2008Central.net Presidential Election Podcast (09/26/08)

This podcast offers commentary and analysis about the first presidential debate about the economy and foreign policy between Barack Obama and John McCain at the University of Mississippi.

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Feel free to email us questions/suggestions for our next podcast (you can also email an audio file of your question and we’ll include it in the podcast).

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VIDEO: Presidential Debate Between Barack Obama and John McCain at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)

Tonight’s debate between John McCain and Barack Obama will begin at 9pm ET. The moderator will be PBS’ Jim Leher. The topic will be foreign policy (although, they will likely spend some time discussing the economy as well). Be sure to check out our blog on the debate or listen to our podcast as well…

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

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Live Blog Of CNN / LA Times / Politico Republican Debate In California (January 30, 2008)

[NOTE: If you're looking for coverage of the CNN/LA Times/Politico Democratic Debate in California between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, you can find our live blog of that debate here]

Tonight is the CNN/Los Angeles/Politico Republican Debate at the Ronald Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California. It will begin at 8pm est and will air on CNN and will stream live at both CNN and LA Times‘ websites. The participating candidates will be Mitt Romney, John McCain, Mike Huckabee and Ron Paul.

7:45: 15 minutes to go. I’m not sure what the seating locations will be yet, but I do know that McCain’s staffer won the first pick for location on the stage and had to call back to headquarters to confirm the location.

7:49: Format: No rules, No time limits. I guess ever since Wolf Blitzer threw out the rules at the last debate, CNN’s just decided to really go wild.

7:58: Lou Dobbs is expressing outrage (not necessarily about anything specific…just outrage…he wants you to know that he’s very disturbed).

8:00: And here we go! Anderson Cooper begins with a history lesson about the room they’re in. Usually, I’m opposed to these kind of explanatory intros, but given the fact that the debate is being held under the old Air Force One, I can understand the need to explain what the deal with the plane is.

8:03: First question, are Americans better off now than they were 8 years ago? Mitt Romney says that that’s a question for President Bush, then launches into defense of his record in Mass. Anderson Cooper gets indignant and wants an answer, Romney shows viewers that he’s able to stand up to Anderson Cooper, but does offer some discussion of the problems he sees in America now.

8:06: McCain says he’ll bring some straight talk, offers a bit of gloom and then talks about making the Bush tax cuts permanent. McCain states that he believes Americans are better off now than they were 8 years ago, if you look at everything.

8:07: Huckabee plainly states that he doesn’t think we’re better off now than we were 8 years ago, states that the President isn’t solely responsible, so is the congress. Huckabee says that Americans want someone that is honest and straight with them. I wonder if he’s aware that McCain already has that catchphrase locked up?

8:09: Paul states the problems are caused by foreign policy and we must acknowledge that those policies need to come to an end.

8:12: Romney takes a shot at McCain’s conservatism by noting McCain’s NY Times endorsement. McCain reminds Romney that both of Romney’s hometown papers, which know him best, endorsed him over Romney. Ouch. McCain continues to talk up his conservatism by mentioning some people that support him.

8:15: Romney defends his record on job growth by noting that some of the negative data on job growth included a time period under the former Governor. He also explains the fee increases under his administration. Romney also touts the work he did on health care and notes that when he left there was a balanced budget and a small surplus.

8:18: Huckabee talks conservatism: lower taxes, streamlining the government, amendment banning gay marriage and a life amendment. Something about these, “who is more conservative” questions seem sort of pointless at some point.

8:21: McCain is asked about Gov. Schwarzenegger’s environmental law proposals, which are much different than the steps that the Bush Administration would take towards combating climate change. Given the impending endorsement for Arnold, obviously McCain needs to tread lightly and he does. He responds by noting that he believes in federalism, which has really turned into code for “I won’t force you to do something. Please don’t shy away from me because of this issue.” McCain then gives his oft used version of Pascal’s Wager for support of green technology.

8:25: Romney says that he supports states’ rights to control and regulate their own emissions. Huckabee then tries to explain why Federalism is good, he then goes on to state that Alexander Hamilton was wrong. Uhhhh….he’s having a difficult enough time staying in this race against Romney, McCain and Paul…I’m pretty sure injecting Hamilton into this race would only make it worse for him. *sigh*

8:29: Paul asks for some time to discuss and issue and Cooper denies him. For a debate that wasn’t really supposed to have rules, Anderson Cooper seems awfully indignant.

8:33: Talk turns to the economy…excuse me while I relocate to the top floor of my building, preferably a seat near the edge…

8:35: On the economic stimulus: McCain says that we will probably need more. Wow! This is like saying that we need more puppies, fluffier pillows or locations that have Coke Zero available from the fountain.

8:36: McCain is challenged on his initial opposition to Bush’s tax cuts on the grounds that they favored the rich too much. McCain states that he was a foot soldier in the Reagan revolution…then proceeds with obfuscation.

8:40: The topic changes to immigration. Huckabee thinks we need to secure the border. He says that two things need to happen in order to do that: 1) build border fence and 2) all current illegal immigrants will need to go back to their home countries and wait in line. Ultimately, Huckabee thinks this is the most compassionate and kind thing…

8:41: Romney is asked about his statement that most illegal immigrants could be deported within 90 days. He didn’t initially recall saying it, and the questioner offered him the quote. Romney talks about being courteous deportation. For example, if the family has a child in school, you let the child finish that school year first. Romney reemphasizes he would not allow illegal immigrants to remain here permanently, then suggests that McCain’s legislation would have allowed for such a thing.

8:44: McCain is asked if his legislation were to come to the floor of the Senate today, and he states that it won’t happen. After being pressed, he states that he would not vote for it because it’s clear that people want the borders to be secured first. It seems somewhat inconsistent for McCain to tout sticking to his principles and ignoring the majority on Iraq…yet, so freely acknowledging deference to the will of the American people on the immigration issue.

8:47: Huckabee is asked if Reagan’s appointment of O’Connor was the right call. He won’t answer the question, but then launches into a discussion of why it’s important to support life and how he would want judges that were pro-life. Ron Paul is given a chance to respond, he says he wouldn’t have nominated her because of her view towards the constitution. Both McCain and Romney dodge the question and instead state the types of judges they would appoint. In a bold move, McCain cites Alito and Roberts as examples of the kinds of conservative judges he’d support. Romny ups the ante and cites Alito, Roberts, Thomas and Scalia as the type of conservative judges he would nominate (Yea, that’s right, take that John McCain). Then, stupidly, Romney takes a shot at O’Connor for apparently not following the Constitution enough and for legislating from the bench. I don’t care if you’re a Republican, Democrat, hardcore liberal or conservative, if you think Justice O’Connor was a bad Justice, then you’re either completely uninformed or completely incapable of making evaluations. Sheesh, and I thought Huckabee was going to take home the award for baseless attacks on historical figures (yes, I know O’Connor’s still alive, but she’s done enough to be part of history).

8:57: And we’re back. Maybe, they’ll finally include Ron Paul in this last half hour.

8:58: Romney is asked about Peggy Noonan’s contention that George W. Bush destroyed the Republican party. Romney states that George W. Bush showed everyone that when America is attacked, we’ll respond. Uhhhh….is that really the best defense he could give?

9:00: Romney promises success in Iraq, which he defines as no safe havens for terrorists in Iraq. He strongly stated that he does not have a date for withdrawal and does not support a timetable. He accuses McCain of being un-Reagan like by raising the issue before the Florida primary and indicates that it may explain the results of Florida.

9:03: McCain reiterates his argument by reading the quote to Romney. Romney asks him what it means. Romney continues to try and defend himself. The audience seems to be on Romney’s side on this issue. Romney and McCain bicker. McCain’s tone during this exchange, reminds me of my grandfather’s tone when we were having an argument about cathode ray tubes once (he used to be an engineer).

9:06: Anderson Cooper regains control, unfortunately, it required his blue steel look in order to calm things down. Cooper asks Romney why he wouldn’t comment explicitly on the surge back in 2006 as he was preparing to announce his run. Romney is mad and accuses McCain of “Washington style” politics.

9:08: McCain responds to the Washington style politics line, by reminding Romney of the negative ads he used against him and Huckabee. He also reminded everyone that Romney used millions of his own dollars in his campaign so far.

9:10: Paul is asked about McCain’s line that we could be fighting in Iraq for the next 100 years. So let me get this straight, the rare chance they include Paul, it’s to ask him a question about John McCain? Paul states that both Romney and McCain are parsing over minor details of the same general policy - both supported going in and both support continuing the war. Paul’s gotten the loudest cheers so far.

9:12: Anderson Cooper asks Huckabee the same question given to Paul. Huckabee complains about not getting time and questions. Then casually says in regards to the 100 year fighting line, “oh it doesn’t take that long.” Then goes on to say that he’ll stay however long it takes to win.

9:13: Huckabee is asked what he sees when he looks int Putin’s eyes. Huckabee states that Putin has taken actions that lead to concern and that we need to have a foreign policy that emphasizes strength. Advocates a stronger military, you know, for deterrence. Is he actually arguing that a return to mutually assured destruction is the only viable foreign policy vis-a-vis Russia at this point? *sigh*

9:17: Romney explains geopolitics: Russia using energy to control policy, China “the wild west of energy” using energy and giving nuclear power to influence policy, Al Qaeda using terrorism to influence policy and the USA, which stands for free enterprise and freedom of the individual. I don’t even know how to respond to this painfully oversimplified explanation of geopolitics. However, would Romney’s analogy make Chris Patten the Wyatt Earp of China? I think so. But aside from that, Romney didn’t even discuss the topic (that he himself said he’d address), which was how he’d deal with Russia.

9:21: Romney’s argument: people ultimately look to Governors and not Senators to lead this country. He was a governor, ipso facto, he should be the next leader. Aside from that, he worked in the private sector, and then goes on his economic argument rant…

9:23: Romney is asked why he’s more qualified to be Commander-in-Chief than McCain. Romney doesn’t believe you need military experience to be Commander-in-Chief. Romney says that he prefers chess to checkers (I’m serious).

