Nation awaits debate between Sarah Palin, Joe Biden
Originally published Thursday, October 2, 2008 at 12:08 a.m.
Updated Thursday, October 2, 2008 at 1:11 p.m.
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• In Fairbanks, the debate will air live on local TV channels 2, 7, 11 and 13 beginning at 5 p.m. Public TV station KUAC will air the debate at 6 p.m.
• The debate will be broadcast live on public radio station KUAC, 89.9 FM, at 5 p.m.
People can watch the debate at the Wood Center on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, at the Blue Loon and at the Last Roundup on the Old Richardson Highway.
FAIRBANKS — Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin shot onto the national stage Aug. 29 with Sen. John McCain’s announcement that she would run as his vice president, igniting enthusiasm for the Republican ticket.
Voters will find out more about Palin tonight, when she faces the Democratic vice-presidential nominee — Sen. Joe Biden of Delaware — in the one vice-presidential debate of this election. The debate is at Washington University in St. Louis.
“It’s another turning point in the election,” said Gerry McBeath, a political science professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
Palin created an instant sensation among Republicans after the announcement, offering herself as an every-American candidate. But in the month since, she has come under intense media scrutiny, including skepticism of her knowledge and experience in foreign policy. A few select media interviews on national networks haven’t alleviated the concerns that some have begun to express.
The voting public and political analysts will be watching to see whether she can keep the hold on the party base while winning over undecided voters who want substance on the issues affecting their lives.
“This goes far beyond partisan bickering,” said Andrew Halcro, an Alaska politics blogger who ran against Palin in the 2006 governor’s race. “This gets back to people’s 401(k)s, their retirement funds. People thought it was cute, the pit bull with the lipstick at the Republican National Convention, but this is dramatically different. They’re going to be looking for substance, not sound bites.”
Prep time
Preparations this week in Arizona, where Palin spent several days at McCain’s home, were reportedly intense.
“It’s such a high-stakes game,” McBeath said.
He expects a team is grilling Palin on potential topics, while she hones an ability to make on-the-spot adjustments to the ticket’s talking points.
Palin has been closely scrutinized, and political talking heads are likely to analyze her every word. At the same time, she is unfamiliar with some national issues as a matter of daily discourse.
“I’m sure she’s as well prepared as anyone can be who doesn’t have exposure to foreign relations and defense policy,” McBeath said. “No one expects her to be an expert. I think people will be looking at her knowledge and command of the questions she is asked, and if she doesn’t have the answer, how she handles that.”
The overriding goal?
“To be appealing to average American voters,” McBeath said. “Which, of course, is her natural forte.”
What voters want
In large part, McBeath said, voters will be looking for qualities that each candidate adds to the main attractions — McCain, of Arizona, and the Democratic presidential nominee, Sen. Barack Obama, of Illinois.
Biden is a career senator who has made two unsuccessful bids for the presidency. He’ll have to show voters that he isn’t just another senator who has become a running mate, McBeath said. He’ll also need to be clear about what he represents — Obama, or his personal political interests.
Palin, on the other hand, expands McCain’s reach in a meaningful way, hitting home with a different sector of the public, the professor said.
The first-term governor faces a tough contest against Biden, who has served 32 years in the U.S. Senate and has deep foreign policy experience reflected in his current position as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The Democrat is noted for thorough knowledge of his subject matter, as well as a propensity to make gaffes.
In past debates in Alaska, Palin has come across thin on facts and particulars while attracting voters just the same.
Halcro said that’s part of her “populist appeal.” He ran as an Independent in the 2006 gubernatorial race, challenging Republican nominee Palin and former Gov. Tony Knowles, a Democrat.
How Palin does on the issues might not matter much — or at least, it didn’t seem to in the 2006 contest, Halcro said.
“It was frustrating,” he said. “Most of us were very prepared, knew the policies, had positions, had solutions. She had none. And it just didn’t matter. She just has this uncanny ability to talk to people and connect on a personal level. To a lot of people, that’s a fabulous drink.”
Points and pitfalls
On the larger national stage, Palin will have to offer solid, specific answers while artfully handling questions to which she might not know the answer, McBeath said. She’ll also have to take care, as Biden will look for opportunities to spotlight inconsistencies in what Palin has done and what she says.
And as in any contest, the winner’s victory is due in part to an opponent’s performance.
Biden risks coming across as patronizing and as a part of the very establishment that Palin, to applause, has promised voters she and McCain are going to shake up, McBeath and Halcro agreed.
That could be where Palin scores her points.
In order to hold her ground, the governor also will have to avoid potential land mines. Those include wandering sentences plumped by sound bites and generalities, the very items that led to criticism following her interviews with network anchors Charles Gibson of ABC News and Katie Couric of CBS News.
Halcro said Palin can keep on talking to fill the silence, wandering off message with a chain of sound bites that don’t always sound coherent. When the governor is pressed to clarify or explain responses, she shifts to the defensive, often with an attack. That won’t work before a neutral moderator, he said.
