DF, don’t know if you will see my comment on the last post re the cat video, thank you! Happy New Year! Took it straight to my FB page, where I then watched it again. I may watch it every hour of the rest of today! Love it!
Peoples, I am wanting a clearer picture of what happened last night.
What had the Republicans decide to vote for the bill?
It seems to me that something shifted.
Did big money call them on the phone and give them orders?
Did Nancy Pelosi/Joe Biden say something different?
A comment at the end of ThePeople’sView this morning said,
PBO knew when he had the press conference on 12/31 that
the “tumblers had fallen into place” . . . . and it was just a matter of
time . . . letting things work through the b.s.
What did PBO and others see such that they could be pretty sure
it was going to pass? The process seemed so chaotic; they must
have been figuring on that as well, and then from chaos . . .
something emerges? Is that how it can go?
Bobfr, requesting your comments here, and others, as well.
thanks.
You may have gotten this in your own email, but I just got an e-mail explaining it from David Plouffe, WhiteHouse.gov blog explains the effects. Doesn’t really explain what you were asking though. Hope I spelled David’s last name right.
Sara, my husband is convinced that it was big money telling them to lay off the crap or the markets would crash and their own money would dry us. If you remember, PBO had a meeting with a lot of big corporate types and they were all in agreement that the cliff had to
be avoided. It was only the teahadists in the House who thought it would be cool to have another recession because they can’t see two
feet in front of them. I also think that Cantor’s little insurrection convinced Boehner he had to get something done fast. The Senate vote had also positioned the R’s in the House to take the entire blame for higher taxes on the middle class. As a little added bonus the screech corner known as the emoprogs made it seem like the president would get some blame from his own party.
Sara, the markets tell the story. I think the Senate Rs, and even Bernie Sanders, knew that they did not want to have to face the absolute reality of a market crash that would have started in the Indonesian, Australian, Chinese, etc markets if the deal did not get done and would have swept the globe like a financial tsunami we’ve only seen a few times (think 2008, 1987, or worse). I also think that many of them considered it likely that Cantor and the teahadist would prevail – so they had to be on the ‘right side of history’ even though the GOP would have been blamed no matter how those R Senators voted.
As to what happened in the House, it’s obvious Speaker Pelosi was in charge and a sufficient number of Rs, including Boehner, knew the calamity that awaited in the financial markets and they essentially told Cantor and the Teahadists yesterday afternoon to pound sand.
We saw a global market response at nearly a 3 point rise – if that bill had not passed the house last night you could have easily seen a 6 or greater point drop and all hell break loose not just in equity markets but in currency, commodities, etc. We’d be witnessing a very, very different 2 Jan 2013, 2017 PST, than we are now.
So, yes, an enormous amount of ‘market’ pressure came to bear on Rs and I have zero doubt that PBO knew when he was sticking it to the Rs on Monday that they had no real choice. That still left the possibility of the crazy – from Cantor and the Teahadists, but I think the calculus had been done by Speaker Pelosi that way too many Rs were going to tell both Boehner & Cantor to go to hell if they didn’t allow the Senate bill to come to a vote. Obviously, Boehner’s (aka Cantor’s) alternative couldn’t even get 218 within the Rs majority in the House.
All speculation – above – but it seems reasonable speculation, at least to my pea brain
Thank you, Bobfr. I hear you that it’s speculation, but it also has a “rings true” to it. okay, then.
Moving forward with this “understanding”, I see that doing the right thing for the peoples and
doing the right thing for the market can be a fine dance, which is what PBO has been pointing
to all along: we do best when the middle class thrives. We rise together or we don’t rise at all.
Christie: "Last night, the House majority failed most basic test of leadership & they did so with callous disregard to the ppl of my state."— Molly Ball (@mollyesque) January 02, 2013
Bill, he still needs to spell it out. “And yes, it was my party, the REPUBLICAN PARTY that failed that test.” I really want the whole of the US to see this. No more mealy mouthed “House majority.” This is a betrayal by House Republicans and it will keep happening again and again until the people of this country elect Democratic majorities in the House and keep electing them in the Senate.
Eric Cantor must haaaaaaaaate John Boehner. He called Christie and told him that Boehner and Boehner alone pulled the vote for Sandy relief. I wonder how that knife feels on Boehner’s back.
I’m curious about what Boner has to gain by not voting for this. has anyone seen him since last night? Do the teabutts have him drawn and quartered somewhere. Why wouldn’t he try and save face from his beatdown and at least vote this one? Cantor doesn’t gain on this either,. He re-enforces his snake-in-the-grass image by saying he would handle it, now he can’t. So are the Teabutts holding them both by the short hairs? What’s the Pubs point?
DAMN……House GOP and Boehner are not faring well in the public eye.
Christie says he called Boehner 4X last night and Boehner refused his calls. Pres. Obama is the only one who's given him positive feedback.— Nerdy Wonka (@NerdyWonka) January 02, 2013
Christie says the one person who's given him positive feedback about #SandyRelief is Pres. Obama not Boehner and House GOP.— Nerdy Wonka (@NerdyWonka) January 02, 2013
Wow. I think we may actually get marriage equality in IL. I’m going to be invited to soooo many weddings. I’m already expected to be a bridesmaid for two Puma’s who I helped bring to PBO’s side and where they happily stayed after his move on marriage equality.
Sad. The Catholic Church is far behind the times. However, on the subject of income inequality and poverty, the message of the Pope was on the right side of things.
aloha and good hawaii morning chips and tod ohana~
i slept really well last night, and i hope you all did too. it felt like the whole year’s campaign and election culminated in that one moment last night when he said, we’re not doing this any more. his righteous fury was right there on his face. then he just walked out to the chopper and flew to hawaii–beautiful!!!
i hope he’s relaxing today, having fun with his kids, and catching some waves. get those bare feet into the sand, pbo!!!
i know. i envisoned them doing what my husband and i do when on vacation in maui, walking on the beach at night, smooching in the shadows. i know pbo and the first lady are constantly watched, so we have seen photos of them sharing a kiss, a smile, a snuggle. but truly, there’s a lot lost when your only truly private moments are behind firmly closed doors.
whatever. he’s pandering. we must not let him get away with his latest grift. as a reminder of who we’re talking about, here he was just a few months ago:
Annie, don’t even think it. He’s grifting. While there is truth to the House dissin’ NY and NJ, Christie is positioning himself for 2016. Nothing more, nothing less.
Even so, whatever his motive right now, if it gets aid for the Hurricane Sandy victims, so be it! Go Christie. Besides, I really felt when President Obama visited NJ after the storm, Christie was genuinely gracious and thankful and showed it. Remember, he is a native of NJ and said he loves it. I may be (no, I am) naive but I really do think he wants what is best for NJ and NY and the citizens of those states.
I’m not denying that he wants the Sandy relief. But if he really wanted what was best for “his” state, he would set up his ACA medical exchange. He would have pressed his Senators and House reps to vote on the jobs bill, the violence against women act. He wouldn’t have blocked the high speed rail project, etc. etc.
I know what you are saying, but he’s grandstanding. Yes it’s for a good cause, but he’s grandstanding, nonetheless.
I hear you and you are probably right that he is. Still, one, if it gets the people in NJ the money they need, and two, if he rails against Boehner, than you just gotta love that. Just for today anyway!
Thanks for the reminder – many have short memories. You should tweet this out, since so many were singing his praises after just one positive act, but the same people seem to refuse to give President Obama the benefit of his stellar record of governing for the past four years (and more).
I actually wouldn’t have minded if President Obama had flown all the way to Hawaii, packed up his family and friends in Air Force One, and turned around to fly home. I hope they take every perk that is part of the Presidency, and enjoy every trip and advantage – because I know that the right wing will be twisting and writhing and complaining about every “vacation” (aka – weekend), and golf game, and dinner date – and there’s not one thing they can do about it. He’s earned it all. When the right wing start squealing about the 100 days in a year that the GOP-led House has worked, then they can talk.
I believe that Christie is honestly trying to take care of his constituents, but don’t think for a minute that he isn’t playing this up for all it’s worth. He will not be primaried and at this rate, he won’t even be opposed for his re-election.
He did?? Now, that I cannot forgive him for … my push button this next 4 years is infrastructure, baby. And I want those trains (loved travelling by rail in Ireland, England and Scotland).
Glad to see Christie ream Boehner. But he is being dishonest by saying it’s not regional. Most of the GOP Senate voted against Sandy relief and they were from the South and the Midwest mostly, all states who get Fed. disaster relief.
Yeah, but let them suffer a tornado and they all go crying to the big, bad Government to help them out. I am in the South, I know. God, somebody relocate me.
and I know this is bsns as usual, but I heard msnbc report today that all kinds of unrelated stuff was tagged onto the relief bill—–aid to fisheries in Alaska and a new roof for the Smithsonian etc. etc. etc.
Dear @SenatorReid Thank you for your leadership & we are eager to learn of the MAJOR Filibuster reforms that will be enacted, tomorrow.— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) January 02, 2013
Chris Christie is just as disingenuous, callous, slimy and as opportunistic as Cantor…
Nothing’s changed except he’s running for re-election in a blue state where he’s convinced even Democrats that he’s ‘moderate’ and ‘reasonable’ and open to ‘bi-partisanship’ when in reality, he’s as corrupt, self-serving and callous as the next right winger…
When Pres. Obama said the House always waits until the last minute to pass bills, GOP and MSM whined. Now, Christie says the same; silence.— Nerdy Wonka (@NerdyWonka) January 02, 2013
ugghhh. Why put Markos here? Did you see his tweets and retweets just 48 hours ago about Dems caving and needing to act like they won an election? He’s the leader of the emoprogs.
Perspective: 212 US troops were killed in Afghanistan in 2012, 393 US citizens have been killed by guns since #Newtown (<4 wks). @Lawrence— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) January 02, 2013
When domestic deaths outnumber those deaths in a war zone fighting against the most dangerous terrorists in the world (by almost 100%), then the situation is beyond desperate.
In 2011, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) led the Republican charge to deny disaster funding following major hurricanes and tornadoes unless the federal budget was cut in other areas.
Labrador said that Congress must “readjust everything we do” in order to find cuts to pay for Hurricane Isaac disaster relief. “If there’s emergencies, we don’t always need to keep borrowing money,” said the freshman Republican.
KEYES: Last year, for instance, after the Missouri tornado, Leader Cantor was a real “hold-the-line” to call for budget cuts to pay for disaster relief. Do you think that’s still the right strategy going forward if there’s damage from Hurricane Isaac?
LABRADOR: I think government should do what every family does. If you have an emergency, then you rethink your priorities and you still invest and you still do the things that you need to do to take care of your family. That’s what government should do is always reconsider. If there’s emergencies, we don’t always need to keep borrowing money, but we can actually take care of people that are in damaged communities by reconfiguring what we’re doing in Washington D.C.
KEYES: So find cuts to pay for those disaster funds?
LABRADOR: Find different ways to do it, absolutely. We have to readjust everything we do.
The problem with the GOP is that their only answer is to slam the middle class. As far as I’m concerned, any cuts should first be applied to Defense and the rich. They have room to maneuver. They want to offset any disaster relief? Then cut the tax breaks for oil companies. They want to cut spending? Then start with the Defense department. They want to reform entitlements? Then eliminate the cap on social security and payroll deductions. They want to draw down the deficit – then eliminate loopholes in the tax code so that the rich actually pay their taxes. There are a lot of solutions – but the media and the GOP only see the middle class and the poor as the targets for suffering.
Think that’s a good idea. Try putting it in tweet form, maybe? The House needs to realize they’re more like the bank as the board of directors. They’re the purse strings. If they go belly-up then the bank fails, ie, the USA. Rub they’re noses in it. Not good with words myself.
I don’t recall Christie asking the same House he’s so po’d with to pass the jobs bill or any other bill that would help his constituents. He knows full well it’s the teabutts who is holding his state hostage. Why doesn’t he call them out? #wassamattayouscurred?
I think Christie is a loud-mouth pejorative windbag and I don’t like the way he governs, but during an Oprah interview he expressed an undeniable truth, “Those who underestimate Barack Obama, underestimate him at their own peril. He’s as good a politician as I’ve ever seen…..And I think he’s genuine…..” . Clearly, he’s smarter than the rest of those neanderthals.
Even that statement to an Oprah audience was political. He’s slicker than owl poop. He knew what giving PBO a compliment in that setting would mean to his image. He may be politically smarter, but don’t let that fool you. He is a man on a mission, part of which is to get some PBO moderates in his corner. Thus becoming PBO’s new best buddy.
Hope everyone is having a wonderful day…I am still smiling at last night’s Win…PBO is one you don’t dare mess with, unless you asking for some A—whooping…LOL!!!! love the Man…and proud to support him through thick and thin.
(Hugs)
Ha! TPM Reader SS sent me custom designed "please proceed, governor" tshirt. So awesome. Best gift ever. http://t.co/rHoqjH0n— Josh Marshall (@joshtpm) January 02, 2013
Just remember @GovChristi the 'partisanship' of which you rightly speak is from Your GOP/Teahadist buddies, not #PBO & Dems. Yes We Know.— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) January 02, 2013
Wittle Wukey Wussert has reached John McCain status: No one gives a shit what they say. Our problem is the Republican Media in WASH, DC— SLD (@DITUPAC3361) January 02, 2013
At the 6:27 mark and multiple times there after the clip from Morning Joe show Luke standing against a wall when Paul Lyin Ryan walks past and the exchange is quite telling……..
Okay, I’m trying just to lurk, but that was the best! Last night, Lukie Boy’s sweaty face, loud voice, 5 o’clock shadow, and who knows what else goin’ on with him were really getting on my nerves – Ha! And to hear the host clown on C-Span read Wittle Wukey’s tweets from the House pretty much shows that even I could be a BFD correspondent for our current media.
Remember when Steve Schmidt said Republicans would have a Civil War? Chris Christie is playing General Sherman.— ProfB (@AntheaButler) January 02, 2013
So do the ‘Pubs plan to let the country default, or will they list the actual cuts they want to spending? Hmmmm talk about a rock and hard place. Considering they couldn’t get 218 votes for an amendment that included spending cuts last night, what makes them think they have leverage to get them later? Are they really gonna tell their main constituents, the elderly, that they’re coming after them? Are they gonna tell the military industrial complex that they’re gonna have to tighten their belts? I think they expect PBO to bargain with himself by putting the cuts out there first. PBO will simply say, ‘please proceed MFers’ (merry fellows)
GOP is in an ever weaker position and the President made it clear, yet again, that he will not in any way negotiate the debt ceiling with Congress.
During the summer of 2011 several folk, including President Clinton, noted that the language of Section IV of the 14th Amendment effectively renders any debt ceiling restriction unconstitutional.
President Obama is a way good enough Constitutional scholar to determine if that will be the instrument he uses to neuter Congress on the issue, once and for all (or until some future Congress amends the Constitution). He ‘took it off the table’ during the self-inflicted (by Congress) crisis in 2011. Senator Durbin, among others, urged him not to do so.
Perhaps, now that he is secure in his 2nd, historically significant, term he’s ready to invoke Section IV. For certain, he has been consistent and forceful that he will not, in any way, negotiate raising the debt ceiling.
Cookemom – I’ve been wondering the same thing. Watching Repubs gloat about now having the leverage, while not mentioning a single cut that they’re planning to go after, has been wonderful. They have no idea that they are just walking deeper and deeper into President Obama’s trap. They got away with not mentioning the cuts they want to implement during Romney’s failed attempt during the presidential campaign. They got away with it during this last “crisis”. And now, they think they’re going to sail into a debt and deficit battle – which the President has already said he’s not planning to join. I heard one of them stating that the President is kidding himself if he thinks he’ll be able to avoid getting into the debt ceiling debate. They clearly don’t realize that getting the President into the debt ceiling debate is the last thing they should be hoping for, because he’s going to expose them for what they are. He’s going to get the truth about their intentions with these “spending cuts”, and expose them for their attempted distortion of what the debt ceiling is all about, and then he’s going to expose them about their love of Defense dollars and willingness to throw the seniors into the cold. They have no idea what they’re in for.
Hi Chipsticks,
Once you are done bodysurfing consider this for your next post. LOL they wouldn’t accept 10:1 spending cuts to revenue. Instead they got 1:41 spending cuts to revenue. And smart ass “what’s the score of the Wisconsin game?” media dubbed “policy wonk” Paul Ryan voted for it!!! LMAO!!
That’s what was behind the POTUS wink last night. Crushed them, crushed them, crushed them.
I love it! The emoprogs and the pundits aren’t talking about that. The couple of times I peeked into MSNBC, they were working hard to discount any “win” for President Obama. A complete joke – we all know the truth.
part 2 of sam wang’s analysis of gerrymandering, its impacts, and what to do about it.
‘ Which brings us to the topic I do care about: “bad government.” My goal is to identify actions that purposely separate the legislative process from overall popular will. It can also happen when redistricting is under the control of partisan legislators, who can (and do) protect incumbents or an entire political party. In the extreme, fewer than 50% of voters can elect more than 50% of the Representatives. In addition, the construction of polarized districts can leave policy positions at the mercy of primary voters. ‘
Gov. Chris Christie: "I called the Speaker 4 times! He didn't take my calls, and usually my calls are taken care of in 30 minutes or less."— Top Conservative Cat (@TeaPartyCat) January 02, 2013
RT And, Violence Against Women Act @NancyPelosi: Heading to House floor to discuss GOP leadership's refusal to bring up #Sandy relief vote.— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) January 02, 2013
The fiscal-cliff deal: For now, it's a short-term win for Obama, long-term win for Republicans. bit.ly/U564Hv— Mother Jones (@MotherJones) January 02, 2013
#fail RT @NBCNews: UPDATE: Early reports mistakenly saying Hillary Clinton was released from hospital have been confirmed to be untrue.— Andrew Kaczynski (@BuzzFeedAndrew) January 02, 2013
From the time I saw David Corn ask scornfully yesterday on Twitter “So what else did Obama get besides 98% tax cuts and UI” I realized that these so-called liberals in the media are mighty pissed that PBO successfully got their taxes to go up. Corn probably thinks that it was his 47% video that got PBO re-elected, but he is seriously mistaken.
They all seem to think it was the 47% video and Bill Clinton that got PBO re-elected, now Joe Biden is getting all the credit while they attack the President. They can’t even give him credit for getting re-elected, much less doing his job.
Serious question: what did Obama win for not going over the cliff, assuming Rs would've voted for extending mid-class cuts? UI? What else?— David Corn (@DavidCornDC) January 01, 2013
Nope, you’re right, not sarcastic. Just a bit blind. From the way it was stated in the comment it sounded like it might be a bit sarky-it’s hard to tell online sometimes.
Is Chips bodysurfing in HI? Maybe next to the man in the picture above? Is this how she got such a good shot of him? Are we suspicious and jealous? In a word, yes!
I’m not posting this because I agree with her – I’m posting this so you guys will get at her with some snark….
Big cliff lessons: Pelosi still speaker. Obama still open to cutting Medicare/SS, U.S. still run by and for rich salon.com/2013/01/02/big…— Joan Walsh (@joanwalsh) January 02, 2013
The year has changed but this woman is still bitter at someone, somehow, and all the times. These professional lefties need to wake up from their day dreams.
Happy New Year, Everyone. I had computer problems for over 36 hours; it has been resolved a few minutes ago. I can now click and get to a website!
OK, I had a little toe surgery two hours ago, but I had to fire up the Twitter machine for this. Hope it makes sense. Now back to bed!
President has never been open to simply “cutting” Medicare/SS. #Fiscal cliff deal fixes SGR w/no cuts to #ACA or Medicare users. @joanwalsh— Kat 4 Obama (@Kat4Obama) January 02, 2013
Kat, I hope you get well soon from your toe surgery. Your tweet response to Walsh was truthful and civil. I am not sure I would have been that civil in response to her blatant lies about the President’s position on Medicare and Social Security. I am really sick of these born again, holier than thou, liberals/progressives.
hmmm. well, i happily agree with the first statement! but i did not hear pbo say he’s open to ‘cutting’ medicare; i heard him say he plans on a ‘reform’. that doesn’t mean cutting benefits, and i don’t believe that he will cut medicare, social security, or other benefits for the elderly. as to the statement ‘by the rich for the rich’, that’s just inflammatory nonsense. we just had an election where the 47% whooped richie rich myth and his rich buddies.
i’d say the big cliff lessons is, never underestimate the president. all your derisive language and sneering does not change who he is: superb at the long game.
