The election choice is clear | Napa Valley Register

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The election choice is clear

Friday, September 05, 2008

Comment

Dear editor,

The only facet of Barack Obama that the Republicans really could attack was his inexperience. And at the Republican National Convention they did. Over and over and over.

Despite the 42,000 times that his inexperience was mentioned, not once have the Democrats cried racism. Yet I read several opinions from leading Republicans that they found it so sexist that people are questioning Sarah Palin’s obvious inexperience. Why is this any different?

Well, Republicans, I find it sexist and demeaning that the McCain folks think they can trick female voters into voting for this obviously underqualified person (has anyone really thought about her kid’s names: Track, Trig, Bristol, Piper and Willow? She gave her children sled dog names. Do we really want this person in the White House?.)

More than that, let’s discuss her wrong-headed stance on the issues of abortion, global warming, that we are on God’s mission in Iraq, that creationism should be taught in schools — really? Pretty much, they’ve put Cheney in a dress. Actually, more like Cheney’s evil, but let’s take off the gender mask.

If there is one thing we know about Sarah Palin it is that she is more of the same of the incredibly deceptive, irresponsible and money-hungry breed that has currently run our country into the state it is now. The McCain camp is trying to trick people by putting in a woman and hoping we ignore the fact that she’s worse than the people in power now — and we’re not going be that stupid, are we?

Don’t fall for these tricks and please don’t be dumb and join the McCain camp because she’s a woman. If you take gender and race out of the equation in this election, what your left with is either worse than what we have now (McCain and Palin) or possibly better than what we had under Clinton (Obama and Biden). At the very least, Obama and Biden different than the terrorists in office now. The choice is clear.

Chelsea Crown

Napa

93 comment(s)

Hear Ye wrote on Sep 5, 2008 2:45 AM:

" I don't agree with everything you said but certainly do with your overall point. McCain and company are more of the same. Hypocritical in their attacks and lacking any substance other than the same old Washingtone Republican games. "

kevin wrote on Sep 5, 2008 4:58 AM:

" Wow! Liberal women have been going after Sarah Palin with a vengence. Isn't it ironic how they try to turn feminism on it's head by claiming that she CAN'T work as VP and still take care of her kids?

Whoever wins the presidency, it is a historic race. B.O. can no longer claim that as his legacy alone.

Don't forget, BOTH Biden and B.O. are LAWYERS. The LAST THING America needs now is MORE LAWYERS! "

funnyme wrote on Sep 5, 2008 6:07 AM:

" Penny,
You are giving a new meaning to the concept of anger here.
Relax.
Go do some gardening (I heard you're good at it) and take a deep breath.

Most people are not stupid nor dumb, just different values than yours.

Tolerance, darling. Tolerance! ;) "

Rich wrote on Sep 5, 2008 6:50 AM:

" Thank you for my morning laugh "

poochmom wrote on Sep 5, 2008 8:02 AM:

" While I agree with this letter and wished I had written it. I did not and don't know why my name is on it. However to the woman who called me and started yelling at me this morning, please don't call back

Penny Pawl "

glenroy wrote on Sep 5, 2008 8:03 AM:

" To a Democrat all Obama lacks is experience…..that’s all….doesn’t lack for or have anything...just a lack of experience.

Go ahead and fly with an inexperienced pilot….have your next surgery by an inexperienced doctor….build your house with an inexperienced contractor….but don’t risk our lives with an inexperienced President…. "

fmmt47 wrote on Sep 5, 2008 8:08 AM:

" Yeah, vote for Obama who thinks that all of us should "do more" for our country like pay 28% in capital gains tax when we sell our home, 39.6% in divedends tax on our investments, 30% more income tax, and retain the inheritance tax so more people can lose their family farms and businesses! The slogan "We are change" really refers to what you will have in your pocket if this candidate is elected to office. "

Common Sense wrote on Sep 5, 2008 8:13 AM:

" No, we think the sexism is more rooted in things like this (Politico):

- Democrat Joe Biden, in what he intended as self-deprecating remark, observed, “There's a gigantic difference between John McCain and Barack Obama and between me and I suspect my vice presidential opponent. ... She's good looking."

- A spokeswoman for the National Organization for Women, noting Palin’s opposition to abortion rights and support of other parts of the social conservative agenda, told Politico, “She's more a conservative man than she is a woman on women's issues. Very disappointing."

- Liberal radio host Ed Schultz used the words “bimbo alert” to refer to Palin, and the Huffington Post featured a photo montage of Palin with the headline, “Former Beauty Queen, Future VP?”

- CNN’s John Roberts recently pondered on air: “Children with Down’s syndrome require an awful lot of attention. The role of vice president, it seems to me, would take up an awful lot of her time, and it raises the issue of how much time will she have to dedicate to her newborn child?”

- Sally Quinn, who in her “On Faith” column for washingtonpost.com agreed that Palin is a “bright, attractive, impressive person,” but also asked, “is she prepared for the all-consuming nature of the job? Her first priority has to be her children,” Quinn wrote. “When the phone rings at 3 in the morning and one of her children is really sick what choice will she make?”

And don't get me started on the Us magazine article.

Both Joe Biden AND Hillary Clinton aides have stated that Sarah Palin was being treated in a sexist way. So, either the sexism is real, or Biden is a liar...choose.

