Tony Blair Accepts WMDs Not in Iraq
"I have to accept that we have not found them, that we may not find them."
--Tony Blair to a committee of lawmakers on Tuesday
I recall Blair's words before the war on Iraq...
"It [the intelligence service] concludes that Iraq has chemical and biological weapons, that Saddam has continued to produce them, that he has existing and active military plans for the use of chemical and biological weapons, which could be activated within 45 minutes, including against his own Shia population; and that he is actively trying to acquire nuclear weapons capability..."
--September 24, 2002 House of Commons
I think of poor Dr. Kelly...
Internet muse.
Daring, bold, never sold. My daily weblog of politics, humor, philosophy...and a constant and nagging reminder of the existence of universal love....
Tuesday, July 06, 2004
The Choice: John Edwards!
The Choice: John Edwards!
It's Kerry/Edwards...the best choice has been made
The email:
Dear Friend,
In just a few minutes, I will announce that Senator John Edwards will join me as my running-mate on the Democratic ticket as a candidate for vice president of the United States. Teresa and I could not be more excited that John and Elizabeth Edwards will be our partners in our journey to make America stronger at home and respected in the world.
You are the heart and soul of our campaign. You've shattered records and expectations every step of the way. Every time someone said you couldn't do it, you proved them wrong. Because of your incredible grassroots energy and commitment, I wanted to make the first official announcement of my decision to you -- more than one million online supporters at johnkerry.com.
I want you to know why I'm excited about running for president with John Edwards by my side. John understands and defends the values of America. He has shown courage and conviction as a champion for middle class Americans and those struggling to reach the middle class. In the Senate, he worked to reform our intelligence, to combat bioterrorism, and keep our military strong. John reaches across party lines and speaks to the heart of America -- hope and optimism. Throughout his own campaign for President, John spoke about the great divide in this country -- the "Two Americas" -- that exist between those who are doing well today and those that are struggling to make it from day to day. And I am so proud that we're going to build one America together.
In the next 120 days and in the administration that follows, John Edwards and I will be fighting for the America we love. We'll be fighting to give the middle class a voice by providing good paying jobs and affordable health care. We'll be fighting to make America energy independent. We'll be fighting to build a strong military and lead strong alliances, so young Americans are never put in harm's way because we insisted on going it alone.
I can't tell you how proud I am to have John Edwards on my team, or how eager I am for the day this fall when he stands up for our vision and goes toe-to-toe with Dick Cheney.
This is the most important election of our lifetime, and a defining moment in our history. With you by our side every day of this campaign, John and I will lead the most spirited presidential campaign America has ever seen and fight to lead our nation in a new and better direction.
Thank you,
Reuters
~~~~~~~~~~~~
The New York Post Messes Up
How Much More Wrong Could They Possibly Have Gotten it?
It's Kerry/Edwards...the best choice has been made
The email:
Dear Friend,
In just a few minutes, I will announce that Senator John Edwards will join me as my running-mate on the Democratic ticket as a candidate for vice president of the United States. Teresa and I could not be more excited that John and Elizabeth Edwards will be our partners in our journey to make America stronger at home and respected in the world.
You are the heart and soul of our campaign. You've shattered records and expectations every step of the way. Every time someone said you couldn't do it, you proved them wrong. Because of your incredible grassroots energy and commitment, I wanted to make the first official announcement of my decision to you -- more than one million online supporters at johnkerry.com.
I want you to know why I'm excited about running for president with John Edwards by my side. John understands and defends the values of America. He has shown courage and conviction as a champion for middle class Americans and those struggling to reach the middle class. In the Senate, he worked to reform our intelligence, to combat bioterrorism, and keep our military strong. John reaches across party lines and speaks to the heart of America -- hope and optimism. Throughout his own campaign for President, John spoke about the great divide in this country -- the "Two Americas" -- that exist between those who are doing well today and those that are struggling to make it from day to day. And I am so proud that we're going to build one America together.
In the next 120 days and in the administration that follows, John Edwards and I will be fighting for the America we love. We'll be fighting to give the middle class a voice by providing good paying jobs and affordable health care. We'll be fighting to make America energy independent. We'll be fighting to build a strong military and lead strong alliances, so young Americans are never put in harm's way because we insisted on going it alone.
I can't tell you how proud I am to have John Edwards on my team, or how eager I am for the day this fall when he stands up for our vision and goes toe-to-toe with Dick Cheney.
