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url: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc9PepjyDow
The LA Times has published an article today criticizing Senator Obama's refusal to hand out cash to ward leaders and party bosses in an effort to GOTV in Philadelphia on election day. Philadelphia is supposed to be a machine city which depends on grease in order to get a candidate elected. The Times article's main criticism against Obama is that he is disrespecting the culture of machine politics by not paying street money. It boggles the mind that paying people to volunteer and vote is considered okay by certain cities. First of all, it's a citizen's civic duty to vote and if they choose to volunteer for a campaign, it seems a little ridiculous to expect payment. This system of street money reminds me of Tammany Hall where people were told to vote a certain way and given money for it. I hope Obama stands by his refusal to patronize this borderline corruption. He's going to lose Pennsylvania anyway, but at least he loses it with his principles intact.
I know it's a little early to be wondering who Obama would pick to be his running mate but I'm curious what others have to say on the subject.
Tim Kaine- Governor of Virginia, he's popular and he's from a southern state.
Chuck Hagel- Republican, he fits the bringing people together message, he's a strong critic of Bush's administration.
Kathleen Sebelius- She's from a red state, she was named as one of the best governors by Time.
Jim Webb- Military, from a southern state, impressive at the Senate hearings, strong critic of Iraq war, could definitely help with "Reagan Democrats."
Bill Richardson- Governor of New Mexico, lots of experience as a representative, ambassador to the UN and was Secretary of Energy. Popular governor in a must win state.
Janet Napalitano- Governor of Arizona, also one of the top five best governors in Time magazine. Her strengths are in immigration and education. I don't know who's more popular in AZ Janet or John?
Russ Feingold- opposed war when it was unpopular to do so, voted against the Patriot Act, came out looking like a star yesterday during the Petraeus/Crocker hearings. He's credible on "reaching across the aisle" threshold. Supports single payer healthcare reform. I don't know if he could help with "blue collar workers."
Wesley Clark- retired four star general. I still don't understand how he didn't win the nomination in 2004.
Hillary Clinton- 'nuf said.
What do you think?
