NVR Logo
Home » Opinion » Editorial
McCain for President
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Save and Share Share
Email
Print
Comment
In the hurly-burly of a presidential campaign, voters can get caught up in distractions from attack ads to zingers delivered during debates.

We must not forget that we are hiring for the most important job in the nation, and that the basis for our decision must be which candidate will best execute the Office of the President of the United States and preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.
In the view of the Register, that candidate is Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz.

McCain has the experience and the ability to lead this country in a time of enormous challenges and uncertainty, and his policy proposals in several areas are superior to those of his dynamic rival, Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill.
McCain has put country first, literally and figuratively, all his life. A decorated combat veteran who spent nearly six years in a North Vietnamese prison, he has since spent more than 25 years in the U.S. Congress. He has proposed legislation in all the major arenas of federal authority, has a history of working effectively with Democrats on a variety of issues, has chaired the powerful Commerce Committee and been involved in dozens of major decisions involving our national security and international standing.

McCain supported the military surge in Iraq long before the current administration did — and long before it dramatically reduced violence and strife in Iraq, bringing stability and the prospect for meaningful change to a land of critical strategic importance to the United States. During the Clinton administration, his support of sending U.S. and allied troops to Bosnia was the right choice — militarily, strategically and morally.
When it comes to matters of justice, McCain has used judgment that is both respectful of our 221-year-old U.S. Constitution and necessary to defend our freedoms. He has being a staunch advocate of the nation’s aggressive efforts to defend against terrorists and other enemies, but has been critical of our own missteps at Abu Ghraib. He was among a group of leaders to broker a compromise in a dispute between the president and Senate Democrats over several presidential appointees to the bench, working to depoliticize matters in an area where partisan politics rarely play a constructive role.

His proposals for the economy, including incentives for research into renewable energy and for corporations to keep jobs in the United States, are consistent with tried-and-true methods of protecting the national interest while trusting the people rather than the government to create prosperity. Though it will take more than the work of one man to address domestic and global financial problems, McCain’s experience and ability to get things done will benefit the nation.

He is committed to the search for a renewable, domestic, stable energy supply.

His proposals for health care are simply more realistic, less burdensome — and under current economic conditions more fiscally responsible — than his rival’s call for universal coverage and its unknowable price tag.

The two candidates’ views on education are similar, yet McCain’s proposals are more fiscally sound than his rival’s and leave the responsibility for decisions where it belongs, in the hands of families.

Sen. Barack Obama is a passionate, intelligent and honorable candidate whose commitment to the betterment of this nation should not be questioned. The prospect of bringing to the White House such an exciting and youthful leader is tempting.

Yet Obama’s record of political achievement is sparse when compared to McCain’s, and his ability to navigate through storms such as the ones before us is untested.

We cannot afford to project our hopes on one so unproven.

One candidate for president has the experience to lead our people through what promises to be a period of difficult choices and sacrifice in order to keep the United States what we truly believe it to be — the greatest nation on Earth. That candidate is John McCain.
162 comment(s)

comment wrote on Oct 12, 2008 12:40 AM:

" What?! Is this a bad joke? McCain is fiscally responsible? He's just more of the same.

From Factcheck:

"The nonpartisan Tax Policy Center says that without serious spending cuts, McCain's tax proposals will actually increase the size of the debt between $5.1 trillion and $7.4 trillion over the next 10 years. So balancing the budget would require cutting federal spending by 25 percent. McCain, however, has proposed very few specific spending cuts." "

amigo wrote on Oct 12, 2008 12:43 AM:

" -------------Juan McCain------------------- is a latinos best friend.

Hes soft on borders and pro N.A.F.T.A.

His social policies are in sync with all the americas.
Fight fascism: Vote for Juan "

freeport56 wrote on Oct 12, 2008 5:53 AM:

" Well done Editorial Board. It is in these very streeeful times that experience counts the most. Untested and untried are not the qualities this nation needs right now.

The other candidate has too many unanswered questions about his past and his associations to be trusted. it is no time for on the job training! "

freeport56 wrote on Oct 12, 2008 6:17 AM:

" comment- you forgt this part!



Senator Obama’s proposal would result in an average marginal tax rate of 25 percent on wages and salaries in 2012, lower than under current law but higher than if the tax cuts are extended. Because Obama would leave the top two statutory rates at 36 and 39.6 percent and reinstate PEP and Pease, taxpayers with more than $1 million in income would face an average marginal rate of 40 percent, 6 percentage points higher than under the McCain plan. Overall, because it would extend all of the individual income tax components of the 2001–06 cuts and increase the dependent exemption, the McCain plan would lower the average EMTR for all households slightly relative to a tax cuts extended baseline and significantly compared with current law. "

rpcv wrote on Oct 12, 2008 7:08 AM:

" I am surprised and disappointed in your endorsement of John McCain for President. It is time for a President who will repair our terrible reputation around the world and ameliorate the tremendous damage to our economy brought on, in part at least, by the disastrous invasion and occupation of Iraq. Barack Obama will thoughtfully seek a variety of opinions and make decisions based on research and fact, not intuition or his spiritual connections. He will listen to and work effectively with others to change the direction Mr. Bush has taken our country during the last eight travesty-filled years. "

msdemo wrote on Oct 12, 2008 8:20 AM:

" When I opened the editorial page this morning, my jaw hit the table. I could not believe the Register would suggest a vote for McCain. If for no other reason than this gives Palin a toe hold in pubic office. Her views set the women's rights issues back 50 years.

I won't stop the Register as others I know did in 2000 and 2004 when you endorsed Bush who has turned out to be a total flop but I wonder if this is a local board or the owners of the newspaper who decided this. It does make we think a lot less of those in charge of your paper. It certainly does not reflect the views of this area "

misfit wrote on Oct 12, 2008 8:35 AM:

" How has McCain put the country first?
Why not stop with all of these cliches and talking points and look at the meaning behind the words. How has picking Sarah Palin to be next in line to the presidency, putting the country first? In fact, he failed in this, his first important decision. McCain has only, ever, put himself first and his poor judgement in even his personal life has proven that. "

benny wrote on Oct 12, 2008 9:19 AM:

" I'm sure this is a Holloween joke .
A 72 year old man that manages from his gut, has shown his propensity to be irrational and his lack of good judgement under pressure has become clear recently. Do not look at McCain's past but today.
I use to respect the register's recommendations but now must relook at all of them. "

Rocketman wrote on Oct 12, 2008 9:21 AM:

" This is probably the most ACCURATE editorial I have ever read in the Napa Valley Register. You will get your criticism, but this article is absolutely correct and shows no partisan comments. This is the most COMMON SENSE position of facts that I have seen in a long time for this most important issue. It is not about race, age or popularity; its about experience. "

kkjp wrote on Oct 12, 2008 9:36 AM:

" In making its endorsement, the Register turns a blind eye to the fact that McCain is a 73-year-old three-time cancer survivor, while simply citing his experience as the primary reason for endorsing him. But what happens in the case of a very possible scenario where McCain is elected but then becomes incapacitated or dies in office? Governor Palin, arguably the least experienced potential Vice President in recent history, would take the reins of the nation as President. This unique situation concerning a presidential candidate's very pertinent health issues demands expanded consideration not only of the qualifications of the candidate himself for the Presidency, but certainly of his running mate as well. Should that eventuality cause the public serious consternation? You betcha. "

dellasumbrella wrote on Oct 12, 2008 9:40 AM:

" You . have . got . to . be . kidding . me.


That's all she wrote.... "

NVGal wrote on Oct 12, 2008 10:11 AM:

" I agree 100% with NVR.

His economic / tax policies are what will be needed in a global economy. They may not be "fair", but they will be effective, and a strong US economy will keep us all safer in the long run. "

benny wrote on Oct 12, 2008 10:36 AM:

" I'm sure this is a Halloween joke.
A 72 year old man that manages from his gut, has shown his propensity to be irrational and his lack of good judgment under pressure has become clear recently. Do not look at McCain's past but his actions and words today.
I use to respect the register's recommendations but now must relook at all of them. "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 12, 2008 11:29 AM:

" Editorial Board I have 1 question and one observation:

Exaclty who makes up the members of the Board? If the Board is pronouncing endorsements that are aimed at directly affecting elections through their thoughtful and well articulated reasoning, we have a right to know who they are. This way one could better understand where their reasoning is coming from. For example, are they business owners, veterans, religous folk, who?

As far an an observation, it is more of a prediction - What will the Board say after the landslide victory for Obama? Will the Board then realize just how out of touch they are with the mainstream of America that is calling/crying out for change?

I respectfully disagree with your endorsement but that's what makes this a democracy....the freedom to agree to disagree. "

CLRAE wrote on Oct 12, 2008 12:41 PM:

" WOW--THE N.V.REGISTER REALLY SURPRISED ME--AND HAS ENDORSED MCCAIN AS THE VERY BEST PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE ! TOO BAD MANY PEOPLE DO NOT READ THE EDITORIAL PAGE--BECAUSE THEY WOULD REALIZE THAT JOHN MCCAIN IS THE BEST PREPARED PERSON TO RUN THIS COUNTRY--TOO BAD HE HAS TO DEAL WITH SUCH A MESS BOTH THE DEMOCRATS AND REPUBLICANS HAVE LEFT FOR HIM TO TRY AND FIX.
MCCAIN IS NOT BUSHES BUDDY--HE IS HIS OWN MAN--WITH GREAT SOLUTIONS FOR THIS TROUBLED LAND. AND TROUBLED IT IS--PEOPLE--WE ARE IN A REAL MESS. OBAMA'S IN-EXPERIENCE WILL PREVENT HIM FROM BEING A GOOD PRESIDENT--HE TALKS BIG--ACTS BIG--BUT JUST DOESN'T GET IT--INSIDE HIS HEART.
PLEASE DO THE RIGHT THING--AND VOTE FOR JOHN MCCAIN FOR THE NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA-- "

Sickothis wrote on Oct 12, 2008 12:49 PM:

" Heh. That's hilarious. I was wondering for the past few months if the Register was trying to become Faux News.

Question answered. "

proudusamom wrote on Oct 12, 2008 1:56 PM:

" It's nice to see this paper stepping up and telling it like it is with regard to our presidential candiates. No mud slinging, no finger pointing. Just a real and very dead-on stand. Even though both candiates are far from perfect, I find that experience in making tough decisions for this country is really the most important qualification for this job. "

napamomtoo wrote on Oct 12, 2008 2:23 PM:

" Hmmm, this makes me wonder who sits on the Editorial Board for the Register? I respect John McCain's service to our country but he is the wrong man for the next 4 years. Your argument about experience would hold water if Palin wasn't his running mate.
Obama get our votes no questions! "

Joanne wrote on Oct 12, 2008 3:40 PM:

" YOU.HAVE.GOT.TO.BE.KIDDING.ME!

