Republican Convention

[Guest Brian]

Samantha Bee asking the guy from Montana if he wanted to get a picture with a black guy was beautiful. And asking the minorities to wear hats because they'd get camera time.

[Jobber of the Week 0]

I wanna catch the Daily Show, personally. Bush running over made me miss it.

"But fact was just gearing up for round two. The President needed more words, strong words..."

 

Samantha Bee asking the guy from Montana if he wanted to get a picture with a black guy was beautiful. And asking the minorities to wear hats because they'd get camera time.

Heh. I didn't see that. Something I noticed over the few days but didn't want to say anything due to fear of starting a ruckus was that there were white people EVERYWHERE, but only a couple minorities in every other crowd*. This convention also brought back memories of the old Dem conventions where the soccer moms and Hillary wannabes were trying to dance the Macarena. All the 70s rock and funk and dance that occasionally played between state roll calls and whatnot were often filled with shots of people trying to get down and boogie and making fools of themselves.

 

(*not saying the GOP is racist or whites-only, just saying what I saw at the show.)

[NoCalMike 0]

I wanna catch the Daily Show, personally. Bush running over made me miss it.

"But fact was just gearing up for round two. The President needed more words, strong words..."

 

Samantha Bee asking the guy from Montana if he wanted to get a picture with a black guy was beautiful. And asking the minorities to wear hats because they'd get camera time.

Heh. I didn't see that. Something I noticed over the few days but didn't want to say anything due to fear of starting a ruckus was that there were white people EVERYWHERE, but only a couple minorities in every other crowd*. This convention also brought back memories of the old Dem conventions where the soccer moms and Hillary wannabes were trying to dance the Macarena. All the 70s rock and funk and dance that occasionally played between state roll calls and whatnot were often filled with shots of people trying to get down and boogie and making fools of themselves.

 

(*not saying the GOP is racist or whites-only, just saying what I saw at the show.)

Well to expand what you are saying, it is just hilarious to see at BOTH conventions all these delegates that are so far removed from your average citizen as far as blind support for their respective candidates go. The camera shots of people "in awe" of the candidate saying something as simple as, "America is strong"

 

Oh and the dancing, yes the dancing.......LOL.

[Rob E Dangerously 0]

"To be fair, there are some things my opponent is for - he's proposed more than two trillion dollars in new federal spending so far, and that's a lot, even for a senator from Massachusetts." - Bush

 

"His policies of tax and spend - of expanding government rather than expanding opportunity - are the policies of the past. We are on the path to the future -- and we are not turning back." - Bush

 

"I've got big balls" - AC/DC

[kkktookmybabyaway 0]

Ha. I heard that first sound bite on the radio about 45 minutes ago and I just rolled my eyes and continued unpacking...

[Jobber of the Week 0]

"To be fair, there are some things my opponent is for - he's proposed more than two trillion dollars in new federal spending so far, and that's a lot, even for a senator from Massachusetts." - Bush

 

"His policies of tax and spend - of expanding government rather than expanding opportunity - are the policies of the past. We are on the path to the future -- and we are not turning back." - Bush

 

"I've got big balls" - AC/DC

This is incredibly funny when you consider that he laid the groundwork for millions and millions and millions and millions of spending while suggesting that the tax cuts be made permanent AND WHILE STILL saying he'll reduce government spending.

 

What?

 

Low-income areas will get health clinics, thousands of newly-constructed houses, and "oppertunity zones" whatever the fuck that means. Hell, I should move out of this suburbia and into the ghetto so I can get in on Dubya's goods.

[EricMM 0]

I love how he just PROMISES deregulation to businesses, like it's something to be proud of.

 

In other words:

 

I will sell out the environment.

 

Next.

[Rob E Dangerously 0]

Here's the speech with notes, I dug this up:

 

Mr. Chairman, delegates, fellow citizens: I am honored by your support, and I accept your nomination for President of the United States.

When I said those words four years ago, none of us could have envisioned what these years would bring. In the heart of this great city, we saw tragedy arrive on a quiet morning. We saw the bravery of rescuers grow with danger. We learned of passengers on a doomed plane who died with a courage that frightened their killers. We have seen a shaken economy rise to its feet. And we have seen Americans in uniform storming mountain strongholds, and charging through sandstorms, and liberating millions, with acts of valor that would make the men of Normandy proud.

 

Since 2001, Americans have been given hills to climb, and found the strength to climb them. Now, because we have made the hard journey, we can see the valley below. Now, because we have faced challenges with resolve, we have historic goals within our reach, and greatness in our future. We will build a safer world and a more hopeful America -- and nothing will hold us back.

 

In the work we have done, and the work we will do, I am fortunate to have a superb Vice President. I have counted on Dick Cheney's calm and steady judgment in difficult days, and I am honored to have him at my side.