Everyone knows that the safety net needs strengthening. It’s been undermined for years, and hasn’t been strengthened to account for the higher number of retirees, poor and unemployed, so that it’s now teetering. Instead of these so-called media/pundits offering some ideas on reforming and/or strengthening entitlements so that the public can get behind supporting the right stuff, they are only focused on bashing the President for being open to discussions. They ignore the fact that the right wing has openly declared their wish to destroy the safety net, and the only “reform” suggestions they’re discussing are the ones that destroy. They all heard Nancy Pelosi say that she’s open to discussing CPI, as long as seniors can be protected from harm – and they’ve seen that the President has not done one thing to harm seniors. But, instead of engaging the public in a thoughtful discussion on possible, effective ways to strengthen the safety net, they repeat gossip and lies. They’re disgusting.
This is soooo off-topic, but I’m counting down to Downton Abbey on Sunday! Since almost all of my favorite shows were cancelled in 2012, at least there’s Downton Abbey. I think the universe is telling me to read more, you know, actual books. Although I read all day every day I need to find more time for soul-feeding fiction these days…….
aloha 57
so what good books have you read lately? i love to read, and appreciate recommendations. here’s some i read recently.
i just finished jeffery toobin’s ‘the oath’. excellent background on the supreme court, with lots of interesting details about roberts, scalia, thomas, and the rw agenda there. i did not like the snarky conclusion, that pbo isn’t doing enough to shift the judiciary to the left, but still a very worthwhile read. another non-fiction i’m just finishing is ‘wine and war’ by d. and p. kladstrup, the story of how the french vintners saved their beloved wines during the nazi occupation.
in fiction, try ‘beautiful ruins’ by jess walter–wonderful story set in italy really takes you away. another terrific novel is ‘between two oceans’ by m.l. stedman, set on a lighthouse island on the coast of australia. also read ‘the orchardist’ by amanda coplin–the story of homesteaders in washington, with rich human drama, beautifully told.
hey, i bet liberal librarian has some recommendations, too. how about a tod book club?
So sad. I just checked my kindle downloads and 90% is for work. My research reading is interesting but still…..
The New New Deal, Michael Grunwald. A must-read for all progressives, Dem’s and well, everybody.
I’m first getting around to reading the Dragon Tattoo books. Pathetic, I know.
Norwegian Wood, by Haruki Murakami. Barely started it, but it’s good writing. I cannot abide bad writing, or just writing for the plot. It’s gotta be good.
I read a lot of a classics. Modern favorite authors: Steinbeck, Larry McMurtry. I love Edith Wharton, Willa Cather. From my theater background, Shakespeare is just my favorite.
I re-read Jane Austen all the time. I re-read Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights every 5 years or so, and cannot believe how much I discover each and every time.
Hi susanne, I recently read “Cutting For Stone” a novel by Abraham Verghese and thought it was amazing. I love to read and have since I was 5….I won’t divulge how many years that’s been Anyhow, Cutting for Stone is easily one of the best books I’ve ever had the privilege to read and I highly recommend it.
thanks 57 and mela! i have both ‘cutting for stone’ and ‘the new new deal’ on my wait list at the library.
i read for enjoyment, and i do love good writing, but also want to enjoy spending time with the characters in the setting. i re-read willa cather every decade or so, because her storytelling is just wondrous.
the dragon tattoo books were rough going in places (which is when i flip pages) but they do tell a harrowing tale of political and journalistic intrigue. ‘norwegian wood’ was one that i started but never completed. i often drop out of books in translation– i can’t get inside somehow.
my husband just finished ‘the round house’ by louise erdrich, and he loved it, so it’s next on my list.
I also read for enjoyment…life can get messy and a good book provides the ideal escape. I am a fan of well written murder mysteries and loved the depth of the characters in Elizabeth George’s Inspector Lynley series but only up to but not including “Careless in Red”. I think something happened to her writing because “Careless in Red” was awful and it’s been downhill ever since. “The Round House” has been on my list based on reviews, it’s good to know your husband enjoyed it.
me too on eliz george. a friend had recommended her, but i think i’m done after the ‘red’. i love to re-read dorothy sayers, and keep praying that p.d. james will live to write more books. other mystery writers i enjoy: louise penney (french canadian setting), laurie king (takes sherlock holmes into a new era), and donna leon (venice police stories). all very good writers, excellent story tellers.
LOVE Donna Leon and Louise Penney. I have also been reading G.M. Ford mysteries set it Seattle with Leo Waterman P.I. I’ve enjoyed listening to Robert Harris Imperium and Conspiratus, both fictionalized histories of Cicero’s life. Well-researched and wonderfully written. I can’t recommend them too highly.
Oh yes. It’s a fantastic book. I don’t read much fiction but Verghese is such a wonderful writer. There’s a touch of magical-realism to it. My favorite magical-realism book is 100 Years of Solitude. I’ve read it twice and will soon be reading it again.
One of the best books I’ve read is “A Suitable Boy” by Vikram Seth. It’s a long book, but really pulls you into the story, and full of cultural depth. I loved it!
I really enjoyed it – and it wasn’t at all like reading 1400 pages. It was entertaining and very eventful. If you have a free, quiet weekend, you’ll be well entertained.
i’ll give it a go, then. this is when an e-reader would be nice, because a heavy book in my old arthritic hands is a consideration. worth it for a superb read!
Thanks for all the book recommendations TOD Peeps! I just finished Team of Rivals, (had to read it after seeing Lincoln) and looking for something else to sink into. Another reason why I love this place; one gets clued into good music and good reads.
Oh and Susanne, your peppermint bark recipe was a big hit. My nephew loved smashing the candy canes. He thought his Auntie was all kinds of cool when I told him the recipe involved him breaking something! I had barely gotten it broken into “bark sized pieces” when the rest of the family swooped in like vultures and devoured it all. I only got a small taste myself; it was like a York Peppermint Patty, only BETTER!
so glad to hear it! i barely got a taste of mine, too, but so glad to have something easy and tasty when there are folks to feed! i might make more, but with nuts and maybe minced candied ginger.
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton leaves New York Presbyterian Hospital accompanied by family: Reuters witness— Reuters Politics (@ReutersPolitics) January 02, 2013
@Lawrence#PBO has been definitive that he will NOT negotiate the debt ceiling. Major change since July 2011. Section IV/14th seems likely.— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) January 02, 2013
@PressSec given how definitive POTUS has been regarding refusal to ever negotiate debt ceiling is Section IV of the 14th now 'on the table'?— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) January 02, 2013
What people are ignoring when they think PBO will “cave” on the debt ceiling, is that he has made very clear that he will not allow the USA to default on debts the CONGRESS has already authorized. He did not make as strong a statement last time because there were many other issues at stake. I have a hunch he will make it very clear in both his Inaugural Address and SOTU speech how, constitutionally, we cannot default. In essence, he will be saying to the Republicans that if they fail to raise the debt ceiling cleanly, they are acting unconstitutionally and that, if necessary, he will uphold the Constitution if they won’t.
Don’t know if he’ll take that route. Here’s what he had to say about that last time: ” “There’s a provision in our Constitution that speaks to making sure that the United States meets its obligations. And there have been some suggestions that a president could use that language to basically ignore this debt ceiling rule, which is a statutory rule. It’s not a constitutional rule. I have talked to my lawyers. … They are not persuaded that that is a winning argument.”
During that entire interval he never said anything close to what he has now said several times since election – ‘I will not negotiate with anyone on the debt ceiling’ – and members of his staff, including Press Sec Carney have not only reiterated that but enforced it with ‘we ain’t taking calls, answering emails, etc …. the President is not negotiating the debt ceiling.’
As you know, I always take the President at his word. So, unless he has determined an alternate legal position, the one that several knowledgeable folk have indicated is viable is to invoke Section IV of the 14th Amendment. I have no lawyer/legal background, but the words of that Amendment are hardly obscure.
One thing for sure, friend, we don’t have long to learn what he’s going to do
Happy New Year to you too Bobfr! Yep I’ve no doubt that PBO has laid down the gauntlet and he will make them regret they ever doubted his leadership or called him weak. I don’t know if it’ll be from the constitutional angle (daring the SCOTUS to rule in favor of having the country default on its debts), or just by letting the ‘Pubs self-destruct. Either way, he means business. There’s no campaign looming and he doesn’t have to suffer the fools daily. Pass the popcorn.
CNN is showing Bill and Hilary Clinton leaving the hospital. She looks well. Her hair is up in a ponytail and she’s wearing shades. Chelsea Clinton is also with her.
Cantor doesn’t really want the job. He knows he can’t herd the cats in his caucus. He just wants to make Bonehead continue to look bad, so he can continue to use the teabutts for their favor and exultation.
In sunglasses, Sec. Clinton exits the hospital, holding a railing and Chelsea. Bill a bit behind them. http://t.co/Y0DPkRt9— Jennifer Epstein (@jeneps) January 02, 2013
I think the MSM is creating much unnecessary drama by their constant misreporting, premature speculation, of SOS’s condition.
Notice how they were very, very respectful of Bush Senior and have tried their best to maintain his privacy and present his illness and care in as positive a light as possible.
probably because his time is past. hillary, however, is running for president it seems, and her illness just changed the dynamics of that race. possibly i’m way too cynical, but seems to me christie’s awesome outrage today was to say, see how big and strong he is, while the little lady languishes in the hospital.
There is no evidence whatsoever that Hillary is running or plans to run for President. That has all been a media creation thus far. Just a few weeks ago in a Barbara Walters interview, Hillary emphatically stated that she had no plans to run for President.
This is being pushed from the GOP (enabled by the media for ratings/drama) because they see Hillary (and they are correct in that regard) as someone with many liabilities and baggage. They would never encourage a DEM to run if they truly believed that that individual would eviscerate their strongest Republican candidate.
true the media has been pushing hillary’s name, and i also think the rethugs want her nominated. they’ve been itching to trounce her since she first put on a pants suit.
I think you’re right,, hope. The GOP was totally defeated in 2008 and 2012. They’re trying to pick the Dem candidate to give their pathetic GOP bench a fighting chance – and the far left is falling for it.
As in the wake of U.S. Commodore Matthew Perry’s 1850s voyages to Japan, American companies are seeking greater opportunities, with General Electric Co. (GE) and Ford Motor Co. backing Obama’s plan for an 11-country Pacific trade deal that could bring in $108 billion a year. Instead of Perry’s gunships, what may propel Asian nations toward Obama’s vision is concern from Japan to Vietnam that China’s ascendance may pose a threat.
“The U.S. is serious about its commitment to Asia and sees Asia as the future in terms of economic growth in the 21st century,” said Simon Kahn, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore and Google Inc. (GOOG)’s chief Asia-Pacific marketing officer. “That has a very real impact in discussions with business counterparts in terms of thinking about long-term investments.”
The connection is part personal for Obama, 51, who lived in Jakarta from 1967 to 1971. In his second year in office, the president returned to Indonesia’s capital, addressing an audience of about 6,000 at the University of Indonesia highlighting prospects for deeper economic ties, “because a rising middle class here means new markets for our goods, just as America is a market for yours.”
Less than two years after Obama’s visit, Boeing Co. (BA) confirmed a record 230-plane order valued at $22.4 billion at list prices from PT Lion Mentari Airlines, a budget carrier in Indonesia, the world’s fourth most-populous nation.
So Obama is sitting on the beach drinking out of pineapple while the GOP takes turns punching each other in the nads? Happy New Year.— Cuffé (@CuffyMeh) January 02, 2013
RT @Will_Bunch: Hillary Clinton has escaped the hospital to replace John Boehner as House Speaker at 5 p.m., if I'm reading Twitter right— Barracks O'Bama (@P0TUS) January 02, 2013
I’m more intrigued with the thought that Randi had regarding the split in the House and the Boner vote tomorrow 151 Repubs are furious at Boner…85 Repubs voted with the Senate to approve the fiscal cliff deal….if all the Dems stuck together to vote to reinstate Pelosi, and some of those 85 Repub did the same…..could we have a Speaker Pelosi ??? Never happened before…but lots of things these last couple years are new to me!
I am not sure it’s true that “The speaker cab be ANYONE….” My understanding is that the House Speaker has to be one of the elected members of the House of Representatives who is chosen/elected by the majority of the House members. It’s true that unlike the Majority Leader does not have to be a member of the majority party. Any member of the House of Rep. can be chosen/elected Speaker if he/she has the support of 218 members. I think it’s magical thinking to expect the majority party, in this case the Republican party, to give up the powerful position of Speaker of the House of Representatives.
After years of trying, Al Jazeera is buying its way into American homes. A huge moment for the Qatar-based news giant. If deal closes (and I think it will today), Current TV will remain on the air for about 3 months. Then Al Jazeera comes on. Bye Bye Cenk Uygur!
Yup. It’s a sorta backdoor entry given the paranoia of the real ‘ murka. They are very good and their panels are excellent without all the shouting and talking over.
You are right Bill about the Current TV firebagger bunch, starting with Bill Press and skipping Stephanie Miller. Press has a designated spot for firebagger Elliott Spitzer and all of those folks from Politico.
gee, I wonder if Current had not filled the station with the likes of Cenk, Bill Press, Spitzer (No, Elliot, it’s not PBO’s fault your political career is over. It’s YOUR fault). Jennifer Granholm is good. But I admit, the firebaggers keep the station off my radar.
I dream of a sane, progressive media presence. I have a dream…….
Great. Al Jazerra English will be able to spend the money to make the station viable. If I were running it, have a Name change and call it something like…..Fact or Truth in News matters.
Something that is an eye opener and captures the seriousness, accuracy and the greater need to hold folks accountable.
Thank you, Bill Clinton for the Telecom bill. Gee, I don’t remember Joan Walsh getting her panties in a bunch when Bill Clinton was selling out progressives left and right.
He has indeed. I am forever grateful for Bill Clinton’s excellent help getting PBO reelected, but when you look at some of his major fuck-ups, it’s amazing he has the reputation he has with progressives. The Telecom Bill led to the right wing takeover of the media and his embrace of the Gramm bill is what led to the economic collapse.
MSNBC and their pundits are unhinged. In fact the entire left media is having conniptions right now. From what I saw on Twitter, MSNBC Hardball is going as far as to say that George Bush won the Fiscal Cliff Deal – that’s how MAD they are that PBO managed to get 90% of what he wanted leaving the rest of the GOP to pick up the 10% crumbs mixed with dust and roach eggs.
I think some people are raving mad that their great Bush tax cuts are going up. The left media will never admit it, but they LOVED when George Bush was president. They BENEFITED from his otherwise disastrous policies while making money by pretending to criticize him from the left. Now there is an adult in charge and they are frenzied…frightened…struggling to remain relevant.
When elected Dems are going after POTUS, it is time for me to notify OFA or whatever they are called, that I do not want my name or any contact info given to the DNC.
I had enough of Chelsea Clinton who’s never lifted a finger in support of anything or anyone besides her mother, sending me e-mails to thank her father for something or the other…
The list is for supporting Democratic candidates and legislators not for stroking Bill Clinton’s ego…
I finally turned because I could not believe the angle that the show was taking. Not just Moran but substitute host Smerconish and Fineman. It’s really pathetic that they’re allowed to construct the narrative by which the president’s actions are judged.
Jim Moran has never really supported President Obama…
His son was caught up in some unsavory James O’Keefe undercover stuff during the last elections and more recently for assaulting his girlfriend…
These slimy, terribly dysfunctional men like Jim Moran, with massive chips on their shoulders have such a need to drag President Obama down to their level…
I just got a request for money today from the DNC with some rinky dick Membership card enclosed.
I am going to return it with a note saying I will only donate directly to candidates of my choice until Democrats Stop going on TV and trash talking about the President.
They also hound me with phone calls asking for money.
Gave several lectures to poor volunteers who called on behalf of the DNC…
Funny thing though, many of them agreed with me about refusing to support a general fund that may potentially benefit Dems that disrespect President Obama – like Joe Manchin etc…
Anytime we go thru high stakes policy battle a well-funded muddy-Obama-victory media complex goes into high gear. Truth emerges only later— zizi2 (@zizii2) January 02, 2013
Why is that? It happens for just like today……hardly any of Pres Obama’s supporters were on TV/Cable today. Why couldn’t VP Biden or some surrogates out today clarifying what was in the bill yesterday? When there is a vacuum, people would fill it up. That is the problem. Mourning Joke trashed the deal for 3 hrs. Not One Real surrogate was there to counter all the TBGOPers on that show today. That is a problem that I have written them and called them about at least 30 times earlier.
This needs to be done especially when the POTUS is away. Surrogates should be out in force.
The problem is not with Obama surrogates or VP Biden. People who don’t know are in that position because they don’t want to know. How come you and I know? Did PBO call us into the oval office personally and give us wine and cheese over a lecture on the bill?
PBO already gave a statement on Friday about exactly what was in the senate bill. The WH.gov blog has all the information that people need. Folks like UT and Bobfr have been tweeting their hearts out, trying to correct misinformation – based on stuff they got from the White house website and other easily accessible sites.
When you have folks listening to hacks like Ezra Klein and Krugman and granting them more trust and credibility than a constitutional scholar who also happens to be an experienced and consummate politician, we have a much bigger problem than Obama surrogates not being on cable TV.
And I forgot to add: When PBO made it his business to go on MTP on Sunday, who did NBC trot out to “trash” him afterwards under the guise of a “panel”…that’s right. That washed-up, has been Brokaw who rarely has anything good to say about President Obama, and that hack Chuck Todd. Meanwhile, VP Biden was holed up in the senate with McConnell trying to get that bill completed. The true Obama surrogates cannot afford to be preening and posing on cable doing the journalists’ jobs for them TV 24/7 because they’re too busy doing their own jobs – which is actually getting stuff done!
His drinking problem may be worse than is known. Gov. Christie said he called Boner 4 times last night after 11:00 and Boner never returned the calls. He may have been drunk. His actions are very erratic.
The crying you hear is the Republican Party who has just come to the realization that they have had their asses handed to them on a plate.
This is the new Republican World:
They are at an all-time low in unpopularity. Root canals and Republicans are loved equally in the United States.
They are in the middle of a civil war. Neither side can win without the support of the other. Their united front that has stayed firm from the Reagan area until now just fell apart.
The Republican hate for Obama has blinded them. They have reached this pinnacle of power through carefully hiding their agenda behind propaganda and Fox News. President Obama lured them out into the open with his carefully crafted chess game where he played the weak bird with the broken wing. Flap, flap, “look at me! I’m practically a lame duck!” Obama lured them out into the open and in their haste to not get trapped, he managed to trip them up and split their party.
King is calling for people to no longer donate to the Republicans. Cantor is working on a coup. The right is ready to eat anyone who broke from the party line. The Speaker of the House has been turned into a laughing stock. He’s at the point where, in the White House he told Reid to “Go Fuck Himself.” This is not a healthy party.
I like the little bird analogy. It’s very true – President Obama plays the underdog, and manages to hide his strength very well. He’s got a lot of power, and he uses it very sparingly, but with deadly precision. It’s a wonder to behold.
can someone tell me what Steve Kornacki said on the cycle this afternoon that has some of my twitter feed abuzz. just a paraphrase would be nice I rather not have to listen to video
This is confusing—-don’t know if Hillary was just leaving to have a MRI and returning to the hospital, or will go home after MRI. And why does she have to leave a hospital to have a MRI?
Oh and they will not tell you, but this might effect her status to run for Presudent in 2016. All this attention, is meant to hurt her standing in the eyes of the public.
dotster3 – I had a long five-week hospital stay three years ago with a gazillion brain MRIs done, all in-house, but for a PET Scan, I did have to leave the hospital by transport to a nearby lab, because the scanning equipment arrived in a huge trailer parked behind a building and only was at that site on certain dates. It was a big regional medical center, and I have no real idea why it wasn’t done in-house, other than the size of the contraption and the cost of having it there, not sure. I was just glad to get out in the sunshine for a bit, to and from the hospital!
If you ever notice, it’s when the left wing fundraisers, Rebuild our Nightmare, Moveon, Democracy For inaction, ask for money they hit the President from a socialist POV.
This just in: America is not a socialist country.
