Did any of you watch the news shows this weekend? And I am not talking about Troopergate because everyone saw that coming. I’m talking about the video from the McCain rallies. Clearly we now have proof postive that you shouldn’t sleep with your cousin.
My hat’s off to McCain for trying to set the record straight about Obama not being an Arab, but what does it say about his judgment that he handed a live microphone to Ma and Pa Kettle in the first place? I mean what truck and tractor pull was cancelled to make room for that stop on the Straight Talk Express?
Look. I called Governor Palin a bitch. Some of you didn’t like that word and I really don’t care. I’ve been around the block a few times. Hell, in dog years I’m already dead so a little word like bitch is hardly cause for concern in my world. But when a crowd starts yelling “terrorist”, “kill him” and “Arab”… well that is entirely different and it’s time the guys driving this Straight Talk Express started using their heads for something other than hat racks. If you watch Palin doing her little performance at those rallies you quickly realize that she is either too stupid to see or just doesn’t care that her dog sled is going down a slippery slope. We can’t put that in the White House. We just can’t.
But McCain has only himself to blame. He brought that pitt bull in lipstick down from Alaska and turned her loose on the lower 48. This is what you get when you begin to pander to the fears of the most ignorant among us. Lesson learned: if you lie down with Palin, you’ll get up with fleas.
That’s all until the debate. Thanks for stopping by. I mean it.
Margaret and Helen 
[…] 2008 November 1, Saturday, 16:11 — monado From Margaret & Helen’s blog: “The Straight Talk Express just drove off that Bridge to Nowhere.” I’m talking about the video from the McCain rallies. Clearly we now have proof postive […]
LikeLike
By: “The Straight Talk Express just drove off that Bridge to Nowhere” « Science Notes on November 1, 2008
at 3:11 PM
McCain painted himself in the corner by spreading his lies. Kudos to him for saying Obama is a good person, but shame on him for spreading lies.
LikeLike
By: Jaddsy on October 31, 2008
at 3:31 PM
As some have already noted, McCain didn’t say that Obama wasn’t an Arab – he just said that he’s “a good family man.” So he didn’t just not say that he wasn’t a Muslim, he offended whatever Muslim American who wasn’t already offended by the McCain/Palin freak show.
Also, even if he did go ahead and straight talk and say “Obama isn’t a Muslim,” it’s his campaign’s tactics that have allowed him to be in this “Don’t disrespect the other guy… See, lookie here, I’m nice!” For MONTHS, the McCain campaign has been quietly propagating this fear mongering rumor that Obama is a secret Muslim extremist terrorist set out to destroy America and not one word from McCain (well, except that “well, if he had just accepted my proposal for a gazillion town hall meetings, I wouldn’t have had to get negative” nonsense). I hope people see through his attempt at being a nice guy and see him for the desperate, win-at-any-cost politician that he has become. The myth of the black rapist (from the late 19th century into the 20th) has become the myth of the Muslim extremist.
LikeLike
By: Leah on October 31, 2008
at 8:04 AM
Greetings from London. I came by way of the hat tip from Andrew Sullivan. You are funny and very wise.
There should be two vacancies at the BBC just now which I think you’d fill admirably if you could be tempted. One pays $10m a year and I’d consider it a bargain if you’d agree.
No need to come to London except for hols. We have the technology. Mr.Tomasky on the Guardian better watch out.
LikeLike
By: Eats Wombats on October 29, 2008
at 8:24 PM
Helen,
When she paused to say Obama was an (long pause), an Arab. I thought she was going to throw out the “N” word. I was very nervous the first time I heard the clip. I think calling him an arab, communitst and socialist is done to replace that word…..truth be told.
LikeLike
By: Susan MD on October 26, 2008
at 11:13 PM
Sam I sat next to a Rich woman the other day, does this make me rich? what planet do you live on?
LikeLike
By: blgmama on October 23, 2008
at 6:24 PM
Sam,
I was hoping that you were going to say I am incorrect in my information. You seem to have a different take on ‘the facts.’
You need to go listen to Rush, (‘lock the druggies up, unless Rush is the druggie.) Humbug to get your thoughts together.
Sam, Vote Obama! You should do it!
LikeLike
By: JuneauJoe on October 20, 2008
at 10:38 AM
*sigh*… you have summed up exactly how I feel. Go watch FOX News, or something, pal, it’ll give you your version of the truth in the form of an enema, I hear.
LikeLike
By: phoenixofdiscordia on October 20, 2008
at 10:10 AM
Theres no use trying to have a discussion with Obama zombies. You have your talking points and there is no variation for the truth.
LikeLike
By: SAM on October 20, 2008
at 9:21 AM
Sam,
You sure know idiot – you see one in the mirror every day!
Why are people so excited about Obama? Look at the economic destruction which has happened in the last 8 years under Bush and the Republicans. We could also look at the war mongering which has taken place in 8 years. By the way, Afghanistan is going to hell and we still have not found Bin Laden.
Remember the WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction) which got us into Iraq? Oh Right, we are now saying we looked for terrorists. You like to forget that terrorists were not in Iraq until we decided to go to war. It was only going to cost 300 Million too, that is what Bush and Rummie were convinced of. We are now going on 700 Billion. A chunk of change.
As to calling Obama a terrorist and kill him, It happened and Sam, this would be a good forum to say, sorry, that should not be happening.
You seem to be suffering from the Republican distorted reality.
LikeLike
By: JuneauJoe on October 20, 2008
at 6:28 AM
But even you do not say that Palin or McCain called him a terrorist. He is friends with a former terrorist. And has been to social or political events at Ayers home. That doesn’t in any way make Obama a terrorist but you can not hold Palin liable for something someone in here audience called him any more than I hold Obama responsible for what some old woman called Palin, ie “bitch” The incident about the alleged shout from someone was investigated and found to be fabricated. Read something unbiased for a change or perhaps watch something unbiased. I have read horrible things and heard horrible things about Palin which are untrue and again I don’t attribute them to Obama. You are an example of Obama’s disciples. In blind faith to him you believe whatever evil you hear about his nonsupporters.
LikeLike
By: SAM on October 19, 2008
at 11:44 PM
SAM, you are delusional, I happened to hear with my own ears, someone IN person, say Obama is a terrorist, and where did they get that idea? Perhaps, Governor Palin saying he’s someone who “pals around with terrorists”? Or all this talk of William Ayers, who while he may be a terrorist, is also not in federal custody, has not actively done anything against the country in 20 or more years, and just happens to live in Chicago? As far as “kill him”, it was shouted rather loudly at a Sarah Palin rally. I think, you sir, or madame, as the case may be, need to check the facts on this one.
LikeLike
By: phoenixofdiscordia on October 19, 2008
at 9:53 PM
You are a great example that wisdom doesn’t necessarily come with age.
LikeLike
By: SAM on October 19, 2008
at 9:47 PM
You talk about Hitler. Obama’s the one with 100,000 adoring fans who believe every thing he says and are mesmerized and hypnotized by him. Some of his supporters have been interviewed about Obama’s beliefs and running mate. They were for him even though his VP candidate was Palin and he was antiabortion. They didn’t have a clue what he was about but they are voting for him. How scary.
LikeLike
By: SAM on October 19, 2008
at 9:45 PM
You are idiots and don’t have a clue as to the facts just skimmed the msm. No one has accused Obama of being a terrorist and no one yelled kill him. Get the facts first before you start expressing opinions that make you sound senile.
LikeLike
By: SAM on October 19, 2008
at 9:36 PM
[…] The Straight Talk Express Just Drove Off That Bridge to Nowhere […]
LikeLike
By: Exit 78 » The Clown, Clarabell, and Joe the Plummer on October 18, 2008
at 8:51 PM
And, Virginia Voter, that Youtube was THE SCARIEST FREAKIKNG THING I HAVE EVER SEEN! I sort of appreciate your posting it, but I sort of need a drink now.
LikeLike
By: demem on October 17, 2008
at 5:22 PM
Here’s what I’m wondering. All those nutballs who think Barack Obama is an Arab/Muslim/terrorist (and these things are always one and the same in the mind of such folks)… what do they think he’s going to DO when he’s elected? Take a walking tour of the US and personally convert us all to Islam? Build nuclear silos under the White House lawn and then bomb us from within? Make us all salute him with a fist-bump?
LikeLike
By: demem on October 17, 2008
at 5:06 PM
Thanks and love from Lake Tahoe, CA!!
Write on!!
xox
LikeLike
By: RorRorzGramGram on October 17, 2008
at 10:18 AM
They edited the “Arab” out of the media versions I saw.
LikeLike
By: feignsurprise on October 15, 2008
at 11:16 PM
Helen, thanks for the laughs, we sure need them now.
I live in Utah so you know how much shit I have to listen to.
LikeLike
By: Marilyn on October 15, 2008
at 6:16 PM
Hey, girls!
I heard about you on Stephanie Miller’s show, and you are my two new heroines. I want to be like you in 20 years! Oh yeah. Anywho, I’m not sure if any of these stations is close enough to you, but here is a listing of the radio stations that carry Stephanie:
http://stephaniemiller.com/stations.php?PageId=89&PageSubId=
Also, here is the website for Air America Radio, and they have stations all over the country as well.
If you get MSNBC on your cable TV, perhaps you already know about Countdown with Keith Olbermann and the new Rachel Maddow Show, but if you don’t, watch them soon!
My friends and I will be watching you, cheering for you, laughing with you and emulating you in days and months to come.
Love from San Francisco
Romare
LikeLike
By: romarebearden on October 15, 2008
at 5:46 PM
Helen: Love your blog! I’ll be sharing your site with everyone I know.
LikeLike
By: Joe B. on October 15, 2008
at 5:46 PM
McCain has been saying something to the effect of , “we don’t have time for someone to learn on the job”.
Well, considering we are in a huge financial crisis and he knows nothing re the economy, then I would have to say for once McCain is right. I don’t want McCain having to learn (if he can – he’s still trying to learn how to use a computer) about the economy “on the job”.
Love everything you’ve had to say! Please don’t stop.
Love from CA
Susan
LikeLike
By: Susan on October 15, 2008
at 5:20 PM
Sweet Baby Jesus, I love you Helen!!!
Both of my Grammies have passed on, will you let me adopt you?!?!?!
~Stephanie
Lake Balboa, CA
LikeLike
By: Stephanie on October 15, 2008
at 4:43 PM
Helen, you are so boss! You have a wonderfully entertaining way of expressing what most of us are feeling. I can’t wait to read your next!
LikeLike
By: cuzmewanto on October 15, 2008
at 4:35 PM
It is clear as day that Caribou Barbie is a white trash racist who is very comfortable talking about how Obama’s “not like us.” A quick check of her history reveals a woman who has been a racist for at least her entire adult life, and probably her entire life. People of fringe religions like hers are quite often convinced that the Bible “proves” their superiority.
I’d call her George Wallace in high heels, but George Wallace was nowhere near as stupid as she is.
