Who Will be elected?
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STUFF ON BUSH
Revealed! If elected, Bush plans to slash funding for programs he's touting on campaign trail
Washington, D.C. - Today's Washington Post reveals that if elected in 2004, George W. Bush intends to cut funding for a slew of domestic programs that he is currently touting on the campaign trail, including education, homeland security, Head Start, job training, a nutrition program for women, infants and children, medical research and on and on.
In response, the Democratic National Committee's Research Department released a document detailing exactly when and where on the campaign trail Bush has touted a program or Department that he has either cut or intends to cut should he win in November.
STUFF ON KERRY
Which party presented an agenda for the future at its convention? Below is a topic-by-topic comparison between John Kerry's remarks on July 29 with Vice President Cheney's speech on September 1. If Cheney had no remarks on the subject, you'll see the word "nothing, in brackets ([Nothing]).
“Well, look, the one thing that the American people knew about John Kerry was that he had served in Vietnam and he served honorably and heroically. They knew that from the spring when he won all of those primaries and every Tuesday night it was reiterated to them. And yet they made that essentially all the convention was about.”
-- Karl Rove [CBS Evening News. 8/30/04]
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Budget
John Kerry, July 29, 2004
We can do better and we will. We're the optimists. For us, this is a country of the future. We're the can do people. And let's not forget what we did in the 1990s. We balanced the budget. We paid down the debt. We created 23 million new jobs. We lifted millions out of poverty and we lifted the standard of living for the middle class. We just need to believe in ourselves – and we can do it again….
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on September 2, 2004 at 05:01 PM
Policy | Entry link | Comments (4)
A Stand-Up President
"I've been 35 years now involved in foreign policy one way or the other. From being at the tip of the spear when leaders made bad decisions to trying to oppose it when I came home as an act of conscience. And you can judge my character incidentally by that. Because when the times of moral crisis existed in this country I wasn't taking care of myself, I was taking care of public policy. I was taking care of things that made a difference to the life of this nation. You may not have agreed with me but I stood up and was counted and that's the kind of president I'm gonna be." --John Kerry
Posted by DickBell on September 2, 2004 at 03:54 PM
At The Campaign | Entry link | Comments (146)
New Ads on the Election's Fundamental Choice
With the Republican party set to close the curtain on a convention that showcased everything but their failed record, the Kerry-Edwards campaign Thursday announced that it will begin the general election sprint with two new ads highlighting the fundamental choice in this election: four more years of an administration that puts the interests of the few ahead of middle-class families, or the Kerry-Edwards plan that understands a stronger America begins at home with good paying jobs, affordable health care, energy independence and a stronger, safer country.
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on September 2, 2004 at 02:11 PM
At The Campaign | Entry link | Comments (322)
Protecting Our Country, Protecting Our Children
John Kerry and John Edwards believe that the country's Commander in Chief should do much more to treat members of the military and their families with the dignity and respect they deserve, starting with a Military and Family Bill of Rights. The story below from Haylee Foster is one of several that people in military familes have sent to us about why they're voting for the Kerry-Edwards ticket.
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Dear Military Families for Kerry,
There is hardly a moment in a day that goes by that I don’t think about how my action, or inaction, affects my daughters. Have I hugged them enough today? Did I play with them as much as they need? Am I disciplining them correctly and consistently? Am I making them feel secure in this topsy-turvy world of theirs?
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on September 2, 2004 at 12:30 PM
Veterans | Entry link | Comments (209)
The Future Doesn't Belong to Fear,
It Belongs to Freedom
“In an interview two days ago, the president said we can’t win the war on terror. I absolutely disagree. With the right policies, this is a war we can win, this is a war we must win, and this is a war we will win. We’re the can do people, and there’s nothing we can’t do if we put our mind and muscle into it. In the end, the terrorists will lose, and we will win. The future doesn’t belong to fear, it belongs to freedom.”--John Kerry, September 1, 2004
Posted by DickBell on September 2, 2004 at 10:21 AM
Speeches | Entry link | Comments (358)
Edwards: Hate From the Podium
At the Republican Convention last night, speakers dropped their party's efforts to present a "compassionate" face and indulged in the kind of hate-filled rhetoric that damaged their efforts so badly back at their 1992 convention.
In response to the Convention's unrelenting negativity, Senator John Edwards released the following statement Wednesday night:
There was a lot of hate coming from that podium tonight. What John Kerry and I offer to the American people is hope. Hope for more good paying jobs. Hope for better health care. And hope for our men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
What the Bush administration just doesn’t get is that a stronger America begins at home. And John Kerry and I have the right plan to lead America in a new direction because we know that we can do better.”
Posted by DickBell on September 2, 2004 at 09:01 AM
In The News | Entry link | Comments (260)
Reno 911
I sit here thinking about my trip to Nevada yesterday (first to Reno, then to Las Vegas), and as I type, I have Comedy Central on in the background. And Reno 911 comes on. Odd coincidence, but okay, I’m fine with that. Then the premise of the story is that George Bush is coming to town and the police force is finding out that they will be blocking the streets for his motorcade. Lots of talk about how they feel about that, and . . . no, I think I’ll leave it there. Back to my trip, and I guess I’ll take a cue from the show and tell you about the Reno part of the trip.
