Obama's Hubris vs. McCain's Maverick Style

Now it's the GOP's turn: The winds of Gustav have given the WH an out for Monday night, which for the GOP is a good thing. Having stolen the Obama-Biden thunder faster than an Alabama defensive lineman with the Palin surprise on Friday, McCain and Company must now prove that "change" can indeed come from somewhere other than the DNC. I think they can and I think Obama's speech on Thursday opened the door. So much for just plain hope, let's go for hubris. It was not his best speech, nor was it on par with MLK's Dream, Lincoln's Gettysburg or the other Messiah's Sermon on the Mount as some of his faithful are spinning. (See William Safire's piece today in the NY Times, entitled "The Audacity of Hype" , buried on page 12). I think McCain's maverick streak has reemerged just in time, and the pick of Palin proves it. She is not what we expected, not what or who a lot of people wanted and yet, she is just what many said he had to have. Maybe, just maybe the Senator and his band of merry men ( and women) are up to this challenge afterall. Stay tuned......

Live from St. Paul - GOP Convention

I'm happy to report that preparations are well under way for this week's GOP convention. While we look forward to a great week here in St. Paul, Senator McCain and Governor Palin are foremost concerned with the safety of Americans in the gulf coast region. I will use this site to update you all if we hear of any changes to the program. As it stands, Governor Mark Sanford is scheduled to speak on Monday evening.

There's a palpable buzz in the air with the choice of Governor Palin as the vice presidential candidate. Through my work for the Republican governors in Washington, I have spoken with Governor Palin on multiple occasions and can vouch for her knowledge and readiness to lead. She also really appeals to social conservatives as well as the more reform-minded, fiscal conservatives. As executive director of the South Carolina chapter of the national Club for Growth, I couldn't be happier with the choice. She'll bring REAL change to Washington.

A few other random thoughts:

Security is extremely tight here, with a huge US Secret Service presence and layer upon layer of steel fences. Supposedly protesters are set to rally tomorrow morning. A few of the people I saw this morning, while walking around, include US Senator Lindsey Graham, FoxNews' Brit Hume, NBC's Andrea Mitchell (little known fact: she's married to former Fed Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan) and CNN's Wolf Blitzer.

Throughout the week I will post updates and photos. Thanks for reading.

New cartoon

Stegelin's latest cartoon in SC Statehouse Report:


Also in this edition:

• Former U.S. Sen. Fritz Hollings on the outsourcing of all things American and the inherent dangers of continuing to do so.

• Editor Bill Davis take a look at how SC environmentalists aren't so strident on nuclear power;

• MY TURN commentator Frank Knapp Jr. says the state needs to provide better leadership for small business; and
  

• Columnist Andy Brack outlines why the South really is in play in presidential politics.

Graham on Palin

From a transcript of U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham speaking Friday about Republican presidential candidate John McCain's pick of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin to be vice president:

CNN's WOLF BLITZER: Is Sarah Palin ready, God forbid, to be commander-in-chief of the United States?

GRAHAM: Yes, I think so. She’s tough, very tough. Look at what she’s done in Alaska. She’s taken on corruption. She’s taken on her own party. She has shaken things up fundamentally in Alaska. She’s been the commander of the Alaska National Guard. She’s got a son in the military. Yes, I very much believe that she would be ready to do anything asked of her, whether it to be commander-in-chief or president of the United States. I have a lot of confidence in her. I’m proud of Senator McCain. I’m proud of my party. This is an historic pick. A pick based on, I think, sound judgment.

BLITZER: You have a lot of foreign policy experience. You’ve traveled all over the world and met with world leaders. Joe Biden has a lot of foreign policy experience. He’s done the same thing. He’s chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee. Does she have any actual foreign policy experience? Has she met with world leaders like you have, like Biden has? Has she really gone around the world and done any of those things?

GRAHAM: You know, I don’t know where she’s traveled to. And I know the people I’ve met. But it’s not meeting people that matters. President Bush met President Putin. And I don’t think it matters just meeting people. You look at people’s judgment. You know, Governor Palin took on Ted Stevens . If she can take him on, she can take on the Russians.

BLITZER: Listen to this bite. I’m going to play it for you right now, and then we’ll discuss. Listen to this.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

SEN. JOHN MCCAIN, R-ARIZ.: I think about whether that person who I select would be most prepared to take my place. And that would be the key criteria.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

BLITZER: All right. So is that person who is most -- the best prepared -- Sarah Palin in this case? Because there were several other candidates, including Mitt Romney and Tom Ridge and Joe Lieberman, Tim Pawlenty , the governor of the state where I am right now. Sarah Palin ?

GRAHAM: Yes, I think so in this regard. John was looking for a reform-minded governor. If he had picked Governor Pawlenty, who has no foreign policy experience, Governor Romney has been a governor, been a good businessman. John was looking for somebody that could come to Washington and enact a reform agenda that would shake up the town. That’s why he picked her. Not for any other reason.

