All Americans Should Be Supporting Obama

In a blink of an eye, Barack Obama will be the United States next President. He battled the "Clinton Machine," John McCain (one of the most heralded Vietnam Veterans and P.O. W.), and finally he battled the court of public opinion, and he passed all of these tests with flying colors. Whether Republican, Democrat, Independent, or your personal persuasion of government, now is the time to get behind the next President of the United States. The risks around the world is to high, for a failed four years, from Obama.

Starting from day one, of his taking of the Oval Office, Obama will be challenged with monumental problems, both here and abroad. Pakistan and India (both nuclear powers) are at each others borders, Israel and the Palestinians are almost in an all out war, wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are roaring, China and Russia are building and saber rattling (thru cyber attacks, buying U. S. debt, and even encroaching on other sovereign countries), these are just some of the major problems abroad. At home, the economy is in shambles, staples in the American work force is either being bailed out (AIG, the banking institutions, the "Big 3 Motor Companies," the airlines and countless other private industries/companies are all filing for bankruptcy, or are looking for handouts). This is not a time for mistakes, partisanship, and Capitol Hill to continue on, with a 20% approval rating.

At the beginning of this new year, it is time to root for Barack Obama, not begrudge him. No matter who is the President of the United States, we are Americans first and foremost. Anyone not hoping, looking for good things, and/or praying for Obama is not fulfilling their American duties. Especially, when the man has not made one decision as President, yet.

Thanksgiving & A Thought

To All Of My Friends, Both Old and New---

I hope you all have a happy Thanksgiving and Holiday Season. However, I would rather all have a memorable and prayerful season, as without God nothing is possible. Feel free to pass along, but don't feel obligation.

You won't get seven wishes, if you pass this on to seven people. Nobody will love you more, or you won't find love, if you send this along. :)

"Dear God, Our Father--

Thank you for all of the things you have provided and the things you have not given us, due to the fact you know all things. Thank you for friends, siblings, family, all of the people in our lives, both good and bad, as it always takes everyone for us to be who we are and who we will become. God thank you for all of the things we do not know about, the things we do know, and help us to be a sponge, to learn and be a vital part of everyone's live, we may come in contact with.

God thank you for the safety we have, and the life you have breathed into us. As no matter how bad our pain is, our situation may be, or the constant barrage of things in our lives, we are thankful to have the chance to make a difference. Thank you for our health and all of the health of those around us. Yet, make those who are not healthy, or dealing with those who are not, to understand we are just a vessel on earth, and our true future is with You, OUR God, in Heaven.

Please God, grant us the ability to live with a purpose, Your purpose, looking ahead to make a difference for Your Plan. God please hold your hand out to those who are not Christian, in hopes a change and eternity (with You) will come. God please help those who are in hunger, in terror (India), who have been wronged (in any way) by others, or have a life they are struggling with, to hold on, look to You, and please show the way.

Finally, God please allow everyone to not just see the "Thanks" on this holiday, but in everyday, hour, minute, second, in order for lives to be lived, instead of just coasted thru, filled with dread, or what may come. You are the Almighty and without you, there would be nothing. Please show us how to make a difference in our lives and others, in accordance with Your will.

In Jesus' name, Amen"

MIKE D./DMAN
The Thought Spigot
http://thethoughtspigot.com

LA Times Confused & Contrite On "Non-Obama" Coverage

FROM "The Thought Spigot"

http://www.thethoughtspigot.com/

The Los Angeles Times, far from a right wing beacon, has brought issue with Mr. Obama. The "Times" is a little bit hard to figure out, the same paper holding a tape, showing Obama, William Ayers, and Palestinian sympathizer Rashid Khalidi. "The Times" refuses to show the tape, before the election, siting "confidentiality agreements with the tape owner."
( http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-na-obamamideast10apr10%2C0%2C5826085.story )

Yet, "The Times" follows Wednesday night's Obama "Infomercial," stating a feeling sorry for McCain: "Still, it's hard not to feel bad for John McCain, even if this page prefers Obama. McCain may genuinely have thought he was doing the honorable thing by accepting public financing, but his $84-million allotment from the Treasury is being dwarfed by Obama's fundraising machine, which took in $150 million in September alone. McCain supporters can always switch to cable on Wednesday night; AMC is showing "Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday," a horror film that might suit their mood." However, this is not a joke, and it is the next President of the United States America is voting for, so the innuendo is out of touch.
( http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/editorials/la-ed-obamercial27-2008oct27,0,687727.story )

This is a one of the top papers in the country, and they do not completely understand, or agree with some of Barack Obama's personal and business ties, how he has managed and lied (in some circumstances) on the campaign trail, and when looking thru the "Election Section" and other coverage on Obama, there is more than a little bit of discrepancy on Barack Obama the man and politician. The "Times" has endorsed Barack Obama, but came out with an Op. Ed. stating, there was a large wall around the man and it is to late to find out certain things now. Once again, if a major paper does not have access to a Presidential candidate, how can an everyday person know where a candidate stands, where he has been, and if he is actually fully vetted?

The major media not getting all of the details out, on Senator Obama, and America is left to make a "semi" educated vote. "The Los Angeles Times" should be ashamed of themselves for not raising this question earlier, releasing the full tape of Barack with another shady character (in 2003, not when "he was 4 years old"), and the fact they are just pointing it out now, only makes it worse. Coupled with the rest of the mainstream media, worrying about being talked down to and laughed at (like Biden, in Florida this week, or Obama laughing at "Joe the Plumber" the day after his question, on "spreading the wealth"), having their credentials pulled and not granting any interviews at all (if there is any sense of not full control of an interview), or being called racist, bigots, using the "same old political tactics" (when they do not like the way an interview has gone, is going), they are up against doing their jobs and informing the American people, or ratings. Ratings has won. All political season, 98% of the time, and America deserves better.

Obama's "Infomercial," In Prime Time

From: "The Thought Spigot"

http://www.thethoughtspigot.com/

Never in Presidential Politics has a candidate actually bought a complete, prime time, air slot. However, Barack Obama, on Wednesday night, has purchased one half an hour, of complete air time to push his campaign. NBC, CBS, and FOX are all going to air the Obama "Infomercial," at $1 million per station. ABC is the only station abstaining from the "Obama-thon," not citing a reason for the choice.

When the New York Time's headlines and front page news is on Sarah Palin's $150,000 wardrobe (which she must give back and is auctioning the majority, given to her from the Republican National Convention), there is not any outrage, or problem with Obama buying the whole half an hour slot of pre-taped air time. The Obama Campaign is not speaking out, on whether they will go half live, half taped, but the majority of the leaks, lend themselves to a fully taped, non-integrated, and "all Obama" show. Who says you can't buy the Presidency of the United States, right?

When did Obama tape this show? In a situation where he is in countless cities, states, and a non-stop schedule, one has to ask how he could have a relevant, to the day's topic, and also stay on the campaign trail? Personally, I believe it was when he went to Hawaii. I am sure his grandmother is sick, but when a lady who was basically your mother (or the woman who he claims raised him) is "on her death bed," your whole family goes with you. However, Michelle Obama did not go to Hawaii, and she was giving stump speeches in her husband's possible hour of need (if his grandmother was to die). All of this gives me pause, the fact a candidate can buy a full television slot, on three of the four major networks (in prime time), and then when he taped the actual tape. Of course the mainstream media will not be asking any of these questions, but I am.

Here is the link to the first newspaper story, on the ABC sitting out the Obama Special:

http://www.thrfeed.com/2008/10/abc-will-air-da.html

Obama Interview Dates To 2001, On Income Redistribution

From DMAN, at "The Thought Spigot"

http://www.thethoughtspigot.com/

From DMAN, at "The Thought Spigot"
Barack Obama's past is riddled with "a little bit of this, and a little bit of that." Joe Biden can't answer questions on Obama's income policies, or tax policies, without condencending smirks and quips. "Joe the Plumber" and the overall track record of Obama's "quazi-socialist/marxist" views, are nothing new. They actually date back to 2001, and probably beyond. Here is an interview, from Chicago, when Barack Obama was a state senator, talking about "income redistribution and how the Supreme Court lost it's way, in the 1960's, during the civil right movements."

Stating in just a portion of the radio interview, in Chicago, WBEZ Public Radio, "One of the, I think, the tragedies of the civil rights movement was because the civil rights movement became so court forced. I think there was a tendency to lose track of the political and community organizing activities on the ground that are able to put together the actual coalitions of power through which you bring about REDISTRIBUTIVE CHANGE. And in some ways we still suffer from that."

