There is no word at this time on when the French will be announcing their surrender.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Chad Fighters Declare War On France
According to Al Jazeera, the Chadian fighter group, the UFDD, announced to day that it was declaring war against France.
There is no word at this time on when the French will be announcing their surrender.
There is no word at this time on when the French will be announcing their surrender.
Clinton Hostage Situation: It's Over
Apparently a man with a bomb strapped to his chest has walked into a Clinton Campaign office in New Hampshire and is holding hostages. Senator Clinton (and her Secret Service Detail) was not in the office.Senator Clinton has canceled a speech to the DNC this afternoon due to the situation at her office (likely at the suggestion of the Secret Service).
UPDATE:
According to CNN there are two people in the Rochester, NH Clinton office and the nearby Obama office has been closed. The hostage taker is demanding to speak to the Senator.
Update (13:48 CDT):
According to MSNBC TV, there were originally four people in the office. The hostage taker immediately let two go (a woman and child), but is holding two hostages.
Update (14:07 CDT):
According to live coverage on MSNBC TV, one hostage has been released and a "communication device" has been delivered to the hostage taker.
Update (14:19 CDT):
According to live reporting on MSNBC, the Police are now in Contact with hostage taker.
Update (14:47 CDT):
Again according to MSNBC, the suspect is known to police in Rochester from previous encounters. Apparently the 40 year old white male has a history of mental illness (Go Figure!). The Clinton's have cancelled all events for the day.
Update (14:51 CDT):
MSNBC- The suspect went to the hardware store earlier TODAY and purchase some of the materials for his "bomb."
Yes, this is a serious situation, but this is a situation at a Political Office and I do write with a political slant. So here is my question. At what point today will we be hearing Democrats start calling for a Federal Waiting Period on all Hardware Store Purchases?
Update (15:03 CDT):
According to Fox News Live Reporting:The hostage taker's son is stating that the "bomb" is actually road flares. Man is also reported to have been saying there was a government conspiracy against him in recent weeks and that the government had planted a bug inside him (according to Fox Reporters).
UPDATE (16:38 CDT):
It appears, according to live coverage, that the last hostage may have been released.
FINAL:
It's over. FOX NEWS Is reporting on TV Coverage that Hillary will be coming to NH to thank everyone (and for a Photo Op with Law Enforcement). There is also no truth to the rumor that this situation involved a "Snuke"
CNN.com - CNN Political Ticker-DNC Chair Statement: "“Unfortunately as some of you know, there is a hostage situation in New Hampshire involving a Clinton campaign staff person,' he said. 'The details are sketchy at this time, but understandably Senator Clinton is now dealing with this very difficult problem and she is not going to be able to join us today. And we will keep them in our prayers and hope for a resolution to this situation in New Hampshire.”"
From WCVB Boston: "An armed man has taken people hostage at Hillary Clinton's campaign office in Rochester, N.H., according to TV station WMUR in Manchester. Buildings in the area have been locked down. Hillary Clinton is not in the state, Boston TV station WCVB reported"
From CNN.com: "The WMUR Web site said a witness, Lettie Tzizik, told the station she spoke to a woman shortly after she was released from the office by the hostage-taker. 'A young woman with a 6-month or 8-month-old infant came rushing into the store just in tears, and she said, 'You need to call 911. A man has just walked into the Clinton office, opened his coat and showed us a bomb strapped to his chest with duct tape,'' the Web site reported."
Also Covering:
The Jawa Report
Blogs of War
Michelle Malkin
Thursday, November 29, 2007
New Push to Roll Back Don' t ask Don't Tell on Heals of CNN Debate
Right on the heals of the CNN Debate and the Keith Kerr "Don't Ask Don't Tell" question that now everyone is talking about, the International Herald Tribune writes that 28 retired generals and admirals plan to release a letter on Friday urging Congress to repeal the law. Friday, November 30, 2007 marks the 14th anniversary of "don't ask don't tell."
Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Gen. John Shalikashvili is amoung the signers of the letter to Congress. According to the IHT, a series of rallies are also planned on the Mall in Washington, D.C. by groups that are calling for a change in "don't ask, don't tell."
Undoubtedly, the rallies and the letter will get wide spread news coverage, especially now that the issue of "Don't Ask" has been brought to the public attention in such a dramatic way.
IF Keith Kerr had not asked his question and make his disertation on CNN during the debate and been found, very quickly, to be a Clinton Steering Committee Member, the entire country would not already be talking about this issue.
If Keith Kerr had not asked his question, Democratic Pollsters and Staff would not have had the opportunity today to be spinning, "yes, but Gen. Kerr's question was legitimate. Republicans are wrong."
If Keith Kerr had not asked his question, would the letter to Congress, and the gatherings on the Mall even be noticed?
Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Gen. John Shalikashvili is amoung the signers of the letter to Congress. According to the IHT, a series of rallies are also planned on the Mall in Washington, D.C. by groups that are calling for a change in "don't ask, don't tell."
Undoubtedly, the rallies and the letter will get wide spread news coverage, especially now that the issue of "Don't Ask" has been brought to the public attention in such a dramatic way.
IF Keith Kerr had not asked his question and make his disertation on CNN during the debate and been found, very quickly, to be a Clinton Steering Committee Member, the entire country would not already be talking about this issue.
If Keith Kerr had not asked his question, Democratic Pollsters and Staff would not have had the opportunity today to be spinning, "yes, but Gen. Kerr's question was legitimate. Republicans are wrong."
If Keith Kerr had not asked his question, would the letter to Congress, and the gatherings on the Mall even be noticed?
Arkansas Gov. Not Telling Truth
No, this is not a Flash Back to the early 90's. Gov Huckabee did not tell the truth about giving scholarships to illegals.
The Jawa Report has the full details.
The Jawa Report has the full details.
What It Means to Be Called a Conservative
Rush Limbaugh spoke Thursday saying that the only true conservative in the GOP Campaign is Fred Thompson. As a Fred Thompson supporter I was ecstatic to hear this from Rush. However, there was a bigger message about Fred Thompson that Rush delivered that must be brought into the light and discussed for all to hear.
Rush not only stated Fred Thompson was the only conservative, but called the current "so-called" front runners moderates by name. This is important. Rush basically told the supporters of Gov. Huckabee, Mayor Giuliani, and Gov. Romney, you are supporting candidates that are not conservatives, you are supporting those with liberal tendencies and with liberal history.
Rush also indirectly pointed out that Senator Thompson is the only Reagan Conservative. After saying that only Fred Thompson did not display moderateness and liberalism (therefore Conservatism), Rush said, "I've told you during the course of this one campaign year that one of the things that's bothering me, is I'm a Reagan conservative, and I believe in conservatism."
President Reagan and Reagan Conservatism is the heart of the party. I believe I can fairly state that most members of the GOP believe that Ronald Reagan was one of the greatest leaders our party has ever had. We long for a leader who emulates this great man. We want that type of leadership that makes us proud to be an American.
We want a leader who speaks with an authority of conviction. We want a leader that we know will not flinch when confronting those nations and entities who bare ill will toward us. We want a leader whose very name causes our enemies to tremble. We want a leader that our friends respect and that our allies will trust and defend.
We want a leader who, when he takes the oath of office, will truly mean it when he swears that he will SUPPORT and DEFEND the CONSTITUTION. We want a leader who will appoint Conservative LIONS to the court rather than centrists that will easily win Senatorial confirmation. We want a leader that believes that those first Ten Amendments should be taken as a Holy Writ, and that realizes that these Rights are God Given Rights not given by Government.
We want a leader that believes in True Conservatism; a leader that believes in Empowering the individual. We want a leader that believes in Our Republic and who makes us want to stand and Shout for All to hear, "I am a member of the REPUBLICAN Party."
Rush is right. There is only conservatism and you either are or you are not.
Rush is right. There is only one conservative running, and that conservative is Fred Thompson.
Also Blogging:
Fred08.com
Blogs For Fred Thompson
Fred Thompson News
On Past, Present And Future
Rush not only stated Fred Thompson was the only conservative, but called the current "so-called" front runners moderates by name. This is important. Rush basically told the supporters of Gov. Huckabee, Mayor Giuliani, and Gov. Romney, you are supporting candidates that are not conservatives, you are supporting those with liberal tendencies and with liberal history.
