Don't Get Comfortable

by pneuma, Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 10:45:49 AM EST

So back in 2004, after it had been clear we had been led by an idiot for four years, I was positive that the country would elect John Kerry and we could start working our way out of this mess.

We all know how that turned out. This time, even though the climate is right for us, we have chosen to make things more difficult for ourselves. We are trying to elect a black man president.

There are many out and out racists in this country who will not vote for him. There are some of Hillary's supporters who are too angry and will not vote for him. There are a large group of religious conservatives who would (and did) elect a chimp as long as it was anti-choice.

This election is by no means assured. We cannot afford to get comfortable. It is time to roll up our sleeves and get to work - the future of our country depends on it.

My challenge to each and every MyDD reader, is to post what you will do to help our candidate get elected in the fall. Let's challenge each other to work harder, and come up with better ideas for how to accomplish our goals. I will start:

I, pneuma, pledge to the following between now and the General Election:

1. I will donate no less than $25 a month to the Obama campaign.

  1. I will donate no less than $25 a month to the DNC.
  2. I will make a single donation of $50 to a state Democratic campaign that looks to need assistance in my home state.
  3. I will put an Obama sign in my yard. That should make my neighbors thrilled.
  4. I will replace the sign when my neighbors trash it.
  5. I will sign up as a volunteer to the Obama campaign.
  6. I will sign someone else up as a volunteer to the Obama campaign.

I have never contributed to a campaign before this year; heck, I don't even let them have the $3 on my taxes. My contributions represent something the Dems have never had before. I challenge you all to do the same, and share with us your pledges.




Tags: 2008 GE action general election (all tags)

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Just a psychological addendum (2.00 / 5)

Obama supporters have a thing we do: assume that we're 10 points behind in the polls and that the opponent has all the advantages.

The hill is surmountable, but it will take a lot of effort to climb and put behind us.

So... campaign like we're 10 down, because the polls suck and we can't take any chances.


You can't stop the signal.

President "That One"

by Dracomicron on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 10:49:11 AM EST

Re: Just a psychological addendum (1.00 / 0)


What I would love to see from Obama is a bold statement and pledge back to the people.

In the 1st year of his presidency he will:

1. have a plan and a withdrawal of troops started from Iraq

2. Healthcare commission to start the ground work for a law that gets passed no later than his 2nd year

3. Start a commission and a law ready for energy independence by his 2nd year

4. Send signal to the supreme court that if they are to retiree (certain judges), then they would be appreciated to do so no later than 2 years into his presidency.

5. Have Louisiana rebuilt by the 3rd year of his term.

This is pledge to you fellow Americans. Barack Obama!


Rise / Repeat / But for god's sake don't spin!
by aliveandkickin on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:08:13 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Just a psychological addendum (2.00 / 4)

I agree with your first 3, but the fourth sounds like political poison to me. A presidential candidate (or a president, for that matter) has no business telling a Supreme Court Justice when s/he should retire. It's a lifetime appointment, for better or for worse. If some of them retire, that's great.  But he has no business pushing them out the door.

The fifth pledge is a no-brainer, I think.


"It pays to be obvious, especially if you have a reputation for subtlety". Salvor Hardin
by Denny Crane on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:26:26 AM EST
[ Parent ]

HEALTH CARE.. (2.00 / 2)

Obama has to WORK really hard to win over Middle America and independents and the ONLY way he is going to do that is to DITCH his healthcare plan comepletely and adopt a VIABLE PLAN, THAT WON'T LEAVE OUT ALL THE UNINSURABLES THAT DON'T HAVE CORPORATE JOBS AND ALSO WONT RAISE RATES FOR EVERYBODY (the two cancel each other out- because the uninsurables get priced by risk, and the cost to insure them as individuals or as families will be sky high) If they price insurance only by age, like some states do, without a mandate (and subsidies) then rates will go up a lot of everybody.

So, we only have two choices, Hillary Clinton's healthcare plan, or a RADICAL akeover of our complete healthcare system, basically single payer.

That would take years.. People can't wait years. Now they have been forewarned that the Democrats have been waffling on the issue, don't for a minute think that the GOP arguments, lame and impossible as they are, won't fall on receptive ears. PEOPLE ARE DESPERATE. THEY CANNOT AFFORD TO PAY WHAT THEY ARE BEING ASKED TO PAY. IT IS DESTROYING COMMUNITIES RAPIDLY.

What I am saying is that 'business as usual' is NOT GOING TO DO IT. Hillary's strong performance towards the end of the primaries should be a wake up call to all Democrats to make AFFORDABLE HEALTHCARE AND DRUG COVERAGE - MUCH CHEAPER THAN ANYTHING AVAILBLE NOW FOR EVERYBODY- NOT JUST THE UNUSUAL AND 100% WELL 'NORMAL FAMILY'.

HEALTH INSURANCE IS SUPPOSED TO HELP PEOPLE WHO GET SICK, NOT JUST THE NORMAL.

'FAIR' PRICES ARE NOT BY DEFINITION ALSO AFFORDABLE. FOR EXAMPLE, WHAT IS A 'FAIR' RETAIL PRICE FOR $300/barrel gasoline?


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:08:11 PM EST
[ Parent ]

The MANDATE pays for A LOT that we wont get... (none / 0)

ANY OTHER WAY..

We can subsidize premiums for those who will cost more. yes, it is a lot of money but we will get it back in renewed vigor in the economy as people start businesses, change jobs because SUDDENLY THEY WILL BE FREE TO MAKE LIFE DECISIONS BASED ON THEIR COMMON SENSE AND NOT BY HEALTHCARE.

Do people realize just how SCREWED UP this situation is for people who have some chronic illness who dont get insurance through work.

NONE OF YOU PEOPLE HAVE A CLUE.


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:18:05 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The MANDATE pays for A LOT that we wont get... (none / 0)

Architek,

I agree with you pretty much totally down the line when it comes to the issues.  I would prefer universal single-payer healthcare, but we now have mandated health insurance here in MA and I don't see the drawbacks to it as compared to "without mandate"; I see it pulling people into coverage who would not bother otherwise.  This has gone hand in hand with an extension of government supports here.  As I said, I agree with you down the line with this.