For the whole "public radio interview, from 2001" click on the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iivL4c_3pck

http://www.thethoughtspigot.com/

McCain Must Follow Three Step Plan, Or Lose

From DMAN, AT THE THOUGHT SPIGOT
http://thethoughtspigot.com
"Where the news, sports, and opinion collides"


John McCain has three things he must accomplish, or he will lose the election, in historic fashion. It is that simple, no less, no more. If the McCain/Palin ticket is to take the White House (even if they do, it will only be by 2-4 points), they must:

1. Keep on the offensive on the judgement and character of Barack Obama and Joe Biden. They have to lay off of the Williams "Bill" Ayers connection, and go to Tony Rezco, Rev. Jeremiah Wright, and some Bill Ayers. The fact Obama's whole campaign and political history has been one calculation, after another, must be spelled out. McCain must show how Rev. Wright's church was going to "literally" be shut down, within months, until he changed his church's message (Trinity United Christian Church), to a black theological system/congregation. This transfer of message, happened when Obama was blowing into the "Windy City." Ayers was Obama's ticket into the fast lane, but Wright's over the top rhetoric and lack of theological judgement was his ticket into the black community. Ayers and Wright led Obama into many meetings, with many different political and economic characters. Tony Rezco was the next step, on the stepping stone, of Obama's career. Rezco was Obama's "Financial Advisor" for years, according to Barack's own words. The three people above, have to be brought into the public's view, as the major/mainstream media is not concerned with any of these people, or problems. McCain has to focus on the multiple felon Rezco (on charges of fraud, perjury, and other economic charges) and Wright, especially. They were the two people, in Obama's life, who were the biggest impact and closest friends. They are also the biggest political and legal liabilities, to Obama.

2. McCain has to be spectacular in the debate. He must come out swinging, bring the above into play, and he must do it in a fashion stimulating, showing passion, and most of all making the American people feel him.

3. Fourteen to twelve days before the election, McCain must do something never done in Presidential politics. He must announce three to five of his cabinet members. Coming out, in a major press conference, stating Palin is my vice president. Rudi Guiliani is going to be my Attorney General, and with his office he intends to hammer and prosecute anyone outside the law, call for hearings, and cast a complete light on the whole economic scandal. Mitt Romney, or someone of his stature (Americans know), is going to be my Secretary of the Treasury, and he will be cleaning up and making things right for the middle class. Joe Lieberman is going to be my Secretary of Defense. Showing McCain and Palin are ready to work across the aisle, stating Lieberman and McCain are close and will be able to work, as such. He may even go as far, to bring up someone like Kay Bailey-Hutchinson, as a United Nations liaison.

Without these three things, McCain is going to lose the election by 12-18 points. That is the bottom line.

Time Reveals, Economic Bail Out A Joke

"The sky is falling, the sky is falling," economic breakdown, is just the first in a long list of examples. The government (SCC chairs, Barney Frank, Bill Clinton's 1994 change in the housing discipline, and George Bush's administration in part), the full scope of the "Wall Street Crowd," large businesses, golden parachutes, and the people (including the high end, Ed McMahon's, to the low end, poor/low income people) who were greedy, taking advantage of others, and those who were out to get something for nothing.

Where did the United States see this before? Katrina is a current example. Hurricane Katrina is coming, but there was not an adequate evacuation plan, warnings, or state and local precautions. America had the people who sat in bars, on Bourbon Street, never heeding the warnings and staying in their homes. People on the ground, in hospitals left people to die, stole and looted drugs and supplies, and all those who rioted and broke into a neighbor's home. Finally, the government, FEMA, Congress, Senate, and the Bush White House completely let the American people down. Consistently, making poor choices, from letting tons of ice melt, water and natural supplies go to waste, the "debit cards" for poor/"disenfranchised" people to use to buy essential supplies (yet, most, went out to buy luxury hand bags, beer and countless other "non-essentials") and the millions of dollars of mobile homes that never got to the people who needed them (which are still sitting on Oklahoma Government land, useless because of how they were stored, on cinder blocks).

With Katrina, Ike (which has not been a fiasco, but will need millions/billions of dollars spent), the September 11, terrorist bombings, the Iraq/Afghanistan wars, and now a huge economic disaster has all been dealt with by more of the same. Companies like "Fannie, Freddie, AIG, Stearns, etc...etc.." should be left to fail. Darwin's survival of the fittest, applies in the Capitalist Money system, here in America. If there is a company, which has bought bad paper, made bad deals, and is allowing their CEO's/CFO's to rule (at a salary of $1 million a month) and when the company is languishing (sends them away with tens of millions of dollars, severance). Then the company deserves to get whatever the market bares. If this is not the way the free market, operates, then it is not Capitalism. It is a whole different animal, altogether. Coupled with greedy and people living over their means, the above lax company policies, and countless examples of lack of oversight, mixed with the greed and "out of means living" of Americans; the automobile, airline, and other major industries should expect a bail out, from the government, causing the world economy and American economy to tank into a huge depression.

Industry, businesses, and individuals are all responsible to leave and work within their means, and if they do not, they deserve to perish. There should always be an equation, whether for business, the stock market (including those greedy and non-ethical speculators), or for individuals stating, (this costs) X dollars - (my income) Y dollars = this is what I can afford/lend/buy (Z outcome). A bail out of this size ($700 billion dollars), the biggest expansion of government in United States history, will not benefit the majority of individuals. It will make those with money, to buy the housing, stocks, and bonds at $.20 on the dollar, to come out that much more ahead, leaving those individuals (who may have been taken advantage of) to fend for themselves. It will also quelch the majority of the "new programs" of the Obama Presidency, or the fiscal cuts of a McCain Presidency, only handcuffing our country for generations. This does not include the countless dollars, which will be lost, at the hands of China, Russia, and other countries buying into the "free bail out" order. The "bail out" is a sham. The longer time goes on, revealing the details (of what was supposed to be rammed through Congress and Government), the less political figures and the people want it at all. One time, the government has to represent the "Main Street" and not "Wall Street," or it will be at America's peril.

Hillary Touts Herself and Women, Yet Not Obama, At DNCC

A tear in her eye, Hillary Rodham Clinton the first woman to "almost" become President, took the stage (at the Democratic National Convention) and her introduction video music said it all. The first four songs before she uttered a word were: "(Girl) You Really Got Me" (Van Halen), "Are You Going To Go My Way" (Lenny Kravitz), "American Girl" (Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers), and finally "She Can Change The World" (Big Head Todd & The Monsters). Clinton in the primaries got more than 18 million votes, won more states (by vote), but lost due to the "Super Delegates" votes, was obviously emotional when taking the stage. However, once the music was queued down and the cheering stopped (after 3-4 minutes), at the Denver Convention, Hillary Clinton went to a multiple message speech.

Some of the first words out of her mouth were, "I am so honored to be here tonight. No, I am here tonight, as a proud mother, as a proud Democrat, as a proud Senator from New York, a proud American, and a proud supporter of Barack Obama. My friends, it is time, to take back the country we love, and whether you voted for me, or voted for Barack, the time is now to unite, as a single party, with a single purpose! We are on the same team, and non of us can afford to sit on the sidelines. It is a fight for the future and it is a fight we must win, together. I haven't spent the past 35 years in the trenches, advocating for children, campaigning for universal health care, helping parents balance work and family, and fighting for women's rights (here at home and around the world), to see another Republican squander our promise, of a country that really fulfills the hopes of our people. You haven't worked, so hard, over the last 18 months, and endured the last 8 years to suffer through more failed leadership. No way, no how, no McCain!"

She spoke of running a race, against Obama, as being a privilege, of devotion of duty and overall lending the American people's time serving, to be a better nation. A mantra of the Democrats, for more than a century. Clinton spoke of the "cancer victim" who greeted her "with a bald head," a young man in a Marine Corps. T-shirt, and the people who were the "Sisterhood of the traveling pantsuits." Saying she, "Never gave in, never gave up, and we made history together." Calling on Harriet Tubbman, other women of the past, the women of the unions, teachers, hospital workers, and all of the women who have come before her. Saying, "Those are the women who allowed my daughter to vote for me, for President of the United States."Speaking on the John McCain front, Senator Clinton said, "John McCain is my colleague and my friend, he has served our country with honor and courage, but we do not need four more years of the last eight years. More economic stagnation and less affordable care, more high gas prices and less alternative energy, more jobs shipped overseas and less jobs created here at home, more skyrocketing debt/home foreclosures and mounting debt, more war and less diplomacy." You get the point. Obviously, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, from here on out, will be saying John McCain is George Bush in disguise. "It is obvious why John and George Bush will be in the Twin Cities, because it is harder and harder to tell them apart." This strategy has yet to work, for the democrats, but for Sen. Clinton what else could she say, but the Democratic talking points.