 

I am grateful to share my walk in life with Laura Bush. Americans have come to see the goodness and kindness and strength I first saw 26 years ago, and we love our First Lady.

 

I am a fortunate father of two spirited, intelligent, and lovely young women. I am blessed with a sister and brothers who are also my closest friends. And I will always be the proud and grateful son of George and Barbara Bush.

 

My father served eight years at the side of another great American -- Ronald Reagan. His spirit of optimism and goodwill and decency are in this hall, and in our hearts, and will always define our party.

 

Two months from today, voters will make a choice based on the records we have built, the convictions we hold, and the vision that guides us forward. A presidential election is a contest for the future. Tonight I will tell you where I stand, what I believe, and where I will lead this country in the next four years.

 

I believe every child can learn, and every school must teach -- so we passed the most important federal education reform in history. Because we acted, children are making sustained progress in reading and math, America's schools are getting better, and nothing will hold us back.

 

[Dallas Morning News August 31, 2004:  Value of New Tests Disputed - After $500 million spent in Texas under Gov. Bush's plan that has now gone nationwide, there was no significant change in the rate of retention among Texas 3rd graders.  Basically teachers were doing a great job before and are still doing a great job, but we blew $500 million on creating a testing regime that has changed nothing.  This is going nationwide now and is basically a colossal waste of money that goes to creating tests and teaching tests instead of actual education.]

 

I believe we have a moral responsibility to honor America's seniors -- so I brought Republicans and Democrats together to strengthen Medicare. Now seniors are getting immediate help buying medicine. Soon every senior will be able to get prescription drug coverage, and nothing will hold us back.

 

[Atlanta Journal-Constitution July 5, 2004 - "The Medicare reform bill's prescription drug benefit, passed last fall, made no attempt to control prices or encourage competition. And according to a study released last week by AARP, prices for prescription drugs most used by seniors have risen at three times the rate of inflation over 2003, and by 3.4 percent so far this year. AARP, which ironically threw its support behind the drug benefit, is now fussing that discounts offered by the new program will be more than offset by price increases."]

 

I believe in the energy and innovative spirit of America's workers, entrepreneurs, farmers, and ranchers -- so we unleashed that energy with the largest tax relief in a generation. Because we acted, our economy is growing again, and creating jobs, and nothing will hold us back.

 

[Economic Policy Institute: Job Watch (http://www.jobwatch.org/creating/index.html) - "The president's economics staff, the Council of Economic Advisers, projected that the plan would result in the creation of 5.5 million jobs by the end of 2004--306,000 new jobs each month starting in July 2003. The CEA projected that the economy would generate 228,000 jobs a month without a tax cut and 306,000 jobs a month with the tax cut.  Thus, it projected that 3,978,000 jobs would be created over the last 13 months. In reality, since the tax cuts took effect, there are 2,565,000 fewer jobs than the administration projected would be created by enactment of its tax cuts."]

 

I believe the most solemn duty of the American president is to protect the American people. If America shows uncertainty and weakness in this decade, the world will drift toward tragedy. This will not happen on my watch.

 

I am running for President with a clear and positive plan to build a safer world, and a more hopeful America. I am running with a compassionate conservative philosophy: that government should help people improve their lives, not try to run their lives. I believe this Nation wants steady, consistent, principled leadership -- and that is why, with your help, we will win this election.

 

The story of America is the story of expanding liberty: an ever-widening circle, constantly growing to reach further and include more. Our Nation's founding commitment is still our deepest commitment: In our world, and here at home, we will extend the frontiers of freedom.

 

The times in which we live and work are changing dramatically. The workers of our parents' generation typically had one job, one skill, one career ? often with one company that provided health care and a pension. And most of those workers were men. Today, workers change jobs, even careers, many times during their lives, and in one of the most dramatic shifts our society has seen, two-thirds of all Moms also work outside the home.

 

This changed world can be a time of great opportunity for all Americans to earn a better living, support your family, and have a rewarding career. And government must take your side. Many of our most fundamental systems -- the tax code, health coverage, pension plans, worker training -- were created for the world of yesterday, not tomorrow. We will transform these systems so that all citizens are equipped, prepared -- and thus truly free -- to make your own choices and pursue your own dreams.

 

My plan begins with providing the security and opportunity of a growing economy. We now compete in a global market that provides new buyers for our goods, but new competition for our workers. To create more jobs in America, America must be the best place in the world to do business. To create jobs, my plan will encourage investment and expansion by restraining federal spending [See below in the speech for the multitude of new programs that Bush is proposing, along with a tax cut.  How this will restrain federal spending is not clear.] reducing regulation, and making tax relief permanent. [NYTimes.com August 13, 2004 - "Fully one-third of President Bush's tax cuts in the last three years have gone to people with the top 1 percent of income, who have earned an average of $1.2 million annually, according to a report by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office to be published Friday.  The report calculated that households with incomes in that top 1 percent were receiving an average tax cut of $78,460 this year, while households in the middle 20 percent of earnings - averaging about $57,000 a year - were getting an average cut of only $1,090."Is this the kind of tax cut we want to make permanent?  A 1.9% cut for average middle class family and a 6.5% cut for the ultra-wealthy?  Why not change the structure of the tax cut so that those at the top get something cut, but the majority goes to the middle class?  Cutting taxes for the wealthy has not benefited the middle class and has not created jobs (see above).]

