Mitt Romney Style (Gangnam Style Parody)

This is dead ass wrong but funny as hell!

Party This Weekend at 1600!

Since I really haven't been blogging much in 2012, there's been not much political thought on the Presidential Race (and now WIN) for 44! Like most folks, Tuesday night was filled with anticipation, dread, mixed thoughts, and concern about the potential winner. Lord thank GOODNESS there's still some sense in America. Yes there's plenty of criticism of the Obama Administration, but looking at the possibility of spending four years under a Romney Plan (or lack thereof) was a pill our country couldn't swallow. The voice of the people has been heard. Like it or not, you need to move past the bullsh*t and work with the President.

I'm oh-so-glad the President achieved a second term. Hell, he deserves it. As I've plenty times this year, it took Bush eight years to fuck up the country, Obama can't solve it just four! Amen. The road ahead is gonna be long. Who knows what shenanigans the GOP has in store. I image the same old shuck and jive bullshit will continue. Hopefully, President Obama will take a lesson from across the aisle and use their same tactics to get a Democratic Agenda accomplished. The political gridlock needs resolved regarding the economy, unemployment, and general stability of the US. Lord I hope we can get through this! I know we can if folks can work together. It's time for Washington to suck it up and get to business.

Ye Olde Iowa

Well after weeks of hearing politicos go on and on about it, it's finally here. The Iowa Caucus. Admittedly, I must have fallen asleep in Government 101 back in high school because I couldn't tell you the different between a caucus or a primary, or why Iowa is so important.

The GOP contenders are set and they say crazy ass Rick Santorum had been ranking in the top three for a while. God I hope not. Ask anybody from PA what they think of Santorum and you'll they side eye glance... Honestly though, nobody really takes a shine to being a good leader. What do we have? A few homophobes, a philanderer, a racist, a dollop of idiots, and each and every one ready to crush the middle class and working poor at any opportunity. Hm. Sounds WONDERFUL for the 45 President of the United States, eh?

2012 is going to be an interesting year politically speaking. I wonder how much will actually get accomplished or will the Right continue to block and delay bills and measures up until November? Like most Americans, I'm not satisfied with Congress. I don't necessarily think it's all 44's fault. Yes the Prez has made mistakes, but when you have the GOP purposely trip up the man, well, you can't place blame on the man solely. I'm just sayin'.

So anyway. There's my two cents worth on politics today.

Coming Home To Roost

Poor Herman. "Brutha" just can't catch a break. But then as I've heard, he shouldn't blame racism, right? Hmph. I've kept my mouth shut until now.

Until his scandal came out the woodwork, I seriously thought the Party of Hate might nominate Cain as their presidential nominee, but with evidence pointing information about Cain's alleged harassment improprieties was released from someone in his own party...well I guess they were trying to make sure that doesn't happen.

For the most, I ignore Herman Cain. In contest between him and Obama, does Cain honestly believe he'd beat 44? HONESTLY? I'm jus' asking the question. If he says 'yes," there's definitely an inflated ego goin' on, IMHO.

So, will Herman bounce back from all of this? Will he achieve the golden prize of the GOP nomination? As a friend of mine is apt to say, "All is yet to be revealed....."

MED Thoughts on "44" (Thanks, Rippa!)

I saw this over on Rippa's blog, and I give brother full credit for his post! Please be sure to review the original article on The Intersection Of Madness And Reality. I'm re-posting here because it got this brutha to think and this certainly is a must v-cast for any Barack Obama supporter/advocate. Wanted to give others the opportunity to reflect and respond on Michael Eric Dyson's thoughts as well...

Do you agree or disagree with Dr. Dyson? Read my comment and response to Rippa below after viewing the clip.

"Wow! I was really ready to throw down and defend Mister "44," who I love and respect no matter what the staunchest critics say about him, but Dr. Dyson was dead on. Unfortunately, Dr. D speaks the truth, really, that to the older generations, having a black president may not matter! Washington is just a hot bed of game,contention, and mess. Pander to my neighbor so I can get what I need for my constituents or my own self interests. I'm not saying the President isn't a good man or without altruistic intentions, but let's accept there's going to be issues he'll sidetrack, back peddle, and perhaps, completely overlook for a time, until he's comfortable with the impact he's made on the majority (translation white people).

