"New" Hurricanes Affect Presidential Politics: Gustav and Jeremiah Wright

While all eyes are focused on hurricane Gustav, slated to touch down in New Orleans and dramatically impact the Republican National Convention by raining on Senator John McCain and Governor Sarah Palin's coming out party... another hurricane, by the name of Jeremiah Wright, re-emerged the same day and could drown out the presidency of Senator Barack Obama.

Just when the Republicans had thought the horrible Katrina debacle was finally behind them, Hurricane Gustav, deemed the mother of all storms, charged toward the nation's coast... intent on reminding Americans of how badly President Bush and the GOP legislators dropped the ball. Talk about awful timing.

Off in another part of the country and with far less media attention, Hurricane Jeremiah Wright––the fiery former pastor of Trinity United Christian Church where Obama spent the past 20 years as a member––swept through Houston, Texas, and mentioned Obama in his sermon, causing tongues to wag and re-opening Pandora's box. Talk about awful timing!

Hoping to damp down any potential negative commentary that the catagory 3 Gustav could bring to McCain/Palin's trek to the White House, the GOP hierarchy wisely scaled back opening day activities of the much 'ballyhooed' convention. Not wanting to appear aloof or indifferent to the suffering of the people of Louisiana, McCain and his new V.P., quickly journeyed to Mississippi to demonstrate their commitment and avoid a similar disaster such as occurred three years ago.

Meanwhile, team Obama, still feeling the effects of Rev. Wright's Greatest Hits tapes that were played incessantly on the internet and main line news outlets... and have caused his poll numbers to steady decline since March, did not need Wright to pop back up in the news, or associate himself with Obama at this juncture of the campaign. Even though Obama has distanced himself from his former pastor, Hurricane Wright's glowing comments during a sermon at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church Houston, seems to give a 'quasi-endorsement' of Obama's candidacy and opens the flood gates for a repeat of the incendiary tapes that turned off many white voters. Said Wright of Obama:

"The Lord turned the ordinary into the extraordinary. Y'all just saw it this past week. It was on national television," Wright said to applause. "This ordinary boy just might be, come November, the 4th, this ordinary boy from a single parent home with a daddy from Kenya and a mama from Kansas. This ordinary boy just might be the first president in the history of the United States to have a black woman sleeping at 1600 Pennsylvania, legally."

How Obama's campaign reassures a 'skeptical' populace that he is really through with Wright, while thwarting the avalanche of negative publicity sure to follow these comments... remain to be seen.

In the meantime... two hurricanes, two campaigns... if not handled right, could disastrously affect the Presidential campaign of one of these camps, and determine who sits behind the presidential desk January '09.

**Extra! Extra!** McCain Taps Palin, Woos Clinton Women

Presumptive presidential nominee, John McCain, may have hit pay dirt in his selection of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as his Vice President. Only a maverick as John McCain has the irrefutable reputation and chutzpah to pull off this historic feat: placing the 1st woman ever on the Republican party ticket.

This was an especially energizing and powerful move on the part of McCain, as it was actuated during the week celebrating the anniversary of Women's suffrage in this country. In addition, McCain muzzles any criticism of his choice from the Obama camp on her readiness to hold the highest office in the world, foreign policy experience, or her not being properly vetted or introduced to the American public.

Known as Sarah "Barracuda" Palin, this tough, no nonsense, 44-year old mother of 5 children (including a Downs Syndrome son less than six months old, and a son slated for imminent deployment to Iraq) puts the women's vote back in play... big time! A journalism major, with a minor in politics, she holds a degree from the University of Idaho. She is married (for 20 years) to a native Yup’ik Eskimo, named Todd, and brings a compelling, grassroots, small town story to the political discussion.

Coming out the starting gate giving a hat tip to the women whose shoulders she stands on and who paved the way for her getting the nod: former Vice Presidential candidate Geraldine Ferraro and Senator Hillary Clinton... was a brilliant political move by this self-declared 'hockey mom'. Ferraro immediately released this statement, in what could be viewed as a semi-endorsement of McCain/Palin choice:

"There are a lot of women who are disaffected by how Hillary was treated by the media, by how she was treated by the Obama campaign, by how she was treated by the Democratic National Committee — [Democratic party chairman] Howard Dean not speaking up when sexism raised its ugly head in the media. They’ll be looking to see what happens now".

