America has gone mad for McCain’s head cheerleader and VP pick, Pamela Anderson Sarah Palin. Her appearance has injected a new interest into the presidential race, ignited the crazy Christian ‘base’ of the republican party, and utterly derealed any conversations about Presidential issues like say the economy, immigration, foreign policy, the environment, and T.W.A.T (The War Against Terror).
I’ve actually found myself feeling a little bad for John McCain as detractors of the Presidential wannabe keep talking about his imminent death and the fact that someone who thinks the world is just 6000 years old could become the ‘leader of the free world.’ McCain might be an old man who can’t remember how many houses he owns, but surely it’s a little unkind to be counting each passing day as another moment stolen from clutches of death.
I’m not interested in speculating on Senator McCain’s longevity but instead in a question that, to me at least, seems far more interesting and relevant, that question being; How can the mother of five, including a baby with special needs, even consider running for the position of Vice President of the United States? Granted, the VP’s job is pretty much a cheerleaders role, but it’s still a demanding one and a position that sets the tone for that persons future.
Am I being sexist when I ask this question? Is this one of those questions a progressive thinking individual should not dare utter? Is counting down the days until a healthy mans death more acceptable than raising the question of motherhood and a highly demanding job?
I wonder how many other “ordinary hockey Moms” would put their careers before their children, or decide to take a demanding high profile job when they have a baby with special needs? Maybe I’m being old fashioned here, but there’s something about Palin’s willingness to set aside her duties as mother which feels a little off to me in the same way that John Edwards campaign to become president while his wife fought cancer also seemed a little off.
Matt Damon said in a recent interview that the possibility of “an ordinary hockey Mom” becoming President was like “a really bad Disney movie.” Some might call Palin’s story the epitome of the American dream, and in many respects it is and therefore criticizing it feels like a double standard. But if we’re going to concede that being a good mother is a tough job, then is the kind of person who bails out on that duty really the kind of person people should aspire to put in the Whitehouse? I’m note sure.
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Working Mother Questions ‘Irrelevant,’ Palin Says
TechPresident
Check their facts at factcheck.org
From the Mom files
Is Palin is utterly unqualified?
Wrote the following comment on Sep 20, 2008 at 12:17 am
Hmm, tough one. I guess the question is, should any parent become President or VP? Would the same criticism be levelled at a man? I doubt it. Why? Well because if it’s a guy we assume the Mother is looking after the kids. Now of course in this instance, I’m guessing Mr Palin will be doing the traditional role of bringing up the kids, but as a parent, I’d say that I wouldn’t fancy doing that job on my own, but then maybe they have enough money to get help and he won’t be doing it on his own?
As this whole Palin debacle continues, I struggle to believe the American people can be stupid enough to vote in another Republican administration. If the last 2 weeks have shown us anything, its that the Republican ticket can talk the talk but they can’t walk the walk. I haven’t heard them give a single hard policy pledge. Its all the same old crap, Obama will raise taxes etc. I’m shocked at the blatant lies they are allowed to tell in the ads, they’ve been heavily criticised by the independant factcheck organisation for their blatant exageration, and taking statements out of context. Roll on the debates I say, because the more Obama talks about the issues, the more feckless McCain/Palin appear. We’ve now got McCain crying out for regulation in the financial sector even though up until a couple of days ago he thought the economy was fundamentally sound, and despite the fact that he sees himself as a deregulator.
Come on Americans, its time to not vote with your heart, but your head, the issues are too important to vote with historic party allegiance and to vote for the guy you think is best placed to lead. Do you want the old forgetful bloke who admits the economy is not his strong point (he’s a D student) and the lipstick wearing pitbull who thinks being able to see Russia from her house qualifies her for VP to run the Whitehouse for another 4 years? Do you really think these guys wl make things better for Americans? Its quite clear from the figures that under McCain the richest Americans will get the biggest tax cuts while those earning less than $20,000 will receive $19 as opposed to $519 from Obama. If you are in the $37,000 to $66,000 bracket, you will save $319 under McCain and $1042 under Obama, once you get in to the $100,000 region the differences are less dramatic but you still save money with Obama. Of course tax cuts aren’t everything but McCain’s lies about this re really starting to piss me off as many will simply accept his remarks without checking if they are factually correct.
