Barack Obama

[Laurel Scott]

I'm still unsettled on the whole thing about the forum taking advertising, etc. But I understand the forum is seriously looking into the non-profit option and the Democratic Primaries can't wait.

We should be supporting Obama because:
1. He has the polical courage to make an unpopular decision for the good of the country. We need a candidate with this kind of courage because any decision on immigration reform requires it. A majority of the country does not want relief for immigration, but a majority of the country does not want mass deportations. The country does not know what it wants. Therefore, any decision will be unpopular. This is why Congress has dithered. Congress does not have the political courage to make an unpopular decision.
2. He inspires and unites. In order for a pro-immigrant President to convince Congress to accept an unpopular proposal, he must inspire them and the country to come together and pass legislation that needs to be passed.

I think McCain has political courage, but I do not think he can inspire and unite well enough to get reform passed. I don't think Clinton has political courage nor do I think she inspires and unites.

These qualities Obama has are not only what we need for immigration reform, they are what we need for a rainbow of issues the country is facing. Not only is Obama the best candidate in this election, he is the best candidate we have had in a long, long time.

Learn about his views on Immigration:
http://www.barackobama.com/issues/immigration/

Get involved:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/actioncenter/

Obama is mysteriously behind Clinton in the Latino community. The news media, as befuddled by this as me, has come to the conclusion that the Latino community (which is a diverse group of people) prefer the familiar (Clinton) to the unfamiliar (Obama) and remember the better days of the Clinton era. They don't really understand that Obama's stances are better. Go educate them.

[IBMMuseum]

Agree with you 100%...

[monki12]

thanks

[sinfronteras]

Hi Laurel.

Even thou I share your same political views & believes. I think this is not the right place to request donations for a political campaing. We can express about who we like & dislike. But "asking for money". Just imagine how many members we are, with different opinions. And if they allow this then all of them will request donations for their candidates. Or for other causes.

This is an immigration forum. And This will totally change it to a "political fundraising forum".

Why do not put it on your own webpage. With all the people that visit your page daily I am pretty sure you will reach your goal.

Good luck!!!

[Marie]

I removed the link for the donations.

[LilB]

Hi Laurel.

Even thou I share your same political views & believes. I think this is not the right place to request donations for a political campaing. We can express about who we like & dislike. But "asking for money". Just imagine how many members we are, with different opinions. And if they allow this then all of them will request donations for their candidates. Or for other causes.

This is an immigration forum. And This will totally change it to a "political fundraising forum".

Why do not put it on your own webpage. With all the people that visit your page daily I am pretty sure you will reach your goal.

Good luck!!!

This was posted in the advocacy thread. Isn't this advocacy?

[DeBenny]

Guess what?! Obama is coming to my town on Wed for a town hall meeting. I just ordered my tickets. :bounce:. I could believe the announcement. I thought that someone was playing a dirty joke on me, but it is really true. I am soo excited!!! :bounce:

[LilB]

Oooooooooooo.......take pictures! How neat!

[Marie]

This was posted in the advocacy thread. Isn't this advocacy?

That's not the problem. We have a rule that any advocacy group has to contact us before posting info. I guess I'll have to spell out that rule too. You can't ask for donations for another website/cause on this site. This includes posting donation links in signatures. It saves a lot of headaches.

[Laurel Scott]

Ok, ok, ok. When my thread was deleted, I wondered why and thought maybe I'd better go back and review the rules. You're right. I violated a rule. I remember the events that lead to the creation of the rule.

[Marie]

It's ok Laurel. It doesn't normally take me that long. I was too swamped to get back with you. Normally I send a pm or something but school is a .... this week. I was up all night studying and desperately trying to understand this crap.

The advocacy part though is fine. Just like any of them, I hope he'll stick to what he says.

[LilB]

That's not the problem. We have a rule that any advocacy group has to contact us before posting info. I guess I'll have to spell out that rule too. You can't ask for donations for another website/cause on this site. This includes posting donation links in signatures. It saves a lot of headaches.

You don't have to spell out anything. :innocent: I didn't even see a donation link when I saw this thread. :rolleyes: I'm just saying that it's not "just" an immigration website. We talk about all sorts of subjects.

Sorry.

[Marie]

Sorry I'm a little on edge here today.

It was there but I removed it :)

I'm going to bed now. I shouldn't run on 2 hours of sleep.

[milliesmom]

I am sure that this is a very unpopular thing that I'm going to say. I really am behind Obama. I think it would be so wonderful if we finally elected a people's President, someone who unites the entire nation.

But... is America (racist, conservative America) ready for a Black President. Let's not forget that it was only 45 years ago Kennedy (a liberal leader) was assassinated. And Martin Luther King Jr? Has there been a predominantly Black leader since then? Obama is precious. I'm afraid that he is being pushed into the forefront to be able to get rid of him.
It would be such a step backward in American history. Have we come far enough to elect this minority President?
I mean, when I look at certain states passing laws making it a felony to transport anyone illegally in the country, I really find it hard to believe that America is ready.

[Pooh79]

I am on the Obama bandwagon for sure!!!!

[Adriane]

I think McCain is a good person & a noble man. I think Clinton has an amazing heart and is a truly wonderful person.

But I think our country needs the unity that I think Obama can bring. He has my vote, 100%.

[losguerra]

But... is America (racist, conservative America) ready for a Black President. Let's not forget that it was only 45 years ago Kennedy (a liberal leader) was assassinated. And Martin Luther King Jr? Has there been a predominantly Black leader since then? Obama is precious. I'm afraid that he is being pushed into the forefront to be able to get rid of him.

I think we'll find out sooner or later weather the US is ready...

I for one think it's a shame Obama hasn't advertised as heavily as Clinton to the Latino community. Just yesterday my husband and I were Skyping with some of his family in the US (they are citizens) and they are so strongly for Clinton. I asked why? "Because the other Clinton was a pretty good guy."

Hopefully Obama gets his name out there better in time to get a good finish out of the primaries.

On a related note, my cousin has been heavily involved in the Obama campaign since last year (there you go, a 19 year-old breaking the stereotype for her generation). This past weekend she was volunteering at a democratic fundraiser in Virginia where Obama and Clinton were speaking, and she even got to speak with and take photos with Obama! I'm so jealoooooous!

[Dorothea]

Guess what?! Obama is coming to my town on Wed for a town hall meeting. I just ordered my tickets. :bounce:. I could believe the announcement. I thought that someone was playing a dirty joke on me, but it is really true. I am soo excited!!! :bounce:

DeBenny, that's so cool! Ask him some tough questions for us!!

[Dorothea]

Laurel, I think you're right about the Latino community.
In my experience Latinos are VERY slow to accept change. They don't like things and ideas that are too radical...
We just have to help the Latino community (and all those cranky old whities!) see why Obama would be a positive change for everyone!

[losguerra]

Has anyone ever done any phone banking for a candidate? I'm willing to place some international phone calls just to help convince Hispanic voters to go Obama, but I'm not sure what it involves...

[LilB]

Go to his website and there's a link that says: "make calls"

That would be awesome.

[milliesmom]

You know what's interesting about Latinos? Remember last year when Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrés_Manuel_López_Obrador) was almost elected as the Mexican President? He is a total liberal, almost Socialist. My husband's family were supporters. My husband is an Obama fan as well. The major sticking point for him is also the difference between Clinton & Obama on immigration. Clinton wants to secure the borders before moving on any immigration reform. Obama promises to legalize those that are here and working, etc.

Anyway, I think a lot of Latinos are willing to accept change. The difference might be that maybe newly arrived Latinos, who aren't allowed to vote yet, may support Obama and change. :thumbup:

[Pooh79]

I mentioned the ignorance of some latinos here in Arizona on another thread before. Even my brother, who although is Cuban-American like me, was going to vote for Hilary. I was like why? He couldn't really say other than "Bill Clinton was a good President". I was like you can't vote for those reasons geesh. I explained to him the differences I even went online and had him watch some debates etc. He changed his mined. Agree that Obama needs to pay a little more attention on his advertising to the Latino community.

[IBMMuseum]

A humorous line in "Obama looks for momentum in Va., Md., DC" (http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080212/ap_on_el_pr/campaign_rdp):

"...Coming off weekend victories in five contests, Obama was favored to win the primaries in Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia thanks to a blend of black and better educated voters in those areas, blocs that have aided his wins in earlier matchups against Clinton..."

Obama/Richardson! Obama/Richardson! Obama/Richardson!

[~MP~]

Thank you so much for posting this...I agree 100% I need to go out and get the word out to all my hispanic friends that can vote. I do think his name frightens him for some reason...

[Laurel Scott]

But... is America (racist, conservative America) ready for a Black President.

I wondered that myself until he won in Iowa ... IOWA!!! And then he won in Maine and Nebraska! Yes, the country is ready for either a woman President or a President who is not 100% white. I think a whole lotta people are basing their decisions primarily on the candidate and not the candidate's ethnicity or gender. Its wonderful.

