*Updated*
We were wrong...
After searching both the MnSCU and Governor's sites yesterday, we did not come across any indications that the Governor had infact, made appointments to the MnSCU Board. We regret the error and apologize.
Three students were appointed last Friday. The community and technical college students will serve full two year terms. The technical college student position was 2 years past due for reappointment. The 4 year college student student will serve 1 year.
Best of luck to the trustee's! It will be a great experience!
Monday, June 30, 2008
Friday, June 27, 2008
Enough is enough...
The conspiracy theories are rampant over at a right wing blog. We touched on this subject earlier in the week.
Now, when we confront the distortions pushed by this right wing blog, the comments get deleted.
Now the latest distortion...
Sarvi passed over for promotion? Seriously guys, enough is enough. A good lieutenant makes Captain after about 3-4 years time in service.
As a Captain, you usually serve in an administrative role for a couple of years, typically in a staff planning role, (Assistant S-3 Operations Officer and stuff like that) get a company command for a year, and then serve in another higher profile staff position before making Major.
You make Major between 9-10 years.
Sarvi could not have been passed over for promotion to Major, he would not have met the time in service requirements to be promoted.
Junior officers leave the military all the time. It's a fact. The assault on Sarvi's military record is disgusting.
Why didn't Kline make General then? I mean come on, the guy carried the "nuclear football"! How can you carry the "nuclear football" and not make General?
Will Kline release his full military record so that we can see why he never made General?
Now, when we confront the distortions pushed by this right wing blog, the comments get deleted.
Now the latest distortion...
Marc Says: after publication. -->
June 26th, 2008 at 9:35 am
David - this is from Kline’s bio: “He retired from the Marine Corps with the rank of Colonel.”
But let’s get back to the topic at hand. The more I think about this whole situation, whether or not Sarvi has released his records from the last few years is irrelevant. What I want to see are his records from the time that he was on active duty. He doesn’t give a good explanation for why he left the service at that point, but I’d be willing to bet that Sarvi left because he was passed over for promotion. Why else would a Captain leave the service after only 5 years of duty in the pre-Clinton era?
Sarvi passed over for promotion? Seriously guys, enough is enough. A good lieutenant makes Captain after about 3-4 years time in service.
As a Captain, you usually serve in an administrative role for a couple of years, typically in a staff planning role, (Assistant S-3 Operations Officer and stuff like that) get a company command for a year, and then serve in another higher profile staff position before making Major.
You make Major between 9-10 years.
Sarvi could not have been passed over for promotion to Major, he would not have met the time in service requirements to be promoted.
Junior officers leave the military all the time. It's a fact. The assault on Sarvi's military record is disgusting.
Why didn't Kline make General then? I mean come on, the guy carried the "nuclear football"! How can you carry the "nuclear football" and not make General?
Will Kline release his full military record so that we can see why he never made General?
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
End of Quarter Push!
The end of the FEC quarter means one thing...a mad dash for cash!
Remember the record breaking caucuses this past winter. The momentum is still there!
As the parade and door knocking season is now in full swing, it's time for all of us to step forward and help our candidates in any way we can.
They can't do this without money. Coleman, Bachmann, Kline and Paulsen have significant amounts of COH at this point and we need to step up and help turn Minnesota a very dark shade of blue this November.
Steve Sarvi, Ashwin Madia, Elwyn Tinklenberg and Al Franken provide us with a strong shot at making every federal seat blue come November.
In cahoots with other progressive bloggers across the state, MnPublius, Minnesota Campaign Report, Power Liberal, Christopher Truscott, and Centrisity, we are working to raise $1000 total by the end of the quarter.
An ActBlue page has been set up to take your contributions! Any amount you provide will assist our candidates in turning Minnesota a deeper shade of blue!
Please spread this message across all lists!
Remember the record breaking caucuses this past winter. The momentum is still there!
As the parade and door knocking season is now in full swing, it's time for all of us to step forward and help our candidates in any way we can.
They can't do this without money. Coleman, Bachmann, Kline and Paulsen have significant amounts of COH at this point and we need to step up and help turn Minnesota a very dark shade of blue this November.
Steve Sarvi, Ashwin Madia, Elwyn Tinklenberg and Al Franken provide us with a strong shot at making every federal seat blue come November.
In cahoots with other progressive bloggers across the state, MnPublius, Minnesota Campaign Report, Power Liberal, Christopher Truscott, and Centrisity, we are working to raise $1000 total by the end of the quarter.
An ActBlue page has been set up to take your contributions! Any amount you provide will assist our candidates in turning Minnesota a deeper shade of blue!
Please spread this message across all lists!
Republican "Pandermania"
Pandering:
Interesting. Congressman Walz, as a 24 year military Veteran, has subject matter expertise on Veterans issues. He knows the lingo. He knows the military culture. He understands that soldiers and Veterans alike "suck it up and drive on", that they do not ask for assistance they are eligible for and deserve.
The attacks on Walz, by Republicans and right wing bloggers show their sheer desperation in CD 1.
Anyone have a few minutes to play C-SPAN's first reality TV Show? It's pretty easy really!
Pandering / Not Pandering?
In politics, pandering is the term used to portray one's views to fit in line with a certain crowd of voters the candidate is attempting to impress, when often, these are not the candidate's true beliefs. A candidate may engage in pandering out of desperation if s/he is already losing a race, or if polls taken prior to an election show others as being in the lead.Apparently some Republicans down in the Fighting First are calling Congressman Walz a "panderer" for his hard work on Veterans issues.
When he is not raking up credit card debt, Walz is pandering to veterans and
shoring up his left flank by voting against initiatives that monitor terrorist
communications.
Interesting. Congressman Walz, as a 24 year military Veteran, has subject matter expertise on Veterans issues. He knows the lingo. He knows the military culture. He understands that soldiers and Veterans alike "suck it up and drive on", that they do not ask for assistance they are eligible for and deserve.
The attacks on Walz, by Republicans and right wing bloggers show their sheer desperation in CD 1.
Anyone have a few minutes to play C-SPAN's first reality TV Show? It's pretty easy really!
Pandering / Not Pandering?
Not Pandering!
Not Pandering, just creepy!
Pandering (she voted against the bill that provided these grants)
Not pandering, again...just creepy.
Not pandering...constituent services. An actual forum!
Pandering!
We're not sure if Oda Silva has any connections to Brian Davis, other than he may be a supporter.
Pandering is sheer desperation. Davis pimping his resume citing medical school rounds at a VA hospital is pandering.
Working to pass great legislation which allows more Veterans access to their rightfully earned benefits is strong public policy.
Thanks Mr Silva! Should I ask the Walz campaign to send the contribution thank you to my place or yours?
Monday, June 23, 2008
From The Right Wing Hypocrisy Files (Update)
The line of attack for right wing bloggers has changed, and changed significantly!
Right wingers seized the "Liberate Iraq, Support Our Troops" mantra and challenged any progressive with the courage to oppose the biggest foreign policy error of our generation, Iraq.
Now, with progressive Veterans emerging to run for Congress and other elected seats, the right wing attack machine is forced to reach into the bottom of the barrel.
Check out the latest dumpster diving escapades of the right wing blogosphere!
Apparently, someone has a problem with Steve Sarvi being an Active Duty Captain, but coming back years later into the National Guard as a Sergeant. They hint that Sarvi must have done something wrong to go from a junior officer rank to a non-commissioned officer rank.
National Guard units are "staffed" in a much different fashion than most outside of the military think. One's "MTOE" will only allow for a specific amount of soldiers and equipment. When I left active duty in 2001, I needed a MTOE slot in Mechanized Infantry for an 11M30J3(Mechanized Infantry Staff Sergeant Bradley Master Gunner). Minnesota had no openings for me then, although I could have taken a Sergeant position somewhere, Moorhead I believe.
I knew officers that got out during the Clinton years and joined the 20th Special Forces Group in Florida. They ended up as enlisted folks as well. It's really not a big deal. Hell, in my eyes, moving from a tanker Captain to an Infantryman Sergeant is a helluva promotion!
Lets be clear here, IF an Active Duty Captain gets "busted" as the right wing bloggers assert, there is no chance that soldier comes back into a National Guard tour and makes Sergeant First Class. Promotion boards look at that stuff. You don't make SFC with baggage.
While these ridiculous accusations are easy to get fired up about, it's the right wing blogger assertion that Sergeant's don't lead.
Well Mr Ecker, Colonel Kline was led too. You see, the military has a pretty easy rank structure, where everyone is "led". You always have someone to answer to.
As a Sergeant, one is leads a team of soldiers, 4-5 men. As a Staff Sergeant, one typically leads a 8-10 man squad. As a Sergeant First Class, you lead a 25-35 man platoon.
Mr Ecker, Sergeants lead and they lead from the front, everyday. We spend countless hours working with our soldiers on gunnery training, basic infantry drills and tactics, and live in close proximity to them. The best Colonels I knew had the utmost respect for the Sergeants in their unit. Sergeants are the "Backbone of the Army" and despite what Ecker thinks, most military minded individuals get that.
While carrying the "nuclear football" is surely a position of honor, it falls short the right wing authors own definition of a leadership position.
Regardless, attacking Sarvi on his military record is a treacherous path for the right wing bloggers to take. I respect Congressman Kline for his service to our nation, but completely disagree with his voting record on Veterans issues and Iraq.
When can we call into question the patriotism of the right wing bloggers who attack the service record of a distinguished Iraq Veteran?
(Update): Dave Mindeman at mnpACT! has a post up about this as well.
Right wingers seized the "Liberate Iraq, Support Our Troops" mantra and challenged any progressive with the courage to oppose the biggest foreign policy error of our generation, Iraq.
Now, with progressive Veterans emerging to run for Congress and other elected seats, the right wing attack machine is forced to reach into the bottom of the barrel.
Check out the latest dumpster diving escapades of the right wing blogosphere!
