Ramblings of a Constipated Mind

I'm planning on going to vote early on Friday morning. I've known for a while that I'll be voting Obama for the presidency, but I don't know as much about the state and local candidates. In terms of the North Carolina race for the Senate, I interviewed the Libertarian candidate, Christopher Cole, a few weeks ago and he seemed like a cool guy. I don't agree with him on everything (particularly the Libertarian stance on the economy), but I think it would be refreshing to have another third-party member in a major office. The current two-party system we have now is pretty awful.

There has been a war of attack ads between Elizabeth Dole and Kay Hagen for a few months now. The sad thing is, a lot of the ads weren't actually run by their campaigns, just by other independent agencies who try to influence the election. Even so, it's been a very dirty race.

If I had to pick either of the two candidates, I would probably pick Hagan just because she's a Democrat and overall I tend to lean more Democrat than Republican. However, I don't know the details of either's position on the issues. At least I know where Cole stands.

Today, I saw something that settled it for me: I am definitely voting for Cole. Not because I agree with him on everything, but because the other two candidates are hateful, ignorant bigots. I was looking at CNN.com this morning and noticed a headline about a "godless" campaign ad. It turned out to be a story on the controversy caused by a new ad put out by the Elizabeth Dole campaign. And yes, the Dole campaign really did put this one out. The ad in particular deals with religion (or lack thereof), and left me in shock at how low it stoops. Here it is:



This is probably the single most offensive political ad I have ever seen. Here are my thoughts on the matter:

1) Kay Hagan is not an atheist. As far as I'm aware, she is an elder at her Presbyterian church and taught Sunday school.

2) The ad implies that taking "In God We Trust" off our money or "under God" out of the Pledge of Allegiance would be a bad thing. Honestly, I don't see how anyone who understands the history of this country (we are not and never have been a "Christian nation!") and of those phrases (they were only added during the Cold War to inspire anti-Communist sentiment!) could say that.

3) And this is the thing that annoys me the most: What if Kay Hagan was an atheist? So what? Just because someone isn't a Christian does not mean that they would not make a good leader. This kind of Christianization of politics infuriates me and offends me, and seems counter to the inclusive message of Jesus.

We like to think that anyone in this country can become president. That's just not true. I'm very happy to see that in all likelihood, our next president will be black. This is a huge step. However, there are still certain types of people out there that would never, ever be able to win a presidential election. Namely: homosexuals and anyone who was non-Christian.

This country is gradually becoming more tolerant of homosexuals. Regardless of whether or not we think homosexual behavior is moral, I think we can all agree that as Americans they deserve the same basic rights as heterosexuals (note: I don't consider "marriage" in the religious sense to be one of these rights, though civil unions would qualify). But even if gay marriage became legal on a national level, the odds of seeing a gay person in office are slim to none. Why? Because there is a huge number of people out there who automatically equate "homosexual" with "unfit to lead" for some obscure reason.

The same is even more true of non-Christians, and atheists in particular. There seems to be an unspoken rule of thumb if you want to run for president: You'd better be a Christian, or you can kiss your chances of winning goodbye. If you aren't, you'd better pretend to be. For every person out there who says they would never vote for a black man, there are probably fifty more who would say they'd never for a non-Christian. When did being a Christian (the more conservative the better) become a requirement to lead a country? When did it become an indicator of "better values" or "higher morals"? A look at history indicates that Christians are no more moral than anyone else. If anything, they're probably a bit worse!

As someone who has atheist friends and who co-hosts a regular podcast with an atheist, I can tell you that being an atheist does not mean anything when it comes to politics. Some atheists would be excellent politicians. Others would be awful. It's the same with religious people. Being a Christian does not somehow mean that you are endowed with magical powers of greatness that make you more qualified. Just look at George W. Bush. I mean, sheesh. You'd think the hard right would have learned by now.

This is similar to the whole controversy over Barack Obama and whether or not he's a Muslim. He isn't. But so what if he was? Would that somehow change the fact that his plan for the country is a good one and that he seems fit to lead? No. If anything, it would only make him a better president because it might make dealing with the Middle East a bit easier...

How is it that the most powerful country on Earth is also the most prejudiced? Race, gender, class, sexuality... you name it, if someone isn't part of the majority in any of those categories, we hate them. Religion especially. If you're not a God-fearin', Bible-readin', Jesus-believin' Christian, then you're pretty much viewed as an evil hell-bound hedonist trying to corrupt the country. This reminds me of the McCain rally a few weeks ago when that crazy woman said she wouldn't vote for Obama because she heard she was an Arab. McCain's response was [paraphrased], "No, that's not true, he's a good family man."

