Florida plays big role in 2008 elections

Democrat Hilary Clinton and Republican Rudy Giuliani led the pack as presidential candidates raked in $13.5 million from Florida donators. Florida will play a key role in next year's presidential election with its early primary, taking place on January 29, 2008. As new Federal Election Commission numbers show, Florida is a key source of money to pay for those campaigns, ranking fourth behind California, New York and Texas. Florida figures have Clinton with $62.5 million and Giuliani with $35.4 million.

For the second consecutive quarter, Democrats outraised Republicans world-wide. Because of such statistics, many Republicans are worried for the election process and the presidential race. I think that worry would be an emotion to expect when dealing with strong opinions and views on politics and elections, especially for the upcoming presidential race, which will be the first race that contains a woman and African-American candidate. Should the Republicans worry?

Iraq Divisions Extended to 2008 Race

During a debate between the Senate and Republican John McCain, it was stated that the divisions over Iraq were to be extended to the 2008 presidential campaign. While the Democrats are demanding troop withdrawals from the war, McCain is steadfastly backing President Bush's war strategy. McCain states, "Defeat there would be catastrophic ... as long as we have a chance to succeed we must try to succeed."

I disagree with what McCain stated. We've been in the war long enough, and it hasn't even done us any good. Why stay there longer when nothing good comes out of it and nothing benefits the U.S from it? I don't think we should stay in war. I'm not saying i'm siding with the Democrats, but I do believe that staying and fighting in the war isn't necessary.

So. Pasadena & the 710

On July 10, 2007 a meeting was help to discuss the 710 freeway proposal. The plan is to link the 10 and 210 freeways by building a link and completing the 710. The government wants to tunnel under South Pasadena and finish the dead end freeway. The meeting began at 6:30 and was open to the public. Sally Kilby, city clerk specified that the meeting would be beneficial for Mike Ten, South Pasadena’s new councilman. The cost of this proposal is estimated to be between $2.3 billion and $3.6 billion. Neighboring cities Alhambra and Monterey Park are in support for the proposal.

Being a resident of this town, I feel the 710 freeway should not be built through South Pasadena. Not only will it add more commotion and chaos, but the city itself is small and calm. To keep the historic and homey neighborhood a freeway should not be built. I can understand why Alhambra is in support because of the traffic congestion it causes at the dead end on Valley. However, spending billions of dollars while also disrupting a city for years is just not worth the completion of this freeway. It was also estimated that it could take up to 11 years. South Pasadena has for decades refused the 710 and for now will continue too.

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-pasadena10jul10,1,2872155.story?ctrack=1&cset=true

Regional Conference

The New York Times and Washington Post lead, while the Wall Street Journal tops its world-wide newsbox, with President Bush's announcement that he plans to bring the Middle East peace process back to the forefront by calling for a regional conference in the fall. Bush also emphasized U.S. support for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and promised to send $80 million in direct aid. Although Bush recognized that his vision of a "two-state solution" is still a distant dream, he urged countries in the region to send high-level officials to the conference so that "today's Arab leaders can show themselves to be the equals of peacemakers like Anwar Sadat and King Hussein of Jordan."

I guess I'm glad that Bush might consider bringing peace process back to the forefront by calling a regional conference. A few weeks ago, Bush wanted to continue the war. He said, ""I don't think Congress ought to be running the war. I think they ought to be funding the troops". I just hope the 80 million dollars would really help because doesnt' the US have about 12 billion dollars in debt or whatnot?

An appeal to the majority: Richardson rolls out his agenda for women

Bill Richardson, the govenor of New Mexico and a candidate for the Democratic presidential election. He promised to support women and take more steps than any other contender to assist them. Many issues that he thought was important for women was improving access to health care and education and ending the war in Iraq. In his campaign, he plans to improve the lives of women and their families. Also, "protect access to abortion and passing an equal rihts amendment." Broadening access to day care, creating Social Security credits and enforce better pay equity are other things he plans.
I think this is great, especially for women. It is great that a politican is acknowledging women and the needs that they need. Many of these things might help single mothers.