I would say you couldn’t be that stupid but then you voted for Bush TWICE so anything’s possible!
Its quite clear that McCain or Palin have no idea how to fix America. all they have is a very aggressive campaign staff that are going to try and bluff their way in to the Whitehouse, well why not, that strategy has worked quite well over the last 8 years.
Wrote the following comment on Sep 20, 2008 at 12:49 am
My vote can go either way, but at this time having been for McCain at first I’m now leaning toward Obama BECAUSE of McCain’s cynical and tactical VP choice.
Wrote the following comment on Sep 20, 2008 at 1:02 pm
I have to admit the Saturday Night skit was a funny one. Matt on the other hand looked like he was about the cry any second while he was talking. You said earlier in your post that things like the economy, immigration… have gone out the window, but I think and at least I know for myself, that I like conservatives like Palin because of her position on conservative issues. Matt though he said he wouldn’t know enough about her in 8 weeks seemed to have his decision already made up. Anyway, I’m still learning about her, but am leaning towards someone who is pro life and wants to lower taxes. Our economy is having some issues. Can you imagine what it would be like if my employer who already pays close to 50% of the company profits to the government payed more. I don’t think I’d be getting a raise anytime soon, nore would other companies who are being taxed buy our services. But guess that’s not your question. I’m not sure if a mom should be president it’s not sexism it’s just life, kids need parents and young kids need moms but I would rather have that than a Jimmy Cater during these times.
Wrote the following comment on Sep 20, 2008 at 3:58 pm
Two words for you – Margaret Thatcher!
Your attitude toward this woman is so absolutely sexist it makes me wonder what makes you so afraid of a woman leader? What’s wrong Simon Jones. Don’t the girls like you? Are you a failure with women? Does a strong woman intimidate you?
I don’t care for Palin’s politics but your suggestion that a woman is somehow meant to stay at home is disgusting. Women are not ornaments Simon Jones!
Wrote the following comment on Sep 20, 2008 at 5:52 pm
Margaret Thatcher wasn’t breast feeding when she took office. Melinda, did you even read my post? It’s not a working mother question because the office of Vice President isn’t just some job that normal working Moms have. She has a child with special needs, a pregnant teenage daughter, and two other kids at home also. Okay, so she’s managed to be a Mom and a mayor and Gov, but those jobs are in completely different orbits to the office of VP.
I’m not going to answer your ridiculous questions but I do find it interesting that you got so angry at me asking a simple question. Let me put it another way, I wouldn’t have asked the same question of Hillary Clinton because Hillary is not mom to a very young family and special needs baby. It’s just a question though, rather than throwing puerile insults at me why don’t you just answer my question?
Look, I was similarly concerned that John McCain might also have been making an error when he chose to continue seeking the democratic parties nomination after his wife found out she had cancer. My concern there was that should she have died then he would have been badly positioned to deal with two grieving children. These are not sexist or unfair questions and this isn’t a ‘working mother’ question either.
So Melinda, if you have any answer to my question then I would be interested in reading that, but if all you can do is sling angry and badly aimed insults at me then perhaps your anger would be better vented elsewhere.
Oh and hey Bob, 50% tax? I think maybe either you have your figures a little screwy or your company needs to invest in a better accountant :-)
Wrote the following comment on Sep 20, 2008 at 5:58 pm
Let’s get real. There is nothing comparable between the job and responsibilities of the average working-mom and working-mom vice president.
The real issue here has nothing to do with being a working mom. It’s Palin’s broad lack of experience to be the vice president.
Wrote the following comment on Sep 20, 2008 at 9:48 pm
Okay, I’m sorry but I have to say to Wilvo that I find his general attitude quite objectionable, aggressive, and annoyingly superior.
Calling us as an entire nation “stupid” I think shows this guy to be something of an idiot himself, if only in his willingness to behave like such a belligerent jerk.
I don’t mind anyone pointing out facts and suppositions to me, but it just rubs me the wrong way when someone start wagging their finger.
As for the question you raised Simon, I think you should read Joan Williams article on this subject in the Huffington Post.
