Joann's AP Government Blog

U.S., Mexico to cooperate on gun smuggling

2009-04-02T19:36:00.000-07:00

Mexico is currently struggling right now of controlling drugs and illegal weapons being smuggled into the Mexico border through United States. Mexico and United States decided to work as a team cooperatively in order to form some plans to prevent drug trafficking and smuggled weapons. Mexico’s situation is intensifying every minute. The Mexican Attorney General Eduardo Medina-Mora decided planned to check 10 percent of cars that are crossing the border. By dedicating more time into Eduardo’s plan and with the help of American officials they can prevent drugs and weapon trafficking. Eduardo mentioned that 1.4 billion is being spent for improving the vehicle inspections tactics. Currently, there 1,600 cases that are drug related. The U.S. Homeland Security secretary, Janet Napolitano, also agreed that we need to improve our border inspections and to reduce demand for drugs. Janet Napolitano will with Eduardo and with other officials to create and establish an agreement. Then the agreement will be signed by Barack Obama when he goes to Mexico to visit the Mexican president Felipe Calderon. However, United States does not want to change any gun laws and that our second amendment is not being interfered. United States will also use x rays and trained drug sniffing dogs to catch the criminals.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30016402/?ocid=MSNToolbar130

Follow Obama's lead: Invest in teachers

2009-03-26T20:58:00.000-07:00

I think that we are all aware that our educators are being affected by the recession as well. The economy is making a major impact towards our teachers because they received pink slips. The teachers are not the only people who are being impacted but students are also worry. This year 9,000 pink slips were sent to teachers including to the staffs such as administrators and cafeteria workers. Children and students are extremely worried because some of their talented and bright teacher might not have a job next. To begin with, teachers who received a pink slips means they are in danger of losing their in other words they might be lay off. This is occurring because there is not enough money or budget in order for the teachers to get paid. Obama’s stimulus plan will help with the crisis. The LAUSD might receive 1 billion dollars. This is very important because we can all relate to it. Some of our teachers have received pink slips. Even Belmont had a walk out but it was not a great idea. To support our teachers we can protest but we need to be organized. This means we need to be well informed understand how this is making an impact towards our life and also we need to develop an objective. We can also help by doing our homework and listening to our teachers. Hopefully the economy will improve soon because many hardworking people are struggling.
http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/la-oe-tokofsky26-2009mar26,0,3035560.story

For Obama, Talk About Economy Goes Into Late Night

2009-03-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

We are still in economic crisis but do not worry it takes time to improve our economy. For Obama he appears to be calm and confident. He is so confident that he appeared on “Tonight” show with Jay Leno. Obama talked about how his plans is going to save the economy in a humor way. During the show Obama said that we need to close the door before the horse get out of the farm. I think he is saying that we need to close to any other problem that may occur in order to improve the economy. By using the media Obama can show his other friendlier side. Since mostly Americans uses the media for political information this is a good way for Obama to expose himself. Americans form their political views by political socialization. Family, religion, media, education, and income all fall under political socialization. Since “Tonight” show is a very popular it is pretty sure that a lot of people are going to see the show and Obama. Now Obama can have a stronger connection with the young adults. This can help Obama when he runs for reelection because citizens will remember Obama when he appeared on the show. Also by showing his humorous side citizens will feel more connected to Obama and just maybe they will see Obama down to earth just like us Americans.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/20/us/politics/20obama.html?_r=1&ref=politics

Orange County board votes to suspend Planned Parenthood contract

2009-03-12T22:04:00.000-07:00

One controversial issue is welfare programs. Americans wants to know how their money is being spent and who will it benefit. Since everyone has different opinions over abortions it is very clear that organizations such as Planned Parenthood will face some obstacles. The Orange County decided to suspend the contract of Planned Parenthood because they do not support abortions. The Orange County will suspend the 300,000 dollars contract because Planned Parenthood was not spending the money appropriately according to the Orange County. They wanted the money to be spent on educational purposes no ton abortions. However, the chief executive chairman of Planned Parenthood stated that the money was being spent on educational curriculum such as anatomy, physiology, birth control, sexual transmitted diseases, and abstinence. Data demonstrated that teen pregnancy is very high in Santa Ana and Anaheim. Planned Parenthood claimed by suspending the contract teen pregnancy will increase dramatically. When the board was discussing over the situation they involved their religious beliefs and they did not know that Planned Parenthood was receiving county money. I believe Planned Parenthood is a good thing to have a part of our community because it will help some teenagers. However, as for abortions if the teenager decides to have an abortion I think it should be allow because it is her body and her decision. The last thing that I want is to support another child through taxes our economy crisis is enough already.
http://www.latimes.com/features/health/fitness/la-me-planned-parenthood-protes-2009mar11,0,2748012.story

