12.09.2009
A Charlie Brown Christmas
As a kid we tried decorating our Christmas tree while the Charlie Brown Christmas special was on. Dad initially put the lights on the tree and we decorated but as we grew older we just took over the whole process. Mom would bake the cookies and serve the hot chocolate. We would go through the macaroni ornaments we made in elementary school and proudly hang our "baby's first Christmas" ornaments too. Every time I watch this it takes me back to those days now past but I have grown to appreciate those memories. The one thing I like most about this special is the final part; it reminds us what the season is all about. Merry Christmas
Kokesh's Pledge
Adam Kokesh is a candidate with a movement behind him. Kokesh represents liberty, integrity, and most importantly freedom. His pledge to accept only the national average income while serving in congress is something that all candidates, Republican or Democrat, should do. I encourage voters living in the New Mexico's 3rd congressional district to listen to Mr. Kokesh. Liberty is the only 'hope' to effectively 'change' our state and nation for the better.
12.01.2009
Gary Johnson's Our America Initiative
I am looking forward to hearing more from the Our America Initiative. Gary Johnson is now expressly propelling himself into the national liberty movement, a move clearly designating himself as a possible presidential candidate. Liberty is always the true hope and the most essential change.
11.25.2009
11.23.2009
Governor Johnson on KUNM
11.22.2009
11.20.2009
11.15.2009
Ron Paul on Monetary Policy
America need to improve their economic literacy. Our future does not solely rely on our military strength but on the solvent strength of our economic policies. As a young American it is becoming more apparent that it is my generations responsibility to wage the economic warfare that will save this country.
Kokesh Update
11.14.2009
11.04.2009
Democrats and Republicans for Kokesh
Denish and Ethics? Sure....
11.03.2009
11.01.2009
Lugar's Profound Points
10.20.2009
Congressman Rohrabacher on President Obama
The Congressman's words could never be more true... all of it! Those in the GOP calling for an impeachment of Obama need to leave the party immediately. They sound just like the idiots in the Democratic party that hated President Bush so much they wanted to impeach and ship him off to prison. This ignorant bravado lends no intillegence to the great discourse our nation is in now.
10.14.2009
State Wide Tea Party
9.21.2009
Update on HR 1207: Audit the Fed!
Congressman Harry Teague of New Mexico's 2nd District is supporting HR 1207. Thank Congressman for being a delegate and representing your constituency correctly in reference to HR 1207. Audit the Fed!
9.14.2009
A Memo from NVB
My name is Nicholas Byrd and, as you can see, I am a new contributor to the New Mexico Politico. Before I get into the think of it, I believe that an introduction is in order. I am a son of the southern Mesilla Valley, living and working on 150 acres of pecan farm for the better part of the last 22 years. I am currently finishing up my first college degree that will effectively make me a Psychologist, a Bio-chemist, and a Forensic Scientist all wrapped up into one nice, neat, little package. I am an observer of people and events both by trade and by hobby, and I intend to use the NMP as a medium to chronicle and share my observations, my viewpoints, and my opinions (which, more often than not, turn out to be judgments…). I feel inclined to warn you, however, about my personality and tendencies. I am an honest man (usually to the degree of brutality), I am a straightforward man, and I am a man who is steadfast in his convictions. To be perfectly honest I would feel remiss in my duties if I didn’t offend some of you (or most of you) with my ranting, so reader discretion is advised. My first rant will address the deplorable state of our youth today and the absence of responsibility among them, and this will follow shortly...I look forward to addicting you to my commentaries.
That is all.
You may contact him nvb@newmexicopolitico.org
Healthcare Reform Memo by RTR
First, I’d like to start out by saying that everyone just needs to relax. Everyone getting all out of control and yelling and generally making jerks of themselves doesn’t solve anything. Take a chill pill, and listen to what Obama has to say. You don’t have to like what he’s saying; but at least try to understand why he’s saying it. Now that that’s out of the way, I’d like to say that I love the bill that was passed by the House. I think it represents a great step forward in the quest to get all Americans affordably covered.
Here is President Obama’s speech from the other night. Have a look for yourself if you don’t believe me.
