The Gustav Convention

Live Poll

The RNC, in response to Hurricane Gustav, should:

Cancel the convention
13%
Postpone the convention
22%
Drastically minimize the convention
4%
Turn the convention into a charity drive
22%
Go ahead without noticeable alterations
39%

Total Votes: 23

Democrats have won another propaganda battle: they have determined the events of the Republican National Convention.

In 2005, the third strongest hurricane to hit the United States slammed into the Gulf region and created a political tsunami. In all practical analysis, the state and local governments in Louisiana dropped the ball and the federal government fumbled. President Bush was accused of mismanaging photo ops by not flying over the affected regions and wringing his hands in a fast enough manner, allowing his political opponents to create a specious complaint that fits in with the perception that the government can control the weather simply by will. In all reality, the president has never recovered nationally from these attacks (although he polls about 20% higher in Louisiana over the national average) and this week demonstrates further that his legacy will be marred by the notion that by his mere presence alone, the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina would have been manageable if not avoidable.

While Hurricane Gustav's timing would reasonably take convention speakers like LA Governor Bobby Jindal and TX Governor Rick Perry away from the event, it seems rather pointless for President Bush to feign action by gluing himself to a television full time rather than take an hour out of observing the storm to give the last major address of his presidency.

There had been talk of postponing the convention which would seem to me to be an impossibility as thousands have already begun their descent into Saint Paul and hundreds of millions have been spent on an event that is supposed to assist the political direction of this country for possibly the next decade. That aside, the event is being scaled back, at least for the first day - which I think is a mistake. Bush's opponents have so damaged his presidency over perceptions that he could actually do something at the height of a storm (in the face of state authority on the issue) that the president himself will not be attending the last RNC of his era.

The convention should go on. It should be exciting and passionate and with a few exceptions, must maintain it's schedule. What the convention planners should do, rather than meaningless gestures of having the president skip the event, is to turn the convention into a rally for the victims and affected regions of Gustav. That's not just about lending rhetoric and acknowledgment of the storm but doing something real that the American public will feel. This is the time for Republicans and conservatives to show that disaster relief is about more than just government.

Move Over Jerry Lewis

Speeches should include calls for Americans to step up with money and volunteerism - in a sense, turn it into a telethon and take the issue away from Democrats. A 1-800 number and a website should be on viewers televisions and in the background images, asking people to contribute. Politicians and wealthy convention-goers should be asked to match contributions. Challenges should be made to Democrats to do their part as well. Jindal and Perry should be beamed in to give speeches from their home states outlining the destruction and the safety and recovery efforts. The RNC can maintain it's spirit and objectives and even strengthen them (as well as conservative principles) by promoting charity - and do so without changing the convention to appease the propaganda in an effort to marginalize the complaints of their opponents.

My Destiny

I viewed both conventions of 2004 from my living room. I was impressed and energized by each conventions but particularly by the RNC, which featured historical speeches by Governor Schwarzenneger and Democrat Zell Miller, as well as powerful speeches by John McCain, Rudy Giuliani, Ed Koch and even actor Ron Silver. I noted the deafening roar of the crowd and a sense of unity and determination that is not often on display by the more subdued of the two political parties. And I wondered how I could ever attend something like this.

Even though I had just voted for my first Republican in 2002, the 2004 RNC helped secure my political changes by seeing the energy and the positives that are often attributed to Democrats. I felt more upbeat passion and a personal feeling of inclusion coming from the RNC than from the DNC and it wasn't the first time.

Some years back, when I was in the political wilderness, I had a part time delivery job in downtown Saint Paul. I made several deliveries to government buildings including the Minnesota House building. In this building, Democrats and Republicans each had a floor to themselves. My first delivery was to the Democrats.

The floor was quiet and subdued. Signs were posted everywhere concerning cell phones and other annoyances and people were speaking in hurried, hushed tones. There was nary a person in the lobby and my drop off was quick and impersonal. I felt like someone who didn't belong.

A couple of weeks later I had a drop off to the Republican floor. Here I get off the elevator to find an office that is of hustle and bustle, lively interactions and more smiles, hellos and how-are-you's than I could have expected. People made what seemed like sincere small talk with me and my contact there (a state legislator) had a friendly conversation with me. Just as a lowly delivery boy, I felt like I was part of the crowd.