Where we diverge has been our choice of candidate.  I believe, listening to Obama's take on the economy and most issues, that his stand on health care was about pragmatism.  I believe he can be trusted to make the best decisions possible as the debate on this unfolds.  Passing legislation on this scale is a long road and the twists and turns are unpredictable.  Based on his analyses of other components of his platform, his goals are sound and I trust him to navigate that road successfully.  I hope you will come around to extending some good will here.  Also, I hope you will make your priorities known to the Obama campaign, and, hopefully, the Obama presidency.

By the way, I have never been covered by my workplace for health insurance; it's always come out of pocket, so I understand what it is like when buying insurance takes up 25% of your income.  


by mady on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 04:17:27 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I hope that you are right. But the impression (none / 0)

that I have gotten so far is that they are being evasive in the way that people are when they intend to steal from you. If it works out that Obama does not make making healthcare really affordable for everybody, not only the well, then I will GLADLY take back everything I said and then some.

I think that Obama needs to immediately sit down with the people who actually do know a lot about this issue and put together a plan to get from here to there. Then he should poll all of the Democrats, ESPECIALLY those who are up for re-election in the fall. The ones who wont commit to universal healthcare, soon, I think we should do what we can to replace them. Even if they mean well, they need to understand that this is a crisis situation. You have 5 times as many people dying each year and probably 4 or 5 times that, over a hundred thousand people suffering from serious healthcare events that end up costing FAR more than prevention would.. because increasingly people can't afford basic healthcare.

I have a situation that I am dealing with right now. There are a number of tests that I need to get done that I can't afford to pay out of pocket for. My insurance does not cover them. Instead, my various doctors keep sending me in for the same 20 or 30 tests, over and over, and they don't listen to me when I explain the kinds of things that I know I have. I know more about my illness than they do.

Its gridlock and I just dont know how to break through it. There are hundreds of thousands of people in my situation. Most of them have been brainwashed into thinking its something else. But, surpise, they never get better. They just keep needing expensive everything. drugs, tests, etc.
The system is really corrupt, so corrupt that even the doctors and gatekeepers tasked with maintaining the whole reality distortion field are getting angry and tired of lying.

What am I angry about? Being made sick by something that isn't illegal and not being able to get help. Playing Russian roulette with housing and losing, and the system writing me off.

My old apartment was found to have high levels of chemicals that are used in biological warfare inside of the walls. Levels that were very high, as high as I have seen in any papers on the subject. (They are extremely powerful, around the 60th most toxic poisons known) We documented this using several labs. The samplers followed chain of custody, etc. its all documented. But I am not injured enough to get a lawyer. Plus, almost nobody wins these cases. They want money upfront, money we dont have. Our income is a fraction of what it was. They basically dont take many cases from renters. They like multimillion dollar home cases. I can walk, I can talk, I am not dead. My memory is really screwed up and I have not been able to work. (I used to do computer work which I could not even begin to do yet., although I hope to be able to find a cure, somehow)

I have chronic fatigue. I have tons of weird, autoimmune-like symptoms. For a long time my lungs were really screwed up but they are somewhat better now. My eyes are really screwed up but again in some ways I have been slowly getting better. However, I have a degenerative eye disease. Big parts of my body are numb, with nerve damage.

Everyone would say 'sue' but it is not easy. I have pretty much decided it is not what I want to spend the next five years doing. Also, how can you get work if you are arguing that you are disabled?

Its not something many people seem to have thought ot, except the defense people. The killers. They have it all thought out, and then some,

I am also now past the statute of limitations. I like most people hoped that I would get better. Few people do though enough so that they are 'well'.

However, my state seems to make a special exception for them because they were not artificially produced..
(they were produced by bad maintenance)

Now my health is a mess, and nobody knows anything about this except for a few experts, many of whom I am on a first name basis with. But they are geared up to help rich people who are suing, not sick people who simply want to get better.

:(

This is an issue a GOOD political candidate could get behind. Its hurting a lot of people.

But friends of slumlords?

Not a very large chance.


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 05:13:08 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: HEALTH CARE.. (none / 0)

This is an extremely important point and is the sole reason why I, an Obama supporter who donated to and voted for him, am in favor of Hillary holding on to her delegates.  


by redwoodsummer on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 02:28:35 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: HEALTH CARE.. (none / 0)

The president does not make the law.  Congress does.  It matters little whether Obama sticks with his healthcare plan or adopts Hillary's.  Either way the plan will have to be changed significantly in order to pass.  Obama made the choice to start with something closer to what he thinks is likely to pass.  Hillary went with something closer to what she sees as the ideal.  

Either way its about strategy not about what is ultimately desirable.  Obama is on the record saying that if he were starting from scratch he would make it single payer and some commentators have argued that his plan is designed to ease the transition to single payer.


by rschmidt65 on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 03:53:30 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Obama has not DONE anything or even SAID anything (none / 0)

Te stuff he DID say 'on the record' was MANY years ago when he was running for election in a district where that is what he needed to say to get elected.

Even if you ignore the fact that he has adopted the Cooper approach..its still sickening to see a politcian misleading people and the media helping him deceive.

Obama is not a 'pragatist'. he truly wants to just let this issue die. If he did not, HE WOULD HAVE BEEN HONEST IN THE PRESENTATION OF HIS PROGRAM BUT THAT WOULD HAVE REQUIRED THAT HE ADMIT THAT A HGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE WONT GET HELPED.

At least Austan Goolsbee was honest enough

to explain that people's expectations were JUST PLAIN WRONG, but then the media for the most part IGNORED HIM.

It was like a carbon copy of the events in 1994.

Nobody who works with insurance believes Obama on this issue. Spin just makes it worse. Best if he just would keep his mouth shut because he makes people angry by trying to milk their emotions and not delivering anything but empty 'hope'.


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 05:26:24 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Just a psychological addendum (none / 0)

I agree it would be inappropriate for him to tell any justice it's time to retire. But I hardly think it will be necessary. I bet they've worked out the order and timing amongst themselves. At a bare minimum, there is no way the Bush v. Gore dissenters are leaving voluntarily until Bush leaves the White House. But I'd be shocked if some of them aren't itching to get out.


by Mobar on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 02:08:49 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I don't think its appropriate at all.. (none / 0)

if he does that, he will alienate a LOT of people. Let the judiciary decide when they want to retire.


