About Contact Archives RSS Columns Photos

Saturday night politics and primary open thread; Update: Obama sweeps, Huck takes two; Texas Gov. Perry says fall in line

By Michelle Malkin  •  February 9, 2008 08:05 PM

Mitt Romney wins the CPAC straw poll after dropping out of the race.

Obama’s looking good in Omaha.

Comprehensive Semi Super Saturday coverage here.

Have at it.

***

Update: Obama sweeps three states–Washington, Louisiana and Nebraska.

Huck takes Kansas and Louisiana (CNN projects him the winner)–and leads in Washington:

Mike Huckabee swept to victory in the Kansas Republican presidential caucuses, beating his party’s presumptive nominee John McCain by a margin of almost 3-1, and led in Louisiana and Washington state.

With 81 percent of Louisiana precincts reporting, the former Arkansas governor had 45 percent of the vote to 41 percent for Arizona Senator McCain, making the race too close to call. Earlier today, Huckabee captured 60 percent of the vote in Kansas to 24 percent for McCain and 11 percent for Texas Representative Ron Paul.

Huckabee, challenging McCain for the party’s more conservative voters, said he won’t heed calls to pull out of the race, as former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney did last week. A candidate needs 1,191 delegates to win the Republican nomination, and McCain led with 719 delegates before today, according to the Associated Press.

The Kansas win gave Huckabee all 36 of that state’s delegates at stake today for a total of 234, the AP said.

“People across America are gravitating towards our campaign and realizing that there is still a choice,” Huckabee, 52, told reporters in Washington, D.C., after the Kansas votes were counted. “That’s what we’ve said all along: that this race is far from over.”

McCain cheerleader Rick Perry, Texas GOP governor, asks Huck to drop out.

Posted in: 2008 campaign

See what others have said

Note from Michelle: This section is for comments from michellemalkin.com's community of registered readers. Please don't assume that I agree with or endorse any particular comment just because I let it stand. A reminder: Anyone who fails to comply with my terms of use may lose his or her posting privilege.

Trackbacks

  1. PrestoPundit
  2. The TIW Blog » Blog Archive » Conservative inaction persists: Saturday Primaries & Caucuses
  3. Huckabee Wins 2 - per CNN « The McCain Mutiny
  4. The McCain Mutiny
  5. Unpartisan.com Political News and Blog Aggregator
  6. HILLARYNEEDSAVACATION
  7. AP, Malkin On CPAC Straw Poll at No Man’s Blog

Trackback URL

Comments

  1. #1
    On February 9th, 2008 at 8:12 pm, beenthere said:

    Looking at Huckabee’s triumph tonight, one is again struck by the fact that the GOP’s two best campaigners were also its two worst potential candidates, and its two best potential candidates (Thompson and Romney) were sadly its two worst campaigners. There has to be some kind of cosmic lesson or at least a moral for Conservatives there, but damned if I know what it is.

    Personally, if I were McCain, I would keep looking over my shoulder. This year has a long way to go, sad to say. Pray for the Republic.

  2. #2
    On February 9th, 2008 at 8:35 pm, THIRDWAVEDAVE said:

    Never thought McCain would win this one. This, too, says something about McCain’s support with the base. Less talk, more action.

  3. #3
    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:02 pm, zorro said:

    Thirty-one percent said that if John McCain were the GOP presidential nominee, they would either vote for someone else, or not vote at all.

    As I said over at Hot Air, at least I’m not alone…

  4. #4
    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:21 pm, Reg.conservative said:

    zorro. yes that jumped out at me . And you are far from alone.

  5. #5
    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:21 pm, ajmontana said:

    A quick drive by comment.
    And a true conservative should care why?
    C’mon Baseball Season!

  6. #6
    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:24 pm, zorro said:

    Thanks Reg., It’s nice to have company!

    Michelle alluded earlier that the coming days will be very telling for McCain vs the base. He can win us over not with words but with actions. Like introduce legislation to close the border…

  7. #7
    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:35 pm, Sergeant Tim said:

    Obama winning all 3 primaries means Bill better get to pimping.

    What? Like he wouldn’t.

  8. #8
    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:36 pm, dan708 said:

    You wonder if today’s Huckabee victory is the start of something big for conservatives. With Romney having stepped aside, the right wing may very well hitch its collective wagon to the Arkansas Gov.

  9. #9
    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:39 pm, alamedaman said:

    Paul is leading in the Washington caucuses.

  10. #10
    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:41 pm, Ombre Rose said:

    I saw the GOP pundits, Sean Hannity, saying that if McCain formed a board with Ted Olsen heading it to make a list of acceptable Conservative judges, that it would help get the Conservatives on board to vote for McCain.

    ROTFLTHH!!!

  11. #11
    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:46 pm, Ombre Rose said:

    On February 9th, 2008 at 8:12 pm, beenthere said:

    Huckabee had Kansas sewn up last year, when he went courting VOTES at a CHRISTIAN TEEN MISSIONARY CONVENTION that had a massive Kansas operation in full drove out for it. They let Huckabee have the microphone for about 15 minutes to say he was not out campaigning, and did some schlepping for his vision of illegal aliens being given THEIR voting rights. yada yada yada

    The MSM didn’t ever know anything about it and so tonight they are STUNNED by this BIG huckabee win.

    May 27th, 2007 THE CALL.

    First politician in the world to go ask Thuh Church “What is Gawd saying to His people!!!”

  12. #12
    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:48 pm, right_on said:

    I watched Karl Rove the other night explain on a white board that McCain only needs to win 40% of the remaining delegates. So, what happens if he only gets 30 to 35%? Will we have to have a “brokered” convention? Just curious.

    Would this be a way to get him to make concessions to the conservatives in the party who want to hold his feet to the fire?

  13. #13
    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:48 pm, Reg.conservative said:

    We have a conservative party in NY ,Started in 1962 , I started as a republican in 1957 changed to conservative in 1964. Older than dirt like mc Cain, I am 71. We should have a national party, have said so after Reagan.

  14. #14
    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:51 pm, Ombre Rose said:

    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:36 pm, dan708 said:
    You wonder if today’s Huckabee victory is the start of something big for conservatives. With Romney having stepped aside, the right wing may very well hitch its collective wagon to the Arkansas Gov.

    Huckabee is the same low-life as McCain.

    Why bother to choose between the two.

    Huckabee - wide open borders - feels America owes SLAVE REPARATIONS to ILLEGAL ALIENS - wants to take “health care issues from Dims with proposals like fat people and smokers cannot have medical attention - wants entitlements for illegal aliens - wants student grants to illegal aliens FIRST

    “Conservative”???????

    ROTFLTHH!

    Do whatever you think is right.

  15. #15
    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:52 pm, Speakup said:

    Man, I never thought I’d miss Rudy.
    So many of us were demanding a true Conservative and look what happened.
    Did somebody take it personally or what?

  16. #16
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:01 pm, RealImmigrantChick said:

    I can’t stand Huck, but at least what his wins tonight show is that the conservatives, when united are a force to be reckoned with, EVEN WHEN MANY HAVE GIVEN UP AND ARE NOT VOTING. Can you immagine what would have happened if all conservatives united behind Romney early enough and were not divided by the Huckster? McCain would have been a name of the past months ago. This just shows that McCain only has a small minority (about 1/3) of republicans and who knows how many are really republicans.

  17. #17
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:03 pm, madchef said:

    I have a question, what happens to campaign money once the candidate drops out of the race? Does he/she get to keep it? I had heard that Shillary started out with $40M that was left from her senate campaign so i was wondering, could the Huckster be staying in the race to build up his pot before he drops out?

    Okay, that was three questions.

  18. #18
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:14 pm, Mister P said:

    Geraldo is now saying that McCain is now the Republican candidate because of the hispanic vote (which he gets because of his shamnesty bill).

  19. #19
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:15 pm, Renee_VA said:

    Ugh! did you have to say Geraldo’s name (my migraine came back)

  20. #20
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:18 pm, Mister P said:

    Anybody else think Obama is going to run away from Hillary?

  21. #21
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:18 pm, RealImmigrantChick said:

    Well, we know that Huck is in it for the $ to an extent, at least in my opinion, since he is selling a book full force on talk radio. Maybe he is following, or hoping to follow the example of another former arkansas governor.

