Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

BigPapiforprez08 — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:01:39 GMT

I think Obama needs to reassure working class voters by clearly describing the differences between his policies and those of John McCain. Since Obama and Hillary differ only slightly, this is his greatest chance to show that he is electable. I am one who frankly does not believe that an exit poll showing Obama unable to defeat Clinton amongst the working class means he cannot beat McCain in Nov. With the economy in the tubes, it will be on everyone's mind, and McCain represents a continuance of Bush's failed policies. Issues like Rev. Wright and Snipergate, which in reality are only important in this primary because of the similarities between Clinton and Obama, will become less important when Obama is one on one with the Arizona Sen. So my advice to Obama, wait it out until June, when the superdelegates will be forced to swing to you, don't say anything as dumb as your bitter comments, and hammer home how much better you will be than McCain. He needs to ignore Clinton, all she does is drag him down. In essence, since in my mind he will win the nomination because superdelegates will not overturn the one with the most pledged delegates, Obama should start running a general election style campaign now.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

akhajawall — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:04:20 GMT

Dear Fellow Americans,

Our Great-grand Nation, the United States of America is and will face very critical "Challenges" in coming, months, years and decades.

In my professional opinion the critical characters of next would be our President are summarized as under.

1. Vision and true believe.

2. Character and compassion.

3. Presidential Temperament and Judgment.

4. Past versus future.

The one candidate among the remaining three candidates how meets all these characteristics is Senator Obama.

As an independent registered voter since 1974. I voted for Carter, voted for Reagan, voted for First and second Bush in 2000. Last interest and stopped voting.

This time we can not afford to stay on side lines and Washington stay the same. We can not afford our Greatgreat Nation to become less than what are. I need the sent message to the world, 24 hour corporate media

and minor hateful partisan media to deprive, dupe, and derail us from getting right it this.

The family, fellowship, friends, faith, funds, with freedom and fairness and without fear and favor what is at stake this time. We can do it and I am sure the people of our Greatgrand Nation will do it.

God Bless our Great grand Nation, its diverse people. Our future needs stability, security, safety, and restoration of our due status in this Global World.

yours truly,

COL.[retd] A.M.Khajawall

Forensic Psychiatrist.

Disables American Veteran.

Las Vegas Nevada.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

akhajawall — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:05:03 GMT

Dear Fellow Americans,

Our Great-grand Nation, the United States of America is and will face very critical "Challenges" in coming, months, years and decades.

In my professional opinion the critical characters of next would be our President are summarized as under.

1. Vision and true believe.

2. Character and compassion.

3. Presidential Temperament and Judgment.

4. Past versus future.

The one candidate among the remaining three candidates how meets all these characteristics is Senator Obama.

As an independent registered voter since 1974. I voted for Carter, voted for Reagan, voted for First and second Bush in 2000. Last interest and stopped voting.

and minor hateful partisan media to deprive, dupe, and derail us from getting right it this.

God Bless our Great grand Nation, its diverse people. Our future needs stability, security, safety, and restoration of our due status in this Global World.

yours truly,

COL.[retd] A.M.Khajawall

Forensic Psychiatrist.

Disables American Veteran.

Las Vegas Nevada.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

akhajawall — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:05:04 GMT

Dear Fellow Americans,

Our Great-grand Nation, the United States of America is and will face very critical "Challenges" in coming, months, years and decades.

In my professional opinion the critical characters of next would be our President are summarized as under.

1. Vision and true believe.

2. Character and compassion.

3. Presidential Temperament and Judgment.

4. Past versus future.

The one candidate among the remaining three candidates how meets all these characteristics is Senator Obama.

As an independent registered voter since 1974. I voted for Carter, voted for Reagan, voted for First and second Bush in 2000. Last interest and stopped voting.

and minor hateful partisan media to deprive, dupe, and derail us from getting right it this.

God Bless our Great grand Nation, its diverse people. Our future needs stability, security, safety, and restoration of our due status in this Global World.

yours truly,

COL.[retd] A.M.Khajawall

Forensic Psychiatrist.

Disables American Veteran.

Las Vegas Nevada.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

angelic — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:05:17 GMT

he should amp up his conversation on the economy; health care and iraq. he should be specific with his solutions and time-frames, he should call out clinton and mccain on their summer gas solution, reiterating that it's meant only to secure votes. he should refuse to discuss wright in any great detail anymore, simply saying he's made his thoughts clear on the subject, he disowns any comments made by the reverend, as the rev speaks for himself, not for obama. he should point out without being nasty, that the clinton campaign office continues to be in disarray with on-going in-fighting and sibling rivalry. he should question bill's role if hillary gets the presidency. finally, he should break out all the defectors from the clinton campaign who're now on his team and run a blitz of commercials featuring them discussing why they switched to him, he should have them appear on all the local talk shows in indiana and n.c. and let the voters hear these informed politicians discuss why he's the better candidate. Afterall, none of obama's supporters have crossed sides, they might have backed off a bit, but have not gone to the other camp. that says a lot and the public should be made aware of this.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

mayshays — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:27:23 GMT

Submitted for the approval of the midnight society, here is my analysis. (Note: I am a 26 year-old white male, educated in a state Obama lost by almost 10 points, so, you know, go figure).

Obama needs to get back to where he once belonged, so to speak (write). Obama's bid would never have been possible had he not spoke so eloquently at the 2004 Democratic National Convention. Perhaps he has forgotten about the audacity of hope. Perhaps he should remember it. Soon.

