Take back Congress in November!
Submitted by Wes Clark on July 14, 2006 - 2:53pm.
UPDATE 3:16 PM CDT: General Clark wanted to take a few moments to post at Daily Kos today as well. Here is a link to his blog there http://www.dailykos.com/...
Hello, and thanks for joining me here today at the new CCN.
I certainly hope that you’re enjoying all the new and updated features here at the site!
I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone involved in the recent upgrade and their efforts in ensuring that we have an active, vibrant, and, most importantly, growing community. We’re very excited about the new CCN, and thank you all for being such an important part of it.
As I’m sure you are well aware, our nation is currently facing many critical challenges, and I feel that it is our duty as American citizens to turn this state of affairs around. The best way to do this is through exercising our democratic rights, taking back the Congress this November, and ending the Bush Era of one-party government.
I've been doing my best to speak out for Democrats while working to help as many great candidates as possible as we head towards the 2006 elections, and I would love to hear from you today and answer any questions you may have. So tell me what’s on your mind!
Well, I'm going to the College Democrats Convention. But we need a systematic approach. The Party needs to give more grants, fellowships, paid internships, and provide additional means to encourage the formation of campus chapters. For example, are we doing enough training courses for college students in organizations, and are these courses really attractive, interesting, and oversubscribed. And also, can't we offer more opportunities for students' scholarly papers? Get out the vote is the end-state, not the beginning of the effort, and if we don't plant the right seeds, the GOTV won't produce the right results.
Use it like a symbol, and to promote unity in the campaign? For those of us whom loose our voices when we get scared, it might help with security issues, too??
Our state Democratic Party is noticing that the majority of young people (new voters) are registering as Unaffiliated instead of selecting a party affiliation. Do you think this is an educational issue in that they don't understand the electoral process (i.e., caucuses, voting in primaries)? What can we do to convince them to join the Democratic Party specifically?
Thank you for your service Sir and for joining us on the blog today!
General,
I have three questions.
1. What should be the strategy to lower gas prices?
2. Should Saddam's trial in Iraq be considered a failure and just move the proceedings to the Hague?
3. Is there an indication that Saddam's physical presence in Iraq adds fuel to the insurgency?
Thank you, sir.
We aren't going to get cheaper gas until we address the geostrategic problems in the Mideast. This is adding 25-30% to the price of oil today. Eventually, the market wil respond with more exploration, production and refining, but in the near term, this is a diplomatic, strategic problem, more than an economic problem.
Let Saddam's trial alone.....it's a sideshow, and there are many more important issues at this point...And it is but one factor in a complex low-level civil war in Iraq.
Your responses are always to the point, and a breath of fresh air. Thank you for the hard work that you've been doing these past years, sir, to ensure that you're in the race to take back our country.
Blogging on PTSD Combat
Things seem to be sprialing out of control in the Middle East -- any reasons for hope or optimism?
There are many forces working to dampen the conflict and return it to the usual state of low-level hostility, bombings and the occasional rocket attack. But what these events illustrate is the melt-down of the Bush Administration's approach to US foreign policy: an invasion we didnt have to make, namecalling an axis of evil, thereby cutting off diplomatic opportunities, and a reluctance to engage in the kinds of hands-on leadership that other US leaders have successfully undertaken. This Administration actually profits from raising fears among Americas, and after watching this for five and a half years, i believe that there is much to be afraid of if the Administration persists in its approach.
General Clark,
It's clear to me that your view of government policy is that it should serve the general welfare as opposed to special interests.
Would you agree with me that currently, both foreign and domestic, government policy is written by and for a small powerful elite and that the common good is barely considered if at all. And that this elite currently controls all branches of government as well as the traditional press?
If you agree with this premise, how do you propose to keep the mainstream media from marginalizing your populist message while they are busy anointing a "traditional" Democratic "frontrunner" for whom government would be business as usual in the unlikely event they managed to win?
General what affect will the lebanese and Israeli conflict have on Iraq?
SSG M G Bailey disabled vet Army 73-82 and Gulf War 1
Right now the fighting is more of a distraction than anything else....it takes US leadership away from the issues inside Iraq, undercuts our ability to muster international assistance for the Iraqis and generates additional anger at the American presence in Iraq from the Arab "street." But if the fighting escalates, it could invite more powerful Iranian interference in Iraq and even cause US commanders to look seriously at whether the US would have to intervene in Syria.
Just moved into IL-8, one of the wealthiest districts in the country (although I'll be pulling that household average down); you can't go a mile without passing a horse farm or golf course. Phil Crane-R held the district for 35 years; it's held now by Melissa Bean-D. I see you have endorsed Duckworth in adjacent IL-6, but not my Rep.
