Presidential Election

[Sunsetforgotten]

So, I don't know if all of you follow politics, but the GOP has been full of excitement and disappointment (mainly this). Who do you think should win the presidential candidacy? Do you think Obama deserves another shot at being president?

[Kink3bird]

The American Presidential Election is a very elaborate scam to make the population think they have the freedom to elect their leader when in fact the leaders of this country have been decided well before the actual election date.

I proudly am never voting. The real leaders of this country just use the ballots as firewood for their quarterly celebration of another four years the public has been tricked into thinking the President is the true head of state.

[Sunsetforgotten]

Well, I tend to agree with most of this. The people have the tools necessary to take more control on a state-to-state basis, but they are too lazy to pursue the knowledge necessary for change. I think it is important for people to actually keep up on the news, especially dealing with politics to point out the flaws in our system. Americans are basically brainwashed to believe their vote is going to have a huge effect on the future of the country.

[thedeparted]

The GOP is a sea of joke characters, Obama probably should be a 1 term president. But the fact that he's better that the GOP pool he'll most likely win

[hidekipooj]

I voted for Obama last election, but the fact that he signed the NDAA for 2012 has really ticked me off.

I'm not a fan of the WAAAAAAY Uber religious side of the GOP but I do like Ron Paul's stances on internet privatization and the MMJ community. Again..not a fan of his pro-life/religious viewpoints though. It's going to be a tough year for my pick.

[Sunsetforgotten]

I voted for Obama last election, but the fact that he signed the NDAA for 2012 has really ticked me off.

I'm not a fan of the WAAAAAAY Uber religious side of the GOP but I do like Ron Paul's stances on internet privatization and the MMJ community. Again..not a fan of his pro-life/religious viewpoints though. It's going to be a tough year for my pick.

In agreement with all of this. I think Ron Paul is the best, but stands zero chance of victory due to his want to legalize mary jane and his inability to get approval of his republican brethren.

[Jaykub]

Ron Paul or bust

[Synge]

I'm on the same page as the three guys above me. Ron Paul is the only candidate I would approve taking office, our only hope in my opinion.

[Sunsetforgotten]

I got into a debate about politics on this other forum I'm apart of. I mentioned Ron Paul as my choice for presidency and got about 40k negative rep. I don't understand why people think socialism is a solution to the problems in America. Also, why give Obama four more years?

[thedeparted]

2012 Presidential Primary and Caucus Calendar | Race 4 2012 (http://race42012.com/2012-presidential-primary-and-caucus-calendar/)

Tomorrow is the start of it all folks. Iowas having it's caucus. I can't find the latest polls but i think it was Romney with a slight edge over Paul to win Iowa.

[Sunsetforgotten]

Yep Iowa is the start of it all really. Paul supporters have been there since 6 AM trying to get people to stop off and get their vote in. The media is going to downplay Paul all day, so its up to everyone in Iowa to get off their couches and put their votes in.

[Mizel]

Doesn't matter who wins. This election, will be exactly like every other one. Someone will get voted in, mostly by the votes of people that have no idea about politics or even what the individual they voted in stands for- but still vote because they can, or vote based on rumors and opinions of others. The candidate that wins will inevitably do exactly everything that's opposite of what they claimed would happen while campaigning... causing those that voted him in to complain along with the rest of the country that already complaining that their candidate didn't get elected. Those that dont vote complain that their vote does nothing, so why vote?

Basically.... in the end everyone that votes just complains and ends up unhappy. And those that dont vote claim the system is screwed, but never do anything about it to try and change it.

Bottom line, not only are politics complete bs... but the only people that dont complain are those with tons of money. Because really, thats what politics are all about and thats whose really running the country are those individuals with the money.

[thedeparted]

Yeah its a shame money is what changes things or get things done not greatness or great ideas.

[Sunsetforgotten]

Doesn't matter who wins. This election, will be exactly like every other one. Someone will get voted in, mostly by the votes of people that have no idea about politics or even what the individual they voted in stands for- but still vote because they can, or vote based on rumors and opinions of others. The candidate that wins will inevitably do exactly everything that's opposite of what they claimed would happen while campaigning... causing those that voted him in to complain along with the rest of the country that already complaining that their candidate didn't get elected. Those that dont vote complain that their vote does nothing, so why vote?
.

I would agree with you 99.5% of the time. However, the difference in this election is that a true libertarian has a serious chance of winning. Republican and democrat presidents are controller by their parties and have no real chance of making an abrupt change because they will be the black sheep of the party. Having the opportunity to have someone who isn't controller/afraid of the republicans and democrats in congress and the senate has the real chance to make change. This is the only election where I honestly believe American voters can make a change for the future.

[Mizel]

Possibly. But I don’t really think government change comes down to whether the president is libertarian, republican, democratic or anything….. to be honest, I believe the president is just a figure head for the country and is made out to be a lot more powerful and in control of things then he really is. All change goes through Congress before it even gets to the president. So unless every single other greedy rich selfish politician is replaced as well as the president… I don’t see anything being different.

[thedeparted]

Yeah even if we get a great prez the house and senate could and will stifle anything he wants to do cause that seems to be what they do. argue and get nothing done.

[Sunsetforgotten]

Possibly. But I don’t really think government change comes down to whether the president is libertarian, republican, democratic or anything….. to be honest, I believe the president is just a figure head for the country and is made out to be a lot more powerful and in control of things then he really is. All change goes through Congress before it even gets to the president. So unless every single other greedy rich selfish politician is replaced as well as the president… I don’t see anything being different.

Fortunately, a new law was passed that changed the procedure of a president who was vetoed by congress or the senate. The president can represent two-thirds of the vote if whatever was vetoed has been knocked back on three occasions. The purpose of this lies in the fact that the president would likely not pursue a bill further to the media blowing up on how a bill was vetoed and he/she would essentially lose support within the house. Not only that, but if Obama was able to get as much support as he did on a debt ceiling bill, I think Paul could find a way to pass bills eliminating govt depts. However, Ron Paul strikes me as the kind of person who would pursue such bill passing due to his passion for his methods. I could really see him finding a way to convince them that eliminating five depts. would be a healthy change for America, as well.