election spending out of control

The big news this week has been the race to raise money and once again Senator Obama has astounded political observers by substantially out raising Senator Clinton. Obama has certainly energized a large group of democratic voters. Never before have so many given so much money. Despite the enthusiasm Obama has not succeeded in moving beyond his current group of supporters. There have been three democratic debates and Clinton seems to have won each of the debates. She always seems to come across as more prepared, and more ready to be the President from the first day. On the other hand there is no taking away from the fact that the enthusiasm for Obama certainly amongst the large cadre of 250,000 donors is not waning. Edwards fundraising was down a little. Governor Richards everyone favorite dark horse seems to have gained a little traction and raised 7 million dollars, nothing like the 32 million that Obama raised, but then Richardson has a small staff and an operation that does not require the same level of cash. We tend to blame the cost of media for the high cost of running campaigns, but I wonder how much each candidate is paying their top advisors and consultants.

i strongly believe that the amount of money presidential candidates are spending to get votes is insane. the money spend for commercials and new conferences could be better spend, and could be used to get you votes as well. pretend a candidate spend 32 million like obama did into saving the environment. i belive that this would get tons of newscoverage and could get votes as well as help the environment. If you do something that millions of people will har about is much better spent than posters or postcards that are just through away as bulk by millions of american citizens

Republicans abandoning Bush!

Everyone knows that the presidential elections are right around the corner and George Bush is trying to work his last Miracles before his term is up. As President Bush attempts to revive the controversial immigration reform bill he supports, the latest NBC News/Wall Street Journal poll finds that Republicans are abandoning the president, which has dropped his job-approval rating below 30 percent -- his lowest mark ever in the survey.
But he isn’t the only one whose support is on the decline in the poll. Congress’ approval rating has plummeted eight points, bringing it below even Bush’s. And just one in five believe the country is on the right track, which is the lowest number on this question in nearly 15 years. This drop comes as Bush tries to resuscitate the comprehensive immigration reform bill in the U.S. Senate, which has angered many Americans -- particularly conservatives -- because they believe its provisions allowing for a path to citizenship for illegal immigrants amount to “amnesty.” Bush and other supporters of the legislation dispute that charge. I wondered why Americans felt this when it seemed as if Goerge Bush is trying to do something Generous for once and the people don't agree with him. I also has me wondering why his approval ratings didn't drop during the war in Iraq. While Hilary Clintos ratings seem to be going up. Mabye the democratic party will be gianing the majority of the people this upcoming election.

Michigan Supreme Court Controversy: Upholding Law Requiring Photo ID to Vote

Michigan Supreme Court ruled a law to require photo identification when voting is constitutional on Wednesday July, 18, 2007. This issue has been dividing Republicans and Democrats for a decade. The law originally stated that if voters did not have a photo I.D., they can sign an affidavit swearing to their identity and then vote. Renewal of the photo I.D. law in 2005, required the I.D. to receive a ballot and was shot down by former Attorney General Frank Kelley, a Democrat. He believed that that it violated the 14th Amendment protection clause. Supporters of the law say that it would help prevent election fraud. Critics says it discourages the poor, elderly, disabled and minorities from voting and compared the law to a poll tax. Others argue that the affidavit will prevent it from becoming like a poll tax.

I believe that it does violate the 14th Amendment because it brings another requirement to allowing citizens a right to vote. It seems to me to be another way the system is keeping the rich in power, and the poor hopelessly trapped by society.

Small donors give big to Obama

Summary- The Illinois Democrat Mr. Obama baced on this article has just outplayed his other competitiors for the presidency by tapping into and getting himself indorced by people that give less then $200 to his campaign. These people actually amased into an unusually large nimber of supporters and providers and gave a good $9.7 million of the $33 million he has owned so far in the second quarter of this years election. In the first half of the year he raised $58.5 millon and is giving the compotition a run for there money.

What I think- I am in full support for Obama and his nomination for the president of the united states. He may be young but from this article you can tell hat he is fully qualified for the position.

Winfrey, Obama just the ticket!

This article is about Oprah Winfrey talking about how she believes that Obama is the right person the presidency election. She stated to Larry King, "I think that what he stands for, what he has proven that he can stand for, what he has shown was worth me going out on a limb for and I haven't done it in the past because I haven't felt that anybody — I didn't know anybody well enough to be able to say, I believe in this person." With this passion, respect, and belief, Winfrey had opened up her Santa Barbara-area estate to help fund her fellow Chicagoan friend, Barack Obama. The ticket at the door started at $2,300, whcih was the most allowable under the federal capaign financial limits. In addition, tickets were risen at $50,000, to enter and stay for dinner; which included the "wander through the house while searching for a bathroom."

