Unemployment

In November, the unemployment rate dropped to 8.6% from 9% in October. Democrats have praised this decline in unemployment as a hopeful trend in a seemingly recovering economy. However, the Romney administration did not hesitate to address the decline in unemployment as a reminder of a malfunctioning labor field. Romney released a statement explaining that unemployment has remained above 8% throughout the thirty-four months of Obama’s tenure as president, which is a record high spell since the Great Depression (Richard W. Stevenson). Although unemployment as fallen from a high 10.1% under the Obama administration, Romney’s statement also noted, “The Obama administration may have come to accept such a high level of joblessness as the new normal. I will never accept it” (Richard W. Stevenson). Stephanie Condon of CBS News recounts a statement made by Republican House Speaker John Boehner, “Any job creation is welcome news, but the jobless rate in this country is still unacceptable. As you may remember, the Obama administration promised unemployment would stay below eight percent if its 'stimulus' was enacted. That promise has gone unfulfilled."

 

President Obama, rightfully hesitant to celebrate an 8.6% unemployment rate, draws on the steady creation of new jobs, “Despite some strong headwinds this year, the American economy has now created, in the private sector, jobs for the past 21 months in a row” (Richard W. Stevenson). Democrats are strategically highlighting the rise in jobs coupled with a declining unemployment rate as evidence of a healing economy. However, GOP candidates have reached out to potential supporters, claiming that these slight improvements do not outweigh the Obama administrations failure to substantially stimulate the economy. Mitt Romney also released a statement reading, "To me, the fact that so many millions of Americans are unemployed only highlights the urgent need for a fundamental change in the direction of our country... This is not exactly the hope and change that the American people bargained for” (Stephanie Condon).

Since the 1930’s, no president has been re-elected with an unemployment rate as high as today’s. However, if the unemployment rate continues to drop, historical precedent is in favor of the Obama administration.  Unemployment peaked two years ago at a staggering 10.1% and has not been as low as 8.6% since the beginning of Obama’s presidency in March 2009. In a similar situation, Ronald Reagan was re-elected in 1984 after unemployment was at a high 10.8% and fell to 8.5% one year from Election Day (Richard W. Stevenson).

Unfortunately for Democratic supporters, Obama does not project a decrease in unemployment reminiscent of the 1984 Reagan election. The White House suggested that unemployment may rise back to 9% by January 2012. Consequently, an increase in joblessness will likely be perceived as a sign of irreparable backtracking under the Obama administration. As seen in 1992, President George Bush was defeated in his run for re-election as unemployment rose to 7.8% in June before falling back to 7.3% on Election Day that year (Richard W. Stevenson). Therefore, precedent suggests that voters become skeptical and apprehensive whenever economic factors become pertinent issues within an election.

Works Cited: Richard W. Stevenson. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/03/us/politics/jobless-numbers-spur-competing-political-narratives.html?ref=politics.

Stephanie Condon. http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-57335597-503544/gop-hammers-obama-despite-lower-unemployment-rate/.

No More Cain.

As of December 3, GOP candidate Herman Cain has officially suspended his presidential bid due to “hurtful and false allegations” (CNN Wire Staff). These “false allegations” refer to sexual harassment suits brought on by Cain’s former colleagues, Sharon Bialek and Karen Kraushaar, during his 1990’s tenure as head of the National Restaurant Association. More recently however, a woman named Ginger White has come forward claiming to have sustained a “very casual” affair with Cain for thirteen years, despite his marital status (CNN Wire Staff).Attempting to defend himself, Cain explained to the New Hampshire Union Leader that he has been financially supporting White with her “month to month bills,” denying any physical sexual relationship. Cain commented in a Fox News interview, "I send checks to a lot of people; I help a lot of people. That in itself is not proof. So the other allegation in terms of it being a 13-year physical relationship, that is her words against my word" (CNN Wire Staff). In response to Cain’s decision to drop out of the race, White’s attorney delivered a statement on her behalf, "Ginger White respects Mr. Cain's decision regarding his campaign and indeed would have respected any decision he made. That being said, she is disappointed that he has not apologized for the public statements he has made about her and other women who have spoken out” (CNN Wire Staff).

Cain publicized the suspension of his campaign exactly one month prior to the Iowa caucuses, which are scheduled for January 3. Prior to the announcement, Cain admittedly reported a steady decline in donations and campaign contributions directly following the media’s disclosure of the unfaithful allegations brought on by Mrs. White. A Des Moines Register poll exhibited a decline in Cain supporters from 23% to a low 8% of likely Republican Iowa caucus-voters (CNN Wire Staff). Respondents affirmed that Cain had lost their support due to the several sexual harassment allegations, as well as his consistent inability to adequately answer questions concerning his stance on issues (CNN Wire Staff).

New Hampshire Republican officials who have previously pledged their support for Cain have begun reconsidering their choice. Cain’s most prominent supporter, former GOP state party chair Jack Kimball, has decided to base his decision on the candidate that Cain chooses to endorse (CNN Wire Staff).

Cain exclaimed during a press conference in Atlanta, “I am not going to be silenced and I will not go away.” The CNN Wire Staff also explained Cain’s description of his “Plan B: A website, TheCainSolutions.com, through which he will continue to advocate for his platform.”

Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachman, also in the running for the GOP chair, stated in regards to Cain’s dropout, "Herman Cain provided an important voice to this process. His ideas and energy generated tremendous enthusiasm for the conservative movement at a time it was so desperately needed to restore confidence in our country” (CNN Wire Staff).

During the press conference in Atlanta, Cain assured his supporters that his political career would not be crippled by these allegations. Despite the harsh conditions in which his current campaign has been derailed, Cain has declared that he is at “peace with God” and at “peace with his wife” (The CNN Wire Staff).