His bid was based on a speech, and Obamanation was built on the bedrock of "Yes We Can" language. I say Obama needs to make more speeches. Call more press conferences. Instead of answering attack adds with short quips and hum-drum parries, he should stand in front of a microphone and offer oratory addressing the issues that underly the smear. Obama has the uncanny ability to turn negative rancor on its' haunches through positive rhetoric, so why not do it? Often. I say when Clinton comes calling with accusations of elitism, Obama should answer with a speech about Class. So on, so forth.

Audaciously.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

mayshays — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:29:03 GMT

Submitted for the approval of the midnight society, here is my analysis. (Note: I am a 26 year-old white male, educated in a state Obama lost by almost 10 points, so, you know, go figure).

Audaciously.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

zbbrox — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:45:55 GMT

I'm another 26-year-old white male educated in a state Obama lost by almost 10 points, and I agree: Obama needs to get out there and talk.

The problems Obama is facing are based on one thing: noise. People aren't losing confidence in him because they're bothered by Jeremiah Wright--recent polls indicated Americans were far more troubled by McCain's association with Bush than by Obama's association with Wright--they're losing confidence in him because they see everyone else losing confidence in him. He looks out of control, and at the mercy of the nattering from the press and the Right Wing.

His campaign looks, from the outside, as though it's in chaos, even though Obama has always had the most clear and focused campaign of all the contenders.

Obama needs to fight all that noise by making speeches. His speech on race was incredibly effective at countering the initial burst of hand-wringing over Wright. He should quit playing it safe, and move back into that mode--the mode of a serious mind talking to Americans about serious issues as though we were adults capable of understanding complex issues.

He shouldn't be afraid of making some big statements, or of being controversial--he has the talent to be controversial while also being *right*, as he was in his race and religion speech, and he should use it now. He needs to talk big and stir things up if he wants to generate the kind of news coverage that'll drown out the endless Wright-Bowling-Bitter nonsense.

The time to sit back and cruise to the nomination is over, the Clinton campaign is going to fight him every step of the way. He's got to be active.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

mkroggasch — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:46:25 GMT

I agree with mayshays. Obama needs to speak more. It seems like every time he is on tv he is defending himself against Hilary Clinton or comments made by Rev. Wright. He needs to speak to the American people about things like health care, the economy, and Iraq.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

Phil Sandifer — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:58:45 GMT

He needs to do a high-profile speech in which he both restates conventional wisdoms about Clinton's campaign (She mathematically can't win, her popular vote argument is nuts) and refutes other conventional wisdoms (His numbers among most of the groups he allegedly has problems with increased from OH to PA in the exit polls, and losing a group of voters to Clinton in a primary is very different from losing them to McCain in a general election - do people really think that young college students and blacks are going to abandon the party if Clinton wins).

He needs to lay out the mathematical and political fact that Clinton's campaign is holding on in the hopes that a disaster will hit and fragment the party. And, in fact, that she's trying to engineer that disaster.

Then he needs to end by saying that he is willing to campaign for as long as it takes, but that all he's seen since Texas and Ohio is a candidate who is trying to pull the party apart. He should point to his fund-raising since February and point out that he could have been using that money to run against John McCain instead of against a fellow Democrat. He should praise Clinton for her service and her campaign, repeat that he'll campaign as long and as hard as it takes, but ask her, point blank, to step aside instead of putting the party through another 30 days of infighting.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

phillip federer — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:59:06 GMT

Please check out "The Truth vs Barack Obama"

http://savagepolitics.com/?p=317

I saw this today, and HAD to share it with everyone. It is just a brilliantly researched and written list of inconsistencies with several of Obama's stories. I think it should be done for ALL three candidates, but I guess this is a good way to start at finally looking at the candidates with some honesty.

http://savagepolitics.com/?p=317

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

Saltydog_0 — Thu, 01 May 2008 17:08:04 GMT

The deal is already sealed. Obama needs to simply act in accordance with his situation. Forget Hillary. Focus on McCain.

To the extent that Hillary is brought before him by the media, he should respond with pity for her and her inability to accept reality, and then turn the focus back to his real opponent, John McCain.

Obama has given Hillary too much respect because it's his nature to be gracious and non-confrontational. He needs to realize that he doesn't have to choose between accommodating and attacking her. Just ignore her the way you would an angry child who tries to get what they want through tantrums. You don't have to hit the child, but you don't have to respond to every cry and twitter either. Just let em waste their energy until they're spent and decide to give it up.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

lmcchesn — Thu, 01 May 2008 17:10:05 GMT

What he needs to do is get out of the way so the electable democrat can take back the WH in November. This is America and there is no way we will ever elect an anti-white, racist anyone. So if you really care about the USA (?????) drop out and let the race really begin.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

elf201 — Thu, 01 May 2008 17:30:21 GMT

He should give one more huge speech like the one he gave in Iowa or NH where people (including me) wept just seeing this young candidate give such a speech, the wonderful picture of him overcoming the difficulties of his background and bubbling up to the top. I know people who touched their TV screens, stood up from their couches, cheered and blew him kisses. Bring us back that transcendent man, even just a glimpse... we realize that he's been distracted and mocked for giving such speeches. We NEED to know that despite all the storms he has to get through (he's visibly tired and aged), he is still that transcendent and hope-filled persona.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

Faddy — Thu, 01 May 2008 17:48:26 GMT

As a dyed in the wool redneck with leftist proclivities, I may not be the best feller to make a suggestion on this here blog.

