Governor Palin visited Ohio trying to rally the state for the upcoming election. With just twelve days left in this campaign Ohio could play a vital role in who becomes the next president of the United States of America. Governor Palin called for change especially in the economy. “We need someone with bold and fair plans”, said Palin.
With Senator McCain’s plan, people will be able to keep their homes and retirees will be able to keep their investments and savings. “We will put this economy back on track,” said Palin. They plan to do this by tax relief to every American, especially for small businesses. Getting small businesses going will provide a great jump start for or economy and start it back in the right direction. This is in response to Obama’s “joe the plumer” controversy. They believe small businesses will create many jobs and get the economy back on track. McCain and Palin will lower income taxes while increasing child tax deductions.
Governor Palin ended the speech by stating, “ Ohio, will you hire us?”.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
McCain's Campaign on the Edge of Destruction
Things just don’t seem to be going John McCain’s way these days. Yesterday, the news was covered in embarrassing stories of his campaign advisors not getting along with Governor Palin (further detailed in ” Palin going Rogue” below), John McCain’s brother calling 911 to complain about traffic, and cursing at them nonetheless, and Sarah Palin getting called out on the importance of fruit fly research after she downplayed it in a speech.
As far as the campaign, it was reported that the highest paid member of John McCain’s staff made $22,000 in only two weeks. This was not his economic advisor, nor his foreign policy advisor, but Sarah Palin’s make-up artist. The make-up artist won an Emmy for her work on So You Think You Can Dance, and is obviously the most important employee of the campaign at this point.
Other expenditures reported by the McCain campaign included the wardrobe for Palin from the Republican National Convention. When questioned about the prices, Sarah Palin said that the numbers couldn’t be right, and that she also did not get to keep them. This all comes on the same day in which Sarah Palin gave her deposition on the trooper case, and the campaign launches what has been called the most controversial campaign ad since the “Daisy” ad.
As far as the campaign, it was reported that the highest paid member of John McCain’s staff made $22,000 in only two weeks. This was not his economic advisor, nor his foreign policy advisor, but Sarah Palin’s make-up artist. The make-up artist won an Emmy for her work on So You Think You Can Dance, and is obviously the most important employee of the campaign at this point.
Other expenditures reported by the McCain campaign included the wardrobe for Palin from the Republican National Convention. When questioned about the prices, Sarah Palin said that the numbers couldn’t be right, and that she also did not get to keep them. This all comes on the same day in which Sarah Palin gave her deposition on the trooper case, and the campaign launches what has been called the most controversial campaign ad since the “Daisy” ad.
Can anything give McCain the boost he needs?
Throughout these closing weeks leading up to the campaign, tensions between the campaigns have heightened to an intense level, the negativity and attack ads are through the roof, and most polls shows John McCain trailing behind Barack Obama by a fairly large margin. While his numbers have been falling and the debates have failed to give him the boost he needs, McCain has been trying several other tactics to try and shed a negative light on Obama. He has specifically highlighted Obama’s connections with individuals like Ayres and Organizations like ACORN, as well as never ceasing to highlight Obama’s inexperience.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/10/25/AR2008102502003.html?hpid=topnews
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/10/25/mccain-dont-write-us-off-yet/
Republicans set back by courts
The Republicans have been requesting that courts investigate the record number of new registered Democrats. However, voting rights activists are concerned that thousands of legitimate voters could be disqualified in the process. Recently though, judged have ruled against Republican challenges in major battleground states.
On Friday, the White House required the Department of Justice to investigated 200,000 Ohio voters.
The discrepancies are mostly due to the use of nicknames on voter registration or typos in databases. Some say the main reason that so many new registered voters are being investigated is that larger turnout would help the Democrats.
The McCain campaign is currently in a struggle with ACORN (Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now) which is under investigation for fraudulent voter registration.
On Friday, the White House required the Department of Justice to investigated 200,000 Ohio voters.
The discrepancies are mostly due to the use of nicknames on voter registration or typos in databases. Some say the main reason that so many new registered voters are being investigated is that larger turnout would help the Democrats.
The McCain campaign is currently in a struggle with ACORN (Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now) which is under investigation for fraudulent voter registration.
Manning the Helm
The Republican National Committee released a TV ad today questioning the ability of Obama to lead our country in the midst of a storm. It is supposed to run in target states. This is the narration for the ad:
Narrator: "We choose Presidents to lead us through uncertain times -rely on their background and experience to guide us. Some now say this storm cannot get worse. Our nation is so off course that Barack Obama’s quick rise to power and inexperience should not matter. But what if the storm does get worse? With someone who’s untested at the helm."
This is a negative ad that serves to question McCain's opponent. It is a very dark advertisement, and it features choppy waves that get higher and stormier throughout the narration. The music is foreboding and fearful with the sounds of rough waves in the background. It employs fear tactics by suggesting that the "storm" might get worse. The ad never explicitly states what the storm actually is, but it likely refers to the economy.
http://hotlineblog.nationaljournal.com/archives/2008/10/storm.html
Narrator: "We choose Presidents to lead us through uncertain times -rely on their background and experience to guide us. Some now say this storm cannot get worse. Our nation is so off course that Barack Obama’s quick rise to power and inexperience should not matter. But what if the storm does get worse? With someone who’s untested at the helm."
