Jay Bookman

By GMAN

September 1, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

Ooops! What will we do now?

Bush/McCain - Taking a huge gamble with the future of our children!

By AJC/DNC Management

September 1, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

I say this with all honesty, thank goodness that Obama’s 18 year old mother didn’t do the easy thing and murder him, like Jay is suggesting be done to other potential Barak Obama’s.

By AJC/DNC Management

September 1, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

I’m Obama Bin Biden and I approve AJC/DNC Management’s message!!!

Yes, thank goodness indeed.

Now get out there and kill some babies, you toadies.

By TW

September 1, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

Wise words, Jay - especially the part about which side made it political.

Perhaps if the rightwing did not define its morality by the extension of its judgmental finger they would not now reap what they’ve sown?

Put the shoe on the other foot and tell me Rush and Hannity would leave it alone.

Can’t.

That aside, the bigger issue has to be McSame’s judgement - first Palin and now the silly umbrella politics. Presidential? Nope…

By @@

September 1, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this

Good for you Jay, but you’re too late in quelling the hate. Check out your previous threads. Check over at Wooten’s.

The DailyKooks, The HuffPuffers, and you can bet the MoveOn.org crowd, have jumped on this with reckless abandon. These organizations are behind which candidate? These organizations helped which candidate to receive the Democratic nomination?

OBlahMa can say what best serves him, but he can’t deny HIS family support.

This excerpt from your column?

The Roe v. Wade decision was based on the right to privacy, the concept that this is an area in which government interference is not appropriate and indeed unconstitutional.

There are those among the voting tax base who see abortion as taking a life. Should their money be used to fund that which they don’t condone?

I’m thinking not. It’s a violation of individual conscience.

By Davo

September 1, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

The real issue is this…McCain supposably vetted this gal? He knew of this situation and still choose her to be VP? Gee…not politically savvy, wouldn’t you think? I can’t believe anyone in any party would want this kind of distraction circling over their campaigns.

This goes to lack of good judgement on McCains part. If he couldn’t get this right after all the time it took him to decide on a running mate then he really has no business being potus.

By Bush go away

September 1, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

Talk about grasping for straws. And what’s the latest spin coming from the convention to show that Palin has foreign policy credentials? Alaska is the closest state to Russia! (That and she slept in a Holiday Inn Express last night)

Putin must be shaking in his boots.

By AJC/DNC Management

September 1, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

Hey Jay, if you are going to follow up on the monitoring promise when are you going to remove the bald faced lie about “Levi” being 26?

Will you also be complimenting this with the info that he is also a black rapper convicted of manslaughter?

Blowhard/ Gasbag 08.

Not.

By Bush go away

September 1, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this

The father is twenty six? And has been dating her for three years? If this is true, then this is no longer a “private matter”. This is a police and family children services matter to see if A) statutory rape occured and B) if Gov. Palin was a negligent parent, allowing a twenty something male to engage in sexual activity with her underage daughter.

By TW

September 1, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

How come them anti-choice people don’t have funerals for miscarriages?

And what about all those half babies that don’t ‘make it home’?

Face it, if being anti-choice meant an increase in taxes there’d be no argument at all. The thing about anti-choice is that it fits perfectly into the GOP morality budget - costs nothing but the extension of a judgemental finger…just like slamming gays, or harping on bootstraps.

Hate costs little to those without a soul.

By janet

September 1, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

I think the issue Ms Palin and her daughter have brought front and center are their right to make a choice. Ms. Palin, upon finding out that her fifth child would be disabled, CHOSE to continue the pregnancy. Her daughter, unwed and pregnant, has made the same CHOICE. For me the importance of their CHOICES is that every woman in this country should have the same right to make a CHOICE. Just because someone’s choice in their private life doesn’t meet the religious right’s approval doesn’t mean that CHOICE should be eliminated. If you give government the right to say NO CHOICE, then some day the government could say YOU WILL NOT HAVE THAT CHILD. That could become your NONCHOICE. So be careful what you wish for. And as I have noticed most PRO CHOICE advocates are really just PRO BIRTH. Once the baby arrives you are on your own…no health care, no childcare, no way for a young woman to return to school and still keep the child. Oh yes, they are forgiven and not perfect, but they are also persona non grata. Now Bristol seems to have it all going for her and she still got pregnant. What about the young woman who has nothing going for her and gets pregnant?

By AJC/DNC Management

September 1, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

Both 6:48’s are perfect lead ins to how Christopher Hitchens describes what it is to be a dimwit:

Every four years, we suddenly discover that the only people worth noticing or mentioning in the United States are those who are ill, or unemployed, or uninsured, or underpaid, or homeless, or some combination of the above. Bill and Hillary Clinton went on about these unprotected and wretched millions on two successive nights last week, apparently never reflecting that some of them at least must have been alive and suffering under the two Clinton administrations. How can a thinking person sit still and listen to such piffle, let alone get up and wave their arms about when they hear it again and again?

Blowhard/ Gasbag 08.

Not.

By AJC/DNC Management

September 1, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

Third, perhaps the observations here and of longtime pundits like David Broder and William Safire were on the money: Obama’s speech was too angry and negative and it contained too much big government liberalism. He already had people who think everyone is “getting knocked” down and the only solution is to tax the rich and expand the reach of government. Liberals liked him before and they liked him after the speech — you can tell because their spokespeople in the form of the national media told us so. But the people who will swing the election five points one way or the other remained unmoved, it seems, or were least as equally moved by Sarah Palin’s speech last Friday in Dayton.

Blowhard/ Gasbag 08.

Not.

By Ray

September 1, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

How many of those who post these comments about Palin’s daughter have daughters themselves? How close do you think that some of them have come to the same situation? If you think not, you are living in a fantasy world. How judgemental must we be about someone else’s children when the children are not running for office? Obama made a good statement today when he stated that children of the candidates were off the table. First thing that I have agreed with but true. Come off this crap about something that is not relevant to the candidate. Look past her daughter’s mistakes and look at the lady. She is a much better potential leader than all of the rest of them, the fossil included. Quit being p** off about the fact that she is an Evangelical Christian who just happens to be running for VP. She is a damned good choice and just needs the opportunity to show it.

By TW

September 1, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

It sure is nice to see those who condemned Bill Clinton for his violation of ‘role model’ duties now staying consistent with Gov. Palin…

Oh, what will our children think?!

How old is this Levi, really?

By marko

September 1, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

Maybe John should do a little homework before he selects a vice president. He did’nt care much for studing when he was at the naval academy; evidently he still does’nt. Thousands of lives could be spared and billions saved, if only these guy’s would do a little homework. The American people deserve better.

By AJC/DNC Management

September 1, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

Again, we see that Sarah’Cuda is walking the talk:

Feminists for Life has spearheaded efforts to make sure pregnant and parenting college students, who have the highest abortion rates in the nation, get tangible help like medical referrals, child-care and assistance in completing their education.

Palin, a mother of five, recognized the need to do more than say she opposes abortion and joined the organization.

In August 2006, she told the Anchorage Daily News, she recognized the struggle young women face in an unplanned pregnancy saying, “no woman should have to choose between her career, education and her child.”

For Palin, there is no inconsistency between advocating for women and taking a pro-life position.

“I believe in the strength and the power of women, and the potential of every human life,” she said.

She said that, for Palin to join her group, she must recognize the practical ways it is helping women find life-affirming solutions to unexpected pregnancies.

“We recognize that abortion is a reflection that our society has failed to meet the needs of women and that too often women have settled for less. Women deserve better than abortion,” said Foster.

She is not just a Blowhard/ Gasbag.

By JAY BOOKMAN

September 1, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

So Management, what does “black rapper” have to do with the issue …. exactly? Please explain.

No, on second thought, don’t.

By Dusty

September 1, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

Well, this turn of events has shown me two obvious things:

first: There are some very considerate liberals out there. Obama set the right atmosphere for family concerns and privacy. He showed compassion and family values and it was a good thing to hear.

Bookman, likewise, seems to have no pleasure in the ruthless over run of a seventeen year old girl. He threw in a bit of the “liberal” but he was fair and demands it on this blog, his own set of “family values”.

The Second observation: There are liberals out there who should be shot. OK, that is just an expression. But their obvious joy at something they could throw in the face of Republicans, even though it was a seventeen year old girl, is a fairly hideous display.

That they should refrain seems never to enter their minds. The ugly liberals stand out like sequin covered garbage cans. They are a disgrace to their party.

These same people hated the Iraq War but now they declare war on a seventeen year old and her family. Yep, they disgrace themselves with great pleasure. Let us hope they do not out number those liberals with family values.

By Mike

September 1, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

Nice to see Bookman teeing up a softball for his liberal brown shirts.

Can someone explain to me why this is relevant? I mean other than to take the opportunity for hateful partisan attacks?

By AJC/DNC Management

September 1, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

Jay: The kook website that is publishing the “26 year old” “information” is also saying he is a black rapper who is convicted of manslaughter.

I thought it awful convenient that we did want to make one lie an issue but not the other.

What are you trying to insinuate?

Are unsubstantiated rumors and uncalled for insinuations the meat and potatoes of this blog?

By marko

September 1, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this

Jay, unless this is a chat line, why are idiots allowed to make so many comments apropos of nothing.

By AJC/DNC Management

September 1, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

Mike: Rest easy, the Obama campaign is the one’s who are going to get tagged with it.

He can’t distance himself from his voters.

By JAY BOOKMAN

September 1, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

Sorry, Management, I was not aware that is part of the rumor. My apologies.

But you know, if I started removing posts featuring unsubstantiated allegations from unknown sources, well, certain people would fall silent.

By AJC/DNC Management

September 1, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

Yeah, but Jay, who would miss Midori?

By Bush go away

September 1, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this

Mike,

It’s relevant because it shows the hypocrisy of the neocons. And that’s relevant because their “values” affect sound policy with real life health consequences.

For example, the neocons love to cite statistics that abstinence education “works” but won’t address the fact that those who take abstinence pledges are four times more likely to engage in anal sex, often without protection.

When you teach abstinence but in your hypocrisy you refuse to address real life consequences of your approach, your hypocrisy is fair game.