Now the question is, can and will women––regardless of their party affiliation, and their position on Roe vs Wade––ban together to break through the glass ceiling that Clinton left 18 million cracks in this year? Polls show that 1 in 5 women who supported Hillary Clinton, are committed to voting for McCain in the Fall.

McCain, whose shocking, unexpected pick of Palin seems to have stumped the main line media and pundits. Now, as he begins to release names of potential Cabinet selections in a McCain administration, will bring a comfort level to some men who may be apprehensive to a woman being a 'heartbeat' away from the Oval Office.

This possible smart choice shows that the Arizona Senator is not afraid to challenge Democratic nominee Barack Obama for the much touted "change" mantle, while offering himself as the long time change agent in Washington.

Round 2 goes to McCain!

Obama Draws First Blood On McCain

Officially accepting the mantle as standard bearer of the Democratic party, Senator Barack Obama made history on the final night of the 2008 Democratic Convention. As the first man-of-color to ever lead a major party in this country, Obama took great pains to lay out his definition of "change" before a crowd estimated at 75,000.

Throughout that audience at Invesco Stadium in Denver, grown men were seen with tears welling in their eyes and women openly demonstrated unashamed emotion as he spoke to them. And Obama... in classic Obama style, delivered the speech of his life on the anniversary of the famous "I Have A Dream" speech, which was given 45 years to the day, by the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Setting aside the lofty rhetoric of his days running against Hillary Clinton in the primaries, the 47-year old junior senator from Illinois outlined his plan for this country. He struck all the right chords and hit all the key points: education, health care, national security, the economy. Obama's acceptance speech not only served to answer his critics that he has a vision for America, but he drew first blood on his GOP opponent, John McCain, with this sure to be remembered in-your-face statement:

"The times are too serious, the stakes are too high for this same partisan playbook. So let us agree that patriotism has no party. I love this country, and so do you, and so does John McCain. The men and women who serve in our battlefields may be Democrats and Republicans and Independents, but they have fought together and bled together and some died together under the same proud flag. They have not served a Red America or a Blue America, they have served the United States of America.

So I’ve got news for you, John McCain. We all put our country first".

Indeed, Obama's carefully framed speech has taken the fight for the White House to a new level... saying to Senator McCain that he is ready to get down and dirty during this final leg of what is sure to be a major slug-fest for the highest office in the land... and where the last man standing gets the spoils!

First round goes to Obama.

[Note: vberryhill-soulvoice.blogspot.com will also post a daily blog of key events of the Republican National Convention throughout next week]

Bill Clinton, Joe Biden Frame the Argument For Obama's Readiness

President Bill Clinton pushed all the right buttons, hit all the politically correct talking points, as he spoon-fed Republican 'red meat' to the Democratic faithful in Denver. Going way beyond the ten minutes alloted him, it was Clinton who finally set a theme for this Convention. In addition, he forcefully made a case for presumptive presidential nominee Barack Obama as being ready to be the Commander-in-Chief.

It was apparent––from the half-hearted claps that echoed through the Convention Hall as Clinton cheerled for Obama––that the division within the Democratic party was not elimanated during this week of rallying-round-the-flag-pole. His biggest applause came with his comment:

He [Obama] will work for an America with more partners and fewer adversaries. He will rebuild our frayed alliances and revitalize the international institutions which help to share the costs of the world’s problems and to leverage our power and influence. He will put us back in the forefront of the world’s fight to reduce nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons and to stop global warming", said the 42nd President of the United States.

Vice Presidential nominee Joe Biden came to the podium and used his oratory skills to humanize the Convention, often bringing tears to the eyes of many attendees as he gave recognition to this mom, wife, two sons, daughter, and his humble upbringing. Biden, a consummate speaker, only made one gaffe during his speech when he almost inserted the name of George [Bush] where he meant to say McCain.

Calling presumptive Republican nominee, John McCain, his friend and emphasizing him as a 'hero' who made a great sacrifice for this nation... Biden went on to attack his buddy–– encouraing the crowd to echo the McCain-bashing slogan of the evening: "Not change... more of the same". His case against McCain's judgment rang a bit hollow, in that Biden too voted for the war in Iraq, to fund the troops and many of the other national security measures that his pal McCain voted for as well.

The 65-year old Delaware Senator, capped off his acceptance speech by saying the world will trust America again if Barack Obama is elected President, and was later joined on stage by the Democratic nominee, to the hoopla of the crowd.