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 06:12:13 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Just a psychological addendum (none / 0)

About the Supreme Court thing...are you assuming that it will take more than a year to get somebody confirmed? That doesn't make sense...


by Alice in Florida on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 10:05:16 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (2.00 / 7)

1. I will donate no less than $25 a month to the Obama campaign.

  2. I will donate no less than $25 a month to the DNC.
   3. I will make a single donation of $50 to a state Democratic campaign that looks to need assistance in my home state.
   4. I will put an Obama sign in my yard. That should make my neighbors thrilled.
   5. I will replace the sign when my neighbors trash it.
   6. I will sign up as a volunteer to the Obama campaign.
   7. I will sign someone else up as a volunteer to the Obama campaign.

Hey, good on you for that!  

Donate today, people!
  l
  l
  l
  V


Torture me once, shame on you; torture me and get away with it, shame on us all.
by freedom78 on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 10:57:22 AM EST

I will keep bringing up ways we can improve (1.00 / 3)

I will not shut the f*** up.

I will not let the Democratic Party BETRAY AMERICA is they FOOLISHLY take people who NEED their help FOR GRANTED.


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:10:57 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I will keep bringing up ways we can improve (none / 0)

Are you replying to anyone in particular, or just trying to start a fight?


by dirtyhippie on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:36:46 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I will keep bringing up ways we can improve (2.00 / 1)

I will keep bringing up ways we can improve

I will not shut the f*** up.

I have no problem with that...but what does it have to do with my comment?  


Torture me once, shame on you; torture me and get away with it, shame on us all.
by freedom78 on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 02:18:49 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I gave a hide rating to its comment. (none / 0)

It appears to be just a random rant and had nothing at all to do with your comment.  Mojo to you.


by edg1 on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 03:20:24 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I will keep bringing up ways we can improve (none / 0)

To Architek, this is the single most critical issue of the election for him, for reasons detailed in a previous diary he wrote.  I believe, and he can correct me if I'm wrong, that this is the premier issue for him, and the lack of debate on the topic here in MyDD is frustrating to someone in his position.  I get that.


Congratulations Steny Hoyer! Our 2008 Chickenshit Leader Of The Year!
by RockvilleLiberal2 on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 04:31:41 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Great diary (2.00 / 14)

Honestly, I feel a little freaked out when I hear the predictions of what a blow-out this is going to be. Counting chickens before they hatch.

It is much better to go into this feeling like the underdog and really gear up for the longhaul fight.

This isn't going to be a landslide without a LOT of work between now and November. McCain is a formidable opponent, as hard as that is to believe from where I sit here in true-blue-NYC. I don't know anyone who will vote for McCain... but they are out there and there are millions of them.

I was a Clinton supporter. Frankly, I am exhausted, pissed off, sad, beaten up and beaten down. I'm not Obama's base... I'm not a fan. He was my last choice of all the candidate running. But he's the nominee and I will absolutely get behind him. Right now I'm taking a break from the donating and the campaigning (I was a maximum donor for Clinton and spent countless hours working to make her the nominee). I don't feel much enthusiasm for Obama at the moment, but I am on-board to defeat McCain. Obama has my vote already, he does have to win my over-the-top support to drive me to go the extra mile for him with my precious time and money.

So, here's what I'll commit to at the moment:

- I'll put on Obama bumper sticker on my car (but I may keep the Hillary one too for awhile longer).

- I'll donate a nominal amount to his campaign ($5), just to show that I will support him and add +1 person to his online donor rolls.


"Life is too short, time is too precious, and the stakes are too high to dwell on what might have been." Hillary Rodham Clinton - June 7, 2008
by twinmom on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 10:59:39 AM EST

That's all we can ask for, for now (2.00 / 7)

It's still more than a lot of folks.

I'm confident that Obama will win even greater support from you as time goes on.


You can't stop the signal.

President "That One"

by Dracomicron on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:12:35 AM EST
[ Parent ]

There are districts in Manhattan that have a lot (2.00 / 1)

of BIG Republican donors.. that is for sure..

OVERCONFIDENCE WOULD BE A HUGE FATAL MISTAKE FOR THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY.


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:12:46 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Obama MUST do a big rally in NYC (2.00 / 1)

If anyone has any pull with his campaign... tell them I said so.

He should get to Madison Square Garden PRONTO!

Or maybe a big outdoor event in Central Park?

But he absolutely HAS TO come to NY.

I'll be there if he does.


"Life is too short, time is too precious, and the stakes are too high to dwell on what might have been." Hillary Rodham Clinton - June 7, 2008
by twinmom on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:20:20 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama MUST do a big rally in NYC (2.00 / 1)

it's tough to argue for a massive rally in a state that will clearly go Democaratic in the fall.  But I understand the sentiment.


Congratulations Steny Hoyer! Our 2008 Chickenshit Leader Of The Year!
by RockvilleLiberal2 on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 04:33:51 PM EST
[ Parent ]

That is exactly the kind of arrogance that I don't (none / 0)

understand.. That quite frankly, scares me.

New York bore the burden of becoming a target for terrorists because they had a beef with US foreign policy and US corporatism, and then Bush, Whitman, etc, insist that there is no roblem, the dust isn't toxic, everyone just needs to GO BACK TO WORK AND KEEP SPENDING MONEY.. right? Result, tens of thousands of people are now SICK. Many of them disabled, and they are struggling. Then, the "presumptive" Democratic nominee presumes that since they are all already in his pocket, THEY DON'T MATTER ENOUGH TO RATE A FEW HOURS OF HIS TIME?

Doesn't that just take the cake..


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 06:02:14 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Cities like New York are gentrifying rapidly.. (none / 0)

Working class people are being pushed out of NYC, especially Manhattan, but really, all of NYC is gentrifying VERY quickly.

Even recently marginal neighborhoods are suddenly sprouting new ultramodern high rise buildings with seven figure pricetags for apartments. Older buildings are being allowed to fall into such disrepair that many of the people eventually get the hint and move. Its no fun trying to live without heat or with many other issues that your landlord WON'T fix. Sometimes they even send thugs around to threaten people. Or burn buildings down.

At the rate its happening, in another 20 years, NYC will be a big amusement park for the ultra rich.

