More images of Palin's “Runner’s World” interview
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Dont worry Rush...he wont get a 2nd Chance...
Limbaugh: Obama’s going to try for a third term or something, click here for Audio
RESTED AND RELAXED....Romney's gubernatorial portrait unveiled
(NECN: Scot Yount, Boston, Mass.) - It was a kind of snapshot in time, the Mitt Romney administration recreated if just for a moment, coalescing at the foot of the grand staircase in the Statehouse to unveil the official portrait of the Bay State's 70th governor. Former governor and presidential candidate Romney was all smiles as he thanked legislators both former and present from both sides of the aisle for assembling to celebrate. The portrait, by artist Richard Whitney, depicts the governor sitting on his desk with the landmark healthcare legislation that defined his administration and a photograph of his wife Anne. It was also a time to remember those 69 other governors -- Governor Deval Patrick commended all even if he said there may have been a rascal, or rogue or two. Romney would not say he missed the office of governor or whether he would run for president again, but was overhead telling his portrait's painter, he would like to do this again sometime. NECN's Scot Yount reports.
From the Boston Globe:
“Appreciate all of you coming today, and joining with us,’’ Romney said with his trademark folksy tone, to a crowd of about 250 supporters, former staff members, and state lawmakers. “I’m so delighted to spend some time with you. Look forward to shaking everybody’s hands, and look forward someday to doing this again and again and again.’’
But Romney, who has been considering another run for the presidency, also had his national ambitions on full display. He granted an exclusive interview with Fox News and greeted attendees as if he had never stopped campaigning, at one point carrying his 8-month-old grandchild around the hallways.
“Thanks for being here,’’ he told one person, punctuating it with a loud chuckle.
“You’re very, very kind,’’ he said to another.
Romney said he loved the painting for its “real-life feel to it.’’
“You’ll note one thing this painting has in common with real life,’’ Romney said, “is that in the painting my hair doesn’t move either.’’
'12 race shaping up rapidly - 5 Reasons Mitt Romney is the Guy to Watch
(Eyesonobama).Forgive me for speaking way too early, but the Republican presidential field seems to be shaping up sooner than anyone had previously imagined.
Already, the GOP has essentially lost three strong candidates,That leaves a few key Republicans vying for a chance to take up the mantle that John McCain dropped in 2008: Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour, Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, former House Speaker New Gingrich, and a smattering of GOP Senators, including John Thune of South Dakota, Jim DeMint of South Carolina, and a few others who’ve yet to be named. But from past scandals to a lack of name recognition, each of these candidates has serious impediments when it comes to running a national campaign,Mitt Romney has relatively fewer problems than any of them.
But there are a bevy of reasons that Romney would stand to perform well- and perhaps even win- in the race for the Republican nomination. Here are just five:
1. Republicans Tend to Nominate People Who’ve Run for President Before
With the exception of George W. Bush, Republicans tend to favor candidates who’ve sought the nomination at least once before: John McCain (won in ‘08, lost in ‘00), Bob Dole (won in ‘96, lost in ‘80), George H.W. Bush (won in ‘92, ‘88, lost in ‘80), Ronald Reagan (won in ‘80, ‘84, lost in ‘76), Richard Nixon (won in ‘72, ‘68, lost in ‘60), Barry Goldwater (won in ‘64, lost in 1960). That bodes well for Romney..
2. His Economic Background is Impeccable
While the economic crisis was coming at us like a freight train back in the fall of 2008, imagine if Republicans had sent Romney up to the stage instead of McCain-Palin. He has undeniable market chops, having built his own spin-off company in Bain Capitol, and then returning to it after years of absence to steer it from deep in the red to almost overnight profitability. Romney is probably the only Republican out there who can claim the Reagan mantle of economic policy. And to top it off, none of the others have had the success in business that Romney has.
3. Romney is ready.
Romney has stayed politically lean in his time off the national stage. He’s given a few choice network interviews, keeping every topic he speaks on right within his wheel house: government spending and economics. That means he hasn’t made incendiary comments that can be branded as partisan baiting (Gingrich), given poorly-received speeches (Jindal), or passed on tough questions in interviews (Palin). He’s avoided any political scandals, and even gone so far as to sell off property to avoid appearing "too wealthy" - and thus, detached from the general American public- by selling off some personal property. His election team, curiously, has remained entirely intact, with his top operatives ready to resume campaign activity at the drop of a hat. His political rehab following his primary loss began the day he withdrew from the contest, when he gave a rousing speech before the Conservative Political Action Committee. Romney has made every move a man considering a second bid can- and should- make.
4. In a truly Republican primary, Romney wins.
Romney may have taken second place in the primary, but let’s remember: John McCain did not win a single primary among registered Republicans up to Super Tuesday. Rather, open primary contests that allowed Independents to vote alongside GOPers propelled McCain forward. If the GOP is serious about putting forward a candidate that toes the party line , they’ll have to shut down those primaries. And that would mean Romney, who routinely performed well among rank-and-file Republican voters, would have already won the GOP nomination in 2008.
5. Timing
Quite frankly, now is a terrible time to be in office, especially for governors (but also for Senators). The economy is terrible, we’re fighting what is essentially 1.5 wars (one full one in Afghanistan and a rapidly-downscaling presence in Iraq), while trying to avoid having to take military action against North Korea, Iran, or a South American nation (i.e. Honduras). With most states running out of money, it’s the Governors who are looking to pay the heaviest prices, Current governors are going to have to spend the next several years fighting to get the state economies back on track. Some of them are inevitably going to lose their jobs. But Mitt gets to sit back and play Monday morning quarterback.
It’s not that Romney is a shoe-in. But he is shaping up to be the candidate with the most in his arsenal right now. Palin has healthy polling numbers nationwide, but actually having to run in an election year (complete with debates, interviews, town halls, etc.) is a different story entirely. Romney has everything it takes at this point.
CLEAN BABY CLEAN....Rudy wants to clean up the mess in NY
(John Avlon-Dailybeast)...A recent poll showed that 20% of New Yorkers want to leave the state amid rising taxes, poverty and unemployment rates, and parallels to the bad old days of the 1970s. At least one guy’s not buying it: “Once you say something’s ungovernable,” Rudy Giuliani told me, “You remove accountability.”
“Once you say something’s ungovernable,” Giuliani told me, “You remove accountability.”
Rudy’s back, doing what he does best: proposing how to clean up the mess. He’s hitting the airways and pumping out op-eds in The New York Times. With regard to New York State, Giuliani is calling for a state constitutional convention centered on systemic fixes such as gubernatorial budget authority, term limits, campaign-finance reform and redistricting reform. “The state needs to be fundamentally modernized,” Rudy says. “Many of these suggestions have enjoyed bipartisan support in the past. What’s been missing is action.” He wants to begin a larger debate: “If you have a better way of reforming state government, then come up with it. Just don't sit back and say ‘I can't do anything about it.’” His efforts are being met with speculation that he’ll run for governor in 2010.
New Yorkers know Rudy Giuliani does best in a crisis. I’ve seen that up close, working with him in City Hall. And the Empire State is wrestling with two huge problems with long-term ramifications.
First, the mess in Albany, where corruption and scandal have left only one out of four statewide elected Albany officials where the voters put them less than three years ago. Second, the state economy is a mess: New York has lost 1.5 million people this decade and 195,000 private-sector jobs in the past year. The number of upstate manufacturing jobs has declined by 24% and the only sector growing north of the Hudson River Valley is the government.
Some people see parallels to the shape of New York state today and the shape of New York City when Rudy ran for mayor.
When I asked Rudy whether he’s decided to run for governor, he said he hasn’t decided. I know him: Believe it. But polls in New York show an interesting opportunity. The Marist poll’s hypothetical head-to-head matchups show Rudy defeating Governor Paterson by 56% to 32%, while trailing Attorney General (and son of Mario) Andrew Cuomo. What’s most revealing is a look at the cross-tabs showing Rudy winning the support of 38% of Democrats, 54% of moderates, and 56% of independents, as well as 58% of voters who make less than $50,000 a year. Republicans realize that he might be their last shot in a state that is down to two GOP congressmen from 13 a decade ago. “Rudy Giuliani has proven time and again that he commands the leadership skills to bring order and prosperity out of chaos and dysfunction,” says Michael McCormack, GOP chairman in FDR country, Dutchess County.
Whether he leads a state constitutional convention or runs to lead the Albany statehouse itself, a Rudy resurgence has the potential to be bigger than just turning the tide in New York. A cleanup there could show the national Republican Party a path out of the wilderness, with a focus on fiscal responsibility, effective governance, political reform, and economic growth—a big-tent prescription based on the principles that Republicans used to stand for.
“Once you say something’s ungovernable,” Giuliani told me, “You remove accountability.”
Rudy’s back, doing what he does best: proposing how to clean up the mess. He’s hitting the airways and pumping out op-eds in The New York Times. With regard to New York State, Giuliani is calling for a state constitutional convention centered on systemic fixes such as gubernatorial budget authority, term limits, campaign-finance reform and redistricting reform. “The state needs to be fundamentally modernized,” Rudy says. “Many of these suggestions have enjoyed bipartisan support in the past. What’s been missing is action.” He wants to begin a larger debate: “If you have a better way of reforming state government, then come up with it. Just don't sit back and say ‘I can't do anything about it.’” His efforts are being met with speculation that he’ll run for governor in 2010.
New Yorkers know Rudy Giuliani does best in a crisis. I’ve seen that up close, working with him in City Hall. And the Empire State is wrestling with two huge problems with long-term ramifications.
First, the mess in Albany, where corruption and scandal have left only one out of four statewide elected Albany officials where the voters put them less than three years ago. Second, the state economy is a mess: New York has lost 1.5 million people this decade and 195,000 private-sector jobs in the past year. The number of upstate manufacturing jobs has declined by 24% and the only sector growing north of the Hudson River Valley is the government.
Some people see parallels to the shape of New York state today and the shape of New York City when Rudy ran for mayor.
When I asked Rudy whether he’s decided to run for governor, he said he hasn’t decided. I know him: Believe it. But polls in New York show an interesting opportunity. The Marist poll’s hypothetical head-to-head matchups show Rudy defeating Governor Paterson by 56% to 32%, while trailing Attorney General (and son of Mario) Andrew Cuomo. What’s most revealing is a look at the cross-tabs showing Rudy winning the support of 38% of Democrats, 54% of moderates, and 56% of independents, as well as 58% of voters who make less than $50,000 a year. Republicans realize that he might be their last shot in a state that is down to two GOP congressmen from 13 a decade ago. “Rudy Giuliani has proven time and again that he commands the leadership skills to bring order and prosperity out of chaos and dysfunction,” says Michael McCormack, GOP chairman in FDR country, Dutchess County.
Whether he leads a state constitutional convention or runs to lead the Albany statehouse itself, a Rudy resurgence has the potential to be bigger than just turning the tide in New York. A cleanup there could show the national Republican Party a path out of the wilderness, with a focus on fiscal responsibility, effective governance, political reform, and economic growth—a big-tent prescription based on the principles that Republicans used to stand for.
Romney's return to Statehouse for portrait display recalls tidy tenure
(Telegram).Through it all, Mitt Romney keeps plodding along with the beat of a metronome. It's a steadiness he displayed as governor of Massachusetts, a tidy tenure recalled Tuesday as he returned to the Statehouse to see his official portrait unveiled.
Fittingly, he is depicted in a business suit and office setting, appropriate for someone who favors starched shirts and spending the Fourth of July weekend on a New Hampshire lake with his five sons, 14 grandchildren and one wife.
"I think one of his strengths has always been that he's a good, decent guy," said Charlie Arlinghaus of Canterbury, N.H., who heads a conservative think-tank in the Granite State and once ran its Republican Party. "It's hard not to look at him and not say, `Cleaning up the Salt Lake Olympics was a good thing.' And being a good family man is always a plus."
"He's kept his nose clean, but it's way too early to tell how things shake out," said Steve Scheffler, president of the Iowa Christian Alliance.
Romney's portrait was painted by New Hampshire artist Richard Whitney for $30,000 in private donations. Whitney is known for his realistic paintings, and has done portraits of Virginia Sen. Jim Webb and former Labor Secretary Robert Reich.
By tradition, Romney's picture will hang in the lobby of the third-floor Governor's Office. And its hanging will displace the seventh of the portraits also on display.
Fittingly, he is depicted in a business suit and office setting, appropriate for someone who favors starched shirts and spending the Fourth of July weekend on a New Hampshire lake with his five sons, 14 grandchildren and one wife.
"I think one of his strengths has always been that he's a good, decent guy," said Charlie Arlinghaus of Canterbury, N.H., who heads a conservative think-tank in the Granite State and once ran its Republican Party. "It's hard not to look at him and not say, `Cleaning up the Salt Lake Olympics was a good thing.' And being a good family man is always a plus."
"He's kept his nose clean, but it's way too early to tell how things shake out," said Steve Scheffler, president of the Iowa Christian Alliance.
Romney's portrait was painted by New Hampshire artist Richard Whitney for $30,000 in private donations. Whitney is known for his realistic paintings, and has done portraits of Virginia Sen. Jim Webb and former Labor Secretary Robert Reich.
By tradition, Romney's picture will hang in the lobby of the third-floor Governor's Office. And its hanging will displace the seventh of the portraits also on display.
Palin:I'M A RUNNER,I'd come out ahead in run against Obama
(AP) — Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin says she'd come out ahead if she went one-on-one with fellow jogger President Barack Obama in a long run, according to an interview published online Tuesday.
