YOU GO BIG JOHN... KERRY SOUNDS LIKE HE'S RUNNING AGAIN

[Jeffersons Ghost]

Of course he did not come right out and toss his Navy cap into the ring but he DID say, "I'm thinking seriously about running!"

SWIFT BOAT THIS REPUBLICAN COWARDS!

He adds all the issues (like affordable health-care for America) he ran on before are even bigger today. That man is a true patriot. Insead of offering his stellar military record, however, let's just look at him as an individual.

Critics attack him because he is intelligent and DECISIVE enough to change his mind when new information comes to light. The beauty of decisiveness is that when those who possess this trait make a poor choice, they have an ability to change the decision quickly and create a favorable outcome. This man has both the desire and ability to create new options for America, instead of "staying the course" like a coward who never led anything other than a coke party, before he bought an election in Texas.

While I'm not much of a country fan, I like Johnny Cash, so I reworked a song of his for BIG JOHN KERRY.

Ev'ry mornin' in the Senate you could see him arrive
He stood six foot six and weighed two forty five
Kinda broad at the shoulder and narrow at the hip
And everybody knew ya didn't give no lip to Big John.
Big John, Big John, Big Bad John (Big John)

Nobody seemed to know where John might stand
but you can damn well bet he'll stand up for our land
When it comes to hard issues that man's not shy
And if the crooks speak at all they just "Hi" to Big John.

Somebody said he fought in Nam I think
Where he pulled a fellow patriot out of the drink
And a crashin' blast from a huge right hand
Sent a Viet Cong fellow to the Promised Land, Big John
Big John, Big John, Big Bad John (Big John)

Then came the day at the bottom of the mine
When a timber cracked and men started cryin'
Miners were prayin' and hearts beat fast
And everybody thought that they'd
Breathed their last-'cept John

Through the dust and the smoke of this man-made hell
Walked a giant of a man that the miners knew well
Grabbed a saggin' timber, gave out with a groan
And like a giant oak tree he just stood there alone, Big John
Big John, Big John, Big Bad John (Big John)

And with all of his strength he gave a mighty shove
Then a miner yelled out "There's a light up above!"
And twenty men scrambled from a would-be grave
Now there's only one left down there to save, Big John

With jacks and timbers they started back down
Then came that rumble way down in the ground
And then smoke and gas belched out of that mine
Everybody knew it was the end of the line for Big John
Big John, Big John, Big Bad John (Big John)

Now, they never reopened that worthless pit
They just placed a marble stand in front of it
These few words are written on that stand
"At the bottom of this mine lies one hell of a man, Big John"
Big John, Big John, Big Bad John (Big John)

[acmavm]

1. Oh no, he can't be. Tell me he isn't thinking about it again. Please.

.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

2. I pray that he is running again... Why is that a bad thing?

He'll win this time... Many Republicans are now sorry they let America down before and want another chance to elect one of the finest people in the Senate.

[Fabio]

3. Only time will tell.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

8. did you see him this morning?

either he's putting up a smoke screen for his party or running again. imho

[_dynamicdems]

86. He's out there drawing fire. He wants the Repugs to take the bait

so they will look like the war-mongering chickenhawks that they are and so that America will make a comparison and vote Democratic in 2006.

2008? I hope so. He's taken the hits and he's still standing. The Repugs are terrified he'll run again because they already spent all the amunition they had on him.

I don't care what anybody says, until they've been through a national campaign against the Rovian Bushco machine, they haven't a clue what it's like. Only three people really know what that is like: Al Gore (and sorry to say because I'm a huge fan of Al Gore's but he spent too long licking his wounds and he'll have to get in line behind Kerry now as far as I'm concerned), John McCain (and he responded by bending over) and John Kerry.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

141. JOHN KERRY SAYS

Dear DU,

"Tell the truth. Fire the incompetents. Get out of Iraq. Have health care for all Americans. These are pretty simple messages, and they're worth fighting for today."

That's what I said yesterday when I appeared on "Meet the Press" to push our call for two deadlines and an exit from Iraq.

You and I both know it will take a massive citizen effort to force a President bogged down in this war to change his course - but doing so is our moral responsibility.

I urge you to join me today in calling for the withdrawal of American combat troops by the end of 2006 - and sooner than that if Iraqi politicians allow the civil war to grow and continue to delay, squabble and jockey for their own political turf while our brave soldiers sacrifice life and limb every day to create the conditions for democracy.

Sign our Out of Iraq in 2006 Petition Now
http://www.johnkerry.com/action/deadline/?sc=e.20060410

Fortunately, more and more people are stepping forward to join in our call to bring our troops home by the end of this year. Political leaders like Russ Feingold, Max Cleland, and Gary Hart have endorsed our plan -- and grassroots support for our call to action is growing.

Still, the President and his administration remain frozen in place, boxed in by George W. Bush's stubborn refusal to admit that he has America on the wrong course in Iraq. The President seems content to endlessly wait for various political factions in Iraq to get their act together.

That's totally unacceptable. And you and I have a moral responsibility to do everything in our power to make George W. Bush do what he likes to do the least - and that's confront reality head-on.

Sign our Out of Iraq in 2006 Petition Now
http://www.johnkerry.com/action/deadline/?sc=e.20060410

I'm not suggesting that this will be easy. The fact is, it would be far easier to challenge the President on other topics if all we were interested in is scoring political points.

But, no one in 2006 -- Democratic or Republican, liberal or conservative -- can refuse to step forward and offer clear ideas on Iraq. And, with 133,000 courageous American men and women putting their lives on the line for democracy in Iraq, it is essential for you and other members of our three-million person johnkerry.com community to take action.

I need you to join me in leading an all-out effort to turn this President's wrong-headed policy on Iraq around. And ask your friends and family to do the same by forwarding this email to them.

Sign our Out of Iraq in 2006 Petition Now
http://www.johnkerry.com/action/deadline/?sc=e.20060410

Our soldiers have done their jobs. They can't resolve political differences between Iraqis in an escalating civil war. It can't be done militarily; it can't be done from a Humvee or a helicopter. It can only be accomplished by a dramatic change of course, turning away from George W. Bush's aimless "stay for as long as it takes" approach. You and I have to try to make this administration change their approach before it's too late.

I urge you not to wait another day before signing onto this profoundly important fight for a better way.

Sincerely,

John Kerry

P.S. Late Saturday night I went to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington. The Wall is a powerful reminder of our moral obligation to tell the truth. As you walk down the ramp, you find yourself literally engulfed as the Wall, tens of thousands of names etched on it, gets higher and higher.

There are far too many people whose names are on the Wall who died after leaders in Washington knew that our policy wasn't working. We need to get Iraq right for our soldiers today before we let history repeat itself.

[Cobalt Violet]

4. I'm with you on that.

I think he will easily win.

[zann725]

21. Not only do I think he'll win...but if Shrub keeps sinking in polls, &

scandals mount quickly (as they ARE)...JK/Gore may even get part of THIS term. After all...it's only a matter of days until either "Katie" Harris or Blackwell (both failing badly in their no-doubt promised victorious campaigns) begin to squeal the Truths about '00 and '04. If so, a Gore/Kerry...Kerry/Gore recapturing of the WH is all but a 'done deal.'

...karma come 'round...'JUST' dessert for the theives who wrongly stole the past two victories of K/G.

A girl can hope...
A nation can too! NGU!

[Jeffersons Ghost]

67. FiNaLLy, MY BEST ARGUMENT HIGH ENOUGH FOR NAYSAYERS!!!

Once upon a time in the land of Chicken-Hawk Haven an eagle was born. Not long after he learned to fly, a war with some well-trained falcons broke out on the other side of the planet.

Falcons are seasoned fighting birds born into a war that constantly rages in their land but this is not a falcon story. Instead, this is a tale of the species Chicken-Hawkia, which only slightly resembles the birds of a feather cliché. Gold feathers adorn not only the wings but also the nests of one class of hawk, while the others have mostly tan or brown feathers. Of course the golden feathered Chicken-Hawks willingly welcome fine eagle families into their nesting tree because hanging with eagles is sophisticated and stylish for the smaller raptors.

