Trouble in Beantown! MA 2013 Senate Race - Markey up by Only 4 Points over Gomez – Michelle Obama to Boston for Markey Fundraiser on May 29th

Markey (left) and Gomez (right) - image AP via Politico

Ed Markey, the long-serving Democrat Congressman from the Massachusetts 5th District, is up against some narrow odds against newcomer, GOP candidate, Gabriel Gomez. A national poll from PPP (which is a Democrat leaning pollster), has Markey and Gomez only 4 percentage points apart – with a margin of error of 2.5%.

Gomez is starting out as a pretty popular candidate, with 41% of voters rating him favorably to 27% with an unfavorable opinion. Beyond having good numbers with Republicans he's at 42/24 with independents, and actually seen narrowly positively even by Democrats at 33/32. Voters meanwhile are more divided on Markey, with 44% holding a positive view of him to 41% with a negative one. He's at 31/50 with independents.

For a Republican to be competitive in Massachusetts they need to win independents by a hefty margin and get a fair amount of crossover support from Democrats, and right now Gomez is doing both of those things. He's up 47/31 with independents and winning over 21% of Democratic voters. Both those numbers suggest that some folks who supported Stephen Lynch in the primary are being a little reticent about supporting Markey in the general.

(PPP)

The pollster goes on to note that the good news for Markey is that Obama is very popular in Massachusetts. However, that did not work out so well for Martha Coakley who ran against Scott Brown in the 2010 special election.

Coakley was considered to have made mistakes, gaffes such as being unable to name a sports team; however, one might also point to the fact that in yet another high profile race, Markey is nowhere near the 15 point lead that Coakley had out of the gate. Coakley was known statewide, while Brown was little known. In this instance, Gomez had been working the state in person for months, as well in advertising buys introducing himself during the primary, to households throughout Massachusetts. Markey on the other hand, is not that well known, and his advertising amounted to little more than Al Gore like claims and the usual pro-choice messaging. Social issues are not a pivotal issue in this particular race, as Gomez is the candidate the Democrats wish they had.

Gomez is young, Hispanic, smart, successful and a former Navy Seal – compared to Markey, who looks like a great-grandfather of NARAL.

How much trouble is Markey in? Given the popularity of Obama in Massachusetts, the Boston Globe is reporting thatMichelle Obama will be headlining a fundraiser for Markey on the 29th of May – the ticket is priced at $37,600. The Globe goes on to note that the White House is prepared to do anything to help Markey – a reliable progressive voice in the Congress. The problem with Markey is he won by a margin of 58 to 43 percent.(Boston Globe) which sounds like a solid Democrat lead, however, those Lynch Democrats, and the Republican’s, and Independent's that voted for Lynch as a Blue Dog Democrat, will, in all likelihood, end up in the Gomez column.(See PPP Poll for Verification.)

Again, as a reminder, Obama personally came to Massachusetts to campaign for Martha Coakley in 2010, and that did not work out as well as expected. (Politico) That may necessary again, considering the circumstances – Gomez is not Scott Brown, he is extremely aggressive, out of the gate, with in-state and out-of-state ground troops that came in during the primaries. Brown did have ground troops, but that came weeks before the special election. There isn’t justification to compare Brown to Gomez (yet, so many articles in the news are dubbing Gomez, the next Scott Brown), they are in no wise similar, the only link is that they both are – Republican’s in Massachusetts, and Gomez is, of all things, an Hispanic Republican.

While Markey represents everything that is wrong is Washington – the status quo.

The only attributes that would make Gomez even more dangerous to the Democrats – if he were a woman and African American, making him a representative of the three “guaranteed Democrat voting blocs”, but one, being Hispanic is dangerous enough. What next? With Texas Senator, Ted Cruz, making a dent in the Democrat “owned” demographic,

Democrat heavyweight William Blaine "Bill" Richardson III has openly questioned the legitimacy of Texas Senator Ted Cruz's Latino heritage based solely on the Texas senator's politics

(On ABC This Week – Richardson stated :)

"I don’t think he should be defined as a Hispanic. He’s a politician from Texas, a conservative state...."

(examiner.com)

Perhaps Richardson ill need to make a trip to Massachusetts with Michelle Obama to remind the base that Gomez isn’t really Hispanic, he’s a Conservative….

Of course, as the progressives try and paint Gomez as “Tea Party”, which is laughable, they may indeed attempt to lump Gomez, with Cruz, Rubio, Martinez – all Hispanic Republican’s – who, despite some Tea Party support for the later three, those Hispanics that are conservative are no different than anyone else who finds that defending their political points of view, comes with labels, some of which have overtones of racism. Democrats (national) for all their party of inclusion hype, are starting to sound a lot like the narrative one hears about the counter-party – racist, angry old white men.

Obama State of the Union February 2013– Loaded with Ideas – Some Good Points – Bigger Government – Lackluster event –and the Wealth and the Fashion – America on Display

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The First Lady, Michelle Obama, stunning hair, stunning dress - image CBS News



President Obama delivered his first State of the Union address for the beginning of his second term. A Complete transcript is available at www.npr.org.