    P.S. TX primary is coming up, and since I am officially done with the GOP, and my vote there will not count anyway, I am voting in the dem primary for B.O.

  22. #22
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:19 pm, Gabe said:

    I’m surprised Michelle hasn’t had more CPAC coverage. I was there yesterday and today and the panels and speakers were terrific. Newt Gingrich and Tony Snow gave excellent speeches, but the best by far was John Bolton yesterday. He gave excellent reasons to support John McCain. Actually, everyone has at CPAC.

    It seemed the vast majority of the participants at CPAC decided they needed to support John McCain over Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton. When McCain is mentioned he gets a few boos here and there that are totally drowned out by cheers. Most conservatives by the end of CPAC knew that we need to support McCain over left-wing Hillary or Obama in order to support the troops.

    I thought the best panel (though most of them were excellent) was the one on “Is the Clinton Era Coming to an End?” with R. Emmett Tyrell, Amanda Carpenter, Dick Collins, and Kellyanne Conway. It was hilarious and very informative about Mrs. Clinton.

    Another terrific one was “Politics of Energy and Environment: Monumental Challenges and Monumental Myths.” The speakers totally blew away the myth of global warming.

  23. #23
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:19 pm, Mister P said:

    Now Geraldo is calling whites in Louisiana racists.

  24. #24
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:22 pm, madchef said:

    Yeah, but what happens to the campaign money? I know they don’t give it back.
    Does anyone know?

  25. #25
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:22 pm, Mister P said:

    Another terrific one was “Politics of Energy and Environment: Monumental Challenges and Monumental Myths.” The speakers totally blew away the myth of global warming.

    A myth accepted by McCain by the way.

  26. #26
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:26 pm, RealImmigrantChick said:

    Gabe, no offense, but I cannot and will not support McCain and neither will the rest of my large family (all conservative). I know his supporters were set up in front at CPAC and he has sent them out at CPAC, as they have popped up on this web site, but come on, do you honestly think he is supported by the conservative base? I don’t think so. He only got about 1/3 of the vote, even with the help of dems and independents. He will have to do a lot to redeem himself. Like Dr. Dobson said, he cannot vote for him and go against his conscience. No way, no how. McCain will have to show a lot of changes, not strong arming, and I doubt he will do that after 20 years of hating conservatives and to this day continuing to bash us and scare us to vote for him. I ain’t scared of Hill or B.O. for 4 years. Good luck in November.

  27. #27
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:39 pm, RealImmigrantChick said:

    McCain’s problems with conservatives, just a starter:

    1. putting his name on a brief against the Wisconsin right to life group (he did not have to get involved) and took it all the way to the Supreme Court, Right to Life won! Thank God

    2. voting against the ability to put to the AMerican people the marriage amendment

    3. voted for every embryonic stem cell research bill. Just go on any pregnancy website, like pregnancy.org (baby’s development on the right)and see what an embryo really is then tell me this guy is pro life.

    4. wants to close Gitmo, bring terrorist here and give them due process rights

    5. does not want ot allow waterboarding of scum terrorists, even if American lives would be saved.

    6. Anti-free speech

    7. pro-amnesty STILL (will secure the border FIRST, he claims, but then will support his soon to be back from the dead bill which would legalize probably about 20 mill illegals, even criminals (his bill does not provide for them to be sent back))

    8. will ruin more American businesses by imposing horrible environmental regs; have we not had enough businesses leave the US? I am tired fo the garbage being imported into the US and inability to find products made in the US anymore, cause of folks like McCain.

    9. Voted 2 times against tax cuts and I think only recently voted in a way that was anti-tax cuts or pro tax increase (if someone can refresh my memory)

    10. Voted to help out lawyers and hurt doctors with the falsely named patient’s bill of rights.

    11. He considered changing parties after he lost in 2000.

    12. He considered running with Kerry in 2004.

    13. He has said that Hillary Clinton will make a good president. Can you imagine the ads if she is the dem nominee? “My oponent thinks I will make a great President. Enough said.”

    There is more, but I am tired and anyone can feel free to add to my list.

  28. #28
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:40 pm, Gabe said:

    A myth accepted by McCain by the way.

    Well, we still need to work on him. However, I was at CPAC, and I and practically everyone else were convinced that he is better than Hillary or Obama. John Bolton, Tony Snow, Newt Gingrich, Rick Perry, and almost all of the other panelists and speakers stated that McCain is better than the alternative, especially in foreign policy.

    I love Ann Coulter, but the “suicide Republicans” were in (thankfully) a minority at CPAC. By now, we’ve realized that a McCain who is conservative on some issues (especially the War on Terror) is better than a Hillary or Barack Hussein Obama on NO issues. The emcee this afternoon gave a really powerful and passionate speech why it is nuts not to support McCain in a general election. Many other speakers did as well.

    By the way, the headline about the straw poll is misleading because many voted for Romney before Romney dropped out. The results of the straw poll of those who voted after he dropped out showed that McCain won.

  29. #29
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:41 pm, Reg.conservative said:

    RealImmigrantChick #26: I here you, they caved faster than I thought they would. the party people were on last night with big grin they will come around!!! I guess the rule of law is out the window.

  30. #30
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:42 pm, purplepeep said:

    zorro said:
    He can win us over not with words but with actions. Like introduce legislation to close the border…

    Yup, he’s got the office do that right now. He can easily do something tangible.

  31. #31
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:42 pm, Ombre Rose said:

    Fred Thompson - co-wrote McCain Feingold and does not regret it - wrote more of it than McCain did - appointed to Senate Committee to investigate Chinese GOVT contributions to Clinton campaign funds because of his Watergate prosecutor credentials AND MADE SURE HE DIVERTED IT TO NOT ACCOMPLISH A BLOOMING THING, and therefore the Clintons were not arrested for accepting CHINESE GOVT money for their American Election campaigns
    - as a former prosecutor and former WATERGATE prosecutor, he voted NOT GUILTY on BILL CLINTON’s PERJURY, insinuating it was only about sex - it was about the ABUSE OF POLITICAL POWER of a HIGH RANKING OFFICIAL who abused citizens - women, and used his authority unlawfully to escape legal consequences of it
    - DEPOSITION TAKEN BEFORE AN INTERNATIONAL BODY OF LEADERS WHO INFORMED OUR GOVT OFFICIALLY THEY WERE WATCHING TO SEE HOW AMERICA, THE WORLD’S POLICEMAN, TOOK CARE OF MATTERS OF JUSTICE AT HOME
    - Fred called it a TRIVIAL MATTER that Bill committed perjury in front of that world body of international leaders, LIVE on internationally LIVE BROADCAST TV.

    AND SAID OUR FOUNDING FATHERS would have said it did not rise to the level of IMPEACHMENT - a bald-faced lie.

    Ann Coulter - Fred voted against torte reform and voted against removal of Bill Clinton, and stands against a marriage amendment “because of Federalism” - October 8, 2007

    TRIED to defeat Megan’s Law

    Managed McCain’s 2000 Presidential Campaign

    “Plain-Speaking” About McCain-Feingold-Thompson
    By James Bopp, Jr.
    Friday, September 21, 2007
    “…
    ” The issue ad prohibition was not added by others, as he claimed, but was an essential feature of the campaign finance proposals he co-sponsored, voted for, and diverted his own Senate committee’s investigation to justify. In short, Senator Thompson devoted much energy in the Senate to gutting the First Amendment. …”

    Is Fred necessary?
    By George Will
    Thursday, September 13, 2007

    There are many more issues with Fred Thompson.

    I will not vote for a ticket that he is on.
    I certainly would not endorse him having anything to do with helping to pick Judges, either.

    ALL the Supreme Court Judges, including some that Bill Clinton himself appointed refused to come to the following State of the Union address after his impeachment, because they were so offended for the Judiciary Branch over the treatment of the issue of Perjury.
    It was the first time in history that all the court unanimously refused to attent the State of hte Union Address.

    But Fred calls it a “TRIVIAL MATTER” not rising to a level of important consideration by pour Founding Fathers.

    Samuel Adams - He therefore is the truest friend to the liberty of his country who tries most to promote its virtue, and who, so far as his power and influence extend, will not suffer a man to be chosen into any office of power and trust who is not a wise and virtuous man…The sum of all is, if we would most truly enjoy this gift of Heaven, let us become a virtuous people.