 

To create jobs, we will make our country less dependent on foreign sources of energy. [The New Republic September 9, 2002 "Early in his presidency, Bush asked the National Academy of Sciences for advice on what to do about SUV miles per gallon. After the NAS inconveniently presented the case for higher standards, Bush waffled, venturing only that the Department of Transportation should "begin rulemaking"--which may take years--rather than supporting any of the fuel-efficiency improvement proposals that as a result died in Congress."]  To create jobs, we will expand trade and level the playing field to sell American goods and services across the globe. And we must protect small business owners and workers from the explosion of frivolous lawsuits that threaten jobs across America.

 

Another drag on our economy is the current tax code, which is a complicated mess -- filled with special interest loopholes, saddling our people with more than six billion hours of paperwork and headache every year. The American people deserve -- and our economic future demands -- a simpler, fairer, pro-growth system. In a new term, I will lead a bipartisan effort to reform and simplify the federal tax code.

 

Another priority in a new term will be to help workers take advantage of the expanding economy to find better, higher-paying jobs. In this time of change, many workers want to go back to school to learn different or higher-level skills. So we will double the number of people served by our principal job training program and increase funding for community colleges. I know that with the right skills, American workers can compete with anyone, anywhere in the world.

 

In this time of change, opportunity in some communities is more distant than in others. To stand with workers in poor communities -- and those that have lost manufacturing, textile, and other jobs -- we will create American opportunity zones. In these areas, we'll provide tax relief and other incentives to attract new business, and improve housing and job training to bring hope and work throughout all of America.

 

As I've traveled the country, I've met many workers and small business owners who have told me they are worried they cannot afford health care. More than half of the uninsured are small business employees and their families. In a new term, we must allow small firms to join together to purchase insurance at the discounts available to big companies. We will offer a tax credit to encourage small businesses and their employees to set up health savings accounts [If these people can't afford health insurance, what money are they supposed to set aside in a health savings account to pay for care in the future?], and provide direct help for low-income Americans to purchase them. These accounts give workers the security of insurance against major illness, the opportunity to save tax-free for routine health expenses, and the freedom of knowing you can take your account with you whenever you change jobs. And we will provide low-income Americans with better access to health care: In a new term, I will ensure every poor county in America has a community or rural health center. [There are 254 counties in Texas alone, where is all the money for these new health centers going to come from?]

 

As I have traveled our country, I have met too many good doctors, especially OB-GYNS, who are being forced out of practice because of the high cost of lawsuits. To make health care more affordable and accessible, we must pass medical liability reform now.  [Pittsburgh Post-Gazette January 22, 2004 - "[A better way to solve the insurance crisis is] rolling back rates and placing tighter restrictions on how insurance companies invest premium dollars. Bad investments are much more responsible for exorbitant malpractice premiums than jury awards. Less than 1.3 percent of the malpractice cases filed in Pennsylvania even result in jury awards. The others either are dismissed, settled out of court or result in a verdict for the defendant." This is not just true in Pennsylvania.  Look it up.]  And in all we do to improve health care in America, we will make sure that health decisions are made by doctors and patients, not by bureaucrats in Washington, DC.

 

In this time of change, government must take the side of working families. In a new term, we will change outdated labor laws to offer comp-time and flex-time. Our laws should never stand in the way of a more family-friendly workplace.  [New York Times August 31, 2004 - "Some nonpartisan experts, seeing a pro-business tilt in the revised rules, say the administration is wrong to assert that more workers will gain overtime coverage than lose it.  `The data isn't there for the Labor Department to say 1.3 million workers will gain eligibility,' said John R. Fraser, the federal government's top wage-and-hour official under the first President Bush and President Bill Clinton. `By my analysis, under the new regulations, 3, 4 or 5 million Americans could easily lose overtime coverage.'"]

 

Another priority for a new term is to build an ownership society, because ownership brings security, and dignity, and independence.

 

Thanks to our policies, homeownership in America is at an all-time high. Tonight we set a new goal: seven million more affordable homes in the next 10 years so more American families will be able to open the door and say welcome to my home.  [Again, new spending despite the promise of fiscal discipline.]

