Okay, props to Mitt Romney for allowing President Obama a second term!!! I, like many others within my field of work, was somewhat surprised at his choice of Paul Ryan as his running mate. I think in the end it will hurt Romney, not just because Ryan is such a risky candidate; but, mainly because he undermines (and arguably turned his back on) the south.
Let's start at the beginning - a very good place to start (and points to those who get the reference) - Paul Davis Ryan was born on January 27, 1970. He is a member of "Generation X" which I find personally fascinating, yet a little creepy - for the record, he is eight days older than my father. He graduated from Miami University in Ohio. He was in multiple clubs and organization both in high school and college. A funny piece of information is the fact that we was a "frat boy" - being a member of Delta Tau Delta.
After college, he went to work with various politicos in Washington, D.C. Some of them included Sam Brownback (former senator and current Governor of Kansas), Bob Kasten (former Senator of Wisconsin), and Empower America (a conservative think-tank in DC). When he finally did get elected to Congress by the constituents of Wisconsin's First Congressional District, he was twenty-eight years old. After getting elected by only fifty-four percent of the votes cast, Paul Ryan was assigned to the following committees: House Budget Committee (where he would eventually become Chairman of the Committee); the Committee of Ways & Means; and, the subcommittee on Health. Furthermore, he was a part of a number of caucuses in the House of Representatives including the Congressional Middle East Economic Parliament; the International Conservative Caucus; the Representative Stud Committee; and, the Sportsman Committee (where he would become the co-chair).
It seems odd that Mitt Romney would chose a rogue from the Midwest. There is little chance that Romney will even win one - if any - of the Midwest states. He really needs to focus on the south.
Alabama, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Tennessee....what do all of these states have in common? These are the states Mitt Romney failed to win the GOP Primary in both the 2008 & the 2012 election cycles. From 2008 to the present, Mitt Romney did not even win in the states he won in 2008 - like Minnesota, North Dakota, Maine and Colorado. If Mitt Romney wants to have a fighting chance at being President, he should have chosen a running mate though could deliver the South. Now this is not to say that "The South will Rise again" rhetoric is accurate, but i really believe that by adding Paul Ryan to the ticket does nothing for those that cast their support behind John McCain or Mike Huckabee [back in 2008], and Newt Gingrich or Rick Santorum [this election cycle].
In all honestly, Paul Ryan would be the better candidate for President because he relates more to the average American. However, the fact that he is backed by a majority of Tea Party supporters, has no idea how to appeal to female voters and wants to cut funding to everything under the sun, except to the military [and wants government out of the people's lives unless it involves telling a woman what they can and can't do with their body, telling people who they can and can't marry, and telling students to fend for themselves when it comes to their education] makes him the most divisive running mate in the history of the country. To put it another way, Paul Ryan is Palin 2.0 (and yes, this is Romney's GameChanger).
Showing posts with label Santorum. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Santorum. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Saturday, March 31, 2012
A Blue Dot Traveling to Red Country
In less than two weeks, I will be
driving across the country to the state of Arizona Grand Canyon . In addition, I want to be in Yuma Oklahoma & Texas New Mexico and
take a picture of a cactus in its nature surrounding (and see Roswell U.S.A.
Now, the nervous issues regarding
my journey are less than the joyful ones; yet, they are still relevant. This
will be the first time I’ve driven across the country – well, close enough
anyway. I did a sporadic road trip to
Texas last year in March (and that was
an experience to say the least) and it enlightened me A LOT regarding their
views on politics and how the government should work without knowing about how
it actually works. Anyway, I
digress. In addition to the length of
time I’ll be driving, alone I might add, my destination is the state of Arizona
I thought about not
spending any money while in the state, but I realized I would need gas for my
car – even though I can apparently run since we all do this, at least,
according to some of the Arizona
One more thing, I have two bumper
stickers on my car: an Obama 2012 one and a Human Rights Campaign one. I guess
the irony is that they are on my car which
just happens to be…BLUE! Let’s not forget I am driving a foreign-made car.
Who would have thought I was so political – and a democrat at that?! Anyway, I
will make the best of it and be a nice person and smile. You know, play “Mr.
Politician”, I might even volunteer for a candidate out there. I’ll be in Arizona Arizona
has to offer such as the landscape, the history, the big open sky at night, and
the Grand Canyon .
Earlier I mentioned that I’ll be
driving through Oklahoma and Texas Tulsa
or Amarillo Little Rock Arizona Hope , Arkansas New Mexico
Another fact, it is going to be
REALLY hot out there in the southwest portion of the United States McDowell County ,
North Carolina
***
Switching topics now; this upcoming
Tuesday will be primary day for two states and the District of Columbia Wisconsin and Maryland Wisconsin Wisconsin Wisconsin residents (I’m certain it’s in the ballpark of
64% give-or-take three percentage points) are opposed to Governor Walker and
are currently trying to recall him from office. I actually have many friends
that put their lives on hold and went to Wisconsin Maryland Maryland in the
general election by at least 73% and Maryland
My prediction for Tuesday’s
primaries are as followed:
Hopefully, Newt Gingrich will finally drop out of the race; however,
the thought in the back of my mind is that he won’t because he’s a stubborn,
old, and arrogant person. Ron Paul will
not be dropping out of the race.
As for the current moment, I will
stop this conversation and figure out the best way to discuss the Healthcare
care currently being discussed in the United States Supreme Court. Expect a wonderful
post in the near future. Until then, I’m going to have some tea made from
various tree barks and a hint of something citrus-y. I will also work on my
music to compile for the long drive (the list is title “Car Jams).
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
A Potential Moment of Truth for the Politically Weak & Athletically Fit
Well, we have finally come around to another primary day! This time, it is down south and it involves two states: Alabama and Mississippi. It will be an interesting outcome indeed; however, I would like to briefly discuss the past weekend that endured within the GOP primary race.
The past weekend involved four different caucuses with three of them having nine delegates awarded to the winner (the forth had 40 delegates). Those four caucuses were: Guam, Kansas, Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands - guess which one has 40 delegates [it is Kansas]. Rick Santorum won the Kansas caucus with over 50%, whereas Mitt Romney won the other three caucuses. It should be noted that Ron Paul won the popular vote in the U.S. Virgin Islands, but because it is a...unique system it had Mitt Romney win the actual caucus. Personally, it doesn't really matter because, like Puerto Rico, residents of the U.S. Virgin Islands are not able to vote in the general election...just the primaries and caucus (and yes, this makes no sense what-so-ever). Speaking as someone who actually knows people in Puerto Rico - hahaha - they have more important things to consider like statehood, independence, hurricanes, being home to the only rain forest in the United States (take that Hawaii!), and promoting tourism to help the economy of the country that they can't elect a leader to govern over them. Anyway, I digress...
Okay, let's fast forward to today. It is primary day in the deep south! I actually think Hawaii and the American Samoa hold caucuses today as well. I guess we've had enough of caucus talk for the moment so we are only looking at primaries (Ron Paul would not be happy as his outlook is the exact opposite). I always enjoy watching politics in the southern states...even though I never took Southern Politics in undergrad. Anyway, here are my predictions:
2012 Primary (and Caucus) Predictions for the States of Alabama & Mississippi, Hawaii, and the United States Territory of the American Samoa:
Primaries ~
Alabama - 50 Delegates - Mitt Romney
Mississippi - 40 Delegates - Rick Santorum
Caucuses ~
Hawaii - 20 Delegates - Mitt Romney
American Samoa - 9 Delegates - Mitt Romney
***I know Gingrich has stated that he vows to stay in the race, but at some point he has to drop out because he can't win with two states. If he doesn't drop out, then maybe Ron Paul will (I'm sorry Ron Paul supporters, but seriously....I'm not sold on him yet).
Now before I get glares by the Ron Paul supporters, I am not saying he is a bad candidate or that he can't get elected....ok, I will say that much but I can defend that statement (at a later date). I am simply saying that he is true to his beliefs and he is very consistent when it comes to his voting records and positions. Personally, I wish more people would read the Constitution. Also, as a side note, he is a Duke graduate so that is always a plus - and now I'll be getting the glares from all my UNC friends, ha-ha! I think he would make a more dramatic impact on policies, etc if he just stayed in Congress. I will continue to read up on his efforts and maybe, just maybe, I would consider voting for him.....but at the current time I am endorsing President Barack Obama for re-election.
