There were no real surprises as last night's "American Idol" elimination. Kady Malloy, Luke Menard, Asia'h Epperson, and little Danny Noriega were sent packing.
And now it's on to the "final 12" part of the series, with a new set and the Beatles catalog open to contestants.
Don'tcha FEEL the excitement?!
07 March 2008
06 March 2008
A Snapshot Against McCain
SurveyUSA has just finished two sets of polling in all 50 states in an effort to see how both Democrats do against John McCain in the Electoral College. Needless to say, they both win...Hillary barely, Obama with a bit more comfort:
Clinton vs McCain:
Clinton vs McCain:
Clinton - 276 electoral votesObama vs. McCain:
McCain - 262 electoral votes
(270 needed to win)
My buddies Ben and Larry will be happy to see this result. Truth be told, I am as well. But the politico in me sees red flags. First and foremost, Clinton loses to McCain in Oregon and Washington. These are two states that haven't gone Republican since 1984. They went for Dukakis for crying out loud. If she can't hold on to the core Dukakis states, then what's to keep others from slipping out of her grasp after a bruising general election campaign?
To be fair, she puts her native Arkansas back in the Democratic column (her husband won his home state in both of his elections); and seems to be leading in Florida (that would be poetic justice for the 2000 debacle).
Other red flags...her margins in states where she is leading are pretty small, and her margins in most of the states she is losing are tremendous - which leads me to believe that if Sen. Clinton were to pull out the victory reflected in this poll, it would more than likely come with a popular vote loss. And I don't think the nation could bear another haywire election.
Oh...fair is fair...it would be oh-so-sweet to see President Hillary Clinton take the oath of office in front of Dubya having won the office the same way he did. But I'd rather she didn't.
Obama - 280 electoral votes
McCain - 258 electoral votes
Barack Obama's overall electoral vote lead is only slightly higher than Clinton's, however a deeper study of the numbers shows this map as a solid base from which to expand. His lead in the blue states is a bit stronger than hers, and McCain's lead in the red states isn't as strong against Obama as against Clinton. If Obama were to win as the poll shows, there is no doubt he would win the popular vote.
He keeps Oregon and Washington in the Democratic column; and while he throws Pennsylvania and New Jersey back to the GOP, he picks up North Dakota and Virginia - two states that haven't voted Democratic in a presidential election since 1964.
He would even win 2 of Nebraska's 5 electoral votes (like Maine, the state divides it's Electoral College votes based on results in each congressional district). Now THAT is quite the feat! Nebraska is one of the most Republican states in the nation when it comes to presidential voting (Bush won 64% of the vote there in 2004, 62% in 2000). If Obama can make in-roads there, then who's to say he can't pick off another super-red state (like, say, his birth state of Kansas)?
Mr. Brightside
I have a long day ahead of me so this will be my one and only post for a Thursday.
Well, it looks like Clinton and Obama will be duking this thing out for another couple of months. While it would be nice to have it settled now, remember a couple of things: 1. In 1992 Bill Clinton didn't have the nomination wrapped up until April or May; and 2. As long as the Democratic race remains undecided, new voters will be coming out in droves, meaning more votes in congressional primaries down the ballot and that many more votes in November. Superb news for America, I'd say!
Just looking at the bright side, is all.
In the mean time, Democrats can take a little solace in this: Whoever wins the party's nomination is going to get a boost from this little Rose Garden lovefest. It's pure campaign gold!
He really is Bush's little lap dog, isn't he?
Well, it looks like Clinton and Obama will be duking this thing out for another couple of months. While it would be nice to have it settled now, remember a couple of things: 1. In 1992 Bill Clinton didn't have the nomination wrapped up until April or May; and 2. As long as the Democratic race remains undecided, new voters will be coming out in droves, meaning more votes in congressional primaries down the ballot and that many more votes in November. Superb news for America, I'd say!
Just looking at the bright side, is all.
In the mean time, Democrats can take a little solace in this: Whoever wins the party's nomination is going to get a boost from this little Rose Garden lovefest. It's pure campaign gold!
He really is Bush's little lap dog, isn't he?
05 March 2008
"Idol," Week 3: The Girls
It's the girls turn to belt out songs from the 80s. Will we hear any Cyndi Lauper? Let't find out...
Asiah Epperson
"I Wanna Dance With Somebody"
It's always risky to do a Whitney Houston song. When she was at her peak, that voice was something to behold. And I'm afraid Asiah was nowhere near Ms. Houston's league tonight.
Kady Malloy
"Forever"
I have no idea what song this is. She caterwauled her way through the whole thing. It was pure ka-ka!
Amanda Overmeyer
"I Hate Myself For Loving You"
This was a great song choice for her, and she belted right out of that studio. Nicely done!
Carly Smithson
"I Drove All Night"
There's the Cyndi song!!!! And once again, Carly turned in one the best performances of the week. She NAILED this! (Simon is an idiot...this song was just fine for her.)
Kristy Lee Cook
"Faithfully"
Ok...she took a classic Journey rocker and ... well ... I'm not sure what she did with it. It was sort of half rocker, half country, with a little bit of karaoke thrown in. I didn't like it.
Makadingdong Titikaka
"Against All Odds"
A rather weak performance. Her timing seemed a bit off in spots. Pretty sloppy.
Brooke White
"Love Is A Battlefield"
I absolutely loved this! If she recorded this song exactly as she sang it tonight, it would be a huge hit. Superb! Best of the night.
Syesha Mercado
"Saving All My Love"
Yet another attempt at a Whitney song. She did better than Asiah and did an admireable job with the vocals but still...it wasn't quite Whitney now, was it?
And, like last night, OH. MY. GAWD! How many freekin' pills did Paula take before airtime tonight!?! She is SO off center this week!
Asiah Epperson
"I Wanna Dance With Somebody"
It's always risky to do a Whitney Houston song. When she was at her peak, that voice was something to behold. And I'm afraid Asiah was nowhere near Ms. Houston's league tonight.
Kady Malloy
"Forever"
I have no idea what song this is. She caterwauled her way through the whole thing. It was pure ka-ka!
Amanda Overmeyer
"I Hate Myself For Loving You"
This was a great song choice for her, and she belted right out of that studio. Nicely done!
Carly Smithson
"I Drove All Night"
There's the Cyndi song!!!! And once again, Carly turned in one the best performances of the week. She NAILED this! (Simon is an idiot...this song was just fine for her.)
Kristy Lee Cook
"Faithfully"
Ok...she took a classic Journey rocker and ... well ... I'm not sure what she did with it. It was sort of half rocker, half country, with a little bit of karaoke thrown in. I didn't like it.
Makadingdong Titikaka
"Against All Odds"
A rather weak performance. Her timing seemed a bit off in spots. Pretty sloppy.
Brooke White
"Love Is A Battlefield"
I absolutely loved this! If she recorded this song exactly as she sang it tonight, it would be a huge hit. Superb! Best of the night.
Syesha Mercado
"Saving All My Love"
Yet another attempt at a Whitney song. She did better than Asiah and did an admireable job with the vocals but still...it wasn't quite Whitney now, was it?
And, like last night, OH. MY. GAWD! How many freekin' pills did Paula take before airtime tonight!?! She is SO off center this week!
Eye Candy
Ok...enough about last night's primary elections. Let's focus on what REALLY matters...hot frat boys horsin' around! (What ARE they doing?)
In Perspective
From the Washington Post:
That said, I just don't see how the math helps her in the long run. She needed at least 62% of the vote in all four states to make a dent in Obama's delegate and national vote leads. She fell well short of that goal, making the climb to the nomination steeper still.
None the less, three solid wins puts some wind in the sails of Sen. Clinton's campaign. She can keep going and see how things turn out in the next set of states. But again, she would have to perform impossibly well to have a prayer of catching up to Obama's overall lead.
As for Obama, this will test his mettle. He needs to prove he can bounce back from the vicious attacks the Clintons threw at him and regain his once solid footing. What the Clintons did to him is nothing compared to what the Republican machine will do this summer and fall. It shouldn't be too hard. He was knocked on his ass last night, but he's not bloodied and he still has a pretty substantial advantage going forward.
Can Clinton still win this thing? You bet. But it's going to be awfully hard.
How should Obama proceed? It's time to stop being Mr. Nice Guy. We're in the home stretch and now is the time to beat Clinton at her own game. He needs to grab that kitchen sink she threw at him this past week and throw right back at her. Remind voters of the psycho-drama of the 90s and ask them if they really want to go through that again. Confront Hillary when she attacks. (Rezko and real estate? Does "Ms. Whitewater" really want to go there?)
It will be a delicate balance. Obama is running on the promise of changing the tone in D.C., but in order to change the tone he has to win this thing. And that means fighting back hard.
So, roll up those sleeves Sen. Obama. It's time to get those hands a little muddy!
The slim margin in the Texas popular vote and an additional caucus process in which she trailed made clear that she would not win enough delegates to put a major dent in Sen. Barack Obama's lead. And regardless of the results, she emerged from the crucible of Ohio and Texas with a campaign mired in debt and riven by dissension.Last night's results don't surprise me in the least. In fact, I predicted as much this past weekend (here) and yesterday (here).
That said, I just don't see how the math helps her in the long run. She needed at least 62% of the vote in all four states to make a dent in Obama's delegate and national vote leads. She fell well short of that goal, making the climb to the nomination steeper still.