LikeLike
By: JollyRoger on October 15, 2008
at 4:29 PM
Wow, this is my new favorite blog.
Helen and Margaret, I love reading what you have to say. Like someone else posted..this is what we are all thinking.
You go girls!!
YES WE CAN!!!
LikeLike
By: Judy on October 15, 2008
at 4:22 PM
Helen, where I come from you would be known as a real mess. And I bet you know that’s a good thing. I’m 56 and a lifelong Democrat who can’t wait to see these characters (John and Sarah) sent home to stay.
I want to be just like when I grow up!
You Rock!
LikeLike
By: 2zzday on October 15, 2008
at 4:11 PM
i have a new hero in life.
thank you, helen, for not being afraid to speak (well, okay, write) truth to the public and hellfire be damned at whatever they may think.
you are what so many of us aspire to be.
thanks — and keep up the good fight. we need you!
…
LikeLike
By: fivecats on October 15, 2008
at 4:04 PM
I too just heard about your blog on Stephanie Miller. Great blog! I’m 69 years old last month and my mom is 87 this month! We both are total Obama supporters and I started making small contributions before he declared officially he was running. I saw him give that speech at the 2004 convention and called my mom and said “We’ve got to have him for President”! Several of the older ladies that live where my mom are voting for Obama too, so they can put that tired old statement that older women won’t vote for him. P.S. They’re all caucasian!
My neighbor is getting laid off after working for her employer for eight years. Guess what? Her job’s going to Costa Rica. She gets to train the Costa Rican that will be doing her job! Another friend got laid off of her job as an x-ray technician. I’m retired, but worry if we get the wrong person for President I can live out of my mini van and two man tent if the Republicans get their hands on Social Security, etc. It’s real and dangerous the option that Grampy offers us.
He just wants to be President before he dies and he doesn’t care who or what gets ruined in the process. You have already expressed my feelings about Caribou Barbie, I can’t say it any better.
I’ll be checking on this blog from now on. It’s so lovely to see people telling the truth no matter how ugly it is.
My daughter is one month older than Obama, which could scare me 🙂 except I think Obama’s mama raised him better than I did my daughter 🙂 I think he’s a lot smarter too. I do love her though….
LikeLike
By: CalGal on October 15, 2008
at 3:58 PM
I am not a blog reader but this is a must-read! Keep up the amazing work!
LikeLike
By: Sue on October 15, 2008
at 3:50 PM
I love your blog. Please keep tellin’ it like it is.
LikeLike
By: lena on October 15, 2008
at 2:41 PM
Helen, Maggie, you are so old you still know when dancing was a sin and forbidden. I’m young but I feel tired, exhausted because of that Monday-Friday campaigning. But your hope is in vain – I still have powerful friends. That’s why I will win.
LikeLike
By: John McCain on October 15, 2008
at 2:35 PM
After Stephanie Miller read a bit of your blog, I fell in love with you two. You ladies rock. I saved you in my favorites and look forward to reading all your posts.
– “We are choosing hope over fear. We’re choosing unity over division and sending a powerful message that change is coming to America.” – Barack Obama, January 3, 2008
LikeLike
By: Jaddsy on October 15, 2008
at 2:29 PM
Wonderful news story on t.v. today about a 106 yr.old Catholic nun (American citizen) in Italy (I believe) who is voting again for the 1st time since 1952 because this election is so “important”. And she said that she is voting for Obama. Wow, does that say it all or what!
LikeLike
By: Joy on October 15, 2008
at 2:23 PM
Helen,
You have made my morning. I look forward to getting this dog and pony show off the national stage. Won’t it be nice when we STOP hearing about these two numbskulls?
Thanks for the laughs. I truly would like to meet you and give you a big ‘ol hug! You are too cute for words!
Your friend,
Karen
LikeLike
By: Karen P on October 15, 2008
at 1:43 PM
I LOVE YOU!!! Can you come to my hometown and beat some common sense into my family? I absolutely love your posts, and you hit the nail directly on the head each time. I only wish more people of your generation would see the light and understnd that McCain/Palin is another disaster in the making. May good sense from Americans prevent that catastrophe from ever happening. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us all….I mean that.
LikeLike
By: Scotty on October 15, 2008
at 1:16 PM
I LOVE your blog!!! It is so refreshing to hear you lay it out there. I, too, an very disturbed by the way the McCain/Palin ticket is now using people’s prejudice and fears as a way to get votes. It’s sad that they’ve stooped down to get the single-minded bigot vote.
LikeLike
By: Tempy on October 15, 2008
at 1:10 PM
Way to go, I will add you to my favs!
LikeLike
By: Robin on October 15, 2008
at 12:41 PM
Thanks for saying what we all are thinking!!
You have inspired me to be more agressive in my blog/podcast.
LikeLike
By: Jeff on October 15, 2008
at 12:39 PM
Couldn’t agree more, wish I could say it as well. Love the humor and the attitude. You remind me of Molly Ivins.
LikeLike
By: Sally on October 15, 2008
at 12:28 PM
You couldn’t have put it better, and hope you don’t mind, but I’ve quoted you in my “poitical manifesto”
I just can’t believe that people are so blind to the BS….
http://amomsrant.blogspot.com/
LikeLike
By: LuckyG on October 15, 2008
at 12:22 PM
Your blogs are FANTASTIC! Keep it up! The world needs more people like you, keeping everyone else honest!!
LikeLike
By: Kate on October 15, 2008
at 11:55 AM
I love your comments. They are spot on & I’m glad that someone is finally saying in print what I’ve been saying at work!! Palin is not only a Bitch, she is one scarey bitch. With McCain having more and more senior moments, we can’t afford to have him in the white house with her so close.
Keep them coming. You are an inspiration to this younger woman.
LikeLike
By: Lynn on October 15, 2008
at 11:31 AM
I love your blog! You say what we all need to say. You speak your mind and to hell with anyone else. Palin is a bitch. Good for you saying so. The Straight Talk Express has broken down and the Republican party has completely lost it’s way. Obama wins. We all win. Thanks and keep up the great work.
LikeLike
By: Brent on October 15, 2008
at 11:13 AM
Hi Margaret & Helen,
Love your site. Heard about it on The Stephanie Miller Radio Show. Greetings to you both from Kennebunk, Maine!
LikeLike
By: cwc on October 15, 2008
at 11:04 AM
Just heard your blog mentioned on the radio. keep up the good works, ladies!
LikeLike
By: Karl Rove on October 15, 2008
at 10:59 AM
Helen,
I wanted to alert you to the fact that Stephanie Miller just read from your blog on her show this morning, however, some of your other fans beat me to it. I look forward to your reaction to tonight’s debate.
You rock, Girl!
LikeLike
By: BarbinDC on October 15, 2008
at 10:59 AM
Helen and Margaret
I never liked hiphop until now:
Check this out!
Have a good day!
LikeLike
By: JuneauJoe on October 15, 2008
at 10:38 AM
Great Addition, great Saint Helen! I love you and Margaret! I’ve turned my mom and my kid sisters on to this site.
I totally agree with you about Palin and McCain. I can hardly believe that there was actually a time back when I actually respected John McCain. Then he tapped Palin to be his Veep running mate. After the Dumya-Cheney Vader reign of unending ERROR! I, too, doubt seriously if Palin can tie her own shoes, let alone be called upon to take that quentescential 3 AM call. McCain has taken political bootycall just a little farther than the nation can ever live long enough to appreicate on this one. He really needs to suspend his campaign for the Presidency while there is a scoasche of dignity still available, considering that the Straightjacket Regress has derailed itself.
LikeLike
By: rage on October 15, 2008
at 10:34 AM
Helen, if Margaret has been your best friend for 60 years, she must be wonderful. I’ll bet the two of you laugh a lot and have a great time together!
I love your wit and you make me proud to be a Texas.
LikeLike
By: Diane on October 15, 2008
at 10:26 AM
I just heard about your blog on The Stephanie Miller Show, so I had to check it out. You ladies are awesome!
LikeLike
By: Jen on October 15, 2008
at 10:14 AM
I LOVE THE ATTITUDE.. STEPHANIE MILLER JUST MENTIONED THIS SITE ON HER PROGRESSIVE AM 1150 STATION.. I HOPE ALL PROGRESSIVE CHECK YOU OUT.. THANKS FOR THE TRUTH..
55 YR OLD GRANNY.. OBAMA 08.. OR WE’RE IN DEEP … _ _ IT….
LikeLike
By: BARBARA on October 15, 2008
at 10:06 AM
Late Breaking News: It sounds like the Palins may be having law suits brought against them by those who were slandered. Check out:
http://mudflats.wordpress.com/
Good Job Folks.
LikeLike
By: JuneauJoe on October 15, 2008
at 9:47 AM
Oh, and one more thing. Just as muslims have denounced their extremists, it’s time for Christians to denounce theirs. Last time I checked, smears, hatred and bigotry were not the teachings of Christ. And they’ll know we are Christians by our love?
Hardly.
LikeLike
By: Kelli on October 15, 2008
at 7:57 AM
Helen, I live in the south as well. It is sad to say that there ARE people like that living in this country. I stand next to them in Kroger, they’re my neighbors, and they’re scary. Whenever I pass their McCain/Palin signs, I shudder. The only person brave enough in my neighborhood to put up an Obama/Biden sign was vandalized. It was spray painted one day, and shredded the next. I too applaud McCain for finally saying something, although it was through one side of his mouth, then through the other side he accused Lewis of disrespecting his base. I guess he missed that whole video taped monkey incident huh? This campaign is a joke of monstrous proportions. McCain doesn’t really have to do anything to lose the election but repeat “my friends” and let the religious right do the rest. He has let their bigotry take over the whole campaign. Here, where I live, there are actually people who beleive that Obama is the anti-christ. It says so in revelations! I don’t know how McCain got recruited into the role of the savior of all Christians. Somehow, these people actually think that a vote for McCain will somehow thwart armegeddon. That’s who he and Palin incited. That’s his base, this bunch of tent revival yahoo’s. They’ve made this their personal crusade. Do you see logic in this? You can’t reason with these people. They only see what they want to see, and hear what they want to hear. And if I hear that the media is being unfair to McCain one more time, I would like to implore to his supporters. When you see cameras pointed at you, and people wearing press badges, well, they’re the media. That camera? Yeah, televising your ass for the whole world to see. All they have to do is press record and zoom, and you’ve done all the work for them. Who looks like the anti-christ now?
LikeLike
By: Kelli on October 15, 2008
at 7:51 AM
You two rock!!! Thank you so much. Your ideas are as refreshing as your language is colorful. Keep dishing ladies!
LikeLike
By: Beth Beard on October 15, 2008
at 7:48 AM
I love your blog. I am 31 years old, about to have my first baby, and my husband and I frequently have conversations about where we will move to if McCain wins… Canada is nice, but too cold for me. Maybe the Carribean? Hard to know. Anyway, please keep writing! I sent your blog to my grandparents – I think you and my grandfather would get along famously. Keep on blogging, please!