I repeated these deliveries a few more times in the following weeks and paid special attention to the atmospheres. It was the same for each visit to each floor. On one floor I felt like a foreigner and on the other I felt like part of the gang.

I mention this because some time later, I had these similar observations of the 2004 conventions and these helped transform my embracing of the Republican Party.

I am beyond excited to be attending the RNC tomorrow and am disappointed that the event is being compromised by the false sense of security that President Bush feels he must impose on Americans, all at the behest of his political rivals. The show must go on and it can go on in a way that is effective, compassionate and beneficial to Americans who are going to need our help in the coming days.

15 Votes
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The OttO Show's Column, All of Newsvine
Groups: 2008: John McCain, Newsvine Election Coverage, Republican National Convention, rightwingers,
Regions: Minneapolis/Saint Paul

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7.7

{"commentId":2673534,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

So it is.

This is a chance for Republicans to be on top of a controversial issue that Democrats had taken from them in 2005 - even though it was Democrats who were mostly responsible for the shortcomings during Katrina.

{"commentId":2673534,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

5 votes

#1 - Sun Aug 31, 2008 7:53 PM EDT

{"commentId":2675425,"authorDomain":"JoulesBeef"}

JoulesBeef

LOL.. sorry otto but when the Buck_stops_here_unitary executive screws up.. it is his fault
you cant have both.. I am the god of american and nothing is my fault.

and I'm sure the people in the stadium loved how the dems made mrs bush make that callous comment about how well off they were in the astro dome... WE all know all ventriliquists are liberals.. just like every other profession, public forum, news, or show.

{"commentId":2675425,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"JoulesBeef"}

2 votes

#1.1 - Sun Aug 31, 2008 10:59 PM EDT

{"commentId":2676964,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

I find it hard to believe that you ever voted for a Democrat.

though it is probably equally unbelievable that I voted for Bush in 2000 and even supported him through midway in 2003.

{"commentId":2676964,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

4 votes

#1.2 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 1:54 AM EDT

{"commentId":2679784,"authorDomain":"a0ted"}

The hysteria of Mary Landrieu was noticed. The Mayor was on personal business and the Governor froze.

Looking forward to your report, Mr. Otto. I watched the magnificent Hollywood show and I rather that the Governor Palin saves money.

{"commentId":2679784,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"a0ted"}

5 votes

#1.3 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 12:25 PM EDT

{"commentId":2675215,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

The OttO ShowDeleted

{"commentId":2675398,"authorDomain":"wharrison55"}

Bill Harrison

Otto, let's wait and see what happens tomorrow morning when Gustav makes landfall and plan from there.

On a side note, I hope you and Adam will be able to file some good reports on the convention itself because I'm defnitely not interested in a re-run of the Denver stuff on all the asshat clowns protesting.

{"commentId":2675398,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"wharrison55"}

6 votes

#3 - Sun Aug 31, 2008 10:57 PM EDT

{"commentId":2675452,"authorDomain":"JoulesBeef"}

JoulesBeef

yeah god knows we cant have people exercising their rights in this post 9-11 world. And during an election who'd thunk it.

I guess the good out of this(for the rnc).. is that now the rnc has an excuse on why their convention will be so empty and dont have to worry they cant fill a small building.
I was really worried for them.. empty seats don't make for a good acceptance speech.

{"commentId":2675452,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"JoulesBeef"}

3 votes

#3.1 - Sun Aug 31, 2008 11:03 PM EDT

{"commentId":2679806,"authorDomain":"a0ted"}

Well having a neck to neck race I am sure that we can fill few seats and bring a basketball team for entertainment.

{"commentId":2679806,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"a0ted"}

1 vote

#3.2 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 12:27 PM EDT

{"commentId":2675413,"authorDomain":"JoulesBeef"}

JoulesBeef

maybe they should ask the focus on the family guys to pray for the huricane to go away.

{"commentId":2675413,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"JoulesBeef"}

3 votes

#4 - Sun Aug 31, 2008 10:58 PM EDT

{"commentId":2676979,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

it is obvious God is not on the Republican's side. They pray to rain out Obama, but he has a beuitiful day at mile high, and now God sends Gustav to the gulf coast on the first day of the RNC.