As a politician, Palin is known for full-throttle offenses and has a history of shutting off firmly when she’s put on the defensive.
“She is very weak on the defensive,” Halcro said. “Her message never matured on any of the issues. It never had to. She’s never been forced to compete based on ideas and substantive solutions. It’s always been this populist appeal.”
The wild card
Knowing Palin’s debate style, Halcro is predicting moderator Gwen Ifill could be the wild card in this exchange.
“She’s very skilled about dealing with politicians,” Halcro said.
At PBS, Ifill is managing editor of “Washington Week” and is a senior correspondent for “The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.” She also moderated the 2004 vice-presidential debate between Vice President Dick Cheney and then-Sen. John Edwards.
As moderator, Ifill develops the questions she will pose. Neither the candidates nor the Commission on Presidential Debates knows what will be asked, a commission spokesman said.
Queries could cover the spectrum of topics, as the debate broadly includes domestic and foreign policy. It’s likely the candidates will address the economy, which, according to a recent Washington Post-ABC poll, is now the most important issue for more than 50 percent of voters in this election.
Economic woes could offer Palin a chance to give a fresh response about the implications to American families, where she’s established some credibility, McBeath said. McBeath expects her to work her recent meetings with several heads of state into her answers.
“She now knows them on a personal basis. That’s an important message to send,” he said.
Setting the stage
While the debate site, moderator and date were set nearly a year ago by the Commission on Presidential Debates, negotiators from the two campaigns hammered out a few remaining details in September.
The two candidates will stand behind podiums, a concession granted to Biden. But the format will be tighter, with eight 10-minute segments on foreign and domestic policy. That will offer fewer opportunities for direct exchange between the candidates, a concession to Palin.
“That is the most critical and most important for her,” McBeath said.
A debate commission spokesman said about 3,100 journalists from around the world have been credentialed to cover the debate on-site.
That anticipated influx has kept Washington University crews and volunteers busy in recent weeks, according to the school. About eight miles of electrical cable has been laid through the complex where the debate will be held.
And elsewhere on campus, university dining services is hoping to go 2 for 2 with an unofficial, and unscientific, cookie poll.
Staff are selling elephant-shaped cookies iced in red and blue donkey-shaped cookies, and taking a tally. In 2004, more elephants were sold than donkeys, paralleling election results when George W. Bush won the White House.
Community Discussion
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Interesting that a sore loser like Halcro should be quoted within this story. A lot of people have underestimated Sarah to their chagrin. Sarah destroyed Binkley, Murkowski and little Andy Halcro in the 2006 debates. In one debate I watched she beat Frank so bad that he looked physically ill.
The question is, will Biden say something profoundly stupid like he did when he told us that Roosevelt got on TV to talk with America after the '29 stock market crash? Or will he steal someone else's words and claim them as his own?
Here's to Sarah mopping the floor with Biden tomorrow.
PS- And why does the media not question whether Biden is physically fit for the job he seeks? After all he has had a major aneurism in his brain... Scary stuff for such a high stress job he seeks...
Biden has not been vetted by the media like Sarah has.
I wish Sarah would come out against McCain's position on the bailout deal -- that'd garner her a lot of support, I think...
.
Because Joe Biden isn't running to be President "CEO."
Sarah Palin, well, more than a few people already equate her with the Republican nominee for President (scary thought) as talk continues on "what happens if McCain dies, etc. etc.
And I disagree with you on this as well. Millions won't be tuning in to watch Joe Biden. They're tuning in tonight to see if Sarah Palin at least hangs in there, or makes a complete fool of herself (again).
And trust me....Gwen Iffil won't cut her any breaks either. Excellent choice of a moderator. Someone NOT "off the beaten path" that will be sucked in by the "rah-rah" speeches.
Palin will have to come with substance....true knowledge on THE ISSUES or it will Palin "CEO," not Biden that gets "mopped" up.
You ask if Joe Biden will "say something profoundly stupid," but it hasn't been Joe Biden look-alike's on Saturday Night Live not only SAYING "profoundly stupid" things....or Joe Biden LOOKING totally lost in interview's with network media anchors.
Andrew Halcro may have come off as a "sore loser" to a degree, but he has a point. When you prepare yourself extensively for such an event as a debate, then watch it all go to hell at the hands of someone who convincingly talks a good game, but has little to bring to the table on THE ISSUES....you would have problems with that as well.
Saying you wouldn't means you're lying.
He's right on one point though....that game won't cut it on this grand national stage.
It's already a damn shame that this debate process is being "dumbed down" in order to appease her...and give her at least a chance of hanging in the big leagues.
I've never heard more drivel in my life. "Biden has to handle her in a way NOT condescending, regarding her lack of knowledge on THE ISSUES."
"Biden is treading thin ice" because of the whole "male vs. female" thing. Blah! Blah! Blah!
Nobody's wondering if Sarah Palin will be "treading on thin ice" in her approach towards Joe Biden are they?