By Ray

September 1, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this

Bottom line, it is no one else’s business and if you want to throw this lady under the bus for her daughter’s mistakes, be my guest. But in doing so, we will make a grave mistake. We will quash the political career of a very good potential leader who just might be able to make a difference in our troubled world. We will also say to our America that someone who makes a mistake cannot run for office although we have nothing but flawed previous presidents and vice presidents. We will search far and wide for anything to discredit anyone who runs for political office, depending on who you vote for. We have already done that, we do it each election. We are all flawed, we select from the same pool of people every time and expect that all of them are going to be squeaky clean. Boy are we ever fooled. it never happens. Gary Hart, John Edwards, Richard Nixon, Bill Clinton, Dwight Eisenhower, FDR, Sprio Agnew, LBJ, JFK, MLK, the list goes on. Pick your own flawed politician. But this lady has done nothing wrong. She has tried to be a good mother, a good wife and a good gov. along with being some kind of her own person. I would pick her over any of the other people running, despite her inexperience. She has grit, integrity and and a sense of what is right. Where have we found that in the last little while.

By Davo

September 1, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

So anyone know the age of the father? And don’t tell me that this is a ‘family matter’. If he’s 23 then this speaks to the kind of ‘values’ the Palin’s hold to; and as a possible potus the people should know what those values are. After all…thats what we hear from the g old P all the time; family values, family values, family values, ad nauseum.

By @@

September 1, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this

janet:

If you give government the right to say NO CHOICE, then some day the government could say YOU WILL NOT HAVE THAT CHILD.

The only right I’m willing to give the government on this issue is the right to get out of the business of abortion period. No funding and no prosecution of responsible physicians willing to abort within the first trimester.

No federal funding for Planned Parenthood’s genocide of African American babies, or any babies for that matter. Let liberals put their money where there mouth is. If they want to support abortion, then support it with THEIR money. Let THEIR conscience be clear.

I’ll help support the programs that render returns on my investment. Something PRODUCTIVE.

By TW

September 1, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

@@ - why will you not prosecute the genocide that occurs in the first trimester?

By Midori

September 1, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

well, Andy, I think “you” would.

By Mike

September 1, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

Bush Go Away -

I know two girls who went to school with me in NJ and shared the same detailed sex education as me and were given the same access to free birth control who still managed to get pregnant.

Does this mean that those programs are failures? Does it mean that their parents are “hypocrites” if they supported such education?

Or is this another case where liberals have one standard for politicians who share their narrow views and another for politicians who don’t share their narrow views?

One last thing: are you proud of the gleeful hate coming from the liberals on this board? Don’t you think it pathetic that folks would revel in the mistakes of an 17 year old stranger?

By Midori

September 1, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

But you know, if I started removing posts featuring unsubstantiated allegations from unknown sources, well, certain people would fall silent.

we can only pray.

that would be the only way to shut Andy’s idiotic cut and paste trap.

By GOP's got to go

September 1, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

Mistakes happen. Unfortunately the chances of a marriage lasting under these circumstances are slim, but time will tell. I think Bristal has made a good decision for herself. Although I am pro-choice, I myself would never have an abortion. However I will defend other women’s choice to do so.

I do see the point of some previous posters that the age difference is rather large. I had no idea the father was indeed a man. I had just assumed he was a boy around Bristal’s age. Mr “Got to go” would have all but killed any man coming around our 14 year old daughter. My goodness, the fear he but into 14 year old boys was huge. I know that children will fight you at every turn when they are “in love”, but an adult male should have known better than this. I find it kind of creepy that a 26 yr old MAN wants to date a child, because that is what she is. I do not think any less of a child that ends up pregnant; I do think less of a man that would have sex with a minor though.

By AJC/DNC Management

September 1, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

I r o Dim: The Pamprin, remember?

By @@

September 1, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

TW:

@@ - why will you not prosecute the genocide that occurs in the first trimester?

We are stuck, for the time being, with Roe v Wade. If I had MY CHOICE, which obviously no one wants to give me, I’d have ZERO ABORTIONS.

The left is so eager to pursue alternative fuels, alternative this, alternative that, alternative lifestyles.

But offering alternatives to abortion, alternatives for the UNBORN just doesn’t seem to register high on their agenda.

Someone on these boards often closes his/her post with………

You libs make me sick.

Guess what? It’s contagious. I’m sick of you too.

By Midori

September 1, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

pANDsY: lay off the vodka, will you?

what do you know about Pamprin?

sharing a bit too much info there, aren’t you?

what do you use when you’re “feeling not quite fresh”?

Rum?

By TW

September 1, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

Does Alaska not have child predatory laws?

By TW

September 1, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

@@ - geez. I never talk disrectfully to you like that. I ask a simple question, simply ask for a little clarity in your position because I respect you enough to do so, and in return you say that I make you sick?

Nevermind, then.

By @@

September 1, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

TW:

Somehow I’m thinking you don’t really care whether there are child predatory laws or not. If you did you’d be complaining about liberal Vermont and their resistance to enact any. You’d be screaming about the judges there who give offenders a slap on the wrist, sending them out to repeat their predation on children.

By Billy

September 1, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

@@, we all already know the alternatives to abortion. They are:

1) Have a baby.

Sure, there are various things one can do with the baby once it is delivered, but still, your options are abortion or allowing a parasite to gestate in your body for around 9 months. And endure the whispers, snickers, and hurtful comments from people around you. Most of which are likely “Christians”.

By AJC/DNC Management

September 1, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

By Billy September 1, 2008 8:54 PM Sure, there are various things one can do with the baby once it is delivered, but still, your options are abortion or allowing a parasite to gestate in your body for around 9 months. And endure the whispers, snickers, and hurtful comments from people around you. Most of which are likely “Christians”.

You were a “parasite” at one time, dumbas-s.

By TW

September 1, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

@@ - and now you call me a liar?

Had you and your ilk not turned the Bible into a bludgeoning instrument over the past eight years, I might be bothered.

And had the likes of you and ‘w’ not been successful in replacing ‘conservative’ with ‘selfish’ on the GOP platform, I might be bothered.

But the simple truth, @@, is that you are completely bankrupt of this little thing they call credibility. And, as a result, what you say, or even think for that matter, really don’t amount to a hill of ant crap in the real word.

By @@

September 1, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

After this post, the subject of young Bristol is closed as far as I’m concerned. I’ll leave you leftists to look like the hateful, vindictive dregs on the Democratic Party that you are.

Billy:

You can’t be serious! Check out the posts from the leftists both here and at Wooten’s. It’ ain’t Christians that have been laughing, snickering, and posting hurtful comments.

TW:

@@ - geez. I never talk disrectfully to you like that.

I don’t recall that we’ve ever communicated here, so that’s up for debate.

You’re wanting to stir the s**. It’s obvious to anybody with eyes.

But the simple truth, @@, is that you are completely bankrupt of this little thing they call credibility.

Coming from you buddy, I couldn’t care less what you think of my credibility.

Now if you’re desperate for conversation this evening, you’ll have to look elsewhere. I’m not into small talk…. “chit” chat.

By bubbaroy

September 1, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

Jay, Why do you even bother to try and have reasonable discussions? Mostly I have read where “the liberal haters” are attacking the daughter - and I cannot see that. It seems some are blaming / condemning the mother - but being a victim seems to be the way most republicans handle most topics.

In the meantime, there are plenty of other issues and problems that are going to sink this ticket (“trooper-gate” / “I told them I didn’t want the “bridge to nowhere” [NOT] / “she fought against Sen Ted Stevens” [NOT]) - but the main one will be that she is totall in over her head, and that will become apparent over the next month.

Peace

By Hillbilly Deluxe

September 1, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

To TW @6:48PM

In the unfortunate times that it has happened in my family, a miscarried baby gets a name, a funeral and a grave. (I regulary clean the grave of an uncle who was born dead in the 1930s.)

I’m not an Obama supporter but I do commend him for his handling of this matter. A classy thing to do on his part.

Making this a political issue is wrong, just as making fun of Chelsea Clinton on Saturday Night Live was wrong. I admired Bill Clinton for his reaction to that.

It seems odd to me that people on both sides of the political spectrum spend a lot of time talking about tolerance. What they usually mean is “my position should be tolerated, yours is fair game”.

I guess my point is don’t take pleasure in others’ misfortunes. Someday you may find the shoe is on the other foot. There but for the Grace of God go I.

By ByteMe

September 1, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this

You’re right, Jay. Gov. Palin’s daughter and future grand-child are not any reason to want to vote for her or against her.

The fact that she’s an politically lightweight anti-science fascist is really all that matters once you get into the voting booth and think about pulling the lever for a 72-year-old 4-time cancer survivor.

But I’m sure the anti-science fascists will march along in lock-step the way they’ve been traoined to do.

Oh, and Levi is reported on one site out there (that includes a picture of him) to be 18 years old. Not 23. He looks 18 in the pic. Can’t vouch for the site, so I won’t bother linking to it, but it makes a more sense than him being 23.

By @@

September 1, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

Billy:

Before I turn in for the night, I’ll ask…….

What have you done for a teen mom today?

The CrossPointe group is small but growing. It’s one of only three Teen MOPS groups in the state. Last fall, Gommier helped launch the ministry at her church to “help (teens) be the best mom that they can be from here on out,” she said. But the group is not a Bible study or time for sermonizing. Many of the young moms don’t attend church services. The group instead offers a time for the girls to mingle and share. They can chat about whatever is on their minds. Sometimes they talk about abstinence.

Teens MoMs (Youth for Christ)

Lots more programs out there if you really wanna know the truth about Christians and how THEY support teen moms.

By GodHatesTrash

September 1, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

Happy Labor (get it?) Day, cons!

Hehehehehehehe Hohohohohohoho

By TW

September 1, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

Hillbilly Deluxe@10:06 - Well said. Very sorry for the times your family has dealt with miscarriage.

The world would no doubt be a better place if people like yourself spoke for the right.

Sadly, your voice was not there to put a leash on the wolf when Newt set him free, or when rushannity turned him into the devil he is today. Ironic that you now speak when the serve is finally returned.

The left was told we didn’t support the troops when we questioned their use. Told we weren’t good Americans because we advocated public schools and health care for all. Told we wanted to lose the war when we again showed concern for our brothers and sisters in uniform. Forgive us if we seem a little ornry.

No doubt the country is stronger when united, but I ask you - who mastered the art of dividing us? Who had the financial motivation and who has benefitted financially from these divisions?

I’ll check tomorrow. Goodnight.

