MarkCurtisMedia Political Blog

News: Sunlite Bicycle Tube, 700 x 35-43 SCHRADER Valve, 48mm

2012-01-30T13:47:00.001-08:00

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News: Thule 958 Parkway 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack (2-Inch Receiver)

2012-01-30T07:16:00.001-08:00

2 bike capacity 2″ receivers only
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Fits all types of bikes with dual arm design
Can be upgrades with STL Snug tite hitch lock
Convenient vehicle access with tilt down feature

$ 138.95
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Thule 958 Parkway 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack (2-Inch Receiver)

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2012-01-28T03:27:00.001-08:00

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2012-01-28T03:22:00.001-08:00

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2012-01-16T04:30:00.001-08:00

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Free Webinar: Google / SEO - Top Ten Free Tools

2012-01-12T09:27:00.001-08:00

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My New Website and Blog Have Launched

2008-08-21T21:22:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

Dear Readers:

I am thrilled to announce that my brand new blog and website have launched at: www.MarkCurtisMedia.com. This comes just in time for my coverage of the Democratic Convention in Denver, then the Republican Convention in St. Paul.

The new blog will be much more interactive and will feature many more multimedia options, including more video! It was built and will be operated by Dagaz Solutions of Danville, California. www.dagazsolutions.com.

The new website will also allow visitors to subscribe to my RSS feed, and we will now be able to accept paid advertising!

Don't forget, MarkCurtisMedia.com is a full-service media and public relations company. We produce videos, publicity campaigns, commercial voice-overs, media writing in all styles, and media training!

I am looking forward to my latest political travels, too! Remember, you can find all our information and stories in one easy, central location. Tell your friends, and switch to: www.MarkCurtisMedia.com.

It's only a deal if it's where you want to go. Find your travel deal here.

Has Russia Forced Obama's Hand?

2008-08-20T16:20:00.000-07:00

(Danville, California)

While we await the official announcement by Barack Obama of his chosen running mate, I wonder whether the foreign policy developments of the past ten days have forced his hand. Today a new poll shows John McCain leading Obama nationally by five percentage points. That's a stunning turnaround for McCain.

Why the improvement in McCain's numbers? Well, maybe his longer resume, military credentials and life experience matter to many independent and previously undecided voters.

No one foresaw Russia's invasion of Georgia. Many people had thought Vladimir Putin was at least a "reasonable" Russian/Soviet leader, if there is really such a thing.

In any case, I wonder whether now Obama has only one choice for VP, that being Delaware Senator Joe Biden. Biden, who chairs the crucial Foreign Relations Committee, has thirty-six years in the Senate. He may be about to become the "Dick Cheney" of the Democratic Party,

I say that not because Biden and Cheney share a similar world view. They don't. But what they hold in common is deep Washington and foreign-policy experience, and each has begrudging respect from the other side of the political aisle. Cheney was brought in to shore up George W. Bush's perceived lack of experience, and he made people feel more comfortable with the top of the ticket. Obama has similar problems, and his picking Sen. Evan Bayh or Gov. Tim Kaine at this point won't ease the concerns of the voters.

As CBS political analyst Jeff Greenfield recently noted, Obama is looking for a "graybeard," a respected party elder with a resume. Today, filmmaker Michael Moore suggested Obama pick Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg, daughter of the late President. Is he crazy? Obama needs a Darth Vader more than he needs a Camelot!

Oddly, Vladimir Putin may have forced Obama's hand in this decision. Suddenly John McCain's steely-eyed temperament looks more reassuring than Obama's willingness to negotiate with wayward foreign leaders. We'll see how voters judge this moment.

It's what I call "the politics of unforeseen events." Things no one is expecting can turn the landscape 180 degrees in politics, and this is one of those times. Two weeks ago, Evan Bayh might have been a shoe-in for the VP sweepstakes. Today Joe Biden looks like the all-but-certain pick.

The announcement could come at any moment. Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com. And remember! The all new blog is coming soon, as I get ready to hit the road to both political conventions.

It's only a deal if it's where you want to go. Find your travel deal here.

Mark Curtis Speaks with "Greg and Rosie" on KGO

2008-08-19T14:39:00.000-07:00

If you would like to download this mp3 to your computer or your iPod right click the link above, then download.

