Press Decries Gender Gap in GOP Leadership with Murkowski’s Primary Loss – Looking to the Future – Fiorina, McMahon, Ayotte and Angle

From Politico: a new article entitled: “Senate GOP's new gender” speaks to the primary loss of Alaska’s Linda Murkowski (R-AK), as if she were the last capable woman in the GOP in the Senate. It was the leadership role that Murkowski had in the Senate, that the author at Politico is apparently mourning, and the fact that Collins (R-ME) or Snow (R-ME), or Hutchinson (R-TX) are the only three GOP women left to choose from.

Apparently, it’s the standard GOP equals old white men cry of Progressives that is understood in the context of this article. One must say – it is a tad too early to project the makeup of the Senate as of November 3, 2010, but one can bet that there will be several qualified women joining Snow, Collins and Hutchinson.

The author goes on to speak of the gap between the two political parties, noting that the Democrats have twelve women to choose from, including Barbara Boxer – which said numbers may be lower as of the 3rd. The implication: Democrats field more women candidates, which is, in itself, not exactly true.

An honest assessment of the women who are poised to take Senate Seats, also includes several who are more than capable of assuming leadership roles, not least among them, Carly Fiorina (R-CA) who is now leading Barbara Boxer in the polls (See Real Clear Politics) In addition, one has to pay close attention for former business executive Linda McMahon (R-CT) who is closing a huge gap between her opponent, Richard Blumenthal, who is not without baggage. Although there are no September polls posted, it would appear likely that McMahon will have gained another point or two in the past month – and that this race will be tight, but winnable for the GOP.

In New Hampshire, one finds Kelly Ayotte with a lead against Democrat Paul Hodes and finally, one has to seriously look at the Nevada race, where Harry Reid after pouring millions into the Nevada sand is still struggling to gain traction against Tea Party/Republican candidate Susan Angle. Polls from August show them at a statistical dead heat.

Therefore, the real story is that there are more women running for Senate on the GOP ticket and that, as a feminist, is heartening to say the least. The fact that a woman runs, and loses is no shame either; it is that competence and gender do not go hand in hand. From this perspective, a vote based on gender without concern to qualifications is no better or worse than a vote based on ethnicity or race, for the same reasons. That said, it sure is heartening to see these women, conservative women, running successful campaigns against entrenched men (for the most part – exception: Boxer).
One has to wonder how well Politico will handle the ensuing presidential contest for 2012, where odds are not out of the question that Sarah Palin will face Hillary Clinton (not Barak Obama) for the Presidency.

Courtesy of Breitbart TV, the first Hillary for President 2012 advertisement. How many democrats feel that had the choice of Super Delegates been different, their party would not be faced with the massive losses this November, and the nation, as a whole, would be in better shape? Of course, at this point, it is all supposition, but nothing pleases more than a progressive pundit (female at that), being forced to choose between the most Progressive President this nation has seen, and a Centrist Democrat and former Goldwater Girl come the primaries of 2012. One has to recall the venom these same journalists who scream disparity for women, used to push their own Hillary Clinton under the bus, in order to elect Barak Obama.

2010 Control of the Senate - Review Shows GOP within Striking Distance of Taking Both Houses

Politicois suggesting that the fate of the Democrats control of the Senate rests with three Democrats: Feingold (D-WI), Boxer(D-CA) and Murray (D-WA). The premise of the Politico article is that it was thought highly unlikely that the aforementioned would be in any real “danger” of losing a seat held since 1992, the year Bill Clinton was elected. Incidentally, that election preceded the 1994 Republican landslide which saw the GOP take control of both houses.

At that time, the pollsters reviewing the Generic Ballot (a measurement based on a hypothetical choice between the two major political parties), especially Gallup, gave the Republicans a a 5 point lead over their Democrat counterparts. In 2006, the Democrats led by 7 points and today, the GOP leads by an historical 10 points, which is a high point for the party in the history of Gallup polling.

Out of those three chosen by Politico as being on the proverbial chopping block, it is realistic that one, perhaps two will be retired come November: Boxer (D-CA) and Feingold (D-WI).
Statistically, the lead for the GOP may come from other states, currently considered “Leans Democrat”. If one reviews the polls at Real Clear Politics one finds a map that currently shows: Democrats: 44 Safe or not up for reelection versus Republican: 34 safe or not up for reelection, with those states deemed either safe Democrat or safe Republican by the pollsters, pushing the totals to 48 Democrat and 44 Republicans.

It is, according to Real Clear Politics, the Tossups (8) that will determine which party eventually has 51 seats and Control of the Senate. The Toss-Ups are Boxer (D-CA), Bennet (D-CO), Florida (Open-R), Illinois (Open-D), Nevada (Reid-D), Ohio (Open-R), Murray (D-WA), and Fiengold (D-WI). However, it is still early in the game, being August and of those seats at this point, one can realistically see the following play out: Boxer, Bennet, Ohio, and Florida will be leans Republican within the month as will Illinois, Nevada will remain a Toss Up, as will Feingold and Murray.

Open seats are those where no incumbent of either party is running in an election year and Toss-ups are called by a statistical tie in the polls. Real Clear Politics uses a combination of all polls taken in any given race to determine an average. Pollsters include the Daily Kos (leans left) as well as Rasmussen (said to lean right). This blogs preferred pollster is the left leaning Public Policy Polling simply because it leans left, however, has had more accurate outcomes when it comes down to the final stages of a given race. As with all polls, there is plenty of room for error and bias, however, when margins go over 5 points, one can feel fairly safe betting on the outcome based on this pollster.

