Thinking Right

By TAFKAH

February 7, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

Hard to tell which makes me laugh harder…the sight of the wingnuts turning on each other, or the assertion that Jim “work[s] through the middle of the day”.

Have at each other, nutters.

By Cosmo

February 7, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this

TAFKAH, like Liberals and Democrats who never work and live off hard working tax payers money?

By jbmlaw

February 7, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this

Good morning all. Read a sobering article by Dan Henninger this morning, and he makes a great argument. Since 1925 the Republicans have nominated a conservative for president exactly three times: 1964, 1980, and 1984. Surely it would be untrue to mask our disappointment again this year, but it is time to get over it. The economics-challenged standard bearer has the good sense to lean on Phil Gramm and Steve Forbes, so I do not worry much about his lack of acquaintance with the world the rest of us live in.

For me Sen. McCain still has one item to explain or clarify, and then I can vote for him with a clear conscience: Alito. Mr. McCain’s spoken worry about Alito “wearing his conservatism on his sleeve” does bother me, and I cannot rationalize it away. There is a custom – for all I know it may even be one of those thousands of stupid laws – that forbids a presidential candidate from providing short lists of those who would be nominees. That is what I want to see: that his short list is Janice Rogers Brown and Miguel Estrada and all of the other superior talents that the leftist-obstructionists seek to muzzle. I am encouraged by rumors that McCain’s judicial advisors are Ted Olson, and Sam Brownback, and Jon Kylm, but I am not satisfied.

By Glenn

February 7, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this

• DAY 7: No Child Left Unsold

Thanks for this good piece, Jim, my favorite of a fortnight. McCain first, then the Newtonian.

I do not think that McCain can get through the C-PAC speech without lying. I was with him here in Cobb last weekend, and he dropped about one lie in for every ~10 true points. If he can tell the simple truth today, I’ll be impressed. And I do mean impressed.

I wish that someone like Newt had run. For me—-and for too few like me—-true-blue Reagan conservatism wedded to get-it-done open-mindedness about honest-to-God restructuring is my idea of a dream leader. Mr. Gingrich himself, however, would be done dirty over his personal life in exactly the same way that Rudy was screwed. Too damn bad. The country should have had Hamilton’s presidential services too.

Incidentally, though it be not incidental, you were right and I was wrong about endorsements. Massachusetts bore you out.

[Petraeus/Honore ‘12]

By jbmlaw

February 7, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

While strolling back for my sixth cup of coffee, I conceived my “litmus test”: Mr. Nominee, would you have voted with the majority or minority in the Kelo case, and why? If Sen. McCain would pledge to employ that litmus test, I could vote for him.

By BIG DAWG

February 7, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

You right wingers, I feel your pain…. You can’t stand the fact that McCain is WHERE the Republican party NEEDS to go. Remember Zell Miller telling everyone the Democratic party had changed? So has the Republican. The Bob Doles and McCains or Chuck Hagels WERE the standard Republican until Jerry Fawell & the “christian coalition” hijacked the party and made it extremist.

Boortz, Hannity and “Hush Bimbo” see their gravy running out. The more they scream, the more votes McCain gets. People are REJECTING the right wing trash. I saw ‘AMEN’!

By Netta

February 7, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

McAmnesty is not where the Republican party needs to go! He is where the Democrats already are.

McCain wanted to switch from the GOP to the Democratic party just a few short years ago! He supports the rights of people sneaking over the border! He wants Amnesty! If pushed he said “Alright I’ll give them the damn fence” He is a war hero, but that was also 40 years ago! Bush has allowed McCain to happen. Bush has also because of his extreme tolerence of illegals made the Republican party look bad. It is not that I want the country to go down the toilet in the next four years, the fact is IT IS GOING DOWN THE TOILET NO MATTER WHAT - And when it does I don’t want it going down the toilet on a Republican’s (albeit Political Cross-dresser that he is) Let it go down the toilet on the Democrat’s watch… This is the only chance we have of getting a REAL Republican candidate in the White house next time. If we support McCain now - which is what he expects - it is like telling the rest of our generation that this is the Republican party and also that you can be a Republican cross dresser and we’ll put up with it because we have no other choice. The only clear choice in this strategy is Hillary. If Obama gets the White House and does not succeed they will forgive him, he needs time to adjust, he has no experience, he has never even been in charge of anyone in any sort of managerial position before. We need Hillary - to fight against this fake Republican party that has surfaced - to give us time to re-establish the Republican party - to let McCain know that we do have a choice -

By Netta

February 7, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

McAmnesty is not where the Republican party needs to go! He is where the Democrats already are.

McCain wanted to switch from the GOP to the Democratic party just a few short years ago! He supports the rights of people sneaking over the border! He wants Amnesty! If pushed he said “Alright I’ll give them the damn fence” He is a war hero, but that was also 40 years ago! Bush has allowed McCain to happen. Bush has also because of his extreme tolerence of illegals made the Republican party look bad. It is not that I want the country to go down the toilet in the next four years, the fact is IT IS GOING DOWN THE TOILET NO MATTER WHAT - And when it does I don’t want it going down the toilet on a Republican’s (albeit Political Cross-dresser that he is) Let it go down the toilet on the Democrat’s watch… This is the only chance we have of getting a REAL Republican candidate in the White house next time. If we support McCain now - which is what he expects - it is like telling the rest of our generation that this is the Republican party and also that you can be a Republican cross dresser and we’ll put up with it because we have no other choice. The only clear choice in this strategy is Hillary. If Obama gets the White House and does not succeed they will forgive him, he needs time to adjust, he has no experience, he has never even been in charge of anyone in any sort of managerial position before. We need Hillary - to fight against this fake Republican party that has surfaced - to give us time to re-establish the Republican party - to let McCain know that we do have a choice -

By Glenn

February 7, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

Very interesting, jbm, how your mind works. Allow me the fun of having a second thermosful as I walk the dog and ponder your Kelo question of McCain…

By jbmlaw

February 7, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this

Dear Netta @ 8:55, while the Limbaugh-Coulter strategy of sitting out 2008 is not illogical, it is not the equivalent of a game plan. Surely we can kick the ball into our own end zone, but that does not lead to a touchdown on the next possession. Who is our 2012 nominee, and what is the guarantee that we won’t have to take another safety then?

