Article II Section 1 clause 5 "No person except a natural-born citizen or a citizen of the United States at he time of the Adoption of this Constituion shall be eligilbel to the office of the Presidency"
Let me see if I understand this clause correctly: Naturalized citizens like Albert Einstien cannot run for the presidency. But I could because I myself am not a naturalized citizen. Naturalized citizens can't but thier descendants can?
On the one hand I can understand the concern about Foriegn governments trying to take control or have undue influence. But really, if somone wants to be the President (or becomes the President) don't they have to swear to uphold the constitution and in general "support/take care of" the US? Then in my mind, being influenced by a foreign power would be going against that oath. So I am leaning towards allowing Naturalized citizens the opportunity.
But! People might also be uncomfortable if the person in question has not been here in the US for "long enough to understand the way the US works" . Maybe there could be a minimum amount of years a naturalized citizen would have to have been here in the US inorder to run for the Presidency.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
MY Presidental Pardons
Well I know I would not pardon a turkey like Govenor Palin.
First would I use it? (If so who would be pardoned?) If I were president I would use the pardons only in the most extreme situations. (So I'd probably use it less than our current president has) What does extreme situation mean to me? I don't really know off the top of my head.
Tax evasion would not be excused especially considering the economical downturn.
But on the other hand, as Carley brought up in class: having those people in jail puts more economic strain on the taxpayers. So pardons help the economic downturn in some cases?
Then when I think about some of the recent pardons dealing with drugs, those people probably were just trying to get money for themselves or thier families and weren't getting enough through thier jobs. So could there be a way for those people to end up in a working type enviroment after they are pardoned? (so that they could stay out of trouble?)
So maybe I would pardon drug dealers with families on the outside... could I add the condition of them somehow getting a job or at least attempting to? probably not.....
But lets say a case of murder was brought up... I would have to see EVERYTHING before deciding a pardon....
This is a really difficult question.....Maybe it would be better to have a comittee set up to deal with pardons....But then who can't be baised about the crimes and will that take too much time?
First would I use it? (If so who would be pardoned?) If I were president I would use the pardons only in the most extreme situations. (So I'd probably use it less than our current president has) What does extreme situation mean to me? I don't really know off the top of my head.
Tax evasion would not be excused especially considering the economical downturn.
But on the other hand, as Carley brought up in class: having those people in jail puts more economic strain on the taxpayers. So pardons help the economic downturn in some cases?
Then when I think about some of the recent pardons dealing with drugs, those people probably were just trying to get money for themselves or thier families and weren't getting enough through thier jobs. So could there be a way for those people to end up in a working type enviroment after they are pardoned? (so that they could stay out of trouble?)
So maybe I would pardon drug dealers with families on the outside... could I add the condition of them somehow getting a job or at least attempting to? probably not.....
But lets say a case of murder was brought up... I would have to see EVERYTHING before deciding a pardon....
This is a really difficult question.....Maybe it would be better to have a comittee set up to deal with pardons....But then who can't be baised about the crimes and will that take too much time?
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Most Important Helper
Who is the most important helper to the president?
Right now I would say economic advisors are going to be the most important. I mean given the economic now titled "Crisis" we are facing all other problems fall to the wayside. Think about it...if people are not able to keep thier jobs or earn money then they can't support the troops abroad, they will have a hard time sending thier kids to school and college, they can't help people here in America after a natural distaster because they don't have the money or other resources to help. So I predict that our next president will be looking inward, to stablize the country as he starts his term.
Right now I would say economic advisors are going to be the most important. I mean given the economic now titled "Crisis" we are facing all other problems fall to the wayside. Think about it...if people are not able to keep thier jobs or earn money then they can't support the troops abroad, they will have a hard time sending thier kids to school and college, they can't help people here in America after a natural distaster because they don't have the money or other resources to help. So I predict that our next president will be looking inward, to stablize the country as he starts his term.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
McCain cedes defeat
I am listening to his speech after many people today told me that his speech was amazing. I am amazed...why couldn't he have spoken this way the entire campaign? It is very eloquent and moving. It is of course honorable, and most impressively speaking to the goal ahead of bringing our nation together. That shows, I think a great deal of patriotism to say "ok I lost, now lets move foreward and do our best for our country under the leader we now have."
I dislike the crowd. They keep booing about Obama & Biden commentary that McCain makes...his comments are good for crying out loud! And get over it, you voted you tried, follow McCain's example and move foreward.
But, I am very happy to see that McCain has the honor and humilty to cede defeat and not draw this out into a hinderance for the country. As I said before, that was an amazing speech. I actually listened to all of it (gasp) there's a surprise right?
So, I for one want to follow McCain's example. It's the future we are heading to, lets look that way.
I dislike the crowd. They keep booing about Obama & Biden commentary that McCain makes...his comments are good for crying out loud! And get over it, you voted you tried, follow McCain's example and move foreward.
But, I am very happy to see that McCain has the honor and humilty to cede defeat and not draw this out into a hinderance for the country. As I said before, that was an amazing speech. I actually listened to all of it (gasp) there's a surprise right?
So, I for one want to follow McCain's example. It's the future we are heading to, lets look that way.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Dun-Dun-Dun Election Day!
I'm watching it on BBC America...I figure the people across the pond will be a little less biased. I'm actually enjoying thier commentary: Something about the way we Americans do our voting is not as good as the Brits. :) haha
They have a countdown for when the polls close...which i find rather interesting. Also they go to each state and see who could possibly win. ....It appears that Obama is hitting all of the big states.
.....And they are commenting on the type of news stations and whether they are conservative or not. (FOX) ...And also the international affect of this election & the international audience watching. ....I wonder how many people around the world are watching.
More to come...
It would appear that people are going to debate things no matter what nationality and want to get the final word in.
They have a countdown for when the polls close...which i find rather interesting. Also they go to each state and see who could possibly win. ....It appears that Obama is hitting all of the big states.