*****2008 DNC CONVENTION: HILLARY, THE NEW HARRIET*****

Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton used her moment at the 2008 Democratic Convention to transpose herself into a modern day freedom fighter, Harriet Tubman. Hillary is now the new Harriet.

Speaking on the 88th anniversary of Women's right to vote, Clinton, whose biggest applause came with those code words to her supporters to "Never Give Up"... she left the door wide-open for her comeback in 2012. The shrewd politician that she is, Clinton rendered the bare minimum "rah-rah" vote-Obama-in- November. She mentioned Obama's name only ten times during her speech, and that mostly as an after thought–– tagging his name on at the end of a sentence where she championed her accomplishments, and basically challenged him to do what she has done.

An odd moment in Clinton's presentation was her reference to, and tepid assault on war hero, "friend" and "colleague" John McCain. It was unusual that she never once refuted her statements which are being used in the popular McCain 3am ads, that Senator Obama is not ready to be Commander-in-Chief. That she didn't pull that claim back... knowing that millions would be tuned in to hear her speech, leaves those words hanging in the air and offers further authenticity to the McCain campaign!

But, overall, this was one of the best speeches Hillary has delivered in her career. It will be remembered for what 'was' and what 'wasn't' said...

*****2008 DNC CONVENTION MICHELLE OBAMA*****

Michelle Obama delivered a dynamic opening night speech... setting a clear, "we are family" tone for the 2008 Democratic Convention. The wife of presumptive presidential nominee, Barack Obama, did what she needed to do, which was to reintroduce herself and, in her own style and words, present who she is to the American public.

After having endured a rough and bumpy start in the media the past few months, Michelle Obama spoke of their family's down home roots, her deep love for her children, and her admiration and love for her husband during her fiery keynote address in Denver.

Giving a hat tip to Senator Hillary Clinton and making a forthright effort to appease the 18 million people who voted for her husband's chief rival, Mrs. Obama said:

"I stand here today at the crosscurrents of that history - knowing that my piece of the American Dream is a blessing hard won by those who came before me. People like Hillary Clinton, who put those 18 million cracks in the glass ceiling, so that our daughters - and sons - can dream a little bigger and aim a little higher."

All in all, Michelle Obama demonstrated that she is one tough sister-girl, who will not waver, become weak-in-the-knees or bow at crunch time!

According to Christine Warnke, a Washington, DC attorney and superdelegate to the convention:

"Michelle electrified this place. You could see on the faces of many of the women in the arena that she was connecting with them, as quite a few were moved to tears. Michelle was charismatic, yet graceful. And her overall presence was powerful. She came off extremely well. I think, if given the chance to serve as America's First Lady, she will work tirelessly to break that stained glass ceiling for minorities and for women".

*****2008 DNC CONVENTION UPDATE*****

The suspense is over! Joseph Biden, Jr. has been tapped to round out the 2008 Democratic ticket. Presumptive presidential nominee, Barack Obama's selection of Biden as his Vice Presidential choice signals his attempt to hopefully bring those white, blue collar Appalachia corridor voters to his side.

Biden, the 66-year old Senator from Delaware, has been a pillar in Washington, DC politics for more than 35 years. Best known for off-the-cuff, one-line/one-word 'zingers', (many of which have gotten him in hot water in the past) Biden's foreign policy experience is what he is most respected for.

Having run for the highest office in the land twice before, in 1988 and 2008, Biden's unsuccessful attempts to offer his services as President of the United States can largely be attributed to his message mangling and then media muckraking. Biden, a Roman Catholic who is married to "drop-dead gorgeous wife", Jill, and is the father of three, will accept his party's nomination on Wednesday night of the convention.

A man who has prided himself on 'saying what he means and standing by what he says', an unscripted Biden has often been a magnet for media irritation. It will be interesting to see how he will be subject to Obama.

More telling will be how Obama's selection of Biden––although the best choice he could have made considering his V.P. short list possibilities–– will now require he and his team to revamp his entire message/theme during these final 70+ days of this election. By choosing the beltway-insider, long term senator, Biden... Obama has officially desecrated his "Change" and "Hope" mantra, which was the single and only mojo he had working for his campaign... and what had really propelled him to the political sphere he has been operating from the past 18 months.

The eyes of the nation will watch closely this week during the Convention to hear and see what the new brand will be for the Obama/Biden ticket.

Is An Obama/Clinton Head-Fake In the Making?

