In 2004, 73 percent of the U.S. military voted for a presidential candidate. Officials believe it may be even higher this November 4th.
According to a CBS Poll, the War in Iraq is the second most important issue in this upcoming election. Right behind the economy, national security is the largest concern among registered voters. Typically, the military is not supposed to engage in partisan political activity. However, with this historic election upon us, soldiers have been speaking out.
SPC Geoff Snyder says his political endorsements have been inconsistent this year. Originally, Snyder supported Barack Obama. However, with a change of seasons came a change in interest. After his deployment to Iraq on September 20th, Snyder quickly became a supporter of John McCain.
“Initially, the change Barack Obama represents was refreshing. His timetable for withdrawing troops seemed like a blessing,” says Snyder. “However, after being in Iraq, I realized that our presence is needed here and removing ourselves can put Americans in danger of another terrorist attack.”
In addition to Senator Obama’s foreign policy, Snyder also questions his lack of military experience and its potential effect on those fighting overseas.
“John McCain’s extensive military history definitely shows that he is ready to be President. Being a POW tells the country that he is familiar with foreign affairs and will lead America in the right direction.”
Though the military is generally a more conservative group, soldiers like Sergeant Bradley Desire are voicing their support for the Democratic Party.
“After being on the front line, I realize that I just want to go home." says Desire. "Barack Obama is the only candidate that will make that dream a reality. If Obama gets enough support from the military, I truly believe he will be the next president in the White House.”
Soldier’s voicing their political endorsements brings a fresh face to politics. However, will the opinions of the armed forces influence voters? We will let the polls speak on November 4th.
http://www.pollingreport.com/prioriti.htm
http://abcnews.go.com/WN/story?id=4244798
11.09.2008
Election Night
On election night, my television was tuned to CNN. The anchor had a touch-screen digital map which immediately caught my eye. As the Electoral College was discussed, he would touch each state. (turning it either blue or red) The anchors goal was to illustrate the possible outcomes of each state and its effect on the election’s end result. For example, he theoretically made Obama win Ohio and Pennsylvania. Then, he showed the viewers, based on those wins, which states McCain had to win in order to secure the Presidency. As the results came into the network, I began to realize how hard it would be for McCain to actually win the election. The interactive map helped me fully understand the electoral vote and made watching the election more fun.
Directly underneath the anchor, at the bottom of the screen, CNN was rolling live information. The information displayed was often local senate and congressional results. I found this feature extremely distracting. Even though these results are extremely important in American politics, I was more concerned with the general election. At times, I found myself trying to keep up with the fast paced news at the bottom rather than the Presidency results.
I really enjoyed how the network had a countdown for each state’s poll closings. This feature increased my excitement and attentiveness to the television. (I noticed mostly every major news network had this countdown.) By 9:30 pm, CNN was already expecting Obama to win and began conducting interviews with anchors. I did not like that approach because it seemed like they were being unfair to the Republican Party. Even though it was virtually impossible for John McCain to win at that point, I still feel like they could have waited until the official announcement.
After Obama won, CNN had split screens in Arizona and Chicago. There were more than 1 million people in Chicago and the network did a great job capturing those moments. They showed images of Obama supporters celebrating and crying in joy. These images were extremely powerful and definitely illustrated the magnitude of this historical event. CNN also had live video from their anchor in Kenya.
CNN.com had mostly all the same information as the television broadcast. They had an electoral map which refreshed every 2 minutes. After the winner was announced, there was a virtual bar graph that broke down the shift in power from the Republicans to the Democrats. (in the Senate and House of Reps) I liked this feature because I was able to see the figures and understand the impact it would have on the government.
The website also had many polls and full discussion threads. There was an area where online users could leave comments. The comments were then projected into individual bubbles, as if all the people were communicating with each other. I spent a lot of time in this section of the website because it was entertaining to see what the conflicting web users were arguing about.
Overall, I enjoyed watching the election results on television more. I actually attended the party hosted by QU Democrats in Alumni Hall. They had CNN projected on a huge big screen. I was happy that there was a place on campus for students to come together and watch the results of this historic election. Even though I am a registered republican, I enjoyed discussing and learning from the democrats of QU. Overall, I am glad that I was able to participate and witness history being made.
Directly underneath the anchor, at the bottom of the screen, CNN was rolling live information. The information displayed was often local senate and congressional results. I found this feature extremely distracting. Even though these results are extremely important in American politics, I was more concerned with the general election. At times, I found myself trying to keep up with the fast paced news at the bottom rather than the Presidency results.
I really enjoyed how the network had a countdown for each state’s poll closings. This feature increased my excitement and attentiveness to the television. (I noticed mostly every major news network had this countdown.) By 9:30 pm, CNN was already expecting Obama to win and began conducting interviews with anchors. I did not like that approach because it seemed like they were being unfair to the Republican Party. Even though it was virtually impossible for John McCain to win at that point, I still feel like they could have waited until the official announcement.
