If the game of politics fascinates you-- even on a day when the subject is Glenn Beck-- you must tune in. I did! Don't be surprised as you seek to know more about Beck wanting to reclaim the Civil Rights Movement from politics. You ask-- are you hearing right? Join the crowd!
Well you are! Yes, Glenn Beck has a Dream, but what--in the name or likeness of Dr. King? Will continue searching for an answer as I check them out. Why should Glenn and his followers have all the fun? Had to take in a little..somehow.
Beck, talk host on Fox News Channel has proved he has a plan to get the GOP re-elected in November. And under the title " Restoring Honor" That comes with a dream-- not like the one some of us have, but as of that of a Messiah who spews the unimaginable as he talks: Peace, politics and God. Mixed in also are words/contradictions from his big fat mouth ( as mentioned in article from Huffintonpost) . His descriptions, not mine.
Forty-seven years after the fact, was the time set aside by those who wanted to "Relive the Dream" of Dr. Martin Luther King, and surely Glenn Beck and his Tea party supporters were on hand to provide counterpoint to Restore Honor. But to hijack it?
Many have no problems about his talk about honoring the troops, but the idea-- this was a coming together to talk God and unity, say what? Who believes with Sarah Palin and others on the line up of great 'political' speakers, there would be no talk of politics? Winning in November.
Was it really about uniting Americans? Some saw the Beck's 'assembly' again as hijacking honor of someone -- Dr. King, respected internationally as a man of peace.. and yes--honor.
Of course, Reclaiming the Dream as was the call by Civil Rights Activists-- as in Rev. Al Sharpton. But of course for them 'honor' had a different meaning. Yes, some have a long view of history and others do not. Interestingly enough, Beck made his point-- 300,000 gathered to hear him speak . An army preparing to move the country back to a past that has been responsible the economic and social woes, our time? The levels of political polarization we are experiencing? But his intention to show-oof the length and depth of his political 'map' was well taken. A message was sent. Now comes the interpretation!! To be laughed at or taken seriously? I'll always go with the latter.
That said, conservatives have made their point; and given mid-terms elections loom large on the horizon, Democrats are fore-warned on what to expect.
Yep, the right is inspired.. passionate to bring change- - their version. By saying, NO we can't as we think: jobs, education and healthcare, among other things. But if you are among America's middle class and on the edge-- don't look to have Glen Beck as the Messiah to save you--because he wont. Cannot!.
Glenn Beck as a dream.. but not in the name of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
What happend on the Washington Mall in the name of Dr. King was poltically motivated. No two ways about it. Irrespective, of the 'jungle of spin' he wanted to make an impression beyond his classroom, and he did. Did he have an impact on anyone outside of the Tea Party? Waiting to see that demonstrated in the polls on election day. Are Democrats fascinated? Concerned about Glenn Beck and his 300,000 disciples?
Better yet, does President Obama -- have a game plan to take them on? Beck has described the President as a racist. In that light his troops must be thinking how to defeat Mr. Obama.
I would hope a battle plan is under consideration in the political WAR room wherever Democrats convene. But on Beck --what say you? Ready for a ticket with Sarah and Beck as a team for 2012?
I am! In the words of a former President.. "Bring it on! I am loving it. Every moment! McPolitics has never been so interesting. Join the conversation!!
VernaSmith
Video Bar
Monday, August 30, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
The Economy: Throw the 'baby' out with the bathwater....??
A week of distractions. WhoA! The tea party and their groupies have been busy. From talks on "Restoring Honor to America" to some returning to an America 'their Dad remembers' For now I want to settle just on what is of major importance to most of us- working middle class Americans, the economy.
But what will that take to restore the economy--throwing out the 'baby' with the bathwater? In short, The Democrats this coming November?
Most of us have heard this anecdote--used it to clarify.. add muscle to an argument. Now I simply repeating it when I think of a sluggish economy and asking the question: what happens to turn things around? Yes, there is no doubt the President inherited a financial system that was in 'free fall,' without a series of finanical incentives, for example-- legislation which added needed stimulus funds in billions of dollars, this nation and its economy would certainly be in the image of the depression of 1929. We didn't get that far. Thank heavens?
But will that in itself save us? Should there have been a larger stimulus as some economists stated at the time? Possibly! However, given what we now know, nothing from that seem to trickling to down in form of real dollars. If anything we are all waiting on the 'Godot' or better yet President Obama should he have something new to tell us. Not sure where the answer lies but this excerpt taken from an editorial in the New York Times helps clarify what most of us are thinking.