On a positive note, MARCH MADNESS is here!! All I'm going to say, at this point, is I hope Western Kentucky wins tonight's game! I still have to print, and fill out, my brackets! I want Syracuse to win (go figure and surprise, surprise.....give me a break I was BORN THERE!!!), but they have to face the University of North Carolina at Asheville. I have vowed to my UNC-A friends that I will remain neutral during their match-up on Friday afternoon. I do feel obligated to cheer for a North Carolina Public institution of higher education (and also was my back-up school if I didn't get into Western Carolina University). So for now.... GO SYRACUSE ORANGE[MEN] & GOOO UNCA BULLDOGS!!!!! The battle of the Bigs: Big East Vs. Big South!
Oh,by the way, did anyone else see MY ALMA MATER on ESPN2 as they fought hard against Davidson on Monday night in the Southern Conference Championship game??? Two words - Double Overtime (and yes, I was on TV at least twice)!!! I am so proud to be a Western Carolina University Catamount Alumnus! In fact, I've decided to forgo some of my other choices for graduate school and return to Western for my master's degree in.....Public Administration (not teaching as I once thought I was going to do; I'm too political).
If you want to contact me and discuss any political issues - or thoughts - then feel free:
E-mail: timoteohines@gmail.com
Facebook: Tim Hines
Twitter: @timoteohines
The past weekend involved four different caucuses with three of them having nine delegates awarded to the winner (the forth had 40 delegates). Those four caucuses were: Guam, Kansas, Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands - guess which one has 40 delegates [it is Kansas]. Rick Santorum won the Kansas caucus with over 50%, whereas Mitt Romney won the other three caucuses. It should be noted that Ron Paul won the popular vote in the U.S. Virgin Islands, but because it is a...unique system it had Mitt Romney win the actual caucus. Personally, it doesn't really matter because, like Puerto Rico, residents of the U.S. Virgin Islands are not able to vote in the general election...just the primaries and caucus (and yes, this makes no sense what-so-ever). Speaking as someone who actually knows people in Puerto Rico - hahaha - they have more important things to consider like statehood, independence, hurricanes, being home to the only rain forest in the United States (take that Hawaii!), and promoting tourism to help the economy of the country that they can't elect a leader to govern over them. Anyway, I digress...
Okay, let's fast forward to today. It is primary day in the deep south! I actually think Hawaii and the American Samoa hold caucuses today as well. I guess we've had enough of caucus talk for the moment so we are only looking at primaries (Ron Paul would not be happy as his outlook is the exact opposite). I always enjoy watching politics in the southern states...even though I never took Southern Politics in undergrad. Anyway, here are my predictions:
2012 Primary (and Caucus) Predictions for the States of Alabama & Mississippi, Hawaii, and the United States Territory of the American Samoa:
Primaries ~
Alabama - 50 Delegates - Mitt Romney
Mississippi - 40 Delegates - Rick Santorum
Caucuses ~
Hawaii - 20 Delegates - Mitt Romney
American Samoa - 9 Delegates - Mitt Romney
***I know Gingrich has stated that he vows to stay in the race, but at some point he has to drop out because he can't win with two states. If he doesn't drop out, then maybe Ron Paul will (I'm sorry Ron Paul supporters, but seriously....I'm not sold on him yet).
Now before I get glares by the Ron Paul supporters, I am not saying he is a bad candidate or that he can't get elected....ok, I will say that much but I can defend that statement (at a later date). I am simply saying that he is true to his beliefs and he is very consistent when it comes to his voting records and positions. Personally, I wish more people would read the Constitution. Also, as a side note, he is a Duke graduate so that is always a plus - and now I'll be getting the glares from all my UNC friends, ha-ha! I think he would make a more dramatic impact on policies, etc if he just stayed in Congress. I will continue to read up on his efforts and maybe, just maybe, I would consider voting for him.....but at the current time I am endorsing President Barack Obama for re-election.
On a positive note, MARCH MADNESS is here!! All I'm going to say, at this point, is I hope Western Kentucky wins tonight's game! I still have to print, and fill out, my brackets! I want Syracuse to win (go figure and surprise, surprise.....give me a break I was BORN THERE!!!), but they have to face the University of North Carolina at Asheville. I have vowed to my UNC-A friends that I will remain neutral during their match-up on Friday afternoon. I do feel obligated to cheer for a North Carolina Public institution of higher education (and also was my back-up school if I didn't get into Western Carolina University). So for now.... GO SYRACUSE ORANGE[MEN] & GOOO UNCA BULLDOGS!!!!! The battle of the Bigs: Big East Vs. Big South!
Oh,by the way, did anyone else see MY ALMA MATER on ESPN2 as they fought hard against Davidson on Monday night in the Southern Conference Championship game??? Two words - Double Overtime (and yes, I was on TV at least twice)!!! I am so proud to be a Western Carolina University Catamount Alumnus! In fact, I've decided to forgo some of my other choices for graduate school and return to Western for my master's degree in.....Public Administration (not teaching as I once thought I was going to do; I'm too political).
If you want to contact me and discuss any political issues - or thoughts - then feel free:
E-mail: timoteohines@gmail.com
Facebook: Tim Hines
Twitter: @timoteohines
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Super Tuesday....Indeed, Indeed!
Well, it is finally here! No, not March Madness...although that is here as well. I'm talking about Super Tuesday. The day where anyone with some political knowledge will follow the results of the day's final outcomes. It is days like this that I will be sitting in front of the television and when there is a commercial break, I'll be: checking my phone; checking twitter; texting my political friends across the country; play different scenarios in my head if a candidate wins; argue with the political commentators; etc. This is what I live for everyday. Politics is indeed my life. Super Tuesday, the State of the Union, Inauguration Day, Election Day, and GOTV/GOTPV (Get Out The Vote/Get Out The Primary Vote) Day are my holidays.
Since Super Tuesday is here, it is important to know which states are voting today. It is a list of only ten states. Those states are:
1) Alaska - 27 Delegates
2) Georgia - 76 Delegates
3) Idaho - 32 Delegates
4) Massachusetts - 41 Delegates
5) North Dakota - 28 Delegates
6) Ohio - 66 Delegates
7) Oklahoma - 43 Delegates
8) Tennessee - 58 Delegates
9) Vermont - 17 Delegates
10) Virginia - 49 Delegates
Bear in mind that 419 delegates are up to be claimed by and of the four candidates: Romney, Santorum, Paul, and Gingrich. Now, here are my predictions before the polls start to close in less than an hour.
My Predictions for the 2012 Super Tuesday Primaries & Caucuses:
(*** = I made a correct prediction)
1) Alaska - Ron Paul
2) Idaho - Mitt Romney
3) Georgia - Newt Gingrich
4) Massachusetts - Mitt Romney
5) North Dakota - Ron Paul
6) Ohio - Rick Santorum
7) Oklahoma - Rick Santorum
8) Tennessee - Rick Santorum
9) Vermont - Mitt Romney
10) Virginia - Mitt Romney (but it will be a long count to ensure this win)
I do think Newt Gingrich will drop out of the GOP Presidential Race either tonight or by tomorrow afternoon. We might even see Ron Paul drop out of the GOP Presidential Race as well. I guess time will tell (I honestly don't think he'll drop out though).
I'll attempt to provide updates throughout the night. I think in the end Santorum will do just a little bit better than Romney. It would be interesting to see Ron Paul have a suprisingly good night though
***At 6:51PM, I switched Oklahoma to the "Rick Santorum" as the winner and "Vermont to the "Mitt Romney" winner; I think Vermont would mainly independent and fairly Tea Party Conservatives which are good for Ron Paul, but Romney has done well in New England even though he was on edge in Maine against Dr. Paul. As far Oklahoma, I think Santorum has done well in Oklahoma in terms of campaigning - through television ads and I think one stump speech in Tulsa. Ron Paul has not done anything in Oklahoma because it is a primary state and his focus is mainly for caucus states like Idaho.