The bird wars seem unfair in retrospect because often gold-feathered hawks started the trouble and then ordered the brown hawks to try and win the battles, often with dire consequences. In fact, high-class hawks, like eagles, did not have to fight at all and believe me MANY upscale Chicken-Hawks made that very choice.

Strangely, however, the Eagle DID decide protecting other birds was important enough to risk his life and proved to be a valiant, victorious fighter, until one day when his heart cried out war is wrong.

Slightly forlorn, the Eagle flew home only to be greeted by chicken-like cackles and crowish caws that he had not yet done enough to serve Birdom. Undaunted, the Eagle actually agreed and promptly picked up a sing to protest war and save hawk lives. Still, those haunting cackles raised his hackles by screeching not enough Eagle! NOT ENOUGH YET!

So the Eagle decided to serve Birdom again and lead his local flock in a way that was more fair than they actually deserved. He served many years in Birdington DC before once again nay saying cackles raised his hackles. NOT ENOUGH, NOT ENOUGH, they chirped.

You see, some 24K nut-case cackler had somehow snatched control of Birdom and he was quite tyrannical, considering 24K was one of the most cowardly Chicken-Hawks ever. Reluctantly, the Eagle stepped forward to run against the better financed bird in Hawkidential elections. The Eagle would have gotten that top job handed to him years ago, like Chimp-Hawk, had he simply taken all those golden feathers powerful Chicken-Hawks offered him. Ole' 24K even owned most of the bird-media, including the New York, Fly-by-nightTimes.

With not only media against him but also a lot of public opinion, Eagle ended up using many personal feathers in the race. Considering 24K was an incumbent Chicken-Hawk dealing from his own stacked deck, so to speak, the Eagle flew pretty well. Still, the cheeping of Hawks split the night air with, "NOT ENOUGH, NOT ENOUGH EAGLE."

After an all night feather count in a very close race, tensions at the Eagles Nest ran high. Then, the outcome was revealed. From his frustration, Eagle screamed for a recount of the almost won contest. Eagle was not used to losing because he was a winner. His call was heard throughout Birdom but down at Bird-beach where 24K's bird-brained brother ruled, the count was already cast in stone. Still, Eagle watched patiently from his perch until all manner of breaches in birdism broke out. Then, Eagle flew home because he was very tired and sick that the very Birdom many of his comrades-at-wing had died to protect was now reduced to a vulture's buffet.

As Eagle flew away to a much deserved rest, he could still hear the cackles say, "NOT ENOUGH, NOT ENOUGH EAGLE" but will it ever be enough for every bird in the forest? While the Chimp-bird shows you can fool all of the birds some of the time and some birds all of the time, all Eagle proves is that some birds will screech, NOT ENOUGH anytime, no matter how much you give.

[stillcool]

7. it's kind of weird....

there is a part of me that thinks we are so past the point, that any elected official could really make a difference. The thought of Kerry, as president, removes all such thinking and makes me hopeful about the future.

[MH1]

32. I kind of feel that too.

So far only Kerry gives me that hope and confidence - but I'm willing to look for it with whoever is the 2008 nominee. Some of the others have a lot of strengths, for sure. But I know Kerry best and feel sure he could both win, and be a great President who could turn this country around.

[MH1]

29. I agree.

The "buyers remorse" effect could be significant. Especially if the Demcoratic leadership intentionally played it. Well, if they did that competently. Okay on second thought, maybe John is doing just fine on his own.

[babylonsister]

35. I pray he also runs again; I can't think of anyone

who is able to defend his position like Senator Kerry, and he's already been around the block, admitted to mistakes, and claims that won't happen again.
What's not to like?
He's my President and we sorely need one!:patriot:

[ClarkBayh 2008]

119. Please please please wake the hell up....

Even if Kerry won, he'd have no ability to govern.
How does he get to 300 electoral votes?

When is this party going to start to understand that the office
is the presidency of 50 states & the office of commander in chief?

His running is a bad thing since there is no way for him to get
over 280 electoral votes.

[ProSense]

124. What the hell are you talking about? n/t

[karynnj]

131. You don't need over 280

You are President of the United states, not 50 individual states. The less populated states are already over weighted. The number of electoral votes does't determine how easy it is to govern. The make up of the Congress does.

[wisteria]

145. You don't need that many votes! He can manage what he does need though! n/

[TankLV]

47. NO! Give it up John - Time for SOMEBODY NEW!

You had your chance AND BLEW IT for whatever reasons that are debated here.

You are YESTERDAY's news.

Give somebody else a chance John. Put you ego in a bottle.

We don't want it anymore.

You're a good senator - stick with that.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

71. here's my answer tnakLy

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x2561547

[kestrel91316]

95. Kerry didn't blow it. It was stolen.

[TankLV]

143. He blew it. You guys and gals refuse to see it.

Sorry.

I have eyes and ears and a good memory.

Kerry blew it. Bigtime.

That the election may have been stolen, cannot be ruled out, either.

But he blew it.

I just don't understand the irrational fawning and love affair with this man.

Sorry.

I like Al Gore, but he's aparently not running.

I just KNOW we can do better.

And, I will defend his good name when I see unfair smears alleged against him like follows further on in this thread. That is inexcusable.

I like him - I just don't like him enough to be our pick next time around.

That's the way I feel now. Sorry.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

154. what a bunch of crap

he got more votes than ANYONE EVER HAS against an war-time incumbent.

[kestrel91316]

93. Yeah, 'cause he's SO unqualified, and stupid, and lacks

relevant experience!!!!!!!!!!

[Danieljay]

5. Gore/Kerry n/t

[Fabio]

6. I like the idea of Gore/Kerry - Kerry/Gore

A Phoenix Rising Ticket

AND

something good for the environment would finally happen.

[sandnsea]

61. Either way would be good with me

I'd like to see the two of them get together and just start storming the country and airwaves right now. We need leadership. Do they get along well enough to do this? They need to rise above all the partisanship and rhetoric, above the Clinton bullshit, and just lead.

And I am so sick of the political crap coming out of the party. That remark by Don Fowler was way out of line. Somebody needs to smack those people right upside the head. You don't build a leadership party by beating the hell out of the people you told the country were the ones capable of being President. I don't know why we keep doing that.

[noclonyofthechimp]

10. wahoo! Can a VP be on the ticket as a VP again??

[Jeffersons Ghost]

11. not bad, i like gore but i'd reverse it KERRY/ GORE

OR KERRY/ FEINGOLD! LOL, that combo fixes the USA Patriot Act!

[noclonyofthechimp]

13. I like Kerry/Fiengold, also.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

19. Feingold/ Mickey Mouse wouldn't bug me, if I thought it would win

but will conservative America elect a twice divorced Jewish man who is single and lacks the military experience needed to get our guys safely out of Iraq?

[ClarkBayh 2008]

120. Democrat Delusionaries

Feingold is a great guy.
Would make a super head of HHS.

The presidency is not who is the most moral,
most upstanding, most progressive person in the
U.S.?

You can't do ANY good things with only 268
electoral votes.... GET REAL.

[woo me with science]

112. with the bumper sticker: "NEED A DO-OVER?" nt

[leftofthedial]

9. running again?

or running away again?

:shrug:

[noclonyofthechimp]

12. I agree! He has my vote. As long as we have a verifiable voting

process.

[rusty charly]

15. and if it's really, really close

will kerry step down?

again?

sorry.

i'm not over that one yet.

[TankLV]

48. He'll fold again. Too risky.

Time for somebody new.

[Dr Ron]

138. Kerry had plans to fight if it was really, really close--but it wasn't

There were contingency plans out before the election in case it was close as in 2000, such as not to concede and to start forming a government so he wouldn't appear like Gore did.

