That is why so many hate our President. They know he is going to make them look like selfish dodo for everyone in the world to see.
AWWW!!! That’s our President, whistling and working his brains:-).
The long game…
Here’s another image of competence – being positively in the moment
I was reading a comment somewhere, regarding Tweeter town hall, someone said, how can he not know the magnitude of the economy, while saying “the worst economy since the great depression”. Any thoughts??
The previous administration talked a lotāand the less charitable among us would say that they kept on talking and not doing to stoke fear. This administration is actually, you know, going after the people who brought us the 2001 attacks. Yes, he’s got this.
Bwd: the president gave three local interviews yesterday, one in NC, anybody know what was said?
The DC media buries these interviews, they get jealous. Lol!
HEE HEE HEE Go POTUS!
The DC media can bury the interviews all it wants; they still happened, and people who watch local news saw them. The DC media is becoming increasingly irrelevant, and its desperation to continue being the information gatekeeper increases every time PBO goes around them.
Even bill maher was laying the blame of the economy at the GOP foot! Yesterday, was the first day the media asked the republicans if they have any responsibility with the jobs mess. Surprise!
LOL This pic of POTUS is a hoot. He makes it look effortless, even when we all know it’s anything but.
I’m a very bad whistler, and I’ve never been able to do the fingers in the mouth whistle.
The worm is turning.
Serious question: if Mr. Boehner makes a deal with PBO in which he has to rely on the Dem caucus for passage, how long does he remain Speaker?
The media is complicit in the job mess, because they’re purposely omitting the truth behind the real cause of the job mess. When the MSM Did eveything but cover the historic demostrations in Wisconsin, we knew they had no vested interest in JOBS for America.
LOL Yes, and the DC media continues to appear ever incompetent whenever PBO goes around them and speaks to the American people and the world.
Now it’s Colin powers turn. He is in south Sudan giving George bush credit for south sudans independence.
He was just interviewed on CNN saying, I was here in 2005. When George bush instructed me to sign this accord for independence. And it was George bush who blah blah blah!
Luckily, Susan rice was there as well.
Here we go again. Can’t give credit to this president for anything. Come on Colin!
Now it’s Colin powells turn. He is in south Sudan giving George bush credit for south sudans independence.
He was just interviewed on CNN saying, I was here in 2005. When George bush instructed me to sign this accord for independence. And it was George bush who blah blah blah!
Luckily, Susan rice was there as well.
Here we go again. Can’t give credit to this president for anything. Come on Colin!
Really? You mean George Clooney was given any credit either? /snark
I’ve got your back Mr. President! Negative words & attitudes from all angles are bouncing off me like Teflon! š
My grandma, Ole, could whistle all the different bird tweets! I liked that about her. And I also like the cool and confident whistling President Obama.
I don’t know, bit is that “drool” I see in the corners of Eric “Teabag” Cantor’s mouth?
That is true, BTW. The one good thing that Bush did in his 8 miserable years, was the way he dealt with Africa. In this case he deserves credit.
Hal spark was on today, and he was saying when the president is this cool he got this and that he is not worried. not only is doing debt ceiling, he found out that Leon Panetta in Afghanistan and they are close to getting the 20 remaining Al Qaeda memeber the way they got Bin laden.
Also the actor Hugh Grant did some covert stuff to help bring Rupert Murdoch down. this was payback for bugging his personal cell phone and bragging about it.
The subhead is “Labour leader to test the strength of the coalition with Commons motion aimed at stopping buyout in its tracks”. I don’t think the LibDem backbenchers have any great love for Rupert. This should be interesting.
Yes i heard Hal Sparks talking about this.
He knew the magnitude of economy, he did not know the magnitude of the selfish, greedy, GOP, Corporations, Banksters, hedge fundsters, millionaires and billionaires who want him to fail. The recession ended and all the economist found that companies were sitting (and still sitting) on trillions of $’s yet they won’t hire people. They would rather work people to death because no one else was hiring.
The jobless numbers were VERY much affected by huge public employee lay offs. that is in turn going to effect demand and stress out unemployment funds. The GOP and their gloom and doom talk is NOT helping. Also my friends husband is a trucker and he says that businesses are holding back. Why? Good question. I am not an economist.
omg whistling walking BO how I love thee. Wasn’t there pics a few weeks or that weekend before getting rid of BL that our potus was walking and whistling? *waits for awesomeness to occur in 5 4 3 2….. anywho He looks great š
I hope whatever happens to Rupert Murderoch extends to the USA. I hope the FCC can revoke his license here in America.
I have no problem Mr. Bush getting some props. His policies in Africa was one of the things his failed admin can crow about so let them. POTUS would probably have said the same thing.
From my twitter timeline:
RT @demsforprogress: Progressive Caucus DEFENDS President #obama on his Social Security Stance at http://bit.ly/oGqepk
#DemRapidResponse (VIDEO) Jon Huntsman Says “Guilty as Charged” to Ending Medicare as We Know It. http://t.co/v8hlpqP #news #politics #Obama
Bush did a lot in Southern Sudan, mostly back by the Evangelicals who saw Sudanese Christians being victimized by mostly Moslem northerners under Bashir. Prez Obama did not drop the ball on S. Sudan, he expedited the process and saw to it that a free country emerged even as he pressed the international court to indict Bashir for his crimes against Southern Sudanese citizens.
I just received this email:
From: Jeremy Bird, BarackObama.com
Subject: A MILESTONE
Lillie —
THE PRESIDENT’S 50TH BIRTHDAY IS COMING UP ON AUGUST 4TH.
