Massachusetts Conservative Feminist | Ordinary: Degrees of Moderation and Sanity

Elizabeth Warren Gets the Nod from Mass. State Dem Convention – “Bubbling” Warren looks forward to Debate with Scott Brown- Won’t Commit to Debates

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 10:07:00 +0000

Elizabeth Warren, Obama Democrat gets the Go-Head at Dem. State Convention to challenge Senator Scott Brown in November - image The Atlantic.com

From the Boston Globe:Elizabeth Warren received the go ahead at the State Democrat Convention held in Springfield MA on Saturday June 2nd – she will face popular Senator, Republican Scott Brown in November. From the Globe:

“I’d love to see some debates with Scott Brown,” a bubbling Warren told reporters moments after her victory was announced. “Let’s get started on this. I’m ready.”……
Warren, who called Brown a “Mitt Romney Republican” and a “Wall Street Republican,” listed a series of votes the incumbent had made, including votes against a Democratic bill to prevent a doubling of student loan interest rates and in favor of big oil subsidies.
She also invoked the memory of the late Democratic Senator Edward M. Kennedy, who for 47 years held the seat that Brown won in a special election in 2010.
“It’s a long way from Ted Kennedy to Scott Brown,” said Warren.

(Boston Globe)

Brown has already accepted an invitation for one radio debate, and would like to see at least 3 to 4 debates, according to the Boston Herald, however Warren is not ready to commit” to any debates(Herald)

The point of the debate process would allow a small percentage of Massachusetts residents to see both the incumbent Brown and the challenger Warren go toe to toe – In the special election of 2009, Brown bested Martha Coakley in the two debates, which were not exactly “prime time” – Warren, who has already started hedging, may be difficult to pin down, and chances are debates will take place at odd times – the first debate on talk radio: WBZ AM Boston, with Dan Rea, was accepted by Brown – however, according to NECN: “On Sunday, a spokeswoman for Warren replied in an emailed statement that the Democratic candidate is glad Brown accepted her debate challenge on Saturday and that she will reach out to her rival to discuss details.” - , which is not necessarily a definitive “yes”, as implied by the cable station.

Warren, a Harvard Professor and Obama appointee, may be a step up from Coakley in the debate arena, however, judging from a debate between her and primary challenger Marisa DeFranco, she will struggle against Brown – (see: Video here) – Thereby, by narrowing the debate schedule and timing, it would benefit Warren – who is going to have an uphill battle, despite the implications by Massachusetts media and a recent poll by Western New England College and Masslive (The Springfield Republican) suggests that voters will identify Warren with Obama and Brown with Romney – giving Warren the edge, given the polls outcome of a significant lead in the Bay State by Obama over Romney However, missing from both the Western New England Polling Institute, and the Springfield Republican site, Masslive are the marginals – one can see the methodology – however, how the poll was parsed to be inclusive of the make-up of the state is not available.

That is important because if the poll was taken giving Western Massachusetts a larger share, than say, Worcester (Central Mass) there is the issue of population and voter affiliation being – equal to the actual election. Suffolk University Polling includes its marginals with the results, giving a distinct overview of the methodology and the makeup of the polls, which allows those who would read the polls, to understand if the poll accurately represents the electorate. In the case of Western New England’s polling – it does not.

One might believe that the lay of the land has changed since Scott Brown shocked the Beltway and won the “People’s Seat”, but it has not. Coakley got a little help from Barack Obama, and that association did very little to pull up her numbers – Invoking the late Senator who’s seat was open, may not do much for the general electorate, but Democrats in general who make up approximately one-third of registered voters in the Bay State.

What is perhaps, the most interesting aspect of the race, to date, is Warren’s advertising, which does not mention “party affiliation” rather speaks about her being “a regular person” – which begs the question, why is she distancing herself from screaming from the rafters “I’m a Democrat, friend of Barack Obama and a Harvard Professor (the later in there) – In the best scenario for Warren, she will pick up the majority of Democrat votes, and possibly shave off 8 to 10% of those unenrolleds who consistently vote Democrat – Brown would pick up the balance – giving him an approximate 5 point edge in the end results, despite the media’s best intent to forward Warren.

As to Obama’s lead in Massachusetts, that may be a given, understanding that in the last two Gallup state by state polls, (2010 and 2011 respectively), the President has approval ratings over 50% in 10 states, one of which is Massachusetts. The latest from the conservative (meaning careful in the instance) pollster suggests nothing has changed over the past three years , with Obama holding 50% or more in the same states. In addition, Gallup also reports on the partisan trends in states whereby the Republican’s have gained an advantage in several states – the top Democrat leaning states in Gallup’s research are: DC, HI, RI, MA, NY, MD, CT, VT, DE and IL, while the Democrats lost voters in : UT, WY, ID, AK, KS, NE, ND, AL, SD, MT (See article: States Move GOP 2011)

That said, Massachusetts has that independent streak, and to date, Brown has managed to vote his way, creating angst from the Far Right and the Far Left, which means he’s no rubber stamp, no matter how hard the state media, with the Democrat Party, attempts to paint him as a Mitt Romney Clone.

That also may not be the best idea, given the fact that Obama’s popularity in Massachusetts is based on polls that suggest he has overwhelming Democrat support – (the key word) – yet when push comes to shove in November, Mass voters may do what they have rarely done, vote Republican, for both Brown and Romney. As of this point, and this early out, it is clearly impossible to take polls seriously regardless of the results, (unless a specific pattern has been developed such as the state by state research by Gallup, trending three years of statistics – even that is subject, however, to change).

It will be, above all, entertaining to see (or hear) the debates between Brown and Warren, even if they are available to a narrow audience, one will be able to find recaps on YouTube, or the news sites, such as NECN, which should carry the entire debate on their website.

Bloggers personal note: In the early stages of the Brown Camping, it was recognized that he had the temperament, experience, and ability to run for Senate, and would appeal to both Republicans in Massachusetts (the few), some Democrats (no kidding) and those unenrolled (the majority). In a visit to a phone bank center located at one of the eight Brown campaign offices at that time, it was interesting to note that the majority of the hundreds of people phone banking were not Republican Party affiliates, rather: Democrats, Unenrolleds, Green Party, Libertarian – Brown, for all the hoopla surrounding the “Kennedy Seat” at the time, was helped by the “people” – After his win in January – Brown went back to each location across the state (in his pick-up truck no less) and personally thanked those who helped is campaign, those who voted for him, and even those who did not, he wanted a opportunity to meet them. In going to one of these events, it struck me that, although he may have run late for the next event he made sure he shook every hand, and spoke to each constituent there – it was not about partisan politics, it was genuine. – This is the kind of public servant, who regardless of party, is about doing the business of the people. Therefore, given the close ties that Warren has to the President, and seeing yet another rubber stamp in the making, it is clear that a Senator who has voted with and against him own party in the interest of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, gets the vote.

David Axelrod Visit to Boston – Greeted by Hecklers – Axelrod Fumbles Through Stump Speech

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 10:44:00 +0000

Romney Supporters Heckle Axelrod - See Suits, Signs - image from nationaljournal.com

On the other hand -

More hecklers, They do not appear to be Romney Supporters per se, rather disgruntled Mass. citizens - who will likely vote for Romney - not shown in videos - image: weaselzippers.com

President Obama’s Senior Advisor (White House and Campaign), David Axelrod, paid a visit to Boston to stump for Obama’s reelection. The Premise was to point out Obama’s opponent, former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney’s failings. However he was met with pro-Romney (according to the press reports) protesters. The headline from Politico sums it up: ”Axelrod Assails Mitt Battles Hecklers”. Apparently, the premise that Mr. Axelrod is hanging onto is the polls coming out of Massachusetts showing Obama with a wide lead over the former Governor Mitt Romney, as if that is bell weather for the Obama campaign. The problem lays in the fact that polls in Massachusetts can’t be trusted until the results are in. For example, a poll commissioned by the Boston Globe performed by the University of New Hampshire days before the special election of January 19th, 2009 for the vacant Mass. senate seat, had Democrat Martha Coakley up 15 points over Republican Scott Brown. The outcome was somewhat different.

Some facts about Massachusetts and past presidential polling: When Jimmy Carter was running against Ronald Reagan, it was anticipated that Carter would easily win Massachusetts, as well as the rest of the nation based on early polling (Washington Post). The fact that Reagan actually won Massachusetts (twice) which is touted as “Safe Democrat” in every election, was due to the high number of “unenrolleds” in the “Bluest State”. Massachusetts' electorate is 50% plus Unaffiliated or unenrolled voters. Therefore, for Mr. Axelrod to count on a poll, any poll, at this stage of the game as proof that Obama will sweep the Bay State, apparently shows his lack of expertise in the area of historical trends in polling. In addition, the fact that, especially in Massachusetts and neighboring states, University polls tend to be somewhat inaccurate in certain races (refer to Coakley) may not be the best bet. (Unless one is on a team of uncertainty - then use what you have on hand and punt.)

That said Axelrod may be correct about Massachusetts - if one were to use trends in job approval rankings as a statistic on election probability (combined with polls), it is quite possible that Obama would take Massachusetts over Romney – along with 9 other states where his approval rating is hanging onto 50%, the other 40 states, however, are most likely in jeopardy. Therefore, to win 10 states alone, one cannot win the Presidency.

The main point - regardless of polls and or statistics at this point, it is still far too early to rely on either, one must look to mid-October polling – the polls now are purely indicative of what may occur, rather than predictive of an outcome.
Of course being on the stump, and being heckled to boot, might have given Axelrod the “heebie-jeebies” as he most likely anticipated a larger crowd of Obama supporters in what is supposed to be a friendly state. As he stumbles through his speech, drowned out by "Romney supporters", he appears particularly uncomfortable. It is also assumed the hecklers were all Romney supporters, rather than a mixture of anti-Obama protesters. (Tea Anyone?) – the chant “Where are the Jobs” is not necessarily a “Romney Chant” – however from the angel of the video one cannot clearly see the “crowd” - rather a few in the front holding Romney signs. By the sound alone, one can well imagine there were more than a handful of Romney Supporters making such a din – the din, that as one can see below, rattled the Advisor in Chief.

What is clearly unusual about this particular instance in the minds of those on the left is the fact that – they were heckled, instead of doing the heckling! – This election one might find, in the end, will not be about political party affiliation as much as it will be about a choice between the lesser of two “evils” – those independents will be the deciding factor, even in the 10 states where Obama still holds onto a 50% job approval rating – Axelrod may find himself in similar situations as he moves about the country – he may find it more comfortable, going forward, to stump in Chicago.

Planned Parenthood Endorses Obama, Starts Anti-Romney Ad Blitz – While Vanity Fair Ponders “Why Are Women Warming Up to Mitt Romney”? – Seriously

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Thu, 31 May 2012 10:31:00 +0000

The Choices: Romney or Obama - image blackchristiannews.com

Planned Parenthood has formally endorsed President Barack Obama for - President - the publicly funded entity, which provides services for women, mainly abortions, also began an ad campaign in key swing states against the non-abortion candidate, Republican Mitt Romney. (LA Times). The Los Angeles Times article goes on to state that abortion activists are not entirely happy with the President as he “has generally supported legalized abortion, although he disappointed pro-choice advocates in 2010 when he signed an executive order affirming a ban on federal funding for most abortions.”(LA Times).

Romney on the other hand, changed his position from pro-choice to pro-life while Governor of Massachusetts – while Obama has not wavered in his support for abortion, including rejecting the “Born Alive” bill in Illinois while he was in the State Legislature. (Born Alive was instituted to save the lives of babies that were literally born alive after a late term or “botched” abortion and summarily left to die.)

It is not so much the endorsement of Obama by this particular institution that is problematic, rather the fact that a government funded program (regardless of the argument by Planned Parenthood that the funds are used solely for purposes of contraception) is endorsing any candidate for anything, including dog catcher. Planned Parenthood has a business model that accepts credit cards, insurance and will, if no other method of payment is available, perform pro-bono services, including abortions – all fall on the taxpayer’s dime.

(Note: This blogger is pro-life, preferring that there be no state sanctioned abortions nor state sanction executions – life is life.)

One would think that as Planned Parenthood begins its campaign against that monster, Mitt Romney who’s out to prevent abortions and keep the separation of Church and State by not mandating that religious organizations who are against contraception, sterilization and abortion be provided by say, the Catholic Church, is just not “good for women” they might want to bone up on the latest polls.

Apparently Planned Parenthood has not been paying attention to the polls, either the national temperature on issues, specifically abortion, nor a stunning discovery by Vanity Fair: that women are “warming up to” Mitt Romney” (Vanity Fair) – they attempt to understand it by noting that it must be the very likeable Ann Romney who is making her otherwise not likable husband into a likeable guy. Seriously, they are all missing the mark.

Polls in general have shown a swing in this nation from pro-choice to pro-life by a majority of individuals - Gallup: in 1995, 56% favored abortions, while 33% opposed, the balance had no opinion, that changed over the ensuing decade (along with the development of more sophisticated obstetric testing such as ultrasounds, putting, perhaps not a name, but a firm knowledge that there was a) a heartbeat and b) a living outline (now more three-d) of a real baby). The shift occurred in 2009, by the pollster’s numbers and now as of 2012, 50% consider themselves pro-life while 41% consider themselves pro-choice. (Gallup)

Of course, the issue, important to some, is not the top priority of American’s – that would be the economy and jobs, with social issues of less concern – which also answers the question posed by Vanity Fair – Women work, women pay the bills, woman worry about how to support families, women (sorry guys) bear the brunt of the burden when it comes to household finances, regardless of whether or not they are a “Stay at Home Mom” or a “Spouse” who works. Women overall are not stuck on one issue, for the sake of argument, “contraception and abortion” or the so called “war on women” – they are capable of multi-tasking – a genetic trait that is not necessarily shared by both genders (note: science meets feminist sarcasm). Therefore, on the top of the list would be the economy, the cost of feeding one’s families, rising costs of utilities, rising cost of fuel (to drive to work or heat or cool off one’s home), and clothing.

