The Last Thursday

Tomorrow is the Thursday that all of our press members and candidate teams have been waiting for. Who will win SOC 118? Well, I'm not psychic but I know who my votes are going to.

It looks like Clinton and Obama are basically tied. Clinton with 823 delegates and Obama with 741 delegates.

As for the Republicans, McCain is clearly in the lead with 680 delegates.

Super Tuesday Results

Winners and Projected Winners

Alabama - Obama - Huckabee
Alaska - Obama - Romney
Arizona - Clinton - McCain
Arkansas - Clinton - Huckabee
California - Clinton - McCain
Colorado - Obama - Romney
Connecticut - Obama - McCain
Delaware - Obama - McCain
Georgia - Obama - Huckabee
Idaho - Obama -
Illinois - Obama - McCain
Kansas - Obama - McCain
Massachusetts -Clinton - Romney
Missouri - Obama - McCain
New Jersey - Clinton - McCain
New Mexico - Clinton
New York - Clinton - McCain
North Dakota - Obama - Romney
Oklahoma - Clinton - McCain
Tennessee - Clinton - Huckabee
Utah - Obama - Romney
West Virginia - Huckabee
Wyoming - Romney

Other Results can be found here: http://www.cnn.com/ELECTION/2008/

Debate Update

The debate today was organized by Fox News, and it played out relatively well. My favorite part of the entire program is pictured above. The candidates really did not show us anything new. It was basically just a question answer type program.

Democrats - all were very prepared
Clinton - Before today's debate, when the Senator spoke to 118, she was very monotone and soft spoken, but today she delivered her messages strongly - except for when she talked about genocide in Iraq (was she looking for the words "sexual mutilation"?) Saying "cutting off the clitoris" was a bit vulgar and kind of threw me off.

Obama - All of her answers were clear, her voice was firm - I especially liked her concluding statement - It was spirited, and strong.

Edwards - He came prepared (like always). I am always in awe about how prepared he is. He not only knew his positions extremely well but knew his opponents' as well. The only problem that is becoming frequent with Edwards is that he comes off kind of egotistical - using phrases like "I want to remind people that.." "I was the first.." "I am the only.." constantly. I don't think the phrases were the problem, but it was how and when he said them. Overall I think he gained the most out of the debate. He was memorable and did show off his knowledge.

Republicans - This was a pretty funny segment. All the Democrats command respect, but it was hard for the Republicans to do the same.

Giuliani - By far I think Giuliani came off as the most professional in this debate. He knew his stances, he delivered them professionally. The only thing I had a problem with was that he followed McCain's example of not standing up for the concluding statement. The candidates who chose to stand up during that statement appeared more strong. That was their moment to shine.

Huckabee - Its really hard to take her seriously when she speaks in the sermon-like tone, but it is all very much amusing. There is great charisma in this candidate and every time she speaks it shines through. All of her answers somehow lead to God, but some were illogical.

Paul - "Truth is freedom and freedom is power"... Really now. Paul's answers came out very natural and unscripted - though he had notes. This ability is admirable, and like Huckabee, Paul has a charismatic charm as well. What was most amusing about the Congressman, was his facial expressions. Every time another candidate would talk and speak about their issues, Paul would have a displeasing frown on his face,

McCain - She answered her questions well, but she was not memorable. There was no "omph" in her tone, and her answers sounded very scripted. What I was taken back from, was when she asked if she had to stand. If Fox gave the candidates that option, I would have taken full advantage of it. The closing statement would have made much more of a statement if she did stand up.

I play video games.. I vote...

A little graphic to lighten up this SUPER day.

Click on it for the bigger version.

Hillary would be interested in playing this one I think.

Debate 2008 - You Ready Candidates?

It is officially Super Tuesday!

Fox is hosting a debate in about 15 hours. We have seen a few press conferences, mainly some question and answer scenarios, but we have not seen the candidates really interacting with each other. So the question is not if they are ready for us, but are they ready for each other? This is should be an interesting hour. Come back to the blog for updates and whatnots!

Obama movement a "Youthquake"?

With Super Tuesday coming up we have to wonder who is going to take California? Who is California going to give its votes to (for Tuesday as well for November). Hillary or Obama? Hillary has the edge in the Latino votes as well as the older crowds, but Obama has had a crazy young voter turn out these past elections. Most of his voters were under 25 in Iowa - and they have kept him up. Our country has had a history of youth being apathetic to politics. Are the youth in California going to help Obama win? And if they do, will they continue with the voting in November as well?