'Nuff said. "

watchman wrote on Oct 12, 2008 4:54 PM:

" CHANGE- McCain or Obama? Why does Obama use the word "change"? The 'Very Reputable' newspaper "The Investor's Business Daily" stated on Thurs., Aug. 14, 2008
The presumptive Democratic presidential nominee's choice of the word "change" as his campaign's central slogan is not the product of focus-group studies, or the brainstorming sessions of his political consultants.
One of Obama's main inspirations was a man dedicated to revolutionary change that he was convinced "must be preceded by a passive, affirmative, nonchallenging attitude toward change among the mass of our people. They must feel so frustrated, so defeated, so lost, so futureless in the prevailing system that they are willing to let go of the past and change the future."
Saul Alinsky, circa 1946: Like Obama, he wanted "change."
"Sen. Obama was trained by Chicago's Industrial Areas Foundation, founded in 1940 by the radical organizer Saul Alinsky. In the 1980s, Obama spent years as director of the Developing Communities Project, which operated using Alinsky's strategies, and was involved with two other Alinsky-oriented entities, Acorn and Project Vote.
On the Obama campaign Web site can be found a photo of him teaching in a University of Chicago classroom with "Power Analysis" and "Relationships Built on Self Interest" written on the blackboard — key terms utilized in the Alinsky method."
Study for yourself about the radical organizer Saul Alinsky and then decide what kind of 'change' you want to follow and be under. Obama is 'new' to us but not McCain. No new big surprises with him. What we've 'seen', we will get. Also, Obama has an extremely liberal voting record. As the Napa Register says, McCain is the best of our choices for this critical time in America! "

Ruff Limblog wrote on Oct 12, 2008 5:23 PM:

" So what's new?

It's not like any progressive has been thinking that the NVR was not in the bag for Republicans all along.

I laughed out loud when I saw this recommendation, and instantly remembered how craven the NVR was when some folks called the NVR a 'flea-bite' paper when they mentioned that Republican primary candidate Rudy Guiliani was helicoptering in Up-Valley to
vacuum up fat cat cash and ignoring their reporters who wanted an interview.

Our toothless lapdog paper just shut up like they were told.

~Ruff "

Bauhausfan wrote on Oct 12, 2008 6:26 PM:

" If McCain becomes president, the next 4 years will make the last 8 look like a picnic instead of the unmitigated disaster they have been. McCain's ideology and proposals will literally reduce our country to a shell of what little is left of it.

More deregulation and tax cuts for the rich, now that will really help us out now.

It's easy to tell that the board is filled with conservatives because of the cliche filled right wing talking points they use to justify their choice.

Just to point out how badly misinformed (or is it they think you are?) they are about McCain just look at his health care proposal.

From the NY Times on Oct 6th:

"American business, typically a reliable Republican cheerleader, is decidedly lukewarm about Senator John McCain’s proposal to overhaul the health care system by revamping the tax treatment of health benefits, officials with leading trade groups say.

The officials, with organizations like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Business Roundtable and the National Federation of Independent Business, predicted in recent interviews that the McCain plan, which eliminates the exclusion of health benefits from income taxes, would accelerate the erosion of employer-sponsored health insurance and do little to reduce the number of uninsured from 45 million."

This should tell any sane person quite a bit. "

Joanne wrote on Oct 12, 2008 7:59 PM:

" Even the Stockton Record, which has endorsed the Republican candidate for P.O.T.U.S. for the last 72 years straight, got it right this time by endorsing Obama over McCain ("The Choice is Clear: Obama for President").

This endorsement for McCain is nothing short of outrageous and an embarrassment to and betrayal of the overwhelming majority of our community. "

ncwines wrote on Oct 12, 2008 8:02 PM:

" This is truly disgraceful. The Napa Register touts itself as a community newspaper -- but it is anything but that as the community overwhelming supports Barack Obama.

Did this decision to endorse come from Brenda Speth or from Davenport, IA? Would someone at the Register like to come clean??? My guess is probably not.

Napa Register -- do your job and respect your community. "

misfit wrote on Oct 12, 2008 8:17 PM:

" There's your answer to why the Register made this crazy endorsement. "More deregulation and tax cuts for the rich". There you go. "

jonb3333 wrote on Oct 12, 2008 8:23 PM:

" McCain = more taxes, more debt, more bail outs of his friends. No on McCain.
McCain = destruction of the USA "

Rocketman wrote on Oct 12, 2008 8:32 PM:

" ..............you see NVR, I told you so........age and misinformation always surfaces it UGLY head............the comments run the gammut of out right absurdity...........Obama just doesn't have it...........you got it right NVR...... "

jaspertrout wrote on Oct 12, 2008 8:45 PM:

" UNBELIEVABLE!!! Is the editor of the Register responsible for this position? Is this the position of the majority of the Register employees?
I cannot believe that anyone with even a miniscule understanding of the history of the past eight years, the history of McCain and the policies of the republican party would actually want John McCain to be president. Not to mention, not to even begin to get started on the completely vapid person chosen for him to be his running mate.
I can assure you that I will NEVER purchase or read the Register and I will encourage everyone I know to not read, purchase or subscribe to this paper. Come on Napa, we are better than this - and we deserve a better news rag! "

jaspertrout wrote on Oct 12, 2008 8:46 PM:

" I wonder who at the Register "Approves" the comments and what their bias is? "

jaspertrout wrote on Oct 12, 2008 8:49 PM:

" I would encourage the employees, owners and editors of the Register as well as everyone registered to vote in this election to read a little bit about McCain as reported in the latest issue of Rolling Stone. It can be read here...
http://www.rollingstone.com/news/coverstory/make_believe_maverick_the_real_john_mccain "

Joanne wrote on Oct 12, 2008 9:55 PM:

" The statement made in this editorial: “during the Clinton administration, his support of sending U.S. and allied troops to Bosnia was the right choice — militarily, strategically and morally” runs counter to my recollection of the historical facts, which is supported by two different sources that I have consulted, one of which I will cite for you here:

In the National Review, June 7, 1993 (article by Vin Weber)

“The debate over U.S. involvement in Bosnia has made for some strange alliances in Congress. Senate Republican Leader Bob Dole (R., Kan.), for example, is allied with liberal Senators Joseph Biden (D., Del.) and Paul Wellstone (D., Minn.) in supporting a stronger U.S. response to Serbian genocide. By contrast, Senator [John] McCain (R., Ariz.) - a former Vietnam POW and consistent Cold War hawk - is allied with Senator John Glenn (D., Ohio) in opposition to U.S. involvement.”

I have already called into question the judgment of the party or parties that decided to go forward with this endorsement in an earlier post. Now I feel compelled to also ask: Is the “factual basis,” upon which this judgment rests just as questionable? "

Raven wrote on Oct 12, 2008 9:59 PM:

" absolutely amazing...never saw that one coming and it should since the neocons who are convince the NVR is a lefty lib rage...

It is hard to argue with such an outrageous pronouncement that has no bearing in fact, for example, ignoring that McCain would tax employee health care benefits, while his health care plan may be less burdensome on business it ain't gonna help the employees at all...that kind of disregard of his plans show exactly how much though went into this decision......for shame editorial board, for shame...


btw...as I recall the NVR endorsed Bush in 2004 "

hellonaffy wrote on Oct 12, 2008 10:02 PM:

" This must be the biggest joke I have ever read in my life! Why would the register do such a thing? If you look at the numbers in Napa country, McCain is not what the majority of Napa voters wanted. Could this just be what the staff at the Register wanted? Or are we truly to believe that The Register went around and got what the average Napa citizen wanted for President? I would highly doubt that happened. The staff at the Napa Register are showing how out of date they are, and how out of touch they are with the people of Napa. I would say we boycott the paper, but it is not like most people in Napa read the paper anyways. I know complaining and boycotting will not change the Register's endorsement of McCain, but I think it will show that they need to get back in touch with the people of Napa once again. I would hope that the people of Napa would vote for the person who best represents their values and not who the paper wants them too. "

Rocketman wrote on Oct 12, 2008 10:15 PM:

" I was trying to relate to this editorial with a common sense non partisan approach. I was completely wrong in doing so as seen by the democratic responses. OK, you win. I will respond like a democrat instead. Are you people crazy??? Elect a Black man as President of the United States?? One with terrorist ties?? One that has absolutely no experience in govenment affairs?? One who sides with a preacher that hates the United States of America?? A candidate that refuses to wear an American Flag lapel button?? A candidate that wants to throw in the towel on a war that we are winning?? A candidate who's wife hates America? A candidate who picks a VP nominee who aserts that he is the most unqualified candidate that has ever been nominated for President. A candidate that has less qualifications than the Rebuplican VP nominee?? Sorry, I can't continue; I've run out of space.......... "

rogers wrote on Oct 12, 2008 10:16 PM:

" I really feel that newspapers should be objectively reporting news and issues, not trying to sway the voters, particularly in a presidential election where there is less than a 10% point spread.

I'm curious about the opinion expressed here - is it the considered view of our local editors and newspaper staff or is it the opinion of the parent company that owns the NVR? Answers Dan?

It seems that making such proclamations could be very damaging to NVR's income. In an election this hotly contested, there are certainly people who would see this "view" as political lobbying instead of an opinion piece. It may give many readers the excuse to curtail their subscriptions.

Actually as a citizen and a voter, I look to my local paper to give me facts (verifiable information). I'm quite capable of making up my own mind.

I'm also curious why NVR's "view" was not openly presented at the top of the page and linked for reader response (as usual) but buried in the Politics sub-section of the Opinion section? Sounds like you really don't want a response. Answers Dan? "

Rocketman wrote on Oct 12, 2008 10:17 PM:

" ...........and lastly..............I wasn't aware that the NVR must endorse candidates based on the majority opinion of the people???? Where do you folks come from?????? "

TheDudeAbides wrote on Oct 12, 2008 10:17 PM:

" The Register urged its readers to vote for George W Bush in 2000 and again in 2004. I think everyone can agree that that's worked out really well -- the economy's doing great, employment is up, we've beaten Al Queda, the polar ice caps have stopped melting, gasoline is cheap, and polls show most people LOVE the direction things are moving. Clearly the Register has employed the same steady, solid thinking in this endorsement as seen the previous two. Good going, guys! Thanks a bunch!!! "

msdemo wrote on Oct 12, 2008 10:22 PM:

" I've thought about this all day long. My biggest fear is that someone who is under informed will take the easy way out and follow what the paper recommends.

For myself, thinking back, I have not followed the NVR in the past on many major issues and wonder why they have wasted their time on this.

What's the name of the parent company? I want to check and see what their other newspapers have done on this subject. "

freeport56 wrote on Oct 12, 2008 11:08 PM:

" Good Job NVR for recognizing that experience counts. Funny how all the libbies come out and have questions, but will not question their own guy?? "

bettye wrote on Oct 12, 2008 11:11 PM:

" Rocketman , Did you not hear McCain correct that woman at his rally when she was spewing out the same bigotry you are..?? McCAIN SAID " HE IS A GOOD MAN ,A FAMILY MAN AND NOT A TERRIOST , YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE AFRAID OF HIM AS PRESIDENT. You must not be listening to your candidate,or is it that you would vote for anyone who is rep.? "

kevin wrote on Oct 13, 2008 4:59 AM:

" Congradulations NVR! If your editorial staff can get this one right, then there is still the possibility that the rest of the country will also make the right choice on election day! "

Bauhausfan wrote on Oct 13, 2008 6:02 AM:

" Rocketman - "Are you people crazy??? Elect a Black man as President of the United States??"