By Glenn

February 7, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this

Well of course you would think that, DAWG, wouldn’t you.

By Redneck Convert

February 7, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

Well, I listen to Rush and Sean and Neal and you got to say they are right about this librul McCain. What some of these Traders in the party is trying to do is take it away from us godly Right-thinking conservatives. They want to put a Democrat dressed up like a Republican in the White House.

If McCain wants our support he’s going to have to change his way of thinking. He’s OK on the war and I like what he says about staying in Iraq for 100 years, but he’s as leaky as a old tire on other things. There’s lots of things I want to hear him say before us rednecks will support him.

First off, he’s got to stop talking about reaching across the isle to the librul Democrats. We just can’t have that. We got to keep filibustering and voting against anything the Democrats want even if it means nothing gets done. Then we can keep blaming them for not getting nothing done. Old Newt and others didn’t give up their lives with the Contract on America so some lily-livered Trader could meet the Democrats halfway. We got to keep the war on the libruls going and blasting them every time we talk. We got to let them know they are the scum of the earth.

Second, we need more tax cuts. We can borrow more from China if we need to do it, but we got to stick with Trickle Down. Let the rich guys stop paying taxes until the money piles up around their doors and they can’t get in their houses and pretty soon they’ll get tired of using a bulldozer to move it and they will start spending some of it and it will Trickle Down to regular people like me. I expect people like jbmlaw is already in a sweat about how they are going to pay for their country club if taxes get raised.

Third, we got to stop all welfare and McCain needs to say it. Keep cutting Medicare and Medicaid and kids care and all that stuff like My President does. We got a war going on and we can’t afford to pay for stuff like that and be going against Gods Will that those people got to die off like they are suppose to.

Fourth, McCain has to come out against all abortion and birth control and gay marriage and evil stuff like that. Sure, me and other conservatives are all for getting the guvmint off of our backs, but not when it comes to stuff people do in their bedrooms. We can’t just stand by and let people do nasty stuff in private that don’t go with what the Bible says to do.

Fifth, we need to get rid of Social Security. If McCain was Thinking Right, we could form the Old Folks Army from the people drawing guvmint checks like jbmlaw says to do. Sure, it might cost a little to buy lightweight weapons and set up shuffleboard courts and movie places at army bases, but in the end we would be rid of Social Security and have more people to send to Iraq too.

Sixth, we got to get around these laws about civil rights and not allowing taxes to be spent on private schools. My President has been doing a pretty good job of kind of winking at the civil rights laws and McCain could learn alot just by watching him. And people need to be able to send their kids to Christian schools where they won’t be taught all kind of ideas that can turn them into libruls. You won’t find no librul teachers in Christian schools.

Seventh, McCain needs to come out for the Death Penalty big time. We got the right to expect Justice, and there ain’t nothing more just than seeing prisoners lined up waiting to get the needle.

So this is the kind of stuff I need to hear McCain say to those conservatives today. If he does, I can support him. If he don’t, I’ll do like Rush and Sean and Neal say to do. We may just stay home if McCain is the Republican that runs and he don’t change his librul way of thinking.

By TruthSpeak

February 7, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

Watch the McCain speech this week? After seeing Lieberman side by side on the podium, may have lost my vote. Too bad..

By Mike Gauthier

February 7, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

I get freedom of speech. But the reality is, one person with the freedom of the airwaves has influence. The rest of us, without that access, have no influence. And, it’s people like Limbaugh who are driving the polarization of this country. That’s great, if you just want to screw the people who disagree with you. But our country doesn’t work so well when we’re fanning the flames of hatred.

The other thing is, if McCain is the nominee, Rush will forget all about how horrible he is, and move his completely biased attack against the Democratic nominee. Count on it.

I guess we have to put up with him, but that man is NOT good for our country.

By Ann Coulter

February 7, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

It’s me, skeletor. John McCain is satan and he needs to be stopped. The best way to do this is to buy my new book “Why conservatives can’t think for themselves and need people like us to tell them what to do.” I know it will be a smashing success, like the Iraq war and the entire Bush presidency.

By Mid-South Philosopher

February 7, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this

Good morning, Jim,

The talking heads (or other parts of the anatomy, take your choice) influence their fans. With respect to Limbaugh and Hannity, this includes the corporatists, a preponderance of the fiscal conservatives, and (at least until lately) much of the Christian right. Of late they are taking the cut-off your nose to spit their face attitude. The very idea of Ann Coulter voting for and even campaigning for Hillary is ridiculous. Limbaugh, setting out the election, is a joke too unless he has received a new supply of OxyContin!

Given that Huckabee cannot be elected…he might mention Jesus or something in the White House…John McCain is worth an Obama and two Clintons.

What galls me is that the same members of the Republican party who touted the conservatism of George W. Bush in 2000 are the ones who are asserting that McCain will be liberal. Bush turned out to be the most liberal Republican President, at least in 100 years, if not ever! What makes these geniuses think they have McCain figured out any better than they did Bush.

and Good morning to jmblaw

When I have a little more time, I will respond in more detail to your critique of my explanation to Dusty of the term corporatist. Unfortunately, I am knee deep in supporting this Bush economy.

However, I have to compliment you on your “litmus test” epiphany. I agree! Incidentally, Kelo v. New London is a prime corporatist centered case! Good work.

By Truthifier

February 7, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

I’m curious who Rush is referring to when he says “the people who seem to be triumphing” in the Republican party. While I don’t really follow Republican politics, I didn’t realize the party had taken a leftward turn. Anyone know what/who he’s talking about?