Works Cited: The CNN Wire Staff. http://www.cnn.com/2011/12/03/election/2012/cain-campaign/index.html?hpt=hp_t2

CSPAN VIDEO 3 11/20/2011

Various callers discuss their interpretation of the 2012 campaign advertisement released by the Cain campaign, which at one point depicts Cain’s campaign manager, Mark Block, smoking a cigarette.

CSPAN VIDEO 2 11/20/2011

Professor Julian Kantor, University Political Advertising Archive founder, explains the history of campaign advertisements. The advertisement clip shown, depicts Bill Benton’s 1950’s campaign ad for Senate, which is the earliest television ad within the archive.

CSPAN VIDEO 1 11/20/2011

Bill Adair is the editor of PolitiFact.com, which is a “fact checking” website designed in order to inform voters of the truthfulness of political statements. For example, he confronts some questionable claims that President Obama was sworn into office with his hand on the Qur’an and that he is a Muslim. Mr. Adair explains that the rumor is false and falls under the “Liar Liar Pants On Fire” category of the website rating. He also explains that each candidate has their own page, which exhibits all of the fact checks done on that specific candidate.

Email War

On Thursday, the Boston Globe reported that upon the end of Mitt Romney's tenure as Massachusetts State Governor, 11 high ranking gubernatorial officials had legally purchased their government issued hard drives before Romney left office. The purchased hard drives had contained a majority of the emails and correspondence written during the Romney Administration. According to the Globe report, Deval Patrick, the current Massachusetts State Governor, "has been bombarded with inquiries for records from the Romney era" but "has no electronic record of any Romney administration e-mails" (Jessica Yellin and Senior Producer Ted Metzer).

Consequently, the Globe report provoked a response from the Romney campaign. Gov. Patrick, a long time Obama supporter, has been labelled by the Romney team as "an opposition research arm of the Obama re-election campaign." In direct response to the report, Romney's representatives have fired back by requesting copies of any emails sent between the Patrick Administration and Obama's top political aids. Furthermore, Romney campaign manager Matt Rhodes has accused the Patrick staff of supplying the Boston Globe "with copies of cancelled checks from 2006 documenting the lawful purchase of computer equipment by departing members of the Romney administration. This action was nothing more than a weak attempt to disparage practices that you know were in complete compliance with the law" (Serafin Gomez).

The Democratic National Committee responded with a request for all emails pertaining to the purchase of computer hard drives, including several embarrassing search keywords, such as "flip-flop" and "destroy records" (Jessica Yellin and Senior Producer Ted Metzer). The chair of the DNC, Mrs. Wasserman Shultz,  commented, "Mitt Romney was planning to run for president towards the end of his administration, and the public has the right to know what kinds of communication were going on while he was beginning to plan that campaign. It is absolutely unconscionable, inexcusable that the records of those conversations or any conversations would have been wiped clean of servers"(Jessica Yellin and Senior Producer Ted Metzer).

Romney's communications director, Gail Gitcho, rationalized the purchase of the hard drives by stating that Romney's staff probably did not want their records to be subject to the "oppositions dig, which is what we are seeing happening now." Gitcho summed up the accusations as a slanderous tactic utilized by an administration that will "say and do anything to hold onto their power" (Jessica Yellin and Senior Producer Ted Metzer).  The Romney campaign has asserted that despite the loss of certain hard drives, Romney has archived 700 boxes of public documents–press releases, speeches, and the like (Jessica Yellin and Senior Producer Ted Metzer).

Although Mitt Romney has not officially become the Republican candidate, his nomination is more likely than not. Therefore, the Obama administration has begun allocating resources in order to run against the former Massachusetts Governor. They have attempted to label Romney as a "flip-flopper" who lacks core values and will do anything necessary to win. Mrs. Wasserman Schutz commented in a CNN interview, "Mitt Romney has a very clear track record of trying to reinvent himself, start over, flip-flop on major–issues" (Jessica Yellin and Senior Producer Ted Metzer).


Works Cited: Jessica Yellin and Senior Producer Ted Metzer. http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/11/18/romney-vs-democrats-war-over-emails-escalates/?hpt=hp_bn3
Serafin Gomez.http://politics.blogs.foxnews.com/2011/11/17/romney-camp-ma-dem-gov-opposition-research-arm-obama-campaign-0

Cain's Calling

Herman Cain, the CEO of Godfather Pizza turned GOP presidential candidate, has been recognized as a worthy business consultant and the founder of a new flat tax plan entitled "9-9-9." As opposed to his running-mates, Cain's religious values have remained relatively irrelevant throughout his debates and speeches. More recently, Cain has described his participation in the race as a mandate from God.

Eric Marrapodi, CNN Belief Blog Co-Editor, has focused in on Cain's religious background, which began in Antioch Baptist Church North in Atlanta, Georgia. In accordance with many southern religious perspectives, faith in God and hard work are inevitably linked, within the Cain family. Cain described his childhood financial status as extremely poor, or even "po" (Marrapodi). In order to support their family, Cain's mother labored as a maid and his father often worked three jobs simultaneously as a barber, a janitor at Pillsbury and a chauffeur for Coca-Cola executives. In Cain's recently published book, “This is Herman Cain! My Journey to the White House,” he explains that his family acquired financial stability, allowing them to purchase a modest home.

After years of corporate climbing, Cain became the CEO of Godfather Pizza in Omaha and the head of the National Restaurant Association. Soon after, Cain revisited his childhood church in Atlanta and became a licensed associate minister at Antioch in 2002 (Marrapodi). Cain became a member of the group of pastors referred to as the Sons of Antioch. He stated in an interview with Christian Today, “Like most ministers, I felt called to preach the word of God and minister to the least, the last, and the lost, and minister to His people."

