Clearly Virginia needs to promote more voter suppression laws like many other states.

Simply cannot allow those nasty Dems to win … whatever it takes.

Let's not forget the military in Virginia. I know that the conventional wisdom is that they are conservative Republicans but whenever I see photos of the President in military settings, there seems to be a lot of enthusiasm for him. And the First Lady and Dr. Biden are doing some good things to help veterans with employment, so that should generate support as well.

Hispanics too especially in Northern Va. Steeler most of the military up here is of the Officer Variety. Enlisted folks seem to support the President. Officers and Retired that have become Private Contractors not so much.

Excellent points IR, Dennis, and Steeler Fan. May I also add anger? The reason I bring it up, the GOP has done a lot of, I will call it race baiting, in the state of Virginia. Remember the emails from the chairman of the Va. GOP? Anger is a great motivator.

Setting up the excuses this early Dennis? What laws are you referring too? God forbid you have to show ID, that would be crazy.

Steeler fan--my father in law is ex military (Vietnam) with close ties currently to the military via the VA Hospital system in Virginia and my nephew just got back from Iraq, the military will vote overwhelmingly for anyone but Obama. I am sure he has his supporters but that is not a vote his backers will be counting on.

Yeah those nasty voter suppression laws--you know those laws that require you to actually validate that you are a registered voter and can only vote once. Dont you hate those laws? How many times have I heard on this blog, hey if you are required to get auto insurance in a state I dont understand why you cant be mandated to buy health insurance. But these same people say wait, the most important civic duty a US citizen can have, we cant "mandate" that you have a personal ID validating that you vote. Thats not fair. Give me a break. Please be consistent with your arguments.

And I'm sure the military along with their families hear all the saber rattling at the GOP debates about going into a preemtive war with Iran.

I'd think that any military family would be with the President if they thought that if the republican nominee wants to send their loved ones to Persia wouldn't go over too well.

Preemptive being the important word. If the actual threat is there, we need to do what we have to do, but saying these things for the sake of a ideology neis unacceptable.

Hey Domenico, you and Mark Murray need to get your stories straight.

Cause see he just posted a story about how Virginia is up for grabs.

Yet here you are saying "Advantage Obama"

So has Mark been properly disciplined for placing doubt that Virginia may go Republican?

It's hard, isn't it Domenico, to keep your stories straight when you have to keep inventing reasons for Obama to succeed.

Paul, why is it only in states with a GOP majority they have such so-called election fraud? Can't the GOP run a fair election? Nope. Guess not. Oh, and the FEC has said there hasn't been any election fraud - even here in the great state of Florida where 5th amendment Rick is trying the same crap.

phine,

Really? let me take a look, but Illinois comes to mind. I'll get back to you.....

I live in Florida too, what story or link do you have? 5th amendment?

What about the mythical black TeaPeople? Any in Virginia?

Black teenage unemployment nationally is 40%. 50% in the DC area (you know, by Virginia). Unemployment for blacks is 16% nationally.

You'd think the elite media would be talking about such dismal numbers and how it might affect the Presidential race in 2012. Instead, silence.

Do blacks believe they can survive 4 more years of ObamaNomics?

Phine,

I just read an article about Florida's new voting law, most of it makes sense and I can see why you might not like it. But the meat of it effects third party groups and people that moved outside of the county.

If republicans keep up the talk of cutting benefits for our service men and women they will feel the consequences of those actions in any or all of the elections.

An outrageous number of them are already forced to take food stamps and such as they are paid very little to provide for their families.

Some States are in clear violation of the 24th amendment to the Constitution of the United States when they changed the law to require a photo / special ID and then require voters to pay for the ID. This is called a poll tax and is illegal in all Federal elections.

Say Dominico - any idea what Secretary Chu is up to today?

I wonder - when he directed Solyndra to delay lay off until after 11/3/10, was he "Leaning Forward?"

When when ensured the taxpayers were subordinated was he acting in a politically motivated manner?

This here is touted as a political blog, yet no mention of the the fact that a member of Obama's cabinet [hey and one of the few not directly tied to Wall Street] is getting called on the carpet.

Must not be very important, right?

Black vote in Virginia? Virginia is lost to Obama. No chance for him there.

Cut Dominico some slack WCA - he's got his priorities.'

I know the democrats always count on the black vote, it was the black vote that helped to elect Bill Clinton (1st black president), and Obama. I believe Obama was able to bring out more minority voters (black & Hispanics) because of race only and promises that he was going to do wonders for them.

I do not believe the minority voters will turn out in the same numbers in 2012 as they did in 2008 because of the high unemployment rate in the minority communities and the fact that the economy is hitting minorities harder.

I also believe Obama will loose the Jewish vote which in some areas can be very large and decisive.

Dennis, Good morning my friend. Just for clarity what voter suppression laws are you talking about? Showing an ID, what's wrong with that?

JoAnnaSmith1

Black teenage unemployment nationally is 40%. 50% in the DC area (you know, by Virginia). Unemployment for blacks is 16% nationally.

You'd think the elite media would be talking about such dismal numbers and how it might affect the Presidential race in 2012. Instead, silence.

Blacks certainly cannot survive 4 more years of ObamaNomics.

Look Sniff

Unless you are an Uncle Tom Black, you have no idea what you are talking about. Most Uncles like Koch-Cain are minstrels of the GOP to give the allusion the GOP is all inclusive. Nothing is further from the truth.

You see how the GOP discarded Micheal Steele and JC Watts. Micheal Steele gave them the House and 11 tea bagger governors. Yet all they could do for him was relive Steele of his lawn jockey duty; just like they are doing for Cain (really, they don't need to dismiss Cain he'll take his "Swannee River" singing ass on soon to another minstrel show trying to fit in. He is truly dumb.

FYI: The media talk about Black and Latino unemployment nearly every day. Again, you don;t know W-T-H you are talking about.

President Obama is not the President to not raise employment for Blacks.

I' m saying this in English not Cuban.

This is called a poll tax and is illegal in all Federal elections.

Bingo Dennis!

An elderly couple from TN testified on the Hill yesterday about the difficulties of obtaining a FREE voter ID card...

Seems the government was hell bent on charging them $8.00 each!

Beverly in Chicago

President Obama is not the President to not raise employment for Blacks.

Hahahahaha!!!!

The Angry Beaver speaks the truth! (and obviously her use of double-negatives was a clever strategic move ;-)

Superior intelligence. LOL! (NOT!)

(show me the clown nose, fisty!)

Fiesty and Dennis--is sort of like mandating that you pay for an Obamacare insurance card? Maybe they can combine obamacare with voter ID laws. Since if you already have insurance, you have an ID card and if you dont you will soon be covered by Obamacare. With this coverage, you can go down to the local exchange and get your federal ID that you will be required to pay for under his bill and now you can vote. Simple solution if you ask me.

Hi Sarge, and a good morning to you also.

There is nothing wrong with presenting proof that you are the same person that is registered when you show up at the polls. We have had that requirement for several years in Ohio.

But laws have been changed in several ways that adversely affects some groups.

Why is it a student ID not sufficient in TX where a gun license is?

Why have several states reduced the early voting window?

Why have some states made it more difficult to file an absentee ballot?

Some women in TN were denied a voter ID because the last name on their Birth Certificate was different than on their Drivers Likens / State ID and were told to return with proof of marriage when their DL address matched the voter registration records.

These are not “one off” incidents, they are happening in many states and is the reason the Attorneys’ General of several states have been asked to investigate these new laws. Even here in Ohio our Republican Secretary of State has said that the new laws went too far and might be considered as voter suppression.

Kirk,

Obamacare, as you call it, requires people to purchase insurance from a private health insurance company. Most of those companies do not issue photo insurance ID’s. Maybe they should to prevent some fraud.

