Wild World Of Politics: October 2010

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Governor Palin On Fox News Sunday

Watch the latest video at video.foxnews.com

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Governor Palin Talks to Mary Hart of ET - Part II

Courtesy of PalinTV:

Part one aired last night. You can view it here.

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Year of the GOP Woman

It's been dubbed the "Year of the Republican Woman." And with good reason. A record 57 GOP women will appear on the ballot next Tuesday in house, senate and gubernatorial contests across the country.

Two states (Delaware and Iowa) are vying to send their first female representative to the house or Senate. At least four states (California, New Mexico, Oklahoma and South Carolina) could elect their first women governors.

And most of these soon-to-be famous "firsts" are Republican women! Is this the Palin Effect? Absolutely. Republican strategist Leslie Sanchez is the author of You've Come a Long Way Maybe: Sarah, Michelle, Hillary, and the Shaping of the New American Woman. At the time of her book tour she was somewhat critical of Gov. Palin's resignation. But she has no problem giving Palin credit for inspiring the Mama Grizzly revolution.

Via CNN.com:
"[Sarah Palin] opened the door and showed that women could pass the money test," Sanchez said.

Palin also appeals to a certain group for women -- pro-life, evangelicals, mothers and fiscal conservatives -- who have wanted to be a part of the system for a long time, Sanchez said.

"They're newcomers. They took advantage of many of these open seats, and they're evangelizing a lot of that base of folks who are concerned about the direction of government," she added.The numbers tell the story ... Democrats are in jeopardy of losing their lock on the women's vote for the first time in nearly 30 years. Moreover, should a majority of Republican nominees win, it would mean a doubling and near tripling of the number of Republican women in Congress and governships.

For instance, there are currently four Republican women U.S. Senators ... There could be eight after Nov. 2nd. (Since Lessa Meancowski's name isn't actually on the ballot this November, owing to her primary defeat, she is not on our list. Should she somehow win her entitlement campaign, that would be nine GOP women senators. We'd rather have eight GOP women senators, plus Joe Miller.)

Moreover, these new faces to possibly join the senate lady's club are overwhelmingly pro-life: Kelly Ayotte, Christine O'Donnell, Sharron Angle, and Carly Fiorina ... if elected would be the only four pro-life women in the Senate. (Current GOP women senators Kay Bailey Hutchinson (TX), Susan Collins (ME), and Olympia Snowe (ME) and Murkowski are all pro-choice. There are no pro-life females on the Democrat side.) Moreover, Fiorina would be the first pro-life candidate to win statewide in California since Reagan in '88.

There are currently two Republican women governors ... but there could be five after Nov. 2nd. Republican Linda Lingle, currently serving as Hawaii's governor, is prohibited from running again due to term limits. But after November 2nd, we could see the re-election of Jan Brewer in Arizona, and new Republican women serving as governors in California (Meg Whitman), New Mexico (Susana Martinez), Oklahoma (Mary Fallin), and South Carolina (Nikki Haley). Governor Palin has endorsed all but Meg Whitman, who coincidentally is having the biggest struggle of the five.

But the biggest "Lady Grizzly" attack could be in the U.S. House of Representatives, where currently just 17 GOP women serve, including the retiring Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-5) and Rep. Mary Fallin (OK-5) , who is running for governor. They could be joined by another 32 Republican women, who have won party nods and are on the ballot this November for Congress! It's quite likely that the number of GOP women serving in the House will at least double after Nov. 2nd, no small feat. Some of those sure winners include Diane Black in Tennesee, Jaime Herrera in Washington, Kristi Noem in South Dakota, and Sandy Adams in Florida. Vicky Hartzler is also making a strong push in Missouri, along with Ruth McClung in Arizona.

So, without further adieu ... Your GOP Women! (Follow link to see short videos about each GOP woman along with links to their campaign websites).

Here is a handy list to track the women GOPers on election night.
Alabama

1. Martha Roby, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, AL-02

Arizona

2. Governor Jan Brewer, Nominee for Governor
3. Janet Contreras, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, AZ-04
4. Ruth McClung, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, AZ-07

Arkansas

5. Beth Anne Rankin, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, AR-04

California

6. Meg Whitman, Nominee for Governor
7. Carly Fiorina, Nominee for U.S. Senate, California
8. Mattie Fein, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, CA-36
9. Star Parker, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, CA-37
10. Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, CA-45

Connecticut

11. Linda McMahon, Nominee for U.S. Senate
12. Ann Brickley, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, CT-01
13. Janet Peckinpaugh, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, CT-02

Delaware

14. Christine O'Donnell, Nominee for U.S. Senate

Florida

15. Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen FL-18
16. Karen Harrington, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, FL-20
17. Sandy Adams, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, FL-24

Georgia

18. Lisbeth "Liz" Carter, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, GA-04

Illinois

19. Teri Davis Newman, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, IL-12
20. Congresswoman Judy Biggert, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, IL-13

Indiana

21. Jackie Walorski, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, IN-02

Iowa

22. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, IA-02

Kansas

23. Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, KS-02

Michigan

24. Congresswoman Candice Miller, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, MI-10

Minnesota

25. Teresa Collett, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, MN-04
26. Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, MN-06

Missouri

27. Robyn Hamlin, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, MO-01
28. Vicky Hartzler, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, MO-04
29. Congresswoman Jo Ann Emerson, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, MO-08

Nevada

30. Sharron Angle, Nominee for U.S. Senate

New Hampshire

31. Kelly Ayotte, Nominee for U.S. Senate

New Jersey

32. Anna C. Little, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, NJ-06
33. Henrietta Dwyer, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, NJ-13

New Mexico

34. Susana Martinez, Nominee for Governor

New York

35. Susan Kone, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, NY-08
36. Dr. Nan Hayworth, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, NY-19
37. Ann Marie Buerkle, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, NY-25
38. Dr. Jill Rowland, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, NY-28

