Obama and Clinton slam Court on Abortion Ruling

Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama critisicized recent US Supreme Court decisions as "hypocritical and inconsistant" on tuesday. He was saying a ruling that is upholding a late term abortion ban was part of a concerted effort to roll back womens rights. Fellow Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton, has also been seen at conferences for abortion rights. The two leading Democrats in the 2008 presidential race courted women activists at the conference and said President George W. Bush was taking direct aim at overturning the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling legalizing abortion. Obama said the court's 5-4 rulings to uphold the late-term abortion ban, make it harder for women to sue over pay discrimination and strike down race-based school assignment programs were part an effort "to steadily roll back the hard-won rights of American women."

"There is an inconsistency, and I believe a hypocrisy, in terms of how we see these decisions being issued," the Illinois senator said of the Supreme Court.

"When the science is inconvenient, when the facts don't match up with the ideology, they are cast aside," he said.

"At the top of the list was this effort to try to overturn Roe vs Wade or at least try to chip away at it," Clinton said, adding the Bush administration has waged war against contraception education and "set out from Day One to dismantle reproduction rights around the world."

Also appearing at the conference sponsored by the action fund of Planned Parenthood, a leading provider of reproductive services including abortion, was Elizabeth Edwards, wife of Democratic presidential contender John Edwards.Clinton, a New York senator, leads Democratic White House contenders six months before the first votes in the nominating race and 16 months before the November 2008 election. Polls show her with large leads among Democratic women voters. Both she and Obama said they would take a different approach in their Supreme Court appointments than Bush.

"I would appoint well-qualified judges who really respect the Constitution," Clinton said.

Obama said he would look into the heart of a potential Supreme Court nominee. "We need somebody who's got the empathy to recognize what it's like to be a young teen-aged mom," he said.



i am definatly in agreement witih the two democratic candidates in showing support for womens rights and their right to abortion. i think a women should have her own choices over her own body and she is to decide if she is or isnt ready for a baby. I think it is a good idea to get someone in office who will make sure the Roe vs. Wade ruling doesnt change.

‘It’s a Mess’ Says Mayor: City Council Addresses City's Infrastructure

Years and years of neglect have caused city officials to take a hard look at South Pasadena's crumbling infrastructure, which Mayor Michael Cacciotti has called "a mess." He believes the time has come for the city to finally find the funds to repair its streets, many of which are filled with potholes. The infrastructure not only includes the streets, but also the city's aging sewer and water system, curbs, gutters, and sidewalks. The cost of improving the streets, curbs and gutter add up to about $16 million. Improvements to the water system would be approximately $61 million and it would take about $29 million to repair the city's sewage system. Each year there was supposed to be a certain amount of maintenance and this has been neglected for over 50 years. According to a local resident, "For decades, all the candidates for City Council have pledged to repair our roads and the sewer pipe lines under them. Yet the roads keep disintegrating, and, at random intervals, sewage empties onto our yards as well as the roads." In addition to addressing the concerns of the city's infrastructure, the council hopes to eliminate any more talk of the proposed Long Beach (710) Freeway, retain and attract quality employees, preserve and improve the environment and increase sources of revenue to meet unmet needs in the city.

I chose this article because it deals with local South Pasadena politics that affect me. It is definately time for South Pasadena to improve in their neglected areas...especially the roads. It is ridiculous the amount of potholes there are and how bumpy the roads our when I am driving. However, since this is going to cost large sums of money to get things accomplished, it should be done gradually rather than all at once. This article also goes to show that promises candidates make are sometimes never fulfilled ones. They often just want to become popular with the public to get their position.
http://www.southpasadenareview.com/

Obama raises $32.5 million, thought to be a Democratic party record

Presidential contender Sen. Barack Obama raised at least $32.5 million in the second quarter of 2007, topping his first quarter effort by nearly $7 million, the Illinois Democrat's campaign announced Sunday.
The Obama campaign said the senator raised "at least" $31 million in the second quarter in primary money, and a total -- counting $1.5 million in general election funds -- of $32.5 million.
The amount is believed to be the highest ever raised in a quarter by a Democratic candidate, and exceeded what rival Sen. Hillary Clinton's campaign predicted she would raise in the same period.

I chose this article because I knew that you should have lot of money before a presidential election but I did not know the certain amount of money that is needed. This article explains the certain amount of money that Obama raised. The money was raised from donation or other things -I don't know- but I think people should not donate for a candidate who is running for president. I hope that people donate for better cause.

Democrats gain further control of senate because of Bush's dumbassedness.

The democrats in the Senate are optimistic about the upcoming 2008 elections. Currently, the democratic party has 49 seats in the senate, which is pretty sweet. They feel that because of the precipitous plummet in approval rating which prince george and his goons [the dreaded republican party] have experienced, this election season should be a breeze for the galant and handsome democrats. Why oh why have the mighty fallen you might ask? Why is it the democrats turn? Because the republicans already had two full terms to impress their intolerance and pigheadedness on the nation. It's time for the broom of pure democracy to sweep away the dust bunnies of injustice.

I think that the democratic party should do well this election, and hopefully show the american people what they are made of. Maybe then we can forgo hideous disasters like the Bush administration.

wanna read it?

Obama campaign pursued by Ohio Armenians

Police arrested the young man, Davit Zakaryan, and charged him with driving without a valid driver's license and with possession of a concealed weapon, which turned out to be an ornamental knife that was found not on his person but in his car.

Obama's staff appeared to learn of the arrest from reporters in another Iowa town and kept their distance from the entire affair, which seemed to be quickly downplayed by Obama's Secret Service detail. Secret Service representatives have referred calls to the local police, who tried to minimize any notion of a security risk.

He said in an interview that he saw in the lobby that the Obama campaign was over there.. he thought he would wait a little and they would finish their job and he would ask them for directions.

When an Obama aide declined to give him directions, he said, he asked whether "we can go together" and then returned to his car, where he was arrested. He said he was told there were no judges in small, rural Wapello County that day, and that he'd have to wait until the morning to be released. He wound up spending three nights in jail, watching with horror television reports that a man with a knife had been arrested outside Obama's hotel, before a friend posted bail.

I am not sure about real fact because I was not there. But I hope that Obama would campaign without any trouble and yet he should not accuse innocent men(not this case). "He said he was told there were no judges in small, rural Wapello County that day, and that he'd have to wait until the morning to be released." I also think that, for what it's worth, by Iowa standards, Wapello County isn't that small or rural. It's population is 36,000 -- mostly the city of Ottumwa.

Obama-"The Fresh Face" - jane

............."Congress hasn't done a damn thing this year. I'm tired of the politicians blaming each other. We should throw them all out and start over!"
"Including me?" the Senator asks.
A chorus of n-o-o-o-s. "Not you," the man says. "You're brand new." Obama wanders into a casual disquisition about the sluggish nature of democracy. The answer is not even remotely a standard, pretaped political response. He moves through some fairly arcane turf, talking about how political gerrymandering has led to a generation of politicians who come from safe districts where they don't have to consider the other side of the debate, which has made compromise--and therefore legislative progress--more difficult. "That's why I favored Arnold Schwarzenegger's proposal last year, a nonpartisan commission to draw the congressional-district maps in California. Too bad it lost." The crowd is keeping up with Obama, listening closely as he segues into a detailed discussion of the federal budget. Eventually, he realizes he has been filibustering and apologizes to the crowd for "making a speech." No one seems to care, since Obama is doing something pretty rare in latter-day American politics: he is respecting their intelligence. He's a liberal, but not a screechy partisan. Indeed, he seems obsessively eager to find common ground with conservatives. "It's such a relief after all the screaming you see on TV," says Chuck Sweeny, political editor of the Rockford Register Star. "Obama is reaching out. He's saying the other side isn't evil. You can't imagine how powerful a message that is for an audience like this."

-http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1546362,00.html




This article caught my eye because I believe that Obama would be a great President of the United States. He would be a nice change, and a breath of fresh air compared to what we have been going through with out current president. Since Bush's "reign" is almost over, I hope that Obama will become our President, and in November 2008, he will have one more person and vote on his side, me.

Middle Income Donors Giving Big

Many citizens donate money to show support for the candidates. For example, Robert Allen, an unemployed salesman from North Carolina has been donating money to John Edwards whenever he has some extra cash. He says that whenever he writes a check he thinks about his mentally disabled daughter. He donates the cash because he knows that Edwards would support people like his daughter. So far, Allen has donated $319.53 to Edwards, according to Federal Election Commission records released Sunday. He is part of an explosion in the number of small-dollar donors who are sending money to the 2008 presidential candidates.