9:24: McCain responds, takes an irrelevant shot at Romney for having led corporations that fired people. Another ouch. McCain mentions Tom Ridge for the second time this evening.

9:25: Ron Paul states that these people don’t understand that the President isn’t supposed to run the economy and reminds everyone of that fact. Paul then discusses the monetary system. Paul’s discussion of substance causes Andersoon Cooper to become impatient.

9:28: Huckabee complains more about time. Then talks about less government and why it’s important. He states that governors are good presidents because they understand that no issue is isolated..that everything is connected. Metakuya Oyasin.

9:30: Anderson Cooper graciously gives all of the candidates 1 minute to explain why Ronald Reagan would endorse them. This is an appalling question for several reasons, none the least of which is Nancy Reagan’s presence in the first row.

9:31: Mitt Romney says Ronald Reagan would support him because he’d lower taxes. McCain says that Reagan wouldn’t support someone that changes positions and that Regan would support him because he held firm on Iraq and because he was a foot soldier in the Reagan Revolution.

9:32: Ron Paul talked about how he supported Reagan in 1976, when only 4 other members of congress did and how Reagan campaigned with him. He states that Reagan was very sympathetic to the gold standard (an issue that Ron Paul is very much in favor of).

9:33: Huckabee doesn’t presume to know who Reagan would endorse. Then speaks to the goodness of Reagan and how it’s important to recapture that can do spirit.

9:34: And we’re done.

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Live Blog of South Carolina CNN / CBC Democratic Debate (January 21, 2007)

5:51: The debate starts at 8 pm tonight on CNN. It’s been a yin/yang sort of day, with the candidates making nice over Martin Luther King while Obama calls Bill Clinton a liar, more or less. Lucky us, we have master of the subtle Wolf Blitzer to guide us through the minefield. Also, note that Clinton might be pressed on reports that she’s not going to be back in South Carolina after tonight until Friday.

5:59: One other thing; thankfully, we’re Kucinich-free tonight as well. He’s not a viable contender at this point, so spare me the whining.

7:40: Back. To commenters, the debate is streaming on cnn.com. Right now Howard Dean is addressing the audience. Presumably, he’s not scheming to steal their delegates. (But he also is not addressing a silly emerging controversy that is completely his fault.)

7:42: Rules of the debate. Apparently the Secret Service did not allow any cell phones or pagers into the building. CNN is also excited to show America the candidates walking onto the stage, citing transparency. Hey, they’re CNN, they do dumb crap like show candidates walking instead of debating or talking policy. The first half of the debate is a podium debate with rules, and the second half is candidates seated with ‘no rules’! CNN is sadly excited about having no rules (if they are so excited, why not do the whole debate in that format?).

7:46: CNN cannot find Wolf. I’m serious. With any luck, he’s lost and we’ll get a real moderator.

7:47: CNN presses for applause on 40 members of Congress showing up. Well, they’re not busy doing anything else, there’s no excuse to not be there.

7:48: The CNN Washington Bureau Chief says his Blackberry is going off, and a disembodied voice demands that he get applause; he’s run out of things to talk about, and a member of the audience demands he start telling jokes.

7:50: They found Blitzer. Damnit.

7:52: Blitzer says it is fun, and his fourth debate. He introduces himself. Regarding his name, he “did not make it up for the first Gulf War” and it is his real name. This is absurd.

7:54: This is a two and a half hour debate? What the hell? I’m betting 65% of it is pointless. Blitzer says it’s not easy, and he’s right; picking out inane topics to fill so much time is a tough job. Blitzer is concerned and has a guy ‘fix him’ to ‘make sure he looks good.’ He asks the audienceif they have any questions, and they demand to know where he was; he laughs it off, which is emblematic of the whole program.

7:57: Joe Johns and Suzanne Malvaeux are there. Blitzer says he always saw Malvaeux covering ’some ugly story in Washington’ every night. Good to know his true opinions of Washington, apparently.

7:59: Disembodied British voice congratulates me on watching the process, whatever that means. I feel like I’m watching dirty laundry, if that makes any sense.

8:00: If there are no rules in the second half, can Dennis Kucinich wander up on stage? CNN is really pushing no rules, but at the same time, half of the debate has the same rules they’re criticizing.

Alright, we’re actually starting, apparently.

8:01: It’s Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, Wolf tells me. He announces the candidates are not on stage, but the press pool is. Thanks, Wolfman. Edwards is introduced first, Obama second (to slightly louder cheers than Edwards, whom he gives a half hug to), and Clinton (to regular cheers). She loudly welcomes Barack, John, and Wolf by name. No half hug for Hillary.

8:03: Clyburn in the house, as Malveaux says people want substance. Well, no shit sherlock. But we’re watching people takes pictures of people hugging.

8:04: You can’t have a moment of inactivity without Dean popping back up onstage. Joe Johns says people want to know who is on the ballot. Groundbreaking analysis from the best political team on television, or meaningless drivel? You be the judge!

The press finally starts to get out of the way.

8:06: More housekeeping, although ironically without an illegal immigrant. Maybe they are coming for Blitzer’s job? Blitzer says they are on the honor system for time. Good luck with that.

8:07: He’s still going on as if this is a new idea, not the 98th debate or whatever it is.

8:08: Joe Johns asks Clinton about the economy, and worldwide markets in a tailspin. He wants to know how much the average South Carolinian will get. Umm, WTF? Clinton talks about most of her plan going to deal with the mortgage crisis and a moratorium on foreclosures. She also talks about freezing the interest rate for 5 years, and giving people $650 to deal with energy costs; she segues from that to creating green jobs; she says rebates need to be done right and need to target seniors and ‘working people’ who do not pay income tax. Thanks the CBC for leading on the issue. Obama points out the King march on Washington was for jobs and not only for justice. Says Bush ruined the economy and failed with his leadership on the war and education. He says that Clinton caught up with him on rebates after he mentioned tax cuts, and mentions the same demographics as Clinton. Blitzer asks if $650 is enough. (Seriously, this is what is being discussed). Obama says Social Security is a manner through which you can provide rebates and money for energy. Edwards starts by making up for his gender and race by talking up the CBC and the work of King, and how bad poverty is. He does admit there is no rebates in his package, but says he wants to end poverty. He says the difference is that he provides long term benefits in energy. Clinton just talked about doing this. Edwards says there is a difference on jobs, and the Peru trade deal hurt South Carolina … but Blitzer cuts him off and distinguishes the candidates on long term v. short term. This is an unfocused mess, with everyone giving their own talking points on the economy.

8:16: Obama says green jobs are important, but a long term focus. Says an immediate stimulus is necessary, not just long term. Obama says there are textile mills closed because of Nafta (and hits Clinton on it again). On Peru, Obama says Peru had standards for environment and labor, and the economy is the size of New Hampshire, and concludes by hitting Edwards on China. This is a hard hitting debate from Obama and Edwards so far. Clinton says that her original plan allowed for rebates, but does not want Republicans to alter the tax code, but now is too late and there is no other option. She criticizes Bush instead of responding in turn to Obama. She also talks up the green jobs, specifying some program in Oakland, before allowing that it is a long term issue. Says the CBC will lead on green jobs. This is awful and unfocused. Edwards says his green jobs would be created within 30 days. Edwards’ father is in the audience. Edwards says enforcement of standards lies with Bush. Obama says that he’ll be enforcing the laws in a year. Obama says Edwards gives powerful talk, but he’s taken action on the matter as a community organizer. Obama is criticizing Edwards for talk as compared to his action. Interesting turn of the tables.

8:22: Question for Obama on fiscal responsibility. Obama says that what Clinton said was not true, and it’s part of a pattern of factually inaccurate statements. Wow, Obama on the warpath. Criticizes Bill’s statements on his position on Iraq, or statements on ideas since Reagan. Says improvements matter, and that he’s tried to run a substantive campaign.Clinton responds that’your record and what you say does matter.’ Says Obama continually has to clarify what he said. Clinton says Republican ideas were bad, but Obama liked them “and we can give you the exact quote.” Says there is no evidence on his site on how he would pay for foreign programs. Says that he did oppose the war in 2002, but took the speech off his site and agreed with Bush and voted to fund the war. Says it is about words v. action. Obama said Clinton just lied about his statements and the two start bickering. Criticizes Clinton for being a corporate lawyer on the board of Walmart, and he spent a lifetime fighting Reagan’s policies. Says that appealing to independents and Republicans to build a working majority. Says Clinton and Bill Clinton praised Reagan in Brokaw’s book. Edwards starts yelling and Clinton goes off. Obama jumps in that he does not know who he is running against. This is great. Obama says he did not say the ideas were good ones. Clinton brings in Rezko and calls him a slum landlord, and Blitzer goes … to Edwards, who complains about being left out. Edwards says this squabbling helps no one, and is not about candidates personally. Goes back to fiscal responsibility and touts his plans. Edwards says Obama and he both talked about reform of Social Security, but Hillary does not talk about raising the cap even though it makes sense economically. Says Clinton does not want to talk about raising taxes.

