Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Al Gore Op-Ed

THE NEW YORK TIMES
Op-Ed Contributor
The Climate for Change
By AL GORE
Published: November 9, 2008

The inspiring and transformative choice by the American people to elect Barack Obama as our 44th president lays the foundation for another fateful choice that he -- and we -- must make this January to begin an emergency rescue of human civilization from the imminent and rapidly growing threat posed by the climate crisis.

The electrifying redemption of America's revolutionary declaration that all human beings are born equal sets the stage for the renewal of United States leadership in a world that desperately needs to protect its primary endowment: the integrity and livability of the planet.

The world authority on the climate crisis, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, after 20 years of detailed study and four unanimous reports, now says that the evidence is "unequivocal." To those who are still tempted to dismiss the increasingly urgent alarms from scientists around the world, ignore the melting of the north polar ice cap and all of the other apocalyptic warnings from the planet itself, and who roll their eyes at the very mention of this existential threat to the future of the human species, please wake up. Our children and grandchildren need you to hear and recognize the truth of our situation, before it is too late.

Here is the good news: the bold steps that are needed to solve the climate crisis are exactly the same steps that ought to be taken in order to solve the economic crisis and the energy security crisis.

Economists across the spectrum -- including Martin Feldstein and Lawrence Summers -- agree that large and rapid investments in a jobs-intensive infrastructure initiative is the best way to revive our economy in a quick and sustainable way. Many also agree that our economy will fall behind if we continue spending hundreds of billions of dollars on foreign oil every year. Moreover, national security experts in both parties agree that we face a dangerous strategic vulnerability if the world suddenly loses access to Middle Eastern oil.

As Abraham Lincoln said during America's darkest hour, "The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so we must think anew, and act anew." In our present case, thinking anew requires discarding an outdated and fatally flawed definition of the problem we face.

Thirty-five years ago this past week, President Richard Nixon created Project Independence, which set a national goal that, within seven years, the United States would develop "the potential to meet our own energy needs without depending on any foreign energy sources." His statement came three weeks after the Arab oil embargo had sent prices skyrocketing and woke America to the dangers of dependence on foreign oil. And -- not coincidentally -- it came only three years after United States domestic oil production had peaked.

At the time, the United States imported less than a third of its oil from foreign countries. Yet today, after all six of the presidents succeeding Nixon repeated some version of his goal, our dependence has doubled from one-third to nearly two-thirds -- and many feel that global oil production is at or near its peak.

Some still see this as a problem of domestic production. If we could only increase oil and coal production at home, they argue, then we wouldn't have to rely on imports from the Middle East. Some have come up with even dirtier and more expensive new ways to extract the same old fuels, like coal liquids, oil shale, tar sands and "clean coal" technology.

But in every case, the resources in question are much too expensive or polluting, or, in the case of "clean coal," too imaginary to make a difference in protecting either our national security or the global climate. Indeed, those who spend hundreds of millions promoting "clean coal" technology consistently omit the fact that there is little investment and not a single large-scale demonstration project in the United States for capturing and safely burying all of this pollution. If the coal industry can make good on this promise, then I'm all for it. But until that day comes, we simply cannot any longer base the strategy for human survival on a cynical and self-interested illusion.

Here's what we can do -- now: we can make an immediate and large strategic investment to put people to work replacing 19th-century energy technologies that depend on dangerous and expensive carbon-based fuels with 21st-century technologies that use fuel that is free forever: the sun, the wind and the natural heat of the earth.

What follows is a five-part plan to repower America with a commitment to producing 100 percent of our electricity from carbon-free sources within 10 years. It is a plan that would simultaneously move us toward solutions to the climate crisis and the economic crisis -- and create millions of new jobs that cannot be outsourced.

First, the new president and the new Congress should offer large-scale investment in incentives for the construction of concentrated solar thermal plants in the Southwestern deserts, wind farms in the corridor stretching from Texas to the Dakotas and advanced plants in geothermal hot spots that could produce large amounts of electricity.

Second, we should begin the planning and construction of a unified national smart grid for the transport of renewable electricity from the rural places where it is mostly generated to the cities where it is mostly used. New high-voltage, low-loss underground lines can be designed with "smart" features that provide consumers with sophisticated information and easy-to-use tools for conserving electricity, eliminating inefficiency and reducing their energy bills. The cost of this modern grid -- $400 billion over 10 years -- pales in comparison with the annual loss to American business of $120 billion due to the cascading failures that are endemic to our current balkanized and antiquated electricity lines.

Third, we should help America's automobile industry (not only the Big Three but the innovative new startup companies as well) to convert quickly to plug-in hybrids that can run on the renewable electricity that will be available as the rest of this plan matures. In combination with the unified grid, a nationwide fleet of plug-in hybrids would also help to solve the problem of electricity storage. Think about it: with this sort of grid, cars could be charged during off-peak energy-use hours; during peak hours, when fewer cars are on the road, they could contribute their electricity back into the national grid.

Fourth, we should embark on a nationwide effort to retrofit buildings with better insulation and energy-efficient windows and lighting. Approximately 40 percent of carbon dioxide emissions in the United States come from buildings -- and stopping that pollution saves money for homeowners and businesses. This initiative should be coupled with the proposal in Congress to help Americans who are burdened by mortgages that exceed the value of their homes.