Therefore, women have a clear and defined choice, not that all women are politically thrilled with the choices, but that’s the way of it: one the one hand one can vote party line, or one can vote with one’s pocketbook – Romney is looking more appealing by the second, no matter how charming Ann Romney is, women are listening to the message of “economic growth” that is imperative to the survival of the basic family unit and/or that gorgeous pair of Jimmy Choo's. They are less concerned if Planned Parenthood even exists – what use is that organization or others for that matter, regardless of intent, if one cannot afford to pay the rent? – A woman may be homeless, but by God, she’ll have her contraceptives and free abortions! This may not be the best messaging. In fact, in some perverse center of the universe, the ads by Planned Parenthood ranting about how Great Obama is for abortion and contraceptives while Mitt Romney is not – may actually have the unintended consequence of backfiring – on both Candidate Obama and Planned Parenthood.

Women are not idiots, (although treated as such as equal pay still fails to exist) it doesn’t matter if they are pro-choice, pro-life at this point, it matters that they know money is being spent on something that is of little consequence if one does not have a job, and they understand that Planned Parenthood, on some level is using taxpayers funds to run the ads, while they may be a heartbeat away from a pink slip, or thinking how much further their paycheck could go if programs like Planned Parenthood, which could be privately funded (and are by insurance receipts), were not included in the increasingly heavy tax burden faced by all socio-economic groups. Taxes are not necessarily just those taxes one sees coming out of one’s paycheck (annoying enough), but the taxes on paper goods, the fact that the price of fuel directly affects the price of orange juice at the market, the myriad fee’s of both state and federal agencies one finds in one’s water bill, electric bill and cable bill (just to name a few.)

The correct answer is: Mitt Romney is appealing simply because he is not – Barack Obama.

The President is less appealing because he is associated with all the financial pain and suffering that women are enduring at this point – no matter how many times he blames Bush, or the alignment of the stars, or whatever excuse he may dream up, it boils down to the “bucks stops” at his desk. His fault – some may argue, some may argue otherwise, the scope of the economic problem was so large, that the President just could not take care of it in four years. To those one might suggest: read up on Ronald Reagan – the economy was in the tank under Carter – Reagan took office, and in two years, the economy was booming – he did what he had to do and the economy was his focus. It worked, go figure. Not every President is Reagan, or more to the point, there will never be another Ronald Reagan, however, those we elect are supposed to be smart enough to be able to read, and since we have historical data indicating that certain economical principles work, while others result in a dismal economy, and re-election failure, one would think – being a smart guy, one would follow the course that had proven, time and again, that it works. (Go back to JFK – reminder: a Democrat – in case partisanship is one’s pleasure).

Therefore, in the end, it is this opinion that Romney will do well with women, based on economics - the economy and jobs, Planned Parenthood might find they wasted a few million dollars on ads, and the best quote of the prior century is still valid: President William Jefferson Clinton: “It’s the economy, stupid”.

Mass. Democrats – Back-up Plan for U.S. Senate Run Against Scott Brown(R) – Insure DeFranco Get’s Delegates to Force Warren into Primary Fight

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Wed, 30 May 2012 11:06:00 +0000

From: New England Cable News: Meet Marisa DeFranco, the Immigration Attorney who is seeking 15% of the delegates at the Mass Democrat Convention on June 2nd in Springfield, MA – that would insure DeFranco would be able to challenge Elizabeth Warren in a primary.

Warren, who has gained nationwide notoriety for her ability to exaggerate her ancestry, (Washington Post) while dodging questions regarding a plaguerized cookbook based on the aforementioned, (Politico)she appears to be doing well in the polls so far, against incumbent Republican Scott Brown. That’s Massachusetts polls, the same polls that showed Martha Coakley with a 15 point lead over Scott Brown just days before the final election – the outcome was not quite what was expected.

Both Coakley and Warren have certain things in common – they are flawed, and they tied themselves to the Obama administration – which, on the surface, one might think that’s a bonus in Massachusetts or any heavy Democrat state, however, it is simply not the case. (Ask Martha Coakley, or more recently, in a “stunner” as the Houston Chronicle dubs it, long time Texas Congressman, Reyes, was ousted yesterday by a newcomer – who did not have the President stumping for him.(Houston Chronicle). 2010 and 2012 may be similar in that the Tea Party is still alive and kicking and the angst within both major political parties is glaringly apparent – as incumbents lose on the left and on the right – the people have had it – again.

(Of course, there is a little talked about priority of Tea Party activists to get elected by running as either a Democrat or Republican – once elected, there’s a different agenda, and the elections include races from the Party Representation Level to the Congress. Since most Tea Party members are unaffiliated, or former Republicans or Democrats (no kidding – despite the media drumbeat that they are Republicans), this ruse is a no-brainer. Think of them as guerilla politicos.)

What appears to be shaping up here according to the Boston Herald, is a Democrat Mutiny to Sink Warren, where the Herald suggests that Warren is more flawed than Coakley. That said, there is some history in Massachusetts, within the Democrat Party that holds a bit of “Hatfield and McCoy” flavor – the 2008 Convention fight, where Hillary Clinton clearly swept Massachusetts, making Clinton Democrats furious when “Party Leaders” such as the Kennedy’s, Kerry’s, et al, put forth Obama instead. The divide continues to exist as does the rancor.

Therefore, it is no stretch of the imagination to suggest that DeFranco will get her 15% (or plus) and push Warren into a primary and debate, possibly upsetting her in the primary, or at the very least, forcing her into positions and comments that will be of us to the Brown Campaign.

Last thought on Elizabeth Warren, although one has not seen her debate, anyone watching the Coakley-Brown debates understood that Coakley was outclassed – if Warren, as suggested by the Herald, might not be the best debate performer – the very popular Senator Scott Brown, should repeat his performance of 2009 – (that includes dead voters, missing voters, Disney character voters, all plugging for Warren, if she wins the primary.)

What boggles the mind, with all the very competent Democrat women who could make themselves available (Marisa DeFranco for example), why does the State DNC continue to put forth candidates that are so obviously flawed?

Debate between 2012 Democrat Candidates for Senate - DeFranco versus Coakely

Obama Fund-Raising Down in Massachusetts – Boston Globe cites Enthusiasm, Warren Campaign and Three Dem’s Fighting Hard for Seats

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Tue, 29 May 2012 10:57:00 +0000

Barack Obama and Elizabeth Warren - Warren Contributions taking away from Obama in MA according to the Globe< - image: familysecuritymatters.org

The Boston Globe Headline: “Obama donors lagging in Mass. (sub) Far fewer give maximum as enthusiasm wanes”speaks to the woes of the Obama Campaign in Massachusetts, and how this Democrat “Cash Cow” state, has seen numbers dwindle since 2008. It appears there are several factors at play, according to the article, chief among them are House and Senate races, specifically the race for Scott Brown’s Seat, challenged by Elizabeth Warren, whose claim of Cherokee Heritage has everyone talking, and three hotly contested Democrat Congressional Seats: Tsongas, Tierney and Keating.

There is also a Kennedy who is running for the 4th Congressional District Seat vacated by Barney Frank, much gerrymandered to be more Conservative (yes in Massachusetts) and possibly unwinnable by even a Kennedy – given the new make-up and the competition, the fact that with a heavily Democrat favored district in 2010, Frank barely held on by Massachusetts standards, winning by 10 points, instead of 50 (as is the norm). The same was true for the aforementioned three in need of funds.

Giving money to Warren’s campaign, is akin to spitting into the wind at this point, although she is seen holding on in polls, or close to leading, Senator Scott Brown (R-MA) holds his own and then some with the largest voting bloc in the state, Unenrolleds, who make up over 50% of the electorate. Warren can count on the 35 to 36% of basic Democrat votes, (those who pull the lever, no matter who is running), and possibly 5 points in Unenrolled, dead voters, and those multiple voters, however, it is shaping up to be more of a Coakley-Brown Repeat, with Coakley merely stumbling and having no baggage.

Quotes from the Globe re: the aforementioned:

“Elizabeth Warren has sucked a lot of air out of the room,’’ said a 2008 Obama fund-raiser who asked not to be identified out of deference to the campaign. “She has supplanted Barack Obama as this year’s phenom. So with Obama without a primary opponent, it’s like, what’s the sense of urgency?’’

Many Bay State Democratic fund-raisers have also been energized by Joseph Kennedy’s congressional campaign, and some incumbent House Democrats, such as William Keating, Niki Tsongas, and John Tierney, are also fighting to hang on to their seats.

What is not discussed in depth, rather in passing is the economy. Massachusetts, although touted as improved, has its cash and unemployment woes, rising costs at the grocery store and the pump, just like the other 49 states – People simply do not have the money to donate to political campaigns in 2011 - 2012 that they had in 2007 – 2008. Not mentioned: the fact that there is a challenger (Mitt Romney) raising money in the same Commonwealth) – those donors may run in different circles, with the exception of the died in the wool Dem’s and Republican’s in the state, it’s the Independents again, that will pay the cash and the vote in MA.

A national snapshot follows via the FEC: From 2011-2012 – Individual donors nationwide have contributed $169,058,434, to President Obama’s campaign, with $98,170,540 Contributed to Romney’s campaign. In addition, Romney’s campaign has $0 debt, while Obama has debts owed of $1,200(FEC) Understanding that this does not include “bundlers”, or funds coming from political parties and/or Super Pac’s – those can be found here - where currently one can see the disparity for the President as to the PAC’s and national parties, special interest groups and PAC's against Obama outweigh those for Obama (both in number and in cash).

Although in almost every contest, one is told the Cash value of a candidate weighs in on his/or her future as an incumbent, however, in this race, at this time, it may be more of a clash of the Titans, (as far as cash is concerned, and an army of those who have had enough heading to the polls.

If any one indicator stands out on enthusiasm, it is the numbers coming in for the President in the Democrat Primaries:
In Massachusetts for Example: Obama received 89% of the primary votes with 11% showing no preference: total votes: 127,264 Obama, 16,239 No Preference. When compared to the Republican Party Primary: Romney received 79%, with Santorum 12%, Paul 10% and Gingrich 5%. In addition on the ballot were Bachmann, Huntsman, Perry and yes, No Preference. (Perry, Bachmann and Huntsman had pulled out of the race earlier). Total votes cast for Romney: 265,110, total votes cast in the Republican Primary: 340,264. No Preference: 1,860 votes cast.

What makes this interesting is that the Democrat Party in Massachusetts had a concerted “get out the vote” effort to show party superiority in that Primary, lest the Republican’s show more enthusiasm (obviously did not work) – in Primaries, the diehards vote, (i.e. political junkies), and those that have enthusiasm for a candidate. It could be argued that Romney did better than Obama purely because there was more hoopla about the Republican contest, however, again, this is Massachusetts.

Therefore, although shown as “Safe Democrat” again, and again, and again, ad naseum (including the Scott Brown special election of 2009), this time Massachusetts may, yet again, re-elect a Republican Governor, as President. There is clearly a lack of enthusiasm among the rank and file, both in opening their wallets and the party leadership getting their people to the polls.

Memorial Day Reminds US that Freedom Isn’t Free – The reasons we remember

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Mon, 28 May 2012 11:14:00 +0000

The Battle of Yorktown - image britishbattles.com

To most of the U.S. Citizenry, Memorial Day marks the beginning of the summer season, some area vaguely aware that here is another element, one which those who are not necessarily commercialized understand deeply. There are those who have fought in conflicts and war since the Revolutionary War, that are honored each Memorial Day for the Sacrifices they made to ensure that the nation was kept safe. Today, those who had fought, their relatives and friends, and those citizens who understand that the men and women on the frontlines of any conflict, are risking life and limb – for each and every one of us.

There is an old poem found, that sums up the “why we celebrate memorial day” question, as well as gives us the origin of the red poppies we find our veteran’s handing out in exchange for donations for the many things they do for their brothers in arms – “In Flanders Field"
From the Arlington Cemetery:

In Flanders Fields
By: Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872-1918)
Canadian Army

In Flanders Fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

A fairly decent synopsis of the history of Memorial Day can be found here:at www.usmemorialday.org.
From the Revolution to the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, one is reminded of those who loved country, this country so much, they put everything on hold, to defend the United States against those who would destroy our nation – in the very beginning, even before the first shots were fired, a unique streak of independence proliferated in the land where personal dreams became a reality, and no man, or woman, was subject to live a life a “state” or “monarchy” “suggested”, rather they were and remain free to make choices every day, on where to live, work and worship – all without fear – there are few nations that offer those options, and only one where the history of sacrifice runs as deep, for so long, as does those who have fight, and continue to fight for the United States of America.

The Ultimate Sacrifice for Freedom by conflict from the Congressional Record:

Revolutionary War: (1775-1783) 4435
War of 1812 (1812-1815): 2,260
Mexican War (1846-1848): 13,283

Civil War (Union Forces Only) (1861-1865): 364,511
Spanish-American War (1898-1901): 2,446

World War I (1917-1918) 116,516
World War II (1941-1946) 405,399

Korean War (1950-1953): 36,574
Vietnam Conflict (1964-1973): 58,220

Persian Gulf War (1990-1991): 383

From: fas.org, through 2010 Operation Enduring Freedom: (2001 – 2010): 973

Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003-2110): 4,365

Of the later two, it is imperative to note that wounded service members far exceed KIO.