Wrote the following comment on Sep 21, 2008 at 3:48 pm
sorry I come accross that way Doug, but the world is pretty pissed off that you’ve subjected the rest of us to 8 years of Bush. Of course I’m not labeling all Americans as stupid but come on, you are the leading Democracy in the world and you voted for an idiot, not once but twice. Quite often I’m making posts quite quickly and I don’t spend much time making them smooth round the edges. I can assure you I’m not an idiot and I’m actualy quite nice x x
Wrote the following comment on Sep 23, 2008 at 3:17 am
Why would anyone with young children want such a job? I don’t think anyone asked John F. Kennedy the same question when he decided to hit the campaign trail with a pregnant wife and arguably caused at least one miscarriage due the stress he exerted on her in his run for Presidency.
Did John Jr. and Caroline hinder his effectiveness as President? I’ve never heard any historical commentary to that effect. All these people who decry Sarah Palin’s acceptance of the Vice-Presidential nomination are just buying into a double standard that has kept women from achieving full equality. For Christ’s sake, doesn’t Palin have a husband who can take care of the kids while she’s helping run the country?
Wrote the following comment on Sep 26, 2008 at 7:22 pm
Sarah Palin is the best thing to happen to this country since Ronald Reagan. She’s as real and wholesome as apple pie. And, she scares hell out of the lefties as the antithesis of what they stand for.
Wrote the following comment on Sep 29, 2008 at 3:12 pm
I am haunted by the family pictures of the Palins during political photo-ops, showing the eldest daughter, now pregnant with her own child, cuddling the family’s newborn. When Mom and Dad both work full-time (no matter how many folks get involved with the children), it becomes a somewhat chaotic situation.
Certainly, if a child becomes ill and is rushed to the hospital, and you’re on the hotline with both Israel and Iran as nuclear tempers are flaring, where’s your attention going to be? Where should your attention be? Well, once you put your hand on the Bible and make that oath, your attention has to be with the government of the United States of America.
Couldn’t the Republican Party find one competent female with adult children to run for Vice President with McCain? I realize his advisors probably didn’t want a “mature” woman, as the Democrats keep harping on his age. But really, what kind of role model is a woman whose fifth child was recently born with a serious issue, Down Syndrome, and then goes back to the job of Governor within days of the birth?
Wrote the following comment on Sep 30, 2008 at 5:57 pm
Sorry for the delay in approving those last three comments. I’ve been on the road and it’s been a bit of a task getting the internet.
On the subject of Palin though, I’m alarmed that the poor woman is having her civil liberties so badly abused. She’s not being allowed to speak in her own words to the press, poor dear. It’s like they’re afraid she’ll say something silly which is totally wrong. If only the President and McCain would bring her in to help with the economic crisis after all she has loads of experience with that because she lives pretty close to a bank don’t you know.
I loved her interview with Katie Couric. The bit where she talks about her proximity to Russia will surely go down in American political history. It’s so funny I almost feel embarrassed for the woman! :-)
Watch it… https://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=nokTjEdaUGg
In that video above Matt Damon describes the possibility of her being the VP of the United States as a “bad disney movie”, so I guess it’s no surprise that a spoof trailer for a movie called ‘Head of Skate” has been created.
Watch it… https://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=3xgsNAHrkQA
Wrote the following comment on Oct 6, 2008 at 3:50 pm
Sarah Palin is an every day American. She’s not some Washington insider who has lied her way to the top, she’s a Mom from a blue collar town who understands the world through a working womans eyes in what is unavoidably a mans world. I am very much excited that she is on the ticket and I will be voting for her come November! At last there will be someone in charge who I related and who understands the world that I live in!
Wrote the following comment on Oct 6, 2008 at 10:24 pm
The only problem with that Leslie is that you’re not voting for President Palin, you’re voting for President McCain. If you’re okay with President McCain then that’s fine, but don’t allow yourself be be duped by the idea that a folksy sounding ‘hockey mom’ is about to change your world, because she’s not.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 7, 2008 at 3:32 pm
Leslie, that’s brilliant, you’re not voting for her based on her ability, rather you’re voting for her because she’s like you. What if we did this with other professions such as childcare, we give them a job not based on their qualifications but because we like them.
The sky is falling round our ears and you want to vote for a hockey mom? FFS.
