22
Jan
12

rise and shine

Morning everyone, I’ll be back later today – meanwhile, chat away 😉


328 Responses to “rise and shine”


  1. 1 collegekay
    January 22, 2012 at 8:31 am

    Good morning.

  2. 4 Renegade522/AuntSis
    January 22, 2012 at 8:33 am

    Good Morning to you and TOD family. Drinking my coffee and trying to catch up from last night.
    TTYL. Have a great day.

  3. 5 Ladz
    January 22, 2012 at 8:33 am

    Hey guys,thanks for keeping us sane,even thou i don’t comment on here most time,I read this blog all the time,just wanna say thanks

  4. 7 Proud Former White House Intern
    January 22, 2012 at 8:36 am

    Good morning Chips and TOD family.

  5. January 22, 2012 at 8:44 am

    Gee, Elliot Spitzer does not seem to like the President. Who knew?

    • 9 hopefruit2
      January 22, 2012 at 8:49 am

      Yup. He spends more time bashing Obama than he does Gingrich or Romney. He’s a failed politician and Obama’s relative success both politically and personally is bothering him immensely. It’s jealousy that’s driving it.

      • January 22, 2012 at 8:51 am

        Melissa is a big supporter of the President, but allows for only tepid defense of him!

      • January 22, 2012 at 9:16 am

        Hope, Elliot Spitzer is a loser. He had the world in his hand and arrogantly tossed it away to satisfy his own urges. He has no one to blame but himself, so he blames the good guy. Tells you everything you need to know about the content of his character.

        • 12 Debz
          January 22, 2012 at 11:13 am

          So I guess we can look forward to Elliot on the campaign trail with his fellow adulterer, Newt, any day now.

        • 13 anniebella
          January 22, 2012 at 12:46 pm

          Whenever anyone think of Elliot Spitzer, they think of one think. The big time New York AG hooking up with hookers.

    • January 22, 2012 at 8:50 am

      Anybody who wants to bash the POTUS is gold to the media. Non-stop.

      • 15 hopefruit2
        January 22, 2012 at 8:55 am

        And it’s getting tiresome. People can see for themselves the kind of man and politician that Obama is. We don’t need these attention-seeking media whores telling us what to think of our President. We know who he is and we’re voting for him in 2012.

        These “Obama-bashers” usually wind up destroying themselves and their credibility in the process. Right now how many people are care about Cenk, Olbermann, Hamsher, Grayson or Weiner?

  6. January 22, 2012 at 8:48 am

    After last night, I wonder how the Left and the Right Pundits and news shows will spin Newt’s win without mentioning race. I’m 60 years old. The last time “race” hit me in the face so hard was the margin of Hillary’s win over Barack in West Virginia. It was so sad for me as this was supposed to be Democrats.
    Nevertheless I am a confident, hopeful optimist.
    America will never elect HATE and PBO will win again in 2012.

    • 22 hopefruit2
      January 22, 2012 at 8:51 am

      I agree aamom. And as I wrote on the previous thread:

      Newt is going to come to regret that he ever dealt the race card, because it WILL be played (rightfully) against him when the time comes, not by the Obama campaign, but by the majority of voters who will not tolerate bigotry on the campaign trail (I’m looking at you, Palin). If Gingrich wins the nomination, he’s going to predictably try to move back to center in order to appeal to “moderates” or “Independents” and will be throwing less red meat to the bigoted base that exists in places like S.C. However, the problem is that the base that propelled him to the nomination in the first place will see this as being a traitor/flip-flopper. Secondly, he is already HIGHLY disliked by much of the mainstream GOP establishment and most Democrats (including PUMAS) cannot stand him for what he did to Clinton.

      As I indicated on Twitter, when you have to resort to dogwhistle lies like “food stamp President” and “teleprompter” jokes to get voters to support you, you’ve already lost the election.

      • 23 dotster3
        January 22, 2012 at 9:10 am

        I still can’t imagine that Newt will end up as their candidate. Too many forces are aligned against him, and there will be a barrage of negatives coming from the Repub establishment in an effort to take him down. First, many don’t like him in the least, and second, he barely registers on polls against PBO. So get ready for all the details of all the Congressional ethics violations to be exposed etc. And if the unthinkable happens, I don’t see Newt ever moderating his angry, racist appeal. It’s who he is, and no one tells him what to do. He’s going to defy all of them. And he owes his “success” to calling PBO a “moron”, to daring to be racist and outrageous and outraged—-to sliming the media and everyone in his path. Palin never tacked to the middle. She rode those divisive, racist dog whistles all the way. I expect Gingy to do the same.

        • 24 anniebella
          January 22, 2012 at 1:52 pm

          I sent a email to Wolf Blitzer, and I brought up about Newt Gingrich and his racists language. We know exactly what Newt is doing. The Republicans pull this B.S all the time, And I told Wolf about the comment someone made when in a room full of Southern white folks Newt was talking about President Obama, and some white person yelled “‘string him up”, now knowing the history of lynching blacks you would think Newt would show the same kind of anger there, that he showed when John King ask him about his 2nd wife. I let Wolf know that the media can not let Newt or anyone else get away with this kind of stuff.

          • 25 susanne
            January 22, 2012 at 2:39 pm

            thank you for putting that issue right onto the heads of the media. they need to step up and call these repugs on their shit.

      • 26 cuphalffull
        January 22, 2012 at 9:13 am

        The enemy of my enemy is my friend. Maybe this will finally bring in the PUMA’s and the Dixiecrats if Newtmentum takes off. I for one am glad to have had the opportunity to know about the dissembling that has gone on in the past. If people can’t help themselves and must come out and be who they really are, like Evan Bayh and Chris Dodd, because the President doesn’t give them cover anymore for their shenanigans, maybe its a good thing. Somehow by being true to his convictions of respect, empower, include the President is allowing the light to shine brightly on those who are not for real. Its amazing how it works. Look at Joe LIeberman and John McCain. Did we realize how compromised those people were before the President began running for the presidency?

        • 27 57andFemale
          January 22, 2012 at 9:37 am

          I’ve been thinking lately: there is no way Michael Moore and the other PL idiots can say, “Newt Gingrich is the same as Obama” and get anyone remotely left to take them seriously. Although since the PUMA’s and the tea party and unprecedented Republican obstruction have tried mightily to take over American politics, it is astonishing to me that there still is a large, vocal group of lefties who still think that voting your opposition is in some way beneath them. It’s okay to hate Republicans and the damage they will rain down on everything we hold dear, and vote against that. I’m sorry you’re not as in love as the day you got engaged, but seriously — who is?

          I frankly think Romney is in many ways just as, if not more so, dangerous — he is without a soul or conviction. he was only ‘moderate’ in order to get elected in MA but is not moderate at all. Gingrich scares me with his showmanship in debates and could grab the next day’s news cycle against Obama. But isn’t there a chance that a Gingrich nomination would FINALLY galvanize our base and scare the pants off them enough to VOTE?

          • 28 Lovepolitics2008
            January 22, 2012 at 1:46 pm

            I agree that Gingrich could galvanize the base and even the PL to go to the voting booth. But we should not underestimate GIngrich. His populism can get a bit of traction among independants. At first, it seems that Gingrich would be easier to beat. However, in these economic times, we should not underestimate a candidate who appeals to feelings of resentment and division.

            In my opinion, Gingrich is more profoundly dangerous for America ( and the world) that Romney ever could be. Romney may be weak in character and greedy, but Gingrich is at a whole different level. A peddler of hate and division, completely disrespectful of political institutions and traditions, amoral, mean, and on and on…. A sociopath… And I don’t think it’s hyperbole.

            • 29 Obama Grandmama
              January 22, 2012 at 2:27 pm

              I am agreeing with you on “Gingrich is at a whole different level. A peddler of hate and division, completely disrespectful of political institutions and traditions, amoral, mean, and on and on… A sociopath” I personally think it would be a battle of epic proportions like fighting the devil himself.

        • 30 desertflower
          January 22, 2012 at 10:43 am

          Morning everyone:) cuphalffull, I just have to commend you on your brilliant comment on the previous thread, summing up all the issues that , taken individually, we may have missed over the years….but when we see them, out in the open….all aligned, it gave me great pause.When the President talked about change, I don’t think he was merely talking about the things that he’s done so far. I think that he was talking about this underlying dismantling of equality for all the people,of the RW smear and fear machine,of the divisions that we have overlooked and/or tolerated. I had an epiphany. A “lightbulb” moment. It’s terrifying and at the same time, hopeful and empowering to see.Our job, is to put those ducks in a row for those that will over look this and just see things on the surface, not digging deeply….as you have done,to show the path that this country has taken in the wrong direction. I think when people say they think the country is going in the wrong direction, they may feel this inequality and division that you so eloquently pointed out….but not be able to put their finger on exactly what that is. These are the dots that need to be connected for them…and you did that in a spectacular manner.

          Is there a way to save your comment? I could not have put this into words better than you did.Thank you so much for your insight and clarity of thought..This is why we come here, and I am grateful to so many of us here for sharing insights like the one you have shared with us.

          • January 22, 2012 at 2:46 pm

            You’re so right. I went back to find and read cuphalffull’s comment, and I’m glad I did. When they’re all listed like that, it really makes one realize enormity of the forces aligned against President Obama, and how important it is for us to form just as large a force fighting WITH him and for ourselves.

        • 32 JoJothecat
          January 22, 2012 at 2:07 pm

          Good Morning Chips and TOD family,

          I want to thank you CHF for your analysis on the previous thread because I agree wholeheartedly. We have alot of work ahead of us and with OFA, DWS and the Democratic party we will prevail over the hate and slimely reiterrick of the GOP and MSM press-stitutes. PRESS ON OBAMA/BIDEN 2012!