Apparently, someone has a problem with Steve Sarvi being an Active Duty Captain, but coming back years later into the National Guard as a Sergeant. They hint that Sarvi must have done something wrong to go from a junior officer rank to a non-commissioned officer rank.
National Guard units are "staffed" in a much different fashion than most outside of the military think. One's "MTOE" will only allow for a specific amount of soldiers and equipment. When I left active duty in 2001, I needed a MTOE slot in Mechanized Infantry for an 11M30J3(Mechanized Infantry Staff Sergeant Bradley Master Gunner). Minnesota had no openings for me then, although I could have taken a Sergeant position somewhere, Moorhead I believe.
I knew officers that got out during the Clinton years and joined the 20th Special Forces Group in Florida. They ended up as enlisted folks as well. It's really not a big deal. Hell, in my eyes, moving from a tanker Captain to an Infantryman Sergeant is a helluva promotion!
Lets be clear here, IF an Active Duty Captain gets "busted" as the right wing bloggers assert, there is no chance that soldier comes back into a National Guard tour and makes Sergeant First Class. Promotion boards look at that stuff. You don't make SFC with baggage.
While these ridiculous accusations are easy to get fired up about, it's the right wing blogger assertion that Sergeant's don't lead.
Sarvi is trying to use his supposed leadership in the military against Kline. However, unlike Sarvi, Kline continued to be promoted and continued to lead. Sarvi on the other hand gave up his leadership position and instead picked a position where is led. A true leader doesn’t typically like to be led.
Sure there are legitimate reasons for the above situation, but given that the supposed reason for it keeps changing, it’s hard to trust Sarvi’s word. One would imagine that if he released his military service records, it would set aside many questions. I don’t think that is an unreasonable request since he’s chosen to make himself a very public figure, running for public office on his military service.
Or else we just have to take his rather questionable word that a Sergeant is a better leader than a full-bird Colonel.
Well Mr Ecker, Colonel Kline was led too. You see, the military has a pretty easy rank structure, where everyone is "led". You always have someone to answer to.
As a Sergeant, one is leads a team of soldiers, 4-5 men. As a Staff Sergeant, one typically leads a 8-10 man squad. As a Sergeant First Class, you lead a 25-35 man platoon.
Mr Ecker, Sergeants lead and they lead from the front, everyday. We spend countless hours working with our soldiers on gunnery training, basic infantry drills and tactics, and live in close proximity to them. The best Colonels I knew had the utmost respect for the Sergeants in their unit. Sergeants are the "Backbone of the Army" and despite what Ecker thinks, most military minded individuals get that.
While carrying the "nuclear football" is surely a position of honor, it falls short the right wing authors own definition of a leadership position.
Regardless, attacking Sarvi on his military record is a treacherous path for the right wing bloggers to take. I respect Congressman Kline for his service to our nation, but completely disagree with his voting record on Veterans issues and Iraq.
When can we call into question the patriotism of the right wing bloggers who attack the service record of a distinguished Iraq Veteran?
(Update): Dave Mindeman at mnpACT! has a post up about this as well.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
A Nice Little Saturday Planned
Starting early with a round of golf, shot pretty well...
Meeker DFL meeting, which went well...
Off to wedding gift registration. Who knew it was so frickin tough, 3 hours in a Target...wow, lots of stuff.
Dinner with my parents, which is always nice...
Now drinks and mini golf with Bluewoman and her sister...
Maybe a Tootsies appearance for Big Buck Hunter, don't know if we'll have enough time...
Meeker DFL meeting, which went well...
Off to wedding gift registration. Who knew it was so frickin tough, 3 hours in a Target...wow, lots of stuff.
Dinner with my parents, which is always nice...
Now drinks and mini golf with Bluewoman and her sister...
Maybe a Tootsies appearance for Big Buck Hunter, don't know if we'll have enough time...
Friday, June 20, 2008
Erik Paulsen on Immigration
Ah yes...don't talk about Iraq, don't even acknowledge it on your website. But apparently, Paulsen has a great answer on immigration.
Several right wing bloggers parroted a recent Rothenberg report on candidates.
Lake Minnetonka Liberty has a post up, "Just in case you missed it".
Looks like we all missed it, much like Paulsen's Iraq policy.
Maybe MDE can get us the scoop?
After he goes CSI on Norm Coleman video and several year old parade photos...
Several right wing bloggers parroted a recent Rothenberg report on candidates.
His response to a question on immigration policy was the single best answer that I have ever received -- and I've certainly asked the same question to at least 100 other candidates.While the excitement ran through the right wing blogosphere, no one can actually cite what Paulsen says about immigration.
Lake Minnetonka Liberty has a post up, "Just in case you missed it".
Looks like we all missed it, much like Paulsen's Iraq policy.
Maybe MDE can get us the scoop?
After he goes CSI on Norm Coleman video and several year old parade photos...
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Coleman v. Franken: The Ads
The first ads from Coleman and Franken (post endorsement)are pretty good.
Norm Coleman's second ad is good as well.
My only question, asked by colleagues at MnPublius and MnBlue as well, where was Laurie Coleman during this shoot? Was it taken in two places and edited together? What about the wedding ring shot 10 secs in?
Coleman has at least started the 08 cycle in similar fashion to Mark Kennedy. Family/home oriented videos.
How soon til the nasty stuff comes out?
Norm Coleman's second ad is good as well.
My only question, asked by colleagues at MnPublius and MnBlue as well, where was Laurie Coleman during this shoot? Was it taken in two places and edited together? What about the wedding ring shot 10 secs in?
Coleman has at least started the 08 cycle in similar fashion to Mark Kennedy. Family/home oriented videos.
How soon til the nasty stuff comes out?
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Dan Severson Apparently Enjoys Racist Videos
Political Muse broke this story.
On the "family & fun page" of all places! You'd think, maybe it could be a Valleyfair video, or fishing and hunting.
Boy were we wrong...
Imagine the right wing outrage if Al Franken posted a similar video on his site!
On the "family & fun page" of all places! You'd think, maybe it could be a Valleyfair video, or fishing and hunting.
Boy were we wrong...
Imagine the right wing outrage if Al Franken posted a similar video on his site!
Dean Urdahl Is Vulnerable
Contrary to what Representative Dean Urdahl believes, he is vulnerable in the upcoming fall elections.
Word on the street is that Rep Urdahl has been saying "Democrats are scared to run against him" and that "no one is running against him because he does such a great job".
As a friend of mine put it, "no one in the minority does a good job".
Urdahl held a "forum" recently in Annandale. Because only 4 people showed up, Urdahl suggests that people are satisfied.
Or, could it be that it was a very nice weekend and no one wanted to spend time with an elected leader difficult to trust? I was in Fargo last weekend, but I hear that it was beautiful down here last weekend.
Let's be clear here.
A. Democrats are not scared of Dean Urdahl.
Urdahl, in Bachmann like fashion, loses his hometown of Grove City every election. They know him best. Meeker County has turned "blue" as well. They vote for Democrats and Urdahl has lost Meeker County as well. Wright County saves Dean Urdahl every election. If people in Wright County knew Urdahl like the people in Grove City, he'd be off to an early retirement, that's for sure.
As Yoda would say...Dean Urdahl, we fear not.
B. Rep Urdahl is not doing a good job.
One example, constituent outreach. Urdahl in the majority issued 69 press releases over the last 2 years of his term in the majority.
His first term in the minority? 16
While in the minority, Urdahl was known as a moderate Republican. I lobbied Dean on many occasions and I found him to be a fairly moderate guy. Once he moved into the minority though, something changed. Perhaps it was being in close proximity to the Emmers, Paulsens, Seiferts and such, but Urdahl in the minority has become less and less moderate.
Or maybe his moderate label wasn't earned, but merely bestowed upon him.
Some key Urdahl votes
Troubling to me are Urdahl's votes for stadiums for both the Twins and Gophers but against key issues like renewable energy standards, health care, and an Iron Range miner cancer study.
His transportation record is nothing to be proud of either.
Recall that during the 06 cycle, Urdahl stated at a Litchfield forum that he would support a gas tax increase. He voted for an increase, and only after his party reigned him in, he voted to sustain the Governor's veto, voting against the transportation interests in the area.
County Commissioners were not pleased at all with Representative Urdahl. He played politics again, put his own aspirations before the people of the district.
Word on the street was that Urdahl was told by the Meeker County Republicans that if he supported the gas tax increase, they would not endorse him this year.
So, instead of voting for his constituents, he chose the easy way out.
He continued his loyalty this session and after the "Override six" were dismissed from caucus leadership positions, Urdahl seized the reigns of one of his fallen comrades. While he stated he was disappointed in what had happened, real political courage would have been exemplified by standing up for/with the "Override six" BEFORE they were effectively fired by their party.
I'd love to take a shot at running against Rep Urdahl. I'm confident I'd beat him. If some personal family issues were not in play right now, Urdahl wouldn't be as arrogant as he is right now. It would be one helluva race!
Truth be told, Urdahl is a lot more vulnerable than he believes. A strong grass roots effort with a hard working candidate would put Urdahl on the defensive real quick. He survived a few good runs by David Detert, but the Urdahl brand has gone rancid in Meeker County and the odor is beginning to permeate into Wright County.
My suggestion to Rep Urdahl?
Keep your fingers out of the lions cage. The more you poke at the animals, the more apt you are to lose your whole hand...
Word on the street is that Rep Urdahl has been saying "Democrats are scared to run against him" and that "no one is running against him because he does such a great job".
As a friend of mine put it, "no one in the minority does a good job".
Urdahl held a "forum" recently in Annandale. Because only 4 people showed up, Urdahl suggests that people are satisfied.
Only four constituents attended the informal gathering that he scheduled Saturday morning, June 14, at a downtown restaurant to discuss issues including the just-completed legislative session.
The small turnout was "probably indicative of the mood of the people," the Republican lawmaker from Grove City said.
"I think that they have been fairly satisfied with the session. I think this is indicative of that."
