THE BUSH LEGACY - THE SUNDAY COMMENTARY

History has shown many differing views concerning the legacies left by our Presidents. In many instances the historical view of a particular President differs either slightly or greatly from the general view of that President either while still in office or immediately after leaving office.

President Lincoln in his fight to preserve the Union was extremely unpopular with many in the North and of course almost all of the South. Yet in the light of history what he did as President has been proven to be right and he is generally considered by most historians as out greatest President.

President Reagan was thought by many while in office as dangerous and even somewhat aloof as President because of his administrative style of delegating responsibility. Yet as the Berlin Wall fell and the collapse of Communism followed and his economic policy which was controversial at the time proved to work and extend the prosperity of the eighties well past Reagan's terms of office, historians have ranked him in the top five of our Nations Chief Executives.

Some of the Nations more popular President's have not stood the historical test of time as their legacy has been studied in the light of history. Franklin Roosevelt for example remained a very popular President throughout his time in office yet history has shown that much of his New Deal which consisted of government solutions to solve the Great Depression actually lengthened the time of the depression and had it not been for World War II, FDR's New Deal policy would have plunged the country into deeper financial trouble.

How then will history judge President Bush and what type of legacy will he leave behind. In many respects it is still early to speculate on his legacy not so much because he still remains in office but some of what he leaves behind has yet to be finished. The situation in Iraq is one example of unfinished work that history will make judgement on when the task is fully accomplished.

Iraq became an extreme thorn in the flesh for President Bush because of several missteps made by his administration in judging the aftermath of the initial invasion. But a great deal of the trouble that Iraq caused for Bush came from the well orchestrated campaign by Democrats and the media in demonizing Iraq and Bush though Iraq.

As the situation improved dramatically the left continued to paint Iraq as a failure until the success was so obvious they would begin looking like fools to claim otherwise. The left then used Iraq as a campaign issue to try and show an inept President who started an unjustified war. As history examines Iraq once the final chapter is completed, President Bush will be vindicated in that the foray into Iraq is proving to leave behind a better Nation whose place in the world is stronger because of the Democracy that has emerged as a result of US intervention.

On the home front President Bush is leaving a much more troublesome legacy. While running on conservative values and fiscal ideas he has governed in many respects almost polar opposite of the limited government and decreased spending ideology of the conservative movement. This has directly resulted in the demise of the Republican Party as the leading force in politics, leaving behind a weak and struggling party which he lead for eight years.

This in itself will be one of the most damaging aspects of the Bush legacy as history evaluates the his Presidency. Bush entered the White House with clear majorities in which he kept until the final two years of his Presidency. He leaves the White House with his party in a small minority looking for leadership to change the direction of a devastated party.

The Bush Domestic policy has provided a increase in the size of government and spending because of his belief that he would be able, as President to bring the Republican and Democrat parties together in a series of bipartisan initiatives in which the Democrats seized the opportunity to take advantage of Bush and force through programs that increased government then used those programs against Bush in an attempt by Democrats to look like fiscal conservatives to win elections. A strategy that worked in both 2006 and 2008.

While both parties are to blame for the current financial trouble, Bush has been painted as the major contributor which provided Democrats with the political strength to win both the Presidency and even larger majorities in Congress this year, adding to the demise of Republicans and the Bush legacy of domestic and fiscal troubles.

Over time historians will take a more objective look at the causes and affects of the Bush Domestic policy and the financial crises that ensued in these final months of his Presidency. When that objective look is taken the blame for the problems will be equally assigned and Bush will come out the better from an historical view point.

When his Presidency is fully evaluated by the more objective view of time and not through just the prism of the current political climate, Bush like many President's before him will fair better than his popularity and his critics portray him while in the final days of office. Like Harry Truman who left office as an extremely unpopular President but historically became a much stronger Chief Executive, Bush will follow a similar path.

His handling of the devastation of 9/11 and his ability to protect this Nation from another attack throughout his Presidency will be the center piece of his legacy. His unwavering commitment to end terrorism and leave behind a safer Country and world will through the hour glass of historical perspective be the strength and shining light of his legacy.

Bush will not be evaluated as one of our Nations greatest Presidents. Nor will he be evaluated as one of our worst. His ability to keep this Nation safe during some of our most dangerous times will way heavily to his favor historically. While his ideological belief that political adversaries could work together will be looked upon as somewhat naive, historically it will be seen as a noble idea which worked against him.

Like his father before him President Bush will be seen as a leader who had high ideals and was a strong Commander in Chief who protected the Nation in times of great peril. But his ideals prevented him from recognizing political reality at home and the ability of the opposition to demonize a President. As such though having noble ideas and intentions, the legacy of George W. Bush will be one of strength at war and weakness at home.

Ken Taylor

THE FIRST PRESIDENTIAL THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATION

Many accept without question the contention by the left that the Founders intended that there should be complete separation between church and state. Totally disregarding the Constitutional provision that states,"Congress shall make no law respecting and establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." Choosing rather to accept ONLY the letter from Thomas Jefferson written in 1802 to the Danbury Baptist Association in which he mentions the words ,"separation of church and state."

Ignoring the true Constitutional clause found in the First Amendment preventing the establishment of a state church and using Jefferson's words as a means of taking God from every aspect of American life and trying to claim it is Constitutional and the intent of the Founders.

Below is the first Presidential Thanksgiving Proclamation where one of our Founders in fact the Father of our country not only expresses a profound belief in God but His inclusion in affairs of state as he issues the proclamation for a day of prayer and Thanksgiving to ,"almighty God," as requested by both Houses of Congress.

So as you share Thanksgiving with your family enjoy reading the true intent of our Founders as expressed by our first President George Washington. May God bless you and yours, may he bless our Nation and I wish each of you a very Happy Thanksgiving.

Ken



By the President of the United States of America, a Proclamation.


Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor-- and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.

Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be-- That we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks--for his kind care and protection of the People of this Country previous to their becoming a Nation--for the signal and manifold mercies, and the favorable interposition's of his Providence which we experienced in the course and conclusion of the late war--for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty, which we have since enjoyed--for the peaceable and rational manner, in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national One now lately instituted--for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed; and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and in general for all the great and various favors which he hath been pleased to confer upon us.

And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech him to pardon our national and other transgressions-- to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually--to render our national government a blessing to all the people, by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed--to protect and guide all Sovereigns and Nations (especially such as have shewn kindness unto us) and to bless them with good government, peace, and concord--To promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us--and generally to grant unto all Mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as he alone knows to be best.


Given under my hand at the City of New York the third day of October in the year of our Lord 1789.



George Washington

CONGRESS AND OTHER ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES HAVE NO CLUE ABOUT HISTORY

I have suspected for quite some time that those in whom we have placed our trust and elected to office in this country really have no clue. It has been my opinion that most have never read the Constitution and those that have never comprehended or understood what they read. Additionally having a working knowledge of our history should also be at least a minimal requirement in holding public office but this to is something that elected officials have shown a lack of even basic understanding.

When one does not know or learn from history, one is destined to repeat the failures that have taken place in history. As Americans we should want to have a basic working knowledge of our history and especially how our government works. Well my suspicion about our elected officials as well as our citizens and their lack of knowledge concerning American history has unfortunately been verified to be even worse than I had suspected.

The Intercollegiate Studies Institute recently conducted a test of 2500 Americans many of which were members of Congress or held other state and local elected offices. The test consisted of 33 questions convering basic US history as well as several that covered basic knowledge of our government and economics. Of the 2500 who participated the average score was only a failing 44% among elected officials and only 49 % for average citizens.

Of course in the current political light it is not be surprising that average citizens fared better than those elected. One question that had a very dismal showing from both elected officials and average citizens concerned naming two countries that were our enemies in WWII. Only 54% identified Germany and Japan. Incorrect answers included Britain, Russia, China , Mexico and Spain.

