On High Alert

This country’s most recent run-in with terrorism has set off many red flags in the minds of Americans. President Obama verbally attacked his national security team yesterday for not recognizing the threat posed by Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab. The Nigerian man was able to board a Northwest flight from Amsterdam to Detroit on Christmas Day with explosives in his underwear. He will be in a federal courtroom this afternoon. But the questions raised by the incident refuse to go away, no matter how much the Obama administration would like to quiet the matter.

In the wake of 9/11, how was a suspected terrorist able to board an international flight with today’s security measures?

If the U.S. had the information to prevent the botched attack, why were government officials not able to piece it together in time to stop Abdulmutallab from boarding the flight?

Who should take responsibility for the incident?

Will the Obama Administration’s recently revamped security measures prevent any further attempts to terrorize American airplanes?

Is safety in the 21st century an illusion?

These are all good questions with not so easy answers. Safety must be the chief purpose of the government. Without it, philosopher Thomas Hobbes would say, “human life would be nasty, brutish, and short.” Now America is a long way from the “state of nature” described here. But clearly the world’s skies are not as safe as we might have thought. I think we are safer than we were before 9/11, but only to a certain extent. Officials can implement all the security measures in the world and concerns will still exist. And at some point, personal freedom comes into the conversation. The new body scanners have raised privacy concerns that the government feels justified in violating. We sacrifice some freedom to the government in order to ensure our survival (another belief of Hobbes). But should the government have the ability to run a full body scan in a public airport on each citizen?

Perhaps the answer to it all lies in America playing offense rather than defense in fighting terror. We must take the fight to their backyards rather than give them the opportunity to test our security safeguards. And this is a reality that I do not believe the Obama Administration has fully understood. This county must go to great extents to extinguish terrorism wherever it exists; on the streets of Baghdad, in the mountains of Afghanistan, or in the capitol of Iran. Sitting back, waiting for threats to come our way will only further burden the people’s fate in its government’s ability to keep them safe. Until this administration is willing to play to win rather than to not lose, its citizens remain…on high alert.

RIP Ted Kennedy

If you didn't know better you would have thought the procession through Washington, D.C. was for the passing of a President not a Senator. But then again Ted Kennedy was no ordinary Senator. He was the most prominent living member of America's royal family. And for many years...46 of them in fact...he rung the bell for liberals on Capitol Hill. That's not to say he wasn't wrong, or terrible misguided on many issues. The "cause of his life" was universal healthcare and no doubt many democrats will use his death as political firewood to stir up more debate on this bankrupt endeavor. However, I saw Ted Kennedy as a very honest man and I think many of his downfalls were brought on by the way he was raised. His trouble with women became well documented in the press. Many could also never forgive him for fleeing the scene of a car wreck on Chappaquiddick Island. The passenger, Mary Jo Kopechne, died that night and the incident damaged his chances of ever becoming President. But he owned up to his mistake by asking the Massachusetts electorate whether he should stay in office. We all know he did and he went on to pass more that 300 bills on immigration, AIDS reform, education, and civil rights. And though I supported the Republican resurgence in 96', it wouldn't have been anywhere near as interesting without Kennedy's vocal opposition. May the Lion of the Senate rest in peace...

Bunning Bows Out

The flood gates have opened...Kentucky Senator Jim Bunning will not seek re-election in 2010. Bunning's announcement Monday wasn't a shock to many GOP leaders in the Bluegrass...it was almost expected. The 77 year old pitcher turned politician struggled to raise the necessary money it would take to run a competitive race, blaming fellow Republicans for drying up his funds. Bunning wouldn't point out particular backstabers, but its well known that Kentucky's other senator...Mitch McConnell...has been leading a rebellion against him. The news excited Secretary of State Trey Grayson and Bowling Green Physician Rand Paul as both Republicans have been on the sidelines waiting to jump into a Bunning-less race. It's expected there so called "exploratory committees" will turn into full-flegged campaigns in the days to come. The path is perhaps trickier to navigate for Liet. Gov. Daniel Mongiardo and AG Jack Conway...Democrats who declared their intention to run months ago. Mongiardo and Conway would have benefited from all the gunfire within the GOP had Bunning stayed in the race. Even with Bunning's departure, deciding on a favorite this early in the race would be foolish. Nevertheless, the change is landscape is important to note.

