FUCK YEAH

Tester delivers another THUMPIN’ to Bush.

I will never forget this day.

Blue, it’s the new black!

Here’sssssssssssssssss Johnny!!

It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood, a beautiful day in the neighborhood…

I love how Bush sounded like he didn’t know what had hit him this morning. Fantastic :)

MSNBC had “AP declares…” on their site then 30 seconds later changed it to “NBC declares…”

god i love how many decisions the AP makes for everyone else

And oh ya, I really hope this guy has some power over OSHA getting some actual power and brings workplace safety back into the dialogue, ergonomics standard ‘07!

Rob Zuber @
2

Tester delivers another THUMPIN’ to Bush.

I will never forget this day.

Ditto. To paraphrase both the famous song from the Passover Seder and our friends at Mastercard:

If we had only squeaked by to take the House, it would have been enough.

If we had won the House easily but just lost the Senate, it would have been enough.

If we had swept the House and squeaked into the Senate, it would have been enough.

But watching the idiot Rumsfeld get booted back into private life within a few hours?

Priceless. This is the happiest day of my (political) life.

Truly amazing.

You all have done an absolutely fantastic job of amputating that diamond ring finger that twirled the cane of venality…..

.

WOOOHOOOO!!!!

So… is VA in the bag now too?

reviser @ 8

Rob Zuber @
2

Tester delivers another THUMPIN’ to Bush.

I will never forget this day.

Ditto. To paraphrase both the famous song from the Passover Seder and our friends at Mastercard:

If we had only squeaked by to take the House, it would have been enough.

If we had won the House easily but just lost the Senate, it would have been enough.

If we had swept the House and squeaked into the Senate, it would have been enough.

But watching the idiot Rumsfeld get booted back into private life within a few hours?

Priceless. This is the happiest day of my (political) life.

Dont be happy yet man. the real work begins in january. We NEED to stay active, we need to get more people involved- we elected alot of people who will slip if we let them, we can’t let them

We deserve to be happy, but only because now we finally have people who will listen to us, but if we don’t scream, they won’t hear us.

At the moment, the VA site has Webb up by 7,297 votes.

99.88% Reporting
Candidates Party Vote Totals Percentage
J H Webb Jr Democratic 1,172,544 49.55%
G F Allen Republican 1,165,247 49.24%

http://sbe.virginiainteractive.org/index.htm

Senator Tester – heehee!

WoofuckingHoo!

What a great day.

TO quote Queen : Another one bites the dust.
That song is going to be running through my head ALL DAY!
Yeeeeha!

Jane, next time you go on Countdown, you can sport the Tester flattop. Now that’s Twisted!

Who’s next up at the woodshed? My money’s on Mehlman. Hastert’s staff is going to take a hit, too. That Foley report is going to have to come out before the new House session starts.

Woohoo for Tester and YEA for our side! Lordie mama, the House big win and most likely the Senate help make up for Lamont’s loss.

Cripes, I nearly had a heart attack when I heard Rummy was stepping down thinking “Oh no, they’re not going to put Lieberman in his spot.” Whew!

Please God let Dan Burton resign.

Now all the generals who said, “fire Rumsfield,” are getting the chance to say, “we told you so.” Yesterday was about rejection of a regime and accountability; today is becoming about Bush/WH credibility, and the Bush WH is losing it today.

Oh god dang!

I love John Tester and I approve this message!!

Now, to Virginia ….

Tester’s Blue, but that barn has to stay red. There are some things you just don’t mess with.

Congrats to Mr Tester and those who struggled for him!

One jerk is not off to the dustbin of history.

I will now begin my Happy Dance.

SusanD @ 23

I will now begin my Happy Dance.

I’ve been doing the Democratic Bootie Shake” all day long.

I attended the Tester pre-primary Pearl Jam concert in Missoula way back in ‘05. John struck me as an average Joe who cared about good government.

What a great pickup in the Senate. Don’t lose the gut or the flat-top Sen. Tester!

OT–Limbaugh just admitted he’s through “carrying water” for the gutless, leaderless Republican party. He can no longer “assume the responsibility for their success,” “provide cover,” or make them “look good.” He feels “liberated.” Let the games begin….

–

Clap clap clap.

Now if MacacaWitz will only live by his words from the 2000 campaign, and fold without making them count, thus doing one decent thing in his long campaign of smear, fear and deceit.

Limbaugh is a whore

CityGirl @ 26

OT–Limbaugh just admitted he’s through “carrying water” for the gutless, leaderless Republican party. He can no longer “assume the responsibility for their success,” “provide cover,” or make them “look good.” He feels “liberated.” Let the games begin….

–

The rats are jumping ship.

testaroo @
10

WOOOHOOOO!!!!

So… is VA in the bag now too?

No, but I am.

OT…somewhat…

Sung to the tune of the Geto Boys “Damn, It Feels Good To Be A Gangsta” from the movie Office
Space:

Damn, it feels good to be a Democrat
Feedin’ the poor and helpin out wit they bills
Although we was on the outside
Now we’re on the Hill makin’ deals

Now all I gotta say to you
Wannabe, gonnabe, right wing, red-state Republi-rats
When the grim reaper comes what the hell you gonna do?
Damn it feels good to be a Democrat.

Rock on Jane, Redd and all…

CityGirl @ 26

OT–Limbaugh just admitted he’s through “carrying water” for the gutless, leaderless Republican party. He can no longer “assume the responsibility for their success,” “provide cover,” or make them “look good.” He feels “liberated.” Let the games begin….

–

Seriously?

Pat Buchanan says “the neocons are completely out of the picture now.” He thinks that Rice, Hadley, along with Gates, Baker, et al, are not neocons and don’t support those policies.

Where are Barney and Laura? I had hopes for Barney.

Of all the many (and there are many!) races that went well yesterday, Tester’s is the sweetest. Running his own way, in a state that has been so terribly red, and beating a corrupt incumbent — it just doesn’t get any better than that. Thank you Tester, and thank you all your tens of thousands of supporters. You are America.

Thad

CityGirl @ 26

OT–Limbaugh just admitted he’s through “carrying water” for the gutless, leaderless Republican party. He can no longer “assume the responsibility for their success,” “provide cover,” or make them “look good.” He feels “liberated.” Let the games begin….

–

He’s stoked… Now he can go back to popping 30 oxycontins grab a handfull of boner pills and head back down to the Child Sex Trade capital, Dominican Republic again.

BiiiiG Smile for Senator Tester.
:-D

He’s a good guy. Democrats are good people. Today, is a good day.

http://cache.wonkette.com/asse…..wolffe.jpg

Is this the hot reporter everyone’s gushing about?

Tester’s damn near perfect. I love the guy. Down to earth, warm, old-time Montana family — and he grows organic vegetables.

I’ll tell you who else I like: Nancy Pelosi.

