Letter: GOP using scare tactics in election

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Sunday, November 2. 2008

Comments (80)

Editor:

You may or may not remember me now. I graduated from CHS last year and I am currently a freshman at the University of Georgia. I am in Athens three days a week, but return frequently. When I returned and read the article about the McCain-Palin rally last week, I felt compelled to write. The hatred and downright disrespect demonstrated in the excerpts are magnificent illustrations of the overall tone and tenor of the McCain campaign and its supporters.

Talk about lacking substance; I had frequently wondered just exactly what it was that you threw at someone after you had already thrown "the kitchen sink." Apparently the answer is terror-laced, underhanded, McCarthy-Red Scare words like "socialist" and "communist." The "most liberal senator" in the U.S. Senate saw that the War in Iraq was wrong from the beginning. He supported the health care bill for poor children, supported raising the minimum wage, championed the nuclear proliferation fight, and the fight for ethics reform.

Senator Obama also gives hope to millions of people otherwise conveniently overlooked by your experienced candidate in his economic and tax plans; people like myself who could trade community service for tuition credit; people like the elderly, who do not want to see their Social Security dry up; people like the women who think it's only fair to make insurance companies cover contraception; people like the uninsured, who should not have to be rich to be healthy. No, John McCain, health care is not a "responsibility," it is a right! Good luck with Senator McCain's plan for the uninsured: a $5,000 coupon for a health care plan that can cost two, three, or four times that much. Surely you supporters addressed this at your "rally"? Then again, probably not.

The dismissive tone exemplified in the "Obama could not pass the background check required to be a Commerce police officer" excerpt is precisely one of the reasons young people such as myself gravitate towards Senator Obama. How contemptuous for you to dismiss a man born in Hawaii, raised by a single mother, who put himself through an Ivy League school on hard work and intellect. How dare you call into question the 'background" of a proud American who has proven he has both the judgment and especially the temperament to make the "tough decisions" that will be required of the next president? Do you know who our most "experienced" president was? James Buchanan. I would've liked for your rally to have held a question and answer session on his accomplishments.

It is especially nice to see that while people are losing their jobs, pensions and homes, the GOP supporters realize the seriousness of the times enough to parade a fake volunteer Sarah Palin (who probably knows as much about being Vice President as the actual Sarah Palin) around as if NBC were taping Saturday Night Live in Spencer Park. Oh, and by the way, further scrutiny revealed that "Joe the Plumber" wouldn't be adversely affected by Senator Obama's tax plan. Let's see, called him a terrorist, un-American, socialist, communist, high-taxing liberal and tried to connect him to a domestic terrorist act when Senator Obama was seven; none of those dogs hunted did they? What will you have next? How about a plan? How about a little hope? How about a little less fear? How about less smiling with miserably failed joke attempts "my friends" and more substance, so that the people who John McCain and his supporter aren't addressing can begin to smile again? Or would those be too revolutionary of ideas for a Republican campaign?

By the way, the answer is no. No, the American people don't seem to be as excited about Sarah Palin as "y'all' are. Her negative perception is higher than her positive perception; 55 percent don't see her as qualified to be president and she was the most frequently cited reason by those polled when asked what the biggest problem with the McCain campaign was. Look like y'all missed the memo on that one. She actually seems to be the reason you aren't doing better. Sounds to me like the rally had quite a few speakers spouting trash about why not to vote for Senator Obama, but very few offering substantive reasons to vote for John McCain. I don't blame you; that's all your campaign has been feeding you: negativity with no plans for the future. I want what is going to be best for the future. People my age are the future. We do care. I want what is best for America. So Republicans, don't try to monopolize the market on putting your "Country First." I'm putting my country first and yes, damn it, I'm voting for Barack Obama.

Wesley D. Lewis

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#1 John Warren on 11/02/08 at 12:15 PM [Reply]

Our beautiful soon to be Vice President Sarah Palin is the best future leader for this nation, not Senator Barak Obama. Our beautiful soon to be Vice President Sarah Palin is also would be better at leading our nation in the future after a McCain Presidency than Senator Barak Obama would be in leading our nation in the future starting in January 2009. There are great reasons our soon to be Vice President Sarah Palin would be a better future leader than Senator Barak Obama. The greatest reason for our soon to be Vice President Sarah Palin's is ideology. Our soon to be Vice President Sarah Palin is conservative in that she is pro life, marriage, guns, low taxes, low government spending, small government, unintrosive government, traditional and judeo Christian values, Bible reading and prayer in our public schools, and military spending.She is also pro free and private enterprize. Senator Barak Obama is a liberal who is anti every thing that I have described that our soon to be Vice President Sarah Palin is pro about or for. A second reason that our soon to be Vice President Sarah Palin is superior is because of experience. As a governor she has two years of executive administrative governing experience that Senator Barak Obama does not have. A final reason that our soon to be Vice President Sarah Palin is superior is because of political accomplishments. When our soon to be Vice President Sarah Palin came to office she accomplished 3 major things which are as follows: she showed great leadership in the 3 following areas: government reform, the state budget and the economy, and wise use of natural resources. She reformed government by standing up to the big oil companies by breaking up the monopoly on power and resources. She insisted on competition and basic fairness which ended the control that the oil companies had on the state, and thereby returning control of the state back to the people. She also stood up to the special interest and lobbyist, and produced major ethics reform. She lead well in the state budget by generating a surplus which came about by vetoing a half billion dollars of wasteful spending, ending the abuses of earmark spending by congress, and by getting rid of the private jet, the chef, and the chuffer. Economically under her leadership she brought about the largest private-sector infrastructure project in North American history. She also suspended the state fuel tax, and when oil and gas prices went up dramatically, and filled up the state treasury, she sent a large share of that revenue back where it belonged - directly to the people of Alaska . On natural resources she has shown great leadership by beginning a nearly forty billion dollar natural gas pipeline to help lead America to energy independence. When the last section of the pipeline is laid and its valves are opened, will lead America one step farther away from dependence on dangerous foreign powers that do not have our interests at heart. Senator Barak Obama has done nothing, so please vote John McCain for President and give to our beautiful soon to be Vice President Sarah Palin the opportunity that she deserves leading the nation into the future after a John McCain presidency. When our soon to be Vice President does lead the nation as President after a John McCain presidency,she will be the greatest President that we have ever had. Finally she is smarter than Senator Barak Obama

Thank You

John Warren

#1.1 Anonymous on 11/03/08 at 07:31 AM [Reply]

He must just be thinking about Tina Fey!

#1.2 Anonymous on 11/05/08 at 11:28 AM [Reply]

Soon to be Vice President? Check the news.

#2 Anonymous on 11/02/08 at 06:24 PM [Reply]

Health care is a right? Seems I overlooked that part of the US Constitution.

#2.1 Anonymous on 11/05/08 at 06:16 PM [Reply]

Wes Lewis,

I am not here 2 judge or offened anyone. When the election first started i wasn't for anyone but when i found out all the stuff about what our current "President" is doing or had it made me sick. I know that this country is the melting pott but its hard for everyone to cope with the fact that our president is a muslim. He said that our NATIONAL ANTHEM was WAR LIKE and its wrong. HE said exactly this "There are alot of people in the world 2 whom the American flag is a symbol of oppression. And the anthem itself conveys a war like message. You know,"The bombs bursting in air" and all. It should be swoped for something less parochial and less beellicose....I like the song "I like to teach the world to sing." If that were our anthe, then i might solute it...We should consider to re envent our national anthem as well as to redisign our flag to better offer our enemys hpe and love." That is discrasful. The National Anthem is to show pride in America and to show that we werent given our freedom we fought for it and we still do. It shows how the people in America have died for our freedom and how they are still doing it! And the changing of the flag is dissrespectfu. It represents the blood the lives the tears that have been shed for America and freedon. When Obama said that i cant even explain how i felt. And also hiwm saying that him and also his wife had been in ceremonys of burning the flag! That is just the disrespectful thing that any1 could ever do! We shouldn't have a president who burns our NATIONAL FLAG!!!!!!! Come on people it America and he is burning the flags!!! I despise the fact that people voted for obama just because he is black. That is not a good reason to vote for some1. And i am not going to say that ur generation is going to destroy America cause i am in ur generation and i do go 2 chs. That is ur opinion and this is mine. There is going to be change in America. Is it going 2 be good idk. Time will tell. And all we can do is pray.!

#2.1.1 anon on 11/06/08 at 10:28 AM [Reply]

Obama is not a muslim. Every "fact" you listed is false. Do a little research before you start spouting off lies.
Even if he was a muslim, who are you to judge? Where did you get the authority to condem anyone who practices a different faith?

