the local news here in the hudson valley just pointed out that the hunt club where cheney blasted away at cats and dogs or whatever yesterday had a confederate flag flying outside one of it's buildings....

In NY State, gregg? A confederate flag?? It must be flying upside down as a joke, right?

Maybe that is where we should hold our next New England meet up , and walk in protest! Don't they know the Civil War has ended?

these hunt clubs for the very rich are nations unto themselves. and what could be more fitting for the guy who positioned the supreme court to bring back segregation than to fly his colors!

Since when does a government employee have the right to bypass U.S. and International law that L. Paul Bremer can "At Will" give blanked immunity to all criminal activity. Congress must come up with a declaration that no official has the right to offer immunity without Congressional authorization. Did L. Paul Bremer offer himself immunity for all those lost funds and for those that transfered government funds into private hands? It is like a Bush Republican to raid Congressional appropriations for the own private earmarks, and say it was Cheney that gave him immunity from prosecution. It seems the White House does not fear Congressional accountability.

Well, well, the US OKs, Egypt building Nukes, but not Iran! They think Egypt is such a wonderful safe ally of the US they would not be tempted to sell off some of this stuff to terrorists?? HA !

"The White House on Monday said it had little information about Egypt's plans to relaunch its nuclear power program but declared itself "generally supportive" of civilian atomic power.

"I don't know a lot about it. In general, we are supportive of countries pursuing civil nuclear energy. It's clean burning. It provides electricity in a clean-burning and affordable way for citizens," said spokeswoman Dana Perino.

"We are working with some countries in order to help them get there. But in regards to the Egyptian program, that report just came across. I don't know any more specifics about it," Perino told reporters.

She was speaking shortly after Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak said that Egypt planned to build several nuclear power stations, relaunching a nuclear program frozen more than 20 years ago

http://rawstory.com/news/afp/US_No_objection_to_Egyptian_nuclear_10292007.html

If the Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK is a terrorist group as Turkey claims why does the Bush White House put them on the terror list with Hamas? Are the Pro American or are they Anti American.

back later. some running around to do this morning,

As far as this Confederate Flag at Cheney’s hunt club goes, it fits into the Republican led agenda to hang on to old traditional values instead of creating new values to be proud of because their agenda with only money and power can’t.

Good morning, all.

Pam,

Isn't Bin Lauden's right hand man a former Egyptian militant who was imprisoned for years (you know the physician), not to mention weren't two of the 9/11 pilots Egyptian terrorists?

It appears Condi has found a way to enrage both al Queada's leadership in Pakistan and thousands of internal militants in Eqgypt. We can only quess how long it will take for that plutonium to land in the hands of Muslim terrorists.

Don't these doorknobs in the Oval Office ever connect the dots? The real problem is that the Republicans are really more afraid of labor unions than any foreign terrorists.

On my way for the day. later.

makes me nervous.

Posted by gregg on October 30, 2007 at 08:33 AM

Posted by PamB on October 30, 2007 at 08:26 AM

ME too! (in stereo)

Good Frigid Morning Loyal Democratic Buhhhh Dees ;-)

Posted by Dawn on October 30, 2007 at 10:04 AM

TRYing to Ketsup~~~~ :-]

Good morning Dems!

You know, I have been saying all along that I would support whatever Dem candidate got the nod. I am just not sure about that anymore.

Hillary seems to have sold her soul to the corporatists and Obama seems to have sold his to the anti-gay loonies.

The MSM pretends that Edwards doesn't matter but I think he is one of the best hopes for the Dems. Personally, I like Dennis best, but I think the media really wants to destroy him completely.

PamB,

Pakistan, who already owns nuclear weaponry while having al-Qaida intimidating the Pakistani Government in places is almost as much of a threat to the region and security as Iran is. The difference is America can trust Pakistani President Musharraf not to go along with terrorism, America is not sure it can trust the government of Iran not to. However, the Pakistani government sometimes appearing weak with fighting al-Qaida in their country still is a threat to the region and world security as well.

With the war in Iraq, the Bush administration has brought disrespect to America’s military pressure ability being used as a foreign policy tool with the war against terrorism. So I think America now needs to go after the politics on violence in the Middle East with government leaders by internationally and regionally exposing the lack of representation their past and present governments have given Islam itself, let alone their people.

I mean, I have heard that Islam’s original meaning of Martyrdom has nothing to do with one committing suicide and the murder of others. I heard Martyrdom was originally simply an internal act of faith to defend ones life in self-defense. So look how wide-spread the Middle Eastern governmental and Islamic leaders have let the extremists misinterpretation of Martyrdom grow by not giving even Islam proper public representation, let alone their people?

So the way I think America should go after the politics of leaders condoning Islamic violence like the present leader of Iran’s, is with intense diplomatic communication on an international level. Let world leaders ask the Iranian leader in front of the international camera’s about the less aggressive original meaning of Martyrdom and why he thinks this Islamic principle was lost in the region? Then the world can hold the leader of Iran accountable for his politics on violence afterwards in front of his own region if need be. (In the meanwhile, America could then gain trust while helping the Middle Eastern public realize that they need better representation; be it better Islamic representation, Democratic representation or both.)

Keeping our soldiers in Iraq keeps America from being able to bomb Iran’s nuclear material facilities easily because American soldiers right next door in Iraq would be easy targets for Iranian backlash, both from Iran’s Government and Iran's private sector. So I think if America needs to resort to bombing Iran’s facilities, we need to have our soldiers out of Iraq first instead of putting them in even more danger.

PamB,

Pakistan, who already owns nuclear weaponry while having al-Qaida intimidating the Pakistani Government in places is almost as much of a threat to the region and security as Iran is. The difference is America can trust Pakistani President Musharraf not to go along with terrorism, America is not sure it can trust the government of Iran not to. However, the Pakistani government sometimes appearing weak with fighting al-Qaida in their country still is a threat to the region and world security as well.

With the war in Iraq, the Bush administration has brought disrespect to America’s military pressure ability being used as a foreign policy tool with the war against terrorism. So I think America now needs to go after the politics on violence in the Middle East with government leaders by internationally and regionally exposing the lack of representation their past and present governments have given Islam itself, let alone their people.

I mean, I have heard that Islam’s original meaning of Martyrdom has nothing to do with one committing suicide and the murder of others. I heard Martyrdom was originally simply an internal act of faith to defend ones life in self-defense. So look how wide-spread the Middle Eastern governmental and Islamic leaders have let the extremists misinterpretation of Martyrdom grow by not giving even Islam proper public representation, let alone their people?

So the way I think we should go after the politics of leaders condoning Islamic violence like the present leader of Iran’s, is with intense diplomatic communication on an international level. Let world leaders ask the Iranian leader in front of the camera’s about the less aggressive original meaning of Martyrdom and why he thinks this Islamic principle was lost in the region. Then the world can hold the leader of Iran accountable for his politics on violence afterwards if need be. (In the meanwhile, America could then gain trust while helping the Middle Eastern public realize that they need better representation; be it better Islamic representation, Democratic representation or both.)