Polls, therefore, are the political junkie’s version of Reality TV.

There is a poll at Real Clear Politics that currently leans Democrat, which should be moving into the “Toss-up” or Leans Republican column shortly and that is the CT Race between McMahon(R) and Blumenthal (D). Blumenthal had a 34 point lead over Republican Linda McMahon pre-primary, which one post primary poll shows the lead reduced to 7 points, the last poll was taken August 11th.

Therefore, it may not be Patty Murray that tips the balance for the GOP or Russ Feingold for that matter, but an Open CT seat which suddenly turns to the right in early September. At present, states shown as Leans Democrat, have yet to hold primaries (due Sept. 14th), including New York, where Gillibrand holds a 19 to 23 point lead over the three Republican Contenders, comparing New York to Connecticut, where the political landscape is similar, one should watch that race once the primary closes, and the margins begin to tighten.

Based on the above, the GOP stands a better than average chance of picking off the 51 seats needed to take control of the Senate. The story will continue to unfold and tighter polling data should become available 3 weeks out (or 1st Week of October) which will be truly indicative of which party will triumph in 2010. Until then, speculation is base on the polls and unfortunately past state voting trends. With this election, that should not be factored, given the angst against incumbents that has crossed party lines. (See AK, Murkowski)

A Side Note on personal perspectives.
As there are primaries in Massachusetts on the 14th of September, and having gone door to door for a Congressional Candidate, the objective being to introduce the candidate to both Republicans and Independents in an approx. 8 block area that was predominately Democrat. In the process of knocking on doors, the Democrats visited were most enthusiastic – took the literature, and asked in-depth questions about the Candidate. What is telling in this small cross section is that the candidate is a Republican. It may be one small section in one medium sized city, in a blue state, where the “straw that broke the camel’s back” has many Democrats, either committed to or considering voting for a Republican for the first (second in some cases see: Scott Brown), a Republican. As Massachusetts is considered “safe democrat” on all seats, with the exception of the 10th (toss-up), it will be interesting to see if enough interest is generated amongst pollsters after the primary on the 14th to even begin polling – those polls will be indicative of what will happen to those Senate Seats in play. It would go to the general “mood” of the electorate by Party. Also, if one has never gone door to door, it is an eye opening experience as to the number of people who are actually paying attention to what is going on in the political theater.

MA 4th District Congressional Candidate, Sean Bielat, Get’s Boost from Conservative Pundit Michelle Malkin – Implications for Massachusetts

Fox News Commentator, Best Selling Author and Conservative Political Pundit, Michelle Malkin, recently weighed in on a Massachustts Congressional Race – the Race for the 4th District against incumbent Barney Frank. Yesterday, Ms. Malkin put the following post up on her website, Michellemalkin.com: Boot Barney Frank: Support GOP challenger Sean Bielat”

In most election years, Conservative Republicans from Massachusetts, have had to fight tooth and nail to even get notice in the local paper, let alone national media – Ms. Malkin’s decision to highlight Mr. Beilat speaks to the understanding by those outside of the Commonwealth of Massachustts that incumbent Democrats are extremely vulnerable and finally, supporting Massachusetts candidates is not a “waste of time or treasure”.

Mr. Beilat, a marine, family man, and perhaps most critical to his electability, a former Democrat who had recently decided enough was enough, not only switched parties, but moved into Barney Frank’s district to run for Congress. Mr. Bielat has had a long history with Congress, dating back to his days as a Congressional Page. He comes from a long-line of Democrats, and in all likelihood, did not make the decision to change political affiliation easily. It is, with those who have family members of that particular political affiliation, who are treated as somewhat “treasonous” if one deviates from the chosen family ideology. That said, Mr. Beilat’s background as a former Democrat will, undoubtedly, appeal to those 4th district Democrats and Independents who lean Democrat, and are thinking: “Where’s the candidate we can vote for and identify with? – Other than Barney Frank?”

Now they know – which makes the 4th District Race extremely interesting, and Ms. Malkin’s support essential as it will garner much needed cash to wage the final battle against a deeply entrenched Barney Frank.

Other races that are of interest that should be receiving national exposure in Massachusetts are:

The Hampden second, Richard Neal’s District: Dr. Jay Fleitman and Mr. Tom Wesley will square off in the September 14th Primary. Although it is obvious that this blog endorses Dr. Flietman (for reasons previously stated here), the race for the Hampden 2nd is perhaps more imperative than the 4th district, and therefore, its candidates, both accomplished, deserve recognition as they go forward in their battle against Charles’ Rangel’s chosen successor: Congressman Richard Neal. How much trouble is Neal in? Bill Clinton is allegedly coming in to bail him out. Past President visiting this neck of the woods (Western Massachusetts) for any reason are rarities.

Other districts deserving of national interest: The MA 3, the MA 5, the MA6, and the MA 10th. There are six districts in the Commonwealth that offer the nation competitive races. Therefore, a Thank you Michelle Malkin, for highlighting a Massachusetts Candidate as viable, and here’s hoping like-minded pundits will do the same for the other races, specifically the Hampden 2nd, where Richard Neal is slated for retirement.