The fact is that Ohio was not close enough to win by recounts as Florida was. Kerry could only win by proving fraud. As nobody has been able to prove it yet (sufficient to win in court) there is no way he could have proved it in time to change the outcome in 2004.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

16. he had mine before and he'll get it again

Who else in DC cares about us discarded Vietnam vets? Who else cares if poor Americans get good health care? Who else stood with Feingold on censure? which by the way he pushed for again on TV this morning. Who else offers real decisive leadership to America in her darkest moment? If you were on a Swift-boat in Nam, who else would you want to lead you? Maybe Kennedy would be as good but that other BIG JOHN was shot down before he could show his courage and conviction because real Vets don't sell out.

What Kerry did by stepping aside was nothing but good strategy for this upcoming election, where he will win. His "sore loser" Repuke rival WILL demand a recount when Kerry wins next time. How will he or she look to America when they demand a recount only to confirm they're a big loser?

[noclonyofthechimp]

14. Great Post!!!

[killerbush]

17. We tried Kerry once, and lost

What's to say it won't happen again??

[Jeffersons Ghost]

18. Nothing killerbush

Only a fool will promise you success with DIEBOLD running amuck but I'll tell you this; if they DIEBOLD America they better hide in Hitler's bunker next time because the natives are restless.

[killerbush]

20. My original post stands, Kerry lost. NEXT!!!!

[Jeffersons Ghost]

22. any fool can fast boat a hero... DC cowards proved that last time

A true leader offers solutions not criticism, killerbush, so

LEAD FOLLOW OR GET THE HELL OUT OF THE WAY

because there is a REAL SWIFT BOAT headed right at you.



What's YOUR solution to America's problems killerbush? Maybe we need 8 ore years of the same type puppet dictatorship we've had from the Republicans. next! lol

[killerbush]

25. What has Kerry learned from last time??

The Republicans used him as a punching bag in the last election. Kerry's response to the swift boat lies were so late in coming, that when he did answer them, it was too late. John Kerry has 2 problems, 1, it takes him 6 years to answer a question. People don't want an answer that they're going to fall asleep in the middle of. They want concise, smart answers. And 2, He has an image problem. When the name John Kerry comes up with people who are not his supporters, what is the first image they get?? The answer, Washington insider. Rightly or wrongly, Kerry is thrown in with the corruption in Washington. Most Americans now say, a pox on both your houses. Democrats need a guy who is not connected with Washington. That's also why Hillary has problems. If he can overcome these images about him, then he might have a chance. It's not the answer your looking for, but it's the truth.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

26. Those are all valid points killerbush, who is the solution?

If you had seen Kerry this morning you'd see that a wise man learns from mistakes as a fool "stays the course."

Here is what you write that I totally agree with:
"Kerry is thrown in with the corruption in Washington.
That's also why Hillary has problems.
Most Americans now say, a pox on both your houses."

this is a very valid question: "When the name John Kerry comes up with people who are not his supporters, what is the first image they get?"

Let me tell you what I know about Kerry:
Tossing him into the good ole' boys (girls) club is unfair and unfounded.
Really smart people not only learn but also learn fast.
Once a person shows the "right stuff" in battle that stuff is there for the long haul.
Kerry likely made a mistake during battle initially, but was able to correct the error through courage and decisiveness, which shows "the right stuff."
Kerry will let his heart guide him next time instead of listening to the same "pros" who make all candidates cookie-cutter clones.
Kerry knows how to win and lead. NOTHING is better for America than John Kerry and I would not have made that statement last month. this morning I saw a new tough, gutsy Kerry, who stood up and essentially said, "DAMN THE TORPEDOES, FULL SPEED AHEAD, just like he did in Nam to save American lives and win.

[killerbush]

68. I would love to see it

I have nothing against John Kerry. He is truely one of the greatest men to ever wear the uniform, but I'm not convinced that he will get down in the dirt with the Republicans when he has to. When the swift boat liars set their sites on Kerry, the media gave them the forum to spew their garbage. Kerry ignored what they had to say until he had no choice, but by that time, it was too late. Kerry has to run his campaign with the gloves off from the beginning, and get down and dirty when the Republicans attack. In 1996, Bill Clinton's campaign had an answer immediately after the Republicans attacked. John Kerry needs that kind of response. I'll support Kerry if he is the nominee, and we'll have plenty of time to shake things out.

[karynnj]

79. Kerry did respond, but the media didn't react as it should have

In any prior election, it would have sufficed when Kerry's team said the charges were in conflict with the official Navy records and offered with no additional proof. Note, they ended the Bush TANG story and fired people when they couldn't prove documents were genuine - even though the sectretary volunteered that the information was consistent with something she did type and there was nearly a year missing in Bush's records.

When that wasn't enough, the Kerry team disproved many of the charges - some of which had people claiming to witness things when they provably were not there. The cable media especially then just took a couple more charges from the book and presented these liars and the Kerry surrogates as equals.

Consider it this way:
If your boss came and said he thought you shouldn't get a promotion because some guy called him and said that you didn't get the "A" your transcript from college said you got in Calculus, but a "C" and he knows because he sat next to you. You then find he didn't even to check whether the guy went to the same school, took the same class or had any proof that the official record was wrong.

This in essence is what the SBVT did - Kerry had over 100 pages of Navy records on his web site - the fitness reports spanned the entire interval and they were universally excellent. (No one year gaps like Bush's) One interesting document was an approval for a higher security clearance obtained for Kerry at the end of his VN days because it was needed for his job in the US with th eadmiral he was assigned to. Does it make sense that some of the SBVT attested to Kerry's suitability to get this.

The reality though was that it hurt Kerry and even though it may be legit to say that the media should have played fair they didn't. Kerry admits that they should have fought back harder.

[_dynamicdems]

89. He doesn't have to be like them to win in 2008.

Anyone who tries that will lose. People are seeing the Repugs for what they are and getting down and dirty will be a big mistake IMO.

Kerry is tough. He's always been tough. He didn't lie down after the election and he's not going to fold. They threw everything they had at him and people aren't going to listen to the same tired arguements anymore. Remember what a scumbag Guiliani was before 911? That was forgotten once he was the hero of the moment and also because it was old news.

What can they use against Kerry in 2008? Flip-Flopping? LOL! They wouldn't DARE this time around because the Repugs have been flipping and flopping all over the place. I've been keeping a list and checking it twice: http://www.dynamicdems.com/flipflophalloffame.htm
Kerry has never changed his principles, only his method. He's always had the same principles. These guys are not only changing their position, they are changing their principles. What else could they use: SwiftBoating? It has become a joke after they went after others like Murtha. No, people are pretty disgusted by Swiftboating and they aren't gonna be fooled twice. If Kerry runs, he will have one of the cleanest slates ever in a candidate.

On the other hand, can you imagine what they would do to Hillary Clinton or some of the other potential Democratic candidates. I cringe at the tought. They really can't hurt Kerry anymore, but they are forming strategies for each of the others to be sure. THAT'S why Kerry would make a damn good candidate. He's untouchable this time around.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

72. this answer is ESPECIALLY for non-freepers like you killerbush

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x2561547

[MrTriumph]

23. Bad strategy: The Dem. Nat'l Convention & Kerry's campaign.

The convention went 'positive' and gave R's a pass. When the swift boaters smeared Kerry, he campaign did not immediately strike back.



Kerry had his chance.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

24. does that mean he should never be president?

Republicans can forgive their DC critters for ANYTHING it seems. Can the far left forgive a true Patriot for listening to his advisers who were wrong?

Why not say who you want for president Mr Triumph, no one will bash you too bad for supporting small slippery critters or snakes in the grass...

[MH1]

31. Heh heh

love those pics. Apropos, too.