9.11.2009
9.09.2009
No 'Weh' Jose.... Iglesias Responds.
Martinez on Weh
Martinez Response to Weh Announcement
September 8, 2009
Las Cruces – Susana Martinez, Republican gubernatorial candidate today issued the following statement in response to Allen Weh’s announcement:
“As the step-mother of a current serviceman, we all owe a debt of gratitude to those who serve our country and I respect Allen Weh’s military service.
“Allen Weh has political experience as Republican party chairman for the last 4 years, but I believe we must nominate a different kind of candidate with a proven record of taking on corruption if we are going to beat Diane Denish next fall.”
###
9.08.2009
HUD Secretary 'Bawney Fwank'?
Yes, Congressman Frank wants to be in charge of HUD. Again, God Save Us!
9.07.2009
New Mexico Politico on Twitter
A Memo From RTR
So with that, I urge you to keep visiting the new New Mexico Politico for continuing commentary on everything from politics to pop culture to wine and restaurant reviews: all through the eyes of America's youth. Enjoy! We hope to hear from you.
Born and raised in Las Cruces, NM, Ryan comes from a strong Democratic family that is active in New Mexico politics. He is a recent graduate from the University of New Mexico's Anderson School of Management. He plans to continue investing into the communities that made him who he is today and sharing his perspective on politics, pop culture and other curiosities. You may contact him at rtr@newmexicopolitico.org.
Giant
The following scene is gospel like for me.
Independent, competent men must take action for what is right because they are charged by God to do so.... when one takes this stand, he becomes a Giant.
Rudy, Rudy, Rudy!
9.06.2009
Support HR 1207
Kokesh for Congress
9.03.2009
TEA Party Movement
7.16.2009
The Nuevo
5.08.2009
The Michael Steele Paradox
By Ryan T. Robles
Barack Obam's election to the presidency last year affirmed that the US had turned a corner in both political thought, and in the way Americans receive their information. Republicans tried to play off their losses in the ’06 midterm election cycle as a fluke: a result of their unpopular war, or of several high profile Republican congressman scandals. The results of the ’08 election, however, were unequivocally Democratic, with the Blue Party winning vast majorities in both houses of congress as well as the presidency in a landslide (365 – 173 electoral votes, and a margin of 9.5 million votes). New and young voters registered as Democrats in droves, and millions turned out to vote for the political pop-culture icon of the twenty-first century.
Angry, disappointed and confused, the Grand ‘Ol Party turned against itself in a struggle for direction: neo-conservatives against libertarians; governors against legislators; McCain against Palin. Republicans needed someone who could lead their party in a much-needed new direction. With the Republican National Committee’s election for chairman on the horizon, what better time to elect (albeit grudgingly) a young, charismatic, technologically savvy, ahem… black leader? So it was that, amid controversy and much infighting, the former Lt. Governor from Maryland, Michael Steele was elected Chairman of the Republican National Committee.
As fate would have it, Michael Steele would become a point of contention in the GOP. There are a number of reasons for this. The first, and probably least obvious to the casual observer, is that his policies were at odds with many prominent Republicans.
In an interview with GQ, Steele said that he believed that abortion is “an individual choice,” that homosexuality “isn’t a choice,” (even going so far as to say that it’s as immutable as race) and that he sometimes votes… democratic. It goes without saying that these stances are more in line with the Democratic Party than with the GOP. Days after that article was published, however, he apologized to the Republican Party and promptly changed the info on his Facebook page. The fact that all these views diametrically opposed to the party platform passed unnoticed by the Republican National Committee during the election for chairman is not only astonishing… it’s false. Unfortunately, it seems the reason Steele’s political views were overlooked was directly related to his race and not (necessarily) in the bad way we’re accustomed to. More on that later.
