on a national level. Further, any Palin gaffe, large or small will be greatly magnified because there is so little known about her. There is absolutely no recovery time for any errors. Don't expect anything but message from her - no unscripted moments.
Game on.
UPDATE: You just cannot overstate how unserious this selection is. I understand that both McCain and Obama have holes to fill, but how does Palin do this for McCain? I feel pretty confident that the adults in the Repub party are not happy with this big middle finger pick from McCain.
Gustav is not a Republican
Gustav is bearing down on the Gulf of Mexico. I wonder if James Dobson and his religious fundies are regretting this:
Conservative James Dobson's Colorado Springs-based Focus on the Family posted what it called a humorous Internet video calling for people to pray for rain during Obama's speech.
Looks like Gus will make landfall sometime at the start of the week, not so coincidently when the Repubs are gathering in the Twin Cities. When you create a vicious cycle, as the republicans have so skillfully done, it's hard to escape the shadow of your karma.
Sometimes the universe crams a lesson down your throat.
Conservative James Dobson's Colorado Springs-based Focus on the Family posted what it called a humorous Internet video calling for people to pray for rain during Obama's speech.
Looks like Gus will make landfall sometime at the start of the week, not so coincidently when the Repubs are gathering in the Twin Cities. When you create a vicious cycle, as the republicans have so skillfully done, it's hard to escape the shadow of your karma.
Sometimes the universe crams a lesson down your throat.
Great Speech
My first reaction to Obama's speech last night was over the top. I waited until this a.m. to post some thoughts so that I could fully process.
I thought his speech hit the target on three major areas.
1. Obama re-assured Democratic voters that he's a Democrat. He outlined specific proposals that he will champion as president. I must say he was somewhat light in discussing how he would pay for these proposals and see a Republican line of attack focusing on tax and spend. What else is new?
2. Obama tied McCain not only to GWB, but to failed Republican policies. His line about making the Republicans "own their failures." was simply brilliant. I have been frustrated because many of the Dem speakers have only said that McCain is more of the same, without showing how. Obama hit that hard last night saying McCain voted with Bush 90% of the time and Obama wasn't willing to take a 10% chance on change.
3. Obama showed he was a fighter. He took Biden's mom's advice and bloodied McCain's nose. Obama made McCain look small, very small by taking on McCain's negative advertising. Saying there was too much at stake in this election for the same old partisan playbook, Obama directly challenged McCain to grow up and be serious. We all put our country first.
Overall, Obama did all this and more with flourish and a seriousness that demonstrated his capacity to be commander-in-chief. He blunted what is sure to be several lines of attack next week.
It's hard to imagine the Repubs following this spectacle. For substance, for imagery, for the all-star lineup of political talent.
I thought his speech hit the target on three major areas.
1. Obama re-assured Democratic voters that he's a Democrat. He outlined specific proposals that he will champion as president. I must say he was somewhat light in discussing how he would pay for these proposals and see a Republican line of attack focusing on tax and spend. What else is new?
2. Obama tied McCain not only to GWB, but to failed Republican policies. His line about making the Republicans "own their failures." was simply brilliant. I have been frustrated because many of the Dem speakers have only said that McCain is more of the same, without showing how. Obama hit that hard last night saying McCain voted with Bush 90% of the time and Obama wasn't willing to take a 10% chance on change.
3. Obama showed he was a fighter. He took Biden's mom's advice and bloodied McCain's nose. Obama made McCain look small, very small by taking on McCain's negative advertising. Saying there was too much at stake in this election for the same old partisan playbook, Obama directly challenged McCain to grow up and be serious. We all put our country first.
Overall, Obama did all this and more with flourish and a seriousness that demonstrated his capacity to be commander-in-chief. He blunted what is sure to be several lines of attack next week.
It's hard to imagine the Repubs following this spectacle. For substance, for imagery, for the all-star lineup of political talent.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Freakin Barney Smith
Man, I can't believe Obama dug up a real life Barney Smith. Mr. Smith, from Indiana, told his hard-luck economic story and came up with the line of the night. "It's time we had a president who cared more about Barney Smith than Smith, Barney."
These guys do know what they're doing. I continue to be impressed.
These guys do know what they're doing. I continue to be impressed.
Generals for Obama
The Dems just trotted out retired generals and admirals who support Obama. Got me to thinking that we hadn't heard from Colin Powell in some time. At least not since Bill Kristol announced that Powell's endorsement of Obama was imminent.
The Obama campaign has been excellent at orchestrating endorsements and supporters. Throughout the primary season they used fantastic tactics to blunt any Clinton momentum. I suspect we will see more of this in the general election, including endorsements by high-profiles like Powell.
