View Full Version : Bush concedes defeat, disappointed at losses
Satellite Weapon
11-08-2006, 01:03 AM
President George W. Bush, disappointed at the Democrats' seizure of the House of Representatives, will hold a news conference on Wednesday to urge his opponents to work with him, the White House said.The news conference was set for 1 p.m. EST (1800 GMT) in the White House East Room.
"He'll start by congratulating the winners and extend a hand for bipartisan cooperation to work on the issues facing our country. The elections are over but the issues still remain," said White House counselor Dan Bartlett.
http://today.*******.com/news
White House spokesman Tony Snow said the outcome of the elections, in which Democrats were projected to win control of the House and pick up several Senate seats, was "not what we would've hoped."
"But it also gets us to a point: Democrats have spent a lot of time complaining about what the president has done. This is an opportunity for them to kind of stand up," Snow said.
Bush, whose Iraq policy was a key factor in the elections, had dinner with top aides and close friends Brad Freeman and Don Evans, the former commerce secretary, and watched the election returns on television in the White House residence.
He was told formally by his top political adviser, Karl Rove, that the House had gone to the Democrats.
It was described as a businesslike environment with aides thumbing messages into their blackberries to keep track of developments.
"We were very clear about this election," Bartlett said. "We thought we had a good game plan, good candidates, but we came up short. But we will be prepared to deal with it."
The bad news came after Bush spent the last five days of the campaign trying to help Republican candidates in 10 states.
"The president has got a very active agenda for the next two years and you're going to need both parties. There has to be a calculated decision by the Democrats," Snow said.
The Democrats won't be able to get anything passed since Bush has a veto and the Demos won't have a veto-proof majority in either house.
That's probably the best situation the country can be in. A government which does nothing does nothing wrong.
williamoforange
11-08-2006, 01:33 AM
That's probably the best situation the country can be in. A government which does nothing does nothing wrong.
i hope you are being sarcastic.
Not at all. As Reagan said:
Government is not the solution to our problem. Government is the problem.
nullterm
11-08-2006, 01:44 AM
People on Wall Street will be happy, close victories means less new regulations for business to deal with allowing them to stick to business as usual.
angry cow
11-08-2006, 02:01 AM
Yeah, with things shaping up the way they are, its doubtful any significant changes will occur, which could be a good thing. EXCEPT of course if you think that maybe policy in Iraq needs a serious re-evaluation and a new direction, either reducing or increasing our involvement.
In which case nothing is likely to happen. Even though it could be a good time to fire (or sack, if you prefer) a certain unpopular cabinet member, and increase troop numbers as the Dems have called for, I bet the rest of the current administrations term will consist of finger pointing.
"I can't make changes in Iraq without congressional approval!"
"We can't make changes in Iraq because the President is in charge of foreign policy!"
All the way till 04 NOV 2008. Just you all wait and see. It's going to be migraine-inducing.
nullterm
11-08-2006, 02:12 AM
angry cow, probably.
Laworkerbee
11-08-2006, 02:13 AM
Not at all. As Reagan said:
Government is not the solution to our problem. Government is the problem.
X2
I'm glad the Dems are gaining some power as having one party in control of everything leads to abuse and rubber stamping without serious debates.
sferrin
11-08-2006, 02:14 AM
All the way till 04 NOV 2008. Just you all wait and see. It's going to be migraine-inducing.
2004 was migraine-inducing. I still get the jitters at the thought of Kerry in the white house. 2008? All I can say is if the dems get the white house what Clinton and Carter did to the military will probably look like a party. (True, equipment is getting the sh!t beat out of it in Iraq but at least they're trying to fund replacements and new. The next dem prez will probably do a Patrick Bateman on it just to show that he CAN.)
a_very_ex_STAB
11-08-2006, 03:03 AM
How can the Amerikan people hate freedom so much?
loganinkosovo
11-08-2006, 03:17 AM
How can the Amerikan people hate freedom so much?
We don't hate freedom, we hate commies. And the DNC has been taken over and is funded by commies now. Most of the rank and file are moderates but not the people running the party.
Pelosi wants us out of Iraq in a year, tops. If that happens you will see the middle east turn into South east asia after we pulled out. Hundreds of Thousands slaughtered by the scum that will take over.
We fought hard to win a foothold in the middle east and they just want to throw it and the sacrifice of our troops away.......nothing changes with them. WE are the enemy to them.
Maybe people will get smart when it's too late and we are being attacked on our own soil over and over again.
God help us if they win the Whitehouse in 2008. With someone like Kerry or the Anti-Christ Ms. Clinton as president we will be turning our country over to the terrorists.
Friendly Fire
11-08-2006, 03:32 AM
Not at all. As Reagan said:
Government is not the solution to our problem. Government is the problem.
Reagan was an actor...
Friendly Fire
11-08-2006, 03:35 AM
Yeah, with things shaping up the way they are, its doubtful any significant changes will occur, which could be a good thing. EXCEPT of course if you think that maybe policy in Iraq needs a serious re-evaluation and a new direction, either reducing or increasing our involvement.
In which case nothing is likely to happen. Even though it could be a good time to fire (or sack, if you prefer) a certain unpopular cabinet member, and increase troop numbers as the Dems have called for, I bet the rest of the current administrations term will consist of finger pointing.
"I can't make changes in Iraq without congressional approval!"
"We can't make changes in Iraq because the President is in charge of foreign policy!"
All the way till 04 NOV 2008. Just you all wait and see. It's going to be migraine-inducing.
StOv, and quoted for truth...welcome in the representative constitutionnal quagmire the western world has always been! Have a seat, you want some pop corn friend...it will get sporty!
@Logan: Ahahahah the new Benny Hill show. Commies? Hilarious.
signatory
11-08-2006, 03:48 AM
..and the president can promise sweet things the country won't actually ratify... Yo Clinton remember the NK and Kyoto deals you signed?
I wonder what Bush will promise now...
a_very_ex_STAB
11-08-2006, 03:50 AM
We don't hate freedom, we hate commies. And the DNC has been taken over and is funded by commies now. Most of the rank and file are moderates but not the people running the party.
Pelosi wants us out of Iraq in a year, tops. If that happens you will see the middle east turn into South east asia after we pulled out. Hundreds of Thousands slaughtered by the scum that will take over.
We fought hard to win a foothold in the middle east and they just want to throw it and the sacrifice of our troops away.......nothing changes with them. WE are the enemy to them.
Maybe people will get smart when it's too late and we are being attacked on our own soil over and over again.
God help us if they win the Whitehouse in 2008. With someone like Kerry or the Anti-Christ Ms. Clinton as president we will be turning our country over to the terrorists.
ROFLMAO rofl
123456
Good tinfoil hat reply - watch out for those black helicopters now
Freedom-Fries
11-08-2006, 03:55 AM
Dems to pick up the Senate ? Democrats won Republican Senate seats in Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Ohio, defeating Sens. Rick Santorum, Mike DeWine and Lincoln Chafee. They came up short in Tennessee as Republican Bob Corker won over Ford. Republican Sen. George Allen and Democratic challenger Jim Webb were tightly locked, Jim Talent and challenger Claire McCaskill are close, Conrad Burns is trailing Democrat Jon Tester.Tester has a 13% lead over Burns in Montana. REPUBLICANS FAIL ON SENATE !!
Cletus Van Damme
11-08-2006, 03:59 AM
The economist had a quite interesting article on this, a study had found that goverment spending growth in the US seems to more dependant on having a divided goverment than any particular party solely in power.
Sir Zach of R.
11-08-2006, 04:02 AM
For a lot of people who actually follow politics and what not, it's not such a matter of what part controls the house, but who controls the parties. Figures like Nancy Pelosi and Hillary Clinton scare the bejesus out of me and a lot of people.
charliepage
11-08-2006, 04:02 AM
They came up short in Tennessee as Republican Bob Corker won over Ford. Republican Sen. George Allen and Democratic challenger Jim Webb were tightly locked, Jim Talent and challenger Claire McCaskill are close, Conrad Burns is trailing Democrat Jon Tester.Tester has a 13% lead over Burns in Montana. REPUBLICANS FAIL ON SENATE !!
1. McCaskill won.
2. Agree with Virginia though the gap has widened to 8300 now, but re-counts who knows how that will take.
3. Whatever poll you read is wrong by an enormous margin. It's 49%-48% Tester at the time of this post with a very small 3600 margin. (which has narrowed all the way when it was a 5%+ game)
rb132
11-08-2006, 04:08 AM
We don't hate freedom, we hate commies. And the DNC has been taken over and is funded by commies now. Most of the rank and file are moderates but not the people running the party.
