Macintyre wrote on Apr 29, 2007 3:04 AM: Both of them are wasting their time as far as I am concerned. Neither of them have ever accomplished anything politically but show up on the floor of the senate when told to and vote as instructed. Speeches are written for them by the party and a lot of the time they don't know or care if what they are saying is a good thing or not. They are so inexperienced politically they haven't had a chance to do anything showing presidential qualities. Give Obama a few terms in office to chair an important committee and then we will see. I have been a registered Democrat my entire adult life. We ain't got no Kennedy here.

Greg in Oceanside wrote on Apr 29, 2007 3:57 AM:Hillary in the White House? Didn't we have enough 'Clinton shenanigans' during the 90's? It would be like a recurring nightmare if she were elected. She speaks from both sides of her mouth. And Obama, he’s a smooth talker and orator, but he’s still wet behind the ears. He just made the age to be president and it would be akin to a 16 year old who just got his license and hand him the keys to a new Ferrari. Then we have Dennis Kucinich who wants to abolish the Patriot Act. I’m sorry, but we need to allow our law enforcement the tools to protect us from the elements of the world who aim to do us harm. It’s too bad the Birkenstock-wearing, bleeding-heart liberals feel their rights are being infringed upon, but I want safety and security. And since I’m not doing anything to bring attention to myself it really doesn’t matter, nor should it to anyone else who’s guilt free. The rest of the Democratic candidates are a lot of hot air, and will promise the world to everyone, something Democrats are good at. They like to create big government and spend. So, we’re in for a wild ride folks.

Proud Democrat wrote on Apr 29, 2007 5:09 AM:Edwards, Hillary, Obama, Richardson--are ready at this moment to be President. The Democrats are energized and have the message. I am so proud of my party and for the first time in years, I am optimistic about the future of my country!

Markus wrote on Apr 29, 2007 5:26 AM:Great Article. With Obama we will hear truth and we will get an honest leadership.With Clinton, we will get the plastic rhetoric. It's about time the Obamas of the world showed up.

Wrong wrote on Apr 29, 2007 8:00 AM:Bad choices for democrats in 08. They want to end the war what, so we can then get attacked once again on our own soil? Also, to abolish part or all of the patriot act and that is what we will get my friends. I can't wait until 2010 when everyone is complaining about the dems once again if they are put into office in 08. There are no winners here.

Patriots Act? wrote on Apr 29, 2007 8:02 AM:By Greg's standards and his willingness to swap American Constitutional Rights for so called Security, he might have been happier in Yugoslavia or Czechoslovakia or Franco's Spain, than in the USA. Security isnt all its cracked up to be. Pigs and Steers are secure on the farm--until they are slaughtered. I don’t know why Greg is feeling so secure anyway. With the Patriot Act and the Homeland Security agency, we don’t protect our borders or our ports and our government is setting up central files on each of us with all our identification, records of what we read, what medicines we purchase and who we email and telephone. I am not engaged in any nefarious activities or illegal pursuits either, but I do worry about an invasive, Big Brother government that is engaged in a variety of nefarious pursuits.

Greg in Oceanside wrote on Apr 29, 2007 8:56 AM:To "Patriot Act"; ...hey, it's a big government conspiracy and they’re coming after you! They have big files about everything you’ve ever done including leaving your toenail clippings in that hotel you stayed in last year, and that booger you flicked in the corner at work. Sheesh, give me a break, enough with the paranoia already! The (Bill) Clinton administration had 9 chances to take Osama Bin Laden out and he screwed that up. Democrats are more concerned with social welfare and big government programs than to keep our country safe. The biggest concern is how Democrats view the world and how the want to play “Robin Hood” taking from the “rich” and giving to the poor with their tax and spend policies. And of course, our national security, something Democrats aren’t good at or plan to make a priority.

Hey Patriot Act wrote on Apr 29, 2007 8:57 AM:If you believe the government should provide you healthcare, retirement, food stamps, etc,... your giving up your freedom and safety as well. Safety over financial fear, and freedom right into governmental slavery. That Benjamin Franklin quote goes both ways my friend.

to greggie wrote on Apr 29, 2007 9:08 AM:So whats your point? You're proud of the spoiled brat, draft dodger, oil man from Texas with an IQ of 92? shenanigans? Read a paper or watched the news lately? Go drink some more koolaid and repeating to yourself-"Bush and Cheney are not lyers".