LikeLike
By: Carla on October 15, 2008
at 6:33 AM
As one of the neighborhood leaders in the infamous swing state of Nevada, I applaud and admire your spunk and tenacity of the current election and its rhetoric. So many of us across the country of all walks, origins, socio/economic backgrounds etc. have come together to truly make a CHANGE once again. Barack is definitly an inspiring person and the leader that our country so desperately needs. All of the RSR (better known as running scared Republicans) can continue their scare tactics, lies, distortations and what not BUT the truth is that America has already changed with this movement. I believe in my heart that all of us united together are already making a big difference in our communities by volunteering and getting together. We are already triumphant and will continue to conquer until we are once again “the UNITED state of america”.
Keep up the honest blogging Helen as you have most definitly kept me inspired for the journey on the next 21 days and beyond.
LikeLike
By: Bobi on October 14, 2008
at 11:56 PM
Love your post!! 🙂
LikeLike
By: StarryNight on October 14, 2008
at 11:21 PM
Dear Helen,
I’ve missed you the last couple of days, and I hope you’re feeling okay. I look forward to your take on the debates tomorrow night. I put a link to your site on my blog today…hope that’s okay with you!
Blue
LikeLike
By: BlueLikeTheSky on October 14, 2008
at 10:59 PM
Hey there gals, checking your site again today ! I like reading all the comments and raves from my fellow admirers. I’ve even been calling a few of my old friends who are scared to use a computer and read them your latest postings – they love it. In fact one of them was laughing so hard, she had to change her “depends”! I want to share a senior moment thought that popped up in my old brain: If ARAB = Terrorist, why the hell does McCain want us over there helping them – could it be that most of them are ‘decent family’ people? Oh well – nite all, I’ll be checking the Helen & Margaret show tomorrow night !
LikeLike
By: Dee on October 14, 2008
at 10:37 PM
Well done! I fancy myself a Republican, but I too saw that video and found it repulsive in a very physical way. It is just wrong.
And, as much as I do not agree with Sen Obama’s policies and quite a few other things, I am finding it difficult to defend the Republican party and their recent campaign strategy.
Honestly, it is as if they have decided that the American public is simply a pack of drooling idiots that can understand nothing beyond foolish sound bites.
Even though I am quite convinced at this point that Sen Obama will soon become President Obama, I am sticking to my principles on the issues. Sen Obama has the charisma and leadership potential that we so desperately need in the Presidency, I just hope that the changes he brings are not as far left as they may be considering the Democratic Congress.
Enjoyed your post. I’ll be back.
LikeLike
By: Enthalpymama on October 14, 2008
at 8:24 PM
Your blog was forwarded to me by a friend. Outstanding and refreshing.
LikeLike
By: Dave on October 14, 2008
at 8:00 PM
Helen! I absolutely love reading your posts. I have shared it with all my friends. Keep them coming!
LikeLike
By: Jackie on October 14, 2008
at 7:21 PM
I’m a 71 year old kid myself and I just read your last 2 “rants.” You said truth and you said it well and you made me laugh out loud. I sent your URL to about 20 people. You go girl!
LikeLike
By: Shannon O'Brien on October 14, 2008
at 6:32 PM
Thanks for giving us a little bit of your straight talk Helen! I far prefer it to the bs McCain is trying to feed us.
I don’t care if you’re not really an 82 year old lady (I am having a hard time believing it)– I love reading your stuff.
LikeLike
By: Leah on October 14, 2008
at 5:17 PM
I love you. I really, really love you!
I’m sure you know the old saying “with age comes wisdom”. Well, I’ve been wise since birth and have had my ass kicked a million times (or more) for saying exactly what you have!
The best part is when you get to kick back and say, “See? I told you so.”
HA!
LikeLike
By: Kristi on October 14, 2008
at 5:08 PM
This blog is bullshit. I’ll eat my hat if a little old 80-something year old white lady is really writing this stuff.
But that said – it’s funny as hell. Carry on!
LikeLike
By: C. Smith on October 14, 2008
at 4:00 PM
You are the BEST!!! I love reading what you have to say. Keep it up…you are my HERO!!!
LikeLike
By: Sunny on October 14, 2008
at 3:59 PM
I cannot wait to read your blog after the debate between Obama & McCain Wednesday night. You go girl!!!
LikeLike
By: dona on October 14, 2008
at 3:47 PM
I can honestly say that, after reading your postings, I am blown away by your honesty and your “take” on all of this. More true words have never been said, and I wish I could link everyone I know to your blog.
Your families should be so proud of you – you take the time to make your thoughts known and express your opinions after careful thought is given. More power to you women! Keep it up!
Greg
LikeLike
By: Greg in MN on October 14, 2008
at 3:27 PM
you’re the coolest 82 year old lady ever! = ]
tell it like it is!
LikeLike
By: Anthony on October 14, 2008
at 2:42 PM
Hey there Gregg and James, I’m with you. This has become my morning ritual as well! I don’t even care about the naysayers, that this isn’t some nice little old granny at the wheel here. Doesn’t matter to me who or what she is, her opinion is hers regardless! Very entertaining and just the medicine the doctor ordered. Go Helen, whoever you are.
I’ll see you guys here again tomorrow AM, coffee and kleenex in hand (kleenex for the tears, tears from laughter)!
LikeLike
By: Nikki on October 14, 2008
at 2:03 PM
Im posting a comment I read on “Davenetics” that I think is worth passing along…..
Being Ahead
Posted: 13 Oct 2008 12:48 PM CDT
My guy is finally ahead. This hasn’t happened in presidential politics for awhile. As much as it seemed clear (like, uh, really clear) to me, in recently past elections, that my guy should be ahead, he wasn’t.
But now he is. I mean look at the polls. My guy is winning, by a lot.
And all it took was the collapse of the economy, a banking catastrophe, a stock market crash, a failed and expensive war, a dramatic drop in the world’s esteem for America, a sitting president with the lowest approval ratings ever measured (each time he spoke last week, the market plunged immediately), an over-stretched military, a housing crisis, a jump in joblessness, an overall sense that we are going in the wrong direction, an incredible low level of confidence in the notion that anyone in any position of leadership knows how to get us out of this or any mess, all combined with an opposing candidate who has been erratic, off-message, sluggish, poorly organized, unimpressive, unclear, angry, weird, old, badly handled, endlessly irritating to his own party, and who picked a lying, scandal-laden, and remarkably (hilariously if this were fiction) idiotic sidekick (I am a vegetarian animal-loving pacifist and frankly, the moose-killing is by far my favorite of her qualities). Just mix that with stadiums filled with idol-worshipping fans and the most money ever raised by anyone doing anything other than bailing out the world’s banks (in the next three weeks, my guy will be on the tube more than Regis) and you’ve got yourself a recipe for success.
If we had only known, a long time ago, that’s all it took to get one of these damn things won.
(Even with all this, it ain’t over yet. Scary, eh?)
LikeLike
By: stripedplanet on October 14, 2008
at 1:07 PM
Margaret and Helen,
I LOVE your blog! Please keep it up!
LikeLike
By: Rach on October 14, 2008
at 12:53 PM
You cannot prevent us to win the election and the wars. I will be president and Sarah Palin will be president after I leave office in 2016.
LikeLike
By: John McCain on October 14, 2008
at 11:29 AM
Hi Helen,
Can I adopt you as my grandmother?
I thought McCain was being a stand-up guy until I thought about his answer that crazy woman. His response was, “Senator Obama is a good and decent man”. What he should have said was, “No, madam, Senator Obama is not an Arab, he is an American!”
LikeLike
By: WWE on October 14, 2008
at 10:34 AM
Hi Helen,
Gregg again, it’s getting to be a morning ritual, see if Helen posted anything. You make my day, its so refreshing to see a blunt out look on the political BS going on. I actually got pulled aside because i printed up your first blog on the palin bitch and was told i can’t be pushing Obama, hell i told em i wasn’t pushin Obama, i’m just doggin McCain. Although there is a 3 foot long poster on the back of my truck says to vote for Obama (I’m not pushin no one’s side). And if it makes any difference i am hoping that Obama gets in so he can get rid of the military’s stupid Don’t ask don’t tell policy. I think its ironic that i can go to Iraq fight and die for our Country and not have the same rights as joe blow next to me. what the hell difference does it make who i sleep with. I don’t ask them who they sleep with. As long as i do my job who cares….enough said. You and Margaret have a great day and keep those blogs running. Love em.
Gregg and James
LikeLike
By: Gregg and James on October 14, 2008
at 9:57 AM
Well said indeed!
LikeLike
By: Ames on October 14, 2008
at 8:43 AM
Helen, I enjoyed the insight and the humor.
McCain is such an embarrassment, and the GOP has really lost its way. We had the best candidate of the race–Ron Paul–and the party and the media marginalized him away. (The Ron Paul Revolution will still have an influence in Washington.)
I like a lot of things Obama says, but I disagree with him 100 percent on abortion, drilling for oil and on the 700 billion dollar bailout–to name a few. Obama is just another clueless opportunist who didn’t have a problem attending a racist “church” for 20 years to further his political career. He has no idea how to fix the economy or lower spending. He’s a snake and someone I can’t trust. It’s a shame that McLame makes him look so good! What a pathetic campaign and what a desparate choice in an unvetted Sarah Palin!
We’re screwed.
LikeLike
By: Joe Alvarez on October 14, 2008
at 8:31 AM
Comment to Shazia.
Sorry, Shazia, you are absolutely right. This is yet another attack by Republicans on a minority group within our nation to stir up a radical right-wing element they have pandered to for decades. Last time it was gay citizens.
Thanks for calling that out for what it is. It’s always been hard to be a minority in America. You should have heard the hate launched by protestants in my home state of Oklahoma when Catholic John F. Kennedy was running for President.
We Americans feel that we have come a long way since the racism and prejudice of the 1960s, but we still have a long way to go.
Thanks, Shazia, for pointing that out.
LikeLike
By: Left-Eyed Jack on October 14, 2008
at 8:20 AM
This is soooo typical for you commies: no right of free speech for others.
LikeLike
By: John McCain on October 14, 2008
at 7:40 AM
Wow, what a fabulous blog! This post is just exactly right, and you go right ahead and call it like you see it. That’s what real straight talk is about. McCain could take a lesson from y’all.
LikeLike
By: bosquechica on October 14, 2008
at 6:34 AM
Hello Ladies,
I discovered your blog from someone at mudflats too! Your still spring chickens. That was my grandma’s line. You tell it like it is. Obama is an American with nice Tan.
Go Obama! My daughter and son-in-law live in Eagle River AK. I told my daughter to plan on getting their govenor back. She’s not going to the white house. I’m sad to say that they are voting for McSame, oh well. I was born and raised in Calif, and my daughter also. She moved to AK in 1999 with her husband.