This is the most important election of our lifetime, and a defining moment in our history. With you by our side every day of this campaign, John and I will lead the most spirited presidential campaign America has ever seen and fight to lead our nation in a new and better direction.
Thank you,
Reuters
~~~~~~~~~~~~
The New York Post Messes Up
How Much More Wrong Could They Possibly Have Gotten it?
Saturday, July 03, 2004
Patrick's Fate - 848
Patrick's Fate - 848
A Tribute to Patrick McCaffrey
He's just a number to the ones
Who sent beloved daughters and sons
To a land they ne'er needed be
A land of sadness 'cross the sea
A California girl and boy
Will not again possess the joy
To see a colored glaring sky
On this or any Fourth of July
While holding father's loving hand
He was lost to them upon the sand
Caring for friends until the last
When swept away by bullets' blast
His mother cries unto the day
T'was Bush who took her boy away
To only have his sacrifice hid
With no lens to spy his coffin lid
Heed mother's warning before too late
Imagine Patrick's number--848
And all the troops who came before
To die in Bush's needless war.
--Jude
___________________________
Read Patrick's story:
The son who came home for the Fourth of July
Last week Nadia McCaffrey defied President Bush by allowing the media to view the coffin of her son, Patrick, killed in action in Iraq. Writer Andrew Buncombe was invited to attend his funeral in Tracy, California.
A Tribute to Patrick McCaffrey
He's just a number to the ones
Who sent beloved daughters and sons
To a land they ne'er needed be
A land of sadness 'cross the sea
A California girl and boy
Will not again possess the joy
To see a colored glaring sky
On this or any Fourth of July
While holding father's loving hand
He was lost to them upon the sand
Caring for friends until the last
When swept away by bullets' blast
His mother cries unto the day
T'was Bush who took her boy away
To only have his sacrifice hid
With no lens to spy his coffin lid
Heed mother's warning before too late
Imagine Patrick's number--848
And all the troops who came before
To die in Bush's needless war.
--Jude
___________________________
Read Patrick's story:
The son who came home for the Fourth of July
Last week Nadia McCaffrey defied President Bush by allowing the media to view the coffin of her son, Patrick, killed in action in Iraq. Writer Andrew Buncombe was invited to attend his funeral in Tracy, California.
Friday, July 02, 2004
Charlotte "Fahrenheit 9-11" party Updated
Charlotte NC MoveOn.org-Fahrenheit 9/11 party
The fine people of Charlotte, NC were very welcoming to this Central New Yorker Monday night at one of the 3000+ MoveOn.org-Fahrenheit 9/11 house parties across the nation. It was very well-attended (I took some photos which will I'll post when available).
UPDATE: Photo here:
The party was held at the Evening Muse in the lovely NODA section of Charlotte. It was hosted by manager Lea Pritchard and her fiancee, who was a spirited emcee. I was happy to have had the opportunity to meet Jane Whitley, secretary of the Mecklenburg County Democratic Party and to spend time with the talented blogger Anonymoses.
There were some memorable moments, such as the first hour of the event, where the people in the interesting crowd were given free time to make any comments and suggestions they desired. At about 8pm, the teleconference began. Michael Moore seemed very animated..thrilled to see that his movie was being appreciated by people from many segments of the political spectrum...not just preaching to the "choir". He recalled one woman in a Florida theater in tears after the movie ended. She's witnessed some things she hadn't before seen in the major media. Mr. Moore felt that the mainstream media was culpable for their failure to fully investigate and/or tell the whole story during the lead-up to the Iraq war. Mr. Moore also conjured up the image of a theater crowd in Greensboro NC giving an extended standing ovation to a blank screen long after the final credits had rolled.
By the way, the food at the Charlotte event was outstanding! Thanks to all who contributed their culinary talents.
I am thoroughly enjoying the Anais Mitchell CD I won (for having come the farthest-from Syracuse,NY-to attend the party).
You can hear the audio of Michael Moore's teleconference HERE.
The fine people of Charlotte, NC were very welcoming to this Central New Yorker Monday night at one of the 3000+ MoveOn.org-Fahrenheit 9/11 house parties across the nation. It was very well-attended (I took some photos which will I'll post when available).
UPDATE: Photo here:
The party was held at the Evening Muse in the lovely NODA section of Charlotte. It was hosted by manager Lea Pritchard and her fiancee, who was a spirited emcee. I was happy to have had the opportunity to meet Jane Whitley, secretary of the Mecklenburg County Democratic Party and to spend time with the talented blogger Anonymoses.