By JanetP

February 7, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

McCain is just too old to be president. He will be 72 years and 5 months if he takes office. Thus, he would be 76 years at the end of the term. He surely wouldn’t run for a 2d term. Without that hammer over his head he will be free to do all the evil he feels necessary to settle scores. He has already said we will be in Iraq for a hundred years. He was the principal author of the ‘path to citizenship’ legislation and clearly has not changed his position since he won’t directly answer the question of whether he would still vote for it. Is this the best America has to offer?

By Clueless sheep

February 7, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

BAH! BAH!

BAH! BAH!

Please instruct me what to do next. My radio just stopped working and I don’t know what to do. It’s hard being a conservative when everything wrong with the world is always someone else’s fault. Oh great Ann Coulter golden stick figure idol, what shall I do next??

BAH! BAH!

By JanetP

February 7, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

McCain is just too old to be president. He will be 72 years and 5 months if he takes office. Thus, he would be 76 years at the end of the term. He surely wouldn’t run for a 2d term. Without that hammer over his head he will be free to do all the evil he feels necessary to settle scores. He has already said we will be in Iraq for a hundred years. He was the principal author of the ‘path to citizenship’ legislation and clearly has not changed his position since he won’t directly answer the question of whether he would still vote for it. Is this the best America has to offer?

By John Meade

February 7, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

Sen. McCain continues to get slammed by the extreme right of the Republican party for his vote on immigration last year. The same slammers hearken back to the principals of President Reagan and his conservative theme while in office. Remember that the immigration bill was voted down and President Reagan provided amnesty to illegal immigrants, not Sen. McCain. The extreme right has a short memory. The real thrust of their efforts should be directed at getting a president and congress elected and who is able to beat the Democrats.

By JanetP

February 7, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

McCain is just too old to be president. He will be 72 years and 5 months if he takes office. Thus, he would be 76 years at the end of the term. He surely wouldn’t run for a 2d term. Without that hammer over his head he will be free to do all the evil he feels necessary to settle scores. He has already said we will be in Iraq for a hundred years. He was the principal author of the ‘path to citizenship’ legislation and clearly has not changed his position since he won’t directly answer the question of whether he would still vote for it. Is this the best America has to offer?

By Mike Barstow

February 7, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

Great thing about politics in the US the voters always get what they deserve. Wait how can that be? The Republicans have put up with do nothing RINOs (Republican In Name Only) for years. They adopt liberal ideas and policies. After not throwing them out they have one now poised to be their nominee. While the Democrats put people into groups describe how they are “victims”. So now their voters have to decide on who is the most down trodden to lead their party? The mean time Rome burns.

By John McCain

February 7, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

Democrats don’t work…Haha. All stereotypes from 30 years ago are still true. About half the country voted Democrat for Kerry. Does that mean half the country doesn’t work? Thank god for Republican suckers like you paying all my bills for me….You guys are like the sheep going to slaughter.

By BIG DAWG

February 7, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

What’s funny is that James Dobson, Hannity, Boortz, “Hush” and the rest of you right wing complainers will line up like good little lemmings and vote Nov 4th for McCain.

You will justify it by gleaning one phrase McCain makes in a speech and rationalize in your minds that he is a “true conservative”.

You spew out words like “sticking to principal”, and “we will not compromise” but you WILL compromise and vote for the “liberal” (as you call McCain) and you can use Hillary or any other rational you want, but you will be sell outs to your principals (if you really had any).

We (moderates) are just glad to be getting our party back.

By Mike Barstow

February 7, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

Great thing about politics in the US the voters always get what they deserve. Wait how can that be? The Republicans have put up with do nothing RINOs (Republican In Name Only) for years. They adopt liberal ideas and policies. After not throwing them out they have one now poised to be their nominee. While the Democrats put people into groups describe how they are “victims”. So now their voters have to decide on who is the most down trodden to lead their party? The mean time Rome burns.

By Southern Democrat

February 7, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

Only in America can we have the party with “values voters” and the highest percentage of people who vote for people that “think like me” wring their hands about a decorated war hero who is the most electable candidate on their slate while simulatenously longing for a thrice-married Speaker of the House whose leadership was a spectacular failure and who left office under a cloud of ethics questions.

As I wrote to my brother-in-law who tends to skew Libertarian-Conservative, a McCain-Obama general election would be the first time in my life that I have had confidence that the president elected will be capable; meanwhile, my conservative friends are still looking around for a possible ‘conservative’ candidate.

Further, the continued relevance of Mr. Oxycontin perplexes me.

Jbmlaw, your list of preferred SCOTUS appointees sent a chill down my bones. I may need a hot tea! Can’t you suggest an Ambro or Calabresi to soothe my frayed nerves?

Netta, as a young neighbor says, “Chillax.”

By John McCain

February 7, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

Democrats don’t work…Haha. All stereotypes from 30 years ago are still true. About half the country voted Democrat for Kerry. Does that mean half the country doesn’t work? Thank god for Republican suckers like you paying all my bills for me….Do any of you have your OWN political views and not listening to the constant brainwashing from the republican loudmouths.

By John

February 7, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

One speech ten speches, McCain can change knowthing. His past 20 plus years in the senate have already spoken out loud and clear as to who he is. I plan to vote Republican in the general, but not for McCain. I will write in Newt Gingrich for what it’s worth.

By maggie ann.

February 7, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

So you say the party needs, “somebody who offers fresh ideas based on putting individuals back in control of their lives — that is, in bringing about limited government by lessening dependence on it.” And yet, this article, and its comments offer not one glimpse at the one presidential candidate that is running on this ticket— the ticket of true republican value. I’m not going to put your intelligence level on the line by questioning whether or not you know who I am talking about. Because I’m sure you do, and I’m sure you have decided like all the rest that this is not what America wants so you’re not going to waste your time giving it to them. But you are wrong, and the American people who are waking to the shamble our democratic republic is in are finding a way to get what they want. The fact that people are waking up to the issues is good and well, I just hope they have enough intelligence to look past the facades and get their information for themselves, and quite trusting their TeeVees. Case in point, early on in the race, when questioned why votes were cast for John McCain, people responded quizzically that they were not aware that he was such a pro-war candidate. The media jumped on the bandwagon of the votes cast, creating a mudslide effect amounting to coverage, coverage, coverage. And yet, the true nature of John McCain is often glossed over. I am glad that people are speaking up about what this candidate would do to the GOP, but more importantly I feel we must understand what this candidate would do to America, which would be destroy it.

