Another Rat Leaps from the HMS Republican
EEEEEEEEEeeeee! (splash)
That was Arlen Specter.
Let’s do a count. 57…58…59…and Al Franken will make 60, once Norm Coleman’s last embarrassing display of histrionics is past. The magical number of 60 Democrats in the Senate will mean a filibuster-proof majority, and a lot of those head bags full of ice for the Republicans.
So, Number 59, we learn today, is erstwhile Republican from Pennsylvania, Senator Arlen Specter. Why the flip flop?
“Since my election in 1980, as part of the Reagan Big Tent, the Republican Party has moved far to the right. Last year, more than 200,000 Republicans in Pennsylvania changed their registration to become Democrats. I now find my political philosophy more in line with Democrats than Republicans.”
While each member of the Senate caucuses with his Party, what each of us hopes to accomplish is distinct from his party affiliation. The American people do not care which Party solves the problems confronting our nation. And no Senator, no matter how loyal he is to his Party, should or would put party loyalty above his duty to the state and nation.
Before we pop too many corks, part of Specter’s decision had to do with the fact that he faced a tougher than usual primary challenge from former Rep. Pat Toomey who has the base all in a froth because Specter voted for the stimulus package. The mass exodus from the Republican party in Pennsylvania left only the most right-leaning, and Specter probably didn’t have much of a choice if he wanted to stay in office. It became clear that unless you march lock step with the GOP, you don’t march at all. So we can count him as one of those 200,000 that is fed up with the ineffective policies and extreme right base that has hijacked the party.
And Specter will still vote against the Employee Free Choice Act, unless his shedding of the Republican skin and mingling with Democrats brings him to the light. And if all those new good Democratic vibes are catching, Alaskans will be glad to note that Specter’s corner office in the Hart Senate Building is directly next to that of Lisa Murkowski.
President Obama was informed of Specter’s decision at around 10:25 a.m., according to White House officials, and reached out to the senator minutes later to tell him “you have my full support,” and we are “thrilled to have you.”
Wheeeeee! I love the Northeast. Moderation is the mantra. the right wingers are crashing and burning.
I expect that Sen. Specter will remain pretty much as he has been, a moderate.
We shouldn’t, prob., celebrate too much yet. He said he’s going to run as a D in next year’s election. I’m not sure that means he’s switching parties immediately, though that’s not clear from his statement. Would be great if he did though!
Well, after re-reading it, maybe he is switching now, since he has to gear up for the primary in 13 months. Nevermind me…
The beginning of the end for the GOP….well it’s not the beginning, but you get my drift.
Well, I’m just so danged proud of Little Arlen for making the switch that I’m prepared to overlook the fact that this probably has a lot to do with those 200,000 new Demos in his home state. I say we reward the guy–GO ARLEN, GO ARLEN, GO ARLEN, ARLEN, ARLEN. That’s mother’s brave boy!
Wonder if he needs anybody to have a baby for him? I’d even over look the fact that the guy looks like he robs graves. Now if somebody’d just trip that darn Norm Coleman on his way to the Appeals court. Unsporting, I know, but hey, I cheat at “Duck Hunt” on the Nintendo, too. Hah! Take THAT, Mr. Boner! I have no taste…
Arlen to speak at 2:15 EST. on Capitol Hill. All of the pundits on MSNBC are predicting Coleman will dig in hard now , with the full backing of the Rethugs.
This was a job preservation move by Arlen.
Ripley in CT Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 9:47 AM
Wheeeeee! I love the Northeast. Moderation is the mantra. the right wingers are crashing and burning.
————————————————-
And when we give Lieberman a good bollocking ……..
*sigh*
This makes me want to have cable again. I’d love to sit back, watch Faux News, and eat a big bowl of pop corn tonight.
I’ll just have to catch it on YouTube.
Go Arlen! I don’t care what your reasons are.
*Big Sigh* Coleman is a big baby. Histrionics indeed.
He jumped because he’s not about to give up the Senate seat — it’s job preservation on Specter’s part.
Can’t see him budging on EFCA, but maybe now he’ll feel safe sliding back over to the middle and go back to being an actual moderate on other issues.
He’s on NOW.
As a PA resident who is entranced by all I have learned about Alaska, it is great for my state to get a shout out. For those not familiar with the PA tribe, the key to all of this is the Philly suburbs. We are the fastest growing part of the state. We are also the home of the so called “Rino’s.” We tend to be in favor of smaller, but more effective government that stays out of the bedroom. Are we progressive? Not terribly but we are not right wingers either. We started crossing over to vote for Ed Rendell, a very popular Philly mayor who shares much of our qualities. We were very enthusiastic Obamacins and while we would have voted for Arlen in the primary, we would need to change our registration back to Republican. That is just too much for us to swallow. We have no interest in defending the party of Rush and are happy that Arlen has come to his senses.
I like Specter who always seemed a level-headed man with integrity. I would think his advice and experience will be appreciated in the Democratic caucus and he will be able to provide more of an impact on legislation than with the Republicans.
As far as votes go, time will tell, but at least we are closer to the time when the minority party stops all legislative action with a filibuster for days or weeks just to get their way. That always seemed so childish and idiotic to me.
live on dailykos right now
Specter speaking about it now on MSNBC.
I was so excited to share this news with my parents. There are many happy democrats in PA today. It was pretty exciting for me too as I was the person to actually break the news to my Dad. Wow, what a really thrilling politicky moment for me – the news breaker. I can see why folks choose to be news reporters. There’s a bit of a euphoria when reporting really wonderful news.
As a moderate, Specter has done rather well by Pennsylvania. Job preservation is a valid reason – he takes good care of his constituents IMHO. I like when politicians get beyond ‘party’ to do the right thing. Specter isn’t my perfect politician, but I’ll take him over some other *ahem* ones.
SOS-Save Our Souls!
Is this the beginning of the much anticipated Republican civil war?
While we should be happy to rescue any desperate shipwreck survivor, we should keep in mind that what appears to be a shocked and soaking-wet rat, is in fact another Blue Dog. After all, Specter-a moderate blue stater-has been in trouble with the GOP wingnuts for a while.
Rather than the demise of the two-party system, perhaps we are witnessing the birth a new three-party system-Democrats and Blue dogs, with a southern Republican secessionist party as the disloyal opposition.