Sarah Palin doesn't play victim. She plays pitbull. "

Sandra wrote on Sep 5, 2008 8:25 AM:

" You find it sexist and demeaning that the VP nominee is a woman, and then you go on to say we should not vote for her because of the names she chose for her children. Then you say, with absolutely no foundation to this, other than your already displayed very intelligent logic, "If there is one thing we know about Sarah Palin it is that she is more of the same of the incredibly deceptive, irresponsible and money-hungry breed that has currently run our country into the state it is now."
We do not "KNOW" this at all.
My goodness, if anything it was a very amusing letter written in the same vein as most of the others comments against this woman. What this letter is, is a sad reflection on the writer and a display of desperation that any thinking person can see right through. "

misfit wrote on Sep 5, 2008 8:45 AM:

" Kevin...perhaps the country could use a Constitutional Law expert seeing as the constitution was chewed up and spit out by you people. Anti-Americans you are. Now you want a secessionist in the White House too? So much for "Country First"! "

misfit wrote on Sep 5, 2008 8:46 AM:

" The Republican ticket: Different people doing more of the same! "

JustMy$.02 wrote on Sep 5, 2008 8:55 AM:

" Your rant lost all credibility when you said this;

"Well, Republicans, I find it sexist and demeaning that the McCain folks think they can trick female voters into voting for this obviously underqualified person (has anyone really thought about her kid’s names: Track, Trig, Bristol, Piper and Willow? She gave her children sled dog names. Do we really want this person in the White House?.)"

Obviously underqualified because of the names she gave her childeren?? Im no expert but maybe those names are a tribute to the childerens Eskimo heritage? Could that be a possibility?

Again you lost all credibility with your statement "

wipemedown wrote on Sep 5, 2008 9:05 AM:

" I agree, the republican ticket is laughable. Did anyone watch old man winter at his speech last night . I played the worst drinking game ever last night. I took a drink when I saw a minority in the crowd. We are in some shi if McCain and Pain are elected. "

freeport56 wrote on Sep 5, 2008 10:36 AM:

" It is very amusing to me to read this letter. I am very amused by the outright hatred from the left. BHO critizes the McCain\Palin ticket for not speaking about what is important to Americans.

I thought the Price of food, gas, and taxes were exactly that. The use of corn for Ethanol production has increased the price of food. The arrogance of the Democratic Congress over the last 21 months has led to..........NOTHING. They could have enacted Energy legislation allowing oil companies to drill areas where there is oil.

The attacks on Governor Palin reinforce to me that she the right woman at the right time to be Vice President. For the last 30+ years I have heard the Femenists talk about the "Independent Woman" as their ideal. Now that she has arrived, they fear her. But, I forgot their ideal woman can only be a far left liberal Democrat.

As for me, I'll stand up for America and a leftist over taxing appeaser.

Funny how more Americans watched the Republican convention than the Demo dog and pony show. What studio did the styrofoam columns go back to???? "

freeport56 wrote on Sep 5, 2008 11:06 AM:

" As for me, I'll stand up for America and a leftist over taxing appeaser.

CORRECTION- not a leftist over taxing appeaser. "

Sickothis wrote on Sep 5, 2008 11:31 AM:

" Common Sense - actually Ed Shultz called Cindy McSame a bimbo, and called the national review out on that report, which is a complete lie. Matter of fact he invited the author of that article to call the show, and played a clip of his own comment. So you're either just lying yourself, or mindlessly repeating false rumors. "

Sickothis wrote on Sep 5, 2008 11:33 AM:

" fmmt47 the McSame camp has admitted that the 30% more income tax is a flat out lie. So - either you are lying intentionally, or mindlessly repeating outright lies. "

Dwayne wrote on Sep 5, 2008 12:03 PM:

" From the letter: "The only facet of Barack Obama that the Republicans really could attack was his inexperience."

That's not even close to being correct... The Republican's are simply being polite in not mentioning the vast number of negative things in Obama's background.

Neither will I, because the Obama groupies are so star-eyed they don't want to hear it...

If it were just the liberals who would learn a lesson here, that would be fine, but if Obama's elected we all will pay the irreparable price that this country may not be able to recover from...

If you think that the Obama candidacy is a backlash from the Bush administration, you're probably right... But wait until you see the backlash of an Obama presidency... The pendulum is swinging further each time.... "

rogers wrote on Sep 5, 2008 12:53 PM:

" Now all the same mudslinging will start, like every other election. Conservatives will bring up that worn out phrase the "tax and spend Democrats".

I would invite all who have that tendency to review the nation's checkbook since 1980. These Reaganesque conservatives have pounded the country into debt beyond belief. If we were to be fair about it, the numbers and record alone would force us to describe conservatives as the "spend and spend and spend Republicans.

And they love to spend other people's money while "conserving" their own. More conservatives became wealthy under Bill Clinton and Democratic control. The nation prospered and job growth in America exploded, in spite of NAFTA. the county was left with a $275 billion surplus.

Since George Bush and the Republicans came to power this nation has lost millions of jobs, lost 1.5 million homes to foreclosure, suffered countless corporate scandals and the nation is almost $10 trillion in debt. Since 2000, John McCain has voted to support the Bush agenda over 90% of the time. That's not my definition of a "maverick" or a responsible legislator. And Mac's acceptance speech - the biggest yawn of either convention. You really want this guy for a president? "

Native74 wrote on Sep 5, 2008 1:01 PM:

" Just my$.02 - love the Eskimo heritage thought (and probably right). My first impression was that the kids names were similar to those in the 60's/70's... Free, Liberty, River, Joaquin, etc. My second impression was, you sure she's Republican with kids names such as those?

I think the whole sexist remarks that she should be home is AWFUL! What a hypocrit world we live in. Where the heck was Bill while Chelsea was growing up? Certainly not in her room reading books!

I LOVE the reversal in roles. Her husband is the First Dude of Alaska. Come on now...what's not to like about this feminist nominee?!?!? It proves to me that I can have a family (1+ children), not be afraid of being the bigger bread winner in a relationship, be fierce in the board room, look gorgeous while still taken seriously, AND have a career. First blush, she's definitely a role model to look up to... "

kevin wrote on Sep 5, 2008 1:13 PM:

" Let me think, rogers....

...yeah. Compared to the higher taxes, lower national security and bigger government proposed by B.O., I will take McCain "in a heartbeat"... "

Dwayne wrote on Sep 5, 2008 2:12 PM:

" rogers......