Reno was awesome. Five hundred people had gathered in the University of Nevada student union (great campus) for our round table town hall, and I shared the stage with four people who were concerned about what is happening in education – including Erin, the articulate student body president who gave me a Wolf Pack sweatshirt and joked that he was in his fifth year of college. The point of these round table events is to gather undecided voters and let them direct the conversation to the topics that matter to them in this election. Although it means that I am never sure where the conversation will lead, I am almost never disappointed. We discussed college tuition and Senator Kerry’s ideas about how to make it more affordable. We discussed the importance of arts education, which was raised both by a parent whose son saw his band director let go last year and by an assistant principal in charge of curriculum, and what a difference full funding of No Child Left Behind would make. We discussed the need for teachers who are role models for various student populations and the under-representation of Hispanic teachers even in schools with significant Hispanic populations. We discussed the need – so often mentioned by Senator Kerry – to support advanced studies in science and engineering. We could have gone on all afternoon, but I had to go to Las Vegas to meet with waiting military families, so I shook some hands and said goodbye. While I was working the rope line, a woman said she was massage therapist and reach to give me a shoulder rub. Let me tell you, the Secret Service was more than a little alarmed.
Well, the President’s motorcade has whizzed by on the television show – and I’ll move on too – and get a little sleep before tomorrow’s trip to Little Rock, St. Louis and on to Lansing. . . . Okay, I'm going to watch the rerun of tonight's Daily Show (which got great reviews on DU) and then get some sleep.
Posted by Elizabeth Edwards on September 2, 2004 at 01:55 AM
| Entry link | Comments (417)
Open Thread
Welcome Night Owls and Left Coasters;
This is an open thread for you to discuss how to motivate votes and voters for JK/JE.
Try to keep it positive and maybe Elizabeth will blog with us again soon!
Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 11:37 PM
Get Involved | Entry link | Comments (449)
John Edwards Statement on the Republican Convention
“There was a lot of hate coming from that podium tonight. What John Kerry and I offer to the American people is hope. Hope for more good paying jobs. Hope for better health care. And hope for our men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
“What the Bush administration just doesn’t get is that a stronger America begins at home. And John Kerry and I have the right plan to lead America in a new direction because we know that we can do better.”
Posted by Peter Daou on September 1, 2004 at 10:48 PM
At The Campaign | Entry link | Comments (183)
Preventing Iran From Going Nuclear
Earlier today, the International Atomic Energy Agency reported that Iran plans to begin processing tons of raw uranium that can be used to make nuclear weapons. John Kerry’s Senior Advisor for National Security Affairs, Dr. Susan Rice, released the following statement in response to this announcement:
"We rushed into war with Iraq because George Bush told the American people that Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction and had ties to al Qaeda -- neither proved to be true. Now we learn that Iran, which is a leading state sponsor of terrorism, is yet another step closer to nuclear weapons capability. Yet the Bush Administration has stood on the sidelines while this nuclear program has advanced.
“The Bush administration has demonstrated time and time again their incompetence in dealing with the real threats that we face, and we are less safe because of it. A nuclear armed Iran poses an unacceptable risk to us and our allies. It is past time for the administration to develop a tough and effective strategy for dealing with Iran - and to show real leadership when it comes to addressing the most dangerous threats this country faces. We must get off the sidelines and lead our allies to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.”
Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 09:31 PM
Policy | Entry link | Comments (492)
Edwards: Labor Secretary Chao Wrong on Outsourcing
Senator John Edwards released the following statement today in response to comments by Bush administration Labor Secretary Elaine Chao that outsourcing creates jobs in the U.S.:
“Once again, we’ve been reminded of how George W. Bush and his misguided policies have taken America in the wrong direction. Today a member of his cabinet said that outsourcing American jobs overseas creates jobs. Like most Americans, I have no idea how they could say that.
“Not long ago, this administration said outsourcing was a ‘good thing.’ They actually think this is good for our economy. No wonder we’ve lost almost 2 million jobs under this president. No wonder people are hungry for a new president to take our economy in a new direction.”
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 07:57 PM
Policy | Entry link | Comments (276)
Bob Kerrey and Max Cleland Call for Karl Rove’s Resignation
In response to today’s outrageous attacks on John Kerry’s service by Karl Rove, former Georgia Senator Max Cleland and former Nebraska Senator Bob Kerrey made the following statements.
Senator Max Cleland:
“Karl Rove was behind it all, it’s part of his smear campaign to tarnish the records and service of Vietnam Veterans, and now he’s doing it again. I find it interesting that three different people have had to resign from basically the Bush Campaign and their official duties because of this ad, because they are all tied together.”
Senator Bob Kerrey:
“If the question is whether or not there is any independence left between the campaign and these swift boat ads, that question has now been answered. Karl Rove has been in enough political campaigns to understand how separate you need to be from these independent efforts and he just ended that separation. If Ginsberg resigned, so should he.”
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 06:10 PM
In The News | Entry link | Comments (260)
"Our differences couldn’t be plainer"
"President Bush now admits he miscalculated in Iraq. In truth, his miscalculation was ignoring the advice that was given to him, including the best advice of America’s own military.
So when the president says we have the same position on Iraq, I have to respectfully disagree. Our differences couldn’t be plainer. And I have set them out consistently. When it comes to Iraq, it’s not that I would have done one thing differently, I would’ve done almost everything differently."
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by Peter Daou on September 1, 2004 at 04:21 PM
Policy | Entry link | Comments (259)
2000 Lucky People in Nashville
We got a nice report from blogger "tennesseeanforkerry" on John Kerry's rally last night at the Nashville airport.