But he doesn’t need a post on his Facebook wall.
THE PRESIDENT HAS BEEN CLEAR THAT WHILE HE FOCUSES ON THE JOB HE WAS ELECTED TO DO, he’s relying on us to get this campaign off the ground.
THE BEST GIFT ANY OF US CAN GIVE HIM IS REAL ORGANIZING TO BRING MORE PEOPLE INTO THIS CAMPAIGN.
So HERE’S A CHALLENGE: Do you think you can bring 50 new people into this campaign for President Obama’s 50th birthday?
YOU DECIDE WHAT SORT OF ORGANIZING IS RIGHT FOR YOU:
— YOU CAN COLLECT 50 “I’M IN” COMMITMENTS;
— YOU CAN INSPIRE 50 DONORS TO GIVE;
— or YOUR CAN GET 50 PEOPLE TO ATTEND A CAMPAIGN EVENT OR EVENTS.
YOU CAN EVEN DO SOME OF EACH. It’s your choice.
IF YOU ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE, click below to get started. Once you start reaching out to people, we’ll help track your progress for you, invite you to a conference call to share tips and encouragement, and let you know as you reach milestones on the way to 50.
Sign up and start making calls to supporters in your area, or choose another action to help grow this campaign. You can start right now…
IT’S IMPORTANT TO CLICK THAT LINK AND LET US KNOW IF YOU ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE.
That’s because WHEN YOU REACH YOUR GOAL OF 50 NEW PEOPLE, WE’LL ENTER YOUR NAME INTO A DRAWING to join the President, his family, and other supporters at his 50th birthday celebration in Chicago next month.
The deadline to reach your goal of 50 new supporters is July 28th, just a few days before the President’s birthday. So let’s get moving — there are 50 people out there who need to hear from you.
PICK WHICH ACTION YOU’D LIKE TO START WITH, and start reaching out to them now:
And, for somethin’ extra, if you can afford it, you can call and leave a message, here:
PBHO’s “Hotline” – (202) 456-1111
HAPPY 50th BIRTHDAY, PBHO! š
YES.WE.CAN…DO.(Much)More, Together!
I’M IN…FIRED UP & GOIN’! š
One thing I am sure of, Cantor is ready to stick a knife in his back. The slimy snake (with apologies to snakes) seems to be doing everything he can to undermine Boehner.
That’s incredible news. It’s so awesome to see Dems on the same page!
I love his work; his Michigan reportage is excellent.
oh that’s great! I always read his blog. Much better than loonie DK
Clooney actually did extraordinary work for Sudan, especially Darfur. He too deserves all the credit he can get. He lobbied media, pressured Western govts and has met prez Obama to push for more support.
That’s great news. Thanks for reporting, jovie.
Clooney deserves the Nobel Peace Prize.
BTW, I’m pretty sure some serious-secret-budget meetings going on Camp David this weekend. I’m pretty sure PBO never went back-to-back to CD.
You got that right…
And, yes WE do!
YES.WE.CAN…DO.(Much)More, Together!
I’M IN…FIRED UP & GOIN’! š
I thought he was referring to not knowing the depth of the recession.
Yes he does. Extraordinary, passionate work for the Sudanese people.
What? Oh happy day!!
Think you’re right….I’m getting excited. In a good way:) I trust him 1 million percent.
Hi guys. Here is a link to PBO’s interview yesterday with a Seattle reporter. Answers lots of questions, made me feel SO much better,. Great interview: Its so refeshing to watch a REAL interview without stupid talking points for questions. http://www.king5.com/video?id=125177029&sec=549122
That was nice. Thank you. I have so much respect for Jean Enerson. She is unstoppable and one of the most gracious people around.
His advisors gave opinions on the state of the economy prior to and when he was sworn in based on the data at the time.
Once he was sworn in and things developed even after the Stimulus Bill was passed, the real scale of the financial crisis unfolded in 2009 as it bottomed out and the catstrophe was laid bare.
The two statements are not incompatible .
Remember there was a report when President Obama first came into office where one of Bush’s budget guys said they had an “error” in the GDP calculations going back many years, and a correction was made – then all of a sudden we started hearing about how the recession had actually been going on since 2007? Plus, none of the costs of the wars and prescription drug plan and tax cuts had been included in the deficit numbers until President Obama came in and included them. Plus, most economists and finance people ended up not understanding the derivatives market and how the mortgage crisis had even happened – until it was studied and explained about the slicing up of mortgages, bundling and reselling many times over their worth to countries and banks around the world?
Well, all of this ended up in a picture that was so masked and distorted that it took some time to work out all the truth. When the Obama Administration figured out just how bad the picture really was, they were shocked at the far reaching damage. Everybody was.
I just fell off my chair at this one…
That’s right tulips.
///New US Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta is indicating that the recent raid on Osama bin Laden’s compound in Pakistan provided massive amounts of intelligence that may help to defeat the terror organization. NBC’s Atia Abawi reports.///
Howard Dean also stated on “The Last Word” on Thursday that he liked what the President was doing and that it was very possible to make “cuts” to SS/Medicare/Medicaid without touching any benefits.
Clooney is just a beautiful person – on the inside AND outside!
It was also under George Bush via Powell and Condi Rice that Charles Taylor was pushed out of Liberia, my homeland. For two decades, we were mired in a senseless civil war under that strong man, a Gadaffi protege.
Thankfully, Powell and Rice pushed Bush to apply pressure, forcing Taylor to flee the country. And today his butt sits in jail in The Hague for his crimes against humanity.
That, I give Bush credit and am grateful for.