She is free to "be herself," while Biden is widely being asked to restrain himself for fear that poor Sarah won't get left in his dust.
It's only a Vice-Presidential debate being watched by millions.
We don't want to hurt Sarah's "feel bad's" here. Boo-Hoo-Hoo!
I see a restrained Joe Biden pressing Sarah Palin on THE ISSUES. Questioning her knowledge on THE ISSUES, and telling Americans to look past the pretty face and sweet smile with a clear understanding that she AND her running mate represent nothing more than FOUR MORE YEARS of George W. Bush.
The honeymoon has definitely worn off.
This country is in crisis.
Hockey Mom's....Maverick's and all the other tired adages mean nothing to those "down in the struggle."
The question is....not only "what can you do" to CHANGE that....but can you truly RELATE to the hard times American's are enduring right now.
OldSkool -
How many people do you know that are 'down in the struggle'
Can't be any in Alaska after the big, fat rebate checks and jobs aplenty for those willing to work up here...
Me and everyone I know are doing fine - I would wager that is the same for most people
these CRISIS news stories are just getting more and more frequent the closer we get to election - any coincidence?
Well, OldSkool, Obama does not advertise this, but he is a smoker. So he has a greater chance of having a heart attack, lung cancer, or a stroke while in office as a result. So then there would be, what, Biden, a proven liar (plagiarist) to fill in. With Biden's poor health, that should be a valid concern.
It does make one wonder just what is wrong with Obama that he can't control himself and not smoke. He wants to lead the nation, but he can't even do the basics to take proper care of himself.
And just what kind of role model is he? By smoking he sends the wrong message to America's children. Smoking, and the horrible problems its causes- starting with 400,000 Americans per year dying early, is a problem that needs more attention. (Compare the 3,000 that died in 911 to the number of American's killed by cigarettes, and the issue is clearly not being given enough attention.)
And yes, Big Tobacco makes a concerted effort to hook children (adults are usually smart enough not to start smoking). Compare the evil behavior of Big Tobacco to the Osama fanatics... So far Osama's crowd is not killing nearly as many Americans as Big Tobacco.
Obama smokes cigarettes? First time I heard that.
The article forgot to mention that moderator Gwen Ifill, while an accomplished journalist, also has a book coming out in November largely about Obama. She sells more books if the Democrats win. Conflict of interest?
I also raised an eyebrow at all the quotes from Palin's avowed enemy, Halcro. But it is the Daily News Nuggets.
The book is largely about Obama? Interesting..."Ifill said Obama's story, which she has yet to write, is only a small part of the book, which discusses how politics in the black community have changed since the civil rights era. Among those subjects is Colin Powell, secretary of state in the Bush administration."
Mention of the book came out in August in Time magazine, on Sept. 4 in the Washington Post, and has been available for pre-sale on Amazon.com for a while. McCain's take on it was both that she will, "do a totally effective job" and that it doesn't help that she's written it.
What's all the whining about if they asked for a different moderator?
This country has gone through enough pain the last 7+ years with a president who lacks the intelligence required for that job! Palin is probably a great person, I just think she is not mentally equipped for the position of vice presedent, and you only have to watch her in action (not just on TV), as I have. She is totally lost!!! She has been blasted this week with information, which she should have known already, by the republican party, will she retain any of this information? Maybe, maybe not - one way or the other, she has already shown her complete ignorance for the job.
Sarah, you have a record of rooting corruption out of government.
Will you do that regarding the corruption in Fannie-Gate?
IT's DemoCRATIC ENRON !!
Fannie-Gate...Where's The Investigation
If ever there was a need for an investigation or a special prosecutor, Fannie Gate fits the bill. Politics, Democratic corruption, and a laundry list of Clinton pals have cause Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to go belly up. How come no one wants to get to the bottom of this. Sen. Chris Dodd and Rep. Charles Rangel are up to their ears in potential criminal activity. Where are the calls for an Enron-type investigation?
On May 23, 2006, as a jury in Houston deliberated the case against top Enron executives Kenneth Lay and Jeffrey Skilling, a little-known regulatory agency in Washington, the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight (OFHEO), released a study with the dryly bureaucratic title “Report of the Special Examination of Fannie Mae.” The document received far less attention than the news from Enron, but its conclusions were stunning. In meticulous detail, it outlined a culture of corruption at the Federal National Mortgage Association — better known as Fannie Mae — that rivals the most serious corporate scandals in recent years. In this case, however, the main players are Washington insiders — some of them prominent veterans of the Clinton administration — and the scandal’s effects could ripple through Congress for years.