I think that citizens shouldn't donate money to the candidates or should donate less. Most of the candidates are already wealthy from the first place. If they have extra cash they should just donate them to charity or for a better cause to help save people's lives.

Republicans Losing Ground in ’08 Race

With only a few month away from the 2008 presidential election, Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton now holds a slight lead over top Republican Rudy Giuliani for the first time in a possible 2008 presidential matchup. Besides Clinton, fellow Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama beat every Republican candidate they are tested against in the latest FOX News Poll. On the other hand, the support for President Bush has dropped greatly which pretty much shows that he can do little to give Republicans a boost as his own ratings remain dismal. His current approval is just 1 point higher than his record-low 31 percent approval received last month. In seven different head-to-head matchups, the poll shows the Democratic candidate tops the Republican. Voters say they would back Clinton over Giuliani if the election were held today. Clinton also leads McCain by 3 points, Romney by 15 points and Fred Thompson by 9 points.

I believe that the Democrats have a great chance of winning next year's presidential election. The latest poll has obviously shown us how more voters are starting to lean towars Clinton and Obama putting Giuliani and his fellow Republicans in great risk. I think that the biggest reason why the Republicans are losing so much support in recent months is mainly due to the management of the Iraq War by the Bush administration. They've been continuing to keep the U.S. troops in Iraq and have not given us a specific date of withdrawal. However, the election won't happen in months and things can still change. There is still a chance that the Republicans can bounce back.

Opportunity 08

The election of 2008 seems not just about the leadership and the commitment the candidates would put in but the issues they support and what they're opinions are about. Critical issues facing the nation like abortion, global warming, immigration, war, etc., the deficit and 2008 election of 2008 will have a impact on the political landscape. So, the Brookings Institution has launched Opportunity 08, a new project to provide ideas and information on a broad range of public policy topics facing America's next president. ABC is also going to team up with opportunity 08 and help Americans get updated and depth information about the candidates and their views.

I think this is a great idea. Since Americans want the president to have the same opinion about these types of issues that we face today, we would have a better understanding of the candidates. This would allow us to make better choices and vote for the right person.

US Actor Running for President

Fred Thompson , a famous actor, is running for president in the Republicans. Thompson is well known to many voters through his role as district attorney Arthur Branch in TV crime series Law & Order. He is a former two-term senator for Tennessee who left politics in 2002 to return to acting. Even though he entered late to run, polls suggest he can compete with the front-runners.

I think it is interesting that an actor is running to be the president. It would be even more interesting if he wins. Even though it seems like he doesn't really fit into a role of a president he seems like he has a pretty good chance of winning.

Clinton scolds Bush on aid to localities

Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton said that the Bush administration had broken historic partnerships between local governments and the federal government and promised to support a range of federal aid to localities, including health insurance for children and funding for community development.
The former first lady promised about 2,500 elected county officials attending the National Association of Counties annual convention that she and a Democratic Congress would expand the child health insurance program for 9 million uninsured children if she wins next year's election.

Clinton said that county governments have coped with 45 million Americans who have no health coverage and the president was ignoring the Americans for the last 6 1/2 years.
The campaign of Senator Hillary Clinton issued a press announcing her "Mayors Council" - a list of more than 100 present and former mayors who have endorsed her candidacy.

It is good to see how Hillary Clinton is being confident and pointing out problems that the government has to solve before the election. I believe that a President should be someone who always put US first, not oneself. I hope that a candidate who will become president does not change once he or she is elected.

Oprah Winfrey to raise money for Obama

According to campaign spokesman Dan Pfeiffer, Oprah Winfrey who is talk show host planed to hold a September 8th fundraiser for Democratic Barack Obama at her palatial estate near Santa Barbara, California.
Obama has raised more than $58 million for his White House bid. Forbes magazine estimates that Winfrey, the Chicago-based host who boasts a lot more, including a magazine, is worth $1.5 billion.
Oprah is a well-known fan of Obama. She even called him "my favorite guy" and "my choice" on CNN's "Larry King Live" last year before he announced that he would run for president.

I think that the frienship between Winfrey and Obama is nice, but I believe that a famous talk show host is unnecessary to be involved on presidential election and earning money for a candidate, not in private. Many people in the United States could get affected by what Oprah Winfrey does. It's important to be careful because some people might misunderstand their friendship in different way.

Richardson says Clinton isn't the only women's candidate

Presidential Bill Richardson said that he will not concede the women's vote to rival candidate Hillary Clinton and opened his courtship of the crucial Democratic voting bloc by pledging to protect the right to abortion.
The New Mexico governor and former Clinton Cabinet member launched his Women for Richardson effort with pledges to support pay equity, back limited Social Security credit for family leave, and appoint judges who would uphold abortion rights.

Wilson endorses Clinton
Clinton has won the endorsement of Joseph Wilson, the retired diplomat whose outspoken critique of the Bush administration's march to war in Iraq led administration officials to identify his wife, Valerie Plame Wilson, as a CIA operative.
The Clinton campaign took the unusual step of announcing the endorsement on a conference call with bloggers -a reflection of Wilson's popularity among the antiwar left and bloggers' fascination with the Plame Wilson case.

Looking at these articles, I feel that many candidates might have fear of Hilary Clinton. They can be divided in two ways: one way is to support Clinton and another way is to against her which is not smart in my personal opinion. Richardson said this to make against her advantage but I think that it would not work that well.

McCain warns against leaving Iraq

Republican John McCain told Christians who support evangelism of Israel that withdrawing troops from Iraq will be the most consequential disasters for US.
McCain is being a strong war supporter. McCain said backing the Democratic-sponsored measure and withdrawing would be to "declare defeat and allow Al Qaeda to obtain victory." Staying and stabilizing Iraq could help ensure the safety of Israel and the Middle East, he said, winning loud applause.
McCain said he is worried that "mismanagement of the conflict after our initial victory" in Iraq has helped strengthen US enemies.

I think that just staying Iraq does not ensure the safety of American soldiers. Too many American soldiers are dying. I think that a new president should be an anti-war governor unlike McCain.

Edwards pushes better education for poor

In Pittsburgh, democratic presidential candidate John Edwards called for measures to strengthen education for poor children and make schools more economically diverse in order to fight poverty.

Edwards traveled in hurricane-ravaged New Orleans, said the tour had shown him that there were different aspects of poverty across the country.
In a radio interview, Edwards said he believed President Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney had engaged in "illegal behavior," but he sidestepped a question about whether Bush should be impeached.
I am glad with what he did. But I personally think that Edwards has to take action more than just pusing; he could ignore them after he becomes President.

Antiterror aid to Mass. drops again

Massachusetts is going to see a decline in federal money and it receives to help cities and towns buy equipment and train emergency workers for possible terrorist attacks, according to a law enforcement official briefed by the US Department of Homeland Security.
The department announced that Massachusetts will receive approximately $34 million in homeland security grants for first responders this fiscal year, which began last October, down from $41 million the previous fiscal year.

I am glad that they get financial support from government. I think that improvement is good but it should be equal to all states.

Galvin measure seeks to toughen rules on lobbying

Secretary William Galvin called for raised regulation of Beacon Hill lobbyists, who through the first half of this year have earned more than $33 million and are on track to match or break last year's spending level, according to reports filed this week.
Galvin filed legislation that would require the state's many registered lobbyists to provide more detailed written reports of their expenses, payments, and hours with clients.
The bill would permit the secretary's office to immediately revoke a lobbyist's license for late reports, as well as report the lobbyist to the attorney general's office for any matters requiring criminal action.

I agree with Galvin. I think that lobbying should be punished seriously because the lobbyists are people who just want to take advantage of the fact that they are rich.

Bush Is Prepared to Veto Bill to Expand Child Insurance

President Bush would veto a bipartisan plan to expand the Children’s Health Insurance Program, drafted over the last six months by senior members of the Senate Finance Committee.

The vow puts Mr. Bush at odds with the Democratic majority in Congress, with a substantial number of Republican lawmakers and with many governors of both parties, who want to expand the popular program to cover some of the nation’s eight million uninsured children.


I think that President Bush made wrong decision because children are important and his action shows that he is ignoring children. I do not understand him. He was willing to grant amnesty to 20 million illegal immigrants. And yet he is not willing to expand insurance for American children?

The YouTube-ification of politics: Candidates losing control

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- It was one of the most talked about moments in the 2006 campaign: "Lets give a welcome to Macaca, here. Welcome to America and the real world of Virginia."