[Trunks]

I got into a debate about politics on this other forum I'm apart of. I mentioned Ron Paul as my choice for presidency and got about 40k negative rep. I don't understand why people think socialism is a solution to the problems in America. Also, why give Obama four more years?

The reason I dislike Ron Paul is his ideas about foreign affairs. He wants to bring all the soldiers home, and I don't think that is a good idea at all. Sure a lot of them don't need to be out right now, I agree with that, but we do need people over in other countries. Also, his end the fed idea is really ridiculous and dumb. It can't work with the way our economy runs and it can't work with the amount of population that we currently have in the united states.

[thedeparted]

Why do we need bases in other countries?

[Trunks]

We don't necessarily need bases everywhere, but at least US embassy. They help citizens of the U.S. in case they have any trouble with the foreign government as well as hosting U.S. dignitaries.

Some countries do need bases, that's for sure. The middle east are big ones, after what they did to our country and the state they are currently in, they need a helping hand. The Al Qieda could easily take over and the same war would happen all over again. Not to mention half the world hates us, bases provide us self defense and multiple ways into or out of wars if needed.

Most of the bases we currently have were agreements in treaties after war, such as Germany and japan. Those are the bases we wouldn't needed anymore. There government and armies are built back up that they can protect them self now.

[thedeparted]

Iowa Caucus Results 2012: Live Updates From The Hawkeye State (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/03/iowa-caucus-results-2012_n_1179079.html)

Reports are starting to come in.

For history sake, here is the 2008 results.



day of the caucuses.
2008 Caucus Results
Candidate Vote Percent
Mike Huckabee 40,841 34.4%
Mitt Romney 29,949 25.2%
Fred Thompson 15,904 13.4%
John McCain 15,559 13.1%
Ron Paul 11,817 10.0%
Rudy Giuliani 4,097 3.5%
Others 529 0.4%



It's funny how McCain was 4th in Iowa and ended up winning the Nomination in the end

[LiNuX]

Huckabee ftw! Can't say that guy's name without smiling.

[thedeparted]

Nearly half reported now




CANDIDATE VOTES PCT. DEL.
Rick Santorum 13,594 24.5% 0
Mitt Romney 13,204 23.8% 0
Ron Paul 12,205 22.0% 0
Newt Gingrich 7,426 13.4% 0
Rick Perry 5,671 10.2% 0
Michele Bachmann 3,140 5.6% 0
Jon Huntsman 313 0.6% 0
Herman Cain 23 0% 0
Buddy Roemer 9 0% 0



Close up at the top atm

[Kenoi]

yeah isn't Huckabee gone? I heard he went out cause ..... well I don't know what happened.

[thedeparted]

Iowa Republican Caucuses - Election 2012 - NYTimes.com (http://elections.nytimes.com/2012/primaries/states/iowa)

county breakdown

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3TSxm2V8aVQ&feature=player_embedded

Some bs censorship

[Jaykub]

Iowa Caucus Results 2012: Live Updates From The Hawkeye State (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/03/iowa-caucus-results-2012_n_1179079.html)

Reports are starting to come in.

For history sake, here is the 2008 results.



day of the caucuses.
2008 Caucus Results
Candidate Vote Percent
Mike Huckabee 40,841 34.4%
Mitt Romney 29,949 25.2%
Fred Thompson 15,904 13.4%
John McCain 15,559 13.1%
Ron Paul 11,817 10.0%
Rudy Giuliani 4,097 3.5%
Others 529 0.4%



It's funny how McCain was 4th in Iowa and ended up winning the Nomination in the end

Perfect proof Iowa doesn't mean a damn thing anymore,

[Mizel]

We don't necessarily need bases everywhere, but at least US embassy. They help citizens of the U.S. in case they have any trouble with the foreign government as well as hosting U.S. dignitaries.

Some countries do need bases, that's for sure. The middle east are big ones, after what they did to our country and the state they are currently in, they need a helping hand. The Al Qieda could easily take over and the same war would happen all over again. Not to mention half the world hates us, bases provide us self defense and multiple ways into or out of wars if needed.

Most of the bases we currently have were agreements in treaties after war, such as Germany and japan. Those are the bases we wouldn't needed anymore. There government and armies are built back up that they can protect them self now.



Lol Why do you think half the world hates us?... Because we go and put bases into their countries so that we can “help” them, aka run things the way WE think they should be run. Saying these countries need a helping hand is just a sad excuse that Im surprised people actually believe for us to get in there and take control. Really, it’s none of our business. Going in and invading an entire country over what a few crazy people did? Nah, I cant justify that.

[paecmaker]

Some countries do need bases, that's for sure. The middle east are big ones, after what they did to our country and the state they are currently in, they need a helping hand. The Al Qieda could easily take over and the same war would happen all over again. Not to mention half the world hates us, bases provide us self defense and multiple ways into or out of wars if needed.

Most of the bases we currently have were agreements in treaties after war, such as Germany and japan. Those are the bases we wouldn't needed anymore. There government and armies are built back up that they can protect them self now.

Whatever the reasons you have bases in other countries, even if they are good reasons and you want to help the people the people will never think like that. To most civilians its just another occupation force that wants to control them.

[thedeparted]

All i know is if some other country say china or russia did the same americans would be up in arms. So i dont see why we think its ok. I think its arrogance





CANDIDATE VOTES PCT. DEL.
Mitt Romney 30,015 24.6% 7
Rick Santorum 30,007 24.6% 6
Ron Paul 26,219 21.5% 0
Newt Gingrich 16,251 13.3% 0
Rick Perry 12,604 10.3% 0
Michele Bachmann 6,073 5.0% 0
Jon Huntsman 745 0.6% 0
Herman Cain 58 0% 0
Buddy Roemer 31 0% 0

[Mizel]

Whatever the reasons you have bases in other countries, even if they are good reasons and you want to help the people the people will never think like that. To most civilians its just another occupation force that wants to control them.


All i know is if some other country say china or russia did the same americans would be up in arms. So i dont see why we think its ok. I think its arrogance

Yupp, I totally agree 100%.