Already, every year, a huge number of families, older people, and even many (most) of the creative types that make these cities interesting find that their housing suddenly has been pulled out from under them, and if they look for other places to live they realize that they have been priced out.


public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 06:33:47 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama MUST do a big rally in NYC (none / 0)

If you look at where huge numbers of donations come from, New York is probably in the top two or three. New York is a huge state, and has a huge media market that hits PA, NJ, CT. We unrich people in New York would love to have a big rally. Actually, two or three. One could be for voters with the many candidates for CDs that we are taking from the Republicans this year. One could be to raise a huge amount of money from the huge number of wealthy people who come in and out of this city on a daily basis. And one could be a massive rally for women and their friends and family. We do tend to have events here that get covered around the country as well, and in NYC there are typically more people from other states roaming the streets  and taking in the amazing scope of things there are to do, so NY has national benefits. We also still have a Republican controlled State Senate and recently got rid of a Republican Governor. We elected a Republican Mayor. The MUST part is not really debateable.


by Jeter on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 06:03:20 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Don't take the Hillary sticker off at all (2.00 / 9)

Both of them sounds just right.  People need to see that.  It really can help.  What you're showing is that the Demcocratic platform that will effect the lives of millions of people is more important than the individual candidates we hang our hopes on.  

I hope you can eventually enjoy this season.  But until then, I sincerely tip my hat to you for seeing past your frustrations to do the right thing.  


by Sun Dog on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:13:12 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Well... not that I actually use my car much! (2.00 / 9)

Plus, everywhere I drive is solid-blue... I live in NYC with a house upstate and my family is in MA and RI. But still... I do drive through CT occasionally!

Thanks for your note... and the hat tip. I don't deserve much credit, for me it is a no-brainer.

I'm a core Democrat, have been my entire life. But 4 years ago I became a mother... and I watched Kerry lose while holding my sleeping twin infants. Four more years of GWB for the start of my sons' time on earth. Ugh.

This is too important to be petty and hold grudges.

Obama must not lose.


"Life is too short, time is too precious, and the stakes are too high to dwell on what might have been." Hillary Rodham Clinton - June 7, 2008
by twinmom on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:22:57 AM EST
[ Parent ]

I became a father (2.00 / 4)

at the same time.  We're definitely motivated by similar things.  We had both of our girls in the years of Bush and war and it's time to start fixing things.  

I should tip my hat again for the twins!  I have a cousin and two different friends who have had twins.  It's tough enough with one at a time, you twin parents are serious warriors.  


by Sun Dog on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:30:29 AM EST
[ Parent ]

You're wrong (2.00 / 4)

Twin parents aren't serious warriors at all... we're serious peacemakers. :)

But thanks again for the hat tip.

UNITY! Let's win this one for our kids.


"Life is too short, time is too precious, and the stakes are too high to dwell on what might have been." Hillary Rodham Clinton - June 7, 2008
by twinmom on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:47:38 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Don't take the Hillary sticker off at all (2.00 / 2)

That is a fantastic point.


Saxby Chambliss
by bosdcla14 on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:13:15 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Don't take the Hillary sticker off at all (2.00 / 2)

here here


Government derives its power from those that it governs.
by lockewasright on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 02:44:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Great diary (2.00 / 5)

You rock, and thanks. And I agree with my fellow posters - keep the Hillary sticker on too. :)


Yes. We. Did.
by pneuma on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:22:39 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Great diary (2.00 / 3)

I think it would be GREAT if you had both bumper stickers on your car -- That would be a wonderful signal that all Democrats are united to take back the WH,


We care about politics because we know politics matters for people's lives and opportunities.
by politicsmatters on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:32:16 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Wow (2.00 / 2)

So much mojo for a mere $5 and a bumper sticker! What will I get if I give Obama $20? Ha!

Thanks for all the love.

UNITY!


"Life is too short, time is too precious, and the stakes are too high to dwell on what might have been." Hillary Rodham Clinton - June 7, 2008
by twinmom on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:03:27 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Wow (none / 0)

There are times when I wish I could give double mojo.

This is one of those times.

Way to go, twinmom!


by jdusek on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:12:47 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Obama has a way of growing on you (none / 0)

you'll see.


We shall overcome. Yes we can.
by Sam Wise Gingy on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:57:47 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I recommend you Keep your Hillary Bumper Sticker (none / 0)

right alongside your Obama bumper sticker the entire election.

As a matter of fact, I'm going to run out today and see if I can do the same, even though I voted for Obama.


by redwoodsummer on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 03:01:52 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Hedge your bets? (none / 0)

The CIA used to do that.. from what I have
read they often backed both sides of coups...insurrections, etc.
public option=not affordable for middle. It cant cover all affordably, google adverse selection for why
by architek on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 06:09:21 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Here in Iowa (2.00 / 6)

we have precinct teams all over the state from the caucus season.  The campaign is asking us to reach out to all of our neighbors who volunteered for Edwards, Hillary and all the other candidates to expand the precinct teams for the general election.  

What I'm going to do for the general election is what I did for the caucus.  Make damn sure Obama wins Iowa.  We're going to knock on every door we can and talk to everyone we can.  

Happily, the weather will be a lot nicer than it was in the final months of the caucus campaign.  Talking to people on their porches on a beautiful fall day in Iowa is really some of the best politics I've ever experienced.  Then again, on the sub-zero days Iowans often invite you in which is nice too.  

Iowa is where the whole style of the Obama camapaign came into existence.  The power of it comes from activating as many people as possible.  The campaign was dynamite at empowering you, making you feel like a direct representative of the candidate.  That's what needs to happen nationwide.  Everyone in the country should hear from at least one of their neighbors why Obama is a better choice than McCain.  

When I ran into someone who was already enthusiastic about Obama, I didn't leave it at that.  I would let them know they were no different than I was and get them signed up as a volunteer too.  

I'll be talking to my neighbors.  


by Sun Dog on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:08:12 AM EST

My Commitments (2.00 / 5)

1. I will donate as much and as often as I can.  I am a grad student so this won't be much, maybe a couple hundred between now and november.

2. I will walk my neighborhood and try to get people registered.

3. I will be a strong and well-informed advocate for Obama on my campus.  Nothing is worse than a poorly-informed advocate.  Get informed.

4. I live in California and plan to travel to Nevada or Colorado the week before elections to strengthen the ground game there.  If we are up in both, I will go to the state that we could lose.  If we are down in both, I will go to the state we will have the best chance in.

Vote Hope.


McCain = bad Obama = good
by CAchemist on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:12:03 AM EST

Re: My Commitments (2.00 / 3)

I love your number three. I will add it to my list.


Yes. We. Did.
by pneuma on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:24:10 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Mine (2.00 / 6)

  1. Minimum $20/month to the Obama campaign
  2. Minimum $20/month to DNC
  3. Minimum 100 phonebanking calls/month
  4. Sporting the gear - T-shirts and bumper sticker
  5. Donating out-of-state to downticket Dems in close/promising races when I can
  6. I'm writing up a campaign primer of sorts, comparing all facets of Obama vs. McCain - policies, resumes, associations, controversies, etc. - anything that the average person might be interested in. I'm giving it to every conservative in my family. It will include my "verdict" on which candidate is stronger in the various areas, but it will be framed by their ideological differences rather than simply villifying McCain.