"I betcha I'd have more endurance," she told Runner's World magazine. "My one claim to fame in my own little internal running circle is a sub-four marathon. What I lacked in physical strength or skill, I made up for in determination and endurance."
read full interview on Runnersworld site - very interesting
Palin, a 45-year-old former beauty queen who became the first woman and youngest person to be elected Alaska's governor, is featured in the August issue of the magazine for jogging aficionados. She was dubbed the country's "hottest" governor when she stole the show as U.S. Sen. John McCain's presidential running mate in 2008.
In the interview, she talks about her fondness for running, which is perhaps why the mother of five who gave birth to a baby boy last year is able to keep trim. The magazine on Tuesday published an extended version on its Web site.
Palin said running wasn't just a body thing and that it helps keep her emotionally and mentally in shape:"I feel so crappy if I go more than a few days without running. No matter how rotten I feel before or during a run, it's always worth it to me afterward. Sweat is my sanity," Palin tells the magazine.
NRSC Chairman Cornyn's Statement :As Dems reach #60 - 2010 will be critical to regain Power
Chairman Cornyn has issued the statement below on the Minnesota Senate Campaign. With Al Franken joining the US Senate, the Democrats now have unchecked power in Washington. This goes to show just how critical the 2010 election is. Your support will help elect a Republican majority.
“....This has been a long process and while both sides would have preferred a speedier outcome, full, fair and free elections are what make our nation great. That’s why I have so much respect for Norm Coleman. I’ve known Norm not just as a friend and colleague, but as a devoted public servant who recognized that this legal challenge was not just about him. It was about making sure no Minnesotan was disenfranchised in this election.
“Throughout the last several months, Senate Republicans have made clear that the people of Minnesota, not politicians in Washington, should decide this election. Now that the courts have spoken, I join Norm in respecting that decision and moving forward to address the important issues facing our country.
“The implications of this Senate race are particularly significant because the Democrats will now have 60 votes in the Senate. With their supermajority, the era of excuses and finger-pointing is now over. With just 59 votes, Senate Democrats in recent months have passed trillion-dollar spending bills, driven up America’s debt, made every American taxpayer a shareholder in the auto industry and now want Washington to takeover America’s health care system. It’s troubling to think about what they might now accomplish with 60 votes.
“That’s why the American people will now have a particularly clear choice in next year’s election – to continue down this path of fiscal mismanagement, more big government, and one-party control in Washington or to restore a system of checks and balances that will hold government accountable to its citizens."
“....This has been a long process and while both sides would have preferred a speedier outcome, full, fair and free elections are what make our nation great. That’s why I have so much respect for Norm Coleman. I’ve known Norm not just as a friend and colleague, but as a devoted public servant who recognized that this legal challenge was not just about him. It was about making sure no Minnesotan was disenfranchised in this election.
“Throughout the last several months, Senate Republicans have made clear that the people of Minnesota, not politicians in Washington, should decide this election. Now that the courts have spoken, I join Norm in respecting that decision and moving forward to address the important issues facing our country.
“The implications of this Senate race are particularly significant because the Democrats will now have 60 votes in the Senate. With their supermajority, the era of excuses and finger-pointing is now over. With just 59 votes, Senate Democrats in recent months have passed trillion-dollar spending bills, driven up America’s debt, made every American taxpayer a shareholder in the auto industry and now want Washington to takeover America’s health care system. It’s troubling to think about what they might now accomplish with 60 votes.
“That’s why the American people will now have a particularly clear choice in next year’s election – to continue down this path of fiscal mismanagement, more big government, and one-party control in Washington or to restore a system of checks and balances that will hold government accountable to its citizens."
Coleman concedes MN Senate seat - As the GOP you will make a Comeback Norm!
(CNN) -- Former Sen. Norm Coleman gave up his challenge to the November election results Tuesday, clearing the way for satirist Al Franken to take the state's remaining U.S. Senate seat.
The court's unanimous, unsigned opinion declared that Franken "received the highest number of votes legally cast" and is entitled "to receive the certificate of election as United States senator from the state of Minnesota."
"I just congratulated Al Franken on his victory," Coleman said in a press conference with reporters. "I told him it's the best job he'll ever have representing Minnesota in the United States Senate. The Supreme Court has spoken, I will respect its decision, and abide by its results," Coleman also said.
The court's unanimous, unsigned opinion declared that Franken "received the highest number of votes legally cast" and is entitled "to receive the certificate of election as United States senator from the state of Minnesota."
"I just congratulated Al Franken on his victory," Coleman said in a press conference with reporters. "I told him it's the best job he'll ever have representing Minnesota in the United States Senate. The Supreme Court has spoken, I will respect its decision, and abide by its results," Coleman also said.
Republicans Lead Again on Congressional Ballot
Republican congressional candidates rebounded this week and pulled ahead again of Democrats in the latest edition of the Generic Congressional Ballot. The last time the GOP held a lead was in early May.
A new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey shows that 41% would vote for their district's Republican congressional candidate while 39% would choose the Democratic candidate. Support for the GOP rose two points over the past week, while support for Democrats dropped two points . This is only the fourth time the GOP has held a lead in over two years
A new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey shows that 41% would vote for their district's Republican congressional candidate while 39% would choose the Democratic candidate. Support for the GOP rose two points over the past week, while support for Democrats dropped two points . This is only the fourth time the GOP has held a lead in over two years
Huckabee:"There's been a lot of change, but not a lot of hope."
(venturacountystar).Republican politician Mike Huckabee on Monday greeted a long line of supporters inside the bookstore at the Reagan Library in Simi Valley.
Huckabee, host of his namesake show on Fox News Channel and author of six books, was at the library to sign his latest book, “Do the Right Thing.Huckabee spoke in front of a sold-out crowd of almost a thousand guests, which included former first lady Nancy Reagan.
This was Huckabee’s fifth appearance at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. His last appearance was during the 2008 Republican primary debate held inside the Air Force One Pavilion.
Huckabee joked with the audience about his unsuccessful run for the presidency:“More people have come up to me in airports saying they voted for me than actually voted for me,” said Huckabee, with a laugh.
Huckabee, who hasn’t ruled out running in 2012, had some words about President Barack Obama:“There’s been a lot of change but not a lot of hope,” he said, criticizing what he called Obama’s appeasement of tyrants in other countries and his handling of the country’s economic crisis.
Huckabee said he’s not completely pessimistic about the country’s future.
“I’m not going to be the one to wring my hands and say the best is behind us. I do think it’s time to roll up our sleeves and say the best is yet to come,” he said.
Huckabee, host of his namesake show on Fox News Channel and author of six books, was at the library to sign his latest book, “Do the Right Thing.Huckabee spoke in front of a sold-out crowd of almost a thousand guests, which included former first lady Nancy Reagan.
This was Huckabee’s fifth appearance at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. His last appearance was during the 2008 Republican primary debate held inside the Air Force One Pavilion.
Huckabee joked with the audience about his unsuccessful run for the presidency:“More people have come up to me in airports saying they voted for me than actually voted for me,” said Huckabee, with a laugh.
Huckabee, who hasn’t ruled out running in 2012, had some words about President Barack Obama:“There’s been a lot of change but not a lot of hope,” he said, criticizing what he called Obama’s appeasement of tyrants in other countries and his handling of the country’s economic crisis.
Huckabee said he’s not completely pessimistic about the country’s future.
“I’m not going to be the one to wring my hands and say the best is behind us. I do think it’s time to roll up our sleeves and say the best is yet to come,” he said.
AMERICA MITTENS FOR MITT - Politico online poll: 68% want Romney to run for President
Romney readying for 2012
Should Mitt Romney make another run for the presidency in 2012?
Yes, definitely!
39 %
I guess, if he wants to.
29 %
No way. He should stay out of the race.
29 %
I'm not sure.
2 %
Should Mitt Romney make another run for the presidency in 2012?
Yes, definitely!
39 %
I guess, if he wants to.
29 %
No way. He should stay out of the race.
29 %
I'm not sure.
2 %
Obama's approval rating falls to lowest level ever (-2)
The Rasmussen Reports daily Presidential Tracking Poll for Tuesday shows that 31% of the nation's voters now Strongly Approve of the way that Barack Obama is performing his role as President. Thirty-three percent (33%) Strongly Disapprove giving Obama a Presidential Approval Index rating of -2. That matches the lowest level yet recorded
Over the past two weeks, the Presidential Approval Index has stayed in a narrow range between +2 and -2. Fifty-seven percent (57%) of Democrats Strongly Approve while 60% of Republicans Strongly Disapprove.
Overall, 54% of voters say they at least somewhat approve of the President's performance so far. Forty-six percent (46%) disapprove.
Over the past two weeks, the Presidential Approval Index has stayed in a narrow range between +2 and -2. Fifty-seven percent (57%) of Democrats Strongly Approve while 60% of Republicans Strongly Disapprove.
Overall, 54% of voters say they at least somewhat approve of the President's performance so far. Forty-six percent (46%) disapprove.
Are we better off then 6 Month ago? - Consumer Confidence Takes "Unexpectedly Steep Slide" In June
(Reuters) - U.S. consumer confidence took an unexpectedly steep slide in June, figures released on Tuesday showed, suggesting the 18-month-long recession had yet to loosen its grip on the economy.
A separate report on April house prices in major cities offered some encouraging signs that the worst of the housing slump may be over, but that was not enough to lift investors' spirits, while another crop of economic data showed business activity in New York City and the Midwest remained weak and retail chains slogged through a rough June.
Major stock market indexes turned lower after the Conference Board's consumer confidence index showed households felt gloomier about their current situation, and less optimistic about the eventual economic recovery.
The confidence index fell to 49.3 in June from 54.8 in May. Economists polled by Reuters had expected a healthier reading of 55.0 for this month.
I HAVE A SIMPLE QUESTION, ARE YOU BETTER OFF? ARE YOU BETTER OFF NOW THEN SIX MONTH AGO? ARE YOU READY FOR FOUR MORE YEARS OF FAILED POLICIES?
A separate report on April house prices in major cities offered some encouraging signs that the worst of the housing slump may be over, but that was not enough to lift investors' spirits, while another crop of economic data showed business activity in New York City and the Midwest remained weak and retail chains slogged through a rough June.
Major stock market indexes turned lower after the Conference Board's consumer confidence index showed households felt gloomier about their current situation, and less optimistic about the eventual economic recovery.
The confidence index fell to 49.3 in June from 54.8 in May. Economists polled by Reuters had expected a healthier reading of 55.0 for this month.
I HAVE A SIMPLE QUESTION, ARE YOU BETTER OFF? ARE YOU BETTER OFF NOW THEN SIX MONTH AGO? ARE YOU READY FOR FOUR MORE YEARS OF FAILED POLICIES?
Monday, June 29, 2009
Mitt and Sarah - The King and the Queen of the GOP
(Fivethirtyeight).The 2012 Republican presidential primaries are two-and-a-half years away, but if they were starting today Sarah Palin would enter with the highest net approval ratings among self-described Republicans, according to a recent Pew poll.According to Pew, the Alaska governor's popularity among Republicans, as measured by her net approval-minus-disapproval ratings, is +56, with former Gov. Mitt Romney and former Speaker Newt Gingrich a bit further back, at +39 and +33 respectively.
Although Palin's approval is high, and sustained compared to earlier Pew-conducted polls, Pew emphasized Romney's steady increase among not just Republicans but the broader public.
Given the troubles encountered of late by any number of first- or second-tier GOP presidential contenders, from John Ensign to Mark Sanford to Michael Steele, it may be that Romney is benefitting from a perception of a steady-as-he-goes maturity and scandal- or blunder-free eights months since the 2008 presidential election.
In the days immediately following the 2008 presidential election, among Republicans surveyed by Gallup, Palin and Romney led the field. Eight months later, they're still out in front. Perhaps the duo are riding a name-recognition advantage against a pretty weak GOP field to date. And, of course, plenty can change during the 30 months between now and the Republican caucuses in Iowa.
But for now, at least, Palin and Romney remain the frontrunners. Whether or not the GOP in fact nominates for president the person "next in line," a myth Ed recently debunked, Mitt and Sarah are still the king and queen of Republican presidential hopefuls.
Yes MA can!! Massachusetts Governor a toss up - Referendum on Patrick raising Republican's chance
Election 2010: Massachusetts Governor(Rasmussenreports).An early look at the 2010 election cycle finds that Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick has some work to do if he wants to win reelection.
When matched against Christy Mihos, the Democratic governor picks up 40% of the vote and trails the potential GOP nominee by a single point.
If Charlie Baker is the Republican nominee, Patrick’s support is little changed at 41% while Baker is favored by 36%. Baker is a health care chief executive officer who has not yet formally decided if he is entering the race.
In both match-ups, the number preferring “some other candidate” is in double digits, and roughly one-out-of-10 voters is undecided.
The fact that the numbers are so similar regardless of which Republican is mentioned suggest that the race so far is viewed as a referendum on the incumbent rather than a choice between competing alternatives.
RUN RUDY RUN..... Giuliani finaly thinking already of a Governor Run
(Politico).Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani said Monday that he is considering running for governor in 2010.
Appearing on CNN’s “American Morning,” Giuliani insisted that “I don’t know if I am or if I’m not” running for governor. But pushed further, the former Republican president candidate conceded that he is indeed “thinking about it.”
“I don’t know if I’m at the point of seriously considering it,” he said. “It’s a little too early.”
According to a June Quinnipiac University poll, Giuliani holds a 52 percent to 34 percent advantage over the unpopular Democratic Gov. David Paterson in a potential general election match up.
Appearing on CNN’s “American Morning,” Giuliani insisted that “I don’t know if I am or if I’m not” running for governor. But pushed further, the former Republican president candidate conceded that he is indeed “thinking about it.”
“I don’t know if I’m at the point of seriously considering it,” he said. “It’s a little too early.”