[Trunks]

Lol Why do you think half the world hates us?... Because we go and put bases into their countries so that we can “help” them, aka run things the way WE think they should be run. Saying these countries need a helping hand is just a sad excuse that Im surprised people actually believe for us to get in there and take control. Really, it’s none of our business. Going in and invading an entire country over what a few crazy people did? Nah, I cant justify that.

After 9/11 I think we were justified to go over and stop the crazy people, I don't agree with invading Iraq was right. But that is more on bush. Also were invading countries that not just have crazy people, but they have crazy people running there country. It may not be right for us to step in, but it sure makes me feel safer along with many other people. I think you'd be surprised by how much the majority of the citizens are thankful that we helped. They were being forced to fight a war that most of them didn't want and kids were being taken from their families. If that was happening in America I wOuld want someone to come help us too. that was all happening before, it's obviously over with now, but if we just got up and left their country in pieces the same thing would happen all over agaIn. We have to help them rebuild we, to finish what w started.



You also have to remember that the majority of our bases are there from treaty's we didn't force our way into those.

[Mizel]

After 9/11 I think we were justified to go over and stop the crazy people, I don't agree with invading Iraq was right. But that is more on bush. Also were invading countries that not just have crazy people, but they have crazy people running there country. It may not be right for us to step in, but it sure makes me feel safer along with many other people. I think you'd be surprised by how much the majority of the citizens are thankful that we helped. They were being forced to fight a war that most of them didn't want and kids were being taken from their families. If that was happening in America I wOuld want someone to come help us too. that was all happening before, it's obviously over with now, but if we just got up and left their country in pieces the same thing would happen all over agaIn. We have to help them rebuild we, to finish what w started.



You also have to remember that the majority of our bases are there from treaty's we didn't force our way into those.

Yea, I still don’t think 9/11 was cause enough for us to go over and invade the whole country. I also don’t think that anyone appointed the US as babysitter of the entire planet. It’s not our business or our place to say how other countries should be run. Yes, it sucks that some countries are run by horrible people. When they are sick of it, they will either leave or overthrow the gov’t. That’s how it’s always worked. Look at Egypt, perfect example. Not only are they attempting to overthrow the gov’t, but they also told the US to eff off. Because mainly its really not our business, and secondly they knew we’d try to get in there the second we caught wind of what was going on and show them how we think they should run things which would defeat the purpose of everything they were fighting for.

If the US had genuine concern, I wouldn’t even try to argue. But why we went into Iraq (or any other country for that matter) was not concern for the people or even a desire to help. It was vengeance and hurt pride. Funny that there are lots of other countries that needed our help a whole lot more then Iraq, but that’s the country we decided to invade, er I mean help, above all others? And we just decided after all this time that we wanted to “help” them right after the 9/11 attacks? No way. If that were the case we would have tried to help them a long time ago. The US doesn’t “help” anyone or do anything that wont benefit it.

Plus saying “they were being forced to fight a war that most of them didn't want and kids were being taken from their families.” Kind of reminds me of the US troops, being forced to fight in a pointless war that did not benefit us in any way shape or form…...or saying “If that was happening in America I would want someone to come help us too.” Civil war? Same thing did happen here. If I recall, I don’t think we had any other country step in to “help” us.

My point is that the US isn’t trying to help anybody. Our main concern is not only bullying everyone into doing what we think is right, but also (and sadly I may add) trying to prove that we are the biggest most badass country. Americuh, eff yea. >_< Unfortunately, it’s having the opposite effect and every other country hates us, with good reason. With all of the scary things out there today, and the kind of threats we face (Korea for example), we should be concentrating on making friends, not enemies.

[Sunsetforgotten]

Yea, I still don’t think 9/11 was cause enough for us to go over and invade the whole country. I also don’t think that anyone appointed the US as babysitter of the entire planet. It’s not our business or our place to say how other countries should be run. Yes, it sucks that some countries are run by horrible people.

The war in Iraq was a war for oil, simply put. The amount of money we wasted in occupying a stretch of land under the pretense of stopping the spread of terrorism is awful.

[Mizel]

The war in Iraq was a war for oil, simply put. The amount of money we wasted in occupying a stretch of land under the pretense of stopping the spread of terrorism is awful.

That’s actually something I hadn’t even thought of when thinking about this situation. I mean, besides all of the lives lost over nothing, and everything else horribly wrong with this war…. the amount of money wasted is mind boggling. That’s money that could have been spent on dozens of other things including bettering this country.

[Trunks]

Yea, I still don’t think 9/11 was cause enough for us to go over and invade the whole country. I also don’t think that anyone appointed the US as babysitter of the entire planet. It’s not our business or our place to say how other countries should be run. Yes, it sucks that some countries are run by horrible people. When they are sick of it, they will either leave or overthrow the gov’t. That’s how it’s always worked. Look at Egypt, perfect example. Not only are they attempting to overthrow the gov’t, but they also told the US to eff off. Because mainly its really not our business, and secondly they knew we’d try to get in there the second we caught wind of what was going on and show them how we think they should run things which would defeat the purpose of everything they were fighting for.

If the US had genuine concern, I wouldn’t even try to argue. But why we went into Iraq (or any other country for that matter) was not concern for the people or even a desire to help. It was vengeance and hurt pride. Funny that there are lots of other countries that needed our help a whole lot more then Iraq, but that’s the country we decided to invade, er I mean help, above all others? And we just decided after all this time that we wanted to “help” them right after the 9/11 attacks? No way. If that were the case we would have tried to help them a long time ago. The US doesn’t “help” anyone or do anything that wont benefit it.

Plus saying “they were being forced to fight a war that most of them didn't want and kids were being taken from their families.” Kind of reminds me of the US troops, being forced to fight in a pointless war that did not benefit us in any way shape or form…...or saying “If that was happening in America I would want someone to come help us too.” Civil war? Same thing did happen here. If I recall, I don’t think we had any other country step in to “help” us.

My point is that the US isn’t trying to help anybody. Our main concern is not only bullying everyone into doing what we think is right, but also (and sadly I may add) trying to prove that we are the biggest most badass country. Americuh, eff yea. >_< Unfortunately, it’s having the opposite effect and every other country hates us, with good reason. With all of the scary things out there today, and the kind of threats we face (Korea for example), we should be concentrating on making friends, not enemies.