More on Dr. Jay Fleitman: Jayfleitman.com

More on Tom Wesley Tomwesley.com

Obama Iraq War Speech Perspective: LA Times Drips Sarcasm - Full Text of Address

The President’s Address on the end of U.S. Combat Forces in Iraq is being put under the proverbial microscope by mainstream media outlets – the full text courtesy of the Los Angeles Times follows. In the Times article, the sarcasm is notable with the following examples from the opening line through the end of the text :

“After becoming the first president ever not to address fellow citizens from that strangely clear desk during his first year in office, the Democrat gave his second Oval Office speech in 11 weeks”

“Obama had to mark the occasion because his entire Democratic political personna was based on opposition to the Iraq war. (Also closing Guantanamo; but that's another story.) And there are midterm elections looming Nov. 2 with polls predicting a stateside surge in Republican troops.”

“On June 15, talking about the oil spill calamity, his hands fidgeted distractingly. This time, epoxied together. Stiff back. Serious demeanor. Almost scrawny. A lecturer, not a father figure. There will be a midterm exam.”

“American presidents speak from the Oval Office for momentous events: The Russians are putting missiles in Cuba and that's gotta stop (Kennedy, 1962). I will not seek and will not accept the re-nomination of my party (Johnson, 1968). I am resigning as president (Nixon, 1974). The Challenger loss leaves us all looking to the heavens for consolation (Reagan, 1986). As I speak, American military forces are kicking ass in some foreign place (too numerous to mention).

You had a sense that Tuesday was momentous more to Obama and his Chicago crowd than anyone trying to follow him.”

One gets the gist and the full length article does not allow a sentence that is not somehow dripping with sarcasm regarding this “Democrat” s speech. (Click on highlighted text above to read the full article).

From this perspective, the text of the speech itself is lackluster, and, as noted in the Los Angeles Times, an attempt at rallying the Democrat Ground Troops more than lauding the lives lost, the accomplishments made by the untold millions of American Service members who have served this nation with pride. It was, true to form, more of a Bush bash than an address to the nation. Of particular note: The current economic woes are tied to the War debt, rather than where they truly belong, in the Democrat Controlled 2006 Congress forward housing market fiasco. In point of fact, then Senator Obama voted against legislation that would have investigated Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two loan institutions at the epicenter of the finical earthquake that shook the nation, with poor policy decisions (following the Carter economic model) putting the finishing touches on the fiasco that has become Obama’s economy.

Perhaps the President, at some point, either now, or in 2013, (while writing a memoir of his time in the Oval office), will understand that one has to own one’s own mistakes – it garners respect. Whereas his approach did nothing more than to insult the intelligence of the growing number of American’s who no longer either trust and or “believe in” this administration. He has lost more than one “golden opportunity” to unite, to heal, to reach out, and it appears that his deeply ingrained partisanship (which dates back to his short term in the Illinois State Legislature, prior to his short term as a U.S. Senator has carried over to his term as the President.)

Of course, opinions on speeches are a dime a dozen, however, the tone of the speech should have been about the Stellar performance of our American Combat forces, and the dedication of those 50,000 who are left behind as “advisors” (i.e. see Viet Nam), but instead, it was a stump speech, for the Democrat Party, using George Bush as the “red-meat – voodoo doll” so popular with the extreme left.

Full Text of the President’s Address ( courtesy of the Los Angeles Times

Good evening. Tonight, I’d like to talk to you about the end of our combat mission in Iraq, the ongoing security challenges we face, and the need to rebuild our nation here at home.

I know this historic moment comes at a time of great uncertainty for many Americans. We have now been through nearly a decade of war. We have endured a long and painful recession. And sometimes in the midst of these storms, the future that we are trying to build for our nation – a future of lasting peace and long-term prosperity may seem beyond our reach.

But this milestone should serve as a reminder to all Americans that the future is ours to shape if we move forward with confidence and commitment. It should also serve as a message to the world that the United States of America intends to sustain and strengthen our leadership in this young century.

From this desk, seven and a half years ago, President Bush announced the beginning of military operations in Iraq. Much has changed since that night. A war to disarm a state became....
...a fight against an insurgency. Terrorism and sectarian warfare threatened to tear Iraq apart. Thousands of Americans gave their lives; tens of thousands have been wounded. Our relations abroad were strained. Our unity at home was tested.

These are the rough waters encountered during the course of one of America’s longest wars. Yet there has been one constant amidst those shifting tides. At every turn, America’s men and women in uniform have served with courage and resolve. As Commander-in-Chief, I am proud of their service. Like all Americans, I am awed by their sacrifice, and by the sacrifices of their families.

The Americans who have served in Iraq completed every mission they were given. They defeated a regime that had terrorized its people. Together with Iraqis and coalition partners who made huge sacrifices of their own, our troops fought block by block to help Iraq seize the chance for a better future. They shifted tactics to protect the Iraqi people; trained Iraqi Security Forces; and took out terrorist leaders. Because of our troops and civilians –and because of the resilience of the Iraqi people – Iraq has the opportunity to embrace a new destiny, even though many challenges remain.

So tonight, I am announcing that the American combat mission in Iraq has ended. Operation Iraqi Freedom is over, and the Iraqi people now have lead responsibility for the security of their country.

This was my pledge to the American people as a candidate for this office. Last February, I announced a plan that would bring our combat brigades out of Iraq, while redoubling our efforts to strengthen Iraq’s Security Forces and support its government and people. That is what we have done. We have removed nearly 100,000 U.S. troops from Iraq. We have closed or transferred hundreds of bases to the Iraqis. And we have moved millions of pieces of equipment out of Iraq.

