Music Can Change the World

I'm just lazy

2009-07-29T21:28:00.003-06:00

Oh hai blog peeples! UR still here?

Weird...

So....yeah....blogging. Once upon a time, I had oodles amounts of time to blog AND actually had things to blog. I could make all kinds of excuses as to why I haven't blogged in a gazillion years (like, I've been busy with work, volunteering, starting my own business or that I've been too focused on watching all of Battlestar Galactica) but really, it just comes down to me being lazy. Well, that and global warming. Let's blame all our problems on global warming!

Anywho, I really am going to blog more. Really! To show you how serious I am, I will give you a list of things I have thought about, started writing, or twittered about blogging:

Sarah Palin (shocking, I know)
Gay rights (even more shocking, I KNOW)
Kiss-in's (not to be confused with Kiss-ing)
"A Guide on How to Ruin a State in Just 18 Months" by G. Herbert
Why I gave this blog the title I did (which will introduce nicely my blog on...)
Watchmen (the movie, specifically, not the graphic novel)

I may come up with other things over the next few weeks but I feel this is a nice, slow start to get me back into the blogging regularly. I know the 2 & 1/2 readers left are as excited as me about these thoughts. I won't let you down!

Yet...

Hot, Flat & Crowded

2009-03-27T22:52:00.000-06:00

(Author's note: I wrote this the day after seeing Thomas Friedman but for whatever reason, forgot to publish it).

The other night I attended the lecture of one of my most favorite journalists, Thomas Friedman. It was well worth the $10 and even though I forgot my book to have him sign, it was still a memorable time.

Most people know Friedman from his column in the New York Times but I much prefer his books. In The World is Flat, he talks about the benefits of globalization to the United States and other countries world wide. My strong support of globalization makes me a bad Democrat, I've been told; but those who told me probably never read this book.

In his new book, Hot, Flat & Crowded, Friedman discusses how, because more and more people around the world are becoming more like Americans, our world is literally becoming hot, flat and crowded.

Hot, because of the very serious and very real threat on our world of global warming. Friedman joked that Al Gore needed to write the first sentence of his Op-ed on global warming as: "I'm sorry. I was wrong. Global warming isn't happening as I said in my movie. It's happening MUCH more quickly."

Flat, because more and more people around the world are becoming "middle class." They are becoming more like us Americans, specifically our middle class. The larger this group becomes, the more resources we will use more quickly which leads to...a increase in global warming.

Crowded, because of a serious increase of the world's population. The more people, the flatter and hotter it becomes.

Friedman discussed the solutions to these problems and fears that people just don't care enough to change. That, and because our culture almost forces us to make things as easy and as cheap as possible. His argument is that saving the world isn't easy. It can be cheap, in the long run, but we must be committed for the long haul.

One of the major solutions, Friedman argues, is that we need to seriously reduce our dependence on foreign oil (surprise!) and invest our time and energies (literally) into new Energy Technology (ET). His theory is that the country that first develops the best, most cost efficient and practical ET's will become the new Superpower (my word, not his). America has long been the leader in new ideas, technology and ideologies. This won't last long the more our world becomes hot, flat & crowded, however.

Our economy is already seriously strained so could you imagine if another country (Japan or India) were to come up with new ET's and suddenly jobs and money WORLDWIDE will all be funneled to them? What would our country end up looking like?

There is a lot to think about after reading any of Friedman's books. Listening to him inspired me and I only hope I can actually do enough to help.

But I guess all revolutions happened with single people all working together.

where have i been

2009-01-26T00:31:00.000-07:00

I was only chastised for a moment on Inauguration night because I don't blog anymore. But I do have good reasons so here I am, sharing them with you.

First, I lack internet at home. Yes, I could purchase it, but i'm much too lazy after years of using "free" wireless. The fact that I had to move recently also has not helped my blogging efforts. I'm typing this on my BlackBerry which is not easy. Also, I no longer can blog at work. I actually have a job WHERE I DO WORK. Crazy, huh??

Second, I have found myself apathetic about politics. Like any good politician, i'm full of shit. I realized in September that I have worked for so long and got nothing in return. Because I never did anything for myself, I ended up getting screwed. I have long encouraged people from all walks of life to become engaged in the political process but have found myself over the last few months stepping farther and farther from it.

Third, i'm not seeing any real change. Yes, I was ecstatic on Tuesday and even cried a little bit. But the excitement didn't come until late Monday night. I've been searching for about a month now for an editorial cartoon by the Trib's Pat Bagley that showed 2 rabid Obama supporters wondering where the change is. His appointments are less than thrilling. Yes they are 1000% times better than Bush's people and yes they'll do an amazing job, but they are establishment people; Clintonites and real Washington insiders. I didn't support Hillary because she WAS the machine. I expected more from Obama and couldn't help but feel a little bit betrayed.
The tipping point for me was...

Fourth, the decision to terminate the 50 State Strategy. We Democrats have a problem: we're too busy playing defense that we never have time to play offense. Under Dean's leadership, we stuck it to them. We won in places (like Utah) where it wasn't possible to win before because of the massive grassroots efforts of the 50 State Strategy. This strategy worked. It was a huge factor in getting President Obama elected. I knew Hillary would have dismantled the project as soon as she was the nominee but I never expected this from Obama.

2008 was a great year for Democrats up and down the ticket (except for here in Utah but I'll get into that in another post). Barack Obama helped, but the groundwork was laid by state and county parties across this country. Full time, paid staffers in every state was a hard pill for many to swallow but they gave it a chance and by God, IT WORKED!

I've expressed these feelings with many friends who just don't understand. I know how hard it is to run a party and I know that it's not done by just one person. The beauty of the 50 State Strategy is that it required and demanded the help of everyone who cared about taking their country back. The decisions weren't left up to the party elders anymore. It gave people a reason to care about politics again and helped them see the Democratic Party was no longer sitting on the sidelines. We, as a party, stood up and fought back.

I worry about the future of our party. Our country is in very capable hands, just like it was when President Clinton was in charge. But look what happened after him. That was our fault--we were too busy playing defense and had no time for the offense.

I can't care anymore. I spent too much time and energy and sacrificed a big part of my life caring about the party.

I love being a Democrat and will always be one. Seriously though, we need to pull our heads out.

President Obama

2009-01-20T15:26:00.000-07:00

Sounds pretty nice, doesn't it?

My personal protest (2008 Election Thoughts, Part 3 of 3)

2008-11-08T13:37:00.002-07:00

The biggest disappointment to me in the 2008 Elections is the passage of California's Prop 8 (and those in Arizona and Florida). I expected the propositions in Florida and Arizona to pass but not California's. I mean, California is the liberal bastion of the West and ALWAYS bucks the political norm. They kick out their Governor every few years and elect MOVIE STARS for hell's sake! There was absolutely NO WAY, in my mind, that Prop 8 would pass. I became a viral campaigner by constantly posting things on Facebook, Twitter and a couple of blog posts here as to why Prop 8 should fail. I figured it was the least I could do since I couldn't physically go there and canvass or donate money. And today, I vow that my disappointment will be turned into action. I will fight alongside my GLBT friends and family until the fight is over.

I've had a few friends ask me why this issue means so much to me since I'm not gay myself and the only (and best) thing I can honestly come up with is this: It's not fair that I can get married to a man I love while my gay friends can not. You see, I can find any man off the street, take him down to the Clerk's office, and obtain a marriage license. But my gay friends who have been in a monogamous, committed relationship for YEARS can't. They live as married couples; a few even went to California to get married but because they love someone of the same gender, their relationship isn't recognized by the government as "valid." This completely breaks my heart and I don't want my daughter to live in a world where true equality does not exist.

I haven't written overtly personal posts on this blog because that is what my private blog is for. But this issue has made me realize why I am involved and why I care about politics the way I do. And I want the whole world to know my feelings. That is why, today, Saturday, November 8, 2008, I officially submitted my resignation to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (hereinafter referred to the Mormon Church or the Church).

I stopped believing in the Church when I was 12 years old. A big deal, as was recently pointed out to me. But as a dutiful daughter, I continued to go until I turned 18 when I left home. I briefly returned a few years later when I became pregnant but only to placate my mother. Now, almost 20 years later, I am ready to make a complete break.

When my friends started resigning from the Church a few years ago and encouraged me to do the same, I honestly didn't see much point. I mean, I didn't attend services anymore (with the occasionally baby blessing/baptism) and no longer believed ANYTHING they taught. I figured, why resign? The church's stance on Prop 8 helped solidify to me why I absolutely had to resign. You see, when the church talks about XXX million members, they were counting me in that number. So a church of XXX million members (including me) was supportive of Prop 8. I've seen what the church's teachings have done to my gay friends. I've seen them destroy families and preach hypocrisy. It is time for me to say no more being counted. While I don't believe the church's involvement is the sole reason Prop 8 passed, they certainly had a large hand in it. Below is the resignation letter I sent.

This letter is my formal resignation from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and it is effective immediately. I hereby withdraw my consent to being treated as a member and I withdraw my consent to being subject to church rules, policies, beliefs and 'discipline'. As I am no longer a member, I want my name permanently and completely removed from the membership rolls of the church.

My resignation should be processed immediately, without any 'waiting periods'. I am not going to be dissuaded and I am not going to change my mind. Also, I expect this matter to be handled promptly, with respect and with full confidentiality.

My decision to resign from the church began 20 years ago with the deciding factor being the church’s position on families. While the church teaches “Families Are Forever,” I have observed nothing but continual assaults on my family. It began when I saw the way local church leaders treated my parents when I was 12-years-old; it was so mean-spirited, we began going to another ward and my father turned inactive. At this time, I began to question my belief in all the teachings of the church, and not just those on compassion and loving thy neighbor.

The next experience occurred when I became an unwed mother at 21. The whispers behind my back (and in front of me) as well as ostracizing by church members only confirmed what I had learned on my own: that any family that did not conform to “Church Standards” was sub-par and not a real family.

However, the act by the church that has caused me to finally officially submit my resignation occurred this year when church leaders felt the need to attack people I consider to be my current family. The church’s long-held stance on gay marriage reached a disgusting level this year with the vocal and active support for the passage of California’s Proposition 8. The Jesus Christ I believe in loves all His Children, regardless of who they are—black or white, gay or straight, single or married. I can no longer tolerate having my name on the records of a church I find detestable in their proactive pursuits to take away rights from a group of people I love and support. You will never know the anguish and heartache these “teachings” have had on members of my family and I no longer want my name on your records.

After today, the only contact I want from the church is a single letter of confirmation to let me know that I am no longer listed as a member of the church.

A lot of this is formal stuff required for all church resignation letters. If you would like to learn more or would also like to resign from the church, visit www.mormonnomore.com.

The movement for complete equality for all citizens is the civil rights movement of my generation. I plan to be there every step of the way--protesting, letter writing, blogging, speaking out, and "turning the hearts of the father to the children." (I have no idea if I quoted that scripture correctly as I've never actually read them. Please tell me if it's right).

I hope you'll join me.

Election 2008, Localized (Part 2 of 3)

2008-11-08T13:13:00.003-07:00

My excitement over the win of Barack Obama turned bittersweet around 2 AM Tuesday night/Wednesday morning. While talking to my friend Chris via BB email, we both realized that the Democrats would not reach 60 seats in the Senate, but we'd come VERY close. This made us both really sad and Chris found an interesting paradox: it didn't matter where Obama won, many Democratic Senate candidates got a higher percentage than him while some really struggled. I had a really hard time with this (and still do) because, while we made some amazing gains in both houses, I'm disappointed in the electorate.

Barack Obama's central campaign message was that it takes all of us to create change. He knew that real change only happens from the bottom up--not the top down. And yet, millions of new voters on Tuesday didn't take his words truly to heart. Yes, they registered and voted for him. Yes, I'm SO EXCITED ABOUT THIS as I've worked tirelessly over the years to get more people civically engaged. But people who only vote for the Presidency and no other races really frustrate me. I know there is about a 10% drop on down ballot candidates but for millions of American who are craving change not to vote for every office--regardless of party affiliation, makes me wonder. Were they just caught up in the hype? Will they ever vote again? What kind of change do they really want?!

President Obama will do amazing things for our country, I have no doubt. However, he could do many more amazing things with 60 Democrats in the US Senate. And, with more progressives and candidates for change at the local level, EVEN MORE good things will happen in this country. But we won't really know or see that.

Here in Utah, we didn't see much change and I'm very frustrated with this and take a lot of it very personally. I know I shouldn't, but I just can't help it. Democrats took out the very insulated, very wealthy Republican Speaker of the House. BY A LANDSLIDE. We had an amazing (it's my favorite word today) group of candidates of which I helped recruit and counsel. We had more paid staff and a top-notch field plan. We spend A LOT of money (which I won't discuss on this blog). But we only picked up 3 seats in the House, kept the same number in the Senate, & now have a majority on the SLCounty Council.

I take this very personal because I can not help but wonder, "What if?" What if I had stayed on as Chair? I built upon an organizational groundwork that was laid for me and was leading the county in the right direction. It was virtually destroyed when I didn't run for re-election and I truly believe that if I had stayed on, we would have won more seats.

