President Obama signs the payroll tax cut extension in the White House Oval Office
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President Obama wishes members of the media a Merry Christmas on leaving for Hawaii
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Yeah baby!!
What, I really am first?!! WooT President Obama gets to be with his girls on Christmas. OOOOh, the Rethugs are gonna be mad ALL NEXT YEAR!!!!
Get ready, get ready, get ready!!!
Wooooot!! He looks really happy!
Compliments of the season to all my fellow proud Obots!!!
Blessings to our spectacular President and First lady and their wonderful family as they re-unite. May they have a restful, peaceful, love, joy & laughter filled holiday and come back refreshed and revved up!!!
He looks so happy and cute! Have a wonderful vacation Mr. President.
Wouldn’t you be happy leaving from being around those crazy GOP jackasses in D.C., and going to be with your family in Hawaii.
I’ll be grining from ear to ear too.
Grinning ear to ear…..
Oh Chips, you are the best! How are we all going to deal with not having our daily TOD posts during PBO’s so richly deserved vacation. Chips, Do you think you’ll still post during the next week? We are all going to be in withdrawal!
No worries Lovingandlaughing, I’ll be posting every day! If there’s nothing coming out of Hawaii we’ll find something to keep ourselves going
Okay, sounds great! Thanks!
I love you Chips. Thank you. The DTs next week would have been horrendous!
Lisa, I have a whole week off, my boss won’t be calling once to politely ask ‘WHERE THE **** IS YOUR WORK”, so easy peasy!!! Love ya back
Wait, WHAT??? You do this, AND you have a full time job? Are you kidding me? OMG, your boss must be an Obamabot too!!! LOLOLOL
Well isonprize, my boss would dispute that there’s anything full-time about my work
He lets me work from home because he trusts me to devote all my time and energy to the job …… 
You naughty lady you! We all know you work in a covert manner for PBO so of course he’s an Obot.
Thanks for the pictures Chips. PBO looks so incredibly happy, he’s practically surfing his way to Hawaii. Aloha indeed!
How do you get the blushing face??
Hey Betsey, just go to the wordpress.com link to see a complete list of similies: http://en.support.wordpress.com/smilies/
Thanks so much.
Well, I’m just glad for whatever arrangements you’ve made!! I love this site. I spend WAAAAAYYY to much time here. But I justify it because I don’t have cable. So this (and a few of the other sites on your blogroll..) really is my news source.
Love this site!! I have no idea how I would have survived this political year if it weren’t for you!! I’m serious about that. For REAL!!!
Whew! Thanks Chips! See I’ve gotten (is that a word?) all used to this wonderful site and all you wonderful guys, so whew!!!
What is that, a deer statue? Scared the hell outta me for a minute
Good eyes! Your question reminded me of Marisa Tomei in “My Cousin Vinny” talking about the deer….remember that?
“I’ve never seen that movie,” she said sheepishly.
Hilarious movie,PJ! You HAVE to check it out over vacation……then you will know about the “little deers”
“What’s a ‘yoot’?”
Great funny movie! And Hola DF! Feliz Navidad and all that good stuff to you and your family ♥ I hope you see this. I’m off to my brother’s house for the holiday.
Yup.Tomei was totally hawt and cool in that movie. Totally beat down pesci and others in the acting dept.
And won an Oscar as Best Supporting Actress for her role!
Wow - how’d you see that? Love it.
That voter fraud the Republicans harp on, isn’t coming from where they SAY it is!
http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/political-animal/2011_12/another_gop_official_caught_co034290.php
DF this needs to be sent to Fox news, Politico and all those cry babies see how they spin this morons
AND here - http://www.salon.com/2011/09/27/votinghack/
Well that is freaking horrifying!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I know this was mentioned in a previous thread, but, yes, the world is watching. Top headline on the BBC News site:
“Obama beats Congress in tax fight.”
Oh the world is definitely watching. Sometimes they pay more attention than voters in this country. I was watching CBS’s The Early Show this morning and a lot of American voters vacationing in Hawaii had no idea why PBO’s vacation was delayed and that he was fighting for them. Some guy who would benefit from $1000 in his paycheck said all he hears is payroll tax cuts and he knows it’s a bad thing. The reporter had to explain the benefits of a payroll tax cut and when the ignorant voter realized it would benefit him he began expressing thanks to PBO. The only people who knew why PBO’s vacation was delayed were two Canadian women on vacation in Hawaii and they said they pay VERY close attention to what happens in America because it drastically affects the economies of other countries and they were thankful to PBO for fighting for the middleclass.
So, yep the world is definitely watching.
Geez that guy was a moron. What part of “payroll tax cut” sounds like a bad thing? OY!
Right! The desperately unimformed.
I had a conversation last night with a 40-something client who has been out of work for the better part of this year…I told her (she is a repub) PBO and the DEMS fought to keep unemployment benefits at 99 weeks…her beloved repubs want to only give her 59 weeks…she didn’t KNOW…I told her there is no excuse for her not knowing…I told her that her beloved repubs didn’t care for her no more than they care for me (a black middle class small business owner)…I had to tell her that her beloved repubs only care about the rich….she dodn’t know!
….she didn’t know!
She should also know that her beloved Repubs want to drug-test people on unemployment. I wonder if she’ll start paying attention then.
SHAMEFUL! Obviously thats why we are here. We need to be PBO’s mouthpiece cause the masses are getting it anywhere else.
Look at that grin and the pep in his step. So glad that he is outta here!
Mele Kalekemaka and and aloha, Mr. President. Godspeed.
Can’t wait to see family pics
He looks wonderful. Job well done.
Yes, our President looks sooooooooooo very happy, because It’s a good accomplishment, bless his heart
But I really do want to comment on the Palin Christmas card, Lol, I almost fell off my chair laughing at *BO* peeing on her leg, that’s was too funny.
luci1119, I had myself a good ole laugh to when I saw Bo peeing on Palin. These people are so dam stupid, trying to make an issue out of Bo being on the Obama Christmas card.
He looks so happy I know he can’t wait to get to his family and the beach.
You know, I think PBO’s kind of happy to be heading for Hawaii:
Safe journey Mr President.
And, if we could see the faces on the First Lady Michelle, Malia, and Sasha! Thanks Chips, and a Big Aloha to you and your TOD Fam.
I hope Bo is going to Hawaii to. POTUS does have a big nice smile on his face. have a safe trip Mr. President and I hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
Bo can’t go. Animals have a 6-month quarantine coming into Hawaii.
He is able to go this year.
Are you sure?
Tally, I can’t find it, but there was a link on TOD with facts (oooh, imagine that….
) about what Bo has been thru (shots, quarantine, etc..) to be able to travel to Hawai’i. I can’t find any current news on whether or not he traveled to Hawai’i for Christmas, but if he did, he had the necessary shots and paperwork to do so.
Yeahhhhhhhhhh, he Is
Safe journey and Godspeed indeed. What I find so incredibly compelling is that the president was willing to selflessly sacrifice his precious time with his beloved family if need be? He truly loves the people. How endearing - the operative word in public servant, is truly servant for this president. Love it!
He’s saying to himself and to us; “see I tole y’all I got this!”
♥ ♥ ♥ Good Day Chips! Good Day TOD Family! ♥ ♥ ♥
Barack Obama Quote O’ The Day
Have a great afternoon, everyone!
Enough said, Mr. President! And PJ!
Heh…
Excellent! Have a safe flight to Hawai’i, Mr. President.
Found this by accident just now…http://youtu.be/cEJFyFgfRgs
Enjoy!
Wow…that was wonderful…thank you.
Thank you so much!
BYW, that is one of three songs that has kept me going the past year. Thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!!
You are truly welcome, Alycee.
What a wonderful video, just posted it to my blog, thanks so much insomniac
Beautiful…..this song will always have a profound impact on me. They played it at my beloved cousin’s funeral. Under 40 and quickly succumbed to liver cancer. Life is so precious and so fleeting - I encourage the TOD community to NEVER conflate the meaning of Christmas with those boxes wrapped in foil paper underneath the tree, it is so much more than that.
Bet you $10K the President ripped off the jacket and tie, the minute he got aboard AF1 !!
Merry Christmas, Mr. President!
YOU BET HE DID…ALOHA…TIES GONE! THANK HEAVENS! IT’S RELAX TIME,LOTS OF GOOD FOOD AND FUN WITH HIS FAMILY!
I’ll bet you 20k you’re right!
We all win!
I’d love to see him deplane in sandals, lol.
I would love to see FLOTUS , Malia, and Sasha welcome him as he gets off the plane.
“It may not have been politically the smartest thing in the world.” – Boehner
You’re right Mr. Speaker; and Aloha to you! – PBO
“Aloha,” says Pres. Obama, with the sounds of Marine One audible from the briefing room, after wishing everyone — including the press, but especially the military — Merry Christmas and happy holidays.