Fannie Mae is the biggest single source of money for mortgages in the United States. From 1998 to 2004, the years covered by the OFHEO investigation, it was headed by former Clinton budget director Franklin Raines, whose top management team included former Clinton Justice Department official Jamie Gorelick, sometimes mentioned as a future attorney general in a Democratic administration. During that period, the report says, Raines and his team grossly overstated Fannie Mae’s earnings — to the tune of $10.6 billion — for the purpose of paying themselves big bonuses. “By deliberately and intentionally manipulating accounting to hit earnings targets,” the report says, “senior management maximized the bonuses and other executive compensation they received, at the expense of shareholders.” freerepublic.com
It is clear people don't watch Glenn Ifill's Friday night on PBS if they think she is not a liberal. Now the liberal media is saying that a vice presidential debate had never helped a presidential candidate. The news on PBS last night had a feature on Palin in a Florida Retirement community in which they mention, thousands turned out, the thousands were in fact 60,000 people. Obama's campaign realizes it has problems in Florida, one reason Clinton is making speeches there. The one thing all media agrees on, win or lose, we haven't heard the last of Governor Palin on the national political scene.
This is nothing but hype to get tv viewers to tune in.
These debates are planned and rehearsed down to the finest possible detail humanly possible.
Thranslation: political entertainment show business.
Any time you see the same program on all channels at the same beware -- propaganda is there.
Looks like I will watch the history channel and watch the debate during commercials.
Andrew Halcro is a SORE LOSER, but a LOSER none-the-less. I will be glad to see Sarah come back home and do the good job she had been doing as soon as the election is over. Then Halcro can shut up.
"Ak-Guy" you would be surprised to know how many people I know "down in the struggle" that don't even live here in Alaska....living in places Sarah Palin and John McCain don't dare travel to give their message. I watch closely these political rallies they give....and look even closer at the people standing in attendance.
In fact, this week they were in my hometown of Columbus, Ohio...spreading "their message" at Capital University, an extremely affluent SUBURB of Columbus.
I grew up half my life IN Columbus....
Capital University, although just 8 miles away....might as well have been in Hollywood because of its affluence and privilege.
They didn't go to "The Projects" for instance. That's a low-income area in South Columbus...where I come from.
They stayed in areas and surroundings very familiar to them.
So when I say "down in the struggle," THAT'S where I'm coming from "akguy." Besides, low-income people here in Alaska live much better than alot of areas I'm familiar with in the Lower 48...thanks to the PFD, Rebate Checks....etc.
So I say once again.....being a Hockey Mom...Maverick or whatever they they've been trying to bring to the table won't work for a second...in places they wouldn't DARE take their asses, because nobody will want to hear it.
To get my respect, take your ass THERE trying to spread words of wisdom and hope.
Despite reaching relative success over the years, it's a place I've never forgotten.
Then again, if you're never known "struggle" before, and trust me, there's alot more in this country than you probably know, then you can't relate.
I think Candidate Obama can relate on that level a helluva whole lot more than Candidates McCain and Palin.
As I've said in these posts before, I keep hearing people say "Sarah Palin and John McCain identify with REAL people."
But I've never been able to get an explanation on just what "REAL" people means. And who they are.
I'm usually told this by people living "high on the hog" as well, so the term "REAL" people couldn't mean everybody.
Just those "just like them."
Obama can relate? From the hoods of Harvard? From organizing those "down in the struggle", then hopping in the car and leaving before it gets dark. He is as much from the struggle as any sociologist who studies the scene then goes back to their ivory towers. I was pretty liberal when I worked in the inner city of Detroit. I met a lot of really good people in the projects. I also saw a lot of animals who didn't blame society for their plight. They were proud of their crimes, it is who they were! 10 years of living and working in Flint and Detroit turned me to a conservative view and a loathing of Democrats and liberals for their use/abuse of those in "the stuggle".
I can't wait to watch Palin make a fool of herself again. More material for some good comedy. That's what makes America so rich. Let's hope she isn't put in a position to lead our Nation when she should be caring for her grandchildren and looks like she needs to be raising them completely. Just watch Obama talk about the 700 billion dollar bailout and watch Palin and think about who knows what they are talking about. Vote for someone who understands these issues, not someone who will tell us to tell us to pray harder. If she is a leader of our country we are going to enter the dark ages again.
I went to a "town meeting" where Palin spoke and then made the mistake of taking questions from the audience. I have honestly never seen anything like it!! It seemed Palin was just pulling words out of the air, making no sense whatsoever. After the meeting, people were just shaking their heads and wondering why on earth McCain and his handlers choose someone like that! If it was an attempt to get votes from Hillary supporters, it hasn't worked. And to think that this woman could become president!!!!! I'm a Republican, but I love my country to much to see Palin in that position, I will vote for the Democrats.
Hey OldSkool, I'm surprised you actually responded to someone. Usually you write your extremely long and rambling statements full of hyperbole and cliche, never to return when someone shoots holes in your rhetoric.
You say candidate hussein can relate better to those who "struggle." Why is that, because he's from Chicago? Is it because he's organized community committees? Or is it because he has ties to all those muslim terrorists who have been "struggling" to attack our country the past 7 years?
