Craig Crawford's Trail Mix

"A nice person showed us around the building. He had an Obama button on. Just goes to prove that people supporting differing candidates can show respect for each other. This person recommended restaurants to the out of town people..They were excellent recommendations."

OD -- That's good to hear. Especially after what Jamie just experienced.

Obama has bigger problems than this dust-up. Right now he is only winning one of the historically significant Democratic and general election constituencies: Blacks, but not women, white males, Hispanics, Blue Collar, etc. Oh, the Media and his campaign can slice and dice these traditional consituencies by age, income, education to find groups that he is winning, but Come On! I'm with Hillary that He Can't Win.

I think Hillary's Big States - Electoral Votes story-line will become more persuasive should Obama falter. What would the pledged delegate count be if the Democratic primaries were winner-take-all (like the Republicans) and all of the super- delegates associated with her victories voted for her?

As a loyal Democrat I will vote for either of our nominees, but I fear that the math just doesn/t work for Obama. He even loses Independents to McCain.

http://postcards.ucomics.com/get/?MsgID=b65040fdfb39d13a6c418cc1fc2482c8&site_ref=ucomics

this is the first time i've heard a note of what sounded like frustration in obama's voice. npr played some tape of him clarifying his remarks this morning. much as i admire and like the guy, i agree with john hogue that clinton has a better chance of beating mccain in november. (pardon the lack of caps. killer sinus headache makes using the shift key seem like too much trouble.)

In trying to understand how Mr Obama actually feels about working class voters, what happened here in South Carolina jumped to mind.

I honestly think that here he used his superb organization to transmute frustration over slow economic progress and residuals of segregation into an acutely painful racial bitterness that drove people to protest at (thank God) the polls.

Just now, after two months, are black and white people starting to enjoy being around each other once again and starting to recognize that many of their problems cross race.

I have no doubt that my vote here is meaningless because this state will go Republican in the Fall. And, I suspect many black voters will recognize that they were manipulated in the primary. How they'll vote in the general is a matter of conjecture.

I think his remarks in California actually do reflect his disdain for working class voters who, because of their failure to change their circumstance, are embittered, distrustful, and seeking refuge in churches. Further, I think he will use the same organizational skills he used here to create such dissatisfaction that lower income people will overwhelmingly support him in the polls.

Now, his strategy has been voiced, albeit to his elite financial backers. And voters have the chance to evaluate whether his message is genuine or Hamelinian.

If you did not watch Washington Journal on C-SPAN this morning they served up another wake up call on the problems of food, population, and fuel. The rates of starvation around the world are climbing. More and more land is being given over to population. Large amounts of acreage are being turned from food production to fuel production (instead of wind/solar/and garbage). When all this is combined with the destruction of species and exhaustion of land with global warming. It's going to get ugly out there.

Just hit snooze. You can all roll over and go back to sleep now.

Jamie, c-span is always on in the background here (except when Stinky changes it for something more exciting). Funny how it's taken over the role that CNN enjoyed for so many years.

"they served up another wake up call on the problems of food, population, and fuel. The rates of starvation around the world are climbing. > When all this is combined with the destruction of species and exhaustion of land with global warming. It's going to get ugly out there."

Jamie -- Yes, this is the bubbling going on right under the surface. I've seen several reports of late about rioting because of food -- the news coming in from Haiti is especially ominous. If we think oil is a problem, wait until it's food and water.

In Job Search, Gonzales Sees No Takers
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/13/washington/13gonzales.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

"He has, through friends, put out inquiries, they said, and has not found any takers. What makes Mr. Gonzales’s case extraordinary is that former attorneys general, the government’s chief lawyer, are typically highly sought."

This stuns me. Even though he is odious, or maybe because he is, I would have thought he'd be snapped up. Thanks for posting this excellent news, Brian!

From the first time I saw Obama, I picked up that he was a bit arrogant, a bit frou frou elitest. And his wife, Michele, seems even more disconnected from the average middle-class American. Maybe their own barely concealed bitterness toward what they see as a "mean" country is what they're projecting on the masses. If Obama becomes the nominee, I doubt he can win the election against McCain. Obama doesn't connect to many mainstream voters and he's alienated Clinton supporters completely. Most of my Democratic women friends will not vote for Obama no matter what. If "O" becomes the nominee, Dems will get a big surprise in the fall when huge numbers of Clinton supporters don't support Obama--all those "old" white women.

Perhaps after his nasty remarks about embittered working class voters, Obama might begin to receive the sort of scrutiny-under
the-microscope examination that Mrs. Clinton has undergone since
she announced her intention to run for President. But, Mr. Slick Obama-man
will probably get another pass. MSNBC, the Obama cable channel,
will no doubt deluge its news shows on Monday with Chris Mathews,
Keith Olbermann, and Tim Russert, Obama's wing men, who'll spin
Obama's put down of the working classes into "what he really meant was..."
and show pictures of him dazzling starry- eyed nineteen year olds.

I hope, you, Craig, don't turn into one of the punditzillas--drooling
androids courting Obama without critical thinking or objectivity.

You seem so charming nurturing your garden the other day. Please
don't lose your journalistic honor.

http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/channel/human-footprint/

This is a special about the human footprint, it airs tonight. Looks interesting.

From the first time I saw Obama, I picked up that he was a bit arrogant,

Posted by: prof marcia

Understated but accurate. I think Craig is quite singular in his honest assessments.

toast

http://www.thehumorarchives.com/joke/bitter_persons_horoscope

BHO born August 4 -
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
You consider yourself a born leader. Others think you are pushy. Most Leos are bullies. You are vain and cannot tolerate honest criticism. Your arrogance is disgusting. Leo people are thieving bastards and kiss mirrors a lot.

( tongue in cheek)

"She described herself as a pro-gun churchgoer, recalling that her father taught her how to shoot a gun when she was a young girl and said that her faith “is the faith of my parents and my grandparents.”

http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/04/12/clinton-portrays-herself-as-a-pro-gun-churchgoer/

She is aware she's running for the Dem nomination and not the GOP right?