Keeping our soldiers in Iraq keeps America from being able to bomb Iran’s nuclear material facilities easily because American soldiers right next door in Iraq would be easy targets for Iranian backlash, both from Iran’s Government and Iran's private sector. So I think if America needs to resort to bombing Iran’s facilities, we need to have our soldiers out of Iraq first instead of putting them in even more danger.

LOL here I am on the other thread just posting away with yellow dog and realize I'm on the wrong thread!

LOL how funny is that???

AP uncritically repeated Giuliani allies' accusations of partisanship by firefighter unions

In an October 28 article about Republican presidential candidate and former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani's anti-terrorism credentials, the Associated Press reported that "[s]ome firefighter unions and family members of those killed [in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks] are campaigning against him, distributing an anti-Giuliani video and holding protests outside Giuliani events," later adding, "Giuliani allies say much of the criticism is political, pointing to the firefighters unions' endorsement of Democrats."

But the AP did not note that the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 94 -- listed in the credits as having "cooperat[ed]" and "participat[ed]" in the production of the video criticizing Giuliani's 9-11 record -- endorsed President Bush in 2004, a fact that undermines Giuliani "allies' " accusations of partisanship. The IAFF itself, which produced the video, issued a press release in July, when the video was launched online, noting that the group has endorsed Republican candidates in other races.

Indeed, responding to the Giuliani campaign's charge that the IAFF's motivation for producing the video was "partisan," the IAFF issued an "e-mail press release" -- posted on a USA Today blog on July 11 -- which quoted IAFF general president Harold A. Schaitberger as saying that, in 2006, his organization endorsed Republican Govs. Charlie Crist (FL) and Jim Douglas (VT) and that the union "endorses candidates on both sides of the political aisle -- always have and always will." That year, the IAFF also endorsed then-Reps. Curt Weldon (R-PA) and John Sweeney (R-NY), according to a July 11 ABC News article.

Additionally, Politico senior writer Jonathan Martin challenged the Giuliani campaign's criticism of the IAFF as "partisan" in a July 11 post on his blog, noting that "[n]ot included in [Giuliani's] oppo is any mention of the fact that the IAFF is known as one of the least partisan unions, especially on Capitol Hill. They give thousands to GOP candidates, endorse more than a few and are generally known as the least hostile of labor groups to the Republican cause." Finally, media critic and blogger Greg Sargent noted that "a quick Nexis search confirms that IAFF's largest New York City affiliate, the Uniformed Firefighters Association [IAFF Local 94], actually endorsed Rudy himself both times he ran victoriously for Mayor, in 1997 and 1993, and when he ran and lost in 1989," as Media Matters has documented.

http://mediamatters.org/items/200710290007?f=h_latest

Tired of Hillary? Here you go GregL! (chew on this) LOL! j/k

Schwarzenegger: Marijuana 'not a drug'

Source: UPI

SACRAMENTO, Oct. 29 (UPI) -- California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger admitted to past use of marijuana but said the substance is "not a drug. It's a leaf."

Schwarzenegger told a GQ magazine interviewer that he "didn't take any drugs" and explained when asked about his past admissions of marijuana use that "that is not a drug. It's a leaf," The Daily Mail reported Monday. "My drug was pumping iron, trust me," he said.
"I did smoke a joint and I did inhale. The bottom line is that's what it was in the 70s, that's what I did. I have never touched it since," Schwarzenegger said. The governor also told the interviewer that he doesn't think it is necessarily the public's concern when a politician uses Class A drugs.
"What would you rather have? A politician taking stuff and not saying but making the best decisions and improving things? "Or a politician who names all the drugs he or she has taken but makes lousy decisions for the country?" he asked during the GQ interview. "A politician's job is to do what's best for the people and to improve the country, the economy, the environment. Why should I care if a politician takes sleeping pills every night so long as he can do his job?"

HA! Looks like I beat Gro4me on this article!

Posted by Dawn on October 30, 2007 at 10:14 AM

NOT about Hillary

Kucinich's wife told, 'Your husband's a FLILF hunter'

As most of the media pores over poll numbers, handicaps the presidential horse race and analyzes each presidential candidate's proposals, Comedy Central's Daily Show decided to ask a different question: Is America ready for a FLILF?

Daily Show correspondent Jason Jones examined the groundbreaking potential within the candidacies of Fred Thompson and Dennis Kucinich -- each, he says, would bring an absolute knock-out along to become the country's First Lady. Just how dangerous would a FLILF be?

Jones began by talking to an expert on First Ladies through history, and he had to explain the meaning behind his question. A FLILF, he said, is "basically just like a MILF, in the White House." MILF, a crude colloquialism, stands for "Mother I'd Like to F--k."

"To better understand this impending threat, I faced it head on," Jones says before sitting down for an interview with Elizabeth Kucinich, the 29-year-old, red-haired, fair skinned beauty married to the long-shot Democratic candidate.

A playful Kucinich was coy when Jones asked if America is ready for a FLILF and she asked him for an explanation of the term's meaning.

"What's a FLILF? A FLILF is an acronym, also a palindrome," Jones sputtered. "Your husband would be a FLILF hunter."

Posted by Dawn on October 30, 2007 at 10:32 AM

LOL Dawn- I thought I chased everyone away!

(repost)
Big debate tonight in Philly hosted by Russert and Williams. I've never seen them be fair to Democrats, and I don't think tonight will be different. We'll see. The big talk on the tv networks is that Obama said he needs to come out swinging. It appears the k.o. punch was telegraphed to the NYT by Obama. Now they are running with the story that Obama "needs to do something big." They are saying the gloves are going to come off.

The catch is that it's hard, if not impossible, to do because he's created a "uniter" image with "the politics of hope." To me, it's sounds like a page out of Bush's Faith based politics and rhetoric playbook. I didn't believe it when Bush said it, and I have a hard time believing it now. I don't fancy rhetoric from politicians; I want acts.

To prove that Obama is more rhetoric and talk than acts and deeds, I will point to his Senate record. If he has a magic uniter formula, I wonder why he hasn't used it in the Senate to at least swing ONE near party line vote. But we all know that it can't be done. Th only evidence I see of a "uniter" is that Obama rarely, or NEVER, talks ill of Republicans. I'm leary that "uniter" is code for compromiser, and Dems don't need to compromise now.

All the issues are on the side of Democrats. From the war, to the economy, to health care, to education, to protecting privacy and the Constitution. I want a Democrat who will scream about virtues of Democrats. I want a candidate to explain the path to a better America that Democrats have fought for, and are winning. I don't want to unite with Republicans; I want Independents to understand why Democrats are right.

I'm not sorry. I don't see any room for compromise with a minority of "faith based" people who just want to take rights away from women to choose, and stop stem cell research. If they don't want Constitutional freedoms or technology to better lives, then they don't have to use them. But I don't want these fundamentalists in the negotiating room when my rights are on the auction table. I want a fighter, not a uniter.

Lastly, I question Obama's ethics and integrity for using the false conservative media reasoning that people who voted for the war are accountable for the war. We all know that the Administration manipulated the intel, and lied to the Senate. And the Senate resolution required Bush to exaust every option. The media conveniently forgets that little requirement by the Senate.