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Great speech by Kerry this evening before 2000 people standing crammed into a hangar at the Nashville airport. It all began with the wonderful sight of the campaign plane pulling into view the wide open front doors of the hangar where people had been standing for 2 hours. Tremendous cheers came from the crowd as Kerry descended the onto the tarmac and walked into the hangar, greeting a score of local veterans along the way.
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 03:32 PM
First Person | Entry link | Comments (126)
Volunteer: Send Bush Back to Crawford
Dear Blogger,
Tonight, Dick Cheney -- Halliburton's representative in the Bush White House -- accepts the nomination for vice president. Republicans are attacking John Kerry at their convention because they have no plan and a dismal record. These attacks are only energizing our supporters. Over the last few days, more than 80,000 Americans have stepped forward and contributed record amounts online to the Democratic Party.
Thank you for once again demonstrating a commitment whose impact will last well beyond this election. Together, we will defeat the powerful special interests behind the Bush-Cheney campaign, and together, we will build a stronger America.
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by Mary Beth Cahill on September 1, 2004 at 01:44 PM
Get Involved | Entry link | Comments (284)
"The Cancer of Poverty"
The Toledo Blade takes a look at "the hard reality" of the Bush administration's own economic statistics and finds a very different looking America from Bush's rosy scenario. Here's the Blade's editorial today:
"The cancer of poverty"
Editorial
Toledo Blade
Sepetember 1, 2004
The indictment against President Bush's economic policy is growing, and no amount of political spin can save the administration from the hard reality of the government's own numbers.
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 12:37 PM
In The News | Entry link | Comments (182)
Join the Kerry-Edwards Campus Team
Student voters are one of the largest untapped groups of new voters in the country. Join our Campus Team program, and help us get out the vote on college campuses across the country.
The Kerry-Edwards ticket has been leading Bush-Cheney among 18-25 year olds. If you’re a student, you really can make a difference this November. Research shows that when one young person (18-25) asks another young person to vote, the likelihood of that person voting goes up 8%-12%. If we have another election like the last one, an 8% increase in student votes could easily swing the race to John Kerry.
If you’re a student, join our campus effort today by registering at http://johnkerry.com/campusteam and get every one of your friends registered and to the polls.
Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 11:04 AM
Get Involved | Entry link | Comments (257)
Campaign Announces $45 Million General Election Ad Buy
The Kerry-Edwards campaign will place a $45 million advertising buy in battleground states between now and Election Day.
Rolled out in the weeks after Labor Day, the new ads will frame the fundamental choice that voters face in this election: an administration that has pursued policies that benefit the few and that ‘miscalculated’ the situation in Iraq, or the Kerry-Edwards plan that understands a stronger America begins at home with specific plans to create jobs, strengthen the economy and help middle-class families get ahead.
Posted by Peter Daou on September 1, 2004 at 10:05 AM
At The Campaign | Entry link | Comments (162)
New Staff for Final Campaign Push
Washington, DC – With just over two months to go before Election Day, the Kerry-Edwards campaign announced Tuesday that it has brought on board key new staff to help lead the campaign to victory on November 2nd. The new additions strengthen an already impressive campaign team and bolster the campaign’s efforts to put John Kerry and John Edwards in the White House.
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 07:10 AM
At The Campaign | Entry link | Comments (371)
Act Now -- Midnight Deadline
Dear Blogger,
George Bush thinks this is his big week, but we're going to prove him wrong. We're just hours away from the Democratic Party's end-of-August fundraising deadline. It's essential that you act right now.
You can beat the Republican's big money fundraising machine. Every dollar you contribute to the Democratic Party before midnight will be matched by a group of committed Democrats, doubling the impact of your contribution.
https://www.democrats.org/support/kerry.html
A strong Democratic Party is critical to our efforts because they are responsible for running essential programs in battleground states like Florida and Ohio. Even a $25 contribution makes a huge difference.
https://www.democrats.org/support/kerry.html
Finally, I need you to forward this message to all your friends and family right now, and ask them to join us in our efforts. We don't have any time to waste.
Sincerely,
Mary Beth Cahill
Campaign Manager
Posted by Mary Beth Cahill on August 31, 2004 at 09:49 PM
Get Involved | Entry link | Comments (704)
Edwards Hits Bush Economic Policies
“Four years ago, George Bush claimed to be a compassionate conservative,” said Edwards. “But there is nothing compassionate about leaving millions of hard working families behind. And there is nothing conservative about a fiscal policy that turns record surpluses into record deficits by combining an ill-planned war with reckless tax cuts for the wealthy. The American people will not be fooled by slogans.”--John Edwards, August 31, 2004 in West Virginia.
More....
Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 08:24 PM
Policy | Entry link | Comments (303)
Tonight's TV News Shows
Tonight's schedule is a little lighter than last night for those of you who are looking for something to distract you from the Republican convention. Here's tonight's lineup:
FOX:
8:00 pm ET – O’Reilly Factor
Terry McAuliffe, Chairman, Democratic National Committee
9:00 pm ET – Hannity & Colmes
Rep. Charles Rangel
CNBC:
7:00 pm ET – Capitol Report
Terry McAuliffe, Chairman, Democratic National Committee
CNN Headline News:
11:00 pm ET –Convention Coverage
Rep. Gregory Meeks
Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 06:49 PM
In The News | Entry link | Comments (316)
Tonight--August Fundraising Deadline
Dear Blogger,
We're closing in on one of the most important deadlines of this presidential election year. Tonight at midnight, the Democratic Party will reach its critical August fundraising deadline. Every dollar you contribute today will be matched by a group of dedicated Democrats.