.....And they are commenting on the type of news stations and whether they are conservative or not. (FOX) ...And also the international affect of this election & the international audience watching. ....I wonder how many people around the world are watching.
More to come...
It would appear that people are going to debate things no matter what nationality and want to get the final word in.
Friday, October 31, 2008
The Voting Age
The question in Question: Should we lower the age to 16?
Honestly I think no. But! I do think we should lower it to 17. By then it is either the students junior or senior year, might have participated in a government class and they will be a little more interested in politics depending on the grade. E.g. at our school the seniors are so psyched about elections, but only a small portion of us can. Imagine if the entire senior class could vote! But the juniors...at least the one's I hang out with don't care. Granted maybe that's because they aren't only a year or a month or a few days off from being able to vote. I believe that the point about young people starting the vote at a young age will participate more when they get older is a valid one. But how low is too low? I think 16 is because most 16 year olds don't have class mates that would be voting and therefore don't really care plus they're 16. Most likely they care more about being able to drive than to vote. So why not space things out like this: 16 year olds = driving, 17 = voting 18= adult.
But perhaps most important than what age the voting age is, is the fact that the voters need to be informed about what is going on and what the issues are. To take some fire from one of my friends in my govt class "Why not make it a requirement that the voting age people have to have take civis or government classes before they vote? That way they know what they are doing and what they are voting for."
Honestly I think no. But! I do think we should lower it to 17. By then it is either the students junior or senior year, might have participated in a government class and they will be a little more interested in politics depending on the grade. E.g. at our school the seniors are so psyched about elections, but only a small portion of us can. Imagine if the entire senior class could vote! But the juniors...at least the one's I hang out with don't care. Granted maybe that's because they aren't only a year or a month or a few days off from being able to vote. I believe that the point about young people starting the vote at a young age will participate more when they get older is a valid one. But how low is too low? I think 16 is because most 16 year olds don't have class mates that would be voting and therefore don't really care plus they're 16. Most likely they care more about being able to drive than to vote. So why not space things out like this: 16 year olds = driving, 17 = voting 18= adult.
But perhaps most important than what age the voting age is, is the fact that the voters need to be informed about what is going on and what the issues are. To take some fire from one of my friends in my govt class "Why not make it a requirement that the voting age people have to have take civis or government classes before they vote? That way they know what they are doing and what they are voting for."
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Reform the E.C?
Automaticallly and almost sarcastically I say "Why not? We're trying to reform everything else."
then I get to thinking, what exactly does this entail. So in the little quiz I am currently taking I have gone No, Yes....but have looked at both arguements. The arguements against it make very little sense and have little strenght in them aside from it would call our Constitution into question which is very disquieting to some people. One arguement I find weak is: if the E.C is changed why not change the senate and house of reps? Well if it ain't broke don't fix it right? It would seem to me that the senate and house of reps election bases are working fine. But the E.C. is broke or has some bolt screwed loose so why not "fix" it? The way it works now the "little guy" has more say than the big one. Ok fine...but then doesn't that mean that the president will most likely be a propoenent of that regions ideas? (this is opposite an arguement I read) On the other hand the E.C. has a way of getting small groups interests into the two party system by trying to address thier needs. Remember there are different parties other than the Democrats and Republicans. But I wonder what would happen if those other parties were given a fighting chance...I imagine there would be more differing ideas in the government which could cause one of 2 things: 1. the differing opinions would fight against each other so terribly that nothing would get done or 2. the different opinions would find the best in each others ideas and COMPROMISE like the founding father's did and better things would get done.
I ended up saying yes because quite honestly the arguments against Yes barely made sense to me and appeared weak. So maybe don't chuck everything out the window but tweak it so that it works a little better.
then I get to thinking, what exactly does this entail. So in the little quiz I am currently taking I have gone No, Yes....but have looked at both arguements. The arguements against it make very little sense and have little strenght in them aside from it would call our Constitution into question which is very disquieting to some people. One arguement I find weak is: if the E.C is changed why not change the senate and house of reps? Well if it ain't broke don't fix it right? It would seem to me that the senate and house of reps election bases are working fine. But the E.C. is broke or has some bolt screwed loose so why not "fix" it? The way it works now the "little guy" has more say than the big one. Ok fine...but then doesn't that mean that the president will most likely be a propoenent of that regions ideas? (this is opposite an arguement I read) On the other hand the E.C. has a way of getting small groups interests into the two party system by trying to address thier needs. Remember there are different parties other than the Democrats and Republicans. But I wonder what would happen if those other parties were given a fighting chance...I imagine there would be more differing ideas in the government which could cause one of 2 things: 1. the differing opinions would fight against each other so terribly that nothing would get done or 2. the different opinions would find the best in each others ideas and COMPROMISE like the founding father's did and better things would get done.
I ended up saying yes because quite honestly the arguments against Yes barely made sense to me and appeared weak. So maybe don't chuck everything out the window but tweak it so that it works a little better.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Palin: Keep VA Red?
The majority of the senior class went to the Palin rally. We actually got in! A far cry from what people were regaling with the Obama rally which came to our "historical" town in September. The "historical" was said not by Palin but the local republican "community organizer" who visited my class also in early September. We were in the back, the taller people amoung the grade faired almost as well as I did (me standing at about 5 foot and the taller ones over 6 foot) Although my sightline was awful I could still hear Palin, Whitman and Gilmore and whoever else talked in the front. (And I caught sight of each speaker for a total of 5 seconds apiece on my tip-toes!) But, what was more interesting to me than the speeches being made up front were the comments made in the back by other attendees. Some people were talking about their ideas ans what they wanted changed and why they wanted the Republicans in office. I honestly enjoyed those conversations more than the speeches (and I paid more attention to them as well). Some shouted "Yeah!" "You go Girl!" "Right!" in reference to whatever the republicans were saying. And at one point to my (and other students) shock "Communist!!!" in reference to Obama. Other Obama haters had signs connecting him with Marxist ideas and terrorism. By the end of the rally I was tired of the slurs I heard against Obama and felt I had heard little to make me want to vote for the Republicans if I could.