In Sudan today, I guarantee you those people are just darn happy to have their own homeland. I’d like to wager they are also gratehul to the U.S. for its role in achieving their independence.
Carol – Ditto here! š
Yes, hopefruit2, I heard Howard Dean say that also, and I thought that is good news.
Very nice interview. Thankks for sharing maggy519. I especially appreciated how polite she asked the questions and then allowed the President to answer the questions. Thanks again.
The picture of Obama looks soooooooooooo cool, what he is saying do not worried I got this.
Sudan was a very good news, and yes george Clooney was up fron in Sudan sevaral times, he meet with PBO at the WH to discused Sudan Clooney is a good guy.
Same here Carol and Jacquelineoboomer. I love to see a smart man also being very calm and cool. Just think, the most powerful man in the world, but yet he can move right along and think, chew his gum, and whistle all at once. And you know he is doing some heavy thinking about the meeting on Sunday. I love this President and I have his back also.
I told him that when I met him 2 years ago. I thought I was going to tell him a bunch of stuff. But when I looked into his eyes it was like looking into pools that lead directly to his compassionate soul. It took me back and all I could say was, “Thank you for all you do for us. We’ve got your back.” I’ll never forget his eyes. I’ve still got his back and always will.
So glad I came across your blog. Thanks!
Let’s take a look back at PBHO’s 2011 SOTU. Here are two very interestin’ and thoughtful analyses about that speech:
@MuddyPolitics’ [PRESIDENT] OBAMA SILENCES THE CRITICS, STEALS THE GOP’S THUNDER…
tās easy to analyze the less-than-harsh criticisms of the presidentās state of the union address as the result of some new political awakening, a nod of acknowledgement to the consequences of vitriolic political rhetoric, and a realization ā spurred by the tragic shootings in Tucson ā that there is an obvious link between violent language and violence itself.
Itās possible.
Itās also possible that President Obamaās address was so flawless that it left no room for genuine criticism; that he silenced any potential critiques by not only agreeing with Republican concerns about the debt, about spending and about jobs, but by then countering the fears of Americaās economic decline by proposing practical policies against which even his staunchest opponents couldnāt argue.
OBAMA DIDN’T MERELY STEAL THE THUNDER OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY Tuesday night. HE MARCHED INTO THE IDEOLOGICAL FORTRESS OF THE DEMAGOGUING DEMIGODS AND RIPPED THE LIGHTENING BOLT RIGHT OUT OF THEIR HANDS ā then beat them over the head with it as every member of Congress in the House chamber stood and cheered him on.
IN OUTLINING HIS PLAN TO INCREASE INNOVATION, ACCELERATE EDUCATION AND IMPROVE INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE EVER-COMPETITIVE RACE TOWARD GLOBAL DOMINANCE, OBAMA BALANCED HIS RHETORIC WITH SPECIFIC GOALS TO ACHIEVE THEM.
And Republicans ate it up.
HE PLASTERED DUELING EXPRESSIONS OF FEAR AND WONDER, GUARDED REVELRY AND GOD-FEARING AWE, SKEPTICISM AND ā if I may say so ā āhopeā onto the faces of every Republican member of Congress. AND HE DID IT BY USING THEIR OWN VALUES, THEIR OWN TALKING POINTS, AND THEIR OWN CAMPAIGN GOALS AGAINST THEM…
Republicans gain political advantage by being better at politics than Democrats. This is a cold hard truth that Democrats are loathe to admit, even to themselves. There are TWO PRIMARY METHODS THAT REPUBLICANS EMPLOY TO LEVERAGE AND CONSOLIDATE THEIR POLITICAL POWER: FIRST, THEY SPEAK TO WEDGE ISSUES that are so emotionally powerful that they separate voters from 90% of their interests and well being for the 10% that motivates them emotionally. SECONDLY, THEY ADVOCATE STRAW DOG SOLUTIONS TO COMPLEX ISSUES creating quick, easily repeatable catch phrases that sound like they might be effective even though they rarely would address more than the smallest fraction of the issue they are deployed against.
In the State of the Union last night PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA TORE UP HALF OF THE REPUBLICAN PLAYBOOK, NOT BY DISPROVING OR REFUTING THE RIDICULOUS STRAW DOGS that the GOP have used to such great effect for years, HE CO-OPTED THEM, EMBRACED THEM KNOWING THAT THEY WON’T SOLVE ANYTHING but also KNOWING THAT THE QUICKEST WAY TO PROVE THAT WE REQUIRED MORE COMPLETE SOLUTIONS is to include the bumper sticker solutions so that they can no longer be used as an excuse. Several examples are below and I would not be at all surprised if I missed a fewā¦
STRAW DOG: āAMERICA HAS ONE OF THE HIGHEST RATES OF CORPORATE TAXES IN THE INDUSTRIALIZED WORLD.ā
FACT: The largest corporations in America pay nothing even remotely approaching the marginal tax rates.
OBAMA: Over the years, a parade of lobbyists has rigged the tax code to benefit particular companies and industries. Those with accountants or lawyers to work the system can end up paying no taxes at all. But all the rest are hit with one of the highest corporate tax rates in the world. It makes no sense, and it has to change. So tonight, Iām asking Democrats and Republicans to simplify the system. Get rid of the loopholes. Level the playing field. And use the savings to lower the corporate tax rate for the first time in 25 years ā without adding to our deficit.
STRAW DOG: FREEZING SPENDING WILL BE EFFECTIVE AT STEMMING DEFICITS.