This completes a transition to Iraqi responsibility for their own security. U.S. troops pulled out of Iraq’s cities last summer, and Iraqi forces have moved into the lead with considerable skill and commitment to their fellow citizens. Even as Iraq continues to suffer terrorist attacks, security incidents have been near the lowest on record since the war began. And Iraqi forces have taken the fight to al Qaeda, removing much of its leadership in Iraqi-led operations.

This year also saw Iraq hold credible elections that drew a strong turnout. A caretaker administration is in place as Iraqis form a government based on the results of that election. Tonight, I encourage Iraq’s leaders to move forward with a sense of urgency to form an inclusive government that is just, representative, and accountable to the Iraqi people. And when that government is in place, there should be no doubt: the Iraqi people will have a strong partner in the United States. Our combat mission is ending, but our commitment to Iraq’s future is not.

Going forward, a transitional force of U.S. troops will remain in Iraq with a different mission: advising and assisting Iraq’s Security Forces; supporting Iraqi troops in targeted counter-terrorism missions; and protecting our civilians. Consistent with our agreement with the Iraqi government, all U.S. troops will leave by the end of next year. As our military draws down, our dedicated civilians –diplomats, aid workers, and advisors –are moving into the lead to support Iraq as it strengthens its government, resolves political disputes, resettles those displaced by war, and builds ties with the region and the world. And that is a message that Vice President Biden is delivering to the Iraqi people through his visit there today.

This new approach reflects our long-term partnership with Iraq–one based upon mutual interests, and mutual respect. Of course, violence will not end with our combat mission. Extremists will continue to set off bombs, attack Iraqi civilians and try to spark sectarian strife. But ultimately, these terrorists will fail to achieve their goals. Iraqis are a proud people. They have rejected sectarian war, and they have no interest in endless destruction. They understand that, in the end, only Iraqis can resolve their differences and police their streets. Only Iraqis can build a democracy within their borders. What America can do, and will do, is provide support for the Iraqi people as both a friend and a partner.

Ending this war is not only in Iraq’s interest– it is in our own. The United States has paid a huge price to put the future of Iraq in the hands of its people. We have sent our young men and women to make enormous sacrifices in Iraq, and spent vast resources abroad at a time of tight budgets at home. We have persevered because of a belief we share with the Iraqi people –a belief that out of the ashes of war, a new beginning could be born in this cradle of civilization. Through this remarkable chapter in the history of the United States and Iraq, we have met our responsibility. Now, it is time to turn the page.

As we do, I am mindful that the Iraq War has been a contentious issue at home. Here, too, it is time to turn the page. This afternoon, I spoke to former President George W. Bush. It’s well known that he and I disagreed about the war from its outset. Yet no one could doubt President Bush’s support for our troops, or his love of country and commitment to our security. As I have said, there were patriots who supported this war, and patriots who opposed it. And all of us are united in appreciation for our servicemen and women, and our hope for Iraq’s future.

The greatness of our democracy is grounded in our ability to move beyond our differences, and to learn from our experience as we confront the many challenges ahead. And no challenge is more essential to our security than our fight against al Qaeda.

Americans across the political spectrum supported the use of force against those who attacked us on 9/11. Now, as we approach our 10th year of combat in Afghanistan, there are those who are understandably asking tough questions about our mission there. But we must never lose sight of what’s at stake. As we speak, al Qaeda continues to plot against us, and its leadership remains anchored in the border region of Afghanistan and Pakistan. We will disrupt, dismantle, and defeat al Qaeda, while preventing Afghanistan from again serving as a base for terrorists. And because of our drawdown in Iraq, we are now able to apply the resources necessary to go on offense. In fact, over the last 19 months, nearly a dozen al Qaeda leaders –and hundreds of Al Qaeda's extremist allies–have been killed or captured around the world.

Within Afghanistan, I have ordered the deployment of additional.... .... troops who–under the command of General David Petraeus –are fighting to break the Taliban’s momentum. As with the surge in Iraq, these forces will be in place for a limited time to provide space for the Afghans to build their capacity and secure their own future. But, as was the case in Iraq, we cannot do for Afghans what they must ultimately do for themselves. That’s why we are training Afghan Security Forces and supporting a political resolution to Afghanistan’s problems. And, next July, we will begin a transition to Afghan responsibility. The pace of our troop reductions will be determined by conditions on the ground, and our support for Afghanistan will endure. But make no mistake: this transition will begin – because open-ended war serves neither our interests nor the Afghan people’s.

Indeed, one of the lessons of our effort in Iraq is that American influence around the world is not a function of military force alone. We must use all elements of our power –including our diplomacy, our economic strength, and the power of America’s example –to secure our interests and stand by our allies. And we must project a vision of the future that is based not just on our fears, but also on our hopes –a vision that recognizes the real dangers that exist around the world, but also the limitless possibility of our time.

Today, old adversaries are at peace, and emerging democracies are potential partners. New markets for our goods stretch from Asia to the Americas. A new push for peace in the Middle East will begin here tomorrow. Billions of young people want to move beyond the shackles of poverty and conflict. As the leader of the free world, America will do more than just defeat on the battlefield those who offer hatred and destruction –we will also lead among those who are willing to work together to expand freedom and opportunity for all people.

That effort must begin within our own borders. Throughout our history, America has been willing to bear the burden of promoting liberty and human dignity overseas, understanding its link to our own liberty and security. But we have also understood that our nation’s strength and influence abroad must be firmly anchored in our prosperity at home. And the bedrock of that prosperity must be a growing middle class.