Thank you & Godspeed Mr. President, please have a safe journey to be with your family… May the Holy Spirits continue smiling upon you and your family in 2012 and forevermore. … Amen.
“Happy holidays Chips; you’re quick today.”
BACK TO THE BAR FOR BOEHNER SO HE CAN ‘ELBOW’ SUMMIT HIS WAY THRU THE HOLIDAYS!
I hope Bo was already on the plane…
OH THEY WON’T LEAVE ‘THE BO’ BEHIND!!!!
They have to leave Bo on the mainland because of all the animal quarantine rules in Hawaii.
Huge! One of the reasons why my husband and I turned down being stationed in Hawaii when he was in the Navy. Not leaving my babies to be quarantined for 6 months!
Helloooooooo Tally, read yesterday that Bo will have no problems this year, he’ll be waved straight through based on clear tests from last year - woooooot! Or, rather, woooooooof!
Yeah Chips, I read that also, *BO* has been cleared to go to Hawaii
That’s pretty huge.
Tally,
I read yesterday on one of the threads that Bo would not have to be quarantined. Maybe someone can post why again. From what I remember he had all his shots and all the paper work was complete and because he is just visiting for less than 90 days he would not have to be quarantined.
A bit of space news. Not very heartening for astronauts on the ISS.
Story here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-16317099
Ok, this article is a MUST READ for making sense of the 2011 revolutions.
Eric Hobsbawm on 2011: ‘It reminds me of 1848…’
2012 is going to be a momentous year. Hold on to your hats, kids.
And this.
LL, I see another avid BBC fan. I posted that piece here coupla threads back.
People [see foolish] have wondered why POTUS was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize - others readily acknowledge his utter magnificence, his sheer brilliance, and that he stands and embodies principles that far transcend the American presidency
PBO IS DOIN’ THE ALOHA HUSTLE….OUT OF TOWN…GOING TO HAVE THE VACATION HE DESERVES!
Love the blue skies that were shining on President Obama, as he departed!
Thanks for pictures chip.
Btw- I am on my new treadmill I got for x-mas.
How do you like me now?
Jovie, you’re looking mighty fine!!!
Jovie, does every treadmill guarantee fast results like this, or only your treadmill? I’m interested because this is what I hoped to give myself for Christmas and knowing the results are guaranteed would minimize my questioning if this is a wise (financial) move.
Get it, Jovie - it’s your birthday! You will be bikini ready in no time. I feel inspired
Dow Jones up 91 points. I hope those masters of the universe realize just who prevented the economy from suffering a major blow this week.
Michelle Bachmann has lost the “gay robot” vote.
The green groups reacted to the payroll deal in fiction-
GREENS ON KEYSTONE: FINGERS CROSSED: “The administration’s promise to deny this permit, if fulfilled, will be one of the rare pieces of good news for the climate in a year which saw America shatter all records for billion-dollar weather disasters,” activist Bill McKibben said in a statement. “The president campaigned hard in 2008 on trying to slow the climate crisis, and this would be a strong sign he meant what he said.”
-
What about the EPA mercury rules this week?
Stupid green groups can’t give credit where credit is due!
Uhm, he didn’t promise to deny the permit. They said an expedited process might kill it. I wish people wouldn’t exaggerate what was said. Its best to keep protesting and spreading the facts rather than wait and see.
If every a man was born to be President!
Rudyard Kipling
If
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or, being lied about, don’t deal in lies,
Or, being hated, don’t give way to hating,
And yet don’t look too good, nor talk too wise;
If you can dream - and not make dreams your master;
If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with triumph and disaster
And treat those two imposters just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to broken,
And stoop and build ‘em up with wornout tools;
If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breath a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: “Hold on”;
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings - nor lose the common touch;
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run -
Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it,
And - which is more - you’ll be a Man my son!
LOve love love this poem. So perfectly describes PBO.
My thoughts exactly.
I agree too.
Oops: If “ever” a man was born to be president. I’ve always loved this poem, too, but never knew of anyone who could have stood as its model. Somehow, across the years, Kipling foresaw our president.
A beautiful match, ain’t it? I remember sharing this here months and months ago. Thank you for this reminder, Fanciful.
My favorite poem. At the risk of sounding a tad crazy….it was like a prophecy just hanging in the air waiting for someone to come along and fulfill it.
Ah, can only agree. That describes PBO perfectly.
I am going to pray that the entire world just stays calm during our Dear President’s vacation. He needs this time off without having to deal with any major problems. As much as I want to see pictures of the First Family on vacation-I kind of hope there won’t be any available after the photos of him landing-I hope they get some privacy.
I share this prayer with you, auni, (and all of us here, I am certain!)
I agree, it’s seems we’ve had back to back years of tradgetites at the end of the year that made the Presidemt end his vacation. Lets pray for no major upsets - man made or natural for the next two weeks.
Besty - just in case you missed my reply on the other thread:
Betsy – up on the top of your screen menu on the right, just right of the sound/volume icon, is on the Character Viewer icon – click that, click SHOW CHARACTER VIEWER and it will come up.
At the bottom of the Character Viewer, on the right, is a little search window with a magnifying glass, that says Description & code. Click in that and type – heart – then hit enter and it will search for it. Once you find what you want (there are several) click on it, then click INSERT button on the bottom left.
On the bottom left is a little favorites button – click that and you can click ADD TO FAVORITES so you can find it faster next time.
Got it, thanks darlin. Hope you have a wonderful holiday©©
Oops♥
I just LOVE the way he said “Aloha” like he’s been waiting to say that for a few days now. HA, They keep underestimating him.
Exactly! He knew that it was a done deal.
Have you noticed how beautiful the Oval Office is now? The refurbishing that was done under this administration has sure improved the way it looks. Having that beautiful man at the desk hasn’t hurt either!
Barbara Walters commented on how beautiful the White House and it’s accessories and furnishings are since the Obamas moved in. She said it was nice in previous administrations but it’s really gorgeous now. Gotta love POTUS and FLOTUS’s sense of style.
Yes. I wasn’t wild about it at first but better pictures have been posted and you can really see the great colors and how classy it looks. I did note from the beginning that it was a VAST improvement over the previous administrations.
What about that ? When the Prez left the podium?
The way I take it is - that is Iraqs business not ours!
Jovie, it was annoying to hear questions about Iraq shouted at him. Sometimes reporters have no sense of timing, or rather no sense. He has a plane waiting, idiots. He said aloha and he was on his way. Leave it alone and go have a Christmas eggnog.
But did you hear that one reporter who said, “Happy New Year, Mr. President”? Put those rude incompetents to shame.
Yes. It was gratifying to hear that.
Is there video of Romney not knowing how to pump gas ? They were just laughing about it on Martin’s show.
I saw the video of him pumping gas and he looked mighty awkward as though that was his first time doing so. Everytime Willard tries to show voters he’s “just like them” it results in him having egg on his face. Everyone on the panel mocked him because it was so obvious he did that for the cameras. Ugh!
Just like George H W Bush’s grocery scanner moment.
EPA PUBLISHES BOILER MACT RULE: In Friday’s Federal Register, the EPA is publishing its proposed emissions rule for industrial boilers, also known as boiler MACT. This starts the 60-day countdown clock for public comments; EPA is accepting comment on the rule to speak to changes made since it was originally finalized in March. Get your copy here: http://bit.ly/tVrfDe
-
And the pubs go crazy!
The Pubs want this repeal in the new tax deal, senator boxer said, we will see about that! Lol!
Happy Holidays to all of my TOD’s friends:-)
I am grateful for this place, where we gather in support of our wonderful President..
I am grateful for all the tears and joy shared by so many….
I am grateful for all the brilliant minds that teach me a thing or two…..You’ve been my comfort from outside media….
I can’t say enough…or can I find words for my gratitude for Ms.Chips….You make my world shine a little brighter EVERY SINGLE DAY!!
THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!! THANK YOU!!!! and Merry Christmas to all of you ~ much love ~ Kasai
Beautiful thoughts, kasai…from the heart
Hugs to you. Love you back.
That was beautiful Kasai. Thank YOU and a very Merry Christmas to you and yours!
God Bless you Kasai, Merry Xmas to you too and all my TOD family!
Kasai-May all those good wishes be returned to you. We do sustain each other through ups and downs and the challenges next year are going to stretch all those strong bonds we’ve built. But now is the time to bask in the love of family and friends and enjoy the holiday to the fullest. Cheers!!
I am so thankful for this place too. You have put into words what I feel. This place is a haven for so many of us. Have a wonderful blessed Merry Christmas, kasai and all!!!!
