I just received this and thought some of you Southern Belle Mamas might want to check it out!
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John McCain is coming to Georgia Thursday to campaign for Saxby Chambliss. It will be at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre at 4:30 pm. Come out an show your support. He needs all the help we can give him. It is very important that we do not lose this senate seat. Anything you can do help in this runoff would be greatly appreciated. Visit his website and volunteer if you have the time!!
http://www.saxby.org/
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
And I Am Telling You...I'm NOT Going...
As you can imagine, I've had a lot on my plate this week in my political life AND in my (gasp) real life. But I want to let you all know that I will be blogging and sharing thoughts and resources for Moms in the future. I'm taking a few MUCH needed mental-health days and will be returning next week ready to move forward.
In the meantime, I want to offer a brief pep talk for those who need it (if you're reading this, you probably do.). I'm 31 years old and I've never cared about an election as much as I cared about this one. John McCain is a true hero to America, and to me. But I'm going to live for many, many years. I will live under good Presidents and bad ones. Ones I like and ones I don't like. Ones who do a great job and ones who double my blood pressure medication. The world goes on turning, and the sun will rise tomorrow. (Unless, like me, you're in Seattle, where the current weather suggests I should be building an ark.)
It is important and necessary to grieve. We had an outstanding candidate, and he lost. That stinks. We will experience all the stages of loss: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. It is okay and healthy to go through that.
But as I have said a million times before, ACTION is the antidote. As McCain himself said, if you find fault with your country, make it a better one. My goal in months and months of work on the blog and forums and groups has been to create resources so anyone who wants to do something positive and constructive has the opportunity, no matter where you live, what your lifestyle is, what your financial status is.
We conservative-moderates are not 'suddenly' a minority voice, we have always been a minority voice in a world where 90% of the media are human beings who share different ideals. The difference is now we are a minority voice with fewer advocates on the front lines. That simply means more of us "regular people" - yes, Joe the Plumbers - have to put down the plunger and take up the cause of liberty. It means we have to shout instead of whispering. It means we have to do our homework and have facts to make our case (because, yes, some people actually are interested in those). It means we have to unite and help each other, share resources and ideas, unite behind basic principles and stop 'sweating the small stuff.'
I will return next week with some exciting NEW resources for all of you, and I want to sincerely thank the many wonderful readers and friends who continue to encourage me. In the meantime, please visit Let's Get This Right, a social networking mecca for conservatives and home to lots of great links and resources.
In the meantime, I want to offer a brief pep talk for those who need it (if you're reading this, you probably do.). I'm 31 years old and I've never cared about an election as much as I cared about this one. John McCain is a true hero to America, and to me. But I'm going to live for many, many years. I will live under good Presidents and bad ones. Ones I like and ones I don't like. Ones who do a great job and ones who double my blood pressure medication. The world goes on turning, and the sun will rise tomorrow. (Unless, like me, you're in Seattle, where the current weather suggests I should be building an ark.)
It is important and necessary to grieve. We had an outstanding candidate, and he lost. That stinks. We will experience all the stages of loss: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. It is okay and healthy to go through that.
But as I have said a million times before, ACTION is the antidote. As McCain himself said, if you find fault with your country, make it a better one. My goal in months and months of work on the blog and forums and groups has been to create resources so anyone who wants to do something positive and constructive has the opportunity, no matter where you live, what your lifestyle is, what your financial status is.
We conservative-moderates are not 'suddenly' a minority voice, we have always been a minority voice in a world where 90% of the media are human beings who share different ideals. The difference is now we are a minority voice with fewer advocates on the front lines. That simply means more of us "regular people" - yes, Joe the Plumbers - have to put down the plunger and take up the cause of liberty. It means we have to shout instead of whispering. It means we have to do our homework and have facts to make our case (because, yes, some people actually are interested in those). It means we have to unite and help each other, share resources and ideas, unite behind basic principles and stop 'sweating the small stuff.'
I will return next week with some exciting NEW resources for all of you, and I want to sincerely thank the many wonderful readers and friends who continue to encourage me. In the meantime, please visit Let's Get This Right, a social networking mecca for conservatives and home to lots of great links and resources.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
With a Little Help From My Friends
In just over 7 months, what started as a rookie housewife on her couch has grown to a national movement that has reached nearly 20,000 people all around the world. It would not have been possible to do so much in so little time without a LOT of help.
THANK YOU to...
My dear husband, independent 'mushy middle' voter, booed while holding my McCain signs for me at the fair, you endured profuse typing, sub-par frozen dinners and unwashed laundry.
My mother, a longtime Republican who got dozens of calls consisting of: "can you give my kids a bath while I talk to a reporter?" and always came through with a smile. My son, who during this election grew into a little man and an elementary student. My daughter, who was a baby when I started and is now every bit a two-year-old, thank you for delighting an entire room full of volunteers and our Congressman Dave Reichert by pointing to the cardboard cutout and saying "Look! John MCCAIN!!"