{"commentId":2676979,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

3 votes

#4.1 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 1:56 AM EDT

{"commentId":2679845,"authorDomain":"a0ted"}

and now God sends Gustav to the gulf coast on the first day of the RNC.

There is always a silver lining.

I am watching the raise of a new Governor star, Jindal and how he is performing in stressing crisis vs Governor Blanco.

{"commentId":2679845,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"a0ted"}

4 votes

#4.2 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 12:31 PM EDT

{"commentId":2679995,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

Jindal is great!

Does anyone think for a second that the Democrats would have canceled or scaled back their convention had Gustav hit last week instead? Maybe - maybe - they would have abandoned the stadium spectacle and kept it inside the Pepsi Center, but I doubt it. They would have found a way to tie their self-righteous themes to the hurricane (much like BMS did on this board) and insisted that the rally must go on in the face of tragedy as some sort of message that they can still persist in the face of danger.

{"commentId":2679995,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

7 votes

#4.3 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 12:42 PM EDT

{"commentId":2680202,"authorDomain":"desrat7"}

Randy-470928

Thats a big AMEN!

{"commentId":2680202,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"desrat7"}

3 votes

#4.4 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 12:57 PM EDT

{"commentId":2684113,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

Again, I find it hilarious that you call allowing access to normal people to be witness to an historic speech as a "spectacle".

Whats wrong? Jealous that no one gets as excited about your dried up old man?

And please, stop with the demonetization of the Democrats. Making an assumption like that is stupid.

Deal with the bad luck in the best way possible rather than sowing your sour grapes.

{"commentId":2684113,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

2 votes

#4.5 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 5:25 PM EDT

{"commentId":2686307,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

BMS - I hate to break it to you, but the speech was intended to be a spectacle (why that bothers you I'm not sure) to gain national attention and boost the impression that he is loved and adored, not because of some desire to give Joe Six Pack access to a speech.

I'm not jealous, more power to him.

And please, stop with the demonetization of the Democrats. Making an assumption like that is stupid.

Nice retort. Now I'm convinced more than ever that Democrats would never do anything tasteless and self serving. Thanks for the guidance, man...

{"commentId":2686307,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

6 votes

#4.6 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 8:39 PM EDT

{"commentId":2686911,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

I know it was meant to show off the support and enthusiasm people have for him. It is the connotation and out right comments made by Conservatives that have called it arrogant that I am arguing against.

{"commentId":2686911,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

3 votes

#4.7 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 9:28 PM EDT

{"commentId":2690040,"authorDomain":"lasong"}

Pittsburgh2

Joules,

Maybe they should have the Focus on Family guy pray for Gustav to go away....

I was just thinking about that today. lol I think that plan worked in reverse.
CNN had Obama on tonight talking about Gustav and help, etc., but Cooper said, McCain was contacted for his comments, but he denied.

Why??

{"commentId":2690040,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"lasong"}

#4.8 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 1:39 AM EDT

{"commentId":2675998,"authorDomain":"backroadsbubba"}

Definitely, the arrogant opulence of Denver must not be repeated.

{"commentId":2675998,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"backroadsbubba"}

4 votes

#5 - Sun Aug 31, 2008 11:56 PM EDT

{"commentId":2676985,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

Arrogant how? allowing people access to an historic acceptance speech is arrogant?

{"commentId":2676985,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

3 votes

#5.1 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 1:57 AM EDT

{"commentId":2678915,"authorDomain":"backroadsbubba"}

Now be honest. That was quite a party. What did you think about Pelosi's 100 gala?

Were all the music glitterati really necessary when things are just so terrible?

{"commentId":2678915,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"backroadsbubba"}

4 votes

#5.2 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 10:32 AM EDT

{"commentId":2679465,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

You are being ridiculous. They are exuding hope. You want them to be all sad sack and negative but they want to communicate to the audience that the future is bright because the Democrats are coming to take back the US government.

That is not arrogance.

{"commentId":2679465,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

#5.3 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 11:46 AM EDT

{"commentId":2679857,"authorDomain":"a0ted"}

back,

Only Madonna was missing from the elaborate high tech production.

{"commentId":2679857,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"a0ted"}

5 votes

#5.4 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 12:31 PM EDT

{"commentId":2679912,"authorDomain":"a0ted"}

Furthermore,

Now be honest. That was quite a party. What did you think about Pelosi's 100 gala? Were all the music glitterati really necessary when things are just so terrible?