As I read the comments here, I have to honestly say that many of you sound bitter. This whole flap appears to be another re-enactment of "a gaffe in Washington is telling the truth".

Sorry, typo in my last post. The work is "elitist."

another typo-- word not work...sorry...I've been up doing my
taxes all night.

ah.......Jimmie Carter says he does not endorse anyone yet and will not until the convention.......

"Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
You consider yourself a born leader. Others think you are pushy. Most Leos are bullies. You are vain and cannot tolerate honest criticism. Your arrogance is disgusting. Leo people are thieving bastards and kiss mirrors a lot. "

Ha! My birthday: August 18.

Bitter is one of those terms that truly can cuts into persons core. It is a mean-spirited word, unless being use to discibe flavor.

Whenever people describe people they do not know personally, it is a reflection of the speakers thoughts and beliefs. It is that simple. Obama said what he thought was true, I do not know why that is so difficult to grasp.

Bitter was only one word of the whole quote, and the rest of it was equally as bad if not worse.

He'll get a pass from the press, but, people do not take kindly to being insulted, and usually they do not forget.

Before wading into the "bitter" flap, day 2 on C List, thanks to Jamie and Patsi for bringing up C-Span's program on starvation on the increase worldwide. Had not been following that.

It's very easy to get caught up in the politics of this affluent country and too easy to forget the life and death choices other peoples and economies face. (Yes, we have hunger in America too, but not on a structural level as found elsewhere.)

Kudos to Flatus, too, for reminding us of C-Span's importance in a country where CNN has gone infotainment and ratings-driven.

I really miss Headline News of several years back, where you could tune in at 3:30 a.m. and get a recap of overnight and day's news. Today you are as likely to find Glenn Beck -- horrors -- or their Hollywood show.

Guess CNN figures most insomniac newshounds get their news online; they actually drive you to your laptop at that hour. Just try to get some new info from CNN, unless something extraordinary is happening. Nope, you get third rerun of Larry King and other rebroadcasts.

Welcome also to John Hogue, and return of prof marcia and jericho and even the urbane (but wrongheaded!!) toast.

Pasti ,
All the horoscopes are bad -that's what makes them funny.

: )

kissing mirrors....lol

this is mine : (

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
You are conservative and afraid of taking risks. You are basically chicken. There has never been a Capricorn of any importance. You should kill yourself.

jericho4119

"I have to honestly say that many of you sound bitter."

Bitter doesn't even begin to describe my mood this morning.
Although, taking down the old varmit rifle and killing some thing on the way to church might help.

You know, living in a neighborhood with many Mexican immigrants has improved my life. Not only do I get great home made tamales on a regular basis.

They have also given me a great word for mornings like this one.
Pendejo

I find my self muttering it more and more lately.

A good song for this morning.
Johnny Cash-Sunday Morning Coming Down
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Cru2ld06-A

Jack

Yes dog, day 2 of the "bitter flap" on C List, but after all of Craig's coverage of the "mark penn flap", the "bosnia flap" and all of "Bill's Flaps" I guess it's only fair of Craig to be dedicating two days and most likely tomorrow too to the "bitter flap" Craig Crawford, fair and balanced.

I just read a fascinating article this morning by Mike Allen "12 Reasons
Bitter Is Bad for Obama" on Politico about why Obama's remark could be a turning point in the campaign. The writer lists the reasons this
misstep is worse for Obama than Rev. Wright. Allen seems to think this
is a real stumbling point for the Obama momentum.

I agree with Obama.

People in small towns have seen their real wages declining, their benefits shrinking, and their jobs being outsourced. Businesses that can't outsource (like midwestern meat packers) are busy hiring illegals.

These epope, ARE bitter, and they DO turn to religion and guns, in part because those are the GOP's wedge issues. The Republicans have people believing that, "I don't have a job, but I'm OK because I still have my guns."

Obama is correct in shifting the blame to the Repblicans, and to pro-business "neo-liberals" like the Clintons, who brought us NAFTA, saying it would "create jobs."

Obama's ideas are the future of the Democratic party, if it wishes to have a future. Clintons's ideas are just the same old Republican ideas, dressed up in fake liberal landguage.

Nash,

Do you think Obama should have stuck to his guns (so to speak) ?

burrito he has stuck to his "guns", he's simply clarified his point.

OK, Talking Points Memo published a letter from "Theda Skocpol" today without identifying her at all.

However, Theda Skocpol exists and who she is is as interesting as her letter. Per Wikipedia (edited for brevity):

Theda Skocpol (born May 4, 1947) is an American sociologist and political scientist at Harvard University.

Was Dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences from 2005-07; has written widely for both popular and academic audiences and in 2007 won one of the world's most prestigious prizes in political science.

She is Harvard's first tenured female sociologist; she sued Harvard in the early 1980s and won her case proving gender discrimination.

She writes on social policy and civic engagement; wrote a 1996 book on Clinton's Health Security Plan and co-authored a book on progressive politics with Stan Greenberg, former Clinton pollster.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theda_Skocpol

Establishing her credentials here, because letter follows in next link.

Oh, in passing the TV - I heard that he said he "regretted' what he said.

"Obama's ideas are the future of the Democratic party, if it wishes to have a future. "

The future of the Democratic party is to praise Ronnie Reagan and trash Bill Clinton, then turn around and bend over for the Republicans and "hope" they don't screw you? Who knew?

Kris doing "Sunday Morning Coming Down"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wp7kRaQlLHY

Jack

This all gives Obama the opportunity to present a speech on Tuesday, that will be seen as the greatest speech on bitterness since time began.

Theda Skocpol's letter or email to Talking Points, it's concise so I am putting up full text TPM published:

"I have been in meetings with the Clintons and their advisors where very clinical things were said in a very-detached tone about unwillingness of working class voters to trust government -- and Bill Clinton -- and about their unfortunate (from a Clinton perspective) proclivity to vote on life-style rather than economic issues. To see Hillary going absolutely over the top to smash Obama for making clearly more humanly sympathetic observations in this vein, is just amazing. Even more so to see her pretending to be a gun-toting non-elite. Give us a break!