Results ~
My Predictions for the 2012 Super Tuesday Primaries & Caucuses: *** = Predicted correctly
1) Alaska
2) Georgia***
3) Idaho***
4) Massachusetts***
5) North Dakota
6) Ohio
7) Oklahoma***
8) Tennessee***
9) Vermont***
10) Virginia***
Since Super Tuesday is here, it is important to know which states are voting today. It is a list of only ten states. Those states are:
1) Alaska - 27 Delegates
2) Georgia - 76 Delegates
3) Idaho - 32 Delegates
4) Massachusetts - 41 Delegates
5) North Dakota - 28 Delegates
6) Ohio - 66 Delegates
7) Oklahoma - 43 Delegates
8) Tennessee - 58 Delegates
9) Vermont - 17 Delegates
10) Virginia - 49 Delegates
Bear in mind that 419 delegates are up to be claimed by and of the four candidates: Romney, Santorum, Paul, and Gingrich. Now, here are my predictions before the polls start to close in less than an hour.
My Predictions for the 2012 Super Tuesday Primaries & Caucuses:
(*** = I made a correct prediction)
1) Alaska - Ron Paul
2) Idaho - Mitt Romney
3) Georgia - Newt Gingrich
4) Massachusetts - Mitt Romney
5) North Dakota - Ron Paul
6) Ohio - Rick Santorum
7) Oklahoma - Rick Santorum
8) Tennessee - Rick Santorum
9) Vermont - Mitt Romney
10) Virginia - Mitt Romney (but it will be a long count to ensure this win)
I do think Newt Gingrich will drop out of the GOP Presidential Race either tonight or by tomorrow afternoon. We might even see Ron Paul drop out of the GOP Presidential Race as well. I guess time will tell (I honestly don't think he'll drop out though).
I'll attempt to provide updates throughout the night. I think in the end Santorum will do just a little bit better than Romney. It would be interesting to see Ron Paul have a suprisingly good night though
***At 6:51PM, I switched Oklahoma to the "Rick Santorum" as the winner and "Vermont to the "Mitt Romney" winner; I think Vermont would mainly independent and fairly Tea Party Conservatives which are good for Ron Paul, but Romney has done well in New England even though he was on edge in Maine against Dr. Paul. As far Oklahoma, I think Santorum has done well in Oklahoma in terms of campaigning - through television ads and I think one stump speech in Tulsa. Ron Paul has not done anything in Oklahoma because it is a primary state and his focus is mainly for caucus states like Idaho.
Results ~
My Predictions for the 2012 Super Tuesday Primaries & Caucuses: *** = Predicted correctly
1) Alaska
2) Georgia***
3) Idaho***
4) Massachusetts***
5) North Dakota
6) Ohio
7) Oklahoma***
8) Tennessee***
9) Vermont***
10) Virginia***
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
A Night of Political Wonders
First things first: Today is a Primary (and Caucus) day!!!
I think that Rick Santorum will win Michigan by at least 8% points; Mitt Romney will win Arizona by at least 11% points, and he'll also win the Wyoming Caucus. I am currently blogging as I'm watching CNN results so this is a first for me.
I want to quickly discuss the apology made by President Obama regarding the Quran burning. I think it was right for him to apologize. From a military standpoint, I think it is always better to try and alleviate the situation and ease tensions in an already-tense area of the world. It is not different than when President Bush apologized for actions taken in Iraq with similar events of burning religious texts.
Alright, back on tonight's primary races. We are less than thirty minutes away from the first rounds of election results in Michigan. I don't think anyone will drop out tonight mainly since Super Tuesday is quickly approaching. Gingrich is still polling well in the South and Santorum has really started spending money in Tennesse. Overall, I think Super Tuesday will be a Gingrich's "Huntsman" moment because he has so much at stake. If he doesn't do well, he will drop out and endorse Santorum. Okay, I'll try and blog a little later on in the night.
I think that Rick Santorum will win Michigan by at least 8% points; Mitt Romney will win Arizona by at least 11% points, and he'll also win the Wyoming Caucus. I am currently blogging as I'm watching CNN results so this is a first for me.
I want to quickly discuss the apology made by President Obama regarding the Quran burning. I think it was right for him to apologize. From a military standpoint, I think it is always better to try and alleviate the situation and ease tensions in an already-tense area of the world. It is not different than when President Bush apologized for actions taken in Iraq with similar events of burning religious texts.
Alright, back on tonight's primary races. We are less than thirty minutes away from the first rounds of election results in Michigan. I don't think anyone will drop out tonight mainly since Super Tuesday is quickly approaching. Gingrich is still polling well in the South and Santorum has really started spending money in Tennesse. Overall, I think Super Tuesday will be a Gingrich's "Huntsman" moment because he has so much at stake. If he doesn't do well, he will drop out and endorse Santorum. Okay, I'll try and blog a little later on in the night.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
A Whirlwind of Pop Culture & Political Points
It’s been a few weeks since I’ve last posted an entry; and,
I apologize for my laziness. It seems
that a lot has happened since then.
Allow me to recap:
The only thing I really have to say regarding this: Did anyone really think he would lose Maine? Last I checked, it was in New England where Massachusetts is also located – not to mention New Hampshire. I think the real story behind Maine is that Ron Paul did really well in the state. Paul finishing second within a narrower-than-expected margin should have had the Romney campaign shaking just a tad. I do think Paul’s “The revolution is just beginning” moment was certainly his “Opps” moment of the campaign. When someone says revolution, the first thing that comes to minds is war; more specifically, the Civil War. Granted the United States is somewhat divided – politically speaking – I hardly believe that a real revolution is happening because a GOP candidate got second place in a state that really has no significance to the race to become the Commander-In-Chief. I am not disrespecting Maine, its residents, or its political process; I am just stating that it is not all that important when it comes to Presidential politics.
Topic 2: Colorado, Missouri, and Minnesota Were Won by Rick Santorum
Honestly, just when the Romney Campaign thinks they have the nomination in their solid possession! Seriously, the fact that Rick Santorum swept all three states speaks volumes! For instance, Romney knew he would win Colorado. That state alone dealt a huge blow to his campaign to be the GOP nominee. By Santorum earning all of these states clearly demonstrates that Republicans are still not satisfied with any of the candidates from their party to beat the President. On a side note, I am glad Santorum did not wear a sweater vest during his speech that night. I am a strong supporter of sweater vests – I own many and none of them are from Jos A Banks - but he should not wear them! The thing for Santorum needs to do is maintain his momentum into Michigan & Arizona…and the debate on the twenty-second.
Topic 3: Whitney Houston has Died
What? He is going to talk about something other than politics??? Yes, I am. The death of Whitney Houston was a shockwave through the musical community. I was a fan of her while growing up. I even remember sitting in from of the television watching her sing the national anthem back in 1991 (then going to my room because I didn’t want to watch the game). She had an amazing career and I think I have downloaded at least five of her songs onto my iPhone since Saturday. In fact, as I am writing this, her song “I’m Every Woman” popped up on the iTunes shuffle. RIP Whitney Houston; you’ll be missed & we’ll always love you!
Topic 4: Adele Dominates the Grammy Awards
If you have never heard of Adele, you need to find a song of hers and listen to it! I would recommend starting with “Rolling in the Deep” because her vocals are amazing! She is my favorite artist right now and she deserved every one of those Grammy’s. She is similar to Norah Jones. I think I heard someone compare her to Reba…only way better (and I politely told them off for such remarks)! She is just an amazing singer and her music is pure. Every time I listen to her songs, I get a chill or something. She just has that affect. I love her and I definitely recommend her! I think my favorite song of hers is “Rumor Has It” or “Turning Tables”…I really can’t decide! (Turning Tables is currently playing on my iPhone, haha!) Also, “Rolling in the Deep” is a great Runway song, haha!