The price of the food is raising and the children can't eat properly. Excellent pictures of the food served for the 100 selected contributors, the Tiger Shrimps are between $15-25 dollars a pound and of course w/discount.

{"commentId":2679912,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"a0ted"}

5 votes

#5.5 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 12:36 PM EDT

{"commentId":2679935,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

You are being ridiculous. They are exuding hope.

Right...because before Obama came along, the idea of rallying and using 'hope' as part of a campaign was a strange and foreign concept.

When haven't the Democrats "had" the US government? 2002 to 2006? Or are Reid and Pelosi secret Republicans?

{"commentId":2679935,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

3 votes

#5.6 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 12:38 PM EDT

{"commentId":2684138,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

To claim that a one vote majority (because a Republican Senator changed his party allegiance after he was reelected) in the Senate in 2001 - 2002 is "having the US government" is a disingenuous statement.

{"commentId":2684138,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

2 votes

#5.7 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 5:27 PM EDT

{"commentId":2686520,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

So it's not disingenuous to suggest that a Democrat majority is really Republican control? One party had the majority, the other didn't - yet Obama supporters are going to 'take back the country'. It sure sounds pretty.

Don't put down a one vote majority -it is all the difference in the world.

{"commentId":2686520,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

4 votes

#5.8 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 8:56 PM EDT

{"commentId":2686940,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

One party had control of ONE HOUSE OF CONGRESS, and it was only a leadership majority. in the senate, yo have any real power you need at least 55 seats, otherwise it is too easy for the other party to filibuster and control the conversation.

A weak majority in the senate is a meaningless one.

Ignoring the House and the White house on your part is out right crazy.

{"commentId":2686940,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

3 votes

#5.9 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 9:30 PM EDT

{"commentId":2688311,"authorDomain":"backroadsbubba"}

Behind, Denver at best exuded unctuousness. I expected Uriah Heep to speak.

At least we didn't have to see Jimmah Carter holding hands with Michael Moore.

{"commentId":2688311,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"backroadsbubba"}

2 votes

#5.10 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 11:11 PM EDT

{"commentId":2689742,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

Nothing to criticize so you pick up the garbage coming from the radio Mic.

{"commentId":2689742,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

3 votes

#5.11 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 1:10 AM EDT

{"commentId":2706242,"authorDomain":"backroadsbubba"}

What is the radio Mic?

Denver was a disgrace of deception and lavishness, and you know it.

{"commentId":2706242,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"backroadsbubba"}

1 vote

#5.12 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 8:22 PM EDT

{"commentId":2707757,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

no, it wasn't

{"commentId":2707757,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

2 votes

#5.13 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 9:51 PM EDT

{"commentId":2707953,"authorDomain":"backroadsbubba"}

So you've no problem with "Pelosi's 100?" Say no more.

{"commentId":2707953,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"backroadsbubba"}

#5.14 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 10:01 PM EDT

{"commentId":2718049,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

If parties did not want to project large numbers of supporters, then why is the RNC not flaunting its lack of people at its convention? The Fox pool camera is making pains to not show the lack of audience in order to project a full house of enthusiastic Republican Party nuts.

I guarantee you that if the Republicans could pull the same crowd that Obama can pull, they would be flaunting it like there is no tomorrow and you would be spinning it away, trying to make up some fake difference between Mccain's huge crowd and Obama's.

{"commentId":2718049,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

1 vote

#5.15 - Wed Sep 3, 2008 11:40 AM EDT

{"commentId":2718305,"authorDomain":"a0ted"}

Well, McCain is not our favorite piece of cake. However, his pick for V.P. is awsome.
Who cares about filling a stadium? Security will be more expensive, more work for the police, etc.

What's important is that we go to vote and make sure that the chad is properly punched.

{"commentId":2718305,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"a0ted"}

2 votes

#5.16 - Wed Sep 3, 2008 11:51 AM EDT

{"commentId":2723250,"authorDomain":"thevineofhob"}

Adam Hobson

The Fox pool camera is making pains to not show the lack of audience in order to project a full house of enthusiastic Republican Party nuts.