When someone goes to a bank or board or committee to get approval for a loan or transaction, and they lie in the process, it's the party who lied for approval who is held accountable. I totally reject the argument that the Senate is accountable for Iraq. And since Obama has stooped to make this argument, I question his integrity and loyalty to Democrats, and his sincerity for change when he claims to be a uniter. It just doesn't pass the smell test.

Now some of you are fuming that I'm talking anti-Obama so I must be for another candidate. Not so. I'm an activist, and I just want the strongest candidate to win. I stand up for all Democrats who are maligned in the media. I just want a solid candidate with no skeletons in the closet.

I see where people are getting the flashback feeling of '04 when Dean was in the lead, and everyone went after him, and Kerry came out on top. If this back and forth between Hillary and Obama continues, I can see how people will get sick of them, and want other candidate. I don't care what soft colors Hillary wears, or what Obama wears on his lapel. The door could open wide for Edwards, Richardson, or Gore. And when you look on paper, they are all very qualified leaders with much experience.

Hey Cate! Nope! I was just lost 4 a moment (or two) ;-)

Cate, I understand you completely. I am still holding out for Al Gore, but that is looking less and less likely. I have started working my way down the list and have eliminated both Hillary and Obama. Edwards is a possibility, but I had previously scratched him off the list with his early campaign problems and have now moved to Dennis and Chris Dodd. Dodd caught my attention recently and is who I would vote for if the primaries were today. Obviously, I would vote for the democratic nominee over any of the Republicans, but it wouldn't be with a lot of enthusiasm. Lets hope Al Gore listens and decides to run.

PCT

Oh yeah,if Gore decided to run I would put every cent I could into his campaign!

Big Yellow Dog

I also question Obama's integrity. This anti-gay frontman business really got my goat. Now Obama is going to San Fransisco? I hope he finds lots of protesters.

It kills me. Obama's church isn't anti-gay. He hasn't been. He is trying to parlay hate into votes. Screw him.

Stephanie Miller is losing me

She lets right winger wackos talk for way way too long (defending the war) on her show and she's doing it way too often (for me)lately.

Giving voice to the demented and insane is STUPID!!

You guys listen you forget they are ALL politicians or they wouldn't be where they are right now.

I want the BEST DAMN DEMOCRATIC POLITICIAN we can find with the BEST team of DEMOCRATIC backers ready and willing to FIX THIS NATION.

If it's Hillary, I don't hate her.
If it's Obama, I don't hate him.
If it's Eddie, I feel bad for his wife but still don't hate him

If Richardson finds a way to sneak up - I would be very glad. I do really like him.

If GORE were to WAKE UP and decide he WANTS THE POSITION - I'd be very happy

Regardless our candidates are far superb to any of theirs. P E R I O D

:-]

superior not superb

but the are that too!! hehee!

Superior not superb but they are that too!

I need fuel - bbl

Peace

Hey Dawn-
I'll give you that the Dems field of candidates far surpasses anything that the Repukes have to offer right now. No doubt. But it would be pretty hard for me to vote for Obama right now.
I'd prefer Hillary even...(I wouldn't have said that a few weeks ago.)
I am a lesbian. I am not putting up with candidates that are willing to screw me for a few votes. His homophobic anti-gay gospel singer is actually on the DL while he is PRETENDING that homosexuality is a choice. He can kiss my ass.
I can't put party loyalty over my own well being. Or the well being of other members of my family. Or the well being of my friends. Sorry.
Now I can put aside issues of gay marriage, civil unions and all the equal rights I should have without question. But when you use religioun and hatred to get some votes, now that is putting things way over the frigging top.
At this point I can't see voting for Obama period.

Posted by Cate on October 30, 2007 at 11:21 AM

Hey Cate,

I wonder just WHAT he was thinking when he did that? Hiring that guy. But how involved is he? If it was a one time thing, I can still see voting for him. If it's his MO it will show before Nov 08.

Even Richardson is not UP on the science of sexual preference. It amazes me. He seems so much smarter than that.

I wish I could tell you what obama was thinking, but it makes no sense unless you view his behavior as pandering.

The problem is that many do see it as a preference as opposed to an orientation. I'd prefer to be straight. That would be much easier, now wouldn't it? :) However, I accept who I am despite all the messages about why I should hate myself.

I'd prefer to be straight. ??

Cate really???

When my first husband cheated (producing a baby) I remember saying

it would be easier to be Gay!

When my 2nd husband (the Epileptic) tried to choke me once during a FIT - I remember thinking -

it would be easier to be Gay, I bet!

That's funny. sorta.

Ok THIS HAS GOT TO BE A BS POLL

Bomb Iran, majority of Americans says in new poll

who are these crazy F@#kers??? They need to be locked UP!!!

~snip~

The Zogby International survey shows 52 percent of Americans would support a strike on Iran, while 53 percent expect President Bush to launch such an attack before the end of his second term.

Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton is voters' No. 1 choice to deal with Iran, with 21 percent saying they would like to see her take on Tehran from the White House. Republican Rudy Giuliani was voters' second choice, with 15 percent.

posted by ElizabethJW at 30 Oct 10:35A
Don't bet on it. The Bushiato doesn't give a rat's patootie about our soldiers in Iraq. They won't check the wind before they nuke Iran, and then they'll claim that the radiation burns on our soldiers were "pre-existing conditions" just like PTSD and brain trauma.
The best course of action is to get our of Iraq, and impeach those rocket rattling sociopaths before they start WWIII!!!!!!
SAVE LIVES!!!!!!
IMPEACH BUSH/CHENEY NOW!!!!!

lmao Dawn-
I guess there are pro's and con's for both ways of life. However, I am jealous of the rights that straight folks have. I am jealous of the freedom. Kids who are getting married have their pictures in the paper for their engagement and their one year long relationship is valued. I've been with the same partner for almost 15 years and I am legally viewed as single. My gay friends value our relationship but we get homophobic comments tossed our way by people all the time.
As if it's ok to say "that's so gay".

As if it's ok to say "I hate gays" to our faces. Even when you know they mean gay men not us lesbians.

As if it is ok to have some of your relatives shun you because they think you are sinners.

Or how about a house guest explaining how their collegue was fired because she was immoral - oh yeah- she was a lesbian.

Yeah- it'd be easier to be straight.

And Dawn, that kind of crap happens to gay people too. Some people cheat. Some people abuse. Some people rape.

Posted by Butte on October 30, 2007 at 11:52 AM

:-/ hell ya

lmao Dawn-
I guess there are pro's and con's for both ways of life. However, I am jealous of the rights that straight folks have. I am jealous of the freedom. Kids who are getting married have their pictures in the paper for their engagement and their one year long relationship is valued. I've been with the same partner for almost 15 years and I am legally viewed as single. My gay friends value our relationship but we get homophobic comments tossed our way by people all the time.
As if it's ok to say "that's so gay".

As if it's ok to say "I hate gays" to our faces. Even when you know they mean gay men not us lesbians.

As if it is ok to have some of your relatives shun you because they think you are sinners.