None the less, three solid wins puts some wind in the sails of Sen. Clinton's campaign. She can keep going and see how things turn out in the next set of states. But again, she would have to perform impossibly well to have a prayer of catching up to Obama's overall lead.
As for Obama, this will test his mettle. He needs to prove he can bounce back from the vicious attacks the Clintons threw at him and regain his once solid footing. What the Clintons did to him is nothing compared to what the Republican machine will do this summer and fall. It shouldn't be too hard. He was knocked on his ass last night, but he's not bloodied and he still has a pretty substantial advantage going forward.
Can Clinton still win this thing? You bet. But it's going to be awfully hard.
How should Obama proceed? It's time to stop being Mr. Nice Guy. We're in the home stretch and now is the time to beat Clinton at her own game. He needs to grab that kitchen sink she threw at him this past week and throw right back at her. Remind voters of the psycho-drama of the 90s and ask them if they really want to go through that again. Confront Hillary when she attacks. (Rezko and real estate? Does "Ms. Whitewater" really want to go there?)
It will be a delicate balance. Obama is running on the promise of changing the tone in D.C., but in order to change the tone he has to win this thing. And that means fighting back hard.
So, roll up those sleeves Sen. Obama. It's time to get those hands a little muddy!
Clinton's Trifecta!
She takes Rhode Island, Ohio, and Texas!The results:
Ohio:The best news of the night is that Democrats turned out in huge numbers in all four states (even battling the elements in Ohio, apparently). If they are able to get those voters back to the polls in November (especially among the hispanic electorate), then it shouldn't be all that hard to beat Sen. McCain in November.
Clinton 54%
Obama 46%
Rhode Island:
Clinton 58%
Obama 41%
Uncommitted 1%
Texas:
Clinton 51%
Obama 49%
Vermont:
Obama 60%
Clinton 38%
As for the all important delegate count, Obama still has a comfortable lead. The math is still being worked out, but a cursory glance shows Clinton winning 185 delegates in the four contests last night and Obama winning 184. Despite losing Texas by a small margin, the state's formula for delegate assignment helped him tremendously. Overall that gives Obama a rough total of 1,307 delegates to 1,175 for Clinton.
Adding last night's four states to the mix, Obama still leads in the national popular vote:
Obama 52%
Clinton 48%
If you include the vote in the non-binding Florida primary, he still leads:
Obama: 50.5%
Clinton: 49.5%
Since only one name appeared on the ballot in the unofficial Michigan primary, those numbers are not counted.
Calif Supreme Court Hears Marriage Case
And it seems they don't know whether to scratch their watch or wind their butt. From the LA Times:
Give me a break Supremes! Just do the right thing.
The California Supreme Court appeared divided today over the constitutionality of the state's ban on same-sex marriage. During three hours of arguments by lawyers for and against gay marriage, Justice Joyce L. Kennard questioned whether "the state has effectively conceded there is no valid grounds for distinction" between domestic partnership and marriage. But at least three of the seven justices repeatedly noted that California voters have defined marriage as a union between a man and a woman, and that the public might not be ready to embrace same-sex marriage. Justice Carol A. Corrigan indicated that it might be best to leave the question to the public, whose perception of gay marriage, she said, is in the process of 'evolving.' She also asked lawyers to show her where the state constitution addressed same-sex marriage."They really only need to look at one simple thing...gay marriage in Massachusetts, where it's been legal for a couple of years now. No falling into the ocean, no lighting strikes from above, no breakdown of family and straight marriage.
Give me a break Supremes! Just do the right thing.
04 March 2008
Too Close To Call
As of 9:07pm, Texas is still too close to call. Obama and Clinton have held small leads at different points off and on all evening. I'm going to sign off for the night and log on in the morning to see what happened.
Two things: Whatever the results, Obama still holds a lead in the delegate race. Clinton's win in Ohio will keep her campaign going for another month or so, but the way I see it this race is still Obama's to lose.
That said, it's time for him to stop being Mr. Nice Guy. The Clinton camp threw everything AND the kitchen sink at him this week and, unfortunately, it worked. He needs to unload in kind over the next week or so. Pound back...and pound back hard. He's played a pretty good chess game up to this point. Now it's time to go in for the kill.
Hasta manana...
Two things: Whatever the results, Obama still holds a lead in the delegate race. Clinton's win in Ohio will keep her campaign going for another month or so, but the way I see it this race is still Obama's to lose.
That said, it's time for him to stop being Mr. Nice Guy. The Clinton camp threw everything AND the kitchen sink at him this week and, unfortunately, it worked. He needs to unload in kind over the next week or so. Pound back...and pound back hard. He's played a pretty good chess game up to this point. Now it's time to go in for the kill.
Hasta manana...
Dealing With Loss
Quote of the Night:
I just had a Jager shot, and hope to get drunk very soon.-Obama backer Andrew Sullivan, taking in tonight's primary results.
"Idol," Week 3: The Guys
Week one featured music from the 1960s and last week it was the 1970s, so...shocker!...this week it's the 80s! Here we go...
Luke Menard
"Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go"
Are you kidding me? That su-HUCKED!!
David Archuleta
"Another Day In Paradise"
Another knock-out performance from the kid from Utah! This was a very nice intereptation of a classic Phil Collins chart-topper. Not as stupendous as last week's performance, but I loved it none the less.
Danny Noriega
"Tainted Love"
Yet again, he hacked a classic song to pieces. This was pure shit.
David Hernandez
"It's All Coming Back To Me Now"
He has a superb voice and this song showcased it in spades!
Michael Johns
"Don't You (Forget About Me)"
Wow...for the second week in a row this guy, who I thought was one of the better singers during the early Hollywood rounds, disappointed a bit. Has he shot his wad already? I'm beginning to think perhaps he has.
David Cook
"Hello"
His guitar playing in the intro was horrid. That said, he picked it up later and I actually liked his "Lionel Ritchie gone grunge" take on this track. Not bad at all.
Jason Castro
"Hallelujah"
Pretty good job tonight on this endearing classic from the late Jeff Buckley. He did enough to keep himself safe for next week.
Chikezie
"All The Woman I Need"
Average. Lame. Just ok. As Simon called it..."cabaret."
The best of the night? Both Davids.
Who should go home? Danny and Luke.
Oh...and PS...what the HELL was Paula smoking tonight? Gawd, she was verbose!
Luke Menard
"Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go"
Are you kidding me? That su-HUCKED!!
David Archuleta
"Another Day In Paradise"
Another knock-out performance from the kid from Utah! This was a very nice intereptation of a classic Phil Collins chart-topper. Not as stupendous as last week's performance, but I loved it none the less.
Danny Noriega
"Tainted Love"
Yet again, he hacked a classic song to pieces. This was pure shit.
David Hernandez
"It's All Coming Back To Me Now"
He has a superb voice and this song showcased it in spades!
Michael Johns
"Don't You (Forget About Me)"
Wow...for the second week in a row this guy, who I thought was one of the better singers during the early Hollywood rounds, disappointed a bit. Has he shot his wad already? I'm beginning to think perhaps he has.
David Cook
"Hello"
His guitar playing in the intro was horrid. That said, he picked it up later and I actually liked his "Lionel Ritchie gone grunge" take on this track. Not bad at all.
Jason Castro
"Hallelujah"
Pretty good job tonight on this endearing classic from the late Jeff Buckley. He did enough to keep himself safe for next week.
Chikezie
"All The Woman I Need"
Average. Lame. Just ok. As Simon called it..."cabaret."
The best of the night? Both Davids.
Who should go home? Danny and Luke.
Oh...and PS...what the HELL was Paula smoking tonight? Gawd, she was verbose!
Snatching Defeat
Forget who might answer that "red phone" next year! The current president is still George W. Bush, and he's still an imbecile:
I appreciate the fact that [Lt. Gen. Ray Odierno] really snatched defeat out of the jaws of those who were trying to defeat us in Iraq.
John McCain (BushBitch-AZ)
Bush's little bitch, Sen. John McCain of Arizona, has clinched the Republican Party nomination for president tonight, with primary victories in Rhode Island, Vermont, Ohio, and Texas.He will have lunch with President Bush tomorrow, where the current chief executive is expected to ask, "Who's Yer Daddy?"
McCain is making his long-winded speech as I type this, and if I hear him say "my friends" one more fuckin' time I'm gonna throw something at the TV.
One More Time
If yesterday's backdoor endorsement of McCain didn't lead you to a total rejection of Hillary Clinton then perhaps my endorsement of Barack Obama, posted last month, might persuade you. To read it, click here.
Drinking the Kool-Aid
Several new polls show Democratic voters in Texas drinking the Clinton Kool-Aid:
One bright spot in polling news...SurveyUSA, who has been spot-on during most of the primary season, has Obama up 1-point in Texas:
My gut still tells me Clinton will win both Ohio and Texas tonight. Of course I hope I'm wrong. That said, she would need at least 62% of the popular vote in both states to catch up to Obama in the delegate count. I don't see that happening. But even a small victory in both states will give the illusion of yet another Clinton comeback, and this nomination race will drag on.
Ugh.
It's gonna be a long night.
Reuters/C-Span:It makes me wonder if the former First Lady's vicious and smarmy attacks have worked in stopping Sen. Obama's momentum. Yesterday she practically endorsed the Republican candidate over her fellow Democrat should she lose the nomination. And if she thinks I want to vote for a Joe Lieberman-esque wench this November, she better think again!