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2009/4/28/725385/-Memo-to-GOP:-Seat-Franken-or-well-keep-Specters-committee-seats
Aussie Blue Sky @8
“And when we give Lieberman a good bollocking ……..”
http://www.likelihoodofconfusion.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/mickey-rat.gif
I’m glad for another (D) in the Senate, but…
here’s his take on some destroyed video evidence:
http://www.thedailyshow.com/video/index.jhtml?videoId=156703&title=Torture-Talk—CIA-Tapes
With another bird flying from the cookoo’s nest, and once they seat Franken we may be able to get something done. Senator Spector is tired of using only one two letter word “NO”
BigPete Says:
While we should be happy to rescue any desperate shipwreck survivor, we should keep in mind that what appears to be a shocked and soaking-wet rat, is in fact another Blue Dog.
——————————————————-
And too old to learn new tricks. But he has a lot of experience. And he’s not Lieberman!
Has the refugee camp for remaining republicans (including SP) at the base of Redoubt been finished yet?? They’ll be asking to move in soon…with a VERY small group remaining…..tee…heee…..
aliceinthewater @ 9
HaHa, I am convinced that at least half of Fox’s ratings come from people like you and me who just love to watch their heads explode!
They wriggle and squirm and scream and shout.
The show I am most looking forward to is Billo the day Al Franken gets seated!
As a life long GOP, (and unwilling to do a benedict arlen), I can say that he’s right about the party being dragged into bigot land. that said, I’m sticking around to right the ship. You can have the turncoat. 2010 is coming, and there’s a change in the winds.
FYI, I think Palin is a total loser for our side as well. The quicker she fades into the Alaskan winter, the better for this GOP gal!
@ Priceless #26: I’m sure we all wish you well in your endeavor. I think we all agree that a strong 2-party system is important, and heaven knows the Repubs need people like you to bail out the muck… Best wishes to you!
Spector is my man from PA (I mean, my rep, in my area, our official elected guy). I emailed him when he supported the economic package and told him way to go, he earned 3 Dem votes from our household. After he did that the R party threw his 30 years of experience under the bus for a right wing loonytoon (Shocked? I doubt it.). This man has been around for a long, long time, I think what he is doing, his message, is a HUGE slap in the R face and, hopefully, a wakeup call. Gotta love it. Not bad for an old dude, huh? He’s 79.
As someone who changed their voter registration from Republican (almost 20 years) to Undeclared after the Palin pick, I say YESYESYESYESYES.
I understand that his motivations were personal more than idealogical, however, moderate Republicans cannot dismiss the disturbing truths about the direction that the party has taken over the past 8+years, and pulling a Benedict Arlen is one way to express one’s discontent.
My husband remains a registered Republican, and I have no problem with that. He chooses to do his political agitating with the R on his voting card, he says it makes him happier to pull the lever for a Democrat while registered as a Republican, he likes the message it sends. I respect that position, but was so utterly infuriated by the Palin choice, by her RNC speech, that there was no way in hades that I would have stayed a registered Republican.
I don’t always identify with the Democratic party, but these days even less so with the Republicans. Perhaps Arlen’s choice signals a sea change, perhaps we will begin to see meaningful changes soon.
Hurrah! The brain drain from the GOP heads towards full depletion.
I always had the deepest respect for Arlen Specter. Now I just love the guy
@Winski–AH HA, that’s what they’re planning on using the Drift River Oil Terminal for now!
When I heard about Specter my first thought was to come to The Mudflats because well–Sarah Palin is such a big part of the fracturing of the Republican Party that is happening before our very eyes. I think it’s breaking into three parts so I don’t see how there can be a three-way civil war. We have:
1) The moderate wing, which is dying (Specter; upstate NY seat going to Dems, etc). Meghan McCain is the voice of the moderates now but I’m not sure she’s getting much traction.
2) The mainstream, which is distancing itself from Palin–typified by Gingrich in that Christian magazine last week. He knows that she is unelectable, and it seems to me that the old guard in Washington knows that she’s bat-s crazy, too.
3) The Far Right, who are angry. So angry they don’t even know what they’re angry about. And Palin is their golden girl. The far right doesn’t know who David Frum is, and doesn’t care. The gulf between 2 and 3 is widening by the day, imo.
Having read comments after my last post, I am posting again.
Arlen was one of three R to come out and back Obama while the wingnuts railed socialist rants. That took guts. Now switching parties, even if for votes in the end, took a whole lotta nads after 30 years… and what a gotcha moment for the R party. Hope a few moderates follow suit & slap some sence into the R party, for the sake of “Priceless,” other not nutcake Republican and the country.
Olympia Snowe will be next.
And then maybe Susan Collins…
That would be the bomb, laughing wondering if McCain will jump aboard. Now how funny would THAT be?
Well, I’m not happy.
My daughter has just been laid off. This makes 2 of my 3 children who are unemployed.
I am sick to death of republicans especially whiny ones like Palin.
Tomorrow will be better.
The idiot Limbaugh has already weighed in. What a buffoon.
Not to be too curmudgeonly about our new pal Arlen, but anybody remember his treatment of Anita Hill?
http://www.newsweek.com/id/125611
How does Michael Steele look, after threatening to withhold campaign financing for Spector and the other two Republicans that sided with the Dems?
Might he be blamed for the 60 seat margin? Could get interesting!
From what I hear of the EFCA I hope he does vote against it, along with a majority of Senators.
25 UK Lady Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 11:34 AM
aliceinthewater @ 9
HaHa, I am convinced that at least half of Fox’s ratings come from people like you and me who just love to watch their heads explode!
They wriggle and squirm and scream and shout.
The show I am most looking forward to is Billo the day Al Franken gets seated!
************************************************************
I’m waiting for Hannity to do the waterboard. KO is offering 1k a second to charity. At the end of the link , an expert on torture GUARANTEES that Sean will say anything he wants. I will personally pre-pay for pay-per view. The clowns on Faux are a hoot to watch.http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3036677/#30443351
oops.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3036677/#30443351
39 Donna Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 12:03 PM
The idiot Limbaugh has already weighed in. What a buffoon.