Fed survey: economy deteriorated in January, February

2009-03-04T21:32:00.000-08:00

When we elect our president we typically check how the economy is doing. If the economy is doing great we usually vote for the incumbent but if we see that the economy is in crisis we vote for the challenger. It is true; the economy does influence Americans of who they are going to vote for. When the economy started going downhill we couldn’t wait for George W. Bush to leave office and quickly welcome Obama hoping that he can improve our economy. Republicans only worries about inflation and Democrats only worries about unemployment. Well right now unemployment is increasing due to the recession. Citizens are constantly being layoff. Blue collars meaning labor workers and white collars people are professionals are being affected by the recession as well. The Federal survey basically summarizes that food production and pharmaceuticals are barely passing by. However, for businesses it is getting worse. Business people do not have a positive attitude and they do not believe of seeing improvements by late 2009 and early 2010. All the information was gathered before February 23. The information will help economist to form theories and make predictions of the economy which will be discuss amongst the chairman Ben Bernanke next on March 17-18. The president has economist advisors that help him of how to improve the economy and which policies to pass. They also advise him of how much money he will need to spend and how much he is going to affect and how it’s going to affect the economy. So far the economy is still in turmoil and the economy is slowing down instead of progressing.
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-fed-economy5-2009mar05,0,6389224.story

Obama brings back era of big government

2009-02-26T21:15:00.000-08:00

Obama proposed a budget of 3.55 trillion to rescue our turmoil economy. Americans are ready to move forward and take necessary risk in order to move towards a prosperous future. This first started by electing Obama in November. This proposal will not only create new jobs but rich people will be tax more, well Americans that make over 250,000 a year. Obama also plans of expanding the healthcare system, energy independence, and including education. By increasing taxes on Americans that make 250,000 a year our president mentioned that we can use that money to help pay healthcare insurance. However, citizens are worried that this can affect small businesses because of the increase taxes they might have to lay of workers and stop hiring people. In my opinion I think Obama is doing the correct thing of increasing taxes amongst the wealthy people. We can use the money and spend it on important subjects such as healthcare, education, and maybe we might still have extra money which we can use to finish pay off the war of Iraq. We still have a chance of rescuing and improving our economy. Americans and politicians can use this as a lesson of how to appropriately spend the money and how to create a better budget plan.
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/2/27/worldupdates/2009-02-27T073145Z_01_NOOTR_RTRMDNC_0_-382386-1&sec=Worldupdates

Robyn Ritter Simon: 5th District City Council candidate

2009-02-18T18:33:00.000-08:00

A bureaucracy is a large administration that is filled with the president appointees. The president nominates the officials and must be approved by the senate. In this case Robin Ritter Simon is running for 5th District Los Angeles City Council. Robyn talks about how he can improve transportation and development. As we all know Los Angeles is known for heavy traffic. Robyn wants to improve this problem by building more highways, extending bus lines, and create projects that can improve our transportation. However, Robyn wants the projects to be completed as quickly as possible and are safe for our citizens so America can continue to be in the move. He also wants to encourage commuters to reduce their use of cars and carpool with the help of businesses. The businesses will be provided with incentives in order to encourage the public to reduce the use of cars. For cyclist he promises to expand the bike lane in order to reach their destinations. But to fulfill all the transportations promises he wants to be appointed to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority board so he can solve the problems and work directly with issues that involves with transportation and development. Once elected he can start working of solving the problems.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-transpo-council-simon16-2009feb16,0,5659233.story

Obama 'at doorstep' of an economic plan

2009-02-11T18:25:00.000-08:00

Obama’s economic stimulus plan has been passed in the House and the Senate. However, the House and the Senate received different revision. Due to this situation the House and the Senate will have a conference to discuss their difference. Obama main concern is to fix economy and move forward as soon as possible. The faith of the economy hangs in the plan that Obama created. Now that Obama has the final version in his desk he can sing it in order to help American citizens and people from other countries. This plan will also create many jobs which is a great benefit especially since our country is currently going through a recession. People who have been layoff will have a job to fall back on; work that need to be done in America. I n Virginia alone 100,000 jobs will be created. Other politics may argue against the plan and think it’s too big but Obama who is very confident strongly believes that his plan will work and only success will occur. Obama and Kaine the head chairman of the democrats met each other in Virginia. Together they saw a view of an abandon construction area. The stimulus plan can help by putting people back to work in order to finish building the Fairfax Parkway.
http://www.swamppolitics.com/news/politics/blog/2009/02/obama_at_doorstep_of_an_econom.html

