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Hillary Woos Women-- Will she capture this vote!! 2007-03-09 21:28:00 With a goal to use social networking tools, including the web, Hillary
plans to go all out to attract women, whose votes she needs to boost her chances to become America's next president.To accomplish this, she seeks the help of prominent women such as: former Secretary of State, Madeline Albright, tennis champion, Billy Jean King and Geraldine Ferraro, the vice-presidential nominee in 1984. But will Hillary be able to claim this sector of the electorate? Are women ready to support (their likeness) a female? Equally are men ready to give a woman a chance? Political strategists/pollsters estimate that 60 percent of voters in the 2008 Democratic primary will be women who could play a pivotal role in deciding who gets to the White House. Hillary's intentions are to get twice the number of her rival. An attractive segment to woo, and in particular, single women who normally do not participate in elections, and claim their issues are not often addressed. What is clear-- the women's v Read more:Women
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McCain Anounces Candidacy-- Still a maverick? 2007-03-02 12:39:00 Four-term Senator, John McCain
(R-Ariz), considered a staunch supporter for the Iraqi war, announced his candidacy on Letterman. But what was expected to be a defining moment saw McCain apologizing after he remarked "U.S. lives have been wasted in the four-year old conflict." He quickly retracted that statement, however, after the DNC demanded an apology. The senator, said he meant to say "sacrificed". Adding, "their sacrifices are never wasted". The questions being asked: How can McCain who now believes lives are being wasted support a troop surge? In February, Obama also described the lives of troops in Iraq as having been wasted, but later said he regretted that comment. As he staggers to recover ground, McCain quickly reasserted that the troops must remain in Iraq rather than withdrawing early. Seen to be switching roles? Is McCain out of step with his GOP base? Does his campaign seem to be collapsing, starting out with a whimper, instead of a bang? Is the senator, less Read more:Candidacy
Rough House Politics-- Clinton/Obama Drama 2007-02-24 17:36:00 This week there was much drama from the Clinton
-Obama
camps. Depending on how one chooses to interpret it, I nevertheless see it as Democrats At War. This rough house politics should bring much laughter to the republicans. There were more bombs dropping in that political space than in Afghanistan. What started this war of words? The Clinton camp demanded that Obama return DreamWorks studio co-founder, David Geffen's money ($1.3 million in donations) after he criticized the Clintons as dishonest, among other things.Obama refused saying Geffen speaks for himself. Obama's spokesperson later condemned Hillary for accepting the support of a South Carolina lawmaker who said Obama cannot win the race because he is black. This food fight in the school yard shows emerging fractures in Democratic ranks and looked at seriously, has the potential to throw the 2008 presidential elections away. How? If the media can manufacture enough front page news on this tit-for-tat, the substance of the d Read more:Rough
, House
In the Buzz-- Bill Clinton for what? 2007-02-20 01:58:00 Is there a chance that in another few years we will all be saying "Senator Bill Clinton
"? In Democratic circles the buzz is on; if Hillary wins the presidency, former president and husband Bill, could be appointed to complete her un-expired senate term. Is this a Clinton dynasty in the making? Where is Chelsea in all of this? Did I hear the saying " you buy one you get one free? " The conversation is hot! Some have gone even further to visualize "Majority Leader Clinton".While all of this is speculation, whoever said it is a long shot. But are there any homeboys/girls from New York who dream of becoming the next senator? Well, supporters think Bill would be a knockout Senator given his knowledge of the issues and political savvy.I do however, see the former president as a Chancellor of wonderful university with his team of professors on a campus working to shape the minds of the next generation. Others are thinking this is clearly the making of dynasty? With all the "hot spots" Read more:Bill Clinton
House Denounces Troop Surge-- All Sizzle? 2007-02-17 16:18:00 The House
has rejected the President's call for a troop surge of 20,00 for Iraq by a vote of 246 to 182. By denouncing his appeal, many Democrats see this action as a way to shake some sense into the Commander -in-Chief, as they plan a strategy to end the war. A vote follows in the Senate, but many question: Is this all sizzle and no steak--given without limiting funding for the war effort, nothing is likely change. As chief executive, the president is resolute on his decision to crush Iraqi insurgent/terrorists. How will this pan out? Waiting to see.Cutting funds for the war is a two edged sword for the Dems given how this move is interpreted by hawks who think this war cannot be won diplomatically, the GOP thinks using the power of the purse, shows no support for the troops, some make a comparison to old Rome-Nero fiddles while Rome burns-- a whole lot of talk --at least 400 members of the House spoke on the floor. But the Democrats have a mandate expressed in the 2006 elections--fi Read more:Denounces