I think Oprah Winfrey is someone big and someone a lot of people idolize. If she wants Obama to be president, so will a whole bunch of others. She has a whole lot of power to change people's mind. Lately, I've been seeing that political matters are becoming into a hollywood thing. Media has given them so much attention turning them into celebrities with loving and hating fans. Recently, I found myspace that had a very pretty girl with pictures of herself wearing a shirt that says, " I LOVE OBAMA." People are forming into fans of presidents or candidates. It's like me loving Johnny Depp and wearing shirt saying, "I LOVE DEPP." Wow! Amazing!

south pasadena blogs

I kind of chuckled when I saw the phrase "downtown revitalization" used in both of these articles. Granted, I am excited about the fact that the city is intentionally setting out to liven up the Mission West district. But I previously lived in Houston, where revitalization meant a radical overhaul of the downtown area: a new light rail, new streets, numerous buildings refurbished and occupied, and an upsurge of lofts and nightlife in the area. In other words, truly new life in a largely dead and abandoned area.One thing I was impressed by is that the city sent out a questionnaire asking residents about what developments they would like to see in town. I don't remember getting this, although I quite easily could have overlooked it or thought it was junk mail. 1,000 people did reply so it seems that the city has a strong community voice to take into account on the matter. I guess I'm impressed because they apparently didn't just hand over the whole project to an outside developer.I am no expert on the matter. I guess I'm thinking out loud and trying to get a better grasp on community planning issues with the hope that one day I might settle in South Pasadena. One of the articles mentioned that most of the businesses on Mission are currently family-owned. As much as I would appreciate new amenities nearby, I hope that the city is careful not to completely turn over the dowtown area to corporate interests.Here is the city's website devoted to the future of downtown South Pas. I haven't had a chance to read the official Framework for Downtown Development, which seems to clearly outline the city's plans. The website emphasizes the city's desire for the community to be involved every step of the way:
A crucial part of this process is community participation. The Commission is committed to creating opportunities for public involvement so that anyone who wants to learn more about or provide feedback to the process can do so.




i read about how a guy came to south pasadena and he found out they wanted to modernize south pasadena. I hope they don't change too much.

Winfrey, Obama just the ticket

Oprah Winfrey will open up her Santa Barbara Estate for Barrack Obama to hold a fundraising on September 8. Barrack's campaign in the entertainment industry has made him pull in more mone than Hillary Clinton. A one single ticket at the door for this event is going up for $2300 which is the most allowable under federal campaign laws. He will fork about $25,000 from friends, family and a few high-class strangers. For $50,000, you can stay for dinner and wonder the house. Oprah has nothing against Hillary but says that she knows Obama and is for what he stands for and supports him all the way.


In my opinion this is a good way to get ahead of the compettion for political race. Oprah is a huge person in the entertainment world and has been known for helping others like the American Publishing.

The YouTube-ification of politics: Candidates losing control

http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/07/18/youtube.effect/index.html


In a world where technology is so accessable, political hopefuls have to be careful about what they say, or do, or else their actions might reach the desks of millions of people. Just the slightest comment can reach the internet, and severely damage the chances someone may have in elections.
Former Senator George Allan (R., Virginia) ruined his chances of reelection when he made controversial remarks. His comments were video recorded by his opponent's aide and put on Youtube.
Senator John McCain, a presidential hopeful, sang his rendition of the Beach Boy's hit "Barbara Ann," ("Bomb Iran") and millions of eyes have seen what appears to be his opinion on the war in Iraq.



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Politicians have to be especially wary of what they say, or do, while in the puiblic eye. If they do not want to hinder their chance at becoming Senator, Governor, or President, they have to make sure to do their best in order not to offend anybody. Although it is nearly impossible to make everybody happy, it is easy to keep things to yourself, such as John McCain's "Bomb Iran" song.

Democratic Presidential candidate John Edwards is taking a different platform than the other Democratic candidates. Edwards has been vocal about his new poverty platform. Though poverty was once a strong issue argued by Democratic presidents like Kennedy and Johnson, in the last few years the poverty numbers have not changed much and not attracted as much attention. Edwards has said, "Past anti-poverty efforts have failed to create enough opportunities for people to work their way out of poverty and into the middle class." His platform his vocal in providing support for America's 37 million citizens living in poverty. The media is skeptical of Edwards' platform, saying that the Democrats don't have any strong solutions to this issue. They don't believe that stressing this issue will gain him the public support he needs.

http://www.columbusdispatch.com/dispatch/content/local_news/stories/2007/07/17/jepoor.ART_ART_07-17-07_A1_HF7A3CS.html?print=yes

I'm inclined to agree with the media on this one. Though poverty is a heart-felt issue, in current times it doesn't seem successful in gaining public support. I think this is mainly due to the fact that no candidate has really been successful in presenting the pubic with a solution to the problem that seems like it will work. Also, considering the poverty levels have not been rising, the issue is not at the forefront of voters' minds.