Clinton 47%
Obama 44%
Insider Advantage:
Clinton 49%
Obama 44%
WFAA/Belo:
Clinton 46%
Obama 45%
One bright spot in polling news...SurveyUSA, who has been spot-on during most of the primary season, has Obama up 1-point in Texas:
Obama 49%And Markos, who has been on a roll lately, is predicting a blowout for Obama in Texas. I think he's over confident but a guy can hope, can't he?
Clinton 48%
My gut still tells me Clinton will win both Ohio and Texas tonight. Of course I hope I'm wrong. That said, she would need at least 62% of the popular vote in both states to catch up to Obama in the delegate count. I don't see that happening. But even a small victory in both states will give the illusion of yet another Clinton comeback, and this nomination race will drag on.
Ugh.
It's gonna be a long night.
03 March 2008
The Disloyal Democrat
So much for a unified Democratic Party. Hillary Clinton, on the campaign trail today:
From AmericaBlog: Rachel Maddow's reaction to Clinton's remarks:
Clinton's comments today were exactly the sort of snide remarks that, fairly in this case, cause people to look at her and think, "What a fucking bitch!"
Just as health care may be the issue that moves you solidly into the Clinton camp, or a patriotic progressive agenda the issue that puts you in Obama's column, Sen. Clinton's absolutely scuzzy campaign reinforces my contention that I cast the right vote last month. And I urge the voters in Ohio, Texas, Vermont, and Rhode Island not to nominate this woman for the presidency. After that little pro-McCain diatribe, I must say that I am ashamed she is a member of the Democratic Party.
If she is the nominee, myself and a slew of other Democratic-leaning voters will be in quite the quandary come this November (and no, that does NOT mean a vote for McCain).
Update: The Jed Report has the goods on Hillary's "experience"...
I think that I have a lifetime of experience that I will bring to the White House. I know Senator McCain has a lifetime of experience to the White House. And Senator Obama has a speech he gave in 2002.This is probably one of the most repugnant comments she has made during this campaign. For someone who has promised a unified Democratic Party once the nominee is chosen, Sen. Clinton handed the Republicans quite the sound bite, didn't she?
From AmericaBlog: Rachel Maddow's reaction to Clinton's remarks:
This is what you say if you want to be McCain's choice for Vice President. It is not what you say if you are running for the Democratic nomination.And Keith Olbermann's gentlemanly response:
Unbelievable.I, on the other hand, don't have to be such a gentleman.
Clinton's comments today were exactly the sort of snide remarks that, fairly in this case, cause people to look at her and think, "What a fucking bitch!"
Just as health care may be the issue that moves you solidly into the Clinton camp, or a patriotic progressive agenda the issue that puts you in Obama's column, Sen. Clinton's absolutely scuzzy campaign reinforces my contention that I cast the right vote last month. And I urge the voters in Ohio, Texas, Vermont, and Rhode Island not to nominate this woman for the presidency. After that little pro-McCain diatribe, I must say that I am ashamed she is a member of the Democratic Party.
If she is the nominee, myself and a slew of other Democratic-leaning voters will be in quite the quandary come this November (and no, that does NOT mean a vote for McCain).
Update: The Jed Report has the goods on Hillary's "experience"...
Peeing. My. Pants.
A brilliant new website that takes the Garfield out of "Garfield" - and it actually works, making Jon look all the more tragic.
It's absolutely fuckin' brilliant.
Click here and take a look.
Eye Candy: The 'Bangers & Mash' Edition
Who would have thought that it would be that geeky little tyke, Prince Harry, who would become so freekin' sexy...
...or that he'd have such a massive "banger." I mean day-yum...the boy is hung like a Shetland pony!
...or that he'd have such a massive "banger." I mean day-yum...the boy is hung like a Shetland pony!
The Courage of Lawrence King
Well worth the read...this is an email from my buddy Don regarding the horrible murder last month of 15-year-old Lawrence King by 14-year-old Brandon McInerney. I post it here, in its entirety, because Don makes his points much more passionately than I ever could. To Don I say, "thank you, mi amigo." To my readers, I urge you to give it read...
On February 12th, an openly gay 15-year-old boy named Larry, who was an eighth-grader in Oxnard, California, was murdered by a fellow eighth-grader and 14-year-old boy named Brandon. Brandon shot Larry in the back of the head with two bullets. Larry was a foster child and had recently come out of the closet as gay to his classmates. Brandon murdered Larry because he was gay.
Days before he was murdered, Larry asked his killer to be his Valentine. The idea that Larry - another boy and a homosexual - would want to be his Valentine was so threatening and so awful and so horrific to Brandon, that killing Larry seemed to be the right thing to do.
Brandon’s defense attorney is already talking about this murderous attack as a “gay panic” response by Brandon to Larry’s affection for him. Just so I’m clear, a “gay panic” defense is used by defense attorneys when a straight person kills a gay person because they were so disgusted by the interest from the gay person that they snap psychologically. In essence, that’s like saying because I was so disgusted by someone of an ethnicity or religion different than my own expressing interest in me that I would be justified in killing them.
I was aware of this story, but this morning when I read the new information about Larry asking Brandon to be his Valentine, I broke down and wept at my computer. I wept for a child who was murdered for taking steps toward accepting himself. I wept for another child so blinded by the hatred and disgust for gay people that exists in our society that he took another child’s life. I wept for every young gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender child too scared to believe that they could ever experience the love and innocence of Valentine’s Day. And I wept for a world so consumed with hatred, ignorance, fear, and disgust for homosexuals, that it would lead one child to murder another child over a crush.
Larry is my hero. I sit here in awe of the strength and courage it took to begin to accept himself at the age of 15. The path to self acceptance as a gay person is challenging at best and too often leads to suicide for children and young adults.
I know Larry is in heaven right now with God, Harvey Milk, Matthew Sheppard, Simmie Williams, Jr., and the thousands of other gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people who have been murdered in my lifetime because they dared to be themselves in a society which refuses to reject the hatred and fear that empower people to commit hate crimes against us.
The hate crime which resulted in Larry’s death is not an isolated incident. This month alone 17-year-old Simmie Williams, Jr. was gunned down in Florida in an apparent hate crime and a man eating at a restaurant in Florida with his partner was beaten by another restaurant patron for looking at him and saying hello. The attacker repeatedly used the slur “faggot” as he beat the man.
Every time someone uses a slur like “faggot”, every time someone perpetuates a gay stereotype, every time a politician uses gay rights as a fear tactic to get votes and campaign contributions or denies us our civil rights, every time a person of “faith” describes us as immoral and sinful, and every time someone is beaten or murdered because of their sexuality – another drop is added to the torrent of hatred and fear that floods our society and motivates in hate crimes.
And every time we personally sit back while any of these activities occur and fail to reject them – we are responsible too. We cannot bring Larry back, nor can we solve this problem overnight, but the next time you witness bigotry or hatred, in ANY form, fight it!
I encourage you to Google “Lawrence King” and “Simmie Williams” to learn more.
Clinton and the Gays
It seems another key Clinton demographic group is abandoning her for Obama.
(Hat tip Chris, by way of Beth.)
(Hat tip Chris, by way of Beth.)
02 March 2008
The Hagee Issue
Josh Marshall, putting the endorsement of Sen. John McCain by anti-Semitic homophobe, John Hagee into perspective:
Let's be clear what happened here. John McCain solicited the support and endorsement of Hagee and then he held a joint appearance with Hagee in which he formally endorsed him. In these terms, Obama has no connection whatsoever to Farrakhan. He's just someone who said positive things about Obama. So the premise for even asking Obama is dubious in itself, whereas McCain has openly embraced Hagee.McCain's general election campaign is certainly off to quite a shitty start, isn't it?
Emmys Consider New Award
News Item: The Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (the folks who hand out the coveted Emmy Awards) have announced that they may add a new category to the awards mix next year...Best Reality Show Host.
That sound you hear is the blood rushing from Ryan Seacrest's over-sized head to his now very hard penis.
That sound you hear is the blood rushing from Ryan Seacrest's over-sized head to his now very hard penis.
Come Back, Joe
It's no secret that my first choice for the Democratic presidential nod was Sen. Joe Biden. In my opinion, he personified both Barack Obama's hope for change and bipartisan cooperation with Hillary Clinton's claims of experience. This guy has both qualities in spades over any of the candidates in either party. But after a dismal showing in the Iowa caucuses in January, Biden ended his quest for the presidency.
Whether we have a President Obama, a President Clinton, or even a President McCain next January, I think Joe Biden's presence in the cabinet of the next administration would prove to be beneficial to the country and to the globe.
Here is a major reason why I believe this. His knowledge of the most pressing international affairs is beyond reproach...
Whether we have a President Obama, a President Clinton, or even a President McCain next January, I think Joe Biden's presence in the cabinet of the next administration would prove to be beneficial to the country and to the globe.
Here is a major reason why I believe this. His knowledge of the most pressing international affairs is beyond reproach...
Afghanistan’s fate is directly tied to Pakistan’s future and America’s security. When President Pervez Musharraf of Pakistan concluded that we were not serious about finishing the job in Afghanistan, he began to cut deals with extremists in his own country.