John McCain: The kids aren't alright, my friends.
by differance on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:20:21 AM EST

Re: Mine (2.00 / 2)

You should post the primer here and allow people to use it.  It would be very helpful for others trying to sway family and friends.

Thanks


McCain = bad Obama = good
by CAchemist on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:24:36 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Mine (2.00 / 3)

Please post your primer back here. I'd love to see it.


Yes. We. Did.
by pneuma on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:26:37 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Not all Hillary supporters are angry (2.00 / 2)

many of us just need to be convinced by Obama, not by his supporters, that he can handle the job.

But aside from that it is insulting that you refer to us as angry, racist, or both.

Carry on.


by catfish2 on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:25:39 AM EST

Re: Not all Hillary supporters are angry (2.00 / 1)

I sincerely apologize if I offended you. I'll take more care in how I phrase things in the future.


Yes. We. Did.
by pneuma on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:28:48 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Don't worry about it (1.00 / 0)

If the candidate was worth voting for it might make a difference, but he is not so it won't.


by catfish2 on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:29:54 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Don't worry about it (none / 0)

You have two people who could become president. One will pursue Democratic policies, the other policies more like Bush's.  Figure out which option is better and vote.


We care about politics because we know politics matters for people's lives and opportunities.
by politicsmatters on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:33:16 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Well it depends which policies (none / 0)

On judges, no doubt Obama is better.

However, on other issues, McCain can make an argument.  It's no good to accuse McCain of being just like Bush, because it is relatively easy for him to disprove.

In one case, Obama has given cover to McCain's position.  IMO it would help a lot if Obama would promise not to pursue any other changes in Social Security than to fund it, perhaps by raising the FICA cap.  (Obama to Stephanopoulous-Nothing is Off the Table-well except privatization). Obama has left his position moot and nearly identical to McCain's, and it doesn't need to be.

If he gets very explicit here, he can strongly delineate himself from McCain in this respect.

This is particularly necessary since Obama is definitely raising the capital gains tax, which McCain is not doing.  Seniors disproportionately rely on investments and sale of properties to exist, and both are subject to cap gains.

OTOH, on global warming McCain has greater cred--McCain voted against Bush's energy bill, plus McCain introduced an energy independence bill with Lieberman which got shot down by the Republicans.  Obama voted FOR Cheney's energy bill.  Despite his nice energy plan, he's not believable on the subject at this time.

Health plan--I wish Obama would go to Edwards' plan.  His and McCain's both are unacceptable.

Given that  voting for Obama is basically committing to losing my house (due to the cap gains rise, especially if he goes to 28%), it's hard to work up any interest in working for Obama or donating to him.

But I do promise not to vote for McCain.

That's about all I can promise at this time.  Maybe I'd do more if Obama doesn't decide the best way to attack McCain is to indulge in the ageism of some of the Obama supporters.  It is damn hard to vote for somebody when they're going to severely affect your livelihood while they're showing complete disrespect to you, for sure.

If it gets too ageist, I'll be writing in Present for president.


"There are two kinds of statistics: the kind you look up and the kind you make up" --Rex Stout
by LIsoundview on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:14:42 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Well it depends which policies (none / 0)

There's also the war, which is a pretty big deal, economically speaking.


by ZombieRoboNinja on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 05:26:53 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Well it depends which policies (none / 0)

I think that like it took Nixon to go to China, it may actually be easier for McCain to stop the war than for Obama.  The question is whether I believe he'll do it or not.  However, I do understand that keeping people in a country, as we have done in Korea, for example, is not an active war, and that's what McCain means by 100 years.  


"There are two kinds of statistics: the kind you look up and the kind you make up" --Rex Stout
by LIsoundview on Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 05:59:49 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Don't worry about it (none / 0)

OK. But don't we have some say-so as to what those Democratic policies should be?  

I thought that was the whole point of being a Democrat anyway.


by redwoodsummer on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 03:10:38 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Don't worry about it (none / 0)

Sorry, PM, I somehow didn't take into account what you were repying to.


by redwoodsummer on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 03:12:44 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Don't worry about it (2.00 / 2)

No point in apologizing to catfish, pneuma, especially after such a lovely, uplifting diary. He's just a McTroll, here to continue to sow discord to guarantee the Republicans win in November. Diaries like yours are poison to him.

For most of the rest of us, including people (like me) who gladly voted for Hillary for Senate, and for who Obama wasn't the first choice either--though the Democrats always have been!--unity is the most important thing now. And your diary will help make it happen. Thank you.


by JoeW on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:36:47 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Not all Hillary supporters are angry (none / 0)

I don't believe that he stated all people not voting for Obama are angry, racist, or both.  But you must admit there are some people that fit into those categories.

I understand that Obama will need to work to convince you and millions of others to join the team between now and November.  I believe that he has the policies and mindset to do so.  


McCain = bad Obama = good
by CAchemist on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:30:52 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (2.00 / 3)

Currently, I donate about $20-25 a month to Democrats.  I pledge to make at least two of those donations to the Obama campaign and at least one to the DNC.  I promise to donate to downticket races so that the Republicans have to fight for every seat in every state.  I promise to advocate for Democratic positions and, if I can pull it off, I promise to go to the local Obama headquarters and see what I can do to help.


accepting McLettuce is like being 9 years old and forced to eat your own cooking
by Sychotic1 on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:27:29 AM EST

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (2.00 / 5)

I couldn't agree more.  It's very dangerous to predict that we're just going to roll over McCain in our sleep.  We should never underestimate the opposition.  McCain is wrong on damn near every issue, but people don't always vote issues, as we all know.  If they did, George W. Bush would have lost in a landslide 8 years ago.

He's a formidable opponent, and it's clear his fundraising isn't as weak as we'd hoped, either.  He raised a good amount of money in May, and that's only going to increase, so we have to do our part.

Don't be complacent or arrogant. Slap on those bumper stickers and yard signs ( I bought mine a few weeks ago, but haven't put it out yet - it goes out today). Donate. Volunteer.  Talk to your friends.  Engage McCain leaners in a respectful way.
We can get this done, but not by resting on our laurels.


