Soul Voice...

Calling The President A D**k? New Low!!

2011-06-30T07:25:00.000-07:00

Have we reached a new low in this nation? Have we lost all sense of high morals and respect for position? Case in point. On the recent "Morning (Joke) Joe" show, hosted by Joe Scarborough and that ditzy blonde sidekick of his, Mika Brzezinski, one of the regular guests to the show, one Mark Halperin, editor-at-large for Time, called President Obama “a dick”. (http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0611/58098.html#ixzz1Qll7bYDA)

Indeed, the President's policies are not working, because of which he has lost many of the independent "White" voters of 2008––and I doubt he can get them back.

And while it's true that the President has angered many in the African American community because the conditions in our Black neighborhoods, and among our people are markedly worse since he took office.

And yes, the Islams, led by Dr. Louis Farrakhan are furious with Obama because of his attacks and intent to kill, or oust from power, their fellow brother Muammar Muhammad al-Gaddafi. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OY-_JsNrxiM).

And, of course many... many, of the Jews who supported him in his first bid for the White House have packed up and abandoned him because of his 1967 borders position.

And... and... and... the list goes on: unemployment numbers staggeringly high, gas prices off-the-chain-and no "drill baby drill" in the near future, home foreclosures are through the roof, selling U.S. assault weapons/guns to drug cartel boys in Mexico––under the radar. So, it's okay and fair game to criticize the President's policies––even if he is half-Black... Heck, when he signed on for the job as President, he gave permission for his actions, his family, his record, his mamma-- whatever-- to be open for criticism.

Criticism is one thing... but, to call the President of the United States a "d**k" on live television... for the whole world to see and our enemies to agree... now that's a new low! Halperin needs to go.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ro8YrPDQTm0&feature=player_embedded

Congress Votes To Cut Up Nation's Credit Cards?

2011-05-31T19:54:00.000-07:00

In a symbolic vote designed to appease the American people-- who are largely against raising the debt ceiling –– Congress voted overwhelmingly against The Bill.

According to an article in the New American:

"As expected, the bill to raise the federal debt ceiling that House Republicans brought to a quick vote today failed overwhelmingly. The bill, which would have unconditionally increased the debt limit by $2.4 trillion — the precise amount requested by the Obama administration — garnered only 97 Yea votes, all from Democrats. A combined 318 Democrats and Republicans voted Nay, and seven Democrats voted Present.

There was political maneuvering all around. The bill was introduced by Rep. Dave Camp (R-Mich.), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, who then took to the floor of the House to denounce his own legislation, saying his bill “will and must fail ... because it sends a clear and critical message that the Congress has finally recognized we must immediately begin to rein in America’s affection for deficit spending.”

The Obama administration has for some time been requesting a vote on a “clean” bill such as this, so the GOP gave it to them. However, Republicans also handed their adversaries the means of escape in the process. First, they announced loudly that the vote was to be purely symbolic and that the bill would be defeated, even going so far as to call “Wall Street to assure them this was nothing more than theater,” according to Politico. Second, they brought the bill to a vote under a suspension of rules, meaning it would come to a vote quickly and with limited debate — but it would also need a two-thirds vote in favor to pass, something that was most assuredly not going to happen with a GOP majority. Democrats were thus able to dismiss the vote as “a sham” (Connecticut Rep. John Larson), “demagogic” (Maryland Rep. Steny Hoyer), and “irresponsible grandstanding” (Maryland Rep. Donna Edwards) and to safely vote against it".

http://www.thenewamerican.com/usnews/congress/7692-symbolic-debt-ceiling-bill-voted-down

The next few weeks will be critical as all eyes are now on the GOP-led Congress to see if this was a prelude to getting America's fiscal house in order ... or just a ruse to try and fool the American people while those in Washington keep playing games and this nation continues to slide further into bankruptcy.

Beware elected Leaders! Americans are tired of shenanigans. Hear us: CUT UP THE CREDIT CARDS NOW...AND LIVE WITHIN OUR MEANS. We are watching you!!!

OMG! Obama Spits In Netanyahu's Face--AGAIN

2011-05-19T10:51:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here, stunned and in disbelief. Did––for the first time in the history of this country––the sitting President of the United States of America actually, and purposefully say what I just heard him say? Talk about spitting in the face of Israel's Bibi Netanyahu one day before he was slated to visit this country and address both Houses of Congress.

It is totally unbelievable, but true. President Barack Obama delivered his long-awaited "Arab Spring" speech today and the most significant take-away from his 45-minute delivery was the following:

"So while the core issues of the conflict must be negotiated, the basis of those negotiations is clear: a viable Palestine, and a secure Israel. The United States believes that negotiations should result in two states, with permanent Palestinian borders with Israel, Jordan, and Egypt, and permanent Israeli borders with Palestine. The borders of Israel and Palestine should be based on the 1967 lines with mutually agreed swaps, so that secure and recognized borders are established for both states. The Palestinian people must have the right to govern themselves, and reach their potential, in a sovereign and contiguous state".

Go back to the 1967 BORDERS??? For real??? What was our president thinking when he uttered those fighting words? Does he not know that American Christians, and Jews across the globe will never stand for this to happen? Is he trying to usher in WW3? Is Netanyahu going to allow himself, and Israel, to be "one-upped", "neutered", and smacked-down by Obama AGAIN (remember, he was dissed by the president before during a different visit to the White House).

Well... the eyes of the world now hone in on Netanyahu. If he lets this statement reverberate another day in the news and throughout the global blogsville... he may as well go back to Israel and begin packing his political moving boxes, baby!

This is UNBELIEVABLE!!!!

I'm Back in the Saddle

2011-05-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

My how the world has changed since my last blog post in October 2009. Having spent the past eighteen months dealing with some health challenges, it is so good to be well and back in the saddle again.

Until I get my strength back full force... I will only post new editorials twice per week. But as I get better, I will increase my postings accordingly.

So, let's recap the top issues and where we stand in this nation and world.

First and foremost... this economy is a mess. Unemployment numbers are high, gas prices are high, foreclosures and people who are just walking off leaving their homes--high, U.S. debt is unsustainably high, and taxes, taxes and more taxes on average Americans are ridiculously high! We need help.

The Tea Party movement has highjacked the Republican Party and holding its leadership hostage. The Democratic Party continues to lose credibility by the day. At this juncture, the American people are by and large distrusting of both parties, and most of its elected officials in Congress.

President Obama is on the verge of making history as the only Black man who (in two years time) has successfully neutered, removed, marginalized and/or murdered every male leader-of-color in the world. Both of the Jesse Jacksons--neutered, Mubarak of Egypt--gone, Saleh of Yemen--marginalized, Bin Laden--dead, al-Assad of Syria--well?, Chavez--marginalized, Jeremiah Wright--under the bus, and the list is increasing daily. Talk about "Change"... Obama is on a roll!

And, speaking of Osama Bin Laden... I wonder since he has been officially declared dead now, does that mean the troops will no longer be needed to fight in Afghanistan and Iraq? Enquiring minds really want to know.

Well enough of the bad news. The good news of the day is: We have had no terror attacks on our soil since 9/11, no major tsunamis, earthquakes or other catastrophic disasters in America... such as other countries have had. So as we lay our heads on our pillows tonight, be glad things are as well as they can be. And be thankful that we can all live another day.

I'm BAAAAACK!

President Obama, Please Pick Winnable Fights

2009-10-20T07:50:00.000-07:00

Without a doubt, the recent war, declared by Barack Obama against the Fox News Channel, has lessened not only the office of the President... but has reduced Obama's stature to that of a local mayor or alderman. That's what local politicians do... whine and complain about who-said-what-about-them.

How could the leader of the free world allow himself to get into a shouting match with a news network? He should have stayed above that! Heck, if you combine the clout of O'Reilly, Hannity, Beck, Cavuto, Wallace, et. al, it should never equal or match the bully pulpit of the president. So, for Obama to cede the power he possesed via the largest megaphone in the world to some quasi journalists/television news personalities, has marginalized him and the prestige of presidency.

Quite frankly, it is an embarrassment to see Fox newsman, Brit Hume, chastise and ridicule President Obama, and his White House, for picking this petty fight with their network because of how Fox chooses to report stories on the president and his policies. But Obama elevated Hume and company to his level... so they can ridicule him now, and for the duration of his presidency, as if they are his equal.

Tom Bevan of Real Clear Politics, has adequately put this contentious battle in terms that continues to resonate in coffee houses across the nation:

"It's actually quite brazen when you think about it. The two most senior members of the Obama White House - men who control all the information and access to the Executive Branch, the lifeblood of most news organizations - went on national television and suggested that ABC, CNN and other networks follow the White House's lead and join in its war to marginalize a competitor because it takes a "perspective" that displeases the President.

Such tactics may not be frowned upon by brass-knuckle operatives working for the political machine in a one party town. But it's different when you're the President of the United States. Most Americans of all political stripes don't want to see the President using the majesty and power of his office for heavy handed attacks on any organization simply because it has been critical of the President".

C'mon Obama... call off your attack dogs and put an end to this unwinnable fight. Look like the president that you are!

You can start by having your office call that red phone that Mr. Glenn Beck has visibly displayed on his television program––which is allegedly linked directly to the White House. Assign someone from your staff to call Beck's phone and refute those scurrilous charges and accusations being leveled at your administration and your policies. Everyday that phone doesn't ring, increases viewers to that network, as folks are beginning to believe what is being said and passing the information along to their friends and neighbors.

Mr. President, this is a battle you cannot win! So, instead of attacking Fox News, and those on that network with the cheap shots from Dunn, Axelrod and Emmanuel... schedule an interview with one of their journalists––sooner rather than later. This will demonstrate you are the man, and not afraid of their news or their views!

Obama Wise To Take His Time On Afghanistan

2009-10-08T12:34:00.000-07:00

According to a recent report on the Fox News' website:

"President Obama is inclined to send only as many more U.S. troops to Afghanistan as are needed to keep Al Qaeda at bay, a senior administration official said".

If this proves to be true... good for President Obama! The decision to send someone's son, daughter, husband, wife off to war is a very serious one. And it should not be made quickly or without much prayer and thought. With that said, I applaud President Obama for taking his time to carefully think through how he will proceed in the war in Afghanistan.

A war-weary nation wants this eight year war to come to an end––sooner rather than later. People who were all gung-ho immediately following the attacks of 9/11 are now asking these questions in coffee shops and workout places: What is the purpose of this war? What is the 'win' for us... or our troops?

Even the soldiers are losing morale according to a noted European online news service:

“The many soldiers who come to see us have a sense of futility and anger about being here. They are really in a state of depression and despair and just want to get back to their families,” said Captain Jeff Masengale, of the 10th Mountain Division’s 2-87 Infantry Battalion.

“They feel they are risking their lives for progress that’s hard to discern,” said Captain Sam Rico, of the Division’s 4-25 Field Artillery Battalion. “They are tired, strained, confused and just want to get through.” The chaplains said that they were speaking out because the men could not. www.timesonline.co.uk

Sure, there are those who will call Obama weak or indecisive for not moving ahead with the battle plan as laid out by General McChrystal. But... as Commander-In-Chief, does Obama really want the kind of blood on his hands from the young lives that will be lost in what will be a long sustained occupation? Can he sleep at night remembering the faces of the many troops who will never celebrate another Christmas... see another loved one graduate from school... miss out on raising their young children?

Say what you will... but I am pleased with the president taking the next two or three weeks to ponder this weighty decision. Pray that God gives him direction!

"...the White House will become the Muslim house.”

2009-09-24T09:45:00.000-07:00

As thousands of Muslims converge on the steps of the Capitol on September 25th to celebrate a NATIONAL PRAYER DAY, there are so many questions swirling around–– particularly what is the purpose and long term outcome of this event.

Without a doubt, fear of the Islamic religion by some in America is a chief underlying cause for much of the apprehension and questions. Questions such as: ARE CHRISTIANS AND JEWS WELCOME TO COME AND PRAY AS WELL? ••• WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THEIR THEME "OUR TIME HAS COME?" COME TO DO, BE OR SAY WHAT? ••• IS ISLAM TRYING TO REPLACE LONG STANDING JUDO-CHRISTIAN BELIEFS AS THE PREMIER RELIGION IN THE U.S.? ••• IS THIS PART OF THE CHANGE THAT PRESIDENT BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA WAS ALLUDING TO DURING HIS PRESIDENTIAL BID?

These, and other questions, are prompting people in breadbasket America to wonder just "what is going on"??

In addition, sound bites by major event organizers, such as: "...the White House will become the Muslim house”, and other information as posted by the prayer organizers on their website––designed to clarify the event's purpose––actually raises more questions, than provides answers. According to Islamoncapitolhill.com website:

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH....   The objective of this gathering is to invite the Muslim Communities and friends of Islam to express and illustrate the wonderful diversity of Islam. We intend to manifest Islam's majestic spiritual principals as revealed by Allah to our beloved prophet   Muhammad (PEACE BE UPON HIM) of Arabia. Likewise; we intend to inspire a new generation of Muslim to work for the greater good of all people. We shall serve all   people, regardless of race, religion or national origin.  

Now, most Americans are for diversity, inclusion, and for allowing religious expression to all. However, taking in to consideration that the U.S. is just 8-short years post-9/11... and the hijackers who attacked this country were alleged Muslims... there are some out here who may not be ready to see a mass rally of our Muslim brothers and sisters gathered in the nation's Capitol declaring "our time has come".

Even if the prayer's purpose is peaceful... the visual of 20,000+ Islam worshippers, praying to their God at the backdoor of the White House, may be overwhelming to even the most broad-minded of people––to say the least.

South Carolina Representative Calls President A Liar

2009-09-10T14:23:00.000-07:00

It is unfortunate that Congressman Joe Wilson, (R-SC) behaved in such a disrespectful manner during the President of the United States' address to the joint houses of Congress. I commend President Obama for keeping his cool and I believe that Representative Wilson did the right thing by apologizing forthwith.

Many comments have been made regarding respecting the Office of the President... however, I would like to suggest that our elected leaders display common decency and respect toward each other. A real person, President Barack H. Obama, is currently serving in the highest office in the land, and is the leader of the free world. He deserves respect–– as a man first––and then because of the title and office he holds. People can say what they like but the fact remains that he is, and will be our President for the next several years.

So I recommend: Enough with the red herrings and ice cream covered hypocrisy - let's be real. It is no secret that some Americans are still abhorred at the fact that we have a President of Color. Well, to them I say: GET OVER IT. This is America! A melting pot of the world.

The Declaration of Independence states:

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. 4-JULY-1776"

I believe that a fundamental shift is necessary in America. We must take a bath in Truth and realize that the word ALL means ALL.

Blog post submitted by Guest Blogger, Andrew J. Lewis; Jackson, MS

Fox Network Says "NO" To Obama's Speech To Congress

2009-09-05T06:18:00.000-07:00

EXTRA EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT!!

“The Fox Broadcasting Company will not air the Presidential Address to Congress on Wednesday, September 9 at 8:00 PM (ET). FOX’s sister networks, Fox News Channel and the Fox Business Network will air the presidential address in its entirety. FOX will alert viewers with an on-screen graphic at the top of the 8:00 PM (ET) hour that the presidential address is available on Fox News Channel and the Fox Business Network.”

Has this sort of repudiation or "in-your-face-dissing" of a U.S. President by a major network ever happened in the history of the nation? And by Fox Broadcasting of all stations?

This is significant. Will their actions prompt other stations to refuse airing future addresses by the President–– as this is his 5th prime time speech in his eight month tenure. And, bottome line... each presidential speech means a loss of revenue for that time slot for those stations.

Currently, Fox News Channel, which boasts of being the number one television news network in the nation, available to approximately 102 million households in the U.S. alone... not to mention its international audience, will carry the President "live", as will its other sister station, Fox Business.

So let's examine this. If just a mere 30% of the national audience decide they don't care to hear President Obama's healthcare speech and don't watch him, or tune into Fox Broadcasting for alternative programming, i.e. the Simpsons, et. al... and Foxs' ratings blow through the roof on that evening, well, this could be a major problem for the President, especially on an issue as important as healthcare.

Where are we headed in this country? Yes... it was the complicit main stream media who made Obama and helped propel him to the White House... but now, will it be a lone, defiant, conservative driven network's refusal to comply with a Presidential address that will further erode Obama's power and demean the power of the office? Wow... it could be. This sort of behavior has been here-to-fore... unheard of! I guess this is all part of that 'Change' thingy.

Stay tuned.

GOP: Great White Hope Needed To Derail Obama?

2009-08-27T12:48:00.000-07:00

Some people in the Republican Party have seemingly lost their minds since the election of Barack Hussein Obama! Some of these folks can't seem to let it go that Barack Obama is black, and he is the president. End of story.

Now, it is down right ludicrous some of the words emanating from the lips of some GOP leaders. Case in point, Topeka Republican Rep. Lynn Jenkins, during a recent town hall meeting said that Republicans would need to embrace a great "White Hope" to derail the agenda of President Barack Obama and Congressional Democrats.

What???? "Great White Hope"? And this great White Hope's job is to do what exactly? Will he display super human strength or a superior intellect to discount Obama's? Will he corral or woo those hundreds of thousands of white voters who voted for Obama and convince them to vote 'white only' in the next election? What???

I had hoped these words were a misprint of what was said... because it is hard to believe she really said that.

But, according to The Topeka Capital-Journal, Jenkins identifies three potential members of the U.S. House of Representatives as these "Great White Hopes" -- House Republican Whip Eric Cantor (R-VA), Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI). All are future leaders in the GOP... and all three are white, as is Jenkins.

"So don't, you know, lose faith if you are a conservative," Jenkins went on to say.

So, help me here... no other nationality has the 'juice' to take Obama down? No great "Hispanic Hope"? Or great "Asian Hope"... or even a great "Black or Indian Hope" has the political muscle to derail the Obama agenda? Is Jenkins' and other white GOP brothers/sisters thinking that only a white male has the power to dethrone the half white/half black Obama? Unbelieveable....

And the GOP leadership continues to wonder why they can't attract minorities to the Republican tent in any sizeable numbers. Augh!

Martha's Vineyard Vacation May Seal Obama's Fate

2009-08-23T14:36:00.000-07:00

Whoever advised President Barack Obama to go on a week's vacation in elite's-ville a/k/a Martha's Vineyard, especially in the midst of the worst economic times evah... must have really hated the president's guts. Now another day or another time... there would be nothing wrong with the Obama's going wherever they wanted to go for vacation.

But what? With so many Americans feeling the impact of this brutal economy: either someone in their family or someone close to them out of work; credit cards–– which often served as mini-loans that helped keep the family budget afloat from month to month–– now maxed out and financial ruin on the horizon; daily reports of run away government spending that may mean an increase in their taxes; the hundreds of thousands of Americans losing, or walking away from their homes and living in uncertainty from week to week... not knowing how, or if they are going to make it... just which of Obama's advisers suggested to him to spend his vacation in a luxurious, expensive, hotty-totty, Republican-owned home in the richest neighborhood in the nation? While most folks in the U.S. couldn't even afford to take the grandchildren to grandma's house this summer, or buy a steak, or take their family to a movie because many are 'broke'... the president should have sacrificed this vacation spot this year to show he is in sync with the majority of the nation.

The spot: the Blue Heron Farm, a 28-acre retreat in the town of Chilmark, once deemed one of the most expensive towns in America, is among a stable of resorts that fetch $35,000 to $50,000 a week. It has been widely reported that the Obamas "are paying their own way", and that taxpayers will not pay for his, and his family's, portion of the rental property. But taxpayers will have to pay for the space being occupied by his huge entourage.

Granted, this vacation spot decision was probably made to allow him, and his family, the opportunity to attend the wedding of Chelsea Clinton, slated on Martha's Vineyard next week. But... wisdom should have kicked in and the president's better 'judgment'–– which was emphasized during his campaign as a strong suite of his–– should have made him realize that this is neither the right time, nor is this the economic or political climate to appear extravagant, elitist, or in any way 'above-the-hurting-people' he serves.

Perhaps, he should have taken his family to a Motel 6 in middle America, and spent his week eating burgers and fries, visiting homeless shelters and distributing food to the new poor. A vacation such as that would have shown that he "gets it", that he relates to the masses in America... and just may have helped his 'sure-to-continue' plummeting poll numbers.

Martha's Vineyard. Not a good idea. Not now!

Americans Direct Anger At Obama

2009-08-14T12:53:00.000-07:00

Gee... I go on vacation for 2 weeks to enjoy my grand babies, when I return to bloggersville, it seems as if America has gone completely 'postal'. There is this explosively charged atmosphere and vitriolic anger that's hovering in the air. And quite frankly, it is very dangerous.

Are these angry Americans true patriots or are they mean hate mobs? Well, from what the pictures depict, this anger is not only real... but it appears that it is not going away anytime soon. What seems to be at the root of this anger is that people who gave President Obama the benefit of the doubt and voted for him back in November are finding out the following each day:

- that his promises or his 'word' is only good for that moment;
- he is less than truthful when talking to the American people on key issues––often misrepresenting the facts or just boldly fibbing;
- his style (which sometimes includes ridicule of opponents, public chastisement of groups of people; portraying himself or his beliefs as one way, but representing or acting out his true core values and beliefs completely opposite of what he says) is offensive

It's time President Obama's inner circle of advisors speak truth to him... and do it quickly. But not only that... he would do himself well if he listens to them, get his ego in check, and move back toward governing the nation from the center. If he does not, he will lose the rest of the Independents and those who bit the bullet and voted for him over McCain, and never get them back.

