Clinton to suspend campaign and strongly back Obama today

Clinton won't be VeeP

 Of all of the things I have heard about Clinton being on the ticket, ALL of it comes from supporters or the stupid talking heads in the media speculating. This is not coming from her campaign. Personally I don't think she would sit still for VeeP. She's much better off on her own than in the administration

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 10:51:33 AM CDT

My bet: Clinton as VP Talk will fade rapidly

I heard one pundit on Countdown, I believe, last night recommend that Obama not make any VP decision until mid-August. Let the campaign get going, see where he is vis-a-vis McCain in the national and regional polls and then decide who best helps the campaign. I think that is sound advice. It seems to me that a lot of the Clinton-VP talk is an understandable feeling among her supporters that a candidate who got so close should not go home empty-handed. But we really cannot consider the VP slot as a consolation prize, and I think Senator Clinton should think twice before even considering such an idea - or even a cabinet position. Either way she loses the independence of being outside the administration. As a leader in the Senate she can be a key ally to the Obama administration and a shaper of policy and legislation, but also a critic when she feels the need. And any administration needs good constructive criticism. If Clinton takes the VP job or some Secretary of... post, she has to toe the administration line.

Interestingly, this pundit also made a telling statement, "if Obama is up by 10 or 15 points in mid-August, which he could be..." I was really taken aback. I think the possibility of a ticked-off electorate getting solidly behind Obama and setting up a landslide victory (if not in electoral college than certainly in the popular vote) - certainly some Republicans have voiced their concerns about it. I'm not saying it's going to happen, but a truly unified party, beginning with a really gracious statement and genuine support today from Senator Clinton, would be a great first step.  

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by: CPT_Doom @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 11:00:06 AM CDT

She ( & Bill) haven't been vetted

The simple fact is that in order to be considered for the VP spot, both of them would have to provide FULL disclosure, including Presidential Library donor lists and all business dealings that Bill has entered into.

The repugs have been salivating about this info for years...that's why they wanted her to run.

Bubba will NOT be willing to share this info, therefore she is not in the running for the VP spot, unless Obama really wants her to.

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by: bkmn @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 11:24:28 AM CDT

Okay, I'm done waiting on her.

Unlike Clinton, I have things that I need to get done today and I feel worse about her being deliberately late than I do about most things that she said or did in the campaign. I'll catch it online later. Why does she have to be such a jerk about it? I wish I could just decide to be late whenever I wanted to.

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 11:25:29 AM CDT

...and she deserves.

A much better job than VP... and I hope she gets one and can charge in and help the country her way in that post.

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 11:27:46 AM CDT

Justice Clinton

I think she would be a wonderful Supreme Court Justice.

---

by: Zorya @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:26:04 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

What about UN Ambassador?

We've sent such turkeys there, like John Bolton, who have made us look like idiots--what about a really smart and experienced person who can represent us with pride, not belligerence?

"In order to maintain an untenable position, you have to be actively ignorant."  The Colbert Report

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by: Lev Raphael @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:18:07 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Justice Clinton

I agree.  I believe that she will be Obama's first Supreme Court nominee/appointment.

---

by: ChuChu @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 15:21:41 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Marriage is a state's rights issue

is I believe what she has said in the past.  That rather ignores the Loving v. Virginia precedent set by the Supreme Court.  I would hesitate to support her joining the SCOTUS.

---

by: scioto @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 15:28:25 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Late as usual

Let's see - it's about 12:26 EDT and Hillary hasn't even left her house.  Not quite the whole world is watching and she hasn't got the grace to show up on time.  How typical Clintonesque passive -aggressive clinical behavior.  And some of us wanted her to be the leader of the free world?

Know hope.  Obama '08

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by: inahandbasket @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 11:27:57 AM CDT

I was a Clinton supporter...

...throughout much of the campaign, until I voted Obama during the Texas primary but this being deliberately late thing is unforgiveable to me. That's just disrespectful to her supporters, the party and the nation at large and spin it as one might, that's ALL it is.

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 11:34:50 AM CDT

let it go

people need to let the hillary bashing go and focus their wrath on the opponent to beat: mccain.  wrath against hillary is only divisive and will in way help obama.  please consider that.  not just you, Margaret, but all the obama supporters around here.  please really think about it.

