Hello, readers, and welcome to the first entry into Paul's Guide to Being an Effective Politician. In these writings, I take what I've learned in my experiences in political campaigns and display it for all to see, like a flasher of intelligence. Except I have a weblog, and not a trenchcoat. So, here we go.
Part I: Debating
The art of debate is millenia old, and the career of many a politician has been made on the answering of questions posed by the electorate. Of course, over the years, it has degraded into a series of softballs responded to by using soundbytes. So, here is a list of recommendations for any wannabe candidate entering a debate. Following these should help establish you as a no-nonsense, effective, and intelligent official.
*Stop thanking the debate locale - We get it, you're glad to be there. You don't have to tell us for a minute how wonderful some campus is, or how lovely some town is, or even that it's great that the audience is there. You're wasting valuble answer time. The campus sucks, the jerkwater town is just that, and the audience is there either because they get class credit, or it's a Tuesday night and nothing is on TV (or they hope they'll get on TV/some are actually interested). Save your thanks for the end.
*Use clear-cut facts as much as possible - Not enough politicians use these. If you're talking about gun control, you should mention that x% of all deaths in Y city are caused by guns. Then, you should cite where that data comes from. As a side note, that data should come from a reputable source, like the FBI or that city's police department, and if the data is printed, where someone can find it (when other people can read the same thing, they tend to believe you). Also, keep the facts as simple as possible. Your opponent can't argue with a percentage, and if he tries, then ask him if he's calling the Police Department a bunch of liars. Which leads to the next point...
*Don't be afraid to call out your opponent - Know as many facts as possible about whatever might be covered in your debate. Politicians will sometimes say really stupid things, things that can't possibly be true. When that happens, call shenanigans (when it's your turn to speak). Rebut their error by using point 2. Make your opponent look like an idiot! And be blunt about it. Don't say "I respectfully disagree..." or "I believe..." Just come out and say it: "You're wrong, Bill. Here's the fact..." or if your opponent flat-out lied, say "That's a lie, Bill." Again, refer to point 2. Real-life example (names changed to protect the innocent/not-so-innocent):
During a television interview between two candidates for a city office (let's call them Bill and Ted), the question of partisanship was raised. Bill claimed his party identification and the endorsements he sought. Ted claimed he was running a nonpartisan campaign and had not sought any endorsement. This, in fact, was a lie. Ted actively sought, and did not receive, the endorsement of a certain political party. Bill should have jumped on this "error" at the earliest possible opportunity.
*Stop being scared of the constituent - Constituents sometimes ask stupid questions. Whatever you do, don't dismiss the question. Answer the question as bluntly as you can. If the constituent attacks you for a decision you made or a policy you stand for, defend yourself and do not apologize. Often, the constituent doesn't have a remote clue about what they're talking about. Remind the constituent of their own obligations to society, how government can't do everything. Parents have to parent, teachers have to teach. Don't hesitate to correct the constituent if they're wrong. Even if they don't agree with you, they'll be glad you answered them truthfully.
If you follow these simple points, I guarantee that you will win a debate, and probably gain the respect of many voters. Stay tuned for more of Paul's Guide to Being an Effective Politician!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
In Adhevo Veritas: Originally Published March 7, 2009
There's an old saying, "in vino veritas" - in wine, there is truth. I believe in the saying, "in adhevo veritas." In comedy, there is truth. This past Friday, Bill Maher issued a new rule entitled "Boy Blunder," discussing the ridiculousness of Republicans attacking "big government." I've copied the routine below for all to enjoy and think about.
Republicans must stop pitting the American people against the government. Now last week we heard a speech from future Republican leader and present awkward douchebag Bobby Jindal. Now, Bobby said that government is lame, but Americans can do anything. And he kept repeating it. Americans can do anything. Americans can do anything. And then he clicked his heels and poof- there was just a cobra! I kid, Bobby, oh please! He's actually quite charming in a Revenge-of-the-Nerds sort of way. And he began his speech last week with a story every immigrant tells about going to an American grocery store for the first time and being overwhelmed with the endless variety on the shelves. And this was just a 7-11, wait 'til he sees a Safeway! (You're wounded, I know. I'll make it up to you after the show).
The thing is that endless variety only exists because Americans pay taxes to a government, which maintains roads, irrigates fields, maintains the electric grid, and everything else that enables the modern American supermarket to carry forty-seven varieties of frozen breakfast pastry. Of course it's easy to tear government down. Ronald Reagan used to say the nine most terrifying words in the English language were, "I am from the government and I'm here to help." But that was before, "I am Sarah Palin, now show me the launch codes."
You know the stimulus package was attacked as typical "tax-and-spend." You know, like repairing bridges is typical left-wing stuff. "Ooh, there the liberals go again, always wanting to get across the river!" Folks, the People are the government. The first responders to a fire, that's the government. The ranger who shoos pedophiles out of the park restroom, that's the government. The postman who delivers your porn. I mean, how stupid is it when people say, "Oh yeah, that's all we need- the federal government telling Detroit how to make cars and Wells Fargo how to run a bank. You want them to look like the post office?"
Yeah, actually. I mean...You mean the place that takes the note in my hand in L.A. on Monday and gives it to my sister in New Jersey on Wednesday for forty-two cents? Well let me be the first to say I would be thrilled if America's healthcare system was anywhere near as functional as the post office. Truth is, recent years have made me much more wary of government doing the opposite, of stepping aside and letting unregulated private enterprise run things it is plainly too greedy to trust with, like Wall Street, like rebuilding Iraq. Like the way Republicans always frame the healthcare debate by saying, "healthcare decisions should be made by doctors and patients, not government bureaucrats," leaving out the fact that health decisions aren't made by doctors, patients, or bureaucrats. They're made by insurance companies. Insurance companies, which are a lot like hospital gowns- chances are, your ass isn't covered.