He sees in her a lot of himself when it comes to changing government. And that’s why he picked her, because he wants to tell the American people, there’s two people coming to Washington, John McCain and Governor Palin, and they’re going to turn the town upside down when it comes to spending your money and reforming the way it works. That’s why he picked her.

• Click here to see the full transcript.

Hell hath no fury...

...like Hillary scorned.


I deliberately didn’t read or watch any news today about Palin because I wanted to be able to blog tonight with my two cents on the selection of Gov. Sarah Palin as McCain’s choice for Vice President.

For starters, I was really hoping McCain would pick my guy, Governor Romney , to provide a National Defense/Economy ticket that I thought would also help our chances in Michigan and out West. But it didn’t happen.

Then I began to think of why that didn’t happen and I came up with three items.

1) Huckles . I’m of the opinion that McCain and Governor Huckabee are friends. They seemed to thoroughly enjoy teaming up against Romney during the primary and, even as recent as last week, Huckles was still throwing out jabs against Romney. IF this opinion is correct, how could McCain give Romney a “leg up” for 2012 or 2016 over his friend Governor Huckabee?

2) Soundbites. Much like the criticism the Democrats are facing, having Romney on the ticket would all but assure his words during the primary season would be used against the ticket. Granted, he never said McCain wasn’t ready to lead (like Biden said of Obama) but still there would be soundbites used.

3) Hillary! When Obama dissed Hillary for his selection, the door was left WIDE OPEN for the Republicans to scoop in and pick up some of her disenfranchised voters. Now I’ve been told (by a female) that women won’t vote for the ticket just because a woman is on it. (I’m not buying it but it wouldn’t be the first time I didn’t understand women.) The selection has to, in part, be because of the fact that the Obama DIDN’T pick a woman. Were an option Governor “Sam” Palin, there is no chance that person would have been chosen.

I don’t fault McCain for his selection. In fact, it was a brilliant political move. He’s been running for president for at least 8 years and being this close, he’s got to finish with the prize. The pick does make me think of a few more things before I call it a night.

1) What’s going through Hillary’s mind now? The glass ceiling may break without her. Yes, she had a hand in putting 18,000,000 cracks in it but now, we are a few months away from the possibility of the first woman ever being elected Vice President. Won’t Governor Palin be “the it girl” in 2012 or 2016 for the top spot?

2) In America, anything is possible. Folks, Just 16 years ago Governor Palin’s day was consumed by parking meters, potholes, and playgrounds in the city of Wasilla, Alaska. As recent as 12 years ago she was the “Mayor Bob” of Wasilla and now she’s about to be the proverbial “heartbeat” away from being the leader of the free-world.

3) It’s gonna be an interesting race from now til November. Governor Palin is said to speak her mind and I’m interested in watching her debates with Senator Joe Biden. Also (stating the obvious here) regardless of what ticket wins in November, history will be made. America will either elect our first black President or our first female Vice President.

So, let’s hear it. Any Democrats out there planning on voting for McCain now? Time will tell.

Puzzled by Palin

I am totally puzzled by John McCain's choice of Sarah Palin as his running mate. Nobody is questioning whether Joe Biden has the qualifications required to lead this country if called upon, but it remains to be seen if Sarah Palin does.

I write this from the Atlanta airport as I return from Denver, where the McCain campaign was running ads reaching out to Clinton delegates. The ads featured a disgruntled Clinton supporter winking and saying "vote for McCain, no one will know."

I spoke to several Clinton delegates this morning who were insulted by McCain's choice of running mate.

If this was an attempt to reach out to Clinton supporters, it failed. If McCain thinks he was doing what he must do to shore up his conservative base, then he must in even more trouble than we think.

Hollings points to dangers of outsourcing

SC Statehouse Report today will offer an exclusive special commentary from former U.S. Sen. Fritz Hollings on his views on outsourcing of American jobs and muscle.

An excerpt:

"Today, everyone agrees that the economy is their principal concern. But no one wants to mention the most damaging affect to the economy-- the outsourcing of jobs; the outsourcing of production; the outsourcing of technology; the outsourcing of research; the outsourcing of investments; the outsourcing of the economy.

"We can't get the presidential candidates to pronounce the work "outsourcing." And the free press is worse. David Leonhardt, in a New York Times article, faults Obama for not telling "… an effective story about the economy during the campaign." Nor does Leonhardt. His article, entitled "Obamanomics," discusses every effect to the economy but the outsourcing of the economy.

"Congress has become accustomed to Corporate America taking care of the economy. Henry Ford developed the most important part of the economy, the middle class, by doubling the minimum wage and instituting health care and retirement benefits. And Ford and other business foundations developed the communities. Enforcement of our trade laws was left to hearings before administrative bodies and Congress allowed treble damages to be awarded to a business that succeeded in enforcing our trade laws.

"Congress doesn't regulate outsourcing because the economists and business leadership keep telling us the economy may need a little stimulation but it is fundamentally strong. And now, Congress is fearful of stopping outsourcing because Corporate America that contributes to campaigns constantly admonishes "free trade," "protectionism.""