45% incorrectly answered that the President has the power to declare war while 54 % correctly identified that power belonging to Congress. 20% of elected officials believed that the Electoral College was established to, "supervise the first television Presidential debates."

The kicker in the test dealt with the economy which also had the lowest correct answers of the 33 questions on the tests. The questions concerned a basic understanding of economic principles asking why, " free markets typically secure more economic prosperity than government's centralized planning." Only 16% of those tested correctly answered why a free market is more prosperous than a government controlled economy.

And we wonder why bailouts and government control of banks is the answer that Congress is coming up with as the key to solving the current economic down turn ? This test is one of the most telling pieces of evidence as to the ignorance of the uninformed especially when the uninformed are the very people whose knowledge of this Nation, its history and how this country works should be far more than most especially since it is they in whom the government is entrusted ! If you thought we were in trouble before, think again !

Ken Taylor

THANKSGIVING AND OUR AMERICAN HERITAGE - THE SUNDAY COMMENTARY

As I was anticipating what Thanksgiving would offer, great food, time with our families, football, Christmas decorating and reflecting on the goodness that God has bestowed, I was traveling on one of the main highways near my home. It was unusually cold for the Southeastern Coastal Area and the chill in the air actually added to the warm holiday feeling.

My thoughts were centering around Thanksgiving and out of the corner of my eye I noticed a 100 foot pole with what I believe is one of the most beautiful sights on earth waiving in the breeze. Old Glory was at full furl in the wind. As I took in this magnificent scene I began thinking about the marvelous heritage we as Americans have that no one else on earth can claim.

A heritage that at times we take for granted which has brought us freedom and liberty that have never been experienced before in human history except in this land we love, The United States of America. Freedom that began as ideals then flourished into the gathering of some of the most brilliant minds the world has ever known who met in Philadelphia in 1776 and displayed the courage to commit treason against the British Crown in placing their names on a most precious document that brought their ideals into reality and gave birth to a nation.

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

These are more than just words penned to paper but the birth of freedom and opportunity that began the heritage which allows each of us as Americans to relfect with grateful hearts for all that God has given us throughout our short and prosperous history. This heritage came at a cost through great sacrifice to insure that those freedoms expressed so many years ago which are, "endowed by our Creator," are able continue for us and future generations.

I think of those bitter days at Valley Forge when the determination of George Washington held the fledgling Continental Army together to later become victorious baptizing this new nation with the precious blood of fallen hero's. Of those terrible years from 1860-1865 when this young country and her Constitution were put through the ultimate test when brother fought brother, both believing that they were fighting for the same ideals that the Founders intended and when the test was over this Nation found a new birth of freedom that, "this government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

I think of the Dough-Boys living in the filth of the trenches of WW I hundreds of miles from home yet still fighting for the same ideals that their brothers died for in the Revolution. Of the , "Greatest Generation, " who sacrificed and defeated fascism to ring liberties bell loud and long throughout the world as Old Glory flew proclaiming that all men can be free.

The men who landed at Inchon and climbed Pork Chop Hill in, "The Forgotten War, " Korea, but who fought for liberties flag with the same determination and sacrifice as their brothers of the past. Those who sacrificed and gave of themselves in the jungles of Vietnam standing true to liberties cause. The thousands of hero's of Desert Storm, Fallujah, Baghdad and the mountains of Afghanistan who defended liberty and sacrificed for freedom.

Then I realized that this marvelous heritage that has grown through history is not just a heritage of the past but a living vibrant heritage that continues to grow and flourish each day that the Red, White and Blue flies, whether here at home, the Middle East, north or south, east or west or where ever the influence of, " We the People," and the immortal words of the Declaration penned in 1776 and the Constitution penned in 1788 are expressed by our brave men and women in uniform or by travelers on business or pleasure both at home and abroad. For you see all of us are part of this historical and living heritage that is America.

As freedom rings in this land we love, General Washington still strides atop his white horse. Abraham Lincoln continues shares both his whit and his wisdom to us all. Orville and Wilbur Wright will always be flying at Kitty Hawk, NC. Thomas Edison is inventing the light bulb. Alexander Graham Bell still asks Watson, "can you hear me?" Both making earth changing discoveries. David O Selznick forever directs Scarlett and Rhett. Sousa still waves his baton to the stirring fanfare of , "Stars and Stripes Forever."

As freedom rings in our beloved America, the battleship Arizona and her brave crew will always sail the seas. Lucy, Ricky, Barney, Andy and the Beaver forever make us laugh. John F. Kennedy eternally proclaims, "ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." Neal Armstrong continues to, "take one small step for a man and one giant leap for mankind." Ronald Reagan will always see, "the shining city on a hill, " and the World Trade Center will forever stand glistening in the sun.

Today in distant lands our best and brightest are fighting to keep this heritage of freedom and liberty alive and vibrant so that future generations can forever sing, "My country tis of thee, sweet land of liberty of thee I sing." So that future generations will always be able to reflect with pride on the liberties they are now paying for with their unselfish sacrifice.

During this time set aside on the long calendar year to give thanks for all that we have and all that we are, let us not neglect to remember the bountiful blessing each of us know as The United States of America. Giving thanks for our family, our hero's serving in distant lands and here at home. Thanksgiving for our freedoms and the living, breathing heritage that keeps us free. God bless you and yours through this holiday season and may God continue to bless The United States of America. Happy Thanksgiving.

Ken Taylor

BARACK OABAM'S ATTORNEY GENERAL PICK HOLDER, QUESTIONABLE AT BEST

Barack Obama's choice for Attorney General is already stirring quite a lot of controversy even before he makes his way to Capital Hill and the conformation hearings that will take place after January 20.

Holder was the investigator in the Justice Department who gave a favorable recommendation to Bill Clinton on the pardon on fugitive Marc Rich who fled the country while being prosecuted for tax fraud and illegal oil dealings with Iran.

Holder also faced severe Congressional drilling as the responsible party at the Justice Department in recommending clemency for members of FALN, (Fuerzas Armadas de Liberación Nacional ,English: Armed Forces of National Liberation), a terrorist group responsible for 120 bombings in The United States from 1974 - 1983. Upon Holder's council Bill Clinton granted the clemency petition.

And as the vidieo above shows during the aftermath of the now infamous Elián González affair where a six year old boy was taken by gun point from his uncle and returned to his father in Cuba, Holder's dealing with the situation was very questionable.

Holder's denial of force, certain legal presedence and the pointing of a live amo weapon in the face of a six year old child, despite being shown the evidence to the contrary in the above video added to the general feeling among most Americans that then Attorney General Janet Reno, Holder and others in the government involved in the case looked like incompitant fools in the way the case was handled.

Holder is also known to have very strong anti Second Amendment views and his dealings in cases involving Second Amendment issues have shown a history of siding against gun owners.

This is the highly questionable history of the man who Barack Obama wants as Attorney General. Does the President Elect have no concern over the history of the people he is appointing because he knows that with an overwhelming Democrat majority in the Senate, as President, he will have a virtual free ticket with his appointees ?

So much for ,"change," and an administration that seeks a bipartisan approach. With an Attorney General like Holder the very far left view will be the direction given in legal matters from the Justice Department.

Ken Taylor

THE LIBERAL LIE CARTOON GALLERY AND YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up

"Change," is coming to Washington and Barack Obama is bringing it. It seems to me that we have seen this type of change before. It was called the Bolshevik Revolution .

YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up - DES MOINES, IOWA — A hand model, magician and actor blames a Martha Stewart-branded lounge chair for snipping off a bit of his livelihood. In a lawsuit filed Monday against Kmart Corp. and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Patrick Albanese said he was moving the Martha Stewart Everyday lounge chair on a deck in June when the front tubular legs collapsed, crushing his right index finger between one of the chair legs and a tubular bar.