My Mother has been for Obama since the very begining, she told me. Mom is a New York Italian, Mom and Dad moved to Calif in 1947. My best friends family, and her sisters family are for Obama. Us 3 ladies love Michelle and think she will make a great First Lady. I read that the official dog for the Obama family should be a poodle, I thinks that’s fitting and cute!
Take Care Ladies/ Obama/Biden08
.
LikeLike
By: Donna-dmch on October 14, 2008
at 6:20 AM
I discovered your blog from someone at mudflats and I love it. Congratulations and continue fighting for the truth.
I must say my say about the McCain/Palin ticket : McCain is pathetic, irresponsible and unfit for office – he is someone who has a hard time hiding his true emotions and it is apparent that he is so uncomfortable with what is going on, the racist attacks being shouted out at rallies and when he appears with Palin he seems to brace himself (or cringe?) everytime she opens her mouth. So why doesn’t he say anything or clean up his act? Because he so wants to be President he has stooped as low as is possible to go, which shows exactly how honorable a person he is – acting in ways he knows are wrong but continuing because it is the only way he’ll get votes.
Palin, on the other hand, is an inveterate liar – born out of a dangerous combination of ambition and ignorance. When you know nothing yet hunger for the highest office in the land, what else is left to you but to spread lies, mock and tear down your opponent. And it is the smug self-satisfaction she radiates everytime she speaks that is horrific.
Which is the more despicable? What a team!
LikeLike
By: Jamie, Floridian in France on October 14, 2008
at 4:33 AM
*strip away all the partisan bullshit rhetoric–obama and mccain are both the same politrixing machine that controls the government and HOLDS THE media hostage..
LikeLike
By: llllretchllll on October 14, 2008
at 4:25 AM
strip away all the partisan bullshit rhetoric–obama and mccain are both the same politrixing machine that controls the government and media hostage..
what is the c.f.a.?
who created it as a front-group?
why are obama and mccain both members?
who is the ‘electoral college’?
why do they control electoral power?
how much money have lobbyists donated to fund both campaigns?
what do they expect in return?
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER and the truth is a weapon
TURN OFF THE TV
ask questions
investigate claims
organize and unify
speak your mind
let your voice be heard
it’s not time for the politricksters brand of wishy-washy “change”
it’s time to fight for our rights and freedoms together
give the power back to the people
VIVA LA REVOLUCION
LikeLike
By: llllretchllll on October 14, 2008
at 4:23 AM
I love you and what you write! xx
LikeLike
By: Casper on October 14, 2008
at 3:59 AM
john mccain’s campaign is bulit on his biography–honorable pow–and has little to do with specific policies
LikeLike
By: llllretchllll on October 14, 2008
at 3:43 AM
Love it! great post!
LikeLike
By: Lily Bamboo on October 14, 2008
at 12:41 AM
Another terrific post, and right on the money as usual.
I wish you posted every day Helen. You are a pleasure to read and such a voice of reason and truth. Can’t wait to read what you think about the next debate.
And like another poster said upthread, your blog makes John McCain look all the more silly that he doesn’t even know how to use a computer!!
LikeLike
By: Beth on October 13, 2008
at 10:48 PM
Sarah Palin is as dumb as a box of hair.
Srsly.
LikeLike
By: Kami on October 13, 2008
at 10:08 PM
Dear Helen,
I had not heard anyone but you make this connection since Sarah Palin came on the scene.
She said it first when she announced and admitted that she was a “Pitbull with lipstick!” In fact, her tone implied that she was bragging about it.
It is my understanding that the female dog of any breed, lipstick or no, is called a bitch.
You just cut to the chase!
Cheers!
Jean
LikeLike
By: Jean on October 13, 2008
at 9:31 PM
You ladies are great! I’m writing a post now with links to this blog.
LikeLike
By: dhconcerts on October 13, 2008
at 9:30 PM
I guess Sarah Palin doesn’t know much about history here in the South, or any part of our country for that matter! You should not under any circumstances incite stupid southerners (I consider myself a smart southerner) with hate speaches. The rednecks in these parts don’t need much of a reason to hate on the black candidate who is currently kicking the GOP’s ass in the polls.
I am so excited that NC is in play in this election for the first time ever in my life! I will be voting for Obama/Biden. McCain might have gotten my vote this year had he not picked that dumb bitch as VP! I had a great deal of respect for McCain, then he picked her and started running the most negative campaign I can remember! I am losing more more respect for him everyday!!! So much for being bipartisan!
LikeLike
By: NC Kate on October 13, 2008
at 8:42 PM
Just discovered this blog…You are a breathe of fresh air! Whether you are truly 80ish, Helen or someone else, I have enjoyed reading your expressive comments!
LikeLike
By: ec412 on October 13, 2008
at 8:41 PM
http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2008/10/13/politics/fromtheroad/entry4518952.shtml?tag=rightRail;rightRailInner
and she didn’t even say “oh, I’m sorry”
LikeLike
By: trulyscaredofamoronvp on October 13, 2008
at 7:53 PM
Your political accumen is a blessing! Coupled with your willingness to be so forthright and sharing of your opinions, your readers (and they are becoming legend) have been treated to fantastic writing, humor, and political commentary. The internet, as it was originally intended, created avenues for expression and discussion. Yours is a perfect example.
As I have written before, I truly hope you are having fun with this. It will keep you young!!
LikeLike
By: bigsurkate on October 13, 2008
at 7:48 PM
Shazia: You are right. Helen: Maybe you should address what Shazia says. But I’m still with you in calling bullshit.
LikeLike
By: Summer on October 13, 2008
at 7:40 PM
we love you Helen and Margaret! Keep it up
LikeLike
By: Tara on October 13, 2008
at 7:39 PM
Grandma Helen, You’re the best! I love your articles. I always come here to check in with Earth. You’ve done it once again. Contact achieved. Have a great week.
Jerame Clough
-Next Gen Politics
LikeLike
By: nextgen08 on October 13, 2008
at 7:39 PM
Thank you! That was a wonderful post — funny and poignant.
LikeLike
By: gammara on October 13, 2008
at 7:33 PM
Another fantastic and truthful post!
LikeLike
By: Laurie on October 13, 2008
at 6:53 PM
Margaret and Helen:
I am your biggest fan. You continue to give our current administration hell! Why do I have this nagging feeling that Saturday Night Live might just do a parody of your blog site. Hope not.
LikeLike
By: Shirley on October 13, 2008
at 6:53 PM
And they go merrily goosestepping away from these rallies ready to do away with anyone that isn’t like them. Isn’t that most of us?
LikeLike
By: Crystal on October 13, 2008
at 6:46 PM
Just stumbled across this and remembered my “wisdom of the elders” experience from last year. Ladies, you’re now on my blogroll — keep calling a bitch a bitch until the sleeping dogs wake up!
LikeLike
By: dailyrev on October 13, 2008
at 6:33 PM
Helen,
What can I say. I am in love with your blog. Way to call it like it is and damn the rest if they are too uppity to hear straight-talk. By no means to I have your years of wisdom, but damn if my dog does not show more intelligence than the “bitch”. Keep writing as long as your ticking in heart.
Three Cheers!
LikeLike
By: Peacewolf on October 13, 2008
at 6:29 PM
Awesome post, Helen. Love the line about the fleas. Too true.
LikeLike
By: egghead23 on October 13, 2008
at 6:24 PM
Dear Margaret & Helen,
(Hey, Helen’s my middle name!) Keep telling it like it is–and call a bitch a bitch and a pig with lipstick a Palin. Hope when I’m your age not too long from now, I have the courage to let it all hang out too! You rock!
Ruth
LikeLike
By: Ruth on October 13, 2008
at 6:24 PM
Well, it is pretty much what I have been thinking. Palin isn’t smart enough to say “I don’t know.” No amount of mentoring, briefing, prepping is going to change her particular brand of self indulgent ignorance.
Pit Bull in lipstick. A respectable Pit Bull would not be caught dead wearing lipstick. And, I for one would not pet one that was wearing lipstick, much less elect one.
–
LikeLike
By: Leah on October 13, 2008
at 6:15 PM
I want to be you! You rock!!!!! Keep on telling them how it really is!
LikeLike
By: Shortstuff on October 13, 2008
at 6:12 PM
Kelly, I wish the animal kingdom, could just once, take their vengence out on those who do so much harm. I don’t understand why she wants to kill all the wolves..I hear ranchers in other states complain, but why in Alaska?
If man had his way, he’d eliminate every living thing..and with the numbers of creatures going extinct everyday…who knows..he may do it, but when he does, he most likely will go for mankind too. When men/women lose compassion, sympathy, impathy for other living creatures, regardless of their breed/size/etc. We are in deep trouble, because they lose it for humanity too.
LikeLike
By: Rosa on October 13, 2008
at 6:10 PM
I wasn’t placated by McCain’s response to “I heard he’s an Arab:” “No ma’am, he’s a family man.” When did being “a family man” and “an Arab” became mutually exclusive???
LikeLike
By: Jessica on October 13, 2008
at 6:04 PM
[…] The Straight Talk Express Just Drove Off That Bridge to Nowhere Did any of you watch the news shows this weekend? And I am not talkng about Troopergate because everyone saw that […] […]
LikeLike
By: Top Posts « WordPress.com on October 13, 2008
at 6:03 PM
Helen, have you seen this one?
LikeLike
By: Virginia Voter on October 13, 2008
at 6:01 PM
You’re tough! (-: I like that. I wouldn’t call her a bitch but Bimbo works well (-:
check out my blog when u have a chance:
expatforobama.wordpress.com
thanks
LikeLike
By: expatforobama on October 13, 2008
at 6:00 PM
[…] of the Year So Far: I have spoken of the wisdom of the elders before — here’s another instance of it; and if you could use a good laugh, I would recommend a visit. Hilarious stuff — Margaret and […]
LikeLike
By: Wisdom of the Elders, Redux | dailyrevolution.net on October 13, 2008
at 5:59 PM
I love this blog! You are my idols. I bookmarked you and sent your url to all my like-minded friends.
LikeLike
By: Leigh Ann on October 13, 2008
at 5:56 PM
Well said, Thank you Helen.
LikeLike
By: dml on October 13, 2008
at 5:54 PM
Helen, you make me so proud. You remind me of Grandmother (God rest her soul). She was a straight shooter like you! She voted for McGovern – a true Democrat she was. You keep it up because the real straight talk needs to said and you say it best!!
LikeLike
By: Kathy on October 13, 2008
at 5:50 PM
I was just listening to FoxNews and heard McCain saying something to the effect of , “we don’t have time for someone to learn”. In essence, we don’t have time for Senator Obama to learn to be a president.
Sometimes, I don’t think, McCain thinks before he speaks.
Has he thought about what this country would be in for if he (heaven forbid) …… died?
If he could not fulfill his duty, somebody would have to take an idiot and teach it how to be the president …… they would have a hell of a task.
I’d say, we don’t have time for his running mate to learn to be president. I don’t even think she can communicate presidentially. Can you imagine what it will be?