Topic 5: Rick Santorum is Leading in at Least Two National Polls
Yep, you read that right! The former Pennsylvania Senator is leading in both the Pew Public Policy and I think Gallup. A couple of things about these polls: he is within the margin of error so essentially he can Romney are tied and one of them was released before the Michigan poll which has Santorum leading in every county except……I want to say Cumberland but I know that’s wrong……Lincoln? Anyway, it’s the county that has the Chrysler museum and is home to GM. Needless to say, Santorum is leading in 82/83 of Michigan’s counties. In case anyone missed this: Mitt Romney was born in Michigan! If he loses his actual home state, that would be really bad for his campaign. The other state nobody is really paying attention to, although they should, is Arizona. The main thing to look for is turnout. Even Arizona Senator John McCain mentioned that if Republicans don’t lighten up on the Hispanic vote they will lose that voting bloc all together. Regarding the debate, let’s see how the candidates will jump around immigration or other issues important to Hispanic voters (like the Dream Act, Arizona’s state law seventy-seven, a fence on the border, Governor Jan Brewer in general, Alabama’s educational flaws towards Hispanic children, Puerto Rico statehood – a real answer this time instead of “kick the can down the road” answer, etc). By the way, the only county in Michigan that Romney is leading Santorum: Oakland (It finally came to me).
Topic 7: Newt Gingrich Has Not Dropped Out Of the Race
The only thing I will say about this is that I predict he will drop out after Super Tuesday. I can’t stand him and I don’t want to give him any more consideration than I have too. He should have already conceded but he is stubborn and angry.
Topic 8: President Obama Took a Stand on Birth Control & Contraceptives
This week, President Obama reaffirmed his position regarding women’s rights and the Affordable Care Act which was passed into law – thank goodness! I don’t fully understand why the 2012 election is going to be geared towards social issues instead of economic ones. If we fail to acknowledge economic woes – and yes this is directed towards Republicans – then we will be heading down the same road that Greece and Portugal are going down at the current moment. The moral: Straighten up, get your head out of the sand, and work with the President on these pressing issues! Worry about your jobs later!
Topic 9: The 136th Westminster Kennel Club is Having It’s Dog Show in New York
I love this annual event! I love dogs and I always get to see my favorite dog which is the national dog of Finland: the Finish Spitz. I have three yellow labs (two are mixed with retriever and the third is beagle I do believe). They are awesome family members and I love them! It’s funny because we watch the Dog Show together and my dog, Bridgett, always growls because she thinks they are coming towards me. She is so protective, haha! I really want the Pekingese to win this year! Finally,
Topic 10: U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer was Robbed by Machete at His Home
First of all, this story is a week old. Second, where was the Secret Service??? All Supreme Court Justices receive Secret Service Protect so did they have the day off? The third thing is that it was a machete. Did someone not have a golf club or a vase to just throw at the robber? I mean, come on people!
I figured I mixed up the topics instead of categorizing them by subject (yes I do that and be very glad I didn’t this time even though it is bothering me). I figured the pop culture gave you a break from the political stuff and allowed you to keep reading. By the way, I’m officially a quarter-of-a-century old. I don’t feel like it and it happened last Wednesday.
1)
The Maine Caucuses were won by Mitt Romney;
2)
Colorado, Missouri, and Minnesota were won by
Rick Santorum;
3)
Whitney Houston has died;
4)
Adele dominates the Grammy Awards;
5)
Rick Santorum is leading in at least two
national polls;
6)
Glee keeps getting better;
7)
Newt Gingrich has not dropped out of the race;
8)
President Obama took a stand on Birth control
& Contraceptives;
9)
The 136th Westminster Kennel Club has
it’s dog show in New York; and,
10)
United States Supreme Court Justice Stephen
Breyer was robbed by Machete.
Please note that these events are not in any particular
order or level of importance. In fact,
they randomly are the ones that stood out the most to me. I know for many of you are shocked and
wondering why I did not mention “Budget Day” or its importance…I wanted to keep
it short and I knew the budget should be respected and have its own blog entry. I shall attempt to discuss every event I
listed above without making random, sarcastic comments. Yes, this will be hard to do but I assure
you…it can be done!
Topic 1: The Maine Caucuses Were Won by Mitt RomneyThe only thing I really have to say regarding this: Did anyone really think he would lose Maine? Last I checked, it was in New England where Massachusetts is also located – not to mention New Hampshire. I think the real story behind Maine is that Ron Paul did really well in the state. Paul finishing second within a narrower-than-expected margin should have had the Romney campaign shaking just a tad. I do think Paul’s “The revolution is just beginning” moment was certainly his “Opps” moment of the campaign. When someone says revolution, the first thing that comes to minds is war; more specifically, the Civil War. Granted the United States is somewhat divided – politically speaking – I hardly believe that a real revolution is happening because a GOP candidate got second place in a state that really has no significance to the race to become the Commander-In-Chief. I am not disrespecting Maine, its residents, or its political process; I am just stating that it is not all that important when it comes to Presidential politics.
Topic 2: Colorado, Missouri, and Minnesota Were Won by Rick Santorum
Honestly, just when the Romney Campaign thinks they have the nomination in their solid possession! Seriously, the fact that Rick Santorum swept all three states speaks volumes! For instance, Romney knew he would win Colorado. That state alone dealt a huge blow to his campaign to be the GOP nominee. By Santorum earning all of these states clearly demonstrates that Republicans are still not satisfied with any of the candidates from their party to beat the President. On a side note, I am glad Santorum did not wear a sweater vest during his speech that night. I am a strong supporter of sweater vests – I own many and none of them are from Jos A Banks - but he should not wear them! The thing for Santorum needs to do is maintain his momentum into Michigan & Arizona…and the debate on the twenty-second.
Topic 3: Whitney Houston has Died
What? He is going to talk about something other than politics??? Yes, I am. The death of Whitney Houston was a shockwave through the musical community. I was a fan of her while growing up. I even remember sitting in from of the television watching her sing the national anthem back in 1991 (then going to my room because I didn’t want to watch the game). She had an amazing career and I think I have downloaded at least five of her songs onto my iPhone since Saturday. In fact, as I am writing this, her song “I’m Every Woman” popped up on the iTunes shuffle. RIP Whitney Houston; you’ll be missed & we’ll always love you!
Topic 4: Adele Dominates the Grammy Awards
If you have never heard of Adele, you need to find a song of hers and listen to it! I would recommend starting with “Rolling in the Deep” because her vocals are amazing! She is my favorite artist right now and she deserved every one of those Grammy’s. She is similar to Norah Jones. I think I heard someone compare her to Reba…only way better (and I politely told them off for such remarks)! She is just an amazing singer and her music is pure. Every time I listen to her songs, I get a chill or something. She just has that affect. I love her and I definitely recommend her! I think my favorite song of hers is “Rumor Has It” or “Turning Tables”…I really can’t decide! (Turning Tables is currently playing on my iPhone, haha!) Also, “Rolling in the Deep” is a great Runway song, haha!
Topic 5: Rick Santorum is Leading in at Least Two National Polls
Yep, you read that right! The former Pennsylvania Senator is leading in both the Pew Public Policy and I think Gallup. A couple of things about these polls: he is within the margin of error so essentially he can Romney are tied and one of them was released before the Michigan poll which has Santorum leading in every county except……I want to say Cumberland but I know that’s wrong……Lincoln? Anyway, it’s the county that has the Chrysler museum and is home to GM. Needless to say, Santorum is leading in 82/83 of Michigan’s counties. In case anyone missed this: Mitt Romney was born in Michigan! If he loses his actual home state, that would be really bad for his campaign. The other state nobody is really paying attention to, although they should, is Arizona. The main thing to look for is turnout. Even Arizona Senator John McCain mentioned that if Republicans don’t lighten up on the Hispanic vote they will lose that voting bloc all together. Regarding the debate, let’s see how the candidates will jump around immigration or other issues important to Hispanic voters (like the Dream Act, Arizona’s state law seventy-seven, a fence on the border, Governor Jan Brewer in general, Alabama’s educational flaws towards Hispanic children, Puerto Rico statehood – a real answer this time instead of “kick the can down the road” answer, etc). By the way, the only county in Michigan that Romney is leading Santorum: Oakland (It finally came to me).
Topic 6: Glee Keeps Getting Better
Everyone knows I love Glee. This is the best show on Fox
(well, I do like the Voice as well but that’s beside the point). I follow a majority of the Glee cast on
Twitter and I definitely have favorites.