Matter of fact, I like Tester and Pelosi a lot more than I like Hillary and Obama…

Anyone have a decent link to a video of Tester’s victory speech? I found one, local Montana news, http://www.montanasnewsstation.com, but there doesn’t seem to be any audio for the actual clip (except for the ad at the start)

Frank Probst @ 24

SusanD @ 23

I will now begin my Happy Dance.

I’ve been doing the Democratic Bootie Shake” all day long.

I’ve had this grin (well, you know what kind of grin I mean…) on my face all day and I can’t seem to get rid of it. Not that I want to.

*g*

BTW, I heard a report (rumour) on NPR this morning that Hastert might resign from Congress altogether. Anyone else caught wind of this?

If the Foley fallout is as bad as I think it’s going to be, Hastert’s indeed toast.

Joy to the world
all the boys and girls
joy to the fishies in the deep blue sea [who actually may survive now….]
Joy to you and me.

via Kos

And Allen on the Today show 11/8/2000:

The morning after Election Day 2000, when Florida was counting absentee ballots, George Allen said, “we’ll need to move America forward as soon
as those votes are cast.”

Well, he can certainly talk the talk, but as for the walking part, ah, not so much…

Peterr @
21

Tester’s Blue, but that barn has to stay red. There are some things you just don’t mess with.

I vote for him to keep the crewcut too.

Two years ago, all the Republican 2008 presidential wannabees were trying to line up the GOP consultants who led Bush and Co. to victory. Unlike most of the others, Rove held himself above the fray. He refused to sign on with one camp or another, assuming (correctly) that he signing on with one 08 candidate would piss off the rest, just when Bush would need them to get stuff through Congress.

2008 is right around the corner, but things have changed. Rove’s myth of electoral omnipotence took a big hit, and working with Congress is only going to get harder.

Will Rove sign on with a 2008 candidate now? Or should I say, will a 2008 candidate want Rove on the staff now?

mc @ 41

Frank Probst @ 24

SusanD @ 23

I will now begin my Happy Dance.

I’ve been doing the Democratic Bootie Shake” all day long.

Hastert is resigning according to Think progress.

I’ve had this grin (well, you know what kind of grin I mean…) on my face all day and I can’t seem to get rid of it. Not that I want to.

*g*

BTW, I heard a report (rumour) on NPR this morning that Hastert might resign from Congress altogether. Anyone else caught wind of this?

If the Foley fallout is as bad as I think it’s going to be, Hastert’s indeed toast.

Reactions/quotes from Schumer, Feinstein and Redi — all saying this is step in the right direction. Jeez, why can’t they ask whether Rumsfeld was an independent author/implementer of the disasterous policy? Who’s policy was this? Who led the country? Who make the this blunder?

CityGirl @ 26

OT–Limbaugh just admitted he’s through “carrying water” for the gutless, leaderless Republican party. He can no longer “assume the responsibility for their success,” “provide cover,” or make them “look good.” He feels “liberated.” Let the games begin….

–

What??

Virginia radio station, 2 in a row:

We Are the Champions
Takin’ It to the Streets

Nate @ 46

mc @ 41

Frank Probst @ 24

SusanD @ 23

I will now begin my Happy Dance.

I’ve been doing the Democratic Bootie Shake” all day long.

Hastert is resigning according to Think progress.

I’ve had this grin (well, you know what kind of grin I mean…) on my face all day and I can’t seem to get rid of it. Not that I want to.

*g*

BTW, I heard a report (rumour) on NPR this morning that Hastert might resign from Congress altogether. Anyone else caught wind of this?

If the Foley fallout is as bad as I think it’s going to be, Hastert’s indeed toast.

Oops.. Answered in the wrong part of the comment. Think Progress is reporting that Hastert is “stepping down”.

So very nice! 1000x thankyou! I feel so much lighter this morning. ‘Vote by Mail’ for the future of this country. It works here in Oregon.

Hastert stepping down from leadership role in Repug party.

Hi there egregious… Lovely day isn’t it?

My 6 and 28 is looking better and better.

LOVELY day indeed.

Hey Nate when does the ‘08 campaign begin?

Peterr @ 45

Two years ago, all the Republican 2008 presidential wannabees were trying to line up the GOP consultants who led Bush and Co. to victory. Unlike most of the others, Rove held himself above the fray. He refused to sign on with one camp or another, assuming (correctly) that he signing on with one 08 candidate would piss off the rest, just when Bush would need them to get stuff through Congress.

2008 is right around the corner, but things have changed. Rove’s myth of electoral omnipotence took a big hit, and working with Congress is only going to get harder.

Will Rove sign on with a 2008 candidate now? Or should I say, will a 2008 candidate want Rove on the staff now?

Interesting. You would think McCain wouldn’t want him because of their ugly history, but then again McCain’s been known to twist himself into a 5-dimensional pretzel if he thinks it’ll help himself.

Maybe Giuliani?

egregious @ 55

LOVELY day indeed.

Hey Nate when does the ‘08 campaign begin?

08′ hell… Doolittle will be indicted, probably in the next 30-90 days and I’m already working on Charlie’s Special Election which is mandated by CA election law.

While fighting the rain and CT traffic coming home to NJ, it occured to me that Ned spoke out and focused the dialogue of the election on the war. All though he didn’t win his race, America won, and Rumsfeld lost.

You start a process by speaking out and taking action. Fate and destiny take over and you never know where it’s going to lead. Howard Dean spoke out about the war, and did not end up as President. He did end up instituting the 50 state strategy, and look how golden that turn out last night.

While listening to Ned’s concession speach last night I could help but think there are great things ahead for
him and for us. I felt proud to be a small part of his effort, and on Monday three strangers from CA, NJ and CT worked together as concerned citizens for our country. One man united us in a common cause, and for me I will take that inspiration and keep on working.

The ever brilliant Scarborough and Nora just pronounced that Cheney is no longer the major influence in the WH.
So the WH story line is: (1) we got rid of Rumsfield; (2) Cheney is not the decider (3) Realists will be listened to. Therefore, all is fine now.

They are still lying, and Rove is still there, trying to control the story.

Woooooohoooooo!
On to Virginia! I’m pleased to think my ancestral state (my dad’s side goes back to 18th c. Va and WVa) will put us in control for sure!
Jane, Christy, TRex, Pach, and everybody else – you rock, rock, rock. Much like TRex said in Late Night – finding FDL gave me hope early this year after years of despair. Jane’s alerting us to Ned Lamont gave me more hope – and his victory in the primary gave me permission to hope some more. I’m truly sad he seems to have lost this election, but it’s true that CT primary got everything else started. Certainly for me, and I think history will judge it that way, too.
My health let me down again recently and I couldn’t block walk or phone bank (and yeah, my local district don quixote, John Courage, lost to a long-term incumbent), but I wrote, emailed, and donated small amounts to as many BlueAmerica folks as I could.
None of that would have happened without FDL. I admire you all so much!