      • 34 isonprize
        January 22, 2012 at 10:20 am

        A quote from my new favorite person to follow on Twitter!!! @SamuelCookIII

        Let me be clear–As a Democrat, there is not a single policy disagreement I have with Obama that can be solved by electing a Republican

    • January 22, 2012 at 9:14 am

      I was thinking the same thing, aamon…..whereas the news commentators discuss race and racism in the 3rd person…it is very much in the 1st person for me….

      that was a rabid racist crowd that Newt played to…stroking the fires of hate…resentment …..and …..fear…..

      It is a pity that Black commentators seem to be the ones that always have to be the one say it…

      Rev Al…calls it as it is….and even Tweety called it…..

      but there is a racist streak that still runs thru the very fiber of this country….but there must always be a push back against racism and the fear that it causes…

      but to end on a positive note…this is not 1955….
      and the President was able to pull together Americans of every hue and political persuasion into a Spectacular coalition for change…

      and i am extremely hopeful….that we can win the White House again and take back the Congress…and that hope will overshadow fear….and that we will continue to strive toward…to quote the President….A MORE PERFECT UNION….

      PRESSSSSSSSSS ON!!!

      • January 22, 2012 at 9:23 am

        Fear not! Their are a lot of White People, like me, who are not to happy with the Southern Republicans!

        • 37 JoJothecat
          January 22, 2012 at 2:11 pm

          Agreed Jovie,

          PBO did not get elected by one group or even one political party…there were white, black, brown, yellow, rich, middle class and poor, young, old, democrats, independents and republicans that supported PBO and WE WLL DO IT AGAIN! LETS STAY TOGETHER–OBAMA/BIDEN 2012!

      • 38 Debz
        January 22, 2012 at 11:22 am

        I just wish the msm would stop using the word “ethnic” instead of “racist” The two words are not interchangeable and it is time to call out racists for what they are. I too am hopeful though, I don’t see the majority of voters being that full of hate. I think most people want to be hopeful about the future.

    • 39 jacquelineoboomer
      January 22, 2012 at 1:10 pm

      aamom – Sadly, since I apparently was living in a dream world, the ’08 campaign was the first time in my life (and I’m 65 now) that I realized there were lots of Democrats who were racists. Opened my eyes big time. But – I’m with you – I remain on the side of hope and optimism!

      Now, let me think. Who are the most hopeful and optimistic on the ’12 slate? Oh, yeah, that would be President Obama and Vice President Biden! 4 more for 44 and 44-1/2 !!

      • 40 57andFemale
        January 22, 2012 at 1:47 pm

        I live in Chicago. I have known since the late ’60’s that Democrats can be proud racists. It’s what Daley built his machine on.

  7. January 22, 2012 at 8:53 am

    Intrade on President Obama: 55.8%

  8. January 22, 2012 at 9:04 am

    Newt again, doubling down on the food stamp President!

    • 48 SUE DUVALL SMITH
      January 22, 2012 at 12:37 pm

      OUR ALMIGHTY GOD LOVES A SOUL WHO CONSIDERS THOSE IN NEED BEFORE SELF. PRESIDENT OBAMA IS DOING A BEAUTIFUL JOB OF PRIORITIZING THOSE VALUES IN AMERICA. AS FAR AS I AM CONCERNED..THERE ARE ALOT OF SLEF-CONSUMED AND SPOILED AMERICANS OUT THERE WHO NEED TO DISCOVER THIS TRUTH DEEPLY WITHIN THEIR SOUL. SELFISHNESS AND GREED RUINS A COUNTRY. THE BIBLE IS LOADED W/ THAT UNFORTUNATE HABIT AND GOD WINS EVERY BATTLE OVER SELF-CONSUMPTION! THAT FACT WILL NEVER CHANGE! KUDOS TO PBO FOR STANDING ON THE SIDE OF JUSTICE AND EQUALITY FOR ALL! WE ARE BLESSED TO HAVE HIM AS OUR PRESIDENT!

    • 49 Obama Grandmama
      January 22, 2012 at 2:34 pm

      I am hoping those of you good at putting your thoughts into a concise message will challenge yourself to come up with a oneline comeback for the food stamp President. We all know that it is good that he is compassionate for those in need, but Newt counters that line with I will give them jobs not food stamps. We all also know the GOP is the party obstructing those jobs PBO has been trying to get through. It is the gift of brevity that seems to win. We need a comeback.

  9. 50 Bill
    January 22, 2012 at 9:07 am

    Newton Leroy, two minutes into his interview on MTP, is attacking the MSM and David Gregory. Of course, Gregory is not standing up to him.

    • January 22, 2012 at 9:08 am

      Gregory is afraid of newt, because of what he did to Jon king!

      • 52 Dudette
        January 22, 2012 at 9:59 am

        Apparently he’s afraid of everyone, cuz he doesn’t challenge anyone’s BS on his show. Instead he just lets it ooze all over his viewers, which is exactly why I haven’t watched MTP him since his first week as host.

        • 53 Dave
          January 22, 2012 at 10:09 am

          “Mr. Speaker, your scripted rage and indignation have impressed some, but look like an obvious and transparent tactic to divert attention away from your history of sordid and immoral behavior. You said that interviewing your ex-wife was, and I quote “the most despicable thing I can think of”. Do you understand why most Americans believe the facts of your past behavior (to use your word) are utterly despicable in the extreme? Accordingly don’t you understand Americans don’t at all feel there is anything wrong with your ex-wife’s right to speak out of her treatment by the man that is asking all of America for their trust and that the media’s coverage of these deplorable facts is their duty? “

    • 61 Ladyhawke
      January 22, 2012 at 9:15 am

      It’s “Look At That Shiny Object” on steroids. And therein lies the problem. The feckless media can’t even conduct an interview where a politician is challenged when his responses to questions are outlandish or just outright lies. The media has abdicated it’s responsibility to report the facts to the American people.

      • January 22, 2012 at 9:22 am

        They are corporate shills, not journalists. They are not mentally and educationally equipped to parry with a politician that is determined to strike at them. They’re very good at bullying people they know won’t strike back. But they fold in the face of a real bully.

        • 63 JoJothecat
          January 22, 2012 at 12:45 pm

          I heard a more appropriate term on the radio last night that will steal, “press-stitutes”. This describes the so-called news readers who do what their masters or “pimps” tell them to say and do.

          • 64 jacquelineoboomer
            January 22, 2012 at 1:14 pm

            This is why I’m down to watching only Rev. Al and Martin Bashir on a regular basis. They will speak over the din and get through the smoke and mirrors, and should have the best ratings on MSNBC. We can all help by watching each day, when possible.

  10. 66 Ladyhawke
    January 22, 2012 at 9:08 am

    SERIOUSLY, MITCH DANIELS IS GOING TO GIVE THE GOP REBUTTAL TO THE SOTU?

    This is a terrific post. It details the many GOP mistakes that are mounting up and making the Democratic Party giddy. They are self inflicted wounds that are making the GOP look disorganized, incompetent and out of touch with reality.

    AMERICA’S DEMOCRATS STRIKE MAJOR GOLD ON JANUARY 19th, 2012

    By Gary Ater

    ===============================

    Well, the Republican party has once again selected a questionable Republican to give the response to next Tuesday’s SOTU presentation. Their selection this year is the second term governor of Indiana, Mr. Mitch Daniels.
    .
    .
    So, what’s the problem?

    For those of you with short memories, you may have forgotten that Mitch Daniels was President George W. Bush’s first Budget Director. Even FOX’s Chris Wallace pressed Daniels on the Fox News Sunday show when he asked: “When you came in, this country had an annual surplus for the first time in 30 years of $236 billion. When you left, two and a half years later, the deficit was $400 billion. You were also there when President Bush launched his Medicaid drug benefit plan that now costs $60 billion a year. I know there was a recession, but do you think it was wise — at a time when we were fighting two wars — to have two tax cuts and launch a huge new entitlement?”

    And Daniel’s response: Daniels responded with, “It was a recession, two wars and a terrorist attack that led to a whole new category called homeland security,” he said. “So nobody was less happy than I to see the surplus go away, but it was going away.”

    Daniels went on to tell FOX that we shouldn’t even look at or consider his record from that era: “If you want to know what I think about fiscal issues, don’t look at the 2 1/2 years when I was in the supporting [White House] cast with no vote.”

    ============================

    Read much more here:

    http://commonsense-gater.blogspot.com/2012/01/americas-democrats-strike-major-gold-on.html

    • 67 jacquelineoboomer
      January 22, 2012 at 1:16 pm

      Sounds as though Daniels and Romney have the same scriptwriters.

    • January 22, 2012 at 1:24 pm

      Well, I’m not sure how many people will remember about Mitch Daniels being Bush’ budget director, or question why he stayed if he was opposed to their policies. Nothing seems to matter much as long as you aren’t President Obama.

  11. January 22, 2012 at 9:11 am

    I saw a photo of Gingrich standing on stage at the last debate and there he is: a lot shorter than I realized and can’t even button his suit jacket. UGH.

    • 71 jacquelineoboomer
      January 22, 2012 at 1:20 pm

      I noticed that, too (please don’t mention his middle again … thank you … ha!). I think Romney is the tallest. We all know that tall is something people subconsciously use as an indicator of [fill in the blanks] (some of the choices might be: strength, confidence, leadership). In my subconscious mind, President Obama is about … oh, I don’t know … 7 ft. tall !!!

  12. 72 Bill
    January 22, 2012 at 9:17 am

    Willard is going to release his 2010 and preliminary 2011 tax returns on Tuesday.

  13. 79 Marlz (@marjgra)
    January 22, 2012 at 9:24 am

  14. January 22, 2012 at 9:28 am

    Good morning all. I look at Newt’s presence as the agitator. Jeff B.will endorse Mitt, but they need Newt to motivate the GOP’s faithful voters. They know that these people need red meat in order to come out in Nov. And, they will even if Mitt is the nominee.