The lawsuit said the fingertip fell beneath the deck but was later retrieved by a relative. Albanese's attorney, Guy Cook, said the finger tip was reattached by a surgeon. Albanese, of the Des Moines suburb of Clive, is seeking compensation for past and future medical expenses, physical and mental pain and suffering, permanent partial disfigurement and loss of earning capacity.

Abbra Cadabbra, watch Martha make your finger disappear. Of course that is like holding the knife company accountable if you cut your finger while pealing potatoes ! - YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up

It takes a lot of, "experience," to quit the Senate. They will have to dust his seat off in the Senate Chambers before his replacement shows up !



YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up - PADUCAH, Ky. — Chad Toy's escape from jail wasn't what shocked his jailers; it was his plea to be let back in. "When I rang the bell at the jail and told them who I was, they were surprised," Toy told The Paducah (Ky.) Sun newspaper. "I guess they haven't seen that before." Toy, 21, was in the McCracken County Regional Jail in western Kentucky awaiting trial on charges stemming from a July home invasion. He's also serving a four-year sentence for theft.

Officials said he escaped early Monday while on a cleanup detail in the lobby. He bolted after a guard unlocked the front doors to clean trash from a breezeway. But Toy returned that afternoon, wet and covered with grime. He told authorities his sister had persuaded him to surrender because his family feared for his safety. Jailer Bill Adams said he doubts Toy's account. He thinks the escapee spent his brief liberty hiding beside the Tennessee River.

Adams said it was the first time in his 14 years as a deputy and jailer that he's seen an escaped convict willingly return. Toy told the newspaper, "It was a spur of the moment decision. I saw an open door and just ran through it." He added, "I am sorry about what I did. If I had it to do over again, I would have never run out the door."

I guess this is one jail bird who just could not spread his wings ! Three hots and a cot sounded better than cold nights on the Tennessee River - YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up





$75 dollar per hour per worker, $1600.00 per car and the Unions say they are not going to give anymore concessions. Let GM go bankrupt and they'll make concessions. The bankruptcy Judge will see to that!



YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up - WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — A travel guide's list of the best places in the world to be entombed includes a cemetery for animals in a New York City suburb. "Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2009" includes the Hartsdale Pet Cemetery with the Taj Mahal and the Great Pyramids among the 10 "best places of rest." A spokesman for Hartsdale says it's "delighted to be in such esteemed company."

The guide says the headstones at the pet cemetery are fascinating to read. One says, "Sport: Born a dog, died a gentleman." There are 70,000 creatures and several bereaved humans in the 112-year-old pet cemetery, which is 20 miles north of New York City. A spokeswoman for the publisher says the book tries to include "a variety of travel experiences."

I wonder is Stephen King knows about this Pet Cemetery ? - YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up




"They're baaackkk ! " Hillary for Secretary of State, Bill putting his nose in everything, 31 of 47 appointed staffers former Clintonites, Clintonites at the Justice Department and who knows when the list will stop. Ladies and Gentleman ...........CLINTON III !!!!!


Ken Taylor

BARACK OBAMA BECOMING CLINTON III

His campaign mantra was ,"change." He claimed for 20 months that he was going to shake up the Washington establishment and it would no longer be business as usual. He talked about removing the influence of Washington insiders and becoming the ultimate Washington outsider with his message of ,"hope and change."

Yet first candidate and now President Elect Barack Obama has shown that he favors the Washington insiders and has no intentions of bringing ,"change." First he selects the ultimate Washington insider to be his Vice President and now as he works on his transition into the White House making appointments and hiring staff, Obama is creating the third Clinton Administration.

Throughout the campaign Obama attacked John McCain being tied to President Bush and that if elected a McCain Administration would be nothing more that a third, "Bush term." So Obama is elected and what does he do ? He begins creating a third Clinton Administration. First he selects former Clinton Chief of Staff John Podesta as head of his transition team.

Another Clinton carry over is Obama's choice for Chief of Staff, Rahm Emanuel who was a Senior Advisor to Bill Clinton and a leading strategist for the failed Universal Health Care initiative early in the Clinton Administration. Last Friday came the next Clinton member as a possible appointment to the Obama Administration, Hillary Rodham Clinton the top candidate for Secretary of State.

Breaking news hit the airways yesterday concerning Obama chosen nominee for Attorney General. Former deputy Attorney General during the Clinton years Eric Holder. Already a part of the Obama campaign as co-chief of his Vice Presidential selection team, Holder served as deputy AG under Janet Reno and was involved with the decision to seek a pardon for then fugitive financier Marc Rich who fled the country while being prosecuted for tax fraud and illegal oil deals with Iran. The most controversial of the more than 200 pardons at the end of Clinton's Administration.

The list of former Clintonites at the Justice Department does not end with the AG. In addition to Holder, Obama is looking at appointing Elena Kagan former Clinton White House Council as Deputy AG. Also former Janet Reno Chief of Staff David Ogden currently heading Obama’s Justice Department transition team will be another Justice Department appointee. It is quickly becoming the reincarnation of the Janet Reno Justice Department.

Adding to the mix is Ron Klain who has been appointed as Vice Presidential Chief of Staff. Klain served in the same position during the Clinton years as Chief of Staff for Al Gore. A full 31 of the 47 transition and White House staff appointees or two thirds of the team Obama is taking with him to Washington are former Clinton aides and officials who served in top and lower staff levels under the former President.

This is the , "change," that Obama promised throughout his campaign ? Hiring a group of the ultimate Washington insiders who also have ties and loyalties to the Clinton Administration and the former President. These are the same advisers and staff that created the debacle during the first two Clinton years that resulted in the GOP becoming the majority in Congress after a forty year drought of Republican legislative leadership.

Come to think of it with advise like that and the obvious liberal agenda of Obama along with Pelosi and Reid on Capital Hill, this could be the making of the ousting of the Democrats in 2010. So that being the possible case then I say have at Barack, bring back the Clintonites. But to the GOP this warning, be prepared for 2010 with a new strategy that brings back true conservatism and candidates who will govern as conservatives or else the possible Majority status will be short lived and 2012 could be a disaster comparable to 2008.

Ken Taylor

BARACK OBAMA WON BUT THE COUNTRY STILL MOSTLY RED

Barack Obama may be the President Elect of The United States but as seen in the map above the country is still decidedly very red. Red of course are those areas where the majority voted Republican and as such that particular county went red.

In fact as the numbers have been analyzed if it were not for one group of voters this election most likely would have gone the other way. Many pundits thought the Independent vote would be the deciding factor, but that was not the case as both Obama and McCain received 48% . Others thought that the women's vote would be the decider in favor of Obama but he only garnered 6 % more than McCain which is actually a little below average for a Democrat candidate.

The real deciding factor in this election was the below thirty age bracket. This year that age group comprised 18 % of the vote well above the average of past election years and Barack Obama received more than 60% of that vote which gave him the numbers to beat McCain in many of the usually red swing states like Ohio, Virginia and North Carolina.

Polling that is being released today by Zogby shows that although the under thirty age group was the catalyst that put Obama over the top on November fourth, they were largely a very uninformed group of voters. Almost 60% could not identify which party was in control of the Congress with 48% of that 60% saying it was the Republicans because Bush was a Republican.

Nearly 60% could not state one issue that Obama had on his agenda but quickly cited only ,"change," Obama being young, or they liked how he looked as the reason they were voting for Obama. Many also cited being a part of history in electing the first African -American President.