46% of a district that only has a 32% Dem registration voted for Charlie yesterday. This district not only NEEDS him… They WANT him. They just don’t all know it yet! :)

Nate @ 57

egregious @ 55

LOVELY day indeed.

Hey Nate when does the ‘08 campaign begin?

08′ hell… Doolittle will be indicted, probably in the next 30-90 days and I’m already working on Charlie’s Special Election which is mandated by CA election law.

Keep me on your list of supporters.

“Blue America, Fuck Yeah!”

best money i ever spent.

egregious @ 55

LOVELY day indeed.

Hey Nate when does the ‘08 campaign begin?

It started this morning, at the press conference.

Nate @ 57

egregious @ 55

LOVELY day indeed.

Hey Nate when does the ‘08 campaign begin?

08′ hell… Doolittle will be indicted, probably in the next 30-90 days and I’m already working on Charlie’s Special Election which is mandated by CA election law.

I have the same hopes for my guy in the MI-08. Just waiting for the special election.

Ok: a coup a day keeps the goopers at bay; But two so far — now they’ll all go away!

FDL is the epicenter of the biggest political earthquake since 1776. King George messes in his bed…again.

Wet clean-up aisle 1600.

Oh Thank You Ladies of the Lake!!! Your Fired O’Glakes have done their culling work artfully!

:~}

egregious @ 54

My 6 and 28 is looking better and better.

YOU! are! the man! (the muffin man, from what I understand). I gladly, happily and with great glee, bow to your glory!

What??

Limbaugh just admitted that he’s been lying in order to support the Republicans and he’s happy he doesn’t have to lie anymore.

That argument, while seemingly bizarre, probably makes sense to the lizard brain ditto heads in his audience. :)

Nate @ 52

Hastert stepping down from leadership role in Repug party.

It’s more like his leadership role is stepping down from him thanks to American voters.

This country gained so much from Dean’s apparent loss in ‘03. Today would never have happened without it. (btw, don’t forget Dean’s connections to Lamont, either).

Many times I heard him say that the American people eventually get it right. or usually get it right.

It’s been Karmageddon, allright.

Unless something freaky goes on with provisional ballots or the likely recount, Webb definitely has VA.

Of the 3 precincts that show as not reporting, only one appears to be a real precinct: Raynor Precinct in Isle of Wight county. In the 2005 governor race it only had 177 votes total. If it keeps the same 53-43 Republican split, that only gives Allen one or two dozen votes against a lead of seven thousand for Webb.

The other two precincts are in James City, and appear to be procedural. One spare absentee precinct, and one blank double of a precinct already listed. I don’t know why they’re there, but in 2005 they both registered no votes.

Isle of Wight 2006
Isle of Wight 2005

James City County 2006
James City County 2005

Think they bail on the Allen recount since it will show what they did with the robocalls, and other voting problems? In other words going into the recount means they expose anything they were counting on not coming out until he was re-elected?

gleex @ 72

Think they bail on the Allen recount since it will show what they did with the robocalls, and other voting problems? In other words going into the recount means they expose anything they were counting on not coming out until he was re-elected?

Tricky. Without Macaca they lose Congress altogether. They’ll fight it as hard as they can, IMO.

scarecrow @ 59

The ever brilliant Scarborough and Nora just pronounced that Cheney is no longer the major influence in the WH.
So the WH story line is: (1) we got rid of Rumsfield; (2) Cheney is not the decider (3) Realists will be listened to. Therefore, all is fine now.

They are still lying, and Rove is still there, trying to control the story.

And the new replacement for Rumsfeld is both CIA and Iran-Contra. I think he was selected in part to help keep the involvement of Hadley and the others in the illegal buildup to the Iraw war under wraps. AND he may have been chosen to lead the drive for a possible Iran move (he knows from Iran and secrets remember?). Now Bush – and his war cronies – is beholden to no one now, and there are always unforeseen things that happen that could precipitate engagement.

scarecrow @ 59

The ever brilliant Scarborough and Nora just pronounced that Cheney is no longer the major influence in the WH.
So the WH story line is: (1) we got rid of Rumsfield; (2) Cheney is not the decider (3) Realists will be listened to. Therefore, all is fine now.

They are still lying, and Rove is still there, trying to control the story.

That’s a good point. This idea that 6 years of bitter Bush partisanship and an Iraq policy that has been a disaster for 3 1/2 years can be undone overnight with a single resignation just goes to show how numbingly mindless the corporate media is. If they think a wave of the wand will fix everything, they live in the same fantasyland as Bush.

Falling back on more of the Iran Contra / Desert Storm cons who lead us into this insanity in the first place is not change, just window dressing.

Millineryman @ 58

While fighting the rain and CT traffic coming home to NJ, it occured to me that Ned spoke out and focused the dialogue of the election on the war. All though he didn’t win his race, America won, and Rumsfeld lost.

You start a process by speaking out and taking action. Fate and destiny take over and you never know where it’s going to lead. Howard Dean spoke out about the war, and did not end up as President. He did end up instituting the 50 state strategy, and look how golden that turn out last night.

While listening to Ned’s concession speach last night I could help but think there are great things ahead for
him and for us. I felt proud to be a small part of his effort, and on Monday three strangers from CA, NJ and CT worked together as concerned citizens for our country. One man united us in a common cause, and for me I will take that inspiration and keep on working.

Thank you for your hard work, Millineryman. I wish I could have joined you in CT. I think you’re assessment is correct. Dean and Lamont changed the conversation in 2004 and 2006, and come 2007 we must begin to bring the troops home, for their sakes, for the sake of the Iraqis, and for the sake of the world.

I did some volunteering for Linda Stender in NJ-07. She came closer than anybody did in defeating an incumbent NJ Congresscritter this year, and she’s talking about continuing the fight for 2008. I’ll be there to help.

Me, I’m happy about the House and Speaker Pelosi, but I’m thrilled about the Senate and the prospect of Judiciary Committee hearings that Chairman Leahy will have. And I’m cautiously optimistic that Harry Reid won’t give Holy Joe any meaningful assignments.

Time says Hastert is giving up his leadership position in the party. He’s not resigning from the House. The article does say he’s long said he won’t seek reelection in 08.

Millineryman @ 58

While fighting the rain and CT traffic coming home to NJ, it occured to me that Ned spoke out and focused the dialogue of the election on the war. All though he didn’t win his race, America won, and Rumsfeld lost.

You start a process by speaking out and taking action. Fate and destiny take over and you never know where it’s going to lead. Howard Dean spoke out about the war, and did not end up as President. He did end up instituting the 50 state strategy, and look how golden that turn out last night.