There was general applause throughout the speech, not over much, but surprisingly bi-partisan, specifically as the President hit on several sound ideas, two in particular stood out: immigration reform and decreasing the tax rate on manufactures that return to the U.S. and create jobs. However, he opted to blame “big business” for making massive profits, prior to announcing an end to loopholes for more tax reform which, in essence is a tax increase. For some larger businesses, that may be an incentive to move elsewhere – or return to manufacturing in Mexico, etc. An across the board simplified reform of the tax code would be more beneficial to most Americans, as some of the loopholes that are subject to close are mortgage interest deductions and the ability to deduct interest on student loans.

Immigration reform, which is way overdue, was spelled out in terms that would please anyone – fix the borders, put actual boots on the ground (perhaps U.S. Military that is due back from Afghanistan and could be kept on the payroll, rather than unemployed, while keeping human and drug trafficking down on our southern borders), given those here illegally an opportunity to become a citizen, but having them go to the back of the line, giving preference to those who have legally gone through the process, and finally overhauling or simplifying the legal immigration process (which is extremely costly, requires thousands of dollars for lawyers, testing and fees) – the president mentioned speeding up the process, however, a lowering of the fees involved and a realistic test that an 8th grade student could pass, would accomplish a deterrent to illegal immigration and increase the line for legal immigration). Overall, in his plan for immigration reform, including an English only segment, the President sounded less progressive and more conservative in his approach.

The balance of his programs, however, required “investments” in infrastructure and education. Investments, as anyone knows, are taxes and or outlay by the government. The fact that the initial stimulus was to put millions to work on construction projects fixing roads and bridges, somehow contradicts the 2013 call for billions to be spend on repairing those same bridges. There are several in Massachusetts that have been in the “construction” stage, for more than 2 years, part of the original stimulus. One can imagine if there are two in one small Western Massachusetts cities, how many more would be languishing half finished across the nation, based on the original spend.

He spoke about how these programs would not add to the deficit. Unless he is anticipating a rather large haul through closing loopholes one has only one recourse, and that is to take on additional debt. However, if he pushes through a low tax rate on manufactures, which will increase the workforce, he will be generating revenue through additional private enterprise.

The education cooperatives were somewhat bothersome, as they involved schools in cooperation with government and businesses. A student comes through high school, with skills and a two year college degree, and is hired by the company which partners with the government and the school. It sounds like a win-win – however, in his remarks he also signaled that more people cannot afford higher education, and therefore, this is an alternative. The President did go father suggesting colleges should cut back on tuition rates, which would give everyone an opportunity to save and go to college. Perhaps he is aware of Texas Govenor Rick Perry’s plan that called for state University and Colleges to produce a 4 year degree, tuition and books included, for $10,000. Perry’s plan succeeded as colleges and universities took up the challenge.

The president does have a great sense of humor, but somehow, when he joked, there was little response, and he is funny. Thus the lackluster response. Overall, it was a good speech, challenging both parties to work together to get things done, and laying the responsibility on Congress (and because they are his ideas and plans, a leader takes the responsibility as well (note to the President), and Congress should act, on several of these programs suggested by the President there is enough bases on his address, to get the job done.

In watching State of the Union deliveries in the past, political junkies watch C-Span, as those attending are ushered in, and nothing beats the sound of the Sergeant of Arms introducing the President, which is generally followed by 5 to 10 minutes of continuous applause. Perhaps speaking of the improving economy, and the need to be realistic about college spending, and specifically more reforms, was a sobering message in a room, in a City, that has the most wealth of any in the United States, and is, consequently growing in leaps and bounds – based on nothing more than tax dollars and lobbyist.

They are the self-styled and media and academia heralded “elite” of our society. A Society in which no one man or woman is more “elite” than the next and we all, every citizen, from the least to the greatest, has the opportunity to reach for the moon or fall just as far. It is a bubble in Washington, where out-of-touch of the city limits, one imagines a different America.

Finally, on gun control, the president introduced the grieving parents of the 15 year old girls shot in a park not far from the President’s home. There was former congresswoman, Gabriel Gifford’s, as well as others who had experienced the heartbreak of finding a loved-one murdered. Yet, the focus was on the legal gun owners, and restrictions that are similar to those in Massachusetts. (Criminal background checks for one, which makes sense – and the inability to sell firearms to criminals –the first thought was “Fast and Furious”. What most American’s understand is that there is too much violence in this nation, whether it is with a gun, or beating someone to death, or using a machete, a golf club, a tire-iron – there will always be crimes of passion. The crimes though, that are so prevalent are gang related for the most part, and those guns used, are hardly legally purchased. Additionally, on those who have committed mass murders, such as Newton, Colorado, Virginia Tech, at el, the perpetrator(s) were on medication for mental illness. In every single incident. What this tells us is that reform in the mental health field is more important to prevent mass murder than gun control. Reform such as mandatory visits with one’s psychiatrist to monitor prescription use. As of now, some drugs can be obtained, depending upon the state, at a physician’s office, with no follow-up.