Unless you are a racist what does being black have anything to do with it?

We won't even go into all the other cliched right wing talking points you wrote in your commentary.

Again, unless you are racist what does his being black have anything to do with it? "

noblindershere wrote on Oct 13, 2008 6:45 AM:

" the nvr poll showed yesterday that Obama was favored...in the poll the NVR hosted? How does the register decide who do endorse? hopefully they will respond to this. "

ADark1 wrote on Oct 13, 2008 7:12 AM:

" Why am I NOT surprised! I do have a question for the Editorial Board.. Was this based on a directive from the Home office or from the shareholders?

No rational bunch of thinkers imho could ever come up with an endorsement of MCCain. Then again, you also endorsed Bush....like it was said, we see how well thats STILL working out! "

14obama wrote on Oct 13, 2008 8:15 AM:

" McCain is not the righteous person you say he is. He,again,has opened the race card which is a very wrong thing to do. He walked out on his wife when she was very sick and needed him for a younger,but mentally sicker woman. McCain is a very sick man ! He's desperate for the White House and will go to ANY length to get there. He will continue taking this country down like his friend Geo.Bush. Only the greedy can appreciate another Rebublican in there ! This newspaper is as sick as he is ! Wake up and vote for Obama this time around ! "

valleylocal wrote on Oct 13, 2008 9:11 AM:

" The Register has lost all credibility. What are you thinking?!?!?! I will never put any value on your editorial ever again. "

262228 wrote on Oct 13, 2008 9:29 AM:

" I was surprised and disappointed by the Register's endorsement of John McCain. During the past eight years we have watched the economy tank as the administration pursued a policy of deregulation. Not only does Senator McCain support this policy, he wants to apply a similar deregulation philosophy to health care. We have pursued a costly and unpopular war while our own country was in desperate need of domestic health care reform. Do we really need another four years of this?

And how can the Register possibly support McCain's record on women's rights? He opposed equal pay legislation and opposes restoring family planning services for low-income women. His opposition to Roe v. Wade is well-documented. In fact, McCain has voted against women's reproductive rights and privacy 125 times.

If experience is truly the criteria used by the Register in its endorsement of John McCain, how can they possibly consider putting Sarah Palin a heartbeat away from the Presidency? Please join me, and most of Napa County, in voting for the Obama-Biden ticket. "

freeport56 wrote on Oct 13, 2008 10:31 AM:

" "Tax custs for the rich"

That is such a great line. If only the poor and middle class could provide jobs for the unemployed. What a wonderful world it would be.


Obama and his increase in taxes for those making over $250,000 annually will hit our economy hard and the job losses will increase. His taxes will go to making government bigger, ending world poverty with an $895 Billion give-away to the U.N.(bill pending in Senate).

Additionally, since the left does not care about the people he surrounds himself with and he is silent about his educational past...who knows what he will do in the White House. "

glenroy wrote on Oct 13, 2008 10:39 AM:

" Rollingstone….I fell out of my chair…lol…lol….’hey dud where’s the pipe?’

For you liberalized temporary fiscal conservatives….get some real sources…..Obama’s economic plan was recently submitted to the employers across this land….you know, or maybe you don’t, the guys who sign the paychecks….74% said his polices would be a disaster for their business….let’s see how funny it is when you’re standing in the chow line…most 3rd grader learn that you get a lot more benefit out of cooperation than extortion.

Obama’s economic plan, at a minimum would add $1 trillion per year to the federal debt, this was before his ‘black magic’ tax cuts announced last week….the middle has been the victim of Democrat taxation for decades…now he’s suddenly claiming a rescue plan….where’s that pipe?


Amazing..... "

musikluvr wrote on Oct 13, 2008 11:04 AM:

" Thanks, I too wouldn't vote for a person who stated he was a muslim and has the middle name of Hussein.

I wouldn't vote for him to be dog catcher let alone president.

Militant Islamists have declared war on the United States. "

luv1mom wrote on Oct 13, 2008 11:07 AM:

" NVR also endorsed Bush in 2000 and 2004. Brilliant, just brilliant.

Obama/Biden 2008 "

joining wrote on Oct 13, 2008 11:38 AM:

" I'm embarrassed for my home town. Our local newspaper essentially endorsed Sarah Palin for president, which I believe would be the downfall of our country. We don't need another "Yes Man" for a VP. "

DPK wrote on Oct 13, 2008 11:57 AM:

" This is truly a delusional endorsement. Even if your assessment of McCain's previous record was accurate, the simple fact that he chose Sarah Palin as his potential successor, shows that he no longer has the judgement, the care or the credibility to be President. Moreover, his frequent changes of course, constant grandstanding and willingness to encourage mob-like hatred in his partisans, show that he has lost all sense of direction and is simply flailing around in the dark. You should withdraw your endorsement if you have any integrity. "

DPK wrote on Oct 13, 2008 12:04 PM:

" By the way, i work in health care and health care policy has been an interest of mine for several decades. McCain's plan would deprive millions of people of their existing coverage, while offering only a tax credit worth much less than the current cost of any reasonable plan. How is that helpful? We spend much more, for much less health care than any other industrialized nation, and he wants to "deregulate health care'? He is nothing but a dinosaur in lizard's clothing. "

DPK wrote on Oct 13, 2008 12:11 PM:

" Musikluvr: If you think Obama is a Muslim and symapathizes with terrorists, you might want to buy yourself a tinfoil hat. It helps prevent those disturbing thoughts from being beamed your way. "

NapaRedhead wrote on Oct 13, 2008 12:31 PM:

" Congrats on confirming your status as an irrelevant joke of a newspaper. That's some mavericky maverick behavior, you betcha! "

joining wrote on Oct 13, 2008 12:44 PM:

" musikluvr, I'm so surprised you sucummbed to such an obvious urban legend. You can't be more wrong about Obama's religion. Check out Snopes.com which has a thorough desrciption of Obama's religious upbringing. http://www.snopes.com/politics/obama/muslim.asp

Also, I'm offended by your remarks regarding a person's name. Those of us with a rich ethnic heritage are often saddled with foreign names. "

ADark1 wrote on Oct 13, 2008 12:56 PM:

" Figures, my comment wouldn't get posted...

well NVR looks like you'll have PIE on your face three elections in a row...I'm sure you haven't taken a look at Obamas rescue plan.

Twice you've endorsed an idiot...why not three times...oh wait...you did! "

TheDudeAbides wrote on Oct 13, 2008 12:57 PM:

" I can completely understand not voting for Obama when he's got a middle name like Hussein. Personally, I'm not voting for McCain because his name is John. Think about it -- JOHN Wilkes Booth, JOHN Gotti, JOHN Jacob Jingleheimer Schmit. This is all I need to know -- a clear and stinging indictment! Anyone named John would be dangerous if handed the reins of power. "

luv1mom wrote on Oct 13, 2008 1:47 PM:

" majrlusr says: "Thanks, I too wouldn't vote for a person who stated he was a muslim and has the middle name of Hussein. I wouldn't vote for him to be dog catcher let alone president."

Ignorance at its best. "

mrscrappalucci wrote on Oct 13, 2008 2:14 PM:

" My sense is that there are 5 members of the Register editorial board and the vote came down to 3-2. The three of you who voted to endorse McCain should take a close look at musikluvr's comments above. Way to go!
....Here's your sign. "

Joe wrote on Oct 13, 2008 2:25 PM:

" Hurray for John McCain! "

musikluvr wrote on Oct 13, 2008 2:55 PM:

" To Joining: Maybe you should read the Islamic Koran and Sharia law each of which clearly state that a person born to a muslim father is also a muslim and when a person is a muslim they are a muslim forever. You should also read that it is a "capital" offense to convert away from Islam. For your information, "capital" means the death sentence. "

musikluvr wrote on Oct 13, 2008 3:19 PM:

" You people aren't voting for Obama, you're voting against Bush and what he stands for.

Admit it, you don't like Obama but he is all you have. "

bettye wrote on Oct 13, 2008 3:34 PM:

" WHERE is McCain's FLAG PIN ????I haven't seen it lately ..does that mean he has lost his Patrotism ?? "

chickhot_247 wrote on Oct 13, 2008 4:09 PM:

" I WOULD SO VOTE FOR McCAIN IF I COULD "

a teacher wrote on Oct 13, 2008 4:24 PM:

" Everyone is entitled to their own opinion... "

joining wrote on Oct 13, 2008 6:37 PM:

" To Musikluvr: Aren't you glad we live in a society with religious freedom, and we are not bound by mis-guided notions of ancestry and inheritance? A society in which those who are born to a muslim father needn't practice any particular religion? Where those who are born into any religious sect can indeed chose to follow another path? Where those who are raised without religion can indeed find it? Wow. I know I am! "

boise1 wrote on Oct 13, 2008 7:16 PM:

" When I read on CNN that Obama has 17 papers endorsing him versus two for McCain I thought for sure it would be two papers in the midwest. I could not belive it that the Register was one of them. Unbelievable. Even the Stockton Record and the Sacramento Bee, two very conservative papers endorsed Obama.

The Napa Valley and the Register sure has changed. The Register is not the community paper I once knew. Its time to bring back the Napa Valley Times. "

Sandra wrote on Oct 13, 2008 7:25 PM:

" Well....a lot of spewing going on here.

To "Bauhausfan wrote on Oct 13, 2008 6:02 AM:"
Regarding your post...I guess you do not get irony? Rocketman was doing an imitation of the tone of things that are coming from the other side. I would guess to illustrate the small minded hatefullness...And you took it as if that is what he really meant.
I am constantly amazed at the lack of insight people have into their own behavior. They see it in others, as illustrated by your reaction to Rocketman...but when it comes from their own camp...blind, blind , blind....

Regardin those reacting to Musikluvr's post regarding Obama and the whole Muslim thing. I do not approve of the tone of his post, nor do I agree with his post, as I believe Obama's religion of choice is Christian, and I have no problem with his name.
But the Muslim world views this differently. To them he is MUSLIM, and you can rest assured, if Obama is elected, and does somethng Islam does not like, they will claim apostasy. If he lived in a Muslim country it would mean a fatwa that would be carried out by a death sentence. It would also put a a even bigger target on his back, (and the U.S. too) because it will give radical Islam even more to rally against.....Not like we need a bigger target...but they will look for whatever reason they can find to continue the legacy of hate. "

boise1 wrote on Oct 13, 2008 7:25 PM:

" Here's what you can find on CNN:


UPDATE: 17 Newspapers Endorse Obama, 2 for McCain




NEW YORK Barack Obama picked up at least 17 newspaper endorsements this weekend, including six in swing states Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Ohio, North Carolina, and Missouri. John McCain, as far as we know, gained just two.