*****************************************************************
Heard that on MSNBC………….He is an idiot.
austintx
Aw!, I am so torn on the Hannity/Olbermann waterboarding challenge. I don’t think the fool will do it, he will cite some medical reason or another to try and save face. The thing is, it kind of trivialises something that is so utterly sickening. The apoligists make me sick to my stomach.
On the other hand, it would be sorta fun to see him pee his pants as they got the tracheotomy kit prepared for an ‘emergency’.
200K former Repubs in PA alone… 200,001 counting Specter. A number of others in my family. All share one view — the Repub party left them, not the other way around. They, like Specter, took a realistic look and bolted.
We need more than one viable party, but the Repubs are just lost. How they expect to win elections based on ideological purity with only 21% of the electorate is beyond my comprehension. But, then, these are the same folks who don’t get it that Colbert is a satirist…. sigh.
This is hilarious, but I was watching Fox News (only for the comedy, mind you) and the commentator stated that Specter was “ousted from the Republican Party today”! My God, the folks on Fox use more spin than Linda Blair.
Get it?… Linda Blair?… chirp, chirp, chirp.
Lynnrockets
Well they do spew out some vile stuff
to aliceinthewater
*sigh*
This makes me want to have cable again. I’d love to sit back, watch Faux News, and eat a big bowl of pop corn tonight.
I’ll just have to catch it on YouTube.
———-
Not to have a bad influence on you, but you can watch Fox News online…
here’s the link
http://www.blinkotv.com/
God I love Al Rogers posts on Daily Kos
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/4/28/725477/-BWHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
lynnrockets – Is this what you meant ??
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qG5V2iBvFs
@ austintx:
Now, that’s what I’m talking about!
OT – don’t know how many realize you can view discussions at the crazy place that requires membership.
Membership seems not to be needed to view the duscussions.
Anyway they’ve determined that the swine flu outbreak is all Obama’s work, just as all of the ethics complainers are being paid by Obama.
Yes indeed according to the kooks he’s responsible in one way or the other (1) he either brought this virus back with him from his trip abroad and unleashed it on us when it served his purpose (OMG my side hurts from laughing) or (
2) the flu outbreak is actually a biological attack that from another country and he’s covering it up. Yes people the whole airplane incident in NY was actually Obama trying to fly in and secretely meet with UN, Russian and Chinese officials to inform them we’ve been attacked by the Mexican Sinaloa Cartel operating in league with al Qaeda cells linked to the American Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) because Obama has made the CIA mad! Oh yeah and it’s true b/c while our Media is reporting it was a photo op gone awry, Russia Military officers are telling the whole world about the secret meeting and who attacked us!
OMG please, please, please tell me that we don’t have to share our country with these mentally deranged people. What hell has happened to these people in their lives to make them not only so hateful but delusional?
For all others fill in the address to that nutty site then a / and add what’s below to the remainder to see the page.
forum/topics/what-if-the-swine-flu-is
From Huff Po;
“Since my election in 1980, as part of the Reagan Big Tent, the Republican Party has moved far to the right. Last year, more than 200,000 Republicans in Pennsylvania changed their registration to become Democrats. I now find my political philosophy more in line with Democrats than Republicans.
Olympia Snowe is close behind! Snow said she would stay with them “for now”, but that “they are unwilling to listen to anyone”. A moderate Republican, Snowe has become widely known for her ability to influence close votes and Senatorial filibusters, making her among the most influential of U.S. Senators. She is considered a centrist Republican in the senate. If I were republican I would be very worried about Senator Snow Senator
Susan Collins is another worry for republicans as her work regarding education and health care are in lock step with Obamas vision for America.
Spector defection a THREAT TO THE ENTIRE COUNTRY??
Now this from scared shirtless Mitch McConnell(Huff Po);
Mitch McConnell, leader of a Republican minority that is now even smaller, suggested Tuesday that Sen. Arlen Specter’s defection endangered not just the party, but the entire country.
“I think the threat to the country presented by this defection really relates to the issue of whether or not in the United States of America our people want the majority to have whatever it wants without restraint, without a check or a balance,” McConnell said Tuesday.
The “people” elected Obama to do a job for them and the republicans have tried to block him every step of the way. The people are fed up and the republicans will see how many more seats they will lose in 2010.
lynnrockets Says:
….Specter was “ousted from the Republican Party today”!
In reality that is true. They are running off anyone who doesn’t toe the line. The amazing thing is, they think that’s a good thing. You have a life-long member of your party and a very long tenured Republican Senator who decides that the GOP no longer has a place for him at the table…..THAT’S A PROBLEM FOLKS. And until the Repubs realize it’s a problem they will continue to sink like a stone. I feel just like Specter – I left the party for Obama and what he stands for…..and I WON’T be back.
AlaskaGuy @ 42
Why is it that you’d like to see EFCA defeated?
I’m with you “Martha.” Having had to put up w/McConnell for way too long in Kentucky (this tunnel-visioned man has perhaps a total of 2 neurons sparking at any given moment), I cringe every time he throws himself into the spotlight. I’ve since left Kentucky, but I assure you not all Kentuckians are like McConnell.
AKM, did you mean in the headine to refer to the HMS (Queen Palin) Republican? or the USS Republican? Either way, it’s sinking.
@ jwa:
I understand your comment, but let’s get this straight. Specter was not ousted by the Republican Party. No one in the Republican leadership had made any substantive move to remove him from the party. The truth is that Specter himself left what is now the irrelevant Republican party. Fox News’ inept attempt to spin this reality into overt action by the Repubs was merely an ineffective attempt to make the Party look as if it was active, rather than a passive victim. Such was not the case. Specter left the party of his own volition and caught the Repubs and Fox News by surprise today.
@ MadcityChick: Did you say that all of the Palin complainers are getting paid by Obama? Hell, I’ve got a claim for a lot of back wages.
BREAKING NEWS:
The Pennsylvania Republican Party has just unveiled its slogan for the 2010 elections. It is, “If you can’t beat em. Join em.”
Anybody remember that old children’s game, “Red rover…red rover… send Coliins and Snowe right over”?
@lynnrockets
@ MadcityChick: Did you say that all of the Palin complainers are getting paid by Obama? Hell, I’ve got a claim for a lot of back wages.