The President now has three years, and a very ambitious agenda, if can accomplish two of the many, he would make great strides and up his political capital, and capital in general on the talk circuit. The two that seem most likely are immigration reform and cutting the corporate tax rate. That said he will have to really push both Congress, and the irascible Harry Reid in the Senate, to get the job done on any of the proposed. I like what our President had to say in party, and in part, not so much (the bigger government at no cost is something that defies math). Therefore, to reach this moderate conservative poetical junkie, he did a good job, however if one in the center right approves, does the base?

Check the Huffington Postfor that side of the response. Marco Rubio delivered the rebuttal. According to Forbes - Senator Rubio delivered an “Impressive Response to Obama's State of the Union Address” Rubio can speak, and he is passionate about the nation and as a conservative and Cuban-American, he is the poster boy for immigration. He agreed with the President, especially on immigration, and delved into two areas of disgreement, more government and the ability to pay for larger programs. He made sense. Yet, he was roundly criticized for taking a break to sip some water during his speech (Slate andCBSNews (difference- very little). That fact alone puts Rubio in contention for 2016. If all the mainstream and left media could find to fault Rubio’s first Republican response to the State of the Unions was in need to take a sip of water during the speech, and said placement of the bottle factored into the this, then Rubio may be squeaky clean for 2016.

Right now, however the focus should be on getting those programs through, again, with bi-partisan work, and knowing, as the President said, not everyone one each side of the aisle will be happy, as they have to give a little to get a little – he may also be speaking of himself, as he has to sign the final bill.

Finally, as a woman, and one who likes fashion, at any age, and specifically when one puts their own spin on their look, it amazes, that those viewing the fair, First Lady, Michelle Obama, and not loving her bangs, are simply out of any loop. She is an extremely attractive woman, who dresses appropriately at such events, and looked less stunning, more age appropriate, and extremely well groomed. One thing American’s do enjoy is a “First Lady” We can at the least be kind, or in cases honest, rather than throwing back partisan critiques on hairstyle and dress. P.S. I love Hillary Clinton in a high placed ponytail too. Instant facelift, defines features, and softens the face, all at the sometime. I missed seeing Clinton at this State of the Union, instead seeing the former Senator from Massachusetts, John F. Kerry in her stead. Not quite as inspiring.

Michelle Obama – Gorgeous, Love the Dress! – Speech and tone – We were Watching Republicans?!

First Lady Michelle Obama, looking stunning, takes the stage, one can find fault with the policy of the President but his choice of running mate (emphasis on the later word) brilliant- image justjared.com.

Michelle Obama, the nation’s first lady, did the nation proud last night, wearing stunning dress that made heads turn as she gracefully walked to the podium and began her version of “trust my husband”. The full text of the first lady’s speech is available here at the Politico In listening to the words, it was about family, the import of the father, the import of the unit as a whole, the fact that people must work hard to achieve, the fact that parents except the next generation to do better so they sacrifice. Barack and the first date, the fact that her children are the central part, and how much she loves her husband, trust him.

The differences between the two women and the two speeches?

Ann Romney wore a different dress, more toned downed and age appropriate.
She basically followed the same pattern, my life, Mitt’s life, love my husband, trust Mitt.

Michelle brought up abortion, and the parties firm stance that women deserve them.
She also brought up gay marriage.

(Those items not on the RNC Platform)

Otherwise, it’s as if they road into prime time, to blame Mitt and to look an awful lot just the crowd we saw just last week.

But the delivery and the messaging was a far cry from the earlier messaging of the DNC - where the earlier message was “we are all under the control of the government and we love it!! (ok, that’s not a direct quote but watch the video here from YouTube – “We All Belong to the Government featuring large, melting ice sculpture of President Obama

No Kidding - now this is entertainment!

First Lady Michelle Obama Draws a “Dozen” to “Hundreds” of supporters In Springfield, MA – the Bluest City in the Bluest State

Springfield Residents Wait outside the Basketball Hall of Fame to catch a glimpse of the First Lady Michelle Obama - image WAMC.org

It is not often that a notable politician or U.S. Dignitary visits Western Massachustts for a political fundraiser, or rally, or event at one of the dozens of colleges and universities in the area. Springfield, which is the largest city in Western Massachustts, rarely is offered the opportunity to stand out, and line the streets to rally support or conversely “protest”, the appearance of a “notable”. According to the U.S. Census Bureau (2010) The City of Springfield is the largest city in Western Massachusetts, with 152,000 residents of which 22.3% are African American, and 38.8% are Hispanic or Latino, making Springfield the most diverse City in Western Massachusetts. . It is also has the largest voting bloc of registered Democrats. According to the Massachusetts Secretary of State’s Website Of the 91,780 registered voters in Springfield, 47,780 are registered Democrats.
Therefore the news accounts today of Michelle Obama’s visit to Springfield, even if it was only for a fundraiser, are mind-boggling:

From Mass Live (Springfield Republican)

A motorcade brought the first lady into the basement garage of the Hall of Fame. She was then to be brought to the MassMutual Room, where the fundraiser event was underway…
A number of people appeared to be just hanging around the Hall of Fame complex to try to get a look at Obama…
Onlookers, however, got no glimpse of the first lady. Her motorcade, preceded by state police motorcycles, was all business as it pulled into the front entrance of the Hall of Fame’s parking lot and down into the underground garage….