The long, drawn-out process to select the Democratic nominee for the office of President of the United States of America will finally conclude next week in Denver. This 4-day gathering brings together all of the party faithful, Super Delegates, and many national, state, and local level Democratic elected officials under one big tent. At the conclusion of this 2008 Covention, presumptive nominee, Senator Barack Obama, is expected to walk away as the big kahuna. (Note the keyword "expected". Because as long as there is breath in Hillary Clinton's body, she still has a possibility to snatch this nomination right from under him, or be on the ticket as V.P.)

In this political year, where nothing seems to be what it is––Up is now down; Black is white; the best candidate is painted as the worst and vice versa–– conspiracy theories abound. And claims that there is a dead rat somewhere in the mix, are rampantly circulating.

Take for instance the unusual and unexplained 'ceremonial' roll call vote Obama is granting Hillary Cinton on the night he is to accept his party's nomination. Unless she is the selected V.P. on this year's ticket... ceding that much ground to her and Bill is not justified.

Then, supposedly after this non-binding first round vote call is complete, Clinton in turn is expected to play nice, and keep her word and cast any and all her delegates from this play-acting vote, back to Obama? Everybody leaves unified, happy and ready to rumble! That is either the biggest hoax or... to quote Bill Clinton, a big "fairy tale."

Coming off a disastrous non-debate at Saddleback Church against Republican nominee John McCain, lackluster performances at recent town hall/campaign rallies, and a continual drop in his poll numbers since mid-March–– where McCain is up by 5 points today... Obama must choose that someone who can bring back excitement to his campaign. And, none of the current Veeps leaked to the media as being on Obama's short list: Kaine, Biden, Bayh or Sebelius, have the necessary 'juice' to aid in a victory for the Democratic team in November. Obama, who didn't get where he is by being naive or stupid, has probably known from day one that Hillary goes on the ticket, or he loses in the Fall.

Was that the game plan all along? Presidential contender Ralph Nader, who has long been dubbed a political spoiler, may have been telegraphing the "planned" Democratic ruse in the following news release:

"Obama may dislike Hillary, but will conclude he has no choice but to get over it if he hopes to leave next week’s convention in Denver with a unified party and a decent shot against John McCain in the fall: The polls show 25 percent of her supporters have not gotten on board.”

Chiming in to echo Nader's claim, is longtime Clinton loyalist and choice supporter, Lynn Forester/Lady de Rothschild, who was quoted in an international newspaper as saying:

"My loyalty is to the Democrats winning. Barack Obama is going to have a serious problem getting elected, for good reason. The party needs to face the fact that without Hillary Clinton on the ticket, the Democrats will probably lose.”

So, if the Obama/Clinton strategy from the onset was to play out this enemy/adversary or "good cop, bad cop" drama all the way to the end... only to come together, display a huge show of unity at the convention, and leave Denver as a cohesive team... that would be a brilliant, well-executed strategy. Then, the Denver speaking line-up would begin to actually make sense: spotlight on Michelle Obama on Monday, Hillary on Tuesday, Bill Clinton on Wednesday, and Obama on Thursday. Talk about the 2008 Presidential/Vice Presidential team on display right before our very eyes each night! All that's left is to drop the Red, White and Blue balloons.

If this has been the strategy for the Democrats to win back the White House, it would be the biggest bamboozlement, in-your-face to the Republican party in modern history–– and would catch the GOP totally off-guard. Or, as Dan Gerstein, a Democratic consultant from New York so aptly phrased it:

“If he [Obama] determines that Hillary after all is the best choice to help him to win and to govern, they are capable of pulling off what would be the greatest head fake in American political history.”

Above His Pay Grade? Did Obama Say That?

The Saddleback political forum, which was hosted by Pastor Rick Warren and featured presumptive nominees Barack Obama and John McCain, will be remembered as the night the momentum shifted in the 2008 election. News outlets have been wondering out loud where the Evangelicals have been in this year's presidential race? For the past 18 months, these sleeping lions have not come out in force to rally around either of the major party presidential hopefuls. Speculation has been that many, who supported George W. Bush in 2000 and 2004, may stay home in November... letting this year's election chips (or dimpled, hanging chads) fall where they may.

Well, the mighty 'roar' heard in many faith communities across the nation the day after Pastor Warren's Faith and Values non-debate, was the sound of Evangelicals who have been jarred from their dens of comfort, and will begin interjecting their voices and presence into this election cycle now... by Golly!