This is a negative ad that serves to question McCain's opponent. It is a very dark advertisement, and it features choppy waves that get higher and stormier throughout the narration. The music is foreboding and fearful with the sounds of rough waves in the background. It employs fear tactics by suggesting that the "storm" might get worse. The ad never explicitly states what the storm actually is, but it likely refers to the economy.
http://hotlineblog.nationaljournal.com/archives/2008/10/storm.html
Palin "going rogue"
Looking at CNN.com, I found an article titled, "McCain aide: Palin "going rogue". For those you that aren't quite sure what rogue means, the definition in the Webster Dictionary states that rogue is "a dishonest person". In this article there were McCain advisors that have stressed their frustrations about Palin.
There were several cases where McCain sources believe Palin has "gone off message". An example of this that was stated in the article was how she labeled robo calls "irritating". Another source believes that she seems to be looking out for herself rather then the McCain campaign in general.
A McCain advisor called her "a diva". They don't believe that she trusts any of them, her family or anyone, they believe that she pictures herself to be the next leader of the Republican party.
A Palin associate actually defends her from these comments by saying that she just isn't good at process questions and her comments about robo calls were answers to the process questions.
Again in the news we are still continuing to hear about negative impacts on Palin. There are only 9 days left till election day. Does the McCain campaign stand a chance?
There were several cases where McCain sources believe Palin has "gone off message". An example of this that was stated in the article was how she labeled robo calls "irritating". Another source believes that she seems to be looking out for herself rather then the McCain campaign in general.
A McCain advisor called her "a diva". They don't believe that she trusts any of them, her family or anyone, they believe that she pictures herself to be the next leader of the Republican party.
A Palin associate actually defends her from these comments by saying that she just isn't good at process questions and her comments about robo calls were answers to the process questions.
Again in the news we are still continuing to hear about negative impacts on Palin. There are only 9 days left till election day. Does the McCain campaign stand a chance?
Friday, October 24, 2008
Who Could Sway the Vote?
The young voters. Senator Obama has done some new techniques that are really targeting the younger generation. Text messages, video games, and parties on campus are all things that the young voters enjoy. "In many ways, our fate is in their hands," Obama campaign manager David Plouffe said. How true is that though? There was a poll conducted that showed the voters between the ages of 18-29 favored Senator Obama 56% to 29%. Now that is a huge difference. The problem is that only 54% of the new nine million voters said they are definitely going to vote on Election Day.
The big difference between the two campaigns is how they are targeting the college campuses. Obama has paid youth coordinators in 14 of the swing states that coordinate tens of thousands of volunteers. These volunteers plan to hit the dorms, bars, tech. schools, beauty salons, and factory floors. McCain is relying largely on volunteers that will target mainly football games, fraternity houses, and events honoring veterans. McCain is also relying on the program ran by NRC that provides free rides to college students to the polls.
Even though Obama is putting forth all this effort in hopes of early voting or even voting on Election Day, there is no guarantee that the young voters will vote anyways. "Since 1968 there has been a long line of unsuccessful candidates who had staked their stuff on the youth vote," says Republican strategist Alex Vogel. "It's not exactly a reliable turnout." To me, this sounds very negative and not promising at all for Obama. All Obama can do is hope that all his work and effort pays off on Election Day.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122488711136868209.html
The big difference between the two campaigns is how they are targeting the college campuses. Obama has paid youth coordinators in 14 of the swing states that coordinate tens of thousands of volunteers. These volunteers plan to hit the dorms, bars, tech. schools, beauty salons, and factory floors. McCain is relying largely on volunteers that will target mainly football games, fraternity houses, and events honoring veterans. McCain is also relying on the program ran by NRC that provides free rides to college students to the polls.
Even though Obama is putting forth all this effort in hopes of early voting or even voting on Election Day, there is no guarantee that the young voters will vote anyways. "Since 1968 there has been a long line of unsuccessful candidates who had staked their stuff on the youth vote," says Republican strategist Alex Vogel. "It's not exactly a reliable turnout." To me, this sounds very negative and not promising at all for Obama. All Obama can do is hope that all his work and effort pays off on Election Day.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122488711136868209.html
"The Ignored Issue"
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/10/23/social.security/index.html#cnnSTCText
Recently there was an assertion that both candidates have been spending ample time in addressing the budget crisis but have not really zoned in on the concerns growing with Social Security. Obama's campaign disagrees with this statement.
So in talking about Social Security, what does Obama intend to do? As seen in events, paid media, and terms of policy, Obama takes an approach to ensure the long-term health of Social Security. For one he will not risk Social Security savings to the whims of the stock market. Obama also opposes privatizing social security knowing the way to fix a system is by strenthening the payroll tax system; and he opposes raising the retirement age.
Once the candidate is in office, there will definately be some changes and hopefully the changes will show the positive. I feel that Obama has some good ideas with the Social Security plans he intends to follow out... why keep trying something that is continuing to hurt rather than help?
Recently there was an assertion that both candidates have been spending ample time in addressing the budget crisis but have not really zoned in on the concerns growing with Social Security. Obama's campaign disagrees with this statement.