The results shows that the Obama get out the youth vote campaign was very successful and it was the group whose vote elected him to The White House. But the map above in showing that the majority of America is still red in its political make up should leave a very telling sign for the President Elect and how he governs. A centrist Executive Branch will be more in matching the make up of the country.

But will that happen ? With Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid having greater majorities in both the House and the Senate and their well known very liberal agenda and the equally as liberal campaign agenda of Barack Obama, governing from the middle may be the last thing that an Obama administration will do in the first months and even years of his Presidency.

Ken Taylor

BARACK OBAMA - SHOULD WE WANT HIM TO SUCCEED ? - THE SUNDAY COMMENTARY

Since the election was decided almost two weeks ago, there have been commentaries and pundits many who are conservatives who have stated that now that Barack Obama has been elected President, we should wish him well and hope that he succeeds. I have a problem with this type of a blanket wish for success with someone in whom I have no agreement with concerning policy and whose political philosophy, I believe, is not only dangerous for our country but will take us down a path that was never intended by those who Founded this Nation.

Some will look upon this as the rantings of a poor loser. That I will quickly correct. My Presidential candidate has lost the election before. I supported Gerald Ford in 1976, George H. W. Bush in 1992 and Bob Dole in 1996 so I have experienced loss in the political realm before. I am not a sore loser. But just because the opposing candidate has won the Presidency it does NOT mean that I should set aside my beliefs and principles to support someone in whom I do not believe in.

As an American I support the office of the President and respect the position even when I disagree with the office holder because he still is the leader of this Nation and the Commander in Chief of the greatest military in the world. But from a stand point of principle, core beliefs and supporting a policy that I have almost no agreements with is asking anyone to disregard personal and political philosophy just to wish success for someone who is polar opposite of what I believe and stand for.

It is possible to respect the office and not support the office holder. I can respect the fact that he won a successful campaign and the Presidency, but wishing Barack Obama success compromises those principles and ideology that I have believed in and fought for my entire adult life. I cannot wish success or even give the benefit of the doubt, what little there is, to someone who throughout his campaign of , " hope and change, " talked about change that I believe is destructive for our country and provides no hope in solving our problems especially those that have been created by government.

Not supporting him being successful as President is not a result of bitterness or anger but simply because my principles and beliefs cannot allow me to support policy that will take this country down a dangerous path through applying principles of socialism to a government that Constitutionally is a free Republic. I have disagreed with President Bush when he instituted policy and signed legislation that followed to an extent this dangerous path. I do not support the bailout programs or any of the entitlements and excess spending that were started while Bush has been President.

So just because Obama has been elected should I compromise my beliefs and principles just to support him because he will be President and wish him success ? Absolutely not. If Obama does something as President that I agree with I will support him but when he does not I cannot and will not blanketly give him my support because he is President. I hope and pray the he will continue to protect this Nation which is his Constitutional responsibility but supporting him just ,"because," is wrong and also contrary to my duty as a citizen.

The Constitution begins with, "We the people." Within the wording of this most precious of American documents are found freedoms that call on me as a citizen to speak out against a government or a leader in whom I disagree and the freedom to descent when my government is not following what I believe to be the right and Constitutional path.

Most in this country misunderstand what the Framers meant when they included freedom of speech as one of our first freedoms. Freedom of speech is NOT placing a crucifix in a bottle of urine and calling it art. The Founders had just fought a war to become independent from a Monarchy that punished opposition and either imprisoned or harassed anyone who spoke out against the Crown and the abuses that were forced upon the Colonies and the people.

Freedom of speech as the Founders saw it is the free and liberating ability to speak out against government and to openly disagree with its leaders without fear of reprisal or punishment. This does not provide a blanket immunity for violence in that opposition claiming free speech rights of descent but responsible and sensible and lawful opposition to that which we as citizens see as wrong and not taking our country in the right direction.

Therefore because of my beliefs and principles it is my duty as an American and one in whom the Constitution decrees as giving government the right to exist, opposing the person who sits in the Oval Office is not only right but expected of me when I disagree with him Support him when I believe he is right and oppose him when I believe he is wrong. It is my obligation as an American to hold the President accountable to what I believe and to Constitutional principles that are the foundation of this Nation.

Blanketly supporting ANY President neglects our responsibility as citizens and compromises our core beliefs when that President talks or governs in disagreement with those beliefs and principles. It is up to us as citizens to hold him accountable, and if opposing his policy is part of that accountability then we must do it. Even before he takes office based on what he campaigned on and the policy he presented in that campaign as his agenda when taking office.

Some still say, "he hasn't even taken office so give him a chance." Why should I, "give him a chance," when in doing so I compromise the very principles and beliefs that I have lived by and stood for my entire adult life ? Why should I, just to, "give him a chance," neglect what I believe is my responsibility Constitutionally to do as an American and oppose that which I believe is contrary to the direction this country was and still is intended to go ?

Barack Obama in his beliefs steps into the Presidency opposing that in which I believe and will use his Constitutional authority to try and take this country down the path that he campaigned on. He will not stop this agenda just because it disagrees with me as a citizen. He will not blanketly change his agenda to support my beliefs as a citizen. Remember even as President with all of the power and the authority he is still a citizen of the country and as such we have the same rights as he in standing up for what we believe and the principles we believe are right.

His beliefs do not support me and mine do not support him. Both of us have a Constitutional responsibility as citizens to express those beliefs. The difference is that he has Constitutional authority to make those beliefs legislative initiatives and law. As a citizen I have and equal responsibility to oppose those beliefs and his agenda to prevent it from becoming law. That is my duty and a sacred Constitutional honor that we have only in this great and free Nation. An obligation and honor that I will continue and fight for !

Ken Taylor

BAILOUT MANIA - WILL IT EVER END !

First it was the mortgage bailout that now is being used to buy shares in failing banks rather than purchasing high risk failed mortgages, which is how the package was promoted to the American people. Either way a bad idea !

Now after a 25 billion dollar loan from taxpayer dollars that has already been issued, the big three automakers, GM, Chrysler and Ford at the insistance of President Elect Barack Obama and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi are possibly getting another 50 billion in bailout money.

Claiming that GM will go bankrupt after the first of the year and using the health care benefits for retired employees as a reason for the ,"need," GM is at the top of the list for the bailout.

What Washington and Detroit is NOT telling us is that after December 31, 2008 GM will no longer pay for health care benefits for retired employees regardless of whether they recieve the bailout money or not.

A retired GM employee has informed me that more than a month ago he recieved notification from GM that as of January 1, 2009 his retirement package would no longer include any health care benefits. He is now looking for health care that he can afford on his pension money.

Additionally if GM declares bankruptcy the company will NOT close. Money will come from the private sector to keep the company running while they reorganize and possibly get new management to clean up some of the mess that is causing the insolvancy.

Of course the massive expenditure required by the Unions is also causing problems for GM. An average of $1500 dollars per vehicle made by GM goes to paying costs that Union involvment has brought upon GM.

In addition to the 50 billion dollar bailout for GM, Congress is also looking at another 139 billion in loans for struggling General Electric whose failed management has destroyed the company.

Are we the people through our government in the business now of rewarding failure with taxpayer money ? This has to stop. It is not always bad for a company to bankrupt because under bankruptcy bad management is replaced, new ideas are instituted and companies are propped up by private sector money and NOT taxpayer money. This is part of a free market economy, an economy that we are quickly drifting away from in favor of government control and partial ownership ff private companies and banks also by the government.

The free market works ONLY if it is allowed to by preventing government involvment. The free market even works when a company is struggling WITHOUT government intervention. The feds and the people cannot afford continual bailouts. The money comes from somewhere and that somewhere is from the pockets of we the people!

Ken Taylor

THE LIBERAL LIE CARTOON GALLERY AND YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up

Sarah Palin the Timex Watch of politics. She takes a lickin' and keeps on tickin'. That my friends is one tough lady! 2012 ? We will see !


YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up - SARGENT, Ga. — Would-be cleaners take note: A blowtorch is not a good substitute for a broom. Coweta County authorities say Galen Winchell set fire to his west Georgia home Wednesday as he cleaned cobwebs from exterior eaves with a blowtorch. Winchell noticed the blaze when he saw smoke pouring from the attic.

Coweta Fire Investigator James Gantt says the fire was contained to one part of the house, but the entire home had smoke and water damage. No one was hurt. No phone number was listed for Winchell. If ever there was a definition of an idiot, this guy matches it ! - YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up




Obama and Pelosi, the bailout king and queen. If your business is failing call the Bailout Squad. If you company is on the rocks call the Bailout Squad. So where does it stop ? Only Obama knows!



YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up - DALLAS — A man has proven that you can never have too much underwear when he stole more than 130 pairs of panties from a Victoria's Secret store. The Dallas Morning News reported online Tuesday that a man snatched $1,067 worth of underwear from a table at the Dallas store Monday.

A police report said a female accomplice held open the door during the theft and both sped away in a green car. The report did not indicate what styles or sizes were stolen.

There you have it folks, the worlds largest pantie raid ! - YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up




Hey the guy raised the money it has to go somewhere, so why not bailout Detroit. It's better than the taxpayers paying for corporate screw ups !



YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up - PRESCOTT, Ariz. — Authorities in Arizona say a jogger attacked by a rabid fox ran a mile with the animal's jaws clamped on her arm and then drove herself to a hospital. The Yavapai County sheriff's office says the woman told deputies she was on a trail near Prescott on Monday when the fox attacked and bit her foot.

She said she grabbed the fox by the neck when it went for her leg but it bit her arm. The woman wanted the animal tested for rabies so she ran a mile to her car with the fox still biting her arm, then pried it off and tossed it in her trunk and drove to the Prescott hospital. The sheriff's office says the fox later bit an animal control officer. He and the woman are both receiving rabies vaccinations.

This is one jogger who shouldn't have to worry about being mugged while jogging. She obviously can hold her own in a tough situation ! YoU cAn'T mAkE tHiS sTuFf Up




Obama's America. Give me, give me, give me , give me, give me, give me , give me and then give me some more !

Ken Taylor

MICHAEL STEELE RUNNING FOR RNC CHAIRMAN

Amidst much speculation and reports of, "infighting," between Newt Gingrich and Michale Steele concerning the race for the Republican National Committee Chairman, the truth is finally coming to light. Michael Steele, former Lt. Governor of Maryland is seeking and the top candidate for RNC Chairman. Reports of Newt Gingrich also seeking the post were false as well as media accusations of infighting between the two.

Gingrich has thrown his support behind Steele and will work with him to create a new strategy for the party. With the support of Gingrich and his non-profit think tank, Steele is expected easily win the Chairmanship.

That in itself is great news for the party because Steele is a strong conservative who has been critical of the Republican Parties drift away from conservative ideals and policy. In an interview from the Baltimore Sun, Steele stated becoming the party of the future the GOP needed to emulate Ronald Reagan who, "made it cool to be a Republican." Steele continued concerning President Reagan, "It wasn't just his specific policies, but the timeless truths he so eloquently gave voice to, and upon which his policies were based. That's the Republican Party we must re-establish."

With respect to overcoming the Democrat majority and winning the last two elections Steele said, "Our challenge lies not in beating Democrats, but in uniting around a message that solidifies our ranks and attracts new people to our cause. We have to listen to what Americans are telling us about their hopes, desires and needs, and then translate that message into proposals for meaningful action squarely grounded in values we Republicans have always stood for."

Steele has long been known for his conservative ideas and embracing the Reagan philosophy of conservatism. He understands the challenges that the GOP faces but also realizes that in order to face those challenges standing firm on real and proven conservative principles is the key to not only winning elections but in presenting to the American people ideas and policy that voters understand and can support.

Emulating Reagan conservatism does not imply that with Steele at the helm the GOP will be looking for another Reagan. Rather by returning to strong conservative ideals and seeking new and fresh candidates who also understand and stand on those ideals, the GOP can once again connect with voters through ideas and answers for today's issues rather than just being anti-Democrat. An approach that failed in the last two elections.

This is not the first time Steele has sought the RNC chair. He was considered a top candidate when the chairmanship was available after the last election but did not have the backing to win. Now Steele is considered the top candidate with the backing and the best opportunity for victory.

Steele will bring to the GOP as RNC Chairman an opportunity with the help of Newt Gingrich in restoring the credibility and conservative values of the Republican Party and offer new faces as well as well tested and responsible conservative ideas for the future of the GOP looking toward 2010 and 2012.


Ken Taylor

VETERANS DAY AND EVERYDAY, THANK A VET !

They forged a nation by their sacrifice and blood at places like Lexington, Trenton, Camden and Yorktown. They defended the Capitol in 1812 and in that same century fought in unlikely places like Resaca de la Palmae , Rio San Gabriel Mexico, Gettysburg, Shilo, and Antietam. They suffered in the muddy trenches of Europe in WWI and stormed the beaches of Normandy, Anzio, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa in WWII. Korea found them at Inchon and Pork Cop Hill and Vietnam sent them to Hamburger Hill, Song Be and the, " Hanoi Hilton."

They combed the seas and skies during the Cold War while in a state of readiness , watching the moves of , "the Big Red Dog." They liberated Kuwait and have fought in the Middle East once again at Fallujah, Bagdhad, and the mountains of Afghanistan. They have served in Germany, Japan, and every nation in the free world as well as thousands of posts throughout The United States. While the Founding Fathers are the authors of our Nation Veterans are the defenders and the protectors of our freedoms and liberties.

They never left home to be heroes, but in defending this nation that is what they became. Some sought excitement and just the opportunity of leaving home. While others left because of a sense of duty. Not one ever knowing what was in store nor whether they would return home but knowing that service to their country was something they had to do.

They said goodbye to sweethearts, wives, children, moms, dads, friends and neighbors not knowing when they would meet again but left everyone with the assurance that they were doing what they felt was right and necessary for them and the nation they loved. Some never made it home , while others returned troubled by what they experienced or disabled because of wounds received. Many would not talk of what they had seen but all understood that the sacrifice they made was not in vain and helped to keep this Nation and their loved ones free.

Each of us owe a dept of gratitude to these silent heroes that this Nation and her people will never be able to repay. For it is through their sacrifice and commitment that we live and breath in the free air of liberty. With their lives these brave men and women have paid for our liberties by their blood. Through their sweat and determination they fought for a country that they loved and in principles they not only believed in but were willing to lay down their life to defend.

It is because of their sacrifice that we remain free. It is because of their willingness to serve that we are strong and a Nation of greatness. It is because of their dedication to the cause of liberty that we bask in the light of that Statue in the Harbor that calls to the world, "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free."

Each morning we wake in this Nation of the free we owe a debt of thanks to a Vet! As we live and perform our daily tasks we owe a Vet ! When our children leave on the bus in the morning or we drop them off at school we owe their freedom to receive an education to a Vet! When we wake on Sunday mornings and leave for our place of worship we owe that freedom to a Vet ! When we play at Yosemite or in the waves that hit our shores we owe that liberty to a Vet ! When we turn on the tube and root for our favorite NFL , MLB or NBA team or join the fans in the stadiums we owe that enjoyment to a Vet ! When we cash that paycheck or make an investment for the future of our family we owe that financial freedom to a Vet !

When we stand in tribute to the flag that waves in the breeze we owe the very fact that that flag still waves to a Vet ! Our Veterans have served, sacrificed and yes many have died to insure that this Nation will always be free and that each of us who call America home can live free and never worry that those freedoms will be threatened by a foreign power, or military force without their intervention and protection.