Arizona Versus Johnson in the Supreme Court

2009-02-05T18:25:00.000-08:00

Arizona versus Johnson was debated in United States Supreme Court. A police officer that was serving her duty of a gang task stopped a vehicle. During that time the police officer did not have any reasons of stopping the vehicle for suspicious crime activities. Officer Trevizo focused her attention on Johnson, the back passenger for his behavior and for his clothing. Immediately the officer began to question Johnson. Trevizo then realized that Johnson was from a town of Crips gang and that he has been in prison before. The officer ordered him to step out of the car for further questioning. In addition Trevizo also checked the other passengers because she suspected that they were armed. After she patted down the other passengers she discovered a weapon. Johnson began to resist Trevizo therefore, she decided to handcuffed Johnson. The court mentioned that Trevizo’s stop was lawful and that she had good reasons for suspecting Johnson was armed. The court did not suppress the evidence and Johnson was charged of possessing a weapon. An officer is only allowed to stop an individual without violating the fourth Amendment of unreasonable searches. Except when an officer believes if the person is armed and the investigation has to be lawful.
http://www.supremecourtus.gov/opinions/08pdf/07-1122.pdf

Barack Obama inaugural speech

2009-01-20T12:02:00.000-08:00

Obama delivers an inspirational speech in January 20,2009. In Washington D.C. Obama was inaugurated in the Capitol which was view by many people that live in cities, villages, and small towns. He delivers a speech that brings back our American spirit and our hope. Despite all the obstacle that America is facing we will overcome them. This is our time to establish our spirits and spread our spirits among other countries. It is time that we stand up from all the pessimism and dust them off as we move on forward towards a better future. Our spirit is what motivates us and it cannot be broken because we can defeat every enemy that tries to destroy our American spirit. If we do not move forward and live in hope we are forgetting the true meaning of liberty. Corruption is not liberty nor it is in our history that we fail to show our nation that liberty will defeat the outside corruption that only causes conflicts. We can extend our hands and help other countries to flourish in a better justice of democracy. As I sit in class and watch Obama I know that we can make a change. Before I doubted that any change would occur but seeing everyone in tears open my eyes and I realized that America is heading towards a new direction. Even though America is facing a lot of obstacles they will be met like Obama said. We just witness that nothing is not impossible we can make a difference.

Children's insurance program

2009-01-15T17:54:00.000-08:00

In Thursday the Senate committee gathered and decided to improve children’s insurance program in order to help 4 million uninsured children. By enacting the law of increasing the spending for the children’s insurance program passed easily. But the legislation caused friction between the democrats and the republicans. Senator Charles Grassley opposes the idea of insuring immigrant children through Medicaid and SCHIP. Grassley also stated that the legislation unsuccessfully did not excluded wealthy families from the program. All the democrats from the Senate Finance Committee voted to support the bill. In Wednesday another similar legislation was passed by the House. But undocumented individuals and their sponsors were required to sign a contract stating that they will not seek for help in the first five years. Baucus the democratic chairmen invested 31.5 billion which did not cover illegal children. Senator Jay Rockefeller proposed an amendment D-W.V which was also approved. Rockefeller strongly believes that it is not right for children to wait for 5 years in order to receive help. Republicans opposed all the legislation because they believe that it will encourage immigrants to come to America for the government’s benefits. The democrats supported Rockefeller and 1.3 billion was invested in federal spending over 5 years. Documented or undocumented, it should not matter of who should be eligible for health insurance especially children. Children should not be positioned in the middle of the confrontation between the democrats and the republicans. If the republicans fear that by expanding the insurance program will affect our economy or fear that it will grab immigrants attention they should just create rules and boundaries that can not only help our country but every individual in this country.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jHQJTroL4umFZ2mRXioLAuwjrMawD95NSGDO0

Vice President Cheney Swears In The New Senators

2009-01-11T18:05:00.000-08:00

The United States Senate is the upper house which means they have a lot of power. Senators are members of the Senate. Senators are representative of the state. If a person has a specific problem the Senators devote their time in order to resolve the conflict. The 17th amendment which was established in 1913 states that Senators could only be elected by the people. Before the state legislator elected the Senators. To be eligible to become a Senator you have to be 30years old, be a citizen for 9 years, serve six years, and take an oath. In total there is 100 Senators, 2 per state. This is important because each state has equal representation. The Senate has power that is not granted to the House. For example the Senate can approve treaties, confirm appointees of cabinet secretaries, federal judges, executive officials, and military officials. The Senate is more contemplative than the House of Representative because the Senate is smaller and they have members that serve longer terms. Another reason why the Senate is more prestige is because they have to do a lot with policy. In this political cartoon you can see Dick Cheney swearing Senator. As the Senator is swearing you can see Dick Cheney saying negative comments.

Happy New Year

2008-12-31T21:59:00.000-08:00

What a perfect year to start by kicking Bush out of office. Well his terms serving as a president are over. As a lame duck he is not able to use his presidential powers. What a great way to celebrate by opening a champagne bottle which is demonstrated in the political cartoon. He leaves the office by apologizing to Americans citizens. He apologizes for the economy and also for the war of Iraq. I wondered what encourage him to apologize. Maybe what encourage him to apologize is because nothing has been solved, America is not gaining anything and also because he realizes how citizens are seriously being affected by it.
But out with the old, and in with the new!!! Bush is the old and Obama is the new. America needs a new start in order to clear our minds. With a clear mind we can think of how to prepare ourselves for the New Year and how to solve problems that we may encounter with in the future. Now what we can only do is sit down and see what the New Year brings us. Hopefully Obama does not abuse his power instead let’s hope that he uses his power to do good things. Pass laws that can help everyone, create more jobs for troubled citizens, and create treaties in order to establish peace amongst the world. This is our time to say goodbye to 2008 and welcome 2009.