[welshTerrier2]

37. "Can the far left forgive a true Patriot"

stop blaming the "far left" ... why do you assume that people who "will not forgive Kerry" are the "far left" ... do you really know what their politics are?

most of those who "will not forgive Kerry" are more likely supporting other candidates and most who support other candidates right now rather than focussing on issues like the war, the theft of our government by mega-corporation and big money, and the abysmal failure to create jobs and address issues like poverty, racism and discrimination against gays are probably NOT the "far left" ...

stop scapegoating the "far left" when you have no justification for doing so ...

[TankLV]

50. No - this "moderate" will always supprt a true patriot, not a QUITTER!

Unlike some here who have an irrational LOVE AFFAIR for him.

Don't get me wrong, I like him - IN THE SENATE.

He just doesn't have "it" - what "it" takes to SUCCEED at becomming President.

[Patchuli]

83. He should have fought, JG

that is what was needed and expected. But that's been discussed adequately. I would trust him to run on a ticket under Al Gore. Gore is many times over a better speaker, is strong and I think, the senior statesman. I think Kerry would be a fine pick for VP though. The environment would be important to both of them as it should be to everyone. I also know we'd go back to the use of diplomacy instead of hamfisted arrogance. I am terrified the Chicken-in-Chief is going to start another war.

Yep, Gore/Kerry with Feingold and Boxer in key positions. That's the ticket.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

155. he has always fought for america and always will

if you want to find a future anti-war activist, look under a helmut. Kerry will end this war faster than anyone in DC. He couldn't afford to come right out and say that before but it's what he wanted, even then.

[MH1]

30. Bad strategy.

Bench the experienced player and play a rookie?

[kestrel91316]

96. Yep. And Nixon lost to Kennedy. That sure ended HIS presidential

aspirations, right?

[Dr Ron]

137. Once a Loser, Always a Loser--Not

As you said, Nixon lost to Kennedy. He looked like an even bigger loser after losing in California.

Ronald Reagan lost to Gerald Ford, but he still ran and won.

John McCain lost to George Bush, but he is now the front runner.

Barry Goldwater lost very badly. Republicans treat him like a hero for the battle he fought.

Perhaps the Republicans know something about winning that Democrats don't know.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

156. perhaps they know how to kiss up to ultra-rich power brokers

and then after they take the "help" pay them back with their souls and the lives of our children.

[fedupinBushcountry]

38. So I guess

if a pitcher in a world series lost 1 game by 1-0, you would say he doesn't deserve another chance, although he lost by an unearned run. You would say NOPE he lost once , he's done. Well say that pitcher did come in again and he won the game and that game won the team the series. Would you have given that pitcher that chance?

Whats to say it will happen again?

[DanCa]

27. Awesome song .

I think Kerry should run again. To all the nay sayers and to all the people who didn't vote for him I ask you this question. Would Senator Kerry have appointed Sam Alito to the Supreme Court? I think not.

[Raiden]

28. God no! He blew it last time

He promised he wouldn't give up for our sake, but then he fucking conceded. I won't ever forget that. After Hurricane Katrina, Civil War in Iraq, Bush vs. Iran, corporate plundering, and all the other shit that's went down since Bush began his second term, I'm very glad that Kerry still has his pride and didn't get his hands dirty fighting for what really mattered. :sarcasm:

He let us down when he didn't contest the election results. He really hasn't been a leader since then as far as I'm concerned. He hasn't really done anything to expose Diebold and election fraud, has he? Feingold has led the movement to censure Bush, while Kerry has still consistently been found with his finger in the air. I want a real leader in the White House. Kerry's campaign was HORRIBLE. He allowed the Swift Boat attacks to destroy his image and by the time his campaign got on damage control, the damage had already been done and Kerry's campaign was already mortally wounded as far as the American public was concerned. And Gore will not get my support, all because he selected Jr. Bushbot Joementum for his running mate in 2000. With that track record...

Besides, I think once you've lost a national campaign for the presidency you shouldn't get another shot. That's just me, though. So no Kerry, no Gore. Let's give Clark, Feingold, Edwards, hell even Hillary (and Biden LOL) a chance to run. They couldn't do any worse than Kerry did IMO---except Biden. Could you imagine the debates? "Privatizing Social Security...Oh yeah, that's a great idea, I never thought about that!" or "I like you!".

[TankLV]

51. One word for you - NIXON.

So much for your "once they "lose" argument.

And, you don't know what you are talking about regarding Katrina, and all the other things you've listed.

If you'd paid half the attention you claim, you would know that Kerry has been VERY out front and VOCAL regarding these issues. I bet you don't even know that he FLEW PLANES DOWN TO NEW ORLEANS with his own money to DELIVER SUPPLIES! Without any grandstanding like the WAR Crimnial in OUR White House - we're still waiting for his photo-op promises!

I don't think he should run again - but for a few sound valid reasons - not the bull you're peddling. Stop repeating repuke spin. You don't know what you are talking about.

[Raiden]

98. I wouldn't cite Nixon when referring to Democratic leaders...

I never said it is impossible for someone to win the presidency once they've already lost it before, I said I would rather give someone else a chance. Kerry is fine in the Senate. Don't try and turn my arguments into a straw man. I never said he hasn't done anything regarding Katrina or anything else for that matter--I basically said imagine how different things would be if Kerry hadn't conceded and he was president right now instead of Bush.

I told myself after he conceded that Kerry would never have my trust again. I stayed up late election night bubbling with pride when I learned that Kerry planned "to fight until the last vote was counted." I woke up the next day hopeful that Kerry would keep his promise, but he didn't. Four more years of Bush so Kerry could be the 'bigger man'

[TankLV]

144. Regarding Katrina, you alleged as much, if not directly saying so.

"Didn't get his hands dirty" indeed.

He was up to his elbows in filth created by the REPUKE neglect and incompetance - and without ANY self serving publicity.

Nice try, but no sell. You imply that he did nothing. It's all there for us to read.

[Raiden]

147. Re-read my post before you jump to conclusions

Let me repeat what I said earlier...

"After Hurricane Katrina, Civil War in Iraq, Bush vs. Iran, corporate plundering, and all the other shit that's went down since Bush began his second term, I'm very glad that Kerry still has his pride and didn't get his hands dirty fighting for what really mattered."

I was referring to him not contesting the election results, not about him doing nothing about Katrina. I was making the point that had Kerry contested the election and came out on top, Katrina, Iraq, Iran, etc. may not have turned out so bad. President Kerry would have changed a lot, obviously.

"I'm very glad that Kerry still has his pride and didn't get his hands dirty fighting for what really mattered." - I was referring to Kerry's reluctance to contest the results and nothing else with this statement. Don't put words in my mouth. :eyes:

[FrenchieCat]

33. Whoever is running again, running for the first time, or ain't never gonna

run in 2008, I say Kewl! The more leaders, the more betta'!:thumbsup:

Now I do hope that the "would be's", "were", and "wannabees" Presidents are all doing as much as they can to make sure that 2006 is a successful election for the Democrats and that they are focused much more on that than on talking so much about the "ME, ME, ME, I have the plan, I know what to do, I said it first, make me your leader" stuff. They'll be more than plenty of time for the grandstanding and the "my plan is better than your plan" routines.

Right now, The American people and the Democratic Party don't so much need "A" leader as much as they need as many "LEADERS" as possible....I mean PLURAL, i.e., the Democratic Party should be working to be seen as the party of "LEADERS"....cause that's the only way the voters are going to put us back in charge of the congress.

So I'm all for Kerry and "his" plan....and I'm all for Biden and "his" plan.....I just hope that these plans include making sure that "they" are not complicating the congressional races of Democratic candidates by making them
have to choose "which Plan" the candidates back when the media asks them that question. Many candidates have tough enough races as it is without the Democrats dividing themselves in being compeled to "follow A leader"....when following or even choosing a Democratic leader is not what 2006 is even about!

The Dems HAVE TO be as united as possible going into the 2006 season, because whomever divides them will also be the reason that we fall, 2008 politics be damned!