Like I said I agree that Iraq was pointless and I didn't agree with it, but 9/11 gave us plenty of reason to invade Afghanistan. That was an attack against our country organized by, at the time the leaders of Afghanistan. I could never agree with you that we shouldn't have done something about that.

US troops being forced to fight in the war is different then what they are doing to the kids in other countries. They forcefully take them from there homes, kids just 12 or 13 years old. That's not even comparable to the US draft. Same with the civil war, the 1800's were a completely different time. Back then countries stood in single file lines across from each other and shot. There were also no airplanes or anyway for other countries really to help. Also, France and Britain did help during the civil war lol. They sent supply's and arms to the confederates during the beginning of the war. When the US stopped one of there ships and held it from going back to port. Britain and France sent troops to the border of Canada and threatened war against the US. Once we released there ship, they stopped sending supplies to the confederates.

Sadly, that's true, the US only cares about there self and only engages the enemy if there is profit. I still think people of Iraq needed our help, we may have went in there for the wrong reason, but at least we stopped the wrongs that were happening.

About Korea, I'm wondering how America is going to stand with them now that king jong il has died.

[paecmaker]

Like I said I agree that Iraq was pointless and I didn't agree with it, but 9/11 gave us plenty of reason to invade Afghanistan. That was an attack against our country organized by, at the time the leaders of Afghanistan. I could never agree with you that we shouldn't have done something about that.




You mean the exact same people CIA was arming in the 80s(aka the talibans)

And the intations might have been good in Iraq but it all failed the moment Saddam fell, then the police and so on fell also. What happened then is that the US soldiers could not keep control, it was chaos and pillaging everywhere. And now when they leave it will be another power vacuum.

[Trunks]

You mean the exact same people CIA was arming in the 80s(aka the talibans)

And the intations might have been good in Iraq but it all failed the moment Saddam fell, then the police and so on fell also. What happened then is that the US soldiers could not keep control, it was chaos and pillaging everywhere. And now when they leave it will be another power vacuum.

I remember reading that somewhere, but I don't know a lot about it. We were arming them because we were trying to make friends, sadly it didn't work out that way.

I don't think we should have left Iraq yet, but obama did it because it was one of his campaign promises and reelection is coming up soon, so he had to fulfill it to have a change to win again, or so he thought at least.

[paecmaker]

I remember reading that somewhere, but I don't know a lot about it. We were arming them because we were trying to make friends, sadly it didn't work out that way.

I don't think we should have left Iraq yet, but obama did it because it was one of his campaign promises and reelection is coming up soon, so he had to fulfill it to have a change to win again, or so he thought at least.

the best way to win the war in Afghanistan(and possibly Iraq)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BxuPJy2mlc&feature=related

on topic,

Of the republican candidates was there anyone that think usa should invade Iran?

[Trunks]

the best way to win the war in Afghanistan(and possibly Iraq)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BxuPJy2mlc&feature=related

on topic,

Of the republican candidates was there anyone that think usa should invade Iran?

The Taliban weren't complaining when we were training them and give them weapons.

[paecmaker]

The Taliban weren't complaining when we were training them and give them weapons.

Nope, mostly because they were fighting the soviets.

[Sunsetforgotten]

That’s actually something I hadn’t even thought of when thinking about this situation. I mean, besides all of the lives lost over nothing, and everything else horribly wrong with this war…. the amount of money wasted is mind boggling. That’s money that could have been spent on dozens of other things including bettering this country.

Not only that, but count the lives lost as well. War is not always a necessary means to solve conflict (obviously). Also, I want to thank everyone for being mature about this topic. No one has trolled anything as of yet, and I really appreciate the contributions to the thread.

Also, Ron Paul came in third in Iowa... Talk about disappointment. Santorum has given no money to his campaign yet reigned in votes left and right. Can't believe only 8 votes separated him and Romney.

[Sunsetforgotten]

PressTV - 'US deploys troops in Israel for Iran war'
(http://www.presstv.ir/detail/219346.html)

Also, not trying to push my ideals down anyone's throat, but this is why we need Romney or Paul in office. Another war, really?

[paecmaker]

If that is right then we just trade on war for another, I didnt think there was enough money fo this.

[Sunsetforgotten]

If that is right then we just trade on war for another, I didnt think there was enough money fo this.


I'm pretty sure this is legit due to the fact that Obama met with Tel Aviv two weeks ago. Or whenever it was.

[paecmaker]

I'm pretty sure this is legit due to the fact that Obama met with Tel Aviv two weeks ago. Or whenever it was.

Even if I dont think Iran are the land of saints or something I dont support this.

And thinking that Obama won the Nobel peace price.....

[thedeparted]

PressTV - 'US deploys troops in Israel for Iran war'
(http://www.presstv.ir/detail/219346.html)

Also, not trying to push my ideals down anyone's throat, but this is why we need Romney or Paul in office. Another war, really?

If we really get into a war with Iran that will be so stupid.

[Sunsetforgotten]

If we get into a war with Iran, what will Russia do? This is a serious threat for a global war. We need to worry about getting oil in America and stop intruding onto other countries for it. We have more than enough reserves here for it.

[thedeparted]

We need to stop being the world's nanny

[Mizel]

If we get into a war with Iran, what will Russia do? This is a serious threat for a global war. We need to worry about getting oil in America and stop intruding onto other countries for it. We have more than enough reserves here for it.

Lol But we wanna use up everyone else’s resources first! >_<

[thedeparted]

We'd rather use up all the oil then worry about changing how we live instead of changing how we live and getting away from oil

[paecmaker]

If we get into a war with Iran, what will Russia do? This is a serious threat for a global war. We need to worry about getting oil in America and stop intruding onto other countries for it. We have more than enough reserves here for it.

Russia didnt do anything when Iraq was invaded, and even if Russia wont like it they certanly want to avoid a war with USA, also they have enough problems now.