Linda, a fellow "stealth Republican" who didn't think I was crazy when I mentioned I was considering a blog project, and encouraged me to give it a try. And Lynne, who had never met me but let me invite 10 friends and a news crew to her house - with two hours' notice (really).
Brad Marston and Sheridan Folger, without whom John McCain would not have been the nominee. Period.
Michael Schuyler who didn't laugh at me when I couldn't figure out how to change my background color, and did an excellent job corraling the huddled masses of McCainiacs.
Steve Maloney, whose effusive praise and strategic ideas helped me think bigger and connected me with many useful and inspiring people.
The campaign staffers who graciously created a headquarters that didn't exist using a banner they didn't have and phonebank volunteers who hadn't been recruited on non-working phones and borrowed signs and buttons. The Reichert and GOP staffers who interrupted their work for an hour while we borrowed the backs of their heads.
The many wonderful Moms who guest-posted, shared their experiences, and left comments.
The Moms who got involved, stepped up and went outside their comfort zone. The SIGN MOMS, the question-askers, the pep-talkers and talkees, the phonebankers and doorbellers and armchair analysts and marketers and unofficial pollsters.
For the Palin bloggers, especially Adam and Paul, who reminded us that Moms ARE the GOP's future - figuratively, and literally.
Anne Franklin and the Clintons4McCain and PUMA team, for rolling up their sleeves and showing what amazing things can be accomplished when people support not just what is popular or convenient, but what is right.
CafeMom friends, for humoring me when I admitted I liked McCain. For the undecided Moms who gave me a chance to make my case. For the board admins who didn't kick off a McCain supporter back when we were pariahs. For the "nose holders," the gung-ho McCainiacs, the nail-biters and the cheerleaders, I appreciate you.
The Obama Thugs, paid and unpaid, who orchestrated a "freeze" on every pro-McCain or anti-Obama blog on Blogger, thank you for reminding me how important my freedom of speech really is, and how much this project truly means to me. And to the commenters who taught me to have a thicker skin and reminded me to pray for those who truly need it.
The respectful non-McCain supporters who shared their opinions like grownups and encouraged a young Mom who was usually in over her head to keep swimming.
This has been a life-changing experience, I will never think of my country, my government, the media, or my fellow citizens in quite the same way.
It is absolutely positively possible to make a difference. But only if YOU decide that it is. Nothing happens if you decide to do nothing.
THANK YOU to...
My dear husband, independent 'mushy middle' voter, booed while holding my McCain signs for me at the fair, you endured profuse typing, sub-par frozen dinners and unwashed laundry.
My mother, a longtime Republican who got dozens of calls consisting of: "can you give my kids a bath while I talk to a reporter?" and always came through with a smile. My son, who during this election grew into a little man and an elementary student. My daughter, who was a baby when I started and is now every bit a two-year-old, thank you for delighting an entire room full of volunteers and our Congressman Dave Reichert by pointing to the cardboard cutout and saying "Look! John MCCAIN!!"
Linda, a fellow "stealth Republican" who didn't think I was crazy when I mentioned I was considering a blog project, and encouraged me to give it a try. And Lynne, who had never met me but let me invite 10 friends and a news crew to her house - with two hours' notice (really).
Brad Marston and Sheridan Folger, without whom John McCain would not have been the nominee. Period.
Michael Schuyler who didn't laugh at me when I couldn't figure out how to change my background color, and did an excellent job corraling the huddled masses of McCainiacs.
Steve Maloney, whose effusive praise and strategic ideas helped me think bigger and connected me with many useful and inspiring people.
The campaign staffers who graciously created a headquarters that didn't exist using a banner they didn't have and phonebank volunteers who hadn't been recruited on non-working phones and borrowed signs and buttons. The Reichert and GOP staffers who interrupted their work for an hour while we borrowed the backs of their heads.
The many wonderful Moms who guest-posted, shared their experiences, and left comments.
The Moms who got involved, stepped up and went outside their comfort zone. The SIGN MOMS, the question-askers, the pep-talkers and talkees, the phonebankers and doorbellers and armchair analysts and marketers and unofficial pollsters.
For the Palin bloggers, especially Adam and Paul, who reminded us that Moms ARE the GOP's future - figuratively, and literally.
Anne Franklin and the Clintons4McCain and PUMA team, for rolling up their sleeves and showing what amazing things can be accomplished when people support not just what is popular or convenient, but what is right.
CafeMom friends, for humoring me when I admitted I liked McCain. For the undecided Moms who gave me a chance to make my case. For the board admins who didn't kick off a McCain supporter back when we were pariahs. For the "nose holders," the gung-ho McCainiacs, the nail-biters and the cheerleaders, I appreciate you.
The Obama Thugs, paid and unpaid, who orchestrated a "freeze" on every pro-McCain or anti-Obama blog on Blogger, thank you for reminding me how important my freedom of speech really is, and how much this project truly means to me. And to the commenters who taught me to have a thicker skin and reminded me to pray for those who truly need it.