The President has to straddle a difficult fence. I don't envy him, but again, I agree with Dr. Dyson Black people shouldn't give him a "free pass." He needs to be held accountable. Believe me, as a gay black man, I'm watching and hearing the rumblings the Gay Community is having with Obama for not fulfilling his promise to LGBTQ community over DADT (Don't Ask, Don't Tell) and other equal rights for gays. They/we're certainly are holding him up to his word. They/we are demanding he honor his obligation he campaigned.

Should certain issues be sacrificed for the time being? Which issues need to go first? Does a lack to act firmly on minority issues mean "44' has forgotten about us? I don't think so. He has so much on his plate, but I think Obama wants to reach out universally, not to just one community or the other, which means some in the minority (issues) will get overlooked. Is it right? Hell, no. But it's P-O-L-I-T-I-C-S!

Here's a personal question I need to ask. As someone who understands what it's like to be multiracial, how is the whole matter of race, ethnicity, and identity seen by the POTUS? For himself? I've seen interviews. Does he relate as an American? Or does he HAVE TO because we've given Obama the "Black" label, strictly identify as Black (or African American in the truest sense)? We all know he's biracial, "mixed" as we used to say, but grew up in a different set of circumstances than your average African American. I wonder...

Now we've heard the jokes...when the President makes a mistake or slights Black folk, blame it on his "White" half. Is it fair that we hold him to a standard that he has to be 100% in our corner? Honestly? I wanna say he should because if he didn't have the labels in front of his name...Professor, Senator, Mr. President...you know the racists would just see him as another "n" word. I don't know. America speaks with forked tongue no matter what the community, what the ethnic group, we all expect something from this President that he may or may not be able to achieve.

I accept that he'll need to not offend white people, who to be sure, many will accuse him of giving hand outs and freebies to "us" (Black folk) just because of his race. HOWEVER... like Dr Dyson indicated, each of the 43 Presidents preceding Mr. Obama looked out for their "own people," it just wasn't necessarily said because they were of the "majority." And Mr. Obama wants a second term. What President hasn't? So he's gotta play the game, back peddle in some areas, to insure he doesn't offend and hurt feelings to hinder a second term. Is this right? No, but is the nature of the beast. That's why I hate Politics. Ultimately, no matter who the politician, their best intentions, isn't it all about personal gain and legacy?"

44 Got Hungry

I know this clip has been posted on other blogs already, but I saw this last night and was gonna post, but got too tired. I like how they "supposedly" just jumped in their car and ran out for a quick jaunt, waited in line like er'rybody else, and actually paid for their meal. First of all, you know Secret Service was there five months in advance casing the the joint for any suspicious threats, then every employee had a thorough background check to the Nth degree... lawdhavmercy! Nothing surrounding our beloved President just happens "by chance." Nothing.

Negro Please!

And ewwwww! Why 44 frontin' like that? We all know he done (supposedly) gave up the cigarettes... He's probably jonesing for the good stuff like a mug. You know he wanted more on his hamburger than some damn mustard, lettuce, and tomato with a glasses of water! Eat healthy? He's the leader of the Free World! Can't the man throw down every once and a while?!?! Course, you know there's probably been some ordering our from Ben's Chili Bowl since the Obamas took residence at 1600, and I doubt it's the Secret Service neither. Ha!

Yeah, I know. President Obama's trying to eat healthy, we all know 44 could gain a pound or two, and then lose that, plus ten more the next time he plays hoops. So Mr Prez...we need some mayo, ketchup, horseradish, and a maybe even a couple strips o' bacon on that sammich! LOL.

Is there any wonder why I'm a big boy? LOL.

One Hundred

Today, we cheerfully, can celebrate this!

but for those of you who still think "44" was a mistake, remember this:

Yeah, George. Barrack's got your back. But not in the way you thought....

Ro, Ro, Ro 360

Last night I didn't watch much television. Just a little bit of Jeopardy, then I went to finish reading "Basketball Jones" (E! I'm not feeling this book this go 'round. Maybe cause I'm in a funk.)

N-t-way, I just finished reading Rod's post on Roland Martin's appearance last night on Anderson Cooper 360, and his defending that silly woman (Miss California) for expressing her opinion that marriage is between a man and a woman. Don't feel like rehashing it, read it here if you haven't already heard.