[Jeffersons Ghost]

39. Here it is in his words

March 11, 2006 JOHN KERRY said, "Don't let anyone tell you Democrats don't know what we stand for. We know who we are and we know what's worth fighting for. Let me tell you how Democrats will lead if you give us the chance in 2006," Kerry said at the first joint dinner for the Nashua City Democrats and the Hillsborough County Democrats at the Nashua Country Club.

"Here's what we'll do. Tell the truth. Find Osama bin Laden and secure our ports. Stop subsidizing big oil and start investing in energy alternatives. Make access to affordable health care a right and not a privilege. Fight for American jobs that restore the American dream. Obey the law and protect our civil rights. Fire incompetents and restore competence and integrity to Washington."


John Kerry has emerged "fired up" and ready to champion the 59,000,000 voters who supported him in his bid for President. As the new voice of the Democratic party Kerry vows to continue the fight he began during the campaign, giving voice to the values of hard working middle class America.

Kerry also asserts his political muscle by fundraising and working hard to win back seats for the Democrats in 2006. In forming a new PAC, which currently raises funds for several Iraq/ Afghanistan Veterans running for office, he indicates his ability to win the seats Democrats so desperately need. His success in this area may be the first indicator if he is a viable contender for 2008. Much has been made of his 2.7 million person email list of supporters. Can he maintain this support network and actively engage them to help his party and progressive causes?

Can Kerry win in 2008?
If Kerry stays relevant in his party and becomes a champion for those opposing the Bush agenda, then by all means Kerry deserves another shot in 2008.

While mistakes where made by his campaign, Kerry received more votes than ANY other Democrat in history against a war time president, coming within one state (Ohio) of the winning the Presidency. One could argue that in an open race in 2008, Kerry might even have an advantage as he has experience running a large campaign along with a battle tested staff more prepared to win the big election. Sure changes should be made, and strategy adjusted, but costly mistakes like not responding to the Swift Boat Liars could be avoided and challenged immediately.

[FrenchieCat]

42. Thanks.....

and include a link, when you have a chance....as that is always nice!

I like his words, but hate the wording of the rest of that article (which I'm sure he had no control over)....

John Kerry has emerged "fired up" and ready to champion the 59,000,000 voters who supported him in his bid for President.
I know that big John is always "fired up".


As the new voice of the Democratic party Kerry vows to continue the fight he began during the campaign, giving voice to the values of hard working middle class America.
John Kerry is NOT the new voice of the Democratic party, he is one of the many constant voices of the Democratic party. :eyes:


Kerry also asserts his political muscle by fundraising and working hard to win back seats for the Democrats in 2006. In forming a new PAC, which currently raises funds for several Iraq/ Afghanistan Veterans running for office, he indicates his ability to win the seats Democrats so desperately need. His success in this area may be the first indicator if he is a viable contender for 2008. Much has been made of his 2.7 million person email list of supporters.Can he maintain this support network and actively engage them to help his party and progressive causes?

Thank Goodness that Kerry will assert what he can in order to win seats back for 2006....and it shouldn't even be predicated on any success other than winning 2006....not whether that will "show" that he is a "viable" candidate for 2008.


PS. I realize that John Kerry didn't write that article (so I don't fault him)....

[AmericanDream]

34. I like him, but nope... he's not getting my support for another go nt

[New Earth]

36. i will truly hate to come to DU

around election time if he is running. i say watch out for all the new trolls likely to pop up in the next few days due to Kerry's mention of running agian. :scared: :eyes:

[Bush_Eats_Beef]

41. It's not just the trolls.

If I were scoring the "civil discussion" of Kerry's 2004 campaign on DU, I'd give it a C-.

There was no shortage of people who would rush to post "Shut the F**K, UP, Kerry KNOWS WHAT HE'S DOING" in response to the SLIGHTEST criticism of ANY aspect of the campaign.

Once I posted that I had called his campaign office to address some concerns that I had and a fellow DUer attempted to tear me a new one, admonishing me at length and telling me that by calling I had "taken that person away from MORE IMPORTANT WORK."

"Trolls"...whether they are "long-term lurkers" or "new trolls"...are a problem for DU, but they are not the only problem. Sometimes people with 1000+ posts and a gold star and their own blog outside of DU are a problem too.

The mods do their best with maintaining civility on the forums but sometimes...especially in peak traffic times like elections...the "experts" are given a lot of grazing room. They wander from thread to thread and attack whatever veers from their "world view."

"Disagreement" and "discussion" are healthy...that's free speech. Telling someone to "Shut the F**K UP" and keep their opinions to themselves is the sign of a child whose momma didn't spank him / her enough. I've heard people say "politics can get very emotional," and I have a "Church Lady" response to that..."Well...isn't that SPECIAL?" Emotion is no excuse for a lack of respect. We were ALL emotional. Who the hell wanted to see George W. Bush in a second term?

I voted for Kerry, I worked toward getting Kerry elected, I donated money to Kerry's campaign at a time when it was not an easy thing for me to do. Based on what happened in 2004, I can't envision him becoming the 2008 Democratic candidate. I can see him throwing his hat in the ring, but I can't see him on the ticket. If I'm wrong, and he's our candidate, HOPEFULLY...and I don't say this with a great deal of optimism, based on the last election...but HOPEFULLY we'll treat each other with a little more respect than we did the last time.

I'm sure that what I've just said will rub some people the wrong way, but I was here when it happened and I have a good memory.

:patriot:

[bumblebee1]

107. George W Bush in a second term?

I didn't want to see George W Bush in a first term let alone a second term. Something about Bush screamed out the word "Idiot" when he ran back in 2000.

[sandnsea]

62. The trolls will bash anybody

It's their job. Some of them truly get paid to do it, and not by any of our friends.

[Brigid]

40. Saw Him

Saw him on Wolf Blitzer today. I liked him before, and I still like him. I think he should have another chance.

[iconoclastNYC]

43. He won't be the DLC blessed anti-Dean candidate this time.

So we won't win the nomination.

[IndyOp]

44. Please post again when he pledges in public, on camera

TO REQUIRE A HAND RECOUNT OF ALL VOTES ACROSS THE NATION WHETHER HE LOSES, DRAWS, OR WINS!?!?!

HE FOLDED. After he told people he was concerned about election fraud and about how he 'had our backs.' Bull Shit, Senator.

How many people have died because Kerry would not defend OUR win?

Gore fought for over a month alone to get back his stolen election. :patriot:

KERRY FOLDED WITHIN 48 HOURS.

:grr: :mad: :nuke: :grr: :mad: :nuke: :grr: :mad: :nuke:

[the other one]

45. Its a bad thing because

He was a default candidate last time around. He was not a popular choice, he was a (running as a) centrist, and "the party" concluded that Kerry was the best hope to beat Bush. And he did, but he didn't carry the recount fight. If he didn't fight for our votes then, why would he fight for us if he actually won?

[bvar22]

46. I agree. Unfortunately, Kerry is running again.

His latest flip-flop on Iraq (adopting Murtha's plan for withdrawal) indicate that he has his sails trimmed to catch national opinion (polls), not leading the Nation.
Kerry is a GREAT senator from Mass, NOT a good presidential candidate.

[ProSense]

52. Not true!

Mrutha introduce his plan in November, after Kerry's Path Forward speech in October. That speech is consistent with what he has always said. No permanent presence, train Iraqis and get out:

Kerry accuses Bush of ‘colossal error’ in Iraq

Bush promises not to let up in the war on terrorism

MSNBC
Updated: 11:16 a.m. ET Oct. 1, 2004

CORAL GABLES, Fla. - Sen. John Kerry assailed President Bush’s prosecution of the war in Iraq in the first presidential debate Thursday night, accusing the president of “a colossal error of judgment” as the candidates finally faced each other after a torrent of speeches and hostile television advertisements.

Snip...

“I will make a flat statement: The United States of America has no long-term designs on staying in Iraq,” he said. “... That’s how we’re going to win the peace, by rapidly training the Iraqis themselves.”