Former Sen. George Allen, R-Virginia, knows firsthand the effect YouTube has had on politics.

That was then-Virginia Republican Sen. George Allen's controversial remark to a young campaign aide working for Allen's opponent, Democrat Jim Webb. The comment was caught on camera by the Webb aide, and was put on YouTube. It became a smash hit.

Allen was expected to cruise to re-election, but thanks in part to the YouTube video, Allen lost his seat by just a few thousand votes to Webb. His loss, along with the razor thin defeat of Sen. Conrad Burns, R-Montana -- who had his own damaging moments on YouTube -- helped swing control of the Senate to the Democrats.

Gotcha moments on YouTube, unauthorized campaign videos and hard-hitting debate questions from YouTube users are changing the political landscape. The YouTube "Macaca moment" represents a broad new challenge for candidates, but speaks to the age-old problem of how to control the message.

the internet is definitely going to affect the turnout for the 2008 elections... because now you can upload any video onto youtube and within 10 seconds there will be thousands of views.. this is going to be extremely crucial to peoples campaigns.. I really hope they dont do anything wrong infront of the camera because it may just cost them their election

Lawmakers upbeat about state budget

SACRAMENTO - Legislative leaders on Wednesday spent a second day in lengthy negotiations over a $140 billion state budget and said they were optimistic they would strike a deal before the end of the week.

Earlier in the day, Democratic leaders of the Senate and Assembly canceled scheduled votes in their respective houses that would have signaled an impasse with Republicans.

It was not clear exactly what concessions the two sides had discussed behind closed doors. But after three of the leaders unexpectedly emerged for a walk around the Capitol grounds, Senate Minority Leader Dick Ackerman said Republicans had proposed an across-the-board cut of 1percent to 2percent for all state agencies as a possible way to end the 18-day budget standoff.

Republicans have been holding out for $2 billion in cuts, while Democrats want to preserve funding, especially for education and social service programs.

I definitely support the democrats on this.. if the republicans cut the $2 billion dollars then our schools will definitely not have money nor will anything else.. they should not cut funds for anything.

the below post was from:

http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/06/26/senate.unions.ap/index.html?iref=newssearch

El Monte May Update Phone Taxes

EL MONTE - Voters could decide in November if they want to reduce portions of the city's utility tax, while expanding it to include newer telecommunications technologies.

The El Monte City Council on Tuesday approved language for a proposed ballot proposition, which would reduce the telecommunications portion of the tax to 6.5 percent, from the current 7percent. The tax would remain at 7 percent for other utilities paid in the city, including electricity, gas and water.

But the measure should not reduce the estimated $3.65 million received annually from phone bills, officials said.

The new language would allow applying the tax to new technologies like Internet phone lines, which did not exist when the tax was first approved by voters in 1997, said City Attorney E. Clarke Moseley.

The tax is already applied to cell phone bills in the city, said Deputy City Attorney Richard Padilla.

The council voted against expanding the half-percent tax reduction to utilities other than telecommunications following statements from Detective Brian Glick, a representative from the El Monte Police Officers Association.

I think that reducing phone taxes would be great for the city of El Monte because everyone in the U.S. has a home phone let alone a cell phone. And it will be good for people because they already pay for two phone bills a home and a cell and it would save them quite a bit of money over time.

Republicans Blocking Bill Might Affect Election

Senate Republicans blocked a bill that would allow labor unions to organize workplaces without a secret ballot election. Democrats weren't able to get the 60 votes needed to force consideration of the Employee Free Choice Act, ending organized labor's chance to win its top legislative priority from Congress. The White House had also said that if this went through it was going to be vetoed anyway. The GOP plans to use the vote for election-year campaigning, with corporations and businesses being the top opponents to the legislation. This is considered to effect the election.

I think this will effect the election. People who wanted the labor union bill to pass would probably refuse to vote. I also think that this would bring up many protests and arguments.

Al-Qaeda eyes Iraq ties for U.S. attack

Top U.S. security agencies highlight ‘persistent and evolving threat’

Al-Qaeda is using its growing strength in Pakistan and Iraq to plot attacks on U.S. soil, heightening the terror threat facing the United States over the next few years, intelligence agencies concluded in a report unveiled Tuesday.
At the same time, the intelligence analysts worry that international cooperation against terrorism will be hard to sustain as memories of Sept. 11 fade and nations’ views diverge on what the real threat is.
In the report prepared for President Bush and other top policymakers, analysts laid out a range of dangers — from al-Qaida to Lebanese Hezbollah to non-Muslim radical groups — that pose a “persistent and evolving threat” to the country over the next three years.

I think that it's depends on how it's done. If it's just fighting it would be in the tens of thousands IMO. If we were willing to withdraw then drop some monster bombs, probably a couple of nukes, then no. But you wouldn't be willing to do that. I also have feeling that our adnministration isn't on the side of the American people.

‘Volunteer’ program pads healthy perks

A much-hyped program that gives state workers up to a dozen paid days off per year to “volunteer” in a wide variety of community activities gives another perk to employees who already have one of the most generous benefit packages in the country.
Massachusetts is tied for sixth nationally in the number of paid holidays for state workers with 13, including the Suffolk County-only holidays Evacuation Day and Bunker Hill Day.
Former GOP Gov. Mitt Romney, now running for president, tried unsuccessfully to abolish those two holidays and a spokesman says the 12 paid volunteer days being trumpeted by Democratic Gov. Deval Patrick are yet another taxpayer-funded giveaway.

If it's properly monitored, it amounst a generous and unbiased grant to numerous nonprofit groups, and my guess is that many church charities will benefit. I don't think many people will abuse the benefit since to do so would amount to exploiting a nonprofit. When you "volunteer", you don't get paid.

Deval seeks speedier Dig fixes: Administration puts $1.2M behind effort to fast-track repairs

The Patrick administration that has been frustrated by Big Dig incompetence has spent $1.2 million on a stepped-up effort to plug tunnel leaks and has rebuffed project officials who circulated a confidential memo to downplay the problem, the Herald has learned. This article explains how Transportation Secretary Bernard Cohen calls for an independent review of the tunnel leak repairs to determine the scope of the problem and who should pay for the ongoing work. He called for the review one day after receiving a closed-door briefing in which project officials suggested the leaks are not the primary source of high water volumes in the Big Dig tunnels. The project pumped about 1.9 million gallons of water from the tunnel per month between January and March of this year, up from 1.6 million during the same period last year.
I think that putting a lot of money into a tunnel leak repairs is important but I hope that the Patrick administration care not for only the tunnel but people who are in need.

Presidential campaign money gap widens

Senator Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton, have set the bars for the funding of their election while leaving other candidates with scraps. It has been shown in history that money does not determine the outcome of the race, and does not buy votes. The "bandwagon effect" is taking place in the election when people see a specific candidate being successful by raising large funds for their campaign, they tend to donate to that candidate more. The race of president has established the gap between the rich and the poor in the campaigning of the 2008 election candidates.

I believe that money is a main aspect in the running of presidency as it appears to be a necessity in order to be successful. There are many well qualified candidates that have dropped out of the election due to the lack of funding for their campaign, such as Jim Gilmore. The absence of money limits a candidate's ability to have a successful running. As stated in the article by veteran Democratic strategist, Bill Carrick, "Most campaigns don't lose, they just run out of money." I believe that all candidates should have equal sums of funding for their campaign, which in turn would then eliminate unfair advantages that some may have over others.

Republicans May Have to Pay the Price for the Immigration Bill

The Senate Republicans defeated the immigration reform. Registered Hispanic voters which numbers over 9 million, are poised to make a show of force in the 2008 presidential election. The defeat of immigration reform at the hands of the GOP sends a message to the growing Latino population that they are not welcome in the Republican Party. But with dissatisfaction over the fall of the immigration bill, the republicans might not be able to get many Latinos votes as they wish.

I think this will make a great impact on the 2008 elections. Since the population of Hispanics are already huge and still growing, the votes of the people will probably decline a lot.

Fire a Friend or Take the Risk

President Bush's popularity is at a low point and the potential political liability of keeping attorneys around is making some Republicans nervous. Now that Bush has already fired eight attorneys, the decision of firing of Gonzales is the center of attention in Washington. Gonzales, 51, has been a Bush confidant and friend for more than a decade. But with at least a dozen senators clamoring for Gonzales to go, how long will Bush be able to defend his embattled attorney general?

I think that President Bush will take the risk to save his friend, Gonzales. He has faced similar problems before when he nominated another member of his inner circle, White House Counsel Harriet Miers, to a seat on the Supreme Court. Miers' nomination was pulled after political support crumbled amid questions about her credentials and a dispute over whether senators should have access to internal documents she penned while working in the White House. But he still kept her in.