The Wisconsin State Journal and The Sun of San Bernardino had backed Bush in 2004. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch called Obama's opponent, John McCain, "the incredible shrinking man" who had made a horrific pick for his running mate.

Backing Obama: In Ohio, The Blade in Toledo and the Dayton Daily News; the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, The Tennessean of Nashville, the Wisconsin State Journal. the Asheville (N.C.) Citizen-Times, and in California the Fresno Bee, Sacramento Bee, Bay Area News Group-East Bay dalies (about 11 papers such as Contra Costa Times), The Herald of Monterey, The Santa Cruz Journal and The Sun of San Bernardino (which had picked Bush over Kerry), plus the New Bedford Standrd-Times in Massachusetts.

Joining the Obama team in battleground states were the Muskegon (Mich.) Chronicle, the Lehigh Valley (Pa.) Express-Times and Springfield (Ohio) News.

McCain registered two pick-ups: The Wheeling News-Register in West Virginia and the Napa Valley Register in California.

E&P is charting every endorsement and the circulation size of each paper (see new chart on Monday). So far Obama leads by a 28-11 margin with at least 300 to go. (In 2004, Kerry edged Bush by about 220-205.) Send us any pick you see, to: gmitchell@editorandpublisher.com "

misfit wrote on Oct 13, 2008 7:37 PM:

" No bettye...I place no importance on that pin anyway. It's not that McCain lost his patriotism...I think he just lost the pin and can't seem to find it anywhere. Probably with his reading glasses. ; p "

rogers wrote on Oct 13, 2008 7:59 PM:

" Sandra wrote "To them he is MUSLIM, and you can rest assured, if Obama is elected, and does somethng Islam does not like, they will claim apostasy. If he lived in a Muslim country..."

Sandra, I know you're an expert in international religions and relations, but how do you know how the Middle East and Islam will respond? Fact is you don't. But I suspect they will have a lot more respect for him than George Bush who launched a war against Iraq and launches attacks into Pakistan on a weekly (probably daily) basis.

You think they will like McCain and his jokes (?) about "Bomb, bomb, bomb Iran)?

To rationalize that we shouldn't vote for Barrack Obama because he might make us a bigger target is such a typical fear-mongering conservative argument. Get a clue - he's a Christian, got it? And he doesn't live in a Muslim country, does he? So quit speculating and amplifying the garbage you read on the conservative blog sites and go vote for McCain. The rest of thinking America will vote for someone with a brain. "

lucylu wrote on Oct 13, 2008 8:00 PM:

" Hurry for NVR- they have the guts to tell the truth.. "

happyday wrote on Oct 13, 2008 8:07 PM:

" I'm not really why newspapers think it's a good idea to endorse presidential candidates. I've lived in Napa since 1979 and you've consistently endorsed Republicans. I'm a Christian and consider myself a moderate. I've voted "both sides of the aisle," as they say, and find it strange that there are folks who vote a straight party line.
The idea that McCain might (g-d forbid) die in office and put Palin - a loose cannon who I fear would manage to find a way to violate separation of church and state to impose her religious beliefs into our personal lives, and would set women back 50 years - into the Whitehouse scares the *bleep* out of me. Wrong woman, wrong job. If that happens I'm leaving the planet. I've fought too hard over my lifetime for women's rights.
It's my opinion that the publisher of the Napa Register over-rode the editorial board. Shame on you. "

msdemo wrote on Oct 13, 2008 8:29 PM:

" I get so sick of this religious thing. Who cares what religion a person has. I would vote for an atheist if I felt it was the best person. I feel a lot of these people have to pretend to be religious. Organized religion has caused more wars, and death than anything else. Remember the inquisition and the witch trials. At first, I didn't think Obama would be my choice but the more I see him and hear him, I am convinced he is the best person for the job of president. Although I don't know why anyone would want that mess. "

woman voter wrote on Oct 13, 2008 8:55 PM:

" I also believe the Publisher over-rode the majority vote of the Editorial Board. I understand that is her right as Publisher, but I do not think it is appropriate for her to not tell the people of Napa. To present the decision as an "editorial board decision" is dishonest. I join happydays in saying Shame on You! "

noblindershere wrote on Oct 13, 2008 8:56 PM:

" the publishers response to the people that gathered on the footsteps of the NVR this afternoon, " the NVR has the right to an opinion" you are correct, but when the majority of editorial board of the NVR supports Obama and the publisher goes with McCain, something isn't right here. This is a blue county and you will be printing blue on Wednesday Nov 5th, 2008, so hope the publisher orders the right color ink! Look at the post in response to the choice that was made, a larger percentage are for Obama. I always see the same bloggers for McCain (common sense, Sandra, Dwayne, musiklvr, kevin and glenroy) most of the rest of the usual suspects are for Obama. "

happyday wrote on Oct 13, 2008 9:10 PM:

" Msdemo, I agree with you about religion. I don't care what religion a person is, as long as they don't try to impose their beliefs on the rest of us. And in reviewing Gov Palin's Wasilla mayoral record, some of the things she did alarmed me. Granted, she's likeable, hard-working, and has done good as well, but one of the issues I'm concerned about is reproduction freedom.
Historically, the Republican party was the first to make reproductive freedom part of its party platform, but that changed in 1980. "

purplepaw wrote on Oct 13, 2008 9:19 PM:

" Congratulations to the NVR for getting it right! It takes courage in this political climate to put principle ahead of financial gain. I am stunned by the ugly rhertoric of Obama supporters. I need only reference "14obama's" comments as the epitome of viciousness that has come to represent the high-jacked Democratic party.
I would also like to congratulate the NVR for exercising it's First Amendment Right and hope that when the smoke clears that we will all stand united again as American's and be proud and thankful for what our country affords us. The right of free speech. "

hellonaffy wrote on Oct 13, 2008 9:25 PM:

" I truly believe that people should set aside parties, and vote for the person that best represents their values. It shouldn't matter the race, religion, or even the party. Politics are always a ricky topic to bring up with family, so for the Register to openly say who they want for President is going to cause problems on both party lines. There was even a protest outside of the Register today because of this very opinion. This is getting crazy. So again, I would hope people are going to vote for the person that is BEST for them, and not just because of a paper, or a what someone or something is telling them. "

carlon wrote on Oct 13, 2008 9:27 PM:

" Ponder the following:

What if John McCain was a former president of the Harvard Law Review?
What if Barack Obama finished fifth from the bottom of his graduating class?
What if McCain had only married once, and Obama was a divorcee?
What if Michelle Obama was the wife who not only became addicted to pain killers but also acquired them illegally through her charitable organization?
What if Obama had been a member of the Keating Five?

What if Obama was the one who was known to display publicly, on many occasions, a serious anger management problem?
What if the Obamas had a teenage pregnant daughter?

If these questions reflected reality, do you really believe the election numbers would be as close as they are?
This is what racism does. It covers up, rationalizes and minimizes positive qualities in one candidate and emphasizes negative qualities in another when there is a color difference.

Educational Background:

Barack Obama:
Columbia University - B.A. Political Science with a Specialization in International Relations.
Harvard - Juris Doctor (J.D.) with honor

Joseph Biden:
University of Delaware - B.A. in History and B.A. in Political Science.
Syracuse University College of Law - Juris Doctor (J.D.)

vs.

John McCain:
United States Naval Academy - Class rank: 894 of 899

Sarah Palin:
Hawaii Pacific University - 1 semester
North Idaho College - 2 semesters - general study
University of Idaho - 2 semesters - journalism
Matanuska-Susitna College - 1 semester
University of Idaho 3 semesters - B.A. in Journalism

Education isn't everything, but this is about the two highest offices in the land as well as our standing in the world. "

misfit wrote on Oct 13, 2008 9:42 PM:

" Barack Obama is also a Constitutional scholar. Considering the way it has been taken apart over the past few years, it will be nice to have a President that has some respect for it. "

PlasticPinkFlamingo wrote on Oct 13, 2008 9:46 PM:

" Comments from the left as expected. Blah blah blah, how could this be, blah blah blah, we are so important and why don't they recognize it?

BTW, the Obama rescue plan? Is this the plan to rescue the country from giving Obama and a Dem congress a blank check? Obama's tax plan will crush any hope of the middle class to gain ground. And no no no to socialized health care. I have talked with people in Canada and England and they are not happy with it. In England, children get great health care, and that is as it should be. But there are only so many dollars (well, pounds sterling of course) to go around and the elderly are getting the short end. Shoddy health care because of the lack of competition and delays in getting needed treatments. There is absolutely no rational reason why we have to have the DMV people (or worse yet, Barney Frank) take over our health care. The very idea makes me ill.

Lefties have to realize that not everyone agrees with them and that's the way it should be. Most of the country does not want a socialist president. Most of the country does not want a president with a shady past either, who won't answer any questions about it. Don't respond with attacks, respond with facts. Try it, you might like it. "

common sense wrote on Oct 13, 2008 10:14 PM:

" As an independent type, I have to agree...John McCain is the only choice. Congratulations to the Register for having the courage to make such an endorsement. "

boat wrote on Oct 14, 2008 12:25 AM:

" I hope whomever wins can help to bring our country together. Many of us are obviously far apart. Not all comments appear to refrain from personal attacks, degrading comments or constructive dialogue. I disagree with the choice of McCain, but the Register is just one of many newspapers. How many people do you feel a newspaper can deliver for a candidate? This paper BTW Lee Enterprises (owner of NVR) St. Louis Dispatch endorsed Obama. http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/editorialcommentary/story/B1F99407E81F92DB862574DF00716259?OpenDocument

So this does not seem to be a bias from the publisher, though it appears most of the papers are in Red States.

I have voted Republican many times in my life, but this year that will not be the case. I plan on voting for Obama an for too many reasons to explain here, I hope you will too. "

jersey guy wrote on Oct 14, 2008 7:56 AM:

" Obama's health plan is not socailized medicine unless you think that we currently have socialized medicine.
McCain's health care plan is worse than doing nothing. "

jersey guy wrote on Oct 14, 2008 7:58 AM:

" I won't vote for a person who says that he is a music lover and whose middle name is Beethoven. "

Raven wrote on Oct 14, 2008 8:25 AM:

" PPF, my wife is english and couldn't disagree more with your description of the english health care system...it provides a minimum standard of health care but allows you to obtain more health insurance and coverage from private parties is you so desire...what is the problem with that...her elderly parents use the national medicine plan exclusively and never been stinted on any needs to maintain or improve their health....

as for the facts, try them yourself...btw the majority of the country according to the latest polls seems to like Obama...7.5 point lead as of this morning "

Sandra wrote on Oct 14, 2008 8:55 AM:

" Rogers, you read an awful lot into my post that is not there based on your own pedjudices on where you think I stand.
I cannot predict with 100% accuracy what the Muslim world will do if Obama is elected...But , if he is elected, I would expect my statement about Fatwa, etc. will most likely play out.