By MELO

February 7, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

Boortz, Hannity and “Hush Bimbo” see their gravy running out. The more they scream, the more votes McCain gets. AMEN.Come back again and say it once more time coz these wjingnuts need to listen.Mcacain is a regular guy and what he believes is borne out of being in prison in Vietnam and the navy and his association with democrats with middle of the road values. Fart Luquqous Windblow and Hatred Nonentity Han can all kiss Macain’s azz!

By Ann Coulter

February 7, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

It’s me, skeletor. John McCain is satan and he needs to be stopped. The best way to do this is to buy my new book “Why conservatives can’t think for themselves and need people like us to tell them what to do.” I know it will be a smashing success, like the Iraq war and the entire Bush presidency

By Diogenes

February 7, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

Good morning, Jim,

I see you are still beating that poor ole dead horse. It should be obvious to the discerning that the Republican party is moribund and has nothing to offer the American people. McCain’s “successes” are in lieu of having a valid candidate, and Huckabee only appeals to man’s baser instincts — his religiosity. Bush has done so much damage that even Hercules would have trouble cleaning out those stables. The Republican party has turned its collective back on the people when all they have to show for their effects is McCain and Huckabee. Let me suggest that you examine Mr Obama’s platform; there’s a young man with a dream to help us recover from the oppressions of Bush and party — one that will work.

By Return to Conservatism!

February 7, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

I’m scared if McCain gets the nomination, but i’m really scared of either osama or billary get the nod too. Either way it seems all the progress made by Bush over the last 8 years will be turned back. Illegal immigration, gay marraige, fiscal repsonsibility, lmited government were all on the bush agenda and had turned the corner until 06 when the demoncrats took back control of congress. even yesterday the dems tried to add 40 billion to the stimulus package, for disabled veterans and unemployed!! Well i’m sorry, but those who are in the military know and accept they can get hurt, they shopuldn’t expect other tax-payers to dole out bucks for them. and if your unemployed u need to go to walmart or a supertarget and start working (they always got new ones opening up). No more living off of me!!!

By RJ

February 7, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

You can write no better script for sweeping the Independent vote in a landslide that what is unfolding for McCain right now. McCain, so independent he infuriates the hard right(Chortle).

Does anyone have any doubt that conservatives will sweep him in in November? No. What will happen is he will sweep the Republican, Independent and, according to polls, some democrats.

By zeke

February 7, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

I have nothing but respect for McCain’s military service and his pow experience. However, he is no conservative. McCain-Feingold, McCain-Kennedy and currently McCain- Lieberman are examples of liberal and unconstitutional views by him! The best person currently for the job of President/Commander in Chief is Romney! We need his business acumen and economic knowledge to get the country away from the liberal socialist tax and spend, and, if you don’t have it spend in deficits! God forbid that either of the democrat demogogs is elected! Then we will be on the path to Euro socialism and eventually to Russia, China, Cuba style communism!

Why do the media continue to inaccuartely portray them as the democratic party? There is nothing democratic about these socialists! The correct name is the DEMOCRAT PARTY!!! I guess the liberal leftist socialist media trys to mislead all uninformed voters that this is a democratic political organization!! NOT!!!

By TW

February 7, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

Ever notice that those who rail against McCain the loudest are the same ones who beat their chests the hardest about Weapons of Mass Destruction?

Ever notice that those who rail against the ‘illegal aliens’ the loudest are the same ones who used to pridefully throw the N-word around?

John McCain ‘08

Patriotism Before Profit

By Adam

February 7, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

JBM’s idea of a Kelo litmus test is interesting. However, rather than a litmus test for a Court nominee I would be interested in the position of McCain himself on the question. His fascination with positioning himself as a “Maverick” in order to gain favor in the press is what makes him so unpredictable and suspect with conservatives. I still maintain that the glowing praise he gets from the left will suddenly evaporate come November. The MoveOn’s will never be satisfied.

By the way, as Leftists are wont to do, the frequently come up with new terms as they attempt to dissociate themselves with previous labels. Liberals become self described “Progressives” etc. I suppose the same now holds true by using “Corporatist” instead of “Captialist” as a term of derision. That way you can still be a Marxist but a hip one.

By beaz

February 7, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

Why do conservatives use this code language: “appoint strict constructionist judges” when what they really mean is “appoint Judges to overturn Roe v. Wade?” Just say what you mean!! Be honest for once!

By Will

February 7, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

For argument sake, let’s say the republican radio entertainers prevail in stopping Senator McCain’s nomination. So what would the nomination be worth to anyone else?

If Senator McCain does not win another single delegate prior to the convention, he will take almost 800 delegates to the convention.

For someone to get those delegates, that someone will have to offer up some pretty big promises that I don’t think that the republican radio entertainers will like. My guess is that the entertainers will flip-flop on this and accept a brokered candidate because I believe their hate for Senator McCain is mostly a personal hate. Senator McCain is a rough and tumble fellow who was beaten and tortured for six years. He doesn’t bow down to anyone, including his physical tormentors in Hanoi or his verbal tormentors on the radio.

For the republican radio entertainers who literally live in a glass house of their fans, they will never accept someone who does not acknowledge their importance.

I think we are all seeing the extent of influence these entertainers really have. After all, didn’t Ann Coulter endorse Duncan Hunter for president. How’s that working out for Ann?