There were some memorable moments, such as the first hour of the event, where the people in the interesting crowd were given free time to make any comments and suggestions they desired. At about 8pm, the teleconference began. Michael Moore seemed very animated..thrilled to see that his movie was being appreciated by people from many segments of the political spectrum...not just preaching to the "choir". He recalled one woman in a Florida theater in tears after the movie ended. She's witnessed some things she hadn't before seen in the major media. Mr. Moore felt that the mainstream media was culpable for their failure to fully investigate and/or tell the whole story during the lead-up to the Iraq war. Mr. Moore also conjured up the image of a theater crowd in Greensboro NC giving an extended standing ovation to a blank screen long after the final credits had rolled.
By the way, the food at the Charlotte event was outstanding! Thanks to all who contributed their culinary talents.
I am thoroughly enjoying the Anais Mitchell CD I won (for having come the farthest-from Syracuse,NY-to attend the party).
You can hear the audio of Michael Moore's teleconference HERE.
On Iraq: We must ask ourselves..
On Iraq: We must ask ourselves...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chilling:
"We are seeing a fact-free, faith-based approach to Middle East policymaking."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Why did the Bush administration ignore a wide range of Middle East experts who warned against the dangers of an occupation of Iraq, (including some experts who supported the war)?
Why has the Bush administration been plagued by the stifling environment of groupthink, especially in the office of the Secretary of Defense?
See this statement by Rashid Khalidi at a talk on May 27 at UCLA for the Center for Near Eastern Studies.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chilling:
"We are seeing a fact-free, faith-based approach to Middle East policymaking."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Why did the Bush administration ignore a wide range of Middle East experts who warned against the dangers of an occupation of Iraq, (including some experts who supported the war)?
Why has the Bush administration been plagued by the stifling environment of groupthink, especially in the office of the Secretary of Defense?
See this statement by Rashid Khalidi at a talk on May 27 at UCLA for the Center for Near Eastern Studies.
Juan Cole-"The New and Improved Iraq"
Juan Cole-"The New and Improved Iraq"
From: In These Times
I highly recommend that you read this essay. Professor Cole makes the all-important point that further American (and the Allawi-interim government) attempts to shape the political scene in Iraq by trying to disqualify candidates on various pretexts will likely prolong the various insurgencies in the country.
From: In These Times
I highly recommend that you read this essay. Professor Cole makes the all-important point that further American (and the Allawi-interim government) attempts to shape the political scene in Iraq by trying to disqualify candidates on various pretexts will likely prolong the various insurgencies in the country.
Plame Indictments Rumored to Be Coming; 'Imperial Hubris' author "outed"
Plame Indictments Rumored to Be Coming Soon; 'Imperial Hubris' author "outed"
Those in the Bush administration (the same ones who former U.S. envoy Joseph Wilson recently derided as "un-American" and "punks") may find fresh indictments awaiting them for leaking to the media the name of Wilson's CIA-wife. I hear it may happen quite soon.
Stay tuned.
Somewhat related to the Plame outing, the Boston Phoenix has "outed" "Imperial Hubris" author Anonymous.
According to the Phoenix, this outing isn't posing a danger to Anonymous, who is actually CIA officer Michael Scheuer. They say "..at issue here is not just the book’s content, but why Anonymous is anonymous. After all, as the Times and others have reported, his situation is nothing like that of Valerie Plame, a covert operative whose ability to work active overseas cases was undermined when someone in the White House blew her cover to journalist Robert Novak in an apparent payback for an inconvenient weapons-of-mass-destruction intelligence report by her husband, Joseph Wilson. Anonymous, on the other hand, is, by the CIA’s own admission, a Langley-bound analyst whose identity has never required secrecy..."
Those in the Bush administration (the same ones who former U.S. envoy Joseph Wilson recently derided as "un-American" and "punks") may find fresh indictments awaiting them for leaking to the media the name of Wilson's CIA-wife. I hear it may happen quite soon.
Stay tuned.
Somewhat related to the Plame outing, the Boston Phoenix has "outed" "Imperial Hubris" author Anonymous.
According to the Phoenix, this outing isn't posing a danger to Anonymous, who is actually CIA officer Michael Scheuer. They say "..at issue here is not just the book’s content, but why Anonymous is anonymous. After all, as the Times and others have reported, his situation is nothing like that of Valerie Plame, a covert operative whose ability to work active overseas cases was undermined when someone in the White House blew her cover to journalist Robert Novak in an apparent payback for an inconvenient weapons-of-mass-destruction intelligence report by her husband, Joseph Wilson. Anonymous, on the other hand, is, by the CIA’s own admission, a Langley-bound analyst whose identity has never required secrecy..."