The respectful non-McCain supporters who shared their opinions like grownups and encouraged a young Mom who was usually in over her head to keep swimming.
This has been a life-changing experience, I will never think of my country, my government, the media, or my fellow citizens in quite the same way.
It is absolutely positively possible to make a difference. But only if YOU decide that it is. Nothing happens if you decide to do nothing.
John McCain: Make History Today
From John McCain (emphasis mine):
My Friends,
From the time I entered the Naval Academy at age seventeen I have been privileged and honored to serve my country.
Throughout my years of service, I've been faced with challenges where I could have taken the easy way out and given up. But I'm an American and I never give up. Instead, I choose to show courage and stand up and fight for the country I love. Today, I am asking you to stand with me and to fight for our country's future.
Our country faces enormous challenges and our next president must be ready to lead on day one. My lifetime of experience has prepared me to lead our great nation. I'm prepared to bring solutions to our economic challenges, bring our troops home in victory and improve our nation's healthcare system.
Time and time again, my country has saved my life and I owe her more than she has ever owed me. I have chosen to show my gratitude through a life of service to our country and tomorrow, you will have a choice before you.
I humbly ask you to make the choice that will allow me to serve my country a little while longer by casting your vote to elect me as your next President of the United States.
Finally, I ask that you never forget that much has been sacrificed to protect our right to vote. We must never forget those Americans who, with their courage, with their sacrifice, and with their lives, have protected our freedom. It is my great hope that you will exercise your right to vote as an American tomorrow.
I thank you for your kind support, your dedication to our cause, and most importantly I thank you for your vote.
With sincere appreciation,
John McCain
My Friends,
From the time I entered the Naval Academy at age seventeen I have been privileged and honored to serve my country.
Throughout my years of service, I've been faced with challenges where I could have taken the easy way out and given up. But I'm an American and I never give up. Instead, I choose to show courage and stand up and fight for the country I love. Today, I am asking you to stand with me and to fight for our country's future.
Our country faces enormous challenges and our next president must be ready to lead on day one. My lifetime of experience has prepared me to lead our great nation. I'm prepared to bring solutions to our economic challenges, bring our troops home in victory and improve our nation's healthcare system.
Time and time again, my country has saved my life and I owe her more than she has ever owed me. I have chosen to show my gratitude through a life of service to our country and tomorrow, you will have a choice before you.
I humbly ask you to make the choice that will allow me to serve my country a little while longer by casting your vote to elect me as your next President of the United States.
Finally, I ask that you never forget that much has been sacrificed to protect our right to vote. We must never forget those Americans who, with their courage, with their sacrifice, and with their lives, have protected our freedom. It is my great hope that you will exercise your right to vote as an American tomorrow.
I thank you for your kind support, your dedication to our cause, and most importantly I thank you for your vote.
With sincere appreciation,
John McCain
Monday, November 3, 2008
Worth The Fighting For
When people are faced with a challenge, there are two directions we can go. We can backtrack, retreat, weasel out of it, change (or PRETEND to change) how much we care. Or we can swallow hard, roll up our sleeves, and get to work. We can grumble and cower and sigh OR we can stand behind the people who are willing to face the headwinds and keep on going.
Today I have encountered every type of discouraging story possible. The Mom whose disabled son, unable to read a ballot, was "helped" to vote behind her back. The signs that were stolen, the screams out people's window. The people whose lives, homes, well-being was threatened if they didn't vote for Obama. Today I want everyone reading this to STOP and take a breath.
America is an experiment. Other people had tried republics, democracies, it usually ended due to too much wine, too much testosterone, and too much time on their hands. (Hey, if they'd had Xbox, Rome might never have fallen.) But America exists because people got mad. Fed up. PO'ed. Frustrated. Even desperate. We can let this anger and frustration destroy us OR we can use it positively.
If you're mad about the biased media, call a senior in Ohio or Pennsylvania who only gets her current events from the 6pm news, and tell her the other side of the story. If you're mad about ACORN's voter fraud and dirty-dealing, volunteer to be a poll watcher and keep everyone accountable for fairness. If you're worried about socialism, 1st amendment, 2nd amendment, the unborn, the American worker, small business, food on the table, gas prices, terror attacks - DON'T spend your time panicking and worrying and stewing. DO something about it.
I challenge anyone who reads this blog to commit to 20 minutes of your time on phone calling or if you're really chicken (cluck cluck, you know who you are), emailing people you know to tell them that you support John McCain and they should too.
I enjoy blogging, but I don't do it for the enjoyment. I've been flattered to get some attention for doing it, but that's not why I do it. I'll never serve my country in uniform or saving lives or building houses for the poor. I'll serve my country by raising responsible, healthy children and showing them, that I'm willing to stand up for what is right, whether it's popular or not. Are you? Would you give up 20 minutes for a better America? Do I need to remind you of the horrors of the Hanoi Hilton or will you just trust me that relative to what John McCain has given YOU this is not a lot to ask?