But, Obama needs to go back to the basics ... stand tall ... tell it like it is ... and do what he does best. My son (the one who named me, the one I never had because F N MacMough is a pseudonym) was moved to almost tears at Obama's convention speech ... and that is saying a lot.

I enjoy the heck out of good speeches of the sort that Obama is capable of ... even if you don't agree with every point or comma placement (or you are a pundit looking for some distractive bit to make you look soo smart) the man does trust us to use our brains. He invites us to work together. He says WE should work for the common good (unlike his opposition who takes the position that S/he McHillary will fix it for us poor dumb slobs) and he makes a lot of sense.

Playing the 'gotcha' game in what passes for debates is something to avoid ... he doesn't do well at it because he (rightfully) sees it as rather silly and generally divisive. Obama is better than that.

I for one (and I suspect there are a huge number of others who feel this way) am sick and tired on not voting for president because I refuse to vote for a candidate I really do not believe in. The idea that we should vote for the lesser of evils means we still have evil governance. I suspect it is time that we americans should stand up and be counted as NOT wanting any more evil in government.

Faddy

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

jaybs — Thu, 01 May 2008 18:31:31 GMT

Senator Barack Obama has obtained more endorsement today, the words and thoughts of former Democratic Chairman Joe J Andrews in changing his endorsement from Hillary to Barack Obama clearly echoed the thought and feelings of so many Democrats and voters .

However the media may keep trying to portray Barack Obama and his campaign, the truth is the lead Hillary holds now in the delegate count is down to just 18 and in a matter of days will be in single digits, these endorsement are following the Mandate of the Voters and attempting to stop the destruction of The Party by one candidate with the negative campaigning and accepting reality.

What is needed before Tuesday is for such as John Edwards and Al Gore to come out and fully endorse Barack Obama it would be even better if Hillary would put our great Country and her Party first before ambition and also fully unconditionally back and endorse Barack Obama now without delay, then she will retain some respect and we can prepare to defeat McCain and take back The White Office in November - The Democratic Party has to Unite.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

amosje — Thu, 01 May 2008 18:32:43 GMT

As a middle-road conservative, I have weighed the issues and characters of the right and the left with a lot of attention since the primaries began, always with an eye to the possibility of steering the nation away from the embarassments and tragedies and ethical collapses that have marked us as planetary pariahs for the last eight to sixteen years.

What Obama has repeatedly demonstrated is the mettle and the clarity of sight to see the large picture and get it told as it is, with eloquece. He has served as an educator on right conduct over and over again. He has not been without flaws, but his flaws relative to his merits are enough to make any other candidate shrivel in comparison. He should not get out of the way. He should stand up and define the way. What he does best is provide people with perspective and genuine values, which shakes them free of the hypnotic noide and chatter of the degraded Fourth Estate and the nabobbery of politicos looking for gnats to fight.

He needs to find the breathing room to answer for imself the question of what he thinks the United States needs to be told, and the space and time to stand up and tell it.

AHJ

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

thisniss — Thu, 01 May 2008 19:00:11 GMT

Like others here, I would like to see Obama give another big policy speech. Personally, I think he should go into "enemy territory" like Kentucky or West Virginia to talk about environmental policy, energy, and the economy. Appalachia is the third world in this country, and it is one of the places where Obama's policies could do the most good. It is also, ironically, the least friendly area for him politically. He needs to get in there and explain how his proposals are genuinely different from those of his rivals. He needs to approach the folks most deeply suspicious of his "foreignness" with the same even-handed, open-hearted appeals that have won him support in places like the midwest and the deep South. To go onto the doorstep of King Coal and talk about his proposals for green jobs would show off his intelligence, his guts, and his willingness to tell the hard truths that most politicians avoid. These are the things his supporters like about him. And while it might not win him the primaries in Kentucky and West Virginia, it could certainly help him "seal the deal" in other places.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

drmats — Thu, 01 May 2008 19:03:25 GMT

One again another true American showed the courage to stand up and raised his voice in this historic time. Thank you Joe Andrew, u are the real American once again, loudly says, we don't want to our future to in peril.

All this lobbyist, big corporate in Washington are use their money power, and media support to distract average people from the real issues we are facing

They want Obama to be out from race coz, they always want to their greedy interest to make money and power by imposing hard ships in 99.9% Americans here

look around the real facts , we are losing jobs every day, we borrowing Chinese money and spending for oil and war , our kids are dropping from school , majority Americans suffering without health care even people with insurance , how much money these drug companies are staling and this corporate medical lobbies

am a doctor , I can see a lot , lot people , with so much illness , not taking any medication or abusing with over the counter , non prescription meds , who is responsible for this , we suffering in the world’s richest , mighty nation and less than 1% populated politicians’ and lobbyist enjoying all the benefits in our country

They want Obama to be not president they want either Hillary or McCain to be next president, coz both are part of their stakes.

Both just faking the truth and facts, and just want to president and want more rich

How many people know how much their income , John maccians wife is has share in profits of Budweiser bear company , Clintons made 109 $ mill9ons last 6 yrs BY “ PREACIHING” around the world

These are the issues we have to open our eyes to see , how our future will be, if we are in dept, our kids don’t go school and college, our industries dying, paying millions for oil , other countries like India and china are growing in every field . Not a Psycho Jermaya right , or wearing a pin , is our issue,

I don’t say Obama is perfect, he never be, no one in our country too, but I strongly believe, lot of open heart people love our country , love our grandparents, parents and our kids , and uphold our values , will stood up and start this movement and says enough is enough , we need a leader ship once again , lead our country as the leader of the world to solve all our problems, and rest of the worlds survival.