I wonder if she realizes that gaining a few days of lurid publicity that might reach a slice of voters is going to cost her a great deal in the regard of many Democrats, whose strong support she will need if she somehow claws her way to the nomination -- and even more so if she does not clinch the nomination. The distribution of "we're not bitter" stickers to her campaign rallies is the height of over-the-top crudity, and the reports are that very few audience members seem to have much enthusiasm for this nonsense. Not surprisingly, people cannot see the reasons for so much fuss.

Yes, she wants a big break, she desperately wants the nomination she and Bill believe is hers by right. We all know that. But where is her authenticity and her dignity and her sense of any proportion?

This has to be one of the few times in U.S. political history when a multi-millionaire has accused a much less wealthy fellow public servant, a person of the same party and views who made much less lucrative career choices, of "elitism"! (I won't say the only time, because U.S. political history is full of absurdities of this sort.) In a way, it is funny -- and it may not be long before the jokes start."

http://talkingpointsmemo.com/archives/188673.php

I am wondering if people are missing the point in Obama regret? He said IF IF I said said something wrong I regret. IF he cannot even take responsibility for his actions. He does not believe he said a thing wrong. He even ended his "regret" statement with I stand by what I said.
People want him to be our president? What can they be thinking.
Between this and listening to Wright for 20 years, this man SHOULD NOT be president. It is a bit scary.
Remember this was the man who had a POSITIVE attitude, an uplifting attitude. WRONG

I wonder how they knew how long to leave a roast in the oven before time began........

Wonder if Obama has ever used the term "bitter" to describe his wife, Michelle?

"This has to be one of the few times in U.S. political history when a multi-millionaire has accused a much less wealthy fellow public servant, a person of the same party and views who made much less lucrative career choices, of "elitism"! "

I guess she got the memo. I'm not a multi-millionaire and I think he's condescending as hell.

Like several here, this woman can't stand the fact that a Bubba got rich. And PLEASE don't send in a Democrat who will actually be a fighter. Send in a charmer. Kind of like throwing a poodle into a pen of pit bulls. Every day in every way I see more Liebermans showing up in Obama's camp.

Why would he do that burrito?

Burrito

That astrology link reminded me of an old comedy routine about the different signs. The only one I remember clearly was Aries and the character "Peter P. Pushy" who broke down the door. The closest thing on You Tube is "I Am The Ram".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CWnp5wOz6c

There are songs for each of the signs.

Just few days ago all the Clinton supporters were whining about how "sexist" the MSM was, and how it was giving Obama a free ride.

Now the MSM and the Hillary people are conspiring to distort the meaning of Obama's comments, because they don't want to recognize the insightful point he was making. It disrupts their simplistic worldview; it challenges their basic assumptions.

And they can't have that. Both the MSM and the Hillary campaign are based on an absence of ideas, in pursuit of profit and power.

Clinton was already winning WV and KY by 20+ after Obama's "people in small towns don't support me because they're bitter, gun loving bigots" I'm thinking she could win those two states by 30% now. ROFL.

"Kind of like throwing a poodle into a pen of pit bulls"

lol

That image just fits with this morning

We are so screwed.

Jack

Brian,

It's an unusual word to use describing people you do not personally know. I imagine he "knows" he wife. Maybe he choose that word because he has used it in the past, with people he actually knows. Michelle would fall into that category.

"Clinton has undergone since she announced her intention to run for President. "

It won't be from the media...they craddled him in their arms yesterday and said "there there Obomie...MSM will take care of everything...don't you worry" and then proceeded to somehow make this all Clinton's fault. This of course was on CNN...not sure about the others...MSNBC was of course running murder shows and prison shows all day ROFL.

btw...high prof. Marcia

Funny Jamie : )

You're twisting words again Windy. I realize as a Clinton supporter you thinks that's how campaigns are run, but you should avoid it. Easily caught, and easily proved the fool.

Jack

"how long to leave a roast in the oven before time began........"

No ovens. The sun took care of timing and the roast was burning over an open fire.

BHO quote:

“It's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.”

Obama's comments are useful because they may open up a substantive debate about the impact that conservative economic policies have had on the middle and lower classes.

IF we can have a real debate, and not a shallow barrage of sound bites and slogans from Clinton and McCain.

True Wendy! Did you see Jim Acosta yesterday? Who died? He said Clinton has been waiting for this and will "use" it? Oh she is sooo mean. Guess what the people are not THAT stupid. Go PA!

Some more of those bitter folks that ain't votin' Democrat this year.

Craig Morgan-Redneck Yacht Club
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AsGOX7DMVCg

Jack

Dog keep barking. It is absolutely clear that the NeoLiberal Elite along with the more radical wing is pushing Obama. And this person doesn't even have the BRAINS to see what Carol just said. He is so friggin arrogant, HE WON"T BE LECTURED BY ANYONE unless they're WRIGHT. To accuse Clintons of being an elitiist because they're wealthy is absurd given the backing by Soros, Auchi and Oprah of Obama. The Clinton's have always known that they represent the NEW DEMOCRATS which appeal to the more working class, centrist group of the Party. Did YOU just discover this? I suggest you take a good look at San Fran and see the history of the split between the elite and the Middle. No wonder so many blacks have LEFT San Fran.

In any case I submit this.

http://obamawtf.blogspot.com/2008/04/canadian-media-points-to-obamas-ties-to.html

And before you all cry that some blogs linked to WTF are Republican or Conservative, read the articles which are mostly well documented. They will CRASH on Obama's head in the general. You will see that there is a huge disconnect between what Obama is selling and what his history and record show. The particular article from Canada reveals why Nader said Obama was pro-Palestinian before running. He was being kind, but then don't expect an apology from Obama.

Wendy!: did you see my Theda Skocpol comments?

Would think observations by such a groundbreaking and acclaimed sociologist (and check out the publications list -- she wrote a 1996 book on the Clinton Health Security Plan) would carry some weight with you.