To view the full commentary, click here.

Headlines, 8/29/08

CONVENTION: Obama speech resonates with Eastover residents
Some residents of Eastover gathered together to watch Barack Obama accept the Democratic Party nomination for President.
Source: The State

• US crosses race barrier
Source: Myrtle Beach Sun News
• People gather around televisions to watch Obama
Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal
• SC Democrats get energized
Source: The State
• Convention souvenirs are big business
Source: The State
• SC Democratic delegates hob nob with celebrities
Source: The State
• SC delegates addressed by Herman
Source: The State
• Obama accepts Democratic nomination
Source: The State / McClatchy Newspapers
• Obama tells Democrats he will fix Washington
Source: The Greenville News
• Democrats gather to see Obama address
Source: The Post & Courier
• Obama's address
Source: The Post & Courier

SC Republicans to air McCain video
South Carolina Republicans are set to release a new advertisement for John McCain that will answer Democratic Party attacks over his answer to a question over the amount of homes that his family owns. Source: The State

SC1: Brown kills Kiawah bill
Henry Brown's bill to get low-cost insurance for Kiawah Island developers has died after constituents were against the measure.
Source: The Post & Courier

SC5: Spratt announces grants
US Rep. John Spratt announced awards of federal grant money to improve firefighting gear and get a better shooting range for law enforcement officers.
Source: Rock Hill Herald

SC6: Clyburn suggests SC switchgrass as fuel substitute
US Rep. Jim Clyburn is suggesting that there is a biofuel future for the abundance of switchgrass in South Carolina. Source: The State

Black Caucus expanding probe of law enforcement
More allegations of mistreatment have caused South Carolina's Legislative Black Caucus to expand their probe of law enforcement in the state. Source: The Greenville News

Information for these partial news briefs provided by SCClips.com. Click link to learn more about subscribing.

With Julia and Bud Ferillo at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial fundraiser

My wife Kirkland and I joined Julia and Bud Ferillo at a fundraiser for the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial (www.rfkmemorial.org). On the way there Bud recounted that Fritz Hollings introduced him to Bobby Kennedy on the Senate floor and his involvement as President of the Young Democrats and being part of a delegation urging Bobby to run for President. Bobby gave Bud one of the now famous PT 109 tie pins which he wore to the event. It was a delight to watch him recount that story to Ethel Kennedy. It was an honor and pleasure to meet Ethel, Robert Jr., and Kerry Kennedy. Hearing each of them speak was inspiring and moving, reminding all in attendance of the importance that America be returned to its rightful place as the example for the world of a country that protects human rights and stands for social justice. The election of Barak Obama and Joe Biden represent the kind of change needed to restore America's moral authority in the world. Leaving I was reminded of one of my favorite Bobby Kennedy's quotes and something we should all remember. Bobby in a 1966 speech to South African Students said, "Each time a man stands up for an ideal or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, those ripples build a current that can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance." We all have a responsibility to secure the future of our democracy and ensure that it continues to stand for the ideals upon which it was founded. I left feeling inspired and my personal commitment renewed to living out in my life and my family's life that standard. James Smith

With Congressman Spratt and Veteran's For Obama

Congressman John Spratt invited me to join him at a Circle of Friends for America Veteran's (www.vetsvision.org) meeting during the Democartic National Convention. It was great to hear from our SC Congressman and budget guru whole told those assembled there of the tremendous improvements made in funding for Veteran's Health benefits. With 1 in 5 returning Veteran's suffering from PTSD or other wounds, it is essential the our Nation make good on its promise to those who have given so much for our freedoms. Many of the needed psychological and medical services for Veteran's are simply not available because of past poor and inadequate funding. Through Congressman Spratt leadership veterans health benefits funding has been increased over 18%, funding that will deliver the needed services to our veterans. Barak Obama and Joe Biden will fullfil that promise as President and Vice-President. They have a solid record of support for veterans with the passage of the new GI Bill and veterans health benefits. James Smith

Doing the Wave

In the stadium, doing the wave awaiting Obama.

Headlines, 8/28/08

SC delegation falls in line with Obama nomination
On Wednesday night US Sen. Hillary Clinton called for US Sen. Barack Obama to receive the Democratic nomination for president by acclamation. The SC delegation at the Democratic convention fell into line.Source: The State

• Childs: DNC has high security.
  Source: Greenwood Index-Journal
• Oconee voters watching Democratic convention.
  Source: Seneca Daily Journal
• Clyburn urges Americans to greatness.
  Source: The State
• Obama holds historic spot as first black nominee.
  Source: The State /AP
• Obama hopes to woo nation with tonight's speech.
  Source: The State / AP
• Clyburn: Obama best suited for nation's security.
  Source: The State
• Spratt, Fowler were set to announce delegates.
  Source: The State
• Patrick tells SC Democrats to work hard for Obama's campaign.
  Source: The State
• Clyburn's prepared remarks to DNC.
  Source: The State / AP
• Clyburn: Obama's diplomacy needed by America
  Source: The State / AP
• Democrats nominate Obama by acclamation.
  Source: The Greenville News / AP

US SENATE: Left controls SC Dems says Conley. US Senate Candidate Bob Conley, a Democrat running against incumbent Lindsey Graham, has accused other Democratic leaders of supporting Graham instead of himself.Source: The State

SC1: Kiawah Island group decides against trip to DC. A Kiawah Island group had decided to nix plans to come to Congress to testify on behalf of developers on the island.Source: The Post & Courier

Information for these partial news briefs provided by SCClips.com. Click link to learn more about subscribing.

