Pressing The Flesh

Politico 44 President's Calendar

2009-04-27T14:41:00.001-04:00

Methinks I Smell A Hypocrite!

2009-04-15T21:44:00.003-04:00

Governor Rick Perry is talking about Texas seceding from the Union, because he doesn't like the ways things are going in "his" country.

There was a time not too long ago, when the roles were reversed - Democrats who voiced opposition to the Bush Administration were labeled as traitors, and were told to "Love It or Leave It."

And while I won't stoop to the same level, I will say this - Your. Party. Lost. Of COURSE, there are going to be things that happen in this Country that YOU don't agree with - and that's OK. But you don't get to change the rules all of a sudden and say that the current Administration is suddenly "unconstitutional" after watching the travesty of Constitutional treatment over the last eight years.

So, if you don't like being in the Minority... well, get used to it. And if you can't get used to it, maybe you'd prefer to take an "extended vacation" to another location until things are more to your liking.

That'll just leave more of Austin for ME to enjoy.

My First iPhone Posting!

2009-03-25T22:56:00.000-04:00

BOO!

In an effort to once again rekindle the flame of my love affair with PTF, and with all of you, I've decided to try posting via my new passion, my iPhone!

This is really just a test posting, but if it works, expect a lot more where this came from!

FleshPresser

HISTORY IN THE MAKING

2008-11-04T08:52:00.002-05:00

Regardless of your affiliation, History will be made today! GET OUT AND VOTE!!!

Don't Vote...

2008-10-02T12:23:00.000-04:00

... but if you're hell bent on it, and you're not registered, you better do it FAST. There's only another couple of days left to register, and there are a MILLION different ways to do it.

Or... just don't vote.

After You register, It's Time To Invest...

2008-10-02T09:50:00.000-04:00

No time like the present for advice on a new investment firm... right?

A Slice of Hypocrisy...

2008-09-04T12:45:00.000-04:00

This is just a SMALL sampling of the type of hypocrisy I was commenting about earlier, deliciously served up by Jon Stewart:

Couldn't have said it better!

Baby Bump In The Road...

2008-09-01T21:09:00.000-04:00

Whoops!

Over the last week, rumors resurfaced about GOP Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin and her fifth child, Trig. The essential story is that Sarah Palin claimed the child as her own to protect her daughter, Bristol, who actually had the child.

While various blogs have been flurrying about trying to get to the bottom of the story, yet another story was actually substantiated today by the Palin family - that 17-year-old Bristol is actually five months pregnant going into the GOP Convention.

According to the family statement, Sarah Palin asked the media to respect her family's privacy during this difficult time.

There's one tiny problem in this... barring a hurricane battering the Gulf Coast right now, the eyes of just about every media outlet in America is focused, at least in part, on St. Paul and the Republican Convention. Not exactly a convenient time to ask for the media to respect one's privacy.

Which leads me to several questions... maybe you have some answers for me?

* Who was the Brain Trust in the McCain campaign that thought, during the vetting process, that this was going to be OK? Sarah Palin is already under investigation in her home state, there are rumors that had been flying around Alaska for quite a while now about Sarah Palin actually being a grandmother rather than a mother to her fifth child, and her daughter, Bristol, is five months pregnant.

Now let's forget all of the moral high ground that Republicans love to stand on and just look at this pragmatically. Anyone who believes, given the current political climate with the Bush Administration, that the McCain campaign was going to be an easy one needs to simply put down the pipe. This was NEVER going to be an easy campaign for McCain. So, in vetting potential candidates, why on earth would ANYONE suggest to McCain that choosing Palin was a good idea?

I'm mature enough to understand political realities - though I thought John Edwards was a dream veep for Obama (and whether you agree or not is a different story), I KNEW that as soon as the story came out about him cheating on his wife, that dream was gone... regardless of how wonderful a candidate he might have been. And this is not to say that I AGREE with that particular political reality, but I'm astute enough to recognize it.

So, how could people who are paid to do this for a living think for a moment that this would just be water under the bridge that no one would care about?

And while we're talking about people not caring...

* In how many ways can one call people like James Dobson, Tony Perkins, and other Christian Conservative leaders HYPOCRITES??? Look, I KNOW that Sarah Palin isn't the one who is pregnant out of wedlock. I KNOW that these types of things happen to liberal families and conservative families and strong families and trainwreck families - mistakes are made all the time across this country. But when the Religious Right holds up this family as an example and thinks it'll actually humanize the candidate... well, again I'll simply say "Put. Down. The. Pipe."

My outrage (right now, anyway) isn't with Bristol Palin. And it isn't with Sarah Palin as her parent. It's with the Republicans who suddently forget that they were the FIRM advocates of such failed policies as abstinence-only sex education, and yet jump up and down, voicing praise for the Palin family because they can make lemonade out of a bad decision? Does anyone remember what people like Perkins and Dobson have said about children having sex out of wedlock in this country?!?

Between these stories and the hurricane upstaging the Convention, the Republicans have got to be thinking twice about the adage that kharma is a bitch.

Eight Is Enough

2008-08-28T19:14:00.000-04:00

OK, so it's probably not going to measure up to the speech whose 45th anniversary is celebrated today, and maybe people will question the pillars behind him when he speaks, but make NO mistake... tonight is a historic night.

And for those of you who believe that Barack Obama has no plan to bring about the change he is talking about, LISTEN CLOSELY tonight as he spells it out for you... once again. And if you choose not to listen, you can read it right here, before it even comes out of his mouth in Denver. Here are excerpts from his historic speech to be presented tonight:

“Four years ago, I stood before you and told you my story – of the brief union between a young man from Kenya and a young woman from Kansas who weren’t well-off or well-known, but shared a belief that in America, their son could achieve whatever he put his mind to.

“It is that promise that has always set this country apart – that through hard work and sacrifice, each of us can pursue our individual dreams but still come together as one American family, to ensure that the next generation can pursue their dreams as well.

“It is why I stand here tonight. Because for two hundred and thirty two years, at each moment when that promise was in jeopardy, ordinary men and women – students and soldiers, farmers and teachers, nurses and janitors -- found the courage to keep it alive.

“We meet at one of those defining moments – a moment when our nation is at war, our economy is in turmoil, and the American promise has been threatened once more.

“Tonight, more Americans are out of work and more are working harder for less. More of you have lost your homes and more are watching your home values plummet. More of you have cars you can’t afford to drive, credit card bills you can’t afford to pay and tuition that is beyond your reach

“These challenges are not all of government’s making. But the failure to respond is a direct result of a broken politics in Washington and the failed presidency of George W. Bush.

“America, we are better than these last eight years. We are a better country than this.”

***

“This moment – this election – is our chance to keep, in the 21st century, the American promise alive. Because next week, in Minnesota, the same party that brought you two terms of George Bush and Dick Cheney will ask this country for a third. And we are here because we love this country too much to let the next four years look just like the last eight. On November 4th, we must stand up and say: “Eight is enough.”

“Now let there be no doubt. The Republican nominee, John McCain, has worn the uniform of our country with bravery and distinction, and for that we owe him our gratitude and respect. And next week, we’ll also hear about those occasions when he’s broken with his party as evidence that he can deliver the change that we need.

“But the record’s clear: John McCain has voted with George Bush ninety percent of the time. Senator McCain likes to talk about judgment, but really, what does it say about your judgment when you think George Bush was right more than ninety percent of the time? I don’t know about you, but I’m not ready to take a ten percent chance on change.”

***
“You see, we Democrats have a very different measure of what constitutes progress in this country.

“We measure progress by how many people can find a job that pays the mortgage; whether you can put away a little extra money at the end of each month so that you can someday watch your child receive her diploma. We measure progress in the 23 million new jobs that were created when Bill Clinton was President – when the average American family saw its income go up $7,500 instead of down $2,000 like it has under George Bush.

“We measure the strength of our economy not by the number of billionaires we have or the profits of the Fortune 500, but by whether someone with a good idea can take a risk and start a business, or whether the waitress who lives on tips can take a day off to look after a sick kid without losing her job – an economy that honors the dignity of work.

“The fundamentals we use to measure economic strength are whether we are living up to that fundamental promise that has made this country great – a promise that is the only reason I am standing here tonight.”

***

“That’s the promise we need to keep. That’s the change we need right now. So let me spell out exactly what that change would mean if I am President.
.
“Change means a tax code that doesn’t reward the lobbyists who wrote it, but the American workers and small businesses who deserve it.

“Unlike John McCain, I will stop giving tax breaks to corporations that ship our jobs overseas, and I will start giving them to companies that create good jobs right here in America.

“I will eliminate capital gains taxes for the small businesses and the start-ups that will create the high-wage, high-tech jobs of tomorrow.

“I will cut taxes – cut taxes – for 95% of all working families. Because in an economy like this, the last thing we should do is raise taxes on the middle-class.

“And for the sake of our economy, our security, and the future of our planet, I will set a clear goal as President: in ten years, we will finally end our dependence on oil from the Middle East.

“Washington has been talking about our oil addiction for the last thirty years, and John McCain has been there for twenty-six of them. In that time, he’s said no to higher fuel-efficiency standards for cars, no to investments in renewable energy, no to renewable fuels. And today, we import triple the amount of oil as the day that Senator McCain took office.

“Now is the time to end this addiction, and to understand that drilling is a stop-gap measure, not a long-term solution. Not even close.

“As President, I will tap our natural gas reserves, invest in clean coal technology, and find ways to safely harness nuclear power. I’ll help our auto companies re-tool, so that the fuel-efficient cars of the future are built right here in America. I’ll make it easier for the American people to afford these new cars. And I’ll invest $150 billion over the next decade in affordable, renewable sources of energy – wind power and solar power and the next generation of biofuels; an investment that will lead to new industries and five million new jobs that pay well and can’t ever be outsourced.”

***

“We are the party of Roosevelt. We are the party of Kennedy. So don’t tell me that Democrats won’t defend this country. Don’t tell me that Democrats won’t keep us safe. The Bush-McCain foreign policy has squandered the legacy that generations of Americans -- Democrats and Republicans – have built, and we are to restore that legacy.

“As Commander-in-Chief, I will never hesitate to defend this nation, but I will only send our troops into harm’s way with a clear mission and a sacred commitment to give them the equipment they need in battle and the care and benefits they deserve when they come home.

“I will end this war in Iraq responsibly, and finish the fight against al Qaeda and the Taliban in Afghanistan. I will rebuild our military to meet future conflicts. But I will also renew the tough, direct diplomacy that can prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. I will build new partnerships to defeat the threats of the 21st century: terrorism and nuclear proliferation; poverty and genocide; climate change and disease. And I will restore our moral standing so that America is once more the last, best hope for all who are called to the cause of freedom, who long for lives of peace, and who yearn for a better future.”

McBush

2008-08-16T13:49:00.000-04:00

Just in case you were wondering...

'Nuff said.

What I Did On My Summer Vacation...

2008-07-29T18:53:00.000-04:00

The polls show Obama and McCain bouncing back and forth in the polls, and I've had a few inclinations to jump into the fray, but it seems like there's little substantive stuff that's actually going to make it past Labor Day... with a few exceptions, which I'll get to in the next few days.

In the meantime, I wanted to share an incredible experience I had with you. A friend of mine asked if it was "life-altering" and I replied that it wasn't life-altering, but it certainly was life-expanding... one of the greatest experiences of my life!

Satire, Eh?

2008-07-15T15:42:00.000-04:00

I'm Voting Republican!

2008-06-17T15:16:00.000-04:00

With the sadness of the last few days, it was time for a laugh, and here it is.. BIG time!! Enjoy!

The Significance of Russert

2008-06-13T23:44:00.000-04:00

If you think that Tim Russert was just another talking head for the 24-hour news cycle... think again.

Take a look at some of the work of Tim Russert, and you begin to realize the significance of the loss of Tim Russert:

When people were talking about the remaining potential of Hillary Clinton's campaign, Tim Russert very objectively explained it in plain English so everyone could understand it, fail people from the Clinton campaign:

Beyond his news capabilities, there was another side to Tim Russert:

While Tom Brokaw will anchor this sunday's Meet The Press, I would actually put my money on Chuck Todd becoming the follow-up to Tim Russert, with a close second guess given to David Gregory. They will work hard and be motivated to become "Russert-ian" in their careers, though no one will ever be able to fully take his place.

Tim Russert, 1950-2008 R.I.P.

2008-06-13T15:50:00.001-04:00

I am blown away at the news of the death of Tim Russert today. He apparently died of a heart attack while at the Washington News Bureau of NBC, at the age of 58.

For political geeks like myself, I had a morning routine, and part of that routine entailed, whenever humanly possible, not getting up to do another damned thing on Sunday mornings until after Meet The Press was over.

For geeks such as myself, this is the equivilent of someone of the statue of Johnny Carson passing - even moreso. Not only will Russert's presence be missed every Sunday morning, but his presence will be missed... period. This isn't just a retirement from the show or from journalism. This is Russert - gone.

He was FAR too young to die, and had SO much insight left to ahre. In our world of 24-hour news, and alleged pundits popping up ad infinitum on cable talk shows, Russert's voice was one that was truly worth listening to and taking note. Russert had the intelligence, backbone, and forethought to conduct truly "meaningful" interviews with anyone who WAS anyone in the political field, and to synthesize and make that information useful and meaningful.

There is so much more that I could say about the man, but I'm simply stunned right now.

Perhaps I will root for the Buffalo Bills this year, despite my STRONG allegiance to the Washington Redskins, as a tribute to Tim Russert.

It will still be Sunday... but it just won't be the same.

History Made Tonight!

2008-06-03T20:12:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to Barack Obama, the undisputed Democratic Nominee for President of the United States! He has achieved what no other African-American in our country has ever achieved, and history has been made... Hallelujah!

Here is a preview of the comments he will make in Minnepolis later tonight:

Tonight, after fifty-four hard-fought contests, our primary season has finally come to an end.

Sixteen months have passed since we first stood together on the steps of the Old State Capitol in Springfield, Illinois. Thousands of miles have been traveled. Millions of voices have been heard. And because of what you said -- because you decided that change must come to Washington; because you believed that this year must be different than all the rest; because you chose to listen not to your doubts or your fears but to your greatest hopes and highest aspirations, tonight we mark the end of one historic journey with the beginning of another -- a journey that will bring a new and better day to America.
Tonight, I can stand before you and say that I will be the Democratic nominee for President of the United States.