Fifth, the United States should lead the way by putting a price on carbon here at home, and by leading the world's efforts to replace the Kyoto treaty next year in Copenhagen with a more effective treaty that caps global carbon dioxide emissions and encourages nations to invest together in efficient ways to reduce global warming pollution quickly, including by sharply reducing deforestation.

Of course, the best way -- indeed the only way -- to secure a global agreement to safeguard our future is by re-establishing the United States as the country with the moral and political authority to lead the world toward a solution.

Looking ahead, I have great hope that we will have the courage to embrace the changes necessary to save our economy, our planet and ultimately ourselves.

In an earlier transformative era in American history, President John F. Kennedy challenged our nation to land a man on the moon within 10 years. Eight years and two months later, Neil Armstrong set foot on the lunar surface. The average age of the systems engineers cheering on Apollo 11 from the Houston control room that day was 26, which means that their average age when President Kennedy announced the challenge was 18.

This year similarly saw the rise of young Americans, whose enthusiasm electrified Barack Obama's campaign. There is little doubt that this same group of energized youth will play an essential role in this project to secure our national future, once again turning seemingly impossible goals into inspiring success.

Al Gore, the vice president from 1993 to 2001, was the co-recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007. He founded the Alliance for Climate Protection and, as a businessman, invests in alternative energy companies.

View online: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/09/opinion/09gore.html?partner=permalink&exprod=permalink

Friday, November 7, 2008

One for the History Books - Reactions

World Reaction to Obama Victory






Here is President-Elect Barack Obama's Victory Speech


Jim for Georgia

Our Top Priority has to be the Georgia senate seat. Jim Martin has released the first ad of the run off, declaring America is Back!



There is another Ad in the works yet to be sent to TV that attacks Chambliss' Shameless treatment of a whistle blower involved with the events surrounding the Savannah Sugar Refinery Explosion.

Currently Democrats hold 57 Senate Seats, with Oregon being called today for the Democratic Challenger. In Alaska, some 20,000 absentee ballots have yet to be counted in a race only split by approximately 3000 votes. Minnesota is headed for a recount with Democrat Al Franken trailing by 300 votes. Expect final returns to be in by Mid-to-Late November.

Alaska is however an interesting case. Republicans and Democrats alike want Ted Stephens out of the Senate. Personally, I am hopeful that a vote regarding this will take place soon. If possible before December 2nd, I am unsure of the chances of that happening.

So lets get Shameless Chambliss out of the Senate...Vote Jim for Georgia

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Victory!

My friends,

We did it. President-Elect Barack Obama will lead this nation.

However, there is hard work ahead. We have to change the way we do things. We must push our Government and push ourselves to make change happen. As a Democrat I have to keep Dems on their toes. We must push energy plans like the Pickens Plan and the WE campaign. We cannot take a back seat.

In Georgia we have work to do. The Senate seat is headed for a Dec. 2 run-off. Lets push Jim Martin to win!

In two years we fight to retake the Governor's Mansion and the state cabinet. Not to mention Johnny Isakson's seat comes up for grabs.

Last night was a Blowout, as I am sure the final tallys will show. But there is still work to be done.

May God Bless Barack Obama & God Bless America.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Judgement Day

My friends we have reached judgment day. I implore all of you to go and vote, if you have not done so already. Today, we look forward to a better America and a better world.

May God Bless America

Monday, October 27, 2008

Battleground Georgia

Friends,

VoteVets.org has released a new anti-Shameless add and it is powerful.


Also the Georgia Senate Race has been heating up nicely....you should vote early...tons of our neighbors have...

Alaska Sen. Ted Stevens has been convicted, now to see what the punishment will be.

Vote Early, Vote Blue!

Monday, October 13, 2008

A New Ad from Jim Martin!

The Jim for Georgia Campaign has released a new ad called "Root."



Late last week Congressional Quarterly upgraded the race from "Republican Favored" to "Republican Leaning." What does that mean? It means that the Jim for Georgia Campaign is gaining ground on Saxby Shameless. Lets Turn Georgia Blue! Vote Jim Martin for Senate!

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Fed Money Wasted

My Friends, I have a problem. Not to long ago the Federal government Bailed out international insurer AIG, to the tune of $85 Billion. i didn't have a problem with the bailout. I do however take issue with the fact that in the days following the bailout the company treated executives to a $440,000 escape at a California resort. This is UNACCEPTABLE! We aren't talking about reports or cost of a hotel, we're talking spa treatments at a resort. Some form of punishment must be dealt out. Government money is not vacation money.

More from CNN

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

The Bailout Two Step (Senate Version)

As I am sure most of you know the Bailout Failed in the House on Monday. However since the Bailout was a Concurring Resolution The Senate Version is up for a vote today at approximately 7:30PM (Notice: After the Markets Close). The Senate version of the bill is, at its core, a little different from the House version. It includes a provision to increase the FDIC insured limit from $100,000 to $250,000. This is a big deal for Small Business.

Added on to the Bailout Bill will be several "sweetners" for both Republicans and Democrats. Tacked on will be a Mental Health Bill and a package of tax breaks. Those tax breaks include a temporary fix of the Alternative Minimum Tax, a renewable energy and conservation tax credit bill, tax relief for disaster victims, as well as other things.

Also under consideration will be an Amendment to the bailout introduced by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) to add a 10% surtax to those making over $500,000.

Both John McCain and Barack Obama have said they will vote; 60 votes are required to move the bill out of debate.