Roland, Roland, Roland...Brother. Is it true that you now on "their" side creating a divide in the us against them mentality? Another black man who doesn't the gay rights issue as being a civil rights issue? How dare gays compare the struggle to the Civil Rights Movement! Oh my, makes me so tired. Like so many, I've come to the table after gaining a one up from second class social status, only to be told once more to go eat in the kitchen, outta sight. When will we equal rights? Or because its not a violation in color, it doesn't matter? What about men and women of color who happen to be gay? What about then?

I've much respect for Roland, believe he's an intelligent brother, but I wish he'd extend the same courtesy to his gay brethren and sisters as well. Pity I'm reading about this now. My started on the good foot when I heard Roland give a stirring and convincing commentary on the Tom Joyner Morning Show today on why Jesse Jackson Sr. should be allowed to go to Iran and attempt to negotiate the release of Roxana Saberi.

I'm usually impressed by his sagely words and wisdom, but in this instance, I'm severely disappointed in Roland. Rod said it far more eloquently, so I don't wanna parrot him. I only know this instance further broadens the hole I've been feeling in my heart regarding recent negative situations with gays in the US. While this makes me angry, a great part of me feels sad, defeated. Nevertheless, we can't give up on the good fight. Our foreparents didn't and neither should we. I need to remind myself of this more often...

Let's Get Lifted!

I forget how old my granddaddy, my father's father's father, was when he came to the United States, but I certainly wish the Old Man had lived to see the day relations between his Homeland and The US started to ease.

Making good on his campaign promise, "Forty-Four" has begun the process to lift travel restrictions for Cuban Americans to return to see relatives back in Cuba. Thank you President Obama.

Unfortunately, I'm not Cuban-American enough to qualify to travel to Cuba...too much other ethnicity swimming in my gene pool. Plus, I wouldn't know if any of my granddaddy's people are still alive in Cuba or not, but I live in hopes some day I might be able to visit Granddad's home country of Cuba...see the street where he played, where his parents worked, glance upon "the land of beauty" as he always told me it was.

Someday. The current measure is a foot in the door for the eventuality all Americans might have better relations with our Spanish speaking-neighbors to the South. I, for one, will smile a smile for Issy Sr, my granddaddy...

ASU Snubs The President

How in the hell do you not confer an honorary degree to the President of the United States? Please, someone tell me. I'm in disbelief Arizona State University will not confer an honorary degree to this year's commencement speaker, President Obama, because he supposedly "has not yet reached the pinnacle of his experience." Um, excuse me. Hello? First Black President? US Senator? Illinois State Senator? Author? Lawyer? Community Organizer? Aren't these enough?

Why don't they just say what they really mean? "We don't wanna give that nigger a degree because he beat John McCain." I find it much better dealing with people when they're honest about their racism. Don't dance around it, be up front with it. Take off your robes and show your crooked ass smile! Wasn't Arizona the last state to formally accept Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as a national holiday?!?! How blatantly transparent and racist can Arizona State University be?

I wounder what the President himself feels about the issue? Probably is a good thing I'm not president, cause I'd back out of commencement proceedings. I'm sure Big Brother Barack won't, but I would. It's not the students' fault. It's all administrative politics. I'm Sure. And, as I pointed out, I'm positive some Arizonans are still smarting John McCain's loss for the Presidency. If the situation had been different though, you know damn Skippy ASU would offering all kinds of accolades and what not to the "distinguished gentleman from Arizona"...his his curmudgeonly self. No doubt McCain would get a degree.

We'll hear more about this gaffe in the coming days. Read the original Huffington Post article here.

Ian's Point: I'm just righteously indignant this morning. Perhaps I have no point other than I'm embarrassed for the 2009 Arizona State University Graduating Class!

Our Michelle, Our American Queen

Now, you know, I'm trippin today, right? I waited so long to see The Obamas meet up with the Old Guard o'er there in Britannia for the G-20 Summit.

Months waiting for the event, not disappointed, our good brother, President 44 and his wife, have officially met the Queen of England. I'm so satisfied cause Prez passed another test. Impressive. But lawdhavmercy! You know somebody had to steal his thunder from the occasion.