New Year's Resolution

2008-12-31T21:42:00.000-08:00

Obama is going to face many problems that he needs to fix. As we are going to enter to a New Year hopefully is prepare to solve the endless list problems that United States is currently facing. However, individuals nominated Obama because maybe they have faith that he is the one to put America back into power and prosperity. As a president he has power to pass laws, veto, pardon, sign treaties, and many more numerous powers. In the political cartoon we see a troubled Obama who is being asked if he can improve the circumstances that America is currently going through.
If you ask me I believe Obama is already taking action by appointing individuals to create his National Security Team. Not only that he has also created a planned to resolve the turmoil economy by creating more jobs, finding alternative ways to save energy, and how to spend money properly. He is using his power properly for right now. Next Year is a great start for Obama to demonstrate what kind of president he will be and it is a perfect time for him to prove to America that he is ready to lead America. However, you may never what could happen next it is always a surprise. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!

Special Holidays

2008-12-31T21:00:00.000-08:00

Holidays are a time when people gather to celebrate and spread prosperity. It is a time of peace and tranquility. However, the political cartoon demonstrates instead of spreading peace we are spreading violence amongst the world. For example, American soldiers are fighting over in Iraq. Instead of spending time with their children and love ones they have to fight against Iraq who are considered as our enemies. It is ironic that America invaded Iraq to build Democracy and to establish peace amongst Israel and Muslim. But instead of creating peace we are only intensifying the situations. Sending bombs and weapons is not a way to resolve conflicts. Instead of resolving we are only building problems that affect other people. This year we have forgotten the meaning of peace. We have forgotten how to help individuals and how to spread love. Our holidays were interrupted by all the negativity and violence. We are going through a difficult time especially because of recession. Families are struggling of paying their bills, mortgages, and college tuition. It is time for everyone to remember the true meaning of holidays and the concept of peace. Hopefully next time individuals will remember to spread peace and love.

The Needs of Our Schools

2008-12-10T18:05:00.000-08:00

Due to the economy it is seriously affecting our education. Instead of focusing the difference between the rich and the poor we need to improve the school system in order to emphasize the importance of evaluation, critical, and creative thinking. Hopefully Obama can step in and appoint an intellectual individual as the secretary of education that can help by solving problems. Students are not the only people that are being affected by the economy but the teacher’s union is also struggling. The economy is causing a limitation by cutting down state aid, free waivers, and the other extra help that student receive. The Student Left Behind is just another burden that has been given to the states by affecting the school’s financial and the pressure of standardize tests. By improving our economy the next thing is to improve the school system. By improving our school system we can provide more school materials, be financially stable, and create a great environment for our students. Students would not only be benefited but teachers would also have a great place t work in. The teachers will be less tress and will devote more time to their students instead of fighting against the school district or school board. We need a great leader to be appointed as the secretary of education that is responsible and prepare to solve any problem that involves education.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/10/opinion/l10brooks.html?scp=4&sq=political%20issues&st=cse

Bush’s pardons

2008-12-03T21:13:00.000-08:00

In A.P. Government we have learned that the president has power to pardon. Pardon means the president has power to wipe out your criminal record. For example let say I killed a person the president can pardon me in other words to forget the act that I have committed but the president need to be careful of who to pardon if not he can damage his reputation. In this case Bush uses his power of pardon to wipe out the criminal records of his friends and political supporters. Just a week ago Bush issued fourteen pardons in total of one hundred seventy one pardons. Now comparing it to Bill Clinton he issued three hundred ninety six. Bush pardon former political officials such as Randy “Duke” Cunningham, Lewis “Scooter” Libby, Michael Milken, and Jeffrey K. Skilling. These people were convicted of accepting briberies, perjury, or committing white collar crimes. The constitution allows the president to issue pardons but the misuse or abusing pardons can taint the president. The pardon was designed to establish justice amongst the judicial system. In my opinion I believe Bush did not issue pardons correctly. The individuals need to take responsibility and accept their mistake. Instead of establishing justice Bush is just being unfair.