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Onslaught on Obama? 2007-02-13 18:54:00 Less than a week after he officially announces to become president, Barak Obama
's mettle is being tested. His plan for early withdrawal of American troops from Iraq draws fire from an unexpected critic, Australian Prime Minister, John Howard who thinks a March 2008 redeployment deadline, would most definitely inspire insurgent violence.Obama fires back-- Australia has sent 1400 troops to Iraq, a very small percentage of the American force-- and if Howard wants to see a larger number going to the war zone he should send in the added 20,000 required for the surge, otherwise the prime minister's criticism is merely "empty rhetoric". Yes, there is no paved road to the White House, its already getting bumpy and the election is 20 months away. Does Obama's inexperience and youth prepare him for this fight?Then comes the other questions about his name Obama/OsamaNot Black enough-- where were you born?Not enough foreign policy experienceTwo years in the Senate. ........ and the Read more:Onslaught
Obama Announces-- "Crossing the Rubicon" 2007-02-11 09:19:00 With pomp, style and daring before a crowd estimated at about 15,000, Barack Obama
officially announced his candidacy as America's next president. Emphasizing "Washington must change" he gave insights into his platform that addressed: the middle class working from paycheck to paycheck; climate change considered as a hoax; the distraction from our real failures; dependence on big oil and the tragedy of the Iraqi war. Barak has crossed the Rubicon-- there will be no turning back. But does he have what it takes to be America's next president?Fully aware of his "star power" his speech was charismatic and idealistic. Strident, he takes on the republicans who he said currently think they own the country, but adding "we will have to take it back". While there is an amazing spectrum of ideas on his being "right" for the job, Obama made it clear that is message will resonate togetherness about Americans in general and not the differences between red or blue states or about liberals or cons Read more:Crossing
Pelosi's Plane Flap- -Tempest in a Teapot 2007-02-09 20:22:00 House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi
of California is getting a lot of flap after requesting use of C-32, a military version of the Boeing 757-200 aircraft, which could fly to California without refueling.Many believe her request is out of line. Others think it is okay, given her concerns about security and the Pentagon's agreement after 911 to provide the House Speaker who is second in line of presidential succession with a military plane for added security. That of course, would be based on availability. But that request has fired off a great deal of controversy. Plane
gate has begun. Anyone experiencing turbulence? Could this be a storm in a teapot?In her defense, the Speaker said her concerns are about travel and not transportation, and would be prepared to fly by commercial airline, but added, the House Sergeant-at-arms Office, urged her to continue Hastert's practice of using Air Force transport. Her request came after learning on her first trip that her plane would not make it across th Read more:Tempest
, Teapot
A Draft on for Condi Too! 2007-02-07 00:07:00 Another draft movement is in the works. A group of women also looks to encourage the Secretary of State, to throw her hat in the ring for the elections in '08. But does Condi have a chance to be the first black president? Or does Hillary for that matter? You tell me. It is reported that Secretary Rice has repeatedly implied she has no interest in this draft, but her fans want to see her name on a ticket, nevertheless. Can you visualize Hillary and Condi in a debate? The plot will thicken and gets more interesting. Want to be a part of that draft movement--see http://www.draftcondi.us/Nader--A Spoiler in the Camp?Former Consumer Advocate, Ralph Nader, slams Hillary and threatens to enter the presidential race. But democrats do not see a candidate who can win but a spoiler-- there to take votes from a Democratic nominee. Should he run as an Independent could that throw the election to the republicans? Nader does not think the stars in the present constellation have what it takes to mo Read more:Draft
Gore --Hope for the Dems? 2007-02-06 23:30:00 A "Draft Gore" movement is popping up across the country. But it seem Al Gore is interested in a different type of campaign-- one to solve global warming. And why not? the former vice president now enjoys the spotlight as a nominee for the Nobel Peace prize and an Oscar.But as bitter cold grips the mid-west and north-east, some are saying he should stick to politics because the temperatures reflect weather patterns seen in this country and around the world from time to time. Today there is no definitely n "warming " around here.It would seem, however, that some party loyalists are saying "we need Gore--he is the only hope for the Democrats." The problem ,Gore seem to have no interest in renewing his political career. Friends and Advisers apparently thinks he is happy with his new life style--wealthy celebrity, public figure. That is confirmed at http://www.algore.com/ which has no features of campaign site.I suggest Al follows his instincts unless he plans to take on the new player on