I applaud McCain for defending Obama, and I honestly don't think he meant any harm with his comment, but the very fact that most people didn't pick up on the implication and immediately take offense is telling of how ingrained this idea of "Middle Easterners are bad" has become in our minds. When did it become acceptable to infer that a person's race or nationality meant that they automatically weren't good family men?

And, more importantly, how we come to accept the twisted logic that

1) All Arabs are Muslim.
2) All Muslims are terrorists.
3) Therefore, all Arabs are terrorists?

Nowadays, people throw around the words "Arab" and "Muslim" interchangeably as if they're the same thing. They aren't. And the Bush administration's use of scare tactics and propaganda has been so effective that now we automatically view followers of Islam as fundamentalist suicide bombers.

How is this tolerated in a country that claims to be free and accepting of everyone?

If there's anything this election season has shown, it's that Muslims and atheists are the minorities in America that face the most discrimination and prejudice. And the sad fact of the matter is that the vast majority of the hate they receive is given on behalf of Christians. The same people who claim to follow the guy who said the second greatest commandment was to "Love your neighbor as yourself." How the mind boggles at the hypocrisy.

To sum up: being a Muslim or an atheist does not disqualify you for political office. However, ads like the one Dole put out should. Whatever respect I had for her or could have come to have for her in the future has just evaporated. As far as I'm concerned, there is no way she can make up for such a despicable move, and she should never be allowed to work in politics again. She could have the best plan for the country ever, and it wouldn't matter, because this ad reveals what a weak, pathetic, and hateful individual she truly is. That may sound harsh, but it's how I feel.

Stop the madness. Vote for Christopher Cole.

Cindy McCain Claims She's Just Like Any Other Female Human

Here's the video project I storyboarded and filmed for class. The sound still bothers me, but I can live with it. I'm not going to spend my weekend playing with dials and trying to fix every audio clip that caught a bit of background noise.



Now it's time to start prepping my final project. My storyboard presentation went well, except for one thing: the professor warned that some people might interpret it as misogynistic. This started a class debate on the presentation of gender roles and the nature of comedy. Some people thought it was fine how it was, others thought it needed some gender role reversals. Still others thought it was fine how it was but said a change would be funnier. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia got brought up as an example of comedy that challenges all expectations about every issue, which is good, since that's what partially inspired my idea. I think I'm going to switch the genders of two characters and see if I can run with it and make it even more outrageous/politically incorrect.

From last Thursday:



As usual, I think he's a bit close-minded when it comes to religion, but as far as political pundits go he's one of the better ones when it comes to cutting to the crux of issues. Stewart and Colbert, as good as they are, emphasize comedy over serious discussion, while Maher's show focuses more on serious discussion with jokes thrown in here and there. And even though his ultimate conclusion is wrong, I definitely think a lot of people would benefit from seeing his movie.

Church doesn't always bring good vibrations to Marky Mark.

It's interesting to find a celebrity who is a devout Roman Catholic.

It seems like all of my major projects are all occurring around the same time. Here's what I've got going on:

1) Still finishing up a short film for my video production class. We finally finished reshoots last night. Still have to finalize the edit.

2) Despite the fact that this project isn't finished and won't be due for another week, our teacher went ahead and told us to storyboard our final project. We are presenting them in class today. I just pulled an all-nighter (getting ready to catnap for around 1-2 hours) coming up with an idea, writing a script, and drawing it out. I tried all weekend to come up with something, but with everything going on the creative juices just weren't flowing. As it stands now... if the short I just storyboarded gets made, it's going to be a dark comedy in the vein of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. It will also require me to direct my first ever brief sex scene. Can you say awkward?

3) On Tuesday I have to submit a proposal to my Journalism professor for a final report project. I have absolutely no idea what I want to do for this. The only random idea popping around in the back of my head is that I could combine my interest in journalism with my interest in sociological gender issues and report on a strip club/escort service. Interview the girls about who's actually being exploited. Stuff like that. Other than that, I got nothin'. But I better come up with something so I can propose it and start working on it.

4) For this Journalism class, I also need to attend the fair this week or this weekend and find someone to interview. Oh joy.

5) For my course on Social Class I need to report on some sort of activist meeting or rally. Still need to find a good one so I can go ahead and contact people and set up an interview.

6) Still need to keep doing the readings and turning in the reflection papers each class period for this course as well.