    Patrick Henry - Bad men cannot make good citizens. It is when a people forget God that tyrants forge their chains. A vitiated state of morals, a corrupted public conscience, is incompatible with freedom. No free government, or the blessings of liberty, can be preserved to any people but by a firm adherence to justice, moderation, temperance, frugality, and virtue; and by a frequent recurrence to fundamental principles.

    Associate yourself with men of good quality if you esteem your own reputation for ’tis better to be alone than in bad company.
    - George Washington

    Labor to keep alive in your breast that little spark of celestial fire called conscience.
    - George Washington

    It is better to offer no excuse than a bad one.
    - George Washington, letter to his niece Harriet Washington, October 30, 1791

    I have yet to find one of our Founding Fathers who would agree with Fred Thompson. It is bad enough that the worst of the Supreme Court Justices now sitting do not agree with him on the issue of Perjury and Impeachment.

  32. #32
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:44 pm, Renee_VA said:

    Nice to hear about all the great speeches as CPAC BUT still not voting for McCain. What do those speeches really mean? Nothing, just shows all those folks can compromise real good and will say whatever they have to to get anyone in the WH with an R behind their name(even if they have proven to deceitful and untrustworthy). Talk about prostituting oneself. They are short sighted and are failing to acknowledge the gross failure that will occur because of the collapse of any conservative principles in our government, and the party and its failure to stand for anything (sorry but the WoT is not an answer for something to believe in only).I’m sick of hearing how McCain will be strong on terror, strong on Iraq..blah, blah, blah. He will be useless. He won’t secure the border but he’ll fight a war overseas (supposedly). That’s like buying an alarm system for your front door, and having no back door on the house. That’s not tough, that’s stupid and beyond belief (and very much a liberal idea). If he was so much for securing the border, he would be the loudest one crying in the Senate right now, this very minute. He would be hounding GWB right now about getting rid of that useless Chertoff, who has accomplished absolutely nothing. Since he has done none of that, we can see he will do as much as GWB…. NOTHING (hear the crickets)???? It will be doubly worse because the remaining RINO’s in the Senate will just jump on his liberal idea bandwagon (you know how he likes to “reach across the aisle”). At least with Obama or Hillary, they might just fight.

  33. #33
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:45 pm, Papa Louie said:

    “My friends, this is your pilot, John McCain, speaking. If you look to the right of the plane, you can see the GOP compound coming up in the distance. Please put on your parachutes now and prepare to return to the GOP Reservation. When Fred opens the emergency door, just fall in line behind him, swallow your pride and your principles, and follow him out the door. He will lead you back.

    Yes, I know there’s a landing strip, but landing the plane would mean that I‘d have to come back too. I just can’t compromise my principles to do that. I’d rather stay above the fray. Besides, I’ve spent too much of my career reaching across the isle and developing my reputation as a maverick to risk it all now. So I’ll see you all later on the campaign trail, mi amigos. Fred and Rudy will take good care of you. Welcome back to the reservation!

    Hey Lindsey, are they all out of the plane yet? Good. I hope I dropped them off at the right spot. It’s been awhile, so I wasn’t sure if I could remember how to find the GOP compound. It looks a lot different than it used to.

    What? You think it looks like Guantanamo Bay? Oh well, I guess it doesn’t really matter. They’ll both be history in short order after Election Day. I guess we’ll just have to find some “undocumented” conservatives to replace the voters we lost.

    Hurry and shut the door, Lindsey! I need to turn this plane around and head back to D.C. before my hives get any worse. Remind me to bring my anti-itch cream if we ever plan to get this close to conservatives again.”

    (OK, now that I let off some steam I’m ready to hold my nose and vote for McCain, assuming he can get past Huckabee.)

  34. #34
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:46 pm, Mr_Conservative_Cat said:

    Ron Paul is apparently saying he won’t run as a third-party candidate. That’s good. We don;t need another goofy Ross perot screwing things up.

    On February 9th, 2008 at 9:24 pm, zorro said:
    Michelle alluded earlier that the coming days will be very telling for McCain vs the base. He can win us over not with words but with actions. Like introduce legislation to close the border…

    We generally assume that when someone already holding office runs, he won’t have the time to do anything else. This is a very good time to start shouting at media sources that if McCain wants to be the President, he better use his senatorial position now to demonstrate what he’ll do as President. He says he “got the message?” Good. Prove it. Instead of the straight-talk-express, it’s time for the “get-off-your-ass-and-show-us-express”.

    Personally, though, I’m not holding my breath. I feel what we’ll hear is more shrill noise about being held captive in ‘nam and lot’s of thumbs up while half the audience boos. Still, it’s him or Hillary or Obama, and Hillary and Obama will use their power like lightening to appoint judges and sign legislation to roll back the Reagan revolution as fast as they can, while they have the chance. This means anyone with any clarity of thought will be holding their nose and voting for McCain.

    That’s okay. We only need to be able to stand him for four years. The damage he’ll do in four years is miniscule compared to what Hillary and Obama have vowed to do, let alone what they might be planning and not telling the public at large.

  35. #35
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:49 pm, RealImmigrantChick said:

    Why are we still talking about Fred? I lost so much respect for Fred when he implied he supports McCain and when he fumbled his campaign and only interferred with many conservatives getting behind a candidate closer to us than the others.

    Oh, and Reg.conservative: I amNOT giving in. Many are not. Just look at the results tonight. I don’t like Huckster, but look at the ANTI-MCCAIN VOTES, even with the low turnouts; Huck will likely take all 3 states tonight.

  36. #36
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:51 pm, Ombre Rose said:

    IF YOU THINK THE MILITARY IS AN EXCELLENT REASON TO VOTE FOR McCAIN, then check out this entire article:

    http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,316957,00.html

    John McCain Wants to Create New ‘Crash Program’ to End Motivation to Torture
    Saturday, December 15, 2007

    E-Mail Print Digg This! del.icio.us
    COLUMBIA, S.C. — Republican White House hopeful John McCain said he wants “a crash program” in civilian and military schools that emphasizes language and creates a “new specialty in strategic interrogation” so the nation never feels the need for torture.

  37. #37
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:55 pm, Ombre Rose said:

    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:49 pm, RealImmigrantChick said:

    They keep forgetting that Fred managed McCain’s 2000 campaign and keeps repeating VERY OFTEN that McCAIN would make the very best President - and that Fred worked on McCain Feingold and did more writing on it than McCain did - and saved the Clinton’s from jail over the CHINESE GOVT FUNDING in their campaign, so he could get McCain Feingold PASSED.

    So they keep wishing he could be the new VEEP.

    “TWO OF A KIND, they’re “JUST SISTERS”!”

  38. #38
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:56 pm, Gabe said:

    I know his supporters were set up in front at CPAC and he has sent them out at CPAC, as they have popped up on this web site, but come on, do you honestly think he is supported by the conservative base? I don’t think so.

    I supported Romney and was going to vote for him in the primary in Virginia this week, but almost every speaker at CPAC supported McCain, now that he is the presumptive nominee. I now support McCain as well because the reasons to support him in a general election far outweigh the pathetic reasons to allow a Hillary or Barack Hussein Obama to become commander in chief for four years and give the terrorists a victory.

    I took the metro to CPAC today and yesterday and got in on a student pass (being a grad student in the evenings). There were a lot of supporters of McCain, but the vast majority of attendees did not initially support McCain, but have now that we know he is the nominee, including Gingrich, Bolton, Perry, just about everyone there.

    By the way, in the conference “Is the Clinton Era Coming to an End?” Dick Collins stated that the Clintons most fear McCain in a general election. Bill Clinton even was trying to trick voters not to support McCain in a primary by making up that McCain was extremely close to Hillary. It didn’t work, and they really fear McCain.

    That panel was terrific. I wish Michelle would post it.

  39. #39
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:59 pm, June said:

    The Texas primary is not until March. Our vote in the
    Republican primary is a useless vote. It is a fait acompli.
    In TX we have a voter registration card but we can vote in
    either primary. The poll people then stamp the date on your
    card so you cannot vote twice. I saw Carl Rove on Hannity and
    Colmbs last night explain how close the Dem delegates are and
    that the next primary states are going to net out equally for
    Obama and Clinton. I think we in Texas have a wonderful opportunity
    to go to those polls and vote for Obama and thusly make it even
    closer for them so they can fight at their convention. Then when
    their Super-delegates throw it to Clinton it will cause more
    discontent!
    This is what Jerry and I plan to do.