[monki12]

just my experience...
In my family, days before an election we sit down and talk about the candidates, propositions etc. This time around, it was so hard for me to convince my two naturalized citizen parents to both for obama. I couldnt understand. My sister, her husband, we all tried to get them to really understand what hilary is about. One of their major arguments is that bill clinton has experience...i was tired of screaming he is running! I have until the election to persuade them. I think everyone is right, obama needs more advertising in the latino community. Im doing my part. Most of the naturalized citizens that i know are voting for clinton and i have to sit there and explain what each candidate is really about. I hate that people often vote based on a name without looking at the facts.:shy:

[Laurel Scott]

I'm with you Monk. I thought Bill Clinton was a good president. But Bill is not Hillary. And I think Obama will be better than Bill was. Also, this is not the same political climate as it was when Bill was Pres. Now we're post-9-11. Some positive immigration bills were passed during the Clinton administration, but part of the reason they got passed was because there was not the air of xenophobia that there is now. It would take more than Bill to get positive immigration legislation passed in this political climate. It will take Barrack.

[LilB]

I'm with you Monk. I thought Bill Clinton was a good president. But Bill is not Hillary. And I think Obama will be better than Bill was. Also, this is not the same political climate as it was when Bill was Pres. Now we're post-9-11. Some positive immigration bills were passed during the Clinton administration, but part of the reason they got passed was because there was not the air of xenophobia that there is now. It would take more than Bill to get positive immigration legislation passed in this political climate. It will take Barrack.

Hillary does not measure up for positive immigration bills anyway, if any. Barrack will lead the way. Especially since it IS post 9-11.

[christytorres]

Hilary will be in south texas today..I think..but she is coming...I am undecided as of now.. and my son will be able to vote and he is excited...

[sinfronteras]

Is not just a big hispanic community in the US, is how diverse our community is. All of us speak Spanish, but there are different meanings for the same word words . There are immigrants from more than 10 Hispanicamerican countries in the US with differents opinions,different cultures, different foods, differents points of views, different lifestyles, different interest & needs.

My husband is an illegal mexican, & obviously the immigration issues take an important place for me @ the time I vote. I have been checking all the websites for all the candidates... and there is some offering from Obama that caugth my attention:

"Bring People Out of the Shadows

Obama supports a system that allows undocumented immigrants who are in good standing to pay a fine, learn English, and go to the back of the line for the opportunity to become citizens."

That sound beautiful, but you need to analize it.

"undocumented immigrants who are in good standing "

This is kind of tricky

is like the guarrantee & warrantee thing.

Are all unndocumented immigrants illegals??? Unndocumented means the same as Illegal?

But let's say that unndocumented means illegal for him...

How can an illegal be on a good standing...

When you are illegal, you are out or against the law...

There is no way you can be on a good standing if you are illegal...

I believe that if his campaing was more specific, to the point, he will be more popular among hispanics voters in the US.

It is so funny because before I met my husband I did not care anything about the Imigration Reform. But, I got to admit, I had change, my points of views are not the same that I had couple years ago when I was a single fashion designer living la vida loca in NYC. Now I am happily married & my husbands interest are mines as well.

Now, something that I had always take in consideration when voting is my country.
Yes, I am looking for the candidate that offer options to take Puerto Rico out of the status Limbo that we are.

But Not all the Puertoricans think
the same. And i understad that. Could be that there is are Puertorrican who is really proud as me of being boricua,but was raised/born in the US & eat arroz, habichuelas & tostones everyday. But he(she) does not care at all about the political status of Puerto Rico.

And the same happens with Mexicans & other countries

And I believe the immigrant voters of differents parts of America & the world will take in consideration what the candidates will offer to improve whatever concers to them.

[nsoto]

To the comment about convincing any one to vote for a specific canidate. Everyone is different and not everyone sees eye to eye, hence the Democratic,Republican, and Independant parties..There is always going to be differences in opinions and so on. That's why I love this Country!

I don't like Obama..But I really don't like anyone running for President. So we'll see...

[monki12]

I didnt mean convince as much as educate. I would like everyone to make a educated decision, not just based on a name or commercial. Your right nsoto, that is the beauty of this country. Thats what its like that in my household, we are split down the middle, but im proud to say that we do take the time to educate ourselves and i try my best to help my parents not fall into the traps of media, or smear campaigns....Ultimately its everyone's right to vote. Everyone's right to choose whom ever they want. My goal is to educate as many people I know so that when they finally make a decision, it is one based on facts and not propaganda.

[sinfronteras]

I didnt mean convince as much as educate. I would like everyone to make a educated decision, not just based on a name or commercial. Your right nsoto, that is the beauty of this country. Thats what its like that in my household, we are split down the middle, but im proud to say that we do take the time to educate ourselves and i try my best to help my parents not fall into the traps of media, or smear campaigns....Ultimately its everyone's right to vote. Everyone's right to choose whom ever they want. My goal is to educate as many people I know so that when they finally make a decision, it is one based on facts and not propaganda.

Show me the facts...

[monki12]

it depends on what issues are pushing you toward a certain candidate. Immigration is a huge issue for me, but it certainly isnt the most important. When chosing a candidate i looked at the war, their past views of the war, their voting history. I also looked at the environmental issues, what each candidate is promising as far as change. I looked up their stance on global warming and if they had done anything to bring about change. As for immigration, Obama has a better policy for me. Not only does he intend to find a path for legalization to many "undocumented immigrants in good standing" but he supports driver's license to illegals, something clinton has been "flip floppy" about. Clinton has a similar plan, she too promises a path to legalization for undocumented who pay taxes, have no legal issues and are of good moral characther (this an undocumented immigrant in good standing). In the beginning, clinton has supported licenses to illegals and has now changed her views. From my experience, the latinos that i have spoken to dont realize this. This is what i mean by educating them. They hear that she is supported by Gil Cedillo, the person who has fought so hard to give licenses to illegals here in california and assume that since he supports her, she believes the same way. As for the war, I believe obama has made his position clear. I know that the war can not end in one day, unfortunately we are in it for the long run. But at least he was against it in the beginning and is willing to end it while still fighting terrorism. The war is a tough subject, we know that we can not simply pull out our troops, there is still stuff that needs to get done and it is not a thing that will end over night. Sin fronteras, you are lucky that you have access to information (im not saying the internet is always trustworthy) and you can educate yourself to know what candidate fits you and your beliefs. Unfortunately, there are many citizens, latinos, who dont have the time or resources to know what each candidate is about. They think that because a candidate is endorsed by certain people or because they here a commercial on a certain radio station that, that candidate is the better candidate. My goal is to help these people educate themselves over politics and the candidates. ultimately it will be their choice, But i will be happy knowing that I brought about knowledge. I dont sit there and tell them who to vote for. It is their right, their voice and their choice to make. It is the fundemantal basis of being an america, your right to your opinion, your right to voice your opinion and your right to bring about change.

[Laurel Scott]

I believe that if his campaing was more specific, to the point, he will be more popular among hispanics voters in the US.

I used to think it was better for the politicians to be more specific about what laws they were going to propose or what they were going to do. But then I think you have to bear in mind the three branches of government. The President cannot change the Immigration and Nationality Act. What's most important to me - in regard to immigration reform - is the President's attitude toward immigration reform and whether he can convince others to change their attitude as well. If he can lead the public to have a paradigm shift (buzz words from the 90's) in how immigrants are viewed, it will make room for more specific reform plans. I've been saying for some time that we have to change attitudes in the media and the public before we can expect changes in the law. Obama's general support is a giant first step.

[Laurel Scott]

Hilary will be in south texas today..I think..but she is coming...I am undecided as of now.. and my son will be able to vote and he is excited...

I, too, used to be undecided. But the more I got to know Obama ...

I encourage you to get to know him, too: www.barrackobama.com

[Laurel Scott]

Oh, its one darn 'r', not two:

www.barackobama.com

[Laurel Scott]

I can't spell Hillery either.

[monki12]

:bounce: so funny Laurel.....