Rush also indirectly pointed out that Senator Thompson is the only Reagan Conservative. After saying that only Fred Thompson did not display moderateness and liberalism (therefore Conservatism), Rush said, "I've told you during the course of this one campaign year that one of the things that's bothering me, is I'm a Reagan conservative, and I believe in conservatism."
President Reagan and Reagan Conservatism is the heart of the party. I believe I can fairly state that most members of the GOP believe that Ronald Reagan was one of the greatest leaders our party has ever had. We long for a leader who emulates this great man. We want that type of leadership that makes us proud to be an American.
We want a leader who speaks with an authority of conviction. We want a leader that we know will not flinch when confronting those nations and entities who bare ill will toward us. We want a leader whose very name causes our enemies to tremble. We want a leader that our friends respect and that our allies will trust and defend.
We want a leader who, when he takes the oath of office, will truly mean it when he swears that he will SUPPORT and DEFEND the CONSTITUTION. We want a leader who will appoint Conservative LIONS to the court rather than centrists that will easily win Senatorial confirmation. We want a leader that believes that those first Ten Amendments should be taken as a Holy Writ, and that realizes that these Rights are God Given Rights not given by Government.
We want a leader that believes in True Conservatism; a leader that believes in Empowering the individual. We want a leader that believes in Our Republic and who makes us want to stand and Shout for All to hear, "I am a member of the REPUBLICAN Party."
Rush is right. There is only conservatism and you either are or you are not.
Rush is right. There is only one conservative running, and that conservative is Fred Thompson.
Also Blogging:
Fred08.com
Blogs For Fred Thompson
Fred Thompson News
On Past, Present And Future
Inspirational Apache Video
I found this while reading The Jawa Report in a post named Gun Cam Porn today... This is a MUST VIEW VIDEO.
Turn the Volume of your PC all the way up, sit back and be inspired!
Turn the Volume of your PC all the way up, sit back and be inspired!
From Rush: Moderates Dominate GOP Debate; Only Fred Sounded Conservative
FROM RUSHLIMBAUGH.COM:
Full Transcript Can be found here!
"There was one candidate who did not display any moderateness or liberalism or have any of his past forays into those areas displayed, and that candidate was Fred Thompson. Now, this is not an endorsement. You know, I don't endorse during primaries. I just point out: These are things I noticed, and I've told you during the course of this one campaign year that one of the things that's bothering me, is I'm a Reagan conservative, and I believe in conservatism. It's in my soul and it's in my heart, and I know it is the best way for us to manage our affairs to ensure the most prosperity for the most, to continue our freedom, to protect our country. "
Full Transcript Can be found here!
Teacher Sentenced for Insulting Islam
Gillian Gibbons was sentenced to 15 days in prison and deportation today by a Sudanese Court for the crime of "Insulting the faith of Muslims In Sudan." Gibbons is the British teacher who allowed her class to name a teddy bear. The name the class chose was Muhammad.
Yes, Gibbons could have been sentenced to 40 lashes and been convicted of crimes that are, under Sudanese law, much worse. However 15 days prison time in what, I am sure, is not a facility built with human comfort, decency or long term survival in mind, is a punishment that borders on barbarism.
Gibbons lawyer is planning an appeal. Let us hope and pray that her appeal does not end up with a harsher punishment like others have.
The Kansas City Star:
Also Covering:
Blogs of War
Yes, Gibbons could have been sentenced to 40 lashes and been convicted of crimes that are, under Sudanese law, much worse. However 15 days prison time in what, I am sure, is not a facility built with human comfort, decency or long term survival in mind, is a punishment that borders on barbarism.
Gibbons lawyer is planning an appeal. Let us hope and pray that her appeal does not end up with a harsher punishment like others have.
The Kansas City Star:
"A British teacher in Sudan was convicted Thursday of the less-serious charge of insulting Islam for letting her pupils name a teddy bear 'Muhammad,' and was sentenced to 15 days in prison and deportation to Britain, one of her lawyers said."
Also Covering:
Blogs of War
Bin Laden Releases Tape
Here is what we have so far... there will be more to come from this site as the day progresses.
Reuters:
UPDATE:
We just found this on YouTube. Audio is fairly good.
Also Covering:
The Mansfield Report
The Jawa Report
Reuters:
DUBAI (Reuters) - Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden urged European countries to end their military cooperation with U.S. forces in Afghanistan in an audio tape aired by Al Jazeera television on Thursday.
"Since the American tide is receding and they would eventually return to their home across the Atlantic... it is in your interest to force the hand of your politicians (away from) the White House," said a speaker in the recording who sounded like bin Laden.
UPDATE:
We just found this on YouTube. Audio is fairly good.
Also Covering:
The Mansfield Report
The Jawa Report
Israel Strikes Gaza Post Annapolis
Hours after the end of the Annapolis Summit, the Israeli Airforce struck Gaza today in response to repeated attacks on Kibbutz Erez and the town of Kerem Shalom.
Haaretz - Israel News:
Haaretz - Israel News:
"Four Hamas militants were killed overnight in two separate Israel Air Force strikes near the southern Gaza town of Khan Yunis, Palestinian security officials said early Thursday morning. The Israel Defense Forces said the first attack was on a group of armed men in combat vests moving near the border with Israel and the second was against two men trying to plant a bomb near the border fence."
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
The Debate: From the MSM (Kansas City Star and AP)
I am pleasently suprised with the coverage of the GOP Debate from the Kansas City Star/AP Story. I am particularly pleased at the "positive" wording they use to describe Senator Thompson, stating he "Fred Thompson took the opportunity to distinguish himself from both Romney and Giuliani." From a paper that most REAL Republicans in Kansas City call the Comunuist Star, this is high praise indeed!
The Kansas City Star:
The Kansas City Star:
Fred Thompson took the opportunity to distinguish himself from both Romney and Giuliani, arguing that Romney had supported President Bush's plan to provide a path to citizenship for some immigrants in the United States illegally now. He took Giuliani to task for attacking Romney's employment of illegal immigrants. 'I think we've all had people who we've hired who in retrospect was a bad decision,' he said, alluding to Bernard Kerik, Giuliani's disgraced former police commissioner who is under federal indictment on multiple charges.
...
One questioner, Keith Kerr of Santa Rosa, Calif., a retired Army colonel who served as a brigadier general in the reserves, asked the candidates about their views on gays in the military and revealed himself to be gay. Not mentioned was his membership on a steering committee of gays and lesbians for Democratic candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton.
CNN Gives Microphone to Hillary Staffer During Debate
Kieth Kerr a member of the Hillary Clinton Campaign LGBT Steering Committee was given the microphone and allowed to go on allocution safari on the issue of Don't Ask Don't Tell.
Does it really surprise anyone that CNN would allow this or maybe even go so far as to plant him?
There is something more to this, and I am researching now to see if there is a connection between Kerr, CNN or Anderson Cooper. The internet and Google are wonderful things.
Also Covering:
Ace of Spades
TownHall.com
Stop the ACLU
Hyscience
Does it really surprise anyone that CNN would allow this or maybe even go so far as to plant him?
There is something more to this, and I am researching now to see if there is a connection between Kerr, CNN or Anderson Cooper. The internet and Google are wonderful things.
Also Covering:
Ace of Spades
TownHall.com
Stop the ACLU
Hyscience
Final Thoughts On the CNN Debate/Gong Show
First, this was the MOST BIZARRE thing I think I have seen in years as far as a debate goes.
BUT as far as the best candidate goes:
Senator Thompson was, I thought, Presidential in appearance and in his responses. The Senator answered all questions quite well and I continue to strongly support him.
Some of the more interesting things that I believe will play over the next few days were accusations between Mitt Romney and Rudy. Giuliani's unequivocal denial of what will end up being "New York Travel Gate" in the next few days, may cause him problems in the future if any of the accusations are true.
Both Mitt Romney and Rudy appeared to be nervous at times, but between the two, I must say it appeared that Romney walked all over Rudy.
Ron Paul is a NUT CASE.
Senator Thompson's answer on the war was impressive and showed his convictions. He had the right answer and stressed that we are winning the war. I also loved the Senators Second Amendment answers, pointing out that Rudy supported Clinton gun control and his, "I own a couple of guns but I'm not going to tell you what they are or where they are" Great Answer
CNN was WAY OUT OF LINE with some of the questions that were asked-- especially the do you believe every word in the Bible question.
