Election 2008 tags 'Nuff Said | Blogs / LJWorld.com

Posts tagged with Election 2008

Posted by Virginia Rigney on November 4, 2008 at 7:25 a.m.

permalink

This One’s For Toot

I was what you would call an idealistic child. I couldn't read about historical events without dreaming about what it would be like to have been there; and in some cases which side I'd be on. This election feels like something big; something that could change the course of history. I am a grandmother now and I will not squander my chance to be a part of this by staying home and watching it unfold on CNN. I will be in Missouri today helping with GOTV efforts there. It is a gesture small in comparison to what others have done but it's the least I can do for Toot and others like her who sacrifice selflessly so that their loved ones can realize their dreams.Sadly, Barack Obama's grandmother, Toot, didn't make it to election day to find out whether her beloved grandson would become the next President of the United States of America. We can join with her spirit and like "The Little Engine That Could" we can help push that mighty train over the mountain top toward a righteous victory. Yes We Can!

Reply 6 comments from Virginia Rigney

Posted by Virginia Rigney on September 13, 2008 at 11:27 a.m.

permalink

The Politics of Lipstick

This blog is in response to this article in the New York Times. http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/13/us/politics/13mccain.html?hp "Politics is a game," I hear some say. A game it is; albeit one with potentially grave consequences. We are, after all choosing the next leader of the free world. It comes as no surprise to those of us who have been around for awhile that the negative rhetoric of the presidential campaign has intensified as we head into Election Day. What has changed, at least for me is the new lows to which candidates are willing to stoop.According to polls, few among us are happy with the job that George Bush has done. Yet according to polls, voters are currently favoring the Republican candidate who embraces the same policies as George Bush. In addition, John McCain is using the same unethical political tactics, courtesy of the same people who wanted George Bush in office.With the economy in the tank; the quagmire in the Middle East growing increasingly complicated; and Americans in increasing numbers concerned about healthcare, jobs, education and retirement; how can this be?In this recent article, Professor of Cognitive Science and Linguistics, George Lakoff says that rather than choosing a leader based on the issues that affect us, Americans vote on these characteristics, "Values; Authenticity; Communication and connection; Trust; and Identity." He says that "McCain and Palin are being marketed as American icons: the war hero and the ideal mom." Lakoff advises Obama to drop his thoughtful discussion of the issues in favor of an identity campaign in order to regain his favor with voters.My dilemma is this: if the candidates don't run on the issues how are we, the voters, to know where they stand?I believe that meaningful change comes from the bottom up rather than the top down. Perhaps it is time we voters change the rules of this game called politics and consequently take our government and our country back. That would take responsibility on the part of voters to check for accuracy in advertising and statements by the candidates. My Grandson suggests the candidates be connected to lie detectors during debates. Hopefully, such drastic measures won't be necessary for voters to see the pig for the lipstick.

Reply 15 comments from Tangential_reasoners_anonymous

and 2 others

Posted by Virginia Rigney on August 26, 2008 at 10:53 p.m.

permalink

H-I-L-L-A-R-Y

As a 53 year-old woman and an admitted feminist, I watched in awe tonight as Hillary Clinton delivered the speech of her life. Having spent a lifetime in the service of others and working for the greater good, I was one with Hillary as she selflessly passed the torch to Barack Obama and the younger generation. Most true Democrats had no doubt that she would do so - and do so in style - in spite of the speculation by "ratings greedy" pundits who have spent the last several days perpetuating the "rift" between Hillary supporters and Obama supporters. You see, Hillary is no fool. Like most progressives and most women, her daughter's interests and your daughter's interests come before hers and ours.Tonight, Hillary put on her big girl panties and took one for the future of our country. I, for one, intend to follow suit.

Reply 65 comments from Alia Ahmed

and 23 others

Posted by Virginia Rigney on February 4, 2008 at 2:40 p.m.

permalink

On The Fence

It is Monday before Super Tuesday and I'm waffling. Me an admitted feminist! It's not that I don't think that Hillary is right for the job. In spite of the rhetoric from those who oppose her; she is qualified and ready to lead. And I believe that we desperately need a woman president. Not just to break the glass ceiling. I believe we need more women in power to balance out the confrontational nature of our current male leaders.So why am I waffling? I am inspired by Obama's ability to engage young voters. The enthusiasm of these young people gives me hope that America can be great again. For the first time in awhile I feel good about handing over the reigns to the younger generation.Lately it seemed that people had forgotten that our government is of the people, for the people, by the people. Obama seems to embrace this. Perhaps that is why so many youth and others are becoming engaged in the political process this election.What do you think?

Reply 7 comments from Virginia Rigney