Another point he needs to consider and do it post haste: stop pissing off Israel and Bibi Netanyahu. Every U.S. leader who has supported Israel... has been blessed with God's favor, and the nation as well. Israel is our ally and we don't need President Obama jeopardizing the years of harmonious relationship by alienating the Jews!

President Obama has time to either turn his presidency and legacy around now... or continue on his present path: the fast track to becoming a lame duck President for the remainder of his term, and a one-term president come 2012. He needs to decide his course of action during his summer vacation.... because from all indications, those 'bitter, bible thumping, gun toting patriot/mobs' are only going to get bigger, louder, and more angry!

CUPCAKES???? I Know Obama Didn't Say That To The American People!!!

2009-07-30T14:23:00.000-07:00

You know... I refuse to even blog on President Obama's latest insulting attempt at humor to try and justify the 'non-stimulating' stimulus bill. I will just let the picture and the words speak for themselves:

Obama says, “we helped stop a recession from becoming a depression,” and explains how the jobs programs in the stimulus are helping. Says tax cuts are helping people buy “cupcakes and other necessities of life.”

CUPCAKES???? A necessity of life?????!!???

Obama Show Your Records - PLEASE!

2009-07-25T14:04:00.000-07:00

Way back in June 2008, I posted the following on this blog relative to Barack Obama and the birth certificate atomic bomb:

From feed-back received to this blog, the voting public want more transparency as it relates to this presumptive Democratic nominee. For instance... the blogging community wants to see any, and all, of Senator Obama's Illinois State Senate daily logs, pertinent papers, records, etc.

Because the Senator has literally come out of no where onto the national stage... a request of his State Senate diaries, logs, and records is fair. The excuses from his camp continue to mount... and still limited amount of his records have been produced, and is raising eyebrows and casting doubt. The Republicans are going to hound Obama on this issue until he produces them. So... go ahead and bring the files out now!

And, there are others who repeatedly request he produce an original, authentic, officially-signed birth certificate for the world to see. What's the big deal... and why won't he come clean and show it? All of the "it's-none-of-your-business-drama" surrounding that request is a smoke-screen.

What will the actual birth certificate reveal? That Obama was born illegitimate? So what. He is not the first... nor will he be the last illegitimate birth in the world. That his race maybe listed as 'Caucasian'? Non-issue! His skin tone reflects he's Black... Put the real birth certificate out there–– sooner rather than later–– and let the chips fall where they may.

Did Obama comply and give up the much sought-after paperwork? NO!

This blog even went a step further and wrote an open letter to the President immediately following his election in November 2008 which was picked up by and posted on several other national blogs:

I am writing this open letter to you today on behalf of both sides. Mr. President-elect, surely you know that there is a 'tempest in the teapot' brewing regarding the vault version of your birth certificate. And, only you, Sir, can bring closure to this issue.

...the issue is surfacing in main line media outlets as well, American citizens–– yes, the ones who voted for you... and the ones who did not–– are 'bewildered' that you feel the need to pay money (in the midst of a recession) to three major law firms to make sure that the American people, who you wish to serve, cannot have access to your birth records in Hawaii or your college transcripts. Speculation is running rampant that you received aid as a foreign student. So, instead of relishing in your victory, those who supported you are having to confront these allegations daily...without documentation or ammunition to counter the claims.

So, please Mr. Obama... for the sake of all the people who supported and voted for you... and, also to quiet (once, and for all) the skeptics, naysayers, and people who already deem your presidency 'illegitimate', do like Senator John McCain did, and present your birth certificate to the American people today.

Now... I know that I am no where near as smart as President Obama... but one thing I am pretty astute at: reading people and forecasting upcoming moods in the U.S. I knew back in June of last year that this issue is NOT going away, and will bog down this young president's agenda as long as he keeps stalling.

President Obama, for the last time, please just release your records so you can move on. You will not have any peace or any credibility in middle America until you do!

President Obama's Mojo Needs Reworking––Quick!

2009-07-20T13:13:00.000-07:00

A recent Washington Post-ABC News poll has President Barack Obama’s public approval numbers dropping like a lead balloon. This poll shows Obama' disapproval rating has climbed 11 percent in the last three months and his approval ratings are down ten points.

That is a steep drop by anyone's calculation. With merely 180-days under his belt as Commander-in-Chief, Obama's inner circle of advisors most certainly are concerned about these poll numbers.

Conventional wisdom says Obama's sinking numbers are a reflection of voters now experiencing buyers remorse and also reflects the hundreds of thousands of Independents and Obamacans (Republicans who voted for Obama during the 2008 election) who are especially troubled and disenchanted with his cap and trade and health care reform bills.

"While he still has a majority of America on his side, according to the latest Washington Post/ABC News Poll, when asked specifically about the economy, health care, and unemployment, President Obama’s support is slipping, with a low of 43% approval when it comes to the deficit". www.examiner.com ~ July 20, 2009

.

Another disturbing indicator to add to Obama's poll troubles is that approximately 44 percent of Americans now say they don't trust Obama to handle health care and that number may rise after his budget chief, Peter Orszag, said on a recent Sunday talk show that abortions may be included in the final package Obama signs.

The president seemingly has lost his shine. And in this instant-grits-gotta-have-it-right-now society... if he doesn't get his mojo back working before the August recess, it may be lost forever–– rendering him impotent for the remainder of his presidency!

Michael Steele: What Are You Saying?

2009-07-14T12:21:00.000-07:00

During a recent meeting with a group of young Republicans, GOP National Committee Chairman, Michael Steele, told the crowd that he would reach out to black voters by offering them fried chicken and potato salad. His remarks were an answer to a question directed at him from the audience on how he planned to woo African Americans to the Republican party.

The exchange with Steel and participants in the audience went as follows::

"My plan is to say 'Y'all come,' because a lot of you are already here", said Steel. Someone in the audience said, "I'll bring the collard greens," and Steele replied, "I got the fried chicken and potato salad."

If this is the strategy the Republicans plan to put forward to galvanize Black voters to the tent, then it will not be successful. These remarks were not funny and can be construed, by many, as quite condescending.

The Barracuda Turns Political World Topsy Turvy

2009-07-03T15:29:00.000-07:00

Governor Sarah Palin of Alaska has dropped one of the biggest bomb shells of the year. On a slow news day and the eve of Independence Day, the 2008 Vice Presidential candidate called, what many had thought to be a routine press conference, and instead announced to the world that she will be quitting her position as Governor effective in two weeks.

Speculations are running rampant throughout the DC beltway surrounding this unexpected announcement... and the bloggers have had a field day trying to guess what the real reason behind her move. According to Jonathan Martin at Politico.com:

"Two of her own GOP allies were told this week that Palin would announce that she was definitely not running for re-election, but the move to outright leave office has caught many of her supporters by surprise".

Governor Palin has suffered some of the severest and cruelest criticism of any candidate in recent political history. Verbal attacks directed toward her children and the constant and continual ethics probes she has faced since she came from obscurity last year as Senator John McCain's running mate, are rumored to have taken their toll on the Barracuda.

MSNBC's Andrea Mitchell say her sources revealed that she (Palin) has "had it" with national politics and is sick of it. Mitchell also added that Palin does not plan to pursue the Republican nomination in 2012.

Palin has definitely turned the political world upside-down. As her followers wait and see what her future plans are, those in Republican party need to come up with a strategy and a plan if they hope to stop the party's implosion!

GOP Leadership Is Self-Destructing Right Before Our Eyes

2009-06-24T12:36:00.000-07:00

It has been said that: "Absolute power does corrupt absolutely". Indeed the Republican leadership continues to authenticate that saying.

What is with these fellas? Too much time on their hands? Too much money? Too much power prompting them to believe they can do anything and live any kind of way and get away with it?

It appears that the GOP leadership is self-destructing right in front of our eyes. First it was the revelation of an extramarital affair involving Vitter from Louisiana. Then, Ensign of Nevada came out under pressure and admitted his own infidelity... and now, South Carolina Governor Sanford comes clean about his mysterious five day disappearance which involved cheating on his wife "with a dear, dear friend from Argentina".

The longstanding GOP 'family values' mantra has been trampled by these good 'old boys! No wonder so many people in America are abandoning the Republican party in droves. The hypocrisy... and the double standards are an insult to thinking voters.

And it matters not that Mrs. Sanford released the following "stand-by-her-man-statement ":

"I believe enduring love is primarily a commitment and an act of will, and for a marriage to be successful, that commitment must be reciprocal," Jenny Sanford said. "I remain willing to forgive Mark completely for his indiscretions and to welcome him back, in time, if he continues to work toward reconciliation with a true spirit of humility and repentance."

Governor Sanford has proved he is a liar, a cheat, and has forfeited the public trust.

The GOP needs to groom new leaders and get rid of these corrupted hypocrites... and HOPE the party can be ready for primetime in 2016!

BREAKING NEWS UPDATE: Kim Jung Il To U.S. President: Do Something

2009-06-18T17:37:00.000-07:00

North Korean leader Kim Jung Il has upped the ante in his trash-talk to President Obama. The Dear Leader not only dares the U.S. to board his ship, Kang Nam, which left from a port in North Korea recently and could possibly be carrying missile parts or nuclear materials in violation of a UN sanction... but Jung Il has now publicly put the U.S. President on front street by threatening to fire a new round of missiles directly toward Obama's backyard: HAWAII!

After watching President Barack Hussein Obama mercilessly and calculatingly slap the snot out of that 'fly' on national television for annoying him and trying to make him look bad during the CNBC interview, and never even batted his eye or wiped his hands afterwards, it became apparent that Obama is ruthless and my money is on him. Look out Kim Jung Il

And who was that said Obama looks like he wouldn't harm a fly? Pul-leeze!

Kim Jung Il to U.S. President: Do Something Obama

2009-06-13T06:54:00.000-07:00

North Korea's ailing leader, Kim Jung Il, has now gone way beyond his usual rhetoric and jive-talking––which earned him, and his country, a place as one of the Axis of Evil nations under the Bush administration. In an official threat to the United States of America, North Korea's Dear Leader declared it was now in the "early phase of all-out confrontation with the US"... raising tensions between the two countries to a very dangerous level.

Angered because of a new round of sanctions that the United Nations ordered against his country for the recent testing of a second nuclear missile, Kim Jung Il has now decided to take the less-than-150-day-in office-President Barack Obama head on. According to Peter Foster of the Telegraph.co.uk:

In a bellicose statement, Pyongyang described the sanctions as the "vile product" of US policy in the region, adding that it would also begin work enriching uranium as it sought to build up stocks of fissile material for its nuclear weapons programme.

The North is thought to have approximately 8,000 spent plutonium fuel rods which, if reprocessed, could yield 6-8kg of high-grade plutonium, or enough to make at least one more nuclear bomb.

The sanctions have also authorised UN member-states to stop and search North Korean vessels on the high seas if they suspect they are carrying banned nuclear or missile components, a measure that has drawn particular ire from Pyongyang. North Korea replied that any attempt to blockade its ships would be regarded "as an act of war and met with a decisive military response", and promised to meet any confrontation with "all-out confrontation".

The belligerent response to the sanctions order, which explicitly rules out the use of military force, was anticipated by the US which has sought to downplay tensions, repeatedly calling for Pyongyang to return to the negotiating table." www.telegraph.co.uk

Now, I am all for talking and negotiating, and trying to resolve conflicts in a peaceful manner... but when a 67-year old, sick, dictator like Kim Jung Il tells a 46-year old, black leader of the free world that "any attempt to blockade its ships would be regarded 'as an act of war' and met with a decisive military response"... and then goes on to promise to meet any confrontation with 'all-out confrontation'" ... them's fighting words anyway you look at it.

President Obama has put forth his noble, gentleman, Rodney King 'why-can't-we-all-get-along' position, but North Korea's Dear Leader is using his clenched fist to pat his butt at Obama and America... and that is unacceptable!!!

The world is watching us. It's time for President Obama to do something––not SAY something–– to let this rogue leader, and all other leaders across the globe who may want to try similar actions against this great nation–– that 'Barack Hussein Obama don't play'!

C'mon now. Do something Obama...

Obama Haters: Osama, Khamenei, Hershkowitz, Jung il, To Name A Few...

2009-06-04T11:49:00.000-07:00

President Barack Obama is racking up a list Hater-aide drinkers that resemble the world's list of Who's Who.

On the day of his historic speech to Muslims in Cairo Egypt, the supreme cleric leader of Iran didn't give the country's president, Ahmadinejad, the honors of rebutting Obama's address. No... instead, Khamenei, the chief religious ruler of that region came out swinging–– denouncing the U.S. President's words as 'nothing'... and going as far as to say Obama's words would not result in any change.

"You witness that in Afghanistan, American warplanes bomb people and kill some 150 not once, but 10 and 100 times. They kill people continually. So, terrorist groups, do what you are doing there. If the new president of America wants a change of face, America should change this behaviour. Words and talk will not result in change," Khamenei said.

The Iranian cleric's comments came on the heels of back-to-back scathing, newly released tapes from both the #1 and #2s of Al-Qaeda outfit: al-Zahari and Osama Bin Laden. In an effort to rain on President Obama's parade and discredit his much ballyhooed speech to the Islamic people, Bin Laden released an audio clip that was broadcast on Al Jazeera satellite TV, which accused Barack Obama of giving an "order" to Pakistani leaders to blitz those Talibans who impose Islamic law in the Swat Valley, causing "about a million" civilians to be "homeless and refugees."

Issuing a threat to America and its first African American leader, Bin Laden promised Obama that his Al Qaeda warriors will strike the U.S. for following "in the steps" of George W. Bush. And to add further insult and minimize Obama's influence in the Muslim world, Bin Laden said:

"Obama and his administration have planted new seeds to increase hatred for and revenge against America. So, let the American people prepare to continue reaping what the chiefs of the White House sow during the coming years and decades."

Jumping into the fray to lash out against Obama's Mid-East policy and his speech to the Muslim culture was Jewish leader, Daniel Hershkowitz. In an angered tone Hershkowitz said Obama's speech presented a "fabricated history" and ignored those Palestinians who have not renounced terror.

"The government of Israel is not America's lackey. The relations with the Americans are based on friendship and not submission, and therefore Israel must tell Obama that stopping natural growth in the settlements is a red line," Hershkowiz told the Jerusalem Post.

And on top of all of this drama and collective Obama-bashing currently being played out by these world leaders on the world stage, in the background North Korea's leader Kim Jung il continues firing long and short range missles, and threatening U.S. interests... while daring President Obama to do anything about it.

Well, having been Black all my life, I offer a word of caution to these Obama haters: Osama, Khamenei, Hershkowitz, Jung il, to name a few. They had better watch out. Because... deep down inside of Obama, there must be an 'angry black man' who has some South Chicago 'hood fight' in him. And when he finally becomes unleashed, Obama will probably make each of them bullies look like mild mannered Sunday School teachers by the time his wrath is done!

America Is Broke, Says President Obama

2009-05-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

Huh? Did I miss something?

During a recent C-Span interview, President Barack Obama, in keeping with his pledge to inform the American people of what is really going on and to remain true to his mantra of 'transparency', laid all the cards on the table: the United States "we are out of money".

BUT the confusing part of his message was when he went on to say we need to spend more to fix Medicare and Medicaid. I am missing something here.

Would that be equivalent to having lost my job, and exhausted all of my savings, owing my mama, sisters, co-workers, bigmama, and everybody else I could borrow money from... but continuing to max-out one credit card to pay off another credit card, knowing full well that I have no money, and no way to get any money to pay back family or any of the credit card bills when they come due at the end of the month? Incredible!

Here is the transcript between Obama and Steve Scully, as posted on Drudge Report:

"SCULLY: You know the numbers, $1.7 trillion debt, a national deficit of $11 trillion. At what point do we run out of money?

OBAMA: Well, we are out of money now. We are operating in deep deficits, not caused by any decisions we've made on health care so far. This is a consequence of the crisis that we've seen and in fact our failure to make some good decisions on health care over the last several decades.

So we've got a short-term problem, which is we had to spend a lot of money to salvage our financial system, we had to deal with the auto companies, a huge recession which drains tax revenue at the same time it's putting more pressure on governments to provide unemployment insurance or make sure that food stamps are available for people who have been laid off.

So we have a short-term problem and we also have a long-term problem. The short-term problem is dwarfed by the long-term problem. And the long-term problem is Medicaid and Medicare. If we don't reduce long-term health care inflation substantially, we can't get control of the deficit.

So, one option is just to do nothing. We say, well, it's too expensive for us to make some short-term investments in health care. We can't afford it. We've got this big deficit. Let's just keep the health care system that we've got now". www.drudgereport.com

President Obama needs to come back and explain this interview in detail. This is scary!

Obama's Base Erupts Over His Photos Decision

2009-05-14T10:56:00.000-07:00

President Barack Obama's decision to block the upcoming release of Bush-era detainee abuse photos, has caused quite a firestorm across bloggerville. Obama, who continues to distance himself and demonstrate independence from his left-leaning base, reversed his original position to allow hundreds of 'never-before-seen' photos to be released to the American public after conferring with his military and national security experts.

According to President Obama:

"...publication of these photos would not add any additional benefit to our understanding of what was carried out in the past by a small number of individuals. In fact, the most direct consequence of releasing them would be to further inflame anti-American opinion, and to put our troops in greater danger."

Angry, vile, and vicious comments, aimed specifically at Obama, have been posted on hundreds of blog sites... with many of his faithful followers voicing feelings of betrayal and of being double-crossed by Obama's decision.

"Obama's decision "makes a mockery" of his promise of greater transparency and accountability. By withholding these photographs from public view, the Obama administration is making itself complicit in the Bush administration's torture policies," ACLU attorney Amrit Singh said.

Obama's no fool... and he is a shrewd politician! With a major speech to the Islamic world already being planned, and slated to be held in Egypt one week after the scheduled release of those now canceled inflammatory photos, Obama realizes that his message to that culture would have been lost in the controversy if those photos were circulated prior to his trip. His advisors were wise to counsel him to take the immediate heat from his left-rooted base for the greater gamble of scoring big among the Muslim community around the world with his upcoming speech.

President Obama must continue to govern center-right and keep making the right moves he has been making thus far.

100 Days of President Barack Obama: So Far, So Good

2009-04-29T07:42:00.000-07:00

President Barack Hussein Obama has completed his first 100 days as Commander-in-Chief, and overall his performance has been good. Not great... not awful... but good!

His selection of Senator Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State was an excellent choice––one of the best he has made thus far. This single appointment helped formulate an opinion in the minds of many Americans about this virtually unknown man from Hawaii, Kenya, Indonesia, by-way of Chicago. Choosing Clinton as his Condoleeza Rice demonstrated his ability to to forge alliances––even with his enemies–– for the good of the people. That characteristic will be vitally important as Obama moves to bring warring factions to the table to establish some sort of peace in the Middle East.

Obama's recent release of President Bush's torture documents and soon-to-be-released photos from the Pentagon depicting abuses of several terror detainees, has the potential to backfire and severely hamstring his policy goals going forth. His often repeated position of "moving forward, turning the page, and not wasting valuable time and energy looking back" was the one 'constant' mantra of his which made him look statesmanlike and Reaganesque. But, his obvious reversal of stance by releasing these explosive documents will be a haunting moment in history for him, his administration and the United States... for years to come.

The economy, economy, economy! The jury is still out on President Obama and his treasury team. Amanda Ruggeri of U.S. News.com sums it up best:

"When he launched his campaign for president, Barack Obama could not have foreseen that the signature accomplishment of his first 100 days in office would likely involve spending $787 billion on an economic stimulus package. But the effects of that piece of legislation—one heavy with both expenditures and expectations of economic recovery—may well determine Obama's success as president."

Juggling his concern and commitment for the 'little man'... while keeping the financial titans of Wall Street onboard his rocky boat, has been a feat well worth watching. Obama knows that if he loses the confidence of African Americans by sucking up to or being seen as too appeasing to White establishment... or, if he loses White Americans in mass because he is perceived as being too socialistic by spreading their wealth around to Blacks and other minorities... he will be a one-term President without a doubt. Walking that tightrope is one he will have to do his entire presidency.

President Obama's foriegn policy and interactions with world leaders–– while being criticized by many on the 'Right' as concilliatory––is really quite smart. It would seem that as a black male growing up in Hawaii and Indonesia, Obama probably learned at an early age that his size and color made him suspect and not easy-to-be-trusted by some in the majority. The same judgement and mistrust probably applied when he moved to inner city Chicago–– talking and acting like a White person among the brothers in the 'hood.

So, he more than likely mastered that skill of playing the underdog, the apologist, the weaker one, until he could get his peers to feel comfortable enough with him to include him in their inner circle... as he appears to be quite adept at it. That strategy seems to be working quite well for President Obama even now, as he plays on the world stage. America's size and some of its actions in the past have made her untrustworthy and hated by many around the globe. It's a brilliant move on President Obama's part to play the underdog until other nations, and their leaders, feel comfortable with the U.S. again and embrace us as the leading nation we are.

Overall, Obama has done a good job his first three months in office. His popularity among the people is his saving grace... and he is going to need to maintain that popularity as a tsunami is more than likely waiting for him, and this country, right over the horizon, and guaranteed to test the very core of who and what we are!