It will be very interesting to see the polls and the instant feed back to see what comes of tonight, what the dial groups show and what the polls show.
BUT as far as the best candidate goes:
Senator Thompson was, I thought, Presidential in appearance and in his responses. The Senator answered all questions quite well and I continue to strongly support him.
Some of the more interesting things that I believe will play over the next few days were accusations between Mitt Romney and Rudy. Giuliani's unequivocal denial of what will end up being "New York Travel Gate" in the next few days, may cause him problems in the future if any of the accusations are true.
Both Mitt Romney and Rudy appeared to be nervous at times, but between the two, I must say it appeared that Romney walked all over Rudy.
Ron Paul is a NUT CASE.
Senator Thompson's answer on the war was impressive and showed his convictions. He had the right answer and stressed that we are winning the war. I also loved the Senators Second Amendment answers, pointing out that Rudy supported Clinton gun control and his, "I own a couple of guns but I'm not going to tell you what they are or where they are" Great Answer
CNN was WAY OUT OF LINE with some of the questions that were asked-- especially the do you believe every word in the Bible question.
It will be very interesting to see the polls and the instant feed back to see what comes of tonight, what the dial groups show and what the polls show.
Thoughts on the Nov. 28 Presidential Debate (Live Blogging)
Also Blogging Live
Fred File
First Impressions:
The "pre-game" introduction really looks like "Fred Thompson, with the Seven Dwarves"
On to the Debate-
In the first question Rudy only talked about deporting illegals that "had committed a crime." Mitt smacked back hard, but Rudy accused Mitt of having illegals working in his mansion. This really turned into a cat fight. Rudy ended up being boo'd.
Senator Thompson's response to the "Will you take a pledge to veto amnesty" was brilliant, right on and to the point. Senator McCain was booed as soon as he said did not support amnesty.
Mitt is right on smacking Huckabee around for giving tax payer benefits for illegally.
--------
Ron Paul is a nut
--------
All the GOP Candidates did "sing to the choir" on the issue of cutting spending... Although I personally believe that McCain was part of the problem...
Senator Thompson really stepped up and grabbed the "third rail" when he answered the question on the three programs he would get rid of. He said, I will reform Social Security and Entitlements
--------
Again Ron Paul is a nut
--------
Senator McCain accused Ron Paul of being an Isolationist and stated that is what caused WWII.
--------
Ok, what candidate in his RIGHT MIND is going to say ANYTHING against FARMERS four weeks before IOWA?
But wait, Rudy just implied that he might reduce subsidies....
--------
Rudy just DENIED the Politico story-- this could be interesting tomorrow
--------
The Thompson Video just SMACKED HARD at Mitt and the Huckabee... Mitt did give a good mea culpa on having been pro-choice though- it may actually have scored points.
--------
Rudy Gets Boo'd again on the Second Amendment. Now of course he is backing off previous views.
Senator Thompson again shows that he is Presidential material. He nails Rudy on his Second Amendment record. His answer on Gun ownership was also perfect.
YES JOHN MCCAIN WAS IN VIETNAM ---THANKS FOR REMINDING US SENATOR ("I carried a 45 while a pilot over Vietnam")
--------
(Pause for Cat Fight between Mit and Rudy)
--------
Senator Thompson states Supreme Court is the number one issue before us when addressing the issue of abortion-- He is definitely correct. Getting the Court back to interpreting the Constitution instead of legislating would be incredible.
--------
Rudy has more Waffles than a house of pancakes!!! FIRST he says States have the right to decide abortion, then he states, there should be federal penalties for violating abortion laws--- which is it Mayor??? A State issue or Federal?
--------
Gov. Huckabee did a great job with the What would Jesus do with the death penalty question.
--------
CNN IS WAY OUT OF LINE with some of these questions---Especially the "Do you believe EVERY word of the Bible"
--------
On to Global Policy
How should we improve our image with the Islamic world? Rudy and the others who answered did a great job with this question.
How can you disagree with McCain on waterboarding?
Senator McCain got a bit angry on this question and really smacked Mitt around. However, I do think the Senator (McCain) did press the issue a bit too long and should have let his first answer stand.
---------
Who will make a permanent long term military commitment to the Iraqi people?
Senator Thompson stated quite correctly that we don't know how long it will take but we should stay as long as it takes. He sounded strong and resolute and a man of his convictions.
--------
Ron Paul is a nut
--------
How in the WORLD can Ron Paul argue with John McCain on Vietnam? How can Ron Paul say if we left al-Qaeda alone they would leave us alone?
--------
How does Giuliani respond to the charges that he's using 9/11 to win the White House?
Giuliani: Look at my whole record--- (wait for it-- his record is about to be an issue)
--------
Senator Thompson shows has a great sense of humor, even self deprecating humor, when responding to a cartoon of VP Cheney with the question of should a VP have as much power as the current VP.
Senator McCain on the other-hand, kind of smacked President Bush a bit on National Security.
--------
Gays in the Military--
Duncan Hunter headed down the "unit cohesion" path--
Mitt had to WAFFLE on the issue, based on past statements.
Senator McCain says "don't ask don't tell works"
--------
Will You Accept the support of the LCR? (Log Cabin Republicans)
Huckabee-- I need everyones support I can get. But I will stick to my convictions. This was a good answer
--------
What will you do to fix Social Security?
Talk about a question made for Senator Thompson. He provided a brilliant answer discussing talking entitlements.
Mitt sounds like he agrees with Senator Thompson.
--------
Will You Send a Human to Mars by 2020 or Pledge Support of Human Exploration?
Interesting little fight on this question-- one side we need more exploration--it fosters discovery, the other we can't be everything to everyone-- we are spending too much money.
--------
Why don't African Americans vote Republican?
(Because Rudy IMMEDIATELY starts talking about how he Reformed Welfare!!!! I was insulted)
--------
What Does the Stars and Bars Represent? (This is a CNN Stupid Question)
Mitt alienated the entire south saying it should never be shown...He answered like a Yankee
Senator Thompson-- being from a Southern State--- did a very good job of tredding lightly on this STUPID question without calling people racists or saying the Civil War did not exist.
--------
Infrastructure
Rudy-- Here is what I did in the past--- a good answer
--------
Again Ron Paul is a nut
--------
Senator McCain did not answer the question and goes on to the line item veto which prompts an arguement on the line veto with Rudy.
--------
Why did Giuliani root for the Red Sox?
Giuliani ---when I was mayor we won 4 series
Mit --- like most American's we hate the Yankees
--------
Thanks to everyone who watched this live blog
--------
Commentary Post Debate:
(This may take a few minutes to type)
Fred File
First Impressions:
The "pre-game" introduction really looks like "Fred Thompson, with the Seven Dwarves"
On to the Debate-
In the first question Rudy only talked about deporting illegals that "had committed a crime." Mitt smacked back hard, but Rudy accused Mitt of having illegals working in his mansion. This really turned into a cat fight. Rudy ended up being boo'd.
Senator Thompson's response to the "Will you take a pledge to veto amnesty" was brilliant, right on and to the point. Senator McCain was booed as soon as he said did not support amnesty.
Mitt is right on smacking Huckabee around for giving tax payer benefits for illegally.
--------
Ron Paul is a nut
--------
All the GOP Candidates did "sing to the choir" on the issue of cutting spending... Although I personally believe that McCain was part of the problem...
Senator Thompson really stepped up and grabbed the "third rail" when he answered the question on the three programs he would get rid of. He said, I will reform Social Security and Entitlements
--------
Again Ron Paul is a nut
--------
Senator McCain accused Ron Paul of being an Isolationist and stated that is what caused WWII.
--------
Ok, what candidate in his RIGHT MIND is going to say ANYTHING against FARMERS four weeks before IOWA?
But wait, Rudy just implied that he might reduce subsidies....
--------
Rudy just DENIED the Politico story-- this could be interesting tomorrow
--------
The Thompson Video just SMACKED HARD at Mitt and the Huckabee... Mitt did give a good mea culpa on having been pro-choice though- it may actually have scored points.
--------
Rudy Gets Boo'd again on the Second Amendment. Now of course he is backing off previous views.
Senator Thompson again shows that he is Presidential material. He nails Rudy on his Second Amendment record. His answer on Gun ownership was also perfect.