Snip...

But Kerry said it was Bush who was sending conflicting messages.

“He misled the American people when he said we’d go to war as a last resort,” Kerry said. “We did not go as a last resort. And most Americans know the difference.”

Snip...

“Iraq was not even close to the center of the war on terror before the president invaded it,” Kerry said, adding later, “Saddam Hussein didn’t attack us. Osama bin Laden attacked us.”


http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6123725?GT1=5100

John Kerry Speaks Out on Iraq, Details Concrete Steps President Must Take to Rescue the Mission
28 June 2005 - Floor Speech


http://blog.thedemocraticdaily.com/?page_id=230
http://blog.thedemocraticdaily.com/?page_id=231


Kerry Email on Iraq
28 June 2005
http://blog.thedemocraticdaily.com/?page_id=232


Salon: What Would Kerry Do?
28 June 2005
http://blog.thedemocraticdaily.com/?page_id=233

[bvar22]

56. There is a phrase for those unable to see the difference....

...between Kerry's NEW Plan for redeployment, and his OLD plan for :
a)2005- withdrawal AFTER benchmarks

and even older plan:
B)2004- Win the War in Iraq.

The phrase for people who cannot see the difference is "Blind Political Partisan".

Kerry's NEW plan agrees closely with Murtha's, which Kerry DID NOT SUPPORT at that time.
Public opinion has changed since then, so has Kerry's position.

Continue to follow camps if that makes you comfortable, or take off the blinders.

Edited to add: I am delighted that JK has taken up his new position basically calling for immediate withdrawal.
I welcome him to our side.
I am also delighted that he has found a clear voice to directly confront the Bush*/Republicans.
My opinion is unchanged:
Kerry is a GREAT liberal Senator, but a poor presidential candidate.

[ProSense]

59. Kerry's plans state out by the end of 2006. An ultimatum is great! n/t

[karynnj]

128. Kerry on the floor of the Senate said that he and others have

put together and offered multiple plans. This was in the response to Allard. He was responding to the constant complaint that they had no plans - he spoke of offering plans as the situation got constantly worse. I would expect plans to change if situations worsened.

Kerry's current position is NOT immediate withdrawal, nor is it Murtha's plan. From his statements the desired path under Kerry's plan if Bush accepted it would be that the Iraqis would create a government and work with the surrounding countries to reach some level of stability.

[Dr Ron]

140. Kerry's Best Advice on the War

At different times under different circumstances it makes sense to have differences in the specifics of the plan.

Before the war, his advice was to use the threat of force to achieve a diplomatic solution, and not to go to war.

During the war, he has concententrated on finding ways to get out.

But the advice from Kerry which I liked the best was right at the onse of the war, when John Kerry called for regime change in the United States in protest.

[Sooner75]

69. My assessment also

Kerry needs to stick with his seat in the Senate. As a presidential candidate, he's way too weak away from his Northeast Blue State base.

In 2008, we need to get focused on electoral math from the get-go. Show me how you've got a real shot at capturing 270 electoral votes or go home and shut up.

In 2004 as November approached, it seemed to me that the Kerry campaign was in retreat in some important states like Missouri. The electoral 270 was already slipping away. In 2008, I want the Republican to be retreating out of "unwinnable" states not the Democrat. Kerry's just NOT that guy.

[LittleClarkie]

133. Flip flop my ass. Circumstances changed. So did then his opinion.

or do you prefer a big strong Texas president who never changes his mind? Yessiree they're so much better on national defense because they never take stock of the facts and re-adjust their policy. So much better to be steadfast and wrong, innit then to change course.

God I hate that term. I had to hear it WAY too much from Republicans, and God knows I REALLY don't need to hear it from people who are supposed to be on my side. No wonder we didn't get more votes if some of the people out there campaigning for the man in 2004 didn't even understand him.

He is promoting a Murtha-like plan because he now sees the situation in Iraq as near hopeless. There was some hope right after their election. It's gone now.

Allard, a Republican, suggested what you are, and the top nearly blew off of John's head. He says bring the troops home now because he sees no hope and doesn't want them to die for nothing if the Iraqis won't form a government. As he said to Allard, nobody spins his support for the troops into a political game. Period.

He is thinking of running. That's been common knowledge for a while now, WAY before this change of heart. He has a leadership PAC and has been to NH and IA. So his current stance on Iraq isn't an indication of anything we didn't know before.

Kerry knows our first priority, regardless of his plans, is to get through 2006 first. He's working to get the candidates of 2006 elected. Sounds like a good idea to me. So how about we focus on that?

[robinlynne]

49. no ***ing way. He hasn't even counted the 2004 votes yet!

We all went to the streets, registered voters, tried to rpotet elections, many friends of mine left their jobs to fight for kerry last time around. He SWORE he would see every vote counted. He did not. He handed this country over to the republicnas, and I really do not care why. He did not have that right! It was not for him that we worked. Itw as against Bush. It was for democracy. How dare he walk away from the Ohio cote count? How dare he even think of running. He does not have the right to even consider it. He needs to get those votes counted in Ohio, still uncounted. Put his money where his mouth is, expose what happened in 2004 and clear the way for another candidate. THAT would be in the interest of our country. not kerry as candidate. I admire what he is doing as a senator. that's great. But he already won one election and walked away. Who the hell does he think he is?

[Strathos]

53. Unless he sprouted some balls,

I hope he isn't.

It's a gentleman's game to him, nothing more.

That's why he and Shrub are still buddies.

[ProSense]

55. We need brains. Bush has been using his balls as policy. n/t

[FrenchieCat]

58. We have brains.....all over the place in the Democratic Party.....

and some brainy folks are even running for offices throughout the land, right now, as we speak!
Shouldn't we concentrate some love on them?

If so.....then check this out....and keep the thread floating....
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=2561018&mesg_id=2561018

[ProSense]

60. I don't dispute that. n/t

[saracat]

91. He and shrub are not now nor ever have been buddies. Do you read or listen

at all? Kery loathes Bush and it is obvious.

[windbreeze]

108. He may loathe *, but.....

I watched two interviews, one with Kerry, one with *....they were both asked the same exact question....about Skull and Bones....strangely, they BOTH gave the same answer, in exactly the same demeanor...even to emitting chuckles in the same spot in their response....so....I am awful sorry....but I don't believe for one minute that they loathe one another....they swear an oath of loyalty to one another in order to belong to Skull/Bones right... you know...that none of the members will do anything that brings harm to one of the others, no matter what.....

Nothing Kerry said when he was running, had as much of an impact on me, as watching those two seperate interviews....the realization that he had anything, and I mean, anything, in common with *...literally MADE ME ILL, but also raised a lot of questions in my mind...such as how far that oath of loyalty goes....then he bailed out in Ohio, and kept somewhere around $15 million in campaign money....uh uh...not again..
windbreeze

[saracat]

113. I guess people who have no familiarity with fraternities will

be suceptible to believing anything that they are told by conspiracy theorists. Sorry but the "S and B" theory is so stupid that I no longer even wast my breath explaining it. For some, ignorance is bliss.

[Strathos]

117. Indeed?

Your words could mean the same thing pointed in your direction.

[saracat]

122. I think not.

[Strathos]

115. It hasn't been obvious to me

The laughed and shook hands and patted each other's backs at the debates. Kerry did not battle for the election or do anything about the fraud.

[karynnj]

130. That is traditional behavior at the beginning and end of the debates

The alledged fraud has still not been legally proven. I honestly don't know how you couldn't see a jubilant but clearly exhausted Kerry still doing interviews on election day. He and his entire family worked as hard as they could - their are pictures of the gigantic rallies at the end.

Kerry is a diplomat - he is not going to even thing of refusing to shake hands with the President - which is good as boorish behavior would have lost him votes. There was nothing in Kerry's behavior or words that suggest he ever for a minute liked Bush.

[bee]

54. great. here comes the new thing same as the old thing.