According to a June Quinnipiac University poll, Giuliani holds a 52 percent to 34 percent advantage over the unpopular Democratic Gov. David Paterson in a potential general election match up.
Gov. Palin wins Kansas Straw poll
(Primebuzz).Here are the results of a straw poll that was taken yesterday at the Olathe Republican Party's annual picnic in Olathe, Kansas:
President -- 2012
Sarah Palin: 76
Mike Huckabee: 54
Mitt Romney: 52
Bobby Jindal: 19
Ron Paul: 9
President -- 2012
Sarah Palin: 76
Mike Huckabee: 54
Mitt Romney: 52
Bobby Jindal: 19
Ron Paul: 9
"He was tanned, rested and ready" - Mitt Romney's team and loyal supporters await 2012 run
(Politico).Mitt Romney says publicly he’s not considering another presidential campaign, most recently on Sunday during an appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press.” But many of his loyalists expect one and remain at the ready for 2012.
When dozens of former Romney aides and advisers convened on the terrace of Charlie Spies’ fashionable Penn Quarter loft earlier this year on a warm February night, the purpose was ostensibly to help raise money for the Virginia state House race of Romney strategist Barbara Comstock.
But Spies, formerly the Romney campaign’s CFO, wasn’t just hosting a $100 per-head fundraiser. He was also staging a Romney political family reunion, as advertised by his email invitation subject line, “The Romney gang back together,” and the special $50 cut-rate fee for former campaign staffers meant to draw some of the junior aides.
The buzz that night was unmistakable among the 80 or so former Romney operatives present. “He was tanned, rested and ready,” said one former campaign aide of his old boss.
For the Romney team, it’s not too much of a stretch to say that the campaign never really ended,In addition to the full-time employees the former Massachusetts governor has at his Boston-based Free & Strong America PAC, the early primary states and Washington are filled with former staffers and supporters who are in regular contact with one another.
Whenever Romney has a major TV appearance or pens an opinion piece, a PAC staffer, Will Ritter, circulates the news to an e-mail list of the former governor’s extended political family.
The Washington-based alumni have a regular monthly luncheon, are working on another reunion-like event around a 2009 candidate later this year and always make sure their former candidate is briefed on the latest political doings.
When Romney does a high-profile Sunday show like he did yesterday, for example, that means that former communications aides such as Matt Rhoades and Kevin Madden will join PAC spokesman and longtime adviser Eric Fehrnstrom to help prepare their old boss, either in person or over the phone. When he’s delivering a speech, as he did earlier this month on national security, other former campaign officials such as media consultants Russ Schriefer and Stuart Stevens are brought in.
And when the former governor is in Washington for reasons other than a public appearance, an even broader extended network of advisers is often alerted, including such figures as longtime lobbyist and GOP strategist Ron Kaufman.
Romney enjoys an equally strong following in many of the early primary states.
“I’m going be a Mitt guy until he tells me he’s not running for president,” said Jim Merrill, who ran Romney’s New Hampshire primary campaign and said he still gets excited emails from local activists every time the former governor is on TV.
The ongoing coordination and alliances serve as perhaps the best reminder that, unlike any of his potential rivals, Romney has a turn-key political apparatus in place and ready for deployment should he decide to run again.
"Having run before for president puts you in a better place to run to run again,” said Terry Nelson, a top GOP strategist and for a time John McCain’s 2008 campaign manager. "He doesn’t have to build an infrastructure or recruit a a national fundraising team.”
GOP observers say that Romney’s stock is rising for two other important reasons –the political climate and his own deft moves since losing the nomination.
After the national security-dominated Bush years, the recession has brought the importance of economic issues into sharp focus, the issue matrix now favors Romney’s background as a turnaround specialist.
It’s not just the economy in general where Romney finds himself working from a position of strength, but more specifically on issues like health care and the auto industry where Romney can voice informed opposition to President Obama in a way few others in his party are equipped to.
And while other potential 2012 contenders in the party are falling by the wayside because of adultery, Romney loyalists say the father of five’s straight arrow ways suddenly look even more appealing.
“We know everything about the guy,” said one former Romney campaign official. “The good, the bad and the ugly. And it ain’t that ugly.”
At a time when Republicans are seeking the right balance in taking on the popular president, Romney’s approach is effective, Gillespie said,“Part of being a leader in the party is showing people how to talk about these issues, how to effectively challenge the other side,” he said.
“He’s obviously the frontrunner,” said Mark Salter, a former top aide to John McCain who launched some tough attacks on Romney during the primary.
When dozens of former Romney aides and advisers convened on the terrace of Charlie Spies’ fashionable Penn Quarter loft earlier this year on a warm February night, the purpose was ostensibly to help raise money for the Virginia state House race of Romney strategist Barbara Comstock.
But Spies, formerly the Romney campaign’s CFO, wasn’t just hosting a $100 per-head fundraiser. He was also staging a Romney political family reunion, as advertised by his email invitation subject line, “The Romney gang back together,” and the special $50 cut-rate fee for former campaign staffers meant to draw some of the junior aides.
The buzz that night was unmistakable among the 80 or so former Romney operatives present. “He was tanned, rested and ready,” said one former campaign aide of his old boss.
For the Romney team, it’s not too much of a stretch to say that the campaign never really ended,In addition to the full-time employees the former Massachusetts governor has at his Boston-based Free & Strong America PAC, the early primary states and Washington are filled with former staffers and supporters who are in regular contact with one another.
Whenever Romney has a major TV appearance or pens an opinion piece, a PAC staffer, Will Ritter, circulates the news to an e-mail list of the former governor’s extended political family.
The Washington-based alumni have a regular monthly luncheon, are working on another reunion-like event around a 2009 candidate later this year and always make sure their former candidate is briefed on the latest political doings.
When Romney does a high-profile Sunday show like he did yesterday, for example, that means that former communications aides such as Matt Rhoades and Kevin Madden will join PAC spokesman and longtime adviser Eric Fehrnstrom to help prepare their old boss, either in person or over the phone. When he’s delivering a speech, as he did earlier this month on national security, other former campaign officials such as media consultants Russ Schriefer and Stuart Stevens are brought in.
And when the former governor is in Washington for reasons other than a public appearance, an even broader extended network of advisers is often alerted, including such figures as longtime lobbyist and GOP strategist Ron Kaufman.
Romney enjoys an equally strong following in many of the early primary states.
“I’m going be a Mitt guy until he tells me he’s not running for president,” said Jim Merrill, who ran Romney’s New Hampshire primary campaign and said he still gets excited emails from local activists every time the former governor is on TV.
The ongoing coordination and alliances serve as perhaps the best reminder that, unlike any of his potential rivals, Romney has a turn-key political apparatus in place and ready for deployment should he decide to run again.
"Having run before for president puts you in a better place to run to run again,” said Terry Nelson, a top GOP strategist and for a time John McCain’s 2008 campaign manager. "He doesn’t have to build an infrastructure or recruit a a national fundraising team.”
GOP observers say that Romney’s stock is rising for two other important reasons –the political climate and his own deft moves since losing the nomination.
After the national security-dominated Bush years, the recession has brought the importance of economic issues into sharp focus, the issue matrix now favors Romney’s background as a turnaround specialist.
It’s not just the economy in general where Romney finds himself working from a position of strength, but more specifically on issues like health care and the auto industry where Romney can voice informed opposition to President Obama in a way few others in his party are equipped to.
And while other potential 2012 contenders in the party are falling by the wayside because of adultery, Romney loyalists say the father of five’s straight arrow ways suddenly look even more appealing.
“We know everything about the guy,” said one former Romney campaign official. “The good, the bad and the ugly. And it ain’t that ugly.”
At a time when Republicans are seeking the right balance in taking on the popular president, Romney’s approach is effective, Gillespie said,“Part of being a leader in the party is showing people how to talk about these issues, how to effectively challenge the other side,” he said.
“He’s obviously the frontrunner,” said Mark Salter, a former top aide to John McCain who launched some tough attacks on Romney during the primary.
Obama Breaks Promise, Moves Toward Middle-Class Healthcare Tax
(newsmax).The Obama White House left open the possibility Sunday that the president would break a campaign promise and raise taxes on people earning less than $250,000 to support his health care overhaul agenda.
White House adviser David Axelrod said the administration wouldn't rule out taxing some employees' benefits to fund a health care agenda that has yet to take final form. The move would be a compromise with fellow Democrats, who are pushing the proposal as a way to pay for the massive undertaking without ballooning the federal deficit.
"There are a number of formulations and we'll wait and see. The important thing at this point is to keep the process moving, to keep people at the table, to the keep the discussions going," Axelrod said. "We've gotten a long way down the road and we want to finish that journey."
But if President Barack Obama compromises on that point, it would reverse a campaign tax promise.
"I pledge that under my plan, no one making less than $250,000 a year will see any type of tax increase," Obama told a crowd in Dover, N.H., last year. "Not income tax, not capital gains taxes, not any kind of tax."
White House adviser David Axelrod said the administration wouldn't rule out taxing some employees' benefits to fund a health care agenda that has yet to take final form. The move would be a compromise with fellow Democrats, who are pushing the proposal as a way to pay for the massive undertaking without ballooning the federal deficit.
"There are a number of formulations and we'll wait and see. The important thing at this point is to keep the process moving, to keep people at the table, to the keep the discussions going," Axelrod said. "We've gotten a long way down the road and we want to finish that journey."
But if President Barack Obama compromises on that point, it would reverse a campaign tax promise.
"I pledge that under my plan, no one making less than $250,000 a year will see any type of tax increase," Obama told a crowd in Dover, N.H., last year. "Not income tax, not capital gains taxes, not any kind of tax."
Sunday, June 28, 2009
David Axelrod On Meet The Press Can't Bring Himself To Criticize Iran
David Gregory to his credit asks Axelrod 3 times, giving him plenty of opportunity to lay out consequences for Iran, Axelrod dodges again and again...
ATTEMPT #1
Gregory: "Is the policy of engaging the Iranians on the ropes?"
Axelrod: "Well that's up to the Iranians(huh?)....Understand that (Ahmadinejad) he's not the decision maker when it comes to foreign policy or defense policy in Iran, his comments are meant for domestic political content. It's a long used technique in Iran to try to make the U.S. the foil for his own problems in Iran
ATTEMPT #2
Gregory: "Should there be consequences? The President has been very clear about what he thinks about what has gone on in Iran calling it outrageous, SHOULD THERE BE CONSEQUENCES for what the Iranian regime has done?"
Axelrod: "Well I think...look everybody is dismayed and appauled by what has happened in Iran, and the consequences will I think unfold over time in Iran"
ATTEMPT #3
Gregory: "SHOULD THERE BE CONSEQUENCES FROM UNITED STATES AND THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY?"
Axelrod: "David we don't have diplomatic relations with Iran and the international community has made it's views known, it sets them down the wrong path."
ATTEMPT #1
Gregory: "Is the policy of engaging the Iranians on the ropes?"
Axelrod: "Well that's up to the Iranians(huh?)....Understand that (Ahmadinejad) he's not the decision maker when it comes to foreign policy or defense policy in Iran, his comments are meant for domestic political content. It's a long used technique in Iran to try to make the U.S. the foil for his own problems in Iran
ATTEMPT #2
Gregory: "Should there be consequences? The President has been very clear about what he thinks about what has gone on in Iran calling it outrageous, SHOULD THERE BE CONSEQUENCES for what the Iranian regime has done?"
Axelrod: "Well I think...look everybody is dismayed and appauled by what has happened in Iran, and the consequences will I think unfold over time in Iran"
ATTEMPT #3
Gregory: "SHOULD THERE BE CONSEQUENCES FROM UNITED STATES AND THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY?"
Axelrod: "David we don't have diplomatic relations with Iran and the international community has made it's views known, it sets them down the wrong path."
Oh yeah! A caller to C-Span calls Jimmy Carter a bigot and an anti-semite.
On Shalom TV, Harvard Law Professor Alan Dershowitz describes President Jimmy Carter as an "anti-Israel bigot," saying that he has no sympathy for the Jewish people.
"If you're an Israeli, Carter doesn't like you. If you're an Arab or a Muslim, he likes you."
Romney: Eyeing Forward to 2010 and we have ideas
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Mitt Romney says Governers must 'live by a higher standard'
(Politico).Discussing disgraced South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, a fellow Republican, said governors and other national leaders are expected “to live by a higher standard because … the culture of the nation” can be hurt by their failings.
“Seeing this family become healed is our highest priority,” Romney said on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”
“At the same time – and not commenting particularly on Governor Sanford — … people in public life ought to be held to a higher standard. … I heard one … former governor say, ‘Well, everybody makes mistakes.’ Well, that’s true.
“But not all mistakes are the same. And not everybody is a governor or a senator or a president. And we expect [those] people to live by a higher standard, because what they do is going to be magnified, their families are going to be hurt more by what they do, the things they care about will be hurt, and the culture of the nation and the people who follow them will be hurt.”
Asked if Sanford should hold onto his job, Romney said: “His holding onto that job is really between him and his family and the people of South Carolina. It’s not for people outside the state to make pronouncements on. This is a matter which is really a heartbreaking matter, and that’s what I think you have to focus on. You’ve got a family in great distress.”
“Seeing this family become healed is our highest priority,” Romney said on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
“At the same time – and not commenting particularly on Governor Sanford — … people in public life ought to be held to a higher standard. … I heard one … former governor say, ‘Well, everybody makes mistakes.’ Well, that’s true.
“But not all mistakes are the same. And not everybody is a governor or a senator or a president. And we expect [those] people to live by a higher standard, because what they do is going to be magnified, their families are going to be hurt more by what they do, the things they care about will be hurt, and the culture of the nation and the people who follow them will be hurt.”
