In the tradition of creating short naming conventions for popular folks -- like Brangelina, Bennifer II, and Filliam H. Muffman -- I have decided to refer to the Republican presidential ticket of John McCain and Sarah Palin as "McPalin" and the Democratic presidential ticket of Barack Obama and Joe Biden as "O'Barden."
As I sit here writing my political thoughts for this day, news coverage of McPalin speaking in Lebanon, Ohio plays on my television. As I listen, I am struck by how similar McPalin's message has become to O'Barden's.
"Change!"
"Change we can believe in."
"Standing up to the derisive and corrupt practices in Washington D.C."
and the real kicker:
"I work for You."
In the game of who said it first, I'm reminded that Barack Obama used that phrase in his DNC acceptance speech; fully one week before McPalin started saying it.
McPalin are riding some pretty high waves at the moment. The shock and "Awww" of Sarah Palin, mother of five, has indeed energized the Republican party from the majority of the funk they have been in.
I included the mention of her being a mother of five because John McCain always seems to mention it when he talks about or introduces her; making it clear that this fact is one of the biggest and most marketed selling points.
For myself, the selection of Sarah Palin certainly has captured my interest, but it has not swung my Independent vote. Although I certainly have much deep respect for mothers, practicing Christians, and movers and shakers, Palin does not strike me as a type of person I want for Vice President.
From the records that are being outed about her government service and the campaign tactics she has used to gain office, and including the current rhetoric falling from her lips, I seem to be wondering if there is much difference between her and the Pitbull Dick Cheney; except for the lipstick.
Although the combined individual records of the McPalin team have both differences and similarities to the 43rd administration, what strikes me as the biggest turn off in this run up to November 4, 2008 is the use of divisive language, of which I have just had too much.
Lately, McPalin's message regarding their opponent(s) is not that they are competitors for office, it's that their opposition is an enemy.
From my spot in small town America, I'm just sick of that message. I not only cringed when 43 stated from a presidential podium that "those who are not with us are against us," .. I was incredulous, then mad then a little scared. The idea that my government would tell me (and others) that if I am not with them, I am their enemy, sends chills of adrenaline flowing through my red, white an blue veins. The ideals reflected in such an attitude are not the ideals for which I joined our active duty military in my twenties.
We are ALL Americans; Democrat, Republican, Independent, et al.
And in our military, those brave men and women who put their lives to service and risk in order to protect our country, are also painted Democrats, Republicans, Independents, etc.
The same goes for the people we work next to, the people our children go to school with and the people we go to church or synagogue with.
For an American government official to say that if you are not with them you are the nation's enemy is an instant disqulifier for office in my view. In fact, I think it is one of the most Anti- or Un- American thing a person could say.
This country is a melting pot. Citizenship requires only adherence to our laws; and many of our citizens bend, twist and break those laws anyway, yet still remain Americans.
We are a diverse people, supposedly united in our efforts under our national banner; not under one party, nor under one religion, nor under one race.
When the Republican party becomes less totalitarian, less commanding towards the general population, THEN they might have a chance at winning a vote from me again.
I've always liked John McCain, and I could probably get along with Sarah Palin quite easily; but this election, nor any election, is solely about the personal attributes of the candidates. It is also about policy and attitude; and McPalin does not satisfy.
As a result, I am highly motivated to NOT vote for these Republicans.
God bless McPalin.
It looks like O'Barden in '08.
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09 September 2008
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Bill's Spirit is an Artist, Writer, Poet, Philosopher currently painting and wordsmithing from a humble studio in small town Ohio.
The works of the man behind Bill's Spirit have been published in small, alternative and amateur presses since 1986. Before that, they just filled notebooks, decorated walls and gathered dust in piles and boxes.
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Comments: 61
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I feel the same way. It seems absurd for any American candidate to consider Americans who do not get on their particular band wagon as enemies. Unbelievable.
We need to send a message to the politicians and media in this country. The surge in the Republican party pretty much says Americans are not as liberal as the media would like them to be. There is a culture war being waged and many people are duped into thinking like the media and not giving critical thought to the agenda presented. The effects are very long term if we give the dems the power.