California would have a budget by now if not for the tax and spend Democrats... More tax here and the already drowning economy will sink.. Company's are leaving this state in droves....

Howzzat for a start...Want more...???

You probably don't remember Jummy Carter's version of a good economy do ya...???

And BTW - The dot-com explosion happened, and had nothing to do with Clinton... (Except that Al Gore invented the internet)... Haaaaaaaa.......

Try again.....;-) "

Dwayne wrote on Sep 5, 2008 2:19 PM:

" rogers.....

You are really gonna vote for a man who said that Palin's Downes baby should have been aborted...???

Wow..... Obama did vote for infanticide in cases of failed abortions because he said, "It would defeat the intent of Roe vs. Wade."

I'm getting a pretty good picture of who liberals really are, and it ain't pretty... "

sickothis wrote on Sep 5, 2008 3:11 PM:

" Common Sense nice bit of cherry-picking Quinn's article.

Here's some of what she really said:

"She has no national political experience, especially in the area of foreign policy. That fact that she is not of Washington also will be difficult for her. Barbara Bush once told me that her husband had been a congressman, UN ambassador, ambassador to China, and head of the CIA and they thought they were prepared for the vice presidency (under President Reagan). But she said nothing can prepare you for the criticism and scrutiny of being in the White House. Sarah Palin is not prepared for that.

Is she prepared for the all-consuming nature of the job? She is the mother of five children, one of them a four-month-old with Down Syndrome. Her first priority has to be her children. When the phone rings at three in the morning and one of her children is really sick what choice will she make? I'm the mother of only one child, a special needs child who is grown now. I know how much of my time and energy I devoted to his care. He always had to be my first priority. Of course women can be good mothers and have careers at the same time. I've done both. Yes, other women in public office have children. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has five children, but she didn't get heavily involved in politics until they were older. A mother's role is different from a father's.

These are dangerous and trying times for the entire world. This is no time to to play gender politics. The stakes are too high. And given McCain's age and history of health issues, the stakes for choosing a qualified vice presidential candidate have never been higher. "

sickothis wrote on Sep 5, 2008 3:15 PM:

" TODD PALIN In People Magazine: Sarah's parents were coaches and the whole family was involved in track and I was an athlete in high school, so with our first-born, I was, like, 'Track!' Bristol is named after Bristol Bay. That's where I grew up, that's where we commercial fish. Willow is a community there in Alaska. And then Piper, you know, there's just not too many Pipers out there and it's a cool name. And Trig is a Norse name for "strength." (Trig is also rumored to have significant negative connotations, but I'll let you do the homework and decide). "

sickothis wrote on Sep 5, 2008 3:19 PM:

" Californians have the 6th highest tax burden in the country Dwayne. "

reader wrote on Sep 5, 2008 3:37 PM:

" I supported Hillary, as did most of my women friends. We now all support Obama and we do not know one former Hillary supporter who even considered not voting or voting for McCain. Why? Because women have common sense and critical thinking skills; we are not wishy-washy-stupid-heads as republicans seemingly like to paint us.

To those of you who use Palin's name in the same sentence as "feminist" I say this: You don't know the definition of feminism; look it up, and Palin won't be there. Women don't vote for a woman just because she is a woman. Women vote for a woman or a man who best reflects their values, needs, interests, etc. Palin reflects none of the things that Hillary supporters hold dear. To me anyone, male or female, who holds Palin's values is down right scary. She is far to the right of even Bush! Do your homework. As mayor, she attempted to ban books from the libray and then threatened the librarian's job when refused; she is pushing for a law that will allow hunters to hunt from air planes (that's real sporting); she wants creationism taught in the public schools (that belongs in private schools, no science or fact beind it); she does not support abortion even in the case of rape or incest (What!!??). That alone is an insult to my and most women's integrity and being! I could go on.

In picking Palin, McCain has sold out even his own moderate republican values, to win at any cost, I believe. Remember, if the republican ticket wins, Palin very well might be our next president. Give this a very long, objective thought before you vote in November. "

freeport56 wrote on Sep 5, 2008 4:07 PM:

" Obama: Now, many of these plans will cost money, which is why I’ve laid out how I’ll pay for every dime – by closing corporate loopholes and tax havens that don’t help America grow.

This is misleading. Closing corporate loopholes and tax havens won’t pay for all of Obama’s new plans. In July, the campaign told the Los Angeles Times that they estimate the yearly cost of their proposed tax cuts at $130 billion. They put revenue from closing tax loopholes at just $80 billion. Obama also proposes to raise taxes to pre-Bush levels for families earning more than $250,000 a year and singles making more than $200,000, yielding additional revenue. But he didn't mention that in his speech.

Obama’s claim is misleading on another level. According to the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center, "without substantial cuts in government spending" Obama’s plan – and McCain's, too – "would substantially increase the national debt over the next ten years. But Obama's proposed cuts are dwarfed by the Tax Policy Center's projected deficits. Obama’s new spending programs might be completely offset by new revenue and spending cuts. But overall spending will still exceed overall revenue, and the nation would face at least 10 more years of annual deficits.

factcheck.org "

freeport56 wrote on Sep 5, 2008 4:16 PM:

" Obama also pulled some sleight of hand when he stated that "the average American family" saw its income "go down $2,000" under George Bush. That's not correct. Census figures show average family income went down $348.

As it turns out, when Obama said "average family income," he didn't mean "average," and he didn't mean "family," either. An Obama aide says he was really referring to median income – which is the midpoint – and not to the average. And Obama was talking only about "working families," not retired couples.

For all families, median family income actually inched up under Bush by $272.