Terror In NY: Obama's Plane Does A 911 "Gotcha" Moment

2009-04-27T12:37:00.000-07:00

Startled and afraid New Yorkers were gripped with panic when a low-flying Air Force One look-alike plane flew over the Hudson River today. This scheduled photo-op, which was allegedly sanctioned by the White House, happened early Monday morning, unbeknownst to local residents and, according to Mayor Michael Bloomberg, neither was his office informed of the fly-over as well.

Bloomberg, in an attempt to distance himself from any culpability, stated in a hastily arranged press conference that he did receive "an e-mail notification" which

“...did have the normal language of saying this is sensitive information, should be distributed on a need-to-know basis, that they did not plan to have any publicity about it, which I think is ridiculous and just poor judgment.”

Bloomberg, who was obviously angry at the ill-timed stunt added:

"Why the Defense Department wanted to do a photo-op right around the site of the World Trade Center catastrophe defies imagination. Poor judgment would be a nice ways to phrase it, but they did. I also think that once they had told us, we should have done a better job. Had I known about it, I would have called them right away and asked them not to. It is the federal government and they can do in the end what they please, but I would have tried to stop it. I don’t know there’s a lot else to say other than they shouldn’t have done it".

Many in the main stream media have been hesitant to report on this story. However, eyewitnesses reported that frightened employees evacuated buildings, and pregnant women scurried down flights of stairs. Other accounts were that some people, who possibly survived September 11th, were seen weeping uncontrollably as memories of those two planes, which were commandeered by nineteen Arab hijackers and slammed into the World Trade Center, were revisited.

Whoever authorized this cruel fly-over joke is a dangerous individual who has no place in government in a post 9/11 age. President Obama will surely fire such a person or persons... and offer a sincere apology to the American people for allowing this hoax to be perpetrated under his watch!

The True Winner: Ms. Carrie Prejean

2009-04-22T15:31:00.000-07:00

BY: cheri wells, Memphis, TN.; Guest Blogger

And so, once again Americans can be assured that it is not your honest answer to a question that most people want... but rather, the one that makes them feel most comfortable. Case in point: Miss California, Ms Carrie Prejean, 1st Runner-up to Miss USA 2009.

During the recent nationally televised pageant, she was asked her view on same-sex marriage. Instead of giving a typical nuanced answer, instead of side-stepping the controversial query, instead of hemming and hawing, instead of dancing around that land mine question, instead of giving the judge who posed the question what he wanted to hear, she spoke of her convictions. Ms. Prejean said honestly that she believed what the Bible taught: that marriage should only be between and man and a woman. Period!

She had to know what that answer would mean to her chances of becoming the next Miss USA, but she apparently didn’t care. Ms. Prejean appears to know of whom, and in what she believes, unlike a pastor from her same state, the infamous Pastor Rick Warren, best-selling author of The Purpose-Driven Life and The Purpose-Driven Church. Pastor Warren, who recently appeared on Larry King Live and cowered to popular opinion on the subject of gay marriage, rather than to hold on to his previous position and pastoral integrity.

Unlike Pastor Rick, Carrie remembered Psalm 84:10, which states, "Better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my GOD than dwell in the tents of the wicked".

She chose to be a doorkeeper rather than a door-popper. (All the big ballers and shot callers know what that term means.) Seems like Carrie’s hired; Rick’s fired!

Ms. Prejean must have felt for a brief instance like the students at Columbine High, who, when asked by those bent on a killing spree, if they believed in GOD. Ms. Prejean's two-minute answer is surely being likened to the proverbial shot heard around the world today. This young woman did what many have tried to escape... answered a question, and stood on her beliefs 'unequivocally'.

It is not in the least bit ironic that Ms. Prejean's game-changing event would come on the heels of the April 13th Newsweek front cover and article, which erroneously reported the decline and fall of CHRISTianity in America. It seems that Ms. Carrie Prejean has dismantled the hypothesis behind that article singlehandedly.

Oh... by the way, who won the Miss USA 2009 contest? Funny, her name is on no one’s lips or hearts. Hurray for Carrie, the true winner!

Stimulus Update: GM Will Cut 1,600 Jobs

2009-04-20T12:56:00.000-07:00

A short while ago, Americans were being told that the need to get the bail out money and the stimulus money approved and into the hands of these companies was critical to stemming the hemorrhaging, the financial meltdown, and loss of jobs in this country. These billions of dollars were necessary to jump-start the economy, create jobs, and put Americans back to work.

So, today's announcement to cut approximately 1,600 GM employees from the rolls before the week ends is devastating news. These cuts, by America's leading car manufacturing company, will target white collar, salaried employees, but will also impact the rank-and-file workers as well.

"'This will be a very trying time for the entire GM team, especially for the employees impacted by this action,'" said the email from Troy Clarke, president of GM North America.

Clarke's email told employees that 1,600 of those cuts would take place Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of this week".

President Barack Obama, viewed widely as the defacto CEO of GM after he fired Rick Wagoner, the former chairman and CEO the latter part of March, may take a major hit on this one and be forced to expend any political capital he has left as these cuts and expected Union concessions roll out.

In an email to its membership, the United Auto Workers' leadership urged union workers, their family members and supporters to contact the White House and "insist that workers and retirees must be treated in a fair and equitable manner in any restructuring plans."

"We need President Obama and his auto task force to stand up for the interests of workers and retirees in these restructuring negotiations," the e-mail said. "Please call or e-mail President Obama right away on this critically important issue."

How to square this circle is going to take some doing. Laid off workers will surely want to know: "if the bail out/stimulus money is not keeping the little man, the regular workers on the job... where is all the money going"?

TEA Parties Will Accomplish WHAT Exactly??

2009-04-08T10:30:00.000-07:00

Thousands of communities across this nation are organizing TEA Party Tax Revolt events for April 15th. These T.E.A. (Taxed Enough Already) parties, being billed as a grassroot movement designed to send a message to the elected officials in Washington, appear to be a recipe for clashes and civil unrest.

Understanding that these TEA party events, which have been internet driven and dubbed "peaceful-protest-rallies", are well organized and part of a nationwide movement to demonstrate middle-class Americans furor against increased spending and the need to stop these bailouts with taxpayer money. But, what will prohibit rabble-rousers, and anti-TEA Party zealots, or just-plain-nut-cases from infiltrating these peaceful events and causing trouble or inciting violence? Just asking.

What? With an unusually high degree of anger in the air because so many have lost jobs, homes, 401k and retirement investments... plus a noticed ratcheting of fury and vitriolic feelings across political, cultural and racial lines since the election of President Barack Obama, I must beg the question: are these 'TEA Parties' really a good idea at this time in history? Is any and everyone invited to join in these 'fed-up-with-government-and-ain't-taking-no-more-rallies", i.e., gang members, young angry whites and Blacks, KKK members, skin-heads?

These suburban organizers need to realize that America is not Mayberry anymore. No, our nation is more reflective of that movie: "New Jack City" these days.

My skepticism lies more in "who is in charge and what is to be accomplished"? And recent articles such as Scott Kraus', of themorningcall.com are not reassuring whatsoever:

"No one's sure how big the movement, fueled by politically conservative bloggers and talk radio hosts, and backed by conservative groups headed by former House Majority Leader Dick Armey and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, really is.

Previous rallies in Orlando, Fla., and Cincinnati have drawn several thousand. Others have been smaller. Organizers say there are 500 rallies scheduled in all 50 states on tax day.

The rumblings of unrest reflect genuine angst among fiscal conservatives who value individual responsibility, abhor government spending and suddenly find themselves completely out of power in Washington, said Harrisburg-based Republican political consultant Charlie Gerow."

Maybe it's my old-age showing... but I hope each city has an advanced security plan in place––just in case.

Queen May Have Needed A Hug From Michelle

2009-04-02T07:19:00.000-07:00

The chatter surrounding the hug Michelle Obama gave to Queen Elizabeth during her recent visit to Buckingham Palace seems much ado about nothing. Granted, hundreds of years of established protocol was breached by the now-infamous 'touch'... but it may have taken a woman of African descent finally being invited to the palace to debunk that age old 'don't touch the Queen' tradition.

The Queen didn't seem to mind, as it was she who reached out first and touched Michelle. As a matter of fact, the Queen, who far too often appears void of emotion... may have needed a hug from the touchy feely, 1st Lady Michelle to help her reconnect to every day people!

So, bloggers and international press corp members move on from here. Go sister-girl Michelle.

President Obama Still Can't Close The Sale

2009-03-24T18:48:00.000-07:00

President Barack Obama is in desperate need of recapturing the magic, the spark... the 'mojo' that catapulted him to the highest office in the land, if he has any hopes of selling his huge multi-trillion dollar budget to the public. His professorial-style presentation of the issues and facts during his second White House press conference did not help his cause, as he came off repetitive and boring.

Obama is an extremely intelligent and articulate man, who undoubtedly has command of the issues. But just as he demonstrated so many times throughout the 2008 Democratic primaries, this President continues to have a problem closing the sale.

He tried to sell his plan through the yukking-it-up approach on Jay Leno. The take-away from that encounter was the foot-in-mouth Special Olympics gaffe. He also tried the town hall meeting in an attempt to replicate his reach-out to the average Joe-the-Plumber format that was so effective during the campaign. But, his unfortunate comparison of Wall Street bankers to terrorist/suicide bombers with their fingers on the detonators, overshadowed his message.

And... then President Obama's attempt to convey his economic message and finally close the sale on CBS' 60-Minutes was a complete and total set-back for him, as his inappropriate laughter while discussing such a serious subject was a complete turn off to millions of Americans. He is being excoriated in bloggersville because of that behavior in that interview.

How badly he needed to connect to voters during the press conference held in the East Room of the White House. Right now, he is losing steam and momentum each day he fails to make his point on why he needs all of this money in his budget, where the regular folks can understand and 'get it'. Time will tell if he has what it takes. But time may not be his friend!

Michelle Obama Plants Garden At White House

2009-03-20T15:57:00.000-07:00

All Americans need to take notice and do as First Lady Obama has done: PLANT YOURSELF A GARDEN!!!

The White House garden is aimed to be a symbolic confrontation to childhood obesity, a fast-growing health concern in the US where many are increasingly exasperated by the overwhelming presence of fast food restaurants.

How impressive. You go Michelle...

Cousin Dick Cheney: Obama Honeymoon Is Over!

2009-03-16T13:45:00.000-07:00

What happened to the 100-day honeymoon traditionally allotted to all new U.S. Presidents? It seems that the approximate 45+ days remaining in the Obama honeymoon has been nixed. Yes, the love fest between the American people and President Barack Obama has come to a screeching halt.

The media shills, who just a few months ago were loudly exclaiming 'hosanna to Obama', are now beginning to yell 'crucify' him, as many are openly criticizing the 44th President's every move. It is unfathomable that media pundits and talking heads, such as David Gergen, Chris Matthews and David S. Broder are currently leading the chorus to declare the Obama presidency annulled.

Online news source, The Examiner, noted that in a recent Washington Post op-ed:

"[David S.] Broder points out that the main challenge is now coming from the mainstream media as well as the conservative wing. He thinks that some thoughtful congressional Democrats worry that Obama has bitten off more than he can chew. All of this may signal that the honeymoon is over long before the first 100 days have past." www.examiner.com

Other notables, such as Townhall's Mark Hillman, in this recent piece all but called President Obama a 'cry-baby'...admonishing him to quit blaming Bush and 'suck-it-up':

"Bush didn't spend the next few months claiming that he "inherited" a national security mess, nor did he complain about the economy which faltered in two of the final three quarters under President Clinton before contracting again in Bush's first year.

Likewise, President Reagan didn't whine about the soaring unemployment and burgeoning inflation that awaited him after President Carter's tenure.

These men understood that they campaigned for the opportunity to serve as President and to lead by making difficult, sometimes unpopular decisions.

That's why President Obama's transformation from a candidate of hope and change to a president of gloom, blame and opportunism is so disappointing - even for those who didn't buy what he was selling as a candidate. His ability to truly inspire 53% of the voters seemed, at least, refreshing.

Now, the Obama team takes every opportunity to complain that they "inherited" a deficit, an "economic crisis," and "a big mess."

No hope, just bellyaching".

www.townhall.com/Columnists/MarkHillman/2009/03/16/big_boy_britches_for_obama

And what about the massive tea-party-protests being played out across the nation? Voters appear to be experiencing buyers remorse and taking to the streets to complain about the stimulus package and the increased taxes that the new President and Congress have proposed. Whoever heard of protesting a president half-way through his first 100-days?

But the coup de grâce, which truly signaled that Obama is out of good graces and the divorce is all but a done-deal... was the appearance on a recent Sunday morning news show of the 'father of the bride', former Vice President Dick Cheney, where he unequivocally accused President Obama of "making the nation less safe".

What? Did Dick Cheney really say that Obama cannot protect his new wife: the United States of America? Unheard of!

Now... these actions by the media are indeed unprecedented. But for Obama's own cousin, Vice President Dick Cheney, to come out during the 100-day honeymoon period to tell the nation and the world that Obama is making the country less safe... that is the remarkable! The marriage is officially on the rocks...

Rush vs Obama Is Irrelevant!

2009-03-08T17:39:00.000-07:00

How in the world has Rush Limbaugh versus President Obama become such a huge story in this nation? With America on the 'edge of the abyss' and so many major catastrophes threatening to take America out the back door, how is Rush challenging Obama to a debate even relevant?

For most voters in middle America, the petty and foolish 'jaw jacking' between the Obama White House and the Rush Limbaugh daily radio show... is both ridiculous and irrelevant in comparison to what is important in our lives and to our survival.

Most of us living in the nation's bread basket states don't have time for these tit-for-tat-school-boy-taunts and male pissing-matches any longer. Not when breaking news reports indicate:

South Korea and the US believe North Korea could be preparing to test-fire a long-range missile under the guise of a satellite launch. With tensions between the two Koreas extremely high, North Korea has warned that any attempt to shoot down a satellite it says it plans to launch will result in war.

That's WAR... Ladies and gentlemen!!!

And other distressing news such as:

600,000+ Americans lost their jobs last month. The job picture is becoming so bleak that nearly 700 people applied for a single job as a school janitor recently in Ohio. People are out of work and the numbers are growing daily!!

Hmmm... while Rush Limbaugh is laughing all the way to the bank?!?!!

And even more dire news that:

The U.S. stock market continues dropping like a rock. People are losing their shirts and their 401k values... their nest eggs are evaporating. The latest report that the Dow Jones is currently under 6700 points with no bottom in sight any time soon... is quite disturbing out here in America's heartland.

This is not fun or funny any longer, as Mr. Robert Gibbs jokingly said about the Rush-Obama-drama during a recent White House press briefing.

We need for the President and his staffers to ignore Rush Limbaugh and stop elevating him to the level of the prestige the office of the President represents.

We need President Obama to order Tim Geithner to cease with the procrastinating mumbo-jumbo... and present a comprehensive plan to the American people on how this Administration is going to get the U.S. economic bus out of the ditch. Remember...It's the ECONOMY STUPID...

Now is 'not' really a good time for this Administration to open up the polarizing stem cell research debate in this country... or crack open the pork versus no-pork can-of-worms as was demonstrated in Congress last week. Americans are broke, afraid, and hurting... and these hot-button issues will further inflame an already angry nation, causing further division and possible civil unrest.

Rush Limbaugh is a distraction! What we need are bi-partisan leaders who will make tough decisions and get this country back on track.

Partying At The White House Posing Problems for President

2009-03-02T09:30:00.000-08:00

If it were any other time in America's history, headlines such as: "Obama kicks up White House entertaining"... "President Hosts Super Bowl Party At White House"... "White House Party's ROCK!" would not be so offensive. But with President Obama constantly reminding the American people how dire the economic forecast is and will be for the next several years, and the stock market falling like a rock... and with people losing homes and jobs in record numbers each month–– and quite angry about it to boot... this may 'NOT' be the best time for hosting weekly parties at the White House.

While over 60% of Americans want this president to succeed... HE has to want to succeed as well. People believed President Obama when he asked John-Q-Public to rethink the gas-guzzling SUVs they drive, and to turn the thermostats in their homes down to 70 degrees as part of a unified national sacrifice. Many Americans jumped on Obama's bandwagon when he lambasted President Bush as "clueless" for his answer to the financial crises by telling people to "go shopping".

Where is that Obama––the one who pledged to sacrifice his presidential perks along with the rest of us for purpose of country?

Across bloggersville, persons who supported Obama and those who did not, are voicing strong dislike and distrust because President Obama appears to be "fiddling while Rome is burning". These are difficult times and, unless the Obamas are paying for these parties out of his monthly salary or his 'own' money... the American people want the President to stop with these parties already! He looks hypocritical. The message he is telegraphing to voters is: 'do as I say... not as I do'.

When the economy gets better and money is flowing back in breadbasket America so that tax payers can also party like it's 1999...then Obama too can party with Stevie Wonder and Earth, Wind and Fire all night long if he wants. But until then...continuing to party at the White House will pose real problems for the President!

California Has Racists? Duh....

2009-02-26T07:05:00.001-08:00

The mayor of Los Alamitos, Dean Grose, recently sent out an e-mail showing an Obama White House lawn planted with watermelons. This elected official included a title: “No Easter egg hunt this year.”

So... this is a mayor in California... not Mississippi, Tennessee, Alabama?!? BUT, CALIFORNIA! Shame on him. This was both insulting and disgusting... THESE ANTICS MUST STOP IF AMERICA HOPES TO MOVE FORWARD. Vivian Berryhill 2/25/09

Jindal vs Obama: Style Over Substance?

2009-02-24T16:12:00.000-08:00

In 2004, an unknown man-of-color from the south side of Chicago, Illinois bolted onto the national scene with an electrifying speech that mesmerized the American public and catapulted him to the White House. His oratory skills, by far, are second to none... however many in America are now coming to the realization that his much-talk is 'high on style', but often lacks real substance and is frequently full of equivocation, evasion, and nuanced-beating-about-the-bush.

However, President Obama's first–– and much ballyhooed Joint Sessions of Congress mini-State of the Union Address, while fluff-infested, did lay out quite a few more specifics to his stimulus bill... and offered a few more tidbits to his vision of getting this nation back to prosperity.

Now, juxtapose to another unknown man-of-color from the swamps of Louisiana, who history may very well record made his minuscule imprint on the national stage with a no-nonsense, heart-felt chat to the American people immediately following the President's quasi-State of the Union Address. What a difference, as his speech was high on substance... but indeed lacked in style.

Governor Bobby Jindal attempted in a flat, but respectful manner, to take Obama to the woodshed by back-handing the points the President presented during his hour-long address. The Louisiana governor's rebuttal failed to offer credible arguments or facts that would bat down Obama's convincing case to the American people that he, and his new policy team, have a plan.

Parroting GOP talking points when the national spotlight was on him was not effective, and did not gain Jindal any memorable place in speech-making history.

These two men with two different styles, could face off in 2012 to vie for the top Executive job in the land. One represents the first African American and the other the first Indian American elected to their respective positions. One man a big-government, spending liberal... the other a tax-cutting, fiscal conservative present two starkly opposing views on how they would govern and lead this nation in the upcoming years.

While Jindal is currently no match for Obama, if the stimulus bill does not jump-start this country... style and great words will be 'moot', as Obama will be a footnote in history by 2012, and Jindal could be what the fickle American public will be looking for by then.

UPDATE: Stimulus Racism...

2009-02-18T09:35:00.000-08:00

THIS CARTOON IS NOT FUNNY... IT IS OVERTLY, IN-YOUR-FACE RACIST!!!

These kinds of antics must stop immediately as they are harmful to race relations in this nation.

President Obama Signs $780+ Stimulus Bill

2009-02-17T16:14:00.000-08:00

As millions of Americans are holding on for dear life, today President Barack Obama signed into law the largest stimulus bill in history.

The question on most people's lips: What will be the outcome of this mass amount of spending and tax credits? Unfortunately, we are treading in unchartered territory, as no one 'really' knows. But right now, people in breadbasket America who are on the fringe of losing homes, jobs, health insurance and 401k values are hoping-against-HOPE that Obama really has a plan and is not gambling or crap-shooting the future of America.

Using the Dow Jones' 300 point drop as a gauge–– especially on the day President Obama signed the paperwork making his plan a reality––offers no reassurance to an already nervous public. While many truly want this neophyte President to succeed... there is nothing in his background to indicate he has ever faced or mastered any financial crisis, and can therefore pull from such experience. If only he had served as a CEO or a company, Governor of a State, Mayor of a town, small business owner, or even manager of a Wendy's or McDonalds, where he would have had to make a payroll or balance a budget... maybe folks-on-the-farm would not be so trepidatious and jittery at this juncture in history as demonstrated by the tanking of the markets since the election in November.

"Having had a long weekend to digest the political dealings in Washington, market participants aren't feeling any better about things than they did before. The bearish disposition is an issue of confidence - or lack thereof -", said Patrick O'Hare, an analyst at Briefing.com.

Well, the ink is dry now. We can only wait and see... Let's all hold good thoughts that Obama's stimulus plan works. A lot is riding on his big gamble!

Cloud of Suspicion Surrounds Michael Steele

2009-02-09T13:35:00.000-08:00

The newly elected chairman of the Republican National Committee, former Maryland Lt. Governor Michael Steele, has a lot of explaining to do regarding charges he misappropriated funds from his 2006 Senate campaign. According to Alan Fabian, the former finance chairman for Steele's unsuccessful Senate bid, Steele knowingly and fraudulently funneled approximately $40,000 to his sister's defunct catering and web services.