FACT: Discretionary spending is a small fraction of the budget, cuts or freezes of discretionary spending will have a relatively small impact in relation to the scope of the problem.
OBAMA: We are living with a legacy of deficit-spending that began almost a decade ago. And in the wake of the financial crisis, some of that was necessary to keep credit flowing, save jobs, and put money in peopleās pockets. But now that the worst of the recession is over, we have to confront the fact that our government spends more than it takes in. That is not sustainable. Every day, families sacrifice to live within their means. They deserve a government that does the same. So tonight, I am proposing that starting this year, we freeze annual domestic spending for the next five years. This would reduce the deficit by more than $400 billion over the next decade, and will bring discretionary spending to the lowest share of our economy since Dwight Eisenhower was president. This freeze will require painful cuts. Already, we have frozen the salaries of hardworking federal employees for the next two years. Iāve proposed cuts to things I care deeply about, like community action programs. The Secretary of Defense has also agreed to cut tens of billions of dollars in spending that he and his generals believe our military can do without.
STRAW DOG: TORT REFORM WILL SOLVE SKYROCKETING HEALTH CARE COSTS.
FACT: Medical malpractice costs and the costs of defensive medicine are a tiny fraction of healthcare spendingā¦ Texas has some of the toughest tort reforms and also some of the highest costs per capita for health care.
OBAMA: Health insurance reform will slow these rising costs, which is part of why nonpartisan economists have said that repealing the health care law would add a quarter of a trillion dollars to our deficit. Still, Iām willing to look at other ideas to bring down costs, including one that Republicans suggested last year: medical malpractice reform to rein in frivolous lawsuits.
STRAW DOG: SMALL GOVERNMENT IS BETTER GOVERNMENT.
FACT: Size doesnāt matter, it really is about being effective.
OBAMA: Let me take this one step further. We shouldnāt just give our people a government thatās more affordable. We should give them a government thatās more competent and efficient. We cannot win the future with a government of the past.
STRAW DOG: ELITE DEMOCRATS HAVE NO RESPECT FOR THE MILITARY, NOT WITH THEIR POLICY AND NOT IN THEIR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION.
FACT: Repeal of DADT proved that Democrats respect the service of ALL those who put on the uniform
OBAMA: Our troops come from every corner of this country ā they are black, white, Latino, Asian and Native American. They are Christian and Hindu, Jewish and Muslim. And, yes, we know that some of them are gay. Starting this year, no American will be forbidden from serving the country they love because of who they love. And with that change, I call on all of our college campuses to open their doors to our military recruiters and the ROTC. It is time to leave behind the divisive battles of the past. It is time to move forward as one nation.
STRAW DOG: EARMARKS ARE EVIL AND WASTEFUL.
FACT: Earmarks are a tool, they are only as evil as the user, also they are a tiny fraction of spending
OBAMA: And because the American people deserve to know that special interests arenāt larding up legislation with pet projects, both parties in Congress should know this: if a bill comes to my desk with earmarks inside, I will veto it.
STRAW DOG: ELITES like the President THAT FIND FAULT WITH AMERICA, HATE AMERICA.
FACT: Caring enough to acknowledge our faults and work to perfect the Union has been the work of patriots for more than 200 years.
OBAMA: And yet, as contentious and frustrating and messy as our democracy can sometimes be, I know there isnāt a person here who would trade places with any other nation on Earth.
BY EMBRACING THE REPUBLICANS RIDICULOUS TALKING POINTS THE GOP IS LEFT WITH NOTHING to be forā¦ THEY HAD NOTHING BEFORE now it is blindingly apparent.
Our Prez doesn’t “do things willy-nilly.” He ALWAYS has this Sun Tzu plan, ‘The War of Art’ in mind! lol
Your thoughts?
YES.WE.CAN…DO.(Much)More, Together!
I’M IN…FIRED UP & GOIN’! š
Republicans will can his ass. No question.
then he shouldn’t have been on the trip. Democrats need to know what is being said on behalf of the U.S. government.
This is where the administration is a little naive. Colin Powell is moderate, but his legacy is tied to the Bush administration, not to the Obama administration. There is nothing wrong with vetting what he is going to say.
No way the Bush administration would let someone near the microphone that was going to do damage to his administration.
I see your point. However if that had been true of Clinton initiatives, no way the Bush administration would have put a Clinton official on the plane and in front of the microphone.
We can argue about niceties and in the grand scheme of things Colin Powell crediting Bush is not a big deal. But it’s not the politics Republicans would have used. If there is nothing but credit for your administration hitting the microphone, then that becomes CW — that you are right all the time. It’s smart politics whether we like it or not.
And Colin Powell should say that. Did he? Not just Susan Rice, but Powell. That at least would have been good politics.
Cool! So he’s as conscience-less as Mittens. Good!
The only adult in the room 
i’M OLD ENOUGH TO BE HIS MOTHER BUT I LOVE THIS GUY!
He absolutely does. And we got his back.
And I got your back Mr. President. Whistle while you work! š
Yes he does! Ever wonder about the wealthy cheaters that don’t think they have enough, and should scam the system some more? http://www.latimes.com/business/autos/la-fi-autos-farm-vehicles-20110709,0,2693976.story
That is why so many hate our President. They know he is going to make them look like selfish dodo for everyone in the world to see.
AWWW!!! That’s our President, whistling and working his brains:-).
The long game…
Here’s another image of competence – being positively in the moment
I was reading a comment somewhere, regarding Tweeter town hall, someone said, how can he not know the magnitude of the economy, while saying “the worst economy since the great depression”. Any thoughts??