Unfortunately, over the last decade, we have not done what is necessary to shore up the foundation of our own prosperity. We have spent over a trillion dollars at war, often financed by borrowing from overseas. This, in turn, has short-changed investments in our own people, and contributed to record deficits. For too long, we have put off tough decisions on everything from our manufacturing base to our energy policy to education reform. As a result, too many middle class families find themselves working harder for less, while our nation’s long-term competitiveness is put at risk.

And so at this moment, as we wind down the war in Iraq, we must tackle those challenges at home with as much energy, and grit, and sense of common purpose as our men and women in uniform who have served abroad. They have met every test that they faced. Now, it is our turn. Now, it is our responsibility to honor them by coming together, all of us, and working to secure the dream that so many generations have fought for –the dream that a better life awaits anyone who is willing to work for it and reach for it.

Our most urgent task is to restore our economy, and put the millions of Americans who have lost their jobs back to work. To strengthen our middle class, we must give all our children the education they deserve, and all our workers the skills that they need to compete in a global economy. We must jumpstart industries that create jobs, and end our dependence on foreign oil. We must unleash the innovation that allows new products to roll off our assembly lines, and nurture the ideas that spring from our entrepreneurs. This will be difficult. But in the days to come, it must be our central mission as a people, and my central responsibility as President.

Part of that responsibility is making sure that we honor our commitments to those who have served our country with such valor. As long as I am President, we will maintain the finest fighting force that the world has ever known, and do whatever it takes to serve our veterans as well as they have served us. This is a sacred trust. That is why we have already made one of the largest increases in funding for veterans in decades. We are treating the signature wounds of today’s wars post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury, while providing the health care and benefits that all of our veterans have earned. And we are funding a post-9/11 GI Bill that helps our veterans and their families pursue the dream of a college education. Just as the GI Bill helped those who fought World War II- including my grandfather- become the backbone of our middle class, so today’s servicemen and women must have the chance to apply their gifts to expand the American economy. Because part of ending a war responsibly is standing by those who have fought it.

Two weeks ago, America’s final combat brigade in Iraq –the Army’s Fourth Stryker Brigade –journeyed home in the pre-dawn darkness. Thousands of soldiers and hundreds of vehicles made the trip from Baghdad, the last of them passing into Kuwait in the early morning hours. Over seven years before, American troops and coalition partners had fought their way across similar highways, but this time no shots were fired. It was just a convoy of brave Americans, making their way home.

Of course, the soldiers left much behind. Some were teenagers when the war began. Many have served multiple tours of duty, far from their families who bore a heroic burden of their own, enduring the absence of a husband’s embrace or a mother’s kiss. Most painfully, since the war began fifty-five members of the Fourth Stryker Brigade made the ultimate sacrifice –part of over 4,400 Americans who have given their lives in Iraq. As one staff sergeant said, “I know that to my brothers in arms who fought and died, this day would probably mean a lot.”

Those Americans gave their lives for the values that have lived in the hearts of our people for over two centuries. Along with nearly 1.5 million Americans who have served in Iraq, they fought in a faraway place for people they never knew. They stared into the darkest of human creations –war –and helped the Iraqi people seek the light of peace.

In an age without surrender ceremonies, we must earn victory through the success of our partners and the strength of our own nation. Every American who serves joins an unbroken line of heroes that stretches from Lexington to Gettysburg; from Iwo Jima to Inchon; from Khe Sanh to Kandahar – Americans who have fought to see that the lives of our children are better than our own. Our troops are the steel in our ship of state. And though our nation may be travelling through rough waters, they give us confidence that our course is true, and that beyond the pre-dawn darkness, better days lie ahead.

Thank you. May God bless you. And may God bless the United States of America, and all who serve her.”

A Few Headlines Which Explain Why the Nation’s Mood is shifting – Right - The Evolution of Obama Republicans

The Washington Examiner: Education Secretary Urged Staff: Go to Sharpton Rally” this as opposed to the Rally by Glen Beck on Faith which drew up to 500,000 (estimates) for day of prayer.

Oval Office Extreme Makeover ABC News opines on the "opinions" of two websites, one the notable Drudge Report, which offers headlines that are used by media outlets globally. The Drudge Report had noted that while on vacation, the President had the Oval Office redone in resplendent Glory (during hard economic times). In order to counter the Drudge Report, ABC chose Media Matters, a blog that is sponsored by socialist George Sorros, as its source. Media Matters, notes ABC, jumped to the Presidents defense and erroneously compared the two websites as “equals”.

There are too many headlines to choose from, the Down sliding, homelessness up 50% in New York City, a Democrat Congresswoman who gave up to 23 scholarships to family, and so on, however, what may take the larger piece of proverbial cake:

Obama Blames Bush Again.

That and: Hillary Clinton has turned our favorite state of Arizona over to the United Nations as – guilty of war crimes. There is no need to even opine on that – the Headline and subsequent story say quite enough. From The Arizona Republic: “Clinton's report to U.N. takes cheap shot at Arizona”

As there is no Republican President drawing Democrats to switch parties, those being called Reagean Democrats, at this time, with Democrats fleeing to either Independent and/or Republican Status, only one person can be given the honor of having precipitated the mood of the rank and file and their party shift - right - Barak Obama, therefore, Those would be "Obama Republicans" former Democrats who just can't stand one more rediculous headline.