I do like the new villain, Sebastian the lead Warbler from Dalton
Academy. I still love the Kurt/Blaine relationship and how strong that
remains. I really have not liked Quinn’s
character the past few weeks. She just seems to be there and I really just find
her to be annoying now. I really am torn
between the “Finn proposal” because I think that you don’t have to resort to
marriage if you get rejected from a college.
I know college is not for everyone…neither is marriage….but I really
didn’t like the message that sent to
viewers - “kids, if you don’t get into college then good news: you can get
married”! I think in the end Mercedes
will not choose Sam (but I hope not).Topic 7: Newt Gingrich Has Not Dropped Out Of the Race
The only thing I will say about this is that I predict he will drop out after Super Tuesday. I can’t stand him and I don’t want to give him any more consideration than I have too. He should have already conceded but he is stubborn and angry.
Topic 8: President Obama Took a Stand on Birth Control & Contraceptives
This week, President Obama reaffirmed his position regarding women’s rights and the Affordable Care Act which was passed into law – thank goodness! I don’t fully understand why the 2012 election is going to be geared towards social issues instead of economic ones. If we fail to acknowledge economic woes – and yes this is directed towards Republicans – then we will be heading down the same road that Greece and Portugal are going down at the current moment. The moral: Straighten up, get your head out of the sand, and work with the President on these pressing issues! Worry about your jobs later!
Topic 9: The 136th Westminster Kennel Club is Having It’s Dog Show in New York
I love this annual event! I love dogs and I always get to see my favorite dog which is the national dog of Finland: the Finish Spitz. I have three yellow labs (two are mixed with retriever and the third is beagle I do believe). They are awesome family members and I love them! It’s funny because we watch the Dog Show together and my dog, Bridgett, always growls because she thinks they are coming towards me. She is so protective, haha! I really want the Pekingese to win this year! Finally,
Topic 10: U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer was Robbed by Machete at His Home
First of all, this story is a week old. Second, where was the Secret Service??? All Supreme Court Justices receive Secret Service Protect so did they have the day off? The third thing is that it was a machete. Did someone not have a golf club or a vase to just throw at the robber? I mean, come on people!
I figured I mixed up the topics instead of categorizing them by subject (yes I do that and be very glad I didn’t this time even though it is bothering me). I figured the pop culture gave you a break from the political stuff and allowed you to keep reading. By the way, I’m officially a quarter-of-a-century old. I don’t feel like it and it happened last Wednesday.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Raised in the South[ern Political Scene]
I predicted Rick Perry would drop out to become the GOP Presidential nominee (last night as well as a week ago). This is due to his low polling numbers and his inability to finish a coherent, or valid point, in any debate. Besides, I can't image the voters would want their next president to come from Texas (after President Obama's second term...and no offense to any Texans I know). I also know that Jon Huntsman dropped out this week; I wish Perry had of done so before Huntsman.
Okay, with two days left until the South Carolina Presidential Primary, it is only fitting to briefly discuss the Palmetto State. After that, I'll give my predictions. Now, my predictions will be a little harder to solidify mainly because a lot has taken place within the past five hours and everything goes back to square three (figuratively-speaking). In addition, I couldn't give an accurate prediction because:
1) I don't have a PhD...yet;
2) South Carolina is tough to call because only two GOP candidates have campaigned and been in official primary polls before (Romney & Paul), and
3) I live in North Carolina - the better of the two states as life is better on top of things.
South Carolina is one of the states with the highest unemployment rates in the country- currently 9.2% if I remember correctly. This is surely above the national average of 8.4%. In addition to a horrid job market, South Carolinians are relatively influenced by religion. Over half of all residents of the Palmetto State are evangelical Christians and believe in the King James Bible (which is not a bad thing, but it can be used as a highly effective way to reach out to voters). South Carolina's devotion to raising revenue is not just found in Religion; it is also found in its travel and tourism industry. For this sector of the state economy, the focal points include Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, Charleston, Columbia (the state capital for those that are not good with geography), and even Spartanburg & Greenville.
The south offers a lot of wonders...in South Carolina, not so much. I still have yet to understand, or have been explained the reasoning, why South Carolina is so important to be considered worthy of being the "Primary of the South" breadwinner for professional politics. I would image there are way better places within the southern states that could represent the "Southern Vote" than the state of South Carolina. Heck, even from a historical standpoint the capital of the Confederation was never in South Carolina, Sherman's March did NOT go through Columbia or anywhere else in the Palmetto State, Gettysburg was in Pennsylvania, and Fort Sumpter is in South Carolina but it wasn't even that big of a deal (I know I'll get an earful from all my History-fanatic friends later on that issue). Even though South Carolina was the first to secede from the Union, this does not make it valid for them to be dubbed as "first primary in the south and what we say goes" because - the end of the day - South Carolina: fought in a war...and lost, good reprimanded, supported slavery, had their economy crushed because of said issues, acted like a five year-old by rebelling, and has good places to get food (real BBQ comes from NORTH Carolina).
Anyway, onto the importance of predicting the South Carolina GOP Presidential Primary:
1st - Romney 33%
2nd - Gingrich 31%
3rd - Santorum 19 %
4th - Paul 17%
After everything settles down in South Carolina - and the lights go out in Georgia (don't ask) - all eyes will turn onto the Sunshine State...and no, it's not Ohio! While I have many friends from Florida, I hope they have stepped up their voting procedures since the last election cycles. I mean, honestly, we don't need another reason to hate Florida. I image they'll do alright since 2000 still haunts them to this day, haha!
Don't forget the SC Debate is on today at 8pm on CNN.
If you want to contact me and discuss any political issues or thoughts, then feel free:
E-mail ~ timoteohines@gmail.com
Facebook ~ Tim Hines
Twitter ~ @timoteohines
Okay, with two days left until the South Carolina Presidential Primary, it is only fitting to briefly discuss the Palmetto State. After that, I'll give my predictions. Now, my predictions will be a little harder to solidify mainly because a lot has taken place within the past five hours and everything goes back to square three (figuratively-speaking). In addition, I couldn't give an accurate prediction because:
1) I don't have a PhD...yet;
2) South Carolina is tough to call because only two GOP candidates have campaigned and been in official primary polls before (Romney & Paul), and
3) I live in North Carolina - the better of the two states as life is better on top of things.
South Carolina is one of the states with the highest unemployment rates in the country- currently 9.2% if I remember correctly. This is surely above the national average of 8.4%. In addition to a horrid job market, South Carolinians are relatively influenced by religion. Over half of all residents of the Palmetto State are evangelical Christians and believe in the King James Bible (which is not a bad thing, but it can be used as a highly effective way to reach out to voters). South Carolina's devotion to raising revenue is not just found in Religion; it is also found in its travel and tourism industry. For this sector of the state economy, the focal points include Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, Charleston, Columbia (the state capital for those that are not good with geography), and even Spartanburg & Greenville.
The south offers a lot of wonders...in South Carolina, not so much. I still have yet to understand, or have been explained the reasoning, why South Carolina is so important to be considered worthy of being the "Primary of the South" breadwinner for professional politics. I would image there are way better places within the southern states that could represent the "Southern Vote" than the state of South Carolina. Heck, even from a historical standpoint the capital of the Confederation was never in South Carolina, Sherman's March did NOT go through Columbia or anywhere else in the Palmetto State, Gettysburg was in Pennsylvania, and Fort Sumpter is in South Carolina but it wasn't even that big of a deal (I know I'll get an earful from all my History-fanatic friends later on that issue). Even though South Carolina was the first to secede from the Union, this does not make it valid for them to be dubbed as "first primary in the south and what we say goes" because - the end of the day - South Carolina: fought in a war...and lost, good reprimanded, supported slavery, had their economy crushed because of said issues, acted like a five year-old by rebelling, and has good places to get food (real BBQ comes from NORTH Carolina).