While they never sought to be heroes each of them throughout our history have become heroes as they served this Nation and her people throughout the world and here at home. From the beginning our Veterans have told us, " while I serve you will never need worry because I am on watch !"

We owe each of them so much more than we can ever give. They are among us wherever we go in this land and at every opportunity we should tell them how much we appreciate all that they have given for our Nation and our people. Then watch the glimmer in the eye shine with pride just because we said, "thank you !"

They never ask for that thanks but when it is given it causes a swell of pride for a job well done and a service that has kept us free. Today and everyday where ever they may be and whenever we meet them be sure to thank a Vet because we owe them for our freedom, our liberty and the very existence of our Nation!

Ken Taylor

BLOGS OF THE MONTH THE REVERSE DIET CLUB AND CONSERVATIVE CONVICTIONS

Two new faces in the blogosphere will be spotlighted as The Blog of the Month. The first is The Reverse Diet Club. Tricia Cunningham has invented a new diet plan that has not only worked for her but thousands like her. Trish is a fellow South Carolinian and also a strong conservative whose values are expressed in her beliefs and in her small business practices. A must visit!

The second Blog of the Month goes to Conservative Convictions. A new face in the blogosphere but expressing and old and strong conviction for conservative values and principles. Jennifer and Robert believe in Reagan conservatism and Constitutional principles. Jenn has reemerged in political blogging with her partnership with Robert and it is good to see her back in this manner. You can also find her in a more personal way at Palace For A Princess. Another must visit site !

OBAMA AND DEMCORAT WIN EQUALS WAKE UP CALL TO GOP - THE SUNDAY COMMENTARY

Now that the results are in for the 2008 election, the analysis and evaluation will continue for some time. Although from a media stand point, most of the post analysis evaluation is over and the speculation of how the Democrats especially the President Elect will govern dominate the pundits, those within both major political parties are looking at the data and trying to find answers as to how this election developed and what factors brought the final results, especially the GOP.

The Democrats are already looking at this election as a referendum on conservatism and the failure of it as an ideology. As such they also believe that they have a mandate for a liberal agenda and in many respects extreme liberalism which will drive their agenda for most likely at least the first two years of the Obama administration.

There are many within the Republican party who also believe that this election was a failure of conservatism and as such believe the GOP should re-invent itself and "adjust," conservative ideals to a changing society. Fred Barnes the Executive Editor of the Weekly Standard and a Fox News contributor has already expressed this thought as the key to revitalizing the Republican party.

This adjusting conservative ideas is in actuality the very reason that the Republican party finds itself in a very small minority in Washington and the loser in the paste two elections. The pundits and the leadership of the GOP have yet to realize that it is NOT conservatism that has failed in the last two elections but Republicanism. The GOP left conservative ideas and values behind several years ago and the electorate has as a result left the GOP behind in elections.

This is evidenced by the results of liberal ballot initiatives that fell to defeat throughout the Nation in the 2008 election. Each were initiatives that took a liberal stance on moral issues such as abortion, gay marriage and even in San Fransisco legalizing prostitution. All of these initiatives failed even in very liberal California.

Also polling shows time and again conservative ideas that deal with issues that do not have moral implications such as less taxation, strong defense, limited government and strict adherence to the original intent of the Constitution continue to poll higher throughout the country by a two to one margin.

While I still believe that President Bush believes in much of the conservative ideology, as President he has failed to follow that ideology in the way he has governed. The GOP leadership in the House and Senate has also failed to follow the conservative ideology, especially when in the majority and even while in the minority failed to present conservative ideas as the alternative to the liberal agenda of Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid choosing to be a minority who opposed because of politics and not because of principle.

This is a key as to why Republicans have been labeled as partisans and obstructionists because as they opposed the Democrats they NEVER presented alternative ideas following conservative values that the country could embrace and as such have found themselves in a limbo state wondering what to do next. Republicans including John McCain ran AGAINST Democrats and not FOR an alternative idea. Much of McCain's agenda sounded very similar to Obama's with only slight differences, especially in facing the economic troubles which drove this election.

In fact it was only after Barack Obama met Joe the Plumber and spoke of spreading the wealth that Republicans finally found an issue that the electorate could cling to and that was less taxation. Yet even this was not enough to give the GOP a win because the electorate still did not see leadership in the avenue of ideas nor any real alternatives to what a very charismatic and well articulated candidate for the Democrats presented.

This has been the failing of the GOP for many years. Those in leadership positions including the Presidency failed to follw the clear conservative ideas and principles that brought Republicans to the majority in the first place. In fact the only time conservatism was talked about by the GOP was when they would run for office. The old adage," actions speak louder than words," has never applied more that it does to Republicans. Many GOP candidates talked a good conservative game but when in Washington NEVER followed the rhetoric with action that matched the rhetoric and the public no longer believed them.

When Democrats spend like drunken sailors, the electorate while not liking it accepts it with little if any anger because that is what Democrats do and as such voters expect it of Democrats. When Republicans do the same, it angers the electorate because voters do not expect Republicans to spend and expand government. When both parties act alike voters elect the party that at least admits they are spenders and not the party that tries to convince the electorate that they believe in less spending and smaller government when their actions have proven otherwise.

The Republican party has regressed to the party of the 1960's. The party of what was known as the Country Club Republicans like Nelson Rockefeller who were what we would call now RINO Republicans because as conservatives we understand that they do not follow conservative ideology. In 1965 the House was made up of 295 Democrats and 140 Republicans with a Senate consisting of 66 Democrats and 34 Republicans.

While the numbers from this election have smaller majorities for Democrats the GOP finds itself in a similar situation with voters as the GOP of the sixties, Country Club Republicans who talk one game and govern by another. Out of touch with the core of the Republican party and not understanding why the electorate does not support them.

The rank and file of the GOP remains conservative but the leadership both in Washington and in the party have abandoned conservatism. This is why Sarah Palin became and still remains so popular around the country. People called her, "refreshing," which she was, but to conservatives she gave a sign that maybe the GOP had seen the light and conservative ideas and values would prevail. She should not have been seen as just refreshing but as a candidate who expressed what the party beleived.

The came the bailout package, McCain's ideas to expand it and attacks even within the GOP against Palin and conservatives regardless of party affiliation realized that Republicans were just talking a good game and not playing the game that they talked. If Republicans ever want to lead again then they must rediscover what Ronald Reagan proved to be the ideology of success...... conservatism.

Reagan defeated the Country Club crowd in the GOP by connecting with the conservative values and ideas that resonated around the country, faith, strong national defense, limited government, less spending, less taxes. Sound principles of freedom expressed through personal responsibility and not government intervention. He understood that government was not the solution but the problem. He knew that the Bill of Rights were not just words on paper but fundamental principles that allowed liberty and achievement.

He understood that Americans love this country and that expressing that love was good and not something to be ashamed of or to avoid. Being open and honest about our patriotism and waving the flag not only felt good but was an expression of pride in who we are as Americans and what we stand for as a Nation.

In two years this country will face another election. If, Democrats fail, and I believe they will, the country will once again look for leadership that will take this country down the path of success and prosperity. A path of honor and pride, of strength and values that match the beliefs and principles of the people and our Constitution.

When there is a lack of leadership those looking for leaders will grasp on to anyone who looks like a leader regardless of what that leader expresses as ideology or ideas. This election has proven that more than any other. But when ideas that meet the beliefs of Americans shine, the people will follow those beliefs and not JUST the charisma of a politician.

This belief comes from the grassroots. Reagan new this and that is why he connected so well with Americans. If the GOP has any hope in 2010 and 2012 then the time is now to being finding conservative candidates to replace Republicans who have abandoned the conservative principles that resonate with Americans.