So in talking about Social Security, what does Obama intend to do? As seen in events, paid media, and terms of policy, Obama takes an approach to ensure the long-term health of Social Security. For one he will not risk Social Security savings to the whims of the stock market. Obama also opposes privatizing social security knowing the way to fix a system is by strenthening the payroll tax system; and he opposes raising the retirement age.
Once the candidate is in office, there will definately be some changes and hopefully the changes will show the positive. I feel that Obama has some good ideas with the Social Security plans he intends to follow out... why keep trying something that is continuing to hurt rather than help?
McCains spending on health care ads
McCain’s spending on health care television advertising is far below that of Barack Obama. Some studies show that Obama has spent eight times what John McCain has. You can also compare the spending in percentages with McCain only spending 13% on health care advertising compare to Obama’s 68% on this type of advertisement. Why the big difference between the candidates? Does McCain believe that he has won the election or is he just not concerned about health care for Americans?
According to Kaiser Health Tracking Poll Americans surveyed, 78% understand Obama’s health care plan, while only 65% understand McCain’s proposed plan. I believe this is probably due to more advertising done by Obama, because Americans are getting an explanation of how his plan is going to work. My question is why didn’t McCain’s campaign focus more on health care earlier on in the race instead of a couple of weeks before the election? Now McCain’s campaign is getting attacked with little time to make responses or fight back. A Obama campaign spokesman Nick Shapiro said the campaign has invested in “making sure people know those differences as middle-class families just can’t afford another four years of disastrous Bush-McCain policies.”This is example of a attack against McCain and with so little time left in the election process, will he have time to make a come back?
According to Kaiser Health Tracking Poll Americans surveyed, 78% understand Obama’s health care plan, while only 65% understand McCain’s proposed plan. I believe this is probably due to more advertising done by Obama, because Americans are getting an explanation of how his plan is going to work. My question is why didn’t McCain’s campaign focus more on health care earlier on in the race instead of a couple of weeks before the election? Now McCain’s campaign is getting attacked with little time to make responses or fight back. A Obama campaign spokesman Nick Shapiro said the campaign has invested in “making sure people know those differences as middle-class families just can’t afford another four years of disastrous Bush-McCain policies.”This is example of a attack against McCain and with so little time left in the election process, will he have time to make a come back?
Hillary Supporters
As I was looking through television ads and websites for the candidates, I've noticed that both are trying to appeal towards Hillary supporters. It was interesting. On Obama's homepage there is a link that says Welcome Hillary Supporters, Get Involved. And then when you click it has a form you can fill out. I found it humorous. Let me share the captain above the form.
Join our National Movement for Change
Senator Clinton made history in her historic campaign—not just because she broke barriers, but because she inspired millions of Americans with her strength, her courage, and her commitment to causes like universal health care that make a difference in the lives of hardworking Americans.
It's up to us now to come together to take on John McCain.
On the side of the web page it has buttons to invite friends, make a donation and view Obama's issues.
When I was looking at McCain's website ads, there is an ad where it appeals towards Hillary Supporters. There is a women that stands up with a board saying she supports Hillary. Then she goes on to say how she will now turn and support McCain. At the end of the ad she whispers to us the viewer, even Democrats are making the switch to McCain.
The way that both candidates are appealing towards Hillary Clinton supporters is completely different. I just find it interesting that both included something about the opposing candidate towards the end of their attempt to gain those extra votes.
Join our National Movement for Change
Senator Clinton made history in her historic campaign—not just because she broke barriers, but because she inspired millions of Americans with her strength, her courage, and her commitment to causes like universal health care that make a difference in the lives of hardworking Americans.
It's up to us now to come together to take on John McCain.
On the side of the web page it has buttons to invite friends, make a donation and view Obama's issues.
When I was looking at McCain's website ads, there is an ad where it appeals towards Hillary Supporters. There is a women that stands up with a board saying she supports Hillary. Then she goes on to say how she will now turn and support McCain. At the end of the ad she whispers to us the viewer, even Democrats are making the switch to McCain.
The way that both candidates are appealing towards Hillary Clinton supporters is completely different. I just find it interesting that both included something about the opposing candidate towards the end of their attempt to gain those extra votes.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
"More Important Endorsement than Oprah's"
On Sunday, Colin Powell endorsed Obama for president. In case you don’t know, Powell is a retired general and Republican ex-secretary-of-state under President Bush. Some analysts call this a serious blow to McCain’s campaign. While announcing his endorsement, Powell gave a “devastating” critique of McCain. He mainly talked about McCain’s failed response to the economic crisis, McCain’s negative campaigning, and criticized his selection of Palin as his running mate. He said that McCain’s choice made him question McCain’s judgment because he doesn’t believe “she’s ready to be president of the United States.” He stated that he believes that Obama has the “intellectual vigor” to be president, and that he thinks we need a president who will generate change. Some analysts say this is really harmful to McCain because they believe Powell appealed to many independent voters. However, McCain does not seem to be worried, stating that he is “very pleased to have the endorsement of four former secretaries of state…”
http://www.kansascity.com/449/story/854330.html
http://www.kansascity.com/449/story/854330.html
Palin Causing More Harm Than Good
Sarah Palin has been in the headlines this week, and not for anything good. Coming off of her forgettable Saturday Night Live appearance, Palin's wardrobe and ethics have been called into question. Proving that she truely understands Joe the Plumber's way of life, Palin has racked up a wardrobe bill of over $150,000 since her VP nod. With the economy failing, Joe and his plumber buddies can fully relate to the need to have designer clothes and a new makeover.