I've given you links, ideas, encouragement, news, shortcuts and hopefully even a few laughs. Now I'm asking you for 20 calls. If you value what you've seen and read here, I am setting this as the price of admission. If you believe in John McCain, pick up your phone and carry our candidate across the finish line.
Trust me, you'll be glad you did.
Today I have encountered every type of discouraging story possible. The Mom whose disabled son, unable to read a ballot, was "helped" to vote behind her back. The signs that were stolen, the screams out people's window. The people whose lives, homes, well-being was threatened if they didn't vote for Obama. Today I want everyone reading this to STOP and take a breath.
America is an experiment. Other people had tried republics, democracies, it usually ended due to too much wine, too much testosterone, and too much time on their hands. (Hey, if they'd had Xbox, Rome might never have fallen.) But America exists because people got mad. Fed up. PO'ed. Frustrated. Even desperate. We can let this anger and frustration destroy us OR we can use it positively.
If you're mad about the biased media, call a senior in Ohio or Pennsylvania who only gets her current events from the 6pm news, and tell her the other side of the story. If you're mad about ACORN's voter fraud and dirty-dealing, volunteer to be a poll watcher and keep everyone accountable for fairness. If you're worried about socialism, 1st amendment, 2nd amendment, the unborn, the American worker, small business, food on the table, gas prices, terror attacks - DON'T spend your time panicking and worrying and stewing. DO something about it.
I challenge anyone who reads this blog to commit to 20 minutes of your time on phone calling or if you're really chicken (cluck cluck, you know who you are), emailing people you know to tell them that you support John McCain and they should too.
I enjoy blogging, but I don't do it for the enjoyment. I've been flattered to get some attention for doing it, but that's not why I do it. I'll never serve my country in uniform or saving lives or building houses for the poor. I'll serve my country by raising responsible, healthy children and showing them, that I'm willing to stand up for what is right, whether it's popular or not. Are you? Would you give up 20 minutes for a better America? Do I need to remind you of the horrors of the Hanoi Hilton or will you just trust me that relative to what John McCain has given YOU this is not a lot to ask?
I've given you links, ideas, encouragement, news, shortcuts and hopefully even a few laughs. Now I'm asking you for 20 calls. If you value what you've seen and read here, I am setting this as the price of admission. If you believe in John McCain, pick up your phone and carry our candidate across the finish line.
Trust me, you'll be glad you did.
Election Day Info and Tips: Non-Partisan
NO McCain shirts/hats/buttons at the polls. Bring your ID (and your camera to record fraud). Watch your P's and Q's.
Here are some more excellent non-partisan tips from Yahoo:
A GREAT way McCain Moms can help this election year is offering to drive seniors or neighbors or others in need to the polls, OR offer to trade babysitting with a friend to ensure you both get to vote. It is well worth an hour of your time to make your voice heard.
Here are some more excellent non-partisan tips from Yahoo:
- Check your registration.
- Double check your polling place, know when it's open.
- Plan plenty of time to wait.
- Bring your government-issued ID.
- Beware of what you wear (i.e. no partisan gear).
- Beware of dirty tricks (EVERYONE votes November 4.)
- If something goes wrong, know your rights, ask for help.
A GREAT way McCain Moms can help this election year is offering to drive seniors or neighbors or others in need to the polls, OR offer to trade babysitting with a friend to ensure you both get to vote. It is well worth an hour of your time to make your voice heard.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Win Undecided Voters With a Question
Here are some "parting thoughts" to share with undecided voters, online, in person, on the phone:
Who do you trust to stand up to people with bad ideas or dishonest motives? Can you name one time Obama has shown courage or stood up for an unpopular idea? Who will deliver on this promise: the man who talks about it, or the man who's done it and has the scars to prove it?
Do you want a far-left Democratic President, Democratic supermajority in Congress, and liberal court who will rubber stamp everything each other does? (Lots about this at Divided We Succeed, interesting site supporting balanced 'divided' government).
Would you hire someone with no training or experience in your field to make life and death decisions for thousands of people and budget choices for billions of dollars? Then wouldn't McCain make a better Commander-in-Chief than Obama?
Do you care about gun rights? No? Well, if you'd ignore the 2nd amendment, the 1st and all the rest aren't far behind.
If you were building your dream home, who would you choose as the architect - the edgy young guy who never built anything to speak of, or the experienced veteran who has built many beautiful homes - even if he works for a firm that's not "in vogue"?
Do you want a man who thinks life and death decisions are "above his paygrade" or a President who's willing to take a stand?
Do you believe that a man who spent over $600 million to have a 50/50 shot at election will really spend your money responsibly?
And last but not least...
Who will make real "change" in government: a guy with a decades-long record of successful reform, or the guy who gives speeches about it?