Iran to Expand Military Ties 2007-02-04 03:24:00 Is Iran thinking Empire? Just thinking neighborly. It seeks to expand its economic and military ties into Iraq. Is Iran begging for it?Will the big guns collide? Read more:Expand
, Military
Switch to a Parliamentary System-- 2007-02-04 03:23:00 As 2008 election season heats up, the discussion in certain camps have begun. Should we switch to a Parliamentary
style of government (lack of divided government) or stick to what we know-- the Electoral College? Winning the popular vote does not make you president. Winning the Electoral College does-- the smaller states are on equal footing with larger ones.Voters in large states such as California and New York think they are always shortchanged compared to a Vermont. What do you think?Rough and Tumble of a Campaign --Hillary As Dealt with Evil and Bad Men--- She has made her first trip to an early caucus state, Iowa. The report is things ran quite smoothly on the campaign trail. But does a ambush await to trigger a Stumble?Iran To Expand Military Ties --Is Iran thinking "Empire" or just being neighborly? It seeks to expand its economic and military ties into Iraq. Is this begging for it? Will the big guns collide?The Brightest Star in the Constellation?....GOP candidates throwing the Read more:System
Hiliary Runs-- Do not expect a Tea Party 2007-01-27 02:23:00 Irrespective of Hiliary Clinton's detractors, her statement " I am in to win" has already garnered the conversations she was hoping for. She is no dark horse in this race and probabilities are good despite high negatives that she could emerge America's next President. She will be tough, passionate and skillfull, do not expect a tea party.She wins however, irrespective of the final outcome. Because realistically, everyone is talking about her candidacy; those who love her and those who hate her. Why? Such a move from a former first lady is historical and generates a sea change in politics for women, globally. Her coat tails will extend well beyond 2008. She however looks to join the ranks of Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller of Jamaica, Angela Merkel, chancellor of Germany, Michelle Bachelet president of Chile, and Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf of Liberia. Who would think that the world's greatest democracy would still be looking to get its first female head of state. Of course that she w Read more:Party
, Tea Party
Hiliary-Obama Ticket-- Possible? 2007-01-04 09:12:00 Recently, there has been quite a buzz about the senator from Illinois , Barak Obama
, and Senator Clinton, that the two could represent a winning ticket for the Democrat party in 2008. But is that really a winning ticket, despite their current popularity? Of course Obama, more so than Hiliary is the "talk of the town". But is this combination based on a hype? I happen to think so. Not because individually they do not bring a lot to the table and to their party, but having two minorites on a ticket - a Black male and female, both untested variables, is risky if winning is the goal for the Democrats. Testing voter's response on the road to the White House is among the names confirmed, John Edwards, Dennis Kucinich --yet to announce, Hiliary and Obama, (Democrats) and John McCain, Rudolph Guiliani as Republicans. I like a horse race and is awaiting the emergence of a "Dark Horse". Most important, I want to see a rematch: Hiliary and John Edwards or .....John Edwards and Obama. Ir Read more:Ticket
, Possible
Senate Resolution On Troop Withdrawal-- Fails! 2007-03-16 18:19:00 Senate republicans, led by Mitch McConnell, defeated a Democratic bill to begin withdrawal of American troops by a margin of 50-48. Democratic senators: Mark Pryor (D-Ark), Ben Nelson (D-Neb.) and Joe Lieberman of Connecticut crossed the isle to vote with the republicans.Fully understanding they did not have the majority for a big win without Republican support, Democrats realize they can only take incremental steps to limit the president's power to conduct the war. As Joe Biden (D-Del.) puts it " This is a process." He and Senator Carl Levin were the driving force behind pushing for a vote on a new Iraq authorization resolution. The passage of the bill would have changed U.S. military campaign in Iraq, requiring American troops to shift into a support role for the Iraqi army without emphasis on carrying out counter-terrorism operations. In addition, see the beginning of the withdrawal of Americans by March 31, 2008, followed by combat units out of the country in 120 days later. Read more:Senate
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Alarm In Edwards Camp-- Wife's Cancer Returns! 2007-03-23 00:29:00 John and Elizabeth Edwards