By Davo

September 1, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

I don’t see any posts on this topic that are condemning the girl, Bristol. I see posts that question the mothers agenda…which to me seem to be a fair enough tact for someone in public office. What I don’t see is anyone expressing what I think is the real question…What was McCain thinking when he brought Palin on board…and what was she thinking in accepting the spot? It don’t matter what side of the abortion debate your on here…this was political dynamite from the get-go.

C’mon kids…stop pretending this is about the girl getting knocked up…it’s about how the adults are handling the situation. I’m still curious as to the original accusations about Trig being the girls son…what if this is true? Do you think that that topic is beyond reproach? I don’t.

This is all about McCains judgement…I just don’t see how anyone of any political leaning can say that this was good judgement. Either he didn’t know- which is bad…or he did…which is just naive and pathetic. I don’t understand why some of you follow party lines over common sense…and why your so hateful of people who you disagree with.

McCain threw the hail mary with this vp pick to the wrong side of the field. Time to punt…God only knows what crazy plan the G old P will come up with now….probably something to do with Iran and speedboats.

By GodHatesTrash

September 1, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this

The GOP is a dirt-spreading operation.

It runs on lies and rumors and character assassination. Governor Palin has chosen to associate herself with the low-life lying stupid scum of the GOP, some of whom who are all too regular posters here.

She has thrown her own child’s and grandchild’s future under the bus by concealing this pregnancy to advance her own political ambitions. Mothers are supposed to protect their minor children. Not this witch.

Governor Palin is a liar, and a pitiful pitiful mother. She makes Britney Spears’ mother look good. Reap the whirlwind of your party’s hypocrisy.

Poor Bristol.

By Midori

September 1, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

Sir Trash,

it gets even better:

Disclosures on Palin Raise Questions on Vetting Process (AIP) - NYTimes

ST. PAUL — A series of disclosures about Gov. Sarah Palin, Senator John McCain’s choice as running mate, called into question on Monday how thoroughly Mr. McCain had examined her background before putting her on the Republican presidential ticket…

…Among other less attention-grabbing news of the day: it was learned that Ms. Palin now has a private lawyer in a legislative ethics investigation in Alaska into whether she abused her power in dismissing the state’s public safety commissioner; that she was a member for two years in the 1990s of the Alaska Independence Party, which has at times sought a vote on whether the state should secede; and that Mr. Palin was arrested 22 years ago on a drunken-driving charge….

…At the least, Republicans close to the campaign said it was increasingly apparent that Ms. Palin had been selected as Mr. McCain’s running mate with more haste than McCain advisers initially described…

…“They didn’t seriously consider her until four or five days from the time she was picked, before she was asked, maybe the Thursday or Friday before,” said a Republican close to the campaign. “This was really kind of rushed at the end, because John didn’t get what he wanted. He wanted to do Joe or Ridge.”

Mr. McCain’s advisers said repeatedly on Monday that Ms. Palin was “thoroughly vetted,” a process that would have included a review of all financial and legal records as well as a criminal background check. A McCain aide said that the campaign was well aware of the ethics investigation and that it had looked into it.

“They didn’t speak to anyone in the Legislature, they didn’t speak to anyone in the business community,” said Lyda Green, the State Senate president, who lives in Wasilla, where Ms. Palin served as mayor.

“I started calling around and asking, and I have not been able to find one person that was called,” Ms. Phillips said. “I called 30 to 40 people, political leaders, business leaders, community leaders. Not one of them had heard. Alaska is a very small community, we know people all over, but I haven’t found anybody who was asked anything.”

By "The Corporal"

September 2, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

Hey Jay:

I just saw this headline …………..

“ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Protesters smashed windows, punctured car tires and threw bottles Monday during an anti-war march to the site of the Republican National Convention. Police used pepper spray in confrontations with demonstrators and arrested five.”

Question:

Did any Republican Demonstrators conduct themselves in the above manner at the Democrat Convention?

By Hillbilly Deluxe

September 2, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

To TW@10:33

I had you a reply all typed up and forgot to type in my name and email address so now I have to do it all again. Hopefully I can remember the gist of it all. It is late though.

I agree that it was Newt and company who raised the stakes. When they got power they were like a dog that chases a car and catches it, they didn’t know what to do with it. I listened to Rush a time or two several years ago and couldn’t see why anybody would listen to him. I view Rush, Hannity, O’Reilly, Matthews, Olbermann, etc as performers. They play to their respective audiences. I wonder sometimes if any of them really believe half what they say. I don’t question anybody’s patriotism as I don’t question anybody’s religion. I’m sure people on the Left love the US as much as I do. I do believe in public education though I think it needs reform in some areas. I don’t know what the answer to health care is but I don’t think anyone should go without health care in the richest country in the world. I’m definitely not from the “let em eat cake crowd”.

The art of dividing us goes way back in American history. We just never seem to learn it’s lesson.

I can understand how people get ornery on here sometimes given the thinks people say to them, especially if it’s aimed at you by name. Try to rise above the fray. A reasoned argument is a more persuasive argument which we would all do well to remember. A man I once knew told me to “be high class even when others are not” I’m sure you will often disagree with my views but that’s fine. If we agreed on everything there’d be no need for one of us, right? (A little levity)

By Billy

September 2, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this

@@ — Yes, you dolt, I was a parasite. I notice you in no way tried to argue against what I said.

And what I have or have not done for teen moms is not the issue, here. Forced childbirth is.

By Billy

September 2, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this

Actually, Davo is right — McCain’s judgment is the issue.

Hillbilly Deluxe — I do not mean to be crass or in any way disrespectful of you or your family, so I apologize if I come off that way, but I believe people tend to handle miscarriages different than stillbirths, which is what your uncle’s sounded like. I mean, a miscarriage 3 or 5 months into the pregnancy wouldn’t result in much of anything to bury. The family would often feel a sense of mourning and loss, but few would have a memorial service or count it as a lost family member. Most would keep the information to themselves for a while, unless the woman was showing. Many couples don’t tell anyone about a pregnancy until after the first trimester because miscarriages are less likely after that point.

I guess the point is that the time in pregnancy during which most abortions occur is the same time most miscarriages occur, and we don’t treat them like children that have died.

By RW-(the original)

September 2, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this

Teenagers get pregnant all the time. It’s a sad commentary on our country that the only reason this is a “news” story, presuming Jay hasn’t gone tabloid, is that Bristol is having the baby. Barack’s mother was roughly the same age and his parents weren’t married, yet you leftists treat him like the Second Coming.

Had she gone for an abortion we would have the one day scold of her being a hypocrite, even though that’s nonsensical since we don’t have a 17 year old on the ballot and she’s free to have her own beliefs, and then moved on to how killing the baby was the right thing to do. It’s for the children after all.

By Billy

September 2, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this

“Corprophile” —

“Democracy Now” host Amy Goodman was arrested…while trying to free two of her producers who had been arrested. That’s three arrests, all illegal. Are those included in your five?

As to why no Republicans were arrested in Denver — what do they have to protest over? The past 8 years have seen the GOP in control. The only way the Dems are responsible is in that they haven’t foght hard enough against the radical right that has taken over the government.

By GMAN

September 2, 2008 1:27 AM | Link to this

Bush/McCain - If brains were gas, they couldn’t fill a lawn mower!

By kjj

September 2, 2008 3:53 AM | Link to this

BOTTOMLINE:

IF YOU CLAIM YOU ARE FOR FAMILY “VALUES”, PEOPLE WILL HOLD YOU TO THAT STANDARD. WHERE WERE YOUR VALUES TEACHING YOUR KID NOT TO GET PREGNANT OUT OF WEDLOCK ???TALK IS CHEAP !!! BRISTOL IS NOT THE ISSUE. HER MOTHER IS.

REPUBLICANS ARE NOW RALLYING AROUND TO DEFEND THE MOTHER. THE SAME PEOPLE WILL BERATE HER IF SHE WERE A DEMOCRAT FORGETTING THERE’S SUCH THING AS A MISTAKE. REPUBLICANS ARE THE BIGGEST HYPOCRITES OF ALL.

AND WE HEAR SHE STILL UNDER INVESTIGATION TOO IN HER HOME STATE…SO MUCH FOR MORAL SUPERIORITY AND ‘VALUES’—WHATEVER THE HELL THEY MEAN!!!

kjj

By AJC/DNC Management

September 2, 2008 5:21 AM | Link to this

Jay- Now will you take the lie of your website:

He’s a superhunky bad-boy ice hockey player from cold country; she’s a chestnut-haired beauty and popular high school senior.

The all-American teen twosome will make GOP vice presidential pick and Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin a grandma at age 44 - just in time for Christmas.

Never doubt me.

By AJC/DNC Management

September 2, 2008 5:43 AM | Link to this

Off, geez.

~~~~~

You have to check this out, go to the Urinal litter box liner and look at page A4 and all the unbelievable immature whining and moaning the liberals at the AJC/DNC put together as “coverage” of the Republican Convention.

Where to begin?

A photo of the seats BEFORE the convention even started to make it appear like no one showed up and those who did were bored?

A less than flattering photo of McCain’s mother, who many of you will be surprised to learn she is still alive, toadies.

Now we hear about protesters from the Urinal?

I would copy some of the crying jag text but the Urinal hasn’t posted any of it to their print edition, even though all the other news is up.

Un- freaking- believable.

I may frame this.

~~~~~

So now we are going to make our candidate’s families an issue, eh?

Daughter’s pregnancy, probe in firing put Palin in spotlight-Urinal/DNC

Ten-four.

By The Way

September 2, 2008 5:56 AM | Link to this

A: Sarah Palin, Bristol Palin, John McCain

Q: Name two hockey moms and a puck

By GodHatesTrash

September 2, 2008 6:03 AM | Link to this

Thanks Midori for the link.

Dig around on the ‘net regarding the Alaska Independence Party - ties to the Sons of Confederate Veterans and the wite soopremacissy movement.

Daddy’s a drunk, mommy’s a self-absorbed crook. Whelped all these kids but then won’t mother them. No surprise there - mommy’s sister stay married to a state-trooper stupid enough to taser her kid, but gramps likes the guy though, used to go illegally hunt moose with him.

So John McCain is trying to bring this HeeHaw crowd to D.C. “Wee doggies!”, as Jed Clampett used to say. It’s like having an aging Daisy Duke running for Vice President.

Governor Lola is a joke. A bad sick joke. Of course they’ll love her in Georgia.

(Poor Bristol. She would have been better off raised by wolves.)