Despite Cain's failure in running for Senate, his spiritual journey soon led him to the presidential race. During a speech in November, Cain expressed to the Georgia Young Republicans that he had never intended to run for president until he witnessed President Obama's “arrogant disregard for the people," which disabled the economy. After a long period of repetitive prayer and contemplation, Cain described what he perceived to be his calling from God, “When I finally realized that this was God saying what I needed to do, I was like Moses. ‘You got the wrong man, Lord! Are you sure?’ Now, you're not supposed to doubt God. But I'm going, ‘I think maybe you're looking at somebody else'" (Marrapodi).

Although the majority of the GOP candidates have expressed their run at the presidency as a "calling," Cain's religious values are exposed in an unconventional light. Candidates have historically expressed their religious morality through their stance on issues such as abortion and same sex marriage. However, Cain's values are expressed through his strong economic policy. Benny Tate, senior pastor of Rock Springs Church in Milner, Georgia has accompanied Cain throughout his campaign expressed, “Herman sees the pressing issues of our day are economic. Herman believes that, ‘By the sweat of thy face thou shall eat bread" (Marapodi). This passage found in Genesis 3:19 embodies Cain's reliance on personal responsibility to solve the current economic crisis within the United States.

In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Cain spoke out to the Occupy Wall Street movement, “Don't blame Wall Street, don't blame the big banks. “If you don't have a job and you're not rich, blame yourself!"

Works Cited: Eric Marrapod. http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2011/11/19/the-gospel-according-to-herman-cain/?hpt=hp_c2.

CSPAN VIDEO 3 11/13/2011

During the Texas Patriots PAC debate, Herman Cain provides a historical anecdote concerning his experience with GodFather pizza’s healthcare plan and the history of Medicare in the United States. He also explains that long term government projections of budget costs on healthcare plans are often misleading. He expresses his support for the Ryan’s Plan and how Medicare and Medicaid and other health care institutes must be restructured.

CSPAN VIDEO 2 11/13/2011

During the Texas Patriots PAC debate, Newt Gingrich discusses his perspective on providing a premium support Medicare program. He discusses the healthcare issue and providing people with a healthcare plan that they desire rather than one that is forced upon them. He proposes his health care plan that he will implement if elected.

CSPAN VIDEO 1 11/13/2011

President Regan is asked to explain is approach to decreasing the federal deficit and implementing a balanced budget. Regan outlines his policy, which will aim to increase economic growth, influence recovery without inflation, and the reduction of governmental accumulation of gross national products. He also discusses the cutback in government spending as the key to correcting the national deficit. Mr. Mondale then explains his approach to influencing economic growth and decreasing the deficit.

Flip-Flop

The term “flip-flopper,” in the political sense, refers to individuals who shift their positions or are willing to compromise in order to secure their chair in office.   Although the term has a negative connotation, many strategists agree that compromise is a necessary force in politics. Both left and right wing extremists in congress are often unwilling to cooperate and fail to adhere to “give and take.” The absence of negotiation has facilitated a 9% decrease in public approval ratings of Congress. However, voters insist that they will not support candidates who are willing to compromise on critical issues. In recent history, the 2004 Bush Campaign released an advertisement that depicted Democratic candidate John Kerry windsurfing. The ad narrator read, "In which direction would John Kerry lead? Kerry voted for the Iraq war, opposed it, supported it and now opposes it again. ... John Kerry: whichever way the wind blows" (Julian Zelizer).

Leading Republican candidate, Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romey, and President Obama have concurrently been referred to as “flip-flopers.” Perhaps the most common scrutiny of the Obama administration has been his willingness to meet centrists “halfway” and his failure to stand firmly against right wing extremists.

Mitt Romney has also distinguished himself as a flip-flopper due to his willingness to shift his stance on issues in order to secure an election. His rival candidate Rick Perry exclaimed during a Republican debate, "I think Americans just don't know sometimes which Mitt Romney they're dealing with” (Julian Zelizer).

Priorities USA is a pro-President Obama political organization whose leaders have submitted a memo characterizing Romney as a pro-life candidate despite his convenient flip-flop persona. The organizations co-founder, Bill Burton, claimed, “"If Romney wins the presidency, he won't have to 'fake it' ever again. He will be free to push a radical anti-choice agenda that bans abortion, appoint Supreme Court justices who will overturn Roe vs. Wade, and fulfill his promise to support legislation that defunds Planned Parenthood” (Foxnews). Burton was also questioned on Romney’s stance concerning the Mississippi “personhood” amendment. The pro-life amendment establishes “personhood” as the moment of conception. Democrats submitted disputed claims, which suggest that Romney has expressed his support for the amendment during a FoxNews interview in October. Burton replied to these statements, “(Romney is) finally being honest about his anti-choice agenda”(Foxnews). Democrats have attempted to distinguished Romney as a candidate willing to alter his standpoints regarding pivotal issues, despite his truly pro-life conservative values.

Without specifically referring the Mississippi personhood amendment, Romney commented that he does believe that life begins at conception. However, while running for governor in Massachusetts Romney vowed to uphold abortion rights. This discrepancy illuminates Romney’s willingness to compromise and flip-flop his stance (Foxnews).

However, perhaps a “flip-floper” is precisely what America needs in order to settle the inevitable stalemate within Congress. For example, President Ronald Regan’s willingness to negotiate with the Soviet Union in 1987, despite his reluctance to do so throughout his presidency, is considered a compromise worth celebrating (Foxnews).  Although Romney’s shifting standpoints and Obama’s tendency to compromise have been ridiculed as misleading attempts to further their political agenda’s, up-front cooperation and open-mindedness may influence the re-birth of America’s dwindling economy.

