reposted with permission

cross-posted @ This Week With Barack Obama

                               
                       michelle and barack leaving after watching their daughter's soccer game

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Ahhh, this read from politico, made me remember that one song from the wonderful musical, Music Man.

McCain got trouble, though not in River City, but say, his base or supporters or organizers or everyone?

While we watched the longest primary ever, one thing is true, during this time we built a great ground game in all 50 states.  And that is the gold standard from the primary going forward.

As we sloughed through each state, McCain had his "presumptiveness" in February.  Those that challenged him, Romney and Huckabee, bowed down and got the hell out.  They should have since Romney was paying for each primary and Huckabee was on a wing and a prayer.  But nonetheless, they turned out to be good Republicans and made up with McCain, publicly, and have been campaigning for him since.

So, why is McCain in a funk?  Various reasons.  I think he watched the Democratic Primaries and thought beating up on each other was enough to skate in, but now he has found out that Barack Obama is "that formidable candidate" that he just can't quite figure out.

It starts with Ed Rollins on morning joe last week, the video is here, not only did he blast McCain's Campaign but compared it to the failed campaigns of Phil Graham and Bob Dole.  OUCH.  Yes, this campaign is being run by that crew.

"McCain's campaign seems not to have a game plan. I don't see a consistent message," said Ed Rollins, a veteran of Republican presidential campaigns. "As someone who has run campaigns, this campaign is not running smoothly. But none of this matters if they get their act together."

Indeed, some Republican officials who spoke to Politico noted that there is still time for the campaign to find its footing and that no campaign is without its detractors. But the bulk of those interviewed expressed serious concern about what has appeared to be an aimless campaign so far, one that has failed to take advantage of a four-month head start on Democrats and has showed little sign of gaining traction.

I think this is why we see the McCain Campaign jump on Obama over this "Wes Mess", and continuing to whine about it, while his campaign is running on lack of money and lack of the basics, like grassroots organization?

"Here is where the problem is: We had a nomination gap between when McCain was nominated and the Democratic race completed," a swing state Republican Party chairman said. "I think [campaign manager] Rick Davis and his team did not have an understanding of how the grass-roots, organizational part of the party works. They did not use what the [Republican National Committee] had done, or how groups like the [National Rifle Association] could have helped the McCain campaign locally.

"They are just now opening up campaign operations in most states. The RNC was ready to go in most states in March," the state chairman continued, listing off grievances ranging from the campaign's "dictating" the members of various RNC committees to the state party's having been "threatened" that, though McCain "couldn't afford not to play in our state," the campaign would not "recommend us for resources" if the state party did not abide by its requests.

Ummmm.  When you are perceived to not knowing what to do and you come in and tell or threatened seasoned grassroots workers what the deal is, of course, you are getting no harmony.

Another thing, McCain had four months on us.  You mean to tell me they  are just opening up statewide offices?  McCain could have used this time to energize his base, listen to grievances, etc.  The only thing I can surmise is the lack of money to not move ahead, and this should have started when Huckabee got OUT.

"What's the political strategy when you allow your opponent, who has just had a grueling four months, time to catch their breath, regroup, fundraise and start to define himself?" asked a Republican strategist who helped lead a past presidential campaign. "It's politics 101."

So, what has McCain been doing?  Taking weekends off, of course, when he should have been organizing, campaigning vigorously, raising money and shoring up his base.  All that leisure is starting to anger the troops.

"Rather than trying to pull me in and make me an intricate part of the team they just told me what they wanted done, and said if you don't play ball we won't play ball," one state chairman said.

Those chairmen noted that the conservative base is far less riled, and significantly smaller, than its liberal counterpart. For this reason, GOP leaders generally believe they will have to be more efficient to overcome Obama's advantages.

"You are going to hear a lot of complaints from state party chairmen," one chairman said of his colleagues. "They are used to the Rove-Mehlman model. They were very good at finding the place they needed to win, down to the county they needed in Ohio.

Well, as much as we are in dissention, we are nowhere close to all that is going on with McCain.

If McCain can not energize his base, understand the basic fundamentals of grassroots organizing, underwhelming in the money game, what is his message to get folks not only to the polls but to vote for him?

Keep our eyes on the final PRIZE, in between arguing, that is.

::

Tip the Obama Jar, Here
Get Involved Here
For Inspiration:  Yes.We.Can!!!

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icebergslim1047 (at) gmail (dot) com

cross-posted @ This Week With Barack Obama, reposted with permission

                                         john and cindy mccain in bogata, columbia

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Now this is how you get the Bush Tax Cuts to work for you.

After reading another juicy joint from politico, we have The McCains and trying to weave through their money thing.

I don't see how anyone at this JUNCTURE can point the finger at The Obamas for anything in the realm of elitism.  Not when you have The McCains with what 6, 7, 8 homes?

In recent years, a Politico analysis found, the McCain family appears to have tapped its fortune liberally.

While Cindy McCain, her dependent children and the trusts and companies they control made as much as $29 million - and likely substantially more - from her family's business interests from 2004 through last year, data from the Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Senate, U.S. Office of Government Ethics and the Center for Responsive Politics also reveals that they spent $11 million purchasing five condominiums for the family, hired additional household help and racked up progressively larger credit cards bills almost every year.

Their credit card bills peaked between January 2007 and May 2008, during which time Cindy McCain charged as much as $500,000 in a single month on one American Express card and $250,000 on another, while one of their two dependent children had an AmEx card with a monthly balance as large as $50,000.

OK, the five condos do not include two other homes, and hey doesn't everyone in America have AMEX Cards and can spend up to 500K a month!!!  No biggie, not when you have accessible money like this, swiping the good old card, doesn't mean a thing.

Remember when John McCain's campaign was on exhaust fumes last year?  Well his travel sure wasn't or did you expect John to travel in coach?

Likewise, John McCain's presidential campaign benefited from Cindy McCain's fortune, using a legal loophole to travel the country in a jet owned by her company for cut-rate fares.

In fact, the cost of using Cindy's private jet to get around only cost:

For five of those months, the plane was used almost exclusively for campaign-related purposes, those records show.