Clinton Backs Clinton

Former President Bill Clinton is now making major appearences with wife, Hillary Clinton, as she continues to campaign for the Presidential Election in 2008. They began there "tour" in Iowa, a crucial state because it is one of the first states that choose the candidate from each party to run for president. Mr. Clinton said his wife was the "best qualified non-incumbent I have ever had a chance to vote for president." They are continuing to concentrate on fundraising and making pubic appearences together. Next stop, New Hampshire.
I applaud Hillary Clinton on her part to use Clinton's popularity or his "title" to gain funds and to have success in her campaign. Lets just hope that Bill will help her side instead of hurt it.

Kucinich Rips Edwards on Debate Remarks

Democrat Dennis Kuchinich, who just recently joined the race, lashed out at fellow democratic candidate John Edwards on Friday. He said to him that he showed a "consistent lack of integrity" but suggesting fewer candidates should participate in presidential forums.
"This is a serious matter and I'm calling him on it," Kucinich, an Ohio congressman, said in a telephone interview Friday. "Whispering, trying to rig an election, then denying what's going on and making excuses. It all reflects a consistent lack of integrity."
Kucinich said this after Edwards and Clinton were overheard on Thursday talking about the possibility of limiting the number of participants in the future.
Kucinich, who typically polls in the low single digits, clearly felt the slight was directed at him. All eight Democratic contenders took part in the program, including Barack Obama, Bill Richardson, Chris Dodd, Joe Biden, Mike Gravel and Kucinich.

i think that it is right for Kucinich to lash out at Edwards like he did because he has strong viewpoints and has the chance to be a strong contender. For Edwards and Clinton to say the things they did i feel is unfair because they are the front runners and to not give anyone else a chance is not right.

Divisions Over Iraq Extend to 2008 Race

Divisions over Iraq extended to the presidential campaign during the Senate's all-night debate, with Republican John McCain backing up President Bush's war strategy as Democratics demand troop withdrawals.

"Our defeat there would be catastrophic, not just for Iraq, but for us," the Arizona senator said Wednesday. "As long as we have a chance to succeed we must try to succeed."

In a speech just after 4 a.m., Democratic candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton argued: "It is time for us to move our troops out of harm's way in the middle of the Iraqi civil war."

The two were among several White House hopefuls in the Senate who participated in a marathon debate before voting on a Democratic-led measure ordering a drawdown in forces. The 52-47 vote fell short of the 60 votes needed to cut off debate under Senate rules.

Presidential candidates voted mostly along party lines, with McCain and Sen. Sam Brownback, R-Kan., opposing the measure, while Clinton and Sens. Barack Obama of Illinois, Chris Dodd of Connecticut and Joe Biden of Delaware supporting it. Sen. Chuck Hagel, a Nebraska Republican flirting with a bid, sided with the Democrats.

I think that it is a very good sign on the Democrats part that they wanted to move troops out. I think everyone in this country is sick of this war and just wants it to end. I think because the democratic candidates are trying to get troops out, they will win a LOT of peoples votes.

Edwards and Obama Shift Focus to Poverty

Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama challenged John Edwards' claim as the anti-poverty candidate on Wednesday and reminded voters of his experience working with the inner-city poor.

Meanwhile, Edwards is going on an eight state poverty tour. Both of these candidates invoked democratic icon, Robert F. Kennedy, who 40 years ago in the presidential election brought attention to the poor. Edwards said during the tour he wants "America to remember what he did decades ago. i want you to join us to end the work Bobby Kennedy started." Obama alluded to Kennedy's tour and repeated a question Kennedy once said, "How can a country like this allow it?" it is evident that both candidates feel strongly about the poverty problem.

I think that it is amazing we have candidates that are bringing attention to the povery problem and i agree with Obama in his quesiton. How could we allow the things that are happening here? I am glad that they are bringing up these issues because it shows their concern for the whole nation and concern for the things that have been ignored and neglected for the past eight years.

Edwards Wife In the Spotlight!

Elizabeth Edwards is back in the spotlight, again.

The wife of the Democratic presidential hopeful from North Carolina, John Edwards, is taking the starring role in a new campaign commercial for her husband.

“You’re not going to outsmart him. He works harder than any human being that I know, always has, “ says Edwards, in the television ad now playing in the crucial early primary state of New Hampshire.

For Edwards, who’s battling cancer, it’s another moment in the spotlight. Earlier this week she fired away at Hillary Clinton, telling the on-line magazine Salon that “sometimes you feel you have to behave as a man and not talk about women’s issues. I’m sympathetic; she wants to be commander in chief. But she’s just not as vocal a women’s advocate as I want to see. John is.”

“Despite her battle with cancer, Elizabeth Edwards refuses to be a shrinking violet,” says CNN Political Editor Mark Preston. He also says “this was definitely a shot across Clinton’s bow and there’s no question Elizabeth Edwards is her husband’s biggest political asset, especially when it comes to women voters.”

The most recent CNN-Opinion Research Corporation national poll of Democratic women finds Hillary Clinton far ahead of John Edwards. The Senator from New York was the choice for president among 45 percent of the Democratic women polled June 22-24. Senator Barack Obama was second with 25 percent and Edwards far behind at 11 percent.

This is not the first time Elizabeth Edwards has gone after Clinton. Last October she compared herself to Clinton, saying “we both went to law school and married other lawyers, but after that we made other choices. I think my choices have made me happier. I think I’m more joyful than she is.” After her comments made national headlines, Edwards reached out to apologize to Clinton.

wow this is pretty intense specially the way she went off on Hilary Clinton.. but its good that candidates wives are involved.. its actually pretty interesting on what they have to say on other candidates.

McCain snaps: ‘Finished’ discussing campaign

A frustrated Sen. John McCain snapped Wednesday when asked by CNN about his troubled presidential campaign and vowed he would no longer answer questions on that topic.

“I’m not going to talk about my campaign anymore,” McCain said in a sharp tone. “I’m finished with talking about it. I’ve talked about it for two weeks. I will not discuss it or any aspect of it. Thank you.”

McCain’s patience may have been worn thin by his lack of sleep as he managed the Defense authorization bill through the wee hours of the morning.

The question that triggered McCain’s response was whether or not he was going to keep a scheduled meeting Wednesday with his congressional supporters to explain why his campaign is not in dire condition. Eileen McMenamin, the Arizona Republican’s spokeswoman, declined to elaborate whether McCain would no longer talk – ever – about his campaign or just not talk about it while in the Capitol. But she did say he remains a candidate and will be back on the trail next week – with reporters in tow.

I can definitely understand why mccain would snap.. I would be a little grouchy too if i had little sleep and I had a dozen reporters asking me questions about my campaign and how it was ruined.

Web Address for Post Below

http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-na-mccain15jul15,1,4312857.story?coll=la-politics-campaign&ctrack=1&cset=true

McCain looks to focus on New Hampshire

John McCain is starting to return to New Hampshire, which he plans to win over in the state's primary as he did back in 2000. Back in 200 his win was over George W. Bush, but now he feels like he must return and remind these people of why they liked him. He plans to go to the people, even if it consists of many small house parties. But there is also another thing hovering over McCain and that is that recent polls are beginning to show that New Hampshire is no longer filled with the independent voters that helped him back in 2000. These polls are beginning to show that these would- be supporters are leaning towards voting in the Democratic primary in New Hampshire.

I personally think that McCain needs to set his goals higher than small house parties in New Hampshire, for numerous reasons. He needs to make sure that he gets more support from other states, and correct me if I'm wrong, but focusing on one state so much will not get him that many votes in the long run. Although his method of giving people answers to questions face to face is a great personal connect, at the same itme it doesn't go very far when you need millions of votes.

Obama Catches Up to Clinton

Democrat Barack Obama raised $25 million for his presidential bid in the first three months of 2007, placing him on a par with front-runner candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton and ruining her image as the party's inevitable nominee. Obama fundrasing number came from an official in his campaign who spoke on condition of anonymity. This made Obama an even more fierce competitor in this election. People are saying these facts are showing that he is a "powerful new force in presidential politics this year." People are beginning to see that he is a significant threat to Clinton.

i think that Obama is a very strong contender in the election and i think that he is strengthening his status as a significant threat to Clinton. Plus i agree with Obamas strong believe to get troops out of Iraq.

Duncan hunter giving up House seat for shot to be Pres.