Works Cited: Julian Zelizer. http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/09/opinion/zelizer-flip-floppers/index.html?iref=allsearch

Foxnews. http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/11/12/pro-obama-group-romney-not-flip-flopper-on-abortion/#ixzz1ddiOsSIf
  

OOPS!

During Wednesday night's CNBC Republican debate in Rochester, Michigan; Texas Governor Rick Perry may have solidified his standing as the worst debater among the GOP candidates. He responded to a question, "I will tell you: It's three agencies of government, when I get there, that are gone: Commerce, Education and the -- what's the third one there? Let's see. ... OK. So Commerce, Education and the -- ... The third agency of government I would -- I would do away with the Education, the ... Commerce and -- let's see -- I can't. The third one, I can't. Sorry. Oops” (Todd Graham). After the debate Perry attempted to lighten the mood by commenting, "I'm sure glad I had my boots on, because I sure stepped in it out there” (Todd Graham).

Perry’s folly was truly astounding based on the irrelevancy of his answer. He was asked a question concerning his approach to “working with Democrats across the aisle.” However, in an attempt to project a confident appearance, Perry expressed his desire to cut three government agencies, but forgot the last one! His answer was a futile response to Ron Paul’s declaration that, if elected, he would disband five agencies of government.  Perry’s attempt to consolidate and solidify his own policy, to disband “unnecessary” government agencies, backfired upon his nervous blunder (Todd Graham). Perry was asked to recall the forgotten third government agency several times, however he could not summon his answer.

Unfortunately for Perry, debates play an essential role in creating a “buzz” about a candidate. Although Perry later affirmed that the third agency he would abolish is The Department of Energy, his lacking debate skills and unfamiliarity with popular issues will have a detrimental effect on his campaign.

The Texas Governor’s lack of awareness and certainty in former debates may have cast a bad first impression among possible supporters. In response, his campaign expressed their confidence that Perry would redeem himself in more recent debates. However, Perry’s “oops” may have solidified his negative impression and influenced his probable impending failure.

The Perry campaign began backtracking on Thursday by presenting Perry as a human, capable of being mistaken. Perry appeared on the David Letterman show in order to supplement his forgetfulness with comic relief. Perry explained, "Hey, listen. You try concentrating with Mitt Romney smiling at you. That is one handsome dude" (Foxnews). The Perry campaign also created a page on the candidate’s website, which allows viewers to participate in a poll expressing the government agency that they would like to see abolished. Perry has also invited supporters to donate five dollars for every government agency they “would like to forget” (CNN Wire Staff). One conservative blogger named Andrew Sullivan tweeted "Perry collapses. Cannot remember a list of three federal government departments he wants to abolish past the first two. Seriously. And then he says 'oops.' He has all but disappeared inside his suit in this debate and is now basically done” (CNN Wire Staff).

The Perry Campaign submitted a list during the Letterman show of the top ten reasons for his forgetfulness,

10. "Actually there were three reasons I messed up last night. One was the nerves, two was the headache and three was, and three, uh, uh. Oops." 

9. "I don't know what you're talking about. I think things went well." 

8. "Hey, I was up late last night watching `Dancing With the Stars."

7. "I thought the debate was tonight." 

6. "Hey, listen. You try concentrating with Mitt Romney smiling at you. That is one handsome dude." 

5. "Uh, el nino?" 

4. "I had a five-hour energy drink six hours before the debate." 

3. "I really hoped to get on my favorite talk show, but instead I ended up here." 

2. "Hey, I wanted to help take the heat off my buddy Herman Cain." 

1. "I just learned Justin Bieber is my father."

Works Cited: Todd Graham. http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/10/opinion/graham-debate-perry/index.html

Foxnews. http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/11/11/perry-pokes-fun-at-debate-mistakes-on-letterman/#ixzz1ddA9pNIk

CSPAN VIDEO 3 11/6/2011

Ms. Defrancis, Chief Public Affairs Officer of the American Red cross, discusses how social media is enabling the public in aiding the Red Cross’s mission to help people prevent, prepare for and respond to disasters. Ms. Defrancis talks about the gap between the publics’ use of social media in relation to a disaster, and the ability of disaster response agencies to respond to these disasters in a timely fashion. She closes her argument by suggesting a method to close this apparent time gap.

CSPAN VIDEO 2 11/6/2011

Craig Fugate discusses FEMA’s (Federal Emergency Management Agency) short term and long-term goals for the use of social media tools in times of natural disaster. He discusses the different methods that social media can utilize in expediting communication with the public.

CSPAN VIDEO 1 11/6/2011

Senator Marc Pryor introduces the various speakers and discusses new media and its usefulness in disaster communications.

Church and State in the 2012 Republican Primaries

“Separation of Church and State” is a valued constitutional declaration that has been customary throughout American history. The majority of presidential candidates take a “universal” or “national” religion, lending their policies to a wide range of creeds and denominations. However, Texas Governor Rick Perry has often intentionally presented a strong Christian image in an effort to win over conservative Christian supporters that comprise a large portion of the Republican Party supporters. On the opposite spectrum, Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney has received endless scrutiny concerning the inherent values instilled in his religious persona. Romney, a faithful Mormon, has effortlessly asserted that, if elected, he does not intend to press his religious values in his policy. However, popular speculation suggests that religious beliefs are inevitably linked to moral values, which comprise the basis of a candidate’s policies. Religion and “faithful voters” will have a significant impact in the 2012 primary elections.

During a speech at Virginia’s Liberty University, Perry addressed secular humanists that value “separation of Church and State” as a vital American tradition. Perry proclaimed, “America is going to be guided by some set of values - the question is going to be whose values, I would suggest … it is those Christian values that this country was based upon. (Dan Gilgoff).