_____________________________________________________________________
That’s what all the folks on the other side believe. He’s paying them to file all of these complaints and blog negatively about The Queen
and paying folks like us that read and comment on them $8-$10 an hour!
I wish I’d be rich just from visiting Mudflats alone!
lynnrockets Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 1:17 PM
@ MadcityChick: Did you say that all of the Palin complainers are getting paid by Obama? Hell, I’ve got a claim for a lot of back wages.
_____________________________________________________________
According to the folks at meaTharaS and pee4cee the bloggers in Alaska are bought and paid for by Obama – he’s paying them to not only blog negatively about The Queen, but he’s also paying them to file those pesky ethical complaints. Folks like you and me and other mudpups are being paid 8-10 bucks an hour just to read the blogs and leave comments.
If wish that were true, from Mudflats alone, I’d be rich! Rich I say!
Wait just a cotton pickin’ minute. Now that I think of it, wasn’t this Specter character just convicted of murdering that actress in his house in 2003? Do we really need this guy in our party?
While I’m sticking around to help bail out the water from the GOP, I can say that once Palin was plucked out of obscurity, I did not switch my party allegence, but did not vote for Mac and Cheesewiz. Being on the far side of either party is not a good thing. I’m a moderate center-right voter. I have some dear friends who are moderate center left. Spector leaving is for one reason only. He can’t win re election as a GOP. We don’t want him. But we also don’t want the extreme in Huckles the clown and Palin the pawpaw maker.
If Spector wins his next election (and one of the perks the Dems promised was not to run anyone against him; a mistake, there should be support for up-and-coming party members) he will have far more influence than before, as he will demand ‘moderate’ changes in liberal bills for his vote. That will be disasterous. At the same time, he will be privy to discussions that he will happily pass on to his GOP collegues… for a large consideration, no doubt. Nobody wins except Spector. This will also block any move against the super-majority vote parameters. Another lose — and it won’t come up again, I’m willing to bet.
When did the Mudflats comments become a CL-like free-for-all, anyway?
@ MadcityChik:
OK, Obama, don’t forget to mail me my sawbuck for this:
IT’S STILL LOCK AND LOAD FOR SHE
(sung to the Billy Joel song “It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me ”)
What’s the matter with the clothes she’s wearing?
I believe they’re made from wolf hide
Maybe she should buy a new pair of glasses
She’s lookin’ just a bit pie-eyed
Just when you think Sarah’s sounding kinda murky,
She gives an interview while someone kills a turkey
Everybody’s talkin’ ‘bout polar bears
Funny, but it’s still lock and load for she
What’s the matter with the plane that she’s flying?
It’s not the one she sold on Ebay
She likes to leave the State of Alaska
With her family every single day
First she gave a speech in Minneapolis
Next she was headed right out to Indianapolis
Next day, Green Bay, then it’s off to LA
It’s still lock and load for she
Oh, it doesn’t matter what they say in the papers
‘Cause it’s always been the same damn scene.
She has to leave the state,
‘Cause the politics of hate dictate a nasty travel routine…
Spending the taxpayers’ green.
How about those ethics violations?
And Sarah Baby’s song and dance
She would really love to jail the complainants
If she only had half a chance.
And then there’s Levi and his TV interviews,
If he isn’t careful, he’ll be sporting cement shoes
Defense funds, end runs, new guns for everyone
It’s still lock and load for she
What’s the matter with the company she’s keepin’?
Don’t she know that they’re out of touch?
Like Sarah, they lack a strong education
Can’t accuse them of knowin’ much
That seems to be OK with the G.O.P.
Who needs college when you have a G.E.D.
It’s the new cool, no school, milky eyes and mouth drool
And Sarah is the big Queen bee
Everybody’s talkin’ bout the new party
Funny, but it’s still the same G.O.P.
I don’t get it. What is a “CL – like free for all”?
Diane, my husband has been laid off since late January. No job in sight. Neither party is serving my family well. Neither really gives a lick. They just care about getting themselves re-upped for another 2 or 6 years. Did I mention we have 7 kids ages 14-4? Yea, that’s comforting to know I have to work harder to make ends meet, because the econ is taking too many hits.
lynnrockets…Luv the songs…LOL
)
Closet Mudpup #58 – I’m all for Free Choice – not being given the opportunity to vote in a secret ballot removes both the freedom and the choice. Alaska is not a right-to-work state, further removing the free choice. If all states were right-to-work then I would support EFCA.
@Priceless,
I understand.
OK, please don’t interrupt. I’m on a bit of a roll…
HEY SARAH, SARAH
(sung to the Doris Day song “Que Sera Sera”)
When she was just a little girl
She asked Ted Stevens, “What will I be?”
“Will I be Guv’nor?” “Will I be Prez?”
Here’s what he said to she.
Hey, Sarah, Sarah
Don’t be so silly, silly
Stop annoying me, dear me
Hey Sarah, Sarah
What will be, will be
When she was Gov she met McCain
She asked the Maverick, what lies ahead?
“How is your cancer?” “How old are you?”
I’ll be Prez when you’re dead.
Hey, Sarah, Sarah
Let’s not jump the gun, the gun
You know that we’ve not yet won
Hey, Sarah, Sarah
You’re no fun, no fun
Her campaign went down to defeat
Now she’s the G.O.P.’s biggest doormat
Well behind Romney, behind Gingrich
She shills for “Arctic Cat”
Hey, Sarah , Sarah
You’re so damned creepy, creepy
Your career’s finished, you see
Hey, Sarah, Sarah
It’s your destiny
Hey Fox News! Go check the washing machine. I think it’s stuck on the spin cycle.
I loved Palin when she was a member of Monty Python.
Sandra Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 1:06 PM
I’m with you “Martha.” Having had to put up w/McConnell for way too long in Kentucky (this tunnel-visioned man has perhaps a total of 2 neurons sparking at any given moment), I cringe every time he throws himself into the spotlight. I’ve since left Kentucky, but I assure you not all Kentuckians are like McConnell.
================================
Just like all Alaskans are not like Ted Stevens,and all Americans were not like G W Bush!