KGO Radio

California 11th Congressional Race Heats Up

2008-08-16T12:39:00.001-07:00

(San Ramon, California)

Political observers are calling the California 11th one of the closest Congressional races in the nation. Last week I interviewed incumbent Rep. Jerry McNerney. This week we caught up with Republican challenger Dean Andal. The topic of our first "blog video debate" was the nation's energy policy. Click below for Dean Andal's response to McNerney's video last week:

Dean Andal is a former member of the California Assembly. The respected Rothenberg Political Report currently rates this race as "Toss Up - Tilts Democrat."

I will be attending both political conventions beginning next Sunday, August 24, in Denver. To coincide with that, the all-new "Mark Curtis Media" political blog is coming soon. Keep checking back at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos.

Comcast Newsmaker part 2

2008-08-15T20:36:00.001-07:00

Comcast Newsmaker part 2

2008-08-15T19:53:00.001-07:00

Comcast Newsmaker part 2

2008-08-15T19:52:00.001-07:00

Did Edwards Cost Hillary the Nomination?

2008-08-15T09:57:00.000-07:00

(Danville, California)

In politics it's always interesting to speculate, especially on "what might have been." There has been a lot of chatter this past week about whether John Edwards and his affair might have cost Hillary Clinton the nomination.

The theory works like this: Had the press reported the suspected affair (and it now appears some mainstream news outlets knew about it), then Edwards would have been forced to drop out, even before the Iowa caucuses. The theory further postulates that Clinton would have picked up most of Edwards's supporters, launching her past Obama.

My analysis of this consists of yes; no; and maybe.

YES: Obama was clearly the most liberal of the three candidates, with Edwards and Clinton operating more to his right. In addition, Clinton could have picked up on Edwards's appeal to rural and white Southern voters, a constituency she did well with in later primaries. But would it have helped her in Iowa?

NO: Some are making the assumption that white voters who backed Edwards would have simply shifted over to Clinton because she is white. This is a bad assumption and - quite honestly - not very deep political analysis. To assume everything is race-based is a mistake. After all, Obama won Iowa, a state that is 97 percent white.

You also have to look at a candidate's negatives. Some people were turned off by Hillary simply because of "Clinton fatigue." Her husband had his eight years, and now it was time to move on to someone else in the party. Obama was the candidate of "change," a word that really resonated. Edwards also ran as a Washington outsider who was going to shake things up. Had Edward dropped out early, it's plausible a lot of those "change" voters would have gone to Obama, not Clinton, especially those voters under 30.

MAYBE: Still, I am realist. Iowa was NOT a landslide by any means. The final count was: Obama 37.6 percent; Edwards 29.7 percent; and Clinton 29.5 percent. Remove Edwards, and Hillary would have finished a much closer second at the very least. She was an upset winner in New Hampshire, and that gave her candidacy more life and momentum. Had she won both Iowa and New Hampshire, her campaign would have had that air of inevitability that she so badly wanted. That momentum might have caused a better result for her on Super Tuesday, sealing the deal.

The problem is, we'll never know. We spend a lot of time speculating in politics. If only there weren't voting irregularities in Illinois in 1960, Nixon would have won; if only Ross Perot didn't run in 1992, Bush Sr. would have been re-elected; if only Ralph Nader hadn't run in 2000, Al Gore might be President today. The list could go on.

My point is, what's done is done. There aren't any "do overs" in politics (and indeed in most of life). We are simply left to wonder.

My "all new" blog is coming soon! Keep checking in for details at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos.

New Media Is the Future at Every Turn

2008-08-11T15:13:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

They are hungry, and they are hunting us down at every twist and turn in this campaign. No, I am not talking about the voracious appetites of Bill Clinton and Newt Gingrich. I 'm talking about the "New Media!"

Last night I received an email from Barack Obama's campaign. The promise: If I sign up for an email alert or a text message alert, then I will be among the first to be notified by text when he picks his VP running mate. Supposedly, I and a few of his closest thousands of friends will be the first to know, even before the mainstream media. Of course this "exclusive" to my cell phone should last all of ten seconds, because every reporter in the nation is being invited to sign up.

If you want to sign up, just dial 62262 from your cell phone and text the message: "VP." (Standard text rates apply.)

Sure, it's a clever gimmick; but it is generating buzz. It was all over CNN today; and when I spoke to the Danville Rotary Club today, people were asking about it. So while the big, "old media" dinosaurs keep eating dandelions next to the freeway, the "new media" race cars are speeding past, down the freeway. The future is now, on the Internet, and the Obama campaign has been way out in front of everyone else. UC Berkeley has launched the Center for New Media, and millions in donations are pouring in from people like my friend Craig Newmark, founder of Craigslist (www.craigslist.org). I took a graduate course there last summer, and it was VERY eye-opening. The old world of newspapers, radio and TV will either have to adapt or fade away.