Yesterday, how many watch Michele moor, talking in CNN, he is he is a true American, shows courage to talk loudly the truth . plz watch that interview if u have chance,

I pray every day plz God, keep him (OBAMA) safe and give courage to fight against all these distractions haunting him from all sides, I was Hillary supporter, coz I like Bills time, but now they are really revealed How ridiculous politicians they are to d the same old damage to our country

Did any media discussing my republican and maccain attacking Obama only , not Clinton, they want her to be the nominee , and not Obama, coz they know all people will rally behind him when he get nomination, so now they pending all their , ways to defeat him and look for an easy win against Hillary

Any way propagate the message of real fact among all fellow Americans not fall in this cheating taps , look around and see the real fact and vote , for Obama, Indiana and North Carolina we are looking forward to your courage to raise ur voice and end this drama and distraction and march forward to our bright future

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

Over 60 Women's Libber for Obama — Thu, 01 May 2008 19:21:04 GMT

Obama needs to get his mojo back. He appears disheartened and unfocused. He is unbeatable when he speaks strongly from his heart and mind. He should get some rest, smoke a cigarette if he has to, but should dig down and bring forth the brilliance that has motivated so many to get involved. Remind the voters that he is no elitist and choose to utilize his prestigious education to address social issues in Chicago's South Side rather than cash it in for big Wall Street bucks. This speak volumes as to what his actual values are - he walks to talk. If he needs any reassurance to revive his confidence in the face of the onslaught of sludge raining down on him by his opponents and the media, look to the number of citizens he has energized and the thousands of small donors who believe in him. Bring back the Obama razzle-dazzle. After the dismal clouds that have hung over this country for the past eight years, there appeared to be a light in the distance. Now, is the time, to SHINE!!!

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

powin — Thu, 01 May 2008 19:56:17 GMT

Jack3213 WROTE: "WHO [EVER] FAVORS INTELLIGENCE, CREDIBILITY, AND EXPERIANCE? --THOSE WHO FAVOR MCCAIN.... FOR THOSE WHO BELIEVE THINGS WILL "CHANGE" --DAY ONE-- IF A DEMOCRAT WERE ELECTED SHOULD KNOW THAT WITH A DEMOCRAT DAY ONE MIGHT CHANGE SOMETHING AND THAT SOMETHING IS: HIGHER TAXES, GREATER SECURITY RISK, UNACCEPTABLE HEALTH INSURANCE, AND A WEAKER ECONOMY"

Dear Jack3213,

It's obvious that Change in the economy, health care coverage, homeland security and the tax code will not happen on day one. That's indisputable. What is also indisputable is that Senator McCain is intelligent and experienced; he is, and so are his democratic opponents, Senators Clinton and Obama, alike. The credibility of anyone running for office, however, including John McCain, is speculative, at best. If a democrat is elected (and Senator McCain is not allowed to follow in the footsteps of his predecessor), your drawn conclusion that a weaker economy will follow is rash and reflects your own insecurity. No economist, Milton Friedman, included, can augur or foretell this from an election. That nearly 50 million Americans have no health care coverage is already unacceptable. Voters are not privy to Homeland Security, so your prediction, on that matter is weak and of little or no practical value. Any drawn conclusions, humble or immodest, are burdened by misanthropic musings and made obscured by character assassination.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

jonstorm — Thu, 01 May 2008 20:26:09 GMT

The most honorable think Barack Obama could do would be to explain that Wright was there at the beginning of his carreer and that now even though he didn't need Wright anymore he didn't want to seem like he was turning his back on the brother. Wright who claims to be ritired apparently cannot stop giving sermons and has now come back to haunt him. Obama could explain that this has happened to almost everyone is in the habit of giving people the benefit of the doubt. It comes with being a "glass is half full" kind of person.

Doing this would of course force Obama to admit that his judgment is not perfect. That would be a problem because this entire campaign is based on his position that his judgment is superior to his rival Senator Clinton. Right now people looking for an excuse not to vote for Obama can say, "he is a little wet behind the ears" and this thing with Wright gives them a Exhibit A.

In this case Senator Obama, "only the truth shall set you free"

1. You will have to admit that you showed poor judgement. You will have to admit that you tried to straddle the fence, playing the game to keep both black votes and draw white votes. Admit that there is bigotry and animosity on both sides but insist that we must all make a constant and concious effort to rise above it.

2. Then you must tell the American people that you believe in an America that is better than that and then ask them to sacrifice with you to change this country for the better.

3. Then you must tell them that Hillary Clinton is the most qualified person to defeat John McCain and has the best plan to set to the task of fixing this broken government. Admit that you need time to learn more about yourself and the electorate and offer to learn from Mrs. Clinton. I am sure she will be gracious enough to offer you a spot on the ticket as VP. Then as President of the Senate you will have ample time and opportunity to introduce the profound legislation that you have lined up to bring about the "change we can believe in."

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

ajironworks4usa — Thu, 01 May 2008 20:26:41 GMT

A Fair question to ask the Hillary Campaign is would they use the Pardon Executive Order to Get out of this Mess of Campaign Finance fraud with Peter F Paul , thats got Bill and Chelsea involved as well , I Mean the question is fair just how far one is willing to push to get Elected with the stakes so high wouldn't this be a question of Qualification for the Office of Presidency above all the other Conflicts of interest ??????????????