Gallup Predicts “Unprecedented” Change in Political Landscape – Republican’s Take Historical Lead Over Democrat Counterparts in Latest Poll

Gallup released its poll on the “Generic Ballot” yesterday, showing an “Unprecedented 10-Point Lead” for the GOP. The “Generic Ballot” is a general survey which indicates how voters will choose which by Party, the candidate they prefer when at the ballot box. The Survey, which has been conducted by Gallup since 1942, is historical in the fact that Republican and Democrat gains during mid-term elections are anticipated, however, in certain years, these gains are significant; Gallup specifically notes 1994 and 2002 in their release. According to Gallup in both 1994 and 2002, years that Republicans took significant numbers of seats in both houses, the Generic Gallup had Republicans with a 5 point lead over Democrats in both of those mid-terms. In 2006, when the Democrats took control of both the House and Senate, Gallup polls in August (among other pollsters shown at pollingreport.com), gave the Democrats a 2 point lead over their Republican Counterparts in August.

Gallup is one of the most “conservative” (meaning cautious) pollsters – normally trending with smaller spreads than other pollsters on all subjects, including the Daily Presidential Tracking polls. Therefore, this particular Gallup poll is historically significant, and should November play out as predicted, the shift in the Political landscape at the Capital will signal not only a change in political parties but a rejection of the policy and legislation that has been passed by this Congress since 2006. The largest lead in Gallup history goes to the Democrat Party, which held a 32 point lead over Republicans in 1974. At that time, the mood of the country was dismal – President Nixon and Watergate dominated the news – Democrats took both Houses, and in the next election, a little known, inexperienced one term Governor from the State of Georgia, was elected to the Presidency - one Jimmy Carter. One note: these wide gaps in polls were also taken pre-1990 or prior to the “information age” – the only news outlets were traditional media: CBS, NBC, ABC and the local daily newspapers. In the 2006 and 2008 election, Democrats held the edge on new media, specifically Internet, and yet the Generic Ballot from 1994 onwards shows this election to be the only one trending “double digits”.

Included in the Gallup is a second poll on “Voter Enthusiasm”. Polls on Voter Enthusiasm give a general view of which party is likely to “get out the vote” in numbers sufficient to either take a lead and or hold onto house and Senate seats. The gap in Voter Enthusiasm is also high by percentage and it speaks to the mood of the nation overall. This poll is taken by party affiliation: Republicans are now at a 25 point lead in enthusiasm over their Democrat counterparts, which Gallup notes is a one-point lead. Gallup Conservatism).

How will this play out in November? Historically one must understand that midterms normally signal a change in the “guard” in the Congress, and sometimes in the Senate as well. Polling at Real Clear Politics, which offers a margin based on a wide range of polls taken over a period of time: The current trends indicate the following (based on this method): The Senate: Democrats 48 Safe Seats, Republicans 44 Safe Seats, with 8 seats noted as “toss-ups”, the House: 194 Democrats “Safe”, 206 Republicans “Safe” and 35 seats noted as “tossups” (Note: This includes only 1 of the 10 seats in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts- where at least 4 of the House Seats are competitive.)

Lastly, the Governors, which are perhaps more critical than both the House and Senate Polls – show the Democrats with 15 “safe”, the GOP with “26” safe and “9” States that are, at present a “Toss-up”. The Governors races are important for several reasons, not the least of which is that it is indicative of the 2012 Presidential race and which party might be favored during that year. In 2006 a total of 36 seats were in play, with Democrats taking 6 of the Governorships over the GOP.

In terms of polls, the Gallup, which has been consistent over the years, is the one to watch on the Generic Ballot in the next two months – should the Republican’s remain at 5 to 10 point lead, then it is certain that that the majority Party in the Congress will be one that has campaigned on lower taxes, fiscal responsibility and a smaller Federal Government. Victory on this magnitude on the side of the GOP, may play out in several ways, one of which would be to begin the repeal process of unpopular legislation put into play, and ensure that no further spending projects are allowed out of the House. Should the Presidency fall to the GOP in 2012, this would insure the repeal of unpopular legislation and the remaking of certain legislation to affect choices for the American Public as regards health care.

To those who would believe that the damage done to our great nation is irreparable and will take decades to undo – take heart and look to history for guidance. What has been done, can be undone by the stroke of a pen, in years, not decades. Whoever takes the executive branch in 2012 will be faced with difficult decisions, including the possibility of tax increases for a short period followed by across the board tax cuts(see Ronald Reagan), in order to quickly put the economy on the road to recovery. Those who have lived history understand that this can and will happen, those who ignore history, are doomed to repeat it (i.e. Carter vis a vis Obama).

Obama Blames “Republicans” for Muslim Image, “Super-Star President” Apparently Does Not Read Tabloids

When it comes to laying blame, the President does what he should do as head of the Democrat Party, blame the Republicans. Political Party “CEO’s” are chosen when a member of their party is not a sitting President – the President’s job (besides running the nation) is to make sure that their political party is seen in a positive light while those in opposition are cast, by this type of President, as being “against” the President, the nation, etc. Obama has brought this to new heights, specifically when criticized for what some may view as errors in judgment – or bad policy, and blames: George Bush, the “Republicans”, “Tea Party People” (mostly Republicans), and when attacks get personal, he blames: the same entities.

Recently, waiting in line at the grocery store, a headline from a tabloid screamed “Obama is a Muslim” (abridged) – and with a recent Pew Research poll noting a rise in individuals who believe that Obama is a Muslim one only need to put two plus two together to come to a startling conclusion: People read tabloids.