[thedeparted]

Russia will want to avoid the war, but they will go out of their way to say they are really tough and shouldn't be messed with. That's how they are in this day and age lol

[paecmaker]

Russia will want to avoid the war, but they will go out of their way to say they are really tough and shouldn't be messed with. That's how they are in this day and age lol

first thing first, they have a really angry population now and they would probably want to change that before go into another war.

[Sunsetforgotten]

Russia didnt do anything when Iraq was invaded, and even if Russia wont like it they certanly want to avoid a war with USA, also they have enough problems now.

The problem is is that Russia has greater ties with Iran than Iraq. It is more of diplomatic standoff than a war situation. We need to remember that we are in debt, and greatly at that. We need to start thinking global economy instead of "Me me me me me". We need to gain allies in this time.

[thedeparted]

We could pretty comfortably lower our national debt to reasonable levels in 15-20 years if politicians weren't twits and twats and fighting for political stances rather than fighting for the good of this country and its future

[Sunsetforgotten]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhDhDRvHaGs&feature=related

If he gave speeches like these, I would vote for him

[CraeSC111]

Politicians don't care about the country. They care about power and keeping their jobs. And nowadays the only way to get into politics is to have money and influence

[thedeparted]

New Hampshire is today. I think reports were that Romney was the favorite

[Trunks]

Yeah, Romney easily has New Hampshire

[Sunsetforgotten]

Romney has a huge lead, but another second place for paul. Romney and Paul both hold higher percentages over Obama currently, so its likely Republicans will have something to celebrate this election.

[thedeparted]

Not many conservatives for Santorum in NH eh. Jon Huntsman doing much better in NH

[Sunsetforgotten]

Paul will probably get 25-26 percent, which is a huge win. Romney was going to win regardless, but this is more of a victory for Paul I would say. If he wins SC, this is going to become an interesting race.

[Trunks]

I still don't see paul getting close to winning. Even if he some how wins the primary, there is no way he's going to win against obama. Romney has the best shot against Obama.

[Sunsetforgotten]

Paul's approval is already higher against Obama as far as percentages go across the US. He holds a 5% lead over Obama. The problem really lies in SC and Florida. If Romney takes Florida hard he might want to join in with Romney as his VP. If not, Rand will likely run and win an election before 2024. This election is showing the change in ideals in the american people, and rand can run with it.

[BangMy Octopuss]

Ron Paul, or Romeny.

Cause we do not need another 4 years of Obama.

[thedeparted]

Candidates Vote % Votes Delegates

Mitt
Romney

39% 97,532 7

Ron
Paul

23% 56,848 3

Jon
Huntsman

17% 41,945 2

Newt
Gingrich

10% 23,411 0

Rick
Santorum

10% 23,362 0

Rick
Perry

1% 1,766 0

Michele
Bachmann

0% 349 0




So after 2 states the Delegate count is

Romney 20
Santorum 12
Paul 3
Huntsman 2

1144 is the magic number

South Carolina Primary is on the 21st

[Sunsetforgotten]

SC is huge

[Trunks]

Paul's approval is already higher against Obama as far as percentages go across the US. He holds a 5% lead over Obama.

says who? Surveys? Those aren't accurate at all.

[thedeparted]

btdubbs there is 25 delegates at stake for SC




Eleven delegates will be awarded for the statewide winner and two additional delegates will be awarded to the winner of each of the seven congressional districts.[10]



Will be how they are handed out.

[Sunsetforgotten]

says who? Surveys? Those aren't accurate at all.

CBS Poll: Romney Leads Obama - Mitt Romney - Fox Nation (http://nation.foxnews.com/mitt-romney/2012/01/09/cbs-poll-romney-leads-obama)

Obama gained fuel since last I checked, but Romney still holds a dominant lead and the GOP has a ways to go to gain fuel over him like he did prior to NH

[Trunks]

Fox is most a republic channel, a lot of there cast are all republics, so more republics watch fox and visit there website to vote on polls, there for, the polls can be misleading as most are.

That's the same site that said McCain was going to win the election. That obviously was false by a pretty decent amount.

My point is you really can't let polls say who is winning what, you have to go by the votes at elections.

[Sunsetforgotten]

Fox is most a republic channel, a lot of there cast are all republics, so more republics watch fox and visit there website to vote on polls there go the polls as most are can be misleading.

That's the same site that said McCain was going to win the election. That obviously was false my a pretty decent amount.

My point is you really can't let polls say who is winning what, you have to go by the votes at elections.


Well I see what you mean, but thats how you get a general direction of the peoples feeling towards candidates. Obamas approval rating is down, and Romney and Paul are making attacks against obamacare and the NDAA. I'd believe it

[thedeparted]

Jon Huntsman is quitting now as well.

[Sunsetforgotten]

and supporting romney. smh

[thedeparted]

Colbert cant get on the ballot for SC so he's telling people to vote Herman Cain lol

http://i.minus.com/imcN5spKu7NoN.gif

[Trunks]

Lol, I forget what it was, but there was a write in vote for something, and Colbert told everyone to write in some persons name and so many people were doing it that they had to do a revote and take out the write in option.

[Sunsetforgotten]

Christopher Walken haha. I did it.

[thedeparted]

Rick Perry is bowing out and endorsing Newt

also,




A CNN/Time South Carolina poll released Wednesday showed Gingrich in second place with support from 23 percent of likely primary voters, having gained 5 percentage points in the past two weeks. Romney led in the poll with 33 percent, but he had slipped some since the last survey. Santorum was third, narrowly ahead of Texas Rep. Ron Paul and well ahead of Perry.

[Mizel]

Vermin Supreme.... nuff said ;)

[foof]

foof for president. 2016.

[paecmaker]

Paec to president, Free pizzas tp EVERYONE!!!!!!

[egg-whites333]

i vote peace and im not even 18 :P

[Sunsetforgotten]

Christopher Walken for President. Hes the next best thing

[thedeparted]

Newt won SC. It seems he picked up Perry and Huntsman


Results for South Carolina Republican Primary (U.S. Presidential Primary)
Jan 21, 2012 (86% of precincts reporting)
Newt Gingrich 202,320 40.4%
Mitt Romney 135,397 27.1%
Rick Santorum 86,905 17.4%
Ron Paul 66,991 13.4%
Rick Perry 2,147 0.4%
Other 6,590 1.3%




Already, there has been some question into folks who cast their ballots on Saturday.