All right, thank you folks.
Republicans must stop pitting the American people against the government. Now last week we heard a speech from future Republican leader and present awkward douchebag Bobby Jindal. Now, Bobby said that government is lame, but Americans can do anything. And he kept repeating it. Americans can do anything. Americans can do anything. And then he clicked his heels and poof- there was just a cobra! I kid, Bobby, oh please! He's actually quite charming in a Revenge-of-the-Nerds sort of way. And he began his speech last week with a story every immigrant tells about going to an American grocery store for the first time and being overwhelmed with the endless variety on the shelves. And this was just a 7-11, wait 'til he sees a Safeway! (You're wounded, I know. I'll make it up to you after the show).
The thing is that endless variety only exists because Americans pay taxes to a government, which maintains roads, irrigates fields, maintains the electric grid, and everything else that enables the modern American supermarket to carry forty-seven varieties of frozen breakfast pastry. Of course it's easy to tear government down. Ronald Reagan used to say the nine most terrifying words in the English language were, "I am from the government and I'm here to help." But that was before, "I am Sarah Palin, now show me the launch codes."
You know the stimulus package was attacked as typical "tax-and-spend." You know, like repairing bridges is typical left-wing stuff. "Ooh, there the liberals go again, always wanting to get across the river!" Folks, the People are the government. The first responders to a fire, that's the government. The ranger who shoos pedophiles out of the park restroom, that's the government. The postman who delivers your porn. I mean, how stupid is it when people say, "Oh yeah, that's all we need- the federal government telling Detroit how to make cars and Wells Fargo how to run a bank. You want them to look like the post office?"
Yeah, actually. I mean...You mean the place that takes the note in my hand in L.A. on Monday and gives it to my sister in New Jersey on Wednesday for forty-two cents? Well let me be the first to say I would be thrilled if America's healthcare system was anywhere near as functional as the post office. Truth is, recent years have made me much more wary of government doing the opposite, of stepping aside and letting unregulated private enterprise run things it is plainly too greedy to trust with, like Wall Street, like rebuilding Iraq. Like the way Republicans always frame the healthcare debate by saying, "healthcare decisions should be made by doctors and patients, not government bureaucrats," leaving out the fact that health decisions aren't made by doctors, patients, or bureaucrats. They're made by insurance companies. Insurance companies, which are a lot like hospital gowns- chances are, your ass isn't covered.
All right, thank you folks.
Stimulus plan benefits collegiate ambitions: Originally Published February 26, 2009
College Democrats highly encourage college students to take advantage of the extra funds the stimulus plan provides for College programs.
The recent passage and signature into law of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 signifies a movement in the right direction for our nation. Our country is taking the first step to rebuild our economy, revitalize our financial system and restore faith in the American promise. Although the ARRA’s passing took place with much struggle between Democrats and Republicans, with the law now in effect, it is our responsibility as American citizens, and as the next generation of political leaders, to make the most of the stimulus act.
As students, we have a special place in ARRA. Although national politics does not always directly effect students on the UW-Madison campus, the ARRA will have a direct and positive impact on UW students, especially those from lower-income families. ARRA will provide monetary resources for students pursuing any field of study by increasing the maximum Pell Grant by $500. Furthermore, it will provide an additional $100 million to higher education.
Agriculture students will benefit from over $200 million for infrastructure, grants and programs. Ecology majors will be pleased to learn over $1.6 billion will be spent on a range of ecological programs, including the Forest Service, the National Park System and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife program. The National Science Foundation will receive $2.5 billion for research and related activities, $200 million of which goes directly to modernize academic facilities and an additional $500 million for research equipment and educational resources. History majors like me should be giddy over the $15 million going toward the National Park Service historic preservation fund and $25 million toward Smithsonian facilities.
Perhaps the real winners are engineering students, who will see hundreds of billions of dollars going toward construction in all departments, including energy research, geological surveys, health-care updates and research funding. Civil, electrical, biomedical, mechanical and other engineers will find an almost inconceivable bevy of projects and opportunities in the coming years, as America works to revamp its infrastructure and revitalize the economy.
Despite the grave situation and difficult economic times in which we find ourselves, we students must adopt a proactive approach if we are to take full advantage of the stimulus package. We need to talk to our professors, our employers and our state representatives and tell them our ideas. If the past presidential election has taught us anything, it is that young people and students must become involved on more than simply a cursory level and that real engagement begins—not ends—in the voting booth.
The stimulus package is not so much a tool to stimulate the economy, but a catalyst, a means of inspiration, for propelling the American people into taking action and making our country better. The time for waiting for someone else to do it is over. We have to be the change we seek. Come check out the College Democrats’ Facebook group or attend a meeting and learn how to become more involved in your local community.
(Post-Fact: For the record, I hate the second to last sentence. I find it really overused and incredibly corny.)
The recent passage and signature into law of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 signifies a movement in the right direction for our nation. Our country is taking the first step to rebuild our economy, revitalize our financial system and restore faith in the American promise. Although the ARRA’s passing took place with much struggle between Democrats and Republicans, with the law now in effect, it is our responsibility as American citizens, and as the next generation of political leaders, to make the most of the stimulus act.