There was another black candidate for chairman of the RNC, and his name was Ken Blackwell, the former Ohio Secretary of State. Blackwell has made a reputation for being one of the most conservative members of the RNC, by such action as opposing abortions for women whose lives are in danger due to their pregnancy, and his desire to keep Terri Schiavo “on life support for thirty years,” if it meant avoiding her death. What does this have to do with Michael Steele? That the RNC chose Steele, someone whose political views don’t reflect those of his party, over this man, who was an honorary co-chair of the Committee to Re-elect George W. Bush, seems to me to be premeditated. It’s not like Chairman Steele was an unknown entity. As he likes to say often, “there was a Michael Steele before there was a Barack Obama,” and that’s true: Steele was the highest elected black Republican in the country while President Obama was still in the Illinois State Senate. He was definitely known to Republicans.
So why elect someone to lead the party if you’re going to spend all of your time at odds with them? To compete with Democrats. It’s a move right out of the Grand ‘Ol Playbook: take a politician from the Democratic Party and market an outwardly similar Republican as a substitute. Remember the hubbub stirred up by John McCain’s selection of Sarah Palin as his Vice Presidential choice? Voters (generally) saw this as McCain’s pandering for votes from an apparently impressionable female electorate. Upon further review of her politics and professional demeanor, they quickly ruled out any possible similarities with the exception of their womanhood. Along that same vein, I believe Chairman Steele was selected because President Obama is black, and the Republican Party felt they needed a moderate black Republican to counter the successes Obama and the Democrats had gained over the course of the campaign.
Democratic gains in places like North Carolina and Virginia inspired the GOP to “reach beyond [their] comfort zones” for support, and the adoption of an “off the hook public relations offensive” toward “urban-suburban hip-hop settings.”
Although that may be the case, Chairman Steele’s leadership to do so has already been called into question from within the Republican Party. This second point (of contention) has been spearheaded by Katon Dawson, the runner-up for the chairman election, has even been rumored to be building support for a “no confidence vote” in Steele’s leadership. This movement has begun to pick up steam, as a recent article in the Wall Street Journal points at several prominent members raising concerns over Steele’s unwillingness to label President Obama as a “socialist,” instead of Steele’s preferred “collectivist.”
In a completely unrelated series of interviews and op-ed political programs, members of the Democratic Party as well as some talking heads in the media have taken to calling Rush Limbaugh, the Bill O’Reilly for the radio, the ‘defacto’ head of the GOP due to his vocal opposition to the Obama administration, and the fact that Republicans often take it upon themselves to apologize to Rush. Like the time when Steele apologized to Limbaugh for asserting that he, not Rush, was the head of the Republican Party; a ridiculous notion for the Chairman of the Republican National Committee to have.
In general, Republicans feel that “since… the Reagan Big Tent, the Republican Party has moved far to the right,” and that movement is increasingly representing a smaller, albeit very vocal, number of people. The fact that Michael Steele’s fairly moderate set of views has in and of itself called his leadership of the GOP into question – by the very people who elected him to lead in the first place – is crazy. That Steele is working to increase the base of the Republican Party doesn’t matter; he doesn’t resemble the Party as it now stands: far right and white.
The point is that the Republican Party has fundamentally changed. The 2008 election made it clear that Democrats’ inclusive, equitable platform appeals to many more Americans than has been the case in decades. Their ability to move legislation through both houses of Congress relatively unchallenged has only served to further anger the remnants of the GOP.
The Republicans seem to insist on reacting to the Democrats’ political innovation and leadership. Their repeated use of bait-and-switch techniques to win votes isn’t only insulting; it doesn’t truly reflect their candidates or the Party. Offering Sarah Palin as a substitute for Hillary Clinton is at best disingenuous, but at least she reflected that small, vocal part of the GOP I referred to earlier. Michael Steele, on the other hand, was presented to the American voter as a new direction for the party, the Grand ‘Ol Pledge to reach out to younger “hip hop” voters, and as a plea to minorities across the country to consider registering under their banner. Steele represents the Republican Party’s attempt to seize some of the buzz and recognition that Obama’s election enjoyed.
All the while, Steele seems to be completely oblivious to these fairly well known observations. Chairman Steele is an intelligent man; I’ve seen his interviews. How he doesn’t pick up on his Party’s motivation behind electing him as their Chair escapes me. Either he is a terrific actor or he is the most naïve person in the public eye today.