As a result, the border area remains a freeway of fundamentalism: the Taliban and Al Qaeda find sanctuary in Pakistan, while Pakistani suicide bombers wreak havoc in Afghanistan.
...If Afghanistan fails or Pakistan falls to fundamentalism, America will suffer a terrible setback. The candidates should tell Americans how they will handle what may be the next president’s most difficult challenge.
Chris Dodd For Majority Leader
And when the next president nominates Joe Biden to their cabinet, I would really like to see that nomination guided to the Senate floor for confirmation by a new Senate Majority Leader. Harry Reid has proven hapless and ineffective in his role.
Who should replace him?
Without a doubt...Sen. Chris Dodd, of Connecticut.
Who should replace him?
Without a doubt...Sen. Chris Dodd, of Connecticut.
Storm Warning
So, voters head to the polls in Ohio, Texas, Vermont, and Rhode Island on Tuesday to cast votes in their presidential nominating contests. Conventional wisdom has it that Sen. Hillary Clinton will need to blow Sen. Barack Obama out of the water by significant margins in both Ohio and Texas in order to have any realistic chance at the Democratic nomination.
Clinton leads in Ohio polls, but her margin has dwindled from 17-points at the beginning of February to just one-point this weekend. In Texas, Obama has taken a 16-point lead for Clinton and turned into a 4-point lead for himself. Will it be enough to put him over the top in the Lone Star State?
I have to tell you...I'm nervous.
There has been early voting in Texas for the last couple of weeks, and those votes usually benefit Sen. Clinton. However, there have been reports that Obama's ground operation there has been stellar and that that may keep a strong early vote lead for Clinton pretty low - or erase it all together.
I am no expert on the voting trends of Texas, but despite Obama's slight lead in polling and the reports of a solid get-out-the-vote operation, there is something in my gut telling me that Texas could very well swing to Clinton on Tuesday night. I don't know if it's a distrust of the polling numbers or what, but I guess I just won't believe Obama will win until I actually see raw vote numbers.
Pins and needles, I tell ya...pins and needles.
As for Ohio, I am fairly certain Clinton will win there. And while I don't think her victory margin will be double-digit, I think it will be a bit more comfortable than current polling predicts.
Whatever happens in both states, the nomination will still be Obama's to lose. The delegate count still favors his candidacy. But if Clinton wins both big states, even by small margins, the pereception of a revitalized Hillary candidacy will knock Obama down a few pegs.
Clinton leads in Ohio polls, but her margin has dwindled from 17-points at the beginning of February to just one-point this weekend. In Texas, Obama has taken a 16-point lead for Clinton and turned into a 4-point lead for himself. Will it be enough to put him over the top in the Lone Star State?
I have to tell you...I'm nervous.
There has been early voting in Texas for the last couple of weeks, and those votes usually benefit Sen. Clinton. However, there have been reports that Obama's ground operation there has been stellar and that that may keep a strong early vote lead for Clinton pretty low - or erase it all together.
I am no expert on the voting trends of Texas, but despite Obama's slight lead in polling and the reports of a solid get-out-the-vote operation, there is something in my gut telling me that Texas could very well swing to Clinton on Tuesday night. I don't know if it's a distrust of the polling numbers or what, but I guess I just won't believe Obama will win until I actually see raw vote numbers.
Pins and needles, I tell ya...pins and needles.
As for Ohio, I am fairly certain Clinton will win there. And while I don't think her victory margin will be double-digit, I think it will be a bit more comfortable than current polling predicts.
Whatever happens in both states, the nomination will still be Obama's to lose. The delegate count still favors his candidacy. But if Clinton wins both big states, even by small margins, the pereception of a revitalized Hillary candidacy will knock Obama down a few pegs.
The Clinton Bridge
Quote of the Day:
And there is the key point in this primary campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination. Given an intelligent, inspiring, patriotic Democrat against a 72-year-old Republican who is SO yesterday, Americans will go with inspiration.
But put a yesterday Democrat up against the same yesterday Republican...well...just remember...this is a country that has voted for a Republican president in 7 of the last 10 presidential elections (6 if you factor in the popular vote in 2000).
Say it with me: Obama for president.
If the Clintons were the bridge to the 21st century, Obama IS the 21st century.-Representative Chet Edwards (Democrat-TX), as quoted by Kevin Cokely, anchor/reporter for KXAS-TV in Dallas, Texas.
And there is the key point in this primary campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination. Given an intelligent, inspiring, patriotic Democrat against a 72-year-old Republican who is SO yesterday, Americans will go with inspiration.
But put a yesterday Democrat up against the same yesterday Republican...well...just remember...this is a country that has voted for a Republican president in 7 of the last 10 presidential elections (6 if you factor in the popular vote in 2000).
Say it with me: Obama for president.
01 March 2008
29 February 2008
End of the Week Levity
A classic laugh riot from the foul mouthed kids of "South Park," Colorado...
(NOT safe for work!)
(NOT safe for work!)
Ellen on Larry
Ellen DeGeneres will take time out of her show today to make viewers aware of the horrible murder of a 15-year-old gay junior high school student in Oxnard, California earlier this month. And she nails it.
GOOD. FOR. HER.
GOOD. FOR. HER.
There's Nothing to See Here
News item: Oil topped $102.00 a barrel this morning.
President Bush, yesterday:
President Bush, yesterday:
Wait, what did you just say? You're predicting $4-a-gallon gasoline? I hadn't heard that?In case any of you ever wondered what it would look like like if J.R. Ewing and Office Barbrady conceived a child...just look at the miserable imbecile currently residing in the White House.
The Flag Flap
Rep. Jack Kingston (Republican-GA) shows Republican hypocrisy in spades:
Can we put this idiotic non-issue to rest now, please?
Can we put this idiotic non-issue to rest now, please?
"You Know I'm Right"
From Lynn Sweet of the Chicago Sun-Times:
On the campaign trail, Democratic front-runner Sen. Barack Obama...drew wild cheers as he told a mostly African-American crowd that parents need to shape up, turn off the TV, help their kids with their homework and stop letting them grow fat eating Popeyes chicken for breakfast.I am a strong believer in the theory that American parenting has become a joke and that something has to be done about it. But what to do? I am not a parent and never will be, so I haven't thought about a solution all that much. But a president who can inspire from his bully-pulpit is an excellent place to start.It's not good enough for you to say to your child, 'Do good in school,' and then when that child comes home, you got the TV set on, you got the radio on, you don't check their homework, there is not a book in the house, you've got the video game playing.
So turn off the TV set, put the video game away. Buy a little desk or put that child by the kitchen table. Watch them do their homework. If they don't know how to do it, give them help. If you don't know how to do it, call the teacher. Make them go to bed at a reasonable time. Keep them off the streets. Give ' em some breakfast. Come on. ... You know I am right.
"I'm a Proud Liberal Republican"
The dispirited Senator from Arizona, handing already weary conservatives more fodder:
28 February 2008
Carrico Out
I was shocked to see Robbie Carrico ousted on tonight's "American Idol." He wasn't the best, but he wasn't bad enough to go home so early in the season. I wasn't as shocked to see Jason Yeager go, but I think the "Vote for the Worst" crew are calling in for the hapless, messy Danny Noriega. Me thinks he is this year's Sanjaya.
I am more than happy to see Alexandrea Lushington and Alaina Whitaker go home. They were among the worst of the week.
I am more than happy to see Alexandrea Lushington and Alaina Whitaker go home. They were among the worst of the week.
"Dignity and Respect"
Heading into the final weekend before big primary votes in Ohio and Texas, the Obama campaign has bought major ad buys in four major gay newspapers: Outlook Weekly of Columbus, the Gay People's Chronicle of Cleveland, the Dallas Voice, and OutSmart of Houston.
Here is a generic copy of the ad, courtesy of Andy Towle:
Here is a generic copy of the ad, courtesy of Andy Towle:
Staring at the Ceiling
Quote of the Day:
I have read somewhere, although I can't find where, that Thomas rarely - if ever - writes opinions; that he does so only when forced (ie: the sole dissent).
Either way, the hapless Thomas must make the Bush family proud.
Hardly a case goes by without eight [Supreme Court] justices peppering lawyers with questions. Left, right and center, the justices ask and they ask and they ask. Sometimes they debate each other, leaving the lawyer at the podium helpless to jump in. Leaning back in his leather chair, often staring at the ceiling, [Clarence] Thomas never joins in.-Mark Sherman, of the Associated Press, on the fact that Thomas hasn't asked a question from the bench for at least two years.
I have read somewhere, although I can't find where, that Thomas rarely - if ever - writes opinions; that he does so only when forced (ie: the sole dissent).
Either way, the hapless Thomas must make the Bush family proud.
27 February 2008
"Idol," Week 2: The Girls
Another crappy night for the girls...
Carly Smithson
"Crazy On You"
Randy and his freekin' "pitch" critiques! She nailed this! I think this was a great song choice for her voice. Nice way to start the night. Fantastic job!
Syesha Mercado
"Me and Mr. Jones"
Apparently I'm not hearing what the judges are hearing tonight. I thought this was a fabulous, strong take on a classic R&B tune. The night got better with this performance. Nice arrangement, top-notch vocals.
Brooke White
"You're So Vain"
Yeah...I'm definitely not on the same page as the judges tonight. She was SO off on the chorus of this song. She seemed to be ok in the verses, but man...she fell really flat elsewhere. A bit disappointing...at least the way I heard it sitting here on my sofa.