As students, we have a special place in ARRA. Although national politics does not always directly effect students on the UW-Madison campus, the ARRA will have a direct and positive impact on UW students, especially those from lower-income families. ARRA will provide monetary resources for students pursuing any field of study by increasing the maximum Pell Grant by $500. Furthermore, it will provide an additional $100 million to higher education.
Agriculture students will benefit from over $200 million for infrastructure, grants and programs. Ecology majors will be pleased to learn over $1.6 billion will be spent on a range of ecological programs, including the Forest Service, the National Park System and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife program. The National Science Foundation will receive $2.5 billion for research and related activities, $200 million of which goes directly to modernize academic facilities and an additional $500 million for research equipment and educational resources. History majors like me should be giddy over the $15 million going toward the National Park Service historic preservation fund and $25 million toward Smithsonian facilities.
Perhaps the real winners are engineering students, who will see hundreds of billions of dollars going toward construction in all departments, including energy research, geological surveys, health-care updates and research funding. Civil, electrical, biomedical, mechanical and other engineers will find an almost inconceivable bevy of projects and opportunities in the coming years, as America works to revamp its infrastructure and revitalize the economy.
Despite the grave situation and difficult economic times in which we find ourselves, we students must adopt a proactive approach if we are to take full advantage of the stimulus package. We need to talk to our professors, our employers and our state representatives and tell them our ideas. If the past presidential election has taught us anything, it is that young people and students must become involved on more than simply a cursory level and that real engagement begins—not ends—in the voting booth.
The stimulus package is not so much a tool to stimulate the economy, but a catalyst, a means of inspiration, for propelling the American people into taking action and making our country better. The time for waiting for someone else to do it is over. We have to be the change we seek. Come check out the College Democrats’ Facebook group or attend a meeting and learn how to become more involved in your local community.
(Post-Fact: For the record, I hate the second to last sentence. I find it really overused and incredibly corny.)
Congress must set aside differences, solve crisis: Originally Published October 2, 2008
Congress must pass solution to economic crisis before it hits Main Street
On Monday, the Dow Jones experienced its worst drop in history, plummeting 777 points. This freefall was the result of the failure of the “Bailout Bill” in the House of Representatives. Although there were various problems with this bill, there was an understanding between Democrats and Republicans that inaction was far more disastrous for the stock market and the economy at large. Especially disappointing were the spiteful partisan attacks that came from both sides and the representatives who voted based on their re-election odds.
Let me be clear, I am a strong Democrat, but I believe both sides are at fault for the economic crisis. Congress has become increasingly divisive since 1994. While that might make for exciting elections, it is horrible for the American people. Now is the time for Democrats and Republicans to come together and find a true compromise that assists financial institutions, but also provides strong oversight and protection for the average citizen. The era of deregulation and the golden parachute must end, and our representatives need to understand that concept.
Deregulation, which began in the 1990s and continued through the second Bush administration, allowed corporations to take irresponsible actions in the name of profit, which ultimately harmed both the businesses and the public. Deregulation is short sighted and is ultimately bad for the economy and the country.
We must also limit the golden parachute, which is an agreement between a company and executives specifying benefits the executive will get if fired. While there are positives to the contract, mostly dealing with job retention and company takeover, the parachute can be exploited. For example, Carly Fiorina was CEO and chairperson of Hewlett-Packard. During her tenure, HP’s performance plummeted and thousands of employees lost their jobs. As a reward, Fiorina was given a $21-million severance deal. Executives who send companies into ruin should never receive these ridiculously lucrative deals while other employees lose their jobs.
If these large banks and financial institutions fail, there will be enormous ramifications for Main Street. People with a pension, a 401(k), or stocks will suffer. Local banks will go under and be bought by larger companies. Even the holiday season may be in danger as consumer confidence continues to drop and many stores may suffer as a result.
What’s worse, now the majority of banking transactions are overseen by three companies: Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup. Should anything happen to one of these companies, it could be disastrous for the millions of people with savings accounts, checking accounts, loans or college funds.
If these economic woes continue without Congressional intervention, it will be Main Street, not Wall Street that will pay the price. We need to tell our elected officials that we are sick and tired of waiting for a solution. Congress needed to act yesterday to solve the economic crisis, but if they don’t act today, we can’t expect much of a tomorrow.
On Monday, the Dow Jones experienced its worst drop in history, plummeting 777 points. This freefall was the result of the failure of the “Bailout Bill” in the House of Representatives. Although there were various problems with this bill, there was an understanding between Democrats and Republicans that inaction was far more disastrous for the stock market and the economy at large. Especially disappointing were the spiteful partisan attacks that came from both sides and the representatives who voted based on their re-election odds.
Let me be clear, I am a strong Democrat, but I believe both sides are at fault for the economic crisis. Congress has become increasingly divisive since 1994. While that might make for exciting elections, it is horrible for the American people. Now is the time for Democrats and Republicans to come together and find a true compromise that assists financial institutions, but also provides strong oversight and protection for the average citizen. The era of deregulation and the golden parachute must end, and our representatives need to understand that concept.
Deregulation, which began in the 1990s and continued through the second Bush administration, allowed corporations to take irresponsible actions in the name of profit, which ultimately harmed both the businesses and the public. Deregulation is short sighted and is ultimately bad for the economy and the country.