Biden delivers mighty speech

Key excerpts from the acceptance speech for the Democratic vice presidential nomination by U.S. Sen. Joe Biden of Delaware:

• On what he learned as a child: "My mother's creed is the American creed: No one is better than you. Everyone is your equal, and everyone is equal to you. My parents taught us to live our faith and to treasure our families. We learned the dignity of work, and we were told that anyone can make it if they just try hard enough. That was America's promise. And for those of us who grew up in middle-class neighborhoods like Scranton and Wilmington, that was the American dream. Ladies and gentlemen, but today, today that American dream feels like it's slowly slipping away. I don't have to tell you that. You feel it every single day in your own lives.

• About the Bush Administration: "Like millions of Americans, they're asking questions as ordinary as they are profound, questions they never, ever thought they'd have to ask themselves. Should Mom move in with us now that Dad's gone? Fifty, sixty, seventy dollars just to fill up the gas tank? How in God's name, with winter coming, how are we going to heat the home? Another year, no raise. Did you hear they may be cutting our health care at the company? Now we owe more money on our home than our home is worth. How in God's name are we going to send the kids to college? How are we going to retire, Joe? You know, folks, that's the America that George Bush has left us. And that's the America we'll continue to get if George -- excuse me, if John McCain is elected president of the United States of America. Freudian slip. Freudian slip."

• On Barack Obama: "I believe the measure of a man is not the road he travels but the choices he makes along that road. And, ladies and gentlemen, Barack Obama could have done anything after he graduated from college. With all his talent and promise, he could have written his own ticket to Wall Street. But what did he choose to do? He chose to go to Chicago, the South Side of Chicago. There, there, in the South Side, he met women and men who had lost their jobs. Their neighborhood was devastated when the local steel plant closed. Their dreams had to be deferred; their self-esteem was gone. And, ladies and gentlemen, he made their lives the work of his life."

• On John McCain: "You know, John McCain is my friend. And I know you hear that phrase used all the time in politics. I mean it. John McCain is my friend. We've traveled the world together. It's a friendship that goes beyond politics. And the personal courage and heroism demonstrated by John still amazes me. But I profoundly disagree with the direction John wants to take this country, from Afghanistan to Iraq, from Amtrak to veterans. You know, John thinks that, during the Bush years, quote, "We've made great economic progress." I think it's been abysmal. And in the Senate, John has voted with President Bush 95 percent. And that is very hard to believe."

• On this election: "The choice in the election is clear. These times require more than a good soldier. They require a wise leader. A leader who can change -- the change that everybody knows we need. Barack Obama's going to deliver that change, because, I want to tell you, Barack Obama will reform our tax code. He will cut taxes for 95 percent of the American people who draw a paycheck. That's the change we need."

• On meeting challenges: "Our greatest presidents, from Abraham Lincoln to Franklin Roosevelt to John Kennedy, they all challenged us to embrace change. Now it is our responsibility to meet that challenge. Millions of Americans have been knocked down. And this is the time as Americans together we get back up, back up together. Our debt to our parents and our grandparents is too great. Our obligation to our children is too sacred. These are extraordinary times; this is an extraordinary election. The American people are ready. I am ready. Barack is ready. This is his time; this is our time; this is America's time."

Clinton backs Obama strongly

Key remarks from former President Bill Clinton's ringing speech tonight of Sen. Barack Obama:

• On sending a message to Republicans: “They actually want us to reward them for the last eight years by giving them four more. Let’s send them a message that will echo from the Rockies all across America: Thanks, but no thanks. In this case, the third time is not the charm."

• On why Obama is ready: "Everything I learned in my eight years as president, and in the work I have done since in America and across the globe, has convinced me that Barack Obama is the man for this job. Now, he has a remarkable ability to inspire people, to raise our hopes and rally us to high purpose. He has the intelligence and curiosity every successful president needs. His policies on the economy, on taxes, on health care, on energy are far superior to the Republican alternatives. He has shown -- he has shown a clear grasp of foreign policy and national security challenges and a firm commitment to rebuild our badly strained military."

• On America's example: "Most important of all, Barack Obama knows that America cannot be strong abroad unless we are first strong at home. People the world over have always been more impressed by the power of our example than by the example of our power."