http://articles.latimes.com/2008/12/03/editorial_pages/ed-pardons3

A final turkey pardon, with a smile

2008-11-27T10:35:00.000-08:00

As Bush leaves the White House, he leaves with a great smile on his face. As a tradition a turkey named “Pumpkin” and another turkey name “Pecan” will be honored at Disneyland’s parade the happiest place on earth. However, the organization PETA objected Bush’s idea and instead they wanted Bush to send the turkeys in a better sanctuary place. Bush might be a lame duck right now but he can still make orders by protecting the turkeys. Since his two terms are almost done he is enjoying every last minute of it by attending a t ball game and a super bowl game. The most important part is when Bush gave thanks to the troops, teachers, pastors, American citizens, and his family. He continues his thanks by thanking Barbara Bush, Laura Bush, Jenna, Barbara, and his son in law Henry Hager for being a supportive family. Bush takes his final Thanksgiving and leaves respectfully thanking everyone. Now I am thankful for the American soldiers who are still in Iraq defending our country. I am thankful for the teachers because they teach us how to become independent and also how to express our ideas freely. I am also thankful for my friends because we been through a lot of things and because they are very supportive. Lastly, I am thankful for my family because they taught me how to dream big and how to pursue my dreams without ever giving up. I hope all you have a great thanksgiving. Happy thanksgiving everyone!
http://articles.latimes.com/2008/11/27/news/na-turkey-pardon27

Obama sends strong signals from the sidelines

2008-11-22T22:09:00.000-08:00

Barack Obama proposed a new plan to improve our turmoil economy. In this time of crises Obama announced a plan that will create 2.5 millions jobs in 2011. Citizens are waiting for Obama to take action in order to see improvements. This two year program might improve our economy and Obama is quickly taking charge. Obama has immediately moved his appointed cabinet to take over the White Office. He filled the White House with confident individuals eliminating negativity and uncertainty. Obama offered the position Treasure Secretary to Timothy F. Geithner, a person with experience. He also reached help from Hilary Clinton to be the country’s diplomat, who is very intelligent and well known around the round. Obama and his team have been discussing of how to develop a better economy. This new program will establish a strong economy by creating jobs for people to build bridges, roads, and schools. Also this plan will create alternative fuel energy instead of depending on foreign oil. This program will not only improve our economy but it will also help our environment. Now we can help Obama by supporting his ideas even I f we are republican, democrats, or independents. By helping and standing together as a team our economy and county can be on top again of the competition. I believe that Obama is working very hard and is very intelligent of how he handling the situation.

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/washingtondc/la-na-obama-team23-2008nov23,0,2412247.story

Was age really the big factor in Prop. 8 victory?

2008-11-13T18:28:00.000-08:00

If you are wondering how Proposition 8 was passed you may say that age had a great effect towards the Proposition. The difference between the generations greatly affects the Proposition because the youth generation and the older generation have different views. The young generation is more liberal and open minded while the older generation is more conservative and strict. Latinos between the ages of 18 through 29 voted against the Proposition. However, older individuals over the age of 65 voted yes on Proposition 8 helping to pass the Proposition. If the older generation would have not gone out to vote there might have been a probability that the Proposition would have not been passed. This controversial topic demonstrates the difference between the two generation instead of a racial conflict or ethnicity conflict. The differences still grows among the minorities communities who have strong beliefs towards the Proposition.
On the other hand, we can’t quickly blame specific people. We also need to see and understand the view of homosexuals. Despite the age, race, or religion it is very important that we analyze every point of view so we can view the big picture. You may never know perhaps our turmoil economy could have also affected the result of Proposition 8.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2008/11/was-age-really.html

2008-11-09T19:44:00.001-08:00

created at TagCrowd.com

In the acceptance speech of Obama he mentions how people came out to vote to create a new change. Obama demonstrates a sense of unity by mentioning how poor, rich, Latinos, Asian, Democrats and Republicans came out to vote. We are not the Red states or Blue states we are United States of America where we come together as one. In this special presidential election individuals voted to have their voices heard. Obama also thank Mc Cain and Sarah Palin for their hard work of campaigning. However, most importantly he thanks citizens that donated money to build his campaign the working men and women. Obama also discusses the hardships that every individual’s faces for instance lack of money to pay the rent, mortgage, doctor’s bill but we can overcome this. We are not alone we rise together and we fall together as one nation. As one we can bring change and hope. This election is when we can open doors, create jobs, and create opportunities for our children in the future. Together we can change America and whoever tries to oppose America we can defeat them. This is our chance to perfect America for our children who will see the progress in the future. Throughout the speech Obama was very optimistic and hopeful.

John McCain let Sarah Palin take us to the brink.