In many ways, the endorsements are a microcosm of Obama strategy. They do seem to be holding back their punches while McCain throws everything but the kitchen sink at them. I believe that the gloves come off after the convention, boxing McCain into corner after corner. Through the last few weeks, the McCain camp has been better at staying on message. This will change when they are on the defensive.
The Obama campaign has been excellent at orchestrating endorsements and supporters. Throughout the primary season they used fantastic tactics to blunt any Clinton momentum. I suspect we will see more of this in the general election, including endorsements by high-profiles like Powell.
In many ways, the endorsements are a microcosm of Obama strategy. They do seem to be holding back their punches while McCain throws everything but the kitchen sink at them. I believe that the gloves come off after the convention, boxing McCain into corner after corner. Through the last few weeks, the McCain camp has been better at staying on message. This will change when they are on the defensive.
The real war President
John McCain's new campaign slogan:
More War, Fewer Jobs.
It's a can't miss selling proposition. I simply can't remember a more bellicose, belligerent, or dangerous candidate running for President. Really.
More War, Fewer Jobs.
It's a can't miss selling proposition. I simply can't remember a more bellicose, belligerent, or dangerous candidate running for President. Really.
Republican Blood Letting
There's some interesting back battles going on in the Republican primary for the NH District 1 congressional seat. Jeb Bradley, who formerly held the seat before getting upset by Carol Shea-Porter in '06, has been running some pretty nasty television ads. His opponent, John Stephens, is crying foul, and several prominent Republicans have spoken out for Stephens, calling on Bradley to remove the ads. Thus far the Bradley campaign has continued the negative campaigning.
I don't know enough about Stephens to have a strong opinion of the truthfullness of the ads. But this story has legs and gives me hope on two levels. First, the proximity of the primary to the general election does not offer much time to heal deep wounds, and from what I can gather, Bradley is hitting hard and low. The Republican laurel may prove to be too thorny a crown for Bradley should he win. On the other hand, Bradley voters may also be disaffected should Stephens win. New Hampshire voters aren't crazy about negative advertising - we want policy details. A good part of the state still uses the town meeting form of government and people are knowledgeable about issues. Bradley, I think, has opened Pandora's box and isn't quite sure how to close it.
On another level, it seems to me that the presidential campaign of John McCain is based primarily on tearing down Obama. Unless I'm totally misreading the situation, I can't see McCain's tactics working in NH. He seems to be hoping for his maverick image to propel him through here.
Kerry won NH in '04 against a sitting war-time president. I simply can't see NH reversing course and rewarding the Republicans with four more years.
I don't know enough about Stephens to have a strong opinion of the truthfullness of the ads. But this story has legs and gives me hope on two levels. First, the proximity of the primary to the general election does not offer much time to heal deep wounds, and from what I can gather, Bradley is hitting hard and low. The Republican laurel may prove to be too thorny a crown for Bradley should he win. On the other hand, Bradley voters may also be disaffected should Stephens win. New Hampshire voters aren't crazy about negative advertising - we want policy details. A good part of the state still uses the town meeting form of government and people are knowledgeable about issues. Bradley, I think, has opened Pandora's box and isn't quite sure how to close it.
On another level, it seems to me that the presidential campaign of John McCain is based primarily on tearing down Obama. Unless I'm totally misreading the situation, I can't see McCain's tactics working in NH. He seems to be hoping for his maverick image to propel him through here.
Kerry won NH in '04 against a sitting war-time president. I simply can't see NH reversing course and rewarding the Republicans with four more years.
The Big Night.
Tonight's the big speech from Obama. I think he's up to it.
The republicans are already amping up the rhetoric about the stage craft for the speech - something about the columns in the background. It's pretty difficult to believe that petty statements like that help their candidate. Even fervent supporters of McCain have to recognize the historic proportions of Obama's nomination...at least, I think they must.
The Obama campaign picked a fighter in Biden, and I think they are going to take it to the republicans over the next 8 weeks. Nothing personal. Simply bash them over the heads with their own incompetence. It should be fun to watch.
The republicans are already amping up the rhetoric about the stage craft for the speech - something about the columns in the background. It's pretty difficult to believe that petty statements like that help their candidate. Even fervent supporters of McCain have to recognize the historic proportions of Obama's nomination...at least, I think they must.
The Obama campaign picked a fighter in Biden, and I think they are going to take it to the republicans over the next 8 weeks. Nothing personal. Simply bash them over the heads with their own incompetence. It should be fun to watch.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Obama's VP?
