If Joe Biden announced that you got tested for AIDS the moment after he announced his own AIDS test, how quickly would you clarify that you didn’t get tested with him?
Let’s go to last night’s debate transcript:
SEN. BIDEN: … I got tested for AIDS. I know Barack got tested for AIDS. (Laughter.) There’s no shame in being tested for AIDS. It’s an important thing.
[snip]
MR. SMILEY: Thank you.
SEN. OBAMA: Tavis, Tavis, Tavis, I just got to make clear — I got tested with Michelle. (Laughter, applause.)
MR. SMILEY: Ah.
SEN. OBAMA: In — when we were in Kenya in Africa. So I want to –
MR. SMILEY: All right.
SEN. OBAMA: I don’t want any confusion here about what’s going on. (Applause continues.)
MR. SMILEY: All right.
SEN. BIDEN: And I got tested to save my life, because I had 13 pints of blood transfusion.
SEN. OBAMA: I was tested with my wife.
MR. SMILEY: And I’m sure Michelle appreciates you clarifying it.
SEN. OBAMA: In public. (Laughter.)
I don’t think Barack Obama is indulging in frat boy humor, but Lane Hudson does:
With one comment, he erased the possibility that he would start a meaningful conversation in the Black community about this serious issue. This seems to reveal not only some level of homophobia, but also a level of immaturity which causes me to question Obama’s ability to go all the way in this campaign.
I also don’t think Senator Obama was worried the audience would think he’s got some secret thing with the gentleman from Delaware, as Alexander M Belenky at TNR does:
So while he’s all for combating homophobia within the African American community, it seems he also doesn’t want anyone to get the impression that he’s on the down-low.
Gentlemen, please! There are a number of possibilities, and only Barack Obama knows his intent. Which door do you think Senator Obama is behind?
Door Number One: “I got tested with my wife, to whom I am faithful.”
Door Number Two: “I got tested with my wife, to whom I am faithful, while we visited an AIDS clinic in Kenya, in order to set an example.”
Door Number Three: “I got tested with my wife, not with this guy who’s talking about his own test — because I am faithful to my wife and not (secretly) gay for him, which would be horrible and disgusting.”
Door Number Three? Not so much, for me.
As Digby says:
Haha. It seems that one of the other likely interpretations I missed is that he wanted to make sure nobody thought he was having an affair with Joe Biden, which is perfectly understandable from members of either sex.
Joementum Bidenphobia: The irrational fear of sexual attraction to the senior Senator from Delaware. Don’t we all have a wee bit of it?
Related posts:
- Will Obama Even Meet with the Progressives?
- Late Night: Obama and the Bite Me Point
- Biden to Smack Boehner Around on Stimulus
- Late Night: Obama Scandalizes Conservatives, Inexplicably Refuses to Cock-Slap Random Foreigners During UN Appearance
- Health Care: Arm Twisting, Obama Style? Reid, Baucus to the Oval This Morning
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T!
Zed?
TRex, that is!
tres?
TSF!
Hiya TSF!
…or not.
Seriously, calling this frat-boy humor is just the lamest of the lame.
And please, can we not put “sexual attraction” and “Joe Biden” in the same sentence? Some of us haven’t had dinner yet…
TRex!!!
I almost want to use the lines of an old Jimmy Buffett song…Ah what the hell, “My whole world lies waiting, bee-hind, door number two.” (The song actually says door number three but my vote is Obama was opening door number two.)
SnarKassandra @ 6
Hey Cassie – staying dry?
Glad to hear your brother’s helping out the locals.
Mutant Poodle @ 10
Yep, we even had sunshine most of the day. But still lots of storms in the forecast.
Teh press will not give up the annals of the event.
Well, Joe does have a certain je ne sais quoi. (Sp?) But, when I called his office recently on one of our issues…I got the number for his campaign office and gave them my email address. Nuttin’ honey. But, I do get an email Every Single Day from Edwards. So, I guess he’s not all that crazy for my vote. I do love a good strong Irishman, though.
hello, everyone!
Mister TRex asked me to sit in for him tonite — and I wanted to bring you this little kerfuffle, which ran around the blogosphere today.
What did you think motivated Barack Obama to ask the moderator for a chance to reply to Biden? In my community, it’s not cool to bring others’ HIV tests into the discussion. That’s where I think Senator Obama was coming from.
Teddy, a pleasure to have you lead Friday night!
TSF, doesn’t CA have a privacy law specifically about AIDS testing?
Evening all. Hey TSF!
In a nanosecond. Just the idea of sex with Biden calls for an industrial strength bottle of brain bleach.
TeddySanFran @ 14
Good point. It would generally fit the definition of “nunya.”
What I’m anxiously awaiting, is this same Audience’s reactions to the Rethugs!!! I anticipate a few Kod*k moments!!! *g*
And Hillary was not asked nor told whether she had a test? Please, this is absurd.
OT…but worth a read
China Passes a Sweeping Labor Law
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/30/bus…..mp;emc=rss
US companies are throwing a fit and the Chinese government to them to get fucked.
My immediate reaction to Biden saying that I had been tested for AIDS would have been who the hell gave you permission to talk about my medical history? I sure as hell didn’t.
bg @ 20
Women are more likely to get it from a man then men are to get it from a woman. Or so they told us. Course it’s Texas so you never know.
Democratic candidates are all so juvenile.
Ron Paul for grown-ups.
My ex-husband used to date a woman Biden wanted to marry. While Biden isn’t someone I support, I do follow him with great interest!
Suzanne @ 22
Ditto. Really uncool and off base.
demi @ 13
But you do get all those offers for cheap V**gr* and C**l*s, don’t you?
Suzanne @ 16
Yes.
Clearly Kenya’s laws are different, since Barack and Michelle got tested “together,” which doesn’t really happen here. Partners can go in to get tested together, but each test is confidential (or anonymous) and discrete to the individual.
Senator Obama had just made some very strong statements about HIV and homophobia in the African-American community — at Howard University to a largely black audience. I don’t think he was back-pedalling for the homophobe vote.
GordonM @ 27
I get a million of those offers and i am a 15 yr old girl!
Such rugged hair plugs…Majestic multiple chins…Adorable inch-deep crows feet…Stylish bat wing eyebrows…Why, he’s Joechritudinous!
;>)
Seriously, though, this isn’t the first time that Biden has trod heavily on someone else’s sensitivities to get a soundbite, IIRC.
Sorry, TSF. I got in too much of a hurry there.
TSF!!!
SnarKassandra @ 23
Actually that is true for the most common strain of HIV found in America (actually transmission is most common from penetrator to penetrated regardless of sex). Several varieties found in Africa, the Caribbean, and Asia are more readily transmitted from women to men.
Suzanne #22, I think that’s the correct response. Maybe followed with the question: “Are you finished revealing what you know of my medical history?”