[sinfronteras]

it depends on what issues are pushing you toward a certain candidate. Immigration is a huge issue for me, but it certainly isnt the most important. When chosing a candidate i looked at the war, their past views of the war, their voting history. I also looked at the environmental issues, what each candidate is promising as far as change. I looked up their stance on global warming and if they had done anything to bring about change. As for immigration, Obama has a better policy for me. Not only does he intend to find a path for legalization to many "undocumented immigrants in good standing" but he supports driver's license to illegals, something clinton has been "flip floppy" about. Clinton has a similar plan, she too promises a path to legalization for undocumented who pay taxes, have no legal issues and are of good moral characther (this an undocumented immigrant in good standing). In the beginning, clinton has supported licenses to illegals and has now changed her views. From my experience, the latinos that i have spoken to dont realize this. This is what i mean by educating them. They hear that she is supported by Gil Cedillo, the person who has fought so hard to give licenses to illegals here in california and assume that since he supports her, she believes the same way. As for the war, I believe obama has made his position clear. I know that the war can not end in one day, unfortunately we are in it for the long run. But at least he was against it in the beginning and is willing to end it while still fighting terrorism. The war is a tough subject, we know that we can not simply pull out our troops, there is still stuff that needs to get done and it is not a thing that will end over night. Sin fronteras, you are lucky that you have access to information (im not saying the internet is always trustworthy) and you can educate yourself to know what candidate fits you and your beliefs. Unfortunately, there are many citizens, latinos, who dont have the time or resources to know what each candidate is about. They think that because a candidate is endorsed by certain people or because they here a commercial on a certain radio station that, that candidate is the better candidate. My goal is to help these people educate themselves over politics and the candidates. ultimately it will be their choice, But i will be happy knowing that I brought about knowledge. I dont sit there and tell them who to vote for. It is their right, their voice and their choice to make. It is the fundemantal basis of being an america, your right to your opinion, your right to voice your opinion and your right to bring about change.

They are basically offering the same. Now she is being more specific about what she will do to resolve the real issues. Yes, unffortunatly there are a lot of hispanics that are not informed, educated or worse than that not involve on the elections at all. There are a lot of them that do not even vote. Internet, newspapers, books,magazines, any source of information should be analize before you make a desicion. Is good to know that you are invole on motivate people to analize the information available before the make a choice..

[Pooh79]

I'm with you Monk. I thought Bill Clinton was a good president. But Bill is not Hillary. And I think Obama will be better than Bill was. Also, this is not the same political climate as it was when Bill was Pres. Now we're post-9-11. Some positive immigration bills were passed during the Clinton administration, but part of the reason they got passed was because there was not the air of xenophobia that there is now. It would take more than Bill to get positive immigration legislation passed in this political climate. It will take Barrack.

:ditto:

[Karloce]

My wife and her family are voting for Obama, I think he will prove himself as a great leader worldwide and will unite the country and things will get done as it use to be.

[Coventrated]

I do not get to vote this time. I was hoping it might happen, but not know.

I think you are all missing the point, its not who wins the primaries that matters, it is who gets the nomination.

My money is on Hilary

[sinfronteras]

I used to think it was better for the politicians to be more specific about what laws they were going to propose or what they were going to do. But then I think you have to bear in mind the three branches of government. The President cannot change the Immigration and Nationality Act. What's most important to me - in regard to immigration reform - is the President's attitude toward immigration reform and whether he can convince others to change their attitude as well. If he can lead the public to have a paradigm shift (buzz words from the 90's) in how immigrants are viewed, it will make room for more specific reform plans. I've been saying for some time that we have to change attitudes in the media and the public before we can expect changes in the law. Obama's general support is a giant first step.

Voters measure candidates attitude towards any issue & candidates persuasiassion ability thru what candidates say... This is a political campaing... You need to be spacific enough in order get people to suport you.
not give the run around...

[nsoto]

I do not get to vote this time. I was hoping it might happen, but not know.

I think you are all missing the point, its not who wins the primaries that matters, it is who gets the nomination.

My money is on Hilary

I agree..I think that Hillary will get the nomination...but well see...

[Pooh79]

I agree..I think that Hillary will get the nomination...but well see...

Geesh I hope not! :erm:

[sinfronteras]

And I believe we have 2 great candidates that has a lot to offer to this country...

[Laurel Scott]

I agree..I think that Hillary will get the nomination...but well see...


I think the people will be outraged if the nomination does not go to the winner of the popular vote. Disgruntled Democrats will stay home on the night of the general election, increasing the chances that the Republican candidate will win (actually, McCain ain't so bad, we're very lucky with the candidates this year!!). I think the superdelegates realize all this and will not necessarily vote against the popular vote.

[sinfronteras]

could happen the same is Obama is nominated...

[felixthecat]

McCain ain't so bad, we're very lucky with the candidates this year!!

I realize I don't know your politics at all...
but I'm suprised to hear you say that McCain ain't so bad.

He may want immigration reform, but I think he's the last one who would be able to do anything about it in the White House.
If McCain gets the presidency and wants a second term, he can't piss off republican anti-immigrant extremists.

Don't get me wrong, I think McCain's pretty good, for a politician, and I respect him (mostly), but he is gonna have to play along with conservatives for a while if they nominate him.

Also, from what I hear, he is anti- Roe v. Wade...
and that IS one issue that the next president WILL have a direct role in influencing...via supreme court nominees.

Just my opinion... to each his/her own :)

anyhow, I really think Obama WILL go all the way.
If he wins the primary (which I think he will), I don't see how he could lose the general election.
GO OBAMA!!!!:thumbup:

[Laurel Scott]

I realize I don't know your politics at all...
but I'm suprised to hear you say that McCain ain't so bad.

He may want immigration reform, but I think he's the last one who would be able to do anything about it in the White House.
If McCain gets the presidency and wants a second term, he can't piss off republican anti-immigrant extremists.

Is your memory so short?! McCain has been VERY good to the immigration clause. He and Kennedy together proposed the bipartison 2006 CIR proposal, which was 1000 times better than then 2007 CIR proposal. The 2006 proposal was actually pallatable. The proposal was called the McCain-Kennedy Bill. McCain has gone out on a limb and alienated many of his followers to push for immigration reform. He realizes that he can't get elected if he doesn't push for securing the borders, but even though he now focuses on that in his discussions of immigration reform, he has NOT shied away from supporting practical reform, as opposed to restriction. He maintains this position even in the face of what it costs him in support from his party.

Now. I am not endorsing McCain. While I point to his history of supporting the cause, I also point to his history of not being able to sell the cause to enough people. We not only need someone who supports immigration reform, we need someone who can change people's minds. That's why Obama is better form immigration reform than McCain. But when I say McCain ain't so bad, its because he still does, in fact, support reform. And that's a heck of a lot better than certain other restrictionist candidates who -Thank the Lord - have already dropped out of the race.

[Laurel Scott]

Very good to the immigration cause, not the immigration clause. Can we please, please, please have edit buttons back?

[losguerra]

Laurel, the edit button HAS returned, but only for like 5 minutes after you post.

I agree, McCain is definitely more stomach-able than any other Republican candidate. He is just stuck trying to fit the confines of his party...

[losguerra]

OMG you're right, the edit button IS gone again!!!

[DeBenny]

I agree, McCain is definitely more stomach-able than any other Republican candidate. He is just stuck trying to fit the confines of his party...

Yes. I totally agree.

[felixthecat]

Is your memory so short?! McCain has been VERY good to the immigration clause. He and Kennedy together proposed the bipartison 2006 CIR proposal

No...I haven't forgotten...CIR is one reason he has my respect.

But I'm a C-SPAN junky and I have watched him more recently backtracking on this issue.

"I got the message," McCain told voters in South Carolina. "We will secure the borders first."

I agree he wants CIR, but I just don't think he will address it anytime soon.

Here is a transcript from the debate on 1/30/08

HOOK: Senator McCain, let me just take the issue to you, because you obviously have been very involved in it. During this campaign, you, like your rivals, have been putting the first priority, heaviest emphasis on border security. But your original immigration proposal back in 2006 was much broader and included a pathway to citizenship for illegal immigrants who were already here.
What I'm wondering is -- and you seem to be downplaying that part. At this point, if your original proposal came to a vote on the Senate floor, would you vote for it?

MCCAIN: It won't. It won't. That's why we went through the debate...

HOOK: But if it did?

MCCAIN: No, it would not, because we know what the situation is today. The people want the border secured first. And so to say that that would come to the floor of the Senate -- it won't. We went through various amendments which prevented that ever -- that proposal.

But, look, we're all in agreement as to what we need to do. Everybody knows it. We can fight some more about it, about who wanted this or who wanted that. But the fact is, we all know the American people want the border secured first.

MCCAIN: We will secure the borders first when I am president of the United States. I know how to do that. I come from a border state, where we know about building walls, and vehicle barriers, and sensors, and all of the things necessary.

I will have the border state governors certify the borders are secured. And then we will move onto the other aspects of this issue, probably as importantly as tamper-proof biometric documents, which then, unless an employer hires someone with those documents, that employer will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. And that will cause a lot of people to leave voluntarily.

There's 2 million people who are here who have committed crimes. They have to be rounded up and deported.

And we're all basically in agreement there are humanitarian situations. It varies with how long they've been here, et cetera, et cetera.

We are all committed to carrying out the mandate of the American people, which is a national security issue, which is securing the borders. That was part of the original proposal, but the American people didn't trust or have confidence in us that we would do it.