McCain thinks terrorists are looking at this because of what he says is “Senator Obama’s inexperience”. Well I got news for him, I’ll just bet they are just chomping at the bit with the thought of his idiot running mate being in the white house. They would have a field day or year.
I don’t think he thinks about his age and his health and what would happen to America if he died. That in itself says he doesn’t care. It’s as if he is saying, hey America, here’s my ass ……..
LikeLike
By: trulyscaredofamoronvp on October 13, 2008
at 5:30 PM
Helen-
You’ve made my day/week/year…. As I get older and dread the changes – I realize what I have to look forward to. An opportunity to say what I feel and be damn proud of it – without worrying about who’s feelings might be hurt by my opinion. I certainly don’t hurt people’s feelings on purpose – but sometimes people get hurt just because you don’t agree with them….
Also – my mother wants a picture of you and Margaret to hang in her room…
LikeLike
By: Stacy on October 13, 2008
at 5:14 PM
i run a dog rescue & that bitchs record on animals is a disgrace. & she has the nerve to say she’s pro-life! but i do wonder if the woman that couldn’t trust Obama because he’s an “arab” is also afraid of hairbrushes? certainly didn’t look like she’d seen one in a while. oh well, maybe someone will send her one for Xmas.
LikeLike
By: mary in NH on October 13, 2008
at 4:50 PM
Thank you!
This is the America I always thought existed, but felt like I couldn’t find. Why is it that people at odds with republicans are the unpatriotic ones? Why is when someone tells it as the see it, there is a whole crowd of people that will shout you down, call you wrongheaded and unamerican?
Allowing our differances to exist, arguing and disagreeing, and flourishing because of that, well, now that’s American.
With Rocky and Bullwinkle trying out the fear pulpit, well, they have lost their right to govern (I hope, they might get elected still). We need to embrace our future, see how we can make it better and grander, and struggle as we get there together, not hide from it in a hole in the ground.
LikeLike
By: Andrew (Bronx) on October 13, 2008
at 4:33 PM
Sorry for the double post, I’m trigger happy today. The polls have me on CLOUD 9, stop on by!
LikeLike
By: Nikki on October 13, 2008
at 4:26 PM
Again dear Helen, you are so right. Keep cussin’ and telling it like it is. As for me? I love colorful language. The more colorful the better. Besides, calling her a BITCH was letting her off easy! I can think of much, much worse.
Btw, have you been asked to be on Bill Maher or The View yet? I would looooooove to see you get ahold of that Hasselbeck idiot-bitch and rip her to shreds with your scorching tongue and rapier wit. Sheesh, is she STUPID, it would be too easy, yet sooooo much fun!
LikeLike
By: Nikki on October 13, 2008
at 4:25 PM
Again dear Helen, you are so right. Keep cussin’ and telling it like it is. As for me? I love colorful language. The more colorful the better. Besides, calling her a BITCH
LikeLike
By: Nikki on October 13, 2008
at 4:23 PM
I am with you Rosa! I think Palin should strap on one of her “wolf furs” and then we throw her out in the Alaskan wilderness for the “sportsmen” to fly by and shoot her and leave her for the real wolves to finish off!
LikeLike
By: Kelly on October 13, 2008
at 4:18 PM
You ladies make me proud to be a voter, a woman, and even a citizen of Texas! Keep telling the truth and calling bullshit when you see it, I’m visualizing Obama winning Texas, myself….
You ROCK!
LikeLike
By: Jody on October 13, 2008
at 4:13 PM
Love your blog. I enjoy my site and having the ability to vent and air my opinions also. Palin was here (St. Clairsville, OH) yesterday and it was a joke. Her rallies are so staged and pretentious. She spewed her garbage and for a minute it looked like a “down home revival!” God, give me a break. The next three weeks can’t go fast enough – alhtough Mccain/Palin seem to gives us so much to talk about on a daily basis. The bitch needs to go build an igloo or something! Keep up the great blog!
LikeLike
By: Marie (themom) on October 13, 2008
at 3:59 PM
Helen, I just was directed to your blog..great going. I am 70 and I am delighted to see the respect you are receiving from your readers. I have one thing to say about Palin..why hasn’t anyone mentioned the brutality she has inflicted on the animals in Alaska. She doesn’t believe global warming is man-made? She hunts from airplanes, and has allowed her Game Dept to slaughter wolves and their pups. The shot 14 orphaned wolf pups in the head, and killed 14 adults in one hunting..killing the pups is called “denning” and is ILLEGAL even in Palin’s state. They didn’t talk about that. But she has bounty on the foreleg of a wolf of $150…here animal activists, animal lovers are donating a lot of money to try to save the very animals she is having slaughtered. Forget the Polar Bear & global warming, she wants to open up ANWR..stupid woman. I hope she never uses the word ‘SPORT” in connection with her killing elk, bear, etc. It’s only a sport when both sides are equal…too bad the animals can’t have a proxy holding a gun, when she is hunting.
LikeLike
By: Rosa on October 13, 2008
at 3:33 PM
Hi Helen!
I love your writing! You are so smart and so funny. Keep up the good work!
LikeLike
By: Kelly on October 13, 2008
at 3:21 PM
Holy Bevo, Helen, I love you! And on this particular Monday, I’m not feeling too good about most Texans, especially those attending university in Austin!
How could ya’ll have elected Dubya and headed him on down his road to fame, our road to the poorhouse, in the first place? (Well, to be fair the Dow is up over 900 points today, so there’s hope.)
Keep up the good work and the excellent writing. Ann Richards and Molly Ivins would be proud of you!
LikeLike
By: SoonerShamrock on October 13, 2008
at 3:10 PM
Hi there Helen,
I got a big kick out of your post and have to agree on the mud slinging. What happened to the McCain from 8 years ago, who was the guy talking about voter reform? I feel like the parties really get their hooks into these candidates and turn them into something none of us want. I am actually about to write in my own candidate this year. I’ve been a registered Republican my entire life but can’t stomach what I am seeing. Either way, I hope after this election is over that America can get back together and support whomever wins the election to get down to the business of solving this economy crisis. Thanks for the laughs…
Angela
http://angelafardo.com
LikeLike
By: Angela on October 13, 2008
at 3:09 PM
Amen! I am SO glad my mom sent me this link! McCain made this little hate bed, and now that he has to lie in it, we have to congratulate him on correcting that rube? Let’s be honest, the only thing McCain did wrong was spell out for these ignorant hicks that what he was TRYING to do was make people call him a terrorist and the N-word in PRIVATE and spread the word quietly! Having them all screaming it out loud and showing up for rallies only forgetting their white hoods painted him into a corner where he HAD to say something! Besides, in his response to that idiot about Obama being an Arab, I NEVER heard him call Obama a Christian. Called him a family man, yes, but he never clarified that he was NOT a muslim! Mistake? I think not! I think McCain proved that he has been complicit in all of this and does not deserve praise because he is now forced to do crowd control on the zealots that HE fired up!
LikeLike
By: Kate on October 13, 2008
at 3:08 PM
Helen, you are a treasure. but i have to say that i’m deeply offended when you call “little miss hotpants” a pitbull. pits are smart, lovely dogs who have to be actively trained to be mean. palin seems to come by it naturally. & pits are usually good parents, i’ve seen no sign of that in her either.
if you ever get up this way, we’ll take you out for a nice lobster dinner. keep on doing what you’re doing, we love you for it!
LikeLike
By: mary in NH on October 13, 2008
at 3:00 PM
I thought even a lawless Nation like America once had laws against incitement to violence and making threats. Seriously though, isn’t Palin outside the law by encouraging this conduct with her girly winking and decision not to say anything while her audience of inbred morons descended into a lynch-mob. Does this not make her complicit in any acts of violence that may arise from this? It certainly speaks volumes about her sense of responsibility.
BTW Hello from Northern Australia ladies. You’re on my bookmark list now.
LikeLike
By: Paul on October 13, 2008
at 2:54 PM
I love your blog. I agree about these rallies reminding me of Hitler and his hate-filled rhetoric. Has anyone else noticed how much Palin ENJOYS spitting her venom? I am ashamed of her. One more thing ~~ when did a pregnant teen-ager become a “family value”? Because she CHOSE to continue her pregnancy. Well, all women should have the same right. And that right should not ever be government-controlled. I do not see beauty in Palin ~~ I only see racism.
LikeLike
By: claire on October 13, 2008
at 2:54 PM
I love your blog. I love you both. Keep on truckin’
LikeLike
By: rogerhollander on October 13, 2008
at 2:48 PM
[…] https://margaretandhelen.wordpress.com/2008/10/12/the-straight-talk-express-just-drove-off-that-bridg… […]
LikeLike
By: Margaret and Helen: God Love ‘Em « roger hollander on October 13, 2008
at 2:47 PM
Beautiful (paraphrased) comment that I read somewhere on line
They came after the Blacks. But I was silent because I wasn’t Black
They came after the Jews. But I was silent because I wasn’t a Jew
They came after Arabs. But I was silent because I wasn’t an Arab
Then they came after me, and there was no one left to speak for me.
LikeLike
By: Dee on October 13, 2008
at 2:27 PM
I’ve just read everything you’ved posted these last few weeks (and, by accident, even a little from your Thxgiving letter from last year to your family). Please keep writing, even past the election if you can! I noticed that you didn’t used to write too much before all this election sh*t hit the fan, but Girl, you have your heart AND head in the right place and I enjoy every word! And don’t worry about the sailor-talk…it just makes you more real and colorful!
(Did I mention that I love you?)
More XOXO from Seattle…
LikeLike
By: dyricci on October 13, 2008
at 2:18 PM
How refreshing!! Finally, a woman who speaks her mind, with wit and thought, who obviously has an IQ above our current “leaders”. I am bookmarking this site so that I don’t miss a comment. Thank you so much; I wish I had had someone of your caliber for a mentor when I was younger. Keep the homefires burning.
LikeLike
By: kellyb on October 13, 2008
at 2:13 PM
We need more seniors like you two birds. The nation would be in a lot better shape if everybody stopped voting with their guts and cared about the issues.
LikeLike
By: Tim on October 13, 2008
at 2:12 PM
you made me laugh out loud here in my mom’s hospital room. thank you! and keep on keeping on, kicking ass and telling it like it is. i HATE the “b” word in general but there are times it applies. in my illustrated dictionary, palin’s picture is right next to the word.
thanks for the blog and hope you can be as visible as possible between now and 4 november.
texan howlgirl
LikeLike
By: howlgirl on October 13, 2008
at 2:07 PM
That saying at the bottom? Priceless, and I thank you.
LikeLike
By: The University Princess on October 13, 2008
at 2:06 PM
Thank you, and may you have many more years of friendship and talk the truth. Obama is for all, I am so ready.