Also, Sorry Palin, but I think Whitman got the most applause. Maybe that was because my grade started screaming our lungs out (every one of us) when Whitman went up to speak. Yes he visited our school as well. And he actually gave a speech that when I paid attention to it, made me want to elect him. Other people in the back seemed to like him as well.
Gilmore's speech irratated me more than anything. He kept repeating, "The answer is McCain, Palin, and Gilmore!" ....sounds like a college plug only its political.
At least 3 of the speakers including Palin said the usual narrative speech which I have grown tired of about I am so and so an average person. "I have suffered all this and endured through all that and I am now going to put the lessons learned from that to serve you!" Although I did like the fact that someone mentioned that Palin has run a state and raised 5 kids and that they'd like to see a man do that. However someone could point out that Biden basically raised his kids on his own. (but i forget how many he has.)
After the first few speeches to get us pumped up there was dead time. We were waiting for Palin to show up...they had music playing and at one point for all of maybe 50 seconds someone along with Whitman were throwing t-shirts and towels into the crowd. I think the GOP could hav ehad something going on during then to keep the energy up.
So the rally was interesting to see how a rally works, what goes on and of course to see the celebrity politicans themselves. (and husband in tow in Palin's case) But all I can really remeber about it was smears and talk that I have heard before. I don't think it won any votes.
Also, Sorry Palin, but I think Whitman got the most applause. Maybe that was because my grade started screaming our lungs out (every one of us) when Whitman went up to speak. Yes he visited our school as well. And he actually gave a speech that when I paid attention to it, made me want to elect him. Other people in the back seemed to like him as well.
Gilmore's speech irratated me more than anything. He kept repeating, "The answer is McCain, Palin, and Gilmore!" ....sounds like a college plug only its political.
At least 3 of the speakers including Palin said the usual narrative speech which I have grown tired of about I am so and so an average person. "I have suffered all this and endured through all that and I am now going to put the lessons learned from that to serve you!" Although I did like the fact that someone mentioned that Palin has run a state and raised 5 kids and that they'd like to see a man do that. However someone could point out that Biden basically raised his kids on his own. (but i forget how many he has.)
After the first few speeches to get us pumped up there was dead time. We were waiting for Palin to show up...they had music playing and at one point for all of maybe 50 seconds someone along with Whitman were throwing t-shirts and towels into the crowd. I think the GOP could hav ehad something going on during then to keep the energy up.
So the rally was interesting to see how a rally works, what goes on and of course to see the celebrity politicans themselves. (and husband in tow in Palin's case) But all I can really remeber about it was smears and talk that I have heard before. I don't think it won any votes.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Regulate or Not?
Alright. Honestly the pro-regulating argument made more sense to me than the con-regulating one. The con arguement stated that regulating the lobbyist groups in Washington would basically say what could be said and what couldn't; what politics were good and what weren't. Also, it brought up the first ammendment saying regulation would deny people that right.
I disagree. Regulation to me appears to allow the groups to be heard equally. I don't see how that change would make some of thier arguements good and some bad and some that can't be said and some that can. If regulating 1. 'levels the playing field' and 2. lets the common people see where all this money is going and what is being done with it than i think it's fine. Probably the 2nd part of point number 2 is where people against regulation are jumping. But why spend money to go to save children in africa if it is just going to end up in a schemer's pocket? And if these lobbyists are really doing something for a public good then they have nothing to fear from regulation right?
I still need some information on what the implications are of regulation to make a full assesment of where i stand on this.
Comments please!
I disagree. Regulation to me appears to allow the groups to be heard equally. I don't see how that change would make some of thier arguements good and some bad and some that can't be said and some that can. If regulating 1. 'levels the playing field' and 2. lets the common people see where all this money is going and what is being done with it than i think it's fine. Probably the 2nd part of point number 2 is where people against regulation are jumping. But why spend money to go to save children in africa if it is just going to end up in a schemer's pocket? And if these lobbyists are really doing something for a public good then they have nothing to fear from regulation right?
I still need some information on what the implications are of regulation to make a full assesment of where i stand on this.
Comments please!
Friday, October 17, 2008
NCLB commentary
Alright I went through again and I did the NCLB issue. First off I am biased, I know a teacher in Spotsy County who has seen how NCLB doesn't work. I understand the arguements made about understanding basic math and reading but here is my question back...why didn't you teach them that back in elementary school when they were supposed to learn it? So maybe keep those aspects of NCLB for elementary schools and loosen up the middle and high schools. Secondly I really dislike the standardize testing stuff. Hello, you do it on the SATs maybe 3 to 4 times MAX then never again. But you do have to have opinions and back them up, you do have to understand how to think for yourself, you do need to have a way to think on your feet when you get into the adult 'real world'. So get rid of the standardize test stress, and keep the getting the basics for those that need it in elementary school. So the NCLB we have right now isn't working but maybe a modified version would...
Please comment back I actually want to hear some opinions on this.
Please comment back I actually want to hear some opinions on this.
Down With Oil!?!??
In the game I chose the dependence on foreign oil question. Should we end it? Originally I said yes, because I know that it leaves us at the beck and call of oragnizations like OPEC and overall it isn't healthy for the enviroment and that the reserves are going to dry up someday! BUT I ended up saying no. My solution would be to wean us off of our dependance slowly instead of suddenly severing ties. First, we are not ready to handle the demand for energy with the resources we have now. Again they are going to run out at some point. Second, our alternative fuels and energy options are still young and have bugs in them that need to be worked out. Then third, this I found the most enlightening, our oil trades have established relationships with other countries that can be beneficial in either wartime, or peace, and overall to our economy. That's why I think we should NOT cease our dependance on foriegn oil completely but somehow find a way to decrease it. But this option does not help us in the short picture because the technology needed to supply the energy that would be needed is still a while a way.