Most uncool is that some would see this as Obama’s opportunity to “connect” on this issue with the black community.
I guess it was good for him to blow it off with humor at the end, but really, I am offended that there would be some kind of push on this story linked to how Obama should have seized the moment or what?
Oh, AIDS is just a topic one should expect at a Howard U event? Gimme a break.
demi! — Is je ne sais quoi French for Teef-n-Tufts?
SnarKassandra @ 23
I believe it doesn’t matter whom is infected! My HS Sex-Ed never knew about Aids, IRCC, 1983 was it’s coming out party!!!
Maybe it was a continuation of the earlier kerfluffle over Biden calling Obama articulate. Biden does have a motor mouth that sends out some weird things at times. Obama could just be tired of it.
Obama’s test was televised; to promote awareness and encourage people to get tested. Not exactly done in private. He speaks about it on the campaign trail. I think jumping on Joe and clarifying they didn’t have one together was kind of lame.
GordonM @ 27
Never! I don’t get any spam mail. Ever.
1976.
RonD @ 32
And my follow up would have been is mine the only one you have looked into, and if so, why only me?
Of course, I’m a bitch with a headache so factor that in but still, if Biden had said that in CA about a CA test, I believe he would have committed a crime. Before the law changed, rape victims had to beg a judge to get a rapist tested and then beg again to get the results released to her.
Dru @ 37
True, but, also give Obama the due credit for where and why, he did it!!! *g*
TeddySanFran @ 14
well, yeah. That seemed a wee bit familiar…although, iirc, Obama was pretty open about it when he went to Kenya, and did it to encourage the same among Africans
Snort!
And I get the willies when Joe Biden just emails me.
I missed the debate. When I read about the exchange, it just seemed odd to me. Why on earth would Biden announce that he and Sen. Obama have had AIDS tests? It’s one thing to talk about your own health, but quite another to start talking about medical treatments or tests your colleagues have had. While I’m sure Biden had no malice in mind, it was just weird and odd. His foot-in-mouth disease continues. I had to wonder if he was going to say, “you see, that’s actually what I meant when I said Sen. Obama is ‘clean’.”
Suzanne @ 41
Do you know the thumb pressure point?
bg @ 39
If you are rferring to the first appearance of the HIV virus in humans, the best available evidence is that it had been present in West Africa for a century or two prior to its spread to Europe, America and the rest of the world. Gotta love globalization and improved transportation.
I view Biden’s gratuitous reference to Obama’s AIDS test, to bolster his own argument in behalf of his own candidacy, as somewhat akin to John Kerry’s talking about Mary Cheney’s sexuality in a debate, which I thought was somewhat out of line.
Run on your own merits, Biden, if you have any. Don’t try to use another candidate’s personal life to toot your own horn.
Suzanne I am sorry your head hurts. :(
bg @ 39
Really? Medically Diagnosed?
Actually, I guess when the virus became active in the US. . .which is sad to say when we found out about it.
DrDick @ 45
Ain’t technology grand!!! :-D
TeddySanFran @ 35
Well, I don’t know…ha ha.
There just been some times I’ve seen him on tv, was it Bill Maher, where I was impressed, but, then he does have that foot in mouth thingy going too many times.
I’m guessing Obama had the same reaction I would have – I’d be pissed somebody else disclosed my medical info (how the hell did Joe know?). Obama’s not exactly in the forum to say “joe, STFU” so he had to pull a safe answer out of his ass.
I’m in the old South, and once you cull out the fundies, most folks’ answer regarding possible gayness is ‘Yep’ or ‘Nope’.
30 years ago such a question could lead to fisticuffs, so progress is being made.
what fuckery is this???
(I have soooo been waiting for a chance to say that.)
I think Biden’s heart is probably in the right place, overall….but, for the luva Gawd, he is SUCH a clunkily bumbling idiot, so CONSTANTLY, he makes John Kerry look like a veritable genius of charisma.
bg @ 49
The original documented AIDS patient in the US (the first documented point of its spread from West Africa) was in the 1980s, but the epidemiologists traced it back earlier.
oddmommy @ 53
But John Kerry never made me laugh. It’s too bad that Biden has foot ‘n mouth disease because I believe that he is very smart. Edwards is still my candidate.
Biden was out of line for bringing that up like that, even if Obama did it in public. But Obama’s response seems like overcompensation. Maybe he was just being quick and witty, but there’s an undercurrent to his comments.
I find this whole thing bizarre and tinged with homophobia. An AIDS test is just a blood test, it’s not some elaborate medical process. AIDS can be transmitted through all kinds of risky behavior, including heterosexual sex.
Maybe I’m humor-impaired tonight, but ugh. It’s been twenty years since the horrors of Reagan and AIDS, can’t we be more scientifically mature about it by now?
Mutant Poodle @ 44
thumb and forefinger pressing on the earlobe?
I thought it was first linked to intercontinental travel, big ships, NYC, bicentennial.
demi @ 38
Ah. Well, then, I have $[huge amount] that my [relative] embezzled from the gov’t of [3rd world country], and I seek your urgent assistance in getting it out of this [3rd world country]! If you’ll just send me the deed to your eldest daughter, a Mercedes and a pound of Columbian coke, I’ll split it with you!
Suzanne @ 22
Commenters elsewhere have discussed that the Obamas publicly discussed being tested on their African trip, but yes — the principle still holds.
Here’s a comment thread I found instructive, from Pam’s place:
There’s a whole lot of P.O.V. in this exchange: who are you, what did you hear, what did the man mean??
it’s worth mentioning that he also mentioned the problem that the stigma of homophobia causes efforts to encourage AIDS testing. I find it hard to believe that he would then turn around and play the part of a homophobe to the audience, especially considering he had plenty of other opportunities to pander and did not. Obama was making a joke: pointing to the absurdity of the circumstance in which one U.S. Senator would out another in a national debate in front of their families. If the two were having an affair what a way to bring it out in the light of day. That being said, he probably should have just let it go. I think Obama has been a pretty consistent supporter of the idea that gay bashing is an ugly enterprise. maybe someone should record a question on dont ask dont tell for the you tube debate.
The most amazing thing about AIDS is that it is almost completely preventable by behavior change–use of condoms. The virus is fragile & must be transmitted with exchange of fluids, otherwise doesn’t survive.
Now what does it say about human behavior if men choose to take a high risk of dying rather than use a condom? Women in Africa often don’t have the choice of requiring their partners to wear one, but men can guaranty their own safety, and don’t, in large numbers.
puppethead @ 56
One would certainly think so. This is, after all, 2007.
Suzanne @ 58
thumb and forefinger pressing on the fleshy part of the hand between the other thumb & forefinger – find a spot that hurts a bit, and if your headache is on one side of your head, press the other side. Only hit one side. Press for 30 seconds, then gently release.
neurophius @ 31
That’s entirely okay, I used to do that to Pach alla time too!
bg @ 58
As I recall, (and the story may have changed) the person responsible for the spread of the disease out of Africa was a gay airline steward.