From WGGB (ABC /Fox)First Lady’s Stop to Springfield Brought a Big Crowd

Michelle Obama made a stop on Friday to the Basketball Hall of Fame to support her husband’s re-election campaign.
Hundreds gathered outside hoping to meet her because the last time a first lady came to this side of the Bay State was in 1994 when Hilary Clinton came to speak at Springfield College, so for people in the Pioneer Valley, this was an opportunity that doesn’t come often.
“I’m proud to be an Obama support and happy to be able to see Michelle Obama today,” said Nancy Tener of Newton.
Unfortunately, not everyone got that opportunity. The only one’s who did were the people who paid $1,000 for lunch or $2,500 for lunch and a photo.

(Note Newton is located approximately, 82 miles east of Springfield)

Finally, the big crowd reported by WGGB, according toMass Live, the Springfield Republican, was a “dozen” onlookers.

What one has is a visit by the First Lady, Michelle Obama, to a region of the Bluest State, with a population that is predominately Democrat, to raise funds for her husband, President Obama’s reelection campaign. This took place, in a State where the President’s, competition, Mitt Romney, not only resided, but was the Govenor. Additionally to all polls taken by the local Universities, the President should consider MA a fairly safe bet for reelection. Additionally with over 12% of the City officially unemployed, and the close proximity to major enclaves of Democrats from Holyoke to Northampton and beyond into the Hills – it begs the question: Why weren’t there thousands of people lining the streets to waive at the First Lady’s car as she arrived? The First Lady – a pretty big deal if one is a Democrat, Independent or none of the aforementioned.

A little background on visitors to Springfield or the area of note:

The last political notable to visit the City was former First Lady, Hillary Clinton, in 2008 as a then candidate Clinton who Clinton drew capacity crowds in Springfield, where 5,000 people turned out to hear her speak at Springfield College.. In fact, it was impossible to get near the event, as the traffic leading to the College was impossible a half hour before the event (blogger personal experience).

Heads of State, Religious Leaders: The Dalai Lama visited Northampton in 2007 where he drew a crowd similar in scope to Hillary Clinton (5,000) (Sun Journal Lewiston/Auburn)

The Press: The first notice came from Mass Live on on July 10, 2012 Channel 22, the local NBC Affiliate, also announced the visit, noting that a rare event would draw large crowds. On July 19 and July 20th, the Local CBS Affiliate mentioned the visit as the City of Springfield was fixing potholes ahead of the First Lady’s visit. On July 31st the ABC/Fox Affiliate announced that the “First Lady’s Visit was Just Days Away”, Mass Live announced the preparations for the First Ladies Visit on August 1st On August 2nd the NBC Affiliate offered a “First Lady Traffic Advisory” there may have been more, however, this is based on Google News results.

Or perhaps the lack of crowds was a result of the timing of the work day. That said, surely the Teachers Unions, retirees, and those who work Second Shifts make up a large enough percentage of the population to muster more than dozen supporters? – given the 47,000 registered Democrats in Springfield alone (and the import from Newton).

Or perhaps it is the lack of voter enthusiasm – or lack of enthusiasm due to high unemployment, or the traffic advisory, or the fact that, perhaps, just perhaps, the State of Massachustts is not quite as “blue” as the pollsters, pundits predict. Hypothetically, (based on those aforementioned polls), even if there are more Romney supporters in Massachusetts, coupled with less enthusiastic Democrats, the fact that a notable, someone as notable as the First Lady, Michelle Obama, visited and merely a dozen or even reports of “hundred” showed to rally or stand on the sides of streets. It is a missed opportunity for the Obama Campaign and a missed opportunity for the MA Democrat Party, that in an election year they did little to no advance work to pull crowds in the thousands in honor of the First Lady of the United States of America.

Final Local News Coverage

Video on visit by CBS Affiliate

CBS 3 Springfield - WSHM

Michelle Obama Campaigns in MA at $2500 ticket events – Richard Neal (D-MA1) Running Unopposed - Asking for Cash to Defend Against Republicans?

The Very Elegant, First Lady Michelle Obama, will help her Husband, the President, in Western Massachusetts Fundraisers - image christiancameleon.blogspot

Welcome to Massachusetts, the Bluest State, where one might think that there are so many Democrats, why bother to campaign here – unless of course, the incumbents June FEC filings were lacking compared to the Opponent – who just happens to be from Massachusetts.

In August, the First Lady, Michelle Obama, will make a swing through Western Massachusetts – not on the stump for the President, although one might think that she would be well-received, at any event, and draw crowds despite her political affiliation – however, she is coming to the wilds of Massachusetts (any place east of Boston), to fill the President’s re-election campaign coffers – hoping to catch on Mitt Romney, the Republican who is currently hauling in cash from donors rich, poor and in the middle (one must read the total FEC filing report to understand that the majority of Mitt Romney’s contributions reported in June were not, as reported, from “rich friends”, rather from individuals, in smaller amounts, in zip codes representing all ethnicities, in every state of the union. The Obama Campaigns report was not as “rich” or revealing for that matter. With the economy to consider, donations are hard to come by, for non-profits, let alone politicians, therefore, one must make a pilgrimage to a place one feels might be more open to putting up the cash one needs to fund a campaign successfully. (For information on the FEC reports for June, visit www.tinahemond.com/2012/07)

The Springfield Mass Republican through their website Masslive is reporting that the First Lady, Michelle Obama, will attend a $2500 per person event at the Springfield Basketball Hall of Fame, followed by a trip to the Berkshires and an event with James Taylor, again at the same cost per ticket, followed by one last fundraiser at Governor Duval Patrick’s ”retreat” in the Berkshires, again to meet, greet and fund raise – In Massachusetts.