Thank God!!
lynnrockets – Phil Spector (was he convicted, I don’t remember) v. Arlen Specter
(not even accused of murder, but just wait for it from RedState).
the problem child IS MY NAME!@60
AKM, did you mean in the headine to refer to the HMS (Queen Palin) Republican? or the USS Republican? Either way, it’s sinking.
*************
Think of the GOP as “The fighting Temeraire”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Turner,_J._M._W._-_The_Fighting_Téméraire_tugged_to_her_last_Berth_to_be_broken.jpg
Priceless Says
Irishgirl Says:
@Priceless,
I understand.
……………………………….
Same here , Ive been permanently laid off since June last year .
Its going to take time for PO to fix this mess.
60 the problem child IS MY NAME! Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 1:13 PM
AKM, did you mean in the headine to refer to the HMS (Queen Palin) Republican? or the USS Republican? Either way, it’s sinking.
********************************************************************
sarah is sailing the “S.S. Delusion” , on the ocean of illusion……….
lynnrockets
I would like to know what CL means too! Centre left? Closet Liberal? Closet Lesbian?
I’m curious.
Alaska Guy
The employees losing their right to a secret ballot is bad information that was spread by business groups (and lots of Republicans) opposing the bill. The advantage I see for workers is that EFCA sets a timetable for events that prevents business from using the stalling tactics that so often keeps the process from moving forward after a vote has been called for by labor. (There is even a specialized consulting industry to help Biz carry out the stall.) The other big change is that if biz and labor can’t come to terms within a set time after a vote to unionize, negotiations can be referred to arbitration, ending another major stalling tactic.
That’s my take. I was curious because I haven’t talked to anyone who was opposed to it.
@ UK Lady:
I was hoping it meant “Celtics Lover” inasmuch as I’m from Boston. But, I hope it doesn’t mean something about Craigslist.
Sebelius confirmed 65 – 31, eat that! maet haras!!
lynnrockets – Speaking of Monty Python and sarah , here is John Cleese. His laughter at the beginning when the name Palin is spoken says it all………
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jMyNk8J1c8g
YAY – SEBELIUS CONFIRMED … WOOHOO
Comical laughtermongers?
I’LL NEVER BE THE GUV AGAIN
(sung to the Dionne Warwick song “I’ll Never Fall In Love Again ”)
What do you get when you are the Guv?
Ethics complaints that get you in trouble
Legal fees that will burst your bubble
I’ll never be the Guv again
I’ll never be the Guv again
What do you get when you cross Levi?
T.V. stints where he verbally bones ya
He lawyer’s-up, and then he owns ya
I’ll never cross Levi again
Dontcha know that I’ll never cross Levi again
Don’t tell me what it’s all about
‘Cause my big smile has become a pout
I feel I’m in chains, those chains that bind you
I blow like the wind. Need I remind you?
What do you get with a defense fund?
Access to dough that you can borrow
It should last well beyond tomorrow
I’ll never spend my own a-gain
No, no. I’ll never spend my own again
(Musical Interlude)
Ahh, I feel I’m in chains, those chains that bind you
I blow like the wind. Need I remind you?
What do you get with a defense fund?
Access to dough that you can borrow
It should last well beyond tomorrow
I’ll never spend my own a-gain
Dontcha know that. I’ll never spend my own a-gain
I’ll never spend my own again
Woot! Gov. Kathleen Sebelius was just confirmed, Team Sarah failed AGAIN!
86 UK Lady Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 2:03 PM
Sebelius confirmed 65 – 31, eat that! maet haras!!
***********************************************************
Yup Yup !! You beat me to it !! Faux is gonna be spewing the vile tripe tonite !!
@ austintx; Touche. Well, I’m off to be questioned by the Spanish Inquisition.
OT – Breaking:
Sebelius has been confirmed as HHS Secretary. Take that, haras meat!
@ UK Lady:
Oh, no. I hope it doesn’t mean, “clueless lynnrockets”
@ UK Lady:
I had a friend you know? Her name was Connie Lingus!!!
Could she speak in many tongues? :wicked:
Great news on Sebelius!! Too bad for “team hate.”
And yeah for Specter!! The republican comments from some have been arrogant and horrible!!! I do hope Snowe and Collins come along because the GOP seems to only want one kind of person now.
You guys must visit “the Sarah Palin blog.” they have a new survey saying Sarah has a good chance in 2012. the blog owner seems more level headed then some and at least allows dissenters to post. What is sad (for them) is that some of the governors supporters don’t realize how out in far right field they sound! Read some of the comments.
lynnrockets, how do you come up with all these song parodies so quickly?? You rock!!
(and so does my senator – go Arlen!!)
Looks like Minnesotans (sp) are getting pretty fed up with Coleman and want him to stop. Though I think the RNC is gonna throw everything they have at Franken now.
Hey , look what those right wing nuts in Florida just approved for your car. Be warned that wonkette uses salty language. Especially comments. It is wild.
http://wonkette.com/408144/florida-reveals-tasteful-new-license-plate
Also I posted the other day about the “sovereignty legislation” in Alaska soon to come to the governors desk. I don’t think anyone responded. There is now an article in the Huffingtin Post about this. Go to the Big News Palin page. I am hoping AKM or someone else could enlighten us as to what this means.
I think Specter leaving shows how split the GOP is. I think there is a civil war going on in the GOP and in this country! I dont remember us ever being this divided!!? And what does state sovereignty lead to??? It is crazy stuff.
Be perpared for Faux News et al to absolutely vilify Arlen. It’s gonna be ugly.
Briefly caught a portion of Hannity last night. He gets my Ass Hat of the year award. He went on (for the few minutes I could bare to watch) about Obama and the teleprompter. Enough already! I know where I’d like to stick that teleprompter, but his head already occupies the area.
Welcome to the real world, Senator Specter!
lynnrockets, you’re not just on a roll, you’re on a rock-n-roll today!
So, Team Sarah rallied the troops against Sibelius and used all their political muscle – followed by a resounding call for defeat by Mighty Michael Steele today….and….
Sibelius 65-31.
Oops.
lynnrockets & UK Lady
We have a uroligist here in town named Richard Chopp. You know the short name for Richard. He goes by Dick Chopp. google if you don’t believe it. I have met him.
austintx
You’d need to be a brave man to go to a urologist with that name
An interesting ‘wake up!’ post, with clean logic (guess SP won’t be reading ‘em!!!) from HP is up…
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/michael-rowe/good-morning-gop-this-is_b_192373.html
Good Morning, GOP. This Is Your Wake-Up Call.