LikeLike
By: nearlynormalized on October 13, 2008
at 1:58 PM
It doesn’t matter who wins. George Wallace said it best, “there’s not a dime’s worth of difference between” Republicans and Democrats. The Democrats willingly went along with the War in Iraq, suspension of Habeas Corpus, Patriot Act, banning books like “America Deceived’ from Amazon, Wikipedia and Facebook, warrant-less wiretapping and opening private mail. They are both guilty of treason.
Clean them all out and save this great nation.
Last link (before Google Books bends to gov’t Will and drops the title):
http://www.iuniverse.com/Bookstore/BookDetail.aspx?BookId=SKU-000083883
LikeLike
By: Peter W on October 13, 2008
at 1:53 PM
Hi Helen, you are wonderful! I saw that rally and thought to myself, If I were John McCain, I’d just quit, right there and then! I don’t know why he gave her the microphone, but I’m sure glad he did! It made me laugh. It seemed to me that he couldn’t get away from her fast enough, either. It was pretty obvious the woman doesn’t read newspapers, watch CNN or brush her hair.
LikeLike
By: smhoward on October 13, 2008
at 1:51 PM
Helen,
You’ve filled the void left by Molly Ivins. Tell it like it is.
I wore an Obama shirt through 2 airports yesterday and was surprised by all the people I spoke with of all ages and colors who also support him.
We should print up some t-shirts with your website. You rock.
LikeLike
By: swimmombernie on October 13, 2008
at 1:38 PM
Helen – YOU ROCK!!
I love reading your spot-on perspective laced with terrific humor! You speak for me better than I ever could (and you can use any language you desire!!)
I still have young kids (even tho I’m 50), but the older I get the more perspective I obtain. ***HOORAY for HELEN*** who still sees clearly and educates others with her endearing wisdom.
Nominate and Vote for Margaret and Helen as Best Political and Best Humor Blog at: http://bloggerschoiceawards.com
Thanks Helen!!
LikeLike
By: Guammom on October 13, 2008
at 1:28 PM
Helen,
You have brightened my life in this election hell (sometimes i don’t think the election will ever end and I will be left to ingest incessent political vitriol for the rest of my life). I absolutely love your blog and after I discovered it, I have sent the link to everyone I know…and they all love it too.
Thanks so much!
LikeLike
By: Big Helen Fan on October 13, 2008
at 1:19 PM
*waves at margaret and helen* McCain behaved because the FBI was in the audience to observe. Because he knew this, he had to show that he was a good boy.
LikeLike
By: steadycat on October 13, 2008
at 12:43 PM
ooops!!!, I meant Maddie
LikeLike
By: trulyscaredofamoronvp on October 13, 2008
at 12:42 PM
Hey Naddie;
Caribou Barbie!!!!
I nealy fell off my chair laughing……..
LikeLike
By: trulyscaredofamoronvp on October 13, 2008
at 12:41 PM
—> not a good time to be a REPUG!
LikeLike
By: Mike in Ohio on October 13, 2008
at 12:36 PM
JM- you seem to be a tad afraid………..
too damned bad………..
LikeLike
By: Mike in Ohio on October 13, 2008
at 12:35 PM
you hit the nail on the head yet again!
LikeLike
By: Mike in Ohio on October 13, 2008
at 12:33 PM
Daryl, you are the antichrist just like Obama.
LikeLike
By: John McCain on October 13, 2008
at 12:32 PM
Calling Palin a bitch demeans good dogs everwhere …
When he loses (gawd and the undecided willing) I hope he gets as much as she will on the lecture circuit … tho I cant help but wonder who would go to a lecture/speech of her’s .. oh, wait, of course, those who dont have comedy clubs in their area…
Great blogging!
LikeLike
By: Daryl on October 13, 2008
at 12:30 PM
Helen, I am in total agreement. I commend McCain for what he tried to do in calming down what his pit chihuahua had instigated. But I think it’s too little, too late.
Where was he two weeks age when his lipstick wearing pit chihuahua started this?
Why did it take him two weeks to step up?
Why did it take people from his party and the rest of the country to say “open you eyes and see what you chihuahua is doing?”
Can you imagine, it’s 3am and the red phone in White House rings and he doesn’t act until someone from his party gives him a nudge.
You didn’t hear or see anything like what you hear from the Republican supporters from the Democratic supporters until pit chihuahua Palin spewed her vehement.
Where was he two weeks ago?
Why did it take him so long to open his ears and eyes.
LikeLike
By: trulyscaredofamoronvp on October 13, 2008
at 12:29 PM
Applause!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If anyone wants to read what McCain’s POW years were really like as well as his career, Go to the Rolling Stones article that has a link in a reply to Helen’s last post. It’s 10 pages everyone should read.
The Republican tactic in a nutshell:
Stardate 5029.5
Spock: “Evil does seek to maintain power by suppressing truth.”
McCoy: “…or by misleading the innocent.”
Spock: “Without followers, evil cannot spread.”
LikeLike
By: Barbara Anne on October 13, 2008
at 12:15 PM
Here here!
LikeLike
By: gemma in az on October 13, 2008
at 12:14 PM
Helen–Here’s all I can say. If I could have dinner with three live people it would probably be you, Margaret, and Tina Faye. I just hope, when I’m 82, I am still coherent enough to speak my mind, whether people like my language or not! Afterall, somebody’s gotta get real and call a bitch, a bitch when she’s staring you in the face. Keep up the good work, Helen, and I’ll let you know when dinner is ready….
LikeLike
By: Darleen on October 13, 2008
at 12:13 PM
I love your blog! I just found out about it.
You remind me of my Bubie and her BFF–maid of honor at her wedding!
Bottom line: I wear lipstick and I am voting Democrat this year. That’s all.
🙂
LikeLike
By: Adorable Girlfriend on October 13, 2008
at 11:58 AM
Thank you for speaking openly and honestly about what’s in your heart. It truly is a breath of fresh air in this day and age.
Would that more Americans were as willing to speak truth to power.
Cheers!
— f
LikeLike
By: footpad on October 13, 2008
at 11:44 AM
helen i love you!!!!! no one could have said it better, and i actually respect your opinion more since you obviously have lived through some frightening times in our country! i am 24 years old and hold your generation in the higest regaurd
for overcoming all the obstacles that stood in your way!
I would follow your opinion to the end please keep writing!!!
nicole from ohio
LikeLike
By: nicole on October 13, 2008
at 11:38 AM
Thank you for your recent blogs. My wife and I have been crying with laughter at your hilarious insights. Please keep blogging, your posts are a breath of fresh air….Ken
LikeLike
By: Ken Caldwell on October 13, 2008
at 11:35 AM
After you have read Helen’s thoughts, you might consider those of Leonard Pitts, Jr., an excellent nationally syndicated writer. He has some comments about Palin at http://www.miamiherald.com/living/columnists/leonard-pitts/story/721465.html
It should be required reading for anyone smart enough to string two sentences together.
LikeLike
By: I can see traffic; Palin says that qualifies me as a transportation expert on October 13, 2008
at 11:25 AM
Hey, inquisitiveisgood
This is interesting…I hadn’t read this before. Thanks.
http://www.mccainbetrayspows.com/#/home/4530777103
***
Col. Earl Hopper (ret.), Army Airborne Officer, Intelligence Officer, Korean War, Vietnam War
“Within five or seven days after being captured McCain made a deal to trade medical care in exchange for highly classified military information including specific details of the package routes for bombing North Vietnam. He also told them the primary bombing targets. We lost 60% more aircraft and men because of the information McCain gave to the North Vietnamese. After about a month things had gotten so bad that we called off bombing North Vietnam.”
and
Garnett “Bill” Bell, fmr. Chief of the U.S. Office for POW/MIA Affairs, 33-year Army veteran, Vietnam Veteran (2 tours) Awarded Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Cross of Gallantry. One of the last Americans to leave the fall of Saigon.
“McCain had roughly 20 hours in combat. Since McCain got 28 medals that’s equal to about a medal-and-a-half for each hour he spent in combat. There were infantry guys — grunts on the ground — who had more than 7,000 hours in combat and I can tell you that there were times and situations where I’m sure a prison cell would have looked pretty good to them by comparison. The question really is how many guys got that number of medals for NOT being shot down.”
LikeLike
By: I can see traffic; Palin says that qualifies me as a transportation expert on October 13, 2008
at 11:14 AM
Helen, you ARE the STRAIGHT TALK EXPRESS! I am so glad to have found this blog today!
Mr. NiceNasty and his sidekick ARE driving off the bridge to nowhere……………
LikeLike
By: Linjucola on October 13, 2008
at 11:06 AM
Helen, you are my new role model! I am a sixty-two year old woman and I love your style. I want to be just like you when I grow up. I agree 100% with you… Palin is a disgrace and McCain was crazy to choose her. I live in a red state myself, so I see a lot of those Ma and Pa Kettles around here. I have to listen to people like you to keep my sanity!
Judy
LikeLike
By: Judy in KY on October 13, 2008
at 11:03 AM
So many antichrists and
terroristsArabs like Shazia are slandering me here though they are just illegal aliens. But do I condemn them? No, as a true Christian I let them speak their snaky Arab, muslim terror-talk. Yes, ma’am – I do so because I believe in free speech and though Barack Osama is a muslimterroristsI always tell he is a decent family manwho plans to outnumber us Americans with his muslim children which he has with his 10 wives.I am a POW who was tortured beyond believe but survived those fucking Asians in Vietnam without telling anything to those communist bastards.
So how can you say I was a bad person?
How can you say that about the next president of the USA?
LikeLike
By: John McCain on October 13, 2008
at 11:02 AM
Here are some terrifying videos of our fellow Americans sounding like Brownshirts:
http://www.alternet.org/blogs/video/102501/mccain-palin_rally_attendees_say_incredible%2C_ridiculous_things/
Truly a low point for what we thought was the enlightented, 21st century!
LikeLike
By: Bliss on October 13, 2008
at 10:58 AM
I love you Helen!!
Your posts are so full of these cute snippets they are such a joy to read. My favorite from the bridge to nowhere……it’s time the guys driving this Straight Talk Express started using their heads for something other than hat racks.
LOL LOL LOL Look forward to your next one!
LikeLike
By: zwolnova on October 13, 2008
at 10:55 AM
Rock on Helen! Good to hear the wise elders among us schooling those who would believe these silly smear campaigns.
McCain pretends he doesn’t agree with the vitriol — but who put Palin up to spouting off this demagoguery?
Keep up the fine commentary!
Peace.
LikeLike
By: Bliss on October 13, 2008
at 10:53 AM
Has anyone ever looked into the idea that your election process is way too friggin’ long? People don’t know what to do with themselves anymore, so they start making up crazy stories and call each other names and stuff. I mean, we do it too, but we only have 6 weeks of it — no telling what all would happen after several years of campaigning.
LikeLike
By: XUP on October 13, 2008
at 10:30 AM
McCain is not well-loved by POWs.
http://www.mccainbetrayspows.com/#/home/4530777103
LikeLike
By: inquisitiveisgood on October 13, 2008
at 9:59 AM
Helen, Keep up the good work. I love the way you think.