Adam wrote on Apr 29, 2007 9:10 AM:RE: "Hillary Clinton Appoints La Raza's Raul Yzaguirre To Co-Chair Campaign" >>> Hillary and La Raza will not go far for me. She is so worried about pandering to the Hispanic vote, that she does not realize that most Hispanic Americans are just like any other Americans, who feel that La Raza is a racist organization. I am a democrat and would rather vote for the Republican candidate now that Hillary has this racist, extremist La Raza advocate running her campaign.

AW4cryinoutloud wrote on Apr 29, 2007 9:26 AM:Geeeze! Where did the 'Koolaid' line come from? I've heard O'Reilly use it but never knew what the heck it meant. I could understand if you referred to a drink that intoxicates. But, anybody want to share what the bloody hell is going on with the much "overquoted" Koolaid line? Gads, I hope someone thinks of something more original. What's happened to the younger generation? Cmon' kids; find a new quote.Get with it!

AW4cryinoutloud wrote on Apr 29, 2007 9:30 AM:It just occurred to me that if you took all of Congress and had them make their speeches, all at the same time, into a hot air balloon...We could save quite a bit; environmentally speaking.

Fran wrote on Apr 29, 2007 10:30 AM:I attended the convention on Saturday. It was an exciting event with so many people there from all over California. The candidates all gave very good speeches, and were assessable to answer questions. It gives the people who vote a better chance to assess the candidates to make an informed decision.

Mike America wrote on Apr 29, 2007 10:34 AM:hey.......did Hillary use her southern drawl or did she speak spanglish?

KoolAid line defined wrote on Apr 29, 2007 10:37 AM:Remember ... Jim Jones cult leader who took many American citizens and formed Jonestown in Guyana. This was the 70's. As he started getting really crazy a congressman Leo Ryan went down there to check on things. He was shot dead on the runway by Jone's security. It was the end for Jones. So he lined his followers all up and gave them poison laced koolaid to drink. About 900 died - many children. That's where the expression don't drink the koolaid comes from.

John wrote on Apr 29, 2007 10:55 AM:I just watched the Obama video clip and I think he hit the nail on the head. Meanwhile I keep seeing Republicans pound nails into the casket that holds their party's remains.

JR wrote on Apr 29, 2007 11:17 AM:Greg 8:56 says (with a straight face?), "Democrats are more concerned with social welfare and big government programs than to keep our country safe." Pardon me, but aren't social welfare and a safe country really synonymous? Isn't the military a big government program that is supported by both parties? I'm sure my democratic ancestors buried in Arlington Cemetery thought so. Bottom line is this - the Republicans did big government like nobody's business. Seriously, they ran our country like a credit-card shopping spree at North County Fair. Would Darrell Issa run his car alarm company that way? I say nay nay. ... The republicans have had their shot at governing and failed. They have almost ruined the economy, run up HUGE debts, have ignored environmental threats, and worst of all. They lost the war in Iraq. Time for a return to social welfare and big government that has a balanced budget - vote democratic.

To AW4 wrote on Apr 29, 2007 12:00 PM:The koolaid line refers to Jim Jones at Jamestown. The people followed so blindly they drank the koolaid laced with cyanide and died, on command. Drinking the Koolaide, has since meant to buy the party line hook, line and sinker.

OceansideKos wrote on Apr 29, 2007 12:36 PM:to AWF; Billo (let me loofah you) got the term koolaid drinkers from the left. He's not very orignial, after all. It refers to the Jim Jones incident in 1978 where he convinced over 900 of his followers to drink poisoned Kool-Aid and die rather than realize what a crazy moon-bat he was. Many of us feel the same way about Bush/Cheney loyalists who refuse to open their eyes and see what it going on in this country, and this administration. WORST PRESIDENT EVER.

Ask wrote on Apr 29, 2007 12:53 PM:... If you are a democrat and cant motivate a democrat convention you would have to be worse than bush!!!............. Did you not expect every democrat speaking to bash bush and the current administration????...... Just some basic and simple thoughts....