Replacing the Country Club with conservatives who not only talk a conservative game but who lead by conservative principles. Sarah Palin is on of those. Bobby Jindal of Louisiana is another. Michael Steele yet another. But conservative leadership cannot be only at the top of the GOP ticket but in the City and County Councils, State Legislatures, Governors and of course those we send to Washington.

The time is now to begin the next Reagan Revolution. We will never find another Reagan but his ideals and his beliefs are still found throughout and in the majority of Americans and on that alone we can build. The time is now to begin returning conservative values and leadership from the grassroots up. The time IS NOW !

Ken Taylor

BARACK OBAMA'S FIRST PRESS CONFERENCE......SORT OF

The new President Elect is holding his first post election press conference and we have managed to acquire a transcript, ( sort of, actually I made it up), of Barack Obama's pre-televised remarks to reporters. Here is what Obama had to say to the press before the cameras started rolling.

"Thank you for coming today and before we begin this live press conference I would like to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation to each of you in the press whose tireless assistance in getting me elected is a big reason that I stand before you as President Elect. I especially wish to thank NBC, CBS, MSNBC, ABC, The New York Times, The LA Times and the Chicago Tribune for you exceedingly endless efforts in positive reporting that was essential in my election.

As a token of my appreciation to each of you who made this day possible, I am issuing a check from the left over funds from the massive campaign war chest that was acquired during the course of campaign. Just my way of saying thanks for all of your hard work on my behalf and to thank you in advance for your continued support during the next four years. "

Reports from the press conference also confirmed that seven reporters fainted from excitement when Obama entered the room, three had to receive oxygen as they hyperventilated from excitement and 45 fell as the tingle running down their leg, medically known as the Chris Matthews effect, caused them to lose balance.

Obama's newly appointed Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel, prior to the President Elect entering the press room was seen having a very heated discussion with reporters from Fox News and we have learned that they received a stern warning from Emanuel concerning the content of their coverage and the," Democrat Assassin," jabbed a steak knife, one of his better known intimidation tactics, in the Fox camera to stress his warning.

As Obama left the press room after the press conference many reporters found themselves overjoyed to the point of tears, while several reporters who Obama pointed out in order to accept their question stated that they could not believe that he actually pointed at them and that the pointing was the high point of their life, a moment they will never forget.

Writers note: of course this is a tongue in cheek account of an Obama press conference but I'll bet that reporters who have been obviously in the tank along with their papers and networks during the course of the campaign, if truth be known if one could view what was running through their mind while in his presence, the tingle would be there as it was reported months ago by Chris Matthews.

Ken Taylor

BARACK OBAMA IT IS TIME TO GOVERN

He asked for it for more than 20 months. He campaigned with a flair that few have seen in politics. He managed to win an election and keep much of his past in secrecy, a hard task in today's political climate. He has on his side something that few President's ever have. A media that is predominately in his court and not trying to dig up dirt or even scrutinize his policy.

Obama has also broken a ceiling that has been used as an excuse for lack of success in this country for many years. As the first black President, achieving the highest goal in our Nation, race is no longer an excuse for not achieving or succeeding in this country. Yes there are still those who are racist. Obama's election does not completely eliminate racism in people. But anyone who believes that just because of their color, whatever that color is, prevents them from succeeding need only point to the White House and say that if he can achieve and succeed then I can to. Obama has proven that race is not an obstacle if one wants something enough to achieve it in this land of the free.

Now that he has achieved the Presidency it is now time to govern. He stated throughout his campaign that he would be a President who would reach across the isle to bring this Nation politically together yet his first executive decision, selecting a Vice President, was a very partisan selection of a Washington insider who has a history of voting right down party lines.

His second executive decision is not only as partisan but a selection that has some in his own party shaking their heads because of the hard core reputation of Obama's selection for Chief of Staff, the most powerful position in the White House. Illinois Congressman Rahm Emanuel, is best known according to the LA Times, "as something of a Democratic political assassin. "

The Times continues, "Emanuel has relentlessly attacked his foes and gone ruthlessly after anyone who stood in his way." This does not sound like the type of guy who will bring people together as Obama pledged in his campaign but rather create strong partisanship and political fighting. Emanuel is well known as hot tempered and having a hatred of Republicans. So much for reaching across the isle.

Other speculation is suggesting that John Kerry may be tapped for Secretary of State. While I am not a Kerry fan his selection for State may have its advantages. This guy is one of the most monotone and dull speakers in history. Picture Kerry sitting across from any head of state and after half an hour of Kerry monotones, anyone will cry, "stop, stop, OK, whatever you want but please just shut up you are boring me to tears! "

Over the past nearly two years Barack Obama has talked a game that promises the world with details that cause fear in many because of their Socialistic approach. His election sparked what the AP called a reaction, " of concern over an Obama administration," on Wall Street as the Dow had its largest post election drop in history. Investors are selling in anticipation of Obama Capital Gains Tax hikes.

The question still has yet to be answered as to whether Obama will govern from the middle in order to keep Pelosi and Reid in check now that they have larger majorities in Congress. Or if he will lead the band in taking this still center right Nation to the far left with liberal/Socialist policies that were highly contested during the course of the campaign., Income redistribution, tax welfare, huge entitlements and a foreign policy of appeasement. His campaign for the Presidency suggests that the later will be the case.

Maybe his next selection of a cabinet position should be George Soros as Secretary of the Treasury. After all with a proposed one trillion dollars in new spending with only the call to end US presence in Iraq as the only spending cut, after increased taxes are not able to foot the bill maybe as Secretary of the Treasury Obama could ask Soros for a loan to pay for his programs.

Ken Taylor

BARACK OBAMA - 44TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES

In an historic outcome Barack Obama has been elected as the 44th President of The United States. While as a conservative I have many misgivings and disagreements ideologically, politically and philosophically with Barack Obama, as an American I must recognize the tremendous historical significance to his election as President.

For those in our Nation who believe that this country that we love is racist or that anyone who seeks to achieve in this land cannot reach for the stars, then the election of Obama should and must put to rest those thoughts and feelings and acknowledge that this is the greatest Nation on earth. Where a man whose descendants suffered the worst atrocities in our history has achieved the highest office in our land speaks of not only the greatness of our Nation but in the equality and advancements that we have achieved that brought us to this historic moment.

I do believe that we have elected an unknown and untested person in Barack Obama and it is now up to him to prove to all of us that he is more than eloquent speeches and well phrased words. His election, I believe does not change the make up of this Nation and its still conservative nature, but rather a referendum on the failures of the Republican party in neglecting those values and principles that created what is known as the Reagan revolution and the conservative principles that made President Reagan so popular and by most historians one of the greatest Presidents in our history.

While the emotion for change elected Obama, it is now up to him to live up to the hype created by that emotion. His unknown quantity remains a very disturbing factor in his election and the words of his running mate now Vice President Elect Joe Biden haunt the celebration of history of an African Americans election with the fear of the test on the international stage that will appear within the next year to find what this unknown quantity is made of and how he handles the most powerful and taxing job and office in the world and in history.

Running a virtually flawless campaign and leading a Nation are as different as night and day. Inexperience allows for many mistakes and whether Obama has the discipline and ability to handle and avoid those mistakes presents a chilling question mark concerning his Presidency. His rhetoric that calls for reshaping the foundations of this country imply much more than just overcoming race barriers in high office. Our national sovereignty and prestige as the one and only super power does not lend itself to bowing to lesser nations or asking their permission to act on our behalf.

Will his change the world view and seemingly adoption of embracing European values and forms of government weaken this Nation and endanger our security ? As President it is his responsibility to prevent this and one must wonder from his words whether he will or whether he won't. This to adds to the unknown quantity.