Mrs. Edwards Serves Critique of Mrs. Clinton

In an interview with Salon.com, Mrs. Edwards, husband of former Senator John Edwards, criticized Hillary Rodham Clinton for not being as vocal an advocate for woment's issues as she wished she were.

"And sometimes you feel you have to behave as a man and not talk about women's issues," Mrs. Edwards said. But she added that Mrs. Clinton was "just not as vocal a women's advocate as I want to see," while her husband is.

In previous discussions, Mrs. Clinton had discussed some cost-saving measures on health care, but Mrs. Edwards also criticized that Mrs. Clinton is "not really talking about poverty," which often affects single mothers.

The Clinton campaign had no comment.

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/18/us/politics/18edwards.html?n=Top%2fReference%2fTimes%20Topics%2fPeople%2fC%2fClinton%2c%20Hillary%20Rodham

I don't understand Mrs. Edwards comment about the women's right issue. Hillary has been devoted for children's and women's causes for most of her adult life. I feel that Mrs. Edwards is just desperate and worried that her husband may not win. Sometimes, people are willing to do anything to win.

Enticing The Latinos

In the upcoming 2008 elections the candidates are greatly seeking votes from the Latino population. Currently Latinos occupy 12% of the United States population. They reside in the largest states as well, such as California, Texas, Florida, and New York. Many of the democratic candidates are focusing on the immigration issues that the polls show are the most common amongst Hispanics. This group of citizens are a great asset to those that are compaigining. Their expenditure in communities is very influential in gaining votes. Because of the immigration issues more and more Latinos are voting. If the candidates want to succeed in these upcoming elections they should definitely spend more effort on Latino communities.

Article

OBAMA

Mr. Austin says: Do not post the entire texy of an article - this is not the assignment and you are violating copyright laws.

No Republican Canidate Front-runner?

In the recent poll done by the Associated Press, it found that almost a quarter of Republicans are not willing to back presidential nominations of Rudy Giulani, Fred Thompson, John McCain, or Mitt Romney. So far no canidate has emerged as the front runner as the Republican Presidential Canidate. In contrary, the Democrats race for their Presidential Canidate has two lead front runners, Hilary Clinton and Basack Obama. In addition to having major front runners for their canidate, the democrats have also outraised the republican party by $30 million.
Giuliani has been steadliy been losing popularity due do increased scrutiny from the media. Thompson is running evenly with Guiliani and is an ever incresing threat to the rest of the nominees. While all this is going on Arizona State Senator McCain and Mass. Govener Romney are the lowest in the polls.
This shows the elcetoral process before the primaries when the namiees are being made and how difficult it is to find someone to endorse a canidate or at least find a following in their own party. Sure 15% may be a lot of people but it still isn't up to par with other canidates.

Gilmore Pulls Out of Presidential Race

On saturday, July 14, 2007, Virginia Governor, Jim Gilmore dropped out of the 2008 Presidential Race. On Gilmore's website, he proclaimed: "It has become apparent to me that the combination of my late start, and the front-loaded nature of the primary schedule, have made it impractical to continue to pursue this path towards further public service. I believe that it takes years of preparation to put in place both the political and financial infrastructure to contest what now amounts to a one-day national primary in February." Because of Gilmore's withdrawal from this election chase, the number of Republicans in the field, has decreased down to 9 candidates.

I think that there really is no opinion to draw from this article just because it only informs the people of a candidate dropping out of the race. However, as Gilmore stated on his website, I do believe that in order to run in a Presidential Race, or any type of election whatsoever, you must have the knowledge of what you must do and fulfill in order to display yourself as a candidate, ready and willing to work. It does take years of preparation to prepare both politically and financially, and without that preparation, one might come across as irresolute and unqualified for the job.

McCain loses three more staffers

Senator John McCain loses three more of his staff. The are his communications specialists and are leaving this week. The latest departures came as new fundraising figures revealed the depth of McCain's challenge just to keep campaigning. The federal election commission shows that McCain currently has 3.2 million dollars cash but is 1.8 million dollars in debt.


In my opinion I do not think that his aides should have left him until campaigning was over. I don't really know why they left but they mustt have had a good reason, and maybe John McCain will be better off without them.