It reminds me a little of the white farmer situation in Zimbabwe. You have a bunch of skilled white farmers who you kick out and replace them with unskilled black Zimbabwe farmers. The result, a country who’s title was once the bread basket of Africa is now unable to feed itself.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 7, 2008 at 7:04 pm
Simon, I think it says something about the kind of man John McCain is that he is willing to pick a fellow maverick and a woman as his VP. Wilvo, of course I am voting for her on the merrits of the kind of woman she is. Experience isn’t an issue here but if it were then we would have to hold Senator Obama to the same standard. I’m voting for Sarah Palin because she brings a new perspective to the whitehouse and because she is a woman who understands what it means to be a woman in the world today. You might not agree with my decision, but I sincerely think that Sarah Palin and John McCain will help us turn a corner but if Obama does win in November then I hope his administration will do the same.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 7, 2008 at 8:14 pm
Leslie, can you please tell me how these Mavericks will change Washington? McCain’s been there for 26 years, how come he’s only just decided to change things? Couldn’t be because Obama’s campaign was all about change could it? McCain didn’t pick Palin because he was a maverick, he picked her because he thought he could pick up all the Hilary voters, he picked someone who would appeal to the public, it had nothing to do with her ability or what is best for the country.
I’m sure you sincerely believe that Palin & McCain will change things, but I see little in their policies that suggest they will do anything different to Bush. Its all very well Palin understanding what it means to be a woman but does she know much about the economy, global warming and foreign policy?
Over the last few weeks, Mccain’s actions have become erratic and more and more desperate, I certainly wouldn’t want someone like McCain in the Whitehouse during a crisis. Palin on the other hand simply does what she’s told by faceless advisors, she doesn’t have a clue.
I didn’t think it was possible for the Rep’s to nominate someone more incompetent than Bush, but these two make Bush look like Lincoln.
I know I stand little chance of changing your mind, all I ask is that you tell me how exactly McCain/Palin’s policies will be better for America than Obama/Biden’s.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 8, 2008 at 1:20 am
You’re right Wilvo, you won’t change my mind. I like McCain and I like Palin. They are trustworthy peoples peoples and I think they will be good for this country. Obama has talked about change a lot but I think that the only radical change he will bring is putting a black man in the whitehouse, other than that he will struggle to effect the kind of changes that people like yourself want when you talk about change. But you know, on that, I might ask you this question. When you listen to Obama talk of change, and when you use that word, what do you see as change? What are your expectations?
Wrote the following comment on Oct 8, 2008 at 7:36 am
Firstly, we should all be open to the possability that we are wrong and changing our minds. Despite your failure to answer my question about how McCain/Palin’s policies will be better for America (I doubt you know what the policies are), I am happy to share my expectations, which are based on the clear policies of the Obama camp.
My expectations are that Obama’s healthcare plan will bring healthcare to 33 million more Americans than McCain’s, that under Obama’s taxing plans, the middle class and the poor will receive higher tax cuts than under McCain’s (see my first post in this thread). I believe that Obama will begin to try and build bridges with those you once called allies, and try and restore your image as the worlds leading Democracy, rather than a bully with poor judgement. I expect that he will refocus your military on Afghanistan and not on Iraq. I expect that Obama will provide a stable and even hand to the Presidency, were as McCain will provide a hot headed and erratic one.
How can you call Palin trustworthy? We hardly know anything about her, although we do know she lied about the bridge to nowhere, and I don’t use that word lightly. McCain on the other hand seems to change his mind and opinion every 5 minutes, you may trust someone like that, I certainly wouldn’t.
Leslie, you make statements like Obama will struggle to effect change but don’t give any indication why you believe this to be the case.
At such a critical time in your history, I implore you to make your decision based on facts, and not your feelings.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 8, 2008 at 7:58 am
I knew I shouldn’t check my email before I went to bed, it’s late but I’ll respond quickly. I’m glad you’re open to the possibility that you’re wrong and that you’re not afraid to change your mind. That’s nice to know. Clearly our views differ, and despite your aggresive and dismissive tone, I have taken some time to read the candidates plans and pledges and after doing so I’ve decided that my vote will go to McCain/Palin. Yes I like Sarah Palin because she’s a working Mom and that resinates with me, but I also understand that I need to base my vote on more than that. So you vote for your guy and I’ll vote for mine, and lets together thank the good Lord for the fact we live in a country where we enjoy the freedom to do that.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 8, 2008 at 12:32 pm
Yet again Leslie, you have failed to back up any of your statements, such as why you think Obama will struggle to effect change or which policies of McCain/Palin you prefer over Obama’s. Let me reiterate the point again, you’re not voting for Palin, you’re voting for McCain. I find it so worrying that people are prepared to vote for Palin, the rest of the world are looking on in horror, unable to believe she could possibly be second in command. I’ve been listening to some of her stump speeches, and she goes on about America being the greatest force of good in this world, in contrast, I think that almost everyone else in the world sees you as the greatest danger to world peace.