Fabian is also alleging that Steele, the first African American ever elected to head either major national political party in this country, paid a law firm $75,000 from his state campaign to do some work that was never performed.

But during a recent appearance on ABC's "This Week," Mr. Steele pushed back hard on these claims by Fabian, by challenging anyone who would dare believe the word of a "convicted felon who is trying to get a reduced sentence." Steele went on to say:

"Those allegations were leveled by a convicted felon who was trying to get a reduced sentence on his conviction. The reality of it is that the US attorney, as well as the judge, looked at what he presented and it did not apply. He said there was no credibility to it. The Washington Post ought to be ashamed of itself for getting out in front of something without all of the facts."

Steele, who has advocated the need for higher ethical standards in Washington, DC politics, recently cleaned house at the RNC... getting rid of 100 staffers in his quest to prove he will bring a new vision to the Committee starting with a new crop of workers. With his credibility now being challenged, Steele may need to do more that discredit Fabian the messenger, and provide undeniable proof to the media relative to the law firm billing charges and also show that his sister did... or did not have a catering service that he employed and paid money to during that time. This will help clean up his name. Short of that, a cloud of suspicion will remain over him until this is resolved.

.

Is Obama's Stimulus Plan Losing Steam?

2009-02-04T13:18:00.000-08:00

President Barack Obama's legacy, and possible second term presidency, may well be tied to the $1 trillion dollar stimulus package that––while passing the House of Representatives without one single Republican vote––seems to be in trouble.

The latest Rasmussen poll numbers reflects public support continues falling each day the stimulus plan receives further scrutiny in the bloggersville and by those in the media. According to pollsters only 37% of the American public now support the plan. This is not a good sign, as this is the first major economic leadership test of a president who is supposedly still in his 100-day honeymoon stage.

A major signal that Obama's economic plan may be headed to the trash heap, is that his arch-rival during the 2008 Presidential contest, Senator John McCain, came out to vehemently oppose the bill... going as far as to e-mail his supporters and urging them to oppose the plan as well.

Another ominous indicator is the recent rumblings by members of his own party. Democratic Senators are conceding publicly that the votes needed to pass this plan–– even though they have a distinct numbers advantage over the Republicans––just are not there!

The president is astutely aware of how much his political future depends on this package. Consequently, he is spending a vast amount of the valuable political capital he recently attained on assuring passage of this bill. Over the past few days he has made the rounds on every major television network repeating the dire consequences if his bill is not passed by the Senate. Obama sent a warning to Congress that failure to act on his $900-billion stimulus package will “turn a crisis into a catastrophe and guarantee a longer recession.”

President Obama's plan may be losing steam, but for now he appears to be going down swinging!

Okay, Obama: Bin Laden, Chavez, Zawahari... And Now Ahmadinejad

2009-01-29T13:59:00.000-08:00

For the past few months, some radical rascal or another: Bin Laden, Chavez, Zawahari... and now Ahmadinejad, has been publicly threatening or trying to provoke this newly installed leader of the free world, President Obama, with challenging words. But so far, the 44th President has remained cool, calm and collected. However, this most recent verbal affront by Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad toward Obama is getting close to stepping over the line.

Without calling President Barack Obama by name, Ahmadinejad called for an "apology" to Iran by our new American leader:

"Those who say they want to make change, this is the change they should make: they should apologize to the Iranian nation and try to make up for their dark background and the crimes they have committed against the Iranian nation," Ahmadinejad said.

Now come on! President Ahmadinejad never fronted President George Bush off like that in the international media. For the Iranian leader to attempt to reduce the stature of President Obama by raising that apology issue on the global stage should rankle the feathers of every American, whether they support or like Obama... or not.

In a big symbolic gesture by President Obama, it is reported that he, and his team, are in the process of reaching out via drafting a letter to the Iranian leadership, in an effort to open a channel for dialogue. But that letter shouldn't include an "apology". No way!

If this saber rattling continues, pretty soon President Barack Obama is going to have to come out and display his "South-Side-Chicago-hood-rat-side" to these international despots, and let them know 'he doesn't play it'! All of these men of color (Bin Laden, Chavez, Zawahari and Ahmadinejad) know what it is like to be a brother in the spotlight. So each of them need to back-off and show Obama some r-e-s-p-e-c-t... and give him time to scout out the lay of the land and form a strategy to move forward toward peace. This continual public "dissing campaign" of America's president is counter-productive and is not helpful.

Now, a year from now, if President Obama has demonstrated that he was not sincere about 'changing' America's position in the world, and restoring America's image across the globe... then, okay... these men of color can, and should, chide him or take him to task. But to front Obama off at this juncture in his presidential tenure is not the way to treat a brother!

Berryhill Salutes Obama: 44th President of the U.S.A.

2009-01-17T15:35:00.001-08:00

President Barack H. Obama, Jr., being sworn in as the 44th President of the United States of America, ushers in a new and unprecedented era for this country. Duly elected as the first man of African-American descent to ascend to the most powerful office in the land, President Obama stands on the shoulders of many Black pioneers who died in the struggle in anticipation of a day such as this.

Growing up in the racially charged 70's, where the mantras of the day were: "Say It Loud, I'm Black and I'm Proud"; "To Be Young, Gifted and Black", "Don't Want Nobody to Give Me Nothin'... Open the Door and I'll Get it Myself"... it is with deep pride that I, the great-great-great-graddaughter of slaves can see someone, who looks like me, actually in charge of the city where a 'free black man' named Benjamin Banneker, was instrumental in the construction of the city.

President Obama's success is essential! If he succeeds, all Americans, rather they identify as Republican, Democrat, Independent, or Green Party, can take pride in a unified nation. If Obama is allowed to fulfill his term in this office, there is a great possibility that he can help bridge the mistrust and misconceptions held by many in both the Black and white communities against each other.

And, African-Americans, while proud and unashamedly claiming ownership of Obama, Michelle, and his two beautiful daughters, must remember that he does not belong to the Black race only. He will be the president of all Americans, and in his quest to be successful, he knows he must govern accordingly. But he will need our help!

Help him by praying for him every day that he will surround himself with God-fearing advisors. Take time to find out the fax numbers and email addresses of your local Congressmen and Senators that you can show support of legislation that empowers your neighborhood, and let your voice be heard on policies that will not benefit you or your community. And lastly, we must carry ourselves as African Kings and Queens, committed to fulfilling the dream of Rev. Martin Luther King... and be steadfast in our goal of becoming self-reliant, disciplined and financially independent... just as our ancestors before us taught us.

This is a new day, and together, with our sleeves rolled up and head held high, we can make this country great again.

God Bless President Obama... and God Bless the U.S.A!

The Obamas Open the Way For African Americans

2009-01-12T12:19:00.000-08:00

by Princella Smith - Guest blogger; Washington, DC

Bill Cosby portrayed it: an upper middle-class, successfully educated African-American family. Dr. King dreamed of it, spoke of it, and gave his life for it. Slaves and then civil rights activists were jailed, beaten, and died for it: for the day when not only would a person of color be allowed into the White House but would run the White House.

It’s been a long time coming, but the American minority has officially reached the highest American ceiling, and that’s a testament to the maturity of this country.

I say this as someone who disagrees with Obama ideologically. I believe in the notion that less is more when it comes to government. I believe in individual responsibility and ownership. I believe that more funding to schools will not replace the need for school reform and teacher accountability. I believe that people should be allowed to invest in their own individual social security accounts and that any extra money in the account can be left to family members at death. I believe in a comprehensive energy plan that includes drilling for American resources while developing alternative forms of energy. My official trek into politics was jumpstarted by Republicans. I have held true to most of party’s ideals, BUT I AM American enough to see the patriotism in celebrating the history of this moment.

An Obama Presidency doesn’t mean that bigotry is over. For as long as there is diversity in America, there will be prejudice, racism, and ignorance. No longer do we have to wonder: “Is it really true that I can be anything I want to be?” My grandmother says that her first reaction to seeing “President-Elect Barack Obama” on the screen was to remember about 37 years ago when my father was 11 years old. She was waiting with him for my grandfather to arrive from work, and as my grandfather approached them, he had to stop, stoop over, and wipe the dirt from a white man’s shoes before he got into his car. My grandmother took her hand, and turned my then 11 year-old father’s head away so that he would not see his father have to wipe dirt from the white man’s shoes. “That’s what I thought about when I saw ‘President-Elect Barack Obama’ on my television screen,” she said.

The difference today is that African Americans, now more than ever, must follow through on King’s dream. Before Obama’s election, to many, those words were empty because there had been no evidence that America would take a step as huge as electing a person of color to the most powerful position in the entire world, but they did.

And so, my dear African-American brothers and sisters: for each one of you who live in poverty; for each one of you who are surrounded on a vast island of depraved neighborhoods and less than adequate school systems; for each one of you who look for miles but cannot see an example of an educated successful African-American couple with a stable family, just turn on your television, pick up a book, read a magazine, check a newspaper or click on the internet, and realize that THERE IS AN AFRICAN-AMERICAN PRESIDENT with an African-American wife... occupying the White House.

You don’t have to pattern your life after President-elect and Michelle Obama’s, but Obama’s election is an example of what you can have in life if you work hard, discover your personal abilities, and capitalize on them. Men... pull your pants up, tuck your shirts in, and walk upright. Exercise restraint and sexual responsibility. Do not support entertainment that degrades you, your culture, or black women. Cease use of the “N” word. Saying that it “empowers” you is ignorant and shows your lack of knowledge on the origin of the word’s usage.

No doubt, you will face discrimination in your lives. When people say the phrase: “Well now, they have no excuses”, I want to ask them: “So, you thought this entire time that when minorities—particularly African-Americans—have expressed frustration with discrimination that it was just whining??” Clearly, those people just don’t get it. However, Obama’s election should always serve as a testament to ALL Americans that no matter how much discrimination presents itself as a hurdle in the race of life, you can still get to the finish line in America. We live in a great country.

So, aim. Make your own waves, and aim at the highest goals. Surely one of them, you will achieve.

Princella Smith is a political activist. During the day, she is the Chief Advocate at American Solutions, a non-partisan political organization founded by former Speaker of the House, Newt Gingrich.

Majority Leader Declares: "I Don't Work For Barack Obama"

2009-01-07T07:12:00.000-08:00

Has Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev) officially declared his independence, as he noted for the record that he does not "work" for President-elect Barack Obama.

“I don't believe in the executive power trumping everything... I believe in our Constitution, three separate but equal branches of government.”

“If Obama steps over the bounds, I will tell him. I do not work for Barack Obama. I work with him,” Reid said in a recent interview with The Hill.

Now exactly what kind of signal is Senator Reid sending to the American voters, other Congressional representatives and to leaders around the globe?

While it is true that Barack Obama, in accepting the position as President of the United States, officially works for, and is "an-employee-of" the American people... the Senate Majority Leader's statements somewhat lessens the authority of the office, and reduces the authority of the office holder. And while his statements are an "unspoken reality" on Capitol Hill and among lawmakers in general... would he have ever made such comments about Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, William Clinton or even George W.?

Reid may have set a new precedence here, as these words telegraph to a wavering populace that his Majority Senate position is 'par' to that of Barack Obama's. Even if Senator Reid's position is that he-is-as powerful and is equal or on the same level as soon-to-be President Obama, to publicly declare it on the national and international stage is a first in American politics.

Reid, Rush, Burris and Obama... Who Wins This One?

2009-01-05T11:52:00.000-08:00

Seems as if Congressman Bobby Rush, and his coalition of respected African American Chicago clergy, have significantly raised the stakes in the head-to-head matchup with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. The pastors, outraged at the audacity of Reid to use his position as presider over the U.S. Senate to wield power in an effort to determine who can and cannot sit in the Senate seat vacated by President-elect Barack Obama, will not allow what appears a blantant throw-back to the Civil Rights struggles of the 60s.

Approximately 60-powerful Black ministers joined Rush in backing Senator-elect Roland Burris' appointment to the seat, in spite of threats by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to bar him from entering the Senate chambers. Without a doubt this brouhaha places the subject of "race" front and center in American politics... again, as an all-White Senate refuses to allow Burris––who would be the only Black person representing that august body––to serve.

Rush, a Chicago Democrat, called the U.S. Senate "the last bastion of plantation politics."

"We are just faced with a hard-headed room of people in the Senate who want to keep an African-American out of the Senate," Rush said at a public send-off for Burris at a local Chicago church recently.

President-elect Obama, who is at opposite position with the Black congressman, Black faith leaders and community, as he is in agreement with Senator Reid that Burris should not be allowed to take his former seat. Obama agrees that Burris is a qualified individual for the job, but because of the cloud currently shadowing Governor Rod Blagojevich, he appears to have sided with Reid on this fiasco. Obama, while campaigning as a post-racial candidate, many in the Black community feels he owes his ascension to the highest office in the land to the overwhelming support and turn-out of African Americans, including Burris, Rush and the ministers across the country.

Obama may find himself having to accept defeat on this one, and begin signaling immediately to Senator Reid, Congressman Rush and the Black community that Burris' appointment, while not ideal, is legal... consequently, he must be seated.

The President-elect can't afford to get mired in the Black versus White "race" ditch at this juncture, as he has too many other culture wars to mediate coming out of the gate: Jews versus the Islams in Gaza, Unions versus Wall Street, gays versus the Christian right... just to name a few.

What Lies Ahead In the New Year?

2008-12-30T14:18:00.000-08:00

When history books are written about the happenings during this time and place in the U.S., September 2008 will be recorded as when-America- officially-lost-its-world-standing... and its people officially lost their ever-loving minds!

Here is a list of the top 10 notables:
1. Gov. Blagojevich (shows unbelievable brazen defiance)
2. Gov. Sarah Palin (sacrificed own daughter for political gain)
3. Chip Saltsman (exposes himself as sophomoric GOP frat boy)
4. Bernie Madoff ('unrepentantly' rips off billions)
5. Cynthia McKinney (misguided missionary making waves with the Jews)
6. Caroline Kennedy (an empty pantsuit trying to walk in Hillary's shoes)
7. OJ Simpson (too stupid to know how to disappear from limelight)
8. Top 3 Auto Executives (displayed extreme avarice: flying high-on-hog to beg for money)
9. Al Franken (LOSER!!... even if he is eventually declared the winner)
10. The main stream media (no further comment needed)

Hopefully this cast of characters will fade into the woodwork, as we turn a new leaf. But we must admit... they have been great fodder for the past few months. Well, onward to 2009!

Vivian Berryhill's Christmas Greeting To All...

2008-12-24T05:53:00.000-08:00

May the memories and the joy of this season sustain you, and your families, throughout this upcoming year. And may you remember to share the peace and love you have embedded in your hearts this Christmas Day with neighbors, friends, and those less fortunate than you, each day of the New Year.

God bless you. And God, please bless America!

Vivian Berryhill
Soul Voice

Truth-teller Biden Is America's Last Hope

2008-12-21T20:08:00.000-08:00

You have to hand it to Vice-President elect Joe Biden, what comes into his head, indeed comes out of his mouth. And, when you think about it, that is not such a bad thing... because at least so far, he has demonstrated that whether we like it or not, he is 'not' going to yank the publics' chain. He is going to give whatever-the-news... straight and to our faces!

Such is the case regarding his recent comments about the dismal U.S. economy. In a recent ABC interview, Biden said:

“The economy is in much worse shape than we thought it was in. There is no short run other than keeping the economy from absolutely tanking. That’s the only short run.

The single most important thing we have to do as a new administration, to have - to be able to have impact on all of the other things we want to do, from foreign policy to domestic policy, is we’ve got to begin to stem this bleeding here and begin to stop the loss of jobs in the creation of jobs, said Biden to George Stephanopoulos."

Wow... Joe! That's what I call dousing the American public with a dose of ice-cold reality. Biden must be appreciated for being 'man' enough to tell what we here in the heartland of America already knew: "It's bad out here... and about to get worse!"

There is no misunderstanding or mistaking the meaning in this dire warning from Biden. It is quite clear: "Hold on to your hats boys and girls, as all of us (the use-to-be rich, the 'always-been' poor and what's left of the middle class) are now in the same boat: the TITANIC!"

Although Biden has been ridiculed for his gaffes over the years... but if the truth be told, Biden's real criticism is that he will tell the American people what is really going on. And the truth is especially crucial at this challenging time in our history, as the trusted pillars that have been the anchors holding this nation up: the mortgage companies, the auto industry, the insurance business, the banks, and job/employment security, are now crumbling before our eyes! And folks are afraid, and are looking to leaders such as Biden, to tell it like it is.

So, as America waits until after the Christmas holidays to see which shoe will drop next...we can only hope that Joe won't let the powers that be, and those in the news media who have lost all credibility with the American people, put a muzzle on him. We 'need' him more than ever to keep sharing the real deal with his fellow Americans, so we can be as informed as our elected officials are in Washington, DC, and govern our lives accordingly. Because of all the folks in the DC beltway who live to give us the political 'spin'... Joe Biden has never been one of them. Here's hoping he won't start now.

Don't Feed Garbage to the Public

2008-12-15T10:43:00.000-08:00

The messy details surrounding the Senate seat of President-elect Barack Obama, are beginning to resemble a 'Whitney Houston/Bobby Brown' reality television nightmare. And the sad part about this entire saga is: Americans love reality t.v. We have become a nation who relishes in the dirty, seamy lives of others... especially the rich, famous, and VIPs.

The "Hot Rod" Blagojevich scandal has all of the ingredients for prime-time sleeze t.v. The only difference is instead of a one-hour reality show, scheduled one day per week for the millions who enjoy viewing other people's garbage and trash... CNN, NBC, MSNBC, Fox News, et. al, will slow drip this spiel during their 24-hour news cycles, forever!

To use one of Obama's famous phrases––this Blagojevich drama truly is "a distraction". The president-elect needs to be able to present his economic and overall policy agenda for the nation, announce picks to his Administration, have a decent 'honeymoon' with the American public without having to waste valuable time and energy talking about "what-did-he-know-and-when-did-he-know-it"... or being bombarded during the critical first 100-day press conferences with questions about Chicago's culture of corruption, and pay-to-play politics.

U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald needs this time also to complete his investigation, interview others who may be involved... without the media talking heads polluting the airwaves with uncorroborated debate, uninformed opinions, and wild speculations on "who-did-what". For the past two years, the media has been derelict in their duty, and have failed the American public by not fully vetting our president-elect... so, the media should stay on the sidelines now, and let the legal course of action proceed.

Calling for Blagojevich's resignation, and the loud drumbeat to impeach is premature and only increases the drama. Staking out Rahm Emmanuel's house and harassing him in front of his children only serves to stoke the fire and bring more attention to this debacle.

What should have been a one-day story now has the potential to play on the American scene through the the first six months of next year... unless everyone–– bloggers included–– back off of this drama and don't feed garbage to the public!

Patrick Fitzgerald Goes For Illinois' Jugular Vein

2008-12-09T19:09:00.000-08:00

Chicago's corrupt political combine is bleeding profusely, and promises to taint or take down many powerful names before this is over.

In what some are calling just the 'tip' of this filthy corruption iceberg, Illinois Governor "Hot" Rod Blagojevich was led to political slaughter, in handcuffs, during the early morning hours on December 9th on charges of corruption. The most damaging accusations found in the 76-pg affidavit against Blagojevich was his blatant attempt to sell the Senate seat recently vacated by President-Elect Barack Obama. And, although the law deems one innocent until proven guilty, the Illinois Governor's own wire-tapped words demanding money for appointing a replacement to fill the vacancy left by Obama... will more than likely be his undoing.

The small world known as Chicago politics, has recently seen the conviction of Mr. Tony Rezko, a former fund-raiser for Governor Blagojevich, whose scheduled sentencing was reportedly delayed as he is allegedly cooperating with the feds to deliver a bigger fish. U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald, seems to be crossing names off of his pre-described filth list.

In addition to trying to profit from the Illinois Senate seat, according to excerpts from the affidavit:

"...the main charges focus, however, on events since October when the Government obtained information that Blagojevich and Fundraiser A, who is chairman of Friends of Blagojevich, were accelerating Blagojevichs allegedly corrupt fund-raising activities to accumulate as much money as possible this year before a new state ethics law would severely curtail Blagojevichs ability to raise money from individuals and entities that have existing contracts worth more than $50,000 with the State of Illinois. Agents learned that Blagojevich was seeking approximately $2.5 million in campaign contributions by the end of the year, principally from or through individuals or entities - many of which have received state contacts or appointments - identified on a list maintained by Friends of Blagojevich, which the FBI has obtained". [December 9, 2008]

Chicago politics, notoriously known for its pay-to-play schemes, and renown shake down antics, is a cesspool of slimy political hacks waiting to be exposed to the world... and hopefully the town cleaned up. It appears that Patrick Fitzgerald, who is going for Illinois' jugular vein, just bought himself reappointment in the Obama administration... at least for now.

To President-elect Barack Obama - From Citizen Berryhill

2008-12-04T04:52:00.000-08:00

Dear Mr. President-elect Obama,

With out a doubt, your history making ascension to the highest office in the land has brought, and continues to bring, unexplainable pride to millions of people of color, not just in America... but around the globe. People are rooting for you, as they want you to be a good President.