Some close to Perry suggest he views his campaign as a “calling” from God. Kelly Shackelford, an influential conservative activist in Texas, stated that Perry was reluctant to commit to the campaign. However, his beliefs were reaffirmed by what he perceived to be the “Lord’s calling” (Dan Gilgoff).

Perry has expressed his intent to apply Christian values to his policies concerning various conservative hot topics, such as abortion and gay marriage. After taking office in 2000 as Texas State Governor, Perry has signed several laws requiring parental consent to be presented upon any female minors request for an abortion. He has also cut a portion of Planned Parenthood funds and passed a law forcing all women seeking abortions to view a sonogram of the fetus prior to the procedure (Dan Gilgoff). Kelly Shackelford comments, “He has passed 20-odd pieces of pro-life legislation, He was vilified by the media for it, and he didn’t stand his ground [just] because it was a good policy position. It really all emanated from his faith” (Dan Gilgoff).

In response to the pro-life legislation passed by Perry, Planned Parenthood claims, “As governor of Texas, Rick Perry has pursued a single-minded agenda: Take away women's health care, destroy Planned Parenthood, and block women's access to safe abortion care” (Dan Gilgoff).  If elected, will Perry blur the boundaries between Church and State policies that have built the foundation of our legislation?

In the past, Mitt Romney has vehemently attempted to convince voters that his private religious faith will not be a dominant factor throughout his presidency if elected. However, after his election to state Governor of Massachusetts, Romney has downplayed his faith throughout his service. However, during a speech in December 2007, Romney, relating to Catholic president John F. Kennedy, stated, “Almost 50 years ago another candidate from Massachusetts explained that he was an American running for president, not a Catholic running for president,” Romney said. “Like him, I am an American running for president. I do not define my candidacy by my religion. A person should not be elected because of his faith nor should he be rejected because of his faith” (Jessica Ravitz).

Romney has asserted that he will not abandon his Mormon faith in order to further his political career. He has expressed that he does not intend to be a “spokesperson” for his faith and that no president should represent “one religion, group, or interest” (Jessica Ravitz). 

Works Cited: Dan Gilgoff. http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2011/11/05/rick-perry%E2%80%99s-long-faith-journey-culminates-in-presidential-run/?hpt=hp_c1

Jessica Ravitz. http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2011/10/29/the-shaping-of-mitt-romney-a-look-at-his-faith-journey-2/

 

Cain Accuser Affirms Her Claims

Republican Candidate Herman Cain’s “campaign train” has been temporarily derailed due to strong allegations of sexual harassment against the candidate during his tenure as GodFather Pizza executive. One of Cain’s accusers, retaining her anonymous identity, released a statement through her lawyer, Joel Bennet, which was delivered to support her claim that, "in good faith about a series of inappropriate behaviors and unwanted advances” (Tom Cohen and Alan Silverleib). Bennett’s client, Cain’s accuser, has been married for 26 years and wishes to avoid media confrontation concerning the alleged traumatic series of inappropriate events that occurred during the span of a few months in 1999. The statement was released in accordance with the National Restaurant Association, which Cain headed for a number of years. The current head of the organization, Dawn Sweeny, issued a press release confirming that in July 1999, Bennett's client "filed a formal internal complaint, in accordance with the association's existing policies prohibiting discrimination and harassment” (Tom Cohen and Alan Silverleib). In the past, Cain disputed the allegations and is continuing to do so in light of the current exposure.

Cain’s spokesman, J.D. Gordon, affirmed the campaign’s desire to restore media and public attention on Cain’s political strategy to correct the economic and unemployment problems facing America. Gordon expressed the campaign’s intent to consider filing a lawsuit against Politico, the news organization that released the anonymous allegations last Sunday. The basis of the lawsuit would be in question of the use of anonymous sources. However, Politico executive editor Jim VandeHei expressed to CNN his confidence in the factual and accurate collection of the details delivered in the text supported by the anonymous subject (Tom Cohen and Alan Silverleib).

On Thursday, in an interview with CNN, Cain questioned rival GOP candidate Texas Governor Rick Perry involvement in the recent allegations forged against him. Cain submitted that Curt Anderson, a recent addition to the Perry team and former aide and consultant to the Cain campaign, released the allegations to Politico journalists as a political strategy, considering Cain’s recent rise to the top of the polls. During an interview on Thursday, Rick Perry responded to these claims by declaring himself and his staff as innocent. He stated that anyone involved in his campaign that was found to be “passing rumors” would be fired.

In response to the accusations, Cain expressed his belief that American’s are tired of the slanderous “gutter politics” commonly seen within presidential races and also declared his determination to win the primaries. Recent polls show that despite the scandalous allegations against Cain, his campaign has raised $1.2 million this week from loyal supporters. An ABC News/Washington Post poll released Friday morning displayed Cain at the top of the charts alongside running mate Mitt Romney (Tom Cohen and Alan Silverleib).

Tom Cohen and Alan Silverleib report, “According to the poll, 24% of Republicans and independents who lean toward the GOP now say they support Romney, compared with 23% for Cain. Romney and Cain have been neck-and-neck in most major national surveys over the past month.”

Works Cited: Tom Cohen and Alan Silverleib. http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/04/politics/cain-allegations/index.html

C-Span Video 3

Robert Woodward, professor at Drake University, discusses the meedia’s role in Iowan and national politics throughout campaings. Mr. Woodward explains that citizens attain the majority of their knowledge concerning candidates and their policies through information technology and the media. Mr. Woodward also discusses the role of local press and national broadcasts in delivering political coverage and political advertisements to citizens throughout America.