Thursday, July 01, 2004
Erskine Bowles Releases Homeland Security Plan
Erskine Bowles Releases Homeland Security Plan
I had the fine opportunity to meet Democratic Senatorial candidate Erskine Bowles in Charlotte, N.C. this morning after hearing him release his new Homeland Security plan.
Called "Protect America First", the plan is designed to protect the nation's most vulnerable potential targets, such as ports, nuclear facilities and chemical plants. It would provide police, firefighters and emergency personnel with the resources to respond to a terrorist threat. The plan also would secure U.S. borders to prevent future attacks and limit shipments of dangerous materials.
I had the fine opportunity to meet Democratic Senatorial candidate Erskine Bowles in Charlotte, N.C. this morning after hearing him release his new Homeland Security plan.
Called "Protect America First", the plan is designed to protect the nation's most vulnerable potential targets, such as ports, nuclear facilities and chemical plants. It would provide police, firefighters and emergency personnel with the resources to respond to a terrorist threat. The plan also would secure U.S. borders to prevent future attacks and limit shipments of dangerous materials.
My Money's on John Edwards for Kerry VP
My Money's on John Edwards for Kerry VP
With predictions that an announcement will be made about John Kerry's choice for running mate within a week, I'm betting big on current North Carolina Senator John Edwards. John Kerry won't be able to lose with John Edwards as his running mate. The more I talk to the average voter, the more I realize this man, Senator Edwards, is the VP candidate with the name-recognition, the respect, and the charisma it will take for the Democrats to achieve a far more certain victory in November. I think John Kerry would be absolutely insane NOT to choose John Edwards as his running mate.
Spirits will certainly be high in Raleigh next week if the announcement is made that Edwards is 'the chosen one'.
At NPR, Ken Rudin agrees with me. Mr. Rudin says, "..unlike many other VP selections over the years, voters around the country have seen Edwards in action -- and apparently they like what they see."
It only makes sense that the voters are the ones to whom Kerry should be listening. If he's truly listening, there's no doubt...it'll be John Edwards.
With predictions that an announcement will be made about John Kerry's choice for running mate within a week, I'm betting big on current North Carolina Senator John Edwards. John Kerry won't be able to lose with John Edwards as his running mate. The more I talk to the average voter, the more I realize this man, Senator Edwards, is the VP candidate with the name-recognition, the respect, and the charisma it will take for the Democrats to achieve a far more certain victory in November. I think John Kerry would be absolutely insane NOT to choose John Edwards as his running mate.
Spirits will certainly be high in Raleigh next week if the announcement is made that Edwards is 'the chosen one'.
At NPR, Ken Rudin agrees with me. Mr. Rudin says, "..unlike many other VP selections over the years, voters around the country have seen Edwards in action -- and apparently they like what they see."
It only makes sense that the voters are the ones to whom Kerry should be listening. If he's truly listening, there's no doubt...it'll be John Edwards.
Poem- If God Invited You to a Party
If God Invited You
to a Party
If God
Invited you to a party
And said,
"Everyone
In the ballroom tonight
Will be my special
Guest,"
How would you then treat them
When you
Arrived?
Indeed, indeed!
And Hafiz knows
There is no one in this world
Who
Is not upon
His Jeweled Dance
Floor.
From The Gift, Poems by Hafiz, translations by Daniel Ladinsky
The Biggest Bush Campaign Mistake To Date
The Biggest Bush Campaign Mistake To Date
The biggest campaign mistake the Bush administration has made to date was to have pissed off a guy like Howard Stern.
Can you say "8 to 10 million loyal listeners" (one third of them Independents?)
Hell hath no fury like this shock-jock scorned.
The biggest campaign mistake the Bush administration has made to date was to have pissed off a guy like Howard Stern.
Can you say "8 to 10 million loyal listeners" (one third of them Independents?)
Hell hath no fury like this shock-jock scorned.
Wednesday, June 30, 2004
Adam Mordecai on Iraq and VP Speculation
Adam Mordecai on Iraq and VP Speculation
Adam Mordecai has some really good commentary at his Change For America blog today.
The first is "Why Rumsfeld Must Go (Reason 4593 )" which is related to the Army's recent calling forth of 5600 soldiers in the Individual Ready Reserve. Adam considers the topic of unilateralism in Iraq and discusses why he believes (as I believe) it never has and is never going to work.