8:33: Johns asks Edwards if lenders have specifically targeted African Americans? Edwards says yes, it’s a racial issue. Then he immediately backs off and says they targeted the lowest income families who tend to be black. Says we cannot pretend there is not a history of slavery and discrimination; that leaves African Americans more vulnerable to predatory lenders. Says he saw 38 foreclosures in one block in Cleveland. That’s because there’s no jobs there, John. I lived there. Says people need to be taught financial responsibility. Blitzer says Greenspan that plans like Clinton’s would prolong the agony by having a freeze. Clinton says economists were wrong for the past years, and it is destroying dreams of Americans, and it is a ‘work out’ not a ‘bail out.’ Says banks can borrow money from Abu Dhabi but people lose their homes. Obama says that helping people is important, not helping the speculators. He says it is not new, and there is a long history of preying on poor people. Echoes Edwards in that more people need access to banks. He talks of his action in introducing a bill two years ago and what he did in Illinois. Talks about the bankruptcy bill of 2001, and Clinton’s statement that she voted for it but hoped it would not pass. Obama gets a chance to respond to the charges on Rezko. Says he did five hours of work in a long firm for a church group, but the biggest issue is people trusting leaders. Clinton responds that she regretted voting for it and said so, and opposed a similar bill in 2005. Talks about an amendment of credit card companies charging over 30 percent interest and Obama voted for it. Also says that Obama did bidding for insurance companies in Illinois on health care. Says she is used to taking fire, and you have to expect attacks ‘in this arena.’ Obama says he voted for it but the limit was too high, and he opposed the bill the entire time. Oh, legislation. This is why Senators are not elected president. Clinton says Obama never takes responsibility and talks up the present votes. It’s a really dishonest line of attack. Obama says he feels bad for Edwards. Obama says he sponsored the bill in question. Says that he’s had family members be victims, and there was a legal problem with it. Says it presents one issue in the wrong light. Says people cannot say anything to get elected.

8:46: Edwards says that it is important to take hard positions. References the CBC taking hard positions. Wonders why Obama voted present. Obama says present votes indicated you had problems with a bill that you would otherwise vote for. Edwards says it would be safer to just not show up. Obama says there was technical problems with votes. Says he opposed legislation that put juveniles in the system as adults, and spoke out against the war. Says Illinois is different from Congress. That took too long.

8:49: On health care, now. Why are African American women better off under Clinton’s plan? She says it is not not government run and includes everyone. Says it will withstand attacks from the right. Says bills will be passed on to everyone, not just those sick. Johns asks if his plan covers illegal immigrants. Obama says it does not, since there are limited resources. Says there is an obligation to cover children. Says the critical issue is how to cover everyone. Says Clintons tried to pass health care in 1993 in the wrong way, that you have to have negotiations in a public setting. Says responsibility includes Congress as well, and that can only be done through the people. Edwards says none of the three plans covers illegal immigrants. Says you can strengthen the net of health care that could include people if there is comprehensive immigration reform. Edwards goes on to say that Obama’s plan is not universal. Obama says he received money from employees, not lobbyists. He says this is a legitimate policy debate, and that he disagrees with a mandate on adults that forces people to buy health insurance. Says Edwards allows that it might mean taking money out of people’s paychecks. Segues to his stock discussion of lowering costs and copayments. Says his plan reduces costs through catastrophic accident. Obama says that it allows for anyone to opt in, and that Edwards and Clinton do not coverthose with hardship arguments. Obama mentions Massachusetts, and Edwards says this is like the Social Security debate. Clinton says that you cannot get universal health care if you do not start out by standing for it. Says this is a core Democratic issue, and she will ‘go to the mat for it.’ Talks about Obama being for single payer in the past, and this being separate. She links it back to the ‘present’ votes and cites Sweet (I think) who said it was taking a pass. Obama gets 30 seconds and Edwards wishes him luck. Says if you are not making health care affordable that you cannot mandate it. Says that people will purchase the health care if it is affordable. Says that a single payer is only preferable in theory. Says that Hillary’s presentations have evolved. This is tense.

9:03: Moving to Iraq for the first time in a long time, it seems. Question about her statement that the next president has to end the war. Does she want to end the war or win it? She says she wants to bring troops home, and there is no military solution. Says that ‘the so called surge’ was able to pacify some areas, but the purpose of the surge was to move the Iraqi government quickly towards resolution. Says the political debate is motivating Iraqis. Blitzer asks Edwards about McCain saying the surge is working. Edwards says the surge was intended to create an environment for political progress. He jokes about even Bush recognizing it. Says there has been no meaningful political progres, then just a little. Edwards says everyone is committed to ending the war, but how quickly and aggressively is a question. Obama gives the careful getting out as careless getting in line. Says it depends on what happens in the next year, but creating a stable Iraqi government with no permanent bases is the goal. Obama says that financially the war is not sustainable, and Al Qaeda is stronger than ever since 2001 and needs to be addressed. Clinton says she will move as quickly as possible, and agrees with Obama on not knowing what will be inherited from Bush. Clinton mentions Bush’s argument of pushing for permanent bases in Iraq without the consent of Congress. Touts the CBC working on this legislation.

Time for a commercial debate. No rules, coming up. I hope Kucinich wanders up on stage. That would be high comedy.

9:15: The crowd laughs at the inability of CNN to exchange podiums for chairs.

9:19: Seven minutes later, the chairs are in place. Question for Obama on Rangel saying that black voters should do not what makes them feel good but is what is best for the country. Obama says the notion is right and women should vote that way and white males, Says he is running because he wants to bring the country together, and looks forward to working with him as President. Awkward question.

9:21: More awkward question, on whether African Americans will be seen differently if there is an African American president. Says that he is on the vanguard of issues Kings worked for, like poverty. This is as pointless as the MSNBC debate. Really, really, really dumb. Clinton respects his commitment to end poverty, and talks of working at the Children’s Defense fund after graduating law school. It’s why she is in legal service, etc. She wants a ‘reality check’ on how to end poverty. Says African Americans lost income under Bush, but were gained income in the 90s. She may as well be screaming ‘the 90s were great! Let’s go back!’ Obama says that he has put forward a poverty plan, but it’s more than talking about it during a campaign, and he worked in low income areas. He says that it’s not about race, but people want to move beyond it for positive change, partially blaming the media. Says there is an “African American, a woman, and John” to laughter, and talks up the Democratic Party on the issues. Edwards cites his battles with Bill O’Reilly on homeless veterans, and other work. It’s a resume battle and Richardson is nowhere to be seen. Edwards tells a story about poverty.

9:31: Question for Obama on Bill Clinton being the first black president. What does Obama think? Hillary chuckles. Obama cites Bill’s affinity with the African American community that still exists that is well earned. Says that the progress made indicates that people can change, and Bill is emblematic of that. Says that he’d have to look into Bill’s dancing abilities ‘before he judges whether he was a brother.’ Hillary says that can be arranged, and this is suddenly a love in. What a weird shift. Clinton says the stage celebrates King. Cites the ‘content of our character’ comment of King. Says the differences between them have a responsibility to be brought out. Obama says that there should not be too much civility. He says that ingoring the race and gender of a candidate does not mean you ignore racial problems in the country. Clinton moves into gender inequality as Obama agrees. There’s absolutely no attacks anymore. How strange. She goes onto attacking Republicans for not addressing these issues. John Edwards says his father who is in the audience (and worked in a mill!) taught him that people that work in the mill and own the mill are equal. Says America is not just about rich folks who can move out of problem neighborhoods.

9:40: Clinton is asked about Bill overshadowing her, as the audience oooohs. She defends him advocating on her behalf, but the campaign is not about spouses. Says what matters is who is the best president on day 1 and who can withstand the Republican attacks. Says it is not about them, but about the people, citing her 35 years of experience. It’s turning into a list of talking points, and I get the feeling attacks are coming. She says politics is not a game. Obama says he would expect Bill to campaign vigorously. Obama mentions that he is troubled to the extent of which his record is portrayed. Obama tries to distinguish withstanding the attacks from redrawing the political boundries to get through legislation they are talking about. Says that Bush and Cheney have given their party a bad name, and its a crucial opportunity to expand the Democratic base, and that there has been record turnout, noting that he is not taking all the credit. Edwards says people are voting for who is going to oppose McCain, and who can campaign against him everywhere in America. Edwards says he will campaign in the south against McCain. Edwards says it is important who can be competitive in rural areas, joking it is not a racial issue. Cites the CNN poll that put him up the most against McCain. Edwards is really tiptoing carefully on electability. Blitzer jumps in suddenly for another commercial break. Cue the overly dramatic music ….

9:52: Blitzer says there is a ‘raging conversation’ going on at CNNPolitics.com. But does not say what it is on.

9:53: Obama says he won rural areas in Nevada, and moves on to the issue of faith, saying that the Democrats did not reach out to evangelicals because of ‘choice’ or gay rights. Clever way to rebut the Muslim spears, but a bit heavy handed as he continually mentions he is a Christian. Hillary jumps in that there are polls that show her winning too. Clinton says a McCain nomination means a general election on national security and says she is the best on that issue. Says she has been there and done that and is still here. Edwards now says it is not about polls. Edwards cites campaign finance reform that McCain stands for and says that he made a commitment to not hiring corporate lobbyists. She says Edwards draws artificial distinctions and accepts money from people related to corporate lobbyists. Edwards says people expect something for their money. Edwards defends money he accept from trial lawyers who want him to stand up for rights in the courtroom.  Clinton says there is no difference, and she wants to get campaign finance. She says its important to look at the interests, not who rejects the lobbyists. Obama says no one has clean hands, but there are distinctions who can be drawn. Obama goes back to national security issues, and says that you take on McCain not by being like John McCain, but you have to have a strong contrast who stands against the politics of fear. Says he would not hesitate to strike if someone threatened America, but you have to describe a new foreign policy that looks at negotiating with enemies, instead of battling on GOP territory. Edwards says you have to appeal to youth and prevent them from going to Al Qaeda. Wants America to be a shining light. Reaganesque, ironically.

10:01: If MLK were alive - and Wolf points out he is not - why should he endorse you? Edwards drops the name of MLK III and  says poverty and equality. Cites the Voting Rights Act and people disengaged who do not vote. Obama says King would not endorse but would hold people accountable. Talks about change being from the bottom down, specifically mentions women a couple of times. Clinton says change comes from the American people, but King pushed political leaders and pushed them to be part of the movement, citing Clyburn and John Lewis (if you drank every time she mentioned the CBC tonight, you’d have been passed out by 9:30). She says she intends to follow in his lead, and everyone shakes hands as Wolf thanks everyone.

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Follow-Up: Obama Softens Tune On Chinese Imports Ban

A few days ago, I discussed a remark about Chinese imports that Obama said at a campaign stop in New Hampshire. Obama said:

“I would stop the import of all toys from China. Now, I have to say that that’s about 80 percent of toys that are being imported right now.”