Jay wrote on Apr 29, 2007 1:35 PM:"Building...policy around teacher's needs"? Why not STUDENT'S needs? A blatant attempt to cater to the union vote (and money). As a former Democrat (I'd like to return to the Party but after leaving 35 years ago they have still not enticed me.)I can't vote for any of their current candidates. I'll vote for a Gore/Biden ticket. I would support Edwards as a choice for Attorney General. This combination could win. The Democratic Party is going nowhere with Clinton and Obama in the lead. Democrats: Don't make me sit out an election. I CAN'T vote Republican and I WON'T vote for the "politics as usual" crowd.

Franklin wrote on Apr 29, 2007 1:42 PM:I've got to laugh at "Greg" and others with their remarks about "tax and spend". How does that compare with the Republican's "Borrow and spend"? How much do you think this ridiculous illegal occupation of a sovereign nation in the midst of a civil war cost? Plenty and they have made NO plans on paying for it. Patriot Act? That's way more dangerous to our democracy than any perceived threat from a few religious lunatics.

Smokey wrote on Apr 29, 2007 1:45 PM:Both democrats and republicans Stink, This country needs a makover bigtime.

AW4cryinoutloud wrote on Apr 29, 2007 3:17 PM:Thanks guys for the info on the Koolaid line. That's been bothering me for months.

Patte wrote on Apr 29, 2007 3:42 PM:Amen. Finally there will be some honesty back in the White House. Bush and friends have tarnished this country but it won't last forever. I can't believe people are still falling for the fear factor - they'll come and get us over here. Give me a break! Who was the President when we got hit on 9-11 and who was the mayor of New York? Republicans who have failed this country in the past and will do so in the future while their buddies get rich from the war with on their hands. Senator Obama you have my vote and I will be campaigning for you everyday.

Judy wrote on Apr 29, 2007 4:02 PM:To Jay, Teachers are the ones who are in the classroom everyday and we know our kids' needs! Most politicians don't. It is a breath of fresh air to hear a policy maker RESPECT our expertise. Listen to Obama's entire statement before you put teachers down. I am thankful that we have collective bargaining power. I, as a teacher, work very hard everyday to serve my students.

Hey Franklin wrote on Apr 29, 2007 4:47 PM:It took Greg's mommy and daddy years to teach him the "tax and spend liberals" mantra. Don't confuse him with the obvious facts.

To Patte wrote on Apr 29, 2007 5:31 PM:So, I'm guessing by your logic, that I should believe it was the Republicans' fault that Osama bin Laden and Al-Qaida attacked the Twin Towers? Since that attack took years of plannning, wouldn't part of that planning have happened during MonicaGate? Just wonderin'. Funny, but I don't hear the Islamic extremists chanting 'Down with New York.' or 'Down with Republicans.' I believe it's 'Down with U.S.A.' The last I heard, California was part of the Union. Maybe I'm confused, but wouldn't you think that Islamic radicals would harbor more hatred for Californication - the morality of Hollywood-fashioned liberalism that embraces sex, nudity, pornography, gay rights and lesbianism, alcohol consumption, music and dancing on the Nightclub scene? Islamic radicals execute women for less. Somehow I don't think the Muslim extremists care which party is in power. To them, non-Muslims are the Great Satan - all subhuman immoral infidels. Do you really think Democrats in the White House will help the terrorists to play nice and see that we are all children in Allah's big sandbox?

Patte wrote on Apr 29, 2007 6:11 PM:You may be right, but the guy in office now is the one responsible for the mess in Iraq, and Iraq is the main issue, not 911. maybe some fresh ideas are what we need.

Mike wrote on Apr 29, 2007 6:26 PM:Are we really ready to elect a muslim to the white house?

Monica wrote on Apr 29, 2007 8:10 PM:I'm in agreement with you Proud Democrat and other Dems who have posted positively. We have a lot to be optimistic about, unlike the Rethug posters here. We have a lot of options and if Gore throws his hat in the ring we will have even more. It's amazing how they have to resort to fear (Mikes' comment at 6:26pm) or the tax and spend comments (more fear) this coming from the Tax cuts for the rich and waste the money on a phony war crowd, the take money from the middle class and working poor to rebuild what we destroyed in Iraq, yet waste the money and rebuild nothing crowd.. They complain about taxing the rich to help the poor and middle class in America, but I'm not hearing any righteous indignation about American tax dollars that are to be spent on rebuilding Iraq, that are NOT going towards rebuilding Iraq. No outrage about millions that were donated from foreign donors that was wasted NOT helping victims of Hurricane Katrina. These reports recently came out. Yet, I hear nothing but crickets and the same old tired comments from the right. For some bizarre reason, these people haven't gotten it yet that being a rethug/con isn't anything to be proud of. I'm proud to be a Democrat/Liberal, bleeding heart and all. Those are labels I wear proudly. This was a good weekend in SD and I wish I could have been there in the flesh to see and hear some fine individuals. I even read that we had folks come in from the UK, from the Labour Party to help. Fantastic!! I'm energized and I plan on getting more involved.