By zeke

February 7, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

Good for them!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Ron

February 7, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this

Good Morning Jim,No sane person can listen to Limbaugh on a regular basis.If he has another Clinton in the White House,he will disembowel himself on Fox News.He will go gaga ecstatic bonkers.Never had the pleasure of listening to Hannity,sorry.I do catch Howie Carr on WRKO out of Boston.He makes pretty good sense.For awhile it appears that the Rights Wingnuts are going to be howling to the wind.

By Nomo Stew

February 7, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this

McCain is the kind of conservative I used to vote for when I used to vote Republican. McCain understands that freedom means, like, actually being free and having rights, not being pawns of oligarchs and theocrats. McCain has the kind of INTEGRITY that used to be the Republican stock-in-trade.

Eight years of the largest government spending binge ever isn’t enough for you? You want more “values” leadership that spends money like mad to cover its incompetence and lies to its own base? (Hint: Iraq was not behind al Qaeda and had no WMDs, and any competent review of the intelligence showed that AT THE TIME.)

Newt? Newt!?! The man who outslimed Clinton and turned his back on the Contract with America as soon as he was elected? That’s the better idea compared to McCain?

McCain can win this election and improve this country. But I guess wacko rightists would rather have the party pull a Goldwater.

No wonder the Democrats are winning.

By Polly A

February 7, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

I disagree with “Huckabee is not the man”. If you get past the religious aspect the media keeps harping on, his fiscal policies are conservative. Yes, he raised some taxes, but lowered a lot more. Those he did raise were specifically tied to improvements, some that were court mandated. Business leaders (Tyson and the like) in AR said his government was pro-business.

By Political Foreskin

February 7, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

Voters 4 McCain would never vote 4 any other GOP candidate. It’s already over: O’billary landslide.

By November, the true nature of the Iraq War will finally be deciphered by one and all voters. The true cost will push 70% of the voters to O’billary.

Bush and Cheney will have to flea this country, and I know where there’s a dog’s patoot just beggin’ for fleas like that.

Hannity + Rush = HUSH. (but dont hush, rush, instead gush and turn McCain into mush, make the GOP blush, then kiss my tush, you fat fush.) .

By larry

February 7, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

I don’t know why McCain’s success is such a surprise to everyone. He has been dividing and conquering. He obviously realized long ago that he would never be the choice of the far right because of his choices in his private life, and the acrimony that would come his way when he brought the moderates, and more recently the independents into his corner. You republicans have been divided, and now McCain expects to conquer you with lies, and more empty promises. He can barely hide hide his glee as he has been doing it. Today if you can hold down your lunch he will tell you that Unac John will make it all better. I don’t know who is more pathetic, him or the conservatives who wind up swallowing it. He can’t give you you judges, or his base IE, the indies and moderates will bail on him. Reality chech, your party is now the “other democratic party”. Welcome to Rome, and McCain may well be the next Caesar

By jbmlaw

February 7, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

Dear John @ 9:16, I respectfully disagree. As regulars here know, I am vigorously pro-immigrant and oppose any numerical limitations on immigrants. I have grave doubts about Sen. McCain as the nominee of my party, for exactly the reasons I listed. I know it is a popular fiction on the left that immigration is “our” complaint with Mr. McCain; the problems are deeper and wider, and the history longer than last summer’s kafuffle.

Dear MidSouth @ 9:11, good morning to you also. As Senior Corporatist on this board, I look forward to the next round of our exchange of ideas.

Good morning Southern @ 9:22, please appreciate that my goal was not to inflict an unnecessary chill on a February morning. In your opening paragraph I respectfully believe you have erroneously conjoined three elements of the increasingly fractured Reagan coalition. You correctly note the existence of our “values” voters, and those utilitarians who magnify power and would do anything to re-elect any Republican. Most of us are secularists who appreciate the power of ideas, and the virtues of small government.

By JP

February 7, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Cosmo - I’m a Democrat making over $60k in a management level job, working 50-60 hours a week, who thinks the GOP platform is misguided at best.

Many of us can’t fall into your caricature of money grubbing liberals. I’m almost certain you knew that before now, but I’m sure you didn’t care.

By BIG DAWG

February 7, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

“Senator McCain is a rough and tumble fellow who was beaten and tortured for six years. He doesn’t bow down to anyone, including his physical tormentors in Hanoi or his verbal tormentors on the radio”

Excellent point Will! What has McCain in the lead and pretenders like Guilanni and Romney falling is straight talk and consistant positions.

Americans have been lied to for years by Clinton and Bush. McCain sponsered bills with Kennedy and stood to take the heat. He didn’t do as those phoney “pretenders” and be pro abortion, gun control and gay rights up until he decided to run for president, then have a “change of heart”. McCain has the toughness to make an unpopular decision and face America doing it.

Right wing talking heads and Christian “leaders” are crying because this is an election they can’t influence.

By John

February 7, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

If you think that McCain has divided the republican party, you ain’t seen nothing. Look at how Obama the guy that says he is the uniter has devided the democrat party. Blacks against whites, old against young, men against women, hispanics against blacks. This is the guy that was suppose to bring the republicans and the democrats together.

By Curious Observer

February 7, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

I marvel that the Republican party allowed itself to be hijacked by the far-right gang of haters. Here is a war hero who is able to accommodate and compromise with the people on the other side of the aisle (and perhaps break the stalemate now existing in legislation), and he is being discussed as the scum of the earth.

So go ahead and stay home on election day, idiots. Your kind has been utterly discredited by the administration of George W. Bush, who is destined to displace Garfield and Carter as the worst presidents in history. Is it any wonder that the moderate wing of your party and the independents no longer listen to you? How deeply in debt to China do we need to be, how many body bags need to arrive in Dover, and how stalled does the economy need to be before you start acknowledging that something is deeply wrong with your policies?

By Dennis

February 7, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Mr. Wooten writes, “The party needs a Newt Gingrich, somebody who offers fresh ideas based on putting individuals back in control of their lives — that is, in bringing about limited government by lessening dependence on it.”

Now here is a piece of journalistic hypocracy at its best, shading some issues and dodging others.