#3 r. u. serious on 11/02/08 at 07:16 PM [Reply]

how dare i call into question the 'background" of a proud american who has proven he has both the judgment and especially the temperament to make the "tough decisions" that will be required of the next president? how exactly has he “proven” judgment and temperament required of the next president? he hasn’t done it in the senate by voting with his party on virtually every vote. the campaign trail doesn’t really prove anything, except how well you can BS potential voters. and what about his background. when he refuses to produce his original birth certificate, you’ve got to wonder what he’s hiding. maybe the fact he may not even be eligible to become president? this is a very legitimate question, not a “smear” or “scare tactic”. you are also dead wrong about the domestic terrorist act. the link was to the terrorist, not the act. bill ayers said he didn’t do enough in bombing all of those places. he said this at a time when he was contributing to obama’s campaign in illinois. obama was not seven years old in 2001. questioning obama’s background is just as fair as questioning mccain’s and palin’s, which you seem be doing more of than “offering substantive reasons” to vote for obama. your approach is no better than the GOP’s. you are just for the other side. look at the facts. obama’s promise is empty, and i am disappointed to see a commerce graduate fall for it.

#4 The Libertarian on 11/03/08 at 06:49 AM [Reply]

How cute! When you actually start paying taxes and grow up come back and tell us how great your socialist candidate is.

kthnx!

#4.1 anon on 11/04/08 at 10:58 AM [Reply]

"kthnx!"

Way to be a grown up...

#4.2 Jean on 11/07/08 at 05:35 PM [Reply]

You are a genius(referring to this comment)! Oh, and I got what you were doing with the 'kthnx!' comment, unlike some of the others. You made my night.

#5 Anonymous on 11/03/08 at 07:03 AM [Reply]

You seem to be a very angry young man. I suspect that you identify with Mister Obama much more due to your background than his "position" on things. If you could lose that aggressive anger, I wonder if your views would be the same.

In a few years, with more life experience, (and after having lived under "President Obama", should he win) you might come to realize that regardless of which party wins, the outcome is pretty much the same.

That's not to say that some things are not different, but overall you will see that the status que remains the same.

Political promises are exactly that. Promises. Most of which will be broken before the elected official takes office. At every level from the president down to the dog-catcher, the one thing you can usually count on is a politian will break most of his/her campaign promises.

I hope that you aren't too disappointed, down the road, when this becomes apparent to you.

Change? The only change is from red to blue to red to blue over and over.

Taxes keep increasing, government gets bigger and bigger, but less and less able to do its primary jobs.

And life goes on, maybe a bit worse every year, but it goes on.

Maybe your generation will have the answers to all of the problems, but all I have seen from every generation, including yours, is a continuation of the same old things that have taken our government, hence out county, right down the road to where we are now.

Good luck to you, and your generation. You are going to need it.

But one last piece of advice. Lose the anger and throw away those old notions, look for a new way. Maybe YOU will be the ones who really CAN bring change for the better.

#6 Proud American on 11/03/08 at 07:19 AM [Reply]

Wesley, I see it didn't take long for the liberal professer at UGA to brainwash you to. Where did the the Commerce city school system go wrong? If you feel that Obama is the best man for the job why are you wasting your money to futher your education? If Obama wins he is going to spread the wealth. So why waste your time and money with school. Just sit at home with mommy and daddy and wait on your check.

#7 Wesey Lewis on 11/03/08 at 02:03 PM [Reply]

Wow...you all seem to have missed the boat on my whole complaint, while proving it as you went along, so first I must thank you. Yes, I do have some pent up anger because when left up to those older than me (those with "life experience") nothing seems to work. How exactly is it that some of you complained about how things are going now adn then subsequently complained about me not being in the real world. Maybe you should do what I did, write your ideas down, then type them...they might just follow a better logical line of argument that way. And please don't try to tell me that I was wrong about smear tactics or negative compaigning; those only came into play when Mr. McCain realized he was down in the polls. I give hime credit for talking about the issues up to the point that he realized talking about issues just wasn't working for him. He then made the switch. No more issues, just send the Vice Presidential pit bull out there to make unsubstantiated claims. And to the one of you who thought I was thinking about Tina Fey, I was. I was genuinely thinking about Tina Fey because the sad truth is that when Tina Fey makes fun of Sarah Palin on SNL (like in the Couric interview) she was simply quoting her...they didn't actually have to "write" much material for that piece. So, Sarah Palin, Tina Fey, take your pick; it doesn't matter to me. Lastly, when exactly was it that we lifted selfishness to the level of a virtue. I don't want to hear about family values or a single mention of Judeo Christian values, because I myself am a Christian who coincidentally has not fogotten the Good Samaritan story or the fact that we as Christians are supposed to be inclined to help others when we are well-off, not reisistant to it. Maybe I am a dreamer, maybe I am too optimistic, but I've lived a little and I've watched the generations before me be pessimistic and it hasn't gotten anyone anywhere. So yes, I guess it is time for "my generation" to pick up the ball and run with it. Again, thank you for your responses; they so eloquently proved my point.

#7.1 Anonymous on 11/03/08 at 02:44 PM [Reply]

Don't be too quick to declare your own success. I think these responses just prove how flawed of an argument you make, not to mention how much you still have to learn. You can't even get your facts straight. I appreciate you taking initiative in getting involved in the political process, but make sure your facts and logic can stand up to scrutiny. You are throwing yourself to the wolves and don't even realize it.

#7.2 Anonymous on 11/04/08 at 06:13 AM [Reply]

Wow! I'm assuming that "Wesey Lewis" is actually Wesley D. Lewis...if so:

At first I thought you were somewhat intelligent, but your response has proven me wrong. That you could come to a conclusion that any of the posts here "prove" any of your points merely shows that you have no concept of logical thought, and that you base all of your rantings purely on emotional, illogical, unthoughful conclusions.

If anyone had hope that YOUR generation could do better than any of the previous ones, you've just proven that you certainly won't be a part of any solution.

Its mindless rants based on biases such as yours that prove that your generation is even more hopeless than anyone might have imagined.

Good work proving what a sarcastic, arrogant, clueless bunch young people can be, and you've done so in a public forum no less!

#7.3 anon on 11/04/08 at 07:50 AM [Reply]

wow...I guess I have your generation, which is also my generation to blame if Obama becomes president and he sales this country that he is "proud" of to the rest of his muslim family. Tell me what has Obama done to show he has done anything for this country? NOTHING, he spouts a pretty speech with nothing to back it up. Personaly I want a man in office that knows what's it like to fight for this nation and someone who is willing to lay his life on the line for us. Something Obama would never and has never done.

#8 Libertarian on 11/03/08 at 03:09 PM [Reply]

Christians give their own money, they don't steal from others and then proudly exclaim that they're being "charitable" when redistributing it to others.

Perhaps you missed that in Sunday school?

#9 Amanda on 11/03/08 at 03:54 PM [Reply]

Wes please do not call yourself a Christian if your not voting in line with Christian values. Abortion and to protect marriage as ONE MAN AND ONE WOMAN. Are why Christian should vote. The economy will take care of it self. Remember God takes care of the sparrow, and I don't think many of us have missed any meals. It so simple that I think a UGA student could gasp it. And yes peolpe who are older then you do have a better understand of just about everything.

#9.1 Anonymous on 11/03/08 at 04:17 PM [Reply]

Please don't be a bigot. It's not the Christian way.

#9.2 Lauren on 11/04/08 at 11:16 AM [Reply]

It seems that the “Christian values” that you are referring to more or less focus on passing judgment on others. Not to be rude, but who are you to tell anyone how to live, much less try to tell them what they should believe? The economy is in shambles, and forgive me, but I really do not think that it is going to fix itself. I myself have never suffered due to economic hardship, but I also realize that there are other people in this world besides me. I also think that just because someone is older does not mean that they hold a more valid opinion on a subject that does someone from my generation. Old policies and stale ideas will only sink this country further into despair.

#9.2.1 Anonymous on 11/04/08 at 12:44 PM [Reply]

Surely you can't be slow enough to think that Obama is the only solution to the problem.

#10 Anonymous on 11/03/08 at 04:13 PM [Reply]

Wesley,
I completely agree with the opinions in your letter. You should have every right to be upset about what is happening to our nation and our economy. If it doesn't make you angry, then you obviously aren't paying much attention. I'm a little older than you, but I still hold resentment for the generation that voted Bush into office not once, but twice. How many times do we have to keep repeating the same mistake?