America's Slobbering Love Affair: Brett Favre

Like the left-wing media and Barack Obama during the presidential election...the sports world can't get enough of Brett Favre. The latest episode of the soap opera played out on the premiere of "Joe Buck Live" on HBO last night. When asked by Buck if he would come out of retirement to play again, Favre said..."Ummm...maybe." Favre's reply was unsatisfactory to Buck who pressed the three time NFL MVP for a sure answer. One things for certain...if he's coming back...it will be in a Vikings uniform. Minnesota is the only team Favre has spoken to and according to Favre it would be a "perfect fit" considering he knows the Vikings offense, "well enough to teach it." The ol' gunslinger did verify that he recently underwent arthroscopic surgery on his throwing arm and will know in several weeks whether he'll be able to put on the cleats for a 19th NFL season. Favre said he realizes that people are tired of the roller coaster ride of drama ESPN has taken us on these past couple of weeks. "It is what it is," said Favre. So what's the big picture here? Do we take Favre at his word or say enough is enough from Mr. Congeniality? At times during the interview...Favre looked completely honest and real...understanding that his legacy and image were at stake with the viewer at home. However, small smirks also broke out on his face when asked if he would return...leading you to think he actually was enjoying that roller coaster ride spoken of above. Though Favre has appeared to turn his back on the Packers and Jets front office; I don't believe the quarterback ever gave up on his teammates when he was with those organizations. He's one of the greatest competitors to ever play the game...and finding a way to feed that hunger without the game of football is something I believe Favre has struggled with more than other past NFL greats (and I ultimately think that is what keeps him coming back). So the "hatters" take that Favre is stirring the pot as a way to continue to put the spotlight on himself...for selfish reasons...is something I do not think he is into. Favre commented that he rarely sees reports about himself in the media....and I can't picture him sitting at home smiling as SportsCenter reports on the latest dose of Brett Favre news. His foundation has donated over $2 million to charities in Mississippi and Wisconsin. On the other hand, Favre has made many mistakes...going into and coming out of retirement on more than one occasion (mistakes I think he would acknowledge). He hasn't been able to make decisions in a decent timeframe regarding his comeback(s). This has largely led to the demise of strong frienships he's built with the city of Green Bay and the Packers organization from 92-08. Though, we now know ESPN was wrong in reporting there ever was a timeframe between the Vikings and Favre (I think there's a whole lot behind the scenes we don't know). And like so many of us who wake up each morning and feel differently about an issue...Favre wants to ensure that he's doing the right thing with regards to playing in the NFL. He doesn't want to do it half-heartedly or have it make a negative impact on his family. Cut the man some slack...at least enough for him to continue to make the sports world interesting. At any rate...it's great TV! And please...stay tuned for the next episode of "America's Slobbering Love Affair: Brett Favre."

2012: The Year of Hope for the Party of Lincoln

The countdown on hannity.com says it all...Republicans are ready for change. Just 4 months into office, the American people have seen a lot from the 44th President. The closing of Gitmo, the lift of the ban on stem cell research, a new stimulus bill, car bailouts and failures, a new budget that forces the Government to borrow $0.50 on every $1, new emission standards, a Supreme Court Nominee, speech to the Muslim world, etc. No doubt, even greater socialistic-like policies await. Therefore, Republicans simply can't wait until the 2016 election to put a elephant in the White House. Universal Healthcare (as defined by this administration) will be all but a reality by that point in time. Republicans have to get back to the drawing board in order to solidify support around an individual that can lead the country. Someone who possesses the conservative qualities to appeal to the GOP base, who can still pick up moderate votes along the way. And so...with 1243 days till the 2012 Presidential Election, Yours Truly decided to put on the pundit helmet and throw out possible Republican hopefuls...

Rush Limbaugh...you must be kidding right? The critically acclaimed "Voice of the GOP" has taken a severe stance on the current administration and with nearly 15 million tuning in mon-fri to listen to his banter...he has quite a following. Slim chance the talk show host runs, however...after all Republicans need someone to turn to day in and day out for comfort. Rowe's Rating *

Sarah Palin...how could she not run? A shocking pick by John McCain as his Vice Presidential candidate in 08', the Alaska Govenor shows all the signs of running in 12'. She'll get re-elected in her home state for 10'. She's already gone through the mad criticism machine that is the left-wing media. She appeals to many in middle America. She'll have more years of experience as a govenor by 12'. However, she's not too popular with moderates and even many conservatives in the party do not care for her much. Bottom Line...Republicans are best to pass on Palin for the 12' nomination. She's a patriot...but many will never give her the 2nd shot she deserves. Rowe's Rating...**

Haley Barbour...Govenor of Mississippi. A Southernor who has done an unbelievable job restoring the ravaged coast of his state following Hurrican Katrina. No one will question his ability to handle a crisis. Because of term limits in his state...he can't run for govenor again...a fact that makes it more likely he'll run for President. He's got some baggage that NBC wouldn't have to dig to deep to find, however. Rowe's Rating...**

Bobby Jindal...Governor of Louisiana. For one, he's an Asian running a Southern State. Maybe that helps attract minorities in 12'? After Hurricane Katrina the state of Louisiana looked like the underworld. Homes destroyed, lives lost, cities in rubble...it was a mess. Jindal takes some credit for turning the state around. Not the most charasmatic, however. Rowe's Rating...**