YES JOHN MCCAIN WAS IN VIETNAM ---THANKS FOR REMINDING US SENATOR ("I carried a 45 while a pilot over Vietnam")
--------
(Pause for Cat Fight between Mit and Rudy)
--------
Senator Thompson states Supreme Court is the number one issue before us when addressing the issue of abortion-- He is definitely correct. Getting the Court back to interpreting the Constitution instead of legislating would be incredible.
--------
Rudy has more Waffles than a house of pancakes!!! FIRST he says States have the right to decide abortion, then he states, there should be federal penalties for violating abortion laws--- which is it Mayor??? A State issue or Federal?
--------
Gov. Huckabee did a great job with the What would Jesus do with the death penalty question.
--------
CNN IS WAY OUT OF LINE with some of these questions---Especially the "Do you believe EVERY word of the Bible"
--------
On to Global Policy
How should we improve our image with the Islamic world? Rudy and the others who answered did a great job with this question.
How can you disagree with McCain on waterboarding?
Senator McCain got a bit angry on this question and really smacked Mitt around. However, I do think the Senator (McCain) did press the issue a bit too long and should have let his first answer stand.
---------
Who will make a permanent long term military commitment to the Iraqi people?
Senator Thompson stated quite correctly that we don't know how long it will take but we should stay as long as it takes. He sounded strong and resolute and a man of his convictions.
--------
Ron Paul is a nut
--------
How in the WORLD can Ron Paul argue with John McCain on Vietnam? How can Ron Paul say if we left al-Qaeda alone they would leave us alone?
--------
How does Giuliani respond to the charges that he's using 9/11 to win the White House?
Giuliani: Look at my whole record--- (wait for it-- his record is about to be an issue)
--------
Senator Thompson shows has a great sense of humor, even self deprecating humor, when responding to a cartoon of VP Cheney with the question of should a VP have as much power as the current VP.
Senator McCain on the other-hand, kind of smacked President Bush a bit on National Security.
--------
Gays in the Military--
Duncan Hunter headed down the "unit cohesion" path--
Mitt had to WAFFLE on the issue, based on past statements.
Senator McCain says "don't ask don't tell works"
--------
Will You Accept the support of the LCR? (Log Cabin Republicans)
Huckabee-- I need everyones support I can get. But I will stick to my convictions. This was a good answer
--------
What will you do to fix Social Security?
Talk about a question made for Senator Thompson. He provided a brilliant answer discussing talking entitlements.
Mitt sounds like he agrees with Senator Thompson.
--------
Will You Send a Human to Mars by 2020 or Pledge Support of Human Exploration?
Interesting little fight on this question-- one side we need more exploration--it fosters discovery, the other we can't be everything to everyone-- we are spending too much money.
--------
Why don't African Americans vote Republican?
(Because Rudy IMMEDIATELY starts talking about how he Reformed Welfare!!!! I was insulted)
--------
What Does the Stars and Bars Represent? (This is a CNN Stupid Question)
Mitt alienated the entire south saying it should never be shown...He answered like a Yankee
Senator Thompson-- being from a Southern State--- did a very good job of tredding lightly on this STUPID question without calling people racists or saying the Civil War did not exist.
--------
Infrastructure
Rudy-- Here is what I did in the past--- a good answer
--------
Again Ron Paul is a nut
--------
Senator McCain did not answer the question and goes on to the line item veto which prompts an arguement on the line veto with Rudy.
--------
Why did Giuliani root for the Red Sox?
Giuliani ---when I was mayor we won 4 series
Mit --- like most American's we hate the Yankees
--------
Thanks to everyone who watched this live blog
--------
Commentary Post Debate:
(This may take a few minutes to type)
Democratic Presidential Debate Canceled
According to Reuters the Democrats have cancelled their December debate because several candidates said they won't cross the Writer's Guild Picket lines...
Personally I wonder if this is an excuse, and I would very much like to know which of the candidates said they would not show.
Personally I wonder if this is an excuse, and I would very much like to know which of the candidates said they would not show.
Air Force Grounds F-15s Again
The US Air Force announced it was grounding the entire fleet of F-15 A's through D's today. This is the second time this month that the Air Force has grounded the F-15's.The grounding is said to be due to cracks in longerons. Longerons are rails that hold the fuselage together.
The F-15A has been in service since 1975. Various versions of the F-15 are in use by Israel, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Japan and Singapore. Israel also flies a new longer range variant of the F-15, the F-15I.
The current US variant, the F-15 Strike Eagle is the version that is in use in Afghanistan.
Navy Times: "For the second time in less than a month, F-15 Eagles are grounded. Air Combat Command was announced today that A, B, C and D-model versions of the fighter would “stand down” for an indefinite period of time. F-15E Strike Eagles, a larger and newer version of the fighters, are not grounded and continue to fly, ACC said. Like the ordered grounding on Nov. 3, this decision stems from the Nov. 2 crash of a 27-year-old Missouri Air National Guard F-15C. That fighter broke apart between the cockpit and main fuselage as it flew an air-to-air combat training sortie. Wednesday’s announcement comes 12 days after F-15 A-D units were told their jets could return to flight as each fighter passed a 15-hour-long inspection. As of today, about 90 percent of the F-15As, Bs, Cs and Ds had passed the inspection."
3 Arrested by Slovakia for Attempting to Sell Nuke Material
Unfortunately the material in question has yet to be identified. Additionally, it is not clear yet who the intended recipients were.
Also Covering:
Blogs of War
MSNBC.COM: "BRATISLAVA, Slovakia - Police said Wednesday three people have been arrested for attempting to sell a small amount of an unspecified nuclear material."
Also Covering:
Blogs of War
Bush economic adviser Hubbard resigns
This story is just breaking. Apparently he wants to spend more time with his children.
Bush economic adviser Hubbard resigns | Reuters: "WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Top White House economic adviser Allan Hubbard resigned on Wednesday and will be replaced by his deputy, Keith Hennessey, the latest in a string of departures as President George W. Bush's term winds down."
Saudi Arabia Arrests Over 200- Foils Attack
It is nice to hear that the Saudi's are possibly doing something. I wonder how many of the 200 were part of the 1500 that they released earlier this week.
Saudi holds over 200 militants, foils oil attack | International | Reuters: "RIYADH (Reuters) -
Saudi holds over 200 militants, foils oil attack | International | Reuters: "RIYADH (Reuters) -
Saudi Arabia said on Wednesday it had arrested 208 people for involvement in several cells planning attacks on an oil installation as well as clerics and security forces. The state television said one of the cells was planning to smuggle missiles into the country, which has faced a campaign by al Qaeda sympathizers since 2003 against the U.S.-allied monarchy. A cell of eight militants led by a foreigners planned an attack on an oil facility in the Eastern Province, home to key oil installation in the world's largest oil exporting nation."
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Report Shows Increasing Positive Opinion About Iraq
The Pew Research Center released a poll yesterday showing public opinion on Iraq is generally positive. Although this report will certainly be spun by some as being negative, the data, as published by Pew, shows that the public is now evenly split between those that think the War is going well, and those that think the War is going poorly.
Forty-Eight percent of those surveyed believe the military effort in Iraq is going either fairly well or well while forty-eight percent believe the military effort is going not too well or not well at all. Four percent of those surveyed did not know or did not answer.
More people also believe that the US will probably or definitely succeed with the mission in Iraq than believe that the US could fail (48% vs. 46%).
Fifty percent of those surveyed believe the military is making progress in training the Iraqi military while thirty-six percent believe we are loosing ground.
Fifty-One percent believe that the US is making progress in preventing terrorist from using Iraq as a base, while again, thirty-six percent believe the US is loosing ground.
When asked the open ended question, "What one word describes your impression of the situation in Iraq these days?" more people responded with Improved/Improving than any other single response.
The complete report with top line data in PDF can be downloaded here.
Forty-Eight percent of those surveyed believe the military effort in Iraq is going either fairly well or well while forty-eight percent believe the military effort is going not too well or not well at all. Four percent of those surveyed did not know or did not answer.
More people also believe that the US will probably or definitely succeed with the mission in Iraq than believe that the US could fail (48% vs. 46%).
Fifty percent of those surveyed believe the military is making progress in training the Iraqi military while thirty-six percent believe we are loosing ground.
Fifty-One percent believe that the US is making progress in preventing terrorist from using Iraq as a base, while again, thirty-six percent believe the US is loosing ground.
When asked the open ended question, "What one word describes your impression of the situation in Iraq these days?" more people responded with Improved/Improving than any other single response.