2008-11-06T20:44:00.000-08:00

The presidential election was very exciting it grab everyone attention. Now we all know that our president is Barack Obama. Individuals are debating if Sarah Palin cause Mc Cain to lose the election. Well we cannot only focus on Palin mistakes because there is other factor that may cause the presidential election for Mc Cain. Palin who did not know that Africa was a continent or important information could have become our vice president than god she is not. However, this demonstrates that politicians were protecting a clueless person and pushing her towards us. This election gave me a sense of entertainment. Presidential debates were once important but for this election we only watch it just to see who will “smack” talk or who will attack. Voters are becoming less educated on politics. Well I believe this election was very important but I only watch it for entertainment. Seeing Sara Palin explaining the republican’s plans for the future is what grabbed my attention because I knew she would commit another mistake. Who ever nominated Palin (Mc Cain or the Republican Party) should be held responsible for this clueless person. It should be a crime just by nominating her. However, thank god Obama is our president and let’s hope he can improve our economy.

http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/11/6/10291/5486/339/655620

Gay married couples face legal limbo if Prop. 8 passes

2008-10-30T21:15:00.000-07:00

If proposition 8 becomes a law it will band gay marriages. People are constantly fighting that marriage is between a man and a woman. Also some people view gay marriage as a sin. However, who are we to dictate people life, it is their choice not ours. The constitution was created to protect individuals’ rights not to take away people rights and if we allow Proposition 8 to be passed this will be the first law that will deprive our rights. Excluding homosexuals can be considered as discrimination. Now how can discrimination be part of America the land of the free? Instead of concentrating on the marriage between the same sexes we should carefully think about how we are being unjust and what kind of message we are sending to society. Allowing this proposition to be passed will only demonstrate how America discriminates individuals and the gate to discrimination will be open. Same sex marriages will also be extremely affected. Homosexuals that holds marriage license are questioning if their license will be taken away if the Proposition 8 passes. In my perspective no one should have power to determine which marriages are whether valid or invalid. If two people of the same sex are in love we cannot interfere their relationship.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-marriagelaw30-2008oct30,0,3560871.story

Who pays for Sarah Palin's kid's travel expenses? Taxpayers

2008-10-23T21:38:00.000-07:00

Who knew that Sarah Palin spends an estimated twenty thousand for a luxurious travel for her children. Since the governor of Alaska she has being charging the state for the expensive travels. Is it even necessary to fly her children to specific events I guess the tax payers are once again stuck in a situation that we do not deserve. The last thing that tax payers should not pay is for Palin’s children. If she wants to spend more time with her children then she should think about that before taking the role of vice president. Well at least Alaska is stuck paying the bill in that case I should for trip to Acapulco. The bills includes luxurious hotels, flights, and to watch her husband compete on a snowball race. However, Palin still insist if she is allowed to bring her children to the events. Isn’t this ridiculous or is it just me. Who will put a stop to Palin before the bill continues to grow. Did she forget that our economy is in turmoil because it is clear for everyone. Maybe she is not taking this election or the vice president position seriously. What on earth was Mc. Cain thinking of selecting Palin for vice president.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/thedishrag/2008/10/save-taxpayers.html

California issues plan to slash greenhouse gas emissions

2008-10-16T20:14:00.000-07:00

As we can all see we are going trough a weather crisis and global warming is getting worse. Finally the congress had decided to create a plan to save energy and to improve the weather change.
“California forged ahead Wednesday in its bold attempt to turn back the clock of climate change, issuing its final draft of an economy wide plan to slash the state's greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels.”
By reducing the green house emissions the carbon dioxide would decrease and the energy would also go down. Instead of abusing energy we can learn how to use energy in a unique way that can benefit us and would not harm our environment. For instance we can have cleaner cars and sufficient buildings and appliances that can save energy. However, businesses are fighting back against the plan stating that energy would increase. Instead of thinking the negative ideas it is time for the government to commit to a plan and try to improve our environment before it gets even worse. Its time to reduce the green houses and the carbon that keeps heating up the world. Global warming cause castratopies, reduces water supplies, and is harming the animal population. But we can change the future if we become committed and work as a team.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/politics/cal/la-me-climate16-2008oct16,0,852077.story

Obama's, and our, iceberg

2008-10-09T20:39:00.000-07:00

Is Obama or Mc Cain great candidates to help recover our turmoil economy? To tell you the truth my opinion is that I do not think any candidate is prepared to become the president and to help improve the economy. Both of the candidates keep on saying that the economy will not get worse it will get better. If you cannot admit that our economy is in the worst stage right now and that it will not get worse then how can you help improve the economy. It is very obvious that the candidates will say anything that you want to hear it will be okay nothing will happen. Their only main concern is to get the votes to become president. But what is the point of them of working so hard to gain a lot of points if they do not have a clue of how to improve the economy. Right now my main concern is how I am going to pay for college when the economy is in turmoil. I would ask the candidates but they only give short direct answers. Hopefully all the promises that Obama makes he will stick to it. Also I hope Obama has a strong plan for the economy and hopefully individuals are getting educated and inform about the situations that is going to affect us in the future. The first step is to recognize that we have a problem then the second step is to analyze the problem and try to come up with a resolution.

http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/la-oe-brooks9-2008oct09,0,6614742.column

