He now is serous about the Florida senate seat...

Not only was he the Florida Governor during the 2000 presidential election debacle, it seems that he
takes his orders from his older brother, "W".

This is what Big Bro' said of Jeb:
Jeb's my little brother, he's done what I've told him to all his life. ~ George W. Bush in The New York Times article "Two brothers share a quest, but not a style" (November 5, 1994)
http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Jeb_Bush


Wow, that's comforting...

Now, where did I put that necklace of garlic and those wooden stakes???

Source: Daily Kos

If it happens, it will be a very big deal:

Two sources close to Jeb Bush, including one who has spoken to the former Florida governor within the past few hours, say he is seriously considering a run for Senate now that incumbent Republican Mel Martinez has retired.

"He is receiving a lot of encouragement from both in and out of the state," an longtime Bush adviser said tonight. "He is going to take his time and approach this very methodically." Bush will weigh, according to this adviser, how a run would impact his family, his business, and whether the Senate would be the best platform for the causes he'd advocate -- education, immigration, GOP solutions to health care and energy.

Bush left office with high approvals, and would be the strongest candidate the Republicans could find for the seat (with the possible exception of Governor Charlie Crist, who doesn't seem interested in a Senate bid).

His entry would clear the field for the Republicans, and might knock a few Democrats out of the field as well, although it being an open-seat race, someone decent would no doubt take the plunge, figuring that the toxicity of the Bush name alone could help out, despite Jeb's personal popularity


Read more: http://www.dailykos.com /

---

I get shivers at the thought of another Bush within 300 miles of the White House. This, the same guy, who was the Florida governor during the "voting irregularities" during the 2000 election! Ugh.

I've been told that my writing appears angry at times. I couldn't find that in me today, with all that's happening, with all of the complications we are facing. So, I wrote simply. It is somewhat childish, so there is my disclaimer and apology, all at once.

Thanksgiving day 2008

This day, that is designated for Thanks
I will think of the souls in Mumbai
I’ll gaze at our traditional family feast
While the Pres. dreams of escape to Dubai

Is there much for which to be thankful?
“Yes”, my jaded heart pitter-pats
For the good, decent, and the meek
From our home to the “this and thats”

I’ll miss my Pa-pa at the head of the table
Yet, so grateful for his beautiful life
Remembering his respect for those who seek justice
And their work for equality through such strife

I’ll appreciate my family, oh, so much
Though clearly not nearly enough
For my Ma-Ma will say “It’s been too long”
And, “Not seeing you is tough”

My hippie Mom and conservative brother
And about a dozen others in-between
We’ll eat, laugh and watch football
For a day, our differences unseen

Because we’re not promised tomorrow
And all we truly have is today
I’ll endeavor to give more thanks than ever
And for those without, I’ll pray

I’ll be thankful for the brave soldiers
Who in their duty, persevere
And tears of joy will fill my eyes
For...January twentieth is near

Happy Thanksgiving to all at DU and everywhere...JD

Source: Politico

Delaware Gov. Ruth Ann Minner’s (D) decision to appoint Vice President-elect Joe Biden’s longtime aide Ted Kaufman to the Senate has upset local Democrats who believe the move was a ham-handed attempt to engineer the election of Biden’s son, Beau, to the Senate in 2010.

By selecting Kaufman, who has said he would serve only two years before a special election is held in 2010, Minner bypassed other interested Delaware pols and ensured that Beau Biden will have a clearer opportunity to succeed his father in the Senate.

Beau Biden, the state’s attorney general, is currently serving in Iraq as part of the Delaware National Guard.

“There is definitely going to be some blowback,” said Delaware State political science professor Sam Hoff.


Read more: http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1108/...

---

Local Democrats are upset about Biden's replacement in the senate? Beau Biden (whom I assume is a Democrat), who is now serving in Iraq; is already being accused of his father's seat being gifted to him.
The more Democrats, the better, IMHO. Why on earth is our party upset about this?

