MyDD :: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go

Bill Clinton says he's ready to go

by pollbuster, Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:19:32 PM EST

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080717/ap_o n_el_pr/obama_bill_clinton

Bill Clinton said today that he's ready and eager to campaign for Barack Obama whenever they feel they need him. If this doesn't signal something to the minds of the Puma's, then I don't know what will. If Bill can put aside the harshness of the primaries, then why can't everyone else? It's time to get down to the business of electing a democratic President.

The former President stated: "I told him that whenever he wanted me to do it, I was ready, and so it's basically on their timetable," Clinton said. He also had indicated: he had a "good talk" with Obama on the phone and is eager to get out on the road for the Illinois senator.

Everyone knows that Bill can be great on the stump, so this is going to help give the Obama campaign more momentum in the coming weeks. It's nice to know you can have a former President on your side and not have to run away from one like John McCain has to do a daily basis.

It looks like everything is falling into place nicely now for Barack. His fund raising continues to be great. He is up in the polls. His former adversaries are on board, and now all we have to do is convince a few die hard holdouts, and we are going to be on our way to a very big victory this November.

Tags: Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, 2008 campaign (all tags)

Permalink :: 105 Comments :: Post a Comment

Good (2.00 / 4)

All hands on deck!

by Reaper0Bot0 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:20:48 PM EST

Re: Good (none / 0)

What do you mean by all hands on deck? The only deck that I and millions of other democrats will be pulling is while playing a game of solitaire on election day. This is one 30 year old who will sit this one out.

by Check077 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:16:07 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Good (2.00 / 1)

Millions of other Democrats?

Let's see your evidence.

Join the Matthew 25 Network and help Democrats win the next generation of evangelicals.

by mistersite on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:21:53 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Good (2.00 / 4)

That's wonderful. You don't have to vote this year, of course.

But if you're staying home then you're not voting for even downticket Democrats. That's also your right.

However, if you aren't going to support the Democratic Party and you are able to support it, however much that is your right, you have no reason to participate here.

Shoo.

by Reaper0Bot0 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:52:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Good (2.00 / 2)

Ya chase them away so they won't be back next cycle....so short sighted.

by dtaylor2 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:12:40 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Good (2.00 / 2)

If these jokers think I will forgive their antics this cycle because they say they'll be there for us next then they're nuts.

I am not going to forget the irrational and bizarre behavior by some who were in our party. I do not consider them brothers and sisters anymore. They've made it plain they don't see me that way. How am I being a bad person for simply reciprocating?

They are free to vote however they like. I respect their rights. That does not mean I will treat them with kid gloves.

by Reaper0Bot0 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:48:08 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Good - Not So Good (none / 0)

...they say they'll be there for us next then they're nuts.

WRONG

They say they may be there next...

And, when you take a closer look at things, not exactly there for us. More like they'll be there for a party that lives up to their precise new formulation of a party that carries the Democratic moniker.

Yeah, I'm gettin' kinda twisty & convoluted here but then again...

A drink whenever Palin makes a Well-argued, Semantically Intact, Logical and Lucid Argument -- or WASILLA for short.

by January 20 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 11:32:49 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Good (none / 0)

There is absolutely no reason to pander to those who won't participate in the election. If these people are so petty and small minded that they would willingly sell out the rest of the country based on their own hurt feelings, they can go to hell. Given the issues we're facing, childish games such as this cannot be tolerated.

by Philoguy on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 09:50:32 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Good (1.00 / 1)

Rave on cat nip--somebody will cover you up!

by Check077 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:45:59 PM EST
[ Parent ]

We'll try to limp along without you (2.00 / 1)

Lol!

by ReillyDiefenbach on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 11:26:36 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: We'll try to limp along without you (2.00 / 2)

Seriously.

Anyway, if it were me (let's assume I lose a large amount of higher brain function) I wouldn't say "play solitaire" - that's lame. I mean, if you're going to that route you may as well go full out and say "yeah, all YOUR hands on deck - mine are going to be on this jar of peanut butter while I watch internet porn in my underwear".

I'm voting for Saxby Chambliss!

by Jess81 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 11:56:40 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: We'll try to limp along without you (none / 0)

I take it that you got the analogy, though! Bravo, it seems that you do possess meta-cognitive thinking skills. Hooray!

by Check077 on Mon Jul 28, 2008 at 10:48:22 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Great news (2.00 / 3)

I've been telling people that Bill needed time. It's his wife, for god's sake! Looks like he's back.

by Lance Bryce on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:21:47 PM EST

Obama needed time too... (2.00 / 3)

to schedule bill! ;0)

yo mir kennen

by RisingTide on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:28:12 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (2.00 / 4)

Get the Big Dog out there! None too soon!