We must also limit the golden parachute, which is an agreement between a company and executives specifying benefits the executive will get if fired. While there are positives to the contract, mostly dealing with job retention and company takeover, the parachute can be exploited. For example, Carly Fiorina was CEO and chairperson of Hewlett-Packard. During her tenure, HP’s performance plummeted and thousands of employees lost their jobs. As a reward, Fiorina was given a $21-million severance deal. Executives who send companies into ruin should never receive these ridiculously lucrative deals while other employees lose their jobs.
If these large banks and financial institutions fail, there will be enormous ramifications for Main Street. People with a pension, a 401(k), or stocks will suffer. Local banks will go under and be bought by larger companies. Even the holiday season may be in danger as consumer confidence continues to drop and many stores may suffer as a result.
What’s worse, now the majority of banking transactions are overseen by three companies: Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup. Should anything happen to one of these companies, it could be disastrous for the millions of people with savings accounts, checking accounts, loans or college funds.
If these economic woes continue without Congressional intervention, it will be Main Street, not Wall Street that will pay the price. We need to tell our elected officials that we are sick and tired of waiting for a solution. Congress needed to act yesterday to solve the economic crisis, but if they don’t act today, we can’t expect much of a tomorrow.
Some students, low-income residents may be stripped of their rights: Originally Published May 1, 2008
The recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in Crawford v. Marion County Election Board is not much of a surprise. The decision upheld an Indiana law requiring voters to have photo IDs “issued by the United States or the state of Indiana” in order to vote. The Indiana state Legislature passed the law along strict partisan lines, and it was upheld by lower court judges with a recognized politically conservative leaning. The Supreme Court’s decision also fell along political lines — the six judges in the majority were nominated by Republican presidents, the three dissenters by Bill Clinton (except for Justice Souter). However, it is not proper to accuse the justices of partisanship. Instead, I will focus on the ramifications of the Indiana law. The law, as it stands, makes it difficult for particular members of society to cast their vote, including the elderly, those living below the poverty level and college students.
In order to obtain a state-issued photo ID, applicants must provide a birth certificate and another form of identification, such as a lease or utility bill. This is a difficult task for the elderly, who may not have birth certificates or a way to access them, especially if they were born in another state. The homeless, who may have their birth certificate, will not have an address to put on the ID, let alone a lease or bill to prove their residence. In the case of the indigent, it may be economically impossible to obtain their certificate — Indiana requires a $3 to $12 processing fee. In rare cases, those who are religiously forbidden from having their photograph taken are barred from having a photo ID. The Supreme Court may find it acceptable for certain people to fall through the cracks and lose their right to vote, but I find it abhorrent and un-American. There is also one group of people whose situation was not addressed by the Supreme Court — the out-of-state student vote.
Indiana universities have one of the highest numbers of out-of-state students in the country, and the highest in Midwest. Out-of-state students spend more than half the year living in Indiana, and they meet all the requirements of residency in order to vote in the state. Unfortunately, thanks to the new voter ID law, the vast majority of the students will be unable to vote because most out-of-state students, strangely enough, do not hold Indiana ID cards or drivers’ licenses. Also, many students who are not from Indiana have little reason to change their state of origin on their ID. Students can lose scholarship awards from their home state or have problems with their health insurance if they are covered under their parents’ policies.
Even fewer students own federal forms of identification, such as passports, and may elect to keep them at home. Even if an out-of-state student wanted to get an Indiana ID, the fact that a student’s residence often changes from year to year, (from the dorms to an apartment, for example), makes acquiring an Indiana ID impractical.
Never mind that the student vote can change the results of an election, as it did here in Wisconsin in 2000 and 2004. Never mind that the people most affected by the Supreme Court’s decision tend to vote Democratic, and the bill was written and passed solely by Republicans. Never mind that getting a state ID is time-consuming for students and often impossible for the elderly, poor or homeless. Indiana is protecting voters and the integrity of elections, and if a few thousand Democratic-leaning voters suddenly can’t cast a ballot on Election Day 2008, so be it. I understand and respect Indiana’s obligation to prevent voter fraud. I simply disagree with the overtly partisan tactics the state now employs to do so. Such schemes make me appreciate that I go to school in Wisconsin, where I can easily vote as an out-of-state student.
Wisconsin must respect the rights of its young voters who, through enrollment in schools across the state, consider Wisconsin their home and choose to exercise their right to vote here. The Indiana voter ID law is not an example to be followed.
(Post-Fact: In the end, I was proved correct, as a group of Indiana nuns were barred from voting because they had no identification that met the law's standards.)
In order to obtain a state-issued photo ID, applicants must provide a birth certificate and another form of identification, such as a lease or utility bill. This is a difficult task for the elderly, who may not have birth certificates or a way to access them, especially if they were born in another state. The homeless, who may have their birth certificate, will not have an address to put on the ID, let alone a lease or bill to prove their residence. In the case of the indigent, it may be economically impossible to obtain their certificate — Indiana requires a $3 to $12 processing fee. In rare cases, those who are religiously forbidden from having their photograph taken are barred from having a photo ID. The Supreme Court may find it acceptable for certain people to fall through the cracks and lose their right to vote, but I find it abhorrent and un-American. There is also one group of people whose situation was not addressed by the Supreme Court — the out-of-state student vote.
Indiana universities have one of the highest numbers of out-of-state students in the country, and the highest in Midwest. Out-of-state students spend more than half the year living in Indiana, and they meet all the requirements of residency in order to vote in the state. Unfortunately, thanks to the new voter ID law, the vast majority of the students will be unable to vote because most out-of-state students, strangely enough, do not hold Indiana ID cards or drivers’ licenses. Also, many students who are not from Indiana have little reason to change their state of origin on their ID. Students can lose scholarship awards from their home state or have problems with their health insurance if they are covered under their parents’ policies.