In another post, Adam tosses around and rips apart the Drudge headline-du-jour (a la CAPS) about 'Hillary-as-VP' speculation.
I was amused the title of Adam's post about the failure of the fine folks of Missouri to wholeheartedly support Dick Gephardt as VP candidate ("Mommy Doesn't Love Me").
Adam Mordecai has some really good commentary at his Change For America blog today.
The first is "Why Rumsfeld Must Go (Reason 4593 )" which is related to the Army's recent calling forth of 5600 soldiers in the Individual Ready Reserve. Adam considers the topic of unilateralism in Iraq and discusses why he believes (as I believe) it never has and is never going to work.
In another post, Adam tosses around and rips apart the Drudge headline-du-jour (a la CAPS) about 'Hillary-as-VP' speculation.
I was amused the title of Adam's post about the failure of the fine folks of Missouri to wholeheartedly support Dick Gephardt as VP candidate ("Mommy Doesn't Love Me").
"OUTFOXED"-New Documentary Takes on FOX Distortions
OUTFOXED: New Documentary Takes On FOX Distortions
I've been waiting for a documentary like this to be made...and here it is!
Sign up to host or attend a MoveOn.org house party on July 18th to see this new documentary.
For years, Fox News has been distorting the facts, covering for President Bush, and bashing groups like MoveOn. Now "Uncovered" director Robert Greenwald -- working with a group of Fox-monitoring MoveOn members -- has put together a documentary film that exposes Fox for what it is: partisan spin, not news.
We're using this movie to launch an organizing campaign with Common Cause and other great groups to "out" Fox News -- making sure everyone in the country knows the network is stumping for the Republican agenda.
Be among the first to see this new movie, help others see it, and take on Fox by hosting an Outfoxed house party on Sunday evening, July 18th. Sign up at:
http://action.moveon.org/outfoxed/newmeeting.html
On Sunday, July 18th, we'll get together to see the compelling evidence of Fox's partisanship presented in the Outfoxed film. Then we'll all join an interactive coast-to-coast conference call with Al Franken and director Robert Greenwald, to plan out how we'll take on Fox and take back our media.
I've been waiting for a documentary like this to be made...and here it is!
Sign up to host or attend a MoveOn.org house party on July 18th to see this new documentary.
For years, Fox News has been distorting the facts, covering for President Bush, and bashing groups like MoveOn. Now "Uncovered" director Robert Greenwald -- working with a group of Fox-monitoring MoveOn members -- has put together a documentary film that exposes Fox for what it is: partisan spin, not news.
We're using this movie to launch an organizing campaign with Common Cause and other great groups to "out" Fox News -- making sure everyone in the country knows the network is stumping for the Republican agenda.
Be among the first to see this new movie, help others see it, and take on Fox by hosting an Outfoxed house party on Sunday evening, July 18th. Sign up at:
http://action.moveon.org/outfoxed/newmeeting.html
On Sunday, July 18th, we'll get together to see the compelling evidence of Fox's partisanship presented in the Outfoxed film. Then we'll all join an interactive coast-to-coast conference call with Al Franken and director Robert Greenwald, to plan out how we'll take on Fox and take back our media.
No excuse for deer-in-headlights Bush 9/11
No excuse for deer-in-the-headlights Bush on 9/11
Fahrenheit 9/11 shows us what all the misleading advertising in the world couldn't cover up: When faced with a real emergency, George W. Bush, with nobody to tell him what to say or how to act, simply froze. For almost seven minutes on September 11, America was paying a $400,000 yearly salary to an ice sculpture. I dare any pundit, any handler, anybody who supports this loser to explain this away.
The Angry Liberal has written an outstanding piece comparing and contrasting Bush's seven stunned minutes of dazed inaction and confused indecisiveness on the morning of 9/11 with "the Stillson moment" from the movie (and book) The Dead Zone.
Fahrenheit 9/11 shows us what all the misleading advertising in the world couldn't cover up: When faced with a real emergency, George W. Bush, with nobody to tell him what to say or how to act, simply froze. For almost seven minutes on September 11, America was paying a $400,000 yearly salary to an ice sculpture. I dare any pundit, any handler, anybody who supports this loser to explain this away.
The Angry Liberal has written an outstanding piece comparing and contrasting Bush's seven stunned minutes of dazed inaction and confused indecisiveness on the morning of 9/11 with "the Stillson moment" from the movie (and book) The Dead Zone.