By Johnny Stanford

September 2, 2008 6:51 AM | Link to this

Just think, if another unwed mother had had an abortion, we wouldn’t have to be putting up with Barrack Obama. Liberal and “Dims” are the most hypocritical people the world has ever seen. I thought your battle cry was “choice” - a choice has been made. What are you bleating about?

By AJC/DNC Management

September 2, 2008 7:00 AM | Link to this

I thought this didn’t matter but now that has all changed:

In fact Ann divorced her husband after she discovered his bigamous double life. She remarried and moved to Indonesia with young Barack and her new husband, an oil company manager.

A relative of Mr Obama says: “We told him[Barack] how his father would still go to Kezia and it was during these visits that she became pregnant with two more children. He also had two children with Ruth.”

It is alleged that Ruth finally left him after he repeatedly flew into whisky-fuelled rages, beating her brutally.

Friends say drinking blighted his life - he lost both his legs while driving under the influence and also lost his job.

Like Father like son?

By GOPs got to go

September 2, 2008 7:35 AM | Link to this

Jay,

Please tell me the correct age of the father of Bristal’s baby. THAT is the main issue to me. If he indeed is 23-26 then he is guilty of statutory rape.

Can you tell I do not, nor ever will, read tabloid rags or go to tabloid sites.

By Mike

September 2, 2008 7:47 AM | Link to this

“By GOPs got to go

September 2, 2008 7:35 AM | Link to this

Jay,

Please tell me the correct age of the father of Bristal’s baby. THAT is the main issue to me. If he indeed is 23-26 then he is guilty of statutory rape.”

The kid is 19. The 26 year old thing is one of the many rumors put forward by hateful liberals who want to use this girl as a tool for partisan attack.

I thought liberals were in favor of reproductive privacy. Apparently, they are just in favor of abortions.

By Taxpayer

September 2, 2008 7:48 AM | Link to this

Wow, @@. All this time, I thought you did have a choice. Now, you say that you don’t but everyone else does but not if you have anything to say about it. Amazing!

“By @@ September 1, 2008 8:33 PM

We are stuck, for the time being, with Roe v Wade. If I had MY CHOICE, which obviously no one wants to give me, I’d have ZERO ABORTIONS.

The left is so eager to pursue alternative fuels, alternative this, alternative that, alternative lifestyles. But offering alternatives to abortion, alternatives for the UNBORN just doesn’t seem to register high on their agenda. Someone on these boards often closes his/her post with……… You libs make me sick. Guess what? It’s contagious. I’m sick of you too.”

By TW

September 2, 2008 7:54 AM | Link to this

Taxpayer - give @@ ‘The Convenient Christian’ a break. She had a real rough day yesterday…glass houses, etc….

By AJC/DNC Management

September 2, 2008 8:10 AM | Link to this

The DUI was 22 years ago.

22 years ago.

By janet

September 2, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this

Privacy is important and so is choice. The Palin women have made their choices because they could. That is why it is important that ALL women in this country should be able to make their own reproductive choices even if they don’t happen to be your preference. Maybe I don’t like their choices but they own them. Let all women own their choices.

By Mike

September 2, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this

I notice that the angry liberals in her keep bleating about “hypocrisy”.

Help a dumb conservative understand who is being a hypocrite and why.

By rc

September 2, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this

little off point, but remember when mccain was cracking jokes about chelsea’s looks?

By Eric1

September 2, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this

Suddenly pre-marital, teenage sex is okay with the right wing, family values crowd. That smells like hypocrisy to me, Mike. As a liberal, I don’t care what Bristol does with her bod. It’s none of my business. What gripes me about the suddenly “live and let live” republicans is how their values can shift with the breeze. It’s hypocritical.

By Charles

September 2, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

If I were a Democrap (God forbid) I’d be more concerned with having a racist (20 year membership in Jeremiah Wright’s church) Presidential candidate (Obama) who is friends with a unapologetic terrorist (William Ayers) and has less experience than Palin (sorry, running for the Office of President all your Senate life doesn’t count) and a plageristic (liar) running mate in Biden.

By @@

September 2, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this

Billy @ 12:48:

I didn’t call you a parasite.

And what I have or have not done for teen moms is not the issue, here.

You implied that teen mothers suffer the snickers, whispers, and hurtful comments of Christians. I just wanted to better inform you.

With the miracle of the internet, there can be no doubt that liberals launched the attack against young Bristol and others like her when it suits their politics. Christians on the other hand, were busy doing what needed to be done.

Christians fill the gap between talk and action.

Taxpayer @ 7:48:

Wow, @@. All this time, I thought you did have a choice.

Oh really!

Can I opt out of government funding? I think not. I am forced to fund something that violates my conscience.

I’m off to work.

By lovelyliz

September 2, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

A 16 year old girl having unprotected sex who turns into a preganant 17 year old mother who turns into an 18 year old wife soon turns into a 20 year old divorcee.

The hypocricy comes when in the year 2008 we push a couple of kids who were stupid enough to get pregnant into a marriage thayt accomplishes nothing but virtually guranteeing a bitter divorce.

These marriages just don’t last in modern ages. None of the ones I’ve been privvy to have lasted much past the infancy of the baby. Two teens who have some idea about sex, but none about effective birth control, who have no capability of financially supporting themselves let alone a family are going to raise a baby? What difference is it going to make to this child if it’s parents never married or divorced before it says it first word?

It’s a stable, long term marriage between two committed reasonable adults in which children should be raised, not a couple of kids temporarily playing house while their families foot the bill.

By Taxpayer

September 2, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

Those Republicans really know how to party, don’t they. I wonder how many of those Christian republicans were at that lobbyist party last night, I mean, this morning and last night. They’ll have many more opportunities if they missed that one. It lasted quite a while. The band was called “Hookers and Blow”. Anyway, the news report indicated that it was just the band that was using that name but those news reporters probably don’t report everything that goes on. At least that’s one thing that some other bloggers keep yammering on about — reporters not reporting everything — so it must be true. There were quite a few big wheels from the RNC and the Republican elected ones partying it up. I have heard that parties such as that one can actually lead to that type of behavior that is purported to make some women pregnant — especially those Christian women that did not learn about such things from their parents or at school and things to do to prevent such things, etc. I guess it’s because those Christian republicans don’t like to talk about the birds and the bees or sex other such stuff that makes them all red in the face and they also don’t like for anyone else to talk about such stuff either. Although, you would think that after having five youngens, you’d be able to put one and one together and make one of those little light bulbs light up. I wonder how many Christians out there think that babies just magically appear or that they have to eat some sort of forbidden fruit or other such superstitious dribble.

By kitty

September 2, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

I see two things here…

a mother so ambitious that she actually accepted the VP nomination and put her daughter’s pregnancy into the spotlight. Considering the cult of personality and intrusiveness the media shows now, how could a caring mother actually do that to her daughter unless her ambition is overwhelming. She makes Hillary Clinton look like a rank amateur in the ambition department.

Notice I haven’t even mentioned her lack of foreign policy experience or any other experience on a national level. McCain is a maverick all right…a stupid one.

By "The Corporal"

September 2, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

Hey Jay - From a website:

“How many stories did we hear during the DNC about violent protests on the streets? With the RNC barely under way we already have an entire delegation of Connecticut Republicans who were attacked by protestors. Then we get these anarchists who are throwing around benches and smashing windows of police cars.”

By Hypocritebuster

September 2, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

Don’t we just love the ‘go kill some babies’ crowd, Jay? I doubt they’ll ever learn to stop being so judgemental and bitter. I just love the ‘let’s have some privacy’ argument. This from the crowd that that put morality on a soapbox. But there’s a lesson to be learned here. Maybe, just maybe, the Palin affair will spark some decent, realistic thinking among these folks about the problem of teen pregnancy and what to do about it. Hiding heads in the sand by promoting abstinence and blocking sex ed, contraceptive availability, etc won’t cut it. Kids will be kids; hormones will be hormones. We live in the real world, not some imaginary fairyland of ideology, a mindset that’s gotten us into more trouble in the last 7 years than we can just about handle.

By Richard

September 2, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

One can only imagine how different and cruel the Republican response would be if Chelsea Clinton had become pregnant [even at her present age] without being married. There would be no calls for privacy and respect because those hypocrites have no morality, Christian or otherwise. Instead they would be demanding the impeachment of Senator Clinton, a full investigation costing taxpayers millions, various wearing apparel with strange stains waved in front of television cameras, and, of course, a chorus of pseudo-Christians demanding a trial by water or a public “auto de fe”. You get the picture, hypocrisy run rampant but then that is what the American public has had to deal with since 1994.

By GMAN

September 2, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

Bush/McCain - Gambling with our children’s future!

By Andy J

September 2, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

Jay —

Very tortured logic on the “privacy” issue. Modern science clearly shows us that a human being is a human being whether in or outside the womb —look at a sonogram of an 12-week old fetus sometime. There is no privacy defense for the crime of killing another person. Why is it that “compassionate” liberals whose hearts bleed for the poor, minorities, etc apparently don’t have the same concern for unborn children in America? Can’t you see how wrong you are about this?

By Bosch

September 2, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

I had the same thought this weekend -

Good for this girl - glad she has unconditional love and support from her family - many do not.

Other few thoughts over the weekend:

NOW all the GOPers are concerned with the Gulf Coast and New Orleans. Good for them. Where’s their compassion for those losing homes, and those losing their health insurance, etc. etc.?

This Gustav thing was a little on the Catch-22 side - at least we won’t have to hear Bush/Cheney speak - which is good for all Americans.

My main concern about Palin is that I heard over the weekend, that she hasn’t travelled very much in her life - which brings me to my question from Friday - has she ever BEEN to Washington, D.C.?

If you count countries you’ve visited abroad, then I have more foreign policy experience than Palin.

I actually heard a GOP cheerleader on the news touting that she is the MOST qualified VEEP candidate. The MOST qualified - I, and the other pundits with completely shocked and stunned looks on their faces, just shook their heads, and one actually said, “Really? More qualified than Mitt Romney and Tom Ridge?” And hell, Sonny Perdue for that matter! And the guy actually said yes. Unbelieveable.