While listening to Ned’s concession speach last night I could help but think there are great things ahead for
him and for us. I felt proud to be a small part of his effort, and on Monday three strangers from CA, NJ and CT worked together as concerned citizens for our country. One man united us in a common cause, and for me I will take that inspiration and keep on working.

Absolutely. Ned refocused the entire race and made the entire country wake up and take notice long before the national election. He helped shape the direction of this race.

And we also have Dean to thank. He was dead-right with his strategy and Emanuel dead-wrong.

Ned lost a battle, but we all won the war.

This is from a Glenn Greenwald post. All of it is perceptive, but especially the last paragraph. Stop worrying about alleged genuises and machinations, keep your focus on getting the real issues out, which is why Dem’s won.

(5) The basic mechanics of American democracy, imperfect and defective though they may be, still function. Chronic defeatists and conspiracy theorists — well-intentioned though they may be — need to re-evaluate their defeatism and conspiracy theories in light of this rather compelling evidence which undermines them (a refusal to re-evaluate one’s beliefs in light of conflicting evidence is a defining attribute of the Bush movement that shouldn’t be replicated).

Karl Rove isn’t all-powerful; today, he is a rejected loser. Republicans don’t possess the power to dictate the outcome of elections with secret Diebold software. They can’t magically produce Osama bin Laden the day before the election. They don’t have the power to snap their fingers and hypnotize zombified Americans by exploiting a New Jersey court ruling on civil unions, or a John Kerry comment, or moronic buzzphrases and slogans designed to hide the truth (Americans heard all about how Democrats would bring their “San Francisco values” and their love of The Terrorists to Washington, and that moved nobody).

All of the hurdles and problems that are unquestionably present and serious — a dysfunctional and corrupt national media, apathy on the part of Americans, the potent use of propaganda by the Bush administration, voter suppression tactics, gerrymandering and fundraising games — can all be overcome. They just were.

Bush opponents haven’t been losing because the deck is hopelessly stacked against them. They were losing because they hadn’t figured out a way to convey to their fellow citizens just how radical and dangerous this political movement has become. Now they did, and as a result, Americans see this movement for what it is and have begun the process of smashing it.

bbuster:
“It’s been Karmageddon, allright.”

Ooh, good one.

From Drudge
“Next shoe to fall in Bush WH: John Bolton as US-UN ambassador?… Developing…”

Yosemite Sam to take a bullet?

Sparkles the Iguana @
38

http://cache.wonkette.com/asse…..wolffe.jpg

Is this the hot reporter everyone’s gushing about?

He appears on Countdown.

Imagine how many GOP $millions were spent in Ct. and what that might have done elsewhere.

T- @ 82

From Drudge
“Next shoe to fall in Bush WH: John Bolton as US-UN ambassador?… Developing…”

Yosemite Sam to take a bullet?

Wasn’t his appointment due to expire anyway, given that he can’t get confirmed by the Senate?

It’s important to remember that Hastert was chosen by Tom Delay mostly for his ability not to get in the way of Delay’s dealings. With Delay gone, Hastert had no one left to shill for. Unlike Delay, he was never able to lead House Republicans effectively, in their criminal enterprises or in anything else.

Small update from VA site:

Webb lead now up to 7,325 votes (was 7,286).

T- @ 82

From Drudge
“Next shoe to fall in Bush WH: John Bolton as US-UN ambassador?… Developing…”

Yosemite Sam to take a bullet?

How good is this rumor? If true, I need to break out the *good* scotch.

Hugh @ 86

It’s important to remember that Hastert was chosen by Tom Delay mostly for his ability not to get in the way of Delay’s dealings. With Delay gone, Hastert had no one left to shill for. Unlike Delay, he was never able to lead House Republicans effectively, in their criminal enterprises or in anything else.

He jammed the Medicare bill through pretty effectively.

Nate I just sent you a little Elections thank you. Keep up the good work. Love the video interviews, you’ve got a real talent going.

Phil @ 84

Imagine how many GOP $millions were spent in Ct. and what that might have done elsewhere.

Lieberman insurance policy, good for wind damage, not floods.

Wonder what kind of day Mitch MConnell and Trent lott are having?

hola, peeps. don’t know if this made the rounds yet, but it pretty much sums up how I feel. Via Sir Oolius, over at Coerelus:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v…..&eurl=

I love Montana!

Alert: on NPR Talk of the Nation: Patrick Leahy, right now. Ike Skelton (sooon-to-be-chairman — like the sound of that).
on WaPo live onlne – Dan Froomkin.

It’s drudge, they usually use him for trial balloons and soft landings.

CityGirl @ 26

OT–Limbaugh just admitted he’s through “carrying water” for the gutless, leaderless Republican party. He can no longer “assume the responsibility for their success,” “provide cover,” or make them “look good.” He feels “liberated.” Let the games begin….

–

The house of Republican hypocrisy and spoils-based loyalties is collapsing, and now it’s a fight for personal survival amongst various Republican gangs. Who will throw whom under the bus next? The Bushies could very well be blaming (at least partially) Rush Limbaugh and his ilk, especially in Missouri – so how deliciously ironic is it that Limbaugh – the ULTIMATE Bush apologist – blames them.

Dem leaders would do well to 1) stand above and out of the way of this party imlosion and let them mutiny against each other (a la Seinfeld: “ah, that’s a shame”) while 2) offering a clear set of positive priorities and leadership that inspire an authentic and truer unity/common-ground.

In an environment in which the political culture is finally being reshaped/redefined and Republicans’ true colors are showing (to more people than just us), the Dems have a great opportunity to define themselves well. I’ve never been so hopeful about this in my life.
Bring on Speaker Pelosi!

What a day!

beard5 @ 88

How good is this rumor? If true, I need to break out the *good* scotch.

Uhhhggg, did that last night. Now I have to break out the *good* Tylenol.

I wasn’t gonna drink until the checkered flag waved, but tonight I can!

Yay, Tester! Not just any ole Dem, but a hopefully independent one.

6 and 28, egregious? Much better than my wishy-washy 4 or 5 and 24.

prostratedragon @ 100

Yay, Tester! Not just any ole Dem, but a hopefully independent one.

6 and 28, egregious? Much better than my wishy-washy 4 or 5 and 24.

I still stand by my 435/100.

scarecrow @
59

The ever brilliant Scarborough and Nora just pronounced that Cheney is no longer the major influence in the WH.
So the WH story line is: (1) we got rid of Rumsfield; (2) Cheney is not the decider (3) Realists will be listened to. Therefore, all is fine now.

They are still lying, and Rove is still there, trying to control the story.

That would be my guess. Rumsfeld’s departure probably does mean that Cheney is less influential, but who let him be influential in the first place? The same people are in power, and they haven’t done a thing yet that they weren’t forced to do. If they were really interested in helping the Republican party, in fact, they probably would have fired Rummy a couple of months before the election.