#11 MrsJuniorLibertarian on 11/03/08 at 04:13 PM [Reply]

Ole Abe Lincoln PWNS Obama.

"Property is the fruit of labor. Property is desirable. It's a positive good in the world, That some should be rich shows that others may become rich, and hence, it's just encouragement to industry and enterprise. Let not who is houseless pull down the house of another, but let him labor diligently and build one for himself, thus by example assuring that his own shall be safe from violence."

Love this and use it at every opportunity

#12 Anon for now. on 11/03/08 at 04:21 PM [Reply]

Perhaps, sir, I can craft a more eloquent rejoinder.

To begin, your vitriol does you discredit. You make a relatively strong case against certain scare tactics used by Mr. McCain’s campaign, but your own anger undermines your case. Lamenting the “hatred and disrespect” expressed at Mr. McCain’s rally while yourself employing such a scathing tone obfuscates your point at best and ironically undermines it at worst. Moreover, while you seem disturbed by the McCain campaign’s lack of substance, you provide scant policy justification for voting for Mr. Obama.
You outline your substantive support for Mr. Obama early in the letter, writing “The ‘most liberal senator’ in the U.S. Senate saw that the War in Iraq was wrong from the beginning. He supported the health care bill for poor children, supported raising the minimum wage, championed the nuclear proliferation fight, and the fight for ethics reform.” These contentions deserve brief point by point explication.
On Iraq, your analysis benefits from hindsight and willful disregard for foresight: first, regarding hindsight, it is worth remembering that many important national and foreign intelligence agencies believed Saddam Hussein threatened America when the war began, and second that Saddam Hussein brutally murdered hundreds of thousands of his own people and oppressed millions more; regarding disregard of foresight, the outcome of the Iraq war is far from certain, and history may view it differently than today’s edition of the New York Times.
Healthcare for poor children would seem to refer to SCHIP. This program does good work, and few oppose it in its present incarnation. Some Democratic Senators, including Mr. Obama, advocate dramatically expanding the income ceiling for the program—essentially making it a universal healthcare for children proposal. It is fine to debate such a program on the merits, but pretending that Obama supports healthcare for poor children, with the implication that McCain opposes this, dangerously stretches the truth.
Your final two claims about Mr. Obama fail a more basic test—they are exaggerations at best. Many influential politicians have worked on loose nukes since the fall of the Soviet Union, and this work has progressed so long and far that the Mr. Obama cannot “champion” the cause. Ethics reform is, broadly, an empty signifier; notice that at the RNC and DNC heavy hors d'oeuvres were served without silverware—easily avoiding purposefully inserted loopholes in the lauded Ethics Reform Bill.
After sorting through your missive’s angst, you seem to have two major problems with Mr. McCain’s platform: writ largely, healthcare and tax policy. And again, each deserves a look.
Your assertion that healthcare is a “right” is problematic at best. If it is a right, who is obligated to provide it? If the answer is the government, then from where does the government derive the power to enforce the so called right? The answer is certainly not the United States Constitution, which casts it rights wholly in terms of “Congress shall not’s.” Moreover, even if it is conceded that healthcare is a right, then it seems that very few, if any, human beings actually enjoy this right. The healthcare systems of Canada, Britain, Japan, and Germany all guarantee healthcare to all citizens, and each of these systems have their own well documented problems. Canadian patients, for example, have been know to wait months for MRIs and CT scans, losing precious time to treat life threatening illnesses. To the extent that Mr. Obama’s plan trends towards nationalized medicine it will likely cut down patient choice, hamstring medical innovation, and press massive new obligations on an already strapped federal budget. While Mr. McCain’s plan is certainly imperfect, treating Mr. Obama’s plan like a panacea fails as an argument.
Your tax argument seems likewise weak. In your comment, you relate the story of the Good Samaritan, presumably as evidence that wealthy people should feel no compunction about paying higher taxes. This misses a crucial distinction though—the distinction between choice and force. The Good Samaritan is good precisely because he chooses to succor those in need not because he is forced to; the parable would have little impact if an impersonal force threatened to incarcerate him, or garnish his wages, or take his home if he did not help those in need. Moreover, it is worth noting that the top 20 percent of income earners in America already pay 69.2 percent of all federal taxes. The bottom 60 percent pay a mere 13.3 percent, and the bottom 40 percent has an income tax liability of virtually zero. This system is highly progressive as it is, and Mr. Obama could easily avoid accusations of socialism by refraining from spreading the wealth around more than we already are.
I will conclude with three observations. One, Mr. McCain does not want anyone’s social security check to dry up, nor does he think only the rich should be healthy, nor does he want anyone to lose their jobs, pensions, or homes. To the extent that your letter implies this, Mr. Lewis, you are woefully mistaken. Rather Mr. McCain offers solutions that are not based on an ever expanding Federal government. Two, it is rather easy for you to dismiss all of Mr. Obama’s radical associates. Consider if Mr. McCain had a pastor who preached racial hate from his pulpit, or long-time friends who reaffirmed their support for terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 no less. Would you view such radical associations different than you do Mr. Obama’s. Third, far from running a clean campaign, Mr. Obama has spent far more than Mr. McCain on negative ads. Perhaps your complaints about campaigns lacking substance cuts both ways.

#12.1 Always anon on 11/03/08 at 04:41 PM [Reply]

Your mild-mannered, well-spoken response is far more thought provoking than the "life lessoned" college student. I commend your post and ideas and whole-heartedly agree. Thank you for articulating your argument so well; Conservative ideas would be much better recieved if we all spoke and thought out our arguments as well as you do.

#12.2 Conservative on 11/15/08 at 10:28 AM [Reply]

Well said.

thank you for having the ability to state the facts. Time will show you are correct in all areas.

#13 Wesley Lewis on 11/03/08 at 05:02 PM [Reply]

I do certainly appreciate all of the remarks, although I still believe some people miss the point and went after my own generational feeling of discomfort with politics as usual instead of what I was actually saying. I certainly would not say older people have a complete and better grasp on everything simply becasue they are older. Just because bad ideas have longevity doesn't disqualify them from being bad ideas. Everything everyone has said, for the most part, are valid policy arguments that lead to fundamental disagreements. I do take issue with only one though: the thought that Christians, if giving is their intent, should care about "choice or force." If someone tells me that all Christians must put $20 in the collection plate, yes that's force. But does it make that $20 any less charitable if I was going to give it anyway? I don't think so. If you know why you're doing it in your heart, then an outside force shouldn't matter to you. I do, however take offense, to whomever impolitely asked me not to call myself a Christian. For a Christian yourself, that seemed very judgemental of you. Do not pretend that you have a monopoly on value issues. Healthcare, the environment, etc. are traditionally liberal issues and you cannot tell me that those are not value issues. The sanctity of the lives of Americans, regardless of if they can pay, or the condition of the Earth that we're only on for an unknown number of years. Do not pretend that you are voting how Jesus would vote simply because you are a Republican. There are decent Republicans who know that not everyone believes the same way that they do and do not try to force every one of their religious values onto those who do not fall in line with them. You, whoever you are, give voice to the ultra-right wing of your party, but you give the party as a whole a bad name. I want you to remember something the next time you try to apply your "christian test" to someone: ghandi was asked about Western religion and Christianity and he said that he liked our Christ, but did not like our Christians ecause they were so unlike our Christ. Please, I intended to be a voice for the opposition, not get into a religious argument because like I said, not everyone is of a uniform religion. Again, I thank those of you who respectfully disagreed with me and presented your own case without passing judgement. That is the open dialogue I was going for.

#13.1 aNON on 11/04/08 at 11:03 AM [Reply]

Wesley,

While I do not know you personally, I feel a comraderie with all Commerce graduates.

That said, you could not be more wrong. The scary thing about an Barack Hussein Obama presidency is the potential to alter the Supreme Court. He has stated that he would appoint Judges that have a "feel for the poor". That is directly opposed to the belief that "Justice MUST be blind." How could any reasonable American possibly support that?

By changing the makeup of the Court, Hussein Obama (is this a Muslim name?) would be able to "legislate from the bench" things that could NEVER be passed by reasonable representatives.

As for the Christian part, ALL CHRISTIANS ARE OBLIGATED TO TRY AND CONVERT UNBELIEVERS! That ios the great commission! How can you rail on Christians who promote the basic tennets of the faith.