Asked if Sanford should hold onto his job, Romney said: “His holding onto that job is really between him and his family and the people of South Carolina. It’s not for people outside the state to make pronouncements on. This is a matter which is really a heartbreaking matter, and that’s what I think you have to focus on. You’ve got a family in great distress.”
"Today, under Barack Obama, there are two Americas".
Remember the campaign stump speech John Edwards gave during the last Presidential campaign?
“Today, under George W. Bush, there are two Americas, not one: One America that does the work, another America that reaps the reward. One America that pays the taxes, another America that gets the tax breaks. One America that will do anything to leave its children a better life, another America that never has to do a thing because its children are already set for life.....
Well what should we say today?
The Rasmussen Reports daily Presidential Tracking Poll for Sunday shows that 32% of the nation's voters now Strongly Approve of the way that Barack Obama is performing his role as President. Thirty-two percent (32%) Strongly Disapprove giving Obama a Presidential Approval Index rating of 0 .
Forty-two percent (42%) say that Obama’s response to the situation in Iran has been about right while 40% believe he should be more aggressive.
“Today, under Barack Obama, there are two Americas, not one:One America that opposes Massive spending and growing deficit , the Other America gets leg thrills when The President talks and proposes Change and change and change ...
“Today, under George W. Bush, there are two Americas, not one: One America that does the work, another America that reaps the reward. One America that pays the taxes, another America that gets the tax breaks. One America that will do anything to leave its children a better life, another America that never has to do a thing because its children are already set for life.....
Well what should we say today?
The Rasmussen Reports daily Presidential Tracking Poll for Sunday shows that 32% of the nation's voters now Strongly Approve of the way that Barack Obama is performing his role as President. Thirty-two percent (32%) Strongly Disapprove giving Obama a Presidential Approval Index rating of 0 .
Forty-two percent (42%) say that Obama’s response to the situation in Iran has been about right while 40% believe he should be more aggressive.
“Today, under Barack Obama, there are two Americas, not one:One America that opposes Massive spending and growing deficit , the Other America gets leg thrills when The President talks and proposes Change and change and change ...
GOP House Leader Slams the Obama Economic Disaster In Weekly Address
"After all of this spending, after all of this borrowing from China, the Middle East, our children and our grandchildren, where are the jobs?"
House Republican Leader John Boehner (R-OH) delivered the weekly Republican address. The address comes as unemployment rises while Washington Democrats continue to pursue policies on the economy, health care, energy, and the environment that will destroy more American jobs and drive future generations into deeper debt.
House Republican Leader John Boehner (R-OH) delivered the weekly Republican address. The address comes as unemployment rises while Washington Democrats continue to pursue policies on the economy, health care, energy, and the environment that will destroy more American jobs and drive future generations into deeper debt.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Warming up to the 'Turnaround Artist', Romney is Munching into Obama's Big middle
(Hotlineoncall)..."Romney's rise is probably due in part to Republicans are being true to form and rallying behind the candidate who came in second," said GOP lobbyist Cesar Conda who was a policy adviser to Romney in 2008.
(Some may quibble with Conda and note that former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee was the last man standing against Sen. John McCain of Arizona in the 2008 GOP contest, but Romney did capture more primaries and caucuses.)
"And as the economy continues to struggle, maybe Republicans are warming up to Romney's 'turnaround artist' attributes," added Conda referring to Romney's comfort with economic issues dating back to his days as a head of the investment firm Bain Capital.
"His profile has matured nicely, largely as the result of his willingness to focus on helping rebuild the party as well as focus on substantive issues," explained strategic communications consultant Kevin Madden, who was national press spokesman for Romney's 2008 campaign. "Also, the current matrix of issues and challenges facing the country are ones that he has an identifiable record of success on, namely the economy, health care, budget reform and the need for fiscal accountability."
But Romney isn't at the top of the GOP pile yet.One reason for that drop is that Romney has made his most significant gains among self-identified independents: 44% now view him favorably compared to 25% who view him unfavorably. Last February those numbers were practically flipped when just 29% of independents viewed him favorably and 46% viewed him unfavorably.
"I was very encouraged by the independents' data," said Madden. "After all, Obama's real base is the big middle."
(Some may quibble with Conda and note that former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee was the last man standing against Sen. John McCain of Arizona in the 2008 GOP contest, but Romney did capture more primaries and caucuses.)
"And as the economy continues to struggle, maybe Republicans are warming up to Romney's 'turnaround artist' attributes," added Conda referring to Romney's comfort with economic issues dating back to his days as a head of the investment firm Bain Capital.
"His profile has matured nicely, largely as the result of his willingness to focus on helping rebuild the party as well as focus on substantive issues," explained strategic communications consultant Kevin Madden, who was national press spokesman for Romney's 2008 campaign. "Also, the current matrix of issues and challenges facing the country are ones that he has an identifiable record of success on, namely the economy, health care, budget reform and the need for fiscal accountability."
But Romney isn't at the top of the GOP pile yet.One reason for that drop is that Romney has made his most significant gains among self-identified independents: 44% now view him favorably compared to 25% who view him unfavorably. Last February those numbers were practically flipped when just 29% of independents viewed him favorably and 46% viewed him unfavorably.
"I was very encouraged by the independents' data," said Madden. "After all, Obama's real base is the big middle."
Smelling the Heat - Carville: GOP Could Come Back Big in 2010... Yu betcha ...
(Newsmax).Democratic strategist James Carville has sent out an e-mail for the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee warning Democrats that the GOP could rebound in 2010 and take over the Senate just as they did in 1994.
In 1994, Carville writes, "things were a lot like they are today. A young, exciting president. Big majorities in Congress. We figured we'd have plenty of time to build the America we wanted.
"You know what happened next. Fifty-four new Republicans elected in the House. Eight new Republicans elected in the Senate. Our moment of opportunity had passed.
"Republicans are hoping 2010 is the new 1994. But heck, they don't need eight new senators. If they gain just one or two, it's going to be that much easier for them to scuttle vital legislation."
In 1994, Carville writes, "things were a lot like they are today. A young, exciting president. Big majorities in Congress. We figured we'd have plenty of time to build the America we wanted.
"You know what happened next. Fifty-four new Republicans elected in the House. Eight new Republicans elected in the Senate. Our moment of opportunity had passed.
"Republicans are hoping 2010 is the new 1994. But heck, they don't need eight new senators. If they gain just one or two, it's going to be that much easier for them to scuttle vital legislation."
Romney is Gaining in the most important Field that is key to Victory
(Newsweek-The Gaggle). Who stands to benefit the most from Mark Sanford’s troubles? Well, amid all the news yesterday, we missed this new poll the finds Mitt Romney's numbers are inching up, not just among Republicans but the general public According to the latest Pew survey, 40 percent of those surveyed viewed Romney “favorably”. Still, Sarah Palin remains the most popular GOP figure, with a 45 percent favorable rating. Among Republicans alone, Palin is WAY more popular than Romney, with a 73 percent favorable rating compared to Romney’s 57 percent.
The good news for Romney: While she remains enormously popular among Republicans, Palin’s numbers have been pretty steady since last fall, while Romney is moving up. According to Pew, Romney has made equal gains among both conservative Republicans and those who describe themselves as moderate or liberal Republicans. If there is a push to move the party toward the middle—as some suggest the GOP should do in order to be more competitive with Barack Obama—Romney seems to be the candidate best positioned to benefit from that change.
But what will Romney’s message be? With some exceptions, the Massachusetts governor has largely been laying low lately, which is a smart political move. We’ve seen him talking out talking about the economy and the dangers of Obama’s spending habits, but Romney does not seem to be positioning himself to win over social conservatives as he did in the last campaign—although it is still very early. Pew finds that Romney has made his biggest gain among so-called independent voters. Back in 2008, just 29 percent of that important voting bloc had a favorable view of Romney, while 46 percent didn’t like him. Today, those numbers have-- to use a phrase that haunted Romney during the campaign--flip-flopped. Now, 44 percent of independents view Romney favorably. Those are important stats for a party looking to mount a strong opponent against Obama.
The good news for Romney: While she remains enormously popular among Republicans, Palin’s numbers have been pretty steady since last fall, while Romney is moving up. According to Pew, Romney has made equal gains among both conservative Republicans and those who describe themselves as moderate or liberal Republicans. If there is a push to move the party toward the middle—as some suggest the GOP should do in order to be more competitive with Barack Obama—Romney seems to be the candidate best positioned to benefit from that change.
But what will Romney’s message be? With some exceptions, the Massachusetts governor has largely been laying low lately, which is a smart political move. We’ve seen him talking out talking about the economy and the dangers of Obama’s spending habits, but Romney does not seem to be positioning himself to win over social conservatives as he did in the last campaign—although it is still very early. Pew finds that Romney has made his biggest gain among so-called independent voters. Back in 2008, just 29 percent of that important voting bloc had a favorable view of Romney, while 46 percent didn’t like him. Today, those numbers have-- to use a phrase that haunted Romney during the campaign--flip-flopped. Now, 44 percent of independents view Romney favorably. Those are important stats for a party looking to mount a strong opponent against Obama.
Awesome Defensive Palin:"John Kerry, why the long face?"
Speaking to a group of servicemen in Kosovo, Gov. Sarah Palin responded to a crack made by Sen. John Kerry earlier this week. Sen. Kerry joked he wished Palin went missing along with Sanford: "Too bad," he said, "if a governor had to go missing it couldn't have been the governor of Alaska. You know, Sarah Palin."
"He looked quite frustrated and he looked so sad," she said. "I just wanted to reach out to the TV and say 'John Kerry, why the long face?'," she concluded.
The sturdy Mitt Drive - Romney Doing everything Right
(The Atlantic).The prevailing narrative today is that Romney has risen to the top of the 2012 Invisible Primary because he's the last man standing.
True, Romney hasn't made any obvious mistakes. But his rising standing is a consequence of decisions he's made, and not just a result of the luck.
Romney is picking and choosing his battles. He shares an Obama-esque disdain for the superficial daily scrum that cable channels whip up. It's a credit to his communications team that he can appear on television once every two or three weeks and seem to be part of the dialog. When Romney has something to say, he'll find a venue to say it. On auto restructuring, on the Republican stimulus plan, on a free market approach to health care, on the Employee Free Choice Act, and on missile defense, Romney matches his opinions to key constituencies, and he always draws respectful news coverage.
He's not consumed by anger or sarcasm. Romney can get angry, and he can be sarcastic. But his public appearances today are calm, measured; his interviews are given in dignified settings. Romney's political team believes that the public has no appetite for presidential adversaries who are driven by personal dislike. To Romney, this dignifies the office of the presidency.
He's not frantic about the invisible primary. Obviously, Romney has a base of staff, donors and supporters, and he doesn't need to panic about grabbing strategists and consultants who might defect from other potential candidates. He keeps in touch with key supporters in Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina and the other early states, but his travel schedule is not burdened by a need to concentrate his time and resources on rebuilding lists, raising money and rebuilding his reputation.
Pew finds that Romney's fav/unfav ratio is pretty darned good. The same guy who was pegged as a flip-flopper, as a fake (or too real) social conservative, as a guy who said what people wanted to hear... is relatively popular. Plenty of time has passed, and a very distracting election probably helped. But Romney did himself many favors as the 2008 presidential campaign wound down. He got out of the race at the right moment, letting arch-enemy Mike Huckabee try and rally the right against John McCain. He became the establishment frontrunner to be McCain's vice presidential selection, and when McCain didn't pick him, he became the '08 ticket's chief economics spokesman He turned over his scheduling to McCain's team, winning goodwill. He's rehabbed his image fairly successfully.
He's kept in touch with the right people, including McCain. While it's known that the two former rivals have had dinner since the election, it's not well known that McCain occasionally calls upon Romney for policy advice. As Romney slowly expands his circle, his inner ring advisers remain intact, including every significant member of his Massachusetts gubernatorial staff, his communications team, and many of his consultants. Romney inspires loyalty like no other potential 2012 presidential candidate.
He's helping the party. His donor base and personal wealth allow him to be a generous fundraiser for other candidates, campaigning for Republican gubernatorial candidate Chris Christie in New Jersey, Bob McDonnell in Virginia, Meg Whitman in California and his friend Bob Bennet in Utah.
There's a sense among Romney regulars that the stuff that tripped him up in 2008 will not be relevant if he decides to run in 2012. The number of people who will oppose him because of his faith probably won't grow. He made his rookie mistakes in 2008.
True, Romney hasn't made any obvious mistakes. But his rising standing is a consequence of decisions he's made, and not just a result of the luck.
Romney is picking and choosing his battles. He shares an Obama-esque disdain for the superficial daily scrum that cable channels whip up. It's a credit to his communications team that he can appear on television once every two or three weeks and seem to be part of the dialog. When Romney has something to say, he'll find a venue to say it. On auto restructuring, on the Republican stimulus plan, on a free market approach to health care, on the Employee Free Choice Act, and on missile defense, Romney matches his opinions to key constituencies, and he always draws respectful news coverage.
He's not consumed by anger or sarcasm. Romney can get angry, and he can be sarcastic. But his public appearances today are calm, measured; his interviews are given in dignified settings. Romney's political team believes that the public has no appetite for presidential adversaries who are driven by personal dislike. To Romney, this dignifies the office of the presidency.
He's not frantic about the invisible primary. Obviously, Romney has a base of staff, donors and supporters, and he doesn't need to panic about grabbing strategists and consultants who might defect from other potential candidates. He keeps in touch with key supporters in Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina and the other early states, but his travel schedule is not burdened by a need to concentrate his time and resources on rebuilding lists, raising money and rebuilding his reputation.