I can't change the past and I will stop having regrets someday. I dunno, maybe I'm used to disappointment on Election Day and just had to find something to be disappointed in (I didn't even have ONE alcoholic drink--which has NEVER HAPPENED!). I've taken a break from direct political work but I now realize that we can never stop working or fighting to make our cities, counties and our country great. Barack Obama is a giant step for creating a better world. Now, we must all do our part to ensure it stays that way.

My 2008 Election Thoughts (Part 1 of 3)

2008-11-08T12:44:00.004-07:00

[I have many feelings about Tuesday ad the subsequent election results and don't want to dilute any of these feelings so I will be posting 3 separate posts regarding the 2008 Election.]

Unlike many Americans, my life has not been better the last 8 years. Yes, not all of it was directly related to the Bush "Presidency" but there were many policies he supported that hurt my family (CHIP comes to mind...). Once I decided on Barack Obama as my choice for President before the February primary, everyday I became more and more empowered and excited with his philosophy and plans for the future of America.

Needless to say, I was elated with his landslide victory Tuesday night. I mean, I knew he'd win, but I didn't know he'd win so big! I'm very excited about the future of our country and know that Barack Obama is the right person to lead our country at this precarious time.

President Obama...sounds pretty awesome, doesn't it?!

Really, I don't care who you vote for; JUST VOTE!

2008-11-02T22:18:00.000-07:00

Unfair and just wrong

2008-10-29T23:09:00.006-06:00

I just found out that today is "Write to Marry Day" from my friend Jere's blog.

Since I only have 40 minutes left in this day AND since I wrote about my thoughts on Prop 8 already, I'm going to just leave you with this:

My Twitter Feed.

I started posting a tweet a day about why people should vote No on Prop 8. I also post other random tweets and I lost track of what number I was on, but still, 12 reasons to vote No on Prop 8. WHAT MORE COULD YOU ASK FOR??

Who this election is really for

2008-10-28T01:03:00.004-06:00

This election isn't for me. It's not for my daughter or even her daughter yet to come.

It isn't about Barack Obama or Joe Biden or even John McCain and Sarah Palin.

This election is about all of us. It always has been. Many have accused Barack Obama of being just another politician who only has ideas and no real solutions. He's talked a lot about change and how that change will help our country. Watch this video and listen. Notice how Obama doesn't just say that HE will provide the change, but that WE will provide the change.

Barack Obama provides more than just hope and change. He provides the forum for all of us to create change in our community that will lead to a better life for all of us. In the history of our country, all momentous occasions occurred due to the efforts of everyday, extraordinary Americans. That change can and will happen again on November 4th. You won't want to miss it.

Housing First, Housing Works

2008-10-15T17:28:00.003-06:00

I started work as an AmeriCorps volunteer this month. When I filled out my application, I had no idea what I would be doing. I have been placed with the Homeless Youth Resource Center and while I haven't officially started there yet, the issues and people I'll be working with will be unlike anything I've done in my life. When I interviewed for the position, the director said that I was overqualified for the position. I didn't think so because while I have worked in many capacities over the years to assist those in poverty, I have never worked directly with them. I'll save my personal experiences for another post because after today, I realized how fortunate I have been.

Today, as a part of my training, I attended the 5th Annual Housing Summit for the state. About 7 years ago, a national movement started to figure out what the causes of homelessness are and to figure out solutions to stop and prevent them. 2-3 years ago, Utah (and many other states) realized that the solution to homelessness is not providing more services to homeless individuals and families (i.e. shelter, food, state/federal services) but to first provide housing. Housing leads to jobs which leads to self-sufficiency which leads to stability and so on and so on.

For over 20 years, our country has neglected the homeless--or at least turned away from the problem. One of the presenters from a suburban county today said that no city in her county wanted to provide transitional housing for chronically homeless individuals; they refused to believe that homeless people live in their cities. What I learned today is that, by providing housing for people, we are giving them a new lease on life. Having quality, safe housing affects every aspect of our lives.

Our keynote speaker today was Philip Mangano, Executive Director of the U.S. Intra-agency on Homelessness. He said that for years, the government only thought of homelessness as an economic issue. But over the years, non-profit organizations started to realize that it was a moral and spiritual issue. Today, he was proud to say, both government and non-profits realize that it encompasses both moral and economic benefits. This has lead to the creation of good public policies to help end homelessness which helps the community, the homeless, and the taxpayers.

This correlation can best be viewed in a recent study done here in Salt Lake. The study simply showed that placing the chronically homeless in supportive housing saves lives and money. 8 of 39 chronically homeless men were placed into housing. Collectively, these 39 men logged 15,000 nights in jail, an average of 837 arrests annually, 433 bookings and 155 ambulance calls which cost taxpayers $2.6 million. The 8 who were provided housing show a 655 average drop in bookings and a 55% reduction in jail time. 7 of the 39 died, which may have been prevented.

Simply put, the message of today's conference was "Housing First, Housing Works." It's immoral that anyone in our country should have to live without shelter--something that most of us take for granted. I certainly have. There are many reasons people are homeless just as there are many solutions. Housing is only one of the solutions to solving poverty. But it's the most important and very step that needs to take place.

I hope that my work over the next year with the HYRC will provide me with the opportunity to directly make a difference in someone's life. One day within my lifetime, I know that homelessness will cease to exist due to the efforts of the people like those I met today. Our country may not be able to solve a lot of problems, but we can solve this one.

Mangano said the mission of the ICH is, "A Home for Every American." This, he said, is perfection.

Can you imagine a world of perfection?

Obama Rising

2008-10-14T12:47:00.002-06:00

Bruce Springsteen has been on of Senator Obama's greatest agents of change using his talent to reach thousands of people. This is only one of many performances he's given over the last year but at the beginning, he expresses what all of us are feeling.

Don't eliminate marriage for anyone.

2008-10-13T21:15:00.001-06:00

To me, providing equal rights to everyone isn't about providing special or better rights to a person. It's about being fair.

You see, it's not fair that I have the ability to go to the Clerk's office whenever I want and get married. It's not fair that I can visit my [future] husband if he were to ever be in the hospital with a fatal disease and my gay coupled friends can not. It's not fair that my husband and I would enjoy the thousands of benefits that comes with being married while gay couples are required to spend hundreds of dollars to create legal documents to enjoy the same rights. And sometimes, even these legal documents are not enough.

To me, marriage is more than just a religious ceremony and more than just a legally binding document (although, these are very important). Marriage is about joining the lives of two people who love and have chosen each other to spend their lives together. I have the freedom to marry whomever I want and it's only fair that this is extended to everyone--regardless of sexual orientation. To me, it's a basic matter of fairness.

I don't live in California. Maybe, some day I will. I only have a few friends who live there, gay and straight. This issue transcends the borders of one state. No one should be treated differently no matter what the issue. Singling out one group of people and denying them the freedom to marry isn't fair in whatever state you live.

We all expect to be treated fairly in every regard of our lives. Sometimes, we don't even know such fairness occurs. To many Americans, the freedom to marry is just a given, accepted way of life-it's taken for granted. But what about the thousands of gay Americans who don't have this freedom? The freedom to marry provides security, dignity, and respect for all. Everyone deserves the same freedoms and rights; from the right to vote to the right to live free, from freedom of religion to the freedom to marry.

What happens in California on November 4th will affect us all. Fairness and equality will either be destroyed or preserved.

As a straight, non-Californian, why do I even care? Because I can't fathom what it would be like if the government came in and took one of my freedoms away. I'd be pissed (although, you'd think I'd be use to it under our current "President"). As a single person, my marriage is obviously not being threatened by said government. But as a human being, my sense of decency and fairness is. As a mother, I want my child to live in a world where everyone is treated fairly. This is one step to creating a world I will be proud to leave her.

Look, I don't admit to know everything nor do I understand all the legalities that this issue entails. I do know what fairness is. So do you. If you, or anyone you know lives in California and believes in fairness for all, I encourage you to vote no on Prop 8. If you're already planning on voting no, go donate some money. Volunteer. Make some phone calls. They need it. This is a fight that you can be proud of investing in.

Don't eliminate marriage for anyone.

P.S. Make sure you're registered to vote. This election is the most critical one my generation (and the one younger than me) will EVER face. In California, you have ONE week to register. DO IT NOW.

2008-10-13T11:32:00.001-06:00

On Liberty, Megan style

2008-10-07T00:15:00.000-06:00

I have an odd personality quirk. Actually, I'm not sure that it's a personality quirk as much as proof of my genius (or overall insanity, which really are one in the same). Whatever it is classified as, I can't help it. You see, I remember weird and random things. For example, I can tell you the store where I bought every single one of my 500+ CD's. That's a lot of stores.

I can also tell you where I have been and what I did on every single general election day and night for the past 7 years. And if I thought long enough, I could tell you what I was wearing too. As a democrat in Utah, I've had a lot of depressing election nights. I won't go into many details but let's just say tears and tequila have always been involved and that is not a good thing. TRUST ME.

As much as I try, I can't seem to get away from politics. Something/one always drags me back, kicking and screaming (usually Adam) and forces me to realize why it is I do this. I can't explain my sadomasochistic attraction and you'd think after having been beat up and let down so many times, I'd get tired and just give up. But I can't. Not until everyone sees things my way. (To my friends who read my personal blog: SHUT IT).

On election night 2002, the US Congress suffered a serious blow with many democratic losses. Here in Utah, our legislature took a severe turn to the right-again. Hope, one might say, was lost.

After hearing the results and drinking multiple shots of above referenced beverage, my friends and I went to Denny's. There we encountered a group of people our age who asked us why we were dressed up so nicely but so sad. We told them of our night. The reply of one guy has stuck with me: "I don't know why you care, I mean, the only election that really matters is for the President. That's why I only vote every 4 years." We stared at him in disbelief and Matthew began arguing with him how he was so very wrong. I learned that night it's not smart to argue with drunk people while you are also drunk. But that's not the point of my story.

It's this: I do not understand people who don't vote in every single election, don't read the newspaper every day, and don't volunteer in their community at least once a year. These things are not hard. And I will fight to the death to make sure people see why and do these things.

A friend of mine told me a while ago that because Obama was the democratic nominee, they were just not going to vote. I didn't respond but now, I wish I had. I wish that I had said, "Don't you see how ridiculous that statement is?? It's ONE race and the things the President decides do not affect your daily life as much as other offices you will vote on this year. You don't have to vote for him, but please, go vote for the other people on the ballot who deserve it!"

I hear this all the time, of course, but it still makes me angry. By not voting at all, you are forsaking the choice you have for people who make decisions on how you live your life. They make decisions on traffic construction that will invariably affect your commute, how much your property tax will be, how much your kids' school teachers get paid, how much your tuition will be raised at that nice college you attend, and even if your garbage will be picked up that week. They legislate things like ensuring my gay friends can have domestic partner benefits, whether or not it's a crime to beat someone up because they're a Muslim, and even where certain people are allowed to go--physically and electronically.

Just voting every 4 years for one person will not make this world a better place. To quote Bobby Kennedy, "Few will have the greatness to bend history itself; but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total; of all those acts will be written the history of this generation."

There are thousands of laws that are made and enforced every day by people who were not elected to be President. Your vote matters more to them than you'll ever know. I know because I've been there when a candidate has lost by a mere 30 votes. I've asked myself what else I could have done and who else I could have persuaded to get out and vote.

I've seen laws get made and know the passionate elected officials who fight for your rights every single day.

You can't tell me that the only election that matters occurs every 4 years. Every election matters no matter which side you're on. The decisions and discourse created on the lowest level--the public level--matter more than you know. By not voting, you are giving up on a piece of liberty that I and millions of others hold dear.

You may not like Barack Obama for whatever reason but if you don't even take a moment and vote for others who deserve it, you're giving in to what he's trying to change. If you don't like Obama, McBush, or anyone else running for President, just skip over it and go right to Congress (or Governor, or legislature or school board-whatever gets you off your ass).

But please, vote. Vote in every race. If you don't know the people running or don't like them, write my name in. I like a little notoriety now and then. Whatever you do, just VOTE.

Barracudas scare the s#!t out of me

2008-10-06T12:11:00.001-06:00

Sarah Palin is definitely the easiest politician to make fun of in our world today. I mean, it's not like it's very hard. Personally, I thought she did well in last week's debate against Senator Biden. Yeah, sure she didn't actually answer the questions but to about 85% of Americans watching, they didn't care or notice.

Sarah Palin does not appeal to or represent women like me. But I'm not your average woman. Young girls and soccer moms everywhere are idolizing this woman. I'm amazed at this because of the sheer stupidity of most of the things Sarah says or does. But again, I'm not most women.

What scares me the most about Sarah Palin is that people like my oldest sister LOVE her. They want to be her. They have 3 or more children, live in nice houses in nicer neighborhood, most likely have a part time job but still manage to run their kids to soccer, piano, dance, skating, math club, etc. They are vocal about their opinions to the point I'd like to run them over with their own mini-van. They are the "social planners" of their kids' soccer teams and must always look perfect with every hair in place even if they're just running to the Super Wal-Mart to get some milk.