“The news this morning that Pennsylvania Senator Arlen Specter [R] has announced that he’s switching parties should be a wake-up call for a Republican Party that has moved so far to the right that it is in danger of alienating the increasing majority of moderate Americans, especially those in the northeast where the Republican Party appears to be slipping into obsolescence. The GOP has long prided itself on tarring the Democrats with “being out of touch with mainstream American values.”
Today, that tag seems more applicable to them than it does to the Democratic Party. ”
*snip to ending*
“If the GOP has any real desire to survive as a significant political influence in America, it would do well to rethink its allegiances to the Religious Right and the rabid social conservatives who decided, eight years ago, that America was their personal feeding ground. It would do well to listen to moderate Republicans who remain steadfastly loyal to their party, like Olympia Snowe of Maine, who have admitted that moderate voices in the Republican Party are regularly drowned out and dismissed.
It would do well to take a long hard look at not only itself, but what America sees when it think of “the Right,” and ask itself why so many people are backing away from it—slowly, carefully, as from a rabid dog you don’t want to provoke into an attack.”
Read full post on HP…
101 SouthPaw Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 2:26 PM
Be perpared for Faux News et al to absolutely vilify Arlen. It’s gonna be ugly.
Briefly caught a portion of Hannity last night. He gets my Ass Hat of the year award. He went on (for the few minutes I could bare to watch) about Obama and the teleprompter. Enough already! I know where I’d like to stick that teleprompter, but his head already occupies the area.
***************************************************************
Got 2 words for Sean – Waterboard and When.
@ Susan in PA:
That’s “Darlin’ Specter”
BIG SHOT
(sung to the Billy Joel song “Big Shot”)
Well, you went off campaigning with ol’ John McCain
With your new G.O.P. purchased clothes
You had that beehive hairstyle on your head
And high heels for your toes
Ooh,, and when you woke up in the mornin’
With your bub-ble burst
And tears pouring out of your eyes
We know “Thanks But No Thanks” was just
Another one of your lies
Because you had to be a big shot, didn’t cha
You had to open up your mouth
You had to be a big shot, didn’t cha
Now your smile’s become a pout
You talked a lot of Reverend Wright
But all you did was scream and shout
You showed us that you’re way too uptight
You tried to be a big shot that night (Ooh oh)
And no one was impressed with your wolf hide dress
Just because you shot the wolves from a plane
And nobody could have really cared less
That you can see the Ukraine
But now you just don’t remember
The dumb things you said
And I’m damn sure you don’t want to know
I’ll give you one hint, Barbie
I think you got plumbed by Joe!
Yes, yes, you had to be a big shot, didn’t cha
You had the SarahPac girls wowed
Your nose was running pig-snot, oh ya
Hockey mom without a doubt
Your interviews were such a sad sight
Your so much fun to be around
You had to have the front page, bold type
Upstaging McCain most every night, (Ooh oh)
Oh Oh whoa whoa oh, Oh Oh whoa who-oo-oo-oo-ah,
Oh Oh Oh whoa whoa oh, Oh Oh whoa.
Well, it’s no big sin to stick your two cents in
If you’re talking to someone that’s grown
But your attacking Levi
Because he was on the Tyra Banks Show
No, no, no, no, no, no
You had to be a big shot, didn’t cha
You had to badmouth that young boy
You had to be a big shot, didn’t cha
Just because you were annoyed
You had to have the last word, that’s right
You know what everything’s about
But still we know that Levi spent nights
Sleeping at your house within your sight, Oh oh
Oh Oh whoa whoa oh, Oh Oh whoa
Big shot…Big shot… Big shot…Mmmm…Big shot…Whoa whoa
Big shot…
@ Closet Mudpup – Doing some more research ….
Press release from Sarah Palin on the stimulus.
She is mostly accepting the funds, but made crystal clear that in some cases the stimulus funds will be used to replace state spending so the state can increase its savings.
In other words, in outright defiance of the both the spirit and the letter of the stimulus program.
http://www.gov.state.ak.us/news.php?id=1792
How cool is that–when one’s job preservation in the Senate–depends upon one being a Democrat. Pennsylvania, you rock! You voters are leading the way. Way cool. Way cool. Yours truly–just another comical laughmonger.
In a short while all that will be remaining in the Repugvacant party will be Larry, Darryl and his other brother Darryl
Them’, over there’, are not happy bunnies, they’ are spinning like tops to validate SP’s acceptance of the stimulus.
Sebelius has just been confirmed, 65-31.
Take that, Palinbots!
UK Lady,
Without even looking, I have visions of Linda Blaire of The Exorcist fame!!!
More rats will jump from the sinking GOP ship very soon.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/04/28/outrage-documentary-activ_n_192476.html
Imagine an anti-abortion protester getting outed for owning an abortion clinic.
Very similar circumstances these.
I live in PA. I have been very happy with Senator Specter for years, but couldn’t work for him. This is very good news for alot of PA folk.
Sorry if this has been posted.
Only 21% identify themselves as Repub. Dang.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/04/28/borger.gop/index.html
A lot of people don’t know this, but before he changed his name to Arlen (after murdering some actress at his house), his name was Phil and he founded and produced many Girl Bands of the 1960′s like the Ronettes and others. Here is a little tribute to that time of his life…
DA DOO LEN LEN
(sung to the Phil Spector/Ronettes song “Da Doo Ron Ron”)
I met him on a Tuesday and my heart stood still
Da Doo Len Len Len Da Doo Len Len
The Dems will love his vote up on the Hill
Da Doo Len Len Len Da Doo Len Len
Yes, my heart stood still
What? His name’s not Phil?
A new (D) beneath the Dome
Da Doo Len Len Len Da Doo Len Len
I never cared for Arlen, but now he’s my guy
Da Doo Len Len Len Da Doo Len Len
Republicans are crying, my oh my
Da Doo Len Len Len Da Doo Len Len
Yes, now he’s my guy
Let’s watch Steele cry
A new (D) beneath the Dome
Da Doo Len Len Len Da Doo Len Len
Da Doo Len Len Len Da Doo Len Len
Da Doo Len Len Len Da Doo Len Len
Let’s hope Collins and Snowe will be next in line
Da Doo Len Len Len Da Doo Len Len
Somebody throw the G.O.P. a line
Da Doo Len Len Len Da Doo Len Len
Things, they look so fine
Break out the beer and wine!