Duncan Hunter, a very small name in this 2008 presidential election. He is all over the place. He is very unorganized and he is giving up a very important seat in the House to try to gain presidency, which is looking unlikely right now. Over the first six months of 2007, he has only raised 1.2 million dollars. Other candidates dwarf this number in their donations. He has no organization in Iowa, where organization is essential to success. His election team is made up of eight volunteers and they are doing very bad. he basically has no media coverage at all, except for one reporter following him around...and Hunter's team forgot to tell the reporter that plans have changed so on the second day of campaigning, Hunter and the reporter were in cities 45 miles apart. He is giving up his seat because he believes that his time has come to run for presidency.
Hunter's family has been very honorable throughout the past. His father served in World War II and he served in Vietnam himself. This is why he is running for presidency because he feels so strongly about the Iraq War.

In my opinion, Hunter should have kept his seat in the House and let the not necessarily more expeirienced people run it, but the people with better finances.

Biden: We're Going to Shove Bush Veto Down His Throat

Senator Joseph Biden, a democratic presidential candidate in the 08 election, recently told a supporter that after President Bush vetoes the Iraq war funding legislation, "we're going to shove it down his throat." This was at an annual fish fry event on friday, where a question and answer session was being held with Biden. He was asked "When he vetoes the bill, what's going to be the next version of the bill you send him?" and replied with a threat towards the president.
WATCH THIS CLIP ON YOUTUBE!

tight. i think i like this guy, although he seems a little unprofessional for the position of president.

Firefighters Blasts former New York Mayor DUN DUN DUN

The country's largest firefighting union bashes about former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani's performance about September 11, 2001. They aim a blow at the cornerstone of Giuliani's presidential campaign. The relatives and survivors of the 9/11 blamed Giuliani on lack of radio gear. They said if there were enough radio gears, they could've ordered the firefighters to evacuate and saved more than 100 lives. "He gave us nothing when we needed a life-saving radio," says Peter Gorman, a former local president. The firefighters first reported problems with their radio gear after the 1993 bombing. But later that year when Giuliani became the mayor he did nothing to resolve that problem between the 8 years. "He's not a leader," said retired Deputy Chief Jim Riches, whose son was killed in the 2001 attack. "He's running on 9/11, and it's all a fallacy."

I think these criticism of Rudy Giuliani will definately effect the presidential elections. Many people have lost relatives or known the people who lost their lives during the 9/11. If this word gets around that Giuliani was able to save more lives if it wasn't for him, I think that many people would go against him.

Romney spends big money

Rich man Mitt Romney, planning on running in the 2008 elections has been spending big money in early states recently. He is doing this to win over voters in states where there will be early voting. He is slowing growing in Iowa and New Hampshire, but it has been costly for him. He has raised 21 million dollars in donations and spent nearly all of it in the second quarter of 2007. This isn't looking good for him, his rival, Rudolph Guliani spend half that much in the second quarter of 2007 and he is doing just as well. Romney has already spend about 31.8 million dollars in the first half yer that he has been campaigning for presidency. Romney is spending money like crazy. Four years ago Bush raised 35 million and only spent 2.7 million and by the end of the second quarter 8 years ago Bush raised 37 million and only spent 7.2 million.

Romney is spending money like a madman and he better hope it pays off.

In my opinion i think that spending this much money is unecessary, but it shows that Romney really wants the position of presidency.

The Reverend Who Preaches to Candidates

Reverend Frank Page, president of a 16.3-million-member Southern Baptist Convention and leader of a large congregation, makes it a hobby to talk to local and presidential candidates about salvation. He says that that leaders need to see a Christian viewpoint and thus offers to share his own. He never endorses the candidates, keeping the conversation on religion and salvation to Christ. He has chatted with many candidates so far, including Rudolph W. Giuliani, a vilified Democratic who supports abortion. Rev. Page is quite different from other reverends, who would rather stay out of politics altogether.

I believe that this man is doing a good thing; he is teaching these candidates -- politicians who are perhaps unethical in their election campaigns -- morals and ethics. However, I think that the candidates may want to take the opportunity to talk to this reverend to gain the votes of his congregation, a hefty number of people. It seems quite random to take time off campaigning to listen to spiritual teachings but hopefully they can learn a thing or two about integrity and ethics.

Ron Paul emerges as GOP's unlikely rock-star candidate

Ron Paul is emerging as a very strong candidate among the younger crowd. He was a part of a rock concert and was cheered by the crowd as he announced his plans of abolishment of the federal reserve system. According to one young enthusiast, "'He's consistent,' said Jennifer Reilly, a 23-year-old student at the College of Southern Nevada who attended a recent rally here. 'I actually believe everything he says.'"
I feel that a strong leader is essential for the U.S. right now, especially since we are in such a state of turmoil and distrust. Ron Paul seems to be gathering steam--even though many experienced and older people feel that his policies are a bit ridiculous--because his ideals are popular among the young generations. If Ron Paul does become a stong contender for the election, I feel that it would be a breath of fresh political air, I hope that he will become more popular so some of his ideology will rub off on the other candidates.

the presidential candidates on immigration

As congress debates on comprehensive immigration bill the presidential candidates are also trying to play importance roles upon that bill. Cod is one of the candidates. He said that he will accept the basic idea of border security and we need to get corporation with Mexico for this. And we should put more meaningful penalties on a business owner who hires illeger immigrants or undocumented people. however, he is not convinced in raising minimum wages and doing other thing than immigration bill. For example, he question on pathway to citizenship and growing population. He is interested in workers program and agricultural cases.

I basically agree with his opinion about the immigration bill. Forming corporation with Mexico is a good idea to solve immigrant problem. But in the other hand, he should concern about the other issues as well as the presidential candidate. This his speech is released on May 3. He should show more his thoughts about the politic.

http://www.nytimes.com/ref/washington/IMMIGRATIONPOSITIONS.html

Police ask voters for pay increase

Sierra Madre police officer's are hoping that voters will approve a ballot in november which will give them higher pay. The police officers gathered 1,767 signatures which is more than the required 25 percent of the city's 7,500 voters, needed in order to earn its place on the ballot. The ballot, which is named the "Prioritizing Public Safety" initiative, is trying to give local police and annual pay increase of more than 20 percent.
http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/news/ci_6398625


I believe this is a great idea for the police officers to get a pay raise. Police officers risks their lives daily and are constantly helping to keep us safe so why not give them better pay?

McCain Slips in Money Race for '08 Election

Arizona Senator John McCain disclosed Monday that he has raised $11.2 million in the second quarter of 2007. this is significantly low considering what he raised in the first 90 days of the year. This is causing a round of staff cuts and people beginning to think his campaign is troubled. McCains campaign was meant to be up to $100 million this year but in the first 6 months, it was only at the $25 million point.another sign of McCains troubled campaign is the fact that he had $1.8 million in unpaid bills earlier this year.

"We confronted reality and we dealt with it in the best way that we could so that we could move forward," McCain campaign manager Terry Nelson said in a conference call with reporters.

Its been said that McCain has let go 50 of his staff members. He first had 150 paid employees.

McCain's quest "is certainly getting close to toast. It is browning on the edges," said political scientist Bruce Cain, director of the University of California Washington Center in the nation's capital.


In my opinion, i think that McCains financing problems are a reason to believe that these issues in his campaign could be brought up again during his presidency. I think that since he is having such trouble raising the money he needs and having to make staff cuts twice, he should not be involved in the 08 elections. These financial problems if brought into the white house could cause us an even bigger deficit than we have now....which i dont think anyone thought was possible.

D.C. endorsements may not play in Peoria

Obama campaign claims they won't make the same mistakes as Howard Dean did in 2004. He won't take an early endorsement from D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty or members of the D.C. council. In 2004, during a convention, Fenty told the media tht Howard Dean supported gay marriage. However, when Fenty anounced it, Dean corrected it by saying he announcing that he doesn't support it. Dean skipped the city's first debate in Dec. 29 and first-in-the-nation primary Jan. 13. He undoubtly seemed to have lost the race by March. Dean needed a votes from the African American community to sell himself to minorities even if they aren't in a state.

In my opnion, because Dean rudely interupted Fenty's speech that he didn't support gay marriage, that probably cost him votes. This is a warning for Obama not to the do the same.

McCain Bid '08 losing steam

John McCain's presidential campaign is beginning to show. Even though it still doesn't show signs that he is coming up in the polls, he is still continuing his campaign. Unfortunately his party fundraisers have been resentful with his refusal to say that his campaign finance law was a mistake. this mistake hurt the right of free speech. he is also having trouble getting support from people even in his own party.

in my opinion, John McCain should not have a finance law because that would have the people not express their views and opinions. i also think that McCain is not doing so well in the polls because of the things that he is doing that are causing people to get angry at him.