In 2000 the voter turn out for those 18-24 was only 36%, in 2004 it went up by 11 points at 47%, will 2008 continue the rise?

Just in case you missed it..

I made a website especially for the Democratic Debate that happened tonight. There are 12 videos total each at about 10 minutes. This debate is a pretty civil debate. CNN mentions Hillary and Obama possibly being running mates, but both parties say its way too early. They also both kicked off the debate with talks of what a good guy Edwards is. Rainbows and Sunshine.

DEBATE ON!

Candidates Give Quick Statements on Global Warming

Today in honor of Focus the Nation, the candidates briefly described their plans to reduce/combat global warming.

The Democrats relatively had the same stance - Edwards made it clear that he did not want to support nuclear energy and was more interest in ethanol, where it has been cost effective and proven to work.

Republicans acknowledged the problem of global warming, their solutions lacked compared to the Democrats', and Ron Paul's was not a real solution rather it was a leave it to the rich and powerful oil companies.

Edwards to Officially Drop

Edwards has just announced that he will officially drop the race today in New Orleans.

I remember four years ago - I wasn't quite 18, and highly distraught that I could not vote. Wasn't Edwards the new, young, and hip candidate? Wasn't he compared to JFK? Wasn't he the one who symbolized change? - Four years ago he was that candidate - but this time around that title was taken by the young, charming, and inspirational Obama.

So where does this leave Edwards? With all the headline news about Hillary and Obama - Edwards was forgotten. With no wins so far (and one of the states being his native state) - Edwards was bound to drop.

So whats he doing now? He is said to still be pushing for the socioeconomically disadvantaged. He is predicted to still run a great campaign in SOC 118.

*EDIT*: I just received an email from Edwards himself - this is his quoted statement
“Besides what has happened in New Orleans, I will remain a contender in the California Primary in order to remind the nation’s most populous state of the vital issues we as a nation must address in the times ahead. California and the spirit boldly embedded in the Golden State’s active and progressive citizenry must remain on the forefront of national change and Democratic engagement. Poverty, Universal Healthcare, Global Warming, education, etc., must be a significant catalyst for dialogue and civic participation in this election process and I intend full well to remain vocal even until Super Tuesday”

Giuliani Plan Fails, McCain Wins Florida

Was this a surprise? Did Giuliani really expect to sit back for all the "little" races and win the "big" race? It sounds kind of smart I guess... unless you lose - a he did. So instead of being a front-runner for the Republicans it seems like he should drop out - admit defeat and swallow the ridicules that are sure to come his way.

So congrats to McCain - now that he has one "big" state, will he grab the others?

Oh yea Clinton wins Florida.. but no delegates are accepted.

Kennedy Endorses Obama - Whats the big deal?

TIME's (the real TIME) Mark Halperin lists the reasons why this endorsement matters so much more than say... Chuck Norris'

"While endorsements don’t usually matter much, Edward Kennedy’s does because:

1. He has a huge following with Hispanics, a big deal in California and other Super Tuesday states, and one of Obama’s weaknesses.

2. The symbolic Kennedy family thing — the ultimate message of change, viability, Democratic legitimacy, and youthful excitement.

3. The national press will be obsessed with the story for days and days to come, with no downside for Obama; the local press coverage when Kennedy travels for Obama will be ginormous.

4. It sends a message to other senators and superdelegates that it is OK to be for Obama — they don’t have to be afraid of the Clintons.

5. He has a huge following among working-class, traditional Democrats, one of Obama’s weaknesses.

6. He has a huge following among union households, another of Obama’s weaknesses."

How will this affect California's voting? Will it have any affect in California? I think if any endorsement should - this one would.

Randomly found on YouTube..

I just found this on YouTube.. amusing. Lets find more dedicated fans of other candidates!

Gimme Mitt:


I'm sure everyone's heard of ObamaGirl and the "I've got a crush on...Obama", recently another YouTuber has come out with a video called "I've got a crush on...Hillary" and although both are pretty amusing and creative, both are pretty shallow in content but in case you are interested the are below:

I've Got a Crush on... Obama:


I've Got a Crush on... Hillary:

Democrats Florida Dilemma

So we all know about how the Democratic National Committee is failing to recognize the Florida delegates because Florida decided to "cut in line" and moved their primaries from March to January. - All the democratic candidates have agreed to not campaign in the state - attending fund raisers in the state of course is still permitted.