Biden is kind of what G.W would be … if he didn’t have handlers, talking points and prescreened audiences Obama handled this well he took the test with his WIFE. We need Biden to debate some Republicans he likes in a friendly debate Biden seems to hurt his friends and his own side more than he does anything else. To bad I like his split Iraq into 3 seperate states plan.
Must say, I think Biden’s nice-looking. Nothing to do with the question, I know, but I don’t get the suggestion that he’s repulsive. Quite the opposite.
Now, Fred Thompson: in his case, I don’t get the suggestion that he’s hot. Once again, quite the opposite.
And my headache is gone, cuz my blog is back up after a 48-hour crash.
Oy.
Much easier to write posts than notes to tech support.
Dru @ 38
Others make the point, though, and I have to agree — Biden’s “disclosure” got a reaction from the audience. Obama may have felt he needed to address that reaction.
The question seems to be, among those who observed it and have watched it multiple times: what was the audience’s reaction?
Mutant Poodle @ 64
giving it a try and thanks.. i’ll do the side that hurts worst first then switch. how long before it starts to make it all better?
oddmommy @ 53
But he’s such a good Irishman, who could not want to have a beer with him?
So maybe Obama was reacting to the audience, not really worrying about the “low-down” himself as much as making sure the audience knew more about the context of his test.
Is it better to have this discussion if we realize that whatever the context, the topic was in the open?
Has anyone heard from Alfred today? Just wondered if he was okay after his fall yesterday.
GordonM @ 60
I don’t know, Gordo. Just lucky? I never order anything on line, and I’m careful about who has my eaddress. Filters? I dunno. And, no you can’t have my daughter. (she’s pretty cute though) :)
Suzanne @ 72
Do thje side that hurst worst and be done with it – switching doesn’t help.
Relief, if it’s gonna work, shoulc be fairly immediate. And remember, it should hrt a bit when you’re pressing…
Twain @ 74
Alfred fell? I had not heard about that.
neurophius @ 47
That is exactly what it reminded me of, and thank you! I could not put my finger on it. You did.
things come undone @ 68
I think it’s the only solution. There must be others than Biden who think so too. I know it has drawbacks and risks…..but it’s sure as hell better than any “plan” the bushits have come up with, and it bothers me that it is never discussed.
He said last night that he was going to bed early because he hurt all over from a fall.
DrDick @ 67
Sounds like what the British Navy has been accused of for the last century and a half!!! 8-)
ok, mp, giving it a try – one side only
Twain @ 75
In today!
I don’t think Obama’s reaction was inherently homophobic. I think the same reaction would have been appropriate if Hillary Clinton had stated in such a presumptious fashion that she and Senator Obama had both been tested for HIV. He was rebutting the possible inference that he had been involved in extramarital sex. And he was doing so in a humorous fashion, because Biden had violated his personal space, not because Biden had necessarily implied that Obama was gay.
Suzanne, hope you feel better soon.
GordonM @ 73
yeah. I can just imagine him rip roarin drunk in a pub, bellowing “Wild Rover”……
solai @ 69
You just don’t see what Tweety sees in him. Course Tweety only gushes about how Manly white, very Republican men, are who interestingly enough I’m pretty sure none of them ever served in the military. Tweety just loves him some Prowar ChickenHawks.
newtonusr @ 84
Thanks
Twain @ 81
I still hurt all over from the Fall of 2004–but I don’t think that is what he meant.
Patient Zero was a gay airline steward. There were a lot of people in NYC for the bicentennial celebration in 1976, big ships. Parties.
That is the start of it in the US. It did take a long time to figure it out, but by 1980, there were serious links to blood transmission, IIRC.
The politics of this then became very problematic, from the gay community to the blood banks and beyond. And the Band Played On by Randy Shilts (a journalist, yes, there were some back in the day), still a very good source of information if anyone wants a quick and compelling read.
CTuttle @ 81
There is also Columbus’s sailor who gave the world syphilis. The spirochete organism was native to the Americas, but manifested as a couple of skin diseases. Contracted by one (or more) sailors on Columbus’s first voyage and brought to Europe where it mutated into a sexually transmitted form. Montezuma’s real revenge (though no comparison to the two dozen plus epidemic diseases introduced into the Americas by Europeans).
AK, if you are lurking here, please feel better.
DrDick @ 77
Yes, and he’s taking care of his elderly dad with Alzheimers. Let me check his site to see if he has posted today.
newtonusr @ 84
Well, a sore wrist and a bruised ego! He’ll be up and at’em shortly! Good to hear!!! ;-)
Ooh, RIP Joel Siegel!!! 8-(
Oh, dear, Alfred has not posted today…I hope he is okay.
OT, since I don’t know much about the topic —-
I have a new post up about food safety, if anyone wants to look. Also, our site got a re-design this week and now you can see the most recent 5 posts.
Also, my other blog was mentioned on MyDD today.
Loo Hoo. @ 96
LooHoo, look up to newtonusr’s *84. He linked to a comment from AK today in the threads.
Well, I am glad to hear that he is all right. Always a problem trying to play superman when you are over fifty. Fortunately wrists and egos heal rather quickly.
oddmommy @ 54
Double snort! Great use of the fuckery, oddmommy!
I missed you all while on vaycay. I honestly did wonder what fuckery I was missing.
Watching Dennis Miller on Fox. What an ass.
TeddySanFran @ 79
actually that was worse…..not only because it was such a bloody stupid thing to say, but because it afforded Mr & Mrs Satan the unheard of opportunity to act the part of good old reg’lar loving parents. Sickening.
One point made elsewhere: an entirely straight guy, as I presume Obama is, more likely thought Biden’s “disclosure” about his test said something about his possible marital infidelity (or perhaps even drug use — horrors!) than about the possibility they “tested together” for purposes of beginning a secret gay love relationship.
Anyone would use that opportunity, I think, to clarify why he tested.
I do think Biden’s foot-in-mouth disqualifies him for the Presidency, though.
Biden has a good plan to split Iraq into 3 seperate states. Dennis is totally against the war a debate on this would be good. Edwards has great health care and workers rights ideas. I think we need to talk about what we like about the various candidates. That and we need to get the Democrats to start stealing each others best ideas, and they need to be presured to dump their loser ideas.
Suzanne, I don’t see a link at 84.
SnarKassandra @ 98
Spiffy look. And congrats on the nice notice on MyDD.
SnarKassandra @ 97
Congrats, Cassie. You are starting to attract attention all over now.
SnarKassandra, you rock!! Congratulations!
newtonusr @ 83
LooHoo sorry – should have said 83
TeddySanFran @ 104
Golly, wouldn’t it be nice if that disqualified Republicans? Who’d make it through?
Mr & Mrs Satan
heh
DrDick @ 108
Yeah, it is really cool!