Gems from the National Enquirer online include:

exclusive: Obama sex perv scandal”

Michelle Obama booze binges”

Obama Marriage Crisis”

The above headlines and accompanying stories, along with 30 others in a search of that tabloids website, are all filed under “celebrity gossip”.

On faith Obama has maintained he is a Christian, and why that may be difficult for some to believe, when so many Christians are converts from other religions (and vice versa), may be summed up in the tabloids, where as a “celebrity” in the wake of a post “American Idol” 2008 election – not a political “witch-hunt” at all – merely, people read tabloids – millions of people. readership for publications like such as the Enquirer are estimated at over a million, with a paid circulation of 732,000, pass-along rates (one person reads a magazine or newspaper and “passes it along” to household members and friends – for example, each copy might have 2 additional readers (on average).

This is how rumors or “gossip” if you will, specifically regarding this president in particular are started, not for political gain; rather for public consumption in a market that craves “celebrity news”.

Is it fact or fiction? That’s where the fine line is drawn, and after one too many successful lawsuits against these types of publications, they are more careful in crafting salacious articles – A headline for example might imply that there’s big news or scandals, but the body of the article might go on to quote the second cousin, of the chef, who now lives in Timbuktu, who had heard it from the bell waiter that – (you fill in the blanks).
In other words – those that don’t go past the headline (as in those who are merely at the checkout counter, and would not buy the publication but do read the headlines (and we all do- admit it!), come away with only part of a “story”.

Who’s to blame in casting Barak Husain Obama as a Muslim? In reality, Barrack Husain Obama, when it is politically expedient to have Muslim roots (Newweek article from 2008, (abridged)” So what if he’s a Muslim?”), and when it is not- he’s a Christian who attacks conservatives “Obama: Conservative Christian leaders have hijacked faith Hartford, Conn….”) - Tt is not Republican’s attempting to “out” the president and his religious bent, nor anyone else with a grain of sanity left in this country- it is merely political expediency mixed with religion (Obama) the tabloids and the millions of star struck Americans that may be slightly confused by the mixed messages received from both the president and the tabloids.

The Republican’s (as well as those much maligned “Tea Tarty” activist” are busy doing other things, both have candidates campaigning against Democrats, they plan rallies (Glen Beck (also a Christian convert), held a rally for prayer on the Washington Mall that drew approximately 500,000 this past weekend – see videos below). The president, in a recent news interview with msnbc/nbc news noted he did not pay attention to that particular event.”

Other events he’s not apparently paying close attention to are the economy, this article from the New York Times: ”waiting for Mr. Obama” is hoping he has a plan for the economy and quickly. So do all the Democrat incumbent congressional representatives and senators who are in danger of losing their jobs in what many pundits are calling, historical proportions.

The problem when casting blame on all those “tea party” people, is that, contrary to the media perception of the tea party as a wing of the Republican party, members of the Tea Party are a mixed bunch of American’s who are mainly independent. A group who sides with either party when one party is showing more signs of sanity than the other – great going on the part of Democrats and the press in alienating these individuals because they dared to criticize or reject several of the presidents pet projects.

When Jimmy Carter left office at the request of the American people, he did not lend a hand in decimating his entire political party – rather just the nation. Obama has him trumped in that respect (the jury is out on the later only due to the fact that he does have two more years in office (give or take) before the public decides his employment status.

Yet, he focuses his attention on a non-issue of his religious affiliation - a non-issue to those who are not interested in whether the president is a Christian, a Jew, a Muslim, an atheist, or a wiccan, rather on his policy and his ability to run the country as any ceo should. A ceo of a trillion dollar business would be at the helm, leading both his political party and the nation forward, not whining to msnbc about trivial nonsense. It is what it is, when the populace elects a president (hire a ceo) with zero experience, basing their vote on good looks and hope, they get what they deserve.

It is not Obama’s fault, (and this is from one much maligned Glen Beck) it is our fault. More of “we the people” (or the majority of super delegates at the democrat convention) believed that we the people should have the option of choosing barrack Obama in 2008 over the candidate that won the popular vote – one Hillary Clinton) voted for Mr. Obama than Mr. McCain. We therefore, got what we deserved.

Fortunately, we can make up for it in 2010 and 2012 – taking heart in the fact that what has been done, can be undone (see Reagan), it may take several years, but the road to prosperity for the united states of American has always been paved with pain and hard work and yes, sacrifice, especially after we’ve chosen a rock star over someone who was – not.

Videos of the Glen Beck rally (which, as a Christian, interested in bringing the country together, perhaps Obama would have served both himself and the nation by putting in an appearance instead of politicizing something that is nothing.) inspiring specifically the speech given by Alveda King.