Hillary needs the Presidency at all costs to pardon her self and everyone involved in the trial in Clinton fraud case , and given the relationship the Clintons have had with the Rev Wright in the past , it is possible Rev Wright made deal with them to bury Obama , to get the Nomination , if this happens , then what does Peter F Paul have

U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

www.sec.gov/litigation/litreleases/lr18828.htm

Litigation Release No. 18828 / August 11, 2004

Securities and Exchange Commission v. Peter F. Paul, Stephen M. Gordon, and Jeffrey L. Pittsburg, Case No. CV 04-6613 SVW (SSx) (C.D. Cal.)

Subject: Hillary needs the Presidency at all costs to pardon her self and everyone involved in the trial in Clinton fraud case , and I bet Rev Wright made deal with them to bury Obama , to get the Nomination , if this happens , then what does Peter F Paul have ?

Hillary needs the Presidency at all costs to pardon her self and everyone involved in the trial in Clinton fraud case , and I bet Rev Wright made deal with them to bury Obama , to get the Nomination , if this happens , then what does Peter F Paul have ? www.worldnetdaily.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=57009

www.worldnetdaily.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=56868

While Hillary Clinton battles Barack Obama on the campaign trail, a judge in Los Angeles is quietly preparing to set a trial date in a $17 million fraud suit that aims to expose an alleged culture of widespread corruption by the Clintons and the Democratic Party.

At the conclusion of a hearing tomorrow morning before California Superior Court Judge Aurelio N. Munoz, lawyers for Hollywood mogul Peter F. Paul will begin seeking sworn testimony from all three Clintons – Bill, Hillary and Chelsea – along with top Democratic Party leaders and A-list celebrities, including Barbra Streisand, John Travolta, Brad Pitt and Cher.

Paul's team hopes for a trial in October. The Clintons' longtime lawyer David Kendall, who will attend the hearing, has declined comment on the suit.

The Clintons have tried to dismiss the case, but the California Supreme Court, in 2004, upheld a lower-court decision to deny the motion.

www.truthabouttrinity.blogspot.com/2008/03/my-pastor-has-represented-us-well.html

images.politico.com/global/clinton91198sked.jpg

The recent coverage of Rev. Jeremiah Wright has often cast him as a marginal, almost fringe figure, but Trinity Church is a major Chicago institution, and Wright has long been a prominent pastor on the American scene.

And an anonymous blog set up to defend his church offers some compelling photographic evidence of this: A photograph of Wright and President Clinton, which it says was taken on Sept. 11, 1998 — the date of a White House gathering for religious leaders.

[UPDATE: The blog seems to have taken that item down; here's the full image that was posted.]

Hillary Clinton, according to her recently released schedule for the day, was present at the gathering. Al Gore also appears in the picture.

ELECTION 2008

Judge delays setting trial in Clinton fraud case

But accuser begins seeking sworn testimony from high-profile witnesses

www.worldnetdaily.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=57009

Subject: Are the Clintons and Rev Wright still close enough to work together to wipe out Barack Obama ??????

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

BankieJoe — Thu, 01 May 2008 20:28:59 GMT

I agree with everyone that said Senator Obama needs to get out more. I saw a clip of the Town Hall meeting on he had with folk in NC (not sure) and it was very refreshing to see the human side of both him and Michell. This is what he'd have to do as a president, he he better start getting used to it now.

On the Rev. Jeremiah Wright issue, I think it's a blessing in disguise that the blow up happened because now a line has been drawn and it's beginning to seem more like the Old versus the New. If Jeremiah Wright secretely believed that Obama will advance his causes and sentiments as president, then he'd be doing all he can to promote his candidacy. The fact that he did what he did in trying to embarras and discredit him in public, tells me he's not interested in seeing Obama become president. Why? Because he (Obama) is not like him or doesn't think like him. Obama is the New; Rev Wright is the Old. You cannot move on to the future as long as you hold on to the past. Another thing the "coming out" of Rev. Wright did was to shut up the likes of Senator Clinton. She was going to ride that issue like crazy, but now it's somewhat an untouchable. If she tries, she'd be seen as a bully kicking against her comrade while he's down and wounded; it would back-fire on her.

What was the question again? How should Obama Seal the deal? OK, in addition to making more speeches and talking to more people, he should also come out and explain why he was at Rev Wright's church for the past 20 years. Quite a number of Americans don't understand why folk go to church. They think it's just to hear the sermon. For some the church has in it the only social network they have; for others it's that avenue afforded them to serve; yet, there are those that go there just so they have a "faith" that their children can follow, so you only see them when there are significan life events such as a baptism, baby dedication or funeral etc. Senator Obama needs to come out and bare it all out why he went and stuck with United Trinity for such a long time. For all we know, it might just be a church with which he's loosely affiliated but had to use to show himself as a person of "deep faith" (something I doubt), so as to appeal to the Religious right or increasingly influential evangelical block of the political spectrum.

In conclusion, Senator Obama needs to give full disclosure so issue can be put to rest in the minds of Americans. While this is no silver bullet, it will help seal the deal... i think.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

mia33133 — Thu, 01 May 2008 20:35:59 GMT

Andrew,

I'll take you up on the challenge, but before I give you my strategy let me warn you that the sentence in your blog "Should Obama go for broke in Bubba-rich West Virginia and Kentucky?" was out of place. You could have conveyed the same message with less pejorative language. This kind of characterization could provide your own problematic nettlesome reemergence as your life and career moves forward.