So we now know we have to secure the borders first, and that is what needs to be done. That's what I'll do as president of the United States.

COOPER: So I just want to confirm that you would not vote for your bill as it originally was?

MCCAIN: My bill will not be voted on; it will not be voted on. I will sit and work with Democrats and Republicans and with all people. And we will have the principals securing the borders first.

And then, if you want me to go through the description all over again, I would be glad to. We will secure the borders first. That's the responsibility and the priority of the American people.

[Pinkpig]

Laurel,

I just heard from a mutual acquaintance, a big green guy. Thank you for your help.

Pinkpig

[Laurel Scott]

I don't think he's backtracking. I think he's realized that if he wants to be elected he has to say the words "secure the borders" over and over again and try not to say anything else when asked an immigration question. I don't believe his underlying beliefs and intents on immigration reform have changed.

[Laurel Scott]

I just heard from a mutual acquaintance, a big green guy. Thank you for your help.

?????????????
Do I know any big green guys?
?????????????

[felixthecat]

I think he's realized that if he wants to be elected he has to say the words "secure the borders" over and over again and try not to say anything else when asked an immigration question. I don't believe his underlying beliefs and intents on immigration reform have changed.

I agree.

Still, if he wants a 2nd term, he will have to stick with "secure the borders" for the next 4 years.

[Dorothea]

This may be beside the point, but isn't Hillary still ahead in the popular vote?
I did not watch the news tonight, so I'm not sure anymore, but as of yesterday she still held the lead by 450,000 votes. Not much, but the fact remains...
I did see that Obama won Virginia today...

[felixthecat]

This may be beside the point, but isn't Hillary still ahead in the popular vote?
I did not watch the news tonight, so I'm not sure anymore, but as of yesterday she still held the lead by 450,000 votes. Not much, but the fact remains...


I've been looking for the latest popular vote numbers all evening :shy:
(I'm such a geek!)

I think Obama's probably is ahead by now :thumbup:,
but I'm not sure.

[Dorothea]

WOW!!!!!!!!! Oh my gosh!!!
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/campaign_rdp

[Dorothea]

Sorry to keep posting seperate posts, but wow, I'm sos uprised! Hillary was expected to win these today (or atleast a portion!!!).
Well, not Barack is ahead in delegates!!! My head is spinning!

[IBMMuseum]

...we're very lucky with the candidates this year!!...

Yes, many of the candidates this time around had a link or perspective of immigration and life outside the United States:

Barack Obama having an immigrant father from Kenya...

Bill Richardson, son of a Mexican mother and U.S. citizen father, was born in the U.S., but lived the first 13 years of his life in Mexico...

John McCain was born in the Panama Canal Zone from his parents being there...

Hillary Clinton... Hillary Clinton... Hillary Clinton had a Hispanic campaign manager that is a daughter of Mexican immigrants, until she recently rotated out of the position...

[LilB]

Okay, the following comes from his speech in Virginia. I just want to give an example of how genuine and sincere this man is...we can connect to him so much better than with any other polititian from the past has ever been able to do. I'm talking about the average American...

"give it up for..."

He actually said that one time about the former governor of VA. :thumbup:

"I understand that some of the exitement doesn't have to do with me...when you go to the polls this November, the name George W. Bush won't be on the ballot and that makes everybody pretty churpy...the name of my cousin **** Cheney won't be on the ballot! [laughing] that...that was embarrassing... when that news came out. When they do those geneological surveys, you want to be related to somebody cool!"

Now this was hilarious! About him being related distantly to **** Cheney. :bounce:

"Senator Clinton was my friend before this race started, she will be my friend AFTER the race ends...we will be unified as democrat whoever may be the nominee..."

I think it's respectable that he said that about Hillary.

Go obama! I'm proud!!!!

[Dorothea]

Can I just say I think it's hilarious that you can't write **** Cheney. lol

[Coventrated]

I've been looking for the latest popular vote numbers all evening :shy:
(I'm such a geek!)

I think Obama's probably is ahead by now :thumbup:,
but I'm not sure.

It does not matter.

Look up Super Delegate.

[felixthecat]

It does not matter.

Look up Super Delegate.

I'm not trying to figure out who will win the primary...
I'm trying to figure out who has the best chance of winning the general election. I know.. I know... "look up the electoral college"
but I still think that the popular vote COUNTS (even if it doesn't reallly) if you know what I mean.

[Pinkpig]

http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/0208/Plouffe_She_cant_catch_us.html

February 13, 2008
Read More: Barack Obama

Plouffe: She can't catch us


As we wrote last night, Obama has begun to make his own inevitablity case, and David Plouffe made it explicit on a conference call this morning, telling reporters that it's now "next to impossible" for Clinton to surpass what he says is a 136-person lead among pledged delegates.

"The only way she could do it is by winning most of the rest of the contests by 25 to 30 points," he said. "Even the most creative math really does not get her, ever, back to even in terms of pledged delegates."

"This is not about votes -- it's about delegates," Plouffe said.

The other half of this case, of course, is that superdelegates will and/or should follow the pledged delegates

[Laurel Scott]

The other half of this case, of course, is that superdelegates will and/or should follow the pledged delegates

I thought I read something about there being like 400 superdelegates and less than half have said who they are voting for. So the other half remains uncommitted and may be waiting to see what happens with the popular vote. Let me see if I can find an article.

[Laurel Scott]

Ok, its under 800 superdelegates. I didn't count how many have said who they'll vote for and how many have not, but the uncommitted list looks longer:

Superdelegates who have not said who they'll vote for:
http://demconwatch.blogspot.com/2008/01/superdelegates-who-havent-endorsed.html

Superdelegates who have said who they'll vote for:
http://demconwatch.blogspot.com/2008/01/superdelegate-list.html

[Pinkpig]

http://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2008/02/why_hillary_will_lose.html

February 13, 2008
Why Hillary Will Lose
By **** Morris

Hillary Clinton has blown an almost sure shot at the Democratic presidential nomination. Having surrendered the lead to Obama, she is not likely ever to regain it. It is a fantasy that the Ohio and Texas primaries will be a "firewall" to contain the flames of enthusiasm for Obama and reverse her defeats of February. Just as with Giuliani's supposed Florida firewall, Hillary's will crumble as Obama's momentum carries him forward to the nomination.

Before Hillary lost her first primary or caucus, she lost the dialogue with the Obama campaign vis-à-vis the totally misguided decision to focus her message on experience, surrendering the ground of change to her opponent.

The more she tried to emphasize Obama's inexperience, the more she seemed to fence herself into the status quo. That it was the status quo ante of the Clinton years, not the status quo of the Bush administration, made less and less difference as the campaign progressed.

She ran on a message perfect for a Republican primary -- experience -- and abandoned the key to winning a Democratic primary -- the message of change -- to Obama.

Her decision to rely on special interest political action committee and lobbyist contributions and to seed her war chest with the checks of maxed-out donors gave substance to Obama's contrast of the status quo vs. change. With her chief strategist a lobbyist and her top campaign team all in the business, she was awash in associations that crippled her ability to fight for change.

Obama became the attraction in the race while Hillary recited her laundry list of proposals with a deadening monotony.

She could have waged a grassroots, small-donor, Internet campaign of change based on being the first woman running for president with a serious chance of victory. The charisma could have been hers, the excitement hers and the novelty hers. But by embracing experience and pretending to be safe and tested, she deadened the excitement her candidacy could have generated.

She got a reprieve by winning in New York/New Jersey and in California/ Arizona largely on the strength of Latino and immigrant voters. Their concentration in five key states (75 percent live in California, New York, Illinois, Florida and Texas) gave her a draw on Super Tuesday. But too many of her votes come from Hispanics who fear blacks and from older whites who harbor residual racial feelings. Her and Bill's heavy-handed attempts to polarize the election racially died on Super Tuesday in an avalanche of votes from white states like Utah, Idaho, Colorado, Kansas, North Dakota and the like.

As the election turned from Super Tuesday to the heartland, where there are few Hispanics or new immigrants, Hillary's campaign has lost its momentum and its prospects of victory. Obama's victories in Maine, Nebraska, Louisiana and Washington state, and now in Virginia, D.C. and Maryland, show how complete is his mastery of states without immigrants blinded by the Clinton name to sustain it. Hillary's hopes for victory in Wisconsin, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana and North Carolina are a fantasy. The Latino population in those states is well below 10 percent and not enough to carry her to victory.

The super-delegates will not be enough to reverse Obama's primary and caucus victories and they will run for cover and join the Obama bandwagon anyway.

Besides losing the rhetorical battle, Hillary will have nowhere near the money that Obama will have. Her preparations for a short war based on maxed-out donors and old politics were disastrously shortsighted, while Obama wisely cultivated online contributors who can regenerate with the click of a mouse.