7) I'm supposed to have another draft of No Room in Hell written within the next 2-3 weeks. I haven't worked on it much at all.

8) I'd still like to put together a DVD of The (Hide And) Seeker with the director's cut on it by the end of the semester. Speaking of which, the film was uploaded on YouTube and you can find it here.

9) Gotta remember to vote in a few weeks so I can do my part and get Obama elected.

10) I'm still writing for the newspaper and going to film screenings.

11) Still co-hosting multiple podcasts.

12) Recently interviewed about a two-and-a-half-semester-long job that I really hope I get. If I do, it shouldn't be too hard to make time for it, I just won't be getting much sleep (not that I am anyway). It'll come in handy next semester, though, when my load is hopefully a little lighter.

13) Still trying to work out the details of registering for classes. Looks like I'll be taking 21 hours for both of my last two semesters since I'm still not getting any credit for my study abroad courses.

Yeah. It's that time of the year...

Finally. The last one. I doubt anything major will happen, but we'll see. It's on domestic policy, so it's possible they'll go a little bit into new territory. As usual, here are my thoughts in process as I watch the debate...


The final debate - Part 1


The final debate - Part 2


The final debate - Part 3



WHY IS YOUR TAX PLAN BETTER THAN THE OTHER GUY'S?

McCain: You blink a lot. As in, it's distracting me. I'm too fascinated by how many times you're blinking to listen to what you're saying. It's hypnotizing. Er... you're not really answering the question...

Obama: You're looking sort of tired and worn down. Don't worry, just a few more weeks to go until you're President. I like how you're outlining your plan step-by-step... you and Biden are both good at making things clear and easy to understand. Hey look! You're answering the question! Good for you!

McCain: Whoever this Joe guy is, he's probably freaking out right now. You're looking right at the camera and talking to him.

Obama: Yes. I'm familiar with your tax plan, and it sounds awesome. At this point in the debate, I'm bored.

McCain: Um... why is spreading the wealth around a bad thing? FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, STOP SAYING OBAMA WILL RAISE TAXES. That's not what he wants to do, and you know that.

Obama: I like how you stay cool and collected. Your experience as a lawyer is showing.

McCain: Don't interrupt. When did taxes become a bad thing?

BOTH OF YOUR PROPOSALS WILL ADD TO THE DEFICIT - WHAT WILL YOU CUT?

Obama: We always get this question, and nobody wants to answer it. I like what you said, but you still didn't get very specific this time.

McCain: I like how Bob isn't let you avoid the question. You say you'll cut pork. Yeah right - your party thrives on it.

Obama: Good job quoting figures.

McCain: Whoa, nice line about you not being Bush. That's the kind of statement you should have been making every chance you got for the past few months. This is the best answer you've given so far.

Obama: Good job defending yourself - I love the Fox News reference. Good job laying our your position.

McCain: A decent defense.

ARE YOU WILLING TO SAY THE NASTY THINGS YOUR ADS HAVE SAID TO THE OTHER'S FACE?

McCain: Uh... so it's Obama's fault your campaign started making ludicrous accusations? Still, you're right, you did defend Obama a couple times.

Obama: I think you're exaggerating with the 100 percent figure... but you're right, there have been a lot. Good job pointing out how the McCain campaign admitted if they focused on the economy they would lose.

McCain: I like how you used a specific example of a negative ad.

Obama: Okay. Decent answer. But I'm getting bored.

McCain: Nobody is implying the people at your rallies are not great people. But that doesn't change the fact they can stay some stupid and ignorant things. Have you repudiated your running mate for the stuff she has said?

Obama: You're absolutely right. We need to debate issues, not character.

McCain: Oh, so now you're finally bringing up Ayers and ACORN.

Obama: Good job for setting things straight about Ayers. I think there are a lot of people out there that needed you to clear that up. Good job clearing up the ACORN stuff as well. I don't think "guilt by association" applies in this respect. You're right, the McCain campaign has been focusing on it way too much.

McCain: Is this true or not? Most of the "facts" you bring up in these debates aren't correct.

WHY WOULD THE USA BE BETTER IF YOUR RUNNING MATE WAS PRESIDENT OVER HIS?

Obama: This is a good profile of Biden. You're not really criticizing Palin, though. I know you want to play nice, and that's admirable, but come on, at least be honest and call a spade a spade.

McCain: A reformer? Um... no. Standing up to an incumbent is admirable, but it doesn't make you a reformer. I find it interesting you never directly stated you think she would make a good President.