Bean has raised a ton of money, apparently out-funded only by DeLay, but her opponent is a right-wing millionaire (to the extent he opposes abortion even in the event of rape or incest) and it's an uphill battle for a Dem around here.
She's lost some of the larger more active unions over her CAFTA vote, but I'll support any Democrat, not just the idealogically pure. Politics is a practical art, after all, and she's gotten things done with Obama and Durbin. Disgruntled union members are paying mouth service, at least, to the Progressive, to teach her a lesson. Self defeating, but then it's not my ox that was gored. Those who seem to know better simply argue one Rep won't matter, as though we can afford to throw away a seat.
Life's finite, and I just want the House back. What's the best use of time and effort: support both, just Duckworth, or just Bean?
What do you say to Hezbollah when they are upset that the world community tells them to restrain themselves and claim the same isn't being asked of Israel? That's untrue for starters, but even if it were, Israel is a sovereign nation and Hezbollah is a faction. The faction invaded Israels borders to kidnap the soldiers. Lebanon can't control Hezbollah, so it's like dealing with a failed state isn't it?
I will get this in before you get too busy Sir.
General Clark,
Thank you for your service to this country and thank you for being here on line this afternoon.
I am Barry Welsh http://www.barrywelsh.org and I am the Democratic Party Nominee for Congress in Indiana’s 6th District. We won our primary with 70% of the vote. We are challenging Mr. Mike Pence.
Since this blog is partially about taking back congress, I am here to ask you to come to our district and tell the people the truth about Iraq, this administration, and your vision for this country.
Please consider aiding our effort to defeat Mr. Pence and come to our district for a few hours.
We are running a unique campaign that does not require the millions of dollars that conventional campaigns do, however, we need a minimal war chest for marketing and advertising during the final 60 day push, and one visit from you, could fund all of that.
We need your help Sir, and Mr. Pence needs to go. The political and economic climate is ripe for this upset, and you will see that if you come to our district. I am not a career politician, I am an outsider, who first ran in 2004, but I am a leader, and worthy of your consideration.
Second, if you were President right now, (and if only wishing made it so,) what would you be doing differently if anything in regards to the Israel/Gaza/Lebanon engagements?
Thank you again for your service and your time today.
Barry Welsh Indiana 6th District Democratic Congressional Candidate
General Clark,
I'm a resident of Indiana's 6th (quite pleased and surprised to see a local Democratic candidate also blogging on here today, it's wonderful to see you here Mr. Welsh). Our district has a decent Democratic base, which is rare for Indiana, but mobilizing that base is difficult. In my own neighborhood, the poverty is such an issue that politics is not important...people are just trying to feed their families. We could use the encouragement of a visit from you, sir.
It is a shame that a district with a decent Democratic base continues to elect a Republican representative, and I honestly think the religious environment here is the major force behind it. A visit from someone like you would make a huge impact, and I personally would do everything in my power to advertise such a visit. Please consider coming here!
Sincerely,
Melanie Jones
and nice to meet you. This district was represented by Lee Hamilton in the South and Phil Sharp in the North for over 20 years and there are many Democratic Mayors and Sheriffs throughout this district. This is not a lost cause, and I hope General Clark can work something into his schedule.
Please visit the campaign website at http://www.barrywelsh.org and come to a nearby event, I would like to talk more with you.
Thanks again,
Barry Welsh
Here in Ohio, the only TV ads I'm seeing are from the Republican side. To date I've seen nadda in the way of an ad for the Democratic candidates. This concerns me.
Do you think this is due to a lack of funds or a "keeping our powder dry" till closer to election mentality, and do you feel it's wise to allow these ads to be out there unapposed?
on medications, is it the right approach in your opinion, I worked for you at NTC in 1991, I can say I knew you as a Colonel even then you were a commanding presence in any room you entered.
SSG M G Bailey disabled vet Army 73-82 and Gulf War 1
If I may ask you two brief questions firstly since we haven’t seen you on Fox since this crisis began what is your take on the situation in the Middle East. Namely the apparent war between Israel, Lebanon and the Palestinians?
Secondly we’d all love your thoughts on what Dems, particularly Dem activists such as ourselves need to be doing most to win in 06.
Thank you sir for all that you do, I’ll be sending WesPAC a 100$ check at the start of next month.
Israel had to take action against Hizballah. But the more directly that Hizballah can be targeted, the better.
as far as the elections, Democrats are going to have to speak to Americans fears and concerns about intrernational events - not just address education, health care and fairness issues.
General, thank you for taking the time to blog with us. On a sort of personal note: considering the amount of speaking you do for Dem candidates around the country, and your bad case of laryngitis during the recent campaign, have you ever thought about hiring a voice coach? I'm talking about a real live operatic voice trainer. Not for your voice, that's fine as it is, but for methods of keeping your voice strong, avoiding strain, etc. I was told the proper coach can pay dividends down the road.