The above is given as a remember to those who may not know the scope of the lives given, from the first shots fired to set the United States on its course as a Free and Separate Nation, though the major conflicts. The PDF referred to above, also lists minor conflicts and related deaths of which there were many – although cold statistics, one cannot help feel that this day set aside, once a year, to honor those who have fallen is imperative: Give thanks to those who have died so that as a whole this nation can continue to allow the rest of us to speak out minds, no matter what may be the subject, and move about the nation, without fear of reprisal, to chosen were to live, and what manner of work or career one might choose.

Detroit – Lights Out, Severe Budget Cuts – Flashback 2009 – Auto Industry Bailout

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Fri, 25 May 2012 11:14:00 +0000

Government Stifling Private Enterprise Cuts Tax Revenue, Increases Blight

Detroit Streetlights - coming to a city new you? - image WXYZ

Detroit is the latest shining example of why the belief that the Government can “pay to fix” anything is nothing more than a fairytale. The fact that without private enterprise hiring workers, who both pay taxes (assuming the corporate tax rate is low enough and that small businesses are not saddled with massive regulations), which allows governments to run in the first place – seems to be lost on those who favor the theory that the government can continue to fund projects – even those deemed untouchable.

Detroit dimmed the lights on neighborhoods where crime and blight are the worst. According to Bloomberg News (via San Francisco Chronicle): “Detroit, whose 139 square miles contain 60 percent fewer residents than in 1950, will try to nudge them into a smaller living space by eliminating nearly half its streetlights.”. The article notes that other U.S. cities have shut off the lights to save money, from California, to Illinois (Bloomberg) – a possible trend for those cities that have previously relied on both Federal and State aid in the form of “Stimulus” funds.

The Mayor of Detroit, Dave Bing, has proposed a budget that eliminates and privatizes some of the cities essential services. According to the Detroit Free Press: the human services department will be cut, and transportation and lighting will be handled by private firms.. There is a slight snag to finalizing this budget, the Detroit law department suggested that the State owes Detroit revenue sharing and unpaid water bills from the fairground (Detroit Free Press) However, can the State afford to reimburse Detroit, considering the State depends upon income from taxpayers, not unlike the city and the Federal Government?
The Federal Government under the Obama Administration has made several promises to Detroit in the form of “Bailouts” (Taxpayer funded programs – with an increasing loss private sector jobs, and fewer tax payers).

In 2009 The Detroit Free Press, suggested that Mayor Bing would fix the situation of blight in Detroit – where thousands of vacant properties exist. The premise was to demolish the property and encourage new businesses and housing – some were skeptical that it would work, however, “ the Free Press noted: “Even so, Bing's got the bucks to start: He's been promised more than $20 million from the Obama administration.”

However, according to Crain’s Michigan’s incentives for businesses (a glossary) includes public funding and loans – or Government bailouts, at the State level, with little thought to the consequences of spending tax payers dollars to entice (not necessary secure) private business, that, essentially failed.

The Federal governments intervention in the Auto Industry (General Motors, American-Government-Union owned) also did little to improve economic conditions in Detroit. From: Open Market.org.

The federal government poured billions of dollars into Chrysler, which then went bankrupt and now is in the process of merging with Fiat. But Chrysler may never revive, thanks to absurdly generous compensation for the company’s union employees. The Obama Administration has refused to cut union wages substantially, though it had no compunction about ripping off the pension funds and other lenders who loaned money to Chrysler to try to keep it afloat. Even union members seem surprised by how little they were asked to sacrifice. (The Administration is also seeking to rip off GM bondholders to benefit the union).
Moderate Democrat Mickey Kaus, who reluctantly voted for Obama, notes that the federal bailout may yet fail because of Obama’s failure to reduce excessive labor costs:
“Before the deal, Chrysler’s UAW workers made $28 an hour. After the deal, they’ll make $28 an hour. They gave up a scheduled increase in wages, plus a couple of scheduled bonuses. That explains why Chrysler’s Belvidere, Illinois workers told TV station WIFR that ‘the plan is not nearly as drastic as they expected.’…. If Chrysler workers were paid, say, not $28 an hour instead of $24–still not bad–the firm might actually have a ‘chance for long term success’ through charging lower prices. But that wasn’t a sacrifice Obama was ready to ask (even if Belvidere workers were apparently willing).”
In addition to leaving General Motors and Chrysler saddled with excessive costs and union ownership, Obama harmed them by radically ratcheting up federal CAFE fuel-economy standards, which affect them more than their foreign competitors. 50,000 jobs could be lost. And his global-warming regulations will destroy countless jobs and cut “household purchasing power,” reducing auto sales and Chrysler’s chances of survival.

That fact-based op-ed treats the heart of the problem – a problem that is not only Detroit’s, but affects all urban areas in the United States – the Administrations belief that the Government will be able to do anything, Unions are reasonable and acceptable (See Wisconsin’s Recall of Governor Scott Walker for daring to institute a law designed to allow public employees an opt out of union participation), and that bailouts, from public to private (states and cities to individual unemployment compensation) somehow works. The problem, with over half the tax base in the nation gone, and companies seeking tax relief and relief from increased business regulations (Health Care Mandates to Green Energy Mandates – and costs associated) heading out of the country, or putting a hold on hiring, there is little funding to the Federal, State and Local governments. It is, in effect, trickle down government economics run amok.

The solutions are neither new, nor surprising: encourage private enterprise by reducing corporate tax rates, and excessive regulations – as it stands now – the United States cannot compete with other nations. Any form of welfare and or unemployment compensation (which is taxed) should include a requirement to either attend work training (college or school), and or work for the State (See FDR’s building of parks and infrastructure though “workfare”) - Make Union participation at any level, in any field, optional. In this wise, those employees working at an Auto Plant making $28/hr in union wages, might work alongside those non-union members making $24/hr – however, when the union strikes, and or goes into negotiation, those who are non-union do not suffer the consequences. Neither does the business who will continue to operate, and be able to continue to both union and non-union – thus saving the business, the tax base for both the City, State and Federal governments and perhaps, just perhaps, getting enough income to turn the lights back on.

Caveat on Unions: Not all unions are “bad unions”, there are times and industries which are hazardous to one’s health and a Union is necessary in order to keep wages even, and the job safe (even with OSHA) – however, those unions where one owns a master’s degree, or work in “white collar” jobs (i.e. government employees such as clerical staff, etc.), are completely unnecessary.

For the government to involve itself in private industry, no matter which side of the aisle one stands, is the worst economic decision made for the nation – it has been done repeatedly throughout our history, and it has repeatedly failed.
To recap: Private businesses, equal more taxpayers, which provide the Local, State and Federal Governments with enough money to continue to run effectively. The Governments (all combined) to do have any other source of income than the taxpayer – simple.

Romney on Education: Reforms that Make Sense – Governor Romney’s Charter School Program in MA Shining Example

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Thu, 24 May 2012 11:32:00 +0000

Mitt Romney Announces A Chance for Every Child - image desert news

From:the Springfield Republican: “Mitt Romney: U.S. students getting 'third-world education,' proposes school choice program” speaks to Romney’s release of a prospectus on education reform from the top down – ensuring that students have equal access to higher quality education – specifically those from lower-income households. The plan shown below, highlights steps that necessary to insure the quality of education matches the price tag – and one can bet the teacher’s union’s have their panties in a bunch.

A Chance for Every Child

The plan to allow for increase Charter and online schools, pay more to higher performing teachers, and allow Federal funds that go to states to be used by the families of low income students as vouchers are a few points where trouble may arise.

Oddly enough (or perhaps not so) both candidate (President) Obama and candidate Mitt Romney are echoing some of the same themes for improving the public education system, ABC News offers: “Can Romney, Obama Learn to Share on Education?”, where both have used similar language in recent speeches.

That said Romney as Governor had increased Charter Schools in Massachusetts, and in 2005 offered legislation similar to the plan released yesterday which was met with the same “horror” from those who support the current union/federal government education relationship – the Massachusetts Legislature - (See Romney Plan Would Greatly Boost Charter Schools).

The Charter Schools do startling well in Massachusetts, with parents hoping to get their children into Charter versus public school systems. The reasoning: According to 2011 records of he Massachusetts Department of Education on Graduation Rates, the three top schools, with 100% graduation are Charter Schools: Edward M. Kennedy Academy for Health Careers (Horace Mann Charter School), Foxborough Regional Charter (District) - Foxborough Regional Charter Schooland the Ma Academy for Math and Science – of the Commonwealths larger population centers, the graduation rates are: Springfield Putnam Vocational: 60.5%, Boston Monument High School: 50%, Worcester North High School, 51%, New Bedford High, 58.9%, these fall in the middle, and represent a dismal public school graduation rate record. Of the 370 schools rated, 162 have a graduation rate of 90% or higher, while 208 fall below 90%, with 73 falling below 70%. Massachusetts is a participant in the Nationwide Race to the Top program, and places first in the group of states that participate (approximately 10 out of 50). Although the schools have seen a major improvement over previous years (some rising a full 20% in graduation rates), one wonders why these schools (with some exceptions such as schools set up for the those students who have servers challenges, either have faced being homeless, or are mentally challenged.) have not had greater success as they include some of the largest school districts in the Commonwealth.

Additionally, Romney’s plan to use language immersion in schools was seen as being problematic for students – he omitted the bi-lingual education classes (whereby a student was attending classes in both their native language as well as in English) – the charge: those students would not fare well against students who are native to the language. That said, private parochial schools use the same method of immersion, and those students acclimate quickly – often surpassing those students who are native English language students. In addition, the price tag for parochial (or private schools) is often far less than those of the public sector schools, with results that are much higher. For example: Chicopee, MA public schools spend an average of $12,672 per student, while a private parochial college prep school cost per year is approximately $10,000 (includes tuition uniforms, books, sundries). The difference, 100% graduation versus approximately 70% graduation from the public school. (Note: Chicopee Graduation Rates have vastly improved over the past three years going from high 50% to over 70%). There is, not only justification, but an imperative to reexamine the way funds are spent for public sector school systems, and allow parents to have more choice where it comes to their children’s public education. This is especially true nationwide – especially considering the few school systems in the nation that are “Racing to the Top” and the results thus far.

2012 Update: WAPO/ABC Poll: Voters Worse Off Today, Primaries: Obama Challenged by “Other”, Clinton’s Favorability All-Time High–Missed Opportunity?

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Wed, 23 May 2012 10:51:00 +0000

Too late? Mitt Romney - Hillary Clinton 2012 Contest - Possibly Less Boring than current projections and trends: Image: CNN

Today’s Headline from The Springfield Massachusetts Republican: “Poll: Voters feel worse off financially today than when President Obama took office”speaks to a recent Washington Post/USA Today Poll noting that, similar to the summer of 1980, the nations voters feel their dollar goes further than it did four years ago. The poll also indicates that a plurality of voters continue to believe it is the fault of former President George W. Bush – however, when one looks at the marginal’s: party affiliation is not on par with national averages, for example: the May 20th poll was comprised of Democrats: 32%, Republican’s: 22%, Independents: 38%, Other: 2%, No Opinion: 1%, (WAPO)while Pew research finds Swing voters (or independent, unenrolled, unaffiliated), over a period of 22 years, had remained actually dropped and as of April 2012 is at 23%,(Independent Voters.org) although there are indicators that those identifying themselves as unenrolleds has grown in parity with the major parties.

Rasmussen Reports that those identifying themselves as either Republican (35.1%) or Democrat (33.1%) (as of April of 2012), is on par with rolling three year survey – which would lead one to conclude the other third do not identify with either party. Given that a variety of surveys indicate there is a growing three way split in the electorate, the Washington Post/ABC Poll is somewhat biased. Polls, in general, are educated guesses based statistics and answers from random selections, which – to those who are not mathematicians are surprising accurate the majority of the time.

Who are the unenrolled? They identify by candidate or by party depending upon the issues facing the state and or nation at the time of any given election – and as of 2010, that includes “The Tea Party”, which would indicate there is definitely room for a third party in the United States.

This is very apparent in the recent Democrat Primaries where President Obama has been challenged by primary opponents, his vote tally is statistically lower than Mitt Romney’s on the Republican side of the primary schedule.(Yahoo News) For example: In Kentucky, “Uncommitted” received 42% of the vote, Obama 58%, in Arkansas, a primary challenger received 38.%% of the total vote against President Obama, and in West Virginia a prison inmate received 40% of the vote in the Democrat primary. (ABC News)

With Romney’s machine, now in cruise control, (the former Massachusetts Governor should officially clinch the nomination in the Texas primary at the end of May), both his organizational skills, as well as his fundraising and messaging appear to be right on target to a win in November, one that appeared almost impossible a year ago and throughout the primary process, which has, in retrospect, turned Romney into the most formidable candidate to challenge the President.

However, there may have been another challenger, one who, if they had run in the Democrat Primaries, would have bested not only Obama, a sitting President, but would have had every opportunity to best a Republican challenger – Hillary Clinton. Clinton’s favorability remains at an all time high according to Gallup polling, her current rating is consistent at 66% favorable. One can bet the house, had she taken her husband’s advice (according to the latest release by Edward Klein), she would be cruising towards clinching the Democrat nomination, and would have had the opportunity to make history as the first Women to be elected President.