& how will people feel if he just throws in the towel again. Fool me once shame on you. I only voted for him last time because I had no other choice. Same will be true if he runs again.

[Cobalt Violet]

70. Hillary sucks!

[bee]

74. agreed. n/t

[Strathos]

116. Amen! I won't vote for him again

and I won't vote at all if he's the only choice on our side.

[ProSense]

118. Well that settles it. n/t

[HuffleClaw]

57. i can't believe he's that deluded.

mr. waffle, won't stand up when it matters ?

he's dreaming.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

73. here's your response HuffleClaw

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x2561547

[sandnsea]

63. Where'd all these posters come from??

I haven't even seen most of them before. It's weird, any time a Dem comes out with a strong position, up pops all these people you never see any other time. Hmmm.

[bee]

64. umm. yeah.

You should be suspect of those who maybe dont want a repeat of '04. :eyes:
Do you honestly think someone who left many Dems feeling let-down is the way to energize the party?
I dont. Its not just about his positions. More-so its left-over disappointment. It's kinda like re-trusting someone that cheated on you. You love 'em but....

[sandnsea]

65. haha

Yeah, nice set of talking points there. Like I said. Not all of us buy, so's you know.

[bee]

66. gimme a break.

No Dems still feel let-down over '04? Is that what youre saying? Just so Im clear. Anyone who suggests such a thing gets accused of being a troll?

[sandnsea]

90. Are Dems a bunch of 2 year olds?

Whaaa, we didn't win, whaaa, my widddle feewings are permanently broken, whaaa.

I think not.

[bee]

105. You know what? Youre right.

My whining, thumb-sucking friends who worked for Kerry full time in '04 are either freepers, trolls, or idiots not at all justified in their opinion. Screw them. No one gave them permission to feel let down that he didnt fight. REAL Dems couldnt possibly feel like that. Real Dems know better. If the issue doesnt make us happy we'll pretend it doesnt exist. And we'll jump all over everyone dumb enough to bring it up. The opinions of all such people should be dismissed without consideration & under no circumstance is the issue worthy of rational conversation. After all, who better to shun than people who supported the man once already. He wont need those votes this time around. Theyre all secretly republicans anyway.
:sarcasm: :sarcasm: :sarcasm: :sarcasm: :sarcasm: :sarcasm:

I concede. You win.

[sandnsea]

106. You know what, I am right

The real Dems I know quit whining about losing a long time ago and are either involved in their own elections or campaigning for someone else's election this fall.

[Strathos]

157. Excuse me! I feel completely let down by Kerry

That is why he'll never get my vote again.

[stepnw1f]

76. Yup...

I make a note of it each time.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

78. DON'T WORRY THE CALVARY IS COMING I HOPE

We'll soon see what happens... I just this minute tried to attract some support from another DU message board. We need to develop some freeper-proofing measures before Nov gets closer. Did you guys see my other thread about Kerry on this board? I hope it will fix a few trolls and maybe help some true-blues get over reservations about Big John.

[stepnw1f]

81. Oh Yes I Did

and man, did anti-Kerry posts just come out of the wood work.

[_dynamicdems]

75. Thank you! This really brightened my spirits today.

While Senator Kerry has not announced that he plans to run for the Presidency in 2008, there is hope among many of those who supported him in 2004 and among scores of new Kerrycrats that John Kerry will indeed decide to run. Across the country, we are gearing up to side with Senator Kerry in whatever choice he makes because we need to our country back and our "Shadow President" will be leading the charge in one capacity or another. JK hasn't missed a beat since Black Tuesday in 2004. He hasn't stopped fighting for us and he still has our back. Senator Kerry is our best hope to lead the fight for the America we love, the America that has been stolen by the corrupt and the dishonorable.

These sites are all unofficial, personal pages created by people who love John Kerry and believe he is the best hope to get our country back on track. Should the Senator decide to throw his hat in the ring, he will make many of us very happy.

We still love you, John! Kerry on America!
http://www.dynamicdems.com/2008_election.htm

[stepnw1f]

77. Right Behind You John

Just win the primary and I'm there with ya.

[DearAbby]

80. I would be happy to back Big John Kerry

I believe in this man, He listens to the people. He stood for the people against all odds in the senate. He has had our back, and I will gladly step up to take his.

Kerry/Gore or Kerry/Feingold.

I believe the phoenix ticket. Kerry/Gore would carry alot of weight. The two people that had the win in their grasp that was stolen away.

I believe Kerry has what it takes to be an awesome President. I just feel it in my gut... I will glady back the ticket that has his name on it.

[stepnw1f]

82. He's Done Well for Massachusetts

I know... I live here.

[Old and In the Way]

84. If he wins the primaries, I'll be happy to support him.

He'll probably be my choice in the primaries. I suspect that he'll address voting problems, but he needs us to watch his back there. We need to take some responsibility to assure that our elections are honest. No single person can fight this battle alone.

[Jane Austin]

85. Am I the only one who thought Kerry didn't do so great on MTP?

I thought he started off weak by disputing Russert's election percentages and later he used a poor choice for quoting Pappy Bush on leakers being traitors, in that the quote was about leaking an agent's name.

Of course Timmeh came right back and said that this wasn't about Bush leaking her name, and everybody promptly forgot the punch of Kerry's point.

If you're going to use an example, don't use one that gives any hooks for your adversary to latch onto and use to defuse your argument.

I also don't just think it's swell when he says that he made mistakes, he learned from them, and that they are his mistakes (so he's not going to discuss them with anybody) and he takes "full responsibility" for them. What does that mean?

They may have been his mistakes, but it's our future that is in peril because of those mistakes. It's not all OK now.

Kerry had 30 minutes on a big deal national TV show to state his case, and I though he could have been a lot better.

After MTP, we switched over to C-Span2, where Mark Crispin Miller recounted Kerry's backing away from any hint that election irregularites in Ohio cost him the election.

[saracat]

92. Baloney.

And Crispin Miller is a self serving opportunist. I suppose Crispin Miller doesn't credit any of the efforts Kerry made with the Greens regarding Ohio or any of the cases he brought to court. But whatever. You will believe what you want.

[Jane Austin]

99. I'm not entitled to my opinion?

I watched MTP hoping that Kerry would do well. I've always hoped he would do well.

I thought today he came up short.

BTW, when he mentioned a lawsuit in San Francisco conderning AOL turning over emails to the government - - is AOL doing this, too, in addition to ATT?

I don't have any reason to think ill of Mark Crispin Miller, or to think he is any more self-serving than any other author.

Perhaps Kerry has made a statement about the Ohio irregularites and I haven't heard about it.

By the way, you don't know me or anything about me, so you have no cause to say "You will believe what you want."

I'm actually kind of a fanatic about the truth, and I like lots of evidence before I decide what to believe.

There is no reason to assume that I am your enemy just because I thought Kerry wasn't as good as he could be this morning.

(Edited to add a sentence.)

[Mass]

100. You're both entitled to your opinion. She disagrees with you.

Or are you saying that nobody can challenge what you said.

BTW, I saw it and I agree with her. Kerry was very good and Timmy was an asshole.

But of course, feel free to disagree.

And I really dont care what MCM says. Why should I care? I happen to think he is missing the most important issue. The GOP is in fact delighted when he speaks because less people go to vote, which is exactly what they want. He should be fighting so that MORE people go to vote. This way, even if the machines are flawed, it would not be that easy to cheat. He should be fighting for voting rights for at least some felons who have done their time (this is a major form of disenfranchisment) and he should be fighting for votes to occur on a holiday. When these actions will be taken, it will be time to talk about the rest.

To answer to your question, Kerry has made SEVERAL statements about these issues and has even co-sponsored a bill that ask for these reforms and for a papertrack for electronic votes. I am sure MCM did not say that.

[Jane Austin]

103. I'd love to see what Kerry has said about voting reforms.

Can you direct me or give me a link?