Thanks a million for coming out here for Jay Fawcett's campaign this Wednesday the 19th. (Click here for the day's events, for the rest of you.)
We're looking forward to having you back for Bill Winter with that new endorsement, and thanks tons for that. Bill's an amazing candidate.
Let me know if there's anything I can do to make the day great. I'm at your service and will be at all three events (at least it was three at last count, LOL).
Stan Davis
Lakewood, CO
BE THE CHANGE you wish to see in the world.
If not us, WHO? If not now, WHEN?
is going to try and pass a bill that essentially makes Bush's NSA spying legal. What do you think the Democrats should do about this bill?
I don't agree with changing the law to give ex post facto approval to a legal violation. If the law has to be changed, then the President should be held accountable. In addition, I'd want to be sure that Democrats have a chance to see the program that's being approved.
My friends here in Pennsylvania's constant comment is: we want General Clark to "channel" Ike more! :)
I have two questions:
"There are a number of things wrong with Washington. One of them is that everyone is too far from home." --Dwight D. Eisenhower"
As a person who literally travels relentlessly across America to support & promote promising legislative candidates for Congress, what can we do to promote more of a "flat" culture in Washington & at the overall federal level that will help this new bumper crop of progressive candidates that WE ARE GOING TO ELECT IN NOVEMBER stay grounded working for their constituencies at home instead of becoming so myopically involved in the Beltway?
& question two:
Help us understand how we can best nationalize these critical midterms: "If a problem cannot be solved, enlarge it." --Dwight D. Eisenhower
& if you can, please come out for Patrick Murphy in PA! THANK YOU for everything you do.
Wes Clark: American Eagle
I tend to believe so, but I don't see national Democrats being forceful enough in declaring a "bullet point list" of the reasons why? How can we articulate persuasively how the GOP isn't making our nation--and world--more secure?
I believe he is the first enlisted vet to be endorsed and that is great. He is a real fighter.
Question: Do you intend to endorse any other non-coms?
We have some great ones. Actually, over 20, or one-third, of the Fighting Dems are enlisted guys. Two really highly qualified ones are Command Sergeant Major Tim Waltz or MN CD 1, a pint-sized bomb, and Command Sergeant Al Weed of VA, a teammate of Jim Webb who has an undergrad from Yale and a masters from Princeton.
I love the endorsed candidates we have and look forward to the ones you select in the future. We are behind you all the way on endorsed Fighting Dems, vets and non-vets.
NOTE: Two new Fighting Dems added to the Muster Roll today: one from Arkansas, Woodrow Anderson, and one from Oklahoma, Hal Spake. Hal was enlisted though he left as a officer c adet to pursue a career in the State Department. I love OK since the primary days. 64 Fighting Dem vets now running.
General Wesley Clark,
Thank you for your time, and for your wonderful recent podcast and others as well. I have enjoyed knowing more about you here on CCN community and learning all the great and good accomplishments you have achieved. It’s a great honor to be here.
I understand that the focus here is about current events and to help take back Congress for the Democrats in 2006. And I am glad the Democrats and yourself are trying to handle these important foreign affair issues and the security of America. I never felt secure with this administration because they opened up more threat to our country and didn’t deal with foreign affairs as they should have; and like you said, there is more mess to deal with... Now I always have been for the Democrats, but sooner or later I end up divided and confused on other issues such as stem cell research, abortion, and same sex marriage, which I am still in a process of trying to see from both point of views. And sometimes I do feel that I am turning my back on the church and at the same time on my country. How do I go about it as a divided voter? Or I hope this is not called a flip-flop voter…
Maryann
There are so many things going on, it is getting hard to keep track!
I listened to your excellent podcast in reference to elections 2006. I clearly understand the "rove" strategy for these elections, but I wonder if the Democratic leadership does to. Have you been speaking with Leaders Pelosi and Reid on this Rove Strategy? Are they prepared with an approach?
Also, In reference to what is going on in the Middle East, do you agree with the White House theory that Iran and/or Syria is behind current Hezbollah action that we are seeing, and if so, how can the United States or the U.N. get the nations involved to stop escalating the violence? Is the United States still seeing as an "honest Broker" by the parties involved, and if not (I don't particularily think that we are seen that way any longer) does that mean that we, the United States, have lost complete control on what how things will continue to develop?
"decent wages, education and health care for every American is "not just an opportunity, but a right."--Wes Clark
Catherine, I'd be very surprised if Syria and Iran were NOT behind the Hisballah actions. They generally control them, and this is all part of a synchronized push to enlarge Iran's influernce in the region, taking advantage of America's failing effort in Iraq, and Israel's moment of weakness.