But on the other hand... there are also millions of others who do not like you, respect you, or want to see you confirmed as the 44th President of these United States. Please understand that for some in that category, it's personal. But there are many, who have not accepted your position, operating out of fear because there remain 'questions' about your life that have not been thoroughly answered.

I am writing this open letter to you today on behalf of both sides. Mr. President-elect, surely you know that there is a 'tempest in the teapot' brewing regarding the vault version of your birth certificate. And, only you, Sir, can bring closure to this issue.

For months now across bloggersville, and... now the issue is surfacing in main line media outlets as well, American citizens–– yes, the ones who voted for you... and the ones who did not–– are 'bewildered' that you feel the need to pay money (in the midst of a recession) to three major law firms to make sure that the American people, who you wish to serve, cannot have access to your birth records in Hawaii or your college transcripts. Speculation is running rampant that you received aid as a foreign student. So, instead of relishing in your victory, those who supported you are having to confront these allegations daily...without documentation or ammunition to counter the claims.

Americans believe you when you say you 'love this country'. However, to allow this birth certificate brouhaha to reach the Supreme Court on December 5, causes many to question your love for the country you want to lead. Why would you allow this issue to proceed to the Supreme Court, knowing the national scab has not fully healed from the Bush vs Gore election which was decided at the SCOTUS level? Unfortunately, Mr. President-elect, whichever decision is handed down by the Justices, will not make this issue go away. And, quite frankly, a Constitutional crisis may be imminent... which could further divide an already divided nation.

I know this birth certificate issue may seem trivial in the scheme of things: National Security briefings, world threats, picking a cabinet, an economic crisis looming large... but to many of our fellow Americans, 'nothing' is more important than the Constitution of the United States. Consequently, you Sir, are the only one who can bring closure to the issue at this juncture.

So, please Mr. Obama... for the sake of all the people who supported and voted for you... and, also to quiet (once, and for all) the skeptics, naysayers, and people who already deem your presidency 'illegitimate', do like Senator John McCain did, and present your birth certificate to the American people today.

Our prayer is that you will do the right thing, put an end to this nonsense... so America can come together and tackle the real issues that face this country.

God bless you. And, God bless America!

Vivian Berryhill, Citizen

What 'Trump' Card Does Hillary Hold Over Obama?

2008-12-01T21:18:00.000-08:00

Tongues are wagging from coast-to-coast as President-elect Barack Obama makes it official: Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton will serve as U.S. Secretary of State... for as long as she wants that job. Many of Obama's Clinton-hating supporters are seething with anger and feel his "Hope, Change" slogan––that so many believed in––were just 'mere words'.

How did Senator Clinton manage to pull off this 'plumb job' in the Obama Administration, is the question on many lips. This question is particularly troublesome when avid Obama supporters, like Senator John Kerry, Gov. Bill Richardson, and Dr. Susan Rice, were looked over, while 'arch-enemy' Hillary walks away with the second best job in the nation, and the most highly visible position in the world!

During the press conference announcement of his National Security team, Obama was confronted by one reporter with the following question... the one question that is being asked by 'any' and every anti-war supporter on the street:

"You talked about the importance just now of having different voices and robust debate within your administration. But, again, going back to the campaign, you were asked and talked about the qualifications of the -- your now -- your nominee for secretary of State, and you belittled her travels around the world, equating it to having teas with foreign leaders; and your new White House counsel said that her resume was grossly exaggerated when it came to foreign policy.

I'm wondering whether you could talk about the evolution of your views of her credentials since the spring." [Peter Baker, December 1, 2008]

And, while the newly elected Obama initially tried to make light of the reporter's question, it didn't take him long to realize that reporter Baker wasn't backing down. It was then that Obama tried to square-that-round-hole he dug for himself during the course of the brutal campaign against Clinton. But, conventional wisdom says not many folks are buying his nuanced, flip-flop explanation.

The customary honeymoon given most new presidents, may be shorter lived than usual for Mr. Obama. His base is really mad about the Clinton appointment in particular... and they don't appear to want give him a pass on this one, or to go away silently.

Oh well. Whatever 'trump' card Hillary is holding over Obama's head, must be a doozy. But, it won't be long before time brings it all to light!

Blacks From Across the Nation Are DC-Bound!

2008-11-25T09:52:00.000-08:00

by GUEST BLOGGER: cheri wells - Memphis, Tennessee

There has been lots of talk concerning the upcoming events surrounding the inauguration of the first African-American President of the United States: Barack Obama. Much like The Million Man March people are converging on Washington, DC in throngs . . . in droves . . . in buses . . . in SUVs . . . in cars . . . in trains . . . in planes. And, much like with The Million Man March, many of these people have no place to stay.

Political pundits question the judgment of Black pastors across the country, who are bringing bus-loads of parishioners, congregants, and people in the neighborhoods, to witness this historic and unprecedented event. Talking heads on various talk radio shows continue to pose those pesky, prevailing questions:

"Why on earth would people ride hours and days to attend an event, where they may or may not have tickets to planned activities? Where will all of these people sleep, as hotel rooms have sold out long ago? Are many of these presidential-history-seekers aware that they probably will not get close enough to see President elect Obama? Why are so many youth, the elderly, women with small children, and the likes, subjecting themselves to what is sure to be challenging circumstances in the nation's Capitol"?

The answer is simple: After more than four hundred years in this country, many African-Americans finally feel a part of the electoral process. Although Black people have dutifully participated in the election process over the years... even amid promises- albeit empty... that things would get better for Black people and their communities. But now, with the ascension of President-elect Barack Obama, many feel that finally the table has turned.

African-Americans now actually 'feel' a part... as many gladly sent in that $1, $5, or $50 contribution. Countless Blacks, who had never registered to vote... not only registered, but proudly stood in those long lines, in rural and urban America, to cast the 'one' vote that sent Obama over-the-top. Who can dispute that their one vote was 'NOT' the vote responsible for sending a Black man to the White House?

No... for some, watching this event on television will not suffice... that is too impersonal. It doesn’t matter about securing tickets to the high-priced inaugural balls, luncheons or other events. For many African-Americans, the pleasure of only being there is all that really matters.

Indeed, the pride being emoted in African-American homes, churches, and neigborhoods is infectious. People of African desent have a swagger in their walk, and are holding their heads up high... knowing that as a cohesive group, they pulled together... and with a collective vote, unity of purpose, and pooling together the little monies to give, African-Americans now know that they had a major hand in helping shape history.

Therefore, if riding a bus 24-hours, or walking five miles in unpleasant weather conditions for the 'opportunity' to see the first man-of-color sworn-in to the highest office in the land is the final leg of this journey... so be it. Blacks from across the nation are Washington, DC bound!

Obama Dissed By al-Qaeda #2 Zawahiri

2008-11-20T03:27:00.000-08:00

President elect Barack Obama hasn't even received the final electoral college votes to certify him as the official U.S. Commander-in-Chief before being globally dissed by al-Qaeda's number two leader, Ayman Zawahiri. In an audio message posted on militant websites across the world, Zawahiri, often referred to as the 'brains' behind the al-Qaeda organization, hurled the ultimate insult at Obama by referring to him as the equivalent of a 'house nigger'.

This was the first direct message from Osama bin Laden's spiritual mentor and mouthpiece since Obama put all terrorists, and those who mean to harm U.S. interests on notice, during his presidential acceptance speech on November 4th.

Zawahiri boldly criticized Obama for turning his back on his Islamic roots and for siding with the 'enemies' of Muslims and supporting Israel, according to the Telegraph.co.uk web news link. The Telegraph went on to report the Zawahiri message to Obama as follows:

"The [Zawahiri] tape features audio extracts from Malcolm X’s speech in Selma, Alabama, in 1965, in which he unfavourably compared the “house negro” — a docile slave ingratiating himself with his master — with the embittered “field negro” who laboured outdoors. Still images on the video that accompanied the audio message showed a picture of Malcolm X, an advocate of black power who was also a Muslim convert.

Zawahiri’s message, entitled “The departure of Bush and arrival of Obama”, warned Mr Obama of a “heavy legacy of failure” awaiting him in office. It also juxtaposed a portrait of Zawahiri wearing a white turban next to Mr. Obama praying at the Western Wall in Jerusalem during a pre-election visit to Israel.

He scolded Mr Obama for “choosing to be an enemy of Islam and Muslims”, saying that the Muslim “nation had bitterly received” the President-elect’s pledge of support to Israel.

"It is true about you and people like you ... what Malcolm X said about the house negros,” he said, naming Colin Powell, the former US secretary of state, and, Condoleezza Rice, the incumbent." Isambard Wilkinson, Nov. 20, 2008

Quick to defend Obama and the United States' honor, government spokesperson, Sean McCormack, of the state department condemned the “despicable” comments by saying:

“If anybody needed more of a contrast between what the West and the United States stand for, in terms of democracy and what these terrorists stand for, I don’t think you need to go any further than those comments.”

Obama has chosen 'not' to respond to this blatant taunt at this time. And... while his composed restraint is admirable, as a Black man who lived on Chicago's Southside for the past 20-years, Obama knows he can't let this verbal challenge to him––and all African-American people who support America and the war against terror––go unanswered too much longer. Just like he came out after Pastor Jeremiah Wright crossed the line and dissed him at the National Press Club earlier this year... Obama needs to recognize that Zawahiri's recent statements warrant the same level of indignation.

Now, as a world leader, it would not be expedient for Obama to flip-the-bird to Zawahiri and al-Qaeda, as he did Clinton and McCain when they insulted him on the campaign trail. But he is going to have to say something in response to this verbal affront... lest he, and America likewise... becomes the global 'whipping boys' for the next few years.

Obama's Birth Certificate Still Being Challenged?

2008-11-17T11:22:00.000-08:00

Conspiracy theorists and many people in bloggersville, continue to chase, promote, and waste valuable time and energy on the Obama 'birth certificate' story.

Quite frankly, it is hard to believe that there are people across this nation, still legally and otherwise, challenging the eligibility of President-elect Barack Obama. Not withstanding that his commemorative coins have already been minted and are being offered on television. And... that he has had the official welcome by President and Mrs. Bush to the White House last week. Also, and most importantly... he receives those sensitive 'intelligence' briefings, daily. In addition, Obama has received congratulatory letters from all the world leaders (including Ahmadinejad of Iran). So... why is it that people like Alan Keys, Phillip Berg, Andy Martin and others, can't just leave the birth certificate urban legend tale alone?

Think about it. Why would Obama risk his reputation and his family's embarrassment, to lead the 'financially strapped' nation––he claims to love–– through an expensive Constitutional challenge NIGHTMARE if he KNOWS he is 'not' eligible for POTUS? He has to be smarter than that.

Obama must have a Birth Certificate that is Constitutionally in order and undisputably shows his U.S. Citizenship. He is probably waiting to produce it at the right moment––presenting a big old 'gotcha' moment for all the naysayers.

Is there anybody in their right mind who thinks that this same Supreme Court, that many Americans feel unfairly handed President George W. Bush the White House in 2000, will be allowed to intervene in another election process, and take this historic victory from Obama, the blacks, the youth, the Africans in Africa, the Muslims across the world, and the elite whites (without mass pandemonium such as was witnessed by Obama's cousin Odinga in Kenya earlier this year)? Calling back an Obama presidency at this juncture just is not going to happen.

Okay... is Obama hiding something? Yes, it would appear so. Is what he's hiding significant enough to warrant disqualification from a job he has long aspired for? Please. No way! Does whatever it is that appears on the elusive Obama birth certificate pose a major embarrassment to Obama, blacks, Africans in the Motherland, his mama, and his family? You can probably take that to the bank!

But, at this stage in the political ball-game, there is too much national and international emotion and feelings attached to this Obama win to do anything about the birth certificate situation now. It would be easier to change the Constitution to accommodate a discrepancy in Obama's birth records at this point!

No... it is time to admit it. Obama has out strategized the white establishment and all the powers that be. Those who voted against him or who are determined to drag his eligibility through the court process for the next four years should just "Let it go"... and hope to have better strategies against him and his deft team in 2012.

Republican Brand In Tatters...

2008-11-12T08:24:00.000-08:00

The aftermath of a grueling 2008 election finds the Republican party in tatters... and teeter-tottering on the edge of the abyss. Not only did Republicans lose key House and Senate seats, but the thumping they received on November 4th, were voters soundly rejecting the broken brand of the Grand Old Party.

The expected finger pointing and blame-game antics are running amuck amongst the party rank and file. Unfortunately, there is very 'little' time for such futile Monday morning quarterback exercises, as the 2010 mid-term elections are literally 'around the corner'. Realizing that reality... the Republican VIPs and party leaders are busy holding meetings across this nation in an effort to re-tool or reinvent their brand... and find the new face of the party. Voters in this election cycle seemed to overwhelmingly repudiate the image of the older White-gray-haired-men's club that the Republican party continues to promote... and are demanding more diversity.

To that end, former Maryland Lt. Governor Michael Steele, an African American, is being batted around as the potential RNC Chairman. Other names being considered include Vice Presidential nominee and Alaska Governor, Sarah Palin, who proved to be quite a fund-raising, base galvanizing force, and also Mrs. Renee Amoore, Pennsylvania State Deputy Chair, a powerful African American woman.

According to Mrs. Amoore, in order for the Republican party to move forward and reconnect with the American people, it first has some deep soul-searching to do, and will need to begin the process by addressing the following questions:

"Who is the real Republican party? Where are we now? Where do go from here and how do we get there? [Renee Amoore, Nov. 12, 2008]

That President-elect Barack Obama and the Democrats were able to syphon off a sizeable number of Evangelical electorates, and quite a large block of the Hispanic/Latino voters during this historic race, is an indication the Republican's message has been muted and is no longer resonating with those groups that have long made up the party's base.

These eye-opening losses which occurred this year should open the door for new party leaders such as Governors Jindal of Louisiana and Sarah Palin, and Jewish American Eric Cantor, a Congressman from Virginia, emerging to the forefront to help shape the party's agenda for the future. If not... then it will be a long drought before Republicans can see any meaningful change in the grim picture being presented today.

The people have spoken. And, it would be wise for those in Red State America to adhere to GOP presidential nominee John McCain's words, as he clearly and appropriately explained this year's massacre during a recent visit to the Jay Leno Show:

"...our party has a lot of work to do. We just got back from the woodshed". [John McCain, Nov 11, 2008]

Expectations For President-elect Obama May Be Unrealistic

2008-11-07T19:09:00.000-08:00

President-elect Barack Obama addressed the nation by holding his first news conference. And by no means was he shy in conveying the bleak economic situation the United States finds herself in. According to the recently elected, but not-yet-certified 44th U.S. President:

"The country is facing the greatest economic challenge of our lifetime and we're going to have to act swiftly to resolve it. We need a rescue plan for the middle class that invests in immediate efforts to create jobs and provides relief to families that are watching their paychecks shrink and their life savings disappear."

By all indications, Obama and his democratically controlled Congress, will have a very narrow window of opportunity available to them to fix this global financial crisis. Probably more than any other president-elect in history, the expectations are extremely, and possibly unrealistically high for him to do something.

Expressing the urgency of the situation, Mr. William Galston, a former White House domestic policy assistant in President Clinton's first term said:

"We're in a race against time to prevent a global financial meltdown, and I think everybody knows it."

Well... maybe everybody in the Washington, DC beltway knows it... but is that message really coming across clearly to the "I-want-my-money... and-I-want-it-now" populace? And, in spite of Obama telegraphing during his acceptance speech, and again during the press conference that he is not yet the president, and when he becomes president, the process to get out-of-this-mess will be slow and painful... the hurting masses who voted for him, aren't hearing him, and many are looking to him to turn the economy around, pronto!

Look for him to name his Treasury Secretary post-haste. That may give him a little breathing room... but not much.

The 44th President of the United States: Barack H. Obama

2008-11-04T18:04:00.001-08:00

History has been made in the election of the 44th President of the United States of America: Barack Hussein Obama, a Black man. This fete is especially noteworthy as it was in 1865 that slavery officially ended in this nation. And now, 143 years later, an African American man will take the reins as the leader of the most powerful country in the free world.

Regardless of political persuasions, Republican or Democrat, the night of November 4, 2008 ushers in a new era of pride for people of color everywhere. Black Americans can stand tall, head held high, because once and for all the door to equality has been kicked opened, allowing Black men, women, boys and girls to take their rightful place at the table of prosperity and recognition.

Around the world, the symbolism of an Obama-win is meaningful and will be viewed for years to come as most significant. Without a doubt, an Obama presidency finally elevates brown men from all the nations in South America, throughout the mid-East, and within the rich continent of Africa, to their rightful places of power and respect––par with their European brothers and sisters.

President Obama’s message of change will now be actualized.

As he now moves toward the monumental job of governing and delivering on his campaign promises… particularly ending the unpopular war in Iraq and bringing the troops home… the stakes for Obama are high and the preverbal honeymoon between him and the nation may be short-lived.

But, the nation has spoken… and the world is celebrating. Best wishes and congratulations to the new President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama!

Road to White House: Beware The Tortoise McCain

2008-10-31T13:49:00.000-07:00

Presidential nominee John McCain has more lives than the proverbial cat! Just under a week remains in this year's 2008 Presidential race. And... the pundits, pollsters, and political prognosticators once again in unison declared his race for the White House all but dead. But the American people seem to be defiantly saying "not so soon".

The Arizona Senator must be one of the luckiest men on the planet, or he has a finger in God's eye. From the day McCain's plane was shot down in Viet Nam and he was miraculously 'saved' to live another day, to his many bouts with skin cancer where he keeps bouncing back stronger... until the recent discovery of Joe "the plumber", who has rescued his flailing message and has allowed McCain to live a while longer... McCain seems to defy death--politically and naturally.

With no concise message, no real money, no Mitt Romney as Veep, and a media bent on destroying his chances to become the Commander-in-chief, arm-chair analysts are confounded that McCain is merely 4-12% down (depending on whichever poll) with four days remaining to V-day.

Who can forget back in August 2007, when McCain's campaign was first announced "Dead On Arrival". Underfunded and boasting of sleeping at the Holiday Inn Express to conserve needed cash, the sly-old-war-hero McCain, used pure grit and bested all of the Republican competitors in the primary to secure the title and nomination.

Facing an uncommitted and leery Republican base, who viewed McCain's allegiance to core GOP values and platforms as counterfeit–– to say the least, he was able to survive yet again. Pulling out of his "nine-lives-bag" once again, McCain picked an unlikely Vice Presidential candidate, Governor Sarah Palin who... regardless of what the main stream media says... has galvanized an uncommitted GOP base and rural, small town White Americans to his ticket.

Another test of his tenacity and sheer will-to-live was shown during the first debate in Mississippi. On the heels of suspending his campaign to go back to Washington and do his real 'day job' as Senator, naysayers scoffed at this move... all pronouncing him dead again. By the 2nd debate in Tennessee, the talk show critics had embalmed him and were proceeding to bury him once and for all. But "Mr.-I-Won't-Die-Til-I'm- Ready-McCain", escaped the political graveyard once more... and is making a credible last-ditch fight for the Oval Office.

Senator Obama and his camp have demonstrated they 'know' how to play on the field with the big boys. But by and large, the Democratic presidential hopeful has had pretty smooth sailing since clinching his party's nomination. He has the media advantage, more money than the recent bail-out package dollars given to Wall Street, and committed ground troops and Truth Squads with direct orders by Obama to "get in folks' faces" to get his message out. Obama better beware. This determined-to-be-President McCain just won't go away!

Four days is quite a long time in politics. Obama need not take the old-boy McCain for granted, as he has amassed a quiet ground game of seething PUMAs, and email-forwarding grassroot supporters who are disseminating the information on Obama that the media woefully failed to report. These millions of Independents, Evangelicals, Catholics, Reagan Democrats and surprisingly, some Black voters, are purposefully lying to pollsters that they will vote Obama.

McCain maybe old, but he didn't survive the Hanoi Hilton being a fool. Those same tactics he employed back then which allowed him to live another day, are being used by him and his silent majority today, to usher the tortoise McCain straight down Pennsylvania Avenue.

Palin Brags Of Being A 'Redneck'... Put A Sock In It!

2008-10-24T17:21:00.000-07:00

Well, goll -lee... whatz wrong with that-thare Sairah Pailin comin' out braggin' 'bout bein' a redneck and all? That statement caught many by surprise and wondering aloud: 'What exactly is she saying... and who was she telegraphing this declaration to'?

Now when critics pounded Governor Palin's parenting skills, brother-in-law trooper firing drama, mishandling of the Katie Couric interview, etc., Republicans circled the wagons and tried to put up a pretense-defense on her behalf. But, she may have stepped-over-the line during a recent campaign stop, when the feisty, maverick Governor veered off-message and made the following statement that continues to raise eyebrows of some moderates in the GOP:

"Someone called me a redneck woman once and you know what I said back? I said, ‘Why thank you.’” [Gov. Sarah Palin, October 22, 2008; Ohio]

The governor really has some 'splainin' to do regarding that bold comment. In some circles, the very term 'redneck' is considered offensive. It is no secret that Americans characterize 'rednecks' as being hicks, uneducated, yahoos, backward thinkers... and not particularly accepting or fond of Blacks and other minorities. Is that really the description the Republican Vice-Presidential nominee wants the electorates to have of her? The hockey mom Palin needs to explain further what about-being a 'redneck' she finds complimentary to the degree she would respond by saying "thank-you".