Even fewer students own federal forms of identification, such as passports, and may elect to keep them at home. Even if an out-of-state student wanted to get an Indiana ID, the fact that a student’s residence often changes from year to year, (from the dorms to an apartment, for example), makes acquiring an Indiana ID impractical.
Never mind that the student vote can change the results of an election, as it did here in Wisconsin in 2000 and 2004. Never mind that the people most affected by the Supreme Court’s decision tend to vote Democratic, and the bill was written and passed solely by Republicans. Never mind that getting a state ID is time-consuming for students and often impossible for the elderly, poor or homeless. Indiana is protecting voters and the integrity of elections, and if a few thousand Democratic-leaning voters suddenly can’t cast a ballot on Election Day 2008, so be it. I understand and respect Indiana’s obligation to prevent voter fraud. I simply disagree with the overtly partisan tactics the state now employs to do so. Such schemes make me appreciate that I go to school in Wisconsin, where I can easily vote as an out-of-state student.
Wisconsin must respect the rights of its young voters who, through enrollment in schools across the state, consider Wisconsin their home and choose to exercise their right to vote here. The Indiana voter ID law is not an example to be followed.
(Post-Fact: In the end, I was proved correct, as a group of Indiana nuns were barred from voting because they had no identification that met the law's standards.)
Obama-Biden: Originally Published August 23, 2008
For those of you who are living under a rock, Barack Obama has selected Joe Biden to be his VP candidate. I, for one, believe this to be an excellent choice. Many may not know this, but I decided early on in the primary season that if Obama didn't run, I would work for Biden's campaign (true story!) I'm very excited for this pick for a variety of reasons, including his experience, his respect among the voters, and his excellent speaking skills (if it does sometimes get him in a little trouble, but hey- it's Joe!)
I won't go too long into this, but I've posted his biographical timeline below, courtesy of http://biden.senate.gov/senator/timeline/, just so people can get a good sense of who this man is and where he comes from. After all, he's going to be the next vice president. I also wouldn't mind hearing everyone else's thoughts on this selection, so comment away.
•November 20, 1942: Born in Scranton, Pennsylvania, the first of Joe and Jean Biden's four children.
•Summer 1953: Biden family moves from Scranton to Brookview neighborhood in Claymont, Delaware.
•September 1957: Joe enrolls at Archmere Academy.
•June 1965: Joe graduates from the University of Delaware with a double major in History and Political Science and enrolls in Syracuse University Law School.
•August 27, 1966: Joe marries the former Neilia Hunter.
•June 1968: After graduating from law school, Joe begins work as a trial attorney at a law firm in Wilmington, Delaware and serves as a public defender.
•February 3, 1969: Birth of Joe and Neilia's first child, Joseph R. "Beau" Biden, III
•February 4, 1970: Birth of Joe and Neilia's second child, Hunter.
•November, 1970: Elected to New Castle County Council.
•November 8, 1971: Birth of third child, Naomi Christina.
•November, 1972: Joe elected as Delaware's U.S. Senator, beating an incumbent Republican. At age 29, Joe was the 5th-youngest U.S. Senator ever.
•December 18, 1972: Joe's wife and three children are in an automobile accident while Christmas shopping. Neilia and Naomi suffer fatal injuries, while Beau and Hunter are critically injured but make full recoveries.
•January 5, 1973: After consistent lobbying by Hubert Humphrey and Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield urging him not to resign, Joe is sworn in to the United States Senate at Beau and Hunter's bedside in Wilmington, Delaware.
•January, 1975: Joe becomes a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, which he later chairs.
•June 17, 1977: Joe marries Jill Tracy Jacobs, a school teacher.
•January, 1977: Joe becomes a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, which he later chairs from 1987 to 1994.
•November, 1978: Wins reelection to U.S. Senate.
•June 8, 1981: Birth of Joe and Jill's daughter, Ashley.
•November, 1984: Re-elected to U.S. Senate.
•June 9, 1987: Announces candidacy for the 1988 Democratic Nomination for President of the United States.
•February 11, 1988: Two aneurysms are diagnosed in Joe's brain and he undergoes successful emergency surgery.
•November, 1990: Wins re-election to U.S. Senate.
•September, 1991: Joe begins teaching constitutional law as an adjunct professor at Widener University Law School.
•November, 1996: Re-elected to U.S. Senate.
•May 11, 1999: Joe casts 10,000th vote on the Senate floor.
•November, 2002: Wins reelection to U.S. Senate.
•January 31, 2007: Joe announces his bid for the 2008 Democratic Nomination for President of the United States.
•August 1, 2007: Joe releases his memoir, "Promises to Keep: On Life and Politics."
I won't go too long into this, but I've posted his biographical timeline below, courtesy of http://biden.senate.gov/senator/timeline/, just so people can get a good sense of who this man is and where he comes from. After all, he's going to be the next vice president. I also wouldn't mind hearing everyone else's thoughts on this selection, so comment away.
•November 20, 1942: Born in Scranton, Pennsylvania, the first of Joe and Jean Biden's four children.
•Summer 1953: Biden family moves from Scranton to Brookview neighborhood in Claymont, Delaware.
•September 1957: Joe enrolls at Archmere Academy.
•June 1965: Joe graduates from the University of Delaware with a double major in History and Political Science and enrolls in Syracuse University Law School.
•August 27, 1966: Joe marries the former Neilia Hunter.