With all due respect, some white people across The Pond oughta quit. Saw all over the news this morning how some folk are up in arms because Mrs. O put her arm on the Queen's back. Oh Jeezus. WTF! Wasn't it the Queen who reached out put her £800 Gazillion British Pound sleeve on Michelle's back first? Besides, HRH actually looked happy to meet the Obamas. (Lord knows I was worried about our boy too. I love Barack and all, but even I doubted the "O" on his chest with falling in line with Royal Protocol. Especially after the Nancy Reagan faux Pas when he was President-Elect.)

Chile, now I am nothin' but impressed wit' Mr. and Mrs. Barack H. Obama. Just watching the news reports on CNN sends a chill down my spine. Watching our brother descend the steps of Air Force One or Marine One... President is definitely large and in charge! Head Negro In Charge. Three and a half months later, I'm still grasping we have a Black President.

And Miss Michelle? She's has officially become my heroine of the decade. She's just so real, so down to earth, yet conveying the "sistah is not to be trifled with" attitude. I love it. I mean, Sistah Michelle...the First Lady, is going sleeveless in many of her get-ups. And folks are just frownin' about it. Well, the Old Guard are. The common folk, peeps like you and me, are finally glad we have someone Regal enough to pull up J. Crew and make it look like a $1,000,000 bucks! I nominate her for Queen of the United States. Then again, RuPaul might be awfully pissed at me...

Synopsis In A Diff'rent Light

Ooh, but wasn't today a day for PRIDE, people?!?! Oh yeah. And it was all good. My, my, my, my, MY! It's damn sure official now, Barack Obama is the President of These United States o' America! Now, I had this finga snappin' witty ass post in mind, but as I sit in front of the keyboard, every word has flown outta my head. Lemme try to summarize.

First of all, di'n't my President and his wife look damn sexy as hell on that podium? I mean, Michelle was rockin' in that dress. Oh so tasteful. And not to be outdone, Prez B was lookin all the more dapper with his usual confidant and suave se'f! Chile! And shout out to Second Lady, Dr. Jill Biden. That calf boots and her little mini ensemble was right on time! Shout out to the First and Second Couple, although Vice President Biden needs a haircut. Sheryl Underwood was dead on when she said Joe Biden resembles the eagle character from The Muppets.

And what exactly was the fuss over Pastor Rick Warren? Seriously? His prayer was so lackluster, I kept thinking my Pastor could deliver a damn better speech than Warren's pedestrian crap. What was the hubbub was all about? Cause dude's anti-homosexual. OK, If he wants to hate on gays, let 'im. But MY JESUS loves me AND you! Dunno what god Warren worships, but God loves all His Chil'ren. Don't mean He likes er'rything we do, but He loves us just the same, no matter what that fool Warren thinks.

Obama's speech? A bit sobering, but analysists forewarned we wouldn't have another address like his acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention, so I was prepared for what he had to offer. But my favorite part of all the festivities today? After the Inaugural Luncheon when President Obama and company went to review the troops before heading up Pennsylvania Avenue for the Parade. Did you see it? I was hollerin' fo' sho! This is what ran through my mind. Now for those of you familiar good old spirit raising preaching on Sundays, read the next bit with that in mind. It's meant to be humorous. Don't take umbrage.

"Whaaa...Prez was standin' at the top of those Capitol steps. And then looked he down. I said he looked down. Yes, he looked down. Next Brother Barack stuck out his arm, all dignify and Presidential, for his wife ta take hol'. Sistah-girl Michelle, she done looked her man. She reached on ova, and took his arm. And den they smiled.

Said Barack Obama! Yes, Barack Obama. President! He and his wife, that's right she da Fuuurst Lady....wawl, lemme tell ya! They strolled on down 'em steps! And my, my, my! MY MAN, President Barack Hussein Obama, said they stepped on tha' the landing a'fore the troops. Then what did he do? Well lemme tell you! That brutha stood up, stood straight up. Barack took on that stance. Yeah you know what I'm talkin' 'bout. Stood that stance when a 'maine' feel like a 'maine'. Stood taller and prouder than any brutha I evah saw.