North Carolina

39. Renee Ellmers, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, NC-02
40. Congresswoman Virginia Foxx, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, NC-05
41. Congresswoman Sue Myrick, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, NC-09

Ohio

42. Congresswoman Jean Schmidt, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, OH-02

Oklahoma

43. Congresswoman Mary Fallin, Nominee for Governor

Oregon

44. Delia Lopez, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, OR-03

Pennsylvania

45. Pia Varma, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, PA-1
46. Melissa Haluszczak, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, PA-14

South Carolina

47. Nikki Haley, Nominee for Governor

South Dakota

48. Kristi Noem, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, SD-AL

Tennessee

49. Diane Black, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, TN-06
50. Congressman Marsha Blackburn, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, TN-07
51. Charlotte Bergmann, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, TN-09

Texas

52. Congresswoman Kay Granger, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, TX-12
53. Dr. Donna Campbell, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, TX-25

Washington

54. Jaime Herrera, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, WA-03
55. Congresswomen Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, WA-05

West Virginia

56. Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, WV-02

Wyoming

57. Congresswoman Cynthia Lummis, Nominee for U.S. House of Representatives, WY-AL

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Bombs Found On U.S.-Bound Flights Tied To Al Qaeda, More Could Be Sent, White House Adviser Says

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Even a Democrat Party Gubernatorial Candidate Is Conceding Governor Palin is Presidential Material

Even a Democrat Party gubernatorial candidate is conceding Governor Palin is presidential material:Gubernatorial candidates Democrat Jari Askins and Republican Mary Fallin agreed on one thing at Thursday's....gubernatorial debate: Sarah Palin is presidential material.Joe Kelley, KRMG talk radio host, asked both candidates whether Palin was presidential material."I'd love to go hunting with her," Askins said. "Take her turkey hunting."Askins said she thinks it would be a nice and informal way to become acquainted with Palin."I haven't been hunting grizzly bears, but if she would invite me up there (Alaska), I can promise you I'd go," Askins said."She's a wonderful communicator. She does a great job in trying to reach the people and communicate with them, and I think everyone in the U.S. realizes now that if you have the desire, anyone who sets their mind to it can run for president of this country, and she's certainly one of those."While I commend Askins for showing some common sense, go vote for Mary Fallin. By the way, someone in the press should ask Joe Manchin who he would vote for between Govenror Palin and Barack Obama.

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Presidential Proclamation--Military Family Month

Release Time:

For Immediate Release

-------
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

We owe each day of security and freedom that we enjoy to the members of our Armed Forces and their families. Behind our brave service men and women, there are family members and loved ones who share in their sacrifice and provide unending support. During Military Family Month, we celebrate the exceptional contributions of our military families, and we reaffirm our commitments to these selfless individuals who exemplify the highest principles of our Nation.
Across America, military families inspire us all with their courage, strength, and deep devotion to our country. They endure the challenges of multiple deployments and moves; spend holidays and life milestones apart; juggle everyday tasks while a spouse, parent, son, or daughter is in harm's way; and honor the service of their loved ones and the memory of those lost.
Just as we hold a sacred trust to the extraordinary Americans willing to lay down their lives to protect us all, we also have a national commitment to support and engage our military families. They are proud to serve our country; yet, they face unique challenges because of that service. My Administration has taken important steps to help them shoulder their sacrifice, and we are working to ensure they have the resources to care for themselves and the tools to reach their dreams. We are working to improve family resilience, enhance the educational experience of military children, and ensure military spouses have employment and advancement opportunities, despite the relocations and deployment cycles of military life. Our historic investment to build a 21st-century Department of Veterans Affairs is helping to provide our veterans with the benefits and care they have earned. We are also standing with our service members and their families as they transition back into civilian life, providing counseling as well as job training and placement. And, through the Post-9/11 GI Bill, our veterans and their families can pursue the dream of higher education.
However, Government can only do so much. While only a fraction of Americans are in military families, all of us share in the responsibility of caring for our military families and veterans, and all sectors of our society are better off when we reach out and work together to support these patriots. By offering job opportunities and workplace flexibility, businesses and companies can benefit from the unparalleled dedication and skills of a service member or military spouse. Through coordination with local community groups, individuals and organizations can ensure our military families have the help they need and deserve when a loved one is deployed. Even the smallest actions by neighbors and friends send a large message of profound gratitude to the families who risk everything to see us safe and free.
As America asks ever more of military families, they have a right to expect more of us -- it is our national challenge and moral obligation to uphold that promise. If we hold ourselves to the same high standard of excellence our military families live by every day, we will realize the vision of an America that supports and engages these heroes now and for decades to come.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2010 as Military Family Month. I call on all Americans to honor military families through private actions and public service for the tremendous contributions they make in support of our service members and our Nation.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-ninth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.
BARACK OBAMA

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Saturday Diary Rescue

Enjoy.

Google donates 5$ Million to Journalism. (jeffrtho)

The Opportunity Agenda invites a discussion on what's driving -- or curbing -- enthusiasm in 2010 with Midterm Elections in the Public Discourse.

What we meant when we said "change," via theyoungturks in What Obama is Missing.

Go vote. Seriously. Are We in for Another Round of “Whatever It Is, I’m Against It?” (Heather Taylor-Miesle NRDC Action Fund)

Prison companies' profit motive sheds new light on Arizona's immigration law. (Restore Fairness)

Take a deficit quiz with Hoomai29 and Republicans 0 for 20 (0%) on Debt Reduction Since 1978.

John Russenello argues one step backward may be the only way forward for progressives in Democrats for Angle.

Michael Bersin reports an HRCC robocall in Missouri's 121st Legislative District: desperation and homophobia.

Project Vote gets an early start on Debunking the Tea Party’s Election Night Message.

And your bonus: From school boards to foreclosure fraud, Downticket Races May Save Your House, Health, and Community.