Ramiele Malubay
"Don't Leave Me This Way"
Not the best performance; rather average, actually. She can definitely sing, but his was only an ok performance.
Kristy Lee Cook
"You're No Good"
Like Ramiele before her, Kristy Lee was only average tonight. She'll be back next week, but she won't be the biggest vote getter of the night.
Amanda Overmyer
"Carry On My Wayward Son"
That hair! There's something almost parody-like about it. I mean, it's like Whitesnake fucked Cruella Deville and Amanda was the spawn. The dancing was a bit much, as well. Honey, the 80s are over...come...join us here in the 21st century. Vocally she was strong in places, missed the mark in others.
Alaina Whitaker
"Hopelessly Devoted To You"
It's the night of mediocity. And the sad thing is, as in seasons past, one of these average-josephines will probably win the competition. That said, this was nothing special. Alaina didn't do herself any favors tonight.
Alexandrea Lushington
"If You Leave Me Now"
What an odd choice of song. I mean, it might have worked if she changed the arrangement a bit, but she used the exact original layout and it didn't work. It sounded like off-key karaoke. My judgement...it was the 2nd worst of the night. She may very well have knocked herself out of the contest with this.
Kady Malloy
"Magic Man"
What was with the oversized bedazzled dress? What a rag! As for the performance...like nails on a chalkboard. Crappy all around. She beat out Alexandrea for worst of the night with this hack job. She may sqeak through tomorrow night (never discount the teen-boy-masturbatory-vote), but if it were up to me she would be sent home.
Asiah Eepherson
"All By Myself"
Yet another odd song choice...and then she dropped the ball with it. Off key, lazy, and the vocal olypmics crap at the end doesn't make up for it. One of three worst of the night.
Carly Smithson
"Crazy On You"
Randy and his freekin' "pitch" critiques! She nailed this! I think this was a great song choice for her voice. Nice way to start the night. Fantastic job!
Syesha Mercado
"Me and Mr. Jones"
Apparently I'm not hearing what the judges are hearing tonight. I thought this was a fabulous, strong take on a classic R&B tune. The night got better with this performance. Nice arrangement, top-notch vocals.
Brooke White
"You're So Vain"
Yeah...I'm definitely not on the same page as the judges tonight. She was SO off on the chorus of this song. She seemed to be ok in the verses, but man...she fell really flat elsewhere. A bit disappointing...at least the way I heard it sitting here on my sofa.
Ramiele Malubay
"Don't Leave Me This Way"
Not the best performance; rather average, actually. She can definitely sing, but his was only an ok performance.
Kristy Lee Cook
"You're No Good"
Like Ramiele before her, Kristy Lee was only average tonight. She'll be back next week, but she won't be the biggest vote getter of the night.
Amanda Overmyer
"Carry On My Wayward Son"
That hair! There's something almost parody-like about it. I mean, it's like Whitesnake fucked Cruella Deville and Amanda was the spawn. The dancing was a bit much, as well. Honey, the 80s are over...come...join us here in the 21st century. Vocally she was strong in places, missed the mark in others.
Alaina Whitaker
"Hopelessly Devoted To You"
It's the night of mediocity. And the sad thing is, as in seasons past, one of these average-josephines will probably win the competition. That said, this was nothing special. Alaina didn't do herself any favors tonight.
Alexandrea Lushington
"If You Leave Me Now"
What an odd choice of song. I mean, it might have worked if she changed the arrangement a bit, but she used the exact original layout and it didn't work. It sounded like off-key karaoke. My judgement...it was the 2nd worst of the night. She may very well have knocked herself out of the contest with this.
Kady Malloy
"Magic Man"
What was with the oversized bedazzled dress? What a rag! As for the performance...like nails on a chalkboard. Crappy all around. She beat out Alexandrea for worst of the night with this hack job. She may sqeak through tomorrow night (never discount the teen-boy-masturbatory-vote), but if it were up to me she would be sent home.
Asiah Eepherson
"All By Myself"
Yet another odd song choice...and then she dropped the ball with it. Off key, lazy, and the vocal olypmics crap at the end doesn't make up for it. One of three worst of the night.
David Hernandez Tends Bar
And what is sure to make Larry both moist and hard at the same time, the current "American Idol" contestant works at the gay club in Phoenix known as Burn.
Photo proof from the guys at VoteForTheWorst.com, by way of Andy Towle...
Photo proof from the guys at VoteForTheWorst.com, by way of Andy Towle...
What States DO Count, Hillary?
According to the New Republic, the Clinton camp feels Texas shouldn't count...that is unless Hillary wins it:
After weeks of finding reasons to discount every Obama victory, the Clinton campaign seems to be laying the groundwork to argue that Texas - the state that they have been pointing to as more meaningful and representative than other states - doesn't count, either.The state has a rather prominent pro-Obama trajectory, but he is by no means a shoo-in. But the Clintons really need to stop bellyaching that states she loses shouldn't really count. Talk about sore losers!
"Idol," Week 2: The Guys
We went from the 1960s last week to the 1970s this week. Here is your wrap-up:
Michael Johns
"Go Your Own Way"
This was a bad song choice for him. His vocals were off...out of tune and screechy. And he needs to stop that "rocker dance" thing he does (one hand up in the air, doing a semi bounce on stage). This was a pretty disappointing performance from one of my favorites.
Jason Castro
"I Just Want To Be Your Everything"
Castro really is 2008's version of Spicoli from "Fast Times At Ridgemont High." What a stoner!
Performance wise, this was actually pretty good. He took an Andy Gibb classic and made it his own. A great interpretation of a smash #1 hit.
Luke Menard
"Killer Queen"
The guy can sing, there's no doubt about it. But Luke singing Queen? That's like your high school "New Dawns" group singing AC/DC. When I closed my eyes, this sounded pretty good, but when I actually watched Luke's performance all I could do was cringe.
Robbie Carrico
"Hot Blooded"
This was a very average performance. Average vocal, average song, average arrangement. Randy was right: this song showcased the limitations of Robbie's vocal range.
Danny Noriega
"Superstar"
Two words. Wait, no. Three: Bad. Gay. Karaoke.
David Hernandez
"Papa Was A Rolling Stone"
He really is one of the hotter guys on the show. As Larry said in a text message last night, "David, David, David!" And his performance was superb! Old school R&B fits his style really well. Excellent choice of song, superb interpretation, stupendous vocal.
Jason Yeager
"Long Train Runnin'"
I disagree with Randy on this one. I thought this was a very nice song choice for Jason. It was perfect for his vocal range and a decent performance all around. Sometimes I wonder if, being right there on the stage, the judges hear something different that we do at home.
Chikezie
"I Believe To My Soul"
It is always risky to do a Donny Hathaway song, for that man had one hell of a voice. And the Idol who did it best was Elliott Yamin - no contest. Chikezie did an ok job on this tune but he is not Elliot - by any stretch of the imagination.
David Cook
"All Right Now"
I liked the electric guitar thing, and the vocal was very good. David was confident all the way through.
David Archuletta
"Imagine"
Ok...the pre-performance clip first...this boy belted out "And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going" to the season 1 finalists six years ago. A "diva" song if ever there was one. I hate to break the news girls, but this boy is a 'mo. Plain and simple.
That said...ahem...David is truly a natural; the best of the bunch this year (so far). He took an awful risk by choosing to do the quintessential John Lennon classic, but his interpretation was spot on, turning in a stunning vocal and knocking it out of the park. Absolutely the best of the night. Hell...the best of the last two weeks!
Michael Johns
"Go Your Own Way"
This was a bad song choice for him. His vocals were off...out of tune and screechy. And he needs to stop that "rocker dance" thing he does (one hand up in the air, doing a semi bounce on stage). This was a pretty disappointing performance from one of my favorites.
Jason Castro
"I Just Want To Be Your Everything"
Castro really is 2008's version of Spicoli from "Fast Times At Ridgemont High." What a stoner!
Performance wise, this was actually pretty good. He took an Andy Gibb classic and made it his own. A great interpretation of a smash #1 hit.
Luke Menard
"Killer Queen"
The guy can sing, there's no doubt about it. But Luke singing Queen? That's like your high school "New Dawns" group singing AC/DC. When I closed my eyes, this sounded pretty good, but when I actually watched Luke's performance all I could do was cringe.
Robbie Carrico
"Hot Blooded"
This was a very average performance. Average vocal, average song, average arrangement. Randy was right: this song showcased the limitations of Robbie's vocal range.
Danny Noriega
"Superstar"
Two words. Wait, no. Three: Bad. Gay. Karaoke.
David Hernandez
"Papa Was A Rolling Stone"
He really is one of the hotter guys on the show. As Larry said in a text message last night, "David, David, David!" And his performance was superb! Old school R&B fits his style really well. Excellent choice of song, superb interpretation, stupendous vocal.
Jason Yeager
"Long Train Runnin'"
I disagree with Randy on this one. I thought this was a very nice song choice for Jason. It was perfect for his vocal range and a decent performance all around. Sometimes I wonder if, being right there on the stage, the judges hear something different that we do at home.
Chikezie
"I Believe To My Soul"
It is always risky to do a Donny Hathaway song, for that man had one hell of a voice. And the Idol who did it best was Elliott Yamin - no contest. Chikezie did an ok job on this tune but he is not Elliot - by any stretch of the imagination.