Of course you will vote for who you will vote for, its just a sad reflection on America that you are even considering McCain/Palin over Obama, if the rest of the world had a say, Obama would win by a landslide.
I fear that your decision has more to do with your dislike of Obama than your preference for Palin and sincerely hope it doesn’t have anything to do with the colour of his skin.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 9, 2008 at 12:50 am
Oh dear Wilvo, were you starved of affection as a child?
Wrote the following comment on Oct 9, 2008 at 2:52 am
Wilvo, who the hell are you to speak so authoritatively on behalf of the world? Your entire attitude is belligerent, confrontational, superior, and just downright unpleasant.
I’m no fan of McCain or Palin, but as an American it just irks me to have some overly opinionated know-it-all wag their finger at us like they know things we couldn’t possibly understand because we’re all so dumb. Give it a rest with your high-and-mighty!
I don’t know how old you are, and maybe being an asshole on blogs is just your thing, but if not then you need to learn how to better discuss things, and know when to quit!
You’ve previously said you’re a nice guy, news flash buddy, nice guys know how to exercise restraint!
(Sorry Simon, but this guys attitude just ticks me off and after his comment above I just felt I had to say something.)
Wrote the following comment on Oct 9, 2008 at 10:30 am
Leslie, yet again you refuse to answer any questions or back up your statements, I can only conclude you know little about the candidates policies and are simply voting on who you like/dislike the most. You also fail to deny that your decision is anything about race. Come on, if you have those views, at least have the balls to nail your colours to the mast.
Doug, maybe I’m angry about the way your administration has wreaked havoc in the world over the last 8 years. Perhaps I’m angry that you’ve shown contempt for the Geneva convention, the International court, Kyoto and the UN. Perhaps I’m angry about the current worldwide financial crisis brought about by US subprime lending.
And here’s a news flash for you buddy, perhaps I’m angry that the US has spent the last 8 years being an over opinionated know it all, wagging its finger at the rest of the world because we’re all too dumb to understand. Perhaps being an asshole is just the US’s thing, but if not, perhaps it needs to learn how better to discuss things, and know when to quit. Doug, you’re angry at me for the very things I’m angry at the current administration for, that’s irony for you.
So yeah Doug, I’m angry when 45% of Americans think McCain/Palin are a good idea, because I’m not sure the world can take another 4 more years of the last 8 years. The fact that 45% of people are currently going to vote for McCain/Palin is a shocking statistic don’t you think?
Wrote the following comment on Oct 10, 2008 at 2:50 am
Wilvo. I’ve no real interest in arguing with you, especially when you bark, snarl, and make personal insults. We disagree, get over it. Think what you like, unlike you I won’t get worked up about this. We disagree, big deal. Please understand that I have no desire to adhere to your demands that I recite policies to you when it is quite clear that you will show complete contempt for my opinion and doubtless lecture me and tell me again that I am just an ignorant racist. I’m sorry you are so angry Wilvo. It makes you a rather unpleasant person to encounter which is a shame.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 10, 2008 at 4:15 am
Wilvo, assuming that you’re a Brit, I find it particularly annoying that you assume the right to lecture and wag your finger at Americans when you willingly went into war with us and have continued to stand beside us in the the wars and issues of terrorism. So while you might think that we’ve made the world more unsafe I want you to remember that you were there standing with us every step of the way “shoulder to shoulder.” So please, spare us the lectures.