Who do you trust to stand up to people with bad ideas or dishonest motives? Can you name one time Obama has shown courage or stood up for an unpopular idea? Who will deliver on this promise: the man who talks about it, or the man who's done it and has the scars to prove it?
Do you want a far-left Democratic President, Democratic supermajority in Congress, and liberal court who will rubber stamp everything each other does? (Lots about this at Divided We Succeed, interesting site supporting balanced 'divided' government).
Would you hire someone with no training or experience in your field to make life and death decisions for thousands of people and budget choices for billions of dollars? Then wouldn't McCain make a better Commander-in-Chief than Obama?
Do you care about gun rights? No? Well, if you'd ignore the 2nd amendment, the 1st and all the rest aren't far behind.
If you were building your dream home, who would you choose as the architect - the edgy young guy who never built anything to speak of, or the experienced veteran who has built many beautiful homes - even if he works for a firm that's not "in vogue"?
Do you want a man who thinks life and death decisions are "above his paygrade" or a President who's willing to take a stand?
Do you believe that a man who spent over $600 million to have a 50/50 shot at election will really spend your money responsibly?
And last but not least...
Who will make real "change" in government: a guy with a decades-long record of successful reform, or the guy who gives speeches about it?
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Q&A with Brenda from Iowa
I've shared Brenda's story here at Moms4McCain, and wanted Brenda to share a little bit more about her family, what happened, and why it matters. Thanks Brenda for taking the time to share your thoughts, and especially for your family's service to our country.
Tell us about yourself. My name is Brenda Lyddon. I moved from Baltimore, MD to Deep River, IA 5 yrs ago. I have a daughter now 13 yrs old and I wanted a safer and better education for her. I also have a 26 yr old disabled son. I knew he would have a better chance of living in a group home that is smaller and safer here in Iowa. I have a 22 yr old son who is in the Army and is currently deployed in Iraq. This is his 2nd tour and it is for 15 months. He believes in what he is doing for he just re-enlisted again last month in Iraq.
Tell us about your involvement in politics. Has this year been any different for you? I really started getting political during the 2004 election. I joined the Poweshiek County Republican Party. I did door-to-door canvassing and a few phone calls. This election I don't think I have slept in the last 2 months. I have gone door-to-door, made phone calls, joined many grassroots websites, blogging and made sure absentee ballots were sent to our military in theater. My 13 yr old daughter helps a lot. She was also elected as the Republican Jr. Caucus Chairperson for our district.
Who do you support in this election and why? I am backing the McCain/Palin ticket this election. There are a lot of important issues, but I have to say my reasons are more personal. First, I believe that my son's and fellow soldiers' lives are better served and safer in the hands of a decorated war hero and fellow blue star mom. John McCain has 2 sons serving at this time and Sarah Palin has a son serving in Iraq. Who better to be our CIC than a man who has worn the uniform and familar with foreign affairs. Also, with a disabled son I have had to fight the education system every step of the way. Sarah Palin will help ease the challenges we parents face everyday.
Tell us about your son and his "voting" experience. My son Kris is 26 yrs old and mentally and physically challenged. He receives SSI and is listed as mentally retarded and cerebral palsy. He lives in a small group home in Grinnell.
I have never registered him to vote because he does not have the mental capacity to chose for himself. The home he has lived in for almost 2 yrs recently registered him to vote. When I found this out I told them I do not want him to vote. Against my wishes, a staff member not only took him to vote, but told him who to vote for and actually voted for him.
I feel he was politicized. It does not matter who he voted for. I take my voting privilege very seriously. My son doesn't have a clue of what a president does. He is easily influenced. I will do everything in my power to get a law enacted so these individuals are never used again for political gain. My son's only concern is watching Texas Ranger and the Price is Right. He needs a guardian just to survive everyday life.
What action can we take to address this? What advice would you give to other families of adults with disabilities? Every family member who has a loved one in one of these homes or a senior facility needs to find out the election rights for disabled individuals in their state. Unfortunately, in my state my son does have the right to vote. I now have to challenge his vote with my county auditor. If I am able to challenge, it then goes to court where a judge determines if my son's vote can be overturned and deems him either competent or incompetent to vote in the future.
So please check on your loved ones and see if they are being used in this election. Our loved ones are supposed to have their everyday survival needs taken care of. Caretakers choosing for them in an election is not what they are paid to do.
Thank you Brenda for sharing your story. I hope justice is served for your son and your family. If you suspect voter fraud of any kind, by any party, against people with disabilities, please contact your local authorities, call 1-866-976-VOTE and/or use these resources to make your report.
Tell us about yourself. My name is Brenda Lyddon. I moved from Baltimore, MD to Deep River, IA 5 yrs ago. I have a daughter now 13 yrs old and I wanted a safer and better education for her. I also have a 26 yr old disabled son. I knew he would have a better chance of living in a group home that is smaller and safer here in Iowa. I have a 22 yr old son who is in the Army and is currently deployed in Iraq. This is his 2nd tour and it is for 15 months. He believes in what he is doing for he just re-enlisted again last month in Iraq.