"It pays to be obvious, especially if you have a reputation for subtlety". Salvor Hardin
by Denny Crane on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:33:03 AM EST

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (2.00 / 1)

I love your sig line!  Someone should sell buttons and/or button stickers that say that.


We care about politics because we know politics matters for people's lives and opportunities.
by politicsmatters on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:34:08 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (2.00 / 1)

great comment, Denny Crane.


by JoeW on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:37:32 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Pneuma, I agree with you and that is (2.00 / 6)

why we need to stop making snide remarks and taking cheap shots at Hillary and her supporters.

Our supporters need to fucking understand that the primary is fucking OVER.

I swear to god that if i catch one of you guys making any derogatory remark about Hillary or her supporters i will fucking cussing the fucking light out of you.

If our supporters are too fucking immature to understand that it is OVER, they need to get a fucking brain.

What i have been reading here these last couple of days is just beyond stupid. Some of our supporters are just to fucking dumb to understand that if 5 or 10% of Hillary supporters decide to stay home or vote for McCain in Ohio or Pennsylvania, we would lose those 2 states and the elections.

So, it is time to clean this site from fucking idiots and if you find one just cuss the shit out of him/her. Make them shut up.

Yes, i am extremely angry, as you can tell because i know that although elections are won in September and October and not June and July, we can easily lose them in early summer. And this election is far from over or even fucking won, you just have to look at the retention rate and the state polls.


by likelihood zero on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:39:33 AM EST

Normally I hate cursing (2.00 / 2)

But your rant had me laughing out loud.

Thanks... and I agree with you.


"Life is too short, time is too precious, and the stakes are too high to dwell on what might have been." Hillary Rodham Clinton - June 7, 2008
by twinmom on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:44:01 AM EST
[ Parent ]

I really do not cuss and i hate cussing (2.00 / 2)

but these last two days i have been reading some seriously stupid posts and comments, and yesterday i just could not contain myself and burst.

I worked in presidential campaigns before (1984 and 1988) and a large senatorial one. I spent the whole 1980s and part of the 1990s in electoral politics. I left that circus for a better pay in the private and because i have two daughters now. But once you are infected by the electoral politics virus, you are never cured. I still have friends who work in the DNC and survey institutes and we talk often and exchange data and analysis and the most common observation that we all have every time we look at the data is that Obama has high soft support. And let me say that this is not a good thing because i saw it before.


by likelihood zero on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 12:27:39 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Agreed (2.00 / 2)

We also need to be on the guard for freeper trolls pretending to be Dems just to stir up division.


by protothad on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 12:10:40 PM EST
[ Parent ]

You suck at cussing. (none / 0)

Your f-bombs are duds. This is almost painful to read.

i will fucking cussing the fucking light out of you.

For fuck's sake, man... just stay clean.


by Mobar on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 02:22:08 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: You suck at cussing. (none / 0)

How about that: fuck you. Is that clean enough for you?


by likelihood zero on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 02:38:25 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: You suck at cussing. (none / 0)

No.

(a) you still suck at cussing

(b) you missed the pun


by Mobar on Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 12:14:15 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (2.00 / 1)

I will continue to give Obama money, continue to volunteer my time for Obama, and wear my Obama button every day. I already have the yard sign & bumper sticker. The most important thing we can do now is go out and get people registered.  


"As Putin rears his head and comes into the air space of the United States of America, where-where do they go? It's Alaska. It's just right over the border."
by fugazi on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:41:59 AM EST

Donate? (2.00 / 3)

I'll work for the campaign. I'll work my ass off for the campaign. But I WILL NOT DONATE to the campaign. When I read of the hundreds of millions being spent on political campaigning, I am sickened.

Folks, we have had Clinton and Obama going at it for months, each telling us what they would do to help needy people. Then they would each talk about how many tens of millions they raised for their campaigns.

There are people starving. There are homeless people. Am I the only one who sees the disconnect here?


No way. No how. No McCain. . . . . . If you can ship a job to Bangalore India, you can ship a job to Flint Michigan.
by NJ Liberal on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:44:32 AM EST

Re: Donate? (none / 0)

Sorry to reply to myself, but...

There are children in Haiti eating mud. FOR CRISSAKES, THEY'RE EATING MUD!

And we're raising money for TV ads and confetti. Time to re-examine the priorities, I think.


No way. No how. No McCain. . . . . . If you can ship a job to Bangalore India, you can ship a job to Flint Michigan.
by NJ Liberal on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:49:13 AM EST
[ Parent ]

I agree with you NJ Liberal (none / 0)

I wish Obama had stuck to his pledge for public funding for the GE.

You're 100% right that the money being poured into these campaigns is absolutely gross... and the record-breaking fundraising and spending done by Obama and Clinton has set a new precedent and the bar is now higher than ever.


"Life is too short, time is too precious, and the stakes are too high to dwell on what might have been." Hillary Rodham Clinton - June 7, 2008
by twinmom on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:54:20 AM EST
[ Parent ]

I don't (none / 0)

It would have been unilateral disarmament. McCain's campaign might take public financing, but we are already seeing his creativity in getting around that. Throw in the activities of the 527s and Obama is going to need every dollar he can raise.


"Mom, baseball, apple pie, and a unified Democratic juggernaut."
by Purplepeople on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:30:37 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Donate? (none / 0)

I agree, but it's not going to make me consider Nader (been there, done that), since that will be the only other Left name on the ballot.  

Unfortunately, it takes money, lot's of money to win these things.  Otherwise, I'm positive Edward (my first choice) would be the nominee, since he had the policies most in tune with the people and looked like the strongest contender in the GE while he was still a going concern.

We'll have to take up the money issues later...  Hell, in '04 even Chomsky more or less endorsed Kerry.

I'll continue to donate.


by redwoodsummer on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 03:19:20 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Donate? (2.00 / 1)

No, you are not. But the reality is that elections are won and lost by that middle band of the country who don't give a shit. They are highly susceptible to advertising, and will vote for the guy who has the campaign commercials they like the most.

Just because we think other things are more important, does not mean the Republicans won't buy ads. We don't buy ads, we lose. It is that simple and disgusting.

It's kinda funny and off topic, but I've always called myself a liberal because it has been my perception that they are more pragmatic. We all agree legal abortion is a bad thing, but liberals acknowledge that the alternative is worse, while conservatives stand on principle. People of my father's generation think the conservatives are the ones that are pragmatic, and liberals are the ones with a reality problem. Go figure.