The complete report with top line data in PDF can be downloaded here.
Global Warming, Irreversible Catastrophe, Dogs and Cats Living Together, Mass Hysteria
Today the United Nations declared the world is coming to an end due to man's existence on the planet. Apparently, those of us in the United States should not be using air conditioning or driving our cars because it will cause someone in Etheopia to starve.
The one question that this report does not address is where is the global warming in the US? According to information from NASA, the 1930's had four of the hottest ten years in the last century in the US with 1934 being the hotest. It is actually cooler now versus then.
Reuters:
The one question that this report does not address is where is the global warming in the US? According to information from NASA, the 1930's had four of the hottest ten years in the last century in the US with 1934 being the hotest. It is actually cooler now versus then.
Reuters:
BRASILIA (Reuters) - Unless the international community agrees to cut carbon emissions by half over the next generation, climate change is likely to cause large-scale human and economic setbacks and irreversible ecological catastrophes, a U.N. report said on Tuesday.
The U.N. Human Development Report issued one of the strongest warnings yet of the lasting impact of climate change on living standards and a strong call for urgent collective action.
"We could be on the verge of seeing human development reverse for the first time in 30 years," Kevin Watkins, lead author of the report, told Reuters.
...
When people in an American city turn on their air conditioning or people in Europe drive their cars, their actions have consequences ... linking them to rural communities in Bangladesh, farmers in Ethiopia and slum dwellers in Haiti," the report said.
MORE Good News From Iraq
Approximately 800 Iraqi's boarded busses today in Syria for a voluntary trip home. The bus convoy, the first sponsered by the Iraqi government, left for Iraq from Damascus.
Over the last few weeks, ten's of thousands have been returning to Iraq from Syria and other countries in the region. According to the Syrian and Iraqi Governments approximately 46,000 Iraqis returned home in October. The UN is admitting to a net 1000 persons a day returning to Iraq.
From the Kansas City Star:
Over the last few weeks, ten's of thousands have been returning to Iraq from Syria and other countries in the region. According to the Syrian and Iraqi Governments approximately 46,000 Iraqis returned home in October. The UN is admitting to a net 1000 persons a day returning to Iraq.
From the Kansas City Star:
Hundreds of Iraqi refugees boarded buses for home on Tuesday in the first convoy from an Iraqi-funded effort to speed the return of families that fled the country's violence and insecurity.
Many Iraqis have headed back on own their own from Syria and elsewhere as extremist attacks have fallen sharply in Baghdad and other areas. But now the Iraqi government is hoping to accelerate the flow - and draw more attention to the recent drop in violence - by offering to pay for trips home.
Iran Announces "Ashura" Missle With Range That Will Reach Israel
Iran has announced a new ballistic missle with enough range to hit Israel and US Assets in the Gulf. The range of the new missle is over 2000 Km.
The new missle is called "Ashura."
According to the Jerusalem Post, "the Iranian defense minister said that 'the production of the new missile was one of the Defense Ministry's greatest achievements.'"
The new missle is called "Ashura."
According to the Jerusalem Post, "the Iranian defense minister said that 'the production of the new missile was one of the Defense Ministry's greatest achievements.'"
Monday, November 26, 2007
More Barbarism from Extremist Islam
A Britsh School teacher in Sudan has been arrested, charged with insulting Islam and faces up to 40 lashes for allowing her class to name a teddy bear Mohammed.
From FoxNews.com:
See Also:
Michelle Malkin
The Jawa Report
From FoxNews.com:
A British primary school teacher arrested in Sudan faces up to 40 lashes for blasphemy after letting her class of 7-year-olds name a teddy bear Muhammad.
Gillian Gibbons, 54, from Liverpool, was arrested at at Khartoum's Unity High School yesterday, and accused of insulting the Prophet of Islam.
Her colleagues said that they feared for her safety after reports that groups of young men had gathered outside the Khartoum police station where she was taken and were shouting death threats.
See Also:
Michelle Malkin
The Jawa Report
China Pushing US to Block Taiwan Seperation Moves
The ChiComs (aka the PRC) are "warning" the US to stop selling arms to Taiwan and to oppose the proposed referendum on UN Membership for Taiwan.
I find it repulsive that the US should even consider such a thing. The PRC is a COMMUNIST COUNTRY. The Republic of China is a Democracy and it is the legitimate government of all China.
Lest we forget, during the Communist Revolution in the Republic of China, the government of China fled to its last remaining province, Taiwan. That government, the ORIGINAL government of China, was and is, democratic and is still standing on the island of Taiwan.
We should have a One China policy- Supporting the Democratic China, the Republic of China, until the PRC surrenders.
From Reuters:
I find it repulsive that the US should even consider such a thing. The PRC is a COMMUNIST COUNTRY. The Republic of China is a Democracy and it is the legitimate government of all China.
Lest we forget, during the Communist Revolution in the Republic of China, the government of China fled to its last remaining province, Taiwan. That government, the ORIGINAL government of China, was and is, democratic and is still standing on the island of Taiwan.
We should have a One China policy- Supporting the Democratic China, the Republic of China, until the PRC surrenders.
From Reuters:
BEIJING (Reuters) - China has again prodded the United States to oppose a controversial referendum on U.N. membership by Taiwan and warned Washington to stop arms sales to the island China claims as its own, state media said on Tuesday.
Missouri Gov. Proposes Banning Drivers Licenses to Illegals
Gov. Matt Blunt today proposed adding Missouri as yet another state to ban illegal aliens from receiving drivers licenses and is proposing criminal penalties to those who help illegals get drivers licenses.
As a person who was in a car accident in 1996 with two illegal aliens who were driving while intoxicated and without insurance, I say, "it's about time!"
From the Kansas City Star:
As a person who was in a car accident in 1996 with two illegal aliens who were driving while intoxicated and without insurance, I say, "it's about time!"
From the Kansas City Star:
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) _ Gov. Matt Blunt announced another piece to his crackdown on illegal immigration today: a legislative proposal that would bar Missouri from issuing driver's licenses to people who are in the state illegally.
The state already has safeguards intended to prevent illegal immigrants from getting driver's licenses, but Missouri lacks a specific law against it, Blunt said.
"This would clarify in law that the state of Missouri will not issue a driver's license to an illegal immigrant," Blunt said Monday during a news conference at the Kansas City Police Department. "And it would create penalties that do not exist today for those who attempt to help an illegal obtain a driver's license."
State Rep. Ben Hodge Endorses Thompson
Kansas State Representative Ben Hodge endorsed Senator Thompson today. “If the United States is to remain a world leader, our leaders must confront the moral issues of human life and government size,” Hodge said.
Rep. Hodge's endorsement appears to be the only endorsement by a Kansas elected official beside Sen. Brownback's endorsement of Senator McCain.
Rep. Hodge represents part of Overland Park, Kansas in the state legislature. He was originally elected to the JCCC Board of Trustees in 2005 and then to the State Legislature in 2006.
Ben Hodge and I worked together on the Kobach for Congress campaign in 2004. I am proud to be able to call Representative Hodge a friend.
Also See:
Race 4 2008
Rep. Hodge's endorsement appears to be the only endorsement by a Kansas elected official beside Sen. Brownback's endorsement of Senator McCain.
Rep. Hodge represents part of Overland Park, Kansas in the state legislature. He was originally elected to the JCCC Board of Trustees in 2005 and then to the State Legislature in 2006.
Ben Hodge and I worked together on the Kobach for Congress campaign in 2004. I am proud to be able to call Representative Hodge a friend.
Also See:
Race 4 2008
N. Korea Executes Man for Making International Calls
Add this one to the Barbarism File. Again, Kim Jong-il proves that he is barbaric. This is probably why he is "so ronery, so ronery."
From MSNBC
In the mean time, the UN has been accused of covering up the UN Development Programme funneling millions in hard cash to North Korea.
From MSNBC
SEOUL, South Korea - North Korea has resumed frequent public executions, among them a factory chief accused of making international phone calls who was shot in a stadium before 150,000 spectators, a South Korean aid group said Monday.
In the mean time, the UN has been accused of covering up the UN Development Programme funneling millions in hard cash to North Korea.
VP Cheney Found to Have A-Fib
From FoxNews.Com-
Update from Reuters:
VP Cheney needed to be cardioverted for his a-fib. However, he already has an internal pacer and defibrilator. I am wondering why this didn't stop the a-fib and if we will hear soon that the Vice President will need to have another heart proceedure.