There was no mention of "we (the Democrats) are a completely different because of Barack Obama and Joe Biden's policies." Actually, she did not mention Barack Obama, but a handful of times, rather going back to "those who came before me." She did say, "Barack Obama is my candidate." Although, she had to say that, and then she spoke little else about the man who took her candidacy away. The best lines of the speech were either about Hillary Clinton, or they were about women of the past, not about Barack Obama. Maybe, this unifies the party of the Democrats. Then again, there are three John McCain commercials (here in Missouri), using Hillary's own words, to say that Obama was not ready to lead. Yet, another thing Hillary failed to mention. She did not say one time, Barack Obama is ready to deal with the things America faces today, and on day one. Not one time did she allude to the "Presidential Nominee" (Obama), as a strong leader, a man of trust, loyalty, or someone the American people can count on.

Finally, Hillary Clinton did what the Clinton's do, and that is tout the Clinton's. Rallying from a near tears beginning of her speech, to a rallying cry for women, in general (not a rallying cry, for Obama, or to vote for Obama). She would receive a grade of 50%, if Obama was grading her. Sure, she rallied the troops, got the whole convention cheering and women in tears (over her past women speech), but she did not advance Barack Obama's cause, in any way. Other than bashing McCain and Bush, which she only did in one spot in the speech, there was nothing about Barack Obama, or demonizing Republicans.

Just think, Bill Clinton speaks tomorrow night, and America can only wonder. What will Bill Clinton say, do, and how far will he use he Presidential muster to advance the 2012 Hillary Campaign, or will he advance Barack Obama whole heartedly and in unity?

An Indepent's Review of Michelle Obama, At DNC & Stump

Michelle Obama did not come out and give the Martin Luther King, Jr., "I Have A Dream" speech. Rather, she delivered a Mary Tyler Moore, Apple Pie, and a speech that will resonate with the majority of Democrats and some Independents. Coming out in a light blue, (looking like) an almost knit dress, with a large center piece on the front, hair styled in a soft, out of the face, look, and finally speaking with a plain and forthright nature, about how anything can be achieved in America ("The Ice Cream Dream Speech" refering to her first dates with Barack, but also how anything can be achieved with Barack as President and how Michelle and Barack are just the same as Middle to Low Income Class People, no different). Yet, she accomplished the goal of the night, letting the country know, she is "not" a bitter, elite, over the top, and heavy handed black woman (which she has looked like, several times, on the campaign trail).

Michelle, orchestrated with a magnificently choreographed speech and back drop, spoke of faith, the power of her family, her love of family, and mostly how Barack would treat the American people, like he treats her and his family. History was made, at the DNCC, in the black community, having the first possible black first lady, stand up and say, "One day your sons and daughters will tell their own children, about what we did together in this election. They will tell them who we listened to our hopes, instead of our fears, how this time we stopped doubting and started dreaming, how this time in this great country, where a girl (from the South side of Chicago) can go to college and law school and the son of a single mother, can go all the way to the White House."

Mrs. Obama did not deliver the "Gettysburg Address." However, she did achieve more than one goal. She delivered a speech Americans will look at, whether white, black, or brown, and see that she (Michelle) is just a woman who followed the American Dream. She is a woman who loves her children, thinking of them the first thing in the morning and the last thing at night. Michelle Obama made herself one of the many simple Americans, at the DNCC. Along with Barack making a video appearance, from Kansas City (flubbing saying he was in both KC and St. Louis), praising his wife. The video performance was not needed, as Michelle was delivering Barack Obama, as the "Non-Elitist" as well. Michelle Obama softened her appearance, her deliverance, and gave the American people (at least the Democrats), the appearance the Obama's are just a lucky, hard working couple, who made sacrifices (to not working in "big law firms") working as "community advisors."

However, for some Americans who do follow politics, look at the whole message (not the drama, flowing video screens, and yick-yacking smiling loving Obama kids, all choreographed), there were flaws. Michelle only mentioned the troops one time, yet spoke of ice cream dates, big brother "vetting" Barack on the basketball court, and churning over her father to no end. She did not speak about the things the Obama family has achieved, with the houses, vacations, the majority of the "extras" they have (most Americans, will never touch, or smell), and the constant generic "American Dream Theme," was tedious. Especially, if you are giving hope to the whole of society (even "reaching down to people," as the video which announced her said, rather than reaching for people), then you should be proud of going to Harvard, Princeton, working at law firms, and what you gave up. However, this was all tamped down. Along with the facts, Barack Obama's family is not shored up, half brothers are making $1 a day in Kenya and other African countries, her mother was not mentioned (other than getting Barack to college), and finally she did not delve into any of Barack’s past, with the other figures he had helping him (Rev. Wright, William Ayers, Union Organizers, and the Chicago Daly System, of the south side, which is what drew them there to succeed in politics). Saying Hillary Clinton, was one of the people in the litany of others, who have hammered and worked their tail off, like the steel workers of America and middle to lower class people of America, was ridiculous. Of course, this is "reality," but they would not speak on this, with their base.

Michelle Obama hit a home run tonight, because the simple fact is, Michelle Obama only needed to sell herself and her family tonight. Talking about her father, who died from MS, never complaining thru any pain, and always having a smile on his face. Even, using two canes to walk across the kitchen to give her mother a kiss, was a bullet to the hearts of the bleeding heart democrat audience, and most of the political people, just passing by this election process (maybe tuning into the process for the first time tonight). She (Michelle) sold the American Dream, with a soft shell wrapping, in a completely new way, with the covering being from a black woman, with a solid family, from top to bottom. She did not come off as the woman who said, "I have never been proud of my country, until today, with Barack Obama running for President." The real test will be how many people paid attention, to the details, the mundane ice cream dates (compared to the college kid working a job, going to college, to pay for his sisters health care), the family she had (compared to the family that was AWOL, for Barack Obama), and finally the anyone can have the American Dream and Barack Obama is the man who will bring it (yet, she embellished Obama bringing the troops legislation to get them health care and to "end the war responsibly").

Rating for Michelle Obama, from an Independent, Disabled, White Man (in the political fray 24/7), time will tell if the American people bought the "Ice Cream Dream Speech," or if they expected more talk on Barack Obama, who will be leading our country and the mistakes (which were covered up, or not discussed, yet may go by the ordinary American). However, for a DNCC speech, I would give her a 75% positive rating (because I will sell, most independents and "regular Americans" short, to eat up, the "Ice Cream Date Dream Life" speech up).

What do you think?

From DMAN, at TheThoughtSpigot.com
http://thethoughtspigot.com/
"Where the news, sports, politics, and public opinion collide in one site"

During DNCC, McCain Needs This "Pre-October" Surprise

John McCain has to make a solid decision for his Vice Presidential candidate, obviously. There are several things, on the surface, McCain would like to have in a VP candidate: possibly a younger man/woman (Kay Bailey Hutchinson, TX, Bobby Jindel, LA.), a person with economic experience (Romney, Mass.), foreign and geopolitical experience (Tom Ridge), or he could go with a combination and overall "gel" candidate (Lieberman). However, McCain, who is not known for his dramatic demeanor, should actually go for the surprise candidate, during the DNCC (Democratic National Committee Convention), announcing on Tuesday, or Wednesday. The surprise and possibly the candidate to put McCain over the top is Mike Huckabee.

Barack Obama has Joe Biden for his candidate, for VP, and Biden serves as a mouth piece, bull dog type, who will go out and say the things Barack will not be comfortable with. Also, Biden is not in the same vein as the "new government," or the Hope & Change message, as he has been in Washington for twenty years. The only thing Biden adds to Obama is he is a complete wild card, who could say and do anything (based on his long track record) and he has judicial (he was head of the Judicial Senate Committee) and Foreign experience (he was also the head of the Armed Services Committee) in the Senate.

Therefore, McCain is not under a crushing force to pick the perfect candidate. He needs to pick a candidate that will counter Biden and also will limit the potential Obama attack adds, or keep them to a minimum. The most important thing John McCain needs in his VP candidate is someone who will be able to roll with the punches, speak and counter anything asked of him, a person with fresh ideas, and the most important thing is having someone that is a complete surprise and Americans will like (feel like they are close to the VP candidate). Mike Huckabee is this candidate, in all of the places, John McCain needs.