The November elections are here. At our doorsteps. Some folks are so frustrated ...not with Mr. Obama per se, but with party politics in Washington. They are ready to do/vote in a different way. Such they go that way, unwisely they could en danger their own recovery, and opportunity to move forward.
Yes, throw the baby out with the bathwater, seem a quick and easy solution. But forget it!! How can anyone forget the last 8 years of what led to this, catastrophe-- and in a rush-- vote no on Democrats who now have the majority? What good will that do? Please, think again.
Why take us back to past we fear even to think of? Our best, hope despite the thought to regress, keep going forward. We need both the baby and the bathwater!!
VernaSmith
But what will that take to restore the economy--throwing out the 'baby' with the bathwater? In short, The Democrats this coming November?
Most of us have heard this anecdote--used it to clarify.. add muscle to an argument. Now I simply repeating it when I think of a sluggish economy and asking the question: what happens to turn things around? Yes, there is no doubt the President inherited a financial system that was in 'free fall,' without a series of finanical incentives, for example-- legislation which added needed stimulus funds in billions of dollars, this nation and its economy would certainly be in the image of the depression of 1929. We didn't get that far. Thank heavens?
But will that in itself save us? Should there have been a larger stimulus as some economists stated at the time? Possibly! However, given what we now know, nothing from that seem to trickling to down in form of real dollars. If anything we are all waiting on the 'Godot' or better yet President Obama should he have something new to tell us. Not sure where the answer lies but this excerpt taken from an editorial in the New York Times helps clarify what most of us are thinking.
Mr. Obama and his economic team had clearly hoped for an economic rebound in time for the midterm elections. They are not going to get it. The economic damage they inherited was too deep, and the economic stimulus they pushed through Congress, for all of the fight, was too small. Standing back is not doing the country or his party any good. We believe Americans are ready for hard truths and big ideas.As my anxiety grows cannot help thinking what hard truths need to be faced? Told? Is Larry Summers and Tim Geithner really the persons to continue as part of Mr. Obama's Economic 'Roundtable'? No I'm not making the claims of House Minority Leader, John Boehner who because of the failure of his party to provide real solutions on the economy, he calls for the president to fire all on his team. My intentions are not to agree with that NO strategy, but to say/ask is Summers a good messenger for the President--helpful to articulate the facts on what gone wrong? Right? Or how it can be corrected?
The November elections are here. At our doorsteps. Some folks are so frustrated ...not with Mr. Obama per se, but with party politics in Washington. They are ready to do/vote in a different way. Such they go that way, unwisely they could en danger their own recovery, and opportunity to move forward.
Yes, throw the baby out with the bathwater, seem a quick and easy solution. But forget it!! How can anyone forget the last 8 years of what led to this, catastrophe-- and in a rush-- vote no on Democrats who now have the majority? What good will that do? Please, think again.
Why take us back to past we fear even to think of? Our best, hope despite the thought to regress, keep going forward. We need both the baby and the bathwater!!
VernaSmith
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Showdown Near Ground Zero: On Mosque, 'Masks' and Men!
Who would have thought given recent reports more Americans are still being laid off and there are reasons to be concerned about the economy and jobs.. that the headlines would be about: Mosque, 'masks' and men? But it is!
Yep, the Mosque madness continues and recent polls show a significant number of Americans are opposed to seeing a mosque built two blocs from Ground Zero in New York City. Adding to that, after the president spoke boldly about his support of Muslims practicing their faith-- given the tenets of our Constitution... the rabid right goes on attack. Worse, Franklin Graham, son of Evangelist Billy Graham and 'heir' to the their throne outrightly calls the President a Muslim, although for more than twenty years, Mr. Obama has been a Christian.
Clearly battle lines are drawn on 'religion'. I repeat--on religion, while America's middle class go without essentials as citizens in the richest country in the world.
Literally its about: politics, more politics, practiced to the extreme to bring forth a win for conservatives in mid-terms elections due in just about eighty (84) four days.
Surely, memories of 911 bring much emotions to the forefront. I know of no one who was not touched somehow by that tragedy, but even in the midst of the right/wrong of building so close to that site... common sense and logic must prevail. Emotions could take over, if we are not careful. But is that the way to go? For those of us not knowledgeable on: Muslims, Arabs, mosques-- all are terrorists. Sleeper cells under every table, tesk, garage. But is that the case? Should one go on/accept the premise as we think: stereotypes and other Americans? Other ethnic groups? That's the big question. As I ponder that I equally think of the wisdom of developers thinking that would be a good place for cultural center?