Furthemore, charity is just that,charity. By definition, it is freely given, not required. I am responsible for providing for my family, not ANYONE else, unless I choose to. No Government entity has the right to take my hard earned $ and give it to someone else. If I choose to help, I will but only after I am satisfied that my family is properly provided for.

As for the contention the Hussein Obama is not a citizen, it is a valid concern. The Governator (Arnold) can never be President, and if Obama is not a natural born citizen, he has no right to be President, period. The Constitution is VERY clear on this matter, there is no ambiguity.
Now it would be a simple matter to put to rest, but he refuses to do so. Hmmmmm.

On his policies, he is a Communist, plain and clear. Anyone who claims to "not see it" is walking around with blinders on. He will turn this country into a Third World Gutter Nation in no time and what little respect we have from foreign powers will be gone.

Also, I am certain that there will be an attack of some kind in the first 100 days of an Obama Presidency and I am equally sure that Obama will take that opportunity to unleash his Reverend Wright leanings and blame the US for the attack. He will undoubtedly give in to the terrorists and the US will cease to exist.

I am not overly excited about a McCain Presidency, but as in most elections, I am forced to choose between the lesser of 2 evils. At least McCain is a Patriot who served his country and not someone who has failed repeatedly to say the Pledge of Allegience.

I am deeply saddened by your position and I hope that you will take some time to reconsider it.

A Commerce Graduate

#13.2 Tonya on 11/05/08 at 05:10 AM [Reply]

Thanks this is the person you just voted for and put in office.

This is really bad! Please read it.

Date: Monday, October 27, 2008, 6:07 PM

Dale Lindsborg ,
Washington

Post

This needs to be sent to everyone we know, then all fall to our knees and pray that God will hear our cry before it's too late
.

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING:

The following is a narrative taken from Sunday Morning's televised 'Meet The Press' and the author is employed by none other than the Washington Post!!

From Sunday's Televised 'Meet the Press' Senator Obama was asked about his stance on the American Flag. Obama Explains National Anthem Stance Sun, 07 Sept. 2008 11:48:04 EST, General Bill Ginn' USAF (ret.) asked Obama to explain why he doesn't follow protocol when the National Anthem is played. The General also stated to the Senator that according to the United States Code,
Title 36, Chapter 10, Sec. 171... During rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform are expected to stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. At the very least, 'Stand and Face It'

Senator Obama Live on Sunday stated:

'As I've said about the flag pin, I don't want to be perceived as taking sides, Obama said. 'There are a lot of people in the world to whom the American flag is a symbol of oppression. And the anthem itself conveys a war-like message. You know, the bombs bursting in air and all. It should be swapped for something less parochial and less bellicose. I like the son g 'I'd Like To Teach the World To Sing.' If that were our anthem, then I might salute it.'We should consider to reinvent our National Anthem as well as to redesign our Flag to better offer our enemies hope and love. It's my intention, if elected, to disarm America to the level of acceptance
to our Middle East Brethren. If we as a Nation of warring people, should conduct ourselves as the nations of Islam, whereas peace prevails. Perhaps a state or period of mutual concord between our governments. When I become President, I will seek a pact or agreement to end
hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity, and a freedom from disquieting oppressive thoughts. We as a Nation have placed upon the nations of Islam an unfair injustice.
My wife disrespects the Flag for many personal reasons. Together she and I have attended several flag burning ceremonies in the past, many years ago
. She has her views and I have mine'. Of course now, I have found myself about to become the President of the
< st1:country-region>
United States
and I have put aside my hatred.
I will use my power to bring CHANGE to this Nation, and offer the people a new path of hope. My wife and I look forward to becoming our Country's First Family. Indeed, CHANGE is about to overwhelm the United States of America .'

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, you heard it right. This could possibly be our next President.

I, for one, am speechless.

Dale Lindsborg ,

Washington

Post

#13.2.1 Anon on 11/05/08 at 04:48 PM [Reply]

Wow...My first time reading about that. Kind of makes me want to cry.

#13.2.2 Chelsey on 11/05/08 at 08:15 PM [Reply]

Further proof of the attempt to smear now President-elect Obama. If you're going to post a "news story", do the easy thing; at least Google it before you put your name by it.

Bogus 'Wash Post' Reporter Featured in Obama Smear

By Greg Mitchell

Published: October 16, 2008 11:55 AM ET

NEW YORK In recent months, conservatives have been caught red-faced spreading smears about Barack Obama via emails and blogs and Web sites, their sources eventually unmasked as tainted or non-existent people. Now here's another example, but this one is a little different--the source is a Washington Post reporter named Dale Lindsborg.

Of course, there is no Dale Lindsborg at the Post (or seemingly anywhere) but when did that get in the way of a good smear?

Even a giveaway line in his alleged account where Obama endorses an old Coke commercial song as our new national anthem did not deter some from believing it and making it "viral."

For at least two weeks the "Lindsborg" account of an Obama appearance on "Meet the Press" on Sept. 7 has been rocketing around the world and back again via email and the Internet, sometimes showing up at reputable sites -- such as the Post itself -- in their Comments sections. Someone even brought it up on Wednesday in an online chat with Washington Post reporter Ann Kornblut at the paper's site. She said she knew of no Lindsborg but would check on it (hey, put Bob Woodward on the case).

The charge is the old familiar tale of Obama not believing in honoring the flag, and hating America, with the new twist that he said this on "Meet the Press" a month ago (somehow the world missed this) and that it has been confirmed by the aforementioned Dale Lindsborg.

It was debunked this week on the Snopes.com site, which traced it back to a satiric entry at an obscure site that was taken seriously and spread widely.

The giveaway should have been Obama saying he wanted to junk our "bellicose" national anthem, the "Star-Spangled Banner," and replace it with the more peaceful "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing" -- adding that if that was our anthem "then I might salute it."

He supposedly then added, "It's my intention, if elected, to disarm America to the level of acceptance to our Middle East Brethren." And: "My wife disrespects the Flag for many personal reasons. Together she and I have attended several flag burning ceremonies in the past, many years ago."

Reporter "Lindsborg" then winds up his account: "Yes, ladies and gentlemen, you heard it right. This could possibly be our next President. I, for one, am speechless."

Taylor Batten, editorial page editor at the Charlotte Observer, commented yesterday at one of his paper's blogs, "Come on, people. You're e-mailing this to all your friends, in a panic, in disbelief that this man is leading in the polls.

"Here's an idea: think for yourself! Spend, oh, 10 seconds on Google and see if there really is a"Dale Lindsborg at the Washington Post. Spend 30 seconds seeing if Obama was even ON the Sept. 7 'Meet the Press.' Are you so predisposed to one candidate or the other that you can't think critically?"

#14 Concerned Citizen on 11/03/08 at 06:26 PM [Reply]

My children currently attend Commerce city schools and I pray that they don't follow in the ignorance of Wesley. I honestly believe we don't have good options in voting this time. I voted for the best of the worst. I don't believe a word obama says and I don't particulary like McCain but I am pro-life, equal taxes, one man one woman marriages. I also like to know that my future president is not "hanging out" or has a "history" with terrorists or is married to a racist or has been in office for only 4 years and has spent much of this time campaigning for office. I also believe that if you believe in something you should stand up for it. Obama did not. When his pastor came under fire, he turned his back on him. His faith must have been very shallow? And someone please tell him that this is America and we DO NOT have 52 states!

#14.1 REally?? on 11/04/08 at 01:43 PM [Reply]

Are you actually serious? Everything you just said was accurate if you beleive eveything the GOP and NRP spins. For you to say that this young man is ignorant because he believes he is voting for the right person is out right insanity on your part. This is still a democracy, and people are still entitled to oppinions. He stated the facts. The RNP has used scare tactitcs to catch people who aren't paying attention to the real topics. The whole of our government is so scared to use the R word, for fear that the stock will plummet even more and we do need a change. we have had 8 years of republican leadership that has us spending $10 billion dollars a month on a war that, well let's face facts is costing us more lives and money than anyone ever imagined it would. You all to say this young mans youth leaves unable to form a enriched opinion of the facts is absurd. eventually this war will go into history books fro our children to learn about and they will say like so many of my generation has said, we should have never been there. We under estimated the enemy. We invaded because we were attacked. Then every one thought it would be so easy to find Osama and dispose of him, but here it is going on eight years and they havn't caught him yet. If McCain wins tonight we may end over there for another eight years and spending $ 10 billion dollars a month. Now that being said I do belive we were left with a very tough decision here and people are left to vote for who they believe is right. Many people are voting for the lesser of two evils. we will all hope we are votong for the right candidate. so please don't tell someone you hope that your children don't turn out so ignorant they would vote for Obama. That only makes you look ignorant. I would hope that you would look at the decision this young man made form honest and well informed veiws. Be pround he made the choice to make his own decisions and the integrity and intellect to back them up in a articulate way.