And, they vote. They vote every year for every race and make sure all their fellow PTA moms do so as well. They are a large segment of our population and sometimes end up being the deciding factor in many elections. This scares me.

Now, I know Obama is up in every poll and has the electoral votes now and WILL WIN next month, but I'm still nervous...we don't need crazy people like my sister running our country.

Small steps

2008-10-04T19:40:00.000-06:00

My mom usually votes for Democrats in all races except for President. My dad usually votes for whoever my mom or I tell him to, except for President. I consider this quite significant considering studies show children are more likely to have the same politics as their parents. I'm an anomaly, obviously.

One politician she absolutely despises is Lt. Gov. Herbert. Last week I casually mentioned to her that IF John McCain wins, he'll most likely appoint Huntsman to some kind of ambassadorship and the Herbert would become Governor. This did not make her happy.

It's still not a reason for her to vote for Obama, but it's a step.

Are you registered?

2008-10-04T15:27:00.002-06:00

I knew it!

2008-10-03T20:44:00.001-06:00

Hat tip: Jere

My Liberal Identity:

You are a Peace Patroller, also known as an anti-war liberal or neo-hippie. You believe in putting an end to American imperial conquest, stopping wars that have already been lost, and supporting our troops by bringing them home.

Take the quiz at www.FightConservatives.com

Get up America!

2008-10-02T21:23:00.001-06:00

I love this video. Watch. Register (if you're not already). Then VOTE!

Hard to say

2008-09-19T21:29:00.002-06:00

After listening to "President" Bush speak today about the financial crisis, I wondered how long his staff worked with him to say 'unprecedented' correctly. I mean, he said it twice! And he didn't stumble AT ALL.

On Qualifications

2008-09-12T10:37:00.001-06:00

There has been a lot of talk about Sarah Palin Tallhair's (this is her official Eskimo name) experience and qualifications to be Vice President. A blog I read posted an exchange between the author and her mother discussing the qualifications of Sarah Palin and Obama. The author felt that Sarah had a lot of executive experience while Barack only had a few years of legislative experience.

This got me thinking about everyone's definition of experience and why it matters so much to them. First, I don't think it's fair to compare Sarah Palin and Barack Obama and their respective experience since they are not running for the same office. There is a vast difference in what the President does on a daily basis than what the VP does. I do understand that Sarah is a mere heartbeat from the #1 seat but that is only an IF.

Second, if Executive Experience is so important to people, then why aren't they worried about McCain's lack of executive experience? There is a difference between legislative and executive and both Obama and McCain have some. So can SOMEONE show me McCain's?

Third, I was not around to personally see it but I seem to recall another legislator from the State of Illinois who became President and who a lot of people felt wasn't experienced enough either. I my opinion, this man is one of the greatest Presidents in our nation's history. And you know what? Our lives are much better off because of him.

Megan's Victory Map for Obama/Biden

2008-09-09T11:21:00.001-06:00

<p><strong>><a href='http://projects.washingtonpost.com/2008/pick-your-president/'>2008 Election Contest: Pick Your President</a></strong> - Predict the winner of the 2008 presidential election and enter to win a $500 prize.</p>

Create your own and be entered to win prizes here!

What I Heard

2008-09-03T15:46:00.001-06:00

Last Thursday night, I had the amazing opportunity to attend the final day of the Democratic National Convention to be a part of history and hear Barack Obama accept the nomination as President of the United States.

We had a great time waiting almost 6 hours in the sun for the event to "officially" begin, making calls to Coloradoans asking them to watch the speech, watching Jennifer Hudson walk 5 feet in front of me, going to an after-party where Barack and Michelle came to say thank you--even getting lost on the shuttle was fun! (You can see proof of how much fun we had here on Jesse's Flickr set).

My family often asks me why I'm supporting Obama. They think there must be some other reason besides my liberal leanings and I usually ignore their questions because I do NOT like talking politics with my conservative family. I've heard a lot of people think Obama is all talk and no action and his words are simply rhetoric. But from what I heard last Thursday night, I felt that the kind of person he talks about helping improve his or her life is me. While he nor John McCain understand what it's like to be me I'm sure, I know that Barack Obama has helped people like me and truly "gets it."

Let me show you what I mean from some excerpts from his speech. (The lines that pertain to me and my life I have bolded).

We measure the strength of our economy not by the number of billionaires we have or the profits of the Fortune 500, but by whether someone with a good idea can take a risk and start a new business, or whether the waitress who lives on tips can take a day off to look after a sick kid without losing her job - an economy that honors the dignity of work.

In the face of that young student who sleeps just three hours before working the night shift, I think about my mom, who raised my sister and me on her own while she worked and earned her degree; who once turned to food stamps but was still able to send us to the best schools in the country with the help of student loans and scholarships.

And we will keep our promise to every young American - if you commit to serving your community or your country, we will make sure you can afford a college education.

Now is the time to finally keep the promise of affordable, accessible health care for every single American. If you have health care, my plan will lower your premiums. If you don’t, you’ll be able to get the same kind of coverage that members of Congress give themselves.

Now is the time to help families with paid sick days and better family leave, because nobody in America should have to choose between keeping their jobs and caring for a sick child or ailing parent.

We may not agree on abortion, but surely we can agree on reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies in this country. The reality of gun ownership may be different for hunters in rural Ohio than for those plagued by gang-violence in Cleveland, but don’t tell me we can’t uphold the Second Amendment while keeping AK-47s out of the hands of criminals. I know there are differences on same-sex marriage, but surely we can agree that our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters deserve to visit the person they love in the hospital and to live lives free of discrimination.

(I really just like the last line in this paragraph--even if it doesn't directly affect me).

My involvement in the Democratic Party began when I had my daughter. As I've said before, I want her to have a better life than mine. She has only known life with George W. Bush as our "President." For me, supporting Barack Obama is giving her and all our children hope for a brighter future. Eventually, I'll overcome the obstacles that are constantly put in front of me. But I could never do it alone. What Barack Obama stands for is everything I hold dear and I can't imagine supporting anyone else.

If you're still unsure about supporting and voting for Obama, look past your current hesitations and look to what you want your future to be. This is not an election about him; it's about me and you, our country and ensuring the American promise is something we all can enjoy. I've read this speech a dozen times now and I get chills. This is change I know we can believe in.

From the closing of his speech:

I stand before you tonight because all across America something is stirring. What the nay-sayers don’t understand is that this election has never been about me. It’s been about you.

For eighteen long months, you have stood up, one by one, and said enough to the politics of the past. You understand that in this election, the greatest risk we can take is to try the same old politics with the same old players and expect a different result. You have shown what history teaches us - that at defining moments like this one, the change we need doesn’t come from Washington. Change comes to Washington. Change happens because the American people demand it - because they rise up and insist on new ideas and new leadership, a new politics for a new time.

America, this is one of those moments.

I believe that as hard as it will be, the change we need is coming. Because I’ve seen it. Because I’ve lived it. I’ve seen it in Illinois, when we provided health care to more children and moved more families from welfare to work. I’ve seen it in Washington, when we worked across party lines to open up government and hold lobbyists more accountable, to give better care for our veterans and keep nuclear weapons out of terrorist hands.

And I’ve seen it in this campaign. In the young people who voted for the first time, and in those who got involved again after a very long time. In the Republicans who never thought they’d pick up a Democratic ballot, but did. I’ve seen it in the workers who would rather cut their hours back a day than see their friends lose their jobs, in the soldiers who re-enlist after losing a limb, in the good neighbors who take a stranger in when a hurricane strikes and the floodwaters rise.

This country of ours has more wealth than any nation, but that’s not what makes us rich. We have the most powerful military on Earth, but that’s not what makes us strong. Our universities and our culture are the envy of the world, but that’s not what keeps the world coming to our shores.

Instead, it is that American spirit - that American promise - that pushes us forward even when the path is uncertain; that binds us together in spite of our differences; that makes us fix our eye not on what is seen, but what is unseen, that better place around the bend.

That promise is our greatest inheritance. It’s a promise I make to my daughters when I tuck them in at night, and a promise that you make to yours - a promise that has led immigrants to cross oceans and pioneers to travel west; a promise that led workers to picket lines, and women to reach for the ballot.

And it is that promise that forty five years ago today, brought Americans from every corner of this land to stand together on a Mall in Washington, before Lincoln’s Memorial, and hear a young preacher from Georgia speak of his dream.

The men and women who gathered there could’ve heard many things. They could’ve heard words of anger and discord. They could’ve been told to succumb to the fear and frustration of so many dreams deferred.

But what the people heard instead - people of every creed and color, from every walk of life - is that in America, our destiny is inextricably linked. That together, our dreams can be one.

“We cannot walk alone,” the preacher cried. “And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead. We cannot turn back.”

America, we cannot turn back. Not with so much work to be done. Not with so many children to educate, and so many veterans to care for. Not with an economy to fix and cities to rebuild and farms to save. Not with so many families to protect and so many lives to mend. America, we cannot turn back. We cannot walk alone. At this moment, in this election, we must pledge once more to march into the future. Let us keep that promise - that American promise - and in the words of Scripture hold firmly, without wavering, to the hope that we confess.

2008-09-03T14:49:00.002-06:00

Say it ain't so John!

2008-08-08T15:14:00.003-06:00

Dear John,

It seems like only yesterday I was supporting you for President. And now, I'm hurt and astonished at the news of your affair today. You have betrayed and lied to us. I'm not so upset over the fact you had an affair while your wonderful wife was in remission from her INCURABLE cancer (we are human after all, and humans like/need sex), I'm upset that you blatantly lied about it MULTIPLE TIMES.

I am very, VERY disappointed. :(

Sincerely,
meg

P.S. I was pulling for you to be Attorney General. Now, I'm rethinking that. Just so you know.

Random things on my mind

2008-08-08T00:50:00.003-06:00

I'm going to TRY to be a more active blogger between now and November 4th. "Try" being the key word. I really have lost interest in many things over the last few months. This is due to many things that I won't go into here so I'll just use the excuse of packing up my crap and moving. Yeah, that's TOTALLY it.

ANYWAY, here are some random political (and not) tidbits that have been on my mind lately.

Who will Barack pick to be his VP?!! The suspense is really killing me and I can't wait until August 27th! (And yes, I'm still pissed I won't be there). My money's on Wes Clark. Thoughts, votes, comments?

Who will McCain pick to be his VP? (Please note the lack of excitement in this question). I've debated people on this issue the most lately. A lot here in Utahar think that he'll pick Romney. I counter with the obvious statement, "But all Romney brings to the table is Utah and Idaho and MAYBE Michigan. Big whoop." I don't think The Maverick will pick Mr. Fake Tan. I don't think he'll pick a woman either. He should pick someone younger. Right now, my money's on Charlie Crist.

John Edwards DOES NOT have a love child nor does he have a mistress. I absolutely, positively, 100% refuse to believe that.

Al Gore is still hella cool.

I've been meaning to write a post about political malaise this year. I've hesitated only because I'm afraid I'd hurt the feelings of a close friend of mine but I think I've finally got it to a point where it's not offensive to this person or anyone really. Look for it...soonish.

I've gone on a DVD buying spree lately. I don't know what came over me. It started when Borders sent me a coupon for 40% off a DVD (3 per purchase) and I purchased the following:
Harry Potter 2 (I believe it's the Chamber of Secrets)
Enchanted (for The Kid)
Batman Begins (Oh how I love this movie {and Christian Bale too!}).
Later that day (when I'm depressed, I shop), I went to a used DVD/CD store and purchased the following:
V for Vendetta, 2-disc special version (SO INSANELY AMAZING...words cannot describe...)
Hairspray, 2-disc special shimmy & shake version (No, I have not learned the dances...yet)
Arrested Development, Season 1
The West Wing, Season 1
Later that week, I went to purchase that thingy that will make my teevee HD ready and I purchased the following:
Harry Potter 3 (The Prisoner of Azkaban (spelled incorrectly, I know, but I now have all 5 movies)
The Princess Bride (Best. Movie. Ever.)
Even later that week, while at Barnes, I purchased the following:
Ghostbusters 1 & 2, Special Movie Pack (On sale from $19.99 to $12.41!)
These movies have kept me occupied during my packing/unemployment phase. Some, I've even watched multiple times over the last few weeks. I've also seen The Dark Knight twice, Prince Caspian, and Mamma Mia in the course of these weeks. What can I say? I like movies.

Look for new and insightful posts!

Or not...

Better late than never

2008-07-01T23:55:00.003-06:00

So, the Democratic Primary is over. Finally. And yes, I'm late in blogging about it but there's a good reason.

But now, this Presidential election is quite boring. I mean, without the fighting of Hillary and Barack, it's become very dull. And it completely makes sense. I mean, have you listened/seen/watched/read about John McCain?! Wow. He makes watching paint dry exciting.

More new posts to follow!

Maybe.

"President" Bush is in town today. What are you gonna do about it?