The Process for this bill is going to be very odd. The bailout will be introduced as a Subsitute Amendent to H.R. 1424 (Orginally the previously mentioned Mental Health bill). Both the Bailout and the Sanders Amendment need 60 Votes to pass another vote will be needed to move the total package out of debate and then the vote will occur.

Taxpayers for Common Sense has released a Statement.

More Information:
Open Congress
Senate Calendar

Friday, September 26, 2008

Ole Miss Debate

And the winner is....Barack Obama!

I realize that this was an unusual debate. Here we are talking Foriegn Policy in the middle of an economic crisis. John McCain got lucky. Seriously, If this debate had been on the economy he would have been railroaded, most likely to the point where it would just have been unfair.

Barack wins not because he laid a huge bomb, no pun intended, but because he took away John McCain's main point of Obama's "Inexperience."

On the early wire Madeleine Albright says Obama had "A Breakthrough Night"

Jim For Georgia

Hey Georgia! Lets vote out Saxby Shameless. Vote Jim Martin for Georgia's Middle Class.



Are you a fiscal conservative? Then take a look at Allen Buckley the Libertarian.

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Earmarks v Palin, Biden, et al.

On AC360, Anderson Cooper makes a point of "Keeping Them Honest." A few nights ago, the focus was on Gov. Sarah Palin (the Bridge and Road to Nowhere) and Sen. Joe Biden (with His own Bridge Earmarks) Earmarks have become somewhat of an issue. The media has latched on to them as a form of quasi-corruption. I however have two issues with earmarks, the lack of spending control and their secretive nature.

I have no doubt that within the earmark society there is corruption. However the projects that are funded via earmarks are important nevertheless. An earmark is really just a budget request. We cannot deny that the U.S. Congress, just like any other legislative body, has to allocate money for special projects. The issue is that while these allocations have no open platform, in the full view of the nation, they will continue to be hidden. Or they will continue to bloat massive spending bills.

So yes lets eliminate the pork. But lets also provide for projects to be brought into the light, where Americans can view them and give these special projects all due fiscal and ethical consideration.

Until then, lets keep them honest.

Monday, September 22, 2008

Its the Regulations Stupid!

The US Government is considering bailouts for Wall Street Firms and even some foreign banks. Current Cost...$700 Billion. Look for that price tag to go up before the bill passes. While this bailout may be necessary it is also an opportunity.

The Bush Administration is out to maintain some sort of legacy. They do not want to go down in history as the modern era equivalent of Herbert Hoover. Not to mention Democrats that want to push Obama into 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., not to mention their goal of a Filibuster proof Senate Majority. Everything is on the table, Dems have the upper hand.

I have my 7 condidtions for a bailout and they are:

  1. End Short Selling, While it is an easy way into the markets it is not worth the problems it causes.
  2. Create a 4, 6, or 8 person council to decide who gets bailed out and how much money they get. This council must have an even number of members. Included on this board must be the Chairs of the House and Senate Banking Committee, Secretary Paulson, and the Ranking member of the Senate Banking Committee. They must agree in order to bailout. The Council only has a lifespan of 6-months.
  3. The bailout must include aid and a restruturing plan for firms and in trouble households. Allow Local Courts to restructure loans from bailed out firms.
  4. The Government must recieve a fair value in shares of companies bailed out. Said number of shares must be a condition of the bailout.
  5. The Government must disclose who is being bailed out, why, and all of the terms of the bail out.
  6. CEO's of bailed out companies cannot recieve pay or severence packages exceding $300,000
  7. THERE MUST BE A COMPLETE OVERHAUL OF THE REGULATORY SYSTEMS FOR THE FINANCE INDUSTRY and any other industry in need of major government assistance.
I don't like the idea of a bailout but otherwise we risk turmoil. Oh and one more thing, NO BAILOUTS OF FORIEGN FIRMS!!!

Quote for the Day

Interesting Bumper Sticker...To Say the least

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

John McCain...Out of Touch



This Barack Obama commercial uses the Arizona senator's own words to make him appear out of touch with the havoc wreaked by the Wall Street meltdown -- and therefore is accurate in its portrayal.

The McCain campaign quickly realized that its candidate had struck the wrong note yesterday morning, and soon sent reporters new remarks in which John McCain declared the economy to be "in crisis."



Friday, September 12, 2008

An Email From Barack Obama

Friend --

Help your friends Vote for Change You'd be surprised by how many people you know who aren't registered to vote.

Registration deadlines are coming up soon, and we need every single vote we can get to win this election.

Tell your friends, family, and neighbors to check out our new one-stop voter registration website.

Just forward this message.

VoteforChange.com makes it easier than ever to register. Instead of tracking down the right forms, all you need to do is answer a few basic questions and you'll be ready to vote. You can also:
  • Confirm your existing registration
  • Apply to vote absentee
  • Find your polling place

If you don't know your own registration status or you'd like to learn more, take a minute to visit the site right now.

This race is too close and too important to stay home on Election Day.

If you take the time to register and vote -- and make sure everyone you know is registered as well -- we'll be able to turn the tide of the past eight years.

It's people just like you who will transform this nation.

Thanks,

Barack
Email Received from the Obama for America Campaign

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Tax Plan in $$$

BREAKING DOWN THE NUMBERS
Here's how the average tax bill could change in 2009 if either John McCain's or Barack Obama's tax proposals were fully in place.