#14.1.1 Anonymous on 11/04/08 at 02:11 PM [Reply]

Are you kidding? "Well informed" views? Just using selective (and inaccurate) information is hardly well informed, and failing to consider both sides of the issus is close-minded. And contrary to your statements, this letter displayed ignorance and, as you can hopefully see from the responses here, is easily refuted. This letter may have been written with good intentions, but it is what it is, and in a public forum you're going to get called out and held accountable if your content contains factual or logical errors and fails to make a solid argument. Just because you feel you are making the right decision does not make it the right decision. Your feelings and emotions cannot stand up to scrutiny, and it doesn't matter how well you can articulate them if the content is lacking.

#14.1.1.1 REally?? on 11/04/08 at 03:00 PM [Reply]

He di not make a ignorant stament in his letter, and I don't think I made one in my comment. The things that were said were both printed in the news and on the news. Now the last time I checked it was against thelaw for the AP to print or say anythign that was not ture or could nto be backed up by info. That would be slander and they could be held liable. Please understand that feelings are often tied in with what the brain says is right. If you know that some one's politics are more in synch with your own, then you feel as well as believe you are making a good decision. Don;t be so fast to right some one off for who they think is the better candidate. You are being naive to think that this young man is ignorant to think what he does. Watch any poitical broadcast, read any news apaer and you will see where he got his facts from, it is not as if he pulled them out if thin air. You can not say some one is ignorant because they do not believe what you do. He did use selective facts that backed up why he is voting for Obama, but they were not inaccurate. Don't chastize some one for making their own decision adn being proud enough to voice there decision. The responses really don't hold water because incase you haven't realized it yet there are some people still ignorant enough to not realize that racism and indifference are still thick here and in little towns all over the country. If they don't like him because he is Black, then it is because asd a child he practiced Islam, if not that, then they relie on associations he had with ACORN. Let's get real here. The republicans are feeding off of people's fear of this.

#14.1.1.1.1 Anonymous on 11/04/08 at 03:57 PM [Reply]

ig·no·rant
1 a: destitute of knowledge or education ; also : lacking knowledge or comprehension of the thing specified b: resulting from or showing lack of knowledge or intelligence
2: unaware , uninformed

Sorry, but the definition seems to fit. You did know the definition of the word ignorant, didn't you?

By the way, the ACORN issue probably isn't really legitimate. It would be considered racist to not allow fraudulent voter registrations.

#15 kevin w on 11/04/08 at 06:54 AM [Reply]

12 REASONS BARRACK CHAVEZ OBAMA IS NOT THE ONE

1. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are the causes of this financial disaster. In order to ensure that they were not regulated these corrupt companies bought off congressmen. This is corruption. In just 3 years, these corrupt companies gave Obama $123,000 to buy him off. $123,000. Obama was the second largest recipient of Fannie and Freddie corrupt donations. This is the corruption McCain has fought against his whole life. $123,000 is corruption.

2. Earmark projects are corruption incarnate. Obama had 1 billion dollars worth of earmarks. 1 billion dollars. This is CORRUPTION RUN AMUCK. This money goes to political cronies in return for support and donations, relatives, family members. We are in this financial mess because of this kind of corruption. It created a culture of corruption that lead to the wall street debacle. Barrack Obama is at the very center of this CULTURE OF CORRUPTION. He is the WASHINGTON ESTABLISHMENT CANDIDATE. 1 billion dollars of hard earned tax payer money FLUSHED DOWN THE TOILET BOWL OF POLITICAL CORRUPTION.

3. Barrack Obama gave his First Cousin $70,000 of tax payer money. $70,000 of hard earned tax payer money to his first cousin. We elect representatives to Congress to serve the people. Not to ENRICH themselves. Not to enrich their family members. Not to enrich their political supporters. THIS IS TRULY CORRUPTION.

4. Obama wants to raise taxes on corporations, small businesses, capital gains. If you raise taxes in this economic crisis YOU WILL CAUSE A GREAT DEPRESSION. Business won’t create jobs. People will not invest. The 401 ks of seniors and all Americans won't be worth anything. The DOW WILL COLLAPSE TO to 4000/5000. The US will become another failed state like Venezuela. It’s that simple. If you want a SECOND GREAT DEPRESSION BARACK OBAMA IS YOUR MAN.

5. Obama wants our troops out of Iraq in 16 months. As General Petraeus has warned such a withdrawal will lead to the collapse of the Iraqi government. Iraq is not Afghanistan. IT IS AT THE VERY CENTER OF THE OIL PRODUCING UNIVERSE. If the Iraqi government collapses, OIL PRICES WILL SOAR TO $200.00/barrel and $10.00/gallon/gas. If you want to pay $10.00/gallon/gas vote Barrack Obama.

6. Barrack Obama called our troops fighting in Afghanistan WAR CRIMINALS. He said that they were air raiding villages and killing innocent civilians. WAR CRIMES. You cannot be commander in chief of our great armed forces and call them WAR CRIMINALS. Not only that but these statements put THE LIVES OF OUR TROOPS AT RISK.

7. When Move On. org - a large money Barrack Obama supporter called General Petraeus - one of the greatest American generals - GENERAL BETRAYUS - Barrack Obama refused to vote on a senate motion defending this great general. You cannot be President of the United States and stand by while one of your generals is being viciously maligned. Obama did this because he didn’t want to lose the money from Move On. Barrack Obama is A COWARD.

8. Barrack Obama gave $800.000 to a organization called Acorn. Acorn is trying to steal this election by fraudulently registering thousands and thousands of voters throughout this country - registering everything from dead people to cats, dogs. THIS IS CORRUPTION. Obama has a long and illustrious relationship with Acorn. Incredibility - ACORN leader Wade Rathke was in the Weather Underground along with Bill Ayers.

Ladies and gentlemen of America in the rescue package of 700 billion just passed by Congress the Democrats tried to include $500,000,000 for ACORN. DO YOU HEAR WHAT I JUST SAID - 500 MILLION FOR ACORN. THATS ONE OF THE REASONS MCCAIN RUSHED BACK TO WASHINGTON TO KILL THIS FRAUDULENT FUNDING. In Chicago, Obama was involved in training Acorn activists to go to the HOMES OF BANK PRESIDENTS AND THREATEN THEM IF THEY DID NOT GIVE OUT FRAUDELENT LOANS THAT COULD NEVER BE REPAID. $500 million to Acorn by the democrats in Congress and $800,000 from Obama. Can you imagine what will happen with Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid and Obama in charge. Acorn will get the 500 million. 100%. Every vote is precious. It is the very essence of our democracy.

9. Bill Ayers was a terrorist who bombed the Pentagon, police stations and homes of people trying to capture him. Obama has a long and illustrious relationship with this arch criminal and hater of the US. Obama received $50 million dollars from Ayers to indoctrinate children in Chicago in revolutionary ideology. NOT READING AND WRITING AND SCIENCE BUT REVOLUTIONARY IDEOLOGY like Chavez teaches in Venezuela . Obama says - he was just a guy living in my neighborhood. Obama doesn’t understand that as President one of your most important obligations is NOT TO LIE TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.

10. Obama called the people of this country when he thought nobody was tape recording his great genius - Bitter people clinging to their bibles and their guns. You cannot denigrate the great people of this country and be their president.

11. In order to create a PERMANENT DEMOCRATIC PARTY MAJORITY - Obama and the Democrats will FAST TRACK CITZENSHIP FOR ALL 12 to 20 million illegal immigrants. And all those who will pour into the US to share in the new STATE WELFARE STATE. This will happen immediately. Funds will be poured into ACORN to organize Chavez style American cities to create a class of permanent dependents permanently dependent on the Democrats for handouts all educated in the education of anti - capitalism revolutionary politics.

12. By refusing to honor his agreement made to McCain and the American electorate to accept public financing, Obama is buying the Presidency. The McCain- Feingold reform imperfect as it was, at least made an attempt to take money and hence corruption out of Presidential politics. There is $200 million campaign contributions unaccounted for by Obama. By swamping the elections with money, Obama has institutionzed corruption making a farce out of democracy and the democratic principal of free and fair elections.
mccain palin 08

#16 Anonymous on 11/04/08 at 08:29 PM [Reply]

This is just a big response to all the things I’ve seen in this forum, in no particular order:

Just FOR YOUR INFORMATION, Obama is not Muslim. His father used to be Muslim but then converted to atheism. Obama was sent to both Muslim and Christian schools across the nation, for educational purposes only. Obama is a Christian and was sworn in as Senator on his own Bible (not the Quran).
And even if Obama was Muslim, our nation is considered to be "The Melting Pot." We are supposed to be the melting pot- with freedom as a foundation. This says that even if George Bush wanted to turn to Buddhism, no one could stop him.