With he and Senator Clinton going at McCain, you have to almost feel sorry for the poor guy.

Almost.

On Nov 4th, we elected "the smart guy" and the world celebrated!

by WashStateBlue on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:22:38 PM EST

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (2.00 / 4)

SHAME ON YOUR JOHN MCCAIN!

I'm looking forward to that, actually. Turn our big guns on the other guys.

by Reaper0Bot0 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:23:44 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (2.00 / 8)

This is beginning to resemble a comic book call to arms by the assorted superheroes. Time to assemble the JLA of the Democratic Party.

by rfahey22 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:26:00 PM EST

Best comment ever (2.00 / 5)

And yes, this is the part where McCain is waving a piece of Flipfloptonite at the Media, trying to sell his narrative, when:

BLAM!
CRASH!

It's Bill and Hill! Wonder Dems Unite!

"Not so fast, McCain!". Cue minions, Karl Rove, etc.

Yes, I am very bored at work

by Neef on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:57:41 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (2.00 / 1)

by dead goat on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 09:01:26 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Bill Clinton Eager to Hit the Trail for Obama (2.00 / 5)

I was just about to post this same story, but saw you beat me to it. Here's my commentary part of my diary that will never be posted:

It's nice to hear Bill making such positive and enthusiastic statements about the Obama campaign. And I'm especially intrigued by Bill saying, "he said he wanted me to campaign with him" (not for him).

Could this be another indication of a possible Obama/Clinton ticket? I don't know. It's certainly an indication that the Obamas and Clintons are working together and talking a bit more than we previously thought. And it seems to be part of a steady stream of articles linking them together which seems like a strategy to ease the American public into this idea.

What I do know for certain is this is good news for the Democratic party. When the Big Dog barks, Democrats pay attention.

by LakersFan on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:33:27 PM EST

Re: Bill Clinton Eager to Hit the Trail for Obama (2.00 / 5)

"It's certainly an indication that the Obamas and Clintons are working together..."

They have to. Both sides need each other.

I always knew Bill would come around.

Keeping him off the campaign trail. Yeah, right.

No one loves campaign more then the Big Dog.

And, I really DO hope both sides seriously consider the joint ticket.

Sure, it has it's issues, but, it sure would be fun to watch Senator Clinton debate the VP Candidate RIGHT AFTER Obama makes McCain look the the absent-minded dodo he seems to be more and more?

Can you imagine Mittens have to debate Hillary?

Jesus, he might call in sick instead of showing up.

On Nov 4th, we elected "the smart guy" and the world celebrated!

by WashStateBlue on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:41:16 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I've run hot and cold (none / 0)

on the idea of H Clinton on the ticket, and frankly think the negatives and positives balance out so don't care one way or the other. If she is I can support it with gusto, if she is not I can completely understand it.

I do not think we can read the tea leaves and make an accurate prediction as to whether or not it is in the works as of now. So I humbly counsel patience until we hear directly from Obama who the Vp will be. It will piss off some, and delight others, whomever it is.

As to B Clinton campaigning with Obama, I think that is so people can visually equate the two together in areas where Clinton does well. Put them on the same stage in AR, WV, KY, MO, TN, FL, LA. Basic psychology, visual and emotional transference.

Richardson in the SW, Edwards in the Mid Atlantic/Appalachia, H. Clinton in the NE and Midwest, B. Clinton Midwest (southern vertical corridor) and Appalachia + FL. Now needs a powerful surrogate/s for the West, NW and Central Plains/Mountains.

I tell ya, it could be a rout

by notedgeways on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 05:46:07 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton Eager to Hit the Trail for Obama (none / 0)

Good catch, that is very interesting indeed.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:04:47 PM EST
[ Parent ]

This is indeed good for the Party. All those (2.00 / 4)

divisive naysayers would have little reason not to vote for the Party Nominee and the down ticket folks. If some still tries to vote for McCain, even after HRC and BC campaigning for Obama, then that person is a Republican. There are no two ways about it..

by louisprandtl on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:40:15 PM EST

Re: This is indeed good for the Party. All those (2.00 / 1)

I completely agree. A unity ticket would expose ALL of the naysayers (both the Clinton-haters and the Obama-haters) as the Republicans they really are.

by LakersFan on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:50:02 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: This is indeed good for the Party. All those (none / 0)

No, if we had a Unity ticket, I'll probably vote,bud!