My answer was in the 20%.
My answer was in the 20%.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
If I Could.....
If I could vote, who would I vote for? Good Question. As a preamble to my answer (haha) I might as well say that I have done ONLY the McCain projects for class. So I know a little bit about his polices on Education, and Energy and the Enviroment. (Hey those all start with E!...sorry) Anyway. I was also able because of this to study a little bit of Obama's plans in these three categories, so as to have a counter McCain based argument. But other than these three categories I still know very little about thier ideas on the issues. (Except for economy which was the only thing talked about in these past debates) From what I saw, I agreed more with Obama's ideas than McCain's. But I want to see and know more.
I respect McCain's experience, but he has played that tune ad nauseum. I respect Obama's willingness to make it work and find a way that works. But then he plays his middle class horn ad nauseum. As I have said in class, One is looking foreward and one is looking back. But does that really matter? If it does then which is more important? The past that you learn from or the future you are going to?
Now I'm getting philosophical sorry!
Alright I'll answer already!! I think I would vote Obama. Here's my reasoning: He talks about change and trying new things and seeing what works. Lets face it, whatever is happening now is not working. So (to use a soundbite) maybe that's the change we need. Also, he keeps himself prepared for arguements and at least attempts to focus in debates on what the people need. And, on the issues we researched in class his ideas made more sense to me than McCain's. (although that might have just been the layout of his website....)
Does this mean I will/would vote Democrat in every election to come? No. I want to see which candidate appears to be able to do the job best. And at this time, Obama seems to be best suited for the job.
I respect McCain's experience, but he has played that tune ad nauseum. I respect Obama's willingness to make it work and find a way that works. But then he plays his middle class horn ad nauseum. As I have said in class, One is looking foreward and one is looking back. But does that really matter? If it does then which is more important? The past that you learn from or the future you are going to?
Now I'm getting philosophical sorry!
Alright I'll answer already!! I think I would vote Obama. Here's my reasoning: He talks about change and trying new things and seeing what works. Lets face it, whatever is happening now is not working. So (to use a soundbite) maybe that's the change we need. Also, he keeps himself prepared for arguements and at least attempts to focus in debates on what the people need. And, on the issues we researched in class his ideas made more sense to me than McCain's. (although that might have just been the layout of his website....)
Does this mean I will/would vote Democrat in every election to come? No. I want to see which candidate appears to be able to do the job best. And at this time, Obama seems to be best suited for the job.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Town Hall Style Presidental Debate
This should be interesting since it's actually people asking the questions and not a moderator who has gone through all of them and decided which to ask.
I will try to find a way to stream the debate so that people can look at my comments and the debate.
Policy illuminates character? How about not mudslinging showing character?
NBC newscaster = moderator any biasedness?
Never mind the guy has selected questions....is he planning on publishing a book??
lol we are not constrained with cheering and so forth haha.
Obama turned away last....hmmm.....
and the thank yous begin. Answer the question.....gah that's a hard hit saying this is as bad as the Great Depression. At least he's answering the question with what is wrong and what he wants to do. Attacking the banks and talking about new jobs...Sounds alot like what FDR did...
McCain again with the thank yous. Following the ideas of republicans with fiscal policy of low taxes on everyone. He talks more about the housing crisis and keeps saying my friends when adressing the people. Pointed out he's not Obama and that he's not Bush. Trying to seperate himself out as his own person.
Secretary of Treasury
McCain never really named someone as the treasury secretary ...named a characteristic of trust. Almost seems to be playing it safe.
Obama is playing his horn of middle class pretty hard and never answered question.
The Bailout
McCain is being positive that the economy will come back. Blaming Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Just called out Obama!!!!!!! I think McCain just dropped the ball. Wants to do what?? Buy up the loans and keep the homes. How will that help? (I keep saying burn!)
Obama explaining the business and work side of the jobs. Burn back to McCain. (McCain is standing uh-oh)
Both are saying the other is basically to blame for the crisis. yay! Obama cleaned it up! thank you! I don't want to see the pointing back and forth.
did they ever answer the question?
Going to Get Worse??
Obama: No. Confident in the economy. Wants to change alot of things.
McCain: Depends on what we do. (interesting response) Still pointing fingers. (repeating something that palin said??) American workers are the best in the world.
How can we trust you? Either of you?
Obama: Alot of Blame to go around. Bush = problem??? No one is completely innocent. Pointing fingers again. But then saying his plan.
McCain = bipartisan, reformer. fighting against spending. Still pointing fingers alot.
Both keep talking about lobbyists and corruptions and cronies. GEE Washington seems great.
Why isn't education first on Obama's list??
However I do like the fact that they both get to address the people up front. See the people and hear thier voices. These are the American people that need to be encouraged, need to have trust need something to help them. But right now I'm more impressed with Obama's responses of what he is going to do but as i said he is really tooting the middle class horn. McCain doesn't seem to be at all adressing the questions fully with what his plans are or making them understandable. But something does seem a little different at least for the first five minutes.
Sorry people I'm gone!
I will try to find a way to stream the debate so that people can look at my comments and the debate.
Policy illuminates character? How about not mudslinging showing character?
NBC newscaster = moderator any biasedness?
Never mind the guy has selected questions....is he planning on publishing a book??
lol we are not constrained with cheering and so forth haha.
Obama turned away last....hmmm.....
and the thank yous begin. Answer the question.....gah that's a hard hit saying this is as bad as the Great Depression. At least he's answering the question with what is wrong and what he wants to do. Attacking the banks and talking about new jobs...Sounds alot like what FDR did...