I want to thank every American who stood with us over the course of this campaign -- through the good days and the bad; from the snows of Cedar Rapids to the sunshine of Sioux Falls. And tonight I also want to thank the men and woman who took this journey with me as fellow candidates for President.

At this defining moment for our nation, we should be proud that our party put forth one of the most talented, qualified field of individuals ever to run for this office. I have not just competed with them as rivals, I have learned from them as friends, as public servants, and as patriots who love America and are willing to work tirelessly to make this country better. They are leaders of this party, and leaders that America will turn to for years to come.

That is particularly true for the candidate who has traveled further on this journey than anyone else. Senator Hillary Clinton has made history in this campaign not just because she's a woman who has done what no woman has done before, but because she's a leader who inspires millions of Americans with her strength, her courage, and her commitment to the causes that brought us here tonight.

We've certainly had our differences over the last sixteen months. But as someone who's shared a stage with her many times, I can tell you that what gets Hillary Clinton up in the morning -- even in the face of tough odds -- is exactly what sent her and Bill Clinton to sign up for their first campaign in Texas all those years ago; what sent her to work at the Children's Defense Fund and made her fight for health care as First Lady; what led her to the United States Senate and fueled her barrier-breaking campaign for the presidency -- an unyielding desire to improve the lives of ordinary Americans, no matter how difficult the fight may be. And you can rest assured that when we finally win the battle for universal health care in this country, she will be central to that victory. When we transform our energy policy and lift our children out of poverty, it will be because she worked to help make it happen. Our party and our country are better off because of her, and I am a better candidate for having had the honor to compete with Hillary Rodham Clinton.

There are those who say that this primary has somehow left us weaker and more divided. Well I say that because of this primary, there are millions of Americans who have cast their ballot for the very first time. There are Independents and Republicans who understand that this election isn't just about the party in charge of Washington, it's about the need to change Washington.Ê There are young people, and African-Americans, and Latinos, and women of all ages who have voted in numbers that have broken records and inspired a nation.

All of you chose to support a candidate you believe in deeply. But at the end of the day, we aren't the reason you came out and waited in lines that stretched block after block to make your voice heard. You didn't do that because of me or Senator Clinton or anyone else. You did it because you know in your hearts that at this moment -- a moment that will define a generation -- we cannot afford to keep doing what we've been doing. We owe our children a better future. We owe our country a better future. And for all those who dream of that future tonight, I say -- let us begin the work together. Let us unite in common effort to chart a new course for America.

In just a few short months, the Republican Party will arrive in St. Paul with a very different agenda. They will come here to nominate John McCain, a man who has served this country heroically. I honor that service, and I respect his many accomplishments, even if he chooses to deny mine. My differences with him are not personal; they are with the policies he has proposed in this campaign.

Because while John McCain can legitimately tout moments of independence from his party in the past, such independence has not been the hallmark of his presidential campaign.

It's not change when John McCain decided to stand with George Bush ninety-five percent of the time, as he did in the Senate last year.

It's not change when he offers four more years of Bush economic policies that have failed to create well-paying jobs, or insure our workers, or help Americans afford the skyrocketing cost of college -- policies that have lowered the real incomes of the average American family, widened the gap between Wall Street and Main Street, and left our children with a mountain of debt.

And it's not change when he promises to continue a policy in Iraq that asks everything of our brave men and women in uniform and nothing of Iraqi politicians -- a policy where all we look for are reasons to stay in Iraq, while we spend billions of dollars a month on a war that isn't making the American people any safer.

So I'll say this -- there are many words to describe John McCain's attempt to pass off his embrace of George Bush's policies as bipartisan and new. But change is not one of them.

Change is a foreign policy that doesn't begin and end with a war that should've never been authorized and never been waged. I won't stand here and pretend that there are many good options left in Iraq, but what's not an option is leaving our troops in that country for the next hundred years -- especially at a time when our military is overstretched, our nation is isolated, and nearly every other threat to America is being ignored.

We must be as careful getting out of Iraq as we were careless getting in - but start leaving we must. It's time for Iraqis to take responsibility for their future. It's time to rebuild our military and give our veterans the care they need and the benefits they deserve when they come home. It's time to refocus our efforts on al Qaeda's leadership and Afghanistan, and rally the world against the common threats of the 21st century -- terrorism and nuclear weapons; climate change and poverty; genocide and disease. That's what change is.

Change is realizing that meeting today's threats requires not just our firepower, but the power of our diplomacy -- tough, direct diplomacy where the President of the United States isn't afraid to let any petty dictator know where America stands and what we stand for. We must once again have the courage and conviction to lead the free world. That is the legacy of Roosevelt, and Truman, and Kennedy. That's what the American people want. That's what change is.

Change is building an economy that rewards not just wealth, but the work and workers who created it. It's understanding that the struggles facing working families can't be solved by spending billions of dollars on more tax breaks for big corporations and wealthy CEOs, but by giving a the middle-class a tax break, and investing in our crumbling infrastructure, and transforming how we use energy, and improving our schools, and renewing our commitment to science and innovation. It's understanding that fiscal responsibility and shared prosperity can go hand-in-hand, as they did when Bill Clinton was President.

John McCain has spent a lot of time talking about trips to Iraq in the last few weeks, but maybe if he spent some time taking trips to the cities and towns that have been hardest hit by this economy -- cities in Michigan, and Ohio, and right here in Minnesota -- he'd understand the kind of change that people are looking for.

Maybe if he went to Iowa and met the student who works the night shift after a full day of class and still can't pay the medical bills for a sister who's ill, he'd understand that she can't afford four more years of a health care plan that only takes care of the healthy and wealthy. She needs us to pass health care plan that guarantees insurance to every American who wants it and brings down premiums for every family who needs it. That's the change we need.

Maybe if he went to Pennsylvania and met the man who lost his job but can't even afford the gas to drive around and look for a new one, he'd understand that we can't afford four more years of our addiction to oil from dictators. That man needs us to pass an energy policy that works with automakers to raise fuel standards, and makes corporations pay for their pollution, and oil companies invest their record profits in a clean energy future -- an energy policy that will create millions of new jobs that pay well and can't be outsourced. That's the change we need.

And maybe if he spent some time in the schools of South Carolina or St. Paul or where he spoke tonight in New Orleans, he'd understand that we can't afford to leave the money behind for No Child Left Behind; that we owe it to our children to invest in early childhood education; to recruit an army of new teachers and give them better pay and more support; to finally decide that in this global economy, the chance to get a college education should not be a privilege for the wealthy few, but the birthright of every American. That's the change we need in America. That's why I'm running for President.

The other side will come here in September and offer a very different set of policies and positions, and that is a debate I look forward to. It is a debate the American people deserve. But what you don't deserve is another election that's governed by fear, and innuendo, and division. What you won't hear from this campaign or this party is the kind of politics that uses religion as a wedge, and patriotism as a bludgeon -- that sees our opponents not as competitors to challenge, but enemies to demonize. Because we may call ourselves Democrats and Republicans, but we are Americans first. We are always Americans first.

Despite what the good Senator from Arizona said tonight, I have seen people of differing views and opinions find common cause many times during my two decades in public life, and I have brought many together myself. I've walked arm-in-arm with community leaders on the South Side of Chicago and watched tensions fade as black, white, and Latino fought together for good jobs and good schools. I've sat across the table from law enforcement and civil rights advocates to reform a criminal justice system that sent thirteen innocent people to death row. And I've worked with friends in the other party to provide more children with health insurance and more working families with a tax break; to curb the spread of nuclear weapons and ensure that the American people know where their tax dollars are being spent; and to reduce the influence of lobbyists who have all too often set the agenda in Washington.

In our country, I have found that this cooperation happens not because we agree on everything, but because behind all the labels and false divisions and categories that define us; beyond all the petty bickering and point-scoring in Washington, Americans are a decent, generous, compassionate people, united by common challenges and common hopes. And every so often, there are moments which call on that fundamental goodness to make this country great again.

So it was for that band of patriots who declared in a Philadelphia hall the formation of a more perfect union; and for all those who gave on the fields of Gettysburg and Antietam their last full measure of devotion to save that same union.

So it was for the Greatest Generation that conquered fear itself, and liberated a continent from tyranny, and made this country home to untold opportunity and prosperity.

So it was for the workers who stood out on the picket lines; the women who shattered glass ceilings; the children who braved a Selma bridge for freedom's cause.

So it has been for every generation that faced down the greatest challenges and the most improbable odds to leave their children a world that's better, and kinder, and more just.

And so it must be for us.

America, this is our moment. This is our time. Our time to turn the page on the policies of the past. Our time to bring new energy and new ideas to the challenges we face. Our time to offer a new direction for the country we love.

The journey will be difficult. The road will be long. I face this challenge with profound humility, and knowledge of my own limitations. But I also face it with limitless faith in the capacity of the American people. Because if we are willing to work for it, and fight for it, and believe in it, then I am absolutely certain that generations from now, we will be able to look back and tell our children that this was the moment when we began to provide care for the sick and good jobs to the jobless; this was the moment when the rise of the oceans began to slow and our planet began to heal; this was the moment when we ended a war and secured our nation and restored our image as the last, best hope on Earth. This was the moment -- this was the time -- when we came together to remake this great nation so that it may always reflect our very best selves, and our highest ideals. Thank you, God Bless you, and may God Bless the United States of America.

Obama Responds...

2008-04-13T23:01:00.000-04:00

We're coming down to the Home Stretch in Pennsylvania... who even though that Obama could close the HUGE gap in this amount of time. Part of that reason is because of responses like this to Clinton attacks:

I live in the state of Pennsylvania... for now.. and I am doing EVERYTHING in my power to prevent Clinton from winning here.

I've Been Put On Notice...

2008-03-24T00:25:00.000-04:00

...by none other than Mr. Colbert himself. And why, might you ask? Because I've been doing a lousy job at keeping this blog updated.

I'm sorry, Stephen. I promise to try and do better in the days and weeks to come.

ThankGod for Keith Olbermann!

2008-03-13T17:04:00.000-04:00

I have been incredibly busy as of late, and my blogging has obviously suffered.

It has obviously suffered at a time when I have MORE to say than ever before.

That's why I LOVE to watch Keith Olbermann take the words right out of my mouth.

LIVE BLOGGING - A Little Past Super Tuesday

2008-02-06T00:06:00.000-05:00

Thus far (as of midnight), here's how the states have gone:

BARACK OBAMA:
Alabama - 56% - 42%
Alaska - 72% - 27%
Colorado - 66% - 33%
Connecticut - 50% - 47%
Delaware - 53% - 42%
Georgia - 65% - 32%
Idaho - 81% - 15%
Illinois - 64% - 33%
Kansas - 73% - 27%
Minnesota - 67% - 32%
Missouri - 49% - 48%
North Dakota - 61% - 37%
Utah - 54% - 40%

HILLARY CLINTON:
Arizona - 50% - 41%
Arkansas - 72% - 23%
California - 55% - 33%
Massachusetts - 56% - 41%
New York - 57% - 40%
New Jersey - 54% - 44%
Oklahoma - 55% - 31%
Tennessee - 54% - 41%

What does all of this mean? Well, a few things. Honestly, I don't see how anyone could honestly say that Clinton comes out of Super Tuesday with the "winning momentum." Simply by not being defeated by Obama, the Clinton campaign has declared the day a "win."

I imagined that California would be closer that it appears right now, but I also imagine that the end numbers will tighten up significantly prior to the final tally. It's also important to note that the Clinton win is not surprising, given that there was a SIGNIFICANT amount of early votes in the state - votes cast prior to the latest Obama surge.

Clinton won Arkansas and New York (the benefit of having two "home states"), but with the exception of her "prior home state" of Arkansas, she never rises higher than the mid-50s, meaning that in a system where proportional assignment of delegates takes place, Obama remained close, and will receive significant piles of delegates in each of these states.

Meanwhile, look at some of the numbers for Obama... 66% in Colorado... 73% in Kansas... 81% in Idaho. In a lot of the states where Obama won, he claimed victory by significant margins.

Think about this, as well. A few weeks ago, the Clinton camp never even dreamed that her closest competition would be this close. Moving forward, Obama is going to have a SIGNIFICANT advantage in the money race moving forward. In a Super Tuesday-style primary, the candidate with a "national name" always maintains an advantage in trying to cover all of the states across the country in a matter of days.

Now, the race shifts. The primary season moves back to a series of smaller primaries, which will absolutely favor Obama. In addition, the upcoming primaries will all favor Obama in the next three to four weeks.

Clinton did not win tonight. Simply by listening to the pundits talk about the wins in California and New York as "news" is significant to the Obama campaign. At this point, I would be VERY concerned if I was in the Clinton campaign.

Obama has won states throughout the United States - from Alaska to Delaware, from Minnesota to Georgia. And simply by looking at the number of states won by Obama versus Clinton, there's no question that CHANGE is on the way!

LIVE BLOGGING SUPER TUESDAY

2008-02-05T18:35:00.000-05:00

So, I've been in rehearsal for a show right now, which is why I've failed to follow up here on Barack Obama's stunning win in South Carolina, the seemingly odd timing of John Edwards' departure from the race, or any number of stories that have come and gone since then.

I have yet to even officially write my activist endorsement of Barack Obama yet, but it WILL be forthcoming.

I even have a strange scenario floating around in my head right now, which remains consistent with polls as they stand right now, which sees Barack Obama clinching the nomination tonight.... OK, so it's a bit far-fetched... but so was the New York Giants upset over the New England Patriots, right? And given the results of New Hampshire, anything is possible these days.

Briefly, the scenario involves Obama winning California, taking at least 40% of the vote in New York, taking his home state of Illinois, winning Massachusetts (not terribly difficult to imagine given endorsements by Kerry and the Kennedy clan), making at least a strong showing in New Jersey and Connecticut, and winning BIG in states like Georgia.

I'll go into more detail about this later.... the real point of this post is to let you know that I'll be LiveBlogging results tonight - probably some time after 10:00PM Eastern.

So, hang with Keith and Chris until then, and I'll see you later tonight!

Shades of This Week?

2008-01-25T16:52:00.000-05:00

This is one of the funnier political videos I've seen in a while, and I thought I'd share...