Fact of the matter is that the GOP is using his likeness (and thus, Obama’s likeness) to attract new registrants to the Party, while not only distancing themselves from Steele’s centrist stance but also publicly questioning his ability. Steele needs to read the writing on the wall for his sake: he no longer belongs to the group he represents. The RNC should be ashamed of itself for attempting to ride President Obama’s coattails in this manner; it’s not working with the voters, and it’s only serving to distance itself from the center more and more. Republicans need their leadership to show them the way now more than ever. Michael Steele was a surprisingly good choice to lead their Party, and I personally feel he would be a great leader of GOP… if only they took him seriously and decided to listen to him and not take all of their cues from the Democrats.
Born and raised in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Ryan comes from a strong Democratic family that is active in New Mexico Politics. He is a recent graduate from the University of New Mexico's Anderson School of Management. He plans to continue investing in the communities that made him who he is today and sharing his perspective on politics, pop culture, and other curiousities. Ryan is the newest columnist here at the New Mexico Politico. You may contact him at rtr@newmexicopolitico.org.
5.07.2009
Gov's Got Moves!
Well it looks we have our very own modern Pappy O'Daniel here in New Mexico. A recent video has surfaced on YouTube displaying our very own Governor Richardson displaying his Pappy like moves on stage with singer Jana Mashonee. I'd embed the videos here but it won't allow me to, check out the Gov dancing HERE. Only in New Mexico eh? ha
5.03.2009
Patton Pep Talk
For those of you that haven't seen this classic you better put Patton on your Netflix queue. This opening monologue always puts a smirk on my face and a fire in my belly.
My semester ends on Tuesday, I'll be back in New Mexico this week. Keep an eye out for new content and opinions on the NMP this summer.
Tomorrow I'll be introducing a new NMP columnist that offers a view from the left. Stay posted. Have a good week Politicos.
AHD
5.01.2009
4.30.2009
The Truth About Specter
Everything they say about Sen. Arlen Specter is true. I know this because Arlen Specter’s 1998 reelection campaign was my first full time job.
Staffers say he’s a bastard. True. But in a good way—like a drill sergeant. After working on that campaign, I was ready for anything. The Specter alumni network includes thousands who have gone through the political equivalent of Parris Island.
Conservatives say he’s not one of them. True. Let me say it more clearly than he did in his speech: Conservatives, Arlen Specter does not care about you. He does not like you, and he considered you a necessary evil in maintaining his Senate seat.
Pennsylvania liberals think he may be in for a hard-fought primary, but that’s unlikely. Democratic Gov. Rendell will ensure he gets a relatively safe ride through primary season. One of my jobs during the 1998 race was to advance different video shoots. Rendell, then Philadelphia’s mayor, was filmed for one of Specter’s TV spots, which later helped him easily beat Democratic state Rep. Bill Lloyd.
Don’t expect Pennsylvania’s junior senator, Bob Casey, to be an impediment. His dad, former Democratic Gov. Bob Casey, had a deep, lasting friendship with Specter, one that transcended politics. In 1998 another Casey son, Pat, ran for Congress, and I had strict instructions not to help his Republican opponent, Don Sherwood.
National Republicans are rejoicing at the opportunity to replace a liberal Republican with a conservative Republican. These are mostly people who either (a) prefer to be a minority party rather than governing majority or (b) do not understand Pennsylvania’s changing demographics, particularly in the four voter-rich swing counties outside of Philadelphia.
In the end, we all get what we want: RHINO-haters get to nominate a conservative. Democrats get a safe U.S. Senate seat. And Sen. Arlen Specter gets to add another six years to the nearly 30 he has served the public.
4.28.2009
Flat Tax, National Sales Tax from CATO
4.27.2009
Reads
Republican Struggle: http://www.politicsmagazine.com/magazine-issues/april-2009/whither-the-republican-party/
The End of Mainstream Media: http://www.texasinsider.org/?p=8260
Libertarian Tea Parties: http://www.fivethirtyeight.com/2009/04/were-tea-parties-really-libertarian.html
More GOP Struggle: http://voices.washingtonpost.com/thefix/parsing-the-polls/21-percent.html?wprss=thefix
Summer Time
This week is the commencement of final exams for me. I'll be finishing up on my studying and taking care of business before I head home in a week. I have various goals I need to accomplish this summer and I plan on expanding the NMP as well.
