More time to blog about this next week, but in short Obama has begun the inevitable backtracking on an Iraq withdrawal timetable since (duh) suddenly realizing he doesn't have a clue about what is actually going on over there. He even called a 'mulligan' (do-over) news conference when he realized liberals all over America were stocking up on rotten tomatoes to hurl at him.
McCain said what millions of Americans have been saying for months (emphasis mine):
"Since announcing his campaign in 2007, the central premise of Barack Obama's candidacy was his commitment to begin withdrawing American troops from Iraq immediately. He campaigned in Iowa, New Hampshire and across the country reaffirming this pledge to the American people.
"Today, Barack Obama reversed that position proving once again that his words do not matter. He has now adopted John McCain's position that we cannot risk the progress we have made in Iraq by beginning to withdraw our troops immediately without concern for conditions on the ground. There is nothing wrong with changing your mind when the facts on the ground dictate it. Indeed, the facts have changed because of the success of the surge that John McCain advocated for years and Barack Obama opposed in a position that put politics ahead of country.
"Now that Barack Obama has changed course and proven his past positions to be just empty words, we would like to congratulate him for accepting John McCain's principled stand on this critical national security issue. If he had visited Iraq sooner or actually had a one-on-one meeting with General Petraeus, he would have changed his position long ago."
Pop quiz! Which guy do you want in charge: the one who has to re-do a press conference when public response is mixed, or the guy who smiled through the insults, willing to be unpopular to safeguard our troops and their mission?
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Friday, July 4, 2008
Let's Get This Right!!
This Independence Day, I am doing 3 things. I am celebrating my Mom's 60th birthday (Happy Birthday Mom!). I am celebrating my country's 232nd birthday (Happy Birthday America!). And I am putting my money where my mouth is.
Prior to this Presidential election, I have never given money to any political candidate. Frankly, I need my money to fill my gas tank and raise my kids. But this year is different. This year we have a candidate of unprecedented courage who will not run again. Against all odds, we have a real chance to elect a President with character, conviction and qualifications - the experience to know what to do, and the backbone to do it.
Many people have tried to tell me, directly or indirectly, that this cause is foolish. That McCain isn't really a hero - just a guy who flew a plane that got shot down. That McCain isn't really going to solve anything. That McCain can't possibly do any good because he's too old. Too feisty. Too Republican. Or not Republican enough.
Those people are WRONG. The only way to prove them wrong is by electing John McCain.
This year, a motley crew of independent activists, ranging from zealous idealists to pragmatic realists, have developed a new home for all of us who want the RIGHT kind of change in America. 'Let's Get This Right' is the epicenter of grassroots support for McCain and other strategically chosen candidates who can ensure that in 2009, America heads in the right direction.
Today, millions of PUMAs will voice their dissent to the DNC's ill-advised, undemocratic selection of their nominee by donating to the McCain campaign. I invite you all to contribute $19.64 - one penny for each day of John McCain's POW captivity - or an amount suitable to your means through the Let's Get it Right Fundraising Movement.
Money can't buy you an election, but it can buy you a voice. Let's show McCain that we will speak up for him. Today we declare our independence from overspending government, Big Brother policies, and amoral leadership. Today, and in November, we will get this right.
Prior to this Presidential election, I have never given money to any political candidate. Frankly, I need my money to fill my gas tank and raise my kids. But this year is different. This year we have a candidate of unprecedented courage who will not run again. Against all odds, we have a real chance to elect a President with character, conviction and qualifications - the experience to know what to do, and the backbone to do it.
Many people have tried to tell me, directly or indirectly, that this cause is foolish. That McCain isn't really a hero - just a guy who flew a plane that got shot down. That McCain isn't really going to solve anything. That McCain can't possibly do any good because he's too old. Too feisty. Too Republican. Or not Republican enough.
Those people are WRONG. The only way to prove them wrong is by electing John McCain.
This year, a motley crew of independent activists, ranging from zealous idealists to pragmatic realists, have developed a new home for all of us who want the RIGHT kind of change in America. 'Let's Get This Right' is the epicenter of grassroots support for McCain and other strategically chosen candidates who can ensure that in 2009, America heads in the right direction.
Today, millions of PUMAs will voice their dissent to the DNC's ill-advised, undemocratic selection of their nominee by donating to the McCain campaign. I invite you all to contribute $19.64 - one penny for each day of John McCain's POW captivity - or an amount suitable to your means through the Let's Get it Right Fundraising Movement.
Money can't buy you an election, but it can buy you a voice. Let's show McCain that we will speak up for him. Today we declare our independence from overspending government, Big Brother policies, and amoral leadership. Today, and in November, we will get this right.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
An Open Letter to General Wesley Clark
Dear General Clark,
I am not a military wife. I am not a member of the armed services. But I am an American. And when those men and women fight and die, they fight for me too. For my children, for my right to live the American way of life.