After Obama won, CNN had split screens in Arizona and Chicago. There were more than 1 million people in Chicago and the network did a great job capturing those moments. They showed images of Obama supporters celebrating and crying in joy. These images were extremely powerful and definitely illustrated the magnitude of this historical event. CNN also had live video from their anchor in Kenya.
CNN.com had mostly all the same information as the television broadcast. They had an electoral map which refreshed every 2 minutes. After the winner was announced, there was a virtual bar graph that broke down the shift in power from the Republicans to the Democrats. (in the Senate and House of Reps) I liked this feature because I was able to see the figures and understand the impact it would have on the government.
The website also had many polls and full discussion threads. There was an area where online users could leave comments. The comments were then projected into individual bubbles, as if all the people were communicating with each other. I spent a lot of time in this section of the website because it was entertaining to see what the conflicting web users were arguing about.
Overall, I enjoyed watching the election results on television more. I actually attended the party hosted by QU Democrats in Alumni Hall. They had CNN projected on a huge big screen. I was happy that there was a place on campus for students to come together and watch the results of this historic election. Even though I am a registered republican, I enjoyed discussing and learning from the democrats of QU. Overall, I am glad that I was able to participate and witness history being made.
10.21.2008
The Great Schlep
My grandson Benjamin visited us in West Palm Beach this weekend. When asked about his sudden urge to visit his grandfather and I, he answered simply with the “Great Schlep”. Puzzled, I questioned Benjamin what this nonsense he was talking of. I know that in Yiddish, “Schlep” means pull. However, I could not make any connection as to why he would travel 1,000 miles from New York City to discuss Yiddish. As Friday approached, my nerves were uncontrollable. I was worried that Ben was in trouble and needed our help. My husband, Norman, was convinced that Benjamin needed money to take care of a legal problem. I had no idea what I was in for.
As soon as my grandson arrived at Golda Rose, our Jewish community, he began to speak of this Sarah Silverman character. I’ve never heard of Sarah but Benjamin seemed to think very highly of her. Apparently, she is a very popular Jewish comedian. According to Ben, this woman has started a movement called the “Great Schlep”. This political plea urges young Jews to travel to Florida to convince their grandparents to vote for Barack Obama. Norman and I have always been Democrats, so Benjamin doesn’t need to convince us there. However, with the election upon us, I was uncertain if I would vote for Mr. Obama. Well, Benjamin presented an impressive argument that has changed our minds!
Ben revealed all the things that young African Americans have in common with Florida grandparents; a connection I never thought existed! Did you know that we both love tracksuits and Cadillac’s? Benjamin said that Barack Obama wants to protect social security AND Israel! If that doesn’t get our vote, I don’t know what will!
It’s clear that Benjamin and the “Great Schlep” just want what’s best for Bubby. I’m going to tell all my friends at the senior center to vote for Barack Obama. I’ll even bribe them with falafel if I need to.
As soon as my grandson arrived at Golda Rose, our Jewish community, he began to speak of this Sarah Silverman character. I’ve never heard of Sarah but Benjamin seemed to think very highly of her. Apparently, she is a very popular Jewish comedian. According to Ben, this woman has started a movement called the “Great Schlep”. This political plea urges young Jews to travel to Florida to convince their grandparents to vote for Barack Obama. Norman and I have always been Democrats, so Benjamin doesn’t need to convince us there. However, with the election upon us, I was uncertain if I would vote for Mr. Obama. Well, Benjamin presented an impressive argument that has changed our minds!
Ben revealed all the things that young African Americans have in common with Florida grandparents; a connection I never thought existed! Did you know that we both love tracksuits and Cadillac’s? Benjamin said that Barack Obama wants to protect social security AND Israel! If that doesn’t get our vote, I don’t know what will!
It’s clear that Benjamin and the “Great Schlep” just want what’s best for Bubby. I’m going to tell all my friends at the senior center to vote for Barack Obama. I’ll even bribe them with falafel if I need to.
10.14.2008
lostremote.com
http://www.lostremote.com/2008/10/13/snl-bits-now-more-popular-off-tv-than-on/
This article is interesting because it discusses how SNL episodes are more popular on the web than on tv. With the recent Tina Fey/Sarah Palin skit, I think that the show has had a boost in viewers. These viewers are likely to re-watch the segments online. In relation to this class, it seems like even the most popular television programs are becoming more internet based. Tv shows like Grey's Anatomy and Lost have entire seasons available online. Through this, the networks websites get more hits, thus increasing their advertisements and other programs. This trend is definitely dominating the internet world and will continue as long as television networks provide such services.
