Tempting as it was to post a 'Why I Love Obama' rant this morning, I thought some of you might want to avoid being fools this election season. Here are some of my favorite informational sites (no pundits, just facts):
POLLS: Lots of fishy information out there, for useful daily information see Gallup or Rasmussen (Real Clear Politics also shows primary races and state-by-state polls in the margins).
CANDIDATE POSITIONS: VoteMatch Quiz - punch in your views and it spits out a candidate (should be good food for thought to unite conservatives who embrace McCain and those who cling to reservations). Told me I m a 'populist leaning conservative' (hey, maybe I'd make a good VP!). Does NOT take into account character, military service, crazy pastors, or pantsuit strategery.
Truth-O-Meter - equal-opportunity whistleblowers do some fact-checking and often give facts to back up claims. No candidate is exempt but so far the worst they have on McCain in recent weeks is a misunderstanding about the Jewish holiday of Purim (if you're reading, Senator, here you go).
Okay Moms - go get informed!!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Give him the pen!
We've all heard the reports about trouble with The Economy. I'm a Mom, not an economist, so I thought it would be refreshing to talk about the huge sums of actual money already in the government's hands.
Until this election, I assumed 'earmarks' were a minor unfortunate cost of doing business in Washington. But when I saw the actual numbers I realized how ridiculous the scope of earmarks has become. Hillary Clinton herself had $342 million in earmarks last year alone (Obama has attempted to have his money cake and spend it too, working on earmark legislation yet managing about $80 million himself). That kind of money would buy a lot of vaccines, schoolbooks, new roads or even - gasp - put some money back into our pockets (by my math Hillary owes everyone in America $1 for 2006.).
Since Congress had a chance to end this practice and failed us, the only way to end this practice is as our founders intended, with the President's veto pen. John McCain's distinctive refusal to sneak millions of dollars onto his bills, and his vocal crusade against the practice, put teeth into his promise to veto earmarked bills from his Oval Office. The New York Post quotes McCain:
McCain has the backbone, we the voters need to give him the pen.
Thanks to Partisan American for pointing out the elusive (but scary!) numbers...
Until this election, I assumed 'earmarks' were a minor unfortunate cost of doing business in Washington. But when I saw the actual numbers I realized how ridiculous the scope of earmarks has become. Hillary Clinton herself had $342 million in earmarks last year alone (Obama has attempted to have his money cake and spend it too, working on earmark legislation yet managing about $80 million himself). That kind of money would buy a lot of vaccines, schoolbooks, new roads or even - gasp - put some money back into our pockets (by my math Hillary owes everyone in America $1 for 2006.).
Since Congress had a chance to end this practice and failed us, the only way to end this practice is as our founders intended, with the President's veto pen. John McCain's distinctive refusal to sneak millions of dollars onto his bills, and his vocal crusade against the practice, put teeth into his promise to veto earmarked bills from his Oval Office. The New York Post quotes McCain:
"Pork-barrel spending," McCain says, "is an insult to taxpayers, a waste of public resources, and an abdication of our leaders' responsibility to be good and honorable stewards of the public treasury, for the benefit of all Americans, not just a few." He says he wants to end, not mend, earmarks, and in the
meantime he declines to seek them for his own state.
McCain has the backbone, we the voters need to give him the pen.
Thanks to Partisan American for pointing out the elusive (but scary!) numbers...
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Why I do NOT want a woman President
The media has offered several hypotheses why so many 'Hillary Democrats' say their second choice is McCain rather than Obama. I believe that many women, especially in my generation, have felt compelled to support Hillary's candidacy, perhaps out of fear that she will be the only woman to get this important opportunity. Implicit in the debate is the belief that NOT supporting a viable female candidate is turning our back on our sisters and their many sacrifices for our rights today.
There is a major flaw in this logic: the actual positions and the type of politics espoused by Hillary are NOT what's best for American women or their families. When we step away from character, integrity and important issue positions, we disrespect the legacy our foremothers worked so hard to create.
John McCain is the best "woman's candidate" not because of body parts but because of principles and priorities. He acknowledges that we care more about our families' financial independence than any bill in Congress. He acknowledges that we want open, accountable government because we don't have time to scour bills for minutiae to understand when our money is being wasted. We fill the minivan with $89 worth of gas not because we hate the planet or love the foreign oil producers, but because we made a promise to be somewhere for our kids, period. We vote with our values because as Moms, we are the first teachers and often the last voice of reason our kids will ever hear.
John McCain's presidency will assure women that our voices can and will be heard not just today, but for generations to come.