Obama Leads Going Into South Carolina Primary...

2008-01-25T16:02:00.000-05:00

Despite all of the negative campaigning and attacks from the Clinton campaign over the last several days (or maybe because of them), Barack Obama is maintaining a 13 point lead over Clinton as tomorrow's South Carolina Democratic primary approaches.

What's even more exciting to me is that John Edwards' support is slowly creeping up, with indications that a second place finish would be possible for him tomorrow. I think that it would serve as a strong message for Clinton to be repaid with a third place finish for way the campaign has conducted themselves in recent days.

I'd love to reprint the entire endorsement from South Carolina's newspaper, The State, but I'll just share a brief portion of it, and you can read the rest of it on their website:

The restoration of the Clintons to the White House would trigger a new wave of all-out political warfare....Hillary Clinton doesn’t pretend that it won’t happen; she simply vows to persevere, in the hope that her side can win....

Sen. Obama’s campaign is an argument for a more unifying style of leadership. In a time of great partisanship, he is careful to talk about winning over independents and even Republicans. He is harsh on the failures of the current administration - and most of that critique well-deserved. But he doesn’t use his considerable rhetorical gifts to demonize Republicans. He’s not neglecting his core values; he defends his progressive vision with vigorous integrity. But for him, American unity - transcending party - is a core value in itself.

Sen. Obama would also have the best chance to repair the damage to America’s global reputation.... Sen. Obama is the only Democrat who plausibly can say that he wants to work with Americans across the political spectrum to address such subjects - and he has the integrity and the skills of persuasion that make him the best-qualified among the remaining Democratic hopefuls to address these challenges.

He would be a groundbreaking nominee. More to the point, he makes a solid case that he is ready to lead the whole country. We see Sen. Barack Obama as the best choice in Saturday’s Democratic primary.

Rezko-nize THIS Face?

2008-01-25T10:24:00.000-05:00

During the last Democratic debate in South Carolina, Hillary Clinton accused Barack Obama of aiding Tony Rezko "...when you were practicing law and representing your contributor ... in his slum landlord business in inner city Chicago." Although many various sources have indicated that Obama never DIRECTLY represented Rezko, the Clinton camp continues to pound at the issue, feeding it to the media.

Well, as is typically proven, that kharma is a bitch. Today, photos surface of Tony Rezko with the Clintons.

While Clinton denies knowing Rezko, it is plain and obvious that he at least had access to the Clinton White House.

I wonder if we'll see a picture of Obama and Norman Hsu appear? Somehow, I'm thinking not.

Thompson Drops From The Ledger... and Ledger Just Drops...

2008-01-22T18:47:00.000-05:00

So, Fred Thompson dropped out of the race for President today. If he hadn't announced it, I'm not sure that anyone would have noticed.

And Heath Ledger died today, found naked in an apartment with pills around him. One of my students mentioned that they heard he was found in Mary-Kate Olson's apartment.

If I was found naked in an Olson twins' apartment, I think I'd take the same path as Heath.

A Proper Remembrance?

2008-01-21T20:42:00.000-05:00

Is this REALLY the same Bill Clinton that I admired so much as a President? After hearing him talk about Obama as a "fairy tale", maybe it shouldn't surprise me to see this? Check Bill out around the 50 second mark, where he tries to cover his nod-off as a nod of agreement (please forgive the link to the New York Post... at this hour thus far, it's the only place I could find an embeddable copy of the video):

If you had a late night or something, that's fine... just call and CANCEL YOUR APPEARANCE rather than making one that embarrasses yourself, your spouse who's running for President, and millions of Americans who thought you were better than this.

Culinary Workers Endorse Obama

2008-01-09T15:32:00.000-05:00

As anticipated, both the Culinary Workers Union in Nevada and it's parent, UNITE HERE, have endorsed Barack Obama. Obama also received the endoresement of Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Nevada today.

These are HUGE victories for Obama heading into Nevada, and a serious blow to Clinton and, more critically, to Edwards. Edwards has been alligning himself with labor and to fail to receive an endorsement like this is another major disappointment.

The Culinary Workers endorsement, as well as SEIU's, guarantee a groundswell of organizers for the Nevada caucus, which is to be held in ten days. The caucus takes place during the day on the Saturday of the weekend of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. In addition, this is the first time that Nevada is holding a precinct caucus, and as such, attendance is projected to be around 45,000 - or 10% of the state's registered Democratic population.

A union membership of over 60,000 floods the odds in Obama's favor, then.... and provides organized help on the ground at a critical point.

Add to this that Obama's campaign is taking in an average of $1 million a DAY in January thus far, including $500,000 since the end of the election last night.

All in all, not bad for the day after an "alleged loss" to Clinton in New Hampshire (I'm still being snarky - technically, when it comes down to delegate counts, they tied.) - Obama heads into both Nevada and South Carolina in a very strong position.

LiveBlogging: New Hampshire Results

2008-01-09T00:07:00.000-05:00

Wow.

I'm reminded of two quotations. The first is attributed to Mark Twain:

"Rumors of my demise are greatly exaggerated."

The other is a line from Matt Damon in Good Will Hunting (although I'm sure it didn't originate in this film):

"You like apples?
How about DEM apples!"
I had rehearsal this evening, and so I didn't get back until just recently, and honestly wasn't too terribly interested in rushing home, as I was pretty damned sure that I knew what the outcome was going to be.

I'm not sure if it's the Clinton campaign that needs to be congratulated for a seemingly impossible and implausible win in New Hampshire this evening, or if it's the polling industry that needs to be trashed and told never to speak again.

Probably a hearty dose of both.

If Iowa was a remarkable and historic night for Barack Obama, then surely the same must be said of Hillary Clinton's win this evening in New Hampshire. To tell the truth, I'm not even sure that the Clinton campaign KNOWS what they did right tonight - not that they're going to argue with the results, of course.

The Clinton campaign had INTERNAL polling numbers that suggested they were going to lose by eleven points. The Obama campaign had INTERNAL numbers that suggested that they were going to win by fourteen. The Clinton campaign had been discussing whether they were going to announce changes to their campaign staff prior to the loss, or tomorrow - after the loss.

These, my friends, are not pundits speaking, or media-driven polls. These are all FACTS from within the campaigns themselves.

So, what the hell happened? I'm not even going to hazard a guess, nor do I want to listen to any of the pundits on this one in terms of their "expertise" - clearly, they KNEW that Obama was going to win tonight.

I do know this much - Hillary Clinton is a better candidate for having weathered this storm, and gaining this crucial victory. And Barack Obama is going to be a stronger candidate having this "alleged victory" taken away from him.

Earlier today (if you watched the Russert clip I posted earlier today, you already heard this), the Culinary Workers union in Nevada (the state's largest union presence) was set to announce their endorsement of Obama on Wednesday morning, which would all but hand the victory in Nevada to Obama. Tonight, that endorsement looks to be hanging neutral once more, at least until later in the week if not later.

So, while New Hampshire and Nevada seemed to be locked up this afternoon, it now appears that everything is in play once again.

If you're a political junkie/nerd like I am, then you're probably feeling the same way I am right now.... The next couple of days and weeks are going to be pretty damned amazing, given the surprising events of the last week.

And if you want to get a little snarky about it, go talk to your colleagues about it like this - Obama and Clinton realistically tied. Although Clinton took more of the popular vote, they both wind up with nine delegates a piece. So there. :)

It's New Hampshire's Turn...

2008-01-08T16:23:00.000-05:00

By now, it appears that all of the mystery has been taken out of the results of this election - at least on the Democratic side. The biggest question is not whether or not Obama will win, but by how many points. In addition, it will be interesting to see how many Independents play on the side of the Democrats, rather than the Republicans - this would have a pretty significant effect on McCain's showing today.

We'll bring results later this evening as they come in, and do some analysis and punditry as always. In the meantime, here's some talk from Russert from this morning on the topic - please ignore Joe Scarborough, who I tend to dislike, as well as the "ohhhh nooooo" woman sitting by his side.

PTF's Handmade Political Cartoons: CHANGE

2008-01-07T13:59:00.000-05:00

Globes a No-Go...

2008-01-07T13:02:00.000-05:00

First there was word that the revolution wouldn't be televised.

Now, it appears that it simply won't take place at all.

Damn. No glamorous shots of Rumer Willis handing out awards as Miss Golden Globe.

Don't let them fool you into thinking it was cancelled because of the Writer's Strike. No... we ALL know the real reason they were cancelled was the exclusion Two and A Half Men.

Damn.

Clips From The New Hampshire Debate

2008-01-07T11:38:00.000-05:00

Here, again, are reasons why I believe Clinton is going to continue her downward spiral, while Obama and Edwards are going to continue to rise... unless Clinton changes her strategy QUICKLY. Look at how flabbergasted she becomes at this moment in the debate.... almost as if to say "Didn't you get the memo?!? I'm supposed to be WINNING!"

Need more proof? Watch how the opinions sway as she speaks...

Pretty telling...

The Eve Of New Hampshire....

2008-01-07T11:16:00.000-05:00

True... it's still too early to crown a victor for the Democratic party primary race. But on this day before the New Hampshire primary, the writing is starting to appear on the wall, and I'm liking what it says:

American Research Group (based in Manchester, NH) shows Obama over Clinton by a margin of 11 percent... 39% - 28%. As was the case in Iowa, Obama is carrying the youth vote (here widely defined as 18-64), by a margin of 21%. Those 65 and over prefer Clinton by almost the same margin. What's more interesting, however, is the breakdown according to gender. Not surprisingly, Obama and Edwards both lead Clinton among male voters. Women, however, also favor Obama over Clinton - 35%-34% - while 21% lean toward Edwards. Perhaps the most important indicator of success in the general election, however, is the independent voting block. Here, Obama enjoys a 47%-25% margin over Edwards.

Rasmussen Reports shows Obama over Clinton with a ten-point lead... 38%-28%. Edwards continues to hang on, with 18%. Rasmussen points out the same signifier - Clinton and Obama are largely even among Democrats, but Obama has a 2-1 lead over Clinton among Independents.

A Gallup poll shows Obama leading New Hampshire, with a 41%-28% margin over Clinton. Edwards maintains 19% of the vote. Gallup's report points out that the biggest jump in the numbers came when Democrats were asked who "has the best chance of beating the Republican in November." In mid-December, Clinton led on this question by 21 points. Today, Obama leads in this category by 11 points. Obama went up 19 points after the Iowa win, while Clinton lost 13 points.

A couple of other random thoughts here... it's become apparent that the race is largely a two-person race, between Obama and Clinton. The next two in line, however, seemed to have alligned themselves. Edwards has clearly taken a place behind Obama's shoulder, coming down on the side of change. Richardson, meanwhile, is doing everything possible to climb inside Clinton's side pocket. It is not clear that Edwards or Richardson have a clear shot at a veep slot, but it's worth taking note.

In my opinion, here's a telling sign of where the election is heading. To combat the "message of change," Clinton has been attacking Obama by encouraging people not to be swept up by "false hopes." Yesterday, during the debate in New Hampshire, she stopped a conversation between Obama and Edwards to encourage that they get a "reality check."

Obama, on Good Morning America today, addressed Clinton very simply, stating "I mean, you can picture JFK saying, 'we can't go to the moon, it's a false hope. Let's get a reality check.' It's not, sort of, I think, what our tradition has been."

True... it's still too early to crown a victor for the Democratic party primary race. But here are a few interesting facts. In 2004, John Kerry won the Iowa caucus and New Hampshire primary, and went on to win the Democratic nomination. In 2000, Al Gore won the Iowa caucus and New Hampshire primary and went on to win the Democratic nomination. We'll see what happens in 2008 if Barack Obama wins both Iowa and New Hampshire.

LiveBlogging Iowa - Projected Winner

2008-01-03T21:27:00.000-05:00

MSNBC has just projected Barack Obama as the winner of the Iowa Democratic Caucus.

This is truly an amazing and historic night. An African-American man, named Barack Hussein Obama, has beat the "presumptive nominee," Hillary Clinton - who many believed didn't have to be elected, as much as she simply needed to be coronated by the Democratic party as their nominee.

Instead, John Edwards is currently also ahead of Clinton, and the spin about her potential third place finish in Iowa has already begun. Keep in mind that Clinton (and Obama, for that matter) MASSIVELY outspent Edwards in Iowa, and yet Edwards looks to finish in second place.

Don't lose sight, as well, that this is taking place in IOWA - not exactly a hotbed of minority representation. This, in my mind, makes the Obama victory even more spectacular.

No, this isn't the end of the game. There's a LOT to happen between now and the finish line.

But as I said earlier, it gives me hope that America has people in it who are willing to risk making a change toward the dream of taking our country back, and restoring it to its glory.

Speaking of hope, it should be noted that Mike Huckabee - from Hope, Arkansas, won the Republican primary. What a study in contrast between Barack Obama and Mike Huckabee.

LiveBlogging Iowa - Precinct 53 Caucus Results

2008-01-03T20:58:00.000-05:00

These are preliminary, but it appears that Obama beat Clinton by a HUGE margin, in terms of count. Obama had over 180 votes, and Edwards had somewhere in the neighborhood of 150 votes. Clinton came out in third place, with around 70 votes.

As such, Obama had three delegates assigned. Edwards had two delegates. Clinton had one.

A GOOD day for Obama in District 53 - and I couldn't be happier! Let's hope these results hold up throughout the state!

LiveBlogging Iowa Caucus

2008-01-03T20:46:00.000-05:00

Chances are that it'll be over before you read this, but if you get the chance, take a look at C-Span, either on TV, or you can link to live coverage here. They have cameras inside a caucus site in Iowa, and you are able to watch the process as it happens.

Maybe I'm just admitting my wonk-iness, but it's retail democracy in action. In the caucus I'm watching, Iowa Precinct 53 at the Theodore Roosevelt High School, the threshold for viability is 57 people. Richardson's group had 47. Others, like Biden's group, Dodd's group, etc. were deemed not viable, as was Richardson's. However, Richardson's people went to the other groups to try and talk them into joining forces to create viability.

You might believe it to be about as exciting as watching paint dry. You might even deem it similar to watching sausage being made.

But it's grassroots, and it's invigorating to me to see people THIS active in their own piece of the political process.