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Remarks by the First Lady at the Women's Conference with California First Lady Maria Shriver

Release Time:

For Immediate Release

10:02 A.M. PDT
MRS. OBAMA: Wow, there’s a lot of women in this room. (Laughter.) It’s very good, very good. Well, thank you all so much. And thank you, Maria, for that right on point introduction. Thank you for your moving words today, and thank you for your courage and your candor in sharing your own experiences and inspiring so many other women, not just here in California but across the country.
Maria has been a great friend to me, and even if she was a little hesitant about the job at first, she has been a tremendous example of what a First Lady can and should be. (Applause.) She has shown us all the impact you can have when you live your life with spirit, and determination, and a singular focus on doing good in the world. So let us give Maria another rousing round of applause. (Applause.)
So, the last time I was here was a few years ago, when I was on a panel with four other wives of presidential candidates. And I have to tell you that it was truly one of the highlights of my time on the campaign trail, because amidst all the noise and the back-and-forth of a presidential election, this conference gave us the chance to step back, and to breathe, and actually have a conversation; to talk not just about politics, or what our husbands thought about this or that issue, but about the experience we were sharing, the challenges we faced and the things we were passionate about as wives, as mothers, and most importantly as women.
That is the beauty of this conference –- the space it provides for all of us as women to just be ourselves, let it hang loose a little bit, and speak honestly and openly about the issues that matter most to us.
And I’d like to do that once again today. I’d like to speak today about an issue that I care deeply about, and talk with you about how I came to this issue, and why it matters so much to me, and why I think it should matter to all women and all Americans.
It started a few years ago, in the months after my husband had begun his presidential campaign. Now, it had taken a little convincing to persuade me that this whole running-for-President thing was a good idea. And by “a little” convincing, I mean it was a lot of convincing, because we had two very young daughters at home, I had a full-time job that I loved, and I worried about what it would mean for our family. So it took me a while to get out of my own head, and to set aside my own fears and self interest, and focus on all the good that I believed a man like my husband could do as President.
But even once I was on board -- (applause) -- well, thank you for that -- (applause) -- but even once I was on board, I was reluctant to go out on the campaign trail myself. I didn’t like the idea of leaving my girls for days on end. I didn’t have a whole lot of experience on the stump. And to tell you the truth, I was scared. I was worried that I’d say the wrong thing. I was nervous that someone might ask a question that I didn’t know the answer to. And I have a tendency to do that thing a lot of women do, where you get 99 things right, but then you stress and beat yourself up over the one thing you mess up. (Laughter.) I know that sounds familiar in this room. (Laughter and applause.)
So I decided that I would focus on what I knew.
And as a working mom, I thought I knew a thing or two about the challenge of balancing a fulltime job and the round-the-clock needs of my family, juggling the recital and the conference calls, making the endless to-do lists that I never got through and often lost, feeling like I was falling short both at work and at home.
I also knew that I wasn’t alone -- that every singe woman I knew, regardless of race, education, geographic location, income, we were all struggling to keep it together. And I believed that the voices of working women needed to be at the heart of creating any comprehensive agenda to move this country forward.
So I decided to start by meeting with groups of working women to listen to their concerns and talk with them about how I thought my husband could help.
So, of course, before I went out, I did my homework. I read my briefing books from cover to cover. I thought about all the issues that might come up. I thought about the answers to every question that I could imagine. And for the most part, I was prepared. For the most part, in the stories of the women I met, I recognized my own story.
But there was one group of women whose stories were new to me -- and whose questions I often didn’t have answers to. I met them in every corner of this country, in every community -- big cities, suburbs, and small towns. They were military spouses –- mainly women, but a few good men -– whose spouses were serving our country, putting their lives on the line to keep us safe.
And let me tell you, their stories took my breath away. These women, they told me about husbands who were on their third, or fourth, fifth deployment, away from home six, 12, 15 months at a time. They talked about missing birthdays and anniversaries, and about running a household all alone while trying to hide their worries from their spouses. They told me about answering all those questions from their kids about when daddy is coming home.
And some of these women were active duty military themselves, including some who were single moms. See, and these women worried about what would happen to their kids if both they and their husbands were deployed at the same time.
They talked about what it means to move every couple of years –- often far from their extended families.
They talked about having to find a new pediatrician, new childcare, new carpool, new church, a whole new life. They talked about helping their kids adjust to their seventh, eighth, ninth new school, and if their child had a special need, trying to find a school that would accommodate that child.
One woman I met was desperate to adopt a child. But she and her husband kept having to move before the state agency processed their forms. So they’d have to start the process all over again in a new state.
These women told me about how hard it is to find a job in a new town where you have no connections. How difficult it is to ace a job interview with an employer who’s reluctant to hire someone who might have to pick up and move in a couple of years. How frustrating –- and expensive –- it is to get new professional license or certification, as a teacher, social worker, real estate broker, every time you move.
Believe it or not, these women are out there paying for three or four different bar exams so that they can practice law in each new state where they move. And personally, if that were me, I’d have given up after the first or second time. (Laughter.)
And many of these women are just starting out. They’re still trying to complete their own educations. And it’s hard to do that when their credits don’t always transfer from school to school, or the nearest university doesn’t offer that program that they want or need, or they don’t qualify for in-state tuition and just can’t afford it.
Many of these women were younger than I was.
They had far less support and far fewer resources than I ever had. And every day, they were confronting challenges that I could barely even imagine.
So put yourself in their shoes for a minute. Ask yourself: How do I keep fears and anxieties from your kids when, as one mother wrote me, and this is a quote, “&hellipa good day is when a military chaplain doesn’t knock on my door”? What do you say at Christmas, when the only gift your little girl asks for is for her father to come home? And when he does come home, are you prepared for those months of readjustment –- re-negotiating roles, and balancing responsibilities, rekindling your relationship when, in so many ways, both of you have changed? And what if he comes home wounded? Are you ready to be a round-the-clock caregiver, trying to make that person you love whole again?
So here I was, someone who’d always thought of myself as knowledgeable about women’s issues. I’d been reading about, thinking about, talking about, and living these issues my entire life, and here was one group of women for whom these issues were magnified ten-fold, a hundred-fold – and I had no idea.
I mean, you want to talk about equal pay? According to one report, military spouses make an average of $10,500 less a year than civilians, and there’s an even larger pay gap between college educated military and civilian spouses.
You want to talk about balancing work and family? Well, try doing that when your partner has an intense, dangerous, round-the-clock job, and that job is located halfway around the world.
You want to talk about confronting glass ceilings and succeeding in the professional world? Try doing that when you don’t live anywhere long enough to get promoted and gain seniority at your job.
And as I talked with these women, and learned more about their lives, I kept asking myself, how is it possible that I and so many other Americans know so little about the challenges they face?
I mean, like all Americans, I have always been awed by our men and women in uniform. I have always been inspired by the sacrifices they make for our country. So how is it that so many of us know so little about the sacrifices their families make?
Well, it turns out that one of the primary reasons is that military families simply don’t complain. They are strong and resilient and independent. They’re proud of their service to their country, and they’re more than willing to make the sacrifices that come with it. So no matter how tough it gets, because they’re so capable, they manage to keep everything together.
So many of us never hear about the challenges they’re facing. We never get that glimpse inside their lives. And so we think everything is fine. And as a result, too many military families feel invisible to their fellow Americans.