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Lurleen on Twitter.

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by: Lurleen @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 11:53:15 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

it will is NO way

help obama, is what i meant to say.

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Lurleen on Twitter.

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by: Lurleen @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 11:53:46 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

Is that what you guys think?

Stop making assumptions! I have been one of her most ardent defenders which you would know if you had been paying attention. I was griping about her making me late, just like I said in my comments. Sometimes people don't couch everything in rhetoric but mean exactly what they say! For the record: I am very late now but I'm glad I stayed to watch it. I thought her speech was brilliant. Stop reading in shit that isn't there.  

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 12:35:42 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I didn't realize that some comments farther up

were written by the same person who wrote the one i responded to.  I don't always have time to analyze peoples entire oevre before responding, so didn't know you had already talked about a time crunch elsewhere.  i'll try to be more careful next time.  but you might also consider linking to your previous comments if you want people to understand the context of the proximate one.  

Click HERE and sign up: Campaign For Military Partners.

Lurleen on Twitter.

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by: Lurleen @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 12:46:06 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

And I apologize

for the strength of my last. I was shocked that someone would take my griping about her making me late as Hillary hate. I've turned off Olberman for Clinton bashing several times.

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 12:38:34 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

no problem.

i hope you will note that i made a point to say that this comment wasn't aimed just at you, but at many who post here.  PHB is better than many places, but it has still been another stop on the Hate Hillary express.  it's time for everyone to move on and hate someone else more profitably.

Click HERE and sign up: Campaign For Military Partners.

Lurleen on Twitter.

---

by: Lurleen @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:05:05 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

It has been indeed...

...but I spend a lot of time here precisely because it is only a bash Hillary backwater. It hasn't been nearly as bad here as other places and Pam is always respectful of her.

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:10:20 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I agree

Every time I read another Bash Hillary post I get this strong urge inside to say...Why bother voting at all if this is what I'm going to be hearing and reading for the next several months? If Obama is anything like some of his supporters, I want nothing to do with him. He must be a very bitter and sexist man if he is anything like some of his supporters. I am not pointing the finger at anyone here. I'm just telling you what I'm thinking as I read these different political blogs and even much of the MSM.  All of the Hillary bashers are beginning to make me rethink my plans to vote for Obama again. I won't vote for McCain, but my other choice would be to just stay home. Getting out to vote can be an effort. Many have to get up early, miss their lunchtime, race to get off work early to go to the polls and then possibly stand in line, sometimes for hours just to vote. You have to get people excited to go to that effort on election day. You have to energize people to get out to vote. You and I all know this. Look at voter turnout in the past few elections. It's not easy to get people to go to that effort if they are not excited about their candidate. And how are you going to win over Hillary's supporters and get them excited enough about Obama to make that effort? Not by continuing to bash Hillary every chance you get. This continued bashing is not going to hurt Hillary. It's going to hurt Obama! Be careful folks. He can't win the general election without at least some of Hillary's supporters and this continued vitriol about her is not going to endear any of her supporters to Obama.  

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by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 12:55:24 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I really

was not talking about anyone here. These were my obsevations after visiting other sites and blogs today. Sorry about the rant.

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by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 12:56:48 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Enough with finger-pointing already

Let's keep our eyes on the prize, and stop blaming the candidates for what their adherents say. There's enough rancid rhetoric on both sides, but honestly, this is nothing to campaigns back in the 19th century.  You should have heard the sniping between the Jefferson and Adams clans.

It's time for both sides here and everywhere on the internet to just stop griping and grousing.  You said this.  No, you said that; it's become a childish plaint.  We're adults and we need to take back our country in November, not let it drift further into militarism and authoritarianism, when all our rights will be even more endangered than they are now.

Please.  

"In order to maintain an untenable position, you have to be actively ignorant."  The Colbert Report

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by: Lev Raphael @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:20:21 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Seriously

I'm sorry but your stance makes no sense.  Why would you judge Obama on the actions of people on a message board, people who Obama doesn't know, and who he has no control over.  Wouldn't it make more sense to judge Obama on his actions?  We are talking about voting for the United States President, and that decision deserves more thought than you are giving it.  