Let’s separate his two ideas and then reconnect them. Idea one is his lessening dependence on government.

Of course, he’s talking about financial dependence while ommitting that he supports a “trust us” dependence on the Bush administration (if not the Republican party) when it comes to illegal spying on Americans by the administration via the weakwilled telecome industry, or that we should “trust us” about the lies told getting us into the Iraq war.

Then, idea two, there is the issue of “putting individuals back in control of their lives — that is, in bringing about limited government by lessening dependence on it.”

But again, Mr. Wooten is dodging around. He is still talking about “lessening depencence [on government] by giving up social security for those who did not do well in the “real world”, or giving up necessary medical support if you “did not do well in the ‘real world.’” BUT… don’t give up your “trust us” dependence on the government to spy on you and your family and let’s continue to give your tax money to corporations to re-invest - outside of the country.

In short, Mr. Wooten picks and shades his “limited government by lessening dependence on it” according to the issue.

And isn’t it something how many of his and other conservatives issues are usually, if not mostly, about money. (As long as we conservatives have our money, the government can spy on us or take our lesser well-off children to war all it wants).

No, Mr. Wooten, our country doesn’t need “a Newt Gingrich, somebody who offers fresh ideas based on putting individuals back in control of their lives — that is, in bringing about limited government by lessening dependence on it.”

We’ve already had Mr. Gringrich. If he was the right guy, he’d have been president a long time ago. And, “surprise”, “the country” hasn’t missed him.

You don’t have to be a blind conservative not to see it, just an ignorant one to deny it.

By profit

February 7, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

I still do not like McInsane, but I am warming up a bit: McCain’s jokes about lawyers are heart warming. His latest, told on the campaign trail: How does a catfish differ from a lawyer (like JMB): One is a slimy, scum sucking, bottom dweller, and the other is a fish. Vote McInsane in 2008 and bash the lawyers.

By jbmlaw

February 7, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

Dear John @ 9:16, I respectfully disagree. As regulars here know, I am vigorously pro-immigrant and oppose any numerical limitations on immigrants. I have grave doubts about Sen. McCain as the nominee of my party, for exactly the reasons I listed. I know it is a popular fiction on the left that immigration is “our” complaint with Mr. McCain; the problems are deeper and wider, and the history longer than last summer’s kafuffle.

Dear MidSouth @ 9:11, good morning to you also. As Senior Corporatist on this board, I look forward to the next round of our exchange of ideas.

By mid-south philosopher

February 7, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

Will the Corporatists never stop. Here’s a full-bodied example of the lengths that the corporatists will go to earn their filthy lucre. At least this time someone is about to get crushed.

Bank continues to do business with tele-marketers that rip off customers

By GaVoter

February 7, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

Well, Jim. There is an easy answer to this problem of a divided party. Just a little logic and thinking outside the box will lead you to that answer. Glenn has all but given it away in some of his past posts.

We know that there are numerous “philosophies” buried under the Republican banner. We also know that we cannot reconcile all the differences. We must therefore be splintered. Yes, I say. Splinter this Glorious Old Party into pieces and let us live side-by-side in peace.

Now, let us get about the business at hand. Those favoring Glenn’s philosophy shall be known as the Radical Republicans — again. Do I have any takers for the Moderate Republican? How about undecided Republicans — they can be called Left-Right Republicans.

Now wasn’t that easy.

By jbmlaw

February 7, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

Dear Adam @ 9:36, the idea of Swifty McCain elaborating on Kelo brought an amused laugh to my morning. No, I’ll be content if he’ll just ask the question.

Dear Beaz @ 9:37, because Roe v Wade is not the problem, it is merely a symptom of the much larger problem. Many of our friends on the left think with their genitals and refuse to acknowledge that there are larger principles in Federal preclusion of the 50 legislatures, much worsened when five men in robes assume that power.

By deegee

February 7, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

“McCain has a big speech today, a “test” it’s being called. He’s speaking to conservative activists at the Conservative Political Action Conference. It’s not likely that he’ll be able to convince them in one speech.”

You wanna bet? The wheels are coming off of the conservative activist wagon. McCain is winning because of who he is and what he stands for, and they know it. McCain will agree to use some conservative buzz words, the activists will nod and reluctantly accept him. Rush will call off the dogs. The dittoheads will immediately heel to their master.

By OneForTheRoad

February 7, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

TW @ 9:36,

They need a rail gun. Now, there’s a man’s gun — something to really rail about.

By profit

February 7, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

UGAY recruits and coaches are so stupid that in times of crisis, it is all they can do to keep them selves from reverting to licking their own asses, animal like. Hey stupid UGAY spy, decrypt this “FF UU”.

By Barry Goldwater

February 7, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

No, beaz, actually they mean that they want a President who will “appoint strict-constructionist judges”. If you’ll take the trouble to learn what that phrase denotes, then instead of speculating as to what it may connote perhaps you’ll at least understand what its proponents see as the huge stakes at issue. Those stakes extend far beyond Roe.

And no, I don’t mean this in any condescending way; I’m simply urging a little investigatory empathy, preliminary to the formation of an opinion on the matter. Get inside their heads for a brief while, then make the call according to your lights. That’s what I’m suggesting.

On the back end of that, sure, it’s wise to consider how such battle cries get freighted with agenda-driven meanings. But the fight is over the integrity of the language we must use to do politics (our Job #1 in this republican democracy).

Then, give ‘em hell if you want to.

By Political Foreskin

February 7, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

That’s right, jbm, wooten, and midsouth, fall apart. Walk softly boys. The consternation in your voices is unmistakable. You’re effectively neutralized because you’ll acquiesce and rely on your estates to save you.

O’billary: Health care. Education. Infrastructure. Defense, not revenge. Fair tax codes. Balanced budgets. Amnesty for GOP ignoramants. Citizenship for all of Mexico and Canada.