In one recent survey, more than half of military spouses –- more than half -– said they felt like their communities didn’t really support them. And that’s just unacceptable. Their loved ones protect every single one of us. Their service keeps our entire country safe. So their sacrifice should be our sacrifice. Supporting them is our solemn obligation as a grateful nation. (Applause.)
I will never forget what one of these women said to me during the campaign. She said, simply, and this is a quote, “I just want to make sure that military spouses are always heard, that we have a voice&hellip” And I promised myself back then if people gave my husband the privilege of serving this country, I would do everything I could to be that voice.
And I got very lucky when my husband picked his running mate, because with Joe Biden came Jill Biden, who is a Blue Star Mom, and someone who knows a thing or two about the challenges facing military families. (Applause.) She is a tireless advocate for National Guard and Reserve families, and she has been a phenomenal partner in this work.
And as Jill and I have visited with military families across the country, it has become very clear that our work isn’t just about supporting them. It’s also about all they have to offer us. It’s about all they have to contribute to our workplaces and our communities.
I mean, the fact is that military spouses are some of the most talented, hard-working, public-spirited people I have ever met.
You want to meet someone who can multitask and think outside the box? Someone with a strong work ethic and a rock-solid sense of responsibility? Someone who can adapt to changing circumstances and work well in all kinds of situations with people? Well, that’s a pretty good description of your average military spouse.
And they haven’t just picked up skills from managing a military lifestyle. Believe it or not, on top of all their other responsibilities, military spouses also put in countless hours volunteering, both on and off-base. In a recent survey, 68 percent of military family members reported volunteering in the past year. That’s compared to just 27 percent of the general population.
And much of this work goes far beyond your typical volunteer efforts.
For example, you’ve all heard of Toys for Tots, right? Well, this program was actually founded by and run by the Marine Corps Reserve. Now, this is a massive, nationwide effort. In 2009, it was active in 691 communities in all 50 states, distributing more than 16 million toys to more than 7 million children. So this is a serious organizational challenge; one that military spouses play a major role in managing.
And then there are all these programs that most folks haven’t even heard about. How many of you know what a Family Readiness Group is, or an FRG? (Applause.) These are support organizations run by military spouses that serve hundreds of families at a time.
And here’s what an average day might look like for a spouse who’s serving as an FRG leader. She might spend her morning working on a communications strategy –- coordinating the unit’s website, newsletter, Facebook page. Over lunch, she might review the FRG’s budget, craft a spending plan for the coming year. In the afternoon, she’s going to meet with healthcare representatives to learn about new counseling resources, or maybe a team of volunteers to coordinate upcoming events. The evening might bring news that the deployed unit has sustained a casualty. So she’ll work late into the night, rounding up support for the affected family, and notifying other members about what happened.
Now, if she were doing this same kind of work at a company, she’d probably be a senior executive, maybe even a COO or a CEO. You see, that’s the level of talent that we’re talking about here.
So the question today is, how do we give these women -– and our male military spouses as well –- the chances they deserve to use their skills, and the support they need to juggle their responsibilities?
And there’s a reason I’m asking these questions here in this room filled with thousands of powerful, passionate, and compassionate women. And that’s because as women, I know that we all can relate to everything I’ve described today. We get it.
While most of us don’t experience these struggles to the same degree as military spouses, that feeling of being pulled in all directions, that nagging sense that you’re falling short both at work and at home, that tendency to worry about, and care for, everyone but yourself -– these things are universal.
And I’m reminded today of something that one military wife said during a discussion that we had down in Kentucky. When one of her fellow spouses was speaking, and got choked up for a minute, this woman jumped in and said, and this is a quote: “I don’t know this woman&hellipI didn’t meet her before today&hellipbut when she leaves here, she will have my number. And she will be able to call me anytime&hellipShe’s got the support of this friend right here.”
You see, this is what we do for each other as women. It is what we do for our sisters and our girlfriends, for our mothers and our daughters. (Applause.) We show up. We show up at the door with some food. We show up at the door with some chocolate. And if things are really bad, we show up at the door with a bottle of wine, right? (Laughter and applause.) We take that shift in the carpool. We say, hey, send the kids over to my house right now. I’ll take them off your hands for a day, a night, a weekend, whatever you need.
So we, as women, we know how to reach out. We know how to support each other. And the question is, what can we as women do to support our military spouses? How can we as a nation give back to these families who’ve given so much?
As President, my husband has been working hard to strengthen support programs and counseling services and to increase funds for housing, and childcare, career development. He’s extended the Family and Medical Leave Act so more military families and caregivers can benefit from that. (Applause.) And we’re working with states to streamline requirements so that spouses don’t have to reapply for professional credentials and take new tests every time they move. (Applause.) Simple things. So government is doing a lot of important work on these issues.
But the truth is that there is so much more that each of us can do –- and there’s so much more that each of us should do -– right in our own communities, because it’s not enough to be proud. It’s not enough just to feel grateful. It’s time for each of us to act. It’s time for each of us to be that architect of change for these families in whatever way we can.
And you don’t have to know much about the military to help. You can help just by doing whatever it is you do best.
Are you a teacher, a school administrator, a member of the PTA? How about seeing what your school can do to better support military kids right in your own community?
Are you a lawyer, an accountant, maybe a counselor? How about offering your services pro bono to some military families in your area?
Do you own a small business or do Human Resources for a large one? How about making an effort to hire more military spouses, and making your workplace more military-spouse friendly?
Do you have a few hours in your week to volunteer? How about getting online and going to serve.gov <http://serve.gov> to find out how you can serve military families in your own area?
The possibilities are endless. Things like this are the least we can do, considering everything that these women –- and men –- are doing for us. Their strength, and determination, and service, it inspires me every single day.
I’m inspired by the woman who told me about how much she missed her husband, but then said, simply: “&hellipit’s not easy, we all put on our pretty clothes and our bold face and we stand up and we hold our head up high. We are the Army wives,” she said. “We are the ones who hold the fort down while they’re gone&hellip”
I’m inspired by women like Connie Henline who stayed at the bedside of her husband for months after he was wounded in Iraq. And I’m inspired by their daughter, Brittany, who went from being an ordinary 15 year-old to acting as a mom for her younger siblings –- doing the errands, cooking meals, supervising homework while her mother was by her father’s bedside. When asked how someone so young could take on so much responsibility, she responded, “They needed me, and my priorities changed. My family came first.”
And I’m inspired by Gold Star Wives like Autumn Letendre. Autumn’s husband was killed in Iraq back in 2006. And in the years since, she’s become a passionate advocate for military families –- speaking across the country, attending military funerals to comfort loved ones, working to ensure that her husband’s memory lives on for her young son. And in a letter that she sent to military families, she wrote, “I may have lost the love of my life, but I have gained a life and a story that few in this great country have.”
You see, these women –- and men –- they are heroes. And it’s time that we recognize that the challenges they face and the obstacles they overcome and the contributions they make, all of that isn’t just a military issue. It’s an American issue. And more importantly, it’s a women’s issue. It is an issue that I believe should be on the agenda of every women’s conference –- right up there with equal pay, right up there with work-family balance, right up there with breaking the glass ceiling. (Applause.)
We have to talk about this. Their needs, and their concerns, should be on the agenda of every woman and every American, because they represent the very best this country has to offer. And it’s time that each of us did our part to give them the support they need, the recognition they deserve, and the gratitude they’ve earned. So I look forward to working with all of you in some way, shape or form to make that happen in the months and years ahead. We have a lot of work to do, but if we all work together as we know how, we can ensure that our military spouses always have a voice in this country.
So thank you all. Thank you for what you do. Thank you for your prayers and your support. God bless you all. Take care. (Applause.)
END
10:27 A.M. PDT