Pew finds that Romney's fav/unfav ratio is pretty darned good. The same guy who was pegged as a flip-flopper, as a fake (or too real) social conservative, as a guy who said what people wanted to hear... is relatively popular. Plenty of time has passed, and a very distracting election probably helped. But Romney did himself many favors as the 2008 presidential campaign wound down. He got out of the race at the right moment, letting arch-enemy Mike Huckabee try and rally the right against John McCain. He became the establishment frontrunner to be McCain's vice presidential selection, and when McCain didn't pick him, he became the '08 ticket's chief economics spokesman He turned over his scheduling to McCain's team, winning goodwill. He's rehabbed his image fairly successfully.
He's kept in touch with the right people, including McCain. While it's known that the two former rivals have had dinner since the election, it's not well known that McCain occasionally calls upon Romney for policy advice. As Romney slowly expands his circle, his inner ring advisers remain intact, including every significant member of his Massachusetts gubernatorial staff, his communications team, and many of his consultants. Romney inspires loyalty like no other potential 2012 presidential candidate.
He's helping the party. His donor base and personal wealth allow him to be a generous fundraiser for other candidates, campaigning for Republican gubernatorial candidate Chris Christie in New Jersey, Bob McDonnell in Virginia, Meg Whitman in California and his friend Bob Bennet in Utah.
There's a sense among Romney regulars that the stuff that tripped him up in 2008 will not be relevant if he decides to run in 2012. The number of people who will oppose him because of his faith probably won't grow. He made his rookie mistakes in 2008.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Israeli FM Lieberman slams Obama: The fact that this regime continues to be a partner for dialogue is a bad message,shows bad guys are winners.
In his first major interview, which he gave to TIME, the Foreign Minister, who says he shrugs off "political correctness," came out swinging. He lambasted the West for not giving more support to Iranian reformists. "This really fanatic extremist regime is still in power, and the young people who are ready to fight and die for change are not getting any real support from the West," he said. "The fact that this regime continues to be an acceptable partner for dialogue is really a bad message. It shows the bad guys are winners."
Lieberman also criticized the Obama Administration for demanding that Israel halt construction in Jewish settlements inside the Palestinian territories, saying it is a "mistake." He added, "We are trying to formulate some understanding with the U.S. We don't speak [with the Americans] of building new settlements. We don't speak of expansion. We try to build only within existing construction lines." In quiet but forceful tones, Lieberman said, "We cannot suffocate our own people. You know, babies are born. People get married. We cannot stop life. People want to build a synagogue or a kindergarten." (See pictures of 60 years of Israel.)
Lieberman also claimed that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was part of a broader "clash of values between civilizations," and that it was not the key for bringing peace to the Middle East, as many believe. "With 9/11 and terrorist acts in London, Madrid, Bali, in Russia, I can't see any linkage with the Israeli-Palestinian problem," the Moldava native told TIME, speaking in Russian-accented English.
Lieberman also criticized the Obama Administration for demanding that Israel halt construction in Jewish settlements inside the Palestinian territories, saying it is a "mistake." He added, "We are trying to formulate some understanding with the U.S. We don't speak [with the Americans] of building new settlements. We don't speak of expansion. We try to build only within existing construction lines." In quiet but forceful tones, Lieberman said, "We cannot suffocate our own people. You know, babies are born. People get married. We cannot stop life. People want to build a synagogue or a kindergarten." (See pictures of 60 years of Israel.)
Lieberman also claimed that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was part of a broader "clash of values between civilizations," and that it was not the key for bringing peace to the Middle East, as many believe. "With 9/11 and terrorist acts in London, Madrid, Bali, in Russia, I can't see any linkage with the Israeli-Palestinian problem," the Moldava native told TIME, speaking in Russian-accented English.
Obama's Too perfect image can crack down voters
(Politico).Being too perfect can be dangerous for politicians. Just ask Mitt Romney. The former Massachusetts governor and GOP presidential candidate is a spectacularly good-looking man, extremely wealthy, well-spoken and accomplished in his professional career. And a segment of the voting public hated him for it.
Says Republican media strategist Mark McKinnon, “President Obama and his team should be careful about trying to be perfect. Voters are suspicious of perfect. They actually prefer someone who is human. And has flaws. Like them.”
Michael Feldman, a former senior adviser to Vice President Al Gore, says White Houses sometimes need to “let a little air out of that bubble” by reminding voters of a president’s foibles. “Shining a little light on a flaw is not a bad thing,” Feldman said.
Says Republican media strategist Mark McKinnon, “President Obama and his team should be careful about trying to be perfect. Voters are suspicious of perfect. They actually prefer someone who is human. And has flaws. Like them.”
Michael Feldman, a former senior adviser to Vice President Al Gore, says White Houses sometimes need to “let a little air out of that bubble” by reminding voters of a president’s foibles. “Shining a little light on a flaw is not a bad thing,” Feldman said.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Twitter vs. Blackberry President - "When history came to stare him in the face, Obama lowered his eyes."
(Ari Shavit-Haaretz.com)Barack Obama is the king of the world. The mega-celebrity of the 21st century enjoys unprecedented affection all over the universe and solid political support in the United States. His party controls both houses of Congress, and he himself has the American media swooning. With the exception of one pariah vice president (Dick Cheney) and one pariah television network (Fox), nobody dares to criticize him.
Obama conquered the world this spring, and the world is still conquered. Since World War II there has not been a president like Obama in the White House who can do whatever he desires in Washington.
And yet, this past week has cracked the U.S. president. The paralysis that seized the king of the world in the face of Iranian evil has exposed a scratch in his Teflon coating for the first time.
The warrior of Chicago's acceptance of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's religious fascism is hard to digest. It is hard to understand and excuse the exaggerated caution exercised by the leader of the free world with the despots of Tehran. It is even harder to forgive the way he turned his back on the demonstrators for freedom who risked their lives - and sometimes even sacrificed them - for the values he is supposed to represent. The Blackberry president did not heed the distress of the Twitter rebels. In his first test Obama stumbled morally.
The reason Obama behaved as he did is simple: George W. Bush. Obama the statesman has been guided by his determination to be the opposite of his predecessor.
Bush entered Iraq, so Obama will leave Iraq. Bush established Guantanamo, so Obama will close Guantanamo. Bush approved torture, so Obama forbids torture. Bush was hostile to Hugo Chavez, so Obama is chummy with the Venezuelan president. Bush threatened the Saudi king, so Obama bowed down before the Saudi king. Bush demanded that the Arab-Muslim world change, so Obama accepts it as is. Bush believed that the fate of despotic Islamic regimes should be the same as that of despotic Soviet regimes, so Obama believes that despotic Islamic regimes are no less legitimate than patronizing white democracies.
It is entirely clear what would have happened this week had Bush still been president. He would have sided determinedly with the friends of Neda Agha-Soltan and condemned Khamenei and President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. He would have made it clear that the United States will have nothing to do with an evil regime that is trying to obtain nuclear weapons while oppressing its citizens. He would have exploited the historic opportunity to isolate the ayatollahs and undermine their rule.
But just because Bush would have behaved that way, Obama did the opposite. He stammered and hesitated and apologized, and did nothing. When history came to stare him in the face, Obama lowered his eyes.
Obama conquered the world this spring, and the world is still conquered. Since World War II there has not been a president like Obama in the White House who can do whatever he desires in Washington.
And yet, this past week has cracked the U.S. president. The paralysis that seized the king of the world in the face of Iranian evil has exposed a scratch in his Teflon coating for the first time.
The warrior of Chicago's acceptance of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's religious fascism is hard to digest. It is hard to understand and excuse the exaggerated caution exercised by the leader of the free world with the despots of Tehran. It is even harder to forgive the way he turned his back on the demonstrators for freedom who risked their lives - and sometimes even sacrificed them - for the values he is supposed to represent. The Blackberry president did not heed the distress of the Twitter rebels. In his first test Obama stumbled morally.
The reason Obama behaved as he did is simple: George W. Bush. Obama the statesman has been guided by his determination to be the opposite of his predecessor.
Bush entered Iraq, so Obama will leave Iraq. Bush established Guantanamo, so Obama will close Guantanamo. Bush approved torture, so Obama forbids torture. Bush was hostile to Hugo Chavez, so Obama is chummy with the Venezuelan president. Bush threatened the Saudi king, so Obama bowed down before the Saudi king. Bush demanded that the Arab-Muslim world change, so Obama accepts it as is. Bush believed that the fate of despotic Islamic regimes should be the same as that of despotic Soviet regimes, so Obama believes that despotic Islamic regimes are no less legitimate than patronizing white democracies.
It is entirely clear what would have happened this week had Bush still been president. He would have sided determinedly with the friends of Neda Agha-Soltan and condemned Khamenei and President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. He would have made it clear that the United States will have nothing to do with an evil regime that is trying to obtain nuclear weapons while oppressing its citizens. He would have exploited the historic opportunity to isolate the ayatollahs and undermine their rule.
But just because Bush would have behaved that way, Obama did the opposite. He stammered and hesitated and apologized, and did nothing. When history came to stare him in the face, Obama lowered his eyes.
Netanyahu trying to reach compromise on settlements with U.S. By
(Haaretz).- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is continuing with efforts to advance compromise formulas that will win support in the Obama administration on the issue of settlement construction. Ahead of the visit to Washington by Defense Minister Ehud Barak, Netanyahu is planning to propose that increased construction in the settlements be allowed for "natural growth."
This is the latest idea in addition to the possibility of a temporary hiatus in construction, as reported yesterday by Haaretz.
During his tour of Europe, Netanyahu has so far heard criticism on the issue of the settlements from leaders considered "friends" - starting with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, and yesterday from French President Nicolas Sarkozy.
"I am your friend and therefore I am speaking honestly," Sarkozy told Netanyahu during their meeting at the Elysee Palace. "You must conduct confidence building measures and the first must be the absolute freeze on construction in the settlements."
Netanyahu and his aides are trying to formulate a compromise solution that will appeal to the U.S. administration. The proposal that the prime minister is now considering, which Ariel Sharon had previously put forward, is to carry out a "territorial freeze" to settlement activity. In other words, the settlements will not expand onto more territory in an effort to meet the growing needs of settler population without leading to new "facts on the ground," which would stand as an obstacle to the creation of a future Palestinian state.
Under this proposal, the only new structures in settlements would be for public functions, like kindergartens or schools.
"It is possible to resolve the territorial aspect of settlement construction," Netanyahu said yesterday following his meeting with Sarkozy. "It is possible to find a formula but this requires good will of all sides. What is important is to enable people to live normal lives and that is what I am explaining to the Americans."
However, sources close to Netanyahu have said that they are uncertain whether the Americans will make do with a "territorial freeze" or whether the Obama administration will insist on a "demographic freeze" as well.
This is the latest idea in addition to the possibility of a temporary hiatus in construction, as reported yesterday by Haaretz.
During his tour of Europe, Netanyahu has so far heard criticism on the issue of the settlements from leaders considered "friends" - starting with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, and yesterday from French President Nicolas Sarkozy.
"I am your friend and therefore I am speaking honestly," Sarkozy told Netanyahu during their meeting at the Elysee Palace. "You must conduct confidence building measures and the first must be the absolute freeze on construction in the settlements."
Netanyahu and his aides are trying to formulate a compromise solution that will appeal to the U.S. administration. The proposal that the prime minister is now considering, which Ariel Sharon had previously put forward, is to carry out a "territorial freeze" to settlement activity. In other words, the settlements will not expand onto more territory in an effort to meet the growing needs of settler population without leading to new "facts on the ground," which would stand as an obstacle to the creation of a future Palestinian state.
Under this proposal, the only new structures in settlements would be for public functions, like kindergartens or schools.
"It is possible to resolve the territorial aspect of settlement construction," Netanyahu said yesterday following his meeting with Sarkozy. "It is possible to find a formula but this requires good will of all sides. What is important is to enable people to live normal lives and that is what I am explaining to the Americans."
However, sources close to Netanyahu have said that they are uncertain whether the Americans will make do with a "territorial freeze" or whether the Obama administration will insist on a "demographic freeze" as well.
Independents Warning for Obama: Mitt is our Guy
The shifting attitude among independent voters, in fact, is the most significant change to emerge from a Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll, completed just last week. In that survey, Mr. Obama's job-approval rating among Americans overall slipped a notch, to 56% from 61% in April. That's not much of a drop, and is in keeping with the pattern for a new president at this point in his term.
But the slide was much more pronounced among self-identified purely independent voters -- that is, Americans who express no loyalty to either party.
Among these people, who tend to reside in the middle of the ideological spectrum, the president's job-approval rating fell to 45% from 60% in April.
In particular, the survey suggests, independents are developing gnawing fears about government spending. They are markedly more worried about the federal budget deficit as an economic issue than are Americans in general, and they are more likely to be skeptical of Mr. Obama's plan for a health-care overhaul.
Above all, though, independents are starting to simply view the president as more liberal than they expected. The share of independents who say Mr. Obama is a liberal has risen to a substantial 64% from 46% two months ago. A large portion of them actually classify him as "very liberal." That's a particular problem because independents tend to view themselves as center-right -- 78% call themselves moderate or conservative -- so they see a president moving to the left of where they are.
"This is a clear and important danger for him," says Mr. Hart, the Democratic pollster. Independents, he adds, don't seem to worry so much that Mr. Obama is trying to tackle too many issues, but rather that "this administration is leaning much more left than they expected" as he handles those issues.
From the Pew reaserch poll:
The turnaround is largely fueled by a change of opinion among independents—in February 2008 just 29% of independents had a favorable view while 46% had a negative impression. Now that balance is reversed with 44% viewing him favorable and just 25% unfavorably.