Obama: No, that's not up to the American people, that's up to her and whether or not she's qualified. Come on. You're taking the safe route.

McCain: You're not afraid to criticize Biden. I wish Obama would do the same with Palin. Just once it would be nice for a big-name politician to laugh and be like, "Sarah Palin as President? Are you kidding me?"

GIVE US A SPECIFIC NUMBER OF HOW MUCH WE CAN REDUCE FOREIGN OIL IMPORTS IN 4 YEARS?

McCain: Wait, so what's your answer? Reduce all the oil except Canadian oil? In four years? Really? Oh, you said 7 or 8 years. I guess that's a bit more realistic, but you still didn't answer the question.

Obama: You didn't really answer the question either. Blegh.

McCain: Off-shore drilling will not stop the problem. Don't drill, baby, don't drill!

Obama: Sounds good to me. Yawn.

McCain: Obama. Does. Not. Want. To. Raise. Taxes.

HEALTH CARE?

Obama: You're re-stating what you've said many times before. I still like it.

McCain: So, basically, you want health care to serve individuals. You want it to serve businesses.

Obama: Wow. McCain looks genuinely stunned. I think he's a bit slow.

McCain: Now you're just plain ignoring what Obama said. Wow. You are clueless.

Obama: You're coasting now.

COULD YOU NOMINATE SOMEONE TO THE SUPREME COURT WHO DISAGREES WITH YOU ON ROE V WADE?

McCain: This was a fairly good answer... at least until you went back into attacking Obama. And until you acknowledged that people who disagreed with you on Roe v Wade were not qualified. You never cease to amaze me.

Obama: You're right, abortion is a difficult moral issue.

McCain: Again, you spend more time criticizing Obama than detailing your actual position.

Obama: This was a great answer. I like how you try to find common ground in bringing up the need for good sex education and said nobody is pro-abortion.

McCain: As usual... as soon as Obama says nobody is "pro-abortion", you immediately imply that he is. You're right that we need to do more to support adoption, but would you really say that there are no exceptions?

EDUCATION:

Obama: I like how you're focused on reducing the "achievement gap." I really love your idea of a tuition credit in exchange for community service, but to be honest $4000 isn't really enough.

McCain: You say we need to reward good teachers. But how would you define a "good teacher"? I'm not a fan of your loan-focused solution. I don't like loans.

SHOULD MORE FEDERAL MONEY BE GIVEN TO SCHOOLS?

Obama: This was a decent answer, though I'm not fan of sneaking in that McCain jab. Great line about America's youth not being an interest group, though.

McCain: I don't know enough about the voucher situation to have an opinion.

Obama: Okay.

CLOSING STATEMENTS?

McCain: Meh. An okay statement.

Obama: A slightly better, more inspiring answer.

OVERALL:

Obama won, as usual. McCain is just hanging on for dear life. Not only is Obama more correct when it comes to the issues, he's also a better debater and campaigner. The McCain campaign has tried and failed to copy Obama's "change" rhetoric, and now that it hasn't worked, he's trying to attack Obama's character. He ignores the facts. It's actually rather humorous how he immediately resorts back into the same mud-slinging right after he's been directly told that he is mistaken.

Obama is one cool cat. Every time McCain criticized him, he had this big smile on his face, like it's no big deal. He knows how to stay level-headed, and I think despite the tremendous challenges facing the country he's going to make a great President.

I'm starting to get the feeling McCain doesn't really know what he's doing anymore. I would be surprised if he spends most of his time wishing he had gotten the nomination in 2000, when he might have actually had a chance...

Here we go again! Below is a video of the second presidential debate, followed by a transcript of my thoughts, in order by issue and candidate speaking.


Part 1 of the debate.


Part 2 of the debate.

What's the fastest solution to bail out retirees and senior citizens losing their money?

Obama: I like how you're going step-by-step... it looks like you learned from Biden. Your plan for the middle class sounds good, though part of me still wonders why if we're in an economic depression and a war we're not raising taxes.

McCain: Not raise taxes on anybody? You're dreaming if you think that will help. At least tax the rich more. That's a nice technique, walking very close to the guy who asked the question.

Appointing Secretary to the Treasury:

McCain: Nice joke about Brokaw. Is Meg Whitman the person who invented ebay? Um... okay... I guess...

Obama: I agree with your economic policy, but you didn't really focus on the question.

How, amidst the bailout, will you help people economically?

McCain: Good attack on Obama's link to Fannie and Freddie.