In the vein of “I got this”: US ‘within reach of strategic defeat of al-Qaeda’.
The previous administration talked a lotāand the less charitable among us would say that they kept on talking and not doing to stoke fear. This administration is actually, you know, going after the people who brought us the 2001 attacks. Yes, he’s got this.
Bwd: the president gave three local interviews yesterday, one in NC, anybody know what was said?
The DC media buries these interviews, they get jealous. Lol!
HEE HEE HEE Go POTUS!
The DC media can bury the interviews all it wants; they still happened, and people who watch local news saw them. The DC media is becoming increasingly irrelevant, and its desperation to continue being the information gatekeeper increases every time PBO goes around them.
Even bill maher was laying the blame of the economy at the GOP foot! Yesterday, was the first day the media asked the republicans if they have any responsibility with the jobs mess. Surprise!
LOL This pic of POTUS is a hoot. He makes it look effortless, even when we all know it’s anything but.
I’m a very bad whistler, and I’ve never been able to do the fingers in the mouth whistle.
The worm is turning.
Serious question: if Mr. Boehner makes a deal with PBO in which he has to rely on the Dem caucus for passage, how long does he remain Speaker?
The media is complicit in the job mess, because they’re purposely omitting the truth behind the real cause of the job mess. When the MSM Did eveything but cover the historic demostrations in Wisconsin, we knew they had no vested interest in JOBS for America.
LOL Yes, and the DC media continues to appear ever incompetent whenever PBO goes around them and speaks to the American people and the world.
Now it’s Colin powers turn. He is in south Sudan giving George bush credit for south sudans independence.
He was just interviewed on CNN saying, I was here in 2005. When George bush instructed me to sign this accord for independence. And it was George bush who blah blah blah!
Luckily, Susan rice was there as well.
Here we go again. Can’t give credit to this president for anything. Come on Colin!
Now it’s Colin powells turn. He is in south Sudan giving George bush credit for south sudans independence.
He was just interviewed on CNN saying, I was here in 2005. When George bush instructed me to sign this accord for independence. And it was George bush who blah blah blah!
Luckily, Susan rice was there as well.
Here we go again. Can’t give credit to this president for anything. Come on Colin!
Another good read from Steve Benen:http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/political-animal/2011_07/those_bush_tax_cuts_will_work030769.php So many more good things to read there…check it ALL out.
Really? You mean George Clooney was given any credit either? /snark
I’ve got your back Mr. President! Negative words & attitudes from all angles are bouncing off me like Teflon! š
My grandma, Ole, could whistle all the different bird tweets! I liked that about her. And I also like the cool and confident whistling President Obama.
I don’t know, bit is that “drool” I see in the corners of Eric “Teabag” Cantor’s mouth?
That is true, BTW. The one good thing that Bush did in his 8 miserable years, was the way he dealt with Africa. In this case he deserves credit.
Hal spark was on today, and he was saying when the president is this cool he got this and that he is not worried. not only is doing debt ceiling, he found out that Leon Panetta in Afghanistan and they are close to getting the 20 remaining Al Qaeda memeber the way they got Bin laden.
Also the actor Hugh Grant did some covert stuff to help bring Rupert Murdoch down. this was payback for bugging his personal cell phone and bragging about it.
Hitting Rupert where it’ll hurt the most: Ed Miliband will urge MPs to halt Murdoch’s BSkyB takeover.
The subhead is “Labour leader to test the strength of the coalition with Commons motion aimed at stopping buyout in its tracks”. I don’t think the LibDem backbenchers have any great love for Rupert. This should be interesting.
Yes i heard Hal Sparks talking about this.
He knew the magnitude of economy, he did not know the magnitude of the selfish, greedy, GOP, Corporations, Banksters, hedge fundsters, millionaires and billionaires who want him to fail. The recession ended and all the economist found that companies were sitting (and still sitting) on trillions of $’s yet they won’t hire people. They would rather work people to death because no one else was hiring.
The jobless numbers were VERY much affected by huge public employee lay offs. that is in turn going to effect demand and stress out unemployment funds. The GOP and their gloom and doom talk is NOT helping. Also my friends husband is a trucker and he says that businesses are holding back. Why? Good question. I am not an economist.
omg whistling walking BO how I love thee. Wasn’t there pics a few weeks or that weekend before getting rid of BL that our potus was walking and whistling? *waits for awesomeness to occur in 5 4 3 2….. anywho He looks great š
I hope whatever happens to Rupert Murderoch extends to the USA. I hope the FCC can revoke his license here in America.
I have no problem Mr. Bush getting some props. His policies in Africa was one of the things his failed admin can crow about so let them. POTUS would probably have said the same thing.
From my twitter timeline:
RT @demsforprogress: Progressive Caucus DEFENDS President #obama on his Social Security Stance at http://bit.ly/oGqepk
#DemRapidResponse (VIDEO) Jon Huntsman Says “Guilty as Charged” to Ending Medicare as We Know It. http://t.co/v8hlpqP #news #politics #Obama
Must-read article on Rupert: Andreas Whittam Smith: Bullies and cowards who have killed a newspaper ā for nothing.
Bush did a lot in Southern Sudan, mostly back by the Evangelicals who saw Sudanese Christians being victimized by mostly Moslem northerners under Bashir. Prez Obama did not drop the ball on S. Sudan, he expedited the process and saw to it that a free country emerged even as he pressed the international court to indict Bashir for his crimes against Southern Sudanese citizens.