Or how about a house guest explaining how their collegue was fired because she was immoral - oh yeah- she was a lesbian.

Yeah- it'd be easier to be straight.

And Dawn, that kind of crap happens to gay people too. Some people cheat. Some people abuse. Some people rape.

Sorry for the double post.
Don't know why it even happened

Posted by Cate on October 30, 2007 at 11:54 AM

I know and I'm sorry your rights are less than mine. I hate it. It was just a memory I had. Life sucks MOST days for most of us. But I'm voting for JUSTICE and the Rights of ALL. Count on it! :-}

Medical Errors - A Leading Cause of Death

The JOURNAL of the AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (JAMA) Vol 284, No 4, July 26th 2000 article written by Dr Barbara Starfield, MD, MPH, of the Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health, shows that medical errors may be the third leading cause of death in the United States.

The report apparently shows there are 2,000 deaths/year from unnecessary surgery; 7000 deaths/year from medication errors in hospitals; 20,000 deaths/year from other errors in hospitals; 80,000 deaths/year from infections in hospitals; 106,000 deaths/year from non-error, adverse effects of medications - these total up to 225,000 deaths per year in the US from iatrogenic causes which ranks these deaths as the # 3 killer. Iatrogenic is a term used when a patient dies as a direct result of treatments by a physician, whether it is from misdiagnosis of the ailment or from adverse drug reactions used to treat the illness. (drug reactions are the most common cause).

Can someone please explain how the FDA is "protecting" us?

I know you will Dawn. I have faith that the good people on this blog care about who they are voting for and are making the best choices they can.

Sorry if I sounded as if on a soap box...

Posted by Cate on October 30, 2007 at 12:06 PM

who deserves one more than you?

it's all good ;-)

Mornin' {{Y'all}},

Loving the Seattle PI this morning. Here are a couple of tidbits:

The GOP's disgruntled right
DAN K. THOMASSON

WASHINGTON -- At a recent regular function where an eclectic group of doctors, lawyers and former and current chiefs meets periodically over dinner to discuss issues of the day, I asked one of the early icons of conservatism whom he liked for the Republican presidential nomination.

How about Fred (former Sen. Thompson)?" I said, nudging a prominent moderate standing next to me. "It looks to me like he fits your profile about as well as anyone."

"Lord, no!" he exclaimed. "He's a Washington insider and I don't trust him any more than I would any K Street manipulator."

"Well, how about (former New York Mayor Rudolph) Giuliani?" I asked. "He seems pretty conservative on most of the issues."

He looked at me, shook his head and turned away in disgust, moving on to talk to another knot of people enjoying a pre-dinner libation before sitting down and having at each other as well as the food.

"Well, there's your answer," the moderate said. "They (the conservative wing of the Republican Party) don't want anyone who can't pass their litmus test on health care or abortion or what have you. Those who are acceptable can't win the nomination or the general election. It's a major problem for the GOP. It's almost like they're willing to stay home next year and concede the White House to Hillary Clinton rather than vote for one of their party's own who they don't see as reliable on the social issues."

Ah, yes, the folks whom MSM euphemistically term "values voters" (in English: "wedge-issue voters") are having strokes because their attacks on the Constitution will be coming to a close and none too soon for the survival of our nation.

Let's de-euphemize these "values" voters and call them what they really are: wedge-issue voters.

They're singularly unpatriotic: rather than a sense of civic pride and citizens' duty bringing them to the polls, it's the joy of taking something away from someone else that does it. A voter with values would value the Constitution and all the rights accorded by it. The wedge-issue voters have amply demonstrated their willingness to take razor-knives to our founding document, so long as it favors their narrow agenda and dehumanizes their fellow citizens. That is tantamount to treason at the worst; subversiveness at the very best.

They're mentally and morally lazy: it's easier to come forth in droves like ants after honey when they, in equal mindlessness with the ants, simply follow what some rich crook tells them to do. Let some K-Street sleazeball, or sleazeball-connected big-box preachah, raise their banners in the name of weird, mostly insane notions of "morality", out the wedge-issue voters pour. That thinking stuff's just way too hard for them and they'd rather just bleat along with the other stupid sheep.

Rather than just fading back into the nutcase woodwork they came out from, perhaps their disdain for the Constitution and their fellow human beings would be better served in a nation that's made just the way they like it, with religion in schools, spies and "moralistic" judges with eyes and ears in the bedrooms and a totalitarian, strongman sort of government they so crave for the rest of us.

It's called Iran. I say, let's pass the hat and help them get to their Beulahland, and good f'ing riddance to lazy, unpatriotic, hypocritical rubbish.

Next tidbit.

Reigning ayatollahs of the right soon to be powerless
By FRANK RICH
SYNDICATED COLUMNIST

With the new president heading off to his Texas vacation during that slow news month of August 2001, I wrote a column about a man who would never be president: Rudy Giuliani. Banished from Gracie Mansion after dumping his second wife for Judith Nathan, New York's lame-duck mayor had been bunking for two months with a gay couple. No brand-name American politician had ever publicly done such a thing, so I decided to pay a visit to Rudy's home away from home.

His Honor was out that day, but Howard Koeppel, a garrulous Queens car dealer, and his partner, Mark Hsiao, a Juilliard-trained pianist, were gracious tour guides to their 32nd-floor apartment on East 57th Street. I asked Koeppel, a born comic, whether it was unexpected that Rudy would live with an openly gay couple. "I don't know if it's any more unusual than him wearing a dress," he deadpanned. On a more sober note, Koeppel told me that the connubially challenged mayor was an admirer of his and Hsiao's relatively "idyllic life" and had assured them that "if they ever legalized gay marriages, we would be the first one he would do."

That this same Rudy Giuliani would emerge as the front-runner in the Republican pack six years later is the great surprise of the 2008 presidential campaign to date, especially to the political press. Since the dawn of the new century, it has been the rarely questioned conventional wisdom, handed down by Karl Rove, that no Republican can rise to the top of the party or win the presidency without pandering as slavishly as George W. Bush has to the most bullying and gay-baiting power brokers of the religious right.

Oh happy day!!!! and Jesus save us from the deceivers who claim to be Your followers. There isn't a republic in office who isn't a liar, crook, thief and deceiver. The 80% of us who are still loyal Americans want our country back, thankyouverymuch.

Hey, America, had about enough of the nutjobs running the show, ruining the economy and slashing your rights? Had enough of endless, planless, directionless war that exists only for the benefit of Cheneyburton profiteers? Had enough lies and hypocrisy?

The solution: run every Republic out of office and tar their robot followers with the destruction they've wrought. No more "nice": pin their crap on them and let them wear it home like a scarlet letter "S" for stupid.

ROFLOL @ the Righteous Rant of the Day!!

Thank you {{HillBill}} ;-)

Time for me to walk the dog! INteresting article I found.

Pew Research Center for the People & the Press
12% - Secular Americans

The number of Americans who say they are atheist or agnostic, or choose not to identify with a religious tradition has increased modestly over the past two decades, with Pew surveys since the beginning of 2006, finding that 12% of U.S. adults identify themselves as secular or unaffiliated with a religious tradition; that compares with 8% in the Pew values survey in 1987.