When Barack Obama beat Al Gore to the punch and jumped into the presidential race while the former vice president was still deciding what to do, it seemed that Hillary had virtually wrapped up the nomination. While Gore could have beaten Mrs. Clinton, it seemed unlikely that a senator with two years' service under his belt could do so.

But the mistakes and strategic errors of the Clinton campaign gave Obama an opening that he exploited masterfully. It is Obama's charisma that is winning this election, but it was Clinton's mistakes that opened the door.

Morris, a former political adviser to Sen. Trent Lott (R-Miss.) and President Bill Clinton, is the author of “Outrage.” To get all of **** Morris’s and Eileen McGann’s columns for free by email, go to www.****morris.com.

[Laurel Scott]

I think its over 300 who have not endorsed. And of those who have endorsed, its only an 80 point spread. Just looking at Superdelegates.

[NicoleX08]

I am in Ohio, so that is one of the "big" states they are hoping for. The polls here are projecting a win for Hillary, as much as I would love a woman in power, I don't think she would be the right person. I am voting for Obama, and I am getting my office to vote for him as well!

[palinurus]

I don't know whom i'm going to support yet, but I think we all have short memories..

Tell Me.... has everyone forgotten the family oriented clinton amendement last year... someone willing to make unpopular decisions??

P

[angela256z]

I am going to vote for him. He seems like a nice guy and has great views on things and not just on immigration. He was here in Seattle about a week ago. That was Madness! It took 3 hours to drive a 15 minute route cause of all the people wanting to see him.

[llanderos11]

Maybe the asking of donations bent the rules but I think that it is really important for Laurel to give us her opinion about Obama. I am not very educated when it comes to politics but I really need to know that I am making a good decision when it comes to voting. Our main priority on this site is immigration and getting our loved ones into this country. Hence the necessity for good immigration reform. I for one thank you Laurel.

[Laurel Scott]

My paralegal Lizz says that the very first time she saw Obama talk, she went and got a picture of him and put it on the fridge and told her husband that it was a picture of her new boyfriend.

[Coventrated]

Hiliary has the machine, but a Clinton would certainly rally opposition support.

On balance I think it is a wash.

[JennyM]

Umm...you should read this!
http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/afp/us_vote_nobel_literature_britain_sweden_lessing

[LilB]

That story is just horrible. God is by his side and nothing is going to happen to him. I agree with one of the comments from someone on that site..."he will be the most heavily guarded president in history".

He's only 1/2 black.

[mamacita]

That story is just horrible. God is by his side and nothing is going to happen to him. I agree with one of the comments from someone on that site..."he will be the most heavily guarded president in history".

He's only 1/2 black.


I am with you Lynette, I hate reading trash like that! Let's get real this is 2008,come on people there are Black supreme court justices, jewish justices, so come on I don't really thing that has anything to do with it!

Yes, he or Hillary would be heavily guarded!

Mamacita:innocent::D

[sinfronteras]

Wow, JennyM, I really hope this do not happen. Would be horrible, he has a beautiful familly, kids, his wife.

You are Right Lynette... he is half black... The other day I was watching a TV show where they say political jokes...

And they said that Obama is like an Oreo

Cookie...

black outside & white inside :bounce:

[milliesmom]

I really pray that he is safe and sound and serves as our President for the next 8 years!

[Coventrated]

Never understood that - if being half black makes you black, why wouldn't being half white make you white.


And if GW survives, anybody can.

[sinfronteras]

Maybe the asking of donations bent the rules but I think that it is really important for Laurel to give us her opinion about Obama. I am not very educated when it comes to politics but I really need to know that I am making a good decision when it comes to voting. Our main priority on this site is immigration and getting our loved ones into this country. Hence the necessity for good immigration reform. I for one thank you Laurel.

I am agree with you, and I want to thanks not just Laurel, but all the ones on this forum for sharing their ideas & political view in such a respectfull way.

This is great because it help us to make our own desicion based on our own needs. So now that you feel more educated, analize all that info, compare & make your own desicion. Hey, do not let anyone decide for you. Your vote is exclusively your right & your responsability. What is a fact is that USA needs more self-consious voters.

[losguerra]

And they said that Obama is like an Oreo Cookie...
black outside & white inside

:( This is one of the oldest bigoted comments in existence. This kind of thinking has gotten us nowhere. That a person's skin color has to define their ethnicity and all their behavior is so shallow. What is Obama supposed to do? Be a Jesse Jackson duplicate? Then would people believe that he's black?

Never understood that - if being half black makes you black, why wouldn't being half white make you white.

True, exactly, although in the US, I think it's hard to maintain dual identities when one of them is a "minority" ethnicity or race. I've struggled with this most of my life. Obama identifies himself as African-American, which I think is because it would be very difficult to be accepted as "white".

Don't you see the unfairness here - you try to be true to both of your ethnicities, and the minority end calls you inauthentic ("oreo"), and the white end doesn't accept you either! Lovely society, the US.

And if GW survives, anybody can.

I AGREE! Obama may have enemies in the US, but I doubt any president in recent history has had as many GLOBAL enemies as Bush. If highly developed terrorist groups with entire governments behind them couldn't kill Bush, I doubt ignorant Americans will be able to pull it off.

[Laurel Scott]

Yes, Obama is in danger. So are all high profile politicians. It comes with the terrirory. I think there's truth to the notion that he is in greater danger because he's an ethnic minority (Mulatto) with a real shot at the White House. It only takes one crazy with a gun. But none of this is a reason not to vote for him.

[felixthecat]

Bhutto went back to Pakistan knowing full well she might get assasinated.
That didn't stop her from doing what she thought was best for her country.

Yeah...she got killed.
But she died doing what she thought was right.

I think Obama knows full well that he is risking his life for this historical first.

And I don't think he's doing it to BE the first black president....
rather because he knows he'd be good at it.

Which makes it worth the risk.
So who are we to judge that risk.

If a black person can't run for president out of fear...

If people will not vote for a black president out of fear...

then the racists win.

[emt103c]

Barrak and his wife were on Oprah and specifically, without saying it in so many words, inferred that the safety was one of the biggest considerations that he and she discussed.

I think it is sad that it is talked about mostly because of race. It's sad that it is realistic.

I'm just so proud that in Virginia, the state that held the capital of the Confederacy, something many people here are still proud of, Barrak Obama WON by a huge margin. It is amazing AND historic. I like to imagine the reaction that MLK Jr. would have had yesterday.

[LilB]

He knows what he's going against. He knows he runs a higher risk of assasination. He knew that before he made the decision to run, he knows it now, and he'll know it when (when! :)) he gets the democratic nomination and becomes president.

He has his angel. God is with him. And...I don't think anything will happen to him. But if it does, at least I'm am happy to say that he knew what he was up against...and he will have died with dignity. But, enough of the negative! Cuz that isn't even going to happen! He will serve 8 years. And it'll be the 8 best years the United States will have had in a very very very long time!

The secret service will be there 24/7 probably even standing next to him during all his speeches. Okay, maybe not standing next to him, but u know! LOL...:bounce:

Obama! Obama! Obama!

Mr. President. Mr. President. Mr. President Obama!

[sinfronteras]

:( This is one of the oldest bigoted comments in existence. This kind of thinking has gotten us nowhere. That a person's skin color has to define their ethnicity and all their behavior is so shallow. What is Obama supposed to do? Be a Jesse Jackson duplicate? Then would people believe that he's black?

Hey Losguerra sorry if you got offended. Was not my intention. Is just a political joke... that are really popular at this time....Like the pic's of Bill Clinton as a first lady, and other that are running everywhere.

[losguerra]

Hey Losguerra sorry if you got offended. Was not my intention. Is just a political joke... that are really popular at this time....Like the pic's of Bill Clinton as a first lady, and other that are running everywhere.
Oh, I'm not really offended, I just hope someday people don't have to think this way.

Maybe after Barack is president! :)

[sinfronteras]

Oh, I'm not really offended, I just hope someday people don't have to think this way.

Maybe after Barack is president! :)

This was just a joke & I am OK with that. Now, I am "multi-racial" & a woman too. And what really bothers me is when on "RealLife" people discriminate against others because their, sex, race, color, religion, sexual orientation or just the way they look, like being overweight or wearing glasses.. That really bothers me. You know is not fair. And I hope is not like that. But it is.

[DeBenny]

Hey guys I just got back from the "town hall" meeting that Barak had in my town.

There was a ton of secret service and media. I even got interviewed, ha! I enjoyed his "proposal" to our Nation. During the Q&A, he was asked about the "Obama-Edwards ticket". His answer left room to interpret it as a possibility of Edwards having some sort of involvement with him. Obama never shy away from any question - he answered everything re: immigration to NAFTA. I wish these events were more often. I cant wait for our primaries on the 19th. He was amazing.