With a brand new scandal in the limelight, Palin's old scandals are getting jealous and want more attention. In that vein, a legislative board has found Palin guilty of unethical behavior in troopergate. While she was within her legal limits, the board reported that Palin indeed abused her power. Palin could not be reached for comment, but it can be assumed her response was 'Aw shoot.'
John McCain: Down but not out yet...
No matter who wins this election; it certainly has been historic. America has experienced record-breaking voting turnout for the state primaries, and the early indication that early ballots are at an all time high. The polls have shown Barack Obama is leading nationally and in the Electoral College, as determined by the polls. However, in recent days, John McCain has closed the gap in many of the swing states and even nationally. I think what is important to note is that the polls are not the final verdict for the election. I was actually channel surfing just now and saw Michael Moore on Larry King Live, and he mentioned that we [Americans] cannot follow the polls, because if we did the ballot would have been Rudy Giuliani for the Republican Party and Hillary Clinton for the Democratic Party. The polls have some significance and allow the campaigns to know where they stand amongst voters; but the results of the polls are only suggestive, not an indicator of victory.
We have seen John McCain counted out throughout his campaign; he was out of money, had a poor showing in Iowa and everyone thought it was done. However, McCain revitalized his campaign (heads certainly rolled) and he was the eventual Republican nominee for President. John McCain has been shown to be getting blown away in polls, however this article reports Barack Obama leading 44 to 43 percent nationally, according to an Associated Press poll conducted by GfK Roper Public Affairs & Media.
What will be interesting to see is what these campaigns have still kept in their arsenal and are waiting to use at the last possible moment. It is foolish to believe these campaigns have gone on the offensive with everything that have and so these last 10 days will truly be full-fledged Presidential politics. You also have to assume that John McCain will continue to go on the offensive, especially now considering some polls are showing a "glimmer of hope" for the McCain campaign. Barack Obama has always appeared cool, calm and collected throughout the campaign and has warned supporters not to get too cocky. Hopefully supporters heed the warning of Senator Obama. A common theme from the Obama campaign is that John McCain is the same as George W. Bush; hopefully that theme from the Obama campaign does not come back to haunt them. George W. Bush was down by double digits to Al Gore coming into the general election only to win the Presidency. So in that regard, the Obama campaign better hope that John McCain is not John "McSame"...
We have seen John McCain counted out throughout his campaign; he was out of money, had a poor showing in Iowa and everyone thought it was done. However, McCain revitalized his campaign (heads certainly rolled) and he was the eventual Republican nominee for President. John McCain has been shown to be getting blown away in polls, however this article reports Barack Obama leading 44 to 43 percent nationally, according to an Associated Press poll conducted by GfK Roper Public Affairs & Media.
What will be interesting to see is what these campaigns have still kept in their arsenal and are waiting to use at the last possible moment. It is foolish to believe these campaigns have gone on the offensive with everything that have and so these last 10 days will truly be full-fledged Presidential politics. You also have to assume that John McCain will continue to go on the offensive, especially now considering some polls are showing a "glimmer of hope" for the McCain campaign. Barack Obama has always appeared cool, calm and collected throughout the campaign and has warned supporters not to get too cocky. Hopefully supporters heed the warning of Senator Obama. A common theme from the Obama campaign is that John McCain is the same as George W. Bush; hopefully that theme from the Obama campaign does not come back to haunt them. George W. Bush was down by double digits to Al Gore coming into the general election only to win the Presidency. So in that regard, the Obama campaign better hope that John McCain is not John "McSame"...
Robots: friend or foe?
Robocalls are becoming a nuisance to voters in the swing states. Some people are receiving over ten, thats right TEN, robocalls per day! McCain has launched twelve robocalls in the past six weeks and Obama has launched four in the past four weeks. A voter who has been receiving these calls says the phone calls from the McCain campaign are "sleazy due to falsely accusing Obama." He said, "I used to support John McCain because he honorably served our country, but this year he's running a dishonorable campaign." The fact is that voters are upset about these robocalls. The question is: Are the candidates actually benefitting from the robocalls? The candidates may be doing more harm than good with voters who don't like the robocalls. It may even cause them to switch the candidate whom they support. It seems Obama and McCain need to do a cost/benefit analysis on these calls to see if it really is worth losing voters over. Is there any good news for the voters who are getting these annoying phone calls five or ten times a day? Yes: voters can block these calls by registering at: stoppoliticalcalls.org.