But of course, you are not saying this more out of spite than unity. Begrudged feelings overcome can overcome one from time to time forcing them to say things that would at first glance appear friendly but only to hid the pure malice behind it. However, I could be misinterpreting you though. You would only know that!!!

by Check077 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:20:14 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: This is indeed good for the Party. All those (2.00 / 1)

Huh? Were you responding to me? Not sure what you may or may not be misinterpreting, but hiding pure malice doen'st sound like me. When I do choose to be malicious, I tend to do it overtly.

by LakersFan on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:36:39 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: This is indeed good for the Party. All those (none / 0)

LakersFan, I regret that I did not read your past post. Sorry! I really don't like Obama...but a joint ticket would help me pull the lever at this point.

I hold no ill will toward you. At least you're not telling people to shoo!

I believe we tell flies only to shoo! The person on this diary using the word, shoo, to other long time voters of the Democratic Party needs to be not only shooed, but flushed!

Again, my angst is over anything you've said. You seem to be a good democrat. I apologize for my remarks. Too bad, I can not say that about Mr. Shoo!

by Check077 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:54:51 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: This is indeed good for the Party. All those (none / 0)

No apology necessary. I was just confused about what was being misunderstood. I'm not terribly thrilled with Obama myself, but I'm a loyal Democrat who will vote for him, and I like his potential to bring a lot of new voters to the polls. If Clinton's on the ticket, I think I could become thrilled.

by LakersFan on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 09:06:46 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: This is indeed good for the Party. All those (2.00 / 4)

That's right. Clinton-haters as well as Obama haters are Republicans, which makes them Bush supporters - regardless of whatever intellectual or philosophical artifice is being proposed as "the reason I don't like "xxx". That's the insurmountable math. Polls just measure people's feelings. Blogs and the media are just venues for people to express their emotions and other ridiculous psychobabble. It may have taken eight years, but doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting a different result - as in voting Republican to improve the economy or effectively protect the country or expand health care or address poverty - is insanity.

by Jeter on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 05:20:04 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: This is indeed good for the Party. All those (2.00 / 1)

The language, tactics and reasoning of Clinton and Obama haters are strangly similar.

My money is on them being, in large part, the same manipulative wingers

by wrb on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:09:06 PM EST
[ Parent ]

He doesn't need any die hards (2.00 / 1)

We should stop wasting time trying to convince these people that they should vote for Obama.

by activatedbybush on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:54:29 PM EST

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (2.00 / 3)

Watch out GOP, Big Daddy is fired and ready to go!! I feel like I do when one of my favorite teams gets a superstar in a trade....I freakin pumped!!!

Toot, thank you for raising such a terrific person...You done good and we will have you in our hearts.

by hootie4170 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 04:59:34 PM EST

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (2.00 / 3)

And you don't ask someone to campaign with you if you're fretting over what might turn up during a vetting process, do you?

by Jeter on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 05:07:10 PM EST

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (2.00 / 3)

I think that "vetting" storyline as a reason not to have Hillary as the VP is a complete fabrication. The Clintons were totally prepared to be vetted if Hillary were the nominee. Are we really supposed to believe they aren't prepared to be vetted by the Obama campaign?

by LakersFan on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 05:15:30 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Yes (none / 0)

Bill Clinton's activities in the last few years...dubious at best.

by ReillyDiefenbach on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 11:30:24 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Yes (2.00 / 1)

There's a comment that should do wonders for unity.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 12:15:50 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (2.00 / 1)

To be truthful, I was worried about the vetting thing, but less and less everyday.

First, if there are issues in Bill's fund raising, it will be best to put them on the table and deal with them. RIGHT AWAY.

Like Rev Wright, timing is everything.

Even then, I think, if the Obama's and the Clinton's have a unified front, my goodness, it's not like McCain isn't sitting on a pile of corruption 10 miles deep?

Phil Gramm anyone?

So, I say, let the chips fall if there are issues the vetting turns up.

It's more then worth it to have Senator Clinton and Bill campaigning full out for the joint ticket.