I think that Hilary is back in the picture. Long shot, sure, but Obama has been more than coy in recent weeks. His appearances and visits with Tim Kaine and Evan Baye have been designed to create buzz about the VP pick and it's been very successful. The chattering class has been giving their very important opinions about each and how they might help Obama.
This is called controlling the message. Obama's team has been incredibly gifted at controlling the cable news cycle, drowning out any message that McCain wants to get out. It is impossible to overstate how effective this tactic has been. Leaking out cancelled events and meeting times, campaign events juggled to suggest breaking news, and all this without overt manipulation. Obama is demonstrating that soft power can be extremely effective.
Which got me thinking. Conventional wisdom is that an Obama/Clinton ticket can't work, that neither trusts the other completely. What if the CW is wrong? Can you imagine if the VP pick is kept under wraps until the convention? Now imagine that the pick will be announced at the convention - in prime time. Ratings would be unbelievable. And if Obama and Clinton walk out on stage together to make this announcement, it would be an incredible political moment.
Now, there are many downsides to this ticket, no doubt. Count me as one who distrusts the Clintons immensely, but if Obama and Clinton can mend their fences and come together, it could be an unbeatable ticket.
This is called controlling the message. Obama's team has been incredibly gifted at controlling the cable news cycle, drowning out any message that McCain wants to get out. It is impossible to overstate how effective this tactic has been. Leaking out cancelled events and meeting times, campaign events juggled to suggest breaking news, and all this without overt manipulation. Obama is demonstrating that soft power can be extremely effective.
Which got me thinking. Conventional wisdom is that an Obama/Clinton ticket can't work, that neither trusts the other completely. What if the CW is wrong? Can you imagine if the VP pick is kept under wraps until the convention? Now imagine that the pick will be announced at the convention - in prime time. Ratings would be unbelievable. And if Obama and Clinton walk out on stage together to make this announcement, it would be an incredible political moment.
Now, there are many downsides to this ticket, no doubt. Count me as one who distrusts the Clintons immensely, but if Obama and Clinton can mend their fences and come together, it could be an unbeatable ticket.
Obama's rope-a-dope
As more than a casual observer of modern-day politics, I have been appreciating Obama'a political gifts. Win or lose this race, and I think it is his to win, he has demonstrated that he is a brilliant politician. It is the type of brilliance, though, that does not blind you. Obama is easy to underestimate...he is understated, he is positive, he is wry.
Obama watched the republicans disassemble the Kerry/Edwards ticket in '04. McCain has most of the '04 republican crew on his staff, so the strategy is fairly easy to predict. This group is attacking Obama on his strength (popularity, ability to draw large crowds, excellent speaking ability) and are hoping that they can get under Obama's skin and make him seem angry. Thus far, Obama has been cool (sometimes too much so) and more recently has turned to a little mockery to strike back. This seems to be a better counter for Obama - as he appears to be having some fun with McCain, which should irritate McCain all the more.
Kerry picked Edwards sometime in June in '04 giving the repubs much time to focus on the ticket. This year, Obama has kept the repubs (and the media) guessing - as each day goes by, the republicans lose another day to gather information and formulate attacks on the ticket. And while this is all happening, the focus remains Obama vs McCain, young vs age, new vs old, change vs same. I think Obama wins in these mini-battles.
Similar to his battle with Clinton, Obama is absorbing all the attacks by McCain. He is dodging and weaving, allowing McCain to lob all he has at him. As long as McCain fails to connect, and he hasn't, Obama is content to keep his campaign on the high road and control the message. McCain must be completely irritated at not being able to get his message out. Obama speaks, and everyone listens; McCain speaks and everyone yawns.
Obama is using the Olympics to cast a very positive image of himself. His latest ad doesn't even mention McCain. As Obama introduces himself to more of the public, what they are seeing simply doesn't jive with McCain's attacks.
I see more of this going through Labor Day, with the possibility of McCain going more negative. Clinton made many of the same mistakes that McCain is making. Too negative, too much focus on her opponent, not enough focus on local issues and the GOTV efforts.
Having watched the republicans destroy many good democrats over the years, I must admit that there are times when I want BO to strike back harder. But I look at what he has accomplished - and chiefly among those accomplishments is beating the premier brand in Democratic politics in the past 40 years, and becoming the first African-American nominee for President of the US. He has surrounded himself with big thinkers and intelligent people. Sure, they're going to make gaffes, but so far they have limited the damage.
I think they deserve the right to run the campaign as they deem without second guessing - at least not from my section in the bleachers.