It’s a very strong statement…probably too strong. It hasn’t received much attention in the mainstream press, but it has gotten some attention in the blogosphere. The comment did receive the attention of China’s Foreign Ministry. Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Qin Gang, responded, saying:

“It is not objective and unwise to say no to all products due to the low quality of a small part of products.”

“Some American products also have quality problems, so can we take it as an excuse to ban the imports of all American products?”

At a campaign stop in Iowa today, Obama has softened up his rhetoric on the issue. He no longer seems to be calling for an immediate ban on Chinese imports, but he is promising to improve the quality of products. Obama said:

“Now don’t get me wrong, as president I will work with China to keep harmful toys off our shelves. But I’ll also immediately take steps to ensure that all toys are independently tested before they reach our shores and I’ll significantly increase penalties on companies that break the rules.”

“The more toys we import from China, the more risk to our children. As president I will act with urgency to protect our children from being harmed by unsafe toys.”

Indeed, Sen. Obama has dropped the statement that he would immediately ban all imports and has carefully replaced it with a vague statement that he would “immediately take steps to ensure” that toys are tested. Obviously, it’s a minor political misstep, but it does underscore a major concern amongst voters about Obama - his experience (or lack thereof depending on which way you look at it). I wonder if he, and some of the other presidential candidates, truly realize the impact their remarks could have on geopolitics and the global economy if it looks as they they will become the next president. Obviously, the fact that he brought the issue up again in Iowa in order to clarify his remarks demonstrates his campaign’s recognition that he probably should not have initially said that he would ban all products.

It might serve voters better if the mainstream press started paying a bit more attention to the substance of candidates remarks at this crucial time and a bit less attention on candidates’ Christmas commercials. I realize that discussing the latest (and meaningless) poll and Rudy Giuliani’s red sweater vest are incredibly important topics that deserve huge amounts of time, but, a candidate’s policy that could have a serious economic impact if elected is probably worth a few minutes of discussion.

[Photo Credit: New York Magazine]

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Obama: I Will Ban All Toy Imports From China

At a campaign stop in New Hampshire this week, Obama took a tough position on the recent health hazards associated with some Chinese toy imports, saying:

“I would stop the import of all toys from China. Now, I have to say that that’s about 80 percent of toys that are being imported right now.”

I’ll have to find a better article to exam the statement in a larger context, but this position strikes me as … as … well pretty bad. I mean, given the current economic state, stopping the import of 80% of toys to the United States might present an economic problem for us. Moreover, I wonder how tough we can actually afford to be with China given their growing influence in the liquidity of our economy. No doubt, we need to get tougher with China. But, this is a very different statement than what Sen. Obama made at the NPR debate just a few weeks ago. I wonder what’s changed?

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Live Blog Of Des Moines Register Democratic Debate (December 13, 2007)

2:00: And we’re here. First question about balancing the budget. Richardson shockingly talks about being a governor. Biden blames bad Republican priorities. Dodd talks about how everything is complicated and there needs to be jobs and no more war in Iraq. It’s a complicated answer and spends more time saying Richardson’s experience is meaningless than anything. The battle for fourth continues! Edwards says taking on greed in the federal government is the key to everything. Doesn’t really say how. Clinton talks about the success of the Clinton administration in this area, and that it cannot be done in a year, but economic growth requires fiscal discipline.

2:10: When are tax increases appropriate? Richardson talks about taxing the wealthiest more, and a constitutional amendment for balancing the budget with about 5 exceptions. More ending the war talk. Edwards continues the assault on corporations by blaming them for this system, and ending the tax breaks for people that take jobs overseas. Also talks about specific policies he’s proposed without saying if these changes would pay for everything. Clinton says she wants to restore taxes on corporations from the 90s.

2:14: Won’t it take time to cut military expenses from Iraq? Biden talks about making serious cuts in the Defense Department. Obama says he’s put forward where the money would come from for every proposal he made. Obama talks about a building in the Cayman Islands that houses 12,000 corporations. There’s no way to distinguish any of the top 3 candidates on anti-corporate rhetoric. It’s simply impossible. Richardson jumps on the Biden train and talks about MORE programs he would institute. Dodd talks about being pro-growth and the child tax credit and the earned income tax credit. Minimalistic response…

2:17: Richardson talks about China being a competitor and leadership being needed … and then about how much leverage China has by holding our debt. Dodd talks about how much China is adversarial in regards to trade and something needs to be done. Nothing about how he would change things aside from being ‘tough.’

2:20: Clinton is asked about entitlement programs. Talks about Medicare specifically being a problems with rising costs and Social Security in the long run. Touts her plan with reducing Social Security. Biden says lifting the cap on Social Security is an easy solution (everyone but her seems to say that). Biden gives the preventative and modernization schtick. It’s a good schtick, but never seems to go anywhere. Obama jumps on the prevention train, citing obesity rates from 1980 saving a trillion dollars. He then talks about changing politics in Washington. Richardson says universal health care is a right and then goes into the prevention train.

2:24: Open statement, from Obama. References King and the fierce urgency of now. Thematic, and concludes by asking everyone to caucus for him. Edwards goes next, talking about corporate power and corporate greed, and being willing to fight them, and its what he has done his entire life (it’s phrases like that that bring up the Fortress stuff). He finishes by accidentally saying America will be worse. Ummm….

2:26: Trades v. Terrorism: Biden says human rights standards should be added to trade agreements. Richardson channels Carter in saying Human rights is a fundamental tenet of Americna foreign policy. Says we should consider sanctioning China unless they hold open elections. Really?He keeps going by adding so many standards that none of those he mentions has an impact. Dodd talks about the Harken amendment in a blatant attempt to pander. Says it should be universal right, not ad hoc. Iraq, Chris? Edwards says human rights should be essential, but America gets dangerous toys and plant closures. I’d love to hear a word count on corporate for the day.

2:31: Clinton says NAFTA ought be changed, and that there are winners and losers from NAFTA, and she will ask for revisions and get labor and environmental standards. Doesn’t want to be a trade patsy. Obama pretty much agrees. He goes back to human rights and says that situations like Guantanamo undermine leverage on human rights. An issue of going back that really worked. Dodd jumps in with saying he proposed sanctions in the Senate for Darfur that passed unanimously.

2:32: Biden talks about how America is ready for action and cites a Catholic hymn. Richardson thanks Iowa humorously and then segues into how many Americans are dying in Iraq and bad VA treatment. Awkward segue there, but he seemed to somehow pull it off.

2:35: How would you turn energy costs of your plans into a benefit for the economy? Biden talks about some things that can be done, but sacrifice is necessary ultimately. Richardson is a governor and was energy secretary, if you did not know. Also, he talks about how it was a shame that the Senate killed the Energy Bill. Talks for a long time but doesn’t say much. Dodd continues pandering and dropping Iowan names, and then goes to the corporate carbon tax, and that Gore endorsed it. Finishes on a rhetorical flurry that would be impressive if he was a candidate who mattered. Clinton talks aabout a cap and trade system and new ways to get to objectives while cushioning costs, while enlisting people in a cause. Another rhetorical flurry, but aimed at avoiding specifics that would harm her in a general election. Obama says its a moral imperative for his daughters. Obama talks about wind turbines in Keokuk, which is also pandering but at least interesting. Talks about being bold enough to talk about efficiency in Detroit, which isn’t as bold as he made it seems. Edwards blames … corporate interests, don’t you know. Implies there’s no difference between carbon tax or a cap and trade system. Finishes with a moral responsibility claim. Clinton jumps in regarding the raise your hand on global warming thing from yesterday, saying ‘we all believe in it.’ This is what she did at earlier debates - showing leadership of the candidates, even if unprompted.

2:44: How would you have voted on the farm bill? Dodd says he would definitely vote to preserve Iowa. Shocking. Obama says he would cap subsidies for agri-business to help the family farm. Far more nuanced than Dodd, but the pander-thon continues. Says he would have voted against the farming bill. Biden drops the Culver name as well and says he doesn’t see farmers in Iowa, as there’s no family farmers left, really. Finishes by citing Tom Harken. Clinton says she follows Harken on the farm issue, and apparently has New York family farmers traveling Iowa today to help Iowan family farmers. Says family farmers are almost an ‘endangered species.’

2:48: Clinton is touched by Iowan stories. Says you don’t get change by demanding it or hoping for it, you get it by working hard for it, and asks people to caucus for her. Echoes of John Kerry working the front lines there. Dodd talks about a sense of competence and achievement and working in the Peace Corps. “We ask for your vote.” I’m not a fan of the royal we.

2:50: How do we improve schools? Edwards says get them young, universal Pre-K. Wants a national teaching university like the naval academy, and big changes in No Child Left Behind. And wraps up with … two Americas! Somewhere, Mitt Romney is throwing something at a TV. Richardson realizes how many ‘top priorities’ he has and say it would be one of the top priorities. He wants more science and math; Also wants to reform the high school curriculum ‘with local control.’ I don’t understand that whatsoever. And finishes with teachers getting paid more and an appeal to art. Follow up with a question about New Mexico; Richardson talks about how bad education was and how high teachers are now paid. Watch the footwork as he dodges the issue!

2:54: Obama jumps on the above lines of thought, and then moves on to asking parents to do more to help education. Dodd says education is the key to everything, and the accident of birth. And he agrees that it’s important to start with parents, and leadership that talks about it everyday. Clinton talks about a long history of work and ‘knows’ that the president has a bully pulpit (which plenty others already mentioned, but she’s framing it as in she knows what the White House is about). Dull answer, interesting framing. Edwards chides the moderator for asking him the qusetion twice, and talks about paying for college at community college or a state university. The moderator chides him back saying he raised his hand. Biden talks about his wife teaching today.

3:00: Your first year, what can you do: Obama talks about starting to end the war and initating diplomacy. Second, undermining every executive order by Bush. Then health care. Biden says he will order the Biden plan in Iraq, and making other health care and education reforms. Richardson will end the war, pass universal health care, energy reforms, and that he will follow the Constitution. He goes on and on, and the moderator, Biden, and Dodd all crack lines about it.