    • 81 Betsy
      January 22, 2012 at 12:02 pm

      That the republicans need “red meat” in order to vote is a sad commentary on the GOP party today. It is not the party of Lincoln anymore.

  15. 82 criquet
    January 22, 2012 at 9:30 am

    Good morning Chips,

    Thanks for your prompt reply and I am so relieved that I have not offended you or anyone else in the TOD family.
    I am only now able to respond as I had to take my puppy to the vet . He is being treated for lupus which affects his skin so we have had to visit the vet often and it is a continuing struggle. But, we are pressing on and staying together just like all true supporters of President Obama.

    Yes, let’s all press on .

    Good morning to everyone else as well.

    • 83 Bill
      January 22, 2012 at 9:36 am

      Criquet, I’ll bet $10,000 you let your puppy ride in the car and not on the roof. I hope your puppy gets well soon.

      • 84 criquet
        January 22, 2012 at 9:51 am

        Thanks Bill.

        Yes he does ride in the car and has taken over my house too! I am trying very hard to be “the pack leader” but it is a challenge when you have a super smart and adorable puppy.

        Your $10,000 is safe. Have a great day.

        • 85 57andFemale
          January 22, 2012 at 10:26 am

          Criquet, I have no idea what you’re talking about (wink-wink!!!)

          Hope puppy is doing okay. I’ve been through long illnesses with my doggies — it’s tough. But worth it all. Keep us posted.
          ]

    • January 22, 2012 at 9:44 am

      Glad to see you here criquet. Sorry about your puppy. It is always good to hear others caring for their pets rather than putting them down at the first sign of problems. I have lost two of my dogs in the last two months. I had been administering an IV every day and meds twice a day for my little rat terrier for over a year due to kidney disease. I had to put him down on November 26 after he no longer could eat. I then lost my miniature pincher after being diagnosed with diabetes two weeks ago. She had to be force fed and given an insulin shot twice a day. She died in her sleep early last Sunday.

      • 87 criquet
        January 22, 2012 at 10:13 am

        Sorry to hear . I know how difficult that can be.

        I lost another dog to cancer quite recently and that was heartbreaking since he had been a part of my family for 9 years and much loved.
        He is buried at home and remembered with love often. It took me 6 months to get another dog who now has this issue but we will take care of him and hope for a good resolution but in any event he is and will be loved .

        Nice to meet fellow “dog humans” . I call certain people that after I was given a hilarious book -One Hundred Ways For A Dog To Train Its Human by Simon Whaley.

    • 88 desertflower
      January 22, 2012 at 10:57 am

      I hope that your puppy is alright….as a HUGE animal lover, my heartaches when I hear of troubles 😦 Are you sure he has lupus? That’s an autoimmune disease…wondering if it could simply be that it is allergic to the food you feed it. (I only say this because I spent $$$$$ on my baby at the vet, put him on meds that she didn’t need to be on (steroids) only to find out that she was allergic to: corn, wheat.
      Her shin was so red and inflamed, she scratched herself silly, and her hair was falling out. A friend of mine suggested that I change her food to one without corn or wheat. Simple fix…..and now she doesn’t take any meds, and she is strong, healthy and her coat and skin are fine. Just wondering….I’m no vet 🙂

      • 89 Betsy
        January 22, 2012 at 12:03 pm

        Hi df, how is your husband’s job hunting going? Any leads? I am still thinking and praying for you that this will happen and soon.

    • January 22, 2012 at 12:47 pm

      Good luck with your pup, cricket. Hope he is doing better – my dogs send their barks to you as well.

  16. January 22, 2012 at 9:31 am

    http://cendax.wordpress.com/2012/01/21/things-i-learned-from-south-carolina/
    Short article on the SC primary

    “First, playing the racism card is a vote-getter. Newt, Santorum, and Ron Paul were dog-whistling like it was a contest, although Newt mainly just decided to stop whistling and go for the sirens.”

  17. 94 utaustinliberal
    January 22, 2012 at 9:36 am

    So Romney just announced that he’ll release his 2010 tax returns and the 2011 preliminary tax returns. In my opinion, that’s not enough. When then Sen. Barack Obama was running in 08 he released 8 years of tax returns and heck George Romney (Mitt’s dad) released 12 years of tax returns. Mitt should be forced to do the same. At the very least he should release 5-6 years worth of tax returns. Not cleaned up BS made to look as though he’s been paying his fair share and not taking advantage of those sweet tax loopholes and carried interest and oh yes, the Cayman Islands shells.

    • 95 utaustinliberal
      January 22, 2012 at 9:38 am

      P.S. Even GWB released 10 years of tax returns.

      • 96 Ladyhawke
        January 22, 2012 at 9:56 am

        SPEAKING OF PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH

        Chris Hayes just mentioned these statistics.

        ‘He Who Should Not be Named’

        By Steve Benen

        =========================

        There have now been 16 major debates for the GOP presidential field. The candidates have brought up President Obama by name 560 times. They’ve also invoked Ronald Reagan’s name 221 times. And what about the two-term Republican president whose policies these guys are eager to bring back? Poor George W. Bush has only seen his name come up “a pitiful 56 times.”

        =========================

        http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/political-animal/2012_01/he_who_should_not_be_named034905.php

    • 97 Bill
      January 22, 2012 at 9:41 am

      UT, you are right, it is not going to fly, but Newton Leroy is going to say it is enough to get the party establishment off his back on the issue.

    • January 22, 2012 at 9:49 am

      Good morning all. Regarding Romney’s tax returns, I heard David K. Johnson, the tax expert say that Romney should at least release his tax returns for the years when he was running Bain Capital to really see the “REAL” tax returns.

    • 99 vero804
      January 22, 2012 at 9:54 am

      I think it’s enough. We’re gonna get the idea – he’s loaded and pays a lower rate than the average American. I think we don’t want to overplay our hand on this issue of him releasing taxes, by now saying “2 years is great, lets have 8 or 12 or whatever.” IMO, once he releases them and it’s obvious about him paying a lower rate, we should pivot to that being the next issue and how his tax plan would lower his already low tax rate even more. I agree, however, that the Cayman islands issue is still ripe for the picking.

      That’s how I’d play it anyway.

      • 100 hopefruit2
        January 22, 2012 at 10:40 am

        I don’t think it’s enough because Romney is running on a platform of his “business” experience and his “success” as a business man vs. President Obama’s lack thereof.

        The voters need to know who exactly who was benefiting from all this “business success” while thousands of people were being fired from Bain, and how exactly they were benefiting. The fact that he is only releasing two returns suggests that he has managed to clean them up enough to make them look as if nothing spectacular went on. We need to see at least 6 returns.

      • 101 jacquelineoboomer
        January 22, 2012 at 1:29 pm

        vero – I agree with your points. Now, if the tables were reversed, Republicans would say the Dem candidate must be hiding the fact that he paid taxes to Kenya, etc., etc.

        But we Democrats are smarter than that. We can hone in on the important points, without making stuff up … like Mitt’s proposed tax plan which he can’t discount since he offered it up, and the fact he’s hiding funds in the Cayman Islands (which everybody understands is unethical).

      • 102 Obama Grandmama
        January 22, 2012 at 2:53 pm

        Maybe it could be brought up again in the GE that he needs more than that to equal what others have done by not doing it all now.

  18. 103 oneofthegirls
    January 22, 2012 at 9:37 am

    Each and every one of you on this blog are what is helping to ensure that the arc of history moves toward justice. Thank you. I lurk a lot, a lot, and cheer you all on.

  19. 110 Dudette
    January 22, 2012 at 9:51 am

    Chris Hayes just show the Newt-Chucky image on his show (“…because it cracks him up”) with evil laugh sound!!

  20. 116 Dave
    January 22, 2012 at 9:53 am

    First in this time zone!!

    (never mind which one)

  21. 118 Renegade522/AuntSis
    January 22, 2012 at 9:54 am

    Good Morning, again. Finally caught up from yesterday threads. I just can’t keep up with you guys. 🙂

    I am letting you know now; Miss Renee is not putting up with any foolishness on Tuesday. I have emails for the house speaker, Mitch Daniels & MSNBC punditry ready to go. I’m still a little scared of tweeter but I expect to be tweeting with ease come November.

    There better not be any shout outs of “you lie”, etc. NOT THIS YEAR! I AM ON OBAMA DEFENSE. Too many times, I have grumbled and mumbled to myself about the commentary after the SOTU. I keep expecting someone else to speak for me when NO ONE can speak for me. I AM THE ONE that I have been waiting for and I will have lots to say to them on Tuesday. I am not going to be quiet.

    They better ‘come correct’ as we say in my neck of the woods. The other side should sit in their seats with their hands folded in their laps AND keep their mouths shut.

    FIRED UP!! READY TO GO!!!

  22. January 22, 2012 at 10:10 am

    OK, it’s completely clear to me now – I didn’t get the excitement over PBO covering an Al Green song I didn’t recognize, but that was because this

    was our bread and butter in 1971 (soul music was for types who were afraid to wear denim 😉

    You know you are too old if …. *even* the president of the United States … is five years younger than you are.

  23. 123 utaustinliberal
    January 22, 2012 at 10:19 am

    For the first time in a long while I’m really disappointed in Fareed Zakaria’s panel. Arianna Huffington, Mort Zuckerman, David Frum, and Steve Rattner who worked as car czar for PBO and became a turncoat on Morning Joe. They’re all different sides of the same coin and they all wear false hats.

    • 124 criquet
      January 22, 2012 at 10:26 am

      Do you think that if you emailed him your views (with a couple of examples of the listed persons’ perfidy and contradictions) that it might help for future programs?

      • 125 utaustinliberal
        January 22, 2012 at 10:32 am

        I tweeted my disappointment to him. I generally like watching his show and hearing his view point. Hopefully he tries to get a more balanced panel next time because the people on stage so to speak, all represent factions of the 1% and wall street no matter how much they try to lamely disavow their connections.