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by: Cadence @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 16:04:33 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Hi Candace

I didn't say I was judging him from the bashing posts and I'm not. I was, and am trying to make the point that continuing to bash Clinton online or otherwise will only make it harder for those who like and admire Clinton to move over to Obama which I think all Obama fans would like to see happen. Continuing the bitterness is not good for the Obama campaign. As others have pointed out (though I had not seen much of it myself) there is still bashing from both sides. This needs to stop or the Democratic Party will remain split. That can only help the republicans.  

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by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 16:21:14 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Sorry

I realized I got you name wrong just as I hit post Cadence.

---

by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 16:22:10 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I felt

safer posting this here than anywhere else. And yes, I will still vote, and it will be for Obama. I'm not listening to that little voice...yet.

---

by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:08:06 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

What Fiona said...ditto

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by: Karen in Kalifornia @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:20:55 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Nah, not really

He must be a very bitter and sexist man if he is anything like some of his supporters.

He was very fulsome with his praise and admiration of Sen Clinton in his speech on Tuesday, as well as other speeches this week.  And he specifically said that it was an honor to run with her in the primaries.

Every group has folks who take things waaaaay to far.  And the nature of the internet makes it difficult for some to restrain their inner fruit loop.

I would not want to see Sen Clinton as the VP choice.  I think the position is not a good fit for her.  I could see her as Secretary of State or a Justice on the Supreme Court.

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by: Zorya @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:33:19 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I Know That

That was the little voice inside my head reacting to the bashing I was reading. The rational me knows that Obama is not like some of his supporters, at least the Obama I have seen publicly, and I can't think he would be any different in private.
I am not going to even pretend to go anywhere near the discussion about Clinton as VP. My answer to all questions like that are: That is Obama's choice. He will make his choice in due time. I'm not going there.  

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by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:57:19 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

It seems to me

that the whole discussion about Clinton as VP has been entirely media driven. They have always been the ones to bring it up and the speculation from them since Tuesday has been nothing short of obscene.

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:16:42 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

If you want some balance

to the Hillary bashing that you perceive from some Obama supporters, just wander over to Taylor Marsh.  Very little concern about unity or the importance of getting a Democrat in the White House over there.  A few examples:

People, please vote this year! I know it is a difficult choice to support John McCain, but it is a valiant choice in this race.

I hope Hillary gets up there and says "piss on you Obama, I'm running independent".

The 18 million voters are not like shares of stock -- those voters can't be traded to the winner with an endorsement. Sen. Clinton is endorsing the winner as is the tradition. For her own future, she must support the party.

The Democratic Party is now left with promoting the far lesser candidat however. As one of the 18 million, I'll be voting for the better candidate of the remaing two -- Sen. McCain.

It does not matter to me what Hillary says. I will not be voting for bambi under any circumstances. I will voting for the one I trust and that is John Mccain.

The difference between Obama supporters and Clinton supporters is that Clinton supporters actually look at the candidates and think about the issues. Hillary will always be a true Democrat and will help Obama. Clinton supporters on the other hand, should make up their own minds.

Clinton supporters were attacked as racists and misogynistic statements oozed out of the mouth of Obama and his surrogates without any repercussion to them. On the contrary, they benefited from it with the collusion of Big Media. Do you want race-baiting and misogyny to be rewarded like this??? If you do - vote OBAMA. If not, withold your vote or vote McCain. It's that simple.

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by: scioto @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:29:16 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I've never suggested that Obama bashing hasn't been just as bad

but can we please stop drawing distinctions? Once more: There is no reason for anyone but rightwingers and dittoheads to rue this speech. They should be terrified of it. We are no longer Clinton Supporters vs Obama supporters. We are now Democrats vs the wingnuts.

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:38:05 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I wasn't replying to your comment -nt

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by: scioto @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:46:25 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I don't like these

any more than the ones I've been reading.  

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by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:44:02 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I think I understand

I got the same reaction when I surfed over to hillaryis44.com.  The posts there really put me off, and I'm in the demo from which they draw their supporters (white female, age 54, educated professional).  It all felt a bit irrational to me.

The best thing most folks (including me!) at this point is to back away from the keyboard and enjoy the lovely summer weather.  

You are making the right choice by avoiding the conversations, Fiona.

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by: Zorya @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 16:54:08 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I'll come out of hiding

long enough to second these words of wisdom! :) Back to the bunker with a fresh vat of popcorn...