Obama: Good job defending yourself. I like how you stayed focused on the question.

Is the economy going to get much worse?

Obama: An okay answer.

McCain: You started out good, but you lost me when went into your "American workers are the best" rhetoric that you and Palin keep throwing out. I'm not a fan of blind nationalism and a superiority complex.

How can we trust either of you with our money when both parties are to blame?

Obama: Good job linking McCain to Bush. I like how you talk about your plans for health care and energy, and say that amidst it all you're going to cut more than you spend.

McCain: Oh, come on, you're not a reformer, at least not as much as Obama. If the situation cries out for bi-partisanship, why are you only dealing with people and talking policies that mainly appeal to one party? Maybe if you hadn't picked Ms. Conservative as your VP, I could believe you. You're right, we do have to look at your records and your plans for the economy. Unfortunately for you, Obama's is better.

What will be your priorities your first year in office?

McCain: There you go playing politics again - "We can work on all three at once." Of course we need "all of the above", but answer the question. What is the most important to you? How can we do all of them at once when we're in the middle of a huge economic crisis?

Obama: Good analogy to the family. I like how energy independence is a top priority of yours, followed by health care and education. I like how you say you'll go "line by line" through the budget to eliminate unnecessary spending.

What sacrifices will you ask every American to make to help the economic crisis?

McCain: I like how you want to cut defense spending and earmarks. More appeal to Americanism and "we can do everything" (we can't), though.

Obama: Good energy plan.

How will we break the habit of too much credit and debt?

Obama: I wasn't a big fan of this answer, but you picked up near the end.

McCain: Good Jello joke. But when did Obama say anything about increasing taxes? It wouldn't surprise me if he did that (and I'm not sure it would be a bad thing), but don't put words in his mouth.

Would you give Congress a date to reform social security within 2 years?

Obama: I like how you're honest that it might take four years instead of two. Good job transitioning into tax policy and clarifying McCain's mistake. You're right, the current tax policy, and the one McCain wants to continue, simply is not fair.

McCain: If fixing social security isn't hard, why haven't you done it? Obama's record with taxes may not be great, but at least he knows when to change ideas, which is more than I can say for you.

What would you do to make sure Congress moves fast to fix the environmental crisis within the next 2 years?

McCain: Nuclear power could help. But what else? Ugh, more "Americans are the best" rhetoric. Stop trying to butter me up.

Obama: Good answer, you specifically mentioned what you would invest in. Good point about how we can't drill our way out of the problem.

Should we fund a single Manhattan-like project or a bunch of garages to deal with energy?

McCain: I like how you're so against earmarks, but you didn't really focus on the question. And no, offshore drilling will not solve the problem.

Er... why didn't Obama get to answer this question?

Do you believe health care should be treated as a commodity?

Obama: I like your health care plan.

McCain: In this case, I think government regulation is necessary. Access to health care is a basic resource that everyone should be able to have.

Is health care a privilege, a right or a responsibility?

McCain: It's not a responsibility, it's a right.

Obama: You are correct, sir. It's a right. You're right, government does need to intervene in situations when corporations can screw people over.

How will all the recent economic stress affect our ability to act as a peacemaker in the world?

McCain: "America is the greatest force for good in the history of the world." STOP. PLAYING. THE. NATIONALISM. AND. PATRIOTISM. CARD.

Obama: You're right, you may not have McCain's experience, but he has been misguided about the war in Iraq, so maybe that's a good thing. Good point about all the money spent on the war. This is a huge contributing factor to our current economic situation. Ugh, why did you have to jump on the "greatest nation" train?

What about situations where military action would be for humanitarian reasons rather than national security?

Obama: You're right, we do have a moral responsibility to intervene in some situations. Working with allies is important. Good example with Darfur.

McCain: Obama didn't want to set a date (he wants to do that now, though), he didn't want to go into Iraq to begin with. The situation is such that we can't bring our troops home with "victory and honor"! We can't win a war on a noun, especially when we are an occupying force! Evidently the security of Americans isn't your top priority, victory is.

Should we respect Pakistan's sovereignty or ignore it to pursue al-Quaeda?

Obama: Good answer, though I'm not a fan of your determination to kill bin Laden no matter what.

McCain: I think your spinning Obama's words again. Last time I checked, you were the warmonger, not him. Stop acting like the strategy in Iraq has worked. It hasn't. I like how you say we're not going to force Pakistan to do anything, though.

Obama: Good job calling out McCain on his support of extreme force in many countries.