MCCAIN OBAMA
Income Avg. tax bill Avg. tax bill
Over $2.9M -$269,364 +$701,885
$603K and up -$45,361 +$115,974
$227K-$603K -$7,871 +$12
$161K-$227K -$4,380 -$2,789
$112K-$161K -$2,614 -$2,204
$66K-$112K -$1,009 -$1,290
$38K-$66K -$319 -$1,042
$19K-$38K -$113 -$892
Under $19K -$19 -$567


Notice that the Average Person saves more under Sen. Obama's Plan. However if you happen to make over $603K a year, your going to have a huge increase.

Info from the Tax Policy Center and CNN.

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Go Dawgs!

It wouldn't be right if I didn't post this video.



Go Dawgs!

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Signs of Hope & Change



Over the past 17 months, millions of Americans from every corner of this country have taken part in the political process and built an unprecedented movement for change. This video, featuring footage and photos from supporters across the country, documents this grassroots movement and the supporters who truly are the backbone of this campaign.

Featuring music by The National and sunrise footage courtesy of BlueMarvel.

From Barack Obama's YouTube Channel

Disappointment

I actually believe Sen. McCain to be an honorable man and Gov. Palin to be a genuine person.

However, I am tired of these constant lies from the RNC. I once hoped that the RNC under John McCain wouldn't be so petty. That they would bring substance to the party of Lincoln. The GOP has only proven to have as much substance as a bag of hot air. The GOP under McCain is the same as it was under George W. Bush.

The GOP convention lacked a soul. It had no heart. Maybe it was the speeches of 75% false attacks. Or maybe It was the lack of policy talk. Could it have been the Clearly coached crowd. Even the confetti was weak (The balloons however did look nice). I felt let down. I expected much more from the "maverick."

My Friends,
We MUST Elect Barack Obama President of the United States
Good Night & God Bless

Monday, September 1, 2008

Pickens Plan TV Spot



Click "What's the Plan?" On the sidebar to find out more.

Sunday, August 31, 2008

Quote for the Day

Today Michael Moore released a letter, which I first read on the Huffington Post. Personally I find it funny yet telling. While I do not always agree with Mr. Moore's opinions or actions, I must say that I agree with the core message of this letter, and I think you should read it.


As I Christian I believe that God is in the details. I believe that everything done in the dark must come to the light, and that come Judgement Day, your politics won't matter. All that will matter is your faith & your actions.

Good Night and God Bless

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Obama at the Convention

Monday, August 25, 2008

A Great Time To Be A Democrat

My Friends our party is on the right track. With the Obama-Biden Campaign rolling into Denver, we focused on our strengths as a Nation. Mainly our strength in diversity. We must build our party around everyday people. We saw our future First Lady as a strong and caring person.

Amazing Speeches by the Honorable Senator Ted Kennedy (D-MA) and Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA). Not to mention a interesting statement by former Representaive Jim Leach (R-IA).

Tonight the DNC put the nation at ease. It was a night for calm, compassion and focus on getting to know our party's leadership. And America can rest easy because these leaders are pro-America, pro-Main St., and pro-you and me.

In closing, I wish Sen. Kennedy a speedy recovery and respectable Democrats everywhere God's Speed to Victory in November.

Good Night and God Bless

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Obama's VP

Alright, I'm convinced. Their are only two people who I would want as VP if I was one of Sen. Obama's aides. Who would I like as VP? Ret. Gen. Westley Clark and Sen. Hillary Clinton.

As regards Sen. Clinton, the last several weeks have seen an easing of intense feelings on both sides. A few months ago I thought only a punk would pick Clinton, but now that we've had some time I realize that she is nevertheless a brillant person.

Gen Westley Clark is the anti-McCain. I can't say it any better than Paul Abrams did at the Huffington Post. Also see my earlier post on Clark.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Read My Lips, No Guns in the Airport

I am not your average democrat. I support peoples right to carry weapons. However, there are places where guns have no business, unless they are in the hands of law enforcement. For instance, guns don't belong in schools, parks, and high security areas. Moreover, business owners should be able to say that they don't want guns on their property.

Ladies and Gentlemen, the reasoning behind the Airport is simple, it is not safe. Airport Security should not have to worry about who has a permit and who doesn't. It should be simple. No guns period.

Contrary to the average gun control advocate, I realize that people who legally carry guns are not truly dangerous. And I also realize that criminals don't obey gun control laws, and that people are left more or less defenseless. No police force can be everywhere all the time, and people have a God given right to defend themselves. However, in areas like schools and airports security and police are in abundance, no need to carry a gun on your person here. But it must still be said that the presence of guns in the hands of untrained people is nevertheless a threat.

We as Americans have a right to carry weapons. But for safeties sake not everyone can carry them everywhere. What I want to see is Georgia law rewritten to allow guns in everywhere except schools & airports. Furthermore, any property owner or business owner can declare his/her/their property a gun free zone whither public or private. However, said owner must post a standardized sign in front of every entrance. Next, anyone wanting a gun permit must complete a safety course. And lastly no concealed weapons in vehicles.

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Of War And Peace

It would seem that there is a lot going on in the world this week. The start of the Olympic Games in Beijing. As well as the start of a war between Russia and Georgia. The Olympics, in ancient times was a period of peace, where war ceased and there was fellowship among the nations. No such treaty exists now.