See hurr, he got that look 'on his face. Solid and con'fident, firm and true! Large and in charge! With that stance, he review-oo-oo-oo-wee--oooh-d them troops! Then he turnt to his wife. Yes see here, 'Chelle is the First Lady. Uh-huh! Then he smiled. Yes suh, he show'd her those pearly whites. Then he turnt back to them troops. Yeeeeeees, he did. Oh yes he did! Myyyyy Black President!

Barack Obama. Oh they call him Mister President. Yes, he stood taller 'an I ever seen. Said he looked at his wife. And smiled. And you know what that smile said? Oh do you know what that smile said? Do you know? OH, Do you know? Do you know? Well, Iiiiiiiiiii-eeee-iiiiiiii do! Lemme tell you! It saaaid.... " It's a bran' new day. I'm President now! That's right, Commander-In-Chief! Head Negro In Charge! And these here are MY TROOPS to command!"

A'ight now! Let the church say AMEN! Mmm hmm. For real, for real. Sike. Lemme stop playin! Forgive me for being stupid (stooooopid) but I've been on a trip ever since I got up this morning.

Happy Obama Day! -Ian

Question Asked, Answers To Come

A plagiarised post of sorts, but not really. I caught this over on the Huffington Post blog a few days ago, but I like the video so I decided to highlight it here. Now y'all remember those Budweiser "Wassup" commercials, right? What was at first humorous, became overkill and obnoxious. The original spawned a million and one clone commercials. Some were cute, others downright stupid.

Here the original brothers are back, giving us an update on their lives in the last eight years under a George W. Bush Presidency. Makes a powerful statement on where we're struggling through. The fellas, while giving a jocular spin on life in the 00's, look a little less vital, a little less hopeful. But the end of the commercial says it best!

Tomorrow, hope begins anew. Certainly not the end, but definitely a new beginning. At twelve noon tomorrow afternoon the whole world ain't magically gonna transform cause we got Big Brother B in Office. Nope. And we know this. But still, ain't it an awesome journey we're about to embark upon?

More later.
-Ian

Transitions

Caught Bush's Farewell Address to the Nation tonight. I dunno, but perhaps it was one of Georgie's better speeches. Didn't Bush look like he aged? I mean his face seemed so haggard. My hope is Mr. Obama (notice I stopped calling him by the familiar) doesn't look like that at the end of his Presidency.

I was never a George W. Bush fan, but I don't surmise he was/is a bad man. Misguided, yes. Evil tyrant, no! W. made ineffective choices, had suspect judgment, recreated the English language, and took the US to new lows, but he did give Colin Powell and "Kindasleezy"....er, I mean...Condoleeza Rice, the opportunities to be Secretary of State. Two black folks? Back to back?

OK George, maybe you had your good moment or two, here and there. And Dr. Rice made a good Secretary of State. Believe me, I wouldn't raise up Condi's ire; would you? Un-uh. Sistah might lose some of that "doctorate" composure, open a can of "whup-ass" and break a shoe off in somebody! Borrowing the best quote of all times, "Don't FUCK with me fellas!"

But as transitions go, I'mfinished with George tonight. Done with saying President Bush. I've stopped saying President-Elect Obama days ago. Yeah, we still have the tiniest of days left till Inauguration, but all I can see right now is Obama, Obama, Obama. George has written his chapter in history. His time has been marked. Now? It's time for the good brother from Hawaii to step on' in, do his thang, and though the road is gonna be rocky, I have all the confidence in the world in Big Brother B. YES HE CAN!

Tuesday, when George and Laura step on Air Force One for the final time as President and First Lady, I'll be waiting for the Obama firsts...President Obama exiting Air Force One for the first time as Commander-In-Chief, President Obama giving his first address to the nation, President Obama's first address to the Congress, and yes, even President Obama's first controversy... all those events. What a sight it'll be to behold.

And you know what else might be a first? Not that I'm a fortune teller or anything, but the plausibility exists the Obamas may be the first First Couple in a loooong time to have a pregnancy while in the White House. Keep in mind Mrs. Obama is a young and vibrant woman; still in childbearing years. OH YES THEY COULD!