During the 2008 election Democrat Primary, Hillary Clinton received the majority of the popular vote, but was denied the nomination through a process known as “Super-Delegates” at the DNC Convection. In this way, popular votes are cast aside, and Super-Delegates elect the Party nominee. It was Nancy Pelosi and her daughter, who cast the final votes to nominate Barack Obama as the party standard-bearer, in a stunning anti-feminist move by the left of center San Francisco Democrat. She insisted that Women would not suffer a setback if Clinton lost.(Bloomberg) Unfortunately, many believe that the country, women especially have suffered since then Speaker of the House Pelosi muscled the super-delegate vote for Barack Obama. This is evidenced by the overall polling of the President’s job approval and the continued high approval of one Hillary Clinton. One must ask: Is it too late for Hillary to pull an upset at the 2012 Democrat Convection in whichever state they finally settle on? Otherwise, at this point, the trends indicate Romney will enjoy a Reagan like election night victory.

Romney-Bain-Ampad -Union Strikes Begin with Romney Run Against Kennedy – Union Refuses to Negotiate – Plant Closes – Romney Left Bain: 1999

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Tue, 22 May 2012 11:04:00 +0000

The Results from a two decade period on Ampad, Romney and the International Paperworkers Union - result 13 articles - beginning with Romney's Run against Ted Kennedy

The attack ads in this particular general election beginning with the GOP Primary and now heating up for the General, as Obama begins to attack the Presumptive Nominee, Mitt Romney, are not exactly forthcoming with “details” that would make anyone hesitate as to the accuracy of the ads. Specifically since the timing of both the strike in Marion Indiana, and the 1994 Senate Campaign is somewhat suspect. According to the Springfield Republican

”Randy Johnson, a union worker at Ampad, spoke to reporters about Romney during the primary campaign. Johnson will be speaking to reporters again Monday on a conference call organized by the Obama campaign.
According to a release announcing the call, the Obama campaign will argue that “Romney’s business values put short term profit for himself and his investors ahead of long term growth for the companies he bought and sold – destroying some of the communities where he and his partners invested.””
(One Problem)
Romney’s role, however, is somewhat more complex than the Obama video shows. USA Today reported that Romney was on leave from Bain when it purchased SCM Office Supply – and was not involved in managing Ampad. Romney left Bain Capital in 1999, right before Ampad’s bankruptcy. (Ampad emerged from bankruptcy in 2003 under new ownership.)

Therefore, on the one hand, Bain Capital made an investment in a company – which Romney had no process in the decision making as he was on leave to run a Senate Campaign, the company was purchased, and suddenly – there’s a strike.
In fact, looking at articles from the Indianapolis Star, beginning in 1979 and ending in 1995, the keywords: Ampad, United Paperworkers, and finally Romney, in three sets of queries pull only 13 articles, the oldest: “Labor Problems in Marion Strike Massachusetts Race”, (Oct. 8, 1994) the balance of the articles report on the Union going out on strike, refusing to accept compromises, and finally, that employees were hired back (a point left out of most articles and the Obama video.)
From the Indianapolis Star, (article archives: Author: Peter Key, published in Business, Jan. 5th 1995)

” The announcement came less than a week after a last-ditch mediation attempt by Gov. Evan Bayh's office failed to resolve the dispute between Ampad and United Paperworkers International Union Local 154, which has been on strike at the plant since September. Randy Johnson, a vice president with Local 154, said he wasn't surprised by the company's decision.
"I really believe that they intended to have it their way or they were going to pull out," he said.
(Referring to)
Ampad Corp. said Wednesday it will close its Marion, Ind., factory Feb. 15, ending a labor dispute that has raged since the Dallas-based company bought the paper- products plant in July.”

Therefore, Once Bain, without Romney nearby, bought the plant in Marion, the Union went out on strike, and somehow it affected the Massachusetts race, in the end, the Union refused to compromise, even with Evan Bayh’s intervention and the end result was a closure of the plant due to the Union.

Romney, who had been contacted during the campaign against Kennedy by Mr. Johnson, Professional Union Organizer (not rank and file), and Romney faxed over a letter –the copy is below. In this letter Romney speaks to the steps he took to try and rectify the situation even though he was not part of Bain, and that it all boiled down to the Union’s choice to stalemate.

This particular story of Bain and Romney was first brought up in the 2012 GOP Primary – which was rugged to say the least, and although it’s already old news, the Obama campaign has decided to go ahead and use the material – one has to wonder what else they’ve got? Anything?

For additional sources see Indianapolis Star Archives 13 articles – three in particular headlines below::
Ampad strike mediation fails to resolve stalemate, Indianapolis Star, December 22, 1994

Companies battling strikes cut 572 Indiana jobs Strikebound Ampad plant will be closed next month Indianapolis Star - Indianapolis, Ind., January 5th, 1994

And
Ampad workers vote to reject company's final contract offer Indianapolis Star - Indianapolis, Ind. Dec. 22, 1994

Therefore, it is no wonder that the Obama Campaign is facing criticism from Democrats (Democratunderground.com)in attacking Romney on this issue. Of course, it did not work well for one Newt Gingrich, either – again – that documentary, although hard on the Romney Camp, it quickly became old news, and the media cast Newt Gingrich as the villain for unjustly attacking Mitt Romney.

One would think the Obama Campaign might have done a bit of checking round to see if there was any credibility to the Gingrich (PAC not Campaign) video, and b)what happened as a result, before rolling out Randy again.

Apparently not:

An image of the fax Mitt Romney personally sent to this Randy Johnson (click to enlarge) – offers the appearance of Mr. Johnson as political operative, while Romney does his best to explain. According to the Springfield Republican, Mr. Johnson will be holding a press conference today, apparently to rehash the problems he had with Romney in the Marion IN Ampad situation. Will the media ask Mr. Johnson, why he as a union boss, used the Marion plant, and subsequent strike in order to protect Ted Kennedy in a senate Race in Massachusetts.

Fax from Romney to Johnson: image Business Week (Click to Enlarge)

(Kennedy later used the Marion – Bain – Romney connection to effect in the 1994 Senate Campaign).

It could all be coincidence of course, however, unions will err on the side of politics, rather than what might be best for the rank and file.

NC Teacher Shouting Match with Students Over Obama’s Reelection – She Gets Facts Wrong – Dummying Down of America from the Top Down

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Mon, 21 May 2012 10:35:00 +0000

Consider the Scores (click to enlarge): Performance Scores from Salisbury High School - On Par with the Social Study Teachers Base of Knowledge

The story began with an article in the Salibury, NC, Post, students had taped their teacher on what can only be referred to as an uneducated rant regarding President Obama. According to the teacher, (who name is being withheld by the school), if one criticizes the President, then on is subject to being slammed in jail, however, it is perfectly ok, to criticize anyone running against the President or who does not agree with the President. In listening to the audio tape, one can tell that the students find this to be on the side of hilarious – and they continue to goad the “educator” until she explodes.

A partial transcript, provides by the

The nearly 10-minute video, shot by a student and uploaded to YouTube on Monday, had been viewed more than 1,000 times by Friday afternoon.
It begins with a classroom conversation about a recent news story detailing Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney allegedly bullying a classmate in prep school. It turns into a heated, sometimes confrontational debate.
One student asks, “Didn’t Obama bully someone though?”
The teacher responds: “Not to my knowledge.”
In response to the Romney story, conservatives have recently been pointing to a passage in Obama’s book, “Dreams from My Father,” in which the president writes that while in grade school he shoved a little girl, the only other black student in his grade, after other students called him her boyfriend.
When the student tells the teacher that Obama admitted to bullying a girl in school, the teacher goes on the defensive.
“Stop, no, because there is no comparison,” she says. Romney, she says, is “running for president. Obama is the president.”
When the student says they’re both “just men,” the teacher continues to argue that Romney, as a candidate for president, is not to be afforded the same respect as the president.
The teacher tells the class Obama is “due the respect that every other president is due.”
“Listen, let me tell you something, you will not disrespect the president of the United States in this classroom,” she says.
The student replies that he’ll say what he wants.
“Not about him you won’t,” the teacher says.
Later in the conversation, the teacher tells the class it’s criminal to slander a president.
“Do you realize that people were arrested for saying things bad about Bush?” she says of former President Bush. “Do you realize you are not supposed to slander the president?”
The student responds by saying being arrested for talking badly about the president would violate the right to free speech.
“You would have to say some pretty f’d up crap about him to be arrested,” he says. “They cannot take away your right to have your opinion. ... They can’t take that away unless you threaten the president.”

The video is worth the agonizing listen (quality of issue) due to the insight it gives one on the tone in the classroom and the trend of students to question the authority of the educator, who, when one listens, understands the students are better educated, and on top of current affairs, than the individual responsible for taking them further in their knowledge. It tells the listeners two things: the classroom appears to have a diverse student body – yet the only one arguing for the President appears to be the Teacher, and to the point of hysterics – the students on the other hand are standing up for Mitt Romney – which infuriates the teacher. The fact that politics are brought into a Social Studies class is, on face, not unusual, as the curriculum blends geography and history into one disciplines, a broad overview of how history has impacted society, therefore a debate would not be in question. However, the fact that the teacher was not debating, in a calm and rational manner, nor backing up her claims in anything approaching honestly rather than blind partisanship – sets the stage for 2012 and the youth vote. This is not an anomaly whereby the message in high schools remains basically the same – however, there’s this backlash very similar to those students in this tape – those who are turning eighteen are either not interested in voting at all, or have chosen to vote the economy, again, if they find the time.

What should infuriate the parents and the taxpayers is that the school system has on its staff an educator who is not educated. It is no wonder that students in states where there is a “race to the top” program found that only 50 percent were able to pass the reading exam in Florida, The Florida Board of Education took the low road and lowered the test standards – graduate at any cost. The losers are the students, and then the taxpayer.

The only thing that keeps these substandard teachers on the public dole – tenure – and unless and until those Union Contracts are written in such a way as to allow public schools to fire for incompetency – then this downward spiral will continue to take its toll – additionally the backlash is that for every one bad teacher, there are thousands of good teachers who end up being painted with the same large brush. Just like politics.

The audio via YouTube below is approximately 10 minutes, but gives on the intensity of the one-sided debate going on between the teacher and students, and the disdain that the students have as well as disgust for her blind partisanship – one can bet, if this teacher is not an anomaly in this system, then these students, their parents and those taxpayers who support the student, should get a tax rebate.

Although the school is not releasing the name of the teach, the School Website easily accessable to the public, does list the staff, there are two female Social Study Teachers at Salisbury High school- from there it's anyone's guess which of these two should be shown the door.

Barack Obama’s Birthplace as Kenya Surfaces Again – Most Probable - a Persona designed for Personal Gain – Get Hillary to a Brokered DNC Convention

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Fri, 18 May 2012 10:41:00 +0000

Actual Obama Birthplace or Fabrication for Personal Gain? - from Breitbart.com

The call them “birthers”, those who question whether or not President Barack Obama is eligible to even be President due to the possibility he was born outside of the United States –Kenya in fact.(Breitbart.com) According to the U.S. Constitution if that were the case, the President would not be eligible to be – President. That scenario is most unlikely – regardless of the fact that as a nation, we dig deep into our celebrities backgrounds – whether they be a bit player in a hot TV sitcom or a politician, anyone in the spotlight is subject to curiosity by “fans” or by those who are not fans – digging for dirt to find something wrong with that celebrity.

There is however, a trend in academia that has surfaced in the past few years – the most notable being example being one Ward Churchill, who claimed to be of American Indian ancestry to gain employment and tenure at the University of Colorado(New York Sun) and the most recent being U.S. Senate candidate in MA, one Elizabeth Warren, former Obama appointee, whose claim of American Indian Ancestry to gain entrance to and employment within the university system (See: Real Clear Politics: Cherokee Genealogist to Elizabeth Warren – Tell the Truth
It’s called beating the systems, if one claims they are from a certain background, they are able to obtain: student loans, jobs in academia and elsewhere – and yes, acceptance from the perspective of those who feel that today, that those who have certain backgrounds, deserve to have more benefits, better chances than others – who perhaps don’t appear to be as ethnic, or interesting. It is what it is – fraud.

While the race heats up for the 2012 Presidential contest, Mitt Romney has taken heat for pranks he played as a teenager in prep school, he’s being vetted to the extreme, but had Romney the character of any of the aforementioned, he may have found a Mexican relative, who was one sixty-fourth American Indian, and suddenly, he’d be a lot more interesting, although now, that story would be blasted about the headlines – Fraud! It’s the way in which the press in Massachusetts is handling the Warren fraud, all but ignoring the fact that her claims were made to gain “acceptance” (and a job).

Therefore, one can bet the house, that either wanting to sell a book, or say, get student loans, or for that matter, acceptance into prestigious universities to study law, being African-American and Kenyan, and Hawaiian (is there a native Hawaiian we may find in that background?), the young Barack Obama would have a narrative that would make him “gold” to publishers and Universities alike. That is, of course, until he decided to run for the highest office in the United States, and had to divest himself of the identity, most likely created by a vivid imagination, some truth with a dash of embellishment (i.e.: I was in Kenya, with my father, when I was five, so why not back up the clock and get into Harvard?!!), and a great deal of chutzpah.

The latest discovery (a pamphlet printed by Barack Obama’s literary agent, in order to sell books, giving a short bio of Barack as born in Kenya – see Breitbart link first paragraph), is again, a marketing piece, and the biography is most probably the same. One can bet that this was overlooked by the so-called “mainstream media” simply because they never looked past his being “African-American”, and of course, took him at his word. It would not have entered their minds, all trained in academia, to think that something like this would be a red herring, perhaps because so many had used similar methods to get grants, and jobs! In other words – no big deal, nothing to see here, move along, its commonplace to beef up one’s bio to get ahead.