2008-05-28T11:26:00.002-06:00

Go to this rally. This is what you need to be doing from 5:30 to 6:30 PM TONIGHT.

75,000

2008-05-22T09:16:00.001-06:00

Congratulations to the Salt Lake County Democratic Party!

2008-05-16T09:18:00.002-06:00

The Salt Lake County Democratic Party is #3 on ActBlue's "Hot Pages" list today!

Support them by donating $10, $15, or $20 today!

Join the Better World Club!

2008-05-06T22:36:00.003-06:00

The Better World Club is like AAA but more environmental friendly and moral:

Better World Club Provides Nationwide Roadside Assistance. We are the Nation's Only environmentally friendly auto club. Membership Includes eco-travel Services, Discounts on hybrid car rental, insurance Services, Free Maps, Auto Maintenance discounts and bicycle roadside assistance. We donate 1% of annual revenues toward environmental cleanup and advocacy.

They even help when you have bicycle problems! Put your money where your mouth is and join the Better World Club now!

My Pennsylvania Prediction

2008-04-21T23:33:00.002-06:00

Obama wins, 51 to 49.

Yes, I know all the polls show him losing to Clinton, but I think that the polls aren't totally accurate.

Follow my logic: Polls don't usually take into account newly registered voters. Newly registered voters are more likely to only have a cell phone and won't list that on their voter registration form (or list it in general). These newly registered voters with only cell phones are most likely young people (under 40). And, as the previous primaries show us, Obama has a lock on the young vote.

I know for a fact that the Obama campaign has been running an aggressive voter registration drive and this will prove to be the key to his success tomorrow.

How much will it take before we take a break?

2008-04-14T10:59:00.001-06:00

I moved into a new apartment on Jan 1st that is much closer to the train than my old place. I've started taking the train just about everywhere--the movies, work, the grocery store (which, btw, if you want to cut down on your impulse grocery shopping, take the train/bus. You'll only buy what you can carry home!). I figure that if I can't get somewhere by taking the train and walking a few blocks, then I really don't need to go there. It's a philosophy I had in college and have sadly neglected it over the years.

But this renewal for me is actually beneficial is so many ways. Number one is the money I'm saving. Next to my apartment building is a Maverick convenience store. Everyday I walk by I check the gas prices. It is insane how quickly prices are going up. It makes me wonder how much more it will take before people stop using their vehicles or stop purchasing other necessities?

The reality is that the hurt of record high crude prices doesn’t end at the pump for American consumers, but rather drives up the prices of all products that are shipped to the location of the final purchase, which essentially includes almost all products Americans buy.

Just when we thought the working class couldn't take much more, the rising cost of everything is forcing them to re-think how they live their life. I remember 10 years ago when gas was only 99 cents per gallon. Wow.

All of this is occurring at a time when many Americans find themselves stuck in jobs where wages remain stagnant despite skyrocketing prices. Because of this reality many people are being prices out of some markets and luxuries they recently were able to afford. Soon many Americans may be priced out of the market of necessities such as food and clothes. If gas prices reach the predicted $4.00 in a few short months, this may become a reality.

But we're NOT in a recession our government says...

Stop McCain!

2008-03-29T18:47:00.000-06:00

Dear Friend,

John McCain's campaign spending is breaking the law. He elected for public funding when his campaign was having trouble. But now that he is the presumptive nominee, he is, by his campaign's own admission, around $4 million over his legal spending limit.

I just did my part to stop McCain from breaking the law by signing the official FEC complaint against him.

Please help out by adding your name here:

http://action.firedoglake.com/page/petition/mccainfec/kkkt

Thanks!

Anything but Spitzer: Overlooked news of the day

2008-03-12T20:43:00.002-06:00

Boys survive being tossed from overpass

Severed fingers of U.S. hostages delivered to officials in Iraq

Barack OH!Bama the Musical!

Oh, and the US Capitol was evacuated

Top 24 Targeted Democratic House Seats

2008-03-07T11:33:00.001-07:00

And Utah's Matheson is not on it this year. That bodes well for all our candidates here.

Oliver North's still around?! And people still take him as a credible source?!

2008-03-07T11:32:00.001-07:00

Fox’s Oliver North Blames Times Square Bombings On Pelosi And House Democrats

Why Ralph Nader makes me a better Democrat

2008-03-05T16:30:00.002-07:00

I had the pleasure and opportunity to be a part of the organization that brought Ralph Nader to the University of Utah campus in 2002. He had just come out with another book, "Crashing the Party" and was going to speak about becoming a more civically engaged society. He inspired me so much. I have an autographed copy of the book and after I read it, I wasn't so mad about him running for President in 2000.

SIDENOTE: I do not think Nader hurt Al Gore in 2000. Al Gore, by failing to distinguish himself effectively from Bush, hurt himself in 2000.

Nader's words struck a chord with me. In his speech, he said, (and I'm paraphrasing) "When your grandchildren look at you years from now and ask, 'Why is the world the way it is? Did you do everything you could to make it a better place?' and you can't answer them, you did not do enough to help change the world." In his book(s) (I also got a copy of More Action for Change), he discusses many things that are wrong with our country. I agree with him.

But it is because there are so many things that are wrong with our country that I have worked so hard to get more Democrats elected. I think the country would be much healthier with multiple political parties running things. Diverse opinions create conscious and (sometimes) eloquent discourse. But things being as they are, we only have two viable parties and because of this, my priorities lay with getting more Democrats elected wherever I can.

For example, I am currently having a discussion with some people who want to get rid of our dear State Senator Buttars here in Utah. They believe that only a Republican can beat him. I, of course, vehemently disagree.

You see, I believe that a Democrat can win anywhere in the state of Utah. Yes, I really believe this and yes, I've been told I'm delusional.

My reasoning is simple. When people tell me, "A Democrat can never win so what's the point," I respond, "Well, have you ever helped a Democrat when the odds were stacked against him/her? Have you ever thought of running as a Democrat?" The problem doesn't lie with the policies, platforms or beliefs of the party; it lies with people's attitude to just give up in trying to get Democrats elected. They feel it's a pointless endeavor and don't even start to help.

This attitude is what loses elections.

If everyone who was ever pissed off at their republican legislator or Congressman actually did something (like, donate to or canvass for their Democratic opponent) I guarantee you that it would indeed make a difference. We may not win the race by a landslide but we'd certainly put up a fight.

If you don't think the Democratic candidates are liberal or progressive enough or should believe in something differently, get out there and make them change their minds.

Ralph Nader is best known as running for President in 2000. But before that, he was (and still is) an amazing community organizer and consumer advocate. He knows, better than anyone, the absolute importance of getting out there and doing things and not just sitting around talking about it. We all can do something to make our world a better place but no one ever changed history by sitting in front of a computer typing or on the couch watching TV.

So if you've ever been one to say that a Democrat can't ever beat a republican--especially in Utah--I strongly urge you to use more than your words and start "walking the walk." Help out the Democrat in your area or, if you live in a Democratic area, go to another district to help. You'll see and be making a difference.

Wouldn't it be nice to one day say you helped turn Utah blue (or at least a purple)?

I'm disturbed by this

2008-03-05T15:49:00.002-07:00

Six Flags to Build Park in Dubai

I'm not against corporations. I'm not against globalization. I'm not against Six Flags and I'm not against Dubai.

But I am against what looks like the U.S. and U.S. companies "Americanizing" the rest of the world. Why must we make every other country like us? Is it because we don't want their people living here? Why don't we help them make their own countries strong and stable and culturally-relevant to their own histories?

I'm too sad to blog tonight. :(

2008-03-04T22:25:00.000-07:00

I'm looking at schools in Canada now. I don't think the Democrat can win. We are going to keep fighting amongst ourselves while the Right rallies behind McCain.

It's over.

OBAMA!

2008-02-29T13:58:00.000-07:00

Participation post!

2008-02-27T16:19:00.002-07:00

I've been playing a West Wing Trivia game on The Facebook today and was wondering what Barack Obama's Secret Service detail name is.

I'll be taking answers in the comments.

She's definitely no CJ Craig

2008-02-26T10:05:00.002-07:00

I don't really follow the news that comes out of the White House but every now and then (like 4 times a week), I'll read something that WH Press Secretary Dana Perino says and I laugh. I usually roll my eyes and think to myself, "She really can't be that stupid." But then I remember who she works for and think, "Yes, yes she can."

Her job, if I'm not mistaken, is to answer questions the WH press corps comes up with. Now, she doesn't have to necessarily answer correctly (although, that would be nice) but she should answer somewhat intelligently. Her latest gaffe that just makes me shake my head and roll my eyes is her serious lack of knowledge about FISA (among other things). I don't know a lot about FISA, I'll admit, but I'm also not the White House Press Secretary WHOSE JOB IT IS TO KNOW THESE THINGS! Just saying, "I'm not a lawyer" just doesn't cut it. (Because I'm not a lawyer yet either and I still know what it means). Like Wonkette says, I wonder if she's just there cause she's cute and blonde.
Ew, I don't like that.

For what an excellent press secretary should be like, watch her in action:

Partisan Fishing Expeditions?

2008-02-14T13:54:00.002-07:00

House Republicans staged a walk-out today. I remember in high school my debate team started a walk-out in support of teacher's not getting a pay raise. We ended up on the news which was cool and it was for a very good reason. But this--this is silly to me. They are Congress! They have responsibilities! They have a duty to the American people to stand up and be accountable!

Today, House Democrats attempted to hold a vote on contempt charges for White House Chief of Staff Josh Bolten and former White House counsel Harriet Miers, who refused to respond to subpoenas in Congress’s investigation of the U.S. attorney scandal.

On the House floor today, House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-OH) led Republicans in a walkout in protest of the contempt vote, alleging it is a “partisan fishing expedition.”

What I find most ironic is that most of these republicans were also behind the witch-hunt of impeaching President Clinton. I guess when the shoe is the other foot, it really hurts.

Quote of the Day

2008-02-13T11:06:00.003-07:00

"The tree of progressive politics must be watered with the metaphorical blood of sellouts every now and again." The Atlantic's Matthew Yglesias about Donna Edwards' Democratic primary win of current Congressman Al Wynn.

I shall be writing more about this year's Congressional races as well as my thoughts about progressive politics of the future.

Memo to Democrats Everywhere: If you want to win in November, here's how.

2008-02-11T14:41:00.000-07:00

We Democrats have a problem.

Most of the time, we tend to screw up winning when it counts the most. Believe me, I've seen it happen again and again.

This year, however, we Democrats have the opportunity to not only change the direction of our country, but also to elect a man (or woman, if you want) with strong progressive credentials to help foster this must-needed change. What we do between now and November is absolutely critical. And, what progress is made over the next 4 years will be contingent on what we do over the next 10 months. There are many things progressives around this country can do to ensure this happens. The first one requires that we all work together.

The November 4th election is not just about who wins the Presidency, however. We have the chance to make the next Congress the most progressive and effective Congress ever. It's not enough to just send Barack Obama (or Hillary Clinton) to the White House; we must also give him or her a Congress who will support his or her initiatives.

In 2004, there were a host of groups hell-bent on making sure George W. did not win re-election. The problem was that none of them were working together. When trying to get things done in a political arena, the number one rule is to build coalitions with other like-minded organizations. Just think of the power we could have unleashed upon Karl Rove and his minions if we had all been working together in 2004!

As fabulous and easy as this sounds, it wasn't my original idea. In this recent article, Ken Brociner outlines what we, as progressives, can do to take back our country.

Brociner gives us a 2nd track to take back our country:

Track two: In order to seriously address the problems that are facing our nation and the rest of the world, we will need to construct a vital and visible left-wing of the progressive movement.

One of the reasons the progressive movement lacks a coherent left-wing is because the term “progressive” has lost its radical edge.

Yes, that's right, we need to become more progressive and, dare I say it, liberal.

30 years ago, top republicans met behind closed doors at the Cato Institute to craft a different kind of conservativism that they would slowly unleash upon us unsuspecting Americans. Since 2000, we have seen the worst of these policies and now, people are rebuking these policies by the thousands.

Many so-called 'red' states are now turning a bright shade of purple (and sometimes blue) because of the progressive people who have been elected to office recently. This isn't rocket science. People know that progressive Democrats have the right policies. Brociner again:

On practically every issue that we care about—from stopping the war in Iraq, to fighting global warming, to protecting civil liberties, to tackling economic injustice—the Democrats have far better policies than the Republicans.

As a Democrat and opponent of the Iraq War, I've often been called un-patriotic. But it's because I love my country that I strongly believe the Democrats are best suited to run our country and fix the problems we currently have. We can no longer sit around and complain about the problems in our country and just write letters to the editor. We MUST start working together NOW on progressive ideas and policies that will transform our country into the great power it once was.

Everybody look what's going down

2008-02-10T19:34:00.000-07:00

I come from a conservative family in rural Utah. Where I got my liberal leanings, I'll never know. But over time, I have wedged my beliefs and philosophies into their political leanings.