But, when these fundraisers start freaking out on the President, the rest of the far left Media pile on, it’s all the Dane group if fuckers that pretend to be his base.
Whatever!
I get email solicitations from them and I always reply that I will never contribute to them until they are behind PBO 100% No idea if my answers are read, although I have had one or two responses and they weren’t very polite.
I did the same, COS! I refuse to be manipulated by privileged people who spend most of their time attacking a decent President who is trying to solve complex problems in a deeply divided country.
If you ever notice, it’s when the left wing fundraisers, Rebuild our Nightmare, Moveon, Democracy For inaction, ask for money they hit the President from a socialist POV.
This just in: America is not a socialist country.
But, when these fundraisers start freaking out on the President, the rest of the far left Media pile on, it’s all the Same group of fuckers that pretend to be his base.
Whatever!
Just got some cockeyed Christianist poll call—–all nervous about gay marriage becoming legal in Illinois—–”Are you registered to vote?” “Yes” “Do you agree only marriage between ONE man and ONE woman should be legal in Illinois? “No.” Click.
Wow, positive development — IL GOP Chair calling lawmakers to urge support for same sex marriage bit.ly/TxmlTo— Ben LaBolt (@BenLaBolt) January 02, 2013
Deal is done. Joel Hyatt memo to Current TV staff: "A few moments ago Current was acquired by Al Jazeera…"— Brian Stelter (@brianstelter) January 02, 2013
I think Jen Granholm will get a cabinet post replace Hilda Solece at Labor or Ron Kirk as trade rep, the rest of current can go where the sun dont shine.
I like Stephanie Miller, though. But, she can go back to her radio only program. The fact is, Al Gore is after money, just like the rest of them. Instead of leading the charge to have true liberal television to counter MSNBC and FOX and CNN, he’s sold out. I can’t say I blame him, but he shouldn’t get on a high horse and criticize President Obama, who has always taken the road less travelled.
I don’t think in this instance Gore had a choice. His vision may have been true liberal television but the reality is Current TV ratings were abysmal which means revenue was about the same. 7 years after launching people were still not watching. Time to pull the plug.
Because cable, Directv and Dish put it on a higher more costly tier unlike fox. My cable JUST gave me OWN and it was on a higher tier but now it’s on a lower tier. I was hoping that Randi Rhodes would go to Current to replace Cenk.
derp RT @mboyle1: Boehner makes concession to try to keep job—says he won't negotiate with Obama anymore: bit.ly/UIWWXN— Blake Hounshell (@blakehounshell) January 02, 2013
Well damn…; the black man's got to go for it all and get it all at 1 time or he's a scared, lazy, piece of shit. #WhiningLiberals— Sheryl Kaye (@sherylkaye) January 02, 2013
Oh my…I see that Snark Knoller’s cousin is now on Twitter. Ladies and Gents, meet Snark’s first cousin – Scott Clown!
Ready to deep 6 my campaign manager and just go with all the cool stuff Joe Dung and Jack Ass on #mapoli come up with Love those guys #masen— Scott Clown (@ScottClown) January 02, 2013
It’s time to invest in popcorn and booze. we’ll be eating the popcorn and the ‘pubs will be drowning in their beer. I haven’t seen such political silliness since folks thought $arah Pay’em was legit
Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) is signaling that at least one thing will change about his leadership during the 113th Congress: he’s telling Republicans he is done with private, one-on-one negotiations with President Obama.
During both 2011 and 2012, the Speaker spent weeks shuttling between the Capitol and the White House for meetings with the president in the hopes of striking a grand bargain on the deficit.
Those efforts ended in failure, leaving Boehner feeling burned by Obama and, at times, isolated within his conference.
In closed-door meetings since leaving the “fiscal cliff” talks two weeks ago, lawmakers and aides say the Speaker has indicated he is abandoning that approach for good and will return fully to the normal legislative process in 2013 — seeking to pass bills through the House that can then be adopted, amended or reconciled by the Senate.
“He is recommitting himself and the House to what we’ve done, which is working through regular order and letting the House work its will,” an aide to the Speaker told The Hill.
Ummm…he will have to work with President Obama. He can stop the crying and sobbing and boo hooing and man up and help my President continue to move this country forward .OR he ca resign and sit his happy self down.
They haven’t passed any bills (except naming post offices) using the “regular order and letting the House work its will” – they can’t even pass their own bills! Good luck to Speaker Boehner. He can’t get anything into law without President Obama, and President Obama can do a lot of stuff without Boehner. Only one side loses in that position that Boehner is planning on taking.
Working with the president is part of the job of the Speaker of the House. So Boehner is saying, give me the title, but don’t expect me to actually do the job.
Thank you for all the good news this day – your politics – compared to anywhere else in the world – is, as a minimum “interesting”. Headline from my state newspaper this am “State considering dumping compulsory voting”
Have they been learning from the US GOP State governors – cornerstone of our democracy is compulsory voting! Get rid of it they say!
Meanwhile, I watched Gov Christie’s press conference – and despite he is “political” in all he does and says – I didn’t think it was aimed at 2016. Yet again, he spoke well of the President – and it seems to me the primaries would be vicious to him in this regard – no true republican agrees on anything the President says or does.
Very pleased to see Sullivan going it alone – the “maths” (well he is a republican) just doesn’t add up – so it shouldn’t last too long. I haven’t visited his site since his meltdown after the debate – checked in this am to note he is regurgitation loving emails from those who would subscribe – his blog is very much about self and self interest – his reasoning is poor – and he has more holidays than George W Bush.
The house politics certainly looks as if Boehner was promised the speakership by someone in return for passing the financial bill. I really can’t imagine that Nancy Pelosi would want to be the leader of such a pig headed group of haters – much better to see the GOP implode under Boehner – and then 2014 would allow her to be speaker for the first two & last two years of President Obama’s administration. There seems to be little hope of any sane governing by the house before 2014.
The media seems defined by the clip Linda provided of Luke Russert and his BFF Failed VP candidate Ryan – for very different reasons – and I never thought I’d ever say it – I agree with Sarah Palin – the media is a big fail.
uggghhhh. You know can they get someone who wasn’t in diapers during the Clinton Administration? That girl who was hosting it has a ANNOYING voice. And then they have that Tourre turd and then this fuckwad Karnacki. It’s worse than listening to teenage girls discussing their nail polish.
I never watch TV anymore but hadn’t realized it was this awful. I would pay lots for a straight news channel. Maybe Al Jazeera won’t get corrupted and stick to their current program style.
I liken that girl’s voice to a death rattle. I wonder why did FAUX NEWS DROP her? The only person who makes sense on that CYCLE is Crystal Ball.
The comments on here tonight are so spot on. The firebaggers get paid to lie and skew information. I hope Stephanie Miller can get a contract with Al Jazzera.
Fantastic LL! For sure there isn’t enough analysis of how POTUS is remaking the Dem Party so I’m glad you addressed that. It’s always focused on what he is doing to the opposition. Really liked it and retweeted.
I think he is beginning to accomplish his real goals: awakening the voice of the people in our democracy. Getting us to pay attention and do our homework. Giving us back the gift of civic participation.
I preface this by saying that I am on my third CD of Les Miserables. I worn out the other two. Les Miz and Phantom are my two favorite musicals. I have seen it about a dozen times on stage. I belong to the Les Miz cult.
Now that we have that out of the way…
I LOVED IT!!!
LOVED IT!!
The casting was PERFECT.
Though Hugh Jackman is a singer and a Broadway performer, and Russell Crowe is not… it doesn’t matter. Both men on the screen SCREAM their characters. They went into the souls of Jean ValJean and Javert and brought them on the screen.
There isn’t a spoken word in the entire movie – it’s all sung….and it was rocking.
The visuals of the movie are grand and sweeping.
The music, of course, was wonderful.
But, it was the casting of the rest of the movie that hit the spot. Anne Hathaway gave it her all for Fantine and made me tear up.
Earlier this week I saw a youtbe video of an elderly couple that had cried afterwards while giving a review- I went with plenty of tissues, and I needed them.
My tears really started coming when Eponine died…I can’t say enough about the young people that they cast – they were living their characters. By the end of the movie, I was blubbering. Crowe was marvelous, and by Javert’s end, he had me sympathetic towards him.
Jackman as Prisoner 24601 – simply divine.
Divine.
To the Les Miz cultists like myself, they threw us a bone by having the priest that saved Val Jean portrayed by the man most consider to be the best Jean Val Jean ever on stage.
There literally is nothing that I would change about the movie.
Even if you’ve never heard Les Miz before, I can’t see how anyone would be disappointed in the movie. It is a beautiful, stand alone movie.
here’s the last line: ‘ Partisan gerrymanders, like the one that now all but locks the GOP majority in place, have been the subject of repeated court challenges. America can thank the five conservative justices on the Supreme Court for allowing these gerrymanders to continue. ‘
so true, and i’m betting pbo has a nice list of names to replace them when the time comes. meanwhile, local and regional judges are the fist stop in these challenges, and they are more within our power to replace. we need to all find out how and by whom they’re selected (differs by state) and make sure the rethugs don’t pack the courts with their appointees.
This is true. But you know what? We won in 2006 by 8% of the vote, with an equally gerrymandered landscape. I have a feeling it will happen again in 2014.
Swoon! My grandma loved her some Billy Eckstine. As well as Johnny Hartman. One of the two was always playing on the stereo whenever we went to visit…brings back good memories. And no I don’t want any refugs or whiny howler monkeys on the left messin with this song or the one below. They can just have a seat….permanently. Keep comin’ up with the gems from the basement Yardarm!
Damn shoes I had forgotten about Johnny. He use to drop in a neighborhood joint called the Other Place that was owned by Lurlean Hunter. Deep, deep. His niece owns a local Chi-town weekly called In`Digo, Hermene Hartman. Johnny was on his form in the late ’60′s. Thanks for the jog. I ain’t gonna ever get out of the bsmt, huh?
Yardarm, please stay in the “bsmt.” Besides, you’ve inspired many others to visit their basements or wherever they’ve stored all these precious collections.
.@GovChristie – For all your bluster, you aren't man enough to call out your own party by name on their treasonous #Sandy vote. Coward.— (@amk4obama) January 03, 2013
Why is the so called progressive left swooning over this punk?
that was a good post DF. Poor GottaLaf, I had no idea she was having that kind of trouble. You just never expect online interactions to go bad. I wonder who it was so I can be sure to stay the heck away from that person. It will certainly make me more careful
I watched the press conference in it’s entirety on cspan and he did call out his party quite often. 5-10 times during the Q &A. He didn’t say GOP but referred to it as “the party of the majority”. I think he did that because he didn’t include the Senate or the GOP as a whole.
In the Q&A, he said both sides do this type of thing too often but this time it was “his” party. I’m not sure if cspan has the whole tape of it but he called out Boehner and the “party of the majority” several times.
In addition he regularly referenced the bipartisanship with Dems in both NY and NJ working with the GOP congresspersons in those states. I can see why he would be a tough candidate – he answers the questions asked and doesn’t beat around the bush.
Found the video that includes the Q&A. Worth watching to form own opinion. I think he was very, very critical of the House GOP. I’m not knowledgeable enough to figure out if it was all political theater – I don’t think it was. I would never vote for him but I can see how some Independents would be impressed with his performance.
“Why is the so called progressive left swooning over this punk?”
Amk, many of the so called progressives, in my humble opinion, are frauds! Quite a few of them are born again progressives who used to be right wing Republicans. Case in point: Arianna Huffington.
Won't make my Year in Photos, but here's one of my favorite iPhone photos from 2012: Bo posing for me in Oval Office http://t.co/UyVdSmnE— (@petesouza) January 02, 2013
Love that dog! What a great shot. He’s so photogenic; just like his humans! My sister, knowing how much I love this dog, got me my very own BO for Christmas. ‘Course he’s a stuffed animal and my sister and I are waaay past the “stuffed animals on the bed” stage, but hey, he looks just the real BO!
Um..this article is from the same Ezra Klein, who just ~24 hrs ago (and for the better part of the last 2-3 weeks) was spewing garbage about PBO “caving” and PBO raising medicare age, and PBO cutting SS.
I just cannot take this guy seriously. He’s trying to be relevant; trying to seem smarter that PBO on serious legislative matters, and treats it as a damn game. Klein is neither a constitutional scholar nor an experienced politician. Why should his opinions mean anything to us?
Totally agree hopefruit. What a condescending tweet. I’m going to start calling them punks instead of pundits. If anyone of his “followers” were confused on the fiscal cliff deal it was thanks to him and his concern trolling for the past week. I now have figured out how to get accurate news from various blogs and tweeters I follow and have little to no use for Ezra Klein and his fellow political punks.
Oh please. Everyone says different things on different days. Im’ not going to dismiss what he’s saying just because he doesn’t agree with everything PBO does.
“Im’ not going to dismiss what he’s saying just because he doesn’t agree with everything PBO does.”
That is NOT what my issue with Klein is and you know it. So put away the “cheerleader” argument typically used by Firebaggers, because that’s exactly where you’re headed with this comment.
“Everyone says different things on different days”
That is not true. If PBO kept changing his tongue every 2-3 weeks we would call him a flip-flopper as we did with Mitt Romney.
Just last night Klein was chicken-littling about the deal right after it passed in the house. What about the bill has changed substantively between last night at 11:30 and today? Not a damn thing.
This is the same guy who got “liberals” including our BWD so riled up over the last several weeks, putting out article after article, tweet after tweet about how PBO was going to raise Medicare age, cut SS, etc., and now he gets to patronizingly tell them when to calm down?
He’s another hack who cares about nothing but advancing his professional career and lining his pockets. I don’t need Klein to “explain” to me what a fantastic bill this is after he ranted on and on about what a terrible deal it was. I knew long ago that PBO was going to get the best deal under prevailing circumstances, and I have not wavered from that position. My ideas about PBO’s actions and policies don’t shift according to media personality/pundits’ moods and needs for revenue.
100% agree with you, Hope. Klein is a little pipsqueak whose head is a little big for what he actually knows and absolutely too big for what he’s actually done.
BRAVO,Bravo, Hopefruit! We on this blog must stop defending these people who inflame people against the President based on rumors and then turn around and pretend that they are supportive of the President when their bs turns out false. I know there are people on this site who seem uncomfortable with your fearless truth telling, but I really appreciate your fearlessness in exposing frauds masquerading as intelligent pundits. Keep on Keeping on, speaking the TRUTH! Personally, I am sick and tired of two types of liberals/progressives: the fair weather liberals/progressives, like Ezra Klein; and the holier than thou purity progressives like firebaggers.
Yes she did because that’s exactly what you sound like…
And please spare us the ‘I’ve been on this blog, donated and canvassed for President Obama’ stuff because we’ve heard enough of that crap here from people trying to seek cover for their ridiculous support for idiots like Ezra Klein who keep disrespecting President Obama simply because there’ll always be suckers who keep validating and encouraging Ezra’s tired, disrespectful, lame, dishonest, self-serving butt …
I so agree hopefruit2, I saw Chris Matthews talking yesterday and he talk like the reason POTUS won re-election was all do to Bill Clinton. That really piss me off.
Some one should challenge Chris Matthews to run for President and then invite Bill Clinton to campaign for him. If Matthews wins then I would be ready to accept his assertion that Clinton was responsible for President Obama’s re-election. It’s really a sad day in the U.S. media when people, like Chris Matthews, are given a megaphone to spew nonsense while being regarded as serious political analysts. By the way, the same Chris Matthews wanted President Clinton impeached and removed from office over the Lewinsky affair. Pundits like Chris Matthews, Ezra Klein, Ed Shultz and even sometimes Rachel Maddow are, in my humble opinion, two-faced!
This is so true, and a lesson that some are refusing to learn. The fact is, when their favourite candidate struggles in 2016, they’ll find a way to blame it on President Obama’s “lackluster” support – ignoring the fact that there will only ever be one Barack Obama, and most of them are missing out on his presidency.
I have jokingly said that the 2016 and 2020 elections will be all about President Obama – who he decides to endorse, why he didn’t support so-and-so (betrayal), what his role in the campaign will be, his 2016 DNC speech, what FLOTUS wears at the 2017 inauguration, How grown the girls are, Malia voting for the first time, Sasha having to go to new HS, Bo approaching middle age in dog years, etc…
Sadly, you’re right. If he throws his weight behind one candidate (e.g. his loyal VP), then the pro-Clinton crowd will explode – even if she doesn’t have a chance at beating the GOP, and especially if she decides not to run (as she’s been saying and insisting). The professional left needs to be ignored.
I don’t believe Hillary will run – she has said it a number of times – the GOP want her to run because they think the voters will want a white male for the next President. They would revive every bad thing that was said about the Clintons in the 1990s if Hillary was a candidate. The President can wash their vile comments away – more difficult for others to duplicate how he does this.
Now, hopefruit, you and I both know that the dem asshats will be crawling all over each other like snakes trying to get PBO to campaign on their behalf. All of the things they’re doing/saying against him now will be conveniently forgotten. These folks are experts at rewriting history.
I don’t know of any candidate who can draw a crowd like PBO. Even when Hillary was running, she did not draw large crowds like PBO. I am also sick of Tweety saying the same old crap. He always compare PBO with JFK. Doesn’t he know that we are in a different century? Things have changed. Also PBO has his own way of governing.
You know what COS, some of us oldies know that JFK, unlike BHO, barely won the Presidency. There was also no guarantee that he was going to be re-elected amidst the Civil Rights turmoil and the slowly escalating war in Vietnam, which, I might add, he had a hand in starting. Don’t get me wrong. I loved JFK. I think he was a great President. He certainly was intelligent, thoughtful and had Charisma. What I hate is all this mythologizing about JFK, by hacks, like Matthews, pretending to be historians, as an excuse or cover to trash President Obama.
JFK didn’t accomplish as much as BHO did in the first three years of his presidency. Yes his resolve and diplomatic skills in diffusing the Cuban Missile Crisis was impressive. But he really hadn’t done much on the domestic front. It took the massive and sustained Civil Rights protests to finally convince him, in his third year in office, to submit the Civil Rights Act to Congress. I strongly believe that had President Kennedy not been assassinated it would have been difficult to pass the 1964 Civil Rights Bill. People who pay no attention to history forget to point out that it took almost a year, and two presidents, to pass the 1964 Civil Rights Act. For some of us who are old enough and care to jog our memories, we still remember that the memory of a slain President played a big role in convincing Congress to pass the Bill. That’s not to minimize the political skills exerted by LBJ. But to this day, I still don’t believe that it’s accurate to simply focus on LBJ’s political skills while ignoring the political climate in the aftermath of a slain President.
Every candidate is different and brings a different coalition of voters to the polls. Rarely do you see the same coalition hold up through different presidents, even of the same party, in modern politics.
What got Bush reelected in ’04 wasn’t there for McCain in ’08 – namely the larger evangelical vote and a respectable portion of the Hispanic vote. Gore couldn’t win with the coalition that Clinton won with in the 90s, specifically the southern vote, which abandoned him for Bush in 2000. Even H.W. Bush had difficultly in ’88 keeping together the Reagan factions and they all fell apart in ’92.
So, this is why people shouldn’t get too cocky about the Democratic position and the demographics favoring their campaigns. While they certainly are benefited by the white male population becoming less and less influential overall, there are still groups they need to win in order to successfully keep the White House – and it’s not a guarantee without Obama at the top of the ticket.
1) Blacks have turned out in record numbers these past two elections. While they’ll continue to support Democrats, no matter who is the nominee in ’16, it’s not clear if less political blacks will turn out – which is something that has been an issue for Democrats in the past. Blacks made up 13% of the turnout in ’12 and ’08 – yet only 11% in ’04. That 2% might not seem like much, but in a close election, it could be the difference … especially in swing states like Ohio, Florida and Virginia.
In Ohio, the black turnout was 10% of the overall population in ’04 – Kerry won 84%. In 2012, they made up 15% of the overall voting population in Ohio and Obama won ‘em with 96%. So, not only did blacks turn out by 5% more than in ’04 there, they voted 12% more for Obama than Kerry. That’s the election right there. Had the same numbers we saw in 2004 repeated themselves in ’12, Obama would’ve lost the state. Similarly, if black turnout was at 15% there in ’04 and Kerry managed to win 96% of that vote, he would’ve Ohio and therefore the presidency.
So, automatically, you’re looking at the potential of black voters taping off a bit in the next election without Obama on the ticket. By how much? Who knows. But just a little could be enough to throw the election to the Republicans.