Unless it’s fraud – and it goes to character – so many of our nation’s youth, no matter the ethnicity or race, have parents that work two jobs, they work one or two jobs, in order to attend college, and have for decades – if one was not born with a silver spoon in one’s mouth, and one wants to go to college, one might do anything, take fewer courses per semester, graduate later, lower costs, change schools, compete in Miss American pageants – of course, these are not ivy league schools, but, how important is that moniker in today’s society? Obviously, with the job market the way it is, a degree from Harvard is about as worthless as a degree from any third tier college.

Going back to character for a moment, if one finds the embellishment of a background to be an acceptable way to get ahead, and it involves grants, student loans, jobs that are not in private held colleges (see Ward Churchill), then those individuals show a character that is somewhat lacking ethics, especially at an age of reason where one should know better – or at least man, or in Warren’s case, man up and tell the nation or the state or the University President and Board: I did not think I would be accepted without being more “exotic”, then that may be excusable. Age is also a factor, if someone does something fraudulent in their teens and twenties, and is now older and perhaps wiser, then some may feel it goes to character. In fact, it does, but the character of that person at that time, perhaps not the character of that person forty or fifty years later. It is the fact that pushing something such as fraud/embellishment of a bio for personal gain/under the proverbial rug, later in life, not simply forgetting a prank that occurred at the age of sixteen, actually goes to recent character. One might suggest therefore, that publishers, colleges and universities, do more thorough background checks on potentially “interesting” students or applicants for employment, and save both the workforce, the state and in this case, the Office of the Presidency, a great deal of negative press, and frankly embarrassment.

Finally, the aspect of embellishment is purely hypothesis, however, what else would it be? Either the President of the United States lied about being born in Hawaii, or lied about being born in Kenya, for all the public knows, he may have been born in Kansas – someplace boring, not quite as exciting, and not as lucrative a background. In any event, those who have for years been calling for his removal, have not taken into consideration the Constitution and the ramifications of removing a sitting President – that being the line of succession. One would now have to be prepared to have V.P. Biden as leader of the free world, or should he not be able to serve, the weepiest Speaker of the House, John Boehner. One might suggest: let it ride – and get Hillary Clinton to a brokered Democrat Convention, if one has to drag her there, and by super-delegate, nominate her. The fact is, she won the last round, but was literally robbed by Super-Delegates, based on Barack Obama’s very interesting background – they owe Hillary Clinton and they owe the Democrat Party – my father’s party – and they owe the nation – at least that, if not more.

The Bumper Stickers, the Pins, the Tee-Shirts are ready to go - image irregulartimes.com

2012 Election: Gallup Economy #1 Issue, Historical Polling Trends - Not Indicative of a Second Obama Administration: Wisconsin: Obama Romney Tied

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Thu, 17 May 2012 10:08:00 +0000

Obama Vs. Romney, Tied in Wisconsin - Democrat Stronghold - image forward.com

Gallup Polling’s, “National Mood” poll suggests that the general election will be based on the economy as the pollsters historical patters indicate that the percentage of mentions of the economy as the number one issue are higher than any general election since May of 1980. In the pollsters report, the comparison of the economy as the top concern among voters began with Lyndon Johnson in 1964 – in May of each general election where the economy was weighed in an incumbents reelection prospects: 1964, Johnson: 0%, 1972: Nixon, 17%, 1976: Ford, 0%, 1980: Carter, 73%, 1984: Reagan, 55%, 1992: Bush, 56%, 1996: Clinton, 44%, 2004: Bush, 39% and May 2012: Obama, 66%. The trend is indicative of an uphill battle for President Obama, with, as Gallup indicates, 6 months to go before the November elections.

Perhaps the best campaign slogan to date, based on economic indicators was Bill Clinton’s in his run against Gerald Ford: “It’s the Economy, Stupid” – which is in use world-wide today, from from Canada’s Ottawa Citizen in regards to the economic downturn being “good” for the current Prime Minister, Stephen Harper, to the Daily Beast’s, “It’s Still the Economy Stupid”, article outlining Bill Clinton’s 2011, 14 point plan to put America “back to work”.

The Gallup Poll also includes May Job approval ratings, the highest incumbents were Johnson in 1964 (75%), and Richard Nixon in 1972 (62%), with the lowest, George H Bush (40%), and Carter (43%) and Gerald Ford, (43%) – tied. 2 points separate the May job approval ratings of George W. Bush (49%) in 2004, and Barack Obama (47%) in 2012. This data, included with the economic indicators give the pollster the sense that currently, the President’s prospects of reelection are “uncertain”.

The latest state poll out of Wisconsin, from Marquette Law School shows a dead heat between Barack Obama and Mitt Romney both at 46% In this most recent poll it was noted that Republican’s are more enthusiastic about voting (91%), compared to Democrats and Independents (83%). In addition, the pollster has found that the Presidents lead of 9% in April has evaporated, his likability has also fallen, while Romney’s has risen slightly – bringing both the incumbent and challenger to the “toss-up” category. The number one issue Democrats: Jobs and the Economy.

Although is it still early in political terms, as far as any election is concerned, the consistency with Gallup polling and Obama’s reelection prospects has remained largely unchanged for the past two years. Should this polling remain the same, going into September and October, it is highly probable that the President would not be re-elected. In addition, branding should be considered as a factor – in 2008, the Republican “brand” had taken a toll, in general, both George W. Bush combined with Congressional rankings made it nearly impossible for a GOP candidate to succeed. Given the fact that John McCain was not the most formidable candidate, it was the Democrat’s election year. In May of that year, it was Hillary Clinton who topped the charts, only losing to Obama at the Democrat Convention – not by popular vote, but by “super-delegate vote” or, in other words, a body of both Clinton’s and Obama’s peers. Super-delegates are generally made up of high profile political party members, as well as current members of the House and Senate. Clinton campaigned heavily on experience, while Obama campaigned on bringing the nation together, politically and more specifically the war in Iraq – at that time (May of 2008) the economy was not a central issue.

It should be noted, that in the Gallup polling data, one understands that factoring the economy alone as the primary focus of the public, those President’s who followed an incumbent who’s handling of the economy was seen as sub-standard by the public, only won re-election by taking steps to improve the economy, in second terms (Reagan, Clinton and George W. Bush) the economy was not a factor.

George W. Bush Weighs in on 2012 – As Expected Endorses Romney – AP Bush Polarizing? Compared to Whom? Opinion and Analysis

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Wed, 16 May 2012 10:58:00 +0000

Former Presidents and Popularity - Pictured: Bill Clinton and George W. Bush - image Op-ed News

The Headline: AP Via ”The Chippewa Herald: “Role unlikely for George W. Bush in Romney bid”, speaks to the “endorsement of Mitt Romney by former President George W. Bush, and the fact that Bush might still be problematic for Republicans:

"Romney's campaign doesn't foresee the 43rd president playing a substantive role in the race. Aides are carefully weighing how much the former president should be involved in the GOP convention _ and for good reason. The Bush fatigue that was a drag on GOP nominee John McCain four years ago, and on the country, still lingers, including among Republicans."

"While Bush's standing has improved since he left office in January 2009, he remains a polarizing political figure."

One must note that Republicans (the Body Party Politics) are generally careful and pragmatic regarding appearances, specifically erring on the side of caution, being at times too timid and living in what amounts to a glass bowl. In addition, the role of former Presidents should not weigh a great deal in the campaigns of those who would be President. It is not the comparative that is at issue, it is the ability for the Romney Campaign to define Mitt Romney as an individual. One does not see Obama on stage with any former Democrat Presidents – unless one counts Jimmy Carter. It is highly doubtful the most popular Democrat former President Bill Clinton will be seen embracing Obama on the stump – he may support the Party, but it is not with enthusiasm.

Bush on the other hand has seen a bit of notoriety during the Obama Administration. First, the “Miss Me Yet” Billboards, then the “Miss Me Yet” T-Shirts, that continue to be “best Sellers” despite the fact that Obama is rounding the corner of the last year of his administration. They continue to sell on outlets such as Amazon, Café Press, and any one of thousands of internet based t-shirt outlets – In the case of Martha’s Vineyard (a favorite Obama vacation destination) Miss Me Yet t-shirts, outsell “I vacationed with Obama” on the resort island.

That does not speak to Romney, but it does speak to the Obama Presidency – especially in popular culture.

The idea that G.W. Bush would be the divisive President is perhaps ancient history – the most divisive President award will, in all likelihood, go to the current President – and although the economy may be his undoing, it is also quite possible that, it would be his ability to divide and divide and divide. It can only be someone else’s fault (Bush, the Congress, the Pollster (depending on the poll), for so long before the every voter except the base starts to notice one thing. The Man has yet to own the office, preferring the campaign trail to managing the nation.

Comparatively one has the impression that Mitt Romney has a plan to fix the economy, but that he would “own” the position of Chief Executive, and having played the role successfully in the private sector, may make hiring choices that are based less on cronyism and more on ability to do the job. That remains to be seen, as he has entered the body politic, but it is more likely than not, given his experience.

Therein lays the key word - divisive - as polls continue to show Romney besting the President, with Women, (CBS/NYTimes), and Independents (CBS/NYTimes) by varying margins of 3 to 7 points (the later Rasmussen).

Therefore, if Bush, who enjoys his low profile, endorses Romney (which one would expect), then the need for the Press to paint Bush as divisive, and suggest that the Obama administration might use that tactic in the campaign (which they will any wise), it would serve to strengthen the image that Obama is continuing give credit to a previous administration, long past the time where one would find these accusations credible.

There is public perception, the more that one hears Romney is in the lead nationally, or in key states, on the evening news, then when gas prices fall, or any improvement occurs, the danger for the Obama campaign is that Romney is the reason – logic? – If the nation is improving, it is because business believes that Romney is going to win – giving Romney an early boost or leg-up if one will. At this point, there appears little that Obama can do to salvage a win in 2012, given the consonant poll data from Gallup and the trend in polls for the general election.

Carter Obama, the comparisons continue - image: libertad.org

Of note: Edward Klein’s “The Amateur” is now available – and suggested reading. Having read “The Truth About Hillary, against the warnings of the likes of Bill O’Reilly on the right, and choose anyone on the “left” that has a public voice, the book allowed those that tended to dehumanize Hillary Clinton, with a vengeance, actually like her – more to the point, look at her record and then support her candidacy in 2008.

Rene Orta, Mexican Journalist - Murdered – Latest Journalist to be Killed in Mexico – Press in Mexico Death Sentence for Reporting on?

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Tue, 15 May 2012 10:54:00 +0000

The body of Rene Orta discovered in trunk of his car - image and article from Siempre.com.mx

From Presna Latina: A Mexican journalist, Rene Orta, was found in the trunk of a car, cause of death not yet determined – he is the latest victim in a string of atrocities that appear to be a daily occurrence in this nation. . It is uncertain if the fact that the Orta was working for the Presidential campaign of the very popular, Enrique Peña Nieto, was a factor. (Presna Latina)

There was a case earlier in May, 2012 :

“The bodies of two Mexican news photographers who specialized in the crime beat were found along with the bodies of a former photojournalist and a fourth individual in a canal in the city of Boca del Río, in Veracruz state, according to news reports.
The dismembered bodies of photographers Gabriel Huge Córdova and Guillermo Luna Varela were found along with the body of Esteban Rodríguez, a former Veracruz news photographer, and Irasema Becerra, who was said to have been Luna's companion, according to news reports. News accounts said Huge and Luna had disappeared on Wednesday.”

(CPI.org)

The statistics are troubling, to say the least, journalism in Mexico is a high-risk profession, according to Presna Latina, The National Commission on Human Rights has filed 580 complaints since 2005. In that period, of known incidents: there were 79 journalists, 14 who had disappeared and an additional 26 assaults on media intuitions in the nation of Mexico. (Prena Latina)

Understanding that the drug cartels are extremely dangerous, does not belie the fact that even organized crime would welcome “good press” from time to time, and or the opportunity to allow the media to report in order to show their hold over the nation that separates the United States from Latin American – this appears not to be the case. There are instances where the brutality of the murders (decapitation, dismemberment) are not the norm of Mexican Culture, which begs the question, what have these dead and or missing journalist discovered that puts them at such a high risk? It could very well be that the war between the “king pins” of drugs that run the cartels and the nation, have become so violent that it is more than a high risk, rather suicidal. Perhaps it is hoped that if journalists do not report, then they will be able to precede business as usual – however, there is little to suggest that the nation in that time had a high success rate in corralling the king pins, and the violence against innocents, gang members, and members of the press, continues unabated. So what would be the purpose? Unless of course there may be a larger, underlying story unfolding in Mexico, one which would mean an immediate death sentence for anyone who might be looking for the scoop of the century. What that might be, is anyone’s guess.

Then again, there is the distinct possibility that the alleged drug cartels are only a cover story for terrorists, who are more familiar with the culture of beheading: The blog: Right Side News, chronicles the increase of Jihadist in the nation to our south – entitled Mexican Jihad, they cite sources such as the New York Daily News: “Close to home: Hezbollah terrorists are plotting right on the U.S. border” (2010), , The German News outlet, Der Spiegel, from 2005 offer the report “Praying to Allah in Mexico, Islam Is Gaining a Foothold in Chiapasl”.