Michael Steele John Boehner Speaker Pelosi stimulus bill recession

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Readout of President Obama's Phone Call with Pakistani President Asif Zardari

Release Time:

For Immediate Release

President Obama called Pakistani President Asif Zardari to consult with him on the progress made during the recent U.S.-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue, and to reinforce America’s commitment to partner with Pakistan on economic, development, and governance priorities.

President Obama discussed the progress that the U.S. and Pakistan have made towards strengthening bilateral relations within the past two years. He highlighted the commitment of both Secretary Clinton and Foreign Minister Qureshi to the U.S.-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue, which has allowed our two countries to deepen our consultations on security, economic, development, and governance issues. Both President Obama and President Zardari acknowledged that more work needed to be done to address the direct threat to our countries posed by terrorist groups in Pakistan. They also agreed that the U.S. and Pakistan have worked hard to build an atmosphere of trust and cooperation, and committed to ongoing efforts to build a stronger, strategic, and more collaborative U.S.-Pakistan relationship.

President Obama emphasized the United States’ commitment and support for democracy and transparency in Pakistan, highlighting that the U.S. and Pakistan share an interest in ensuring democratic traditions in Pakistan are strengthened. He also acknowledged Pakistan’s economic difficulties, and encouraged President Zardari to work to pass key economic reforms, such as tax reform and containing energy subsidies. President Obama concluded the call by conveying his intention to visit Pakistan in 2011 and personally welcomed President Zardari to visit the United States in the coming year.

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CT-Gov: 49% Foley (R), 47% Malloy (D) (PPP 10/27-29)

Sharron Angle Pat Toomey Jan Brewer Bill Brady Karl Rove

Under Fire From Democrats, Chamber of Commerce Helps Blue Dogs

Republicans and their allies in business are howling that a Democratic charge that "secret foreign money" is fueling GOP campaigns is a dog that just won't hunt. Now the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is helping conservative Blue Dog Democrats in a bid to prove it is bipartisan after all.
The powerful business lobby quietly began running ads last week in the congressional districts of 10 endangered Democrats who opposed President Obama's health-care bill or have parted ways on taxes and other fiscal issues with Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi.
The "voter education" ads were first spotted by political media trackers and have been all but lost in the sturm und drang over the chamber's cable-dubbed "plot to buy America."
"The chamber has a broad political program," spokesman J.P. Fielder told Politics Daily. "We're supporting pro-business candidates who have voted with the chamber," he said, noting that includes Democratic Senate hopeful Joe Manchin in West Virginia.
Among the lucky "dogs" getting help from the chamber are Reps. Glenn Nye in Virginia, Travis Childers in Mississippi and Alabama's Bobby Bright, the first Democrat to say he won't vote for Pelosi for speaker if he is re-elected.