I agree with those who say McCain didn’t go nearly far enough when dispelling the Arab comments. Why do Americans think that terrorism was invented on 9/11? Remember bombings in disco’s Berlin and London in the 80’s & 90’s. Remember Oklahoma City? Northern Ireland? Did Arabs have anything to do with those? Terrorism knows no ethnicity or religion. It is equal opportunity hate. McCain should have said something MORE than what he did — it wasn’t enough! His campaign stirred up this hate and fear, they need to dispel it.
LikeLike
By: Kat on October 13, 2008
at 9:54 AM
Dear Helen,
Once again, you have hit another one out of the park! BRAVO!
LikeLike
By: Left-Eyed Jack on October 13, 2008
at 9:50 AM
Janice said: “At least he stood up and did the right thing instead of just “letting it go” as he did with the comments about Hillary.”
I disagree. He actually slammed Arabs. When the woman said that Obama is an Arab, McCain said something to the effect of, “No he isn’t. He’s a decent man.” What? Arabs aren’t decent? I realize many people equate Arab with terrorist, but that is an unfair characterization and not one that should be coming from a man who wants to be President. After all, some of us are Arabs!
LikeLike
By: Geralyn on October 13, 2008
at 9:50 AM
Thaaank You Helen!
Damn! We’re going to Hell in a hand Basket and all we get is a Dog & Pony show!
Seriously Folks. I’m a 36 year young woman, and I sure as hell don’t want that old white Fart and that stupid, cave woman. Running this show.
Not that I believe “they run anything”. We need some soul in the white house, A person who will bring about RADICAL Change!
Hell I’d welcome a Full Blown Revolution at this point and just get rid of all the old, stale, Crooks in Government and start over!!!
This Country has been going down hill for a long time. It’s only “the people” who are ever going to bring about change. But they have to stop watching so much mind numbing t.v and get there brains off over processed food first. WAKE UP PEOPLE!
Nothing is every as it seems. IT”S ALL BULLSHIT! Better start getting educated before you wake up from your pop-tart coma and find out you really are a SLAVE!
P.S. Income Taxes are Illegal! Look it up! Also while your at it find out what the IRS really does with your money.
I want my beautiful children to have the right to pursue happiness, don’t you? Well, peace is the only way to achieve that. Gandhi- Ever heard of him?
LikeLike
By: Ali on October 13, 2008
at 9:42 AM
I believe it was Caribou Barbie herself who said she’s a pitbull in lipstick – I totally agree, pitbulls are beautiful, loving animals. I don’t know what word would be descriptive enough to call Palin.
LikeLike
By: Maddie on October 13, 2008
at 9:42 AM
bravo dear woman. Keep it up! Obama by a landslide!
LikeLike
By: sick of the GOP on October 13, 2008
at 9:38 AM
Helen, you are my new favorite blogger. Keep saying the truth about McCain/Palin.
And I agree with Debra’s comment – comparing Palin to pitbulls is an insult to a lovely breed of dog. They’re only vicious and evil when raised by people like Palin and her buddies.
LikeLike
By: Theresa on October 13, 2008
at 9:34 AM
I love what you have to say except for Palin being a pit bull in lipstick. Raised right pit bulls are very lovely dogs and do not deserve to be tarnished in a comparison with a self-serving, dim bulb like Palin.
LikeLike
By: Debra on October 13, 2008
at 9:22 AM
Blitzer said that? I missed it – that’s AWESOME! I have to agree here with Shazia; while I do like Obama, the comment was totally racist. Come on already, regardless of who you favor, is this not the Land of the Free and Equality as Shazia said? I always *thought* it was. Let’s not go backwards here, move forward!!!!!!!
I hate slurs against one’s nationality or religion.
LikeLike
By: Maddie on October 13, 2008
at 9:19 AM
Helen, I love your blog and am looking forward to your opinion of the upcoming debate. Maybe before then you can write a blog to address all the his-middle-name-is-Hussein-so-he-must-be-an-Arab-terrorist nonsense. I can’t be the only one sick to near death over that irrelevant distraction, and it’s not just because Obama is continually forced to disassociate himself from the Arab nation. What really gets under my skin isn’t that Hussein=Arab but rather Arab=Terrorist therefore Hussein=Terrorist. If you follow that logic than almost any name, let’s use McCain, can be linked to terrorism: McCain=Irish, Irish=IRA terrorist, therefore McCain=IRA Terrorist. It can become a new game. I know — let’s call it Six Degrees Of Ties to Terrorists.
Being a German doesn’t make you a Nazi, being Italian doesn’t make you a Fascist, being Russian doesn’t make you a Marxist, so why do so many people insist on believing that being Arab makes you a terrorist and being Muslim makes you a fundamental extremist? I’m Norwegian, does that make me a Viking?
Helen, we need your wit and wisdom to try and put this nonsense away once and for all. Whadaya say? 🙂
LikeLike
By: earth2lisa on October 13, 2008
at 9:09 AM
Yeah, she called Obama an Arab. And McCain’s response? “No, ma’am, he’s a good man, a family man.” Really? Because Arabs don’t have families right? Arabs are BAD PEOPLE.
Shame on you and the news channels out there that express outrage that Obama was called an Arab. You should be outraged that a nationality is being used as a SLUR in the great, free, Land of Opportunity and Equality, United States of America. You should be saying, these comments should be discouraged by the McCain campaign because they are downright RACIST. Not because precious Obama was called an Arab.
I applaud Wolf Blitzer of CNN for being the ONLY newscaster I’ve come across since then that has called it as it is, downright RACIST.
Practice what you preach, people. Those who are offended that Obama’s race is being made an issue in this campaign should be equally offended by racist behavior towards any other group.
LikeLike
By: Shazia on October 13, 2008
at 9:04 AM
Helen, don’t ever stop. You are the voice of clarity and reason in a sea of obfuscation.
LikeLike
By: Librarians 4 the 1st Amendment on October 13, 2008
at 9:01 AM
Helen, you’ve made my day. Thank you for YOUR straigh talk!
LikeLike
By: Mike Goad on October 13, 2008
at 8:54 AM
Here’s a link that people can read that concerns the rumor of Obama is a Muslim, and where it got its start. Its a long read, and well worth it.
http://www.swamppolitics.com/news/blog/2008/10/obamas_muslim_rumor_creator_ex.html
Obama/Biden in ’08
LikeLike
By: Don in Massachusetts on October 13, 2008
at 8:45 AM
Ma’am you are wonderful! If you ever get to Wisconsin I’ll buy you that piece of pie. Keep letting folks know that it’s not about Republican or Democrat but about right and wrong. It’s so good to hear someone speaking of common sense when lately all we hear is hate and negativity. Thank you.
LikeLike
By: Bob on October 13, 2008
at 8:38 AM
Margaret and Helen,
Love your blog. It makes me miss my grandmother. On politics she wasn’t a partisan, but she could sure as hell tell chicken shit from chicken salad and was more than willing to try and help others see the difference before they put it in their mouths. That’s what I see in your writing; pointing out the difference.
Thank you.
p.s. You also help make McCain look like an idiot for not knowing how to use a computer.
LikeLike
By: libdemKS on October 13, 2008
at 8:36 AM
Helen you got it right again, the McCain/Palin rallies are scary to watch and now they can’t back pedal fast enough to cover their “straight talk”
LikeLike
By: Juli on October 13, 2008
at 8:34 AM
As a Dutch woman not able to vote in your election, I must say how I love how you talk straight and call things by their proper name and say it like it is. Hats off to you, dear woman.
LikeLike
By: Irene on October 13, 2008
at 8:08 AM
Rock on Helen! I love you!!
I think the dregs have society have appeared at the McCain/Palin rallies and they at first decided to go with the crowd and actually incited them.
They didn’t realize it was going to backfire on them and now McCain is slowly asking Ma and Pa Kettle to step away from the mike that he gave them to begin with. This is the guy they want to have his finger on the button??? I don’t think so!
Keep up the good work…I’ll be checking every day for your delicious pearls of wisdom.
LikeLike
By: Lori on October 13, 2008
at 8:06 AM
McCarthyism is described as “aggressively questioning a person’s patriotism, making poorly supported accusations, using accusations of disloyalty to pressure a person to adhere to conformist politics or to discredit an opponent, subverting civil rights in the name of national security and the use of demagoguery.”
“President Truman wrote, ‘(McCarthyism) is the corruption of truth, the abandonment of the due process law. It is the use of the big lie and the unfounded accusation against any citizen in the name of Americanism or security. It is the rise to power of the demagogue who lives on untruth; it is the spreading of fear and the destruction of faith in every level of society.’ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McCarthyism
It seems to me that McCarthyism very nearly describes the words and actions of McCain and Palin, their rabid followers, and Fox News commentators. It is like Pogo said years ago: “We have met the enemy, and he is us.”
LikeLike
By: I can see traffic; Palin says that qualifies me as a transportation expert on October 13, 2008
at 7:25 AM
McCain in 2000 at least looked like a good guy (I have my doubts he ever was) but now he has employed the same goons that ruined him in 2000 to do the same to Obama. What does that say about the man?
LikeLike
By: Asheville JJ on October 13, 2008
at 7:05 AM
Those fine upstanding comments by McCain started on the same day as this one – watch his hand when the guy in the crowd yells “traitor”.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/10/10/obama-called-traitor-agai_n_133613.html
LikeLike
By: barb on October 13, 2008
at 5:05 AM
Look, Miss Helen, I am an honorable POW and a war hero. I don’t need to lie or slander. I am brave and tell that senator Obama off when he is wrong – and he is always wrong.
I even stood behind him when this fine old lady told he was an Arab
terrorist. As you can see I immediately said “No, Ma’am! He is a decent family father.” since I just know he is a father but I surely don’t know if he is an Arabterroristor not.LikeLike
By: John McCain on October 13, 2008
at 4:20 AM
Right on!
LikeLike
By: Just Jess on October 13, 2008
at 2:51 AM
Helen, I’ve been wondering: You lived through it, so how similar is today’s political environment to McCarthyism?
I did a little research and wanted to share what I found. I hope you don’t mind…I’ve tried to edit it down (!)
***
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McCarthyism
“McCarthyism is a term describing the intense anti-communist suspicion in the United States in a period that lasted roughly from the late 1940s to the late 1950s…
“…The word ‘McCarthyism’ has entered American speech as a general term for a variety of distasteful practices: aggressively questioning a person’s patriotism, making poorly supported accusations, using accusations of disloyalty to pressure a person to adhere to conformist politics or to discredit an opponent, subverting civil rights in the name of national security and the use of demagoguery are all often referred to as McCarthyism.
“President Truman wrote, ‘(McCarthyism) is the corruption of truth, the abandonment of the due process law. It is the use of the big lie and the unfounded accusation against any citizen in the name of Americanism or security. It is the rise to power of the demagogue who lives on untruth; it is the spreading of fear and the destruction of faith in every level of society.’