RE polls: I'd be interested in seeing them closer to the weekend; lots of time for this to play out.

I think this might be the moment Hillary jumped the shark; it's an obviously overreaching attack on Obama and she has none of Bill's usual finesse.

Jamie

I believe Sturgeone ask that profound philosophical question.
People often confuse us, I'm the good looking one

Jack

What Clinton wishes she could say

"Here is why: She and Bill Clinton both devoutly believe that Obama’s likely victory is a disaster-in-waiting. Naive Democrats just don’t see it. And a timid, pro-Obama press corps won’t tell the story.

Far from a no-holds-barred affair, the Democratic contest has been an exercise in self-censorship.

Republicans will also ruthlessly exploit openings that Clinton — in the genteel confines of an intraparty contest — never could. Top targets: Obama’s radioactive personal associations, his liberal ideology, his exotic life story, his coolly academic and elitist style.

This view has been an article of faith among Clinton advisers for months, but it got powerful new affirmation last week with Obama’s clumsy ruminations about why “bitter” small-town voters turn to guns and God.

That is why some friends describe Clinton as seeing herself on a mission to save Democrats from themselves.

Skepticism about Obama’s general election prospects extends beyond Clinton backers. We spoke to unaffiliated Democratic lawmakers, veteran lobbyists and campaign operatives who believe the rush of enthusiasm for Obama’s charisma and fresh face has inhibited sober appraisals of his potential weaknesses.

The frustration and even anger emananating from the Clintonites comes from being unable to say in public what they think in private."

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0408/9564.html

Obama's comments are intended to stimulate thought about economic policy. I guess that's why he's called an "elitist."

Hillary uses racist code words to incite the gun-toting rednecks into hating blacks, and blaming them for all their problems. (The Republicans are angry because she's stealing their strategy.)

F we can have a real debate, and not a shallow barrage of sound bites and slogans from Clinton and McCain.

Posted by: nash Author Profile Page | April 13, 2008 11:07 AM

Nash you expect too much.

Get a clue, Hillary people.

All the bitter, unemployed, church-going gun nuts are going to vote for McCain, no matter how much she panders to them.

I agree with nash here, and I am a bit bewildered that Obama is not being heralded as being honestly bold as he accurately described the attitudes of working people.
Certainly, bitterness trumps contentedness these days as people try to survive.
In my own experience , I have noticed , for example, a piece of cheese costs 20% more than it did in January.
People just try to find a way, work all they can, and still see a declining lifestyle.
Yes, Clinton and Gore pushed NAFTA, and working people complained, but were shouted down by even the leadership of the unions because wages and real buying power increased under Clinton .
The workers could see the long-term effects a-coming, the leadership could not and would not.
It was "don't rock the boat" and since things were going so well, Clinton and Gore got a pass on NAFTA.
It's good to see that Obama is not backing away from the content of his remarks.
We, the hayseeds of fly-over land ,know that he knows us, heart and soul.

Welcome also to John Hogue, and return of prof marcia and jericho and even the urbane (but wrongheaded!!) toast

Posted by: dog hussein dog.

We respectfully disagree and civility reigns while the angels weep to a background chorus of "Sunny Boy".

Remember this was the man who had a POSITIVE attitude, an uplifting attitude. WRONG

Posted by: Carol

Your spot on. IF!

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings--nor lose the common touch,

--Rudyard Kipling

toast

I have also noticed that "elites" has replaced "elitists" in the modern vernacular. Even Frank Rich has switched the words.
I wonder why?

Brian: We are surrounded by Hillary people. It's like "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" or "Invaders from Mars." Just let me see the back of your neck...

What Obama was talking about is how the working poor are abused by the GOP, instead of dealing with issues that will actually improve their lives, they dangle god, gays, and guns in front of their noses as if it were a pork chop and they are starved dogs.

And what does Hillary do, she brags about being a gun lover and a church goer. It's sickening and just reinforces why so many in the party don't trust her.

We've heard that a million monkeys at a million keyboards could produce the complete works of Shakespeare; now, thanks to the Internet, we know that is not true.
---Robert Wilensky, speech at a 1996 conference.

Sincerely,
One Monkey

Jack that's what I get for taking the high road and failing to look down below.

Calling religion and guns the bitter fall back of the Blue Collar workers is meant to stimulate economic conversations? WTF is certainly right.

And support of Wright is meant to stimulate a converstation about race.

Support of Khalidi is mean to stimulate a converation about the existence if Israel.

Support of Ayers is meant to stimulate a converation about the criminality of the US government and "rich people".

Support of Meeks and Lee is meant to stimulate a converation about the immorality of gays.

Perhaps Democrats ought not to be so stimulated if they want to win the White House.

And Obama's economic plans? Here is a good one: cut defense spending so American and pay for even more than 67% of foreign students in our graduate programs.

McCain and the 100 years statement.

I am McCain's "Ernest Hemingway"

I was the questioner at the January 3 Town Hall Meeting in Derry, NH, who McCain called Ernest Hemingway and who asked him what he hoped to accomplish in Iraq and how long it would take. When I pressed him for a time frame and cited George Bush's figure of fifty years, Senator McCain shocked me by saying "Maybe a hundred".

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dave-tiffany/mccain-told-me-100-years_b_95522.html

Dexter,

""elites" has replaced "elitists" "

For years the far right freeper wing of the Republican party has been using the code words "liberal elites" to describe the far left wealthy wing of the Democratic party. it has now caught on to mean a kind of knee jerk liberalism that refuses to question itself just as that far right knee jerk gang refuses to question themselves.

The broad middle thinks both sides are crazy.

Dex:

"Elites" are rich people.

"Elitists" are intellectuals who argue that govt policies should favor the rich. (e.g. Milton Friedman & WF Buckley.)

Calling Obama an "elitist" is Orwellian double-speak. The GOP and the Clinton wing of the Democratic party are the real elitists, but they cleverly slap that label on progressives to drive a wedge between them and white lower-class voters, who would otherwise be their allies.

The word "CLING" is also damaging.

Gordo: Fabric softener will prevent "clinging."