This article is interesting because it discusses how SNL episodes are more popular on the web than on tv. With the recent Tina Fey/Sarah Palin skit, I think that the show has had a boost in viewers. These viewers are likely to re-watch the segments online. In relation to this class, it seems like even the most popular television programs are becoming more internet based. Tv shows like Grey's Anatomy and Lost have entire seasons available online. Through this, the networks websites get more hits, thus increasing their advertisements and other programs. This trend is definitely dominating the internet world and will continue as long as television networks provide such services.
10.01.2008
The New York Sun
http://www.lostremote.com/2008/09/30/the-sun-wont-come-out-tomorrow/
The New York Sun was forced to print its last issue today, after losing more than a million dollars per month this year. This event relates to our class because it demonstrates the failing newspaper industry. It is possible that readers are turning to web-based news sources rather than physical newspapers, thus damaging the print industry. I support internet newspapers because they can be easily updated. They are also environment friendly and more accessible. Its a shame that the web is pushing the print industry out of business. However, I think that this shift in dominance is inevitable. Eventually, everything will be on the internet. I truly believe libraries will also experience the effects of this trend. I am eager to see how this pattern continues and changes the journalism world.
The New York Sun was forced to print its last issue today, after losing more than a million dollars per month this year. This event relates to our class because it demonstrates the failing newspaper industry. It is possible that readers are turning to web-based news sources rather than physical newspapers, thus damaging the print industry. I support internet newspapers because they can be easily updated. They are also environment friendly and more accessible. Its a shame that the web is pushing the print industry out of business. However, I think that this shift in dominance is inevitable. Eventually, everything will be on the internet. I truly believe libraries will also experience the effects of this trend. I am eager to see how this pattern continues and changes the journalism world.
9.28.2008
The Danica Patrick of Politics
Extreme sports are not usually associated with the wives of Presidential candidates. However, Cindy McCain likes to switch things up on Capitol Hill.
In April 2004, McCain suffered a mild stroke and was hospitalized for four days. After being released, Cindy was limited physically and experienced severe depression. To lift spirits, McCain’s son, Jack, bought her a four-day learning course to the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving in Chandler, Arizona. Jack, highly interested in drift racing, thought the gift would be a fun and unique form of rehabilitation for his mother. Cindy embraced the opportunity with open arms.
According to ESPN, “drift racing occurs when a driver intentionally skids a car sideways through a turn on a road or a marked course, usually at speeds that exceed the legal limit.” Originating in the mountains of central Japan in the early 1990s, drift racing has evolved into a competitive sport, with competitions in countries like Malaysia, Australia and the United States.
McCain credits the motor sport with helping her recover from the stroke, by improving skills such as coordination and concentration. Cindy revealed to the Washington Whispers that she learned to push limits and exceed her goals through motor sports. Setting her apart from other politician’s wives, McCain has even built her own modified drift car and is competing as a team with her son in amateur competitions.
Recent studies have shown the wives of presidential candidates influence three out of five Americans. St. Rose freshman Michael Morley believes that Cindy McCain’s unique interest will help her husband on the campaign trail. Morley, also an avid drift racing fan, says Cindy’s young-hearted enthusiasm could give her a new found appeal and sway voters.
“Not only is Cindy McCain much younger than her husband, she also shares a similar interest as a majority of my peers,” Says Morley. “Extreme sports have a huge following among young adults and I think this edge can put McCain above the other candidates. It’s possible that she’ll win many votes among that age group.”
Will The Danica Patrick of Politics steer this election in a different direction? The polls will speak on November 4th.
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/e60/news/story?id=3571491
http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/daily-news/080911-Cindy-McCain-Drift-Racer-/
In April 2004, McCain suffered a mild stroke and was hospitalized for four days. After being released, Cindy was limited physically and experienced severe depression. To lift spirits, McCain’s son, Jack, bought her a four-day learning course to the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving in Chandler, Arizona. Jack, highly interested in drift racing, thought the gift would be a fun and unique form of rehabilitation for his mother. Cindy embraced the opportunity with open arms.
According to ESPN, “drift racing occurs when a driver intentionally skids a car sideways through a turn on a road or a marked course, usually at speeds that exceed the legal limit.” Originating in the mountains of central Japan in the early 1990s, drift racing has evolved into a competitive sport, with competitions in countries like Malaysia, Australia and the United States.
McCain credits the motor sport with helping her recover from the stroke, by improving skills such as coordination and concentration. Cindy revealed to the Washington Whispers that she learned to push limits and exceed her goals through motor sports. Setting her apart from other politician’s wives, McCain has even built her own modified drift car and is competing as a team with her son in amateur competitions.
Recent studies have shown the wives of presidential candidates influence three out of five Americans. St. Rose freshman Michael Morley believes that Cindy McCain’s unique interest will help her husband on the campaign trail. Morley, also an avid drift racing fan, says Cindy’s young-hearted enthusiasm could give her a new found appeal and sway voters.
