Mike Gravel Sues Pro-Clinton 527

Mike Gravel’s campaign announced today that he has filed suit against the American Leadership Project, which is an independent pro-Clinton 527. The American Leadership Project plans to about $10 million on television ads, like this one, in Texas, Ohio and Pennsylvania. The group has already received a complaint to the FEC filed by supporters of Barack Obama. An official from ALP, Roger Salazar describes the group as follows:

The American Leadership Project is a committee of Americans who have come together to shine a backlight on issues that matter most to our nation’s middle class and do it in a positive way. These are positive ads that serve to raise awareness about these issues at a critical time in our nation’s history and in places where they are paying the most attention. Right now that’s Ohio and Texas. Sen. Clinton is a champion of these issues. ALP supports her positions and we say so in the ads.

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Why Kucinich’s Debate Exclusion Is OK

This is probably our last exclusive Kucinich post until he drops out, for what its worth, but he’s complaining about being excluded from tonight’s debate. The criteria included finishing in the top four in Iowa, or being above 5% in a national or New Hampshire poll. Kucinich complained, sending out the following press release shortly ago:

As complaints keep pouring in to ABC News regarding the network’s decision to exclude Ohio Congressman Dennis Kucinich from tonight’s Democratic Presidential debate, the most recent data from ABC and co-sponsor Facebook show Kucinich ahead of New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, who was invited to participate.

Kucinich, according to Facebook’s own figures, ranks fourth in popularity among Facebook members. In the latest ABC News Poll, Kucinich ranked ahead of Richardson. And, Kucinich has won more than a dozen major on-line polls and post-debate surveys, including one conducted by ABC News.

First of all, Kucinich cites being ahead in a “ABC News Poll” but does not mention what poll that even was. The latest polls from Washington Post and ABC News poll contain no poll result either in Iowa or New Hampshire where Kucinich out polls Richardson, nor any poll where Kucinich breaks 5% either nationally or in New Hampshire.

Citing online polls are a joke; with apologies to Ron Paul supporters, they only measure a self-selected sample group and are not representative. They measure fervency of support for certain, but in no way breadth of support.

The standards for the debate tonight are fair; it is late in the election season and it is not the job of any news station to allow for miracles to happen, particularly with candidates who have campaigned for months and still have a negligible amount of support.

Kucinich says the criteria are arbitrary and has even filed a complaint with the FCC; they are arbitrary. But they are also fair and realistic.

I would say the same to Mike Gravel and Duncan Hunter, both of whom also are likely unhappy.

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2008Central.net’s Presidential Election Podcast (01/03/08)

This podcast covers the results of the Iowa Caucuses. We discuss the significance of Huckabee’s victory, the state of the Republican race after Iowa and we also dissect Obama’s victory and analyze the rest of the Democratic race.

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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Mike Gravel Declares Intention to Run As An Independent; Country Fails to Notice

Mike Gravel doesn’t want to go away:

“Hold out your hand, take your thumb and connect it to your little finger. What do you get,” Gravel asked his on looking audience. “A third party!” he answered.

“I’m running as a Democrat right now, and my string is going to run out in February. It’s already run out; I just don’t know it,” Gravel said to a small group of supporters. “If I want to stay in this election all of the way until next November, I will have to make a decision: ‘Will I go as a third party?’ Obviously you can figure that out.” The implication is that he will.

It’s one thing for an insurgent candidate catching fire to run as an independent; that would be understandable if Ron Paul decided to do so. Gravel seems to be doing so just to make a point. Unfortunately, he’s too rabid and difficult to understand for anyone not already supporting him to understand what that point is.

I would say we would miss him, but the debates have been far more substantial since he left.

On the bright side, unlike the apprentice, Gravel can drive his own taxi while leaving.