With less than two weeks remaining in this very divisive, polarizing, culture war-like political environment called the 2008 Presidential election... enquiring minds want to know was Palin's 'redneck' statement some type of 'code message' she was signaling to other "wanna-be" rednecks that she, too, is one of them? What exactly did she mean?

Her statement is particularly troubling, as over the past few months Senator McCain has been trying to tamp-down racial and ethnic slurs within this hard-fought contest. McCain recognizes that divisive rhetoric such as this have a potential to threaten major clashes between the races by, or on, election day... especially depending on this year's outcome.

Unfortunately, boastful comments by Palin of being proud to be a 'redneck' woman, goes against the McCain brand and message. She needs to put a sock in it!

13 Days Left: Andy Martin Tries To Take Down Obama

2008-10-22T14:11:00.000-07:00

The Chicago street brawl that has apparently been brewing between Senator Barack Obama and his chief nemesis, Andy Martin, for quite a few years... is no longer just a neighborhood gang war. This long running feud between these two has spilled over unto the national presidential politics level... with no good end in sight for either. Exactly what has the calm, mild mannered Obama done to cause Chicago attorney and founder of the 'Stop Obama Coalition' national movement, Andy Martin, to be so furious?

What is the root of anger that would direct Martin, author of "Obama: The Man Behind The Mask", to dispatch an investigative team of dirt diggers to Obama's hometown in Hawaii with only thirteen days remaining in the contest? And, moreover... what is it that Obama fears of this man's dirt digging findings that would cause him to suspend his campaign for 2-days and go to Hawaii? That seems odd, and raises questions in the minds of middle Americans.

Now... the main stream media may attribute Martin's actions to racism, since he is white... and Obama is part white, Arabian, and African. But, what if racism is not the underlying cause of this acrimonious behaviour? It's convenient for most people to want to criticize, dismiss or even be skeptical of Martin. Indeed, he has been labeled a 'crack pot' and a nut case by many in the media for his relentless pursuit to take-down and destroy Obama.

But on the heels of one of the most important elections of this generation, wouldn't it be fair for Americans to want to examine this hypothesis:

"Perhaps Martin knows something that the rest of the nation needs to know about this man who would be the leader of the free world before the November 4th election".

Are we Americans not broad enough in our thinking to say what if, in this one instance, Martin's motivations are not driven because of his need to settle an old personal Chicago-street score... but could he possibly be compelled to unearth information about a virtually unvetted candidate that may actually be for Obama's good... and the good of the nation in the long run?

Leave the Martins, Attorney Bergs, and others who it may appear, are out to uproot the Obama train... alone. If there is nothing there to find... they can't find anything. However... if there is something that has gone missing, it's better to know what's out there on the front end... than to find out on the back end, and risk prompting a Constitutional crisis that may split this fragmented nation in two.

There is an old adage that seems appropriate in this case. It says:

"If the dirt in your linen doesn't come out in the wash cycle, it will come out in the rinse cycle. But better the dirt comes out "before" hanging the laundry on the clothes line. Then all the world will see your nasty stains."

With 13-days left in this election process, anything is bound to happen!

Joe The Plumber Represents U.S.'s Silent Majority

2008-10-19T17:24:00.000-07:00

In case the main stream media has not noticed, their newest creation, "Joe the plumber", will NOT be going back to his place in the silent majority crowd anytime soon. In a short seven days, this single dad from Ohio has been pulverized and humiliated by the media, by Senator Obama's campaign surrogates, and many blog sites. His only crime: being in the wrong place (his front yard) at the wrong time (when presidential hopeful Obama stopped by)... and asking the wrong person (a relatively still unknown, Obama) the wrong question (how will Obama's tax plan "to spread the wealth around for everybody" affect him).

Instead of Obama's impromptu answer getting scrutiny... old "Joe the plumber" has been the recipient of some very viscious scrutiny. Hope Joe knows that his life, as an unassuming, "every-day-member" of the silent majority is over! And... depending on if his story continues to gain momentum, which could possibly sway the outcome of this 2008 Presidential election, " Joe the plumber" may well go down in the history books as "Joe the racist" who foiled an African American man's attempt to be President of the United States.

With two weeks out from voting day, the new variable in this race is: How many voters actually see themselves as regular Joes? Truth be told, Joe the plumber represents millions of Americans who are behind on their taxes, or who are jack-legging or boot-legging, without formal license, in their specific trade... but are decent people who are committed to working every day, trying to make a living just to stay afloat.

Take note. This uprising by the silent majority 'Joes' is becoming more evident each day, as many have decided to come out of the shadows and be heard. Look at the closing poll numbers, even though Obama is out spending McCain 5 to 1. And as recently noted, the number of angry Joes and Josephines who are attending McCain/Palin rallies in support of Joe the plumber, and obviously against the media, vis-à-vis Obama:

"Joe the Plumber resonates with the crowds is what his experience says about the media. Everybody here seems acutely aware of the once-over Wurzelbacher received from the press after his chance encounter with Obama was reported, first on Fox News, and then mentioned by McCain at last week’s presidential debate. Wurzelbacher found himself splashed across newspapers and cable shows, many of which reported that he didn’t have a plumber’s license, that he wasn’t a member of the plumbers’ union, that he had a lien against him for $1,182 in state taxes, and that he failed to comprehend what many commentators apparently felt was the indisputable fact that Barack Obama would lower his taxes, not raise them. As the people here in Woodbridge saw it, Joe was a guy who asked Barack Obama an inconvenient question — and for his troubles suddenly found himself under investigation by the media.

In the audience Saturday, there were plenty of people who were mad about it. There was real anger at this rally, but it wasn’t, as some erroneous press reports from other McCain rallies have suggested, aimed at Obama. It was aimed at the press." Byron York, National Review Online 10/19/08

Now will some of these undecideds jump on the old Joe the plumber bandwagon as their excuse NOT to vote for Obama? Probably so. But Obama has no one but himself to blame, as he was the one who went to Joe's house and stuck his foot in his mouth, advocating a "spreading the wealth around" philosophy to an electorate who really doesn't know who he is and what he stands for.

Say It Ain't So, Joe Plumber Won 3rd Debate

2008-10-15T21:01:00.000-07:00

Well.. say it ain't so. The winner of the third Presidential debate of 2008 was Joe Wurzelbacher, or "Joe the Plumber." This young Ohioan named Joe, whose recent exchange with Senator Obama regarding his tax options under an Obama administration, was thrust front and center and into the national spotlight. Obama's answer to old Joe's question about his taxes being increased caused quite a stir:

Obama said, "My attitude is that if the economy’s good for folks from the bottom up, it’s gonna be good for everybody. If you’ve got a plumbing business, you’re gonna be better off if you’re gonna be better off if you’ve got a whole bunch of customers who can afford to hire you, and right now everybody’s so pinched that business is bad for everybody and I think when you spread the wealth around, it’s good for everybody."

Seems as if old Joe's interaction with Obama has made him the 'face' of middle America. His plight actually focuses a huge laser beam on what ails this country, and who can be trusted to fix it.

How each candidate dealt with the subject of old Joe and the person of old Joe during this third and final debate, was quite telling and gave a vivid indication how each will govern if elected to serve the people.

First off, it was John McCain who initially made mention of old Joe... as a matter of fact, calling him out by his full name: Joe Wurzelbacher. McCain, in much detail, painted the picture for the listening audience of how Senator Obama's tax plan would hurt American dreams... such as Joes. And, in typical McCain style, he offered a direct and frontal approach, even going as far as to address old Joe square-faced to the television camera, assuring old Joe more money in his own pocket come January 2009, so he and his family could have increased opportunity to actualize the American dream.

Obama, on the other hand, addressed old Joe in a more colloquial manner... calling him "Joe the plumber"... and talking in more nuanced terms––coming off almost tepid in his response. Senator Obama lumped the dreams of old Joe with those of a hypothetical nurse, firefighter, teacher and others... into one big dream-pot. Obama then went on to speak, quite eloquently, of how his vision is for old Joe, and all the rest of those he mentioned, to be equal and be on equal footing as a result of his proposed spread the wealth around for everybody tax plan.

Two men... two very stark differences in approaches and positions. Who wins the election this year will more than likely boil down to how Americans see themselves in old Joe. Will voters continue to hold fast to the capitalist ideology: 'all my pie for me and mine'... or are Americans willing to move toward the Obama 'hope', 'change' paradigm: "I'll share my hard earned pie with others so that no one starves or goes without."

Facing the tough economic challenges that are sure on the horizon in this nation... are we ready to sacrifice-for-the-good-of-all, as that is what this election is all about in a nutshell. Everybody... think hard and long, then VOTE!

Obama/McCain: The Devil They Do Know vs The Devil They Don't Know

2008-10-12T14:55:00.000-07:00

You can take this to the bank: Elections are won or lost in back-rooms and living room discussions. Electorates may look at the slick, smooth political ads which are produced for television by the respective campaigns designed to sway opinion... but all in all, most people vote on candidates based on information they hear from church members; bowling team, card-playing, square-dance-going-partners; trusted drinking buddies, and folks they 'hang around with'.

If an effective 'whisper campaign' can catch hold in the public domain... it matters not how much money candidates spend on radio or television ads, most folks will believe the 'whisper campaign' information as gospel truth if it is uttered from the lips of someone they trust... before they will believe the contents of a McCain or Obama advertisement.

This is particularly true as the majority of the American public focuses attention on this year's Presidential election. In Small-town U.S.A. and suburban communities–– where elections are generally won/lost... people are just now talking, and the following theme is emerging as the conclusion of this 2008 U.S. Presidential election cycle is immenent: 'Obama is not electable because of too many unanswered questions about his past that he has been untruthful about or less than fully transparent about'.

In spite of his truth squad teams patrolling communities 'setting the record straight' about the junior Senator from Illinois, the chatter surrounding the electability of Obama–– from every day folks–– continues... and no amount of information on Obama's "fight the smears" website can change it.

This underlying thread of this year's 'whisper campaign' remains largely unnoticed and undetected by the main line media and to those useless daily poll trackers. It's no secret that folks in bread-basket American don't read, listen or believe-for-one-minute the data from pollsters or pundits, as it has been proven time and again that most voters 'intentionally lie' to them. To most Americans, these poll takers are outsiders... and it is none of their business how a voter is leaning.

The truth of the matter is that the following "hush-hush" undercurrent is running rampant about Obama which will cost him the election::

1. He's lying about being a Muslim; 2. he needs to come clean on how long and how deep in-bed he is with former terrorist William Ayres; 3. he's the Oak Tree from which the ACORN organization was hatched and allowed to fester; 4. he's a Manchurian candidate; 5. he is a by-product of Rev. Jeremiah Wright, regardless of his speech that he never heard any of those controversial sermons; 6. why won't he release his elongated birth certificate, or his Columbia college transcripts, etc., etc., etc."

Like it or not... these are real issues for regular folks. And, contrary to what some Democrats believe... many voters will not give up the last hope they have, which is the foundation of this great country... and 'sell-out' their vote on a pocketbook or an economic platform only! But rather... broke folks, who have been broke all their lives, and are used to being broke... and who know how to make it in lean times if they have to, will NOT vote for a leader with as many "iffy variables" hanging over their head as Senator Obama has right now.

So, the time for presidential nominee Obama to come clean, produce those essential documents that John Q. Public wants to see... and answer those 'whisper campaign' questions that linger in the minds of the American people... is now. If not...reminiscent of the elections of 2000 and 2004, voters will march in droves to the ballot box on November 4th, and pull that lever for John McCain: the devil they do know instead of the devil they don't know!

Debate #2: Obama Hold His Own to Win

2008-10-07T20:02:00.000-07:00

The second Presidential debate, which was held in Nashville, Tennessee, can be summed up in one word: B-O-R-I-N-G.

The 'town hall' format was supposed to be Republican nominee John McCain's strong suit. However... to the contrary, Democratic nominee Barack Obama, who was able to hold his own in this setting, did not commit any major gaffes, and thus would have to be declared the winner of this debate.

McCain, who desperately needed a game changing night, tossed the bad-mortgage-purchase idea into the public debate. Indeed that was a daring move on the Arizona Senator's part. Already the pundits are readily jumping on that comment:

"I thought Senator McCain started out very strong when he said we have to address this financial crisis by having a plan to buy up all of the bad mortgages in the country showed real compassion and empathy there..." George Stephanopoulos of ABC News (10/07/08)

Other than that gutsy declaration, McCain did not offer any further innovative ideas or policies, appearing hesitant on what measures he would put forth to invigorate and jump start this dismal economic climate. His argument that he "knows how to fix the economy", and that he has a "history of reaching across the aisle to work in a bi-partisan manner", did not offer enough passion or specifics that were necessary, at this juncture in history, to reassure a hurting and frightened nation that he has a real plan.

The memorable portion of this snooze-inducing debate was McCain's reference to billionaire Warren Buffet, an Obama supporter, as a possible Treasury Secretary in his administration. What a slap in the face to Governor Mitt Romney and other economic-guru supporters of his ticket and his presidential bid.

Obama, who also put forth Warren Buffet as his possible Treasury Secretary... presented the more credible position on domestic issues, seemed to have a better grasp of what he needed to say to "win"the hearts and grab the attention of the masses and those critical swing voters. Although it is still not clear how Obama plans to pay for his health care and education programs... especially when forecasters have predicted there will be very little money in the federal coffers as the U.S. is in full recession and meltdown mode. Obama deserves credit, as he was deft enough to stick to his stump speech and talking points... to survive another day.

Round two goes to Obama. Tally total: McCain 1 /Obama 1

Folksy Palin Wins Debate 'Dog Gawnnit'...

2008-10-03T03:51:00.000-07:00

In the only Vice Presidential debate between Vice Presidential candidates Joe Biden and Sarah Palin, the Republican nominee charmed her way to a grand slam victory. Repeatedly looking directly into the television camera... and in a folksy, "gee-gosh-I-am-just-like-all-of-you-red-blooded-Americans" style, Governor Palin was able to connect to voters in an undeniable way.

Having been the brunt of many media jokes and critiques the last few weeks, Palin was able to put to rest doubts of many naysayers as to whether or not she could hold her own in the national spotlight, and could operate a heart beat away from the presidency. Senator Biden, although more knowledgeable on foreign policy, came across far too angry and dated. He seem stuck in a Bush/Cheney era time warp.

Palin's eye winking, nose twitching, and 'gosh darn it' mannerisms added to her charisma and authenticity... and probably played well to those fence-sitting, 'gun toting, bible thumping', swing voters who will determine this year's election. Palin delivered several one-line zingers and attacked both Obama and Biden's record... all with that sly smile on her face. This disarming technique threw Biden off his nice-guy game plan, and helped to re-galvanized the Republican base, which had been in the doldrums of late.

As the only candidate in this race with any executive experience, Governor Palin boasted her managerial bona fides as she spoke of having to deal with State budgets, and working with legislators to get successful outcomes for the people under her leadership in Alaska. Indeed, she is no 'Einstein', but she is able to own the conversation and light up a room.

In comparison to the boring Obama/McCain debate in Mississippi last week, Biden/Palin's show down in St. Louie yielded more substantive information on the campaign's contrasts and positions... and by far was a much more spirited dialogue. A repeat performance would be a plus.

Maverick McCain's Future Hangs in Balance With Bailout Bill

2008-10-01T10:47:00.000-07:00

Republican Presidential nominee, John McCain, has staked his political brand on a reputation of being a fighter for the American people... both literally and figuratively. Throughout this entire 2008 Presidential campaign he has toured the nation... touting his maverick record. Not a day has passed that Americans have not heard McCain boasting to voters how he has, over the years in both the House and Senate, gone against leaders in his party... and how he is not afraid to buck the status quo.

Well, to many... that was yesterday. And yesterday's victories won't win today's wars! Without a doubt, today, October 1st is clock-reset-day. It's reckoning day for Senator McCain, as he faces the most crucial vote of his entire 25-year political career. Many hard working Americans who live in the heartland of this nation, fiscal conservatives who want to believe McCain is indeed one of them...along with many others who oppose this massive 700 billion dollar bailout, are waiting with bated breath to see––not how Obama or Biden will vote–– but how McCain will vote.

This one issue is indeed complicated and promises ominous repercussions for every household. Unfortunately, to 'bail out' or not "bail out" is further dividing an already shamefully divided nation. And folks don't know who to trust.

More and more tax payers are demonstrating a noticeable distrust of those who have been elected to represent them in Washington, D.C. Talk shows and popular blog sites are being overwhelmed with voices of Mr./Mrs. John Q. Public who are adamant that this bill not pass in its current state. Many see it as rewarding poor performance and aiding bad practices. All across the country, Congressional House leaders, who had the guts to stand up and vote down this bill are being heralded as champions.

People are looking for someone... anyone, who will show true leadership in this crisis, and not fold by co-signing this blank check to Paulson and Company, without regard for everyday Americans. Now... perhaps it may just be a matter of not having enough information passed along to Main Streeters to raise their comfort levels, or maybe more time is needed to allow the public to wrap their minds around giving away "1 TRILLION DOLLARS" of their hard-earned money, that may or may not fix the problem long-term. Whatever it is... there is an obvious disconnect between lawmakers and the regular folks that needs to be reconciled before a vote is taken.

While tonight's vote is regarded as the most important vote for the three U.S. Senators who grace this year's Presidential/Vice Presidential ticket... of the three, John McCain's political future weighs most heavily in the balance.

Debate: Obama Agrees With McCain Lots

2008-09-26T20:03:00.000-07:00

The much anticipated 2008 Presidential Debate has concluded, with Senator John McCain barely edging a victory over Senator Barack Obama on national security/foreign policy, while Obama was the clear victor on the economy.

Obama dominated the first hour, as he demonstrated a sincere passion for the plight of the poor and middle class, and articulated quite clearly, the policies he would put forth to aid suffering to those in America's heartland. Although his smirky facial expressions at times 'took away' from his attempt to appear "presidential", that he had no major blunders compensated for that.

McCain, on the other hand, scored big points and took Obama to school on foreign policy. His tendency to 'talk-down' to Obama may have cost him a few points as it cast him as 'snarky'.

The most telling point of the entire debate, and one sure to raise doubt in the minds of independents and swing voters, was the number of times Obama had to admit that he agreed with McCain on specific points/topics. What contrast was shown that would encourage an undecided voter to pick Obama over McCain if they agree on so many positions and their views run on the same track?

With two additional debates on the horizon between these presidential hopefuls, Americans will have ample opportunity to decide which of them is best to lead America and the free world.

MCCAIN PUTS CAMPAIGNING ASIDE, RETURNS TO DC TO TACKLE TRILLION DOLLAR BAIL OUT!!!!!

2008-09-24T12:35:00.000-07:00

Presidential nominee John McCain has put his presidential bid on hold and plans to return to Washington, DC to lead America through this financial meltdown. Calling on Senator Obama to join him and the rest of their legislative colleagues, to work together until the Wall Street/Main Street crisis is over.

A very somber McCain, who forewarned Congress back in 2006 of this impending financial debacle, has put the onus on every member of Congress who were set to recess on Friday and return to their respective cities, to now remain in Washington and actually work through this crisis for the good of the American public.

McCain addressed the American public with the following comments:

"Tomorrow morning I'll suspend my campaign and return to Washington. I have spoken to Senator Obama and informed him of my decision, I have asked him to join me.

I am calling on the president to convene a leadership meeting from both houses of Congress including Senator Obama and myself -- it is time for both parties to come together to solve this problem. We must meet until this crisis is resolved. I am directing my campaign to work with the Obama campaign and the commission on presidential debates to delay Friday night's scheduled debate on foreign policy in Mississippi. I am confident that before the markets open on Monday, we can achieve consensus on legislation that will stabilize our financial markets, protect taxpayers and homeowners and earn the confidence of the American people.

All we must do to achieve this is to temporarily set politics aside."

McCain warned that America was facing an historic crisis and Congress must pass legislation quickly. If we do not act every corner of our country will be impacted, we cannot allow this to happen," McCain said.

Biden/Clintons Killing Obama's Presidential Bid

2008-09-22T19:40:00.000-07:00

Presidential nominee Barack Obama really doesn't need enemies as long as he has team mates like Vice Presidential nominee, Joe Biden, and President Bill and Senator Hillary Clinton as his out front surrogates. Makes one question the superior 'judgement' that has been the lynch pin Obama has staked his claim for qualification to the White House on.

It seems that Axelrod/Obama's obvious decision to put all of the Black leaders/surrogates in the background and tuck them away in a closet, is proving not to have been a good judgement call after all. People in African American communities are looking... and wondering why Reverends Jackson, Sharpton, Congressman Maxine Waters, and civil rights icon John Lewis... and now even Michelle Obama have noticeably been hid away and kept in abeyance this historic election period. If the fear is that these prominent African Americans may make gaffes or "embarrass" Obama... causing him to lose the White vote... well the Biden/Clinton team are masterfully doing that job...hands down!

Make no mistake about it, Biden/Clinton team are killing Obama's presidential bid among Independents, Whites and women, in addition to successfully unmasking and proving faulty his 'excellent judgement' creds.

Every day that Biden remains on this ticket, and Bill Clinton openly campaigns and does television interviews, Obama loses. Take for instance this recent Biden gaffe:

Joe Biden said in an interview that he thought one of his campaign's own ads was "terrible" and hadn't known about it in advance.