3:04: Personal ethical question. Will Clinton be as secretive as her health care plan was criticized as being? When asked about gaffes, Biden talks about Indians building families though “7/11s, Duncan Donuts, etc.” it’s about building families and similar to Italians owning restaurants and that he talks bluntly. Everyone on stage agrees that Biden has bona fides on civil rights, Obama in particular. How can Edwards accomplish goals with calling groups in Washingotn corrupt? Easy question for him, it’s straight from his stump speech. Talks about an epic battle in front of us. Nowhere near as elephant in the room as the first two questions. It’s important to win … but doesn’t talk about how he would fight. Just that he would fight. How much is Dodd motivated by the memory of his father being censured by the Senate for misusing campaign funds? Dodd says that his father was well intentioned and he wants to continue that tradition. Richardson is asked about the troubles when he was Energy Secretary with Wen Ho Lee. Richardson says it was about nuclear secrets and Lee being incarcerated and that he’s glad the other gaffes were not raised (seriously). He doesn’t want to apologize for protecting nuclear secrets. Obama is asked about relying on Clinton foreign policy advisers as Clinton cackles (hey, I have an awkward laugh too, let’s call a spade a spade); Obama shoots back he is looking forward to Hillary advising him as well. Obama says there’s plenty of people from Clinton, Carter, and the Bush I years that know what they are talking about.

3:15: Would you use signing statements? Clinton says she would use them like they were used before W, telling a funny anecdote about Bush making a signing statement to practically veto a bill she passed on FEMA. Edwards agrees wit hthat and says that all branches of government should be co-equal … (he does not mention taking away health care).

3:17: New Years Resolutions: Clinton talks about family, exercise, and campaigning that Democrats can be proud of. Edwards says that children are going hungry, without health insurance, and people are losing jobs. Far more powerful appeal than Clinton’s. Dodd talks about optimism, hope, and moral authority, and juxtaposes Guantanamo with Nuremberg; finishes with a caucusing joke. Richardson says his resolution every year is to lose weight. Says that Congress and the President should end the dysfunctional relationship, but that he should stay positive. Ummm, 1+1 does nto equal 3, Bill. Biden says that he tries to remember where he came from, and remember when things were bad so you can appreciate the good times. Obama talks about being a better family man and remind himself that it is not about him and he cannot be afraid of losing.

3:22: Lessons from Iowa: the logical conclusion of Pander-rama. Clinton thanks everyone, and that she has eaten her way across Iowa and will remember them when President. Back to inevitability! Edwards talks about Iowans driven by the gut. Dodd talks about Iowa. Richardson talks about how he has studied the Iowa history, and how they like underdogs. Biden says Iowa deserves to be first. Obama talks about core decency. He’s deliberately avoiding the inevitability rhetoric.

That’s it. Briefly: Pander, pander, pander, plus Clinton is back to the early strategy….

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Dodd Challenges Edwards On NAFTA, Astonishingly Misses The Point

The Dodd Campaign issued the following press release this morning regarding John Edwards and NAFTA:

On background, thought you may be interested…

John Edwards on NAFTA Today:
NAFTA was Sold to the American People with Empty Promises
“NAFTA was that it would grow the economy and create millions of new jobs. But today, we know those promises were empty,’ he said in remarks prepared for delivery at a town hall forum in Derry. ‘In all three countries, it has hurt workers and families while helping corporate insiders.’” [Associated Press, 12/8/07]

John Edwards on NAFTA in 2004:
NAFTA is “Important” and It “Should Exist.”
In a 2004 meeting with the New York Times editorial board, John Edwards said “NAFTA should exist” and declared “NAFTA is important—it is an important part of our global economy, an important part of our trade relations.” In the same meeting, Edwards also cast his trade positions as “a tick away” from the free trade championing Democratic Leadership Council. At the time, Edwards was seeking the endorsement of the paper’s editors, who had supported NAFTA in 1993. [New York Times, 2/24/04; New York Times editorial, 11/17/93]

John Edwards on NAFTA in 2002:
NAFTA had “Unintended Consequences.”
“‘NAFTA had a lot of unintended consequences,’ he [Edwards] said Tuesday. ‘No one knew when it passed how dramatic the effect would be in places like North Carolina.’” [The Asheville Citizen-Times editorial, 4/20/02]

*sigh*

Alright, this is really a silly press release. The Dodd campaign is trying to portray Edwards as being inconsistent on NAFTA. The truth is: he really hasn’t been inconsistent in his statements on NAFTA. The 2004 quote came as during a time when he was beginning to set himself up to be Kerry’s running mate. He had taken Kerry (and others) to task on NAFTA during the campaign and was beginning to moderate his position a bit. Even though in that quote he said NAFTA was important and should still exist, during that time he began arguing for revisions to NAFTA to address what he considered to be problems with it.

What frustrates me is that it really wasn’t necessary for the Dodd campaign to stretch quotations in order to make Edwards look like he has inconsistent opinions on NAFTA. It would have been better had they gone after his record.

For example (and there are plenty of others), Edwards voted against S.J. Res. 27, which was a resolution “disapproving the extension of nondiscriminatory treatment (normal trade relations treatment) to the products of the People’s Republic of China” (Legislation like this takes on new meaning now over concerns of lead in Chinese products). It might have been better for Dodd to target Edwards for claiming that if he is elected president, he will bring about change, but noting that when he was a senator and had the ability to effect change, he did not stand by his beliefs and statements. That to me, seems like a much more legitimate criticism than attacking someone over a quote clearly taken out of context.

Unfortunately, more meaningful political discourse would either require voters to raise the bar on the press and on presidential candidates or for presidential candidates to act like the leaders they claim to be and demonstrate that politics can discussed in a much better way. I don’t really see the latter happening anytime soon, but maybe, just maybe, we will all soon realize that voting is more than just an exercise, it’s a delegation of authority to someone who will make decisions that affect us in very real ways and will therefore start demanding more of our candidates.

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2008Central.net’s Presidential Election Podcast (11/26/07)

This podcast covers (1) problems with Bill Richardson’s campaign, (2) the reality of Mike Huckabee’s recent momentum, (3) Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama argue over a Novak Column, (4) the significance of experience in the 2008 election, (5) Fred Thompson’s troubles and (6) more…

Feel free to email us questions/suggestions for next week’s podcast (you can also email an audio file of your question and we’ll include it in the podcast).

Subscribe to 2008Central.net’s Presidential Election Podcast

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Live Blog Of CNN Democratic Debate In Las Vegas, Nevada (November 15, 2007)

7:55: We’re here and ready to go. Campaign news of the day: John Edwards launches this site, aimed at taking down Hillary Clinton (at any cost?). General news of the day: Barry Bonds was indicted.

8:00: Mike Gravel is again not here. I have to think that hurts Clinton the most, as all the other attacks on Clinton sting less when Gravel is sitting on the sideline attacking everyone.

8:01: Candidates are being introduced one at a time, and CNN decided to “bring to you” the photo opp. What a shocker, CNN bringing something of little to no substance and touting it as some innovation. Clinton definitely got the loudest ovation when entering the stage. From left to right: Biden, Richardson, Kucinich, Clinton, Obama, Dodd, and Edwards.

8:04: CNN tries to bring in its political team, and says Clinton has to engage. I disagree with them: Clinton has the audience on her side, so anyone who attacks too hard risks getting hard boos they probably do not want. This goes for Edwards more than Obama. The CNN political analysts keep talking about mixing it up. How about previewing particular issues? 7 minutes in, not a single mention of anything beyond the horserace.

8:08: Campbell Brown and John Roberts are asking the introductory question, and Blitzer will ask follow ups at his discretion.

8:09: Clinton is asked about her immigration position and Edwards’ attack of the ‘politics of parsing.’ Clinton says people know where she’s stood, and talks of the importance of a tested candidate and leading from day 1. Obama is brought in regard ‘triangulating … whatever that means.’ He says that straight answers to tough questions are needed, and cites her answers the past two weeks, and also cites Social Security. Gives his stump speech of Washington changing. Clinton responds that Obama’s health care plan is a failure, as it leaves 15 million people out (coincidentally the population of Nevada, SC, Iowa, and New Hampshire). Obama says the problem is nto mandating health care plans, but making it available and affordable. Clinton jumps in, saying the Obama’s plan “does not cover everyone” and “does not mandate the kind of change mine does” as Obama says “that’s not true.” Blitzer tries to move on, but Obama forces an answer as someone in the audience starts yelling, distracting Obama. Now John Edwards finally gets a chance, saying it is about ‘trust,’ and there are fair questions. He goes over Iraq, Iran, Social Security, and change in general. Much more concise and focused of an answer than Obama’s repetitive answers. People in the audience are getting restless and yelling randomly. Clinton indicates that Edwards’ attacks are out of the Republican attack book, and that Edwards was not for universal health care when he ran in 04 but is now. Hillary bringing out the big guns. Biden says that this is ridiculous, and it’s not what people care about. Says it’s about action, not experience and change. Cites Georgia, Russia, and Pakistan. Starts a laundry list of things he’s done, but cuts himself out.

8:20: Second question, Edwards is asked about changing his positions, on Yucca and health care. Says he thinks its about learning and maturing and everyone ought be willing to do that. Says that is different from saying two things at the same time. Edwards cites Clinton saying two things on trade in the past week, as the audience noticably groans. Says the question is about America. This is just a nightmare; the issues are not getting talked about, the only thing getting talked about is vague generalities. Now Dodd gets asked about saying Edwards has changed. Dodd says there is a shrillness to the debate, and truer words have never been spoken. Richardson starts off 24 minutes in by introducing himself, and says that Edwards wants to start a class war, Obama wants to start a generational war, and Clinton wants to keep the Iraq war going, and that he wants to give peace a chance. Light laughter for a line that must have seemed a lot better on paper. Finishes with a call to be positive … after slamming the top three. What a nightmare.