In one "voter education ad," the narrator thanks Rep. Jim Marshall of Georgia for voting no on Obama's health-care bill. "Tell him to keep fighting for seniors and against Washington's government health care takeover," it urges.
Jessica Klonsky, a spokeswoman for Rep. Frank Kratovil, a freshman Democrat who represents Maryland's conservative Eastern Shore, would not comment on the ads running on his behalf. "We can't control what the chamber is doing," she said, "but the endorsement is just another example of (Kratovil's) independent leadership."
The officially nonpartisan lobby is spending nearly $1.9 million to help conservative House Democrats this year, according to Federal Election Commission records. That's a fraction of the nearly $22 million in outside expenditures that the Center for Responsive Politics calculates the chamber has plunked down. Most of that money has gone to Republicans.
The new ads are likely to do little to douse the firestorm over "attack ads" by outside groups. In campaign stops last week, Obama railed against the chamber for funding spots partly with dues paid by foreign corporations. The ads are "a threat to our democracy," he said. "The American people deserve to know who's trying to sway their elections."
The New York Times reported that "a closer examination shows that there is little evidence that what the chamber does in collecting overseas dues is improper or even unusual." Republicans have accused Democrats of hypocrisy since left-leaning labor unions helping Democrats also have dues-paying international affiliates.
The report didn't keep the Democratic National Committee from launching its own attack ad against the chamber. Such "shills for big business," it said, are taking "secret foreign money to influence our elections."
On Tuesday, after appearing to back down on the foreign connection, White House spokesman Robert Gibbs pushed back against critics. He said the president would continue to ask questions about GOP donors, whether they are foreign or domestic.
ThinkProgress, the liberal blog that first raised the specter of foreign influence, suggested the Democratic spots are a smokescreen. "While the chamber ads may lead many to believe that the organization is taking on a more bipartisan stance, the truth is that it has a long history of allying itself closely to Republicans," it said, noting the group's directors have given six times as much money to GOP candidates as Democrats.
"The chamber wants to give substance to its claim of being bipartisan. That matters for appearances, of course. But it also is important because the chamber does not in fact want to be wholly captured by a single party and thus lose its ability to negotiate with both parties," said Mark Rozell, a George Mason University political scientist.
"If the GOP wins the House, while some moderate-conservative Democrats also win with chamber support, that sends an even stronger message of the group's ability to hurt the president's standing," he said. "The message to Democrats over the next two years would be heard loudly: support this president, look what happens. Stick with us, then we can help you."

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John McCain Campaigns For Sharron Angle In Nevada

Charlie Rangel Arizona immigration Afghan Tropical Storm

Governor Palin: Lisa, are you going to shut down my Facebook page for writing this? Update

Lisa Murkowski sinking to new lows. From Facebook:
Yesterday, Lisa Murkowski?s hired guns threatened radio host Dan Fagan, and more importantly, the station that airs Fagan?s show, with legal action for allegedly illegal ?electioneering.? The station, unlike Murkowski, who is flush with millions of dollars from vested corporate interests, does not have a budget for a legal defense. So it did what any small market station would do when threatened by Beltway lawyers charging $500 to $1000 an hour ? they pulled Dan Fagan off the air.

Does all this sound heavy handed? It is. It is an interference with Dan Fagan?s constitutional right to free speech. It is also a shocking indictment against Lisa Murkowski. How low will she go to hold onto power? First, she gets the Division of Elections to change its write-in process ? a process that Judge Pfiffner correctly determined had been in place without change for 50 years.

She is accepting financial support from federal contractors, an act that is highly questionable and now pending before the FEC. And today, she played her last card. She made it clear that if you disagree with her and encourage others to exercise their civic rights, she?ll take you off the air.

The concept of ?electioneering? involves several issues, but typically refers to campaigning at the polls, which is appropriately banned. Under federal law, it can also mean paying for advertising on broadcast media during a federal election cycle, and it requires disclosures if done by groups and corporations. Fagan used satire to mock Murkowski?s write-in efforts and encouraged Alaskan?s to run as write-in candidates. That is not illegal. That is free speech.

Individuals like Dan Fagan have a fundamental right to speak their minds without threats from the incumbent Senator from Alaska. It is hard to find a constitutional right Americans cherish more than the right to free speech. This was a right Joe Miller, as a decorated combat veteran ? a tank commander tested in battle, was willing to die to defend.

Dan Fagan has not always agreed with me, but I will gladly defend his right to speak freely on his radio show, which he has often used to criticize me. In fact, Fagan has actually used his radio show to attack and insult me, my husband, my children, and my family in just about every way possible. He was especially insulting to my son, who left for a war zone to defend Fagan?s right to attack our family. But when I was his governor, I never would have dreamed of threatening his right to free speech.

I support him in this fight because this D.C. Beltway thuggery, as exemplified by Lisa Murkowski?s latest threat, is ruining our country. The powers that be want ordinary Americans to sit down and shut up and let the ruling class ride us right off the debt cliff we?re heading towards with Obama, Pelosi, and Reid steering the nation?s car. We can?t let them. Now is the time to put aside our past differences and stand up to the establishment powers.

This whole episode confirms again why we need to elect Joe Miller. Lisa, you can sue me if you want (you won?t be the first). But I will not be intimidated from speaking my mind. Your intimidation just empowered us liberty-loving Alaskans. Are you really that out of touch?