Thanks Kasai for your lovely thoughts. I totally concur with you. We are such a beautiful family here, and our thanks go to Chips and each family member who brings to us all each day a bundle of joy through intellect, caring hearts, and a healthy serving of respect.
I feel so blessed to be here and to know that I am a part of this beautiful family. May all of you here have a most lovely celebration of these wonderful holidays. May your family, friends, and more friends that we have met here be a part of our thankfulness during this beautiful season.
We are a very special team in that our support for our beloved hardworking POTUS is totally committed to keeping his back, praying, and meditating with good energy for him, his Cabinet, and all of his staff. We are one with our President.
May he and our First Family enjoy the beauty of Hawaii, the fun and relaxation with friends, and we all know that he will still be working even through this is the holidays. That is who he is. I love him for that. As our First Grandmother stated it once, “He is the hardest working man I know.” That is a beautiful thought coming from your mother-in-law and she sees it up close and personal.
Have a wonderful Christmas, Mr. President and our beautiful First Lady. We love you all.HZ
thanks Kasai - Merry Christmas to you too and Happy New Year!!!
You gotta see this funny tweet from the great George Takei:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v495/LadyCabDriver/georgetakai.png
Ha ha! So true! I hope more Americans continue to snap out of that fog they’ve been in the last couple of years.
That Takei tweet was perfect, squarepeg. Thanks.
Oh kasai-that was a beautiful post. I echo every word! I saw over on Huffington Po that WH reporters are complaining about mean treatment from the WH press office-oh pleeese.
How old are these reporters? Five?
“Aloha”… wink and roll out. Don’tcha love it? That’s My President!
uh oh!
BREAKING: BOEHNER, CANTOR IN STANDOFF WITH CAPITOL POLICE
http://www.democratsforprogress.com/2011/12/23/breaking-boehner-cantor-in-standoff-with-capitol-police/
Unconfirmed reports indicate that Capitol police have called for a hostage negotiator to respond to an ongoing situation in the Capitol building in which House Speaker John Boehner and Majority Leader Eric Cantor have barricaded themselves in a conference room, demanding that they be joined there by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell along with President Obama and the Obama family dog Bo. Authorities have confirmed that the eight Republican House members appointed by the ‘Cincinnati Cinnamon Stick’ to the conference committee which he was expecting to negotiate the pending tax holiday legislation with Senate Democrats are with the Speaker and Majority Leader, but it is not certain if they are there voluntarily or have been taken hostage like the rest of the country.
Read on for more of this developing story—or don’t….
Reportedly, Boehner is crying, “Obama-uh-I mean, President Obama, don’t go…help meeee!” Poor fella.
LOL!
:0)
ALERT! ALERT! ALERT! Some Republicans could be coming to their senses!!!
http://thepoliticalcarnival.net/2011/12/23/republican-colleagues-have-told-sen-harry-reid-privately-that-they-could-support-raising-taxes-on-the-wealthy/
Reid said several Senate Republican colleagues have told him privately that they could support raising taxes on the wealthy to defray the budget impact.
The quick move by Reid to float the millionaire tax suggests Democrats are prepared to play hardball with the GOP in the next round of talks on the payroll package.
Happy Damn Day!
Good news if it’s true. I’ll believe it when I see the proof though. They can say a lot in private, but it doesn’t turn into actual votes, as my uncle use to say, that ain’t worth dog spit.
I don’t like it when stuff like that leaks out….it usually backfires…Remember Lieberman ruined the Medicare for All because everyone wanted it.
Actually, I saw Sen. Reid on CSpan today, and he said this very thing to the reporters on the room. I wouldn’t call that a leak.
oh…
The GOP is now very susceptible to Jedi mind tricks.
This kind of stuff happens all the time. There were Republicans who wanted to vote for the stimulus too. Some of them wanted to vote for all kinds of things but didn’t because they were ordered or threatened by the GOP leadership.
BREAK OUT THE POPCORN: When people on the Fox Business Channel complained that “The Muppets” was brainwashing kids against the oil industry, it got Talia Buford wondering: How much energy-themed indoctrination is Hollywood pumping onto the big screen, anyway? A lot, it turns out. Whether the villain of the day is a puppet-hating oil baron, an anti-ghost-hunting EPA agent or an interstellar crew of tree-burning commandos, energy and the environment are golden topics for screenwriters looking for ways to put our favorite characters in jeopardy. Talia brings you a handy viewing guide: http://politico.pro/tiLpDh
— The Texas grid’s year ahead will depend on the weather, electricity demand and EPA’s Cross-State Air Pollution Rule. NYT: http://nyti.ms/w4aWOJ
Oh Yeah! More Good News:
Wow…didn’t SC get parts of their immigration law blocked yesterday ?
Yes, it did.
Yup! Florida is next!
Let’s get to work Mr. Holder. They are trying to steal the 2012 election.
Trump just registered as an independent!
Hmmm!
Whatever. I am so over him.
Yes! Run Donald Run! How about a third party ticket of Gingrich/Trump or Trump/Gingrich (… whatevah)? Can’t you just see it in lights?
Orville Reddenbacher thanks you for profitable 2011 and an even more prosperous 2012.
Yep - good for popcorn sales, and pretty much nothing else.
Expect him to hit the campaign trail after he gets his important tv work done.
Michelle Bachmann is on the warpath about the extension of the payroll tax cut, saying this is being paid for by taking money from Social Security. Excuse me, but I thought that this was paid for through higher fees by people buying homes with the help of Fannie/Freddie. Someone correct me if I’m wrong, otherwise this is being sent to Attackwatch….
You are correct….she is clueless. Seems to me she could have objected if she wanted to. When is the last time she even voted ?
OOOOOOOOOOO…I guess she hasn’t cast a vote since August 1st…and some people in MN are NOT HAPPY!
http://www.rippleinstillwater.com/2011/09/michele-bachmann-owes-her-6th-district.html Unhappy enough to throw her sorry lying ass to the curb? Minnesota, YOU DESERVE BETTER!
Please, please let this woman lost her House seat. She has shown absolutely no interest in serving her district and she’s succeeded in making a national fool of herself. Surely somebody can run against her and win.
I would feel that I had died and gone to heaven if Bachman was defeated by Terryl Clark (if she runs again) in 2012.
Terryl Clark is running again in 2012 but not in Bachman’s district. It’s a crying shame that she didn’t win last time. She was infinitely more capable than Michelle Bachman. I hope the people who voted for the candidate with the R by the name are having buyers remorse. We can only hope that the level of embarrassment is high enough to overcome party affiliation. Minnesota does deserve better.
That’s good to know. I hope she wins. She seemed very capable. I don’t understand her constituents not seeing how batshit crazy Bachman is. I wish Clark every success.
love the article-so well researched, argued, and written. then they throw in the video ‘gimme my money back’-absolutely wonderful. thanks for posting this link.
and let me take this opportunity to thank all the tod family for your good work in bringing optimism along with excellent information to us out here in the hinterlands. may you have a very merry christmas holiday with your loved ones!
i’m here in hawaii, loving the feel of our first family being here with us (though i won’t see them at all-i’m on an outer island). i know they’ll get a good big dose of aloha and relaxation, to see them through the next year.
special lei of aloha (that’s a hug!) to chips!
left a comment. she’s an embarrassment to MN. well to everyone in Minnesota except for the misguided people who think she’s the neatest thing next to sliced bread.
I don’t know the specifics of the fees but its something like that. It is not coming from Social Security and its a lie that’s been pushed from the left and the right.
I just sent it to Attackwatch…I’m sick of the lies, and the liars that tell them.
“Does the recently extended payroll tax cut harm the solvency of the Social Security trust fund? Answer: no it doesn’t. The shortfall is made up with payments from the general fund, so the trust fund suffers no loss of income at all.”
http://motherjones.com/kevin-drum/2011/12/does-cutting-payroll-tax-endanger-social-security
I’m still studying this. My understanding is that the payroll tax funds Social Security, so it stands to reason that if you cut that tax, you cut the revenues to fund Social Security. But apparently, according the Mother Jones link above, the loss in revenue from the payroll tax cut can be made up by the general fund. So my next question is, do we have enough revenue sources going into the general fund?
Thanks, FiredUpInCA…keep searching…I sent that to AttackWatch just the same. I will search as well, to see what I can find. Thanks so much for your help
Someone should send this to Senator Sanders.
When was the last time she was present and voted in the House? She needs to get a complete physical work-up.
I did not realize she was an active sitting member. She traversing the entire country spewing malicious drivel
Cool Links from Obama Foodorama:
Recipe Collectiom: White House Holiday Desserts
http://obamafoodorama.blogspot.com/2011/12/white-house-holiday-dessert-recipe.html
White House Holiday Tour Book http://www.whitehouse.gov/files/docs/Holidays-at-the-White-House-2011.pdf
White House Holiday Photo of the Day 12/13
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1M_k-3HRcLg/TufURuwRI7I/AAAAAAAAdtk/Io8ZfRb2q0s/s1600/boseatednorthportico.jpg
I love that Bo pic. Great tree!