Those who follow me on Twitter may know that I've decided to review wine and cigars ( a little hobby of mine) in addition to writing about whatever intrigues this young mind. I'll probably write a couple restaurant and sight reviews since I will be traveling throughout the Land of Enchantment this summer. If any of you have suggestions of where to go and when let me know.
If I have time I'll post some articles or videos I find interesting that I would recommend reading. Wish me luck and see you all soon!
Paz-
AHD
4.25.2009
4.24.2009
Republican Governor 2010?
New Mexico knows these Republicans have expressed interest in running for Governor but do any of them really have a chance at beating a Democrat in 2010?
It depends.
The Republican party has significantly shifted to the right. While some are content with this move, the American people are not. For this reason staunchly conservative Steve Pearce would lose by epic proportions. I don't think the former Congressman is electable state wide because he only received 38% in the 2008 Senate race against Tom Udall. He does have a chance at beating Congressman Teague, although that race would ask Southern New Mexico to do a great deal of soul (identity) searching. I would also like to know if Pearce is running to genuinely fight for all New Mexicans or to further his time in the political game?
It's in the history books now, the Republican party took massive loses in 2006 and 2008. Was it bad timing or maybe the wrong message? Did too much power corrupt the conservative movement and move the party away from their Goldwater foundation (yes)? Was it bad leadership? Allen Weh was chairman of the NM GOP from 2004 to earlier this year. Besides losing the 2006 and 2008 elections what did Chairman Weh do? He failed to actively recruit more Hispanics, Catholics, young people and better candidates. He failed to make the GOP an efficient party capable of fighting the Democrat dictatorship of New Mexico. He also caused a high amount of internal friction which further weakened the minority party of NM. Will a partisan who made a long list of enemies with Democrats and fellow Republicans even have a chance at winning an election? Mr. Weh quit kidding yourself.
It was an ugly year for Heather Wilson in 2008. She had to pretend to be a right wing hack in the GOP primary against Pearce. The moderate northern Congresswoman never had a chance, that primary was all about who was more conservative. Things will be different in 2010, hopefully. The GOP needs to recognize that their ultra conservative darlings don't attract the moderate Republican and conservative Democrat vote. The right wingers also send Hispanic votes directly to the Democrats. 50% of registered NM voters are Democrats while only 32% are Republicans. This is a tough number to swallow for any Republican candidate but Wilson is a hard campaigner and a sobering moderate voice that can attract the 15% DTS voters. Democrat Denish would find Heather Wilson to be a real thorn in her...well you know. Two women running for Governor in New Mexico for the first time would be a fight to see. I think the seasoned vet could take the Lt. Gov right on.
Ironically, one problem Wilson could face in 2010 is that she is a seasoned Republican campaign vet, she is a well known good ol' bo...gal. The GOP may need a less familiar face with fresh ideas and a genuine intent to serve the people. Greg Zanetti is the only official candidate in the the Republican primary so far. Zanetti has a financial background and is a former brigadier general in the NM Army National Gaurd. Politicos close to me say that he's probably the most libertarian out of the GOP crowd. In a recent interview he gave to the Clovis News Journal he offered some quick takes on state issues. You can read his answers there but I think the General from Albuquerque has a clear head when approaching policy, not a bad start. Zanetti should take some pointers from Gov. Gary Johnson and DW Turner on how to win this thing.
Can he beat Denish? At this point he's an obvious long shot but it's still early.
In New Mexico anything can happen, I mean look at Ben Ray Lujan.
4.23.2009
GOP Initiative
I think the GOP is finally figuring out how to combat the Dem's. The GOP energy plan is open to all options, while the Democrats are closed them. The Dem's are so focused on their lofty idealism that they are blinded to what their plans will do to struggling American families. Why can't Dem's be open to all options for energy independence? The kickbacks from campaign contributions and support are beginning to kick in.