McCain: You supported what you thought was right and opposed what you didn't? Really? That's your answer? That's just stating the obvious. The question is whether or not what you thought was the right course of action was in fact the right course of action.

How do you reorganize the strategy in Afghanistan?

Obama: Good answer about not wanting a dictator but the need for a response by the Afghan people.

McCain: No, you're the one that won't admit you're wrong about Iraq. Every time you bring up the I-word you are hurting yourself.

How can we apply pressure on Russia for humanitarian issues without starting another Cold War?

McCain: This was a pretty good answer.

Obama: We need to fix our economic problems before we fix Georgia's. Good point about strategy, though, and the need for energy reform.

Is Russia an evil empire?

Obama: Good middle-of-the-road answer. I'm glad you're not looking at it in black-and-white.

McCain: I'm glad you agree with Obama.

Would you be willing to commit troops to defend Israel if they were attacked by Iran, or would you wait for the UN Security Council?

McCain: Good point about the danger of Iran and nukes. However, what's the big deal about negotiating without pre-conditions? Isn't the bottom line just that we need to negotiate, period? We need to work out these problems as soon as possible, before they get worse.

Obama: I like how you're leaving military action on the table but not completely supporting it. You're right, preventative measures are key, and we need to talk to our enemies.

What don't you know and how will you learn it?

Obama: You completely ignored the question in favor of an inspirational closing statement. I wish you had answered it.

McCain: You didn't really answer the question either. Blegh. Shame on both of you.

Overall, this was an okay debate. I think it was overall a tie, but because I agree much more with Obama, obviously I think he came out the stronger candidate. This debate went better than their first one in the sense that they didn't seem to skirt around the questions and the issues as much (though they still did that a little). McCain's appeal to nationalism still irritates me to no end, though. Would it be too much to ask for a candidate that rather than saying America is the best said that America is only one of many great nations? We're not perfect. There are plenty of other countries that are better than us in certain ways. An attitude of humility would go a long way to improving our nation.

The Palin line on marriage is priceless.

Kyle and I are going to be recording a special episode of Good God/No God all about Bill Maher's new film, Religulous. I attempted to gather a group of theists and atheists together to go see it tonight, but unfortunately the Homecoming parade was tonight and everyone was busy, so I ended up going by myself. All I will say about it is this: if you like to laugh and you don't mind faith-related questions, you'll probably enjoy this movie.

I don't agree with Maher on everything, and think he can come across a bit arrogant at times, but he does have a lot of good and justifiable opinions and he can usually get a great discussion out of the panel on his show Real Time (which is available in podcast form, by the way). Here's a clip from an episode in which religion was brought up (originally discussing the film Jesus Camp), as well as an interview he did with Larry King back in August.


I like what Reza Aslan has to say. Makes me want to read his book.


Maher talks politics, Rick Warren and Religulous.

The second part of the interview on politics and religion.

As I did during the first presidential debate, I'm going to blog my thoughts to what each candidate says as I watch it. Hopefully they won't interrupt each other too much and this will be fairly easy to do...

THE BAILOUT BILL:

Biden: Way to be political and not answer the question. Good job keeping the focus on Obama, though, and backing him up. You say you're going to focus on the middle-class. What do you mean by that? What about the working class?

Palin: Good job appealing to families and giving it a personal touch by starting with the soccer game story. Wait, so you think there needs to be reform? You say John McCain wants reform? Uh... no. Also, you look like you're reading something word-for-word that you memorized.

Biden: Yes! Call out McCain and his flip-flopping on the economy!

Palin: You're repeating the same thing McCain said about the American workers being the best. Way to appeal to the ultra-patriotic right. I like how you brought up the fact that you're young and fresh, that's a smart move, but too bad, Obama already did that first.

WHO'S TO BLAME:

Palin: Yes, it was Wall Street. But what about Washington? What about average Americans who live beyond their means? You're so idealistic! The American people are partially to blame!

Biden: Yes. McCain called for de-regulation. Good answer.

Palin: Uh-oh... calling out Obama with taxes... I'm still waiting for someone to explain to me why tax cuts always seem to be necessary, though. Every candidate promises them, every single election.

Biden: Good job pointing out that McCain voted for the same thing. Yes, call her out on not addressing the de-regulation issue.

Palin: I don't care about what you did as mayor and governor.

TAX CUTS FOR THE RICH:

Biden: You're right. It is fair. We need to lessen the class divide.