Those most likely to attend the event: politicians and supporters from not only Western Mass, but one would hazard to guess, nearby states such as Vermont, New York and Connecticut. Springfield, MA is centered in such a way as to be easily accessible to most major metropolitan hubs in the Northeast, and should one need to come from further afield, Bradley International Airport is only a half-hour’s drive south of the City of Homes.

That said one will have to wait until the August reports are made available to see how well the First Lady did in the State most dedicated to her husband’s 2008 rival, Hillary Clinton. August FEC filings will be available in September.

One of Obama’s largest supporters in the area, Congressman Richard Neal (D-MA1) – appears to have the need to raise some capital for his campaign the “Republicans”, of course, he is running unopposed if, and only if, he can make it through the September primary. It is a fairly safe bet that he will come out unscathed, to go onto the ballot in November – with no opposition. A fundraiser was sent out via email yesterday subject line: From Stockbridge to Southbridge: (Text of email)

July 10, 2012

Dear Friends,



Hi, I'm Congressman Richie Neal. For nearly a year, I have been traveling the new First Congressional District visiting with supporters and meeting new friends. From Stockbridge to Southbridge, I have been listening to the concerns of people like you, and sharing my views on issues that are important to our region.

I have no better friend than retiring Congressman John Olver, who has glowingly endorsed my candidacy for reelection. John and I have partnered for 20 years to provide leadership to western Massachusetts
I share the same core Democratic values as you: preserving and protecting Social Security and Medicare, making health care more accessible and affordable, growing our economy through investment in education - which includes lowering student loans, and creating jobs right here in western and central Massachusetts.

I am proud to stand with President Obama as we passed the landmark Affordable Care Act and succeeded in providing affordable and accessible health care to millions of uninsured, ended the practice of companies denying coverage based on preexisting conditions, added a safety net so families do not go bankrupt because of medical bills, allowed young adults to remain on parents' health insurance, and offered preventative care services for women's health.

While there were not many of us, I voted against the war in Iraq and took to the floor of the House of Representatives to speak against our invasion. Over a career, I can say this is the best vote I ever cast. With our troops home from Iraq and as we wind down our presence in Afghanistan, we need to start investing in America again.

If you are committed to maintaining Medicare and Social Security, support programs that allow hard working men and women like you and me to have a chance to succeed, and are against draconian spending cuts proposed by Republicans than I ask for you to join my grassroots campaign.

You can help in a variety of ways; going door to door in your neighborhood, participating in phone banks, writing Dear Friend cards, and putting a sign on your lawn or a sticker on your car. Our organization spans each of the five counties and 87 communities of the new First Congressional District. I invite you to check out my website, Facebook, and follow me on Twitter to stay updated. Let's continue to communicate throughout the campaign and see you on the trail!

-Richie


Congressman Neal
Richard Neal for Congress

Therefore, he is asking for help to fight Republican’s while he must first fight Democrats to retain his seat – which – considering that he ran opposed in the last election – and had to part with some of his “war chest”, to retain his seat, it makes sense that the man who had the most money in Congress in 2010 (and was begged by the Democratic Leadership to please aid those in states where Democrats were under siege by those rascally Tea Party Candidates and their Republican Counterparts (who took 60 seats in the 2010 election)-was unwilling or unable to “share the wealth” so to speak.

One finds that entrenched, and by entrenched, those who have “served” the public as an elected official since 1988 – a “career” in public service one might note, normally do not find themselves out begging for campaign cash, especially in supposed heavily politically simpatico areas.

Some factors (or observations) that may enter into play:

Perhaps Massachusetts, not unlike the balance of the nation, is short on cash – individual donors, giving $3, $5, $10 and so on, are in the category where they are living on fixed incomes – and are sending cash to those who they truly believe will keep the nation secure, or, as a Congressional Representative, promote the values they hold dear while in Washington. (See Romney by zip code FEC Filings June to understand the power of the individual donation.) Therefore, the usual larger donations may have become smaller in these hard economic times.

Perhaps, just perhaps, Massachusetts is not as Blue as one would believe, given the fact that the majority of the constituents in the state are – unenrolled, unaffiliated, independent, non-party people, who may lean one way or the other, depending upon who’s available on the ballot. This, in the case of Massachusetts history, generally offers the occasional Republican Governor (Weld, Celluci, Swift, Romney – in most recent memory), and the occasional State Legislator or Senator (Scott Brown comes to mind). This does not happen with the unerolled alone, nor the 12% of the state electorate that describes itself as “Republican” rather, crossovers from, using a more modern-day term, “blue dog democrats”. Go figure.