I tell you who your close personal friend Sarah Palin can relate too, Alaskans! I hate to tell you, but if you still lived in the big city of Columbus, candidate hussein would be able to relate to you. But now that you're living in hoe-bunk Fairbanks, hussein could give two squirts about you. Is his campaign office still even open up here?
El Diablo has spoken.
I can see Russia from my house.
It's my opinion that wishing for your fellow citizen to fail is dastardly, despicable, unpatriotic, and un-American. We should be wishing for a good debate between two strong and thoughtful candidates. Those who wish otherwise (you littlelostone) tempt karma to enter into your own lives.
Yeah 99712...as much as you don't want to admit it...Obama CAN relate.
He (and his wife Michelle) went deep into debt getting that education in the "hood of Harvard." This wasn't a given by any means.
Obama was NOT born into privilege mind you.
When was the last time you heard a presidential candidate this close to winning office talking about "growing up on Food Stamps?"
I don't remember ever in my 43 years hearing anything like that from the "same old same old" of the silver spoon mentality.
So its safe to say, he knew OF STRUGGLE well before he was "organizing", hopping into his car, and leaving before it gets dark 99712.
I find that remark offensive at best.
Obama speaks vividly of those times as well.
I'm not knocking you, but I just find it funny that the "other side" says they reach out to "ordinary" people.
And I ask "JUST WHO" the Hell they are talking about when they say such things.
Because alot of people I know, it definitely ain't them.
When you hop on a platform and say you want to reach out to ALL people, then it should be ALL people. Not just those "just like you."
Will Gwen Ifill, make it clear to all America voters what Obama full name is? Cover-up Jan.09 when her book is due out? We need to pray for Joe, as he had two brain operations in the past.
Talk about smoking>
http://mediamatters.org/items/2007011800...
Yeah,
Couple of comments, here, mostly from OldSkool and the one right above me that seem to try and correlate the Fey portrayal of Palin as the actual Palin.
Clouded, clouded rhetoric.
"Sourdough" if ya knew me....then you know I don't run from a challenge. In fact, I love it, and welcome responses of all kinds.
That's the fun of it all, I think.
Bottom line is....I'm not asking these candidates to give "two squirts" about me.
What I want is a candidate that can relate to ALL sides of our society, not just those that make them most comfortable.
Obama comes closest to doing that.
I've lived here in Alaska 23 years now, but this race for President and Vice-President isn't just about Alaska.
I've lived in big city (Columbus), metropolis (Los Angeles) and small town as well (Fairbanks), and have lived to a degree on both sides of the socio-economic spectrum.
Candidates that can go to ALL sides of that spectrum speak volumes for me.
Not those that go where they feel, and interact with those people that make, them most comfortable.
Once again! When you step up and say you want to represent ALL people, that should mean ALL people...of ALL races, creeds and socio-economic backgrounds.
When you've never been there...how can you do that?
I'm proud that Sarah Palin represents Alaska, but this is about a COUNTRY that's in crisis. Not just Alaska "Sourdough."
And McCain, he of the 8 homes and 13 cars.....plus the very rich spouse, can't relate either.
Good thing about Palin is....we'll have her back here in due time as our Governor.
And "Ponderous".....Tina Fey won't have her to spoof any longer either. Bummer.
Last but not least Sourdough....I'm standing right here.
"Running" from anything was something I did as a very young child at times.
It definitely ain't something I do at all in the present day.
And just like you "El Diablo," I have spoken as well.
What ever happened to Bi Mike? He always had something nice to say about Palin.
"Rhetoric?"
"Rambling?"
Just the plain and simple, and at times, brutal truth "Sourdough."
"Shoot holes" at your leisure, and keep missing the mark.
I usually don't return because I keep a very busy schedule....but you calling me out with the "never to return" bull?
Yeah! I'm having fun right now.
In any event, the debate is tonight....and we've got just a few weeks until this election is OVER.
That is what I'm reaching for.
If McCain/Palin manage to win....I won't be surprised, and this country deserves to get everything its getting right now. Four more years of the same.
If Obama/Biden win......I'll actually be able to travel BACK to Columbus, visit my mother's gravesite, and share a quiet moment on a subject WE BOTH not only talked about extensively, but thought we'd never live to see.
She didn't!
There's a good chance I just may get the opportunity.
http://www.quitsmokingpainlesslynow.com/...
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Maybe Sarah should see a doctor about if she suffers from hypeventilation. Too much oxygen makes people sound daffy and talk in circles. The doctors might recommend she take up smoking.
http://www.old-time.com/commercials/1940...
Scheunemann might be desperate enough to give her a pack of Camels.
You are fired up indeed OldSkool. I like it. I also like the fact that you aren't concerned about a candidate giving two squirts about you, then go and claim that you represent just about every part of socio-economic scale. So in essence are you not concerned that the democratic candidate (no more hussein) could care less about someone who represents every part of the socio-economic scale? ALL sides of the spectrum indeed. How will Obama go to the side of the spectrum that uses a gun to feed their family? By stripping that constitutional right? How will Obama go to the middle class family (not on food stamps) who can't afford to buy groceries because of all the subsidies that go to American farmers for producing ethanol instead of grain and corn, thus creating extremely high prices at the food market? Representing all sides doesn't mean all sides that live in a city.