To this day, I still like John McCain. I just cannot (say will not, if you like) bring myself to vote for someone who seems to represent anything similar to the 43rd administrations attitudes and policies.
Neither a person nor a government has to act like a total ass in order to prove that they are tough.
Good news is, the Obama campaign is finally calling them on it with a new ad.
If you wonder about Obama's allegiances, consider that after obtaining his Harvard Law degree he went to poor neighborhoods in order to help struggling Americans. Perhaps you will ridicule community organizers just as the Republicans have recently been doing, but for an American struggling to rise above the traps of poverty in this nation, that type of community organizer is also a true hero.
Perhaps certain people would respect him more if he had taken his Harvard degree to Wall Street, earned a pile of money and built a capitalist empire for himself before running for public office. What he did instead, was go and help struggling Americans. I think his allegiances are crystal clear. He put struggling Americans ahead of personal gain.
I hope they lose....and if they win I hope they get everything they deserve for it will not be easy for them to govern!
Does the Republican Party really think American voters--particularly American female voters--are deaf? and so dense that we don't realize when someone is lying? And will vote for them simply because we happen to have genitalia in common?
I think Obama has been through the wringer long enough over the 18 months--and had the opportunity to resolve all the issues that were raised. I don't have any concerns about voting for him on a character standpoint and I do happen to agree with most of his platform.
“It is shameful and downright perverse for the McCain campaign to use a bill that was written to protect young children from sexual predators as a recycled and discredited political attack against a father of two young girls – a position that his friend Mitt Romney also holds," Obama campaign spokesman Bill Burton said in a statement. "Last week, John McCain told Time magazine he couldn’t define what honor was. Now we know why."
It is downright despicable and should be banned for a fraudulent attack.
Palin of course is against sex ed in the classroom, but this ad has the appearance of implying something else.
Enough! Enough! Enough!
This really makes me rethink any respect I had for McCain.
It's the worst kind of advertising from any campaign, ever, bar none.
Take a look and see for yourself.
Take a look, Bill, and tell me how it is possible to keep quiet about this???
Those who call themselves progressives are very quick to condemn those who don't conform to their thought processes. I have a lot of problems with McCain but calling him such things goes a bit far. I have even more problems with Obama/Biden but so far I've resisted calling him such extreme names.
I can't agree with your final decision but I can understand it. I'm further along than you though in seeing both sets of presidential candidates as being almost equally worthless.
I personally see this as a contest between the two men running for President; although the Vice Presidential candidates do effect the way I see the country going.
One of the presidential candidates has worked his way to a great education through hard work. The other candidate was put in a special high school in order to get a high school diploma. He did poorly. Because of family influence, he was given an appointment to Annapolis ahead of much more deserving young men. He finished fifth from the bottom in his class and showed a minimum of leadership skills. Because of family influence he gets into the pilot training program ahead of more deserving young men. He does poorly, crashes one plane and still graduates. He crashes two more planes, (probably pilot error) and still gets promoted ahead of others in his Annapolis class.
One of the candidates has been married and faithful to the same women since they first walked down the aisle; the other admits to many affairs and divorced an ailing wife to marry another women.
The winner of this election will have a chance to take America into the 21st century; through logic and reason.
If the evangelical right manage to elect the pampered Navy retiree; we can expect our education system to fall behind the rest of the world. Logic and reason can move us ahead. The evangelicals cannot see beyond their faith. Faith and truth are not compatible.
The advances in science in the next four years is going to be truly amazing.
I can only see our country leading the way if we elect the young man who worked for everything; to get to where he is today.
“AP today 9/9/2008 - Barack Obama said President Bush isn't acting quickly or forcefully enough to get more U.S. forces into Afghanistan and out of Iraq. Bush "is tinkering around the edges and kicking the can down the road...”
So now Obama wants to shift our forces from Iraq to Afghanistan. I thought he wanted to bring all of our troops home.