McCain again with the thank yous. Following the ideas of republicans with fiscal policy of low taxes on everyone. He talks more about the housing crisis and keeps saying my friends when adressing the people. Pointed out he's not Obama and that he's not Bush. Trying to seperate himself out as his own person.
Secretary of Treasury
McCain never really named someone as the treasury secretary ...named a characteristic of trust. Almost seems to be playing it safe.
Obama is playing his horn of middle class pretty hard and never answered question.
The Bailout
McCain is being positive that the economy will come back. Blaming Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Just called out Obama!!!!!!! I think McCain just dropped the ball. Wants to do what?? Buy up the loans and keep the homes. How will that help? (I keep saying burn!)
Obama explaining the business and work side of the jobs. Burn back to McCain. (McCain is standing uh-oh)
Both are saying the other is basically to blame for the crisis. yay! Obama cleaned it up! thank you! I don't want to see the pointing back and forth.
did they ever answer the question?
Going to Get Worse??
Obama: No. Confident in the economy. Wants to change alot of things.
McCain: Depends on what we do. (interesting response) Still pointing fingers. (repeating something that palin said??) American workers are the best in the world.
How can we trust you? Either of you?
Obama: Alot of Blame to go around. Bush = problem??? No one is completely innocent. Pointing fingers again. But then saying his plan.
McCain = bipartisan, reformer. fighting against spending. Still pointing fingers alot.
Both keep talking about lobbyists and corruptions and cronies. GEE Washington seems great.
Why isn't education first on Obama's list??
However I do like the fact that they both get to address the people up front. See the people and hear thier voices. These are the American people that need to be encouraged, need to have trust need something to help them. But right now I'm more impressed with Obama's responses of what he is going to do but as i said he is really tooting the middle class horn. McCain doesn't seem to be at all adressing the questions fully with what his plans are or making them understandable. But something does seem a little different at least for the first five minutes.
Sorry people I'm gone!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
ONLY VP debate 08
alright now we start. (why have vps never debated before?) Did anyone else laugh at Palin asking Biden if she could call him Joe?
Economic policy, Interesting that Biden repeated things that Obama has set up. Good interesting, he's sticking to the path laid down. Palin is sounding a little more professional. Except for when she said I'll betcha. (bringing up McCain's ideas good) pointing fingers a little bit (palin cough cough heck both of them.)
haha being binded in by the regulations of the debates.
I don't understand Palin's arguement back to Biden's about McCain's statements on the Economy.
Pulling up new energy. isnt that obama's idea?
haha Never answered the question!
corruption vs unknowledgable that is the question
Overall impression of Biden
More using of historical information about the President candidates.
Overall impression of Palin or just impression
pointing out the not answering the question
he's smiling alot
fairness statement idk what he means by that!
he's talking to the middle class too.
opinionated!!!!!! using her sound-bites alot. Wants the govt to control buisnesses?? Learn from it. wavering between formal and informality speaking. Wants to talk to the people...interesting tactics
stopped easily
they are agreeing on things.....
pointing fingers back and forth, rebuttaling a statement which one is correct.
again stream of conciousness :)
Economic policy, Interesting that Biden repeated things that Obama has set up. Good interesting, he's sticking to the path laid down. Palin is sounding a little more professional. Except for when she said I'll betcha. (bringing up McCain's ideas good) pointing fingers a little bit (palin cough cough heck both of them.)
haha being binded in by the regulations of the debates.
I don't understand Palin's arguement back to Biden's about McCain's statements on the Economy.
Pulling up new energy. isnt that obama's idea?
haha Never answered the question!
corruption vs unknowledgable that is the question
Overall impression of Biden
More using of historical information about the President candidates.
Overall impression of Palin or just impression
pointing out the not answering the question
he's smiling alot
fairness statement idk what he means by that!
he's talking to the middle class too.
opinionated!!!!!! using her sound-bites alot. Wants the govt to control buisnesses?? Learn from it. wavering between formal and informality speaking. Wants to talk to the people...interesting tactics
stopped easily
they are agreeing on things.....
pointing fingers back and forth, rebuttaling a statement which one is correct.
again stream of conciousness :)
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
The National Cry
I've added another video to the webpage. This is from Obama's camp (go figure) and it has all sorts of different people basically explaining why they want to vote for Obama and it includes some quotes from Obama's speeches and I think someone else's. One quote used the Appeal to Force...you'll hear it. It the one saying "this is our last chance!" Then the rest of it seems to be bandwagoning. I find it interesting though that Obama is using ALOT of normal people in his comercials while McCain is not. I suppose this is another way to get people to vote for him, by appearing as someone the people can relate to.
Monday, September 29, 2008
I'm Voting Republican - YouTube
Alright If you look to the bottom of the page you will see a YouTube video. Watch it. It is hilarious or at least i find i that way. Everyone's comments are exaggerated and Ironic and well watch it already!! On a more serious note, it points out why people might not want to vote republican. I really am wondering right now who made it because it is almost as good as the comercails on tv. (sorry for the sp) The video is quite helpful because it shows many of the different issues that voters are having to decide about in this election.
however i disagree with the woman talking about education because well it didn't make sense to me. We have a class of about 31 kids and we don't fight for attention. If someone can explain that comment to me i will be greatly obliged.
however i disagree with the woman talking about education because well it didn't make sense to me. We have a class of about 31 kids and we don't fight for attention. If someone can explain that comment to me i will be greatly obliged.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Taking a Stand on Enviroment and Energy
This is difficult because both candidates ideas are so similar. Both are talking about using American Resources either drilling or natural gas. Both are talking about new technology and therfore jobs. Both actually have a car challenge.
I actually would probably vote Obama on this issue because he is planning on using Natural gas somehow ,which might cause extra issues of how to use it, i admit. But I beleive should be less harmful to the enviroment around the source of gas than drilling would. Then his car challenge (this is going to make me sound like a scrooge) offers more tax credit than McCains. By the time it is in full affect I will probably be old enough to take advantage of it. Then of course his ideas of new jobs is great and seems like it will help. He has both long and short term ideas, which helps alot because we are going to need ideas that carry into the long term not just quick fixes that help us for only a few years.