That's because everyone else is over at Ron Paul's Rally for the Republic, which just happens to be in a bigger venue than the RNC ;-)

{"commentId":2723250,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"thevineofhob"}

#5.17 - Wed Sep 3, 2008 2:30 PM EDT

{"commentId":2723643,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

That is awesome!!

I wish the Republicans were not so stupid. I think Ron Paul would have come across well as their candidate. His problem is that he plays fair and does not lie like traditional Republican candidates do.

{"commentId":2723643,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

#5.18 - Wed Sep 3, 2008 2:36 PM EDT

{"commentId":2962718,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

A weak majority in the senate is a meaningless one.

Sorry about the late reply but I missed this in all of the hustle:

A weak majority in the senate is a meaningless one.

A majority, even of just one vote, may not break a filibuster, but even more important than that, it allows the majority party to set the leadership, to chair the committees, to influence Senate rules, to set the agenda.

Again, it makes all of the difference in the world, which is why I believe people made a big deal out of Jim Jeffords jumping ship and caucusing with the other side.

{"commentId":2962718,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

1 vote

#5.19 - Tue Sep 16, 2008 10:28 PM EDT

{"commentId":2676173,"authorDomain":"thevineofhob"}

Adam Hobson

What I find interesting is that while the RNC are cutting things back because it's just inappropriate to hold what amounts to a giant party while a large are undergoes a disaster, none of the protest groups plan on holding back anything.

{"commentId":2676173,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"thevineofhob"}

7 votes

#6 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 12:15 AM EDT

{"commentId":2688012,"authorDomain":"a0ted"}

Destroying and leaving behind debris irks me because the workers now have to clean up. Watch the pulling of file cabinets and also shattered glass. Now the insurance companies will increase the rate for the temper tantrum of the discontents.

{"commentId":2688012,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"a0ted"}

5 votes

#6.1 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 10:51 PM EDT

{"commentId":2676356,"authorDomain":"lele"}

Leah M

Democrats have won another propaganda battle: they have determined the events of the Republican National Convention.

Can you explain how this is the Democrats fault? Does Al Gore control the weather now?

{"commentId":2676356,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"lele"}

3 votes

#7 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 12:38 AM EDT

{"commentId":2677149,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

"Fault" for what? I'm pretty sure I haven't tied Democrats to the hurricane.

There is actually an article just beneath this opening line. Try reading it.

{"commentId":2677149,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

5 votes

#7.1 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 2:24 AM EDT

{"commentId":2677168,"authorDomain":"lele"}

Leah M

Oh I read it, my mind just couldn't get past the fact that the opening line didn't make any sense.

{"commentId":2677168,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"lele"}

2 votes

#7.2 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 2:27 AM EDT

{"commentId":2678583,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

Apparently, since you interpreted the opening line as blaming a hurricane on a political party.

{"commentId":2678583,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

5 votes

#7.3 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 9:41 AM EDT

{"commentId":2677623,"authorDomain":"dasunbum"}

DaSunbum

Like all the rhetoric by McCain today ? "Lets all support the people, lets all give. god bless" in case you didn't hear it, he repeated it a few times.
11/03/05- HURRICANE HEALTH CARE FOR SURVIVORS AMENDMENT- vote by McCain -NAY(NO) vote by OBama YEA(YES) GOP CONTROLLED DIDN'T PASS
That was after KATRINA.

{"commentId":2677623,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"dasunbum"}

1 vote

#8 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 4:29 AM EDT

{"commentId":2678590,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

And this has what to do with the convention and my proposal?

Half of the point of what I'm proposing is to show that Americans can help people without relying on McCain and Obama and other Senators to force us to do it. This is part of what the GOP stands for and they should use this event to re-ignite that principle.

I'm certain folks like you would support it, right?

{"commentId":2678590,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

6 votes

#8.1 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 9:43 AM EDT

{"commentId":2680017,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

So why does Bush poll so much higher in the state that he allegedly sought to destroy?

{"commentId":2680017,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

6 votes

#9 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 12:44 PM EDT

{"commentId":2680276,"authorDomain":"desrat7"}

Randy-470928

Most of the people left in New Orleans are the rich people that still have homes on higher ground. Of course they would be for Bush. The rich are buying all the land for little or nothing because the common people have been pushed out.

{"commentId":2680276,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"desrat7"}

1 vote

#9.1 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 1:02 PM EDT

{"commentId":2686223,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

Wow - Louisiana (New Orleans isn't a state) is one of the rich states? Did you read this somewhere or did you create this on the spot?