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by: Louise @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 18:41:04 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

This isn't a rehearsed play...

   maybe she broke down crying and had to get herself together before facing the music. It's a tough moment for her, she lost a big meet. Can we see the human side of this or does that not count?

I'd rather be a lion for one day, than a sheep for my entire life.

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by: PhyllisMs @ Sun Jun 08, 2008 at 07:33:28 AM CDT

[ Parent ]

"strong"

i wouldnt call it a strong endorsement but she did what she had to do

http://www.queersunited.blogspot.com

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by: hippie4lyfe @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 12:27:30 PM CDT

Even Pat Buchanan thought it was strong.

He was more effusive in his praise of a Democrat than at any other time since I've known of him and that goes back a while.

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:04:03 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

If Buchanan said the sun was hot

I would still need it verified from another source.

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by: scioto @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:30:49 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Valid point :)

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:34:26 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

If anyone thinks H wants McSame

to win in the fall....check your medication.
She wants a Democrat to be in the WH again.  Period.
That determination is nothing but strong.

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by: Karen in Kalifornia @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:23:07 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

McCain campaign wants Lieberdem/Clintondem coalition

A letter in today's Boston Globe:

HILLARY CLINTON does not owe the Democratic Party a thing. She should follow the example of Joe Lieberman and run as an independent. If she joined with New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, for example, she could be unbeatable. Obama will get students, blacks, and otherworldly idealists. The Republican right hates John McCain and will stay at home. Moderate Republicans have been converted by the magnificent campaign Clinton has run.

Ham-handed and laughable, but this is one of McCain's general election strategies.  (Not an actual independent run by Clinton, but trying to exploit the Democratic primary cleavage.)  People need to be clear about what's going on.

"Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain" -- Iowa state motto

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by: Sportin' Life @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 12:40:36 PM CDT

That's hilarious!

Do the republicans still not realize that rhetoric and dirty tricks aren't going to work this time?

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:40:03 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

terrific speech

To paraphrase Shakespeare:

Nothing in this campaign became her as much as leaving it.

I thought it was the best speech I've seen her give.  She was warm, wry, passionate, truly connected, a strong advocate, and a useful guide to the future.  She said plenty to make the stakes clear for November and to defang and defuse kamikazee moves by her supporters.

Was she late?  Well, after four days, what's half an hour?  :-)


"In order to maintain an untenable position, you have to be actively ignorant."  The Colbert Report

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by: Lev Raphael @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 12:41:28 PM CDT

Besides...

...she was speaking to her constituency, not Barack Obama's. I think it will go down in history and be judged excellent.

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:07:20 PM CDT

Good speech

Had to go to the store before she started speaking, but the DVR is a wonderful thing to have.  

I thought she gave a very good speech.  I think there will still be a problem with people who saw Sen Clinton as a symbol instead of a person, but I suspect that the closer we get to the election and the further from the disappointment of the primary that most folks will decide that it is in their vested interest to put a Democrat in the White House

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by: Zorya @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:24:45 PM CDT

An MSNBC guest put it perfectly:

"The people who voted for Clinton will support Obama but the people who voted against Obama might be a tougher sell". Fortunately, I honestly don't think that's a very large percentage. There were boos in that crowd at first but in the end, she had them cheering for Obama in the end and there were only one or two booers left.

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:38:21 PM CDT

Let's Stop the Nonsense NOW

He must be a very bitter and sexist man if he is anything like some of his supporters.

I do not see how anyone can come to such an illogical conclusion about either candidate.  Supporters say something, ergo that refletcs the candidate?

Instead of snarking about who said what in support of or  attacking whom, how about listening to the candidates themselves?

And please see my note above about all of us growing up. We're not going to win the White House back through bickering and fales assumptions.

"In order to maintain an untenable position, you have to be actively ignorant."  The Colbert Report

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by: Lev Raphael @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:49:46 PM CDT

See my not above as well.

---

by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 13:58:39 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I guess

it wasn't safe to post my thoughts here after all. Politics sure can be volatile.

---

by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:03:37 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Of course it's safe

What did I say that would convince you otherwise?  I said "either candidate" and I deliberately did not give the obverse statement that would have impugned Clinton based on the shameful things many of her supporters have said about Obama.

What I said is directed to both sides.