But the slide was much more pronounced among self-identified purely independent voters -- that is, Americans who express no loyalty to either party.
Among these people, who tend to reside in the middle of the ideological spectrum, the president's job-approval rating fell to 45% from 60% in April.
In particular, the survey suggests, independents are developing gnawing fears about government spending. They are markedly more worried about the federal budget deficit as an economic issue than are Americans in general, and they are more likely to be skeptical of Mr. Obama's plan for a health-care overhaul.
Above all, though, independents are starting to simply view the president as more liberal than they expected. The share of independents who say Mr. Obama is a liberal has risen to a substantial 64% from 46% two months ago. A large portion of them actually classify him as "very liberal." That's a particular problem because independents tend to view themselves as center-right -- 78% call themselves moderate or conservative -- so they see a president moving to the left of where they are.
"This is a clear and important danger for him," says Mr. Hart, the Democratic pollster. Independents, he adds, don't seem to worry so much that Mr. Obama is trying to tackle too many issues, but rather that "this administration is leaning much more left than they expected" as he handles those issues.
From the Pew reaserch poll:
The turnaround is largely fueled by a change of opinion among independents—in February 2008 just 29% of independents had a favorable view while 46% had a negative impression. Now that balance is reversed with 44% viewing him favorable and just 25% unfavorably.
Midterm 2010 election is a better Chance for a Republican comeback
(POLITICO 44).For the first time since their 2006 election drubbing, top Republicans see signs — however faint — of a political resurgence over the next year.
At first blush, this sounds absurd. After all, polls show the GOP more unpopular than ever, But several trends suggest this optimism might not be as far-fetched as it seems.
Polls show that the GOP is wise to focus most of its attacks on spending, government intervention and job losses. (Those same polls show the public has low regard for Republicans on these issues, but it's a significant development that President Barack Obama's numbers are slipping in these areas, too.)
Here's a look at why a GOP comeback is plausible:
Polls show that Obama's chief vulnerability is public concern over the soaring deficit. And as the sticker shock of a trillion-dollar-plus health care plan takes hold, these concerns are only likely to grow.
Squabbling over much else, Republicans are emboldened and united on this issue. In the House, they banded together last week to oppose a supplemental war funding bill because it included $5 billion for the International Monetary Fund — what one GOP member called a "global bailout." They are gearing up to oppose Democratic plans to increase domestic spending this summer and fall.
And, as is key in political debates, Republicans have distilled their argument down to a bumper sticker slogan: "President Obama spends too much, taxes too much and borrows too much."
Expect to hear that refrain in upcoming spending fights — and with regularity in the midterm elections.
Obama promised his stimulus plan would keep unemployment below 10 percent, and some of his advisers said it would remain below 8 percent. But now the president himself says it will hit 10 percent this year.
The administration's technique of incorporating "jobs saved" into its accounting is being met with increased skepticism — and is unlikely to resonate if unemployment lines run long.
"I think his biggest vulnerability right now is that unemployment is going to exceed 10 percent and be there for some time," said House Minority Whip Eric Cantor (R-Va.). "The stimulus bill was meant to sustain and create new jobs. And it hasn't done it."
Beyond the Beltway, many states aren't feeling the impact of the stimulus. According to the Labor Department, 48 states saw worsened economic conditions in May. And eight states — including population giants Florida and California — saw record unemployment rates.
Forget every article you've read about just what policy reforms or new leaders the GOP needs to come back. If this economy is worse off a year from now, that is what Republicans will run on. In politics, the resurrection of the out party almost always comes from the failure or excesses of the in party.
"The voters are likely to use Republicans as a check" in 2010, said former Rep. Tom Davis (R-Va.). "Even if they don't fully support us, they can give Republicans a protest vote.
At first blush, this sounds absurd. After all, polls show the GOP more unpopular than ever, But several trends suggest this optimism might not be as far-fetched as it seems.
Polls show that the GOP is wise to focus most of its attacks on spending, government intervention and job losses. (Those same polls show the public has low regard for Republicans on these issues, but it's a significant development that President Barack Obama's numbers are slipping in these areas, too.)
Here's a look at why a GOP comeback is plausible:
Polls show that Obama's chief vulnerability is public concern over the soaring deficit. And as the sticker shock of a trillion-dollar-plus health care plan takes hold, these concerns are only likely to grow.
Squabbling over much else, Republicans are emboldened and united on this issue. In the House, they banded together last week to oppose a supplemental war funding bill because it included $5 billion for the International Monetary Fund — what one GOP member called a "global bailout." They are gearing up to oppose Democratic plans to increase domestic spending this summer and fall.
And, as is key in political debates, Republicans have distilled their argument down to a bumper sticker slogan: "President Obama spends too much, taxes too much and borrows too much."
Expect to hear that refrain in upcoming spending fights — and with regularity in the midterm elections.
Obama promised his stimulus plan would keep unemployment below 10 percent, and some of his advisers said it would remain below 8 percent. But now the president himself says it will hit 10 percent this year.
The administration's technique of incorporating "jobs saved" into its accounting is being met with increased skepticism — and is unlikely to resonate if unemployment lines run long.
"I think his biggest vulnerability right now is that unemployment is going to exceed 10 percent and be there for some time," said House Minority Whip Eric Cantor (R-Va.). "The stimulus bill was meant to sustain and create new jobs. And it hasn't done it."
Beyond the Beltway, many states aren't feeling the impact of the stimulus. According to the Labor Department, 48 states saw worsened economic conditions in May. And eight states — including population giants Florida and California — saw record unemployment rates.
Forget every article you've read about just what policy reforms or new leaders the GOP needs to come back. If this economy is worse off a year from now, that is what Republicans will run on. In politics, the resurrection of the out party almost always comes from the failure or excesses of the in party.
"The voters are likely to use Republicans as a check" in 2010, said former Rep. Tom Davis (R-Va.). "Even if they don't fully support us, they can give Republicans a protest vote.
Sanford admites Affair - makes the Road clear for the most Pure GOP candidate Mitt Romney
(Mcclatchy). South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford aknowledged Wednesday that he was carrying on an affiar with a woman in Argentina when he disappeared from his office last week, only to resurface this morning.
Sanford said he would resign as chairman of the Republican Governors Association and asked for forgiveness from his wife and four sons.
At several points in his news conference, Sanford appeared to be on the verge of tears. He cited his religious beliefs several times and begged forgiveness from friends and associates.
He left it unclear whether he and his wife would separate. "I don't know how you want to define that. I'm here and she's there," he said, referring to his vacation home on Sullivan's Island. "I guess in a formal sense we are not."
"I have developed a relationship with what started as a dear dear friend from Argentina. It began very innocently as I expect many of these things do, just casual email back and forth," Sanford said. "But here recently this last year developed into something much more."
Sanford said he would resign as chairman of the Republican Governors Association and asked for forgiveness from his wife and four sons.
At several points in his news conference, Sanford appeared to be on the verge of tears. He cited his religious beliefs several times and begged forgiveness from friends and associates.
He left it unclear whether he and his wife would separate. "I don't know how you want to define that. I'm here and she's there," he said, referring to his vacation home on Sullivan's Island. "I guess in a formal sense we are not."
"I have developed a relationship with what started as a dear dear friend from Argentina. It began very innocently as I expect many of these things do, just casual email back and forth," Sanford said. "But here recently this last year developed into something much more."
CELEBRITY OF THE USA - Angelina Jolie wants to run for U.S. President
(Dailyexpress).ANGELINA Jolie is thinking of turning her attention to politics with a view to ending up in the White House, it has been revealed.
The actress, a UN goodwill ambassador for the past eight years, has become increasingly focused on humanitarian work and is said to be keen to make the leap into politics,She is considering following fellow actors Arnold Schwarzenegger into politics and Ronald Reagan into the White House.
Although an admirer of new US President Barack Obama she has never officially come out as a Republican or Democrat.
A friend said: “Ange has admitted she’s getting bored with Hollywood. She said she’s now got her sights set on Washington.
“She is passionate about people’s rights, war and justice and thinks she can get more hands-on and make even more of a difference by getting into politics. She admires Obama and thinks she could make a big difference too if she were in his position.”
Angelina, who just recently dethroned Oprah Winfrey as the world’s most powerful celebrity in a list compiled by Forbes magazine, has six adopted and biological children with partner Brad Pitt.
She has been filming new action movie Salt for the past couple of months but finds herself ever more drawn to the political arena.
The friend continues: “I would place a huge wager on her becoming the first female president in the next 20 years. When Ange sets her mind on something, she goes all out to do it.
The actress, a UN goodwill ambassador for the past eight years, has become increasingly focused on humanitarian work and is said to be keen to make the leap into politics,She is considering following fellow actors Arnold Schwarzenegger into politics and Ronald Reagan into the White House.
Although an admirer of new US President Barack Obama she has never officially come out as a Republican or Democrat.
A friend said: “Ange has admitted she’s getting bored with Hollywood. She said she’s now got her sights set on Washington.
“She is passionate about people’s rights, war and justice and thinks she can get more hands-on and make even more of a difference by getting into politics. She admires Obama and thinks she could make a big difference too if she were in his position.”
Angelina, who just recently dethroned Oprah Winfrey as the world’s most powerful celebrity in a list compiled by Forbes magazine, has six adopted and biological children with partner Brad Pitt.
She has been filming new action movie Salt for the past couple of months but finds herself ever more drawn to the political arena.
The friend continues: “I would place a huge wager on her becoming the first female president in the next 20 years. When Ange sets her mind on something, she goes all out to do it.
In the GOP field Romney seems to be do everything right-Run but not running
(Politicalwire).As South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford (R) and Sen. John Ensign (R-NV) work overtime to take themselves out of contention for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination, one candidate seems to be doing everything right.
First Read: "By process of elimination, the potential 2012 candidate who has probably had the best five months is Mitt Romney, who has delivered a few hard-hitting speeches at Obama but has largely stayed out of the spotlight. And that very well could be the lesson to this story. After all, both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton did their best to stay away from the presidential buzz in 2005-2006. We didn't even know Obama was thinking about a presidential bid until right before the midterms, and Clinton didn't set foot in Iowa and New Hampshire until after she announced she was running for president in January 2007. On the other hand, John Edwards was running for president as soon as the 2004 contest ended, and that didn't work out so great for him..."
First Read: "By process of elimination, the potential 2012 candidate who has probably had the best five months is Mitt Romney, who has delivered a few hard-hitting speeches at Obama but has largely stayed out of the spotlight. And that very well could be the lesson to this story. After all, both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton did their best to stay away from the presidential buzz in 2005-2006. We didn't even know Obama was thinking about a presidential bid until right before the midterms, and Clinton didn't set foot in Iowa and New Hampshire until after she announced she was running for president in January 2007. On the other hand, John Edwards was running for president as soon as the 2004 contest ended, and that didn't work out so great for him..."
MITT on the ascendancy - Romney's public Image Improves
(Pew research).Former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney has seen his favorability ratings improve and now enjoys a positive balance of opinion among the general public: 40% rate him favorably, 28% unfavorably. This marks a reversal of opinion from February 2008, during the latter stages of the GOP primary campaign, when just 30% viewed him favorably and 44% expressed an unfavorable opinion.
The latest national survey by the Pew Research Center for the People & the Press, conducted June 10-14 among 1,502 adults reached on landlines and cell phones, finds that impressions of Sarah Palin have not changed much since the presidential campaign. Palin continues to be divisive figure among the general public, with about as many saying they have an unfavorable impression (44%) as a favorable view (45%) of the Alaska governor.
Among Republicans, however, the balance of opinion about Palin is more positive than it is regarding Romney or other leading GOP figures, Newt Gingrich and Michael Steele. More than seven-in-ten Republicans (73%) express a favorable opinion of Palin while just 17% have an unfavorable opinion. Romney, Gingrich and especially Steele are less familiar figures – among the public overall and Republicans – than is Palin. While comparable percentages of Republicans rate Palin and the other Republicans unfavorably, far more view Palin favorably. And Palin continues to be overwhelmingly popular with key parts of the GOP base – white evangelical Republicans (84% favorable) and conservative Republicans (80% favorable).
Since February 2008, shortly before he abandoned his race for the GOP presidential nomination, opinion of Romney has improved across most political and demographic groups, but the shift has been particularly pronounced among independents. In February 2008, just 29% of independents had a positive impression of Romney while 46% had a negative view. Today, that balance is reversed: 44% view Romney favorably and 25% unfavorably.
Positive opinions among both Democrats and Republicans have increased by eight points since early 2008. Among Republicans, Romney has made identical nine-point gains in favorability among conservative Republicans and moderate and liberal Republicans; currently, 61% of conservative Republicans and 52% of moderate and liberal members of the GOP express positive opinions of Romney.
Romney’s favorable ratings have not changed significantly among white non-Hispanic evangelical Republicans; 54% have a favorable opinion now, compared with 52% in February 2008. Among all other Republicans, by contrast, positive opinions of Romney have increased by 11 points, while negative opinions have fallen considerably (from 31% to 16%).
Mitt Romney on CBS early show:Better late then never
Watch CBS Videos Online
(AP) — Mitt Romney is giving President Barack Obama higher marks now for his response to civil unrest and a government crackdown in Iran.
Romney said in a nationally broadcast interview from Salt Lake City that he's glad Obama "finally did rise to the occasion here."
The former Massachusetts governor said on CBS's "The Early Show" Wednesday he feels Obama should have spoken sooner in harsh terms about the government's response to large-scale demonstrations in the wake of a disputed presidential election.
But now that Obama has done so, Romney said "I'm very pleased that the president is getting the message out." Romney said he feels "there is a need for people to understand this is not a legitimate regime, that this is a sham democracy."