This program was only supposed to match $2 million in contributions -- but these supporters have upped their challenge, and now will match EVERY dollar that you contribute before midnight tonight. Make your contribution today and double your impact:
https://www.democrats.org/support/kerry.html
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by Mary Beth Cahill on August 31, 2004 at 05:46 PM
Get Involved | Entry link | Comments (139)
Kerry on WTO Ruling:
Bush Fails Again
The World Trade Organization ruled that the so-called Byrd amendment, named after its principal sponsor, Sen. Robert Byrd, was illegal, and that a number of countries were entitled to charge higher tariffs on millions of dollars of U.S. goods.
John Kerry released the following statement today on the inability of the Bush administration to fight hard enough in the World Trade Organization (WTO) to gain acceptance for the Byrd amendment, which allows companies to be compensated when they suffer from unfair foreign trade practices:
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 04:12 PM
Policy | Entry link | Comments (204)
Bush Has Not Been Good for Veterans
George Bush spoke at to the American Legion today, but he can't hide the fact that his Administration has been bad for veterans. He has failed to keep the promises he made to our veterans. And back when Dick Cheney was a member of the House of Representatives, Cheney voted consistently in the minority to cut funding for the Veterans Administration (now the Dept. of Veterans Affairs).
Here's the Bush/Cheney record of not living up to our country's commitment to those who served, along with the Kerry-Edwards proposals for honoring our veterans with better health care for all veterans.
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 02:53 PM
Veterans | Entry link | Comments (241)
Cate Edwards Campaigning on Her Own
The Nashua Telegraph published a glowing account of Cate Edwards' first day campaigning on her own in New Hampshire last Thursday ("Daughters of politics: Candidates’ children campaign on their own"). Vanessa Kerry, a more experienced campaign hand, was with Cate part of the day, as they talked with nurses and teachers, did radio and TV interviews, and spoke at a Kerry-Edwards rally. Click here for the story and photos.
Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 12:06 PM
At The Campaign | Entry link | Comments (265)
Holding Bush Accountable for 9/11
After all the emphasis on 9/11 on the opening day of the Republican convention, the New York Daily News published a biting letter from Lorie Van Auken, a 9/11 widow, criticizing President Bush for not having held a single person accountable for the intelligence failures of 9/11 or the ensuring debacle in Iraq.
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New YorkDaily News
August 31, 2004
Jersey widow demands some accountability
BY LORIE VAN AUKEN
With their convention set here in the city, the Republicans want to send a message that America should remember 9/11. I am reminded, though, that Nov. 2 is Election Day and that accountability should be our top priority.
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 10:53 AM
In The News | Entry link | Comments (221)
Leadership in the Battle Against Terrorism
"It matters who leads us in our battle against terrorism. And it matters whether or not the world still looks to America and its flag as a beacon of hope. The hard truth is that the world does not look up to our president this way any more. They did for a moment after September 11th, but that moment was lost. With John Kerry, that moment can be found again."--John Edwards, August 30, 2004
Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 08:44 AM
Policy | Entry link | Comments (302)
Mission NOT Accomplished
Check out the Mission Not Accomplished website for info on the Republican convention.
Posted by Peter Daou on August 31, 2004 at 12:25 AM
At The Campaign | Entry link | Comments (431)
Edwards Foreign Policy Speech Online
John Edwards gave a powerful speech in North Carolina today, laying out the details of the Kerry-Edwards plan to make America stronger at home and respected in the world. As president, John Kerry will provide America new leadership to strengthen and restore alliances. With our friends and allies by our side we can effectively fight the war on terror, keep weapons of mass destruction out of the hands of terrorists, finish the job in Afghanistan and win the peace in Iraq.
You can read the full text of the speech online here.
Posted by DickBell on August 30, 2004 at 10:44 PM
| Entry link | Comments (360)
ALERT! John Edwards on Nightline
John Edwards will be on Nightline tonight at 11:30 PM EDT to talk about Bush's comments about not being able to win the war on terror. You can read what Edwards said earlier today about Bush's remarks here.
Posted by DickBell on August 30, 2004 at 08:47 PM
In The News | Entry link | Comments (358)
TV News Tonight
As the Republican Convention grinds into its first evening, we thought you might like a few Democratic breaths of fresh air. Here are some news shows that will be carrying Kerry-Edwards campaigners and other Democrats this evening:
CNN:
7:00 pm ET – Anderson Cooper
Al Sharpton
9:00 pm ET – Larry King Live
Mario Cuomo
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on August 30, 2004 at 06:12 PM
In The News | Entry link | Comments (447)
Revealed! If elected, Bush plans to slash funding for programs he's touting on campaign trail
Washington, D.C. - Today's Washington Post reveals that if elected in 2004, George W. Bush intends to cut funding for a slew of domestic programs that he is currently touting on the campaign trail, including education, homeland security, Head Start, job training, a nutrition program for women, infants and children, medical research and on and on.
In response, the Democratic National Committee's Research Department released a document detailing exactly when and where on the campaign trail Bush has touted a program or Department that he has either cut or intends to cut should he win in November.
STUFF ON KERRY
Which party presented an agenda for the future at its convention? Below is a topic-by-topic comparison between John Kerry's remarks on July 29 with Vice President Cheney's speech on September 1. If Cheney had no remarks on the subject, you'll see the word "nothing, in brackets ([Nothing]).