What was the game changer? Senator Barack Obama's answer versus John McCain's answer to Pastor Warren's question: "At what point does a baby get human rights in your view"?

McCain stated, in no uncertain terms:

"At the moment of conception."

Contrast that to Obama's eye-popping response... one that he can rest assured will hound him through November 5th:

"Well, I think that whether you are looking at it from a theological perspective or a scientific perspective, answering that question with specificity, you know is above my pay grade."

"Above his pay grade?" Now critics can berate Pastor Warren and challenge that question as a 'trick question" or a "question tailor-made" for Senator McCain, the Republican. But Obama had to know when he accepted the invitation to appear at this event that two issues are guaranteed to mobilize the evangelical base: keeping the homefront safe from radicals and terrorists... and what a future president thinks about the lives of innocent, unborn babies in this country.

And, because many Americans really don't know or trust Obama, some tuned into this much-hyped forum to evaluate him specifically... but both the candidates as well, side-by-side. Why no abortion policy statement handy? Or a well thought-out answer justifying whatever his position is or will be, ready to articulate to the American people in anticipation of this question?

But for Obama to present this "Above my pay grade" answer as meaningful thought in the political debate added insult to injury? Was it intended as a flippant retort? Was it supposedly a bad joke that went wrong? Whatever his reason or rationale... that remark is out there now, and... like toothpaste out of the tube... it can't be retracted.

The abortion conversation is certain to be a front and center wedge issue in this election. And Obama's ill-prepared 'pay grade' remark, forces those in bloggersville to further scrutinize all of his abortion voting records as an Illinois State Senator, and any positions on the subject that he has articulated for the past 20 years, to circulate to the millions of evangelicals... who, by the way, won't be sitting this election cycle out now, for sure!

McCain To Take-On Obama "Mano y Mano"

Barring some unforseen occurrence––such as a last ditch mutiny effort on the part of the powerful PUMAs; the Denver Group; or other Hillary Clinton supporters––Senator Barack Obama seems on his way to becoming the first Black man in the history of this nation to successfully complete the 'initial' hurdle in the U.S. presidential process to secure his party's nomination. Few can argue that he has run a near flawless campaign against one of the most well-oiled political machines of this era––the Clintons.

In less than two weeks, Obama will begin competing to cross the 'second' hurdle in his quest for the highest office in the land. And this General Election playing field, where no Black has ever gone before, will pit an untested, fly-by-the-seat-of-his-pants Southside Chicago outsider against the been/there done/that, no-holds-barred-Republican... John McCain!

Obama's comments that McCain, and his Grand Old Party members would use 'race' to eclipse his historic run toward the 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue address, demonstrates his gross miscalculation of the battle he is about to undertake. The Republicans could not attack Obama from a racial frontal position. That would have been a lose-lose strategy, in that the Republican party... the party of Lincoln... is predominately white.

The Republicans are too shrewd to waste time or energy attacking that meager 12.5% African-Negroid portion of Obama's ethnic make-up. Look for them to take it to Obama just as they would any other White contender–– because he is 50% white. The strategy, more than likely, will be to force Obama–– for the first time in his adult life–– to lay aside the victimhood, affirmative action shtick that many whites feel he has milked extensively to get where he is today. (Remember the words of Geraldine Ferraro in the primary).

John McCain has already telegraphed how he plans to take Obama on: "white man to white man". How deftly did McCain (to the chagrin of party hacks) rebuke colleagues who mentioned Obama's middle name early on in the campaign. And his recent slapping the race card off-the-table for the duration of the contest when Obama tried to use it in Florida and again in Missouri. The general rule appears to be: "No references to race, nor preferences because of race will be tolerated by McCain". Rather... the presumptive Republican nominee will just pretend Obama is a white man with a 'deep tan' and proceed to try and 'annihilate' him as if he were any other competitor.

By making Obama fight the remaining 80-days of this race as white men fight will mean he won't be allowed to whine about the rules of engagement, or complain about the sure-to-come hits below the belt, such as the mountains of scandalous information already on ice and in the deep freezer about Obama/Soetoro waiting to be released. Neither can the media or other entities with no-quarter-in-this-dollar be permitted to jump in to try and save or 'influence' the outcome. Those primary race antics just won't happen!

No... the second and final hurdle in the race for the White House will be won or lost on this plane: "mano y mano".

Can Obama or McCain Think Outside the Box?