I was raised Southern Baptist (ouch); then, as I aged, my belief system morphed into something that had nothing at all to do with the church itself. I still defend the good, open-minded people there, but cannot agree with what I call "the way they do business". That's how I see it, primarily, as a business. So, let's just say, that many preachers would tell me that I may just burn in flames eternally. Nice, huh? I'm straight, married, believe in equal rights for all (and I mean ALL), and I believe in the right to choose. They call me "pro-abortion".
It is a culture that forms you to some degree if you are raised in it, from the time of birth. But, call me picky, but I've chosen what I adore in scripture; such as love, compassion, giving to the least of these, etc...and taken the legalism of Christianity and thrown it out the window.
I continue to call myself a Christian, despite all of this. Because, in my arrogance (lol), I think I'm right and they are wrong. Love is absolutely unconditional. I see no other evidence than that in the New Testament. (Here on DU, I think I've perturbed, angered and enraged a few by using that label.)
But, I'm in a weird state of not belonging Anywhere, or with anyone (except my husband). This election showed me how extremist the Christian right can be, and I want nothing to do with that, or that label. My few, very devout, Christian friends debated me during the time of election, and stopped speaking to me when I told them the rep. platform of abortion was "the great republican lie". Go figure. You should have seen their expressions when I told them I'd been meditating (which is mentioned as prayer in the Bible.) I thought they were going to lay hands on me for my wayward ways. lol.
Sometimes, it's hard to figure out exactly where you fit in. I'm still in the process and consider myself a very spiritual person.
I know you don't want or desire props or admiration for being true to yourself, and turning away from such a deeply embedded part of your culture; but, I applaud you.

Not to be opportunistic, but the way you explain your journey to your true self, should be written, and not just on DU. My suggestion...just a suggestion, is begin writing a book about your experience to help others know that they are not abandoned and alone, just because they disagree; and that it's okay to disagree with the church. You are well written, and I was riveted (unusual, for me) from the first paragraph.
My best wishes and love to you and yours, and thank you so much.
JD

I've said it before...I'm no economist. But, before work (early, early this am), there was a 300

billion for citibank bailout; now, I see that we're up to 7.2 trillion for everything. What is my

child going to do? Or her children??? Please tell me that she and hers won't live in depression era

times. Because, trust me she doesn't know how. None of us do. We are not (I repeat NOT) well off.

But, we make things work, just barely. To what end, is all of this? What will it solve? What will

children face from this point on?....

I know, a lot of questions, but as I said, I'm no analyst. I just heard on the news that Obama's not

happy. I translate that into, he would never take this route.


Could someone explain this to me as if I'm a 2 year old? Maybe then, I'll have a clue as to what end

they ( B administration) are seeking. Is there a chance in the world that this will help???

If you have five minutes to spare:

A friend sent me this video, from Youtube, of a girl speaking to a meeting of the UN. It's one of

the most inspiring things I've seen. BTW, she and her two friends saved to travel there for the

opportunity to be heard. My apologies if this has already been posted, but it's brilliant enough to

view twice.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQmz6Rbpnu0

that Obama (throughout his campaign) has stated that he wants us all to come together, to end bipartisan hatred (let's face it, it's pretty true that we're divided beyond imagination), and to unite. I truly respect his decision to hire brilliant people who disagree with him. We all know that he will hire those who also think along the same line of thought he does, as well. But, in my eyes, although some of his views may be liberal, he is more evolved than just hearing one opinion and one voice. When I voted, despite my utter disdain for everything the repub party thinks, believes in, and says; I was and am truly inspired by his desire to bring the law makers of this country closer together. Hey, he convinced many republicans to vote against their own party. I say, recent history speaks to never underestimate the wisdom of President Obama. He's the smart guy in the room, remember? He sure doesn't deserve any disrespect. We elected him, knowing full well whom we elected, so for those who heard only what you wanted to hear and are complaining, just don't act as if you're disillusioned. Perhaps, those of you who do it, do it out of habit. We've been complaining a very long time. Time to stop and trust the man for whom you voted.

edit for my PS.