And, with the harshness in some of your tones, I feel like you associate stereotypical terms with all Muslims. That's prejudiced. I know many Muslims who aren’t terrorists. Not everyone has the same beliefs as you or even as me, being a Christian. And, that’s their right.

Also, Obama has never failed to say the pledge of allegiance. This little white lie has come from a picture taken at a barbeque where Obama failed to have his hand placed over his heart. The reason for that: the national anthem was playing, and it’s perfectly politically correct to stand with your hands by your side during the National Anthem.

Also, Wesley as you call him isn’t an aggressive, angry person. I know him. And he’s a very intelligent person. He wouldn’t have gotten into one of the top colleges in the state if he weren’t.

And to all who think that our generation will bring the end of the world-who’s fault is that? The past generation’s. And why are we in the state of destructed economy that we find ourselves in now? Past generations, their choices, and their policy of “by now, pay later.”

So, I commend you Wes. Good job.

#17 Wesley D. Lewis on 11/04/08 at 11:36 PM [Reply]

To all of those who responded to my argument pre-election day and stuck to the issues, I thank you. Even if you disagreed with what I said, I appreciate the open debate and dialogue; that's what I was going for. However, sitting here post-election, for those of you who read my article and responded with vicious, personal attacks on myself and on CHS, UGA, etc. I have but one thing to leave you with to remember me by: parting is such sweet sorrow; vindication...is much sweeter.

#17.1 Proud American on 11/05/08 at 07:02 AM [Reply]

GOD HELP AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

#17.1.1 I love my country on 11/05/08 at 05:28 PM [Reply]

To Proud American: Yes, God forbid we have one of the worst recessions in decades and one of the biggest attacks on American soil like we did when Bush was in office. Things can only get better from here. Just accept it. It's really not that bad to have a president that has a different color skin as you.

#17.1.1.1 sick of obama supporters who have nothing betterto do but blame republicans on 11/06/08 at 11:00 AM [Reply]

I could care less if the mans skin was green. I don't want a man as my President who has said on television that "now that I am about to be President of the United States I have put my hatred aside." I want a man who LOVES this country as I do, not some one who just has a pretty speech with nothing to back it up. A man who won this election based on his race and the lies spouted out of his mouth. A man who only wants to Change this nation for the power it will give him. If you are the poor idiot that believed his promises then I'm sorry for how foolish you are. Please lets give credit where credit is due, the Democrates are the one who put his nation in a finacial crisis, not Bush. I do believe if you'll look the Dem's are the ones that controled fannie mae and freddie mac. They are the ones that allowed bad loans to be given out. They didn't want to change the "boom" in the housing market. They are all knee deep with the acorn organization. Now you may say well no one had a job so they could pay their morgage, well Clinton (who is a Democrate) opened the door for our Companies to be sent over seas, not Bush. So yes there will be a change coming to America, but not a good one from Obama, an Awesome one from GOD!!

#17.1.1.1.1 C on 11/07/08 at 11:15 AM [Reply]

First off, how dare you insinuate that Obama does not love this country!
You condemn people that don’t believe the same things as you. That is perhaps the most ignorant thing I have ever heard. It is not the democrats ruining the country, or the republicans. It is prejudiced people such as you, people who assume that someone who doesn’t think the same as you are foolish and idiots. YOU make me sick. It is truly disgusting to read your words, especially in the year 2008 when one would think that humans had come far enough not to spout hatred against those they disagree with.

#17.2 Anonymous on 11/05/08 at 07:24 AM [Reply]

Vindication will be decided four years from now. Just because the majority voted the way you wanted does not make it the right decision, and it certainly does not mean you are vindicated. I'm afraid you will look back in four years and wonder what the heck you were thinking. Feel free to talk about vindication at that point.

#17.3 D on 11/05/08 at 04:31 PM [Reply]

I have just read all these posts from the past several days. Now I find that I too am inclined to want to respond.

First, Wesley, good for you. For standing up and voicing your opinions and beliefs that started this stimulating conversation. Dont ever feel to "young" or "inexperienced" to say what you feel. It is so sad to see many self-proclaimed Christians here bashing you for your opinions. I would not think that would be a very Christian way to treat others.

I will first say that I am glad that the McCain/Palin team did not win yesterday. Although I am NOT a huge Obama supporter either. However, I felt that our country did need a change. Palin certainly wasnt it. I am still shocked that she had so much support. Listening to her always made me scratch my head and ask why anyone would trust that woman. I deeply admire McCains service to our country, and he deserves much respect for that. No doubt about it!

I agree with Wesley that the Republicans used many fear tactics and slander at times. Which I believe was much of his missed point.

For those of you Christian Republicans that fear socialism/communism, gay marriage, abortion, and the poor getting all your money - I hope you can try to look beyond that. I am surprised to see so many "average joe" Americans afraid that Obama will take their money away. If you all make $250,000+ a year, then I say you are doing pretty good. Does it mean that you work harder than the lesser paid folks? Probably not. Im sure many of you make an average middle class living and work your butts off every day to support your family. So, hopefully, his tax plans will help you out too.

In the end, we are all just people trying to do our best to live a good life. I hope that this change is what America needs. Would anyone really want another four years of Bush? Obama is one man that has a big job to do. It wont be done overnight, nor do I think he will "run America into the ground". Have hope. Otherwise, I suppose the alternative is to leave this grand country. Where we all have the right to comment on our political opinions without being shot for it.

D

#17.3.1 Anonymous on 11/07/08 at 09:19 AM [Reply]

D-
Thanks for your fair and respectable response. It's good to read opinions from others that differ but do not insult.

#18 kevin on 11/05/08 at 07:41 AM [Reply]

word of advise for all americans go now and buy a good pair of shoes spend your money on the pair that feels right and will not hurt your feet by having to wear them for extended amounts of time.. the reason is this in the late 20's and early 30's folks stood in line for work , food , ect. the cheif complaint other than worry and being hungry was that thier feet hurt from standing in the bread lines and soup lines and for jobs that were being offered at the rate of 1 job for every 128 people that wanted it so get good shoes your gonna need em !

#18.1 Amused on 11/05/08 at 05:05 PM [Reply]

Kevin: You should stick to cutting and pasting other people's words, because when you write something of your own your near illiteracy shows. Can't spell, can't punctuate, believe everything on the Internet that suits your viewpoint, look like an eighth-grade dropout. A most enlightened voter!

#18.2 Jane on 11/05/08 at 05:25 PM [Reply]

Kevin,
Where have you been for the last few years? I think I'll take my chances on the new guy!

#18.3 sonya on 11/10/08 at 06:07 AM [Reply]

i think that you mean well you just come off sounding really aragant and cocky.Grow up this is the year 2008 and we are all equal

#19 sonya on 11/05/08 at 01:23 PM [Reply]

i dont know what to say every body feels the need to attack but yet they dont have enough balls to put a name on it.true supporters now arent we.you know what are we better off or worse off with obama when president bush sits there in the white house while he is in business with the hussien family and how about him just sitting there when they told him about the attack on 9-11. you know what at this point nothing surprises me.but dont nobody sit there and say that the younger generation dont know what in the hell we're talking about and that we will destroy this country because as far as i'm concerned the older generation already has and its about damn time us young people stood up and made some changes.abortion same sex marriages your right its not godly but what are you going to do about it they are going to do it any way you can't stop it okay dont legalize same sex marriages but they are still together and they still walk the earth what have you changed nothing. these are point less to argue when there is nothing that can be done about to change the fact that some people are GAY!!! abortion is a truley sad thing but if they want it done they will find a way to do it.Argue about something that you can change. better yet do something help someone out feed a child here instead of sending money overseas to feed other countries.Feed your neighbor or even cloth him.but stop fighting with him over stuff that you cant change.Are we doomed yes but we were doomed before tues night some how some where ALL americans have lost sight of what it really means to live free.What happened to everybodys love of the u.s and eachother????? SONYA

#20 Proud American on 11/05/08 at 04:42 PM [Reply]

I have never been so proud to be an American as I am now. The future looks so bright and positive.