Or, could it be that it was a very nice weekend and no one wanted to spend time with an elected leader difficult to trust? I was in Fargo last weekend, but I hear that it was beautiful down here last weekend.
Let's be clear here.
A. Democrats are not scared of Dean Urdahl.
Urdahl, in Bachmann like fashion, loses his hometown of Grove City every election. They know him best. Meeker County has turned "blue" as well. They vote for Democrats and Urdahl has lost Meeker County as well. Wright County saves Dean Urdahl every election. If people in Wright County knew Urdahl like the people in Grove City, he'd be off to an early retirement, that's for sure.
As Yoda would say...Dean Urdahl, we fear not.
B. Rep Urdahl is not doing a good job.
One example, constituent outreach. Urdahl in the majority issued 69 press releases over the last 2 years of his term in the majority.
His first term in the minority? 16
While in the minority, Urdahl was known as a moderate Republican. I lobbied Dean on many occasions and I found him to be a fairly moderate guy. Once he moved into the minority though, something changed. Perhaps it was being in close proximity to the Emmers, Paulsens, Seiferts and such, but Urdahl in the minority has become less and less moderate.
Or maybe his moderate label wasn't earned, but merely bestowed upon him.
Some key Urdahl votes
Troubling to me are Urdahl's votes for stadiums for both the Twins and Gophers but against key issues like renewable energy standards, health care, and an Iron Range miner cancer study.
His transportation record is nothing to be proud of either.
Recall that during the 06 cycle, Urdahl stated at a Litchfield forum that he would support a gas tax increase. He voted for an increase, and only after his party reigned him in, he voted to sustain the Governor's veto, voting against the transportation interests in the area.
County Commissioners were not pleased at all with Representative Urdahl. He played politics again, put his own aspirations before the people of the district.
Word on the street was that Urdahl was told by the Meeker County Republicans that if he supported the gas tax increase, they would not endorse him this year.
So, instead of voting for his constituents, he chose the easy way out.
He continued his loyalty this session and after the "Override six" were dismissed from caucus leadership positions, Urdahl seized the reigns of one of his fallen comrades. While he stated he was disappointed in what had happened, real political courage would have been exemplified by standing up for/with the "Override six" BEFORE they were effectively fired by their party.
I'd love to take a shot at running against Rep Urdahl. I'm confident I'd beat him. If some personal family issues were not in play right now, Urdahl wouldn't be as arrogant as he is right now. It would be one helluva race!
Truth be told, Urdahl is a lot more vulnerable than he believes. A strong grass roots effort with a hard working candidate would put Urdahl on the defensive real quick. He survived a few good runs by David Detert, but the Urdahl brand has gone rancid in Meeker County and the odor is beginning to permeate into Wright County.
My suggestion to Rep Urdahl?
Keep your fingers out of the lions cage. The more you poke at the animals, the more apt you are to lose your whole hand...
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Bachmann's "No More Excuses Energy Bill": Did Donna Rice come up with this?
Someone needs to help out the NRCC with their slogans, their marketing.
Seriously.
"The Change You Deserve"?
No Excuses Bills?
Damn...
At least Tinklenberg gets it!
Yep, I said it. He gets it.
A "no more excuses energy bill"?
What's next?
A "No More Excuses Veterans Bill of 2008"?
A "No More Excuses Health Care Bill of 2008"?
A "No More Excuses in Iraq Bill"?
Please Congresswoman, no more "No More Excuses".
No more grandstanding.
No more gamesmanship.
We need solutions, not slogans.
Bachmann is plenty smart. She knows that the energy crisis we are in now is due to a decade of GOP control of Congress. At this point, we are feeling the terrible fiscal tails of flawed GOP policy. This policy is hurting working and middle class Americans, who have less disposable income.
Giving up Federal land for oil refineries? Seriously? We knew Republicans were in bed with the oil companies, but seriously!
If a lack of refineries was the actual problem, why didn't Republicans offer "no excuses" from 1997-2007? They had ample opportunity.
Carbon Dioxide tax credits are in the bill as well. CARBON DIOXIDE TAX CREDITS!
Carbon tax credits are linked to...GLOBAL WARMING!
Wow, did Bachmann even read this bill? Did Brian Davis read it? Both are staunchly opposed to any argument that global warming exists.
Or, did they just like the catchy name?
Let me guess, Marcus pulled out some old "No Excuses" jeans from the Donna Rice era and broke out his beatbox to his favorite Sir Mix A Lot jams...
I digress...
We need to decrease our reliance on foreign oil. Truscott gets it right. Chris worked for Bob Olson, I supported him at one time.
A comprehensive approach is needed. Not a summer before the election excuse of a bill.
Voters are smarter than this, we see through the election year politics. This bill is politics and offers no solutions.
Seriously.
"The Change You Deserve"?
No Excuses Bills?
Damn...
At least Tinklenberg gets it!
Yep, I said it. He gets it.
A "no more excuses energy bill"?
What's next?
A "No More Excuses Veterans Bill of 2008"?
A "No More Excuses Health Care Bill of 2008"?
A "No More Excuses in Iraq Bill"?
Please Congresswoman, no more "No More Excuses".
No more grandstanding.
No more gamesmanship.
We need solutions, not slogans.
Bachmann is plenty smart. She knows that the energy crisis we are in now is due to a decade of GOP control of Congress. At this point, we are feeling the terrible fiscal tails of flawed GOP policy. This policy is hurting working and middle class Americans, who have less disposable income.
Giving up Federal land for oil refineries? Seriously? We knew Republicans were in bed with the oil companies, but seriously!
If a lack of refineries was the actual problem, why didn't Republicans offer "no excuses" from 1997-2007? They had ample opportunity.
Carbon Dioxide tax credits are in the bill as well. CARBON DIOXIDE TAX CREDITS!
Carbon tax credits are linked to...GLOBAL WARMING!
Accordingly, a carbon tax is effectively a tax on the use of fossil fuels, and only fossil fuels. Some schemes also include other greenhouse gases; the global warming potential is an internationally accepted scale of equivalence for other greenhouse gases in units of tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.
Wow, did Bachmann even read this bill? Did Brian Davis read it? Both are staunchly opposed to any argument that global warming exists.
Or, did they just like the catchy name?
Let me guess, Marcus pulled out some old "No Excuses" jeans from the Donna Rice era and broke out his beatbox to his favorite Sir Mix A Lot jams...
I digress...
We need to decrease our reliance on foreign oil. Truscott gets it right. Chris worked for Bob Olson, I supported him at one time.
On Sept. 20, 2007, I tried to be even more “to the point” with a candidate whose heart and mind were clearly elsewhere:Gas prices. Gas prices. Gas prices. Gas prices. Gas prices. Gas prices. Gas prices. In a district like the 6th, nobody can get by without a car. They all feel the “pain at the pump.” To talk about transportation or energy without mentioning one of the few issues on which (almost) everyone agrees makes a candidate seem out of touch. (Footnote: See George H.W. Bush on the price of milk.)
But Olson was far more interested in lecturing on windmills (his expertise)—and eventually his campaign, for many reasons, became an exercise in tilting at them. Fortunately, DFL-endorsed candidate Elwyn Tinklenberg isn’t making that mistake.
While ExxonMobil-funded Bachmann is now trying to paint herself as the champion of Minnesota drivers (fuel consumers), Tinklenberg is exposing her breath-taking hypocrisy on the issue and offering common-sense solutions. His big-picture approach on a consensus issue isn’t just good politics, it’s good public policy.
A comprehensive approach is needed. Not a summer before the election excuse of a bill.
Voters are smarter than this, we see through the election year politics. This bill is politics and offers no solutions.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Norm Coleman: "Chronic Womanizer"?
Ed Schultz called Senator Coleman a "skirt chaser".
Mitch Berg defended Coleman saying he has an "unconventional marriage".
Michael Brodkorb worked to attack Al Franken again, but left out a sentence from a Twin Cities writer.
A not so subtle shot at Senator Norm Coleman.
If Norm Coleman's "womanizing" ways are as well known to Minnesotans as Mitch Berg estimates, then why did Brodkorb elect to leave that tidbit out?
I can tell you this, a Norm Coleman sex scandal would damage his reputation out here in rural Central Minnesota. This race is going to be ugly!
Mitch Berg defended Coleman saying he has an "unconventional marriage".
Michael Brodkorb worked to attack Al Franken again, but left out a sentence from a Twin Cities writer.
It isn't like, you know, he is some high-profile politician hiding a reputation for chronic womanizing.
A not so subtle shot at Senator Norm Coleman.
If Norm Coleman's "womanizing" ways are as well known to Minnesotans as Mitch Berg estimates, then why did Brodkorb elect to leave that tidbit out?
I can tell you this, a Norm Coleman sex scandal would damage his reputation out here in rural Central Minnesota. This race is going to be ugly!
Sunday, June 15, 2008
A Stormy Weekend
Some photos and a video of what moved through us. We were up in our hotel room, 4th floor when the Tornado Warning was issued and the sirens started going off. It was pretty freaky...
Outside minutes from the rain and wind.
Outside minutes from the rain and wind.Video of what came through. Weather channel had the storm moving through at about 70 mph. Look at how fast the clouds fly by the sign in 1 minute of video.
I was going to shoot more video as the storm was actually passing, but the winds were so strong, I could not open the outside door. Cousin in Casselton had a funnel cloud and 70+ mph winds.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Tornado's Near Fargo
What a day...
Earlier this afternoon, a line of storms moved through with high winds and some hail.
After dinner with my sister and brother in law, Bluewoman and I were heading back to the hotel when we saw the storms moving in from the west.
I'll have video up of the wall cloud that moved through. It was insane...we could not open the doors the winds were so strong, we could not open an outside door.
Crazy...and yet, it's sunny now...
Earlier this afternoon, a line of storms moved through with high winds and some hail.
After dinner with my sister and brother in law, Bluewoman and I were heading back to the hotel when we saw the storms moving in from the west.