South Carolina's Attorney General, Alan Wilson has notified the U.S. Justice Department of potential voter fraud.

Wilson says an analysis found 953 ballots cast by voters were people who are listed as dead.

He has asked the State Law Enforcement Division to investigate.



lol

Also Newt in the delegate lead now over Romney 23 to 19

[Sunsetforgotten]

Newt won SC. It seems he picked up Perry and Huntsman


Results for South Carolina Republican Primary (U.S. Presidential Primary)
Jan 21, 2012 (86% of precincts reporting)
Newt Gingrich 202,320 40.4%
Mitt Romney 135,397 27.1%
Rick Santorum 86,905 17.4%
Ron Paul 66,991 13.4%
Rick Perry 2,147 0.4%
Other 6,590 1.3%




lol

Also Newt in the delegate lead now over Romney 23 to 19

So I'm loading up my funds for Canada. America is disappoint. Who is down?

[thedeparted]

I just can't Paul winning, Romney got a solid backing and Perry/Huntmans supporters seem to be leening towards Gingrich atm. Florida is in 10 days.

[Sunsetforgotten]

I just can't Paul winning, Romney got a solid backing and Perry/Huntmans supporters seem to be leening towards Gingrich atm. Florida is in 10 days.

Paul isn't putting any money into Florida. Him polling so low in SC basically ruined his campaign. Poor fella. He is not long for this world, either.

[Trunks]

Paul was done from the start, his foreign and education policy were to bizarre.

I called Romney from the start still think he's got the primary votes.

[thedeparted]

I was just reading on GAF both Santorum and Newt are inelgible in enough states to miss 500+ delegates. This race will be interesting

[Sunsetforgotten]

If Newt wins, GOP shoots itself in the foot. He can't beat Obama, but i guess its pending his VP also.

[thedeparted]

I wonder what the chances of winning are being out on 25% of the delegates. That's kinda stupid imo that if you didn't raise enough money or get enough signatures for a certain state you can't be on the ballot.

Republican Delegate Count - Election 2012 - NYTimes.com (http://elections.nytimes.com/2012/primaries/delegates)

Edit: Romney took 31% last time in Florida, so this could be his state

Florida Primary Election Results - Election Guide 2008 - Results - The New York Times (http://politics.nytimes.com/election-guide/2008/results/states/FL.html)

[CraeSC111]

Well only wealthier people can really run an election. I don't think we have actually had anyone who wasn't wealthy as president for quite some time

[thedeparted]

Well yeah its all a money and power game, but yeah i guess wasted rants as it'll never change

[Sunsetforgotten]

I think thats the problem with the election process anyways. It becomes a scramble for who can acquire the most cash and loopholes in the media instead of who is best for the job. Imagine how many potential presidential candidates are sitting on their couches watching these government officials bickering like school girls and knowing the solution to a majority of our problems. Money runs the world... smh.

[CraeSC111]

I see more sense in a lot of everyday people than in politicians who have probably not gotten a chance to live real lives

[Trunks]

Almost 100 percent of the money used in elections are all donated. Rarely do they ever use there own money when they run. So you really don't have to be rich, it just happens to be that all politicians are rich.

[Sunsetforgotten]

Well that is after the campaign has started up. Start up costs for a campaign range from 1-2 million. But yeah all the politicians are making bank for working three days a week.

[CraeSC111]

You still have to organize fundraisers and get connections within your party, usually through conferences and fundraisers you'd need money or connections to get into. I have a friend who is a pretty active Democrat. She and one of her friends go to a bunch of rallies and conferences (funded by her parents). Her family donates to the Democrat party. She's popular among the Democrats and has been offered internships and various jobs. Her friend has not. And I think her friend is more interested in politics.

[Trunks]

Everyone here that tonight Obama is going to release the details of a plan during the Statue of the Union Address that will help boosting the economy and strengthening the middle class. All the money needed for the plan is said to come from the top 1% of the tax payers which would be the rich. Kind of interested in what it's going to be, or if congress will even let him pass the bill.

[CraeSC111]

I would call that redistribution of wealth.

[thedeparted]

Everyone here that tonight Obama is going to release the details of a plan during the Statue of the Union Address that will help boosting the economy and strengthening the middle class. All the money needed for the plan is said to come from the top 1% of the tax payers which would be the rich. Kind of interested in what it's going to be, or if congress will even let him pass the bill.

Considering the House is Replubican majority, i don't see how

[Sunsetforgotten]

I honestly don't even believe the lies coming from the Presidents dating back to the end of Bush Sr. All we hear is about what they want to do, and how the House will not allow them to do what is necessary. Presidents used to get things done regardless of the checks and balances system because they worked systematic theorems into the economy. Obama, Bush, and Clinton did nothing but go back on multiple promises. Republicans and Democrats are all the same now :(

[thedeparted]

The race for the Republican presidential nomination is about to blast off into outer space: Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich announced that, if elected, he'd establish a colony on the moon by 2020.

In a speech to supporters on the Florida space coast, Gingrich called for a "grandiose" effort to colonize space. "It's the second great launch of the adventure John F. Kennedy started," said Gingrich.

Gingrich opened up the possibility of the moon becoming the 51st state, something he believes could happen once a permanent settlement reaches a population of 13,000 Americans. While a 1967 United Nations document says that no one country can claim sovereignty over the moon, the U.S., Russia, and China failed to sign a more recent U.N. treaty to settle the question of who owns the moon.

The bold move hopes to boost the former speaker's presidential campaign in the Sunshine State, where space exploration remains a big industry. Florida will hold its GOP presidential primary vote on Tuesday, January 31. Polls show the race is close.



Nice try to get votes, but it's not even remotely possible to do it that fast.

[Sunsetforgotten]

Another space race would cause massive havoc around the world. You know Russia and China would want a piece of the moon before we did. Also, we don't even have the funds to get out of debt and the space program has been cancelled already. Where is this money coming from?