C-Span Video 2

Republican candidate Herman Cain delivers a speech to supporters and media coverage reporters in Roosevelt Park, Detroit in order to back his “9-9-9” plan by discussing his qualifications as a former economic consultant in the early 1990’s. He also introduces his senior economic advisor, the “co-architect of ‘9-9-9,’” Rich Lowrie of Cleveland Ohio. Cain then lays out the five goals of his “9-9-9” plan: simplicity, transparency, efficiency, fairness, and revenue neutrality.

C-Span Video 1

Political Media Reporter Jennifer Jacobs is interviewed via phone regarding the reaction to the 2012 Republican candidates debate in Iowa. She explains that Romney performed well during the debate despite the arguments that ensued between his fellow candidates. Jacobs also discusses the media attraction and the historical background of the Iowa State Fair, which is perhaps the most commonly visited area by presidential candidates.

America's Jobs Plan

On October 12 Vice President Joe Biden asserted that violent crime such as murder, rape, and burglary will inevitably increase if Republicans in Congress reject the Obama administration’s proposed jobs bill. Biden’s statements do not interpret any statistical evidence and many Americans, including many non-Republicans regard these statements as arbitrary and “irresponsible” (Fox News).

The legislation in question, backed by the Obama Administration, is a $35 billion bill that would delegate $30 billion to aid state and local governments in ensuring the jobs of 400,000 teachers. The remaining $5 million will enable cities to retain jobs for 18,000 police officers and 7,000 firefighters (Fox News).

Biden responded to Congress’ defeat of the bill during a speech to Philadelphia police officers at the University of Pennsylvania,

“Let me tell you, it’s not temporary when that 9-1-1 call comes in and a woman’s being raped. If a cop shows up in time to prevent the rape, it’s not temporary to that woman,” Biden said with his voice rising. “It’s not temporary to the guy whose store is being held up and has a gun being pointed to his head if a cop shows up and he’s not killed. That’s not temporary to that store owner. Give me a break -- temporary. I wish these guys who thought it was temporary, I wish they had some notion what it’s like be on the other side of a gun or a 200-pound man standing over you telling you to submit. Folks, it matters. It matters.”

These remarks are outlandish and may be interpreted by victims of violent crimes as sponsoring a manipulative political agenda. The Vice President’s comment was an inappropriate and tactless effort to gain support for the Democratic jobs bill.

In response to Congress’ initial rejection of Obama’s $447 billion dollar jobs bill, Senate Republicans are pushing their own agenda. They have cultivated their own legislation in regards to the “jobs issue” which includes tax reform, a balanced budget amendment, a repeal of the federal health care law and lifting prohibitions on offshore drilling (Fox News).

While delivering a speech in Virginia, one stop on Obama’s bus tour to promote his jobs bill, Obama responded to the Republican proposed bill by stating, “Let me repeat, dirtier air, dirtier water, repealing health care and ending rules on Wall Street is not a jobs plan” (Fox News). Recently on his tour, Obama has made remarks in support of the jobs bill every two days, and in a different state every six days.

Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid, provides an interesting perspective concerning the Republican Senators decision to fight the Democratic jobs bill. Henry Reid stated that the Republican Senators rejected the bill in correspondence with their political agenda, to elect a Republican president. By rejecting the bill, the crippling jobs issue will not be corrected in any way, preceding the 2012 election (Fox News).

In opposition to Obama’s statement, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell stated on Wednesday that Obama needs to “park the campaign bus, shelve the talking points and focus on jobs” (Fox News). McConnell points out, “It’s completely preposterous at a time when 14 million Americans are looking for a job in this country for the president to be riding around on a bus saying we should raise taxes – on the very folks who create jobs” (Fox News).

Works Cited: Fox News. http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/10/19/biden-evokes-sexual-violent-imagery-again-in-push-for-447-jobs-bill/#ixzz1cDcjzt4L

The “Inevitable Candidate”

Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney is likely to remain the dominant nominee for the Republican candidacy throughout the primary elections. However, polls suggest that Romney has not secured his seat as the prevailing candidate just yet. Polls in Iowa reveal, “24% of registered Republicans say they are backing Romney, who's making his second bid for the presidency, with Cain, the former Godfather's Pizza CEO and radio talk show host, at 21%. Romney’s three-point margin is within the surveys sampling error” (Paul Steinhauser). The polls results, a three-point gap separating leading nominees, highlights the “undecided” stance of Republican voters.

Yet, many perceive Mitt Romney as the “inevitable candidate” because he is regarded as the “candidate to beat Obama.” Romney has established assertiveness throughout the Republican debates and cultivated a tight knit campaign that has potential to win the presidential election. However, precedent suggests the “most likely to win” nominee is not necessarily accepted as the most appropriate candidate to represent Party policies. In 2004, Howard Dean, Democratic presidential nominee, emerged as the party’s most progressive candidate (Joe Trippi). Dean’s anti-war, anti-Bush stance sat well with Democrats who did not support the Washington Democrats decision to “go-along” with the Bush administration’s Iraq war (Joe Trippi). However, the overall Democratic Party sentiment conveyed Senator John Kerry as the most “likely to win” against Bush. The Iraq war became a major issue during the election, and Kerry’s pro-war stance did not gain him excessive popularity. A poll taken at the 2004 Democratic National Convention found, ““Eighty percent of [delegates] polled said they opposed the decision to go to war against Iraq at the time it began, and 95 percent say they now oppose the war. A majority of 63 percent want U.S. troops out within two years; only one in four say the United States should stay as long as it takes to achieve administration goals” (Joe Trippi).