Tim Pawlenty...Govenor of the Minnesota. He was just passed over by McCain for the 08' VP nominee. He can appeal to the broad base. He can win the Great Lake States (exception of Illinois). He's not too well known, however. He'll be a player for the 12' nomination...Rowe's Rating...***

Mark Sanford...Govenor of South Carolina. A Conservative from a Southern State who will not only bring smiles to the faces of Republicans, but to the faces of Libertarians as well. A Reformer, but again...not a lot of name recognition. He could win back some of the states lost in the 08' election however. Rowe's Rating...***

Mike Huckabee...Fmr. Governor of Arkansas, Southern Baptist Minister, and Host of Huckabee on Fox News. I was worried that after the election...Huckabee would fall off the map. The exact opposite has happened...he's weighed in heavily on the political scene keeping his followers and critics close. A man I felt should have grabbed the nomination in 08' is likely to run in 12'. He's got the values and experience to run this grand country. As the people in Iowa found out...he's a very likeable guy...it's just takes time for the magic to wear on. But, will he run (I hope....)?Rowe's Rating...****

Newt Gingrich...Fmr. Speaker of the House, Fox News Contributor, and Author. Of everyone I've mentioned...I think Newt's the strongest. He knows the political spectrum better than anyone I've ever seen. He's got the experience...and the facts and charisma to go with them. In 95' he was Time Magazine's Person of the Year...leading the Republican Revolution that took back the House after 40 years of Democratic domination. Can Newt Gingrich bring hope to the Party of Lincoln? Rowe's Rating *****

But, it's early, more faces will appear on the scene as the months and years fly by...

The Confirmation Battle Begins

The President's first nominee to the nation's highest court, Sonia Sotomayor, will begin the long, painstaking confirmation process Tuesday. The formal hearing is still a month or more away, but the ever important private meetings with top senators will take place in the days to come. Sotomayor will be asked about her views on gay rights, abortion, affirmative action, judicial temperament, constitutional interpretation, etc. She'll have to clarify an outrageous statement she made about a wise latino women possessing more judgement than that of a white male. Sotomayor will also have to answer for many of her rulings that, on paper, seem to discriminate against whites...the firemen case is an example of this notion. She's gone through a similar process twice before...approved as a federal trial judge in 92' and when she was elevated to NY's Second Circuit Court of Appeals, her current post, in 97'. The stakes, however, weren't as high as they are now. Her appointment will be for life and she will be ruling in Obama ideology long after he leaves the White House. Hopefully, Republicans will ignore the far left zealots and haters who paint any criticism against this woman as racial discrimination. This nomination is too important for the Grand Ole Party to run and hide!

Where's W. Now?

Since George W. left Washington in January he's largely avoided much of the social spotlight in light of a quieter, more laid back retirement. Though the Bush bashing from the late night talk show hosts, the NY Times, and NBC News has not completely resided, they have switched much of their focus to the "awe-factor" of President Obama. The former President only serves as a blame child for any mistakes the great change agent makes. The reason I bring all of this up is due to an article published in Newsweek Magazine this past week. These are the same folks who published an article on "The Decline and Fall of Christian America." So even before I perused the info they managed to scrape up on him (Bush didn't voluntarily contriubute to their story...as he shouldn't...Newsweek is an extremely left-wing operation out to get him), I knew what I was getting into. As we all know, Laura and George have settled in a suburb of Dallas in a neighboorhood that Newsweek magazine feels is full of Bush blow-hards...rich oilmen and executives alike. They insisted on pointing out that Bush's homestate of Texas was a wealthy benefactor for him during his rise from the governorship to the Presidency and now to mention his name, even within Republican circles, "is a little like Lord Voldemort's" (chief villan of the Harry Potter book and movie series). "It is a name that shall not be spoken," a reply Newsweek got out of a political consultant Bill Miller. They pointed out that Bush dropped by a local elementary school and he asked the children if they knew who he was. One child replied, "George Washington?" To which George W. replied...George Washington Bush (what a comeback!). Newsweek also made a point to mention that Democrats have made solid gains in the state once a Republican Machine...Obama secured 44% of the vote in Texas during the election and Kerry only picked up 38%. Newsweek forgets one of Texas' own ran in 2004...naturally the Republicans get a greater share of the vote. Texas has always had a strong Democratic hold as well...what about LBJ? They brought up the fact George W. is raising money for his new Presidential Library which will be built on the campus of Southern Methodist University, which according to Newsweek will, "wound the school's academic independence in the process." The whole article was a disgrace for the once famed Newsweek brand. I truly believe that Bush's image 20-25 years down the road will be greatly improved. Bush is slated to release his memoir currently titled "Decision Points" in 2012 which I believe will be a solid defense and insight into many of the reasons he chose to make some of the costly decisions he did while in office. We've heard enough testimony from the prosecution on the failures of the Bush Administration (NY Times, NBC News, etc.)...I'm ready for the defense!