No Nash, all those Red States Obama thinks he owns will vote for McCain including some Blue ones if Obama runs. It is funny how clueless you are.

Yes, Dexter, hail Obama. Is that what's going on. When falling in shit, say, hey, lets fall deeper. Sounds like good judgment to me.

You cling to your obvious sound reasoning and the Middle class will cling to their religion. Kind of shows what Obama thinks about his religion. And when he was in Peen he tried to spin a pro-gun position.

He has heard the Superdelegates talking about his electibility and told the elite that the Middle is just bitter and clings to religion and gun because they're economically stressed. That's just what dumb Blue Collar people do. Smart people like Obama cling to Rezko, a dn have friends like Ayers and Khalidi. They take money from Soros. Obama just got called on his BS, but Obamniacs want to tar Hillary and divert attention from the "smartest and most intelligent candidate in the race".

Have fun with that......

Have fun explaining to Americans why a person who just said that 9/11 NEVER HAPPENED should sit across the table from a US President and discuss our "relationship". Anyone know who the Middle East leader is?

"Obama's comments are intended to stimulate thought about economic policy. I guess that's why he's called an "elitist."

Actually not--Obama's "bitter" comments were made in response to a question posed as to why he was not winning over PA voters, raised at a meeting
of affluent contributors assembled at a San Fran fundraiser's billionaire's row home for a private $2,000+ fundraiser.

Clinging to a gun is bad because you can get oil on your clothes, and perspiration can cause rusting.

Clinging to a church is OK, unless it was just painted.

I know that I will vote for ANYONE but a democrat or republican

---Jesse Ventura

"It disrupts their simplistic worldview; it challenges their basic assumptions. "

Oh puh-leeze. Spare me the condescending crappola, Nash. There are more educated people than yourself on this blog. You remind me of an assistant prof I had in college. He thought he was the only available source, too.

Dog...I'll wait till they release the audio...

Talking Points Memo...now there is an objective source.

;-)

The beauty of it isn't what people say behind closed doors the beauty is that got ole Obomie on tape talking about why "typical white people" don't vote for him.

ROFL

Prof Marcia

I meant to say "HI" not "High" wow...completely different meaning. I'm glad you're here.

Dog logic:

1. Obama calls working class Americans ignorant redneck bigots clutching to guns and religion.

2. Hillary calls him out for saying shit that may bury him in the general.

3. Translation: Hillary jumps the shark.

Uh.....

Sturgeone: Loved that Robt Wilensky quote re the internet proving the "monkeys typing Shakespeare" theory wrong.

Thank you!

Gordo: that Politico story you put up was fascinating, although perhaps not for the reasons you intended. Reading it more closely and will comment on it later.

Whether it's about race or economic policy, Obama refuses to utter the conservative talking points that are accepted as "fact" by the both the MSM and the Clintons.

Anyone who dares to run for office in this country and does not espouse conservative dogma, will face the wrath of "the establishment" of both parties, and the MSM.

And Obama isn't even THAT progressive. Just a tiny bit.

"I guess she got the memo. I'm not a multi-millionaire and I think he's condescending as hell."

Me too...and thought this long before he said the "typical white people" comment and the "bitter, gun loving bigots" comment.

"Obama's comments are intended to stimulate thought about economic policy. I guess that's why he's called an "elitist."Hillary uses racist code words to incite the gun-toting rednecks into hating blacks, and blaming them for all their problems. (The Republicans are angry because she's stealing their strategy.) "

In your wet dreams, Nash. He was trying to give himself cover to big SF donors for the upcoming Pennsylvania loss. "They're racists! AND they got guns and bibles!" Are you really that politically naive?

Also...funny to watch Brian run around the blog trying to defend Obama...talk about looking like a fool.

Patsi: Clinton cannot win the general election if she plans to run on Republican ideas. Why vote for a watered-down Republican when you can vote for the real thing? (McCain.)

Of course, Clinton's real problem is that she can't win the nomination, unless she can bully the superdelegates into stealing it for her.

We'll see if the VOTERS in upcoming primaries buy into the MSM-fueled "church and gun" flap, or whether they ignore it, like they did the Rev. Wright flap.

Obama Visits Billionaires Row

"So although the San Francisco Bay Area is probably the most pro-Obama section of the entire country, with Obama signs and stickers visible everywhere you turn, when Obama himself actually visited his electoral home base, he ignored the hoi polloi -- all the little people who swoon over him -- and instead, he spent the entire day with the rich."

http://www.zombietime.com/obama_visits_billionaires_row/

Repeatedly, whenever Obama does not have talking points on hand or a prepared speech he says the damnedest things.
What in the world is he thinking?

It's like that SNL skit when Kristie Alley claims she hasn't gained her weight back, and Tina Fey says, "she knows we can see her, right?"

http://www.nbc.com/Saturday_Night_Live/video/play.shtml?mea=229113

A snippet of video of the San Fran fundraiser was put out by Politico. The video-snippet shows only the statement before Obama's "bitter" comments, but it provides insight into what "elites" or "elitists"" find humorous. Can also access thru noquarter.

http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/0408/Video_from_San_Francisco.html

It's been fun taking abuse from all you bitter, small-town Hillary supporters, but I've got to go to church, and then I'll be going home to clean my guns and listen to the political commentary on Fox News.

They'll probably be arguing that ALL Democrats are elitists.

Elitism is bad, so I guess we should stop arguing about Obama and Clinton and just vote for McCain.

The biggest issue here is that Obama has played right into the hands of the GOP. Of COURSE the GOP has played to people's fears. And certainly what Obama said has some merit. But he made an across-the-board insulting generalization about people who own guns, religious people and rural people in general. Hillary had to run with this or risk democrats being once again branded as a bunch of contemptuous fops.

How damn dumb can a politician in America get?

But then, he's able to keep a lot of people on the slow boat to Guyana, so who knows?

"Actually not--Obama's "bitter" comments were made in response to a question posed as to why he was not winning over PA voters"

Right which makes his backpedaling non-apology explanation just as condescending. He went from calling them "bitter, gun loving bigots" to saying they were "small minded individuals who vote on one issue out of anger rather than capable of voting on issues and values that are important to them."