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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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2008Central.net’s Presidential Election Podcast (11/05/07)

This podcast covers the MSNBC Democratic debate in Pennsylvania. Specifically, we discuss (1) Hillary Clinton and immigration, (2) the styles of Obama and John Edwards, (3) how the campaign has progressed since the debate, (4) Biden and his quips and more…

[Note: audio problems have been corrected in this podcast...many thanks for your patience]

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 MSNBC Democratic Debate In Pennsylvania (October 30, 2007)

We are ready to go! The debate starts at 9pm EDT. It will air on both MSNBC and on MSNBC.com and will be moderated by Brian Williams with supplemental questions from Tim Russert. The debate is taking place at Drexel University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

8:05: Less than an hour to go. Currently working on getting some pictures from the press photo pool, although they’re usually just taking the preliminary pictures about now, so it may still be too early…

8:11: Candidates from left to right: Chris Dodd, Joe Biden, John Edwards, Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, Dennis Kucinich, Bill Richardson. And, if you’re just dying to know, Brian Williams is indeed “happy to be back in Philadelphia.”

8:52: Where in the World is Mike Gravel? Well, he’s having his own online debate here, which is being broadcast from a spot in Philadelphia, where he is protesting GE (owner of NBC) for censorship. Sorry, Mike, but one debate per night is enough for us. Who do we look like, leaders of the Florida Democratic Party?

9:02: Brian Williams introduces Drexel University by talking about the school’s mascot, Mario The Dragon.

9:03: First question to Obama about whether or not he’s going to get tough with Hillary Clinton. He gives a solid response about changing politics. Hillary’s rebuttal was sure to ignore the fact that Obama even spoke and to note that the criticism she receives from the right is ample evidence that she is very different from the right.

9:06: John Edwards makes a point to use a positive tone when asked about using the harshest rhetoric in the campaign against Clinton. Clinton responds by referring to her record in very generic terms, and refers vaguely to battles in the 90s. She’s referring more and more to the policies of the 90s, and she only does that when on defense.

9:08: Russert doesn’t let Hillary dodge the question and frankly asks her about her Iran policy. She adimately denies that the vote is a pretext for war. Clinton loses her cool a bit and sounds like the guy that flipped out on the Bobs in that movie, Office Space.

9:13: It’s Doddtime! Dodd calls for leadership and notes that although the Kyl-Lieberman amendment is not an overt pretext for war, the 76 votes in favor of it could be used down the line in order to pressure support for military action. Dodd notes that it was critical to oppose it in order to stop the trend.

9:14: Biden says, the president already had the authority to do everything that amendment called for and contends that the real harm in passing the amendment was that it feeds into the negative impressions of the United States abroad. Says it was a bad foreign policy. Ultimately, Dodd and Biden frame their answers on Kyl-Lieberman in a way that significantly hurts Clinton and adds credence to the attacks that Obama and Edwards have been laying.

9:15: Obama is asked about attacking Iran, and says it should not be the focus or the concern, and focuses on diplomacy while referencing the points Dodd and Biden made. He eventually concedes that should Iran be on the verge of acquiring a nuclear weapon that war would be an option.

9:17: Clinton notes that the amendment didn’t give Bush any special powers. Calls for action on Sen. Jim Webb’s legislation, which explicitly requires the President to get approval from congress before taking military action in Iran. somehow claims to agree with Biden on Iran, even though he spent his whole time criticizing her.Clinton reiterates that she will not let Iran get nuclear weapons, stresses diplomacy and economic sanctions. Specifically, she mentions economic sanctions in regards to Libya and North Korea but does not mention the elephant in the room with sanctions - Iraq.

9:20: Edwards asks the obvious question of why Clinton voted for the resolution if she’s as demanding for diplomacy as she claims. Edwards goes on to chide Democrats for not standing up to the Bush administration. I imagine that’s a lot easier to do when you’re not in the Senate any longer.

9:22: Kucinich gets to speak. Invokes Article 2 Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution and calls for the impeachment of President Bush.