I will admit that my Alaska pride (I've lived nowhere else) clouds my judgement from time to time, but man it will be nice to have someone in the White House who will fight for the 49th state just like I would. Both McCain and Palin would do so. Obama would not, at least not for small towns like Wasilla.
El Diablo has spoken.
I think we're all missing the point here (sourdoughdiablo and OldSkoolNook42 with your little pissing contest). The point is that Sarah Palin is hot and that's the only reason why people will vote for the republican ticket. Barrack Obama is a man of stature, he will bring this country out of the current crisis, by raising taxes and giving it back to poor folks, including us in Alaska. I'm thankful that we'll have a president who will take care of us, because it's quite clear that Americans no longer have the wherewithal to take care of ourselves.
I have the utmost respect for Palin and her family, unfortunately she has been used by McCain and his handlers. They thought the women who backed Hillery would vote for Palin, that was before she spoke to the media (Katie Couric and others) and showed she knew absolutely nothing about diplomacy, foreigh relations, supreme court decisions, etc., etc., etc. Actually it is very hard for me to understand how she was ever voted in as governor. Just because she can "see Russia" from Alaska??
OldSkool,
I want to read what you write but your complete lack of paragraph structure hurts my head. I'm sure I'm not alone in saying that if you wrote with any sort of understanding on composition, we might take you a bit more serious.
It's gonna be a Jack&Coke, everytime I hear "Russia,Alaska,Lipstick,Hockey Mom,McCain,(Any World Leader's name)4 Wheeler,Moose,Tina Fey,Obama,or election".Guess who ain't going to work Friday?
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Hey Grudge, climb back in your movie, and stop correcting people, Its out of context. This will all come to fruition tonight, its do or die time, and hopefully our fellow alaskan wont make us look like a bunch of redneck morons. Hope she did her homework.
akguy wrote:
OldSkool -
How many people do you know that are 'down in the struggle'
Can't be any in Alaska after the big, fat rebate checks and jobs aplenty for those willing to work up here...
Me and everyone I know are doing fine - I would wager that is the same for most people ~
.... You honestly think that everyone is Alaska is doing fine??? You know - that rebate check - no matter how FAT it is, does not save everyone! In fact many POOR people don't even get them - OR if they do and happen to be on any type of public assistance - they are in jepordy of losing their benefits. I have been a hard working woman for my entire adult life - but illness that I could not controll took my ability to work away.... I have no kids and am to young (31 yrs old) to qualify for much in the lines of public assistance... I DO NOT get that big fat check - and even if I did.... it would only help me ensure that I don't freeze to death this winter. Trust me... I am not the only one - there are PLENTY of struggleing people in this country - and plenty in Alaska. I am glad that you and EVERYONE you know is living happy and fat - but let me assure you - there are way more poor people out there than you seem to notice. And most of us are not poor because we choose to be - to be a struggeling person does not make you a lazy person - quite the opposite - often it's the poor - lowest guy on the totem pole who works harder than the rest for their tiny little paychecks. Even in ALASKA!
Oldskool--what I could get out of your ramblings is that you are voting for the man because he is black. Am I right? I really hope you have used your judgement a little more wisely than that.
Why would McCain and Palin set themselves up in an area (the hood) for failure? Do you think that Obama is setting up rally's or speeches in areas that he knows would be a disaster? Speaking to all is your concern with McCain--well if that is the case Obama disrespected all of us when he couldn't put his hand over his heart or site our Pledge of Allegiance.
Was he texting during The Pledge? Was he talking on the phone? Because last time I was somewhere where the Pledge was being recited, this is what I saw. At least he was paying attention.
NolaUrels--lame--are all the other people running to be President of the United Sates?
Nope, but I bet they will be voting.
Sad--because you are probably right.
Oldskool--what I could get out of your ramblings is that you are voting for the man because he is black. Am I right? I really hope you have used your judgement a little more wisely than that.
La girl-
I cannot belive you had the nerve to post that. Whether or not thats why oldskool is voting for obama (from what i read its not) its not your place to make that assumption. Are you voting for palin because she's a white woman that wears lipstick. because that doest qualify her to become vp. and she's really going to need to step up and prove that she's more than the tina faye character makes her. They pretty much re enacted that interview without editing it. nothing she's done has given me any confidence in her.
Believe it--2legit. No, I would not vote for anyone based on age, gender, religion, race or anything that doesn't pertain to making this country a better place. It is my place to make opinions of what people type on this thread--I do believe we still have freedom of speech.
BTW, maybe you shouldn't make assumptions---it is lagirl not La girl.
That's called getting put in a BOX 2legit!!!
lagirl.....you really should check the facts before you post libelous statements.