Most people stopped worrying about communists in america 50+ years ago, i see your mind is still stuck somewhere in between the neanderthal period and the 1960's communist witch hunt in america
Pelosi wants us out of Iraq in a year, tops. If that happens you will see the middle east turn into South east asia after we pulled out. Hundreds of Thousands slaughtered by the scum that will take over.
Hundreds of thousands have already died (46743 iraqi civilians many at the hands of coalition trips and insurgents inspired by the iraq war) not to mention 2837 soldiers who gave their lives for a lie, soldiers who are considered expendable by their government. The presense of coaliton troops has not prevented the killing, what makes you think their continued presense is going to prevent anymore killing? Attacks and deaths have not dropped, they have increased.
We fought hard to win a foothold in the middle east and they just want to throw it and the sacrifice of our troops away.......nothing changes with them. WE are the enemy to them.
Actually you bought your way into the middle east to begin with, propping up police states in Saudi Arabia, Egypt etc and paying rediculous amounts of taxpayer money to Bahrain, Qatar and Oman for them to let you have a base there.
Maybe people will get smart when it's too late and we are being attacked on our own soil over and over again.
The smart people actually realize that America creates its on enemies by interfering in regimes and areas of the world where it has absoultly no understanding of the culture or political climate, Iraq is a classic example.
God help us if they win the Whitehouse in 2008. With someone like Kerry or the Anti-Christ Ms. Clinton as president we will be turning our country over to the terrorists.
An atheist president is probably the only thing which could save the U.S now. Rational conversation has taken a backseat to delusional concepts of reality and religious dogma throughout the history of the United States.
Sir Zach of R.
11-08-2006, 04:13 AM
Most people stopped worrying about communists in america 50+ years ago, i see your mind is still stuck somewhere in between the neanderthal period and the 1960's communist witch hunt in america
Hundreds of thousands have already died (46743 iraqi civilians many at the hands of coalition trips and insurgents inspired by the iraq war) not to mention 2837 soldiers who gave their lives for a lie, soldiers who are considered expendable by their government. The presense of coaliton troops has not prevented the killing, what makes you think their continued presense is going to prevent anymore killing? Attacks and deaths have not dropped, they have increased.
Actually you bought your way into the middle east to begin with, propping up police states in Saudi Arabia, Egypt etc and paying rediculous amounts of taxpayer money to Bahrain, Qatar and Oman for them to let you have a base there.
The smart people actually realize that America creates its on enemies by interfering in regimes and areas of the world where it has absoultly no understanding of the culture or political climate, Iraq is a classic example.
An atheist president is probably the only thing which could save the U.S now. Rational conversation has taken a backseat to delusional concepts of reality and religious dogma throughout the history of the United States.
You're one to talk, Mr. Perth Australia. I'd hardly say an atheist president is the only thing that could save the US. That's irresponsible thinking at its worst.
Most people stopped worrying about communists in america 50+ years ago, i see your mind is still stuck somewhere in between the neanderthal period and the 1960's communist witch hunt in america
Hundreds of thousands have already died (46743 iraqi civilians many at the hands of coalition trips and insurgents inspired by the iraq war) not to mention 2837 soldiers who gave their lives for a lie, soldiers who are considered expendable by their government. The presense of coaliton troops has not prevented the killing, what makes you think their continued presense is going to prevent anymore killing? Attacks and deaths have not dropped, they have increased.
Actually you bought your way into the middle east to begin with, propping up police states in Saudi Arabia, Egypt etc and paying rediculous amounts of taxpayer money to Bahrain, Qatar and Oman for them to let you have a base there.
The smart people actually realize that America creates its on enemies by interfering in regimes and areas of the world where it has absoultly no understanding of the culture or political climate, Iraq is a classic example.
An atheist president is probably the only thing which could save the U.S now. Rational conversation has taken a backseat to delusional concepts of reality and religious dogma throughout the history of the United States.
X2 I happen to share this view except for the idea of an Atheist president being its only savior. Everyone knows Jesus is the only true savior of America.:roll:
Seiyuuki
11-08-2006, 04:36 AM
For a lot of people who actually follow politics and what not, it's not such a matter of what part controls the house, but who controls the parties. Figures like Nancy Pelosi and Hillary Clinton scare the bejesus out of me and a lot of people.If we go more in depth, way more important is the political makeup of the various committees in both chambers. Everything has to go through them.
rb132
11-08-2006, 04:50 AM
You're one to talk, Mr. Perth Australia. I'd hardly say an atheist president is the only thing that could save the US. That's irresponsible thinking at its worst.
If you think having a president who claims to hear the voice of god on a regular basis is a good thing then i guess thats your call, however we on the sane side of life consider such people fit for a visit to the nearest psychiatrist.
Feel free to join us sanies' at any time. :)
Everyone get some popcorn and get comfortable this out to be entertaining.
Freedom-Fries
11-08-2006, 05:01 AM
1. McCaskill won.
2. Agree with Virginia though the gap has widened to 8300 now, but re-counts who knows how that will take.
3. Whatever poll you read is wrong by an enormous margin. It's 49%-48% Tester at the time of this post with a very small 3600 margin. (which has narrowed all the way when it was a 5%+ game)
Sorry, you are correct re-counts are possible and Talent eventually conceded defeat to McCaskill
XShipRider
11-08-2006, 05:15 AM
I wonder if Republicans throughout the nation will be seeking therapy
as the Democrats did when Bush was re-elected.
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi will show she's just as corrupt as the
last guy. Watch and see.
Superking
11-08-2006, 05:23 AM
If you think having a president who claims to hear the voice of god on a regular basis is a good thing then i guess thats your call, however we on the sane side of life consider such people fit for a visit to the nearest psychiatrist.
Feel free to join us sanies' at any time. :)
"sanies'" in politics:
Fidel Castro
Mao Tse-tung
Joseph Stalin
rb132
11-08-2006, 05:29 AM
"sanies'" in politics:
Fidel Castro
Mao Tse-tung
Joseph Stalin
i dont remember ever suggesting those people were sane or good leaders
oh hang on i must of, because if i dont support bush that means im a pinko/commie/leftie/enemy of the state/terrorist/eligible for torture etc
:roll:
a_very_ex_STAB
11-08-2006, 05:35 AM
"sanies'" in politics:
Fidel Castro
Mao Tse-tung
Joseph Stalin
So you think it's a good thing to sheepishly follow leaders who have 'imaginary friends' then :roll:
Son of Damian
11-08-2006, 06:09 AM
Everyone get some popcorn and get comfortable this out to be entertaining.
X10 :)
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi will show she's just as corrupt as the
last guy. Watch and see.
They're all corrupt, both parties, but neither party is going to enact legislation to do anything about, not with all the free 5 star treatment they get from corperations that want something done. :-(
If you ask me the only thing the Dems will be able to do is raise the minimum wage and maybe universal health care, anything else will be vetoed.
Friendly Fire
11-08-2006, 06:13 AM
You're one to talk, Mr. Perth Australia. I'd hardly say an atheist president is the only thing that could save the US. That's irresponsible thinking at its worst.
SAnies...
Koba Stalin was a seminary student, Mao went to tarot consultation and had a personnal Zen temple, Fidel has been christened.
All these people were opportunists just like the entire Political cast in the US.
Sad to be a voter over there, but hey here in Evil Yrup it ain't no better!
Stabwoot.
Buckeye67
11-08-2006, 06:24 AM
Like Hilary Clinton who (says she) talks to Eleanor Roosevelt, or Bill Clinton who (says he) talks to Thomas Jefferson?
They're all retards, the lot of them.
Saranof
11-08-2006, 06:26 AM
We don't hate freedom, we hate commies. And the DNC has been taken over and is funded by commies now.
rofl rofl rofl
The democrats are much further right than any of our parties, and only one of ours can be considered "commie". Either you need to read Das Kapital a few more times, or you need to stop calling everything un-republican "commie". It just sounds stupid.
XShipRider
11-08-2006, 06:37 AM
To keep it in perspective, Bill Clinton had to deal with a Republican
controlled Congress. The proverbial shoe is on the opposite foot now.
Superking
11-08-2006, 06:53 AM
i dont remember ever suggesting those people were sane or good leaders
oh hang on i must of, because if i dont support bush that means im a pinko/commie/leftie/enemy of the state/terrorist/eligible for torture etc
:roll:
it was aimed at the atheist president = world savior comment....it was not a suggestion on your political compass.
rb132
11-08-2006, 07:19 AM
and believing in god will make somebody a moral person and thus a good president?