Both the timing and futility of this move suggest that the same people who have brought us a six-year long string of futile and ill-timed decisions is still in charge.

scarecrow 59

Did you happen to catch chimpy’s presser a lil’ while ago?

In between whining, pity-me-blabberings & limp jokes, Jr actually took one of his patented nasty little swipes at Rover, of all people, essentially blaming him for the election outcome.

oooooooooo trubble in the bubble? oh it be!

Hugh @ 75

scarecrow @ 59

The ever brilliant Scarborough and Nora just pronounced that Cheney is no longer the major influence in the WH.
So the WH story line is: (1) we got rid of Rumsfield; (2) Cheney is not the decider (3) Realists will be listened to. Therefore, all is fine now.

They are still lying, and Rove is still there, trying to control the story.

That’s a good point. This idea that 6 years of bitter Bush partisanship and an Iraq policy that has been a disaster for 3 1/2 years can be undone overnight with a single resignation just goes to show how numbingly mindless the corporate media is. If they think a wave of the wand will fix everything, they live in the same fantasyland as Bush.

I thought Bush’s presser was a clear signal that this is more spin than accepting reality. He went out of his way to suggest that the country has real problems that need bipartisan efforts, as though the problem the country has had for 6 years is Dems refusing to work with the him and his party and put the nation’s interestes first — the reality is that Rove’s strategy through the last three elections has been an in-your-face, no compromise exclusionary policy based on the theory that if you hold your radical rightwing base, shut out the awake Dems, and lie to those in between, you could win. Well, they lost using that approach, but they have not yet accepted the lesson.

The Bush regime has been as arrogant and non-bipartisan as we’ve seen in our lifetimes, but he’s trying to make it appear that if only those liberal Pelosi-ites would cooperate a little, the country could move forward. Then he said we need to work together on entitlement programs — the precise set of issues on which compromise with this Administration has always been impossible and on which the Administration did everything they could to (1) freeze out the Dems on all discussions and (2) use people like Lieberman to give them cover.

There is nothing honest going on here.

Chimpy is terrified – believe it.

Sparkles the Iguana @ 89

Hugh @ 86

It’s important to remember that Hastert was chosen by Tom Delay mostly for his ability not to get in the way of Delay’s dealings. With Delay gone, Hastert had no one left to shill for. Unlike Delay, he was never able to lead House Republicans effectively, in their criminal enterprises or in anything else.

He jammed the Medicare bill through pretty effectively.

Medicare Part D was passed in the House on November 22, 2003 at 6 AM by a vote of 220-215 after the vote was held open for 3 hours, something of a record. Delay was not indicted in Texas until 2005.

Twisted Martini @ 99

I wasn’t gonna drink until the checkered flag waved, but tonight I can!

One Scotch, one Bourbon, one Beer.

Add some Good Ol’ Grateful Dead.

Spin. When in doubt, spin.

Adie @ 103

scarecrow 59

Did you happen to catch chimpy’s presser a lil’ while ago?

In between whining, pity-me-blabberings & limp jokes, Jr actually took one of his patented nasty little swipes at Rover, of all people, essentially blaming him for the election outcome.

oooooooooo trubble in the bubble? oh it be!

Jeff Gannon will be called to the WH tonight to do some serious massaging. ;-/

CityGirl @ 26

OT–Limbaugh just admitted he’s through “carrying water” for the gutless, leaderless Republican party. He can no longer “assume the responsibility for their success,” “provide cover,” or make them “look good.” He feels “liberated.” Let the games begin….

–

Hey Rush, thanks for carrying all that water for Sen Talent. How’s the back?

Richmond @ 108

Adie @ 103

scarecrow 59

Did you happen to catch chimpy’s presser a lil’ while ago?

In between whining, pity-me-blabberings & limp jokes, Jr actually took one of his patented nasty little swipes at Rover, of all people, essentially blaming him for the election outcome.

oooooooooo trubble in the bubble? oh it be!

Jeff Gannon will be called to the WH tonight to do some serious massaging. ;-/

Ted Haggard will be there for that one.

egregious @ 90

Nate I just sent you a little Elections thank you. Keep up the good work. Love the video interviews, you’ve got a real talent going.

I just got the email egregious… Thank you so much. You are a sea breeze in my sails!

Daniel Ortega has been reelected in Nicaragua, looks like they’re bringning Bob Gates back just i the Nick O’Time!

Excellent planning…wrong war. [/snark off]

White House Caught Doctoring “Mission Accomplished” Video

Balrog @ 110

Richmond @ 108

Adie @ 103

scarecrow 59

Did you happen to catch chimpy’s presser a lil’ while ago?

A foursome?! Yeah we are all now free from the zaugerrnaut prison. Bless them every one.

In between whining, pity-me-blabberings & limp jokes, Jr actually took one of his patented nasty little swipes at Rover, of all people, essentially blaming him for the election outcome.

oooooooooo trubble in the bubble? oh it be!

Jeff Gannon will be called to the WH tonight to do some serious massaging. ;-/

Ted Haggard will be there for that one.

My 3-point reaction on the Rumsfeld firing resignation and Gates designation, beside lack of surprise on the first part:

They sure know how to fuck up a party, don’t they. Could have used a day without breathing dust.
I sure will be glad when a working recollection of the Iran-Contra Affair is no longer a necesssary skill for parsing the day’s news.
[My actual first thought] Once you become a zombie there’s just no turning back, is there?

Richmond @ 114

Balrog @ 110

Richmond @ 108

Adie @ 103

scarecrow 59

Did you happen to catch chimpy’s presser a lil’ while ago?

A foursome?! Yeah we are all now free from the zaugerrnaut prison. Bless them every one.

In between whining, pity-me-blabberings & limp jokes, Jr actually took one of his patented nasty little swipes at Rover, of all people, essentially blaming him for the election outcome.

oooooooooo trubble in the bubble? oh it be!

Jeff Gannon will be called to the WH tonight to do some serious massaging. ;-/

Ted Haggard will be there for that one.

I meant to write: A foursome!

And, let the zigaurats out of their prison cells please. They have been hidden in the darkest dungeon for over 24 hours and need some fresh airing.

My honey just said he’s bringing champagne home tonite.

We have not celebrated yet, because of 2000 and 2004.

I’m starting to beleeeeeeeeeeeve.

yay!

bye bye Rummy, Burns and Allen and so many more.

and Lieberpoop, we still have you in the crosshairs, we’ll never forget.

(my honey woke me up hollering “we did it”. he went to bed at 10; I went to bed at 3– he said “hurry up and check the news, but I think we did it– we finally won– it’s Christmas!”)

Cujo359 @ 102

Both the timing and futility of this move suggest that the same people who have brought us a six-year long string of futile and ill-timed decisions is still in charge.