I just received this email:
From: Jeremy Bird, BarackObama.com
Subject: A MILESTONE
Lillie —
THE PRESIDENT’S 50TH BIRTHDAY IS COMING UP ON AUGUST 4TH.
But he doesn’t need a post on his Facebook wall.
THE PRESIDENT HAS BEEN CLEAR THAT WHILE HE FOCUSES ON THE JOB HE WAS ELECTED TO DO, he’s relying on us to get this campaign off the ground.
THE BEST GIFT ANY OF US CAN GIVE HIM IS REAL ORGANIZING TO BRING MORE PEOPLE INTO THIS CAMPAIGN.
So HERE’S A CHALLENGE: Do you think you can bring 50 new people into this campaign for President Obama’s 50th birthday?
YOU DECIDE WHAT SORT OF ORGANIZING IS RIGHT FOR YOU:
— YOU CAN COLLECT 50 “I’M IN” COMMITMENTS;
— YOU CAN INSPIRE 50 DONORS TO GIVE;
— or YOUR CAN GET 50 PEOPLE TO ATTEND A CAMPAIGN EVENT OR EVENTS.
YOU CAN EVEN DO SOME OF EACH. It’s your choice.
IF YOU ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE, click below to get started. Once you start reaching out to people, we’ll help track your progress for you, invite you to a conference call to share tips and encouragement, and let you know as you reach milestones on the way to 50.
Sign up and start making calls to supporters in your area, or choose another action to help grow this campaign. You can start right now…
IT’S IMPORTANT TO CLICK THAT LINK AND LET US KNOW IF YOU ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE.
That’s because WHEN YOU REACH YOUR GOAL OF 50 NEW PEOPLE, WE’LL ENTER YOUR NAME INTO A DRAWING to join the President, his family, and other supporters at his 50th birthday celebration in Chicago next month.
The deadline to reach your goal of 50 new supporters is July 28th, just a few days before the President’s birthday. So let’s get moving — there are 50 people out there who need to hear from you.
PICK WHICH ACTION YOU’D LIKE TO START WITH, and start reaching out to them now:
http://my.barackobama.com/50-for-50
Thanks,
Jeremy
Jeremy Bird
National Field Director
Obama for America
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Let’s celebrate our Prez’s 50th Birthday w/a bang…
By DOin’ SOMETHIN’, one or more of the above!
And, for somethin’ extra, if you can afford it, you can call and leave a message, here:
PBHO’s “Hotline” – (202) 456-1111
HAPPY 50th BIRTHDAY, PBHO! š
YES.WE.CAN…DO.(Much)More, Together!
I’M IN…FIRED UP & GOIN’! š
One thing I am sure of, Cantor is ready to stick a knife in his back. The slimy snake (with apologies to snakes) seems to be doing everything he can to undermine Boehner.
That’s incredible news. It’s so awesome to see Dems on the same page!
Awesome news: our electablog is cross-posting at abl: http://www.angryblacklady.com/2011/07/09/what-the-who-the-eclecta/
I love his work; his Michigan reportage is excellent.
oh that’s great! I always read his blog. Much better than loonie DK
Clooney actually did extraordinary work for Sudan, especially Darfur. He too deserves all the credit he can get. He lobbied media, pressured Western govts and has met prez Obama to push for more support.
That’s great news. Thanks for reporting, jovie.
Clooney deserves the Nobel Peace Prize.
BTW, I’m pretty sure some serious-secret-budget meetings going on Camp David this weekend. I’m pretty sure PBO never went back-to-back to CD.
You got that right…
And, yes WE do!
YES.WE.CAN…DO.(Much)More, Together!
I’M IN…FIRED UP & GOIN’! š
I thought he was referring to not knowing the depth of the recession.
Yes he does. Extraordinary, passionate work for the Sudanese people.
What? Oh happy day!!
Think you’re right….I’m getting excited. In a good way:) I trust him 1 million percent.
Hi guys. Here is a link to PBO’s interview yesterday with a Seattle reporter. Answers lots of questions, made me feel SO much better,. Great interview: Its so refeshing to watch a REAL interview without stupid talking points for questions.
http://www.king5.com/video?id=125177029&sec=549122
Or, you can leave a message, here:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact
That was nice. Thank you. I have so much respect for Jean Enerson. She is unstoppable and one of the most gracious people around.
His advisors gave opinions on the state of the economy prior to and when he was sworn in based on the data at the time.
Once he was sworn in and things developed even after the Stimulus Bill was passed, the real scale of the financial crisis unfolded in 2009 as it bottomed out and the catstrophe was laid bare.
The two statements are not incompatible .
Remember there was a report when President Obama first came into office where one of Bush’s budget guys said they had an “error” in the GDP calculations going back many years, and a correction was made – then all of a sudden we started hearing about how the recession had actually been going on since 2007? Plus, none of the costs of the wars and prescription drug plan and tax cuts had been included in the deficit numbers until President Obama came in and included them. Plus, most economists and finance people ended up not understanding the derivatives market and how the mortgage crisis had even happened – until it was studied and explained about the slicing up of mortgages, bundling and reselling many times over their worth to countries and banks around the world?
Well, all of this ended up in a picture that was so masked and distorted that it took some time to work out all the truth. When the Obama Administration figured out just how bad the picture really was, they were shocked at the far reaching damage. Everybody was.
I just fell off my chair at this one…
That’s right tulips.
///New US Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta is indicating that the recent raid on Osama bin Laden’s compound in Pakistan provided massive amounts of intelligence that may help to defeat the terror organization. NBC’s Atia Abawi reports.///
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/43695301/ns/us_news-security/
Howard Dean also stated on “The Last Word” on Thursday that he liked what the President was doing and that it was very possible to make “cuts” to SS/Medicare/Medicaid without touching any benefits.