"So let us summon a new spirit of patriotism; of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves, but each other." -Barack Obama

#21 PROUD AMERICAN!!!!!!!! on 11/05/08 at 07:02 PM [Reply]

I just wanna say thanks to all of the people who voted for obama!! I am a student at CHS and I am in support of John McCain. I would like to point out that I come a very patriotic family and I myself am very patriotic. I am not for gay marriages, abortion, raising taxes, etc. Marriage is meant to be for ONE MAN AND ONE WOMAN. NOT MAN AND MAN OR WOMAN AND WOMAN. I am against abortions because I believe that if you make the decision to have sex you should suffer the consequences, yes even pregnancy! You may not realize this but you are breaking the commandment, "Thou shalt not kill"!!!! Did you realize? I didnt think so. I dont think that a nonchristian should be president. I dont think its right to vote for someone just because of race. You should vote for someone because of what they believe in and what you believe in and how they are gonna affect the GREATEST COUNTRY ON EARTH, AMERICA!!!! Im positively sure most of you have not heard about what obama said on Meet the Press. He said word for word: From Sunday's Televised 'Meet the Press' Senator Obama was asked about his stance on the American Flag. Obama Explains National Anthem Stance Sun, 07 Sept. 2008 11:48:04 EST, General Bill Ginn' USAF (ret.) asked Obama to explain why he doesn't follow protocol when the National Anthem is played. The General also stated to the Senator that according to the United States Code,
Title 36, Chapter 10, Sec. 171... During rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform are expected to stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. At the very least, 'Stand and Face It'

Senator Obama Live on Sunday stated:

'As I've said about the flag pin, I don't want to be perceived as taking sides, Obama said. 'There are a lot of people in the world to whom the American flag is a symbol of oppression. And the anthem itself conveys a war-like message. You know, the bombs bursting in air and all. It should be swapped for something less parochial and less bellicose. I like the son g 'I'd Like To Teach the World To Sing.' If that were our anthem, then I might salute it.'We should consider to reinvent our National Anthem as well as to redesign our Flag to better offer our enemies hope and love. It's my intention, if elected, to disarm America to the level of acceptance
to our Middle East Brethren. If we as a Nation of warring people, should conduct ourselves as the nations of Islam, whereas peace prevails. Perhaps a state or period of mutual concord between our governments. When I become President, I will seek a pact or agreement to end
hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity, and a freedom from disquieting oppressive thoughts. We as a Nation have placed upon the nations of Islam an unfair injustice.
My wife disrespects the Flag for many personal reasons. Together she and I have attended several flag burning ceremonies in the past, many years ago
. She has her views and I have mine'. Of course now, I have found myself about to become the President of the
< st1:country-region>
United States
and I have put aside my hatred.
I will use my power to bring CHANGE to this Nation, and offer the people a new path of hope. My wife and I look forward to becoming our Country's First Family. Indeed, CHANGE is about to overwhelm the United States of America .'

I hope many of you noticed the lines about OBAMA AND HIS WIFE ATTENDING FLAD BURNING CEREMONIES. IF YOU ARE GONNA BE DISRESPECTFUL ENOUGH TO BURN THE AMERICAN FLAG, THEN YOU NEED TO LEAVE THIS COUNTRY. AMERICAN AIRLINES IS READY WHEN YOU ARE. IF YOU MUST BURN OUR FLAG, DO US[THE PATRIOTIC PEOPLE] A FAVOR AND WRAP YOURSELF IN THE FLAG FIRST, AND THEN BURN IT!!!!!

I ALSO HOPE YOU NOTICED THE PART ABOUT CHANGING THE NATIONAL ANTHEM AND FLAD DESIGN. FIRST OFF, THE NATIONAL ANTHEM WAS WRITTEN TO SHOW OUR PRIDE AS AMERICANS AND THAT WE DIDNT HAVE OUR FREEDOM HANDED TO US...WE FOUGHT FOR IT!!!!! I DONT UNDERSTAND HOW THE ANTHEM IS DISPLAYING WAR-LIKE MESSAGES.

My generation is gonna suffer greatly because of this man. It infuriates me to know that obama won the election.

I find this suspicious there is no known record of obama's birth certificate. Do you want someone to be president that doesnt even have a known birth record?

I leave you with this question. Now do you regret voting for Obama after hearing all of this?

#21.1 Anonymous on 11/06/08 at 07:30 AM [Reply]

I doubt it. Most of the people who voted for Obama have poor listening, not to mention cognitive, skills.

#21.2 c on 11/06/08 at 10:56 AM [Reply]

I am also a student at CHS and I must say, after reading your ignorant and incorrect comments, I am truly embarrassed to have you as a classmate. PRESIDENT (not senator) Obama never said those things. Obama did not appear on Meet the Press that day, and has NEVER said anything like that. In the future, I advise that you do a little research before you speak to avoid looking uninformed.

You need to realize that not everyone in this world is a Christian. You can’t say that something should be illegal and then thump your bible in defense. Not everyone believes the same things as you. In the year 2008, I would hope that we are past attacking people simply because of their religion, race, or opinions, but that is obviously still the case.

You call yourself patriotic, but you are still condemning the man who was elected by your fellow Americans. Your accusations are not even true. For example, Obama is a Christian, but even if he wasn’t that would have nothing to do with his ability to lead. America has spoken, and Obama is president. Screaming insults and vicious lies about the president in times such as this is perhaps the most unpatriotic thing I have ever heard. If you care about this country, then you should accept the fact that Obama is our leader and do everything in your power to help him and help get us out of the terrible economic situation we’re in as a nation.

And to the other person that commented…
What an amazing generalization! People that supported PRESIDENT Obama have poor listening skills? Maybe people like you should learn not to believe everything you hear.

And to all of that are continuing to bash PRESIDENT Obama…
Keep talking, it doesn’t matter now, the people have spoken. If you love your country, try to unite it. That’s what would really be patriotic, not building up a wall between yourselves and the leader.

#21.2.1 Anonymous on 11/06/08 at 01:17 PM [Reply]

Did you build up a wall with the previous president or did you try to support him and unite the country? Something tells me you're only for your brand of patriotic unity when the candidate of your choice is in office. If McCain had been elected, would you feel the same way about this as you do with Obama?

Also, even though the people have spoken, it does not mean they made the right decision. It just means this matter is settled and we don't have a choice for another four years.

#21.2.1.1 c on 11/06/08 at 03:05 PM [Reply]

Well, seeing as how I was 9 when Bush was elected, no I was not too invested in his campaign or administration. But I have defended some of his decisions because I realize that it is probably difficult to be the leader of the free world. So, thank you for your judgments, but you're wrong. You know nothing about me or of "my brand of patriotism." I was simply stating that complaining and whining will have no effect anymore, so if one cares about the fate of America, they should work towards solving its problems and bringing the people together, not reinforcing the divisions between us.

And, no, I would not have been as excited about the next four years if McCain was president, but I would recognize that complaining and smearing his name would not change the fact that he was elected.

Maybe all of you should wait a while, perhaps until after his inauguration, before you start talking about how wrong America was for electing Obama and actually see what kind of a president he becomes.

#21.2.1.1.1 Anonymous on 11/06/08 at 07:51 PM [Reply]

I think that's part of the point - "see what kind of a president he becomes". This doesn't just apply to those who were for McCain. It also applies to those who think that Tuesday was the coronation of our savior. He will need our support, but in four years he will also need to be held accountable by the voters for the job he has done in office. I hope he surprises me and does a good job, in which case he would deserve another term. But, in what is the most likely scenario, if he does not do that great of a job and we are worse off in four years, don't say that we didn't tell you so. At this time, I'm not saying that Obama was the wrong decision, but on the merit no one is justified in saying that the voters got it right either.

#21.2.1.1.1.1 c on 11/07/08 at 11:00 AM [Reply]

I didn't think it was the "coronation of a savior."
But all of you are insisting that he will be the worst thing that has ever happened to this country. No one knows that. I also realize that he will make mistakes, so I am not saying that he will be a perfect president.
I’m just stating that you have to wait and see what actually happens before you make comments such as, “he does not do that great of a job and we are worse off in four years.”
Everyone is so bitter about McCain’s loss that they are calling Obama’s presidency a failure, and it hasn’t even started yet.

#21.2.1.1.1.1.1 Anonymous on 11/07/08 at 11:56 AM [Reply]

Umm...there was an "if" in front of the statement you quoted. Just a reminder, be sure you are not calling Obama's presidency a success before it begins either.