•June 1968: After graduating from law school, Joe begins work as a trial attorney at a law firm in Wilmington, Delaware and serves as a public defender.
•February 3, 1969: Birth of Joe and Neilia's first child, Joseph R. "Beau" Biden, III
•February 4, 1970: Birth of Joe and Neilia's second child, Hunter.
•November, 1970: Elected to New Castle County Council.
•November 8, 1971: Birth of third child, Naomi Christina.
•November, 1972: Joe elected as Delaware's U.S. Senator, beating an incumbent Republican. At age 29, Joe was the 5th-youngest U.S. Senator ever.
•December 18, 1972: Joe's wife and three children are in an automobile accident while Christmas shopping. Neilia and Naomi suffer fatal injuries, while Beau and Hunter are critically injured but make full recoveries.
•January 5, 1973: After consistent lobbying by Hubert Humphrey and Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield urging him not to resign, Joe is sworn in to the United States Senate at Beau and Hunter's bedside in Wilmington, Delaware.
•January, 1975: Joe becomes a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, which he later chairs.
•June 17, 1977: Joe marries Jill Tracy Jacobs, a school teacher.
•January, 1977: Joe becomes a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, which he later chairs from 1987 to 1994.
•November, 1978: Wins reelection to U.S. Senate.
•June 8, 1981: Birth of Joe and Jill's daughter, Ashley.
•November, 1984: Re-elected to U.S. Senate.
•June 9, 1987: Announces candidacy for the 1988 Democratic Nomination for President of the United States.
•February 11, 1988: Two aneurysms are diagnosed in Joe's brain and he undergoes successful emergency surgery.
•November, 1990: Wins re-election to U.S. Senate.
•September, 1991: Joe begins teaching constitutional law as an adjunct professor at Widener University Law School.
•November, 1996: Re-elected to U.S. Senate.
•May 11, 1999: Joe casts 10,000th vote on the Senate floor.
•November, 2002: Wins reelection to U.S. Senate.
•January 31, 2007: Joe announces his bid for the 2008 Democratic Nomination for President of the United States.
•August 1, 2007: Joe releases his memoir, "Promises to Keep: On Life and Politics."
In Memorium: Originally Published June 14, 2008
I’d like to take this moment to write a little something about Tim Russert. As many of you know, Tim passed away yesterday afternoon at the age of 58, after collapsing at the NBC offices from a heart attack. Russert was the D.C. Bureau Chief for NBC, as well as the host and moderator of Meet the Press, television’s longest-running show, and he himself was its longest-serving host. Many of us really got to see him at his peak during this recent primary election cycle. After working in politics with Daniel Moynihan and Mario Cuomo for some years, Tim joined NBC and became its best political correspondent. His experiences, as well as his natural talent and innate intelligence led to sharp, accurate predictions and analyses, making the complicated world of politics accessible and understandable.
In this day where infotainment is the norm, where the news is often fraught with useless drivel about celebrity arrests and water-skiing squirrels, Tim was a voice of clear, objective journalism. He was never there to elicit a gaffe from politicians or pundits, but to make those people accountable for their words and what they meant. We sometimes forget that this is the purpose of the media; to uncover the truth and story behind an event, not to make the event itself. Tim Russert was the epitome of what political reporting could be, and should be.
To replace him is impossible; I do not believe that we will see a reporter of Russert’s ability, drive, intellect, or personality, or one who loves what they do so much, within the majority of my lifetime. However, we would do a great disservice to his memory if we did not carry on his lessons. It is now up to us to ask the tough questions and hold people accountable for their words, our Republican opponents and our Democratic allies both. If this country is to be the best it can be, we must always ask the difficult questions, we must always get the facts. Tim Russert would expect no less.
On behalf of the College Democrats of Wisconsin, I express my deepest sympathies to the Russert family, and his friends and associates at NBC and in the general media.
In this day where infotainment is the norm, where the news is often fraught with useless drivel about celebrity arrests and water-skiing squirrels, Tim was a voice of clear, objective journalism. He was never there to elicit a gaffe from politicians or pundits, but to make those people accountable for their words and what they meant. We sometimes forget that this is the purpose of the media; to uncover the truth and story behind an event, not to make the event itself. Tim Russert was the epitome of what political reporting could be, and should be.
To replace him is impossible; I do not believe that we will see a reporter of Russert’s ability, drive, intellect, or personality, or one who loves what they do so much, within the majority of my lifetime. However, we would do a great disservice to his memory if we did not carry on his lessons. It is now up to us to ask the tough questions and hold people accountable for their words, our Republican opponents and our Democratic allies both. If this country is to be the best it can be, we must always ask the difficult questions, we must always get the facts. Tim Russert would expect no less.
On behalf of the College Democrats of Wisconsin, I express my deepest sympathies to the Russert family, and his friends and associates at NBC and in the general media.
Money Well Spent?: Originally Published June 1, 2008
Just to share a quick factoid, courtesy of the National Priorities Project. For the 2007 fiscal year, the good taxpayers of the 2nd Congressional District (WI, of course) will provide $290 million for the war in Iraq. Had we not gotten into this fine mess, that money could have gone to pay for these (the following are ORs, not ANDs):
•Health care for 186,977 people for one year
•6,491 police/firefighters/EMT for one year
•4,785 arts and music teachers for one year
•College scholarships worth just over $6,700 for 43,117 students for one year
•2,419 affordable housing units
•Health care for 223,186 children for one year
•A place in the Head Start Program for 43,675 children
•5,059 elementary school students
So, think about it. What do we gain from the war in Iraq? What is the real cost?