One cannot ignore the fact these questions are being asked, contemplated again and again.
This controversy, however, reveals the constitution...still remains for many-- not what America is all about. Or should be about. Yes, caught up in blind emotions, I would say no way-- can an Islamic Center be built close to Ground Zero. But by accepting such a fact-- neither can: temples, churches of others groups --who make up America's pluralistic society. Members of the GOP as a: Sarah Palin and Newt have become embroiled in this controversy adding flames to a fire as they try to compare our standards/culture to that of Saudia Arabia, Iran among other states in the Middle East.
Do we as Americans want such a comparison? Would accept it? Not happy that the place Puritans from England fled to practice their religion centuries ago has become the scene where some politicians bare there 'masks' of rage and bigotry. Talk about mice and men.
Where are the cool-- logical thinkers in the Republican Party? Among liberals too? Must also ask when did the GOP decide to throw this part of their voting constituency under a bus based on beliefs of a 'theocracy'?
Most Muslims are considered to be largely Republicans. Does this level of anger thrown at them concern for the GOP? Other ethnic groups?
But should we take a look back in time. Think about what happened immediately after 911... what family was given permission to leave the country as an exception-- when most airlines/airports were down... given acts of terrorism.? Also which Republican former president said that given the importance of the Muslim community in America a Koran has been added to the library at the White House? Your turn to fill in the blanks.
Question: when did contempt for Muslims begin? After Rush called President Obama an Imam? Or before that? This sentiment seemed to have creeped up on most of us. Could be wrong.
Arabs/Muslims are among America's wealthiest. Have 'oil' written in the name/places of origin. But still are considered the friendliest most accepting groups among us. But looking at the larger picture -- the GOP no longer hase interest in international politics? Internatinal Relations? And the implications on business and politics beyond our borders?
Politics is at play all around. Not to mention its high tea being served! Don't be fooled. This is about elections in September and in 2012. So will voters be bamboozled to look beyond their interests to focus on this? I would hope not. Not terribly happy with what's happening as I think 'Congress' and pieces of legislations which have failed to get attention of both parties-- GOP in particular. So I will continue to keep my 'eyes' on the issues paramount to the country at large. There are many, but which tops the list? My list-- The economy.
All else-- Mosque, masks and men take a secondary place. So on the political menu this week as I looked at what McPolitics offered-- suprisingly nothing nutritous'; offerings clearly had too much trans fat--cholestoral, salt, flour -- politics that shouldn't be eaten or digested. All junk food --irrespective of the headlines.
The 'politics' and conversations around the Mosque and its outcome at Park Place 51 in New York City will continue-- but in the meantime it remains a local issue. Consequently, I will keep my eyes on jobs, and who in our political leadership wants to take on the subject of providing more jobs, opportunities for prosperity -- a better life Americans, with the same level of Passion! Hoopla and WhoA!
Are you caught up in the passion of this moment? Should the mosque be moved to another location as the Governor of the state suggested? Among others? Or should Muslims be allowed to build there? I predict, there will be no 'peace' should it be built. A likely Cultural Center of 'Understanding' is poised to become one of mis-understanding. Giving no credit to the detractors from the real issues that concern us, lets hope another option takes the spotlight--and send those who want to win an election on 'mosques'' home without a victory. Speak!
VernaSmith
Yep, the Mosque madness continues and recent polls show a significant number of Americans are opposed to seeing a mosque built two blocs from Ground Zero in New York City. Adding to that, after the president spoke boldly about his support of Muslims practicing their faith-- given the tenets of our Constitution... the rabid right goes on attack. Worse, Franklin Graham, son of Evangelist Billy Graham and 'heir' to the their throne outrightly calls the President a Muslim, although for more than twenty years, Mr. Obama has been a Christian.
President Obama
Clearly battle lines are drawn on 'religion'. I repeat--on religion, while America's middle class go without essentials as citizens in the richest country in the world.
Literally its about: politics, more politics, practiced to the extreme to bring forth a win for conservatives in mid-terms elections due in just about eighty (84) four days.
Surely, memories of 911 bring much emotions to the forefront. I know of no one who was not touched somehow by that tragedy, but even in the midst of the right/wrong of building so close to that site... common sense and logic must prevail. Emotions could take over, if we are not careful. But is that the way to go? For those of us not knowledgeable on: Muslims, Arabs, mosques-- all are terrorists. Sleeper cells under every table, tesk, garage. But is that the case? Should one go on/accept the premise as we think: stereotypes and other Americans? Other ethnic groups? That's the big question. As I ponder that I equally think of the wisdom of developers thinking that would be a good place for cultural center?