Whatever the case may be, at this point, it is obvious that the nation of Mexico is out of control, and that it lays directly on an open border with the United States, one which may be the only hope for those escaping either the drug wars or the more troubling concept of having those who have vowed to destroy the west, within walking distance. Either way, as administration after U.S. administration has closed its eyes to the distinct possibility that an open border policy may not be such a great idea, and promises made by politicians are not kept, for fear that they may lose a constituency who apparently would destroy any political capital if someone had the gall to secure the U.S. border. Time for someone, on either side of the border, to step up and protect not only the citizens on the U.S. border, but the citizens behind what can only be referred to now as the Mexican Front lines. This last, an hypothesis based on minimal reporting, (outside of the Mexican state where any Reporting might land one a death sentence), cultural abnormalities, and the inclination for actual “crime” bosses to be more flamboyant, cultivating loyalty through both intimidation as well as charity. This is puzzling, and it appears that as more journalists are silenced, the true story of how, in less than a decade, the nation to our south has become the subject of world headlines touting multiple murders on a weekly or often more frequent, basis.

Mexican Drug War – 49 Bodies Found at U.S. Border Town – Beheadings and The Mexican Culture - A Mystery.

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Mon, 14 May 2012 10:59:00 +0000

The most recent Mexican Beheadings & Mutilations: image from indiatv.com

The Violent Drug Gang War, that has seen an increasing body count, has been a situation in Mexico for years. In 2011 the incidents of beheading and mutilation began to appear, with victims ranging from journalist to alleged “rival drug cartel” members, yet there was little to no reporting on the growing number of incidents. It has, in some reports, spilled over the U.S. border(MSNBC) The latest is a mass murder of 48 individuals, found in a pool of blood on the road to one of the larger border cities being reported widely in U.S. newspapers:

Forty-nine bodies with their heads, hands and feet hacked off were found Sunday dumped on a northern Mexico highway leading to the Texas border in what appeared to be the latest massacre in an escalating war between Mexico's two dominant drug cartels. (San Francisco Chronicle)

How does beheading figure into Mexican Culture? It appears in only ancient instances – the main example being the Aztecs “ball games”, where the loser was summarily beheaded. Other than that there is little mention of the act of beheading as common in the Mexican Culture – rather, ripping out of the heart, was popular in the Mayan Culture, but of which have little bearing, other than commercial tourism on today’s Mexico.

Surprisingly there are few other modern cultures which actively use decapitation in practice, either terror and/or as a style of execution. One mostly finds instances in the Middle East, for example Saudi Arabia uses beheading as a means of execution(CBS News). An interesting report of modern-day beheading and culture by by Ronald Jones, a Carlisle Paper by the U.S. Army War College, is both historically accurate and well written (U here in PDF). In the report, the topics cover ancient civilizations and the methodology of execution by beheading, however, it then covers modern day executions as well as the use of the methodology in terror organizations, specifically in the Middle East. Also of note: the use of hanging multiple bodies from bridges do not appear outside of current history, except for two incidents, the Iraq war, and theorist use of the method, and the Mexican “drug war”. Although mass hangings did take place on what is now U.S. soil, it was the British Government whose “war on pirates” resulted in the hangings in pre-revolutionary Newport RI.

Which begs the question: Where did the “drug cartels” discover the art of beheading? Was it through their ancient cultures – if so, there would be more hearts ripped out of bodies than heads lying on the streets. One might speculate with the open border between the U.S. and Mexico, funds needed by terrorist organizations in the Middle East and the easy access to Mexico from those nations in the Middle East and Africa that use beheadings in terrorism , coupled with the huge amount of capital that can be gained from running drugs for cash and weapons (see Fast and Furious), if there isn’t another influence at work.

Romney’s High School Pranks Troubling to Media – Operation: Defect from the Obvious Issues, Attack Fairly Squeaky Clean Romney for 1960’s Behavior

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Fri, 11 May 2012 11:20:00 +0000

Compare: Barack Obama High School Photo's - image Magnificent Bastard do com

To: a decade before

Mitt Romney High School - from the website: classwareexists.com

Analysis

The Washington Post ran with a story yesterday regarding presumptive GOP nominee, Mitt Romney, the story headline: “Mitt Romney’s prep school classmates recall pranks, but also troubling incidents” insinuates there must be something critically wrong with Romney, after all, over forty years ago, he played pranks and was “mean” to his classmates. The Post goes further and hauls out some of Mitt Romney’s high school classmates, all of whom are Democrats and one of which happened to work for the Obama campaign in 2008. The gist: Romney and a group of classmates got together and cut another classmates hair!

Let’s put this into context. In the 1960’s, which one assumes may have been the time period, there was a shift in men’s (or boys more to the point, at 16 or 17) style – some held onto the more conservative short hair, while others, let their hair grow to new lengths. It was a sign of the times, rebellion, where those whose hair was a tad too long were booted from schools, and on the female side, should one not wear a bra, or if one’s skirt was too long, or one had sandals on one’s feet, one faced suspension. No kidding, public schools had dress codes too – and pranks were played, some of them would be considered criminal offenses today, however, that was then. A time when stealing a hubcap off a neighbor’s car would land one in “juvenile dentition” – Juvenile dentition was a separate facility, a jail if one will, where students, whose crimes were, by today’s standards, much ado about nothing, placed on in an educational setting with bars – for a time determined by the courts. Needless to say, the graduation rate was high, students were especially careful not to cross lines, and those that did, suffered the consequences of suspension, or worse. Those that were sent to Juvenile Hall or a young girl who was “in the family way”, were shunned by fellow students as somehow not proper.

So, Romney was a joker, probably the class clown, and most likely applauded by fellow students, who may have been sitting on the sidelines – yet 40 some odd years later, those same students are now full of remorse and politically correct. ABC News, for instance, in interviewing one of the former classmates, focuses on the “bullying aspect”, and also the fact that the young man with “long hair” may have been “gay”/ Of course, that goes towards the times – when in the 1960’s, “gay” meant happy, and well, it was a lifestyle that was not “talked about” by anyone, including those who were still in the “closet”. The long-hair again, was seen as an anomaly, born out of the rebellion of “doing one’s own thing” in that era. Family and friends of those who opted to grow their hair were referred to as “girls” – especially by siblings and parents who were beside themselves with what was considered behavior out of the “norm”.

Romney immediately apologized for something that he did as a youth. That appeases no-one, as the press has finally found something with which to malign Mitt Romney! Even though it appears that some of those that interviewed for the story were not actually witness to the incident. According to the dailycaller.com, there are “cracks in the Washington Post Story on Romney’s Pranks”. No-one is surprised, and frankly those in the demo (not the elite, touchy-feely, media), or baby-boomers, are not particularly “bothered” by a prank of that nature, having endured and or instigated pranks that make Romney’s look “amateurish” by comparison.

Example of cultural change: Pranks such as stuffing a black garden snake (harmless) into a victims mouth (mostly a girl that may have been one of those “rebellious” types), mostly to see that person a) fear the snake and b) gag on the snake and scream bloody murder – horrible! Today, those 13 to 18 year old boys would be in court, possibly incarcerated, for what was at the time, a mind-numbing stupid prank. Retaliation, it should be noted, also occurred – it was the natural order of things, being picked on- or picking on someone. Yes, it was not “nice” and yes, it probably left scars on those whose psyche was so fragile that they could not withstand being an “outsider” or even the random “victim” might still suffer from a fear of snakes. However, times have changed: Today, if one hugs one’s classmate, one might be considered a sexual predator – expelled, if one calls someone a name, one may be a “bully” expelled. The pendulum has swung in extremes, and the Post has decided, as it could not come up with anything else that Romney had done in 60 years, that perhaps painting him as a disturbing bully, with testimony by individuals who were not even there (that’s the cracks in the Washington Post Story – hearsay) might somehow help the President’s reelection efforts.

Of course, that’s when reading the Presidents’ book becomes a problem – Barack Obama is a decade younger, therefore, the “revolution” occurred after he was in High School, were his norm was smoking dope and skipping school – one can also hazard to guess as that time, the dropout rate among classmates in Hawaii and on the mainland was starting to increase. In 1960, the dropout rate was at 27% (including inner city, as well as rural and farm communities), and in 2008, the last year complete statistics were compiled, the drop-out rate was 30.1% - There appears to be a trend here, where, the counter-culture of the 1960’s, those long-haired, bra-eschewing, sandal clad rebels, who were picked on while in secondary schools, have turned the present day education experience into an anything goes, weather it is distracting other students, or walking out of class – and there are simply – no repercussions. Unless of course, a student tries to hug someone – then the alarms go off.

In reality, it does not matter if as a 16 or 18 year old Romney played a few pranks, or for that matter, if a 16 to 18 year old Barack Obama smoked a few blunts, or skipped some classes – it matters not, what matters is their behavior in their 20’s, 30’s, 40’s, 50’s and yes, 60’s – it matter’s what political philosophy the candidate may have, it matters how that candidate voted, what the successes or failures that candidate has experienced, and how well prepared that candidate is to get the United States out of a big mess, one that has to do with job growth and the health of our economy. That’s where the comparisons should be made, but somehow, the Post and similar outlets are more concerned with Barack Obama coming out of the closet in “personal support for gay marriage”, while having no intention to repeal the “Defense of Marriage Act” In other words, although he’s personally (suddenly on a par with Mitt Romney for “flip-flopping”) changed his mind about “Gay Marriage” so that he he’s regained some “cool” with the Post Editorial Crew, and members of MSNBC’s late-night slate, he plans on doing – nothing.

Now there’s a story – President Supports Gay Marriage personally, but…..
For all my gay friends and acquaintances, that means – nothing. Especially those living in states outside of the five that offer marriage to GBLT community – a civil union bill would be nice, something that would protect these couples inheritance rights, or the right to visit a partner in a hospital – making everything equal (and this is my opinion) would require every couple to enter into a civil union, and those of religious bent, to have a traditional Church, Synagogue or Mosque, or what-have –you – wedding, complete with a certificate from the Church, etc. – that would be too simple, satisfy everyone’s needs, and give everyone the same rights – yet it is never an option – because, Gay Marriage would no longer be a political football.

For Democrats who must campaign on that issue, in all but five states, it means a great deal.

It’s also something one will see swept under the rug, as fast as furious (oops) as any major White House Scandal. In all it will be interesting to see if any of the incumbent Democrats fighting for their life in the coming months, call on the President to help with their campaigns. One might hazard to guess as this point; he may receive the 2008 George Bush Treatment.

Why? Just like the abortion issue, the Gay Marriage Issue will never be solved, because they make political points, a political football if one will – social issues, are ripe for the pickings of political parties, to point out the faults of the opposing team – and these issues? American’s are not entirely divided on these issues – which is always a danger when one puts themselves out in favor or not in favor, of one or the other.

So, Obama’s supporters in the Press deflect, surely the geeky Romney must have something in his past, something, anything that would make him less appealing than the President? The President who now owns an economy that is in dire straits, has more government intervention in individuals’ lives than at any time in history, and now is moving to the social issues, that will end up being more of an albatross than a help. The President’s state by state approval rating as it stands (Gallup) for 2010 and 2011 is little changed, he has just above a 50% approval in ten states, and that is not a statistic that is helped by the economy, sudden revelations of a personal nature, and/or calling out 40 year old “hi-jinks” committed by one Mitt Romney.

The Civil-Drug War in Mexico Escalates: 18 Decapitated in 2nd Largest City Ahead of July 1st Presidential Election - The Logic of Border Control

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Thu, 10 May 2012 10:54:00 +0000

The Drug War Continues - Decapitations preferred method of execution - image from veracityvoice: The Unreported War In Mexico - January 2011

The body count in the Mexican Drug Cartel/Civil wars has been building in the past weeks, with the latest “revenge” casualties being 18 bodies found decapitated in Mexico’s second largest city – Guadalajara . The act of decapitation has become increasingly common in the nation, with what had been a “border war” escalating and moving into areas previously thought safe for Mexico’s citizens and tourists alike. That is no longer the case – the blog www.borderlandbeat.com has compiled an excellent history of the conflict, as well as updated news on the nation’s politics and continued civil war. (A must read.)

The violence has escalated during the Presidential election year - Mexico will vote for a new President in July, 2012. The leading candidate is Pena Nieto, of the Revolutionary Party (PRI), who together with his soap opera star wife, make up the most “charming” and appealing team, leading by 20 points in recent polls. (San Francisco Chronicle). However, it appears to be an election based on popularity rather than issues, at the moment. Pena Neito's Revolutionary Party had held power in Mexico for decades, and most recently lost the Presidency to Vicente Fox and Calderon, both of whom were able to control the cartels. However, the Modern Socialist PRI Party appears poised to retake the nation – with the nation’s most popular couple.

How all that would play into the civil war that is taking place remains to be seen – although, in for decades the drug trade existed between Mexico and the U.S. borders, it was not to the extent that it is today. Either atrocities were hushed by the ruling party, or they simply did not occur – the later being more likely. Therefore, logic dictates that should the party regain total power, and the leading contender be more stuff than fluff, one might see an actual decline in the violence, against its citizens, elected officials, journalists, and police.

In effect, the nation is in chaos, and it is spilling over the border into the U.S. – no matter how much money U.S. taxpayers throw at Mexico in a ridiculous “War on Drugs”. Ridiculous only in the sense that the other side appears to be winning, and there is no structure in place to prevent those cartel members or drug runners from easy access to the United States. It will be up to the President of the United States, as well as the newly elected Mexican President in July, to come to some sort of agreement as to the necessity of Mexico to deal with its own problems, and the necessity of the U.S. to man the border, and shut it down. Perhaps the U.S. should take lessons from Mexico, where they have effectively shut down their southern border with Guatemala – using tactics on those attempting to cross over through Mexico to the U.S. that would be considered extortion.