        • January 22, 2012 at 10:38 am

          GM UT….

          what time does he show come on…

          have you read his interview with the President…..

          • 127 utaustinliberal
            January 22, 2012 at 11:19 am

            His show comes on at 10AM ET and re-airs at 1PM ET.

            His interview with PBO was good. His show is good but his panel today was just full of crock.

            • 128 jacquelineoboomer
              January 22, 2012 at 1:37 pm

              Sometimes I think he interviews “the others” just to let them cough up their ridiculous ideas in front of his viewership. I always check his lineup before watching, because he does this every now and then. I find no reason for it, but Fareed must. At the very least, he’s one of the few I can give any benefit of the doubt to — he’s otherwise fair to PBO. But, I’m with you, it’s some hidden agenda we’re not privy to, that’s for sure.

        • 129 criquet
          January 22, 2012 at 11:14 am

          Please let us know if he responds because he is a pretty bright person and his reasons could be interesting. Good job as usual UT.

      • 130 anniebella
        January 22, 2012 at 1:12 pm

        criquet, yes indeed send him a email and let him know how you feel.

    • January 22, 2012 at 11:43 am

      GEEZE. Sorry to hear this. So what was the point of that mess?

    • 132 smoothscotch
      January 22, 2012 at 2:06 pm

      Glad I’m not the only who was disappointed today but I kept it to myself until now.

  24. 136 Dudette
    January 22, 2012 at 10:26 am

    Just saw a promo for Jill Biden coming up Monday night on Pier Morgan. She’ll be talking about military families.

  25. 138 Dudette
    January 22, 2012 at 10:35 am

    CNN announcing Joe Paterno has died.

  26. 139 Ladyhawke
    January 22, 2012 at 10:39 am

    FRANK SCHAEFFER DECONSTRUCTS NEWT GINGRICH

    Newt Gingrich the Republicans and the Loony Religious Fringe

    ===============

    Conclusion

    It was the Reconstructionists who, along with several less extreme activists like my father, created the climate in which the likes of Gingrich-as-Far-Right-Roman-Catholic-convert, George, Colson, and Beck have been taken seriously by many Evangelicals. Without the work of the Reconstructionists, the next generation of religious activists (trying to use the courts, politics, and/or civil disobedience to impose their narrow theology on the majority of Americans) would have been relegated to some lonely street corner where they could gather to howl at the moon. Instead, the twenty-first century’s theocrats (though they’d never so identify themselves) enjoyed the backing of Fox News, were tolerated at places like Princeton University, and could be found running most Evangelical organizations.

    George’s, North’s, and Gingrich’s idea of the “rule of law” is that it must be subject to a biblical mandate, in other words to what Gingrich’s bishops tell him will “sell” to their faithful and their evangelical fellow-traveler religious extremists. This is the constituency that Gingrich is now appealing to, with the direct help from his Roman Catholic advisers and his Reconstructionist and Dominionist friends. And then there is the cherry on the cake: in return for espousing their theocratic anti-democracy views Gingrich will be forgiven his multitude of divorces and a lifetime of adultery.

    ===============

    http://frank-schaeffer.blogspot.com/2011/12/newt-gingrich-republicans-and-loony.html

  27. 145 isonprize
    January 22, 2012 at 10:41 am

    Comment on Washington Monthly’s Steve Benen Political Animal blog sums up South Carolina

    Political Animal
    Blog
    January 22, 2012 8:50 AM — How Gingrich won S.C.

    http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/political-animal/2012_01/how_gingrich_won_sc034909.php#

    MuddyLee on January 22, 2012 9:40 AM:

    Romney: Mormon, Massachusetts Moderate,Money in the Cayman Islands, Mexican roots, Massive layoffs caused by Bain, Mitt speaks French – all of these can work against you in South Carolina. The state is racist, homophobic, confederate flag flying and civil war worshipping, ostensibly Christian but overwhelmingly SOUTHERN Baptist in its approach to religion, anti-education (if education means exposure to new ideas but not if it means technical training for non-union workers). Think Mississippi and Alabama without any good music. People sometimes make a big deal about the “non-white” Sikh heritage governor Nikki Haley – she was endorsed by Sarah Palin, goes to a Methodist church, and checks the “white” box on her Census form.

  28. January 22, 2012 at 10:43 am

    This is an Obama oasis in the midst of a Repuglican sand storm. Anyone need fresh air?

  29. 148 Ladyhawke
    January 22, 2012 at 10:46 am

    WHO ARE YOU CALLING ALOOF???

    I just love this response from President Obama to Fareed Zakaria about the fact that “some” people call him cool and aloof.

    Inside Obama’s World: The President talks to TIME About the Changing Nature of American Power

    ==================

    You just can’t do it with John Boehner.
    You know, the truth is, actually, when it comes to Congress, the issue is not personal relationships. My suspicion is that this whole critique has to do with the fact that I don’t go to a lot of Washington parties. And as a consequence, the Washington press corps maybe just doesn’t feel like I’m in the mix enough with them, and they figure, well, if I’m not spending time with them, I must be cold and aloof.

    The fact is, I’ve got a 13-year-old and 10-year-old daughter, and so, no, Michelle and I don’t do the social scene, because as busy as we are, we have a limited amount of time, and we want to be good parents at a time that’s vitally important for our kids.

    In terms of Congress, the reason we’re not getting enough done right now is you’ve got a Congress that is deeply ideological and sees a political advantage in not getting stuff done. John Boehner and I get along fine. We had a great time playing golf together. That’s not the issue. The problem was that no matter how much golf we played or no matter how much we yukked it up, he had trouble getting his caucus to go along with doing the responsible thing on a whole bunch of issues over the past year.

    ==================

    http://swampland.time.com/2012/01/19/inside-obamas-world-the-president-talks-to-time-about-the-changing-nature-of-american-power/

    • 149 africa
      January 22, 2012 at 11:24 am

      Excellent. This family is grounded and don’t need to be validated by these self-inflated egotists.

    • 150 Dudette
      January 22, 2012 at 12:12 pm

      Role Model in Chief

    • 152 TrumpDog
      January 22, 2012 at 12:49 pm

      My suspicion is that this whole critique has to do with the fact that I don’t go to a lot of Washington parties. And as a consequence, the Washington press corps maybe just doesn’t feel like I’m in the mix enough with them, and they figure, well, if I’m not spending time with them, I must be cold and aloof.

      Excellent reply from our president. And he is so spot on.

      I suspected it’s the MEDIA that has a problem and are projecting their feelings onto Obama. The idea that our president can’t connect is bullshit. I think it’s a big reason he was elected; because he connected to many of us on a different level.

      As usual, the media gets it wrong. THEY are the one’s out of touch. And I don’t blame Obama one bit for not wanting to rub elbows with these fair weather turncoats.

      • January 22, 2012 at 1:26 pm

        One of the many things that I love about POB is the fact that he is not only a brilliant leader, he is a very dedicated husband and father. He does his job for the people, but he also realize that his greater job in the very end will be how his two beautiful daughters will see him as a father to them and as a husband to their mother. The Presidecncy will come in line where it should be for them.

        It eats the media up because he chooses to be that beautiful father who is making sure he is there for them, with them ,and around them constantly giving them the nourishment that they need as his daughters. Those are the moments that will shape their lives as ladies all over the world. The history books will give them the facts about his presidency, but no book can give his daughters what POB is and will continue to give them.

        Hell no, forget about the media calling him aloof and not connecting. We all know that is a lie. He connected with all of us in 2008, and he will continue to connect again. But the real connection should and always be with those two beautiful young ladies. No one, has the right to get in the way of that great responsibility, and I do not think he will ever allow them to do so. Forget the social parties, they can come to the White House. They know where he lives. In fact he has made it a point to invite them many many times, as I recall.

        You stay true to your core, Mr. President.HZ

      • 154 Ladyhawke
        January 22, 2012 at 1:36 pm

        “GASBAG OVERLOAD”

        =============================

        I am sufering from a serious case of gasbag overload. The press corps should be focusing on doing their job of reporting the facts to the American people instead of worrying about how much socializing President Obama does with them. That is exactly the problem. It’s all about them. The gasbags are more concerned about their celebrity than doing their job. Basic journalistic integrity has gone by the wayside. The American people deserve better.

        1. Journalism’s first obligation is to the truth

        Democracy depends on citizens having reliable, accurate facts put in a meaningful context. Journalism does not pursue truth in an absolute or philosophical sense, but it can–and must–pursue it in a practical sense. This “journalistic truth” is a process that begins with the professional discipline of assembling and verifying facts. Then journalists try to convey a fair and reliable account of their meaning, valid for now, subject to further investigation. Journalists should be as transparent as possible about sources and methods so audiences can make their own assessment of the information. Even in a world of expanding voices, accuracy is the foundation upon which everything else is built–context, interpretation, comment, criticism, analysis and debate. The truth, over time, emerges from this forum. As citizens encounter an ever greater flow of data, they have more need–not less–for identifiable sources dedicated to verifying that information and putting it in context.

        http://www.journalism.org/resources/principles

      • 155 Obama Grandmama
        January 22, 2012 at 3:11 pm

        Wouldn’t this reply work against the insider in Washington theme? He is obviously not an insider if he doesn’t go out for drinks with them in his spare time.

    • January 22, 2012 at 1:11 pm

      And John Boehner has only himself to blame.

    • 157 anniebella
      January 22, 2012 at 5:19 pm

      When the President talk of spending time with his 13 and 10 year old, instead of going out partying, it is just another reason I support this President so much.

  30. January 22, 2012 at 10:47 am

    While people like Chris Matthews break their necks to tell us how brilliant Newt was and a panel on Chris Hayes show declared Newt a populist responding to the public anger, the New York looks into the numbers and find that those who voted for Newt were drawn to his racist message. Maybe now some in MSM can be freed up to tell the truth or not.

    http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/22/opinion/sunday/south-carolinas-divisive-message.html?_r=1&src=tp

    • January 22, 2012 at 11:05 am

      I love your post but I’m afraid this nation will never hear the MSM call our a Republican as racist. Just not going to happen. But we’re not stupid. Anyone with a clear mind, an open heart and good hearing knows what’s happening.