Substance - reality – truth, or push the right buttons and tell everybody what they want to hear to win the prize. This like any prize to be won IS a battle to win and usually at the expense of everyone else. After elected it's as easy as saying, "That was then and this is now." World events are so volatile that no one can predict what will happen tomorrow yet alone next year.
After all is said and done, the unsuspecting and idealists among us, who really want to believe what they’re being promised, usually end up disappointed, to say the least. These politicians certainly aren’t supermen, but they are salesmen selling themselves to win a huge prize. For them, it really comes down to winning at almost any cost. It’s more a psychological war of words; of rhetoric, than anything of tangible substance. Brainwashing works on many levels and the very skilled know how to push the right buttons.
It all begins with us.
With truth there comes trust and a new beginning would be at our doorstep with unlimited possibilities. I only hope that most of us can recognize reality and truth through the pretense of any perceived or significant so-called change for the better.
It’s impossible to know what any candidate’s true intentions are. Sometimes we have to rely completely on our instincts. Since all Democrats are NOT like-thinking Democrats and all Republicans are NOT like-thinking Republicans we should remain objective and listen closely.
Maybe if you can keep an open mind right up to the moment you cast your vote, the answer will come to you. It would be wise for all of us to look beyond the performances and sales presentations, with some common sense to decide who has a more realistic goal; something you believe he will be able to deliver in 4 to 8 years. Anything else at this time will only result in false promises of hoped for dreams, unrealistic promises with little substance and a lot of rhetoric.
I keep thinking of the following quote:
“Vote for the man who promises least – he’ll be the least disappointing.”
Bernard Baruch
And I might add, more truthful.
From Barack Obama's acceptance speech, attended by 84,000 people:
For while Sen. McCain was turning his sights to Iraq just days after 9/11, I stood up and opposed this war, knowing that it would distract us from the real threats we face. When John McCain said we could just "muddle through" in Afghanistan, I argued for more resources and more troops to finish the fight against the terrorists who actually attacked us on 9/11 and made clear that we must take out Osama bin Laden and his lieutenants if we have them in our sights. John McCain likes to say that he'll follow bin Laden to the gates of hell — but he won't even go to the cave where he lives.
And today, as my call for a time frame to remove our troops from Iraq has been echoed by the Iraqi government and even the Bush administration, even after we learned that Iraq has a $79 billion surplus while we're wallowing in deficits, John McCain stands alone in his stubborn refusal to end a misguided war.
That's not the judgment we need. That won't keep America safe. We need a president who can face the threats of the future, not keep grasping at the ideas of the past.
You don't defeat a terrorist network that operates in 80 countries by occupying Iraq. You don't protect Israel and deter Iran just by talking tough in Washington. You can't truly stand up for Georgia when you've strained our oldest alliances. If John McCain wants to follow George Bush with more tough talk and bad strategy, that is his choice — but it is not the change we need.
Political parties ( a misnomer, since they are not fun ) divide Americans and pit us against one another. Let's throw them out and start fresh. Since Change is the campaign buzzword, surely both current candidates will embrace this improvement with enthusiastic support. I think of it as a declaration of independence. We did it once. We can do it again.
Yes those oil surpluses should be addressed, but they would only be a band-aid on a laceration. The world is in chaos and I believe that whoever is elected we’re all in for a bumpy ride, if not worse.
I do remember when Obama argued that the graver danger is the terrorists who attacked us, and that they were in Afghanistan, not Iraq. Obama only said that we should have gone into Afghanistan instead of Iraq? I don’t recall him ever saying if he were President that he would commit troops anywhere. I always heard him saying that he would bring the troops home from Iraq.
The article at least suggests that he would deploy troops to Afghanistan. Militarily, I think of us being in Iraq as also a strategic chessboard to defuse the volatility of the Middle East. Russia pulled out of Afghanistan. Do you think shifting our location and priorities would have any lasting benefit throughout the region? How does he reason that we can succeed in Afghanistan where Russia failed? Some rumors have Osama bin Laden, his lieutenants, and base in Pakistan whose government has refused us access. The fact is that nobody knows for sure where they are.