Caucus? WTF?

2008-01-03T01:12:00.000-05:00

"Umm.... thank God I never had to take Caucus in high school. I barely got through Algerbra. (insert cheesy rim shot here) "

So, if you live in Iowa, you more than likely have a good idea by now that today is the day of "The Caucus" (insert dramatic, ominous music here) - if you don't, then you've probably been living under a rock until such time as all of the politicos have left your fair, if bland, state. You've also more than likely missed out on a TON of free dinners and political swag, all of which can be sold for a fair profit on E-Bay.

For the REST of us, however, the caucus has always remained a bit of a mystery. And while I've ALWAYS believed that our ENTIRE primary system MUST be redesigned, there is something very engaging about the caucus itself - a "stand-up-and-be-counted" purity that strikes to my very grassroots core.

Whether Iowa should be viewed as representative of the United States is another issue entirely, of course.

The caucus itself really isn't as confusing as it seems, and the format is one that is very intriguing to me, relative to current polls, and how worthless they actually are in predicting an outcome in Iowa.

Here's a quick lesson in "caucus" for those of you in the dark:

If you prefer something a bit more slanted toward a specific candidate, you can't go wrong by watching the explanations by the Obama Campaign, the Clinton campaign, or the Edwards campaign.

Provided that the weather cooperates and people actually care enough to go to their respective caucus sites, there is something fascinating about people actually gathering together, discussing the issues that directly affect them and their community, and then taking a stand for the candidate of their choice. I can't think of a more transparent form of voting - at least on a local level. While precinct captains may try to lure undecideds to their corner of the room with free and discreet handjobs, I'm sure it's nothing on the level of a Diebold-ian nightmare.

The other intriguing factor in the Iowa Caucus, relative to the 2008 Election, is the notion of the "second vote."

For those who caucus for a candidate who doesn't get to around 15%, there is an opportunity to join another caucus group, in essence giving their support to their "next favorite" candidate.

So, let's think about this for a moment. Currently, you can find polls in Iowa that show Clinton, Obama, and/or Edwards all in the lead, or at least sharing a portion of it.

But surely there are those still supporting a candidate like Dennis Kucinich, as an example. Iowa would actually be a GREAT state to live in for this fact - one could actually support the candidate that they TRULY support, while still not losing their opportunity to be heard. Kucinich, following the example, certainly will not meet the threshold necessary to garner delegates. His supporters, then, are allowed to switch their allegiance and support their next candidate of choice. As a voter in a caucus system, one could actually vote once on principle, and then vote again, if necessary, based on pragmatic realism of who actually stands the best chance of winning.

I've got to believe that, given this system, Barack Obama is going to come out as the hands down winner in Iowa at the end of the day. Clinton can probably take the hit in Iowa, but if the Iowa race registers significantly on the New Hampshire radar, it could signal one of the greatest upsets in recent political history, and one that PTF has been advocating for over a year.

And that, my friends, would be the sweetest form of democracy we've seen around these parts for quite some time.

Has The Strike Been Going On THIS Long?

2008-01-02T23:38:00.000-05:00

What the hell happened to David Letterman's face? Is this an indication of how long the WGA has been striking? I'm watching Letterman this evening on the basis of the fact that Worldwide Pants was able to come to an agreement with the WGA, meaning that they're able to go back on the air with their writers in tact.... unlike some other notable late night shows.

What's also interesting was that Hillary Clinton was scheduled to be a guest, but then reduced her appearance to a single taped introduction. Meanwhile, over on Satan's Lot, Mike Huckabee crossed the picket line to appear with Leno.

It'll be interesting to see what the fallout, if any, will be.

UPDATE: Is it just me, or is Robin Williams beginning to look more and more like Charles Nelson Reilly?

An Early Christmas Gift...

2007-12-20T13:54:00.000-05:00

It looks like Tom Tancredo, who was the first official candidate to put his name on the ballot in New Hampshire, is dropping out of the race. What makes this doubly sweet is that the right-wing extremist Representative from Colorado said he wouldn't not run for a sixth term in the House of representatives.

Not only do we not have to stare down at the far end of the GOP debates and wonder who that guy at the last podium is, but we won't have to listen to this moron talking about blowing up Mecca in retaliation for future terrorist attacks, or outlawing all immigration - legal or otherwise. Hell... you know it's bad when even the National Review says "Tom Tancredo is an idiot."

Hopefully, we've heard the last of Tancredo for some time to come. Although he's whispered about the possibilities of a Senate run, I'm sure the good people of Colorado wouldn't do that to the United States.... would they?

Wait... Am I Still Dreaming?

2007-12-18T13:05:00.000-05:00

Maybe I'm still asleep? Maybe all of this has been a bad Dallas-esque dream? Maybe it still is?

First, I see that Joe Lieberman has endorsed John McCain for President in 2008? So, is Lieberman a Democrat, or an Independent, or a Reformed Democrat, or a Demopublican?

Well, I guess that's like it was before I fell asleep.

But then, I read that Hillary Clinton will be reaching out George Bush Senior (ya know... Bill's new drinking buddy) to help restore the image of America that's been so badly tarnished by George Bush, Jr.?

Before I fell asleep, I remember hearing that Americans wanted change in 2008, and yet if this keeps up, we'll have the following timeline:

1988=BUSH

1992=CLINTON

1996=CLINTON

2000=BUSH

2004=BUSH

2008=CLINTON? (with assistance from Bush?!?)

2012=CLINTON?

THIS is the CHANGE people were looking for?

I'm going to bang my head against the desk and see if I can REALLY wake up.

Did I Miss Anything?

2007-12-18T12:44:00.000-05:00

I was told that I fell asleep at the wheel, and just woke up...

Do we have a new President yet? Are they done debating? What day is today?

I woke up to find this picture plastered on the wall in front of my desk. Not sure what it means, but it COULD be sign. I'll share it with you and see if you can tell me....

Sorry about the extended snooze. I'll get back to all the PTFin fun now!

A Note To Rush...

2007-10-02T19:13:00.000-04:00

... from one of those alleged "phony soldiers":

What The Poll Shows....

2007-10-02T10:23:00.000-04:00

The results of a new Washington Post-ABC News poll were released today, and it tells us a lot that we already knew, and a lot that it seems the American public knows, but the Congressional majority has yet to figure out.

First, the things that seem obvious. President Bush is not supported by America. His approval rating of 33% ties his career low in this particular poll. 68% of Americans disapprove of Bush's handling of the war in Iraq. 57% disapprove of the way Bush is handling the U.S. campaign against terrorism. 61% disapprove of his handling of the economy. 64% disapprove of his handling of the federal budget deficit.

Old news.

Onward, to the news that Americans have been trying to tell Congress. Twenty-nine percent of Americans approve of the way Congress has been handling it's duties. That's a full four percentage points below Bush's approval rating. Although Congressional Democrats tend to fare a bit better (38%) than Republicans (29%), this is damning, all the same. Although 55% of Americans see the blame for Congressional inaction falling to the laps of President Bush and Congressional Republicans, Democrats have not been as strong as most Americans would like them to be.

Congressional Democrats were swept into power largely on the idea that America needed a new direction, and new leadership. Failing that leadership in the White House, they looked to provide it in Congress.

55% of Americans want Congressional Democrats to more strongly challenge Bush's Iraq policies - a majority.

59% of Americans do not believe that the Iraq war was worth fighting - a majority.

54% of Americans believe that troops should be brought home from Iraq - a majority.

63% of Americans believe that Congress should not fully fund the $190 billion in additional funds that Bush has once again requested - a majority.

In addition to this, there's a proposal to increase federal spending on children's health insurance by 35 billion dollars over the next five years. 72% of Americans support this increase - a majority.

Add to all of this the fact that Democrats are in the majority of both houses of Congress. In addition, Americans favor Democrats over Republicans on just about every major issue in the United States today - 49%/34% on Iraq; 56%/26% on health care; 51%/33% on the economy; 52%/29% on the deficit... in fact, the only place where the Republicans fall within the margin of error is over terrorism - 41%/40%.

Given ALL of this information, one MUST ask the question of why it is so incredibly hard for Democrats to manage any meaningful movement in Congress? They have the support of a majority of Americans. They have a seeming mandate for change. They have poll after poll stating the will of the American people.

What is it they don't have? One could argue that it's the will to change, or a spine.

Jumping Rope...

2007-10-02T10:12:00.000-04:00

When you were a kid (or a President), did you ever jump rope?

OK.... I may be sharing too much of my past with you, but on those times when I jumped rope, and missed a jump and had to step out, the big decision was always hard - when to jump back in? You have to time the swinging rope just right, so as not to be clobbered once again by the rope crashing down on your head, or tripping and falling again.... that sort of thing.

And so it has been with PTF....

Certainly there has been more than enough to talk about in the time that I've been gone, but it's been trying to find just the right moment to jump back in.

Damned that real life, which always plays a part in the decision, as well. In addition to finally completing my graduate thesis, I've been in the midst of directing a really complex production of Charles Mee's BIG LOVE, and with the beginning of the new academic calendar, as well.... well, my timing's been all off.

But, when push comes to shove, you've got to just jump. And so here I go... jumping once more into the fray.

Wise Words From Molly Ivins

2007-08-15T16:29:00.000-04:00

I still miss her, still heart her, and still find power in her words...

A List Of Movies I'll Be Watching For Free....

2007-07-30T15:05:00.000-04:00

...separated into some neat and tidy sections, as follows (I'll list them by their tag line, and you can guess and see if you know the film):

MOVIES I MISSED AND WANT TO CATCH UP ON:

* Changing the world... one word at a time.

* Do not rush to judge.

* The time to hide is over. The time to regret is gone. The time to live is now.

* Yippee Ki Yay

* Never underestimate a man with something to say.

* Musician. Humanitarian. National Threat.

* No tagline here - Iraq For Sale: The War Profiteers.

* Outfoxed

MOVIES THAT I REALLY DIDN'T WANT TO SPEND THE TIME SEEING IN THE THEATRE:

* Save the due date.

* No tagline here... it's actually a series of movies that I just wasn't that interested in... maybe I'll watch it here and try to see what all the fuss was about.

* If you think your family's different, wait 'til you meet the family of the future. (I laughed every time I saw this trailer, so I might log some time with it.)

* Philosophical therapy.

* Putting the "F" back in Freedom.

* First came love... then came Reverend Frank. (c'mon... gimme a break.. it's for freeeee...)

MOVIES THAT ARE SIMPLY TOO GREAT TO NOT WATCH AGAIN:

* How much can you know about yourself if you've never been in a fight?

* 71% of the Earth's surface is covered by water. That's a lot of space to find one fish. (Disclaimer here - I like this film, but I would only watch a little bit of it.... first and foremost because I've seen it eleventy billion times with my son already, but also because it's in Japanese with no subtitles... that's kind of why I'm listing it, though. It's fun for a few minutes, at least!)

* As a cop, he has brains, brawn, and an instinct to kill.

* Tim Burton's classic returns in 3-D so real, it's scary.

* How far would you go to become someone else?

* There's A Good Reason Some Talent Remains Undiscovered.

* Love kills.

* And now! At Last! Another film completely different from some of the other films which aren't quite the same as this one is.

* Innocence Has A Power Evil Cannot Imagine.

* Pink Floyd The Wall. Now The Film. (ok... guess that one wasn't too hard to guess...)

* Nothing Is Real.

* His whole life was a million-to-one shot.

MOVIES I WON'T EVEN WATCH FOR FREE:

* New house. New family. What could go wrong?

* Forget about who you thought you were, and just accept who you are.

* Welcome to the slammer.

* Prepare for Glory!

There are a lot of films I skipped on this list, because it didn't appear that the link was working. Take a look around and tell me about some of the gems that I might have missed!

Now I'll NEVER Leave My Computer!

2007-07-30T11:54:00.000-04:00

We take a momentary break from the political side of PTF to bring you a pop cultural gold mine.

I'm almost afraid to even blog about it and tell you about it, for fear that if too many people find out about it, it may disappear.

This morning, a friend told me about this AMAZING website... it has links to all of these great TV shows... you name it, and there's more than likely a link to it. So, if you've been jones'n for an episode of The Office at work, now you can have it.

Perhaps you prefer a couple episodes of Absolutely Fabulous to get you through your day? Say no more - here ya' go.

Hell... old episodes of The Daily Show? Sex and the City? Lost? Friday Night Lights?

I'm not going to sit here and count all of the links, but trust me... if you want it, it's more than likely here.

BUT WAIT.... there's MORE!!!

That was just the TV section.... click on the Movie Icon, and a whole new world of time-suckage explodes from your computer!

Some of the movies you might expect to find online by now are most definitely here... take, for example, Reefer Madness.... the original 1936 cult classic. Or maybe The Wizard of Oz. Or old Laurel and Hardy films.

They're are here, to be sure... but LOOK what else is here! There's this, or this, or this... or maybe you'd prefer something MUCH more recent... like THIS?!?

I'm not saying if it's right or if its wrong... I'll I'm telling you is it's all here.

Hillary Can't Win...

2007-07-28T16:42:00.000-04:00

...it's as simple as that.

The fine folks who bring you PTF will unveil a new blog shortly that will be focused on this theme, but here's a tidbit in the meantime.

I have maintained for quite some time that Democrats would be foolish to nominate Clinton as their candidate, as there is no reasonable way to anticipate that she will actually win in a General Election.

While supporters will point to the inevitablitiy of her nomination, citing any number of polls which place her ahead of her closest rivals by double-digit leads (this memo, distributed earlier in the month from Clinton's Chief Strategist, Mark Penn, states "In recent election cycles, any time a candidate has had as much as 35 or 40 percent of the vote consistently across polls in a multi-candidate field, that candidate has gone on to win the nomination. In the last race, Joseph Lieberman was in the teens at this point while Walter Mondale’s numbers in the 1984 Democratic primary were comparable to Hillary’s now...." Why he would want to compare Clinton to Mondale is beyond me)... there is something else to consider.

Two days ago, the most recent Battleground poll, a bipartisan poll sponsored by the George Washington University, put some theoretical match-ups together to see what the results would be.