The US DOJ is reviewing Slick Ricks photo ID law.

Concealed Handgun License = good ID

College student ID = bad ID

Sorry bev in daleyville got your black men confused again barry not Michael Steele gave us the House and 11 govenors in 2010, just like he will give us the Senate and the White House in 2012. barry obama the best politican for the Republican party ever.

In Texas a voter id card law won passage, it will go into affect for the 2012 primaries. You can vote with a state or federal id with photo ie. driver license, passport, military id, passport. For some reason they accept a concealed hand gun license as well.

If you don't have one of the above you can vote as a provisional ballot. However, It will not be counted until you go to the county elections office within 6 days with the accepted form.

Supposedly the state is going to have a plan in place by January to provide free id's. Even as an election judge our county election official told us that they are not sure how it will go into effect. Actually surprised with our cash strapped state budget that the legislature deemed free id's worthy to spend on.

A bigger problem I have is with the registration cut offs and deadlines shortening the period of early voting. I'm not one to think that same day registration and voting would work for Texas, but cutting registration off a month before an election just cuts down participation.

Dennis, I didn't think about the poll tax angle. No wonder the plan yet to be developed by the state must provide free id's.

They can not afford $8 for ID card but can make it to Washington to testify before congress.

What a circus

Obama wins!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, Virginia, there is hope!! Hopefully we'll keep George Allen out too!!!

(btw, same will be true in North Carolina where the black population is as big or bigger than the old dominion........... MOBILIZE!!)

Marlon - as Clinton said in the '92 election it's the economy, stupid! Obama stands not a chance if things do not improve and he cannot blame it on anyone else because the majority will see right through it as BS. Got nothing to do with race and everythng to do with his policies. Which are, as it has been shown so far, a total loser.

JoAnna Smith1:

Do blacks believe they can survive 4 more years of ObamaNomics?

A FAR BETTER QUESTION to ask would be "What GOP/TP Senator, Congressperson, AND/OR Presidential has spoken out on the unemployment plight of African Americans?"

"What GOP/TP Senator, Congressperson, AND/OR Presidential has spoken out on the unemployment plight of African Americans?"

Kevin actually Bachmann had attempted to speak about jobs in the hispanic and black community.

Bachman are you serious, Come on the woman is the Ultimate two faced WELFARE QUEEN 250,000 in farm subsides, 30,000 in health care funds in her home state alone for her clinic. That does not include federal, her salary on the backs of the taxpayers, benefits, expenses, Unlimited travel around the world, expenses paid out of tax dollars and unreported. Get REAL.

suz..

You need to get real. Divide the number of years into total medicaid payments recieved by her husband and the question becomes why is he not doing more for the down trodden?

Her salary and expenses are just like all congress persons. Perhaps you would look at how her expenses rank among her colleagues for a true picture.

She will never be President, but much could be learned if you would quit the ridicule and listen.

Obama is a disgrace to all black people for what he has done to this country, he will face a stronger defeat than Carter.

"the President begins to campaign"?

Amy,

the President has been doing nothing but campaigning for a year now.

Sorry, Bob, but it is the GOP who has been campaigning since January 2009. Mustn't forget Mitch MacConnell and "our number one priority is to make President Obama a one term president". And they have been campaigning that way ever since, to the determent of the American people.

Amy,

So what you're saying Amy is that Independents like myself are not aware right now of whats going on? That I need a Democrat, according to your post, explain to me that Obama/Harry/and at the time Nancy saved us from an econmomic crisis? WOW, you really think Independents are that clueless?

What do you mean throw in an extra week of vacation and increase his pension?

Paul-Florida

In my experience, most "Independents" are people who don't like politics (imagine that!) and don't follow issues closely. Just yesterday, a co-worker told me she doesn't vote early (like I do), because she makes up her mind in the voting booth. She also was too busy on election day this year, to vote for our new mayor.

To me, it's not a question of do we re-elect Obama, but what can we offer him to get him to stay? President Obama has put up with more personal attacks (birther nonsense, etc) and political obstruction (the Do Nothing Congress) than he deserves, considering the man is just trying to heal the country, bring troops home from the Middle East and improve our economy.

Paul: So what you're saying Amy is that Independents like myself are not aware right now of whats going on? That I need a Democrat, according to your post, explain to me that Obama/Harry/and at the time Nancy saved us from an econmomic crisis? WOW, you really think Independents are that clueless?

Amy is very informed about the issues Paul. She knows her stuff. Amy knows that anyone that goes to Fox for their news is an "uninformed voter". Of course Amy will not tell us where she gets her news so she could become such an "informed" voter. By the looks of things, and by her writings, and her statement that she would "walk across burning coals for Obama", she gets 99% of her information from The Ed Show.

Real bright gal, that Amy.

Amy B. Portland, ME

President Obama has put up with more personal attacks...

Oh yeah... libbies never launched ANY personal attacks against Pres. G.W. Bush....

Never! (LOL!)

(show me the clown nose, fisty!)

JoannaSmith

I don't have cable TV. I get my news from First Read, the New York Times, NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams, local papers, Huffington Post, Meet The Press, The New Yorker, 60 Minutes, and my own eyes.

President Obama has put up with more personal attacks (birther nonsense, etc) and political obstruction (the Do Nothing Congress) than he deserves

George Bush got more support in his first two years in office than he deserved.

that's the difference.

Amy, did you forget about Think Progress and Media matters?

You know, Spanky, I really don't visit those sites on a regular basis, perhaps I should.

Well Amy I'm not offering anyone anything that I have and earned to the morons that serve currently in both parties. If you honestly think calling a party, a party of NO and inturn you have the Senate doing the same thing is nuts, and that Americans are lazy and soft. For myself, I can't support an Administration that has called me a "Right-Wing terrorist" because I served my country or that I'm lazy and soft and in the same breathe, I need to do a little more like pay a little more. I'm Middle-Class, according to Obama, I make under 250K, but paid over $33K in taxes thus far. Where is my money going? Why aren't the people not paying, 48% of them? I'm sure they can put in a few bucks right? Fair is fair, We the People-right? Anyways I got side track, but even if Obama was a Republican my views right now would not change. They're both F-ed up, if you don't believe me, ask an Indepenent. It seems your friend is voting for the lesser of two evils and I don't blame her.

Oops : typo error, Lady Sniff

President Obama is NOT the 1st President to not raise employment for Blacks.

I' m saying this in English not Cuban.

Did you see this?

Cain's Latest Gaffe: Thinks 'Cuban' Is A Language

http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2011/11/16/370443/cains-latest-gaffe-thinks-cuban-is-a-language/

There's even a video for you to watch it.

Amy: I really don't visit those sites on a regular basis, perhaps I should.

You should. They'll support your delusions.

Cain’s Latest Gaffe: Thinks ‘Cuban’ Is A Language

Barack Obama thinks Austrian is a language. There's even a video for you to watch it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tr7zhnctF4c

Bob -- We may have to get you a little somethin' to calm you down once this President gets in full campaign mode! ; )

Scia: Bob -- We may have to get you a little somethin' to calm you down once this President gets in full campaign mode! ; )

So will this President be running on his record?

And how will we know when this President is in "full campaign mode"? Is it possible that this President can be campaigning more than he is now?

JAS1 -- Whatever he runs on is fine by me. And yes JoAnna you will see the difference!

Paul-Florida

The President never said Americans are lazy or soft. How can you build your whole political viewpoint on the marketing campaign of the President's opponents?

No one in the Obama administration called you a terrorist because you are a military vet, but apparently some right-wing nut jobs are veterans, and may be more dangerous than non-military right wing nut jobs, because of their training. Timothy McVeigh comes to mind (Oklahoma bombing? Remember?)