DrDick @ 92
The White Man’s diseases have had a much more pronounced impact on the Natives, than the reverse!!! The Hawaiians were decimated by the common cold, among other critters, brought by Capt Cook! He also devastated Figi, Tonga, Samoa… 8-(
Um, did anyone else just have a little FDL crash? Or is the NSA targeting me only?
Door number 1…
I’ve said it before. I really like all of our candidates and hope that there’s a place for some of them in the next administration. Including Wes Clarke. Especially Wes Clarke.
did i do that???
CTuttle @ 114
Let’s not forget syphillis…
Mutant Poodle @ 115
no crash here.
Four words: On The Down Low.
The whole thing was fast and quick, but I think Obama’s reaction to Biden’s comment was designed to connect with the African-American women in the audience who are concerned about the men in their lives.
Solai, I’m with you. How about Edwards/Clark?
Loo-
It’s there, hon. He wrote a long-winded thing. Typical Al. Sounded okay.
Mutant Poodle @ 114
part of my response to LooHoo disappeared – other than that, it is working fine on this end
Mutant Poodle @ 115
I’m okay, but then I don’t get spam either.
MP, you got a little black cloud over your head following ya around? First your blog crashed for 2 days … (wink)
solai @ 117
I hope there’s a place for current Senate Democrats from states with Democratic governors in the next Administration as well. For that matter, I hope the next Democratic President will find excellent positions for GOP Senators from states with Democratic governors….
demi @ 125
Why don’t you get spam?
CTuttle @ 113
The real problem is that there were no epidemic diseases in the Americas or Pacific islands (owing to lower population densities and fewer domestic animals). The natives in both areas had not developed any resistance to the diseases and died off in huge numbers (up to 95% population reductions in the first century after contact in many parts of the Americas). The effects were compounded by the introduction of serial epidemics of different diseases. The Europeans (and their African slaves) were a pestilential and disease ridden lot, but at least some people had at least some resistance to the diseases.
Suzanne,
Are you feeling any better?
Want some of my licorice tea?
RonD @ 122
I’ll go Edwards/ Clark… I’d go Gore/Clatk also, last two times uys from Ar and Tn ran, they won the Whitehouse
But, I’d love to see the General in the mix :-)
Mutant Poodle @ 114
Look for the van parked in your neighborhood.
SnarKassandra @ 118
I think we all did it, together.
Congratulations on your MyDD mention; you are now Big League!
SnarKassandra — You may or may not realize it, but you are definitely getting noticed by non-teens in the political blogosphere. You might want to drop the folks at MyDD.com an email, to let them know that you have announced your candidacy for president in . . . whatever year it is that you’ll turn 35.
demi @ 129
not really – and yes please
Peterr @ 134
2032. Cool! I will. I already sent them a thank-you.
SnarKassandra @ 128
I’m not sure. I asked my husband on this, ’cause he’s the computer guy….it’s all about who gets your email address. And spam filters. Do you order things on line?
Mutant Poodle @ 118
Syphilis went from the Americas to Europe, but the death toll was nothing compared to the impact of introduced Eurasian diseases on the Native Americans and Pacific Islanders.
Mutant Poodle @ 119
MP, Oceania was/is decimated by alien critters! Now from different quarters!!! 8-(
demi @ 137
Nope. I don’t have a credit card.
SnarKassandra @ 23
That’s basically true — but understanding why is important. HIV is a retro-virus that infects T-cells — which are only present in blood or blood products, and semen is a blood product. Transmission requires introduction of infected T-cells into the bloodstream through some sort of wound.
The retro virus thingy is interesting — they are RNA viruses, instead of DNA. Retro-viruses only have one set of chromosomes, instead of a paired set; this makes them very weak and unstable, although they mutate very quickly. Retro-viruses are used in gene splicing, because they attach themselves to DNA very quickly.
Another interesting factoid — the Bubonic Plague bacteria and the HIV virus enter T-cells in the same place. In Europe, there was a mutated T-cell gene that protected against the plague; one of the genes gives limited protection, two of them give immunity. Since the people that had the gene were more likely to survive the plague outbreaks, the gene became more common among the survivors. This gene also protects against HIV.
demi @ 137
Can I borrow your husband?
Peterr @ 121
Obama did make a note as Biden was speaking about his AIDS test, then waited for Biden to finish before he asked Tavis to speak. If that was a dog-whistle to the “saw it on Oprah, now I’m worried” women in the audience, Obama is really, really quick.
solai @ 102
I had to sit through an hour of Miller at the University of Maryland Medical School’s Bicentennial dinner a couple of weeks ago. “What an ass” doesn’t tell the half of it. He was so gratuitously racist, anti-environmental, anti-feminist, (you get the picture) that even the wealthy republican doctors sat on their hands. He went off script for about half an hour in singularly boring rant and tried to get back with a lame “well, where was I?” When I left, the VP of Development for the school (who had hired Miller) was getting an earful and there was a line waiting. I think he was paid $40K to piss-off several hundred people. He won’t get asked back to that group again. Didn’t he used to be funny before he turned to the dark side?
DrDick @ 138
Mahalo, Dr(pause)Dick! 8-D
There is disagreement as to just how dangerous the London Mercedes bombs are/were. The London cop who responded to the media said they could have killed hundreds- the renta cop on Olberman said that they could have hurt someone’s eardrums but couldn’t have seriously injured anyone outside the car. So who’s lyin? and who IS the mad Yuppie London bomber?
Tweety is convinced that it’s some moslem from the suburbs takin instructions from Bin Laden.
Does it ever make ya wonder why it is that when humans don’t know anything- they just make shit up.. Disgusting species as Mark Twain remarked
My spam is canned.
Here ya go, Suz…
Have a cup of this.
SnarKassandra @ 140
SnarKassandra @ 139
It is kind of funny, but I get a ton of spam on my work account (God and spammers love university email systems), but almost nothing at home. I do order things online from both locations (mostly just books from work).
thank you, demi
demi @ 149
I dunno, sweetie. Wish I could help. You shouldn’t have to get that Adult Junk Mail.
rwcole @ 146
That was no renta cop — that was Larry Johnson, classmate & defender of Valerie Plame and all-around American CIA hero.
TeddySanFran @ 143
Obama is really, really quick — which in my book is a good thing. I have other reservations about him, but that’s not one of them.
As far as the down low goes, most African-American women don’t need to hear it from Oprah to be concerned. In fact, I’ll bet it goes the other direction — the ordinary women let Oprah in on what’s going on.
rwcole @ 146
That rent a cop was ex CIA officer Larry Johnson… he’s been way out in front of the Plame leak. Good guy, but prolly a conservative. Go visit him at No Quarter.