This situation requires all of our attention. France, Turkey and even the Bush Administration (In their own special way) are urging peace. Russia, while not the major power it once was, is still powerful. And Crucial to Regional stability, well beyond its borders. Not to mention that within Georgia lies an important Oil Pipeline. However this situation has been ongoing, as far as I can tell for decades in one form or another, it must be brought to a resolution.

I hope that cooler heads will prevail in this situation, we cannot afford instability.

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

What a Great Day for Georgia

As we democrats continue our quest to improve our state and our nation Georgia Dems made some great decisions today.

3) CLAYTON COUNTY

  • Keeping Eldrin Bell as County Commission Chair is an important step. Now I wouldn't call him perfect, but he works for the people. And is much more respectable than Lee Scott, who threatened a man after he was accused of knocking down one of his wife's Campaign Signs
  • Jewel Scott is out as DA, Its just a good look all around....see above
  • Victor Hill is out as Sheriff. Having completely trivialized Clayton County Law Enforcement and destablizing the Office of Sheriff.
  • SEE MORE:
    Creative Loafing
    Obi's Sister
    Fox 5
    Peach Pundit
2) FULTON COUNTY
  • While I truely belive Myron Freeman is a good man, there is no confidence in his administration. The Jail has had its ups and downs. And he has at the very least kept the Jail from getting worst. The problem again is that people lack confidence in the Fulton Co. Sheriff, and this has been the case for the last few election cycles. No confidence in the Organization, no confidence in its Leader. Good Man, Wrong Time.
1) SENATORIAL CAMPAIGN
  • All I can say is that the Georgia Democratic Party will not be led by a Republican Puppet. Who's the puppet you ask? Vernon Jones of course. The two time Bush and GOP supporter, not to mention Obama wannabe has been soundly defeated by Jim Martin!

This has been a Great Night for the Future of Our State

Sunday, July 27, 2008

H.R. 3221 - Roll Call

The U.S. Senate was in session on Saturday voting on some very important legislation. (See My Post on the Matter) The final tally on the vote for H.R. 3221 was:

  • 72 Ayes
  • 13 Nays
  • 15 Abstentions
Both Georgia Senators Voted in-favor of this legislation. (Oh the Attacks if they dared vote No) But what caught my eye was who abstained. Both Obama and McCain abstained.

Well Obama has an excuse he was on his way home from #10 Downing Street, where he met with British Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

But what about McCain, where was he on this special saturday? A day of Rest and Light Campaigning Perhaps?

Senators Voting Against
Sen. John Barrasso [WY]
Sen. Thomas Coburn [OK]
Sen. Bob Corker [TN]
Sen. John Cornyn [TX]
Sen. Jim DeMint [SC]
Sen. John Ensign [NV]
Sen. Michael Enzi [WY]
Sen. Charles Grassley [IA]
Sen. Orrin Hatch [UT]
Sen. Kay Hutchison [TX]
Sen. Jon Kyl [AZ]
Sen. John Thune [SD]
Sen. David Vitter [LA]


Senators Abstaining
Sen. Thomas Carper [DE]
Sen. Thomas Harkin [IA]
Sen. Daniel Inouye [HI]
Sen. Edward Kennedy [MA]
Sen. Patty Murray [WA]
Sen. Barack Obama [IL]
Sen. Wayne Allard [CO]
Sen. Christopher Bond [MO]
Sen. Jim Bunning [KY]
Sen. Richard Burr [NC]
Sen. Elizabeth Dole [NC]
Sen. Lindsey Graham [SC]
Sen. James Inhofe [OK]
Sen. John McCain [AZ]
Sen. John Warner [VA]

Important Information for the Upcoming Week

The Georgia Sales Tax Holiday Starts Thursday (7/31) and runs through next Sunday (8/03)

Early Voting for the Run-off Starts Monday (7/28) and ends Friday (8/01)
My Run-Off Endorsements

Saturday, July 26, 2008

Saturday School

The US Senate has just passed H.R. 3221, the American Housing Rescue and Foreclosure Prevention Act in a special Saturday Session of Congress

from Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi:
The centerpiece of the bill will help significant numbers of hard-working American families in danger of losing their home refinance into lower-cost government -insured mortgages they can afford to repay – at no cost to the American taxpayer. It also:
  • strengthens neighborhoods hardest hit by the foreclosure crisis by providing resources to allow cities and states to buy up and rehabilitate foreclosed properties that are currently driving down home prices, reducing state and local revenues, and destabilizing neighborhoods;
  • expands homeownership opportunities for veterans and helps returning soldiers avoid foreclosure and stay in their home;
  • provides tax breaks to spur home buying; and
  • creates a new Fund to boost the nation’s stock of affordable rental housing in both rural and urban areas for low and very low-income individuals and families.
Votes In-favor - 72
Votes Against - 13

List of Senators Votes coming soon.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Vernon Jones Needs Help

The democratic Senate Race has been reduced to name calling, at least by one candidate. Vernon Jones....who I personally believe is a closet Republican...wants your vote. Why should you give it to him? Because Jim Martin voted for John Edwards?

One Word...STUPID!

Such meaningless mess is best left out of Politics. Not to mention, at least Jim Martin was voting for a Democrat! Where are the issues. Its bad enough that Vernon Jones supports the vast majority of the Bush military & foreign policy, a big deal in the Senate, which is responsible for ratifying Treaties and appointing Cabinet Members & Generals. Personally I believe him to be another Joe Lieberman in waiting, lacking the prestige of course.