On Nov 4th, we elected "the smart guy" and the world celebrated!

by WashStateBlue on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 05:22:22 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (2.00 / 1)

well you can. A person campaigning with you, but not on the same ticket does not get the same scrutiny as someone on the ticket or their highly public spouse. I have no idea about the vetting storyline, but cripes this is a story about B. Clinton campaigning for Obama not an indication that H. Clinton will be the VP. Don't read too much into it until we hear definitively, else it is just getting your hopes up over ephermera.

by notedgeways on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 05:50:46 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

bill is a money making machine. Not a huge fan of his at this juncture but I'm sure he'll be very helpful.

I'd be very happy if he raised money exclusively for the house and senate seats.

by alex100 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 05:34:33 PM EST

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

?!??!

Hmm, why do you say that?

Is it that those races desperately need money?

by DemsLandslide2008 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 05:35:54 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I think the idea is that Obama can (2.00 / 1)

raise his own money effectively, as been shown this past month. But, having another powerhouse out there doing it for congressional races would be a big benefit to the party-as-a-whole. I don't think this is what he is going to do, but I do think it would be an excellent way to go, and would go a long ways towards silencing those who feel the Clinton's are mainly out for thierselves. It would be a tacit acceptance of the Obama/Dean 50 State strategy. Which, depending on how this year goes may be one of the best long term strategies the Dems have put forth in quite awhile.

by notedgeways on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 05:55:00 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I think the idea is that Obama can (2.00 / 2)

Brilliant,

See I would assume someone like Bill, with a WELL deserved political ego would want to stand up and say "help me help get this guy elected to continue OUR legacy."

Whether Obama needs the money or not, if I was Bill I would want to make it seem like a torch passing.

Face it, for alot of us see Obama as the new Clinton.
I think for alot of the baby boomers who voted for him back then and are retiring now, it might really seal the deal for a progressive minded independent to see Bill and Obama in lock step.

Agree or not I think what sold Clinton in 92 is what sells Obama in 2008, now I was only like 11 years old back then so my opinion is that of a low info voter, but hey thats who elects presidents these days.

by DemsLandslide2008 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:13:28 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I think the idea is that Obama can (2.00 / 3)

We need to concentrate our fire power on winning the presidency. A big win at the top of the ticket will assure much down ticket success in November. However if we let the top of the ticket slip away, the rest will slip away as well.

In other words we need Bill Clinton out there for Obama, and apparently this is what we are going to get.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:15:28 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I think the idea is that Obama can (2.00 / 1)

i understand what you're saying but money will not be a problem at the top of the ticket.

clinton can expand his resources to down ticket races.

if money makes many more house seats competitive and gives us an extra senate seat on top of what we already expect to win, the party and the nation are better for it. Not to mention that local races can have a trickle up affect.

an extra $5 million will have little effect on Obama's campaign but $500k to 10 house races can have a huge impact on building the party up.

by alex100 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:06:35 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I think the idea is that Obama can (none / 0)

You make a very god point.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:31:53 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I think the idea is that Obama can (none / 0)

It's an interesting point, but that's why you have people like Clinton raising money for the top of the ticket, because they can easily pull in far more than 5 million.

by MeganLocke on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 09:25:40 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Of course at one time this would have been great.. (none / 0)

but now I'm not so sure. I'm glad he's on board but I don't know if I think it's a good idea to have him campaigning. After the way that Bill had hurt Hillary's campaign It seems he lost his touch on the stump.

I'm honestly a bit concerned with Bill's mental health. He's always been a firecracker but I just can't believe some of the things he said during the primary. There seems to be an greater issue with his self-control than he exhibited during his presidency (and no, that's not a Monica Lewinsky dig).

by Tenafly Viper on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:15:42 PM EST

Obama... (2.00 / 2)

Yeah, it's bad thing to have Bill, because he'll only probably garner Obama more votes.

I sometimes wonder if people like you are truly Obama supporters. Look, people, this "LOVE OBAMA FIRST & ONLY" thing is not beneficial in wider spectrum of the party.

by Check077 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:24:02 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama... (none / 0)

I don't even know what you're talking about. I didn't even say anything about Obama in my comment. My comment was thoughtful and based on logic, yours not so much. If you can only respond hysterically, don't bother.

A lot of people were offended by the things Bill Clinton said during the primary. Are you telling me you didn't notice?

by Tenafly Viper on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:56:01 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama... (1.66 / 3)

Tenafly Viper, please keep your poisonous fangs to yourself. I'm talking about your comments about how Bill Clinton should not be used in the general election.