David Cook
"All Right Now"
I liked the electric guitar thing, and the vocal was very good. David was confident all the way through.
David Archuletta
"Imagine"
Ok...the pre-performance clip first...this boy belted out "And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going" to the season 1 finalists six years ago. A "diva" song if ever there was one. I hate to break the news girls, but this boy is a 'mo. Plain and simple.
That said...ahem...David is truly a natural; the best of the bunch this year (so far). He took an awful risk by choosing to do the quintessential John Lennon classic, but his interpretation was spot on, turning in a stunning vocal and knocking it out of the park. Absolutely the best of the night. Hell...the best of the last two weeks!
Dodd Endorses Obama
Sen. Christopher Dodd (Democrat-CT), a former nominee for his party's presidential nomination, flew to Ohio yesterday to endorse Sen. Barack Obama.
CNN is reporting that another former candidate, Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico, will make an endorsement tomorrow.
CNN is reporting that another former candidate, Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico, will make an endorsement tomorrow.
26 February 2008
Twenty...Let's Stop It There, Shall We?
Tonight's twentieth Democratic presidential forum (they're hardly debates) should be quite enough for this portion of the 2008 election cycle. It was a dull, flat draw and it's time to put these damn things to bed and focus on the general election campaign.
The forum started off as a rehash of the health care argument from last week, and then fell extremely idle from there. Sen. Clinton had a few temperamental moments (whining and moaning about getting the first question...what the hell was that about?) and Sen. Obama probably didn't answer the Farrakhan question strongly enough; but overall it was a flat, dull draw. And a week out of the March 4th contests, that probably puts a nail in Clinton's coffin. Even if she wins both Ohio and Texas next week (a pretty tall order), her performance tonight won't help her win the votes she needs in those states; should she win both, her margins will be too small to overcome Obama's delegate lead.
Clinton started off with a with real bitchy tone. While she calmed down a few minutes later, Obama kept a certain cool about him throughout the entire proceeding that makes me more certain than ever that I would rather have him go up against McCain this fall, that I would rather have his finger on the button, and that I cast the right vote in California's primary last month.
And now it's on to next week's nominating elections. But please...no more "debates!"
The forum started off as a rehash of the health care argument from last week, and then fell extremely idle from there. Sen. Clinton had a few temperamental moments (whining and moaning about getting the first question...what the hell was that about?) and Sen. Obama probably didn't answer the Farrakhan question strongly enough; but overall it was a flat, dull draw. And a week out of the March 4th contests, that probably puts a nail in Clinton's coffin. Even if she wins both Ohio and Texas next week (a pretty tall order), her performance tonight won't help her win the votes she needs in those states; should she win both, her margins will be too small to overcome Obama's delegate lead.
Clinton started off with a with real bitchy tone. While she calmed down a few minutes later, Obama kept a certain cool about him throughout the entire proceeding that makes me more certain than ever that I would rather have him go up against McCain this fall, that I would rather have his finger on the button, and that I cast the right vote in California's primary last month.
And now it's on to next week's nominating elections. But please...no more "debates!"
Food For Thought
As we enter the "fourth quarter" of the nominating contests, I urge those who still have yet to vote to consider the new general election polling from CBS News and the New York Times:
Obama 50%With the all important independent voters, Obama beats McCain by 10 points. Clinton? Well...she loses them by a whopping 17. And if you think she can still win a general election with that sort of deficit among non-affiliated voters, then you should report to the detox unit right away...for the Kool-Aid has most definitely kicked in.
McCain 38%
Clinton 46%
McCain 46%
Post-Oscar Wrap Up
Damn! Those Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress wins came out of left field, leaving me with a paltry three for six in my predictions from Friday. (Side note: Congratulations to Rita for making mince-meat out of the rest of us in the "basement balloting" on Sunday night. She guessed 10 of 12 select categories correctly, including the Actress and Supporting Actress upsets!)
That's what I get for not seeing anything!
Anyhoo...a big hearty "thank you" to Ms. Beth, our fantabulous hostess this past weekend. Flowing cocktails, nibbly things, the company of dear friends, and meeting new ones...the entire weekend was Grade A!
Some highlights...
That's what I get for not seeing anything!
Anyhoo...a big hearty "thank you" to Ms. Beth, our fantabulous hostess this past weekend. Flowing cocktails, nibbly things, the company of dear friends, and meeting new ones...the entire weekend was Grade A!
Some highlights...
Big Thank You to Larry & Trevor
...for taking care of Chloe this past weekend. Her dads thank you oh so much (and she does, as well)!
Charles Nelson Reilly...
...thanks Gil, his dude, and Jimmy G for making that extra effort this past weekend. We appreciate it greatly!
22 February 2008
There Will Be Oscar
This has been my worst movie-going year ever...(E-V-E-R!). So take this year's rather abbreviated Oscar predictions with that in mind...Best Picture
One of the few movies I went to see this year was "Juno," a superb film that many have called the best film of 2007. It would be a great night if it won here, but it won't. The front-runner seems to "No Country For Old Men," and so I will predict that to win.
Best Actor
Viggo Mortensen did full-frontal nudity, and Tommy Lee Jones, George Clooney, and Johnny Depp are Academy favorites. But conventional wisdom has Daniel Day-Lewis picking up his second trophy on Sunday night for his role in "There Will Be Blood."
Best Actress
Julie Christie will win, hands down. It will be her second Academy Award as well, and I can't wait to see her performance as a woman preparing herself and her family for her long, dark final journey through the recesses of Alzheimer's.
Best Supporting Actor
Phillip Seymour Hoffman was excellent in "Charlie Wilson's War," and since the Academy is set to hand out second Oscars to the probable winners mentioned above, why not hand a second one to Hoffman? Alas, the film was more or less snubbed by most wings of the Academy this year and thus I think Hoffman will come up short.
All predictions I have read thus far have Javier Bardem winning for "No Country For Old Men." In either a really stupid move or a rather brilliant one, I am going go against the grain. I think Hal Holbrook will win Sunday night for his roll in "Into the Wild." My gut tells me that the Academy won't be able to resist awarding Holbrook for his lifetime of work.
Best Supporting Actress
Cate Blanchett is nominated twice this year, in the Actress category for "Elizabeth: The Golden Age" and here for her portrayal of Bob Dylan in "I'm Not There." She'll probably win, but you can't count out Tilda Swinton in "Michael Clayton" or Ruby Dee in "American Gangster."
This category is notorious for throwing curve balls (although not as much lately). I find the greatest chance of getting this category right is to go with the front-runner. Cate Blanchett will win.
Best Director
This will be Joel and Ethan Coen's second Oscar of the night (I think they'll win the Adapted Screenplay award as well), and third overall (as producers, they'll win the Best Picture statuettes).
My personal wish would be to see an upset by Paul Thomas Anderson for "There Will Be Blood." "Boogie Nights" and "Magnolia" are classic, superb films and that he wasn't even nominated for directing those two masterpieces puzzles the mind. But I think the momentum for the Coen brothers is too strong for an upset this year.
Brent and I are off to Santa Barbara to watch the ceremony with friends. I may post between now and then, but if not I'll be back on Monday.
The New Paula Abdul Video
The song really is a superb dance track. Paula's vocals are still strong and Randy nails the production. Here is last night's "American Idol" video:
The Texas Two-Step
Reactions from last night's Democratic debate:
Josh Marshall, of Talking Points Memo:
Chuck Todd, of NBC News:
Josh Marshall, of Talking Points Memo:
Hillary had a strong closing. Obama has clearly improved as a debater and seemed to embody the frontrunner mantle. All of this points basically to a tie. And in the context of where this campaign is, a tie is a win for Obama because he's winning. And Clinton needs to change the dynamic of the campaign.
Notwithstanding the inflamed partisans on both sides, I think the great majority of Democrats like both these candidates, genuinely like and admire both of them. You could feel that in the responses from the audience tonight. But that pleasant equilibrium is losing the race for her right now.
Chuck Todd, of NBC News:
Clinton...sounded like a candidate who realized she might not win. It must be an odd position for her but the confidence she exuded for just about the entire debate disappeared there at the end. I wonder if showing some vulnerability might actually help her with some undecided voters.Marc Ambinder, of the Atlantic:
This was the night where we all learned that Hillary Clinton understands the moment in history we are in, and that she is smart enough and gracious enough to realize that her party is more important than personal vanity, that there are things she just cannot say about Obama because it would hurt him in the fall, and that more likely than not, she will not win the nomination.I was driving home from work during most of the debate, and was able to catch a small portion of the repeat on CNN before bed. The debate itself was a draw, and that doesn't help Hillary Clinton one iota in her attempt to stop Barack Obama's tidal wave of momentum. Clinton's answer to the last question of the debate, according to a friend and the TV talking heads, showed her human side. I disagree. It seemed like everything does with her...a bland attempt at trying to seem like she's one of us. That's not a knock, folks; but rather just the way it is. Fair or not, she comes across like a political robot. And after 30 years of refining that sort of personality, it ain't gonna change anytime soon.
Xeroxed Experience
In my opinion Clinton came across as a real icy bitch when she took Obama to task over this whole speech thing. The sweet thing is it backfired. The "boos" were quite audible in that audience.