Anyway, onto the importance of predicting the South Carolina GOP Presidential Primary:
1st - Romney 33%
2nd - Gingrich 31%
3rd - Santorum 19 %
4th - Paul 17%
After everything settles down in South Carolina - and the lights go out in Georgia (don't ask) - all eyes will turn onto the Sunshine State...and no, it's not Ohio! While I have many friends from Florida, I hope they have stepped up their voting procedures since the last election cycles. I mean, honestly, we don't need another reason to hate Florida. I image they'll do alright since 2000 still haunts them to this day, haha!
Don't forget the SC Debate is on today at 8pm on CNN.
If you want to contact me and discuss any political issues or thoughts, then feel free:
E-mail ~ timoteohines@gmail.com
Facebook ~ Tim Hines
Twitter ~ @timoteohines
Monday, January 9, 2012
New Hampshire: Where Potential Presidential Candidates EARN Their vote
With only two days until Republicans - and Independents - in New Hampshire go to the cast their vote in the Presidential Primary election, only Republicans will be able to pick a candidate who will face President Obama in November (and lose). Let me clarify, New Hampshire voters have a better track record for picking party nominees and presidents. I mean, they voted for McCain for the Republicans back in 08 and went to Obama in the general election. They know their politics.
With all of that in mind, I'd like to focus on Mitt Romney - the presumed GOP nominee to challenge the President this year. When he ran in 2008, he received only 31% of the primary votes and did not get the party nomination. Furthermore, I think the voters of the Granite State understand the "accomplishments" of the governor next door. Such accomplishments include: raising taxes and fees for corporations as well as on middle-class families in "The Bay State" during his tenure as their governor, making the model for "ObamaCare" from his "RomneyCare" healthcare plan, integration of English into schools (which does not even make sense and is not needed) to combat illegal immigration - because after all, Massachusetts has a lot of illegal immigrants from Canada and should therefore be considered a border state...maybe they have a pirate issue as well!
Okay, so here is my predictions for the 2012 New Hampshire Presidential Primary:
Mitt Romney - 30%
Jon Huntsman - 24%
Ron Paul - 19%
Rick Santorum - 14%
Newt Gingrich - 11%*
Rick Perry - 3%*
* - Both of these candidates will not drop out after New Hampshire as they purchased huge amounts of TV ad time in South Carolina - and I'm being forced to watch them as I'm in the viewing area.
Even though Romney has a commanding lead right now, I really think his performance in this weekend's debates will hurt him in the final stretch leading up to the primaries. Personally, I think his attack on Jon Huntsman's service to the nation was shameful and downright arrogant (equal to the $10,000 bet offer). He should win the Dumb-Ass award, not the GOP nomination. (Huntsman 1, Romney 0)
Speaking of Jon Huntsman, I'm so glad he got the endorsement of the Boston Globe - which was a big brush-off to Romney (Huntsman 2, Romney 0). Huntsman's climb in the polls is a great sign...I just hope it will last through Tuesday. If Huntsman wins in New Hampshire - BIG IF (even I don't predict it) - then that would be a huge setback for Team Romney. [I would like to also add that I am really annoyed that the political pundits have the candidates as teams....this is NOT a freakin' tween novel series!!! But, if we are going to go down that route, then I am Team Huntsman & Team Obama, haha.] Yes, I am a fan of Jon Huntsman; moreover, he is the ONLY GOP candidate I will support...I'm still not liking Ron Paul. Why [you may ask]; because I'm not a noob. <---Inside joke by the way.
Huntsman had his best debate performance on Sunday during ABC's Meet The Press. This is the one where he put Romney in his place regarding his service to the country - and his two sons serving in the military. Once he heard Romney's lame attempt to gain more votes, Huntsman looked at the voters of New Hampshire - and those to tuned into the program - and said, "this is why America is divided; because of views like that" which received a thunderous applause from the crowd (and yes, I gave a standing ovation right there in my living room). After that, I really couldn't help but notice that Santorum was trying to play the "I'm a evangelical, tea-partier-but-not-really, anti-gay candidate" which was just comical.
I do not understand how Rick Santorum almost won the Iowa Caucus. To clarify, I know HOW; but, it still baffles me and even scares me because he has no substance. He merely latched onto the Huckabee endorsement and took it to the bank - he's lucky it worked in Iowa because it won't do a thing in New Hampshire. Remember, Huckabee gained only 11% of the Republican primary votes in 2008. They want someone better than that so Santorum should pick up on that. He found out that same-sex marriage is still accepted in New Hampshire when he was booed at a rally in Concord this past week. Also, if you are going to pull off the sweater vest look, please buy them from a respectable store like Brooks Brothers, Banana Republic, or Gap. Jos. A Banks is NOT the place to buy sweater vests. It is a place to buy sweaters but NEVER sweater vests. [Yes, there is a difference and it is more than just one having sleeves versus one not having sleeves.] Moving on to the other candidates.
The only thing I will say about Rick Perry is that I'm glad he remembered the three agencies he wanted to eliminate. I am also thrilled to learn that he blames George W Bush for the mess that the country is currently experiencing. He further proved why the United States does NOT need to elect another person from Texas - because they screw the country up worse than Texas Two-Step on Tuesday night instead of Friday night. Well, I'm guessing that's when they have dancing night as I'm sure they don't watch Glee in Texas - even though Mark Salling is from Texas. If Perry were to get elected, then the Congress would do to him what they do in Texas - they'd "treat him ugly" and veto anything he tried to abolish. One last thing about Perry: I think when you governor a state that has always tried to secede from the union, you should automatically be disqualified to hold the nation's highest office. As long as I'm talking Texas politicians, I really don't think Ron Paul will do anything after Florida. With that said, he'll bow out and retire from politics.
Newt Gingrich, on the other hand, will continue to fight for the nomination and cry "flip-flopper", "bad governor" and fit "Reagan conservative" into every sound-bite he can. I love it when Republicans want to lower taxes, yet "The Gipper" raises taxes over eight times during his time in the White House. Don't you just love Reaganomics? If you are like me and barely remember Reagan, just look to the last Republican President: Ol' W. That's right, George W Bush paved the way for tax cuts to those wealthiest Americans & corporations - yet lost over seven million jobs during his time and office AND signed two free-trade agreements sending jobs elsewhere. Let's also remember that Bush made a lot more recess appointments than Obama...or should I save that for another time? :D
After Tuesday, the candidates will travel to my area of the country. I will try my best to make the drive to South Carolina - as Greenville & Spartanburg are only an hour & twenty-to-thirty minutes away - to see if i can get a picture or shake a hand with these candidates. It's not that I'm endorsing them; it's just the fact that I am being a part of history and it will be a chapter in my book whenever I decide to write it. I would have said something to tell the kids and grandchildren, but I don't see myself being a parent anytime in the next twenty or thirty years. The future Mrs. will have to be just as politically-minded, if not more so, than I am .
With all of that in mind, I'd like to focus on Mitt Romney - the presumed GOP nominee to challenge the President this year. When he ran in 2008, he received only 31% of the primary votes and did not get the party nomination. Furthermore, I think the voters of the Granite State understand the "accomplishments" of the governor next door. Such accomplishments include: raising taxes and fees for corporations as well as on middle-class families in "The Bay State" during his tenure as their governor, making the model for "ObamaCare" from his "RomneyCare" healthcare plan, integration of English into schools (which does not even make sense and is not needed) to combat illegal immigration - because after all, Massachusetts has a lot of illegal immigrants from Canada and should therefore be considered a border state...maybe they have a pirate issue as well!
Okay, so here is my predictions for the 2012 New Hampshire Presidential Primary:
Mitt Romney - 30%
Jon Huntsman - 24%
Ron Paul - 19%
Rick Santorum - 14%
Newt Gingrich - 11%*
Rick Perry - 3%*
* - Both of these candidates will not drop out after New Hampshire as they purchased huge amounts of TV ad time in South Carolina - and I'm being forced to watch them as I'm in the viewing area.