  40. #40
    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:59 pm, Ombre Rose said:

    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:45 pm, Papa Louie said:

    ROTFLTHH!! SO LOL! THAT IS HILARIOUS.

    uhem, though, you might want to read something like Numbers 16 and reconsider the wisdom in that famous command, “STAND CLEAR” - and just keep your head a little low until the dust clears, instead of being willing to be “counted in that number”.

  41. #41
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:00 pm, RealImmigrantChick said:

    Ombre Rose, I agree with you about Fred. I was being sarcastic with my first line. I also don’t like him as VP nominee at all. I would consider McCain if he picks Romney or some real hard core conservative as VP.

    P.S. How old is McCain?

  42. #42
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:01 pm, Ombre Rose said:

    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:46 pm, Mr_Conservative_Cat said:

    You do whatever you think is right.

  43. #43
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:02 pm, rightisright said:

    Mr. P, so your the guy that watches Whorealdo.

  44. #44
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:05 pm, T J Green said:

    Unhappy with McCain? Vote Huck and let the Twin Cities convention sort it out. It’s exactly what Reagan would do because it’s exactly what Reagan did (1976).

  45. #45
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:07 pm, Ombre Rose said:

    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:00 pm, RealImmigrantChick said:

    Sorry, I usually try to make sure I read slowly so I catch the drift! LOL!

    When you get to looking around desperately for alternatives…. John Bolton has been on my shortlist for WRITE-INS for November, then I read in this thread just seconds ago that HE is endorsing McCain.

    UGH! I consider that a BETRAYAL.
    hehehehehe

    Son of Cain was born August 19, 1936???????

    Strange, makes him younger than my mother by 2 years???? I didn’t think he was that young.

    I’m sure he wouldn’t lie about his age or anything like THAT…. :)

  46. #46
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:07 pm, TK-421 said:

    @3 bad move, that give Hillary and Obama the win. Well maybe good if you know of some Sniper in lurkings for that. I mean Hucks got no chance, mainly given his deep religious convictions, in this Era he makes sure he’ll lose the whole North East and CA. Which very funny in a manner acount more for our elections than the rest of the nation.

    Also MacCain isn’t my first choice, and many of you don’t worry about it as you think in 2012 we will get another shot. What if you don’t? What if the current dem runners put us into the ground? Do not let arrogance of simingly American invulnerablity blind you.

  47. #47
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:11 pm, RealImmigrantChick said:

    I am wondering about his age for other reasons: people all over the US will. I wonder how long he can last in office if elected. That office tends to age even the likes of bill clinton.

    By the way, Ombre Rose, don’t be sorry. I re-read my comment. It missed the sarcasm part big time. I am sorry. John Bolton is out for me too, after reading the above. McCain and his folks will have to DO a lot to get me back.

  48. #48
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:12 pm, Papa Louie said:

    My problem, Ombre Rose, is that by not voting for McCain we would be allowing a Democrat to appoint Supreme Court justices, hire State Dept. employees, and entrench themselves in D.C. over the next 4 to 8 years. I just can’t see another good way around it.

  49. #49
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:20 pm, rightisright said:

    Papa Louie, and what is it that makes you think he will nominate and or appoint anyone more conservative than moderate. The State dept. is already bright blue, don’t see that he will make it any less blue. Our best hope is a solid conservative as vp and keep if not gain in the legislature…where our real power is in the 1st place.

  50. #50
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:31 pm, Renee_VA said:

    Do not let arrogance of simingly American invulnerablity blind you.
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:07 pm, TK-421 said:

    Well, don’t let the blind arrogance of following McCain and his lack of doing nay of the things you think he will blind you. I think I have the proof of his record already on my side. I know what the enemey is going to do (Hillary or Obama, I can prepare, so can you). McCain, well they do call him Maverick for nothing (I can see his biggest scam coming…suckering the Republicans into buying his double talk… he will be the darling of the media…which he loves anyway).

    Nope scare tactics about Hillary, Obama, and the dems don’t work. the republicans have no one to blame but themselves for continuously voting for RINO’s and thinking they will get another outcome. Continuously voting for the better of two evils out of fear…gets you… evil.

  51. #51
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:32 pm, Renee_VA said:

    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:31 pm, Renee_VA said:

    I meant they don’t call him Maverick for nothing

  52. #52
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:34 pm, Jim M. said:

    In response to the questions on what happens to the campaign money at the end of the election, the candidates get to keep it. When they “retire” from public office, any monies in their campaign funds are theirs.

    remember that John Kerry took a lot of heat from his fellow democrats for not donating his excess campaign funds to the party (as if any of the others would do that). I also remember when Gary Condit left office, there was some angst over the fact that he kept all of his finds as well.

    They also tend to employ family members as full salaried employees out of their campaign funds.

    It would be “interesting” to see what Congress would do with the introduction of a law that required any leftover campaingn funds to revert to the US Treasury to pay down the public debt. And while we’re at it, make them give up those nice retirement packages and health benefits in lieu of social security and medicare, just like every other American. Right now, if I recall correctly, they receive I believe almost their entire Congressional salary after serving a term or two, payable not at age 65 but immediately after leaving office.

  53. #53
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:35 pm, Ombre Rose said:

    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:11 pm, RealImmigrantChick said:
    I am wondering about his age for other reasons: people all over the US will. I wonder how long he can last in office if elected. That office tends to age even the likes of bill clinton.

    By the way, Ombre Rose, don’t be sorry. I re-read my comment. It missed the sarcasm part big time. I am sorry. John Bolton is out for me too, after reading the above. McCain and his folks will have to DO a lot to get me back.

    Me, too for mine!

    So if I didn’t offend you too big time the way I answered, I hope I didn’t - I do that a lot to myself because I get too busy trying to get all my little rabbit trails tucked inside that I think explain where I am going…
    And so seldom do….

    hehehehe :)

  54. #54
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:37 pm, News2Use said:

    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:42 pm, Ombre Rose said:

    Care to tell just what you really think about Fred?
    And have you heard a rumor that Fred puts his pants on - left leg first? Sure don’t want anything to do with someone that does that.

  55. #55
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:37 pm, TK-421 said:

    @49 Like I said I don’t like him. However I know what Hillary will do and what Obama will as well. However I have no illusions on the 2nd Addmendment mattering. A Rifle won’t stop a tank, and a pistol won’t a bunker wall. It may be good as an assassins weapon on the rulling party, but as far as overthrowing the state, don’t count on it. I don’t like MacCain at all, but unlike Hillary he has no friends in important positions in Congress or the house. Hillary has both, so both are evil, but who is the greater threat?

  56. #56
    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:57 pm, Ombre Rose said:

    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:12 pm, Papa Louie said:
    My problem, Ombre Rose, is that by not voting for McCain we would be allowing a Democrat to appoint Supreme Court justices, hire State Dept. employees, and entrench themselves in D.C. over the next 4 to 8 years. I just can’t see another good way around it.

    &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&

    McCain’s campaign manager is Warren Rudman that gave us DAVID SOUTER. His 2000 Campaign manager is Fred Thompson who voted LEFT of the entire Supreme Court on Bill Clinton’s PERJURY.

    LEFT OF THE UNANIMOUS STANCE OF THE SUPREME COURT, including David Souter and Ruth ginsburg. LEFT of THEM on Perjury.

    McCain has to appoint a judge of a DEFINITION of “CONSERVATIVE” that will uphold Roe V Wade, McCain Feingold, McCain Kennedy Shanmensty - AND MUST OVERTURN GITMO, AND GIVE GITMO PRISONERS FULL CITI ZENSHIP RIGHTS OF AMERICANS BEFORE CIVILIAN COURTS - in order for the judge to NOT OVERTURN JOHN McCAIN HIMSELF!

    HOW are the Democrats going to beat THAT for Liberalism??????

    What WE need to worry about is the LEGAL DEFINITION of a VOTE - THAT YOU STAND BEHIND AND BACK EVERYTHING HE DOES WITH HIS AUTHORITY WHICH YOU GAVE HIM WITH YOUR VOTE.