[thedeparted]

Wishful thinking would be cancell every bs earmark and give Nasa the money. But that's not going to happen any time soon. So in real life it'll just be print money baby print

[Trunks]

Who gives a sh*t about the moon, there isn't anything up there, let them have it.

[thedeparted]

The moon could be a great launching point for future space exploration. Launching from the moon instead of fight earths gravity could lead to new space discoveries. Also Imagine if we could get a giant telescope on the moon.

[CraeSC111]

Obama killed the space program.

[thedeparted]

Things can be brought back to life in re-animation form

[Sunsetforgotten]

Things can be brought back to life in re-animation form

http://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/reanimator.jpg

[thedeparted]

XD, also Newt in full desperation mode. Going with the best possible candidate to beat Obama .

[Sunsetforgotten]

Hahaha sad to say GOP is done. They ruined each other in the scramble to get the candidacy.

[CraeSC111]

Yeah my family and I have already noticed how the GOP candidates defeated themselves for Obama. Really sad

[thedeparted]

the lastest rasmussen has it going

Romney 44%
Ginrichs 28%
Santorum 12%
Paul 10%

The winner of Florida gets all 50 delegates

[Sunsetforgotten]

Poor Paul. You stood no chance.
:(

[thedeparted]

He still could run as an independent but that aint going to help either. He got little cred outside the internet fanboyism





Jan 31, 2012 (49% of precincts reporting)
Mitt Romney 555,893 47.5%
Newt Gingrich 366,050 31.3%
Rick Santorum 151,911 13%
Ron Paul 80,714 6.9%
Other 16,635 1.4%


Ron doing worse than Rasmussen estimated.

So the delegate count is now

Romney - 71
Ginrich - 23
Santorum - 13
Paul - 3
Huntsman 2

There will be 52 up for grabs on the 4th

[thedeparted]

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Roseanne Barr said Thursday she's running for the Green Party's presidential nomination - and it's no joke.

The actress-comedian said in a statement that she's a longtime supporter of the party and looks forward to working with people who share her values. She said the two major parties aren't serving the American people.

"The Democrats and Republicans have proven that they are servants -- bought and paid for by the 1% -- who are not doing what's in the best interest of the American people," Barr said.

Occupy Wall Street protesters popularized the "We are the 99 percent" slogan in their fight against economic disparity and perceived corporate greed.

Barr has submitted paperwork to the Green Party for her candidacy. The party's presidential nominee will be selected at a convention in Baltimore in July.

Barr said she has been fighting for working-class families and women for decades.

"I will barnstorm American living rooms," she said in a candidate questionnaire submitted to the Green Party. "Mainstream media will be unable to ignore me, but more importantly they will be unable to overlook the needs of average Americans in the run-up to the 2012 election."

Barr's hit TV sitcom "Roseanne" aired from 1988 to 1997 and earned her an Emmy and a Golden Globe. She played a wise-cracking mom in the comedy about a blue-collar family. Barr has a 46-acre macadamia nut farm in Hawaii.


Roseanne Barr running for the Green Party :laugh1:

[thedeparted]

Nevada was yesterday for those that missed it, Romney won the vote and the delegate allocation is as of the following as of this moment for Nevada

Romney 10
Ginrinch 4
Paul 3
Santorum 2

[Trunks]

Looks like Romney is taking over

[thedeparted]

I forgot to state 9 delegates are still up for grabs in Nevada and yes Romney is driving this ship. Santorum/Romney are running out of time seeing they wont be eligible for 500 delegates and Paul is lagging behind. Super Tuesday should be interesting but it'll probably just be the clincher for Romney

[CraeSC111]

I think Romney is too moderate to get the big votes from the right and the left will probably still vote for Obama. Romney will probably lose the presidential election

[Trunks]

Yep, that's what I said from the start. IMO Romney has the best chance though.

[Sunsetforgotten]

I think Romney has the worst chance actually, given his beliefs on the lower class. You cannot disregard a social class and expect to get any votes. The entire midwest will disregard Romney due to his ridiculous comments about the poor. Smh GOP, smh

[thedeparted]

Update

A new Public Policy Polling (PPP) poll out today shows the potential for a big Santorum night in Minnesota and Missouri. Report from PPP:

Rick Santorum could be headed for a big day in today's contests in Colorado, Minnesota, and Missouri. Missouri looks like a probable win for Santorum. He's at 45% there to 32% for Mitt Romney and 19% for Paul. Minnesota provides an opportunity for a win as well. Currently he has a small advantage with 33% to 24% for Romney, 22% for Newt Gingrich, and 20% for Ron Paul. And Santorum should get a second place finish in Colorado, where Romney appears to be the likely winner. The standings there are Romney at 37%, Santorum at 27%, Gingrich at 21%, and Paul at 13%.

Santorum's personal popularity is the main reason for his sudden reemergence as a relevant player in the GOP race. In all 3 of these states his favorability is over 70%- 74/17 in Minnesota, 72/17 in Missouri, and 71/19 in Colorado. He's far better liked than his main opponents- Romney's favorability is 47-60% in those states and Gingrich's is 47-48%. While Romney and Gingrich have hammered each other in recents weeks Santorum's been largely left alone and he's benefiting from that now.

Unfortunately for Santorum, a win in Missouri won't count for delegates but a win in Minnesota would greatly help his momentum in building a case for his candidacy. If Santorum wins at least one state tonight, coupled with his Iowa win, he will become the candidate just behind Romney in terms of primary/caucus victories.



Seems like Santorum might gain some momentum and get to #2 atm

[Trunks]

I think Romney has the worst chance actually, given his beliefs on the lower class. You cannot disregard a social class and expect to get any votes. The entire midwest will disregard Romney due to his ridiculous comments about the poor. Smh GOP, smh

Are you talking about his speech where he said "I don't care about the poor, I'm more worried about the working class"

Because he is correct there, the working class are getting screwed over the most. The poor are getting help by the government, but the working class or middle class are not getting any help and still have horrible jobs.

[thedeparted]

The working/middle class is disappearing with every dollar the 1% hoard and with every job the 1% cuts to increase already large profit margin or ships overseas

[CraeSC111]

Welcome to capitalism. Profit is where its at

[Trunks]

I would call what we have now capitalism, not even close.