Here's my advice to BHO: Take the high road. Don't strike back at all of Hillary's jabs. Get your subordinates to underscore that Wright has become an attention-seeking megalomaniac - make him seem as far out on the fringe as possible (he's doing a good job of that himself). Distinguish between the Wright you knew before and the one out there today. Drill down deeply on "high road" difficult decisions, like opposing the temporary gas tax cut. Prove once again that you are willing to take a difficult stand while your opponents take flagrantly politically expedient positions.

Above all, appear presidential - take the high road.

Finally, repeat the speeches and build again on the rhetoric that made you popular in the first place.

Eventually the cream will rise to the top and you'll prevail.

-David

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

temar007 — Thu, 01 May 2008 22:16:56 GMT

Andrew,

First, I will say that I read Stumper everyday. It's quite refreshing in the current, "let's keep this going any way we can so there is a brokered convention, which will producer high rating, so we can sell millions of dollars in ad buys," media climate we are currently in.

My advice to Obama is, do what you're doing. You have been dignified and honorable during this horrible circus of a campaign, even during your lowest moments. The truth of the matter is, Clinton cannot win the elected delegates race, which despite all the chatter is the only thing that matters. Let the rest of these races play out the way they are going to play out, which will not change the delegate math. You can weather the media storm about loses and closing the deal. Your focus should be on the superdelegates and here is what your argument to superdelegates, behind the scenes, should be;

If you overturn the elected delegates in the race, the vast majority of new voters, young voters, and especially black voters WILL NOT SHOW UP. A democrat has not, in modern history, won the White House with a majority of white blue-collar voters. It is energized youth and black voters that puts and will put the Democrat over the top. If you deny the first African-American candidate the nomination, when he played by the rules and won it fair and square. - You will LOSE, for the forseeable future, the Democratic parties most loyal base - Youths and Blacks (especially blacks.) And without them, Hillary Clinton cannot and will not win the White House.

It could very well be a momentum-free superdelegate victory. But it will be just that - a victory. And if anybody could get a huge tide-turning bounce out of an EARTH-SHATTERINGLY AMAZING convention speech. It's Barack Obama.

- Temar

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

Mike in Sac — Thu, 01 May 2008 23:37:33 GMT

OK, take on McCain. Beat him with a dead Bush. Fight and get tough. Run serious TV ads and take him on with real conviction. You have to show you are ready to battle. Be strong and resolute as a Commander in Chief would act.

Turn to supporters and get them to write letters to all of the uncommitted superdelegates for which they are constituents.

Have set and scheduled days where your supporters all are asked to get together visit these superdelegates office togethers. Having a few hundred people show up on their door step would get their attention.

Wear jeans on the days you aren't speaking to crowds. Getting seen looking like the average guy would not be so bad once in a while. You need to cultivate that Poker playing image and invite all of the media to your place for your famous chili.

Playing more ball with college teams would help, but how about you have some exhibition games. Get some of your supporters together who play and challenge McCain to a game. That would be great! If he won't accept, which he won't, then just have a game with the local college team. Bet you'd get air time!

You need to define yourself so do that. But get onto the channels watched by the old folks. PBS and the History Channel would be good for a start. You need to start getting into that demographic and define who you are.

Hmm.. I could go on so maybe I have missed my calling. I am looking for work :)

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

herfan — Fri, 02 May 2008 00:31:26 GMT

DEBATE! DEBATE!! DEBATE!!!

It's time for everyone to face the truth. Barack Obama has no real chance of winning the national election in November at this time. His crushing defeat in Pennsylvania makes that fact crystal clear. His best, and only real chance of winning in November is on a ticket with Hillary Clinton as her VP.

Hillary Clinton seemed almost somber at her Pennsylvania victory speech. As if part of her was hoping Obama could have proved he had some chance of winning against the republican attack machine, and their unlimited money, and resources.

But it is absolutely essential that the democrats take back the Whitehouse in November. America, and the American people are in a very desperate condition now. And the whole World has been doing all that they can to help keep us propped up.

Hillary Clinton say's that the heat, and decisions in the Whitehouse are much tougher than the ones on the campaign trail. But I think Mr. Obama faces a test of whether he has what it takes to be a commander and chief by facing the difficult facts, and the truth before him. And by doing what is best for the American people by dropping out of the race, and offering his whole hearted assistance to Hillary Clinton to help her take back the Whitehouse for the American people, and the World.

Mr. Obama is a great speaker. And I am confident he can explain to the American people the need, and wisdom of such a personal sacrifice for them. It should be clear to everyone by now that Hillary Clinton is fighting her heart out for the American people. She has known for a long time that Mr. Obama can not win this November. You have to remember that the Clinton's have won the Whitehouse twice before. They know what it takes.

If Mr. Obama fails his test of commander and chief we can only hope that Hillary Clinton can continue her heroic fight for the American people. And that she prevails. She will need all the continual support and help we can give her. She may fight like a superhuman. But she is only human.

Sen. Hillary Clinton: "You know, more people have now voted for me than have voted for my opponent. In fact, I now have more votes than anybody has ever had in a primary contest for a nomination. And it's also clear that we've got nine more important contests to go."

Sincerely

Jacksmith... Working Class :-)

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

revolved — Fri, 02 May 2008 01:08:31 GMT

1. Now that he's separated himself from Rev. Wright, Obama needs to get above the noise of that issue and talk about anything and everything but that. A couple of good stump speeches per day and maybe one big speech like the race one and he'll be back on track.

2. Obama needs to regain the appearance of loosening up and enjoying being out on the campaign trail. People are attracted to someone who is happy and having fun, not scowling and irritated.