I think Dubya has well and truly dispelled that myth
tyovan
11-08-2006, 07:35 AM
"He'll start by congratulating the winners and extend a hand for bipartisan cooperation to work on the issues facing our country. The elections are over but the issues still remain," said White House counselor Dan Bartlett.
King Geogre IV has spent the last 6 years doing whatever he wants - well, those days are over...
Satellite Weapon
11-08-2006, 07:56 AM
and believing in god will make somebody a moral person and thus a good president?
I think Dubya has well and truly dispelled that myth
Says who ? Are you talking about John DiIulio, Joseph Wilson, Richard Clarke, Jack Spadaro, Jessica Lynch, James Hansen, Richard Foster ? Hans Blix, Clare Short, McCain, Pentagon IG, the UN, Joe Lieberman ? CA Legislature Greenspan, Martin Sheen, Susan Sarandon, Amy Goodman, Kofi Annan, Paul O'Neill, Anthony Zinni, Eric Shinseki, Bruce Bartlett, Jim Webb?...all these people or groups must be either pinko commies or even worse they are Arabs, Bush-Jnr is the most moral person in America.
Superking
11-08-2006, 08:01 AM
and believing in god will make somebody a moral person and thus a good president?
I think Dubya has well and truly dispelled that myth
I belive you are confused, it was you who stated that the US only salvation was an atheist president, i merely pointed out that ones religion does not make them better or worse as leaders.....you on the other hand did,
"and believing in god will make somebody a moral person and thus a good president?"
But not beliving does right? :roll:
usa320
11-08-2006, 08:17 AM
For a lot of people who actually follow politics and what not, it's not such a matter of what part controls the house, but who controls the parties. Figures like Nancy Pelosi and Hillary Clinton scare the bejesus out of me and a lot of people.
x2.
I hate bitches. I hate bitches in power even more.
signatory
11-08-2006, 08:22 AM
x2.
I hate bitches. I hate bitches in power even more.
Looking at your avatar and reading this is teh pure gold p-)
askDNA
11-08-2006, 08:22 AM
At least California rejected that new oil tax
Durandal
11-08-2006, 08:28 AM
The Democrats won't be able to get anything passed since Bush has a veto and the Demos won't have a veto-proof majority in either house.
That's probably the best situation the country can be in. A government which does nothing does nothing wrong.
All too true. Too bad we didn't have this sort of set-up 5 years ago.
dj_1911
11-08-2006, 08:29 AM
I think Democrats taking the house is the best thing that could have happened. I'm a hardcore conservative, but I'm very unhappy with the way Bush has handled some things (eg. illegal immigration, pork barrel spending). Maybe this will shake him to his senses and make him realize he needs too take some serious action before the 08 elections.
gaijinsamurai
11-08-2006, 08:43 AM
Anybody know how the Virginia Senate race is going? I hope Webb wins.
All too true. Too bad we didn't have this sort of set-up 5 years ago.
I think it worked out fine actually. With a Democratic senate for the last 5 years we wouldn't have Roberts and Alito on the SC. We would have been stuck with another liberal activist. That's what really counts in my opinion.
Satellite Weapon
11-08-2006, 08:52 AM
Howard Dean Speaks
http://static.flickr.com/122/292274472_a06c078a60_m.jpg
"Together America will be stronger. Together we will move America in a new direction.
http://www.cnsnews.com/news/viewstory.asp?Page=/Nation/archive/200611/NAT20061108a.html
"We're finally beginning to become a national party again after 12 years"
They told you it was a fool's purchase.You didn't listen to them. No matter how today turns out you have a Democratic office in every state in almost every county or Congressional district. Bush is chasing down votes in Nebraska and Kansas for crying outloud and hiding out in Montana to do telecasts.
The outcome in the Senate, where Democrats must take six of the 33 seats up for grabs, was less certain and hinged on tight races in Missouri, Montana, Tennessee and Virginia.
"I think we can do that, but it's tough," said Howard Dean
"Today the American people sent a clear message for a new direction. Voting for hope and opportunity, they rejected the Republican culture of corruption and the politics of fear and smear.
http://releases.usnewswire.com/GetRelease.asp?id=75898
rb132
11-08-2006, 08:52 AM
I belive you are confused, it was you who stated that the US only salvation was an atheist president, i merely pointed out that ones religion does not make them better or worse as leaders.....you on the other hand did,
"and believing in god will make somebody a moral person and thus a good president?"
But not beliving does right? :roll:
Belief (in god) is mear faith, faith is to believe something for the sake of believing it because something or someone told you 'thats the way it is' without doing any sort of investigation to uncover evidence to support a theory. Therefore you have a president who believes things because others told him, in charge of lethal weapons which could threaten the entire species.
Someone who is not willing to believe things, but willing to investigate the matter and only accept it as a suggested truth if any evidence is bought forth (such as antheist) is much more capable of being in charge of the U.S's military power.
A person, such as George W, with an inflexible position on a particular description of reality which is based upon a book full of fables, fairy tales, violence, bigotry and approval of the use of slaves to serve their Christians masters should never be allowed to be in charge of something as important as the U.S military.
Durandal
11-08-2006, 08:55 AM
I think it worked out fine actually. With a Democratic senate for the last 5 years we wouldn't have Roberts and Alito on the SC. We would have been stuck with another liberal activist. That's what really counts in my opinion.
Would of, could of, should of....
Listen the Supreme Court is broken because we put activist judges Liberal and Conservative. Roberts and Alito replaced a pretty Conservative judge and a middle roader that thought with some common sense rather than a party line.
Why is it so? Because we tolerated the House and Senate saying, "Hey, we don't need a unanimous vote to get a Supreme Court judge nominated." Now all we need is 2/3....now all we need is a simply majority...
And thus, we get "activist judges", whatever that actually means, I just define it as someone not liking a judge's decision and labeling them something just to label them.
You get a judge on a court that views the Constitutionality of laws, not party politics. You got a judge everyone approved on regardless of wether you were a Whig or a Federalist and that was that.
Nowadays...its simply silly.
"Activist" judges...come on man, you can do better than that silly label.
I don't think the court is broken at all. I'm quite happy with the current arrangement.
If the public votes in a conservative president and conservative senate, they pretty much greenlight a conservative court. If they choose a liberal senate and a liberal president, they're asking for a liberal court.
"Together America will be stronger. Together we will move America in a new direction."
Is Howard Dean under some illusion that Republicans will be willing to work with Democrats any more than his party was willing to work with Republicans?
Get real. The country is polarized, this election didn't change that.
Durandal
11-08-2006, 09:18 AM
I don't think the court is broken at all. I'm quite happy with the current arrangement.
If the public votes in a conservative president and conservative senate, they pretty much greenlight a conservative court. If they choose a liberal senate and a liberal president, they're asking for a liberal court.
Except the court is supposed to be a neutral LEGAL entity that rules strictly on the Constitutionality of a law passed by Executive and Legislative Branches. There is a REASON our VERY wise founding fathers made nomination to the court a unanimous process.
Here is the problem. The government was built to have a bloodless revolution every 2 to 4 years and be able to handle massive swings in the political wind with one body of the government staying pretty apolitical, and that was the Supreme Court.
The government was designed to give MOST of the power to the majority with certain checks and balances thrown in to protect the minority. THe courts are one of these things. It should be neither liberal or conservative. It should be picked on its balanced views and strict constitutional interpretations and that is what we USED to have. If you require a unanimous vote for such an important life long position that everyone should be in support of the person, which meant, people were not politically slanted one or the other depending on who was in power. They would have never gotten them approved for the bench.
And we have Republicans a couple years back suggesting we should just use a simple majority. You want to see checks and balances go down the drain, well, there you go. Absolute Power corrupts absolutely. This government was not designed to be managed by a single party. It fails at this point because there are no real checks and balances and anything goes.
And THAT is not what any of us want, trust me.
It should be picked on its balanced views and strict constitutional interpretations and that is what we USED to have.
That's what we got in Roberts and Alito, hopefully. The system works fine.
I don't think the government fails due to a lack of checks and balances. I think it fails because it is government and that's what government does no matter who is in power.
bugkill
11-08-2006, 10:01 AM
i can assure you that the dems are kicking themselves in the ass for dissing joe lieberman. if the republicans holds on to one of these races for the senate, the lieberman issue would be the reason why the dems did not seize control.
honestly, if the dems do not take the senate, this election would go down as a failure for them. not a complete failure because they got the house, but a failure none the less. oh yeah, there will be spin about how close they got, but with all the bad press the republicans got and bush's approval numbers in the dumps, they should have won this in a landslide.
the republicans DESERVED to lose because they were the party that looked the most in disarray. people talk about the war, but i think the war is not the main reason. it is the republicans (and the president's) lack of making the people understand why we need to stay there, mainly because they used political talking points to describe it. then the republicans started to eat their own, which does nothing but hurt their whole party.
i'm not really concerned about the dems winning. i don't like their political party (or the republicans as a whole), but the country will not fall off into the ocean with them being in power.