, today at a news conference announced that his wife's cancer had returned. Her cancer diagnosed in 2004 and thought to be in remission, is now at stage 4-- in the bone and probably in the lungs, too. As this alarm went off in Edwards' camp, many imagined the words would be "campaign suspended". But Edwards has reassured his supporters that he will remain in the race. Mrs. Edwards' physician has emphasized that while the cancer is not curable, it is treatable. With no plans to drop out of the race, the Senator added "the campaign goes on strongly". Of course, there is a political side to this story. While is wife's cancer is treatable will it be impossible for him to campaign effectively? Was the decision to stay in the race- the right one?And are you more likely to support/not support him, given these challenges?Obama Consultant tied to "Hillary 1984"Does "Hillary 1984" make Obama a political executioner? His is camp going for the jugular--no h Read more:Cancer
, Returns
Fox Teams Up With Black Caucus-- On Debates 2007-03-30 21:11:00 After weeks of speculation, a somewhat unexpected link-up has occurred. The word is out--Fox News and the Congressional Black
Caucus (CBC) will team up to sponsor two debates for presidential candidates this year.Negotiations between the CBC and the network have been under much scrutiny since Democrats in Nevada backed out of a debate a few weeks ago that was sponsored by Fox. For many, the arguments against this collaboration has just begun. The squabble could continue even after the fact, on whether this was the right move by the CBC. Why? Liberals and Black activists, among others, have denounced this partnership given the network's conservative views and ideology. Could this bickering, shame the CBC to drop out of this partnership?The schedule by Fox includes a Sept. 23 event for Democratic candidates in Detroit. A time has not been announced for a debate among the Republicans. Questions: Should the desire to reach a large audience be a secondary consideration for the CBC in
Obama Fundraising Shocker--Jitters in Camp Clinton 2007-04-07 22:41:00 Senator Obama
's fundraising feat of $25 million has sent off shock waves and jitters in Camp Clinton
. And the anxiety builds! In Hillary's country this represents a coup and her supporters who see her as the super-duper candidate and heiress for the throne in 2008 are stunned that Obama could pull this off, and with such style. Consequently, one must ask--what happened here? Hillary brings a great deal to the table --former first lady, senator and well entrenched. Nevertheless, the bubble that has sustained her as the Democratic candidate with elbows has been punctured. If she must re-gain a solid footing, Hillary must re-group, re-evaluate the tactics of the competition and increase the conversations continuously attracting a new audience, given she will be forced to climb a very steep hill ahead. Barack clearly has a strategy to go all the way-- for Hillary this will be no cake walk. She said that she is in to win, and confidently so, is Barack.The $26 million Hillary raised, of co Read more:Fundraising
High Anxiety-- As GOP Looks To 2008 2007-04-13 23:02:00 Whether it is twiddling of the thumbs, a restless walk across the room or a less than spirited conversation signs of high anxiety are present in Republican circles as they mull over 2008 and finding a conservative leader for this party. In the last few weeks however, former Senator Fred Thompson(R-Tenn), has transformed the contest within his party and the presidential nomination,in general.For example,as McCain loses support,Thompson surges. Fred Thompson has become the talk among Republicans and filling a void in the conservative wing. A Los Angeles Times/Bloomberg poll,show that Senator John McCain is running behind Thompson 15 percent to 12 percent, and Mitt Romney at 8 percent. Former New York City Mayor Giuliani still leads however, but his numbers have dropped precipitously from 44 percent to 31 percent. This in part is said to be a result of the Thompson Factor and conservatives learning more about Giuliani,his ideology and personal life.What is clear is that Thompson's popula Read more:Looks
CAMPUS BLOODBATH-- Time for gun control? 2007-04-21 03:09:00 As we reflect on the bloodbath earlier this week at Virginia Tech, which has resulted in the death of thirty-two (32) persons--students and faculty,not including the gunman, Cho Seung-Hui,the questions continue; why? Was this massacre brought on by someone mentally ill, depressed, suicidal (which many claim he was)? Or was this about guns and their availability to anyone in Virginia who wants to buy one? And with the opportunity to do so every thirty days? Could this also be about our children exposed to an epidemic of violence through videos that involve simulated mass murder?I am searching for an answer. I hope you are too. Here it is, this young killer was twenty-three years old, and with a valid identification, a utility bill and the ability to pass a firearms eligibility test--16 questions, he was able to buy two guns, which he later used to shatter the lives of several families forever. This was pointless and senseless killing spree. The events at Columbine High School eight ye