2) Youth vote. We saw youth turnout at a higher rate than in ’08. Obama didn’t do as well as he did in ’08, but that higher turnout, and the fact he won ‘em overwhelmingly, helped erase that difference and it was another big reason he won. As much as we like Elizabeth Warren on the left, is she really going to inspire the youth vote to turn out in 2016? What about O’Malley, who I like? Probably not. Even Hillary might have a difficulty because let’s be honest, youth voters don’t necessarily go for the wonky and more the interesting. Obama was cool and he had the ability to reach them in a way that no presidential candidate since Clinton could. That was huge. In a lot of the ways, he spoke their language instead of speaking Washingtonian, which often goes over the heads of many 20-somethings.
3) Hispanics. This is a key group. This is the future of the party. The Democrats need Hispanics to succeed … the Republicans know it and the next candidate is going to have to tap into this group very similar to how Obama has. Now, if Rubio wins the nomination, or it’s Jeb Bush, the rate of the Hispanic vote is probably going to go down for the Democrats. Even if it was Obama on the ticket. I think they’d still it by a very sizable margin … but not with 70-plus percent of the vote, which is just astounding. Still, does a candidate like Warren have what it takes to be embraced by the Hispanic voters? What about Brian Schweitzer or Andrew Cuomo? It’s possible – but it remains to be seen.
Those three factions are what got Obama reelected. I don’t know if any other candidate can bring ‘em back together in a turnout rate necessary to win in ’16. The good news for Democrats is that two of these groups, blacks and Hispanics, will grow their ranks between now and the 2016 election. They will become a bigger part of our population percentage and the white vote will become smaller – as it has done most of the last five or so elections. That’s key because it does narrow the path the Republicans have. Still, it’ll take a Democrat stepping in and winning these factions a large margin – but also by getting ‘em out to the polls in record numbers. That remains to be seen.
On the flip side, so that we’re not focused on no path to victory, and maybe a lot here will not like hearing what I’m about to say, but each candidate also brings the potential for their own factions. Hillary Clinton could do much better than Obama not only with the female vote (Obama won it by 11), but also working class whites – who have, because of race issues, been reluctant to support Obama. That right there would almost certainly diminish the gains Republicans could make by a lower turnout among youth & blacks and smaller overall percentage from Hispanic voters.
But that’s Hillary Clinton. The rest of the candidates, from Warren to Cuomo to O’Malley to even Cory Booker, they don’t have coalition of their own yet. If Brian Schweitzer runs for president and is the nominee – what’s his coalition? It’s not like Bill Clinton the 90s who brought the southern vote back into play for the Democrats. Schweitzer isn’t going to make Idaho, Wyoming or Utah anymore Democratic and Montana only has three electoral votes. How will he play in Ohio and Virginia and North Carolina and Florida?
Likewise, Cuomo, from New York, might bring together a coalition of white voters because of his Italian heritage and his family name, but the region he comes from is already Democratic and how is his affiliation with the NE going to play out west and in the south? That’s a legitimate question because he doesn’t necessarily have the ability to stretch regions.
This is why guys like Clinton and Obama win – because they are capable of bringing together different groups to succeed. Clinton won by taking a traditionally Republican region and flipping it Democratic – winning in states like Arkansas, Louisiana, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri and Tennessee. Obama was able to put states like Virginia, Indiana and North Carolina into play in ’08 because of his coalition.
I don’t see any of that from Schweitzer, Warren, Booker or Cuomo – though that can be built and maybe it’ll happen. But right now? It’s foolish to expect them to duplicate Obama’s path. They need to create their own. Schweitzer might be able to do it because he’s not a traditional Democrat, as he’s very similar to Bill Clinton in that regard. I don’t think Warren can play nationally and I don’t think Cuomo will, either.
The only other option is Hillary who is probably a lock, but now with health problems…who knows? I think the prospects of the Republicans winning in ’16 are fairly good if Hillary is not the nominee. And it’s a big reason I’m not quite ready to write their party off.
Of course, if they keep doing what they’re doing, no candidate is going to be able to overcome that brand – not Bush, Rubio or even Christie.
Exactly! Besides, in 2008 there was no 47% video and Bill Clinton was not a factor, yet the President received 10 million more votes than McCain! As much as I like and respect Bill Clinton, the fact of the matter is Bill Clinton, both 1n 1992 and 1996, never received 50+1% of the popular votes. People can do all their re-writing about President Obama, but the record w still shows that President Obama is one of the six Presidents in history to receive the majority of popular votes twice. He did that in spite of vicious opposition, a hostile press and race baiting.
Thank you to the doctors, nurses & staff at NewYork Presbyterian Hospital Columbia University Medical Center for taking great care of my Mom— Chelsea Clinton (@ChelseaClinton) January 02, 2013
Let me help us out here. Usually when I post, the thread changes and I am left here alone and by the time I finish, 50 people have signed in. So you see if I keep writing this mindless topic about absolutely nothing, Chips will come. I have been left here so long and the last ne on the thread that It feel like home. So this is the last sentence that I will write b/c I am so sure you guys are already gu us are already there. So as I leave……see you when I see you.
Did it work?
HAHAHAHA! This is the funniest thing I’ve read all night on Twitter
If Crist can become a Dem, Christie can become a Dem…heck even Ron Christie could become a Dem….ok…..I have my limits— Jeff Gauvin (@JeffersonObama) January 03, 2013
Chips, you can swim, right?
I don’t know about this body surfing thing. I think I will stick hanging out in Yardam’s basement. The music is very relaxing…..(some times)
Hope all is well.
Methinks Chips might have fallen asleep from sheer exhaustion (holidays, work, catching up). If that’s the case then it’s okay Chips, we will abide with patience and love until you return safely
Ok, wanted to give you guys what I feel as a Canadian and watching the fiscal cliff, and then now the even more ignorance of how this GOP party is handling the devastation far too long for relief of this super storm in NJ and NY. Chris Christie is doing the right thing, and I really liked hearing what he said today. He isn’t a stupid person, and he has Americans in mind for his own purpose. This bastard that tried to take down the President in this election has changed his tune. Why is that? I’m feeling very strongly he has only done this to learn how much he thinks he wants to be President and take down the tea party. He might actually be feeling with all of his glory that He wants to re-establish the Republican party to what it once was, while taking notes from your President. I have one thing to say to Christi…If you think for one moment you want a presidency in 2016… here are a few pointers that you seem to be faltering on…
1. If you lose your temper, nobody likes to listen to an arrogant person, people want to have their questions answered. As a President, you better be able to hold your temper and not want to actually get into a fist fight with civilians while walking down the street eating ice-cream.
2. You better be healthy, being a President isn’t eating Krispy Cream donuts and divulging in the kitchen of the Whitehouse. You will have to become fit and lose 100 pounds. The job of a President requires this.
3. You will have to learn how to negotiate with the world and once again lose that temper that you have.
I think this is a good start to the advice for Christie, but to be honest, he just doesn’t have what it takes to be President. Just because someone wants the presidency, and they have the support of a rabid right wing base and their media puppets, does not mean that they were ever meant for the role. Christie could lose 200 pounds, could get his talking points right, and attend anger management classes. But, judging from his first acts as governor when he decided his trip to Disney World was more important than the impending storm hitting his state, to his two-faced flip-flop right before and after Hurricane Sandy – he has demonstrated that he’s in it for himself, and will do whatever he calculates as right for his own purposes. He’s a right winger, he believes in the right wing philosophy – and no loyalty to his state can overcome that foundation of wrongness. He can’t cover up the wrong with some superficial nonsense – he’s just not meant to be President, and he’s lucky to ever have become governor – he’s just not up to that responsibility.
Theo67 you are so right. My mind has not changed about him at all. Some Dems are getting caught up in the moment. Just before Sandy hit, he was going around the country campaigning for a liar and saying that PBO was not a leader. He is not presidential material. I can’t see him dealing with world leaders diplomatically.
You are right on the mark theo! I didn’t even know about a prior storm hitting his state and running away. Fucking coward, I feel he is taking this Sandy devastation to his own selfishness and what he might gain from it for 2016. What a creep really.
President Obama signs 'fiscal cliff' bill that boosts taxes on top earners, while preserving tax cuts for middle class: yhoo.it/WfyEk9— Yahoo! News (@YahooNews) January 03, 2013
Dear President @BarackObama HOPE you KNOW that the 2009 GOP Insurgency against you & America is no secret. YOU & WE Prevailed #FORWARD @vj44— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) January 03, 2013
America – inform yourselves of the Section IV, 14th Amendment to the US Constitution & awaken to the GOP having ZERO LEVERAGE over #PBO — Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) January 03, 2013
1 of the really special consequences of having the 1st PRESIDENT since IKE to win twice with > 51% is that for the next 4 yrs PBO #IsTheMAN— Bobfr (@Our4thEstate) January 03, 2013
Hi folks, trust you all had a great day. Chips, LOVED the body surfing pic!
I have deliberately avoided the Internet all day, except stopping in to read here. There is so much RWNJ garbage out there today, I just can’t subject myself to all that insanity! Interesting stuff happening today…glad Hillary is recovering, that’s great news. I’m glad Christie is calling out the R’s and Boehner, but I do believe he is merely a clever politician and not terribly sincere. And then there’s the Violence Against Women Act…who votes against something like that????
Hey Rain – you’re very wise to stay away from the internet and all the RW nonsense. I managed to catch up on work and clear some of my DVR shows – it’s just pointless watching the pundits try and execute their agenda. The President is out of town, enjoying the last days of his vacation, and there’s very little actual news to report (in the US), and the media isn’t interested in reporting any global news – even though there a TON of stuff happening around the world. So, watching the “news” at this point is an exercise in frustration, as the pundits are just making it all up. We’ll need to rest up before the inauguration, then the State of the Union, and then the sequester and debt ceiling fiascos that are on the way. Rest up, the President is going to need us ready to fight back against the noise.
Well stated! They don’t call it the “noise machine” for nothing. For sanity and clarity best to not watch political pundit shows and get your news sparingly from selected sources. This is a great spot to get a reality check.
Watched The Last Word tonight and thank goodness Lawrence pushed back at the BS being propagated by the emo-left that Pres. Obama “caved” to the GOP. Lawrence pointed out that if anyone thinks Pres. Obama rolled over for the GOP, then they’re not very smart. When the first George Bush raised taxes, he only got 19 votes from the GOP. Pres. Obama got way more than that (89-8) and yet the GOP won? The GOP stared over the fiscal cliff and backed down and anyone who thinks otherwise really doesn’t understand the art of negotiation.
You also must watch the ‘Rewrite’ he did last night and your level of respect for Sen. Harry Reid will most definitely rise. While the media was yelling about the fiscal cliff, they didn’t realize that Pres. Obama was working behind the scenes with Harry Reid to arrange for the votes needed to pass the deal in the senate. He sent VP Biden to the senate to smooth things over and tie up loose ends and anyone who thinks Pres. Obama was weak behind the scenes truly doesn’t know the man. Lawrence pointed out that while the fiscal cliff deal was being hammered, Harry Reid got 100 votes to confirm Pres. Obama’s choice to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), confirmed an Ambassador, and got a mini tax bill dealing with the flu vaccine through the senate.
I’m just waiting for Harry to adopt “Honey Badger” as his middle name because damn….damn…damn.
Thanks UT, as always, for sharing the facts, and just the facts, with us! I rarely watch TV news but I may start checking out Lawarence O. Based on some of the clips posted here, he seems to be one of the few pundits who understand clearly how the political system works.
@Lawrence makes crucial point that rest of us seem to have missed; 1992 Clinton $250,000 tax bracket is approx $397,000 today. $400,000 Hmmm— 21st CENTURY | Bill (@Political_Bill) January 03, 2013
No one who backed W's tax cuts for rich and Iraq war is allowed to talk about debt. Ever. RT@jmillstead @PaulBegala how much is debt up?— Paul Begala (@PaulBegala) January 03, 2013
Working late in my studio, listening to this piece and thought of all of my new TOD friends and all the love and support for PBO here, so I thought I’d share. Enjoy.
Waiting for @FoxNews bloviation about A-rabs buying Current while forgetting that parent News Corp is partly owned by…Al-Waleed bin Talal.— Barracks O'Bama (@P0TUS) January 03, 2013
Wow I made it
Good Day everyone!
Way to get her fast sweetpeg…it’s tricky!
Thanks Carol, yes it’s tricky.
🐑
Testing, testing…
Working?
Yippy!
The president needs to surf a bit
Can we lay in bed, chug wine, have sex, and then body surf? We Can? Ok then.
UT, you’ve got the order completely wrong!
See ya later.
D.O.L.!
someone’s having too much fun!!
We grow best “from the middle, out” remember?
We also do very very very well “from the bottom up.”
touche
Aloha~ Mr. President
Good afternoon all ya hearties. Late to this party I am. df, I see you’ve taken up my position in the audio booth. Well done. I can relax.
What pep talk? Did I miss something? HELP?
DF, don’t know if you will see my comment on the last post re the cat video, thank you! Happy New Year! Took it straight to my FB page, where I then watched it again. I may watch it every hour of the rest of today! Love it!
This is what we escaped by working hard to reelect PBO. Just reading this article takes me back to why I phonebanked, went door to door even though I am afraid of dogs and also can’t vote. HAPPY NEW YEAR folks! http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2012/12/story-behind-47-video?page=1
I forgot to to say good morning everyone, was excited about being first. lol
Peoples, I am wanting a clearer picture of what happened last night.
What had the Republicans decide to vote for the bill?
It seems to me that something shifted.
Did big money call them on the phone and give them orders?
Did Nancy Pelosi/Joe Biden say something different?
A comment at the end of ThePeople’sView this morning said,
PBO knew when he had the press conference on 12/31 that
the “tumblers had fallen into place” . . . . and it was just a matter of
time . . . letting things work through the b.s.
What did PBO and others see such that they could be pretty sure
it was going to pass? The process seemed so chaotic; they must
have been figuring on that as well, and then from chaos . . .
something emerges? Is that how it can go?
Bobfr, requesting your comments here, and others, as well.
thanks.
x2
You may have gotten this in your own email, but I just got an e-mail explaining it from David Plouffe, WhiteHouse.gov blog explains the effects. Doesn’t really explain what you were asking though. Hope I spelled David’s last name right.
Sara, my husband is convinced that it was big money telling them to lay off the crap or the markets would crash and their own money would dry us. If you remember, PBO had a meeting with a lot of big corporate types and they were all in agreement that the cliff had to
be avoided. It was only the teahadists in the House who thought it would be cool to have another recession because they can’t see two
feet in front of them. I also think that Cantor’s little insurrection convinced Boehner he had to get something done fast. The Senate vote had also positioned the R’s in the House to take the entire blame for higher taxes on the middle class. As a little added bonus the screech corner known as the emoprogs made it seem like the president would get some blame from his own party.
Thank you, Jackie and Carol, for responding to my query. . . . And also see below, response from Bobfr.
Sara, the markets tell the story. I think the Senate Rs, and even Bernie Sanders, knew that they did not want to have to face the absolute reality of a market crash that would have started in the Indonesian, Australian, Chinese, etc markets if the deal did not get done and would have swept the globe like a financial tsunami we’ve only seen a few times (think 2008, 1987, or worse). I also think that many of them considered it likely that Cantor and the teahadist would prevail – so they had to be on the ‘right side of history’ even though the GOP would have been blamed no matter how those R Senators voted.
As to what happened in the House, it’s obvious Speaker Pelosi was in charge and a sufficient number of Rs, including Boehner, knew the calamity that awaited in the financial markets and they essentially told Cantor and the Teahadists yesterday afternoon to pound sand.
We saw a global market response at nearly a 3 point rise – if that bill had not passed the house last night you could have easily seen a 6 or greater point drop and all hell break loose not just in equity markets but in currency, commodities, etc. We’d be witnessing a very, very different 2 Jan 2013, 2017 PST, than we are now.
So, yes, an enormous amount of ‘market’ pressure came to bear on Rs and I have zero doubt that PBO knew when he was sticking it to the Rs on Monday that they had no real choice. That still left the possibility of the crazy – from Cantor and the Teahadists, but I think the calculus had been done by Speaker Pelosi that way too many Rs were going to tell both Boehner & Cantor to go to hell if they didn’t allow the Senate bill to come to a vote. Obviously, Boehner’s (aka Cantor’s) alternative couldn’t even get 218 within the Rs majority in the House.
All speculation – above – but it seems reasonable speculation, at least to my pea brain
#TrustBarack
Thank you, Bobfr. I hear you that it’s speculation, but it also has a “rings true” to it. okay, then.
Moving forward with this “understanding”, I see that doing the right thing for the peoples and
doing the right thing for the market can be a fine dance, which is what PBO has been pointing
to all along: we do best when the middle class thrives. We rise together or we don’t rise at all.
“… which is what PBO has been pointing to all along: we do best when the middle class thrives. We rise together or we don’t rise at all.”
Precisely, Sara!
#FORWARD
One more reason why I am eternally grateful for Pres. Obama.
indeed!!
http://www.thepragmaticpundit.com/2013/01/president-obama-emancipates-gop.html#more
21st century Emancipation Proclamation?
Chris Christie is blasting Boehner at his presser. It’s on CNN.
It’s your party, Gov. Christie. Why do you stay? They hate the NE states and won’t give them a dime.
Bill, he still needs to spell it out. “And yes, it was my party, the REPUBLICAN PARTY that failed that test.” I really want the whole of the US to see this. No more mealy mouthed “House majority.” This is a betrayal by House Republicans and it will keep happening again and again until the people of this country elect Democratic majorities in the House and keep electing them in the Senate.
Yes, he just can’t quite bring himself to use the word “Republicans”.
yep, he’s so mad his jowls are a-flapping.
Good! That is so funny!
Eric Cantor must haaaaaaaaate John Boehner. He called Christie and told him that Boehner and Boehner alone pulled the vote for Sandy relief. I wonder how that knife feels on Boehner’s back.
I’m curious about what Boner has to gain by not voting for this. has anyone seen him since last night? Do the teabutts have him drawn and quartered somewhere. Why wouldn’t he try and save face from his beatdown and at least vote this one? Cantor doesn’t gain on this either,. He re-enforces his snake-in-the-grass image by saying he would handle it, now he can’t. So are the Teabutts holding them both by the short hairs? What’s the Pubs point?
DAMN……House GOP and Boehner are not faring well in the public eye.
wow. 4x’s? And of course Boehner’s gotta know what he’s calling about. That’s just not right.
Sounds like a love-sick person. Is it working now? Testing.
Who’s picture is that?
Things that make you go hmmmm?
This is the LIVE feed for Christie’s presser.
http://live.reuters.com/Event/Politics
Let’s get started, eh.
Wow. I think we may actually get marriage equality in IL. I’m going to be invited to soooo many weddings. I’m already expected to be a bridesmaid for two Puma’s who I helped bring to PBO’s side and where they happily stayed after his move on marriage equality.
oops. Forgot the link: https://twitter.com/ILBlogNetwork/status/286543516597903360
I see Cardinal George is urging his fellow Catholics to rise up against this possibility. Good ol’ Catholic Church again.
I loathe this liar. When he lied about contraception and ACA and had his priests read his lies from the pulpit, I just about lost it.
Well, the Pope himself used the Christmas address to bash gay marriage.
go for it, you increasingly irrelevant jackasses (my apologies to our fellow Catholics).l
Sad. The Catholic Church is far behind the times. However, on the subject of income inequality and poverty, the message of the Pope was on the right side of things.
aloha and good hawaii morning chips and tod ohana~
i slept really well last night, and i hope you all did too. it felt like the whole year’s campaign and election culminated in that one moment last night when he said, we’re not doing this any more. his righteous fury was right there on his face. then he just walked out to the chopper and flew to hawaii–beautiful!!!
i hope he’s relaxing today, having fun with his kids, and catching some waves. get those bare feet into the sand, pbo!!!
this is for you mr president, with much aloha~
Thanks Suzanne. Testing my computer. Random post. Sorry.
Working?
yes.
Really?
And maybe POTUS and FLOTUS will celebrate New Year’s night with a private dinner, and there own count down to 2013, and of course the kiss.
yes, some time together, walking hand in hand under the hawaii moon. with the secret service discreetly off to the side!