By Taxpayer

September 2, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

@@,

I want to opt out of government funding of wars — you know, that thing that Republicans are so fond of — and all the killing of innocent people. The ones they refer to as “collateral damage” and as “brave US troops”. Now, doesn’t that just make it all better — giving it such a non-descript label. So, how ‘bout it, @@. Let’s find some folks to put in government that don’t believe in killing any innocent people. I hear the claims about the baby not having any say and so the baby must be given first priority even over the life of the mother but I don’t hear the Christian Republicans trying to avoid wars and stopping our politicians from causing the killing of innocent bystanders. Will you offer up some lame excuse about how we were just defending ourselves and those innocent people should not have been standing in the way of our bombs and bullets that were clearly meant to only kill those trying to kill us or do you leave that activity for the likes of a Dusty or some other equally pathetic individual. Our government was willing to support the likes of Saddam (remember that Rumsfeld handshake straight from Reagan) when they thought he would be useful in a fight against the USSR. Our government was willing to support the likes of bin Laden as long as he was useful in a fight against the USSR. Our government knew what type of people they were and they still had no problem with supporting them. Now, they turn around and talk about how evil they are and how they must be stopped because they have now directed their hate toward us instead of the USSR.

By hillbilly ragger

September 2, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

“And what’s the latest spin coming from the convention to show that Palin has foreign policy credentials? Alaska is the closest state to Russia!”

No, no, no.

Palin’s foreign policy cred comes from wanting to make Alaska a foreign country.

By bh

September 2, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

The sad fact is a quick review of some of these blogs shows that there are liberal and conservative sickos out there. This is a young girl who is facing incredible exposure because her mother is part of a presaidential campaign. There is no way to avoid that issue but surely we can be civil on this matter and not attack candidates’ kids as both sides have in the past (Clinton’s daughter and the Bush daughters). The real issue of the Palin selection is the fact that it very strongly appears that there was not a comprehensive vetting process. That explains some of the scrambling comments about foreign policy experience as head of the National Guard of Alaska (a role every governor has over their state guard) and her state being close to Russia as if proximity leads to foreign policy experience. If other items erupt about Mrs. Palin, it will reinforce the image of McCain as impulsive, shoot from the hip. If not, then the focus will shift, as it should if no real problems emerge, to her performance on the high wire national stage. The fact is that this type of selection is either going to be a home run or a strikout and none of us know which one yet.

By Bosch

September 2, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

Oh, and the GOP strategist had better lock down the Facebook/MySpace pages of these Palin kids and ALL their friends.

By hillbilly ragger

September 2, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

“look at a sonogram of an 12-week old fetus sometime.”

I see Dr. Bill “Remote Diagnosis” Frist is in da house!

By Dusty

September 2, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Amazing!! This election has shown that some of the LOUDEST liberals are still full of hate. They are in Minneapolis attacking delegates. They are here making every ugly remark possible about a young pregnant woman. They make jokes about the faith of religious people, because a young one failed her teachings. They lie about the age of the young father, about an investigation into a state trooper which has been going on for something like three years. They scream that one DUI ticket twenty years ago makes a drunk. Liberals are covering themselves with muck while trying to throw mud.

Hypocrisy?? Christians, young and old, try to lead a life that reaches certain standards of best behavior. But above all, the example of love as given and preached by Christ is the saving elixir.

Christians are well aware that they as humans cannot be perfect. They still teach and reach for the inspiration to live a better life. Sometimes the weakness is stronger than the intent.There is no hypocrisy in teaching a better way of life, even if it is not followed sometimes.

I am sad for Americans today. Some are showing only too well the side known as the “ugly Anmerican” and that side seems to be predominately predatorial liberals.

By BDAtlanta

September 2, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this

I’ll keep my mouth shut about Palin. I think having her on McCain’s ticket is a plus for our only choice - Obama/Biden. So let’s not rock the boat too early or he will dump her and get someone on the ticket who could actually help his doomed campaign.

Regarding Richard September 2, 2008 9:17 AM

You are spot on with your observation.

By Winston Smith

September 2, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this

Palin is a calculated gamble, but not for the reasons the media thinks. Whether intentionally or unintentionally, McCain has put the issue of life front and center in this campaign with a person who literally embodies the conservative position. Obama cannot win that debate—he is on record opposing common sense measures to protect the unborn and the recently born, otherwise known as “the least of us.” Life is an issue that does not resonate with the most extreme Hillary supporters, but does have traction with conservative and independent women. A strong, compelling speech from Palin Wednesday quickly turns this issue into a compelling one for Americans.

By AJC/DNC Management

September 2, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this

In one way, the more strained relationship may be an asset for McCain by broadening his appeal to conservative Republicans who believe the media has a liberal bias.

“There are a lot of people who don’t like the press anymore and think they’re out of control; attacking the messenger isn’t a terrible political strategy,” said Darrell West, a scholar at the Brookings Institution in Washington who has written several books on the mass media.

Natter on Obama loving media.

Unite and strengthen the Republican base in ways that you cannot even imagine.

We defend our own.

And we know how to win.

By norman ravitch

September 2, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

This should surprise no one in the Old South. Southern churchgoers commit sexual sins more than people elsewhere — all because they need to rebel against the domination of the evangelical churches and their parents who threaten them will hell. Sarah Palin’s daughter has rebelled by having illicit sex. Good for her.

By jd

September 2, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

Many of us, even one or two in GA, see our tax money being shoveled into the ‘war’ effort, to dismantle our government, to make cronies VERY wealthy - yet we’ve had no voice in the matter for a long time. We are expected to bow down whenever the phony wingnuts whine about spending on sex education. You never see them lining up to fund unwanted children. They are simply anti-abortion - not pro-child, like they can just ignore the unwanted results.

Choosing Palin as a VP says volumes about McCain’s competency. Choosing a woman was brilliant strategy except for two things - it insults ALL women, and insults the dozens of women he could have chosen who would be more than mere tokens. For this, he wears the banner of McShame! Such a surprise from a man who has the ultimate trophy wife.

By Dusty

September 2, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this

Bosch 9:29

Gov. Palin has even been to Iraq. Just last summer.

From what liberal source do you get all your misinformation?

By Arch Stanton

September 2, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

LUKE 5:32 I came not to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.

Addendum: Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.

By Tiger

September 2, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

This is a disgrace to American all eyes are on us. Who ever agree with this child having a baby our value as a family has gone down the drain. Other countires are watching us closely in this race, no wonder other countires don’t care for Americans. This Governor Palin has put her goals before her family. A child with special needs need there parents. Why would vote for a VP that put’s her goal before her family? Think about people and if she became President, that would be a sad day.

By Commonsense

September 2, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

Murder is not a private matter!

By Peter

September 2, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

In a post 9/11 environment, Homeland Security should be paramount. How could the Palins allow this invasion to happen?

(That abstinence defense system doesn’t appear to be effective.)

By Bosch

September 2, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

Dusty,

[Sarah Palin’s abrupt appearance on the national stage sparked an enormous array of questions, one of which is: Has she ever traveled abroad?

I asked her new spokeswoman, Maria Comella, who noted that Palin visited Germany and Kuwait in 2007 to visit Alaska National Guard troops.

Comella said she’d also visited one other country: Ireland.](http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/0808/Palins_travels.html)

By Dusty

September 2, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Norman Ravitch, 9:51

I doubt that you have been in many churches anywhere. You are just a contemptuous complainer about morals. You know more about hell than is ever preached in churches.

As to your statement that Palin’s daughter “rebelled” against her mother, rediculous! The daughter was having such a good time, she forgot what her mother had taught her.

By hillbilly ragger

September 2, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

Winston @ 9.47, if this is to be about abortion, your side loses in a landslide.

Americans do not support overturning Roe. They do not support criminalizing abortion. They sure as hell do not support conferring citizenship to an egg at “the moment of conception,” as does Flip-Flop McCain.

Pretending to be “pro-life” has always been, and will always be, a sucker play that the Republican ruling class uses to keep you toadies in line, and to keep your women down and in a world of crap.

But by all means, keep on screaming “BABY KILLER”. It’s good to know who the loons are.

LuckoTrool @ 9.47, you “know how to win?” How’d that work for you in 2006? Back when Miserable Failure’s approval was still slightly above 30% in most polling? I still remember Karl Rove’s “math” assuring the faithful that he just knew the polling was wrong, and that Republicans would prevail.

By Bosch

September 2, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

hillbilly ragger,

“citizenship to an egg”

That will keep me going all day. Thanks for that.

By CommunistAJC

September 2, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

Jay Bookman, What I find funny is that all the liberal media is so up in arms over this yet they said NOTHING when B***** Clinton was cheating on Hillary. He was commander in chief and Palin is a VP nominee. Big difference. Also, I find it hilarious that people like Chris Matthews, Matt Liar, and James Carville are calling her inexperienced. Ummm, last time I checked Obama Husseing has ZERO experience. I’ve asked people over and over to name Obamas accomplishments as a senator. SO far its, well, umm, well, he’s black and he’s a community organizer. Sarah Palin is a governor of the largest state in the union. She fought GOP corruption and won. That alone is a bigger than anything Obama Hussein has ever accomplished. Oh, and by the way, Mccain destroys Obama Hussein on accomplishments. Quit drinking the Obama kool aid Jay. He’ll just let you down like every other liberal candidate. And I mean people like Jimma Carta.

By Bosch

September 2, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

Ugh!

Sarah Palin’s abrupt appearance on the national stage sparked an enormous array of questions, one of which is: Has she ever traveled abroad? I asked her new spokeswoman, Maria Comella, who noted that Palin visited Germany and Kuwait in 2007 to visit Alaska National Guard troops. Comella said she’d also visited one other country: Ireland

By wdr

September 2, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

Ray at 7:01 - You are so hypocritical in your post when you say “First thing that I have agreed with but true.”, speaking of Senator Obama, and under the same breath, you say, “She is a damned good choice and just needs the opportunity to show it.” What is it? A white woman needs to be given the opportunity, although you know nothing of her, except what you saw and heard on the news. Senator Obama has been campaigning for well over 18 months; he’s gone above and beyond introducing himself to the American people, providing biography after biography, defining his political platform, and how he plans on moving this country forward, with Senator Biden’s support. Now, Govenor Palin, as all would acknowledge, is relatively new to global politics. My point here - “she has very little experience”. You use this very concept against Senator Obama, but in the same breath, you say give her a chance. The only conclusion I get from your post is that you object giving “Senator Obama a chance” because of his race! It’s people like you that continue to hinder this country from moving forward with your backward a&& thinking.

Sorry Jay, I really didn’t want to bring race into this conversation, but Ray’s subliminal message got under my skin. He knows nothing of this woman, but is quit to say give her a chance. He knows everything about Senator Obama, but he get’s no chance. Nothing but a racial statement.