A new (D) beneath the Dome
Da Doo Len Len Len Da Doo Len Len
Da Doo Len Len Len Da Doo Len Len
Da Doo Len Len Len Da Doo Len Len
(repeat and fade out)
What are the “over there” nutjobs saying about their massive effort that resulted in the defeat of the Sebelius nomination?
Ooooops…
How is it that this woman has a voice in our government? What an obscene idiot.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/04/28/michele-bachmann-links-sw_n_192493.html
Can’t see the conversation on that site Basheert (although I would love to right now as I am very fond of a glass of schadenfreude), was talking about the other, very similar nutjobs.
Big Slick – I’m not a big fan of outing anyone who wants to stay in the closet, but in the case of anyone who actively campaigned against gay rights, I will make an exception.
Sorry, meant to add this link, especially for crystalwolf and wildlife avenger, a step in the right direction for endangered species
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30460036/
Epic fail for maet haras, Brownback voted FOR Sebelius!
Canadian Neighbour Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 3:04 PM
UK Lady,
Without even looking, I have visions of Linda Blaire of The Exorcist fame!!!
*************************************************************************88
Go ahead and look………
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qG5V2iBvFs
austintx
I’ve been trying to forget that film for years, now I will be having nightmares again, only this time SP’s head will be in them – Aaaaaarrrrgghhhhhh!
UK Lady: What an absolute de-licious confirmation. In spite of their massive “call Brownback Campaign”, he voted YES. Since they managed to get 40 people to make calls, it was a real victory for the MEAT HARRASSERS … GO MH’s!
But WAIT … just what % is 40 out of their supposed 70,000 members???
What an awesome show of support for SP!
@Closet Mudpup – On reflection it is my opinion that this should be renamed the Union Free Choice Act. Through all that I have read the false assumption that is continually made is that Unions and Workers are synonymous. This isn’t necessarily true. Much is made of unions being the champions of the workforce, while glossing over any self interests they might have.
As for the secret ballot issue, to me this is a case of semantics, but I’d rather be able to voice my opinion in a no vote, than not to be heard at all. I don’t trust the validation of card checks by the NLRB to adequately protect against coercive practices on behalf of the Union.
68 oregonbird Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 1:30 PM
“If Spector wins his next election….he will have far more influence than before, as he will demand ‘moderate’ changes……At the same time, he will be privy to discussions that he will happily pass on to his GOP collegues… for a large consideration, no doubt. Nobody wins except Specter.”
—————————–
How do you know that he will be “demanding” anything or “happily” passing on anything?
-Maybe he will be asking for concessions……Or providing the moderate perspective….
-Maybe he will be pragmatically passing on info……Or openly but ethically sharing info….
Further, why would you declare that “Nobody wins except Specter?”…..(Absolutes in statements are generally not accurate in my experience unless you’re dealing with mathematics.)
Sen. Specter may or may not ultimately be an asset to the Democratic party itself but his option to choose his party affiliation as given by the constitution is what makes our government flexible as well as strong…….and both are very important to meet the changes that occur in every society over time.
I bleed Democrat.
I lived in PA for 50 of my 60 years, and I voted for Arlen Specter. I did not always agree with him, but recognized him as a man of conviction and integrity.
As a PA “transplant” to NC, I applaud Arlen Specter, I welcome him to a Party that allows him to vote his conscious, have told him so, and while I cannot predict his future votes, I know he will think them out and they will not be dictated.
200,000 Pennsylvanians switched their registrations from Republican tho Democrat… I know of a few I influenced and am happy for that.
Proof positive that moderates no longer have a place in the GOP. Arlen Specter just did what thousands upon thousands of other republicans did recently: became a Democrat.
CassieJPPalin: I totally understand why he changed parties. M Steele is currently claiming he “got rid” of Specter – and hasn’t had Steele enjoyed the last 100 days?
The fact that his constituents are switching parties to get away from the Republic Party would make any Senator look at who and what they represent. He is one of the few politicians who recognize that he is supposed to be representing HIS constituents.
It isn’t easy doing what he did but for whatever reason, I’m glad he has chosen what works for him.
Isn’t that what politics is all about.
Re: Sebelius …. so apparently the “Not On our Watch!” folks, eh ….. not so good on the watchdog front. Bwaaahhh.
Can’t wait to see what other great political stand the haraSmaeT folks take. Let’s see – how about opposing spending money on the potential flu pandemic?
I’ve not always agreed with Spector’s votes BUT of this I feel very sure: the man frickin’ reeks with integrity. We all know that he was facing a primary challenge from an uberconservative Rethug. . .and with the likes of Gingrich, Limbaugh, Beck, & Hannity as the Four Horsemen, Spector would have had a very small pool of Rethug voters who would be swayed his way. Not only is this good for the Dems, but good for Spector too – it’s politics but it’s politics I can understand. . .
Specter’s announcement absolutely floored many of us here in pennsyltucky. He just handed the GOP primary to wacko Toomey. But then, the Democratic candidate isn’t exactly… dunno how to describe that guy except that he lacks energy, etc.
So when is Hannity being waterboarded for Charity?
btw – Steele had absolutely nothing to do with Specter’s decision. He’s a liar of the worst degree if that’s his claim. Steele is uninspiring to begin with… let’s hope he doesn’t become a liar as well.
A sign of the times…my 87-year-old mother, a die-hard Republican ALL of her life, voted for Obama in November (I’ll confess I helped that process along a little!).
It seems like more and more of the reasonable, intelligent, thoughtful, open-minded people in the Republican party (yes, they do exist!) are feeling increasingly disconnected, and ultimately abandoning ship. While this is not a good way to preserve our system of checks and balances, it IS a promising sign that the rightwing nutjobs will have less and less power and influence…and that is a VERY good thing!
I know, it’s great news. He’s felt pretty much pinched out of his party from the right fringe and its leadership.