Did I mention that Jones Voted for Bush...TWICE!!

Thus, I SUPPORT JIM MARTIN FOR SENATE! and I encourage you to do the same.

Friday, July 18, 2008

Tourism vs. Fire Safety?

Not too long ago the Atlanta City Council voted to lower sales taxes and commit to administrative cuts. The result was more jobs lost and the closing of a Historic Fire Station, the West End's Fire Station #7. That was in addition to the loss of hundreds of jobs. All to get over a deficit of $140 Million.

Shirley Franklin took the heat.

Now with three members of the council running for mayor, the media buzz is that they will consider and may approve a $40 Million investment in a new Civil Rights Center.

I don't see the city affording this...I personally consider it a judgement test.

Want More Info:
The AJC
PeachPundit

Georgia GOP In Turmoil

We already know that the GOP Caucus at the state house has some....divisions. Indeed the mess of this past session was painful to watch. House Speaker Glenn Richardson's proposal to eliminate the property tax and replace it with a state sales tax ruined the session and dominated. All for us to find out that the state is short $600 Million.

Now the Speaker is going to face a challenge from within his party, apparently a high ranking committee member lost his seat after a challenger made the Speaker an issue.

More from Insider Advantage Georgia

Friday, July 11, 2008

T. Boone Pickens Energy Plan

So...when an Oil Man, a hugely successful one a that, says lets get off foreign oil...maybe it's time to do it. I have looked at T. Boone Pickens' energy plan, and it is good. According to Pickens, we can use today's technology to cut our dependence by some 300 Billion Dollars. $$$,$$$,$$$,$$$!

Thursday, July 10, 2008

The Race for Mayor of Atlanta 2009

So far Atlanta is shaping up to be regional all-star race. This could lead to some turnover in the City Council. Names like Council President Lisa Borders, District 1 At-Large Councilman Ceasar Mitchell, and Mary Norwood, Distict 2 also At-Large could leave the city council in need of "refreshment."

Other names in the mix, State Senator Kasim Reed, Fulton County Commissioner Rob Pitts (District 2 At-Large), and talk show host Clark Howard.

With the city in this kind of turmoil the 09 election looks to be serious, and seriously crowded.

Qualifications for Mayor of Atlanta
from Article 3, chapter 1 of the Atlanta City Charter, page 37, line 31 - page 38, line 17

SECTION 3-101.
Election; term; limitation of term.

The mayor shall be elected from the city at-large for a term of four years commencing on the first Monday in January after each regular municipal election, and he or she shall serve until his or her successor has taken office. Any mayor who has been elected for two consecutive four-year terms under the provisions of this charter shall not be eligible to be elected for the succeeding term.

SECTION 3-102.
Qualifications.

To qualify for election as mayor, a person:
  1. Must be at least 18 years of age;
  2. Must be a resident of the city for at least one year immediately preceding the date of his or her filing of notice of candidacy to seek office;
  3. Must be a qualified elector of the city; and
  4. Must not be an employee of the city.
To hold office as mayor, a person:
  1. Must continue to possess the qualifications prescribed in Section 3-102(a); and
  2. Must not hold any other elective public office or hold any position of employment with the State of Georgia, any county thereof, or with the city.

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Endorsements

I am officially endorsing these candidates for office. I find them to be the most capable of fighting for their districts and this state.

The of these candidates I did not vote for David Scott or Roger Bruce because I do not live in his district. It is not normally my practice to endorse anyone who I cannot personally vote for, however these are exceptional candidates, that are far better than their challengers for various reasons.

Monday, July 7, 2008

Advanced Voting Has Begun!

Across the state of Georgia people are voting. This week is advanced voting week, just take any one of the six accepted forms of I.D. to a county specified polling center, and vote. Advanced voting runs the week immediately before any election, from Monday - Friday.

For More Information Checkout

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

5th District Debate Recap & Endorsement

The race for Georgia's Fifth District will end on July 15. The Atlanta Press Club Debate, a pillar of Georgia Politics, was missing incumbent Rep. John Lewis. An interesting debate that included Rev. Markel Hutchins and State Rep. "Able" Mable Thomas asking questions to an absent John Lewis. The debate included a lot of personal points of contention, and was lacking on the policy side.

The most important thing in my opinion was this both of the candidates spoke alot about change (Hutchins) or bringing more money into Atlanta (Thomas). Both noble goals for the 5th District. However, change in Congress means a Majority in the House and a supermajority in the Senate. Obama is running for the single most powerful position, an executive position, where change is all about one person's leadership, vision and planning. Moreover, in Congress, seniority is everything so why would we give that up, when any newcomer is at the bottom of the pile with little influence on policy. Thomas believes that will change, I consider that idea pure BLIND idealism. More importantly Thomas as a state rep has more power to change and empower Atlanta at the state house, than she would in the U.S. House.

Both of these challengers have good intentions but lack perspective. Hutchins even called for term limits on every elected office, stating that 22 years is too long for someone to be effective.

My Endorsement goes to John Lewis, the incumbent. An American hero and legend, a strong leader, a good man.

Atlanta Press Club Debate Archives. (District 5 not yet posted)

Candidate Web Sites

Other Endorsements Coming Soon....