By Mort

September 2, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

Great comment by Schmidt, the spokesman. Here it is: “It’s a private family matter. Life happens in families,” Schmidt said. “If people try to politicize this, the American people will be appalled by it. The fact is that the American people, who are decent people, don’t appreciate intrusions into the private space of good families.”

I just wonder how that statement would be accepted by the “right to lifers” if the family, or mother’s decision had been to get an abortion? I’m sure the right wing would be happy not to intrude in their lives. Yeah!

By Bosch

September 2, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

Oh and Dusty,

The last time I checked, Kuwait and Iraq are not the same country.

By AJC/DNC Management

September 2, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

By hillbilly ragger September 2, 2008 10:12 AM LuckoTrool @ 9.47, you “know how to win?” How’d that work for you in 2006? Back when Miserable Failure’s approval was still slightly above 30% in most polling? I still remember Karl Rove’s “math” assuring the faithful that he just knew the polling was wrong, and that Republicans would prevail.

You liberals had every right to harp on Mark Foley and it worked, the Conservative base was completely unmotivated.

Now you are harping on a woman who just so happens to be facing some of the same life challenges that many Americans face every day, and she is making the hard decisions and providing inspiration to those who face the very same decisions, affirming life instead of convenience.

She is a real American, not some fake pumped up teleprompter reader.

Go ahead on and enjoy yourselves, maggots, I am comforted in the knowledge that there are many, many women in America that are disgusted by your glee.

Buh bye dimwits.

By CommunistAJC

September 2, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

wdr, I love people like you. Why? Because it shows the complete idiocy of the democrat party. When you can’t win on ideas, or in your case lack of ideas, you bring in race. Obama Hussien is nothing but an empty suit who’s given a bunch of speeches by other people. He can not think on his feet. Also, choosing Joe Biden is awesome because it kills his Change mantra. Joe Biden is as far away from Change I can believe in as you can get. By the way, the democrat party has always been the party of racial hatred. Just ask current democrat Robert Byrd aka KKK grand wizard and Jesse Jackson aka I hate Jews and Whitey. Go sell stupid somewhere else.

By Dusty

September 2, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Well, bosch,10:10

I guess you now know that Gov. Palin has “traveled” beyond Alaska. But you are correct in that she has only visited the THEATER of the Iraq Conflict, precisely Kuwait. That’s like saying she visted the suburbs but did not get downtown.

What’d ya know?? If she hasn’t visited Washington she will very soon and for quite a while. Aren’t you pleased that a strong, talented woman will soon be in the governing halls of America assisting a strong, talented man?

By hillbilly ragger

September 2, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

Bosch @ 10.07, it should keep you, and us, and all rational people going. These lunatic “pro-lifers” really do think that a fertilized egg is a person; they’d ban all contraceptives if they could, and in the meantime, go all out to support incremental measures to (for example) allow pharmacists to deny birth control pills on account of their delicate consciencies.

Me, I think that — politically — adopting such raw extremism it’s the equivalent of shoveling sewage against a tide with a pitchfork, but it does keep the LuckoTrools of this world busy while their ruling class continues to screw them out of their future earnings.

By Bosch

September 2, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

Andy,

Most people facing those tough life decisions chose to do it at home, in private.

By Dusty

September 2, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

bosch 10:26

You are learning, fellow. Keep it up.

Saddam tried to make Kuwait part of Iraq but he got slapped down. Yep, Kuwait is still Kuwait.

By h ryder

September 2, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

The statement that many offer is bogus, as any adult with the intellectual level above that of a rock should be cable of understanding. Ones decisions and actions are a result of ALL experiences in ones entire life!

By ron

September 2, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Good morning Jay,I like your warning in the cause for civility.

This pregnant girl is none of my business.The sun came up this morning,just as it always does.

The choosing of Sarah Palin was a brilliant political move.A better script cold not be written.

The announcement of the daughter’s pregnancy would have been postponed but for the rumors on the internet that Mrs.Palin’s baby actually belonged to the daughter.Squash rumors fast is the corrct way.Telling the truth is refreshing.It’s hard to deal with the truth.People aren’t used to it.

Mrs Palin is from a rural state and she has rural values.She hunts,fishes,snowmbiles.She’s an athlete.She is nobody’s fool.Compare her to Nancy Pelosi,if you dare.Doesn’t work,does it?

Her religious views,to me,are her only downside.Creationism?That casts her in a whole new light, doesn’t it? How does one arise in the morning in 2008 and still believe in Creationism?

By AJC/DNC Management

September 2, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Corporal: Don’t think that I’m finished tearing your Jane Fonda rear end up on Vietnam, I’ll get to you when I get a chance, but I just had to share this with you as it looks like you won your bet:

If McCain wins, look for a full-fledged race and class war, fueled by a deflated and depressed country, soaring crime, homelessness - and hopelessness!- By Fatimah Ali Philadelphia Daily News

democats are sick, sick, sick.

By BDAtlanta

September 2, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

Regarding: *By hillbilly ragger

September 2, 2008 10:12 AM

Pretending to be “pro-life” has always been, and will always be, a sucker play that the Republican ruling class uses to keep you toadies in line, and to keep your women down and in a world of crap.*

Hilarious. There are a bunch of those toadies reading today. Hey, can we throw religion in there too?

By hillbilly ragger

September 2, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

BDAtlanta @ 10.39, please to explain “can we throw religion in there too?”

The “pro-life” mindset is almost exclusively Christianist (note I don’t say “Christian” because I t regard most religions righties to be apostates). These people believe in a Hummer-drivin’, Muslim-nation-invadin’ Jesus, who enjoys killing them all and letting Dad sort ‘em out.

But they LOVES them some (white) fetii!

By actonjoe

September 2, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

Another nice data point for the effectiveness of abstinence-only pregnancy and STD prevention sex education programs for kids. I’m sure Mom will change her mind now. Right….

By INDEPENDENT VOTER

September 2, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

Having a daughter attend a prestigious school is something that should make a parent proud! NOT HAVING A BABY AT THE TENDER AGE OF 17.

Q1. Why is she FORCING her child to get MARRIED to someone who doesn’t want kids?

They will be divorced within 3 years.

MR. WOOTEN have written articles on this all but condemning the woman who has a baby out of wedlock.

Gov. Palin is against sex education being taught in schools, against birth control etc. Her daughter was probably uncomfortable trying to talk to her parents about this problem.

What I worry about is, if they were both from such a painfully small, closely knit town that is deeply, deeply conservative - then maybe buying protection is just something someone can’t do without their parents, friends, and church leaders all knowing about it? Being from a town like Wasilla, that’s apparently extremely conservative and where everyone knows your business, could make it so kids don’t feel like they can even buy protection without being found out and judged. Were all these kids taught that abstinence only was the THE way to go before marriage, and anything besides that was evil and wrong?

First, J. McCain runs on the experience factor. Then he questions his opponent Judgment. Well this is one INDEPENDENT VOTER that has to question Senator McCain judgment.

ONE LAST THING, SEN. McCain didn’t know because he would have introduced the family to America as soon to be grandparents.

My guess is that she is NOT 5 months pregnant. My guess is that she IS the mother of the last baby that the Gov. claims is hers. My guess is that they will come up with a story as to why she is no longer pregnant before the election. All of this to cover up the original sin of lying about the pregnancy more than a year ago. And now the media will cry foul about covering the 17 year old, but of course it is not about her it is about the mother hiding it and lying about it. The McCain/Palin campaign made it about the girl when they released the statement claiming that she is pregnant now.

2nd - Send. Obama was elected by the DEMOCRAT PARTY and Gov. Palin was SELECTED by Sen. McCain. He had time to choose a person who didn’t have so much baggage such as Mitt Romney or Gov. Pawney,

By ESR

September 2, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

This is a matter only for the Palin’s and not the rest of us, this is outside the erena of politics and inside the Palin home. Will this be an issue for her family, you bet it will be. Being seventeen and a mother will be an issue but not so big of one that they cannot deal with it effectively and move on. This happens to a lot of families, too many, each year. There is no real concern here poasted by democrats in regards to the welfare of the Palin’s daughters child. This is polical moral mudslinging. Democrats wouldn’t care if she aborted the child or kept the child. They’re happy they have something to attack the woman who knocked their guy off the media landscape the day after his big hoopla and they’re also jealous that the naming of the ever so banal Biden didn’t cause a ripple of media but when Palin was announced, she ate up all the headline news. McCain will get over this hiccup and ge will go on to be the victor in November.

By BS Aplenty

September 2, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

Jay, young Bristol Palin’s situation, while private in nature, will likely remain so ONLY if she and the father decide to marry. Palin’s situation has little ot nothing to do with the Christian Right.

The very real consequences of most teenage & many single-parent families are vastly increased rates of economic poverty which brings the very private issue of motherhood squarely into the public policy arena. And, the Palin’s ARE doing the right thing, from a public policy perspective, by seeing their daughter married to the child’s father.

Get married at the church or courthouse - but get married.

McCain/Palin ‘08 - The Right Kind of Change

By AJC/DNC Management

September 2, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

By Bosch September 2, 2008 10:34 AM Andy, Most people facing those tough life decisions chose to do it at home, in private.

So did Sarah Palin, Bosch, but the Obama Smear Machine is not affording her the opportunity.

My point exactly.

By Bosch

September 2, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

Andy,

Sarah Palin is not affording her the opportunity by accepting the nomination for VEEP.

BSAplenty,

Why should they get married?

By Renny J. Caulder

September 2, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

If she’s good enough to b’own then she’s good enough to own.

Marriage - where freedom meets responsibility.

By lovelyliz

September 2, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

You need look not further than the Palin family and the GOP reaction to find out why evangelicals/conservative Chritians have the highest divorce rates of any religious group in the country.

It’s not the standing up in front of a preacher and possessing a certificate that makes a marriage. It’s the ability of 2 people to commit to one another, to build a life together, to support the family unit in a successful way that creates a marriage that lasts.

To marry when you don’t possess these traits is at the very least stupid and more than a bit hypocritical.

By actonjoe

September 2, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

The “Obama smear campaign” is responsible??!!!?? Did they impregnate her? Are they the ones who forced McCain to select someone for the Vice Presidency of the United States whom he had only met ONCE??