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Gimmi a break ..One at a time.... IN 55 MINUTES, OBAMA DIDN'T MENTION IRAQ, AFGHANISTAN, TROOPS, SOLDIERS OR WAR!
(Politico).A couple of surprising words were missing from President Barack Obama’s 55-minute news conference on Wednesday: “Iraq” — and “Afghanistan.”
Also MIA: “Korea,” “Pakistan,” “soldiers,” “surge” and “war” — as well as the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines.
The omissions were partly a result of the short attention span of the press, which did not ask about those topics after the president did not mention them in his opening statement.
But the silence on those subjects also provides a striking illustration of one of the singular differences between Obama and his predecessor.
Whereas President George W. Bush invoked his status as wartime commander in chief so often that it seemed like a crutch, Obama has much more of a domestic focus, and resists rhetorical calls to arms like “war on terror.”
One White House official said that the topics of news conferences and speeches are often dictated by events.
"That’s a poignant thing for him,” the official said. “He’s a very confident and optimistic person. But it’s a sobering thing each day to remind yourself of the struggles that people are going through. I think that’s why he does it, frankly — because it’s so easy to get isolated, and everything becomes very clinical.”
Administration officials say that while Obama took a while to adjust to the role of a presidential candidate, he has acted authoritatively since his first trip to the Situation Room or The Tank, the secure area of the Joint Chiefs of Staff wing of the Pentagon.
“What was remarkable to all of us was how comfortable he was from the beginning — his willingness to make decisions, his fluency,” Axelrod said. “It’s been kind of a breathtaking thing to watch.”
But don’t be looking for “enemy,” “troops” or “wounded” in the press conference. They aren’t there.
Also MIA: “Korea,” “Pakistan,” “soldiers,” “surge” and “war” — as well as the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines.
The omissions were partly a result of the short attention span of the press, which did not ask about those topics after the president did not mention them in his opening statement.
But the silence on those subjects also provides a striking illustration of one of the singular differences between Obama and his predecessor.
Whereas President George W. Bush invoked his status as wartime commander in chief so often that it seemed like a crutch, Obama has much more of a domestic focus, and resists rhetorical calls to arms like “war on terror.”
One White House official said that the topics of news conferences and speeches are often dictated by events.
"That’s a poignant thing for him,” the official said. “He’s a very confident and optimistic person. But it’s a sobering thing each day to remind yourself of the struggles that people are going through. I think that’s why he does it, frankly — because it’s so easy to get isolated, and everything becomes very clinical.”
Administration officials say that while Obama took a while to adjust to the role of a presidential candidate, he has acted authoritatively since his first trip to the Situation Room or The Tank, the secure area of the Joint Chiefs of Staff wing of the Pentagon.
“What was remarkable to all of us was how comfortable he was from the beginning — his willingness to make decisions, his fluency,” Axelrod said. “It’s been kind of a breathtaking thing to watch.”
But don’t be looking for “enemy,” “troops” or “wounded” in the press conference. They aren’t there.
Jewish Leader Morton Klien: Obama May Be 'Most Hostile President to Israel’
(Newsmax).President Barack Obama’s refusal to take a stand on protests in Iran stands in sharp contrast to demands he has made on Israel, Morton Klein, president of the Zionist Organization of America, says in a Newsmax interview.
“I think he should take a strong stand to support the protesters in Iran who want to transform that society into one that promotes democracy and human rights,” Klein says. ”But while meddling in Israel’s affairs and making specific demands, he explicitly states he refuses to meddle in Iran’s policies and has said almost nothing.”
Klein says leaders of Jewish organizations are rethinking their support of Obama in light of his attitude toward Israel.
“There are many leaders in the organized Jewish world who have privately discussed this issue with me, and say they are deeply concerned about Obama’s actions and policies toward Israel, and now they’re rethinking their support for Obama during the campaign and the election,” says Klein, whose organization of 30,000 members is the oldest pro-Israel group in the country.
Based on the president’s speech in Cairo on June 4 and many of his foreign policy appointments, Klein thinks Obama “may become the most hostile president to Israel ever.”
Obama’s speech was “inimical to Israel and supportive of the stream of false Palestinian Arab claims concerning Israel,” Klein says. “He is relentlessly pressuring Israel while applying virtually almost no pressure on the Palestinian Authority to fulfill its written obligations.”
As a child of survivors of the Holocaust, Klein says he was particularly offended by Obama’s comparison of the suffering of Palestinians with the Nazis’ murder of 6 million Jews during the Holocaust.
“I found this to be an abominable, odious, and ridiculously false analogy,” he says.
Klein disputes Obama’s reference to Palestinian Arabs trying to establish a state for 60 years.
“They could have had a state in 1937,” he says. “They turned it down. They could have had a state in 1948. From 1948 to 1967, when they controlled all of Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem, they never attempted to establish a state. In 2000, they were offered a state on almost all the disputed territories. They turned it down. So this is a completely false claim that they’ve been trying to establish a state for 60 years.”
“I think he should take a strong stand to support the protesters in Iran who want to transform that society into one that promotes democracy and human rights,” Klein says. ”But while meddling in Israel’s affairs and making specific demands, he explicitly states he refuses to meddle in Iran’s policies and has said almost nothing.”
Klein says leaders of Jewish organizations are rethinking their support of Obama in light of his attitude toward Israel.
“There are many leaders in the organized Jewish world who have privately discussed this issue with me, and say they are deeply concerned about Obama’s actions and policies toward Israel, and now they’re rethinking their support for Obama during the campaign and the election,” says Klein, whose organization of 30,000 members is the oldest pro-Israel group in the country.
Based on the president’s speech in Cairo on June 4 and many of his foreign policy appointments, Klein thinks Obama “may become the most hostile president to Israel ever.”
Obama’s speech was “inimical to Israel and supportive of the stream of false Palestinian Arab claims concerning Israel,” Klein says. “He is relentlessly pressuring Israel while applying virtually almost no pressure on the Palestinian Authority to fulfill its written obligations.”
As a child of survivors of the Holocaust, Klein says he was particularly offended by Obama’s comparison of the suffering of Palestinians with the Nazis’ murder of 6 million Jews during the Holocaust.
“I found this to be an abominable, odious, and ridiculously false analogy,” he says.
Klein disputes Obama’s reference to Palestinian Arabs trying to establish a state for 60 years.
“They could have had a state in 1937,” he says. “They turned it down. They could have had a state in 1948. From 1948 to 1967, when they controlled all of Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem, they never attempted to establish a state. In 2000, they were offered a state on almost all the disputed territories. They turned it down. So this is a completely false claim that they’ve been trying to establish a state for 60 years.”
OH REALY? Following GOP Lead, Obama Condemns Iranian Elections: Only I am President of USA
(Newsmax).President Barack Obama on Tuesday declared the United States and the entire world "appalled and outraged" by Iran's violent efforts to crush dissent, a clear toughening of his rhetoric as Republican critics at home pound him as being too passive.
Obama condemned the "threats, beatings and imprisonments of the last few days,I strongly condemn these unjust actions," Obama said in a news conference at the White House.
Obama said his message has been consistent, and he shot back at Republican critics who are calling him timid: "Only I'm the president of the United States."
When asked if his strong language on Tuesday was influenced by pressure from such Republicans as Sens. John McCain and Lindsey Graham, Obama scoffed: "What do you think?"
Obama condemned the "threats, beatings and imprisonments of the last few days,I strongly condemn these unjust actions," Obama said in a news conference at the White House.
Obama said his message has been consistent, and he shot back at Republican critics who are calling him timid: "Only I'm the president of the United States."
When asked if his strong language on Tuesday was influenced by pressure from such Republicans as Sens. John McCain and Lindsey Graham, Obama scoffed: "What do you think?"
Total crap...WH: Iranians uproar for Freedom was created by Cairo speech
(Washington Post).Since taking office, Obama has argued that reclaiming America’s moral authority by ending torture and closing the prison at Guantanamo Bay provides essential diplomatic leverage to influence events in such strategic parts of the world as the Middle East and Central Asia. The speech he delivered to the Islamic world in Cairo eights days before the June 12 Iranian election sought to do that by providing what the president saw as an unvarnished accounting of U.S. policy in Iran, Iraq, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
“We’re trying to promote a foreign policy that advances our interests, not that makes us feel good about ourselves,” said a senior administration official who, like others, declined to be identified, citing the sensitivity of the issue.
Obama’s approach to Iran, including his assertion that the unrest there represents a debate among Iranians unrelated to the United States, is an acknowledgment that a U.S. president’s words have a limited ability to alter foreign events in real time and could do more harm than good. But privately Obama advisers are crediting his Cairo speech for inspiring the protesters, especially the young ones, who are now posing the most direct challenge to the republic’s Islamic authority in its 30-year history.
From Hotair:
This is the most despicable, self-serving, and arrogant spin I’ve seen yet from this White House, and that’s saying something. Obama gave a speech, and suddenly the people of Iran discovered that they’re being ruled by tyrants? Never mind that two weeks passed between the speech and the uprising, and that the very obvious trigger for the unrest was the incompetent manner in which the mullahs rigged the election for Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Never mind the fact that this President took a full week to even sound like a watered-down Nicolas Sarkozy, let alone the leader of the free world.
“We’re trying to promote a foreign policy that advances our interests, not that makes us feel good about ourselves,” said a senior administration official who, like others, declined to be identified, citing the sensitivity of the issue.
Obama’s approach to Iran, including his assertion that the unrest there represents a debate among Iranians unrelated to the United States, is an acknowledgment that a U.S. president’s words have a limited ability to alter foreign events in real time and could do more harm than good. But privately Obama advisers are crediting his Cairo speech for inspiring the protesters, especially the young ones, who are now posing the most direct challenge to the republic’s Islamic authority in its 30-year history.
From Hotair:
This is the most despicable, self-serving, and arrogant spin I’ve seen yet from this White House, and that’s saying something. Obama gave a speech, and suddenly the people of Iran discovered that they’re being ruled by tyrants? Never mind that two weeks passed between the speech and the uprising, and that the very obvious trigger for the unrest was the incompetent manner in which the mullahs rigged the election for Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Never mind the fact that this President took a full week to even sound like a watered-down Nicolas Sarkozy, let alone the leader of the free world.
BoY! where are the Jobs you promised?
House Republican Leader John Boehner (R-OH) has an op-ed in today's Washington Examiner that asks a simple question of the President and his allies in Congress: where are the jobs? Boehner writes: "All year, Democrats have made promises about job creation. If Congress passed the trillion-dollar 'stimulus,' they promised unemployment would not rise above eight percent. "Five months later, unemployment has spiked to 9.4 percent, with President Obama now admitting that he expects it to reach 10 percent later this year. "So what has the 'stimulus' given us? Spending on projects like a new auxiliary runway for powerful Pennsylvania Democratic Rep. John Murtha's 'Airport for No One' - but no jobs. In fact, we've lost almost three million jobs this year."
You can run but you cant Hide - Gov. Sanford is Found
S.C. Gov. Mark Sanford’s staff said this morning that the governor plans to return to his office Wednesday.
Late Monday, his office said the governor was hiking on the Appalachian Trail, ending four days during which staff and state officials said they had not heard from him.
In a statement, Joel Sawyer, Sanford's spokesman said, "Governor Sanford called to check in with his chief of staff this morning. It would be fair to say the governor was somewhat taken aback by all of the interest this trip has gotten.
Mark Sanford
"Given the circumstances and the attention this has garnered, the governor communicated to us that he plans on returning to the office tomorrow.
Neither Sanford’s office nor the State Law Enforcement Division, which provides security for governors, had been able to reach Sanford since he left the mansion Thursday in a black Suburban SUV assigned to his security detail, said state Sen. Jake Knotts , R-Lexington, and three others familiar with the situation, but who declined to be identified.
On Monday, Sawyer would not disclose where on the trail the governor was hiking, nor would he reveal whether Sanford was hiking alone.
Sanford’s last known location was near Atlanta late last week. A mobile telephone tower there picked up a signal from his phone, according to a source familiar with the situation.
Since then, the governor’s state and personal phones had been turned off, and Sanford had not responded to phone or text messages, a source said. Most mobile phones cannot be tracked if they are turned off.
First lady Jenny Sanford said Monday her husband has been gone for several days over Father’s Day weekend and she did not know where.
“He was writing something and wanted some space to get away from the kids,” Jenny Sanford told The Associated Press while vacationing with the couple’s four sons at their Sullivan’s Island beach house.
The two-term governor is chairman of the Republican Governors Association. This spring, Sanford became known nationally as the most outspoken governor who opposed federal stimulus money. That position won Sanford national attention until he lost a court battle.
Sawyer said Monday the governor told staffers late last week where he was going to be.
“Before leaving last week, he let staff know his whereabouts and that he’d be difficult to reach,” Sawyer said in a interview with The State.
In an earlier statement Monday, Sanford’s office said: “Gov. Sanford is taking some time away from the office this week to recharge after the stimulus battle and the legislative session, and to work on a couple of projects that have fallen by the wayside.
“We are not going to discuss the specifics of his travel arrangements or his security arrangements,” the statement said.
Late Monday, his office said the governor was hiking on the Appalachian Trail, ending four days during which staff and state officials said they had not heard from him.
In a statement, Joel Sawyer, Sanford's spokesman said, "Governor Sanford called to check in with his chief of staff this morning. It would be fair to say the governor was somewhat taken aback by all of the interest this trip has gotten.
Mark Sanford
"Given the circumstances and the attention this has garnered, the governor communicated to us that he plans on returning to the office tomorrow.
Neither Sanford’s office nor the State Law Enforcement Division, which provides security for governors, had been able to reach Sanford since he left the mansion Thursday in a black Suburban SUV assigned to his security detail, said state Sen. Jake Knotts , R-Lexington, and three others familiar with the situation, but who declined to be identified.
