August 2008 Archives

Inspiration is a funny thing; it can be the smallest mannerism, a gesture, a word or in larger sense, a shared experience. And when Barack Obama gave his historic acceptance speech at the Democratic convention thousands, if not, millions of people were positively inspired. Unfortunately, some in the media were inspired in another way.

While the tone of the Democratic Convention's opening night was pretty predictable, there were some surprises. Ted Kennedy's capacity to deliver a rousing address on the heels of his brain surgery, and the rhetorical gifts of Obama's wife, family, and in-laws were displayed. Former Republican Congressman Jim Leach provided a lesson in history and civics.

So by now those on the txtmsg list got the message early this morning: "I have some important news that I want to make official. I've chosen Joe Biden to be my running mate." It's official: It's Obama/Biden

You've heard McCain's mantra; it is the same as Bush's mantra: "I want to lower taxes, Obama wants to raise taxes." To which Obama replies, "I want to raise taxes on the rich but reduce taxes for everyone else." This is probably the most important difference between McCain and Obama because it demonstrates the philosphical difference between Republicans and Democrats

Americans are disturbed by the conflict between big Russia and little Georgia, ostensibly driven by Russia's desire to use oil and gas as a way to control states formerly part of the Soviet Union - as well as Europe. Reactions demonstrating our worry about oil are misplaced

Republicans, tired of Bush/Cheney belligerence and mismanagement, have decided to go with someone else - a maverick called Senator John McCain. But is McCain different from Bush/Cheney? Of course, Democrats think they're alike. And so do many Republicans. Three prominent Republicans have recently switched in favor of Obama.

There has been lots of talk about energy lately, most of it off base. Because we are all focused on the high price of gas we scream for immediate action - such as drilling, tapping the energy reserve and "clean coal." Let's not worry about the price of gas. This high price is reducing gas use and thus reducing carbon emissions.

Republicans took to ridiculing Senator Obama over a remark he made about making sure our tires are inflated by passing out tire gauges. Really. Are Republicans that stupid? It's a fact that properly inflating your tires will save you about $800 per year -- and America about 50,000 barrels of oil per day.

My local rag did a comparison of Obama's and McCain's tax plans today. It's interesting to note that the middle class will do much better under a President Obama.

Senator John McCain has an outstanding reputation with the press and the public because they think he is a straight talker and a straight shooter. And he was that way during the 2004 presidential campaign. But once he embarked on his current campaign to become president he has changed. He is no longer a straight shooter but a character assassin.