While my parents have yet to vote for a Democratic President (they usually vote for every other Democrat on the ticket except for President), this year, they are seriously considering voting for Barack Obama. I also found out that my very devout LDS sister and her husband are ALSO considering voting for Obama; they've never voted before either (I know, I'm ashamed to admit I have failed to activate my own sibling).

I'm amazed at what's happening within my own family and their desire to vote for Barack Obama. I hope that the same thing is happening to families all across America.

Obama wins!

2008-02-10T18:19:00.000-07:00

Senator Obama won his 2nd Grammy today, for his spoken-word recording of "The Audacity of Hope!"

Oh, and he also won a couple of more delegates this weekend but who cares about that when you have a Grammy!

(He was also up against Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, and Jimmy Carter).

Super Tuesday by the Numbers

2008-02-07T09:35:00.000-07:00

UPDATED at 10:51 AM

National Democratic Turnout: 14.4 million people
National Republican Turnout: 8.7 million people

Amount of money raised by the Clinton campaign in the last 24 hours: $5 million (35,000 new donors)
Amount of money raised by the Obama campaign since Tuesday: $7.2 million

Amount of money raised and spent by Romney: almost $90 million
Amount of money raised and spent by McCain: almost $40 million
Amount of money raised and spent by Huckabee: almost $8 million
(And Mittens wants us to believe he's a good businessman?)

Clinton delegates: 979
Obama delegates: 898
Edwards delegates: 12 (more on this later)

McCain delegates: 680
Romney delegates: 270
Huckabee delegates: 176
Paul delegates: 16 (there will not be more on this later)

Utah Primary Fun Facts
1992 Party-run Presidential “Firehouse” Primary
TOTAL VOTE: 31,638
(Bill Clinton came in 3rd)

1996 Precinct Caucuses
Bill Clinton - Unopposed

2000 State-run Presidential Primary
TOTAL VOTE: 15,687

2004 Party-run Presidential “Firehouse” Primary
TOTAL VOTE: 34,854

Total votes cast in Democratic primaries from 1992-2004: 82,359

2008 State-run Presidential Primary
Democratic votes cast:
124,307

The Biggest Loser

2008-02-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

Again, from Think Progress: Hate Talk Radio is going down. And yesterday proved it.

It all started in a place called Hope.

2008-02-05T07:15:00.001-07:00

I love Election Day. Anytime, anywhere, all throughout the year.

Today was no exception. Knowing that my vote would actually matter today, I had to make the best decision for myself. I was supporting John Edwards up until the very end and found it difficult to choose between Obama and Clinton.

As I said before, I agreed with and believed in everything John Edwards said and believed in; and there are many things I like about Hillary and Barack. I'm so thrilled to actually have had a choice between three intellectual and amazing candidates this year.

I disagree with Obama on a few issues: health care, illegal immigrants, and his troop withdrawal plan in Iraq.

I disagree with Clinton on a few issues: tax cut and government reform.

I now believe that Hillary or Barack can beat whoever the Republicans decide to nominate. Both will be great candidates and both represent the Democratic Party and America very well.

I inquired with many of my friends why they were supporting Hillary or Barack. I noticed a few interesting things. First, my older friends (those close to or older than me) are all supporting Hillary and that my younger friends are all supporting Obama. Second, when I asked my friends why they were supporting one over the other, I found that Obama supporters were not substantively able to tell my WHY they were supporting him. They talked about "change" and "justice"--values that I find admirable--but that wasn't enough for me. My Hillary supporting friends talked to me about her vast experience and her policies on a few key issues. This difference was striking to me.

I know that my decision is going to cause my friends heartburn one way or another. But this decision isn't for them. It's for me. And it's for McKenna.

As some of you know, she is supporting Hillary. She didn't get this idea from me, but rather from her daycare teacher. When people asked her why she was supporting Hillary, McKenna (8-years-old, mind you) would state: "Because we've never had a girl President before and she'd be the first one." As I've thought about my decision, my thoughts always go back to this simple statement. I wonder, how can I teach my daughter to be a strong-willed, independent woman and that women are just as equal as men in every regard and NOT be willing to show her that by voting for Hillary? I'm much more worried about her opinion of me--and of herself--than I am of my friends. I think back to when I was her age and how I dreamed of being the first female President and how much I have shown that I am just as equal to men in local politics. Would I be a hypocrite for voting for Obama?

I've been very critical of Obama's message of hope. I am moved by his words and commercials. I was there in Boston in 2004 and listened to his "Audacity of Hope" speech. He talks so eloquently about change. And he's right, the top two Democratic candidates are a black man and a woman--that's quite a change! I see Obama's supporters and see how he has revived political interest in many people--especially young people. During college, I spent most of my time increasing civic engagement among my peers. I don't understand how anyone can not be interested in politics and believe that Howard Dean in 2004 and Barack Obama in 2008 have inspired thousands of new voters--young and old.

Part of this inspiration has to do with the fact so many people are pissed off with the government. They're tired of what's been going on in Washington for far too long. They're tired of spending billions of dollars on a war they did not want and did not ask for. They're tired of being lied to.

Throughout the course of my decision since Edwards dropped out, I've gone back and forth on Clinton and Obama. I started strongly supporting Hillary then over the weekend slowly moved towards Barack. Reading through their policies one last time before I went to sleep, I moved back to Hillary. I disagreed with Obama on way too many issues and felt that Hillary was the right choice.

But the thing that made me finalize my decision was when I thought about all of my hard work within the local Democratic Party here over the last 8 years. I have worked hard to build a party that I am proud to be a part of and I just can't let this work be for nothing.

Something is wrong with our Government. It is broken and people do not trust it. Part of this is because of the vast corruption and the thought of "same ol', same ol'." Hillary Clinton is a part of this and I fear that if she is elected, it would be the same thing all over again. Hillary, if nominated, would hurt the Utah Democratic Party and all of our candidates this year, I believe. As soon as she's the nominee, the 50 state plan, The State Party Project, implemented by Gov. Howard Dean would cease to exist as she would require all that money to be forwarded to her campaign.

While I may disagree with how the state party has run the State Party Project here, I know that without it, neither Barack Obama nor Hillary Clinton would have had a viable grassroots campaign force here. Without the local work done over the past 5 years, there would not be such a huge movement of Utah Democrats voting for a Democratic Presidential candidate.

I agree with Hillary on more substantive issues. But today, that wasn't enough for me.

Today, I voted for me. I voted for my daughter. I voted for the future of the party and country I love so much.

I voted for Barack Obama.

Hillary's Town Hall Meeting

2008-02-04T21:23:00.000-07:00

I wasn't able to attend the Town Hall meeting for Hillary Clinton due to kid issues but I watched it online as it happened. It wasn't quite the same but I definitely learned more about Hillary and her policies.

I am continually impressed with every appearance of Hillary I see (she was losing her voice and I commend her for still holding this event). She was very articulate tonight and her experience in policy issues was quite evident.

My #1 issue in this year's election is health care. After reading both Senator Clinton's and Senator Obama's health care plan, I must say that I like Hillary's much more. She understands that, in order to provide the best quality care for all Americans, the entire system must be reformed. It is not enough to just make insurance and pharmaceutical companies compete with each other but to actually reduce the costs all across the board.

One of the highlights of Obama's health care plan is that health coverage will not be mandatory; only those who want coverage will receive it. This sounds like a good idea but when one really thinks about it, it won't be as cost-effective as he says.

At my job, I see lots of people who are desperate for legal assistance. Unfortunately, they don't realize they need this assistance before it's too late. The same is true with health care insurance. If people get coverage through their job, they don't think twice about it. And when they need it, it'll be there for them. However, a lot of people don't have health insurance. And they don't think about having it before it's too late--usually when they end up in the emergency room or worse.

This is just one of the issues that will be running through my head at 7:00 AM tomorrow morning when I walk into my polling place.

Stay tuned until tomorrow to find out who I voted for and why.

The importance of tomorrow's election

2008-02-04T12:30:00.001-07:00

In my quest to figure out who to support tomorrow, I realize that I'm not going to support someone just because they are "a winner." I was supporting Edwards even after he kept losing one primary after another because I truly believed he was the best person for the job.

The reason this decision is such a big one for me is because in tomorrow's election, unlike any other election in Utah, my vote for a Democratic Presidential Candidate will actually matter. Who cares about my vote in November? After tomorrow, the ads from Clinton and Obama will disappear from TV here.

But tomorrow, my vote will make a real difference in Democratic politics in Utah.

That thought gives me goosebumps and makes me realize why I began my involvement in politics in the first place.

The next step in my quest: Town Hall meeting with Hillary Clinton

Fire it up! Ready to go!

2008-02-03T23:09:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to an Obama "rally/fundraiser." The Senator was supposed to come to Utah today but earlier this week changed his plans (to Idaho) and his Utah staff quickly threw together this event. I'm very picky when it comes to my events so I won't go into too much detail about the "little" things.

It was an electrifying event. We listened to speakers from various parts of the community talk about why they were supporting Obama. We watched commercials and clips of speeches Barack has given. There were people from all walks of life there: young and old, black and white, Democrat and Republican. We were inspired by a gospel choir and Pastors from two local churches.

A lady in front of me brought her two young daughters to the event and she something very interesting to me: "I've never given money to any candidate before, I've never put up a lawn sign for anyone. But Barack Obama really inspires me. I'm excited by his candidacy and I've never been excited about ANY candidate before."

As I looked around the room, I saw that look in the faces of all the people there. I know that look quite well because I've had that look ever since I started getting involved in politics.

There's definitely something happening here...

I must say, I DO love this ad...

2008-02-03T13:40:00.001-07:00

But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children. Acts 9:15

2008-02-02T10:44:00.000-07:00

Yes We Can Song

Watch and be moved.

Post Debate/Snowstorm Thoughts

2008-02-01T22:23:00.000-07:00

Looking over my last post and my thoughts as they occurred as I watched the Democratic debate, I still am no closer to deciding between Hillary and Barack. And even with me asking both sides exactly their stances on various issues and being ~~harassed~~ ~~coerced~~ convinced why I should vote for Obama over Clinton, what is really going to help me make a decision is figuring out for myself why I should vote for one.

I believed in everything John Edwards said so it was very easy for me to support him until the end. I think that without him and his work over the past four years, the other Democratic candidates would not have had such detailed policies on a majority of issues. Unfortunately for John, the media didn't give him as much coverage as he deserved. You see, John talked about sticky issues no one wants to hear about like poor people who are forced to choose between medicine and food everyone, homeless people in New Orleans who are still waiting for the government's help, and veterans who are being ignored by all of society. And let's face it, the media doesn't want to cover those issues. They're not sexy or exciting; they scare people and make them depressed.

So, the media covered Obama "The Rock Star" and Clinton "The Spouse of our Last Favorite President, Bill." Not that this was a bad thing, per se. This scrutiny forced them to craft progressive and lasting policies and made the debates more exciting full of substance.

While I don't think anyone can ever take John's place in my heart, I am going to seriously look at everything the Hillary and Barck say/believe up and down and everything in between. It's a hard decision for me. And everyday, almost every hour, I change my mind again.

My first endeavor: Obama Rally, Saturday Night

Liveblogging the Democratic Debate. A first!

2008-01-31T19:55:00.000-07:00

So, to figure out who I should vote for on Feb. 5th, I'm watching tonight's Democratic debate.

610: I started watching a little late. I LOVE Hillary's earrings! But she shouldn't lean forward like that. I'm glad she mentioned Johnny boy!

612: She'll implement a health care plan like Edwards? Hmmmm...
Not more of the same! I like that line!

614: Obama...Health care, mentioned his mother, how did she die again? And she didn't have health care? Reducing costs of health care and providing subsidies to those who can't afford it. Hillary's plan forces people to buy health insurance?
Home foreclosures: what about those people who waited to buy a house? They get nothing? That's not fair, to punish them for being prudent.
Barack believes in reducing the influence of lobbyists and corporations in DC. Ok, I like. He was opposed to Iraq from the start...

618: I don't like Wolf Blitzer.

619: Question: Most Democrats want FULL coverage. YES! We do! Obama: Anybody who WANTS health care will be able to get it. He doesn't think there is anyone who doesn't want health care. Most people up to 25 years old are already covered under their parents plan, Senator O.

621: Hillary: Her passionate cause. Maximize choice...Did she just say she'd open Congress' coverage to everyone?

It's the fight of, "I'm more Democrat/Liberal than her/him!"

What about lowering the costs of health care in general? Like, the costs of medication, tests, doctors, emergency rooms.

Obama: Having meetings with all those interested in fixing health care and showing the meetings on CSPAN. Transparent government!
Clinton: telling insurance companies they can't cherry pick who they cover. Yeah, right. Drug companies should be included in the process to bring prices down. I think there will be some backroom dealings no matter what. Not EVERYTHING will be open.

631: Question: Raising taxes. I'm a proud tax and spend liberal!
WOO HOO! Good line Barack about the Reps not being fiscally prudent! Straight talk express lost some wheels...lol...Preventative health care costs is the way to go. But, will it really save that much money? I dunno. Who are the tax cuts for? Who are they imposed on? Rich people should pay more taxes, that's brilliant!