I wonder if it every occurred to him that they aren't voting for him because they don't like him, his friends and/or his policies? I wonder...

This week we saw a window into the thinking of Senator Barack Obama..

This week has revealed the ultimate election weakness of the Illinois senator which could lead the Democrats to electoral disaster in November.

"We'll see if the VOTERS in upcoming primaries buy into the MSM-fueled "church and gun" flap, or whether they ignore it, like they did the Rev. Wright flap."

Actually---I don't believe that any VOTERS have voted since the "Rev. Wright flap"-- so it remains to be seen whether voters in the upcoming primaries have ignored it or not.

The Politico clip is great...thought he'd go ahead and reinforce the part about them being BIGOTS...nice Barrack..good job.

And then all the rich white people laugh...

"We'll see if the VOTERS in upcoming primaries buy into the MSM-fueled "church and gun" flap, or whether they ignore it, like they did the Rev. Wright flap."

It's not the Democrats who'll do him in -- it's the indies and Repubs in the general. He's unelectable. And you will have given Bush a third term.

Wow....talk about "magic"...

I thought this weekend - all the news shows were going to be talking about Bill Clinton's latest gaffe re: Bosnia. But then all of a sudden - Obama's comments from a week or so ago - hit the news on Friday.

(Perfect or horrible timing depending on your perspective. And one has to wonder how Obama's comments made it into the news cycle - but no one seems to be concerned about that fact.)

And instead of talking about Wild Bill - the Clintonites are all over the news spreading another attack that can be used against the Democratic nominee in the fall.

It is almost comical to watch Evan Bayh - a blue blood born with a silver-spoon in his mouth and one of those politicians that keeps that "perma-grin" on his face as he sticks a knife right in Obama's back....

(Of course the Clinton camp ended up using McCain's attack. When the story first hit - Clinton was calling Obama's comments "demeaning" - way over the top. The GOP are better liars because they don't go as far. McCain used a spin that is much more believable, i.e., Obama is an elitist and out of touch...a standard Republican attack made against Dems.)

Anyways, have your fun this weekend and we will see what happens in PA. Remember that whatever people are talking about next weekend will be more likely to impact actual voting decisions in PA..

Patsi...you're last comment is spot on. The dim-witted Dems will go ahead and nominate him just like they did John Kerry and they'll lose the general election...enjoy President McCain.

Wendy --- When I watched the SF snippet I wondered
if It was just my perception that the audience seemed
to whole-heartedly enjoy the apparent "joke at the
expense of PA voters"--at a minimum condescending,
however truthfully sad to have video confirmation of
what many see as the great divide in this country.

Do you think the release of this snippet was intended to
help Obama--if so I think it further diminishes his
aura?

Also, will the msm play this over & over? Any bets?

I know Warren...isn't it great the big favor Obama did for Clinton...

Given that Obama will spend the week defending himself over the mounting whitey that won't vote for me is a stupid bigot comments he's made the past several weeks...I have a feeling we'll be talking about this next weekend. So I guess it really will depend on whether he can send a chill up Chris Matthews leg when he delivers his groundbreaking "Bitter in America" speech this week or not.

;-)

"1. Obama calls working class Americans ignorant redneck bigots clutching to guns and religion."

Patsi stop projecting.

"I thought this weekend - all the news shows were going to be talking about Bill Clinton's latest gaffe re: Bosnia. But then all of a sudden - Obama's comments from a week or so ago - hit the news on Friday." - Warren

Oh yes, this is SUCH a burning and all-important issue of importance to people that are losing their jobs, homes, and God knows what else. Oil prices, Iraq and our failing economy pale in comparison to anything Bill Clinton says with respect to his wife.

Leave it to an Obama apologist to put things in the proper perspective for us.

And I guess all these attacks on Obama are "fair". Especially since Obama broke two cardinal rules of politics - speaking the truth (about stuff people don't want to hear about) and then apologizing for it.

(Just ask Carville - once you apologize - you implicitly admit you did something wrong.).

I think they thought it would help...but Politico does lean to the right...so maybe they saw what we saw. I think it reaffirms his view that people that don't buy his crap are bigots.

Fox will happily play it over and over MSNBO won't. But again...should give superDs pause.

Completely off topic but quote of the day:

James Carville [in response to Richardson's latest attempt to defend himself]: Richardson knows that I know the truth.

Reporting what Obama said is considered an ATTACK? Welcome to Hillary's word. How does it feel now that the shoe is on the other foot?

It's clear now that the Dems are going to lose another presidential election. Obama's "bitter" comment has finally given Clinton the perfect weapon to destroy him.

This will hand the election to McCain but I don't think Hillary or her followers care about that any more. Obama MUST be destroyed, regardless of the consequences.

Congratulations, Hillary people. VICTORY!

That should say "Hillary's world."

How distressing for Obamarama that the "Yes we can" express gets derailed by reality.

Nash...typical to blame Hillary for Obama's stupidity. What will lose the election for the Dems is nominating a candidate who hates white people and then talks about it in public. Turn that little finger right back around because it is YOUR candidate that has lost this election for the Dems.

sorry...I misspoke.,..what I meant to say was Obama hates "typical white people" he can't guilt trip into voting for him and talks about it in public.

Jamie:

The troubling think about starvation is Sam's Club. I mean while people are starving - we have stock piles of food - like a 5-pound jars of peanut butter - that are collecting dust on the shelves.

An interesting study would be how much food - that is still good and could be eaten - in industrialized nations is thrown away vs. how much food is needed to feed people that are starving all over the world.

Waste not - want not.

Obama is being destroyed by Obama!

Many on this site have been saying for a long time that time is Hillary's best friend.

But...before we all get ahead of ourselves..remember that in politics a week is a lifetime.

The twists and turns of the campaign will continue.

In the end, hopefully we will nominate the strongest candiatge for November.

I believe that candidae is Hillary Clinton.

Others may disagree.