Lee, I’m going to go out on a limb, and guess you’re a guy. It’s usually men, rather than women, who object to the fact that any woman would dare express herself in an active voice, rather than apologetically.
I presented what I think is the most likely scenario, and did in fact intend to set a contentious tone. I leave the soft-serve, mealy-mouthed interpretations to people who prefer their world slightly out of focus. Not to mention, the word “ethically” has never crossed my mind when thinking of Arlen Specter.
I’ll give you a point on the “Nobody wins…” statement. Because having an active mole, and a democratic vote that can only be earned by gutting important legislation, and the loss of impetus to return to simple majority vote — the Republicans win big time. Specter is no loss to them, but what his entry into the Democratic caucus will achieve is priceless.
Your objection to my post seems to be that its syntax and tone doesn’t appeal to you. Surely you have better arguments.
“If Specter wins his next election….he will have far more influence than before, as he will demand ‘moderate’ changes……At the same time, he will be privy to discussions that he will happily pass on to his GOP collegues… for a large consideration, no doubt. Nobody wins except Specter.”
—————————–
How do you know that he will be “demanding” anything or “happily” passing on anything?
-Maybe he will be asking for concessions……Or providing the moderate perspective….
-Maybe he will be pragmatically passing on info……Or openly but ethically sharing info….
Further, why would you declare that “Nobody wins except Specter?”…..(Absolutes in statements are generally not accurate in my experience unless you’re dealing with mathematics.)
There are two other moderates. There is no telling when their conscience will dictate they vote against the GOP party line. So even though it’s 60-40 once Franken is seated, it could still be 62-38 at some time in the future. Considering Spector and Lieberman, it’s could also be 58-42. Although Lieberman better watch it; he has a target on his back if he should cross the Democratic caucus.
I wonder who else might be considering going at least Independent. It’s become a downright embarassment to be Republican.
Sorry if this has been posted, but on Rachel Maddow tonight, Lincoln Chaffee talks about the problems with the Club for Growth, their tactics, and how they “saddled John McCain with Sarah Palin”… and goes on to talk about how unqualified she was… hehe.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26315908/#30465020
OK speaking as someone who watched McInsane pander to any god that was put into his path….anyone with an ounce of intelligence could tell that he absolutely DETESTED the whole SP thing.
And no I am not nor do I defend this carpetbagging sack of NE manure who married an heiress to be a Senator.
No one “saddled mccain” – CindyLu called the shots and hated every minute but Princess wanted to be “first whatever”. If you closely watched CindyLuMcMealticket she was miserable after SP was announced.
It was kinda pathetic but well deserved.
having money doesn’t make you a good or smart spender.
@Basheert – Do we have to bring charity in to this?
Hear ye, Hear ye! GINO was against the Stimulus Plan before she was for it…Mommy, make the bad lady go away!
143 oregonbird Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 7:16 PM ….”It’s usually men, rather than women, who object to the fact that any woman would dare express herself in an active voice, rather than apologetically. ”
——————————————
Actually, your posting with an “active voice” had nothing to do with my reply.
If your previous comment #68 was intended to be viewed as a “likely scenario,” a prefacing remark to that effect would have been adequate to explain your apparent confidence that Specter would be “demanding” or that his affect would be “happy” as he was passing along party secrets to his comrades left back in the ranks of the GOP.
As it was, I was left with the impression that you were either intimates with Specter and his thoughts (less likely) or you were posting a possible scenario based on your own opinions of Specter and his motivations (more likely).
You had an interesting post that included some judgmental language that I questioned. You replied with an answer that was compatible with my assessment….a likely scenario based on your own opinion.
Thanks for your reply.
Prefacing remarks are for the weak! Or for weakening a point of view so it becomes lady-like and therefore acceptable to those of WAR-like persuasion. And as I doubt anyone on this blog is “intimate” with Specter, all our opinions regarding the mangy mutt’s nefarious plans/quest for sainthood are equal. And once again, your response to my post is entirely about not liking the “tone” of my opinions. You are welcome, you know, to have an opinion about the blog’s actual subject.
In keeping with that spirit, there is one way in which Specter’s “pragmatic” re-switchover will NOT benefit the Republican Party. It will not cause any other member, in either House- – or in a pitbull-protected redout, or a media mogel’s gold-encrusted highrise — to rethink the basic skewed response to their prime principle. They will continue to worship greed and power, and fail to see that they’re feeding on themselves.
Specter’s candid appraisal of his own future in the Republican Party should have made an immediate impression, since it was entirely about trading nothing for something. A lifeless party for a second chance. As a re-made Democrat, Specter has been guaranteed full seniority, despite being the ‘newest’ member of the caucus. I hear the pitter-patter of tiny rat feet; the Independent and possibly even the Socialist Party will be gaining young and recognizeable members during the next months.
But the Republican Party is doomed. And even when one of their own lays it out in terms of greed and viable paths to power — the GOP cannot understand that it is a walking corpse.
I’ve listened again to Specter’s speech. You have to give him this — it was sincere, clear-headed and factual. Wait… what took so long to leave the GOP?
Don’t be so elated about Specter. He is a “me first” self-serving, political opportunist. He will stick it to the Democrats the first chance he gets, if it serves his selfish interests. I know; I used to live in PA. Instead of a RINO, now Specter will be a DINO. We’d all be better off if Pennsylvanians knocked him out in the primaries, but it probably won’t happen.
Well, hired gun, I still live in PA and fully intend to vote to Specter. In the primaries and in the fall election.
Speaking of “selfish interests”… how do you spell that phrase? I bet is goes like this: P–A–T—-T–O–O–M–E–Y. President of Club for Growth (of my wallet).
151 oregonbird Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 11:17 PM …..”I’ve listened again to Specter’s speech. You have to give him this — it was sincere, clear-headed and factual….”
——————————-
I heartily agree. Engaged listening can be an epiphany…….or simply a modification in expectations of other people’s motivations. Good, either way.
Apparently, Lee323 and I are engaged… well, alrighty then, but the faux-subtle, smarmy insults must stay in the bedroom… in public I prefer outright violence.
When nearly everything is a rally to arms, there are bound to be plenty of occasions when you are the only one on the field…….public or private.
Take care of yourself, Bird. You sound intelligent, feisty, and earnest…..the world needs you and your voice.