Here they are:

Giuliani - 49%; Clinton - 44%
Thompson - 46%; Clinton - 46%

Obama - 52%; Giuliani - 43%
Obama - 56%; Thompson - 35%

Dive a little deeper into the data, and you find even more interesting statistics. Looking at the favorable/unfavorable ratings, we see as follows:

FAVORABLES:
Barack Obama - 59%
John Edwards - 53%
Hillary Clinton - 50%

UNFAVORABLES:
Hillary Clinton - 48% (40% of whom registered as "strongly unfavorable")
John Edwards - 35% (22% of whom registered as "strongly unfavorable")
Barack Obama - 27% (15% of whom registered as "strongly unfavorable")

Despite this information, we continue to see most media portray Hillary Clinton as the frontrunner.

Why is that? Please... feel free to leave your comments. It's not a rhetorical question. Is it simple name recognition? Is it nostalgia for the Bill Clinton Administration? Is it a conspiracy?

Leave your comments, and tell me. Because I'm not sure I get it... yet.

Obama's Response...

2007-07-28T15:49:00.000-04:00

I haven't posted about the CNN YouTube debate as of yet, mainly because I found so many interesting story lines in it, and anticipated it to be a MUCH longer posting than I had time to write this week, and so I procrastinated, and now it largely feels like yesterday's news, to a certain extent.

One point from the debate that keeps coming up is the ongoing attempt at separation between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama regarding meeting diplomatically with the leaders of countries like North Korea and Iran.

Later in the week, Clinton lashed out at Obama for agreeing to meet diplomatically with these leaders, calling Obama naive. This, despite the fact that she has personally attacked the Bush Administration for failing to engage Iran or Syria directly.

Media covered the story as though Clinton had Obama up against the ropes.

Obama, however, has done a great job at turning the words around and creating a positive out of this. Take a look at the web banner ads that Obama has purchased in Iowa and New Hampshire.

One candidate had the judgment to oppose the war from the start.
One candidate knows it's irresponsible to send troops to war without a plan to bring them home.
One candidate believes it's naïve to believe we can resolve conflicts without talking to our adversaries.

Ready for a new direction?

It's nice to see a candidate like Obama, who can speak intelligently and eloquently, and yet has the ability to defend himself when attacked.

Heir to the Hair

2007-07-27T16:22:00.000-04:00

Do you think that a lot of Republican critics of Democrats are actually closeted salon hags, who desire nothing more than to be beautiful, and get cranky whenever someone beats them to it?

I remember the big brouhaha over Bill Clinton getting his hair cut by Cristophe, and the amount of time that Republicans beat the drum about "the $200 haircut" as a way to criticize the President - long before Monica Lewinsky came around.

Well, now it seems they've got a new Main Mane to tangle with in John Edwards. Rather than talking about legitimate criticism of the Bush Administration, they want to talk about John Edwards' hair (when they're not talking about Barack Obama's name or his big ears, that is...).

I LOVE the YouTube video put together by the Edwards campiagn to retaliate against this nonsensical criticism and attempts to divert the attention of the American public. If you haven't seen it yet, you've got to watch:

Are You Experienced?

2007-07-26T13:40:00.000-04:00

(those that got the title reference to Jimi Hendrix's DEBUT album get bonus PTF Points, redeemable in the forthcoming PTF Fan Shop)

Just a quick thought here... I'm getting a little pissed about people continuing to talk about the "lack of experience" that Barack Obama has.

The alleged "frontrunner" was a former First Lady, and has served in the Senate since January, 2001. I'm not sure how that qualifies as a significant difference in experience. Obama has served since 2005, so I guess Clinton has four years on him serving as the junior Senator from New York. Wow.

John Edwards served as a one-term senator, but people don't seem to question his experience.

If you look to the Democrats who have the MOST experience (folks like Joe Biden and Chris Dodd), they're actually polling LOWEST right now.

The person who arguably has the MOST appropriate experience, Al Gore, is not running - for the moment.

I'm just wondering if "experience" is code language for another more insidious reason people might have a problem with Barack Obama.

PTF Hearts Russ Feingold

2007-07-24T20:29:00.001-04:00

It's been a long time since we here at PTF have thrown some love in the direction of one of our favorite members of the United States Senate, Russ Feingold.

But since the Democratic leadership can't seem to actually LEAD and listen to their constituents, Russ Feingold is left to do the heavy lifting and to represent any form of spine that the party has remaining.

This weekend, he showed it again by bringing forward two censure resolutions for consideration by the Senate.

Feingold has had it right the entire time on Iraq (as well as a host of other issues), and his notion that Congress must address the lawlessness of this Administration on a historical level, at the very least, is once again exactly right.

Back From My Retreat...

2007-07-22T20:29:00.000-04:00

PTF is once again tan, rested and ready to gear back up again, having spent a week at my "unofficial retreat" location. Those who know me well will sigh and ask, "what?!?.... Again?"

For those of you who don't know, this serious-minded, furrowed-brow PTFer LOVES to vacation in Walt Disney World.

I know Disney gets a bad rap. Critics will say thyat they sanitize history and reality to suit their economic means. Or that they unnecessarily push the "good triumphing over evil" storyline in their films, making an argument that all obstacles can be overcome. Or perhaps they mention that some Disney employees don't receive living wages.

I've heard it all before, and I don't turn a deaf ear to it. Disney is NOT Utopia - it IS a corporation, and a conglomerate of businesses, and not everything they do is perfect.

I'm going to be the first to admit that. I would counter, however, that Disney is AMAZING when it comes to supporting the arts (both in terms of philanthropy, as well as the practical day-to-day hiring of artists, musicians, actors, dancers and all manner of other artists). Disney has long supported the rights of the gay community (anything that pisses the Southern Baptists off makes me happy)... they take a LOT of very positive steps within their corporation every day.

But let's set even THAT aside for a moment.

The REAL reason why I vacation there has nothing to do with social activism or arts advocacy or anything like that.

It's simply this - Disney GETS it, and they do it right. Period. End of story.

If you've visited a Disney theme park for a single day, then you may not feel as strongly about it. But spend some time on the Disney property - in the hotels, in the restaurants, travelling around from theme park to theme park.

I have yet to see ANY company, large or small, make the efforts that Disney does to ensure that a visit is seamless and perfect.

So, maybe you think I rode Space Mountain 14,356 times while I was there? Guess again. On my Disney vacation, I swam in pristine pools, went boating three times over the course of the week, ate at two five-star restaurants (including a Kobe steak that was probably the most perfect thing I've ever put in my mouth!), danced at clubs, viewed evening fireworks aboard a private cruise for my family, drank too much at several clubs, saw some truly entertaining live shows... oh, and I did manage to make it to the theme parks, as well.

I've been going to Walt Disney World on a regular basis for over eleven years now (my wife and I honeymooned there), and at this point, it's almost as if I DARE them to disappoint me - but they never do.

And one of their biggest secrets? It's the Cast Members. The AMAZING Disney employees who come from all over the world to work in some capacity at Walt Disney World. Truly magnificent service in just about any possible service-oriented position.

I'm not going to drivel on and on about how magnificent Disney is at what they do (though I could).... the main point of this post was simply to say that I was on vacation, and now I'm back.

And so what if Disney creates a little "fantasyland"? Have you SEEN reality lately? It's nice to escape it every now and then.

I could probably create a whole new blog just babbling on about how great Walt Disney World is.... but I'll spare you. Feel free to babble to me if you want to gush over it, though. :)

A Christian Embarrassment

2007-07-13T00:53:00.000-04:00

I saw this today and absolutely lost my shit. Religious freedoms be damned!

There are over 700 Hindu temples and centers in the United States, and well over a million followers of the faith. Worldwide, there are over 900 million who practice Hinduism. That's over 13% of the world's population - more than one in every ten people.

And yet, as the world strains to see us as the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave, this is what they see:
Disgraceful.

HERE'S "...Cause For Optimism..."

2007-07-12T19:49:00.000-04:00

No... it's not the cause for optimism that President Bush spoke about earlier today. Here is some of what the President said today, folowed by some brief rebuttal:

"As president, my most solemn responsibility is to keep the American people safe."

According to reports out today, Al-Qaeda is reconstituted and ready to go. So, even if the President believes he's fighting "the war on terror" by fighting in Iraq, he's failing. And even though Michael Chertoff believes that terrorists are not at pre-9/11 levels, his gut is feeling otherwise.

"So on my orders, good men and women are now fighting the terrorists on the front lines in Iraq."

I would encourage you to listen to the "good men and women" who are giving you intelligence. Last I heard (as reported in the liberal-loving, terrorist-sympathizing Washington Times), Osama and the gang was hiding out along the border of Afghanistan and Pakistan - quite a distance away from Iraq.

"I believe we can succeed in Iraq...."

But according to the Initial Benchmark Assessment Report for Iraq that was released today, we have thus far only had ANY measure of success on eight out of the eighteen benchmarks. That equals 44%. Last time I checked, that percentage would earn you a big fat "F" in school. As in "FAIL."

And even in the benchmarks deemed satisfactory, there is failure. One of the benchmarks given a satisfactory mark was "Establish 'supporting political, media, economic, and services committees in support of the Baghdad Security Plan.'" While these committees have been established, the report goes on to state that “the purpose for which they were created as their contribution to date has not been adequate."

One of the benchmarks graded as satisfactory was reducing sectarian violence. The report, however, states that "...though sectarian violence has been reduced, it is not yet reduced to a level the Coalition judges acceptable."

And where are the areas where the report deemed efforts unsatisfactory? Little things. You know. Eliminating militia control over local security. Providing even-handed enforcement of the law. Supporting Iraqi security forces. That type of thing.

Where's the optimism to be found, then?

The House passed a measure today which would require the withdrawl of U.S. combat troops to being in 120 days, and to be complete by April 1, 2008. And even though the vote fell largely along party lines, and the Senate GOP is still blocking votes to change policy in Iraq, the shift is slowly taking place. Senate Republicans like Warner (R-VA), Domenici (R-NM), Snowe (R-ME), Hagel (R-NE), Smith (R-OR), Alexander (R-TN), Sununu (R-NH), Collins (R-ME), and Bennett (R-UT) are voicing various levels of dissent against the Bush Administration.

And despite the fact that it is LONG overdue, THAT is cause for optimism.

Primaries In PA...

2007-07-10T11:33:00.000-04:00

It has long baffled me why a state with as many electoral votes as Pennsylvania, which in recent elections has become a key state for candidates to win, waits until May to hold its Primary elections.

That may be changing now, as Pennsylvania mulls over whether or not to follow the tide and move the date of their Primary Elections up to February 12th - a week after the newly-forming "Super Tuesday" of February 5th.

We here at PTF have long advocated against the current process of Primaries, which allow states like Iowa and New Hampshire (clearly states that are wholly unrepresentative of the nation at large) to crown a victor in the races before the voice of the nation as a whole has been heard.

As it stands, the Pennsylvania primary results, at least for President, have been largely insignificant and meaningless. The victors of each party's nomination have usually been determined long before people of Pennsylvania weigh in.

But beyond that, it creates and reinforces the sense amongst voters that "my vote doesn't count - it won't make a difference." EVERY voter needs to feel as though their vote DOES make a difference before we'll ever see numbers at the polls increasing.

We would prefer to see a streamlined series of perhaps four primary election dates. The groupings could be organized by means of regional sections of the country, although a better method may perhaps be by size of the states. If elections were held solely by geography, it would be easy to see candidates focusing on New York in the Northeast or California in the West, while giving no attention to Rhode Island or Nevada, respectively.

With the current trend of states shifting their individual dates, this might be just the time to begin once again pondering election reform such as this.

You Know You're In Trouble When...

2007-07-08T20:23:00.000-04:00

If you're John McCain, you know you're in trouble when you have less cash on hand than Republican candidate and political blip on the radar, Ron Paul.

Wow. Who'd a thunk?

The Ever-Diminishing List Of Excuses....

2007-07-08T19:16:00.000-04:00

Republicans like to say that Clinton failed to take action on terrorists when he had the opportunity, and failed to take action against Osama Bin Laden when he had the opportunity.

Word on the street is that the Bush Administration, believe it or not, may be a little trigger-shy at points, as well. Looks like they had an opportunity to get Ayman al-Zawahri in 2005 and decided against it.

Scratch one more off the list for Republicans - they always thought they could rest on the "Clinton didn't take action against the terrorists" argument. Looks like the Bush Administration can now have the same criticism leveled at them.

And for those of you who believe that the Clinton Administration DIDN'T take action against the terrorists prior to September 11th, one might argue that you need to look at the facts:

* Republicans state that Clinton never took action against those responsible for the initial World Trade Center attack in 1993 - HOWEVER, four suspects were tried and convicted in 1994, each being sentenced to 240 years in prison. In addition, Ramzi Ahmed Yousef was captured in 1995 and was sentenced to 240 years in prison in 1997.

* Republicans state that Clinton never took action against those responsible for the attack in Riyadh in 1995. HOWEVER, the Saudi government arrested and put to death four Saudi nationals who confessed to that bombing - the Clinton Administration was denied authority to question them.

* Republicans state that Clinton never took action against those responsible for the Khobar Towers bombing in 1996. HOWEVER, once again Saudi officials took thirteen Saudis into custody and the United States was refused the ability to extradite these suspects.

* Republicans state that Clinton never took action against those responsible for the bombings at the embassies in Nairobi and Dar es Salaam in 1998. HOWEVER, four suspects with ties to Osama bin Laden were captured and sentenced to life in prison without parole.

* Republicans state that Clinton never took action against those responsible for the bombing of the USS Cole in October, 2000. HOWEVER, the FBI was never allowed to interrogate Yemeni officials, and even if they had been allowed, the chance that the investigation would have been conplete by the time Clinton left office three months later is absurd.

* Republicans state that Clinton failed to take action against Bin Laden. HOWEVER, when he DID order missle strikes against Bin Laden, Republicans such as Arlen Specter accused him of trying to divert attention away from the Monica Lewinsky scandal.

* Republicans state that Clinton ignored terrorism. HOWEVER, under the Clinton Administration, the federal budget on anti-terrorism initiatives nearly tripled to $6.7 billion dollars. Reminding you, of cousre, that this was a PRE-9/11 budget increase. And when Clinton closed Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the White House following the Oklahoma City bombing, Republicans accused him of hysteria.