He backs Clinton; her backers help him

Shortly after supporting Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's presidential campaign, former Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack received nearly $90,000 in donations to his no longer existing presidential campaign from some of Clinton's major supporters. The donations came from Clinton fundraising programs of New York, California, Texas, and Washington, D.C. However, nothing came from Iowa, where Vilsack served his two terms as governor. Vilsack, who was not able to have enough money for the presidential campaign, withdrew from the Democratic race in February. In March he supported Clinton, and his Democratic organization is able to give her a chance of winning in Iowa six months from now. Clinton campaign spokesman Phil Singer said that Clinton had made it clear early "we were going to help retire the debt" but that Clinton did not receive Vilsack's support because of any offer or deal. "The Clintons and Gov. Vilsack have a long history," Singer said. "She offered to do whatever she could to help him close out his campaign." Vilsack spokeswoman Kiki McClean said the former governor "endorsed Sen. Clinton because he believes she is the best person to be president." She said "it's not surprising" that Democratic donors would back Clinton and Vilsack.

This article was able to demonstrate that even through elections, Clinton was able to support one of her candidates financially. Vilsack was not able to afford much for the campaign, so he dropped out, which I find ridiculous because money shouldn't be a problem if a person has what it takes to be a great president. But as he dropped out, she supported him without having him give her something in return. She did this due to her kindness of her heart. Vilsack knows this so out of his heart and not money, he helps her in getting Iowa's votes. He also knows that she will make a great president as well. Through this article, one is able to see that Clinton is a fair candidate that cares for others instead of being a selfish candidate that does anything to bring her other candidates down. Election is a time filled with stress and anxiety, but she is still able to help someone in need. I chose this article to see how Clinton is doing in her campaign because I am glad to see a woman step up and change history by running for presidency.

YouTube follows the campaign trail

http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/la-et-webelect6jul06,1,3554147.story

The campaigns by the presidential candidates are now not only limited to their speeches and TV talks, but the campaigns are now extended to the use of Internet, such as YouTube. Looking back at the election of 2004, the Web Videos were not available during those days; YouTube was introduced three years ago. Therefore, in the election of 2008, the tactics of campaigning has been changed dramatically. For example, Amber Lee Ettinger, a.k.a. Obama Girl, who posted up her Web Video "I Got a Crush on Obama," has gotten more than two million hits in last three weeks. This is one of the most watched political videos this season. Some videos posted up don't have anything to do with the issues, but they are to familiarize the people with the candidates.

I believe the use of YouTube is actually beneficial to the election. Although some videos that are posted up have no relevance whatsoever with the issues of the candidates, through the use of YouTube, more people are allowed to get access to the issues of the candidates. More people are educated because of the use of YouTube. I think the benefit of using the YouTube outweighs its cost.

Poll: 'None of the above' leads GOP field

There is no currently leading Republican presidential candidate. The latest polls have shown that nearly 1/4 of Republicans are unwilling to back up Rudy Giuliani, Fred Thompson, John McCain or Mitt Romney. Unlike the Republicans, the Democrats think that three or four candidate nominations is allowable. Republicans just won't agree on who to back up the most and they are uncompromising in their decision to have one frontrunner who shares their views. Giuliani's popularity has been dropping, currently at a 21% compared to the 35% in March. Thompson has 19%; McCain has 15%; Romney has 11%. None of these candidates have the full support of Christian evangelicals, a major group within the Republicans.

This article reveals a weakness inside the political parties. Because they are allowed to participate in the nomination process, they have essential powers in deciding who the next president may be. Although there are many ways to nominate a candidate, the Republican party is one of two dominate parties that have been winning elections for over a hundred years. The disagreements within the Republican Party reveal that within the party, differing views on issues are arising. With this differing of opinions, is a splinter party about to emerge? A new political trend may be building with the increased attentions. If the Republicans aren't careful, they may lose the 2008 election and their party's stability.

Kerry will not enter Presidential Race

An emotional Senator John F. Kerry today said he will not run in the 2008 presidential race and vowed to use his Senate perch to hasten an end to the war in Iraq, saying he would work with lawmakers from both parties to reverse President Bush's troop "surge" and force him to withdraw virtually all troops from Iraq by early next year. Kerry's decision to stay out of the presidential race reflects a realization that he would have had an uphill climb in capturing the Democratic nomination, given the other party heavyweights who are already in the race, according to Kerry associates.

If Kerry is elected there will be more room for criticism. Kerry and the democrats will be helpful to defeat Bush. Kerryhad said he will bill by his Massachusetts colleague to require Bush to seek fresh authorization to send additional troops to Iraq and I'm with him on this.

Who is the real Hilary Clinton?

Hilary Clinton is probably the most competent in the field. Virtually, everyone agrees that she should have the best chance of wresting the presidency from the Republicans in 2008 and repairing the damage from the wrecking ball of the Bush presidency. She also has Bill Clinton by her side, a formidable campaigner who took to the road for the first time in Iowa this month.
But behind the scenes, Americans are deeply worried at the prospect of having Hillary (and Bill) back in the White House. While she inspires ordinary women voters, men are not so moved and she has the highest voter-disapproval ratings of any top-tier candidate in the race. She also has a big problem with left-wing feminists.
Americans might well ask who is the real Hillary Clinton? Is Hillary a liberal who has been victimised by a "vast right-wing conspiracy", or a scheming political control-freak who will stop at nothing in her bid to become the first Mrs President?

I don't think people of America should be making a big deal out of this. Try to take a look at it from her perspective, being the only female campaigning for presidency. People shouldn't classify her as a feminist just because she is a strong reperesentitive for the female gender. Heck, she's just trying to make a difference and respects her rights and authority of being a female U.S. citizen.

Loving Politicians

Hillary Rodham Clinton is running for President, there is no doubt about that. However, there have been speculations as to her marriage status with her husband, former President Bill Clinton, who was impeached from office. After starting their campaign train across Iowa the doubt of their marriage not being effective has surpassed the minds of local residents. The couple was very loving in their body language- Bill supporting his wife as she made speeches and took the time to get to know the citizens. It has been heard that there are many skeptical women who don't approve of Hillary's decision to stay with her husband. But after seeing them together on the trail their opinions changed. Campaigning with her husband has allowed Hillary to "effectively double the number of personal contacts made with voters at every campaign stop."

I think that Hillary knows what she is doing when she takes her husband with her on her campaign trail. Understanding that people know her husband, she is playing off of his popularity and enjoying the spotlight herself. She is prepared for the battle of her campaign and Bill seems to enjoy supporting her long the way. What a -now- happy couple.

Rep. Dennis Kucinich Says He Plans to Run for President in 2008

Dennis Kucinich, who unsuccessfully ran for president in the 2004 election, is running again in 2008. He wants to run because he doesn't think his party is pushing hard enough for the end of the war in Iraq, and hopes to do so. He plans to formally announce his plan to run on Tuesday. He says this is because he disagrees with alot of the decisions his fellow party members are making and wants to take actions. Kucinich has strong feelings about ending the war in Iraq and gained a lot of support for this last time he ran. He was recently elected for his sizth term in the House of Representatives.


how cute!! i love dennis kucinich. i remember him from the last election, and i have always agreed with his stand points, and i think he would make a good president because he cares about the people and what is best for them. who can resist that face, really??

Jews and Evangelicals for Giuliani?

Rudy Giuliani, former mayor of New York and current Republican candiate, began his campaign events tuesday at the evangelical Regent University in Virginia Beach where he appeared with the school founder, Pat Robertson. After arrving one hour late, he later spoke to the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington in Rockville, Md. In his visit to both groups, he focused on the threat of "Islamic Terrorists", and expressed strong support for Israel. He began saying that the Democrats are "in denial" about the threat posed by terrorists to the U.S. and drew a line between Nazi Germany and current terrorist groups. He uses emotional and historical effect on the Jewish community, involving Hitler and Nazism in his speech, saying "I'm not going to make that mistake again (Holocaust). If I'm President, I'm not going to let any man destroy Israel."
It has been researched that the Jewish community has been a significant amount of votes in recent elections and for example, it even helped elect President Bush with 25 percent Jewish voters. I think Rudy Giuliani is making an excellent effort to gain success in his campaign. I think using the emotional appeal to obtain voters interests and possibly votes, it is a good strategy and just politics. For more informations and a live video footage of his speech, visit http://blog.washingtonpost.com/campaign-trail/2007/06/jews_evangelicals_for_giuliani.html

Hillary Clinton aims to win over doubters

Hilary Rodham Clinton is trying win over doubters. Clinton convincing doubters among Democratic primary voters is essential for her presidential hopes. Clinton has to change enough hearts and minds among Democratic voters to prove that she can do it on a nationwide. Clinton campaign is already deep into a concerted, poll-tested effort to sway the public conversation about her in the primary states where it matters most. Clinton's carefully polished appearances on the campaign trail and her early reliance on biographical videos and networks of female supporters are all part of a larger strategy battle-tested in upstate New York during two winning Senate campaigns.