    John McCain is touching things NEVER SUCCESSFULLY TOUCHED by any politician TO DATE INCLUDING THE DIMS - MCCAIN FEINGOLD ALONE far surpasses The STAMP ACT and makes the STAMP ACT fade into utter oblivion.

    Is it possible that the God who tried to deal with Jimmy Swaggart in PRIVATE but who refused to “BE DEALT WITH” then got landed an eye-opening view of himself in PUBLIC - THAT SAME GOD is going to NOT TOUCH John McCain who has for ALL AMERICAN HISTORICAL PURPOSES is in the most unique position of ANY AMERICAN OR OTHER HISTORICAL POLITICIAN ON THE PLANET, for that matter - 9 MONTHS TO THE DAY from the stepping aside of Mitt Romney to Nov.7 ELECTION DAY 2008 - McCain STANDS ALONE.
    Still having refused to consider his own heart PRIVATELY - still utterly determined TO TOUCH DESTRUCTIVELY the things God cares most about - perverting EVERY LAST NATURAL FUNCTION OF AMERICA from its healthy use -
    GOD has removed everything from the stage (Huckabee is a fly on the wall of no consequence).

    Nine months of utter and total silence.

    NOTHING LIKE THIS IN AMERICAN HISTORY - the lone candidate of the most moral party is absolutely without a moral compass, YET ALSO WITHOUT COMPETITION.

    The calm before the PERFECT POLITICAL STORM….

    You want to NOT WORRY about WHO TO VOTE FOR - they have all been removed - for a special reason…

    (Think of some genuinely Conservative person, who, UNLIKE HUCKABEE - has CHARACTER - for a WRITE-IN candidate.)

    There will be no “trips around the mountain” for a lesson refused to be learned THIS TIME. This ain’t “School time” - this is CULLING TIME.

    This is time to find a place to hang on tight and be as far from the epicenter John McCain as it is possible to get.
    and get you an anchor unlike a sort you have ever needed before.

    DO NOT OUT YOUR NAME ON A CANDIDATE YOU DO NOT WANT TO ANSWER FOR BEING ACCOUNTABLE YOURSELF FOR HIS ACTIONS IN THAT OFFICE! -Numbers 16-

    2 Chronicles 7:14 - if God cannot take care of the nation, for us, since there is “NOTHING MORE THIS ASSEMLY CAN DO TO SAVE THE UNION”…

    There is nothing we can do but throw ourselves into the center of God Himself and hang on for dear life.
    It is going to be a bumpy ride, folks.

    THIS is NOT business as usual in ANY sense of the word.

  57. #57
    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:08 am, Ombre Rose said:

    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:37 pm, News2Use said:

    :) Is it MY FAULT that the LEFTIES on the SUPREME COURT are all to the RIGHT of Fred Thompson?

    That Fred Thompson had the Clintons in his sights for FELONY CHARGES, twice, and Fred went with the DIMS to make sure they got off SCOTT FREE???? LEAVING THEM TO ROAM AROUND SEARCHING FOR HIGHER OFFICE, TODAY?????

    Do you want me to pretend that the Founding Fathers would make nice with Fred over such issues????

    If all that he does seems right to you - then by all means, vote accordingly.

    As for me and my house….

  58. #58
    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:13 am, roydee43 said:

    There seems to be some issues from his POW days that are just now re-surfacing.

    I do not know about the credibility of this group. If half of this is true it will be very damaging.

    http://www.vietnamveteransagainstjohnmccain.com/

  59. #59
    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:13 am, Kevin K. said:

    As a conservative, I’m tired of holding my nose and voting. I did it the last two elections as President Bush was better than the alternatives, although not my ideal candidate. But McCain is too much–I can’t do it.

  60. #60
    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:28 am, Ombre Rose said:

    On February 9th, 2008 at 11:12 pm, Papa Louie said:
    My problem, Ombre Rose, is that by not voting for McCain we would be allowing a Democrat to appoint Supreme Court justices, hire State Dept. employees, and entrench themselves in D.C. over the next 4 to 8 years. I just can’t see another good way around it.

    Papa Louie, believe me, I am at least as deeply concerned as are you.

    Could I hate Fred Thomspon so much if it were not so?

    Unfortunately, the means of remedy ARE NOT TO BE in our hands, this year.

    We are in fact left with ONE THING ONLY.

    The closest thing in ALL AMERICAN HISTORY is the assembly with which the Sons of Liberty and American colonists were fiercely pleading with ALL the King’s delegates of the day, pleading with EVERYTHING - and had been told by the King’s men - THE ONLY GROUNDS THAT YOU HAVE ARE TOTAL SURRENDER INCLUDING EVERY LAST WEAPON, even those vital to your existence for hunting and fighting off predatory animals from your family and your livestock and crops - AND SURRENDER ALL to the King, not as CITIZENS OF ENGLAND, but as SLAVES, with no rights of citizenship - but only as Royal Subjects.

    Finally, after all avenues were exhausted, they mounted one last attempt at negotiation, one last assembly with the King’s men - at after an excruciating day of working as hard as possible on an agreement still being met with the same message, one of the men, I think Samuel Adams??? announced as a pre-set signal, “THIS ASSEMBLY CAN DO NOTHING MORE TO SAVE THE UNION!”

    We learned of this in our school days, many decades ago, remember?

    THIS ASSEMBLY CAN DO NOTHING MORE TO SAVE THE UNION.

    What else in our entire history compares to this day, when ALL candidates who could answer to such as the choice before us which goes against EVERYTHING America has EVER stood for.

    CPAC 1975 - Ronald Reagan.

    2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

    We have nothing else in our hands.

    Other than that, I highly recommend that you consider the very ominous clouds over the situation of John McCain, the unique situation in all of American politics that he now reposes in -

    AND “STAND CLEAR!”
    Get into a position of HAVING A COMPLETELY CLEAN CONSCIENCE and hang on tight!

  61. #61
    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:34 am, Patchthebun said:

    May I just say I am almost glad I can’t vote (I’m a legal alien, from England).

    I’ve enjoyed reading these posts everyone! Time to snuggle up with my little girl before church in the morning.

    http://www.needgod.com

  62. #62
    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:34 am, Ombre Rose said:

    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:13 am, Kevin K. said:
    As a conservative, I’m tired of holding my nose and voting. I did it the last two elections as President Bush was better than the alternatives, although not my ideal candidate. But McCain is too much–I can’t do it.

    Oddest thing happened to me a week before CPAC - and I got a clean conscience and contentment.

    They can do as they will, I am content to let them go their own way, and let it be.

    Where can they shove you with a weapon of Fear, if you have peace with your decision to do what is right in your guts.

    Would you work so hard to force yourself to allow that man in the van to hand your child a bag of candy, because it isn’t fair to tell your child “NO”?

    When has your gut instinct betrayed you last?
    It doesn’t - even when you don’t see a reason for it or understand, and you cannot explain it, and you cannot put your finger on it.

    Find the decision that gives you peace in your guts.

  63. #63
    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:35 am, BOB said:

    As I said before, after spending months sending faxes, letters, e-mails, and making phone calls to help defeat Shamnesty…now I’m suppose to vote for the guy who, along with Ted Kennedy, wrote the piece of crap?

    No way that’s gonna happen.

  64. #64
    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:36 am, Ordinary Coloradan said:

    I’ve been hammering you peopel to get off this “beat up McCain” crap you are doing and redirect yourself towards the congressional state adn lcoal races, getting conservatives elected, and getting conservative planks on the GOP platform.

    And guess what - Rush Limbauch is saying the same thing.


    you’re going to have to focus on here to keep the country from moving left is to focus on House and Senate races, support as many Republican conservatives in both the House and Senate in your state as you can and try to limit the so-called vast increases the Democrats are expecting in this presidential election. Look, our nominee is who he is. If he gets elected, he loves walking across the aisle dealing with Democrats on a number of different things, they’re going to be the majority. Presidents like to get things done, defined as walking across the aisle and doing legislation that both parties think is hunky-dory. It is what it is. The only way it can be limited is if there are enough conservative Republicans in the House and Senate to prevent voting majorities from bill after bill after bill.

    Stop WHINING, and get working!

    And if youare interested, Bill Quick has started:

    http://www.americanconservativeparty.org

    Its an attempt to band conservatives together for better leverage - inside and outside the GOP.