Author: Carol Costello
Article: Robocalls flood phone lines in battleground states
New Poll: Obama, McCain Neck in Neck For Rural Vote:
After trailing by as many as 10 points in a recent swing state rural area poll, Barack Obama has narrowed this gap so that he is now neck and neck with Senator McCain. This is a major development as the votes of rural area people in these swing states is seen as a major vote in being able to win the White House. In the poll, Obama was supported by 46 percent of voters and McCain was supported by 45 percent of voters. The poll, commissioned by The Center for Rural Strategies in Whitesburg, Kentucky, seems to attribute this sudden change to America's declining economic situation. A month ago, this same poll showed that McCain led Obama by a 51 to 41 percent margin. However, when polled this time, voters seemed to think that Obama would do a better job of handling the economy, taxes, and what they called "The financial crisis in our country."
Again this is newsworthy as nearly 20 percent of Americans live in areas that are considered rural. In 2004, George W. Bush won these rural areas by a rather large margin, 19 percent. A possible reason for McCain's drop in the polls could be the rural voters recent cooling of their support for McCain's vice presidential nominee, Sarah Palin. In September, 48 percent of those polled viewed her favorably, while only 33 percent viewed her unfavorably. In this most recent poll however, 40 percent view her as favorably, while 42 percent view her unfavorably. However, McCain still held a 10 point advantage, 53-43 percent on the issue of who would handle the war in Iraq better.
This poll to me seems to help show the major role that the current state of our economy will play in this election. It seems that most people think that Senator Obama would do a better job of handling the struggling economy and the financial crisis, so this bodes well for him. However, there are other key categories that people feel McCain would do a better job with. All of this added up makes for a very interesting last couple of weeks before election day.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20081023/pl_nm/us_usa_politics_rural
Again this is newsworthy as nearly 20 percent of Americans live in areas that are considered rural. In 2004, George W. Bush won these rural areas by a rather large margin, 19 percent. A possible reason for McCain's drop in the polls could be the rural voters recent cooling of their support for McCain's vice presidential nominee, Sarah Palin. In September, 48 percent of those polled viewed her favorably, while only 33 percent viewed her unfavorably. In this most recent poll however, 40 percent view her as favorably, while 42 percent view her unfavorably. However, McCain still held a 10 point advantage, 53-43 percent on the issue of who would handle the war in Iraq better.
This poll to me seems to help show the major role that the current state of our economy will play in this election. It seems that most people think that Senator Obama would do a better job of handling the struggling economy and the financial crisis, so this bodes well for him. However, there are other key categories that people feel McCain would do a better job with. All of this added up makes for a very interesting last couple of weeks before election day.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20081023/pl_nm/us_usa_politics_rural
Health Care Spin
We all know that McCain and Obama have very different health care plans- McCain proposes a market-based system that relies on tax incentives and Obama proposes new subsidies to expand private insurance coverage to foster competition. Each candidate has made attacks on his opponent’s plan that are either false or misleading- One Obama ad falsely characterizes McCain’s plan as the "largest middle-class tax increase in history” and McCain falsely claims that Obama’s plan "will rob 50 million employees of their health coverage." Who are we to believe?I checked out FactCheck.org and found some helpful information.
In short, McCain's plan would allow those who choose to buy insurance on their own to use a health insurance tax credit to pay for their health coverage, with payment going directly from the government to the insurance company. Employees would then pay federal income tax on the value of those benefits, but the tax credit would offset those taxes and companies would not be taxed. He also wants to expand health savings accounts so that any money left over from the tax credit could be put into such an account where it could be used for approved medical expenses.
Obama's plan would create a national system of competing, federally-approved private insurance policies and a public plan through which individuals and small businesses could purchase coverage. He also wants to forbid insurance companies from denying coverage because of preexisting conditions and require that children have insurance, offer tax credits to low-income families, and expand coverage under Medicaid and the State Children's Health Insurance Program.
Independent studies generally agree on one thing – Obama's plan would cover more people however, they differ widely on how much each plan would cost. One study said that McCain's plan would cover somewhat fewer people than Obama's, but at a much higher cost; however, another study by tax policy analysts predicted that Obama’s plan would cover far more people than McCain's, at a moderately higher cost. One study estimated that McCain's plan would cut the number of uninsured Americans by 21 million, while another put the number at only 1 million. The estimates may vary so widely because both candidates are vague about important details.
In short, McCain's plan would allow those who choose to buy insurance on their own to use a health insurance tax credit to pay for their health coverage, with payment going directly from the government to the insurance company. Employees would then pay federal income tax on the value of those benefits, but the tax credit would offset those taxes and companies would not be taxed. He also wants to expand health savings accounts so that any money left over from the tax credit could be put into such an account where it could be used for approved medical expenses.
Obama's plan would create a national system of competing, federally-approved private insurance policies and a public plan through which individuals and small businesses could purchase coverage. He also wants to forbid insurance companies from denying coverage because of preexisting conditions and require that children have insurance, offer tax credits to low-income families, and expand coverage under Medicaid and the State Children's Health Insurance Program.
Independent studies generally agree on one thing – Obama's plan would cover more people however, they differ widely on how much each plan would cost. One study said that McCain's plan would cover somewhat fewer people than Obama's, but at a much higher cost; however, another study by tax policy analysts predicted that Obama’s plan would cover far more people than McCain's, at a moderately higher cost. One study estimated that McCain's plan would cut the number of uninsured Americans by 21 million, while another put the number at only 1 million. The estimates may vary so widely because both candidates are vague about important details.