On Monday, Sawyer would not disclose where on the trail the governor was hiking, nor would he reveal whether Sanford was hiking alone.
Sanford’s last known location was near Atlanta late last week. A mobile telephone tower there picked up a signal from his phone, according to a source familiar with the situation.
Since then, the governor’s state and personal phones had been turned off, and Sanford had not responded to phone or text messages, a source said. Most mobile phones cannot be tracked if they are turned off.
First lady Jenny Sanford said Monday her husband has been gone for several days over Father’s Day weekend and she did not know where.
“He was writing something and wanted some space to get away from the kids,” Jenny Sanford told The Associated Press while vacationing with the couple’s four sons at their Sullivan’s Island beach house.
The two-term governor is chairman of the Republican Governors Association. This spring, Sanford became known nationally as the most outspoken governor who opposed federal stimulus money. That position won Sanford national attention until he lost a court battle.
Sawyer said Monday the governor told staffers late last week where he was going to be.
“Before leaving last week, he let staff know his whereabouts and that he’d be difficult to reach,” Sawyer said in a interview with The State.
In an earlier statement Monday, Sanford’s office said: “Gov. Sanford is taking some time away from the office this week to recharge after the stimulus battle and the legislative session, and to work on a couple of projects that have fallen by the wayside.
“We are not going to discuss the specifics of his travel arrangements or his security arrangements,” the statement said.
Iranian Student On CNN Pleads For Help From President Obama And The International Community
"I have a message to the international community, would you please let me tell it? Americans, European Union, international community, this government was not elected by the majority of Iranians, it is illegal, do not recognize it, stop trading with them, impose sanctions on them"
“International community....especially, I ask President Barack Obama directly, this government does not recognize people's rights and oppresses them brutally...this government is a huge threat to global peace....We need your help international community. Don’t leave us alone.”
“International community....especially, I ask President Barack Obama directly, this government does not recognize people's rights and oppresses them brutally...this government is a huge threat to global peace....We need your help international community. Don’t leave us alone.”
Huckabee endorses Marco Rubio for US Senate
"Let's show America that Republicans haven't made up their minds yet about the Florida Senate race, and when they do, they're going to choose the principled conservative Republican candidate and Marco Rubio will be on his way to the U.S. Senate."
Monday, June 22, 2009
Obama voting again present
Sen. Graham on This Week on ABC:
GRAHAM: He's certainly moving in the right direction, but our point is that
there is a monumental event going on in Iran, and you know, the president of the United States is supposed to lead the free world, not follow it. Other nations have been more outspoken, so I hope that we'll hear more of this, because the young men and women taking the streets in Tehran need our support. The signs are in English. They are basically asking for us to speak up on their behalf.
And I appreciate what the president said yesterday, but he's been timid and passive more than I would like, and I hope he will continue to speak truth to power.
This regime is corrupt. It has blood on its hands in Iran. They've killed Americans in Iraq, innocent Iraqi people; now they're killing their own people. Stand up with the protesters. That's not meddling. That's doing the right thing.
Republican's rising star - "A man who might be the Answer to the GOP"
Politico).Florida GOP Senate candidate Marco Rubio could hardly have written a better introduction for himself during his appearance on MSNBC earlier today.
Anchor Carlos Watson referred to Rubio, the primary challenger against Gov. Charlie Crist (R-Fla.), as a “rising star” in the Republican party – even comparing him favorably to President Obama.
"He's young. He's attractive. He easily connects with crowds. Remind you of anyone we know? Ten-to-one, this guy will soon be labeled the GOP's Barack Obama," Watson said.
Meanwhile, there were also some encouraging developments for Rubio on the campaign trail as he pursues his underdog campaign against the sitting governor. Rubio won overwhelming support from Republican party leaders in Pasco County (around Tampa-St. Petersburg), which neighbors Crist’s home base of Pinellas County.
Rubio received 73 votes to Crist’s 9 votes in a countywide straw poll of the Senate primary.
That's a blow to Crist, who was endorsed by the country GOP when he faced a competitive primary in 2006. And it's consistent with the (anecdotal) gripes of many prominent conservative activists throughout the Sunshine State.
Sen Jim Demint on Teleconference with Right wing news why he endorsed Rubio:
"I've endorsed Marco Rubio because Americans are outraged at the direction our country is being taken. Everywhere we look, the government is expanding and people are looking for an alternative and it's important that we don't offer the status quo, Democrat-lite, in 2010.
I think Marco Rubio's message is inspiring. He gets you excited about being an American and a Republican. Marco has convinced me that he can win the race in Florida and set the pace for Republicans all over the country."
"Then they have no confidence in our message. I think people are looking for conservative leadership. I believe Americans agree with us on the role the government is playing in our economy and I know that because Barack Obama had to lie about it to get elected.
The NRSC points to poll numbers that say Crist is beating Rubio badly. Do you think he can win the primary?
"I was in the same situation myself and I won and not only do I think Marco Rubio can win, I think he's the favorite. I think he has ideas that are much more powerful than the politicians. I think the people in Florida are going to move towards his message".
Anchor Carlos Watson referred to Rubio, the primary challenger against Gov. Charlie Crist (R-Fla.), as a “rising star” in the Republican party – even comparing him favorably to President Obama.
"He's young. He's attractive. He easily connects with crowds. Remind you of anyone we know? Ten-to-one, this guy will soon be labeled the GOP's Barack Obama," Watson said.
Meanwhile, there were also some encouraging developments for Rubio on the campaign trail as he pursues his underdog campaign against the sitting governor. Rubio won overwhelming support from Republican party leaders in Pasco County (around Tampa-St. Petersburg), which neighbors Crist’s home base of Pinellas County.
Rubio received 73 votes to Crist’s 9 votes in a countywide straw poll of the Senate primary.
That's a blow to Crist, who was endorsed by the country GOP when he faced a competitive primary in 2006. And it's consistent with the (anecdotal) gripes of many prominent conservative activists throughout the Sunshine State.
Sen Jim Demint on Teleconference with Right wing news why he endorsed Rubio:
"I've endorsed Marco Rubio because Americans are outraged at the direction our country is being taken. Everywhere we look, the government is expanding and people are looking for an alternative and it's important that we don't offer the status quo, Democrat-lite, in 2010.
I think Marco Rubio's message is inspiring. He gets you excited about being an American and a Republican. Marco has convinced me that he can win the race in Florida and set the pace for Republicans all over the country."
"Then they have no confidence in our message. I think people are looking for conservative leadership. I believe Americans agree with us on the role the government is playing in our economy and I know that because Barack Obama had to lie about it to get elected.
The NRSC points to poll numbers that say Crist is beating Rubio badly. Do you think he can win the primary?
"I was in the same situation myself and I won and not only do I think Marco Rubio can win, I think he's the favorite. I think he has ideas that are much more powerful than the politicians. I think the people in Florida are going to move towards his message".
As the Bush shadow dissapears,Americans start to move blame onto Obama
While most U.S. voters still blame the Bush Administration for the nation’s economic problems, a growing number are inclined to blame President Barack Obama.
A new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that 39% of voters now say the country’s economic problems are caused more by the policies Obama has put in place. That’s a 12-point jump from a month ago.
Fifty-four percent (54%) still say the country’s economic woes are due to the recession Obama inherited from President Bush. That figure is down eight points from 62% from early June.
By a two-to-one margin, voters also have more confidence in themselves than in the president when it comes to the economy. This marks a significant shift from just after Obama took office.
Sixty percent (60%) of voters now trust their own economic judgment more than the president’s. In early February, 49% had more trust in themselves while 39% trusted the president more.
Now only 30% trust Obama more when it comes to the economic issues facing the nation.
Younger voters are more likely than their elders to blame the current economic situation on the recession that began under Bush. The majority of middle income voters place more of the blame on Obama’s policies.
Eighty-two percent (82%) of Democrats see the economic problems as ones largely inherited from the previous administration, while 61% of GOP voters point the finger at the actions of the new president. Unaffiliated voters are almost evenly divided on the question.
A new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that 39% of voters now say the country’s economic problems are caused more by the policies Obama has put in place. That’s a 12-point jump from a month ago.
Fifty-four percent (54%) still say the country’s economic woes are due to the recession Obama inherited from President Bush. That figure is down eight points from 62% from early June.
By a two-to-one margin, voters also have more confidence in themselves than in the president when it comes to the economy. This marks a significant shift from just after Obama took office.
Sixty percent (60%) of voters now trust their own economic judgment more than the president’s. In early February, 49% had more trust in themselves while 39% trusted the president more.
Now only 30% trust Obama more when it comes to the economic issues facing the nation.
Younger voters are more likely than their elders to blame the current economic situation on the recession that began under Bush. The majority of middle income voters place more of the blame on Obama’s policies.
Eighty-two percent (82%) of Democrats see the economic problems as ones largely inherited from the previous administration, while 61% of GOP voters point the finger at the actions of the new president. Unaffiliated voters are almost evenly divided on the question.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Obama's slip is showing: The public likes his big plans much less than it likes him, and that can't
(Michael Goodwin- Dailynews).One of President Obama's favorite words is "unsustainable." It also happens to be the perfect description of his standing with the American people.
Polls consistently find he is personally more popular than his major policies. That situation is unsustainable - something has to give. The first law of politics says the two must eventually get in sync.
Bet that Obama's popularity will give. In part that's because, even if he wanted to, he can't undo the big policies the public doesn't like, especially his adding to the deficit and his aggressive push to get government more involved in private industry.
Another reason is that Obama doesn't want to change course and ridicules those who think he should. At a Democratic fund-raiser Thursday, the President reportedly mimicked a robot as he called criticism of his policies "predictable."
His partisan audience yukked it up, but the last laugh may be on Dems who follow their audacious leader too closely. Dem gains in the last two elections came primarily from conservative-leaning districts and some members already are worried about re-election. If the tide turns against Obama, they could be in trouble.
Yet Obama, like George Bush, seems to be digging a foxhole and insisting he is right and the public is wrong. We know how that worked out for Bush and the GOP.
While it's too early to say Obama's honeymoon is over, the public is waking up to the danger of uncontrolled government power and spending. Three separate polls last week had similar findings, and they weren't pretty for the White House.
In the short term, Obama is prevailing with nonstop campaigning. From daily TV speeches to political-style town halls, he is using his best weapons - his charisma and the power of the office. It's have TelePrompTer, will travel.
But facts, such as rising unemployment, are stubborn things and Obama's long-term problem is that he is giving only lip service to public doubts. He says he wants government to have a "light touch," yet every move is heavy-handed.
He says the deficit keeps him awake at night, yet he spends his daytime hours adding to it, most recently with a health bill that would cost at least $1 trillion over 10 years.
Obama dares call this reform and says it will save money. Wisely, the public doesn't believe him. And just wait till voters get the bill for his carbon tax.
Even Congress is getting rebellious. The health bill is proving too expensive for some liberals who clamored for it and Obama's overhaul of financial services was met mostly with skepticism.
The most dramatic rebuke came when both the House and Senate voted overwhelmingly to condemn Tehran’s crackdown on courageous demonstrators protesting the election. The bold, bipartisan statement stands in contrast to Obama's comments, which grew more forceful yesterday but still fall short of what is needed from the leader of the free world.
He is guilty of looking weak and indecisive while a democracy revolution unfolds in a dangerous Muslim nation.
That's not where an American President should be at this historic moment.
Polls consistently find he is personally more popular than his major policies. That situation is unsustainable - something has to give. The first law of politics says the two must eventually get in sync.
Bet that Obama's popularity will give. In part that's because, even if he wanted to, he can't undo the big policies the public doesn't like, especially his adding to the deficit and his aggressive push to get government more involved in private industry.
Another reason is that Obama doesn't want to change course and ridicules those who think he should. At a Democratic fund-raiser Thursday, the President reportedly mimicked a robot as he called criticism of his policies "predictable."
His partisan audience yukked it up, but the last laugh may be on Dems who follow their audacious leader too closely. Dem gains in the last two elections came primarily from conservative-leaning districts and some members already are worried about re-election. If the tide turns against Obama, they could be in trouble.
Yet Obama, like George Bush, seems to be digging a foxhole and insisting he is right and the public is wrong. We know how that worked out for Bush and the GOP.
While it's too early to say Obama's honeymoon is over, the public is waking up to the danger of uncontrolled government power and spending. Three separate polls last week had similar findings, and they weren't pretty for the White House.
In the short term, Obama is prevailing with nonstop campaigning. From daily TV speeches to political-style town halls, he is using his best weapons - his charisma and the power of the office. It's have TelePrompTer, will travel.
But facts, such as rising unemployment, are stubborn things and Obama's long-term problem is that he is giving only lip service to public doubts. He says he wants government to have a "light touch," yet every move is heavy-handed.
He says the deficit keeps him awake at night, yet he spends his daytime hours adding to it, most recently with a health bill that would cost at least $1 trillion over 10 years.
Obama dares call this reform and says it will save money. Wisely, the public doesn't believe him. And just wait till voters get the bill for his carbon tax.
Even Congress is getting rebellious. The health bill is proving too expensive for some liberals who clamored for it and Obama's overhaul of financial services was met mostly with skepticism.
The most dramatic rebuke came when both the House and Senate voted overwhelmingly to condemn Tehran’s crackdown on courageous demonstrators protesting the election. The bold, bipartisan statement stands in contrast to Obama's comments, which grew more forceful yesterday but still fall short of what is needed from the leader of the free world.
He is guilty of looking weak and indecisive while a democracy revolution unfolds in a dangerous Muslim nation.
That's not where an American President should be at this historic moment.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)