The problem with ignoring Florida, is that Florida is one of the country's largest states. Florida as well all can recall determined the presidency 8 years (yes it has been that long) ago by only 500 votes. - Punishing Florida so severely may be harmful for the Democrats in the November elections.

So now, even though Florida doesn't count for the Democrats during the primary elections, the dilemma is if the Democratic candidates should concentrate on Florida now, 2 days before their primary.

HALPERIN’S TAKE: The Candidates’ Main Advantages As We Head to Super Tuesday

(from the official time.com website)


Clinton:

1. New York, California, New Jersey, Connecticut, Ohio, and Texas

2. A sustained national polling lead

3. closed primaries in which only Democrats vote

4. perceived experience

5. white, Hispanic, and low-income voters

Obama:

1. “Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton” will never sound like change

2. the media is (passionately) on his side

3. Maryland, Virginia, Wisconsin, and caucus states

4. Internet money

5. a loyal, ardent, focused staff

McCain:

1. the national security card

2. the media is (cozily) on his side

3. experience

4. open primaries

5. Gov. Charlie Crist

Romney:

1. his (still vast) bank account

2. virulently anti-McCain Republicans who will champion him by default in a one-on-one race

3. the rising salience of the economic issue and his crisp CEO argument

4. talk radio

5. vigor and acute drive

Obama wins South Carolina, Michella helps out

Obama wins South Carolina with 55% of the vote. With Bill helping Hillary out, Michelle Obama has been on the campaign trail full time speaking as well. She made her rounds in South Carolina - where the voter outcome was phenomenal where half the voters were black and alot of them were women. Michelle speaking on behalf of Barack may have helped out with the female black vote where many were torn between voting for a candidate that could potentially be the next female president, or one that could potentially be the next African American president.

Up next for the Democrats, Super Tuesday! - with 22 states holding their primaries, it will very likely be the determining day for all candidates.

Mailing List = Mailing Spam... Edwards... Press Conference

Most people have two email accounts (well most people I know) one for the important emails, and one for spam. Thanks to the SOC118 mailing list my important account has been constantly filled with "look at me" emails. That being said, I am pretty annoyed at these emails and will just delete them. I did this with all of the emails Edwards sent yesterday - and I was pretty not impressed with Camp Edwards.

But after the press conference today I'm going to say I change my mind. Edwards was well spoken and overall came off very professional.

It was brought up after the press conference that it was surprising that there was little dialog about the Obama/Hillary feud. And I am glad that this was not brought up much. We need to push the feud behind us and focus on the issues. So it looks like we have moved on beyond the tabloid drama.

Poise or Propaganda?

By Raquel Martin

In today's SOC118 press conference Sen. John McCain was asked if he felt it was sexist not to correct his supporter who referred to Hillary Clinton as a “bitch.” He calmly answered, “I’m not going to change their words, that’s not my place.” I never realized he was such a strong supporter of the first amendment. I only hope he extends the same courtesy to those who call his wife a thief and a drug addict. While he cannot control the words of others, he may want to minimize misogynistic name calling by not acknowledging the question, "so how do we beat the bitch?"

4 Most Underreported

Underreported, underrated, unnoticed you know what I mean

4. Ron Paul's answer to the question about racism in LA
3. Romney's who let the dogs out:

2. McCain's response to "How do we beat the bitch?":

1. John Edwards (though after the past debate he is getting some news...finally)

Have any suggestions for more? Comment and it might be put up!

Make it or Break it for Giuliani

Florida's primary is 8 days from today - like Michigan the state moved its primary up and the Democratic party has chosen to revoke them of their delegates, but the Republican party has not - which makes the state a pretty powerful on in terms of affecting the election for the Republican candidates.

Giuliani is depending on Florida for the win. He has been pretty inactive through the past caucuses and primaries, but if he wins Florida he will be right up there with the top candidates.

Nevada Caucus and South Carolina Primary

McCain wins the primary in South Carolina!
Clinton wins Nevada caucus!
Romney wins Nevada caucus!
so much news within the few minutes!

Meet the Press

The Meet the Press segment today focused on the updates of some candidates as well as the viewing and analyzing of the campaign ads by news analysts from TIME (us!), The New York Times, and The Davis Enterprise. For your convenience I will post all the ads here along with my commentary.