Read the passages below and I am sure you'll agree: We should all put this stupid episode behind us, don't ya think?
Hillary Clinton, last night:
Read the passages below and I am sure you'll agree: We should all put this stupid episode behind us, don't ya think?
Hillary Clinton, last night:
You know, the hits I’ve taken in life are nothing compared to what goes on every single day in the lives of people across our country. You know, whatever happens, we're going to be fine. You know, we have strong support from our families and our friends. I just hope that we'll be able to say the same thing about the American people.John Edwards, December 13th:
What’s not at stake are any of us. All of us are going to be just fine no matter what happens in this election. But what’s at stake is whether America is going to be fine.Jack Stanton, fictional character in Primary Colors, 1996:
Y’know, I’ve taken some hits in this campaign. It hasn’t been easy for me, or my family. It hasn’t been fair, but it hasn’t been anything compared to the hits a lot of you take every day.Bill Clinton, 1992:
The hits that I took in this election are nothing compared to the hits the people of this state and this country have been taking for a long time.
Thank You, But No
The highlight of last night's "American Idol" results show was the new video from Paula Abdul. I downloaded the single a couple of weeks back and think it's a real top-notch dance tune (and Randy Jackson plays a wicked bass riff).
As for the actual results, the two worst women - Amy Davis and Joanne Borgella - were sent packing. The two guys sent home - Colton Berry and Garrett Haley - were not they worst of the week, but the weren't the best either. I think they deserved another couple of weeks to see how they could improve.
As for the actual results, the two worst women - Amy Davis and Joanne Borgella - were sent packing. The two guys sent home - Colton Berry and Garrett Haley - were not they worst of the week, but the weren't the best either. I think they deserved another couple of weeks to see how they could improve.
Athletic Supporter
A special shout to Lance! Check out all things sports in his podcasts over at Whatcha Talkin Bout?
21 February 2008
The McCain Story, In Perspective
I'm pressed for time this morning, but Josh Marshall has an excellent take on this morning's New York Times story, alleging a possible affair between Republican presidential nominee John McCain and a lobbyist:
You know, affairs are personal business between a person and their partner. But at the political level, when a candidate or office holder are having the affair with a lobbyist - and policy is forwarded that is beneficial to that lobbyist's clients - the scrutiny is completely justified.
And for the record...yes, the scrutiny was justified against President Clinton for having an affair with a White House intern. It just wasn't impeachable.
As for the McCain story, we'll have to see how it shakes out over the next few days. If the Times story has any legs whatsoever, it is bound to be a very long campaign for the Republicans, unless they switch horses in mid-stream and go with someone else at the convention. Even then, their already difficult quest to hold the White House for a third consecutive term would be soiled.
I find it very difficult to believe that the Times would have put their chin so far out on this story if they didn't know a lot more than they felt they could put in the article, at least on the first go.McCain will hold a press conference this morning, allegedly to have his "I-did-not-have-sexual-relations-with-that-woman" moment.
Equally telling, though, is the McCain camp's response and their clear unwillingness to address or deny any the key charges of the piece. (Read the statement closely. It's all bluster.) When it comes to sex stories even falsely accused politicians have some reluctance to get into nitty gritty denials. But McCain - or rather McCain's communications office since it's in their name not his - doesn't even address it.
That tells you something. So too does the Washington Post's decision to jump in very quickly.
Reading all of this stuff I have the distinct feeling that only a few pieces of the puzzle are now on the table. Given unspoken understandings of many years' duration, a lot of reporters and DC types can probably imagine what the full picture looks like. But we're going to need a few more pieces before the rest of us can get a sense of what this is all about.
You know, affairs are personal business between a person and their partner. But at the political level, when a candidate or office holder are having the affair with a lobbyist - and policy is forwarded that is beneficial to that lobbyist's clients - the scrutiny is completely justified.
And for the record...yes, the scrutiny was justified against President Clinton for having an affair with a White House intern. It just wasn't impeachable.
As for the McCain story, we'll have to see how it shakes out over the next few days. If the Times story has any legs whatsoever, it is bound to be a very long campaign for the Republicans, unless they switch horses in mid-stream and go with someone else at the convention. Even then, their already difficult quest to hold the White House for a third consecutive term would be soiled.
McCain's Relationship With Female Lobbyist
In a front page story on John McCain's post-Keating Five ethical conduct, a New York Times cover story tomorrow will focus on the Republican presidential nominee's relationship eight years ago with a much younger female lobbyist named Vicki Iseman.
Political Wire:
A front page New York Times story about Sen. John McCain possibly having a romantic relationship with a female lobbyist will certainly dominate the presidential campaign headlines for the next several days.In a statement released this evening, Sen. McCain slams the Times but does not deny the charges:
That's the titillating headline but the story also alleges McCain did official favors for her. The key point: "Even as he has vowed to hold himself to the highest ethical standards, his confidence in his own integrity has sometimes seemed to blind him to potentially embarrassing conflicts of interest."
Marc Ambinder notes "the interest will be intense because the story was so heavily anticipated. And the wink-wink-nod-nod assertion that McCain allegedly acknowledged unspecified 'improprieties' to some aides is bound to be the part of this that kicks for a while."
Though McCain's campaign denied the story today, the Washington Post noted late last year that McCain and the female lobbyist hired lawyers to defend themselves against the charges.
It is a shame that the New York Times has lowered its standards to engage in a hit and run smear campaign. John McCain has a 24-year record of serving our country with honor and integrity. He has never violated the public trust, never done favors for special interests or lobbyists, and he will not allow a smear campaign to distract from the issues at stake in this election.Huckabee/Romney, anyone?
Americans are sick and tired of this kind of gutter politics, and there is nothing in this story to suggest that John McCain has ever violated the principles that have guided his career.
19%
With all the focus these last few months on picking the next president, some of the news regarding the current one gets lost in the shuffle.
It's official...he is now the least liked president in American history:
It's official...he is now the least liked president in American history:
Among all Americans, 19% approve of the way Bush is handling his job as president and 77% disapprove. Among [registered voters], 18% approve...and 78% disapprove.No other president - not Truman, not Johnson, not Carter, not even Nixon - has polled below 22%.
20 February 2008
"Idol," Week 1: The Girls
On last year's "American Idol," the girls outshined the guys by a mile during those first few episodes. This year, it's the mirror opposite. The girls su-hucked tonight...
Kristy Lee Cook
Selma, OR
"Rescue Me"
Mediocrity at its best. This wasn't as bad as the judges thought, but it was simple-minded pop fluff.
Joanne Borgella
I missed where she's from.
"Say A Little Prayer"
Pitchy. No pow, no bam. Not good at all.
Alaina Whitaker
Tulsa, OK
"Love You More Today"
Ok...I couldn't stand this chick the minute Ryan started interviewing her. Birthday? Shoes? She's the epitome of everything that is wrong with American teenagers today. She turned in a sub-par performance. The vocal was pitchy, it was crappy, and she stunk.
Amanda Overmeyer
Mulberry, IN
"Baby, Please Don't Go"
This gal is Elvira, Lily Munster, and Joan Jett all rolled into one. As for her performance...ok...I get it sweetheart...you know how to rock. And you do it well.
Amy Davis
Lowell, IN
"Where the Boys Are"
From the first note her performance made me wonder how the hell she got past the early Hollywood round. I mean really...that was singing? The worst of the night.
Brooke White
Mesa, AZ
"Happy Together"
Not as bad as Amy, but not good by any stretch. Below average.
Alexandrea Lushington
Douglasville, GA
"Spinning Wheel"
She had lots of energy, a strong stage presence, and a great deal of confidence. But...she had real trouble reaching those high notes and that made for a pretty bad performance overall.
Kady Malloy
Houston, TX
"Groovy Kind of Love"
I'm on a totally opposite page than the judges with this one. That is how you sing! She turned in a strong vocal without the whole "vocal olympics" thing. One of the better performances of the night.
Asia'h Epherson
Joplin, MO
"Piece of My Heart"
She nailed it! This was the best performance of the night. It was Janis Joplin meets Tina Turner. A superb rendition of the rock classic.
Ratatouille Mumbasa
I have no idea where she's from.
I have no idea what she sang.
Can you say "lounge singer?" Good vocal, but nothing special.
Syesha Mercado
Sarasota, FL
"Tobacco Road"
Sloppy arrangement but a very good vocal. And her personality absolutely shines!
Carly Smithson
San Diego, CA
What song was this?
For having had a contract before, this was only an above-average performance. She's professional, she can sing, but it wasn't the best of the night. Not by any stretch.
Kristy Lee Cook
Selma, OR
"Rescue Me"
Mediocrity at its best. This wasn't as bad as the judges thought, but it was simple-minded pop fluff.
Joanne Borgella
I missed where she's from.
"Say A Little Prayer"
Pitchy. No pow, no bam. Not good at all.
Alaina Whitaker
Tulsa, OK
"Love You More Today"
Ok...I couldn't stand this chick the minute Ryan started interviewing her. Birthday? Shoes? She's the epitome of everything that is wrong with American teenagers today. She turned in a sub-par performance. The vocal was pitchy, it was crappy, and she stunk.
Amanda Overmeyer
Mulberry, IN
"Baby, Please Don't Go"
This gal is Elvira, Lily Munster, and Joan Jett all rolled into one. As for her performance...ok...I get it sweetheart...you know how to rock. And you do it well.