This week, you went on national television and said of John McCain:
You not only impugned my favorite candidate, but did so by dishonoring the service of millions of men and women and their families. You confirmed the most shameful of sentiments: that troops' service is only admirable until they come home, at which point it makes them an irrelevant footnote in our country's history and a burden on its present. And nothing could be further from the truth.
In the interest of fairness, there is one valid point there. Military service alone is not sufficient to rubber-stamp an otherwise unqualified President (hence the public's rejection of your own short-lived bid for the Presidency). McCain's "leadership" as a POW alone includes coordinating covert communications among imprisoned troops, maintaining morale under unspeakable conditions, conducting Christian services from memory, honoring his commitment to country above his own hide.
They say that a good soldier 'never leaves a man behind.' So it is truly a sad day when someone of your stature and accomplishment puts partisanship ahead of respect for the importance and relevance of serving one's country. John McCain gave a lifetime of service to his country, and you sold him out for a sound bite. Shame on you.
To his credit (and yes it pains me to give him any), Obama rightfully disowned your remarks. But unfortunately the damage - to the morale of our troops, fighting daily in 100+ degree heat, is done. Considering the foolish fracas over his temper, John McCain's response to you was more gentlemanly and courteous than mine - as always, McCain is more interested in discussing what's best for the country - affordable energy, freedom from terrorism, and financial security - than what's best for McCain.
The essence of leadership is the courage to do what is right, putting the needs of those you serve above yourself. On the battlefield. In captivity. In Congress. In the media. And with the American people. And *that* is what John McCain is really about.
Today, I invite every American who disagrees with you, General Clark, on the relevance of military service, to donate $19.64 - one PENNY for every day of McCain's captivity in VietNam. (See 'Slatecard' link at right.) Please add a comment that this is in honor of General Clark and I'll be sure to pass along our total for your edification.
General Clark, this week Moms across America - even those of us who are challenged by gas and grocery prices, will shake our couch cushions and hold Freedom Bake Sales and Yellow Ribbon Lemonade Stands. We will get out the vote and we will get out the funds to ensure that our nation has strong, proven leadership under President John McCain. And know that when you speak indifferently about anyone in my country's uniform, you do NOT speak for me.
Sincerely,
Moms for McCain
I am not a military wife. I am not a member of the armed services. But I am an American. And when those men and women fight and die, they fight for me too. For my children, for my right to live the American way of life.
This week, you went on national television and said of John McCain:
“He hasn't held executive responsibility. That large squadron in the Navy that
he commanded -- that wasn't a wartime squadron...."“Well, I don't think riding in a fighter plane and getting shot down is a qualification to be president.”
You not only impugned my favorite candidate, but did so by dishonoring the service of millions of men and women and their families. You confirmed the most shameful of sentiments: that troops' service is only admirable until they come home, at which point it makes them an irrelevant footnote in our country's history and a burden on its present. And nothing could be further from the truth.
In the interest of fairness, there is one valid point there. Military service alone is not sufficient to rubber-stamp an otherwise unqualified President (hence the public's rejection of your own short-lived bid for the Presidency). McCain's "leadership" as a POW alone includes coordinating covert communications among imprisoned troops, maintaining morale under unspeakable conditions, conducting Christian services from memory, honoring his commitment to country above his own hide.
They say that a good soldier 'never leaves a man behind.' So it is truly a sad day when someone of your stature and accomplishment puts partisanship ahead of respect for the importance and relevance of serving one's country. John McCain gave a lifetime of service to his country, and you sold him out for a sound bite. Shame on you.
To his credit (and yes it pains me to give him any), Obama rightfully disowned your remarks. But unfortunately the damage - to the morale of our troops, fighting daily in 100+ degree heat, is done. Considering the foolish fracas over his temper, John McCain's response to you was more gentlemanly and courteous than mine - as always, McCain is more interested in discussing what's best for the country - affordable energy, freedom from terrorism, and financial security - than what's best for McCain.
The essence of leadership is the courage to do what is right, putting the needs of those you serve above yourself. On the battlefield. In captivity. In Congress. In the media. And with the American people. And *that* is what John McCain is really about.
Today, I invite every American who disagrees with you, General Clark, on the relevance of military service, to donate $19.64 - one PENNY for every day of McCain's captivity in VietNam. (See 'Slatecard' link at right.) Please add a comment that this is in honor of General Clark and I'll be sure to pass along our total for your edification.
General Clark, this week Moms across America - even those of us who are challenged by gas and grocery prices, will shake our couch cushions and hold Freedom Bake Sales and Yellow Ribbon Lemonade Stands. We will get out the vote and we will get out the funds to ensure that our nation has strong, proven leadership under President John McCain. And know that when you speak indifferently about anyone in my country's uniform, you do NOT speak for me.
Sincerely,
Moms for McCain
Monday, June 30, 2008
The $1.25 Store
This week my 5-yr-old earned his 'good behavior reward trip' to the dollar store, where we were greeted by the following sign: "Due to rising power and shipping costs, all items are now $1.25." No, it wasn't a joke, but a rather sad sign that our next President will be a failure if he doesn't successfully address gas prices.