Romney is currently facing similar adversities and is the subject of Republican voter speculation concerning his campaigns health policy. “RomneyCare” is regarded as the genesis of the highly disputed national “ObamaCare” plan. If Conservative Republicans feel “disenfranchised” by Romney’s proposed health plan and his puzzling stance on abortion, they may display ambivalent and apathetic views toward the GOP’s nominees. Matt Kibbe, president of the Tea Party aligned FreedomWorks, points out that voter turnout may be effected if Republicans do in fact feel “disenfranchised” by the lack of representation concerning their political stance on popular issues, such as abortion and healthcare (Joe Trippi). In September 2004, sixty-five percent of Bush supporters claimed to be “very enthusiastic” about their candidate, whereas only forty-two percent of Kerry supports displayed strong enthusiasm (Joe Trippi). This discrepancy in voter enthusiasm compliments Matt Kibbe’s speculation, that if conservative voters are disenfranchised or unenthused by their candidate, than voter turnout may be significantly effected. One Wall Street Journal/NBC poll revealed, forty percent of Republicans stated that they would vote for Romney “with some reservations.” Also, Public Policy Polling discovered that sixty-nine percent of Romney’s supporters claimed that they “might end up supporting someone else in the primary” (Joe Trippi).

Governor Mitt Romney, the “inevitable candidate,” may in fact become the Republican candidate for the 2012 election. However, the commonly noted cliché, history repeats itself, may have relevance concerning Republican support and voter turnout during the general election.

Works Cited: Paul Steinhauser, CNN Deputy Political Director. http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/10/26/poll-romney-at-or-tied-for-top-spot-in-first-4-states-to-vote/?hpt=hp_bn3.

Joe Trippi, Fox News. http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2011/10/24/romney-will-wind-up-as-gop-nominee-but-will-party-faithful-have-regrets/#ixzz1cDGGzQwd.

Callers from Democratic Party members comment in response to the 2008 Democratic Party Platform.

Gene Davis discusses the Democratic Party’s stance on energy efficiency and creating a new energy policy.

Chris Jennings from the Democratic Platform drafting committee discusses his admiration for the Clinton administrations health care plan, and Obama’s acceptance of similar health care plans. He outlines health care insurance as a basic human right.

Can Herman Cain Deliver?

Republican candidate Herman Cain is said to have answered the GOP supporters calling for a candidate to oppose the front-runner, Gov. Mitt Romney, However, Cain has delivered various controversial comments and interviews that have supporters doubting his competence.

In a recent interview, Cain suggested constructing an electrical fence surrounding the U.S. -Mexico border in order to electrify those attempting to illegally immigrate to the United States. He later retracted this statement and explained that is was a “joke” and that “American’s need to get a better sense of humor.” However, is it appropriate, under any circumstances, for a presidential candidate to make such remarks in a public interview?

Perhaps, for a moment, the most attractive policy under Cain’s belt was his “9-9-9” tax code plan. Recently however, due to concerns that the majority of American’s would pay more taxes under this plan, Cain has modified the plan to exclude a number of Americans living under the poverty line that qualify and to allow several deductions (Associated Press- Foxnews). Unfortunately for Cain’s campaign, those who supported his plan appreciated its straightforward approach to revising the tax code and by modifying its simplicity he may have sacrificed some votes.

Cain has also been scrutinized for failing to deliver a strong pro-life agenda despite his assertion that, as president, he would institute anti-abortion policies. After stating to CNN his pro-life stance, Cain commented, “"the government shouldn’t be trying to tell people everything to do, especially when it comes to social decisions that they need to make." This statement clearly does not coincide with an anti-abortion agenda. Recently, Cain, when presented with a hypothetical, has also explained that he would be open to negotiating with terrorists in exchange for captive U.S. soldiers. He later retracted this statement and claimed he “misspoke” due to the pace of the interview (Associated Press). During an economic speech in Detroit, Cain comments, “In a couple of instances ... I misspoke because of the pace of the interview. I don't call it a flip-flop. I'd rather come back and explain to people what I really meant. It doesn't send mixed messages. It just shows that I'm willing to correct myself ... if in fact I need to correct myself for clarity. That's what I'm trying to achieve” (Associated Press- Foxnews).

One 60-year-old Gene Carkeet of Memphis, Tennessee stated after attending a Cain rally, “I'm looking for someone that's electable and right now I don't think he fits into that category” (Associated Press-Foxnews). However, many supporters are quick to overlook Cain’s lack of clarity based on the natural “growing pains” that follow sudden national exposure. Kay Godwin, co-founder of Georgia Conservatives in Action, comments, "Look at Romney and Perry at the last debate. They can't even be civil to each other on a stage in front of a national audience," Godwin said. "At his core, Herman has the heart to save this country” (Associated Press-Foxnews).

Works Cited: Associated Press-Foxnews. http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/10/22/cain-stumbling-under-glare-national-spotlight/#ixzz1bec6Xdnp

Republican Debate, Las Vegas Nevada

The Republican Debate in Las Vegas, Nevada on Tuesday exhibited the candidates policies regarding hot topics such as immigration, “ObamaCare,” and the much disputed “9-9-9” plan laid out by candidate Herman Cain.
Early in Tuesday’s debate, as expected, Herman Cain’s “9-9-9” plan quickly became a controversial topic of debate. The opposing candidates boldly outlined their standpoints in relation to the plan and expressed their interpretations of a more appropriate tax code plan. The candidates believed Cain’s plan to be a far too simplistic approach to correcting a complex and intricate dilemma. Paul Steinhauser and Peter Hamby of CNN Newsroom recorded several of the candidate’s retorts,

“Herman's well-meaning, and I love his boldness’, said former Sen. Rick Santorum of Pennsylvania. ‘I give him credit for -- for starting a debate, but it's not good for families.’