Ny Times suit against the administration for the targeting of American citizens.
Does the ny times feel it is alright if al Qaeda is an American born citizen?
That is all!
I believe they just want a letter or memo.
“The New York Times filed a lawsuit Thursday asking the Justice Department to turn over a legal memo prepared by government lawyers that the paper believes outlines the circumstances under which it is lawful for the United States to kill an American citizen.”
http://www.memeorandum.com/111223/p45#a111223p45
They will probably accept the signing statement that will be attach to the military authorization bill.
What a bunch of a-holes.
The NYT never sued Bush. Not once. Which is astonishing considering all the shit he pulled.
And when they discovered that Bush was illegally wiretapping Americans before the 2004 election, they buried it.
OMG……….unbelievable. The press cannot be impartial and sue the administration. I am appalled and disgusted. This is clearly politically motivated. I believe the president can cite “executive privilege.”
http://thinkprogress.org/lgbt/2011/12/23/394930/2011-was-a-banner-year-for-lgbt-equality/
Good news for Arizona!
http://www.azcentral.com/news/election/azelections/articles/2011/12/23/20111223-arizona-federal-judge-blocks-abortion-law.html
Yes yes yes yes yes! Aloha, Mr President, SIR!
Aloha Mr President!
May your trip be safe and swift and may you and your family have the wonderful joys of a restful and uneventful (nationally) holiday.
Donna - May I take a moment to wish you and yours a very happy holiday season! I’m sure you never expected such a unique experience (your little chat with PBO) to happen in 2011, but we’re all so thrilled for you that it did. Merry Christmas!
Slightly OT — very nice article on Melody Barnes, outgoing Director of the Domestic Policy Council (and fellow UNC Tarheel) on The Grio:
http://www.thegrio.com/specials/life-and-style/melody-barnes-trades-white-house-for-family-life.php
If you’re unfamiliar with her, these two comments say it all:
“President Obama offered this comment about his faithful policy adviser and long-time friend: “I will always be grateful that a woman of Melody’s brilliance, creativity and heart led our domestic policy team during such a challenging time for our nation. Melody has left a lasting legacy, developing and implementing policies that have helped remake our education system, spurred innovation, and fostered opportunity and equality for millions of Americans.”
Her colleague and friend, Valerie Jarrett had this to say: “Melody has been a central figure in the President’s efforts to build the foundation for a growth economy, and everywhere you look you can see signs of her effectiveness — in reforming education from pre-K through college, in pushing a record number of public-private partnerships in areas ranging from job training to innovation, and in her work on issues ranging from healthcare to childhood obesity. We’ve been fortunate to have her leadership and will miss her greatly.”
——————
Among the achievements Barnes said she is proudest of:
• Education reform, including $100 billion in American Recovery Act dollars; the Race to the Top Challenge which, for just 1 percent of our nation’s spending on education, inspired 40 states to reform their education laws to create rigorous college and career ready standards; and the Investing in Innovation fund and School Improvement Grants, designed to turn around the nation’s lowest-performing schools.
• Efforts to reduce higher education costs by ending subsidies for private student lenders and giving $40 billion in savings back to students, raising the maximum Pell Grant award to $5,550, supporting the nation’s community colleges, and providing tax credits to help families pay for college.
• Implementing the Affordable Care Act, which the administration says will provide health coverage to 34 million uninsured Americans, and make health care more affordable.
• Advocating comprehensive immigration reform, and reforming enforcement procedures to focus on securing the nation’s borders; holding employers who knowingly hire undocumented workers accountable, and focusing enforcement resources on those illegal migrants who are a threat to public safety and national security.
• Establishing the first White House Office of Social Innovation and Civic Participation and establishing the Social Innovation Fund to strengthen the non-profit sector, promote public-private partnerships and engage more Americans in strengthening their communities.”
—————
Job well done, Ms. Barnes. Thank you for your service and all the best to you in the next phase of your personal and professional life!
Barnes is a smart cookie. And the fact she oodles of charm is just the icing on the cake.
Chipsticks,
Thank you very much for this space you have created. It is one thing to create something, it is another thing to do what you’ve done: namely persevere and nurture a reliable resource and a refuge. You’ve attracted so many smart and soulful people that I consistently learn from and look forward to teaching me in 2012. Happy holidays to you and yours. I wish the best for the best.
ITA with this. I think history will show all the information stored on this site and will be a wonderful tool hidden in the archives.
I tell you, if you just wait long enough, and pay attention…they all do it to themselves!
http://www.politicususa.com/en/inquiry-governor-haley-misuse-fund
enator Tom Harkin (D-IO) is calling for an investigation into whether Gov. Nikki Haley misused a federal health care reform grant by dictating the recommendations of an independent panel that used the funds to develop a report on how to keep South Carolina out of the exchange system. Lynn Bailey, an independent health economist in Columbia who participated in the committee discussions, referred to Haley’s research committee as kabuki theater.
Cool WH video on the #40dollars just released with the folks who were behind him during his speech
The difference: What 40 Dollars Means : http://youtu.be/Y_BfblBkdCY
NZ…did you have an earthquake today?? I read somewhere that there was an earthquake in New Zealand. You guys ok??
Hi Desertflower… Yes we had an earthquake but it first started Friday afternoon (your Thursday). The city that was struck (Christchurch) is where I used to live, but since the big earthquake we had this year in February 2011 (a month before the Japan earthquake in March), I moved to another city just a couple of months ago.
It was a very traumatizing experience and my son couldn’t handle the repeated aftershocks so we had to move, it was like everyday you were walking on jelly and at night it was like you were out at sea… the ground just shakes and sometimes pretty violently.
If there’s one thing I am grateful for that has come out of this experience, is the immediate assistance given to us by President Obama and others (Japan, Australia and other NZ allies). PBO sent Military to help with search and rescue efforts immediately and was very clear that whatever it takes, he was there to help.
NZ’ers are quite known to shake it off, get their hands dirty and move forward with rebuilding, that’s why I find it so difficult to understand the obstructionism coming from the GOP, especially at a time when people are suffering so much at this time/season.
Anyway, my parents moved out of that city just a few weeks ago, so I am grateful they escaped another big earthquake. This time there has been no deaths, but only a few injuries. So I can say, we are ok here in New Zealand. For many of us, its a time to reflect and be thankful to wake up another day, not forgetting those who died in the February 22, 2025 earthquake.
I appreciate you going out of your way to acknowledge whats happening in my country *hugs* You have a really good heart!
Thank you,love! We live in a global community, and if I know that one of our TOD family is somewhere that something has happened, good or bad, I would surely ask
So glad that you and your son are safe and sound…parents as well. Please stay safe…..hugs to you as well!
Glad you and your family are safe, NZ. Send our love to your fellow countrymen dealing with this most recent quake and its aftermath.
It’s also very heartening to hear firsthand that our President is providing the kind of assistance that should be provided to our neighbors around the world. Thanks for sharing your story. Merry Christmas!
Thank You so much Dudette.. I appreciate the kind words!! POTUS is definitely a wonderful President. He is loved ‘down-under’ in the Pacific by many people in the Polynesian Islands, New Zealand and Australia
If the world could vote in the 2012 Election, I can assure you, he would get the votes on this side of the Pacific Ocean… guaranteed!!! Have a wonderful Christmas weekend (in 6 more hours, NZ will be one of the first countries to see the Christmas Day begin hehehe)
So glad you are ok. My nephew left Christchurch the day before the earthquake hit last February, but lost a good friend that day, and another friend lost her leg. It was very hard on him. I am so sorry you had to go through that again.
Betsy, my condolences for your nephews loss. My mother lost a friend in that same earthquake. Although we were mourning for a life that had been lost, at the same time we were celebrating new life (my brother and his partner had their first child, a boy, the following day after the earthquake). I hope the events that are happening here, doesn’t deter your nephew from visiting here again in future with other NZ cities not affected by the quake
like the ‘Middle Earth’ hehehe
When my family/friends who were with me during the quake gather together tonight before midnight (it will be Christmas for us in a few hours), we will have him and his friends in our thoughts and prayers as we reflect on 2011. Merry Christmas Betsy, you’ve made my Christmas Eve evening more special. Thank you! *hugs*
Thank you NZ4Obama, his name is Thomas. Congratulations on your new nephew’s birth despite a trying time. I am positive that Thomas will be back in NZ one day. He loved it there and hated to leave. Merry Christmas to you and your family as well.