 

In an ownership society, more people will own their health plans, and have the confidence of owning a piece of their retirement. We will always keep the promise of Social Security for our older workers. With the huge Baby Boom generation approaching retirement, many of our children and grandchildren understandably worry whether Social Security will be there when they need it. We must strengthen Social Security by allowing younger workers to save some of their taxes in a personal account -- a nest egg you can call your own, and government can never take away.  [No one has seriously talked about taking away Social Security until Bush started talking about privatizing part of it.  Asking the most at-risk portion of the population to gamble with their retirement money is ludicrous.  Stocks basically always go up over time, this is true, but what about the people who retire right as the market hits a low point?  What are they supposed to do?  Do they keep working and hope that things get better soon?  What's wrong with a guaranteed minimum for everyone and the freedom to add more for those who are able to afford it?]

 

In all these proposals, we seek to provide not just a government program, but a path -- a path to greater opportunity, more freedom, and more control over your own life.

 

This path begins with our youngest Americans. To build a more hopeful America, we must help our children reach as far as their vision and character can take them. Tonight, I remind every parent and every teacher, I say to every child: No matter what your circumstance, no matter where you live -- your school will be the path to the promise of America.  [Just make sure that you go to a modern school with plenty of funding: Houston Chronicle September 3, 2004 - "Building conditions ranging from lighting to overcrowding can impact student achievement by as much as 17 percentage points, said Glen Earthman, a Virginia Tech professor who prepared an expert report for the plaintiff school districts in the case. [/i][state government of Texas is being sued by some districts for under-funding those districts.]  He cited several studies that he said show students in modern buildings score higher on exams than students in older buildings." Under the Bush plan of constant testing, those students with old, run-down facilities (the poorest students in other words) will fall further and further behind as subpar facilities affect their test scores.]

 

We are transforming our schools by raising standards and focusing on results. [See note above about how new tests in Texas are not changing students' progress.] We are insisting on accountability, empowering parents and teachers, and making sure that local people are in charge of their schools. By testing every child, we are identifying those who need help ? and we're providing a record level of funding to get them that help. In northeast Georgia, Gainesville Elementary School is mostly Hispanic and 90 percent poor ? and this year 90 percent of its students passed state tests in reading and math. The principal expresses the philosophy of his school this way: "We don't focus on what we can't do at this school; we focus on what we can do -- We do whatever it takes to get kids across the finish line." This principal is challenging the soft bigotry of low expectations, and that is the spirit of our education reform, and the commitment of our country: No dejaremos a ningún niño atrás. We will leave no child behind.

 

We are making progress -- and there is more to do. In this time of change, most new jobs are filled by people with at least two years of college, yet only about one in four students gets there. In our high schools, we will fund early intervention programs to help students at risk. We will place a new focus on math and science. As we make progress, we will require a rigorous exam before graduation. By raising performance in our high schools, and expanding Pell grants for low and middle income families, [more unfunded spending] we will help more Americans start their career with a college diploma.

 

America's children must also have a healthy start in life. In a new term, we will lead an aggressive effort to enroll millions of poor children who are eligible but not signed up for the government's health insurance programs. We will not allow a lack of attention, or information, to stand between these children and the health care they need. [Washington Post October 24, 1999 - "Gov. George W. Bush liked the concept of the program [Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)] but with one big caveat - he wanted to limit eligibility to families with incomes of no more than 150 percent of the poverty level rather than 200 percent, effectively eliminating about 200,000 children from the program. Essentially, he wanted to turn down federal money that was the state's for the asking."]

 

Anyone who wants more details on my agenda can find them online. The web address is not very imaginative, but it's easy to remember: GeorgeWBush.com.

 

These changing times can be exciting times of expanded opportunity. And here, you face a choice. My opponent's policies are dramatically different from ours. Senator Kerry opposed Medicare reform and health savings accounts. After supporting my education reforms, he now wants to dilute them. He opposes legal and medical liability reform. He opposed reducing the marriage penalty, opposed doubling the child credit, and opposed lowering income taxes for all who pay them.  [Do all who pay income taxes really need a tax cut?  As noted above, Bush's tax cut benefited those who do not need relief.  It's a hard, but principled choice to say that those who can pay more, should.] To be fair, there are some things my opponent is for -- he's proposed more than two trillion dollars in new federal spending so far, [The Times (London) August 30, 2004 - "[bush] is habitually portrayed as a dogmatic conservative at home, obsessed with tax cuts. Yet he has been responsible for expanding the role of the federal government in US schools, has enacted the biggest expansion of public healthcare provision since the 1960s, and has subsidised agriculture and the steel industry liberally."]  and that's a lot, even for a senator from Massachusetts.  To pay for that spending, he is running on a platform of increasing taxes -- and that's the kind of promise a politician usually keeps. [Newsday September 1, 2004 - "Taxpayers earning less than $200,000 would see no change under either Bush or Kerry proposals."]

 

His policies of tax and spend -- of expanding government rather than expanding opportunity [See note above about Bush expanding the size of various federal programs] -- are the policies of the past. We are on the path to the future -- and we are not turning back.