TeddySanFran @ 153
Peterr @ 142
peterr… shouldn’t you quickly clarify that both you and Michelle would borrow her husband, together? Wouldn’t want anyone to think you’re on the down low… ;)
I think Oprah’s got her own reasons for knowing all about the down-low, but now I’m just as trashy-sleazy talkin’ as Kathy Griffin, so I’ll stop….
Wesley Clark might make a great Secretary of Defense.
Big Mouth Biden could work as Secretary of State. Or Obama. (I don’t think he’s ready for Prez.)
No, wait. Richardson for Sec of State. He’s has mediation experience.
What does anyone else think?
Dee Loralei @ 155
I thought LJ did an effective triage of the hype! I believe it was homegrown, and pretty ineffectual!!! ;-)
Fading fast. Good night all-the best of all possible tomorrows to you all.
RonD @ 161
Good night RonD, I am going to bed too.
Just posted an interesting pic about shame and the military.
CTuttle @ 159
Much like the overhyped “terrorist cells” the Bushies keep uncovering here. To the credit of the British, however, their nincompoops had actually attempted to do something.
Dee Loralei @ 155
Not probably — is. At the Plame panel last year at YKos, he said as much, but he is absolutely appalled at what is being done by BushCo.
Here’s the link.
Night RonD.
AlexandriaCynic @ 144
I think I used to like him. Don’t really remember what his routine was like but I think he was once funny. Apparently 9/11 turned him into a bitter, humorless, obnoxious ass.
How does a terrorist attack make someone a homophobic sexist racist?
demi @ 159
Dennis for the new Dept of Peace. Edwards as Sec of Labor if he isn’t Prez
Evenin’ all !!!
I saw the clip – Biden/Obama – and here’s my $0.02 … Biden was trying for a moment where he would look Presidential … get in front of the AIDS issue and include Obama to try to connect with the African-American people … Obama recognized it and stole Biden’s thunder with a “clever jibe”.
Hillary was very successful at looking at Presidential during the last debate with some of her comments, Obama was prepared to shoot down anyone who tried it this time.
Okay, now I got a headache .. demi … some Licorice tea please …
Night Casie. Keep up the good work at your blogs.
demi @ 159
I think Biden should stay in Congress, where he can bloviate until he’s blue. We need to keep all of our Senators and Congressmen/women in their positions unless there’s a great Blue candidate poised to fill their seat.
I’m with you on Obama – not sure if he’s ready for the big job just yet. Richardson would probably be a great Secy of State. I think Obama would be a decent veep, but more likely would benefit from another term in the Senate. All that said, I’m not sure who my pick is for the big job just yet.
rwcole @ 145
I don’t think there’s any doubt about it. They make stuff up on a regular basis. When will the Americans learn is the real question. So sad…
Ctuttle, I’ve been reading Larry for good while now. I’ve learned to trust him, just as I’ve learned to trust and respect CHS and Marcy and Kane, and the other posters here. And, LOL if you read Larry’s comments on his sight, he says, ‘what do you call a Mercedes with 50 gallons of gas?”…..”An Escalade!”, methinks he was taking snark lessons from the FDL late night crew
Peterr
Are you in LA?
But, when he’s not working the ‘puters, he’s practicing his Hammond B-3 for church! He’s a twofer.
solai @ 166
Miller the dickhead just saw where the money was.
demi @ 159
I think we have an embarrassment of riches.
Time for me to turn in, too. gotta try and get over this jet lag (which is why I feel like eating dinner after midnight!)
G’nite, everyone. Happy snarking to ya.
landofthefree @ 157
707!
But to be clear: I’ve got no problem with being gay — but lying about it to your partner is a big problem in my book.
TeddySanFran @ 158
Teddy – I love Kathy!
Maybe she could be Sec’y of State? Huh?
Night LotF.
demi @ 159
There will be a singularly challenging position in the next administration, provided the current incumbent can be persuaded to leave: Attorney General. And, this time, our Democratic President needs to get it right the first time!
solai @ 175
Pretty much everyone running on the Dem side could be easily accepted and sworn in in any cabinet position . Finally, to make a sports metaphor, we have a damned deep bench.
demi @ 173
Nope — SF Bay area.
But I know Obama’s pastor in Chicago, and have heard the organist and choir there. Do not mess with Jeremiah Wright!
TeddySanFran @ 180
Ypu are quite right. How are we ever going to purge all the Regent’s rejects and loyal Busheviks that have been installed? If it was just the political appointees, it would be no problem, but the infection spreads throughout the civilservice classified personnel and they are (rightly) much harder to get rid of.
TeddySanFran @ 180
Fitz!
But, I think he’s a hands-on guy. (no nasty jokes please.) Prolly likes what he’s doing now.
How about Edwards for AG?
Regents’ are hard to get rid of, and (clearly) difficult to shame.
Peterr @ 177
Exactly. I could never understand why someone
would hide something so important as their true sexual orientation from their partner. I’m just generally against cheating & lying, though. Guess that’s one reason that I find the current administration despicable.
Have a good one, all!
G’night DrDick.
DrDick @ 183
TeddySanFran @ 185
Impossible to shame. If they had any shame, they would all have already crawled back under their rocks (or more appropriately would never have taken positions for which they are so obviously unqualified).
DrDick @ 183
I seem to remember taking a test on the US Constitution back in 8th grade, lo these many years ago. Perhaps that would be a good place to start.
And quite frankly, I’m not worried about the civil service folks. They aren’t in it for the politics, or the big bucks. If they were, they wouldn’t be civil service.
demi @ 159
General Shinski should be begged back as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff or Sec of Defense he was the only person was right early on about the war and who had the dignity to quit rather than be a part of it. Plus if we get all the Democratic Presidential Candidates to raise their hands at the next debate on this question.Then we focus public attention where we want it to be.
RonD @ 160
See why I appreciate RonD as the sweetist guy on FDL? He really does speak for all of us. I think
he is under appreciated.
Love you, Ron!
Oh clever Peterr. yes, make the Regents grads take con law test for 8th graders. Heck can we also make the newest members of the SCOTUS take the same test? They also seem to have forgotten the Constitution and Stare Decisis, etc… Effers! ( Sorry Suzanne)
Petrocelli @ 168
Damnit, who left the barn door open again? Somebody is guilty!!! *g*
Peterr @ 190
Unfortunately the Bush administration has been driving out the good CS employees and replacing them with true believers. That is at the heart of the DOJ scandal. They also (illegally) used a political litmus test in making routine hires. that is why little Monica is currently in hot water.
Loo Hoo – Alfred did post on the music thread. Think he’s got an owie’d wrist. Ice it!! Alfred.
Here’s the link:
http://www.firedoglake.com/200…..ent-788579
I just wonder why Obama thought he needed to clarify he was tested for AIDS with his wife, and not with Senator Biden. How many people were thinking the Senators were tested together? Thinking maybe Obama was just trying to be funny.
I have a question?
Are there laws yet regarding personal email?