Asked by CBS's Katie Couric about an ad Obama released earlier this month mocking John McCain for not being able to use a computer, Biden criticized the commercial and suggested it had been aired without his knowledge.

"I thought that was terrible by the way. I didn't know we did it and if I had anything to do with it, we would have never done it." Biden said.

And here is yet another Biden blunder, where he contradicts Obama's energy platform:

"Biden, during a recent encounter on an Ohio rope line said: He supports clean coal for China, but not for the United States.

"No coal plants here in America, he said. Build them, if they're going to build them, over there. Make them clean. We’re not supporting clean coal," he said of himself and Obama. But... they do, on paper, support clean coal.

Then there is Bill Cinton, who is out on the front line making the national television rounds overtly, and justifiably praising Presidential nominee McCain for his impeccable war record, and leadership down through the years as a maverick and an stalwart example of bipartisan statesmanship. In true Clintonesque fashion, he puts in context Hillary's position on not being selected Obama's Veep:

"Hillary (Clinton) never wanted to be vice president. "Not really, no... she didn't," Clinton said on "The View" when asked if Hillary really wanted to be VP. But she would have agreed to run as Barack Obama's ticketmate had Obama ever asked, Clinton said.

With fence sitters, and undecideds predicted to be the deciding factors in this year's race, McCain may only have to continually replay Biden/Clinton team words to the voting public for the next 40 days, and be a shoo-in come November 5th!

Americans Are Sick and Tired!

2008-09-20T07:43:00.000-07:00

Americans are sick and tired of the juvenile games being played by both Barack Obama and John McCain in this election cycle. Both candidates need to Stop talking about what the other guy is NOT doing or hasn't done... and tell the American people what he will do, what is his value add, and why we need to vote for him!

Americans are sick and tired of the 'race card' being played. Racism exists in this country, and it is not about to go away because Barack Obama jumped in the Presidential race. Everybody knows that Obama is part Black. Some people in this country will not vote for him PERIOD because of that fact, and some people in this country are voting for him ONLY because of that fact. Tossing racism accusations/charges around has gotten old and trite. Put a sock in it from now until November!

Americans are sick and tired of the main line media trying to influence this Presidential election. The more attempts by main stream media to ram Obama down the throats of the American people... the more votes he loses. Haven't they figured that out yet? The more these news anchors attack Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin and magnify the small, home-town, family saga "trooper-gate" story, and dig into her children's dirty drawers... but NOT dig further into and report on what influence did and does Frank Marshall Davis, William Ayres, Saul Alinsky and others have on Barack Obama, the more the voting public will write Obama off.

Americans are sick and tired of the whole McCain P.O.W. shtick. Give it a rest already. McCain is a hero. Anybody who does not know the sacrifice John McCain has made for this nation has been living in a cave for the past 18 months. Everyone knows it and everyone appreciates him for it. But right now, today, people in real time America want McCain to give them a 'good' reason why they need to vote for him as the next President of the United States, beyond the fact that he spent those years in the Hanoi Hilton.

Americans are sick and tired of this do-nothing Congress-- of which Obama/Biden and McCain have been an integral part of. It was under their watch (Obama/Biden and McCain) that this Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, mortgage meltdown, bank closures, Wall Street greed, out-of-control spending, lobbyist driven take-down of the American financial system has been allowed to fester. It doesn't matter if you have been in Congress one day or 100,000 days... Obama/Biden and McCain are equally to blame to those of us in middle America. So stop the finger pointing and give the voters your plan to get us out of this mess. (As of this blog entry, McCain has offered his plan... Obama called a press conference to announce that he was not prepared to announce his plan). Oh well.

And lastly... the first face-to-face debate between the two candidates will occur this week. Americans are sick and tired of hearing canned phrases and regurgitated "stump speeches" in place of real, authentic answers from your hearts. Leave the politico-speak for sound bites... and give the electorate honest, frank, forthright answers to the debate questions! Voters will be tuned in and listening.

So... President McCain or President Obama consider this your one and only job interview, and give us your best. Remember you work for us... we don't work for you!

Is O.J. Causing Obama To Tank?

2008-09-16T18:45:00.000-07:00

There seems to be a correlation between the ongoing robbery trial of O.J. Simpson, which is unfolding before our eyes... and the presidential trial of Democratic nominee Barack Obama. How ironic that everyday O.J.'s smirking face is on television... as he sits in that Las Vegas courtroom facing robbery, kidnapping, assault with a deadly weapon and coercion charges... Obama's poll numbers keep tanking. What??? New York and New Jersey are now in play!

Say what you will, but the 1995 O.J. Simpson murder trial was one of the most racially divisive events in the history of this nation. The lingering effects of that trial's verdict can still be felt, as racial tensions hover across America like a wet blanket.

In light of that reality... who scheduled this 'new' Simpson trial to run concurrent with the final 47-days of the Obama presidential campaign? Did no one think to postpone O.J.'s memorabilia 'thug' trial until after November––especially considering O.J. and Obama both are experiencing national ire for the perception of one (literally) and the other [figuratively] having killed-off a blond, talented white women... and a hero White male?

Not good timing!

Let's think about it. How many Whites remain chafed, angry, and will not ever vote for Obama because they feel he (with the help of the biased media) smugly and arrogantly gamed the system, and got away with robbing Hillary of her place in history... and now, has the audacity to set his sights on taking out America's war hero John McCain as well?

Then, how many of those same Whites, harbor subliminal anger, as they are reminded each day via television, of how another good-looking African American man, (who with the help of the late Johnny 'if it don't fit, you must acquit' Cochran) smugly and arrogantly gamed the system and got away with the murder of Nicole Simpson and Ron Goldman?

Those once media darlings, O.J. and Obama, although not by their own choosing, are on simultaneous tracks, as both are now on trial and are currently being judged by their peers. Will one walk and one win? Now, that would be utopia for both.

But I wouldn't bet the farm. There remains the chance that O.J. and Obama will each go down in defeat... big time! The jury is still out on both.

Obama's "Bubba" Hurdle

2008-09-14T18:56:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Presidential General Election is in full swing. For the remaining 52 days, all eyes now will focus on the Electoral College map... and specifically, the key battleground States.

It was just a bunch of 'wolf-talking' hooey the Obama campaign's lofty calculations of a 50-State strategy, and putting States in play that could shift the political landscape. No one really believed his unrealistic predictions of turning Red-States-to-Blue, and possible Red-States-Purple. As a matter of fact, this year's Electoral College map closely resembles the 2004 Bush vs Kerry match-up, with very little deviation by States.

No, just as in the past three election cycles, this race will boil down to the meat-and-potatoes States which are must-wins for any candidate wishing to secure the presidency, and they are: Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Florida. Now Obama's hurdle is that in three out of those 4 States he will go up against the notorious "Bubba" factor... a major determinant to whether he wins of loses.

In an effort to reach out to those bible clinging, gun-toting, small rural town Bubbas, the United Kingdom's Times Online reports:

The Obama team hopes the “Bubba factor”––Clinton’s appeal to white, working-class voters–– will revitalize its campaign and staunch defections to Sarah Palin, the Republican vice-presidential nominee. [Sept. 14, 2008]

Now the true coup de grâce for Obama's hemorrhaging campaign is if he can dump Senator Joe Biden as Vice President and replace him with Senator Hillary Clinton. There is absolutely no way Obama can (or will) carry those essential States without Hillary on the ticket. Remember, Hillary overwhelmingly won all four of them in the primaries. Yes, it is true that some of those Bubba's in Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania may or may not vote for a Black man... even with Clinton on the ticket. But, in light of the present Electoral College map match up... Obama may not have a choice... and will make the huge gamble of adding Hillary now, or go home a loser in six short weeks.

Keep those eyes on the map!

Senator McCain and the Republicans have got to be loving this.

Wrap Your Mind Around a Sarah Palin Vice Presidency

2008-09-11T16:56:00.000-07:00

All the talk of late is about the role of the U.S. Vice President. Is Biden ready... is Palin experienced enough? The question posed by Sarah Palin a while ago regarding her interest in the job, although flippant, it was telling, as she asked: "What does a Vice President really do"?

But first before examining the actual job responsibilities, let's juxtapose Governor Palin's readiness-to-be Vice President answer to Senator Joe Biden's recent statement on his Vice Presidential preparedness, as a possible indicator of who is... or is not set to serve:

"I have the confidence in that readiness and knowing that you can't blink, you have to be wired in a way of being so committed to the mission, the mission that we're on, reform of this country and victory in the war, you can't blink. So I didn't blink then even when asked to run as his running mate". Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin; Sept. 11, 2008

"Hillary Clinton is as qualified or more qualified than I am to be vice-president of the United States of America. Let's get that straight. She's a truly close personal friend...quite frankly, it might have been a better pick than me." Vice Presidential nominee Joe Biden; Sept. 10, 2008

Quite a contrast to say the least.

So, what does a Vice President do? Traditionally, the duties of the Vice President have been mostly 'ceremonial': attending funerals for world leaders, presiding over the House and Senate, and providing the tie-breaking vote if needed. But also to support the well-being, and the policies and ideas of the President of the U.S.A. Indeed, Dick Cheney has been the most hands on, powerful Vice President in the history of this nation. But his role for the past 8-years is more the exception... not the 'rule'.

Fellow country men who have served in the position of V.P. included Charles W. Fairbanks (Roosevelt); Alben W. Barkley (Truman); Albert Gore, Jr. (Clinton). And none of them had the responsibility or the expectation of overtly running anything in their V.P. capacity. And voters can rest assured, and sleep comfortably at night, knowing that Sarah Palin won't either.

The Veep job is the equivalent of being the second-string quarterback... the back-up... the "stand-by-just-in-case"! Although many are treating Palin as such, but, let's be clear: Sarah Palin is NOT running for President! She will only be the #2. And... quiet as it's kept, the odds of her ever having to step in and assume the role of President will not be any higher than has been in the past.

Yes, being a heartbeat away from President is important... but not nearly as crucial as many in they media purport it to be. With a cadre of advisors, Cabinet Secretaries, military consultants and other appointees, IF Palin should elevate to the role of President, she would not have absolute authority nor be able to override the will of the people.

Historic as her being elected Vice President would be for this country, she will basically be the proto-type... to help the American people wrap their minds around the prospect of a woman "one-day" being the Commander-in-chief. Now... while change sounds good, Americans won't be pushed into changing "too fast", too soon.

So... Sarah Palin, as V.P., will be in check, and a highly regarded figure-head, whose only claim-to-fame is access to the man with the power and the bully pulpit. No more, no less!

50+ days and counting...

McCain, Obama! You Call Yourselves World Leaders?

2008-09-09T12:49:00.000-07:00

The road to the White House is increasingly being littered with carcases of what we Americans once held sacred in this country: women, children and disabled people. Where did civil decency in this country go? What happened to America's value system which included a respect and a safe-zone for the innocent and those who can't fight back for themselves?

This 2008 Presidential election cycle will indeed go down in history as the nastiest, most vile and negative in American history. And... if we don't pull it back NOW, and left unchecked, this negative, acerbic, acidulous climate––which is being fueled on the Internet and by biased main stream media pundits–– will result in a volatile environment which could rent this country in two at the conclusion of this race.

Just recently, in what some on the right are calling a 'direct' swipe at pitbull lipstick-wearing Alaska Governor Sarah Palin... Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama verbalized this crass, less-than-presidential remark during a stop in Virginia:

"You can put lipstick on a pig. It's still a pig".

Name calling... insulting, degradative remarks... and crude public attacks are beneath the dignity of both of these national campaigners. And hurling attacks, especially on the wives and children of candidates has really gone too far, and has no place in decent, civil public discourse. Regardless of what one thinks about the views and positions of Obama or McCain or Palin or Biden... what public good does it serve to refer to Michelle Obama as the "N" word, Cindy McCain as the "B" word... or the most contemptible of all: circulating the most dastardly jokes about 5-month old Trig Palin, the Downs Syndrome baby of Governor Sarah Palin? What kind of nation are we becoming where ridicule of women, babies and children is acceptable and promoted?

It is the responsibility of the candidates to keep out of the gutter, and stay above the fray. Likewise, the voting public must exercise respect for themselves and this country, and stop circulating–– via emails––those unsubstantiated, uncorroborated and blantly false tales from unprofessional individuals on both sides.

Presidential candidates McCain and Obama need to remember that one of them will eventually have to govern and lead all Americans after this election is over. And trying to lead angry folks will make for a steep hill to climb. McCain, Obama... act like the world leaders you hope to be, and get back to debating issues!

Obama's Muslim Verbal Slip Hurts Him

2008-09-07T14:25:00.000-07:00

With 12-15% of the voting public still convinced that Barack Obama is, was, and always will be a Muslim, and the seventh anniversary of 911 terrorist attacks imminently looming, the combination may spell serious news for him. The Democratic presidential nominee made what will be chronicled in the annals of the 2008 election post-reviews as the biggest faux pas of his political career on Sunday September 7, 2008.

During an ABC News' interview with George Stephanopoulos, Obama made the following statement:

"Let's not play games. What I was suggesting -- you're absolutely right that John McCain has not talked about my Muslim faith".

Clearly oblivious of the misapplied words he uttered about 'his Muslim faith'... Obama kept on talking until host Stephanopoulos jumped in to try and help the Illinois Senator clean up the huge gaffe. Stephanopoulos' suggestion that he may have meant to say his "Christian faith" was too little, too late as the-cows-were-already-out-of-barn door and the news was running across bloggersville!

Gaffes such as this have been known to sink a many political campaigns. And the particularly detrimental aspect to that segment of the interview, and what will surely raise further questions and doubts regarding Obama's Christian profession, was the cavalier/''oh, yeah... right' manner in which Obama interchanged the words 'Christian faith' in place of "Muslim faith'–– as if mixing up the two faiths is no big deal. Obama should have been a bit more apologetic or appeared more shaken to the core at saying 'my Muslim faith' instead of 'my Christian faith' while addressing this prickly issue.

In this right-now/You tube age of information dissemination, clips from the Stephanopoulos/Obama exchange are all over the Internet, and will be fodder for 527s in the upcoming weeks.

Obama's poll numbers will be closely watched in the next few weeks to determine just how bad...or not, the damage.

McCain Accepts, Then Postures As A Statesman

2008-09-04T20:36:00.000-07:00

On the final night of the Republican National Convention, Senator John Sydney McCain stepped before the American people and accepted his party's nomination for President of the United States. Gone was the rabble-rouser, snide/wise cracker McCain, and a more subdued, conventional, boring, statesman McCain stood instead.

McCain began his remarks with gracious recognition of Senator Barack Obama's historic candidacy. It was obvious the crowd wasn't sure whether to clap or "boo", as McCain's apparent heart-felt words of kindness were in sharp contrast to the biting, mocking attacks hurled at the first man of color and Democratic nominee, by speakers who preceded McCain on the various nights. Again, the Arizona Senator's aim seemed to be to exhibit a presidential statesman-like demeanor. But make no mistake about it, he did however, inform the Obama camp and all those in the listening audience, that he 'fully' intended on winning the election in 60-days.

Although his speech was interrupted by protesters––who somehow managed to get in to the controlled environment–– the new statesman-acting McCain just took it in stride... demonstrating a maturity level not indicative of the former, short-tempered McCain.

Without tipping his hand to reveal what his actual policies or plans to lead this nation would include, McCain's message was directed more to Independents and swing voters. He told them he could be trusted, that he was a proud American hero, and Obama was not. He touted himself as a well-tooled, well-informed leader who understands the dire challenges we face, and is familiar with other world leaders and how to deal with them. He assured the voters in television land who were uncommitted and still sitting on the fence, that he, and only he, was ready and able to be America's Commander-in-Chief. And, Obama was not.

But, it was in the last five minutes of his speech where John 'Wayne' McCain finally showed that old passion reminiscent of the maverick McCain. With a rise in his voice and in the tenor of his presentation McCain offered a compelling and powerful ending. He urged–– no, he begged the American voters to: fight with him for what's right for the country... fight with him for justice for all... stand up and fight as Americans... Fight as Americans who never give up or quit!!!

Perhaps the pivot to this new statesman posture is just the start of the 'change' he promised to deliver if Americans send he and Palin to the White House.

The Clampets, The Palins... The Oil!

2008-09-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

"Where did she come from? Who is She? How did she get selected as Vice President on the Republican ticket," are the questions circulating from coast to coast about Alaska's two year governor, Sarah Palin. Even before her scheduled prime-time speech at the Republican National Convention, Palin has already galvanized the Evangelicals, rural voters from the Appalachian corridor, the Southerns, and lots of women, who like her can... "bring home the bacon, fry it up in the pan... but never let their husbands forget he's the Man!" .

Well, here is the answer to the Sarah Palin mystery in song: "The Clampets, The Palins... The Oil!" (sung to the tune of the long running hit show "The Beverly Hillbillies"):

Lemme tell you all a story 'bout a man named Todd,
Whose wife came out of no where...
And his family's sorta odd.
Indeed she is attractive,
And can sure 'dress-out' a moose...
But her value to this ticket
Is her State's bubbling crude.

Oil that is. Black gold. Alaskan tea!

Well the next thing you know,
Old Sarah's tapped for Veep,
With of all her family's "baggage"
She's still headed for DC
This young (granny Clampet),
With her guns, bible and all
Will help McCain "whup"
Barack Obama come this Fall.

2008 RNC CONVENTION MEETS JOHN MCCAIN

2008-09-02T19:21:00.000-07:00

"Who is this man and can we trust this man with the Presidency"?

That statement in a nutshell, frames the conversation for the remaining 60 days of this election contest. That question... posed by former Tennessee Senator and 2008 presidential candidate, Fred Thompson, about Senator John McCain, was the 'take away' expression of the night, and will resonate in the minds of the electorates all the way to the voting booth.

Using his deft oratory gift to tout McCain's military career and his 25+ years in the U.S. Senate, Thompson reminded Republicans, "Democrats and Women for McCain", and Independents that "Character, judgment and leadership in our president is most important in a President".

Challenging those in the media and the left leaning critics to stop the vicious attacks on Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin's children, particularly the 17-year old daughter who is pregnant with child, Thompson segued into his hardest hitting critique of Obama:

"...we need a President who doesn't think that the protection of the unborn or a newly born baby is above his pay grade. The man who will be that President is John McCain."

Hammering home McCain/Palin's theme: "Put country first"... Thompson shared with Americans that McCain can't salute the flag because he is unable to lift his arms above his head due to the torture he endured as a Prisoner Of War. He admonished voters to "do what is right for our country... and step up and stand up with John McCain".

Following that tough message delivered by Thompson was former Democratic Vice Presidential nominee Joe Lieberman. Although not as thunderous in his presentation, Lieberman quietly dismantled Obama's candidacy and looked straight into the eye of the camera to talk straight to the American people... solemnly asking they move beyond voting for Obama... but instead embrace the new McCain paradigm where "Country matters more than party".

"New" Hurricanes Affect Presidential Politics: Gustav and Jeremiah Wright

2008-08-31T17:00:00.000-07:00

While all eyes are focused on hurricane Gustav, slated to touch down in New Orleans and dramatically impact the Republican National Convention by raining on Senator John McCain and Governor Sarah Palin's coming out party... another hurricane, by the name of Jeremiah Wright, re-emerged the same day and could drown out the presidency of Senator Barack Obama.

Just when the Republicans had thought the horrible Katrina debacle was finally behind them, Hurricane Gustav, deemed the mother of all storms, charged toward the nation's coast... intent on reminding Americans of how badly President Bush and the GOP legislators dropped the ball. Talk about awful timing.

Off in another part of the country and with far less media attention, Hurricane Jeremiah Wright––the fiery former pastor of Trinity United Christian Church where Obama spent the past 20 years as a member––swept through Houston, Texas, and mentioned Obama in his sermon, causing tongues to wag and re-opening Pandora's box. Talk about awful timing!

Hoping to damp down any potential negative commentary that the catagory 3 Gustav could bring to McCain/Palin's trek to the White House, the GOP hierarchy wisely scaled back opening day activities of the much 'ballyhooed' convention. Not wanting to appear aloof or indifferent to the suffering of the people of Louisiana, McCain and his new V.P., quickly journeyed to Mississippi to demonstrate their commitment and avoid a similar disaster such as occurred three years ago.

Meanwhile, team Obama, still feeling the effects of Rev. Wright's Greatest Hits tapes that were played incessantly on the internet and main line news outlets... and have caused his poll numbers to steady decline since March, did not need Wright to pop back up in the news, or associate himself with Obama at this juncture of the campaign. Even though Obama has distanced himself from his former pastor, Hurricane Wright's glowing comments during a sermon at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church Houston, seems to give a 'quasi-endorsement' of Obama's candidacy and opens the flood gates for a repeat of the incendiary tapes that turned off many white voters. Said Wright of Obama:

"The Lord turned the ordinary into the extraordinary. Y'all just saw it this past week. It was on national television," Wright said to applause. "This ordinary boy just might be, come November, the 4th, this ordinary boy from a single parent home with a daddy from Kenya and a mama from Kansas. This ordinary boy just might be the first president in the history of the United States to have a black woman sleeping at 1600 Pennsylvania, legally."

How Obama's campaign reassures a 'skeptical' populace that he is really through with Wright, while thwarting the avalanche of negative publicity sure to follow these comments... remain to be seen.