4.22.2009
Minutemen Attack McCain
I hope Sen. McCain kicks the (explicit) out of him.
4.21.2009
U.S. Drug Policy and More
4.20.2009
Texas Secession
4.16.2009
YouTube Symphony
I began exploring the world of classical music when I was in the 3rd grade. Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 was my first infatuation but I have grown to appreciate many epic composers. Bach is currently my all time favorite. I was amazed when I saw that YouTube produced a symphonic piece over the web. I wanted to share with you this grand international work of art.
4.15.2009
Don't Beat Around the 'Bush'
Charitable Obama and Cheap Biden
I think I've donated more to charity than VP Biden. The fact that the White House issued a press release justifying the Biden's obvious lack of charity is a problem. I hope VP & Mrs. Biden are more charitable this coming year.
4.07.2009
Shuttin' Detroit Down
4.06.2009
Holy Week
Greetings Politicos! In observance of Holy Week and my personal devotions I will not be blogging or paying much attention to the blogosphere. This is a solemn time that allows sinners like myself to examine ones conscious, soul, and life. It is important to reflect on ones personal existence and what our vocation in life is. We are all called to follow Christ and live the gospels. I leave you with this. "He that followeth me, walketh not in darkness, saith Our Lord. These are the words of Christ, by which we are admonished, that we must imitate His life and manners, if we would be truly enlightened, and delivered from all blindness of heart. Let it then be our chief study to meditate on the life of Jesus Christ." — Thomas à Kempis, The Imitation of Christ
4.03.2009
America Is An Exceptional Nation!
Rep. Ryan is a rising star in the GOP. He is a highly intelligent individual that presents his thoughts in an effective way. Ryan definitely has a future.
4.02.2009
Open Conference Committees
I am writing to encourage you to please sign HB 393 which would open conference committees to the public. The citizens of New Mexico deserve an open and fair government. Political corruption has an unfortunate tradition in New Mexico. As a student of political science and the legislative process I have learned that much of that corruption takes place in closed conference committees. You have already signed significant ethics legislation but more can be done. It would be an unfortunate disappointment if you decide to join the minuscule minority who oppose furthering the cause of opening government. I urge you to do the right thing and continue to support government transparency. Please join your constituents and support HB 393.
respectfully,
Aaron Henry Diaz, 21
Las Cruces, NM
The White House Sex Line?
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/first100days/2009/04/02/white-house-corrects-toll-free-number-mishap/
You're Playing Baseline Mumbo Jumbo
Why do Democrats seem confused about their own budget? Do they even understand what a tax cut is? Rep. Paul Ryan R-WI does an effective job in highlighting what the Democrats really are doing in their Budget. Here is Ryan speaking about the GOP budget.
Benny the Kid
Rep. Ben Ray Lujan had the "proud honor" of outlining energy initiatives in the Democratic budget. He was surrounded by Democratic leadership including Rep. Hoyer. Lujan looked nervous and sounded like a 'brown nose' for most of the time. I think he is trying too hard in playing the role of 'Mr. Lujan goes to Washington'. I personally think he's full of you know what but if he can actually bring those thousands of green jobs to New Mexico like he promised the more kudos to him.
Lujan has been pushing a green agenda in his rhetoric since the election. Unlike others I don't think this is a bad thing. If Lujan is serious he needs to cut down on the rhetoric and put a little more work into finding practical solutions . A green industry that provides quality jobs to New Mexicans is a smart investment for our future. Now the reality of making it happen is dismal only because too much ideology usually stops pragmatic solutions from developing. This is where most policy and initiatives fail in government.
'Benny the Kid' has a difficult task at hand and he can't do it alone. He needs to be open in his approach to energy and a green economy. There are many Republicans who support the initiatives but do so with more practicality and efficiency. I would rather see an experienced, pragmatic conservative in his seat but if Lujan can succeed New Mexico succeeds. In this case we all win.
4.01.2009
Did Democrats Even Read the Stimulus Bill?
No Answer again from Rep. Grayson D-FL...