In case you didn't notice, Barry and Michelle Obama pissed off a greater number and a wider variety of people during the primaries, and they still are if you ask me. Yet, the so called democratic sycophants made Obama the nominee. So, that means Obama needs the votes, and Bill Clinton does not. Bill has the gravy and Obama does not. Remember, Bill has already run and served two terms as the 42nd President of the United States. Obama is running, looking to get elected, and possibly serving one or two terms as president. While serving, hopefully, Barry can get the entire party to back him as Bill has achieved on more than one occasion, so he can govern successfully. Thus, the key phrase for the next five months is: "Obama needs Bill," not "Bill needs Obama." As a matter of fact, Obama needs Hill more than Hill needs Obama.

by Check077 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:39:04 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama... (none / 0)

We all need each other.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 12:18:39 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Obama... (none / 0)

We all need a democrat in the White House. And
we all need Clinton either as VP or re-elected to the Senate.

Don't project your pettiness on the Clintons.

It is not because I cannot explain that you won't understand. It is because you won't understand that I cannot explain. - Elie Wiesel

by Sumo Vita on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 12:42:02 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Of course at one time this would have been (2.00 / 1)

Your "concern" is noted.

by LakersFan on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:24:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Look. (2.00 / 4)

His mind is fine.

He personalized the primary fight, and that's why he lost it.

He won't do that speaking for Obama like he did speaking for Hillary.

The guy's still one of the best stump speaker the party has.

Put him in, Coach.

by Bush Bites on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:57:43 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (2.00 / 2)

It's funny how our language can turn on the presence or absence of a comma. For example:

"Put him in Coach."

by Reaper0Bot0 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 07:00:28 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (none / 0)

But I wonder if there won't be lingering bad feelings on his part that might surface while he's stumping for him.

You're right he did personalize the primary as we all did. I know I would have voted for Hillary had she won the nomination but I wouldn't have felt good about it. There wasn't anyway I could have brought myself to volunteer for her. I just can't imagine how intensely difficult and emotional it must be for him to campaign for Obama.

If he's ready to do that, he will be a great asset and I'd love to go hear him speak. If he's not ready he will most certainly be a liability.

by Tenafly Viper on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 07:07:31 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (2.00 / 4)

"But I wonder if there won't be lingering bad feelings on his part that might surface while he's stumping for him. "

Nah, the man is the ultimate pro. He's out there telling those folks who trust him why they need to put a Democrat in the House, in the Senate and in the Whitehouse.

Plus, really, he is mostly going to be reminding them why NOT to be bamboozled by McCain.

Remember the comment about Dole's age in the debate?

They asked Bill if Dole's old age was proble,

Bill's answer: it was how old his ideas were that was a problem.

WHAMO! Dole was done....

On Nov 4th, we elected "the smart guy" and the world celebrated!

by WashStateBlue on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 07:13:44 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (none / 0)

That was a really good line. I've missed that Bill lately.

by Tenafly Viper on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 07:37:44 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (2.00 / 3)

Wow. How did Bill ever win the Presidency twice being such an unprofessional neophyte? You better contact him with all of your sage political advice. I'm sure he's waiting to get your approval before hitting the campaign trail.

by LakersFan on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 07:24:25 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (none / 0)

Guess what? Barrack Obama and Hillary and Bill Clinton are all open to criticism. I'm not here to carry the water for any Democrat, though obviously you are. Your adulation of Bill Clinton and your inability to cope with respectful criticism is a bit excessive.

I assume when you joined this blog a few months ago you didn't expect everyone to always agree with you. But considering your overzealousness and hostility I suspect a bit of sock-puppetry afoot.

by Tenafly Viper on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 07:54:54 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (2.00 / 2)

Yes, I do have adulation for the only living two-term Democratic President and the best President we've had in in my lifetime. I'm not ashamed of admiring Bill Clinton, nor should any Democrat.

And who's the sock puppet?. The person who has written a couple dozen diaries over the last year and always defends the Democratic party? (That would be me.) Or you, who only makes nasty comments about the Clintons and has never posted a diary?

by LakersFan on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:38:08 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (none / 0)

Some of my favorite folks on this blog don't write diaries but contribute with very substantive comments. I don't think you have the right to call anyone a troll since you've been trolling my comment thread with reactionary one-liners.

I have never posted anything nasty about the Clintons or any Democrat and I think it's incredibly shitty of you to accuse someone of that without even glancing at their comment history.