AMY B. Portland: Apparently your assessment and 'knowledge' of the Independent voter is based upon several clueless individuals you encountered. Unless I missed something in your post with respect to your co-worked; his/her Party affliation is not mentioned.

As an Independent voter, I vote in all Local, State and Federal elections. I follow the issues quite closely. I vote as a Fiscal Conservative and understand the nuances of 'Candidate-Talk'...the more promises made by the individual, the less likely I will vote for that individual. I believe that you will find individuals who profess that they are Independent voters because it is now the 'politically correct' voter position. The true Independent maintains a current and accurate understanding of the politician/candidate and the issues. I suggest that you broaden your political horizons by reviewing all political mindsets...Liberal, Conservative, Green, Left/Right/Center, etc. I follow this very Liberal blog (First Read) because I wish to attempt to understand the Left political beliefs of some very informed individuals. I also go to Conservative/Religious, etc. blogs for the same reasons. On each blog, there are always individuals whose comments are straight from their Party's talking points....in other words Parrots who can only repeat and never learn. I have read several of your comments on other issues and you have started to grow some feathers. I am hopeful that any wings that may result will allow you to soar above one Party Zealotry and understand that your Party is not the sole authority on everything.

Barack Obama thinks Austrian is a language. There's even a video for you to watch it.

Sniffy,

You mean as in Aussie - Australian. That sounds much closer to Australian than Cuban does to Cuban; since Cubans speak Spanish not Cuban

People in Australia can speak with an Aussie accent.

Amy B. gets her news from, among others, MSLSD and the NY Times - who print all the news that is unfit to read because it has been plagiarized, is fiction, or the writer has used imaginary sources. Enough written.

Amy is not informed she is a liberal lemming.

Bob: "MSNBC won't ever give up on you, Barak."

MSNBC gets PAID to do that .

Even when they know Obama is BAD for the economy, the unemployment rate went UP and the debt increased by $4 trillion in his 3 years as President. It's as if this President is MORE IMPORTANT than the American people.

I call it anti-Americanism disguised as "journalism."

nisl, that is a sad truth!

Why is it that people who only show up to vote against a black man are racists but (black) people who only show up to vote for a black man is not racist? (that's somewhat of a hypocritical statement don't you think?)

Oh yeah... I forgot... as I have been told many times here... Black People Can't Be Racist!

(show me the clown nose, fisty!)

Or those racist Black Panthers uh? Hate to break it to you nisl, there's racism comes in all colors, but I'm sure you understand that right?

Sicko - The difference is if you show up to vote for someone based upon shared attributes (religion, race, education, place of origin, etc) you are voting out of love. Whereas if you show up to vote against someone because of perceived differences (religion, race, education, place of origin, etc) you are voting out of hate.

Or maybe just the people who ardently feel that Obama's policies are a form of economic racism by creating a nanny state where addiction to government assistance is generational. If Obama only promoted policies based on self reliance and personal accountability, he wouldnt bring out voters dedicated to make him a one term president. Your right it is a sad truth.

nisl

Sicko - The difference is if you show up to vote for someone based upon shared attributes (religion, race, education, place of origin, etc) you are voting out of love. Whereas if you show up to vote against someone because of perceived differences (religion, race, education, place of origin, etc) you are voting out of hate.

REALLY?

So in 2008 when they (black voters) showed up to vote against John McCain they were really just voting out of lover for Obama?

And by the way... how do you know what was in their hearts when they voted... was it lover for a brutha or hate for the man?

YOU sound like a racist to me.

(show me the clown nose, fisty!)

Sicko - Bless your little heart. In 2008, I would assume, black people showed up to vote for Obama, not against McCain. I certainly don't recall a whole bunch of McCain hatred coming from black people, but I do recall a great deal of Obama love.

People on the right, like you, are so blinded by hatred that hatred is the only reason you and they can see to vote for anyone. I'd suggest you, and those like you, seek therapy. That much hatred can harm your health.

PS - The only group of people I personally don't like is halfwit wingnuts like you.

nisl

Sicko - Bless your little heart. In 2008, I would assume, black people showed up to vote forObama, not against McCain.

nisl... Bless your little heart... the problem is you ASSUME.

And you know what they say... (i think in your case the result of your assumptions reflects mostly on you.)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

nisl

PS - The only group of people I personally don't like is halfwit wingnuts like you.

Gee... that really hurts, nisl... Why you gotta be a hater? :-)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

(show me the clown nose, fisty!)

nisl,

Here's a little gem from Bev, nope nothing wrong there eh?

"Unless you are an Uncle Tom Black, you have no idea what you are talking about. Most Uncles like Koch-Cain are minstrels of the GOP to give the allusion the GOP is all inclusive. Nothing is further from the truth."

Sicko - You see, this is why I don't like halfwit wingnuts like you.

You assume that black people voted for Obama because they hated McCain. I point out that the historic record of the 2008 election is filled up with examples of African Americans loving Obama. I also point out that there are relatively few examples of black people hating McCain. And what do you do? You attack my use of the word "Assume." This even though it is your faulty assumption of the motivation of black people that started this particular conversation.

Look, I'm not usually so blunt, but I've got a bit of a cold. So let me put this in a way you will understand: You are an idiot. The first step you can take to stop being an idiot is to actually read the argument you are responding to and then, when you respond, actually address the points made.

nisl,

Now now... no need for name-calling. (frustrated much?)

I will say that I believe that your premise is false... I made no assumptions at all. I merely turned your statements around to show you the other perspective... which you immediately rejected.

My statement about voting against McCain vs for Obama was a question of what was in their heart. I don't pretend to know that and neither should you.

Seems that you should be a little more open to looking at things from different perspectives if you REALLY want to make this a better place for all of us to live.

Have a nice day :-)

(show me the clown nose, fisty!)

SOB

Black People Can't Be Racist!

(show me the clown nose, fisty!)

Don't be ridiculous. Racism exits in every race. Sometimes even with their own race. According to Mendel like begets like. but we now that is not true as evidenced by people of biracial

Your premise is false... I made no assumptions at all. I merely turned your statements around to show you the other perspective... which you immediately rejected.

I immediately rejected it because it wasn't grounded in reality. Can you point to a mass outpouring of McCain hatred from African Americans in 2008? No, you can't. I can, however, point to a mass outpouring of love for Obama from African Americans. You ignored this because it doesn't fit into your assumption of what drives voters.

My statement about voting against McCain vs for Obama was a question of what was in their heart. I don't pretend to know that and neither should you.

Why would anyone need to pretend anything? If their voting was motivated out of hatred the media would be full of examples of said hatred. For instance, when John Kerry ran against Dubya Bush it would be fair to say Democratic voters were largely motivated by hatred. We (at least I) felt no love for John Kerry, but we did not like Dubya (for some damn good reasons.)

Beverly in Chicago

According to Mendel like begets like. but we now that is not true as evidenced by people of biracial

What the Hell did she say?

nisl

I immediately rejected it because it wasn't grounded in reality. Can you point to a mass outpouring of McCain hatred from African Americans in 2008? No, you can't. I can, however, point to a mass outpouring of love for Obama from African Americans.

Keep trying nisl...

I can point to a mass outpouring of 'love' for McCain by whites... but you would call that racism now wouldn't you.

You can't hide your true colors... no pun intended.

I can point to a mass outpouring of 'love' for McCain by whites... but you would call that racism now wouldn't you.

Wow, you should reread my advice to you on how not to be an idiot. Then look at my earlier comments in this thread.

No, a mass outpouring of love for McCain by whites (not that there was one) would not be racism. Nor would Catholics voting for Kennedy (or Mormons voting for Romney when he wins) be considered religious bigotry.