I applaud your commitment to work for the campaign. It is more than most people will do.


Yes. We. Did.
by pneuma on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:57:47 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Legal Abortion (none / 0)

Is not a bad thing.

In fact, it is the one reason I am not voting for McCain.

Legal abortion is what is done when you have a baby with no head or brain and the doctor removes it.

Legal abortion is what is done when you can't feed the kids you have or when an absence from work will get you fired.

I could go on, but trust me, not all of us believe legal abortion is bad.


"There are two kinds of statistics: the kind you look up and the kind you make up" --Rex Stout
by LIsoundview on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:21:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Legal Abortion (none / 0)

A procedure where a doctor removes an nonviable fetus is not an abortion, it is something else. I don't know what to call it, but abortion is not the word.

An abortion because you can't feed the kids you have or afford an absence from work is a fucking tragedy. If you believe that is a good thing, your priorities are seriously screwed up.

I strongly support a woman's right to choose. It doesn't mean I always approve of the choice.


Yes. We. Did.
by pneuma on Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 07:08:57 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Legal Abortion (none / 0)

I hate to tell you this, but the late term abortions you hear about are mostly for non viable fetuses and for fetuses with lethal genetic flaws like Tay Sachs disease.

And they are called <u>abortions</u>.  Not something else.

When late term abortions are banned, that is what's getting banned.

When your baby dies inside you, and abortion is a crime, they won't remove the rotting body.  

http://ipsnews.net/news.asp?idnews=39870

Abortion was criminalized in Nicaragua last year.  As a result, more than 90 women have already died:

Lobbied by the hierarchy of the Roman Catholic Church and conservative evangelical pastors, on Oct. 26, 2006 the Nicaraguan parliament approved the draft law to revoke article 165 of the criminal code, which had permitted abortion for medical reasons since 1893.

It applied in cases where the mother's life was in danger, the foetus was deformed or irreversibly damaged, or the pregnancy was the result of rape or incest. It required certification by at least three doctors, and the authorisation of the pregnant woman or her family.

It doesn't take a threatened death penalty for doctors to prefer to let the women die-a simple fear of loss of medical license will apparently do:

Studies by Sí Mujer indicate that 12 young pregnant women died from lack of care in health centres where personnel were afraid of the penalties of up to eight years in jail and loss of their medical licence for doctors who carry out or assist in abortions, even when the action is taken to save the expectant mother's life.

"In practice what is happening is a government death penalty imposed on women," said Pizarro, a gynaecologist.


"There are two kinds of statistics: the kind you look up and the kind you make up" --Rex Stout
by LIsoundview on Sun Jun 08, 2008 at 07:41:19 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Legal Abortion (none / 0)

I can only conclude that you are being deliberately obtuse.


Yes. We. Did.
by pneuma on Mon Jun 09, 2008 at 12:01:04 AM EST
[ Parent ]

I agree in principle, but... (2.00 / 1)

We do need to raise enough money to counter the republican spin machine, and I would rather that money is coming from individual citizens than lobbyists and PACs.  Remember, a lot of the world problems you mention will be more easily addressed when we kick out the neocons.

But I am not criticizing.  If you choose to donate time to the campaign and money to worthy charities, and can only praise that (and give you mojo).

Peace


by protothad on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 12:16:45 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (2.00 / 2)

I agree 100%.

My pledge:
-$20 per month to Obama.  If he falls behind in the polls, $50.
-$20 per month to the DNC.
-One time $25 to Hillary to assist with her debts.
-$50 total for a Dem pickup race in a red state.
-Buttons, stickers, and t-shirts sported, with extra for anyone who asks where to get one.

We can't sleep.  We're going to fight like we did back in November, when everyone said we should just "get out".  Like we're 15 points down.  We can do this.


John McCain wants to stay in Iraq.
by ihaveseenenough on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:46:48 AM EST

I'm done donating to Obama (2.00 / 1)

He will not have problem raising funds.

- I will be donating to local NC races and the DNC.  Specifically Kay Hagen to beat Liddy Dole.
Also some specific out of state races like Noriega in TX.  I've already donated to Murphy in PA.

- I will volunteer as much time as I can to voter registration efforts (starting tomorrow) and GOTV in November.

- I will become more active in my local precinct.
  (Something I have never done before.)

PH


by parahammer on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 11:53:21 AM EST

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (2.00 / 1)

Fiancee is headed to NM next Friday to be an Obama Fellow.  We've donated monthly and will increase in the Fall.

I also plan to give to a few targeted Senate campaigns.  Let's win this!!!


by zadura on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 12:01:03 PM EST

Done, Done, and Done! (2.00 / 1)

All except #3, unless neighboring States count too.

I am sending my local candidate money to help Jeff Merkley beat Gordon Smith in the Senate race next door in Oregon.

Jeff Merkley needs your help too, he is way behind Gordon Smith in fundraising.

http://www.jeffmerkley.com/


It's time to restore balance and fairness to our economy,... It's time to stop giving tax cuts to corporations that ship jobs overseas... - Barack Obama
by Lefty Coaster on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 12:23:20 PM EST

I pledge (2.00 / 1)

I don't know.  Honestly, it depends.

If he doesn't take federal matching funds, I pledge to donate money.

It will be really hard for me to go from working against Obama to working for Obama.  So, I'm going to try and convince everybody I know that McCain is the second coming of George Bush and volunteer for some down ballot races.


I'm a Rick-o-phobe.
by psychodrew on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 12:27:11 PM EST

Yup (none / 0)

You're right where I am...

I can't enthusiastically support Obama right now but I can enthusiastically oppose McCain.

We can keep each other company.


"Life is too short, time is too precious, and the stakes are too high to dwell on what might have been." Hillary Rodham Clinton - June 7, 2008
by twinmom on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 12:31:13 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Yup (none / 0)

the three of us can keep each other company.


by colebiancardi on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:17:52 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (2.00 / 1)

I'm back in New York but volunteering here doesn't make much sense. I have family in Florida (Orlando) so I'm thinking of taking a month off to help out there. I also pledge to donate 100 dollars per month.


Yawn.
by spacemanspiff on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 12:52:25 PM EST

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (none / 0)

I live in CA so I understand about the problem of finding a place to volunteer (though like me you have some bordering states where voter registration is going to be huge).

Phone banking though can work everywhere.  And is a huge help.  :)


the third eye does not weep. it knows.
by mijita on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:13:24 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I will vote for him in the fall (none / 0)

If Senator Obama puts Clinton on the ticket, I will donate money, put up a yard sign, and potentially canvas for him.  