There is a major flaw in this logic: the actual positions and the type of politics espoused by Hillary are NOT what's best for American women or their families. When we step away from character, integrity and important issue positions, we disrespect the legacy our foremothers worked so hard to create.
John McCain is the best "woman's candidate" not because of body parts but because of principles and priorities. He acknowledges that we care more about our families' financial independence than any bill in Congress. He acknowledges that we want open, accountable government because we don't have time to scour bills for minutiae to understand when our money is being wasted. We fill the minivan with $89 worth of gas not because we hate the planet or love the foreign oil producers, but because we made a promise to be somewhere for our kids, period. We vote with our values because as Moms, we are the first teachers and often the last voice of reason our kids will ever hear.
John McCain's presidency will assure women that our voices can and will be heard not just today, but for generations to come.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Gasp: NYT acknowledges McCain's record
Maybe after digging through everything possibly available, even the ridiculously biased folks at the New York Times have to admit: McCain is his own man, and he has the experience to back up his so-called 'maverick' assertions.
David Brooks wrote an interesting, well-researched piece about McCain's foreign policy credentials and his tradition of integrity to his principles. (And while we're counting, in 1983, when McCain entered the Senate, Obama was a 21-year-old college student; Clinton was Arkansas' first lady and mother of a 3-yr-old.)
How many politicians do you know who care less about partisan politics or glib appearances and more about what is right? Not many! Let's elect one now while we have the chance!
David Brooks wrote an interesting, well-researched piece about McCain's foreign policy credentials and his tradition of integrity to his principles. (And while we're counting, in 1983, when McCain entered the Senate, Obama was a 21-year-old college student; Clinton was Arkansas' first lady and mother of a 3-yr-old.)
How many politicians do you know who care less about partisan politics or glib appearances and more about what is right? Not many! Let's elect one now while we have the chance!
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Most Americans agree: on government, less is more
As a Mom, nothing is harder than letting go. You wince as your toddler wobbles precariously, knowing she's about to fall. It hurts at first, but you see the end goal: your child must learn to stand and walk on her own.
As I researched candidates' priorities, I was intrigued by Clinton and Obama's vast promises of economic salvation. McCain, ever a breath of fresh air, commented:
The media and Democatic ridicule began, but this finding got buried: most Americans agree with McCain - government hand-holding is not the way to solve our economic problems.
Our President has to be an expert on, well, being Presidential. Being Commander-in-Chief. Balancing out Congress. Appointing judges who will do their job with professionalism and restraint. Representing our country around the world, to friendly and unfriendly audiences. The Constitution, not the media, determine what a President should do. And last time I checked, mortgage accounting was not very high on the list!
See more about John McCain's economic vision for America here.
As I researched candidates' priorities, I was intrigued by Clinton and Obama's vast promises of economic salvation. McCain, ever a breath of fresh air, commented:
"it is not the duty of government to bail out and reward those who act irresponsibly, whether they are big banks or small borrowers."
The media and Democatic ridicule began, but this finding got buried: most Americans agree with McCain - government hand-holding is not the way to solve our economic problems.
Our President has to be an expert on, well, being Presidential. Being Commander-in-Chief. Balancing out Congress. Appointing judges who will do their job with professionalism and restraint. Representing our country around the world, to friendly and unfriendly audiences. The Constitution, not the media, determine what a President should do. And last time I checked, mortgage accounting was not very high on the list!
See more about John McCain's economic vision for America here.
Faith of our Fathers
So much has been written about Obama's pastor and church lately, I found this article discussing John McCain's pastor and church community. McCain also discusses the foundations of his personal faith in his book Faith of Our Fathers - I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to know more about real bravery and character. I am not a big 'war book' person like my Dad (who had an entire wall of military history books at out house), but McCain's account of his imprisonment, which I expected to be bleak, was surprisingly upbeat.
I have encountered McCain supporters from all faith backgrounds, I believe his sincerity and integrity can transcend otherwise bitter divisions and lead our country in the right direction.
I have encountered McCain supporters from all faith backgrounds, I believe his sincerity and integrity can transcend otherwise bitter divisions and lead our country in the right direction.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
'Rats continue leaving the ship?
Yesterday I commented on McCain's conservative credentials, because to listen to talk radio, hard-core conservative blogs and other sources, you'd think there was rebellion in the Republican ranks. Being a former research analyst, I like to see (gasp) actual data before leaping to any conclusions.
A fellow 'McCain Mom' pointed out today's Gallup and Rasmussen polls which address this (more at FoxNews) . While the there is some threat of defection among very conservative Republicans (about 11% say they wouldn't vote for McCain unless he aligns himself with a conservative VP), nearly twice as many Obama (19%) and Clinton supporters (28%) say they will vote for McCain if their candidate doesn't get the nomination. This continues the trend we saw last week.