{"commentId":2686223,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

6 votes

#9.2 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 8:33 PM EDT

{"commentId":2684518,"authorDomain":"opperator88"}

sam-464553

STEWART SHEPPARD VIDEO PRODUCER AND INTERNET COMMENTATOR AND EMPLOYEE OF JAMES DOBSON MINISTRY "FOCUS ON THE FAMILY" ASKED PEOPLE AUGUST 11, 2008 TO PRAY FOR RAIN AUGUST 28, 2008. AND THEN SAID, HE MEANT IT AS A JOKE AND HE SHOULDN'T BE TAKEN SERIOUS.

WELL, TRUST US STEWART WE DIDN'T...THE GOD YOU WERE ASKING PEOPLE TO PRAY FOR RAIN CAN'T BE THE SAME GOD I KNOW...THE FATHER OF JESUS CHRIST! THE GOD OF HEAVEN AND EARTH. THE GOD WHO PROMISES GRACE FOR ALL WHO BELIEVE'S IN HIM. THE GOD THAT SAY'S MAN HAS A WICKED TONGUE.

SO STEWART AS GOD SAY'S TO PRAY FOR OUR ENEMIES. SO I DO PRAY FOR YOU BROTHREN!

{"commentId":2684518,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"opperator88"}

1 vote

#10 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 5:58 PM EDT

{"commentId":2686234,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

Caps off or your posts will be deleted.

Thanks.

{"commentId":2686234,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

4 votes

#10.1 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 8:34 PM EDT

{"commentId":2684611,"authorDomain":"dasunbum"}

DaSunbum

Your Opinionated Seed contains the topics of Hurricanes, Politicians, Convention, Donations and Personal Trivia. Having already giving a factual statement on politicians (which you don't think pertinent to your seed?) I will know comment on your other topics.

Hurricanes: I am very glad that Gustov is not as serious as predicted. (I live in Florida. We live on the edge all season too)You can now go on with your convention without too much more interruption. I think by Bush and Cheney not going to the convention, your party will be better off. It is their choice. Anyway, Cheney is in Russia. Planning to start another war? Hope not. He may know something about diplomacy.

Donations: As I am in the low end of the $5,000,000.00 a year upper middle class earning limit, I will wait and see how many people above me will donate + as our present administration refuses to help Hurricane Survivors(I know you think we still should, and not depend on our gov.) and most of my tax money is going to their war, high gas and food prices etc. there isn't much left to donate from us low end guys

Personal Trivia: NO comment.

{"commentId":2684611,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"dasunbum"}

1 vote

#11 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 6:07 PM EDT

{"commentId":2686458,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

This isn't a Seed, this is an article.

Yes, your comment above addressed nothing in my article nor explained why McCain opposed the legislation.

I'm curious about this though - Bush cut taxes across the board. Regardless of where the tax money is going, you are most likely paying less in income taxes today than you were eight years ago. What difference does it make where the taxes go to as far as whether or not you can afford to throw some money toward hurricane victims? Shouldn't it be what you are getting taxed, not what that money is spent on that affects your pocketbook? Tax and spend are too different things.

Don't get me wrong, I understand that the standard rhetoric in response to anything is to complain about spending on the war, even if it's senseless. Yet, here you are complaining that McCain didn't support a massive spending bill while simultaneously complaining that you don't have enough expendable income. Here you are trucking out the silly 5 million dollar garbage (that McCain predicted people like you would) and I wonder - is this supposed to be taken seriously?

There are lots of people who can't afford much if anything to donate and that includes donating to big government. At least charity is optional.

{"commentId":2686458,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

4 votes

#11.1 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 8:50 PM EDT

{"commentId":2684776,"authorDomain":"opperator88"}

sam-464553

STEWART SHEPPARD (R) WAS ASKING FOR PEOPLE TO PRAY FOR RAIN IN DENVER DURING DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION. JAMES DOBSOB (R) DIDN'T MAKE ANY COMMENT ABOUT STEWART'S SILLY REQUEST! BUT IT ONLY GOES TO SHOW..DON'T ASKED CAUSE YOU JUST MIGHT RECEIVE.