"In order to maintain an untenable position, you have to be actively ignorant."  The Colbert Report

---

by: Lev Raphael @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:41:45 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

What I said

was originally about Hillary bashers because that's what I've been reading so much of not only today but for quite a while now. I guess I must visit blogs and sites where there are a lot of these people posting. As I said in a note above, that was my irrational little voice in my head reacting to all that I was reading, and trying (though obviously not very well) to say that many Clinton supporters might react the same way. I do not believe those words myself, as I said above. We all have a tendency to 'get our backs up' as my grandmother would say when people we admire are being attacked or bashed. My point was if Obama supporters continue this type of bashing they could wind up harming his chances of being elected in the general election. That's all I was trying to say. I was NOT trying to bash Obama myself. I apologize to anyone who thought I was. I don't bash people. I may disagree but I don't bash.

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by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:59:15 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Bash

But have you ever attended a bash or do you now plan to?

:-)

"In order to maintain an untenable position, you have to be actively ignorant."  The Colbert Report

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by: Lev Raphael @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 15:15:59 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

LOL

I'll be attending my wedding bash in about two weeks. Does that count?

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by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 15:19:27 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

it may if.

Westboro BC pickets.

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

---

by: Orion45 @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 15:22:37 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

I doubt

they will make it all the way to Canada just to bash my little wedding. Now the hundreds of geese in the park where we are getting married might do the job just as well or better. I'm already planning to take a rake to the site to get rid of their leavings. Do you think Westboro has contacts with the geese?

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by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 15:30:04 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Now you've Done It

I'm sitting here laughing thinking about all the geese in the park swimming past our wedding spot with their little picket signs tucked in their wings. If I burst out laughing during the ceremony it will be all your fault! ;-)

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by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 15:38:15 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Swans

There are swans at Stratford where we were married, but they were safe and warm indoors since we got married on Thanksgiving between snow storms.  In fact, we all left in a caravan, constantly phoning each car/SUV to make sure everyone was okay on the bad local roads until we got to 401 (or was it 402?).  It was exciting.

Congrats on your wedding!  I wish the dollar were higher for you!

"In order to maintain an untenable position, you have to be actively ignorant."  The Colbert Report

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by: Lev Raphael @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 16:44:26 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Ah Stratford

Yes, I was there back in the fall with some friends. We were searching quilt and yarn stores for goodies and drove through there. I didn't see the swans then. I think they had been put up already in their winter homes. I will be getting married not too far from there in the Kitchener/Waterloo area. Thanks for the congrats. We are excited. Going to spend the evening with the family so I'll see you guys later. Besides, these posts are getting so thin they might disappear. ;-)

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by: Fiona @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 17:37:18 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

OMG!

Then you'll know where we got married, probably?  In The Church, our favorite restaurant.  Who's doing your ceremony?

"In order to maintain an untenable position, you have to be actively ignorant."  The Colbert Report

---

by: Lev Raphael @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 20:14:41 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Agreed, Lev

I supported Segolene Royal but that doesn't make her a Lesbian...though I wish....sigh

I tell you Chica that no greater abomination exists than women denying their spirit of sisterhood and instead becoming the oppressor. -Rebeca, Universidad Complutense de Madrid

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by: MauraHennessey @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 17:20:28 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

C'est vache! (That's too bad)

"In order to maintain an untenable position, you have to be actively ignorant."  The Colbert Report

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by: Lev Raphael @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 20:15:18 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Clinton and timing

One thing I have considered in Senator Clinton waiting until today to make this speech of support for Senator Obama is this.  She needed a few days to grieve her loss.  She has suffered a great loss ... the loss of a dream that not only she but also her husband, her daughter, her friends, AND her enemies thought she had wrapped up and in the bag.

A year ago there was little doubt that she was destined to be the first American Woman in the White House.  And now this tremendous loss after coming so very close and winning state after state even late in the primary season ... she just could not compete financially or with the momentum or smarts of Senator Obama.  He beat her fair and square.

But what a loss she needed to grieve.  And where was she to find the private alone space and time to sob and cry and let it out?  She needed a really good cry, away from cameras, probably away from Bill.  Maybe alone, maybe with Chelsea ... I don't know.  But I do know she needed to grieve ... and that takes time.  The initial shock and force of loss hit her hard and the emotions whacked her like waves and rip tide all at once from all directions.