Daily Kos Palin continues to hurt McCain

2008-10-02T20:59:00.000-07:00

When Palin was elected to become the running mate of Mc Cain some republicans individuals approved of her. She gave a great speech at the convention and she is viewed with great respect. Republicans began to create a story for Palin a mother who is like every individual eating burgers, soccer mom, and raising a family. By having Palin as a running mate Mc Cain gains a big boost receiving a lot of supporters. However, we can forget that Palin does not have a lot of experience, terrible interviews, and can we question her family values. While Obama has been accused of being a celebrity Palin also stands in that same position of acting like a celebrity. Palin gained attention for the Republican Party without Palin Mc Cain would not be as successful as he is today. While the democrats have been shut down and gave Bush the opportunity to fight “terrorism” and the war of Iraq I think it’s a time for change. Also let’s not forget when Bush main focus to secure the borders Kennedy was attack for his military service at Vietnam claiming how America destroyed, raped, and killed well at least he told the truth. It is a very good thing that M Cain selected Palin because we can see how she can answer question without being watch by Mc Cain their precious celebrity.
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/10/2/123143/594/606/617748

Mc Cain's Bailout:Bush to the Rescue

2008-09-25T12:35:00.000-07:00

Was it a smart choice to call off the debate?
"John McCain had just made one of the riskiest, and perhaps costliest, moves of his presidential campaign, in attempting to bail out of the first televised debate of the candidates so that he could return to Washington." Individuals are very confuse why Mc Cain cancel his first televised debate. This decision that he made can maybe hurt his campaign and how people will look at him. Individuals are saying that maybe he canceled the debate because the votes that Obama is gaining or perhaps the siation with the economy. "An economic crisis of proportions unseen since the Great Depression started unfolding. And Obama's numbers started climbing, with voters telling the pollsters." However, Obama accepted the debate which increased his benifit for his campaogn. People began to look at him as the best suitable candidate to help improve our economy. By accepting the debate he put Mc Cain in a bad position by making him look untruthsworthy, unrealiable, and letting down the country. Now Mc Cain needs to come up with an excellent event, idea, or maybe an apologuu to gain back the trust of the Americans.. In order to win this presidential election candidates should think of how their campaign is going to be affected before they make their election.
http://www.swamppolitics.com/news/politics/blog/2008/09/mccains_bailout_bush_to_the_re.html

Michelle Obama: Cute Vote Misplaced

2008-09-18T20:56:00.001-07:00

“People shouldn't make a decision this time based on, 'I like that guy' or 'she's cute,'" she said, without mentioning Palin.”
Hopefully people are taking this election very seriously. Who cares if the candidate is cute or ugly. What is more important is to understand if the candidate is the right person to improve America and can handle important situations that affects everybody’s daily life. Media makes a big influence on individuals. Media teaches individuals how a person should look basically saying that appearance is very important. In reality appearances is not important it can only take us that far. The novel that I read for A.P English Amusing Ourselves To Death also mentions how individuals elect presidents base on their appearance. It doesn’t matter if the president is fat, skinny, tall, or short. People come in different sizes and color. Its time to change this notion and educate children how to be more open minded. I prefer electing a candidate base on experiences and on his/her education level. I want to know if I’m voting for a candidate that can help me but also the society. Right now we are going trough a difficult well that’s what I think. Our economy is suffering, students continue to drop out, and families are having a difficult time. I f the candidate is not prepare to help or these standards then I would not vote for him. I don’t care if he is the hottest guy ever I could care about looks.
http://topics.latimes.com/politics/people/michelle-obama

Rove to Obama Attacking Palin is Dumb

2008-09-11T19:56:00.000-07:00

I agree with Karl Rove’s advice, Obama should not think about Palin and just focus on his campaign winning the presidential election. It is very difficult to win an election especially choosing strategies but by attacking Palin this can back fire Obama. I’m not saying Palin is a great person for Vice President, well in my eyes but other people can see Obama attacking Palin as a negative way. This can affect his voters and maybe women too because Palin is a woman. The only reason Mc Cain nominated Palin is because she is a woman which means he will receive votes from women it’s not for her experience or leadership that what I think. For Obama he should just continue with his speeches and think how he can win an election without being immature and loosing his dignity and respect. I rather win with my head up high, gain respect, and still have my dignity I don’t care if people attack me with negative comments because I know what I’m capable of doing hopefully Obama can understand that instead of risking the presidential election. Obama believes we can make a difference which we can. It’s time for us to make a change and this election will determine if we are ready for a change only we can control the future.

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/09/11/rove-to-obama-attacking-palin-is-dumb/

Cafferty: Should McCain consider replacing Palin?