•Health care for 186,977 people for one year
•6,491 police/firefighters/EMT for one year
•4,785 arts and music teachers for one year
•College scholarships worth just over $6,700 for 43,117 students for one year
•2,419 affordable housing units
•Health care for 223,186 children for one year
•A place in the Head Start Program for 43,675 children
•5,059 elementary school students
So, think about it. What do we gain from the war in Iraq? What is the real cost?
"Well we got no choice, all the girls and boys...": Originally Published May 15, 2008
Hey everyone--
No major political issue here. I just wanted to take the time to wish everyone an excellent and carefree summer. Enjoy it, because when you all come back in the fall, we're going to have a load of work to do to elect a Democrat to the White House in November!
There will still be blog posts here throughout the summer, and I might even write one or two myself, so keep checking!
I'd also like to say congratulations to our seniors, and on behalf of the College Dems, we wish you all the very best of luck in all your endeavors.
Have a fantastic summer, and to steal a line from my other major affiliation:
We never really say goodbye. We'll see you real soon, and ON WISCONSIN!!
No major political issue here. I just wanted to take the time to wish everyone an excellent and carefree summer. Enjoy it, because when you all come back in the fall, we're going to have a load of work to do to elect a Democrat to the White House in November!
There will still be blog posts here throughout the summer, and I might even write one or two myself, so keep checking!
I'd also like to say congratulations to our seniors, and on behalf of the College Dems, we wish you all the very best of luck in all your endeavors.
Have a fantastic summer, and to steal a line from my other major affiliation:
We never really say goodbye. We'll see you real soon, and ON WISCONSIN!!
PCF-HRC2008: Originally Published February 20, 2008
So, I'm perusing DailyKos today (yeah, I know, call me out on that), when a post catches my eye. Entitled "The Clinton 527". It cites this ABC blog entry for its source: http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalpunch/2008/02/new-pro-clinton.html
Essentially, the American Leadership Project (ALP) is established to attack Senator Obama, with a concentration of ads in Ohio. While not attacking the senator by name, the ads mention "if speeches could solve problems", which is a constant line of thought seen in many of Hillary's stumpings, especially recently.
ALP has a goal to raise $10 million by the end of next week, which is pretty much a $10 million donation of sorts to the Clinton campaign.
Barack and John Edwards had 527s formed in their favor earlier in this primary race, and both asked that those 527s disband, remembering the "Swiftboat Veterans for Truth" that helped sink Kerry's campaign run. The question to be asked is if Hillary will do the same. Will Hillary Clinton ask ALP to disband?
Now, most people who read this blog are pretty sure of who I support for Democratic candidate. I don't see Senator Clinton asking to disband this 527. She needs a March 4th victory to keep her campaign afloat, and I sense that she may be just desperate enough to use whatever resource she can get, even if that resource is one as disdainful and suspicious as a 527.
My questions to you, the reader, are these:
Will Hillary ask ALP to disband, and why or why not?
What are the ramifications for the Democratic Party if this 527 is allowed to exist?
Essentially, the American Leadership Project (ALP) is established to attack Senator Obama, with a concentration of ads in Ohio. While not attacking the senator by name, the ads mention "if speeches could solve problems", which is a constant line of thought seen in many of Hillary's stumpings, especially recently.
ALP has a goal to raise $10 million by the end of next week, which is pretty much a $10 million donation of sorts to the Clinton campaign.
Barack and John Edwards had 527s formed in their favor earlier in this primary race, and both asked that those 527s disband, remembering the "Swiftboat Veterans for Truth" that helped sink Kerry's campaign run. The question to be asked is if Hillary will do the same. Will Hillary Clinton ask ALP to disband?
Now, most people who read this blog are pretty sure of who I support for Democratic candidate. I don't see Senator Clinton asking to disband this 527. She needs a March 4th victory to keep her campaign afloat, and I sense that she may be just desperate enough to use whatever resource she can get, even if that resource is one as disdainful and suspicious as a 527.
My questions to you, the reader, are these:
Will Hillary ask ALP to disband, and why or why not?
What are the ramifications for the Democratic Party if this 527 is allowed to exist?
Spot of Texas Tea, Guv'nor?: Originially Published November 21, 2007
As I was driving home with my dad for this short break, I brought up the news item that oil prices today started at $99 per barrel, and gas is going to be more expensive (yes...more than now). My dad replied how it's amazing that none of the Democratic candidates have brought up this issue so far. When I said that all the candidates have said something about alternative energy, my father told me he meant the fact that for the past eight years, oil companies have been experiencing record profits, while the cost of living is growing in this oil-dependent society.
Once I got home, I began to explore this idea a little more. Sure enough, there are thousands of news stories about Exxon and BP and all the other oil corporations pulling record profits, and Democratic response has been minimal, at best. Now, I'm not one to directly accuse the Bush administration of playing a major role in this, but Dubya was a Texas oilman before entering politics, and people typically make friends in the workplace...
But I digress. Democrats need to bring up this point more often: during the Bush Administration, oil companies have experienced record profits, and the American people are paying more and more at the pump. The Democratic Party should make it a point to discuss this discrepancy, and present solutions. I hate to be crude, but people vote with their wallets. While there are those who vote for candidates based on their stance on the issues, or even through party loyalty, most voters want to make sure that the candidate they put into office will do what it takes to allow the average American to live comfortably.