But let me tell you this...I almost froze my face off for two hours waiting outside, but it was well worth it. The unfortunate event that took place was when a woman who was a couple people behind us had a seizure of some sort. There was a ton of people in attendance, they had such huge overflow. By the time we got inside the venue I could not feel my face.

The event was AMAZING!!!

[losguerra]

Lucky you, DeBenny!!!

[DeBenny]

Lucky you, DeBenny!!!

Thanks...I am re-reading my post and it is written so poorly. It must have been the two hours in the cold weather. :bounce:

[sinfronteras]

Obama’s Big-Government Vision

Please read

http://article.nationalreview.com/?q=MGYxYWM4NjkxMjUwMzBhZDAwNTg2NjZmYmU5MWU2ZmQ=

[felixthecat]

Sinfronteras- I skimmed it...
just seems to criticize Obama for wanting to spend tax dollars on us...which I don't mind.

I'd rather have that then GW pouring money into a war we can't win.

Anyhow, I think that the equation
good economy = good life
is not always true.

What good will the economy be if we don't do something about global warming?

I WANT to see our leaders invest in fixing the big problems we have as a nation.

[LilB]

Hey guys I just got back from the "town hall" meeting that Barak had in my town.

There was a ton of secret service and media. I even got interviewed, ha! I enjoyed his "proposal" to our Nation. During the Q&A, he was asked about the "Obama-Edwards ticket". His answer left room to interpret it as a possibility of Edwards having some sort of involvement with him. Obama never shy away from any question - he answered everything re: immigration to NAFTA. I wish these events were more often. I cant wait for our primaries on the 19th. He was amazing.

But let me tell you this...I almost froze my face off for two hours waiting outside, but it was well worth it. The unfortunate event that took place was when a woman who was a couple people behind us had a seizure of some sort. There was a ton of people in attendance, they had such huge overflow. By the time we got inside the venue I could not feel my face.

The event was AMAZING!!!

Did you take pictures, DeBenny?!?! What did you get asked during your interview?

Laurel gets to see Obama in person tomorrow. I'm so jealous of the both of you :bleh:!

And on a side note, I don't ever specifically bash Hillary. Bashing gets people nowhere. 'Nuff said.

[monki12]

Ditto felixthecat....
I wish we had more people concerned with global warming or our environment in general.

[LilB]

And one more thing, I meant to put this on my other post:

I mean this with all the respect in the world because all of u are better friends to me on this site than my actual friends are in person, but friends are friends and politics is politics. For all of you that are so PRO-HILLARY, focus on getting her name out and saying all the positive about her instead of focusing your time in bashing Obama. I don't know...start a thread about her, just as we started one on Obama. I'm focused on getting the word out on Obama. I'm focused on getting myths about him cleared up and his purpose known.

When I go canvassing, the moment I hear someone say their mind is set on Hillary, I stop right there and thank them for their time. My focus is on getting those that are still undecided to make an educated decision. That's the focus. Bashing gets people nowhere, just as I said earlier.

This is America. Let's stop being so negative and work out the politics in a mature way without the bashing.

p.s. I still luv u guys!!!!!

[losguerra]

And one more thing, I meant to put this on my other post:

I mean this with all the respect in the world because all of u are better friends to me on this site than my actual friends are in person, but friends are friends and politics is politics. For all of you that are so PRO-HILLARY, focus on getting her name out and saying all the positive about her instead of focusing your time in bashing Obama. I don't know...start a thread about her, just as we started one on Obama. I'm focused on getting the word out on Obama. I'm focused on getting myths about him cleared up and his purpose known.

When I go canvassing, the moment I hear someone say their mind is set on Hillary, I stop right there and thank them for their time. My focus is on getting those that are still undecided to make an educated decision. That's the focus. Bashing gets people nowhere, just as I said earlier.

This is America. Let's stop being so negative and work out the politics in a mature way without the bashing.

p.s. I still luv u guys!!!!!

Oh, Lynette, AMEN!!!! You said it.

[felixthecat]

lynette -
although I feel you on your last statement,
I do not feel that there has been any Barack bashing here.
People have voiced concerns about him....
and we (Obama supporters) should be willing to counter and convince.

Many of people's concerns about Obama seem to me to be misconceptions encouraged by the Clinton campaign, which I would like Clinton supporters to feel open about discussing...
so that we have an opportunity to tell them the truth ;)
(oops...I mean share our opinions :) )

ESPECIALLY IN POLITICS...
I find it sad when people are encouraged to only discuss with people who already agree with them. This is what keeps us divided.

[LilB]

I agree Felix, about the being able to to have a broad audience.

I'm just saying if someone is voting for someone else, especially when it comes to politics, then just leave it alone if it's obvious that the person is decided. I don't agree with "drilling" things into people's heads. We see it in the news all the time how violence sometimes starts just because of politics. Now, those that can be SWAYED, that's another story.

And about the bashing, I was mainly referring to links to articles and what not, that's all. Like I said earlier, it's just what I think. I'm not in it to offend anybody.

[felixthecat]

I'm just saying if someone is voting for someone else, especially when it comes to politics, then just leave it alone if it's obvious that the person is decided.

what about Clinton supporters that are for her mostly because they don't know much about Obama?

I think it is fair game to try to convince them :innocent:

I don't mean to attack you, lynette, I am just trying to explain why I think free political dialogue is important.

My mom was completely for Clinton until I made her watch Obama speak...
and then she started really liking him (though she still voted for Hillary :p because she likes Hillary better)

And just yesterday, I had a conversation with a friend who was supporting McCain...
she is now rethinking her choice because I told her that McCain wants to overturn Roe v Wade.
She had already decided...but confronted with new information, she changed her mind.
(I haven't swayed her over to Obama yet ;))

So I just want to defend sinfronteras right to put up anti-Obama links in an Obama thread...
because IF the issues that article raises would change my mind about Obama, then by all means, educate me.
(though that particular link made me all the more an Obama suporter)

Many people make up their mind about candidates based on too little information. I want to be informed.
(Even if my position is not easy to sway, because I already have informed myself.)

And while I know this is an Obama thread...
just in case anyone wants to know more about McCain's stance on abortion...
here you go.
(from http://thinkprogress.org/2006/11/19/mccain-abortion/)

In 1999, the “moderate” version of John McCain said that overturning Roe v. Wade would be dangerous for women and he would not support it, even in “the long term.” Here’s McCain in the San Francisco Chronicle:

I’d love to see a point where it is irrelevant, and could be repealed because abortion is no longer necessary. But certainly in the short term, or even the long term, I would not support repeal of Roe v. Wade, which would then force X number of women in America to [undergo] illegal and dangerous operations.

This morning on ABC, McCain — now aggressively courting the likes of Jerry Falwell — expressed his unequivocal support for overturning Roe v. Wade.

Transcript:

STEPHANOPOULOS: Let me ask one question about abortion. Then I want to turn to Iraq. You’re for a constitutional amendment banning abortion, with some exceptions for life and rape and incest.

MCCAIN: Rape, incest and the life of the mother. Yes.

STEPHANOPOULOS: So is President Bush, yet that hasn’t advanced in the six years he’s been in office. What are you going to do to advance a constitutional amendment that President Bush hasn’t done?

MCCAIN: I don’t think a constitutional amendment is probably going to take place, but I do believe that it’s very likely or possible that the Supreme Court should — could overturn Roe v. Wade, which would then return these decisions to the states, which I support.

STEPHANOPOULOS: And you’d be for that?

MCCAIN: Yes, because I’m a federalist. Just as I believe that the issue of gay marriage should be decided by the states, so do I believe that we would be better off by having Roe v. Wade return to the states. And I don’t believe the Supreme Court should be legislating in the way that they did on Roe v. Wade.

[LilB]

what about Clinton supporters that are for her mostly because they don't know much about Obama?


Maybe I'm not wording it right, but that's exactly what I'm trying to say. Educate people about Obama. Those who have already made their decision (and even considered Obama) I leave alone. I don't push it. It's okay to push if they're still SWAYABLE...if that's even a word.

[sinfronteras]

Hey people I am not a fan of noone...

I do not believe in being a fan. I had no post anything about Hillary, go to political campains, call people, ask for money, get mad or offended when someone has a different point of view than mine.. because I am not a fan.

I like to express my opinion & listen to other people's point of view. This is the way I learn, grow & make my own desicions.

Politics are not about I will vote for this person because is nice, cute, talks to me, others follow that person, or I identify with this person because is my race, gender, age or from my neighborhood or country. Is not about that. Is about analizing what is better for us.

I am a woman who has her own mind & is able to analize what is wrong & what is right... I was in the BO bandwagon... but I heard this speech from him the other day & felt something was wrong & started to find out. One thing is investing, another is spending what you do not have.
For me this guy has no clue about what is a succesfull economy strategy. And this is my opinion & I do understand yours could be different. And I respect that & have no issue with you exppressing it.