WASHINGTON — Vice President Dick Cheney will undergo further evaluation Monday of an irregular heartbeat, found Monday morning during a checkup for lingering cold symptoms, Cheney's office said
Doctors found atrial fibrillation, an abnormal rhythm involving the upper chambers of the heart.
Cheney is expected to go to George Washington University Hospital in Washington, D.C., for further evaluation and, if needed, will undergo cardioversion — delivery of an electric impulse to the heart, which is a standard treatment for atrial fibrillation.
Update from Reuters:
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney, who has a history of heart problems, was treated with an electric shock for an irregular heartbeat discovered during a doctor's visit on Monday, his office said.
Cheney, 66, one of President George W. Bush's closest advisers, returned home from the hospital after the procedure, which required sedation, and will resume his normal schedule at the White House on Tuesday, his office said.
VP Cheney needed to be cardioverted for his a-fib. However, he already has an internal pacer and defibrilator. I am wondering why this didn't stop the a-fib and if we will hear soon that the Vice President will need to have another heart proceedure.
Reuters: New Message Coming from Bin Laden
From Reuters:
Also Covering:
The Jawa Report
DUBAI (Reuters) - Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden will address the people of Europe in a message to be posted on the Internet "soon", an Islamist Web site said on Monday.
"Soon, God willing, (we will post) a new message to the European people from the lion Imam who defeated the Americans and tyrants, Sheikh Osama bin Laden," said the pro-al Qaeda Web site which regularly posts messages from the militant leader.
"Let this message be posted by various Western Web sites so that we deliver to them the truth of their lost war and (confront) them with the purposely hidden fact," it said, adding that the message was produced by al Qaeda media arm As-Sahab.
Also Covering:
The Jawa Report
Iranian F-4 Crashes into Persian Gulf
According to the Associated Press, an Iranian F-4 Phantom crashed into the Persian Gulf this morning, killing both crew members.
These are aircraft purchased from the US during the 1970's and due to the various embargo's against Iran, they have not been able to purchase spare parts from the US. However, the F-4 has been sold around the world and it is possible that parts could be purchased from other vendors.
There are a few questions though that cause me some concern.
First, why did Iran report this so quickly after it happened? They are not known for openness of the press. I have done a quick google search and only found a couple other references to Iranian military aircraft crashing.
Second, the Iranian military refers to the pilot and his back seat person as "martyrs." I find that wording to be interesting.
Third, this crash is in an area full of US ships, including a couple of Battle-Carrier Groups. But there has been nothing released from US Central Command. The US Navy MUST have seen the aircraft go down.
This is one of those events that makes me wonder if there is more to the story.
These are aircraft purchased from the US during the 1970's and due to the various embargo's against Iran, they have not been able to purchase spare parts from the US. However, the F-4 has been sold around the world and it is possible that parts could be purchased from other vendors.
There are a few questions though that cause me some concern.
First, why did Iran report this so quickly after it happened? They are not known for openness of the press. I have done a quick google search and only found a couple other references to Iranian military aircraft crashing.
Second, the Iranian military refers to the pilot and his back seat person as "martyrs." I find that wording to be interesting.
Third, this crash is in an area full of US ships, including a couple of Battle-Carrier Groups. But there has been nothing released from US Central Command. The US Navy MUST have seen the aircraft go down.
This is one of those events that makes me wonder if there is more to the story.
Brothel Endorses Ron Paul
PLEASE-- Insert your own joke here!!!
From FoxNews.Com
Also Covering:
The Jawa Report
From FoxNews.Com
RENO, Nevada — Republican presidential candidate Ron Paul, an underdog Texas congressman with a libertarian streak, has picked up an endorsement from a Nevada brothel owner.
Dennis Hof, owner of the Moonlite BunnyRanch near Carson City, says he was so impressed after hearing Paul at a campaign stop in Reno last week that he decided to raise money for him.
Hof and two of his prostitutes, Brooke Taylor and a woman who goes by Air Force Amy, attended a Paul news conference.
Also Covering:
The Jawa Report
Friday, November 23, 2007
Thompson on Gun Control, Giuliani and NYC
One of the reasons I like Fred Thompson is his ability to talk straight and speak his mind. At the same time by biggest complaint about Rudy Giuliani is his Second Amendment stance. Both of these things came together today in a New Hampshire gun shop according to FoxNews.com.
Senator Thompson also makes an important point about New York City. It does seem from time to time that Giuliani forgets that there is more to the country than just New York City, but to be fair, most people from New York City seem to forget that there is more to the country than just New York City.
BRISTOL, N.H. — Fred Thompson said Friday while visiting a New Hampshire gun store that former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani should stop bringing up the Big Apple on the campaign trail and criticized him for consistently supporting gun control legislation.
Thompson's popularity in early-voting New Hampshire has sunk rapidly in recent weeks, but his visit to Skip's Gun and Sport Shop to trumpet second-amendment rights could be geared toward libertarian-leaning primary voters in the state.
And the usually laid-back Thompson aimed his tough talk straight at the Republican frontrunner.
"(Giuliani) simply supported just about every gun control legislation that came down the pike. And I just disagree with him on that.... over the years and he's been very outspoken about it. Of course he's not outspoken about it anymore," Thompson told reporters with a smile. "It's a major differentiation. He relates everything to New York City ... Well, New York City is not emblematic of the rest of the country.
"And the sentiments of those people in the rest of the country are in support of the second amendment. This is where I've always been ... and I don't think he's ever been," he said.
Senator Thompson also makes an important point about New York City. It does seem from time to time that Giuliani forgets that there is more to the country than just New York City, but to be fair, most people from New York City seem to forget that there is more to the country than just New York City.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
The Un-heard Thanksgiving Day Political Statements
With less than a year now from the presidential election, and less than 7 weeks until New Hampshire's Primary, there should be no doubt in anyone's mind that every move, action or word from any of the major candidates will be "spun" in an attempt to gather even one more "point."
In this spirit, I have searched the web, made phone calls, investigated, called in favors, and even bribed a member of a campaign staff or two, to find out what the Candidates are "REALLY" thinking about or doing this Thanksgiving 2007.
Senator Clinton-
Senator Obama-
Senator McCain-
Rudy Giuliani-
Mit Romney-
Senator Thompson-
Mike Huckabee
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and remember to say a prayer of Thanks for the Men and Women serving our country in harms way this year.
In this spirit, I have searched the web, made phone calls, investigated, called in favors, and even bribed a member of a campaign staff or two, to find out what the Candidates are "REALLY" thinking about or doing this Thanksgiving 2007.
Senator Clinton-
Today Hillary Clinton will be having Turkey- although there was a huge debate among the Senior Staff regarding whether this Turkey should be a Tom or a Hen? Would the sex of the bird she chose send the wrong message to voters? Would choosing a Hen alienate male voters?
Later today, the Senator will be releasing a statement- "Turkey's like this will live longer, once we approve my Universal Health Care Plan."
Meanwhile, the Secret Service will be standing guard as Bill Clinton eats a young chick.
Senator Obama-
Senator Obama will be having "soul food" today in a subtle attempt to remind voters that he is.....
Senator McCain-
Senator McCain will be having turkey. As he prepares to carve it, he will look up at the table of guests and remind them that he was "trussed up just like this bird" during Vietnam.
Rudy Giuliani-
Mayor Giuliani's campaign will be releasing a statement today that the Mayor is on his third turkey, and that no Turkey Farm has been destroyed by terrorists because of his leadership after 9/11.
Mit Romney-
Gov. Romney's campaign staff has spent the last several weeks searching for just the right bird. First he has a problem, because the Turkey is the Massachusetts State Bird.
The bigger issue though for the Campaign staff was to find a bird that only had one mate-- after all, a polygamist bird might just remind voters that he is a Mormon.
Senator Thompson-
Senator Thompson will be having traditional southern deep fat fried Turkey. The Senator went hunting for it himself. He came upon an entire flock, and they all dropped dead from the force of the Senator's stare.