8:25: Everyone gets asked if they would support the nominee. Edwards asks if the question was planted, I roll my eyes. Everyone of consequence says yes, Bidenjokingly says “Hell no!”

8:26: Obama gets asked about immigration. Says people should be frustrated. Step one of his is border security, step two is holding employers accountable, and that would get them out of the shadows, and after they pay a fine and go to the back of the line, then there can be peace on the issue. Specifically on licenses, he says they come to work, not to go get food, and that he voted for it in Illinois. Blitzer presses for a yes or no, and Obama hedges a bit (oddly, given what he just said: it’s a bad moment. From five stars to zero in terms of clarity) and says it is a distraction. His first two answers were great, the last one was mediocre at best. Edwards says no, Dodd says no, Obama says yes, Clinton no, Kucinich argues about language, Richardson says he did it, and Biden says no. Richardson and Edwards elaborate at length.

8:34: Dodd is asked what is wrong with merit pay if teachers make a difference. Dodd talks about the standards being crucial, and education is the most important issue. He gets a loud cheer for attacking No Child Left Behind, and then gives a -yawn- laundry list of bills he was involved in. He calls for a single debate on education. Blitzer says that “they’re talking about education now” before changing the subject to unions. Kucinich is asked if there are any unions with which he disagrees. Kucinich says unions are key to human rights, and workers should be included in trade deals. Richardson says he wants to be the education President and teachers are underpaid, and NCLB should be abolished. Clinton says that merit pay should be by school, and that teachers who are bad should be weeded out. This debate is slightly better now that it’s not meta, but just about issues. Biden says that the judgment should be improving themselves outside of the classroom. Talks about his plan to spend more money on education.

8:42: Biden is asked about Pakistan, and the balance between democracy and a key allies. Biden says he’s talked personally to Musharaff and Bhutto, even before Bush did. Says he would take action on military aid and increasing economic aid to help the middle class. Richardson is asked about his proposal to cut off military aid helping the terrorists there. Richardson says that human rights should be more important than security (Carter-esque) and gives his own laundry list of conditions for aid. Says that Islamists get 15% if the vote in Iran, so moderates should win in free elections. When asked if human rights are more important than security, he says yes, and talks about Halliburton for some reason. Edwards talks about reasonable goals for Iran, including elections and nuclear weapons. He says that the ad hoc approach of dealing with nuclear weapons will not work, and instead there should be a long term international effort to rid the world of nuclear weapon. Obama says that the concepts of human rights and national security are not contradictory. Dodd starts out with criticizing Bush, and says obviously national security is more important, and that balance is necessary to prevent Islamists winning across the Mideast. He does not want to condition aid, and terminating the relationship leaves the country more dangerous. Clinton agrees with Dodd, and criticizes Bush on Afghanistan and Pakistan. Clinton cites calling for a Pakistani envoy earlier in the year. Kucinich complains about not getting to answer as Blitzer ignores him.

8:53: Richardson is asked about the surge if it is working. He says body counts are pointless, and no benchmarks are being met. Says troops need to get out and a political agreement negotiated. He’s not clear how he would do that. Kucinich is asked the same, and talks about his record on Iraq. Then criticizes the Democrats for funding. Kucinich says on Pakistan that aggression on Iraq and Iran helped cause these problems. Obama talks about regional diplomacy and working towards a political solution. Saying that going from horrible to intolerable is not a justification for the surge.

8:58: Do people who voted to open trade from China bear responsibility for faulty toys? Kucinich says yes, and says China has massive problems. Kucinich attacks Edwards for opening trade from China, and that it hurt workers. Also attacks him for being a trial lawyer. Edwards says that America’s trade policy has been a disaster. Edwards tries to deflect the attack on the Clintons for passing NAFTA but not universal health care. Edwards says the mistake is not holding China responsible, but bringing them into the WTO is not the problem. Clinton is asked if Perot (???) was right on NAFTA. Says that investigations should be done to make sure things are safe, and if not, nothing should be brought in. Says NAFTA was a mistake to the extent it did not do what they thought it would. Reminder about time outs on trade are needed. Dodd jumps in and reminds about Obama and Clinton supporting the Peruvian trade deal. Dodd adds that he calls for action on China. Obama clarifies that he did not flip-flop on Peru, and distinguishes it from Korea or CAFTA. Compares America to Japan on China, and failure on that. Biden says that action can be done under the WTO, and action can simply be taken. Candidates are all wanting more time.

9:06: Yucca question, what to do with the waste. Obama says that there’s no reason for Nevada to be the reason to repository for waste, and science is working on other options. He then talks about his energy plan broadly. Blitzer follows up where the waste should go, and Obama says that Blitzer needs to stop making assumptions. Richardson says he was in charge of the labs Obama mentioned. Richardson says he opposed it all his life (despite voting for it at one point) and that he would turn Yucca into a research facility, and nuclear is not an option. Calls for an energy revolution.

9:12: Is Clinton playing the gender card? Clinton says she’s playing the winning card, not the gender card. And adds that it’s because she is winning, to applause. Follow up about what she meant about the ‘boys club’ she mentioned. She says there have been ‘impediments’ to women and a glass ceiling for women. Everyone is asked about if Clinton is playing the gender card. Edwards says differences should be brought up. Edwards mentions Clinton taking money from lobbyists, and the crowd boos.

That wraps up part 1 of the worst debate so far this year. Except for Clinton, probably, who’s attacking others and then riding high on incredible support inside the auditorium.

Part 2, questions from voters.

9:27: First question from a mother of someone who did three tours of duty in Iraq who wants the troops to come home now. How would people show leadership on Iran. Biden says that it’s important to take a stand, referencing Kyl-Lieberman and it was a mistake that convinced the rest of the Muslim world that America is against them. Blitzer asks Clinton about voting for the resolution. Says the fear about the resolution is baseless but does not elaborate at all, and says aggressive diplomacy with Iran is needed, to just get them to the table. Says that Iranian Nation Guard has killed soldiers in Iraq and sanctioning them is part of diplomacy. Edwards is asked about Clinton’s comments, and says that stopping Bush and Cheney is the crucial element. Obama says the problem with the vote was not just about declaring the group a terrorist, but that it also said that forces should remain in Iraq to blunt diplomacy. Obama is asked about missing the vote and says it was a mistake. Everyone thanked the soldier and his mother. Kucinich tries to get in and Blitzer ignores him.

9:32: Another question from a mother of someone serving in Iraq, about troops making significantly less than private contractors, and also wishing Richardson a happy birthday. Richardson says he pull out private contractors and enlarge the military. Also talks about health care cards for veterans and mental health care.

9:34: Racial profiling question from an Arab-American (he may not be Arab-American, which would be horribly ironic). Edwards asmits he voted for the Patriot Act, but it needs to be changed, and illegal spying needs to stop, and Guantanamo needs to be closed and torture ended. Kucinich says he voted against the Patriot Act because he read it. Kucinich says people who are profiled are owed an apology. Says that people are changing their position far too often, and impeachment needs to be done now. Biden says that nothing in the Patriot Act allows profiling, it’s just a convenient excuse. Biden says that the two leading candidates voted to fund Guantanamo, but the standard should be a plan now.

9:39: Question about Lou Dobbs linking terrorism and illegal immigration despite no terrorist coming from the southern border. Richardson first says he was not in Washington for many of these votes, and Congress’ approval rating is lower than Cheney’s. Talks about declaring a border emergency in New Mexico, but it’s time to stop demonizing immigrants. Talks about tougher diplomacy with Mexico and no fence among otherwise a very conventional comprehensive plan. Dodd responds in Spanish at first. Says that a fence in some places would make sense. Says that upholding rights and security is important.

9:42: Question from a grandmother who works in a casino, about what happens when the Baby Boomers retire en masse and what happens with Social Security and Medicare. Obama thanks the Culinary workers. Talks about fiscal discipline will help but not cure everything. Says adjusting the payroll tax cap will help with Social Security. On Medicare, says it is tougher because of health care inflation. Says a universal health care plan with prevention will save money and save Medicare. Clinton is asked by Blitzer about criticisms from Obama but ignores it and talks about fiscal discipline of the 1990s. Says a bipartisan commission will help. Says Obama’s plan is a one billion tax increase on the middle class. Compares the attack to Romney and Giuliani, playing with numbers, and just involves the top 6%. Clinton says that there are some in the middle class who are in that. Says Obama called for a bipartisan solution on MTP. Clinton is maintaining her composure far more than Obama tonight.

9:54: Dodd is asked about SCOTUS nominees. Dodd talks about a clear judicial record, not an academic, but not believing in litmus tests, although he feels strongly about Roe v. Wade. Biden refuses to just answer Blitzer’s question, and says he has taken on justices. Biden says he will nominate a woman next, and a right to privacy exists under the 14th Amendment. Richardson gives four questions he would ask, if that is a litmus test, so be it. Kucinich said he would have a litmus test on abortion, and he will lower the need for abortions. Clinton says any nominee would have to share her belief about privacy. Credits Biden on the issue. Obama says he would not appoint anyone who did not believe in a right to privacy, and that the Court is meant to protect the vulnerable in the political process. Edwards essentially agrees with Richardson, and cites Brown v. Board and the courage needed on the SCOTUS.

10:01: Obama is asked about uniting the country regarding the Middle East, but says he did not say that Clinton could not unite the country. Says that he would hold regular foreign policy meetings with Republicans and Democrats. Clinton is asked about being too polarizing, says she heard the same thing in New York. Says she will enlist the best of the best. Biden answers the question by talking about being respected in the Congress. Richardson talks about his record and his approach to Israel, including an envoy.

10:08: For Clinton: Diamonds or pearls? She says she wants both. Biden says he likes diamonds.

That’s all.

My quick rankings:

1. Clinton

2. Edwards

3. Biden

4. Obama
5. Dodd
6. Kucinich
7. Richardson

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Live Blog of AFL-CIO Democratic Candidate Forum on MSNBC

This is being moderated by Keith Olbermann and airs from 7:00 to 8:30 tonight EDT on MSNBC. Every Democratic candidate except Mike Gravel is participating.