You had new babies hatch! Adorable:)
http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2011/12/22/second-rare-white-kiwi-hatches-in-new-zealand/
hehehe.. Yes, NZ tries to make sure all its native animals remain a big part of our History/Culture. So, we try to make sure things like this continue… especially a rarity like this! White Kiwi’s are very uncommon
The only country in the world to have these flightless birds needs to remain alive.
Absolutely!
They are adorable.
Beautiful. Time and energy will not permit me to list everything I love about this esteemed administration but I must say one of the most endearing things about the WH and the PBO is how they readily embrace everyday people, their problems, hopes, and dreams. Everyday citizens have been the focus from day one. The voice of everyday people was ignored in the previous administration.
I did find this from WH.gov and the AJA…
Cutting payroll taxes in half for 160 million workers next year: The President’s plan will expand the payroll tax cut passed last year to cut workers payroll taxes in half in 2012 – providing a $1,500 tax cut to the typical American family, without negatively impacting the Social Security Trust Fund.
Wow, just wow. The top 10 hits from Ron Paul’s writings, per TPM: 10 Shocking Quotes From Ron Paul’s Newsletters.
Oops, forgot to log in. Break me out of jail?
The impasse largely concerned how to pay for extending the tax cut for a full year. The House had rejected the Democrats’ idea to increase the income tax on millionaires, instead passing a one-year extension that covered the cost by spending cuts and new revenue. The Senate’s stopgap measure would raise fees on federally backed mortgages.
And this from Republicans:
Conservatives disliked the payroll tax proposal for several reasons. It would increase the deficit and do little to help the economy, they said. And they raised concerns that because payroll taxes fund Social Security, any reduction would hurt that program’s long-term stability, even though the deal calls for the fund to be replenished. Many argued that their constituents would regard the tax increase as acceptable and would rather see taxes go up than give in to one of Obama’s legislative priorities.
Funny how those Bush tax cuts didn’t have to be paid for, but tax cuts for the middle class, do.
Also apparently their constituents weren’t so thrilled about the tax increase. I understand they were being hammered in their home districts.
WHOA, check out this map of the distribution of mercury pollution:
http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2010/03/17/90576/report-mercury-pollution-from.html
A picture is worth a thousand words.
And, of course, Texas is the worst.
Yikes….my State is in the top 10-Georgia
I know Linda. We’ve gotta win back the State from the Repugs somehow.
Informative, thanks!
Heads Up TOD: Rev Al on Politics Nation will have his first Revvie Awards where he talks about the political stories of the year and the losers and winners. It promises to be fun and entertaining!
Also don’t forget that tonight on ABC 10PM ET/9PM CT The Obamas sit down with Barbara Walters.
What time will POTUS arrive in Hawaii?
I think he will arrive around 6:20pm local time. Hawaii is five or six hours behind the East coast.
Entertaining—-the Revvies. Noticed Alex Wagner never mentions President Obama or chooses him for any outstanding effort this year. I had to look up Maria Theresa Kumar, the gal in the leopard print dress. She founded Voto Latino, a non-profit registering and encouraging political engagement in the Latino community.
Of course, right after I slam A.W., she chooses PBO for Best Political Performance of 2011, as did Richard Wolfe, saying any Repub who thinks that Obama will be easy to defeat is in for a big surprise.
It’s okay; when AW picked Hillary Clinton for working hard on the world stage - not that she didn’t; I applaud Hillary - but then failed to mention she works for the Obama administration, I tuned AW out. Haven’t watched the remainder of my recording of Rev. Al’s show, but maybe I will now, if they went on to give credit where credit is due.
I threw a pillow at the TV JB.
Ha! Good idea!
Wonder who THIS IDIOTS campaign contributors are?
http://thinkprogress.org/green/2011/12/21/394159/on-fox-news-ed-whitfield-denies-any-benefit-to-babies-and-pregnant-women-from-reducing-mercury-levels/
Oh nevermind. He’s from Kentucky. Figures.
http://bottomline.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/12/23/9662937-market-caps-santa-rally-with-strong-gains
Stocks gained 124 pts today….good day’s news
Story from an OFA volunteer about HCR and how it helped her daughter who is now back on her mother’s plan.
It Gives Me Peace of Mind
http://www.whatisworking.com/2011/12/it-gives-me-peace-of-mind.html
Bob Vander Plaats’ Pay-For-Play Scandal: Charged A Million Bucks For Endorsement, Asked Candidates To Drop Out
Earlier this week, Santorum admitted that Vander Plaats approached the campaign with an indirect solicitation of money to help promote his support, but now other sources familiar with the talks between Vander Plaats and GOP candidates are characterizing the tactics as “corrupt.”
“Clearly the endorsement was for sale — without a doubt,” one source told ABC News’ Shushannah Walshe and Michael Falcone, stressing that Vander Plaats had tried to receive money for his support in past election cycles:
Though Santorum did not specify the dollar amount he and Vander Plaats discussed, multiple sources said he was soliciting as much as $1 million from Santorum and other candidate
ABC News has learned that Vander Plaats tried to solicit money for his endorsement during the last presidential cycle too. A former staffer for Mitt Romney’s 2008 presidential bid who is currently unaffiliated with a campaign said Vander Plaats came to them seeking money for his backing if he supported the former Massachusetts governor.
http://thinkprogress.org/
Another great essay by Deaniac - http://www.thepeoplesview.net/2011/12/how-president-obama-orchestrated-john.html
My comment:
Always a great read, Deaniac. Thank you!
What has amazed me most about McConnell, Boehner & Cantor is the expanse of their delusion.
They knew President Obama already had Bush’s rich people tax break on autopilot to end Jan 2013.
They allowed him to then maneuver them into the surely to fail ‘Super Committee’ thereby placing major DoD cuts on autopilot to begin in Jan 2013 while Medicare/Medicaid & Social Security are unscathed.
And, then, pow, wam, bam - President Obama is all over the Nation with the AJA and anyone not suffering from massive delusion would have realized that the last thing they would want to be doing is campaigning from a position of blatantly supporting only the rich and corporations while denying sustenance to the middle class (shrinking every day), the unemployed and 50 % of the electorate residing at or below the poverty line.
But, they did it. By Nov, Boehner and McConnell should have done three things - support payroll tax cut, unemployment insurance extension and a tiny surcharge on the truly wealthy for 1 year. They would have had a bit of disturbance among their fanatics but they would have denied the President and Democrats much of the oxygen in the 2012 campaign.
Instead, they handed the President & Democrats a decades worth of free oxygen tanks and placed themselves in an exceptionally small corner in a very small room packed with a few super rich wimps & a bunch of raving lunatic supporters.
A word to the delusional - it’s a fatal disease.
#YesWeCanDOMoreTogether - We Must! #OutPerform1936
This from the post:
It’s just so freaking obvious that PBO has a long-range vision, and that vision is to neuter the GOP as a viable force, and the Teafascists are there helping him do just that.
Yep!
Happy holidays LL!
#PRESSON
So many great comments, and as usual, a terrific, insightful piece by Deaniac.. A must read for everyone that wants to understand the President’s long game vision. They underestimate this man at their peril.
So true, df. And the quality of the comments from LL, CaliCat, CFWard57 & zizi2 illuminate Deaniac’s excellent analysis.
Happy holidays to you!
#PRESSON
You need to be included in that list
Such important, insightful analysis…sometimes “heady” stuff…but always so well written and thought out. Love TPV! Happy Holidays to you as well, Bobfr….thank you:)
Very kind of you, df. Thank you.
#WeWillPrevail
Hah!
10 Words We Learned in 2011.
Did anyone watch The Revvies ?
Alex Wagner is disgusting.
Michael Steele is delusional
She was awful. I watch Rev. Al every day (he and Martin Bashir), but I think I’m going to have to re-think that, if he keeps having her on - can’t stand her kind of sneakiness.
She called PBO weak again….Yuk
I don’t watch him, but listen to him every day on radio. Not home in time to catch him, but I think he needs a few tweets, which he will read at times on his radio show. I am not liking his choice of regular guests, though I know he likes challenges. But having people on who continue to berate the person he strongly supports, they without real intelligent arguments, does a disservice of to his show of support, IMO. I also don’t like some of his radio guests…..I think he can do better.
I’m guessing he does not have complete control over who appears on his show. It’s MSNBC/the producers choice. Think about it, all of those folks are paid analysts/hosts. If they are being paid, they’ve got to work. I bet if Al had more control he would not be bothered with most of those folks.
Agree, but I have tweeted him numerous times - and Martin - to ask that they not put AW on their shows. I figure it can’t hurt.
They are probably trying to promote her to get more people to watch her horrible show. I don’t like her either. She seems very immature and unserious. They all treat politics like it’s a game and seem to care less how these games impact real people’s lives.