We've all heard the tweed-jacketed experts on the news explaining that Pricey gas = Expensive stuff = Unhappy people. And 90% of Americans agree (when do 90% of Americans ever agree on *anything*?). Not to be outdone, the McCain folks have created their own "Lexington Project: Breaking Our Dependence on Foreign Oil."
Beyond fancy graphics, the Lexington Project (as in "the town where Americans asserted their Independence once before") promotes both the values (ingenuity, creativity, responsibility) and the nuts-and-bolts (domestic offshore drilling, clean coal, nuclear options) which can solve this crisis. Click on the graphic above to see for yourself.
Politicians and the media could get more mileage from the 'green' movement (mileage pun intended) if they emphasized green money along with our green planet. The two go hand in hand. I am all for responsible stewardship, but at the end of the day, I care more about feeding, clothing, and housing my family than I do about rainforests or polar bears. And while they may be reluctant to admit it, I believe most Americans, who increasingly can't afford their commute or their groceries, agree with me.
We've all heard the tweed-jacketed experts on the news explaining that Pricey gas = Expensive stuff = Unhappy people. And 90% of Americans agree (when do 90% of Americans ever agree on *anything*?). Not to be outdone, the McCain folks have created their own "Lexington Project: Breaking Our Dependence on Foreign Oil."
Beyond fancy graphics, the Lexington Project (as in "the town where Americans asserted their Independence once before") promotes both the values (ingenuity, creativity, responsibility) and the nuts-and-bolts (domestic offshore drilling, clean coal, nuclear options) which can solve this crisis. Click on the graphic above to see for yourself.
Politicians and the media could get more mileage from the 'green' movement (mileage pun intended) if they emphasized green money along with our green planet. The two go hand in hand. I am all for responsible stewardship, but at the end of the day, I care more about feeding, clothing, and housing my family than I do about rainforests or polar bears. And while they may be reluctant to admit it, I believe most Americans, who increasingly can't afford their commute or their groceries, agree with me.
John McCain's recent proposals have indeed ruffled some feathers (no wildlife pun intended this time). To those who have reservations about some of these ground-breaking proposals, I have these thoughts:
We would all love to live in a world where everything we buy magically appears in stores and cars run on sunshine and rainbows. But alas, this is the real world. Which means we have to meet in the middle - changing our behavior and our awareness but also Going Where No Environmentalist Has Gone Before. Like the bottom of our oceans. Like nuclear plants. And we have to do it without hesitation or reservation. Because the alternative - $10 a gallon gas purchased from shady Middle-Eastern sources - makes American dreams of security and independence impossible.
John McCain is a brave and unique candidate. He is attacking what was previously 'Republican Kryptonite' head-on. He's showing that he will be a President who will make my country more prosperous - and my son happier.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Mom on the Spot: McCain Seattle HQ!
Drum roll: the Moms4McCain blog will be featured in an upcoming issue of AllYou magazine, sold by subscription and at Wal-Mart stores (some features online here). They are doing a feature piece about first-time political activists (yours truly!) and I was honored to participate. More details are forthcoming soon!
In preparation for the article, I spent today at a photo shoot at the local Republican HQ, meeting some great local volunteers and talking with the Washington state coordinator about McCain's path to victory in our state. Yes, Washington is usually blue. But don't count us out yet. McCain is within 10-13 points, and strong down-ticket candidates include rightful Governor Dino Rossi, local law enforcement hero-turned-Congressman Dave Reichert and top-notch Attorney General Rob McKenna. Like New York, Washington is psychologically divided between big-city Blue Seattle and the less-urban but more-plentiful 'Red State regions' to the east. I am optmistic that McCain's no-nonsense policies and heroic history will have unique appeal throughout the Evergreen State.
Whether these races go red or blue, it was enlightening to see the political gears turning behind the scenes. It was truly inspiring to me, at 31, to meet volunteers and workers a half-generation younger than myself, speaking eloquently and passionately about their candidates and their cause. The very gracious folks in the Reichert office helped out as a group of total strangers dragged a camera crew into their office, and even offered me some of their lunch.
Free lunches aside, I really encourage you all to get involved - if only so you get to SEE a campaign office 'up close and personal' and see the sweat these volunteers put in for their candidates. Blogging and online work is an important part of the effort but it's not the only part. Take a minute and get involved with the McCain campaign and grassroots movement, and support other local candidates in your area.
If you're not sure how to get involved, when or where your talents can be used, please contact me at moms4mccain at yahoo.com and I'll help you find a home.