Thanks.

[Orsino]

87. I will vote against the Republicans...

...barring the sudden appearance of a Dem who is somehow more corrupt.

I'd like to vote for John Kerry, but he has failed so many times to vote for me, or to look out for my best interests. He seems a pretty decent guy. It's a shame he's in a system that enforces subjugation to corporate money.

He could run on ending the war, but the war is just the bloodiest and most obvious symptom of creeping corporate fascism. If only Kerry would come out against our real enemy.

[Cobalt Violet]

88. Kerry "08.

:bounce: :kick:

[high density]

94. ??? So he lost with "anybody but Bush" votes...

... but he thinks he should try it again even without the ABB factor? After August 2004 where he sat around and let Rove sink his campaign? THAT was the time to come out with the big guns, but instead nothing happened and we got blessed with four more years of Bush that we can't afford. His ego is scaring me at the moment because it seems to be clouding any common sense or basic math skills that he has.

[Ron Mexico]

109. Further, let's not forget that the next Repub candidate

can't possibly be as bad a debater as Bush. Kerry lost an election he should have won easily - how was the election that close in the first place after four years of Bush and three one-sided debates?

A Repug that's better at smiling and promising us the moon than Bush is (and that would be all of them) would give Kerry more trouble, and won't have the ABB vote to rely on. Voters not too in touch who are happy to see Bush go might just stay home.

I feel bad for Kerry too, but I want to win. I can't afford to trust him again. Do I think he could beat George Allen? No - but Mark Warner could.

Senator Kerry, PLEASE don't run again.

[sendero]

97. He never stopped running..

.... and therein lies the problem.

[Mass]

101. Nice post.

Sadly, DU has too many people who cant respect other people's view, unfortunately.

This is no more a discussion forum. This is a shouting (shooting may be more appropriate for some) match.

[OhioBlue]

102. I have great respect for John Kerry

I hope he does run again. I'll see how the primary discussions go and make my choice then, he may be my choice in the primary, maybe not. But should he win the primary, I will be delighted to give my support and volunteer efforts to him to win in '08!

He got some bad advice from his campaign - yes. But, as far as Ohio goes, the fact of the matter is 1. the Republicans were MUCH better organized. They GOTV better, they have built the grassroots for years. There were many Dem activists that gave everything they had for the campaign, but the Republicans were entrenched. We have to build now for the '06 AND the '08 elections. and 2. Ken Blackwell screwed with the vote. He knew it would be close enough that his shortage of election machines and long lines, disputes over provisional ballots, and requiring a certain weight of paper for voter registration forms would make a difference. I also believe there were a few votes flipped - which gave Bush the Presidency.

[Name removed]

111. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[wiley]

104. The only good thing about Kerry running

is that it will draw 28 Repukes into the race.

[lonestarnot]

110. "I'm taking a hard look at it."

[PaDem]

114. Damaged goods.

It's gonna take a relatively fresh face to win in 2008. Not Kerry, not Hillary and probably not Gore. I'd love to see a Kerry or Gore Presidency but firmly believe that neither has much chance of winning.

For me 2008 is all about winning. If we don't have control of either the house or the senate (preferrably both) and a President with a (D) in front of their name in February of 2009, there will be wailing and gnashing of teeth in America.

[politicasista]

121. That fresh face better know how to walk, talk, and chew gum

on domestic and foreign affairs at the same time in order to clean up this mess once this incopetent criminal is out of office.

[karynnj]

125. The primaries will decide

In a year or so, we will see which issues are most important. The candiates will all being offering their plans for them. People will select the person they trust most as candidate and as President.

I actually believe Gore when he says he's not running. He's clearly happier and more free to be himself in the role he has carved out. If he decided to run, he could be a compromise candidate. The media and the party are pushing Hillary - but it's not clear how she will come across as a candidate out there every day. I wouldn't rule her out.

Kerry has the gravitas, the intelligence and the ability to she solutions when others don't. His demeanor is that of a very calm, supporitive, Father type person - which might play well after the chaos. I definitely wouldn't rule him out.

Most of the new candidates have done very little to excite many people. Only time will show if any can convince enough people to back them. Personaly I like some (without knowing enough) - like Feingold; Some I have already rejected as people I would support in the primary - even if Kerry doesn't run - such as Biden.

[LittleClarkie]

134. So much better to eternally chase after the magically new thing

then to ever take advantage of experience. Bah.

[Dr Ron]

139. The face won't stay very fresh

Sure he's damaged goods, but any Democrat will be damaged by right wing noise machine.

A fresh face is easier to damage as the public knows little about them.

To win, we need a multi-year campaign. Someone can't win the nomination in the spring of 2008 and then be ready to prevent the Republican noise machine from defining them. We need someone who is prominent enought to spend the next few years defining themselves in the public's mind so that when the win the nomination people will know them on the candidate's terms, not the Republicans. Plus it helps to have someone who has experienced a national campaign first hand.

[0007]

123. Kerry is a goddamn good man. I like him!

[Vektor]

126. I hope he does run again!

Not only is he my fave candidate by far...but seeing him on TV everyday...

[mac56]

127. Not to split hairs, but...

"Big Bad John" was a hit for Jimmy Dean, not Johnny Cash.

Otherwise, I love your post. :thumbsup:

Carry on.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

135. yep your right

Obviously I couldn't remember the lyrics and the first site Google listed attributed the song to Johnny Cash. http://www.lyrics007.com/Johnny%20Cash%20Lyrics/Big%20Bad%20John%20Lyrics.html

I should know better than to trust the internet!

[LittleClarkie]

129. That's been pretty much common knowledge for a while now

He has all the tell-tales: a leadership PAC and trips to NH and IA and all.

[SaveElmer]

132. Running again might not be a bad idea for him...two reasons...

1. There may be quite a bit of buyers remorse going on...people wishing they had voted for Kerry. He may be able to tap into that..

2. There is something to be said for experience running at the Presidential level. It used to be quite common for politicians to run more than once. An argument could be made that the experience he gained the first time around would make him better prepared than any other candidate to deal with what the Republicans throw at him (although I would argue Hillary has that experience as well)

Altogether not a terrible idea...I would consider it if I were him too...

[Dr Ron]

136. Agree re experience for both Kerry and Clinton

I just had a post at the Democratic Daily yesterday regarding the value of such experience. While I prefer Kerry over Hillary, I did include Hillary in the group with this experience (along with Gore, and to a lesser degree Edwards running as VP).

Take someone who has never gone thru this, and they would be far less likely to understand the degree to which the right wing noise machine will demonize them and twist everything they say. I do give Hillary points for the way she directly counterattacked the vast rightwing consiracy when they went after Bill.

[Clarkie1]

142. 08' will set record for # of senators running, I think.

Clinton
Biden
Kerry
Feingold
Edwards (ex-senator)
Lieberman will run again?

What makes senators such good candidates?

[rfkrfk]

148. IMO, senators make poor candidates

compare to a governor.

a gov. is head of his state's party.
he/she makes decisions, all the time, that go right to the bottom line.
a gov. knows how to run his staff, everything that can go wrong,
they have seen before.
etc, etc

compare to a senator
when he/she makes a mistake, who cares, just one out a hunderd
senator's staff, no executive experience
a senator gets help from the state party during the campaign.
all this applies double, for senators in 'safe' seats

are there any mayors worth discussing/

[Clarkie1]

152. That is an opinion I have heard expressed by many. n/t

[wisteria]

146. I would love to see him become President of the US. I have wished

he would run again since the last election.

[galatea]

149. it'll be the worse day in your life if he does run

McCain or Giuliani or Jeb will be in the White House for 8 years.

But your enthusiasm is making Karl Rove SMILE.

:toast:

[Vektor]

150. So my friend,

is yours.

And your searing case of Kerry penis envy is making this whole board laugh.

[Name removed]

151. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Geek_Girl]

153. I'd vote for him over Hillary

But he's not my first choice.