And Lynnette... if you are going to make a poll is because there are different choices or opinions. That is the reason why you make the poll. To research ...So obviously expect everyone to express themselves freely.

And I am agree about the media, they use what sells... Like right now... they had not talk about this in the news... I just saw on TV only 2 economist talking about this " clueless plan" for less that 2 minute, but other stupid details that are pointless (like this was crying, this one copy this) they give too much importance. Why, because sells.

[LilB]

And Lynette... if you are going to make a poll is because there are different choices or opinions. That is the reason why you make the poll. To research ...So obviously expect everyone to express themselves freely.

Obviously. No reason to be fiesty. A good example of what politics does to people. Express yourself freely. More power to you. ;)

P.s. I still luv u even when ur upset :)

[sinfronteras]

Hey girl I am non upset... But please do me a favor.. What fiesty mean?? Sorry my english is kind of basic.

[pen1137]

read this article from the guy who wrote the obama big-govt article...

i think his reality is a bit distorted.

http://article.nationalreview.com/?q=OTVjOGRlOGI0ZWYxMmU3ZmU4Y2JiMGVhZTFhOWZjZDQ=

[pen1137]

oh, sinfronteras, "fiesty" means spirited! always a good thing! :)

[LilB]

oh, sinfronteras, "fiesty" means spirited! always a good thing! :)

:ditto: good response! :thumbup:

[sinfronteras]

read this article from the guy who wrote the obama big-govt article...

i think his reality is a bit distorted.

http://article.nationalreview.com/?q=OTVjOGRlOGI0ZWYxMmU3ZmU4Y2JiMGVhZTFhOWZjZDQ=

Thanks for the translattion...

I read this articule before posting the other one. I watched this BO speech before reading the articule that I previously post. The speech by itself made me change my opinion. What BO said in the speech is not a solution to the economic problem that we have. He has some good ideas, like HC has. But he has not effective plan. like HC does. This guy is just one of the writters that commented about it.( There are others that talked about it, but not that many)

[Emily]

Umm...you should read this!
http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/afp/us_vote_nobel_literature_britain_sweden_lessing

I have to agree with this article to some degree. I think some will try to assinate him but hopefuly he will be heavly guarded so that can't happen. I've been thinking about this for a while, even before reading this article because he has a double edged sword with this one. He's black, and there are those racist extremist that don't want him in office, or any non white person. There is also the fact he's in the running to help the American people, and some can't take that.

He's a wonderful person inside and out. Any person paying attention to his speeches can see that. Hopefuly he will be smart enough to know being in office will come with a price; a heavy one!

[felixthecat]

just found this...

Ted Kennedy Pushes Immigration Reform and Obama

The El Piolín radio show, the most popular Spanish-language radio show in America (strike that - see the update below - it is the most popular radio show in any language nationwide), with millions of listeners in California and nationwide, gave a BIG buildup for Teddy at 7:40 a.m. California time with a three minute pre-produced bio calling him "the best senator in America" highlighting Kennedy family history and his leadership on education, health care and immigration reform. Here are my notes:

- Teddy comes on, jokes that after hearing that he wants to come on the show every day after hearing the intro. Says he's challenging Arnold Schwarzenneger (a McCain supporter and Kennedy in-law) to an arm wrestling contest to decide which - Obama or McCain - will be president, and he wants show host Eddie Sotelo to be the judge. Sotelo agrees.

- Kennedy talks about the fight for immigration reform he waged "and at my side from the beginning was Barack Obama."

- "Obama's the one that can unite America to make this and other changes happen. He unites old and young, East and West, to bring change."

- Sotelo translates his words.

- Kennedy: "Only two senators marched for immigrant rights on May 1, 2006, one in Washington and the other in Chicago. I marched in Washington and Barack Obama marched in Chicago. He was not afraid to stand up when others wouldn't."

- Obama has led in health care for children, in education and jobs.

- "Obama will lead the change and I will be there at his side."

- "70,000 Hispanics have served in Iraq and Afghanistan. More than 11 percent of all the casualties in this war have been Hispanic. The Hispanic youth are patriotic and have served this country."

- "I'm committed to coming back on the immigration bill and Barack Obama will be with me. He is the one candidate who has said that he can do this in his first term. There's too many people that are living in the shadows. Men and women of dignity who love their families who love their faith. I'm on their side and Barack Obama is on their side."

- Sotelo continues translating for his listeners.

- Kennedy pushes his event for Obama with US Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-California) at East Los Angeles Community College, 9:30 a.m. tomorrow. Makes a "personal invitation" to the listeners to attend.

- "I'll do my best to be there after my show," says Sotelo.

- Kennedy stresses again that we need Obama to make the changes we want.

- Sotelo begins a series of gag questions (it's a comedy show) for Kennedy, saying, "Senator, please finish each sentence..."

- "My most embarrassing experience is...?" Kennedy: "Singing 'Jalisco' on your radio show. I didn't sing it with all the technique it deserves. I've been practicing. Then he sings a few bars."

- "My biggest regret is...?" Kennedy: "I haven't had enough time on the El Piolin radio show." Says he wants to be a co-host "to improve the ratings."

- "I have a question for you, Eddie: Will it be the Piolin-Kennedy show or the Kennedy-Piolin show?"

- Sotelo: "Kennedy-Piolin because we really respect you and you're the greatest senator."

- "Building a wall across the border is a...?" Kennedy: "I have been against the wall. It makes no sense. For every wall you have that's 40 feet someone will have a ladder that's 41 feet and someone will have a tunnel beneath it."

- Sotelo and a woman that co-hosts translate again.

- "Hispanics who have the opportunity to vote and don't, they are...?" Kennedy: "They are not looking after the interest of their children and their families because by voting they can make a difference for the wellbeing of their children and their families."

- "We now have a backlog of Hispanics that want to be able to vote. The fee for naturalization has gone from $350 to $800. And if you want to become a citizen the administration now makes you wait a year and a half. That's absolutely outrageous and intolerable. And Barack Obama is working on that with me, too"

[felixthecat]

and this...

The Illinois senator is differentiating himself in three key areas: driver's licenses, a promise to take up immigration reform his first year in office, and his background as the son of an immigrant (his father was Kenyan) and a community organizer in Chicago.

Obama made the promise to Latino leaders to take up immigration reform in his first year after Rep. Rahm Emanuel, D-Ill., chairman of the Democratic caucus, said his party might not raise the divisive issue again until the next president's second term, assuming a Democrat wins.

Clinton has not made such a promise, saying only that she would make her best efforts.

John Trasviña, president of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, said:
"Clinton and (Sen. John) Edwards have said no driver's licenses for unauthorized immigrants... Sen. Obama has said you get a driver's license if you know how to drive."

Political consultant James Carville, a Clinton supporter, has sent various memos to Democratic politicians urging them to avoid the issue of drivers licenses for undocumented immigrants, or oppose the concept altogether, citing polls that a majority of Americans do not favor them. Obama has bucked that counsel (and I think this is an example of what Obama meant when he spoke about the leadership qualities of former Republican President Ronald Reagan, who similarly took unpopular positions without backing down, and was popular in part for his lack of fear of what polls say).

The Latino electorate is diverse. In the Mid-Atlantic states, much of the population is of Caribbean descent, particularly Puerto Rican and Dominican. In South Florida, Cuban-Americans are the largest and most politically influential ethnic group (and those voters may surprise the conventional wisdom tomorrow in the non-binding Democratic beauty contest on the ballot there). In the West (and increasingly nationwide) Mexican-Americans are on the rise as a blockbusting political force. For that largest group, immigration reform is the dominant issue (of the thousands of questions that viewers sent to Univision for the Spanish-language station's Democratic presidential debate, 70 percent were about that topic).

[everybody]

watch video please and thank you

[Adriane]

And they said that Obama is like an Oreo

Cookie...

black outside & white inside

Ugh, my least favorite reference.

Actually, this reminds me of a line from Obama's speech to the Democratic Convention in 2004, when he really came to attention in the national spotlight.

From the speech:

"Go into the collar counties around Chicago, and people will tell you: They don't want their tax money wasted by a welfare agency or by the Pentagon. Go into any inner-city neighborhood, and folks will tell you that government alone can't teach kids to learn. They know that parents have to teach, that children can't achieve unless we raise their expectations and turn off the television sets and eradicate the slander that says a black youth with a book is acting white. They know those things."

Obama really makes me proud of my country again.

[Emily]

I know. Before the Election I was constantly telling my husband how I lost my faith in America. Now that Obama is here I really feel we have a chance to show the world what America is about.


Ugh, my least favorite reference.

Actually, this reminds me of a line from Obama's speech to the Democratic Convention in 2004, when he really came to attention in the national spotlight.