9:24: Russert asks for a pledge to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear bomb. Hillary pledges that she will do everything she can do to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon, John Edwards says he would take every responsible notion. Obama notes that all of them likely want to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon, says “let’s short circuit this” and begins talking about the politics of fear and how they impact foreign policy and erode civil liberties. Biden pledges to keep the U.S. safe and notes that “it is complicated stuff” (because, stuff really demonstrates just how complex it really is). Biden goes on to put things into perspective and says that there are other more immediate problems that need to be considered when considering Iran. Dodd talks about experience and says Pakistan is more immediate problem. Richardson takes the bate and pledges to ensure that Iran does not get a nuclear, then points to his experience in foreign diplomacy. He points to one of the hostages from Iraq whom he negotiated the release for (during the 90s, not now). Kucinich asks the media to be more cautious with their rhetoric; calls for nuclear nonproliferation.

9:32: Hillary Clinton opposes the Iraq War, but not the soldiers (duh). Says that there is no military solution and that she will begin withdrawal as soon as she takes office. Clinton criticizes Bush for only relying on a small group of people for advice (Pot, meet Kettle, he’s black too).

9:35: Edwards draws a dichotomy: ‘If you believe that combat missions should continue in Iraq, if you believe that there should be no timetable for withdrawal’ then you should support Clinton; but if you want the combat missions to end within the first year (so he won’t immediately stop them?) and if you want the troops out then you should support Edwards. Edwards criticizes Clinton for her general election strategy and says that there should only be one type of rhetoric, the truth as opposed to rhetoric for the primary and rhetoric for the general election.

9:38: Clinton clarifies the combat missions critique. Notes that she will have a responsible withdrawal and that troops will remain to protect our embassy and pusue al-Qaeda. Says that combat missions will continue in a limited way so that soldiers can defend themselves while the withdrawal is occurring.

9:43: And we’re back, Hillary gets her 9th opportunity to speak. This time it’s to respond to Giuliani’s recent critique that she is inexperienced. Clinton says, “the Republicans and their constant obsession with me demonstrates that I am communicating effectively what I will do.” Clinton speaks broadly about what she will bring. Clinton one ups Obama’s catchphrase of turning the page by saying that she wants to “throw the whole book away.” Good metaphor.

9:44: Russert follows up. Asks if Clinton will the national archives to release Sen. Clinton’s communications as first lady with then president Clinton. Clinton says that the archives are moving as quickly as they can. Russert asks about a letter written by Bill Clinton requesting that specific records not be released until 2012. Hillary dodges, not even mentioning Bill’s letter.

9:45: Obama says that Republicans are “obsessed with Hillary” because that is fight that they are comfortable with and one that they are used to fighting. Goes on to say that it is precisely the reason why he should be the nominee because if she is elected partisan bickering will prevail for the next 8 years, whereas he has an opportunity to transcend it.

9:46: Edwards follows Obama with a nonsensical response. Mentions Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy and asks, “Will America Be Fine?” if a Democrat who can bring change is not elected.

9:50: Hillary responds to the criticism by saying that progress was being made in the 90s and hits a home run by saying “change is just a word if you don’t have the strength and experience to make it happen.”

9:52: Obama asked about his specific experience. He cites a few things. I can’t help but think the other candidates must be frustrated by their lack of attention.

9:54: Richardson gets a turn. Cites some differences with Clinton but resorts the same old, “Look, I’m a Governor…” line.

9:55: Dodd is asked about his recent criticism of Hillary’s electability. He doesn’t really explain why she isn’t electable. Edwards gets a follow up and talks about Clinton’s lobbying.

9:58: Kucinich gets his.

10:00: Biden says he is not running against Hillary Clinton, that is he running to be the leader of the free world. He then launches a strong attack against Rudy Giuliani. Criticizes him for not having foreign policy experience and delivers his first YouTube moment, saying: “There’s only 3 things he [Rudy Giuliani] mentions in a setence…a noun, a verb and 9/11.” Biden then turns to Richardson and reminds him that he’s the one on the stage with the most experience, talks about things he was doing in the 70s, then says another great line: “maybe I’ve been around too long that you’ve forgotten all the good things that I’ve done.”

10:05: Russert challenges Hillary on an apparent difference between her private and public positions on social security taxes. As an aside, Russert’s questions can basically be boiled down to: ‘you’re a hypocrite….why?’