 

In this world of change, some things do not change: the values we try to live by, the institutions that give our lives meaning and purpose. Our society rests on a foundation of responsibility and character and family commitment.

 

Because family and work are sources of stability and dignity, I support welfare reform that strengthens family and requires work. Because a caring society will value its weakest members, we must make a place for the unborn child. Because religious charities provide a safety net of mercy and compassion, our government must never discriminate against them. Because the union of a man and woman deserves an honored place in our society, I support the protection of marriage against activist judges. And I will continue to appoint federal judges who know the difference between personal opinion and the strict interpretation of the law.

 

My opponent recently announced that he is the candidate of "conservative values," which must have come as a surprise to a lot of his supporters. Now, there are some problems with this claim. If you say the heart and soul of America is found in Hollywood, I'm afraid you are not the candidate of conservative values. If you voted against the bipartisan Defense of Marriage Act, which President Clinton signed, you are not the candidate of conservative values. If you gave a speech, as my opponent did, calling the Reagan presidency eight years of "moral darkness," then you may be a lot of things, but the candidate of conservative values is not one of them.

 

This election will also determine how America responds to the continuing danger of terrorism -- and you know where I stand. Three days after September 11th, I stood where Americans died, in the ruins of the Twin Towers. Workers in hard hats were shouting to me, "Whatever it takes." A fellow grabbed me by the arm and he said, "Do not let me down." Since that day, I wake up every morning thinking about how to better protect our country. I will never relent in defending America -- whatever it takes.

 

So we have fought the terrorists across the earth -- not for pride, not for power, but because the lives of our citizens are at stake. Our strategy is clear. We have tripled funding for homeland security and trained half a million first responders, [How is this not expanding government?  I admit homeland security is a good thing, but he needs to stop saying he is against the expansion of government when he expands the government all the time.] because we are determined to protect our homeland. We are transforming our military and reforming and strengthening our intelligence services. We are staying on the offensive -- striking terrorists abroad -- so we do not have to face them here at home. And we are working to advance liberty in the broader Middle East, because freedom will bring a future of hope, and the peace we all want. And we will prevail.

 

Our strategy is succeeding. Four years ago, Afghanistan was the home base of al-Qaida, Pakistan was a transit point for terrorist groups,  [The Baltimore Sun - August 19, 2004 "Pakistan is America's most important ally against al-Qaida -- and at times the least reliable. Osama bin Laden and other top al-Qaida figures are still believed to be hiding somewhere along the border with Afghanistan. But Pakistan's potential usefulness is not simply geographic: It was the main sponsor of the Taliban regime that harbored al-Qaida, and its government and intelligence service are still home to plenty of Taliban sympathizers (as is the population at large). Terrorist cells evidently operate in Pakistan's cities."]  Saudi Arabia was fertile ground for terrorist fundraising, Libya was secretly pursuing nuclear weapons, Iraq was a gathering threat, [Really?  What about the fact that there have not been WMDs in Iraq since at least 1998?  Of course Saddam was a brutal dictator who ravaged his own people, but don't call him a threat to the U.S.] and al-Qaida was largely unchallenged as it planned attacks. [Unchallenged, but not unknown.  Remember the August 6th, 2001 Presidential Briefing Memo - "Bin Laden Determined to Strike U.S."] Today, the government of a free Afghanistan is fighting terror, Pakistan is capturing terrorist leaders, Saudi Arabia is making raids and arrests, Libya is dismantling its weapons programs, the army of a free Iraq is fighting for freedom, and more than three-quarters of al-Qaida's key members and associates have been detained or killed. We have led, many have joined, and America and the world are safer.

 

This progress involved careful diplomacy, clear moral purpose, and some tough decisions. And the toughest came on Iraq. We knew Saddam Hussein's record of aggression and support for terror. We knew his long history of pursuing, even using, weapons of mass destruction. And we know that September 11th requires our country to think differently: We must, and we will, confront threats to America before it is too late.

 

In Saddam Hussein, we saw a threat. Members of both political parties, including my opponent and his running mate, saw the threat, and voted to authorize the use of force. We went to the United Nations Security Council, which passed a unanimous resolution demanding the dictator disarm, or face serious consequences. Leaders in the Middle East urged him to comply. After more than a decade of diplomacy, we gave Saddam Hussein another chance, a final chance, to meet his responsibilities to the civilized world. He again refused, and I faced the kind of decision that comes only to the Oval Office -- a decision no president would ask for, but must be prepared to make. Do I forget the lessons of September 11th and take the word of a madman, or do I take action to defend our country? Faced with that choice, I will defend America every time.