Satellite Weapon
11-08-2006, 10:48 AM
Anybody know how the Virginia Senate race is going? I hope Webb wins.
Jim Webb may have won by 5,000 votes and another close call Tester leads by 2,000 votes.
http://augusta.redjupiter.com/images/augustafreepress/jameswebbheadshot.jpg
http://www.augustafreepress.com/election
http://www.pensitoreview.com/images/photo-jon-tester.jpg
http://www.pensitoreview.com/
Expect a re-count in Virginia and Montana for the Senate and will Sanders or Lieberman will caucus with the Democrats ?
dangerclose
11-08-2006, 10:50 AM
So you think it's a good thing to sheepishly follow leaders who have 'imaginary friends' then :roll:
This is a warning for your insulting tone towards Christianity. Keep it up and you will be banned.
Just keeping it consistent.
dangerclose
11-08-2006, 10:53 AM
Terrorists around the world agree with the American voters. We needed change.
Charles Rangel will be writing tax law now. There goes the booming economy.
Instead of celebrating the fact that democracy works, some here seem hell bent on perpetuating a losing policy of divide and conquer with peripheral wedge issues, which the electorate has soundly rejected. America's political success has always been built on checks and balances and bipartisanship, something the Republican base seemingly has forgotten.
From reading some of the comments on MP.net from Bush supporters, the line has already been drawn in the sand even before the Democrats take over the House and possibly the Senate. Already Bu****es are trumpeting the use of the veto and slash and burn tactics instead of working together for the common good. In one day, Republican Party hacks have gone from saying they would hold on to saying the results were expected in a mid-term election (despite the fact that several Presidents did not lose seats in the past).
One would think that the extreme right wing of the Republican party has learned a lesson. Bush and Rove appealed to his conservative base and decided early on to ignore the middle and were rejected by the electorate. The wave of Democrat victories is even more astounding when you realize that the victories were in gerrymandered "safe" districts. It also proves that the political capital Bush stated he had in 2004 was all in his mind because he was elected by a slim margin that year and in 2000 lost the popular vote; yet, he decided to rule like a potentate claiming he had a mandate.
I can only hope that both parties will work together and fulfill the American dream for one and all and that this country can once again become a beacon of freedom and hope for the rest of the world instead being despised and hated.
The electorate rejected a Republican congress which did not do as they promised. That's not the same as saying the electorate supports the Democrats' positions.
I think gridlock is just about the best thing that can come out of a bad situation. I welcome it. It will force the Republicans to return to the principles which got them elected in '94 in the first place.
dangerclose
11-08-2006, 11:11 AM
I can only hope that both parties will work together and fulfill the American dream for one and all and that this country can once again become a beacon of freedom and hope for the rest of the world instead being despised and hated.
I'd like to buy the world a Coke and keep it company.
Yeah we'll be a beacon of freedom and hope as we abandon those who stuck their necks out for us.
Anybody know how the Virginia Senate race is going? I hope Webb wins.
Dude, they'll be recounting that stuff for the next 30 days. Personally I'm pretty indifferent over who wins. Allen is a jerk, and I know next to nothing about Webb. Congress will continue being Congress regardless of who's in the majority.
Laconian
11-08-2006, 11:16 AM
Durandal, XASA (nice to see you back) good posts. It was an election. Some win some lose. With the sway in seats, I guess we don't need term limits after all.
The US is one country. The dems and reps need to find a way for 2 parties to run one country successfully, based on our Constitutional principles. Don't think it will happen in my lifetime...
Dude, they'll be recounting that stuff for the next 30 days. Personally I'm pretty indifferent over who wins. Allen is a jerk, and I know next to nothing about Webb. Congress will continue being Congress regardless of who's in the majority.
Allen's a racist, goober-looking yokel. Webb's a smug-looking perv who walks around acting like David Caruso thinking his **** doesn't stink.
What a choice.
sferrin
11-08-2006, 11:17 AM
How can the Amerikan people hate freedom so much?
WTF are you talking about?
sferrin
11-08-2006, 11:19 AM
Reagan was an actor...
So was Arnold. Guess that means he sucked at bodybuilding huh? :roll:
martinexsquaddie
11-08-2006, 11:19 AM
i.e. voted for the communist freedom hating democrats who I belive eat babies as well and don't like moms apple pie either :)
Allen's a racist, goober-looking yokel. Webb's a smug-looking perv who walks around acting like David Caruso thinking his **** doesn't stink.
What a choice.
David Carusorofl
I think that's where my dislike of him stems from.
Anyway, "What a choice" is right. Even if I had been registered, I don't think I would've voted for either one.
i.e. voted for the communist freedom hating democrats who I belive eat babies as well and don't like moms apple pie either :)
and baseball!
Clarsachier
11-08-2006, 11:44 AM
control of the Senate, the Dems won't be able to reverse Bush's policies. But
anyway, the Repubs are going to love Nancy Pelosi!woot
lightcav
11-08-2006, 11:45 AM
To all those that are scared to death of Democrats. Relax.
Democrats are American citizens that love the US and the US military just as much as Republicans. The only difference is that Democrats are the smart Americans. It's been statistically proven that more intelligent and better educated people follow slightly liberal Democratic beliefs. Wouldn't you rather have a smart person making decisions rather than a stupid one? Makes sense to me.
The reason why a lot of people don't understand Democrats is because they're not educated enough to understand what their talking about. Many people don't know anything about basic World History and Economics. Thats a pretty big handicap because those two subjects probably have the biggest influence on our lives today. So how are you suppossed to know if something good is being done if you don't know the difference between good and bad?
Ah lightcav, I'm glad to see you back. Always good for a laugh.
lightcav
11-08-2006, 11:55 AM
Thanks. I love this website becuase I am a military buff but sometimes the conservative rabble gets so loud I have to represent the "crazy" democrats since there are so many crazy republicans here.
Hunterhr
11-08-2006, 12:01 PM
Democrats are American citizens that love the US and the US military just as much as Republicans.
Might want to let Nancy Pelosi know that.
Thanks. I love this website becuase I am a military buff but sometimes the conservative rabble gets so loud I have to represent the "crazy" democrats since there are so many crazy republicans here.
Well you're certainly welcome, but I think you missed the latter portion of my post.p-)
That aside, I don't think much will change in Congress, aside from it being more shrill and obnoxious than usual. But then again, I'm kind of an optimist.:cantbeli:
Either way, it's going to be a fun 2 years. I think I'll stick to ESPN.
lightcav
11-08-2006, 12:10 PM
Might want to let Nancy Pelosi know that.
don't believe all the conservative propaganda about how Democrats are anti-military. I haven't heard Pelosi say anything anti-military. It is ridiculous to assume that just because someone is a liberal doesn't mean they don't support the military.
I don't know exacty what Pelosi has said about the military but I know that every American regardless of political affiliation greatly respects the men and women that serve our country in the armed forces. As a democrat myself I think that if you really do love and respect your military you would not want to put them in harms way unless absolutely necessary and I'm afraid that the war in Iraq was not absolutely necessary.
Hunterhr
11-08-2006, 12:12 PM
That aside, I don't think much will change in Congress, aside from it being more shrill and obnoxious than usual.
The obvious answer is to remove women from congress.
don't believe all the conservative propaganda about how Democrats are anti-military. I haven't heard Pelosi say anything anti-military. It is ridiculous to assume that just because someone is a liberal doesn't mean they don't support the military.
What propaganda? Every other post on Democratic Underground that deals with the actions of U.S troops either alleges them to be Nazis, baby killers or mentally deranged.
It's the other way around. Currently it's politically expedient to support the troops, and the democrats aren't idiots.
mas-36
11-08-2006, 12:13 PM
Perhaps someone can help me here. I cannot remember which state, or for which position (house or senate, maye governor?) but there is this woman who is an Iraq war veteran who lost both of her legs when she was shot down while in her helicopter. She was running for office as a democrat. How did she do??
I know that every American regardless of political affiliation greatly respects the men and women that serve our country in the armed forces.
Well I hate to burst your bubble but you are flat wrong.