I have to say that would be a little creepy—–always having someone trailing along, even if they’re off to the side.
i know. i envisoned them doing what my husband and i do when on vacation in maui, walking on the beach at night, smooching in the shadows. i know pbo and the first lady are constantly watched, so we have seen photos of them sharing a kiss, a smile, a snuggle. but truly, there’s a lot lost when your only truly private moments are behind firmly closed doors.
YOU HAVE TO SEE THIS! Christie is SLAMMING BONER!
http://www.livestream.com/governorchrischristie
House GOP blocks Violence Against Women Act
http://maddowblog.msnbc.com/_news/2013/01/02/16305284-house-gop-blocks-violence-against-women-act?lite
Standby, I’m on a roll here.
one of my favorites, thanks
OT: Thx so much Yardarm for the link to Chitown Smooth Jazz. I’ve been listening to all those channels ever since and really enjoying them.
Glad you liked it. There are a coupla of other channels out there that are just as good. I’ll see if I can dig a few of them up for ya. Stay tuned.
Talking about jazz, is anyone going on the Straight Ahead Jazz Cruise, the last week of January 2013? Do let me know.Would love to meet up.
Simon & Garfunkel get me through Chicago rush hours on a regular basis. Don’t know why, but it’s my music of choice on the commute home.
And yes, you’re on quite a roll.
Thanks. Paul Simon is one of my favs.
thanks for that one; I love S & G
You betcha.
Okay, I think we may be seeing Chris Christie reconsidering his fealty to the GOP.
Nah…..as much as we love him ripping them up, it’s just more politics. Remember, 2016 is on the horizon.
I agree with you, UT – Christie is as money and power hungry as any other Republican, and more selfish and callous than most.
Precisely…
I am listening to Gov. Christie and boy is he sticking it to Boehner. And I am loving it.
whatever. he’s pandering. we must not let him get away with his latest grift. as a reminder of who we’re talking about, here he was just a few months ago:
Oh don’t dare think , that I’m falling in love with Gov. Christie, No! No! No!
Annie, don’t even think it. He’s grifting. While there is truth to the House dissin’ NY and NJ, Christie is positioning himself for 2016. Nothing more, nothing less.
Even so, whatever his motive right now, if it gets aid for the Hurricane Sandy victims, so be it! Go Christie. Besides, I really felt when President Obama visited NJ after the storm, Christie was genuinely gracious and thankful and showed it. Remember, he is a native of NJ and said he loves it. I may be (no, I am) naive but I really do think he wants what is best for NJ and NY and the citizens of those states.
DaisyDem,
I’m not denying that he wants the Sandy relief. But if he really wanted what was best for “his” state, he would set up his ACA medical exchange. He would have pressed his Senators and House reps to vote on the jobs bill, the violence against women act. He wouldn’t have blocked the high speed rail project, etc. etc.
I know what you are saying, but he’s grandstanding. Yes it’s for a good cause, but he’s grandstanding, nonetheless.
I hear you and you are probably right that he is. Still, one, if it gets the people in NJ the money they need, and two, if he rails against Boehner, than you just gotta love that. Just for today anyway!
Thanks for the reminder – many have short memories. You should tweet this out, since so many were singing his praises after just one positive act, but the same people seem to refuse to give President Obama the benefit of his stellar record of governing for the past four years (and more).
Isn’t it all just so mind-boggling…
now that would be a hoot!
awesome! RT’d
MSNBC is reporting that Pres. Obama will return to D.C. this weekend.
What? Why? Sandy? Jesus, Shrub would’ve let DC burn before returning from vacation.
House rental ends Jan. 6.
I actually wouldn’t have minded if President Obama had flown all the way to Hawaii, packed up his family and friends in Air Force One, and turned around to fly home. I hope they take every perk that is part of the Presidency, and enjoy every trip and advantage – because I know that the right wing will be twisting and writhing and complaining about every “vacation” (aka – weekend), and golf game, and dinner date – and there’s not one thing they can do about it. He’s earned it all. When the right wing start squealing about the 100 days in a year that the GOP-led House has worked, then they can talk.
That’s probably when the whole Obama family will return because the girls have to get back to school.
He was due to return by jan. 6.
I believe that Christie is honestly trying to take care of his constituents, but don’t think for a minute that he isn’t playing this up for all it’s worth. He will not be primaried and at this rate, he won’t even be opposed for his re-election.
Christie claims to care about people but he’s blocking low income people from getting health care under Medicaid expansion under the ACA.
yep, not to mention derailing the high-speed rail opportunity.
He did?? Now, that I cannot forgive him for … my push button this next 4 years is infrastructure, baby. And I want those trains (loved travelling by rail in Ireland, England and Scotland).
Glad to see Christie ream Boehner. But he is being dishonest by saying it’s not regional. Most of the GOP Senate voted against Sandy relief and they were from the South and the Midwest mostly, all states who get Fed. disaster relief.
True, Bill – and I called him on it ….
Yeah, but let them suffer a tornado and they all go crying to the big, bad Government to help them out. I am in the South, I know. God, somebody relocate me.
and I know this is bsns as usual, but I heard msnbc report today that all kinds of unrelated stuff was tagged onto the relief bill—–aid to fisheries in Alaska and a new roof for the Smithsonian etc. etc. etc.
not sure why christie seems to be letting Cantor off the hook. The same guy that held up disaster relief for HIS constituents during the tornadoes.
Chris Christie is just as disingenuous, callous, slimy and as opportunistic as Cantor…
Nothing’s changed except he’s running for re-election in a blue state where he’s convinced even Democrats that he’s ‘moderate’ and ‘reasonable’ and open to ‘bi-partisanship’ when in reality, he’s as corrupt, self-serving and callous as the next right winger…
ugghhh. Why put Markos here? Did you see his tweets and retweets just 48 hours ago about Dems caving and needing to act like they won an election? He’s the leader of the emoprogs.
Forus50, true re: Markos, but as my sweet mama would say, “Even a broken clock is right twice a day”
Exactly.
In less than a month ….
When domestic deaths outnumber those deaths in a war zone fighting against the most dangerous terrorists in the world (by almost 100%), then the situation is beyond desperate.
Wow. That’s terrible.
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2013/01/02/1387441/chris-christie-rips-house-gop-for-blocking-sandy-relief-shame-on-you/
Off to go tutor:)
Fun…fun..fun.
Good to hear.
I hope she doesn’t overdo it. She’s clearly a workaholic, but she’ll really need to take care of herself.
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2012/08/28/759151/raul-labrador-disaster-funding/
In 2011, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) led the Republican charge to deny disaster funding following major hurricanes and tornadoes unless the federal budget was cut in other areas.
Labrador said that Congress must “readjust everything we do” in order to find cuts to pay for Hurricane Isaac disaster relief. “If there’s emergencies, we don’t always need to keep borrowing money,” said the freshman Republican.
KEYES: Last year, for instance, after the Missouri tornado, Leader Cantor was a real “hold-the-line” to call for budget cuts to pay for disaster relief. Do you think that’s still the right strategy going forward if there’s damage from Hurricane Isaac?
LABRADOR: I think government should do what every family does. If you have an emergency, then you rethink your priorities and you still invest and you still do the things that you need to do to take care of your family. That’s what government should do is always reconsider. If there’s emergencies, we don’t always need to keep borrowing money, but we can actually take care of people that are in damaged communities by reconfiguring what we’re doing in Washington D.C.
KEYES: So find cuts to pay for those disaster funds?
LABRADOR: Find different ways to do it, absolutely. We have to readjust everything we do.
The problem with the GOP is that their only answer is to slam the middle class. As far as I’m concerned, any cuts should first be applied to Defense and the rich. They have room to maneuver. They want to offset any disaster relief? Then cut the tax breaks for oil companies. They want to cut spending? Then start with the Defense department. They want to reform entitlements? Then eliminate the cap on social security and payroll deductions. They want to draw down the deficit – then eliminate loopholes in the tax code so that the rich actually pay their taxes. There are a lot of solutions – but the media and the GOP only see the middle class and the poor as the targets for suffering.
Think that’s a good idea. Try putting it in tweet form, maybe? The House needs to realize they’re more like the bank as the board of directors. They’re the purse strings. If they go belly-up then the bank fails, ie, the USA. Rub they’re noses in it. Not good with words myself.
I don’t recall Christie asking the same House he’s so po’d with to pass the jobs bill or any other bill that would help his constituents. He knows full well it’s the teabutts who is holding his state hostage. Why doesn’t he call them out? #wassamattayouscurred?
I think Christie is a loud-mouth pejorative windbag and I don’t like the way he governs, but during an Oprah interview he expressed an undeniable truth, “Those who underestimate Barack Obama, underestimate him at their own peril. He’s as good a politician as I’ve ever seen…..And I think he’s genuine…..” . Clearly, he’s smarter than the rest of those neanderthals.
Even that statement to an Oprah audience was political. He’s slicker than owl poop. He knew what giving PBO a compliment in that setting would mean to his image. He may be politically smarter, but don’t let that fool you. He is a man on a mission, part of which is to get some PBO moderates in his corner. Thus becoming PBO’s new best buddy.
So true – he’s the exact type of person who should not have the kind of power he’s going to seek in 2016. His intentions are not pure.
Love your avatar. I’m new here. I’m trying to get some computer bugs out of my iPad. Just picking random comments to see if I’ve got my iPad fixed.
Good Day TodsVille
Hope everyone is having a wonderful day…I am still smiling at last night’s Win…PBO is one you don’t dare mess with, unless you asking for some A—whooping…LOL!!!! love the Man…and proud to support him through thick and thin.
(Hugs)
Was actually working and missed Christie…so for others in my shoes here it is:
Oops, that was just a clip. Found more here thanks to The PoliticalCarnival.net
http://thepoliticalcarnival.net/2013/01/02/video-chris-christie-there-is-only-one-group-to-blame-the-house-majority-and-their-speaker-john-boehner/
Thanks. He’s hard to take anytime.
At the 6:27 mark and multiple times there after the clip from Morning Joe show Luke standing against a wall when Paul Lyin Ryan walks past and the exchange is quite telling……..
Was Luke blowing kisses ? (just kidding )
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3036789/ns/msnbc_tv-morning_joe/#50341955
Joe is a POS!
Okay, I’m trying just to lurk, but that was the best! Last night, Lukie Boy’s sweaty face, loud voice, 5 o’clock shadow, and who knows what else goin’ on with him were really getting on my nerves – Ha! And to hear the host clown on C-Span read Wittle Wukey’s tweets from the House pretty much shows that even I could be a BFD correspondent for our current media.
Afternoon, Yardarm – thanks for the laugh!
You gotta luv the way the talking heads are now spinning this. POS’s!
and WOS’s!
good news–hope she can rest at home for a while. a blood clot in your brain has to be respected.
Definitely, susanne. Glad she’s home!
She’s going to be resting for awhile. Blood thinners are nothing to fool with.
Yay! Yahoo! …..Phew!
Did any of those sorry ass Republicans apologizes to SOS Clinton claiming she was faking her injury, sickness. I haven’t heard one.
On the contrary. Faux news is having some fun with it according to a snippet on Bashir’s show.
So good.
So do the ‘Pubs plan to let the country default, or will they list the actual cuts they want to spending? Hmmmm talk about a rock and hard place. Considering they couldn’t get 218 votes for an amendment that included spending cuts last night, what makes them think they have leverage to get them later? Are they really gonna tell their main constituents, the elderly, that they’re coming after them? Are they gonna tell the military industrial complex that they’re gonna have to tighten their belts? I think they expect PBO to bargain with himself by putting the cuts out there first. PBO will simply say, ‘please proceed MFers’ (merry fellows)
Good points cookemom. And thanks for clarifying what MF stands for!
Yeah, I thought it was something else.
GOP is in an ever weaker position and the President made it clear, yet again, that he will not in any way negotiate the debt ceiling with Congress.
During the summer of 2011 several folk, including President Clinton, noted that the language of Section IV of the 14th Amendment effectively renders any debt ceiling restriction unconstitutional.
President Obama is a way good enough Constitutional scholar to determine if that will be the instrument he uses to neuter Congress on the issue, once and for all (or until some future Congress amends the Constitution). He ‘took it off the table’ during the self-inflicted (by Congress) crisis in 2011. Senator Durbin, among others, urged him not to do so.
Perhaps, now that he is secure in his 2nd, historically significant, term he’s ready to invoke Section IV. For certain, he has been consistent and forceful that he will not, in any way, negotiate raising the debt ceiling.
Interesting times ….
#TrustBarack
Cookemom – I’ve been wondering the same thing. Watching Repubs gloat about now having the leverage, while not mentioning a single cut that they’re planning to go after, has been wonderful. They have no idea that they are just walking deeper and deeper into President Obama’s trap. They got away with not mentioning the cuts they want to implement during Romney’s failed attempt during the presidential campaign. They got away with it during this last “crisis”. And now, they think they’re going to sail into a debt and deficit battle – which the President has already said he’s not planning to join. I heard one of them stating that the President is kidding himself if he thinks he’ll be able to avoid getting into the debt ceiling debate. They clearly don’t realize that getting the President into the debt ceiling debate is the last thing they should be hoping for, because he’s going to expose them for what they are. He’s going to get the truth about their intentions with these “spending cuts”, and expose them for their attempted distortion of what the debt ceiling is all about, and then he’s going to expose them about their love of Defense dollars and willingness to throw the seniors into the cold. They have no idea what they’re in for.
So it doesn’t mean….just testing my iPad. Sorry.
Hi Chipsticks,
consider this for your next post. LOL they wouldn’t accept 10:1 spending cuts to revenue. Instead they got 1:41 spending cuts to revenue. And smart ass “what’s the score of the Wisconsin game?” media dubbed “policy wonk” Paul Ryan voted for it!!! LMAO!!
Once you are done bodysurfing
That’s what was behind the POTUS wink last night. Crushed them, crushed them, crushed them.
http://bobcesca.com/blog-archives/2013/01/how-far-weve-come.html
I love it! The emoprogs and the pundits aren’t talking about that. The couple of times I peeked into MSNBC, they were working hard to discount any “win” for President Obama. A complete joke – we all know the truth.
part 2 of sam wang’s analysis of gerrymandering, its impacts, and what to do about it.
‘ Which brings us to the topic I do care about: “bad government.” My goal is to identify actions that purposely separate the legislative process from overall popular will. It can also happen when redistricting is under the control of partisan legislators, who can (and do) protect incumbents or an entire political party. In the extreme, fewer than 50% of voters can elect more than 50% of the Representatives. In addition, the construction of polarized districts can leave policy positions at the mercy of primary voters. ‘
http://election.princeton.edu/2013/01/02/gerrymanders-part-2-how-many-voters-were-disenfranchised/
A President is never on vacation.
Well, not THIS President, anyway.
Indeed.
Randi Rhodes is effing fantastic today.
Can someone explain Mother Jones thinking please?
There’s a lot of this going around today, even from people I read regularly and respect. Some that I read regularly, I knew not to read today.
It’s all black and white, on both sides who see black and white differently.
Randi Rhodes is making the most sense of anyone I’ve read or listened to over the last three days.
Wow. That’ll teach us – once again – not to believe anything we hear from the media, until positively confirmed by the person they’re babbling about.
Always!
Exactly!
Was wondering about that; being a blood clot in the brain, it must be monitored very closely.
I think Mother Jones need to talk to Randi. She says different. she even had a good explanation
I only caught the tail end of Randi’s show. What was her explanation Cos?
MJ can go screw themselves with their doom and gloom.
From the time I saw David Corn ask scornfully yesterday on Twitter “So what else did Obama get besides 98% tax cuts and UI” I realized that these so-called liberals in the media are mighty pissed that PBO successfully got their taxes to go up. Corn probably thinks that it was his 47% video that got PBO re-elected, but he is seriously mistaken.
They all seem to think it was the 47% video and Bill Clinton that got PBO re-elected, now Joe Biden is getting all the credit while they attack the President. They can’t even give him credit for getting re-elected, much less doing his job.
I did not see the actual tweet, but could this be sarcasm toward the left on Corn’s part?
Didn’t read like sarcasm to me.
Nope, you’re right, not sarcastic. Just a bit blind. From the way it was stated in the comment it sounded like it might be a bit sarky-it’s hard to tell online sometimes.
Just Drum blathering ….
Is Chips bodysurfing in HI? Maybe next to the man in the picture above? Is this how she got such a good shot of him? Are we suspicious and jealous? In a word, yes!
I think this is an “old” photo, but, other than that, yes!
Yes it is an old photo. I use have this photo as my desktop PC background.
Don’t blame you a bit! Ooh la la.
Martin Bashir is back. Wooooooooooohooooooo!
I’m not posting this because I agree with her – I’m posting this so you guys will get at her with some snark….
because in Joan Walsh’s world Hillary would have PERFECT. Never, ever caving to Republicans in any way, a Progressive Giant.
Yeah, right, Joan………..
I know, she’s so full of shit.
The year has changed but this woman is still bitter at someone, somehow, and all the times. These professional lefties need to wake up from their day dreams.
Happy New Year, Everyone. I had computer problems for over 36 hours; it has been resolved a few minutes ago. I can now click and get to a website!
I have never heard PBO say anything about cutting these programs. He always say “reforming” these programs. She is lying.
OK, I had a little toe surgery two hours ago, but I had to fire up the Twitter machine for this. Hope it makes sense. Now back to bed!
Kat, I hope you get well soon from your toe surgery. Your tweet response to Walsh was truthful and civil. I am not sure I would have been that civil in response to her blatant lies about the President’s position on Medicare and Social Security. I am really sick of these born again, holier than thou, liberals/progressives.
hmmm. well, i happily agree with the first statement! but i did not hear pbo say he’s open to ‘cutting’ medicare; i heard him say he plans on a ‘reform’. that doesn’t mean cutting benefits, and i don’t believe that he will cut medicare, social security, or other benefits for the elderly. as to the statement ‘by the rich for the rich’, that’s just inflammatory nonsense. we just had an election where the 47% whooped richie rich myth and his rich buddies.
i’d say the big cliff lessons is, never underestimate the president. all your derisive language and sneering does not change who he is: superb at the long game.
did I miss the 2012 election? Did Dem’s regain the House? Sweet!
Found out she blocked me because I disagreed with her, otherwise I’d help on twitter.
Let’s watch her go on Rev Al’s show, as she is a regular guest, and repeat her tweet. I won’t hold my breath.
Everyone knows that the safety net needs strengthening. It’s been undermined for years, and hasn’t been strengthened to account for the higher number of retirees, poor and unemployed, so that it’s now teetering. Instead of these so-called media/pundits offering some ideas on reforming and/or strengthening entitlements so that the public can get behind supporting the right stuff, they are only focused on bashing the President for being open to discussions. They ignore the fact that the right wing has openly declared their wish to destroy the safety net, and the only “reform” suggestions they’re discussing are the ones that destroy. They all heard Nancy Pelosi say that she’s open to discussing CPI, as long as seniors can be protected from harm – and they’ve seen that the President has not done one thing to harm seniors. But, instead of engaging the public in a thoughtful discussion on possible, effective ways to strengthen the safety net, they repeat gossip and lies. They’re disgusting.
This is soooo off-topic, but I’m counting down to Downton Abbey on Sunday! Since almost all of my favorite shows were cancelled in 2012, at least there’s Downton Abbey. I think the universe is telling me to read more, you know, actual books. Although I read all day every day I need to find more time for soul-feeding fiction these days…….
I’ll bite..and I’m counting down to Scandal, too!
Shameful admission…me too! I am such a Scandal freak.
aloha 57
so what good books have you read lately? i love to read, and appreciate recommendations. here’s some i read recently.
i just finished jeffery toobin’s ‘the oath’. excellent background on the supreme court, with lots of interesting details about roberts, scalia, thomas, and the rw agenda there. i did not like the snarky conclusion, that pbo isn’t doing enough to shift the judiciary to the left, but still a very worthwhile read. another non-fiction i’m just finishing is ‘wine and war’ by d. and p. kladstrup, the story of how the french vintners saved their beloved wines during the nazi occupation.
in fiction, try ‘beautiful ruins’ by jess walter–wonderful story set in italy really takes you away. another terrific novel is ‘between two oceans’ by m.l. stedman, set on a lighthouse island on the coast of australia. also read ‘the orchardist’ by amanda coplin–the story of homesteaders in washington, with rich human drama, beautifully told.
hey, i bet liberal librarian has some recommendations, too. how about a tod book club?