I'll have video up of the wall cloud that moved through. It was insane...we could not open the doors the winds were so strong, we could not open an outside door.
Crazy...and yet, it's sunny now...
Why I'm Voting Republican
I love free high speed internet in Fargo...
I don't think Bluewoman will allow me to live blog bridesmaids dress shopping...so I'll go hit a few golf balls!
I don't think Bluewoman will allow me to live blog bridesmaids dress shopping...so I'll go hit a few golf balls!
The "Wanna Save On Gas" Fallacy
After seeing the "Wanna Save On Gas, Vote (R) in November" posts popping up all over the right wing blogosphere and the feeble attacks of Brian Davis and Michele Bachmann.
Right wing bloggers are trying to make an argument that GOP energy policies, if passed, would lower a tank of gas from $4.00 per gallon to around the $2.07 range.
They chant on a consistent basis that no new refineries have "come on line" since 1976, blaming Democrats for that.
Who's controlled the House and the Senate over the years?
Since the 95th Congress, Democrats have controlled the Senate in the 95th, 96th, 100th, 101st, 102nd, and 103rd Congress'. Republicans have controlled the Senate in the 97th, 98th, 99th, 104th, 105th, 106th, 108th, and 109th Congress'. The 107th and 110th were split.
In the House, Democrats have had a little more control, holding a majority from the 95th through the 104th Congress', Republicans in control the 105th through the 109th and Democrats taking back the House for the 110th.
Republicans have had ample opportunity to pass legislation to allow for more refineries. In fact, they had a good opportunity from 1997 to 2007 to create the "Change We Deserve".
They did nothing.
In fact, with no Democratic majority from 1997-2007, the spike in gas prices could be explained in several ways.
It's easy to argue that the oil companies are in the pockets of Republicans. Too easy...
Truth be told, the 106th Congress is the cause of our $4.00 a gallon gas. Both the House and the Senate were controlled by Republicans for the 106th.
Right wing bloggers are trying to make an argument that GOP energy policies, if passed, would lower a tank of gas from $4.00 per gallon to around the $2.07 range.
They chant on a consistent basis that no new refineries have "come on line" since 1976, blaming Democrats for that.
Who's controlled the House and the Senate over the years?
Since the 95th Congress, Democrats have controlled the Senate in the 95th, 96th, 100th, 101st, 102nd, and 103rd Congress'. Republicans have controlled the Senate in the 97th, 98th, 99th, 104th, 105th, 106th, 108th, and 109th Congress'. The 107th and 110th were split.
In the House, Democrats have had a little more control, holding a majority from the 95th through the 104th Congress', Republicans in control the 105th through the 109th and Democrats taking back the House for the 110th.
Republicans have had ample opportunity to pass legislation to allow for more refineries. In fact, they had a good opportunity from 1997 to 2007 to create the "Change We Deserve".
They did nothing.
In fact, with no Democratic majority from 1997-2007, the spike in gas prices could be explained in several ways.
It's easy to argue that the oil companies are in the pockets of Republicans. Too easy...
Truth be told, the 106th Congress is the cause of our $4.00 a gallon gas. Both the House and the Senate were controlled by Republicans for the 106th.
The only practical difference between futures look-alike contracts and futures contracts is that the look-alikes are traded in unregulated markets whereas futures are traded on regulated exchanges. The trading of energy commodities by large firms on OTC electronic exchanges was exempted from CFTC oversight by a provision inserted at the behest of Enron and other large energy traders into the Commodity Futures Modernization Act of 2000 in the waning hours of the 106th Congress.
The impact on market oversight has been substantial. NYMEX traders, for example, are required to keep records of all trades and report large trades to the CFTC. These Large Trader Reports, together with daily trading data providing price and volume information, are the CFTC’s primary tools to gauge the extent of speculation in the markets and to detect, prevent, and prosecute price manipulation. CFTC Chairman Reuben Jeffrey recently stated: “The Commission’s Large Trader information system is one of the cornerstones of our surveillance program and enables detection of concentrated and coordinated positions that might be used by one or more traders to attempt manipulation.”
We're feeling the fiscal tails of this bad legislation now.
The lack of oversight in the oil speculation markets is the biggest cause of our gas price hikes. Drilling in ANWR and off our coasts is a band-aid solution. Fuel efficient vehicles, slowing our addiction to petroleum, utilizing alternative energy sources, and regulating the oil speculation markets will provide the gas price sticker shock relief we truly need.
Friday, June 13, 2008
In North Dakota...
Looks like storms in Fargo tonight...
Bluewoman going bridesmaid dress shopping in the morning I'll hopefully be golfing.
I've been following some of the "Draft Ciresi" stuff from afar. I kind of like the concept, but like Political Muse, have concerns over the pleas for Franken dirt.
Anyway...off for a Crown n Coke...
Bluewoman going bridesmaid dress shopping in the morning I'll hopefully be golfing.
I've been following some of the "Draft Ciresi" stuff from afar. I kind of like the concept, but like Political Muse, have concerns over the pleas for Franken dirt.
Anyway...off for a Crown n Coke...
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Coleman v. Franken: Quote of the day
Awesome quote!
Good luck. Maybe Franken winning is best. Jack would take the highground against Coleman. Franken might waterboard him. Or just tell the truth about Coleman and he'll think he's being waterboarded.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Norm Coleman's "unconventional marriage"?
I read "Shot in the Dark" with great interest earlier this week. Mitch Berg labeled Senator Norm Coleman's marriage as an "unconventional marriage".
What the heck is an "unconventional marriage"?
Mitch is correct. These rumors have been out there for quite some time. Mitch does Senator Coleman a great service by working to confirm these rumors.
I work in a pretty conservative office. On most days, I am the token progressive, token liberal in the office. We talk politics a lot. We had long discussions about the Franken Playboy stuff. I posed this topic in the office yesterday, to 7 co-workers, involved at different levels of politics.
None of them had heard of any issues with Senator Coleman's marriage. None of them had any idea what an "unconventional marriage" was. One jokingly said that Senator Coleman was not gay and did not support "unconventional marriages". The other said it was purely a liberal smokescreeen. The rumor is/was not as widespread as Berg thinks.
How will this news be received in the conservative small towns that dot rural central Minnesota?
The Twin Cities media outlets and bloggers (myself included) hit Franken hard on the Playboy writings. Will these same mainstream media outlets put Norm Coleman under the same microscope? Especially after a right wing blogger blew the lid off the story?
To steal from Two Putt Tommy, this is the mother of all smokescreens.
SITD commenter's even say it's true.
Oh, that's satire...
Let's be consistent here. If we're going to criticize Al Franken for Playboy writings and other problems, which call into question his judgement, than we should do the same here. I have no idea what Senator Coleman's marital situation is. I don't really care either. However, I find it interesting how right wing blogs frame Coleman's marriage as an "unconventional marriage".
This US Senate race between Coleman and Franken has the potential to be the nastiest race in the nation this year. It will not be "Minnesota nice".
Do we want this race to be about issues? I'd rather it be on the issues, but I know Two Putt Tommy and I are ready for a rumble!
At the recent Minnesota GOP convention, Senator Coleman gave a rousing speech with a cute 8 point plan.
So he calls on supporting traditional marriage but lives an "unconventional marriage"?
Nice...
One of Paul Wellstone's most powerful quotes I recall (and witnessed in person) is "never separate the life you live from the words you speak."
I feel a bit of irony there, don't you?
It’s been an open secret forever in Saint Paul and Minnesota politics; Norm and his wife have a rather unconventional marriage. Schultz is being disingenuous if he claims this is some big revelation (or, equally likely, the dim little bulb inside his thick little head hasn’t quite quite figured it out yet, and his prime directive, “blow hard first, ask questions later”, is in control).
What the heck is an "unconventional marriage"?
Mitch is correct. These rumors have been out there for quite some time. Mitch does Senator Coleman a great service by working to confirm these rumors.
I work in a pretty conservative office. On most days, I am the token progressive, token liberal in the office. We talk politics a lot. We had long discussions about the Franken Playboy stuff. I posed this topic in the office yesterday, to 7 co-workers, involved at different levels of politics.
None of them had heard of any issues with Senator Coleman's marriage. None of them had any idea what an "unconventional marriage" was. One jokingly said that Senator Coleman was not gay and did not support "unconventional marriages". The other said it was purely a liberal smokescreeen. The rumor is/was not as widespread as Berg thinks.
How will this news be received in the conservative small towns that dot rural central Minnesota?
The Twin Cities media outlets and bloggers (myself included) hit Franken hard on the Playboy writings. Will these same mainstream media outlets put Norm Coleman under the same microscope? Especially after a right wing blogger blew the lid off the story?
To steal from Two Putt Tommy, this is the mother of all smokescreens.
SITD commenter's even say it's true.
PeterH Says:
June 9th, 2008 at
11:04 pm
Norm and his wife haven’t slept together in years?
Sounds like he’s got a traditional marriage.
Oh, that's satire...
Let's be consistent here. If we're going to criticize Al Franken for Playboy writings and other problems, which call into question his judgement, than we should do the same here. I have no idea what Senator Coleman's marital situation is. I don't really care either. However, I find it interesting how right wing blogs frame Coleman's marriage as an "unconventional marriage".
This US Senate race between Coleman and Franken has the potential to be the nastiest race in the nation this year. It will not be "Minnesota nice".
Do we want this race to be about issues? I'd rather it be on the issues, but I know Two Putt Tommy and I are ready for a rumble!
At the recent Minnesota GOP convention, Senator Coleman gave a rousing speech with a cute 8 point plan.
In the closing part of his speech, Coleman, the former Democrat, urged his now-fellow Republicans to do “a better job” of emphasizing the “core conservative Republican” values of individual rights, free enterprise, no taxes, protecting life “from conception to natural death” and supporting traditional marriage.
So he calls on supporting traditional marriage but lives an "unconventional marriage"?
Nice...
One of Paul Wellstone's most powerful quotes I recall (and witnessed in person) is "never separate the life you live from the words you speak."