I actually would probably vote Obama on this issue because he is planning on using Natural gas somehow ,which might cause extra issues of how to use it, i admit. But I beleive should be less harmful to the enviroment around the source of gas than drilling would. Then his car challenge (this is going to make me sound like a scrooge) offers more tax credit than McCains. By the time it is in full affect I will probably be old enough to take advantage of it. Then of course his ideas of new jobs is great and seems like it will help. He has both long and short term ideas, which helps alot because we are going to need ideas that carry into the long term not just quick fixes that help us for only a few years.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
School Speeches
They seemed to be an overall talk. I almost think they adressed too much.
McCain: sorry but he fidgeted too much and it distracted me from what he was saying. Also his eye contact with the audience was minimal. He had a good opening that really said that he was attentive to us as a young audience. But then the didn't seem to adress the issues in a way that mattered to us.However, he did give solutions to problems that he adressed. Also, one thing that turned me off was a part in his speech which basically dissed the UN. Then he said we need to make allies....pick a side and stay with it please. Overall it was an ok speech but as ususal with all things, there is stuff to improve.
Obama: the Obama rep, did a very good job of using Obama's catchphrases in a way that didn't beat it over my head. (However the word change was said too often for me.) He also did a good job at enunciating his words in a way that carried across the room. However again I believe he did not adress he issues in a way that made us care. He, just like the McCain rep, did give solutions to the different issues he adressed.
Both canidate reps did a good job with thier speeches. But in my case left me with a lot of questions about the canidates that are left unanswered.
Good job AP Govt Class!
McCain: sorry but he fidgeted too much and it distracted me from what he was saying. Also his eye contact with the audience was minimal. He had a good opening that really said that he was attentive to us as a young audience. But then the didn't seem to adress the issues in a way that mattered to us.However, he did give solutions to problems that he adressed. Also, one thing that turned me off was a part in his speech which basically dissed the UN. Then he said we need to make allies....pick a side and stay with it please. Overall it was an ok speech but as ususal with all things, there is stuff to improve.
Obama: the Obama rep, did a very good job of using Obama's catchphrases in a way that didn't beat it over my head. (However the word change was said too often for me.) He also did a good job at enunciating his words in a way that carried across the room. However again I believe he did not adress he issues in a way that made us care. He, just like the McCain rep, did give solutions to the different issues he adressed.
Both canidate reps did a good job with thier speeches. But in my case left me with a lot of questions about the canidates that are left unanswered.
Good job AP Govt Class!
Monday, September 8, 2008
UpBeat
According to the political quiz we took in class, I am an Upbeat. What does this mean??? It means I am optimistic about what is going on e.g with the economy etc and unsure about what to do in foriegn affairs. So it does lean on the side of conservative but not quite. I think it is very close to true. I do try to be optimistic about what is going good, but I do realize when things aren't so good.
This quiz is very eye opening.
This quiz is very eye opening.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Raise Up McCain
I watched short clips of McCain's speech and it keeps the optimism I have seen him keep through other parts of the campaign. He seems almost painfully optimistic about the future and what American can do and Will become. His optimism reminds me of Regan almost, because he was very optimistic as well.
And Again the people in the crowd started chanting.
McCain always is bringing up events that stirr patriotic fervor. (9/11, his part in Vietnam etc)
Honorable service to the country - refering to the present president and family thereof.
Showing family values, praising his wife and children. Trying to show those values that Americans want to see preserved.
Make ourselves usefull to the country.
Both Candidates not wanting to let thier people down.
McCain addressed the people who aren't sure. Interesting
Addressed Obama: honorable, united because we are Americans. Again, Interesting. Tactic or Sincere? Hopefully Sincere...plus I at least automatically think that he is...now is that because I am biased upon the fact that he is a Vietname veteran???
So I think I've seen the first part and last part.
Lots of question are now raised in my mind.
And Again the people in the crowd started chanting.
McCain always is bringing up events that stirr patriotic fervor. (9/11, his part in Vietnam etc)
Honorable service to the country - refering to the present president and family thereof.
Showing family values, praising his wife and children. Trying to show those values that Americans want to see preserved.
Make ourselves usefull to the country.
Both Candidates not wanting to let thier people down.
McCain addressed the people who aren't sure. Interesting
Addressed Obama: honorable, united because we are Americans. Again, Interesting. Tactic or Sincere? Hopefully Sincere...plus I at least automatically think that he is...now is that because I am biased upon the fact that he is a Vietname veteran???
So I think I've seen the first part and last part.
Lots of question are now raised in my mind.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Republic National Convention Part 1
They are really hyping up the soliders of both Vietnam & Iraq. Everytime this one guy (sorry I don't know who he is) says something like POWs stand and be recognized everyone is going to stand and cheer. People were chanting USA i think...that is more i don't want to say energy because certainly the DNC had energy. But something is different.
(At least this guy didn't talk very long)
Bush's speech :
backing himself (standing in the rubble of buildings promising survivors quote)
talking about McCain's POW time...didn't break his honor (what about his spirit??)
Getting alot of applause...Protector. Has to wait to get applause..where's the screen telling them to applaud?
Made them laugh. (commentators saying a way to seperate him and McCain)
alot of honesty Frankness & speaking from the heart describing McCain
rather loose an election than loose a war...What does that mean to me? (or prospective voters??)
Offensive tactics = main attention. Now focusing on Palin...2 seconds that's it??? 2 seconds talking about her????
optimistic ...sunrise. (reminiscent of regan)
They like Mrs. Bush.
Why is everyone saying "God Bless" insert item of choice???? Isn't that a good way of ticking people off?
Bringing up Mrs. McCain's rep. Interesting touch.