Therefore, although Obama’s approval rating in Massachusetts, (according to Gallup) is still over 50% - with 9 other states, the balance being under 50% approval – it will be interesting to see, given the margin of error, if those 50% that do not approve of the President, will vote for the former Governor. It is not, given the Commonwealth’s history, out of the question.

The race for cash, however, in the Bay State, in this particular location, is interesting to say the least – in Neal’s case, one understands he faces a primary opponent, and that the redistricting has made the opponents job a tad easier, however, Neal still controls the population centers East of the Berkshires and West of Worcester. The First Lady, on her fundraising trip to the Hills, will most likely see donors coming from local Western MA politico’s and members of academia, as well as reinforcements from other states that are just close enough to make the trip.

The last President to visit and not fund raise was Bill Clinton in 1995, he came to Worcester to sign an Education Bill with Ted Kennedy – the streets were lined for miles with people hoping to get a glimpse of the sitting President (Worcester Telegram and Gazette). Then First Lady, Hillary Clinton, received the same reception when she visited the Bay State in 1996, with a mantra from the crowded Boston Streets”Hail to Hillary” (Boston Globe)

Understanding that First Lady Michelle Obama is her working for her husband’s reelection campaign, and not officially to visit with the “masses”, it would be interesting to compare the greeting she might receive from the ordinary Massachusetts citizen, vis a vis, the Clinton’s – that would be indicative of popularity and the way that Massachusetts may vote in the General Election.

President Obama and Wife – Not Invited to British Royal Wedding - French Prime Minister and Wife Are!

Michelle Obama Greets the Queen: image Ask.com How to Greet The Queen of England

Via CNN Blog Only: The invitation list for the wedding between Prince William of the United Kingdom and his fiancé Kate Middleton, does not include the President of the United States and his wife, Michelle, this according to the British Press, “The Daily Mail”. The question raised by CNN: Is this a snub?

The Huffington Post is not counting out an invitation to the Royal Affair: “Obama Not Invited to Royal Wedding? Not So Fast!” alluding to the possibility that the Daily Mail may have gotten the story wrong.

However, one has to recall, as most of the Britt’s due, the lack of protocol shown by the Obama’s in their many visits outside of the U.S. and specifically on British Soil – from the gifts, to the gaffes, the Obama’s were tabloid fodder.

One other “royal wedding” that made headlines due to the Obama’s absence: (MSNBC): “Obama not invited to Chelsea Clinton's wedding”

One must keep in mind that weddings are for the family and those who are considered close friends and or subjects (as in the case of the U.K.). Therefore, the Obama’s off the guest list, is not totally inappropriate. That said, the guest list is said to most likely include French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife Carla Bruni. Indeed, the U.S. is being shown a different level of respect overseas.

Obama Allegedly Follows in Clinton’s Footsteps – Vera Baker Named as Presidential Mistress

Photograph of Vera Baker, Obama's Alleged Mistress - image Pakistan News

Fromthe National Enquirer comes breaking news of an affair between President Obama and one of his campaign staffers, Vera Baker. This breaking news story so far contains more innuendo than fact, however, as it is coming from the one publication that broke the John Edwards mistress scandal, it is more probable than improbable there is something afoot. The Enquirer, had been considered one of the most egregious “rags” when it came to photo-shopping celebrities in compromising situations, with tales of so ridiculous, that lawsuits were brought and the paper, as it stood, was on the brink of extinction. In order to survive, they needed to get the facts, and all the facts, in order to avoid any further expensive lawsuits. Therefore, due to the nature of the publication, the history of the publication and the fact that they broke and were tenacious in their discovery of John Edwards’s mistress, one has to give this story some thought.

Michelle Obama, one either adores her, or dismisses her; but she is the focus of the White House, whether it is fashion magazines, newscasts or blogs who look to what she wears, where she is going and how much influence she has over her husband, the President. Therefore, as all eyes are on Michelle, no matter the circumstances, one could not help but notice that on the Occasion of the State of the Union, Mrs. Obama appeared quite peeved at the President. Two clips shown below show an expression that screams “Trouble in River City”. The first, when the President acknowledges his wife, and the second, footage from the first segment of the speech where on occasion, the camera would linger for a minute on the First Lady. She appeared to be in a foul temper, and one noticed that she was not taped for the remainder of the speech. Now, to be fair, she could have been mad at her husband over any given domestic and or policy issue, which is more than likely the case. That said it could, in essence, lend the casual observer who recalls the speech and circumstances, incentive to believe that the Enquirer does indeed have something on the man.

Who is Vera Baker? The Pakistan News Service is giving insight into her relationship with the president. They were the first to publish both a photograph along with specifics about the alleged mistress. She is stunning and has known the President for several years. Ms. Baker has been involved with Barack Obama since 2004, as Finance Director for his Illinois Senate Campaign. She holds a degree from Mills College. After the campaign, she started a business, Cape Caribbean, with offices in Miami.

Is there an affair? Only time will tell, however, one can bet the house, if there is an ounce of truth to the story, the Enquirer will come up with each and every piece of evidence. Looking back at the less than thrilled Michelle Obama in the tapes from the State of the Union, one hopes that someone in the West Wing has 911 on speed dial. She does not appear to be the meek and humble, nor forgiving type.