Iran has as much "leverage" (to create chaos)as we do (if not more) ...which is why I guess instead of our President using "heated" rethoric, he would have been better off approaching Iran with a tad more respect and diplomatic "good will" initially (in reference to the Nuclear issue and Iran's Iraq involvement). Too bad that didn't happen, based on the results we are now watching in the broader Middle East!
"decent wages, education and health care for every American is "not just an opportunity, but a right."--Wes Clark
Or read anything about the rest of the world, he may have figured out that rhetoric for domestic consumption of the wingnuts and rapture nuts, has ramifications far beyond our borders.
Ending cowboy diplomacy is a goal that should extend beyond the current administration.
"One of the embarrassing problems for the early nineteenth-century champions of the Christian faith was that not one of the first six Presidents of the United States was an orthodox Christian."--The Encyclopedia Britannica
Will you be endorsing or campaigning for any of the Democratic candidates for Secretary of State this year? As you know with the most recently exposed insecurities rampant in our elections systems, we'll need major reforms and reassessments of all the systems and roles currently assigned to lord over our elections.
CA State Sen. Debra Bowen is our best shot to keep California's 55 electoral as blue as the sea! But there are many other important SOS races we will need to win in order to guarantee some sort of election protection for the next Presidential race.
And again, thank you wholeheartedly Sir for your service and your continued leadership through some of Democracy's dark days.
General Clark, with the recent escalation of civilian deaths in Iraq, has your opinion changed regarding the presence of the US military there? The UK edition of the TIMES ON LINE reports that Baghdad is collapsing and fleeing Iraqis have created "the biggest flow of new refugees in the world."
Please tell me again what it is we are supposed to be accomplishing there.
But I'll take this opportunity to congratulate you and Gert on your 40th Anniversary, belatedly!
My husband and I are celebrating our 22nd in September, so I'm guessing that's this makes you and Gert and my husband and I just young whipper snapper newlyweds! Right?
"decent wages, education and health care for every American is "not just an opportunity, but a right."--Wes Clark
My friends here in Pennsylvania's constant comment is: we want General Clark to "channel" Ike more! :)
Question 1.
"There are a number of things wrong with Washington. One of them is that everyone is too far from home." --Dwight D. Eisenhower"
As a person who literally travels relentlessly across America to support & promote promising legislative candidates for Congress, what do you think we can we do to promote more of a "flat" culture in Washington & at the overall federal level that will help this new bumper crop of progressive candidates that WE ARE GOING TO ELECT IN NOVEMBER stay grounded working for their constituencies at home instead of becoming so myopically involved in the Beltway?
& question two:
Help us understand how we can best nationalize these critical midterms?
"If a problem cannot be solved, enlarge it." --Dwight D. Eisenhower
& if you can, please come out for Fighting Dem Patrick Murphy in PA!
THANK YOU for everything you do.
Wes Clark: American Eagle
Gen Clark,
No Date Certain for withdrawal. OK. How about a timeline for political progress and real intricate benchmarks for withdrawal?
It seems to me that the insurgents' goal is to get us to leave so that we are not on their land. I would not like to see foreign troops speaking a foreign language walking my streets with guns every day - even if they said they were there to protect us from suicide bombers.
Why not let them know we do not plan on staying forever? That way they will be less incline to slow us down on our benchmarks for withdrawal.
Israel's human rights behavior is an abomination reminiscent of South Africa in the 1970's. And the mindless and one-sided support of Israel by our government is a major cause of U.S. problems with Muslim people all over the world, especially in the Middle East. At the very least, the United States should put a stop to the $500-600 per capita per year that is being provided to Israel in the form of foreign and military aid (not to mention the war we're fighting in Iraq, largely for their benefit). What do you think??
Hope that Wes has learned to recognize hypothetical questions which should be left alone.
:)
"One of the embarrassing problems for the early nineteenth-century champions of the Christian faith was that not one of the first six Presidents of the United States was an orthodox Christian."--The Encyclopedia Britannica
Gen Clark,
I believe reducing Iraqi unemployment would be a good benchmark for progress because an Iraqi with a job does not have time or desire to attack us. Are American Companies/Troops/Contractors taking the jobs that Iraqi's desperately need to make progress?
Hello, GeneralWes,
Thank you for coming on to live blog.
General Wes, I'm seeing lots and lots more people who are feeling pretty hopeless.
Hopeless about our government, but more, hopeless about our country being able. Being able and all the wonderful things that we've known our country to be, even in its worst days.
Comment, if you will. I know you must have dealt with this many times with men in war.
Clearsky
General Clark:
How do we fix the problems with single parent health care? Is this an issue that needs to be solved on the state or federal level? How does a political leader defeat the insurance lobbyists to make this happen?