I am a FMC so I guess I should proudly wear your fear monger tag...but in this instance that is not what I was doing. You obviously did not comprehend any of my post. I do believe I said in it, ".....Not like we need a bigger target...but they will look for whatever reason they can find to continue the legacy of hate." This translates to mean WE ALREADY ARE A TARGET...and Obama will just be a new direction in the reason to attack. McCain will also give direction, just in a different way, as Raidical Islam will, as I said, "look for whatever reason they can find to continue the legacy of hate."
Perhaps you do not care if we are prepared to deal with what Radical Islam throws our way? I, on the other hand feel a bit more secure if I can be ready, at least in my mind, on what to expect from this sick faction of the world.
You also cannot tell me to quit speculating, and in the same post speculate abiout ""Bomb, bomb, bomb Iran)?" You want me to shut up, because you do not like what I say. Too bad, so sad. This is a blog Rogers, it is all about speculation. Geesh!
Also, I get Obama is a Christian. That was really not the point. "

rage against wrote on Oct 14, 2008 9:19 AM:

" The experience argument couldn't get McCain the numbers he wanted so they brought in a woman. That didn't work so they went negative. That didn't work so they are back to pushing experience.

They say that every writer is a propagandist.

I'm guessing this paper also supported Bush (to the power of two). I wonder if experience was the reason he was endorsed. I also wonder how much this paper supported John McCain's experience while he was running against Bush.

I've never bought one of your newspapers, and now you've inspired me to actively advocate the banning and subsequent end of your business.

OBAMA/BIDEN 2008 "

msdemo wrote on Oct 14, 2008 10:34 AM:

" What I expect of Muslins when Obama is in office, is a greater liking of the USA. I have met many on my travels and they all have said they do not like our administration, they also said this in Europe and Asia. I feel it will be easier for our goverment to come reach agreement with these people. How would you feel if someone in the country trying to take you over was fighting a "holy war" Palin said something of this when she was nominated. "

JG wrote on Oct 14, 2008 11:34 AM:

" One wonders how out of synch a newspaper can be with with the majority opinion of its readers. The selection of Palin as the VP nominee should in itself be enough to make the choice for McCain ludicrous. Did you give even five minutes to think this through? We will have an even greater disaster on our hands should Palin have to assume the Presidency. The Register's choice is insulting and irresponsible. How low can this paper go, you wonder. "

suze wrote on Oct 14, 2008 1:05 PM:

" I guessed all along that Republican was the camp of the Napa Valley Register. If you read between the lines (editorials) and what is left out of the paper, their position was fairly clear. I am just surprised they should announce their fealty like this. However, it is not a quality newspaper I refer to for any real news, just a little occasional idling. "

PlasticPinkFlamingo wrote on Oct 14, 2008 1:11 PM:

" Raven - One of my sources for the socialized health system in England is a medical doctor there that I have had discussions with. The information is about the current situation there. I'll stand by my source. The Canadian remarks were very similar.

Sandra - it's a standard response of lefties that they tell you to shut up, twist up what you say, or deliver a personal smear. Facts and rational discussion ain't in it, just blind ideology. Notice from the left, very little factual discussion, lots of really ugly rhetoric. I have cut down on my posting here because (boy am I going to step in it now) you can write down facts and give them to the pigs, but they won't read them, they'll eat them, and all you'll get back from them is . . . OK, that's enough.

I am amazed at the hatred some of these people have for Sarah. If you don't like her, don't vote for her, it's as simple as that. But lefties are east and west coastal, and look down upon everything in between. Even though Alaska is a coastal state the inhabitants are closer to the Midwest and Rocky mountain states in perspective. The lefties can't stand that kind of independence from their socialist garbage. So no matter what Sarah says, they will continue to insult and assault her. Look at all the ugly things they have already tried to smear her with, and they will continue to try.

BTW did you hear Obama telling that plumber that "spreading the wealth" is a good thing? Unfortunately, Obama was talking about the plumber's income and I doubt the plumber was impressed. Keep talking Obama, people are starting to figure you out. "

Yikes wrote on Oct 14, 2008 1:52 PM:

" Right on NVR.
We must not forget that we are hiring for the most important job in the nation, and that the basis for our decision must be which candidate will best execute the Office of the President of the United States and preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. "

GoMommyGo wrote on Oct 14, 2008 2:06 PM:

" The Register endorsed W in 2004 for Pete's sake! How's that workin' for ya?

This year they've endorsed the man whose economic guru is Phil "The Deregulator" Gramm. His campaign mgr, Rick Davis, was a lobbyist for Freddie Mac until 2 months ago. Even thinking people on the right recognize Sarah Palin as a mistake.

So much for that liberal media bias. "

Hear Ye wrote on Oct 14, 2008 3:01 PM:

" PPF-

You REALLY don't see the conservatives on here, including yourself at times, doing the exact same thing you are criticizing the "lefties" about?

Where are the factual discussions from the right at? All these months and we still have to hear the Obama is a Muslim smear, his birth certificate is fake, he "pals around with terrorists", smokes crack, has a secret muslim agenda, is a crazy black christian, isn't "american", and many other smears from the very people you align yourself with on this site. Both sides spew talking points from the campaign of their choice. It does you no justice to try and claim this is flaw of only the left. Like you said about Palin, if you don't like her, then don't vote for her, it's as simple as that. Why doesn't Obama qualify for this same standard that you hold Palin at? "

a teacher wrote on Oct 14, 2008 4:13 PM:

" On Health Care:

The difference between the approach to health care (and many other issues) in the USA and other countries is this: If today I am driving home and I have an accident, the financial outcome depends on where i had the accident. If I am a Canadian(or Britan), I don't have to worry about the bills, they are taken care of. If I'm an American, well it depends.

Me, I'm OK, I have a pretty good package with Kaiser. However, if you are one of the 45 million without health insurance, then you're in trouble. If you are under insured because your job doesn't have a good benefit , you are also in trouble.

Someone near and dear to me is battling cancer. She actually has health insurance, but because she is in the midst of a career change (she is, ironically, studying to be a nurse) she has to pay fully for the coverage and has hefty co pays. She is asking the question, will she have to sell her house to make ends meet.

That is not a conversation you have in Canada, Britian, France, Germany, Japan, Taiwan, The Netherlands, Spain, Italy, or many countries with universal health care.

Many of the people on this site portray the left as looking for handouts or taking money from hard working people. It's a cartoon characterization.

It's really about security. Most Americans worry about their lives being turned over by catastrophe. As a leftist and liberal, I ask: What is a Government for if it doesn't protect you from misfortune? That is not a handout. "

PlasticPinkFlamingo wrote on Oct 14, 2008 4:56 PM:

" The problem in those socialized countries is the rationing of health care, and it has to be rationed. There is no possible financial way any government can provide every medical service that everyone thinks they might want. Some bureaucrat has to apply the rules along with whatever else the boss says to do (if they want to keep their cushy government job).

The next worst outcome of government controlled medicine is social engineering - having the government decide if they want to spend money on you. What if the current party in power decides to covertly cut back on registered voters of the other party? Pretty easy to do in this computer era, match the lists. That's not a cartoon characterization. Do not depend on the 'milk of human kindness' while you're talking to a bureaucrat.

Read the history, our government was not established or authorized to provide a cradle to grave nanny state, that's socialist disinformation. Nowhere in the Constitution does it say you will be protected and covered from everything. However, we now have raised a generation of "me me me" people (of left and right political persuasions) who think nothing of taking the money from my working wallet and putting it into their non-working wallet, as Obama says to "spread the wealth". They cheerfully vote for it, but they don't have a clue as to where it will eventually take us. Or maybe they don't care as long as they get theirs first. This attitude is so pervasive now, and it has a lot to do with the current financial mess. All those people in government and in the financial towers all grabbing all they can, while they can. "

misfit wrote on Oct 14, 2008 6:11 PM:

" My goodness PPF. WHAT Planet are you from?. Don't you think this "Social engineering" is going on right now? Don't you think healthcare is being rationed right now? It seems that you must be one of those "Me me me people" that you speak of. Clearly you are one of the fortunate ones, through your own making of course, or maybe your parents...who knows. But, insurance companies already turn down coverage, often for those with the cheaper policies, i.e. the poor or lower middle class. Off they go, off of the voter roles! (You brought it up). And, what do you think happens to the voting rights of those with NO insurance coverage because they can't afford it, lost it or are uninsurable? These people simply die. I doubt they are part of the Republican base.
You don't seem to care a bit about the exorbitant salaries and perks of the CEOs of these large HMOs and insurance providers at the expense of the inadaquately "Assured" health care of their customers. You expect this problem to have a black or white answer and there will never be one. Considering that, let's try to err on the side of what would be the humane thing to do in a civilized society and that is to ensure that no American
will go without affordable healthcare. "

woman voter wrote on Oct 14, 2008 6:24 PM:

" PlasticPinkFlamingo have you ever lived in a country with socialized medicine and used the system? I have in England and I never had any trouble getting anything I needed for me or any of my family....so perhaps you should use a socialized system before you tell us all what it is like or what is wrong with it. "

a teacher wrote on Oct 14, 2008 7:36 PM:

" PPF: I don't know if Countries with universal care ration care. I haven't heard that. However, what makes you think that doesn't happen here? If you switch policies and have a preexisting condition, you won't get covered. If you don't have money, or a job with benefits, you don't get covered. That's rationing. "

dONtwORRy wrote on Oct 14, 2008 7:49 PM:

" NAPA REGISTER IS JUST AS CROCKED AS THIS GOVERNMENT!
BUT THEN AGAIN YOU REALLY DO HAVE TO KNOW WHO OWNS THIS REGISTER.
&& WHOS FRIENDS WITH THE PEOPLE WHO OWN IT......... THINK ABOUT IT!
SMALL PEOPLE DONT GET THEIR WORDS OUT CUZ OF PEOPLE LIKE THEM! THAT ARE HIGHER! PLEASE......... ONE OF THESE DAYS I PROMISE THIS WORLD I'M GOING TO MAKE SURE TOMAKE IT FAR IN THIS GOVERNMENT.......... SEE HOW THINGS ARE BEING RUNNED! CUZ FROM WHERE IM SITTING AND THE THINGS I'VE SEEN AND WATCHED ON IS LEARNING ON MY OWN FROM RESERACHING THINGS. THIS GOVERNMETNS CROCKED! && ITS NOT FAR! "

justnana wrote on Oct 14, 2008 8:34 PM:

" I remember being lazy during a few elections in mid life while I worked full time raising 3 kids and was always a room mom and Girl Scout leader and Youth Football Cheer coach and swim club parent, etc....I used to wait for the Register to put out it's recommendations and then vote the opposite. Kids are grown and now I pay attention again. Experience trumps Internship. "

halfspin wrote on Oct 14, 2008 9:28 PM:

" You claim that Mr. McCain's proposed policies are more "fiscally responsible" and "fiscally sound" than his opponent's. I don't think those words mean what you think they mean. Fiscal soundness is measured by the size of budget deficits and accumulated debt. Under the Bush administration (which you endorsed twice) the federal budget surplus turned into a gaping deficit and the debt burden almost doubled, and yet McCain plans to follow exactly the same fiscal policies that created that deficit under Bush: large tax cuts on upper income tax brackets and unearned income, along with massive "emergency" defense spending on the war in Iraq. "

navy7army0 wrote on Oct 14, 2008 9:35 PM:

" Your editorial is right on the mark. McCain has demonstrated his leadership ability long before he became a US Senator. As for his academic credentials, his degree is a BS in General Engineering at USNA and he graduated in the top 3/4ths of his class. The lower 4th never made it. Eisenhower was next to last to graduate in his class at USMA.
The current economic crisis stems from 2 major long term effects. In the 1990's, both Democrat and Republican congressmen lowered the FDIC requirements for loan qualifications. The "goal" was and still is "Every American can own their own homes!” Nice, but, not everyone can afford it. So, we now have a glut of foreclosed mortgages. The other major economic problem is that US businesses are the 2nd most taxed in the world. US products can no longer compete with foreign companies. Look at Ford and GM, both are losing money and reducing payrolls. Honda and Toyota are displacing American workers.
We need an experienced leader to get the country on the right track. By the way, Churchill, De Gaulle and Adenauher (sp) were all much older than McCain when they were chosen to lead their countries which were beaten to the ground in 1945!
We know very little about Obama except that his connections with Rev. Wright, Bill Ayers and ACORN are suspicious. BO is a smooth orator, I’ll give him that. "

halfspin wrote on Oct 14, 2008 9:44 PM:

" Your reference to Senator McCain's stance on Bosnia as part of your endorsement rationale left me rather flabbergasted: McCain was opposed to intervention in Bosnia! An article from the May 5, 1993 New York Times, "CONFLICT IN THE BALKANS; Senator Who Saw War Up Close Doesn't Want to See Another," features some remarks McCain made to the Senate that he seems to have forgotten in his enthusiasm for invading Iraq: "We need to be honest about one central fact: We have no way to predict the size, length and casualties of a peacemaking effort... If we find ourselves involved in a conflict in which American casualties mount, in which there is no end in sight, in which we take sides in a foreign civil war, in which American fighting men and women have great difficulty distinguishing between friend and foe, then I suggest that American support for military involvement would rapidly evaporate." "

bellausa wrote on Oct 14, 2008 10:05 PM:

" Thank you Napa Register for one of the finest articles I have read in favor of John McCain for President. I couldn't have said it better!! "

Hear Ye wrote on Oct 14, 2008 10:39 PM:

" Navy7armyzero-


You are vey wrong about his academic credentials. He finished nearly last in his class. Very poor, in fact. "

patriotmissile wrote on Oct 14, 2008 10:51 PM:

" Whoa! For the party of inclusion it would appear that you Dems only want to include those who think as you do! I hear you talk about tolerance, but you can't seem to walk the walk. I am shocked that the Register had the gumption to buck the Norcal trend and tell it like it is! McCain is the ONLY candidate who has the experience, and the record of cooperation with the folks across the aisle (Teddy Kennedy, Russ Feingold, etc that can cut through the gridlock this no-good congress has been in for two years or more now and get something done that will get this ship of state back on course. It's not about being a Demo or a Repub--it's about being an American! "

a teacher wrote on Oct 14, 2008 11:06 PM:

" "t's not about being a Demo or a Repub--it's about being an American! "

Does this mean you're not an American if you are an Obama supporter? "

ADark1 wrote on Oct 15, 2008 1:35 AM:

" Interesting that McCain has made claims of liberating muslim women from oppression, but yet can't clean up the mess in his own state with the FLDS and the LDS.

REALLY interesting reports have now come out Palins house was built by the SAME guys who did the stadium bout a mile from her house NOR is she even acknowledging Alaska's African American population!

Nice touch she refuses to accept she was found of committing ethics violations but still claims she wasn't found violating ethics rules in her state even when closly questioned about troopergate.

Denial isn't a river in Egypt!

Things that make you go hmmm "

rogers wrote on Oct 15, 2008 1:53 AM:

" PPF - your country asks you to abide by the laws of our nation - you do. Your country asks you to pay your share of taxes - you do. Your country asks you to take up arms and go to war to serve in the "common defence" - you do that too.

But when it comes to your single most important resource, your health, you're on your own. Over 50% of bankruptcies in the US today are health related. How can you not see the unfairness in that? This is simply not an issue in most of the industrialized modern world.

It is neither intelligent nor productive to deny your citizens access to health care. This is one's most precious personal right. Without good health, all other liberties are moot.

How do you promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty without a healthy population. "Welfare" is health, happiness, or prosperity as a part of well-being.

You demand clean water and safe food. You insist on safe construction for our homes, buildings and bridges. You expect autos and aircraft to be inspected and safe from malfunction. Why? Because you don't want to sustain unnecessary injury, loss of limb or life that would hobble your family's prosperity, welfare and happiness.

I absolutely see this as a constitutional right and a fair trade for those other obligations my country demands of me. I'm willing to pay for it but not to the scoundrels of your "free market". I've paid very well for my health care over the years, but I had the ability and job to do so. Today our medical system, like much in our country, is broken and dysfunctional. It must be changed to serve the people, not your profit. "

XMAN wrote on Oct 15, 2008 7:45 AM:

" According to ACORN, Obama has already won the election, but a few of us hardheads may want to see for ourselves on November 4. Excellent article and editorial NVR. "

misfit wrote on Oct 15, 2008 8:27 AM:

" Hear Ye, I think that Navy7 guy meant, that after the bottom quarter dropped off, he was in the reaminaing group...where he just happened to be in the bottom 5. You see how these guys can spin so fast that they are dizzy. "

sandra wrote on Oct 15, 2008 9:22 AM:

" Regarding: "msdemo wrote on Oct 14, 2008 10:34 AM:" specifically this: "I feel it will be easier for our goverment to come reach agreement with these people. " You do not understand who exactly is fighting a holy war. It is not us. Google the movie "Fitna". The only part of the Muslim world not going along with the sentiments in this movie is REFORM ISLAM. They are a very, very, small part of this religion, and have to watch their backs wherever they go....You want us to come to agreement with a force that wants us dead, or muslim. Sorry, I happen to strongly disagree with that. "

freeport56 wrote on Oct 15, 2008 9:48 AM:

" No matter your political slant...

health care is not a right, it is something you have to pay for. If you let the Government run, like so many of you want, it will be diasterous.

If they run like they run the economy and it's bailout, it will be diasterous.

Our Government is not bright enough to manage medicine! "

lola wrote on Oct 15, 2008 9:48 AM:

" It's frightening to think of Palin as president negotiating with China and Putin. It's bad enough she will set back women's right's for years!

McCain will clearly be more of the same Bush policies while the Obama/Biden team bring intelligence, change and extensive foreign policy experience. Other countries know that as well so our standing in the world will finally come back to a level before Bush destroyed us.

McCain and Palin have repeatedly shown they will continue the typical bad mouthing of the Washington establishment vs making the changes needed! "

finewine wrote on Oct 15, 2008 9:55 AM:

" Nice reporting NVR! The race isn't over until the LAST vote is counted!
Vote McCain!! "

rage against wrote on Oct 15, 2008 11:31 AM:

" Who cares what this stupid paper thinks! "

Raven wrote on Oct 15, 2008 11:37 AM:

" seems to working pretty good in other countries freeport, and the arguments against are almost identical to the arguments against Medicare in the 60s..

and I do think we have a right to access to basic health care....comes under the promote the general welfare part of the preamble of the constitution "

freeport56 wrote on Oct 15, 2008 1:53 PM:

" It is so funny to me to hear "basic health is a right". Why? What ever gave you the idea it is right. A drivers license is not a right, it is a privilege that is lost when it is abused.

It does not work as well as you think. If you think it is great move to Canada, GB, or France where the Socialist form of Government will take care of you, at a price. People in those countries die while waiting for treatment, and wait months just to be seen by a doctor.

You are treated like cattle and support a massive government body that may or may not make medical decisions in your favor. When you make it a right the 12 to 22 million illegal immigrants in our country will benefit at my tax paying expense! I do not wish to pay for them as they are already getting free health care. Wonder into any emergency room in California.

Reform the insurance system, heavily prosecute fraud, but keep the Government out of health care! "

Raven wrote on Oct 15, 2008 4:11 PM:

" comparing the driver license and health is apples and oranges, freeport and you know as well as I do there is no connection between the two....

as far as how well it works I can only draw upon my wife's experiences with the national health care system in Great Britain....is it perfect no, but it does provide basic health care for everyone person...something we do not...and btw...it too late...government is in the health business and has been for years... "

Sandra wrote on Oct 15, 2008 7:03 PM:

" "It's bad enough she will set back women's right's for years!"


I am almost afraid to ask, but just have to...mainly to see how far you will reach to answer it......How will an independent, strong willed working mom set back womens rights for years? "

Not Enough Time wrote on Oct 15, 2008 11:50 PM:

" Palin seems average, but she's being judged horribly. Hillary was as well. People are concerned with racism. What about misogyny?
McCain should be a little more condemning of the war. That really has put us in debt. Realistically, no president is going to be able to "pull out" very quickly. Obama has not been very honest about his past whatsoever and it's troubling, but it probably won't mean much.

The comments made about socialized medicine in the U.K. are not accurate. I have to admit, it's nice to be able to get antibiotics without arranging to spend hundreds of dollars every month. You have the option to go private. What is not so nice is when immigrants who have not yet paid into the system, are having children using the NHS, and then go back to Bulgaria or Poland, to whatever town lost its workers.

When people here say they are worried that immigrants to the U.S. will use "our tax dollars," well, that's already happened. Look at the community based organizations, especially here in Napa. READ OUR JOB ADS FOR PERSONS EARNING LESS <100K. LOOK AT THE REQS. Go park on Jefferson Street and Lincoln and tell me there is equality in the diversity promoted in the U.S. A resident of Napa with a visa has more chance of getting health care than someone born here. (I was not.)

Does trickle down economics work?

Does re-named socialism work?
Both of these candidates are regrettable nominees.

People argue about separation of church and state, and seem to understand very little about the actual views of our founding fathers.

Speaking of founding fathers, why are we stuck in this political party system anyway? "

misfit wrote on Oct 16, 2008 7:55 AM:

" Freeport...Health care is a God given right!!! You can't be Pro-life and not Pro-healthcare. The two go hand in hand unless you are a hypocritical, self-serving, right wing conservative who has no respect for life outside of their own. The next thing you will want is for everyone to pay for the air they breathe.
You are so naive if you think health care isn't already rationed out in this country.
One thing I found while working in health care...Someone will hobble around on their bad knee for years, then want their surgery tomorrow.
Well, now they hobble around on their bad knee because they can't afford the co-pay...oh, unless it's someone like you who paid their "Own" way all their life. "

woman voter wrote on Oct 16, 2008 3:54 PM:

" Sandra said "I am almost afraid to ask, but just have to...mainly to see how far you will reach to answer it......How will an independent, strong willed working mom set back womens rights for years? "

The greatest way she will and does set women's rights back is because she is a "token" woman on the ballot. McCain doesn't consider her an equal. He didn't even discuss policy decisions with her like withdrawing from Michigan. She had to learn that from reporters...McCain didn't even tell her.