In preparation for the article, I spent today at a photo shoot at the local Republican HQ, meeting some great local volunteers and talking with the Washington state coordinator about McCain's path to victory in our state. Yes, Washington is usually blue. But don't count us out yet. McCain is within 10-13 points, and strong down-ticket candidates include rightful Governor Dino Rossi, local law enforcement hero-turned-Congressman Dave Reichert and top-notch Attorney General Rob McKenna. Like New York, Washington is psychologically divided between big-city Blue Seattle and the less-urban but more-plentiful 'Red State regions' to the east. I am optmistic that McCain's no-nonsense policies and heroic history will have unique appeal throughout the Evergreen State.
Whether these races go red or blue, it was enlightening to see the political gears turning behind the scenes. It was truly inspiring to me, at 31, to meet volunteers and workers a half-generation younger than myself, speaking eloquently and passionately about their candidates and their cause. The very gracious folks in the Reichert office helped out as a group of total strangers dragged a camera crew into their office, and even offered me some of their lunch.
Free lunches aside, I really encourage you all to get involved - if only so you get to SEE a campaign office 'up close and personal' and see the sweat these volunteers put in for their candidates. Blogging and online work is an important part of the effort but it's not the only part. Take a minute and get involved with the McCain campaign and grassroots movement, and support other local candidates in your area.
If you're not sure how to get involved, when or where your talents can be used, please contact me at moms4mccain at yahoo.com and I'll help you find a home.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Q&A: Tracy from 'Independents for McCain'
We’ve heard from Republicans and Democrats supporting McCain, today’s Q&A is with Tracy, a Mom from Austin, Texas. Tracy is the founder of 'Independents for McCain', and is one of many non-partisan people across America supporting McCain for President. Check out her blog on the Ning site or MySpace. Thanks Tracy for sharing your thoughts!
Tell us about yourself. I have three kids: 11, 14 and 15 (all girls). I live just outside Austin, Texas. I used to work as a journalist, then went into public relations before a diagnosis of epilepsy sidelined my career (I'm now on disability and writing a novel).
What is your involvement in politics? Has it changed this election season? My previous involvement in politics would be mainly limited to working as a volunteer for Hillary Clinton's campaign (making phones calls, acting as a delegate, blogging, etc.), when I was in PR I was a spokesperson for an elected Republican official. The first thing I did when I turned 18 was register to vote, so I have always been very political.
Since you're active and interested in politics, why have you chosen to be an 'Independent'? In Texas, you do not have to register with either party to vote in the primaries, as you do in some states, so it's easy to be Independent. You simply go to the primary and tell the election officials which primary you want to vote in. In 2000 I voted in the Republican primary for John McCain. This year I voted in the Democratic primary for Hillary Clinton.
I'm Independent because I don't stand behind a party, I stand behind a candidate. I don't like partisan politics, and my beliefs are all over the board. For example, I was raised Catholic, but I am pro-choice but also in favor of the death penalty. Doesn't make much sense to many people, but that's how my life has shaped me.
Why did you choose to support John McCain in this election? I feel John McCain is by far the most qualified person to lead the country. Had McCain won the primary in 2000, there's a good chance I would have voted for him (since he didn't, I voted for Gore; I've never been a huge Bush fan but I would vote for him over Obama).
During the primary season I've had ample time to do my homework and what I've discovered about Barack Obama is, frankly, terrifying. His ties to extremists, to criminals, to Ayers, his own wife's views -- all speak to his lack of judgment. I don't trust the man. I will never vote for him, no matter who he picks for his VP running mate. His lack of experience alone would make me strongly hesitate, plus his platform is way too far to the left for me; his character takes him completely out of the running.
Didn’t you say you’re pro-choice? Aren’t the Democrats insisting this is a reason why former Hillary supporters won’t vote for McCain? Ahh, the old pro choice threat! I have several things to say about that. First, as I said, I look at the totality of the candidate, and everything about Obama takes him out of the running for me, period.
Second, McCain has vowed to appoint judges who will not legislate from the bench and I do trust him on his word. It's an empty threat on the part of the DNC, in other words, Roe vs Wade is not going to be overturned. It's a scare tactic.
I personally think Obama goes way too far on abortion, and I could never in good conscience agree with him on that issue. It's just a choice I wouldn't take away in the first few weeks (even if it's not one I would make myself).
As an active Hillary volunteer and supporter, what is your perception of other Hillary supporters’ sentiment since she left the race? I'd say the ones I've spoken to personally are about 75% leaning toward McCain (but these are people online who know more about Obama than those in the general public, who only know what the mainstream media puts out there). The rest are sadly sticking with Obama, but I have stayed friends with most, though not all. I made my stance clear very early on.
In the "real world" I've heard the numbers are about 30% of Hillary supporters going to McCain, but I wouldn't be surprised if it's higher than that. The DNC PO’ed a lot of people. I think many are just staying quiet. The ones who I talk to who are staying with Obama are really big on gay marriage or welfare issues, things like that. I think they will be in for a big surprise.
I keep stressing that the President doesn't make the laws; Congress makes laws and POTUS can veto them or at times introduce something, but for the most part that's not his/her job. So it's really not up to the prez to decide about healthcare, etc. But most people don't get that.