By INDEPENDENT VOTER

September 2, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

What upset me today was watching the anchors interview Republicans on Palin’s daughter being pregnant. Why not interview Democrats and Independents as well. Republicans are going to say what they want people to hear, when I’m sure behind closed doors they’re p** at the decision to add Sarah Palin to the ticket. The only group that is happy with this news issue would be EVANGELICALS. Here’s the problem most Democrats and Independents have with Sarah Palin and her daughter. They don’t care that she is pregnant. Period. They care that her mother, Sarah Palin is running on a platform of family values; is against sex education and wants to teach creationism is schools, and that only when she was faced with speculation that her son Trig was that of Bristol, that she decided to come out with the truth. This seems like she threw her daughter to the wolves to save her own career. Most mothers would’ve probably passed on the VP slot to save their daughter the public scrutiny. That’s what is so distressing about the issue. Maybe if she’d fought for sex education her daughter may have learned how to prevent pregnancy. And if she can’t teach the family values to her own family that she totes around as morally superior, how can we as Americans expect her to maintain American’s values. Does she not believe in birth control? Another issue is that she is a mother of 5, with a teenage daughter who is about to have a baby in 4 months. It would seem that her family’s need would be more important than running for VP. So I can imagine how difficult it will be for Sarah Palin to run her family effectively while, trying to run the country domestically and internationally, plus helping her daughter raise a newborn. In my eyes, I see Sarah Palin’s decision to run as VP, as a selfish, repugnant and an ambitious decision based on her goals and aspirations only, without regard to her children. That’s the problem many Democrats and Independents have with the issue and many do despite what Republican’s say. It’s not Bristol, it’s Sarah Palin.

Lastly, if this were Obama or if Michelle Obama was running for President with young children or even a teen that was pregnant. Fox News would be running coverage on it all day long.

DO YOU REMEMBER MICHELLE ON FOX NEWS WITH THE HEADLINES “OBAMA’S BABY MAMA”?

The unfortunate aspect is that many POOR females account for the high rate of teen pregnancy. They are ridiculed and seen as irresponsible and uneducated by the CONSERVATIVES (WOOTEN, LIMBAUGH, HANNITY) But Bristol gets pregnant and it’s a glorious thing. Many teen moms don’t have a mother running for VP and on the front pages of newspapers; their mothers are too busy trying to raise their own children and/or supporting their soon -to- be grandchild or grandchild. And many don’t have the support that Bristol will have, they struggle with school, daycare, work, food, diapers and finances just to name a few, and many have mothers who were teen moms themselves.

So while, Evangelicans try to portray this is something that makes Sarah Palin seem like one of them. Why don’t you try helping a teen mom with no support or with support that still inadequate, try getting out there and making a difference with your pro-life stances. Tell those women how admirable they are. It’s no cake walk, and I am appalled that many try to make it out to be. Especially when I hear some say, see she’s facing many challenges that alot of women go through. NO SHE ISN’T! She lives in the state house, free of charge, she paid six figures to do her job, and is in no way struggling to help her child.

So get off your high horses and stop trying to have it both ways. McCain is a HYPOCRITE. He voted AGAINST teen pregnancy programs and funds to help pregnant teens. And Sarah Palin can’t even teach her own child abstinence but wants us to bet our children’s future on that same principle. I know what the real world is like and how it operates, and the real world NEEDS CONDOMS AND BIRTH CONTROL in it, even for teens.

By lovelyliz

September 2, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

By Renny J. Caulder

If she’s good enough to b’own then she’s good enough to own.

Marriage - where freedom meets responsibility.

Marriage - where freedom meets responsibility OR a divorce attorney.

By AJC/DNC Management

September 2, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

By Bosch September 2, 2008 11:08 AM Andy, Sarah Palin is not affording her the opportunity by accepting the nomination for VEEP.

The candidates families are running for office now?

And if so, why is Obama and kookman both trying to distance themselves form such behavior?

Do they know it is a big fat loser for them?

Like I do?

By Jil

September 2, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

Since when is being pro-choice mean that we are all for killing babies. I am pro-choice, and abortion is not an option for ME, but that does not mean that I have the right to make choices for every other woman. I have no idea what their life is like or the situation was that got them pregnant. There is an entire spectrum of situations in which an unplanned pregnancy can come about, even violence and criminal ways i.e. rape and incest. So how can I tell another woman that she can’t do what she feels is right with HER body. We as a society should have NO opinion, just as we are being asked not to have an opinion on Bristol Palin’s family and their choices.

By BDAtlanta

September 2, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

Hey Hillbilly at September 2, 2008 10:46 AM

They enjoy killing them only if it’s someone else’s kids fighting the war. I’d like to see stats on the number of righties who voted for Bush the 2nd time while having kids in college in 2004 instead of serving in the military.

By Pro-children, but

September 2, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

I don’t really care what the daughter does, BUT a 4 month old baby needs his mother with him. A 4 month old baby with Down’s Syndrome, REALLY needs his mother with him. Why isn’t Palin’s apparent abandonment of that child (is she nursing on the campaign trail?) getting more attention?

By hillbilly ragger

September 2, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Jil @ 11.41, just to build a bit upon what you’ve posted, and it’s not a perfect analogy, but—

Rhose who consider themselves what we’ve come to know as “pro-choice” on abortion are, indeed, not in favor of terminating pregnancy any more than those who may advocate sensible drug possession laws are in favor of recreational drug use.

I personally loathe stoner behavior, and can’t stand drunks, either, but I think it’s terrible public policy to jail people for this kind of personal decision.

As for abortion, as outlined in Roe v. Wade, once an embryo enters the fetal stage and approaches some kind of autonomy and viability, then some kind of government-imposed regulation and restriction is reasonable and should be discussed, although I tend to trust what the medical community finds to be ethical rather than self-appointed religious leaders.

Pre-viability, it’s a no-brainer—it’s the woman’s decision, and the state can go pound salt if it doesn’t like her choice, whether it’s to carry to term or not.

This isn’t “baby killing;” this isn’t even “left wing.” This is pretty much mainstream American thought, which is why I don’t exactly fear this becoming an issue in this presidential election. (“Pro-lifers” tend to seriously overstate their numbers, and think they can win elections by slicing-and-dicing voters into opposing rare medical procedures that seem especially icky.)

By Pompano

September 2, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

Lovelyliz…the reason Conservative Christians have the highest divorce rate is that we actually do get married. We find this preferable to baby-mamas spreading their legs and spitting out babies by multiple daddies.

When 70% of Libs are born out of wedlock, it’s kinda hard to have much of a divorce rate.

By Hillbilly Deluxe

September 2, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

To Billy @ 1:03AM

Actually in the family we’ve had both miscarriages and stillbirths. In our family they are treated the same way. No apology necessary as no offense was taken.

By Peter

September 2, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

HA HA HA………….gee so the girl is 5 months pregnant………so how many months has she been 17 ?

By lovelyliz

September 2, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Pompano

It’s call hypocricy to claim to be pro-marriage when you marry and divorce and marry and divorce and…….

I doubt keeping divorce attorneys in business is what God mas in mind……..

Besides, what difference is it to a child whose paretns never married and the ones whose parents divorce before the kids was old enough to know what married means?

By AL

September 2, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

The libs are running scared now. Look at them condenming Palins daughter for something they would otherwise defend. Bookman you’re like a little weasel not knowing which cheap shot to take next. Palin is the perfect example of a hard working God fearing family person that has real children with real life problems and that scares you and your ilk to death. If she were a Lib you would be the first in line to put her on your shoulders and parade her around. You and your columns make me laugh you are so Typical. Thank God your not making any policy and only write for a washed up newspaper. That by the way used to be a good one until your kind took over. GROW THE HELL UP!!

By lovelyliz

September 2, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

It’s call hypocricy to claim to be pro-marriage when you marry and divorce and marry and divorce and…….

I doubt keeping divorce attorneys in business is what God ha4as in mind……..

Besides, what difference is it to a child whose parents never married and the one whose parents divorce before the kids was old enough to know what married means?

By Jake

September 2, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

I’m proud my 17 year old daughter is working hard at getting into a top tier college. I don’t think I’d be quite as proud of her making me a grandfather. Despite the Palin’s decision, I think this is a strong argument for the pro-choice side. Ane what’s with the Trigger, Tracker, Willow stuff? Is that an Alaska thing?

By Rita

September 2, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

The bottom line is once again McCain & momma Palin has demonstrated poor judgement. If what they say is true that he and she discussed the daughter’s situation, then WHY, in GOD’s name would they put this girl through such riticule and scutiny of the media and the public eye? Did Ms. Palin want to advance in politics so badly that she accepted the nomination, dispite the loss of her daughter’s privacy. Did John McCain want to lure the Hillary voters so coyly, that he would do anything including sale Palin’s daughter to the media wolves? Yes, I agree that this could happen to anyone and I appreciate Bristol’s “Choice” to have her baby, but you know she probably was afraid to tell her parents. It’s obvious that she held this secret so long that the choice was made for her. McCain isn’t a Maverick, he’s a selfish moron.

By RealityKing

September 2, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Picking Sarah Palin proves that John McCain is indeed a Republican Maverick, with a capital M. He certainly isn’t the third Bush/Cheney term liberals are selling. In fact, the cries of inexperience from the left indicate that Sarah was a great choice, in light of the extent of Obama’s experience of course.

After all, one community organizer is as good as another, right..? Oh wait, one wasn’t so good at that either.., was he.

By Chris, Atlanta, GA

September 2, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Something that these Right-Wingers don’t understand:

If you don’t want an abortion, GREAT!!! More power to you. Guess what? Its your choice. A lot of people believe differently. Just don’t shove your beliefs down everyone’s throats.

Now that’s out of the way, I’m just waiting for the other juicy stuff to come out. Especially her previously being a member of the Alaska Independence Party (AIP).

Finally: THANK YOU JOHN MCCAIN. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU.

Your role of the dice (I know something you love to do) worked really well………………..for Obama!!!

By Jen

September 2, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

Pompano, do you understand what a RATE is? It doesn’t matter if it were true that liberals don’t get married or that 70% of libs are born out of wedlock (sources for these “facts” please).

By Thrash

September 2, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

The Pro-choicers are cut & runners just like their liberal presidential empty suit candidate. Sweet.

By Chris, Atlanta, GA

September 2, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

By Jen September 2, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this Pompano, do you understand what a RATE is? It doesn’t matter if it were true that liberals don’t get married or that 70% of libs are born out of wedlock (sources for these “facts” please).