– by Brooks Jackson, with Viveca Novak, Justin Bank, Jess Henig, Emi Kolawole, Joe Miller, Lori Robertson and D'Angelo Gore "

rogers wrote on Sep 5, 2008 4:33 PM:

" Actually I do remember the Carter days. And I remember the mountains of debt incurred after a costly war in Vietnam and the mess that Nixon left this country in. I also remember OPEC (you can't blame JC for that one - it was our fine Saudi friends). And what have the Bush crowd done to to change that dependence on foreign oil? If you want to drill here, you need to force the oil companies to keep the oil here as well, not sell to China, Japan, India or the highest bidder. Ah, but then that wouldn't be fair to the concept of a greed-driven "free market".

Actually I have a gobs of faith in what's his name? Schwarzenegger? Actually didn't he just offer a mild 2 year limited tax increase to help pay down the debt? And you guys have a real economic solution - fire everyone who works for the state and eliminate all state taxes. What a concept!

The problem here is that conservatives today don't know how to deal and compromise in government. You mistakenly assume you have some automatic moral high ground. It's your way or the highway. But, then again, you guys are always right aren't you? "

sickothis wrote on Sep 5, 2008 5:18 PM:

" kevin you don't make enough to worry about Barack Obama's tax increases. As a matter of fact, you're going to get a tax CUT!

Oh and by the way - the government under George Bush has grown to about twice that when he took office. Your protestations are childish and boorish. Back something up with facts. I know they're challenging, but at least try. "

Jasper wrote on Sep 5, 2008 7:40 PM:

" I am checking in to compliment reader for her articulate presentation of the womens' point of view. The women I have asked about the Calibou barbie all say, "Well, she may be a woman. But she's not my kind of woman."

This woman stands for social issues which affect most women adversely. As this campaign goes forward, the real issues will be brought to the surface. And Democrats will vote their values and Republicans will vote their values. And the independents will vote because they like the Caribou Barbie' s hair-do or because they are out of work or some other single issue which appeals to them at the moment.

The great thing about this campaign is that it will once again measure the idealism of the Democrats against the corporate greed and corruption of the Republicans and the sickness of the Bush presidency.

And also somewhere along the line, it will sink in that this President may be nominating Supreme Court justices, and that is the scariest thing of all. "

Dwayne wrote on Sep 5, 2008 7:48 PM:

" sickothis wrote on Sep 5, 2008 5:18 PM:"....the government under George Bush has grown to about twice that when he took office.....Back something up with facts."

Haaaaa..... Talkin' to yourself are ya...???

Et tu, Brutus..... "

kevin wrote on Sep 5, 2008 8:09 PM:

" FACT: B.O. says he is NOT going to extend the Bush taxcuts. That is a TAX INCREASE...

And I don't believe him when he says he will pass a tax cut. Clinton promised one to and never delivered. It's just an empty promise like all the Dem's rhetoric.. "

poochmom wrote on Sep 5, 2008 9:05 PM:

" While you all have spent the day praising and tearing apart this letter, I have spent the day telling people who have said it was great, that I did not write it.

I have had phone calls from an assortment of people who think it was well put and a great letter. I got to the point I wanted to pretend I wrote it.
I wanted to take credit for getting people talking about issues and differing opinions and all I could do was to tell them, sorry it wasn't me!

Penny "

funnyme wrote on Sep 5, 2008 10:00 PM:

" Penny,
Go back to your gardening.
Most of us who read this letter (originally, signed by you, by mistake obviously) are amused by the expressed point of view. Well, it turns out Chelsea wrote it, now you can call her and share credit for it or write one together so Rich can have his morning laugh and we all start another thread of political discussion...again. "

Raven wrote on Sep 6, 2008 12:13 AM:

" Dwayne the state would have a budget if the Republican minority would vote for it....their budget relies on borrowing against future revenues and making even more cuts...... The propose budget has a combination of cuts in spending and a slight increase in sales tax revenue....so everyone will share the pain........

as for the quote about Palin's child being aborted......where was it?....who published it? "

jane grace wrote on Sep 6, 2008 4:51 PM:

" I think for everyone who is obsessed about the columns at the Democratic convention you should know about the false background used at the Republican convention.

McCain' set design crew used Walter Reed Middle school in LA without permission.
It was used for the Walter Reed hospital where our soldiers go for rehabilitation post being in Iraq.

The school is usually appropriately asked for films and commercials.
McCain's staff had entitlement but more importantly if we elect another president with war as a basis for a campaign we are looking at a new wing at Walter Reed hospital.

Our entire country has respect for those serving in the military and those who have previously been called to active duty. It effects the lives of so many moving into future generations.

I hope our troops are brought home soon and we can leave a legacy of hope for our children. "

Sandra wrote on Sep 6, 2008 4:55 PM:

" Was I just not P.C. enough? I wonder sometimes, as I try so hard to be good.....but two posts did not make it through big brother today.
My posts had to do with making light of what John McCain went through in Viet Nam, and the criticism of Sarah Palin for how she named her children. How can anyone find humor in the fact that McCains story was shared at the republican convention, and liken it to being forced down our throats?
I have wondered at many of the callous things people write, and the minds behind such thoughts.
There are real issues in this campaign to be focused on, but people would rather share their mean spirits by writing letters to the editor comparing childrens names to sled dogs, or making light of a hero's service to his country.
Others jump on board the mud train, and say they wish they had been the one to write this letter after receiving many congratulary phone calls.... And what kind of people find this something worthy of congratulations?
It is one thing to joke with close friends, or family who share similar beliefs. But it something else entirely to display the bad behavior for all to see.
It makes me sad to be part of the same human race sometimes. "

jane grace wrote on Sep 6, 2008 7:12 PM:

" Sandra,

For some reason I read you latest blog and the answer is simple..It is freedom of speech and you have a choice to not engage in politics in this kind of format.

This blog is not a popularity contest and the guidelines state ''refrain from personal attacks"

The election is clear for me as I will vote for the intellect over the maverick.