If people like you were actually capable of making cogent arguments you wouldn't be considered morons quite so much. The first step is actually thinking, you should try that sometime.

nisl

From SickOfTheBickering: My statement about voting against McCain vs for Obama was a question of what was in their heart. I don't pretend to know that and neither should you.

Why would anyone need to pretend anything? If their voting was motivated out of hatred the media would be full of examples of said hatred.

REALLY? You mean hatred like that coming from King Samir Shabazz and the Black Panther's in Philly?

What was it he said...

I hate a cracka... every last iota of 'em!

You mean that kind of hatred?

nisl... to use your own words... "You are an idiot".

(show me the clown nose, fisty!)

You sound a little frustrated, there nisl...

;-)

Sicko - I'm sick, so, yeah, I'm a bit frustrated.

And pointing to the New Black Panther party is weak tea. They barely even exist except for the puffing Fox News and Hate Radio give them to scare white folk. If that is your idea of a mass outpouring of hate towards McCain you are reaching. Further, I DO consider the New Black Panther party a racist organization, they just lack the numbers to be in the least relevant.

You sound a little frustrated, there nisl...

Speaking of frustrated, I wonder how your boss would feel if they knew you were ripping off time from them... again...?

Whoo Hoo!

Yet another racist lunatic heard from! Thanks Feisty! I thought that you had me on the old ignore list.

It's nice to know that you DO read EVERYTHING I post and that I am not a huge waste of time (as you said yesterday)

The SOTB Fan Club never fails to deliver! ;-)

(show me the clown nose, fisty!)

What do you care fiesty about Sick's boss your sitting on yours getting your freebies until your meal ticket gets thrown out of the WH next year, lol. What has got your moonbat buddy nisl's panties in a wad. lmao

Why do Presidential candidates always try to choose a VP from a different region than they are from? Because voters like to elect people they identify with - it's a fact.

You ask a slanted question to begin with. The direction that is set by asking "Why do black voters vote for Obama?" is completely different than the direction that is set by asking "Why do voters vote for Obama?"

From class, education, race, region, politics, party...there are infinite number of reasons that voters have self-categorized as important to them.

Anyone can knee jerk a response to me saying I like sunlight by saying saying instead that I dislike the dark.

Some people wear their emotions on their sleeve more than others, making it identifiable 'why' they do what they do and others, not so much.

If you ask your question, in general terms, it can't be answered. If you ask your question with a given slant in the question itself, you've already supplied your own answer.

Citing the things you did above might be valid if it were true that it was soley in the hands of the President to make a difference in all of those areas and it is clear the President alone does not. If you were at least being honest about how Government works in this Country, you wouldn't be able to ask such a silly question. By the merits, you should be railing against Newt Gingrich for claiming to be part of the success of the Clinton Administration's balancing of the Federal Budget, job creation and other legislative victories that happened during that time. By your commentary above, 100% of the credit of those things belong to President Clinton and non to the Congress.

Silly sounding, right? Exactly.

Hey Allen... with all due respect...

You did see that the title of this article is

Black voters give Obama advantage in Virginia

right?

(show me the clown nose, fisty!)

...with the same due respect, I don't recall giving any endorsement to the title or substance of the article.

You should stop assuming.

Allen,

I assumed nothing... you asked

Allen - Omaha

You ask a slanted question to begin with. The direction that is set by asking "Why do black voters vote for Obama?" is completely different than the direction that is set by asking "Why do voters vote for Obama?"

It just seems natural (given the topic of the FR article) that someone might ask "Why do black voters vote for Obama?"

That'a all.

Have a good afternoon. :-)

White Collar Auto

Or is it, God forbid, because he is black?

'Cause I'm pretty sure, if a white guy votes for a white guy, just because he is white, you would call him a racist.

White Collar Auto,

Back that up there. Why didn't Black people (gasp) approve of Clarence Thomas and Condilezza Rice?

The majority will not vote for the Hermantor; notwithstanding, he'll never get the nomination.

Interesting point. And how does this sound?

"And the criticism from some high-profile Black Americans, like Cornell West and Tavis Smiley, does not appear to be a widely held view among African American voters."

Allen - Omaha

And the criticism from some high-profile Black Americans, like Cornell West and Tavis Smiley, does not appear to be a widely held view among African American voters."

It's that old "blacker than thou" thing which really irks me. It's okay to be proud of their heritage which every one should be; but don't "black out" like Cornell West and his boyfriend Tavis Smiley have.

Besides, what have these 2 done for black people except go on TV and spew their jealousy and contempt for an intelligent well liked Black man because they both hold a grudge.

West didn't get a ticket to the inauguration. Smiley is mad because the President didn't come to his forum during the time the President was campaigning. West is nuts in my opinion.

Both have scammed their own people of their money.

Tommy,

May I ask what exactly it is that has formed your opinion regarding Obama's "greatness"?

Tell me man, WHY is he GREAT?

Is it how he fixed the economy?

Is it how he closed GitMo?

Is it how he fixed the banks?

Is it how he fixed our relationship with the middle-eastern terrorists?

Tell me man... i might vote for him too ;-)

Mr. Sick here is just 244 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

of PRESIDENT OBAMA

Don't let people tell you he did not do anything!!

ETHICS

• Ordered the White House and all federal agencies to respect the Freedom of Information Act and overturned Bush-era limits on accessibility of federal documents (2009)

• Instructed all federal agencies to promote openness and transparency as much as possible (2009)

• Placed limits on lobbyists’ access to the White House (2009)

• Placed limits on White House aides working for lobbyists after their tenure in the administration (2009)

• Signed a measure strengthening registration and reporting requirements for lobbyists (2009)

• Ordered that lobbyists must be removed from and are no longer permitted to serve on federal and White House advisory panels and boards (2009) * Note: After saying he would not hire lobbyists, a few have been hired in the Administration

• Companies and individuals who are delinquent on their taxes or owe back taxes are no longer allowed to bid for federal contracts (2009)

• Initiated the “e-Rulemaking Initiative” (in cooperation with Cornell University) to allow for online public “notice and comment” of federal laws and initiatives (2010)

• Issued the “Open Gov Directive” ordering all Cabinet departments to promote transparency and citizen participation in their policies (2010)

• Signed extensions on banning lobbyists from serving on agency boards (2010)

• Developed the “Don Not Pay List” with data on contractors and recipients of federal funds who are deemed to be ineligible because of fraud and abuse (2010)

Equal Pay for equal work for women!! (2009)

GOVERNANCE

• The White House website now provides information on all economic stimulus projects and spending, along with an unprecedented amount of information on our government (2009)

• Ended the Bush-era practice of circumventing established FDA rules for political reasons (2009)

• Ended the Bush-era practice of having White House staff rewrite the findings of scientific and environmental regulations and reports when they disagreed with the results (2009)

• Limited the salaries of senior White House aides (salaries cut to $100,000) (2009)

• Has urged Congress to adopt “Pay-Go” (whereby each dollar of spending is offset by a dollar in cuts or revenues, which was used in the `90s but abandoned in the `00s) (2010)

• Has been holding open meetings with Republican leaders, although they complain of a lack of access and information (2010)

• Signed the Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Act (2010) * Note: To curb wasteful spending

• Tasked federal agencies to develop plans for disposing of unneeded real estate and then to eliminate unnecessary or non-economical lands, properties, etc. (2010)

NATIONAL SECURITY

• Phasing out the expensive F-22 war plane (which wasn’t even used in Iraq/Afghanistan) and other outdated weapons systems (2009)

• Announced his intention to close the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay (2009) * Note: The closure has been delayed due to massive opposition but it remains on the agenda.