    • 161 Lovepolitics2008
      January 22, 2012 at 2:29 pm

      The pundit class in Washington are so glued to the horse race aspect of elections they don’t see the danger in Newt’s demagoguery. It will take a lot more ugliness before they finally wake up.

  31. 162 L3
    January 22, 2012 at 10:49 am

    Hey Chips, PBO’s video singing Al Green’s Let’s Stay Together is now over 3,000,000 views.

    • 163 itgurl_29
      January 22, 2012 at 10:51 am

      Wooooow!!!! First viral video of 2012 campaign and it’s from Chips! Amazing.

    • 164 hopefruit2
      January 22, 2012 at 10:55 am

      That alone is getting FAR more attention than all the desperate attention whores on MSNBC, CNN etc bashing the President.

      • 165 itgurl_29
        January 22, 2012 at 11:11 am

        Yes, indeed. More people have watched and enjoyed that wonderful video than have watched Meet the Press!

        • 166 isonprize
          January 22, 2012 at 11:43 am

          It-gurl, not so sure about that. At least a million of those hits are from TOD!! 😆 😆 😆

          • 167 hopefruit2
            January 22, 2012 at 11:49 am

            There is also another “Obama-Al Green” video from AP with about 1 million hits. So it’s not just TOD. And the song is now #53 on the itunes download charts. It was up to #37 yesterday (and #2 on R&B itune downloads). This is a song that was no where on any chart in the last 10 years. I don’t think it’s just TOD folk – trust me! I don’t even own an ipod.

  32. January 22, 2012 at 10:51 am

    If Gingrich wins the nomination, we will be in for a lot of aggravation from now until election day. Like Donald Trump, he is all about empty bombast and coded racism. As annoying and button-pushing as this will be, Gingrich will be resoundly defeated in the fall. The American people in all its diversity will never be so tranparently manipulated as these Southern folks were. I agree totally with Andrew Sullivan when he wrote last night that the crushing defeat of Gingrich and his dark impulses that he represents will wake up the Republican party and get it back on track again. Our patience will be tested in the coming months but there is nothing but good news at the end of this journey.

    • 169 hopefruit2
      January 22, 2012 at 10:58 am

      The GOP establishment will see to it that Gingrich doesn’t get the nomination. Gingrich is trailing PBO by double digits in most states and even in places like Texas PBO is leading by a few points. So there’s no way he will be the nomimee. However, the media is using him right now to take the focus off Mitt Romney in order to make Romney seem more sane & reasonable, and to get people off the issue of his tax returns. I noticed that the Obama camp is not falling for that trick and are keeping the focus squarely on Mitt Romney where it belongs.

      • January 22, 2012 at 11:04 am

        If Mittens gets the nomination and loses the election, the tea party base will continue to feel that it’s because he wasn’t conservative enough. As revolting as the thought of listening to Gingrich blabbering ad nauseum until election day, it might be good for the torch-carrying villagers to get what they want and have their asses handed to them.

    • 171 halo
      January 22, 2012 at 11:31 am

      If you watched MTP today, you’ll see the media and the GOP are desperate for Mitt. They’re trying to kneecap Newt, say winning SC doesn’t matter, and taking the Romnye line that he is crazy. The media knows they have to do Romney’s job for him.

  33. January 22, 2012 at 11:09 am

    The idiot RW is desperate to label PBO an appeaser, but it just doesn’t wash. Today’s victory:

    After threats, Iran plays down U.S. naval moves

    TEHRAN (Reuters) – Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Saturday it considered the likely return of U.S. warships to the Gulf part of routine activity, backing away from previous warnings to Washington not to re-enter the area.
    The statement may be seen as an effort to reduce tensions after Washington said it would respond if Iran made good on a threat to block the Strait of Hormuz – the vital shipping lane for oil exports from the Gulf.

    http://news.yahoo.com/iran-says-u-presence-gulf-not-issue-092321057.html

  34. 175 Linda
    January 22, 2012 at 11:09 am

    The count this week for just the main guests on the top 5 is…

    Republican­s 7

    Democrats 1

    The count including round table guests for ALL Sunday Shows

    Republican­s 23

    Democrats 7

    Liberal Media Bias ???

  35. 178 Dudette
    January 22, 2012 at 11:12 am

    Jill Biden writes children’s book, a tribute to troops
    http://www.rgj.com/article/20120122/LIV03/201220304/Jill-Biden-writes-children-s-book-tribute-troops?odyssey=mod_sectionstories

    Here are a couple of snips from the two-page article:

    “Jill Biden, after years of teaching English to college and high school students, has written a book of her own.

    The wife of Vice President Joe Biden has completed a children’s story, “Don’t Forget, Nana, God Bless Our Troops,” told from the point of view of granddaughter Natalie Biden and a tribute to soldiers and their families. Biden, called Nana by her granddaughter, has met with many military families and said she thought of doing the book as she realized how many people did not understand their experiences. The story is especially personal because son Beau Biden, Delaware’s attorney general and a major in the state’s Army National Guard, spent a year in Iraq.

    “I really feel that you write your best about what you know best,” Jill Biden, who taught in Delaware before moving to Washington, said Tuesday, two days before her visit to Reno. “That’s what I teach to my students, so I thought using my own experience would have a little more meaning and a little more heart to it.”

    The book will be published June 5 by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers and will be illustrated by Raul Colon, who has worked on stories by Frank McCourt and Libba Moore Gray…”

    ——-

    “…Biden is receiving no advance. She and the publisher said all net author proceeds are being donated to charities, to be determined, for military families”

  36. January 22, 2012 at 11:17 am

    Morning TOD hope everyone is well. I’ve been so busy between work and OFA I haven’t hardly had time to even lurk here. But I did blurb a short post yesterday saying that I was having a house party and I noticed that a couple of people asked me how it went and what I had so I thought I’d give you the run down and tell you how it went.

    So I posted an event at http://www.barackobama.com – I was working with someone at the OFA campaign office because we are trying to get a team started in my area. But, it was very easy – then about the last week we did some extra calling in my area to invite ppl. It was only from noon to 2pm and the field director for my area came to my house to do a presentation on the neighborhood team model and how that works. ppl put in their suggestions and that’s how they became more invested in what was happening in our area. then afterwards the field director sent me a run down of what happened at our meeting, and what we said we were going to do and I followed up by sending out an email with those details. I shared out a calendar so ppl could see what days we were doing what.

    Food: someone asked about that. It was very simple. Here in Minnesota it’s winter so I had a party coffee pot for hot water to make cocoa and tea, I made a pot of coffee and baked some brownies and some cookies. had some fruit, nuts and chips with salsa – a couple of ppl brought something which was nice.

    and that was about it. I had a couple of ppl call me back later who were really excited and energized and that was great, and a couple of ppl got reconnected with teams that are closer to where they actually live but it was nice to meet them anyway.

    There is a big push to create SOTU watching parties and that is a good way to get ppl in your area to come to your house (or your neighborhood pub or community meeting room) and that way you can get ppl to start talking about becoming a team because they are already in your area.

    OK enough of me talking. I gotta go look at all this stuff about Newt and how the heck he won SC. The whole Clown Car Crazies just took an interesting turn into Huh?ville.

    Hope that encourages some of you who were thinking of doing something like this. it was easy and I will say that I had help from my OFA campaign office.

    • 180 kittypat
      January 22, 2012 at 12:32 pm

      good luck with building your new team a4alice, our team is still together after a house party over a year ago.

    • January 22, 2012 at 12:49 pm

      a4alice I loved reading your post! I hope the SOTU house party is a hit too!! Thanks for sharing 🙂

      • January 22, 2012 at 1:08 pm

        Me too NZ I think it is a great way to introduce ppl to the idea of being involved. who doesn’t like to go to a party? and that is encouraging news kittypat! I’ve been noticing that there are teams here too that have stayed together for a long time even since 2008. so that’s organization of ya.

    • January 22, 2012 at 6:54 pm

      Alice

      Thanks so much for sharing this. We are all inspired and cheered by your post.

      I hope everyone who is thinking of getting involved in OFA will jump in. It isn’t as hard or as scary as you imagine. Once you do it you will be so glad you did. The folks are the best and it really help me deal with stress. When you work with OFA you feel like you are making a real difference.

  37. 184 Dudette
    January 22, 2012 at 11:28 am

    Rep John Mica (R-FL) on Alex Witt is testing out the new Repub soundbite reaction to PBO’s Al Green moment “We’re not electing American Idol. We already did that now we need a real leader” Even repeated it with a little twist.. “Well he can sing, maybe even dance…but the people elected based on popularity, now they have buyers remorse.”

    • 185 hopefruit2
      January 22, 2012 at 11:38 am

      Ha! The same Republican soundbite just a few months ago was that “he can’t connect with Americans”

      He can’t connect with Americans, but he’s an American Idol.

      Um…these two things cannot be true at the same time. Which is it?

      HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! I say this to John Mica: go stuff your pasty jealous arse back in your ignorant cave.

    • 186 Vicky
      January 22, 2012 at 11:42 am

      Ah, utilizing the old minstrel image, I see………..

      • 187 Dudette
        January 22, 2012 at 11:55 am

        That hit me in the face as soon as it came out of his mouth, V.

      • January 22, 2012 at 12:01 pm

        This is so over-the-top, I can’t even scream.

        • 189 jacquelineoboomer
          January 22, 2012 at 2:29 pm

          Ohmygod, meta, you nailed it.