Obama would have never chosen a running mate like Palin but he chose Senator Biden with whom Hillary respects. "

WorksInNapa wrote on Sep 6, 2008 8:29 PM:

" The way I see it McCain has much more experience than Obama and Biden has much more experience than Palin. I'm voting for the one running for President.

I do have to say that Palin is doing a good job taking the heat off of McCain. "

jane grace wrote on Sep 6, 2008 10:21 PM:

" For works in Napa-

I think you have to define what kind of experience you want in a president.

Since McCain voted with Bush over 90% percent of the time you are looking at 100 years in Iraq.

Obama is so intelligent and because people are not comfortable with his reserve or his insight into the future they will vote for McCain. The war in Iraq will go on for years if he is elected and every domestic issue will be out for another 4 years.

You are not just voting for a presidnet you are voting for the people of this country, their party and who will make a positive difference in every day lives.

Please give your vote careful consideration. "

kevin wrote on Sep 7, 2008 9:11 AM:

" And B.O. votes 96% with the Democrats. Real bipartisanship shown there.

Plus B.O. and Biden are LAWYERS. We have far too many lawyers in this country. We have far too many in government. We have a government OF lawyers, BY lawyers and FOR lawyers!

Intelligence in a President is highly OVER RATED. President Carter was very intelligent (a nuclear engineer) yet he was the WORST President in history! Actually B.O. DOES resemble Jimmy is a LOT of ways! You notice they didn't let Jimmy even speak at the DNC convention? They didn't want people to notice! "

Raven wrote on Sep 7, 2008 9:43 AM:

" oh yes....I know we all want a president who isn't intelligent.....are you saying McCain isn't kevin? and that is why you like him?

and explain to me why a Democrat shouldn't vote with the issues Democrats are united on? "

Raven wrote on Sep 7, 2008 9:44 AM:

" one more thing......who was the last republican president to win the Nobel peace prize...since Teddy I mean....since 2000 Carter and Gore have been won the prize...just asking "

Sandra wrote on Sep 7, 2008 11:39 AM:

" One of the main reasons I have come to support McCain over Obama has to do with McCains displayed bipartisanship. He has demonstrated a willingness to work with both sides to get a job done. Obama, has only worked with his side. He has never reached across the to the republicans.
He record is one of the most liberal in the senate. Add to that his partisan nature, and I have to wonder just how effective will he be? His views are so extremely liberal that I really cannot see much cooperation from the senate or house republicans, especially since Obama has never demostrated any ability in working with them on anything.
McCain has promised to cut government, to put democrats and republicans in his cabinet, and to have the most abled person do the job. I think he is more experienced in bringing both sides together. If we are to accomplish anything in the next 4 years we need someone who can do this.
Obama is an intelligent man, certainly. But so is McCain.
What we need is someone who can bring our country togather and end the gridlock in Washington to effect positive change. I think the McCain/Palin ticket is the best for this job. "

Paddy wrote on Sep 7, 2008 11:45 AM:

" What an unbelievably venomnous rant from the far left. Typically way off the mark. For those of you who have forgotten, Obama's mentor and acknowleded spiritual leader Wright (can't bring myself to say reverand) who has not only publicly blasted the United States of America but whites as well. Of course this is not pertinent to those who sole objective is to tear down the country that so many have shed blood and died for. Pathetic! "

WorksInNapa wrote on Sep 7, 2008 12:07 PM:

" For jane grace:

I want the president of the United States to have enough experience to best lead this great nation. You say Obama is “so intelligent” yet McCain and Obama have about the same IQ. (yes, I know that IQ only test academic intelligence for rating reasoning ability.)

Yes, McCain voted with Bush over 90% of the time in 2007 and Obama voted with bush 40% of the time but I don’t know what that proves unless you think Bush will run things after the new president takes office.

Obama has said, “ You know, John McCain wants to continue a war in Iraq perhaps as long as 100 years." The actual quotation by McCain was after a reporter talked about the Bush administration's willingness to keep troops in Iraq for 50 years: “Make it a hundred ... “[then after talking about having kept troops in Germany and Korea for several decades] “That's fine with me as long as Americans are not being injured or harmed or wounded or killed." I’m sorry, but I’m not hearing that McCain WANTS to continue a war in Iraq for 100 years.

On domestic issues I don’t see much difference between Obama and McCain. I do see a big difference in national security issues and if you go by what the people want, the polls show they want McCain to handle the war.

I personally see both Obama and McCain as weak in many of the areas which concern me and I don’t like that. That’s why I said after careful consideration that I’m voting for the lesser of two evils. "

kevin wrote on Sep 7, 2008 2:40 PM:

" If someone votes in sync with his party 90% of the time and someone else votes in sync 96% of the time with his party, which one is more willing to promote CHANGE and bipartisanship?

Come on Raven, try REAL hard, you can get it! "

Raven wrote on Sep 7, 2008 4:26 PM:

" getting testy there kevin?...I would say that voting in sync with your party has no bearing on what if any change you may bring.....again...why is it a bad thing to vote for the things your party wants?...I have no problem with McCain having done it or Obama...

my issue is with the policies the Republicans want to continue...so anyone voting 90, 96 or 100 percent with those policies is not good...as anyone who votes for the things I believe in is in my favor, whether they vote 90, 96 or 100 percent....and the Democrats, for the most part, are pushing a platform I agree with and that would be a change for the last 8 years of the Bush agenda...

and can you explain to me how someone working in Washington over 20 years is more likely to bring change then someone only there 4 years...well 3.5....on face value it would seem the 20 some year vet is less likely to bring change then the new kid.... "

JWK wrote on Sep 7, 2008 5:28 PM:

" Could anyone really be anymore Intellectually Dishonest or is it Challenged than the writer?? Unbelievable!! That's a large glass of Kool Aid your drinking and with your eyes completely closed!! A community Agitator qualified for anything?? "

B-Side wrote on Sep 8, 2008 8:44 AM:

" wipemedown

That bit about the drinking game is hilarious. "

antipc wrote on Sep 8, 2008 12:22 PM:

" It appears Chelsea was raised by a pack of hyenas.