PS. Emmanuel was an excellent pick. He's a bulldog and will have Obama's back at every turn. In addition, never doubt that Obama will be calling the shots. I don't believe it's within him to allow someone else to do it, do you?

I'm a Christian, and have never been so embarrassed by the church or by right wing christian extremists, as I have been lately. What you hear "so called" Christians say about Obama is utter nonsense, that fantastically enough, has been much ingrained into their minds by a man or woman they should be able to trust, their pastor. Pastors have no business preaching politics and any that do should be asked/required to leave their position. That is not what they've been called to do.

Obama demonstrates all of the characteristics of a Christian. He is merciful, giving, forgiving, and he is his brother's keeper.He values the least of us and wants to give to the least of us. I don't know him personally, but you will know a believer by his or her fruits. I voted for Obama. I live in the South. I have had to deal with this anti-Christ bull for quite some time, and the rhetoric isn't slowing much, post-election.

My faith has been questioned by some in my community, due to my avid support of Obama. I've had many debates, and have tried to appeal to the reason and logic that must exist somewhere inside their minds. I'm now convinced that it may not exist in their minds. I'm also convinced that they should all surrender their driver's licenses, since logic and reason should be present while operating heavy machinery.

In reference to another post, here on your thread, by FatDave. Acceptance of Christ is not all there is to modern Christianity. Of course, that is considered the initial step, but afterward there is to be a change in one's mind, heart, and spirit. A person is changed for the better. Anyone can call themselves a Christian (FatDave mentioned Hitler), but if the fruits of that acceptance are not evident, then they didn't accept Christ.
I'm not judging, I'm just looking at Hitler's barren tree. No, I'm not saying that salvation is earned, either. Just that without any indication of mercy, love, compassion, forgiveness, empathy, and helping those in need, (just to name a few); no such salvation took place.
Again, not judging. Just looking at that hate/fear mongering, barren tree.

I'm so glad people are speaking out against these right wingers, just remember, some of us are pretty good people (or try our best to be) and our faith is important to us. And we're pretty ticked about what those others are doing and saying in God's name.

Thanks, Nance...you're a prolific writer and I always look for your posts.

*Please forgive any grammatical or prose sins I commit when I write, it is entirely unintentional; It’s been a hard few months in my area, during the election, and this is my form of gentle venting*:

Raised in the South, where tradition is sound
I enter adulthood, and reason is found
What I once thought solid, now is soft ground
And it seems I am sinking in sand.

So, I read, think and listen to all those around
With time-honored philosophies, some that astound
The sense I belong to this group that confounds
My heritage, no longer quite so grand

All reason, knowledge and love that abounds
It burns like blue heat, no words can cool down
My friends think I’m a traitor to the faith I throw down
But I say, Love is the greatest command

I say, the fruit that you bear should be all around!
Though, while you criticize me, it’s yet to be found
Young ones fight for your right to be ignorant and un-found
While you gather, and slander and fail to understand

The new day dawning has come despite you clowns
And as you judge me, sure that I’m express-hell bound
I have my faith, and am no puppet of the church you've crowned
My ears are deaf to what your political preachers command

I have seen mercy, hope and love; and heard a cry for justice that resounds
I have seen the fruits of people who refuse to be bound
I have rallied with the citizens that refuse to pipe down
Courageous protectors of the constitution and true Patriots of this land

Respond if you wish, neighbors of mine, and make it fearsomely profound
I’ll not shake in my boots, nor alter my stance; I’ll even tell you where I can be found
I share company with other Americans, in a free and equal place...Democratic Underground.
They're much like the founders, tenacious and true, and it’s with them that I continue to stand.