3. Obama should ignore Hillary and illustrate how he will take on McCain in November.

4. Keep rolling out the superdelegate endorsements. Don't hold them until after next Tuesday. Roll out as many as possible immediately.

5. Release recent fundraising numbers immediately.

6. Do, roll-out or announce something unexpected. Put the BAM! back in OBAMA!

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

mjno — Fri, 02 May 2008 01:48:32 GMT

By The Denver Post

Article Last Updated: 04/30/2008 08:27:57 PM MDT

Just six weeks ago, Sen. Barack Obama said he could no more disown his former pastor than he could disown his own white grandmother.

Until, of course, he did.

Obama finally (and firmly) disavowed the controversial Rev. Jeremiah Wright this week. But the moment came only after sensing his presidential bid could be undone by the simmering controversy.

In March, in his eloquent speech on race in America, Obama defended his pastor as a man of otherwise good deeds. While poignant, his original defense of a man he's known for two decades made Tuesday's political stiff- arm reek of desperation politics.

Obama's handling of this mess not only calls into question his judgment, but eventually could strike at the core of whether he's fit to be president.

As late as Monday, after Wright again suggested the U.S. government invented AIDS to eliminate minorities and defended the bigotry of Louis Farrakhan, Obama seemed to shrug it off. But by Tuesday, after video of Wright's new rants played in what seemed like an endless loop on 24-hour news channels, Obama the politician finally emerged.

"The insensitivity and the outrageousness of the statements shocked me and surprised me," Obama said. Wright's rants, he continued, contradict "everything that I'm about and who I am. . . . The person I saw yesterday was not the person that I met 20 years ago."

Does Obama really expect Americans to believe that it was Wright, and not the prevailing political winds, that changed overnight?

He could have diffused the situation had he been more straightforward at the very beginning. Instead, the senator has struggled to explain away his relationship with Wright for months, and it's only raised more questions for voters about who Obama surrounds himself with and who might have his ear as president.

Both Obama and Wright have dismissed the notion that the reverend was his "spiritual mentor." Yet Wright officiated at Obama's wedding, baptized his two children, and one of his sermons inspired the title of his book, "The Audacity of Hope." Knowing the fiery reverend was a political liability, the senator uninvited him from the official launch of his presidential campaign. Yet he prayed privately with him moments before his announcement.

Now we're supposed to actually believe that Obama was surprised by Wright's views?

This dust-up got personal Monday when Wright implied Obama quietly believes in Wright's views and suggested that Obama's speech on race last month was nothing but politics.

Obama, trying to win over some of the white, working-class voters who have been casting their ballots for Hillary Clinton, was just doing what politicians do, Wright said.

The senator may not have been doing what politicians do with his artful speech on race last month. But when Obama tossed his one-time friend under the bus Tuesday, he was definitely doing what politicians do.

Our parents teach us at an early age that we will be judged by the company we keep. That's true in life, but especially in politics.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

venaru — Fri, 02 May 2008 02:04:48 GMT

7 Things That Obama Should Do

by venaru

The qualities that inspire individuals are often intangible, but the end result is that the ‘inspirer’ and ‘inspiree’ are often ‘lifted’ and bring out the ‘better’ in each other. Obama has succeeded in sparking the imagination of the youth and the young at heart with an inspirational promise. This has lifted him above the fray of the 2008 presidential candidates. But inspirational promise is NOT sufficient, especially if you are hoping to be the leader of the most powerful nation on the planet.

All the issues that are now stalling his campaign would have come up with or without Hillary Clinton. He is lucky to be able to address them with a sympathetic audience, rather than in the un-enamored and hostile Republican playing field. He is fortunate that he has so many people that want to believe in him: The Black people - who probably have not seen a candidate with so much potential, a significant portion of white people, the youth – that in itself has been the magic of this season, to have a candidate that can inspire and engage them. The exuberant youth vote should be used to counter the section of the population that simply will not vote for him because he is bi-racial. What is even more unusual is the support he has received from so many of the seasoned politicians of the Democratic Party; not to mention the Press. So having already reached where he has already, as Ron Fournier said, “the race is Obama’s to lose.” Here’s how Obama can close the deal.

1) Obama needs to transform the amorphous inspirational quality into a tangible reality of actions and results. He has convinced a majority of people and certainly his supporters of his sound “foundation” as an intelligent, reasonable person. He now has to build a “structure” that people can believe, will be strong, secure and open.

2) Learn from Hillary and fight. It is not enough to say that he expects negative attacks and rationalize about it. Using one of the several metaphors in this campaign of the boxing ring, he IS in the ring until the opponent is down, and Hillary is by NO MEANS down. He can’t be philosophizing about the process while he is inside the ring and taking punches. He needs to take care of the business of knocking his opponent out of the round. His needs to apply his philosophy of “it is not about me or my ego” and take the best idea in the room even if it is his opponent’s. By not doing so, he is denying himself an opportunity to transform himself.

3) He should

• effectively counter attacks

• strengthen his message AND

• contrast his positives against his opponents’ negatives, and do ALL these in the same sentence!

4) He needs to address his Pastor issue – it will not go away. He needs to emphatically reject and denounce his pastor’s extreme rhetoric. He should not get defensive and peevish about it. He should acknowledge it as many times as he is asked – patiently but firmly and point out that Rev. Wright is not running for President, but Obama is and that he does not agree with what Rev Wright said nor does he agree with guilt by association. And when opportunity presents itself, draw attention to the Republicans and Hillary Clinton who have had associations with controversial people, events. He needs to keep this message SIMPLE and on target every time.