So sad. I just checked my kindle downloads and 90% is for work. My research reading is interesting but still…..
The New New Deal, Michael Grunwald. A must-read for all progressives, Dem’s and well, everybody.
I’m first getting around to reading the Dragon Tattoo books. Pathetic, I know.
Norwegian Wood, by Haruki Murakami. Barely started it, but it’s good writing. I cannot abide bad writing, or just writing for the plot. It’s gotta be good.
I read a lot of a classics. Modern favorite authors: Steinbeck, Larry McMurtry. I love Edith Wharton, Willa Cather. From my theater background, Shakespeare is just my favorite.
I re-read Jane Austen all the time. I re-read Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights every 5 years or so, and cannot believe how much I discover each and every time.
A book club would be soooo cool!
I’m sure there’s a lot more I’m forgetting.
Hi susanne, I recently read “Cutting For Stone” a novel by Abraham Verghese and thought it was amazing. I love to read and have since I was 5….I won’t divulge how many years that’s been
Anyhow, Cutting for Stone is easily one of the best books I’ve ever had the privilege to read and I highly recommend it.
thanks 57 and mela! i have both ‘cutting for stone’ and ‘the new new deal’ on my wait list at the library.
i read for enjoyment, and i do love good writing, but also want to enjoy spending time with the characters in the setting. i re-read willa cather every decade or so, because her storytelling is just wondrous.
the dragon tattoo books were rough going in places (which is when i flip pages) but they do tell a harrowing tale of political and journalistic intrigue. ‘norwegian wood’ was one that i started but never completed. i often drop out of books in translation– i can’t get inside somehow.
my husband just finished ‘the round house’ by louise erdrich, and he loved it, so it’s next on my list.
I also read for enjoyment…life can get messy and a good book provides the ideal escape. I am a fan of well written murder mysteries and loved the depth of the characters in Elizabeth George’s Inspector Lynley series but only up to but not including “Careless in Red”. I think something happened to her writing because “Careless in Red” was awful and it’s been downhill ever since. “The Round House” has been on my list based on reviews, it’s good to know your husband enjoyed it.
me too on eliz george. a friend had recommended her, but i think i’m done after the ‘red’. i love to re-read dorothy sayers, and keep praying that p.d. james will live to write more books. other mystery writers i enjoy: louise penney (french canadian setting), laurie king (takes sherlock holmes into a new era), and donna leon (venice police stories). all very good writers, excellent story tellers.
LOVE Donna Leon and Louise Penney. I have also been reading G.M. Ford mysteries set it Seattle with Leo Waterman P.I. I’ve enjoyed listening to Robert Harris Imperium and Conspiratus, both fictionalized histories of Cicero’s life. Well-researched and wonderfully written. I can’t recommend them too highly.
thanks, mary. i’ll look for them, too. this is great fun, sharing titles and authors with the tod ohana!
You wouldn’t think Cicero would be that interesting but the books were just great! I couldn’t stop listening.
Oh yes. It’s a fantastic book. I don’t read much fiction but Verghese is such a wonderful writer. There’s a touch of magical-realism to it. My favorite magical-realism book is 100 Years of Solitude. I’ve read it twice and will soon be reading it again.
One of the best books I’ve read is “A Suitable Boy” by Vikram Seth. It’s a long book, but really pulls you into the story, and full of cultural depth. I loved it!
hi theo
thanks for the recommendation. i just pulled it up on my library’s website, and i see it’s over 1400 pages!! aiyeee!! so it’s reeeeallly good?
I really enjoyed it – and it wasn’t at all like reading 1400 pages. It was entertaining and very eventful. If you have a free, quiet weekend, you’ll be well entertained.
i’ll give it a go, then. this is when an e-reader would be nice, because a heavy book in my old arthritic hands is a consideration. worth it for a superb read!
Get the paperback – not quite as heavy. I hope you’ll enjoy it!
Thanks for all the book recommendations TOD Peeps! I just finished Team of Rivals, (had to read it after seeing Lincoln) and looking for something else to sink into. Another reason why I love this place; one gets clued into good music and good reads.
Oh and Susanne, your peppermint bark recipe was a big hit. My nephew loved smashing the candy canes. He thought his Auntie was all kinds of cool when I told him the recipe involved him breaking something! I had barely gotten it broken into “bark sized pieces” when the rest of the family swooped in like vultures and devoured it all. I only got a small taste myself; it was like a York Peppermint Patty, only BETTER!
so glad to hear it! i barely got a taste of mine, too, but so glad to have something easy and tasty when there are folks to feed! i might make more, but with nuts and maybe minced candied ginger.
I hope she is ok. Does this means that she left on her own?
It may just mean she is not released from her physician’s care.
What people are ignoring when they think PBO will “cave” on the debt ceiling, is that he has made very clear that he will not allow the USA to default on debts the CONGRESS has already authorized. He did not make as strong a statement last time because there were many other issues at stake. I have a hunch he will make it very clear in both his Inaugural Address and SOTU speech how, constitutionally, we cannot default. In essence, he will be saying to the Republicans that if they fail to raise the debt ceiling cleanly, they are acting unconstitutionally and that, if necessary, he will uphold the Constitution if they won’t.
I don’t think it’s this easy. Aren’t the Repubs screaming ‘constitutional crisis’ over this yet?
Because by all means, Repubs, assume that President Barack Obama hasn’t thought this through, you idiots.
Still, I have no idea how this plays out without the SC and other messy issues. I’m looking forward to seeing PBO’s game plan.
Don’t know if he’ll take that route. Here’s what he had to say about that last time: ” “There’s a provision in our Constitution that speaks to making sure that the United States meets its obligations. And there have been some suggestions that a president could use that language to basically ignore this debt ceiling rule, which is a statutory rule. It’s not a constitutional rule. I have talked to my lawyers. … They are not persuaded that that is a winning argument.”
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/theoval/post/2011/07/obama-says-he-wont-raise-debt-ceiling-on-his-own/1#.UOSoM3dBQUw
Yes, that is what he said in July, 2011.
During that entire interval he never said anything close to what he has now said several times since election – ‘I will not negotiate with anyone on the debt ceiling’ – and members of his staff, including Press Sec Carney have not only reiterated that but enforced it with ‘we ain’t taking calls, answering emails, etc …. the President is not negotiating the debt ceiling.’
As you know, I always take the President at his word. So, unless he has determined an alternate legal position, the one that several knowledgeable folk have indicated is viable is to invoke Section IV of the 14th Amendment. I have no lawyer/legal background, but the words of that Amendment are hardly obscure.
One thing for sure, friend, we don’t have long to learn what he’s going to do
Happy New Year to you and your loved ones.
#TrustBarack
Happy New Year to you too Bobfr! Yep I’ve no doubt that PBO has laid down the gauntlet and he will make them regret they ever doubted his leadership or called him weak. I don’t know if it’ll be from the constitutional angle (daring the SCOTUS to rule in favor of having the country default on its debts), or just by letting the ‘Pubs self-destruct. Either way, he means business. There’s no campaign looming and he doesn’t have to suffer the fools daily. Pass the popcorn.
CNN is showing Bill and Hilary Clinton leaving the hospital. She looks well. Her hair is up in a ponytail and she’s wearing shades. Chelsea Clinton is also with her.
Weird reporting. If one leaves a hospital it is considered “released” unless one leaves wearing only a pale blue and white thin cotton apron, correct?
some teabutt is on Martin saying that Boehner is going to resign at 5pm. Martin says, ‘you fool, get off my TV set!’
I saw that too. Yes, he was a teabutt (:-)), however, he didn’t back down from is prediction. If Boehner resigns, we won’t need tv for entertainment.
Can you imagine Eric Cantor vs. PBO?
Cantor doesn’t really want the job. He knows he can’t herd the cats in his caucus. He just wants to make Bonehead continue to look bad, so he can continue to use the teabutts for their favor and exultation.
I think you are exactly correct.
I think the MSM is creating much unnecessary drama by their constant misreporting, premature speculation, of SOS’s condition.
Notice how they were very, very respectful of Bush Senior and have tried their best to maintain his privacy and present his illness and care in as positive a light as possible.
probably because his time is past. hillary, however, is running for president it seems, and her illness just changed the dynamics of that race. possibly i’m way too cynical, but seems to me christie’s awesome outrage today was to say, see how big and strong he is, while the little lady languishes in the hospital.
There is no evidence whatsoever that Hillary is running or plans to run for President. That has all been a media creation thus far. Just a few weeks ago in a Barbara Walters interview, Hillary emphatically stated that she had no plans to run for President.
This is being pushed from the GOP (enabled by the media for ratings/drama) because they see Hillary (and they are correct in that regard) as someone with many liabilities and baggage. They would never encourage a DEM to run if they truly believed that that individual would eviscerate their strongest Republican candidate.
true the media has been pushing hillary’s name, and i also think the rethugs want her nominated. they’ve been itching to trounce her since she first put on a pants suit.
I think you’re right,, hope. The GOP was totally defeated in 2008 and 2012. They’re trying to pick the Dem candidate to give their pathetic GOP bench a fighting chance – and the far left is falling for it.
RETIREE HEALTH MESSAGE
As I was lying in bed pondering the problems of the world, I rapidly realized that I don’t really give a rat’s hiney. It’s the tortoise life for me!
1.. If walking is good for your health, the postman would be immortal.
2.. A whale swims all day, only eats fish, drinks water, and is fat.
3.. A rabbit runs and hops and only lives 15 years.
4.. A tortoise doesn’t run and does nothing, yet it lives for 450 years.
And you tell me to exercise?? I don’t think so.
I’m retired. Go around me.
And the elephant, the largest animal on land, is vegetarian.
I need this on my refrigerator and a copy in my medical file at the doctor’s office. Love it.
Amen!
As in the wake of U.S. Commodore Matthew Perry’s 1850s voyages to Japan, American companies are seeking greater opportunities, with General Electric Co. (GE) and Ford Motor Co. backing Obama’s plan for an 11-country Pacific trade deal that could bring in $108 billion a year. Instead of Perry’s gunships, what may propel Asian nations toward Obama’s vision is concern from Japan to Vietnam that China’s ascendance may pose a threat.
“The U.S. is serious about its commitment to Asia and sees Asia as the future in terms of economic growth in the 21st century,” said Simon Kahn, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore and Google Inc. (GOOG)’s chief Asia-Pacific marketing officer. “That has a very real impact in discussions with business counterparts in terms of thinking about long-term investments.”
The connection is part personal for Obama, 51, who lived in Jakarta from 1967 to 1971. In his second year in office, the president returned to Indonesia’s capital, addressing an audience of about 6,000 at the University of Indonesia highlighting prospects for deeper economic ties, “because a rising middle class here means new markets for our goods, just as America is a market for yours.”
Less than two years after Obama’s visit, Boeing Co. (BA) confirmed a record 230-plane order valued at $22.4 billion at list prices from PT Lion Mentari Airlines, a budget carrier in Indonesia, the world’s fourth most-populous nation.
http://mobile.bloomberg.com/news/2012-12-28/obama-eyes-108-billion-annual-asia-prize-vying-with-china-trade.html
Listen to Randi….http://www.randirhodes.com/main.html
LOL.
Try a Lava Flow President, they are sinfully delicious.
what’s in it? gotta say, a real lava flow has a stinky, burnt tires smell that doesn’t recommend it as a beverage!
LOL
Boehner spox says he’s not resigning.
and I see from TPM that Al Jazeera is buying Current TV?
Great. The quickest way that they can revamp and gain market here in USA.
It has got to be Al Jazeera English. Right?
I wonder what would happen to Stephanie Miller’s Radio show that is simulcast in AM?
It’ll be called “Al Jazeera America”, with 60% US made content and 40% from AJE. Excellent news, can’t wait.
from what I read, about 60% will be reporting from AJE & the other percent from reg AJ
Can a speaker be from the minority party? Is there any house rule against it ?
The speaker can be ANYONE from what I hear….even Mittens:)
If true, then hand over the gavel to the Lady.
I’m more intrigued with the thought that Randi had regarding the split in the House and the Boner vote tomorrow
151 Repubs are furious at Boner…85 Repubs voted with the Senate to approve the fiscal cliff deal….if all the Dems stuck together to vote to reinstate Pelosi, and some of those 85 Repub did the same…..could we have a Speaker Pelosi ??? Never happened before…but lots of things these last couple years are new to me!
I think I flip flopped those numbers:)
I am not sure it’s true that “The speaker cab be ANYONE….” My understanding is that the House Speaker has to be one of the elected members of the House of Representatives who is chosen/elected by the majority of the House members. It’s true that unlike the Majority Leader does not have to be a member of the majority party. Any member of the House of Rep. can be chosen/elected Speaker if he/she has the support of 218 members. I think it’s magical thinking to expect the majority party, in this case the Republican party, to give up the powerful position of Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Nope. The speaker does not have to be a member of the House. Though a complete outsider is so unlikely as to be inconceivable.
Yes, and even just any old Mary, Ann or Margret……or Tom, Luke or Harry…..The Speaker Never need to be a member of the House.
Nancy Smash could flip 7 Rs and be elected herself. But with enough D votes a more moderate GOP Rep might be able to win.
I’d rather that Nancy Smash flip a few R’s and be the speaker than another gooper. There ain’t no moderate gooper.
After years of trying, Al Jazeera is buying its way into American homes. A huge moment for the Qatar-based news giant. If deal closes (and I think it will today), Current TV will remain on the air for about 3 months. Then Al Jazeera comes on. Bye Bye Cenk Uygur!
Yup. It’s a sorta backdoor entry given the paranoia of the real ‘ murka. They are very good and their panels are excellent without all the shouting and talking over.
Awesome! I hear the RWNJ’S screaming already:) Ignorant souls
This is EXCELLENT news. Now if we could only get Discovery to get BBC World on all the cable / satellite providers.
I will not miss the fire bagger lineup on Current TV. I think it will be good for America to get the Al Jazeera perspective.
You are right Bill about the Current TV firebagger bunch, starting with Bill Press and skipping Stephanie Miller. Press has a designated spot for firebagger Elliott Spitzer and all of those folks from Politico.
I love Stephanie Miller however.
gee, I wonder if Current had not filled the station with the likes of Cenk, Bill Press, Spitzer (No, Elliot, it’s not PBO’s fault your political career is over. It’s YOUR fault). Jennifer Granholm is good. But I admit, the firebaggers keep the station off my radar.
I dream of a sane, progressive media presence. I have a dream…….
I love Stephanie, too. She is one of the few pragmatic progressives in ALL of TV.
Great. Al Jazerra English will be able to spend the money to make the station viable. If I were running it, have a Name change and call it something like…..Fact or Truth in News matters.
Something that is an eye opener and captures the seriousness, accuracy and the greater need to hold folks accountable.
AlJazeera is a brand name. They’re not going through all that manoeuvrings to let that name go.
Al Jazeera’s going to position this as an AMERICAN news channel. 60% out of New York, 40% out of Qatar
wow…… No more Stephanie Miller on the tee vee?
http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/01/02/al-jazeera-said-to-be-acquiring-current-tv/?smid=tw-share
AAmom @AVD911
OBAMA’S FAULT! @CNNMoney U.S. stocks soar after lawmakers reach a fiscal cliff deal. Dow adds 308 points. Nasdaq rises 3.1%, S&P gains 2.5%.
Retweeted by Jeff Gauvin
View conversation Reply Retweet Favorite
I see Rupert Murdoch is trying to buy the Chgo Trib and the LA Times. Horrors!
Thank you, Bill Clinton for the Telecom bill. Gee, I don’t remember Joan Walsh getting her panties in a bunch when Bill Clinton was selling out progressives left and right.
PBO has spent considerable time and political capital cleaning up much of bill’s fuck-ups.
He has indeed. I am forever grateful for Bill Clinton’s excellent help getting PBO reelected, but when you look at some of his major fuck-ups, it’s amazing he has the reputation he has with progressives. The Telecom Bill led to the right wing takeover of the media and his embrace of the Gramm bill is what led to the economic collapse.
I’m still ticked over the the Telecom swindle.
Exactly!
I don’t remember her saying anything about DOMA or NAFTA either.
You are so right.
MSNBC and their pundits are unhinged. In fact the entire left media is having conniptions right now. From what I saw on Twitter, MSNBC Hardball is going as far as to say that George Bush won the Fiscal Cliff Deal – that’s how MAD they are that PBO managed to get 90% of what he wanted leaving the rest of the GOP to pick up the 10% crumbs mixed with dust and roach eggs.
I think some people are raving mad that their great Bush tax cuts are going up. The left media will never admit it, but they LOVED when George Bush was president. They BENEFITED from his otherwise disastrous policies while making money by pretending to criticize him from the left. Now there is an adult in charge and they are frenzied…frightened…struggling to remain relevant.
Yup, the pl mob profited from poutrage porn.
Jim Moran throwing shade at PBO on Hardball.
When elected Dems are going after POTUS, it is time for me to notify OFA or whatever they are called, that I do not want my name or any contact info given to the DNC.
I unsubscribed from the DNC/DCCC mailing list…
I had enough of Chelsea Clinton who’s never lifted a finger in support of anything or anyone besides her mother, sending me e-mails to thank her father for something or the other…
The list is for supporting Democratic candidates and legislators not for stroking Bill Clinton’s ego…
I finally turned because I could not believe the angle that the show was taking. Not just Moran but substitute host Smerconish and Fineman. It’s really pathetic that they’re allowed to construct the narrative by which the president’s actions are judged.
Jim Moran has never really supported President Obama…
His son was caught up in some unsavory James O’Keefe undercover stuff during the last elections and more recently for assaulting his girlfriend…
These slimy, terribly dysfunctional men like Jim Moran, with massive chips on their shoulders have such a need to drag President Obama down to their level…
I just got a request for money today from the DNC with some rinky dick Membership card enclosed.
I am going to return it with a note saying I will only donate directly to candidates of my choice until Democrats Stop going on TV and trash talking about the President.
They also hound me with phone calls asking for money.
Great idea, Linda, they test my loyalty! I will do the same, perhaps they will start listening!
I will be doing the same with this donate pledge card I received. If they don’t have PBO’s back, they can find their monies elsewhere.
I totally endorse your idea and will do likewise! Enough is enough!
I actually did that during the elections…
Gave several lectures to poor volunteers who called on behalf of the DNC…
Funny thing though, many of them agreed with me about refusing to support a general fund that may potentially benefit Dems that disrespect President Obama – like Joe Manchin etc…
Commuter benefit in new ‘fiscal clift’ law
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/chi-fiscal-cliff-law-includes-commuter-benefit-20130102,0,5668924.story
this just makes me laugh– two headlines on msnbc website:
‘fiscal cliff deal a debacle for gop’
and also
‘stocks skyrocket after deal’
That’s the whole truth!
Why is that? It happens for just like today……hardly any of Pres Obama’s supporters were on TV/Cable today. Why couldn’t VP Biden or some surrogates out today clarifying what was in the bill yesterday? When there is a vacuum, people would fill it up. That is the problem. Mourning Joke trashed the deal for 3 hrs. Not One Real surrogate was there to counter all the TBGOPers on that show today. That is a problem that I have written them and called them about at least 30 times earlier.
This needs to be done especially when the POTUS is away. Surrogates should be out in force.
They can’t get on if they don’t get booked.
The problem is not with Obama surrogates or VP Biden. People who don’t know are in that position because they don’t want to know. How come you and I know? Did PBO call us into the oval office personally and give us wine and cheese over a lecture on the bill?
PBO already gave a statement on Friday about exactly what was in the senate bill. The WH.gov blog has all the information that people need. Folks like UT and Bobfr have been tweeting their hearts out, trying to correct misinformation – based on stuff they got from the White house website and other easily accessible sites.
When you have folks listening to hacks like Ezra Klein and Krugman and granting them more trust and credibility than a constitutional scholar who also happens to be an experienced and consummate politician, we have a much bigger problem than Obama surrogates not being on cable TV.
And I forgot to add: When PBO made it his business to go on MTP on Sunday, who did NBC trot out to “trash” him afterwards under the guise of a “panel”…that’s right. That washed-up, has been Brokaw who rarely has anything good to say about President Obama, and that hack Chuck Todd. Meanwhile, VP Biden was holed up in the senate with McConnell trying to get that bill completed. The true Obama surrogates cannot afford to be preening and posing on cable doing the journalists’ jobs for them TV 24/7 because they’re too busy doing their own jobs – which is actually getting stuff done!