I will consider making donations to candidates who supported Clinton, or who remained neutral in the race.  If they run together, I will consider all candidates.

I will also suspend all of my reservations and disappointments about Senator Obama's nomination and give him a chance to convince me that he was in fact the best candidate for us this fall.  

He deserves the benefit of the doubt, and regardless of any frustration at his nomination, he deserves the votes of all Democrats.


by activatedbybush on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 12:52:51 PM EST

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (2.00 / 1)

  • I'll donate to the DNC
  • I'll find a race or two that I will donate too (my state party is already dominant and the closest federal race that won't be a Dem blowout is probable ME-Sen but I have to educate myself on Allen's positions more before I donate)
  • I'll have an Obama sign in my window and/or a bumper sticker on my car (I generally don't like bumper stickers but I made a Deval Patrick exception for the MA Gov primaries and this election is too important to not make an exception even in deep blue country)
  • I won't let smears of Obama go unchallenged
  • I won't speak against any Clinton supporters online except for anti-Obama/pro-McCain rhetoric.
  • I will force myself to volunteer (I hate working the phones, I've never managed more than 10 at a time except on 2006 primary day (GotV for declared supporters) and again in 2006 (and those were DFA members primarily)).

McCain = Iraq. John McCain = overturn Roe.
by PantsB on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:14:46 PM EST

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (2.00 / 1)

What I'm doing:

1) 10 hours a month of volunteer work, probably doing voter registration in Latino and African American communities.

2) Keep making coffee at home so I can donate $50 a month to the campaign (why yes, I am a latte liberal).

3) Wear my Obama pin daily and be willing to give it to someone who asks about him.  (I've been order 5 at a time.)

4) Give McCain the evil eye whenever he comes on my TV or computer screen.


the third eye does not weep. it knows.
by mijita on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:16:34 PM EST

Let's see... (2.00 / 2)

I'm moving soon, and my finances will be affected for awhile. But I think I can give at least $15-20 to Obama and the DNC each month. If I can't quite manage it one month, I'll try to make up for it the next.

I'll put at least one Obama sticker on my car.

I'll hang an Obama yard sign from the balcony of my new apartment (I hope management doesn't get pissed).

As soon as I move, I'll find my local volunteer office and sign up.

I will become as intimately familiar with Obama's platforms and positions as I was with Hillary's, so that I can feel perfectly comfortable when I'm making calls.

I'll have an awesome "come to Obama (from Hillary)" story ready within the next month or two.

I will place special emphasis on talking to older Americans who voted for Hillary but may be somewhat uncomfortable with Obama.

I'll encourage Republican family members and (friends who are unhappy with McCain) to "vote their principles" and cast their (wasted) ballots for Bob Barr if they think he's the better candidate.

I know there are a lot of other things... I'll think about them as I go along.


by sricki on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:16:59 PM EST

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (none / 0)

You are right. John McCain is a very dangerous adversary. He just gave the worst speech in the history of the galaxy just to make you people feel comfortable. And nobody understood how brilliant that move was. Obviously it worked perfectly.
by french imp on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:20:00 PM EST

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (none / 0)

Nice one. It was truly a brilliant move. He'd even primed Kool Aid Kristol to trash him on Fox. Smart move.  


by ottovbvs on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 02:15:12 PM EST
[ Parent ]

My pledges (2.00 / 1)

1. Continue to donate money to Obama and other downticket races (I knew Darcy Burner in college and am determined to help get her elected).

2. Donate to the DNC

3. Attend at least one VA Vote for Change event and register voters (I live in MD so there isn't that much to do on the home front but VA is just 10 minutes away).


"Mom, baseball, apple pie, and a unified Democratic juggernaut."
by Purplepeople on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:34:45 PM EST

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (2.00 / 1)

I'm going to volunteer for Obama starting in July, and travel from the Bay Area to the nearest swing state for the days before the election.  In 2004, that was Nevada, and I suspect I'll be seeing rural Nevada again (yay!).

Oh, and I'll pitch in a few bucks here and there.


by Twin Planets on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 01:39:15 PM EST

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (2.00 / 1)

Watch the polls over the next few weeks. With Clinton off the scene and her supporters coming to terms with Obama, and McCain starting to get some more visibility and hence juxtaposition to Obama, they should start to move in Obama's direction. If by the end of June he's not sitting with a 8-10% lead we need to be somewhat concerned. Personally I think it's likely to happen. Having seen the other nights little performance by McCain and compared it with Obama's I'm starting to think McCain is in deep merde. So watch what happens. There are big differences between now and 2004 btw. The country has turned definitively against the war, the economy is in the tank, and the full extent of Bush's mendacity and incompetence has been laid out for all to see in events like Katrina, the Plame affair, Justice department corruption, and a myriad of large and small matters.    


by ottovbvs on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 02:12:54 PM EST

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (none / 0)

Yes, McCain is in trouble. The Democrats will unite. And there are forces working against McCain that no one has yet considered.

"Obama, Spock, and the New Star Trek Nation"
http://msa4.wordpress.com/


Mitchell Aboulafia
by Mitchell A on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 05:50:04 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I will... (none / 0)

I will Donate 10+ dollars monthly to Obama's campaign.

I will talk to as many fellow Soldiers as I can (disclaimer: when appropriate and in accordance with the articles of the UCMJ). In particular I will spread the word on the new GI Bill.

I will continue to post and blog on Obama's behalf.

In particular I will seek discourse with Republicans, Independents and undecideds.


Gobama!
by USArmyParatrooper on Fri Jun 06, 2008 at 10:11:28 PM EST

Re: Don't Get Comfortable (none / 0)

Thanks for this diary, pneuma.

I, Samizdat...

...promise to donate $50 to the Obama campaign.

...promise to donate $50 to the Democratic opponent of my local Republican congressman... and if I like the candidate, volunteer for the campaign.

...(since my state, Illinois, is a shoe-in for Obama ) promise to volunteer for phone-banking time the Obama campaign or for some other organization that is working to elect Obama as president.

...promise to wear a pin, put out a sign and do whatever else I can think of to put Obama's name out there.

If I could go door to door canvassing for Kerry, I'm sure I could do much more for Obama.  I didn't even like Kerry that much.  LOL

--sam


by samizdat on Sat Jun 07, 2008 at 07:03:08 PM EST


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