 

Because we acted to defend our country, the murderous regimes of Saddam Hussein and the Taliban are history, [New York Times - September 2, 2004 "The American-led invasion was a success to the degree that a government friendly to the United States and opposed to terrorist groups has been installed in Kabul. But armed opponents of the government are still all over the rest of Afghanistan, including Qaeda remnants and a revived Taliban."]  more than 50 million people have been liberated, and democracy is coming to the broader Middle East. In Afghanistan, terrorists have done everything they can to intimidate people -- yet more than 10 million citizens have registered to vote in the October presidential election, a resounding endorsement of democracy. Despite ongoing acts of violence, Iraq now has a strong Prime Minister, a national council, and national elections are scheduled for January. Our Nation is standing with the people of Afghanistan and Iraq, because when America gives its word, America must keep its word. As importantly, we are serving a vital and historic cause that will make our country safer. Free societies in the Middle East will be hopeful societies, which no longer feed resentments and breed violence for export. Free governments in the Middle East will fight terrorists instead of harboring them, and that helps us keep the peace. So our mission in Afghanistan and Iraq is clear: We will help new leaders to train their armies, and move toward elections, and get on the path of stability and democracy as quickly as possible. And then our troops will return home with the honor they have earned.

 

Our troops know the historic importance of our work. One Army Specialist wrote home: "We are transforming a once sick society into a hopeful place ... The various terrorist enemies we are facing in Iraq," he continued, "are really aiming at you back in the United States. This is a test of will for our country. We soldiers of yours are doing great and scoring victories in confronting the evil terrorists."

 

That young man is right -- our men and women in uniform are doing a superb job for America. [Editorial Note: I agree.  Some troops have done terrible things over there (though it looks like they were encouraged or ordered to do so by higher ups), but for the most part these are decent people trying to do the right thing.  I am in school with a few soldiers who have come back from Iraq and they are good people.] Tonight I want to speak to all of them -- and to their families: You are involved in a struggle of historic proportion. Because of your service and sacrifice, we are defeating the terrorists where they live and plan, and making America safer. Because of you, women in Afghanistan are no longer shot in a sports stadium. Because of you, the people of Iraq no longer fear being executed and left in mass graves. Because of you, the world is more just and will be more peaceful. We owe you our thanks, and we owe you something more. We will give you all the resources, all the tools, and all the support you need for victory. [Pittsburgh Post-Gazette August 25, 2004 "Seeking their own organization, some of those in Vietnam Veterans Against the War launched Vietnam Veterans of America under the leadership of Bobby Muller. In 1987, VVA received recognition by the federal government as an official national veterans' organization. VVA fought successfully for medical treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and Agent Orange. As a U.S. senator, John Kerry consistently supported such measures to help Vietnam veterans. As we know, with troops in the field in Iraq, President Bush has submitted bills to Congress which cut veterans' benefits."]

 

Again, my opponent and I have different approaches. [See different approaches to veteran's benefits above.] I proposed, and the Congress overwhelmingly passed, 87 billion dollars in funding needed by our troops doing battle in Afghanistan and Iraq. My opponent and his running mate voted against this money for bullets, and fuel, and vehicles, and body armor. When asked to explain his vote, the Senator said, "I actually did vote for the 87 billion dollars before I voted against it." Then he said he was "proud" of that vote. Then, when pressed, he said it was a "complicated" matter. [Complicated because the White House and DOD wanted complete discretion to spend the money however they saw fit without any say from Congress.  Kerry, along with others, wanted some democratic (note the small "d") oversight of how the taxpayers' money would be spent.] There is nothing complicated about supporting our troops in combat. [Sorry to nag, but check the veteran's benefits blurb again.]

 

Our allies also know the historic importance of our work. About 40 nations stand beside us in Afghanistan, and some 30 in Iraq. And I deeply appreciate the courage and wise counsel of leaders like Prime Minister Howard, and President Kwasniewski, and Prime Minister Berlusconi -- and, of course, Prime Minister Tony Blair.

 

Again, my opponent takes a different approach. In the midst of war, he has called America's allies, quote, a "coalition of the coerced and the bribed." That would be nations like Great Britain, Poland, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Denmark, El Salvador, Australia, and others -- allies that deserve the respect of all Americans, not the scorn of a politician. I respect every soldier, from every country, who serves beside us in the hard work of history. America is grateful, and America will not forget.

 

The people we have freed won't forget either. Not long ago, seven Iraqi men came to see me in the Oval Office. They had "X"s branded into their foreheads, and their right hands had been cut off, by Saddam Hussein's secret police, the sadistic punishment for imaginary crimes. During our emotional visit one of the Iraqi men used his new prosthetic hand to slowly write out, in Arabic, a prayer for God to bless America. I am proud that our country remains the hope of the oppressed, and the greatest force for good on this earth

 

Others understand the historic importance of our work. The terrorists know. They know that a vibrant, successful democracy at the heart of the Middle East will discredit their radical ideology of hate. They know that men and women with hope, and purpose, and dignity do not strap bombs on their bodies and kill the innocent. The terrorists are fighting freedom with all their cunning and cruelty because freedom is their greatest fear -- and they should be afraid, because freedom is on the march.