[thedeparted]

We're heading towards a dark ages class where the rich are all power and the poor have no choice but to stay poor.

[thedeparted]

Yesterday Santorum won all 3 states. Mizz aren't doing there delegates to later. In Colorado he 15, Romney 6 and 15 are still not handed out. In Minnesota Santorum got all 37. The count is now. btdubs Ginrich wasn't on Mizzu ballot

Romney 91
Santorum 68
Ginrich 29
Ron Paul 9

[Sunsetforgotten]

Are you talking about his speech where he said "I don't care about the poor, I'm more worried about the working class"

Because he is correct there, the working class are getting screwed over the most. The poor are getting help by the government, but the working class or middle class are not getting any help and still have horrible jobs.


The problem is, people look at that as "ROMNEY IS A RACIST!". American mindset, smh

[thedeparted]

Don't forget him being a Mormon does him no favors.



In 2011, Santorum raised $2.2 million for his campaign, according to year-end filings. Romney raised $56.8 million.



wow

[thedeparted]

President Obama once said he wants everyone in America to go to college. What a snob . There are good decent men and women who go out and work hard every day and put their skills to test that aren't taught by some liberal college professor, and try to indoctrinate them . Oh I understand why he wants to you to go to college. He wants to remake you in his image. I want to create jobs so people can remake their children into their image, not his.



What he is saying is true, there is many good men and women out there working without a degree, but being so anti-college and attacking Obama on such an issue and how he said furthers him as a joke character

[paecmaker]

What he is saying is true, there is many good men and women out there working without a degree, but being so anti-college and attacking Obama on such an issue and how he said furthers him as a joke character

Sadly many jobs demands college or similar things and or a few years experience today. Its not easy getting a job without college degree or experience :(.

So many start studying instead but its so effin expensive that either they cant afford it or they owe the bank money for many years ahead.

[thedeparted]

That's why we need a education reform. The college bubble is going to pop. It's not sustainable.

[Trunks]

Times are different then they were before. 30 years ago, you could drop out of high school and still do decent in life. standards are always going to rise, plus the fact that labor jobs are decreasing you need an education to be in 90% of the jobs now.

[Sunsetforgotten]

Well Michigan primary is tomorrow. Had a couple of rallies here in my home state, but Romney or Santorum have this state on lockdown. I hate to say it, but it is looking as if Obama will have another 4 years handed to him on a platter. Hopefully we keep our troops out of Isreal and let Iran do what they have to. Really seeing the possibility of another massive war on the horizon

[thedeparted]

Anyone read santorum comments on how Kennedy speech saying church and state should stay as far away from each other made him sick.

[thedeparted]

Who's Ahead - Huffington Post 2012 Election Dashboard (http://elections.huffingtonpost.com/)

Interesting to see how many more fb likes Ron Paul got vs. Santorum and Newt and funding and yet he is 4th.

btdubs Romney won michigan 2008

Edit: Arizona is tonight as well, has a big mormon population. Romney is mormon..

edit2: It seems Romney was called Arizona winner already. 29 delegates to him. It also seems Romney might get 3 pt victory in Michigan i reckon

[thedeparted]

Romney killed it in Washington, Got 30 delegates. Santorum and Paul got 5. 3 remain unallocated. Super Tuesday is tomorrow. This could mean the end pretty much for the race is Romney takes a lot of the delegates. Something like 456 delegates are up tomorrow

[Sunsetforgotten]

Romney winning the candidacy basically gives Obama the win, as I said before. Dude is obama v2.0 however. Notice gas prices haven't dropped this election year either? Seems the presidents aren't even going to care anymore as long as they line their pockets

[thedeparted]

Well, lets put it this way. Paul is out basically. Newt is dead in water, Santorum is saying whatever hecan to not get the bid, so Romney going to get it I feel. But lets just say if Newt or Santorum get the bid some how they wouldn't get many votes either cause both are crazy as well. Basically 2012 GOP sent up crap to the plate, Ron Paul is sorta crazy too idgaf what the internet think of him, he's out there really. still, but he's just got the internet following. needs more mainstream and his time is basically done. 2016 probably isn't in his cards i recko

[Sunsetforgotten]

Yeah Ron Paul will not Ron in 2016. We'd be better off if Rand was Romneys VP and gave them an actual chance to win. It is just getting to the point where no one notices what is going on around us. I wonder how long it'll take for a global government to come into play.

[thedeparted]

I was going to vote today, but then I realized i didn't know anything really about the other stuff and felt I didn't want to vote. If i had i would've gave a vote to Ron Paul and had my gf do the same just to somewhat offset Santorum as he is polling good in this state last i knew

[Jaykub]

Romney = Running the country into the ground
Obama = Running the country into the ground

Ron Paul needs moar support

[thedeparted]

It's too late for Paul.

[Sunsetforgotten]

It's too late for Paul.


True story brah. Its a shame to see him go without ever holding office in the white house

[thedeparted]

Newt got a state, only cause it's home state state. lol at santorum/newt not getting enough signatures to be on virginia's. Atm Romney is called for MA, Vermont, Virginia. Tenn is called for Santorum. Oklahoma for Santorum as well now.

Super Tuesday 2012: Live Updates (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/03/06/super-tuesday-2012-live_n_1316233.html)

[thedeparted]

Romney within .7% at 75.4% reporting! wow so close that I needed to bump this for sure.

edit: .3% difference at 77.3%, so so close

edit: romney with .2 lead now

edit 3: .5 now, with 88.3% reported

[thedeparted]

Rick Santorum bowed out, Race all but over. Ginrich/Paul had even less a chance to catch up. It's funny how he's bowing out just days after pounding his chest that PA would be some sort of leap frog.

Get started Apr. 11: Santorum suspends campaign, small business optimism drops - On Small Business - The Washington Post (http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/on-small-business/post/get-started-on-apr-11-santorum-suspends-campaign-small-business-optimism-drops/2012/04/10/gIQA8quv8S_blog.html)

[CraeSC111]

Romney wins. If life was a videogame this would be a great time to call gg and join a different lobby

[YuriPrime]

Ugh, please America, for the love of pete, vote for anyone BUT Robamney...