Additionally, Mexico does have a ruling class, or elite class that enjoys a lifestyle equal to those considered Elitists American’s, while there is no middle class to speak of, and a plethora of peasants whose past options included either working in the U.S. or working with and for the drug cartels. However, that particular party that ruled, at least had the appearance of keeping the violence under control – can the United States, however, rely on this happening again? Or is it, more to the point, the duty and right of the U.S. to actually do something about the border (talk is cheap and has been for decades), cutting off access to anyone who cannot legally enter the country? The scenario is doubtful, regardless of the party in power here in the U.S., as either no one has the chutzpah or the cajones to get the job done. Fear of alienating a voting bloc and big business trumps the health, wealth and safety of the very people they vow to protect – the American Citizen. One realistic solution would be to cut off the drug supply routes – cut off the cartels, the cash and let Mexico gain its independence from the United States of America. Again, political pandering will take that option off the table and as 25 lives lost in a week, turn into hundreds and thousands, on either side of the border will those in power still support the "do nothing" policy that continues to exist?

Mass Political Roundup: Warren’s Cherokee Nation continues to Haunt, Kerry Bemoans Loss of Luger, Mass. 6th Up for Grabs, Neal’s(D-MA1) Tax Rules

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Wed, 09 May 2012 10:52:00 +0000

Lizzie Warren with Barack Obama - worked in Administration - image mediatedotcom

Elizabeth Warren, College Professor, Obama Team Member and Candidate against one Senator Scott Brown (R-MA), has, from any reasonable point of view, no way out of the ever growing saga, of her deceptive application as a student and Harvard Professor noting she is a minority due to her American-Indian Heritage. The latest ditty from Red State, speaks to the fact that her ancestor was indeed close to the Cherokee nation, however, on the “side holding the gun”. The more we learn about Elizabeth Warren, the more ridiculous a candidate she becomes – the question to the DNC – “What were you thinking?” It is apparent that one can run for office, be a friend to the President, and well, fudge one’s resume a bit – apparently the lack of vetting from that side of the aisle remains non-existent.

In an upset that was broadcast last night, the Indiana Primary saw 80 year old moderate to the left of center Republican Senator, Richard Lugar’s loss to a conservative, Tea Party, Club for Growth and RSC backed Richard Murdock – or - term limits imposed by the ballot box. This has Massachusetts Senior Senator John Kerry in a state of Depression - as he “laments Republican Richard Lugar’s Departure-from the Senate” (Boston Globe) – To those citizens of Indiana – obviously you made the correct choice – therein lays the proof.

There may be trouble in “River City” for Massachusetts Congressional Candidate John Tierney in the 6th District – this according to political pundit, Stuart Rothenberg. The Massachusetts House Seats now number nine, of nine, one might consider one completely safe – baring a strong and charismatic, well connected candidate for the 1st District, now owned by Democrat Richard Neal. Neal, now in the Massachuestts 1st District, is surrounded by the maximum progressive population in the state, and although there are pockets of conservatives living within the confines of the 1st, there are more “Cher” minded individuals – that is not to say he is not without competition, from inside his party. According to the Springfield RepublicanNeal faces two contenders on the Democrat Side, and no Republican has emerged as of March 14th.

There are, however, Republican candidates running in other, less gerrymandered districts, one with a particular disadvantage is a Kennedy running in the newly drawn 4th, drawn into such Conservative enclaves that Barney Frank got up and retired. That district may also be up for grabs, as anyone who lives inside Massachusetts understands the Kennedy brand is not what it once was – See Scott Brown (R-MA) enough said.

Finally, from Bloomberg News, U.S. Citizens living outside the borders, and considered ex-patriots (or ex-pats), are finding banking overseas to be non-existent. This due to new regulations put in place by Massachusetts’ Tax Man, Richard Neal (D-MA1), who crafted the Foreign Compliance Act, which essentially bars American’s from banking with overseas firms, and if they do, they pay a 30% tax.

Although one would think that this was aimed strictly at millionaires, and billionaires, who have escaped the U.S. for tax purposes, (or businesses ventures), it also affects other expats who maybe overseas working for contractors, limiting their choice of banking options. Additionally, according to Bloomberg, some of those “Millionaires” have opted to give up their U.S. Citizenship, in order to “evade” paying the 30% rate on return of investment – meaning, the U.S. government will receive zero dollars. The “Tax the Rich” plan looks great on Progressive paper, and also works well at Campus Rally’s, but when push comes to shove, if the targeted Millionaire becomes a citizen of “name another country”, the tax no longer exists. Just look at the state by state exodus to avoid hefty taxes within the U.S. and one gets the drift. Neal’s conservative moniker is: “Nancy Pelosi’s and Ireland’s Tax Man on the Hill”(from pre-2010 Republican House Takeover, a must read originally published on Brietbarts’s Big Government.) Neal is worth watching, although projected to be in the Congress longer than Bob Byrd.

Santorum’s Email Endorsement of Romney, Lost in the Text – No Less Powerful – Headlines Can Be Deceiving.

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Wed, 09 May 2012 10:11:00 +0000

The email endorsement of Mitt Romney by former rival Rick Santorum was found in the end of an email written to supporter – so well-crafted as to be, by some who might be continuing to warm to Mitt Romney, completely missed – that would be this blogger. It goes without saying, therein lays the danger of taking opinion pieces as “news” – even if the piece contains evidence contrary to a headline. In fact, that has been by and because of editorial boards who either eschew blogs, or embrace the first blog they come across and print without follow-up.

The fact that the endorsement came in the 13th paragraph, is being touted by the media as somehow “tepid” , not as rousing as it should be perhaps. (Wall Street Journal). The preamble to the endorsement was more of a “why one should support Mitt Romney”, and that was very clear – the differences, the similarities, were all spelled out rather clearly – and Santorum’s case for Romney, was crafted to insure that supporters and non-supporters understood his backing the former Massachusetts Senator, who has a reputation for slash and burn campaigns (for lack of a better euphemism). The point, Santorum was being careful in his wording, and that was in order to bring those conservatives who might otherwise be considering other options, into a frame of mind where Romney becomes more appealing to those who would, once again, be holding their noses as they vote, and that they will.

The least ardent of the Romney supporters, or those who would have preferred any other candidate, when faced with a choice between Romney and Obama, will not stay home from the polls, nor will they vote for Obama (that is a fantasy of the media and most probably the Obama Campaign), they will come out and vote for the economy, against the Health Care Program crafted by a Democrat controlled Legislature, against the waste and the scandals and the stories that the media fails to report, or does so on page 83, if at all – and they will vote for Mitt Romney. This is, indeed, Romney’s opportunity to lead the nation forward, both economically and in some semblance of unity. The only problems Romney might face in a quest to unite the nation politically, would be the extreme left – those progressive in the vein of Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid and company. That said Romney has experience dealing with the lot of them – having done so in Massachusetts. It’s knowing when to hold them and when to fold them – and when to fight.

Therefore, although missing an endorsement (obvious when read a third time), the point and theme were constant – Romney is ok, he’s going to best Obama and we are going to help him accomplish this task – and put our fiscal house in order. In adding to that, one might also consider our national “emotional house” which is in dire straits, and needs a boost. Romney may not be the most charismatic politician, nor the most seasoned, but he does exude confidence, and a careful approach to issues that is to be respected, not ridiculed, and therefore, will make a fine leader – not a bit like Bush (as the Campaign and the media attempt to make that comparison), rather a lot like Romney. This blogger is more than comfortable with Romney as the GOP candidate and the clear alternative to President Obama and the policies of the current administration.

Press Jumps the Gun on Santorum Endorsement of Romney – Uses Email to Supporters – See Text – Endorsement No, Warming Yes

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Tue, 08 May 2012 10:45:00 +0000

Rick Santorum and Mitt Romney post Debate - image: Catholicvote.org

From the Allentown Morning Call, a Reuters News Piece entitled: “Republican Santorum endorses Romney for president” speaks to an email sent to Santorum supporters yesterday, noting that the email endorsed former Massachusetts Governor and GOP Frontrunner and presumptive nominee, Mitt Romney – it did not, necessarily or formally. The text of the email is shown below with an obvious “warming” to the candidacy of Mitt Romney for President, but no formal endorsement. That said, in closing Rick Santorum does not he has an announcement coming soon – that may be the formal endorsement.

Text of email:

On Friday, Governor Romney came to Pittsburgh for an over-hour long one-on-one meeting. The conversation was candid, collegial and focused on the issues that you helped me give voice to during our campaign; because I believe they are essential ingredients to not only winning this fall, but turning our country around.
While the issue of my endorsement did not come up, I certainly have heard from many of you who have weighed in on whether or not I should issue a formal endorsement. Thank you for your counsel, it has been most helpful. However, I felt that it was completely impossible for me to even consider an endorsement until after a meeting to discuss issues critical to those of us who often feel our voices are not heard by the establishment: social conservatives, tea-party supporters, lower and middle income working families.
Clearly without the overwhelming support from you all, I never would have won 11 states and over 3 million votes, and we would not have won more counties than all the other candidates combined. I can assure you that even though I am no longer a candidate for president, I will still continue to fight every day for our shared values - the values that made America the greatest country in the history of the world.
During our meeting I felt a deep responsibility to assess Governor Romney's commitment to addressing the issues most important to conservatives, as well his commitment to ensuring our appropriate representation in a Romney administration.
The family and its foundational role in America's economic success, a central point of our campaign, was discussed at length. I was impressed with the Governor's deep understanding of this connection and his commitment to economic policies that preserve and strengthen families. He clearly understands that having pro-family initiatives are not only the morally and economically right thing to do, but that the family is the basic building block of our society and must be preserved.
I also shared with Governor Romney my belief that we cannot restore America as the greatest economic engine the world has ever seen until we return America to being a manufacturing superpower. He listened very carefully to my advice on this matter, and while our policy prescriptions differed, he clearly expressed his desire to create more opportunities for those that are feeling left behind in this economy.
As it is often said, "personnel is policy." I strongly encouraged Governor Romney as he builds out his campaign staff and advisors that he add more conservative leaders as an integral part of his team. And you can be sure that I will work with the Governor to help him in this task to ensure he has a strong team that will support him in his conservative policy initiatives.
Of course we talked about what it would take to win this election. As you know I started almost every speech with the phrase that this was the most important election since the election of 1860 and four more years of President Obama is simply not an option. As I contemplated what further steps I will take, that reality weighed heavy on me. The America we know is being fundamentally changed to look more like a European socialist state than the land of opportunity our founding fathers established.
Freedom and personal responsibility are being replaced with big government dependency. The greatest and most productive workers in the world are being hamstrung by excessive regulations making it impossible to compete. Our healthcare system had been socialized, and the worth of each life dictated by some government bureaucrat. Our allies are insulted while our enemies are appeased. And our religious beliefs and freedom have come under attack.
What is even more troubling is what a second term of an Obama administration could bring. President Obama's admission to the Russians that he will have more flexibility in a second term can only be translated to "if you thought I was liberal in the first four years you haven't seen anything yet!"
The primary campaign certainly made it clear that Governor Romney and I have some differences. But there are many significant areas in which we agree: the need for lower taxes, smaller government, and a reduction in out-of-control spending. We certainly agree that abortion is wrong and marriage should be between one man and one woman. I am also comfortable with Governor Romney on foreign policy matters, and we share the belief that we can never allow Iran to possess nuclear weapons. And while I had concerns about Governor Romney making a case as a candidate about fighting against Obamacare, I have no doubt if elected he will work with a Republican Congress to repeal it and replace it with a bottom up, patient, not government, driven system.
Above all else, we both agree that President Obama must be defeated. The task will not be easy. It will require all hands on deck if our nominee is to be victorious. Governor Romney will be that nominee and he has my endorsement and support to win this the most critical election of our lifetime.
My conversation with Governor Romney was very productive, but I intend to keep lines of communication open with him and his campaign. I hope to ensure that the values that made America that shining city on the hill are illuminated brightly by our party and our candidates thus ensuring not just a victory, but a mandate for conservative governance.
Karen and I know firsthand how difficult the campaign trail can be particularly as governor Romney faces relentless attacks from the democrats. We have been praying for him and his family and will continue to do so in the weeks and months ahead.
Thank you again for all you have done for us, and I look forward to working together to defeat President Obama this fall and to protect faith, family, freedom and opportunity in America.
With Gratitude,

Rick Santorum
P.S. As promised, very soon we will be making another big announcement, and I will be asking you to once again join forces with me to keep up the fight, together. Stay tuned.

The above email to supporters of Rick Santorum shows his political and diplomatic acumen, taking the time to explain some of the “similarities” between him and Mitt Romney on issues such as family and foreign policy, as well as an acceptable agreement on his number one issue – increasing manufacturing and production within the United States. However, the formal “therefore I endorse Mitt Romney” does not appear in the original text. Santorum is one of the most honest, straight-forward politician’s in recent history – and clearly understands that moving to the center for a great majority of his supporters may take some time. That said, when given the option between voting for Obama and an unnamed Republican (or opposition candidate), there is a clear preference for the Massachusetts Governor among Republican voters. It is clear that the established media is “jumping the gun” and has, as is the par, done little to no “fact checking” prior to taking a wire, blog, or other internet source as “solid news.” – One can write almost anything and have it taken as “fact” rather than, in the case of this blog, “opinion”. It should be noted therefore, in anyone’s article that “in the opinion of Reuters, the email suggests that Santorum may be on the verge of endorsing Mitt Romney for President”, in order for this piece to be credible. That’s the opinion of this blog.