Secondly she clearly has a knowledge deficit on so many subjects it is ridiculous. She never answers a question with any facts or knowledge...she has little sound bites and can't discuss any subject beyond those.

It is actually insulting to the women of this country that she was chosen. McCain obviously didn't care about qualifications...he just thought any skirt would do. And McCain spent months talking about Obama's experience and then turned around and choose a vice-presidential canidate with way less experience then Obama.....that is hypocritical. "

MissNapaValley wrote on Oct 16, 2008 6:49 PM:

" Governor Palin is to be admired as an accomplished leader, legislator, administrator, and reformer. She is an intelligent woman and has much more experience than Obama.

Under her leadership, Alaska has invested $5 billion in state savings, overhauled education funding, and implemented the Senior Benefits Program that provides support for low income older Alaskans.

She created Alaska's Petroleum Systems Integrity Office.

She created the Climate Change Subcabinet for AK.

She developed a competitive process to
construct a gas pipeline.

She chaired the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission.

She chaired the National Governor's Association Natural Resource Committee.

She served 2 terms on the City Council and 2 terms as mayor/manager of Wasilla.

She chaired the Alaska Conservation Commission and presided over the Alaska Conference of Mayors.

In the private sector, Governor Palin has been a small business owner and is knowledgeable about the economics involved in running a business unlike Obama, the "community organizer." "

NVGal wrote on Oct 16, 2008 7:11 PM:

" Woman voter, I am usually the only woman sitting in on board meetings and executive meetings in my company. I don’t always know about decisions directly. I worked hard to get to where I am, but according to how you view Palin, you would view me as a “token” woman as well. I can appreciate the fact that you do not agree with Palin’s views, however, calling her a “token” woman hurts us all.

I am voting for McCain, I believe in equal rights for women, not special rights for women. I too believe in pro choice, but Roe v. Wade has not been overturned and I currently feel that strategic foreign policy at this time in our country’s history cannot be overlooked for a right we all ready have. "

Joanne wrote on Oct 16, 2008 11:06 PM:

" NVGal, You wouldn't be referring to those "special rights for women" that Palin championed, such as the right to pay for your own forensic rape kit, would you? I don't want those kinds of "special rights," as a woman either. Or the "special right" to be objectified by your own ticket in a "Vote for the MILF" promotion? (You can google MILF if you need the definition. It's charming!) Naw? Me neither! And, of course, if you are just "sitting in" on board and executive meetings for your company, then it may be perfectly reasonable that you "don’t always know about decisions directly." However, if you are the only woman board member and/or the only woman executive at your company, I'd like to suggest to you that there may a message in there somewhere that you are missing. That would be especially likely if your are the only woman board member or executive at your company AND you are also most apt to be the only board member or executive at your company that doesn't "always know about decisions directly."

Just a little food for thought... "

not enough time wrote on Oct 16, 2008 11:10 PM:

" Here here NV Gal!



What about the healthcare propositions though? "

Raven wrote on Oct 16, 2008 11:31 PM:

" so exactly how many people here have ever been a community organizer and know how much work is involved and the skills needed to do the job successfully.. "

rage against wrote on Oct 17, 2008 11:44 AM:

" Not enough time,
Women have paid the greatest price for mankind's oppressive tendencies. If anyone doesn't beleive that, stop reading this right now and go about your blind existence.
This doesn't let Sarah Palin off the hook for playing the ignorant part of a right wing tool, but it explains why everyone is so quick to turn on a woman, even when she is a gun-toting, over-confident, "pitbull". Remember, black men could vote before women.
We don't change our society and our system by electing more of the same, no matter what race or gender they are.

We also need to think about looking outside of the parties to find our leaders.
I'm voting Obama, not because Sarah Palin and John McCain are the evolution of Bush/Cheney, but because Obama represents the pendulum swinging back towards the middle.

When it gets there we should all take a good look at our government and our civilization and see if we are really doing what is best for our fellow brothers, sisters, sons and daughters, earth and sky. "

PlasticPinkFlamingo wrote on Oct 17, 2008 12:00 PM:

" misfit - health care is a right? Please point out in the Constitution or the Bible where it is a 'right'.

raven - comparing health care and drivers licenses is not so far off when you have bureaucrats deciding your health care options. And you will have no appeal.

Also raven, I'm from Chicago, was involved in Chicago politics, and I know what community organizers do. They do almost nothing except get people stirred up, then they leave to go pick up their paycheck. Their skills come from the Saul Alinsky school of rabble rousing. We considered community organizers to be parasites on the city. But since you know so much about community organizers, point out some of the major accomplishments they did in Chicago? I'll save you the homework. They did nothing of any real merit. "

Raven wrote on Oct 17, 2008 1:41 PM:

" PPF....I have worked with many who are the antithesis of what you characterize...but I don't think you really care...you have staked out your position....so be it....but to paint all community organizers with the same brush, if I read you right, you don't feel any community organizer anywhere, anytime is worth a tinker's darn...


btw, what rights am I guaranteed by the Bible....esp if I were not christian? "

PlasticPinkFlamingo wrote on Oct 17, 2008 5:04 PM:

" The reference was to misfit who said "Health care is a God given right!" That's why I added the Bible to my question. Ask misfit about that, not me. I was asking for verification of where it says health care is a God-given right.

There are probably community organizers who tried to do a good job, but few and far between. Most are just on for the ride. So yes I paint the vast majority with the brush because they deserve it. "

misfit wrote on Oct 17, 2008 5:59 PM:

" PPF....oooh, so I used the wrong words. Are you for real? Meaning...AYFFR?
I come strictly from a place that believes that we Americans live in a "Civilized" society and that healthcare should be a guarantee for all and not just for those who can afford it. Do you think that poor people or uninsured people should just not be treatd, allowed to die...or that poor children and babies should just be cast off to die without care?
That's what it sounds like. Do you realize that even with insurance that a major illness will bankrupt a middle class family? Who are you that you can make that judgment? I don't like you very much. "

NVGal wrote on Oct 17, 2008 7:55 PM:

" Joanne, thanks for the kind supportive words, I so need them from women these days as I make my way up the corporate ladder…

Now, what happened to that knife… "

Madison Jay Hamilton wrote on Oct 17, 2008 8:55 PM:

" I'll say it! Health care is a right! It says so in the Constitution! In the Preamble, it says that "We the People" can do whatever we want for each other "to promote the general welfare" of the country. Deal with it. "

Joanne wrote on Oct 17, 2008 9:26 PM:

" Oh, for heaven's sake, NVGal! You were the one who completely set yourself up for that. (As the old saying goes: if you can’t take the heat, stay out of the kitchen.)

Let’s start with this: NVGal, thanks for the kind supportive words [on the issue of reproductive rights. My daughter and other women] so need them from women these days as [they confront a future in which Roe v. Wade could be one Supreme Court Justice away from near certain reversal].

I support the advancement of women in the workplace and everywhere else. And I wish you all the best in your career. However, I don't support the advancement of ideas that suggest women have equal rights in this country. They do not. If they did, you wouldn't need the support you have implied I should be providing to you because I am a woman to make your way up the corporate ladder.

I also do not support the idea that Sarah Palin is an advocate of women's rights in many of the ways that matter most. She is not. I offered two examples in my earlier post and could list several more. And it is naïve, in my view, to deny that she is being cynically exploited by the McCain campaign, in many of the ways that even those more modestly supportive of women’s rights than die-hard feminists find offensive. "

misfit wrote on Oct 17, 2008 9:49 PM:

" As I've stated before, Sarah Palin will not even be on McCains Christmas card list this year once he's done with her. He is using her and she allowed it. It's pretty simple. Why would a self respecting woman allow this to happen to herself? I think she should have politely turned down her selection if not for any other reason than that their were other women out there, more qualified and more deserving than she. If she really cared to champion the cause of women in this process. She should have deferred to any one of them as a more realistic choice and a more responsible choice for the future of this country. But, no, her ego and her opportunism couldn't let her put her country first. "

XMAN wrote on Oct 17, 2008 11:52 PM:

" SECRET SERVICE AGENTS REVEALED TODAY THERE WERE NO THREATS AGAINST OBAMA AT PALIN SPEECH AS HE CLAIMED THERE WERE WHEN HE SAID SHE SHOULD "REPUDIATE." (AT THE LAST PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE) EITHER OBAMA IMAGINED THE THREATS OR HE IS OUT-AND-OUT LYING ... AGAIN. "

XMAN wrote on Oct 17, 2008 11:58 PM:

" scared people will vote for barack obama.

informed people will vote for john mccain.

Nov. 4 will tell us if Americans are scared or informed. I'm hoping the latter. "

Joanne wrote on Oct 18, 2008 1:15 AM:

" XMAN: I guess that video of the Palin-led rally where you can clearly hear shouts of "terrorist" and "kill him" were fabricated as a part of some left-wing conspiracy.

Yeah, right.

I heard those outbursts from that crowd with my own two ears. So did an extraordinary number of other people who watched that video clip. But I'm sure that you're the one who's got it right here. Must be a case of mass-hallucination. "

Raven wrote on Oct 18, 2008 1:53 AM:

" and your source Xman?...where and when was this said? "

Rocco wrote on Oct 18, 2008 7:48 AM:

" Dear MJH, I remember the recent past when you chastised me for bringing up the boogeyman of “socialism” and now its front page headlines isn’t it. BO kind of slipped up and let the cat out of the bag and now you and his other minions are out doing damage control. Who cares that it’s never worked anywhere else? Who cares that even the Pilgrims, after losing half their numbers, only took two winters to realize that socialism was the path to ruin. Universal Retirement is already bankrupt…SS. Medical and Medicaid are in the toilet. Universal Banking is the newest scam doomed to fail…and you want to Universalize everything else too? Every tax dollar altruistically distributed to one person was taken through coercion and intimidation from somebody else. I’ll morally promote the general welfare through charity and legitimate tax-deductions while you and your ilk will try to guarantee mediocrity through thievery. Tyranny may fit your agenda…but it doesn’t fit mine. "

DWolter wrote on Oct 18, 2008 8:55 AM:

" I'm disappointed in this endorsement, not because I'm an Obama supporter but because your editorial board was overruled by your publisher, who had to be following the orders of the Lee Co. which owns The Register. Reliable sources have confirmed this. I've always been a supporter of local businesses and have subscribed to The Register for over 50 years, during which its political endorsements seldom matched my choices. But when an outside corporation can overrule the considered judgment of the local editorial board and force them to publish this editorial, I can no longer have my subscription dollars so misused. Therefore I'm canceling my subscription to The Register and asking for a full refund of my remaining subscription. "

Reality Check wrote on Oct 18, 2008 10:04 AM:

" Amen to that. Thank you DW. You have clearly and succinctly demonstrated how the world is supposed to work. The NVR is a privately run entity that can endorse anyone their owners choose to. You can either choose to read it or not. You have chosen to take your dollars and look for a better product. Isn’t free choice great? Don’t market forces insure the highest standard of living for both you and me? Or maybe some think the government needs to take over the news outlets too. "

Madison Jay Hamilton wrote on Oct 18, 2008 4:56 PM:

" Neither the term nor the philosophy called socialism existed in 1620, the year the Pilgrims landed.