She is wonderful to have stood there today in front of the world with the grace and dignity she displayed.  I applaud her and wish her nothing but well.  I stand amazed that she was able to concede with so much grace and dignity and deliver such a speech after only three days.  Amazing ... but she is one amazing woman ... one amazing American.

The fight for full LGBT Equality is NOT over.  Be strong and be ready to really fight!  And read my blog in your spare time! http://ravenhurst-ravenhurst.b...

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by: Dagon @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:07:36 PM CDT

Well I for one don't begrudge her the time.

Since she used it to come out with such an outstanding speech. No off the cuff concession on Tuesday could have approached the brilliance of what she said today.

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:18:42 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

The speech had to be hard

and I give her some credit for it.  However I think she's had quite a while to prepare - there was no surprise results in the last 3 primaries that led to her defeat.  It's been obvious for quite some time who the nominee would be.  A gracious concession on election night would have made a speech today unnecessary, and not have strung her supporters on even longer.

I think she's done quite a bit of damage to the party (and nation) in promoting the ridiculous Michigan/Florida line like they were valid elections.  That and the McCain commander-in-chief comments are going to hurt us in November, and she needs to work hard to overcome those blunders.

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by: scioto @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:43:30 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Obama says

"Obviously, I am thrilled and honored to have Senator Clinton's support. But more than that, I honor her today for the valiant and historic campaign she has run. She shattered barriers on behalf of my daughters and women everywhere, who now know that there are no limits to their dreams. And she inspired millions with her strength, courage and unyielding commitment to the cause of working Americans. Our party and our country are stronger because of the work she has done throughout her life, and I'm a better candidate for having had the privilege of competing with her in this campaign. No one knows better than Senator Clinton how desperately America and the American people need change, and I know she will continue to be in the forefront of that battle this fall and for years to come."

Maybe we can all let this go now, eh? I can't force people to unify any more than Clinton or Obama can. People who continue to bash Clinton or Obama now after the speech are equally counter productive. The candidates are over it and we should be too.

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:56:58 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Is all criticism of Clinton's past actions "bashing"

or can some of it be an honest statement of opinion?

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by: scioto @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 15:19:24 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Frankly,

So long as the VP nominee reflects Obama's position's, I wouldn't care if he picked Sponge Bob as a running mate.

If it's Hillary, fine.  If it's someone else, that's fine too.

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by: Jon Michaels @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 14:38:19 PM CDT

A MALE, YELLOW SPONGE?

No, Jon Michaels. NO. Respectfully, it has to be Sandy Cheeks and here's why:

1. "She". Not "he" 'Nuff said.

2. From Texas, locking in the southern states.

3. Rather smart mammal! Easily the smartest one in Bikini Bottom.

But a definite downside is the winter hibernation thing...

Click HERE and sign up: Campaign For Military Partners

Click here for DADT photobook

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by: Louise @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 16:52:58 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

Will do Louise.

Sandy Cheeks it is.

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by: Jon Michaels @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 18:53:28 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

If you want to watch the entire speech

You will find it posted on MSNBC's site at http://www.msnbc.msn.com/

I found it to be quite a good speech.

You have to use Internet Explorer to view it though, doesn't work with Firefox.  (Tacky, Mr. Gates, very tacky).

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by: Paul In SF @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 15:08:27 PM CDT

Thought I would pass this along

Obama campaign has set up a "Thank You Hillary" page on it's website.

http://my.barackobama.com/page...

Check it out.

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by: Zorya @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 16:58:45 PM CDT