    Stop whining about McCain and go do something, if you have the courage to ACT on your principles instead of just posting ineffective useless emotional bashes at McCain.

  65. #65
    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:54 am, Mr_Conservative_Cat said:

    Ombre Rose,

    Ombre, Ombre, Ombre,

    Once again this board finds you attempting to hold court with the other contributors, condemning all other points-of-view in the name of Country, God’s will and seemingly the threat of being turned into a pillar of salt.

    This you do with endless CAPS, in gross disrespect to our host who at least on one occasion specifically asked you not to. You must be a real party in real life.

    Cutting to the chase, I’ve asked you a question twice and both times you skirted the issue entirely, though you have plenty of time and energy to confront others. Since it’s obvious we have your full attention tonight, Dear Ombre, before you make this board look like a place of wild-eyed zealots to the rest of the outside world, let me ask you this simple question once again.
    This time, I won’t ask for the specifics, because that just invites non-sequitor rants. Just give me and everyone on this board a straight Yes or No answer. Just Yes or No. No responses of “it isn’t that simple, here’s his record, bla bla bla”, “God wants this and God wants that, ad infinitum.”

    Just Yes or No, okay? I don’t want the core of your response to be obfuscated by a long and meandering tirade.

    Just Yes or No:

    If you don’t actively support the candidate you dislike so badly on the Republican side, and the opposition wins, and the opposition postures and gives orders which make us weak and vulnerable and 80,000 people are killed in a major city by a dirty bomb, and many times that made ill and debilitated, can you still look at yourself in the mirror and say, “I was right to vote my conscience, and I’d do it again”

    You’ve certainly maintained yourself as a highly visible poster on this board, so I’m sure right now everyone on this board would be very interested in your Yes or No answer to what is absolutely an entirely fair question.

  66. #66
    On February 10th, 2008 at 1:02 am, Reg.conservative said:

    CPAC ! I will consider them dead from now on . If you believe he will change,lots of luck.

  67. #67
    On February 10th, 2008 at 1:05 am, Mookie said:

    WHAT’S WITH THE TYPING IN ALL CAPS?? DID AN ILLEGAL ALIEN STEAL YOUR CAPS LOCK KEY??

  68. #68
    On February 10th, 2008 at 1:13 am, NBF said:

    I think if McCain gets nominated, it won’t be too long before folks see him trail badly in the polls and decide to vote for a conservative third party.

    The question is, just how badly does McAmnesty have to trail in the polls before the “nose holders” let go of their noses and vote for their first pick? The whole GOP base could go Maaaaaverick.

  69. #69
    On February 10th, 2008 at 1:14 am, NBF said:

    P.S. And by “go Maaaaverick” I don’t mean voting for McCain. :)

  70. #70
    On February 10th, 2008 at 2:59 am, graysonret said:

    OmbreRose, I think you were referring to the attempts to have the tea sent back to England, which the sea captains agreed to, but was blocked by Gov. Hutchinson, in 1773. No demands to be slaves or give up weapons. We loved our “smuggling” and didn’t want to give it up. So, on Sam Adams signal, a group threw the tea overboard. England responded with the “intolerable acts”, setting the stage for the eventual confrontation in Lexington. Here was one time where a “radical” Massachusetts actually did some good. There were other “tea parties” but not as famous as the Boston one. In today’s terms it would be a “mob riot” rather than an All-American assembly.

  71. #71
    On February 10th, 2008 at 3:21 am, gayle said:

    Those that insist McVain will be strong in defending our country against terrorists;

    I would think the sealing the borders FIRST would make us believe.

    The terrorist in planes I fear less than those walking/driving across the borders.

  72. #72
    On February 10th, 2008 at 3:37 am, Mr_Conservative_Cat said:

    Graysonret, Not to dispute you, or take away from our need to find out where Ombre Rose, the loudest voice on this blog, stands with a yes or no answer to that question, but additionally:

    2:59 am, graysonret said:
    In today’s terms it would be a “mob riot” rather than an All-American assembly.

    The “terms”, and who sets and defines them, is really our problem on the right. We all know it, no one needs additional examples. But if ever there was a time for a New York Media Party, in which a broadcast studio full of high-def cameras and chic designer lav mics were thrown into the Hudson River to protest a media contemptuous of our rights and their ethical responsibilities, now is that time.

    No new thoughts or information in this post, just something of which we all need to be continually aware. For as much effort as is put into bashing McCain (I’m no fan), twice as much needs to be put into bashing the media, because if it wasn’t for the left-leaning media, the world would be a different - and better - place. And yes, McCain would not be the Republican frontrunner.

    Many conservatives accept the current state of left-leaning media. They shouldn’t, any more than they should embrace whomever the media tells them to embrace simply because the media told them to (there may be other reasons for embracing whomever the media annoints, but not because they told us to.)

    When, I wonder, will the right wing of this country make a serious socio-political assault on the media? Every year we see the media erode our values, our choices and our lives more and more. Hillary, Obama and to a lesser extent McCain are the cancer, the tumors which threaten the very life of this country’s moral body, but the media is the cause. When, I wonder, will we take up arms and cure this nation of that ill?

  73. #73
    On February 10th, 2008 at 3:47 am, graysonret said:

    Thanks, C-Cat. The 2nd amendment is just for that purpose. A little “tea throwing” might do us some good, these days. if we can “tolerate” the “Intolerable Acts” the government in D.C., is sure to pass. LOL.

  74. #74
    On February 10th, 2008 at 4:25 am, graysonret said:

    Meanwhile, on the democratic campaign front, Old Hillary is crying again. Maybe donators should send cases of kleenex instead of money? That’s all we need on the international front, a weeping President.

  75. #75
    On February 10th, 2008 at 6:53 am, Radiojoe1470 said:

    It seems to me right now that the best scenario we can hope for is Hillary as President, and enough strong willed Republicans in the House and Senate to make certain she gets nothing done, including blocking every appointment.

    One of the most firm rules of the game in politics is what goes around comes around. Look at the list of judges the Dems have held up. There’ll be enough Republicans in congress to do the same.

    On a lighter note, the most amusing thing in the Hillary years would be watching McCain try to convince his “fellow Republicans” to compromise.

    My biggest fear is Hillary doesn’t win the nomination. I fear what bills would pass, what judges would be appointed, and what foreign policy mistakes would be made then; all in the spirit of unity. We’d be one big happy Obama-nation.

  76. #76
    On February 10th, 2008 at 6:59 am, Ragspierre said:

    I read the use of the term “suicide Republicans” on this and other threads, and found it deeply ironic.

    People are treating this as though there is a chance McCain can win.

    He can’t.

    Dick Morris be damned, he is the weakest of the Republican contenders. Why?

    Think about John Kerry and Gephardt and lots of others coming forward during a strategically timed moment and telling the tale of how McCain has flirted with being a turn-coat…becoming a Dimocrate or running with one in a national election.

    Not once, but several times.

    That is the king-daddy of all flip-flops. In defense, he will lie. He will be seen to lie. Republican candidates (even in name only) are not allowed to lie a la Clinton.

    That is one reason he cannot win. There are dozens of others.

    And the nominating process we have allowed to devolve to this point has given him to us; he’s the “standard bearer”.

    Now, anyone who wishes to can find excellent reasons to fight against a Dimocrate victory in the general. They abound. There is no question about that.

    You can rally to your “standard bearer”. I have in the past. I voted for Dole, knowing that if we had nominated someone stronger Clinton could be beaten.

    I just respectfully submit that actual conservatives have a rare crisis/opportunity in this moment. We have a candidate who cannot win. We have a candidate who should not win. We have a “standard bearer” who is unworthy…not just weak like Dole…unworthy of our vote or support.

    We have a party with which we are aligned, and it is broken. To be fixed, it has to be told it must be fixed, or it faces consequences.

    None of us changes behavior if it is decoupled from consequence.

    I submit that this election cycle, we can tell the GOP it is doing OK by us…

    or we can tell it it’s broken, and must be fixed…

    because we’re mad as hell, and won’t take it anymore…

    It is for each of us to decide which way seems more like suicide.

    For my part, making a reasoned choice to fight to vindicate right is not suicide.

    But that’s just me…

  77. #77
    On February 10th, 2008 at 7:24 am, Rinoalert said:

    Huck may be or last hope for a brokered convention.