Mike Huckabee, first, has been making all of the rounds on Fox, CNN, and all the Sunday shows over the last two months, so the American people know who he is. Huckabee was the last Republican to be in the race, against McCain, building and getting to know a lot of people along the way. People respond to Huckabee and McCain is very friendly with him, even when "The Huck-A-Bus" kept on rolling, after he was completely out of the race mathematically (yet continued, because of the principal). Huckabee is a strong presence on social issues and he was excellent, as a two time governor (Arkansas), having a surplus in both of his terms. Therefore, he fills an economic void. However, the biggest thing Mike Huckabee would bring to a McCain/Huckabee Ticket, is the fact he can banter with anyone in the world. Joe Biden is a blow hard, who gets flustered (when pushed), and Huckabee is quite quippy, never seems to let anyone get under his skin, and would be a perfect fit against Biden in the debates.

John McCain does not get along with Mitt Romney and there is no guarantee, Romney can bring Michigan to McCain. Bobby Jindel is pretty young and it may seem like McCain is picking Jindel, simply for the age factor. Tom Ridge is pro-choice and Lieberman is a Democrat, so they would hurt McCain in a big way. Aside from Kay Bailey-Hutchinson, who is a dark horse, Mike Huckabee is the best thing that could ever happen to the McCain ticket. Regardless, if Sean Hannity, Limbaugh, and Anne Coulter like him, the American people and American Republicans like him. Plus, his speaking skills, like ability, and the other things above, far outweigh any of the other candidates. If John McCain does not pick Huckabee, as a "Pre-October Surprise," to take the wind out of the DNCC sails, he will be playing with fire and shooting into the wind.

From DMAN, at TheThoughtSpigot.com
http://thethoughtspigot.com/
"Where the news, sports, politics, and public opinion collide in one site"

Biden Minus For Obama, Being Only An Attack Dog

Bobby Jindel, Mitt Romney, or maybe Tom Ridge for John McCain's Vice Presidential pick? Only John McCain knows, or is close to knowing, but Barack Obama has his VP pick, in Joe Biden. Biden is more than an "experience pick," he is a hit man/bull dog, who will say anything, at any time. In his first speech, as the Vice Presidential pick of Obama, Biden used these two quotes (smacking McCain, before he is even on the campaign trail):

1. "Ladies and gentleman, your kitchen table is like mine. You sit there before, after, you put the kids to bed and you talk, and you talk about what you need. You talk about how much you need to pay the bills. Well, ladies and gentleman, that is not a worry that John McCain needs to worry. It is a pretty hard experience, wondering which of his seven kitchen tables to sit at."

2. "Ladies and Gentleman, the reckoning is now. The reality is we must answer the call, or we will risk the harshest verdict and version in history. These times call for a total change in Washington's 'world view,' These times call for more than just a 'good soldier," They require a wise leader."

Wow! Senator Biden, where to begin? Are you really sitting at your table at night, wondering where you will be short, paying your bills and putting food on your table, with your kids in bed, with your wife? The answer is plainly no, this is politics as usual, and it is not "new government/Washington" with the utmost speed, because of the risk of "failure and the harshest verdict in history." You are a rich senator, of 20 years. How about taking a shot at McCain's service to our country, did your serve? Sure it takes more than a soldier, to be a good President, look at Clinton, Bush (to be fair), Nixon, Carter, even yourself, you didn't serve in Vietnam. Although, it does take character, which I do believe you have, Mr. Biden, but Barack Obama does not, so he needs you for these baseless attacks. Which you have now shown, 20 minutes into being the VP nominee (officially), that you are more than willing to throw, get in the mud, and hit John McCain with everything you have and what the Obama Machine wants you to do? However, Mr. Biden, you did say yourself:

1. "I would never be a vice president."
2. "I would never serve under Senator Obama, as a cabinet member."
3. "In the debates, you said Barack Obama had no experience to be President of the United States."

Mr. Biden, it sounds like you are filling the role, Barack and Michelle Obama need, right now and down the stretch. You will be the attack dog, the mouth piece, and the one who will say things Obama (either can't say or) won't say. I hope you are happy with both, doing the dirty work and also going back on three major statements you have made, in just the last three months. It show a lot of sound and great judgment, something Barack Obama lacks, as well. Good luck with that, Mr. Biden, though. You will need it.

From DMAN, at TheThoughtSpigot.com
http://thethoughtspigot.com/
"Where the news, sports, politics, and public opinion collide in one site"

Obama's VP (Biden) Irrelevant, He Must Make Two Choices

Vice President, Veep, or VP for Obama, coming into the weekend, is not a real traction issue (unless he picks Hillary Clinton). Obama has gaffed and blundered his way around the world, over the last three to six weeks (depending how you look at it). When first starting out, the man of "Hope & Change" was above the "traditional down in the mud politics, would bring the American System of getting a new President to respect and decency, and he would also be a transparent and "for the people" candidate. He has been the front runner, "Democratic Nominee" for over five weeks now. What has happened, with Mr. Obama?

I have the privilege, if you call it that, of being in a "battle ground state/swing state," Missouri. Therefore, I have seen a lot of different things from Barack Obama. Every time John McCain says anything close to negative, calls him out, or even says something true, but can be construed as negative, Obama hits back (within hours), with an ad of his own. So much for being positive and a beacon of light, now everyone can see the negative ads, poured over the Olympics and all the other channels, every night (as well as, negative McCain Ads). Then Obama promised (after securing the nomination), he would have a complete and candid look at his policies. Not so much, either, changing his stance on, just the Capital Gains Tax four times (in words in interviews, on his web site, and on the stump, depending where he is at in the country). Therefore, a tit-for-tat attitude, vacillating on issues like taxes, abortion issues with the "Saddleback Church Interview," Rezco, completely forgetting about Dr. Jeremiah Wright ("His spiritual mentor and someone who he could not denounce, or it would be like denouncing the whole black community") are all by the way side, along with several other barnacles of inconvenience."

Roughly, two months away from the nomination and the Democratic Convention in the bag, a vice presidential candidate is not going to make Barack Obama into a president, worth voting for (anymore, than one is for McCain). Obama needs two things to win, and swing things into his corner for the remainder of the election. Senator Barack Obama's "handlers" (like Susan Davis, his foreign policy advisor), who let him hide (vacationing in Hawaii), while Russia was attacking a sovereign nation, in Georgia. Davis coming out with the answer/comments first. Then Obama comes out for a two minute soft cell message "let the Euro's handle it, and let cooler heads prevail" is not going to cut it. Of course there is only one President, but the two men who want to be President need not hide and go silent (Obama), because foreign policy is not your cup of tea. Barack has to come out to the American people like a real person, as he did against Hillary, making McCain look like a "same old, same old politician." Every single time he gets a chance to have a position, he should take it. His speaking abilities are great, he is 100% believable in front of a TelePrompTer, and if he will come back out and spew all of the words he was "back in the day" (to beat the "Clinton Machine"), and it will sound better than anything coming out of McCain's mouth. He has to stop playing politics, knowing the democratic base will stick with him (regardless of what he says, for the most part) and the independents want someone to believe in. By the time independent voters know Obama may not be able to capitalize on all he has promised, it will be to late and he will have won. (Let's be honest, even though the President of the United States is the most powerful man in the world, he/she still has only limited power, in today's geopolitical world)

The second thing he must do is stop going negative and keep hitting McCain every time (McCain) opens his hole. The American people are not wanting the same old Kerry vs. Bush, Gore vs. Bush, Bush vs. McCain, and all the other politicians looking to bash each other's skulls in, with negative ads, words, commercials, and blogs. It is just tedious. If Obama's handlers will let him go and start talking on all venues (Fox News, CNN Lou Dobbs, and shows besides SNL, Jon Stewart and the "elitist viewed shows"), speak out on specific issues (even if he does not give a specific answer and/or statement) on the issue, and finally come back to the positive candidate (the "Savior Candidate, if you will). Obama has a gift for speaking, sounding and looking Presidential, and he is more convincing then any other politician, in the last fifty to sixty years. He has to speak out on drilling, jobs, go back to health care (which has completely gone away, Obama has not spoken on health care, and gotten any news/media coverage on it in over a month), and finally he "must" speak out on the issues Republicans (who are socially independent) and Independents want to hear. Obama has to tell that group, he will never abandon them, health care will save the middle class, he is pro gun, stay away from abortion, and make sure he is the candidate they once saw and believed in.