• Stated his interest in housing terrorists at a new federal “super max” facility in the US (2009) * Note: this has been delayed in the face of massive opposition but it remains on the agenda

• Cut the expensive Reagan era missile defense program, saving $1.4 billion in 2010 (2009)

• Cancelled plans to station anti-ballistic missile systems in Poland and the Czech Republic (2009)

• Replacing long-range, expensive missile systems with more efficient smaller systems (2009)

• Increased US Navy patrols off the Somali coast in response to pirating (2009)

• Established a new cyber security office and appointed a cyber security czar (2009)

• Ordered the first nation-wide comprehensive cyber threat assessment (2009)

• Instituted a new Nuclear Posture Review, revising US nuclear deterrence policy to encourage more nations to join the 1996 Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (2010) * Note: Components of the policy include: a pledge to stop nuclear testing; a pledge to not build a new generation of nucs; identifying nuclear terrorism, rather than a launch from another nuclear state, as the major threat; a pledge to not use nucs on a non-nuclear state in a conventional conflict; etc.

• Executive orders to block payment, transfers, exports, etc… of individuals and organizations support the regimes of North Korea, Iran, Somali pirates, and other foreign threats (2010)

• Presidential Memoranda to extend certain provisions of The Trading with Enemies Act which was to expire in September 2010 (2010) * Note: This includes freezing assets and banning trade that benefits the Cuban regime; however further efforts at normalizing travel to Cuba are supported

• Signed bill for southwest border security and increased funds and agents on the Mexican border (2010)

• Signed the Comprehensive Sanctions, Accountability and Divestment Act to deal with foreign regimes like Iran and North Korea (2010)

IRAQ & AFGHANISTAN

• Began the phased withdrawal of US troops from Iraq (2009); continuing the withdrawal (2010)

• Changed the US military command in the Afghan conflict (2009)

• Tasked the Pentagon to reorganize US policy in Afghanistan; the new policy includes 30,000 additional troops deployed, priority training of Afghan forces, developing agriculture and infrastructure, limiting aerial bombing, etc. (2009)

• Ordered the Pentagon to send additional helicopters to assist US Marine units and Special Forces in Afghanistan (2009)

• Increased unmanned drone strikes on Taliban and al-Qaeda targets in Afghanistan (2009)

• Ended the Bush-era “stop-loss” policy that kept soldiers in Iraq/Afghanistan longer than their enlistment date (2009)

MILITARY & VETERANS

• Ordered the Pentagon to cover expenses of families of fallen soldiers if they wish to be on site when the body arrives back in the US (2009)

• Ended the Bush-era “blackout” imposed on media coverage of the return of fallen US soldiers (2009) * Note: The media is now permitted to cover the story pending adherence to respectful rules and with the approval of the fallen soldier’s family

• Ended the Bush-era “black out” policy on media coverage of war casualties (2009) * Note: Full information is now released for the first time in the War on Terror

• Ordered better body armor to be procured for US troops (2009)

• Funding new Mine Resistant Ambush Vehicles (2009) * Note: The old Hummers were very vulnerable to roadside explosives and an alarming percentage of our soldiers lost in Iraq were on account of IEDs

• Working to increase pay and benefits for military personnel (2009)

• Improving housing for military personnel (2009)

• Initiating a new policy to promote federal hiring of military spouses (2009)

• Ordered that conditions at Walter Reed Military Hospital and other neglected military hospitals be improved (2009)

• Beginning the process of reforming and restructuring the military to a post-Cold War, modern fighting force (2009) * Note: Bush announced in 2001 his intention to do this but backed off the reforms after 9/11, which include: new procurement policies; increasing the size of Special Ops units; deploying new technologies; creating new cyber security units; etc.

• Ended the Bush-era practice of awarding “no-bid” defense contracts (2009)

• Improving benefits for veterans as well as VA staffing, information systems, etc. (2009)

• Authorized construction of additional health centers to care for veterans (2009)

• Suspended the Bush-era decision to purchase a fleet of Marine One helicopters from suppliers in favor of American made helicopters (2009)

• Ordered a review of the existing “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy on gays in the military (2010)

• New GI Bill for returning veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan (2009)

• Signed bill providing assistance for caregivers of veterans wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan (2010) * Note: The omnibus bill does the following: Training, funding, and counseling for caregivers; promoting pilot childcare programs for women vets under treatment at the VA; independent oversight to prevent abuse; readjustment counseling for National Guard and reservist units; etc.

• Eliminated co-payments for veterans who are catastrophically disabled (2010)

• Fulfilled campaign promise to have combat troops (90,000) out of Iraq by August 31, 2010 (2010)

• Established a new interagency task force to assist veterans owning small businesses (2010) * Note: The efforts include promoting federal contract opportunities, improve access to loans and capital, mentor assistance programs, etc.

• Signed The Families of Fallen Heroes Act, which covers the moving costs of immediate family members of those lost in service (military, intelligence, and security personnel) (2010)

FOREIGN POLICY

• Closed the Bush-era “secret detention” facilities in Eastern Europe (2009)

• Ended the Bush-era policy allowing “enhanced interrogation” (torture); the US is again in compliance with Geneva Convention standards (2009) * Note: Obama has permitted some controversial interrogation techniques to continue

• Restarted international nuclear non-proliferation talks and reestablished international nuclear inspection protocols (2009) * Note: Bush withdrew from non-proliferation talks and dismantled the inspection infrastructure

• Reengaged in the treaties/agreements to protect the Antarctic (2009) * Note: These were suspended under Bush

• Reengaged in the agreements/talks on global warming and greenhouse gas emissions (2009) * Note: These were suspended under Bush

• Visited more countries and met with more world leaders than any president in his first six months in office (2009)

• Banned the export of cluster bombs (2009)

• Overturned Bush-era plans to increase the US nuclear arsenal (2009)

• Authorized the Navy SEALS operation that freed by force the US shipping captain held by Somali pirates (2009)

• Restored the US commitment to the UN population fund for family planning; overturned the ban on providing funds internationally for family planning (2009) * Note: The family planning efforts were suspended under Bush

• Instituted a new policy on Cuba, allowing Cuban families to return “home” to visit families (2009)

• Extended an offer of engagement (free from sanctions and penalties) to Iran through December 31, 2009 (Iran did not accept the offer) (2009)

• Sent envoys to the Middle East and other parts of the world, reengaging in multilateral and bilateral talks and diplomacy (2009)

• Authorized discussions with North Korea and the private mission by former president, Bill Clinton, to secure the release of two Americans held in prisons (2009)

• Authorized discussions with Myanmar and the mission by Senator Jim Web to secure the release of an American held captive (2009)

• Renewed loan guarantees for Israel (2009)

• Signed the USIFTA trade agreement with/for Israel (2009)

• Authorized a $550m advance for Israel (six months prior to the scheduled date) in order to accommodate Israeli’s economic and financial needs (2009)

• Continued agreements with Israel for cultural exchanges, immigration, etc. (2009)

• Spoke on Arab television, spoke at an Egyptian university, and met with Arab leaders in an effort to change the tone of US-Arab relations (2009)

• Ordered the US to finally pay its dues to the United Nations (2009)

• Attended the Summit of America’s meeting in Trinidad and Tobago (2010)

• Dispatched several envoys and initiated talks with numerous nations (2010)

• Signed a nuclear limitation treaty with Russia (2010) * Note: The agreement calls for both countries to reduce their nucs by one-third (1,500) and launch systems by half (800)

• Hosted nuclear non-proliferation summit for several nations (2010)

• Executive Order to establish support offices in the State Department to assist the governments of Pakistan and Afghanistan (2010)

• Presidential Memoranda to continue drug interdiction support with Columbia (2010)