I think McCain is going to do what the majority of the country wants, but he's going to use his best judgment, and I trust his judgment. As we've seen, we can't trust Obama's judgment.
Any parting thoughts for fellow Independents trying to choose a candidate? Hillary and McCain both have a history of being bipartisan, and McCain has a proven record of getting things done.
Thanks Tracy for sharing your thoughts!
Tell us about yourself. I have three kids: 11, 14 and 15 (all girls). I live just outside Austin, Texas. I used to work as a journalist, then went into public relations before a diagnosis of epilepsy sidelined my career (I'm now on disability and writing a novel).
What is your involvement in politics? Has it changed this election season? My previous involvement in politics would be mainly limited to working as a volunteer for Hillary Clinton's campaign (making phones calls, acting as a delegate, blogging, etc.), when I was in PR I was a spokesperson for an elected Republican official. The first thing I did when I turned 18 was register to vote, so I have always been very political.
Since you're active and interested in politics, why have you chosen to be an 'Independent'? In Texas, you do not have to register with either party to vote in the primaries, as you do in some states, so it's easy to be Independent. You simply go to the primary and tell the election officials which primary you want to vote in. In 2000 I voted in the Republican primary for John McCain. This year I voted in the Democratic primary for Hillary Clinton.
I'm Independent because I don't stand behind a party, I stand behind a candidate. I don't like partisan politics, and my beliefs are all over the board. For example, I was raised Catholic, but I am pro-choice but also in favor of the death penalty. Doesn't make much sense to many people, but that's how my life has shaped me.
Why did you choose to support John McCain in this election? I feel John McCain is by far the most qualified person to lead the country. Had McCain won the primary in 2000, there's a good chance I would have voted for him (since he didn't, I voted for Gore; I've never been a huge Bush fan but I would vote for him over Obama).
During the primary season I've had ample time to do my homework and what I've discovered about Barack Obama is, frankly, terrifying. His ties to extremists, to criminals, to Ayers, his own wife's views -- all speak to his lack of judgment. I don't trust the man. I will never vote for him, no matter who he picks for his VP running mate. His lack of experience alone would make me strongly hesitate, plus his platform is way too far to the left for me; his character takes him completely out of the running.
Didn’t you say you’re pro-choice? Aren’t the Democrats insisting this is a reason why former Hillary supporters won’t vote for McCain? Ahh, the old pro choice threat! I have several things to say about that. First, as I said, I look at the totality of the candidate, and everything about Obama takes him out of the running for me, period.
Second, McCain has vowed to appoint judges who will not legislate from the bench and I do trust him on his word. It's an empty threat on the part of the DNC, in other words, Roe vs Wade is not going to be overturned. It's a scare tactic.
I personally think Obama goes way too far on abortion, and I could never in good conscience agree with him on that issue. It's just a choice I wouldn't take away in the first few weeks (even if it's not one I would make myself).
As an active Hillary volunteer and supporter, what is your perception of other Hillary supporters’ sentiment since she left the race? I'd say the ones I've spoken to personally are about 75% leaning toward McCain (but these are people online who know more about Obama than those in the general public, who only know what the mainstream media puts out there). The rest are sadly sticking with Obama, but I have stayed friends with most, though not all. I made my stance clear very early on.
In the "real world" I've heard the numbers are about 30% of Hillary supporters going to McCain, but I wouldn't be surprised if it's higher than that. The DNC PO’ed a lot of people. I think many are just staying quiet. The ones who I talk to who are staying with Obama are really big on gay marriage or welfare issues, things like that. I think they will be in for a big surprise.
I keep stressing that the President doesn't make the laws; Congress makes laws and POTUS can veto them or at times introduce something, but for the most part that's not his/her job. So it's really not up to the prez to decide about healthcare, etc. But most people don't get that.
I think McCain is going to do what the majority of the country wants, but he's going to use his best judgment, and I trust his judgment. As we've seen, we can't trust Obama's judgment.
Any parting thoughts for fellow Independents trying to choose a candidate? Hillary and McCain both have a history of being bipartisan, and McCain has a proven record of getting things done.
Thanks Tracy for sharing your thoughts!
Monday, June 23, 2008
50 Ideas for the McCain Campaign
Yes, I am a compulsive list maker. And no, these are not brilliant policy suggestions. I am not a 'wonkette', I am merely an average citizen who desperately wants a competent President.
If McCain wants to win, he needs some fresh ideas to shake things up.
SO, for your consideration, 50 ideas to get started.
SLOGANS! McCain needs ‘em. Good ones.