PRAYING FOR ALL MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND AMERICAN BOTHERS AND SISTERS WHO WILL BE HIT BY HURRICANE GUSTAV!

{"commentId":2684776,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"opperator88"}

#12 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 6:22 PM EDT

{"commentId":2684990,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

I think your caps lock is on.

{"commentId":2684990,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

4 votes

#12.1 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 6:44 PM EDT

{"commentId":2686614,"authorDomain":"jahrahn"}

jahrahnDeleted

{"commentId":2687951,"authorDomain":"kaloni106"}

Rodney E. Rhodan

The republicans wasted no time attempting to gain political points on the misfortune of the people
of Louisiana mobilization from hurricane"Gustav", at the start of the republican national convention.
The shameless governor's of Mississippi/ Florida/ Alabama, waste no time with the political promotion
of there party at the expense of a natural disaster. This republican party had 3 years to replace not repair the problems of the levee's, but only patched one part of the levee. Send tens of billions of dollars overseas, for the safety and security of the Iraqi country and citizen, but there negligence of
the Louisiana coast, and the Louisiana people overwhelms the average Americans. The party leaders attempted to get in the front of the story, by suggesting that the handling of the hurricane was second to none, if this was not the luck of the draw I don't have a definition for the result's of this hurricane.
Republicans, haven't upheld there responsibility to the Louisiana people, they haven't done what needs
to be done, a total re engineering/ redesign/ retested/ restructure and replace all of the levee's in Louisiana to come up to speed,with the twenty first century needs. Because the climate changes every
year, re patching this problem will not do. Rodney E. Rhodan.

{"commentId":2687951,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"kaloni106"}

2 votes

#14 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 10:46 PM EDT

{"commentId":2688111,"authorDomain":"a0ted"}

Rod,

You cover so many corners that I wonder how much you know.

The politics of the Dems in LA is very well known. GWB gave everything to the Governor Blanco but she did not know how to use the resources.

Any complain about Jindal is managing Gustav.

Do you think that replacing the levees is like changing a tire in your car?

{"commentId":2688111,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"a0ted"}

3 votes

#14.1 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 10:57 PM EDT

{"commentId":2689761,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

giving everything is when FEMA kept food and water and medical attention out of N.O. for a week?

{"commentId":2689761,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

1 vote

#14.2 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 1:12 AM EDT

{"commentId":2700637,"authorDomain":"a0ted"}

You forgot that there were shootings,

Well, maybe the inefficiency of Blanco vs Palin is what I am weighing now.

Bush had to push Blanco, she was scared.

{"commentId":2700637,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"a0ted"}

2 votes

#14.3 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 3:31 PM EDT

{"commentId":2688493,"authorDomain":"dasunbum"}

DaSunbum

I surly can't explain McCain's reasoning. I can give you mine, you wouldn't like it ,anyway mine is immaterial. All I can do is check his voting record. They all flip flop in their rhetoric. Are you going to give them reasons for every time they change their views, except to get new votes and hope people forget what they said last month?
VOTING RECORDS are the only facts that help me wade through all the bull $hit. Past performance is more important in picking a leader than picking a horse race. ALSO, I hope your healthy and not getting close to the medicare time of life. I'm not going to put out his voting record on health care because you might ask me for his reasoning. But it is extensively negative in my view. You dig it up. Or is your pick written in stone already?

{"commentId":2688493,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"dasunbum"}

1 vote

#15 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 11:25 PM EDT

{"commentId":2688854,"authorDomain":"rufamily"}

rookie@65

Please...get off Katrina...Bush couldn't come to the aid of the state until the Governor asks, it's the law...
When is it the presidents fault someone bought a home they couldn't afford, on ridiculous interest only and adjustable rate mortgages....then default on the loan??????
When is it the fault of the president when 401K, Ira, investors drive up the price of oil which drives up the cost of EVERYTHING.
Why is it ok for Mr. Obama to "gather millions via e-mail" to aid the "victims" of Gustav yet the Republicans are bashed for backing off their convention and asking for help for the "victims".
Why was Bush blamed for dikes breaking when the federal government has been giving Louisiana billions over the years for Louisiana to maintain their own dikes.
lets stick to facts

{"commentId":2688854,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"rufamily"}

1 vote

#16 - Mon Sep 1, 2008 11:52 PM EDT

{"commentId":2689771,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

The gov. asked the day Katrina hit. Bush waited a week.