The rumor mills are rife as to who this year's presidential candidates will select to fill the coveted Vice Presidential positions on their tickets. As the national Democratic and Republican conventions are fastly approaching, speculations continue to swirl that both Senators Obama and McCain may make unprecedented moves and reach across the aisle to select a running mate.

A Republican senator from Nebraska, Chuck Hagel's name is being tossed about as being on the short list of Democratic hopeful Obama... while long-time friend, confidant and Connecticut senator, Joe Lieberman's name is being bantered about as GOP nominee McCain's choice. Talk about throwing the 2008 Presidential election into a tailspin and risking Blue States turning Red and Red States possibly turning Blue! If such a scenario should indeed happen, it would be a political quagmire and throw the electorate into a perplexing conundrum.

Just how would an Obama/Hagel versus McCain/Lieberman showdown really be received to a voting population who says they prefer an end to partisan bickering and unity of this nation? And... more importantly, how would a very liberal Obama work with a staunch conservative like Hagel... and can a semi-conservative McCain realistically share power with the quasi-liberal Lieberman? Either of these pairings would be viewed as an insult by the loyalists in their respective parties, but seen as a bold move–– signaling a forward 'thinkingness' on the part of Obama or McCain to the all-too capricious independent and swing voters.

This being an unusual election year, and with a growing divide in the country at this time, the candidate with the chutzpah to couple with someone of a totally different political persuasion may be able to pull off such a feat... and also win points among those in the heartland of America.

While such a daring reach-across-the-aisle move is not new and has been tried unsuccessfully before (history buffs often refer to the ill-defined administration of President John Adams/Vice President Thomas Jefferson) this noble effort could make this 'history-making' election season even more unique and controversial.

Without a doubt, it would take a self-assured, confident leader––one who could withstand the harsh and relentless criticism from all sides–– to put forth a bi-partisan, Democrat/Republican, power sharing Presidential ticket for the first time in this generation. Well, who knows... McCain or Obama may be that sort of leader.

Far-fetched as it may seem... this may be the time for one (or both) of these Presidential wanna-bes to "think outside the box" ... and this may just be what is needed to coalesce this nation to move an agenda forward for the good of the people!

**REDUX** It's All About Transparency, Character, Judgment

In light of recent earth moving changes which dominate the media: Senator John Edwards baby-mama-drama, Russian/Georgia conflict, Congress leaves town without voting on oil drilling, the potential announcement of a VP candidate via "text messaging"... this blog is being reposted as a reminder of what this election will rest on. There are 85 days remaining in this contest...

One irrefutable lesson learned from the Clinton/Obama Democratic primary is that in this election cycle the American public care more about "character, judgment and tranparency" than "Experience". Senator Hillary Clinton test-drove the tired old experience model for several months against Senator Obama's bright, shiny new "Change/Hope" machine and was resoundingly rebuffed. (So, why would the McCain camp double-back with that same old rejected "experience" template in the General Election–– especially after seeing where it got Clinton?) What? So, if a man says he has "experience" it will somehow resonate better than if a woman says it?

Anyway, the experience dog is dead. Bury it!

The mood in the nation now is who–– between McCain and Obama–– has, and will, demonstrates true character, judgment and transparency. Voters on both sides of the political fence are tired of its leaders lying to them... pretending to be one way when they are not... saying one thing to a particular group, then, act or say something totally different to another crowd. People are weary of these behaviors, which is perhaps the reason Senator Obama has not gotten the expected "bump" in his poll numbers since clinching his party's nomination.

These lackluster poll numbers indicate there are questions in the minds of the people as it pertains to Obama. Questions about his 'Character and Judgment' are a major factor. What other reason would explain his losses in white, rural, working class communities, such as Pennsylvania, Kentucky, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, and South Dakota; and his dramatic loss of appeal in Jewish areas and white suburban bedroom towns since early March.

From feed-back received to this blog, the voting public want more transparency as it relates to this presumptive Democratic nominee. For instance... the blogging community wants to see any, and all, of Senator Obama's Illinois State Senate daily logs, pertinent papers, records, etc.

Because the Senator has literally come out of no where onto the national stage... a request of his State Senate diaries, logs, and records is fair. The excuses from his camp continue to mount... and still limited amount of his records have been produced, and is raising eyebrows and casting doubt. The Republicans are going to hound Obama on this issue until he produces them. So... go ahead and bring the files out now!