Social Science, the Media, and 9/11
Social Science, Reuters, and 9/11
The identification of persistent patterns in the semantic structures of different sources, which are typically beyond the scope of individual observation, opens the way for a new understanding of the manner in which we are affected by institutions that surround us in our daily lives.
This particular study was conducted by a panel of social scientists utilizing CRA (a bundle of techniques which transforms the structure of natural occurring text into a semantic). The patterns used stemmed from actual Reuters news tickers from the period between 9/11 and November 15, 2001. I found it to be fascinating.
The study claims:
Many factors affect how news is produced and which of these reach a final audience; governments have to present themselves in favorable ways to maintain trust and confidence in their effectiveness. This is especially true in times of crisis (such as 9/11). Timing and coordinated presentation are one of the ways to achieve this, and non-disclosure and classification of certain information are another. News companies are intermediaries that collect and disseminate information to clients and customers. These organizations are by no means completely objective and do not just simply provide the facts. Maintaining successful customer relationships also means the need for news organizations to adapt to customer preferences; certain news stories might be less desirable than others while yet other slants may be more preferred or easier to communicate. Mass communication cannot be expected to be independent of what people like to hear and what editors (or owners) want to present.
Especially in times of significant events like September 11, news reports can be expected to reflect a complicated mixture of many influences. Until now empirical social science has had difficulty coping with the complexities of mass communication. The sheer amount of information transmitted in today?s system of mass communications has until very recently been completely out of reach of the analytical abilities of most social scientists. Modern computers, powerful analytical tools, advances in network analysis and recent developments in visualization techniques together with advances in applications of natural language computing technology, like CRA, promise to change all this.
I found it interesting that, given the foreign policy implications of 9/11, the data suggested that Colin Powell has played less of a role then might be expected given his formal status as the President's chief foreign policy advisor and that Rumsfeld played more of a role than might be expected given his formal status as Secretary of Defense, at least as depicted in Reuters news tickers over the period analyzed. What that means in terms of the workings of the White House inner circle is still open to interpretation. However, this does stand in stark contrast to earlier administrations and U.S. military interventions where, for example, Secretary of State Albright in the former Clinton Administration spearheaded the war in Kosovo.
Given the fact that Colin Powell does not plan to return as Bush's Secretary of State (should Bush be re-elected), I believe this scientific information may lead us to a further understanding of some of his reasons and help us to interpret the White House role.
The identification of persistent patterns in the semantic structures of different sources, which are typically beyond the scope of individual observation, opens the way for a new understanding of the manner in which we are affected by institutions that surround us in our daily lives.
This particular study was conducted by a panel of social scientists utilizing CRA (a bundle of techniques which transforms the structure of natural occurring text into a semantic). The patterns used stemmed from actual Reuters news tickers from the period between 9/11 and November 15, 2001. I found it to be fascinating.
The study claims:
Many factors affect how news is produced and which of these reach a final audience; governments have to present themselves in favorable ways to maintain trust and confidence in their effectiveness. This is especially true in times of crisis (such as 9/11). Timing and coordinated presentation are one of the ways to achieve this, and non-disclosure and classification of certain information are another. News companies are intermediaries that collect and disseminate information to clients and customers. These organizations are by no means completely objective and do not just simply provide the facts. Maintaining successful customer relationships also means the need for news organizations to adapt to customer preferences; certain news stories might be less desirable than others while yet other slants may be more preferred or easier to communicate. Mass communication cannot be expected to be independent of what people like to hear and what editors (or owners) want to present.
Especially in times of significant events like September 11, news reports can be expected to reflect a complicated mixture of many influences. Until now empirical social science has had difficulty coping with the complexities of mass communication. The sheer amount of information transmitted in today?s system of mass communications has until very recently been completely out of reach of the analytical abilities of most social scientists. Modern computers, powerful analytical tools, advances in network analysis and recent developments in visualization techniques together with advances in applications of natural language computing technology, like CRA, promise to change all this.
I found it interesting that, given the foreign policy implications of 9/11, the data suggested that Colin Powell has played less of a role then might be expected given his formal status as the President's chief foreign policy advisor and that Rumsfeld played more of a role than might be expected given his formal status as Secretary of Defense, at least as depicted in Reuters news tickers over the period analyzed. What that means in terms of the workings of the White House inner circle is still open to interpretation. However, this does stand in stark contrast to earlier administrations and U.S. military interventions where, for example, Secretary of State Albright in the former Clinton Administration spearheaded the war in Kosovo.