Barack Obama's VP candidate is irrelevant. It he doesn't follow the above, he is going to be sweating every night and next day's newspapers, from now until the day after the election. Seeing Obama responding to ads from McCain every other commercial, while I and Claire McCaskill are watching Michael Phelps win gold after gold is nothing more than tedious. Release the hounds and ditch the handlers, come out with the wild and free flowing speeches you had against Hillary (not to mention bury Hillary and Bill after the convention, once and for all), and quit responding to McCain's negative ads and things he is saying. Be your own man, stand up for the issues people want to hear again, and finally "BE THE BIGGER PERSON/CANDIDATE AND FOLLOW THRU ON THE PROMISE YOU ONCE MADE." "I am not the politician of days of old, and I will make our country great and strong again thru my policies, my beliefs, and thru what you want." If you don't, then good luck getting sleep tonight, every other night, and continue to watch your hair turn more shades of gray, than the paint shop at HQ.

From DMAN, at TheThoughtSpigot.com
http://thethoughtspigot.com/
"Where the news, sports, politics, and public opinion collide in one site"

McCain & Obama, Are They The Best America Has To Offer?

Winston Churchill, Ronald Reagan, Abraham Lincoln, Ghandi, and George Washington all started, in life, as "just children". There surroundings, overall thought and practices, and choices formed them into the some of the greatest leaders of all time. Barack Obama and John McCain (for America) are the only two leaders left, to lead our country, by vote in 2008.

These two possible American Presidents are what the parties have offered, and what the people have to vote for. There are only two questions to be asked and possibly fixed (in the future). Out of the Democratic, Republican, Independent, all other US parties and the population of our country, are these two men are the most qualified, will lead the country thru whatever comes, and can the find remedies to the most important and hardest questions in the country (much less the world)? The other questions, assuming these are not the two best men to lead, where are the great leaders of tomorrow and how does America cultivate them?


From DMAN, at TheThoughtSpigot.com
http://thethoughtspigot.com/
"Where the news, sports, politics, and public opinion collide in one site"

CONGRESS BLOCKING AMERICAN'S & KILLING MORAL

How far is to far, when government steps into people's everyday lives, and decisions they make? Congress Democrats were speaking, on the FDA, regulating smoking and smokers. Sheryl Crow, hardly a politician (still a person with a large forum), is asking for people to not "spare any squares" (as in reference, to the "Sienfeld" episode). Crow is speaking out for people to utilize and only use a regulated amount of toilet paper. Barack Obama came out today and made this assertion, "There are things you can do individually, though, to save energy. Making sure your tires are properly inflated — simple thing. But we could save all the oil that they're talking about getting off drilling — if everybody was just inflating their tires? And getting regular tune-ups? You'd actually save just as much!"

Democrats, in both the Congress and Senate, are gushing over themselves on "no drilling, no nuclear power, no shale recovery, no off shore drilling." Demanding for "the people/the tax payers" for conservation (led by Nancy Pelosi, Harry Ried, and Sen. Leahy), investing in "new and clean technologies" and stating "more people should be using bicycles, walking, and public transportation" (while they continue to do whatever they want). Today, the Democrats voted to not stay on Capitol Hill and go vacationing (again), over the next ten days. Rather than, staying to solve and have an up/down vote, on whether to lift the moratorium on drilling (in the US). A step President Bush has already taken, which immediately started the prices of oil to drop (now at $126.00 a barrel), lifting the Presidential ban on drilling. However, Bush's act will go untouched, because Congress also has to lift the moratorium, as well, for the private sector to begin drilling. Yet, the Congress (led by Democrats who would rather pander to their base, then help the people they are supposed to serve) will not veto the act, which will not allow new drilling options (that 76% of Americans want).

Over the last year, against the people's voice and overall majority thought, the Democratic lead Congress (at a 17-19% approval rating, the lowest of all time) and Senate have gone against the people and wasted tax payer's time and money. Here is seven items Democrats decided to act, vote, or pander on, instead of, 7 things the people/tax payers wanted.

Seven Things Either on the Congressional/Senate Floor, or Worked On:

1. Working on fast food acts, not serving people who are to heavy for their height.
2. In the last two days, making sure to take the time, to honor last year's Hiesman Trophy Winner.
3. Several meetings in Congress on Impeaching President Bush (when he has 5 months left, in his service to the country)
4. A revamp of the Consumer Product Safety Commission, which oversees toy safety
5. Attempting to invoke cloture on a House-passed bill (HR 6331) that would delay a 10.6% reduction to Medicare physician fees.
6. Bill aimed to get some 17 year old kids, "preregistration," and allow some to vote (boosting the youth vote, which Obama and Democrats would prosper from).
7. Looking to for an "Iraq Pullout" (in early '08) vote, while President Bush promised to veto

Seven What The People Wanted Done, By Over 65% (most over 76%):

1. Pull the congressional moratorium off of the off shore and other drilling.
2. An up/down vote on the 73 judges, President Bush has put forth, over a year ago (yet no vote has happened, and it will not happen, as Democrats are hoping Obama wins, allowing him to select 73 new liberal/democrat friendly judges, for life).
3. A bill and working solution to the sanctuary cities, illegal immigration, and immigration civil rights violations (for the illegal immigrant being paid, less than minimum wage, etc..)
4. A COMPLETE resolution from the FDA and CDC on the Salmonella Case (which effected up to 30-50,000 people, but making 1300 sick for sure)
5. A tax bill that continues credit or deductions for research and development, state and local sales taxes, tuition, children and charitable contributions. 6. A bill to eliminate new pay cuts for doctors who treat Medicare patients. 7. Important measures giving direction to the FAA and the Defense Department.

The people are not getting represented, in Congress, the Senate, or in the White House. This coming election, between Obama and John McCain, and Congressman/Senate seats, is set of huge decisions, for all Americans. The economy, gas and food prices, the countries deficit, national security, Iraq, Iran, Russia, China, the dollar and national debt, health care, social security, and countless other issues are on the table, with the newly elected leaders. Just the "Macro" side of this election will dictate whether big government (Obama), where the CDC, education, health care, immigration, etc...etc... will be in the hands of huge government agencies, built by higher taxes. Some, may want that. John McCain is looking to keep the decisions of the people's lives, to themselves and big government out. Obama is for Planned Parenthood (3rd term/partial birth abortions and judges who back all Roe V. Wade). McCain is not for abortion, and definitely (his words) "will not be appointing judges who are for left of center." McCain is for drilling, nuclear, wind, solar, shale exploration, and every kind of new and clean energy possible. Barack is not for nuclear, drilling, and will only say that he is for new, clean technologies (without any real policies for energy stated, he is a question mark).

Americans are on the clock to research, make educational decisions about who they want, and then get out and vote. Whether voting for a Democrat, Republican, Independent, or Libertarian, it is time for everyone to get out and do their duty. If you do not vote, then you do not have anything to say, after the election seasons are over. Period!

From DMAN, at TheThoughtSpigot.com
http://thethoughtspigot.com/
"Where the news, sports, politics, and public opinion collide in one site"

CNN's "GPS" SHOWS VACILLATING OBAMA VIEWS, ON FOREIGN POLICY

Sunday, on a spectacular new television show (Fareed Zakaria, "GPS"), Barack Obama was interviewed, one on one, with Fareed Zakaria. The interview was not the "conventional drivel" on Jessie Jackson comments, Dr. Jeremiah Wright, or any of the other non-issue topics, the mainstream media is churning out. Instead, Zakaria provided a balanced and poignant interview, with an array of questions above the belt and needing specific answers. On CNN Sunday, Obama showed just the razor sharp wit and his expansive verbiage, to gloss over certain issues and give just enough, for the illusion of a complete answer. However, after reading the transcript and listening to the interview twice, there is a distinct glimpse into an Obama Presidency, in the foreign policy realm.

In the CNN/"GPS" interview, Obama was one on one with a man, holding a vast expanse of knowledge of the Muslim world, foreign governments and Middle East hot beds. Plus, Fareed Zakaria is a straight down the middle interviewer and man.Discussing Iraq and Iran, Obama has changed his far left and anti-Iraq war stance attitude. Originally, Obama stated, "On day one, of his Presidency, he would be pulling one to two brigades out of Iraq. Leveling the American presence down, to fully stop the war, within eighteen months." Over the last 6-7 weeks, since Clinton dropped out of the race, he jogged back to the right in his position, "I would have to not only check with the commanders on the ground, assess the situation, discuss with the Iraqi government, and then we will find out the best way to leave Iraq." A difference in words and strategies, since Clinton is gone.