Maybe Republicans and Bush supporters (are there ANY of you out there anymore?) can explain the reasoning behind Bush ignoring the report in August of 2001 stating titled "Bin Laden Determined to Strike in US" prior to the attacks on the World Trade Center?
Maybe Rudy Giuliani can explain that the next time he's out campaigning on his "All-Terrorism-All-The-Time" Platform.

Moving Onward....

2007-07-08T19:15:00.000-04:00

OK... I guess I've allowed enough time for that Lieberman story to fully resonate and sink in, so onward we march....

Lieberman, The Peacenik

2007-06-10T10:56:00.000-04:00

So, I wasn't up early enough to catch Chris Matthews and Meet The Press this morning... the French Open pushed my normal Sunday routine out of whack, and I was forced to watch CBS Face The Nation.

And what to by wondering eyes just appeared, but Joe Lieberman, the "Democrat" - and what did he say? Here it is, as follows:

LIEBERMAN: "...I think we've got to be prepared to take aggressive military actions against the Iranians to stop them.... to me, that would include a strike over the border into Iran...."

BOB SCHIEFFER: "Well, let's just stop there, because I think you probably made some news here, Senator Lieberman. You're saying that if the Iranians don't let up, that the United States should take military action?"

LIEBERMAN: "I am.... if they don't play by the rules, we've got to use our force, and to me, that would include taking military action to stop them from doing what they're doing."

Leave it to Dubya's very favorite Democrat to beat the drums of war even louder, at a time when virtually all Americans state that Iraq was a mistake.

Nice move, Lieberman.

The Joke That Wouldn't Die...

2007-05-24T15:43:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, we posted about Hillary Clinton's quest for a theme song.

Well, get ready for Hillary 2.0:

Gawsh... she sure is kewl. And sooo funny. The way she sort of just laughs off the way people make fun of her and all. Gawsh... I sure would like her to be MY President.

Should we ask her about her stance on Iraq? Naww.... we don't want to take her away from the important stuff.

I wonder how she'll vote on the Iraq spending bill? Well, I guess it doesn't matter, as long as she's having her own American Idol moment with the people.

That's what's really importnat, after all.

Strength, Intelligence and Eloquence

2007-05-24T14:49:00.000-04:00

Traits that are missing from all sides of the playing field in Washington these days.

I had been searching for the right words to put together how I felt about the Democratic leadership and their "compromise" for the Iraq spending bill.

Last night, Keith Olbermann summed it up brilliantly:

Anyone who believes that Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid are capable of successfully ending this war and leading the Democratic party to victory in 2008 should consider having their heads examined.

The handling of this war is beginning to take on a lunacy that Kurt Vonnegut, Joseph Heller, George Orwell or Richard Hooker never could have imagined.

To an extent, this is what we've come to expect from the Bush Administration. It's their legacy, and it is what they will be branded with throughout history.

But the Democrats were charged with VERY specific mandates - for CHANGE.

And now look at them.

And for those of you who think that the Presidential election in 2008 is a slam-dunk for the Democrats, think again.

Who will have the courage... the bravery... the intelligence... and the eloquence to actually LEAD this country?

Ahead Of Our Time?

2007-05-23T14:41:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago, I was asked to appear on a Political Roundtable discussing the current state of Presidential Politics as we head toward 2008 - if you haven't caught the discussion on Radio Allegro, you should definitely check it out!

One of the lighter moments during our show was a discussion of possible theme songs for all of the candidates - I pointed out at that time that Hillary Clinton had been using Bachman Turner Overdrive's classic "You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet", which I found very ironic, as it contains the lyrics:

He said that any love is good love
So I took what I could get, yes, I took what I could get...

Funny stuff, indeed.

Well, since then, my colleague over at Brilliant at Breakfast pointed out that Hillary is, in fact, looking for a NEW theme song. Check out the YouTube here, and if you haven't read Jill's fabulous blog, check out Brilliant at Breakfast.

We thought it was funny and left it at that. Obviously, so did a lot of YouTube people, who were more than happy to help with their suggestions.

But this past Sunday, Chris Matthews decided to pick up the ball (and OUR bit) and run with it, as well:

MATTHEWS: Well, before we go to break, a lighter moment here. Hillary Clinton is choosing her campaign song right now, she says, and she's asking
for our suggestion.

Senator HILLARY CLINTON: (From Web video) It's something we've been struggling with, debating, agonizing over for months. So now I'm turning to you, the American people. Here's the issue: What do you think our campaign song should be?

MATTHEWS: Her Web site lists 10 tunes to choose from. But rather buy into her multiple choice, we've gathered some tunes of our own with a bit more bite. For instance, this gets right to the Hillary's la difference in this campaign.

(Clip of Tom Jones' "She's a Lady")

MATTHEWS: Is that a piece of lint?

Or how about this one that hints at what she might do to her Republican rivals?

(Clip of Nancy Sinatra's "These Boots are Made for Walkin'")

MATTHEWS: I, of course, like this one that we're going to show right now, which plays up her biggest campaign asset.

(Clip of The Angels' "My Boyfriend's Back")

MATTHEWS: That song is so fraught with possible meanings. Katty Kay, do you have an idea for what will spruce up this campaign with the right lyrics and tune?

Ms. KAY: I would say that one that is not going to be is "Stand By Your Man."

MATTHEWS: Oh, gosh.

Ms. KAY: But perhaps how about "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun"?

MATTHEWS: Huh.

Ms. MITCHELL: How about "I Am Woman, Hear Me Roar"?

MATTHEWS: Oh, a little feminist front line action there. David?

Mr. BROOKS: I was starting with "Evita," then "Maneater."

Ms. MITCHELL: Oh!

Ms. KAY: Ooh!

Mr. BROOKS: But then I think she should go for just "Jesus Christ Superstar," just do the whole thing.

MATTHEWS: Oh, my God.

Bob, do you have a thought here?

Mr. WOODWARD: I think the person who suggested in the campaign that she do this is going to be fired by next week.

MATTHEWS: There was a grating aspect to this.

Well, I guess all is fair... we stole his "Tell Me Something I don't Know" bit for the end of our show, so we'll call it a journalistic exchange of sorts.

Nice to see Matthews looking to Radio Allegro for inspiration, though.

Chris Who...?

2007-05-23T14:22:00.000-04:00

It seems I've been seeing a lot of this older gentleman with the white hair lately (he's pictured here... on the left) on some pretty big shows lately. Last Friday, he was on Real Time with Bill Maher.

And as if that wasn't enough to satisfy his fifteen minutes of fame, this past Sunday he was on Meet The Press (not to be confused with the other white haired gentleman whom he was debating, Newt Gingrich).

Who does this guy think he IS, anyway? From the looks of it, you'd think he was running for President or something!

Yet Another Sign Of The Apocalypse

2007-05-20T12:36:00.000-04:00

As if we aren't reminded on an almost-daily basis of the impending doom of the world around us, then there comes something that just slaps you in the face.

Fox News reviewed Michael Moore's latest film, Sicko. They called it "...brilliant and uplifting...." Albeit, the review is not exhaustive, and it tends to focus a bit more on the stir surrounding the filmmaker and his trip to Cuba than it does on the film itself.

But c'mon.... when the GOP's Public Enemy #1 is praised by Fox News... that can't be good... can it?

PTF Joins With Radio Allegro!

2007-05-16T17:03:00.000-04:00

I know, I know.... for too long now, you've been reading the commentary of your faithful FleshPresser, but secretly wondering "does he speak as remarkably as he writes?"

Well, maybe not.

But regardless, now's your chance to check out the smooth sounds of your favorite FleshPresser!

Pressing The Flesh is honored and thrilled to join with the team at Radio Allegro - if you haven't checked them out yet, you MUST do so this instant!

I'll be providing political commentary, along with some pop cultural asides and.. hell, anything else they ask for - it's really a TOP-NOTCH production, and I'm thrilled to be invited to join Team Radio Allegro.

Check out all of their features, but I'd like to point you in particular to my first show, entitled SWIFTBOAT THIS - an analysis of Presidential Politics for '08. Hosted by my mentor over at Modern Fabulousity, and also featuring the wit and wisdom of Brilliant at Breakfast, this show will give you a primer for Presidential politics as the race of '08 heats up!

So, take a listen, and let me know what you think!

PTF is Back, and Even Better!

2007-05-16T17:01:00.000-04:00

Some new features, some more regular posts, and a few added surprises along the way... welcome back to PRESSING THE FLESH!

So It Goes....

2007-04-13T13:23:00.000-04:00

America lost a great literary voice yesterday with the death of Kurt Vonnegut. Those of you familiar with Billy Pilgrim, Tralfamadore, and Kilgore Trout will know of what I speak.

As a theatre artist, I find myself often jealous of those who create more permanent work. While theatre comes and goes, there are those forms of art like painting, or film, or novels, which exist in one form or another beyond their creation.

Vonnegut's work will surely exist and thrive well beyond the mere end of his physical existence. And if we're to think that Vonnegut believed any of what he wrote, it's calming to think he saw it coming.

Apologies....

2007-04-13T13:22:00.000-04:00

It seems I fall off the radar screen every so often, but this time it's at least somewhat legitimate, as we are in the process of boxing up and moving PTF headquarters. Not a geographically significant move, but a move nonetheless.

We'll be back, and please accept the apologies. No need to adjust your sets.

Radio-Television Correspondents' Dinner Highlights: MC Rove

2007-03-29T12:43:00.000-04:00

I wish that this was a joke.

I wish I didn't have to see Brad Sherwood and Colin Mochrie of Whose Line Is It Anyway talking to Karl Rove.

I wish I didn't have to watch Karl Rove painfully struggling to be funny.

I really wish I didn't have to watch David Gregory strutting behind Karl Rove, pretending that all's well in the world - that he actually likes Karl Rove, and that that whole "politics" thing they both do is really just an act for the cameras.

But since I had to see it, I'm now forcing you to view it, too.

Is it just me, or is there an Oscar night quality to these Dinners? Whenever I watch this stuff on C-SPAN, it always strikes me that the politicians are just playing "characters," and that on nights like these, they all get together to share a big belly laugh about it all.

You Choose....

2007-03-19T00:05:00.000-04:00

First, check out the beginning of our series, Fleshing Them Out, and our profile of Hillary Clinton. Then, feel free to vote for the next candidate we cover. If your candidate's name isn't specifically listed on the survey, just drop the name in the comments.

It may be 596 days until the 2008 Elections, but it's never too early to get into the habit of voting!

UPDATE: Thanks to my friend and mentor at Modern Fabulousity for getting me ontrack with the world of online surveys. I finally found a GREAT template at Vizu - highly recommended!

Get Free Opinion Polls

Reprise For My Birthday...

2007-03-14T10:37:00.000-04:00

Yup... today's the lucky day for me... and in honor of my own birthday, I am re-posting one of my favorite posts... from last year around this time. Enjoy!

As it turns out, March 14th is quite a remarkable day, with an incredibly diverse range of events and holidays taking place.

On the one hand, today is Pi Day. In the basement of science buildings everywhere, "pi enthusiasts" gather together to contemplate just how special the numerical representation of pi is - 3.14... and how troubled their lives would be without pi. If you care to celebrate, try to hold off until 1:59PM, which is the traditional moment that the festivites begin.

On the other hand, today is Steak and Blowjob Day. This day was created as an alternative to Valentine's Day. Why wasn't I informed about this sooner?!?

You know, using a pretty complex mathmatical equation, with an alternate value for pi, I can calculate that Steak and Blowjob Day + Birthday = New York Strip, Oral Sex, AND CAKE!!! What could be better???

For fans of Pi Day, it should be noted that today is Albert Einstein's birthday. For fans of Steak and Blowjob Day, it should be noted that today is also Catherine Dent's birthday. OK, so Catherine Dent is a stretch... but better her than Rick Dees, also born on this day, right? Catherine Dent was pretty wonderful in 21 Grams, right?

For all you conspiracy theorists, it should be noted that on this day in 1964, A jury in Dallas, Texas finds Jack Ruby guilty of killing John F. Kennedy assassin Lee Harvey Oswald. Exactly three years later, The body of President John F. Kennedy is moved to a permanent burial place at Arlington National Cemetery.

Coincidence? I think not!

OK... all this being said, I may not get a steak and a blowjob today, but I suppose I'd settle for a hamburger and a smooch?

Fleshing Them Out '08: Hillary Clinton

2007-03-13T21:58:00.000-04:00

Let's face it... unless Al Gore tries to parlay his Oscar win into another bid for the While House, or someone like Mark Warner reconsiders his decision against running, there are currently three Top Dogs running in the Democratic Party for the White House. They are (in alphabetical order) Hillary Clinton, John Edwards, and Barack Obama.

Hillary Clinton seems inextricably tied to her husband, President Bill Clinton. For our purposes, we are going to try and analyze Hillary as an individual, a Senator, and a Presidential candidate.

For purposes of analysis, we will be using the most recent poll of American public opinion - A CBS/New York Times poll taken between March 7-11, 2007. According to this poll, Americans are most concerned about the following issues:

War in Iraq - 29%
Economy/Jobs - 8%
Health Care - 8%
Immigration - 5%
Education - 5%

Hillary Clinton will be 60 years old as of October 26th. She went to Wellesley College, and obtained her degree in Law from Yale in 1973. Prior to her marriage to Bill Clinton, she served as a staff attorney for the Children's Defense Fund, and later as one of only two women lawyers on the staff of the House Judiciary Committee during the term of Richard Nixon.

Following her husband's terms as Arkansas Governor and President, she was elected as a member of the United States Senate, where she has served since 2001. She currently serves on the Armed Services Committee, the Environment and Public Works Committee, the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, and the Special Committee on Aging.

Hillary Clinton is probably the best known of the Democratic candidates, for better or worse. She has played the role of a unifier within the Democratic party, and also represents of the most polarizing figures in contemporary American politics. If money were the name of the game, she'd be the Democratic nominee - hands down.

Her website is very polished and looks very nice, but it is VERY difficult to find any substance on this site, relative to where she stands on the issues. The closest we find to a page on the issues is a Newsroom Page, which lists various statements that she has made, but doesn't clearly state her stand on a variety of issues.

This is a HUGE problem, for a number of reasons. As we'll see further into this series, a majority of the other candidates clearly have a page dedicated to their positions and issues of importance (though they're not always so clear... remind me to ask Joe Biden how Afghanstan and Darfur wind up as related issues).