“Well, look, the one thing that the American people knew about John Kerry was that he had served in Vietnam and he served honorably and heroically. They knew that from the spring when he won all of those primaries and every Tuesday night it was reiterated to them. And yet they made that essentially all the convention was about.”
-- Karl Rove [CBS Evening News. 8/30/04]
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Budget
John Kerry, July 29, 2004
We can do better and we will. We're the optimists. For us, this is a country of the future. We're the can do people. And let's not forget what we did in the 1990s. We balanced the budget. We paid down the debt. We created 23 million new jobs. We lifted millions out of poverty and we lifted the standard of living for the middle class. We just need to believe in ourselves – and we can do it again….
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on September 2, 2004 at 05:01 PM
Policy | Entry link | Comments (4)
A Stand-Up President
"I've been 35 years now involved in foreign policy one way or the other. From being at the tip of the spear when leaders made bad decisions to trying to oppose it when I came home as an act of conscience. And you can judge my character incidentally by that. Because when the times of moral crisis existed in this country I wasn't taking care of myself, I was taking care of public policy. I was taking care of things that made a difference to the life of this nation. You may not have agreed with me but I stood up and was counted and that's the kind of president I'm gonna be." --John Kerry
Posted by DickBell on September 2, 2004 at 03:54 PM
At The Campaign | Entry link | Comments (146)
New Ads on the Election's Fundamental Choice
With the Republican party set to close the curtain on a convention that showcased everything but their failed record, the Kerry-Edwards campaign Thursday announced that it will begin the general election sprint with two new ads highlighting the fundamental choice in this election: four more years of an administration that puts the interests of the few ahead of middle-class families, or the Kerry-Edwards plan that understands a stronger America begins at home with good paying jobs, affordable health care, energy independence and a stronger, safer country.
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on September 2, 2004 at 02:11 PM
At The Campaign | Entry link | Comments (322)
Protecting Our Country, Protecting Our Children
John Kerry and John Edwards believe that the country's Commander in Chief should do much more to treat members of the military and their families with the dignity and respect they deserve, starting with a Military and Family Bill of Rights. The story below from Haylee Foster is one of several that people in military familes have sent to us about why they're voting for the Kerry-Edwards ticket.
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Dear Military Families for Kerry,
There is hardly a moment in a day that goes by that I don’t think about how my action, or inaction, affects my daughters. Have I hugged them enough today? Did I play with them as much as they need? Am I disciplining them correctly and consistently? Am I making them feel secure in this topsy-turvy world of theirs?
Continue reading this entry...
Posted by DickBell on September 2, 2004 at 12:30 PM
Veterans | Entry link | Comments (209)
The Future Doesn't Belong to Fear,
It Belongs to Freedom
“In an interview two days ago, the president said we can’t win the war on terror. I absolutely disagree. With the right policies, this is a war we can win, this is a war we must win, and this is a war we will win. We’re the can do people, and there’s nothing we can’t do if we put our mind and muscle into it. In the end, the terrorists will lose, and we will win. The future doesn’t belong to fear, it belongs to freedom.”--John Kerry, September 1, 2004
Posted by DickBell on September 2, 2004 at 10:21 AM
Speeches | Entry link | Comments (358)
Edwards: Hate From the Podium
At the Republican Convention last night, speakers dropped their party's efforts to present a "compassionate" face and indulged in the kind of hate-filled rhetoric that damaged their efforts so badly back at their 1992 convention.
In response to the Convention's unrelenting negativity, Senator John Edwards released the following statement Wednesday night:
There was a lot of hate coming from that podium tonight. What John Kerry and I offer to the American people is hope. Hope for more good paying jobs. Hope for better health care. And hope for our men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
What the Bush administration just doesn’t get is that a stronger America begins at home. And John Kerry and I have the right plan to lead America in a new direction because we know that we can do better.”
Posted by DickBell on September 2, 2004 at 09:01 AM
In The News | Entry link | Comments (260)
Reno 911
I sit here thinking about my trip to Nevada yesterday (first to Reno, then to Las Vegas), and as I type, I have Comedy Central on in the background. And Reno 911 comes on. Odd coincidence, but okay, I’m fine with that. Then the premise of the story is that George Bush is coming to town and the police force is finding out that they will be blocking the streets for his motorcade. Lots of talk about how they feel about that, and . . . no, I think I’ll leave it there. Back to my trip, and I guess I’ll take a cue from the show and tell you about the Reno part of the trip.
Reno was awesome. Five hundred people had gathered in the University of Nevada student union (great campus) for our round table town hall, and I shared the stage with four people who were concerned about what is happening in education – including Erin, the articulate student body president who gave me a Wolf Pack sweatshirt and joked that he was in his fifth year of college. The point of these round table events is to gather undecided voters and let them direct the conversation to the topics that matter to them in this election. Although it means that I am never sure where the conversation will lead, I am almost never disappointed. We discussed college tuition and Senator Kerry’s ideas about how to make it more affordable. We discussed the importance of arts education, which was raised both by a parent whose son saw his band director let go last year and by an assistant principal in charge of curriculum, and what a difference full funding of No Child Left Behind would make. We discussed the need for teachers who are role models for various student populations and the under-representation of Hispanic teachers even in schools with significant Hispanic populations. We discussed the need – so often mentioned by Senator Kerry – to support advanced studies in science and engineering. We could have gone on all afternoon, but I had to go to Las Vegas to meet with waiting military families, so I shook some hands and said goodbye. While I was working the rope line, a woman said she was massage therapist and reach to give me a shoulder rub. Let me tell you, the Secret Service was more than a little alarmed.