McCain Goes to Florida
John McCain is trying to ensure victory in the large swing State by focusing on the blue-collar vote. CNN has called his Florida trip “Joe the plumber tour.” McCain is thanking Joe’s all over the United States. John McCain is concentrating on Obama’s tax plan. McCain argues that Obama is only concerned with “spreading the wealth” and not growing the economy. Currently, Obama has a three percent lead in Florida. McCain cannot afford to lose any of the swing states, especially Florida. I think using Joe the plumber is a good way to humanize the issues.
While McCain is in Florida, Obama is once again visiting the Hoosier state. Obama is determined to switch Indiana to blue, even though Indiana has only voted once for a democratic candidate in last 70 years. Although McCain is ahead in Indiana, I think McCain needs to make at least one more stop in Indiana. In the past thirty days the Obama campaign has spent 4.6 million on Indiana ads, while the RNC has only spent 1.1 million. The Republican National Committee has been helping combat the Obama ads in Indiana. However, a personal appearance by McCain might end the contention in Indiana.
While McCain is in Florida, Obama is once again visiting the Hoosier state. Obama is determined to switch Indiana to blue, even though Indiana has only voted once for a democratic candidate in last 70 years. Although McCain is ahead in Indiana, I think McCain needs to make at least one more stop in Indiana. In the past thirty days the Obama campaign has spent 4.6 million on Indiana ads, while the RNC has only spent 1.1 million. The Republican National Committee has been helping combat the Obama ads in Indiana. However, a personal appearance by McCain might end the contention in Indiana.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Biden's Blunder Brings Little Bustle
Over the weekend, VP candidate Joe Biden made the comment,"Mark my words. It will not be six months before the world tests Barack Obama like they did John Kennedy. The world is looking. Watch, we're gonna have an international crisis, a generated crisis, to test the mettle of this guy. " Does this man even think before opening his mouth? Every politician has a reputation for having some characteristic, and Biden definitely is known for making stupid remarks that come back and bite him and that often require later clarification. In the past, he has said to an Indian supporter: "In Delaware, the largest growth in population is Indian-Americans, moving from India. You cannot go to a 7-11 or a Dunkin' Donuts unless you have a slight Indian accent. I'm not joking!" and about Obama: "I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy ... I mean, that's a storybook, man." He also introduced Obama at their first appearance together as running mates as "Barack America." Also, the majority of people are aware of the comment he made about the Great Depression: “When the stock market crashed, Franklin Roosevelt got on the television and didn’t just talk about the princes of greed, he said, ‘Look, here’s what happened." First, FDR was not president in 1929, Herbert Hoover was, and television would not be introduced to the public for another decade or so. Of course, his latest comment has not caused much of a stir except with the McCain campaign. If Sarah Palin had made a similar comment, however, the media would have pounced on her. In fact, it already has many times for much smaller blunders. Will the public notice this bias? Probably not. Biden is dangerous for Obama's campaign everytime he opens his mouth. By saying the world will challenge Obama and an international crisis will arise if he is elected as president, Biden is stressing the importance of having someone in the White House who is experienced and can handle this challenge. This has been the reaction from the McCain campaign towards Biden's latest remark.
http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/10/22/obama-clarifies-bidens-prediction-face-generated-crisis/
http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/10/22/obama-clarifies-bidens-prediction-face-generated-crisis/
Why do citizens in other countries prefer Obama over McCain
A pro Obama billboard has been posted in Belgrade, Serbia which says, "Change that we can believe in." The billboard is reported to portray a picture of Obama on one side and President Kennedy on the other. The billboard was posted by a European group which calls themselves "Europe has no alternative."
John McCain has been attempting to prove during each presidential debate that Obama has no experience or skills in foreign policy. John McCain has attempted to portray himself as the best and most qualified candidate to serve the presidency in foreign relations.
A Gallup poll was issued in several foreign countries to determine if Obama or McCain was most popularity. The Gallop poll asked several citizens in 70 different countries all around the world which American presidential candidate they liked best. The poll concluded that citizens all around the world prefer Obama 4 to 1. The only two countries polled which prefer McCain over Obama was the Phillippines and Georgia.
There was no exact conclusion determined on why Obama is preferred over McCain. CNN proceeded to ask readers to post their opinions and interpretations of this data. I thought it would be interesting to see what we all thought was the reason.
John McCain has been attempting to prove during each presidential debate that Obama has no experience or skills in foreign policy. John McCain has attempted to portray himself as the best and most qualified candidate to serve the presidency in foreign relations.
A Gallup poll was issued in several foreign countries to determine if Obama or McCain was most popularity. The Gallop poll asked several citizens in 70 different countries all around the world which American presidential candidate they liked best. The poll concluded that citizens all around the world prefer Obama 4 to 1. The only two countries polled which prefer McCain over Obama was the Phillippines and Georgia.