Clooney is just a beautiful person – on the inside AND outside!
It was also under George Bush via Powell and Condi Rice that Charles Taylor was pushed out of Liberia, my homeland. For two decades, we were mired in a senseless civil war under that strong man, a Gadaffi protege.
Thankfully, Powell and Rice pushed Bush to apply pressure, forcing Taylor to flee the country. And today his butt sits in jail in The Hague for his crimes against humanity.
That, I give Bush credit and am grateful for.
In Sudan today, I guarantee you those people are just darn happy to have their own homeland. I’d like to wager they are also gratehul to the U.S. for its role in achieving their independence.
Carol – Ditto here! š
Yes, hopefruit2, I heard Howard Dean say that also, and I thought that is good news.
Very nice interview. Thankks for sharing maggy519. I especially appreciated how polite she asked the questions and then allowed the President to answer the questions. Thanks again.
The picture of Obama looks soooooooooooo cool, what he is saying do not worried I got this.
Sudan was a very good news, and yes george Clooney was up fron in Sudan sevaral times, he meet with PBO at the WH to discused Sudan Clooney is a good guy.
Same here Carol and Jacquelineoboomer. I love to see a smart man also being very calm and cool. Just think, the most powerful man in the world, but yet he can move right along and think, chew his gum, and whistle all at once. And you know he is doing some heavy thinking about the meeting on Sunday. I love this President and I have his back also.
I told him that when I met him 2 years ago. I thought I was going to tell him a bunch of stuff. But when I looked into his eyes it was like looking into pools that lead directly to his compassionate soul. It took me back and all I could say was, “Thank you for all you do for us. We’ve got your back.” I’ll never forget his eyes. I’ve still got his back and always will.
So glad I came across your blog. Thanks!
Let’s take a look back at PBHO’s 2011 SOTU. Here are two very interestin’ and thoughtful analyses about that speech:
@MuddyPolitics’ [PRESIDENT] OBAMA SILENCES THE CRITICS, STEALS THE GOP’S THUNDER…
tās easy to analyze the less-than-harsh criticisms of the presidentās state of the union address as the result of some new political awakening, a nod of acknowledgement to the consequences of vitriolic political rhetoric, and a realization ā spurred by the tragic shootings in Tucson ā that there is an obvious link between violent language and violence itself.
Itās possible.
Itās also possible that President Obamaās address was so flawless that it left no room for genuine criticism; that he silenced any potential critiques by not only agreeing with Republican concerns about the debt, about spending and about jobs, but by then countering the fears of Americaās economic decline by proposing practical policies against which even his staunchest opponents couldnāt argue.
OBAMA DIDN’T MERELY STEAL THE THUNDER OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY Tuesday night. HE MARCHED INTO THE IDEOLOGICAL FORTRESS OF THE DEMAGOGUING DEMIGODS AND RIPPED THE LIGHTENING BOLT RIGHT OUT OF THEIR HANDS ā then beat them over the head with it as every member of Congress in the House chamber stood and cheered him on.
IN OUTLINING HIS PLAN TO INCREASE INNOVATION, ACCELERATE EDUCATION AND IMPROVE INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE EVER-COMPETITIVE RACE TOWARD GLOBAL DOMINANCE, OBAMA BALANCED HIS RHETORIC WITH SPECIFIC GOALS TO ACHIEVE THEM.
And Republicans ate it up.
HE PLASTERED DUELING EXPRESSIONS OF FEAR AND WONDER, GUARDED REVELRY AND GOD-FEARING AWE, SKEPTICISM AND ā if I may say so ā āhopeā onto the faces of every Republican member of Congress. AND HE DID IT BY USING THEIR OWN VALUES, THEIR OWN TALKING POINTS, AND THEIR OWN CAMPAIGN GOALS AGAINST THEM…
http://www.muddypolitics.com/2011_01_01_archive.html
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@ArrghPaine’s CALLING OFF THE ‘STRAW DOGS’
Republicans gain political advantage by being better at politics than Democrats. This is a cold hard truth that Democrats are loathe to admit, even to themselves. There are TWO PRIMARY METHODS THAT REPUBLICANS EMPLOY TO LEVERAGE AND CONSOLIDATE THEIR POLITICAL POWER: FIRST, THEY SPEAK TO WEDGE ISSUES that are so emotionally powerful that they separate voters from 90% of their interests and well being for the 10% that motivates them emotionally. SECONDLY, THEY ADVOCATE STRAW DOG SOLUTIONS TO COMPLEX ISSUES creating quick, easily repeatable catch phrases that sound like they might be effective even though they rarely would address more than the smallest fraction of the issue they are deployed against.
In the State of the Union last night PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA TORE UP HALF OF THE REPUBLICAN PLAYBOOK, NOT BY DISPROVING OR REFUTING THE RIDICULOUS STRAW DOGS that the GOP have used to such great effect for years, HE CO-OPTED THEM, EMBRACED THEM KNOWING THAT THEY WON’T SOLVE ANYTHING but also KNOWING THAT THE QUICKEST WAY TO PROVE THAT WE REQUIRED MORE COMPLETE SOLUTIONS is to include the bumper sticker solutions so that they can no longer be used as an excuse. Several examples are below and I would not be at all surprised if I missed a fewā¦
STRAW DOG: āAMERICA HAS ONE OF THE HIGHEST RATES OF CORPORATE TAXES IN THE INDUSTRIALIZED WORLD.ā
FACT: The largest corporations in America pay nothing even remotely approaching the marginal tax rates.