10:06: Obama says that it’s common sense that something needs to be done about Social Security and says that of the options available raising the cap on social security is the best one of the options available. Returns to politics in general and says that the problem is ultimately that candidates are afraid to discuss good ideas that are on other side of the political spectrum and says that he is not afraid to embrace good ideas.

10:10: Obama responds to concerns about swift boating by saying that when he was running for Senate, he was told it wasn’t going to end well because no one would vote for a “black guy named Obama.” Says that what matters is dealing with the swift boat ads fast and strong.

10:12: Break time. It’s worth noting that Ron Paul spammers have completely taken over the chat room for Mike Gravel’s protest debate. *sigh*

10:15: And we’re back. This time with a rule change - enforced 30 second responses.

10:17: Chris Dodd responds to a question about the price of oil by plugging his website. Biden’s response to the rising price of oil: “When you’re in a hole, stop digging.” Edwards says that Americans need to be willing to sacrifice and talks about the importance of conservation in dealing with oil prices.

10:22: Dodd talks about his call for a corporate carbon tax and overall energy independence plan. To his credit, Dodd rightfully points out that his plan is the most ambitious and comprehensive of any presidential candidate.

10:26: Russert asks Sen. Clinton about Rangel’s proposal to change the Alternative Minimum Tax. Hillary says that she supports a better and more fair tax system (dodges the question really, other than to note that she doesn’t fully support Rangel’s plan), then launches into an attack on the Bush Administration and their tax breaks to the wealthy. Of note, earlier in Clinton’s response she said she didn’t know all the details, then later goes on to say that she disagrees with some of the details. Obama gets a shot to speak about taxes, rolling back the Bush tax cuts. The verdict: Democrats talking about taxes in a debate setting is painful.

10:31: Russert asks Kucinich about hedge funds and Harry Reid’s decision not to adjust the tax rates for hedge fund managers. Kucinich chides Democrats for not standing up to fight for fair taxes, for not standing up against the war and for not standing up against insurance companies. Concludes that in the status quo, people are confused about the difference between Democrats and Republicans.

10:34: We’ve entered the hyperbole portion of the debate…

10:35: Lighting Round!

10:36: Oversees students spend about 1 additional year in school than in the United States. Richardson believes the school year should be extended, underscores the gap and talks about better pay for teachers and getting rid of no child left behind.

10:39: Edwards responds to the education question by noting that there are two school systems in America (makes sense since it’s consistent with his campaign theme of two americas).

10:40: Biden hits a home run on the education question by giving a strong concise answer. He proposed extending the school year back in 1987 and observes that unless we believe our children on naturally brighter than children in the rest of the world, then we absolutely need to extend the school year.

10:46: In response to a question about medical care, Edwards talks about a nursing crisis in an obvious plea for more SEIU unions to endorse him.

10:50: Obama is asked about the awfulness of air travel. There’s no serious answer to this question and his flubbing of the response only demonstrates this.

10:52: Clinton is asked about New York’s plan to provide a license to illegal immigrants.  Clinton sinks herself, or drives off the road for a more apt metaphor.  We’ll deal with this issue in a specific post.

10:57: Russert asks Kucinich about his UFO sighting.  Kucinich says he did see a UFO and that it’s not that crazy.  Russert asks Obama whether he believes there is life on other planets, Obama says he doesn’t know, but knows that there is life here on earth and that as president, these are the people he’ll be tending to first.

10:59: Clinton is asked about whether she’ll fight focus on fight against cancer.  Obviously, Clinton notes that she will oppose cancer.

11:00: Edwards states that he opposes decriminalizing marijuana because it sends the wrong message.  Dodd replies that the reality is that too many people are being locked up in jail and that it’s important to get a lot smarter on the subject.

11:02: Asked about Halloween costumes, Obama says that he will likely wear a Mitt Romney mask (that has two sides to it that go in opposite directions).

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Preview Of MSNBC Democratic Debate In Pennsylvania (October 30, 2007)

Tonight, there will be a democratic debate on MSNBC from 9-11pm (eastern); it will also be simultaneously broadcast on MSNBC.com. Brian Williams will be moderating the debate and Tim Russert will also be asking questions.