Obama Acknowledges Michelle Obama in State of the Union Address


Part 1, State of Union Address

Hacking Palin's Emails to Michelle Obama’s insults - Democrat Meltdown 2008

How low will the Obama campaign and the DNC go to try to salvage their election chances? Apparently – right to the bottom or beyond. Sarah Palin’s personal email was hacked this week and the prime “person of interest” is David Kernell, the 20 year old son of a Tennessee Democrat State Rep. It figures. Michelle Obama, speaking in front of a crowd of 600 women, in an attempt to close the gap that Obama never had, asked constituents “to make their choice on the issues, not because, "I like that guy" or, "she's cute."”. Ms. Obama, was of course, preaching to the choir, yet quickly inserted “I’m talking about me.” These two instances are of course, ridiculous in that, the hacker only proved the desperation of the left and the popularity of Sarah Palin with the media and the base. The media, because any tidbit, including what her dog ate for breakfast, would be breaking news, and the base, because they are ever watchful for yet another insult, for some reason – sexism – they are paying attention to every utterance. If Ms. Obama finds Palin “too cute” to vote for, well, so be it, and that would include her audience. The problem with her statement was that she also told her fans not to vote because “I like that guy”, which is the only reason someone would vote for her husband.

Several notable defections to the McCain camp were revealed earlier in the week: Donald Trump a former Hillary Clinton Supporter, has endorsed McCain, and more startling “top Clinton fundraiser and member of the Democratic National Committee's Platform Committee Lynn Forester de Rothschild endorsed Republican presidential nominee John McCain on Wednesday.” What gives?

What one has to understand is that although the race may be tight, the left may have reached a rather disturbing conclusion: The basic make-up of the great divide between right and left has not changed. The Republican Base and those Independents that voted for George Bush in the last election, will undoubtedly vote for McCain in this election, with one exception, and that is the base numbers. The Republican base is more energized over Sarah Palin than it could possibly muster over Dick Cheney; and the numbers are daunting. The Democrats can rely on the Move-on.org core of supporters as well as those union endorsements, and rank and file who have voted for any D on a ballot since they cast their first vote. Although Obama did attract record crowds at large arena’s during the primary that was well before any mention of dubious associations, or insults from the candidate himself when behind closed doors in San Francisco (clutching guns and bibles), were heard. Where are the throngs now? At a recent Obama stop in Manchester, New Hampshire which is a hop; skip and a jump from Boston, MA, huge crowds of 8,000 attendees were reported. 8,000 attendees – for a candidate for change in the New Hampshire/Massachusetts area is, in effect, “chump change”.

Should there be a late October surprise to add to Obama’s woes, and there is no reason to believe that this cannot occur; (unsubstantiated rumors are circulating) considering there is so little the public knows about Obama compared to the lower rung of the Republican Ticket, then those crowds that were 80,000 then 8,000 will just fade away. Should that surprise come out of the State of New York, then it was foretold during the primary, yet few paid attention to Robert Novak back in 2007. Will it matter? No. The dye is cast.

Recap - the bottom line - most voters have made up their minds and by increasing attacks on Palin, the Republican base is more determined and solidified, and those independents that recognize irrational behavior, are most likely going to choose Palin over Obama – while the left goes into therapy yet again. Deja Vu - 2004 all over again - this time the lead on the Republican side will be greater, and that is due to one factor and one factor only – the left has managed to irritate a mighty big base.

Michelle Obama and Marie Antoinette - Cake and $600 Earrngs

There are few, if any, articles in the media about a remark Michelle Obama, wife of Barack Obama, presidential candidate (D)made in Pontiac Michigan last Wednesday. Ms. Obama, in an address covered by the Oakland Press, noted that a $600 stimulus check was not enough to buy a pair of earrings. (Paraphrasing) Her comment serves to highlight the differences between the “haves” and have-nots” in this country and the total disconnect that is apparent between the elites and the rest of us. It is also worth noting that a candidate must have a tremendous financial advantage to succeed in an election leaving the ‘common man” out of the political arena. Therefore, in an absurd world it makes sense that a woman who has a significant private income thinks little of spending her cash on earrings – marking the remark - trivial. On the other hand, the lack of coverage on this particular utterance, in an age where every word spoken by a candidate and his or her “surrogates” is analyzed ad nausea, is certainly of concern. The simple fact is: Michelle Obama, is not just a “surrogate”. Should Obama be elected, Michelle will be a First Lady - affecting policy and representing the nation. One is reminded of an historical quote made by Marie Antoinette, the pampered Austrian Princess who lost her head in the French Revolution. The poor girl merely said, “Let them eat cake!” - This in reference to starving French masses, resulting in quite uproar. The princess, not unlike Michelle Obama, had a lack of understanding when it came to the “commoners”.

Denouncing Political Cartoons – Ideological Suppression Leads to Fascism.