Iran was an issue Obama was not as vocal about, as with China and Russia. The "change" in his potential policy was not a complete turn around, but a change for him, America, and definitely a divide, with McCain. The difference is Obama wanting to talk (as a President), face to face, with some (maybe, all) of our enemies and nations in distinct contrast to American interest.

Russia and China huge problems,with a variety of issues, but nuclear proliferation and the constant "vote against America" in the United Nations (against North Korea, Iran, Darfur, and tactical issues it's allies have/are using). Disarming North Korea, thru "6" party talks, was the only way to disengage their nuclear facilities. One on one talk failed, talks thru China and thru Japan failed, and UN sanctions failed, as well. Iran is a completely different animal, compared to North Korea, in a multitude of different ways, and 1-1 talks are not a move at all.
Consensus is a word good for trades in baseball, the stock market, and hundreds of other everyday terms, deals, and actions. People who will lay down their lives at the blink of an eye (for beliefs, to kill others not like them) is a hard objective to achieve. China holding trillions of dollars of our national debt and Russia going the way of "KGB Days with Putin" are not with the US,(hence, America's missile systems in Poland, et. Al). Obama's statement on "GPS" was, "When I am President, I would work for a full consensus, finding a consensus with everyone, including Russia and China. Also, not making a "consensus" with the twisting of arms and withholding goodies from other countries, not following our ways, or what we are working towards."

Barack Obama is one of the more gifted speakers in the world today. However, he is the most liberal senator, in the senate and he continues to have no actual senate policies, or combined legislation. The interview with Fareed Zakaria was a subtle and poignant interview. Showing Obama's "flexibility in his future policies." Iran firing long range missiles, building and constructing nuclear weapons, and having a massive border with Iraq, makes overseas policies huge. However, aside from the more than subtle changes in the interview on foreign issues, Obama has the same kind of vacillation on the domestic issues. Where does this man stand, on anything, and what has he actually accomplished, in his short political life, to be the President of the United States?

From DMAN, at TheThoughtSpigot.com
http://thethoughtspigot.com/
"Where the news, sports, politics, and public opinion collide in one site"

To Have A Friend, To Be A Friend

To have a friend is one of most choice things, in all of the world. Out of the thousands, possibly millions, of people who pass thru the lives of everyone, finding someone who is trustworthy, allows a person to be themselves (while also showing their faults in order to allow them to become a better person), sincere, and most of all will be in a person's life thru the thickest of tar pits and the lightest of feathers. Some say, "this is a good guy," "She is a good person" and "they would make a good friend." However, the ultimate test is for a person to say, "he/she is a great friend" (in the deepest root, of the meaning).

A notable quotes, "If a person can find two, or three, real friends, they are truly blessed." In a world dwelling in all of the negatives, scandals, and overall pitfalls of life, sometimes it is very important to appreciate the friend(s) one has. A true friend balances out the bad, pointing out the good. They may have a criticism, but it is from the heart and only to enhance another person's interest and personality (not to hurt, scorn, or be-little a person). They do not come from a place of dissent, but of love, hope and an overall place of goodness. A true friend is not jealous, is not passive, nor over the top, but brings out a brilliant blend of another person, for the betterment of the person.

Do you have any true friends? If you do, have you told them how much they mean to you and how much you appreciate them, for not what they do, but who they are? Lastly, are you a true friend to anyone? Turn the first two paragraphs around, on yourself. Look deep into your soul, and see if you love someone for who they are (not what they do, what they give/bring to you, or any other one sided thing for your own gain, at their expense), what they are about (the attributes in their overall being) do you appreciate them in their good times and bad (or do you trickle away from them, only soaking up their great ventures, like a vulture), and are you showing your love and overall affection for them (not for what/where it gets you, or how it makes you feel). Sometime, it is very tough to have friends, but it is a million times harder to be a true friend. Obviously, only a person can answer this for themselves.

Hopefully, most people have a friend. However, everyone can always try to be the best friend, to another, they possibly can be. If you do have a friend, tell them how much they mean to you and yours. If you do not have anyone, try to look for the good in everyone, as you never know when, or where a special person may come from.

Inspired by: Harding, Los, Brian, & J

From DMAN, at TheThoughtSpigot.com
http://thethoughtspigot.com/
"Where the news, sports, politics, and public opinion collide in one site"

66 Years Ago

Sixty-six years ago, the United States made it illegal, punishable by up to $500,000 and 1-5 years in jail (depending on the infraction, how the crime was committed, and other circumstances), for crushing (poaching in any way) one egg, or killing a bald eagle. The law was put into effect, for the "American Bird" and also for conservation, as the bird was becoming extinct. After this July 4th, holiday weekend, it seems evident the project was a complete success. Eagles have continued soaring all over the United States, numbers are way up, and the laws continue on the books of our great nation.

In third world countries, human rights violating countries and even in small backwoods towns, jungles, and thru the cracks of society there continues to be massive violations to women (in the form of the cutting of women's private areas off, for fear of to liberal of girls and religious practices). Countries like Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Liberia, and countless others in Africa are using rape, machetes, and other forms of torture to enhance political and economic gain. Some expect the atrocities in these countries and states, but equate a massive and growing problem, in America.

The sixty-six years, the country has made an open season and struggle to preserve eagles and their eggs. However, in the very same country (since January 22, 1973, thru 2001), it is estimated (only estimate numbers from 1998-2001, the rest of the numbers) have been more than 40 million abortions. The numbers, per year, since 1975 have been over 1 million abortions a year, since the third year of abortion on demand. Obviously, if divided out, it totals 92 abortions, babies killed, or embryos taken out (whichever makes it easiest for you to digest it) a day, for over 28 years. (92 abortions X 10858 days (in 28 years) = 40 million)

An eagle's egg is "an embryo," (by definition), being the egg has a potential healthy eagle in it, waiting for only time and nature, to take place. A woman who is pregnant has an egg in her, that is waiting for time and nature, to take place. For sixty-six years, a person could not kill an eagle embryo, without it being an official crime (not to mention the moral and ethical implications). Therefore, the real question is when did a bird's life, become more important than a human life? Why are people protecting animals, more than the unborn? Just questions, but only individuals can answer them (the abortionists, the women who are getting abortions, and anyone affiliated with the abortion industry).

From DMAN, at TheThoughtSpigot.com
http://thethoughtspigot.com/
"Where the news, sports, politics, and public opinion collide in one site"

D.I.R.E.C.T. ENERGY PLAN

Comprehensive, progressive, hope and change are just some of the buzz words, of the future election and candidates participating. However, there are very few fresh and hard hitting ideas, in either Barack Obama, or John McCain's camps. The economy and high gas prices are two of the major issues, maybe the top issues, of the upcoming campaign. Yet, there is no singular solution for either, of the problems, hitting millions of Americans, daily. If one of the candidates would look at this "comprehensive" idea, then run with it. It would magnify the candidate, as a caregiver of the people, the sense of not cowering to lobbyists, and it would provide an immediate action on prices and future stimulation for "global warming technologies." A simple acronym, D.I.R.E.C.T., could win an election (or put a candidate, in the "cat bird seat").

D.I.R.E.C.T. ENERGY PLAN

D-- Drill and a mandate to aggressively drill. Drilling in ANWAR, off both coasts, farther east in the gulf (not in the everglades), South Dakota and Colorado, are all attainable and will be a boon, some sooner than others. The farthest drilling points, away from already standing pipelines, would be eight to ten years away. Although, drilling off the coasts and in the gulf, where some oil platforms/pipelines already exist, or are readily attainable (easy places to drill and build) will bear fruit, within two to four years (maximum).

I-- Integration. There are all types of energy, the United States can and must use. Wind, solar, gas, oil, hybrid technology, and many more are not only here to use, but are on the cusp of being in the US markets. American people, scientists, and industry giants must utilize and compromise to integrate all forms of energy into American hands. Politicians must look at the United States as a whole, not just taking care of there own state and getting reelected. Massachusetts and Kansas will not have wind mills in their states (Mass. because of the "elitist attitudes" and not wanting to "clog up waterways," so they can boat. Kansas is balking, because of farming industry and overall not wanting to "clog up the flatlands"). America has the most coal, of any country, in the world. Clean coal technology and massive coal production must be part of the solution. Shale drilling, in Colorado is a must, in order to utilize all possible resources and possibly making gains, scientists did not know previously. In the EU, nuclear energy has proven to be clean, but must be thought out, planned, and is a solution for problems in the long run. Finally, there must be more refineries built, for the ever-growing need and the US hasn't built one in over thirty years.