          I’ve actually been in a closed-door meeting with John Mica in Florida – related to my job before I retired – and he’s even more fake and pasty looking in person. He’s like Newt Gingrich in a slimmer suit. Actually, I found him uglier than Newt, if that’s possible. Mica thinks a whole lot of himself, totally unearned.

          Is there no one Republican who is actually “real,” anymore?

    • 190 Ladyhawke
      January 22, 2012 at 11:48 am

      I wonder what Rep John Mica thought about Mitt “You’re Just Jealous” Romney singing happy birthday to Nikki Haley. And if you want to talk about real buyers remorse check this out:

      http://www.republicanjobcreation.com/

    • January 22, 2012 at 11:52 am

      That is Pretty condescending! What’s next, comparing this President to Al Joleson?
      This is subjective racism, and it stinks.

      That is all!

  38. 193 Ladyhawke
    January 22, 2012 at 11:38 am

    BY ALL MEANS, LET’S PUT RACE BASED POLITICS ON TRIAL

    The mainstream media continues to tip toe around the real reason why Newt Gingrich won so handily in South Carolina. We all know he appealed to the worst of race based politics. There were dog whistles and straight up bigotry offered as red meat to the haters in SC. Newt exemplifies the birthers, baggers and blowhards that have poisoned politics in this country. It is long past due for the GOP voter disenfranchisement and race baiting to go on trial.

    Democrats Thank South Carolina For Giving Them A Shot At Newt Gingrich

    ===============

    If Mitt Romney can’t convince Republicans that he can beat Obama then it a virtual certainty that he won’t be able to convince America that he can beat Obama.

    After his endless race baiting, Democrats would love a shot at Newt Gingrich. South Carolina gave Democrats the best gift that they could have ever gotten. Democrats, Independents, Republicans, and non-racists of all stripes would love to see Gingrich have to stand on stage, look Barack Obama in the eye, and call him the food stamp president.

    If Gingrich is the Republican nominee the race based politics that the Republicans have been practicing for four years will be on trial. For Democrats a Gingrich nomination isn’t just about reelecting Obama, it is a chance to speak out against the strategy of trying to win elections through racial division.

    ===================

    http://www.politicususa.com/en/newt-gingrich-south-carolina

  39. 194 hopefruit2
    January 22, 2012 at 11:52 am

    Hey Willard, what about the “Internet?” Please do tell!

    • 195 utaustinliberal
      January 22, 2012 at 2:00 pm

      Seriously? Does this fool think before he speaks? What…the boogeyman on the internet is gonna get his tax returns and eat it for breakfast?

  40. 196 MeaBloom
    January 22, 2012 at 11:54 am

    The should hound Romney about his tax returns the way the hounded PBO about his freaking birth certificate. RATS!! He(Romney) is just so EWW to me. UGH! I won’t even start on Newt. That scum is not even worthy. With these two ahead I can only wonder where the minds of some Americans have wondered off to. If this is what they think is presidental I’m afraid.

    • 197 Pamela
      January 22, 2012 at 12:33 pm

      Well, c’,mon you guys, it’s because he doesn’t OWN the Internet yet, but he’s still trying.. Then we shall see who is in charge of the ” real world”. Scumbag.

  41. January 22, 2012 at 11:57 am

    Early voting in Florida-

    As Republican presidential hopefuls made their final frenzied push in South Carolina on Saturday, early voting began across much of Tampa Bay and Florida at a much slower pace.

    It was anything but frenzied.

    Seven people were waiting for voting to begin Saturday morning at Pinellas County’s three early voting sites. By the time the polls closed at 4 p.m., only 138 people had cast ballots.

    “It’s very slow,” said Nancy Whitlock, spokeswoman for the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections office.

    But the county has received more than 39,000 mail-in ballots so “we really have 13.8 percent turnout,” Whitlock said.

    http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/local/slow-start-to-early-voting-in-tampa-bay-area/1211767

  42. January 22, 2012 at 11:57 am

  43. 200 Dudette
    January 22, 2012 at 12:00 pm

    John Heilemann Betrays Media’s Real Interest
    By Nicole Belle
    see video referenced here from MSNBC coverage of SC Primary last night with Tweety:
    http://crooksandliars.com/nicole-belle/john-heilemann-betrays-medias-real-in

    “I think it’s a sign of how cynical I’ve become watching these 24 hour cable news networks that I saw this live and it didn’t strike me as odd at all. It wasn’t until John Cole at Balloon Juice called my attention to it that I realized how incredibly telling this whole exchange was.


    Starting at about 1:50, when Heilman stated “Gingrich is going to get so much free media attention in the next few days, it is going to be wall to wall Gingrich, and I think it is fair to say, that the “liberal media,” as Gingrich would put it, is rooting for Gingrich right now. They want this ra.. they/we, want this race to go on, so he is gonna have, he is gonna get more attention and in some ways more favorable coverage, at least for the next couple days than he would ordinarily from people who would give him tougher scrutiny…”


    “It’s right [..]there in front of you. They are telling you their priority. It isn’t to inform or deal with facts- it is horse race and page hits.

    “You add this shamefulness to the concern trolling of Chuck Todd that Stephen Colbert is making a mockery of our electoral process and the NY Times actually wondering if fact-checking is part of their responsibility as journalists and you have a pretty insurmountable pile of evidence that the media is no longer the fourth estate designed to keep the government honest, but yet another obstacle in keeping Americans informed and democracy healthy…”

    • 201 Ladyhawke
      January 22, 2012 at 12:10 pm

      thanks so much for posting this Dudette. I was watching John Hoilman when he made that statement and I was shocked. It was sad and pathetic moment. The comment just rolled off his tongue so effortlessly. It was incredibly cynical and revealing. In addition to putting the politics of racial division on trial, the mainstream media needs to go on trial. They have failed us miserably.

    • 203 jacquelineoboomer
      January 22, 2012 at 12:18 pm

      I heard that “we” in the liberal media comment from John Heilemann – of course, he’s only hiding behind the “liberal” tag – he’s anything but liberal. Chuck Todd is a laughingstock of journalism, among many.

  44. 207 Dudette
    January 22, 2012 at 12:06 pm

    It is CRIMINAL how little scrutiny the integrity of thevote counting process receives. I hope somebody wakes up and does something before its too late (if it’s not already)

    ============================================
    From The Brad Blog
    http://www.bradblog.com/?p=9080#more-9080
    Not Newt: As Long As We’re Guessing How Voters Voted in SC Instead of Counting, Ya Know, Votes…

    At the precise moment the polls closed across South Carolina tonight, with zero votes tallied by the 100% unverifiable e-voting systems the state forces voters to use on Election Day, all the news nets, save for CNN (which, in a short-lived moment of being responsible, thought it inappropriate to call the race with only 2 precincts actually reporting, so they waited until 3% were in before calling it), announced that Newt Gingrich was the “winner” of the all-important “First-in-the-South” 2012 Republican Primary.

    Steven J. Dorst, however, posted the following shocking statement said to be from the South Carolina Election Commission disputing the news network’s reported results which are based completely on the same Exit Polls they told us could not be relied upon after the Presidential Election in 2004 and the NH Primary Election in 2008…

  45. 208 desertflower
    January 22, 2012 at 12:10 pm

    POLL: MAJORITY SAY U.S. NEEDS NEW CAMPAIGN FINANCE LAWS | On the heels of yesterday’s two-year anniversary of the Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision, a new Rasmussen poll finds that 58 percent of Americans say the U.S needs new campaign finance laws — a change from three years ago when more people said it would be “good” if the Supreme Court struck down existing campaign finance laws.

    from TP

  46. 210 criquet
    January 22, 2012 at 12:10 pm

    Glad to get your reply Chips, much appreciated.

    I am not able to post often due to my work schedule but I check this site veeeery often everyday and enjoy the wide-ranging videos, pictures and information provided by you and the rest of the TOD members.
    Thanks for everything you do and the great work of the TOD family , congratulations on the big 7 and we are pressing on.

  47. January 22, 2012 at 12:15 pm

    yikes. i just listened to newt’s win speech for sc. feel like i gotta go take a shower. bleh.

  48. 214 Britt
    January 22, 2012 at 12:15 pm

    Mitt’s going to release one year of tax returns, should not put his tax issue to bed. Especially since he has turned a small issue into a big one in regards to his taxes.

  49. 215 desertflower
    January 22, 2012 at 12:16 pm

    quote of the day: “It’s nothing but a political banner to cover up greed.” (Michigan Governor George Romney, on “rugged individualism,” 1966.)

    Mittens should have listened to his father a little more….

    • 216 jacquelineoboomer
      January 22, 2012 at 12:19 pm

      One gets the idea Mitt is running AGAINST his father, who was very much admired when he was in politics.

      • 217 Dudette
        January 22, 2012 at 12:26 pm

        Mitt has been running for President for so long, even though no one wants him, just to work out some Daddy issues!

  50. 218 Dudette
    January 22, 2012 at 12:34 pm

    Wow, this almost slipped by me!
    Roe V. Wade 39TH Anniversary | January 22, 1973…
    http://3chicspolitico.com/2012/01/22/roe-v-wade-39th-anniversary-january-22-1973/

  51. 220 Ladyhawke
    January 22, 2012 at 12:34 pm

    The South Carolina Primary Result You Expected:
    Everybody Hates Mitt Romney + Nobody Doesn’t

    By Charles P. Pierce

    ======================================

    There is none of that watchability with Willard. There is something about the man that doesn’t connect. (He doesn’t even really seem to connect well with all the money he has. First, he tries not to talk about it, and then it’s the embodiment of the American Dream. Pick an anthropomorphism and stick with it, man!) Watching his support dwindle down here over the last four days was like watching an earthen dam give way. One crack, then two, then the whole side collapses and people are running for the freaking hills. There was never any sign of a contingency plan that might be in place for this eventuality. (The Romney people never figured that Newt Gingrich could give them a run in South Carolina? Were they all high in the 1990’s?) There was never any personal affection or identification that he could have relied on as even a temporary stopgap measure. Willard stopped being electable because there stopped being the faintest reason to vote for him. If you wanted stubborn independence, you had Ron Paul. If you wanted sanctimony, fetuses, and paranoia about Iran, Rick Santorum was your boy. If your biggest thrill in life is to hock a loogie at all of your fellow Americans whom you despise, well, Newt Gingrich always has been there for you, and he’s better than you are at it. What was left for poor Willard Romney, erstwhile frontrunner?