Alveda King Speech


Reason TV – who was at the rally


NBC compares Beck and Sharpton rally held same day


Lastly: Cspan coverage here here at www.cspan.org

Richard Neal (D-MA) Up for Re-Election 2010 – Pork Disparity – CA & Ireland Priorities in Cash Outlay

Fromthe watchdog group: Washington Watch is a list of appropriations requested by the Massachusetts Hampden 2nd Congressional Rep., Democrat Richard Neal:

Next Generation Wind Turbine
Western New England College, Springfield, MA 01119
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $1,700,000 (Requested)
Online Collaboration for Reconciliation and Democratic Citizenship
Cooperation Ireland, Inc., New York, NY 10022
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $17,175,607 (Requested)
Valley Heritage Farmers Market Program
John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission, Woonsocket, RI 02895
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $35,000 (Requested)
Phoenix House, Springfield MA, Drug Treatment Technology Enhancement Initiative
Phoenix House, Springfield, MA
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $750,000 (Requested)
Hampden County Sheriff’s Department Intergrated Re-Entry Model
Hampden County Sheriff’s Department, Ludlow, MA 01056
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $1,000,000 (Requested)
Westfield State College Law Enforcement Training Program in Southbridge, MA
Westfield State College, Westfield, MA 01086
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $400,000 (Requested)
Stop It Now Helpline Extension
Stop It Now!, Northampton, MA
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $500,000 (Requested)
A Child is Missing – Second District – Massachusetts
A Child is Missing, Inc, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $400,000 (Requested)
John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Management Plan
John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission, Woonsocket, RI 02895 (1 comment »)
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $750,000 (Requested)
The Last Green Valley
Department of the Interior, National Parks Service, Heritage Programs, Southbridge, MA 01550
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $750,000 (Requested)
Godfrey, O’Brien and Hospital Brooks Restoration Program
Town of Milford, MA, Milford, MA 01757
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $0 (Requested)
Correction of the Combined Sewer Overflows along the Connecticut River
Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, West Springfield, MA 01089
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $2,000,000 (Requested)
Life Sciences Facility and Equipment
Pioneer Valley life Sciences Institute / Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, MA 01107
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $1,000,000 (Requested)
Mercy Medical Center Emergency Room Bed Increase Project
Sisters of Providence Health System, Springfield, MA 01104
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $500,000 (Requested)
Wing Memorial Hospital CT Scanner
Wing Memorial Hospital, Palmer, MA 01069
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $1,260,000 (Requested)
Quinsigamond Community College Satellite Campus, Quinsigamond Community College
Quinsigamond Community College, Worcester, MA 01606
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $500,000 (Requested)
JFYNet Technologies of the Future: Academic Support for Career Planning for the Second Congressional District of MA
JFY Networks, Boston, MA 02108
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $400,000 (Requested)
Horizons for Homeless Children’s Playspace Programs in the Second Massachusetts Congressional District
Horizons for Homeless Children, Roxbury, MA 02119
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $94,000 (Requested)
Education for Democracy Act
The Center for Civic Education, Calabasas, CA 91302
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $35,000,000 (Requested)
Advanced Fuel Filtration System (AFF)
Warren Pumps, Warren, MA
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $3,200,000 (Requested)
High Performance Fiber Laser Gain Media
CHOTT North America, SCHOTT Finer Optics, Southbridge, MA 01550
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $4,000,000 (Requested)
HALO-360 Imagining for Submarines
Kollmorgen Electro-Optical, Northampton, MA 01060
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $2,600,000 (Requested)
Next Generation Optical Protector for Day / Night and Indoor Outdoor Operations
3M Company, St Paul, MN 55144
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $2,000,000 (Requested)
Biomass to Clean Fuel – Cellulosic Ethanol Pilot and Pretreatment
Qteros, Springfield, MA
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $2,800,000 (Requested)
Pioneer Valley Life Sciences Institute Biomedical Research
Pioneer Valley Life Sciences Institute, Springfield, MA 01107
Rep. Richard Neal (MA-2) requests $1,000,000 (Requested)

Additional information on these requests can be found at House.gov/neal/pdfs/appropsprioritiesFY2020.pdf

The requests for a University in California as well as Ireland Inc. outweigh requests for his own district.

Neal, who is of Irish Descent, takes pride in his ethnicity at the taxpayers’ expense. While supporting every tax hike measure for individuals and corporations that come down the pike, Neal insures that Ireland remains competitive.

Suggested reading: Taxing American Companies from the Heritage Foundation here

From the tax foundation: Neal’s involvement in the ATM as it applies to the middle class.

Finally, a comparison of global tax rates, which shows Ireland ranking lowest in global tax structure from the Tax foundation.

It is not that one begrudges Ireland any successes in securing corporations which leads to more tax dollars and employment for the Irish in Ireland, however, Neal’s priorities being what they are, and the fact that the Hampden 2nd is bleeding corporations, one would think that he might have been fighting harder for the people he represents rather than his favored nation. Surely there are citizens of the Hampden Second of Irish descent who would prefer the monies appropriated for projects outside the district, be put to good use at home on projects that would create jobs for the Hampden 2nd residents.

Neal, who is up for reelection in 2010, faces a very competitive challenge for the 2nd district seat. Dr. Jay Fleitman and Mr. Tom Wesley will face off in the Republican primary on September 14th. Either Dr. Fleitman or Mr. Welsey will have the privilege of running against Congressmen Neal and the voters of the 4th distinct, Democrats, Green Party, Republican and Independents have the ability, for the first time in decades, to send Mr. Neal into retirement. Perhaps he will then be able to spend more time in either Ireland or California where it is obvious his priorities lay.

Jay Fleitman for Congress
Tom Wesley.com

This blog prefers Dr. Jay Fleitman: He has sat on the Board of Health (elected) in Norhtampton, MA (think Cambridge), as a Republican and has the knowledge as a physician and business owner to address the problems facing both the district and the nation. Number one, however is his ability to appeal to both Independents as well as Democrats. This is not to say Mr. Wesley is not a good candidate, and once the "dust settles" from the primary, whichever candidate emerges should be supported by anyone with an interest in removing Richard Neal, Charles Rangel's protege from the Hampden Second Congressional District Seat.