Was that George Constanza?!

Wolf: Clinton plan $110 Billion, will you tax the rich to pay for that?

Clinton: Tax richest people, $77 million per year. Stop giving insurance companies tax subsidies. Electronic medical records would save how much money?

Of course people will do well under the tax rates you implement, Senator C, your husband implemented it...

Question: Immigration--unemployment and low wages of African-Americans due to illegal immigrants.

Obama: Yes, yes, we KNOW you were an organizer in Chicago! He's diverse, he knows lots of people of color. WOW! Scapegoating?! Harsh! Control our borders, crack down on employers, pathway to citizen once they've been caught. The unemployment rate of all minority groups is due to a crazy economy.

Question: Illegal Immigrants getting driver's licenses

Clinton: Employers who exploit workers-needs to stop. We need a comprehensive, nationwide immigration policy. Helping Mexico develop their economy, yes! Republicans are living in another universe...hehehe...I don't know, I can see a lot of people driving without licenses and without insurance and then when they get in an accident with me, I'm screwed.

People sometimes have to drive to work...

Hilary sponsored comprehensive immigration reform before Barack joined the Senate. Oh snap! I don't understand how immigration became so politically divisive. The Republican solutions on immigration are not practical.

Wait, don't some conservatives also believe in not giving illegals DL's?

651: So, because someone took TIME to craft their plans automatically means yours is better, Barack?

653: Hillary: we need a strong Democratic Party to fix this problem.

Commercial!

658: Experience! Obama: A lot of Americans disagree that he doesn't have experience. Streets of Chicago line...again..Leadership that is needed, the ability to bring people together, transparency, "talking straight" to the American people. He's got skillz.

Clinton: First Lady experience helps? Go back 35 years...abused children, corporations, health insurance, rural Arkansans, test drugs, adoption system, world work, women's rights/humans rights--Chelsea!--public service is a trust!

Question: What if Mittster is the R nominee? Ceo of a country? Clinton: more than a business, government is not there to make a profit, we are there to help Americans--Current "President" sucks!

Obama: Mitt's a nerd.

704: Hilary: Big change! Woman or a black guy-quite a change!

707: Obama: He DOES sound like the Kennedy brothers...Who has the experience and can inspire people? I can!

710: We need change, but the same two families have been on the ticket for the past 40 years. I know! I totally wrote a blog about that!
Clinton: I am my own woman! "It took a Clinton to clean up after the first Bush and it might take another one to clean up after this one!" Yes! Good line!

712: Commerical and shots of famous people in the audience...Oh wait, this IS Hollywoodland. I'm eating Cocoa Puffs with Peanut Butter...yum...

Ron Paul!

716: IRAQ. Clinton: Withdraw in 60 days. All troops out in a year. Would involved her foreign and military advisers. How do we help the Iraqis who helped us? Tell the Iraqi government to take responsibility for their own country. Bush's plan to leave 130,000 troops in Iraq is irresponsible!--Ugly Betty girl is there!

719: Obama: We will end this war. McCain has a profound lack of understanding. We should not have troops to punt into Iran. We never should have been there in the first place. I am the best Democrat to go up against McCain.

722: Clinton: We need to tell Iraq and the region that we are not there to take care of them. Hey, that guy who got fired from Grey's Anatomy is there! Legislation to prevent Bush from passing legislation to have a permanent presence/bases in Iraq--her and Barack have worked together to stop that.

725: Question: Why did you vote against the 11th amendment before the invasion? Clinton: I believe we needed to have the UN Inspectors go in and see if we were needed.

729: I'm losing interest....

Obama: Do Americans not want progress in Iraq? Heck, yes! They want their children to come home.

731: I should do homework.

Clinton: Knowing what you know now, why can't you say your vote was a mistake? We should not have diverted our attention from Afghanistan! There are so many problems we will have to untangle. We have to prove that we are stronger than the Republicans on foreign policy. Let's go forward! Force is a last resort. She's not naive! "That is a good try, Wolf." She was told--personally--by the WH that they would use all the intelligence available.

Sadaam's a megalomaniac? Uh, didn't we put him in office?

So, I had kid issues and missed the rest of the debate.

Good night!

Technology is taking over!

2008-01-31T14:30:00.000-07:00

Lifehacker asked the other day if cell phones are replacing watches to tell time. I have to say that my cell phone has certainly replaced mine. As a former avid collector of watches, I have worn a watch everyday since high school. But during the summer, I don't wear one everyday. That's when I got my new cell phone a few years ago and soon, not wearing a watch became a habit.

It's fascinating how we change our habits when technology comes around.

The thoughts that keep me up at night. Seriously!

2008-01-30T12:28:00.000-07:00

The news from this morning concerning John Edwards has affected me greatly. When Adam texted me with the news at 8:15 this morning, I started to cry.

I started writing this post a few weeks ago and now, my thoughts are even more important.

Whenever I told someone I was supporting John Edwards until the day he drops out (or becomes the vice-presidential nominee), I was usually met with a snicker or a rolling of the eyes and the inevitable question, "So, when he doesn't win on Feb. 5th, who are you going to support then?" (Or in today's case, "Now that he's out, who are you going to support?")

I've thought a lot about this actually. I've had the conversation with two of my friends who are also supporting John about who we will throw our support behind ~~after Feb. 5th~~ now pretty much every day since Jan. 3rd.

Please note: I will support whoever the Democrat nominee is. But, I have a feeling we won't know who our nominee is until the August convention.

Now that Edwards is out, I will follow him to whomever he endorses. But it's not easy for me.

It's hard for me to choose between Obama and Clinton. There are good things about both and bad things about both. My decision to support John Edwards was not a hard one. I'm having a very difficult time choosing to support Barack or Hillary and it's not because of my support of John. Some of my thoughts about each include the following:

Barack Obama
While being a great public speaker, I don't know if he will be able to win nationwide. This thought keeps me up at night! What if a Republican DOES win in November?! I can't handle any more of this! I'll be moving to Canada for sure.

Barak has some great ideas but I'm not sure if he has the experience that is needed in a President. We currently have a president who lacks experience and fortitude we need in these tumultuous times; our country is worse off because of that inexperience. I'm not saying Obama is like Bush--AT ALL--Obama actually has principles and morals. He speaks so strongly about change in Washington and although I agree with him, I wonder if he really will be able to make that change. Will he constantly be fighting to get his policies implemented because he's seen as too inexperienced?

Granted, Edwards didn't have that much more experience in 2004 than Obama does now, but Edwards has spent the last 4 years talking and listening to people and crafting his platforms and ideas into workable solutions to our country's problems. Of course, just because he's planned a lot doesn't necessarily mean things will automatically be better, but I believe that he would be more able and willing to build consensus with those he needed to pass his initiatives.

But the questions that keep running through my head are, "Can Obama win in November? Can he win nationwide?" I don't know. I just don't know.

Hillary Clinton
One of the best things about Hillary becoming President is that we will have an automatic ambassador to the world in Bill. Other countries LOVE him and we'll be able to send him out and immediately fix our image that "President" Bush has destroyed. However, I wrote in a recent post that it's been 40 years since an incumbent President or Vice President has not been on the ballot. Our country IS tired of the same old BS that has been force-fed to us for 40+ years and by electing Hillary, we may just get more of the same. Also, our country needs someone who can help heal the divide. Is Hillary the one who can do that? I don't think so; if anything, I think she'll just divide us more.

The big thought that is floating around in my head is electability and likability. Sure, they are both likable enough but can they be elected? Can someone show me conclusive proof that they can win? Cause that may ease my mind a bit.

And while I know it shouldn't even be an issue--BUT IT IS--I wonder, is a majority of the country (50%+1 to be exact) more racist or more sexist? I've heard from a couple of people that while some people hate women and blacks equally, they wouldn't plot to assassinate the woman.

I know Edwards platform inside and out. The only thing I can do now is learn Hillary's and Obama's. Hopefully, that will make things easier for me.

Disappointment

2008-01-29T12:12:00.000-07:00

What should have been said after the SOTU last night.

When I heard this, I threw up a little bit in my mouth

2008-01-29T11:06:00.000-07:00

From Think Progress:

"You make me proud to be an American."

But the Feminist in me is conflicted.

2008-01-26T13:11:00.000-07:00

From Time's Swampland this morning:

My husband and I just got back from voting at our polling place in Spartanburg, SC at 10:30am. There were about 10 people in line (seven African-American, three white). The polling ladies said that things had been steady all morning. I intended to vote for Obama this morning and my husband for Hillary. But on the way to the polling place, my five year old daughter asked who we were voting for. I said, "Mommy is voting for a nice man named Barak Obama and Daddy is voting for a nice woman named Hillary Clinton." She replied, "But I thought only men were presidents." Out of the mouths of babes. So I took her in with me and let her push the button on the electronic screen for Hillary. (My husband ended up switching and voting for Obama at the last minute so it all evened out.)

Oh how I still love John Edwards and will still vote for him on Feb. 5th!

2008-01-23T20:30:00.000-07:00

The idiocy legacy of the Bush "presidency"

2008-01-23T15:38:00.000-07:00

Think Progress put out this nifty pocket chart to show how little progress our country has made since Bush became President. (Click on the link to see a larger version)

How To: Become a Delegate to the Democratic National Convention

2008-01-22T12:39:00.000-07:00

DISCLAIMER: This post contains my own personal opinion and ideas and is NOT endorsed by the DNC or the Democratic Party of Utah.

Because of my affiliation with the Democratic Party of Utah and the DNC Convention being in Denver this year, I am constantly asked how to become a delegate to the Convention. (I'm totally serious about the constantly part. I get asked at least once a day).

I give the same advice to pretty much everyone because it really isn't that hard; people just think it is.

We don't have many delegate positions here in Utah due to a majority of people having a penchant for always voting for republicans. I'm certain the delegate fight will be a contentious one on Friday, May 9th at the Cal Rampton Salt Palace Convention Center.

So, here's my general advice:

1. Start now. If you're going to run, make the decision ASAP and start now.

2. Secure endorsements. A lot of people in 2004 who were sent to the Convention in Boston has the endorsements of many elected and party officials. Get to these people before everyone else. It will help. (And, if you'd like mine, you have it. After all, I have won a statewide delegate race before).

3. Run a mini-campaign. Yes, you're going to need to actually campaign. This means attending the conventions of other counties outside your home county and ESPECIALLY having a presence at the Salt Lake County and State Conventions. Buy a table at each, print up some flyers. Make some buttons (I have a button-maker!) and write a stump speech. (You'll have to speak at convention anyway so prepare now).

And here's my specific advice:
1. If you live in the 2nd Congressional district and you're a woman, you have the best chance of getting a spot. There is one more female 2nd CD spot than the other districts.

2. Because we're Democrats, we allow everyone in our party. The DNC requires that we have a certain number of people within the following categories:
Women
People of Color
People with Disabilities
GLBT people
Young people (under 35)

If you fall into more than one of these categories, EVEN BETTER! And highlight that in your stump speech as a reason people should vote for you. (I kid you not, the more diverse you are, the better).

3. If none of these things appeal to you, you can always fork over big bucks to get to Denver's Convention. We have multiple opportunities for sponsorships ranging from $4,000 to $20,000. If you'd like more information, please do not hesitate to ask me. After all, I was elected to handle the money matters.

Also, there are some other lesser known ways to get to the convention. I'm more than happy to share my thoughts with you if you'd like. After all, I enjoy building a Democratic Majority.

40 years

2008-01-16T15:54:00.000-07:00

40 years is how long it has been since we've had a Presidential race that has not included either the current President or current Vice-President.

That was 1968. I think this is reason enough for you to tell people why they should vote when they ask, "Why is this year's Presidential race SO important?" For the first time in MY lifetime (and a LARGE majority of my friends'), we have the choice to choose a President who is not (directly) affiliated with the current Administration. We have the opportunity to make some serious changes in how our country is run. That thought gives me the chills.

1968 was the year Richard Nixon was elected President. It was also the time when voter apathy began. Nixon's reign caused people to start hating and fearing their government. They became mistrustful and bitter and instead of becoming enraged and more engaged, they became apathetic and stopped caring who ran their country. The election of Nixon also ushered in the wacky conservatism that we all know too well. It has swelled into unbelievable proportions; it's the norm for us--we accept it as just how things are.

My, how times have changed.

I fully believe there is a link between voter apathy and our choices for President. Because there really hasn't been a choice, our government has been steamrolling over our freedom taking away our civil liberties and forcing our country into unjust wars.

I think that voter turnout will be exceedingly high this year. People today are enraged and they will vote for the Democrats. We've already seen evidence of their desire for change by the few caucus/primaries so far this year--Record Turnout.

It's going to be an awesome Democratic victory on November 4th!

PS. Make sure you vote in your states' Primary if you have one!

Celebrity Endorsements

2008-01-11T23:05:00.000-07:00

While voters say celebrity endorsements don't really matter to them, it's interesting to see who is lining up behind whom.