Sarah Palin becomes the epitome of the feminist movement & because she doesn't follow the leftist mantra she is ridiculed for accomplishments. Talk about a bunch of back-biting female dogs. Hypocrisy at its finest.

At least sled dogs don't eat their own. "

Ruff Limblog wrote on Sep 8, 2008 3:40 PM:

" auntiepc - Sarah Palin hasn't been elected to be 'the epitome of the feminist movement'... not even on 'American Idol'.

Unless you have the only vote.

Has she been out leading the feminist movement, maybe? If so, when and where?

Could we have bought her 'feminism' book under a pen name maybe?

There's very little that my wife regards as admirable in Sarah Palin's life story (as much as we are allowed to know about her life story by the corporate-controlled media).

Only Republicans would think that just having an 'important' job makes you a feminist.

So the biggest claim to belonging to the feminist movement much less being in a position of leading it is what, exactly?

~Ruff "

Sandra wrote on Sep 8, 2008 4:02 PM:

" Antipc, you too seem to have noticed the trend of the scorned left. It seems if any woman, or any person of color dares to be a role model not reflecting their views, then they are fair game for any form of derision that can be imagined. The same tactics that they so strongly object to when directed at their "people" are engaged in with gusto at the opposition.
Personally, I am pretty sick of this behavior from both sides.
Wouldn't it be nice if we could just stick to the issues? "

Raven wrote on Sep 8, 2008 5:53 PM:

" so, anti...its okay to attack Chelsea but not okay to challenge Palin?

Seems to me that all this 'leave Palin alone' hoopla coming from McCain and Company is the worst kind of tokensim....would they lay off a male candidate...no, so why should Palin get a pass because she is a woman....?

any candidate for office is fair game to the most intense kind of questioning and investigation, male or female "

misfit wrote on Sep 8, 2008 6:53 PM:

" Dwayne...When was the last time YOU gave birth to a baby or, were pregnant? As far as I'm concerned, NO man should have any input at all since it's the mother who ultimately, will raise that child. Yes, Fathers do assist in raising children and should provide for them a stable environment, financially and hopefully emotionally. But, we all know that throughout history, the father's role has been "Optional" in the eyes of many men. It is a disgrace that men have acted in this manner and men have not held themselves or each other accountable. That's the faith I have in men. As in rape, why have men not come down harder on the perpetrators? They are all responsible for not ensuring the health and safety of women. So, until MEN can cowboy up a bit and act like the Men that they are, they have no say in what choices a woman makes for herself.
I had an uncle who would not allow his wife to have a needed hysterectomy. He was strictly religious. Is that sick or is that God's way? "

russ wrote on Sep 8, 2008 7:18 PM:

" Wow! misfit, hadn't come to realize that you were of the female persuasion.

You remind me of an old divorced lady friend who frequently commented that all men are dogs! "

russ wrote on Sep 8, 2008 7:24 PM:

" The tone of Chelsea's letter and many of the comments here and similar from far left media will assure that John McBrilliant wins the presidency and that Sarah Palin becomes the model of feminist success.

Sarah Palin will become the most well known role model for young women in our country. Bet on it. "

PlasticPinkFlamingo wrote on Sep 8, 2008 10:23 PM:

" raven says: any candidate for office is fair game to the most intense kind of questioning and investigation, male or female"

So what kind of questioning and investigation did you conduct before you decided for Obama? "

jwk wrote on Sep 8, 2008 10:30 PM:

" Thank God for Sarah. The Liberal Biased Media has been exposed and gone too far this time. You side is falling apart and eating each other. SO much for laying off the Politicians Children when they are Republicans. "

Raven wrote on Sep 9, 2008 5:10 AM:

" hmmm....well I actually looked at his record instead of relying on half baked rumor mongers .... and he has been vetted thru the public process of an 18 month campaign.... "

Sandra wrote on Sep 9, 2008 9:12 AM:

" " so, anti...its okay to attack Chelsea but not okay to challenge Palin?"
Raven, did it ever occur to you that mature adults do not want to trash Chelsea Clinton (I am assuming you mean her and not the writer of this silly letter), or Sarah Palin. Did it ever occur to you that there are real issues in this race and that comparing her children's names to sled dogs is idiotic?
Also, if you are going to make claims about her stances, that you should back them up with something more than saying it is "wrong thinking"? Or that she is "Cheney in a dress"? I cannot believe the writer said such foolish things, and then asks us "we’re not going be that stupid, are we?" LOL come on now...who is really being stupid here? "

russ wrote on Sep 9, 2008 1:24 PM:

" raven,

Obama has been vetted over many months. The more the American people vet him and the more they compare him to McCain, the less they like Barack Obama.

Barack is too glib and too slippery, not too black, to be elected by Americans in the Heartland. Bet on it. "

antipc wrote on Sep 9, 2008 2:48 PM:

" No need to get your feathers ruffled Raven... If Chelsea can spew that much venom on a petty personal attack, I'm sure she can take it.

Misfit, ask any real man he will tell you rapists & child molesters should be put to death..... There is no cure. The leftists agenda has weakened our sentencing laws & made the death penalty obsolete. Deadbeat dads are a product of the no personal responsibility leftists also. So put the blame where lies.