Mr. McCain's campaign paid a total of $241,149 for the use of that plane from last August through February, records show. That amount is approximately the cost of chartering a similar jet for a month or two, according to industry estimates.

Yes, real perks when you are the ultra rich.

Remember all the fuss on Michelle Obama's 148.00 dress she wore on The View?  A dress she plucked off the rack?  For many that is still pricey, but there will be no plucking off the racks for Cindy.  No that just won't do.

For instance, in the June issue of Vogue magazine, Cindy McCain said she favors suits made by the German designer Escada, which typically retail for around $3,000-a-pop. If she becomes first lady, she told Vogue she may switch to an American designer, possibly Carolina Herrera, whose suits are comparably pricey.

Now we all expect our potential first ladies to dress appropriately, I mean we don't want them looking like dish rags, but who in American can afford suits from Escada that start at 3K a pop?  Yeah, I thought this would put you on pause.

NOBODY I KNOW SHOPS AT ESCADA.

Sorry, don't know anyone that does.  You got to be in that "ultra rich" area to afford luxury clothing, yes that is what it is.

Now back to real estate, Cindy purchases three condos, and two in the same building.  The condos are priced at 700K, 830K and 4.7M but it does not stop there:

Cindy McCain, through another family corporation, spent about $4.7 million in 2004 and 2008 on two condos in an exclusive building in Coronado, Calif., an affluent San Diego suburb noted for its high percentage of military retirees.

And it continues....

Through her trusts and other corporate entities, Cindy McCain also owns another three properties: a scenic ranch outside Sedona, Arizona, where John McCain has entertained staff, prospective running mates and political reporters; a three-bedroom Arlington, Virginia, condo that's been John McCain's Washington-area residence since 1993 and the La Jolla, California, condo on which the back taxes were due.

This real estate puzzle reads like the who's who of the rich and famous.  It really does.  With all this property comes staff, as in those that pick your shit up and clean up after you.

The McCains increased their budget for household employees from $184,000 in 2006 to $273,000 in 2007, according to John McCain's tax returns.

I don't know about you, but John McCain with Cindy surely has no reason to call the Obamas elitists.  Not when you are running around spending up to 500K a month on AMEX cards, paying upwards of 300K for staff in all of your palatial residences, a corporate jet at the touch of your hand, and clothing only at couture boutiques where suits start at $3500.00.

What about the Americans who are hurting with lack of health care, food costs soaring, gas at the pump is off the chain, jobs are leaving this country, lack of jobs, tuition costs unaffordable, losing their homes and those that can not cover their bills; I don't know anyone in America who can relate to the McCains extravagances.

I am tired of the same old type of candidate, who is ultra rich, ascending to the office of the presidency.  What change can they bring?  They have been fed with the silver spoon of trust funds, elitism, and prestige.  This is not the average American who has to get up every day and work to make ends meet.

John and Cindy McCain should not utter another word about Barack and Michelle Obama.  They never had to work hard for anything; it has always been given to them, from money to name recognition.

It is time for change, not keeping the same.

cross-posted @ This Week With Barack Obama, posted with diarist permission

                             
                                                      barack and hillary in unity, nh

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                                                       barack and hillary in unity

June 30, 2008:  End of Month

It is that time.  

What did you say?  Yes, that time to donate.  The Obama Campaign is not taking any public funding, so he won't get the grand total of 84M after the convention in August.  This campaign is totally depending on us, to fuel its current existence and through the November election.

While we are shedding away the primaries, which ended the first week of June, now we must revitalize and get engaged for the general election.  Remember the DNC, DCCC, DSCC also are depending on our donations.  Why?  The DNC must put on a convention, as in paying for it, and are in the trenches with Obama.  The DCCC must fund its congressional candidates, especially in some tough battleground districts.  The DSCC must fund its senatorial candidates, especially in some tough states, if we want to expand the senate.

All this must be done now, not yesterday, but now.

The Obama Campaign has some free giveaways with your donation.

For a 30.00 donation, you will receive a 100% cotton envirObama shirt.  Click on the image.

For a 30.00 donation, you will receive an Obama Logo shirt.  Click on the image.

For a 15.00 donation, you will receive an Obama Car Magnet.  Click on the image.

For the artist in you, the "Yes We Can" poster by Antar Dayal.  Part of the continuing artist series from the Obama Campaign.  If you don't like these items, shop at the Obama Store.  The only campaign with continuous items at an affordable price.

And donate to the DNC here, the DCCC here and the DSCC here.  We have good candidates, but they won't be elected without money.  Simple as that, donate.

                           
                                            Obama's speech at the 25th NALEO Conference

audio/video

Video speaking in Albuquerque, NM; John McCain webad against Obama, "Words"; Audio from Rolling Stone cover article; Obama with Ed Gordon from Black Enterprise; 25th Annual NALEO Conference; NALEO speech with Q&A;  John McCain's speech and Q&A at NALEO Conference; Change that Works for you Pittsburgh, PA; David Plouffe, Obama Campaign Manager, on Our Strategy; Change that Works for You, Las Vegas, NV; McCain, Obama and the Latino Vote; Obama Courts the Working-Class Vote; McCain Keeps Quiet on Weekends; Clinton, Obama Unite in Unity, N.H.; Analysis: Obama Edging Toward Center; Candidate's Wives Put Under the Microscope; Independent Voters Key to Winning N.H.; Obama's Coattails for Republicans

Obama supports supreme court reversal of gun ban
For Obama, a pragmatist's shift toward center
Obama tells women he supports equal pay
Way up north, Democrat targets Alaskan icon
Muslim Voters Detect a Snub From Obama
Obama Road Map to White House is a Nationwide Tour

                                 
                                       michelle and former governor jeanne shaheen

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Kristol: Bush Might Bomb Iran If He `Thinks Senator Obama's Going To Win'
Michelle Obama's strategy to woo Clinton supporters and shape her role as First Lady
Corzine profile rises in Obama camp
Year of the Black Vote?
Obama kept Law Review balanced
The Democrats' Lieberman Problem
Obama says world not doing enough on Zimbabwe