The uproar over the political cartoon on the cover of the New Yorker, depicting Michelle and Barack Obama, is simply ridiculous. After all, this is just a cartoon. The immediate denouncement of the editorial cartoon by both political camps and the media serves as a warning bell to those career lampoonists who may be tempted to express themselves in the future. Further it serves to suppress freedom of speech (The Fist Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America) as it specifically applies to one political party. The intent of the satirical New Yorker cover is to emphasis the manner in which the Obamas may be wrongly characterized by those of opposing political ideology and the cover is in concert with two articles within the same publications that praise or defend Obama. Some pundits went so far as to suggest that this cartoon would be perceived as factual by the “average man” in the street. This is absurd and elitist – highlighting the manner in which those who feel they may be of superior intellect perceive the “masses”.

A perusal of the editorial cartoons at Cagle.com, highlights the disparity of the outcry in relationship to what may or may not be viewed as politically correct. A cartoon by Nate Beeler of the Washington Examiner (Best College Cartoonist of the Year) implying that the Pope approves of pedophilia, raised no eyebrows. There was no outcry, denouncement or endless analysis of this piece, or many others published en masse, worldwide, daily.

One is immediately reminded of the fallout over a cartoon published in the Danish Press. (Brussels Journal) in October of 2005. The cartoons lampooned the prophet Mohammed, resulting in death threats against the cartoonist. The world press, including some in the United States, found those cartoons “offensive” and “racist”. Obviously there is a difference between denouncing a cartoon and a Jihad – that said, when was the last time a political cartoon lampooning Islam was published? The message is clear – be careful what you write, be careful not to offend – dependent upon the target. – Fascism.

Mike Huckabee joins Cindy McCain on Trip to Rwanda, Michelle Obama travels to Access Hollywood

The AP has reported that Cindy McCain, wife of John McCain, and Mike Huckabee will join a bi-partisan group traveling to Rwanda this week. The group is looking at how U.S. aid to the region has helped improve conditions and what more can be done to fight global poverty. Former Democrat Senator Tom Daschle and Bill Frist, Republican, from Tennessee, are leading the delegation for ONE campaign, an organization that educates political leaders on the issues relating to the worlds poor. Cindy McCain has long been an advocate for the poor, founding AMVT in 1988, and working with organizations such as CARE, Operation Smile and HALO. (Baltimore Sun) She also traveled to Kosovo (April), and Vietnam , giving the American voters insight into what she might bring to the White House as well as the nation. Mike Huckabee, who has traveled extensively on similar trips, is a natural to accompany McCain.

The McCains and the Huckabees

Michelle Obama

Meanwhile, Michelle Obama, wife of Barack Obama has been traveling around the country in support of her husband, making a stop at Access Hollywood. The media has reported endlessly on Michele Obama’s exploits, no matter how trivial and unimportant they may be. In partisan fashion, and in an age where feminism is in peril (exhibit A: Hillary Clinton), the most frivolous receive the most press, while the most qualified and most serious are denigrated to page 32, if given any press at all.

The question then arises: “Where are the strong women who represent our country and who would best be suited to address the needs of women?” Two immediately come to mind: one is gritting her teeth and moving forward to lend a hand to an opponent who insured that his wife receive a “make-over” in order to appeal to those pesky independent voters, the other is on her way to Rwanda.

Michele Obama "refined"

Democrat National Committee – Googling for Cindy McCain? - Do as We Say - Not as We Do.

DNC looking for Dirt on McCain Snapshot of Tracking Software Log

One would think that after all the calls to leave Michelle Obama, alone, that the party promoting change would offer the same courtesy to Cindy McCain – not so. Apparently the DNC is googling for anything that will denigrate the McCain’s, specifically photographs. Meanwhile, the Obama campaign (or DNC), is attempting image control – going so far as to openly discriminate against Muslim’s to make it happen article AP News. At a recent rally in Michigan, women wearing headscarves were removed from camera view. The party of unity and inclusion? Barack Obama, the young political hack from Chicago, has a lot of nerve calling for change and unity.

Campaigns are supposed to get dirty, and of course, that is anticipated, regardless of which party is looking for dirt on an opponent, the “dirt” that they find, and how that particular dirt is spun to make an opponent or in the case of this years election, one opponents spouse, look bad. What is patently ridiculous is that one party, with the full backing of the press, is suggesting that Michelle Obama is untouchable. Further, the Democrat campaign with her husbands permission, are turning her into a Stepford wife to insure that she remains photo friendly.

Michelle Obama – Makeover Madness

The New York Times is introducing the New, improved Michelle Obama (from the Gawker, NY) today. Apparently, women are subject to makeovers, especially when their husbands are in a spotlight position, specifically when that position is within the ranks of the Democrat party. The makeover should come as no surprise. Hillary Clinton’s campaign coverage focused not on her policy, rather what she wore, how she spoke, her makeup, her hair style, ad nausea. The question is: how long are women going to allow themselves to be made over in order to complement a man? With no sympathy from this particular quarter for Ms. Obama, it still rankles that as a woman, she is expected to toe the line, not be herself, but be a version of a woman that completes some absurd notion of feminism written by a party that is also supposed to be for women. The concept that the Democrats are friendly towards the gender is patently absurd. With only one issue on the platform that deals with women at all, it is amazing that the party still maintains a large percentage of women within its ranks. These ladies need to understand that pro-choice can have another meaning, and that is a choice to take their business elsewhere and vote against a party that promotes re-defining women to fit a particular mold.