Hey Jen, You’re right but then you don’t see us shoving a twisted version of family values down everybody’s throats while doing the opposite!

By AL

September 2, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

Govenor Palin could no more diavow her own daughter than she could disavow the whole teen community that has made a bad decision.

Obama could no more disavow Rev Wright …..Oh you heard the speech. HILARIOUS!!! LIBS ARE RUNNING SCARED!!!!

By Chris, Atlanta, GA

September 2, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

By AL September 2, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this Govenor Palin could no more diavow her own daughter than she could disavow the whole teen community that has made a bad decision. Obama could no more disavow Rev Wright …..Oh you heard the speech. HILARIOUS!!! LIBS ARE RUNNING SCARED!!!!

Hey Al, Yeah, we’re running so scared that we just CAN’T wait for November. We all LOVE JOHN MCCAIN NOW!!! One of my first reactions to this VP pick was THANK YOU JOHN MCCAIN!!!

Yeah, we’re all quaking in our sandals!!! LMAO & ROFL

By ryan

September 2, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Jay,

I rarely agree with but always enjoy reading your points of view. I’m still searching for your point in this article though. You think the McCain camp is trying to score points simply by making the annoucement now? Give me a break!

Hope you’re back on your A game soon.

Ryan

By tcoach

September 2, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

This is an issue of Roe v. Wadeis all. Either you are glad the daughter is going to keep the child or you see her life ending. I want one person in favor of choice to answer this question honestly. A person goes to the pound they play with a puppy and find it to be a fun day. They go back a couple of times and the next thing they know before they can stop themselves they have paid the money to adopt a puppy. However after they realize the couple of days of fun has now turned into a responsibility they are scared. So since the puppy was hard and was messing up their social life and their furniture, they decide to have it sucked through a massive vacum and ripped apart into tiny pieces. Would you want this person prosecuted for cruelty to animals?

By lovelyliz

September 2, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

If the neo-cons really believed in marriage, they would ban divorce!!!!!!!!

By mike

September 2, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

Politics aside, with the crying need of an unmarried teenager and a four month old chiid with Down syndrome, what kind of mother abandon’s two children in favor of blind ambition.?

Given the circumstances, I’d be damned if I would let my wife run for office. McCain can find another suitable running mate: Bristol and Baby Trig have only one mother. Shame on both Sarah Palin and her husband.

By tcoach

September 2, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

To those who say Palin should not run for office I ask this question. Would you tell a man to not accept a promotion that would pay more and place the family in a better, more connected path? Or are mothers the only ones capable of raising children. Also all of teh doctors my wife went to told her that breast feeding is only highly advantagous the first 3 months after the baby is born. So please stop with all of the 4 months old she needs to be breast feeding comments.

By Thug Junky

September 2, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

One thing I’ve learned.

Conservatives/Republicans can and WILL spin ANYTHING!!!!!!!!!

By Pat

September 2, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

Thug Junky (nice name BTW), Conservatives don’t have a monopoly on the spin machine.

http://www.cafepress.com/IdVeepHer

By GOPs got to go

September 2, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

Question:

“Her religious views,to me,are her only downside.Creationism?That casts her in a whole new light, doesn’t it? How does one arise in the morning in 2008 and still believe in Creationism?”

Answer:

The body arises but the head stays buried in the sand.

As Jon Stewart so hilariously but it, thinking a woman will vote for Palin just because they are gynecologic twins, is just stupid. I would note vote for her because of her views on sex education, science and gun control.

Whether she is a good mother is debatable. One would have to ask her children. Not my business. Nor is Bristal’s lack of birth control. However, as Independent voter put it, the availability of birth control in a small (minded) town is another subject all together.

VERY good post Independent Voter! I had to read it as if Suzanne Sugerbaker was giving somebody a talk’in to. Can I get a witness?

By Jimbo I

September 2, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

God I can’t stand any of you, left or right. You’re both just trying to ban crap and trample people to get your nose in their business. I wouldn’t vote for either “major candidate” if they paid me and I wouldn’t put it out of the realm of possibility for either of them.

If you’re marching to the beat of their drums you all deserve whatever you get, which I assure you will not be what you expect. It never is.

By Thug Junky

September 2, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

Hey Pat.. Just want you to know I chose that name specifically for you and those like you. I figured it would make you feel REAL good. Glad to be of service.

Not clicking your link, as I’ve had my propaganda fill for the day.

By Slotl

September 2, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

@@ made the following quote: “The Roe v. Wade decision was based on the right to privacy, the concept that this is an area in which government interference is not appropriate and indeed unconstitutional.”

The Bush administration has DECIMATED the right to privacy with the Patriot Act, so why wouldn’t McCain follow in Bush’s footsteps and decimate a woman’s right to choose.

This election is no longer about the Presidental candidtartes McCain vs. Obama. It is now a fight for control of the Supreme Court and a woman’s right to choose.

By Slotl

September 2, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

@@ made the following quote: “The Roe v. Wade decision was based on the right to privacy, the concept that this is an area in which government interference is not appropriate and indeed unconstitutional.”

The Bush administration has DECIMATED the right to privacy with the Patriot Act, so why wouldn’t McCain follow in Bush’s footsteps and decimate a woman’s right to choose.

This election is no longer about the Presidental candidates McCain vs. Obama. It is now a fight for control of the Supreme Court and a woman’s right to choose.

By Common Sense

September 2, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

This truly disappoint to read what is on the blog!

So many are of you considered yourself a christian but act like a heathen!

A constant put down of the least! Stating words with no actual facts about anyone is not christian like!

This is truly disappointing I like Governor Palin if she did not have so much going on at home.

It remains a fact it takes 2 people to raise a family!

That being said those who are christians start acting likt it and stop put this hate fill words on this blog.

If you do not know the truth then why lie about it!

I guess Jesus words don’t count in an election!

Remember God knows how you are acting and what is in your mind and heart!

By lovelyliz

September 2, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

Note that it’s NOT THE LIBERALSe conservative Christians who in a church, pledge to God a promise to marry only to break that promise over and over and over again. The liberals are generally just as happy to avoid marriage, fly out to Vegas or some such secular way to llegally bind their pledge.

By lovelyliz

September 2, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

Note that it’s NOT THE LIBERALSe conservative Christians who in a church, pledge to God a promise to marry only to break that promise over and over and over again. The liberals are generally just as happy to avoid marriage, fly out to Vegas or some such secular way to llegally bind their pledge.

By lovelyliz

September 2, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Note that it’s NOT THE LIBERALS but their more conservative Christians who in a church, pledge to God a promise to marry only to break that promise over and over and over again. The liberals are generally just as happy to avoid marriage, fly out to Vegas or some such secular way to llegally bind their pledge.

By Jimbo I

September 2, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

Sorry Common Sense,

I’ll get right on putting thousands of dissenters to the sword like Charlemagne, he was the holy roman emperor, right? and a great christian?

Or I could just put all the men to the sword in every village I come to.. I mean, Cromwell did it in Ireland.

Christianity is an ideal and by judging us you’re failing to live up to it. Let you who is without sin cast the first stone?

With the historical evidence in hand and current events fresh on my mind I proudly claim the title of “heathen” and bare it like a badge of honor.

By Jimbo I

September 2, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

Sorry Common Sense,

I’ll get right on putting thousands of dissenters to the sword like Charlemagne, he was the holy roman emperor, right? and a great christian?

Or I could just put all the men to the sword in every village I come to.. I mean, Cromwell did it in Ireland.

Christianity is an ideal and by judging us you’re failing to live up to it. Let you who is without sin cast the first stone?

With the historical evidence in hand and current events fresh on my mind I proudly claim the title of “heathen” and bear it like a badge of honor.

By Jim Riley

September 2, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

RE: “…other young women in very different circumstances might feel compelled to make a different decision..”

Wrong. It is never right to kill a child in the womb, simply because it would be a more convenient reality in different circumstances. The moronic moral universe of the American left on this issue is beyond belief.

Listening to the left “reasoning” on abortion is something like listening to the rhetoric of slave-holders in the old south.

Do you like that company?

By Jimbo I

September 2, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Sorry Common Sense,

I’ll get right on putting thousands of dissenters to the sword like Charlemagne, he was the holy roman emperor, right? and a great christian?

Or I could just put all the men to the sword in every village I come to.. I mean, Cromwell did it in Ireland.

Christianity is an ideal and by judging us you’re failing to live up to it. Let you who is without sin cast the first stone?

With the historical evidence in hand and current events fresh on my mind I proudly claim the title of “heathen” and bear it like a badge of honor.

By Jimbo I

September 2, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

Really Jim?

What about all the eggs that don’t hit that fleshy part of the uterus after getting fertilized in the fallopian tubes?

What about the genetic failures born with a brain stem but no brain? Without even the top of their skull.

All this “child in the womb” crap from a species that didn’t even name babies until they were a couple years old (or at their funeral) because so many of them died and that was only a couple centuries ago.

The factory is imperfect and the product is reliant on the it. The thing without a brain is alive in your scenario, but in mine it isn’t and never will be. A heart beat and living cells is not an indicator of life. If it were cancer would have rights as would parasitic twins and other genetic abnormalities.

Also, please explain the tenuous link between abortion and slavery. I HAVE to hear this.

By shante

September 2, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

This pregnancy issue is big when you consider that Palin is 2nd in line to run the white house. She needs to get her own house in order before getting the 2nd in command job in Washington. Also, I question John McCain’s judgement in the choice of a candidate that has zero foreign policy experience. God forbid he becomes unable to complete his term and she gets that 3 am call!

By shante

September 2, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

I think it is wrong to abort a baby, for any reason. That said, I don’t vote for people who govern this country based upon their view on abortion. What about the case for the current war we are engaged in that has taken the lives of many innocent children. The GOP is all for the “pro-life” bandwagon when it comes to winning the Christian Right vote, but pro-choice when it comes to perpetuating a war that has already claimed the lives of many innocent children and a war that will continue to do so.

By Kristy

September 2, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this

The link between abortion and slavery is the respect for human life. Slavery is domestic terrorism. Slaves were tortured, raped,and murdered. How can someone be pro-life, yet have such disrespect for human life? It’s like being anti-abortion, but being for capital punishment. Seems hypocritical especially if you are a christian.

By FrederickDouglass

September 3, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this

Conjecture, conjecture, none of this teen baby mama drama will affect the election. The country is in tatters, the majority electorate will give McCain/Palin four more years to complete the demolition, count on it.