Some of my favorites and big hitters:

Classic Rock Stars
John Edwards: Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt, John Mellencamp

I likes me some pro rastling and kung fu fightun'!
Huckabee: Chuck Norris, Ric Flair

I have a talk show, magazine, book club, diet regime DYNASTY!
Barack Obama: OPRAH!

I once played the President on TV. And better than the current guy, I might add!
Bill Richardson: Jimmy Smits & Martin Sheen

I am woman, hear me roar.
Hilary Clinton: Bah-bra Streisand, Carly Simon, Maya Angelou, Carole King, Billie Jean King

I believe in UFO's, that porn is okay, and I smoke weed everyday.
Dennis Kucinich: Shirley McLaine, Larry Flynt, Sean Penn, Woody Harrelson

The average American has never heard of me.
Rudy Guiliani: John O'Hurley, David Zucker

I once played an attorney on TV. I'm also really an attorney and former Congressman. And those toally qualify me to be President.
Fred Thompson: Fred Thompson

Good list of endorsements

Wonkette's list of endorsements

My Iowa Caucus and New Hampshire Primary Thoughts

2008-01-10T13:02:00.000-07:00

Let me begin by making a few prefaces.

First, I have been supporting John Edwards since November 2004 when I knew, deep down, he was going to run again. And, I will support John until he officially declares he is out of the race.

Second, I believe that a Democrat is going to win—-no matter what or who it is—-in November. Yes, I am idealistic (we’ve established that in other posts) but I believe that this country is pissed off with the direction our current “President” has led our country. It’s not just hard-core Democrats who are pissed. Moderates and even some Republicans are sick of what’s been going on for the past 4 years.

Third, I don’t think anyone else should drop out until Feb. 5th (aka Super Tuesday).

Okay.

So, I wasn’t too excited about Iowa for many reasons. I don’t know why, but, it just didn’t get me excited like it did other people. It was JUST a caucus—-not even a good sample of the electorate in Iowa. Maybe I’m wrong about it’s unimportance but still, I could not get excited about Jan. 3rd. The results of Iowa were very surprising. I mean, John Edwards had done SO much there and only 2% of the population in Iowa is African-American. I don’t think the race for either party’s nomination is over. Many people I know said, Iowa like the first game in the World Series. There is still a long way to go.

I was a tad more excited about New Hampshire. Again, I don’t know why. Maybe it was because the voters there tend to buck polls and trends and change their minds at the last minute. ANYTHING can happen in New Hampshire and it can be drastically different from Iowa. New Hampshire also had an actual voting primary. To me, elections are way more fun than caucus meetings.

A couple of my friends and I have been having the discussion since last week about what if Edwards steps out before Feb. 5th. Who will we support then? We have discussions about the electability of Barack Obama and the power of the Clinton machine. Which one will be a better President? Who can beat Romney? Huckabee? McCain?

I’m going to hold out til the end for people to pull their heads out and vote for Edwards. I’ve seen some polls (and I’ll find them and post them…) that shows that Edwards is the ONLY Democrat who can beat ALL of the Republicans—-including McCain. Some do not like his “populist” message to which I reply, “Obama is just as populist, he’s just vague about it.” John has actual ideas and plans on how to fix our country. I haven’t seen the detailed plans from the other campaigns.

I’m starting to like Obama the more I read about him and listen to his amazing speeches. I was there in Boston in 2004 on the convention floor. I heard his famous “Audacity of Hope” speech. He is an amazing speaker (he reminded me of President Bill who spoke just two days previous) and I felt the energy in the Fleet Center. He has the charisma, the media attention, and the hope so many of us need right now. But can he win? Is he too inexperienced? I’ll be digging more to answer these questions for myself over the next few days.

Out of all the Democratic candidates for President, only Clinton, Richardson, and Biden have the extensive foreign policy experience we desperately need. (On the other side, only McCain does, but he’s like 100-years-old so I don’t think WWII tactics are going to help us much). Well, Richardson and Biden are out so if we really want to fix America’s foreign policy, Clinton’s the way to go. Plus, with her, we get a package deal with Bill. He’s an automatic ambassador to the world! He will immediately go out around the world to fix our tarnished image and the whole world will LOVE us because they LOVE him. And, the 12-year-old girl in me who once wanted to be the first woman President is deep down saying, “Go Hilary! Show the men you can do it. Go!”

Well, these are my initial thoughts. It's just going to get more and more nail-biting, I know it.

It's an exciting Election Year so far. I can't wait until November!

Some very interesting and empoweing things to think about

2008-01-10T12:55:00.000-07:00

Voting for Hilary?

It makes me think....

Catching Up

2008-01-09T22:10:00.000-07:00

I like to write on this blog daily but with the lack of The Internets at home since October, it has been very hard for me to do that. As such, I would write posts at work and never get around to posting them. Well, have no fear! I now have at least one of The Internets at home and will be posting regularly again. I will be posting stuff I wrote a while ago; it may be a tad out-of-date, so don't get TOO upset with me.

Like, this post.

I wrote it to be posted on Christmas Day but (surprise!) found myself without internet access. That's why it's dated 12/25/07 but it was only posted today. So sue me.

Funny Comment of the Day

2008-01-09T10:44:00.001-07:00

As seen on the online comments of the NY Times Op-Ed piece my Gloria Steinem yesterday:

"I'll bet that Barack Obama cries sometimes, as does Bush, as does McCain. The only person I suspect does not cry is Mitt Romney though he probably has hired some very talented people to cry for him."

Matt S., Wisconsin

Sexism in Presidential Politics

2008-01-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

Are men, specifically older, white men, more likely to vote for an African-American man over a white woman?

I never really thought about this question until recently. I guess being a successful woman in politics and having many successful female mentors in politics, I've never really noticed. Today, when people started saying that Hilary is weak because she teared up when speaking, I thought, "If any of the men were to do that, no one would think anything about it."

As I've been talking to more friends about who they will support if their nominee doesn't make it, the questions that seem to keep coming up are, "Who is more likable, Hilary or Barack?" And, "Who is more electable, Hilary or Barack?"

I was listening to an old professor speak about the Iowa caucuses and what he thought was going to happen in New Hampshire & beyond and he said something that I haven't been able to stop thinking about. He said that his brothers--well-educated and deeply conservative--would never vote for "an uppity woman." In fact, they would vote for an African-American man long before ever voting for a woman for President.

As a woman, this disturbs me greatly. But then, I can kinda understand it too. In small ways, I have felt the sexism in politics. I've chosen just to ignore it. I also have seen how women in politics are treated. It's usually unfair and I have to give kudos to those women for putting themselves out there.

This notion of sexism when deciding a Presidential candidate really makes sense, once you think about it. I mean, women didn't get the right to vote for 50 YEARS after African-American men did. Many men still view and treat their wives as "property." Many American religions are still very sexist and demeaning towards women. Women still do not make the same amount of money in the same kinds of jobs as men. Men are more likely than women to get job promotions and raises.

As a progressive and a mother, this saddens me. My daughter is adamantly supporting Hilary because, "We've never had a woman President before and it's about time we did!" In her world today (and the way I've raised her), women are just as important and equal as men. But what she doesn't see is the lingering sexism that still exists. It's shocking to me because even in Pakistan--PAKISTAN!--a woman was elected as the Prime Minister. Are we so far behind that we're behind Pakistan?!

Will men vote for an African-American man before they vote for a woman?

Would a woman make a better President?

We don't know. I'm not saying we should support Hilary cause she's a woman or Barack cause he's a black man. But I do think we need to really look past all that. I do think we have a real opportunity this year to do something great--elect a qualified and competent person to serve as our President.

The NH Debates

2008-01-05T20:31:00.000-07:00

On the Republican side: A bunch of white men. Such diversity!

And on the Democratic side: One woman, one African-American man, one Hispanic-American man, and a white man who looks and talks like a movie star. It really is going to be too hard to choose.

Sign the Petition to Impeach Cheney

2007-12-27T12:26:00.001-07:00

Via Rep. Wexler's website.

It's fast, it's easy, and it needs to be done.

War is over, if you want it.

2007-12-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

Last week, I rented "The U.S. v. John Lennon," a documentary about the late Beatle and the case the United States Government mounted against him in the 70's. I'm a huge Beatles fan and was super excited to see this movie. But I didn't realize how much of an impact it would have on me.

The movie discusses John's life in the mid 70's when Nixon was in office. It shows how terrified Nixon was of John and how he did everything in his power to stop him. And why did Nixon hate John so badly? Cause John was a very famous, very outspoken critic of the Vietnam War and people not only listened to him, they did what he said. John Lennon was a serious threat to Richard Nixon and Nixon, being the great narcissist he was, could not have any of that.

Ten minutes into the the movie, I said to myself, "We need someone like John Lennon now!" This made me start thinking about how more people are absolutely outraged by the Iraq War but that there isn't an actively publicized mass resistance towards it like the Vietnam War 30 years ago. Protests and marches were happening monthly then. People were arrested and killed by their government for being against that war.

I used to hate Yoko Ono until I saw this movie. I always have felt she was the reason The Beatles broke up. But I realized that because of her, John became more willing to speak out on the things he felt were important. Before she became a significant part of his life, he always seemed a little restrained when speaking in public (after the Jesus debacle). Yoko was a silent and driving force in helping John find his non-singing voice.

You can also see during this time that John's music made just as big of an impact on world events as his statements and public trials did:
Imagine. Give Peace A Chance. Power to the People. Instant Karma. Happy Xmas (War Is Over).

John and Yoko's message during this time was so simple: Just give peace a chance. We don't know if it'll work until we try. So, hey, why not?

It's a message that transcends time, countries, conflicts, and political ideologies.

Music can change the world. And John Lennon is proof.

I hope that, during this season--during this time when we usually forget what this season is about--we can find a way to stop the tragic deaths of hundreds of thousands of Iraqi citizens and thousands of American soldiers soon. I may be idealistic, but I really do believe that the war can end if we really want it to. We don't necessarily need someone like John Lennon to show us the way, we just need to make sure our voices are heard loud and clear next November.

CREW's Top Ten Ethical Standards of 2007

2007-12-22T15:09:00.000-07:00

I highly enjoy CREW's list every year.

No new enforcement mechanisms for congressional ethics;

Ted Stevens still sitting on Senate Appropriations;

Senate Ethics Committee looking into Sen. Craig, but not Sen. Vitter;

Millions of missing White House emails still unaccounted for;

Rep. Murtha’s abuse of the earmarking process remains unchecked;

Lurita Doan remains chief of GSA despite illegal conduct;

White House covering up its role in the firings of the U.S. Attorneys;

No Child Left Behind funds directed to Bush fundraisers who provide inadequate reading materials for kids;

Court decision regarding search of Jefferson’s office limits ability of DOJ to investigate other corrupt lawmakers; and

FEMA knowingly let Katrina victims live in hazardous trailers

To download the full list, click here.

Best story this Holiday season

2007-12-19T14:23:00.001-07:00

Dear Santa: Please stop the bombs.

Full story at Democratic Underground:

Here's what Karrar Haider, a 10-year-old Shi'ite boy at a school in eastern Baghdad, told Santa he wants this year for the holidays:

"I have one wish to ask Santa Claus. Please bring peace to my country. Stop the bombs so I can play with my friends again."

May we all have Peace on Earth and Good Will Towards Men this year.

A very valid question.

2007-12-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

I should have posted this last week, but I forgot.

I wrote my senior thesis on the SCOTUS case, Bush v. Gore, 2000. Even though it was almost 5 years ago when I wrote it, I still get in heated arguments with people about how the Court NEVER should have even grated certiorari, let alone decided this case.

It's a serious travesty of justice when something like this happens and as Americans, we should be absolutely enraged. Our Founding Fathers added something in the Constitution called, Checks & Balances. This theory/thought/talking point/ideal was put into place so the people would trust their government. With it, we know that each branch of government has a legal way of keeping check on the other two branches.

The Constitution clearly states what needs to occur when the general election in the Presidential race is too close to call. It does. So why did SCOTUS decide? Good question.

And I hope it never happens again.

They scare me too Elizabeth

2007-12-17T11:18:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Day
"He seems like a nice charming guy... doesn’t believe in evolution and has some nutty views about what it is we should do about ending violence in our inner city — we should make sure all of our young people are armed. Republicans scare me."

-- Elizabeth Edwards, quoted by ABC News, describing GOP presidential candidate Mike Huckabee.

HT: Political Wire

Really? You think?

2007-12-17T11:16:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Day
"There’s no question that at times I think some of the Democrats look at me sort of like the... eccentric uncle, perhaps even the odd uncle at the family gatherings: ‘We like him, but every now and then he says things that makes us wonder.’"

-- Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-CT), quoted by the New Haven Register.

HT: Political Wire

Fun Holiday Democraticness

2007-12-13T12:11:00.000-07:00

I just saw this parody of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" from Rep. John Dingell on The Hill. So funny! (And so true)!

My favorite part:

“Drive faster”, they screamed at their non-union drivers
“The House passes bills as consistent as a geyser”
But then a phone rang, with an audible tweeter
It was none other than the Senate Minority Leader
“Sir I have plan to stop the Christmas cheer”
“One that is dastardly, mean and quite insincere.”