What about other Democrats of the House? No, They rushed off the floor to hide in the dark lair of Non-Transparency!
Now please explain to me how this behavior is representative of CHANGE? I wonder if Teague, Heinrich, and Lujan read the bill or did they follow their party's referendum on 'legislative ignorance'?
Your Daily BS Report (From Time to Time)
Taxpayers money was never intended to be used so irresponsibly. Geithner sounds like a used car salesman selling a 'lemon' to an 78 year old woman.
3.31.2009
A Valuable Message
I know this video is well known by now but there may be a few of you who have not seen it. MEP Hannan articulates a transcendent message that all conservatives should be advocating. I wish we had more eloquent leaders like this in the GOP caucus.
A New Anthem
What a song. When I first heard this I knew it would immediately gain popularity. John Rich strikes a chord that all Americans can relate to. I predict this will be the new GOP anthem.
3.30.2009
Notre Dame, Obama, and Life
The past couple of weeks I have received numerous emails, Facebook messages, and community alerts notifying me about the "Notre Dame Scandal". Notre Dame's president Fr. John Jenkins C.S.C has invited President Obama to speak at the universities commencement ceremonies in May. I have numerous friends, classmates, professors, alumni, and fans of the university that have voiced their opposition or support for this invitation. I have never witnessed this level of activism at the University or in the community. At the center of the controversy is the big 'A' word... abortion.
Notre Dame, arguably being our nations flagship Catholic university, would only rise to such levels of polarization when this subject rears its ugly head. Obama being an advocate for pro-choice policy and Notre Dame as a Catholic institution being morally opposed to abortion would, of course, stir things up a bit. I have many liberal friends at ND who are in disbelief of the uproar it has caused. I would like to remind them that they would have been burning effigies of Bush if he had come to Our Ladies University. President Bush's social and foreign policy was so corrupt( in their eyes) that they would have probably done unspeakable atrocities to block a similar invitation had it been extended.
On the other hand my ultra conservative and religious friends are up in arms against the universities administration. They have for years felt the 'Catholic identity' of the university has been in decline and an invitation to the 'baby killing' darling of the left Obama would be the last straw. As a conservative and devout Catholic I slightly share more empathy for their argument but their extreme emotionalism is hypocritical because it mirrors the ridiculous attitudes of the radical liberals. Establishing reasonable dialogue with those who do not share ones perspective is a simple step to finding pragmatic solutions to the problems that veil our modern society. It is questionable whether it is appropriate or not to host this dialogue at commencement but a dialogue must be set by an institution like Notre Dame with liberal leaders of our nation.
I neither support or oppose Obama speaking at Notre Dame. While I oppose Obama and his misguided policies I believe the hollowed academic setting and Catholic identity of Notre Dame is a perfect place to debate the morality and constitutionality of abortion. What is more important than protesting Obama or protesting the protest is to pray for our leaders who are in the position to make life and death decisions for the born and unborn in this country.
Here is the petition in support of the invitation http://www.wesupportnotredame.org/
Here is the petition in opposition to the invitation http://notredamescandal.com/
Here is a prayer for our elected leaders and judges http://www.priestsforlife.org/prayers/courtsandjudges.htm
3.29.2009
Public Eductation and Teachers Unions
The Truth about Teachers Unions from Union Facts on Vimeo.
This subject which I know very little about interests me very much. I believe education should be the most important topic, subject, agenda for our elected officials to advocate for. Education is directly linked to our economy, national security, and a prosperous future. I found this video on teachers unions and thought it provided important perspective from teachers that may be overlooked in the ongoing unions and education debate.
3.28.2009
3.24.2009
A Real Class Act
Speaker Ben Lujan's juvenile tantrum calling Sen. John Arthur Smith a 'racist SOB' among other things wins him this years 'Real Class Act' award... sarcastically speaking of course. This type of behavior is not acceptable, especially from the Speaker of the House. Lujan sets a bad example for young people and the Hispanic community. I can understand some anger on Lujan's part but his public comments in the chamber degrades his position and the integrity of the round house. As a Hispanic and New Mexican I am ashamed of Lujan's actions and words. I hope this serves as a lesson to future politicos how not to conduct business in the roundhouse. Mr. Speaker you are a real class act.