• On "family values:" "American families by the millions are struggling with soaring health care costs and declining coverage. I will never forget the parents of children with autism and other serious conditions who told me on the campaign trail that they couldn't afford health care and couldn't qualify their children for Medicaid unless they quit work and starved or got a divorce. Are these the family values the Republicans are so proud of? What about the military families pushed to the breaking point by multiple, multiple deployments? What about the assault on science and the defense of torture? What about the war on unions and the unlimited favors for the well-connected? And what about Katrina and cronyism? My fellow Democrats, America can do better than that. And Barack Obama will do better than that."

Time to Choose: the past, or the future?

For all the speeches and pageantry and drama in Denver, it really comes down to this: this election is a choice between the promise of the future and the limits of the past. Are we really satisfied with where we are as a country? Do we accept the partisan, old-school politics we’ve lived with for eight years…or do we create a totally new model for governing that is respectful and collaborative and EFFECTIVE?

Mark Warner’s words last night were very compelling, I thought. When asked what his biggest criticism of President Bush was, he said, “It's not just the policy differences. It's the fact that this president never tapped into our greatest resources - the character and resolve of the American people. He never asked us to step up.”

Warner continued, “Think about it: After September 11, if there was a call from the president to get us off foreign oil, to stop funding the very terrorists who had just attacked us, every American would have said, "How can I do my part?" This administration failed to believe in what we can achieve as a nation, when all of us work together.”

What have we NOT accomplished as a country and as a state because our leaders didn’t aspire to greatness? What progress has been lost because they chose the comfort of the status quo over the challenges required to find a better way?

I’m encouraged by just how many people, especially young people out here in Denver and across South Carolina, who are realizing that they don’t have to play by the old rules – and certainly not the rules of the last eight years! I say, bring it on. One of my favorite quotes keeps ringing in my head: “the best way to predict the future is to invent it.” In November, I think we’ll see Democrats, Independents and Republicans come together to do exactly that – with a vote to invent a better future…with a vote for Barack Obama…and a commitment to put the past in the past.

Headlines, 8/27/08

CONVENTION: Spotlight on Clyburn tonight
US Rep. Jim Clyburn will be delivering a primetime address to the Democratic National Convention in Denver after working several busy days leading up to the convention. Source: The State

• Greenwood delegate moved by Kennedy's appearance
  Source: Greenwood Index Journal
• Clyburn denies feud with Clinton
  Source: The State
• Townsend says Obama can overcome race
  Source: The State
• Rex co-headlines forum on obesity
  Source: The Post and Courier

Graham given primetime slot at convention
U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, one of John McCain's closest confidants in the Senate, has been given a primetime speaking slot at the Republican convention next week in St. Paul.Source: The State

• Graham to address Republicans
  Source: The Post and Courier

Barr to speak to Charleston Rotarians
Libertarian Presidential Candidate Bob Barr will speak to the Rotary Club of Charleston on Sept. 30.Source: SC Election Watch

US SENATE: Clyburn doesn't believe Conley is "in line"
US House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn said in a conference call on Tuesday that Bob Conley, the Democratic party's nominee for Lindsey Graham's Senate seat, is not "in line with the rest of the ticket."Source: The State/AP

Spartanburg LWV celebrates right to vote
The Spartanburg County League of Women Voters celebrated the 88th anniversary of women's voting rights on the day Hillary Clinton addressed the Democratic National Convention.Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

Information for these partial news briefs provided by SCClips.com. Click link to learn more about subscribing.

Unity!

Important, unifying words from Hillary Clinton. This is what Democrats do after debating the issues throughly and selecting the ticket for the fall.

Libertarian Barr to speak Sept. 30 in Charleston

Libertarian Party presidential candidate Bob Barr has confirmed that he will speak Sept. 30 to members of the Rotary Club of Charleston. Barr served as a Republican congressman from Georgia between 1995 and 2003.

“The club is truly honored to have Congressman Barr to speak to share his vision for America,” said Club President Andy Brack. “In this great election season of debate and ideas, we expect he will challenge our members and get them to consider what it means to be an American.”

More than 230 Charleston residents are in the Rotary Club of Charleston, the second largest in the Palmetto State. The Sept. 30 speech will be open to club members, their guests and the media based on space.

NOTE: Barr is scheduled to be on Stephen Colbert's show tonight (Aug. 26) on Comedy Central.

More: WCIV

Headlines, 8/26/08

Democratic Convention opens with Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama delivered the first major address to open this year's Democratic National Convention in Denver Colorado, focusing on the personal side of her husband, Barack Obama. Source: The State / AP

• Pelosi says Dems are not entirely united behind Obama. Source: Rock Hill Herald / AP

• Dems await Hillary speech tonight. Source: WYFF News 4

• South Carolinians on staff took gamble on Obama. Source: The State

• Some Clinton supporters still back her. Source: The State

• SC delegates to witness history at Democratic convention. Source: The State / AP