There was no exact conclusion determined on why Obama is preferred over McCain. CNN proceeded to ask readers to post their opinions and interpretations of this data. I thought it would be interesting to see what we all thought was the reason.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
A Numbers Game
We have been trying for more than three decades to reform campaign finance, but the private money of large donors continues to slip through our fingers and into the candidates' coffers. Breaking stories on National Public Radio ("Obama's $150 Million Changing Rules of the Game") and the New York Times ("In Fine Print, a Proliferation of Large Donors") in the last two days have revealed the staggering amount of personal donations the candidates or their joint fund-raising committees have received.
A history of campaign finance reform: In 1971, Congress passed the Federal Election Campaign Act limiting the use of a candidate's personal or family money during a campaign, hoping to open the race to anyone, no matter the candidate's family fortune. FECA also created Political Action Committees (PACs) to raise money on behalf of candidates, and it provided for public disclosure of funds raised. The Act was shortly amended in 1974 to create contribution ceilings, spending limits, federal subsidies and funding (public financing), and a Federal Election Commission. A remaining loophole that said that party committees could raise and spend unlimited amounts of money created the problem of "soft money," which was controversial during Clinton's reelection campaign in 1996. In 2001, the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act closed this loophole, raised individual donor limits to compensate, and rescinded limits on "non-political groups." It is noteworthy that Senator McCain, along with Senator Feingold, was a key drafter and supporter of this bill.
Fast-forward to our 2008 general election campaign. Senator McCain accepts public financing, limiting his coffers to $84 million. Senator Obama becomes the first major party presidential candidate to refuse public financing since 1974 when it was instated. In September alone, the Obama campaign raises $150 million. Initially, this was reported as the influx from 632,000 new donors (bringing the total donor roll to 3 million), the average donation size being just $86 (NPR, 20 Oct). This seems to convey a public mandate: If 10% of the population is donating to, let alone supporting, the Obama campaign, and if the average donor could very well be any "poor" college student or blue-collar worker, Senator Obama's candidacy certainly seems to be mandated by a sweeping majority. Could this be the most publicly-supported campaign in our generation? Has the Average Joe (not "Six Pack" or "the Plumber") really beaten out interest groups as the most powerful and populous donor?
Today's New York Times undermines these hopes. An analysis of campaign finance reports filed last week reveals the large impact of individual contributors writing checks that would fund our college education. Donors from industries with an interest in Washington policies have written checks over $25,000 to the joint fund-raising committees of both campaigns. The largest sector donating to the candidates? Securities and investments, including executives of recently bailed-out groups like AIG and Lehman Brothers. The Obama campaign's record contributions in September were helped by over 600 donations over $25,000. The McCain campaign has accepted contributions as large as $70,000.
The New York Times article goes on to specify the interests involved, explain the distribution of these single checks, and voice the worries of campaign finance watchdogs who rightly say these contributions "undermine the whole spirit of the system." Technically, these contributions are legal under today's laws; should they remain that way?
Open questions to the two candidates: How do these large contributions comply with the spirit of campaign finance reform? How will these donors sway your policy initiatives? Explain to the American public why you consider this to be ethical?
Open questions to the donors: What political clout does your donation give you? Why donate these large amounts to a political campaign? What level of CEO salary at a failing financial institution allows you to donate this amount? You are obviously in the upper income bracket; is the amount you donated equivalent to a 3% tax increase?
A moral imperative for the public: We must demand not only transparency in campaign finance but also responsibility and ethical behavior: an executive accepting tens of thousands of dollars from one economic sector cannot remain objective in his/her policy initiatives. Our elected officials must be accountable to the public, not to industries and special interests.
Please read these articles in their entirety for a full view:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=95882376
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/21/us/politics/21donate.html?_r=1&ref=todayspaper&oref=slogin
A history of campaign finance reform: In 1971, Congress passed the Federal Election Campaign Act limiting the use of a candidate's personal or family money during a campaign, hoping to open the race to anyone, no matter the candidate's family fortune. FECA also created Political Action Committees (PACs) to raise money on behalf of candidates, and it provided for public disclosure of funds raised. The Act was shortly amended in 1974 to create contribution ceilings, spending limits, federal subsidies and funding (public financing), and a Federal Election Commission. A remaining loophole that said that party committees could raise and spend unlimited amounts of money created the problem of "soft money," which was controversial during Clinton's reelection campaign in 1996. In 2001, the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act closed this loophole, raised individual donor limits to compensate, and rescinded limits on "non-political groups." It is noteworthy that Senator McCain, along with Senator Feingold, was a key drafter and supporter of this bill.
Fast-forward to our 2008 general election campaign. Senator McCain accepts public financing, limiting his coffers to $84 million. Senator Obama becomes the first major party presidential candidate to refuse public financing since 1974 when it was instated. In September alone, the Obama campaign raises $150 million. Initially, this was reported as the influx from 632,000 new donors (bringing the total donor roll to 3 million), the average donation size being just $86 (NPR, 20 Oct). This seems to convey a public mandate: If 10% of the population is donating to, let alone supporting, the Obama campaign, and if the average donor could very well be any "poor" college student or blue-collar worker, Senator Obama's candidacy certainly seems to be mandated by a sweeping majority. Could this be the most publicly-supported campaign in our generation? Has the Average Joe (not "Six Pack" or "the Plumber") really beaten out interest groups as the most powerful and populous donor?