Madtowntalk,
Here's an excerpt from Clark's 2004 campaign outlining his health care plan structured on "3 pillars", which essentially calls for guaranteed health care for every child to young adulthood (age 22), access to coverage for every American, especially those with low-income. Clark recently mentioned that it should be structured around a single-pay system, similar to what exists in the military.
From:
"...The second pillar of the Clark health plan is to guarantee universal coverage for children and universal access to health insurance for all Americans.
As we improve our health system and make it more affordable, Americans must do their part by making a compact with one another and commit to guaranteeing that every American child through age 22 has health insurance - the age that most young people graduate college. Today, I am proposing a new, progressive tax credit that would begin where public program eligibility ends, and extend up to 500 percent of the poverty limit, which is about $90,000 for a family of four. Families could use this assistance for either Medicaid or State Children's Health Insurance Program; employer coverage; or, if they do not have access to an employer-provided health benefit, they would have access to the same plan that members of Congress have today. Whether or not a family has health care today, all eligible families would have access to a tax credit.
We provide the opportunity and the affordability, but then we demand responsibility in return. In return for this assistance, it would become the responsibility - indeed the requirement -- of young adults and parents to enroll their children in a responsible health insurance plan.
Building on my commitment to guarantee insurance coverage to every child in this great nation, my plan would also ensure that every American has access to coverage. My plan would allow Americans without access to job-based coverage to purchase health insurance through the same system that covers Members of Congress. The government would be responsible for ensuring that that the premiums paid by individuals are priced fairly and available to all. I believe this policy would especially help older adults who have diminished access to job-based coverage and increasing need for services.
Finally, the third pillar of the Clark health plan is to provide extra assistance to some of our nation's most vulnerable populations. In addition to ensuring coverage for children and access for all Americans, my plan targets financial assistance to several groups of people facing specific challenges in buying and paying for health care.
It starts with reduced premiums for low-income adults. This is a high-risk group. Under my plan, the Federal government would be required to fully fund state-based programs to extend full coverage to lower-income adults. And anyone who doesn't have access to health insurance through their employer could buy into the same health plan offered to members of Congress.
Next, I am also proposing a tax credit for workers in between jobs - because Americans shouldn't lose their coverage just because they're between jobs. In addition to the general assistance for low-income families, a 70 percent tax credit would be available to fund COBRA or Congressional coverage for workers who have temporarily been laid off.
Next, it expands health options for reservists and their families. The people suffering the worst today through the war in Iraq are those families who had to say goodbye to one another - unexpectedly - for a year or even longer. Yet, they are not covered by the same kind of health care as active duty military personnel, so in many areas of the country, only 30 or 40 percent of all doctors will take patients from the Reserves. My plan would provide the same additional kind of assistance that my plan provides for unemployed workers. .."
Wes -
Do you have any plans to endorse
any candidates for local, county,
state, or federal office in the
state of New Hampshire?
If so - when might you possibly
decide to do so?
Gen Clark,
Our troops in Iraq are taking out mines that would not be there is we were not. Our troops are walking the streets and being shot at by bullets that would not fly if we were not there. Our troops are tracking down and raiding houses of people who shot at us who would not have shot at us if we were not there.
What is the mission of our troops in Iraq? Aside from securing Baghdad and the political process why are so many of our troops being put on what are ultimately pointless missions?
Why aren't Democrats more forceful on poverty? The way to neutralize the GOP's courtship of spiritual people is to talk about an issue that is central to nearly all forms of religion: the injustice of poverty.
In January of this year,”The Los Angeles Times” ran an article by Mark Mazzetti. He quotes General McCaffrey:
"The most precious thing in the military is our talent and not our technology," said retired Army Gen. Barry R. McCaffrey, who traveled to Iraq and Afghanistan last year to assess the state of the U.S. military missions in the countries. "What we don't want to do is come out of [these wars] and lose what we lost after Vietnam."
The exodus "will be among officers whose families say, 'Look, there are 300 million people in this country; let somebody else take their turn,' " McCaffrey said.
The major thrust of Mazzetti piece is about the acceleration of promotions, but I won’t bother you about that. My question is:
You have spoken about the loss of talented officers if the war dragged on. Is that happening today? And if so, how does that effect our options in Iraq?
Note: This question is in honor of richsez who is out doing a job that Americans will do. (edited for scripting)
Wes,
I wanted to publicly thank you for all your early support in my campaign for Kentucky's second congressional seat. Your visit to Kentucky and your hosting of a fundraiser in New York are a big part of my campaign's recent success. The DCCC has targeted this race on it's second round of Red-to-Blue. This is huge news for the campaign and for the working men and women of our district. Thank you so much for your assistance General Clark. We hope to see you soon.