- Sarah Palin
Governor Palin also sent this tweet after posting the Facebook note:

Joe Miller - do not give up. It's you against the machine. This is it. "'Lost causes' are the only ones worth fighting for." Clarence Darrow

Joe Biden Bush tax cuts Rubio Charlie Crist Scott Brown

Weekly Address: President Obama Calls on GOP Leadership to Put Aside Partisan Politics and Focus on Strengthening the Economy

Release Time:

For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – In his weekly address, President Obama called the recent comments by the GOP leadership, which put scoring political points over solving the problems facing the country, “troubling,” and asked Democrats and Republicans to work together to move the country forward. Regardless of the outcome of Tuesday’s elections, leaders on both sides of the aisle owe it to the American people to put aside politics and work together on a number of issues that have traditionally had bipartisan support, like tax breaks for middle-class families and investing in infrastructure.
The audio and video of the address will be available online at www.whitehouse.gov at 6:00 a.m. EDT, Saturday, October 30, 2010.

Remarks of President Barack Obama
As Prepared for Delivery
The White House
October 30, 2010

Tuesday is Election Day, and here in Washington, the talk is all about who will win and who will lose – about parties and politics.
But around kitchen tables, I’m pretty sure you’re talking about other things: about your family finances, or maybe the state of the economy in your hometown; about your kids, and what their futures will bring. And your hope is that once this election is over, the folks you choose to represent you will put the politics aside for a while, and work together to solve problems.
That’s my hope, too.
Whatever the outcome on Tuesday, we need to come together to help put people who are still looking for jobs back to work. And there are some practical steps we can take right away to promote growth and encourage businesses to hire and expand. These are steps we all should be able to agree on – not Democratic or Republican ideas, but proposals that have traditionally been supported by both parties.
We ought to provide continued tax relief for middle class families who have borne the brunt of the recession. We ought to allow businesses to defer taxes on the equipment they buy next year. And we ought to make the research and experimentation tax credit bigger and permanent – to spur innovation and foster new products and technologies.
Beyond these near-term steps, we should work together to tackle the broader challenges facing our country – so that we remain competitive and prosperous in a global economy. That means ensuring that our young people have the skills and education to fill the jobs of a new age. That means building new infrastructure – from high-speed trains to high-speed internet – so that our economy has room to grow. And that means fostering a climate of innovation and entrepreneurship that will allow American businesses and American workers to lead in growth industries like clean energy.
On these issues – issues that will determine our success or failure in this new century – I believe it’s the fundamental responsibility of all who hold elective office to seek out common ground. It may not always be easy to find agreement; at times we’ll have legitimate philosophical differences. And it may not always be the best politics. But it is the right thing to do for our country.
That’s why I found the recent comments by the top two Republican in Congress so troubling. The Republican leader of the House actually said that “this is not the time for compromise.” And the Republican leader of the Senate said his main goal after this election is simply to win the next one.
I know that we’re in the final days of a campaign. So it’s not surprising that we’re seeing this heated rhetoric. That’s politics. But when the ballots are cast and the voting is done, we need to put this kind of partisanship aside – win, lose, or draw.
In the end, it comes down to a simple choice. We can spend the next two years arguing with one another, trapped in stale debates, mired in gridlock, unable to make progress in solving the serious problems facing our country. We can stand still while our competitors – like China and others around the world – try to pass us by, making the critical decisions that will allow them to gain an edge in new industries.
Or we can do what the American people are demanding that we do. We can move forward. We can promote new jobs and businesses by harnessing the talents and ingenuity of our people. We can take the necessary steps to help the next generation – instead of just worrying about the next election. We can live up to an allegiance far stronger than our membership in any political party. And that’s the allegiance we hold to our country.
Thank you.

global warming Joe Biden Bush tax cuts Rubio Charlie Crist

According to Rush, Politico Will Report that the GOP Establishment/Entitlement Party is Plotting an Attack on Governor Palin/Open Thread

If you need any more incentive to contribute to the Midterm Elections SarahPAC Money Bomb, here it is. The actual article isn't out yet but Rush Limbaugh is reporting that he received an e-mail from Mike Allen of Politico about a story that it is set to publish:Now, folks, I want to tell you something here. I saw that... Where did I see this? Oh! Oh! I didn't have a chance to reply to it. I got an e-mail from Mike Allen of The Politico last night. They're working on a story; they may have already run it. Some Republican leader has told them that the Republican leadership is right now as we speak coalescing to find somebody to oppose Sarah Palin. They didn't identify whoever this "Republican leader is," so I can't tell you who it is, but they say that there's a Republican talking to them at Politico that they are trying to find somebody to beat back Palin, from the Republican establishment, because they are convinced that if Palin is the nominee, the party loses. That's, at least, what they say. It could also be they're scared to death that Palin wins it's the end of them: The Republican establishment. Mike Allen wanted to take my reply, and I got his e-mail in the midst of a whole bunch other stuff. I just now remembered it so I haven't had a chance to reply. But let's see. This kind of thing, I think the reason I didn't drop everything and reply is 'cause the little antenna go up. It could be a disinformation campaign before the election. Why write a story right now about Palin in 2012? What's the point of running a story like that right now if not then to sow dissention in the ranks? Spread the word about the money-bomb if you cannot contribute. Treat this thread as the open one for the evening.In any event, here's the news:-Here's a sneak peak of the second part of her interview with Entertainment Tonight that will air tonight.-If Karl Rove objects to Palin?s show, what would he have said about Reagan?-In case you missed it, PalinTV has her speech at the Joe Miller rally and a new sneak-peak at an episode for her documentary.-Sarah Palin: Is There Anything She Can't Do?-Tea Party Slams Rove-Rove?s Palin criticism provokes backlash from supporters who label him Biden of the right-Rush rates her higher than any of the other potential presidential candidates.Pass along the following campaign ad from Joe Miller:

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Presidential Proclamation--Military Family Month

Castro illegal immigrant Pakistani The View gubernatorial candidate

Friday, October 29, 2010

According to Rush, Politico Will Report that the GOP Establishment/Entitlement Party is Plotting an Attack on Governor Palin/Open Thread