From the speech:

"Go into the collar counties around Chicago, and people will tell you: They don't want their tax money wasted by a welfare agency or by the Pentagon. Go into any inner-city neighborhood, and folks will tell you that government alone can't teach kids to learn. They know that parents have to teach, that children can't achieve unless we raise their expectations and turn off the television sets and eradicate the slander that says a black youth with a book is acting white. They know those things."

Obama really makes me proud of my country again.

[sinfronteras]

Felixthecat... I heard this particular program From Piolin por la manana with my husband when he was in here. And this is exactly what my husband told me.( At that time I did not know anything about him & wanted to give me tha opportunity to know him)

Why wait to be president to do something for illegals ? Why he did not give d/l to illegals in Chicago in his term as a senator? why there is no free or affordable health plans in Chicago for low income families?
Where was Mr. Obama when they started removing Puertoricans & Mexicans out of their houses in Humbolt Park because they wanted to make it a "white people neighborhood"? What had been doing Mr. BO to deal with the gangs situations here in Chicago? I am illegal, I live in Chicago... I know what is going on in here.

Emily... I do not doubt that he is a wonderful person inside and out. That is not the issue in here. the issue is being the most qualified for the position, & he is not. He is not good, but great with speeches... I do recognized that. Gotta be great because he is just talking & talking" with no sense" & peolpe follow him.( I am telling u , I was in the OBbandwagon) It is great to be inspirational... but when the inspirations are over what is left/ If the guy has no plans, no views... Probably you guys do not see it because a cultural thing... But, from where I am from & the rest of the Hispanicamerican countries it is really popular to have preacher/politics types like that, that make promises & promises, but never do anything that they promise. And this is one of the reasons why he is not that popular in the Hispanic Community because we are tired of politics like that. That the only hope that they inspire is that Hope u do not get sick or have an accident because there is no money for help insurance. That their speeches unify, but their actions separate us.

And do not get me wrong, I want to live here with my hubby. I love this country. And my main concern is immigrattion. But I do understand that the first issue for us right now should be the economy. Why ? Because peoiple immigrate here because the economical opportunitties that this country offers.But if the economy is going to be worst that now. People will stop migrating here.

I believe immigration should be one of the steps to improve the economy. As HC has expressed as part of her economic strategy.

[sinfronteras]

watch video please and thank you

Everybody... This is a copy of the video of the Vicente Fox political campaing.
Ask Mexicans how inspirational it was? Ask them about the results of having Fox as a president...

[sinfronteras]

Ugh, my least favorite reference.

Actually, this reminds me of a line from Obama's speech to the Democratic Convention in 2004, when he really came to attention in the national spotlight.

From the speech:

"Go into the collar counties around Chicago, and people will tell you: They don't want their tax money wasted by a welfare agency or by the Pentagon. Go into any inner-city neighborhood, and folks will tell you that government alone can't teach kids to learn. They know that parents have to teach, that children can't achieve unless we raise their expectations and turn off the television sets and eradicate the slander that says a black youth with a book is acting white. They know those things."

Obama really makes me proud of my country again.

Political joke... like the picture of BC dressing as the first Lady..
like the one MO said while campaining for her husband in Chicago about BC & Lewinsky scandal; This is what she said "If you cannot run your own house, how you are going to run the White House"

Let me make it clear I am a woman & multi-racial. The first too are political jokes.. that people make... That is fine with me..Ans I apoligize if i offended someone. I did not mean to.

But the 3rd. one, come on... You are a woman, a mother a wife of a guy that is running for president. by the way his message is "unify"...

How can we unify like this?...How can eradicate the slander that says a black youth with a book is acting white with this actions?

[Adriane]

Sin fronteras, I'm not upset that people are saying that about Obama specifically, I am upset that it gets said at all about anyone. And let me be clear, I'm not upset with you. But I don't think that it's a political joke, it's a racial one and that's different. I'd be equally upst about jokes about Hilary that attack her as a woman.

The reason people say that is because some people feel that he doesn't "act black." That's sort of the point of the speech he made back in 2004 that I quoted- that it's really very damaging to label people in that way.

I first heard that one said about a friend of mine in high school- it was ugly then and ugly now.

I think it's really very similar to how it feels and how it's damaging when people assume our Mexican husbands or wives are a certain way because they are Mexican.

My husband has a hard time understanding why I am so offended by racial stereotypes, but I really, really am and I think a lot of Americans are. The US is so different than almost all other countries in the world because we are a mix of so many different cultures, races, etc. That brings us a strength- but it also has it's share of 'growing pains.' I'm really proud of how far our country has come in such a short time, but we've still got a long way to go before we're color blind, gender blind, etc. But we all have to do our part by refusing to tolerate things that hinder our progress. IMHO.

[sinfronteras]

You are right it is a racial joke, And the one to BC is a sexual/gender joke. Like when they said Oh!!! U R crying like a girl.U know, something like that. What happened both of them where made during political times...And I was thinking it was because BO or is multi-racial, or because he will be in the power to help the rich not the poor. but not because he act like black or not.

About the one MO said about HC... I can imagine her as a first lady.
I want some change, but for good, not for bad.

And you are right, is about refusing to tolerate things that hinder our progress. Like MO acts.

[felixthecat]

You are right it is a racial joke, And the one to BC is a sexual/gender joke. Like when they said Oh!!! U R crying like a girl.U know, something like that. What happened both of them where made during political times...And I was thinking it was because BO or is multi-racial, or because he will be in the power to help the rich not the poor. but not because he act like black or not.

About the one MO said about HC... I can imagine her as a first lady.
I want some change, but for good, not for bad.

And you are right, is about refusing to tolerate things that hinder our progress. Like MO acts.

I think MO saying about HC keeping her house is a better joke than the oreo one...1st of all because that IS a joke, while the oreo statement is NOT.
Oreo is an offensive racial term. Not just a racial joke.

sinfronteras - I wonder if it because you have not heard how truly mean and ugly people are when calling someone an oreo...
it may sound funny but it is not. It has history.
It has been used to put down black people for acting white (while on the other hand they are put down for acting black!).
It has been used to offend for a long time.
The others are jokes. They do not have history.

They may sound the same if you are unfamiliar with the history, but it is nicer to be educated about the history so that you don't offend people, don't you think?

I was wondering if there is any latino equivalent?
I'm actually suprised there isn't, given that there are as many derogatory names for brown people as there are for blacks.
I could throw a few choice words around...but I don't want to offend.
Imagine a racial slur against your own people and that is what oreo is.

[LilB]

Texas and Ohio, don't forget to be involved in the process and VOTE, guys! Time's a tickin'.

[dan1el]

The only thing that concerns me about Obama is that he hasn't specifically talked about his agenda in the first year as a president regarding CIR, whereas Hillary has clearly stated she will bring up the Immigration issue in her first 100 days as a president.

But then what worries me about Hillary is that she tends to back track when under pressure like the NY driver's License for illegal immigrants last year when she changed her stance. That's why I don't feel that she would be effective and especially when the republicans cannot stand her at all and would do everything to make sure she doesn't succeed in passing any major bills.

Now I realise that a lot of republicans actually like and respect Obama so he has a good chance to get everyone on the same platform regarding this huge problem that needs to be solved.

Whether it takes a physical wall along the border or whatever that would shut up the conservatives except for the loony kind, something has to be done to pass the CIR.

And I feel Obama has a better chance than Hillary to do it but he has to be specific as to when he plans to bring up the CIR and what exactly would he do to make sure this bill finally passes.

Giving feel-good speeches can only go so far before you realise that people want clear answers and want you to be specific about your agenda regarding serious issues that are affecting this country everyday.

Atleast Mc Cain still stood up for CIR infront of all those rabid neo-cons at the meeting and while admitting that border security will be the first issue, he still hinted that he will not deport 12 million people and will make them legal citizens eventually.

Lastly, I'm glad that the majority of the american people have rejected the anti-immigrant people like Mitt Romney and went for a strong CIR supporter like Mc Cain because they're sick of the racist attitude of the neo-cons who are giving this country a bad name. Supporters of the CIR should be very encouraged with this fact.

[mandy]

You guys wasn't it during the Clinton years that the immigration laws were changed to the crap that it is now? I have always liked B Clinton but this has really got me worrying about Hillary.

Obama seems wonderful and I believe he CAN change public opinion which is very important with the immigration issue but I haven't seen where he has taken a REAL stand on immigration issues.

[dan1el]

You guys wasn't it during the Clinton years that the immigration laws were changed to the crap that it is now? I have always liked B Clinton but this has really got me worrying about Hillary.

Obama seems wonderful and I believe he CAN change public opinion which is very important with the immigration issue but I haven't seen where he has taken a REAL stand on immigration issues.

Very good point regarding the Clinton years because YES, the worst immigration law in recent history was passed during his tenure even if republicans were in power, still he could've atleast said something against this draconian law or threaten to veto it just to prove that he is against it. But I guess he was too busy chasing Monica back then to be really bothered with it.