                     
                                              obama at the springs preserve in las vegas, nv

polls

USA Today/Gallup Poll; Rasmussen New Mexico Poll; Rasmussen Pennsylvania Poll; PPP Michigan Poll; Zogby South Florida Poll; SUSA Indiana Poll; LA Times/Bloomberg National Poll; SUSA Missouri Poll; Quinnipiac University/Wall Street Journal/Washingtonpost.Com Poll for Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin; Franklin and Marshall National Poll; Texas Lyceum Poll; Rasmussen Mississippi Poll; Arizona State University Poll; SUSA Kansas Poll; AP/Yahoo Poll; Fairleigh Dickinson University PublicMind New Jersey Poll; Time Magazine National Poll; SUSA Ohio Poll; Rasmussen Texas Poll

Missouri Sen. McCaskill emerging as key Obama supporter
Larry Johnson's Strange Trip
Obama's New Energy Website
Obama's aim: 14 Bush states and local races
McCain and Obama on Patriotism
AFL-CIO endorses Barack Obama

                                 
                                         obama at the flying star cafe in albuquerque, nm

shoutouts:

We yield the floor to Color of Change by Prometheus 6; From our undercover agent in the Florida Obama campaign by Prometheus 6;Technology Companies Won't Hire/Train Workers Over 40, Says NYT, One Big Reason, Healthcare Costs by architek; Delaware Chooses Offshore Wind Instead of Offshore Oil. by Delaware Dem; DNC Sues To Stop McCain's Gaming Of Public Finance System by Adam B; "Obama is a Muslim," Origin Revealed by ourhispanicvoices; Frank Rich says the Emperor Has No Clothes by teacherken; Obama's Middle Eastern/European Tour by psericks; Newsweek: John McCain defaults on California home by nokona; Early VP Shopping with Barack by Maureen; Major Automaker To End Gasoline Car Production by dotcommodity; Simple Credit Card Advice For Everyone, Yes YOU! by Lava20; Educating Ralph Nader on Obama's "Blackness" by Muzikal203; Barack Obama Talks Him Some Serious White! by JeffLieber; Meet Auma Obama (W/Video). by rapcetera; Hawaii is first in the nation by Keone Michaels; State Polling Summary: June 16 - June 21 by fladem; Reality In The To Criticize Or Not To Criticize Debate by Chris Bowers

Conservatives Who Ripped Obama For `Race-Baiting' Now Silent In Wake Of Norquist's Racial Remark
Caroline Kennedy's new profile: Politics
Obama criticizes McCain on immigration
Pastor Who Officiated at Jenna Bush Wedding Launches Pro-Obama Website
A Candidate Runs to a G.O.P. Chorus of `Don't'
Obama aims to wrest West from GOP
Rap, rock, classical music to Obama's ears

obama with MIT president, susan hockfield and GM chairman, rick wagoner in pittsburgh

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icebergslim's last word:  unity
As many know, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton campaigned together for the first time in Unity, NH.  Showing solidarity within the Democratic Party.

Much of this solidarity has already started to move Obama's way by the recent polling, nationally and statewide, see under polls above.  While this unity was shown publicly, behind the scenes the bartering is hard and heavy.  First the Obamas maxed to Clinton for 4600.00 and the Clintons shot one back atcha to the Obama Campaign.  All this came about after Clinton introduced Obama to her fundraisers in Washington, D.C.

Apparently, the meeting seemed to go smooth.  Of course, there may still be angry folks, but all in all many realize that we are Democrats and if we want to win in November, we must forge alliance to make that happen.  Though some in the media are reporting, "no unity", this former Clinton backer promises to raise 10M for Obama.

After a hard fought campaign, of course the patches are rough and edgy, but we all realize that this is the Democratic Moment to seize and take back the White House, and increase our congress prospects.  To hang onto being angry, in the end just won't do.  It solves nothing and we can lose everything.

So, in this sentiment, I hope someone can clue Bill Clinton and Ralph Nader in on this.  First on the list is our former president who is apparently having a hard time accepting his wife's defeat, Bill Clinton.  All this utter nonsense, supposedly coming from him is not helpful or productive.  In fact, it makes our former president look more comical than the elder statesman of the party he is.  This type of distraction is not helpful for the party or unity, and I hope someone informs him of this.

Ralph Nader.  Who does not know him?  Mr. Consumer Advocate.  But recently with his outrageous rant about "Obama trying to 'talk white'" was straight out of the book of Geraldine Ferraro.  Nader must have read her blue print and decided to be the Geraldine Ferraro of the general election.

What I don't understand about Nader is that his explanation of this is totally a generational gap.  He tries to insist that Obama is not speaking like Jesse Jackson, lacks that hubris, when in fact Barack Obama is not a civil rights advocate.  Never was and never will be.  Which brings us back to how backwards Nader is, especially in his assumption of lumping all African-Americans in a bowl, which clearly is a no can do.  For the record Obama denounce this silliness of Nader and the claim on "white talk".

Nader has been laughed at and obliterated for his comments and Bill Clinton either get on the bus or watch history and his legacy pass him by.

Both have a choice, but the public has a choice too, that is to ignore them both.  Sometimes making someone irrelevant is the best thing one can do.  Just brush this dirt off your shoulder, definitely Nader and hopefully not Bill Clinton.

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Clark hits McCain's military credentials

Gen. Wesley Clark, acting as a surrogate for Barack Obama's campaign, invoked John McCain's military service against him in one of the more personal attacks on the Republican presidential nominee this election cycle.

Clark said that McCain lacked the executive experience necessary to be president, calling him "untested and untried" on CBS' "Face the Nation." And in saying so, he took a few swipes at McCain's military service.

After saying that "I certainly honor his service as a prisoner of war. He was a hero to me and to hundreds of thousands and millions of others in the armed forces, as a prisoner of war," he added that these experiences in no way qualify McCain to be president in his view:
"He has been a voice on the Senate Armed Services Committee. And he has traveled all over the world. But he hasn't held executive responsibility. That large squadron in the Navy that he commanded -- that wasn't a wartime squadron," Clark said.