Unlike the Rev…they do not have that boots on the ground experience…so it is a job…
x2
Love the Rev Al’s humor though.
Me, too - and I love Martin Bashir’s humor, as well.
The Rev. Al’s show is full of enjoyable moments - I’m just so glad he’s on, so I can continue to watch at least a little bit of MSNBC these days. Al’s show is insightful, humorous, filled with rapier wit … just love it!
Here is the signing Statement that PBO attached to the HR2205 today.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/12/23/statement-president-hr-2055
Very strongly worded, and necessary - from my POV.
I don’t believe PBO has attached many of these signing statements … but I think I recall GWB did that all the time (probably at the direction of puppeteer Cheney).
Heh, where is Bo ?
BAM! http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2011/12/23/white-house-blocks-south-carolina-voter-id-law/
Nikki is in Big Trouble.
HUGE!
Cenk Uygar is a total a**wipe. Sorry, I just happened to channel surf and stopped on his show on Current TV.
What a total waste of air this guy is. I dunno what Al Gore was thinking when he hired this creep.
He is an egomaniac. His show reminds me of a dorm room with a bunch of unruly freshmen…..
Exactly!
Should write to Gore pointing out what a douchebag this guy is.
Keith olberman hired him, he is the gm of current tv.
That’s right. I forgot about Keith’s role as GM… well, there’s another reason to be disappointed in him. Sigh!
I think Gore made a statement last week that he’s proud of them both. UGH. I’ve never really been an Al Gore fan and in my book he just keeps effing up.
The show is unwatchable.
President Barack Obama and the DNC plan to return $71,600 donated by disgraced former MF Global head Jon Corzine and his wife, a source confirmed to POLITICO.
The money was split between the DNC Victory Fund and the reelection effort.
But Corzine was not just a donor, but also a bundler, including from other MF Global employees.
The source said the other donations from employees will be looked at case by case and, if the facts warrant it, returned.
The news came late on the Friday before Christmas, generally a blackout in terms of headlines, and in this case at the tail end of a strong day for President Obama thanks to the payroll tax holiday extension deal.
Pool-
corzine has been nothing but an embarrassment for dems.
Yup!
And if he had stepped aside instead of running for re-election, any other Dem had at least 50-50 chance of holding the seat meaning Chris Christie would still be a no name in Jersey.
So true SR. The fucker hung on despite the polls showed him to be a loser.
Is he there yet?
Embarrassing display of misplaced values—-the stampedes, tramplings, arrests to get to the new Air Jordans. For shoes?
There was a shooting in the Bay Area. I really don’t get it.
Meltdown on HP over the Signing Statement. It is hysterical.
Good. I’ll laugh without even going there to see the comments.
I only had one comment…This ‹^› ‹(•¿•)› ‹^›
Huge corporations want a tax break too! Enough of this talk about the middle class. Corporations are the ones who are really suffering. It’s so sad, this poor trampled on and disadvantaged segment of our society. They only have multiple billions, not enough to satisfy their greed, don’t you see? Real tears are rolling down my face about their awful predicament. But—-there’s hope! They are gearing up, forming heavy hitting lobbying groups to wage a big tax fight next year, to finally get their “fair share”.
http://discussions.chicagotribune.com/20/chinews/chi-corporations-gear-up-for-major-us-tax-battle-20111223/10
Some people are so desperate. Like those in the blogosphere who were all in a dither and aflutter with the false rumor that Bo was flown back from Hawaii so President Obama could have a shopping photo op with him, at great cost to the taxpayers of course. OMG. Too many dummies in this country who are so hateful that they’ll believe almost anything.
http://www.staradvertiser.com/news/breaking/136107053.html?id=136107053
Don’t forget to watch Barbara Waters’ interview with our President and First Lady tonight at 10PM ET (or tape it if you can)!
To my TOD family and our President: Merry Christmas - Happy Holidays - Feliz Navidad!
I cannot stomach Barbara Walters. It boggles the mind that she can have PBO in her presence, someone with keen wit, an astute mastery over complex policy issues and she asks him insufferable inane questions like “Why do people hate you” - I just can’t.
I just saw that http://www.khon2.com said it will livestream PBO’s arrival. I can’t remember but I thought someone said he’s due to arrive about 6:00 pm Hawaii time. So 11:00 pm EST? Someone correct me if I’m wrong.
Just read the post from Proud Former WH Intern above further up….6:20 local time/11:20 pm EST.
Any word on PBO and recess appointments?
Can you break it down what the signing statement means?
Lawyer-ese is nit my string suit.
Jovi, I hope this helps: http://www.politicususa.com/en/obama-ndaa-signing-statement
…In his signing statement, Obama noted, “I have previously announced that it is the policy of my Administration, and in the interests of promoting transparency in Government, to indicate when a bill presented for Presidential signature includes provisions that are subject to well-founded constitutional objections. The Department of Justice has advised that a small number of provisions of H.R. 2055 raise constitutional concerns.”
A signing statement is something of a public pronouncement a president might make about a bill they are signing into law. They have been used to clarify their positions or elaborate dissent. In this case, Obama is once again noting that he will seek the repeal of measures in the act that prohibit transfers of Guantanamo Bay detainees.
The President’s objections are in part:
In this bill, the Congress has once again included provisions that would bar the use of appropriated funds for transfers of Guantanamo detainees into the United States (section 8119 of Division A), as well as transfers to the custody or effective control of foreign countries unless specified conditions are met (section 8120 of Division A). These provisions are similar to others found in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012. My Administration has repeatedly communicated my objections to these provisions, including my view that they could, under certain circumstances, violate constitutional separation of powers principles. In approving this bill, I reiterate the objections my Administration has raised regarding these provisions, my intent to interpret and apply them in a manner that avoids constitutional conflicts, and the promise that my Administration will continue to work towards their repeal.
Thanks!
I just finished making my gumbo and will be watching tonight…even though I would rather not have to listen to that awful Baba Wawa. I just can’t resist seeing my favorite couple together!
Yum gumbo, I wish I’d thought of that for Xmas dinner.
Hi JoJo,
Gumbo at Xmas is a family tradition. What are you whipping up for Xmas dinner? I’m always curious about what people are having.
Hi Dakota,
My grandparents on both sides of the family were from New Orleans and my grandmother would make dressing with orsters. Its just me and my mom so she is cooking greens and we’re having cornish hens, a beet salad and sweet potatoes.
Peeps, please let us West Coasters know at what point in the Barbara Walters show POTUS and FLOTUS appear so we don’t have to suffer through the rest of the program. TIA.
Meta, I know, right? !!!! Barbara Walters is way, way, WAY past her ‘sell-by’ date. She really gets on my nerves…
She is SO annoying.
First of all, I can’t stand all her affectations. Just so Upper West Side. Whatever. She also has ZERO interesting things to say. She’s 82 and doesn’t really know what’s going on outside her hideous bubble.
I have a delightful 91 year old friend who swears Baba is 90 years old!
LOL!!
I’d believe it. She’s probably had some work done. She just needs to go enjoy the rest of her life on board ship with Newt, Callista and Scary.
Put it on anyways, for ratings!
for those of you trying to keep up with the evil goings on of Sheriff Arpiao, a judge has ruled that any Latinos that have been pulled over or detained by MCSO can join in a class action lawsuit
http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2011/12/23/20111223arpaio-case-judge-rules-destroyed-documents.html
And the video was released of the death of the Army vet that died in MCSO custody….I haven’t seen it, but to read the description is gruesome enough for me.
df, I was just reading up on that. Major breakthrough. I think you guys are going to see some major shifts.
Don’t anybody tell me that PBO hasn’t brought change to this country. INDISPUTABLE.
I think the ground finally feels like it’s moving under my feet…in a good way! SO many things happening, in rapid succession….voting rights challenged,DOJ coming down hard on Arpiao, judges ruling fairly, redistricting maps more evenly apportioned.My mind reels…..people are beginning to finally wake from their fog and are paying attention again. I feel something big in my bones….in a good way! I hope I’m right
Change is coming to America!!
df, I think PBO pushes people’s buttons big time and they are driven to insane idiocy. Those who have any sense of history and decency are standing up for our principles. So I have faith that even though we see so much derision and disrespect for our POTUS, make no mistake - the tides of change have come. They are lapping up on our shores and lighting up all those people who are unconscious and who spew horrific values. They are being challenged like never before. {{{{PROUD}}}}
Amen! They know it’s coming…that’s why they fight so hard for the status quo .
EXACTLY. So we need to have lots of patience and take this as our moment of opportunity. Seize the moment. We’ll all be watching!!
That’s an excellent news df. I look forward to the day this racist punk is frog-marched to his own concentration camp.
Thanks, amk. I await that day!