• Today's schedule posted for DNC. Source: The State

• Clyburn, Spratt get SC Democrats excited about election. Source: The State

• SC delegation to hear from Rex, Kennedy Townsend. Source: The State

• Albright talks of terrorism to SC Dems at breakfast. Source: The State

• SC delegates have to make calls to earn their meals. Source: The State

• Kennedy passes political torch to Obama. Source: Rock Hill Herald

Spartanburg GOP rallying to help McCain
A heavy Democratic turnout is expected on election day in November and members of the Spartanburg GOP are working to help all GOP candidates win their elections. Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

US SENATE: Conley wants debates with Graham
Democratic Senatorial candidate Bob Conley wants to engage incumbent US Sen. Lindsey Graham in a series of debate this fall prior to the November general election.
Source: The State / AP

US HOUSE: Greer to get visit from Inglis opponent
US House candidate Paul Cordon, running against US Rep. Bob Inglis is visiting Greer as part of a nine-city trip through the 4th Congressional District. Source: The Greenville News

• Barrett seeks to expedite drought aid. Source: The Greenville News

GOV: Democrats eye governor's mansion
Several Democrats from around the state are considering making a gubernatorial bid in South Carolina. Source: The State

A trio of state amendments on November's ballot
Three potential amendments to the South Carolina Constitution will be voted on this November and range from state pension plans to the age that teenage girls can engage in sexual intercourse. Source: Greenwood Index-Journal

Information for these partial news briefs provided by SCClips.com. Click link to learn more about subscribing.

Biden is in the Hall

Tremendous level of excitement for Joe Biden inside the hall......a lot of anticipation for Ted Kennedy tribute.

Are we voting FOR or against someone this year?

First, thanks Andy for the invitation to guest blog! For those that haven't visited http://nathansnews.com yet, you'll soon find that I write like I speak: shooting-from-the-hip. So here goes my first entry for SC Election Watch.

If the recent commercials are any indication, the opposition playbook is clear for 2008. Paint McCain as Bush, III and leverage the "mistake" Obama made by not picking Hillary.

Not only did he not choose Hillary, but also he rubbed her nose in it by texting folks at 3:00 a.m. Everyone remembers the "3am commercial", right? You can't tell me the timing was coincidental. Obviously I would never assume I could get inside the head of a liberal but I have to think Obama and his team must so dislike Hillary/Bill that they made a point with the selection and the method. That being said, it tells me Obama is not willing to put aside personal differences/animosity in order to lock up an almost "sure thing" winning ticket by choosing Hillary.

On the other hand (here goes the proverbial jinx), I'm hoping McCain can put aside any "tension" he may have with Governor Mitt Romney and lock this up with a National Security/Economy ticket of McCain/Romney. McCain's showed character before and this would be an excellent chance for him to show Obama how you must separate personal/petty differences and feuds in order for "the cause". (Editor's note: I was a Romney supporter so obviously I'm biased here).

If McCain really wants to play "politics", he could choose a female VP himself and I also think that could leverage some perceived split in the Democrats with the snubbing of Hillary.

Of course, I'm a public servant not a political consultant so I guess I should stick to policy instead of campaigning but for what it's worth (not much) I'm saying Obama might have snatched defeat from the jaws of victory.

Biden? He was for the war, Obama. He also has been in the Senate almost as long as I've been alive. How's that "Change"?

Ok, enough of my "right" viewpoints on this tonight. Time for me to watch some real TV. What's on tonight though? Is there anything worth watching? ;)

Dems provide convention blog

This in earlier today: SC Democrats have a new convention blog to highlight what's happening in Denver.

• MORE: SCDPDashboard.com

From a news release:

The 2008 Democratic National Convention officially kicks off Monday, August 25 in Denver and the SC Democratic Party is making it easy you to join in from home. Our 2008 Convention Dashboard displays news directly from your convention delegates and aggregates news from blogs, national media and photos.

As a South Carolinian, you can stay tuned to all that's happening with your state's delegation by logging in to our Dashboard. Participate in the Yellow Dog Blog, Crack-The-Bell, Twitter comments direct from delegates and special guests from the floor, and see all the news from the convention aggregated in one place.

Or, of course, you can stay tuned for all of the news and views from your own SCElectionWatch.

Headlines, 8/25/08

CONVENTION: SC Dems welcome Biden to the ticket
A large number of South Carolina Democrats, including US House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn, are excited about the prospect of US Sen. Joe Biden as Vice President. Source: The State.

• Clyburn approves of Biden as VP. Source: WCIV

• SC residents working for Obama. Some SC residents have been given positions on Sen. Barack Obama's national campaign. Source: The State

• SC delegates to witness history. Wilbur Lee Jeffcoat, 70, and Lauren Bilton, 18, are SC's oldest and youngest delegates to the Democratic National Convention in Denver. Source: The State/AP

• SC Dems pleased with Biden. Source: Greenville News

• Diverse group of Democrats headed to Denver. Source: Greenville News

• Delegates expect week of drama in Denver. Source: The Post and Courier

• Lowcountry leaders weigh in on Biden. Source: The Post and Courier

• 5 York County officials headed to Denver. York County will be sending 5 delegates to the Democratic National Convention- more than in any election in recent memory. The York County group will be led my US Rep. John Spratt. Source: Rock Hill Herald