Wouldn't that be somethin? Not that I know them like that, but I'm just sayin'...it's POSSIBLE. And you thought the hoopla on November 4th was phenomenal?!?! Let there be an announcement Mrs. O is expecting child during Prez's term. Mmm Hmm. Tongues will be wagglin, folks will be givin each other the wink, the nod, that smile.... that "yeah you know it's rollin' like that!" attitude! I'm sure...ahem...they keep it real! Again, I'm jus' sayin. Don't tell me you ain't thought it. Tom Joyner and J. Anthony Brown clown on it from time to time on the TJMS. So, I know it's crossed someone's mind before.

Let me digress for a moment though. IF a First child occurs, you know that'll be AMERICA's child! Every community that supported Obama will be beaming with pride, like B and Michelle was one of the family. Folks will be exuberant for them. If there's one thing that unites and brings folks together, it's babies!

My baby speculation is not meant to be disrespectful to the First Family. You know I've nothing but admiration and respect for Mr & Mrs. O. A family with these titles? Parent, devoted husband/wife, lawyer, professor, State senator, US senator, and now, President? Uh-huh, nothing but R-E-S-P-E-C-T. You know their love is endearing. More than any other public couple, Barack and Michelle Obama love is the genuine article. Watching the 60 Minutes interview, or for that matter, any interview they've done together, just reinforces it. Their love is timeless....

From Here

OK, folks. We had our day to celebrate. Did a flimsy post to comemorate the milestone because I was tired from staying up until 3 AM Tuesday Night. I'm still tired, but it time to resume our regular programming. Party's on hold until MLK Weekend '09. Then we can celebrate all over again. For now, life ain't gonna stop just cause history was made. There's still bills to get paid, appointments to keep, debts to be paid, commitments to hold.

But boo-yeah, baby! We got our first Black President, America!

So where do we go from here? Not Barack, but us, the addicted News Media junkies?!?! I mean, I tried watching MSNBC and CNN yesterday. Just didn't have the same feel. Nope. Not at all. Seeking a consolation prize, I even tuned into The View, hoping Elizabeth be smarting her ass off, instead all I got was a Sherry Shepard break down. Damn! Sherry didn't you get the November 5th etiquette memo??? You not supposed to breakdown in public. Only in private. Yeah, I know you was overcome, but like Whoopi tried to tell you "Don't go, don't go!"

So how many times did you cry? I'll admit it, had my moment several times. Tom Joyner did a montage on Tuesday morning starting with MLK and ending with Barack's DNC Convention speech. Tuesday night, lost it when I talked to my family, then again driving home from an Election Watch party. Whew! Too much of that, LOL.

Time to put away the handkerchiefs now. (Do people even use those anymore?) Suck it up soldier. Life keeps on going. But please, please, somebody tell me what am I gonna do now that I can't get up in wee hours to watch the campaign speeches? The asinine Fox Noise folks claiming their McCain victory? Where is my meaning to the Rachel Maddow Show, now? Do I continue to tune in for Keith Olbermann's "Worse Person Of The World?"

Oh, Anderson Cooper! Am I really gonna tune into AC 360? Larry King Live? Do I watch CNN & MSNBC at all now? Sure there's uber-sexy-as-silk CNN reporters TJ Holmes & Don Lemmon, and the pontificating Harold Ford Jr on MSNBC, but one can only stare at these brothers for so long dammit without getting that vapid feeling! Is the News still newsworthy? Tell me!

So where do I go from here? Do I migrate over to E!? HGTV? ESPN? Spike? Univision? Cartoon Network? God forbid, CMT???? Nope. The best thing from here is click the remote off, pick up a book, and immerse myself in the world of my own mind.

But the political commentary wiithdraaaaaaaawl! He'p me Lawd!

Choice Made And Announced

I'd just gotten off to sleep this morning when the Text Message finally came through. It was no surprise because T and I stayed up late watching CNN most of the evening. After awhile, a two year old coulda guessed Barack had chosen Joe Biden. Was it really worth all he hype? I'm not sure.

Political pundits are either applauding Senator Obama's choice or reinforcing the notion bruh is not ready for the Oval Office. This subject is rather trite. Was "W" any more prepared? I mean, George Bush, Jr failed at mostly every venture he entered into and he achieved the Presidency. John McCain is out of touch with reality, but all those folks think he'll do such a wonderful job. Why not give a new kid on the block, like Barack Obama, a chance to prove himself?