Democrats Debate-- No Ruffled Feathers! 2007-04-28 15:46:00 Yes, the first debate among eight Democratic candidates went off without an itch, so as to speak; although Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-Ohio) and former Senator Mike Gravel (D-AK) made an effort to be confrontational.But in Act I, scene one, this drama played out with no feathers ruffled. There was little to feed the hungry spin doctors. Why? Literally, there were really no gaffes or slip of the tongue, no one really had to say later "hell, what was I thinking"! Unity and civility ruled the moment. In short, responses were generally overused talking points and bumper sticker slogans. They were on message and the format did not allow interaction among them which would possibly have added some infighting, the dog war reaction some anticipated. Nevertheless, Mike Gravel, a complete unknown,and at best a 'third tier' candidate, used this opportunity to throw a 'few stones' at the four senators who earlier that day voted for a bill that would set a timetable to bring the troops hom Read more:Democrats
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Political Debate II--GOP CANDIDATES FACE OFF!! 2007-05-04 23:48:00 As political debates go,I wish after the fact, I could clearly say of the ten GOP candidates that announced, there was a clear winner. But I cannot. However, what I know for sure is that tier (1) one candidates, which include: former Governor, Mitt Romney, Senator John McCain and former Mayor Giuliani still seem to be in the lead. This first GOP face off aired on MSNBC (The Dems a week ago)saw no technical knockouts, hard jabs, politically speaking that left us saying "Wow, this candidate will definitely save the Republicans and bring victory to their party for a third time in 2008." The candidates walked to their first coronation not with strides, but in a slow march hoping to capture the magic of the late President Reagan (whose likeness they emulate)the first conservative republican elected to the White House. In short--they were at the 'wishing well' doing a political dance and using Reagan's name as a tender to gain entrance/rights to his legacy. Consequently, his name was r Read more:Debate
ROYAL POLITICS UNDONE-- Lessons for Hillary? 2007-05-12 21:23:00 This week saw ROYAL POLITICS UNDONE!! Yes. French presidential candidate, SENGOLENE ROYAL lost to Nicolas Sarkozy (conservative) in the French elections. Royal the Socialist candidate, was defeated 53-47 percent. Any lessons for Hillary
? Not from my perspective, although at this stage I am clueless whether she will be her party's nominee. Of course,to those of us with an interest in comparative politics,there is a new new topic on the agenda. For others, the French interest and comparison ends. But that does not end the buzz on Royal's loss and Clinton's chances to win. Therefore, the outlandish speculation continues what is the message behind all this--the Royal defeat. Politics and playing to win in any democracy, is most unpredictable. Until the last vote is counted, it is a guessing game. However, Segolene's loss, the first woman to seek the French presidency, provides a script for someone. Women in particular? Not necessarily so. The uncoded message, however, is--the mom Read more:Lessons
GOP SECOND DEBATE-- Energy I was hoping for..! 2007-05-19 23:55:00 When I think debate and politics, I think contradictions, drama, excitement,dispute and questions. The second GOP debate, allowed us political junkies a little of all. For some the contentiousness between Senator McCain and Mitt Romney was expected/predicted? And for a while it got really hot. I anxiouly awaited the drama. And rightfully so. There were servings of passion and political energy. Supporters were pumped up for excitement. The second debate provided the energy political spectators hoped for.Debates that lack drama and contrast leaves nothing for us on the political landscape to remember, talk about,or reflect on after the fact. Political debates and steam rollers are synonymous. Did anyone get creamed/rolled over? Peppered with energy we saw some candidates walk, others bruised/scorched over the hot coals of politics. Does anyone remember Ron Pual? Of the ten candidtes,I am sure many do. But his response, while memorable represents and army of one. He attempted to start a Read more:Energy
HILLARY VOTES NO--A political dance with destiny? 2007-05-26 14:42:00 HILLARY VOTES NO-- to fund the troops in a Senate Bill that contained no timetables for withdrawal from Iraq; and given her ambition to become the next president, could this vote be a death knell, her dance with destiny? Because as the nation pays tribute to soldiers this Memorial weekend, a misinterpretation of her intentions behind this vote could sink her candidacy-- an without a trace. This vote could see her support siphoned off to a competitor in what can only be described as a treacherous political
mine field filled with booby traps. Why is this vote so critical to her political survival? It clearly does not represent the view of the mainstream of her party. To be noted, of the 16 Democratic senators who voted against going to war, eleven (11) voted to provide fundinf for the troops.The Senate bill passed overwhelmingly 80-14, but three of four Democrats vying for the presidency, voted with the minority. Senators Clinton, Dodd and Obama voted, NO, Biden, YES. On taking this