• Barrett on Biden. US Rep. Gresham Barrett on Obama's choice of Joe Biden to be his running mate: "Joe Biden brings with him a record of voting in favor of tax increases, strict gun control, abortion rights, and against domestic energy exploration in (the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge), and the opening of a nuclear waste repository - such as Yucca Mountain." Source: Rock Hill Herald

PREZ: McCain, Obama invited to play mini-golf in Myrtle Beach
Presidential Candidates John McCain and Barack Obama have been invited to take a break from the pressures of the campaign trail to compete at the Masters National ProMiniGolf Championships in Myrtle Beach in October. Source: The State

• McCain repaying SC with small favors. John McCain is going to say "thank you" to his SC supporters after they stuck by him in his presidential bid by giving them a number of small perks at the Republican convention in St. Paul. Source: The State

• Winthrop poll shows Southerners trusting McCain. When asked whether they trust John McCain or Barack Obama on a number of issues, Southerners consistently trusted John McCain more than nationwide polls show on a number of issues. Source: The State

US SENATE: Conley reaching out to conservatives
Bob Conley, the Democratic challenger for Lindsey Graham's Senate seat, will be speaking Monday to Americans for Constitutional Government, a fairly conservative organization.Source: The State

Clyburn, Graham issue support for nuclear power
At a leadership conference in Charleston, two of South Carolina's most prominent politicians- Jim Clyburn and Lindsey Graham- offered their support for nuclear power in a joint statement before the beginning of the conference. Source: The Post and Courier

SC sticking with voting machines
While many states are dumping voting machines in favor of paper ballots, SC is sticking with the machines, saying that the state has yet to have any issues with the machines. Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

Flat in Denver, more

I am surprised how flat it feels being a mile high in Denver.

I attended Faith in Action (an interfaith celebration), and was moved by the great gumbo of religions in the room.

Green Frontier Fest made visitors more aware of the energy options available. Did you realize that solar power from your home can be fed to the local power grid and literally make your electric meter run backwards?

The DNC opening night event was a benefit for New Orleans. The music and food were great.

Greetings from Denver

From my vantage point at a sidewalk café in downtown Denver, I am surprised at just how hot it is and just how dry it is. It is almost like having the DNC Convention in Greenville, except for the SWAT teams on the street.

I have already met delegates and elected officials from several states, including Louisiana which is sharing a hotel with South Carolina.

Tonight we will attend a reception honoring US Reps. Clyburn and Spratt, after we attend a Katrina relief fundraiser.

This is the first of many posts from Denver this week, where Obama-Biden and the Democratic party are preparing for victory in 2008.

Yes We Can.

Thursday, just before leaving for Colorado, a TV reporter asked me who I thought Obama would select as a running mate. I answered, “Joe Biden.” Partly based on what I knew that Senator Obama was looking for in a Vice President…but also, I confessed to the reporter with a smile, I said it just as much due to wishful thinking. In all the years I’ve spent around political leaders, I have met few people as special as Senator Joe Biden. Joe is bright, deeply committed to serving our country, and he is a person of great faith. Quite simply, he’s one of the most decent, thoughtful and skilled politicians I’ve ever met. His selection will have McCain’s strategy team playing defense, that’s for sure. Joe is a great debater, is excellent (and tireless!) on the campaign trail, and as I am sure they all know, a formidable adversary who’ll fight for what he knows is right and fair and just.

So I got my wish for Barack’s running mate, and I’m confident that the choice not only elevates our chances of winning in November, but once in office, offers the best combination of leadership skills we could ever want from a President and Vice President.

I started this entry noting that I left South Carolina pretty early to come out here. That’s because my wife Gretchen and I are spending the weekend visiting colleges with our daughter Valerie, who’s a senior at Eastside High School in Greenville. So we started in Fort Collins on Friday, and spent a spectacular day in Boulder on Saturday. Tomorrow, they’ll return to SC, and I’m on to Denver. While I expected this trip to be a special one for our family (and goodness, it has been), I have also been absolutely struck by the fever pitch out here -- way beyond Denver -- for the Convention and these candidates. Cruising through neighborhoods today, I have just never seen so many yard signs in one place. Everyone’s talking about it, and this morning’s VP news took it to a whole new level. This is Obama country! So here’s my call: Joe Erwin projects that Obama will carry Colorado in November. Wait; check that. Joe Erwin projects that Obama-Biden will carry Colorado.

SCGOP's Dawson: Biden only underscores Obama's weaknesses

COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina Republican Party Chairman Katon Dawson today released the following statement on the selection of Joe Biden as Barack Obama’s running mate:

“Barack Obama must have realized he needed a more seasoned candidate to offset his inexperience and questionable judgment on the important issues facing American voters. But Joe Biden only underscores Obama’s weaknesses. Biden has a record of raising taxes on hard-working families, voting to fund abortions with tax dollars and voting in favor of strict gun control. He was one of Obama’s harshest critics during the presidential primary, slamming the junior Illinois senator for cutting funds for our troops and agreeing to meet with the world’s worst tyrants.