As the months draw closer to the November election, my optimism is waning Obama will win. As out of touch as McCain may be, the 2004 election proves people will often chose incompetence over real promise for change. While I don't think John Kerry was the best choice for president, damn, he woulda been better than another four year Bush term.

Critics are out to get Obama by any means necessary. Fuddrucker folks, fuddrucker. Let the new blood make an effort. He can't do any worse than 8 years of the Bush Administration. Sure Obama may not be adept on foreign policies, but isn't that why he chose a running mate like Biden? Someone who knows his stuff; a running mate who brings to the table not only experience, but knowledge. Listening to how Biden has not missed a day of teaching ever, takes the Amtrak to work every day, owns one home, he seems more in touch with the common man than other political offerings. Perhaps this was the best solution. Now my only hope is Barack might coax Condi over from the Dark Side of the Force. There's still hope.

"Good, in her, I sense. Still time, there is for her." Condoleeza Rice obviously is hyped about Barack being the first real potential African American Presidential hopeful. Her interviews have shown her pride. IF Colin Powell can bail on the Bushes, if Joe Lieberman can go turncoat on the Democratic Party, why not "Kinda-sleazy?" While she has much ground to make up for kowtowing to the Bush Administration, her service to an Obama Administration would be further respected and admirable.

So how about it Dr. Rice???

"One World, One Dream"

Say what you will about the controversy over this year's Olympic Games, but the Chinese pulled off the Opening Ceremonies to the XXIX Olympiad with panache, zest, style, and grace. All I can say is "Wow!"

It was a sheer spectacular display full of pageantry. So far, this has to be the best Opening Ceremonies in my memory. Dramatic elegance, well choreographed, and creatively touching on themes central to the culture and history of China, it did the job! There was symbolism everywhere! With the exception to the goosestepping soldiers, one could almost forget China is Communist. Almost.

Most touching was when the Chinese Athletes strolled into the arena with Yao Ming at the helm. Alongside Yao and company was a survivor from the devastating Earthquake which rocked China back in May, killing over 70,000. Bob Costas and Matt Lauer described the boy's bravery and courage. Well done!

Thankfully, one concern of mine didn't pan out.

I was convinced all evening the United States athletes were gonna get a poor reception entering the stadium (remarkably called the "Bird's Nest" cuz that's sure what it looks like), but I was pleasantly wrong.

US athletes received rousing cheers and applause! Despite people's viewpoints with American involvement in world events, We were accepted as a part of the World family with open arms. I, too, was impressed when the Iraqi delegation received a positive reception. Contrary to the boos and jeering Iran got afterwards, the Iraqi athletes were showered with warmth.

Bush looked bored out of his gourd all evening. With exception to the USA athletes entrance, he sat looking miserable and uncomfortable, occasionally leaning over to whisper something to First Lady Laura. And someone please teach Dubya how to sit more Presidential. Hester pointed out early in the evening Georgie-boy sits with a "wide-eagle" posture, showing everyone his "package." Ick! How undignified! How trite for the Leader of the Free World not to suck it up one night and show a little enthusiasm. Jeez!

My most captivating event of the evening was the lighting of the Olympic cauldron, which my poor words cannot give adequate description. If you missed it, definitely catch it on YouTube. I was blown away. And the fireworks!!!! Again...."WOW!"

No matter your position on the Chinese, their politics, or the Olympic Games, one must admit this was one of their finer moments. A proud achievement for them and the world! Kudos!

2,156

Glued to my television last night, text messaging as many friends as I could, I watched Obama achieve his goal of being the presumptive 2008 Democratic Presidential Nominee.

I'm grateful the Democratic Primary Season is, at long last, over. Depending who you ask, this political contest has either inspired more young people to get involved in politics or caused division within the Democratic party. As I said, I'm glad it's over. Or is it?

Watching Clinton's speech, she was defiant, as every political analyst from CNN to MSNBC pointed out, yet, I expected no less of Senator Clinton.

As this campaign proved to me, true to what's been said before, the Clintons will do anything, say anything, to accomplish their goals. (I won't touch Bill's potential damage to the Democratic Party's cause with his remarks against the Vanity Fair columnist, only state I feel President Clinton was well within his right to speak his frustration). Her refusal to give Obama credit where due was annoying. I mean, come on, he's the first African American Nominated Presidential Candidate in history. Instead, she made the speech all about her.