"I don't think getting in a fighter plane and getting shot down is a qualification to become president."  continue

What Obama means for business
Tastes in sports, food divide McCain and Obama
McCain Aide Regrets Terror Comment
Republicans recycle Clinton's Obama barbs
Obama To Hammer McCain On Offshore Drilling "Gimmick"
In L.A., the stars line up for Obama
Obama disagrees with high court on child rape case

well the above slideshow does make one smile, but our main person to support is barack obama, our democratic nominee.  it is also important to support and fund the dnc, who as obama is not taking pac and federal lobbyist dollars.  unity is wonderful, but faux unity won't work.  so, while things are being worked out, i hope hillary clinton has good faith to release her delegates, understand the importance of campaigning for barack, won't demand her name is released on the convention floor for potus, and not asking for outrageous air time at the convention.  this is a sore point, but this is what is being demanded and right now we have one boss who won this primary and that is barack obama.  we all want unity, but we also don't want this continued drama.  who needs it?  i hope everyone attended the unity for change meetings, this weekend.  i did and it was right in my neighborhood!!!!  there is real hunger for change out here and we are four months away from voting for it...keep the spirit up and remember to focus on obama and not the drama...

::

Tip the Obama Jar, Here
Get Involved Here
For Inspiration:  Yes.We.Can!!!

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icebergslim1047 (at) gmail (dot) com
cross-posted @This Week With Barack Obama

posted with permission of diarist posted @ Daily Kos

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Aw, yes.

Remember the Peaches and Herb smash hit from the 70s?  Reunited and it feels so good...

                         
                                                       for memory lane purposes, only

OK, maybe not all that, but when I was a kid, I loved that song.

The picture at the top is Hillary and Barack, reunited, together, forever, Democrats.

Reunited.  The Democratic Party.  Our big tent.  Even though we constantly bitch at each other.  We know when to shut up and enjoy the savor.  That picture is it, above.

OK, we got a lot of stuff to do.

                     

First, The Unite for Change houseparties, get togethers tomorrow.  Click here to find out where the one near you is taking place.  Over 4,000 in all 50 states.  Make sure you are part of this.

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Donate to Hillary to retire that debt!!!  I, yes icebergslim, threw in 50.00.  It was hard, but I decided to MOVE ON because Barack need to be in the White House.  Show some good will, hold your nose, and donate.

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We have a laundry list LONGER that EVAH.  Barack Obama and the Democratic Party need money.  Even if you are at odds, show some good will, hold your nose, click here, and donate to the Obama Campaign.  We need to move on together.

Oh, you want a logo t-shirt, click here and donate 30.00.

Love the environment?  Click here and get this cool t-shirt, by donating 30.00.

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....if you need a reason to donate to either, slideshow, please:

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and if you missed the speeches in Unity, NH, click here.

                                 

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Here are excepts from the Rolling Stone article:

The first thing I notice about the plane is how low-key it is, all coach seating from back (the press) to front (the candidate). There is no separate compartment for this potential president; he just holds down the second row for himself and his newspapers. There are no more than 10 staffers on the plane, and a dozen or more rows are empty, separating the senator from the Secret Service contingent and two dozen members of the traveling press corps. It's not a big day or a big event: The primaries are done, and none of the media big names are along.

The thing that is remarkable is that for a politician, Obama has graced the Rolling Stone cover twice within a year, but this time NO TYPE over the picture, just him.

Audio Clips from the Jann Wenner interview with Barack, here.

What is on his ipod?

"If I had one musical hero, it would have to be Stevie Wonder," says Obama, who grew up on Seventies R&B and rock staples including Earth, Wind and Fire, Elton John and the Rolling Stones. "When I was at that point where you start getting involved in music, Stevie had that run with Music of My Mind, Talking Book, Fulfillingness' First Finale and Innervisions, and then Songs in the Key of Life. Those are as brilliant a set of five albums as we've ever seen."

Wonder shares room on Obama's iPod with "everything from Howlin' Wolf to Yo-Yo Ma to Sheryl Crow," he says. "And I have probably 30 Dylan songs on my iPod." Though he's partial to 1975's Blood on the Tracks, "Maggie's Farm" is "one of my favorites during the political season," says Obama. "It speaks to me as I listen to some of the political rhetoric."

and a slide show...yeah, in that slide show mood...

::

Tip the Obama Jar, Here
Get Involved Here
For Inspiration:  Yes.We.Can!!!

::

icebergslim1047 (at) gmail (dot) com
cross-posted @This Week With Barack Obama

                                                barack and al, detroit, michigan

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                                    al gore's endorsement for barack obama, detroit, michigan

"When a disaster strikes -- a Katrina, a shooting, or a six-alarm blaze -- its city hall we lean on, its city hall we call first, and city hall we depend on to get us through tough times. Because whether its a small town or a big city, the government that people count on most is the one thats closest to the people." -- Democratic Sen. Barack Obama

This was part of a statement that Barack Obama made to the United States Conference of Mayors in Miami, Florida.

It was ironic that John McCain chose to visit Iowa, when the Governor of Iowa asked him not to.

But what was more ironic is that as the folks in the ravaged midwest come to terms of what happened, it will be this that will anger many:

"I know that Sen. McCain felt as strongly as I did," Obama said, "feeling enormous sympathy for the victims of the recent flooding. I'm sure they appreciated the sentiment, but they probably would have appreciated it even more if Sen. McCain hadn't opposed legislation to fund levees and flood control programs, which he considers pork."

This is politics folks.  Pure and simple.  McCain voted against this bill that would have sent federal dollars for restoration of dams and levees.  Maybe, McCain forgot that he did vote against this bill, but showed up for the photo-op anyway.

The bill funded hundreds of projects -- such as dams, sewage plants and beach restoration -- that are important to local communities and their representatives. It also included money for the hurricane-hit Gulf Coast and for Florida Everglades restoration efforts.