This change appears to be generational in nature, with new cohorts coming of age with lower levels of commitment to a religious tradition. Among respondents born before the baby boom (that is, prior to 1946), only about 5% are secular or unaffiliated compared with more than double that number among Baby Boomers (11%).

The most secular Americans are those 30 and younger -- sometimes called "Generation Y" -- 19% of whom do not identify with a religious tradition. Pew surveys taken over the past 20 years show that, within each age cohort, the size of the secular group has remained constant over time indicating that people have not become less secular as they have aged. For example, 14% of members of "Generation X" (born 1965-1976) did not identify with a religious tradition in 1997, about the same as in 2007.

Democrats and independents are less likely than Republicans to identify with a particular religious tradition, and the gap has widened over the past two decades. Currently, 5% of Republicans say they are atheist, agnostic, or decline to state a religious preference, which is the same percentage that did so in 1987. But the number of Democrats in this category is now 11%, up from 7% in 1987; currently 17% of independents are classified as secular, an increase from 9% in 1987.

Good morning, again. Just stopping by.

Boy, Bush has some major plumbing problems to take care of in this country and Iraq. I guess he like Donna Perino thinks that global warming will make them all dry up?

Major Iraqi dam in danger of collapse

WASHINGTON (AFP) - Iraq's largest dam is in danger of collapse and could putting hundreds of thousands at risk in the cities of Mosul and Baghdad.

US experts have warned that the Mosul dam in northern Iraq could buckle under the water pressure, according to The Washington Post, which based its report on assessments by the US Army Corps of Engineers and other US officials.

"The Mosul dam is judged to have an unacceptable annual failure probability," said the Army Corps of Engineers draft report, according to the Post.

It is "the most dangerous dam in the world," read the report, scheduled to be released Tuesday.

As many as 500,000 civilians in Mosul and Baghdad were at risk from any deluge, dam manager Abdulkhalik Thanoon Ayoub told the Post.

A 27 million dollar US reconstruction project to help strengthen the dam has been marred by incompetence and mismanagement, according to a report by a US oversight agency, the Post reported...

news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20071030/pl_afp/iraqusunrestdam

I guess Condi hired the same no-bid contracter Bush Pioneer to fix this dam in Iraq that they hired to strenghten the levees in New Orleans? If the Iraqis haven't already fled to Syria or Jordan, I'd started moving to higher ground immediately.

Besides, with a severe water shortage in the United States, why are we spending any money to fix dams in Iraq? I don't recall voting to make Iraq our 51st state.

What kind of national security is Bush offering anyone these days? Forget military surges, levees, and dams. We all need bomb shelters for WW III.

just dickin around:

"Nobody got shot, but Vice President Cheney still fired up controversy Monday when he went hunting at a private club that hangs the Confederate flag.

A Daily News photographer captured the 3-by-5 foot Dixie flag affixed to a door in the garage of the Clove Valley Gun and Rod Club in upstate Union Vale, N.Y."

check out the photo. cheney's folks claim no one from his team saw the vile flag but i thought the secret service went over each place he puts his fat ass with a fine toothed comb??

what i stand for contest from youtube

gregg, Union Vale is in Dutchess County. I just can't consider that upstate NY. I guess anything outside of NYC is now considered upstate. And I think Pam is right - we should have our next meetup there. :-)

You know that none of the candidates have debated in the colleges that I am aware of. I am sure politicians are not avoiding the youth of our nation, and those who served our nation.

Posted by dlesterpoet on October 29, 2007 at 12:08 PM

From Wikipedia I found out that half of the 14 Democratic Presidential debates have been held at universities and colleges. 5 out of the 11 Republican debates so far have either been held at, or produced in conjuction with a university or college.

Now you are aware.

Dawn,

Gotta shake it when the spirit moves, y'know :-D I've really had it up to the eyeballs that first GLBT people get thrown under the bus, then African-Americans, then all women, and they flush the remnants of the Constitution down on top of us. Most of these 20%-er's who've been wagging the dog need a big, steel-toed boot up their arses, just for starts. A hemp necktie for subversiveness against the Constitution and American rule of law is what they richly deserve.

The only thing that gets them out from in front of the idiot box (Faux Noise or some ranting preachah-crook) is the thrill of trodding on someone else who wasn't hurting them in the least to start with. What viagra can't do for their little toothpicks, they have to depend on pure evil to make up. It's a pitiful existence they lead, and I'm sick unto death of them trying to make it mine.

The lying, spying, war profiteering, theft of our treasury, despoilment of our natural resources, the press full of bullshit -- every bit of that can be laid right at the feet of the idiot wedge-issue voters who refused and still refuse to see how their insanity has brought this once-great nation to its knees. These so-called Reagan republics are just exactly like him: mentally lazy, disconnected with reality, uninterested in becoming something other than fat, stupid, uneducated cattle; fit for nothing but the slaughter, just the way their leaders like it.

They're welcome to throw away their rights. They're most decidedly not welcome to throw away mine. If they don't like it here, then perhaps they'd be happier somewhere else. I say, let's take up a collection and send them on their fat, lazy, stupid way.

still ccccold out!

Posted by gregg on October 30, 2007 at 12:43 PM

AWESOME!! PEACE! Love it! Me 2, Me 2!

these hunt clubs for the very rich are nations unto themselves. and what could be more fitting for the guy who positioned the supreme court to bring back segregation than to fly his colors!

Posted by gregg on October 30, 2007 at 09:10 AM

I thought his color was YELLOW, like the stripe running down his back.

Posted by HillWilliam4Edwards08 on October 30, 2007 at 12:46 PM

I'd find a way to contribute to that one!!!

What viagra can't do for their little toothpicks, they have to depend on pure evil to make up. It's a pitiful existence they lead, and I'm sick unto death of them trying to make it mine

LMAO {{Bill}}}

I have said more than once, it all stems back to their itty bitty teeny weeny peenies, and the fact they have to make up for it in self created Testesterone. There is not a Republican out there, including those who stumble into here, who are Real men! If they were, they would not be the racist, homophobic, xenophobic , disrespecters of females, that they all are.

Judging from the lukewarm feeling by most Dems towards the candidates and the tepid response from repugs toward their cast of curious candidates, I would guess that voter turnout next year will consist of the "Hillary haters" and the "anyone but a republican" crowd.

What a mess. "It's like trying to find gold in a silver mine"....

Let's de-euphemize these "values" voters and call them what they really are: wedge-issue voters.

They're singularly unpatriotic: rather than a sense of civic pride and citizens' duty bringing them to the polls, it's the joy of taking something away from someone else that does.

Posted by HillWilliam4Edwards08 on October 30, 2007 at 12:13 PM

Bill,

What a truly excellent analysis.

The only thing I would add is that those in the Republican leadership are also multinational royalists. They could care less whether United States becomes a militarily-weak banana republic with unenforced immigration laws.

They're happy as long as they can live like kings spying and torturing anyone they please, exporting jobs, and herding minorities into prisons without equal justice.

To think we now have these idiot Dixiecrats coming in her regularly complaining that they are now being abused by their heroes, too.