 

I believe in the transformational power of liberty: The wisest use of American strength is to advance freedom. [Current dictatorships listed as members of the Coalition of the Willing on the White House website: Angola, Eritrea, Kuwait, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. (Government information from the CIA World Fact Book.)  Pakistan also remains a valued ally (though not a member of the Coalition) even though President Musharraf took power in a military coup.]  As the citizens of Afghanistan and Iraq seize the moment, their example will send a message of hope throughout a vital region. Palestinians will hear the message that democracy and reform are within their reach, and so is peace with our good friend Israel. Young women across the Middle East will hear the message that their day of equality and justice is coming. Young men will hear the message that national progress and dignity are found in liberty, not tyranny and terror. Reformers, and political prisoners, and exiles will hear the message that their dream of freedom cannot be denied forever. And as freedom advances -- heart by heart, and nation by nation -- America will be more secure and the world more peaceful.

 

America has done this kind of work before -- and there have always been doubters. In 1946, 18 months after the fall of Berlin to allied forces, a journalist wrote in the New York Times, "Germany is ... a land in an acute stage of economic, political and moral crisis. [European] capitals are frightened. In every [military] headquarters, one meets alarmed officials doing their utmost to deal with the consequences of the occupation policy that they admit has failed." [If Bush is implying that we need to give the occupation more time, why did we turn over control of the government so hastily at the end of June?  I know the troops are still there, but we are not (at least formally) in charge anymore.] End quote. Maybe that same person's still around, writing editorials. Fortunately, we had a resolute president named Truman, who with the American people persevered, knowing that a new democracy at the center of Europe would lead to stability and peace. And because that generation of Americans held firm in the cause of liberty, we live in a better and safer world today.

 

The progress we and our friends and allies seek in the broader Middle East will not come easily, or all at once. Yet Americans, of all people, should never be surprised by the power of liberty to transform lives and nations. That power brought settlers on perilous journeys, inspired colonies to rebellion, ended the sin of slavery, and set our Nation against the tyrannies of the 20th century. We were honored to aid the rise of democracy in Germany and Japan and Nicaragua and Central Europe and the Baltics -- and that noble story goes on. I believe that America is called to lead the cause of freedom in a new century. I believe that millions in the Middle East plead in silence for their liberty.  I believe that given the chance, they will embrace the most honorable form of government ever devised by man. I believe all these things because freedom is not America's gift to the world, it is the Almighty God's gift to every man and woman in this world.  [See above list for dictatorships we still support.]

 

This moment in the life of our country will be remembered. Generations will know if we kept our faith and kept our word. Generations will know if we seized this moment, and used it to build a future of safety and peace. The freedom of many, and the future security of our Nation, now depend on us. And tonight, my fellow Americans, I ask you to stand with me.

 

In the last four years, you and I have come to know each other. Even when we don't agree, at least you know what I believe and where I stand. You may have noticed I have a few flaws, too. People sometimes have to correct my English -- I knew I had a problem when Arnold Schwarzenegger started doing it. Some folks look at me and see a certain swagger, which in Texas is called "walking." Now and then I come across as a little too blunt -- and for that we can all thank the white-haired lady sitting right up there.

 

One thing I have learned about the presidency is that whatever shortcomings you have, people are going to notice them -- and whatever strengths you have, you're going to need them. These four years have brought moments I could not foresee and will not forget. I have tried to comfort Americans who lost the most on September 11th -- people who showed me a picture or told me a story, so I would know how much was taken from them. I have learned first-hand that ordering Americans into battle is the hardest decision, even when it is right. I have returned the salute of wounded soldiers, some with a very tough road ahead, who say they were just doing their job. I've held the children of the fallen, who are told their dad or mom is a hero, but would rather just have their dad or mom.

 

And I have met with parents and wives and husbands who have received a folded flag, and said a final goodbye to a soldier they loved. I am awed that so many have used those meetings to say that I am in their prayers ? to offer encouragement to me. Where does strength like that come from? How can people so burdened with sorrow also feel such pride? It is because they know their loved one was last seen doing good. Because they know that liberty was precious to the one they lost. And in those military families, I have seen the character of a great nation: decent, and idealistic, and strong.

 

The world saw that spirit three miles from here, when the people of this city faced peril together, and lifted a flag over the ruins, and defied the enemy with their courage. My fellow Americans, for as long as our country stands, people will look to the resurrection of New York City and they will say: Here buildings fell, and here a nation rose.

 

We see America's character in our military, which finds a way or makes one. We see it in our veterans, [Apparently having your benefits cut builds character - see above note about veteran's benefits cuts.] who are supporting military families in their days of worry. We see it in our young people, who have found heroes once again. We see that character in workers and entrepreneurs, who are renewing our economy with their effort and optimism. And all of this has confirmed one belief beyond doubt: Having come this far, our tested and confident Nation can achieve anything.