Well, the President’s motorcade has whizzed by on the television show – and I’ll move on too – and get a little sleep before tomorrow’s trip to Little Rock, St. Louis and on to Lansing. . . . Okay, I'm going to watch the rerun of tonight's Daily Show (which got great reviews on DU) and then get some sleep.
Posted by Elizabeth Edwards on September 2, 2004 at 01:55 AM
| Entry link | Comments (417)
Open Thread
Welcome Night Owls and Left Coasters;
This is an open thread for you to discuss how to motivate votes and voters for JK/JE.
Try to keep it positive and maybe Elizabeth will blog with us again soon!
Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 11:37 PM
Get Involved | Entry link | Comments (449)
John Edwards Statement on the Republican Convention
“There was a lot of hate coming from that podium tonight. What John Kerry and I offer to the American people is hope. Hope for more good paying jobs. Hope for better health care. And hope for our men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
“What the Bush administration just doesn’t get is that a stronger America begins at home. And John Kerry and I have the right plan to lead America in a new direction because we know that we can do better.”
Posted by Peter Daou on September 1, 2004 at 10:48 PM
At The Campaign | Entry link | Comments (183)
Preventing Iran From Going Nuclear
Earlier today, the International Atomic Energy Agency reported that Iran plans to begin processing tons of raw uranium that can be used to make nuclear weapons. John Kerry’s Senior Advisor for National Security Affairs, Dr. Susan Rice, released the following statement in response to this announcement:
"We rushed into war with Iraq because George Bush told the American people that Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction and had ties to al Qaeda -- neither proved to be true. Now we learn that Iran, which is a leading state sponsor of terrorism, is yet another step closer to nuclear weapons capability. Yet the Bush Administration has stood on the sidelines while this nuclear program has advanced.
“The Bush administration has demonstrated time and time again their incompetence in dealing with the real threats that we face, and we are less safe because of it. A nuclear armed Iran poses an unacceptable risk to us and our allies. It is past time for the administration to develop a tough and effective strategy for dealing with Iran - and to show real leadership when it comes to addressing the most dangerous threats this country faces. We must get off the sidelines and lead our allies to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.”
Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 09:31 PM
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Edwards: Labor Secretary Chao Wrong on Outsourcing
Senator John Edwards released the following statement today in response to comments by Bush administration Labor Secretary Elaine Chao that outsourcing creates jobs in the U.S.:
“Once again, we’ve been reminded of how George W. Bush and his misguided policies have taken America in the wrong direction. Today a member of his cabinet said that outsourcing American jobs overseas creates jobs. Like most Americans, I have no idea how they could say that.
“Not long ago, this administration said outsourcing was a ‘good thing.’ They actually think this is good for our economy. No wonder we’ve lost almost 2 million jobs under this president. No wonder people are hungry for a new president to take our economy in a new direction.”
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Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 07:57 PM
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Bob Kerrey and Max Cleland Call for Karl Rove’s Resignation
In response to today’s outrageous attacks on John Kerry’s service by Karl Rove, former Georgia Senator Max Cleland and former Nebraska Senator Bob Kerrey made the following statements.
Senator Max Cleland:
“Karl Rove was behind it all, it’s part of his smear campaign to tarnish the records and service of Vietnam Veterans, and now he’s doing it again. I find it interesting that three different people have had to resign from basically the Bush Campaign and their official duties because of this ad, because they are all tied together.”
Senator Bob Kerrey:
“If the question is whether or not there is any independence left between the campaign and these swift boat ads, that question has now been answered. Karl Rove has been in enough political campaigns to understand how separate you need to be from these independent efforts and he just ended that separation. If Ginsberg resigned, so should he.”
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Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 06:10 PM
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"Our differences couldn’t be plainer"
"President Bush now admits he miscalculated in Iraq. In truth, his miscalculation was ignoring the advice that was given to him, including the best advice of America’s own military.
So when the president says we have the same position on Iraq, I have to respectfully disagree. Our differences couldn’t be plainer. And I have set them out consistently. When it comes to Iraq, it’s not that I would have done one thing differently, I would’ve done almost everything differently."
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Posted by Peter Daou on September 1, 2004 at 04:21 PM
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2000 Lucky People in Nashville
We got a nice report from blogger "tennesseeanforkerry" on John Kerry's rally last night at the Nashville airport.
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Great speech by Kerry this evening before 2000 people standing crammed into a hangar at the Nashville airport. It all began with the wonderful sight of the campaign plane pulling into view the wide open front doors of the hangar where people had been standing for 2 hours. Tremendous cheers came from the crowd as Kerry descended the onto the tarmac and walked into the hangar, greeting a score of local veterans along the way.
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Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 03:32 PM
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Volunteer: Send Bush Back to Crawford
Dear Blogger,
Tonight, Dick Cheney -- Halliburton's representative in the Bush White House -- accepts the nomination for vice president. Republicans are attacking John Kerry at their convention because they have no plan and a dismal record. These attacks are only energizing our supporters. Over the last few days, more than 80,000 Americans have stepped forward and contributed record amounts online to the Democratic Party.
Thank you for once again demonstrating a commitment whose impact will last well beyond this election. Together, we will defeat the powerful special interests behind the Bush-Cheney campaign, and together, we will build a stronger America.