Sorry Nash, I know how hard it is to grasp the idea that your candidate made a mistake and this flap is actually HIS fault.

Or am I to understand that Hillary is responsible for any gaffe made by the anointed one?

I see ... Hillary and her "pod" people planted some sort of message in Barack's brain with her icy stare at the Petraeus hearings ...

It caused the man of hope to say something that Hillary could use to "destroy" him. Hmmm, that must have been her plan all along. Why didn't we all see that coming?

I'm sure Keith Olbermann will have a special comment on Monday night to explain how Hillary used mind-control to trap Obama.

What Wendy? Obama hates me? Holy cow!! And to think all this time I have been supporting him and defending him...

Man - screw that guy. OD - get me a HRC sign - I am going to take it to the streets for her!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G54lfxiid_w

(I do enjoy you hyberbole though Wendy. If I am "Doris Day" - you are "Chicken Little")

A few weeks ago, FNC told how much airtime Rev Wright had received on broadcast and cable channels - not very much. It was from a few seconds to zero (I'm referring to GD America, etc.). Except for FNC, MSM downplayed the Rev's statements. They got coverage on right wing radio. Many "Typical White People" have not heard Rev Wright. Combine Wright with all that other "stuff" and Obama has little chance in the GE. Also, the Attack/Smear machine would cause Obama to lose some of his young/new supporters.

Warren, you wish MSM would still talk about Bosnia. Is that the extent of your strategy? News Flash: When Hillary was in Bosnia visiting our troops which were sent there by the Clinton administration (and MANY have verified that Hillary STRONGLY backed our intervention), Obama was hanging out with Khalidi and Ayers while Auchi's Oil for Food money was finding its way into Obama's political aspirations. Just remember that a you cling to your Obama high road.

While Obama was busy kissjing ass to anti-American and anti-Zionist promoters, Hillary was visitng real foreign hotspots, not establishing street cred with American's finest. So lament the fact that MSM can't beat the Bosnia story over and over and cover up the BS Obama is slinging.

You obviously haven't read the read facts about Obama's BS Pro-Israel history. I bet despite Obama telling Carter not to speak to HAMAS, when he returns to endorse Obama, Carter will find a warm place in an Obama administration along side his side kick ZBIG.

By your mreasure equating Hillary with McCain, ALL presidents have been Republicans....LOL You say exactly what this fight is about: NeoLIberals have tried to make centrists into Republicans. And when the country rejects that, blame Hillary.

Republicans can't govern, but we are seeing the reason Democrats can't get elected. Despite Bush, Dean and company cling to that gun they hold to their dense heads. Politico is right on target and I expect the Democrats to pull the trigger.

Good luck with that.

Speaking the truth Warren....wrong

apologizing for it? .....wrong again

Want to make it three for three? That will probably be your next post.

Hey - the story supposedly originates from Buddhist Indian folklore....interesting:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Sky_Is_Falling_%28fable%29

There are many versions of the story, but the basic premise is that a chicken eats lunch one day, and believes the sky is falling down because an acorn falls on her head. She decides to tell the King, and on her journey meets other animals who join her in the quest. In most retellings, the animals all have rhyming names such as Henny Penny. Finally, they come across Foxy Loxy, a fox who offers the chicken and her friends his help.

After this point, there are many endings. In the most famous one, Foxy Loxy eats the chicken's friends, but the last one, usually Cocky Lockey, survives enough to warn the chicken and she escapes. Other endings include Foxy eating them all; the characters being saved by a squirrel or an owl and getting to speak to the King; the characters being saved by the King's hunting dogs; even one version in which the sky actually falls and kills Foxy Loxy.

Depending on the version, the moral changes. In the "happy ending" version, the moral is not to be a "Chicken", but to have courage. In other versions the moral is usually interpreted to mean "do not believe everything you are told". In the latter case, it could well be a cautionary political tale: The Chicken jumps to a conclusion and whips the populace into mass hysteria, which the unscrupulous fox uses to manipulate them for his own benefit.

(Wendy - are you the chicken or the fox?)

You clintonista really need to chill and dial it back a bit. Obama isn't any less destroyed as you all kept hoping Wright would destroy him. I understand your need to push this issue hard because frankly what else do you have. But your hysterical tone only goes to prove just how desperate you are. This story doesn't have legs. And frankly I have to ask if you think things are going so well for your side why are you so angry? Shouldn't your tone be one of celebration since you think you now have the upper hand. All I read from you people is rage and contempt. Hardly a winning attitude.

Chelsea just had three very successful events in Eugene, Corvallis, and Portland.

I like it when the candidate adult children appear on behalf of their parent. I think it gives us insights into the parts of the candidate we rarely see.

I don't think the election has been lost, Wendy! (re your 12:44 a post)

Although: are you conceding that Obama is going to be the eventual nominee? If so, that is a welcome change of tune. Thank you there.

Do you honestly think Obama hates white people? That's an odd statement to have made.

Believe it or not, Wendy!, white people live in Illinois. (Frankly, they live in most US states.) And white people elected Obama. Does your state have an African American (OK, biracial) US senator? Who's in his '40s and got there without being a multimillionaire?

I see the frantic folks on this blog and it ain't the Obama people, once again.

Do you ever really think about Dexter's posts? He says Obama analyzed the problem correctly.

Hillary and surrogates can spin and spin this all week, but truth might just be its own defense here.

"Obama hates me?"

No Warren...you are one of the typical white people HE CAN guilt trip into voting for him

;-)

Once again, the "typical" Obama supporters will circle the wagons and defend their candidate with good old fashioned debate with well-reasoned fact-filled responses ...

Ooops! When all else fails, PERSONALLY attack ANYONE that dares to criticize Obama.

He's so different. He's going to change politics. Blah Blah Blah. Are you listening to me, you ignorant dumbass Billary supporters? What's wrong with you? Can't you see how much Obama has CHANGED every thing?

Brian...you're mistaken. I can't speak for the rest but I assure you...nothing but pur JOY coming from me!