Get in line, idiots. It's only going to get worse. BushCo has it all mapped out and your sudden enlightenment won't mean a thing, because they know how to manipulated you and you're too damned stupid not to let them do again and again.

If these doorknobs could just let go of their prejudices and find true religion, this country could be great again.

Well, Blue, I am not in love with Hillary, but I do not despise her either, and am willing to give her the benefit of the doubt as to how she will lead if elected. In 4 years we can demand a Primary to switch her if we have to and if we remain United.

Posted by SandyH on October 30, 2007 at 01:05 PM

religion is what GOT US INTO THIS MESS

ru kiddin?

Iraq bill would lift contractor immunity
The Iraqi government on Tuesday approved draft legislation lifting immunity for foreign private security companies, sending the measure to parliament, a spokesman said. The question of immunity has been one of the most serious dispute between the U.S. and the Iraqi government since a Sept. 16 shooting involving Blackwater USA guards that left 17 Iraqi civilians dead. Full Story:

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20071030/immunity_blackwater_071030/20071030?hub=World

No free ride for polluters

Hi,

It's looks pretty clear that some kind of pollution credit system will be created soon to try to get a handle on the climate crisis. Polluting industries are trying to turn that legislation into a massive program of corporate subsidies. Their plan--giving away the credits for free to big polluters--punishes new companies and companies who got a jump on cleaning up their act.

But a full public auction makes sure that everyone plays fair by charging them equally to pollute and raises money to help pay for America's transition to the clean energy economy. Most of the Democratic presidential candidates have endorsed the public auction--which means industry is in a hurry to lock up the other system while we still have this President and this Congress.

I just signed a petition to ask our Congress to make sure any climate legislation has a public auction to sell pollution credits. Signing a petition may not feel like a lot. But it's a first step. And there's a lot at stake--$50 to $150 billion. Enough money to help all Americans transition to a clean energy economy. Our representatives need to hear clearly that we care about this issue.

Can you join me by signing the petition?

http://pol.moveon.org/nofreeride

Thanks!

Posted by BlueinIdaho on October 30, 2007 at 01:03 PM

Blue,

Probably so. What a mess. It's an indictment of politics gone wicked and a free press too lazy to do it's job.

But I think there are also a lot of frightened and decent folks out there who would like to vote for someone who offers hope and reconsiliation...if the party would only allow them a fair chance to be nominated.

These early debate schedules and primaries are a recipe for disaster for our Democracy. Why don't the Centalists trust Americans any longer?

The MSM pretends that Edwards doesn't matter but I think he is one of the best hopes for the Dems.

Posted by Cate on October 30, 2007 at 10:21 AM

Oh no, Cate, haven't you heard? Hillary is the nominee. Hail Illuminati! Besides, Edwards is a bigot, didn't you know? His supporters are all racist, so he must be too. :gasp: Wait! That means you're one of them racist types too!

Iraqi dam 'at risk of collapse'
The largest dam in Iraq is at risk of an imminent collapse that could unleash a 20m (65ft) wave of water on Mosul, a city of 1.7m people, the US has warned.
Full Story:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7069109.stm

Maybe the Political Parties need to divide like in England; the House of Lords and the House of Commoners that the majority of Americans need to survive. The Royalty of Political Families can serve the Country Clubs and have Fashion shows. The other Politicians of Hearts can would on our infra structure, trade deals gone sour, and Royal graft. They will try to impede the High Society right of immunity from all accountable laws. Yes, we need to drive the stake into the heart of politics and divide the parties; the Corporate Government Religion of Patriot Act Party, and the "We the people" religion of patriot Party.

Hilleary since you are the media and the corporate selected leader you can have the Presidency. "We the people" will take the Vice Presidency to revamp the Constitution back to Freedom and Democracy where are citizens are the beneficiaries of own taxes. Hail Hilleary, the Bush successor of Victorian strong-arm rule. And a George Washington like VP who will wear the flag of America's interest, hip, hip, hooray, we will have somebody for its people.

Our Royal family is more corrupt than the English monarchy ever thought to be. They control the media, the Internet, and any means of communicating banning any writer, thinker, and free spirits who dares question them for the truth, like Hilleary they want the questions known beforehand and to their agenda. That are like a FEMA meeting where the questions are Hollywood Production Propaganda ads. Try to wear your free speech into a Bush meeting, or a Hilleary meeting and you find their censorship.

These ideas are abstract to open up ideas in the classroom called America that needs to debate the issues in the open air of Freedom and Democracy's Free Speech and Free Press. Look at FoxNews and CNN and see how bad the news have gone in the gutter where they tell you how to think as puppets. These News Reporters tell US we must go to war with Iran, that we must have a certain religious view advocating Religious and Corporate Wars. There compassions are like Katrina State Farm Insurance companies and drowning victims that they want to later bulldoze under. What is this political religion of Blackwater killing that says they are just Moslem God's children. Label and Judge ye Christian Conservatives; who may enter your churches, go into your schools, enter your Fraternities, and sit beside you in your segregated heaven. Then let God have the right to unite US as a country, where the verse is about love over hate. One can then hug in the compassion of being a commoner in God's divine heart. God may choose to send politicians and the U.S. royals into purgatory or back to grade school to learn the Constitution of diverse equality. Alas this is but a fairy tale that we can segregate politicians as wolves leaving the lambs at peace alone.

Mistakes in this, I have to go back dreaming about my Poetry making pennies for each character paying a double cheeseburger. Why are there so many mistakes, I am not of the Royal family of American noxious gases.

Posted by Dawn on October 30, 2007 at 01:11 PM

Dawn,

No, I'm not. What is passing for organized religion these days isn't the real thing. The real thing is wonderful. Don't reject it out of hand.

I wasn't excited about Kerry either. Really.

Posted by SandyH on October 30, 2007 at 01:17 PM

religion and politics do not mix

but you know that

Posted by PamB on October 30, 2007 at 01:07 PM

I don't "hate" her either, but for the GP they aren't exactly excited about the selections on either side. I am only predicting strong voter apathy. A shame we couldn't come up with a stronger candidate that would appeal to more voters.

What would you rather have? A politician taking stuff and not saying but making the best decisions and improving things? "Or a politician who names all the drugs he or she has taken but makes lousy decisions for the country?" he asked during the GQ interview. "A politician's job is to do what's best for the people and to improve the country, the economy, the environment. Why should I care if a politician takes sleeping pills every night so long as he can do his job?"

Posted by Dawn on October 30, 2007 at 10:14 AM

Argh! I f**king HATE that trick! That f**king PUKE, making it seem like it's an either or situation! ARGH!! I want a politician who tells me what they DID, AND who makes the right decisions! And guess what, you friggin MORONIC Austrian ASSHOLE...DRUG ADDICTS MAKE BAD DECISIONS.

Seriously, how high did Arnie GET while sucking Bush's ass the other day?

Poet,

I'd rather they'd all just move to Berlin and stop pretending to be anything but the fascists they are. Bush would love it there; he just doesn't know it yet.