I feel a bit of irony there, don't you?
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Steve Sarvi: Kline Votes Against Veterans
Higher Education and Veterans benefits are two issues of utmost importance to me, all based on my personal experiences.
I tend to support candidates and elected officials who are progressive on these issues. Even if they have opposed specific legislation in these areas, they offer an honest explanation and remain supportive overall on these issues.
John Kline is not one of these elected officials.
Back about a month ago, I touched upon the antics played by Kline and other Congressional Republicans on the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (HR 2642).
On the first amendment, Congressman Kline joined Michele Bachmann by voting "Present". Cute game...while voting "Present", I contend that Kline actually went AWOL on our nations soldiers, sailors, Marines, and Veterans.
Kline voted "Present" on an amendment that would provide $500 million for Facilities Sustainment, Restoration and Modernization (FSRM). Anyone else recall the Walter Reed problem? Fort Bragg?
$3.6 Billion to address the increasing price of fuel and other petroleum products. Keep in mind, a Bradley Fighting Vehicle gets just over 2 miles per gallon of JP-8 Diesel and an M1 Tank less than a mile a gallon!$
65.4 million for the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program. The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program helps members of the National Guard and Reserve transition from combat to civilian life. With the enormous increase in Veteran suicides, programs like this save lives.
$52 million to hire more than 200 additional contract managers to prevent waste, fraud and abuse in Department of Defense contracting in Iraq and Afghanistan.
$102 million for "Land Warrior" equipment to equip one "next to deploy'' brigade combat team with Land Warrior equipment sets.
$6 billion for the procurement of combat aircraft.
Overall, the recommendations total $96,622,127,000 and are structured to maximize support to our men and women in uniform. They meet important force protection, equipment and personnel needs, while fully funding the operational requirements to conduct the Global War on Terror.
Amendment 2 (check it out, it's pretty interesting)
Kline voted against this amendment.
The amendment contained provisions to ensure that a unit that is not "fully mission capable" cannot be sent to Iraq, which could be waived by the President on a unit by unit basis. Sending units that are not "fully mission capable" is a bad idea, which Congressman Kline supports.
The amendment also provides for year long deployments with a year back in the United States before another deployment. Again, it's a common sense part of the amendment. OPTEMPO on our forces over the past 7 years has been tremendous. Providing 1 year back in the US before another deployment makes sense. Kline opposes the common sense of this.
It also has a clause dealing with war profiteering!
Sergeant Sarvi's "boots on the ground experience" in Iraq provide him with insight on these issues that provide instant credibility.
Amendment 3
This amendment contained the new GI Bill language as well as Katrina related relief.
Does John Kline understand the need for increased education benefits for our Veterans? The "new" GI Bill would:
Work to decrease the backlog of VA education benefit claims waiting to be processed (over 120,000 at this point).
Benefits provided under the bill would allow veterans pursuing an approved program of education to receive payments covering the established charges of their program, and a monthly stipend of $1,000.
It would extend the time to use the benefit from 10 years to 15 years.
The estimated $2 billion a year needed for the program equals less than one week of war in Iraq.
Sergeant Sarvi voes to not only support Veterans educational opportunities, but also those who volunteer for civic service.
This is just one example of the lack of leadership displayed by Congressman Kline. His rhetoric does not match his voting record.
Change is needed in the 2nd and other districts across Minnesota. Steve Sarvi is the right candidate at the right time for the change needed in Minnesota's 2nd Congressional District.
I tend to support candidates and elected officials who are progressive on these issues. Even if they have opposed specific legislation in these areas, they offer an honest explanation and remain supportive overall on these issues.
John Kline is not one of these elected officials.
Back about a month ago, I touched upon the antics played by Kline and other Congressional Republicans on the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (HR 2642).
On the first amendment, Congressman Kline joined Michele Bachmann by voting "Present". Cute game...while voting "Present", I contend that Kline actually went AWOL on our nations soldiers, sailors, Marines, and Veterans.
Kline voted "Present" on an amendment that would provide $500 million for Facilities Sustainment, Restoration and Modernization (FSRM). Anyone else recall the Walter Reed problem? Fort Bragg?
$3.6 Billion to address the increasing price of fuel and other petroleum products. Keep in mind, a Bradley Fighting Vehicle gets just over 2 miles per gallon of JP-8 Diesel and an M1 Tank less than a mile a gallon!$
65.4 million for the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program. The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program helps members of the National Guard and Reserve transition from combat to civilian life. With the enormous increase in Veteran suicides, programs like this save lives.
$52 million to hire more than 200 additional contract managers to prevent waste, fraud and abuse in Department of Defense contracting in Iraq and Afghanistan.
$102 million for "Land Warrior" equipment to equip one "next to deploy'' brigade combat team with Land Warrior equipment sets.
$6 billion for the procurement of combat aircraft.
Overall, the recommendations total $96,622,127,000 and are structured to maximize support to our men and women in uniform. They meet important force protection, equipment and personnel needs, while fully funding the operational requirements to conduct the Global War on Terror.
Amendment 2 (check it out, it's pretty interesting)
Kline voted against this amendment.
The amendment contained provisions to ensure that a unit that is not "fully mission capable" cannot be sent to Iraq, which could be waived by the President on a unit by unit basis. Sending units that are not "fully mission capable" is a bad idea, which Congressman Kline supports.
The amendment also provides for year long deployments with a year back in the United States before another deployment. Again, it's a common sense part of the amendment. OPTEMPO on our forces over the past 7 years has been tremendous. Providing 1 year back in the US before another deployment makes sense. Kline opposes the common sense of this.
It also has a clause dealing with war profiteering!
Sergeant Sarvi's "boots on the ground experience" in Iraq provide him with insight on these issues that provide instant credibility.
Amendment 3
This amendment contained the new GI Bill language as well as Katrina related relief.
Does John Kline understand the need for increased education benefits for our Veterans? The "new" GI Bill would:
Work to decrease the backlog of VA education benefit claims waiting to be processed (over 120,000 at this point).
Benefits provided under the bill would allow veterans pursuing an approved program of education to receive payments covering the established charges of their program, and a monthly stipend of $1,000.
It would extend the time to use the benefit from 10 years to 15 years.
The estimated $2 billion a year needed for the program equals less than one week of war in Iraq.
Sergeant Sarvi voes to not only support Veterans educational opportunities, but also those who volunteer for civic service.
This is just one example of the lack of leadership displayed by Congressman Kline. His rhetoric does not match his voting record.
Change is needed in the 2nd and other districts across Minnesota. Steve Sarvi is the right candidate at the right time for the change needed in Minnesota's 2nd Congressional District.
Steve Sarvi Video: 4
With gas hitting $4 across the Metro yesterday, the video hits us at the right time!
It's a great video, enjoy!
It's a great video, enjoy!
Steve Sarvi: John Kline's Failing Higher Education Record
Back in 2005, students across the State of Minnesota were working hard to defeat the "Deficit Reduction Act" which contained provisions to gut student aid programs.
Students from public and private colleges alike united in this effort. We met with Congressional Representatives in both offices here in Minnesota and in Washington DC. Congressmen Mark Kennedy, Gil Gutknecht, and John Kline were the elected officials from Minnesota who turned their backs on Minnesota's college students.
We got rid of Kennedy and Gutknecht in 2006. John Kline will follow in 2008.
Steve Sarvi understands the "sticker shock" that families face when helping their children make their higher education decisions. The sticker shock of a 65% increase in tuition over the past decade compounded with an average of a 5% increase in median wages hinders those in lower socio-economic groups from going to college.
Congressman Kline has failed his constituents on higher education. While in the Congressional majority, Kline voted to cut $12.7 Billion from student loan programs.
When a Democrat controlled Congress sought an opportunity to fix this problem, Congressman Kline failed, by supporting the financial industries over his actual constituents.
Perhaps his most egregious higher education vote was his vote against the College Cost Reduction Act (HR 2669). It's legislation that will provide access and choice in higher education opportunities for working and middle class Minnesotans. It makes sense, which is probably why Congressman Kline voted against it, twice!
The legislation provides the state with $482 million more in aid and saves an average of $4,300 per loan recipient, over the life of their loan.
Now here's the kicker...Congress did it without any new cost to the taxpayer. Kline opposed cutting the excess subsidies paid by the government to lenders in the student loan industry. Yes, he supported pork for lenders but not for bridges in his district.
The Kline record on higher education is bad, really bad. It's one of many reasons to support Steve Sarvi, a leader who gets it!
Students from public and private colleges alike united in this effort. We met with Congressional Representatives in both offices here in Minnesota and in Washington DC. Congressmen Mark Kennedy, Gil Gutknecht, and John Kline were the elected officials from Minnesota who turned their backs on Minnesota's college students.
We got rid of Kennedy and Gutknecht in 2006. John Kline will follow in 2008.
Steve Sarvi understands the "sticker shock" that families face when helping their children make their higher education decisions. The sticker shock of a 65% increase in tuition over the past decade compounded with an average of a 5% increase in median wages hinders those in lower socio-economic groups from going to college.
Congressman Kline has failed his constituents on higher education. While in the Congressional majority, Kline voted to cut $12.7 Billion from student loan programs.
When a Democrat controlled Congress sought an opportunity to fix this problem, Congressman Kline failed, by supporting the financial industries over his actual constituents.
Perhaps his most egregious higher education vote was his vote against the College Cost Reduction Act (HR 2669). It's legislation that will provide access and choice in higher education opportunities for working and middle class Minnesotans. It makes sense, which is probably why Congressman Kline voted against it, twice!
The legislation provides the state with $482 million more in aid and saves an average of $4,300 per loan recipient, over the life of their loan.
Now here's the kicker...Congress did it without any new cost to the taxpayer. Kline opposed cutting the excess subsidies paid by the government to lenders in the student loan industry. Yes, he supported pork for lenders but not for bridges in his district.