R-- Regulation. Obviously, there are CEO's in the oil, gas, and energy companies, who are completely out of control. Making millions of dollars a year, while most people are barely able to fill their tanks. Regulation of the energy companies (oil, gas, wind, nuclear, and any other kinds, in the future) is the only way to allow for common goals, not just massive prices. Regulation in not just profits, but also in carbon emissions, new oil and gas drilling conservation projects (so there are limited, if any "Exxon Valdise" problems), and an overall regulation to bring together conservation people and energy people, under a common flag and set of goals/rules.

E-- Eradication of small speculators and making the large speculators buy 50% of the product the are speculating. The overall impact of smaller speculators, on Wall Street, have oil more than 60% over what a barrel of oil costs, in America (meaning if speculators were held to task, made to invest/buy at least 50% of what they are speculating on, a barrel of oil would be $50-60, not $140.00 and rising). The overall market needs speculation and the men/women who are doing there job. However, there needs to be a complete inspection and management of smaller speculators, who are sticking it to the prices and American people. If speculators, thru Congress, were made to purchase 50% of oil product, it would eliminate the smaller/problem speculators, decreasing prices immediately and putting money in Americans pockets.

C-- Conservation. There should never be any mining, drilling, wind power, or any other energy needs at the cost of our most precious resources, like the everglades, Grand Canyon, and Mount Rushmore. When nuclear, oil, coal and shale technologies come into play, there must be a massive amount of conservation people and experts at the forefront, to keep the energy companies at bay. However, there must be a give and take, in the conservation portion. Recently in California, "the right price and right place" gave way to a common energy outlook. Like in the conservation of animals, some of the best conservation people are the hunters, fishermen, and smaller groups of people. The same must happen for the energy conservation. Big conservation corporations, lobbyists, and some far leftists should not be the major leaders, the same for the energy side (with the major Exxon, Coal, Nuclear pushers of energy), as they will always end at a stand still, with nothing being achieved.

T-- Transparency. Not one thing will be achieved, in America, under the banner of energy expansion, if there is not a complete form of transparency. The government, energy companies, and conservation associations all must be held under a complete banner of money, land, and overall opaque transactions and deals. The United States people are the ones who are being held at gun point, due to the high prices, small speculators, and high end lobbyists now. Therefore, the United States people must be able to see every single step, dollar, acre of land, oil platform and refinery being built on the Internet (on the D.I.R.E.C.T. dot Org web site). If there is no transparency, there will be constant corruption, lobbyist obstruction, nothing will be achieved, and American's will continue to languish under the same corrupt and boorish rule.

D.I.R.E.C.T. Energy Plan, will allow for all voices to be heard, both immediate, middle, and long term planning to be accomplished, and finally it will bring a comprehensive model to the American people. The model will be both transparent and fruitful on all levels, and the American people will be able to monitor the government and the individual companies, utilizing the energy and land we all rely on. Finally, this plan must be adopted by someone with foresight, a constant vision of today and tomorrow, plus the back bone to stand up to anyone who fly's in the face of the plan. If there is not a leader to enable this to happen, then a plan should not be implemented at all, allowing the American people to continue to be bullied, overcharged, and manipulated. The United States must act now, or like the Roman Empire, America will crumble under it's own weight, greed, and elitist attitudes.
From DMAN, at TheThoughtSpigot.com
http://thethoughtspigot.com/
"Where the news, sports, politics, and public opinion collide in one site"

Step Out Of Your Comfort Zone

People may, or may not, come together to celebrate a given event, based on the "time they have," "where they are at in their lives" or "the kind of relationship, they had with a father, or a mother" during these holidays. Holidays, like father's day, mother's day, Memorial Day, and other "non-major" holidays (Christmas, Thanksgiving, et. Al.), sometimes go by the way side. By comparison, even Capitalism, does not give these holidays the due, the general "full court press" (if you will), and overall hammering home of sales, deals, and pandering for American's hard earned cash. However, Father's Day and Mother's Day are the only two holidays (not counting the religious holidays, for some), in which, there is an all inclusive nature. Everyone has a father and a mother, regardless of the relationship, lack of relationship, or maybe not knowing a parent (or both). Without a father and a mother, there would be no "YOU," period.

For this Sunday, being Father's day, some father's are around (a child's whole life), other father's divorce wives (sticking around, or staying in the children's lives), and then there are those who father a child and split immediately, never to see the child again. Regardless, father's of all stripes are still the person who made half of you. Every person on the planet has a father, no matter how close, or distant they were, a man is half of your genealogy.

There are a lot of things people say, do, and quibble over, but there is very little that truly makes a difference, in the world today. In order to make a difference, a person has to make a conscious choice, to do something correct, effect someone other than themselves, and most of the time, it involves getting out of a person's comfort zone. Most people do not like to take that stroll out of the "comfort zone" and they stick to the mundane. Only stepping out of the "comfort zone" and making a choice to do something for someone, like your father/mother, can come from you. This only happens once in a while, true change, or that scary step out of the comfort zone. However, when it happens, it hits you and the recipient, like a lightening bolt.

Time is not on anyone's side, "On a long enough time line, the survival rate of every person, eventually drops to zero and you die." Today could be the day, you step out of your comfort zone, speak to your Father and/or Mother, and give thanks for them giving you life. As without them, you would not be here. Therefore, regardless of your relationship with your family, father, and/or mother, you still owe them everything. Take a small step, by making a phone call, dropping a card off into their mailbox (not mailing it, but drive by and leave it), make a call and ask to stop by and talk, or spend actual "quality time" thanking your father/mother, or even stopping by the cemetery (where some flowers, a sit down chat, and reminiscing over old times, with just you and a past loved one). Nobody else can make you do it, choose for you, and you are responsible. Life is here and now, it is up to you, what you do.

OBAMA WINS, CLINTON OPINES, "DREAM TICKET" IN THE WORKS?

Barack Obama is now the democratic nominee, and Hillary Clinton is officially out of the running, for President of the United States. After fifty-four states, primaries and caucuses, the die has been cast for "the hope and change" ticket, of Obama. On the steamy night, of June 3rd, actually all three major politicians (McCain, Clinton, and Obama) gave speeches. Obama and McCain spoke about the upcoming general election, facing off on the diverse issues to come and they both were saying (to some extent) "bring it on." However, Clinton's speech was more of a victory speech, than a concession speech. Odd, for a candidate, who had just been eliminated (officially), from becoming president. Yet, it did not stop her from saying things like, "We are not done yet" and "Our work is far from over." Also, before the election results poured in, the "Clinton Campaign" said, "Hillary would be interested in being the vice presidential candidate, with Barack Obama."

In less than thirty-six hours, Hillary Clinton went from "we are going all the way," to "I would consider being a VP." Pretty interesting, to say the least. The primaries are over, Hillary Clinton has the popular vote (or close to it, considering whose numbers, one believes), and she has more political clout than ever. In comes, the "Dream Ticket" talk, of Barack Obama (president) and Hillary Clinton (VP). Although, Obama has not actually won over the full support of the "middle" portion of the democratic party and there is a rift (to say the least) between him and Clinton, the hype has gone viral. Whether the democrats supported Clinton, or Obama, there is no guarantee they will support them, as a unit.

Barack Obama has sown up the nomination and will be heading into the fall staking a claim to his policies, proving to the American people he is not a "typical politician" and most importantly give the majority of the electorate reason to vote for him, unequivocally. Change and Hope, are the two themes/staples, in the Obama quest for the presidency. However, if he decides to pick Hillary to run and possibly lead, at his side, for the vice presidential pick, he risks losing one of those words ("change"). Hillary alone, is a staple in American politics, but with Hillary comes Bill Clinton and he brings a completely different dimension. No resemblance of "change" is possible, when a former president is in the White House, while you are trying to take the country in a new direction. Then there will be the barrage of 527 advertising, republican pundits, and other schills who will be looking to undermine the overall campaign, of the "Dream Ticket," by pulling out the countless bad stump moments, the Utube.com footage from Obama's church, calls on Obama's judgment (with the Wright, Ayers, Father Pfleger, Trinity United, and others), and the bad Michelle Obama footage.