Dr Dick, my fellow ex Okie, I think on Jan20,2009 we need a complete de-Bushification of the entire federal government. Make it go like 5 deep, anyone hired since 2001 needs to be let go. But make it first and only time. Just because by then, most Americans will be appalled and will desire also to rid our lands of them…..
CTuttle @ 194
Here ya go, Petro…
TeddySanFran @ 180
Patrick Leahy?
Everyone who was hired by Monica’s illegal political litmus test should be made to reapply for their jobs and compete against qualified non bushies. We have to clean out the Justice Dept and if possible pass some laws about Supreme Court Justices recusing themselves from cases where they have conflicts of interests we could call it the Scalia duckhunting law.
demi @ 200
Thanks demi … and I thought peeple in Paradise were hospitable … *g*
Wordsmith @ 197
Last I knew, it still required a court order (ie a search warrant) to get personal email belonging to another because there is still an alleged expectation of privacy. However, IANAL and my knowledge is California state law based.
Yet, there is that still secret room that ATT has in San Francisco so I have no real expecation of privacy left with the current administation and their proclivity to data mine.
Sorry, Petro, the link is in the middle of your quote. But, you can find it, right? You have to work for your tea tonight.
tbsa @ 197
O took that as more him not declaring he wasn’t on the down/low… but more that he was true to his wife and his marriage vows.. it had nothing to do with Biden. or even the fear of being associated with Biden….
My initial response was door number one. Upon further review: door number one.
Dee Loralei @ 199
The problem is that that is illegal (it violates civil service protections). There are literally hundreds of Regent’s grads (among other political hacks) who have been hire by the Bush administration. It is part of a deliberate, concerted effort to subvert the American system of justice to serve Republican political ends.
tbsa @ 197
But, Obama had it done in a Kenyan Aids Clinic, granted a photo-op, yet, the most beneficial kind! Bethseda or Walter Reed doesn’t produce the most effective PR!!! ;-)
tbsa @ 197
I think Obams uses humor to get his message across quite well, like his response to Mike Gravel in the first debate.
Suzanne @ 204
I believe there was a recent federal court ruling that email is covered by the same privacy rights as telephone calls.
tbsa @ 197
Why he felt the need to clarify is indeed the question. In the African-American male community, there is a huge homophobia around homosexuality — thus the comments above about “the down low.” If Obama was trying to be funny, it was at the expense of A-A men and pandering to A-A women.
Neither is a terribly good political move in my book.
things come undone @ 190
Thank you. You are so RIGHT!
By the way, Dee Loralei, where in Oklahoma are you from originally?
I believe there was a recent federal court ruling that email is covered by the same privacy rights as telephone calls.
Which would mean it would require a search warrant to get the information, just as is needed with a phone call. I’ve typed up search warrants to get calls dialed from a payphone located at the scene of a homicide. Pretty standard stuff to local cops – don’t know why the feds have such a problem with warrants.
demi @ 205
Thanks, head is much better now …
No Suzanne @ 204
Oh, no….my sister & hubby filed for divorce. She got access to his email (she’s had it since they’ve had computers), but she found e-letters from his sex kitten and copied them off. She then changed the password to ‘cheater.’ He called and threatened her, saying “you’re in big trouble now. You’ve crossed the line.”
All I can say is – she only has 10 more months to do crazy shit like this before I tell her, it’s driving me crazy! Now stop it.
I’m just glad it’s just me and the cats. :)
Petrocelli @ 203
A mere illusion created by our Tourism Bureau to separate you fools from your $$$!!! :P
DrDick @ 208
I know it’s illegal, but I’m suggesting a “one off” A legalized one and only time we purge our government from these folks and write into the law that any future purging must also show such complete disregard for tenets and laws etc.
If the Dems ever get this supra-law, I want the Reps to have the same opportunity, But I do not want it to be something that occurs everytime the exexutive branch changes parties…. So, I’m saying, sorry unions, this one time. we need to clean house.
Okay….Larry Johnson for National Security Advisor.
Suzanne @ 215
It is not the feds per se, but rather the Bush administration and the Republicans, who hate to have to justify themselves to anyone.
Wordsmith, I don’t know your sister or her hubby, but let me just say that her password switch demonstrates that she has style.
Oh, no….my sister & hubby filed for divorce. She got access to his email (she’s had it since they’ve had computers), but she found e-letters from his sex kitten and copied them off. She then changed the password to ‘cheater.’ He called and threatened her, saying “you’re in big trouble now. You’ve crossed the line.”
All I can say is – she only has 10 more months to do crazy shit like this before I tell her, it’s driving me crazy! Now stop it.
HUGE caveat- depends on state and rules regarding community property but if she is paying the bill for the service, she should be ok. just have her hand the info over to her lawyer – some states, that is useful as all get out (ca is a no-fault divorce state so it would not be useful here)
CTuttle @ 218
Wha’ ?!! You mean the Marley Lovefest is a ruse ?!!
Dee Loralei @ 219
Given what we have seen so far, it is quite likely that we can ax a lot of them on performance grounds (which is entirely legal). Unfortunately, that will create a political shit storm with the Rethugs given the current attorney scandal.
DrDick @ 214
Boomer Sooner, Boomer Sooner
I was born in Norman, but grew up in NY and TN and went to OU, still live in Memphis, but have family in “Podunk” OK, somewhere “East of Jesus” and a wee bit “North of Hell”…
Alex, between Chickasha and Lindsay.
Petrocelli @ 224
Bwhahaha… You shall see!!! 8-D
I’ve survived the divorce from hell with restraining orders, huge custody fight, attempts to blackmail me and the whole nine yards. I got one hell of a landshark woman attorney who didn’t take my ex’s attitude relative to the role of women well.
Good for me :)
Dee Loralei @ 226
Ah. I am from Bartlesville and did my graduate work at OU. My grown son and my sister still live in NE oklahoma.
Good evening dear friends. Hope that all is well!
Myrtle June @ 196
Myrtle, thanks for the good info!
Looks like there’s a nre thread up to continue this conversation.
Suzanne @ 228
Indeed! I was fortunate that all my divorces were reasonably civilized (or at least not particularly vicious).
Suzanne @ 223
If she was given the password or had access to the e-mail previously, I think that’s ok, too.
A good friend of mine is dealing with the same, and it always strikes me how dumb some men can be.
Present company excepted.
Oh, Suzanne. There are only two kinds of divorce. Bad and worse. Sounds like you had the latter. Did things eventually get better between the two of you, since their were children involved?
TexB @ 230
Most certainly, Ma’am! Sounds like all is calm on your end!!! 8-D
Mutant Poodle @ 233
It is a nongendered human trait.
2009 they fumigate the White House. Big truck shows up that says “Exterminator- with a lifesize gooper on the roof- and spray away….hey there’s one tryin ta run away under the carpet- GET HIM.
CTuttle @ 235
Calm indeed. Still a hen party though for at least one more night, probably two.