The speech was what it was

It was to those that supported her. She got her hurrah. She showed that she may be a leader, just not the kind of leader this country needs. The fact that she overplayed her hand, assumed she had more power and refused to concede once Obama secured enough delegates to win the nomination made it clear to those who have given her still more benefit of the doubt. She had said sexism hampered her campaign except when it mattered most she used her gender as an excuse for needing more time to get it together. Peggy Noonan's Op Ed piece today said it perfectly. We dodged a bullet. No she will not be VP. She can't be appointed to the Supreme Court without having served in a judicial capacity and moved up the ranks. I can't believe how ignorant people are of our political processes to even think it's a possibility. Some rules and procedures must be followed! Now after her campaign heralded the 'inadequate, sexist Black man' meme that was even mentioned by one of her most ardent supporters Clinton has her work cut out for her. If I was one of the reasonable Democratic voter that had supported her I would be throwing my support behind the nominee. If I was part of the Operation Chaos contingent who listened to Limbaugh I most likely would not be a registered Democrat anyway. If my support of Clinton was based on negative, unfounded or exaggerated views against Obama then I might take some time for clear-headed critical thinking skills to employ or not. That's what Voter Registration drives are for. All the simple-minded or angry or racist voters that let those externals rule will be there and so be it. The Democrats should also employ their own version of OC by drumming up support of Barr and other coordinated methods. If I were Obama I would expect equally vigorous support from both Clinton but I would be smart enough based on their behavior in the past to NEVER trust them.  

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by: heartsandflowers @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 17:00:21 PM CDT

" A Shining Exit"

from Rolling Stone, and quite beautifully put:

National Affairs Daily Edited by Tim Dickinson
Next Latest
A Shining Exit

6/7/08, 1:38 pm EST

There's not much more to say than that that was a class act.

Hillary Clinton did everything she could have been asked to do in uniting her supporters behind Barack Obama.

She also gave a speech that captured the historical weight not only of her run, but also of her family's exit - for now - from the presidential stage.

It was a speech that will help redefine not only her 2008 run, but what we remember of Bill (despite all of his recent lapses) as the steward of two of the three Democratic presidential terms America has seen in the last four decades. I'm a bit surprised she never named John McCain by name. But this was really about uniting Democrats against Republicans in the name of progress. And as that it's hard to imagine a more effective effort. Bravo.
Tim Dickinson

"In order to maintain an untenable position, you have to be actively ignorant."  The Colbert Report

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by: Lev Raphael @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 17:00:47 PM CDT

Thanking Hillary Clinton

http://my.barackobama.com/page...

This is on the Obama web site.

"In order to maintain an untenable position, you have to be actively ignorant."  The Colbert Report

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by: Lev Raphael @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 17:08:46 PM CDT

Watch Obama's speech on the third

 and then Clinton's speech today and the watch McCain's speech of the third. It's hard not to laugh hysterically.

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by: Margaret @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 17:21:51 PM CDT

It's not easy (speaking before) green

Truly, their speeches were soaring, his crawled.

"In order to maintain an untenable position, you have to be actively ignorant."  The Colbert Report

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by: Lev Raphael @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 20:16:52 PM CDT

[ Parent ]

To Jim Neal

Thanks for the courage to reconsider your opinion.  That's not cynical Romneyesque flip-flopping-to-get-votes.  That's being human, taking in more data, reflecting, being smart, and being humble -- all good qualities for your political or civilian future.

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by: KC @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 20:21:21 PM CDT

BLACK PRIDE!

This wouldn't post except as quote:... but its from me.

This may not go here.  But Where?
My husband (tall hispanic looking).. and I have a boat in a marina in the Bay Area in what I would describe at least a 50/50 city black/white. But really probably 40/40/10/10 with latino and oriental....exNavy... as all our bases are gone now.... American in other words.
He said he noticed when there on Thursday that there seemed to be more black people on marina walk... and they all seemed happy and jazzed.
This could be a real real benefit to the next few months and hopefully years... if the big change Obama could bring would be for blacks to feel more proud and equal. There will be some backlash, but again positive emotion is so much more accepted and strong.

It's the Hammer of JUSTICE,
It's the Bell of FREEDOM,
It's the Song about LOVE between,
my Brothers and my Sisters
...All over this Land.

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by: Orion45 @ Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 22:10:20 PM CDT

Hillary repaired her reputation, and secured her future, Bill will take MUCH LONGER

I wasn't as angry against Senator Clinton as I was against her spokes people, and staff. Ickes, Penn, Ferraro, Johnson of BET, the staff who darkened and broadened Obama's face on a mailer...can still go to hell, and they won't work for the Democratic candidates again.
Bill Clinton damaged his legacy, and will take a Nixon-like time span to try and re-cast himself as an elder statesman.

"race, taste. and History finally overcome....and you ain't there"
by Tony Kushner

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by: peteyPornpig @ Sun Jun 08, 2008 at 12:33:31 PM CDT