5) He needs to rest questions about his or his wife’s patriotism. If wearing a flag pin will convince an undecided voter, he should. A picture is worth a thousand words, and he is having to counter a lot of “negative pictures” and use a LOT of words to defend himself.

6) He should use every negative attack as an opportunity for him to counter it and inform the public about his policy details. Hillary Clinton has been very effective in doing this.

7) The sharpest knife dulls with repeated use. He needs to continually look for ways to sharpen and enrich his message.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

austria2 — Fri, 02 May 2008 02:06:19 GMT

What? After 20 years of relationship, then a short of time of confession of sins last Tuesday, you mean everything is forgiven and Obama is clean as white now? On TV, I did not see expression of anger in his face and his voice when he answered back at Wright. Low tone and dull. If you want to see him really angry, look at him when he criticized Hillary for talking like Annie Oakley. Real anger was shown in his face and his voice. In another video clip, he even raised his middle finger when he talked of Hillary. But still, his supporters applauded.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

Chapalody — Fri, 02 May 2008 02:28:16 GMT

Obama's not running against Hillary. Thats been the problem all along. Obama is running against talk radio and Fox news. When did Hillary ever say a word about Reverend Wright? She didn't until talk radio and Fox news did. Hillary has taken a back seat to talk radio and Fox news. Hillary won't say a word about anything until talk radio and Fox news airs it first. Obama has to make the people see that Hillary wouldn't have gotten past Ohio or Texas had it not been for the crossover votes. Hillary wouldn't have survived this long had it not been for the constant attacks on Obama by talk radio and Fox news. Obama needs to go on the O'Reilly show and confront his attackers once and for all. Obama needs to be the one asking the questions and not bowing to demands that he explain point by point everything Reverend Wright has said. Obama has to take the reins and ride the backs of talk radio and Fox news the way they have ridden him. Obama needs to tell his party that it's talk radio and Fox news who are Conservatives, that are telling Democrats who their nominee is going to be. Talk radio and Fox news have nominated Hillary as the Democrat nominee and the Democrats have nothing to say about it.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

votenic — Fri, 02 May 2008 03:31:40 GMT

2008 Presidential Election Weekly Poll

http://www.votenic.com

Come Enter To Win In The votenic T-Shirt Sweepstakes!

votenic, The Only Poll That Matters.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

jlynne — Fri, 02 May 2008 05:04:41 GMT

The best thing for Obama would be for his IL records to suddenly reappear and for newspapers to parse them like newspapers parsed Senator Clinton's First Lady papers. That way people could get a long term view of Obama's actions not just his words.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

yupik1 — Fri, 02 May 2008 09:22:45 GMT

If I were Obama, I would surprise Hillary at one of her stump locations and have a talk with her in front of her supporters and give Hillary another $65 to completely fill-up that pickup she only filled halfway. THAT would be a BOLD move! Maybe even a stop at a 7-Eleven and show off his knowledge of a coffee dispenser.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

jonstorm — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:02:29 GMT

The most honorable thing that Barack Obama can do now is to tell his supporters the truth. He must tell them that Hillary Clinton is the most qualified person to defeat John McCain and has the best plan to set to the task of fixing this broken government. He must admit that he needs time to learn more about himself and the electorate and offer to learn from Mrs. Clinton. I am sure she will be gracious enough to him you a spot on the ticket as VP. Then as President of the Senate he will have ample time and opportunity to introduce the profound legislation that you have lined up to bring about the "change we can believe in." As of now we have only promises which will not be kept if McCain get elected

P.S. I counted 10 Articles with Barack Obama's name on Newsweek's homepage and 1 article on Hillary Clinton. 10-1 coverage. Fox News is more fair and balanced than that. Methinks there will be plenty of wringing the hands and gnashing the teeth at Newsweek when "checkmate" comes for Obama.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

rato — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:35:47 GMT

1. Dominate the news with content, not just events, so we are not simply waiting for the next poll. How about a 5-point plan for job creation/retention, a strategy to keep gas prizes in check - and keep it simple and memorable. We all know its complex and we know that he knows that but we crave a simple answer. Besides, after seven years of W we are even less able to think in paragraphs, only in fragments of sentences.

2. Ironically it may be good to see him next to some of the faces that we associate with the conomic prosperity under Bill. So have for example Robert Reich at his side when presenting the job-creation plan.

3. Let him go to 60 minutes and talk about which fast food he can't say no to. I already know he is brilliant - now I want to know he is like me.

4. Make a surprise visit to Iraq and play basketball with the troops.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

tv123 — Fri, 02 May 2008 20:58:36 GMT

1. Two words -- RACHEL RAY! Loved the Rachel Ray interview -- it spoke to women and average people! More pieces like that, please. Let us get to know your family more, your extended family, your friends, your home, etc.

2. SPECIFICS. Give us your 4-point plan on the economy, a 3-point plan for getting us out of Irag, the first 3 things you plan to do when you get to the White House. We k now these are complex issues but as a result of the 24-hr news cycle, the American people can only mostly hear soundbites.

3. Use your supporters more -- Lee Hamilton, Daschle, Dodd, Kennedy, Reich, Scabelli, Pena, etc. Have them appear on all the news & cable shows to tout why they support you.

re: Pop Quiz, Hotshot: How Should Obama Seal the Deal?

beatpanda — Sat, 03 May 2008 09:12:14 GMT

Make this primary about the DNC vs. the DLC, very, very explicitly.

Expose Hillary Clinton for the corporatist Democrat she is.

It's not even that hard.