Tell us about your involvement in politics. Has this year been any different for you? I really started getting political during the 2004 election. I joined the Poweshiek County Republican Party. I did door-to-door canvassing and a few phone calls. This election I don't think I have slept in the last 2 months. I have gone door-to-door, made phone calls, joined many grassroots websites, blogging and made sure absentee ballots were sent to our military in theater. My 13 yr old daughter helps a lot. She was also elected as the Republican Jr. Caucus Chairperson for our district.
Who do you support in this election and why? I am backing the McCain/Palin ticket this election. There are a lot of important issues, but I have to say my reasons are more personal. First, I believe that my son's and fellow soldiers' lives are better served and safer in the hands of a decorated war hero and fellow blue star mom. John McCain has 2 sons serving at this time and Sarah Palin has a son serving in Iraq. Who better to be our CIC than a man who has worn the uniform and familar with foreign affairs. Also, with a disabled son I have had to fight the education system every step of the way. Sarah Palin will help ease the challenges we parents face everyday.
Tell us about your son and his "voting" experience. My son Kris is 26 yrs old and mentally and physically challenged. He receives SSI and is listed as mentally retarded and cerebral palsy. He lives in a small group home in Grinnell.
I have never registered him to vote because he does not have the mental capacity to chose for himself. The home he has lived in for almost 2 yrs recently registered him to vote. When I found this out I told them I do not want him to vote. Against my wishes, a staff member not only took him to vote, but told him who to vote for and actually voted for him.
I feel he was politicized. It does not matter who he voted for. I take my voting privilege very seriously. My son doesn't have a clue of what a president does. He is easily influenced. I will do everything in my power to get a law enacted so these individuals are never used again for political gain. My son's only concern is watching Texas Ranger and the Price is Right. He needs a guardian just to survive everyday life.
What action can we take to address this? What advice would you give to other families of adults with disabilities? Every family member who has a loved one in one of these homes or a senior facility needs to find out the election rights for disabled individuals in their state. Unfortunately, in my state my son does have the right to vote. I now have to challenge his vote with my county auditor. If I am able to challenge, it then goes to court where a judge determines if my son's vote can be overturned and deems him either competent or incompetent to vote in the future.
So please check on your loved ones and see if they are being used in this election. Our loved ones are supposed to have their everyday survival needs taken care of. Caretakers choosing for them in an election is not what they are paid to do.
Thank you Brenda for sharing your story. I hope justice is served for your son and your family. If you suspect voter fraud of any kind, by any party, against people with disabilities, please contact your local authorities, call 1-866-976-VOTE and/or use these resources to make your report.
UPDATE: Disabled voter fraud happening nationwide
I was so saddened to hear of Brenda's story, but even more saddened to hear additional similar stories this morning. Brenda called in to Darla Shine's Happy Housewives Club radio show this morning (archived show will be up soon, Brenda called in about 40 minutes before the end of the show). She was immediately followed by another caller telling a similar story from a different part of the country. I have received reputable reports from North Carolina of similar fraud, and we've all heard the stories of bussing homeless citizens across state lines for early Ohio voting. We must speak out to protect our most vulnerable - defending their right to vote if they are capable, and ensuring that their wishes are followed out.
This is NOT a partisan issue. This is an ETHICS issue. I urge Obama supporters and campaign to speak out and denounce this, and I urge everyone who votes Tuesday to bring their cameras to record fraud and 'shenanigans.' Also see these voter fraud resources:
www.johnmccain.com/honest, McCain Campaign Hotline: 1-866-976-VOTE
Grassroots voter protection resources (non-partisan)
This is NOT a partisan issue. This is an ETHICS issue. I urge Obama supporters and campaign to speak out and denounce this, and I urge everyone who votes Tuesday to bring their cameras to record fraud and 'shenanigans.' Also see these voter fraud resources:
www.johnmccain.com/honest, McCain Campaign Hotline: 1-866-976-VOTE
Grassroots voter protection resources (non-partisan)
Obama supporters' fraud against disabled voters
We've all heard stories about shady dealings, coercion, bribery, and flat-out fraud when it comes to this year's election. Sadly, this impacted a fellow McCain Mom this week when her disabled adult son was brought to the polls without her knowledge or consent, where an aide 'took the liberty' of filling out his ballot (which he would not have been able to read). Brenda in Iowa writes:
Folks, this is NOT a partisan issue, this is unethical, immoral, illegal, and just plain wrong. If it had been a McCain supporter cheating for votes I would feel the same way and would demand punitive action. The fact that this young man, given the opportunity to vote as he chose, very well may have chosen McCain, just makes this a more frustrating situation.