The Kline record on higher education is bad, really bad. It's one of many reasons to support Steve Sarvi, a leader who gets it!
Monday, June 09, 2008
Another Endorsement for Franken
Alec Baldwin has a glowing endorsement of Al Franken at Huffington Post. He rips Norm Coleman to shreds while he's at it.
The same Alec Baldwin who verbally assaulted his 12 year old daughter?
Come on now! Really? This is going to be hard enough without clowns like Alec Baldwin getting involved.
Alec ought to stick to his entertainment career, help out Stephen with Biodome II or something!
Alec frickin Baldwin...you've got to be kidding me.
This is going to be a long 5 months if the Baldwins come to Minnesota...
Coleman becoming a US Senator from that great state was a travesty. Now the time has come to correct that mistake. Coleman, who makes Mitt Romney look like a visionary, is so far from the best that state has to offer, it is unbelievable to imagine that he is even in the running for reelection. An uninformed and weak-willed apologist for this awful administration is being challenged by one of the best progressive minds of his generation. I don't care how much ribald and salty humor he has dished out during is entertainment career. Judge Al Franken by what he stands as today: a searingly intelligent and abundantly caring son of Minnesota who has returned home to attempt to lend his voice to our nation's political discourse on the most formal of levels. No blogging. No books. No comedy sketches. Putting his career and his opinions on the line on behalf of serving the people of Minnesota.
The same Alec Baldwin who verbally assaulted his 12 year old daughter?
"I'm tired of playing this game with you. I'm leaving this message with you to tell you you have insulted me for the last time. You have insulted me. You don't have the brains or the decency as a human being. I don't give a damn that you're 12 years old, or 11 years old, or that you're a child, or that your mother is a thoughtless pain in the ass who doesn't care about what you do as far as I'm concerned. You have humiliated me for the last time with this phone."
"And when I come out there next week, I'm going to fly out there for the day just to straighten you out on this issue. I'm going to let you know just how disappointed in you I am and how angry I am with you that you've done this to me again. You've made me feel like s --- and you've made me feel like a fool over and over and over again. And this crap you pull on me with this expletive phone situation that you would never dream of doing to your mother and you do it to me constantly and over and over again. I am going to get on a plane and I am going to come out there for the day and I am going to straighten your ass out when I see you."
"Do you understand me? I'm going to really make sure you get it. Then I'm going to get on a plane and I'm going to turn around and come home. So you'd better be ready Friday the 20th to meet with me. So I'm going to let you know just how I feel about what a rude little pig you really are. You are a rude, thoughtless little pig, OK?"
Come on now! Really? This is going to be hard enough without clowns like Alec Baldwin getting involved.
Alec ought to stick to his entertainment career, help out Stephen with Biodome II or something!
Alec frickin Baldwin...you've got to be kidding me.
This is going to be a long 5 months if the Baldwins come to Minnesota...
Sunday, June 08, 2008
On the Feminist Caucus Endorsement
Bluewoman and I were watching the blogs while we were getting ready to head out to a wedding yesterday, we were both pretty surprised when the DFL Feminist Caucus endorsed Al Franken.
We were both disappointed.
I've known the former President of the DFL Feminist Caucus for several years now. Her resignation from the caucus was a surprise at first. Mari's work ethic for Democratic politics and candidates, integrity, selfless service, and instincts are beyond reproach. When I learned of how the Franken Endorsement came about, her resignation came as no surprise.
I saw this interesting comment over at MDE.
Indeed. Al Franken, post Playboy scandal, couldn't sum up the courage to call the President of the DFL Feminist Caucus to discuss this matter with her?
From Franken's acceptance speech yesterday.
How will Franken stand up to Coleman when he didn't have the courage to disucss the Playboy issue with prominent DFLers who were genuinely hurt by his own actions?
At the wedding yesterday, I spoke to a lot of Democrats. There wasn't a single Democrat who was enthused by what happened in Rochester yesterday.
"Who's going to save us from Al Franken?" one lifelong DFLer asked a group of us last night. One came back with "Norm Coleman".
I also heard the line "I love Rachel Ray but I don't want her in the US Senate".
The behind the scenes actions of the DFL Feminist Caucus are disturbing to me. Franken got it right though. He ignored those who were truly disturbed by his obscene writings and talked to others at the caucus one on one. It's easier for Franken to smooth over one caucus member than to risk a meeting with several strong, proud, and upset caucus members.
Brilliantly played Mr Franken.
The DFL Feminist Caucus endorsement was key to Franken winning on the first ballot yesterday. However this endorsement does nothing for him in Greater Minnesota. In November, Franken will surely sweep the CD 4 and 5, the metro area. It does him no good in the 6th and other more conservative areas of the state.
Do we really think the biggest Franken scandals are out there now?
We should be uniting around candidates now. Most probably are. The happenings this weekend leave me disturbed. A great Democrat was thrown under a bus this weekend. Whether or not this was orchestrated by Team Franken, the endorsement is tainted.
Five months remain until the election. Franken has a lot of work to do in order to solidify support out here in Greater Minnesota. Throwing a respected member of our community is not a good start.
If more Democrats had the courage and integrity of Mari, we wouldn't be in the fix were in now.
We were both disappointed.
I've known the former President of the DFL Feminist Caucus for several years now. Her resignation from the caucus was a surprise at first. Mari's work ethic for Democratic politics and candidates, integrity, selfless service, and instincts are beyond reproach. When I learned of how the Franken Endorsement came about, her resignation came as no surprise.
I saw this interesting comment over at MDE.
Mari is a stand-up character. Jackie Stevenson and the others went behind Mari’s back and endorsed him without Mari even being there and then circulated the petition right as she was going on stage.
They did that because they knew she would be opposed to endorsing a guy who didn’t even have the balls to give her a phone call to explain himself.
The feminist caucus is now a joke in my eyes. You guys really screwed up got used by the Franken campaign. He doesn’t give a shit about the caucus - you were damage control and he played you perfectly in time with his speech. Now you look stupid because you have publicly announced that you don’t care about feminism, and instead care only your preferential candidate.
Indeed. Al Franken, post Playboy scandal, couldn't sum up the courage to call the President of the DFL Feminist Caucus to discuss this matter with her?
From Franken's acceptance speech yesterday.
I am going to stand up to Norm Coleman in a way he's never been stood up to before. Because that's what I've done, and that's what I'm good at.
How will Franken stand up to Coleman when he didn't have the courage to disucss the Playboy issue with prominent DFLers who were genuinely hurt by his own actions?
At the wedding yesterday, I spoke to a lot of Democrats. There wasn't a single Democrat who was enthused by what happened in Rochester yesterday.
"Who's going to save us from Al Franken?" one lifelong DFLer asked a group of us last night. One came back with "Norm Coleman".
I also heard the line "I love Rachel Ray but I don't want her in the US Senate".
The behind the scenes actions of the DFL Feminist Caucus are disturbing to me. Franken got it right though. He ignored those who were truly disturbed by his obscene writings and talked to others at the caucus one on one. It's easier for Franken to smooth over one caucus member than to risk a meeting with several strong, proud, and upset caucus members.
Brilliantly played Mr Franken.
The DFL Feminist Caucus endorsement was key to Franken winning on the first ballot yesterday. However this endorsement does nothing for him in Greater Minnesota. In November, Franken will surely sweep the CD 4 and 5, the metro area. It does him no good in the 6th and other more conservative areas of the state.
Do we really think the biggest Franken scandals are out there now?
We should be uniting around candidates now. Most probably are. The happenings this weekend leave me disturbed. A great Democrat was thrown under a bus this weekend. Whether or not this was orchestrated by Team Franken, the endorsement is tainted.
Five months remain until the election. Franken has a lot of work to do in order to solidify support out here in Greater Minnesota. Throwing a respected member of our community is not a good start.
If more Democrats had the courage and integrity of Mari, we wouldn't be in the fix were in now.
More from Ed Schultz on Norm Coleman's Morality
From Friday's Ed Schultz Show:
"Now, if this continues, if this slime attack on Al Franken continues, Norm Coleman needs to know that I don't like him."
"And Norm Coleman needs to know that I have Ed Heads all over Minnesota."
"And Norm Coleman needs to know that I will seek out women who have been hit on by Norm Coleman."
"I will play dirty Norm, if you keep playing dirty on my brother Al."
"I'm so glad you brought up Norm Coleman's skirt chasing. I have an acquaintance in her early 20's, gorgeous and well endowed, and Norm tried to pick her up and a friend in a local bar, he's absolutely slimy."
"Oooo hooo. Oh, I love that stuff. I'll be the lefty pit bull who takes down Norm. Just give me the material. Give me a phone number. Let's get it on."
"Now, if this continues, if this slime attack on Al Franken continues, Norm Coleman needs to know that I don't like him."
"And Norm Coleman needs to know that I have Ed Heads all over Minnesota."
"And Norm Coleman needs to know that I will seek out women who have been hit on by Norm Coleman."
"I will play dirty Norm, if you keep playing dirty on my brother Al."
"I'm so glad you brought up Norm Coleman's skirt chasing. I have an acquaintance in her early 20's, gorgeous and well endowed, and Norm tried to pick her up and a friend in a local bar, he's absolutely slimy."
"Oooo hooo. Oh, I love that stuff. I'll be the lefty pit bull who takes down Norm. Just give me the material. Give me a phone number. Let's get it on."
Ed Schultz Calls Norm Coleman A Skirt Chaser?
From the 3rd Hour of the June 6, 2008 show.
On the Al Franken scandals:
Schultz spent significant time in the 3rd hour of his show on Friday coming to the defense of Al Franken.
On the Al Franken scandals:
"This is all to just lather up the right, to shake down the Democrats, to make Norm Coleman look like he's an altar boy, which he is not. And that is a story that the right wing media in Minnesota will never do. You know, Norm likes to chase the skirt, you know, there's no doubt about that. Anybody wanna counter me on that? Anybody in the media want to write an editorial about what an altar boy Norm Coleman is? Any right wing talkers in Minnesota want to tell us what an upstanding, wonderful, highly moral guy Norm Coleman is? Come on! Let's get it on!"