We need to get them to leave. Maybe if we planted insects in their homes and told them there aren't any in Europe? Someone would have to gag DeLay, so he doesn't let the cat out of the bag. But it might work? They're pretty stupid about things like that...don't trust science or common sense.

I think it's worth a try. The Bush crime family has already bought all that land and fresh water reserves in Paraguay. So it's not as if they haven't already thought about leaving us behind in wake of the ruins they're creating?

DRUG ADDICTS MAKE BAD DECISIONS.

Posted by GregL on October 30, 2007 at 01:22 PM

so do morons

and morons on crack make even MORE bad decisions

lol

Posted by Dawn on October 30, 2007 at 10:42 AM

Yeah, and that interview was the first time I found out that not only is she a gorgeous redhead, but she's British, with SUCH a beautiful accent. :)

And just this moment I found out she's his THIRD wife! Whoo! Ok, we need to get him and the Ghoulmeister as the candidates! LOL!

Good Morning ALL

I had to LMAO this morning when I saw Bush come out with the four henchmen of the GOP to complain that no clean bills are making it to his desk to sign. Poor Bushie. What part of NO BLANK CHECK does Bush not get? Bush and the GOP have spent money like drunken sailors on shore leave and only now does he want to appear to be fiscally responsible? LOL I'm sick of Bush openly lying about SCHIP.

What I don't understand is why Pelosi and Reid weren't speaking directly after Bush to respond to his lies. That is how misinformation happens.

Maybe it is time to replace Pelosi and Reid as the House/Senate leadership if they won't do the will of the people and won't respond to lies.

Saw a fabulously funny youtube the other day. An accurate visual representation of what GWB has been doing to lady liberty. I'd post it but it's a little on the raunchy side.

GregL-
Funny. Yeah, and Edwards lives in a big house, so we don't want him and his perfect hair either.

God the things the MSM comes up with to distract people from issues. The only thing is that it seemed to work with the BS about Al Gore being wooden. If only...

Posted by GBGram on October 30, 2007 at 01:28 PM

I am all for replacing Reid. And I'd like to replace Steney Hoyer with Murtha!

THEN we'd get some WORK done!!! with STRENGTH that everyone keeps claiming they NEED to see!

jmo

I still think Nancy has a chance to redeem herself.

Reid will NEVER be able to appear strong or awake! lol jmo. But come ON!

WE need someone like Ann Richards in the Senate.

She was a kick butt lady!

Posted by GregL on October 30, 2007 at 01:27 PM

3rd for HIM or her???

WOW didn't know that either. Nope not me. There will BE no 3's the CHARM. No thanks. lol ;-)

religion and politics do not mix

but you know that

Posted by Dawn on October 30, 2007 at 01:19 PM

Of course I know that. Geeze, Dawn. It's that blurring of the lines between religion and politics that allowed those no-good opportunists to manipulate with their wedge isssues.

But don't deny me or others that make religion (organized or not) a part of their lives the opprtunity to believe there is something special guiding our paths.

The Labor-HHS-Education bill provides funding for America's biggest priorities -- job training, health services, Head Start, cancer research, veterans' health, education and more.

President Bush is threatening to veto this bill. He says it's just too much money. He can spend hundreds of billions on his Iraq debacle, but he can't find money to spend on America's priorities?

Sign the petition to invest in the home front. Tell Congress to pass this legislation with a veto-proof majority and override any Bush veto. It's time to invest in America!

http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/afscme_lhhs_petition/?qp_source=bgdk1

A shame we couldn't come up with a stronger candidate that would appeal to more voters.Posted by BlueinIdaho on October 30, 2007 at 01:19 PM

well, she may still pull a big enough boo boo to get her thrown off the throne, but she is running the campaign too rigidly right now. Watch how if/when she wins the Primary, she suddenly switches her messages to try and reach more Republicans and Independents. Right now, she is only interested in Dems votes. You think she is leaning right now, we ain't seen nothing yet.

Sandy,

Precisely. The race beyond the borders began some years back when the Republics allowed offshore lockbox "corporations" to carry our dollars and our jobs where we'll never see either of them again. They've parted out our home-grown technology, corporations, our taxpayer-owned national parks to buddies who take taxpayer-owned resources for private profits, our forests for private profit, our water and land -- all for the benefit of a very few at the expense of the overwhelming majority.

Those dollars and resources belong to all of us, not the privileged few who take the money and run with it offshore.

These same fatcats are going into poor nation after poor nation, privatizing water and resources in just the same way. There's little wonder that America is so despised. If you're lucky enough to have Dish Network, you can get Free Speech TV, Link TV and Verio -- small islets of news about how these same corporate pirates are doing worldwide on an even more devastating scale what they're doing to us here at home. The reports authored by Dr Vendana Shiva are frightening eye-openers and portents of what we'll be facing unless we put an immediate halt to privatization.

First, let's cut the bullshit and call it what it is: piratization. Corporate pirates, run amok, stealing whatever bounty they can lay their hands on. They're stealing it from us -- the taxpayer and citizen, who in bald point of fact are the owners of the resources they're stealing and selling back to us at elevated prices.

If America is ever to hold its collective head up in the world, we must -- absolutely must -- put a stop to this BushCo-style worldwide economic rape.

Dawn

I disagree about Nancy. The moment he stated that Impeachment was off the table she lost me.

It is obvious that she, like Bush, cares nothing for the US Constitution, otherwise she would have cted accordingly.

Bush and Cheney have committed High Crimes and Misdemeanors - the US Constitution squarely states that they MUST BE IMPEACHED, not maybe, not based on votes, it states they MUST BE IMPEACHED. Pelosi and Reid both swore on bibles to protect and defend the constitution. Ignoring this violates the constitution, nothing more.

I do not know if Nancy and Harry are making up the rules themselves, or if they are being advised, but they are obviously following some bad advice and they don't know it.

My feeling is that guys like Schumer of DSCC and Emmanual of DCCC and the talking heads from DLC all telling them to play it carefully, do not appear Too aggressive, do not rattle any Republican nor Bush cages, don't let the American public think they are just playing politics.

They DO need replacing, IMO, but to whom I do not know.

upstate is what ever is north of where you are. as a kid on long island going to fishkill was considered going upstate. then i found out about the adirondacks...that is really upstate!

there is not much there, there in unionvale. of course the place where cheney went is a hunt club for REALLY, REALLY rich people and it was on those grounds that the evil flag was on display.

a meet up here would be great, if my kitchen is finished i could cook up a meal. the place to stay is in rhinebeck and is called the beekman arms. it might be expensive but a few of you could split the cost of a room and be quite comfortable with your own fireplace and lots of quaint shops and all.

What will IMPEACHMENT do?

For one it will take the GOP off Iran and onto saving their own skins. In all actuality we CAN and SHOULD expand IMPEACHMENT to include others in the GOP.

Dawn, I loved Ann Richards! Now she would have made a GREAT US president!

Pam

Who should Pelosi and Reid listen to? My take, the people. When you start to listen to "advisors" and not to the people you loose every time.

Here is how impeachment works. NOTE although the House brings about charges , it is the Senate that decides punishment. Anybody got a picture of this existing Senate doing anything more than slapping them on the hands????