    Electability?

    That’s a self-refuting proposition now.

    ===================================

    http://www.esquire.com/blogs/politics/mitt-romney-south-carolina-primary-results-6642630?click=pp

  52. 221 collegekay
    January 22, 2012 at 12:44 pm

    When will we get some poll numbers from Florida? I hope tomorrow.

  53. 222 Ceb
    January 22, 2012 at 12:44 pm

    Good Day, everyone!

    Lovely, spring-like day in NE Florida. Been swamped with end of the semester drama and work, but was able to lurk here a bit. Thanks for all of the updates.

    My students and I will watch, read,discuss and study the SOTU for content and structure. I do this every year no matter who is president. The students, whether they were 10 graders or 12th graders, always understood more than many adults. BTW, they also know and understand the functions of the three branches of the government, unlike many politicians, pundits, and others who should know better.

    • 223 Dudette
      January 22, 2012 at 12:49 pm

      We need more teachers like you Ceb – thousands more. Keep up the great work!

    • 225 desertflower
      January 22, 2012 at 1:15 pm

      That’s such great news to hear:) My own son, who is a senior in high school this year, also has the requirement to watch the SOTU and write about it. The very next day, I am allowing him to miss school, so that he can come with me to see PBO speak. His teacher said that he can get extra credit for doing that 🙂 It is so important to educate our children as to how govt. works. So glad that you educate your students in the 3 branches of govt, and how each play a part in our govt. Many thanks.

      • 226 JoJothecat
        January 22, 2012 at 1:23 pm

        You’re a good mom desertflower. You are laying a good foundation for your children to be active and involved because IT IS their future that is at stake on how america goes forward…are we going to let the GOP steal the future or are we going to stick with the long game and the vision of PBO?

        • 227 desertflower
          January 22, 2012 at 1:58 pm

          Thank you so much, JoJo:) That means a lot to me…I try. I have always been passionate about the necessity of citizens to know about and be involved in their govt process. Our children are the future, and it is imperative that they understand the past, and the present…so that we can have a better future. Together. He’s so excited to go see PBO…and my daughter was so disappointed that she won’t be able to go. Has to work. (So do I, but I’m taking a personal day) Will let all of you know how it goes on Wednesday:)

      • January 22, 2012 at 3:01 pm

        i’m so excited for you DF it is really electrifying to hear him in person and what a great experience for your son! 🙂

  54. January 22, 2012 at 12:52 pm

    The Associated Press
    BREAKING: Spokesman says Yemeni President Saleh has departed for Oman, passing powers to his deputy.

  55. 235 Ladyhawke
    January 22, 2012 at 12:52 pm

    WHAT MITT ROMNEY LEARNED FROM HIS DAD

    By Rick Perlstein

    ===========

    It wasn’t that way at first, of course. Four years ago, Romney announced his presidential candidacy — anyone remember? — in front of a state-of-the-art hybrid car. Positioning himself as an ecology president, he boasted about his father – “The Rambler automobile he championed was the first American car designed and marketed for economy and mileage” – and pointed to the car next beside him as “the first giant step away from our reliance on the gasoline engine.”

    Now, of course, he’s a global warming denier. Little Willard is all grown up now. He’s his own man. And he’s the the likely Republican nominee. Which now means he’s Wall Street’s man. And Focus on the Family’s, and the Tea Party’s, and Grover Norquist’s too.

    ===========

    http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/blogs/national-affairs/what-mitt-romney-learned-from-his-dad-20120117

  56. January 22, 2012 at 12:54 pm

    Some great analysis from Booman Tribune. Ya’ll should def check them out:

    This is Not Excellent News for Romney

    …all in all, I believe Gingrich’s win in South Carolina is very bad news for Mitt Romney and for the Republican Party. You can try to make some lemonade out of it, and there could be some benefits, but the net result is unlikely to be anything less than disastrous.

  57. 237 desertflower
    January 22, 2012 at 12:57 pm

    Worth the read http://www.gq.com/news-politics/blogs/death-race/2012/01/why-conservatives-love-calling-obama-stupid.html

    Quick quiz. Which of these people do you think represents the GOP’s most idealized candidate in terms of the party’s myth of American private sector self-invention? Is it a man who’s been campaigning for four years already and whose wealthy father was also a governor? A millionaire lobbyist with fundraising ethics violations, serial adultery problems and a 30-year record of making money as a government insider? Or a man from a broken home and modest means who overcame numerous boundaries and prejudices, became the president of the Harvard Law Review, worked in low-income neighborhoods and eventually joined a respected law firm?

    Obama confounds the GOP narrative, because he’s a self-made millionaire who somehow doesn’t think the GOP is the solution. He defies the essential Republican tautology that all Republicans are people with his wealth and record, and all people with his wealth and record are Republicans. Meanwhile, his presence in the election implicitly shames Romney’s state-hopping privileged opportunism and Gingrich’s engorged government parasitism.

    There’s more where this came from…

      • 239 desertflower
        January 22, 2012 at 2:02 pm

        Thanks:) Personally, I think when they say things like that, it is simply projecting their own inadequacies. Or their wish that the populace will follow them down the easy road without any back up for their narrative….the dumbing down of America continues.

    • January 22, 2012 at 1:38 pm

      I recall seeing lots of “Obama is Dumb” rhetoric from the left too. Told off quite a few people in comment threads over this in his first couple of years. I don’t see it much anymore but that could be because I don’t visit those left wing blogs anymore.

    • 241 57andFemale
      January 22, 2012 at 2:11 pm

      Excellent analysis.

  58. January 22, 2012 at 1:04 pm

    Happy Sunday everyone. I’m so stoked because I know have Pres Obama’s sultry tones on my iPhone. Woot. We have a big voter registration event at a church later today. Think all I have to say is South Carolina and people ought to rush to register.

    Sorry to be late with this, but congrats Chips for passing 7 million hits! You are the bomb, girl.

  59. 243 Ladyhawke
    January 22, 2012 at 1:04 pm

    Things I Learned From South Carolina

    By Norbrook

    First, playing the racism card is a vote-getter.

    Second, any claim the Republicans had to being the “family values” party was shown to be a lie.

    http://cendax.wordpress.com/2012/01/21/things-i-learned-from-south-carolina/

    • 244 Obama Grandmama
      January 22, 2012 at 3:43 pm

      I recall an art workshop I went to during the ’08 GE campaign. At the time I had painted a portrait of Sen Barack Obama and had turned it into a postcard. I was involved in the Post Cards for American OFA campaign. Besides handwriting 700 postcards on why I supported Barack Obama for President I carried many postcards in my purse to give to people I met at art workshops, in restaurants, etc. I gave one to my art instructor and she was very sure he would not win even though he would be a good candidate and was going to vote for him herself. The reason she said is she came from SC and all of her relatives would never vote for him. It’s a different world down there she said to me. She was wrong and she was right too. I see that from Newt winning. The time I spent a week in SC traveling and sightseeing I did not see this but you have to look in the closets to see the skeletons.

  60. 245 donna dem 4 obama
    January 22, 2012 at 1:06 pm

    Happy Sunday TOD!

    Congrats Chips for the 3Million+ views on youtube

    Lets Stay Together 2012

  61. 248 Dudette
    January 22, 2012 at 1:18 pm

    A little late since it’s from Friday morning (apologies if someone already posted), but Stephen Colbert cracks me UP!

    Appearing on MSNBC’s Morning Joe, comedian Stephen Colbert made a joke about Ron Paul that nearly stopped the show dead in its tracks.

    http://www.nationalconfidential.com/20120120/video-stephen-colberts-ron-paul-joke-rocks-morning-joe/

    🙂 🙂 🙂

  62. January 22, 2012 at 1:19 pm

    On this statement by Gingrich, I agree-

    ABC is an arm of the Romney Campaign!

    True or false?

    • 250 Britt
      January 22, 2012 at 1:28 pm

      True, and most of the media is in the can for Mitt. I am shocked that Newt or his people called ABC out on it.

      • 251 Dudette
        January 22, 2012 at 1:32 pm

        He’s got nothing to lose. Phasers are no longer on stun, he’s going for the kill. That’s his style. Always has been.

      • 252 anniebella
        January 22, 2012 at 1:57 pm

        You guys maybe telling the truth about the media and it’s love for Mitt, but Newt ain’t worth sh*t his self. He’s a racist bastard.

  63. January 22, 2012 at 1:25 pm

    G’Day TODville, loving aqll of your comments.

    I also watched Fareed’s program this morning and must agree with UTAustin and others that the panel was atrocious.

    I was reminded why I stopped watching the Sunday news programs when The Queen of Botox, Miss Huff opened her mouth. I responded by calling her a not too pleasant name and turning the channel.

  64. January 22, 2012 at 1:26 pm

    House Speaker John Boehner has already given his review of President Barack Obama’s forthcoming State of the Union address — and it’s not pretty.

    “I’ve read a lot about what the president is going to talk about Tuesday night, and it sounds to me like the same old policies that we’ve seen: More spending, higher taxes, more regulation,” Boehner said on “Fox News Sunday.”

    “If that’s what the president is going to talk about Tuesday night, I think that’s pathetic.”

    Obama reportedly is also going to call for a grand bargain-type agreement to cut the deficit, but Boehner said he tried that with the president, who wouldn’t accept a deal with “fundamental reform of our entitlement programs” and wanted $1 trillion in new taxes.

    In other words, let’s just favor the rich!