Perhaps someone can help me here. I cannot remember which state, or for which position (house or senate, maye governor?) but there is this woman who is an Iraq war veteran who lost both of her legs when she was shot down while in her helicopter. She was running for office as a democrat. How did she do??
Tammy Duckworth in Illinois, she lost.
She lost mainly because she was an outsider who was supported mainly by the national democratic party who paid for nearly her entire campaign and she ran against a local conservative boy in a mostly conservative district.
lightcav
11-08-2006, 12:17 PM
Well I hate to burst your bubble but you are flat wrong.
i hate to burst YOUR bubble but YOU are flat wrong!
i hate to burst YOUR bubble but YOU are flat wrong!
I'm sure all those leftists who hold up signs saying "we love our soldiers who frag their officers" just LOOOOOVE the military.
Or those Westboro morons for another example.
Are you saying they all respect the military?
i hate to burst YOUR bubble but YOU are flat wrong!
Prove it.
123456789
lightcav
11-08-2006, 12:19 PM
Tammy Duckworth in Illinois, she lost.
She lost mainly because she was an outsider who was supported mainly by the national democratic party who paid for nearly her entire campaign and she ran against a local conservative boy in a mostly conservative district.
So much for conservative republican so called "troop supporters" actually putting their money where their mouth is. How can they call themselves supporters of the military and then not vote for a disabled Iraq war veteran. Posers.
lightcav
11-08-2006, 12:22 PM
I'm sure all those leftists who hold up signs saying "we love our soldiers who frag their officers" just LOOOOOVE the military.
Or those Westboro morons for another example.
Are you saying they all respect the military?
What about the actual members of the military who are doing the fragging? Besides I've never seen anybody waving a sign like that. Another example of conservative nonsense.
So much for conservative republican so called "troop supporters" actually putting their money where their mouth is. How can they call themselves supporters of the military and then not vote for a disabled Iraq war veteran. Posers.
Way to read the reasons Sherlock.
By the way, Illinois did elect a veteran in another district, his name is Mark Kirk.
lightcav
11-08-2006, 12:23 PM
Prove it.
123456789
Its not worth my time
lightcav
11-08-2006, 12:24 PM
Way to read the reasons Sherlock.
By the way, Illinois did elect a veteran in another district, his name is Mark Kirk.
In another district. That really helps her out!
Hunterhr
11-08-2006, 12:24 PM
i hate to burst YOUR bubble but YOU are flat wrong!
http://www.thestudentunderground.org/images/articles/104.jpg
Feel the love.
Do a search for 'vandalism' and 'army recruiters', should be fun.
http://charmaineyoest.com/uploads/****thearmy.jpg
Besides I've never seen anybody waving a sign like that. Another example of conservative nonsense.
I know you're just having a laugh but in case anyone actually believes you:
Hiroshima
11-08-2006, 12:26 PM
...I know next to nothing about Webb.
Let's see....
Jim Webb:
Military Service:
First in his class of 243 at the Marine Corps Officer's Basic School in Quantico, Virginia, Jim served with the Fifth Marine Regiment in Vietnam, where as a rifle platoon and company commander in the infamous An Hoa Basin west of Danang he was awarded the Navy Cross, the Silver Star Medal, two Bronze Star Medals, and two Purple Hearts. He later served as a platoon commander and as an instructor in tactics and weapons at Marine Corps Officer Candidates School, and then as a member of the Secretary of the Navy's immediate staff, before leaving the Marine Corps in 1972.
Government Experience:
In government, Jim served in the U.S. Congress as counsel to the House Committee on Veterans Affairs from l977 to l98l, becoming the first Vietnam veteran to serve as a full committee counsel in the Congress. In 1982 he first proposed, then led the fight for, including an African American soldier in the memorial statue that now graces the Vietnam Veterans memorial on the National Mall. In 1984 he was appointed the inaugural Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs, where he traveled extensively in, and worked closely with, our NATO allies. As the Assistant Secretary he directed considerable research and analysis of the U.S. military's mobilization capabilities. In 1987 he became the first Naval Academy graduate in history to serve in the military and later be appointed Secretary of the Navy. He resigned as Naval Secretary in 1988 after refusing to agree to a reduction of the Navy's force structure during congressionally-mandated budget cutting.
http://www.webbforsenate.com/biography/
http://www.jameswebb.com/
Let's see....
Jim Webb:
Military Service:
Government Experience:
http://www.webbforsenate.com/biography/
http://www.jameswebb.com/
Gee thanks, I'm gonna run out and vote for him right now!
Hiroshima
11-08-2006, 12:28 PM
Just trying to be helpful. :D
Its not worth my time
This is why I love you.
Gee thanks, I'm gonna run out and vote for him right now!
If he were running in Chicago, you still could.
Hiroshima
11-08-2006, 12:29 PM
They're still doing polls there?
They're still doing polls there?
Depends on who you know...and who you're voting for.
Fargin
11-08-2006, 12:30 PM
She was running for office as a democrat. How did she do??
Couldn't we use a more appropriate word than running?
lightcav
11-08-2006, 12:30 PM
I have no illusions about the military. My grandfather was in the 1st Marine Division in WWII and earned two purple hearts and a bronze star. My father was a Vietnam veteran and served two tours to vietnam was classified 100% disable from PTSD and Cancer from exposure to agent orange and died at age 54 because of It. My other Grandfather was in WWI luckily he arrived in france on Armistace day or he probably would have been killed. And I have a laudry list of uncles who served in Korea and Vietnam.
So I support the military but I'm not some hothead flag waver ready to jump into the military because some big shot politician says the support me. Hell yeah Bush is a big "supporter" of the military better you die then his kids.
Hunterhr
11-08-2006, 12:30 PM
They're still doing polls there?
Hell, he could be dead and he could still vote if he were in Chicago...
I have no illusions about the military. My grandfather was in the 1st Marine Division in WWII and earned two purple hearts and a bronze star. My father was a Vietnam veteran and served two tours to vietnam was classified 100% disable from PTSD and Cancer from exposure to agent orange and died at age 54 because of It. My other Grandfather was in WWI luckily he arrived in france on Armistace day or he probably would have been killed. And I have a laudry list of uncles who served in Korea and Vietnam.
So I support the military but I'm not some hothead flag waver ready to jump into the military because some big shot politician says the support me. Hell yeah Bush is a big "supporter" of the military better you die then his kids.
Touching. But nothing to do with overall democratic love of the military.
Just trying to be helpful. :D
I'll admit that's an impressive record. Now if he just didn't look like David Caruso.p-)
I don't want little Barbara to die. She's pretty cute.
lightcav
11-08-2006, 12:31 PM
This is why I love you.
Thanks again so many compliments today.
Hiroshima
11-08-2006, 12:32 PM
Heh... The Political Machine at work again then. Good to see some traditions don't die.
Hiroshima
11-08-2006, 12:34 PM
I'll admit that's an impressive record. Now if he just didn't look like David Caruso.p-)
It is. And the fact that he has previous experience in not only in the veterans committee but also as secretary of the navy under Regan is a big bonus.
NewsMan
11-08-2006, 12:36 PM
The Democrats won't be able to get anything passed since Bush has a veto and the Demos won't have a veto-proof majority in either house.
It will force the administration to come to the table. Bush talked about his "mandate"... well, another one has been announced. If Bush doesn't work with the Dems, he'll further cripple the GOP.
Also, Get ready for some oversight committees. What we know about Iraq and Haliburton has just been scratched, in my opinion.
lightcav
11-08-2006, 12:36 PM
Hell, he could be dead and he could still vote if he were in Chicago...
Touching. But nothing to do with overall democratic love of the military.
My point is you can't judge a book by its cover. Just because someone is a Democrat doesn't mean they don't support the military. That is just some conservative propoganda that the GOP wants you to believe so that you vote for them. Duh.
It is. And the fact that he has previous experience in not only in the veterans committee but also as secretary of the navy under Regan is a big bonus.
Why? Are we launching an amphibious assault on Grenada?
Whatever Webb has done in the past is great, it truly is. Like other veterans he has my respect for his military service, but, that's no longer his position.
Webb is now a Washington politician with all the baggage that brings.
Frankly I have no idea why someone would want to ruin a great reputation by going to Washington. It's not like he'll actually make a difference as the junior senator from Virginia in a party dominated by the Kennedy-Kerry types.
Hunterhr
11-08-2006, 12:40 PM
My point is you can't judge a book by its cover. Just because someone is a Democrat doesn't mean they don't support the military. That is just some conservative propoganda that the GOP wants you to believe so that you vote for them. Duh.