Given the fact that Colin Powell does not plan to return as Bush's Secretary of State (should Bush be re-elected), I believe this scientific information may lead us to a further understanding of some of his reasons and help us to interpret the White House role.
Why I think Dems Will Win in November
Why I think Dems Will Win in November
I read this on today's ABC News Political Note and I wanted to repeat it because I think it's an all-important weight to be considered (to the Democrat's benefit) in predicting November's presidential election outcome:
Nearly every political reporter in America is having the same experience — they keep finding Republicans who say they will never vote again for President Bush (over the war and the deficit, usually) but they have a heck of a time finding anyone who voted for Gore in 2000 who are now certain that they will vote for Bush (and Gore apparently won the popular vote).
I read this on today's ABC News Political Note and I wanted to repeat it because I think it's an all-important weight to be considered (to the Democrat's benefit) in predicting November's presidential election outcome:
Nearly every political reporter in America is having the same experience — they keep finding Republicans who say they will never vote again for President Bush (over the war and the deficit, usually) but they have a heck of a time finding anyone who voted for Gore in 2000 who are now certain that they will vote for Bush (and Gore apparently won the popular vote).
Is it a gift if it creates more terror? Are we safer?
Is it a gift if it creates terror? Are we safer?
"Insurgents are blowing up pipelines and police stations, geysers of sewage are erupting from the streets, and the electricity is off most of the time — but we've given Iraq the gift of supply-side economics."
Paul Krugman, in his latest N.Y. Times column, explains how auditing of the Coaltition Provision Authority's use of Iraqi oil revenues never quite got up to speed before the CPA dissolved. When you combine that with the obvious fact that the U.S. made Iraq a "playground for right-wing economic theorists, an employment agency for friends and family, and a source of lucrative contracts for corporate donors", you can't wonder why good will was never forged with the already-distrusting Iraqi people.
NeoCon Michael Ledeen has publically and proudly said "the level of casualties [in Iraq] is secondary" because "we are a warlike people" and "we love war."
Who are we...or the Iraqi people..to doubt him?
Are we Americans safer for giving the gift of right-wing politics via cronyism and blood to Iraq?
"Insurgents are blowing up pipelines and police stations, geysers of sewage are erupting from the streets, and the electricity is off most of the time — but we've given Iraq the gift of supply-side economics."
Paul Krugman, in his latest N.Y. Times column, explains how auditing of the Coaltition Provision Authority's use of Iraqi oil revenues never quite got up to speed before the CPA dissolved. When you combine that with the obvious fact that the U.S. made Iraq a "playground for right-wing economic theorists, an employment agency for friends and family, and a source of lucrative contracts for corporate donors", you can't wonder why good will was never forged with the already-distrusting Iraqi people.
NeoCon Michael Ledeen has publically and proudly said "the level of casualties [in Iraq] is secondary" because "we are a warlike people" and "we love war."
Who are we...or the Iraqi people..to doubt him?
Are we Americans safer for giving the gift of right-wing politics via cronyism and blood to Iraq?
Tuesday, June 29, 2004
Charlotte NC MoveOn.org-Fahrenheit 9/11 party
Charlotte NC MoveOn.org-Fahrenheit 9/11 party
The fine people of Charlotte, NC were very welcoming to this Central New Yorker last night at one of the 3000+ MoveOn.org-Fahrenheit 9/11 house parties across the nation. It was very well-attended (I took some photos which will I'll post when available).
UPDATE: Photo here:
The party was held at the Evening Muse in the lovely NODA section of Charlotte. It was hosted by manager Lea Pritchard and her fiancee, who was a spirited emcee. I was happy to have had the opportunity to meet Jane Whitley, secretary of the Mecklenburg County Democratic Party and to spend time with the talented blogger Anonymoses.
There were some memorable moments, such as the first hour of the event, where the people in the interesting crowd were given free time to make any comments and suggestions they desired. At about 8pm, the teleconference began. Michael Moore seemed very animated..thrilled to see that his movie was being appreciated by people from many segments of the political spectrum...not just preaching to the "choir". He recalled one woman in a Florida theater in tears after the movie ended. She's witnessed some things she hadn't before seen in the major media. Mr. Moore felt that the mainstream media was culpable for their failure to fully investigate and/or tell the whole story during the lead-up to the Iraq war. Mr. Moore also conjured up the image of a theater crowd in Greensboro NC giving an extended standing ovation to a blank screen long after the final credits had rolled.
By the way, the food at the Charlotte event was outstanding! Thanks to all who contributed their culinary talents.