This diary opens up the idea that Bill is an asset for the Obama campaign. That very well may be true but it is open for debate. Saying that Bill was more of a liability than an asset for Hillary has made it into the CW. It begs the question of whether or not he will be an asset for Obama. That is in no way an insult against Bill's presidency or his ability to get himself elected. The only way you could have found an insult in there is if you invented it.

by Tenafly Viper on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 03:44:54 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (2.00 / 1)

What are you talking about? I never called you a troll. You called me a sock puppet with no proof or reason. simply because I admire Bill Clinton.

I never accused you of anything and I have no idea why you are making up lies about my posts. If you think it's "shitty" to accuse someone of something without looking up their comment history, why did you accuse me of being a sock puppet who just joined a couple of months ago without checking out my history of actual diaries (something sock puppets usually lack....just where are your diaries?)

And I don't care if the "conventional wisdom" says that Bill was a liability. As far as I'm concerned, "conventional wisdom" is a euphemism for "right-wing talking point". Real Democrats stand behind the only living two-term Democrat President and know that he's a huge asset on the campaign trail.

by LakersFan on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 02:36:28 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (2.00 / 4)

Bear in mind, Obama has asked him to help in the campaign, so I assume he (Obama) believes it is a good idea. By denouncing it, you are actually questioning Obama's judgement. Yes, you have the freedom of speech to do that, but it also makes me wonder about your professed admiration for Obama.

Furthermore when you point out that you would not have "felt good about voting for Hillary had she won," you are needlessly taking a jab at all those people, here, and in the party that are doing whatever they can to rebuild party unity.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:22:52 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (none / 0)

I think your being a bit too sensitive about the primaries. I'm not a Hillary hater as many folks around here like to call Obama supporters. I knew she would run in 2008 and I had planned on enthusiastically voting for her until Obama became my Senator in Illinois and I decided that he was the better choice this election season. Incidentally his Senatorial campaign was the first time I've ever volunteered for any campaign (although I've always been a political junky) so it really isn't such an issue that I wouldn't have volunteered for her.

You have to remember that since March Hillary wouldn't have won the nomination with a majority of pledged delegates. Myself and many other Obama supporters found that to be illegitimate win and would have voted for her only to get a Democrat in the white house. I would have done it with a heavy heart (due to my candidates loss). It wasn't intentended as an insult. I was just being honest.

And I very much admire Obama, even when I disagree with him. I think any good Democrat should question the judgement of their leaders if they find their judgement to be questionable. That is how a healthy electorate creates a sense of accountability in their politicians and for me it's what being a progressive Democrat is all about.

But I don't want to feel as though I need to preface every critical thought about a Democrat with how great I think they are. I think calling me a troll based on my comment is a really far conclusion to jump to.

by Tenafly Viper on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 04:17:07 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (2.00 / 1)

No one called you a troll. I think you doth protest too much.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 09:24:49 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (none / 0)

Oh and a quick aside, I think Hillary has comported herself beautifully since her loss. I've regained a lot of my previous admiration for her, but I don't think I would have felt the same way if she had won under the conditions I mentioned. And if she had beat Obama with the majority of pledged delegates, I would have been very pleased with her as a candidate.

by Tenafly Viper on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 04:23:10 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (2.00 / 1)

What seems suspicious to people is your continued need to rehash these very tired issues from the primary. Anyone can always stand on the freedom of speech podium for any issue, but bear in mind the continued airings of some issues has a tendency to sow disunity, and will be responded to as such.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 09:30:08 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (none / 0)

But you seem to have intentionally missed my point. I was discussing my own minor grievances with the primary in order to equate it in some small way with Bill Clinton's own feelings of being slighted. So you see it wasn't a pointless rehashing, it was a way to empathize with someone who has a much larger grievance than I could possibly bear with such equanimity.

Plenty of people on here continue to bludgeon others with their negative feelings from the primary. And if I can't respectfully discuss my feelings during the primary without being called a troll, then it's not my issue it's yours.

by Tenafly Viper on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 04:49:18 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (1.00 / 1)

You seem to be fixated and obsessed with the primary. I'm not sure if anything that anyone says could shake you from this fixation. I know you think you have an explanation for it, but, sorry, I'm not buying.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 08:42:24 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Look. (none / 0)

And what do you mean by "continued need"? I think it's terribly rude to accuse someone of that when you know less than nothing about them. I talk about plenty of things on this site and the primary typically isn't one of them.

by Tenafly Viper on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 04:51:45 PM EST
[ Parent ]

We need Bill's ... (none / 0)

... (and his wife's) fundraising prowess. We need him to raise money for the convention.

by Brad G on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:30:45 PM EST

I think it's implicit that... (none / 0)

now all we have to do is convince a few die hard holdouts...