And, there are others who repeatedly request he produce an original, authentic, officially-signed birth certificate for the world to see. What's the big deal... and why won't he come clean and show it? All of the "it's-none-of-your-business-drama" surrounding that request is a smoke-screen.

What will the actual birth certificate reveal? That Obama was born illegitimate? So what. He is not the first... nor will he be the last illegitimate birth in the world. That his race maybe listed as 'Caucasian'? Non-issue! His skin tone reflects he's Black... Put the real birth certificate out there–– sooner rather than later–– and let the chips fall where they may.

Transparency is important. And, while Obama's brother, sister, childhood acquaintances, teachers, and veiled references by his own account in his much acclaimed books indicate he was raised Muslim...he says he was not. Therein is a 'red flag' raised. These are the questions folks in bread-basket America want to know before they feel comfortable giving him their trust.

Obama is applying for the highest job in the land, and the American public–– who is his boss and will be his employer (should he be elected) has every right to demand to see and verify any and everything pertinent to the would-be employee. Hemming, hawing, and stalling only fuels rumors... and no amount of smear-debunk websites can kill a rumor once it has legs and starts moving.

Consequently, Obama's policy positions on taxes, energy, education, and would-be appointments to the Supreme court will continue to fall on deaf ears until the character, judgment and transparency issues have been put to rest to the satisfaction of his perspective bosses: the American people.

Original post: June 18, 2008

Your comments are welcomed.

Bill Clinton Is Still a Slick-'un!

As they say here in the South... "watch that Bill Clinton... he is a slick-'un"! How best was this phrase demonstrated than during his recent interview on ABC news... where his comments continue to generate incessant rumors at the grass root level, regarding Senator Obama's constitutional qualifications for the office of President. Clinton, the masterful dean and inventor of message innuendo said, when asked by ABC correspondent Snow about Obama being completely qualified to be President:

"The Constitution sets qualifications for the president, and then the people decide who they think would be the better president".

Why didn't #42 just state a resounding "Yes, he is" ... or a conclusive "No, he's not", when asked that question? Surely Bill Clinton understands that this statement would further fuel the constant, nagging drag on Obama––and subsequent tanking poll numbers of Obama––because of the junior Senator from Illinois' refusal to produce his original, signed, certified birth certificate. Was President Clinton signaling a hidden meaning in his "... Constitution sets qualifications for the president..." remark that he has also bought into the wide-spread notion that Obama is hiding something by not being transparent and revealing his birth records?

While it's true the former president is busy championing his cause in Africa... but is he, or his aides, aware that he fed right into "web chatter"? Did he not know that bloggersville is abuzz with these 'daily' and 'hourly' conspiratorial posts:

Was Obama born in the US... Does he have dual citizenship in Indonesia and US... Was he legally adopted by his Indonesian step-father whereby his legal name on his birth certificate is Barry Soerto... Was his mama legally married to his daddy at birth... Or was he born illegitimate (as Michelle O hinted a few weeks back)... Is he part Arab by nationality... Was he listed as Muslim by religion...?

Clinton had to know that these are "real time" questions that dominate cyberspace–– and cyberspace is where this year's electorates are getting their information and forming their opinions for the General Election. It also should be noted that presumptive GOP nominee, John McCain, whose qualifications for the presidency were also questioned early-on in the contest, presented his original birth certificate to the media, and received an official ruling that his birth in the Panama Canal does not disqualify his run for the highest office in the land.

For sure... the shrewdness of Clinton's now-famous 'Constitution/qualification' remark did not help an already-wary-public put to rest these Obama birth certificate rumors. As a matter of fact, by virtue of his authority... he gave futher credence to them. Well, if this birth-certificate-'Constitution/qualification' issue is not sorted out before the Democratic Convention in two weeks, Obama can believe that the Republicans (who won't let the birth certificate issue go uncontested... nor let it hang like an overcast cloud) will mop the 50-State map up with him every day until he produces it, then, move on to the main blood bath through November 4th.

What Does Race Have To Do With Running a Country?

During this historic election, how often has the question been asked, “Are Americans really ready for a Black president?” And how many times has the answer to the statement been: “Yes We Are Ready... It’s time!”

While this is a great conversational question... a more appropriate question, and one which hasn’t been 'asked' or answered frequently enough in this political debate is: “What does race have to do with running a country?”

Most Americans, whether old, young, Black, White, Latino, Jew, Christian, Islam, etc., wake-up every morning to confront some very real personal issues and concerns in their lives. Thus, our next President’s ethnicity or nationality doesn’t even register a blip on most voter’s radar screen.