Your brother in arms,
Colonel Mike Weaver (KY-2)
Throw some coin Mike's way via WesPAC's ActBlue page: http://actblue.com/page/wespac
...and I want to be at your inauguration the following January! :)
What would you do for a Klondike Bar?
Sybil Liberty, you speak for many! We're focused on 06, without a doubt. But in our peripheral vision...
Give the General a congress he can work with... maybe, just maybe he'll run!
What would you do for a Klondike Bar?
When do you think you might make it up here to the Great Northwest to help Darcy Burner in WA-08? ;)
Hi General Clark,
So glad to have you visit us in real time! Thank-you!
There was an article in the NY Times last week entitled, "Hate Groups Are Infiltrating the Military, Group Asserts."
Among other things, it referenced this quote from the National Alliance magazine:
"Light infantry is your branch of choice because the coming race war and the ethnic cleansing to follow will be very much an infantryman's war," he wrote. "It will be
house-to-house, neighborhood-by-neighborhood until your town or city is cleared and the alien races are driven into the countryside where they can be hunted down and 'cleansed.' "
He concluded: "As a professional soldier, my goal is to fill the ranks of the United States Army with skinheads. As street brawlers, you will be useless in the coming race war. As trained infantrymen, you will join the ranks of the Aryan warrior brotherhood."
It's hard to believe that there are Americans among us with such ideas.
Have you seen or heard anything to indicate the extent of this problem in the Army?
carol4clark
General Wes Clark * * * * 4 Stars Over Texas
Thank You, General Clark for joining us today and thanks for all you have done & continue to do for our wonderful country and world.
You make a lot of sense no matter the topic you are discussing. You see things at all angles and you speak for the better of our country and world. It's not about you and the wealthy 1%. Many Americans can relate to you if they only get a chance to see you and hear you.
Hopefully, whatever Democrats are in charge of getting other Dems to speak on issues (on TV and other venues) they choose you to address domestic issues too on the big networks. I want Americans to realize your knowledge, intelligence, and common sense even with Domestic issues. Health care and global warming are two that iimmediately come to mind.
Please know that you have my strong support. Much thanks to You, Gert, and your Family for all your sacrifices.
Gratefully,
Ann
General Clark, as a Virginia Clark Democrat and volunteer for Jim Webb's Senate campaign, what are your thoughts on the most effective way to reach and bring in the state's military and veteran support? Each of you represents a powerful voice on the opposition to the Iraq War and the mismanagement by this administration, and we'd like to effectively reach those serving or retired who respect the service of both of you and share your feelings.
I look forward to the rest of the great questions posted here, and to your thoughtful comments. Thank you for what you do.
In the military we understand the concept of accountability. If you aren't up to the job, you get "relieved" - fired. Democrats have to hammer home the Republicans failures on national security and foreign policy. Then the American people will fire them. But too often, Dems excuse the Republican failures. I hear phrases like, "China's responsiblity on North Korea..." or, "It's up to the Iraqis"
Listen, the US is the preeminent power in the world. When you're president of the United States, there's almost nothing you can't affect in some way, more that you can shape, and somethings you can control. Don't let Bush and Co. off the hook! It's not being disrespectful - it's being true to the American way of Democracy! Especially, when the country is at war!
"after watching this for five and a half years, i believe that there is much to be afraid of if the Administration persists in its approach."
Could you please be more specific? And tell us what-- other than working for '06 candidates as many of us are already doing--we can do to counteract the campaign of fear that most of us are aware is being waged against Americans? Some of us are far more angry than fearful--how do we put that anger to good use?
Good Afternoon General,
I live in Texas in the second most Republican county in the state. I am discouraged by the majority of voters who vote on hot button issues, against their own economic interests.
The local party seems to concentrate on 'holding onto what they have', rather than trying to increase the Democratic vote.
What would be the most effective thing to do to change the voters mindset?
General Clark,
Does your contract with Fox preclude you from appearing on other networks? We'd really like to see you on TV more often.
Do you have any plans to write another book? Perhaps a book about how to be a great leader.
In your travels this year, what have you learned are the top 5 frustrations of people?
Is there a noticeable difference in questions to you based on age, gender, prior military service, etc.? (for example, are older people more cynical about foreign affairs, or do women express more money worries?)
Hello General:
It's wonderful to "see" you on-line again!
My questions are:
How can the Democrats shake the national perception that they are weak on national security issues?
How can the Democrats present a more unified front, without losing respect for diversity and other opinions?
Also, what is the best strategy for reaching out to red-state, traditionally religious or swing voters?
Thanks so much.
Sir,
1. I think we have to confront the media on a daily basis .
They adopt the Orwellian language of the White House, such as using "detainee" for "prisoner", and saying that Karl Rove was "cleared", not "unindicted conspirator".