{"commentId":2689771,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

4 votes

#16.1 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 1:13 AM EDT

{"commentId":2690176,"authorDomain":"lasong"}

Pittsburgh2

Behind My Screen,

The government asked [for help] the day Katrina hit. Bush waited a week.

People need to be reminded of that fact. How soon they forget..........

{"commentId":2690176,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"lasong"}

3 votes

#16.2 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 1:53 AM EDT

{"commentId":2700953,"authorDomain":"a0ted"}

Nah, Blanco was given Federal help 4 days before. Why Blanco wasn't following the Weather Channel and Landrieu making sure that the levees were built at the quality of Holland?

{"commentId":2700953,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"a0ted"}

2 votes

#16.3 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 3:44 PM EDT

{"commentId":2689240,"authorDomain":"pamela-dezutter"}

PLD-470991

Why is that Republicans blame Democrats for everything. The Dems had nothing, and will have nothing, to do with the failure of your convention. Why not blame the real culprits: Sarah Palin and John McCain. She is at fault because of lack of full disclosure and McCain for not vetting her. It is an embarrassment.

I feel sorry for you people. You laud Obama when he is decent enough to let you off the hook and you ostracize him with lies so you can put over the increasingly bad candidates you select for national office.
And this year, you even blame Hurricane Gustav after praying for rain. Be careful what you pay for.

Shame on you!

{"commentId":2689240,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"pamela-dezutter"}

2 votes

#17 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 12:28 AM EDT

{"commentId":2700974,"authorDomain":"a0ted"}

Sarah is giving the Dems a remarkable allergy reaction.

It's all about Sarah now.

{"commentId":2700974,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"a0ted"}

2 votes

#17.1 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 3:45 PM EDT

{"commentId":2690208,"authorDomain":"lasong"}

Pittsburgh2

PLD, Agree. In fact, tonight as I posted earlier, Anderson Cooper asked Obama how he answers criticism that he [Obama] does not have the experience to deal with an event as this [Gustav]. and Palin does as she has some executive experience. He smiled, and replied, and said that Palin had about 50 employees, Obama and his campaign have over 150 and $ to help with aid, etc. Excellent response, and as always, a gentleman. Now lets think about this. Remember BehindMy Screen's post. I would have to say that the Repubs. need to work on their "compassion" skills. But like a lot of things in life, some things just can't be learned. They must be FELT.

{"commentId":2690208,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"lasong"}

1 vote

#18 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 1:58 AM EDT

{"commentId":2718343,"authorDomain":"a0ted"}

Pit,

Gov Palin made the executive decision to stay in the race so far.

With all the noises about her another woman would step out. The more attacks the more votes.

{"commentId":2718343,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"a0ted"}

2 votes

#18.1 - Wed Sep 3, 2008 11:53 AM EDT

{"commentId":2701025,"authorDomain":"a0ted"}

that Palin had about 50 employees

And .....how many National Guards the Governor Palin commands?

{"commentId":2701025,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"a0ted"}

1 vote

#19 - Tue Sep 2, 2008 3:48 PM EDT

{"commentId":2723719,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

those are not her employees. They are soldiers.

{"commentId":2723719,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}

2 votes

#19.1 - Wed Sep 3, 2008 2:37 PM EDT

{"commentId":2962811,"authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

And she's their commander-in-chief...

{"commentId":2962811,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"theottoshow"}

1 vote

#19.2 - Tue Sep 16, 2008 10:34 PM EDT

{"commentId":2735078,"authorDomain":"juno"}

Juno Hera

Wow, after reading down this far I had to go back to the article to get my bearings. Lots of voices here.

I think scaling back was the right thing to do. Rallying to action is what we Americans are supposed to be about, the party has to wait.

Getting everyone's attention focused on the RNC wouldn't have happened anyway considering the coverage of Gustav.

I was very excited last night, and look forward to this evening as well. We can manage this in a shorter time.

(oh, yes, thanks for the info that shows the President's ratings in LA are pretty good, makes me smile)

{"commentId":2735078,"threadId":"345071","contentId":"1810303","authorDomain":"juno"}

2 votes

#20 - Wed Sep 3, 2008 6:25 PM EDT

{"commentId":2764181,"authorDomain":"behindmyscreen"}