Of course things vary from individual, I don't toe enough party lines so I'm a registered Independant.
If you're on a military website, then I doubt you're going to hold much vitriol for the military. Not everyone is filled with love for the military, more of them happen to be democrat than republican, that's just the way it goes.
Go to a democratic/progressive forum and do some military related searches. Go to a republican/conservative forum and do some military related searches.
Compare and enjoy.
It will force the administration to come to the table. Bush talked about his "mandate"... well, another one has been announced. If Bush doesn't work with the Dems, he'll further cripple the GOP.
Also, Get ready for some oversight committees. What we know about Iraq and Haliburton has just been scratched, in my opinion.
Bush doesn't have to do anything but stick by his principles. The vote was not FOR democrat policies, it was against a bunch of crooked Republicans.
But I agree, the witch hunts will commence.
Hiroshima
11-08-2006, 12:44 PM
Jobu, just because he's a junior senator doesn't mean he can get things done. If you keep his track record in mind, the man obviously has the balls enough and the tenacity to do anything he sets his mind to.
As for the political parties for Hunter, it's pretty much the Guns or Butter stuff all over again.
lightcav
11-08-2006, 12:44 PM
Bush doesn't have to do anything but stick by his principles. The vote was not FOR democrat policies, it was against a bunch of crooked Republicans.
But I agree, the witch hunts will commence.
And well they should. If there has been wrong done to the american people they those responsible should held to account and we should make an example of them to discourage any thought of wrongdoing in the future.
Hiroshima
11-08-2006, 12:45 PM
Bush doesn't have to do anything but stick by his principles. The vote was not FOR democrat policies, it was against a bunch of crooked Republicans.
But I agree, the witch hunts will commence.
Heck, 3 of the seats vacated due to scandle went to the Democrats as pickups.
Jobu, just because he's a junior senator doesn't mean he can get things done. If you keep his track record in mind, the man obviously has the balls enough and the tenacity to do anything he sets his mind to.
That's not how it works in Washington.
Heck, 3 of the seats vacated due to scandle went to the Democrats as pickups.
That only proves my point further.
Hiroshima
11-08-2006, 12:49 PM
That's not how it works in Washington.
And you'd know this how?
ibstolidude
11-08-2006, 12:57 PM
My point is you can't judge a book by its cover. Just because someone is a Democrat doesn't mean they don't support the military.
I certainly agree with this part...one of the officers, whom I know very well - and one whom I most respected will likely win a state senate seat. He is a multiple time over veteran, highly intelligent, well educated, and...gasp..religious - he is also a Democrat.
....the propoganda part - not so much, it is the same politics both parties play. Lest as a Republican, I am unable to care for domestic social issues - which is crap.
I'd like to buy the world a Coke and keep it company.
Yeah we'll be a beacon of freedom and hope as we abandon those who stuck their necks out for us.
Better to buy the world a Coke spiked with freedom and hope than to continue to drink the Kool Aid poisoned by hate of your fellow Americans because they disagree with you politically as the extreme right wing of the Republican party seems to be intent on doing.
Two thirds of Americans find fault with the execution of the Iraqi War, most of the Western World thinks we have lost our moral compass, we've alienated the Muslim world because the extreme right has demonized their religion and the "Axis of Evil" has been empowered by the current administration's failed policy in Iraq, and all you can do is quote an old television commercial to back your spurious assumption that the Democrats will leave our supporters out on a limb. The last time that happen was when Bush I didn't support the Kurds and Shia during Desert Storm. The time before that was when Ford left the Vietnamese government high and dry when we boogied out of Saigon. Need I remind you they were both Republicans.
So far as I'm concerned, the Iraqis can form a circular firing squad and have at it rather than seeing one more Coalition serviceman or servicewoman die because of political incompetence that borders on treason.
If Truman, Eisenhower, Reagan and Clinton could work with the opposition, I'm hoping Bush can, too. Rumsfeld resignation is hopefully the first step towards Americans reconciling, although I'm sure some of the Base will use his resignation to spew more hate.
sferrin
11-08-2006, 01:27 PM
To all those that are scared to death of Democrats. Relax.
Democrats are American citizens that love the US and the US military just as much as Republicans.
Yeah we saw how much Carter and Clinton loved the military.
sferrin
11-08-2006, 01:29 PM
don't believe all the conservative propaganda about how Democrats are anti-military. I haven't heard Pelosi say anything anti-military. It is ridiculous to assume that just because someone is a liberal doesn't mean they don't support the military.
I don't know exacty what Pelosi has said about the military but I know that every American regardless of political affiliation greatly respects the men and women that serve our country in the armed forces.
Yeah, especially Kerry.
Hiroshima
11-08-2006, 01:29 PM
Guns or Butter, Sferrin, Guns or Butter.
ElHombre
11-08-2006, 01:44 PM
So conservatives stick our troops out ion the middle of a hostile population made even more hostile by decisions made by conservatives and to top it all off, don't provide a plan, numbers, or equipment to the troops. The rest of the country thinks that is not a good idea and want to change it.
And conservatives are supposed to be better for the troops how exactly?*
*well, they have been good for the business end of the military, I admit.
It will force the administration to come to the table. Bush talked about his "mandate"... well, another one has been announced. If Bush doesn't work with the Dems, he'll further cripple the GOP.
Also, Get ready for some oversight committees. What we know about Iraq and Haliburton has just been scratched, in my opinion.
Oversight of the Executive Branch. What a concept. A pity the Republicans didn't do that while they were in charge. Of course, that's the big reason they're not going to be in charge anymore.
Zoomie
11-08-2006, 02:00 PM
I'm still waiting to hear about those damn Diebold voting machines that Pelosi was bitching about before the elections. p-)
Secret Squirrel
11-08-2006, 02:04 PM
It will force the administration to come to the table. Bush talked about his "mandate"... well, another one has been announced. If Bush doesn't work with the Dems, he'll further cripple the GOP.
Yep. He could use the last two years of his time in office to futher screw up the GOP. But I honestly dont think that even he's that stupid....well who knows.:D
Also, Get ready for some oversight committees. What we know about Iraq and Haliburton has just been scratched, in my opinion.
Cant wait.:)
Hiroshima
11-08-2006, 02:08 PM
I'm still waiting to hear about those damn Diebold voting machines that Pelosi was bitching about before the elections. p-)
The Company
http://www.diebold.com/
The Voting Machines
http://www.diebold.com/dieboldes/
Point by Point response to HBO Documentary (Hacking Democracy):
http://www.diebold.com/dieboldes/pdf/hbopointbypoint.pdf
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fargo
11-08-2006, 02:32 PM
Rummys gone....
ElHombre
11-08-2006, 02:44 PM
Democrat Tester was just declared the winner of the Montana Senate seat.
USGRANT64
11-08-2006, 02:45 PM
The Democrats won't be able to get anything passed since Bush has a veto and the Demos won't have a veto-proof majority in either house.
That's probably the best situation the country can be in. A government which does nothing does nothing wrong.
That's the ideal system. The cancel each other out.
And you'd know this how?
Plenty of experience with Washington. I spent time working there. A junior senator like Webb has 0 chance of setting any agenda for the nation. The party leaders do that and they do it according to who owes who a favor, who voted with who last time, whose turn it is, etc.
Webb has no seniority. If he stands up to the Kerry-Kennedy crowd all he will do is ensure that the people who got him the office (the DNC and their money) will hang him out to dry next cycle.
That's how it works in Washington. Webb has to play along and vote for the leadership's bills and then later on down the line when it's his turn, he can get something he wants.
That's the ideal system. The cancel each other out.
That's what I said a few pages back.
signatory
11-08-2006, 03:23 PM
No one really cares but here's the Nordic reaction :
04:42 PM, November 8th 2006 - Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen said he hoped US President George W Bush and the new line- up in the United States Congress would be able to find "common ground," Rasmussen said Tuesday.
"I hope that the president and congress under the new circumstances can find common ground regarding Iraq and Afghanistan. The world needs the United States to be decisive and resolute," Rasmussen said after the Democratic Party won control of the House of Representatives.
The Danish premier, whose country has contributed troops to both Iraq and Afghanistan, said it was too early to predict how the election would affect the US stance on Iraq.
Swedish Foreign Minister Carl Bildt said the result would unlikely affect overall Swedish-US relations, noting that ties were good.
One area that could possibly be affected was however trade as members of the Democratic Party have at times been more opposed to free trade than Republicans, Bildt said on Swedish radio.
Mogens Lykketoft, foreign affairs spokesman and former leader of the Danish opposition Social Democrats, welcomed the outcome, saying it would "shift the political landscape" in the US.