While the article notes that threats of defections across party lines are rare, I believe that McCain's endorsements from across the aisle, Clinton's polarizing history of flip-floppery and Obama's lack of experience make this anyone's game until November. Stay tuned!
A fellow 'McCain Mom' pointed out today's Gallup and Rasmussen polls which address this (more at FoxNews) . While the there is some threat of defection among very conservative Republicans (about 11% say they wouldn't vote for McCain unless he aligns himself with a conservative VP), nearly twice as many Obama (19%) and Clinton supporters (28%) say they will vote for McCain if their candidate doesn't get the nomination. This continues the trend we saw last week.
While the article notes that threats of defections across party lines are rare, I believe that McCain's endorsements from across the aisle, Clinton's polarizing history of flip-floppery and Obama's lack of experience make this anyone's game until November. Stay tuned!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Is McCain conservative?
My Mommy-forums have been abuzz with rumors and misinformation about McCain's "conservative" record, and as a passionate supporter I wanted to respond.
As I see it, belief in personal responsibility and accountable, limited-scope government are *the* most important conservative values - and the most conspicuously absent from any other candidates' record or platform. For starters, McCain has a consistent pro-life record and has been the #1 fighter against wasteful spending in Washington long before it was fashionable.
Everyone has a different definition of 'conservative' but I truly believe that McCain will be a President who restores accountability to all levels of federal government, pride to the Republican party, and credibility and dignity to the Oval Office.
For more see the Wall Street Journal's 'Conservative Case for McCain'...
As I see it, belief in personal responsibility and accountable, limited-scope government are *the* most important conservative values - and the most conspicuously absent from any other candidates' record or platform. For starters, McCain has a consistent pro-life record and has been the #1 fighter against wasteful spending in Washington long before it was fashionable.
Everyone has a different definition of 'conservative' but I truly believe that McCain will be a President who restores accountability to all levels of federal government, pride to the Republican party, and credibility and dignity to the Oval Office.
For more see the Wall Street Journal's 'Conservative Case for McCain'...
Do as I do, not as I say
Reality check for you Moms: how many of us have occasionally cringed to watch our kids 'do as we do' not as we say (anyone else get busted raiding the leftover Easter candy)? While we're human and make mistakes, leading by example is truly the most important thing we can do for our kids. I support McCain because I think it's time we held our leaders to the same standard.
The #1 thing that makes McCain worth blogging and volunteering and donating for isn't his military service or positions on individual issues (although those are relevant and important). He is true to his principles and refuses to be manipulated by the lobbyists and special interests that cling to most Senators like barnacles to a neglected boat. (Once you've said 'no' to people who broke your arms and tortured you for five years, it's not a big deal to say 'no thanks' to unethical lobbyists and manipulators).
Someone in one of my CafeMom groups posted a great piece from the Wall Street Journal which praised McCain for this rare courage:
As they say, ain't nothing like the real thing. If integrity and courage matter then there is no excuse for not giving McCain your full support in this election. He walked the walk for his country and his principles - will you?
The #1 thing that makes McCain worth blogging and volunteering and donating for isn't his military service or positions on individual issues (although those are relevant and important). He is true to his principles and refuses to be manipulated by the lobbyists and special interests that cling to most Senators like barnacles to a neglected boat. (Once you've said 'no' to people who broke your arms and tortured you for five years, it's not a big deal to say 'no thanks' to unethical lobbyists and manipulators).
Someone in one of my CafeMom groups posted a great piece from the Wall Street Journal which praised McCain for this rare courage:
While others talk of courage, honor and dedication, John McCain exemplifies those virtues. At a time when America's integrity and purpose were being questioned, his fortitude helped reaffirm our core beliefs.... After more than five years of imprisonment, he finally came hobbling home, and with a broad smile and a firm salute, took our collective breath away.
(snip) No one better represents this than Mr. McCain. His
authenticity, unlike that of his Democratic Party counterparts, is beyond
question. What you see is what you get, and what you get is the real thing.
As they say, ain't nothing like the real thing. If integrity and courage matter then there is no excuse for not giving McCain your full support in this election. He walked the walk for his country and his principles - will you?
Monday, March 24, 2008
Stand up for what is right, even when you're standing alone
Yahoo! just posted a summary of McCain's comments following his Iraq trip. Try to ignore the author's snarky comments about how 'stuffy' the hall was (maybe a week with our troops in Iraq would re-define her sense of discomfort?!?)
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Update: More Purple
After posting about Pennsylvania this morning, I just saw an update on electoral college trends in key swing states, from Rasmussen via Blogs4McCain. I'll be curious to see how 'sour grapes defections' from bitter Dems to McCain vary from state to state.