1. Slogan for Townhall Podium: McCain - Proven Leadership for America
2. Slogan for MySpace: McCain - An Old Guy with New Ideas
3. Slogan for security and military talks: McCain - Because America is Worth Fighting For
4. Slogan for economic talks: McCain - Balance and Prosperity for America
5. Slogan for convention: McCain – Integrity, Service, Leadership
6. Slogan for media avails: McCain – Walking the Walk
7. Slogan for rallies and rah-rah events: McCain – Pride in America’s Future
8. Slogan for summer BBQ (at which pork ribs and pulled pork sandwiches and Budweiser beer are served): McCain – Save the Pork for the BBQ Pit
9. Slogan for convention: McCain – Honoring Our Traditions, Celebrating Our Future
10. Slogan for public events: McCain – Responsible Leadership You Can Trust
THE EYES HAVE IT: VISUAL AND INTERACTIVE IDEAS
11. Hire a pro-McCain political cartoonist to post regularly on the McCain site (or host a contest for ‘unknown’ artists to enter).
12. Make a Decision Center-style ‘chart’ showing experience and credentials of McCain and Obama (i.e. 25 yrs in the Senate versus 4, 20+ yrs of military service versus zero, etc.)
13. Create an interactive calculator and chart, showing how much money families would pay in taxes under Barack Obama or John McCain. Add variables for death tax, business taxes, etc. if possible and link to anecdotes/testimonials from people in similar situations (retirees, people with kids, business owners, farmers, etc).
14. Create a montage of funny or humorous moments, showcasing McCain’s sense of humor. Include the crowd’s response (which is lost in a newspaper or web article).
15. Feature a ‘McCain Volunteer of the Day (or Week)’ on the website, let them tell their (short) story about why they support McCain and what they’re doing to help him get elected. Use first name, profession, hometown and picture. (Note: since I wrote this draft, www.mccainnow.com has started this - great minds think alike!)
16. Feature a ‘McCain Voter of the Day’ and give them a paragraph to share their thoughts.
17. Feature a quiz/poll for first-time voters on the issues (i.e. many teens and college students don’t know if they’re liberal or conservative and may be surprised to find they agree with McCain more).
18. Have a Q&A “McCain answers your questions” section on the Website. Have real, average people with pictures of themselves ask a question, i.e. “What are you doing about gas prices?” and have McCain himself film a video and/or printed response. Promote these heavily on YouTube, blogs and grassroots sites.
19. Create a signature graphic besides just the name and the star. (Oh, and don’t violate federal law to ‘pimp out’ any time-honored symbols of our country.)
20. Let’s see more photos of McCain WITH VOTERS, kissing babies, shaking hands, filling sandbags in Iowa. McCain Blogette style.
BE A LITTLE LESS DIGNIFIED.
21. Every once in a while, lose the suit. I love the ‘Navy’ hat, reminds us of your service and makes you look younger and more casual at the same time. A winner.
22. Let us see you drinking beer at your ranch, hiking the canyon with your sons. There is a story here and it is: McCain is fun, relatable, and young at heart.
23. Let Republicans be LOUD. I’m guessing young military folks are a good audience for this. “The rowdy crowd gave him a standing ovation.”
24. Theme songs! I still think of Bill Clinton when I hear “Don’t Stop (Thinking About Tomorrow).”
25. Bring others up to speak with you too. Bobby Jindal got lots of good exposure intro’ing McCain in Louisiana, but it helped McCain look less isolated. It also gives a rah-rah cheerleader a chance to say what McCain is too humble to say himself.
26. No more black and white montages! Puh-leeeze! Emphasizes McCain looking old, rather than traditions. The new website is a step in the right direction.
27. Would love to see amusing John McCain quote or joke of the day emailed / website-featured.
28. More appearances on unusual TV shows – Ellen, David Letterman, SNL were all good. Send Cindy and Meghan McCain too, women can relate to both of them.
29. Put McCain on talk radio, with the pundits who criticized him, to talk directly (and intelligently) with them.
30. Or better yet, put McCain on talk radio (tape delay for common sense protection of the airwaves!) and let him take calls from the audience.
SPOTLIGHT YOUR VOLUNTEERS AND DONORS.
31. See #15 above.
32. Offer prizes or goodies from the McCain Store for referring ‘friends’ and recruits (this is already underway, would like it expanded).
33. Host local, FUN events, Happy Hour, Meetups, to get folks energized and share ideas. (again, grassroots folks are already doing this, but campaign should be funding and supporting this too)
34. Mention them in your speeches: i.e. Jane Smith of Pigs’ Knuckle, Pennsylvania sent me $25 and the following note…
35. Tell people what their money goes to: i.e. “$500 funds xx calls to McCain supporters, $1200 buys enough flyers for an entire zip code in a swing state.”
36. Have a list of projects donors can ‘sponsor’: i.e. Your donation of $2137.56 can buy all the centerpieces for the finance reception in Anytown, USA. Thank donors on the website.
37. Have Cindy host a free beer reception for the top volunteers in the area. (And yes, I’m serious.)
38. Feature “first time donors” on the website (like the 'McCain Aces'), have a tally of how many new donors contributed today.