The debate participants will be: Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton, Chris Dodd, John Edwards, Dennis Kucinich, Barack Obama and Bill Richardson. Mike Gravel will not be participating in this debate on account of not raising $1 million (the minimum amount required by MSNBC to participate in the debate); he has only raised a bit more than $379,000 to date. Mike Gravel is in Philadelphia, however, and will be conducting a live protest debate, where he will be responding to the questions and other candidate’s responses from the debate.

We’ll be live blogging the debate. So be sure to check in with us frequently once the debate starts.

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DNC Nullifying Florida Delegates: More Consequences

Following the DNC’s decision to nullify Florida’s delegates at the convention because of Florida’s early primary, the consequences start to become clear. A recent editorial in the St. Petersburg Times notes:

The latest Quinnipiac poll finds that 22 percent of Florida’s independent voters say they are now less likely to vote for a Democratic president because of the DNC’s shenanigans. In this still closely divided partisan environment, 22 percent is enough to turn Florida red - which is not the color Dean wants to see on the election map.

This editorial came during the 2007 Florida democratic convention, which was in many ways a disappointment due to the fact that the state party was unable to attract any democratic presidential candidates other than Mike Gravel. Even Mike Gravel partly snubbed the party by canceling his morning speech and move his originally scheduled afternoon speech to later in the evening.

Frustrations within the party were clear (prevalent but not omnipresent):

• Hundreds of party members skipped the convention to protest the DNC’s boycott on Florida.
• Sen. Bill Nelson, who has filed a lawsuit against the DNC for the nullification, noted: “This is unacceptable. Paying for political participation is unacceptable.”
• One party activist called for action, saying: “We should not be giving them [the Democratic candidates] one dime.”

These frustrations are underscored by GOP candidates aggressive showing in Florida. They debated in Orlando earlier this month and will be debating in St. Petersburg next month. And candidates are even directly challenging their Democratic rivals on the issue. Earlier this month, at a stop in Florida, Giuliani urged frustrated Democrats to switch parties and vote for him.

In a swing state as crucial and close as Florida, the consequences of the DNC’s decision to nullify Florida’s delegates extends beyond the concerns of political junkies and onto the radar of regular voters, who undoubtedly will vent their frustrations at the polls come the general election. This is not to suggest that the Democrats will automatically or likely lose Florida. However, there is no denying that: (1) Frustrated, moderate Democrats will be tougher to keep in the general election and (2) their general election efforts will be affected by the delayed start the Democratic candidate will have in setting up a Florida operation.

Related at 2008Central.net:

• On the Primary Shuffle… (10/22/07)
• Obama, Edwards, Richardson and Biden Pull Out Of Michigan Primary (10/9/07)

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2008Central.net’s Presidential Election Podcast (10/29/07)

This podcast covers: (1) Poll craziness - Hillary Clinton and Mitt Romney; (2) Romney’s speech on faith; (3) Obama ratcheting up pressure on Clinton; (4) Consequences in Florida for DNC; (5) Chris Dodd on Meet The Press; (6) Tom Tancredo is not running for re-election; (7) Kucinich, Richardson and UFOs; (8) Edwards brings the hammer on UNC student reporter; (9) Mike Bloomberg buying Google AdWords; (10) and 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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2008Central.net’s Presidential Election Podcast (10/14/07)

This week’s podcast covers: 1) Gore gets the nobel peace prize and what it means for presidential politics; 2) Republicans debate economic issues, Fred Thompson gets shut out of the campaign by Giuliani and Romney, McCain campaign still has some life left in it; 3) Barack Obama makes waves in Iowa, most Democrats pull out of the Michigan primary, Edwards and Richardson in Nevada; and 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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2008Central.net’s Presidential Election Podcast (10/07/07)

This podcast covers 1) preliminary fundraising figures, 2) the Ron Paul Effect, 3) Democratic National Committee and issues with Florida, Michigan and South Carolina, 4) Weekly Round Up.