We cannot continue to be the world’s policemen. How can 80 countries not be accountable for harboring terrorist networks in their countries? The United Nations should assume their responsibilities instead of turning a blind eye while basking in their current money grubbing self-serving interests.
Oh, great post.
Larry K. tells it like it is!
John McCain is NOT a fascist traitor. That kind of name calling is exactly what has been wrong with the 43rd administration. It is disturbing from them, and it is disturbing to hear from others. Such name calling is not aligned with the kind of change that Obama stands for, nor the kind of dialogue he wants to bring to our country.
I also find it laughable that they say Obama is a staunch defender of the existing public school monopoly; as if that is a bad thing.
Your link to the article and video did not work, so I am posting another one here.
Thanks again for sharing it.
New McCain Ad: Obama Favors Sex-Ed For Kindergartners
I cannot agree with your statement that both sets of candidates are equally worthless. You can say that I'm further behind as a result, but that is just your opinion. The O'Barden team actually has some policy plans that sound well thought out and they would inherit a Democratic congress that would likely work well with them. I don't think McCain would be a worthless president, but I do have to wonder if his actions from that office would align with my thoughts on the different directions or nation could benefit from taking.
Still, the comparisons of the two candidates pasts are striking. I thank you for your contribution to the discussion.
History does not substantiate the idea that the person who promises the least is the most trustworthy. History indicates that the person with the most passion for their ideals are the most likely to follow through effectively. The trick then, is figuring out what they are truly passionate about; and it is not always the promises that they make.
Bush 43's campaigns come to mind. When he was running for office and re-election his promises were mamby-pamby and his passion showed strongest when he was criticizing others. In reviewing 43's record in office he has been quintessential at dishing out ridicule, condescension, arrogance and smugness, while his promises to the American public have been mostly forgotten.
The world is, and always has been, volatile; and a person never really can know what others will do when faced with action. Regardless of that, some things are predictable and some people can be trusted.
History does not substantiate the idea that the person who promises the least is the most trustworthy. History indicates that the person with the most passion for their ideals are the most likely to follow through effectively. The trick then, is figuring out what they are truly passionate about; and it is not always the promises that they make.
Bush 43's campaigns come to mind. When he was running for office and re-election his promises were mamby-pamby and his passion showed strongest when he was criticizing others. In reviewing 43's record in office he has been quintessential at dishing out ridicule, condescension, arrogance and smugness, while his promises to the American public have been mostly forgotten. He followed his passion.
John McCain IS truly passionate about changing the political climate for the better, but he does seem restrained or hobbled by some power dynamic within his party. Obama seems truly passionate about helping others. Luckily, neither of them have yet shown signs of being similar in character or demeanor to 43; and that is a very good thing.
Obama started his career as a community organizer to pave the way for himself in politics. His liberal view was most accepted in Chicago with the corrupt politicians and community organizers like Ahyers. He's not been able to give any concrete accomplishments that qualify him for being president. He's so indecisive now, I don't see how he would make a decision for all of us that we could benefit from.
That is your opinion. As for me, I was taught to own up to misdoing, just as I was taught to confront misdoing and then talk about making things right. Your logic seems to imply that you would prefer your neighbor to teach their children not to admit it if they broke your window or killed another neighbor's pet.
The point is, talking about what has been done wrong, and talking about what can be done to correct the wrongs, is exactly the right thing to do; at least so my combined American and spiritual values indicate. Your opinion obviously differs.
It can be pointed out that the honesty in Obama's speech in Berlin made those European folks hate and resent us less. They reacted with hope and optimism that America might become better, aka: less of an arrogant bully in the world.
As for Obama starting his political career as a community organizer in Chicago, I can't really say much about that since I have not heard Obama say any such thing, nor have I seen any documentation to prove such a thing.
I welcome you to point me to documentation or videos that back up your claim. Also, I welcome you to point me to documentation or video that shows a clear link between Obama and Ayers. I've asked others to do so and no one has provided me with anything substantial as yet.