OBAMA: Over the years, a parade of lobbyists has rigged the tax code to benefit particular companies and industries. Those with accountants or lawyers to work the system can end up paying no taxes at all. But all the rest are hit with one of the highest corporate tax rates in the world. It makes no sense, and it has to change. So tonight, Iām asking Democrats and Republicans to simplify the system. Get rid of the loopholes. Level the playing field. And use the savings to lower the corporate tax rate for the first time in 25 years ā without adding to our deficit.
STRAW DOG: FREEZING SPENDING WILL BE EFFECTIVE AT STEMMING DEFICITS.
FACT: Discretionary spending is a small fraction of the budget, cuts or freezes of discretionary spending will have a relatively small impact in relation to the scope of the problem.
OBAMA: We are living with a legacy of deficit-spending that began almost a decade ago. And in the wake of the financial crisis, some of that was necessary to keep credit flowing, save jobs, and put money in peopleās pockets. But now that the worst of the recession is over, we have to confront the fact that our government spends more than it takes in. That is not sustainable. Every day, families sacrifice to live within their means. They deserve a government that does the same. So tonight, I am proposing that starting this year, we freeze annual domestic spending for the next five years. This would reduce the deficit by more than $400 billion over the next decade, and will bring discretionary spending to the lowest share of our economy since Dwight Eisenhower was president. This freeze will require painful cuts. Already, we have frozen the salaries of hardworking federal employees for the next two years. Iāve proposed cuts to things I care deeply about, like community action programs. The Secretary of Defense has also agreed to cut tens of billions of dollars in spending that he and his generals believe our military can do without.
STRAW DOG: TORT REFORM WILL SOLVE SKYROCKETING HEALTH CARE COSTS.
FACT: Medical malpractice costs and the costs of defensive medicine are a tiny fraction of healthcare spendingā¦ Texas has some of the toughest tort reforms and also some of the highest costs per capita for health care.
OBAMA: Health insurance reform will slow these rising costs, which is part of why nonpartisan economists have said that repealing the health care law would add a quarter of a trillion dollars to our deficit. Still, Iām willing to look at other ideas to bring down costs, including one that Republicans suggested last year: medical malpractice reform to rein in frivolous lawsuits.
STRAW DOG: SMALL GOVERNMENT IS BETTER GOVERNMENT.
FACT: Size doesnāt matter, it really is about being effective.
OBAMA: Let me take this one step further. We shouldnāt just give our people a government thatās more affordable. We should give them a government thatās more competent and efficient. We cannot win the future with a government of the past.
STRAW DOG: ELITE DEMOCRATS HAVE NO RESPECT FOR THE MILITARY, NOT WITH THEIR POLICY AND NOT IN THEIR INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION.
FACT: Repeal of DADT proved that Democrats respect the service of ALL those who put on the uniform
OBAMA: Our troops come from every corner of this country ā they are black, white, Latino, Asian and Native American. They are Christian and Hindu, Jewish and Muslim. And, yes, we know that some of them are gay. Starting this year, no American will be forbidden from serving the country they love because of who they love. And with that change, I call on all of our college campuses to open their doors to our military recruiters and the ROTC. It is time to leave behind the divisive battles of the past. It is time to move forward as one nation.
STRAW DOG: EARMARKS ARE EVIL AND WASTEFUL.
FACT: Earmarks are a tool, they are only as evil as the user, also they are a tiny fraction of spending
OBAMA: And because the American people deserve to know that special interests arenāt larding up legislation with pet projects, both parties in Congress should know this: if a bill comes to my desk with earmarks inside, I will veto it.
STRAW DOG: ELITES like the President THAT FIND FAULT WITH AMERICA, HATE AMERICA.
FACT: Caring enough to acknowledge our faults and work to perfect the Union has been the work of patriots for more than 200 years.
OBAMA: And yet, as contentious and frustrating and messy as our democracy can sometimes be, I know there isnāt a person here who would trade places with any other nation on Earth.
BY EMBRACING THE REPUBLICANS RIDICULOUS TALKING POINTS THE GOP IS LEFT WITH NOTHING to be forā¦ THEY HAD NOTHING BEFORE now it is blindingly apparent.
http://www.arrghpaine.com/2011/01/calling-off-the-straw-dogs.html
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Our Prez doesn’t “do things willy-nilly.” He ALWAYS has this Sun Tzu plan, ‘The War of Art’ in mind! lol
Your thoughts?
YES.WE.CAN…DO.(Much)More, Together!
I’M IN…FIRED UP & GOIN’! š
Republicans will can his ass. No question.
then he shouldn’t have been on the trip. Democrats need to know what is being said on behalf of the U.S. government.
This is where the administration is a little naive. Colin Powell is moderate, but his legacy is tied to the Bush administration, not to the Obama administration. There is nothing wrong with vetting what he is going to say.
No way the Bush administration would let someone near the microphone that was going to do damage to his administration.
I see your point. However if that had been true of Clinton initiatives, no way the Bush administration would have put a Clinton official on the plane and in front of the microphone.
We can argue about niceties and in the grand scheme of things Colin Powell crediting Bush is not a big deal. But it’s not the politics Republicans would have used. If there is nothing but credit for your administration hitting the microphone, then that becomes CW — that you are right all the time. It’s smart politics whether we like it or not.
And Colin Powell should say that. Did he? Not just Susan Rice, but Powell. That at least would have been good politics.
Cool! So he’s as conscience-less as Mittens. Good!