Everyone should call in and e-mail these anchors, it does get their attention, over time.
2. Valerie Plame and Joe Wilson need to be supported and praised for bringing the dialogue back to what it means to out a spy working against nuclear proliferation. An act of treason should be called just that.
3. I second the questions above on Lebanon.
Thank you for everything.
General Clark, in your opinion has the treat of Iraqi war veterans improved the last few months, especially those with PTSD? AND what can be done to contain the sprialing health care costs and help the USA get decent universal health care FOR ALL?
Dear General Clark,
As much as I wish you had made a better showing in the last election cycle, I am glad you are still putting up the good fight.
BUT why appear on Fox? I can't believe you go there. Is there no other news outfit you can contract with?
They really are the worst.
Keep up the good fight. If Gore wins and if there is a God he will, Gore would be wise to choose you to be the Secretary of Defense.
As I find the other Corporate media channel just as offensive, if not more so, considering that they lead most viewers to think that they are objective when they are not.
At least, when one turns to Fox, one knows what one is getting.
I actually like Wes on Fox. Somebody's got to do it to counter the propaganda that goes on there...otherwise, the viewers would never hear an opposing view from a strong and "ready to rumble" Democrat who is articulate, calm and relaxed while he speaks the truth!
"decent wages, education and health care for every American is "not just an opportunity, but a right."--Wes Clark
Fox is less disengenous about the news they present. BUT, at the same time I would like to see the General broaden his horizons, appear on more venues, grace more t.v. screens.
Grace, Wes, grace.
What would you do for a Klondike Bar?
I'm sure you speak for everyone here in wishing they could see General Wes on tv in more places, Sybil.
But, I'm sure you also know that we get to see him on tv much, much more than any of the supporters of the other "probable" 08 Presidential Ecandidates get to see their favorite.
Wen and if General Wes announced as a Candidate for 08, that will stop, of course. That was the final reason given by CNN. (Somewhere online there's a webpage about that in which General Wes says that he didn't "play" CNN as a freebie, so to speak, which he knew all along he'd be running, and General Wes denies that completely and saiys he was still deciding and Gert wasn't ready for him to run, wasn't for it, until shortly before he announced.
The thing is, I don't think it helps at all for us to complain about Fox. Or indicate that's the only place he can get on, tv or any of it. He's not a Senator, chair of a Senate or House Committee, not interested in working in any of those offices,so unlikely that more than one network will have him on.
So, it's an honor that we have him on so freqauently. An amazing thing.
There are some other people who are GUESTS on Fox that I like to see and hear. I agree tho, that it's hard to explain it to others. I usually let it be known that General Wes thinks that there whould be a Democratic leader on Fox regularly.
And that the Fox executives and owner themselves, want and need to know what General Wes' valuable opinion is.
Anyway, I want him on tv, now. Do you hear me NOW! NOW! NOW! Wherever on tv. But NOW! Always.
Clearsky
Yes Clearsky, more venues because there are many liberal and moderate Dems who would not be caught dead watching FOX.
Clearly many of them still don't know enough about WKC.
A broader audience General. Yes, please.
What would you do for a Klondike Bar?
I guess I'm not saying it clearly. Tho I was trying to sortuv hit it mideway --- not TOO clearly.
The main thing I was saying Sybil is that General Wes and just about ANYBODY, and surely any politician, jumps at the chance to be on a big TV network, ANY big TV network, any time.
When she went out to eat with us, all kinds of people either come over to speak to us, or try to catch our eye to get invited over and once at our table, they'd sortuv fluff their hair etc. and hint, and some would downright ask er, right there in a social setting like that. And these were community leaders, a lot of them. She's laugh about our thinking it amazing later as she said it wasn't her, that everyone in tv knows that the power of that is incredible. With everyone.
My neice used to be a tv anchor and oh, my lord, all she had to do was call up ANYBODY anytime and they'd jump at the chance, change their schedules, whatever, and that included the Mayor, the Governor, natioal politicos coming through town, whoever...and she was oln a TV station that only covered the south part of one state.
Clearsky
I'm only saying that I would like to see Wes reach more factions here in the U.S.
btw, I don't think he would have any problem getting a spot in Europe, do you?
What would you do for a Klondike Bar?
What are the main points you think all Democratic candidates need to highlight regarding our economy and the lives of typical Americans? How do we get the focus on focusing on WITT (we're in this together) as opposed to YOYO (you're on your own), which is the policy we have under the republicans?
Sadly, General Clark, although I generally agree with you, I must disagree on the import of the Hezbollah movement and the roles of Iran and Syria.