39. Form additional coalitions through the campaign (Doctors for McCain, Clergy for McCain, Teachers for McCain, etc.)
40. Have a running tally of online donations per day – like the telethon (McCain a Thon?). So when people donate in real time they can see how much was donated that day.
SHOW YOU'RE A FAMILY MAN.
41. Have McCain visit schools, even in underprivileged areas, in key swing states, have a town hall with HS kids and address education policy.
42. Invite wife Cindy to open up about being a military Mom. I respect the family’s desire for safety for their sons, but sharing her emotional experiences would be meaningful without putting them in harm’s way.
43. Share the story of daughter Bridget’s adoption and talk more about adoption as a positive social institution and valuable abortion alternative. (This will please both pro-life advocates and socially-conscious swing voters.)
44. Share some experiences as a father: attending football games, taking kids to college, sending sons to war. Don't have to parade the children to do this, just share the Dad's perspective. Dads are important voters too!
45. Include more photos of McCain with his family and kids, including candids. This is relatable and important to anyone who’s a parent, and emphasizes family values without traipsing them along for public scrutiny and hassles.
SHINE LIKE A STAR.
46. Emphasize celebrity endorsements in targeted markets (youth, women, etc). Use a testimonial quote, do a fundraiser and take lots of photos to release to the press and even MySpace, Facebook, etc.
47. Have the celebs who are willing go and hang out with volunteers, answer phones at HQ. (Sadly, there are people who will vote for Obama because they think all their favorite people are doing so – this may be enough just for them to stop and think, or check out what McCain really has to offer.)
48. Clint Eastwood in a pink McCain hat!! This is so awesome!! But the photo was only on the McCain site . This should be all over the Hollywood and movie fan boards.
49. Tom Selleck appeals to a broad range of demographics, from women who think he’s cute to men who envied his Magnum, P.I. mustache. He is a known advocate of gun rights and other conservative issues and, by all reports, a good guy (a friend met him once while he was filming in my hometown).
50. Heidi Montag of ‘The Hills’ (which, at 31, I think even I am too old to watch?!?) could galvanize young women for McCain. Maybe she and Meghan McCain could do a fashion show event to raise money for the campaign?
Watch for more ideas next week! In the meantime, please join the conversation at McCainNOW and the Ning networking site.
If McCain wants to win, he needs some fresh ideas to shake things up.
SO, for your consideration, 50 ideas to get started.
SLOGANS! McCain needs ‘em. Good ones.
1. Slogan for Townhall Podium: McCain - Proven Leadership for America
2. Slogan for MySpace: McCain - An Old Guy with New Ideas
3. Slogan for security and military talks: McCain - Because America is Worth Fighting For
4. Slogan for economic talks: McCain - Balance and Prosperity for America
5. Slogan for convention: McCain – Integrity, Service, Leadership
6. Slogan for media avails: McCain – Walking the Walk
7. Slogan for rallies and rah-rah events: McCain – Pride in America’s Future
8. Slogan for summer BBQ (at which pork ribs and pulled pork sandwiches and Budweiser beer are served): McCain – Save the Pork for the BBQ Pit
9. Slogan for convention: McCain – Honoring Our Traditions, Celebrating Our Future
10. Slogan for public events: McCain – Responsible Leadership You Can Trust
THE EYES HAVE IT: VISUAL AND INTERACTIVE IDEAS
11. Hire a pro-McCain political cartoonist to post regularly on the McCain site (or host a contest for ‘unknown’ artists to enter).
12. Make a Decision Center-style ‘chart’ showing experience and credentials of McCain and Obama (i.e. 25 yrs in the Senate versus 4, 20+ yrs of military service versus zero, etc.)
13. Create an interactive calculator and chart, showing how much money families would pay in taxes under Barack Obama or John McCain. Add variables for death tax, business taxes, etc. if possible and link to anecdotes/testimonials from people in similar situations (retirees, people with kids, business owners, farmers, etc).
14. Create a montage of funny or humorous moments, showcasing McCain’s sense of humor. Include the crowd’s response (which is lost in a newspaper or web article).
15. Feature a ‘McCain Volunteer of the Day (or Week)’ on the website, let them tell their (short) story about why they support McCain and what they’re doing to help him get elected. Use first name, profession, hometown and picture. (Note: since I wrote this draft, www.mccainnow.com has started this - great minds think alike!)
16. Feature a ‘McCain Voter of the Day’ and give them a paragraph to share their thoughts.
17. Feature a quiz/poll for first-time voters on the issues (i.e. many teens and college students don’t know if they’re liberal or conservative and may be surprised to find they agree with McCain more).
18. Have a Q&A “McCain answers your questions” section on the Website. Have real, average people with pictures of themselves ask a question, i.e. “What are you doing about gas prices?” and have McCain himself film a video and/or printed response. Promote these heavily on YouTube, blogs and grassroots sites.
19. Create a signature graphic besides just the name and the star. (Oh, and don’t violate federal law to ‘pimp out’ any time-honored symbols of our country.)