Even though Romney has a commanding lead right now, I really think his performance in this weekend's debates will hurt him in the final stretch leading up to the primaries. Personally, I think his attack on Jon Huntsman's service to the nation was shameful and downright arrogant (equal to the $10,000 bet offer). He should win the Dumb-Ass award, not the GOP nomination. (Huntsman 1, Romney 0)
Speaking of Jon Huntsman, I'm so glad he got the endorsement of the Boston Globe - which was a big brush-off to Romney (Huntsman 2, Romney 0). Huntsman's climb in the polls is a great sign...I just hope it will last through Tuesday. If Huntsman wins in New Hampshire - BIG IF (even I don't predict it) - then that would be a huge setback for Team Romney. [I would like to also add that I am really annoyed that the political pundits have the candidates as teams....this is NOT a freakin' tween novel series!!! But, if we are going to go down that route, then I am Team Huntsman & Team Obama, haha.] Yes, I am a fan of Jon Huntsman; moreover, he is the ONLY GOP candidate I will support...I'm still not liking Ron Paul. Why [you may ask]; because I'm not a noob. <---Inside joke by the way.
Huntsman had his best debate performance on Sunday during ABC's Meet The Press. This is the one where he put Romney in his place regarding his service to the country - and his two sons serving in the military. Once he heard Romney's lame attempt to gain more votes, Huntsman looked at the voters of New Hampshire - and those to tuned into the program - and said, "this is why America is divided; because of views like that" which received a thunderous applause from the crowd (and yes, I gave a standing ovation right there in my living room). After that, I really couldn't help but notice that Santorum was trying to play the "I'm a evangelical, tea-partier-but-not-really, anti-gay candidate" which was just comical.
I do not understand how Rick Santorum almost won the Iowa Caucus. To clarify, I know HOW; but, it still baffles me and even scares me because he has no substance. He merely latched onto the Huckabee endorsement and took it to the bank - he's lucky it worked in Iowa because it won't do a thing in New Hampshire. Remember, Huckabee gained only 11% of the Republican primary votes in 2008. They want someone better than that so Santorum should pick up on that. He found out that same-sex marriage is still accepted in New Hampshire when he was booed at a rally in Concord this past week. Also, if you are going to pull off the sweater vest look, please buy them from a respectable store like Brooks Brothers, Banana Republic, or Gap. Jos. A Banks is NOT the place to buy sweater vests. It is a place to buy sweaters but NEVER sweater vests. [Yes, there is a difference and it is more than just one having sleeves versus one not having sleeves.] Moving on to the other candidates.
The only thing I will say about Rick Perry is that I'm glad he remembered the three agencies he wanted to eliminate. I am also thrilled to learn that he blames George W Bush for the mess that the country is currently experiencing. He further proved why the United States does NOT need to elect another person from Texas - because they screw the country up worse than Texas Two-Step on Tuesday night instead of Friday night. Well, I'm guessing that's when they have dancing night as I'm sure they don't watch Glee in Texas - even though Mark Salling is from Texas. If Perry were to get elected, then the Congress would do to him what they do in Texas - they'd "treat him ugly" and veto anything he tried to abolish. One last thing about Perry: I think when you governor a state that has always tried to secede from the union, you should automatically be disqualified to hold the nation's highest office. As long as I'm talking Texas politicians, I really don't think Ron Paul will do anything after Florida. With that said, he'll bow out and retire from politics.
Newt Gingrich, on the other hand, will continue to fight for the nomination and cry "flip-flopper", "bad governor" and fit "Reagan conservative" into every sound-bite he can. I love it when Republicans want to lower taxes, yet "The Gipper" raises taxes over eight times during his time in the White House. Don't you just love Reaganomics? If you are like me and barely remember Reagan, just look to the last Republican President: Ol' W. That's right, George W Bush paved the way for tax cuts to those wealthiest Americans & corporations - yet lost over seven million jobs during his time and office AND signed two free-trade agreements sending jobs elsewhere. Let's also remember that Bush made a lot more recess appointments than Obama...or should I save that for another time? :D
After Tuesday, the candidates will travel to my area of the country. I will try my best to make the drive to South Carolina - as Greenville & Spartanburg are only an hour & twenty-to-thirty minutes away - to see if i can get a picture or shake a hand with these candidates. It's not that I'm endorsing them; it's just the fact that I am being a part of history and it will be a chapter in my book whenever I decide to write it. I would have said something to tell the kids and grandchildren, but I don't see myself being a parent anytime in the next twenty or thirty years. The future Mrs. will have to be just as politically-minded, if not more so, than I am .
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Madness in Iowa; Next Stop - New Hampshire!
Well, once the official results were called at 2:40AM on January 4th, most people would have gone to bed. As much as I wanted to do that, I somehow managed to stay up until 3:30 just to listen to the political pundits. The Iowa Republican Caucus needs to step up their game for the next cycle. It should not take over five hours to count ballots.
Anyway, here are the official results from the 2012 Iowa Republican Caucus:
1st - Mitt Romney (30,015 votes) - 25%
2nd - Rick Santorum (30,007 votes) - 25%
3rd - Ron Paul (26,219 votes) - 21%
4th - Newt Gingrich (16,251 votes) - 13%
5th - Rick Perry (12,604 votes) - 10%**
6th - Michele Bachmann (6,073 votes) - 5%***
7th - Jon Huntsman (745 votes)- 1%*
*Remember that Huntsman focused on New Hampshire.
** Around 11:45PM on 1/3/12, Rick Perry announced he would not go directly to South Carolina; instead, he would return to Texas to "reassess" his campaign (which means he will be leaving the race within the next 48 hours or so).
*** At 11:30AM on 1/4/12, Michele Bachmann "suspended" her campaign to become the GOP nominee. She is the forth official candidate to drop out of the race to become the nominee for the Republican Party (after Pawlenty, McCotter, and Cain).
Hermain Cain, to my knowledge, earned at least five votes but since he is not longer in the race, it becomes a moot point.
Now, my predictions for the Iowa Republican Caucus looked something like this:
Ron Paul - 26%
Mitt Romney - 22%
Rick Santorum - 19%
Rick Perry - 13%
Michele Bachmann - 10%
Newt Gingrich - 7%
Jon Huntsman - 2%
So, a couple of things to keep in mind: I KNEW Huntsman would be in last place; I knew Romney would do better than Santorum and Perry would do better than Bachmann, I new Paul would get at least twenty percent, and I got at least five percentages either correct or within one or two percentage points. Also, I knew Bachmann would drop out due to poor results in Iowa - her birthplace. As previously stated in my post, "Another Debate...and they still don't get it" I predicted she would lose the Iowa Caucus...even though she won the Ames Straw Poll.
With only six days away from the New Hampshire Primary, I can only image what the wonderful citizens of the Granite State will do. Not that they need to do better than Iowa, but they will make their voices heard loud and clear in a way that will make Iowa look like a joke. Of course I'm being biased for New Hampshire...I worked there for the midterms! Haha!
Not that Santorum became so close to winning Iowa, a lot of Republicans are really taking a second look at his candidacy. I really think if he wants to main "a serious contender" for the GOP, he'll need to beat Paul in New Hampshire and beat Romney in South Carolina. I'm still figuring out what to expect from New Hampshire but when I do, I'll post my predictions. I think the biggest thing Ron Paul has to worry about is getting the votes from the older voting constituents (mainly because the younger generation just flocks to him). Voters in New Hampshire are very particular about who they are going to vote for and I would guess at least 75% of them have their minds made up already. Unlike Iowa, nobody can tell them who to vote for at the last minute and expect them to vote for that candidate. New Hampshirites know their politics! Okay, I think I have everything covered regarding Iowa; now it's time to return to the the news channels, data to read, etc.
Oh, by the way, Romney won Iowa over Santorum by only 8 VOTES!!! I never want to hear, "well my vote won't count" because EVERY VOTE COUNTS!!!
Don't forget to follow me on twitter, Facebook, or even send me an e-mail.
Twitter - @timoteohines
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Anyway, here are the official results from the 2012 Iowa Republican Caucus:
1st - Mitt Romney (30,015 votes) - 25%
2nd - Rick Santorum (30,007 votes) - 25%
3rd - Ron Paul (26,219 votes) - 21%
4th - Newt Gingrich (16,251 votes) - 13%
5th - Rick Perry (12,604 votes) - 10%**
6th - Michele Bachmann (6,073 votes) - 5%***
7th - Jon Huntsman (745 votes)- 1%*
*Remember that Huntsman focused on New Hampshire.