BTW, if you think Sarah Palin or anyone else is going to overturn Roe vs. Wade you need a reality check. I can't understand people who continuously put the abortion issue above all the others. "

Raven wrote on Sep 9, 2008 5:31 PM:

" okay sandra, at what point did I say anything about wrong thinking or cheney in a dress....and did I compare anyone to a sled dog? a look will show it was antipc who brought up sled dogs....

my stance is quite simple, once you enter the race for an office like the VP, you entire life is open to examination....and to ask anyone to lay off because the person being investigated is a woman is sexism, pure and simple "

Sandra wrote on Sep 9, 2008 7:07 PM:

" Raven...GEEZ...Did you even read the original letter? IT IS WHAT WE ARE DISCUSSING HERE. You did not say it, the writer of the letter we are discussing said it. It was what antipc was commenting on and what you challenged.
No one said Palin should not be studied and looked into. MY point was there are valid issues, and idocy. It seems there is way too much focus on idiocy...sled dogs/ kids names, cheney in a dress, etc., get it? If that swill is valid in your eyes, and you want to wallow in it, as opposed to really understanding REAL isuuse, well then, you just go right ahead, seems you have a lot of company. "

Raven wrote on Sep 9, 2008 9:22 PM:

" so, please Sandra, illuminate us all to the 'real' issue here....

from my point of view the real issue here it is the refusal of you and others to even discuss anything that might be of a negative nature about McCain and Palin, when the subject is broached you all dismiss the messenger and call the evidence 'swill' and accuse them of dodging the issues....so yes, tell us all what the real issue is here.... "

kevin wrote on Sep 9, 2008 9:41 PM:

" B.O. really stepped in it today. His "put lipstick on a pig and it's still a pig" comment is going to bring even MORE women voters over to Palin's side. What don't Dem's understand about this? "

PlasticPinkFlamingo wrote on Sep 9, 2008 9:59 PM:

" Maybe what he meant was that some pig's lipstick is more equal than another pig's lipstick?

Or is he trying to tell us that he can put on a suit but it is still an empty suit?

This guy Obama has had serious problems with foot-in-mouth comments the last few days. He's starting to unravel under the pressure. Just the man we don't need at the infamous 3 AM phone call. "

Sandra wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:08 AM:

" Raven, how can you be so wrong so often? If you had read my posts about Palin, you will see that many times I have said I disagree with her on issues. I have also said that I do not see how those areas I disagree with will be changed to her view for the whole country because she is VP, or even if she becomes the Pres.
The real issues are who will bring this country together to affect change? The real issues are who can work with both sides of congress, so we can begin making some progress? The real issues are whose budget do you think will work the best? The real issues are who will choose those best equipped to advise? The real issues are who has the best plan for defending our country from terrorism and other threats?
Many are just to wrapped up in gossip to see this clearly, I guess. They would rather talk about pregnant daughters, and abusive ex husbands, and whether the words "gave back the bridge money" are exactly accurate, or just sort of accurate.
But you know what? I am beginning to see a pattern of response to the tripe. Palin keeps going up in the polls. This is causing me much amusement, as I think she would make a good VP. So while part of me is sick to death of the petty gossip engaged in by small minds, the other part is sitting back and smiling. "

Sandra wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:10 AM:

" I think he meant to say a pit bull in lipstick is still Sarah Palin...... "

Sandra wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:39 PM:

" F.Y.I right off factcheck.org :

1. Palin did not cut funding for special needs education in Alaska by 62 percent. She didn’t cut it at all. In fact, she tripled per-pupil funding over just three years.

2. She did not demand that books be banned from the Wasilla library. Some of the books on a widely circulated list were not even in print at the time. The librarian has said Palin asked a "What if?" question, but the librarian continued in her job through most of Palin's first term.

3.She was never a member of the Alaskan Independence Party, a group that wants Alaskans to vote on whether they wish to secede from the United States. She’s been registered as a Republican since May 1982.

4. Palin never endorsed or supported Pat Buchanan for president. She once wore a Buchanan button as a "courtesy" when he visited Wasilla, but shortly afterward she was appointed to co-chair of the campaign of Steve Forbes in the state.

5. Palin has not pushed for teaching creationism in Alaska's schools. She has said that students should be allowed to "debate both sides" of the evolution question, but she also said creationism "doesn't have to be part of the curriculum." "

Raven wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:43 PM:

" so Sandra, lets talk the issue of experience, explain to me once more, since I am so dense, how a man with more than 20 years in Congress and who has endorsed most of the current administration's policies is an agent for change?

Palin rise can be attributed to the way the McCain administration is hiding her from the press...first interview tomorrow.....reporters told that everything she says on the aircraft is off the record....once people see who she is...and not the fantasy she has been presentingt, the polls will change...

btw, the pig quote..McCain used it last year to describe Clinton's health care plan... "

Raven wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:47 PM:

" btw here is the rest of the library story from factcheck....
In January 1997, Palin fired Emmons, along with the police chief. According to the Chicago Tribune, Palin did not list censorship as a reason for Emmons’ firing, but said she didn’t feel she had Emmons’ support. The decision caused “a stir” in the small town, according to a newspaper account at the time. According to a widely circulated e-mail from Kilkenny, “city residents rallied to the defense of the City Librarian and against Palin’s attempt at out-and-out censorship, so Palin backed down and withdrew her termination letter.” "

Sandra wrote on Sep 10, 2008 6:23 PM:

" Raven, you buy right into the talking points that McCain is just like Bush. Most conservative republicans do not like McCain. He has co authored legislation on campaign reform with a democrat. He has crossed the isle time and time again to inact legislation he felt would benefit this country. He advised President Bush against going into Iraq, and advised him that if he chose to go in, to go in full force and get the job done. Bush did not take his advice until years later when McCain continued to push for more troops, against the wishes of BOTH parties. He was willing to risk the election to protect our troops and get the job done in Iraq. He is pro environment. He wants to shut down Guatanamo bay. So explain to me how this is supporting Bush policies? If the same lie gets repeated enough, "McCAin is just like Bush", those who do not look deeply into the issues get led by their noses. This is what he HAS DONE in the past. For the future he vows to fill his cabinet with members from both parties...Again, how is this like Bush?...Heck how is it like Obama, who has pretty much followed democratic lines and never reached across the isle to work with republicans? In this regard Obama is more like Bush than McCain.
Palins rise can be attributed to the underhanded cheap shots taken at her family. People see these for what they are and come to her defense because she is so likable.
The pig quote was a poor choice of words on Obamas part. I do not think he meant Palin was a pig. "