20. Let’s see more photos of McCain WITH VOTERS, kissing babies, shaking hands, filling sandbags in Iowa. McCain Blogette style.
BE A LITTLE LESS DIGNIFIED.
21. Every once in a while, lose the suit. I love the ‘Navy’ hat, reminds us of your service and makes you look younger and more casual at the same time. A winner.
22. Let us see you drinking beer at your ranch, hiking the canyon with your sons. There is a story here and it is: McCain is fun, relatable, and young at heart.
23. Let Republicans be LOUD. I’m guessing young military folks are a good audience for this. “The rowdy crowd gave him a standing ovation.”
24. Theme songs! I still think of Bill Clinton when I hear “Don’t Stop (Thinking About Tomorrow).”
25. Bring others up to speak with you too. Bobby Jindal got lots of good exposure intro’ing McCain in Louisiana, but it helped McCain look less isolated. It also gives a rah-rah cheerleader a chance to say what McCain is too humble to say himself.
26. No more black and white montages! Puh-leeeze! Emphasizes McCain looking old, rather than traditions. The new website is a step in the right direction.
27. Would love to see amusing John McCain quote or joke of the day emailed / website-featured.
28. More appearances on unusual TV shows – Ellen, David Letterman, SNL were all good. Send Cindy and Meghan McCain too, women can relate to both of them.
29. Put McCain on talk radio, with the pundits who criticized him, to talk directly (and intelligently) with them.
30. Or better yet, put McCain on talk radio (tape delay for common sense protection of the airwaves!) and let him take calls from the audience.
SPOTLIGHT YOUR VOLUNTEERS AND DONORS.
31. See #15 above.
32. Offer prizes or goodies from the McCain Store for referring ‘friends’ and recruits (this is already underway, would like it expanded).
33. Host local, FUN events, Happy Hour, Meetups, to get folks energized and share ideas. (again, grassroots folks are already doing this, but campaign should be funding and supporting this too)
34. Mention them in your speeches: i.e. Jane Smith of Pigs’ Knuckle, Pennsylvania sent me $25 and the following note…
35. Tell people what their money goes to: i.e. “$500 funds xx calls to McCain supporters, $1200 buys enough flyers for an entire zip code in a swing state.”
36. Have a list of projects donors can ‘sponsor’: i.e. Your donation of $2137.56 can buy all the centerpieces for the finance reception in Anytown, USA. Thank donors on the website.
37. Have Cindy host a free beer reception for the top volunteers in the area. (And yes, I’m serious.)
38. Feature “first time donors” on the website (like the 'McCain Aces'), have a tally of how many new donors contributed today.
39. Form additional coalitions through the campaign (Doctors for McCain, Clergy for McCain, Teachers for McCain, etc.)
40. Have a running tally of online donations per day – like the telethon (McCain a Thon?). So when people donate in real time they can see how much was donated that day.
SHOW YOU'RE A FAMILY MAN.
41. Have McCain visit schools, even in underprivileged areas, in key swing states, have a town hall with HS kids and address education policy.
42. Invite wife Cindy to open up about being a military Mom. I respect the family’s desire for safety for their sons, but sharing her emotional experiences would be meaningful without putting them in harm’s way.
43. Share the story of daughter Bridget’s adoption and talk more about adoption as a positive social institution and valuable abortion alternative. (This will please both pro-life advocates and socially-conscious swing voters.)
44. Share some experiences as a father: attending football games, taking kids to college, sending sons to war. Don't have to parade the children to do this, just share the Dad's perspective. Dads are important voters too!
45. Include more photos of McCain with his family and kids, including candids. This is relatable and important to anyone who’s a parent, and emphasizes family values without traipsing them along for public scrutiny and hassles.
SHINE LIKE A STAR.
46. Emphasize celebrity endorsements in targeted markets (youth, women, etc). Use a testimonial quote, do a fundraiser and take lots of photos to release to the press and even MySpace, Facebook, etc.
47. Have the celebs who are willing go and hang out with volunteers, answer phones at HQ. (Sadly, there are people who will vote for Obama because they think all their favorite people are doing so – this may be enough just for them to stop and think, or check out what McCain really has to offer.)
48. Clint Eastwood in a pink McCain hat!! This is so awesome!! But the photo was only on the McCain site . This should be all over the Hollywood and movie fan boards.
49. Tom Selleck appeals to a broad range of demographics, from women who think he’s cute to men who envied his Magnum, P.I. mustache. He is a known advocate of gun rights and other conservative issues and, by all reports, a good guy (a friend met him once while he was filming in my hometown).
50. Heidi Montag of ‘The Hills’ (which, at 31, I think even I am too old to watch?!?) could galvanize young women for McCain. Maybe she and Meghan McCain could do a fashion show event to raise money for the campaign?
Watch for more ideas next week! In the meantime, please join the conversation at McCainNOW and the Ning networking site.
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