I don't know about you, but I am tired of this government not spending the appropriate money for something called, maintenance and repair on the infrastructure of this country.  Ask these folks flooded out how they feel about it, or the folks in Minnesota when a bridge just up and collasped on them, or Katrina victims STILL trying to get their lives back in order.

This country sure knows how to send money to Iraq in a snap, but for just the ordinary things like maintenance and repair, the Bush Administration will call it pork barrel spending in a minute, with McCain going right along with Bush.

A shame.

                                       michelle, the dress, on the view

polls

Rasmussen: Obama pulls ahead in Virginia; Nevada Poll; Kansas Poll; Ohio PPP Poll; ABC/Washington Post Poll; SUSA Minnesota Poll; Mason-Dixon Virginia Poll; Rasmussen Oregon Poll; SUSA Kentucky Poll; Pope Institute North Carolina Poll; Reuters National Poll; Quinnipiac OH, FL and PA Poll; Alaska Rasmussen Poll; PPP Virginia Poll; Rasmussen Ohio Poll; ARG Florida Poll; SUSA Wisconsin Poll; Rasmussen Florida Poll;  Georgia Insider Advantage Poll; Newsweek National Poll; Rasmussen New Hampshire Poll; Obama best Democratic Candidate in years, per Electorial-Vote.com

Bill, Jim, Caroline? Readers Pick Obama VP
Obama's Decision Threatens Public Financing System
Obama returns Chicago to center stage
Axelrod Visits Senate Democrats
GOP Recycles Hillary Attacks On Obama Again -- This Time On Campaign Finance
With money, Obama to try to widen the battleground

                       
                                       barack's announcement to forego public financing

Without public funding, sky's the limit for Obama
AP-Ipsos poll: Most say US on wrong track
Obama gets AFSCME endorsement
Obama e-mail list makes Dems salivate
Obama Revives Kennedy-Era Excitement for Democrats Mikva, Minow

                       
                                         obama's economic roundtable with governors

National Push by Obama on Ads and Turnout

Senator Barack Obama is drawing up plans for extensive advertising and voter-turnout drives across the nation, hoping to capitalize on his expected fund-raising advantage over Senator John McCain to force Republicans to compete in states they have not had to defend in decades.

With his decision to give up public financing and the spending limits that go with it, Mr. Obama has added several seasoned hands to his advertising team, a harbinger of a multifaceted television campaign that people inside and outside Obama headquarters said would grow well beyond its already large presence in 18 states.

Future commercials could run on big national showcases like the Olympics in August and smaller cable networks like MTV and Black Entertainment Television that appeal to specific demographic and interest groups.

He is also dispatching paid staff members to all states, an unusual move by the standards of modern presidential campaigns where the fight is often contained to contested territories.  New York Times

Ready to Attack Obama, But Geez...NO MONEY by icebergslim
Obama opts out of public financing by kos
Obama Calls Muslim Women Barred from Stage by Valhalla
Obama's First General Election Ad by dansac
Obama & Kerry deal Halliburton major blow; Prez OKs closing KBR tax loophole by beachmom
An Epic Primary Season for Democrats by Maureen

obama at the united states conference of mayors in miami, florida

audio/video

Barack on Jimmy Kimmel; Michelle on The View; Barack at Foreign Policy Summit; Barack with nation's governors for an Economic Conference; Obama on Pop Culture; Obama on Offshore Drilling; Obama Expresses 'Deep Disappointment' in McCain's Silence on Wife Attacks; Polls Try to Frame Ever-Changing Political Landscape; Why the Obama Campaign Has Six Pollsters; Dissecting McCain's Vulnerabilities in the Fall; Obama Pins Hopes on Fundraising Power; Obama Puts Early Focus on Michigan; Week in Review: Campaign Finance, Wiretapping

Obama, Clinton to join forces at fundraiser
'Straight Talk Express' often reverses course
Huckabee Says Demonizing Obama `Fatal Mistake' for Republicans
Obama meets with national security advisers

barack with anna burger, the chairwoman of "change to win," and john sweeney, president of the afl-cio

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Barack Obama: Lay Off My Family
Obama Campaigns on Capitol Hill
Obama Announces Senior Working Group on National Security
Obama's Campaign Tightens Control of Image and Access
Obama camp sketches new electoral path
Women voters lining up behind Obama
Why the Christian right fears Obama

                         
                                            barack and chairman howard dean, dnc

shoutouts

Amtrak Has Too Few Usable Train Cars Left by bink; What's for Dinner: the Great Barbecue Edition by Asinus Asinum Fricat; This is a bus... by JeffLieber; What conservative bloggers taught me about flood relief by desmoinesdem; Obama To Opt Out Of Public Financing by slinkerwink; WaPo: General Accuses WH of War Crimes by abundance; How to Transform the US From a Debt to an Equity Economy by bonddad; Obama Responds to McCain Campaign Charge that he has "A September 10th Mindset" by TomP; "McCain Democrat" leader outed as racist by kat68; I got your back Barack! by Deoliver47; You Are Falling for the Right Wing's Trap. by kath25

Obama, McCain see purple in Minnesota
Obama to visit Iraq, Afghanistan
Barack Obama on Economics: 'We're Going Through a Big Shift'
Obama rebukes McCain camp on terrorism criticism
Senator Barack Obama Says He Wants to Make College Affordable
McCain Disses Bush -- But Mac Isn't as Green As He Says
Obama criticizes McCain on offshore drilling

                                     

icebergslim's last word:  barack obama

While many are up in arms over FISA, something else happened this week, "Barack Declared Independence."

Barack Obama opted out of public financing. A first for any major candidate.

This decision is important on many levels.  First, there will be grumbling from the other side of flip/flopping and Barack did, but for a good cause, to run a campaign independent of the shackles on your feet with public financing.  I don't expect this to stick because most of the general public is not interested in how campaigns are financed.  They just don't care.  Maybe in another year or years to come, but not this year with the economy crumbling and gas prices looking at folks to hit five dollars a gallon, soon, it is a non-issue.

But what this does mean?  It means that not only is Barack independent, but the Democratic Party, as a whole, is independent.  We are free to raise the amount of money needed to fund all 50 states through November, along with helping to raise money for all the congressional and senate races riding this independent wave, as well.