Zizi totally nailed it, Hopefruit! Thanks for sharing her tweet.
Naturally, Boner took the WRONG lesson away from all this….seriously, is there anyone more stupid than this man?
http://politicalwire.com/archives/2013/01/02/boehner_says_hell_no_longer_negotiate_with_obama.html
This one comes to mind.
http://tinyurl.com/b3gosb6
and all his bagger friends…
Bingo!.
His drinking problem may be worse than is known. Gov. Christie said he called Boner 4 times last night after 11:00 and Boner never returned the calls. He may have been drunk. His actions are very erratic.
This is why he drinks and cries alot.
Nice little recap of how screwed they really are.
http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022117532
The crying you hear is the Republican Party who has just come to the realization that they have had their asses handed to them on a plate.
This is the new Republican World:
They are at an all-time low in unpopularity. Root canals and Republicans are loved equally in the United States.
They are in the middle of a civil war. Neither side can win without the support of the other. Their united front that has stayed firm from the Reagan area until now just fell apart.
The Republican hate for Obama has blinded them. They have reached this pinnacle of power through carefully hiding their agenda behind propaganda and Fox News. President Obama lured them out into the open with his carefully crafted chess game where he played the weak bird with the broken wing. Flap, flap, “look at me! I’m practically a lame duck!” Obama lured them out into the open and in their haste to not get trapped, he managed to trip them up and split their party.
King is calling for people to no longer donate to the Republicans. Cantor is working on a coup. The right is ready to eat anyone who broke from the party line. The Speaker of the House has been turned into a laughing stock. He’s at the point where, in the White House he told Reid to “Go Fuck Himself.” This is not a healthy party.
More>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
I like the little bird analogy. It’s very true – President Obama plays the underdog, and manages to hide his strength very well. He’s got a lot of power, and he uses it very sparingly, but with deadly precision. It’s a wonder to behold.
I give you this:
and this:
That is a Good analysis from DonRedwood on DU, desertflower.. I posted on there this morning.
If Speaker Boehner is not re-elected as speaker/who would take his place
Is Cantor next in line
can someone tell me what Steve Kornacki said on the cycle this afternoon that has some of my twitter feed abuzz. just a paraphrase would be nice I rather not have to listen to video
The far left is nervous about the debt limit so they are all lashing out at the President.
This PUNK was a sick fuck talking about how Obama is scared of Republicans and other BULLSHIT. See my tweet below with the link to that punk’s video.
Kornacki is an idiot. I have never liked him.
He was so mad and actually was startled when Alex Wagner voted President Obama her person of the year on the Last Word New Year’s eve show…
Alex Wagner sad that President Obama was kind, honest, etc. and Steve Kornacki was visibly shaken and upset over that…
This is confusing—-don’t know if Hillary was just leaving to have a MRI and returning to the hospital, or will go home after MRI. And why does she have to leave a hospital to have a MRI?
http://www.buzzfeed.com/jtes/hillary-clinton-leaves-the-hospital
Discharged for real—-memo from State Dept.
Oh and they will not tell you, but this might effect her status to run for Presudent in 2016. All this attention, is meant to hurt her standing in the eyes of the public.
They could care less about Hillary or her health!
dotster3 – I had a long five-week hospital stay three years ago with a gazillion brain MRIs done, all in-house, but for a PET Scan, I did have to leave the hospital by transport to a nearby lab, because the scanning equipment arrived in a huge trailer parked behind a building and only was at that site on certain dates. It was a big regional medical center, and I have no real idea why it wasn’t done in-house, other than the size of the contraption and the cost of having it there, not sure. I was just glad to get out in the sunshine for a bit, to and from the hospital!
If you ever notice, it’s when the left wing fundraisers, Rebuild our Nightmare, Moveon, Democracy For inaction, ask for money they hit the President from a socialist POV.
This just in: America is not a socialist country.
But, when these fundraisers start freaking out on the President, the rest of the far left Media pile on, it’s all the Dane group if fuckers that pretend to be his base.
Whatever!
I get email solicitations from them and I always reply that I will never contribute to them until they are behind PBO 100% No idea if my answers are read, although I have had one or two responses and they weren’t very polite.
I unsubscribed to all of their emails long time ago.
I considered that and I have unsubscribed to many. But I get a weird satisfaction out of answering back every time.
I did the same, COS! I refuse to be manipulated by privileged people who spend most of their time attacking a decent President who is trying to solve complex problems in a deeply divided country.
If you ever notice, it’s when the left wing fundraisers, Rebuild our Nightmare, Moveon, Democracy For inaction, ask for money they hit the President from a socialist POV.
This just in: America is not a socialist country.
But, when these fundraisers start freaking out on the President, the rest of the far left Media pile on, it’s all the Same group of fuckers that pretend to be his base.
Whatever!
Just got some cockeyed Christianist poll call—–all nervous about gay marriage becoming legal in Illinois—–”Are you registered to vote?” “Yes” “Do you agree only marriage between ONE man and ONE woman should be legal in Illinois? “No.” Click.
freak flags are flyin’ !!
But did no one consider Cenk’s needs?!?
I think Jen Granholm will get a cabinet post replace Hilda Solece at Labor or Ron Kirk as trade rep, the rest of current can go where the sun dont shine.
I like Stephanie Miller, though. But, she can go back to her radio only program. The fact is, Al Gore is after money, just like the rest of them. Instead of leading the charge to have true liberal television to counter MSNBC and FOX and CNN, he’s sold out. I can’t say I blame him, but he shouldn’t get on a high horse and criticize President Obama, who has always taken the road less travelled.
I don’t think in this instance Gore had a choice. His vision may have been true liberal television but the reality is Current TV ratings were abysmal which means revenue was about the same. 7 years after launching people were still not watching. Time to pull the plug.
Because cable, Directv and Dish put it on a higher more costly tier unlike fox. My cable JUST gave me OWN and it was on a higher tier but now it’s on a lower tier. I was hoping that Randi Rhodes would go to Current to replace Cenk.
She said that Al Gore wouldn’t hire her because she doesn’t bash President Obama…
‘…His vision may have been true liberal television…’
Could have fooled me…
Darn that Obama (shakes fist skyward)! Getting Uygur fired from another job he was no good at.
Oh my…I see that Snark Knoller’s cousin is now on Twitter. Ladies and Gents, meet Snark’s first cousin – Scott Clown!
Perfect!
what does this even mean?
second.
It’s a satire account, making fun of Scott Brown.
LOL! Your guess is as good as mine.
Not a clue.
It’s time to invest in popcorn and booze. we’ll be eating the popcorn and the ‘pubs will be drowning in their beer. I haven’t seen such political silliness since folks thought $arah Pay’em was legit
Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) is signaling that at least one thing will change about his leadership during the 113th Congress: he’s telling Republicans he is done with private, one-on-one negotiations with President Obama.
During both 2011 and 2012, the Speaker spent weeks shuttling between the Capitol and the White House for meetings with the president in the hopes of striking a grand bargain on the deficit.
Those efforts ended in failure, leaving Boehner feeling burned by Obama and, at times, isolated within his conference.
In closed-door meetings since leaving the “fiscal cliff” talks two weeks ago, lawmakers and aides say the Speaker has indicated he is abandoning that approach for good and will return fully to the normal legislative process in 2013 — seeking to pass bills through the House that can then be adopted, amended or reconciled by the Senate.
“He is recommitting himself and the House to what we’ve done, which is working through regular order and letting the House work its will,” an aide to the Speaker told The Hill.
http://thehill.com/homenews/house/275295-boehner-tells-gop-hes-done-with-one-on-one-obama-talks
Oh goodie, he is done working with the President. Done I tells ya.
Ummm…he will have to work with President Obama. He can stop the crying and sobbing and boo hooing and man up and help my President continue to move this country forward .OR he ca resign and sit his happy self down.
They haven’t passed any bills (except naming post offices) using the “regular order and letting the House work its will” – they can’t even pass their own bills! Good luck to Speaker Boehner. He can’t get anything into law without President Obama, and President Obama can do a lot of stuff without Boehner. Only one side loses in that position that Boehner is planning on taking.
Wasn’t it Boehner who ask for the one on one negotiations with the President?
Working with the president is part of the job of the Speaker of the House. So Boehner is saying, give me the title, but don’t expect me to actually do the job.
Yup.
This^^ – hope you don’t mind that I just stole your comment to tweet it.
Hello Everyone
Thank you for all the good news this day – your politics – compared to anywhere else in the world – is, as a minimum “interesting”. Headline from my state newspaper this am “State considering dumping compulsory voting”
Have they been learning from the US GOP State governors – cornerstone of our democracy is compulsory voting! Get rid of it they say!
Meanwhile, I watched Gov Christie’s press conference – and despite he is “political” in all he does and says – I didn’t think it was aimed at 2016. Yet again, he spoke well of the President – and it seems to me the primaries would be vicious to him in this regard – no true republican agrees on anything the President says or does.
Very pleased to see Sullivan going it alone – the “maths” (well he is a republican) just doesn’t add up – so it shouldn’t last too long. I haven’t visited his site since his meltdown after the debate – checked in this am to note he is regurgitation loving emails from those who would subscribe – his blog is very much about self and self interest – his reasoning is poor – and he has more holidays than George W Bush.
The house politics certainly looks as if Boehner was promised the speakership by someone in return for passing the financial bill. I really can’t imagine that Nancy Pelosi would want to be the leader of such a pig headed group of haters – much better to see the GOP implode under Boehner – and then 2014 would allow her to be speaker for the first two & last two years of President Obama’s administration. There seems to be little hope of any sane governing by the house before 2014.
The media seems defined by the clip Linda provided of Luke Russert and his BFF Failed VP candidate Ryan – for very different reasons – and I never thought I’d ever say it – I agree with Sarah Palin – the media is a big fail.
Markets have been open an hour – already up 0.5%
I threw my remote at the tv last nite after the house vote when he was calling in to msnbc, dont know if I want to watch this clip!
Sadly, he was not just an invited guest—-he’s a co-host—on daily on The Cycle.
uggghhhh. You know can they get someone who wasn’t in diapers during the Clinton Administration? That girl who was hosting it has a ANNOYING voice. And then they have that Tourre turd and then this fuckwad Karnacki. It’s worse than listening to teenage girls discussing their nail polish.
I never watch TV anymore but hadn’t realized it was this awful. I would pay lots for a straight news channel. Maybe Al Jazeera won’t get corrupted and stick to their current program style.
AJ isn’t CNN. I have every confidence they won’t descend to the muck of US journalism.
Good evening TODville & Chips.
I liken that girl’s voice to a death rattle. I wonder why did FAUX NEWS DROP her? The only person who makes sense on that CYCLE is Crystal Ball.
The comments on here tonight are so spot on. The firebaggers get paid to lie and skew information. I hope Stephanie Miller can get a contract with Al Jazzera.
Hey all, just published my new piece on TPV: http://www.thepeoplesview.net/2013/01/on-forests-and-trees.html
Take a look if you can.
Fantastic LL! For sure there isn’t enough analysis of how POTUS is remaking the Dem Party so I’m glad you addressed that. It’s always focused on what he is doing to the opposition. Really liked it and retweeted.
I think he is beginning to accomplish his real goals: awakening the voice of the people in our democracy. Getting us to pay attention and do our homework. Giving us back the gift of civic participation.
that’s great LL! thanks!
I went to see Les Miserables.
I preface this by saying that I am on my third CD of Les Miserables. I worn out the other two. Les Miz and Phantom are my two favorite musicals. I have seen it about a dozen times on stage. I belong to the Les Miz cult.
Now that we have that out of the way…
I LOVED IT!!!
LOVED IT!!
The casting was PERFECT.
Though Hugh Jackman is a singer and a Broadway performer, and Russell Crowe is not… it doesn’t matter. Both men on the screen SCREAM their characters. They went into the souls of Jean ValJean and Javert and brought them on the screen.
There isn’t a spoken word in the entire movie – it’s all sung….and it was rocking.
The visuals of the movie are grand and sweeping.
The music, of course, was wonderful.
But, it was the casting of the rest of the movie that hit the spot. Anne Hathaway gave it her all for Fantine and made me tear up.
Earlier this week I saw a youtbe video of an elderly couple that had cried afterwards while giving a review- I went with plenty of tissues, and I needed them.
My tears really started coming when Eponine died…I can’t say enough about the young people that they cast – they were living their characters. By the end of the movie, I was blubbering. Crowe was marvelous, and by Javert’s end, he had me sympathetic towards him.
Jackman as Prisoner 24601 – simply divine.
Divine.
To the Les Miz cultists like myself, they threw us a bone by having the priest that saved Val Jean portrayed by the man most consider to be the best Jean Val Jean ever on stage.
There literally is nothing that I would change about the movie.
Even if you’ve never heard Les Miz before, I can’t see how anyone would be disappointed in the movie. It is a beautiful, stand alone movie.
oooh thx for the review I gotta go see this movie! I saw it on stage a long time ago at the Auditorium in Chicago it was so great!
Excellent review, Rikyrah – I’m oping to see it this coming weekend, and I’m even more excited to see it now! Thx!
http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2013/01/02/1382471/thanks-to-gerrymandering-democrats-would-need-to-win-the-popular-vote-by-over-7-percent-to-take-back-the-house/
here’s the last line: ‘ Partisan gerrymanders, like the one that now all but locks the GOP majority in place, have been the subject of repeated court challenges. America can thank the five conservative justices on the Supreme Court for allowing these gerrymanders to continue. ‘
so true, and i’m betting pbo has a nice list of names to replace them when the time comes. meanwhile, local and regional judges are the fist stop in these challenges, and they are more within our power to replace. we need to all find out how and by whom they’re selected (differs by state) and make sure the rethugs don’t pack the courts with their appointees.
This is true. But you know what? We won in 2006 by 8% of the vote, with an equally gerrymandered landscape. I have a feeling it will happen again in 2014.
What the FREAKING HELL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2013/01/02/1384531/armed-teacher-training-program/
Tee hee.
I’m thinking a few folks should be singing this:
Ooohhhh Yard! Mr. E!!! Be still my heart!!!!
Calm down you old coot.
Swoon!
My grandma loved her some Billy Eckstine. As well as Johnny Hartman. One of the two was always playing on the stereo whenever we went to visit…brings back good memories. And no I don’t want any refugs or whiny howler monkeys on the left messin with this song or the one below. They can just have a seat….permanently. Keep comin’ up with the gems from the basement Yardarm! 
Damn shoes I had forgotten about Johnny. He use to drop in a neighborhood joint called the Other Place that was owned by Lurlean Hunter. Deep, deep. His niece owns a local Chi-town weekly called In`Digo, Hermene Hartman. Johnny was on his form in the late ’60′s. Thanks for the jog. I ain’t gonna ever get out of the bsmt, huh?
Yardarm, please stay in the “bsmt.” Besides, you’ve inspired many others to visit their basements or wherever they’ve stored all these precious collections.
Damn nath it gets cold down here ’til I find a hot disc.
What do you guys think of this? Any credibility to the rumor?
http://www.examiner.com/article/senior-sources-cited-that-house-speaker-john-boehner-may-resign-tonight
Won’t happen.
Good for him!
http://livestre.am/4hxJh via @livestream
Why is the so called progressive left swooning over this punk?
http://thepoliticalcarnival.net/2013/01/02/think-for-yourself-ask-questions-do-your-homework/ Here, amk
that was a good post DF. Poor GottaLaf, I had no idea she was having that kind of trouble. You just never expect online interactions to go bad. I wonder who it was so I can be sure to stay the heck away from that person. It will certainly make me more careful
I watched the press conference in it’s entirety on cspan and he did call out his party quite often. 5-10 times during the Q &A. He didn’t say GOP but referred to it as “the party of the majority”. I think he did that because he didn’t include the Senate or the GOP as a whole.
In the Q&A, he said both sides do this type of thing too often but this time it was “his” party. I’m not sure if cspan has the whole tape of it but he called out Boehner and the “party of the majority” several times.
In addition he regularly referenced the bipartisanship with Dems in both NY and NJ working with the GOP congresspersons in those states. I can see why he would be a tough candidate – he answers the questions asked and doesn’t beat around the bush.
‘party of the majority’ – such weaselly words. Was he this bashful when he was namecalling obama just a week before the sandy stuck?
Fuck him and his ‘bluntness’.
In reality, Chris Christie for all his bluster is a first class weasel…
Found the video that includes the Q&A. Worth watching to form own opinion. I think he was very, very critical of the House GOP. I’m not knowledgeable enough to figure out if it was all political theater – I don’t think it was. I would never vote for him but I can see how some Independents would be impressed with his performance.
http://www.c-span.org/Events/NJ-Gov-Christie-on-Sandy-Aid-The-Wait-Continues/10737436959-1/
he named bonehead specifically more than once. but yes, without doubt, the swooning is revolting.
“Why is the so called progressive left swooning over this punk?”
Amk, many of the so called progressives, in my humble opinion, are frauds! Quite a few of them are born again progressives who used to be right wing Republicans. Case in point: Arianna Huffington.
Cenk Ugyur…
Kos…
Pete hearts Bo!!
Is he the cutest dog ever?
Yes!!
Yes, Yes, Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I get the feeling that Pete loves his job
Love that dog! What a great shot. He’s so photogenic; just like his humans! My sister, knowing how much I love this dog, got me my very own BO for Christmas. ‘Course he’s a stuffed animal and my sister and I are waaay past the “stuffed animals on the bed” stage, but hey, he looks just the real BO!
Um..this article is from the same Ezra Klein, who just ~24 hrs ago (and for the better part of the last 2-3 weeks) was spewing garbage about PBO “caving” and PBO raising medicare age, and PBO cutting SS.
I just cannot take this guy seriously. He’s trying to be relevant; trying to seem smarter that PBO on serious legislative matters, and treats it as a damn game. Klein is neither a constitutional scholar nor an experienced politician. Why should his opinions mean anything to us?
Totally agree hopefruit. What a condescending tweet. I’m going to start calling them punks instead of pundits. If anyone of his “followers” were confused on the fiscal cliff deal it was thanks to him and his concern trolling for the past week. I now have figured out how to get accurate news from various blogs and tweeters I follow and have little to no use for Ezra Klein and his fellow political punks.
Oh please. Everyone says different things on different days. Im’ not going to dismiss what he’s saying just because he doesn’t agree with everything PBO does.
“Im’ not going to dismiss what he’s saying just because he doesn’t agree with everything PBO does.”
That is NOT what my issue with Klein is and you know it. So put away the “cheerleader” argument typically used by Firebaggers, because that’s exactly where you’re headed with this comment.
“Everyone says different things on different days”
That is not true. If PBO kept changing his tongue every 2-3 weeks we would call him a flip-flopper as we did with Mitt Romney.
Just last night Klein was chicken-littling about the deal right after it passed in the house. What about the bill has changed substantively between last night at 11:30 and today? Not a damn thing.
This is the same guy who got “liberals” including our BWD so riled up over the last several weeks, putting out article after article, tweet after tweet about how PBO was going to raise Medicare age, cut SS, etc., and now he gets to patronizingly tell them when to calm down?
He’s another hack who cares about nothing but advancing his professional career and lining his pockets. I don’t need Klein to “explain” to me what a fantastic bill this is after he ranted on and on about what a terrible deal it was. I knew long ago that PBO was going to get the best deal under prevailing circumstances, and I have not wavered from that position. My ideas about PBO’s actions and policies don’t shift according to media personality/pundits’ moods and needs for revenue.
100% agree with you, Hope. Klein is a little pipsqueak whose head is a little big for what he actually knows and absolutely too big for what he’s actually done.
*CLAP….CLAP…..CLAP* Brilliant hopefruit. Brilliant. I want you in my foxhole.
BRAVO,Bravo, Hopefruit! We on this blog must stop defending these people who inflame people against the President based on rumors and then turn around and pretend that they are supportive of the President when their bs turns out false. I know there are people on this site who seem uncomfortable with your fearless truth telling, but I really appreciate your fearlessness in exposing frauds masquerading as intelligent pundits. Keep on Keeping on, speaking the TRUTH! Personally, I am sick and tired of two types of liberals/progressives: the fair weather liberals/progressives, like Ezra Klein; and the holier than thou purity progressives like firebaggers.