America should be Mexicanadamerica. Dont you see? That’s what Davey Crocket was trying to do. That’s what Michael Moore wants. We can see their dream in our lifetime, if you’ll just listen to Rush Limbaugh destroy the GOP’s only chance for the white house.

Thank you, Ann Coulter.

By Dennis

February 7, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

By Netta February 7, 2008 8:55 AM “Let [the country] go down the toilet on the Democrat’s watch…”

It’s a little too late for that, don’t you think?

You don’t have to be a blind conservative not to see it, just an ignorant one to deny it.

By BS Aplenty

February 7, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Where have you gone, Newt Gingrich? a Republican Nation turns it’s lonely eyes to you..ooh, ooh, ooh,…

By Wendy73

February 7, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

“The Votes Are In: McCain may have a huge delegate lead but the race has been much closer on the ground. According to CBS News, McCain has won over 4.8 million votes cast so far while Romney has collected over 4.1 million and Huckabee just over 2.4 million. McCain owes a big thanks to Rudy Giuliani who helped engineer rules changes in New York and New Jersey to make them winner-take-all states. McCain won both on Tuesday.

The picture is different on the Democratic side. According to CBS News estimates, Hillary Clinton has a slim delegate lead over Barack Obama, 1,058 to 984 with super delegate estimates figured in. That difference mirrors the split in actual votes to date, with Clinton garnering 8,914,030 votes and Obama winning 8,392,514.”

By Save the Rollo 6

February 7, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

jbmlaw

This nation has a wonderful system of laws to regulate immigration. We welcome more legal immigrants yearly, and from more nations, than any other nation - including Mexico. That immigration system serves to maintain the quality of life that the existing citizenry have created (and of right ought be able to maintain) while giving opportunity to these emigres.

I fail to see how that immigration system ought now be set aside because a minor dictator & lawyer like youself believes “it should be so.” Pray tell, what other laws do you wish to set aside by your divine fiat.

Nobody elected you to anything counselor and for a very good reason.

By profit

February 7, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Newt Gingrich is all talk and no action: ask any of his wives, current and former. He is a short, fat, joke…..

By getalife

February 7, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

Please, the RW media will fall in line behind McInsane for the SC openings.

They are hoping Obama is the nom. so they can unleash on the poor guy.

Clinton has been attacked by the RW, corporate media and the left but is still winning.

Obama has not seen these level of attacks yet. I doubt he could handle it.

By GaVoter

February 7, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

Thanks for the numbers, Wendy73. Let’s see here. Clinton with 8.9 million, Obama with 8.4 million, and McCain, Romney, and Huckabee combined with 11.3 million. I’d say the more pressing business is to make sure the Republican voters increase enough to make up the difference. Based on these numbers, that’s 21% more Dems that got out to vote.

By Roy

February 7, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

Whoever posted this Thanks!! I have LMAO!!!! And it’s true!

“By Ann Coulter

February 7, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

It’s me, skeletor. John McCain is satan and he needs to be stopped. The best way to do this is to buy my new book “Why conservatives can’t think for themselves and need people like us to tell them what to do.” I know it will be a smashing success, like the Iraq war and the entire Bush presidency “

By Glenn

February 7, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

That’s a crack up, GaVoter, and yeah, it was easy!

The harder part for you will be to explain what you would want it to mean to be a principled moderate. (Very hard, I should think.)

So please do essay so to do. Damn the torpedoes, just let fly and take the fire. Some of us will be on our best behavior anyway, I’m guessing.

Two notes about “Radical Republicans”. First, our own Mr. Gingrich is one.

Second, for RR’s there is no box; the only agreed delimitating factor is RR himself (though stay tuned for more factors). Having said that, the very point is that for people like Gingrich and urztrooly, there ain’t no box. The gubmint is a metastasized necrotic mass that no Executive can see either whole or in detail. It is The Blob that Ate Smallville and mission-creeps its way to a theatre of operations near you, your family and treasure and most deeply held beliefs. It is one giant cockup. Hence restructuring. It all comes down to who is serious about restructuring (Gingrich and Moynihan were) and who is not (Wooten). If someone is willing to be, or is already, in earnest about restructuring, then all parties and ideologies and immutable characteristics and provenances—-truly—-are welcome. That’s what the first “R” means. (Et c’est tres 1867, oui?)

Dennis,

I’m all for Jim’s idea of a Newtonian to head the GOP—-as long as I get to characterize what a Newtonian is!

jbm,

McCain’s your man. He hates Kelo—-and she-ott, when that guy hates, he really hates—-and has said that he will seek a Constitutional Amendment if that’s what’s required to bring the Supremes around.

My own interest is in your using the decision as a test for candidacy. Let’s see what the Esquires Obama and Clinton[s] have to say about it, shall we? For the record, I think the construction itself is corrupt, not just the legal principles involved in Kelo.

[Newtonian 08]

By jbmlaw

February 7, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

Dear Rollo @ 10:37, “Pray tell, what other laws do you wish to set aside by your divine fiat.” Answer: all of ‘em. Of course, I make money by the mere presence of so many stupid laws, so making the country better would cost me personally.

By bernie

February 7, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

I guess that I may be considered a strong Ragan type. John McCain Is not a Ragan type, and I have told him so. There is no way that I would support him. I will not vote for him or any other Liberal (which he is). As they say a wolf in sheep’s clothing. The RNC may not like that many like myself choose to sit it out. It has happen before and will again. The silent majority will speak

By OneForTheRoad

February 7, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

Well, I guess we need to come up with some way to resolve this “trust” issue. Lie detectors could be used while the politicians face off against the undaunting examiners in front of a live audience. To make it more interesting, an enhanced lie detector, that I have just developed, could be used. I call it the TELD - or the Taser Enhanced Lie Detector. That should provide the audience with some reality TV style entertainment, don’t you think? Just imagine, if you will, your favorite personality, such as Ann Coulter or Wolf Blitzer, being asked a “Yes/No” question by John McCain or Hillary Clinton. Yes, the Twilight Zone can be a strange place.