I hope you fully understand what is at stake here.  While some are complaining about FISA, we need to raise massive amounts of money for Barack, the DNC Convention, and the whole Democratic Party.  This burden is not only on Barack, but all of us.

Along with this, Barack and Michelle Obama must fundraise, Barack has to go overseas, Barack has to go to Iraq and Afghanistan, Barack has to run the Democratic Convention, Barack has to complete a platform, all in about two months.  One word, "Wow."

A good friend told me today that she did not like that Barack only raised 22M for May, for her a huge drop off.  That is worrisome to her.  I told her it did not bother me, but now I have to sit back and look at all I just wrote above and completely state, "this is a lot of stuff to complete on a promise of ordinary voters to fund."  It is.

So, while you are angry, you need to sit back and look at what we need to do and complete as a party.  I will be the first to state that having the primary go to the end did not help us with timing.  Many just became tired of it and disconnected, well it is time to reconnect and that starts with donating to the Obama for America Campaign.

See, I understand the current beef about FISA, warranted and duly noted, but the large picture is too big and the stakes too high to stop now.  There are many reading this that have a son or daughter or loved one in Iraq; somebody has lost their job; a family is wondering how to save their home; someone may not have gas money to go to work tomorrow; many are skimping on food because of costs; some teenager is crying right now because they cannot go to college, even though they had good grades; folks got the credit card companies calling constantly because they can't afford the payments and this list is endless.  Yes, endless because I know some people who are affected on this list.  So, see FISA right now is not an issue, but change and new direction in this country is.

We need to stand together, not apart now.  I am hoping this bill is shoved until after November when it can be readdressed, but no matter what happens we need to move forward, together.

Folks, we have a laundry list of items to accomplish and time is not on our side.

It starts here.  Donate to Obama for America.  Because if we don't get him elected in November and increase Democrats in congress, there will be more than whining for the next four years, but some serious weeping as well.

well another week has flown by and michelle obama was the star, no doubt.  i don't know why the press is giving her a bum rap, but the woman is not only accomplished and lovely but puts her family first.  al rodgers got me hooked on the slideshows, but he is numero uno in that department.  a true, inspiration.  as the summer is coming along, many of us are busy with families, getting ready for vacations, or just coping with LIFE.  remember, we came from absolutely nothing and look where we are.  keep involved, focus, donate and remember to focus on obama and not the drama...

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Tip the Obama Jar, Here
Get Involved Here
For Inspiration:  Yes.We.Can!!!

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icebergslim1047 (at) gmail (dot) com
cross-posted @This Week With Barack Obama

cross-posted by diarist permission @ This Week With Barack Obama and Daily Kos

the presumptive nominee with wife, michelle at the xcel energy center in st. paul, mn

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                                      obama's speech in st. paul, mn, june 3, 2008

photo blog

Yesterday, instead of watching the RBC meeting... by casperr; From Obama Blog: Troy, MI; From Obama Blog:  Rite Aide Distribution Workers in Troy, MI; Finally! Obama comes to Oakland County, Michigan by brightstar; Photoblog: Obama in Troy, MI by Silvan Elf; Tear Jerking Photos - (Now w Wed Front Pages X2) by Al Rodgers; From Obama Blog: Victory Night for Obama in St. Paul, MN; I Witnessed History (Photo Essay) by Kayakbiker; THANK YOU, volunteers! (open thread) by casperr; Last night at the Xcel Energy Center, I saw history by Populista; Front Page News by Calev; Barack Obama at Nissan Pavilion in Bristow, Virginia by acluka

The wife U.S. Republican John McCain callously left behind
Obama toughens Iran stance, backs Israel on Jerusalem
McCain Distances Himself From Bush and Jabs Obama
Former weapons inspector predicts U.S. shift in foreign policy
Obama has cash advantage over McCain
Obama vs. McCain, by the map
Obama Makes History for African Americans
Obama moves quickly to put his stamp on party, DNC

                           
                                                  obama's aipac speech, washington, d.c.

The Vice Presidential Quest
It has not even been one week since Barack Obama clinched the Democratic Nominee title, that we now must listen to blather about Hillary Clinton being his VP nod.

I wrote earlier on Wednesday, that it is Obama's choice and his choice only.  In fact, it was Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell, a Clinton supporter, who stated with his eloquent charm that, "You can't leverage the President of the United States to make you Vice President. It's like an arranged marriage it doesn't work," said Rendell Thursday afternoon. "I don't think you're entitled. I think the presidential nominee has the right to pick someone he or she is comfortable with, compatible with."  I hope the Clinton surrogates get and UNDERSTAND what Rendell said.

Obama has indicated strongly that the next time he talks of VP it will be when he announces the VP candidate.  This had to be stated since the Clinton surrogates were hot and heavy handed in trying to force Obama's hand for VP selection by going to the media and hocking Clinton's name.  This backfired as Obama announced his three team VP selection committee of Jim Johnson, Eric Holder and Caroline Kennedy.  Thus, we saw a Clinton press release stating she is not interested or seeking the VP slot.

So, we all need to take Obama's lead and chill.  If Clinton can pass the vetting process, along with her husband and if Barack feels she would be an asset to the ticket, then fine.  What we don't want is a pressured candidate to accept a nominee as John Kerry was pressured to do with John Edwards.  They were two different individuals who were not playing the same game during that campaign and it showed.

Barack Obama will pick the best and most qualified person to be his running mate, not the other way around.  This will also include being in synch, the same vision, and no drama added going forward; an Obama MANDATE for what has made his campaign a success within, as well as outward.

                           
                                             obama at daley plaza, in chicago, illinois

How Obama Did It

Barack Obama was campaigning last October in South Carolina when he got an urgent call from Penny Pritzker, the hotel heiress who leads his campaign's finance committee. About 200 of his biggest fund raisers were meeting in Des Moines, Iowa, and among them, near panic was setting in. Pritzker's team had raised money faster than any other campaign ever had. Its candidate was drawing mega-crowds wherever he went. Yet he was still running at least 20 points behind Hillary Clinton in polls. His above-the-fray brand of politics just wasn't getting the job done, and some of his top moneymen were urging him to rethink his strategy, shake up his staff, go negative. You'd better get here, Pritzker told Obama. And fast.