"Herman, I love you, brother, but let me tell you something, you don't need to have a big analysis to figure this thing out. Go to New Hampshire, where they don't have a sales tax, and you're fixing to give them one," said Texas Gov. Rick Perry. "Herman. It's not going to fly." said Rep. Ron Paul of Texas.

"It's very, very dangerous. And it will raise more revenues," said Rep. Ron Paul of Texas.

“The analysis I did, person by person, return by return, is that middle-income people see higher taxes under your plan," said former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney.

Cain responded to these claims by claiming that “lobbyists, accountants, and politicians” favor the current tax code and are averted to implementing a “simple and fair” tax code (Paul Steinhauser and Peter Hamby). 

Later in the debate, Gov. Mitt Romney became the subject of scrutiny regarding his health plan, “RomneyCare,” that was passed in Massachusetts during his term. Upon Romney’s assertion that, if elected, he would repeal the nation’s current “ObamaCare” plan, former Senator Rick Santorum called into question Romney’s credibility concerning the national healthcare issue. Santorum vehemently sought to discredit Romney as a hypocrite based on his implementation of “RomneyCare,” which has been regarded by Republicans as the basis of “ObamaCare.” Both candidates became entangled in an unprofessional back-and-forth,


"You can't change the facts," shouted Santorum.
"Rick, you had your chance. Let me speak," fired back Romney.
"You're out of time. You're out of time," responded Santorum (Paul Steinhauser and Peter Hamby).


Mitt Romney also butted heads with Texas Governor Rick Perry in regards to his immigration policy. Romney, for a second time, was referred to as a hypocrite after stating that his administration would strongly stand against illegal immigration. However, Perry rebutted this statement by exclaiming that Romney had hired illegal aliens to work in his home. Romney quickly explained that upon the discovery of these workers as illegal’s they were immediately disbanded. Soon after, a shouting match ensued and Romney stated, "This has been a tough couple of debates for Rick, and I understand that. And so you're going to get testy" (Paul Steinhauser and Peter Hamby).
Works Cited: Paul Steinhauser and Peter Hamby. http://www.cnn.com/2011/10/19/politics/five-things-learned-gop-debate/index.html

Michelle Obama at the 2008 Democratic National Convention at the Pepsi Factory in Denver, Colorado

Part of Michelle Obama’s speech regarding the family values that her and her husband Barack Obama share. They also discuss the importance of instilling these values in their children’s lives and the nations youth. A caller also discusses his appreciation for the Obama campaign.

2008 Democratic National Convention at the Pepsi Factory in Denver, Colorado

Callers discuss their reactions to Michelle Obama’s speech during the Democratic National Convention. One woman discusses her decision to change her vote to favor Obama after hearing Michelle Obama’s words on his union policy.

2008 Democratic National Convention at the Pepsi Factory in Denver, Colorado

Several democratic representatives discuss their reactions to Michelle Obama’s speech during the 2008 Democratic Convention. Monique Davis, a state representative from Illinois, discusses the importance of portraying Barack Obama as a true family man in touch with hard working Americans. Representative Jack Franks discusses the “Clinton-Obama devide,” and expresses his anticipation to unite Democrats after Hilary Clinton’s address during the Convention.

The Unemployed Population: Unexpected Support for Obama

Despite staggeringly high unemployment rates throughout the nation, the Obama Campaign has reported a large number of healthy financial donations from areas strongly effected by the jobs issue. An Associated Press study exhibits the donations received from Obama supporters in regions with high unemployment rates from the second and third quarters of 2011. The reported funds received were larger than that of Obama’s 2007 campaign.

Regions of the United States with high unemployment rates are generally expected to support the Republican Party due to their focus on the unemployment rate as a central issue in the 2012 campaign. Obama’s campaign raised $70 million this quarter, however the Republican Party reported similar donation figures. Although the Democratic Party would prefer to have received larger donations than the Republican Party, these figures demonstrate the regions with high unemployment as supporting their candidate despite the nations current jobs issue.

Republican candidates campaigns have raised a total of $52 million this quarter. Among the leading Republican candidates, Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney comments on Obama’s jobs record, "Right now, America's in crisis," said Romney at an Oct. 11 Republican debate devoted exclusively to the economy. "You want to have someone who's smart, who has experience, who knows how the financial services sector works, who knows how to protect American jobs -- and I do. I've done it" (Fox News). Despite Mitt Romeny’s claims and Obama’s bumpy track record with tackling the nations’ complex unemployment issue, there have been reports of an increasing number of donations received from both Democratic and Republican leaning counties. In the greater Detroit area, recognized for an extremely high unemployment rate of 14 percent, Democratic supports have made substantially larger number donations this year than in Obama’s 2007 campaign- “albeit in smaller amounts when adjusting for inflation” (Fox News).

Campaign finance records exhibit donor’s within the $200- $2,500 range, which encompasses 40 percent of Obama’s fundraising demographic. Fox news captured some of their personal motivations for lending monetary support to the Democratic Party’s campaign, “’I believe in the ideas that he has for the country,’ said donor Barbara Weeda, a 70-year-old retiree from Joshua Tree, Calif., home to San Bernardino county and its 13 percent jobless rate” (Fox News). Another supporter explains, “’How else is he going to get elected than to just dig in and help as much as you can?’ she said, saddened at what she sees as a lack of cooperation in Washington negotiating a jobs bill” (Fox News).

The Obama campaign released a video stating that the 2012 campaign has received donations from nearly 1 million supporters. Fox news displays his words, "’That's a million people taking ownership of this campaign $5 and $10 at a time. Each one of those people has a story about why they gave,’ he said, noting that he's making personal phone calls to random donors to thank them for their support” (Fox News).

Works Cited. Fox News. http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/10/16/number-donations-to-obama-up-though-in-smaller-increments/?test=latestnews#ixzz1azHCqGUU