Sandra wrote on Sep 10, 2008 6:32 PM:

" For everyones information. Factcheck.org is a great place to go and get accurate info about the tactics on both sides. There is some great info on misinformation the McCain campaign has spread, as well as misinformation spread by the Obama campaign.
Ravens example of what fact check said is from another story, and I really think those interested should read the whole article and not what Raven has chosen to share. And while you are there check out the what your side id doing also. It will enlighten those entrenched in one view point about just how dirty this business of politics is, on BOTH SIDES. For you hard core Obama and McCain supporters...well it may tarnish your idols a bit, so be prepared. "

PlasticPinkFlamingo wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:15 PM:

" Raven sez: "Palin rise can be attributed to the way the McCain administration is hiding her from the press"

That's the opposite of what reality is - if a person is out of the public eye, they are quickly forgotten. You have to be in the public eye to rise or fall in popularity.

But the Dems are the prime providers of the hot air being circulated about Palin. They are doing themselves in by continuing to talk about her. They talk more about Palin than they do about Obama. Shows how scared they are now that they realize they have put up another superlefty senator and are going to lose again. "

NapaConservative wrote on Sep 11, 2008 7:18 AM:

" in reading all of this, it really amazes me how people will pick at straws to find something wrong with candidates... I mean come on... her kids names? what does that really have to do with ANYTHING? Have we EVER analyzed why Bill Clinton named his daughter Chelsea? or why GW's daughter is named Laura.. NO so why then are we concerned about what Palin has named her kids? Find a better argument. "

jmo wrote on Sep 11, 2008 6:58 PM:

" WOW! please keep me away from C. C.'s kool-aid.

How about a little fair and balanced approach.

Well I'm holding out for the debates before I commit. I am leaning towards John and Sarah. Yes, aren't all of us on a first name bases with the candidates? After all we invite them into our homes EVERY night want to or not.

Personaly, I think Sarah will cease the moment in the VP when Joe says something way out there. "

suze wrote on Sep 11, 2008 8:14 PM:

" Boy oh boy, the Palin mania continues. I like her too, she is a great gal, but sadly unqualified for this very important job. Shooting guns. eating moose, fishing and being a small town official hardly qualifies you for representing and standing in for the President for the United States of America. Has she even travelled out of the United States of America? Don't have the time to spend on 'facts check.org,' but my hunch is that she hasn't. No, this is scary - an old dodderer and a neophyte holding the reins of the country - no thanks! "

kevin wrote on Sep 11, 2008 8:49 PM:

" "No, this is scary - an old dodderer and a neophyte holding the reins of the country - no thanks! "

I assume you are talking about Biden and B.O.?

I COULDN'T AGREE MORE, SUZE! "

kdbk wrote on Sep 11, 2008 10:06 PM:

" Here we are less than two months from the election, and in liberal-leaning Napa it's a neck-and-neck race between Obama and McCain ( O: 50% to M: 48% in the Register poll). That spells DEFEAT for Obama in Nov. But almost as sweet will be the DEFEAT of those who have supported this most pathetic excuse for a Presidential candidate. Your ideology will be DEFEATED AGAIN in our national election. "

vocal-de-local wrote on Sep 11, 2008 10:50 PM:

" Please kdbk, you cannot take the NVR poll seriously. This poll could represent the higher percentage of Conservatives who blog/post here. Generally speaking, there aren't as many liberals blogging here as Conservatives. This poll is NOT representative of Napa County's voting pattern. "

Sandra wrote on Sep 12, 2008 12:46 AM:

" Suze, She has been to Kuwait to visit the troops long before Obama went. She went in her duties as govenor for the Alaska National Gaurds. It was over a year ago. She has more experience than Obama when it comes to executive duties. I really wish people would do a little research before saying such things as you do in your post. ....But keep your head buried in the sand if it makes you happy. "

Sandra wrote on Sep 12, 2008 12:47 AM:

" volcal, you obviously have not kept track of register polls in the past. The liberal numbers always overwhelm the conservative numbers.....until now. "

jwk wrote on Sep 12, 2008 5:56 AM:

" But I thought the polls don't matter now?? According to the Lefties.. What are we to believe from the Dumocrats!! I guess they only matter when they (Biased anyway) show the Lib's Leading!! "

freeport56 wrote on Sep 12, 2008 10:00 AM:

" Suze-

How does it feel to be uninformed?

You forgot the Fact that Gov. Palin is a Governor! "

Suze wrote on Sep 12, 2008 12:38 PM:

" Freeport, that Palin is the Governor of Alaska is a fact I could hardly have missed! I believe she will eventually be found lacking, a fact only time will tell. "

antipc wrote on Sep 14, 2008 8:23 PM:

" The reason the leftys hate Sarah is because she has become a poster child for the feminist movement. But she went one step too far & thinks for herself. Critical self thinking led her to become a Republican, & that is unacceptable to so called progressives..... Hypocrites are so predictable. "

ADark1 wrote on Sep 15, 2008 8:26 AM:

" Sarah is a poster child for the feminist movement like I'm a poster child for the KKK get a grip! "

kevin wrote on Sep 15, 2008 9:28 PM:

" The "real" feminist movement BEFORE it was hijacked by the pro-abortion crowd. "

Raven wrote on Sep 15, 2008 9:58 PM:

" so, kevin, tell me more about the 'real' feminist movement... "

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