But beyond this is the fact that if Clinton doesn't clearly define her positions, she allows others to do that for her.

A visit to her Senate web site clears up much of the mystery, but at the very least, this information should be transferred onto her campaign web site. I had to look f-a-r too long for this information - the average voter probably won't even look... let alone taking any significant time to look.

IRAQ: On February 17, 2007, Hillary Clinton introduced the Clinton Plan To End War. She calls for an end to President Bush's escalation, capping troop levels at Jan. 1. 2007 levels. She calls for a phased redelpoyment of troops within 90 days, or a new Congressional authorization for the use of force would be necessary. The plan also calls for certain benchmarks to be met by the Iraq government, or else face a loss of funding for the military and reconstrction efforts in Iraq.

ECONOMY/JOBS: Clinton's economy page focuses primarily on state and local economic issues. After some digging, I was able to find these remarks presented to the Economic Club of Chicago in April, 2006:

I suggest that we agree on the need for an economic strategy that keeps our economy growing and creating good jobs in the face of new competition. And that we strengthen the middle class, which is, after all, the engine of our growth and the backbone of our democracy.... Now, the shape of the American economy depends a lot on where you're sitting and where you're looking. The stock market is at historic highs. But so are the budget deficits and the national debt.... Productivity is growing. But spending on research is decreasing and wages have fallen over the last four years on average.... We need, therefore, a real national discussion about how to do again in this new century what America has always done best: promote innovation, create the new jobs of the future -- including manufacturing jobs, get back to our "can do" spirit that really is the fuel for the free enterprise economy and make strategic investments in both the public and the private sector that will help us not only grow the economy but secure the values that define who we are as Americans.... Tax cuts alone can't secure the middle class. They are not the cure all for everything that ails the American economy. It takes the right tax system and the right investments, including infrastructure. And right now we don't have either. We need investments, decisions and policies that only all of us acting together through our government can make to set the stage for future prosperity.... Now I would start, for example, by updating both our virtual and our physical infrastructure. I think that it's imperative that we look at how we've been living off the investments of decades ago, people who build the interstate highway system, the bridges, the tunnels, the rail systems and so much else.... The way to reduce our oil addiction is through technology, and we need a much more aggressive strategy.... I think we need a major energy research program similar to what President Eisenhower did after Sputnik went up because we are suffering through what might be called -- and some have -- silent Sputnik. And the energy issue is one of those.... Now, government can't do this alone. We need this public and private sector partnership. And businesses can do much more. I think our oil companies have to be part of the solution, not part of the problem. And I propose that we ask that they invest more in alternative energy or contribute a percentage of these extraordinary profits, which are due in part to the subsidies they still get when the price of oil keeps going up.... Over the long-term and maybe the median term, red ink fiscal policies will undermine America's competitiveness. We have to ask ourselves whether our taxing and spending policies are in line with our economic goals. Do we have the right priorities and values in the federal budget?... Nineteen years ago, a Republican gave a speech about deficits which I think rings true today. He said close the deficit and lock economic expansion in place for the years ahead or return to the days of inflation and stagnation.... We must answer the call to action now if we are to preserve and protect our economic expansion. The answer is clear; get on and stay on the road of declining deficits. The speaker? President Ronald Reagan.

HEALTH CARE: Clinton has called universal health care coverage "not only a moral and health imperative, but an economic and jobs imperative as well." Other key votes on health issues include her support for the Medicaid Generic Drug Amendment, as well as the Greater Access to Affordable Pharmaceuticals Act.

IMMIGRATION: Clinton voted in support of the Immigration Reform Bill in May, 2006 - a bill which increased border security and enforcement laws, established criteria for U.S. citizenship, and provided financial assistance programs for areas of immigration. Clinton also voted in support of the Secure Fence Act of 2006, a bill that authorized the construction of an additional 700 miles of double-layered fencing between the U.S. and Mexico and granted the Secretary of Homeland Security authority to take necessary steps to stop unlawful entry of undocumented immigrants into the U.S.

EDUCATION: Clinton supports expanding access to Head Start for pre-school-aged children. She supports increasing the skills and salaries of Head Start teachers. While she supports No Child Left Behind, she criticizes President Bush efforts to remove significant funding for the program. She was an original co-sponsor of America's Better Classrooms Act, which would ensure school modernization needs. She supports efforts to double the maximum Hope Scholarship Tax Credit to $3,000, and make it available for four years of college instead of the current two years. She supports efforts to enable the over five million borrowers with consolidated loans to refinance their loans, just as they would refinance their home mortgage to take advantage of lower interest rates and eliminate origination fees on subsidized loans.

Below are a few links to further information about Hillary Clinton:

Official Campaign Website
Senate Web Site
VoteHillary.Org
Hillary Clinton MySpace Page
Hillary Clinton on YouTube
Molly Ivins: I Will Not Support Hillary Clinton For President

Anyone Remember Alice's Restaurant?

2007-03-13T12:52:00.000-04:00

There's a portion of the lyrics in Arlo Guthrie's classic epic song, Alice's Restaurant (if you haven't listened to it lately, you should - it's good for the soul), and it goes something like this:

I went over to the sargent, said, "Sargeant, you got a lot a damn gall to ask me if I've rehabilitated myself, I mean, I mean, I mean that just, I'm sittin' here on the bench, I mean I'm sittin here on the Group W bench 'cause you want to know if I'm moral enough join the army, burn women, kids, houses and villages after bein' a litterbug."

And then there's the Chairman of the U.S. Military Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Peter Pace. Here's what he said:

I believe homosexual acts between two individuals are immoral and that we should not condone immoral acts.... I do not believe the United States is well served by a policy that says it is okay to be immoral in any way.... As an individual, I would not want (acceptance of gay behavior) to be our policy, just like I would not want it to be our policy that if we were to find out that so-and-so was sleeping with somebody else's wife, that we would just look the other way, which we do not. We prosecute that kind of immoral behavior.

We'll just sidestep the issue of the hypocrisy here, where we could point out things like this:

estimates are that somewhere between 22% and 60% of men and 14% and 40% of women have been unfaithful. Apply those figures to the 1.4 million people who are in active military service -- about 60% of whom are married -- and you have to wonder why only 60 or so service members have been prosecuted for adultery in the last two years.... Clearly, the military doesn't make much of an attempt to enforce the rule, probably because to do so would lead inevitably to its repeal.... In the 1950s, the military established health inspections of prostitutes in Okinawa to protect American servicemen from venereal disease. Brothels that were given an "A" designation, as in "approved," offered clean women.... U.S. military in South Korea was providing patrols at brothels to ensure the safety of the GIs inside. The women of these establishments were often Russians and Filipinos who had been promised good jobs in South Korea, then forced into prostitution. But rather than assist the women, our military chose to protect the R & R of its guys.

Yes... let's just skip past that and ask a simpler question. Are you really going to question the morality of homosexuality in an era of Abu Ghraib, waterboarding, civilian casualties, and the general expiration of life that comes as a direct result of war? Really?!?

Fleshing Them Out '08: A Preview

2007-03-12T13:22:00.000-04:00

I know, I know... most of the country is fixated on March Madness this week, and the bracketology of the final 64 invited to the NCAA Tournament.

But today will begin an ongoing series here at PTF - an opportunity for you to find out a little bit more about the individuals claiming to be worthy of running our country by serving as President of the United States.

We're going to try and cover Democrats and Republicans, as well as some Independents - we'll cover the majors, as well as the mid-pack players, and possibly a few that you've never even heard of before.

It's a major undertaking, to be sure. But if all goes well, maybe we'll all be placed in a better position to put all of these Presidential candidates into our own bracket, and see who comes out victorious.

Onward, then.... let's get to FLESHING THEM OUT '08!!

CPAC... The Story Beyond The Bitch

2007-03-09T13:15:00.000-05:00

OK... so everyone's covered the CPAC story, and followed Coulter's hideous comments and the fallout, which is probably what Coulter wanted in the first place.

Max Blumenthal, however, is one of the few to actually cover CPAC beyond Ann Coulter. What he uncovers is the simple fact that Coulter is not the only dispicable person claiming to represent the Republican party. Take a look at his report:

These reports alone stand as enough reason for each of us to renew our subscription to The Nation, or to pick up one if you haven't already done so.

The N-Word...

2007-03-09T00:09:00.000-05:00

I don't log a lot of time watching South Park, but I just saw the beginning of this episode, and fell off my chair. Of course, all it took was a quick search on YouTube to be able to share the beginning of the episode with you:

After seeing this, I was reminded of another video I recently saw. I coach a forensic speech team, and I was looking for a good example of an After Dinner Speech for a student who had never seen one before.

What I found was not only a great example of an oral presentation, but it also serves as a fantastic commentary on the use of "The N Word."

Take a look at the video, and feel free to post a response in the comments section.

An Apple A Day...

2007-03-06T22:04:00.001-05:00

As a precursor to a new feature we'll be running here at PTF, focused on fleshing out the details of all of the major (AND minor) candidates for '08, I found this GREAT YouTube ad for Barack Obama.

For those of you old enough to remember the Apple ad campaign, you'll dig it almost as much as the first time you saw the ad run. For those who are younger, it's simply a take-off on a great ad. Enjoy....

Don't Blame The Sun

2007-03-06T20:46:00.000-05:00

I was looking at our local weather forecast online, to see when the air would finally warm back up to human standards, and thought it was funny to find this:

Windy and bitterly cold with ineffective sunshine

Ineffective?!? That's a first. Looks like the meteorologist was trying to add some commentary to the forecast.

Satan Thwarted Once Again In Reclaiming Cheney

2007-03-05T16:39:00.000-05:00

As much as Hell wants him back, doctors still keep managing to allow Cheney to hang on to his mortality. This time, a blood clot was found in his leg. This could have wrecked havoc with his animatronic heart, but was found before it had a chance to effectively deliver the soul of Cheney back to his rightful owner, Satan.

Republicans Blocking The Vote

2007-02-13T13:38:00.000-05:00

While others encourage us to Rock The Vote, why is it that Congress is afraid to simply vote on where they stand relative to the Bush Administration's plan to escalate the war in Iraq?

If you support the President, have the courage to go on the record as such. If not, then get out of the way and vacate the seat for someone else who will actually take a position.

US and North Korea Reach Agreement

2007-02-13T13:24:00.000-05:00

North Korea has agreed to shut down its nuclear reactors within sixty days and to dismantle its atomic weapons program in exchange for fuel aid.

And how was it reached, you might ask? Through diplomacy. Pressing The Flesh, as it were. Not through threats. Not through violence. Not through threats of violence.

Hmmm.... diplomacy. An interesting concept. It's not easy, and it's not always pretty. But disputes are rarely, if ever, solved entirely through the use of force. Eventually, it always comes down to diplomacy.

PTF - Broken News: Anna Nicole Smith

2007-02-08T17:11:00.000-05:00

I hesitate to post this, as there are MANY more stories worth talking about right now, but the name of the blog IS "Pressing The FLESH"... and, well.... she had a lot of it.

Anna Nicole Smith died today. You can read all the details for yourself.

Brief and Personal

2007-02-07T18:44:00.000-05:00

While I just said in an earlier post that I wouldn't go too personal with my new postings, I had a request from one of my favorite West Coast readers/commenters to include just a little bit of info., and so I wanted to include a brief glimpse.

As many of you know, I teach theatre at a college here on the East Coast, and in addition to my free-lance work, I direct two productions a year here.

The current show I'm working on is a musical entitled SIX WOMEN WITH BRAIN DEATH, or EXPIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW.

Yes, it's crazy. Yes, it's got to be seen to be believed. If you want more information about it, feel free to visit my other blog, The World Of Brain Death, which is charting our process/progress through the production. And if you happen to be in the neighborhood, please feel free to let me know, and I'll make sure to get you in to see the show!

The other request I had was to post some photos of the young 'uns.... here they are:

If you've got a request, feel free to request away!

If He Keeps This Up, No One WIll Want Him....

2007-02-06T16:41:00.000-05:00

Lieberman swears that he will side more often than not with Democrats, and yet if he keeps this up, Democrats won't want him, and neither will the Republicans.

Today, Lieberman proposed that Congress should consider an additional tax to fund the war on terrorism. According to the Reuters article, Lieberman is quoted as stating:

"When you put together the (Pentagon) budget and the Homeland Security budgets, we need to ask people to help us in a way that they know when they pay more it will go for their security,"

Maybe this could be considered as an "elective tax" for those who want to find a way to funnel more of their money into the war effort.

Three things are clear, however: most Americans didn't receive any real form of tax relief from Bush's cherished tax cuts to begin with - those cuts only rewarded those with the highest incomes.

Secondly, a vast majority of Americans don't support the Bush Administration's handling of the war effort to begin with - and certainly aren't going to jump at the chance to have more money siphoned away toward the failed plan.

Third, if Lieberman continues like this, he will find that neither Democrats nor Republicans will be welcoming him. Dems obviously don't like his stance on his support for Bush. I'm sure Republicans won't like his fancy new idea about creating new taxes.

Molly Ivins

2007-02-01T16:55:00.000-05:00

Regular readers of PTF will know the love affair that I had/have for Molly Ivins. I was devastated, then, to hear that Molly lost her battle with breast cancer yesterday. She was 62.

Her sharp sense of humor, as well as her dead-on political analysis, will be missed by millions of her devoted readers.

I lost my mother to breast cancer, and have another very close friend who is fighting (and winning) her battle with breast cancer.

If you ever enjoyed the writing or insight of Molly Ivins, consider making a small donation to the Susan G. Komen Foundation in her honor today.

BREAKING NEWS: Bush Lied... Again.

2007-02-01T14:31:00.000-05:00

Bush orders 20,000 troops in his plan for the "surge"? A plan that met with sketicism at best, and bipartisan rejection in reality.

Well, today a CBO Report was leaked that showed the number growing to as many as 48,000 troops. In addition, while Bush requested $5.6 billion to pay for his miserable plan, CBO reports that the "surge" will cost anywhere between $9 and $13 billion dollars... and that's if the deployment lasts for four months. If they are there for a year, the number skyrockets to somewhere between $20 and $27 billion dollars.

Is anyone surprised?

UPDATE: Casey says that only half the troops Bush requested would be necessary to complete the mission.