JD

but what really, really bothers me, is that I have read that Pres. elect Obama will feel compelled by necessity, to keep certain members of the Bush administration. One of these is Ben Bernanke. He (and Sec. Paulson) have promised to comply with demands for transparency. Bernanke is going back on his word and I don't think this is someone remotely fit for an Obama administration.

Isn't the whole point "Change"?

Keeping Bernanke, who has just proven that he is a typical Bushy by lying to the American people, is too close for comfort, IMHO. Obama shouldn't let anyone with characteristics of the disastrous Bu$h administration near our nation's economy.

I'm a Christian. My faith is important to me. I think one of the worst things that ever happened in the church is when it became political. Now, I endure comments such as these, that make me seem crazy, but I don't blame you because, from what I've seen the church do lately...it's embarrassing.
Perhaps, despite my disdain for labels, I should call my self a follower of Christ. Jesus taught love, tolerance, and kindness. He loved the unlovable. Call me a fool, those of you I have hung out with here on DU; my opinion of the church is so very changed and leaves me sad, however my faith is strong, as always. In case any of you are interested, I pray for God's will in my life, whatever that may be; and never would I be so arrogant as to know the mind of God.
My political views are based on logic, reason, and yes...faith. That's why I voted for Obama.

Rep. Rahm Emanuel (D-Ill.), a wily, aggressive West Wing strategist under President Bill Clinton, has accepted the post of White House chief of staff for President-elect Barack Obama, Democratic officials tell Politico.

The selection is the first major public decision by Obama since he was elected in a landslide on Tuesday.

The announcement will send a signal that Obama is eager to work with Congress and plans a swift launch of an aggressive agenda that will focus on the economy, taxes, energy, education and health care.

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1108/...

REC if you're loving this news! I know the rethugs are hating it!

I didn't know there was a room to cry when given a great burden, but it makes sense. I thought the same thing last night, before his acceptance speech. He just made history, inherited an America with serious problems, the weight and the honor of it all; and the joy, responsibility and grief of the loss of his much loved "Toot"...all of this had to be so much to process. Yet, I saw a serious man with a serious mission during his speech. Oration should normally bring you to your feet at such moments, but somehow, this time, it wouldn't have fit such a profound moment.
Personally, I did enough hooping and hollering to make my husband think (and everyone I called) that I had gone quite mad. I was crying and laughing and yelling "Wooooo!!!!" and "Thank You!!!!
Then, I slept like I haven't slept in years. Seriously.
Then, I awake to a few more tears and laughs, and many more quietly spoken "Thank You"s.

Thanks to you Plaid Adder for your thoughts and to all at DU and beyond who helped make this wonder of wonders happen.
JD

Trying to move beyond ignorance:

"We need to educate them (those older members who may have a problem voting for a black man)that if they care about holding on to their jobs, their health care, their pensions and their homes; if they care about creating good jobs with clean energy, child care, pay equity for women workers, there's only going to be one candidate on the ballot this fall who's on their side."

The last thing I'm going to say to you is we can either have a black friend in the White House or a white enemy in the White House," United Mine Workers of America President Cecil Roberts, after laying out the case against John McCain (opposition to "clean coal") says in a 17-minute DVD mailed to 46,500 members in battleground states.

Workers International Association, wrote in his October newsletter, sent to every active and retired member, and accompanied by a DVD making the same case.

The umbrella federation, the AFL-CIO, can also reach millions of union voters — 2.1 million in Ohio alone — and their $250 million political operation has become increasingly sophisticated. They’ve focused on Ohio, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Michigan and Wisconsin, AFL-CIO spokesman Steve Smith said.

“The union programs for Obama are the firewall in those states," said Smith. "If we do our job, McCain doesn't win any of those states. If McCain doesn't win any of those states, McCain doesn't win the presidency."
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1108/...


I applaud these good people for encouraging each other to vote for the best man and to finally, finally look past color.