In Oslo, history professor Geir Lundestad said "the election result cannot be seen as a clear vote of confidence for the Democrats, but rather a rap on the knuckles of President Bush," Norwegian news agency NTB said.
Lundestad is head of the Nobel Institute that assists the five- member Nobel Committee that selects the Nobel Peace Prize winner.
© 2006 DPA (http://www.playfuls.com/news_10_2940-Cautious-Nordic-Reactions-To-US-Mid-term-Election-Outcome.html)
Hiroshima
11-08-2006, 03:28 PM
Plenty of experience with Washington. I spent time working there. A junior senator like Webb has 0 chance of setting any agenda for the nation. The party leaders do that and they do it according to who owes who a favor, who voted with who last time, whose turn it is, etc.
Webb has no seniority. If he stands up to the Kerry-Kennedy crowd all he will do is ensure that the people who got him the office (the DNC and their money) will hang him out to dry next cycle.
That's how it works in Washington. Webb has to play along and vote for the leadership's bills and then later on down the line when it's his turn, he can get something he wants.
I'm currently employed in the Military Industrial Complex (kinda..more like a windowless office of a development shop within the Army), and took political science courses. Sure, he has no seniority, but the guy's got the balls to do it if he wants to do it. We're just going to have to wait and see.
I'm currently employed in the Military Industrial Complex (kinda..more like a windowless office of a development shop within the Army), and took political science courses. Sure, he has no seniority, but the guy's got the balls to do it if he wants to do it. We're just going to have to wait and see.
To do what? Piss off his fellow Democrats? What will that accomplish? Remember what happened to Peter Fitzgerald from Illinois when he went against the wishes of the Republican party leaders a few years ago? The same would happen to Webb.
That's how Washington works.
The Democrat leaders didn't put Webb up there because they actually wanted a anti-gun control, anti-gay marriage senator. They put Webb up because he was conservative enough to beat Allen in a conservative state knowing full well that it would likely give them a majority so they could advance their agenda. If he wants to stay in Washington or pass any of his own ideas, he'll have to play ball.
Hiroshima
11-08-2006, 03:44 PM
*shrugs* Wait and see is pretty much the only answer I'm going to give you.
*shrugs* Wait and see is pretty much the only answer I'm going to give you.
Well, I've seen it before. People put their hopes in some congressman who thinks he's gonna buck the system. It never happens. It's been tried countless times and failed every time.
NewsMan
11-08-2006, 05:52 PM
It will force the administration to come to the table. Bush talked about his "mandate"... well, another one has been announced. If Bush doesn't work with the Dems, he'll further cripple the GOP.
Didn't take long for Rumsfeld to go. So, you don't think this has anything to do with the fact that Pelosi and Rumsfeld HATE each other. A change was needed in order for progress to be made. Bush gets a star today.
ElHombre
11-08-2006, 05:55 PM
Well, I've seen it before. People put their hopes in some congressman who thinks he's gonna buck the system. It never happens. It's been tried countless times and failed every time.
Unless you plan on having an authoritarian dictatorship take charge of the US, you might want to get used to the gov't we have. It's called democracy: if your leaders are not to your liking, you have the right and responsibility to change them.
NewsMan
11-08-2006, 05:58 PM
Just for the record: I've interviewed Webb three times in the past two months. First thing y'all need to understand is why the guy seems so stiff. Answer: He is filled with VC shrapnel. Also know this: Webb is as independent as I've seen a politician. While he is Democrat, he is clearly a guy not afraid to do what he thinks is right.
Hunterhr
11-08-2006, 06:02 PM
Unless you plan on having an authoritarian dictatorship take charge of the US, you might want to get used to the gov't we have. It's called democracy: if your leaders are not to your liking, you have the right and responsibility to change them.
So no bitching about congress anymore?
Mark Twain just rolled over in his grave.
Stolly
11-08-2006, 06:03 PM
Just for the record: I've interviewed Webb three times in the past two months. First thing y'all need to understand is why the guy seems so stiff. Answer: He is filled with VC shrapnel. Also know this: Webb is as independent as I've seen a politician. While he is Democrat, he is clearly a guy not afraid to do what he thinks is right.
I hope he didn't pick up any purple hearts for that, wouldn't people who knew someone who heard he didn't earn them making TV commercials about it would we ?
Unless you plan on having an authoritarian dictatorship take charge of the US, you might want to get used to the gov't we have. It's called democracy: if your leaders are not to your liking, you have the right and responsibility to change them.
Uh, whaaa?
When did I say I didn't accept or wasn't used to the system? I worked for the system, Sherlock.
Webb won't be any different than any other newbie in the Senate.
Hiroshima
11-08-2006, 06:08 PM
So no bitching about congress anymore?
Mark Twain just rolled over in his grave.
I think that's still in the rules too....
ElHombre
11-08-2006, 06:50 PM
Webb won't be any different than any other newbie in the Senate.
I am so pleased to see that your powers of prediction are so acute. Perhaps you can offer your services to our gov't and tell them how to get out of the mess we're in.
In the meantime, you have the same choice millions of Americans face. If you don't like your leaders, work to elect someone who will meet your standards and in the meantime point out actual facts instead of gazing at a crystal ball.
Laconian
11-08-2006, 07:37 PM
I hope he didn't pick up any purple hearts for that, wouldn't people who knew someone who heard he didn't earn them making TV commercials about it would we ?
Webb was a very respected Marine. Webb is the Marine Ollie North wanted to be but never was.
dangerclose
11-08-2006, 08:20 PM
Webb was a very respected Marine. Webb is the Marine Ollie North wanted to be but never was.
Where in Vietnam did you serve hero?
Hot Lips
11-08-2006, 09:42 PM
Instead of celebrating the fact that democracy works, some here seem hell bent on perpetuating a losing policy of divide and conquer with peripheral wedge issues, which the electorate has soundly rejected. America's political success has always been built on checks and balances and bipartisanship, something the Republican base seemingly has forgotten.
From reading some of the comments on MP.net from Bush supporters, the line has already been drawn in the sand even before the Democrats take over the House and possibly the Senate. Already Bu****es are trumpeting the use of the veto and slash and burn tactics instead of working together for the common good. In one day, Republican Party hacks have gone from saying they would hold on to saying the results were expected in a mid-term election (despite the fact that several Presidents did not lose seats in the past).
One would think that the extreme right wing of the Republican party has learned a lesson. Bush and Rove appealed to his conservative base and decided early on to ignore the middle and were rejected by the electorate. The wave of Democrat victories is even more astounding when you realize that the victories were in gerrymandered "safe" districts. It also proves that the political capital Bush stated he had in 2004 was all in his mind because he was elected by a slim margin that year and in 2000 lost the popular vote; yet, he decided to rule like a potentate claiming he had a mandate.
I can only hope that both parties will work together and fulfill the American dream for one and all and that this country can once again become a beacon of freedom and hope for the rest of the world instead being despised and hated.
Better to buy the world a Coke spiked with freedom and hope than to continue to drink the Kool Aid poisoned by hate of your fellow Americans because they disagree with you politically as the extreme right wing of the Republican party seems to be intent on doing.
Two thirds of Americans find fault with the execution of the Iraqi War, most of the Western World thinks we have lost our moral compass, we've alienated the Muslim world because the extreme right has demonized their religion and the "Axis of Evil" has been empowered by the current administration's failed policy in Iraq, and all you can do is quote an old television commercial to back your spurious assumption that the Democrats will leave our supporters out on a limb. The last time that happen was when Bush I didn't support the Kurds and Shia during Desert Storm. The time before that was when Ford left the Vietnamese government high and dry when we boogied out of Saigon. Need I remind you they were both Republicans.
So far as I'm concerned, the Iraqis can form a circular firing squad and have at it rather than seeing one more Coalition serviceman or servicewoman die because of political incompetence that borders on treason.
If Truman, Eisenhower, Reagan and Clinton could work with the opposition, I'm hoping Bush can, too. Rumsfeld resignation is hopefully the first step towards Americans reconciling, although I'm sure some of the Base will use his resignation to spew more hate.
Nice to read you once more, XASA. :hug:
Laconian
11-08-2006, 09:58 PM
Where in Vietnam did you serve hero?
Where in anything I've written have I ever stated or even inferred I was in Vietnam?
But as for my opinion of Webb, I stand by it. Read THE NIGHTINGALE'S SONG by Robert Timberg for the Webb/North comparison.