** Around 11:45PM on 1/3/12, Rick Perry announced he would not go directly to South Carolina; instead, he would return to Texas to "reassess" his campaign (which means he will be leaving the race within the next 48 hours or so).
*** At 11:30AM on 1/4/12, Michele Bachmann "suspended" her campaign to become the GOP nominee. She is the forth official candidate to drop out of the race to become the nominee for the Republican Party (after Pawlenty, McCotter, and Cain).
Hermain Cain, to my knowledge, earned at least five votes but since he is not longer in the race, it becomes a moot point.
Now, my predictions for the Iowa Republican Caucus looked something like this:
Ron Paul - 26%
Mitt Romney - 22%
Rick Santorum - 19%
Rick Perry - 13%
Michele Bachmann - 10%
Newt Gingrich - 7%
Jon Huntsman - 2%
So, a couple of things to keep in mind: I KNEW Huntsman would be in last place; I knew Romney would do better than Santorum and Perry would do better than Bachmann, I new Paul would get at least twenty percent, and I got at least five percentages either correct or within one or two percentage points. Also, I knew Bachmann would drop out due to poor results in Iowa - her birthplace. As previously stated in my post, "Another Debate...and they still don't get it" I predicted she would lose the Iowa Caucus...even though she won the Ames Straw Poll.
With only six days away from the New Hampshire Primary, I can only image what the wonderful citizens of the Granite State will do. Not that they need to do better than Iowa, but they will make their voices heard loud and clear in a way that will make Iowa look like a joke. Of course I'm being biased for New Hampshire...I worked there for the midterms! Haha!
Not that Santorum became so close to winning Iowa, a lot of Republicans are really taking a second look at his candidacy. I really think if he wants to main "a serious contender" for the GOP, he'll need to beat Paul in New Hampshire and beat Romney in South Carolina. I'm still figuring out what to expect from New Hampshire but when I do, I'll post my predictions. I think the biggest thing Ron Paul has to worry about is getting the votes from the older voting constituents (mainly because the younger generation just flocks to him). Voters in New Hampshire are very particular about who they are going to vote for and I would guess at least 75% of them have their minds made up already. Unlike Iowa, nobody can tell them who to vote for at the last minute and expect them to vote for that candidate. New Hampshirites know their politics! Okay, I think I have everything covered regarding Iowa; now it's time to return to the the news channels, data to read, etc.
Oh, by the way, Romney won Iowa over Santorum by only 8 VOTES!!! I never want to hear, "well my vote won't count" because EVERY VOTE COUNTS!!!
Don't forget to follow me on twitter, Facebook, or even send me an e-mail.
Twitter - @timoteohines
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Thursday, December 29, 2011
Holiday Madness approaching Iowa!
I can't believe it's been a month since my last blog entry. WOW! First things first: I hope everyone had a safe and wonderful Christmas holiday (or Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, etc). I decided to stay in North Carolina this year for Christmas. I generally travel to New York; however, I went up there for Thanksgiving so I didn't think it would be justifiable to return there for another holiday. While we received no snow in western North Carolina, it was freezing!!! I can only image what the New Year will bring in relation to winter weather. In other areas, I hope 2012 will be a good political year for me, and my party!
Now, with the Iowa Caucus only days away...I am sure it's five days & nineteen hours to be exact...I am shocked that Santorum is gaining in the polls! I mean, where did this come from?? I figured Paul would pull the upset in Iowa which would cause both Santorum, Bachmann, or both to suspend their campaigns. The latest polling data shows Santorum with 16%????? I figured even Iowans knew that this election was going to be about jobs, track records, and continuing to get the economy back on track; did they somehow miss that memo? Maybe I'm just over-analyzing this, but Iowa is not really all that much of a determination as to who will be the President of the United States - or even a party's nomination. With the exception of Carter, Bush, & Obama....anyone who ever won the Iowa Caucus never became the party nominee and won the Presidency. New Hampshire is more accurate than Iowa - and from a personal account, WAY more political and the voters KNOW their stuff (I loved working in New Hampshire for the 2010 midterms).
Honestly, here is my prediction of how the Iowa Caucus will play out*:
Ron Paul - 26%
Mitt Romney - 22%
Rick Santorum - 19%
Rick Perry - 13%
Michele Bachmann - 10%
Newt Gingrich - 7%
Jon Huntsman - 2%**
Disclaimer: The reason why I have Bachmann doing better than Gingrich is due to Herman Cain's supporters are split between her and Ron Paul. Apparently a majority of former Huckabee supporters are backing Rick Santorum...which is why I have him ahead of the Congresswoman. I really think that after everything is over in Iowa, Congresswoman Michelle Bachmann will drop out of the race to become the GOP nominee.
* One of my great friends, and dear colleague, disagrees with my predictions concerning Iowa. I image he probably did a lot better in Political Analysis/Statistics...but I don't think he went to a National Conference of Undergraduate Research, haha!
** Huntsman will receive some votes but not a lot mainly because his focus is geared towards the New Hampshire Primary. He has to at least come in first, second, or a strong third in New Hampshire in order to stay in the race to become the GOP nominee.
I've already started making my predictions about how the Democrats will regain control of the House and maintain a majority in the Senate. I'll be sure mention that at some point in the near future. For the moment, all eyes will continue to be looking at the Hawkeye State. By January 4, 2012, we will have potentially one less person trying to earn the GOP nominee-status for the November election in hopes of beating President Barack Obama! (hint: it won't happen)
Don't forget to follow me on twitter, Facebook, or even send me an e-mail.
Twitter - @timoteohines
Facebook - Tim Hines
E-mail - timoteohines@gmail.com
Now, with the Iowa Caucus only days away...I am sure it's five days & nineteen hours to be exact...I am shocked that Santorum is gaining in the polls! I mean, where did this come from?? I figured Paul would pull the upset in Iowa which would cause both Santorum, Bachmann, or both to suspend their campaigns. The latest polling data shows Santorum with 16%????? I figured even Iowans knew that this election was going to be about jobs, track records, and continuing to get the economy back on track; did they somehow miss that memo? Maybe I'm just over-analyzing this, but Iowa is not really all that much of a determination as to who will be the President of the United States - or even a party's nomination. With the exception of Carter, Bush, & Obama....anyone who ever won the Iowa Caucus never became the party nominee and won the Presidency. New Hampshire is more accurate than Iowa - and from a personal account, WAY more political and the voters KNOW their stuff (I loved working in New Hampshire for the 2010 midterms).
Honestly, here is my prediction of how the Iowa Caucus will play out*:
Ron Paul - 26%
Mitt Romney - 22%
Rick Santorum - 19%
Rick Perry - 13%
Michele Bachmann - 10%
Newt Gingrich - 7%
Jon Huntsman - 2%**
Disclaimer: The reason why I have Bachmann doing better than Gingrich is due to Herman Cain's supporters are split between her and Ron Paul. Apparently a majority of former Huckabee supporters are backing Rick Santorum...which is why I have him ahead of the Congresswoman. I really think that after everything is over in Iowa, Congresswoman Michelle Bachmann will drop out of the race to become the GOP nominee.
* One of my great friends, and dear colleague, disagrees with my predictions concerning Iowa. I image he probably did a lot better in Political Analysis/Statistics...but I don't think he went to a National Conference of Undergraduate Research, haha!
** Huntsman will receive some votes but not a lot mainly because his focus is geared towards the New Hampshire Primary. He has to at least come in first, second, or a strong third in New Hampshire in order to stay in the race to become the GOP nominee.
I've already started making my predictions about how the Democrats will regain control of the House and maintain a majority in the Senate. I'll be sure mention that at some point in the near future. For the moment, all eyes will continue to be looking at the Hawkeye State. By January 4, 2012, we will have potentially one less person trying to earn the GOP nominee-status for the November election in hopes of beating President Barack Obama! (hint: it won't happen)
Don't forget to follow me on twitter, Facebook, or even send me an e-mail.
Twitter - @timoteohines
Facebook - Tim Hines
E-mail - timoteohines@gmail.com
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