ROFLMAO @ Obama

http://www.wildways.iway.na/blackbacked_jackals.jpg

MaxTrue:

I had been meaning to bring up a conversation about Israel-Palestine. I heard the news talking about Former President Carter's decision to meet with leaders of Hamas. Now Obama said that he sticks with the official position - that we will not meet with Hamas. But that he would not tell Carter who he could or could not meet with - since Carter is a private citizen.

The official position is that we won't talk to Hamas because their stated position is to wipe Israel off the map. I get that.

But I ask you this Max. Shouldn't someone be talking to Hamas? To try and get them to back down from that insane position. Despite what you may think of Carter - I doubt very seriously he is engouraging Hamas to maintain that position. In fact, it is very likely he is giving them the counter-argument - or at least trying to change the subject to issues that people can agree on.

So while I see why it is important for the US to take a hard line officially - I think it is also important for powerful US leaders to work the back channels to get rid of the ignorance on which the position of Hamas is based.

(I haven't seen Carter on "This Week" yet - but I will watch it later and there will probably be more to discuss).

Wendy:

You overestimate the power guilt has on my actions.

(For better or worse, "shame' is not an emotion I often feel....)

Jack:

Wher do you get the homemade tamales? Oh man, where?

Patsi: Spot on girl on our 12:22 post.
t's not the Democrats who'll do him in -- it's the indies and Repubs in the general. He's unelectable. And you will have given Bush a third term.
\
You have to get new computer, Jack's U tube postings are top drawer..

Julie :-)

Warren, there is still time to beat McCain. All Obama has to do is to drop out and support Hillary. Now if Hillary does that, she will hand the election to McCain, so it should seem clear to you why Hillary stays in and why Obama should exit.

Of course, Obama would rather lose to McCain than have Hillary win. Given these last weeks, only a fool would still claim he will win those Red States and take the Blue ones only a Hillary can win. Since this was what Hillary supporters claimed from the start, knowing what is unfolding now would happen, who has better judgment? The candidate that ran knowing the holes in his story, or the one that knew she had the record and machine to win?

What these weeks have done was to show Obama, all by himself and his record, PROVE why he won't win. His tired rhetoric has become stale. He can't free style talking without shooting himself, he can't handle anger or bitterness and his story and spin is largely contrived fabrication. He hasn't even encountered the Republican Thresher Machine.

So blame GOD DAMN Hillary...LOL That was your third strike, but according to Obama rules, you have as many strikes as you want until the voters decide in November.

This is one Jew who is happy with Jimmy Carters efforts!

So, which story will MoJo lead with tomorrow-Hillary duck hunting or Barry's bitter comments?

GAKaren:

He is different:

Let's not forget we are talking about this story for two reasons. Obama (1) stated a "bitter truth" and then (2) apologized if the way in which his comments were taken out of context has offended anyone.

Truth and sincerity - not very politically correct - but the right thing to do nonetheless.

Old politics:

Caught telling a flat out lie (told several times). HRC backs off her statement - only when video evidence is produced to confirm that what she said was untrue. At that time, instead of making a heartfelt apology - the Clinton camp uses the "excuse" that she is tired. (Of course Bill Clinton went so far as to tell more "lies" to cover up the original "lie".)

And then more dirt about the other candidate gets thrown out there in order to change the news cycle.

Obama represents a change for the better. Clinton - is more of the same old politics....

Brian:

Make that one and a half Jews!!!

(My dad's side is Jewish.)

I also have great respect for President Carter. Recently, I saw a wonderful documentary about him which revealed just how dedicated and principled he is.

While I don't agree with him 100% of the time, I never question his motives.

It is unfortunate that the Bush administration has shown so little respect for President Carter.

"Obama (1) stated a "bitter truth""

Warren thinks anyone that won't vote for Obama a gun loving bigots too.

"are"

"I'm sure Keith Olbermann will have a special comment on Monday night to explain how Hillary used mind-control to trap Obama."

ROFL. True.

I'm going to do some campaign work. It will be nice to get away from a lot of the nonsense being posted today.

Warren, you don't get it. Hamas was desperate because they had no money. The people were starving and weary. Had Egypt and others been tighter with their embargoes and Iran was not allowed to funnel in money, the Palestinians would have rejected Hamas. Encouragment and money/arms keeps this struggle going. Forcing Hamas is what Abbas was working towards. If Abbas can't negotiate with Hamas and get them to moderate their views, NO ONE CAN.

Hamas HAS been offered money and recognition if they accept the State of Israel. Carter isn't going to make them change their minds nor did Carter convince Sadat either. The Israelis convinced Sadat and Carter was the bridge. Obama gives hope to the terrorists in so far as they see that he will talk and retreat. That is, AQ and Iran are telling Hamas to pick up the fight so, the US is retreating and Hamas fires more rockets. Two were just caught trying to poison Israeli food supplies. So while Egypt says enough and refuses to let Hamas tear down the border fence again, Carter goes to talk to Hamas in Syria. What will he say that hasn't been said? He simply gives a signal that the Obama administration does not really mean what it says and will talk to Hamas. This is a blow to Obama and underscores his Zbig/Malley connection. With Pro-Hamas articles in Trinity newsletters and the issue of Auchi and Khalidi just warming up for Republican attack, this mess points to the reason Obama will be in worse shape next month than he is today.

Whoever said the indies would abandon Obama in the general: I do not think so. Not if he keeps being the voice of cool sanity and reason and wanting to bring Americans together to solve the problems that face us.

He gets that problems do not automatically have a purely Democratic or Republican solution. After seeing what Clinton has unloaded on Obama, do you think the Republicans are going to want to work with her?

I hope some animal or fowl does not lose its life this week because Hillary has got to prove that she's down with hunters.

(PS: I have attempted to shoot skeet. They were unmenaced by my efforts.

Shooting is a great sport; hunting is great too if done humanely -- shoot well enough to kill, not wound -- and the ducks or deer or whatever are eaten. Culling the herd -- to prevent deer overpopulation, etc. -- is fine too. Killing just to kill? That does not seem very sportsmanlike.)

S