“Not only is Cindy McCain much younger than her husband, she also shares a similar interest as a majority of my peers,” Says Morley. “Extreme sports have a huge following among young adults and I think this edge can put McCain above the other candidates. It’s possible that she’ll win many votes among that age group.”
Will The Danica Patrick of Politics steer this election in a different direction? The polls will speak on November 4th.
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/e60/news/story?id=3571491
http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/daily-news/080911-Cindy-McCain-Drift-Racer-/
9.18.2008
Celebrity or Politician?
The debate of whether Barack Obama is more fit for Hollywood than White House has recently implicated itself into the campaign trail.
The image of Senator Obama in front of Greek columns at the Democratic Convention raised eyebrows and questions. McCain advisors ridiculed the stagecraft as “overblown, reflective of Obama's generous self-regard”. Was the presidential hopeful trying to replicate those at Pennsylvania Ave? Or did Obama just want to maintain the “rockstar” feel of his 85,000 crowd at INVESCO Field?
Either way, the Democratic efforts didn’t settle well with the Republican party. “I’ll be the first one to admit that Barack Obama has become a global celebrity,” says Rick Davis, McCain campaign manager. “He’s the first politician with fans.”
McCain’s summer ad criticized this aspect; declaring the presidential candidate in the same category as Paris Hilton. Obama’s celebrity appeal may come from the fact that he is regarded highly in Hollywood, drawing in supporters like George Clooney and Oprah Winfrey. Throughout this election, Mr. Obama has also posed on the covers of numerous magazines, interviews on “Access Hollywood” and has a possible guest spot on the infamous Saturday Night Live.
It’s safe to say this political trend started after Bill Clinton’s 1992 appearance on “The Arsenio Hall Show.” Clinton’s appeal and charisma could possibly have been the factor that snagged him the Presidential ticket. Even after the Monica Lewinsky scandal, President Clinton was an international “star”, to say the least.
Jessica Joy, a junior at the University of Connecticut says Obama's fanbase is just what this election needs. “Ever since Barack Obama came into the picture, UCONN students have a new interest in politics.” Joy adds, “Who cares if he is considered a celebrity? If that’s what it takes for our generation to become involved in this election, then I definitely embrace it.”
With the current crisis in Iraq, American’s are certainly seeking a larger-than-life leader. Voters are looking for a candidate who projects power, confidence and the ability to rescue a nation in need. It’s clear that Barack Obama has the likability factor. But does he have what it takes to be the next President of the United States?
http://www.newsweek.com/id/157188
http://media.www.oxyweekly.com/media/storage/paper1200/news/2008/09/10/Opinion/Part-Politician.Part.Celebrity.All.American-3422220.shtml?refsource=collegeheadlines
The image of Senator Obama in front of Greek columns at the Democratic Convention raised eyebrows and questions. McCain advisors ridiculed the stagecraft as “overblown, reflective of Obama's generous self-regard”. Was the presidential hopeful trying to replicate those at Pennsylvania Ave? Or did Obama just want to maintain the “rockstar” feel of his 85,000 crowd at INVESCO Field?
Either way, the Democratic efforts didn’t settle well with the Republican party. “I’ll be the first one to admit that Barack Obama has become a global celebrity,” says Rick Davis, McCain campaign manager. “He’s the first politician with fans.”
McCain’s summer ad criticized this aspect; declaring the presidential candidate in the same category as Paris Hilton. Obama’s celebrity appeal may come from the fact that he is regarded highly in Hollywood, drawing in supporters like George Clooney and Oprah Winfrey. Throughout this election, Mr. Obama has also posed on the covers of numerous magazines, interviews on “Access Hollywood” and has a possible guest spot on the infamous Saturday Night Live.
It’s safe to say this political trend started after Bill Clinton’s 1992 appearance on “The Arsenio Hall Show.” Clinton’s appeal and charisma could possibly have been the factor that snagged him the Presidential ticket. Even after the Monica Lewinsky scandal, President Clinton was an international “star”, to say the least.
Jessica Joy, a junior at the University of Connecticut says Obama's fanbase is just what this election needs. “Ever since Barack Obama came into the picture, UCONN students have a new interest in politics.” Joy adds, “Who cares if he is considered a celebrity? If that’s what it takes for our generation to become involved in this election, then I definitely embrace it.”
With the current crisis in Iraq, American’s are certainly seeking a larger-than-life leader. Voters are looking for a candidate who projects power, confidence and the ability to rescue a nation in need. It’s clear that Barack Obama has the likability factor. But does he have what it takes to be the next President of the United States?
http://www.newsweek.com/id/157188
http://media.www.oxyweekly.com/media/storage/paper1200/news/2008/09/10/Opinion/Part-Politician.Part.Celebrity.All.American-3422220.shtml?refsource=collegeheadlines
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