TexB @ 230
Hey Betsy … whatcha got that goes well with Licorice tea?
rwcole @ 237
Actually, just turn all the lights on and it will drive them away. Nothing Rethugs hate worse than light and transparency.
DrDick @
Ah. I am from Bartlesville and did my graduate work at OU. My grown son and my sister still live in NE oklahoma.
Bartlesville is oil country :-) My mom’s family still lives in Alex. I’m praying my son will go to OU.
rwcole @ 237
I think that the folks in CT who did the “Kiss Float” need to be ready for the inaugnural parade of a democrat.
Petrocelli @ 239
My own tea in a separate cup.
Peterr @ 212
Word, I thought it was weird or an awkward attempt at humor.
DrDick @ 232
Dang, All this horrific talk of divorce, tends to dissuade any wayward thoughts!!! (16 yrs, and counting!) ;-)
Much better – he moved to Utah.
Dee Loralei @ 241
Yep. My daddy was an engineer for Phillips. OU is a good school with some really outstanding programs. What is your son interested in?
Suzanne @ 223
IIRC, in CA any “unauthorized use of a computer” is a felony. But it all depends on the meaning of “unauthorized.”
So far as it is done at the beginning of the Dem administration (as is traditional) not in mid stream it should be fine to remove those who’s performances are lacking.
Anyone for pecan pie? Ice cream on the side.
Suzanne @ 246
Part of the secret for getting along with exes, stay as far away as possible. I actually have not seen my son’s mother in more than 30 years.
DrDick @ 251
My ex and I live a mile apart and share custody. Now THAT can get interesting!
wigwam @ 247
And then there is the community property rule in CA making the computer both of theirs until decided otherwise by the court. As I said, it really does depend on each state’s rules.
G’night all. See you tomorrow.
Thanks Aunt Betsy. I loves me some pecan pie! (Just don’t tell my doctor).
p*k*r Seriously, he’s brilliant. And a fine french horn player. His “future” cjanges pretty much anytime you ask him…..I keep pushing OU, telling him he can be anything he wants there, and he can go to bowl games!
His dad is trying to convince him to go to UofMemphis.
~~~ModNote: Edited for content to clear filters.~~~
DrDick @ 255
It’s lo-cal! And 100% natural. And made with Texas pecans!
TexB @ 250
*wipes mouth*
Thank you.
Oh, did anyone else want any?
*hangs head*
pecan pie!! over here, please….
The President from Hell just got another love note- CBS poll shows him with a career low of 27 percent- they say that certain cockroaches have gotten better ratings. In the meantime- the White House staff is talkin about what big plans the peckerhead has for the remainder of his term. Fuckin stupid!!
Suzanne @ 223
All right, ya’ll – thank you.
Idaho is a no-fault divorce state as well as community property.
They’ve been married some 28 years. He beat on her from the day of their marriage until about six years ago when he went after one of their sons. She intervened, he was choking her, and she called the police. He spent the night in jail. She did it again two years later when he hit her again and this time spent the weekend in jail because his family was out-of-town. She’s kept a lot from us, and she still can be easily cowed like with this threat regarding emails.
Not me….
rwcole @ 259
Plans? What is this “plans” thing of which you speak?
TexB @ 250
Mmmm … thanks Betsy … perfect accompaniment to Licorice tea …
Peterr @ 257
A napkin reverand Peter?
This may sound peculiar, but….
I had a terrific divorce. My ex and I shared a lawyer, and went out to lunch together afterwards. And, I got to keep the girl he had the affair with.
That was 23 years ago, even. Still have the girl.
“Plans”
Must plan to reupholster the furniture in the Oval Office.
Good night Solai.
Suzanne @ 246
I thought all Exes lived in Texas!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7CaP361Q5s
Wordsmith @ 260
God that makes me mad. I just do not understand that kind of situation and there seems to be an unnaturally high incidence here in the west. If you cannot get along with someone, then just walk away.
Shadowstalker @ 264
Please explain. Imaginations making odd guesses.
Ah. I am from Bartlesville and did my graduate work at OU. My grown son and my sister still live in NE oklahoma.
. What is your son interested in?
He’s interested in everything, but wants to play p*k*r He also wants to be a chef, and is a damned fine golfer…he also plays a mean french horn. And he tests at the 99th percentile in pretty much any intelligence tests he takes… Basically, he’s a child with too many options and not enough direction……… ( he’s not unlike his mom).But, I still have hopes for him, LOL.
~~~ModNote: Edited for content to clear filters.~~~
TexB @ 263
Thanks, but not needed. I don’t let a single drip get even close to missing my mouth.
I’m taking my headache and going to bed. g’nite all. The rest of the Mod Squad will be taking care of the threads for the rest of the evening.
see ya tomorrow, same bat time, same bat channel
Night Suzanne. Hope your headache is gone when you get up tomorrow.
Suzanne @ 271
Sleep well my friend. Hope you feel much better very soon.
Peterr @ 258
LOL !!!
I was the youngest and always the last to get to the dessert … which meant I always had crumbs …
WTF, Suzanne, I have to go back and read this.
Suzanne, feel better tonite and tomorrow!
Your imagination’s probably right.
Way back when, I was in denial, and married this guy when I should have just stayed friends with him. He had an affair with a young lady, and I wasn’t all that angry with him….I had a major crush on the same young lady. After a whole lot of emotional ups and downs, what the three of us worked out was…he and I got a divorce, and the young lady and I stayed together. He’s remarried and happy, I’m as attached as the state of Misery will let me be, and we’re still friendly. Very amicable for all involved.
No – they each have their own computers. They live in separate houses. My sis’ got into his Hotmail account.
She didn’t have the PW, but somehow ‘managed’ to change it to ‘cheater.’ I still think THAT’s funny as hell.
I told her: Stick to this - She must’ve had the password because she was able to change the password.
Actually – there are bigger issues there than emails from some high school girlfriend.
Well, I think I will hit the sack as well. Did a 15 mile hike today and I’m beat. Take care and enjoy the snark.
Shadowstalker @ 277
What a great story!
Night Dr D
Suzanne @ 273
Whoa, mighty early tonite! Bon Nuit, Ma Cheri!!! :-(
Night Dr D :-)
TexB @ 283
Ditto!!!
Petrocelli @ 263
No, thank you. I stopped at Fanci Freeze on the way home from work for a medium twist cone (chocolate/vanilla).
Sack time for me too. G’nite all!
And thanks, Teddy, for a great topic. (But I’ve got to say, there’s only one Joe that goes by Joementum in my book, and that’s Short Ride!)
TexB @ 250
Apple Pie and you’ll have me.
Ok bed time for me as well, night all :-)
Suzanne @ 273
You need something COLD! Root beer float or somethin’
Shadowstalker @ 277
that’s a wonderful story, and not odd at all. just wonderful
Mutant Poodle @ 287
Have you in what sense???