One cannot ignore the fact these questions are being asked, contemplated again and again.
This controversy, however, reveals the constitution...still remains for many-- not what America is all about. Or should be about. Yes, caught up in blind emotions, I would say no way-- can an Islamic Center be built close to Ground Zero. But by accepting such a fact-- neither can: temples, churches of others groups --who make up America's pluralistic society. Members of the GOP as a: Sarah Palin and Newt have become embroiled in this controversy adding flames to a fire as they try to compare our standards/culture to that of Saudia Arabia, Iran among other states in the Middle East.
Do we as Americans want such a comparison? Would accept it? Not happy that the place Puritans from England fled to practice their religion centuries ago has become the scene where some politicians bare there 'masks' of rage and bigotry. Talk about mice and men.
Where are the cool-- logical thinkers in the Republican Party? Among liberals too? Must also ask when did the GOP decide to throw this part of their voting constituency under a bus based on beliefs of a 'theocracy'?
Most Muslims are considered to be largely Republicans. Does this level of anger thrown at them concern for the GOP? Other ethnic groups?
But should we take a look back in time. Think about what happened immediately after 911... what family was given permission to leave the country as an exception-- when most airlines/airports were down... given acts of terrorism.? Also which Republican former president said that given the importance of the Muslim community in America a Koran has been added to the library at the White House? Your turn to fill in the blanks.
Question: when did contempt for Muslims begin? After Rush called President Obama an Imam? Or before that? This sentiment seemed to have creeped up on most of us. Could be wrong.
Arabs/Muslims are among America's wealthiest. Have 'oil' written in the name/places of origin. But still are considered the friendliest most accepting groups among us. But looking at the larger picture -- the GOP no longer hase interest in international politics? Internatinal Relations? And the implications on business and politics beyond our borders?
Politics is at play all around. Not to mention its high tea being served! Don't be fooled. This is about elections in September and in 2012. So will voters be bamboozled to look beyond their interests to focus on this? I would hope not. Not terribly happy with what's happening as I think 'Congress' and pieces of legislations which have failed to get attention of both parties-- GOP in particular. So I will continue to keep my 'eyes' on the issues paramount to the country at large. There are many, but which tops the list? My list-- The economy.
All else-- Mosque, masks and men take a secondary place. So on the political menu this week as I looked at what McPolitics offered-- suprisingly nothing nutritous'; offerings clearly had too much trans fat--cholestoral, salt, flour -- politics that shouldn't be eaten or digested. All junk food --irrespective of the headlines.
The 'politics' and conversations around the Mosque and its outcome at Park Place 51 in New York City will continue-- but in the meantime it remains a local issue. Consequently, I will keep my eyes on jobs, and who in our political leadership wants to take on the subject of providing more jobs, opportunities for prosperity -- a better life Americans, with the same level of Passion! Hoopla and WhoA!
Are you caught up in the passion of this moment? Should the mosque be moved to another location as the Governor of the state suggested? Among others? Or should Muslims be allowed to build there? I predict, there will be no 'peace' should it be built. A likely Cultural Center of 'Understanding' is poised to become one of mis-understanding. Giving no credit to the detractors from the real issues that concern us, lets hope another option takes the spotlight--and send those who want to win an election on 'mosques'' home without a victory. Speak!
VernaSmith
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Jobs..the Mosque: Obama between a Rock and Hard Place..!
As mid-term elections get closer...and the cry for jobs and more jobs increase, President Obama finds himself in a tough spot. But is eighteen months, realistically enough time to see a meaningful turn-around in the economy given where he started in Janaury of 2009? Candidly, No!
That said-- voters, supporters among them are on edge. They want answers on: jobs, more jobs now. In fact, recently as cries from 'his base' increased and the GOP party of NO prepares to elevate rumblings for further attack -- the president probably wish he could take cover, somewhere.
But there are no chances to do so. Not to mention, yesterday he joined the 'fray'-- an emotional discussion on the: relevance, right of Muslims to build a mosque close to ground Zero in New York City. Wish he could have stayed out of it.
But as political leader and president of the country... he had an obligation to speak to the issue, and he has. The rapid response, fallout has been quick... ! Irrespective of what decision he made, he would have found himself between a "Rock and Hard Place" given the tenets of this country-- and speaking to right to religious freedom. The right/conservatives are quite mad.. despite Muslims in the past have been stron Republican party supporters.