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

Quick Headlines

GA Senators Isakson and Chambliss co-sponsor Gas Price Reduction Act of 2008

Gen Wesley Clark Wins CQ Politics VP Madness - Democratic Edition
GM Narrowly Beats Out Toyota

My Opinion on the News
The Republican Legislation has is a basic endorsement of Bush's new "Energy Policy." It allows the States the option of Drilling Off there own shores. Democrats Beware! This is pure politics meant only to give Republicans some Campaign Rhetoric. I would advise Democrats to Amend the bill adding a more Blue and Eco Friendly Spin, thus eliminating some Republican talking points.

GM beating out Toyota gives hope for a revitalization of Detroit. The changes will be rough and jobs will be lost in the short term, but maybe we can build a stronger Detroit that may once again give Americans jobs and great cars.

Oopsies!

A slight mistake leads to hilarity. Enjoy

Monday, June 30, 2008

Ret. General Wesley Clark vs Sen. McCain


Sen John McCain was a P.O.W. during Vietnam and endured being tortured by the enemy. All Americans should be grateful for his, and every veteran's, service to this nation. However, his credentials are rightly under review.

Retired 4-star general Wesley Clark is one of few people that can call into question Senator McCain's "military leadership credentials." and he does so stating that

"He hasn't been there and ordered the bombs to fall. He hasn't seen what it's like when diplomats come in and say, I don't know whether we're going to be able to get this point through or not,"
The former General makes a valid point. McCain is a good man but the strategic military experience he claims to have is smoke and mirrors. But, what about the War in Iraq and McCain's call for a surge? McCain has one excellent characteristic, he listens to the generals, and echos them loudly. If Bush had done so from the beginning, the war would have made a turn for the better years ago.

Some of my colleagues from the Right of Center would say that Obama doesn't have that experience either. However unlike McCain he doesn't claim to have those credentials.


Wednesday, June 25, 2008

The City of Buckhead - a Bad Idea

I feel it must be said that the idea of the City of Buckhead is the bad not just for Atlanta but also for Georgia. Atlanta already needs more money than it could ever take in, given its current boundaries. The state has to take the hits in order to fund the city's needs and keep it a functioning, decent capital.

Georgia Politics often plays Atlanta vs. the rest of the state, however the same people, namely Republicans including the Governor, who like to campaign that they are for South Georgia, have to play to the desires of Atlanta Republicans that have the money they need to campaign.

Things like the incorporation of Sandy Springs prevent Atlanta from growing and becoming self supportive. So if you like a dirty, unsafe city not to mention a dysfunctional airport create the City of Buckhead. We will all suffer.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Top 5 Picks for Veep

I present theses picks for both parties. Each would be good for the nominee and would serve as an excellent running mates. So here they are my top five Veeps.

Senator John McCain (R) Arizona,

  1. Fmr. Gov. Mitt Romney (Massachusetts)
  2. Fmr. Gov. Mike Huckabee (Arkansas)
  3. Sen. Joe Lieberman (Connecticut)
  4. Gov. Sarah Palin (Alaska)
  5. Gov. Charlie Crist (Florida)
Senator Barack Obama (D) Illinois
  1. Ret. Gen. Wesley Clark
  2. Gov. Bill Richardson (New Mexico)
  3. Sen. Joe Biden (Delaware)
  4. Sen. Hillary Clinton (New York)
  5. Fmr. Sen. John Edwards (North Carolina)
For Obama Gen. Wesley Clark provides strong leadership and can go toe to toe with McCain on anything from Foriegn Policy to the military add to that military efficiency and logistics and you have yourself a veep.

Monday, June 16, 2008

Gore Endorses Obama!

Al Gore, former Democratic Nominee for president and Democratic party heavyweight has endorsed Barack Obama for president. Gore declared from an Obama rally in Detroit's Joe Louis Arena that experience is not a prerequisite for leadership, and that elections matter to us all.

Gore's endorsement called for change, accentuating Obama's green polices and initiatives. This is Al Gore's first political appearances. This endorsement will help boost Obama's profile in Michigan and the Ohio River Valley.

Ladies and Gentlemen, THE ANSWER IS BLUE!

Saudi's Increase Production

So what do you when your best customer can't afford your product? You lower the price. Recently the Saudi's announced they would increase oil production in an effort to lower gas prices. Americans over the last few weeks, since about the time Bush's request was rebuffed, have been engaged in a very real debate over Oil prices, $4+ Gas and ways to get away from those crippling things.

This debate, wither it involves drilling for more oil as Republicans want or utilizing alternative fuels and raising MPG standards as Democrats want, eventually deals a major blow to the Saudi's and other foreign oil powers. I encourage American's to keep the debate going. The Saudi's need this debate to stop. It would take 5-10 years for any American plan to get to full steam, so by lowering prices the Saudi's take a small hit now so they can ride America's addiction as long a possible.

It is our duty as American's to rid ourselves of foreign oil and influence regardless of party.

Friday, June 13, 2008

Breaking News

Today the world morns the loss of one of the nations greatest journalists. Tim Russert, Host of "Meet the Press" on NBC, passed today, he was 58. My condolences to his family and friends.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Quote for the Day

Elections are won by men and women chiefly because most people vote against somebody rather than for somebody.

Monday, June 9, 2008

Wait One Minute!

In yesterdays debate Vernon Jones showed up nearly 30 minutes late. This is unacceptable. As a candidate for the U.S. Senate you would leave this state in political peril. We need leaders that will advocate for this state, and Democrats must present a better image and a more together candidate. I have immense respect for Vernon Jones as the CEO of DeKalb county but he must do better to win my vote. I encourage you to watch the Forum and decide who gets your vote.