I am thoroughly enjoying the Anais Mitchell CD I won (for having come the farthest-from Syracuse,NY-to attend the party).
You can hear the audio of Michael Moore's teleconference HERE.
The fine people of Charlotte, NC were very welcoming to this Central New Yorker last night at one of the 3000+ MoveOn.org-Fahrenheit 9/11 house parties across the nation. It was very well-attended (I took some photos which will I'll post when available).
UPDATE: Photo here:
The party was held at the Evening Muse in the lovely NODA section of Charlotte. It was hosted by manager Lea Pritchard and her fiancee, who was a spirited emcee. I was happy to have had the opportunity to meet Jane Whitley, secretary of the Mecklenburg County Democratic Party and to spend time with the talented blogger Anonymoses.
There were some memorable moments, such as the first hour of the event, where the people in the interesting crowd were given free time to make any comments and suggestions they desired. At about 8pm, the teleconference began. Michael Moore seemed very animated..thrilled to see that his movie was being appreciated by people from many segments of the political spectrum...not just preaching to the "choir". He recalled one woman in a Florida theater in tears after the movie ended. She's witnessed some things she hadn't before seen in the major media. Mr. Moore felt that the mainstream media was culpable for their failure to fully investigate and/or tell the whole story during the lead-up to the Iraq war. Mr. Moore also conjured up the image of a theater crowd in Greensboro NC giving an extended standing ovation to a blank screen long after the final credits had rolled.
By the way, the food at the Charlotte event was outstanding! Thanks to all who contributed their culinary talents.
I am thoroughly enjoying the Anais Mitchell CD I won (for having come the farthest-from Syracuse,NY-to attend the party).
You can hear the audio of Michael Moore's teleconference HERE.
Monday, June 28, 2004
Impulsive Bush oversteps diplomatic boundaries
Impulsive Bush oversteps diplomatic boundaries
Jacques Chirac has called Bush out on his bold ignorance, which I believe is par for the course for our overly impulsive President these days. He can't seem to hold his childish tongue for the good sake of necessary diplomacy.
Speaking in Ireland (where he was heartily protested), Bush claimed Turkey "successfully blends a European identity with the Islamic traditions" and should be admitted to the EU.
Everyone knows Bush needs Turkey's assistance with the Iraq problem and will do anything to get it...even if it means opening his mouth in matters where he should keep it shut for the sake of productive diplomacy.
Yesterday, it's said nearly one-hundred thousand people in Turkey spilled into the streets to tell us what they think of our war on Iraq (and what they think of Bush).
Turkey is becoming a terribly troubled democracy because of our decision to enter this unnecessary war.
In the New York Times, the headline reads: "As Bush Confers With NATO, U.S. Is Seen Losing Its Edge".
Bush makes diplomatic gaffe after diplomatic gaffe. Does anyone wonder why there has been resistance from normally friendly allies like Germany, France and Japan and from international organizations long dominated by the U.S.?
Evertime this boob of a President opens his mouth we lose more support and respect from our former trusting (and needed) allies.
We need a leader who can reason intelligently, who can think on his feet, and communicate exactly what he's thinking.
We don't have a leader like that right now.
Heaven help us, we don't.
Jacques Chirac has called Bush out on his bold ignorance, which I believe is par for the course for our overly impulsive President these days. He can't seem to hold his childish tongue for the good sake of necessary diplomacy.
Speaking in Ireland (where he was heartily protested), Bush claimed Turkey "successfully blends a European identity with the Islamic traditions" and should be admitted to the EU.
Everyone knows Bush needs Turkey's assistance with the Iraq problem and will do anything to get it...even if it means opening his mouth in matters where he should keep it shut for the sake of productive diplomacy.
Yesterday, it's said nearly one-hundred thousand people in Turkey spilled into the streets to tell us what they think of our war on Iraq (and what they think of Bush).
Turkey is becoming a terribly troubled democracy because of our decision to enter this unnecessary war.
In the New York Times, the headline reads: "As Bush Confers With NATO, U.S. Is Seen Losing Its Edge".
Bush makes diplomatic gaffe after diplomatic gaffe. Does anyone wonder why there has been resistance from normally friendly allies like Germany, France and Japan and from international organizations long dominated by the U.S.?
Evertime this boob of a President opens his mouth we lose more support and respect from our former trusting (and needed) allies.
We need a leader who can reason intelligently, who can think on his feet, and communicate exactly what he's thinking.
We don't have a leader like that right now.
Heaven help us, we don't.
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