Hillary and Bill Clinton have more bad press between them, than ten Obama's. However, most of their laundry has been out in the open and drudged thru countless times. The real question is going to be, with the Clintons, is will they be able to get along with the Obama's. Health care in America, is a major issue, and the Clinton/Obama health care packages do not work together, so Clinton will have to give in to Obama (as he could be the president). Iraq is virtually the same thing, with a different issue, Clinton has made herself into a "hawk" (on Iraq and national security). Obama, who will be president, has based his whole campaign on bringing the troops home within 6 months, negotiating with Iran (Syria and Venezuela) without precondition, and other things that are in complete opposition to Clinton's stance. How will this work? Will people vote for a ticket of convenience, to win, rather than to look at each issue and how they differ? Will the Clintons and the Obamas be able to bury there disdain and problems, to make a "Dream Ticket" at all? One can only imagine, at this point, but the prognostications have already begun and will continue, until Obama chooses a vice presidential candidate.

McCAIN MISTAKE ON, OBAMA "NO GO" TO IRAQ

John McCain has brought up a valid and important point, in the fact, Barack has not been to Iraq for over two years. Any man running to be the President of the United States, when the U. S. is in a war, must be in the fold, in tune with the men and women on the ground, and most importantly in complete lock step with the commanders on the ground and at CENTCOM. Even though, Obama is not for the war in Iraq and thinks it is a complete mistake, he must know what is going on there, with his presence. If he does not, he leaves himself open to countless problems when the troops come home, how to bring troops home, and is basically running the war (if he becomes president) from the "Ivory Towers" and safety of distance.

Barack Obama does have a problem, or perceived problem, with his national security experience and dealing with geopolitical problems. However, John McCain is the one that could be dueling with a double edge sword. The first thing McCain has made a huge mistake bringing this up (Obama's not being in Iraq, for over two years), this early. The topic may have not been brought up, for some time, or McCain could have played his political cards (hoping it was not brought up) using the issue during the debates, after the vice president choices, or more importantly when Obama "officially" has the nomination. Instead, McCain and the VetsForFreedom.org people, have decided now was the time. The cat is out of the bag now, so there is no putting it back in, and now the issue has time to cool down, Obama could go to Iraq and succeed (in the public and military eye), or a number of other scenarios.

The other side of the issue, the republicans are making Iraq a central theme in the election, which will allow other issues to bleed in with it. Down the line, Iran is going to come back to the front page, maybe sooner, rather than later. In Israel, where Michael Chertoff gave an interview with Fox News' Israeli correspondent, said, "Al-Qaeda is minor league team, where Hezbollah is in the Major Leagues." Problem number one, with that statement, Hezbollah is a proxy force for Iran, they are in and threatening Lebanon, and lastly the are constant threat to Israel. The second problem is Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, of Israel, is on his way out fast, thru corruption charges and lack of support. In steps a new prime minister front runner, Tzipi Livni, who is in lock step with protecting Israel (now), against any threat from Iran, Hezbollah, and any threat of nuclear weapons. Lastly, going into the election, McCain may have proven a point, in Obama not being in Iraq for two years is naive, "non-presidential" and/or misguided, but the door is now wide open for overall decision making. McCain voted for the war in Iraq, was a huge proponent of "the surge," and was on the wrong side in backing Pakistani and Saudi Leaders (for gas, drilling, going to war, etc..etc..).

In conclusion, McCain maybe has made some in rows, in showing Obama's lack of interest of the troops, a naive attitude about troop balance and attitude, and some other things overall. However, Obama, MoveOn.org, and any other 527 group (during the general election and during debates) has the door wide open on a bevy of issues. It may be six one way (with McCain winning in the press and American minds now) and half a dozen another (when Obama and crew open fire, deep into the general, causing McCain to be on his heals when it counts). All of this is still to be seen. One thing is for sure, McCain has not just proven a point in Barack Obama not visiting the troops, collaborating and overseeing what "the surge" has done (and failed at), and being in lock step (to take over on day one) with the boots on the ground. John McCain may have opened a door, leading to a multiple faceted picture, where the public will see what McCain wanted (in Obama) short term, but they will see McCain's overall record, where he has succeeded and failed, and most importantly the unknown of Iran, Israel and Israel's reaction to Iran, and the countless unknowns democratic pundits, 527 groups, bloggers, and Obama himself will be shooting, at McCain from here to eternity.

McClellan Book, Uniting Political Figures, of All Stripes

From The Blog Site: "The Thought Spigot" http://www.thethoughtspigot.com/Home_Page.html

Scott McClellan's new book, What Happened: Inside the Bush White House and Washington's Culture of Deception, has united both people in the White House and also press corp. people and major print, television, and radio figures. It is not a usual day, when people, from vastly different vantage points, in the political spectrum have the same view on a book and the person who wrote it. However, David Gregory (MSNBC Contributer/White House correspondent), Ari Fleischer (Fox Contributer/Former Bush Press Secretary), Dana Perino, Karl Rove, Dan Bartlett (All White House Staffers), and broadcast anchors Brian Williams and Katy Couric have all spoken out on the book, with basically the same vitriol. Diametrically opposed political people, hardened news people, and Washington insiders are all saying the same thing, in slightly different sentiment.

In this soon to be released book, in early June, he hammers President Bush, Karl Rove, Elliot Abrams, Scooter Libby, and other White House officials. In fact stating, "I had allowed myself to be deceived into unknowingly passing along a falsehood. It would ultimately prove fatal to my ability to serve the president effectively. I didn't learn that what I'd said was untrue until the media began to figure it out almost two years later." This quote involving the Valerie Plame story, Hurricane Katrina, and the war in Iraq. He continued saying that "he and President Bush" were victims of deception, in the Plame fiasco (ruled over by Rove, Libby, Cheney, and others). Yet, he hammered President Bush on his handling of Iraq and the Katrina disaster, and the whole press corps for not doing their jobs, in asking and probing for the correct questions, in the lead up and during the Iraq War.

If Scott McClellan is correct, stating the press didn't do their job, McClellan himself was completely deceived, and the White House is working against the American people. Why do all of the different figures (again, with VERY different political ideologies and views) say the following:

David Gregory, "I think the questions were asked (about the Iraq war before, and during). I think we pushed. I think we prodded. I think we challenged the President. I think, not only those in the White House Press Corps did that, but others in the landscape of the media did that.

Dana Perino (W. H. Press Secretary), "For those of us who fully supported him, before, during and after he was press secretary, we are puzzled. It is sad-this is not the Scott we knew."

Frances Fragos Townsend (Former Homeland Security Adv.) "Often times, the press secretary will be briefed, after, some of these more sensitive meetings. The press secretary does not participate in the briefings for the Secretary of Defense.

Ari Fleischer (Former W. H. Press Secretary) "If Scott had such deep misgivings, he should not have accepted the press secretary position as a matter of principle."

Pat Buchanon (MSNBC contributor, historian, former Presidential Candidate, etc..etc...), "Well, you have got to ask why did Scott McClellan did not resign, for Heaven sakes. He said, basically, that the Bush White House was propagandizing for war, cherry picking for information, making the case, as a prosecutor would for a war in which he (McClellan), did not believe in. I wonder why a man would participate in something like that (the job he held, did not speak up in), if he disbelieved, in the cause, or in the war. I can't explain that, (I haven't read his book), but I have read what he said (the direct quotes from the book).

Dan Bartlett (Scott McClellan's boss, at the W. H. ), "Scott McClellan did defend this war and these things from the podium, in fact, in the most private of moments, within the West Wing of the White House. With his closest friends and colleagues, he did not raise these concerns, that he is now raising in this book? I have known him for more than a decade, and there is no one more shocked, than I, with these things he has leveled."

Then the two sides of McClellan, himself. The side, when he was the White House Press Secretary and the McClellan in "book form": Scott McClellan, in his own words, on his last day of office (in front of the press corps and White House he has blatantly hammered), "Mr. President, it has been an extraordinary honor to have served you and the White House for seven years now." However, now McClellan in his book, states, "What I do know is that war should only be waged when necessary, and the Iraq war was not necessary."

It is really hard to believe, that a man in the political arena for his whole life (going back with the Bush family, to Texas Governor), could have such a change of heart, recollection, and candor in a little under a year. After all, he did appear on the "Bill Maher Show" and defended President Bush's White House and his position, just eleven short months ago. A man does not work in the White House for seven years, previed to the knowledge he had, stand up in front of the press corps and millions of Americans lying (day in and day out), is asked to step down from his post, then have a change of heart, or conscious. It sounds more like a man, who was disgruntled for being shown the door, a little earlier, than he may have wanted, and now it is sour grapes. If you do not believe that, then why do so many people of different political stripes, have basically the same things (above) to say?