The larger problem here is that we Americans have been misreading the Middle East for the past 30 years, at least. The history of the past 30 years in the Middle East -- from the perspective of those in power there, and those who seek power there -- is the history of the Shi'a Ascendency.
Hezbollah is a largely Shi'a group, supported by Iran, which is the only Shi'a run nation in the Middle East. While the Shi'a are only perhaps 10% of the worldwide Muslim population, they are roughly 50% of the Middle East population. What's more, they are a substantial minority and often a majority in the most oil-rich areas of that region: Bahrain (80% majority, treated as a minority by the Sunni government), eastern Saudi Arabia, southern Iraq, and Iran.
Until the United States comes to grips with this internal conflict in Islam -- the Wahhabist/Salafist Sunni do not even consider the Shi'a to be Muslims -- and look for ways to work through this problem AS IT IS SEEN BY THOSE WHO LIVE THERE, we have no chance of creating a workable policy in the Middle East.
Cris Brown
"Every budget is a moral document." (GOD'S POLITICS, Jim Wallis)
Do you have any comments on the Hamden(sp?) v Rumsfeld ruling by the Supreme Court? I've been trying to follow the Armed Services Committees hearings. Your neighbor Vic did an outstanding job! ;)
"Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words."
I hit the big 50 next month, and all of a sudden that doesn't feel so old. But as I watched The Vietnam Years roll by, I realized something. My dad was in The SeaBees in Okenewa during WWII. I grew up watching Walter Cronkitte, and thinking "That was so long ago." Now it doesn't seem that long ago. And the thought accord to me, "That's the way these kids must be looking at The Nam Years." Sadly the weapons are much dangerous, and we have managed to anger the fastest growing religon on the planet.
General Clark:
Thank you so much for what you are continuing to do for this country. You are to be commended for your "FOX" appearances...at least we can see and hear you once in a while! You are a patriot to the "nth" degree.
My thought and question: This Kansas community is gearing up for the return of the "Big Red One" troops from Germany. I know the decision was made awhile back, but do you think it is a good idea at this time to continue the DOD plans and pull these troops from Europe? It would seem to me that they might be needed in that area sooner than later, and that it would not be in the best interests for the military to downsize that close to the military action and bring this group to return to Kansas.
Thanks, again for all you do.
A Kansas Clarkie
with your question, but I think Gen. Clark has said that it's a big, big, big mistake to pull troops out of Europe. Everything's already in place and it's an ideal training ground and staging area, if nothing else.
A recent author writing on "why people were registering as independents" interviewed Republicans and Democrats about the cause for this phenomenon. Of course the popular parties don't understand the fact that we want the issues discussed, not personalities assailed !
I enjoy the comments of General Clark because they are loaded with detailed strategies. If the Democrats want to win, they will drop the Karl Rove mentality, and leave Washington D.C., go home, sit down with their communities, and LISTEN to the issues, and keep their mouth shut about other politicians. Then they will use their leadership ability to formulate a clear direction ( set of goals ), and then sell their solution to the issues to the voters in their districts.
Democrats will not take control of congress until they can convince the voters that they have a better solution, and mud slinging isn't the way. General Clark can be a good role model ... and if the politicians don't want to get serious about resolving the issues, then they don't deserve to be in office.
If we focused on resolving the issues that face us, rather than being focused on a power grab, we wouldn't have the disarray we now face in this country.
my republican congressman here in suburban Atlanta seemingly can't tell me the status of the Widow's Tax, an issue General Clark articulated so well a couple of months back.
What's the status?
If it still is in effect who can tell me who was in the House-Senate conference committe that killed the approved bill to eliminate it?
If there's a Georgia congressman in this dastardly act I want to make in clear as we run up to the November elections.
From a recent article in the Seattle Times:
Survivors of deceased military personnel are awarded benefits from both the Defense Department and the Veterans Administration, but the amount of one is reduced because of the other.
Fiscal conservatives in Congress say paying the total survivor benefits, without an offset, would be too costly — $9 billion over the next decade.
On May 11, the House of Representatives defeated a Democratic amendment to stop the Defense Department from not paying the total of the two benefits to surviving spouses.
The Washington delegation was split along party lines, with all three Republicans voting against the measure, which had passed in the U.S. Senate.
Cantwell is urging lawmakers negotiating a final defense bill to include the changes.
carol4clark
General Wes Clark * * * * 4 Stars Over Texas
to General Wes for coming and visiting with us today.
It's nice to "see" all these new "faces". Please...stick around and share your thoughts with us more often. :)
You and John Edwards were my two choices, among all the Democratic candidates in 2004. The fect of the matter is that you are both very similar in outlook: you have the strength and background in foreign policy, and Edwards has the stength and background domestically. Doesn't it make sense to join forces. You two would be my "dream team."
What do you think the Party can do to reach out to younger voters this year?