By JK

February 7, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

It’s still the economy, stupid, but the economy has been trounced by de-regulation and this ill-advised, counter-productive, grossly-mismanaged, wet-dream-for-contractors WAR.

The people will have a clear choice in November: Vote D to stop the madness, bring the troops home, and restore some accountability, or Vote R for more war and more waste.

In spite of everything we’ve been through this decade, (and so much evidence to the contrary) I have faith that the American people will do the right thing (this year) and vote to end the war, not perpetuate it.

By profit

February 7, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

UGAY recruits and coaches are so stupid that in times of crisis, it is all they can do to keep them selves from reverting to licking their own asses, animal like. Hey stupid UGAY spy, decrypt this “FF UU”.

By charles corley

February 7, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

goooooood morning/ glenn you must live in a cave. to bring you up to date: john was trying to get out of the navy when he was shot down. the enemy had started shooting back and newt married his 26 yr old math teacher when he graduated from h.s. to dodge the draft and vietnam and then junked her when she was dying with cancer. it’s a shame larry f. is not running. he baited the trap with a million $$$ and caught newt, livingston and henry (his girl friends family called him hank) hyde. i wouldn’t worry about the judges because god’s justice is always perfect. if you plant beans you get beans and if you plant corn you get corn. this happens everytime and god is watching what you plant. come on down you sinners.

By Joe Bland

February 7, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

Talk radio was better back when it consisted mostly of Ludlow Porch, Hello Henry and Dr. Donna’s Medical Bag. And don’t forget Paul Randall Dickerson with the news.

By jbmlaw

February 7, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

Dear Glenn @ 10:55, my proposal of the Kelo test is sneakier than you infer. Of course it is a high profile left-side of the court victory, for the forces of big government over the little guy. The general public, as did the straight-talker, hated that decision, for visceral reasons even if they did not understand the constitutional arguments. Since that was such a clear split in the court, it could only be beneficial to our side to remind all of America what the democrats stand for.

Dear JK @ 11:19, I would be much surprised to see the American people surrendering in Iraq after expending so much effort, but there certainly is democrat precedent, so you could be right (or, actually, left.) Now that I think about the American people are unlikely to abandon the conservative view there; just as the left will never be right, so the right will never be left.

By Truth

February 7, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Netta…YOU are exactly the type of “conservative republican” that has destroyed the party. The McCain republicans are just taking it back where it rightfully belongs. And it is being taken back there in no uncertain terms this election cycle isn’t it Netta? Just be thankful Netta that now we have a candidate that may save the country from another Clinton administration. That was a lock before the resurgence of McCain. Thank God almighty that your brand of faux conservatism is dead.

By Jackie

February 7, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

The right wingers are now blaming the media for John McCain. Their contention is the media is pushing one candidate over another and the only reason McCain has been elected in those states with primaries is because the media favors him. This distorted fantasy and their “swift boat” tactics are not going to save them from the electoral tidal wave.

By Sri

February 7, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

Jim,

Talk-radio jocks are sounding like aging hippies — their hysteria is similar to the shrillness of MoveOn.org and DemocratsUnderground. Here’s what I think happened:

I say all this because I am a GOP-leaning supporter and was trying for all these months to take cues from any of the talk show hosts. No one preferred any one candidate over the others. Why are they crying wolf now? Also, the saddest and most despicable spectacle has been Ann Coulter. It makes us, those who are right of center, on par with Code Pink, PETA, etc on the hysteria meter. I always thought we were more mature and cerebral than those on the left. The events of the past few days have sadly proven me wrong. There have been voices like Michael Medved and even Speaker Gingrich who have advocated supporting McCain, in case he is the nominee. Some of the listeners who have called in the past few days have been nuttily ranting against McCain. There has been no rhyme or reason but just crazy ranting. Wasn’t that supposed to be the domain of the Air America crowd, Jim?

I have my major disagreements with Sen McCain but he is a much better choice than Sens Clinton or Obama. Is that what the Rev Dobson crowd wants? McCain is the more palatable choice, in the given pool of candidates (I’m assuming that Gov Romney is not going to make it, from this point onwards, post-Super Tuesday).

If talk radio had gonads enough to stand firmly behind one candidate (like Gov Romney) early in the race, they would not be crying sour grapes now. They tried to play diplomatic and are now crying because they did not get the candidate of their choice (Gov Romney). Rather than blame Sen McCain, how about pointing fingers at themselves?! I am an off-and-on listener of many of these shows (Rush, Hannity, Prager, Gallagher, etc) and franly, many of them are acting juvenile. They need to grow up!

By Tim

February 7, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

Glen @ 8:49

Glen, Newt would be done wrong over his personal life Just like Rudy??? This is the same guy that wanted to crush ” Dollar” Bill Clinton for His personal life. That’s the thing about those on the right, The whole do as I say not as I do thing is tired, and lame. You can’t expect policy to ever be the focus of these discussions until at least admit that your side made this acceptable.

By go get um

February 7, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

ronnie r was the president who signed the bill in 1986 that did away with tax deductions for interest on consumer loans (credit cards, car loans, 90 day notes) and gave us the equity loan which has bankrupt america, ronnie the working man’s friend. he was a lousy actor and a worse president. thank god cloning is against the law.

By Joe Bland

February 7, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

I and my WWII LST Commander father-in-law are eager and happy to cast ballots for John McCain.

By getalife

February 7, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

“WASHINGTON—Republican presidential candidate John McCain skipped a difficult Senate vote Wednesday on whether to make 20 million seniors and 250,000 disabled veterans eligible for rebate checks as part of a proposed economic stimulus package.”

It failed by 1 vote but McInsane is a failed leader. He should resign from the Senate and has missed all the votes while the Dem candidates have voted.

Voting gop and expecting something to change is the definition of insanity.

By John

February 7, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

The Hannity and Rush crowd spent too much time trying to destroy Hillary’s campaign by boosting Obama and let McCain get by to become the front runner of the republican party. Now they get a taste of their own medicine.

By