With that question as the premise: “What does race have to do with running a mortgage company?” With a deepening mortgage crisis threatening the very core of our nation... does the mortgage company care the race of the mortgage holder? No! Lenders could care less about race. Most just want the note paid, and paid on time... or, if not, move.

Also... “What does race have to do with running a gas station?” Tell Mr. and Mrs. John/Jane Q. Public–– many of whom are robbing "Peter-to-pay-Paul" just to keep gas in the car. When these voters pull their automobiles into the local gas stations, where gas prices are edging $4 per gallon... does the gasoline station attendant, oil producers, or petroleum companies really care the ethnic origin of 'that' consumer? NOT! (As a matter of fact, at the gas pump everybody is equal: equally being treated or (mistreated) the same).

Wake up American baby boomers, seniors, and generation X’ers! We are at a pivotal time in this nation. And far too much energy is being spent on the subject of 'race', 'race-baiting', and 'race-hating'. This is our country! And, if the United States goes under on our watch, then all of us, regardless of our race, creed, or color, are going to drown together!

Let's focus on resuscitating our failing economy, reducing our dependence on foreign oil, and lifting this nation back to the great country we have long been known-to-be. Now, to do that requires us all putting aside racial, and other differences–– sacrificing and working together as a cohesive group... as 'one' people united for the common good.

In addition, we must select a leader from the candidates currently running. Will McCain or Obama be the most competent, efficient Captain to lead America through this difficult period? Who––of the two major party candidates–– can and will take the helm of this ship and navigate us through the stormy waters we find ourselves in? Who will Americans trust this fragile nation to the next 4 years? That's the question... and, race should not be of any relevance whatsoever!”

McCain/Obama: It's About to Get UGLY!

While Americans "say" they prefer campaigns based on issues, meaningful debate, and substance, and many claim they abhor mudslinging gutter politics... don't believe it for one second! Quite to the contrary, the American public–– and this includes Democrats, Independents, and Republicans––salivate and literally feed on dirty ads and low-road campaign tactics.

It's unfortunate, but the more obscene, dirtier, and contemptible campaign ads are of late, the more likely a 'win" for the candidate whose campaigns promote them. With that said, look for the next 90-days to be one of the nastiest, slime-riddled, sewer-resembled presidential elections in history. During an earlier blog post, it was noted that Barack Obama and John McCain already had a vitriolic history, and exhibited disdain for each other long before now:

... my hunch is that the next 6-months is going to be brutal. The prevailing wisdom suggests there remains bad blood from the [McCain/Obama] Ethics Reform break-down and the Flak Jacket heated exchange. And any promise by these two of rising above the usual divisive, negative, detrimentally damaging politics of destruction was just the same-old-same-old Washington, DC political posturing in an effort to look noble! www.vberryhill-soulvoice.blogspot.com/May 9, 2008

Well, so much for the pretense and promised pre-General Election political posturing by these two. As in any gladiatorial contest, the fight is to-the-death, with the last man standing (bloody as he may be) the victor. It's sad that the primary reason these vile ads and untoward behaviors by the candidates are unchallenged and allowed to pollute the 'spirit' of the electoral process, is the cheering fans/electorates "love" the mayhem and the gore, and the networks make millions of dollars.

Let's admonish the faint of heart, and political do-gooders right now. It's best to turn your televisions off beginning today, as the contest leading up through November is NOT going to be pretty, whatsoever. Both sides know that too much is at stake for a patty-cake fight this year.

So... just as soon as Obama officially clinches the Democratic nomination, and Senator Hillary Clinton has successfully been removed from even the most remote possibility of being the Democrat's representative in the Fall... look for the Republicans to unleash the 'kitchen', 'bathroom' and 'laundry room' sinks––a furor unmatched in the history of politics––on Obama.

And... not to be out done, the Obama camp, Moveon.org, and others will have to get down in the trenches and get 'blood' on their hands as well, or get mowed down mercilessly by the opposition. The Democratic 527's groups will have no choice but to counter with some of the meanest, filthiest ads of their own, leveled against McCain. All while the voters feign repulsion... but talk around the water coolers about who has the best of the worst ads!

You've been forewarned! Just get ready for a long, hot bath from November to swearing-in day, January '09. But... even then, the stench from this election cycle will be too pungent to be permanently removed from our nation's history for a long time...


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