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Posted by Mary Beth Cahill on September 1, 2004 at 01:44 PM
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"The Cancer of Poverty"
The Toledo Blade takes a look at "the hard reality" of the Bush administration's own economic statistics and finds a very different looking America from Bush's rosy scenario. Here's the Blade's editorial today:
"The cancer of poverty"
Editorial
Toledo Blade
Sepetember 1, 2004
The indictment against President Bush's economic policy is growing, and no amount of political spin can save the administration from the hard reality of the government's own numbers.
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Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 12:37 PM
In The News | Entry link | Comments (182)
Join the Kerry-Edwards Campus Team
Student voters are one of the largest untapped groups of new voters in the country. Join our Campus Team program, and help us get out the vote on college campuses across the country.
The Kerry-Edwards ticket has been leading Bush-Cheney among 18-25 year olds. If you’re a student, you really can make a difference this November. Research shows that when one young person (18-25) asks another young person to vote, the likelihood of that person voting goes up 8%-12%. If we have another election like the last one, an 8% increase in student votes could easily swing the race to John Kerry.
If you’re a student, join our campus effort today by registering at http://johnkerry.com/campusteam and get every one of your friends registered and to the polls.
Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 11:04 AM
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Campaign Announces $45 Million General Election Ad Buy
The Kerry-Edwards campaign will place a $45 million advertising buy in battleground states between now and Election Day.
Rolled out in the weeks after Labor Day, the new ads will frame the fundamental choice that voters face in this election: an administration that has pursued policies that benefit the few and that ‘miscalculated’ the situation in Iraq, or the Kerry-Edwards plan that understands a stronger America begins at home with specific plans to create jobs, strengthen the economy and help middle-class families get ahead.
Posted by Peter Daou on September 1, 2004 at 10:05 AM
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New Staff for Final Campaign Push
Washington, DC – With just over two months to go before Election Day, the Kerry-Edwards campaign announced Tuesday that it has brought on board key new staff to help lead the campaign to victory on November 2nd. The new additions strengthen an already impressive campaign team and bolster the campaign’s efforts to put John Kerry and John Edwards in the White House.
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Posted by DickBell on September 1, 2004 at 07:10 AM
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Act Now -- Midnight Deadline
Dear Blogger,
George Bush thinks this is his big week, but we're going to prove him wrong. We're just hours away from the Democratic Party's end-of-August fundraising deadline. It's essential that you act right now.
You can beat the Republican's big money fundraising machine. Every dollar you contribute to the Democratic Party before midnight will be matched by a group of committed Democrats, doubling the impact of your contribution.
https://www.democrats.org/support/kerry.html
A strong Democratic Party is critical to our efforts because they are responsible for running essential programs in battleground states like Florida and Ohio. Even a $25 contribution makes a huge difference.
https://www.democrats.org/support/kerry.html
Finally, I need you to forward this message to all your friends and family right now, and ask them to join us in our efforts. We don't have any time to waste.
Sincerely,
Mary Beth Cahill
Campaign Manager
Posted by Mary Beth Cahill on August 31, 2004 at 09:49 PM
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Edwards Hits Bush Economic Policies
“Four years ago, George Bush claimed to be a compassionate conservative,” said Edwards. “But there is nothing compassionate about leaving millions of hard working families behind. And there is nothing conservative about a fiscal policy that turns record surpluses into record deficits by combining an ill-planned war with reckless tax cuts for the wealthy. The American people will not be fooled by slogans.”--John Edwards, August 31, 2004 in West Virginia.
More....
Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 08:24 PM
Policy | Entry link | Comments (303)
Tonight's TV News Shows
Tonight's schedule is a little lighter than last night for those of you who are looking for something to distract you from the Republican convention. Here's tonight's lineup:
FOX:
8:00 pm ET – O’Reilly Factor
Terry McAuliffe, Chairman, Democratic National Committee
9:00 pm ET – Hannity & Colmes
Rep. Charles Rangel
CNBC:
7:00 pm ET – Capitol Report
Terry McAuliffe, Chairman, Democratic National Committee
CNN Headline News:
11:00 pm ET –Convention Coverage
Rep. Gregory Meeks
Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 06:49 PM
In The News | Entry link | Comments (316)
Tonight--August Fundraising Deadline
Dear Blogger,
We're closing in on one of the most important deadlines of this presidential election year. Tonight at midnight, the Democratic Party will reach its critical August fundraising deadline. Every dollar you contribute today will be matched by a group of dedicated Democrats.
This program was only supposed to match $2 million in contributions -- but these supporters have upped their challenge, and now will match EVERY dollar that you contribute before midnight tonight. Make your contribution today and double your impact:
https://www.democrats.org/support/kerry.html
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Posted by Mary Beth Cahill on August 31, 2004 at 05:46 PM
Get Involved | Entry link | Comments (139)
Kerry on WTO Ruling:
Bush Fails Again
The World Trade Organization ruled that the so-called Byrd amendment, named after its principal sponsor, Sen. Robert Byrd, was illegal, and that a number of countries were entitled to charge higher tariffs on millions of dollars of U.S. goods.
John Kerry released the following statement today on the inability of the Bush administration to fight hard enough in the World Trade Organization (WTO) to gain acceptance for the Byrd amendment, which allows companies to be compensated when they suffer from unfair foreign trade practices:
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Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 04:12 PM
Policy | Entry link | Comments (204)
Bush Has Not Been Good for Veterans
George Bush spoke at to the American Legion today, but he can't hide the fact that his Administration has been bad for veterans. He has failed to keep the promises he made to our veterans. And back when Dick Cheney was a member of the House of Representatives, Cheney voted consistently in the minority to cut funding for the Veterans Administration (now the Dept. of Veterans Affairs).