And Cheney has made enough for Haliburton (Camen Island Bank account much?) to afford caged quails until the souless carcass finally runs out of juice.

The first withdrawal from Iraq needs to be the unquestioned support of the military industrial complex. I’m sure Ike is spinning at about 4000rpm.

I know this is just a deop in the bucket. but I am proud to say that my candidate for our State Legislature won in a 10 point vICTORY over a long entrenched and unopposed incumbant. I took Christy’s assertion that all politics are local to heart and worjed hard on this race and I agree that we have to start working even harder to help clean up the mess that has been made by these Neanderthals!

twolf1 @ 113

White House Caught Doctoring “Mission Accomplished” Video

What slimeballs!

1970cs @ 92

Wonder what kind of day Mitch MConnell and Trent lott are having?

Trent Lott is having a pretty good day, I think. He’s going to be Minority Leader. Not as good as Majority Leader, but he’s not going to have to shoulder any of the blame (Paging Dr Frist!) for the loss of the Senate. He’s one of the few Republicans who are going to come out ahead when the dust settles.

scarecrow and hugh @104

Agreed, the lesson hasn’t been internalized. But it’s not only coming from the voters, there is another external force in play: Poppy. Rumsfeld’s resignation is an even bigger indicator of White House internals than losing Congress.

The appointment of Gates indicates Bush the Elder (who has long been Gates’s benefactor) is bailing Dubya out of his biggest mess yet, and that Jim Baker’s upcoming Iraq report will hit harder and have more immediate effect than almost everyone has thought it could.

In practical terms, Syria and Turkey will have to be bought off with oil revenues and security. The Kurds will be supplied with US weapons and training to balance Iran and the Shiites in Iraq. And Iran will have to be put up with, embraced and kept close, so it can be undermined gradually.

In terms of the Great Game, this means the US will likely follow a policy of stalemate and containment in the Mid-East versus Russia and China, and this is what should’ve been followed in the first place. The Cheney/Rumsfeld “Leapfrog and Oil Lock-Up” Plan was audacious, but had little chance of working because of reckless naivete. It was A Baghdad Too Far.

Millineryman @ 58

And we also have Dean to thank. He was dead-right with his strategy and Emanuel dead-wrong.

And Chris Bowers: Fifty State Strategy

Democracy rules!

Scarborough: “…Nancy Pelosi’s Democratic party….”

music to my ears.

And listening to Bushie try to mea culpa his way through his press event today, I hope La Nancy takes him to the blackboard like Bart Simpson and makes him write “Democratic Party” 10,000 times….

So has the deadpool started on just when Chee-knee has to resign for health reasons and Bushie appoints his new veep/successor for ‘08? Guess what, McCain, it ain’t gonna be you.

CNN – McCain will be making comments on Rummy’s resignation. They will apparently be showing it live – I don’t know why anyone would care.

Sorry-I have to get this out..a purging…

That sick twisted evil bastard Rumsfeld is GONE!!! Can Congress still subpeona him as a private citizen?

Ever since he snapped back at that soldier that had the audacity to ask a question about armor. FUCK YOU Rumsfeld, you thought you were invincible-we showed you otherwise.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

I’ll shut up now.

MarcLord @ 122

scarecrow and hugh @104

Agreed, the lesson hasn’t been internalized. But it’s not only coming from the voters, there is another external force in play: Poppy. Rumsfeld’s resignation is an even bigger indicator of White House internals than losing Congress.

The appointment of Gates indicates Bush the Elder (who has long been Gates’s benefactor) is bailing Dubya out of his biggest mess yet, and that Jim Baker’s upcoming Iraq report will hit harder and have more immediate effect than almost everyone has thought it could.

In practical terms, Syria and Turkey will have to be bought off with oil revenues and security. The Kurds will be supplied with US weapons and training to balance Iran and the Shiites in Iraq. And Iran will have to be put up with, embraced and kept close, so it can be undermined gradually.

In terms of the Great Game, this means the US will likely follow a policy of stalemate and containment in the Mid-East versus Russia and China, and this is what should’ve been followed in the first place. The Cheney/Rumsfeld “Leapfrog and Oil Lock-Up” Plan was audacious, but had little chance of working because of reckless naivete. It was A Baghdad Too Far.

I don’t think it’s Poppy calling the shots. I think it’s Barbara. The woman that Richard Nixon said “knows how to hate”.

Adie @ 103

scarecrow 59

Did you happen to catch chimpy’s presser a lil’ while ago?

In between whining, pity-me-blabberings & limp jokes, Jr actually took one of his patented nasty little swipes at Rover, of all people, essentially blaming him for the election outcome.

oooooooooo trubble in the bubble? oh it be!

Adie, I caught only the tail end of it. Any self-respecting President would fire Rove, immediately, along with Mehlman. The image these two creeps give the Republican party would be recognized as a major political problem. Exit polls said that the image of corruption/dishonesty was a major factor, as much as the war, on voter decisions. So why are these creeps still there?

It’s possible that the Rumsfeld “resignation” is there to control the news, and the Rove/Mehlman resignations will happen Friday afternoon trash dump. If that doesn’t happen, then my more cynical views apply. I am not in a charitable mood today.

twolf1 @ 126

CNN – McCain will be making comments on Rummy’s resignation. They will apparently be showing it live – I don’t know why anyone would care.

McCain (like Hilly) must be shaking in his boots. His ‘base’ just up and disappeared -33% of evangelicals voted with the Dems.

LMAO southpaw, please tell us how you really feel! ;)

What a great photograph – He looks like what Montana should look like.

Stocks Turn Higher on Election Results

http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/061108…..html?.v=29

So much for THAT prediction of gloom and doom.

Wall Street LOVES a divided government

angie @ 11:58 am (#117)

My honey just said he’s bringing champagne home tonite.

We have not celebrated yet, because of 2000 and 2004.

I’m starting to beleeeeeeeeeeeve.

yay!

bye bye Rummy, Burns and Allen and so many more.

and Lieberpoop, we still have you in the crosshairs, we’ll never forget.

(my honey woke me up hollering “we did it”. he went to bed at 10; I went to bed at 3– he said “hurry up and check the news, but I think we did it– we finally won– it’s Christmas!”)

I think you can believe it. The House is in Democratic hands. It remains to be seen how the Senate goes, but we may at least have acheived a cloture-proof minority. One can hope, at least.

The question marks I see at this point:

- Can Webb hold that lead in Virginia?

- Will Lieberman stay true to character and caucus with the Republicans?

There are other undecided races at this point, but I think those are the ones that directly affect the political balance in DC.

- Can Webb hold that lead in Virginia?

It is a certainty.

Opps, quote in 123 should be attributed to SharonW. I tried to deziggy and chopped the wrong part!