While I might not agree with Leslie’s politics we do agree on one thing, and that’s how bad your attitude stinks! There is little point entering into a discussion with someone like you. You’re quite clearly a belligerent bully who needs to be right. You’re a last word kind of guy, and as such you’re precisely the kind of person I try to avoid. So go ahead and have the last word, get personal about me too if you like, do what you need to do. I’m done.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 10, 2008 at 6:57 am
All I asked Leslie was that you substansiste your position due the implication of your decision, something you have repeatedly failed to do. Like I say, I think it’s more about the colour of his skin than his policies, again something you have refused to deny. Let’s get this straight, this isn’t an argument about which is better, mac or PC, this is about what is going to happen in the world over the next 4 years, so yeah I get pretty worked up about it.
Doug, you may not like the way I put myself across, but you too are unable to refute them.
As for us supporting the US, don’t we always? Doesn’t make it right though does it? Indeed there were a great number who protested over our countries support of you. I will admit that initially I supported the invasion and am not affraid to admit I was wrong. Why is it that by and large Americans can’t see the faults in their Country or criticize it. For example look at what happened to the Dixie Chicks when they said they were ashamed that the President came from Texas. Or how about the reaction Michelle Obama got when she said she was proud of being an American for the first time in a long time. You are a great nation but you haven’t done much Thats great lately and you’ve lost a lot of peoples respect. I know that’s hard to hear and accept but that’s just the way it is Doug.
Doug, perhaps if someone would enter into a discussion with me I’d be a little more reasonable and tolerant. If someone has made a decision and can demonstrate that they have considered the issues then I can respect that. What ticks me off is when someone appears to be making their decision on ignorance and prejudice, with so much at stake, that ticks me off. Leslie and people like her will have a say in how my world will be over the next 4/8 years, so of course I get mad when she shows blind faith in McCain/Palin.
I’m not really bothered what you think of me Doug, you’re just some guy on a blog who has little to no impact on my life. What I would say though is that Simon and I have been good friends for over 15 years so I can’t be all bad now can I?
Wrote the following comment on Oct 11, 2008 at 3:24 am
You know Wilvo, maybe you aren’t able to see this, but I think you’ll find that Doug and Leslie aren’t objecting to your opinions, but rather the rather ungracious and quite disrespectful way you choose to deal with others who aren’t singing from your songbook.
If you really are a nice guy then you’re letting yourself down here by the way you personalize these rather bitter sounding exchanges. You’re not asking questions, but rather making demands in an extremely aggressive fashion.
You wrote “perhaps if someone would enter into a discussion with me I’d be a little more reasonable and tolerant.” You should read that sentance back to yourself I think. You make insulting generalizations, sweeping personalizations, and even stooped to personal insults going so far as to call Leslie a racist based on nothing but the fact she doesn’t support Barack Obama. Surely you can see why people don’t want to discuss anything with someone like that? But then again maybe you can’t.
You make for amusing reading, but man, you must be so tired at the end of every day.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 11, 2008 at 8:23 am
Hi Ron, not tired at all.
I have a gut feeling that Leslie’s decision is partly based on race, I’ve called her out on it and she’s refused to deny it, you can draw your own conclusions on that.
Perhaps you can’t see the irony in that I’m dealing with Americans the way your administration has dealt with the rest of the world over the last 8 years. My attitude annoys and upsets people right? That’s the way that I, and a lot of people feel about your country right now. However, my attitude doesn’t have any impact on your life does it? Your administration attitude impacts on many peoples lives.
Regardless of whether you like my attitude or not, the facts can’t be denied, the world is a far more unstable place than it was 8 years ago.
The world needs the US to be a leader, to set an example, we need it to start talking climate change, we need it to have a foreign policy that is fair and deals with the legitimate grievances of much of the Muslim world and stop favouring Israel, we need it to respect and abide with international law and the international court. We need it to respect and abide the Geneva convention, we need it to stop torturing prisoners.
May I be so bold as to suggest that in the misguided attempt to protect us, the Bush administration has made us less safe and eroded our freedoms. those that would use terror have already won as they have made us paranoid, frightened and xenophobic. Personally, I’d prefer a bomb going off every month if it meant we could go back to a time of less surveillance and more freedom. By reacting in the way we have, we have lost the very thing we were fighting for.