I agree with Hillary Clinton because she is being smart and trying to win over the doubters. She is giving her time and convincing doubters.

Oprah to Host Obama Fundraiser

Oprah Winfrey has planned a fundraiser for Barack Obama in her home which is in Santa Barbara. Invitations have been mailed for what is supposed to be a must-attend event for much of California's Democratic elite, especially those in the entertainment industry. The invitations say "Please get back to us soon before it sells out," urging guests to respond as soon as possible. The cost of getting in the door is $2,300, which is the maximum contribution for the primary season. There are incentives for gaining a little extra time to see the candidate. Those who can tap friends and relatives for contributions to Obama's presidential campaign that total at least $25,000 gain entree to a VIP reception. And those who donate at least $50,000 in donations make the cut for a VIP dinner. Oprah endorsed Obama, who she got to know through their mutual home bases in Chicago during the spring--the first time she ever officially embraced a White House contender. She claims "I haven’t done it in the past because ... I didn’t know anybody well enough to be able to say, ‘I believe in this person.’

This article deals with how presidential candidates may raise their money for their campaigns. I chose this article because it was interesting that Oprah decided to help support Obama. Oprah seems like the type of person who is ready for change, like the change of having president to be a woman-Hilary Clinton or an African American-Barack Obama. However, I am surprised that Oprah believes so much in Obama when she just met him during the spring. This does not seem like a lot of time to get to know a person and truly believe this is the right person to serve as the United States President.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/washington/2007/07/oprah-to-host-o.html

McCain Focuses on New Hampshire

On July 14, 2007, John McCain confidently replied, “I can out-campaign any of these guys”. After returning to New Hampshire, John McCain had turned his attention on New Hampshire. He continued to announce to the people, that nothing will stand in the way between him and them, and this confidence originates from his previous victory in 2000, beating George W. Bush by 19 percentage points. However, despite the confidence McCain has in winning, New Hampshire has changed since he won with independent votes and recent polling even suggests that the votes may even go toward Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama.

I believe that John McCain is taking the right step in focusing his attention on New Hampshire because even if he wins in other states, it wouldn’t matter if he can keep the states that originally favored him. His overconfidence may first seem like a downfall that may affect his supporter’s views, but the fact that he returned to New Hampshire to regain support means that he is not as confident as he says he is. John McCain has ran against George W. Bush and though he did not win, he was still able to gain some state’s support and therefore if John McCain can remain confident and focus on new states, but not forget about old states, he will be a competitive candidate for the other candidates.

First GOP Candidate Drops Out

The 57-year-old Republican and Former Virginia Governor, Jim Gilmore, has decided to drop out of the Presidential Election of 2008 due to the lack of funds in support of his campaign. Because of the failure of raising a substantial amount of money to continue his campaign, Gilmore has stated that it "has made it impractical to continue". In addition, Gilmore barely registered in polls as he states, "The reality is, we're raising money in the hundreds of thousands, and the front-runners are raising in the millions." Jim Gilmore was the first out of the 10 GOP presidential candidates to ever drop out.

I believe that money is an unreasonable factor in campaigning due to the disadvantages that it gives to others who are unable to raise enough funds for their campaign. Candidates should not be forced to drop out of the election due to their lack of money, but should have their own decisions to do so. I believe that the issue of money to campaign should not conflict with the capabilities of a qualified candidate.

Campaigns Raise Money Slower Than Spent

In the upcoming presidential election, whoever has more money has the upper hand in winning. Obama is leading with 32.8 million for the Democrats with Hilary Clinton with 32.6 million. For the Republicans, Giuliani raised about 17.3 million. But in order to win the election, candidates need to spend money to advertise and fund their travel around the nation. Obama spent 16 million, Clinton spent 12 million and Giuliani spent 11 million. Other candidates are losing money even quicker. Thompson is in debt $6,000 and Huckabee only has 435,000 left. They are all spending this much money 6 months before the polls.

I realize there needs to be a lot of money in order to run a successful campaign, but money shouldn't be a factor in smaller candidates voicing their opinions. "It's unfortunate in our system that money can drive credible voices out of the race" said Crawford. There probably isn't a way to cut down the cost, but all candidates should have an equal chance.

McCain's top political strategists forced out

Campaign manager Terry Nelson and chief strategist John Weaver announced their departures in joint statements released by the campaign.

Several sources tell CNN that McCain met with Nelson and Weaver on Monday to discuss the campaign's direction.

"Apparently [McCain] didn't like the answers and [said] this morning he wanted changes," according to a source familiar with the internal deliberations.

Also Tuesday, Deputy Campaign Manager Reed Galen and Political Director Rob Jesmer resigned from the campaign, a campaign source told CNN.

"No one was fired and they remain good and close and loyal friends and they'll continue to help out in the campaign," McCain told reporters.

wow this sucks for McCain what is he going to do now with his campaign now that his top strategist are gone.. this is sure going to be a tough one for McCain.. the election is going to be quite interesting with all these turn of events

Obama's money puts Clinton's 'inevitable' nomination in doubt

Washington insiders were beginning to think of Senator Hilary Clinton(Democrat)'s nomination as inevitable yet Senator Barack Obama(Democrat) shook that assumption with this successful fundraising totals of $32.5 million raised, of which $31 million can be spent in the Democratic primaries. Clinton fundraised a total of $27 million for the quarter and will be able to use $21 million in her primaries. Historially, the one who raised the most money would end up getting the nomination. Obama's record breaking fundraisers represents his dedicated, passionate characteristics which in one of Obama's first television ads a Republican state senator from Illinois state, "Republican legislators respected Senator Obama." Does money equal votes? It does not necessarily equal vots yet it enables a candicate to run heavely television advertising in the most crucial states. By raising a lot of money, it ables a candidate to expand their campaign. "People seem to be throwing money at the candidates. And most of it is going to the Democrats."


It is very exiciting to see our first woman candidate and first African American candidate excel in the fields of fundraising and to see that they are the first runner ups of the election. In addition, it is very interesting to see candidates compete for money and attention when there aren't acutal votes are cast yet. I believe they're goal is to fundraise as much as possible to enable themselves to expand their campaign into a deeper, broader level so that the majority of the people who are qualified for voting can hear the issues and the beliefs these candidates ensure in. It all depends on how much they make and how much attention they can create.

A New Face for Politics

Obama has raised 58.5 million dollars in the first six months of the year leading up to his election. This was record breaking. Hilary Clinton came close with 53 million dollars. The race has become tough as of June 30, 2007. Obama has 36.2 million dollars in the bank and Hilary has 45 million dollars in the bank. Obama has shown people his fundraising strength. During the second quarter he got 360,000 per day. 260,000 people this year have made donations to Obama. Obama has received donations from many different companies, people, and firms. They compare the donations received by Obama and his competitors.
I felt that this article was very interesting because Obama is the first African American to run in the Presidential elections. He also has received the most donations from people and many different companies. I feel that this is a breakthrough in American politics.

http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-na-money16jul16,1,3144703.story?page=2&cset=true&ctrack=1

Jim Gilmore quits the presidential race

Republican Jim Gilmore has said he is abandoning his attempt to win his party's nomination for the 2008 US presidential election. One of the less prominent Republican hopefuls, Mr Gilmore has struggled since entering the race in April. A former governor of Virginia, he described himself as a "mainstream Reagan conservative". There are now nine Republicans in contention, with Rudolph Giuliani and Mitt Romney the frontrunners.
He has made little impact in the opinion polls, and latest figures show his campaign funds standing at a mere $90,000. Mr Gilmore blamed his late start and the early schedule of primary elections, which will begin in the New Year. Emergency surgery for a detached retina delayed his campaigning last month.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/6899344.stm

I think that its good he dropped out of the race. he knew he had no chance to win because he isnt as popular as the other candidates and if he didnt quit he would lose and have wasted over a year in the race. Even if he had not gotten surgery he still would not be close to winning.