Now, an oil company is a private entity. It exists to make profit, and I respect that. But is their such a thing as making too much profit? If gas prices reach a point where the majority of consumers are unable to pay, does that not defeat the purpose of a profit-making organization? Are private companies answerable to the public? Since the public is the consumer, I think so. We, the people, and our candidates have to take a stand, and say we won't tolerate this quasi-gouging (real gouging?) anymore, and if the oil companies can't/won't find a solution, then we will, and the candidate that rises up and presents the best solution will almost certainly be our next President.
Anyway, that's enough of my ranting. I wish everyone a safe, happy, and gluttonous Thanksgiving.
Once I got home, I began to explore this idea a little more. Sure enough, there are thousands of news stories about Exxon and BP and all the other oil corporations pulling record profits, and Democratic response has been minimal, at best. Now, I'm not one to directly accuse the Bush administration of playing a major role in this, but Dubya was a Texas oilman before entering politics, and people typically make friends in the workplace...
But I digress. Democrats need to bring up this point more often: during the Bush Administration, oil companies have experienced record profits, and the American people are paying more and more at the pump. The Democratic Party should make it a point to discuss this discrepancy, and present solutions. I hate to be crude, but people vote with their wallets. While there are those who vote for candidates based on their stance on the issues, or even through party loyalty, most voters want to make sure that the candidate they put into office will do what it takes to allow the average American to live comfortably.
Now, an oil company is a private entity. It exists to make profit, and I respect that. But is their such a thing as making too much profit? If gas prices reach a point where the majority of consumers are unable to pay, does that not defeat the purpose of a profit-making organization? Are private companies answerable to the public? Since the public is the consumer, I think so. We, the people, and our candidates have to take a stand, and say we won't tolerate this quasi-gouging (real gouging?) anymore, and if the oil companies can't/won't find a solution, then we will, and the candidate that rises up and presents the best solution will almost certainly be our next President.
Anyway, that's enough of my ranting. I wish everyone a safe, happy, and gluttonous Thanksgiving.
The State Budget: Originally Published 10/25/07
By tomorrow morning, Wisconsin will have a budget. After over 100 days of being overdue, Democrats and Republicans finally settled on a compromise budget, voted on it, passed it, and sent it off to Governor Doyle for signing.
Neither side is particularly happy with the budget. Democrats got expansion for health care, but not the universal health care plan they had hoped for. Republicans got an overall decrease in spending percentage-wise, but not as much as they had hoped. Everybody wins, but everybody feels like they lost at the same time.
That's the nature of compromise - no body gets exactly what they want, but everyone agrees to it. In this era of partisan politics, we often forget that the very reason democratic government exists is to allow lawmakers with opposing viewpoints to come together and create law that everyone can live with, if not agree on. As we can clearly see from this recent battle for the budget, when no one is willing to compromise, the government, and society, comes to a screeching halt.
Government agencies were shutting down, unsure of how much money they had on hand to spend. Public schools were |---this close---| to starting to consider cutting programs due to lack of funding. People were growing restless, and the Legislature became the laughingstock of not only the state, but I'm pretty sure that much of the nation was shaking their head. This is not representative government. This is schoolyard bickering.
I'm glad the budget passed. I'm also glad nobody is completely satisfied with the results. Perhaps it will send a lesson to our state representatives that they need to come to the table and negotiate before trying to pass budgets. But, since I read news that legislators will be trying to amend the budget with legislation soon, maybe I'm just naive.
Democrats and Republicans are both at fault here. Neither side is willing to listen, and both are so wrapped up in their own agendas that sometimes they fail to understand that by negotiating, compromising, and making deals, legislators are actually doing the job that we elected them for - establishing laws to help guide the people of Wisconsin, and to provide for their needs.
On a related note, I look forward to seeing many people at the Union tomorrow morning to watch Governor Doyle sign the new budget. May we all quickly celebrate, and get on with our lives past this utterly ridiculous ordeal.
Neither side is particularly happy with the budget. Democrats got expansion for health care, but not the universal health care plan they had hoped for. Republicans got an overall decrease in spending percentage-wise, but not as much as they had hoped. Everybody wins, but everybody feels like they lost at the same time.
That's the nature of compromise - no body gets exactly what they want, but everyone agrees to it. In this era of partisan politics, we often forget that the very reason democratic government exists is to allow lawmakers with opposing viewpoints to come together and create law that everyone can live with, if not agree on. As we can clearly see from this recent battle for the budget, when no one is willing to compromise, the government, and society, comes to a screeching halt.
Government agencies were shutting down, unsure of how much money they had on hand to spend. Public schools were |---this close---| to starting to consider cutting programs due to lack of funding. People were growing restless, and the Legislature became the laughingstock of not only the state, but I'm pretty sure that much of the nation was shaking their head. This is not representative government. This is schoolyard bickering.
I'm glad the budget passed. I'm also glad nobody is completely satisfied with the results. Perhaps it will send a lesson to our state representatives that they need to come to the table and negotiate before trying to pass budgets. But, since I read news that legislators will be trying to amend the budget with legislation soon, maybe I'm just naive.
Democrats and Republicans are both at fault here. Neither side is willing to listen, and both are so wrapped up in their own agendas that sometimes they fail to understand that by negotiating, compromising, and making deals, legislators are actually doing the job that we elected them for - establishing laws to help guide the people of Wisconsin, and to provide for their needs.
On a related note, I look forward to seeing many people at the Union tomorrow morning to watch Governor Doyle sign the new budget. May we all quickly celebrate, and get on with our lives past this utterly ridiculous ordeal.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)