Obama made an unscheduled appearance that Sunday night and called for a show of hands from his finance committee. "Can I see how many people in this room I told that this was going to be easy?" he asked. "If anybody signed up thinking it was going to be easy, then I didn't make myself clear." A win in Iowa, Obama promised, would give him the momentum he needed to win across the map -- but his backers wouldn't see much evidence of progress before then. "We're up against the most formidable team in 25 years," he said. "But we've got a plan, and we've got to have faith in it."

More than seven months later, that faith has been rewarded. The 2008 presidential campaign has produced its share of surprises, but one of the most important is that a newcomer from Chicago put together by far the best political operation of either party. Obama's campaign has been that rare, frictionless machine that runs with the energy of an insurgency and the efficiency of a corporation. His team has lacked what his rivals' have specialized in: there have been no staff shake-ups, no financial crises, no change in game plan and no visible strife. Even its campaign slogan -- "Change we can believe in" -- has remained the same.  Time Magazine, continue

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Barack Obama's Endorsement Derby by maureen
Underestimating Barack Obama by Femlaw
Now we know why Obama was in the U.S. Senate on Wednesday by markthshark
Obama reaches out to HRC supporters in Minnesota by Keith Pickering
With Grace and Dignity??? by Granny Doc
"Together We Can Rally the Party Around Senator Obama" by DHinMI
Wall Street cozying up to Obama
Clinton, Obama talks held without aides present
Calls him 'once-in-a-generation leader, Senate Leader, Harry Reid's Endorsement of Obama
What Obama Could Teach Africa
Why Obama will be the next U.S. president

obama accepts a hand made walking stick by 95 yr old, charles edwards in bristol, va

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Major Clinton Backers Rally Around Obama
Wave of Obama Books
The Long Goodbye
Clinton Ready to End Bid and Endorse Obama
Five reasons Obama won. Five reasons Clinton lost.
Clinton's exit: When push came to shove

shoutouts:

Portugal Builds Biggest Solar & Alt Energy Systems by FishOutofWater; What's Going On in the Oil Market? by bonddad; Hillary Clinton: A Personal View by DemFromCT; America should have listened to Jimmy Carter on Energy in 1977. by TomP; The six second video clip that mystified a nation by JedReport; Leaked memo: McCain is playing you, Clinton supporters by upstate girl; MUST READ: Whitey Hoax blown wide open by The Termite; If Clinton Really Wanted to Be VP... by MissLaura; Waxman Closing in on Cheney's Role in Outing Plame by emptywheel; Tonight, Congressman Robert Wexler spoke to his mostly pro-Clinton constituents by jdodsonvls; Friends of Bill Warn Obama: Do Not Trust Clintons by wisconsin girl; New Abramoff Plea is Trouble for McCain & the GOP by dengre

                           
                                    obama and clinton at aipac conference in washington, dc

Can New Voters Deliver November Victory for Obama?
Dems' Endgame Means More Games
Obama invites Clinton to unity meeting
Handling Hillary
Obama aims to make openness an issue
Clinton's couldas, shouldas, wouldas
Clinton suspends campaign, endorses Obama
Obama on Clinton's endorsement
The Long Road to a Clinton Exit

                                                   obama in troy, michigan

audio/video

Ida Fast Wolf introduces Obama in South Dakota; Obama in Troy, Michigan; NPR: Obama's AIPAC Speech; Obama in Bristol, VA for town hall meeting; ABC Overview of Obama's Campaign; Inside Obama Brand; NPR:  Hillary Clinton's Concession Speech in Audio; NPR: Historians Imagine McCain-Obama Debate; NPR: Students React to Obama's Historic Nomination; NPR: McCain's Strategy vs. Obama; NPR: Week in Review: Obama Clinches Nomination; Daschle on Uniting the Democratic Party; NPR: Obama and JFK; NBC's MEET THE PRESS; Diddy on Obama's Nomination

                       
                                       obama speaks to HQ Staff & Volunteers in chicago, il

polls

NC Poll: McCain 43, Obama 40 - Officially a Swing State; SUSA polls Minnesota - Obama 47, McCain 42; Gallup: Both Obama & Clinton pull slightly ahead of McCain; Lots of polls; CBS Poll: Obama Leads McCain; Gallup Early Roadmap; Rasmussen Unity Achieved; LA Times: Obama has a HUGE lead among Latino voters!

McCain Proposes Joint Town Halls with Obama
World Welcomes Obama's Win
With Historic Nomination in Hand, Obama Will Turn to Swing States
Battle lines drawn for showdown campaign
Will the real John McCain stand up
Obama a symbol of progress, change

               
                                                                   obama's 50 state strategy

One Historic Night, Two Americas

WHEN Barack Obama achieved his historic victory on Tuesday night, the battle was joined between two Americas. Not John Edwards's two Americas, divided between rich and poor. Not the Americas split by race, gender, party or ideology. What looms instead is an epic showdown between two wildly different visions of the country, from the ground up.

On one side stands Mr. Obama's resolutely cheerful embrace of the future. His vision is inseparable from his identity, both as a rookie with a slim Washington résumé and as a black American whose triumph was regarded as improbable by voters of all races only months ago. On the other is John McCain's promise of a wise warrior's vigilant conservation of the past. His vision, too, is inseparable from his identity -- as a government lifer who has spent his entire career in service, whether in the Navy or Washington.

Given the dividing line separating the two Americas of 2008, a ticket uniting Mr. McCain and Hillary Clinton might actually be a better fit than the Obama-Clinton "dream ticket," despite their differences on the issues. Never was this more evident than Tuesday night, when Mrs. Clinton and Mr. McCain both completely misread a one-of-a-kind historical moment as they tried to cling to the prerogatives of the 20th century's old guard. Frank Rich, NYT

The Comeback ID
Hillary:  my part in her downfall
Obama's Focus on Faith Offers Promise and Pitfalls for Democrats
Foreign Reaction to Obama's Claim Is Favorable
It's Obama's Party

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icebergslim's last word:  hillary clinton, wrap up

It is over.  Though not as it should have been, but it is over.  Hillary Clinton conceded, Saturday, June 7, 2008.