ECONOMY

• Increased infrastructure spending (roads, bridges, power plants…) (2009) * Note: Bush was the first president since Herbert Hoover to not make infrastructure a priority

• Authorized the US auto industry rescue plan and two GMAC rescue packages (2009)

• Authorized the housing rescue plan and new FHA residential housing guarantees (2009)

• Authorized a $789 billion economic stimulus plan (2009) * Note: 1/3 in tax cuts for working-class families; 1/3 to states for infrastructure projects; 1/3 to states to prevent the layoff of police officers, teachers, etc. at risk of losing their jobs because of state budget shortfalls

• Instituted a new rule allowing the public to meet with federal housing insurers to refinance (in as quickly as one day) a mortgage if they are having trouble paying (2009)

• Authorized a continuation of the US financial and banking rescue plans initiated at the end of the Bush administration and authorized TARP funds to buy “toxic assets” from failing financial institutions (2009)

• Authorized the “Cash for Clunkers” program that stimulated auto sales and removed old, inefficient, polluting cars from the road (2009)

• Convened a “jobs summit” to bring experts together to develop ideas for creating jobs (2009)

• Ordered the FDIC to beef up deposit insurance (2009)

• Ended the Bush-era policy of protecting credit card companies (2009) * Note: In place of the old policy, new consumer protections were instituted and the industry’s predatory practices were banned

• Authorized the federal government to make more loans available to small businesses and ordered lower rates for federal loans to small businesses (2009)

• Placed a 35% tariff on Chinese tires and a few other products such as pipes after China was found to be illegally “dumping” exports below cost (2009) * Note: Clinton, Bush I, and Reagan all refused to “get tough” on China’s predatory trade practices; Bush II refused four times during his presidency

• In November 2009, Obama extended unemployment benefits for one million workers

and expanded coverage for some existing homeowners who are buying again (2009)

• Called on Congress to deliver a “Jobs bill” (2010)

• Credit card companies are prohibited from raising rates without advance notification or arbitrarily if customers are paying bills on time (2010)

• Signed a bill to extend unemployment benefits set to expire (2010)

• Signed historic Wall Street reform bill (2010) * Note: Designed to reregulate and end abusive practices and promote consumer protections

• Signed the HIRE Act to stimulate the economic recovery (2010) * Note: The bill includes: tax cuts for small businesses who hire someone unemployed for at least two months; small businesses can write off their investments in equipment this year; etc.

• National Export Initiative established to enhance federal support (technical assistance, training, trade missions, etc.) and coordination efforts to help US businesses export products and services (2010)

• Initiatives to promote a “Wireless Broadband Revolution” (2010) * Note: Among other things, broadband is finally being considered as necessary infrastructure, with efforts to expand use, access, and spectrum…

• Expanded agricultural credit to farmers during current economic crisis (2010)

• Signed bill - US Manufacturing Enhancement Act (2010)

• Signed bill - Single Family Housing Mortgage Insurance (2010)

TAXES

• Negotiated a deal with Swiss banks to permit the US government to gain access to records of tax evaders and criminals (2009)

• Ended the Bush-era policy of offering tax benefits to corporations who outsource American jobs (2009) * Note: The new policy promotes in-sourcing investments to brings jobs back to the US

• Signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act which provides small tax cuts for 95% of “working families” (2009) * Note: The tax cuts were not as big as was suggested during the 2008 campaign

• Convened an advisory board that is looking into simplifying the tax code (2009)

• Ordered the closing of offshore tax safe havens (for individual and business tax evaders) (2009)

• Reduced taxes for some small businesses to stimulate the economic recovery (2009)

• Extended the Home Buyers Credit for first-time home buyers (2009)

• Proposed doubling the child tax credit (2010)

• Called for the repeal of the capital gains tax for small businesses (2010)

• Proposed rolling back the 2001 and 2003 Bush tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans (2010) * Note: This would be for families earning over $250,000/year and would return their tax rates to the 1990’s level

BUDGETING

• Ordered all federal agencies to undertake a study and make recommendations for ways to cut federal spending (2009)

• Ordered a review of all federal operations to identify wasteful spending and practices (2009)

• Established a National Performance Officer charged with saving the federal government money and making federal operations more efficient (2009)

• Overturned the Bush-era practice of not listing certain federal programs in the federal budget (2009) (2010) * Note: Bush did this (so did Reagan) in an effort to hide programs and make the budget look smaller; such “off budget” items are now included in the annual budget

• Full appropriations for war are now included in the budget (2009) (2010) * Note: Bush did not list many of the appropriations for Iraq, Afghanistan, and War on Terror

• Funds for emergency appropriations are now included in the budget (2009) (2010)

• Proposed a three-year freeze on federal discretionary spending beginning in 2011 (2010)

• Is in the process of cutting 120 federal programs identified as either wasteful or unnecessary (2010)

• Established a bipartisan commission on fiscal responsibility, staffed by House and Senate members and private citizens, tasked with submitting proposals to balance the budget (2010) * Note: In the face of Republican opposition, the powers of the commission were watered down

• Established a bipartisan commission on the future of Social Security, tasked with submitting proposals to preserve and strengthen Social Security (2010) * Note: In the face of Republican opposition, the powers of the commission were watered down

• Cut $20 billion from federal budget and has pledged to cut at least this much every year (2010)

• Ultimately decided to cancel planned new presidential helicopter fleet and stick with marine One (2010)

• Freezing all discretionary spending for next three years, except on national security (2010)

• Presidential Memoranda to freeze discretionary awards, bonuses, etc. for federal political appointees (2010)

• Beginning to use “Pay-As-You-Go” (Pay-Go) to offset budget expenditures with budget cuts or revenue enhancements (2010)

HEALTHCARE

• Removed Bush era restrictions on embryonic stem-cell research (2009)

• Federal support for stem-cell and new biomedical research (2009)

• Expanded the SCHIP program to cover health care for 4 million more children (2009)

• Established an independent commission to make recommendations on slowing the costs of Medicare (2009)

• Reversed some of the Bush-era restrictions that prevented Medicare from negotiating with pharmaceutical firms for cheaper drugs, allowing government to again competitively bid (2009) * Note: Obama had promised to lift all restrictions but, while he did negotiate with drug companies for them to lower their costs the deal only lifted some restrictions

• Expanding government vaccination programs (2009)

• Issued new disease prevention guidelines and priorities for the CDC (2009)

• Authorized the FDA to finally begin regulating tobacco (2009)

• Tasked federal labs to prioritize research on and deployment of H1N1 vaccines (2009)

• Asked multiple congressional committees to bring forward a healthcare reform bill; held dozens of public hearings and town halls on the issue (2009) (2010)

• Established a new council on National Prevention, Health Promotion, and Public Health to be chaired by Surgeon General and charged with promoting healthy lifestyles and integrative healthcare (2010)

• When accusations to the contrary arose, an Executive Order was signed to reaffirm that federal funds are not to be used for abortion services (2010)

• Historic healthcare reform bill signed - $940 billion over 10 years (2010) * Note: 32 million additional Americans will receive healthcare coverage and costs will be lowered for most Americans, but many of the goals are phased in over four years

Components of the bill

- Prevents insurance companies from denying coverage to individuals/family members with pre-existing health conditions; a temporary plan is being developed to cover high-risk individuals with pre-existing conditions until the full reforms go into effect in 2014

- Prevents insurance companies from placing lifetime limits on benefits

- Bans “rescission” so insurance companies can’t cancel coverage if individuals keep their policies current or if they become ill