Peterr @ 286
g’nite, Peter!
Maybe we should call Biden Joe2mentum?
TexB @ 293
Drooling uncontrollably. Is that ambiguous?
TexB@282…
Thanks! It’s why I get so angry at the ‘thugs idea of “family values”. I have a life, not a life-style, and the values we’ve tried to impart to our daughter are only repellent to those who dislike honesty, integrity, and forthrightness. I’m sympathetic to the Cheneys on their family life, but absolutely do not understand the hypocrisy surrounding it.
TeddySanFran @ 294
How about JoeMeantWhat?
DrDick @ 269
Exactly. My ex-husband managed this and were very amicable, especially when it came to our daughter. The domestic violence issue I have absolutely no tolerance for that either.
Shadowstalker @ 294
See, I have a lifestyle. It is quiet and sedate and centered on family, work, religion & politics. My son has a completely different lifestyle centered on sports and video games. For some people, sexuality is a much bigger part of their lifestyle, but it certainly doesn’t have to be.
MP – yes!
Dee Loralei @ 290
Nite, Sleepers!!!
Shadowstalker @ 296
I was fortunate that in HS, our next door neighbors were a gay couple, one of whom actually taught me to drive (as my mom would have killed me, or vice-versa). Michael was very funny, smart, and kind, and I never thought about his “lifestyle”, even though I knew he was gay.
This is, of course, why hate will fail – over time, more people meet gay folk and all the preconceptions are shattered.
Especially when a gay 60-foot therapod gets in their face.
TexB @ 250
i’d be right grateful, Ma’am.
TeddySanFran @ 300
Use at will. Licensed for free to the entire lake.
TexB@299…
The reason I say I don’t have a life-style is because there’s no “style” to it. We work, pay bills, argue over the dishes and housework, shop at Wally-world on weekends, and spend a lot of time discussing politics and sociology. I just don’t get where some righties have had their overactive imaginations pondering my sex life. When you have kids and bills and housework, mostly you don’t have a sex life, much less an exotic one.
TeddySanFran @ 300
I’ll second that! Teddy, an excellent GS Song!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YPhq_WTtEn8
CTuttle @ 306
sheepherders! w00t!
TeddySanFran @ 307
My Wife and I were exclaiming; ‘Gorgeous Scenery!’, however, I have my doubts!!! ;-)
Shadowstalker @ 303
Got it!
Myrtle June @ 310
Trying to say something there? NSA stole it!
Hi, everyone!
I’m afraid this is a drive-by, because I haven’t had time yet to go downstairs and read the comments on looseheadprop’s essay on Ted Sorenson’s WONDERFUL “what if” speech! My gawd, vision like his is sorely missed!
I’ll hazard a guess that Sorenson’s style is most reminiscent of Obama’s audacity of hope, and if Obama is smart, he’ll hire Sorenson to help him write his next major speech. But ANYone of the contenders would do well to curry favor with Sorenson.
Sorenson’s prose not only soars; he frames the terms of debate in a way that makes most Democrats look like bumbling fools, and makes most Republicans look like greedy thugs. If there were Sorenson stock to buy right now, I’d buy some. I’ll bet his phone is going to be pretty busy for a while.
Now to go downstairs.
Bob in HI
Avoid server sag: new thread
Late Late Nite is above.
LOLOL NSA… fuckers! :D :D
I’m sorry, but at best Biden is clueless. This is the type of messaging that I want stopped. It was offensive to basic human respect. This is what is sexist and racist about this tailoring the message to a certain group. His ignorace is astounding.
The AIDS issue is one for all people. The condom use and saying “no” is an issue for all men an women, not specific to one community or or other. I winced at his speech. Singling out Obama was just horrifying to me.
I get that Biden really just does not get this. I could play the racist card here. That’s pretty obvious.
Less obvious, to the politicians who are looking for a way to “connect” with individual groups and tailoring their message to each group, is that it is THE cause THE disconnect. That’s the turn off. Just stop it.
Game over, Joe. “F” in basic human respect. Joe Biden needs to go sit down, over on the bench with Hil and Mit, and contemplate Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech played on endless loop in a speaker-walled room. He then needs to experience “Eyes on the Prize” the same way. He needs to feel it. He may then return and speak out about the war and “serve” all the people in this country by speaking out on the war and casting his votes accordingly.
Joe Biden is no longer a Presidential candidate.
I’m changing my name to “Myrtle June: Late Girl”
Myrtle June @ 316
some of us are still here. come on upstairs.
TexB @ 309
Shadowstalker @ 265
What the hell? Tell us the story, please!
Loo Hoo. @ 319
She did. Above, in the 200’s
Door Two. Countries in Africa and especially South Africa are having a hard time getting men to test for AIDS. Obama’s getting tested (with Michelle) in Kenya sets a positive example that will encourage others to get tested too.
Only in the United States, well maybe not “only,” would some weird homophobic spin be put on Obama’s decision to get tested.
Isn’t the most obvious interpretation “Hey, I don’t want anyone to think I was so promiscuous before I got married that I was worried I had AIDS”?
Hahah. What a great post, Teddy!!
Actually, now that I’ve seen the clip, it’s clear to me that Obama was making sure people knew he was not on the down low with any guys and that he was faithful to his wife. These things are inextricably linked and inseparable, especially in much of African American culture, which does not even necessarily see being gay as an identity or orientation, but rather, a kind of behavior one may engage in.
With all that, I don’t have any evidence Obama is homophobic, or very homophobic. Everyone’s a little homophobic, usually, just as everyone is at least a little racist, or has those buttons available to be pushed in the right (wrong) knee jerk circumstances, though they may self correct quickly.
Given how quickly Obama responded, it feels pretty clear to me Obama was making sure people know “I’m not teh gay.” That’s fine. There’s a lot of joking like that among straight men who are not even really homophobic, or at least, aware enough of their latent homophobic reactions to joke about them. It was a little homophobic, and I have no problem with people calling him on it, though it’s not quite like, oh, lying about sustaining a foreign occupation, which may be an issue for some in the primaries.
That’s more or less how I view the interaction, but of all the ways he could have handled it, he chose defensive humor. Defending against what? The perception of infidelity? Yes. The perception of maybe being gay, or of having down low sex with men? Yes. These are the same thing, really.
Pach opens all the doors (except for the horrible and disgusting part) and lets the sunshine in!
AIDS is not about homophobia, it’s about public health.
While I assume Barak is faithful to his wife and she to him, that is not the issue.
Denial is a state of affairs that can’t be denied. If you think your spouse was a virgin when you got married, or that your spouse has never strayed . . . enjoy your denial, but get tested.
Everyone should be tested. . . . no stigma attached.
Barak . . . you dropped the ball here.
Mutant Poodle @ 233
Wordsmith – why do you care?
[Mod Note; edited to remove unnecessary insults toward fellow commenters.]