Amy Davis
Lowell, IN
"Where the Boys Are"
From the first note her performance made me wonder how the hell she got past the early Hollywood round. I mean really...that was singing? The worst of the night.
Brooke White
Mesa, AZ
"Happy Together"
Not as bad as Amy, but not good by any stretch. Below average.
Alexandrea Lushington
Douglasville, GA
"Spinning Wheel"
She had lots of energy, a strong stage presence, and a great deal of confidence. But...she had real trouble reaching those high notes and that made for a pretty bad performance overall.
Kady Malloy
Houston, TX
"Groovy Kind of Love"
I'm on a totally opposite page than the judges with this one. That is how you sing! She turned in a strong vocal without the whole "vocal olympics" thing. One of the better performances of the night.
Asia'h Epherson
Joplin, MO
"Piece of My Heart"
She nailed it! This was the best performance of the night. It was Janis Joplin meets Tina Turner. A superb rendition of the rock classic.
Ratatouille Mumbasa
I have no idea where she's from.
I have no idea what she sang.
Can you say "lounge singer?" Good vocal, but nothing special.
Syesha Mercado
Sarasota, FL
"Tobacco Road"
Sloppy arrangement but a very good vocal. And her personality absolutely shines!
Carly Smithson
San Diego, CA
What song was this?
For having had a contract before, this was only an above-average performance. She's professional, she can sing, but it wasn't the best of the night. Not by any stretch.
Hillary's Barf-enbarger
Tom Buffenbarger, President of the International Association of Machinists, introducing Hillary Clinton last night:
Memo to Hillary: Many Democrats are latte-drinking, Prius-driving, Birkenstock-wearing Americans. Don't bite the fuckin' hand that feeds you, or that hand will wind up slapping you right back to New York, and leave you there to stew in the dust of your losing campaign.
On another note, the plagiarism argument is now moot. I would like to direct Clinton and Barf-enbarger's attention to this Republican ad from 2004:
Hmmm...sounds awfully familiar...doesn't it?
Give me a break! I've got news for all the latte-drinking, Prius- driving, Birkenstock-wearing, trust fund babies crowding in to hear him speak! This guy won't last a round against the Republican attack machine. He's a poet, not a fighter.Rather than promote Clinton, her policies, and her candidacy, Barf-enbarger saw last night's numbers out of Wisconsin, got on that stage, and acted like a Republican.
Memo to Hillary: Many Democrats are latte-drinking, Prius-driving, Birkenstock-wearing Americans. Don't bite the fuckin' hand that feeds you, or that hand will wind up slapping you right back to New York, and leave you there to stew in the dust of your losing campaign.
On another note, the plagiarism argument is now moot. I would like to direct Clinton and Barf-enbarger's attention to this Republican ad from 2004:
Hmmm...sounds awfully familiar...doesn't it?
It's Noon: Have You Hoodie-Hoo'd?
File under "untraditional holidays"...On this winter day (February 20), people go out at noon, wave their hands over their heads and chant "Hoodie-Hoo".
It is a day to chase away winter and bring in spring. After all, everyone in the northern hemisphere are sick and tired of winter at this point and a little crazy being cooped up inside all winter and not seeing the sun.
Having It Both Ways
Reader email:I notice that when you mention Senator Clinton on your blog you often refer to her as "Hillary," while there are no references to "Barack." Don't you think you should address her as "Senator Clinton?" She is a former first lady for Pete's sake, and a candidate for president, and deserves that sort of respect.I tell ya what...when Hillary starts changing all of her campaign signage and literature, I will be more than happy to call her "Senator Clinton."
Until then...it's "Hillary," "Sen. Clinton," "the former First Lady," or "Monica Lewinsky's Ex-Boyfriend's Wife."
Mmm k ?
Post-Wisconsin Analysis
...from Kos, himself, Markos Moulitsas Zúniga, because his points are well worth the time:This was me a lifetime ago, at least in blog time. In actual time it was just two weeks ago, the Monday before Super Tuesday:For Obama, his task for Tuesday is simply to survive. He needs to finish within 200 delegates of Clinton to keep it close, because the rest of the month is tailor made for Obama.Obama did better than that, he won Super Tuesday. After Super Tuesday I wrote:Well, Clinton came nowhere near what she needed to do to build a strong delegate lead (and super delegates can change their mind, they're not locked in). Obama needed to survive, and he did more than that -- he outright won the night. Now his job is to finish off Clinton. If he can rack up a full month of 20%+ victories the rest of this month, he does just that.People accused me of not playing the expectations game, and they were right. I wasn't. The thought of closing out the month with 20 point victories seemed pretty silly, but that's what I thought it would take to close the deal. So let's see how February ended up looking [for Obama], post-Super Tuesday:
[The listed numbers being his margin of victory over Clinton]
Louisiana: +21
Nebraska: +36
Washington: +37
Maine: +19
Virgin Islands: +82
DC: +51
Maryland: +23
Virginia: +29
Wisconsin: +17
Hawaii: +52
Look at those numbers. We've got white states, we've got "black" states. We've got southern states. We've got western states. We've got northern states. We've got cheeseheads. We've got caucuses. We've got primaries. We've got rich states. We've got working class states. We've got Blue states. We have Red States. (We've got the start of a Doctor Seuss rhyme here...)
You know what we don't have? A single close contest. Not a one. The rejection of Hillary Clinton has been absolute. Okay, Obama didn't sweep with 20+ victories, but really, he did what he had to do. Hillary only has *one* two victories above 17 points (Arkansas and Oklahoma). I'm surprised he even won Maine. Clinton's campaign is now effectively dead.
Make That Ten In a Row
And it wasn't even close:
Food for thought from a diarist over at DailyKos:
If Sen. Clinton really believes what she has been saying during this campaign - that it's time to clean up the Bush mess, that she'll support whoever the Democratic nominee is - then she should face the facts: In order to win the delegates she needs to win this nomination, she would need to win between 62% and 70% of the popular vote in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas. And from the vantage point of mid-February, with all of Obama's landslide wins fresh in our minds, that seems like an order too tall for even the Clintons.
Hawaii:How does the once-presumed front runner spin ten losses in a row (most by landslide proportions)? Truth is she really can't. David Kurtz, from Talking Points Memo:
Obama 76%
Clinton 24%
First, despite polls showing a relatively close race, Obama looks likely to have a final winning margin in the double digits. In other words, not close at all. It's one thing to endure a month of losing, as the Hillary camp has steeled itself for, it's quite another to hold on through a series of landslide defeats, which is what they're facing now.As things stand right now, the mountain to the Democratic nomination is almost insurmountable for Sen. Clinton. I won't count her out (we all know what fighters the Clintons are), but Sen. Obama has cakewalked to ten tremendous victories in a row, with many of those wins coming in places where Clinton thought she would do well. Wisconsin was supposed to be a pro-Clinton state. How then do you explain away a 17-point loss there? The answer is you don't, other than to say you had your ass handed to you.
The other thing that doesn't bode well for her is that the electorate isn't remaining static. It's moving, and the exit polls suggest it's moving toward Obama. Last week, Obama made gains among white voters and women in Virginia and Maryland. Today, the exit polls show him eroding her core constituencies further: he almost won among women and won among middle-aged voters, among lower-income voters, and among union households.
If you're a Hillary supporter, there's not much in the Wisconsin results to raise your spirits.
Food for thought from a diarist over at DailyKos:
If Obama had lost ten straight contests, the Clinton campaign and/or its surrogates would be calling for him to "step down" for the "good of the party." They would want the Democratic Party to "coalesce" around its "obvious frontrunner."Hillary should step down at this point. The debate and the nominating process have been extremely exciting, but the Republicans have their nominee and they have begun campaigning for the general election in November. As experience has taught us, the longer the Democrats wait to join that debate, the longer their odds of winning the White House.
If Sen. Clinton really believes what she has been saying during this campaign - that it's time to clean up the Bush mess, that she'll support whoever the Democratic nominee is - then she should face the facts: In order to win the delegates she needs to win this nomination, she would need to win between 62% and 70% of the popular vote in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas. And from the vantage point of mid-February, with all of Obama's landslide wins fresh in our minds, that seems like an order too tall for even the Clintons.
Speaking of Talking Points Memo...
Congrats to Josh Marshall and the folks over at TPM. They just picked up the prestigious George Polk Award for breaking the U.S. Attorneys debacle that brought down Alberto Gonzales as Attorney General.
Job well done, guys!
Job well done, guys!
The Plagiarism Charge
It was overkill. Jack Shafer explains here.
My two cents: Obama and Deval Patrick share the same campaign manager (David Axelrod). The expression of ideas is bound to overlap.
And I'm sorry...I bet if someone had the time to look, they would find plenty of instances where Hillary has co-opted some of Bill's comments.
Oh wait...someone did!
Give me a break, Hillary! This move reeks of desperation and, where it counted most, the voters soundly rejected it.
My two cents: Obama and Deval Patrick share the same campaign manager (David Axelrod). The expression of ideas is bound to overlap.
And I'm sorry...I bet if someone had the time to look, they would find plenty of instances where Hillary has co-opted some of Bill's comments.
Oh wait...someone did!
Give me a break, Hillary! This move reeks of desperation and, where it counted most, the voters soundly rejected it.
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