What's Clinton's motive? According to analysts, since she lost the Presidential nod, Hillary wants to be Barack's Vice President. Well, duh! I saw that months ago. She's not going to let go of this easily. Still, she should have spoken about Obama with kind words, praise, and congratulatory grace, even if she refused to concede.

Instead, she was just a typical Clinton politician. I suspect Hillary maybe up to something. I'm surprised no one has suggested she may run on an Independent campaign. Turncoat Joe Liebermann did and won his seat on Capitol Hill. So, anything is possible at this point. Remember a person backed into a corner is often at their best.

Not sure if it was Andy Cooper or Keith Olbermann who questioned why Barack didn't highlight his historical feat. Seems rather obvious to me, no? With all the talk that Obama can't connect with white working middle class and women, any recognition as the first African American chosen Presidential nominee, of either party, might have given people more reason not to like the Senator.

One of my own friends included in this demographic, a strong Clinton supporter, feels Obama is arrogant and vows to vote for McCain come November. My brother-in-law, who is Puerto Rican, has also said as much. Barack will have his work bringing women and the Hispanic community over, like Clarissa and Emilio, but it can be done.

Does Barack need Hillary as his running mate to bring people around? I'm not sure. I agree with CNN analyst and Super Delegate Donna Brazile (please declare your allegiance) Senator Obama shouldn't be pressured into choosing her.

Oh. One more thing. Did anyone notice how John McCain eerily resembled the creepy preacher from the Poltergeist movies, who ironically, was named Cain? When he smiled during his speech, I kept thinking of the character yelling at Craig T. Nelson "You're gonna die in there!"

Too spooky. No disrespect intended to Senator McCain. I half toyed with the notion of voting for him had Obama lost to Clinton. So don't take umbrage at my comment.

The Politics Test

You are a Social Liberal (71% permissive) and an... Economic Liberal (21% permissive) You are best described as a: Strong Democrat Link: The Politics Test on Ok Cupid Also : The OkCupid Dating Persona Test

Closer Yet To The Finish Line

As analysts predicted, both Obama and Clinton won their respective states last night. I watched Obama's speech and thought he did an commendable job addressing not only Iowa, but the country as well, extending a hand out to Democrats and Republicans alike.

These next few weeks, and perhaps months, are going to be tedious. Watching CNN and MSNBC, everyone agrees Obama will have his work cut out for him if named the Democratic Nominee. He has to reach out and connect with the white voters who aren't familiar to him. Not an easy task, indeed. People who have their minds set, won't go over easily, if at all.

Now I hate suggesting this, however it may be a matter of necessity, Obama may need to dip deep into his racial heritage, to bring white voters on his side. His mother and grandparents are all white. It's unfortunate to say, but there are those who would vote for Bush again than to have an educated Black man in Office. Perhaps, if rural whites, some who probably never met a Black person, can see something in them in Barack, it could compel them to listen to what he has to say drawing some kind of connection.

How sad America is still like this! Politics is nothing but a chess match, move counter-move. Barack's greatest asset could be his grandfather, who fought in WWII. People from the "Greatest Generation" tend to identify strongly with each other. Most analysts indicated this fact last night and how it might be a commonplace issue with those voters to support Obama.

Then again, this all may be premature.

Let's not forget about Senator Clinton. Everyone thinks she down and out, but if anything, the Clintons are always at their best when you think they're finished off. Look how "Billy-Boy" (who I respect immensely ) bounced back from all his peccadilloes and scandals. The Clinton camp will fight to get the Michigan and Florida votes counted.

My opinion is if The Democratic National Committee decides to include those states, which they should for "Due Process," there needs to be a re-vote. Obama did not campaign in either state, nor was his name on the ballot in Michigan. It wouldn't be fair if they turn all the delegates to Clinton without Senator Obama having a chance to reach out to Michigan and Florida voters. How can you vote for a candidate when their name is not offered on the ballot? Unfair! Why give Clinton the advantage, eh?

In the end, and I was against this for the longest time, the best solution probably needs to be some type of Obama/Clinton ticket.