    Thank you, Huck. Proving real Republicans can’t pull the lever for McCain the traitor.

  78. #78
    On February 10th, 2008 at 8:04 am, Renee_VA said:

    I find it ironic also they call us who refuse to vote for the lesser of two evils “suicide Republicans”. Ironic because, they are willing to drink the poisoned RINO kool-aid that the GOP is dishing out. Now who’s committing suicide?
    Sorry folks, “Anyone but Hillary” syndrome is beginning to look a lot like “Bush Derangement Syndrome”. It blinds you to how serious McCain’s “flaws” (and that’s being nice) really are and his true nature and how damaging he really will be to the country as a whole (to include national security and Iraq). McCain is worse than a “woman scorned”. He’s vindictive and childish. Sorry I don’t vote for children and scorned women for President.

    Just another sign that it is time for a third party, the demise of the Republican party is at hand.

    I will say it again, continuing to vote for the lesser of two evils gives you, nothing to choose from but evil. The Republican’s have no one to blame but themselves and those who continue to vote for RINO’s can’t blame anyone but themselves because they are scared to do the hard work of standing behind their beliefs which they claim are best for the country, but they do that which is the worse for the nation (vote fore a deceitful liar). The Republicans lips say they are all for their principles and values and beliefs (which they claim or best for the nation) but when their back is against a wall, they can be bought, they will compromise. So much for your beliefs.

    It’s all pretty pathetic but not a surprise due to the nature of the country. Compromise and “let’s go along to get along” is the mood of the day.

  79. #79
    On February 10th, 2008 at 8:08 am, Renee_VA said:

    On February 10th, 2008 at 6:59 am, Ragspierre

    Double Ditto!!

  80. #80
    On February 10th, 2008 at 9:24 am, Ragspierre said:

    Thank you, Renee. I am flattered, and heartened to see I am not alone.

    I respectfully disagree with you on the third party idea…at least under anything like the current dynamics. The GOP, with all its known flaws, is the wheezing buggy we have to drive into the future. We just have to tune it up and steer it right. It is still very serviceable.

    I fell in…and out…of love with a third party a couple of decades back. I still blame Ross Perot in part for the Clinton years.

    For some structural reasons, coming mostly from the Constitution, we have a strong bias in our system for two…and only two…really viable parties.

    Ours is not a system that would do coalition government well.

  81. #81
    On February 10th, 2008 at 9:37 am, Radiojoe1470 said:

    I’m not so sure McCain couldn’t win, especially against Hillary. There are Democrats and certainly many independents who simply won’t vote for Hillary, and it’s pretty difficult to figure if that number is higher than the number of Republicans who won’t vote for McCain.

    History indicates it’ll be a close election no matter who the nominees are.

  82. #82
    On February 10th, 2008 at 9:46 am, Gabe said:

    McCain cheerleader Rick Perry, Texas GOP governor, asks Huck to drop out.

    I was at CPAC yesterday and I disagree that Gov. Perry was a “cheerleader” of McCain. There were few “cheerleaders” of McCain at CPAC.

    However, almost all the speakers at CPAC stated they would strongly support McCain in a general election. At Gov. Perry’s speech he supported McCain over Obama and Clinton, but other than that he was not a “cheerleader” for McCain. I was at the speech, which was received very enthusiastically by those attending.

    “People across America are gravitating towards our campaign and realizing that there is still a choice,” Huckabee, 52, told reporters in Washington, D.C., after the Kansas votes were counted. “That’s what we’ve said all along: that this race is far from over.”

    The results sound a little suspicious to me. I’ll bet anyone huge amounts of liberals went to the polls to vote for Huckabee in the Republican primaries because the Clintons feel that McCain is a huge threat but Huckabee would be beaten easily in a general election.

    The panelists in the conference “Is the Clinton Era Coming to an End?” at CPAC discussed how the Clintons fear McCain.

    Huckabee is far worse and more of a threat to the GOP. Huckabee is not only anti-Mormon, he is anti-Catholic. He poses as a conservative but is actually very liberal. He believes in global warming and placed a Mexican consulate in Little Rock. He was endorsed by the NEA. Phyllis Schafly has written that he destroyed the Republican party in Arkansas.

    The difference between McCain and Huckabee? Everyone knows McCain is a “maverick,” but Huckabee is known as a “conservative,” despite his very liberal positions. Therefore, he is much more of a threat to the conservative cause, and plus won’t win the election this November. I noticed he had very little support at CPAC.

  83. #83
    On February 10th, 2008 at 9:49 am, Snowmonster said:

    I’ve decided that since there is no real choice for President (i.e. McCain and a Lefty to be named later), that I will run for president! I am trying to create the “Time Out Party” whose position is to veto everything that comes to the President’s desk. This will put both parties on notice that we want better candidates. See the details at http://tomsnow.serveblog.net/. Join me in putting both parties in the corner to think about it!

    Tom Snow

  84. #84
    On February 10th, 2008 at 10:15 am, Jim M. said:

    On February 10th, 2008 at 8:04 am, Renee_VA said:
    I will say it again, continuing to vote for the lesser of two evils gives you, nothing to choose from but evil. The Republican’s have no one to blame but themselves and those who continue to vote for RINO’s can’t blame anyone but themselves because they are scared to do the hard work of standing behind their beliefs which they claim are best for the country, but they do that which is the worse for the nation (vote fore a deceitful liar). The Republicans lips say they are all for their principles and values and beliefs (which they claim or best for the nation) but when their back is against a wall, they can be bought, they will compromise. So much for your beliefs.

    Bravo!

    It is a travesty that half of the country was not given the opportunity to vote for a Republican candidate before the GOP powers that be presumed to annoint McCain as the candidate for the Party. McCain was losing badly among conservative voters. While he apparently appealed to independent voters and Reagan Democrats, he was not running as an independent or a moderate Democrat - he was running as a Republican.

    The party should be duly ashamed that (1) they could not produce a slate of acceptable candidates for the primaries and (2) that they have attempted to usurp the constitutional right of their party members to vote for a Presidential candidate. They should be ashamed, but the party is run by shameless politiccal hacks.

    Now we have no choice? If we don’t back McCain the world is going to end? Are those not questions that should have been addressed in fielding candidates for President in the first place? Don’t blame the voters for this dilema - the blame belongs squarely on the shoulders of the party.

    Time for a reality check - McCain will be a one term President of elected. He is over 70 years old today. And there are those of us that believe that a McCain administration has a high likelihood of alienating not only democrats but conservatives as well. If we have 4 years of a bad McCain administration, it will likely be followed by at least 8 years of democrats. In addition, the tendency of the republican Party to rally around its elected members no matter how bizarre or alarming their decisions or policies, will drive all of those Reagan Democrats and independents over to the Democratic side, which will mean that any hope of regaining majorities in either house will be lost for the the foreseeable future. They will have no desire to associate themselves with Republicans who follow their leader like a bunch of lemmings over the political cliff.

    Do we want 4 years of McCain that will likely result in Democratic control of the federal government for the rest of many of our lifetimes, or do we hold the line and give up 4 years now for 8 years next decade?

    And before this post is met by the threat that a Clinton presidency will destroy the world, I’m not buying it. There are 3 branches of federal government, only one of which she will control. In addition, she is smart enough to know what the stakes are in Iraq and the threats of other countries. She knows that if we cut and run from Iraq, the dominoes will fall. Besides, with Hillary in the White House, republicans have a much better chance of regaining control of the House and Senate, and we have an opportunity to insure that those republicans represent the conservative base. Do Republicans need conservatives more, or do conservatives need the GOP more?

  85. #85
    On February 10th, 2008 at 10:29 am, Irish Rose said:

    On February 9th, 2008 at 10:19 pm, Gabe said:

    I’m surprised Michelle hasn’t had more CPAC coverage. I was there yesterday and today and the panels and speakers were terrific. Newt Gingrich and Tony Snow gave excellent speeches, but the best by far was John Bolton yesterday. He gave excellent reasons to support John McCain. Actually, everyone has at CPAC.

    Because Ms. Malkin (along with Rush, Laura, etc.) clearly does not support John McCain, and never will. He doesn’t lean far enough right.

    I’m not saying this to disparage our lovely host. Her views are representative of the majority of far right conservatives.