Go hf. Preach it.
I know you didn’t just call me a Firebagger.
Yes she did because that’s exactly what you sound like…
And please spare us the ‘I’ve been on this blog, donated and canvassed for President Obama’ stuff because we’ve heard enough of that crap here from people trying to seek cover for their ridiculous support for idiots like Ezra Klein who keep disrespecting President Obama simply because there’ll always be suckers who keep validating and encouraging Ezra’s tired, disrespectful, lame, dishonest, self-serving butt …
Sigh, ok…
And I know you didn’t imply that I dismiss Klein because he doesn’t agree with with everything PBO does.
Are you kidding me…
Hey Chips! All this body surfing can’t be good for my skin, and I don’t have anything to chat about. Get back here with a new thread…..I ask humbly.
LOL!!
Hi Africa. My skin’s feeling all dried out from being out in the surf for such a long and hot day! Have you seen Chips anywhere?
Yes, please. This long thread is starting to make my computer go wacky.
LOD is on it tonight about the fiscal cliff. If you missed the opening, check the rerun.
Watching LOD now…hoping that Chipster comes back soon…getting to be hard to maneuver here!!
Chhiiiiiips where are ya. The bucket is filled to overflowing.
Yup PBO is bodysurfing on 400+ comments!
That’s the biggest I’ve seen so far. I hope she’s okay.
I think she’s okay but just busy catching up with stuff after the holidays. Yesterday’s Rise & Shine thread was almost at 500 comments!
Whew! I hope so.
Captain, we canna hold the ship together! We need a new thread!
LOL!
The diluthium crystals are depleted and we have a coolant leak in the matter/anti-matter chamber!!
That’s the first thing some people need to understand. No 47% video or Bill Clinton will make any difference if the candidate is poor.
I so agree hopefruit2, I saw Chris Matthews talking yesterday and he talk like the reason POTUS won re-election was all do to Bill Clinton. That really piss me off.
Some one should challenge Chris Matthews to run for President and then invite Bill Clinton to campaign for him. If Matthews wins then I would be ready to accept his assertion that Clinton was responsible for President Obama’s re-election. It’s really a sad day in the U.S. media when people, like Chris Matthews, are given a megaphone to spew nonsense while being regarded as serious political analysts. By the way, the same Chris Matthews wanted President Clinton impeached and removed from office over the Lewinsky affair. Pundits like Chris Matthews, Ezra Klein, Ed Shultz and even sometimes Rachel Maddow are, in my humble opinion, two-faced!
So true nath! Someone should tweet that! Seriously.
This is so true, and a lesson that some are refusing to learn. The fact is, when their favourite candidate struggles in 2016, they’ll find a way to blame it on President Obama’s “lackluster” support – ignoring the fact that there will only ever be one Barack Obama, and most of them are missing out on his presidency.
I have jokingly said that the 2016 and 2020 elections will be all about President Obama – who he decides to endorse, why he didn’t support so-and-so (betrayal), what his role in the campaign will be, his 2016 DNC speech, what FLOTUS wears at the 2017 inauguration, How grown the girls are, Malia voting for the first time, Sasha having to go to new HS, Bo approaching middle age in dog years, etc…
Sadly, you’re right. If he throws his weight behind one candidate (e.g. his loyal VP), then the pro-Clinton crowd will explode – even if she doesn’t have a chance at beating the GOP, and especially if she decides not to run (as she’s been saying and insisting). The professional left needs to be ignored.
I don’t believe Hillary will run – she has said it a number of times – the GOP want her to run because they think the voters will want a white male for the next President. They would revive every bad thing that was said about the Clintons in the 1990s if Hillary was a candidate. The President can wash their vile comments away – more difficult for others to duplicate how he does this.
I totally agree.
Now, hopefruit, you and I both know that the dem asshats will be crawling all over each other like snakes trying to get PBO to campaign on their behalf. All of the things they’re doing/saying against him now will be conveniently forgotten. These folks are experts at rewriting history.
But we won’t forget…
That’s the beauty of it…
I don’t know of any candidate who can draw a crowd like PBO. Even when Hillary was running, she did not draw large crowds like PBO. I am also sick of Tweety saying the same old crap. He always compare PBO with JFK. Doesn’t he know that we are in a different century? Things have changed. Also PBO has his own way of governing.
I haven’t watched tweety in nearly two years. He’s completely irrelevant.
You know what COS, some of us oldies know that JFK, unlike BHO, barely won the Presidency. There was also no guarantee that he was going to be re-elected amidst the Civil Rights turmoil and the slowly escalating war in Vietnam, which, I might add, he had a hand in starting. Don’t get me wrong. I loved JFK. I think he was a great President. He certainly was intelligent, thoughtful and had Charisma. What I hate is all this mythologizing about JFK, by hacks, like Matthews, pretending to be historians, as an excuse or cover to trash President Obama.
JFK didn’t accomplish as much as BHO did in the first three years of his presidency. Yes his resolve and diplomatic skills in diffusing the Cuban Missile Crisis was impressive. But he really hadn’t done much on the domestic front. It took the massive and sustained Civil Rights protests to finally convince him, in his third year in office, to submit the Civil Rights Act to Congress. I strongly believe that had President Kennedy not been assassinated it would have been difficult to pass the 1964 Civil Rights Bill. People who pay no attention to history forget to point out that it took almost a year, and two presidents, to pass the 1964 Civil Rights Act. For some of us who are old enough and care to jog our memories, we still remember that the memory of a slain President played a big role in convincing Congress to pass the Bill. That’s not to minimize the political skills exerted by LBJ. But to this day, I still don’t believe that it’s accurate to simply focus on LBJ’s political skills while ignoring the political climate in the aftermath of a slain President.
Every candidate is different and brings a different coalition of voters to the polls. Rarely do you see the same coalition hold up through different presidents, even of the same party, in modern politics.
What got Bush reelected in ’04 wasn’t there for McCain in ’08 – namely the larger evangelical vote and a respectable portion of the Hispanic vote. Gore couldn’t win with the coalition that Clinton won with in the 90s, specifically the southern vote, which abandoned him for Bush in 2000. Even H.W. Bush had difficultly in ’88 keeping together the Reagan factions and they all fell apart in ’92.
So, this is why people shouldn’t get too cocky about the Democratic position and the demographics favoring their campaigns. While they certainly are benefited by the white male population becoming less and less influential overall, there are still groups they need to win in order to successfully keep the White House – and it’s not a guarantee without Obama at the top of the ticket.
1) Blacks have turned out in record numbers these past two elections. While they’ll continue to support Democrats, no matter who is the nominee in ’16, it’s not clear if less political blacks will turn out – which is something that has been an issue for Democrats in the past. Blacks made up 13% of the turnout in ’12 and ’08 – yet only 11% in ’04. That 2% might not seem like much, but in a close election, it could be the difference … especially in swing states like Ohio, Florida and Virginia.
In Ohio, the black turnout was 10% of the overall population in ’04 – Kerry won 84%. In 2012, they made up 15% of the overall voting population in Ohio and Obama won ‘em with 96%. So, not only did blacks turn out by 5% more than in ’04 there, they voted 12% more for Obama than Kerry. That’s the election right there. Had the same numbers we saw in 2004 repeated themselves in ’12, Obama would’ve lost the state. Similarly, if black turnout was at 15% there in ’04 and Kerry managed to win 96% of that vote, he would’ve Ohio and therefore the presidency.
So, automatically, you’re looking at the potential of black voters taping off a bit in the next election without Obama on the ticket. By how much? Who knows. But just a little could be enough to throw the election to the Republicans.
2) Youth vote. We saw youth turnout at a higher rate than in ’08. Obama didn’t do as well as he did in ’08, but that higher turnout, and the fact he won ‘em overwhelmingly, helped erase that difference and it was another big reason he won. As much as we like Elizabeth Warren on the left, is she really going to inspire the youth vote to turn out in 2016? What about O’Malley, who I like? Probably not. Even Hillary might have a difficulty because let’s be honest, youth voters don’t necessarily go for the wonky and more the interesting. Obama was cool and he had the ability to reach them in a way that no presidential candidate since Clinton could. That was huge. In a lot of the ways, he spoke their language instead of speaking Washingtonian, which often goes over the heads of many 20-somethings.
3) Hispanics. This is a key group. This is the future of the party. The Democrats need Hispanics to succeed … the Republicans know it and the next candidate is going to have to tap into this group very similar to how Obama has. Now, if Rubio wins the nomination, or it’s Jeb Bush, the rate of the Hispanic vote is probably going to go down for the Democrats. Even if it was Obama on the ticket. I think they’d still it by a very sizable margin … but not with 70-plus percent of the vote, which is just astounding. Still, does a candidate like Warren have what it takes to be embraced by the Hispanic voters? What about Brian Schweitzer or Andrew Cuomo? It’s possible – but it remains to be seen.
Those three factions are what got Obama reelected. I don’t know if any other candidate can bring ‘em back together in a turnout rate necessary to win in ’16. The good news for Democrats is that two of these groups, blacks and Hispanics, will grow their ranks between now and the 2016 election. They will become a bigger part of our population percentage and the white vote will become smaller – as it has done most of the last five or so elections. That’s key because it does narrow the path the Republicans have. Still, it’ll take a Democrat stepping in and winning these factions a large margin – but also by getting ‘em out to the polls in record numbers. That remains to be seen.
On the flip side, so that we’re not focused on no path to victory, and maybe a lot here will not like hearing what I’m about to say, but each candidate also brings the potential for their own factions. Hillary Clinton could do much better than Obama not only with the female vote (Obama won it by 11), but also working class whites – who have, because of race issues, been reluctant to support Obama. That right there would almost certainly diminish the gains Republicans could make by a lower turnout among youth & blacks and smaller overall percentage from Hispanic voters.
But that’s Hillary Clinton. The rest of the candidates, from Warren to Cuomo to O’Malley to even Cory Booker, they don’t have coalition of their own yet. If Brian Schweitzer runs for president and is the nominee – what’s his coalition? It’s not like Bill Clinton the 90s who brought the southern vote back into play for the Democrats. Schweitzer isn’t going to make Idaho, Wyoming or Utah anymore Democratic and Montana only has three electoral votes. How will he play in Ohio and Virginia and North Carolina and Florida?
Likewise, Cuomo, from New York, might bring together a coalition of white voters because of his Italian heritage and his family name, but the region he comes from is already Democratic and how is his affiliation with the NE going to play out west and in the south? That’s a legitimate question because he doesn’t necessarily have the ability to stretch regions.
This is why guys like Clinton and Obama win – because they are capable of bringing together different groups to succeed. Clinton won by taking a traditionally Republican region and flipping it Democratic – winning in states like Arkansas, Louisiana, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri and Tennessee. Obama was able to put states like Virginia, Indiana and North Carolina into play in ’08 because of his coalition.
I don’t see any of that from Schweitzer, Warren, Booker or Cuomo – though that can be built and maybe it’ll happen. But right now? It’s foolish to expect them to duplicate Obama’s path. They need to create their own. Schweitzer might be able to do it because he’s not a traditional Democrat, as he’s very similar to Bill Clinton in that regard. I don’t think Warren can play nationally and I don’t think Cuomo will, either.
The only other option is Hillary who is probably a lock, but now with health problems…who knows? I think the prospects of the Republicans winning in ’16 are fairly good if Hillary is not the nominee. And it’s a big reason I’m not quite ready to write their party off.
Of course, if they keep doing what they’re doing, no candidate is going to be able to overcome that brand – not Bush, Rubio or even Christie.
Just my view! Take it for what it’s worth.
Exactly! Besides, in 2008 there was no 47% video and Bill Clinton was not a factor, yet the President received 10 million more votes than McCain! As much as I like and respect Bill Clinton, the fact of the matter is Bill Clinton, both 1n 1992 and 1996, never received 50+1% of the popular votes. People can do all their re-writing about President Obama, but the record w still shows that President Obama is one of the six Presidents in history to receive the majority of popular votes twice. He did that in spite of vicious opposition, a hostile press and race baiting.
Thank you…
A most pertinent fact that is too often overlooked…
Add to that nugget the very important detail that that Barack Obama has got to have a secret weapon called Michelle Obama or it’s all for naught…
This is such a nice tweet from Chelsea. She loves her momma!
Chica, you okay?? I love the body surfing PBO, but we are mopping the floor here!!
I hope that all is well in your world. I know, I know, we are a whiny bunch aren’t we??
Sorry. but my name is Isonprize and I’m hooked on TOD!
I love it!
Let me help us out here. Usually when I post, the thread changes and I am left here alone and by the time I finish, 50 people have signed in. So you see if I keep writing this mindless topic about absolutely nothing, Chips will come. I have been left here so long and the last ne on the thread that It feel like home. So this is the last sentence that I will write b/c I am so sure you guys are already gu us are already there. So as I leave……see you when I see you.
Did it work?
Sorry LDS. Try tomorrow morning.
HAHAHAHA! This is the funniest thing I’ve read all night on Twitter
Chips, you can swim, right?
I don’t know about this body surfing thing. I think I will stick hanging out in Yardam’s basement. The music is very relaxing…..(some times)
Hope all is well.
Jinkies this is a long thread. Last.
Last is first eight about now.
Methinks Chips might have fallen asleep from sheer exhaustion (holidays, work, catching up). If that’s the case then it’s okay Chips, we will abide with patience and love until you return safely
Oh, Chipssssssssssssssssss !!!! President Obama is water logged now
He’s shivering…..sunburned……hungry…….exhausted…..
Ok, wanted to give you guys what I feel as a Canadian and watching the fiscal cliff, and then now the even more ignorance of how this GOP party is handling the devastation far too long for relief of this super storm in NJ and NY. Chris Christie is doing the right thing, and I really liked hearing what he said today. He isn’t a stupid person, and he has Americans in mind for his own purpose. This bastard that tried to take down the President in this election has changed his tune. Why is that? I’m feeling very strongly he has only done this to learn how much he thinks he wants to be President and take down the tea party. He might actually be feeling with all of his glory that He wants to re-establish the Republican party to what it once was, while taking notes from your President. I have one thing to say to Christi…If you think for one moment you want a presidency in 2016… here are a few pointers that you seem to be faltering on…
1. If you lose your temper, nobody likes to listen to an arrogant person, people want to have their questions answered. As a President, you better be able to hold your temper and not want to actually get into a fist fight with civilians while walking down the street eating ice-cream.
2. You better be healthy, being a President isn’t eating Krispy Cream donuts and divulging in the kitchen of the Whitehouse. You will have to become fit and lose 100 pounds. The job of a President requires this.
3. You will have to learn how to negotiate with the world and once again lose that temper that you have.
I think this is a good start to the advice for Christie, but to be honest, he just doesn’t have what it takes to be President. Just because someone wants the presidency, and they have the support of a rabid right wing base and their media puppets, does not mean that they were ever meant for the role. Christie could lose 200 pounds, could get his talking points right, and attend anger management classes. But, judging from his first acts as governor when he decided his trip to Disney World was more important than the impending storm hitting his state, to his two-faced flip-flop right before and after Hurricane Sandy – he has demonstrated that he’s in it for himself, and will do whatever he calculates as right for his own purposes. He’s a right winger, he believes in the right wing philosophy – and no loyalty to his state can overcome that foundation of wrongness. He can’t cover up the wrong with some superficial nonsense – he’s just not meant to be President, and he’s lucky to ever have become governor – he’s just not up to that responsibility.
Theo67 you are so right. My mind has not changed about him at all. Some Dems are getting caught up in the moment. Just before Sandy hit, he was going around the country campaigning for a liar and saying that PBO was not a leader. He is not presidential material. I can’t see him dealing with world leaders diplomatically.
You are right on the mark theo! I didn’t even know about a prior storm hitting his state and running away. Fucking coward, I feel he is taking this Sandy devastation to his own selfishness and what he might gain from it for 2016. What a creep really.
#TrustBarack He Ain’t Play’n Any Games
FACT …
Come on TOD’ers. Suck it up. We have seen threads with over 750 comments.
Seriously? That must have been some very compelling conversation that night!
It was post first debate, IIRR.
No wonder I can’t recall – I stayed away from any conversations that night – even on TOD.
Hi folks, trust you all had a great day. Chips, LOVED the body surfing pic!
I have deliberately avoided the Internet all day, except stopping in to read here. There is so much RWNJ garbage out there today, I just can’t subject myself to all that insanity! Interesting stuff happening today…glad Hillary is recovering, that’s great news. I’m glad Christie is calling out the R’s and Boehner, but I do believe he is merely a clever politician and not terribly sincere. And then there’s the Violence Against Women Act…who votes against something like that????
Hey Rain – you’re very wise to stay away from the internet and all the RW nonsense. I managed to catch up on work and clear some of my DVR shows – it’s just pointless watching the pundits try and execute their agenda. The President is out of town, enjoying the last days of his vacation, and there’s very little actual news to report (in the US), and the media isn’t interested in reporting any global news – even though there a TON of stuff happening around the world. So, watching the “news” at this point is an exercise in frustration, as the pundits are just making it all up. We’ll need to rest up before the inauguration, then the State of the Union, and then the sequester and debt ceiling fiascos that are on the way. Rest up, the President is going to need us ready to fight back against the noise.
Well said, Theo…thanks for the encouragement!
Well stated! They don’t call it the “noise machine” for nothing. For sanity and clarity best to not watch political pundit shows and get your news sparingly from selected sources. This is a great spot to get a reality check.
Watched The Last Word tonight and thank goodness Lawrence pushed back at the BS being propagated by the emo-left that Pres. Obama “caved” to the GOP. Lawrence pointed out that if anyone thinks Pres. Obama rolled over for the GOP, then they’re not very smart. When the first George Bush raised taxes, he only got 19 votes from the GOP. Pres. Obama got way more than that (89-8) and yet the GOP won? The GOP stared over the fiscal cliff and backed down and anyone who thinks otherwise really doesn’t understand the art of negotiation.
You also must watch the ‘Rewrite’ he did last night and your level of respect for Sen. Harry Reid will most definitely rise. While the media was yelling about the fiscal cliff, they didn’t realize that Pres. Obama was working behind the scenes with Harry Reid to arrange for the votes needed to pass the deal in the senate. He sent VP Biden to the senate to smooth things over and tie up loose ends and anyone who thinks Pres. Obama was weak behind the scenes truly doesn’t know the man. Lawrence pointed out that while the fiscal cliff deal was being hammered, Harry Reid got 100 votes to confirm Pres. Obama’s choice to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), confirmed an Ambassador, and got a mini tax bill dealing with the flu vaccine through the senate.
I’m just waiting for Harry to adopt “Honey Badger” as his middle name because damn….damn…damn.
Reality is so much more nourishing than whimpering and fantasmagorical sludge …..
Yes The Last Word was awesome tonight. Love what Harry Reid did while the press was not looking.
Thanks UT, as always, for sharing the facts, and just the facts, with us! I rarely watch TV news but I may start checking out Lawarence O. Based on some of the clips posted here, he seems to be one of the few pundits who understand clearly how the political system works.
Valid context …
Essential context …
Reality ….
Amusing …
Working late in my studio, listening to this piece and thought of all of my new TOD friends and all the love and support for PBO here, so I thought I’d share. Enjoy.
Rest well, everyone and Chips thank you for such a fantastic community!!!!
now, off to some sleep ….
Just heard on local news that Time Warner is dropping Current” due to the sale to Al Jazera(sp). I wonder if Direct tv will do the same?
“Current”.
Okay , why isn’t Bill Press whining about Time Warner is dropping Current thing AM?
Buh Bye Bill and all your other firebaggers
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/A_pe89nCcAAi-uJ.jpg:large
Senior Pakistani militant leader Mullah Nazir is killed by a US drone strike in the tribal area of north-western Pakistan
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-20896755
night all~
Finally…something! http://livewire.talkingpointsmemo.com/entry/photo-obama-swimming-in-hawaii
A few that had me crying again – what a wonderful man he is – always – to everyone
Nice story about a military parent meeting PBO in the Oval office.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/gary-s-chafetz/shaking-hands-with-obama-_b_2395462.html
Incredibly heartwarming…
Very nice read; thanks for sharing…
New post!!!!
http://theobamadiary.com/2013/01/03/rise-and-shine-390/
ADP job report for December for the private sector shows increase of 215,000. November adjusted to add 39,000 jobs for total of 148,000.