Thus far, looks like only Mitt & Ron Paul have been certified for the VA primary. Gingrich’s petitions have yet to be examined. Perry’s were examined and found to lack sufficient qualifying sigs. Bachmann, Huntsman & Santorum didn’t even bother to submit petitions — yet they want to “lead.” Please…
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/virginia-politics/post/perry-disqualified-from-va-primary-ballot/2011/12/23/gIQA3BZNEP_blog.html?hpid=z2
Typical rethug incompetence.
Thanks for posting this. I was astounded when I saw this in a CNN News Alert; it speaks to the ineptitude and indolence of the Republican field. These people are traversing the country garnering national exposure spewing malicious and divisive rhetoric in debates. The significant majority of them are attempting to bolster their personal brands, or get a book deal, it’s appalling and infuriating. Cain opted to “suspend” his campaign enabling him to continue to have access to his campaign’s treasury. Bachmann has been completely negligent in her role as a Minnesota representative yet wants us to really believe that she is deserving of being the president. This is insane, completely and totally. There are no words………………………
Department of Education Awards $200 Million to Seven States to Advance K-12 Reform
The U.S. Department of Education announced today that seven states -Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania- will each receive a share of the $200 million in Race to the Top Round 3 (RTT3) fund to advance targeted K-12 reforms aimed at improving student achievement.
“These seven states are now among 22 Race to the Top winners spread out across the country that are investing in key education reforms to prepare more students for college and careers,” U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said. “Race to the Top has been a pivotal program that has generated more progress in improving our nation’s education system over the last three years than we’ve seen over the last decade. We look forward to partnering with these states to continue this important work.”
http://blogs.suntimes.com/sweet/2011/12/illinois_finally_wins_race_to_.html
6:25PM local time
PBO arrives at Hawaii, Hickam Air Force Base, Honolulu
That is 8:25AM Pacific time and 11:25 Eastern time.
So PBO’s got a couple more hours in flight.
Whoopsie, should read
8:25PM Pacific and 11:25PM Eastern.
Thank you, meta! So glad I don’t have to stay up until 11:25
Good evening TODville!! When I was looking at the pics of PBO signing the tax ext. It looks as if he is thinking about the repugs, laughing to himself and thinking ha ha ha BITCHES!!!!!!(in a condecending voice).
I thought the same thing - in both the pic in the Oval Office and when he’s walking to AF1, he looks like he’s chuckling to himself about how he defeated the GOP so blatantly, instead of in an non-obvious way, like usual.
This breaks down the signing statement-
http://thehill.com/blogs/on-the-money/budget/201245-obama-says-he-wont-be-bound-by-guantanamo-gun-control-portions-of-omnibus
So, why is huff puff mad? Jeesh!
huckmuck doesn’t need any reason to go apeshit crazy. Forget it jovie. No one will remember their hussy-fit next week.
Our4thEstate Bobfr
And, furthermore, House & Senate #KochServants, #PresObama just told you to stuff it on Gitmo & other Omnibus garbage - http://t.co/zmxXfO2I
For the next 11 months, the only question for the GOP is just how much more of a record do they want President Obama and the Democrats to set in 2012 than the one FDR led in 1936.
#OutPerform1936
AWESOME tweet:
@7im
If you take Ron Paul at his word that he’s not a racist, then ask yourself what kind of man profits from peddling racism to others?
Brilliant.
meta, that is a awesome question, any answer to that tweet ? Ron Paul and his son have worried me about what kind of people they are.
Aloha Mr. President.
Merry Christmas Chips and TODers, I wish nothing but the best for all and their loved-ones this holiday season.
Thanks to everyone for making this site my refuge, and because of this site I overcame my fear and joined the Twitter universe.
Chips, you’ve been our gift all year long, thank you dear friend!
it’s starting!!!!!
Does anyone have a live stream?
Nice intro by Bawa. She’s hoping this interview with the Obamas becomes a holiday tradition. Never seen the White House looking more beautiful… Sweet. Michelle looks lovely in that dress
.
Yeah a tradition she’d love to see end in 2012, at least with the Obama’s. She really is an irrelevant dinosaur…
Nah — I got the sense Bawa would like it to continue for a while yet ….
The questions are meh, but POTUS and FLOTUS are sweet and genuine. Very, very cute.
FLOTUS looks amazing! BW is actually being more respectful than I thought she would. I guess at 82 she realizes it’s better to go out on a good note than a hateful one. But she’s still got 45 more minutes to go, so this could change.
Aww, I think they just implied that Sasha no longer believes in Santa!! LOL, they grow up so fast!
BW was more tolerable than last year. I remember she asked PBO if he cursed and when was the last time he cursed. Like wtf? LOL.
Yes, I too feel the ground shifting…..the far right is fighting it, but it is happening. I always think of what MLK said, and I thought about it and wrote it about on election day, Nov. 2008. “The arc of history bends long, but it bends toward justice.” We are seeing it happen, in spite of temper tantrums and breath holding. It takes work, but we are seeing that President Obama has not been fighting this battle alone.
What happened to the part in Barbara Walters interview where she asked PBO if he was a “mediocre President”? Ha! events overtook them? The edited that part out? Dumbasses.
Actually, I really liked that interview and seeing inside the WH!
Me too. Surprised at how decent BW behaved. POTUS and FLOTUS were fabulous, as usual. Witty, charming, and beautiful. Those are the three words I’d use to describe the First Couple.
No she heavily edited the original interview to produce the syrupy pap. Last week she was promoting clips where she asked Pres. Obama all manner of GOP talking point nonsense, including “Are you a Mediocre President?” Today none of that is in sight. I guess they realize the way the political winds are blowing and she wants to maintain access well into the next FIVE years. She’s no fool
Wow, I didn’t know that. Well, PBO wins again, LOL.
Yes, she chopped it down for sure and repeated her GOP points all over the place before today. I always like to see them together though but I couldn’t take looking at BW for long, whew she’s had some work done. In the past, she would show her interview with him alone first and then both of them together. I wish she had aired his portion because he called out the Repugs very well despite her questioning and after today’s events, it actually would make the GOP look worse. I think BW cut it down intentionally because it would make PBO look vindicated. Instead she just says that his polls go up and down. I’m actually upset that she edited it like that…..anything not to let the GOP look bad. If the tables were turned, she would rubbing it in the President’s face.
Thank you. Glad I wasn’t the only who noticed the drastic change in tone from the clips she showed before. PBO will also lay the corporate media to waste before he finishes up hi two terms. The won’t know what hit them. Dumbasses
Agreed!
I agree with you Jovie. The White House was just beautiful. And the love and respect between POTUS and FLOTUS were just wonderful. They held hands the whole interview, didn’t they? I didn’t focus on Barbara Walters, I focus of the First Couple.
I actually enjoyed the interview - loved seeing and hearing our POTUS and FLOTUS!
I enjoyed the interview, I don’t think it lasted long enough. I can sit and watch POTUS and FLOTUS for hours. How about the next five years they get Oprah to do the Christmas interview.
Honestly I didn’t want to hear anything about the Republicans or flat taxes, or Mitt or Newt.
I agree folks, the ground is shifting in the direction towards justice and fairness to those that have been playing by the rules while the very rich have been cheating and are given all the breaks. People are waking up to what is truly important.. a government that works, is for the people, and fair wages.
I was watching YouTube, enjoying the Four Tops, and saw this comment, to the song “Something About You”:
“SOMETHING about this SONG. as MOTOWN is….unexplainable…other than GOD to be the GLORY in JESUS name. but the ENERGY of this MUSIC is as satisfying TODAY as it was THEN. something about OBAMA…love him. Something about MOTOWN…LOVE IT. ALLLLLLLLL ABOUT GOD ALMIGHTYYYYYYYYY.”
Haha, I love that she put “something about OBAMA…..love him”. Towards the end of the song the Tops sing, …..something about you, shakes me all up inside, you’re a real heartbraker,…………… you’re a smooth operator, and it thrills me to call your name.
I feel safe in saying a lot of you “naughty mat” ladies will concur
Have a good night all ! Going for one more glance at my “smooth operator, heartbraker” Presidente 
Now Newt’s asking about Ron Paul:
“I think that Congressman Paul has to explain his own situation and how he could have had a decade of newsletters that had his name on it that he apparently wasn’t aware of,” Gingrich said.
“I think that somebody should say to him ‘OK, how much money did you make from the newsletters?’ These things are really nasty, and he didn’t know about it? Wasn’t aware of it? But he’s sufficiently ready to be president? It strikes me it raises some fundamental questions about him.”
http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/23/us-usa-campaign-gingrich-idUSTRE7BJ29720111223
I gotta say, I can’t argue with Leroy on that!
Is he ever capable of making a statement without using the term, “fundamental”??
Or radical when talking abt PBO.