Did you watch the O'Reilly interview. He talked about his start with Chicago's mayor, Charlie Daly and Ahyers, etc. That would give you insight into a real interview.
John McCain does not care about POW'S (POW'S for Barack Obama)
John McCain thinks our economy is thriving (out of touch)
John McCain has No Health Care Plan (Barack Obama does)
John McCain is said to have a Temper. (watch out for the red button)
John McCain is out of touch with reality.
Sarah Palin, what a joke. All she is good at is hunting and eating moose.
Sarah Palin is no Joe Biden who is a Statesman and well versed in foreign affairs.
On November 4, 2008, it's a no brainer....vote for Barack Obama and watch our Country restored.
GOD BLESS AMERICA!
Obama/Biden 08
The joke is to put Obama in the White House based on his experience. Sarah made more changes as a Mayor and Govenor than Obama has as a Community Organizer. McCain has crossed the aisle to work with his collegues. Obama's liberal agenda does not work for most Americans.
Really? I'm wondering how you can say that. Have you seen a list of details regarding Obama's community organizing activities? It's my understanding that the population count of the neighborhoods he worked in far surpassed the population size of Wassila.
But the real truth is that it is not Obama's experience that is the major motivator or inspiration to folks. It's his strong stance on what government should do (be FOR the people), how government should act (honest and not self interested), his vision of increasing the U.S. presence on world stages through diplomacy (instead of bullying) and his plans for increasing opportunities for all Americans (not just the highest economic tiers).
Obama's records also show that he has worked across the aisle with his colleagues; and since his so called "liberal" agenda includes tax cuts for 95% of Americans (especially the middle class) then yes, it does work for most Americans.
The history of one party rule in this country is not good to say the least and the last 7 years are the most recent proof of it.
I am a constitutionalist or government minimalist if you will. The Dems have never shown me anything as a party in that department and the neither have the Repubs as a party though they have at least a handful of reps/senators who try to rein in the ever growing beast of government. When polls say many Americans want change; they fail to explain that many of them are like me, I don't want more government from either the Dems or Repubs ...I want less. The Dems feel that such dissatifaction is playing to their strengths and too many of the Repubs think it means they have to become Dem lite or worse. In the meantime, a sizable number of voters become apathetic or vote 3d party. Why does the percentage of those voting go down constantly except for presidential elections...it sure isn't because they are happy with the choices.
This may be the first election in a new direction for America, or the last one for the old direction America has beat into the ground.
I want Ron Paul, but if the election is close, I'll vote Obama just to stop a possible nightmare scenario.
Gather Broadcasting: Have it your way
This takes you in the front door, and this takes you in the back door. If you’ve been, don’t click again.
"For myself, the selection of Sarah Palin certainly has captured my interest, but it has not swung my Independent vote. Although I certainly have much deep respect for mothers, practicing Christians, and movers and shakers, Palin does not strike me as a type of person I want for Vice President" copying someone else’s message is the best form of flattery. Obama needs to spell out his plan.
From my perspective I would like to see the candidate’s clearly articulate policies in the following areas and talk to us about how these policies will attract the MONEY -
E3-Plan
1. Energy - Independence from Middle East oil (Black Gold) will generate a lot of new jobs
2. Education - we need to get our kids the best education to compete in the Global economy (I see no way out of this)
3. Economy - We need to seriously consider - Country of Origin tariffs (the right to consume goods made in countries that offer cheaper labor and bad labor standards). This tariff must be invested in the American infrastructure (more jobs). Tax breaks for companies that will manufacture goods here in America in terms of health care credits for employees.
Globalization has too many tentacles to unravel so we need to focus on key areas one by one.
Finally tax breaks for the bottom 90% of all working Americans to increase consumption.
I just wanted to say I am finally going through what is now under 6,400 pieces of gather new mail that is in my inbox on here. So with that in mind I have finally come to a piece of mail that was addressed to me in regards this article submission you have created to share with the gather community. Thank you for taking the time and sharing your piece with us here at gather. :o)