Here's the Bush/Cheney record of not living up to our country's commitment to those who served, along with the Kerry-Edwards proposals for honoring our veterans with better health care for all veterans.
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Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 02:53 PM
Veterans | Entry link | Comments (241)
Cate Edwards Campaigning on Her Own
The Nashua Telegraph published a glowing account of Cate Edwards' first day campaigning on her own in New Hampshire last Thursday ("Daughters of politics: Candidates’ children campaign on their own"). Vanessa Kerry, a more experienced campaign hand, was with Cate part of the day, as they talked with nurses and teachers, did radio and TV interviews, and spoke at a Kerry-Edwards rally. Click here for the story and photos.
Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 12:06 PM
At The Campaign | Entry link | Comments (265)
Holding Bush Accountable for 9/11
After all the emphasis on 9/11 on the opening day of the Republican convention, the New York Daily News published a biting letter from Lorie Van Auken, a 9/11 widow, criticizing President Bush for not having held a single person accountable for the intelligence failures of 9/11 or the ensuring debacle in Iraq.
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New YorkDaily News
August 31, 2004
Jersey widow demands some accountability
BY LORIE VAN AUKEN
With their convention set here in the city, the Republicans want to send a message that America should remember 9/11. I am reminded, though, that Nov. 2 is Election Day and that accountability should be our top priority.
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Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 10:53 AM
In The News | Entry link | Comments (221)
Leadership in the Battle Against Terrorism
"It matters who leads us in our battle against terrorism. And it matters whether or not the world still looks to America and its flag as a beacon of hope. The hard truth is that the world does not look up to our president this way any more. They did for a moment after September 11th, but that moment was lost. With John Kerry, that moment can be found again."--John Edwards, August 30, 2004
Posted by DickBell on August 31, 2004 at 08:44 AM
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Mission NOT Accomplished
Check out the Mission Not Accomplished website for info on the Republican convention.
Posted by Peter Daou on August 31, 2004 at 12:25 AM
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Edwards Foreign Policy Speech Online
John Edwards gave a powerful speech in North Carolina today, laying out the details of the Kerry-Edwards plan to make America stronger at home and respected in the world. As president, John Kerry will provide America new leadership to strengthen and restore alliances. With our friends and allies by our side we can effectively fight the war on terror, keep weapons of mass destruction out of the hands of terrorists, finish the job in Afghanistan and win the peace in Iraq.
You can read the full text of the speech online here.
Posted by DickBell on August 30, 2004 at 10:44 PM
| Entry link | Comments (360)
ALERT! John Edwards on Nightline
John Edwards will be on Nightline tonight at 11:30 PM EDT to talk about Bush's comments about not being able to win the war on terror. You can read what Edwards said earlier today about Bush's remarks here.
Posted by DickBell on August 30, 2004 at 08:47 PM
In The News | Entry link | Comments (358)
TV News Tonight
As the Republican Convention grinds into its first evening, we thought you might like a few Democratic breaths of fresh air. Here are some news shows that will be carrying Kerry-Edwards campaigners and other Democrats this evening:
CNN:
7:00 pm ET – Anderson Cooper
Al Sharpton
9:00 pm ET – Larry King Live
Mario Cuomo
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Posted by DickBell on August 30, 2004 at 06:12 PM
In The News | Entry link | Comments (447)
I dislike Kerry the least. Apparently he's a "flipflopper", which bestows upon him the uncanny ability to reflect on things and change his mind. Talks about Vietnam alot as if going to another country and killing 'the gooks' is an awesome thing to be proud of. Probably sleeps in a bin of money, like that talking duck...
Comes across as too pompous imo.
Bush I dislike with a burning passion. Reckless with his rhetoric, shows his true colours. He's a "War president" or something. I'm not even sure what that means. I wouldn't want to be a War President when I'm fighting a never ending war against an EMOTION. (or would I?) Doesn't like atheists/gays/poor people/the surplus/non patriots (non patriots because they don't agree with everything he says, apparently)
*Disclaimer*
I R POKIN TEH FUN!!1111 SHUTUP I DON'T CARE THAST YOU DISAGREE WIT ME LOLZ!?
P.S Keep an ear out for the collective groan the rest of the world will give if Bush gets back into the WH.
Comes across as too pompous imo.
Bush I dislike with a burning passion. Reckless with his rhetoric, shows his true colours. He's a "War president" or something. I'm not even sure what that means. I wouldn't want to be a War President when I'm fighting a never ending war against an EMOTION. (or would I?) Doesn't like atheists/gays/poor people/the surplus/non patriots (non patriots because they don't agree with everything he says, apparently)
*Disclaimer*
I R POKIN TEH FUN!!1111 SHUTUP I DON'T CARE THAST YOU DISAGREE WIT ME LOLZ!?
P.S Keep an ear out for the collective groan the rest of the world will give if Bush gets back into the WH.
I more or less feel the same way as Stilgar. I don't like either of them but I'd rather have Kerry than daddy's little cowboy. Bush seems like a little boy to me. And kids suck. I also think that if Kerry and Bush had 1on1, hand to hand combat in thunderdome....Kerry would lay his ass out.
Vote for bush if you want to coninue invading 3rd world countrys like Iraq for no apparent reason.