Wayne wrote on Apr 29, 2007 8:29 PM:I think Barak Obama has the money to get elected. I like Obama because he takes us away from the fear factor. I am a realist because in this country you can’t win high office unless you have the cash to win. Barak Obama fits the bill. One of the biggest problems in my humble opinion is that, there are to many regulars hanging around to long. So when a “political regular” gets elected it’s the same old tired faces launched into the Whitehouse and Government all over again. Therefore, we need fresh faces and new people in our Whitehouse. There is too much secrecy in politics and America needs to break the mold. Barak Obama is not for sale.

Mike wrote on Apr 29, 2007 8:30 PM:I am not an Obama person but he is not a Muslim. He is a Christian.

Proud Lefty wrote on Apr 29, 2007 8:43 PM:To the poster who wrote To Patte at 5:31PM. I believe that there are terrorists due to American interference in their country's affairs. If Saudi Arabia or Iran decided to invade and bring Islam to us today, because they felt we needed to be free of our western ways, would we appreciate it, welcome it? I think not. Would we fight against it? You bet. So why shouldn't the Iraqis? They didn't ask for our help, they didn't have WMDs, they didn't try to buy yellow cake uranium in the Sudan, they didn't harbor or cultivate al-qaeda and the Bush/Cheney crime family knew this. They knew. So why are we killing them, soldiers and civilians(those going there to "rebuild") dying there and creating more terrorists? It doesn't make sense no matter how hard the Bush/Cheney crime family tries to spin it. Let me ask you this: why is it that these factions have been fighting for centuries yet, they never tried to kill us, not until we interfered. America started messing around taking sides between Iran/Iraq, Sunnis, Shiites? Only they can figure out how to get along. We can't make them. All we are doing is making them more angry and they are retaliating against us. That's what's happening. So what's the answer? Keep fighting, Keep sending more Americans to die? What's the answer? I keep hearing righties say that we can't let them win, as if this is a game. This is not a game. This administration made this mess and the Democrats will have to clean up behind the incompetents.

To Lefty wrote on Apr 30, 2007 6:37 PM:They hate the U.S. because it was influential in creating the State of Israel. They hate ALL western culture and they hate strong women. They don't like freedom or democracy because it threatens their male-dominated theocracies and their abusive comfort zone. They should be brought down for that reason alone. Forget about WMDs. At least some right wingers know that was all a big smokescreen that the Hawks in the White House sold to the world and the United Nations. What they really wanted was an excuse to crush Saddam Hussein and gain a foothold for business and democracy in the Middle East. Done! They couldn't do that during the Cold War because the Soviet Union would have interfered. Wake up dude! Whether there were WMDs or not, is not the issue. That whole WMD scare was invented to get a foot in the door. You probablly abhor that idea, but it was the smart move. You can't have idiots like Saddam Hussein sitting on the world's oil supply and causing more instability in Middle East. Afghanistan was not a great stage for a display of power with Osama bin Laden playing hide 'n' seek. Bin Laden wasn't exactly standing on the balcony of his palace brandishing a rifle, so Saddam made an easy target. The Iraq war was the easiest means to an end of letting the Islamic extremists and the entire Middle East know that the West won't be bullied by terrorists and regimes like Iraq and creating a foothold for democracy. Bush was not lying about that. His father already tested Iraq's strength in the first Gulf War and made sure the U.N. weakened his armies and weapons caches. The road was already paved for victory. It was a smart move - not on the home front - but for the future of democracy and the ways of the New Wolrd. It's not all about popularity and photo ops. Doing the unpopular jobs takes guts and I am glad Bush was there to do it and not Al Gore. Gore makes a much better dove saving the world from global warming than the hawk that is needed to fight Islamic terrorists.

Fran wrote on May 1, 2007 8:08 PM:Hillary spoke in a well modulated, intellegent voice. Mike A must be thinking of Bush with his mumbled, inarticulate, incoherent speech.