2008-09-03T21:15:00.000-07:00

Is Sarah Palin a great person for Vice President? Well John Mc Cain elected Palin as his running companion however, who is Sarah Palin? Palin is the governor of Alaska and a mother of a teenage daughter. Just recently the media has announced that Palin’s 17th year old daughter is pregnant and unmarried. Now do we really want Palin to represent United States while her daughter is pregnant? Now what kind of message are we sending to teenagers and women by nominating Palin as the Vice President. It is very clear that Palin is having a difficult time of raising her family and establishing morals. We want a Vice President that has time to resolve political issues, devote their time to politics, and built a good future for America not a pregnancy. Now by having her 17th year old daughter at the GOP convention is not a great idea. In every convention America should be represented by great leaders that knows how to responsibly lead America into a prosperous future and knows how to raise their family. If Bill Clinton was impeached because of the affair scandal why should this be any different? If Bill Clinton was impeached what kind of consequences will Palin face. Palin’s 17th year old daughter should have thought of this before becoming pregnant.
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/09/03/cafferty-should-mccain-consider-replacing-palin/

John McCain, Barack Obama trade jabs over Iraq again

2008-08-18T16:51:00.000-07:00

It is very clear that Obama and Mc Cain are two different candidates with distinctive ideas. Obama represents the Democrat party while Mc Cain represents the Republican Party. Since the war of Iraq many individuals have been praying for the American soldiers to come back home. Well maybe the soldiers might come back home. Obama wants to end the war and use the money here at home where is definitely needed. However, Mc Cain a Vietnam veteran plans to invest $10 billion a month for the war because he wants to win. Win what don’t ask me I don’t know. Instead of spending a lot of money for an unnecessary war we should put America first. Right now we are going through recession, conflict between Russia and Georgia, high schools drop outs, poor families struggling to put food for their children, poor health care, and the list can go on for a long time. What exactly are we doing in Iraq and are we even going to gain anything by it? We are only causing destruction and endangering American soldier’s lives including the people in Iraq. Mc Cain is crazy if he plans to invest money for the dumb war because our economy is suffering. Like Obama its time to bring our soldiers home and spend the money correctly.
http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-na-campaign19-2008aug19,0,7521777.story

Russia vs Georgia

2008-08-13T19:32:00.000-07:00

While Bush was at China having a great time, Russia and Georgia started a conflict and we all thought the war of Iraq was enough well I guess one more problem doens'n hurt. Bush strongly believe Russia's action is completely out of control .Therefore, he decided to send Condoleezaa Rice and Robert M Gates to deliver a personal letter from Bush to Kremlin to negotiate about missiles and coorperation. The last thing that we need right now is another problem. By (U.S) entering into this conflict we are going to start another war and who knows it can turn into World War 3. Helping Georgia by building their military and by not allowing Georgia in the discussion will start a ridiculious problem. Some American individuals wants America to step in and help Georgia to fight against Russia. They even want America to send weapons over to Georgia however, we need to think about our actions and what kind of consequences may occur. Russia does not stand corretly for attacking Georgia but right now Bush's administration needs to think more thoroughly before we send mix signals to Russia but I think we already accomplish that.
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/washingtondc/la-fg-usrussia13-2008aug13,0,729074.story

Gas

2008-08-11T16:24:00.000-07:00

Many American individuals are complaining of the gas prices stating that it's too expensive. Obama believes that the situation with the gas that is occurring should be a political issue. Obama strongly believes that American families needs help and relief because of hardships that they go through in their daily life. He proposes to get more oil by drilling in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.As for Mc Cain he wants to propose gas tax holiday instead of offshore drilling. However, is it true that the gas prices right now is affordable. American citizens are mentioning that the gas prices is to expensive and for that reason they are having difficult time with transportation. Americans want this situation to be acknowledge as a political issue. Well it is true that gas prices is high? as a future president they should take time to discuss more over of the situation and find a better resolution that can benefit the economy as well as the American citizens. Gas might have been more expensive during the 1960's but it's 2008 and most citizens claim that the gas price is too high. Unusually right now the gas prices are dropping hopefully it continues to drop so families all over America are more happy and ready to travel to unique places. Mc Cain and Obama are two different candidates with different ideas hopefully you can decide which candidate best fits your criteria chart. http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-veterans10-2008aug10,0,6583664.story?track=rss

Obama vs. Mc Cain

2008-08-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

Is it just me but is this presidential election ridiculous. Recently Mc Cain attacked Obama by comparing him to Paris Hilton who is a big air head. As a defense Obama also attacked Mc Cain by creating his own ad but most importantly Obama play a racist card. For this reason many American citizens were upset because of the action that Obama committed. Obama keeps claiming of how unique he is and how different he is from the other presidents that had led America. Instead of arguing of none sense they should discuss more about the economy which is really important right now because America is going through recession. Therefore they can debate of how they can improve the economy instead of fighting each other like little kids. What America needs is a great leade that is ready to take charge and lead America into power because right now America is going downhill rapidly. Now what kind of president do you want a president that takes charge or a president that keeps creating stupid ads just to defend himself. Obama should have just ignore Mc Cain accusation and continue with his campaign as a civilize person he could have look like a bigger person and not started a racist controversy situation. I guess both of the presidential candidates needs to grow up.http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-na-campaign12-2008aug12,0,2016739.story