Later...Really going into McCain's story. I'm sorry but it's getting to be a little much for me. Yes I know he served. Yes I know he's a great man. But I want to know what he is going to do NOW not what he did. Seems almost like i dont know how to put it...but like getting votes through his suffering in the past. I have no doubt he has a fine character. But I am tired of the POW story. It has been worn out.
But they are keeping it up to make the American Ideals seem to be his middle name. Something that voters want to see.
finally mentioning the spirit not broken.
saying we're winnng. That's debatable...no matter what side of the aisle you are. Made them start chanting again. What is with the chanting???It has an affect I cannot describe!
Still keeping up the inexperienced argument against Obama. How is that going to backfire?
Looks like there's not much else to see tonight.
(At least this guy didn't talk very long)
Bush's speech :
backing himself (standing in the rubble of buildings promising survivors quote)
talking about McCain's POW time...didn't break his honor (what about his spirit??)
Getting alot of applause...Protector. Has to wait to get applause..where's the screen telling them to applaud?
Made them laugh. (commentators saying a way to seperate him and McCain)
alot of honesty Frankness & speaking from the heart describing McCain
rather loose an election than loose a war...What does that mean to me? (or prospective voters??)
Offensive tactics = main attention. Now focusing on Palin...2 seconds that's it??? 2 seconds talking about her????
optimistic ...sunrise. (reminiscent of regan)
They like Mrs. Bush.
Why is everyone saying "God Bless" insert item of choice???? Isn't that a good way of ticking people off?
Bringing up Mrs. McCain's rep. Interesting touch.
Later...Really going into McCain's story. I'm sorry but it's getting to be a little much for me. Yes I know he served. Yes I know he's a great man. But I want to know what he is going to do NOW not what he did. Seems almost like i dont know how to put it...but like getting votes through his suffering in the past. I have no doubt he has a fine character. But I am tired of the POW story. It has been worn out.
But they are keeping it up to make the American Ideals seem to be his middle name. Something that voters want to see.
finally mentioning the spirit not broken.
saying we're winnng. That's debatable...no matter what side of the aisle you are. Made them start chanting again. What is with the chanting???It has an affect I cannot describe!
Still keeping up the inexperienced argument against Obama. How is that going to backfire?
Looks like there's not much else to see tonight.
The Issues
http://www.cnn.com/ELECTION/2008/issues/issues.education.html
First off I want to point out that this website has multiple issues & Obama's & McCain's stand on them. I found it very interesting.
My main concern is the Economy. (Sorry I happened to be on the Edu page when I copied the link) This is something that will affect US the next generation as we go into college and the work force. I have been wondering what will happen, what will I have to do to keep afloat when I am on my own and what to do to ensure that I can do everything I want to do. (College obviously, then I don't know maybe have somewhere to live on my own.) In a slight subcategory of this topic I want to know how the Economy can be saved without raising taxes. (If that is at all possible which I think is doubtful)
First off I want to point out that this website has multiple issues & Obama's & McCain's stand on them. I found it very interesting.
My main concern is the Economy. (Sorry I happened to be on the Edu page when I copied the link) This is something that will affect US the next generation as we go into college and the work force. I have been wondering what will happen, what will I have to do to keep afloat when I am on my own and what to do to ensure that I can do everything I want to do. (College obviously, then I don't know maybe have somewhere to live on my own.) In a slight subcategory of this topic I want to know how the Economy can be saved without raising taxes. (If that is at all possible which I think is doubtful)
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Obama's Night: Democratic Convention
I am impressed immensely by the mulitple aspects of history that Obama or whomever set up the convention has paid attention to. (MLK's speech being on the same date being the most prevelant in my mind at the moment.) Overall I find that refreshing because since the beginning of high school I wondered if politicians actually bothered to learn history and learn from it's mistakes and successes. Seems like someone did.
I found it very intriguing that tonights "festivities", shall I say, were so festive and almost like people were there for a party. I saw a very upbeat enviroment. (I wonder what the RCon will be like so I can compare the two.)
There were two events that were probably the most effective of the entire night. 1. the normal average people coming up and talking and 2. Obama's video and beginning of his speech (they seemed to flow into one another). After the beginning I think he lost me for a bit then would get me back when he talked about the average person. I really am seeing an image of Obama that is a normal person. Which seems to be what he wants to portray along with the idea that he is for the average person. This he is accomplishing very well.
Again tonight I am very surprised how much I like this pair (Obama and Biden) going for the presidency. The ideas that are being articulated follow many of my own. The one thing that is sticking in my mind the most is how he brought up abortion and said its ok to have different opinions on if it should be done or not, but why help stop unwanted pregancies from happening so the abortions aren't needed? The following series of comments after the abortion one also caught my attention. They made sense!
If nothing else, I believe Obama is portraying his ideas and himself very effectively.
I found it very intriguing that tonights "festivities", shall I say, were so festive and almost like people were there for a party. I saw a very upbeat enviroment. (I wonder what the RCon will be like so I can compare the two.)
There were two events that were probably the most effective of the entire night. 1. the normal average people coming up and talking and 2. Obama's video and beginning of his speech (they seemed to flow into one another). After the beginning I think he lost me for a bit then would get me back when he talked about the average person. I really am seeing an image of Obama that is a normal person. Which seems to be what he wants to portray along with the idea that he is for the average person. This he is accomplishing very well.
Again tonight I am very surprised how much I like this pair (Obama and Biden) going for the presidency. The ideas that are being articulated follow many of my own. The one thing that is sticking in my mind the most is how he brought up abortion and said its ok to have different opinions on if it should be done or not, but why help stop unwanted pregancies from happening so the abortions aren't needed? The following series of comments after the abortion one also caught my attention. They made sense!