Pennsylvania Purple?
As I colored Easter eggs this week, I couldn't help but think about American states 'changing color' as Democratic candidates perpetuate in-fighting and get further out of touch with what actual people care about. If you're bored this weekend, try your hand at 'coloring by numbers'.
As of this week, Pennsylvania Democrats are so tie-dyed (note gratuitous hippie reference), a surprising number of both Obama and Clinton supporters say they would vote for McCain rather than for the other Democrat. Guess sour grapes are purple...
Happy Easter to all...
Via Bama Pachyderm
As of this week, Pennsylvania Democrats are so tie-dyed (note gratuitous hippie reference), a surprising number of both Obama and Clinton supporters say they would vote for McCain rather than for the other Democrat. Guess sour grapes are purple...
Happy Easter to all...
Via Bama Pachyderm
Friday, March 21, 2008
The Baby-Sitters' Club?
Yesterday I posted about trust and how I think that is the #1 factor for many of us when choosing our candidate for President.
So here's a reality check: how many of you would leave your *kids* with any of the current candidates or their spouses? BabyCenter had a poll posted this morning asking who you'd trust, please take a minute to VOTE! (Keep SuperNanny on speed dial!)
For those who don't know, Cindy McCain is Mom to 4 kids, including my Blogette inspiration Meghan McCain, and adopted daughter Bridget who the McCains met during a charity trip to Asia. I must admit having read about McCain's navy flyboy days in Faith of our Fathers, I would not have left THAT guy with my little ones, but we all know if there's one thing seasoned politicans can do it's hold and kiss babies.
PS - If anyone has pics of your little ones in McCain regalia send them along and I'll put them up next week!
So here's a reality check: how many of you would leave your *kids* with any of the current candidates or their spouses? BabyCenter had a poll posted this morning asking who you'd trust, please take a minute to VOTE! (Keep SuperNanny on speed dial!)
For those who don't know, Cindy McCain is Mom to 4 kids, including my Blogette inspiration Meghan McCain, and adopted daughter Bridget who the McCains met during a charity trip to Asia. I must admit having read about McCain's navy flyboy days in Faith of our Fathers, I would not have left THAT guy with my little ones, but we all know if there's one thing seasoned politicans can do it's hold and kiss babies.
PS - If anyone has pics of your little ones in McCain regalia send them along and I'll put them up next week!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Who do you trust?
One of the reasons I support McCain is his honesty - he's an experienced politican who (gasp) says what he really thinks, and actually does what he says he's gonna do. I find it really refreshing, evidently I'm not the only one...
According to Gallup Poll , 67% of Americans find McCain 'trustworthy', significantly more than either Clinton or Obama. (Which begs the question, why wouldn't all 67% of those people vote for him? Let's hope with a few months to think on it they will!)
According to Gallup Poll , 67% of Americans find McCain 'trustworthy', significantly more than either Clinton or Obama. (Which begs the question, why wouldn't all 67% of those people vote for him? Let's hope with a few months to think on it they will!)
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Welcome from Mommyland
Greetings friends and strangers to my Digital Soapbox!
I typically remain on the sidelines of political chats, but this election is too important NOT to share my, er, suds.
I support John McCain for President for his integrity, character, experience, candor, passion, knowledge, service mentality, and refreshingly sincere approach to domestic and international issues.
Here on planet earth, with two little ones, a home-based business and a husband who works loooong hours, I don't have time for talk radio, FoxNews 24/7, or mean-spirited punditry. BUT I have a responsibility to my family (and my country) to get educated about the candidates and issues, and now to step forward and support McCain and his brave vision for our nation.
My mission, over the coming months, will be to share resources that will convince undecided or wrongly-decided voters of all parties - especially otherwise ignored 'Mommy Voters' - that McCain is the right person for the job.
Thanks for listening...
I typically remain on the sidelines of political chats, but this election is too important NOT to share my, er, suds.
I support John McCain for President for his integrity, character, experience, candor, passion, knowledge, service mentality, and refreshingly sincere approach to domestic and international issues.
Here on planet earth, with two little ones, a home-based business and a husband who works loooong hours, I don't have time for talk radio, FoxNews 24/7, or mean-spirited punditry. BUT I have a responsibility to my family (and my country) to get educated about the candidates and issues, and now to step forward and support McCain and his brave vision for our nation.
My mission, over the coming months, will be to share resources that will convince undecided or wrongly-decided voters of all parties - especially otherwise ignored 'Mommy Voters' - that McCain is the right person for the job.
Thanks for listening...
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