“Do tell!” said the listener, his ears all atwitter
“We need a good plan, the pick of the litter.”
“We have no agenda, the Party’s a mess
“Our presidential frontrunner too often wears a dress
“Tax cuts for the rich failed, so too has fear, war and bigotry
“So what I propose are filibusters and stopping conference committees”

If I were a Republican, I wouldn't vote for any of them either.

2007-12-12T11:48:00.000-07:00

Actually, if I were a Republican, I'd probably shoot myself. (Inside joke: If I lived in any other state, I'd be a Republican). (That isn't true, that is why it is a joke).

Anywho, a recent NY Times/CBS News poll shows that Democrats LOVE their Presidential candidates while Republicans can't stand theirs. Frankly, I don't blame them. White men just do NOTHING for me. I mean, just LOOK at the Dem candidates!
That's a hot group of people, if you ask me. (OK, just John and Barack and Joe). But, none of the Republicans are attractive, which is why no Republican is supporting them, so says I!

Linky to the polly:
Republicans R Going to Lose

Save the World, Deliver Some Toys. It's all in a day's work really.

2007-12-11T09:44:00.000-07:00

U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Needs Your Help!

The United States Marine Corps Reserve in Utah is in dire need of volunteers
to help out with this year's annual US Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots
Campaign.

90% of the Marine force in Utah is busy this holiday season. 180 Marines
currently deployed in Iraq and another 100 busy training for their 2008
deployment means that there are not enough Marines in Utah to pick up and
distribute toys.

The Marines are very short staffed for the distribution weeks and need your
help. They especially need some people that speak Spanish to assist with
translation.

Round up your family and friends and join the US Marines for a grand holiday
experience.

Please, cut and paste this post and email to anyone you know who can make
the time to do a little with the men and women who do so much.

CONTACT TO VOLUNTEER

Laura Sexton
435-783-5806
435-640-7223
laura@sextonoffroad.com
military@allwest.net

For readers in other states, visit Toys For Tots.com and look for a
volunteer opportunity near you.

http://www.toysfortots.org/

Thanks to Jeff, for spearheading this endeavor.

I'm a proud devil worshiper!

2007-12-07T14:53:00.000-07:00

More proof that Bill O'Reilly is CrAzY!

http://thinkprogress.org/2007/12/07/oreilly-progressive-blog-readers-devil-worshippers/

Huckabee, Huckabee, Huckabee!

2007-12-05T10:14:00.000-07:00

Huckabee is brewing up a storm! Where did this surge come from?

All I can say is that it's good for Dems!

More claification needed

2007-11-27T12:22:00.000-07:00

In my last post about Romney and his religion, the following comment was posted:

Starting To Learn said...
It seems like a waste of time for Romney to try to "clear up" misconceptions of Mormon Doctrine in that if individuals really wanted to know what the Mormon church believes and teaches, those teachings are readily available on the church's websites, mormons.org and lds.org.

I have to respectfully disagree.

When someone runs for President, his/her entire life is showcased. Every nuance, every word and action throughout their life is intensely scrutinized. The religion of each candidate has been and will be discussed and dissected now and during his/her tenure. Like I said in my previous post, our current "President" made religion a big deal in his election claiming to be the most righteous man for the job. (Didn't he say in the 2000 race that he talked to God regularly?)

I don't think one's religion should have anything to do with whether or not he/she is qualified but since it IS an issue and since SO many people obviously care about it, then it is up the candidates to either dispel the rumors or tell the voters why it's not a big deal.

Confronting the religious detractors is especially key to Romney's win. Plain and simple, he wants to win. And in order to win, he's going to have to lay out every aspect of his life for everyone to see. In order to sway certain people to vote for him (i.e. the religious right), he'll have to show them that, as a Mormon, he's not crazy and that Mormonism really isn't as kooky as everyone claims.

Voters, even the most active ones, are quite lazy. We get our news from 30-second sound bites or read a few choice articles about the candidates we like. We can't expect voters to earnestly learn about the details of anything--especially Presidential candidates. This is why it's up to the candidates and their campaigns to tell us about themselves and why we should or shouldn't vote for them. This includes talking about one's religion.

Do I believe that one's religion will make them a bad/good President? No. But if one won't talk about such a prominent factor about their life, well, that speaks volumes about their character.

Clinton won't beat a Republican (even Huckabee!)? I highly doubt that.

2007-11-27T11:10:00.000-07:00

How accurate are Internet polls really?

Here is Zogby's latest: http://www.zogby.com/news/ReadNews.dbm?ID=1393

And, here is a very good skeptical analysis of the results: http://www.time-blog.com/swampland/2007/11/pollstercom_zogby_internet_pol.html?xid=rss-swampland

Romney and his religion

2007-11-21T10:03:00.000-07:00

Wonkette wrote yesterday a semi-serious post about how Romney is avoiding the subject about his religion. Now, I'm still on the fence about if one's religion should even be a deciding factor in the Presidential race. But, our current "President" made it quite an issue and a majority of Americans affiliate with some organized religion. Obviously, it's important to people.

The fact that Romney just completely avoids the subject is fishy--not just to me, but to a lot of people. Now, although Wonkette is satire, this post brings up a very valid point:

Kennedy faced this sort of innuendo and doctrinal questions about being a Catholic in the 60s and survived. Maybe Mormon doctrine and practice really does seem weirder to non-Mormon Christians than Catholicism does to non-Catholic Christians, but I don’t really think so. What seems weird, at least to me, is the fact that he’s so reticent to talk about or even really defend his religion in any significant public way. There is a lot of false information around and people are already talking about it, so it’s strange that a member of a religion that openly encourages proselytization would have so much trouble (or so little interest in) talking about his religion.

Even devout Mormons have to read this and nod their heads and say, "You know, that's absolutely correct! Why doesn't Romney dispel the myths that are floating around out there about our religion?" (I have my own theories, but, they may or may not be very nice).

Laugh for the day

2007-11-20T10:03:00.001-07:00

Certainly, Mr. Hasselhoff

Customer: Um, excuse me, I ordered a root beer float, but you gave me a beer float.
Burger girl: Oh my god... I'm sorry.
Customer: I mean, I like your custard, and I like beer, but...
Random guy: Hey, can I have it?

--The Shake Shack

Overheard by: craig and cory

via Overheard in New York, Nov 20, 2007

More fun quizzes!

2007-11-16T11:33:00.000-07:00

http://glassbooth.org/

Not outraged enough yet?

2007-11-16T11:26:00.000-07:00

Read this.

Yes, that is an "ally" of the U.S. you're reading about. Wow.

Hat tip: Jeremiah

Candidates in a Box

2007-11-16T10:41:00.000-07:00

This was fun.

Candidates in a Box, NY Times, 11/16/2007

Something fun from Politico...

2007-11-08T11:35:00.000-07:00

I thought this was fun and it's kept me entertained for at least 10 minutes.

"You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one"

2007-11-06T04:33:00.000-07:00

I don't usually write about local politics here but since it's Election Day and I can't pass up an opportunity to post about Election Day, I'm going to treat with you with "The Top 10 Reasons I'm Voting for Ralph Becker for Salt Lake City Mayor."*

10. While that other guy might be "the reasonable guy," Ralph is the nice guy. In the last few years, I have gotten to know Ralph and am still shocked about how absolutely NICE he is.

9. Planning. As a professional planner/environmental attorney, I believe Ralph has the most experience to plan for the future of Salt Lake City. We desperately need some good planning and expanding instead of the crap that's been going on for 12 years. Salt Lake City is kinda in a crisis. Main street and other downtown businesses have been destroyed because of bad planning.

8. He walks the walk and talks the talk. He is so committed to sound environmental policies that he usually walks or rides his bike everywhere (but when he does drive, it's in his Jeep powered by biodiesel). He also lives minimally, uses recycled paper for everything and one can tell he genuinely cares about the environment.

7. He's committed. Even when Ralph has not had an opponent as a State Rep, he still canvassed his entire district so he could get to know his constituents better. He usually knocked on every door and would stick around and listen to people for as long as it took. A few years ago, at the Avenues Street Fair, his opponent for the House was at a table next to the one I was at. Her husband said hello to people as they passed by and if they stopped to talk to him, he would give them information. One young couple said, "Oh, I'm sorry. I moved to the Avenues because of Ralph Becker and would never vote for anyone else." During his mayoral campaign, Ralph, his staff and volunteers have canvassed the city twice. Why? Because he cares.

6. He's Blueprint Man! Have you read his blueprints? I must say, they are quite extensive. I know that he has spent a lot of time thinking about these plans and how to make SLC a better place to live. He chose to live here and would do whatever it took to make it a great place to live for his children and grandchildren.

5. He's hot. For a guy who's old enough to be my dad, well, let's just say he's attractive (as well as the men on his campaign staff).

4. A campaign like no other. I believe that professors, political scientists, campaigners, elected officials and the like will be talking about this campaign for years. It was the best run campaign I have ever seen. It was well organized and nothing was taken for granted. The canvassing effort the campaign implemented was unlike anything I have ever seen. They targeted so well, knew exactly how many votes they needed and figured out who those voters were. It was amazing to witness and I wish I had jumped on board sooner.

3. It's fun to say, "I'm Ralphing for Mayor!"

2. Honesty and decency are hard to find these days in elected officials. But you can find them in Ralph. For years he has fought for those who are not usually represented and sponsored legislation for more ethics and accountability for his colleagues on Capitol Hill. Even when he was the only one voting for, he never backed down from his position on issues. He is true to his word.

1. Because of what happened Sunday. As the crowd waited for President Clinton on Sunday, we listened to multiple speakers and chatted with each other. I was sitting on the front row, on the aisle. Ralph's seat was next to mine, across the aisle. As he walked in looking for his seat, he stopped to shake my hand. Suddenly, people began to clap and cheer. Soon, the crowd around us was on their feet cheering for him. He looked at me and mouthed, "What's going on?" I replied, "They are cheering for you, Ralph, the next Mayor of Salt Lake." He squeezed my hand tighter and tears began to well in his eyes. He was very touched. He could barely say thank you. I believe that Ralph, unlike many elected officials and politicians that I know, is in this business because he believes in helping people. It's not about him, it's about all of us.

*Technically, I voted on Friday.

Hail to the Chief

2007-11-05T14:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, along with 1500 other people and most of my friends, I met President Bill Clinton. Raising money for his wife, he was able to stop in good old Utah and rake in about $350,000 for her. Now, while I'm not necessarily supporting Hilary, (see my ad above), I think her husband is absolutely amazing. Despite what many think about his personal life, he implemented some great initiatives and the country was in great hands.

It was exciting to hear him speak; he spoke for 45 minutes without notes and was quoting facts and figures and quotations. It was truly amazing.

On Stupid People

2007-11-02T10:17:00.001-06:00

Have people learned nothing from Hurricane Katrina?!

From the state that gave us Bush and Kitty Harris, I really can't say I'm surprised.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/02/us/02everglades.html?ex=1351742400&en=d37482c20b25e0c3&ei=5124&partner=permalink&exprod=permalink

Why Mr. President, what nice hair you have today!

2007-11-01T12:02:00.000-06:00

If we were to judge Presidential candidates by how they look, who would win? (My bet's on dreamy John Edwards and his luxurious locks).

The (kinda sad) fact is that Americans have not elected a President without a full head of hair since JFK in 1960. The reason?

The influence and prominence of television in peoples' homes.

But what is this odd phenomenon of only electing Presidents with bushy manes? Are they more trusting? More good looking?

Will Americans continue this trend in 2008? If so, that means Mr. 9-11 will NOT be elected. (Oh, sad).

I find interesting, that's all. http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1675631,00.html

Presidential Lawyers

2007-10-31T11:49:00.000-06:00

The NY Times had a nice piece this weekend about how many of the Presidential front runners are attorneys.

The article discusses the unique legal stylings of each attorney candidate (Romney's is not discussed as he's never actually practiced law--he only has the degree. How silly is that? Oh wait....) and how these stylings will and could be used once President.

The types of law each has practiced varies greatly and the expertise of each is very different and says a lot about the character of each.

Guliani is known as a hard-nosed prosecutor who even went after his own colleagues. This shows he's not afraid of anyone or anything. (Another Cheney, perhaps?)

Thompson not only played an attorney on TV, but also is a Washington attorney who knows how to play the game. Read: He's too slick to be President.

Clinton was a tough litigator who knows her Con Law very well. That tough-as-nails persona is seen in every aspect of her life. Her knowledge and tenacity will bode her (and the country) well.

Obama is a professor of law and has fought for civil rights since the beginning of his career. He will continue those fights and will carefully and judiciously make decisions.

Edwards is best known as a great trial attorney but is also known as being very cautious in the cases he chooses. He usually chooses the ones he knows he can win. I think this is important. Unlike our current "President," Edwards thoughtfully chooses what battles he wants to fight.

Even though Wonkette makes fun of it, I actually think it's a good thing that our President will be an attorney. I mean, who is better suited to uphold, enforce and help write the laws then a lawyer?