6:53: The candidates parade in and greet Olbermann, as Tucker Carlson wraps up the pre-show with more talk of the decline of organized labor. Chris Matthews joins in and talks about what Edwards has at stake. The endorsement of labor could be the one thing that could help Edwards overcome the money deficit compared to Clinton and Obama. Matthews also talks about NAFTA and Bill Clinton pushing it through, talking more about Edwards talking points from yesterday’s speech. I’m pretty certain at this point that Matthews is for Edwards. Matthews talks about what it means for manufacturing to come back. Matthews points out that the winners in free trade are doing better than the losers. I’m blown away by this analysis.

6:59: Matthews seems bored.

7:00: And away we go from Soldier Field. Olbermann greets us, and hopefully his mother will not get hurt by an inadvertant jab. From left to right, Richardson, Obama, Biden, Clinton, Dodd, Edwards, and Kucinich. John Sweeney talks about the AFL-CIO and says nothing for minutes.

7:03: Back to Olbermann. It’s a multiple part debate with questions in the second part coming from labor members. A minute is spent talking about how little time they have.

7:04: Question for Dodd about what should not be funded to afford road reconstruction. Panders to the audience and then talks about cutting spending on Iraq and defense, specifically missle defense. Pretty liberal stuff from Dodd. Dodd is also screaming for some reason.

7:06: Clinton gets the second question on infrastructure. Clinton manages to thank everyone without pandering. She talks about building infrastructure, including ports. And how it affects homeland security. Links the bridge to Katrina and 9/11, and also mentioned digital infrascture.

7:08: Obama talks about security and repeats that he thinks America is not safer since 9/11, another shot at Clinton. Talks about Iraq being wrong and Al Qaeda rebuilding; gives the short version of his security speech. Says that would save enough money to make infrastructural changes others referred to.

7:10: Biden talks about infrastructural bill he sponsored in 1992. And talks about how many poor tunnels are on the east coast and need to be repaired as Clinton nods. Talks about the need to rebuild and put America back to work. Biden says he can’t wait to debate Giuliani on homeland security. Talks about the 9/11 commission not being funded.

7:12: Edwards gets his first question and thanks every single labor member in America. Edwards says the infrasctural change needs to happen and that its a question of who can do that. Edwards refers to lobbyist money and what he said at the YearlyKos forum (not really related to the question, but clearly another shot at Clinton).

7:14: Kucinich is asked if the government should build stadiums like Soldier Field. Kucinich says the approach should be to buy the team, not build the stadium. On infrastructure, Kucinich talks about a bill he has in Congress. Doesn’t really say what it does. Concludes by saying its time to get out of NAFTA and the WTO.

7:16: Obama is asked if he regreted supporting public financing of Soldier field. He says he does not, based on the jobs it created.

7:17: Bill Richardson is asked if selling toll roads is the answer. He says it is not. He then talks about his support from unions, making a joke about still taking their money (I found it humorous). He thne talks about building infrastructure and finding creative solutions.

7:18: How would Clinton fix NAFTA? Says its hurt American workers in the ‘way it was implemented.’ Doesn’t say who it was that implemented it poorly. Says that globalization should not be a race to the bottom, but lifting everyone up. Says Bush has not enforced trade agreements. Cites vote against CAFTA and voting against fast track authority for Bush. Says a source of new jobs through renewable energy is key.

7:20: Everyone else on NAFTA. Richardson says trade agreements need to acknowledge labor standards, and get rid of union busting attorneys. Obama says that NAFTA can be amended with labor standards. Calls for labor involvement in these agreements, and a president needs to be separated from corporate lobbyists. Another shot at Clinton, but he kind of rambles. Biden jokes about how much time Obama got, then says presidents need to create jobs… and then completely agrees with Obama. Dodd also agrees, but adds that jobs need to stay here. Dodd talks about banning outsourcing. He again touts (sort of in an over the top fashion) about being a union guy. Edwards says fix NAFTA, but says it was negotiated by insiders, not by people who understand labor. He then says he will never be on Fortune magazine being the candidate of corporations. Another big shot at Clinton. Kucinich says he would withdraw from NAFTA or the WTO. Ends by appealing for applause.

7:26: Clinton gets a response to Edwards and says she is ‘taking it all in.’ Touts her history fighting the right and says if anyone wants to win ‘I’m your girl.’

7:27: Obama is asked about cheaper products from globalization. Says jobs are more important than cheaper goods. Says it is a question of who the president is representing in trade. Says special interests are what needs to be checked.

7:28: Is China an ally or adversary? Richardson says a ’strategic competitor.’ Says its important to confront them on currency manipulation, workers rights, human rights, and the Sudan. But also points out common interests …. and is cut off for time. Obama says China is a competitor and needs to be confronted when necessary, and also China can’t be America’s bankers. Biden says China ‘holds the mortgage on our house.’ Says America is in debt almost a trillion dollars to China. Clinton agrees with Biden and takes the time to tout the Clinton surplus of the 90s. Also talks about tougher standards for food as she ends with raising her voice to a yell. Dodd says competitor, but to not delude ourself with ignoring the Chinese military buildup. Says its important to get access to Chinese shelves. Edwards agrees with everyone, and human rights abuses. Edwards talks about Chinese toys getting recalled and getting country of origin labelling. Kucinich says that MFN status was the time. He also says America dug a hole to China.

7:36: If you withdraw from Iraq and Al Qaeda takes over, what then? Richardson talks his plan for withdrawing and ends up talking about greenhouse gases. Obama says the only way is prevention and bringing the fight to where Al Qaeda is in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Biden says his detailed plan is the solution to prevent America from having to go back to Iraq. Clinton touts her three point plan to get out of Iraq, including putting pressure on the Iraqi government. Also says a diplomatic effort is key, but fighting Al Qaeda whereever is key. Dodd talks about remember the troops fighting. Dodd talks about a slow withdrawal and then says diplomacy is key. Says we should not sell arms to Saudi Arabia if they are not supporting us in Iraq. Edwards says an immediate partial withdrawal and regional stability. Talks about planning for the possibility but does not really say what his plan is. Kucinich talks about withdrawing forces and cutting funding. He completely ignores the question, bu tin fairness they all seemingly did.

7:43: Obama is asked how long it took for him to decide how to vote on the war spending bill. He said it was difficult and it’s important to start bringing thme out responsibly, but says he wanted the troops funded. Says that unless minds of Republicans are changed, nothing can be done on Iraq, and that is what he was worried about. Clinton gets the same question, and it is noted that she voted after Obama. She says the war is George Bush’s war, and says it wsa important to send a message to Republicans, and it was a tough vote because she didn’t want to hurt the troops.

7:45: Dodd is asked about his ‘confusing and confused’ statements about what Obama said. Dodd said that while Musharraf is no Jefferson, he’s the only thing preventing Pakistan from being an Islamist nuclear state, Strongly disagrees with Obama. Obama gets a follow up and says that those who are criticizing him made the biggest foreign policy blunder of our lifetime. Says Dodd did not read his speech and says that it’s common sense to act on Al Qaeda intelligence. Obama gets cut off for time, but gets a rousing line of applause. Clinton criticizes Obama for speculating on hypotheticals (but does not say why). Clinton says its wrong to telegraph this action, even if its the right action, because it hurts Musharraf. Says you should not say everything you think… and gets heavy boos for it. Dodd talks about his mistake on the Iraq vote in 2002 but says it has nothing to do with unilateral action in Pakistan. Obama clarifies what he said and talks about working with Pakistan first, and that the biggest threat to America is in northwest Pakistan. More candidates try to jump in, but instead, it’s another commercial break.

7:54: The wife of a mining accident victim last year refers to the Utah accident, and asks what would the candidates do to improve security. Biden says to implement mining safety measures brielfy, but spends most of his time saying its already the policy of America to go into Pakistan if there is actionable intelligence. He gets booed.

7:57: What can be done to restore rights of workers to form a union. Kucinich touts his membership in the AFL-CIO, and say union membership is a basic right.

7:58: Question to Richardson from an Iraq war veteran who lost his job when it was outsourced. Richardson shows good command by knowing where that town is (Newton, IA). Richardson says there’s a need to fully fund veteran health especially with Iraq and Afghanistan. Also says he would give a health care card so veterans can get care anywhere.

8:00: Question for Dodd, why his daughter who is fighting in Iraq had to buy her own armor and spend double the amount of time deployed. Dodd touts his time in the national reserves in the 1960s. Dodd attacks Republicans in the Senate for blocking reform on the issue.

8:01: Question for Edwards from someone who lost his pension and health care when LTV went under. Large applause from those attending, including Edwards and all the candidates. Edwards says its emblematic with what is wrong with America. He says that pensions need to be protected, and there needs to be universal health care so it does not have to be bargained. Says that America needs to understand how important labor is and he can do that. Touts his experience on the picket line. Olbermann tries to interrupt, Edwards objects and gets a laugh. That was his chance and he said everthing he had to say.

8:04: Question for Clinton on pensions. Says that bankrupcy can not be an escape from pensions. Touts her and Dodd’s reforms on mine reform. Says she would sign employee free choice act. It’s hard for me to escape how much she is yelling .She concludes by touting her support from the NY AFL-CIO.

8:05: A citizen who was an immigrant from Argentina who is asked about a path to citizenship for illegal immigrants. Says employers are taking advantage of workers, but that a pathway to citienship is possible, but must be earned through waiting and paying a fine. Finishes with talking about working with former LTV workers when it closed, after agreeing with Edwards that its important to look at where someone has been.

8:08: Biden is asked about nurse shortages. Biden talks about getting 100,000 new horses, and the need to insure children and catastrophic accidents while working for universal health care plan. Biden concludes with a long and loud look at his record. Seems to be a sharp attack on Edwards for walking on picket lines while running for president. Is Biden Clinton’s attack dog?

8:10: Kucinich talks about his health care plan.