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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Daily Links (August 23, 2007)

Today’s worthy reads….

• The long shots like Gravel, Kucinich, and Paul (et. al) have something to add to the race, and someone should let George Stephanopoulos know.
• Chris Dodd is getting kudos for his meeting with Bernanke and Paulson.
• Mitt Romney has a 16 point lead in Iowa, while there is a virtual three way tie among the top three Democrats. A separate Zogby poll gives Romney a 19 point lead in Iowa. according to the latest polling.
• Romney is launching an initiative on health care this weekend, but TPM Election Cafe flashes back to his comments on Ted Kennedy when he signed the bill: “Senator Kennedy: Together, we pitched the secretaries on our vision to insure all our citizens, and on the need for federal support to make the vision real. His work in Washington and behind the scenes on Beacon Hill was absolutely essential.”
• Boxers or briefs for the new generation.
• A complimentary look at how the Democrats discussed religion in the last debate.
• Rudy Giuliani says he can win California outright; Illinois too.
• Giuliani is also escalating his activities in New Hampshire, where many voters are flocking to him instead of McCain or Romney.
• The mortgage crisis and pension worries will likely make finances a critical issue in the coming election. Finally, something goes Dodd’s way.
• Duncan Hunter made some headlines for the first time in a while by holding a pres conference to decry the slow progress being made on the border fence.
• Abortion is a niche issue now, but for those for whom it is an issue, it is often the only issue.
• Mike Huckabee knows how to talk to people on the trail. Look at the analogy he uses when talking about health care.



• VP Alert: Jim Webb gave a speech in New Hampshire.
• Michigan this early could dramatically affect the election in ways no one really knows yet.
• A belated review of Fred Thompson’s “At That Point in Time,” which details his work on the Watergate Committee.
• There is some speculation that the primary schedule could be dramatically different in 2012. The moves of Florida and Michigan are likely forcing the hand in that direction.
• Is Joe Biden getting the attention he deserves to be getting? If his Iraq plan continues to drive the Iraq conversation, he probably is. If not, then probably not.
• Mitt Romney is changing some minds (in a good way) with the way he talks about contraception, which is the lynchpin issue regarding abortion in many ways. Fred Thompson is criticiized for his lobbying for a contraceptive company, while other conservatives talk as much about contraception as they do abortion. The article is an op-ed by a pro-choice writer, but still has some valuable insights into the pro-life vote.
• And finally, perhaps we now have hard proof that Obama is black enough. (And please don’t take that too seriously )

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American Indian Presidential Forum Attracts Only 3 Candidates

Today’s “Prez On The Rez” forum may be an historic event for the American Indian Community, but try telling that to presidential candidates. The forum will bring together Democratic candidates and hundreds of tribal leaders from across the country. However, the candidate turnout is sure to be a disappointment for the American Indian community; only three candidates will appear at today’s forum: Bill Richardson, Dennis Kucinich and Mike Gravel.

The lackluster showing is causing some concern within the community:

“If they won’t come talk to us now, they certainly won’t be responsive to us if they get in the White House,” said Kalyn Free, a Choctaw from Oklahoma who is organizing the Democratic forum, called “Prez on the Rez.”

Adding to their frustrations, I’m sure, is the fact that later this week Hillary Clinton and John Edwards (along with Bill Richardson and Dennis Kucinich) will be participating in Lance Armstrong’s presidential cancer forum. It’s fair to criticize the major candidates for not participating in Prez On The Rez forum, however, it’s also important to keep in mind that the Prez On The Rez forum is being held in southern California. From a political perspective, it’s just bad planning to hold an event in an area where candidates a) don’t need to visit at this time and b) is so far away from the places that they need to visit. Armstrong’s event on the other hand is in Iowa, making it easier for candidates to fit an appearance into their schedule.

As far as I’m concerned, the other Democratic candidates should have attended the event regardless of where it is (especially those candidates that focus on poverty), but their lack of attendance is somewhat understandable given the poor political planning of the event.

I’ll follow up with coverage of the event later today.

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2008Central.net’s Presidential Election Podcast (08/19/07)