Rep. Hunter Joins 2008 Presidential Race

San Diego Republican, Duncan Hunter, admitted his entrance to the 2008 presidential election last October. He currently moves around states such as Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina in process to reinforce his financial matters and gather more supporters. He was a former chairman of House Armed Services Committee and he objects illegal immigration. Hunter, standing in the stage of contenders, claimed, "America needs a way ahead in the ongoing war against terrorists and a policy of economic opportunity, with a reaffirmation of faith in the principles of our founding."

I chose this article because Hunter is a San Diego lawmaker, from the same state as I am. I believe there are many barriers and obstacles that he needs to carry in completion to his success, to gather money and his supporters. However, it’s good to see him having strong hope and motivation in effort to his goal.

Dueling Iraq Speeches in Iowa for Obama, Clinton

As Clinton, Obama, and Edwards lead the polls, Clinton and Obama argue over the Iraq War in Des Moines, Iowa. Barack Obama, a state lawmaker in Illinois, stated that he objected the war since the beginning. He also claimed that Hilary Rodham Clinton supported the war in the beginning by voting on sending troops to invade Iraq to destroy Saddam Hussein’s regime. Clinton, on the other hand, mentioned that she wouldn’t have voted for the invasion if she knew this would have happened. Both contenders stand for the opposition in war as they lead the financial matters having around $26 million each.

I chose this article because Clinton and Obama are both contenders with unusual characteristics that the former presidents didn't have. It will definitely be an amazing turn in the United States history when one of them becomes the president. I think their actions against war will bring many in favor of them.

Article

In 2008, are voters looking for experience -- or a fresh face?

In 2008, are voters looking for experience, or a fresh face? This article mentions that campaign experience of a candidate doesn't really seem to help the candidates for the upcoming election. For example, the two candidates who are running for the second time, former Senator John Edwards and Senator John McCain, started strong, but are lagging in the polls and in fundraising now. This means voters may be ready for someone new and different, like Illinois Senator Barack Obama. Campaign experience of a candidate has been helpful to the candidates in other elections, as Nixon, Reagan, Bush (first) were all elected after running for president two or three times. However, it appears voters might want a mix of the new and the old, as they seem to be looking for a “fresh face” as much as they are looking for someone experienced.

I personally believe that it is reasonable for voters to be interested in a brand new face. This would give equal chance to candidates who are not well-known or experienced. However, experience and ability of the candidate should be the most essential factor to consider for the voters, before voting for a candidate.

Theme for the week of 7/16-7/20

This week I would like you to focus on one of two possible topics:

#1: Elections. There are presidential elections coming up in 2008. Find articles about the presidential race, Congressional races, or any other election.

#2: Local politics. Articles ideally would talk about South Pasadena politics, but feel free to deal with surrounding areas (Pasadena, Alhambra, Temple City, Los Angeles, etc.)

No repeat articles. No repeat issues.

Articles and comments must be posted by 5:00 on Thursday July 19th. NO EXCEPTIONS!! Anything posted after 5:00pm will not count. I know the tricks!! Don't cheat.

EXTRA CREDIT: After 5:00pm on Wednesday you can post/comment as much as you want for extra credit - NO LIMITS! Please do not do this until after 5:00pm Wednesday or your posts will be deleted.

A Stinging Report : The Government Accountability Office tries to build a “Dirty Bomb”

America is putting plastic drop cloths, and duct tape, terms such as "americium-241" and "cesium-137". These are two of the dangerous radioactive substances that is used in certain industrial deceives and possibility of harmful by explosion of a "dirty bomb". This happened in Maryland. The GAO set up Two company that is for buying the buy special moisture density gauges. This contains the radioactive substances. After that NRC commissioner bragged about the substance that is not nearly dangerous as others. Then the commissioner said that safeguard are powerful than those. The NRC was embarrassed by the civilians in the state. The company had to testify what they did. The Senate, Susan Collins, said "We should have a meeting before the use of radioactive substance in product for sell." This was about the article about two companies.

My opinion is that the NRC shouldn't have done this. It is very dumb thing to in the company. They should be sued for this bomb making jobs.

Judge rejects lawsuit over pot

Santa Barbara loses its fight against a statute that makes the private use if marijuana by adults the city's lowest crime-fighting priority. The law is similar to those passed in at least 10 other cities in the US, including Oakland, San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Santa Monica, and West Hollywood. The city's lawsuit was the first legal challenge to such laws, according to Adam Wolf. After Poet was sued, she countersued, citing a state law intended to quash litigation known as strategic lawsuits against public participation.

I kind of agree with the Judge because it is the judges decision to make a rejection. The judges are not rejecting for no reason. They have a reason to reject the lawsuit over pot. So i agree with this article

Hindu prayer in Senate disrupted

Thursday, July 12th, 2007, was the first day for a Hindu man to offer morning prayer to the Senate. Three protesters appeared saying that they were Christians and are patriots and that Hindu prayer should not go on. The man claiming to be born in India was Rajan Zed, director of interfaith relations at a Hindu temple in Reno, Nevada. Surprisingly the three protestors were arrested. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev. was the man to invite this Indian man, who defended him and went off topic to war.

I chose this article, because this reminded me of Engel v. Vitale. It’s Senate, not school, but I believe the First Amendment was being violated for those who are involved in the meeting for they have different religion and there’s no reason for them to bear the Hindu prayer. The difference in religion should be respected and cared. I believe that the Hindu man has violated the First Amendment by leading other believers with his own religion.

Article

Jurupa Violates Laws

On July 3rd, the Jurupa Community Services District violated state laws when it sold 4 acres of public land to Rep. Ken Calvert and his investment partners without offering the land to other public agencies first. They local park district wanted the land too. The Riverside County grand jury concluded this violation tuesday. The punishement is to pay a fee of $1.2 million for the Jurupa Area Recreation and Park District. Monthly investigations found that unnamed officials used district credit cards to buy personal items. Numerous violations were found from this investigation and the information was presented to the grand jury. I believe this is a minor problem and can be solved quite easily with and meeting of officials. If other public agencies wish to purchase the land, I think they should have a chance to buy it. And for the laws that were violated, i think they should regulate the laws much more better to enfore that these actions will not happen again. For more information on this topic, visit http://www.pe.com/localnews/inland/stories/PE_News_Local_C_report04.40f2068.html.

Blacks Violated Voting Rights Act

Noxubee County Democratic Party leader Ike Brown was accused of violating white voters of his town of their right to vote in a public election. Mr. Brown's actions violate the Voting Rights actof 1965 and violate those peoples right to vote. Judge Lee ruled that Ike Brown was guilty of voting segregation, although this case carried no criminal penalties, defendants who violate Judge Lee's final rulings could face charges and fines.
http://www.washingtontimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070701/NATION/107010039/1002&template=nextpage


I believe this is very wrong of Ike Brown to disciriminate those peopel of their voting rights. Everyone should ahve the rgiht to vote on a public election no matter where they live, what color they are and so and and so forth.

Rape censored in rape trial

In Lancaster a judge has just ruled that certain words are not to be used in the rape case of vistim, Terry Bowen. but it is not the news that she is accusing a man of the rape that is to peculiar. But instead the judge has limited Terry Bowen's and everyone else's right to free speech in the courtroom. Words such as "victim," "assailant," or "rape" shall not be used in the case. the reason behind it is so tha the jury does not hear such juicy words and lean towards one side from the beginning.

http://www.cnn.com/LAW/ (video, under 'Rape censored in rape trial'

I myself find it quite odd that the word rape itself cannot be used in a RAPE trial. But at the very same time I can see where the judge is coming from in the sense that the word "rape" is very powerful and could easily sway many jurers. But at the same time I believe it should be used because of how extreme the case is.

10-year-old arrested, handcuffed over scissors

A 10-year-old girl was placed in handcuffs and taken to a police station because she took a pair of scissors to her elementary school. School district officials said the fourth-grade student did not threaten anyone with the 8-inch shears, but violated a rule that considers scissors to be potential weapons. Administrators said they were following state law when they called police Thursday, and police said they were following department rules when they handcuffed Porsche Brown and took her away in a patrol wagon. “My daughter cried and cried,” said her mother, Rose Jackson. “She had no idea what she did was wrong. I think that was way too harsh.”Police officers decided the girl hadn’t committed a crime and let her go. However, school officials suspended her for five days.

The 10 year old girl did violated the right not to bring any weapons to school. But shes just 10 years old. I believe that the girl shoud have not been arrested or even handcuffed just becasue she brought her own scissors. She did not hurt or threaten anyone.