 

To everything we know there is a season -- a time for sadness, a time for struggle, a time for rebuilding. And now we have reached a time for hope. This young century will be liberty's century. By promoting liberty abroad, we will build a safer world. By encouraging liberty at home, we will build a more hopeful America. Like generations before us, we have a calling from beyond the stars to stand for freedom. This is the everlasting dream of America -- and tonight, in this place, that dream is renewed. Now we go forward -- grateful for our freedom, faithful to our cause, and confident in the future of the greatest nation on earth.

 

God bless you, and may God continue to bless America.

[Justice 0]

Tsk Tsk, Robbie... no source? KKK is going to rape you now.

[Rob E Dangerously 0]

"We were honored to aid the rise of democracy in Germany and Japan and Nicaragua and Central Europe and the Baltics"

 

hmm..

 

ok

[NoCalMike 0]

I love how he just PROMISES deregulation to businesses, like it's something to be proud of.

 

In other words:

 

I will sell out the environment.

 

Next.

Not to mention the WONDERS that deregulation did to California's energy policy........ In other words, what he is saying is, let's bribe these corporations with lower wages, less benefits, less overtime benefits, less accountability etc......wow, GREAAAAT IDEA

[kkktookmybabyaway 0]

Tsk Tsk, Robbie... no source? KKK is going to rape you now.

I'd have to read it before raping him.

 

And that post is too fucking long...

[Styles 0]

I'm saddened that my latest episode recieved no replies, is there no longer a demand for Zell vs. Dean: The Duel episodes?

[Dr. Tyler; Captain America 0]

Less political agendas and more duelling from them, Slapnuts.

[Rob E Dangerously 0]

Oh yeah.. I checked the vote totals for the Voting Rights Act

 

House: 333-85

Senate: 77-19

 

Just a late addition

[Dr. Tyler; Captain America 0]

If anyone still has any doubts about the lack of truthful content of Zell's speech, factcheck.org should set you straight.

[Guest Crazy Dan]

Hey but if anyone wants to challenge Zell on what he said, he will challenge you to a duel. My goodness, I think that Zell's meltdown on Hardball is one of the most unintetional comedic moments of the year. Hey Zell, it's called Metamusil, look into it. McCain thought that Kerry must of shot his dog, which would explain his bitterness at Kerry. Would make sense to me. But I am curious, Republicans have their man as President. They control both the House and Senate, and yet they really seemed to be pissed off that the Democrats would dare to actually send a man to face Bush in the elections. I am not getting this anger at all.

 

And getting back to Zell. I am glad he is retiring. I think he is trully senile, as he was shocked that his speech came out as hate filled. His tirade reminded me of a spoiled brat who isn't getting his way who has decided to take his ball home and pout about the whole thing. And I understand that he doesn't like the direction and core beliefs that the Democrats have taken. I am sure that McCain, Ahnold, Rudy, and other moderates in the Republican Party aren't exactly thrilled with some of the direction the Republican party has gone in the case of some of the domestic issues, but at least they still stay loyal to their party, and for that I can respect them for that. Zell on the other hand is a bitter old man. And his tirade at Mathews was hilarious. He looked like a complete nut case. And I am embarassed that he calls himself a Democrat. He in my eyes is only a Democrat in name only. And Ed Koch also crossed party lines and threw his support for Bush, but I respect his reasoning, and he hasn't spent the last few years going of the hinge and bad mouthing his party. Zell is a nut case who grasp on reality as fully gone. Just as I am sure many were happy to see Helms and Thurman finally retire, and I am counting down the days when we can see Edward Kennedy go bye-bye, Zell is another one who I am glad we will never have to hear his hatred be spewed again.

 

As for my thoughts on the convention it self. Many good prime time speeches were made, and Bush does have some momentum going into the debates. Kerry is in trouble, but I do think that he will gain some votes back when he should beat Bush in the debates. I learned that most people are going to vote for Bush slowly on the basis that many think Bush will protect them more than they do think Kerry will. But I didn't really hear much else on Bush's overall record being trumpeted. Makes you think how much Bush really has accomplished and if the terror war was not the way it was, would Bush be really at 52% saying they will vote for him. Also, being that many Conservatives of the Party did not get any air time or speech time is also a curious thing to me. Where was Tom Delay and other prominant Conservative Republicans speakers? Hey I like that there are Moderates in the Party, but do they trully speak for all of the party, or were they used to sugar coat the more conservative platform, which if brought to the front might really turn many of the undecideds off?

 

So Bush gets a nice bump, can he keep it going? Expect a massive fight back from the Democrats, as the forcast expects heavy mud slides. I am still voting Kerry, but I do feel that Bush looks like he might actually win, which might make us safe, but might mean our domestic problems get worse. And that is my view of the whole week.