Q. What is impeachment?
A. It is a process, authorized by the Constitution, to bring charges against certain officials of the federal government for misconduct while in office.

Q. Who are these officials?
A. Article 2, Section 4, specifies that "The President, Vice President and all civil officers of the United States, shall be removed from office on impeachment for, and conviction of, treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors." These "civil officers" include federal judges and cabinet members, but do not include Senators and Representatives, (the Senate and House deal with misconduct by their own members).

Q. What is the role of the House of Representatives in impeachment under the Constitution?
A. Article 1, Section 2, of the Constitution specifies that "the House of Representatives...shall have the sole power of impeachment." This means that it has the power to bring charges against an official.

Q. What is the Senate's role under the Constitution?
A. Once impeached, high officials are tried by the Senate. Article 1, Section 3, specifies, "The Senate shall have the sole power to try all impeachments. When sitting for that purpose, they shall be on oath or affirmation. When the President of the United States is tried, the Chief Justice shall preside: And no person shall be convicted without the concurrence of two thirds of the members present."

Q. What punishment does the Constitution prescribe if the official is convicted?
A. Article 1, Section 3, also specifies, "Judgment in cases of impeachment shall not extend further than to removal from office, and disqualification to hold and enjoy any office of honor, trust or profit under the United States: but the party convicted shall nevertheless be liable and subject to indictment, trial, judgment and punishment, according to law."

to believe there is something special guiding our paths.
Posted by SandyH on October 30, 2007 at 01:39 PM

I totally agree with that Sandy, but DO NOT agree with this (below) that's all I was saying.

If these doorknobs could just let go of their prejudices and find true religion, this country could be great again.
Posted by SandyH on October 30, 2007 at 01:05 PM

like it can't be great w/out your version of true religion - sorry that's just not true.

GB Gram,

Have you ever met a politician that thinks the people know more than they do about issues and politics?

I am sure in their own way, Reid and Pelosi think they are doing what is best FOR the people, and that we just don't understand.

Don't forget every day, they are told those of us who are complaining, who are calling, emailing faxing, them are nothing but the leftist base. They should not pay attention to us.

back later,

I can't WAIT for the debate tonight! We shall SEE!

10/30/2007
Philadelphia Debate - Hillary: The Strength and Experience to Make Change Happen

Losing ground in the polls, Senator Barack Obama announced over the weekend that he intends to abandon the politics of hope and attack Hillary in tonight’s debate.

While her rivals hurl negative attacks, Hillary will continue to demonstrate her deep understanding of the issues and outline her positive vision for America.

Despite repeated attacks from Obama and John Edwards, Hillary enters tonight’s debate in a position of strength. A Los Angeles Times/Bloomberg poll out last week shows her leading the primary by 31 points, and beating all of the Republicans in head-to-head general election matchups. And a recent CBS News poll showed Hillary surging to a 28-point lead.

In Philadelphia tonight, Hillary will make the case that she has the strength and experience to deliver the change America needs.

On Iraq, Hillary will talk about her three-step plan to get our troops home in the smartest, safest way we can. She’ll make it crystal clear that if George Bush won’t end this war before he leaves office, as President, she will.

On Iran, she will make clear that we need to prevent President Bush’s rush to war while engaging in aggressive diplomacy to stop Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. Hillary was among the very first Senators to speak out and make clear that George Bush does not have the authority to go to war in Iran, and is a co-sponsor of legislation to prevent him from doing so.

At home she’ll detail her plan to offer quality, affordable health care to every American, move the nation toward energy independence and rebuild the road to the Middle Class.

Tonight, Americans will be reminded why poll after poll show that voters believe Hillary has the best combination of strength and experience to be President.

Pam,

Thank you for posting the information on Impeachment (but I already knew all that) This is what impeachment if suppose to formally do. But we also know that Impeachment does other things. It distracts a president from his daily duties, it puts a party in a twither, it puts a spotlight on former actions by the president and his administration, it opens dialoge, etc.

As for a slap on the wrist, that would depend on the crimes. Lying about a blowjob should have resulted in a slap on the wrist, illegally wiretapping domestically pre 9/11 is something else. I think that this would require more than a slap on the wrist. Wouldn't you agree?

If we levy "real" charges that can not be disputed the nation will watch to see how their senators will vote - just like how they did when Clinton was Impeached.

Will we have the necessary 2/3'rd votes - that depends on the crimes uncovered. Even with Justice Roberts leading the senate in the Impeachment it will be too difficult for the GOP senate to ignore crimes and hold their seats.

As for the debate tonight, I can't wait either.

As for a ticket I would like to see:

Gore/Edwards

if Gore declines a nomination by the party

then

Edwards/Dodd or Edwards/Boxer

sigh

AL

oh AL

AL do you WANT to be President in 08?
You could you know. But you've GOT to want it!

I wonder though it seemed the other day that the IHATEALGORE CLUB came out in full force against him even getting a Nobel!!! Nothing about him running they are all just HUGE HATERS! They're gonna RAIN the HATE on whomever we pick so they BETTER be armed and ready for it!

hey a night crawler popped up in the day time. not a good idea worm, the lawn mower may cut your head off...

Wow, that was a quick extermination!

Crimestop: an accurate account of the GOP

A Party member...is supposed to live in a continuous frenzy of hatred of foreign enemies and internal traitors, triumph over victories, and self-abasement before the power and wisdom of the Party. The discontents produced by his bare, unsatisfying life are deliberately turned outwards and dissipated by such devices as the Two Minutes Hate, and the speculations which might possibly induce a sceptical or rebellious attitude are killed in advance by his early acquired inner discipline...called, in Newspeak, crimestop. Crimestop means the faculty of stopping short, as though by instinct, at the threshold of any dangerous thought. It includes the power of not grasping analogies, of failing to perceive logical errors, of misunderstanding the simplest arguments if they are inimical to Ingsoc, and of being bored or repelled by any train of thought which is capable of leading in a heretical direction. Crimestop, in short, means protective stupidity.

http://www.tinyrevolution.com/mt/archives/001654.html

10:32 AM 10/30/07

Somebody sent me an email with a link to a Democratic Party site asking me to submit a name for an event, but the site had a faulty script, I guess, and froze before I could hit enter to submit a name. The name I wanted to suggest was "Progressive Reform Day." I still think it's a good name, but now I would like to suggest it for the entire program of the Democratic Party, not just for a one-time event. It's what the party needs and what the nation needs--undoing the destruction wrought by Bush and the Neo-Conservatives on the nation and, more particularly, on the Constitution.

"Progressive Reform" means that all Democrats and their elected officials must stop foot-dragging, compromising, and ass-kissing. The nation is in real trouble and the party will be also if they continue to think that "business-as-usual" will suffice to save our democracy. What happened to the utterly corrupt Democrats of Louisiana was no accident, and it will happen in the rest of the states unless Democrats get their shit together and stop it. Remember "Progressive Reform", and get active! It's up to you to guard your freedom--you, and only you, can do it.

Posted by BlueinIdaho on October 30, 2007 at 03:12 PM

Does that go along with "All the answers are in this one book"?