One must wonder also that even with the hype, if the economy especially the mortgage collapse and the timing within the confines of the Presidential race had not happened as they did would Barack Obama even be President Elect. We may never know the answer but my opinion is that had the collapse taken place last summer or after election day, the outcome of this election would have been much different.

Now the electorate has spoken and there is a new President and whether we agree with him or not he will be the Chief Executive of our Nation. For those who agree with him it is a time of celebration and cheer. For those who disagree it is a time of disappointment. As Americans it is our responsibility whether from the right or the left to hold both he and our government accountable to we the people and to the Constitutional principles that make us free. That is the beauty and the singular wonder of this land and this Republic we love The United States of America !

Ken Taylor

MCCAINS NUMBERS ARE NOT ADDING UP FOR A WIN

As optimistic as I have been throughout this election cycle, the numbers as the actual vote is tallied is not looking good for John McCain. All of the networks and cable news outlets have called Ohio for Obama and even giving McCain, Florida, Missouri, North Carolina, Virginia, and Indiana which at this point are still to close to call but showing favorable for McCain, without Ohio the closest that I can crunch electoral votes for McCain is 258.

Unless a miracle in counting actual votes in Ohio shift the state to McCain Barack Obama and Socialism will be the next President. Unless a major change comes the rest of the night I will not be posting again until I post my full reaction tomorrow in my regular Wednesday post.

God bless America...we are going to need it!!!!

Ken Taylor

GEORGIA GOES TO MCCAIN

Taking McCain to 69 electoral votes Georgia is added to the McCain column.

PENNSYLAVANIA GOES OBAMA WHILE ARKANSAS GOES FOR MCCAIN

The major battleground state of Pennsylvania moves into the Obama column taking Obama to 103 electoral votes while Arkansas goes for McCain giving him 54 electors. Senate Democrats also gain a third seat as New Hamshire decideds not to send Sinnunu back to Washington.

ELEIZABETH DOLE FALLS IN NC

Due in part to a controversial ad Elizabeth Dole has lost her Senate seat in North Carolina giving the Democrats a second gain in the Senate.

MCCAIN PICKS UP TENN. AND OK

John McCain moves up to 39 electoral votes with the addition of Tennessee and Oklahoma moving into the McCain column.

MAINE, CONN, MASS AND ILLINOIS FOR OBAMA

Taking Obama up to 77 electoral votes the states of Maine, Conn, Mass and Illinois with no surprise go to Obama.

MCCAIN PICKS UP SOUTH CAROLINA

Taking John McCain up to 21 electoral votes South Carolina enters the McCain column.

DELAWARE GOES OBAMA

To no ones surprise, Joe Bidens's home state of Delaware has gone to Barack Obama adding 3 to the Obama electoral votes giving him 6 to McCain's 13.

MCCAIN PICKS UP WEST VIRGINIA

With the night still young, John McCain leads in the popular vote 53 - 46 and West Virginia has been placed in the McCain column giving him 13 electoral votes to Obama's 3.

SENATE DEMOCRATS GAIN ONE SEAT

Mark Warner Democrat has been declared the winner in the Virginian Senate race to replace retiring GOP Senator Warner,( no relation). Could this be the beginning of a Democrat super majority. We shall see as the night progresses.

MCCAIN WINS KENTUCKY

With polls closing in the east and several more closing at 7:30, John McCain has won the state of Kentucky with its 8 electoral votes. the beginning of a long night has begun with a McCain victory.

ELECTION DAY 2008 LIVE UPDATES

Throughout election night Oliver and Ken will post live updates of election results and numbers as polls close and races for The White House, The Senate and The House of Representatives begin to shape into the final results of this historic 2008 election.

ELECTION DAY 2008 A REFERENDUM ON OBAMA

The polls opened in South Carolina at 7AM Eastern Time and I was there ten minutes before the doors opened to cast my vote for the next President of The United States, John McCain. I have voted at the same precinct in the last seven elections, General and Primaries both. I have never seen voter turn out as high as it looks to be today.

As I was driving later in the morning, I passed four precincts and parking lots were full with voters lining up all the way to the street. Reports all over the area are telling of record turn out, and the evidence that I witnessed both at my precinct and others shows that to be the case.

All across the Nation long lines and record numbers seem to be showing up at the polls to elect the next President. Could the numbers mean a referendum on Barack Obama ? Indications from early voting do not show large numbers of new voters to coincide with the reported record new registrations that Democrats claim to have signed up in their get our the vote drives, with the illegal assistance of ACORN.

Across the board early voting has been predominately previous voters and in most states the numbers of Republican and Democrat have been somewhat equal. In other words most of the early voting are voters who rather than wait in long lines as they have in the past have chosen to get out early to avoid the crowds on election day.

Dick Morris a former Clinton White House staffer has suggested that because of the massive amount of media exposure and the 4-1 advantage in campaign ads that Obama has had over McCain, is causing the Illinois Senator to more or less take on the roll of an incumbent in a Presidential election that has no incumbent. His over exposure has caused, in essence, the affect of voters growing tired of seeing him and as such he is almost thought of as the incumbent candidate.

In nearly all previous elections large voter turn out is considered a disadvantage for the incumbent and usually thought to be a referendum on that candidate. This combined with new revelations about Obama in which he recently spoke of his plan to spread the wealth with Joe the Plumber and his proposal concerning clean coal that he admitted in an interview would ,"bankrupt," the coal industry and cause electric prices to,"skyrocket," are having a negative affect on the Obama campaign.

Both of these factors could very well be combining to create a large turn out to vote AGAINST Obama rather than the much talked about turn out which some believed would result in his election. The result of a large turn out remains to be seen when the votes are counted but this one fact is undeniable, going into today's election McCain clearly has the momentum as Obama's numbers have been shrinking consistently in the last two weeks and especially last weekend and Monday leading into the election.

Undecided voters are obviously breaking for McCain and the battleground states are showing in most polling either a tie or well within the margin of error. An article that I read at Redstate yesterday from a staffer in the Obama camp who has become very disillusioned by what she has seen from the inside states that the internal polling taken by the campaign creates a very dim picture for Obama and the numbers released to the media concerning new registration is tremendously higher then the actual new registrants.

To my fellow conservatives who think that it was over before the day began, DO NOT let media hype and scewed polling discourage you from voting. That is exactly what the scewed polls and the negative reporting about McCain was designed to do, so do not buy into it.

On election day 2004, polling showed John Kerry up by six points with an electoral count of 305 with only 270 needed to win. As exit polls started hitting the news by 3:30 the afternoon of the election news services were reporting a Kerry landslide. Then the actual numbers started coming in and an entirely different picture began to show. The final result when the votes were counted had a Bush victory with almost a 5 point margin in the popular vote and a 286 to 252 win in the electoral vote.

To all Americans whatever your party affiliation or non-affiliation voting in an election is a privilege granted us through the freedoms that are outlined in our Constitution. Never take them for granted and vote. Now I will state my belief and my position concerning this election.

Never before in our history have we been faced an election with a candidate who has made it very clear that if elected he would shake the foundational principles of our Nation. Those principles of freedom and individual responsibility without government hindrances or government involvement in our ability to achieve the American Dream have been the hall mark of the greatness of our Nation.

Barack Obama has made it clear that he believes that government should shoulder the responsibility of handling our daily lives and that government alone should decide how much or how little we can grow and achieve as those in power in an Obama administration redistribute income, increase taxes, increase government entitlements and expenditures and change the fabric of our Nation from a free Republic of, by and for the people to one in which as Karl Marx put it in his design for Socialism, "from each according to his ability, to each according to his need." Never what the Founders envisioned for America and never what our Constitution provides as our rights for our individual freedom.

Ken Taylor