I am glad Rummy is gone. However, what direction will the US military take now. I am not talking about Iraq but as most who read this blog know, the administration was moving toward more special forces and also changing the doctrine to lighter, more high tech force. This could be like the Titanic trying to change course with a rudder that is too small. I suspect there may be confusion if the new SecDef has different ideas.

What Thad Beier said.

All that, and a bag of chips.

Senator Tester.

Gawddamnitall, does that sound great or what???

cnn – mccain speaking now.

AZ Matt @ 137

I am glad Rummy is gone. However, what direction will the US military take now. I am not talking about Iraq but as most who read this blog know, the administration was moving toward more special forces and also changing the doctrine to lighter, more high tech force. This could be like the Titanic trying to change course with a rudder that is too small. I suspect there may be confusion if the new SecDef has different ideas.

Hopefully, there will be less ’stop-loss’ and weakening of our position vis-a-vis redeployment for other crisis-if need be. Maybe it’ll help morale?

pwstrain @
14

TO quote Queen : Another one bites the dust.
That song is going to be running through my head ALL DAY!
Yeeeeha!

A good YouTube of that. So appropriate.

southpaw @ 127

Sorry-I have to get this out..a purging…

That sick twisted evil bastard Rumsfeld is GONE!!! Can Congress still subpeona him as a private citizen?

Ever since he snapped back at that soldier that had the audacity to ask a question about armor. FUCK YOU Rumsfeld, you thought you were invincible-we showed you otherwise.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

I’ll shut up now.

As you can see, you have lots of company here. That stupid bastard got quite a few of our people killed because he was simply too arrogant to listen to the experts around him. He deserves to be remembered as one of the worst Secretaries of War/Defense ever.

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful,
committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.
–Margaret Mead

One of my favorite sayings. It’s up to us to keep fighting, and to insure that our effort and legacy is one that becomes more then a comma in the history books.

Great props to everyone who lent support to our victory in the way they could.

southpaw @ 140

AZ Matt @ 137

I am glad Rummy is gone. However, what direction will the US military take now. I am not talking about Iraq but as most who read this blog know, the administration was moving toward more special forces and also changing the doctrine to lighter, more high tech force. This could be like the Titanic trying to change course with a rudder that is too small. I suspect there may be confusion if the new SecDef has different ideas.

Hopefully, there will be less ’stop-loss’ and weakening of our position vis-a-vis redeployment for other crisis-if need be. Maybe it’ll help morale?

They’re bringing him in because he’s the only onw who knows how to work the shredder.

Is there a Web site where one can get results for all House races?

Richmond @
130

McCain (like Hilly) must be shaking in his boots. His ‘base’ just up and disappeared -33% of evangelicals voted with the Dems.

I have a feeling the ole Maverick is going to start straight talking again.

AZ Matt @ 12:05 pm (#137)

I am glad Rummy is gone. However, what direction will the US military take now. I am not talking about Iraq but as most who read this blog know, the administration was moving toward more special forces and also changing the doctrine to lighter, more high tech force. This could be like the Titanic trying to change course with a rudder that is too small. I suspect there may be confusion if the new SecDef has different ideas.

I doubt that the new SecDef will have different ideas, at least not that different. Don’t forget, this change started in the Clinton Administration. If we as a country decide that we just aren’t going to get involved in wars for oil and other economic reasons, then maybe there will have to be a rethinking of priorities. Until then, that’s the sort of military we’re going to have no matter who’s in charge.

Marclord,

I agree about Baker the Bush family consigliere being sent in to clean up the mess. I heard Gates is a member of Baker’s Iraq Study Group and as SecDef he would represent at the least a challenge to the Cehney/Rumsfled axis.

I don’t agree about doing a deal with Syria because of our alliance with Israel. It was reported 2 days ago in Haaretz that the Israeli general staff is busily planning a war with Syria next year. If we were to do a deal with Syria, we would have to lean on the Israelis to back off. I don’t see this happening.

As for the Kurds, both the Turks and the Iranians see them as a threat because of their own restive Kurdish populations. The Kurds and Turks would need to do their own deal and while this is possible it would be difficult.

Finally, I agree that our policy will at some point return to one of containment, this time of the chaos in Iraq. Russia is a player but does not have the economy to be a major one. China is a longer term concern but is also further away. With regard to it, we need to decide what we want our policy toward China to be, something if have yet to do.

Her’s an interesting link: title: “Let the Oversight Begin!”

http://www.niemanwatchdog.org/…..ndid=00139

Top ten list – Iraq benchmarks; Afghanistan; Nuclear proliferation; Intelligence oversight; Detention, interrogation & military commissions; the unitary executive; signing statements impact; regulations and expertise; contracting; and…ta da…the power of the purse.

McCain CNN- points out corruption was biggest factor in 19 states for GOP losses

Richmond 114 AND 116

Free? Oh no yer not, buster!?!

How’d you put yer comment under my byline?!

Foul! Ziggerpolice Help!

Oh the humanity!!!!!!! aaaaaaaaarrrrgh

Since I’m mostly talking to myself, it must be time for a new thread.

Cozumel @ 133

Stocks Turn Higher on Election Results

http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/061108…..html?.v=29

So much for THAT prediction of gloom and doom.

Wall Street LOVES a divided government

Gasoline and oil prices also rose today.

CNN has a link to track House races:

http://www.cnn.com/ELECTION/20…..lts/house/

Hope that smug, arrogant bastard goes before the press corp one more time!

McCain just gave his platform for his presidential run. Such a BS’er. Where is Mrs. McCain these days?

I’ll just pull this one up from the last thread, re: Mr. Gates. This is a speech by Tom Harkin on the floor of the Senate in 1991.

I doubt Mr. Harkin has forgotten it.

Cujo359 @ 142

That stupid bastard got quite a few of our people killed because he was simply too arrogant to listen to the experts around him. He deserves to be remembered as one of the worst Secretaries of War/Defense ever.

Another Republican, Abraham Lincoln, had a Secretary of War named Edwin Stanton. He is widely regarded as the biggest butthole (a stylized term for those in the know) by American historians. I think Rummy’s abilities in this regard are the only thing to commend him. He is much, much more accomplished and will be remembered as the greatest asshole (another term) to date. I only wonder when he will be given the Medal of Freedom.

montag @ 157, I saw that, too.

RE: VA:

Gillespe quoted at F*X news:

“The conclusion of the canvass will be the final official results,” Gillespie said.

HOLD HIM TO IT.

scarecrow 129

These people are absolutely evil! I’m scared to death what they will try to do before they are forced out of power.

I was for impeachment a long time ago, and I STILL feel the same way, but I don’t know if even that would act quickly enough.

I THINK it might make me feel a little better if cheeeney goes ASAP, but is he even under anyone’s control these days? Seems to me, he’s running the whole sick show.