“Barack Obama claims to be the ‘change’ candidate, but after four decades in the U.S. Senate his running mate Joe Biden personifies Washington’s failed status quo. And in South Carolina, Biden brings nothing to the ticket.”

What Joe Biden Means For South Carolina

Joe Biden is a great choice for Vice President and the Democrats will compete in South Carolina.

I met Senator Biden during my time on Fritz Hollings' staff; I know many people are aware of their close friendship. Serving as a driver and aide to Joe Biden during many of his visits to South Carolina, we developed a friendship as well. I can say that the Joe Biden in private is the same as the public Joe Biden. He is a man who is devoted to his faith, his family, his friends and is one of the most inspiring people that I have ever met.

His record in the U.S. Senate speaks for itself: he is the authority on foreign affairs in Congress, he has fought for an independent judiciary, he is a crime fighter through his COPS bills, and an advocate for victims of domestic violence(another thing we in SC shamefully lead the nation in). He is also a strong supporter of the military, his son Beau is a National Guardsman and leaves for Iraq next month.

Travelling the state with Joe Biden, I was always amazed at the connection he would have with people and how much he truly enjoyed meeting everyone. A particular memory that I have is the warm reception he received at the Columbia Rotary Club, not exactly a bastion of Democrats.

The late Senator Strom Thurmond asked his good friend Joe Biden to give the eulogy at his funeral. I literally speak to at least one person a week who was there and is a Biden fan because of it.

He is the perfect complement to Barack Obama and he will make a difference to the voters in South Carolina. Because of Joe Biden, the ticket will be much more competitive here and that only helps our other candidates in November.

Off for Denver

I am a Hillary delegate to the DNC and am packing to head to Denver this afternoon. My goals include connecting with progressives on sustainability issues and assuring SC fiscal values are part of any changes to the national Democratic platform.

This morning, we heard the news: Obama/Biden! Sen. Obama has decided there's a benefit to a senior advisor to guide the way for change. We've had Joe visit Charleston many times as a friend of Sen. Hollings, and he's an energetic person. Joe's ready to work on the international front and to take on the tough issues. I look forward to hearing more about the team in Denver, and I will share some thoughts from Denver.

As an aside, I am personally pleased to have a fellow Catholic on the ticket.

Colleen Condon
Chas. County Council

New cartoon

Stegelin's latest cartoon in SC Statehouse Report:


Also in the new issue:

• Editor Bill Davis takes a look at a new report on the State of Black South Carolina and concludes we've still got a long way to go to get to equality.
  
  
• This week's MY TURN commentator is SCETV's Moss Bresnahan, who explains why the state network is providing so much political coverage.
  
  
• Columnist Andy Brack suggests that state lawmakers need a better way to deal with budget shortfalls.

Headlines, 8/22/08

McCain holds big lead in South
According to polling numbers from a new Winthrop/ETV survey, Republican John McCain holds a big lead over Democrat Barack Obama in the Southern states. Source: The State

• McCain leads Obama in South
Source: The Post & Courier / McLatchy Newspapers

• Poll shows McCain Ahead in South
Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

• Go to Winthrop/ETV site of poll results

Riley, Tenenbaum rally voters behind Obama
Former Governor Dick Riley and former Superintendent of Education Inez Tenenbaum had a crowd of 500 Democrats cheering their support for presidential contender Barack Obama at a rally on Thursday. Source: Spartanburg Herald Journal

GOP changing primary calendar, leaving SC date intact
The GOP is considering changing the dates for presidential primaries in the country, but is leaving South Carolina as an early election for the party. Source: The Washington Post

SC2: Wilson announces support of new Jasper port
US Rep. Joe Wilson had given his support to Jasper County's new port project and said that he will give his support from his Washington, DC congressional office. Source: The Beaufort Gazette

• Wilson puts grits on hold
Source: The Beaufort Gazette

SC3: Barrett sees first hand the impact of expensive energy
US Rep. Gresham Barrett got a tour of a Clinton manufacturer whose CEO stressed how much higher energy costs are hurting businesses. Source: The Greenville News

•Wilkins' decision clears path for Barrett
Former SC Speaker David Wilkins' decision not to run for governor has cleared the way for US Rep. Gresham Barrett to be the Upstate's GOP candidate for governor.
Source: The Greenville News

Legislators criticize Sanford's budget tour
Legislative leaders are criticizing Gov. Mark Sanford for taking time to go around the state and say that budget cuts need to be made but is not sitting down and making suggestions of what needs to be cut. Source: The State / AP

• Sanford pushes for specific cuts
Source: The Post & Courier

• Sanford campaigning for cuts
Source: Charleston Regional Business Journal

• Sanford talks about the economy
Source: The Sumter Item

• Sanford criticized State Budget & Control Board
Source: The Sumter Item

• Sanford takes budget message on the road
Source: The Greenville News

OPINION

VP choices soon to earn attention<