I just don’t see how any intelligent person can think that McCain is going to do anything other than to continue the failed policies of Bush. McCain is a good man but he’s erratic and hot headed, you don’t need that guy as your commander in chief. As for Palin, she’s a joke and an embarrassment to your country. Some of the things she is being told to say our downright disgraceful and dangerous. Some of the things that are being shouted at their rallies by members of the audience bring shame on your Country. Many peoples response to Obama in McCain’s base shows that your Country remains deeply racist and divided. The conservative base is getting really angry right now and I really won’t be suprised if there is some violence before November 4th. McCain and Palin need to be very careful about whipping these guys up, as they may end up with blood on their hands.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 11, 2008 at 9:53 pm
I almost dare not get involved here but I’m at work and I have nothing else to distract me at the moment so here I go.
To Wilvo, I think that you need to relax and unwind for a bit because you’re point is being lost amidst your obvious red mist. How you’ve managed to conclude that Leslie is racist is beyond me. She stated that she wasn’t going to discuss anything with you because of your aggression but you continue to label her a racist which is quite unfair from where I am sitting.
I’m not an overly political person and don’t usually involve myself in discussions like this, especially on websites. But it seems to me that you could maybe take a little time to put things into perspective Wilvo and back off from the aggression because it’s really weakening your position that without it would maybe have been far easier for people to hear.
Now don’t go calling me a racist now will you. For the record I like Obama, but that’s not what this is about.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 12, 2008 at 3:00 pm
Red mist, me? Never ;-) Do you think I should abandon my attempt to enter politic?
I had a hunch about Leslie’s reasons for not liking Obama, based on her being so vague about what exactly she didn’t like about him. If I’m wrong, I’ll quite happily apologise.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 13, 2008 at 3:30 am
Wilvo, I don’t think you need worry about having to apologize to Leslie, I think you did a fairly good job of getting rid of her.
It’s a shame really because your actual points were fair, it’s just unfortunate that you felt the need to wrap them in pointless insults and ugliness which led to 4 people complaining about you. As I mentioned before, I think behaving like that would exhaust me, though I suspect you have the advantage of youthful exhuberance over me. Oh to have the energy to get that worked up!
Wrote the following comment on Oct 13, 2008 at 7:39 am
that’s the thing Ron, my writting style is obviously far more angry than I am. Oh and I haven’t been called youthful for a while but thanks very much. You’ve seen me get passionate about a subject, I don’t get that passionate about everything, I’m generally quite chilled most of the time :-)
Wrote the following comment on Oct 13, 2008 at 6:36 pm
It always amuses me how so many Brits enjoy the taste of the foam around their mouths. Having fun here, Wilvo? The major mistake that you people make is assuming that the regular American citizen elected Bush. Look into it. Most of us are horrified that he is our representative to the world. But bear in mind, also, that he’s a bit of a monkey puppet not just here, but in the grand scheme of world politics. So keep your acidic comments aimed at the US government, not it’s citizens. But before you adopt your insulting, ignorant, juvenile holier than thou hypocritical and antagonistic but mostly BANAL attitude, address the issues that exist in your own country. Your own corrupt Tony Blair rubbed Bush’s butt like he might find a genie in it. You say “of course we followed, don’t we always”. Brilliant. So then who is stupider?
Typical blogger disorder. Nothing new here.
To address the question at hand, man or woman, doesn’t matter. Yes, it’s sexist to have a problem with that because she’s a woman. Children at home- particularly special needs- require and deserve more than the scraps of attention a VP or Pres would have left over at the end of the day. However, that’s one of the last reasons on a VERY long list of why I will run from this country clutching my children and screaming should McCain win.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 13, 2008 at 7:43 pm
Bronwyn, just so you know, not all Brits are as acidic as Wilvo. Also, you might have missed this, and please don’t mistake this for me trying to be snarky, but Tony Blair (Bush’s lapdog) hasn’t been our Prime Minister for over a year chiefly because his popularity was so dismal in the light of his continued support for Bush.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 13, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Hang on a minute, when did I criticize all Americans? I’m criticising the US administration and yes I’m criticising those that will vote for McCain as I just can’t get my head around people who would vote for McCain after 8 years of Bush, do these people not learn?
As for Tony Blair, the Iraq war is a massive stain on Tony Blairs record and it will be his legacy.