In the meantime... two hurricanes, two campaigns... if not handled right, could disastrously affect the Presidential campaign of one of these camps, and determine who sits behind the presidential desk January '09.

Extra! Extra! McCain Taps Palin, Woos Clinton Women

2008-08-29T09:07:00.000-07:00

Presumptive presidential nominee, John McCain, may have hit pay dirt in his selection of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as his Vice President. Only a maverick as John McCain has the irrefutable reputation and chutzpah to pull off this historic feat: placing the 1st woman ever on the Republican party ticket.

This was an especially energizing and powerful move on the part of McCain, as it was actuated during the week celebrating the anniversary of Women's suffrage in this country. In addition, McCain muzzles any criticism of his choice from the Obama camp on her readiness to hold the highest office in the world, foreign policy experience, or her not being properly vetted or introduced to the American public.

Known as Sarah "Barracuda" Palin, this tough, no nonsense, 44-year old mother of 5 children (including a Downs Syndrome son less than six months old, and a son slated for imminent deployment to Iraq) puts the women's vote back in play... big time! A journalism major, with a minor in politics, she holds a degree from the University of Idaho. She is married (for 20 years) to a native Yup’ik Eskimo, named Todd, and brings a compelling, grassroots, small town story to the political discussion.

Coming out the starting gate giving a hat tip to the women whose shoulders she stands on and who paved the way for her getting the nod: former Vice Presidential candidate Geraldine Ferraro and Senator Hillary Clinton... was a brilliant political move by this self-declared 'hockey mom'. Ferraro immediately released this statement, in what could be viewed as a semi-endorsement of McCain/Palin choice:

"There are a lot of women who are disaffected by how Hillary was treated by the media, by how she was treated by the Obama campaign, by how she was treated by the Democratic National Committee — [Democratic party chairman] Howard Dean not speaking up when sexism raised its ugly head in the media. They’ll be looking to see what happens now".

Now the question is, can and will women––regardless of their party affiliation, and their position on Roe vs Wade––ban together to break through the glass ceiling that Clinton left 18 million cracks in this year? Polls show that 1 in 5 women who supported Hillary Clinton, are committed to voting for McCain in the Fall.

McCain, whose shocking, unexpected pick of Palin seems to have stumped the main line media and pundits. Now, as he begins to release names of potential Cabinet selections in a McCain administration, will bring a comfort level to some men who may be apprehensive to a woman being a 'heartbeat' away from the Oval Office.

This possible smart choice shows that the Arizona Senator is not afraid to challenge Democratic nominee Barack Obama for the much touted "change" mantle, while offering himself as the long time change agent in Washington.

Round 2 goes to McCain!

Obama Draws First Blood On McCain

2008-08-28T23:13:00.000-07:00

Officially accepting the mantle as standard bearer of the Democratic party, Senator Barack Obama made history on the final night of the 2008 Democratic Convention. As the first man-of-color to ever lead a major party in this country, Obama took great pains to lay out his definition of "change" before a crowd estimated at 75,000.

Throughout that audience at Invesco Stadium in Denver, grown men were seen with tears welling in their eyes and women openly demonstrated unashamed emotion as he spoke to them. And Obama... in classic Obama style, delivered the speech of his life on the anniversary of the famous "I Have A Dream" speech, which was given 45 years to the day, by the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Setting aside the lofty rhetoric of his days running against Hillary Clinton in the primaries, the 47-year old junior senator from Illinois outlined his plan for this country. He struck all the right chords and hit all the key points: education, health care, national security, the economy. Obama's acceptance speech not only served to answer his critics that he has a vision for America, but he drew first blood on his GOP opponent, John McCain, with this sure to be remembered in-your-face statement:

"The times are too serious, the stakes are too high for this same partisan playbook. So let us agree that patriotism has no party. I love this country, and so do you, and so does John McCain. The men and women who serve in our battlefields may be Democrats and Republicans and Independents, but they have fought together and bled together and some died together under the same proud flag. They have not served a Red America or a Blue America, they have served the United States of America.

So I’ve got news for you, John McCain. We all put our country first".

Indeed, Obama's carefully framed speech has taken the fight for the White House to a new level... saying to Senator McCain that he is ready to get down and dirty during this final leg of what is sure to be a major slug-fest for the highest office in the land... and where the last man standing gets the spoils!

First round goes to Obama.

[Note: vberryhill-soulvoice.blogspot.com will also post a daily blog of key events of the Republican National Convention throughout next week]

Bill Clinton, Joe Biden Frame the Argument For Obama's Readiness

2008-08-27T18:17:00.000-07:00

President Bill Clinton pushed all the right buttons, hit all the politically correct talking points, as he spoon-fed Republican 'red meat' to the Democratic faithful in Denver. Going way beyond the ten minutes alloted him, it was Clinton who finally set a theme for this Convention. In addition, he forcefully made a case for presumptive presidential nominee Barack Obama as being ready to be the Commander-in-Chief.

It was apparent––from the half-hearted claps that echoed through the Convention Hall as Clinton cheerled for Obama––that the division within the Democratic party was not elimanated during this week of rallying-round-the-flag-pole. His biggest applause came with his comment:

He [Obama] will work for an America with more partners and fewer adversaries. He will rebuild our frayed alliances and revitalize the international institutions which help to share the costs of the world’s problems and to leverage our power and influence. He will put us back in the forefront of the world’s fight to reduce nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons and to stop global warming", said the 42nd President of the United States.

Vice Presidential nominee Joe Biden came to the podium and used his oratory skills to humanize the Convention, often bringing tears to the eyes of many attendees as he gave recognition to this mom, wife, two sons, daughter, and his humble upbringing. Biden, a consummate speaker, only made one gaffe during his speech when he almost inserted the name of George [Bush] where he meant to say McCain.

Calling presumptive Republican nominee, John McCain, his friend and emphasizing him as a 'hero' who made a great sacrifice for this nation... Biden went on to attack his buddy–– encouraing the crowd to echo the McCain-bashing slogan of the evening: "Not change... more of the same". His case against McCain's judgment rang a bit hollow, in that Biden too voted for the war in Iraq, to fund the troops and many of the other national security measures that his pal McCain voted for as well.

The 65-year old Delaware Senator, capped off his acceptance speech by saying the world will trust America again if Barack Obama is elected President, and was later joined on stage by the Democratic nominee, to the hoopla of the crowd.

2008 DNC CONVENTION: HILLARY, THE NEW HARRIET

2008-08-26T20:20:00.000-07:00

Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton used her moment at the 2008 Democratic Convention to transpose herself into a modern day freedom fighter, Harriet Tubman. Hillary is now the new Harriet.

Speaking on the 88th anniversary of Women's right to vote, Clinton, whose biggest applause came with those code words to her supporters to "Never Give Up"... she left the door wide-open for her comeback in 2012. The shrewd politician that she is, Clinton rendered the bare minimum "rah-rah" vote-Obama-in- November. She mentioned Obama's name only ten times during her speech, and that mostly as an after thought–– tagging his name on at the end of a sentence where she championed her accomplishments, and basically challenged him to do what she has done.

An odd moment in Clinton's presentation was her reference to, and tepid assault on war hero, "friend" and "colleague" John McCain. It was unusual that she never once refuted her statements which are being used in the popular McCain 3am ads, that Senator Obama is not ready to be Commander-in-Chief. That she didn't pull that claim back... knowing that millions would be tuned in to hear her speech, leaves those words hanging in the air and offers further authenticity to the McCain campaign!

But, overall, this was one of the best speeches Hillary has delivered in her career. It will be remembered for what 'was' and what 'wasn't' said...

2008 DNC CONVENTION MICHELLE OBAMA

2008-08-25T20:14:00.000-07:00

Michelle Obama delivered a dynamic opening night speech... setting a clear, "we are family" tone for the 2008 Democratic Convention. The wife of presumptive presidential nominee, Barack Obama, did what she needed to do, which was to reintroduce herself and, in her own style and words, present who she is to the American public.

After having endured a rough and bumpy start in the media the past few months, Michelle Obama spoke of their family's down home roots, her deep love for her children, and her admiration and love for her husband during her fiery keynote address in Denver.

Giving a hat tip to Senator Hillary Clinton and making a forthright effort to appease the 18 million people who voted for her husband's chief rival, Mrs. Obama said:

"I stand here today at the crosscurrents of that history - knowing that my piece of the American Dream is a blessing hard won by those who came before me. People like Hillary Clinton, who put those 18 million cracks in the glass ceiling, so that our daughters - and sons - can dream a little bigger and aim a little higher."

All in all, Michelle Obama demonstrated that she is one tough sister-girl, who will not waver, become weak-in-the-knees or bow at crunch time!

According to Christine Warnke, a Washington, DC attorney and superdelegate to the convention:

"Michelle electrified this place. You could see on the faces of many of the women in the arena that she was connecting with them, as quite a few were moved to tears. Michelle was charismatic, yet graceful. And her overall presence was powerful. She came off extremely well. I think, if given the chance to serve as America's First Lady, she will work tirelessly to break that stained glass ceiling for minorities and for women".

2008 DNC CONVENTION UPDATE

2008-08-24T05:26:00.000-07:00

The suspense is over! Joseph Biden, Jr. has been tapped to round out the 2008 Democratic ticket. Presumptive presidential nominee, Barack Obama's selection of Biden as his Vice Presidential choice signals his attempt to hopefully bring those white, blue collar Appalachia corridor voters to his side.

Biden, the 66-year old Senator from Delaware, has been a pillar in Washington, DC politics for more than 35 years. Best known for off-the-cuff, one-line/one-word 'zingers', (many of which have gotten him in hot water in the past) Biden's foreign policy experience is what he is most respected for.

Having run for the highest office in the land twice before, in 1988 and 2008, Biden's unsuccessful attempts to offer his services as President of the United States can largely be attributed to his message mangling and then media muckraking. Biden, a Roman Catholic who is married to "drop-dead gorgeous wife", Jill, and is the father of three, will accept his party's nomination on Wednesday night of the convention.

A man who has prided himself on 'saying what he means and standing by what he says', an unscripted Biden has often been a magnet for media irritation. It will be interesting to see how he will be subject to Obama.

More telling will be how Obama's selection of Biden––although the best choice he could have made considering his V.P. short list possibilities–– will now require he and his team to revamp his entire message/theme during these final 70+ days of this election. By choosing the beltway-insider, long term senator, Biden... Obama has officially desecrated his "Change" and "Hope" mantra, which was the single and only mojo he had working for his campaign... and what had really propelled him to the political sphere he has been operating from the past 18 months.

The eyes of the nation will watch closely this week during the Convention to hear and see what the new brand will be for the Obama/Biden ticket.

Is An Obama/Clinton Head-Fake In the Making?

2008-08-20T03:13:00.000-07:00

The long, drawn-out process to select the Democratic nominee for the office of President of the United States of America will finally conclude next week in Denver. This 4-day gathering brings together all of the party faithful, Super Delegates, and many national, state, and local level Democratic elected officials under one big tent. At the conclusion of this 2008 Covention, presumptive nominee, Senator Barack Obama, is expected to walk away as the big kahuna. (Note the keyword "expected". Because as long as there is breath in Hillary Clinton's body, she still has a possibility to snatch this nomination right from under him, or be on the ticket as V.P.)

In this political year, where nothing seems to be what it is––Up is now down; Black is white; the best candidate is painted as the worst and vice versa–– conspiracy theories abound. And claims that there is a dead rat somewhere in the mix, are rampantly circulating.

Take for instance the unusual and unexplained 'ceremonial' roll call vote Obama is granting Hillary Cinton on the night he is to accept his party's nomination. Unless she is the selected V.P. on this year's ticket... ceding that much ground to her and Bill is not justified.

Then, supposedly after this non-binding first round vote call is complete, Clinton in turn is expected to play nice, and keep her word and cast any and all her delegates from this play-acting vote, back to Obama? Everybody leaves unified, happy and ready to rumble! That is either the biggest hoax or... to quote Bill Clinton, a big "fairy tale."

Coming off a disastrous non-debate at Saddleback Church against Republican nominee John McCain, lackluster performances at recent town hall/campaign rallies, and a continual drop in his poll numbers since mid-March–– where McCain is up by 5 points today... Obama must choose that someone who can bring back excitement to his campaign. And, none of the current Veeps leaked to the media as being on Obama's short list: Kaine, Biden, Bayh or Sebelius, have the necessary 'juice' to aid in a victory for the Democratic team in November. Obama, who didn't get where he is by being naive or stupid, has probably known from day one that Hillary goes on the ticket, or he loses in the Fall.

Was that the game plan all along? Presidential contender Ralph Nader, who has long been dubbed a political spoiler, may have been telegraphing the "planned" Democratic ruse in the following news release:

"Obama may dislike Hillary, but will conclude he has no choice but to get over it if he hopes to leave next week’s convention in Denver with a unified party and a decent shot against John McCain in the fall: The polls show 25 percent of her supporters have not gotten on board.”

Chiming in to echo Nader's claim, is longtime Clinton loyalist and choice supporter, Lynn Forester/Lady de Rothschild, who was quoted in an international newspaper as saying:

"My loyalty is to the Democrats winning. Barack Obama is going to have a serious problem getting elected, for good reason. The party needs to face the fact that without Hillary Clinton on the ticket, the Democrats will probably lose.”

So, if the Obama/Clinton strategy from the onset was to play out this enemy/adversary or "good cop, bad cop" drama all the way to the end... only to come together, display a huge show of unity at the convention, and leave Denver as a cohesive team... that would be a brilliant, well-executed strategy. Then, the Denver speaking line-up would begin to actually make sense: spotlight on Michelle Obama on Monday, Hillary on Tuesday, Bill Clinton on Wednesday, and Obama on Thursday. Talk about the 2008 Presidential/Vice Presidential team on display right before our very eyes each night! All that's left is to drop the Red, White and Blue balloons.

If this has been the strategy for the Democrats to win back the White House, it would be the biggest bamboozlement, in-your-face to the Republican party in modern history–– and would catch the GOP totally off-guard. Or, as Dan Gerstein, a Democratic consultant from New York so aptly phrased it:

“If he [Obama] determines that Hillary after all is the best choice to help him to win and to govern, they are capable of pulling off what would be the greatest head fake in American political history.”

Above His Pay Grade? Did Obama Say That?

2008-08-18T03:15:00.000-07:00

The Saddleback political forum, which was hosted by Pastor Rick Warren and featured presumptive nominees Barack Obama and John McCain, will be remembered as the night the momentum shifted in the 2008 election. News outlets have been wondering out loud where the Evangelicals have been in this year's presidential race? For the past 18 months, these sleeping lions have not come out in force to rally around either of the major party presidential hopefuls. Speculation has been that many, who supported George W. Bush in 2000 and 2004, may stay home in November... letting this year's election chips (or dimpled, hanging chads) fall where they may.

Well, the mighty 'roar' heard in many faith communities across the nation the day after Pastor Warren's Faith and Values non-debate, was the sound of Evangelicals who have been jarred from their dens of comfort, and will begin interjecting their voices and presence into this election cycle now... by Golly!

What was the game changer? Senator Barack Obama's answer versus John McCain's answer to Pastor Warren's question: "At what point does a baby get human rights in your view"?

McCain stated, in no uncertain terms:

"At the moment of conception."

Contrast that to Obama's eye-popping response... one that he can rest assured will hound him through November 5th:

"Well, I think that whether you are looking at it from a theological perspective or a scientific perspective, answering that question with specificity, you know is above my pay grade."

"Above his pay grade?" Now critics can berate Pastor Warren and challenge that question as a 'trick question" or a "question tailor-made" for Senator McCain, the Republican. But Obama had to know when he accepted the invitation to appear at this event that two issues are guaranteed to mobilize the evangelical base: keeping the homefront safe from radicals and terrorists... and what a future president thinks about the lives of innocent, unborn babies in this country.

And, because many Americans really don't know or trust Obama, some tuned into this much-hyped forum to evaluate him specifically... but both the candidates as well, side-by-side. Why no abortion policy statement handy? Or a well thought-out answer justifying whatever his position is or will be, ready to articulate to the American people in anticipation of this question?

But for Obama to present this "Above my pay grade" answer as meaningful thought in the political debate added insult to injury? Was it intended as a flippant retort? Was it supposedly a bad joke that went wrong? Whatever his reason or rationale... that remark is out there now, and... like toothpaste out of the tube... it can't be retracted.

The abortion conversation is certain to be a front and center wedge issue in this election. And Obama's ill-prepared 'pay grade' remark, forces those in bloggersville to further scrutinize all of his abortion voting records as an Illinois State Senator, and any positions on the subject that he has articulated for the past 20 years, to circulate to the millions of evangelicals... who, by the way, won't be sitting this election cycle out now, for sure!

McCain To Take-On Obama "Mano y Mano"

2008-08-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

Barring some unforseen occurrence––such as a last ditch mutiny effort on the part of the powerful PUMAs; the Denver Group; or other Hillary Clinton supporters––Senator Barack Obama seems on his way to becoming the first Black man in the history of this nation to successfully complete the 'initial' hurdle in the U.S. presidential process to secure his party's nomination. Few can argue that he has run a near flawless campaign against one of the most well-oiled political machines of this era––the Clintons.

In less than two weeks, Obama will begin competing to cross the 'second' hurdle in his quest for the highest office in the land. And this General Election playing field, where no Black has ever gone before, will pit an untested, fly-by-the-seat-of-his-pants Southside Chicago outsider against the been/there done/that, no-holds-barred-Republican... John McCain!

Obama's comments that McCain, and his Grand Old Party members would use 'race' to eclipse his historic run toward the 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue address, demonstrates his gross miscalculation of the battle he is about to undertake. The Republicans could not attack Obama from a racial frontal position. That would have been a lose-lose strategy, in that the Republican party... the party of Lincoln... is predominately white.

The Republicans are too shrewd to waste time or energy attacking that meager 12.5% African-Negroid portion of Obama's ethnic make-up. Look for them to take it to Obama just as they would any other White contender–– because he is 50% white. The strategy, more than likely, will be to force Obama–– for the first time in his adult life–– to lay aside the victimhood, affirmative action shtick that many whites feel he has milked extensively to get where he is today. (Remember the words of Geraldine Ferraro in the primary).

John McCain has already telegraphed how he plans to take Obama on: "white man to white man". How deftly did McCain (to the chagrin of party hacks) rebuke colleagues who mentioned Obama's middle name early on in the campaign. And his recent slapping the race card off-the-table for the duration of the contest when Obama tried to use it in Florida and again in Missouri. The general rule appears to be: "No references to race, nor preferences because of race will be tolerated by McCain". Rather... the presumptive Republican nominee will just pretend Obama is a white man with a 'deep tan' and proceed to try and 'annihilate' him as if he were any other competitor.

By making Obama fight the remaining 80-days of this race as white men fight will mean he won't be allowed to whine about the rules of engagement, or complain about the sure-to-come hits below the belt, such as the mountains of scandalous information already on ice and in the deep freezer about Obama/Soetoro waiting to be released. Neither can the media or other entities with no-quarter-in-this-dollar be permitted to jump in to try and save or 'influence' the outcome. Those primary race antics just won't happen!

No... the second and final hurdle in the race for the White House will be won or lost on this plane: "mano y mano".

Can Obama or McCain Think Outside the Box?

2008-08-13T03:08:00.000-07:00

The rumor mills are rife as to who this year's presidential candidates will select to fill the coveted Vice Presidential positions on their tickets. As the national Democratic and Republican conventions are fastly approaching, speculations continue to swirl that both Senators Obama and McCain may make unprecedented moves and reach across the aisle to select a running mate.

A Republican senator from Nebraska, Chuck Hagel's name is being tossed about as being on the short list of Democratic hopeful Obama... while long-time friend, confidant and Connecticut senator, Joe Lieberman's name is being bantered about as GOP nominee McCain's choice. Talk about throwing the 2008 Presidential election into a tailspin and risking Blue States turning Red and Red States possibly turning Blue! If such a scenario should indeed happen, it would be a political quagmire and throw the electorate into a perplexing conundrum.

Just how would an Obama/Hagel versus McCain/Lieberman showdown really be received to a voting population who says they prefer an end to partisan bickering and unity of this nation? And... more importantly, how would a very liberal Obama work with a staunch conservative like Hagel... and can a semi-conservative McCain realistically share power with the quasi-liberal Lieberman? Either of these pairings would be viewed as an insult by the loyalists in their respective parties, but seen as a bold move–– signaling a forward 'thinkingness' on the part of Obama or McCain to the all-too capricious independent and swing voters.

This being an unusual election year, and with a growing divide in the country at this time, the candidate with the chutzpah to couple with someone of a totally different political persuasion may be able to pull off such a feat... and also win points among those in the heartland of America.

While such a daring reach-across-the-aisle move is not new and has been tried unsuccessfully before (history buffs often refer to the ill-defined administration of President John Adams/Vice President Thomas Jefferson) this noble effort could make this 'history-making' election season even more unique and controversial.

Without a doubt, it would take a self-assured, confident leader––one who could withstand the harsh and relentless criticism from all sides–– to put forth a bi-partisan, Democrat/Republican, power sharing Presidential ticket for the first time in this generation. Well, who knows... McCain or Obama may be that sort of leader.

Far-fetched as it may seem... this may be the time for one (or both) of these Presidential wanna-bes to "think outside the box" ... and this may just be what is needed to coalesce this nation to move an agenda forward for the good of the people!