Mike Huckabee
Gov. Huckabee will also eat a bird this year. He will release a statement saying that this bird reminded him of how many baby chick's never make their first peep, because of the untold number that are turned into omlette's while still eggs.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and remember to say a prayer of Thanks for the Men and Women serving our country in harms way this year.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Fred Thompson on DC v. Heller
Senator Thompson's view of the Second Amendment is Perfect:
Also Covering:
The Jawa Report
Ray Robison: Pointing Out the Obvious
"The Second Amendment does more than guarantee to all Americans an unalienable right to defend one’s self. William Blackstone, the 18th century English legal commentator whose works were well-read and relied on by the Framers of our Constitution, observed that the right to keep and bear firearms arises from “the natural right of resistance and self-preservation.” This view, reflected in the Second Amendment, promotes both self-defense and liberty. It is not surprising then that the generation that had thrown off the yoke of British tyranny less than a decade earlier included the Second Amendment in the Constitution and meant for it to enable the people to protect themselves and their liberties.
You can’t always predict what the Supreme Court will do, but in the case of Heller and Washington, DC’s gun ban, officials in the District of Columbia would have been better off expending their efforts and resources in pursuit of those who commit crimes against innocent people rather than in seeking to keep guns out of the hands of law-abiding citizens who would use them only to protect themselves and their families. And that is why appointing judges who apply the text of the Constitution and not their own policy preferences is so important."
Also Covering:
The Jawa Report
Ray Robison: Pointing Out the Obvious
Supreme Court to Hear Second Amendment Case
The Supreme Court granted a petition yesterday to hear District of Columbia, et. al. v. Dick Anthony Heller.
The court will decide the following question: Does DC's ban on the ownership of handguns violate the Second Amendment rights of those that are not part of a state-regulate militia but want to have handguns or other firearms for private use?
In My Humble Opinion-
YES
The court will decide the following question: Does DC's ban on the ownership of handguns violate the Second Amendment rights of those that are not part of a state-regulate militia but want to have handguns or other firearms for private use?
In My Humble Opinion-
YES
School Political Correctness Gone Too Far
This came to my attention this morning thanks to a person I work with. KMBZ Morning Talk Show Host Darla Jaye's sho this morning spent time discussing the suspension of Travis Grigsby from Lee's Summit West High School. Travis is Boy Scout just shy of Eagle, drummer in the marching band, and honor roll student, who was suspended from school, originally for ten days, because he said he knew how to tie a noose.
According to Fox-4 in Kansas City, this occurred after a football game as the band was packing up equipment. There was a discussion of what knots were best to use to tie up the band equipment.
Fox-4 reports:
YES, I KNOW, Bethel School District v. Fraser puts limits on Freedom of Speech for students; however, Tinker v. Des Moines clearly states that students do not "shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate" and provides boundaries for the School as well in determining when a student's speech may be restricted. The District in this case punished a student for saying he knew how to tie knot. It does not appear from the press accounts that this was disruptive. It only appears that a single student was offended. Why this student was offended though remains unclear to me.
To me, this is a case where a School's attempt to be "politically correct" is trampling all over a student's limited right to Freedom of Speech.
And yes, I know how to tie a noose. I also know how to tie a slip-knot, a sheepshank, a half-hitch, a square-knot and MY SHOES— I guess I should get suspended too.
According to Fox-4 in Kansas City, this occurred after a football game as the band was packing up equipment. There was a discussion of what knots were best to use to tie up the band equipment.
Fox-4 reports:
Someone asked if anybody knew how to tie a noose and Travis did admit he knew how to tie a noose," Kim Grigsby said.This is a complete travesty of justice and I personally question whether this student's civil rights- namely free speech- have been violated.
Travis' mom said her son is almost an Eagle Scout, he knew how to tie it, but told his friends he wouldn't because you could get in trouble for that. Later, a black student on the drum line told the teacher he was offended.
"Travis was accused of using a racial slur for saying the word 'noose.' Then he was suspended for 10 days," Kim said.
She said the school district accused the boys of having a racially charged conversation about nooses, but Travis and Alex insist that's not what happened.
The school reduced the suspension to five days.
YES, I KNOW, Bethel School District v. Fraser puts limits on Freedom of Speech for students; however, Tinker v. Des Moines clearly states that students do not "shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate" and provides boundaries for the School as well in determining when a student's speech may be restricted. The District in this case punished a student for saying he knew how to tie knot. It does not appear from the press accounts that this was disruptive. It only appears that a single student was offended. Why this student was offended though remains unclear to me.
To me, this is a case where a School's attempt to be "politically correct" is trampling all over a student's limited right to Freedom of Speech.
And yes, I know how to tie a noose. I also know how to tie a slip-knot, a sheepshank, a half-hitch, a square-knot and MY SHOES— I guess I should get suspended too.
NY Times: Things Getting Better in Iraq- Hell Freezes Over
Yesterday, it was 72F in Kansas City, today the high will be 37F with Snow. I believe I have found the cause.
The New York Times printed an article (which I hear is on the front page) saying things were GETTING BETTER IN IRAQ and THE SURGE WORKED!!!! Please pull out your winter coats and send them to Hell--- it has frozen over!
I am amazed that I am actually writing this, but I am going to say this is a must read article.
Some highlights:
The New York Times printed an article (which I hear is on the front page) saying things were GETTING BETTER IN IRAQ and THE SURGE WORKED!!!! Please pull out your winter coats and send them to Hell--- it has frozen over!
I am amazed that I am actually writing this, but I am going to say this is a must read article.
Some highlights:
The surge appears to have worked
People are returning to homes
Liquor stores are open (proving that the Islamic Extremist are not running everything)
People are returning to work
People are staying out past dark
Saudi Court Defends Sentence of Rape Victim
This is one of those mornings that I am motivated by OUTRAGE to write.
The Saudi Courts are defending their action of increasing the sentence of a 19 year-old VICTIM of Gang Rape. Originally the girl was sentenced to just 90 lashes with a whip for being in a car with a man that was not a relative. However, on appeal the courts increased her sentence to 200 lashes and 6 months in jail.
I was outraged when I first wrote on this. However, my outrage has now increased.
According to reports from FoxNews.Com the Saudi Courts are saying that the victim should have appealed without "resorting to the media."
Of course the State Department response is weak and despicable. "State Department spokesman Sean McCormack avoided directly criticizing the Saudi judiciary over the case, but said the verdict 'causes a fair degree of surprise and astonishment.'" Our response should be one of OUTRAGE. But of course, we cannot offend our Partner for Peace in the Middle East.
How can a nation call itself civilized when it participates in activity of this sort. This is precisely the reason why the Founding Fathers of the US did not want a State Religion. This activity is being done in the name of God; the name of the same God of Christians, Jews and Muslims.
Further this is a nation that WE send BILLIONS of DOLLARS to, in the form of defense funding and OIL purchases. If there was anything that could push me to wanting to mandate getting rid of gasoline in this country, this is it.
This should also be a wake up call to the Religious Right of MY party (yes, I am a card carrying member of the GOP). This is what happens when Politics, Law and Religion are mixed. This may be an extreme example, but it is a slippery slope that leads to this.
The Saudi Courts are defending their action of increasing the sentence of a 19 year-old VICTIM of Gang Rape. Originally the girl was sentenced to just 90 lashes with a whip for being in a car with a man that was not a relative. However, on appeal the courts increased her sentence to 200 lashes and 6 months in jail.
I was outraged when I first wrote on this. However, my outrage has now increased.
According to reports from FoxNews.Com the Saudi Courts are saying that the victim should have appealed without "resorting to the media."
Of course the State Department response is weak and despicable. "State Department spokesman Sean McCormack avoided directly criticizing the Saudi judiciary over the case, but said the verdict 'causes a fair degree of surprise and astonishment.'" Our response should be one of OUTRAGE. But of course, we cannot offend our Partner for Peace in the Middle East.
How can a nation call itself civilized when it participates in activity of this sort. This is precisely the reason why the Founding Fathers of the US did not want a State Religion. This activity is being done in the name of God; the name of the same God of Christians, Jews and Muslims.
Further this is a nation that WE send BILLIONS of DOLLARS to, in the form of defense funding and OIL purchases. If there was anything that could push me to wanting to mandate getting rid of gasoline in this country, this is it.
This should also be a wake up call to the Religious Right of MY party (yes, I am a card carrying member of the GOP). This is what happens when Politics, Law and Religion are mixed. This may be an extreme example, but it is a slippery slope that leads to this.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Christmas List: Flight Simulator X: Acceleration
It's the time of year to start compiling a Christmas list. Generally, every year, when I asked what I want, I always say, "I don't know." This year I can definitely say Acceleration for Flight Sim X. This package looks awesome—especially head to head internet aircraft races… Of course, the new throttle quadrant from Saitek would be good too, but I don't wish to appear greedy.