Schultz spent significant time in the 3rd hour of his show on Friday coming to the defense of Al Franken.
Friday, June 06, 2008
Steve Sarvi Blog Day!
The Big E over at Mn Blue has spent quite some time recently working to organize a Steve Sarvi Blog Day in Minnesota, on June 10th.
My focus will be on Veterans Issues and Higher Education.
Sarvi is a great candidate. The mainstream media has ignored the race the 2nd CD. We'll work to bring some much deserved attention to Sergeant Sarvi and the issues important to those in the 2nd.
So with this good news, I'm happy to announce the Steve Sarvi Blog Day is coming up next Tuesday, June 10th.
The idea is for as many blogs as possible to talk about Steve and encourage their readers to go to Steve's Act Blue page and donate.
Steve has a chance to beat a Republican who has a partisan voting percentage of 93+% in a district that is turning blue. He has a chance to oust a retired Marine Colonel who was given a 0% rating from the Disabled American Veterans and a D grade from the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. He has a chance to privatize a Representative who has been wrong on Iraq, healthcare, the economy and transportation.
My focus will be on Veterans Issues and Higher Education.
Sarvi is a great candidate. The mainstream media has ignored the race the 2nd CD. We'll work to bring some much deserved attention to Sergeant Sarvi and the issues important to those in the 2nd.
RT Rybak for US Senate?
The rumor mill has been churning for weeks now and possible candidates entering the US Senate race.
Tarryl Clark, Betty McCollum, Mike Ciresi have been at the top of the rumor mill list for quite some time, generating a good deal of traffic through this and other blogs.
Chris Truscott reported early this morning on the possibility of Minneapolis Mayor RT Ryback joining the race.
Mayor Ryback is a great guy. During the St Cloud special elections for Tarryl Clark and Larry Haws, Ryback was very visible on campus and worked with many of us knocking doors and working to get college students, who were still near campus over the winter break, to vote.
I remain steadfast in my support of Jack Nelson Pallmeyer.
It seems like we have decided to make the early morning trek tomorrow morning down to Rochester for the JNP rally at the convention. We'll probably hang out for a while at the convention and them make our way up to the cities for a wedding!
We're looking forward to seeing the events unfold down in Rochester this weekend!
Tarryl Clark, Betty McCollum, Mike Ciresi have been at the top of the rumor mill list for quite some time, generating a good deal of traffic through this and other blogs.
Chris Truscott reported early this morning on the possibility of Minneapolis Mayor RT Ryback joining the race.
I’m told there’s maybe a “5-percent chance” the mayor will get into the race. I hope the odds are better as he may be our best chance to beat Norm Coleman in November.
Think about it for a second: Rybak has a good record as mayor of Minneapolis, a statewide network of supporters through his years of involvement with the party, lots of goodwill because of his work on behalf of Barack Obama, and the ability to put together a strong campaign relatively quickly.
Mayor Ryback is a great guy. During the St Cloud special elections for Tarryl Clark and Larry Haws, Ryback was very visible on campus and worked with many of us knocking doors and working to get college students, who were still near campus over the winter break, to vote.
I remain steadfast in my support of Jack Nelson Pallmeyer.
It seems like we have decided to make the early morning trek tomorrow morning down to Rochester for the JNP rally at the convention. We'll probably hang out for a while at the convention and them make our way up to the cities for a wedding!
We're looking forward to seeing the events unfold down in Rochester this weekend!
Thursday, June 05, 2008
How much buyers remorse will there be in the Senate race?
It's a lot like the debate that raged in the late 70's /early 80's.
Betamax or VHS?
Those that reacted early and jumped on the Betamax product would soon be disappointed by the superior VHS tape. Betamax tapes and machines became obsolete quicker than 8 tracks.
I think the same is happening in our US Senate race. People drank the kool aid and jumped on the Al Franken bandwagon quickly. As I worked several conventions around the area, people were sold quickly on Al Franken.
Jack Nelson Pallmeyer was relatively unknown to many of these delegates. After seeing Jack speak and witnessing Jack hold true to his solid progressive convictions, people moved from Franken, Ciresi, and undecided groups to support a strong, proud, and authentic progressive.
Delegates started to officially align behind Franken in February, shortly after the precinct caucuses and have been getting behind their candidates ever since.
A lot of things have happened since February. Beyond the imploding Franken campaign, Jack Nelson Pallmeyer has connected with delegates. He has remained above the fray, always talking about the issues at hand, the issues that matter most to voters across the state.
I'm wondering how much buyers remorse will be out there on Al Franken? I know he's going to probably see a majority on the first ballot, my prediction 54% 43% 3% undecided/no endorsement. The second and subsequent ballots will be very interesting.
I never bought into Betamax and I haven't bought into Franken. I think he's a nice guy and I would vote for him over Norm Coleman, but he does not connect with me.
I tried to have a conversation with Franken about depleted uranium munitions and gulf war syndrome. He appeared to be quite distracted and not interested on the issue. I spoke to Jack at the same event. He knew the same activists that have been fighting this issue for more than a decade.
Jack connects to people like me.
He's no Betamax, Jack's the real deal.
Betamax or VHS?
Those that reacted early and jumped on the Betamax product would soon be disappointed by the superior VHS tape. Betamax tapes and machines became obsolete quicker than 8 tracks.
I think the same is happening in our US Senate race. People drank the kool aid and jumped on the Al Franken bandwagon quickly. As I worked several conventions around the area, people were sold quickly on Al Franken.
Jack Nelson Pallmeyer was relatively unknown to many of these delegates. After seeing Jack speak and witnessing Jack hold true to his solid progressive convictions, people moved from Franken, Ciresi, and undecided groups to support a strong, proud, and authentic progressive.
Delegates started to officially align behind Franken in February, shortly after the precinct caucuses and have been getting behind their candidates ever since.
A lot of things have happened since February. Beyond the imploding Franken campaign, Jack Nelson Pallmeyer has connected with delegates. He has remained above the fray, always talking about the issues at hand, the issues that matter most to voters across the state.
I'm wondering how much buyers remorse will be out there on Al Franken? I know he's going to probably see a majority on the first ballot, my prediction 54% 43% 3% undecided/no endorsement. The second and subsequent ballots will be very interesting.
I never bought into Betamax and I haven't bought into Franken. I think he's a nice guy and I would vote for him over Norm Coleman, but he does not connect with me.
I tried to have a conversation with Franken about depleted uranium munitions and gulf war syndrome. He appeared to be quite distracted and not interested on the issue. I spoke to Jack at the same event. He knew the same activists that have been fighting this issue for more than a decade.
Jack connects to people like me.
He's no Betamax, Jack's the real deal.
Jack Nelson Pallmeyer Gets A Great Endorsement
From Senator Klobuchar's 2006 campaign manager, Ben Goldfarb!
From the announcement yesterday:
Here's why I'm confident he can win:
1. Jack provides an incredibly stark contrast with Norm Coleman. Winning candidates provide a clear, compelling choice to voters. And as a challenger, it's critically important to keep the focus on the incumbent. I believe that on pressing issues, on character and integrity, and on life experience, Jack poses the stark contrast we need and can keep this race a referendum on the incumbent.
2. Minnesotans are thoughtful voters who reward authenticity and conviction. We have a long history of supporting unconventional candidates who looked like long shots only a few months before Election Day, but were able to connect on a human level. I strongly believe that Jack's life story, courage, and authenticity are a lock to make him the next such candidate.
3. Jack will have the resources he needs. This remains one of only a handful of competitive Senate races in the country. Combining Jack's strong Minnesota base of funders, a unified DFL, and a significant national interest will give him the support he needs. He won't have the most money, but he doesn't need to. In 2006, Mark Kennedy outspent Amy Klobuchar by nearly $1 million and lost by 20 points. Moreover, Senators Tester (MT) and Webb (VA), each emerged from June primaries in 2006 without much in the bank and had no problem raising the resources they needed to topple well-finded incumbents.
Bluewoman and I are contemplating heading down to Rochester for the rally on Saturday. The only sticking point is that we have a wedding to go to in the cities on Saturday afternoon and that it's a 2 1/2 hour drive from our Wright County outpost. Who knows what will happen, I know we really want to go and support Jack!
It's going to be an interesting weekend!
From the announcement yesterday:
Here's why I'm confident he can win:
1. Jack provides an incredibly stark contrast with Norm Coleman. Winning candidates provide a clear, compelling choice to voters. And as a challenger, it's critically important to keep the focus on the incumbent. I believe that on pressing issues, on character and integrity, and on life experience, Jack poses the stark contrast we need and can keep this race a referendum on the incumbent.
2. Minnesotans are thoughtful voters who reward authenticity and conviction. We have a long history of supporting unconventional candidates who looked like long shots only a few months before Election Day, but were able to connect on a human level. I strongly believe that Jack's life story, courage, and authenticity are a lock to make him the next such candidate.
3. Jack will have the resources he needs. This remains one of only a handful of competitive Senate races in the country. Combining Jack's strong Minnesota base of funders, a unified DFL, and a significant national interest will give him the support he needs. He won't have the most money, but he doesn't need to. In 2006, Mark Kennedy outspent Amy Klobuchar by nearly $1 million and lost by 20 points. Moreover, Senators Tester (MT) and Webb (VA), each emerged from June primaries in 2006 without much in the bank and had no problem raising the resources they needed to topple well-finded incumbents.
Bluewoman and I are contemplating heading down to Rochester for the rally on Saturday. The only sticking point is that we have a wedding to go to in the cities on Saturday afternoon and that it's a 2 1/2 hour drive from our Wright County outpost. Who knows what will happen, I know we really want to go and support Jack!
It's going to be an interesting weekend!
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Sarvi / CD 2 Poll Numbers Out!
Ladies and Gentlemen, we have a race.