I guess we return to pestering Congress, both old and new, sigh.

scarecrow @
34

Pat Buchanan says “the neocons are completely out of the picture now.” He thinks that Rice, Hadley, along with Gates, Baker, et al, are not neocons and don’t support those policies.

Where are Barney and Laura? I had hopes for Barney.

We need to start oppo research immediately on Gates for the hearings that will come. Even if he gets appointed, we need for the public to know exactly who they’re getting here. Knowledge is power.

AZ Matt @ 137

I am glad Rummy is gone. However, what direction will the US military take now. I am not talking about Iraq but as most who read this blog know, the administration was moving toward more special forces and also changing the doctrine to lighter, more high tech force. This could be like the Titanic trying to change course with a rudder that is too small. I suspect there may be confusion if the new SecDef has different ideas.

A lot of this has to do with marrying the military you have to the missions you expect. You do not build a Rolls-Royce and then use it to deliver coal. We built a military that could intervene quickly and project great force for a limited period of time. This was a military that could move in and overthrow a Saddam Hussein but was never large enough or trained for occupation duties. It was a samurai sword used to cut wood. It didn’t work. It isn’t working. If we had wanted an occupation capable army, then this is what we should have been converting our military into over the last 3 1/2 years of the Iraqi conflict. I am not advocating or defending our Iraq policy here. What I am saying is that given the kind of army we had we should not have gone into Iraq as we did. If we had wanted to go in and depose Saddam Hussein and then leave (although I don’t know exactly what purpose this would have served), we could have done that. What Rumsfeld chose to do was go to war with the army he had and then not adapt it to the war he was fighting.

Phil @
84

Imagine how many GOP $millions were spent in Ct. and what that might have done elsewhere.

Speaking of which, any luck finding that petty cash of Joe’s? Wonder if it will get mysteriously paid back, as if it never happened?

CityGirl @ 26

OT–Limbaugh just admitted he’s through “carrying water” for the gutless, leaderless Republican party. He can no longer “assume the responsibility for their success,” “provide cover,” or make them “look good.” He feels “liberated.” Let the games begin….

Shorter Limbaugh: Limbaugh is toast.

–

No no no Tester in a moderate conservative all the Dems who won last night are. I just heard it on Talk of the Nation.

Hugh @ 148

Marclord,

I agree about Baker the Bush family consigliere being sent in to clean up the mess. I heard Gates is a member of Baker’s Iraq Study Group and as SecDef he would represent at the least a challenge to the Cehney/Rumsfled axis.

I don’t agree about doing a deal with Syria because of our alliance with Israel. It was reported 2 days ago in Haaretz that the Israeli general staff is busily planning a war with Syria next year. If we were to do a deal with Syria, we would have to lean on the Israelis to back off. I don’t see this happening.

As for the Kurds, both the Turks and the Iranians see them as a threat because of their own restive Kurdish populations. The Kurds and Turks would need to do their own deal and while this is possible it would be difficult.

Finally, I agree that our policy will at some point return to one of containment, this time of the chaos in Iraq. Russia is a player but does not have the economy to be a major one. China is a longer term concern but is also further away. With regard to it, we need to decide what we want our policy toward China to be, something if have yet to do.

Didn’t say it would be easy to implement, just that it’s The Plan, and it’s a more soft-power oriented way to wall off Russia and China from the world’s oil. Chaos in Iraq is not congruent with oil extration, and the Baker Plan will seek to establish stability as quickly as possible. That means dealing with and buying off the Muslim stakeholders in the region whilst playing them off against each other. It worked in the past century, and it will work again. All this is in the Iraq Study Group paper. (”Wait and see” is about all I can offer.) Also, check out the Richard Haass article in Foreign Affairs, “The New Mideast.” The Haass article is the signal to the elite that the old game is curtailed, and outlines the rules to the new one.

Everyone Burns will not concede even though he LOST — we need to keep our guard up!!!! He is as crooked as they come and he has a Repub sec of state to “recount” the votes right….I hope the legal teams are in place!

MarcLord @ 122

scarecrow and hugh @104

Agreed, the lesson hasn’t been internalized. But it’s not only coming from the voters, there is another external force in play: Poppy. Rumsfeld’s resignation is an even bigger indicator of White House internals than losing Congress.

The appointment of Gates indicates Bush the Elder (who has long been Gates’s benefactor) is bailing Dubya out of his biggest mess yet, and that Jim Baker’s upcoming Iraq report will hit harder and have more immediate effect than almost everyone has thought it could.

In practical terms, Syria and Turkey will have to be bought off with oil revenues and security. The Kurds will be supplied with US weapons and training to balance Iran and the Shiites in Iraq. And Iran will have to be put up with, embraced and kept close, so it can be undermined gradually.

In terms of the Great Game, this means the US will likely follow a policy of stalemate and containment in the Mid-East versus Russia and China, and this is what should’ve been followed in the first place. The Cheney/Rumsfeld “Leapfrog and Oil Lock-Up” Plan was audacious, but had little chance of working because of reckless naivete. It was A Baghdad Too Far.

Marclord@122 – thoughtful post.

There is more at stake than seeing some of the slimeballs slide off the poop deck of the Titanic. With the neocons being heaved overboard, who will manage the Great Game? Chimpster, Cheney, Libby, Wolfy, and the other neo-con architects of this debacle have been thoroughly outgamed by Ahmadinejad, Putin, Kim Jong Il, Hu Jintao, and Mokhtar al Sadr. We must do better. Two more years of this and we are going to find our options very limited.

Prediction:
While Chimpy McLame Duck sleeps and calculates how to keep the records of the administration locked up in Yucca Mountain for 20,000 years, Putin and Amedinejad build a wonderful nuclear twin-star system that is the new gravity in the Middle East.

US forced to sit idly by, being tied up in Stay-the-Quagmire. Kim perfects ICBMs that reach LA and China is too busy cutting oil deals with Teheran and Caracas to pay any real attention to our hollow threats.

This is the true legacy of this bunch of smart alecks without military experience, or passports. Into this scary scenario, sired by the dime-novel fake cowboy hero from Andover, comes indeed and ironically the Axis-of-Evil – the real one, the one the neo-cons gave birth to. Prophetic, pathetic, and the next thing to focus on after getting the country in the hands of some honest people.

Time to become adroit at bridge building (Europe), influence (China), and realpolitik (Russia, Iran). Not this crowd’s forte.

Show me the democrat who can operate at this level and you will have the right presidential candidate to back.

Netroots helped to make yesterday what it was – now to fix the presidency and our place in the world. Got anyone in mind?

Anybody that looks this much like Meat Loaf has to be a Bat Out of Hell senate reformer. Rock the Senate!

Nice haircut, John.

Here’s a thought: the senate gave itself a raise recently. PAINT THE BARN!