It was not the Pledge of Allegiance in question but the National Anthem during which Senator Obama is shown in photos without his hand over his heart. Not many folks do the hand-over-heart during the national anthem, nor is it expected.
"Modern custom does not require a hand over the heart, said Ann Garside, director of communication for the Maryland Historical Society, home of the original manuscript of the Star-Spangled Banner."
As to his supposed inability to quote the Pledge of Allegiance? Another of your lies! He has long ago answered that accusation with the following:
"My grandfather taught me how to say the Pledge of Allegiance when I was 2", Obama said, his annoyance obvious. "During the Pledge of Allegiance you put your hand over your heart. During the national anthem you sing."
Shame on you, lagirl, for continuing to spew your hateful venom!
Back way up and check yourself before you start ganging up on lagirl,
Her comment was astute given the fact that Oldskool makes two or three insinuations regarding race in every comment he posts. He made that judgement about Palin a few weeks ago when she rallied in Fairbanks. If you recall, he said that because only supporters were asked to attend, he found correlation with the "back of the bus" attitude of the privledged majority, a.k.a. white society, which is best represented by the Republican party according to his posts.
Time and time again, he makes it very clear that is his biggest beef in regard to Palin and John McCain.
Perhaps lagirl should have asked, "Are you not voting for McCain and Palin because they're white?" To me, that is getting at the heart of what Oldskool is ranting about.
lagirl has asked the question that needed to be asked.
By the way, I'm minority and I'll vote McCain/Palin. If anyone else cares to bring up race, ... try this on for size: John McCain and wife, Cindy, adopted a beautiful East Indian baby 16 years ago and proudly call her their daughter. Racist? Sarah Palin has been happily married to her husband of 20 years, and Eskimo Indian. Racist?
Exactly who are the "privledged" Oldskool keeps talking about?
lagirl
You are a typical hater. It makes no difference to you if you are telling the truth or not, but do you realize how dumb you sound?
Oonderous
It makes no difference what race you are, ignorance is ignorance, and YOU are ignorant!!
Patrick---what hateful venom are you speaking of? Maybe I miss spoke about the Pledge, but the National Anthem is just as symbolic. The U.S Flag Code states: During a rendtiton of the national anthem when the flag is displayed all present except those in uniform should stand at attention and face the flag with their right hand over their heart.
If you aren't aware of what the symbolism is--for me it is showing respect for all of those that have died for my freedoms. The President of all people should understand that.
Sarah, still has more governing experience than all the rest of them put together.
The Democrats shills in the press have been poor mouthing her for the last few weeks because they she might swing the election from BO.
How many years of experience governing has Obama had?
Has he been president of any thing?
Mayor of any city?
Governor of any state?
How has he served his country?
How did he making a living as a teenager?
I notice Sarah has worked her way up from PTA, to city council, to mayor, to governor.
Also she was re elected to city council and mayor several times. A vote of confidence from people in a little town were everyone knows everyone else's dirty laundry -- is in my judgment her re-elections are worth considering.
To me her re election says: we trust her / like her / she is doing what we want.
Obama was in the state house where he mostly voted "present" (aka I am to chicken to take sides). He has been in the US Senate running to president for the last 2 years.
He is a slick talker, Hitler was a slick talker, Castro was a slick talker, I am extremely suspicious any slick talkers.
The fact the media loves Obama is nothing more then side walk superintendents telling me how to vote based to today's talking point campaign script.
Sarah has a track record of leadership; Obama's track shows no leadership of anything.
Only a fool believes anything on TV.
I choose my candidate months ago; before the BS covered everything up.
NOT ONE SINGLE TV CON ARTIST WILL BE IMPEACHED FOR ANY MISTAKES.
Only the President of the United States will suffer for any mistake. The media BS-ers- all walk; and, pass Go without ever without taking any chance of landing on Board Walk with 5 hotels.
Sarah Still Has my support.
PS
I hope she takes Biden's manhood home to be mounted next to the moose head after she Field Dress the #2 Democrat.
Most of all, I am proud to see an Alaskan have a chance to advance to VP of the world's most powerful nation.
And to you Obama shills, posting.. demand a pay raise... you just as well make some serious money off the complain.. you better believe his backers plan to make a lot of money and move up as they take over the federal government.
hadrian,
The only one who is exhibiting hate or ignorance would be the person to whom I am writing this comment for.
hardian, ...hardrian 08. I admit I am minority, you call me ingorant. lagirl asks a valid question and you call her hateful.
Typical, liberal rage. I am not impressed.
...ooops, I mean hadrian38, ....
I guess I don't get it why I am being called a hater for pointing out that Oldskool preaches like he is voting based on race. Why does that make me a hater? Shouldn't that make Oldskool a hater?
Oldskool has the most accurate writing of all candidates. I thought the majority of Americans were far beyond race issues. In 2008, if some people are still stuck on race, go back to high school.
shes going to get her a$$ handed to her. cant wait.