    • 257 Pamela
      January 22, 2012 at 1:44 pm

      And who knows pathetic better than history’s very own worst ever SOTH, poor poor John-boy-boner. Mad that he had to work three days this week!

    • 258 FiredUpInCA
      January 22, 2012 at 1:56 pm

      I liked it better when they were in recess. Then it was just the President and us watching the Cirque de SoLame pretending to run for President. Now that Boehner and the Baggers are back, that means we have to hear their whining which wakes up Mitch McChinless and then he chimes in. As I said, I liked it better when they were in recess.

    • 260 57andFemale
      January 22, 2012 at 2:12 pm

      Didn’t Obama win this argument already? Was Boehner at the tanning salon when that happened?

    • 261 anniebella
      January 22, 2012 at 5:00 pm

      Jovie we have to remember John Boehner is speaker in name only. Cantor and the Tea Party is the boos, Boehner is a empty head and suit. And hopefully when we give the House back to the Dems, he will be out of a job.

  65. January 22, 2012 at 1:30 pm

    Good football games today!

    Ya think?

  66. 263 Dudette
    January 22, 2012 at 1:30 pm

    PBO’s State of the Union Preview

    [Sorry if I missed an earlier post of this]

  67. January 22, 2012 at 1:40 pm

    I Got Your Panic, Right Here
    by BooMan

    If you are looking for open signs of panic among the Republican Establishment, look no further than Jennifer Rubin, who last night penned an open letter to many of the foremost elected officials in the party begging them to intervene to stop Gingrich…

    • 272 Ladyhawke
      January 22, 2012 at 2:13 pm

      The Republican Party was perfectly happy to harness the enthusiasm of the Tea Party for political gain. Now that the tea party tail is wagging the elephant into oblivion they are in a panic. What did they think was going to happen once they turned the party over to unhinged and deranged idealogs who have no clue about what it means to govern? Newt Gingrich is the perfect face of the Republican Party today. The establishment Republicans have no one to blame but themselves for the fix they are in now.

    • 273 Cha
      January 22, 2012 at 6:52 pm

      Thanks for that, lamh. So what does Jennifer Rubin mean by “four more years of strained allies with the Obama Admin”?

  68. 274 Dakota
    January 22, 2012 at 1:45 pm

    Good Morning TOD Family,
    It’s been a challenge keeping up with y’all this weekend, but it’s all good. Maybe before or after your football game of choice today, you might consider going to see Red Tails. The critics don’t like it, but it’s been my experience that whenever a positive movie about African Americans is made, the critics go ballistic in their negativity. George Lukas was shut down at every turn and ended financing the majority of this film. He couldn’t get an distributor and then Fox Films finally agreed to it. Anyway, that’s just my two cents. Go Niners!
    ;;

    • 275 EDP4BHO
      January 22, 2012 at 3:02 pm

      My son went to see it today. I’ll get his take on it when he returns. Isn’t it a shame so many want to keep us down? Makes you wonder what they’re afraid of.

  69. 276 Ladyhawke
    January 22, 2012 at 1:46 pm

    PURE JOY

    ==========

    The expression on the face of the little boy with his arms around President Obama’s waist looks like pure joy to me. So sweet. That is one of my favorite photos. Whippersnappers just love him. He is like the pied piper.

    • 277 Dudette
      January 22, 2012 at 2:03 pm

      I’m telling you there’s something real and physical about that phenomenon.

      Wasn’t there some study out a few years back about sound frequencies that kids can hear, but adults can’t? I’m remember some town that was trying some equipment they would install around town to cut down on late night teenage loitering by emitting some sound only young people could hear. Anybody else remember that?

    • 281 itgurl_29
      January 22, 2012 at 3:01 pm

      I love the look from the kid in the front. He’s like “yeah, I’m hanging with the President. He’s cool. I’m cool. I’m just sayin’.” LOL

  70. 283 anniebella
    January 22, 2012 at 1:54 pm

    Earlier today I watched FLOTUS on ICarly again

  71. January 22, 2012 at 2:01 pm

    Sad news:

    RT @ABC: BREAKING: Rep. Gabrielle Giffords to Step Down from Congress, Staff Says

  72. January 22, 2012 at 2:45 pm

    Gabby Giffords will be attending the SOTU.

    • 309 utaustinliberal
      January 22, 2012 at 3:29 pm

      That’s good news. I’m sad that she isn’t running for re-election but her health must definitely come first. I hope she’ll come back stronger than ever when she’s ready.

  73. 310 Ladyhawke
    January 22, 2012 at 2:49 pm

    A Letter to the Former Speaker of the House

    ======================

    The Tea Party adores you. And why shouldn’t they? You’re made for each other. You’re myopic, insular, rude, obnoxious, a compulsive liar, and your ego could fill the Grand Canyon. You weren’t kidding when you said you were the only Republican candidate who offered the voters a clear distinction with President Obama.

    But really, getting back to John King. You really should send the guy a thank you; perhaps a dozen roses; something for the effort. How many political corpses get a chance to resurrect their campaigns in one night? I know, I know, you probably don’t want to give him all the credit. After all there were those negative ads that you swore you would never run, because, as you said on so many occasions, you wanted to run a positive campaign. Yes, I realize those ads were run by your Super Pac and by law you can’t control what they say – gosh, it’s just like you to be so humble and defer to others – but trust me, this one was on the house.

    =======================

    http://www.addictinginfo.org/2012/01/22/a-letter-to-the-former-speaker-of-the-house/

  74. January 22, 2012 at 2:50 pm

    Romney needs to release his tax returns during his Bain years.

    • 313 Ladyhawke
      January 22, 2012 at 3:06 pm

      That’s exactly what David Cay Johnston said.

      David Cay Johnston

      David Cay Johnston is a Tax Analysts’ columnist. The Washington Monthly calls him “one of the country’s most important journalists” and the Portland Oregonian says his work is the equal of Ida Tarbell, Upton Sinclair and Lincoln Steffens. At The New York Times, Johnston received a 2001 Pulitzer Prize for exposing tax loopholes and inequities. He now teaches the tax, property and regulatory law of the ancient world at Syracuse University College of Law and Whitman School of Management. He is the author of two bestsellers on taxes, Perfectly Legal and Free Lunch. His next book, The Fine Print, will be published in 2011.

      http://www.tax.com/

  75. 316 auni
    January 22, 2012 at 2:53 pm

    edwina said (talking about Newt winning the nomination), “It might be good for the torch carrying villagers to get what they want and have their asses handed to them”. Funny and true–yaaaaaa edwina!

  76. January 22, 2012 at 3:03 pm

    JAIPUR, India—
    Oprah Winfrey says she’s confident that President Barack Obama will win another four-year term in the U.S. presidential election.

    The talk show host addressed a literary festival Sunday in the northwestern Indian town of Jaipur.

    Winfrey praised Obama’s handling of the presidency. She said his next four years would be even more successful, with people able to get back to work. Winfrey backed Obama during the 2008 presidential campaign in her first-ever political endorsement.

    She drew some of the biggest crowds at the annual Jaipur Literary Festival, which brings together top writers, poets and critics and around 50,000 literary fans from around the world. Winfrey has been in India for a week filming programs for her new TV network.

  77. 318 Ladyhawke
    January 22, 2012 at 3:03 pm

    ALL EYES ARE ON BRIAN WILLIAMS (NBC) – NEXT GOP DEBATE 1/23/12

    Maddow: CNN Botched the Question But Newt’s Sex Life is Newsworthy (Hint: Hypocrisy)

    =========================

    The media was eager to score the first five minutes of Thursday’s CNN debate as a win for Newt Gingrich, because he used the opportunity of being asked about his former wife’s interview on ABC to excoriate John King. Certainly, it got him a standing ovation from the audience, but let’s be honest, those jokers actually believe that there *is* a liberal media. But those of us with higher critical thinking skills recognize a fairly desperate deflection, the whole “the best defense is the a strong offense” strategy.

    As Rachel shows, this is an old standby defense for Gingrich, attacking the media. And luckily in John King and CNN, he had a target that isn’t strong or self-possessed enough to retain control of the debate and turn that attack back on him.

    ========================

    http://crooksandliars.com/nicole-belle/rachel-maddow-newts-offense-may-have-

  78. 319 JoJothecat
    January 22, 2012 at 3:04 pm

    WEST COASTERS! ALERT ALERT ALERT! THE ICARLY SHOW WITH THE FIRST LADY IS ON RIGHT NOW!

  79. January 22, 2012 at 3:06 pm

    In my red district in Florida, streets are peppered with mostly Santorum, Romney and some Paul signs. I have yet to see any of Newt’s.

  80. 326 desertflower
    January 22, 2012 at 3:10 pm

    I simply must share this wonderful piece from PoliticalCarnival: http://thepoliticalcarnival.net/2012/01/22/video-raffi-yes-that-raffi-on-respecting-earth-child-im-calling-on-a-culture-of-respect/

    If you do one thing this Sunday afternoon, watch and listen to this man. My children grew up listening to him, (I know ALL his songs by heart now!) but the thoughts and lessons he shares here, are the same ones that PBO is trying so hard to impart. “Earth Friendly= Child Friendly”….Who is working for Green energy advances? Who realizes the uniqueness and special gifts of each child, the the importance of early childhood education and learning? Who wants to get rid of the Dept of Education? Who wants to “drill, baby, drill? Who wants to let the Oil Industry run rampant? Think of all these things when you listen to this amazing man….Raffi. I appreciate him now, as much as I appreciated him then.

    A culture of respect. Who else do we know that has fostered this very idea, in all he does? 🙂 Enjoy. And send off into the Twitterverse.

  81. 327 Dudette
    January 22, 2012 at 3:29 pm

    Two Year Old Knows the Presidents (including our favorite)
    http://comedy.video.yahoo.com/?vid=24692580

    Dagnabit lamh31, what have you done to me?


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