    The Republican party has many flavors of conservatism, running along a broad spectrum from the far-right to the center.

    John McCain is a moderate Republican, many would even call him an independant/centrist. To those who tend to lean hard to the right though, he’s a “liberal”.

    Writing or saying anything positive about him at all, is going to be a real stretch for all of these good folks. Worse than having to swallow a double dose of castor oil on top of a very bitter pill.

    I could be wrong, though.

  86. #86
    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:36 pm, DannoJyd said:

    So Rick Perry, Texas GOP governor, asks Huck to drop out. Why didn’t he ask the same of Ron Paul? I guess Ron gets more respect from the GOP establishment than conservatives. As a matter of fact, conservatives are treated worse by the GOP than blacks are by the DNC. Anyone remember when blacks were told to calm down, or to fall in line?

    Feel free to try to prove me wrong.

  87. #87
    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:41 pm, serfer62 said:

    If the puppy pees in the kitchen you do not reward him with a cookie. MacNasty has peed all over the Conservative kitchen.

    I am not leaving the party, the party left me.

    On election day I will be thinking of all the establishment (they’ll come around) sneering down with their contempt of us…and vote none-of-the-above if I feel good, or for the other party if they pee me off more…

  88. #88
    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:47 pm, TXRose said:

    Perry is a liar and a ditz.

  89. #89
    On February 10th, 2008 at 12:50 pm, Gabe said:

    As a matter of fact, conservatives are treated worse by the GOP than blacks are by the DNC. Anyone remember when blacks were told to calm down, or to fall in line?

    I don’t think so. I live in Virginia, and I just got a recorded phone message from McCain (our primary is this week), in which he states he “will appoint Supreme Court justices like Roberts and Alito,” his pro-life record, and his position for enforcement of the border.

    Sound like conservatives are treated much better since McCain is catering to us in his positions.

    It is the opposite with Democrats, who take the votes of socially conservative blacks for granted. Can you imagine Barack Hussein Obama or Hillary Clinton becoming pro-life, pro-marriage, or pro-school choice in response to the mainstream position of conservative black Democrats?

  90. #90
    On February 10th, 2008 at 1:02 pm, brooklyn red said:

    Irish Rose #85, all true.

    However since “John McCain is a moderate Republican”, I can only hope that if the building catches fire they don’t send moderate firemen fire fighters, (sorry).

    OK, I will most likely have to vote for him (assuming the R levers are not crazy glued yet again)because at the end of the day the President is the Commander in Chief… but I live in NY so my vote doesn’t count anyway.

  91. #91
    On February 10th, 2008 at 1:10 pm, Laree said:

    Rick Perry busy building the nafta superhighway. Took time out to TELL everyone to line up behind the Amerimexico bus straight to hell.

  92. #92
    On February 10th, 2008 at 2:15 pm, purplepeep said:

    Ordinary Coloradan said:
    And if youare interested, Bill Quick has started:

    Ordinary CO -
    In checking out the link you offered I’d personally pass on it. I think the fellow has a bit of a problem - referring to Obama as “the boy” might’ve been somewhat effective in the 1800s. I feel like sending the fellow a DVD of “They Call Me Mr. Tibbs!” to help get him up to speed. :)

  93. #93
    On February 10th, 2008 at 3:08 pm, Ragspierre said:

    Irish Rose said:

    John McCain is a moderate Republican, many would even call him an independant/centrist. To those who tend to lean hard to the right though, he’s a “liberal”.

    No, dear. McCain is no Republican at all, or if he qualifies for any “Republican” appellation it should be “convenience Republican”, or “Republican of opportunity…today”.

    Again, you confuse differences of “reasoned positions” with a fundamental, and totally empirically based, loathing of the man’s character.

    I have a great deal more respect for Joe Lieberman than McCain. I could not vote for either, but I would sooner vote for a man of convictions than one without them entirely.

    I don’t consider myself “leaning hard to the right”. Rather, I am firmly planted on the side of Constitutional conservatism. My positions are sometimes radical, when compared to those who do not give a fig about the Constitution, the rule of law, or the good of humanity.

    Often, however, they are squarely in the middle of thinking American’s positions.

  94. #94
    On February 10th, 2008 at 5:54 pm, Mr_Conservative_Cat said:

    On February 10th, 2008 at 8:04 am, Renee_VA said:
    I will say it again, continuing to vote for the lesser of two evils gives you, nothing to choose from but evil.

    Pardon me, but “hello” - That’s true any time you have to make a choice between two imperfect options. As adults I thought we were past all that.

    Seriously, how long to we have to listen to these idealistic absurdities. Whining between choosing the lesser of two “evils” - literally? How about getting your head around the chopice which will do this country manifestly less damage. If you back away and don’t vote the better option, you put the worse one in power, and millions are hurt who would not have been hurt before.

    Lesser of two evils? Look in the mirror.

  95. #95
    On February 10th, 2008 at 6:35 pm, purplepeep said:

    Mr_Conservative_Cat said:
    That’s true any time you have to make a choice between two imperfect options.

    I think the core of the argument some folks are making is not about perfection, MrCC. Rather, it would seem the argument is that none of “options” are suited for the office.

  96. #96
    On February 10th, 2008 at 6:41 pm, Ragspierre said:

    Mr_Conservative_Cat said:

    That’s true any time you have to make a choice between two imperfect options. As adults I thought we were past all that.

    Well, as adults, we have the ability and the responsibility to discern when “imperfect” crosses over into “unacceptable”.

    Hell, NOBODY’s perfect! I don’t suppose there is anyone on this thread that needs to be told that.

    But there is a broad gulf between “imperfect” and
    U N

    F R E A K I N G

    S U P P O R T A B L E.

    I voted for Mr. Bush TWICE, and do not particularly apologize, given the choices and reality on the ground.

    I know “imperfect” when I see it.

    I also know a lying, dishonorable opportunist when I see one.

    McCain will NEVER get my vote.

  97. #97
    On February 10th, 2008 at 11:15 pm, Mr_Conservative_Cat said:

    On February 10th, 2008 at 6:35 pm, purplepeep said:
    I think the core of the argument some folks are making is not about perfection, MrCC. Rather, it would seem the argument is that none of “options” are suited for the office.

    Ageed, but what practical purpose does sitting out the election or vote third party serve, except to vote in the worst of two evils? What’s more important? Your country or your own feelings? our parents and grandparents would be disgusted that such a question would ever need asking, but today it does. It isn’t a rhetocial question. What purpose does it serve to this country, PP? Send a message? To whom? the victors who could care less? The losers who are relinquished to the land of the powerless? What practical purpose does it serve to, by abstaining or vote third party, does it serve to this country to vote into office the worse of two evils? I’d like a sincere, well-formulated answer, if you’d be so kind.

  98. #98
    On February 10th, 2008 at 11:26 pm, Mr_Conservative_Cat said:

    On February 10th, 2008 at 6:41 pm, Ragspierre said:
    Well, as adults, we have the ability and the responsibility to discern when “imperfect” crosses over into “unacceptable”.

    I have news for you. There is no such thing as a neutral inaction in this election. You’re going to vote for somebody if you like it or not. And it’s going to be a Republican or Democrat, whether you like it or not. Vote for McCain, and we get the lesser of two evils. Vote for Hillary, you get Hillary and life-appointed judges which will give new meaning to the word “unacceptable” in every aspect of your life. But guess what, as if you need to be told: if you vote for a third party or sit it out, you have still-pro-actively pulled the lever for Hillary no more or less than if you walked physically into the booth and did it intentionally. That’s the reality. Posing and posturing won’t change that. All you will have succeeded in doing is running away from an unpleasant and necessary patriotic responsibility simply because you don’t feel like it. Boo hoo hoo. Cry me a river about not enjoying it, but don’t tell me you are doing anything less than pro-actively voting Hillary or Obama into the White House because anything else is just spin and bullsh*t.

  99. #99
    On February 11th, 2008 at 12:04 am, purplepeep said:

    Mr_Conservative_Cat said:
    purplepeep said:
    “I think the core of the argument some folks are making is not about perfection, MrCC. Rather, it would seem the argument is that none of “options” are suited for the office.”

    Ageed, but what practical purpose does sitting out the election or vote third party serve, except to vote in the worst of two evils?

    Of course, what I was pointing out there was that the argument about p