Today's New York Times undermines these hopes. An analysis of campaign finance reports filed last week reveals the large impact of individual contributors writing checks that would fund our college education. Donors from industries with an interest in Washington policies have written checks over $25,000 to the joint fund-raising committees of both campaigns. The largest sector donating to the candidates? Securities and investments, including executives of recently bailed-out groups like AIG and Lehman Brothers. The Obama campaign's record contributions in September were helped by over 600 donations over $25,000. The McCain campaign has accepted contributions as large as $70,000.
The New York Times article goes on to specify the interests involved, explain the distribution of these single checks, and voice the worries of campaign finance watchdogs who rightly say these contributions "undermine the whole spirit of the system." Technically, these contributions are legal under today's laws; should they remain that way?
Open questions to the two candidates: How do these large contributions comply with the spirit of campaign finance reform? How will these donors sway your policy initiatives? Explain to the American public why you consider this to be ethical?
Open questions to the donors: What political clout does your donation give you? Why donate these large amounts to a political campaign? What level of CEO salary at a failing financial institution allows you to donate this amount? You are obviously in the upper income bracket; is the amount you donated equivalent to a 3% tax increase?
A moral imperative for the public: We must demand not only transparency in campaign finance but also responsibility and ethical behavior: an executive accepting tens of thousands of dollars from one economic sector cannot remain objective in his/her policy initiatives. Our elected officials must be accountable to the public, not to industries and special interests.
Please read these articles in their entirety for a full view:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=95882376
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/21/us/politics/21donate.html?_r=1&ref=todayspaper&oref=slogin
Sunday, October 19, 2008
McCain the real health care reformer
McCain is the real health care reformer:
With only a month to go the presidential election race things are starting to intensify. One issue in particular is health care. Both candidates have different policies and views when it comes to health care reform. Senator Obama is pressing this issue hard in swing states. Senator Obama uses advertising to show that he thinks McCain’s plan is not what we need.
McCain recognizes that a large part of the problem is that the tax code favors employer funded health insurance. McCain’s new system is built on tax breaks that allow employees to buy health insurance with pretax dollars. McCain wants to give self employed and individuals a tax break for buying their own insurances. There are benefits and problems with both parties plans, but this issue could play a key role in who becomes the next President.
With only a month to go the presidential election race things are starting to intensify. One issue in particular is health care. Both candidates have different policies and views when it comes to health care reform. Senator Obama is pressing this issue hard in swing states. Senator Obama uses advertising to show that he thinks McCain’s plan is not what we need.
McCain recognizes that a large part of the problem is that the tax code favors employer funded health insurance. McCain’s new system is built on tax breaks that allow employees to buy health insurance with pretax dollars. McCain wants to give self employed and individuals a tax break for buying their own insurances. There are benefits and problems with both parties plans, but this issue could play a key role in who becomes the next President.
Does McCain Stand a Chance?
According to CNN polls Obama has an overall 49% of voters nationwide, while McCain has 43%.
In an interview with Fox New, McCain said that he loves being the underdog and that he is happy with the way this campaign is going. He still seems to have confidece in his interviews even though he falls behind in the polls. McCain also admits that every time he has gotten ahead he has always messed it up.
He was questioned if he thought Palin has been a drawback or if she has held him down in the election process, but he said she is the best thing that could have happened to his campaign as well as to America.
McCain said that if he fails to win the election, not to feel sorry for him nd he will not feel sorry for himself. He feels as if he is fortunate either way the election turns out.
People can view this in two ways. One way being, the canidate really doesn't care so much about winning. A second way being, he is proud, no matter who wins the election.
How do you view this?
In an interview with Fox New, McCain said that he loves being the underdog and that he is happy with the way this campaign is going. He still seems to have confidece in his interviews even though he falls behind in the polls. McCain also admits that every time he has gotten ahead he has always messed it up.
He was questioned if he thought Palin has been a drawback or if she has held him down in the election process, but he said she is the best thing that could have happened to his campaign as well as to America.
McCain said that if he fails to win the election, not to feel sorry for him nd he will not feel sorry for himself. He feels as if he is fortunate either way the election turns out.
People can view this in two ways. One way being, the canidate really doesn't care so much about winning. A second way being, he is proud, no matter who wins the election.
How do you view this?
Obama's Tax Cut Calculator
For the past few weeks and for the next two, there has been a back and forth debate over whose tax plan will benefit the most people, including you. McCain has promised his tax cuts to corporations will benefit Americans more indirectly through job creation. Obama promises to cut taxes for 95% of working families, and provide at least three times as much tax relief for middle class families as McCain.
To help preview your savings from his plan, Obama has placed a tax calculator on his website homepage where you can see the potential savings you may receive. So, I went ahead and placed my information into the preset categories. With an annual income of $20,000, single filing status, retirement savings and college expenses, I am expected $500 in tax savings plus I may be eligible for $4000 tax credit to pay for college expenses and 50% tax credit for up to $1000 for retirement savings. This all sounds great, however, I am skeptical on this eligible clause.
If you are unsure of how you'll benefit from the Obama tax cut, I encourage you to go to www.barackobama.com and click on the link.
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