Many have not liked the way that the Clintons have conducted themselves during this primary season.  Point noted.

Many did not like how the dog whistle tactics were used against Barack Obama.  Point noted.

Many did not like how the Clinton surrogates had behaved, and there were many.  Point noted.

Many are very angered at Hillary Clinton for not recognizing the historical moment of Barack Obama's win.  Point noted.

Many are still livid that she did not concede until four days later and was still plotting to hang around.  Point noted.

But in the end, she did the right thing, even though she was pressured to do so.  The only thing that matters is unity, Democrats with our Independent and Republican friends, standing side-by-side to defeat the Republicans in the fall.  Our leader is Barack Obama, we are his army, his coalition, along with the Clintons.

So, let's move on.  It is time to write about defeating John McCain and the Republicans.  The issues are too grave to let this squabbling continue.  It is over.  Barack Obama is the Democratic Presumptive Nominee and we need to get it together to win in November.

                         

Why Hillary Lost?  By some of the best political front pagers in the blogosphere......

Why Clinton Lost by Hunter

Why Clinton Lost: Change and the Bush legacy by smintheus

Why Clinton Lost: She didn't channel supporter passion. by MissLaura

Why Clinton Lost: Too Soon a Bulldog by Devilstower

Why Clinton Lost (And Why Obama Just May Win Big In November) by georgia10

Why Clinton Lost: She Fought the Last War, With the Wrong Generals, and Not Enough of an Army by DHinMI

ok, i am not gonna lie.  i have become the al rodgers, jr. of the slides.  can't help it.  with so many pictures to pick, it is only right.  hail to the master al, though.  it has been a HELL OF A WEEK.  barack securing the nomination, hillary don't want to leave yet, hillary being pushed off the stage, hillary meeting with barack and hillary finally endorsing obama fully.  man, is it that hard to lose?  this is a primary race that many books will be written about, and it will all focus on the skinny, 2 year u.s. senator from illinois beating the clinton brand.  that is the story for years to come.  ok, we are onto mcsame, and it is time to go after him in earnest.  we know by november it will not be all sugar and spice.  whatever you are doing, remember to continue to stay engaged and focus on obama and not the drama....

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Tip the Obama Jar, Here
Get Involved Here
For Inspiration:  Yes.We.Can!!!

::

icebergslim1047 (at) gmail (dot) com
This Week With Barack Obama

reposted by permission of diarist, icebergslim

cross-posted @ This Week With Barack Obama

                                   

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                                          obama in las vegas, nv addressing the housing crisis

Campaign Appearances

June 3, 2008 - Rally with Barack and Michelle Obama, St. Paul, MN

Clinton faces new pressure on 2 fronts
Biden's strength in foreign policy recruited by Obama
How McCain's Katrina Record Undermines Criticism Of Obama On Iraq
In An Iraq-Related Hole, McCain Keeps On Digging
The Obama-McCain age gap that matters
Obama poised for nomination despite Clinton victory in Puerto Rico

obama at mapleton expeditionary school of the arts in thornton, co

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Obama Used Party Rules to Foil Clinton
Barack Obama is Master of the New Facebook Politics
After Kennedy comment, many seem over the Hill
Obama's Lobbyist Connections
Native American vote crucial to Obama, Clinton
DNC Is Not Duplicating the Fundraising Success of Party's Candidates

                         
                              obama with former governor roy romer in thornton, co

Photo Blogs

Obama's Emotional Tribute to Teddy - before 25,000 by Al Rodgers; Eye Candy? by Al Rodgers; A day in the motorcade of Barack Obama by Kevin Florida; Obama in Florida! (with lots o' pics, updated x2) by  by mtundu; Global Food Disparity: A Photo Diary by Asinus Asinum Fricat; Obama Opens Up a Can of "WHOOOOP-ASS" - DECKS McSame by Al Rodgers; Obama's Tuesday Victory: Live from the RNC Convention Site! by kubla000; Best. Picture. Evar. by Ambboogie; From the Obama Blog: Obama in Rapid City, SD; I just left the RBC meeting by Sean Robertson

                         
                                                obama in great falls, montana

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Bookmark this new site: Obama Videos
Next Steps: Framing the Kennedy Legacy by psericks
Pelosi won't allow convention fight by Terre
Obama is back! by Populista
ACTION: Searching for John McCain by Chris Bowers
Michelle Obama in Phoenix: "Fear Is a Useless Emotion" by dawnt
WaPo reporter: Superdelegates no longer paying attention to Hillary by Joe Beese
Speaker Nancy Pelosi, "..a luxury I can't afford." by icebergslim

                           
                                                             is it true about obama?

Obama and Trinity United Church of Christ.

I know it was difficult for Barack, Michelle, Melia and Sasha Obama to leave a church that has been a cornerstone of their life.  It was.  But leave the church, eventually, they had to.

What happened in this campaign is that white America is not/was not knowledgeable of Black Churches in the United States of America.  Many of these churches are very progressive, speak to social issues, and address the uplifting of many Black Americans in this country.  The continuous loop of Wright's statements and of Fox News using Father Pfleger's video of his statements about Hillary Clinton, did not nurture the Obamas to remain with Trinity United Church of Christ.  I believe it just hastened their path to the door.

Make no mistake; this church has done incredible outreach in the Black Community for jobs, Aids, spiritual development, etc.  This is known.  But we are in the realm of politics and Barack Obama is a bi-racial man who is trying to be defined by some as a Black Radical Nutcase by the far right, when this is not so.

In the end, the Obama Family had no choice but to leave Trinity United Church of Christ.

Always remember that Barack Obama is running to be President of the United States of America, to represent all of us, not some of us.  That is the beauty of who he truly is, because it will be us who put hi