John Kerry George Will George Bush global warming Joe Biden

Presidential Proclamation--National Family Caregivers Month

Release Time:

For Immediate Release

-------
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

Every day, family members, friends, neighbors, and concerned individuals across America provide essential attention and assistance to their loved ones. Many individuals in need of care -- including children, elders, and persons with disabilities -- would have difficulty remaining safely in their homes and community without the support of their relatives and caregivers.
Caregivers often look after multiple generations of family members. Their efforts are vital to the quality of life of countless American seniors, bringing comfort and friendship to these treasured citizens. However, this labor of love can result in physical, psychological, and financial hardship for caregivers, and research suggests they often put their own health and well-being at risk while assisting loved ones. Through the National Family Caregiver Support Program, individuals can help their loved ones remain comfortably in the home and receive assistance with their caregiving responsibilities. This program provides information, assistance, counseling, training, support groups, and respite care for caregivers across our country.
My Administration's Middle Class Task Force, led by Vice President Joe Biden, has made supporting family caregivers a priority, and we are working to assist caregivers as they juggle work, filial, and financial responsibilities. We made important progress with this year's Affordable Care Act, and because of this landmark legislation, Americans will be able to take advantage of the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports (CLASS) Program. This voluntary insurance program will help individuals with long-term care needs to maintain independent living, as well as compensate family caregivers for their devoted work.
Our businesses and companies can also contribute to families' ability to care for their loved ones in need. By offering flexible work arrangements and paid leave when caregiving duties require employees to miss work, employers can enable workers with caregiver responsibilities to balance work and family obligations more easily. Such efforts impact countless lives across our Nation, easing concerns and contributing to the well-being of individuals and families as they go about their daily lives.
During National Family Caregivers Month, we honor the millions of Americans who give endlessly of themselves to provide for the health and well-being of a beloved family member. Through their countless hours of service to their families and communities, they are a shining example of our Nation's great capacity to care for each other.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2010 as National Family Caregivers Month. I encourage all Americans to pay tribute to those who provide care for their family members, friends, and neighbors in need.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-ninth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.
BARACK OBAMA

Newt Gingrich Huckabee BP oil spill democrates

Phone Banking? (Balloon-juice.com)

Feedzilla

bill clinton Juan Williams racial controversy U.S. banks Charlie Rangel

Statement by the President on the Tsunami in Indonesia

Release Time:

For Immediate Release

Michelle and I are deeply saddened by the loss of life, injuries, and damage that have occurred as a result of the recent earthquake and tsunami in West Sumatra. At the same time, I am heartened and encouraged by the remarkable resiliency of the Indonesian people and the commitment of their Government to rapidly assist the victims. As a friend of Indonesia, the United States stands ready to help in any way. Meanwhile, our thoughts and prayers are with the Indonesian people and all those affected by this tragedy.

harry reid barney franks obamacare socialized medicine socialism

Palin Campaigns for Joe Miller/Even Liberal Nate Silver Will Not Add the Hays Research Group Poll to His Model/Open Thread

Governor Palin will campaign for Joe Miller tonight in Anchorage at 7:00 PM Alaska standard time. Here's more information on the event. Let us know in the comments if you plan on going. In any event, here's the news:-Her full interview on Entertainment Tonight will air at 7:30 PM. Here was a preview.-In case you missed it, please pass along Dan Riehl's idea to every Alaskan you know.-Even liberal Nate Silver will not use the Hays poll in his model. Here was our earlier post on the hilarious poll that was released today.-Mama Grizzlies are on the march in Beverly Hills.-Karl Rove's hypocrisy.-In case you missed it, she talked to Beck and Hannity today.-The Tea Party Express will run two ads on Miller's behalf.-If you are in Atlanta, you can get a sneak-peak of her series. Here was the NY Post's preview of the show.What else is going on tonight?

barney franks obamacare socialized medicine socialism stem cell

Blue Dog Coalition to Face Post-Election Shake-up

The Blue Dog Coalition of fiscally conservative Democratic House members is likely to face a major upheaval after the election. That?s because the drubbing that Democrats might receive should send some Blue Dogs back home, Roll Call reports. In addition, one of the group?s main founders, Rep. John Tanner of Tennessee, is retiring.
?We don?t know what the leadership positions will be like, because we don?t know the outcome of the election,? says Rep. Jim Cooper, D-Tenn., a senior blue dog who said the group may well lose half of its 54 members in a Republican blowout.
With Tanner out, Rep. Allen Boyd of Florida may be elevated to a leadership role. The blue dogs respect him for his policy and fundraising skills. And he?s close to House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, who consistently has sought good relations with the group. Moderate Democrats formed the coalition after Republicans seized control of Congress in the 1994 elections.

� Newsmax. All rights reserved.

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Attention Alaska Readers: Assist Joe Miller Through 'Operation Alaska Chaos'

It is extremely important that all our Alaska readers read this thoroughly and sign up now to be on the write-in candidate list. If you know someone in Alaska contact them now and get them to sign up too.This is a one day operation and has to be done today, it only takes a couple of minutes and can make a big difference in the outcome of this election.By Dan Riehl at Big Government.If you?re an Alaska resident and qualified to run for Senate, Big Government wants you to take action today to highlight the chaos brought about by Lisa Murkowski?s seemingly unending quest for power with her write-in campaign. But you must act today.[...]What you can do is make sure that your name, too, is listed as a write-in candidate for Senate from Alaska by election officials simply by completing two forms and following the accompanying instructions.Here is a one page candidate registration form. Here is the appropriate financial disclosure form. If even one qualified Alaskan completes the forms and follows the instructions, a significant statement will have been made.Read more from Dan on how to do this and why it's necessary here.

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Remarks by the First Lady at the Women's Conference with California First Lady Maria Shriver

Charlie Crist Scott Brown Congressional Budget Office Michael Steele John Boehner