Social Security is fully funded through 2047. It's not in any danger at all.

The computer was invented by government employees with tax dollars. Socialism?

The canals bringing water to the Central Valley's farmers was built and paid for with tax dollars. Socialism?

The roads I drive on and the fire protection I enjoy were paid for with tax dollars. Socialism?

Senator McCain supports the taxpayer bailout of the banking industry. Socialism?

I'd continue my list, but for it to be complete, I'd be typing all day. "

glenroy wrote on Oct 18, 2008 6:15 PM:

" Nvgal….way tooooo go….you’d be on our Board of Directors in a heartbeat… if we hadn’t sold to TransAmerica that is…these posts are a little like trying to reason with toddlers….patience and more patience…..then give em what they deserve.

As for Obama being Muslim…..his own words while being interviewed by silly little steppie Clinton‘s lap dog…opening his response with ”my Muslim faith’….another Obama comment take from his book Audacity of Hope…which I’ve read …'I will stand with the Muslims should the political winds shift in an ugly direction.' I don’t think, for many reasons, Obama can even get security clearances…

It should surprise few who have paid any attention the past couple decades to those who now control the Democrat Party, that they would nominate someone who as Patrick Moynihan said….’cannot distinguish our countries enemies from our friends‘….though he was referring to Carter when he abandoned the Shah.

Another seemingly forgotten issue about Obama is the fact that he has received roughly half his near billion dollars in donations from foreign sources….the bulk coming from the Middle East, gee imagine that…. At least out armed forces support McCain near 3 to 1...the last government infrastructure not ruined by Democrats….though not because of a lack of effort. "

DWolter wrote on Oct 18, 2008 7:35 PM:

" Glenroy, your post continues to circulate discredited emails that Snopes, the urban legends website, has conclusively shown have no credence.

Your comment about his financial sources is shown to be fallacious at this page on Snopes. http://www.snopes.com/politics/obama/donations.asp

As for the allegations that he's Muslim, Snopes deals with these falsehoods on this page: http://fightthesmears.com/articles/25/FinanceTruth

It's really sad that adults this late in a lengthy presidential campaign can continue to repeat absolute falsehoods. "

Rocco wrote on Oct 18, 2008 7:42 PM:

" Dear MJH, Good Points.
Socialism is what socialism does. The Mayflower Compact required that "all profits and benefits that are got by trade, working, fishing or any other means" were placed in the common stock of the colony. Further, it required that "all such persons as are of this colony are to have their meat, drink, apparel and all provisions out of this common stock." People were required to put into the common stock everything they could, and take out only what they needed. Surprise, surprise, half the group died through disease and starvation. The solution was simple. In 1623, Governor Bradford "gave each household a parcel of land and told them they could keep what they produced, or trade it away as they saw fit." The socialistic experiment that had failed them was abandoned and replaced with capitalism. That turned the colonists away from failure and forward into success and growth.
Article 1, Section 8 of our Constitution does allow for the collection of taxes for very specific reasons. Canals and roads are within these bounds.
Line 8 clearly allows for the promotion of the Sciences…IBM was essentially thrust into existence because of the race to the moon. Our government did not create personal computers, but indirectly did through the granting of contracts using tax money.
Now, back to the meat of the issue… In a free society that values personal liberties and initiative, how can you justify taking my money and giving it to others? There is no constitutional mandate that says I’m responsible for my neighbors mortgage, healthcare, and retirement.
McCain was wrong to support the bailout…If he had stood for what was right; he would be 10 points ahead right now. "

Raven wrote on Oct 19, 2008 12:44 AM:

" it must be an interesting world you live in Rocco......the disregard for historical fact always amazes me, but then why let the facts get in the way of a point you want to try and make.

the death in the really years of the colony had nothing to do with things being held in common....and you know it....any people, as unprepared for a new england winter as the they were would have suffered the same fate no matter what they held in common....if you want to cite them as an example at least get you facts right. And give credit where it is do, to the native Americans who took pity on them.

hate to disappoint you about IBM as well...they were a going concern well before the space race....

and one could argue that no one is taking anything from you, that through your representatives, the country as a whole has decided these taxes are appropriate....if you don't like it there are three options available....vote in repsentatives who will change it, refuse to pay them at all and suffer the consequences...or leave.... "

Raven wrote on Oct 19, 2008 9:06 AM:

" so the register endorses McCain and this morning Colin Powell endorses Obama..in the grand scheme of things I think Powell's will have more impact "

14obama wrote on Oct 19, 2008 11:20 AM:

" McCain's just another greedy Republican ! They look down on the folks without educations,but,at the same time make it next to impossible to get one. I see him as some of the 'scum of the earth' and not the socially responsible person claimed. If you are on the bottom of the ladder,you are nothing to these kind. They expect us to lie and cheat,like them,to get a step up on the ladder ? Never in my lifetime will I stoop to their level ! McCain ! You're a big joke ! So is your wife ! "

NVGal wrote on Oct 19, 2008 2:22 PM:

" Joanne – I completely agree with you on everything that you said! She is being exploited, and I do not agree with her views with regards to women. But what I object to is the term “token woman” to describe her, or any other woman for that matter. I am not saying that women cannot attack her on the issues, but do we have to lower ourselves to using phrases that demean? If a man said some of those things that we as women are using to describe Palin, about any other woman both you and I would call him out so fast it would make his head spin.
When we vote we have to vote for the things that are the most important to us, we won’t get everything that we want in one candidate. Equal rights to me are something that I believe in, but I also believe that I fight for these every day. I can make a difference, it is something that I feel is in my control. I don’t feel that strategically dealing with countries like Russia, Iran, Pakistan are within my control at all. Foreign policy is my #1 issue and has been for a long time.
By “special rights”, all I meant was giving woman more, simply because they are woman. In the workplace they will be targets, that is all I really meant. Let’s be honest, companies shy away from hiring woman with young children, so let’s not give them more reason not to hire them, and not to keep them once they are in.

I am happy to fight with you any day to keep Roe v. Wade in tact. "

Madison Jay Hamilton wrote on Oct 19, 2008 7:21 PM:

" Rocco writes, "IBM was essentially thrust into existence because of the race to the moon." Really? It was doing business in the 1920s. Give me a break.

GOP policies have led to a huge redistribution of wealth, from poor and middle class Americans to the wealthiest 1/10 of one-percent of Americans. Since the Reagan Revolution, class warfare has been practiced by the wealthy against the rest of us.

I hope that more Americans vote their own economic interests in 2008. Doing so will result in victories for the Democratic Party's candidates in every state. "

Rocco wrote on Oct 19, 2008 8:22 PM:

" Dear Raven Hood, Do you actually read what your write before you post? Do you feel better now?

If the Mayflower Compact wasn’t broke, why did they need to fix it so drastically and so soon? I never said IBM wasn’t a concern before the early 60s, I merely asserted that the NASA contracts helped to propel them from the age of ticker tape to chips. I was trying to politely address MJH’s points with primary source quotations and actual references to the Constitution. But unlike most of your rant, I do like your suggestion for voting in representatives that are less likely to take my money and give it the growing group of those dependent on unearned entitlements. Once we reach the point where over 50% of “voters” are not paying into the system but merely receiving “tax credit” checks…it’s all coming down. Be careful of what you bray for, you might just get it. "

Raven wrote on Oct 19, 2008 10:33 PM:

" and as i said before, you were wrong, rocco...they were a going concern well before the space race..

and rocco, do you really think you will find voters to bring in a group like that....heck, you guys cant even find enuff voters to vote for someone other than Mike Thompson "

AO1982 wrote on Oct 19, 2008 10:44 PM:

" This article makes me even gladder that I dont give my money to the NVR. I wouldnt want it to go towards another Bush-like presidency. Wasn't Bush just at proven as McCain? Wasnt Bush also promising a better future just like McCain? Wasnt Bush declared a "true american" because he was in the serevices just like McCain? So NVR is all for another Bush-like era...well then prepare to lose this precious paper because the USA will go down even deeper than how Bush left it.
My vote is for change, not the same crap we have been dealing with for 8 years. We can find a man hiding in a hole, but we cant find a man humping through the mountains. Im glad the bush-era is over, and the time for CHANGE is coming...if not then we're doomed. "

ADark1 wrote on Oct 21, 2008 12:34 PM:

" so I guess all the time I spent in the trenches, I was merely a rabble rouser?

HAH! So getting LIHEAP and other programs so those who slept UNDER the gold coast didn't freeze in the winter and starve year round were doing nothing but rabbling rousing?

PPF? I'm disappointed, really disappointed. You know better then that much better.

I find it interesting you have turned...and turned you have. Saul Alinsky has very little to do with C.O.'s and you know that.

I'm just stunned ... I guess I'll see you in the next video of birds gone bad!~:( "

Comment Guidelines
The goal of the story comments section at NapaValleyRegister.com is to have an open, thought-provoking, civil community forum for all issues.
What gets your comment posted?
• Staying on topic
• Keeping your comment to 300 words or less
• Avoiding name-calling
• Addressing your comments to the message rather than the messenger
What gets your comment deleted?
• Personal attacks
• Derogatory remarks
• Name-calling of any sort
• Going off-topic
• Hate speech
• Racially-insensitive comments
• Implying guilt of a subject in a crime story before there is a court verdict
• Posting e-mail addresses
• Posting comments of a commercial nature
• POSTING WITH ALL CAPITAL LETTERS
• Linking multiple comments together with "to be continued..." to get around the 300 word limit.
The fine print
- Comments are either approved or denied. We do not edit comments.
- You are welcome to modify and resubmit a denied comment.
- Comments may take several hours to be posted.
- Comments posted are those of the writer, and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of NapaValleyRegister.com, its employees or its parent company.
- Do you have information on a story? Please go to our virtual newsroom to send us a news tip.
- If you feel a posted comment has violated our guidelines, please contact online@napanews.com or add a comment indicating you have an issue and our moderators will review the comment in question.
Search:
Web Search Powered
By Yahoo! Search
Napa Valley Register on Facebook
Back to top
Submit news, announcements: Virtual Newsroom
Contact: News | Advertising | Subscriber Services | Work for us | Buy photos
More local news: American Canyon Eagle | St. Helena Star | Weekly Calistogan
Local tourism: Inside Napa Valley || Parade Magazine
Copyright © 2009 Napa Valley Publishing, a member of Lee Enterprises, Inc.
Terms of Use | Privacy Policy