If nothing else, I believe Obama is portraying his ideas and himself very effectively.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Democratic Convention Part 2
HOLD UP! Don't you Mr. Clinton think that we've stuck our noses into enough overseas stuff? Ah the double edged sword we weild. Although I do agree that we need to be role models in our own country. (Mrs. Clinton agrees with you Mr. Clinton.) Interesting pulling in the Family Values and saying American can do better than that. I find it interesting that each Democrat has called McCain a good man. Finally! Less mud slinging! Never mind. Here it goes. Doesn't Clinton know that throughout the American Elections have always swing back and forth between R & D??? When one system seems to be not working the way WE the people want it to we swing to the opposite side. History of American Elections 101.
ahh so He and Obama do have similarities.
Why do they always end with God Bless?
Why did they mention Vladamir Putin????? Isn't he the Minister of Russia?
Now the commentators are talking about Clinton. Kerry is up next? O Gosh I don't know how that's going to affect the Obama Campaign. And you look like a sad donkey. The stakes could not be higher....interesting. (Even more interesting are his terrible speaking skills. ) Dang here goes the firing squad.
Interesting pulling in Guantanamo Bay. There's an image for ya. (How did the Consitution come in?) Good point that we need friends. Here goes the friend thing again. Interesting twist on it though. Never heard that Canidate vs Senator arguement. He said Obama's name wrong!!! Again I am laughing. Ahh interesting pulling out Appeasement. Sorry I am listening to these speeches and hearing so many History references. Gah I feel like a nerd.
Woow pull out the family salute.
Where's Biden?
Yes I already know some of the Obama family History. I want to hear about Barak Obama not the family tree.
Funny that they have to act like he's actually being nominated. Has there ever been a nay?
Ok video about Biden where Biden's family talks, Obama talks...am I going to see him talk?
Like the son's speech. Although it is full of heart he needs to slow down and watch that he is not stumbling over his words.
Finally here he comes. Alright the regular you're so great and soanso's so great etc etc. He's got a good smile & sense of humor. He's presenting himself as a regular person. Good way to win people over. Talking about Family Values certainly doesn't hurt either. word of the night INTERESTING he's bring up alot of American Values & Beliefs. Equality, Morality, Truth, Justice etc. Regular people conversations. And he's willing to laugh at himself. Always looking foreward. Interesting: he's shifting focus from himself to Obama. Quality of the heart.
So there is according to Biden and the others in the Democratic party; a pair going for the presidency who are focused on the Moral and Right.
This is all (my favorite word of the night) interesting. Especially since I grew up in a R family, for me to actually appriciate what a D rep is saying is kinda funny. (in a good way)
Sorry I G2G Byes
ahh so He and Obama do have similarities.
Why do they always end with God Bless?
Why did they mention Vladamir Putin????? Isn't he the Minister of Russia?
Now the commentators are talking about Clinton. Kerry is up next? O Gosh I don't know how that's going to affect the Obama Campaign. And you look like a sad donkey. The stakes could not be higher....interesting. (Even more interesting are his terrible speaking skills. ) Dang here goes the firing squad.
Interesting pulling in Guantanamo Bay. There's an image for ya. (How did the Consitution come in?) Good point that we need friends. Here goes the friend thing again. Interesting twist on it though. Never heard that Canidate vs Senator arguement. He said Obama's name wrong!!! Again I am laughing. Ahh interesting pulling out Appeasement. Sorry I am listening to these speeches and hearing so many History references. Gah I feel like a nerd.
Woow pull out the family salute.
Where's Biden?
Yes I already know some of the Obama family History. I want to hear about Barak Obama not the family tree.
Funny that they have to act like he's actually being nominated. Has there ever been a nay?
Ok video about Biden where Biden's family talks, Obama talks...am I going to see him talk?
Like the son's speech. Although it is full of heart he needs to slow down and watch that he is not stumbling over his words.
Finally here he comes. Alright the regular you're so great and soanso's so great etc etc. He's got a good smile & sense of humor. He's presenting himself as a regular person. Good way to win people over. Talking about Family Values certainly doesn't hurt either. word of the night INTERESTING he's bring up alot of American Values & Beliefs. Equality, Morality, Truth, Justice etc. Regular people conversations. And he's willing to laugh at himself. Always looking foreward. Interesting: he's shifting focus from himself to Obama. Quality of the heart.
So there is according to Biden and the others in the Democratic party; a pair going for the presidency who are focused on the Moral and Right.
This is all (my favorite word of the night) interesting. Especially since I grew up in a R family, for me to actually appriciate what a D rep is saying is kinda funny. (in a good way)
Sorry I G2G Byes
Democratic Convention Part I
Alright...I'm understanding some of the economic terms. (Thank you Economics). I actually liked something the Senator from Indiana said. We, the US, need to stand together united behind an idea. (or even just for the idea of working together.) So then it's not just us teenagers or the 'younger generation' that think that way. Then I thought he needed to stop saying This is not the change we need! I get it! Obama's catchphrase is Change!
So the major problems that voters are wanting help with are: 1. the Economy 2. the War 3. Oil Prices/Dependence/Enviroment Issues 4. Health Care
I know I am missing something.
Interesting that the commentator is comparing Obama to Mr. Clinton. (then going and saying there are problems....ahh people make up your minds!) I guess they really liked him because they keep cheering. WooooooooooooooooooooooooooW!! Need I say I am laughing my head off??? He didn't even get started & they were going for what 5 minutes? Maybe Mr. Clinton should be Obama's VP.
So the major problems that voters are wanting help with are: 1. the Economy 2. the War 3. Oil Prices/Dependence/Enviroment Issues 4. Health Care
I know I am missing something.
Interesting that the commentator is comparing Obama to Mr. Clinton. (then going and saying there are problems....ahh people make up your minds!) I guess they really liked him because they keep cheering. WooooooooooooooooooooooooooW!! Need I say I am laughing my head off??? He didn't even get started & they were going for what 5 minutes? Maybe Mr. Clinton should be Obama's VP.
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