PTF Re-Boot

2007-02-01T14:20:00.000-05:00

Personal life sometimes interferes with passion for blogging, and rather than go into the gory details (this is, after all, a largely non-personal-life-based blog... we all know there are more of those in the blogosphere than we actually need), suffice to say that your humble FleshPresser is back.

In an effort to make PTF a bit more user-friendly for you - kind reader - as well as to allow me the opportunity to regularly post, I'm going to try a new, briefer format with links for you to read the stories and accessing the information that I am.

I'll still write my longer-form commentary from time to time, but this will allow us all to keep in touch on a more regular basis.

I encourage the longer form of commentary/debate/exchange of ideas to take place within the comments area of PTF.

But after all, sometimes Pressing The Flesh is as simple as a brief handshake or a knowing glance from across the room... right?

Even Better Google Search

2007-01-12T20:41:00.000-05:00

If you want even MORE fun with Google, take a look at this.

Democrats Quick On Action

2007-01-12T10:24:00.000-05:00

House and Senate Democrats have pledged a welcome flurry of progress in their first days leading Congress. Included as priorities:

1. Ethics reform, to clean up Congress so the government can get back to serving the American people.

2. Raising the minimum wage, to give millions of American families an opportunity to achieve the American Dream.

3. Medicare Prescription Drug program reform, to save seniors, the disabled, and American taxpayers money.

4. Acting on the 9/11 Commission Recommendations, to fully secure our ports and borders and ensure that our first responders have the resources they need to keep America safe.

5. Funding stem cell research, to open the promise of life-saving cures and treatments.

6. Energy reform, to address global warming and put America on a path to energy independence.

7. Easing the financial burden of college tuition, to increase accessibility for hardworking students and their families.

8. Strengthening and rebuilding America's military, to ensure the American people get the real security they deserve.

9. Comprehensive immigration reform, to fix America's broken immigration system.

10. Pay-as-you-go legislation, so that Congress has to cover its costs just like American families do.

Action has already taken place on a minimum wage increase, 9/11 Commission Recommendations, and funding for stem cell research. Votes on a mandate for the Federal Government to negotiate with pharmaceutical companies as a part of the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan is expected on Friday. A cut on interest rates of student loans is anticipated by next Wednesday.

Critics have argued that these are the "easy" issues - widely supported by the public and not facing strong opposition.

I would simply ask this - if these issues are so easy, then why weren't they passed when Republicans were leading Congress?

I am pleased to FINALLY see progress taking place in the halls of Congress.

How Do You Spell Failure?

2007-01-11T20:04:00.000-05:00

Type "failure" into Google and see what pops up.

Hat Tip to AMP.

Why Not Give Bush The Benefit Of The Doubt?

2007-01-11T00:34:00.000-05:00

Tonight, Keith Olbermann, as he so frequently does, succintly put together the case as to why the President LONG AGO lost ANY credibility he might have in presenting ANY case for future plans in Iraq. Here is the transcript from Olbermann:

Any meaningful assessment of the president's next step in Iraq must consider his steps and missteps so far.

So, let's look at the record:

Before Mr. Bush was elected, he said he was no nation-builder; nation-building was wrong for America.

Now, he says it is vital for America.

He said he would never put U.S. troops under foreign control. Today, U.S. troops observe Iraqi restrictions.

He told us about WMDs. Mobile labs. Secret sources. Aluminum tubing. Yellow-cake.

He has told us the war is necessary…Because Saddam was a threat; Because of 9/11; Osama bin Laden; al Qaeda; Because of terrorism in general; To liberate Iraq; To spread freedom; To spread democracy; To keep the oil out of the hands of terrorist-controlled states; Because this was a guy who tried to kill his dad.

In pushing for and prosecuting this war, he passed on chances to get Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, Muqtada al-Sadr, Osama bin Laden.

He sent in fewer troops than recommended. He disbanded the Iraqi Army, and "de-Baathified" the government. He short-changed Iraqi training.

He did not plan for widespread looting, nor the explosion of sectarian violence.

He sent in troops without life-saving equipment.

Gave jobs to foreign contractors, not the Iraqis.

Staffed U.S. positions there based on partisanship, not professionalism.

We learned that "America had prevailed", "Mission Accomplished", the resistance was in its "last throes".

He has said more troops were not necessary, and more troops are necessary, and that it's up to the generals, and removed some of the generals who said more troops would be necessary.

He told us of turning points: The fall of Baghdad, the death of Uday and Qusay, the capture of Saddam, a provisional government,the trial of Saddam, a charter, a constitution, an Iraqi government, elections, purple fingers, a new government, the death of Saddam.

We would be greeted as liberators, with flowers.

As they stood up–we would stand down, we would stay the course, we would never 'stay the course',

The enemy was al Qaeda, was foreigners, terrorists, Baathists.

The war would pay for itself, it would cost 1-point-7 billion dollars, 100 billion, 400 billion, half a trillion dollars.

And after all of that, today it is his credibility versus that of generals, diplomats, allies, Republicans, Democrats, the Iraq Study Group, past presidents, voters last November, and the majority of the American people.

So, tell me again why I'm supposed to give this President the benefit of the doubt on this new plan that essentially rejects the findings of the bipartisan Iraq Study Group and military experts?

An Alternative To The Presidential Address This Evening

2007-01-10T18:24:00.000-05:00

If you want to know more about the Presiden't new plan, but you simply don't want to watch the Address this evening, feel free to enjoy this Blackadder video, and pay particular attention to the point about two minutes into the clip - you'll get essentially the same message:

Hat Tip to AmericaBlog.

The Hard Run And The Hardware

2007-01-07T22:52:00.000-05:00

There are those who don't understand running.... they have no concept of why someone would voluntarily run someplace where there was ANY form of alternative transportation available. I'm not sure that I can fully explain it - there's a discipline to it that I enjoy, a huge ability to relieve stress and find a mental balance as your body moves onward, and a challenge in pushing myself farther and farther - it's an adrenaline rush for me, to be sure.

Today I successfully completed my Goofy Challenge at the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, by running the marathon. That, combined with the half-marathon from yesterday, equalled a total of 39.3 miles.

Once again, today was a scorcher. There was good news and bad news. The good news is that, for an hour or so after the sun rose, there was a thick fog, which kept the sun from beating down on us. The bad news was that the fog burnt off. The sun and the heat was relentless today - I watched people dropping around me from dehydration or heat exhaustion.

I tempered my run accordingly. You can almost exactly see where the fog lifted, and the sun began its assault:

* Five-mile mark - 59:42 (just about a twelve minute mile)
* Ten-mile mark - 2:02:37 (again, roughly a twelve minute mile)
* Half - 2:46:49 (a few minutes off my time from yesterday, but given I had run 13 miles yesterday, not a big deal at all.... watch what happens next....)
* Twnety-mile mark - 4:36:10 (that's right... almost a full two hours to complete the next seven miles...and it gets better....)
* Finish Line - 6:22:04 (again, almost another two hours... this time to finish the last 10K)

It's pretty staggering to think that I ran long enough to sit through about three or four movies. But when you ask why I do it, I'll tell you this - I had a shirt made up to race in.... amongst other things, it said "If you believe, clap your hands!" Getting to mile 24 and beyond, with MONSTER blisters on the soles of my feet, and no shade to be found, with legs beginnignt o cramp up - in the midst of ALL of that discomfort, it is literally staggering to continue to run and hear crowds of people on the sides of the course cheering your name, clapping, and yelling "I believe!" It sounds cheesy, but it's pretty damned intoxicating.

I finished my goal, which was to complete the marathon today, and to complete the Goofy Challenge. I am amazingly proud of what I've accomplished. And a little stumped as to what I should challenge myself with next... any thoughts?

One Down, and One To Go!

2007-01-06T18:50:00.000-05:00

So, the key word for today was HEAT!!! The last time I ran down here (two years ago), it was in the mid-30s when we approached the starting line 4:00AM, and by the time the race was complete, it had moderated to the mid 50s.... awful waiting around weather, but GREAT running weather.

Well, today, at 3:30AM, it was 68 degrees, and nearly 90% humidity. It was GREAT waiting around for the race to begin weather - VERY comfy - but NASTY racing weather. It was in the mid 80s by the completion of the race.

Everybody's times suffered a bit as a result, and by hopes of running the half in under two hours were pretty much shot by mile 8. The only nice thing is that a breeze began to pick up and it remained overcast for most of the race.

Here then, are my official results.... I finished in 2:40:52, respectable for my own records, but not my best. I finished 6438 overall - a VERY respectable mid-pack finish. I finished 3197 in my gender category, and 592 within my age division. These are out of the 15,000 who raced today, so I feel very good about myself, all things considered.

So, now I head to bed, so that I may get up again tomorrow at 2:30AM and do it all over again. Tomorrow promises to be twice as challenging, however. Not only is it twice the distance, but it's supposed to be hotter, and clear skies mean lots of sunshine and little shade.

I'm not the world's best photoblogger, but I took these pictures of the race from my cell phone.... hope you enjoy them!

Off To The Races!

2007-01-05T09:40:00.000-05:00

Well, today I'm sitting in a hotel room in Walt Disney World, getting ready to do something completely crazy. I'm running in the Goofy Challenge and a Half - part of the Disney Marathon weekend.

What does that mean? it means that tomorrow, I'll be running the half marathon - 13.1 miles.On Sunday, I'll then be running a full marathon - another 26.2 miles, for a grand total of 39.3 miles.

I'll try to provide details as they come, but I wanted to post to say thanks to all of those who have wished me well - I'll post results as soon as I recover!!!

A Wish For The New Year

2006-12-31T18:38:00.000-05:00

It seems like we wish this every year, for one reason or another. Still, it's a wish worth repeating. As often as it takes. I'm not crazy about the quality of this video, but the intent is there:

And as an extra-special treat, check out this Hugh Harman MGM cartoon from 1939... it's the only cartoon to ever be nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize. It's a little sugary in the early going, but stick with it until about 2 1/2 minutes in... it's worth it:

Happy New Year!

Tomorrow Begins Today!

2006-12-31T12:42:00.000-05:00

The initial thought for John Edwards was to announce his official candidacy for President during the final week of 2006, so that he'd be out in front before others officially announce, and that his campaign could take advantage of a slow news week.

Who knew a former President would die, a former dictator would be executed, and a music legend would pass away?

Regardless, John Edwards will have plenty of time to get his message out in the next year:

Check out the strong, positive message of John Edwards, and consider getting involved - I have found getting involved in a political campaign to be one of the most rewarding experiences I've ever had.

Some Thoughts On Saddam Hussein

2006-12-30T12:11:00.000-05:00

After consulting a friend of mine, I have been informed that the death of a notable world figure DOES, in fact, count when identifying a "celebrity death trifecta," regardless of the manner of death. Saddam's execution, therefore, completes the current death trifecta: James Brown, Gerald Ford, and Saddam Hussein. Wow. Poor James Brown.

I've never seen Fox News so happy. Well, not for a long time - they've finally got some "good news" to report. But is it really "good news?" Is our world any safer? Is Iraq better served? What will George Bush do without Saddam Hussein to kick around any more?

Yes... Saddam was a brutal dictator, and he was personally responsible for the deaths of hundreds of thousands of Iraqi citizens. But does that mean I agree with his execution? Nope. Sorry.

You see, I consider myself to be an actual Christian. Not a political Christian, nor a condescending, judgemental Christian. Here's what Christians SHOULD believe regarding execution:

"But if you do not forgive others, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions." Matthew 6:15

"You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.' But I tell you, don't stand against an evil person. If someone hits you on the right cheek, then turn and let him hit the other cheek too." Matthew 5:38-39

"Judge not, that ye be not judged." Matthew 7:1

"Thou shalt not kill." Exodus 20:13

What strikes me as equally interesting is that those who defend Gerald Ford for his compassion in showing mercy to Nixon are the very same individuals who are thrilled at the execution of Saddam Hussein today.

What's been CRAZY is listening to any of the news channels today as they switch back and forth among their different "lead stories"... as I have it on in the background, it becomes very confusing to follow who they're talking about. CNN, at one point, had a split screen, following the James Brown funeral in Augusta, the arrival of Gerald Ford's body and the motorcade, and people celebrating the death of Saddam in Dearborn, Michigan - all at the same time. They have pundits then commenting on each one, and if you're not listening closely, it's possible to come up with some hysterical foul-ups, including at one point where I thought that they were reporting that MC Hammer was going to be attending the funeral of Gerald Ford.

What a crazy way to end what has been a horrendous year.

Gerald Ford - A Man Of Contradictions

2006-12-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

Gerald Ford died on Tuesday. He was the oldest living former President, and yet possibly understood less than any other living former President. As we were preparing a post about the "Political Look Back at 2006," it seemed more appropriate to create a separate post about President Ford.

Gerald Ford was a living contradiction. While parodied on Saturday Night Live by Chevy Chase as a stumbling "accident-waiting-to-happen", he was probably the most athletic of any American President - he was an All-American and had offers to join both the Detroit Lions and the Green Bay Packers.

Ford assumed the presidency, having never received a vote for himself on a Presidential ticket - either as President or as Vice President. Ironically, he was appointed to the VP position when Spiro Agnew resigned, and then assumed the Presidency when Nixon resigned.

Ford will always wear the cloak of his indefensible pardon of Nixon, signaling to many Americans "business as usual" - corruption and politicians being above the law. While the test of time may have signaled that it was probably the right thing to do, it is indefensible given the speed with which it was done, without Congressional authorization, and before any kind of investigation could even begin.

Ford also holds the distinction of surviving two assassination attempts by Squeaky Fromme and Sara Jane Moore within three weeks of each other.

Of course, we can always thank Gerald Ford for the introduction of folks like Donald Rumsfeld, Dick Cheney, and the elder George Bush into the White House Administration.

The position Ford found himself in upon taking control of the White House was not ideal by any means. He found our country in a similar situation to the one we find ourselves in now. Following Vietnam, however, Ford offered healing in the form of amnesty to draft dodgers, and was ballsy enough to announce his decision to an audience of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

President Ford will not go down in history as the best President, nor will he be remembered as the worst. What remains to be seen is if the focus given to Ford's legacy will present any "learning moments" for our current President, as he faces some of the same challenges that were in front of Gerald Ford.