Palin: Interesting point about small businesses. STOP THROWING THE WORD "PATRIOTIC" AROUND LIKE THE GOP IS THE ONLY PARTY THAT QUALIFIES. That was a great line about universal health care not working since the government currently isn't working, even though I disagree.

Biden: Wow, you're really getting into it. I like it. Good job throwing out numbers. Awesome "bridge to nowhere" comment - oh snap!

PROMISES YOU CAN'T KEEP:

Biden: I like how you're being honest and actually (somewhat) answering the question. That's more than McCain and Obama did with the same question. Good job throwing the "patriotic" line back in Palin's face.

Palin: You're not answering the question, but at least you're saying some okay things about energy, I guess. However, stop trying to frame it like the whole energy debacle was you-versus-the-giant-oil-machine.

Biden: I like how you're being blunt about McCain and Exxon.

MORTGAGE AND DEBT:

Palin: Stop! It's not just Wall Street! It's a bigger problem!

Biden: I like how you admit the things that you disagreed with Obama on. We need more honesty like that. Unfortunately, I don't know enough about mortgages and the economy to really understand what you're saying. However, according to the monitor, women really like you. I guess all this economy-talk turns them on.

Palin: I'm glad you're pro-energy independence.

ENERGY:

Palin: You're walking the line between the majority that acknowledge the human cause of global warming and the minority that denies it. It's a nice move, though I wish you would pick a side. Other than that, though, I don't have any major issue with what you're saying.

Biden: Good job coming straight out and saying what you think. Pointing out McCain's voting record in regards to promoting alternative fuels is good.

Palin: "Drill baby drill"? Wow. Way to avoid his point. Maybe the reason Obama and Biden are against domestic drilling is because they know it won't solve the big picture...

Biden: Good job calling out McCain's voting record again.

SAME-SEX BENEFITS:

Biden: I like how you're extremely up front about everything. You're right - under the Constitution, these benefits are guaranteed. We're not talking about marriage in a religious sense, we're talking about couple benefits.

Palin: No, this isn't really re-defining the definition of marriage (and it's not like there really is a definition anyway). But I'm glad you think there shouldn't be a civil rights issue.

Biden: I like that you're blunt, again.

Palin: Okay, straight-forward. Same as Biden. Good.

IRAQ:

Palin: You're spouting the same nonsense as McCain. Once again you're appealing to fear and this whole "we can't lose" mentality. Blegh.

Biden: Good job laying out Obama's specific timetable. You're really good at pointing out how McCain often voted the same way as Obama on these issues they're criticizing him for. Awesome job at the end, "We will end this war."

Palin: Stop hiding behind this whole "victory" and "surrender" excuse! It's not always bad to remove military forces! America is not perfect! We can lose! Good job pointing out how Biden said Obama isn't ready, though.

Biden: You're so much better at this than Obama. Saying it like it is. I like you.

NUCLEAR WEAPONS:

Biden: I haven't heard about Pakistan already having nukes... if you're right, it's disconcerting. Still, good job keeping the focus on al-Qaeda, though I'm still hesitant to fully support much more military action. Good point about building schools and infrastructure.

Palin: Here we go... more pro-Israel rhetoric. As usual, you're wrong when it comes to diplomacy and unconditional meetings with foreign leaders.

DIPLOMACY:

Palin: Oh God, it's Bush all over again. The dictators hate our freedom and our ideals! Oh no! We can't be diplomatic with them! They're evil and sitting down with them would be like compromise! Give me a break.

Biden: Yes! You're right! We need to be willing to sit down! Ooooohhh, nice jab at McCain about Spain. You rule.

ISRAEL-PALESTINE CONFLICT:

Palin: Okay, you want a two-state solution, but you're still spouting extremely pro-Israel rhetoric. What about Palestine?

Biden: You're right, the administration has failed, but what are you going to do? We get it, you'll change the policy. But what's your specific stance? Oh, you're definitively backing Israel. I'm not really sure how I feel about that...

Palin: Yawn. Right now you're just coming off as a pretty face. You're not coming across as very specific and tough.

Biden: You are awesome at debating. Great job pointing out how McCain is so similar to Bush.

NUCLEAR WEAPONS AND INTERVENTION:

Palin: No, we don't need to implement the surge principles! How is the fact that we're killing civilians "untrue"? Wow, you're just letting the country watch as you spin things.

Biden: You could do this in your sleep, couldn't you?

Palin: He has you on the defensive. It sounds like you're desperately reaching for an answer and trying to remember your talking points.

Biden: Repeating yourself, but it's all good.