If you're the parent of a disabled or 'vulnerable' adult, I urge you to look into the appropriate ways to have them participate in the process, and discuss your preferences and theirs with caregivers. I urge bloggers, website owners, and others to share this story and let everyone know we WILL hold accountable people who exploit volunerable citizens for political gain.
Please report instances of voter fraud or unethical behavior to the McCain Campaign and to your local Secretary of State / Board of Elections (leave a comment if you need help finding resources).
I know Brenda would appreciate your supportive comments too, I should note that she is a longtime McCain supporter and mother of a deployed soldier. Thank you in advance.
UPDATE: Michelle Malkin reports that this is happening nationwide and is alarmingly common. Please help get the word out!
My son was politicized!! I live in Iowa. I have a disabled 26 yr old son. I have never registered him to vote because 1. He is not mentally capable and 2. He couldn't read a ballot. He lives in a group home with others like him. They the homes staff registered my son to vote. When I found out I told them that he is NOT allowed to vote. I find out today they took him to vote and a home staff member told him who to vote for (Obama) and was actually the person who helped him vote. I am livid. They tell me it is his right and the law. They knew I would probably 'get him' on election day so they took him to vote early. I am shaking so bad right now. The staff used my son and others for political gains.
Folks, this is NOT a partisan issue, this is unethical, immoral, illegal, and just plain wrong. If it had been a McCain supporter cheating for votes I would feel the same way and would demand punitive action. The fact that this young man, given the opportunity to vote as he chose, very well may have chosen McCain, just makes this a more frustrating situation.
If you're the parent of a disabled or 'vulnerable' adult, I urge you to look into the appropriate ways to have them participate in the process, and discuss your preferences and theirs with caregivers. I urge bloggers, website owners, and others to share this story and let everyone know we WILL hold accountable people who exploit volunerable citizens for political gain.
Please report instances of voter fraud or unethical behavior to the McCain Campaign and to your local Secretary of State / Board of Elections (leave a comment if you need help finding resources).
I know Brenda would appreciate your supportive comments too, I should note that she is a longtime McCain supporter and mother of a deployed soldier. Thank you in advance.
UPDATE: Michelle Malkin reports that this is happening nationwide and is alarmingly common. Please help get the word out!
John McCain's Radio Address 11-1
THERE ARE LOTS OF NEW AND IMPORTANT POSTS TODAY, SCROLL DOWN TO CHECK THEM ALL OUT!! THANKS!!
* * *
(Audio of McCain's address is here.)
Good morning, this is John McCain, speaking to you just 72 hours before the time for choosing.
Presidential elections have a way of settling on a few great questions as the moment of decision arrives, and this has happened in the closing days of the election of 2008.
We've learned that Barack Obama's economic plan for America to redistribute the wealth of America with higher taxes. It took a working man in Ohio to finally get him to explain his economic plan in plain language. Senator Obama wants to "spread the wealth around." He thinks that your job is to earn wealth, and the government's job is to spread it.
I reject the ideology of redistributing wealth, and I always have. I believe that the only way to pull our economy out of this terrible time of worry and hardship is to spread opportunity. Low taxes reward effort and create jobs. We're going to double the child deduction for working families. We will cut the capital gains tax. And we will cut business taxes to help create jobs, and keep American business in America.
At the same time, I'm going to make government finally live on a budget, just like you do, and I am going to enforce that discipline by the power of veto.
My fellow Americans, we're going to get through this present economic crisis. And we will even come out stronger -- without the corruption and arrogance that have overtaken both Washington and Wall Street. We're going to pull through these hard times -- and do it together, just as our country has done before.
And when that day arrives, we will find awaiting our country all of the same great challenges and dangers that were there all along. At a time when the jobs and financial security of our people seem at risk, it is hard to spare much thought even for the great and abiding concerns of this nation's security, and the security of our friends and allies across the world. But these dangers have not gone away while we turned our attention elsewhere. And the next president will meet no greater test than defending America from these threats.
Victory must still be secured, in Iraq and Afghanistan. Senator Obama opposed removing the dictator in Iraq, and now obstinately opposes the need to defend the young democracy in that country -- even with victory so clearly in sight. He cites as his most courageous moment in public life a speech he gave in 2002 -- against a war resolution on which he had no vote, on a matter of national security for which he bore no responsibility. He hopes you will forget the votes he cast when he actually did have responsibility, his votes to prevent the strategy that is leading to victory, and to deny funding for the troops who are gaining that victory. And now he hopes that in the cloud of crisis at home you will forget the stakes in Iraq -- the disaster and tragedy that would follow if American forces leave in retreat.
With terrorists still plotting new strikes across the world, millions of innocent lives are still at stake, including American lives. Our enemies' violent ambitions must still be prevented -- by American vigilance, by diplomacy and cooperation with our partners, and by force of arms as a last resort. In his four years in the Senate, two of them spent running for president, Barack Obama has displayed some impressive qualities. But the question is whether this is a man who has what it takes to protect America from Osama bin Laden, al Qaeda, the prospect of a nuclear-armed Iran, and other grave threats in the world. And he has given you no reason to answer in the affirmative.