3.12.2009
The Tragedy of King Bill
In elementary school I found myself browsing the encyclopedia for historical figures, curious of who they were and what act landed them in the encyclopedia. I grew fond of the classical tragedies found in Greek and Roman mythology as well. The rise and fall of conquerors, empires, heroes, and antagonists gave me a glimpse of the real political condition of our world. I realized the greatest of men can stumble and the worst of men can rise but both eventually meet their own mortality, in death or while alive.
I was always interested in the story of Bill Richardson. My grandfather spoke highly of him when he was then Congressman Richardson (I was raised a conservative Democrat). In 2009 grandpa, like many New Mexicans, is not pleased with the Governor and they have a multitude of reasons not to be. I am no supporter of King Bill but I remain interested in the public and private Bill Richardson.
Most of the political and business circles of New Mexico are aware of the hearsay rumors, gossip, and 'platicar' describing Richardson's not so flattering private character. The Richardson chatter over the years never proved to be true or false but the Governors recent political turmoil has laid some credence to the negative perception that many hold of him. Santa Fe writer Sally Denton compiles a short but accurate account of the rise and fall of Bill Richardson at The Daily Beast today.
While her article offers no significant news to New Mexico, Denton offers to the nation
” For the man whose credo is “it's about doing what's right, no matter where, or for whom,” the tailspin from national limelight to political disgrace carries a sad poignancy for the people of New Mexico."Richardson's long tenure in public service and self promotion will assuredly land him in the encyclopedias. His story, like many before him, will serve as another reminder of what not to do while serving the people. His 'political disgrace' is still developing but it looks as if New Mexico may be the final resting place of Bill Richardson's political career.
Photo by Joe Raedle/ Getty Images
3.05.2009
Keynesian Economics 101
As an economics major I find myself following the current stimulus and economic mess more closely than most twenty one year old college students. I am fascinated by the naivety of government officials when it comes to spending. Government can't fix a problem when they are the problem. I hope this video brings some clarity to fellow politicos who may not understand why Keynesian economics (Obama's and even Bush's stimulus) is misleading and simply wrong.
2.27.2009
2.24.2009
2.20.2009
The Chicago Tea Party
Rick Santelli is saying what everyone else is thinking! The government is rewarding bad behavior. Obama's administration (hell even Bush's) is so so wrong on this stimulus bill. It is time to for real American's who believe in personal liberty, responsibility, and capitalism to take a stance against this crap coming out of Washington.
Looking Forward to This!
Quentin Tarantino does it again. I am fan of his raw, artistic work. Thought some of you would be excited too.
2.02.2009
Bienvenidos Mr. Chairman
The New Mexico GOP congratulates newly elected Chairman Steele in a press release from the weekend.
“The Republican Party of New Mexico offers its sincere congratulations to Michael Steele as he takes over leadership of the Republican Party,” said New Mexico Republican Party Chairman Harvey E. Yates, Jr. “There was great excitement among the party faithful today because they are hopeful about the opportunities before us, and so am I. Chairman Steele is committed to growing this great Party and I am looking forward to working with him in that endeavor. We look forward also to Michael Steele’s next visit to New Mexico.”New Mexico party chair Harvey Yates sounds optimistic. I hope he actively works with the RNC on developing a better grassroots network, technology, and minority outreach. It is time the GOP makes a serious effort in courting minority voters. The Hispanic vote here in New Mexico is growing and the NM GOP has an embarrassing history with them. The GOP has a tumultuous task at hand but with the election of Steele I am confident a new era is emerging.
1.30.2009
Catholic Vote Pro-Life Ad
Refreshing ad coming from the good people at Catholic Vote. The NFL and NBC didn't think so. NBC and the NFL are not interested in advertisements involving ‘political advocacy or issues.’ I find this unfortunate and should be a telling sign of our popular culture. Not that I have a problem with other commercials of sparsely clothed women promoting American consumerism but ads of significance such as this one should be also be aired.
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