“On June 1, 1950, Senator Margaret Chase Smith, a Maine Republican, delivered a speech to the Senate (and) called for an end to ‘character assassinations’ and named ‘some of the basic principles of Americanism:
The right to criticize;
The right to hold unpopular beliefs;
The right to protest;
The right of independent thought.
“She said ‘freedom of speech is not what it used to be in America,’ and decried ‘cancerous tentacles of “know nothing, suspect everything” attitudes.”
***
Like Pogo said years ago: “We have met the enemy, and he is us.”
Karl Rove, Limbaugh, Cheney, Bush, Palin, McCain, Coulter, O’Reilly, Hannity, the other Fixed/Faux/Fox News demagogues, and today’s rabid followers of Palin/McCain all appear to meet descriptions of McCarthyism, except it’s just not specific to communism anymore, it seems.
LikeLike
By: I can see traffic; Palin says that qualifies me as a transportation expert on October 13, 2008
at 1:26 AM
Also.
LikeLike
By: Foodmom47 on October 13, 2008
at 12:25 AM
Helen and Margaret, you all rock! I commend your integrity and wit!
Putting it this way, I think she has the sociopathic tendencies of Leona Helmsley……. others have stated the compelling reasons. An example would be in tax evasion.
Only, Helmsley left a trust for her animals.
LikeLike
By: Foodmom47 on October 13, 2008
at 12:25 AM
Margret and Helen,
Here’s to you for saying it straight. I want to share a bit with you from my family.
My dad, Roy Earling Fritch, celebrated his 90th birthday almost a year ago. About a month later dad died quietly. At 90, Dad was one of the sharpest people I knew. He had in his later years, begun to read more since he wasn’t as mobile as he used to be. He was a WWII veteran, had been a small independent business owner for nearly 60 years and was a life long Republican. I’ve never experienced him as being willing to waiver on his party line voting. Given that, I want to share a brief story with you that I experienced a little over a year ago.
On one of my trips home to spend a weekend with my parents, I was sitting at the dining room table reading the Sunday paper with Dad. It was kind of a ritual in our house. After about 30 minutes of quietly reading and sipping his coffee, he quietly, under his breath, said, “You know, if I was voting for President right now, I’d vote for Edwards.” That was it. No commentary. No energy on it. It was just a short, under-his-breath statement that nearly knocked me off my chair.
This was the first remotely political comment my dad had made in my presence since we had had harsh words about the fact that I told him that I wouldn’t go to Viet Nam to fight in a war that was nothing but a money making effort for large American corporations. I had seen friend after friend go to Viet Nam and either come back dead or so traumatized that they were barely functional. It was a short, but defining moment in the relationship with Dad. We never did another thing together as father and son. It has take nearly forty years for me to rebuild the relationship where we could talk. This is why I was so surprise that Dad made the comment. After regained my composure I asked, “What makes you say that?”
Dad quietly replied, “First of all, how could anyone vote for Giuliani or McCain? They’re f***ing jokes. (Did I mention that my dad was a bit rustic?) I don’t think we’re ready for a woman President yet either. Obama may be a good man, but I don’t think this country is ready to vote for a black man. But Edwards is from a humble working class background. His parents were mill workers. He put himself through college, stuck it out through law school and made a damned good life fighting for the little guy. He sticks by his values. He speaks his piece and then stands firm. His wife is fighting cancer and he is standing with her and she is standing by him as well. It just doesn’t get any better than that.” This was all said in a gentle, firm voice that didn’t ask for acknowledgement or rebuttal. It was a simple statement of fact for him.
His brief answer revealed to me that my dad, at the age of 90, was still willing to learn and change. I realized that Dad saw that the Republican Party had left him.
I think that this a great country and I’d like to think that people will wake up between now and November 4th. That they will look to see who the best leader is and vote accordingly. At the very least I hope that they can vote their pocketbook.
LikeLike
By: Logdog on October 13, 2008
at 12:10 AM
Pit bull? Hardly! More like an American Eskimo Dog… http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Eskimo_Dog
LikeLike
By: LatigoLiz on October 13, 2008
at 12:07 AM
*applause*
LikeLike
By: Chloe on October 13, 2008
at 12:00 AM
Yes, it was good of McCain to interrupt the comment about Obama being an Arab, but as usual he was off the mark. His response was to say that Obama is a good family man. This has the effect of implying that Arabs are not. His comment did nothing to dispel the negative image of Arabs and Muslims that the Bush administration and McCain and Palin have been promoting.
LikeLike
By: ParB on October 12, 2008
at 11:51 PM
I couldn’t have said it better myself, Helen! See you after the next debate…
LikeLike
By: Mari on October 12, 2008
at 11:44 PM
I have faught this woman’s policies (beliefs) for over 3 years now with environmental/animal rights groups. i cannot wait until she is sent back to AK. I will fight still, as fervently as before, against what she has done to deny my kids the right to a good and clean future, against her wanton crimes against humanity by means of killing off animals who (God made?) are part of the environment and ecosystems which sustain us humans. I will fight her as hard as before if not harder, seeing not eh audacity of her to try to take over my nation. I am flipping fed up. I cannot take any more of this self righteous woman who make claims against the opponent that only she is guilty of. Of this female who thinks she can get my vote because of gender or religious beliefs (seperation of church and state), this wench who treates animals and environment so badly, even though they are key to our future generations living as happy and freely as we now can. Screw her. I am sick of her and her kind. Screw you, Sarah Palin. I said it and I sure as shit won’t take it back. Screw you, woman wanna be. You are not fit to be placed in the ranks of me. Up yours. I care too much about people and longevity to be blinded by anything else, especially ambition and not even religion. You are my nemesis. Bring it on.I have a respose for your every attack. Bring it.
LikeLike
By: Lorax on October 12, 2008
at 11:40 PM
McCain is doing the very same thing, in his “fear campaign’ that Adolph Hitler did with the Germans regarding Jews!
Where there is injustice anywhere, there is injustice everywhere.
LikeLike
By: Tina on October 12, 2008
at 11:37 PM
Margaret & Helen…
The two of you “ROCK”!!! A friend from Dallas introduced your link to me, and I am so happy that she did. We both support the Obama-Biden ticket and we can’t wait for real change in America. It makes me happy to know that the two of you don’t mind telling it like it is. I look forward to visiting your blog again to see what else you have to say about the campaign before and after election day. Keep up the GREAT work!!!
Big Al
League City, Texas
LikeLike
By: Big Al on October 12, 2008
at 11:31 PM
I love it – Australian politics is so boring compared to yours, and we have to vote (its against the law not to).
A recent media survey here in Oz suggested that some 78% of Aussie’s want Obama to win.
LikeLike
By: Colin on October 12, 2008
at 11:29 PM
Holy pooh. I love you Helen.
I am watching the VP debate again and I want to smack this female. She is so full of shit I don’t even have words to express this, and I am an expressive person!
McCain NOW says to respect Obama and not be afraid of him all he wants, the frickin issue is the mofo planted the seed along with his minion Palin and their campaign. They are spewing hate. Let’s look at the screams of McCain/Palin rallies of anti-Obama with “off with his head”, “treason”, “traitor”, “bomb Obama”, “Muslim”, and “terrorist”. Check Huffington if you want to catch up on this.
Too late. You have people beleiving he is Muslim (hi, how is this if you also want them to believe that he listened to Christian Rev. Wright? Pick one or the other). You have people hating him for skin color, middle name (Hussein, so frickin what?, that sounds pretty racist to me to judge based on name), you even.. holy shit the audacity of you… have some dude holding up a fuggin stuffed monkey doll with an Obama sticker on it touting it is Barack Hussein Obama the monkey doll. Again, check Huffington for this if you think I am full of it. There’s frickin video here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/10/12/man-holds-monkey-doll-wit_n_133965.html I just about vomited watching it, so full of hate and intolerance.
Helen, I do not mean to go off on people in your blog but i am so fed up and just plain pissed. This is such a dirty and unpresidential worthy campaign being waged against Obama. It’s ridiculous. At one time I liked McCain and respected him. With his encouragement to racial slurs and hate I lost that last sliver. I can’t shut my mouth and be nice anymore, he’s gone off the deep end.
I trust Obama, I trust he will lead us in the direction we need to go. I trust he will make decisions, based on finances left to him, that he will make the right choices to pull us back to the forefront ot nations in the world. Especially after seeing how low the other camp will stoop, I am glad to support Obama/Biden. Hell, yeah, Helen. Keep on rockin’ in a free frickin world. Make sure we hear you. You are my voice and of many others. Keep it real and TRUE.
LikeLike
By: Lorax on October 12, 2008
at 11:24 PM
Dear Helen,
You sure do have a sharp mind and wit. I’d love to read a few of your letters to your kids! Maybe a authoring a book in your future, after of course you see this election through.
Keep it up,
M.
LikeLike
By: Melissa on October 12, 2008
at 11:15 PM
Helen, I absolutely agree! But to be fair to McCain, I do believe he’s a good man on the inside, which did show through a little last week.
Everything that’s happened in the past month or so – the nomination of Palin, the negative attacks, pandering to the conservative base – it’s really the GOP, and McCain’s at fault for giving them the wheel of the Straight Talk Express.
But the same BS tactics from the past 2 elections won’t fool [the smart] Americans this time around. Looking back, McCain may have been great in 2004, and he might even be acceptable in 2008 if he reverts back to his roots. (You can’t teach an old dog new tricks, right? Well, his old tricks may not have been bad.)
But given the nomination of Palin and McCain’s…”vulnerabilities,” let’s say – that’s not a risk America should take.
LikeLike
By: Patapon on October 12, 2008
at 10:54 PM
No worries Helen, it’s going to be Obama in a landslide Electoral College win.
LikeLike
By: Dr. Monkey on October 12, 2008
at 10:53 PM
I’ve put some scary videos up on my blog (some tonight, and some last week) including, likely, the one you’re talking about. But the one I discovered tonight on HuffPo, with the stuffed monkey, is truly the worst. I keep thinking about 1968, sitting in the elementary school cafetorium, and carving the names of our favored candidates into our ice cream cups with those little wooden spoons.
The Wallace-loving kids were scary back then. Still are…
LikeLike
By: BlueLikeTheSky on October 12, 2008
at 10:48 PM
At least he stood up and did the right thing instead of just “letting it go” as he did with the comments about Hillary.
Not that I think Hillary is the cat’s pyjamas or anything, but disrespect is disrespect.
LikeLike
By: Janiece on October 12, 2008
at 10:46 PM
Dear Margaret and Helen,
The best survey of things I’ve read lately! Biggest problem I see is the “fear factor” these two have unleashed on the public. I can’t believe people can’t see through all this bullshit including my own dear brother. Dear God I’m counting the days until we can rid ourselves of these theives and liars. Thanks lots!
LikeLike
By: Linda Sedberry on October 12, 2008
at 10:45 PM