At the same time, Democrats in Congress have already proposed to cut defense spending by 25 percent. Even with our troops engaged in two wars, and with a force in need of rebuilding, we're getting a glimpse of what one-party rule would look like under Obama, Pelosi, and Reid.
Apparently it starts with lowering our defenses and raising our taxes.
At least when European nations chose the path of higher taxes and cutting defense, they knew that their security would be guaranteed by America. But if America takes the same path, who will guarantee our security?
We have passed through a difficult time, and more courage will be needed in the years ahead. But there is a direction to events, and the sacrifices of the present have not been in vain.
We will build on our hard-won victories to extend the security of our nation and of every nation that seeks to live in freedom. We will not yield to intimidation, and by our strength we will prevent threats from turning into tragedies. This is America's work in the world, as it always has been in our finest moments. We are called still to spread liberty, to assure justice, to be the makers of peace. And this is the great work I will carry on as your president and commander in chief.
To do all of this, my fellow Americans, I need your help. I need your confidence. And I am asking for your vote.
Thank you for listening
* * *
(Audio of McCain's address is here.)
Good morning, this is John McCain, speaking to you just 72 hours before the time for choosing.
Presidential elections have a way of settling on a few great questions as the moment of decision arrives, and this has happened in the closing days of the election of 2008.
We've learned that Barack Obama's economic plan for America to redistribute the wealth of America with higher taxes. It took a working man in Ohio to finally get him to explain his economic plan in plain language. Senator Obama wants to "spread the wealth around." He thinks that your job is to earn wealth, and the government's job is to spread it.
I reject the ideology of redistributing wealth, and I always have. I believe that the only way to pull our economy out of this terrible time of worry and hardship is to spread opportunity. Low taxes reward effort and create jobs. We're going to double the child deduction for working families. We will cut the capital gains tax. And we will cut business taxes to help create jobs, and keep American business in America.
At the same time, I'm going to make government finally live on a budget, just like you do, and I am going to enforce that discipline by the power of veto.
My fellow Americans, we're going to get through this present economic crisis. And we will even come out stronger -- without the corruption and arrogance that have overtaken both Washington and Wall Street. We're going to pull through these hard times -- and do it together, just as our country has done before.
And when that day arrives, we will find awaiting our country all of the same great challenges and dangers that were there all along. At a time when the jobs and financial security of our people seem at risk, it is hard to spare much thought even for the great and abiding concerns of this nation's security, and the security of our friends and allies across the world. But these dangers have not gone away while we turned our attention elsewhere. And the next president will meet no greater test than defending America from these threats.
Victory must still be secured, in Iraq and Afghanistan. Senator Obama opposed removing the dictator in Iraq, and now obstinately opposes the need to defend the young democracy in that country -- even with victory so clearly in sight. He cites as his most courageous moment in public life a speech he gave in 2002 -- against a war resolution on which he had no vote, on a matter of national security for which he bore no responsibility. He hopes you will forget the votes he cast when he actually did have responsibility, his votes to prevent the strategy that is leading to victory, and to deny funding for the troops who are gaining that victory. And now he hopes that in the cloud of crisis at home you will forget the stakes in Iraq -- the disaster and tragedy that would follow if American forces leave in retreat.
With terrorists still plotting new strikes across the world, millions of innocent lives are still at stake, including American lives. Our enemies' violent ambitions must still be prevented -- by American vigilance, by diplomacy and cooperation with our partners, and by force of arms as a last resort. In his four years in the Senate, two of them spent running for president, Barack Obama has displayed some impressive qualities. But the question is whether this is a man who has what it takes to protect America from Osama bin Laden, al Qaeda, the prospect of a nuclear-armed Iran, and other grave threats in the world. And he has given you no reason to answer in the affirmative.
At the same time, Democrats in Congress have already proposed to cut defense spending by 25 percent. Even with our troops engaged in two wars, and with a force in need of rebuilding, we're getting a glimpse of what one-party rule would look like under Obama, Pelosi, and Reid.
Apparently it starts with lowering our defenses and raising our taxes.
At least when European nations chose the path of higher taxes and cutting defense, they knew that their security would be guaranteed by America. But if America takes the same path, who will guarantee our security?
We have passed through a difficult time, and more courage will be needed in the years ahead. But there is a direction to events, and the sacrifices of the present have not been in vain.
We will build on our hard-won victories to extend the security of our nation and of every nation that seeks to live in freedom. We will not yield to intimidation, and by our strength we will prevent threats from turning into tragedies. This is America's work in the world, as it always has been in our finest moments. We are called still to spread liberty, to assure justice, to be the makers of peace. And this is the great work I will carry on as your president and commander in chief.
To do all of this, my fellow Americans, I need your help. I need your confidence. And I am asking for your vote.
Thank you for listening
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