Many Thanks to Georgia Politics Unfilitered for posting a link to the debate.

View the Candidate Forum Here

P.S. The Atlanta Press Club has posted their debate schedule.

Sunday, June 8, 2008

Great Political Figures (#1)

This is the first installment of the Great Political Figures series. These Men and Women from both the left and the right have helped shape our nation and our world. Their contributions to history and to the people and places they served is paramount. Their ideas and ideals shape my own and contribute to my own ideal of what a politician should be. These men and women are not perfect. The first of these is renowned as one of the most corrupt politicians in Louisiana history. Nevertheless, he changed the lives of those he served. While I abhor his ethics as they are commonly expressed, he gave a voice to the voiceless and worked for the benefit of those who needed help.

Huey P. Long (Democrat) - August 30, 1893 - September 10, 1935
Bio from Social Security Online

Huey Long was Governor of Louisiana from 1928 to 1932 and was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1930. A nominal Democrat, Huey Long was a radical populist, of a sort we are unfamiliar with in our day. As Governor, he sponsored many reforms that endeared him to the rural poor. An ardent enemy of corporate interests, he championed the "little man" against the rich and privileged. A farm boy from the piney woods of North Louisiana, he was colorful, charismatic, controversial, and always just skating on the edge. He gave himself the nickname "Kingfish" because, he said, "I'm a small fish here in Washington. But I'm the Kingfish to the folks down in Louisiana."

Huey Long was the determined enemy of Wall Street, bankers and big business and he was also a determined enemy of the Roosevelt administration because he saw it as too beholden to these powerful forces.

Huey Long did not suffer from excessive modesty. A high-school dropout who taught himself law and got a law degree in only one year of study, Long was confident he would become President of the United States in 1936. So confident was he that he wrote a book entitled My First Days in the White House in which he named his cabinet (including President Roosevelt as Secretary of the Navy and President Hoover as Secretary of Commerce) and in which he conducted long imaginary conversations with FDR and Hoover designed to humiliate them and show their subservience to the boy from the piney woods of Louisiana.

The Kingfish wanted the government to confiscate the wealth of the nation's rich and privileged. He called his program Share Our Wealth. It called upon the federal government to guarantee every family in the nation an annual income of $5,000, so they could have the necessities of life, including a home, a job, a radio and an automobile. He also proposed limiting private fortunes to $50 million, legacies to $5 million, and annual incomes to $1 million. Everyone over age 60 would receive an old-age pension. His slogan was "Every Man A King."

Saturday, June 7, 2008

So what does it take to win Georgia


This map shows the last time each of the 159 counties in the state of Georgia went for a Democrat in a Presidental election. The last Democrat to win Georgia was Clinton in '92. Fulton County hasn't gone for a Republican since 1972, the year of Watergate. The entire state went for Nixon.

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Elections at the House

As student elections rap up at Morehouse, I am intrigued by what has occurred over the past week. At 12:01 AM Last Sunday, our campus "Went Green" for SGA Presidential candidate Mark Antony Green. Mountain Dew Logos Sprouted Up rebranded Marcus Daniels '08. Campaign Sites went online, UPS' whiteboard advertisement became the Marcus Daniels SGA Whiteboard. It has truely been an interesting week. Perhaps the high point for the week was the emergence of Chad Mance as a strong Candidate for office at the Debate, not to mention Marcus Daniels throwing up the Kappa "Yo" while Mark Green was answering a question on his Fraternal Allegiances.

I wonder what will become of this week. Will Upstart Chad Mance be victorious? Who will be the next treasurer? Will the corruption cease? Will the next SGA have an approval rating higher than 40%?

Friday, March 21, 2008

The Obama Factor


He can rally the youth to break stereotypes. He can infuse hope into a culture of fear. He dares to challenge the American societal ills. Indeed the Obama movement has broken the standard rules for success in American Politics. Victory for Obama may trigger the next shift in American Politics.

America has been in a long night, a time of darkness, since the 70's, a deep darkness across all America. This darkness descended upon us all with the deaths of Dr. King, John, & Bobby Kennedy. A kind of arrestingly cold fear, a stunning blow brought on the fall of hope and light, and the rise of fear and darkness. America and especially African Americans took blow after blow to their collective dreams. The failure of "The Great Society," The Crack-Cocaine Epidemic, Reganomics, the unleashing of super capitalism all made life so tedious. Money and power became the chief goal of man. The wool was over our eyes. 9/11 was a hateful exposure to the light for the Most Powerful Nation in the world. But, this light was not hope but vengeance, and the powers that be did not believe in hope. Instead of turning hate into a better way forward, it was used to fertilize fear.

Now after almost 7 years of hate and fear and war, the opportunity to change has arisen. Here and now, change is critical. Barack Obama could very well change the current course of American History. No we cannot change the past, but the future is molded in the present. Obama has given the youth of a nation hope. This X-factor causes a sort of unease; too many have gone too accustomed to the dark. To trust someone with their dreams, someone who says they will change things, so easily seems like Volcano Insurance in Rhode Island. But at some point don't we have to put our faith in something other than money? This X-factor could alter the state of the world. Billions of lives will be changed with the mere stroke of a pen, so I pose the question; who do you want holding the pen, the old guard or the one who embraces hope and change? The known factor or the Obama factor?