GOP IDENTITY CRISIS-- Freddy to the Rescue !! 2007-06-02 13:46:00 GOP IDENTITY CRISIS......If you have ever looked in the mirror not liking what you see and thought of an extreme makeover, then you can somehow imagine how conservatives feel, given the present line up of candidates vying for the presidency. Many claim some of the candidates, their platforms and value systems do not reflect their points -of-view on topical issues such as abortion, family values, big government, etc. Some are downright morose about their party's chances of holding on to the White House. The words politically are: none of the above, none so far apparently, fits the model of a conservative leader for a conservative party. Will adding another to the lineup remove the rain clouds? The GOP clearly, and in no small terms, is experiencing an identity crisis. Therefore, if crisis spells opportunity......here comes Fred Thompson, former senator from Tennessee; politician turned actor and reportedly, ready to jump into the race. He will be candidate number (11) eleven. And yes, Read more:Freddy
, Rescue
The Political Theatre Presents...... Applause! 2007-06-07 21:21:00 Politics and the drama surrounding politics are always interesting. And moments for applause are sometimes continuous. I have watched all the debates and when asked who won, I had to stop and think real hard; and only because there were no real knock-outs. Clearly there were moments when the candidates gave coherence and meaning to an idea/point-of-view, but for us spectators, and I for one in particular, yearned for that compelling moment which would quiet the noise of the lesser among them. On recall ,who were winners? While I cannot anoint anyone, from my perch I recall no gaffes, neither was anyone elbowed out of the game. Real differences-- no! Few among either the Dems or Republicans. Of course there were strident voices--Senator Clinton emphasizes " This is Bush's war". Senator Obama tries to knock the breath out of Edwards' argument on the war--that he was four and half years late in opposing it. Former governor, Mike Huckabee, scored for the GOP declaring his faith "God crea Read more:Presents
, Applause
Super Duper Primaries-- Politics Re-defined? 2007-06-15 19:57:00 Whether you prefer the term primary compression or front loading, the plan by major states to hold their presidential primaries early raises the likelihood nominees could be chosen in a matter of months. You heard me! By February we could know who the nominees are although most American voters would have had very little chance to know about the candidates. Is front loading the primaries detrimental to our political process? And is it about re-defining party, politics and participation has we have come to know it? Are party bosses out of control? Have they succeeded in making conventions meaningless? Is the American political landscape being drastically re-defined
? Can anyone without access to "real money" ever get chance to be president?While for years states have been moving up their primaries to January and February, now states like Florida, California and New Jersey have joined in. This move could sway, if not decide who will be the nominees months ahead of the election. Not to ment Read more:Super
Bloomberg Dumps GOP Tag-- GOES INDEPENDENT! 2007-06-22 14:24:00 Evidently the New York brand is top-of -the line......Yes, there are three candidates vying for the presidency all from the state of New York. Wow! Talk about politics and power New Yorkers apparently eat it and ......drink it too. There is Hillary, Rudy Giuliani and now the buzz is Mayor Michael Bloomberg
has dumped his GOP tag and gone Independent. In the seventies it was Ralph Nader, after which followed John Anderson and later Ross Perot. But in the process their political tents all collapsed.Perot when he ran had bout 19 percent support among those clamoring for change. There was much excitement that something new was coming-- and particularly on college campuses, there was much hope about rocking the political status quo. Unfortunately the third party, independent parachutes blew out mid air-- and the Independents, and the idea of a third party crashed.But testing the political waters is always enticing especially during times of crises and polarization. So here comes another can Read more:Dumps
Immigration Reform--DEAD FOR NOW!! 2007-06-29 22:36:00 Immigration Reform
, Act II......... This bill and the showdown which continued after several days of amendments, finally ended. Democrats among the strongest supporters of the bill came to understand that it could not survive. Despite the force of pressure groups/interest groups, lobbyists--you name it, the bill said to be written in backroom negotiations by a small group of Democrats and Republicans took its final breath. Passage was blocked; and immigration reform is for now...... dead. What will be the political fallout?While no visible tears were shown by supporters of President Bush's plan to legalize millions of undocumented immigrants, the pain was apparent. The bill fell short of the sixty votes needed to limit the debate which would have cleared the way for final passage of the legislation. Criticized harshly that it would provide amnesty for illegals, it now appears there are no chances for a second act--until possibly after the elections in 2008. Prior to the final drum bea Read more:Immigration Reform
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