BOSNIA/DARFUR:

Biden: You're clearly the stronger VP candidate when it comes to foreign affairs. "I don't have the stomach for genocide" - neither do I. Nice rallying call. Woohoo!

Palin: You're right, you are an outsider. But in this case, that's not a good thing. Biden is being straight about why he voted for the war. Are you not listening? I'm glad you support Darfur. But still, you're losing, and I think you know it.

Biden: I love how you lay things out in a point-by-point form. Still, we get it, John McCain was wrong about the war. I think you're harping on that a bit too much.

Palin: You're digging yourself a bigger hole by going back to the whole "John McCain is a veteran" line.

WHAT IF THEY HAD TO BE PRESIDENT:

Biden: Good job saying you're behind Obama. This is a perfect opportunity for you to attack Palin, but I understand you might not take it because you don't want to come across as too forceful or mean.

Palin: Did you just wink at the camera? You're not addressing your inexperience. Still, this was an okay answer.

Biden: You're right, but again, I think you might have worn out the "McCain is just like Bush" approach...

Palin: Aw, you're so folksy. You comment about heaven is going to bring in the religious right but might divide people. You're doing a good job at coming across as a normal American, and that was kinda cool how you mentioned the third grade class, but is it possible you're coming across as too normal? Too small-town and inexperienced?

THE VICE PRESIDENCY:

Palin: Nice job declaring your comment was a joke. Maybe it was. You seem to be gaining confidence now we're out of the foreign affairs segment...

Biden: Good job pointing out your strengths and how you'll be good at giving advice to Obama.

Palin: Awful answer about executive power. No, the founding fathers were not flexible about it. The executive branch cannot take legislative power. Not good. THIS ANSWER SHOULD AUTOMATICALLY DISQUALIFY YOU FROM THE RACE.

Biden: Good job calling out Cheney and pointing out Article 1 of the Constitution. Yes! You know your civics, sir. Well done.

BIGGEST WEAKNESS (EXPERIENCE AND LACK OF DISCIPLINE):

Palin: Here we go, pulling the whole "I'm a mom and that gives me experience" routine. I love my mom, but she wouldn't be a good President. And now, what's this, more pro-America propaganda. You seem like a nice woman, but I really don't like you when it comes to politics.

Biden: Good job bringing in your personal history without it sounding cheesy.

Palin: Blegh. More "McCain is a maverick" BS. Maybe he used to be, but he isn't now. From the monitor it looks like people aren't responding. Good.

Biden: Good job calling out McCain again and how he isn't a maverick.

POLICY YOU WERE FORCED TO CHANGE:

Biden: Not a particularly big issue, I guess, but I'm glad you're honest.

Palin: Bad answer. It makes you seem arrogant and like you think you're perfect.

BI-PARTISANSHIP:

Biden: Interesting answer. Maybe we do need to question motive at times, though.

Palin: Good answer about appointing people of different views and parties, though I doubt you'll actually do it.

CLOSING STATEMENT:

Palin: Meh. Even without the filter of the media, you don't come of good. It seems like they've done a pretty good job of sizing you up. Ugh... more "proud to be an American" and throwing out the word "freedom"...

Biden: Not great, but overall a decent summary. I'm glad you admitted asking God to bless our troops was "selfish." I don't think we should be saying "God bless us" at all, but at least that's better than how the Republicans usually put it.

OVERALL:

Biden clearly won. I wish he had gone after Palin more, but overall I guess he didn't really need to. He was much better at pointing out Obama's strengths and McCain's weaknesses. Most of the stuff Palin criticized Obama for was stuff that McCain voted for, too! I love Biden. He was blunt, straightforward, and didn't beat around the bush. Honestly, I liked his performance better than Obama, who during his debate seemed at times like he was trying to skirt the issue and play the political game of not saying anything too definitive. We didn't get any of that with Biden. He wasn't afraid to say what he thought about an issue and what he and Obama were going to do about it.

Part of me actually wishes he was running as president now and Obama was his VP. He could have been less restrained and really gone for the juggular, but he didn't (which is probably the only thing I'm disappointed with). He let Palin dig her own hole and reveal how little she knows about national politics, especially in regards to foreign affairs. Hopefully the rest of the country will now realize how empty the McCain campaign's promise of "change" (a slogan which they stole from Obama, like they've stolen a lot of his other opinions) really is. Obama/Biden all the way!

It runs a bit long, but it's one of the better ads out there. I guess this counts as my five people.



WARNING: mild language.