Just like VP Biden has “literally”…
No. It fools the “not so smart ones” into thinking he’s highly intellectual…and all Historian like
Ha! Meta, I think you’ve hit on the basis for a new drinking game! Glub, glub, glub!
Fundamentally: Newt Gingrich’s Favorite Word
====================================
By now, we’ve all become familiar with Newt Gingrich’s habit of using a few choice adverbs to make the things he says sound just a bit more intelligent to his listeners. Profoundly. Deeply. Frankly. But none of them are as vital to the Gingrich lexicon as fundamentally (along with its cousin, the adjective fundamental). While this appears to be Gingrich’s favorite word in the English language, you could also argue that he uses the word so often, and so reflexively, that it’s become virtually meaningless to him. In a single 2008 address to the American Enterprise Institute, he used the words fundamentally or fundamental a total of eighteen times.
Newt Gingrich, you might say, is the world’s most hard-core fundamentalist.
http://nymag.com/daily/intel/2011/11/fundamentally-newt-gingrichs-favorite-word.html
Ed Henry is tweeting that PBO has landed.
Ed Henry went to hawaii? YUKE! YUKE! All I need to hear now is Todd and Tapper or that O’Donnell woman went. YUKE!!!!!!!!!!!!
@petermaercbs PETER MAER
Aloha. Pres Obama arrives Hawaii. Just under 9 hr AF 1 Flight.
Ok the interview was a good one, but PBO really needs to stop using the word “lazy!” It just does not have any good connotations. It’s like “bitter.” It doesn’t matter how you say it or what context you say it in, it just only invites needless criticism.
Can anyone answer the big question? Is BO with PBO in Hawaii?
Yep Just got in http://yfrog.com/odys7xj
Woops…here is BO—-that was B.O LOL
Aaccck Here is Bo pics http://yfrog.com/kka83pcj
That’s one adorable dog!
Yes he went . See the tweet below
Bo the First dog went to Hawaii too this time. Here’s a press tweet.
Just like his Master was doing laps around the Repubs….
So glad to see Bo made the trip. I know FLOTUS and the girls will be happy to see Bo, and happy to see POTUS too. Hope the Obamas have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
You hit it right
I missed the arrival, but found this
http://www.staradvertiser.com/news/breaking/Obama_likely_to_arrive_early_tomorrow_morning.html?id=112333479
This is from December 23, 2010. ——-this always happens to me too.
He’s arrived! Khakis and button down shirt in full effect. Don’t see Bo yet….
Damn — that was from LAST year!
It’s easy to get confused because PBO wear’s the same favorite check shirt and khaki pants. He needs a Christmas wardrobe gift.
Thank you so much for posting that, PJ! I missed it….thank you pilots for getting our POTUS there safe and sound! He’s home.
http://yfrog.com/kka83pcj picture of Bo on AF1! He gets to play in surf too!
Cute
Obama arrives
http://www.staradvertiser.com/news/breaking/136144943.html?id=136144943
Don’t read the comments. They are full of criticism of him spending too much money getting to Hawaii, calling him “The King Obama” or the “Emperor..” It’s horrible. I feel so sad that the ordinary people don’t really bother to get the facts
Betsy, the only thing I would ask these people who are making all this critcism about too much money being spent by King Obama getting to Hawaii, did you complain when King G.W. Bush, or Emperor G.W. were spending money gong on “all” his vacations? We know these are not ordinary people,these are idiots who dislike this President and they would complain if the President and his family just went around the corner for a vacation. Look at how they wanted to make a big deal out of Bo being on the Christmas card, or POTUS taking Bo shopping.
Only a few haters in the comments. Most were thrilled and happy.
Video of President Obama arriving in Hawaii. The report says that Bo stayed in D.C.
http://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/story/16385224/obama-to-travel-to-hawaii-for-delayed-vacation?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=6578935
No Bo was on the flight. The WH media reported it. here’s a pic one journo took of Bo on Airforce 1 http://yfrog.com/kka83pcj
Zizi you’re right. Once again the reporting at TOD is better than the TV.
Here’s the video of the White House #40dollars campaign
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_BfblBkdCY&w=560&h=315
I don’t know how came up with this $40 dollars idea but it was a great idea. Some people will say what is $40 dollars? Only those who have never been down to there last dime, and have to wait till they get paid again will say something like that. Forty dollars can put gas in your car, it can get a family some grocery, it can help pay a bill, etc., etc. Of course forty dollars wouldn’t mean very much to Romney and his friends, heck Romney makes ten thousand bets. But to the real people forty dollars a week does matter.
Landed. Looking fresh and relaxed…
http://www.daylife.com/photo/0de838Dczjawp?__site=daylife&q=obama
Another good one… Aloha Mr. President!
http://www.daylife.com/photo/0bkw3Iaar62Br?__site=daylife&q=obama
A greeting from Santa’s little helper..
http://www.daylife.com/photo/00kf0ndfKW1Ce?__site=daylife&q=obama
Nice - I love how he still stops to greet all the welcomers, even though he must have been desperate to get to his family and friends.
Agreed. That’s what makes him so special.
I hope he got some sleep on the plane. The jet lag for that 9 hr flight to Hawaii is no joke.
Why is everyone up so late?!
if not for reading here, i wouldn’t know any of this - well, maybe a distorted, limited version. TOD is the best news and information source there is! thank you, all, for all the links and pics and news … and comments, of course!! precious and beautiful!!!
Thank You for keeping this treasure going through the holidays, too, Chipsticks!! amazing ….
Our4thEstate Bobfr
America - #PeddlersOfFear -corporate, religious or political - have 1 goal - your giving them your $. #beingpoor is the result. #RejectFear
You will see many #PeddlersOfFear posts in the days/weeks to come. Please feel free, as always, to not merely re-tweet but build your own messages about the greatest scam, for not just centuries, but throughout all human history, of the skill of a few to make $$$, kill countless others, and be the scourge of our species because they practice the art of #PeddlersOfFear.
#YesWeCanDOMoreTogether - We Must!
Beautiful, Bob. You outdo yourself each time.
For the first time in 42 years, Libya is set to celebrate the anniversary of its independence.
The united Libyan Kingdom was formed on 24 December 2025 under King Idris.
However, after Col Muammar Gaddafi seized power in 1969, only the date of his coup was allowed to be marked.
Celebrations are planned in Tripoli, including lunch for several thousand, spread on what organisers say could stretch to 2km (1.6 miles) of tables along Tripoli’s seafront.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/mobile/world-middle-east-16325383
Just heard the Newt did not have enough signatures to be in VA ballot. These people are a JOKE!!
Looks like we’ll be facing Romney and Christie.
“These people are a JOKE!!”
You are right on the mark. I am convinced that Perry and Gingrich are running for Comedian-in-Chief. Perry can be excused because numerically-challenged.
“Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich failed to collect enough signatures to appear on the Virginia primary ballot, the Republican Party of Virginia announced Saturday morning, leaving the longtime Virginia resident without a place on the state’s ballot and raising questions about his campaign’s organization.”
Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha. *Wipes tears*
Wait, what? He lives in Virginia and he couldn’t get enough signatures?
“Gingrich and his wife Callista have resided in McLean, Virginia, a wealthy suburb of Washington, for several years. Callista is active in Northern Virginia organizations, including playing the French horn in a Fairfax, Virginia band.”
But I could have sworn I heard it reported that this was a done deal?
“On Wednesday, Gingrich ensured a crowd of supporters he had met the threshold for appearing on the ballot, saying he had gathered anywhere from 12,000-14,000 signatures.”
Newt you slay me! Baghdad Bob has got nothing on you.
“Gingrich’s spokesman said Wednesday the effort to secure a spot on the Virginia ballot was meant to showcase the campaign’s ground game.”
LOL! Cough, choke, gasp, snort.
http://www.cnn.com/2011/12/24/politics/gop-virginia-primary/index.html
HONOLULU — President Obama arrived here late Friday to join his vacationing family in Kailua.
Air Force One touched down at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickham just before 6 p.m. local time (that’s 11 p.m. on the East Coast) after a nine-hour flight that included an off-the-record stop by the president in the press section of the plane. His motorcade reached the home where the family is staying at 6:45 p.m.
Bo the dog was also spotted running around aboard the plane.
First lady Michelle Obama and daughters Malia and Sasha have been here since Saturday. The whole family is expected to leave on Jan. 2.
HONOLULU — After a brief stop in Kailua to pick up his family, President Obama headed to Morimoto Restaurant here for dinner.
The restaurant is part of Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s empire and is at the other end of Waikiki from the hotel where the traveling press are staying.
-Jennifer Epstein
So, Harry wants to get both the FAA and Highway bill dine by January 31st, before they expire.
Great! Right.
But, the senate is in session for 7 days and the House only 6, for that month!
This is shameful!