- An individual’s out-of-pocket healthcare expenses are capped

- Closes the “donut hole” (Part D) for Medicare prescription drug coverage (under Bush, Medicare helped pay for drugs up to $2,600 and above $4,550, but individuals had to pay 100% of the costs in between these amounts); now Medicare helps cover costs irrespective of the amount – seniors will now pay only 25% of drug costs up to $4,550 and only 5% of drug costs above that amount

- In 2010, an emergency provision will offer seniors a $250 rebate on the costs incurred within the “donut hole”

- Individuals living at or below the poverty line were eligible for healthcare under Medicaid, but by 2014 individuals/families living slightly above (making up to $14,404/$29,327) the poverty line will also be eligible for benefits

- Individuals/families making less than $43,320/$88,200 per year will qualify for government subsidies to help purchase health insurance

- All individuals must have health insurance or face a government fine; all large (over 50 employees) employers must offer health insurance to employees or pay a fine

- Small businesses can get a tax credit if they offer health care

- There are hardship exemptions if individuals can’t afford health insurance

- Families can keep their children in college on their plans through age 26

- Promotes health insurance “exchanges” so consumers can buy “wholesale”

- Creates consumer assistance offices to help consumers file complaints or appeal decisions from insurance companies; beginning in 2011, insurance companies can no longer make excessive rate hikes without justification and approval, and those doing so may be barred from participating in new health insurance exchanges

Funding sources:

- Large employers (over 50 workers) that don’t offer health benefits will be charged a $2,000/worker fee; if the employer offers coverage but employees instead purchase federally subsidized insurance the fee is $3,000/worker receiving federal subsidies or $750/worker (whichever is lower)

- Annual fees on pharmaceutical companies ($27 billion), health insurance companies ($60 billion), and medical device-makers ($20 billion)

- Annual penalties on individuals who do not have health insurance (up to a maximum of $695/person)

- Increase in the Medicare payroll tax from 1.45% to 2.35% for individuals making $200,000+ and families making $250,000+

- 3.8% tax on unearned income for millionaires

- Insurance companies will be subject to a tax on each high-end insurance plan (so-called “Cadillac” plans) they offer

Miscellaneous:

- Illegal immigrants are not eligible for insurance or subsidies

- By Executive Order, such federal funding can’t be used for abortion

- The federal government will assist states by covering all of the increased expenses of expanding Medicaid coverage (90% of costs after 2020)

ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT

• Removed a ruling that now allows individual states to enact automotive fuel efficiency standards above federal standards (2009)

• Offered attractive tax write-offs for those who buy hybrid automobiles (2009)

• Overturned Bush-era rule that weakened the Endangered Species Act (2009)

• Announced plans to purchase fuel efficient American-made fleet for the federal government (2009)

• Ended the Bush-era policy of not regulating and labeling carbon dioxide emissions (2009)

• Signed a measure requiring energy producing plants to begin producing 15% of their energy from renewable sources (2009)

• Announced that the federal government would reengage in the long-delayed effort to clean up “Superfund” toxic waste sites (2009)

• Announced the long-term development of a national energy grid with renewable sources and cleaner, efficient energy production (2009) * Note: Much of Obama’s energy reform was killed by Senate Republicans

• Proposed a new refuge for wild mustangs (2009)

• Cancelled several Bush-era mountain-top removal and mining permits (2009)

• Reengaged in international treaties and agreements to protect the Antarctic (2009)

* Note: Bush had withdrawn from such efforts

• Asked Congress for an energy reform and “cap and trade” bill (2009) * Note: The Congress failed to pass such a bill

• Developing plan to lease US coastal waters for wind and water-current energy production (2009)

• Overturned Bush-era policies that allowed uranium mining near national parks such as the Grand Canyon (2009)

• Expanded the Petrified Forest National Park (2009)

• Signed the Omnibus Public Lands Management Act that protects millions of acres of scenic, historic, and recreational lands and trails (2009)

• Requiring that government buildings and facilities be retrofitted to save energy costs (2009) * Note: These green retrofits are moving very slowly

• Authorized studies in several western states to determine how to support large-scale solar installations (2009)

• Attended the Copenhagen talks and, after the talks were stalled, negotiated an international (voluntary) agreement on reducing carbon emissions and raising funds to assist developing nations in offsetting carbon emissions (2009)

• Banned importation of pythons in response to a growing population of pythons damaging the Florida Everglades (2009)

• Committing the federal government to increasing research and use of renewable, clean energy sources such as wind, biomass, etc. (2009)

• Executive orders establishing a federal initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in all federal operations (2009) (2010)

• Called for exploring the possibility of additional off-shore oil drilling in the Gulf, Atlantic, and off Alaska (but not in ANWR) (2010)

• Agreed to consider increases in nuclear energy production and requested a study on the feasibility of nuclear power plant construction (2010) * Note: Nearly all energy initiatives were defeated by Republican opposition in Congress

• Increased investment in clean energy projects (2010)

• Executive Order to develop a new strategy for and commitment to ocean and lake resources, and for scientific research on water quality (2010)

RIGHTS

• Instituted enforcements for equal pay for women (Lilly Ledbetter Bill) (2009)

• Appointed Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latina, to the Supreme Court (2009)

• Held the first Seder in White House (2009)

• Appointed a diverse Cabinet and diverse White House staff (2009)

• Spoke at the annual dinner of the Human Rights Campaign, a gay rights organization (2009)

• Signed the first major piece of federal gay rights legislation that includes acts of violence against gays under the list of federal hate crimes (2009)

• Reversed the Bush-era practice of politicizing Justice Department investigations and prosecutions against political opponents (2009)

• Pushing for some of the 9/11 perpetrators to be tried in federal court (2009) * Note: The process has moved at a snail’s pace and, in the face of opposition, Obama has remained quiet

• Signed an extension of the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Bill to provide federal research and support for treating the disease (2009)

• Allowed the State Department of offer same-sex benefits for employees (2009)

• Proposed that the Pentagon repeal the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy; placed a “freeze” on current efforts to remove alleged homosexuals from the military (2009)

• After eight years of neglect, the Justice Department and EEOC are again enforcing employment discrimination laws (2009)

• Convened the White House Tribal Nations Conference, inviting representatives from 564 federally-recognized Indian tribes (2009)

• Provided increased school projects for Indian lands and increased funds for the Indian Health Service (2009)

• Signed an Executive Order mandating that his Cabinet develop plans to work with and consult Indian tribes on issues impacting Indian lands (2009)

• Commissioned a study to develop alternatives to “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (2010)

• Called for federal agencies to look into recognizing gay partnerships in terms of benefits (2010)

• Signed an Executive Order for the President’s Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (2010)

• Increased funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (2010)

• Signed Executive Order to promote the federal government as a “model employer” when it comes to hiring the disabled (2010) * Note: This includes new efforts to increase the recruitment, hiring, and training for the disabled

• Programs to assist Spanish speakers with the US Census (2010)

• Elena Kagen appointed to Supreme Court (2010)

• Tasked all federal agencies to develop new strategies to address HIV/AIDS (2010)

• After organizing studies on the topic in 2009, tasked the Pentagon to eliminate “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (2010)

• Signed Fair Sentencing Act (2010) * Note: The Administration continues to deescalate marijuana interdiction and raids; increased dramatically the amount of cocaine one must possess to be sentenced to jail; eliminated mandatory sentencing for first-time drug abusers and simple possession

EDUCATION

• Authorized construction funds for high-speed, broadband Internet access in K-12 public schools (2009)

• Increased funding for school construction (2009)

• Increased funding available for student loans (2009)

• Expanded the national youth service program (2009)

• Streamlined the federal student loan process to save $87 billion over the next 10 years (2009)

• Changed the rule to allow students struggling to make college loan payments to refinance their loans (2009)