A poll was conducted May 19-22 polling 400 registered voters in Minnesota's 2nd Congressional District.
Here are some very interesting findings from the poll.
-Congressman Kline’s job rating is a bleak 44% fair/poor to only 39% excellent/good; aside from the fact that it is a net negative showing, one should note that 39% approval is a long way from 50%. Incumbents under 50% are considered vulnerable.
-69% of district voters think the country is on the wrong track. Furthermore, the data show that the tired, traditional attacks on a Democratic candidate will work no better in this district than they did in the recent Mississippi, Louisiana and Illinois special elections. Congressman Kline's tired attacks are a failing tactic.
-Congressman Kline's support is neither broad nor deep. After hearing just one positive statement about Sarvi and nothing critical of Kline, voters quickly shift their preference to Sarvi, 49% to 37%. A second positive message about Steve (still without a negative on Kline) shifts the balance further, increasing Sarvi’s lead to 58% to 26%. The most basic voter education about Steve’s record and vision makes the race competitive, on an issue terrain that clearly presents the Sarvi campaign with enormous opportunities.
-Wedge issues will not work! Typical "wedge" issues wield very little power in the 2nd District. Half of those polled prefer a pro-choice candidate, and 80% either partly favor or strongly favor a moderate position on dealing with illegal immigration.
-The poll confirms what we've known for quite some time. The political demographics in the 2nd District are changing. The generic ballot between any Democrat and any Republican starts out tied at 40%. This is the first time in the district’s history that this has been the case.
-Being a Bush-dog does not help Congressman Kline at all. Bush has a 76% disapproval rating in the 2nd CD. With a voting record closely aligned with Bush policies, this does not bode well for Kline.
The key issues in the 2nd?
The economy (38%), the war in Iraq (32%), healthcare/prescription costs (21%), and gas prices.
Steve Sarvi is the right candidate at the right time. His service to our Country in both Iraq and Kosovo and his experience in local government are strong qualifiers for office.
It's early.
These are great polling numbers! Things can change a lot between now and November. The time to act is now. Team Sarvi has worked hard to make this a competitive race in the 2nd CD. It's our turn to step up and help him out in every way possible.
Go here to volunteer for Sarvi!
Go here to contribute to the campaign!
A poll was conducted May 19-22 polling 400 registered voters in Minnesota's 2nd Congressional District.
Here are some very interesting findings from the poll.
-Congressman Kline’s job rating is a bleak 44% fair/poor to only 39% excellent/good; aside from the fact that it is a net negative showing, one should note that 39% approval is a long way from 50%. Incumbents under 50% are considered vulnerable.
-69% of district voters think the country is on the wrong track. Furthermore, the data show that the tired, traditional attacks on a Democratic candidate will work no better in this district than they did in the recent Mississippi, Louisiana and Illinois special elections. Congressman Kline's tired attacks are a failing tactic.
-Congressman Kline's support is neither broad nor deep. After hearing just one positive statement about Sarvi and nothing critical of Kline, voters quickly shift their preference to Sarvi, 49% to 37%. A second positive message about Steve (still without a negative on Kline) shifts the balance further, increasing Sarvi’s lead to 58% to 26%. The most basic voter education about Steve’s record and vision makes the race competitive, on an issue terrain that clearly presents the Sarvi campaign with enormous opportunities.
-Wedge issues will not work! Typical "wedge" issues wield very little power in the 2nd District. Half of those polled prefer a pro-choice candidate, and 80% either partly favor or strongly favor a moderate position on dealing with illegal immigration.
-The poll confirms what we've known for quite some time. The political demographics in the 2nd District are changing. The generic ballot between any Democrat and any Republican starts out tied at 40%. This is the first time in the district’s history that this has been the case.
-Being a Bush-dog does not help Congressman Kline at all. Bush has a 76% disapproval rating in the 2nd CD. With a voting record closely aligned with Bush policies, this does not bode well for Kline.
The key issues in the 2nd?
The economy (38%), the war in Iraq (32%), healthcare/prescription costs (21%), and gas prices.
Steve Sarvi is the right candidate at the right time. His service to our Country in both Iraq and Kosovo and his experience in local government are strong qualifiers for office.
It's early.
These are great polling numbers! Things can change a lot between now and November. The time to act is now. Team Sarvi has worked hard to make this a competitive race in the 2nd CD. It's our turn to step up and help him out in every way possible.
Go here to volunteer for Sarvi!
Go here to contribute to the campaign!
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
An Obama Flashback
I remember watching this speech back in 2004. I was awestruck by Obama then and continue to be now.
Years ago, back in my MSUSA days, a group of us were lurking downstairs on the Senate side of the Capitol, taking a few minutes to check out the train that takes Senators to and from the Capitol.
All the sudden, from around the corner, Senator Obama appeared. He was larger than life for us political junkies from Minnesota. He took a minute to talk to us and we snapped a photo of him with one of our students, from Illinois. It was a pretty freakin awesome experience.
So, here's a taste of what's coming for us now. Obama's speech tonight was absolutely powerful. Obama is one of only a few politicians who have ever given me goosebumps when they spoke.
The other politician that immediately comes to mind is Paul Wellstone.
So, check out the 2004 DNC video...for many of us, the start of our love for Barack Obama.
Years ago, back in my MSUSA days, a group of us were lurking downstairs on the Senate side of the Capitol, taking a few minutes to check out the train that takes Senators to and from the Capitol.
All the sudden, from around the corner, Senator Obama appeared. He was larger than life for us political junkies from Minnesota. He took a minute to talk to us and we snapped a photo of him with one of our students, from Illinois. It was a pretty freakin awesome experience.
So, here's a taste of what's coming for us now. Obama's speech tonight was absolutely powerful. Obama is one of only a few politicians who have ever given me goosebumps when they spoke.
The other politician that immediately comes to mind is Paul Wellstone.
So, check out the 2004 DNC video...for many of us, the start of our love for Barack Obama.
Obama: Hugs and Hand Pounds (Updated)
Bluewoman called me when Obama clinched the nomination. I arrived home just in time to watch the speech.
I have to say, I loved the Obama's "handpound" after the hug!
It's a historic night in St Paul! Enjoy it, because here comes the fight!
*Update*: Obama is on his A game tonight. I am absolutely filled with goosebumps, that was an amazing speech tonight.
I remember seeing Obama speak at the 2006 Humphrey Day dinner, BB (Before Bluewoman). He did not disappoint them, he did not now.
Bluewoman just told me that Obama's speech was "better than chocolate".
I have to say, I loved the Obama's "handpound" after the hug!
It's a historic night in St Paul! Enjoy it, because here comes the fight!
*Update*: Obama is on his A game tonight. I am absolutely filled with goosebumps, that was an amazing speech tonight.
I remember seeing Obama speak at the 2006 Humphrey Day dinner, BB (Before Bluewoman). He did not disappoint them, he did not now.
Bluewoman just told me that Obama's speech was "better than chocolate".
Bachmann, The GOP State Convention and Other Musings
Notably absent from the speakers at the Minnesota Republican Convention this weekend in Rochester, was Congresswoman Michele Bachmann. I hear she was in attendance at some point but did not address the delegates.
Erik Paulsen also did not address the delegates.
I find that to be pretty interesting. How worried are they of a You Tube moment?
It's been widely reported on right wing blogs that convention attendees were greeted with two large "Ron Carey approved" banners displaying who delegates were to vote for. A "Conservative Team" they called it.
Red Hat McCain staffers were marching across the convention floor dictating who each delegate should vote for by holding up yes and no placards.
Ah...democracy at its best! At least they have evolved to the point where they actually count votes, unlike the Meeker County Republicans failing to count votes because of their fear of the Ron Paul revolution.
AAA over at Residual Forces has a letter from the Chair of the McLeod County Republicans. Apparently, because they are upset with Norm Coleman and had threatened to not support him after he was endorsed, party leadership sought to remove BPOU's that did not support endorsed candidates.
Carey threw a temper tantrum.
BTW, it's been 26 days since several progressive bloggers have called for the Ron Carey Gag Order to be lifted...nothing yet...
Mr. Carey, can you please remove the gag order on Michele Bachmann while you're at it?
Erik Paulsen also did not address the delegates.
I find that to be pretty interesting. How worried are they of a You Tube moment?
It's been widely reported on right wing blogs that convention attendees were greeted with two large "Ron Carey approved" banners displaying who delegates were to vote for. A "Conservative Team" they called it.
Red Hat McCain staffers were marching across the convention floor dictating who each delegate should vote for by holding up yes and no placards.
Ah...democracy at its best! At least they have evolved to the point where they actually count votes, unlike the Meeker County Republicans failing to count votes because of their fear of the Ron Paul revolution.
AAA over at Residual Forces has a letter from the Chair of the McLeod County Republicans. Apparently, because they are upset with Norm Coleman and had threatened to not support him after he was endorsed, party leadership sought to remove BPOU's that did not support endorsed candidates.
Carey threw a temper tantrum.
When I was done speaking, Ron Carey slammed his chair back, ran to the microphone, and spoke out of order to direct a personal attack against me. In essence, he said that I was a dishonest BPOU chair who took too long getting his delegate lists to the party. (Funny thing, I thought it was Carey who wouldn’t share his lists with the Huckabee or Paul campaigns. Either I was misinformed or there’s a double standard.) He made it clear that the amendment would have been used against my county, and probably against McLeod. Fortunately, it failed by a vote of 66% to 33%.Wow, and the righty bloggers say Al Franken has a temper! How many delegates did Carey do this in front of? This guy is still the Republican Party leader in Minnesota?
BTW, it's been 26 days since several progressive bloggers have called for the Ron Carey Gag Order to be lifted...nothing yet...
Mr. Carey, can you please remove the gag order on Michele Bachmann while you're at it?
Monday, June 02, 2008
Brian Davis Photo Caption Game
"I'll take irrelevant Minnesota Congressional campaigns for $200 Alex."
Anyone else want to play?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)