Obama watched the republicans disassemble the Kerry/Edwards ticket in '04. McCain has most of the '04 republican crew on his staff, so the strategy is fairly easy to predict. This group is attacking Obama on his strength (popularity, ability to draw large crowds, excellent speaking ability) and are hoping that they can get under Obama's skin and make him seem angry. Thus far, Obama has been cool (sometimes too much so) and more recently has turned to a little mockery to strike back. This seems to be a better counter for Obama - as he appears to be having some fun with McCain, which should irritate McCain all the more.
Kerry picked Edwards sometime in June in '04 giving the repubs much time to focus on the ticket. This year, Obama has kept the repubs (and the media) guessing - as each day goes by, the republicans lose another day to gather information and formulate attacks on the ticket. And while this is all happening, the focus remains Obama vs McCain, young vs age, new vs old, change vs same. I think Obama wins in these mini-battles.
Similar to his battle with Clinton, Obama is absorbing all the attacks by McCain. He is dodging and weaving, allowing McCain to lob all he has at him. As long as McCain fails to connect, and he hasn't, Obama is content to keep his campaign on the high road and control the message. McCain must be completely irritated at not being able to get his message out. Obama speaks, and everyone listens; McCain speaks and everyone yawns.
Obama is using the Olympics to cast a very positive image of himself. His latest ad doesn't even mention McCain. As Obama introduces himself to more of the public, what they are seeing simply doesn't jive with McCain's attacks.
I see more of this going through Labor Day, with the possibility of McCain going more negative. Clinton made many of the same mistakes that McCain is making. Too negative, too much focus on her opponent, not enough focus on local issues and the GOTV efforts.
Having watched the republicans destroy many good democrats over the years, I must admit that there are times when I want BO to strike back harder. But I look at what he has accomplished - and chiefly among those accomplishments is beating the premier brand in Democratic politics in the past 40 years, and becoming the first African-American nominee for President of the US. He has surrounded himself with big thinkers and intelligent people. Sure, they're going to make gaffes, but so far they have limited the damage.
I think they deserve the right to run the campaign as they deem without second guessing - at least not from my section in the bleachers.
Friday, August 8, 2008
The future of energy
There are so many reasons why 2008 is a watershed election year in the US. Our foriegn policy is in a shambles, our economy is reeling from a banking crisis that has yet to hit bottom, and there are stark choices to be made regarding our dependence on oil. It is this oil dependence that has me most concerned.
The republicans are essentially using the high cost of oil as a political wedge with no clear solution. Of course, they are touting more drilling, here, there, and everywhere, but this is not a viable answer. Sure, there's a limited amount of oil reserves off our shores, but if we start drilling today, we're not likely to see any oil for a decade or so. On top of this, the reserves barely amount to a 7 month world supply - certainly not enough to affect global prices.
We are rapidly approaching the tipping point of oil as energy. It is becoming increasingly expensive, to the point where it may be too costly to maintain the "American" way of life. We need to make significant changes in our wasteful lifestyles - from driving way too much (I'm constantly amazed at the number of cars on our highways with just one occupant), to excessive use of air conditioning, to wasteful dietary habits - and we need to develop alternative energy sources. We may be nearing the point where we can no longer afford oil, nor will we be able to afford to develop these alternative energy sources.
What's needed are sound policies; better infrastructure for public transportation, tax incentives to manufacture and purchase fuel efficient cars, higher taxes on petroleum based products - particularly for non-essential items, and initiatives to educate consumers on how to be more energy savvy.
The republicans spent the better part of the last two weeks mocking Obama on tire pressure, but it is precisely these types of efforts that will help wean us off oil.
The republicans are essentially using the high cost of oil as a political wedge with no clear solution. Of course, they are touting more drilling, here, there, and everywhere, but this is not a viable answer. Sure, there's a limited amount of oil reserves off our shores, but if we start drilling today, we're not likely to see any oil for a decade or so. On top of this, the reserves barely amount to a 7 month world supply - certainly not enough to affect global prices.
We are rapidly approaching the tipping point of oil as energy. It is becoming increasingly expensive, to the point where it may be too costly to maintain the "American" way of life. We need to make significant changes in our wasteful lifestyles - from driving way too much (I'm constantly amazed at the number of cars on our highways with just one occupant), to excessive use of air conditioning, to wasteful dietary habits - and we need to develop alternative energy sources. We may be nearing the point where we can no longer afford oil, nor will we be able to afford to develop these alternative energy sources.