I think it's implicit that die-hard holdouts CANNOT be convinced. Don't waste your time. There are too few of them. Lots of noise, little substance. They thrive only on the attention you give them.

by Dumbo on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:44:30 PM EST

Re: I think it's implicit that... (2.00 / 2)

I totally disagree. The number of diehard holduts keeps dwindling because we are taking the time to build the party unity we need in order to win. Do I think we can win them all over? No, but that doesn't mean you don't try to win back as many as you can. They call it a campaign because it is a time to win as many people to your side as you can.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:28:16 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I think it's implicit that... (none / 0)

If Josey can recognize the war is over...

Fletcher: I think I'll go down to Mexico to try to find him.
Josey Wales: And then?
Fletcher: He's got the first move. I owe him that. I think I'll try to tell him the war is over. What do you say, Mr. Wilson?
Josey Wales: I reckon so. I guess we all died a little in that damn war.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=EHOzxACPGRE (from the 3:30 mark...)

by SKI on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 10:12:24 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

Send him down to Appalachia!

Quick!

by Bush Bites on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 06:54:11 PM EST

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

he's waiting to be asked. What we'll find out is if Barack asks him. That's what will signal something to me. What's the point of unity if Barack doesn't want help?

what a relief

by anna shane on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 07:54:17 PM EST

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (2.00 / 2)

And you actually believe that Obama does not want help generally, or just Bill's in particular?

Impressive.

by Reaper0Bot0 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 07:58:42 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

wanting isn't the same as asking, come before asking. He needs to ask. it's not a big deal, and Bill has already said he'll say yes. When asked.

what a relief

by anna shane on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:31:35 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

Please read the article, you would see that he was asked.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:29:53 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (2.00 / 1)

says asked for help, but what kind, stay away or give me money or speak for me, and when and if Bill speaks for him, it will be at a specific request, speak for me here or there. It takes two. Bill won't refuse bur he'll need to be asked, specifically.

LIke, let's get together isn't the same is I'm having a party Friday night, please come.

what a relief

by anna shane on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:35:08 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

"says asked for help, but what kind, stay away or give me money or speak for me, and when and if Bill speaks for him, it will be at a specific request, speak for me here or there. It takes two. Bill won't refuse bur he'll need to be asked, specifically.

LIke, let's get together isn't the same is I'm having a party Friday night, please come."

What's really scary is I think I understand what you are trying to say.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 09:04:43 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (1.00 / 1)

I don't. Never have.

"This victory alone is not the change we seek -- it is only the chance for us to make that change." -- Nov. 4, 2008

by BobzCat on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 01:15:25 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

I kinda think that when Team-O plans the first major Barack/Bill event there will be a series of calls (between strategists, organizers, and even our two heroes, at some point,) during which Bill will be asked. He'll also very likely be asked for his input & suggestions for the event.

I really don't expect that Barack will simply announce some rally & casually put out word that Bill could turn up - if he's in the neighborhood.

A drink whenever Palin makes a Well-argued, Semantically Intact, Logical and Lucid Argument -- or WASILLA for short.

by January 20 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 11:49:07 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

From http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/

"Whenever he asks -- that is, we had a good talk, and he said he wanted me to campaign with him, and I said I was eager to do so"

It is not because I cannot explain that you won't understand. It is because you won't understand that I cannot explain. - Elie Wiesel

by Sumo Vita on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 12:52:45 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

I don't think you're likely to be privy to specific requests. These things aren't put on conference calls.