8:11: Edwards responds to Biden by referring to walking 200 picket lines. Talks about what he believes in America - pensions and union rights and no scabs. General stuff. Edwards admits not much organized labor is from North Carolina, but adds again that it is important to tell America about unions. Biden tries to jump in, and is booed again.

8:13: Question for Dodd about how to make companies invest in energy. He talks about health care, and gets booed for going off topic. He then talks about his energy plan, mentioning specifics. Nothing he says excites the crowd at all.

8:15: Question for Clinton. Talks about green technology and education, specifically curriculum reform.

8:20: Job description for VP. Richardson says it would not be Dick Cheney but someone who can step in. Clinton is asked about her statement about lobbyists, but why do they make so much money. She talks at length about reform in Washington, avoiding the question. Then talks about fighting against special interests her whole life, and her record speaks for itself. Obama is asked about lobbyists bundling for him. Obama says federal registered lobbyists do not bundle for him. And that he’s running for working people. Edwards draws a dinstinction, and calls wht lobbyists fdo as bribing and says it needs to end. Says the Democratic party has to stand up. Biden is asked if he would appoint a Republican to run the DoD or DHS. Says he would consider it if people across the aisle were reasonable. Was the Dept. Homeland Security a good idea in retrospect with no terroist attacks on US soil since 9/11. Says America is not safer because of people in Iraq and Afghanistan. Says terror is a tactic not a philosophy. Also cited the right to organize, which was controversial when DHS was created. Kucinich when asked what the Democratic Congress has done, says he is trying to lead Congress, not follow, citing bills he sponsored. Obama is asked if he would honor Barry Bonds. Obama joked about Bonds taking a while, and says that he met Hank Aaron and that there’s enough cynicism in sports. Obama declines to answer when pushed. Clinton is asked about Katrina (talk about night and day in terms of toughness of questions after the Bonds one), and talks about rebuilding New Orleans. Biden is asked if he would end no bid contractsand simply says yes.

8:29: Is the presidential race too long? Richardson says yes, but its important to bring the country together. Says he represents change, experience, and electability. Obama says campaigns are too long and cost too much and are affected too much by insiders. Says it is important to mobilize for change. Biden says he would not be bothered, and its only starting early because of frustration with Bush. Clinton says she would be too busy to notice, working on health care (which she previously promised would be done by the end of her second term). Uses the broom and vacuum cleaner line to clean washington. Dodd points out that if this were a parliamentary system, George W. Bush would be gone. Concludes with an appeal for America to work. Edwards talks about public campaign finance reform. Edwards then talks about the man who could not speak for 50 years because he could not an afford an operation. Concludes with talking abou tconfronting the drug companies. Kucinich says he is the Seabiscuit of this campaign who is going ot scare off competitors. Funny, but only funny because he will not win. Kucinich is basically a parody of himself at this point.

And that’s it.

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Press Released: Week of June 18-24

Press Released will cover press releases over the past week that may have gotten overlooked in the media cycle. It’s not meant to be complete, but should be comprehensive including any release relating to national politics.

Barack Obama

In what is probably the most important release this week, Obama listed all of the earmarks he requested for this years budget, challenging others to do the same. Ipol already has a good write-up of it here.

Obama released a statement on democratic activist Aung San Suee, who is imprisoned in Burma.

Obama released a statement on clean burning coal, which he said still needed more research before it could be used safely in lieu of the ‘climate crisis.’ He issued another release later in the week saying the energy bill was a “modest first step” towards addressing the crisis.

Obama called for the Employee Free Choice Act to be passed. His campaign issued a statement of his about Nevada Culinary Workers Union settling their contract with Harrah’s.

Obama released a statement that praised The Higher Education Access Act for taking his recommendations, including recommendations to better fund primarily black colleges.

Obama issued a release about the strong ethics reforms he is pushing with Russ Feingold. This was a day before he made the announcement of the strict ethics reforms he would institute if elected President.

Obama joined with Chuck Hagel and Sherrod Brown to sponsor a bill that would improve services for blind veterans.

The Obama campaign announced the participants in the Dinner with Barack.

Bill Richardson

Richardson issued a statement on the actions of the New Mexico Senators regarding the Energy Bill.

Richardson issued a statement on Gay Lesbian Bisexual & Transgender Pride Month.

Richardson issued some press releases honoring the South Carolina firefighters who died.

Richardson said he was pleased the North Koreans have so far kept the promises they made to him when he visited in April.

Richardson called for all troops to be brought home from Iraq.

Christopher Dodd

Dodd hailed the unanimous passage of Head Start funding.

Dodd issued a press release regarding his introduction of legislation to further help the Gulf Coast recover from Katrina.

Dodd and Sen. Shelby introduced legislation to attempt to fix the currency crisis with China.

Dodd teamed with Ted Stevens tto introduce a bill that would give 8 weeks of paid leave for “workers needing time off due to the birth or adoption of a child, to care for a child, spouse or parent with a serious illness or to care for their own serious illness.”

Dodd is upset that Sen. Coburn put a hold on a bill with broad bipartisan support that would provide additional funding for civil rights crimes still unsolved. He wrote an op-ed with Rep. John Lews this week as well.

Dodd issued a release calling for greater pressure to be put on Sudan to stop the genocide in Darfur.

Dennis Kucinich

Kucinich was upset that Congress voted Iran in violation of the 1948 Convention on Genocide because of Ahmadinejad’s comments that Israel must be destroyed; he said Ahmadinejad’s comments were similar to what Pres. Bush has said on Iran and Iraq.

Kucinich and Rep. Waxman asked the SEC to slow down the offering of Blackstone LP.

Kucinich touted that he and Michael Moore were on the same page regarding health care. He issued a separate release of Moore endorsing his health care plan.

Kucinich issued a release criticizing the laxing of labor laws in New Orleans following Katrina.

Hillary Clinton

Clinton received endorsements this week in New York, New Jersey, California, Arkansas, Washington, New Hampshire, Nevada, and Michigan.

Clinton called for the passage of the Employee Free Choice Act.

Clinton held a tree planting ceremony to symbolize the need for alternative energy in western New York.

Clinton called on the Bush administration to provide answers as to the air quality after 9/11.

Clinton called on the Dept. of Homeland Security to make the northern border more secure.

Clinton wrote her NY constituents a letter regarding her position on the Iraq war.

Clinton was pleased at th reforms of student loans passed by the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee.

Clinton is among the co-sponsors of a bipartisian health IT bill.

Joe Biden

Biden also urged passage of the Employee Free Choice Act.

Biden announced support in New Hampshire, and the National Coordinator of Veterans for Biden.

Biden issued a scathing response to an anonymous attack by the Obama camp on his appearance at the funeral of the SC firefighters.

Biden introduced a bill that would address the Iraqi Refugee crisis.

Biden called for a new foreign policy strategy for dealing with Russia.

Biden issued a press release regarding National Clean Beaches Week.

John Edwards

Edwards issued a statement on Gen. Petraeus’s comments on Iraq.

Edwards urged passage of the Employee Free Choice Act.

Edwards commented on the death of the South Carolina firefighters.

Edwards issued a statement reagarding the report of the Army Corps of Engineers report on New Orleans.

As part of his renewed campaign to ‘build one America’, Edwards promised to take on abusive lenders and to reduce debt.

Duncan Hunter

Like Barack Obama, Hunter also released a list of the earmarks he proposed in the current Appropriations bill, and deserves credit for that.

Hunter criticized the cross-border trucking program with Mexico.

Fred Thompson

Fred Thompson has a blog on his official site where commentaries he gives elsewhere are often cross posted.

Jim Gilmore

Gilmore wrote a letter to President Bush suggesting a middle ground between the status quo and withdrawal on Iraq.

Mike Huckabee

Huckabee received an endorsement from the Home School Legal Defense Association.

Mitt Romney

Romney announced endorsements in Massachusetts, Nevada, Iowa, and Montana.

Romney unveiled his ‘Global Initiative For Values And Freedom’ which focuses on broad strategies to combat the jihadist threat.

Romney launched a new TV ad.

Newt Gingrich

Gingrich cited 9/11 Commission report in touting he was right in that several 9/11 hijackers were in the US illegally.

Ron Paul

Paul had a column up this week about the inevitable failure of earmarks i the appropriations bill that waste billions of dollars.

Paul issued a press release regarding his support for a wall and opposition to amnesty or any benefits for illegal immigrants.

The Paul campaign is upset regarding Paul’s exclusion from a candidate forum in Iowa sponsored by the Iowans for Tax Relief and Iowa Christian Alliance.

Rudy Giuliani

Giuliani issued a press release regarding the air quality at Ground Zero, quoting numerous sources indicating the air was safe.

Giuliani’s campaign issued a statement touting their position in the race; we discussed this a bit during this week’s podcast.

Giuliani is in favor of making all earmark requests public. This is what Hunter and Obama have done already. He issued a second release on the topic earlier in the week, and a statement by Steve Forbes to the same effect.

Giuliani announced endorsements in Florida, New York, and a replacement of his campaign chairman in South Carolina, who is taking over for Mark Ravenal, about whom the campaign denied knowing any information..

Giuliani announced his economic policy board.

Giuliani issued a statement on Bush’s nomination of Jim Nussle as the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.

Sam Brownback

Brownback commemorated World Refugee Day.

Brownback opened his office in Ames at the conclusion of his bus tour, which he called a big success.

Tom Tancredo

Tancredo touted an amendment the House passed that would enhace ties between Taiwan and America.

Tancredo’s campaign distributed a pledge against amnesty to members of Congress and urged them to sign it.

Mike Bloomberg

Text of the speech of Mike Bloomberg at the “Ceasefire! Bridging The Political Divide” conference.

This is the press release Bloomberg issued after changing his political affiliation to independent.

Technical note: all language I use to describe a release is what the candidate uses or what I judge to be the most accurate way of describing the candidate’s position; if a candidate calls global warming the ‘climate crisis’ I will use that; if they call it ‘alleged global warming’ I will do the same.

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