From FSInsider.com:
From FSInsider.com:
Developed by ACES Studio, "Flight Simulator X: Acceleration" adds a wealth of new content and features, allowing gamers to race against each other in amazing, highly-detailed locations around the world. Aviators are able to test their skills and heroism in many new missions while enjoying three exciting new aircraft and the ability to share rewards, photos and videos with friends and the broader flight simulator community.
Clinton Campaigning 101- Have Dirt- Novak Sticks by Story
Welcome to Clinton Campaigning 101- "Have Dirt on Your Opponents." This type of thing is quitesential Clinton campaigining. We all saw this type of thing in 1992, so why are we surprised now and why shouldn't we believe Bob Novak. This is par for the course. Even the fictionalized Clinton Campaign – Portrayed in the movie, "Primary Colors"- held this type of tactic. Have dirt, or say you have dirt, leak to the press that you have the dirt, and force your openent to quit or slam him with what you have. This is the Clinton Campaign machine in action. We saw it before, so why shouldn't we see it again?
From Foxnews.com:
UPDATE: IMAO has published a list of possible Obama Scandals. I think my favorite possible Obama scandal is "He's never actually done drugs. He just said he did so the other politicians would think he's cool."
From Foxnews.com:
WASHINGTON — Columnist Robert Novak stood by his story Monday that the Clinton campaign is spreading the word that it's holding back on dishing dirt on Barack Obama, and charged the Democratic frontrunner with playing "Nixon tricks."
Novak, a FOX News contributor, added that he did not believe there were any Republicans behind the effort — as some have alleged since his column was published Saturday — to force Democrats to fight against each other.
Novak's initial report said: "Agents of Sen. Hillary Clinton are spreading the word in Democratic circles that she has scandalous information" about Obama, "but has decided not to use it. The nature of the alleged scandal was not disclosed."
UPDATE: IMAO has published a list of possible Obama Scandals. I think my favorite possible Obama scandal is "He's never actually done drugs. He just said he did so the other politicians would think he's cool."
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Sen. McCain Gets Something Right
Yes, I am from Arizona- and very proud of it. And yes, Sen. McCain is from Arizona as well…but I have serious issues with Sen. McCain and I will not support him in the primaries. However, it is nice to see him land some punches on Sen. Clinton. The good Senator is certainly right in his statement about Hillary. She does everything she can to follow the polls and try to be on everyone's side-at least for now. She will however show her true liberal colors if, God forbid, she gets elected.
From FoxNews.com:
From FoxNews.com:
RINDGE, N.H. — Making people mad is a good thing, presidential hopeful John McCain said Sunday in a speech aimed at playing up the Arizona senator's outsider reputation.
"I didn't seek public office to go along, to get along," McCain said, trying to remind voters of the "maverick" label that helped him defeat then-Texas Gov. George W. Bush in New Hampshire in 2000. "I went to Washington to get something done for the people who sent me there. And since then, I know I've made some people angry."
McCain said Democratic candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton has done everything she can to land on the popular side of most issues.
"On the one hand, Senator Clinton says we can't abandon Iraq to Al Qaeda and the influence of Iran. On the other, she wants a firm deadline for withdrawal that would do just that," McCain said. "Senator Clinton rejected unconditional talks with Iran, but now says she would negotiate with no preconditions."
Smuggler Given Immunity by US in Shooting Case, Arrested
Under the topic of Illegal Immigration - And YES I do support freeing Ramos and Compean.
From Digger at Digger's Realm:
From Digger at Digger's Realm:
Osvaldo Aldrete Davila, the drug smuggler who was given immunity by US Attorney Johnny Sutton to testify against Border Patrol Agents Ramos and Compean, was arrested on drug charges at the Zaragoza Bridge along our southern border yesterday, Nov 15, 2007. He will appear in court this afternoon and faces a total of 5-40 years and $2 million dollars in fines for drug smuggling.
Huckabee Rejects States Deciding About Abortions—What Happened to the 10th Amendment?
Presidential Candidate Mike Huckabee came out Sunday stating that abortion is a federal issue. I personally would like Gov. Huckabee to show me in the Constitution where the abortion issue is specifically assigned to the purview of the Federal Government. Abortion has NOTHING to do with interstate commerce; it has NOTHING to do with free speech or freedom of religion; and has NOTHING to do with anything Federal. Abortion is a State issue. Gov. Huckabee and those like him are destroying the Republican Party and TRUE conservatism. Conservatism is supposed to be about keeping true to the Constitution- not about currying favor to the Religious Right.
Gov. Huckabee needs a lesson in history at minimum based on his comparison of Abortion to Slavery. The constitution SPECIFICALLY spoke about and allowed for slavery. This issue was therefore a federal issue. The issue of Abortion should NEVER have been a Federal issue. Roe v. Wade should not have ever been heard in any Federal Court and the Supreme's should have
referred the case to the States.
On this issue, I must agree with the comments of Senator Thompson.
From FoxNews.com-
Gov. Huckabee needs a lesson in history at minimum based on his comparison of Abortion to Slavery. The constitution SPECIFICALLY spoke about and allowed for slavery. This issue was therefore a federal issue. The issue of Abortion should NEVER have been a Federal issue. Roe v. Wade should not have ever been heard in any Federal Court and the Supreme's should have
referred the case to the States.
On this issue, I must agree with the comments of Senator Thompson.
From FoxNews.com-
WASHINGTON — Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee rejects letting states decide whether to allow abortions, claiming the right to life is a moral issue not subject to multiple interpretations.
"It's the logic of the Civil War," Huckabee said Sunday, comparing abortion rights to slavery. "If morality is the point here, and if it's right or wrong, not just a political question, then you can't have 50 different versions of what's right and what's wrong."
....In a separate interview aired Sunday, Thompson said Roe v. Wade, the landmark Supreme Court decision allowing legal abortion, should be overturned, with states allowed to decide whether to permit abortions. "We need to remember what the status was before Roe v. Wade," he said.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Dem Debate Stacked for Clinton?
Hmmm--- so CNN is being accused of dictating "random" audience questions, stacking the deck and going soft on Sen. Clinton...
Also Covering:
The Jawa Report
Original Story:
Marc Ambinder (November 16, 2007) - "Diamonds v. Pearls" Student Blasts CNN (Updated With CNN Response)
Also Covering:
The Jawa Report
Iran calls for US nuclear apology?
Iran wants the US to APOLOGIZE???? For what? The response from the US should be a very carefully considered, thoughtful and well worded, "Go to HELL!" First, why should any of us trust anything from the IAEA. Second, why should anyone think that Iran is actually being truthful? I am more inclined to believe that Iran learned from the mistakes of its next door neighbor (Iran) and does a better job of hiding things. Further the report says that Iran" had clarified 'some' of its nuclear history, but questions" remain about its current activities. This is the understatement of the year. There are big questions, like, what is Iran enriching uranium for? If not for their own bomb, perhaps it is for one for Syria or Hamas?
From the BBC:
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has said the US and its allies should apologise for their treatment of Iran over its nuclear programme.
Mr Ahmadinejad said the latest report by the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) showed Iran had been truthful about its nuclear activities.
The IAEA found Iran had clarified some of its nuclear history but questions remained over present activities.
The US has vowed to push for further UN sanctions in the light of the report.
The IAEA report praised Tehran for making progress in responding to questions about past activities but warned that the agency's knowledge about Tehran's current nuclear programme was diminishing.
It said that Iran was continuing to enrich uranium in defiance of demands by the UN Security Council.
In Allah’s Name- Victim of Rape Gets Jail & Lashing
Is there any reason for me to comment about this ruling from our Middle-East Peace Partner? Does this type of outrage really suprise anyone?
From the International Herald Tribune-
From the International Herald Tribune-
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia: A Saudi court sentenced a 19-year-old woman victim of gang rape to six months in jail and 200 lashes —more than double than in her initial sentence for being in the car of a man who was not her relative, a newspaper reported Thursday.
The decision Wednesday was a shocking move by the General Court in the Saudi city of Qatif, in a case that had sparked debate about the kingdom's justice system when it surfaced over a year ago.
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