I would like to apologize for my behaviour in this thread, as Ron said my points were lost because of the way I delivered them so sorry folks, please don’t send me to guantanamo. Here’s a question for the Brits, is being sent to Guantanamo worse than being sent to Coventry :-)
Peace and love to all x x
Wrote the following comment on Oct 13, 2008 at 10:20 pm
Yes, I do know that. My work requires conversations with people around the world- that’s what I do (so no, I certainly didn’t “miss” that). My comments were directed primarily at him, though I have certainly noticed an inordinate amount of feverish criticism coming from Brits (note lack of “the”).
I don’t think Tony Blair was anyone’s lapdog. I think he pretty much held his own council and did what he thought was right, or to quote someone whose name I’ve forgotten: “he thought that what was right was whatever he had done”. His involvement in Iraq was the icing on the cake, but there were certainly a plethora of reasons to oust the man aside from that. Polls show somewhere between 40 and 89% of the population want Bush impeached. Entire states have called for it. However, it’s not as easy here as it is there, apparently, so those of us who were forced to watch our worst fears come true – those of us who were scared 8 years ago- are in no different a place than the rest of the world. Perhaps worse since America has become the root of all evil in the world (in the eyes of many). “Why is it that by and large Americans can’t see the faults in their Country or criticize it.”- Wilvo. Oh, we can. And do (do YOU make a practice of that, or are you too busy attacking us?). In fact, we do so at great length amongst each other- we just aren’t generally interested in doing so with the likes of Wilvo. And, unfortunately, there are plenty of Wilvos around.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 13, 2008 at 11:20 pm
“With the likes of Wilvo”?
Unfortunately Bronwyn, you’re not shouting loud enough as we can’t hear you.
I’m not stupid Bronwyn, I’m well aware that Gore won the popular vote in 2000, but its still fair to say that a little under half the US voted for Bush, not Gore. For him to then win again in 2004 is pretty inexcusable.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 14, 2008 at 1:40 am
Throughout my life I’ve often wished that people were blind to color and race, but that’s not the world we live in and so I deal with it. I quit responding to Wilvo because he was clearly going to carry on barking and snarling at me until he wore me (and everyone else) down. He called me a racist to get a reaction, it was obviously a last desperate lunge as I hadn’t written anything remotely racist. It didn’t work. It does make me sad though, that there are people out there who will use color and race as a weapon like that. Regardless though, on election day I’ll cast my vote knowing that in reality the only thing that will be blind to the color of my African American skin will be the voting booth.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 14, 2008 at 5:41 pm
Bark, bark, snarl, snarl :-) Leslie, I apologise for my Palin like attacks on you, it was most rude of me. Seriously though, I’m sorry.
However, as Simon says, its not Palin you’re voting for, its McCain and his antics over the last few weeks have been anything but level headed or Presidential.
Right, I’m off to wipe this egg off my face.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 14, 2008 at 6:19 pm
I just read a great quote, if Obama runs the Country half as well as he’s run his campaign, we’ll be just fine.
Can’t argue with that :-)
Wrote the following comment on Oct 14, 2008 at 9:45 pm
Palin-like attacks, Wilvo? Followed by Blair-like empty apologies. Guess you were just doing what you thought was right, even if exactly whom (aside from yourself) your sophomoric inquisitions benefit is a mystery.
Egg indeed! Yes, you’d better get wiping. Perhaps let that be a lesson to you about arrogance and the assumption that your assumptions are fact.
For the record, I thank you on behalf of the American people for having such faith in our system; common sentiment here is that the people’s vote has little if anything to do with who ends up in office (e.g. 2001 AND 2004).
Leslie, I have been a fervent Palin despiser. But if someone with your grace and wisdom approves of her, she can’t possibly be as bad as I have been thinking.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 15, 2008 at 3:11 am
Thank you Bronwyn. There are far more deserving people of your despising I think. But use your vote on November 4th and we’ll see what happens. If Obama wins then I wish him the best, after all, why wouldn’t I? He would be the leader of this great nation and I think every American who loves this land should hope their leaders are great.
Thank you Wilvo for your apology.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 15, 2008 at 6:39 pm
oo Bronwyn, pot, kettle. Seems like you have quite an attitude yourself.
Wrote the following comment on Oct 20, 2008 at 11:58 am
Well, looks like barring the Bradley effect, Obama will be the next President :-) I think Powell’s comments on Palin are very damning.
I’d love to go to Washington on election day or inauguration day, what momentous days of history they will be.