Dove has made my point about race (in voting for President). I guess Oldskool's writing is accurate if you are voting for Obama. Then if we all agreed there would be no point to this thread or for having a presidential campaign.
Now I support Mr. Obama, and he'll get my vote. But my goodness OldSkool has really been "Skooled" in this thread. Come on OldSkool! Don't let these conservative Alaskans work you over like this, its more embarrassing than Palin's interview with Couric. Oh cripes, the debates are starting. DTNS OldSkool.
lagirl......you said "If you aren't aware of what the symbolism is--for me it is showing respect for all of those that have died for my freedoms. The President of all people should understand that."
Don't you dare accuse me of not not being "aware of what the symbolism is"! I have shown more respect and given selfless service to my country and am more of a patriot than you ever could hope to be!
Once again, it is not necessary to hold one's hand over one's heart during the national anthem. Most people do not do it, including me.
You are out of touch with this nation and what it stands for, lagirl.
Palin, is getting destroyed. I love it!
Pat-you must be one of those people that are better than everyone! Don't assume to know anything about me. I now know that you don't have enough respect to cover your heart.......that's a shame! There are many things that have changed in this nation----but that doesn't make it right.
lagirl it is really humorous that so many who seek to silence TRUTH accuse you, and anyone else who is honestly not an Obama supporter, of being "HATEFUL" or LIBELOUS" or some other "SCARY LABEL" in an effort to make those who do not follow and kiss Obama's (*AHEM*) "FEET" shut up. Keep up your honest thoughts.
Sarah beat up poor old "Joseph Robinette Biden" with his own comment where he said that Obama was not yet ready to be President.... Poor old Biden was speechless....
Very good Sarah!!!!
lagirl.......I never professed to be "better than everyone". Of course I know very little about you....as a person. But your posts speak volumes about your political and social views and they are warped!
Again.....you don't tell me I lack respect, lady! I have far more respect and loyalty for my country than you'll probably ever have, including 20 years of military service and 25 years of civil service.
That said, why on earth would you and your ilk try and find fault with such trivial matters such as the hand-over-heart issue when this country is on the verge of financial collapse brought on by the most immoral administration this country has ever seen? Isn't it time to concentrate on what really matters? Barack Omaba is about to be elected as the 44th president of the United States and it would behoove us to work with him instead of against him, don't you think?
Well, I wouldn't want anything to behoove you! So, you think that I should stand behind Obama IF he is elected Pres? Why? Do you stand behind Bush now? Don't you think that is a little absurd to ask of someone?
Of course I do not stand behind Bush, nor do 73% of the country! Makes me wonder, though, just who the hell these 27% are! Do we really have that many morons in this country?! I did not vote for Bush in 2000 but gave the man the benefit of the doubt, hoping he might follow through on at least some of this campaign promises. He did not, obviously, and has taken this nation to the edge of ruin!
You should also give Obama the benefit of the doubt and respect unless and/or until he proves otherwise.
"Sarah beat up poor old "Joseph Robinette Biden" with his own comment where he said that Obama was not yet ready to be President.... Poor old Biden was speechless...."
That's all you have, Andrew? Your posts continue to be shallow and immature.
While Palin did better than her lowered expectations, the polls thus far are showing Biden as the clear winner. Several ex-Bush officials admit that Biden won the debate and "one senior Republican member of Congress tonight says he thinks the election has basically been lost over the last couple of weeks."
FYI.. I checked at my local bank -- here in Fairbanks. They continue to loan money -- it is business as usual --- car loans and mortgage loans
In Maryland, they have a housing boom; and there all kinds of credit is available to buy housing.
These were random samples.. Check with your bank.. see if the TV HYPE matches the sob stories and TV propaganda.
I suspect credit is available, just as it always has been.
The air heads on TV claim: the world is going to come to an end if House does don't vote Yes for the bail out.
The bill has about 140 billion dollars worth of gifts to special interest earmarks-- cash out of the till gifts. That stuff may or may or many not have merit. Money for Acorn? What the %&^*& is Acon?
The ear marks are nothing but bribe money buying support.
The bail out will probably will pass; NOT because it has merit, will do the job, addresses the problem.. but rather because of self serving petty special interests think they are more important than our country with their hands in the till.
Re: the stock market.
We are in a bear market and it will run for a while.
Safe haven FDIC insured CDs are paying less than the rate of inflation.. (looks to me about 1/3). If the banking system needs money it needs to pay rent.
HB 1424 is up for consideration.
Well it passed..
Don Young held firm.
Just checked the DJI (Dow).
10:40 am Friday.
Up 12 points.
Let's congress spent 840 billion and the dow went up 12 points..
Your tax dollars at work.
Expect your health ins to go up to cover the new mandatory mental health coverage.
FYI.. African witch doctors have the same success rate as psychiatrists.
You are more than welcome to come to my home and talk to my house plant too, I dont charge for the first hour. Very soothing.
You health insurance will cover it as soon as the rate increases go into effect.
Dow is down -27
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