What's needed are sound policies; better infrastructure for public transportation, tax incentives to manufacture and purchase fuel efficient cars, higher taxes on petroleum based products - particularly for non-essential items, and initiatives to educate consumers on how to be more energy savvy.
The republicans spent the better part of the last two weeks mocking Obama on tire pressure, but it is precisely these types of efforts that will help wean us off oil.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Aberrant Behavior
I'm no longer surprised when the cable outlets focus like a laser beam on missing white children. Particularly when the parent/spouse/sibling is under suspicion. There's a baby missing in Florida, and the mother is the chief/only suspect at this point, and the cable shows are devoting HOURS to this.
In a way, we have become such a voyeuristic society, and prefer to recieve our scandalous entertainment through the aberrant lives of others. This also makes sense with what the offerings are on television. The TeeVee is loaded with reality-based shows and other popular shows have included dramas where people fight for their survival without any technological advantages. Pure shit, in other words.
Back to the baby in Florida. Now, I'm not saying this doesn't merit some news coverage. It almost certainly does, particularly local coverage. News coverage can create awareness and generate information that might help solve the case.
But that's not what's happening. We're getting full-blown, minute by minute analysis of the case, complete with psychoanalysis of the mom, grandparents, siblings and neighbors. Jeepers, they're even broadcasting telephone conversations between the family members.
Some of this is creepy. Some of it is sad. Some of it is ugly. All in all, it says more about the viewers and the state of broadcast media than it does of this poor family.
In a way, we have become such a voyeuristic society, and prefer to recieve our scandalous entertainment through the aberrant lives of others. This also makes sense with what the offerings are on television. The TeeVee is loaded with reality-based shows and other popular shows have included dramas where people fight for their survival without any technological advantages. Pure shit, in other words.
Back to the baby in Florida. Now, I'm not saying this doesn't merit some news coverage. It almost certainly does, particularly local coverage. News coverage can create awareness and generate information that might help solve the case.
But that's not what's happening. We're getting full-blown, minute by minute analysis of the case, complete with psychoanalysis of the mom, grandparents, siblings and neighbors. Jeepers, they're even broadcasting telephone conversations between the family members.
Some of this is creepy. Some of it is sad. Some of it is ugly. All in all, it says more about the viewers and the state of broadcast media than it does of this poor family.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Energy Policy
It seems to me that the Republican energy plan can be summed up in three parts:
1. Increase the noise level about more drilling.
2. Block any Democratic initiative to craft sensible energy legislation.
3. Blame the Democrats for rising fuel costs.
Pretty specious, but not surprising.
It just doesn't seem to matter to these petty people that there are millions of Americans who are struggling. More drilling is a political argument, not a viable solution - more drilling will have no economic impact for at least 20 years.
On top of this, if you can stand the debauchery, is the Republican mockery of Obama for suggesting we inflate our car tires to the proper pressure. McCain and his minions are hawking $25 tire pressure gauges while laughing at the notion of saving a few hundred dollars. I suppose McCain's financial worries were over when he married a multi-millionaire heiress, so he can laugh all he wants.
The truth is that there is no panacea for reducing rising oil costs. It's going to take a few hundred initiatives similar to proper tire inflation to take the first few steps. We need to buy some valuable time to develop alternative energy because we've wasted 8 years with an incompetent administration.
Interestingly, Republicans are in an unfamiliar position on energy. Basically, what they're telling us is that there's nothing we can do as individuals to help reduce our demand. We must depend on the "adults" in their party to make these energy decisions.
Oy!
1. Increase the noise level about more drilling.
2. Block any Democratic initiative to craft sensible energy legislation.
3. Blame the Democrats for rising fuel costs.
Pretty specious, but not surprising.
It just doesn't seem to matter to these petty people that there are millions of Americans who are struggling. More drilling is a political argument, not a viable solution - more drilling will have no economic impact for at least 20 years.
On top of this, if you can stand the debauchery, is the Republican mockery of Obama for suggesting we inflate our car tires to the proper pressure. McCain and his minions are hawking $25 tire pressure gauges while laughing at the notion of saving a few hundred dollars. I suppose McCain's financial worries were over when he married a multi-millionaire heiress, so he can laugh all he wants.
The truth is that there is no panacea for reducing rising oil costs. It's going to take a few hundred initiatives similar to proper tire inflation to take the first few steps. We need to buy some valuable time to develop alternative energy because we've wasted 8 years with an incompetent administration.
Interestingly, Republicans are in an unfamiliar position on energy. Basically, what they're telling us is that there's nothing we can do as individuals to help reduce our demand. We must depend on the "adults" in their party to make these energy decisions.
Oy!
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