#21.2.1.1.1.1.1.1 c on 11/07/08 at 02:34 PM [Reply]

I am in no way doing that!!
I'm saything that you can't determine what kind of president he will be before his term even starts!
That's the point I was trying to make.
But thanks for the "reminder"

#21.2.2 kevin on 11/06/08 at 03:23 PM [Reply]

President elect ! (not President) its clear that you are a product of Goverment schools

#21.2.2.1 Anonymous on 11/07/08 at 11:03 AM [Reply]

We all sincerely appreciated your totally relevant and intelligent comment!
Thanks!

#21.3 Lauren on 11/06/08 at 11:26 AM [Reply]

I also attend Commerce High School, and although I am sure that I am going to catch a lot of heat for what I am about to say, I really think it needs to be said. First of all, I think that it is perfectly fine to believe what you want when it concerns religion, but you also need to stop and realize that not everyone believes what you do. I do not support organized religion because in my experience it only breeds hate and judgment. I do, however, believe in God and his promises. That being said, I do not believe that a Christian who could quite possibly make the economic and social situations in America worse deserves to be president simply because he is a Christian. That is not logical. I support Barack Obama because I think that he will be the best president. I am pro choice, for gay marriage, and raising taxes if that it what it takes to fix our economic woes. At this point however, it really doesn’t matter, because Obama is our president.

#21.3.1 kevin on 11/06/08 at 03:20 PM [Reply]

its not what this country needs and you will reap what you have sow

#21.3.1.1 Anonymous on 11/07/08 at 10:54 AM [Reply]

Well, I sincerely hope that is the case because I am perfectly fine with reaping what I sow.

#22 Joe Christmas on 11/07/08 at 04:47 AM [Reply]

This reply goes to Lauren. I am also a Commerce High school alumnus from many years ago. I am also a christian and I want to assure you that the people who get on here and spew their hatred and lies and bigotry have nothing in common with the teachings of Jesus and and do a great disservice to christians everywhere. Ignorance and intolerance are not limited to right wing christians anymore than left wingers or atheist. As you get older and possibly get away from Commerce you will find more open minds and more viewpoints. I would ask you to give christianity another chance. Read the first four books of the New Testament. You will find that the teachings of Jesus to include love for your brother, compassion for the poor and to resist violence. This is something that I am sorry to say many in organized religion do not follow.

#22.1 Lauren on 11/07/08 at 11:04 AM [Reply]

I really thank you for your sincere response. I was not trying to bash religion, although rereading what I wrote, it sort of seems that way. I completely agree with you on everything you said. It just astounds me that some people will say terrible, hateful things about Obama, and then in the same breath, talk about their “Christian values”. Personally, I think John McCain is an excellent man, with unimpeachable character and morals, but I think that Obama was the better choice for our next president, simply because I agree more with his policies. It is not even about that anymore on this message board. People talk as if Obama has already made some horrible mistake and he isn’t even the president yet.

#23 Colton on 11/07/08 at 01:48 PM [Reply]

I ask all of you, on both sides, to shut up!!! It's over and done with!!! Obama is soon to be our president and there is nothing opossers can do about it, and those who are bragging are not helping the situation either. Our country is never going to get out of the awful state that it is in if all the citizens do is complain and argue! I wish all the best to Pres Obama and hope that his time in office is a success for the betterment of our country!

Once again

SHUT UP!!!

#23.1 c on 11/07/08 at 02:30 PM [Reply]

I agree.
But people aren't going to stop talking about politics just because the election is over. Especially this election...

#24 Amanda on 11/08/08 at 08:24 AM [Reply]

Wesley,I would like to apologize to you. When I wrote my post I was anger and I should not have been judgemental of you.

To Lauren, I also would like to apologize to you It was never my intention to drive someone away form Chritian values. But I do agree about rereading what I wrote it sounded worse the second time around.

#25 sonya on 11/08/08 at 01:26 PM [Reply]

I think that it is so funny how everybody is calling themselves a christian but yet can't even put their name on what they write. How about how they talk about how they are a proud Mccain supporter but still where is the name.You know what, if you are so proud to be a christian then put your name on what you preach God did and that is what it means to be a christian.You know what, you should put your name on it just because if you truly believe what you say and you are proud of who you elected at the poll but the way I see it all of you that left it out that maybe your not so proud of who you voted for maybe you just did it because thats who your friends voted for??? You know I wasen't sure who would make the best President and I even had my doubts about Obama but you know what, in reality one man can not change a nation it takes a nation to change it.Right now the ignorance on this comment page is not looking like anybody is trying to come together as a nation to resolve the problems that are currently destroying us.If you are so upset with what is going on then do something about it, but remember everybody wants the same thing in the end why kill eachother trying to get there when we'll get there faster if we'll just unite together and work towards the goals that we as the people that reside in this great nation set forth.Stop argueing on the problems that can't be changed like pro-life and gay marriages and start focusing on what we can change like homeless,poverty,and hunger we all can do just a little something to help make a big change in the world.Stop the fighting stop being at war with your neighbor this is our world change it together because we can't do it one man standing alone.And one more thing from the mouth of a very smart 5year old"YOU GET WHAT YOU GET AND YOU DON'T PITCH A FIT" SONYA

#26 Ellie on 11/09/08 at 09:46 PM [Reply]

I must say, this is getting heated. No, I was not for Barack Obama. And in all honesty, I do not know why. I do not know why I voted for McCain, and I do not know why I didn't vote for Obama. But, I can tell you this: I am proud to see a fellow graduate from Commerce High who is intelligent enough to research our elections. Even before this man could vote, he researched politicians. He knows more than most of you put together.
I also must say that a lot of you who commented on Mr. Lewis' post are obviously middle-aged, old fashioned, ignorant people. There is nothing wrong with this at all. However, before you begin to discredit a young man, how about doing a little of your own research instead of listening to the "paid for and supported by" commercials. Ha! Those things telling the truth is like Commerce getting 10 inches of snow. Just because you pay taxes *ahem The Libertarian* does not mean the younger crowd doesn't. Think about it.
I am quite honestly ashamed and embarrased for the city of Commerce that so many people would share their ignorant, closed-minded opinions over the internet. It's words like yours that make me wonder how you even figured out how to turn the computer on, much less sign onto the internet. But congratulations for making it this far!

#27 kevin w on 11/10/08 at 07:09 AM [Reply]

Do you believe uncompromisingly in the right to life? In your bill of rights? Especially your first amendment right to free speech? Do you believe in your right to bear arms? Do you believe in the freedom of Religion? Do you believe that Americans should only be taxed to the extent necessary for government to provide the basic services of government required by the Constitution? Do you believe that judges should be empathetic toward the Constitution rather than toward the situation of the little guy as our President-elect phrases it? Do you believe in redistribution of wealth through unfair taxation or do you believe wealth sharing is a personal choice? Do you believe in a strong national defense? If you believe in those things, then you need to find a candidate for Congress who does for 2010.
Keep your heads up troops. It is time to strap it on, leave the perimeter, and take the political fight to the socialists who have laid siege to our Capitol.

#27.1 anon on 11/10/08 at 11:06 AM [Reply]

I think this is exactly what the original letter was talking about…scare tactics, McCarthyism, throwing around words like communism and socialism.
You did nothing but further prove his point…

#27.1.1 kevin w on 11/10/08 at 12:09 PM [Reply]

every one of those are legit questions ! call it what yopu want but they are just questions !!albeit hard for a obama supporter to answer because they pose a willingness to let freedoms that been here disapear!

#27.1.2 Anonymous on 11/10/08 at 12:12 PM [Reply]

I believe these are valid questions that should be answered. As far as scare tactics, sometimes the truth is scary. There you go.

#28 sadiegirl on 11/20/08 at 02:34 PM [Reply]

Boy are you young and inexperienced. wait until you are dry behind the ears and come back to have an adult conversation. I guess your just another one of those college kids that think they know more than God.
I for one will pray for you . I voted for Obama and I am regretting it already

#28.1 Anonymous on 11/20/08 at 05:02 PM [Reply]

It looks like the stock market has been regretting it too.

#28.2 Anonymous on 11/23/08 at 10:53 AM [Reply]

Don't critize someone because they're younger than you.
It just makes you sound bitter.

#29 kathy on 11/21/08 at 10:48 AM [Reply]

sadiegirl: You voted for Obama and you are regretting it already? He hasn't even taken the oath of office!!!!

I think you need to work on your own problems before you start criticizing someone else for trying to develop a social conscious.

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Letter: GOP using scare tactics in election

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Letter: GOP using scare tactics in election

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