Planning a Trip to Mexico? Beheadings, Hangings, and Drug Violence Rampant Across Country

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Mon, 07 May 2012 11:01:00 +0000

Scenes from the Mexican Border Towns - image The Blaze.com

Boston Globe Reports on a shootout in Mexico City where 5 people were killed, and notes it may have been related “to drug trafficking, but some parts of Mexico City have seen violence by drug gangs and organized crime, though the capital city is less affected than some other cities. More than 47,500 people have died in violence linked to Mexico's war on drugs nationwide since December 2006”. More than probable, over by the border, twenty three bodies were found, nine of them hung (from a bridge) and another 14 found decapitated (Stars and Stripes). There appears to be a resemblance to the types of violence in Mexico today to that of the Iraqi conflict. Most notably Fallujah, where contractors were hung from a bridge, and the “revenge” decapitations of British citizens and American citizens. Journalism is the most high risk occupation in Mexico, right up there with rival gangs (or cartels).
Borderland Beat latest reports on the decapitations note that the recent deaths were the result of a drug cartel leader’s anger with a local mayor in a power struggle, the following were actions that the “cartel leader” took credit:

On March 26 when they appeared in the border city seven human heads under a narco manta declaring responsibility being El Chapo.
On April 17, 14 dismembered bodies in an abandoned van behind the City Hall, where plastic tarps were left over corpses, attributing the killing also the leader of the Sinaloa Cartel.
On April 24, the Tamaulipas attorney, Victor Almanza concluded that there is no evidence that the killings were by the criminal group of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, and stressed that the display of the 14 bodies only intended to generate terror, and panic.
Meanwhile, Mayor Benjamin Galvan and together with the Public Safety Director, Alfonso Olvera Ledezma, read a statement which said together that the Sinaloa cartel does not operate in Nuevo Laredo.
The next day, April 25, in response to the above, a car bomb exploded outside the premises of the Ministry of Public Security in Nuevo Laredo.

(Border Beat)

One has to ask themselves, if a vacation is planned, would one want to cross the border into Mexico? The violence is so widespread (see Borderland Beat archives, and or UK papers that documents resort area violence), is it no wonder that Mexican nationals may be entering the U.S. – Perhaps they should be asking for political asylum. Also, one should question the U.S. Governments’ response to the Arizona State law on Illegal Immigration –Arizona and other bordering states have seen an increase in crime as those members of drug cartels have crossed the border on business, and while in the U.S. illegally (drug running, gun running), take time to murder American citizens (among other less deadly crimes).

Apparently, the war directly on the U.S. Mexican border is worth looking at, those attempting to get into the country to avoid the violence, might be allowed a visa or some sort of “pass” especially if they are fleeing for their lives, and finally, the border should be secured, militarily. It appears to be a case of national security.

Mitt Romney – Party Unifying Behind the Presumptive GOP Nominee – Bachmann Endorses – Fantasy Electoral Map: ABC outcome versus Gallup Polls.

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Fri, 04 May 2012 10:15:00 +0000

Michelle Bachmann on the Stump for Mitt Romney for President- image Boston Globe

ABC News – Yahoo News: Michelle Bachmann has endorsed Mitt Romney with a typical Bachmannism: (Mitt Romney is) “"the last chance we have to keep America from going ... over a cliff." The only woman to run on the GOP ticket, Bachmann left the race in January after the Iowa Caucus – she is noted for her work with the Tea Party from the beginning, and was responsible for rallying Conservatives to an historical win in the 2010 general election.

Bachmann, along with Governor Bob McDonnell went on the campaign trail with Mitt Romney in Virginia yesterday, of course there was the usual speculation as to which former candidate or Governor, might be in consideration for the V.P. slot, (Politico) however, as history tells us, no-one is going to be aware of who Mitt Romney will choose as his second. In Romney’s case, as a businessman and former Governor, he will look towards capabilities, as well as the political opportunity a particular V.P. candidate might bring to the table. Therefore, it’s anyone’s guess, and speculation is rampant with every single high profile Republican who has endorsed Romney – from Senator Rubio in Florida, to Nikki Haley in South Carolina.

Over at ABC News one can play “fantasy” election – by mapping the electoral votes by state, awarding the states that one believes would go to Mitt Romney and those that Might go to Barack Obama – ABC Currently favors Romney: with 198 to Obama’s 196 solid votes (either Democrat or Republican based on voting history of the state in question – Obama picks up 54 votes for states that “lean Democrat”, while Romney has 11 that lean Republican, there are 82 electoral votes that are “could go either way”, from the following states: VA, NC, IA, FL, NV and CO. Of course, one might use an entirely different method of playing this game - basing it on the Presidents job performance numbers, state by state. Any state over 50% approvals (and that includes states where his approval is at 50.1%) is a fairly safe bet for Obama – there are, according to Gallup’s latest findings: 10 states where Obama enjoy a 50% or better threshold of job performance approval. This has been consistent with the last three survey’s taken by the polling firm – Approval January 2012, February 2011, and the first in February 2010, when the map looked a little bright for the President, the top states where his approval ranked higher than others, remained the same.)

Using this data, giving the President the consistent 10 states, the “Fantasy” Map (versus the ABC Official Fantasy Map (ABS Does Not sure the Word Fantasy, but given the fact that the news organization has about as much chance as accurately predicting the outcome of the 2012 general as, well, a blogger using Gallup approval rankings in 10 states) - the map looks a bit more like:

Map Generated by ABC Fantasy Election Game - using Polling data from Gallup - click to enlarge

In the map above, it looks similar to a route, and although giving Romney the industrial states of Michigan Ohio and Wisconsin may appear to be a bit risky, it is based on who might get out to vote, and who might just stay home – with every indication that the youth vote could care less, and that there would have to be some sort of miracle between now and November to turn the tide on the price of gas, food, and goods, and create several million jobs, (in the private sector), while uniting not only the Democrat Party but the Independents and yes some Republicans – in this mind, not likely. Even with the dead voting, with the current climate in Massachusetts, the state has been given to changing minds in Carter-like election years: as well as several of the other states given to the President as “solid” Democrat. It is more likely that the race will depend, this time, on the persona of the individual, or their ties to figures in recent history (i.e. tying Romney to Bush is similar to tying Obama to Clinton – no one is buying it – unless one is speaking to the “choir.)

You too can play along: at abcnews.go.com/Politics/OTUS/fullpage/2012-presidential-electionos-fantsasy-game-game-changer-1517794.

Mitt Romney’s “Attempt” to Compare Obama to Carter – Romney’s Clear Sense of History – “Those who Ignore the Past are Doomed to Repeat It”

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Thu, 03 May 2012 10:30:00 +0000

Carter and Obama Comparison - from the Wall Street Journal

In an article from Reuters this morning, the headline “Romney wants voters to see Jimmy Carter in Obama”, leads into an article that makes anyone with a sense of history (or who lived in reality during the Carter Administration) shrug – the story line:

“Romney accused Obama of being anti-business and compared him to Carter, seen by Republicans as an example of a weak Democratic president. Carter served from 1977 to 1981.”

(Reuters)

During the Carter Administration errors were made that had not only “Republicans”, but a majority of the voters sitting up and taking stock of one Ronald Reagan (or anyone actually could have replaced Carter) – at the time, Democrats were so disenfranchised from the administration that they voted for Reagan in droves, coining the term “Reagan Democrats” – after four years of Carter, Ronald Reagan made a clean sweep of the electoral map, and one has to note, that included Massachusetts. There were the bailouts, the jobs bills, the budget, the cost of oil and gasoline, and then the scarcity and the gas lines, the Middle East fiasco and Iran – from the economy to foreign policy – Jimmy Carter was a disaster. That is not, however, how he is portrayed by the modern day press nor by the Progressive professors – Carter is portrayed as someone who got the raw end of a deal. It is best to blame the Republican predecessor - familiar? Those “rascally Republicans” getting the blame once again for something they warned the public about!

However, in the late 1970’s, individuals were introduced to the misery index (a combination of the rate of inflation and the unemployment rate under Jimmy Carter), a man who was elected as a nice Governor, who was a peanut farmer, and purportedly had a sense of busies and government combined – he was also a first term Governor.
Warning bells should have gone off left and right, however, desperate to see a fresh face (the American Way) in office, the people duly voted party line, (hook and sinker) for the man who would “save America”. They did so without thinking that someone with little to no experience might not be the best fit for the job of CEO – it’s a risk American’s take, when choosing a President, one might have reams of experience or not, a vision or plan or not, and in Carter’s case, the systematic destruction of the economy, his bailout of Chrysler, his jobs plans that relied heavily on the government rather than the private sector – one could go on.

The problem is – it sounds all eerily familiar – as if someone took a blueprint of what not to do to the United States of America, and did it anyhow. Surely Mitt Romney (given his age) would have seen some of the effect of the Carter era; many others might recall giving up a car for public transportation since there was little use in paying for insurance on a mode of transportation for which there was no fuel. Hamburger became the new steak, and those on fixed incomes, well; they started to find cat food to be quite the delicacy. Although at the present time, we are nowhere near that catastrophe, we are at a point where there are significant numbers of people out of work; we see the costs of groceries, and clothing rising, due to the rise in gasoline and diesel prices (bringing the goods to market). We do see bailouts, and we do see Job’s programs, and we do see a pattern. Some are Republican’s, others are not.

Therefore, Romney is not looking to make it appear that Obama is like Carter, he’s just giving everyone a simple history lesson. It is not as if the Obama Campaign isn’t comparing Romney to Bush (of course, they are using Bush as that is considered recent history, and it is quite obvious to those who have followed the Obama Administration from day one, that Romney’s comparison is – honest.

It is not that this blog is enamored of Mitt Romney, one only needs to read the material contained herein to understand there may be some flaws involved when it comes to Romney’s path to balancing budgets (get ready for fee’s!), however, set that aside, and one finds a man who actually understands business, and the business of running a government, (States, even small Sates like the Bay State count), and now we find, understands history – making him less likely to repeat mistakes made by say, George W. Bush. Therefore, comparing historical knowledge of both candidates for Presidency and the ability of one to grasp facts, while the other ignored the facts, and followed the Carter path, makes Romney infinitely more appealing to those who would prefer not to live in “misery”, and in addition more qualified from the perspective of being able to look at past mistakes and take a different tactic.

As to Carter-Obama Comparisons, one is invited to peruse this blog, and one would think others, whose opinions link to credible news sources from the late 1970’s – with a bit of personal historical recall included. Exhibit A: ”Obama - Shades of Jimmy Carter! – Unemployment at 8.5%, Government Creates 60,000 Temporary Jobs – Cuts Defense – Analysis” (the Date: May 9th 2009)

Exhibit B: ”Obama Repeating History – Calls for Increase in Tax Revenue – Increased Public Sector Stimulus, Recipe for both Fiscal and Electoral Disaster” (the Date: Sept. 19, 2011)
(There are more, depending upon the year, but available in search of blog or simple Google)

It was in amazement that one was able to watch the Obama Administration mirror the tactics of the Carter Administration, knowing full well that there was sufficient data available that would have allowed one to read and understand – what one was about to unleash on the American Public, had been tried before and filed – miserably.
Therefore, in fairness to the Obama campaign comparing Romney to Bush – yes, they are both Republicans. However, Romney on the other hand, is going a bit beyond the party affiliation and to the core of what went wrong, and how it could have gone so right – had President Obama done exactly the opposite of Jimmy Carter, he may have been extremely successful, (yes, even the deficit under Carter, adjusted for inflation, is equal to the current deficit), and Romney merely a foot note.

However, as it stands now, one can see the writing on the wall come November, even if, there is a miracle and the economy makes a slight recovery – to have that happen, gas prices would have to drop significantly before summer, otherwise, there simply will not be enough time for the economy to adjust, specifically when it comes to prices of food and necessities that are driven to market, and affect the daily lives of the population. Cutting the corporate tax rate to zero now, would not show effect until 2013 – again too late (See the Reagan plan, and the rocket that was the economy in his hands.)

Therefore, to all those who know that Carter was well-meaning and a giving and caring man (see Habitat for Humanity), as the leader of the free world, he was – in a word- disastrous – One can re-write history, but one cannot erase the memories of millions of Americans (now in the largest voting bloc in history (baby boomers) who saw the similarities from the beginning. To Mitt Romney, kudos for the history lesson, although the Press is not pleased that you may have gotten a point or to right and that you have the nerve to try to equate Obama and Carter – as if on purpose!

Bush Romney Comparison - rather old/new tactic from the Obama Administration - it may have worked on McCain - but that is history - image via Salon dot com

Elizabeth Warren, Democrat Candidate for Senator, MA, Working the System as a “Minority” Proud that she is 1/32 Native American!

noreply@blogger.com (Tina Hemond) — Wed, 02 May 2012 10:33:00 +0000

An ABC Newsarticle suggests that MA Democrat Senatorial Candidate, Elizabeth Warren, used her status as being of Cherokee Heritage to claim minority status:

Law School directories from the Association of American Law Schools from 1986-1995 list Warren as a minority law professor. During this time Warren taught at the University of Texas School of Law and the University of Pennsylvania Law School.

.

Somehow, being 1/32 of any culture, gives you a bit of bragging rights, however, to use this as a means to obtain employment, is a bit of a stretch – and/or otherwise: working the system.

Elizabeth Warren will face one of Massachusetts most popular politicians, Scott Brown, Republican Senator from Massachusetts. Brown, who at times angers far right conservatives for taking a moderate approach, is a hit with the unenrolled, which make up a majority of the voters in the Bay State.

Warrens advertising is very subtle, no attacks (yet), but an introduction of sorts, one thing of note - nowhere in any of her televised ads does it mention political affiliation. They are so low-key as to be non-memorable.

See latest ad below – Perhaps she is taking the tactic that someone may think she is running sans Party:

The rhetoric contained in the advertisement is also very “Occupy Wall Street” a movement Warren has taken credit for in the past – similar to Al Gore and the Internet.

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