What you'll get is Obama saying "I would love to have Bill Clinton's help, because [insert good things about Clinton]" and Clinton saying "I am looking forward to campaigning for Obama because [insert compliment]"

You're not going to have the two of them setting up their schedules through the media. Be serious.

by MeganLocke on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 09:28:51 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

point is that Bill will, and we'll all be privy because if Bills speaks for Barack he will have been asked.

what a relief

by anna shane on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 04:23:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Props, Big Dog. n/t (2.00 / 2)

Even John McCain lusts after teh engels.

by sricki on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:23:59 PM EST

I can feel Hillary as VP (2.00 / 4)

because Bill is not just gonna reward Obama and Co. for trashing him and his legacy in the primary. This world is not something for nothing. Hillary will be VP, I can feel it. But its great Bill will be out there, because whatever I feel about Obama, I just wanna see a Republican lose. Bill can help in Ohio, Florida, Arkansas, and possibly work to put West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee into play. Who knows, we could perhaps win one, as these states have gone Dem in the past, unlike Idaho and Utah. even if Obama wins none of those three, he still makes McCain spend money. Plus, the money he will raise will be huge, because we need to beat back the McCain/RNC machine, as even with Obama's 52 million, he's still behind. The Clinton machine shall open up, as will the White House doors to President Obama and Vice President Hillary Clinton.

by Lakrosse on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:31:47 PM EST

Re: I can feel Hillary as VP (2.00 / 3)

I'm feeling it too. There just seems to be too many things indicating it lately for it all to be just coincidence.

by LakersFan on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:47:03 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I can feel Hillary as VP (2.00 / 2)

I hope so.

Team Obama needs the Clintons

by dtaylor2 on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 08:57:21 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I can feel Hillary as VP (1.00 / 1)

I don't think so. Obama's polling looks good. His fundraising is strong. The party is unifying. Meanwhile, McCain is floundering, the GOP is demoralized, and their organization is lacking.

Obama's in a good position now. While he's taking scrutiny and criticism, he's also getting regular attention as well as positive coverage, putting his message and story out there to the national electorate. What he doesn't need to do now is add someone to the ticket who'll take the attention away from him. With Clinton as VP nominee, all the media talk will be about him, and her, and them, and what they think of each other, and what happened in the primary, and what will Bill do, and so on and so on. It'd be soap opera dramatics between here and Denver and beyond.

His message would be lost in the noise. And the attention that should be on McCain's sorry campaign will be diverted instead to rehashes of primary battles, pointless personality speculation, and narratives of Democratic conflict.

I think it would be a mistake, and I think the Clintons know it, too. She was going for the Oval Office, not the other one, because she knew the former was the only viable route to the White House. They're getting behind Obama now not to set themselves up for the VP position, but because he's the party nominee and the best hope for the country.

"This victory alone is not the change we seek -- it is only the chance for us to make that change." -- Nov. 4, 2008

by BobzCat on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 01:26:59 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (2.00 / 1)

To those, here, that want to see an OC unity ticket, I would like to say this. I,too, would love to see such a ticket, but let's be careful about getting our hearts set on. If it happens, great, but let's not set ourselves up for another big disappointment if it doesn't happen. We have to keep our eye on the ball. Our main objective, now, is to elect Obama president, and to that end we all have to be ready to accept and support whomever he chooses to run for VP.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 09:11:57 PM EST

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (2.00 / 2)

Agreed. Unless he chose a Republican running-mate. That would be a deal-breaker for this Democrat.

by LakersFan on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 09:17:45 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

I understand that completely, and I believe we think alike, even though I'm a Nets fan.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 09:22:33 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

Firing Byron Scott was the dumbest move your team ever made. Don't you think?

by LakersFan on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 09:25:50 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

Jason Kidd and he couldn't get along. They weren't going to fire Jason Kidd; not at that time.

The direct use of force is such a poor solution to any problem, it is generally employed only by small children and large nations. -- David Friedman

by pollbuster on Thu Jul 17, 2008 at 10:24:15 PM EST
[ Parent ]

It's debatable whether Bill.... (none / 0)

...helped or hurt Hillary. Obama's strategists should think long and hard about where he goes and insist that he stay on script.

by Beren on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 02:02:50 AM EST

Re: It's debatable whether Bill.... (none / 0)

Oh I'm fairly sure he helps. At the very least in targeted places and middle-sized towns, he's a huge asset. I think he's worth a good 4-5 points in Ohio and Pennsylvania.

by MeganLocke on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 09:30:26 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: It's debatable whether Bill.... (none / 0)

It depends on what he says. Will he say what he wants or what Obama wants him to?

by Beren on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 10:56:40 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

I miss the Big Dog.

by MeganLocke on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 09:31:10 AM EST

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)

Bill can say whatever he wish, but PUMA is right and we will vote for McCain

Landslide of lies

by engels on Fri Jul 18, 2008 at 08:00:12 PM EST

Re: Bill Clinton says he's ready to go (none / 0)