Obama's ad


The ad brings Obama down to earth. It seems obvious that the ad is directed towards the working American. Perhaps he is trying to reach out to the older voters now.

Edwards' ad


Edwards' had two featured in the segment today, I have only embeded one on to this blog because I feel that this has more to do with the candidate. The song choice distracted me far too much from the actual ad. What is the link between this song and Edwards? Does America have a crush on Edwards? The pictures are nice and further illuminates Edwards' charisma. Charisma may be able to win an election, but it will not successfully run a country (as seen in the past).

Sen. Clinton's ad:


Professional, effective, and memorable. The repetition with words in this advertisement is what keeps the viewers interested. The way the ad touches on key issues and does not dwell on them is clever. This keeps the viewer interested and wanting more information. I especially appreciate the fact that pictures of the candidate are not blasted throughout this video.

McCain's ad:


Why is this advertisement so long? McCain's monotone voice and illegible text remind me of "recently the drug -insert prescription drug here- has been found to cause strokes, if you have been affected by this medication call -insert lawyer here-, you may be entitled to blah blah blah". If it was a lot shorter (by more than half the time) I'm sure it would have been a more effective advertisement.

Giuliani's ad


It was nice to see Giuliani actually talking directly to the viewer about one issue he feels strongly about. Unfortunately I found much of the information given a bit redundant - a simple sentence on giving deductions so people could choose their own health care would have done just fine.

Ron Paul's ad


Surprisingly this ad was pretty effective. It clips to issues that he feels are important and then follows with a parade of support. Its fast and easy to understand and targets more than just the working class.

Huckabee's ad


This ad was awkwardly funny. Was it suppose to be funny? If it wasn't so awkward I'm pretty sure I would call it boring.

After the analyzing of the ads, the show proceeded with two mini interviews with Hillary Clinton and John McCain.

Meet the Press by NBC

Meet the Press Live was today. Hillary and McCain were interviewed along with some news people including our own Jane! Come back for a more detailed description of how everything went. I will leave you for now with my personal favorite news campaign.

McCain's Camp Calls Romney a Kerry

Romney a flip flop? His record says so and McCain's team is fast to point it out (especially after Romney's win last night).

Michigan Primaries

Michigan primaries are today. 30 delegate votes are up for grabs tonight. Romney is currently ahead of McCain for now.

Democrats are not going to be focusing much on this primary. Michigan did not ask for permission to move up their primaries so the Democratic National Committee took away their delegate votes! Does this feel like elementary school and being put on time-out for cutting in line or is it just me?

EDIT: Romney wins.

This campaign is not about race nor is it about gender.

Today's Meet the Press segment on NBC has everybody talking about Clinton and Obama. The drama stems from a quote Clinton said, "Dr. King's dream began to be realized when President Johnson passed the Civil Rights Act of '64." She goes on further to say, "It took a President to get it done".

This was translated by the public/Obama supporters/Obama's camp as the Senator saying that it took a white president to really change the civil rights at the time, despite Dr.King's dream.

Of course in a close competition there is going to quite a bit of he said, she saids, but lets be more mature like voting citizens should be shall we? Taken out of context the quote can be seen as highly offensive. But the quote was not meant to be about race. After all, is she not a minority herself?

So to be fair to Clinton, Obama, and the rest of the candidates - let us put race and gender aside and focus on experience, values, and their plans for our issues.

"I don't think either of us want to inject race or gender in this campaign. We are running as individuals, we are making our cases to the American people, and it's imperative that we get the record and the facts straight because people are entitled to have that information.-Senator Hillary Clinton.

-Sophia

Edwards to take the Democratic primary in South Carolina?

Edwards' first home in Seneca, South Carolina

South Carolina is up soon. Will Edwards take the vote like he did the last time? He says he is in the election for the long run, but so far with no wins and little buzz South Carolina sounds like a plan to keep up with the competition. He placed second in Iowa and third in New Hampshire. He has been campaigning in the state for a while. He claims to know the citizens of South Carolina because he has been one. He was born and grew up in the state. He says he knows the "mill life". We will see if the citizens think so too.. on January 26th! -Sophia

Campaign Announcements

TIME Magazine will be at the Campaign Announcements where we will ask candidates questions you want to know. Check back tomorrow night for the results.

First Post!

Both websites have been set up. -Sophia