9mmRifle
11-08-2006, 10:08 PM
Jim Webb may have won by 5,000 votes and another close call Tester leads by 2,000 votes.
http://augusta.redjupiter.com/images/augustafreepress/jameswebbheadshot.jpg
http://www.augustafreepress.com/election
http://www.pensitoreview.com/images/photo-jon-tester.jpg
http://www.pensitoreview.com/
Expect a re-count in Virginia and Montana for the Senate and will Sanders or Lieberman will caucus with the Democrats ?
Looks like Democrats pick up the senate
Friendly Fire
11-09-2006, 12:33 AM
To do what? Piss off his fellow Democrats? What will that accomplish? Remember what happened to Peter Fitzgerald from Illinois when he went against the wishes of the Republican party leaders a few years ago? The same would happen to Webb.
That's how Washington works.
The Democrat leaders didn't put Webb up there because they actually wanted a anti-gun control, anti-gay marriage senator. They put Webb up because he was conservative enough to beat Allen in a conservative state knowing full well that it would likely give them a majority so they could advance their agenda. If he wants to stay in Washington or pass any of his own ideas, he'll have to play ball.
It's stunnigly close to our Euro-Parliament with the same problems of "chaperonage" (seniority control) despite good will utopian declarations.
It's one of the inherent flaws of the representative system inherited from the British FPP (Simple majority elections and a bipartisan system graze your loose oligarchy).
A more personal question (PM) what was your job over there!
amoercans: peace lovin'
american politics : not.
Hiroshima
11-09-2006, 12:39 AM
Looks like Democrats pick up the senate
According to VA law, it's an automatic recount if it's less than 1% difference.
angry cow
11-09-2006, 05:34 AM
Think its safe to say that both houses are now under the theoretical control of the democrats.
Not quite that simple though, lots of conservative to moderate democrats that could switch aisles on certain votes, not too many moderate republicans left.
Hillary standing next to her husband makes her look decidedly unimpressive.
Obama vs. McCain could be a win-win. I'm still thinking about it, with the houses under the democrats I think a republican whitehouse might do just fine to keep things sane.
Friendly Fire
11-09-2006, 06:32 AM
Think its safe to say that both houses are now under the theoretical control of the democrats.
Not quite that simple though, lots of conservative to moderate democrats that could switch aisles on certain votes, not too many moderate republicans left.
Hillary standing next to her husband makes her look decidedly unimpressive.
Obama vs. McCain could be a win-win. I'm still thinking about it, with the houses under the democrats I think a republican whitehouse might do just fine to keep things sane.
I'd like mcCain (yeah suprising from a pinko) the man is an old political animal great for the job and looks tough and humane. Obama is just a political show, i'd prefer Dean over him anyday.
dangerclose
11-09-2006, 12:16 PM
Where in anything I've written have I ever stated or even inferred I was in Vietnam?
But as for my opinion of Webb, I stand by it. Read THE NIGHTINGALE'S SONG by Robert Timberg for the Webb/North comparison.
That wasn't the point. It's just funny you belittling someone else's service.
Webb is a war hero but that in no way diminishes North (Silver and Bronze Star, 2 Purple Hearts).
Hunterhr
11-09-2006, 12:53 PM
I'd like mcCain (yeah suprising from a pinko)
That's because McCain is a RINO.
NewsMan
11-09-2006, 03:34 PM
According to VA law, it's an automatic recount if it's less than 1% difference.
Actually, it is not automatic, but needs to be requested. Twice it has happened, neither was a success to the requesting party.
NewsMan
11-09-2006, 03:35 PM
That wasn't the point. It's just funny you belittling someone else's service.
Webb is a war hero but that in no way diminishes North (Silver and Bronze Star, 2 Purple Hearts).
Not to mention a second bronze star and the NAVY CROSS!
dangerclose
11-09-2006, 04:29 PM
Not to mention a second bronze star and the NAVY CROSS!
Yeah, Webb is a war hero as has been established. But he's still a perv.
Aerosoul
11-09-2006, 04:34 PM
Allen has conceded. Dems have the Senate.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20061109/ap_on_el_se/virginia_senate
dangerclose
11-09-2006, 04:35 PM
Allen has conceded. Dems have the Senate.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20061109/ap_on_el_se/virginia_senate
God help us all. The morons are in charge of both houses of congress.
Liberalism is a mental disorder and proof that evolution/natural selection is an absolute farce.
Aerosoul
11-09-2006, 04:37 PM
Go look up the definition of liberalism and its roots.
Anyway, we'll see what happens. Could be a very interesting Congress.
California Joe
11-09-2006, 04:47 PM
God help us all. The morons are in charge of both houses of congress.
Liberalism is a mental disorder and proof that evolution/natural selection is an absolute farce.
Once again would one of you Rush Limbaugh blowing dittoheads care to explain to me how James Webb get's labeled "Liberal". Maybe it was that whole shooting a bunch of VC thing.
How old are you anyway and what kind of mad life skills have you acquired that makes you judge and jury over politics in this country?
dangerclose
11-09-2006, 04:53 PM
Once again would one of you Rush Limbaugh blowing dittoheads care to explain to me how James Webb get's labeled "Liberal". Maybe it was that whole shooting a bunch of VC thing.
How old are you anyway and what kind of mad life skills have you acquired that makes you judge and jury over politics in this country?
uhh .. James Webb and Heath Shuler are not in charge. Pelosi and Reid are. And yeah .. they are liberals.
California Joe
11-09-2006, 05:12 PM
Don't forget Casey from PA. Hey, get a few more of those guys and you remake the party. What the hell do you want? Someone to hate or a more centrist government, and frankly I don't think Nancy will intimidate Jim Webb that much. I realize that freshmen don't get that much to do but for chrissakes your generalizations are getting to be a little strident and high pitched like a woman scorned. They aren't even in charge yet and when they take over the commitees they don't exactly have an overwhelming majority. Bernie Sanders will always, and I mean always vote his conscience (very big in Veterans Affairs by the way) Joe Lieberman is more right wing than half of the Republicans.
dangerclose
11-09-2006, 05:15 PM
Don't forget Casey from PA. Hey, get a few more of those guys and you remake the party. What the hell do you want? Someone to hate or a more centrist government, and frankly I don't think Nancy will intimidate Jim Webb that much. I realize that freshmen don't get that much to do but for chrissakes your generalizations are getting to be a little strident and high pitched like a woman scorned. They aren't even in charge yet and when they take over the commitees they don't exactly have an overwhelming majority. Bernie Sanders will always, and I mean always vote his conscience (very big in Veterans Affairs by the way) Joe Lieberman is more right wing than half of the Republicans.
I hope you're right and that's the one of the silver linings in this defeat.
I'm sure the evildoers out there in the world couldn't be happier about this result.
Though some say that Bush might focus more on foreign policy now that he's crippled on his home turf, but that seems more like wishful thinking.
dangerclose
11-09-2006, 05:27 PM
I'm sure the evildoers out there in the world couldn't be happier about this result.
Though some say that Bush might focus more on foreign policy now that he's crippled on his home turf, but that seems more like wishful thinking.
They've said as much.
California Joe
11-09-2006, 05:42 PM
Maybe I haven't been clear, but my problem with Bush and his plan is that he has not managed to kill more bad guys and secure the occupation. Because they tried to do it with no plan and with minimal troops. A lot of this could have been solved during the initial Blitzkrieg if we'd had the manpower to secure supply lines and bypassed cities while we happened to be there shocking and awing everyone. Since when do evildoers dictate foreign policy? You f*cking guys act like the new ACU's are going to be pink because Nancy Pelosi picked them out.
ibstolidude
11-09-2006, 06:23 PM
....You f*cking guys act like the new ACU's are going to be pink because Nancy Pelosi picked them out. which is crazy. Simply ridiculous.........the ascots, however, will be cerise.
California Joe
11-09-2006, 06:28 PM
You look hot in cerise.
I was thinking more of Alizarin Crimson or Cerulean Blue. But that's just the artsy fartsy side of me talking.....
ibstolidude
11-09-2006, 06:32 PM
You look hot in cerise.
I was thinking more of Alizarin Crimson or Cerulean Blue. But that's just the artsy fartsy side of me talking.....
that just prooves, I look good in hot pants, regardless of color...now, if you'll excuse me..I think I will be sick.
Hot Lips
11-09-2006, 08:07 PM
*snicker*........
Laconian
11-09-2006, 09:49 PM
Does that mean there is no pink? I might've re-upped for pink cammies..
ibstolidude
11-10-2006, 12:19 AM
Does that mean there is no pink? I might've re-upped for pink cammies..
Try washing your ACU's with your wife's red blouse.
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