• Beginning discussions with Congress for education reform (2009) * Note: Much of Obama’s education reform has been sidelined by opposition in Congress

• Initiated a “Race to the Top” competitive federal grant program for states who develop innovative policies (2009)

• Instituted a “judgment review” allowing families with student loans to petition to have their current financial status determine the loan rather than the previous year’s finances (2009)

• Launched “Educate to Innovate,” a public/private partnership making $236 million available for science, mathematics, and technology education programs (2009)

• Proposed capping the maximum amount students must pay on student loans (as percentage of their income) (2010)

• Proposed reducing student loan obligations for individuals going to work in community and public service jobs (2010)

• The federal government will offer direct student loans, cutting out the cost of private banks (“middle man”) who increase the costs in order to make a profit (2010)

• Increased investment in technologies for schools/education (2010)

DISASTER RESPONSE

• Ordered a review of hurricane and natural disaster preparedness (2009)

• FEMA once again reports directly to the president (2009) * Note: Bush removed FEMA (prior to the Hurricane Katrina disaster) from this status

• Demonstrated an immediate and efficient response to the floods in North Dakota and other natural disasters (2009)

• Ordered that funds be released and red tape be streamlined for the ongoing Hurricane Katrina recovery effort in the Gulf Coast (2009)

• Timely and massive relief effort in response to the January 2010 earthquake and ensuing humanitarian crisis (2010)

Components of the response:

- The FBI’s National Center for Disaster Fraud was tasked to look into possible fraud with organizations soliciting funds for relief

- Announced the Clinton-Bush Haiti Fund

- Established an emergency Haiti Task Force in the State Department

- Established a website with information, resources, and a posting of a “person finder” online to help families and friends to locate loved ones

- Joint aid and relief planning with the U.K.

- Sponsored a resolution in the UN Security Council for additional security and police forces in Haiti

- Dispatched the US Navy floating hospital (USNS Comfort) and, within 5 days, 9 naval and relief ships, 5 Coast Guard cutters, 8 Coast Guard aircraft, and 12,000 US military personnel

- Initial dispatch of several ships and cargo planes full of humanitarian aid and supplies, 6 search/rescue teams (500 personnel), and 265 Department of Health & Human Services personnel for emergency medical and aid support

- Established a mobile US air traffic control center at the destroyed airport in Port-au-Prince

• After the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, a freeze was placed on new deep water projects (2010)

• Executive Order to establish new security measures to minimize accidental release of bio and chemical agents; new strategies for public health and bioterrorism response (2010)

• Established a national commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon spill to examine facts and report a plan of action; new efforts to prevent offshore spills (2010)

• After a slow start in responding to the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill, the White House is promoting a long-term plan to reconstruct the damaged Gulf and negotiated with BP the establishment of a multi-billion dollar trust fund for victims of the spill (2010)

• Extended national flood insurance program for those in need during current economic crisis (2010)

OTHER INITIATIVES

• New federal funding for science and research labs (2009)

• Signed national service legislation; expanded national youth service program (2009)

• Increasing opportunities in AmeriCorps program (2009)

• Instituted a new focus on mortgage fraud (2009)

• Ordered the DEA to stop raids on medical marijuana usage (2009)

• Ordered a review of existing “mandatory minimum” prison sentencing (2009)

• Signed an order to limit airport tarmac delays and the time passengers had to sit in the plane/on the tarmac during delays (2009)

• Restored the EPA to “Cabinet level” status (2009) * Note: Bush removed the EPA from this status

• Beginning discussions with Congress for comprehensive immigration reform (2010)

* Note: Much of Obama’s immigration reform had been stalled by opposition in Congress

• Commissioned expert panels and reports from NASA; announced a new direction for human space flight that involves funding a new heavy lift-launcher and jettisoning the Ares 1 program; boosting NASA’s budget by $1 billion in 2011 (2010)

• Ordered a ban on text-messaging for all commercial truck and bus drivers (2010)

• Signed bill – FAA Air Transportaiton Modernizatin and Safety Improvement Act (2010)

P.S. IN CASE YOU WERE WONDERING…

• The Obamas paid for the renovations of the private living quarters in the White House with their own money rather than using the funds provided to all new first families (2009)

• The Obamas reused many Christmas ornaments from previous White House trees rather than buy new ones (2009)

• The Obamas used LED energy-saving lights on White House Christmas tree (2009)

• Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize; donated the award money for the prize to several charities (2009)

• Planted a garden for the White House’s vegetables and flowers (2009)

• Installed a swing set/playground for the Obama daughters and children of White House employees (2009)

• Held over 150 public town halls, press conferences, interviews, etc. in first year in office (2009) * Note: Official numbers are not available on such things, but this seems to be a new record high

• Less than 30 days of vacation in first year in office (2009) * Note: Official numbers are not readily available on such things, but this seems to be a new record low

...And A FAMILY MAN !

NOW YOU CAN VOTE FOR PRESIDENT OBAMA! or were you just lying again!!

Poor Tommy, Always confusing activity with accomplishment.

Just a couple of Obama's GREATER accomplishments:

• Planted a garden for the White House’s vegetables and flowers (2009)

• Installed a swing set/playground for the Obama daughters and children of White House employees (2009)

IMPRESSIVE!

Looks like little Tommy just shot a hole in the libbie argument that the republicans blocked everything Pres. Yomama tried to do.

He did a lot. (A lot to hurt this country.)

BTW Rocco, you make a great point. Activity is not necessarily Accomplishment. Activity can move you backwards too. Libbies tend to forget (or ignore) that.

(show me the clown nose, fisty!)

Just what I thought! You were lying again! I put the garden and swing just to show you he is a great father too!

You prove to me that you are just another Tea-bagger/Republican filled with hate!!

Rocco & SOB

Poor Tommy, Always confusing activity with accomplishment.

Can either of you discern between activity & accomplishment?

Then you scream foul when the left calls you stupid.

You go Tommy!!! Teapublicans are killing this nation and we need action NOW!! How about a recall election for Congress?

TEA PARTY/ GOP EXTINCT 2012!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

OBAMA BIDEN 2012!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

you and your libos are the ones who can't face facts!

OBOMBO union thugs corrpution fast and furious healthcare

soylandra wall street and so much more! NOBOMBO 2012!

Thank you for your racist bigoted progressive comments.

Shows Blacks will even lose their jobs to keep this moron in power. And he isn't a REAL black American. His parents were never Slaves.

Bring in a REAL black American

His parents were never Slaves.

Just how many blacks who are alive today have parents who were slaves?

We'll be waiting... genius! lmao

this religious "nut" will pray for you.

Yet, here you are. Something inside you is yearning for the truth.

So there is going to be a Third Party Candidate this year?

Hey LEONA, Let me ask you this question? Who is gunning for the president to be a one term president and would prefer to see our nation fail than to work together?

You need to read the facts.

It doesn't take a person of your stature to figure this out, or maybe it does!

Your party is a ignorant party bottom line.

Instead of snarling about how much fed employees are paid (you're wrong, by the way), why don't you find out how you get one of those jobs? Congressmen love to get a job for one single constituent, they can get alot of political mileage out of getting one person a job. The congressman just doesn't want anything he does regarding a job, to look like a jobs program. Your congressman is supposed to be working for you, so call him up and get him to find you a good job.

66 - fact: most fed employees earn more in salary and benefits than someone with a comparable skill set in the private sector. That is fact. Look it up.

I have a job. It's my business that is being sucked dry by double taxation. Corp. tax on profits then I pay again on my 1040 because I have to carry over those profits to my 1040 as income.

And I wouldn't work for the gov. - too many leeches are already. The fed. workforce could be cut by 30% and still function.

rebelwcause you are dawn right!! he does have our support. Get over it!