Fully understand the emotions-- concerns from both sides; but in a tight election year, this was the last thing the president needed on his agenda. Or needed to address. But morally he had speak on the side of what is right. Politics had to take a back seat in this decision.
But what will be the fallout? Will common sense rule in the final analysis? Some families who lost relatives during the 911 tragedy seem to speak for/against the mosque. Absolutely a difficult issue. Should I give in to emotions... I would say No. But turning to logic and what seems right, would say Yes.. as the president has. The good thing, I am not looking to inspire/seek votes in November. President Obama has such a job. But there are times "to do the right thing/say the right thing'. This was such a moment, despite my...'feelings. How will this battle end?
Will common sense rule in country that speaks over 190 languages? And will Muslims who are feared, somewhat -- and significant percentage of the population be embraced during all this? Chime in!
That said-- voters, supporters among them are on edge. They want answers on: jobs, more jobs now. In fact, recently as cries from 'his base' increased and the GOP party of NO prepares to elevate rumblings for further attack -- the president probably wish he could take cover, somewhere.
But there are no chances to do so. Not to mention, yesterday he joined the 'fray'-- an emotional discussion on the: relevance, right of Muslims to build a mosque close to ground Zero in New York City. Wish he could have stayed out of it.
But as political leader and president of the country... he had an obligation to speak to the issue, and he has. The rapid response, fallout has been quick... ! Irrespective of what decision he made, he would have found himself between a "Rock and Hard Place" given the tenets of this country-- and speaking to right to religious freedom. The right/conservatives are quite mad.. despite Muslims in the past have been stron Republican party supporters.
Fully understand the emotions-- concerns from both sides; but in a tight election year, this was the last thing the president needed on his agenda. Or needed to address. But morally he had speak on the side of what is right. Politics had to take a back seat in this decision.
But what will be the fallout? Will common sense rule in the final analysis? Some families who lost relatives during the 911 tragedy seem to speak for/against the mosque. Absolutely a difficult issue. Should I give in to emotions... I would say No. But turning to logic and what seems right, would say Yes.. as the president has. The good thing, I am not looking to inspire/seek votes in November. President Obama has such a job. But there are times "to do the right thing/say the right thing'. This was such a moment, despite my...'feelings. How will this battle end?
Will common sense rule in country that speaks over 190 languages? And will Muslims who are feared, somewhat -- and significant percentage of the population be embraced during all this? Chime in!
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Sen. Michael Bennet: Wins in Colorado Primary
This was the race to watch Senator Bennet vs. Romanoff. For a while was sitting on the edge of my chair after learning that two presidents were supporting different candidates. President Obama supporting Bennet and Bill Clinton Romanoff. Well.. the results are in read it here from Politics Daily. Bennet makes it.
Pleased with the outcome. On this thumbs up to the President. Senator Bennet considered by some to be an "establishement" candidate.. but even if he is -- not sure on the facts, it would have been colossal if he was supported by the President and lost.
On the rest of the primary races-- no real surprises. Teaparty... wins 'increase"? They are serving up more tea as more GOP candidates lose? Not sure on the flavor of the tea leaves.
That said, suprised by Ed Lamont's loss again in Connnecticut.
What's going on over there? Certainly money couldn't buy this one.
VernaSmith
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Shifting Gears: Wyclef Jean for President of Haiti
Well, well, in the age of President Obama "Change" is all around I see. Who would have thought that at this time Wyclef Jean of the Fugees would be throwing his hat in the ring to become Haiti's new president? Some say why would he want to do this... I ask why not?
The country was under a dictator and his son for years... then came a 'glimpse' of democracy under former President Aristede who later was thrown out of power by a coup. Now someone from the younger generation -- and a Haitian citizen, wants to take on the challenge to provide new leadership.
Wyclef Jean--
Given the present circumstances of the nation-- could such a task would seem an impossible for a 'rapper'. Only time will tell.But others with titles of: politicians, economists, military dictators, Indians, chief, et al-- have added their recipe and more, and Haiti today is still being described as the poorest nation in the "Western Hemisphere". I say to Wyclef: go for it... you just couldn't make the situation there anyway worse.
"Power" he may have should he win and how he handles that.. remains the root of the questions being asked particularly by the Western press. In this letter he explains why he wants to run. Again, why should the Haitian people not try to experience change --see it revealed in a nation where something new must be done... and now, to save it from itself? In politics these are exciting times.
I say, Run, Wyclef, Run!
What say you? Join the conversation!
VernaSmith
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