Speaking of new media, the "all new" Mark Curtis political blog is coming your way soon, just in time for the political conventions. Watch for updates at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos.

Mark Curtis on KGO Radio

2008-08-11T07:30:00.000-07:00

If you would like to download this mp3 to your computer or your iPod right click the link above, then download.

KGO Radio

Political Analyst Mark Curtis on "Comcast Newsmakers" Part 2

2008-08-09T16:09:00.001-07:00

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California Congressional Race Tops in the Nation

2008-08-09T15:32:00.001-07:00

(Dublin, California)

The 11th District Congressional seat from California is considered by many political watches as one of the most competitive in the country. A few weeks ago, I spoke with Republican challenger Dean Andal. Today I caught up with first term Democrat Rep. Jerry McNerney at "meet and greet" with voters outside the Lowe's store in Dublin, California.

Congressman McNerney gave his views on energy policy and the election. CLICK ON TODAY's VIDEO INTERVIEW:

We'll keep an eye on this race, and in the coming weeks talk again with former State Assemblyman Dean Andal about his chances. Right now the well-respected "Rothenberg Political Report" rates this race as "Toss Up - Tilts Democrat."

The "all-new" Mark Curtis political blog is coming soon, with more videos and interview segments, as I get ready for the political conventions in Denver and St. Paul. The future of journalism is NOW on the Internet. Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos.

Random Thoughts on the Election

2008-08-08T22:31:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

I was a subscriber to "Rolling Stone" magazine for 20 years, and always enjoyed the "Random Notes" column, which was just a hodge-podge of notes and brief items from the music world, instead of being a full-fledged article. There was lots of amusing stuff.

Some days I have dozens of thoughts on politics, but none that gels into a column. Still, I've got to write something! So, with that in mind, here are today's "Random Thoughts" on politics 2008, which I hope will be a semi-regular feature here:

-So John Edwards had an affair. He wasn't going to be the VP running mate anyway (because he can't carry North Carolina), but he had a decent shot at Attorney General. Now, that's gone too.

-Media outlets are making a big deal out of the fact that Bill Clinton will address the convention Wednesday night. Are they seriously surprised? The big story would have been leaving him off the agenda. You've got to be kidding! Love 'em or hate 'em, he's been the face of the Democratic Party for 16 years.

-Paris Hilton is now making fun of John McCain by calling him a "wrinkly, white-haired guy." Better check your family history, Paris. If it wasn't for a "wrinkly old man" named Conrad Hilton, you'd be a poor zero, instead of a rich zero.

-Barack Obama is grossly underestimating the female backlash against his campaign. Pick Hillary for VP, Senator, or you might "tank" worse than Dukakis in the tank.

-Love him or hate him, George W. Bush is the only modern U.S. President to face down radical Islam. Sorry, presidential fans of both parties; but Clinton, Bush Sr., Reagan, Carter and Ford all failed on that account. The outcome may not really be known for another decade.

-The latest "hot" rumor for VP on the GOP side is former House Speaker Newt Gingrich. Don't bet the mortgage on it. (See Edwards item above.)

-I doubt it will work, but I give Barack Obama a lot of credit for seriously considering Sen. Evan Bayh (D-IN) as his running mate. It used to be "conventional wisdom" that you don't pick someone from a neighboring state, but Bill Clinton and Al Gore blew that theory away in 1992.

Anyway, more of these nuggets to come, before, during and after the conventions!

I will be on the ground in Denver for the DNC on August 24, followed by the RNC in St. Paul, on August 31. Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos.

Mark Curtis Speaks with KGO Radio

2008-08-08T07:32:00.000-07:00

KGO Radio

VP Short Lists Short Change Women

2008-08-03T15:01:00.001-07:00

(Santa Clara, California)

Today I find myself at the National American Miss Pageant in Santa Clara, California. My daughter is one of the contestants for Miss Teen California, having finished second runner-up in last year's junior teen competition. Lest you think this is a "beauty pageant," think again. The young women in this pageant are skilled in academics and community service. They learn poise, confidence, public speaking and charity, among other qualities. In short, these young ladies are the leaders of tomorrow. They are an impressive bunch.

As I am watching this all play out, a question begs from the world of politics. Apparently no women in either party are under serious consideration any longer for Vice-president. Why? Sen. Hillary Clinton, it would appear, is no longer being considered by Barack Obama. And John McCain appears to be taking a pass on Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison. I think this is a critical mistake.

For now, we hear the Democratic finalists are Gov. Tim Kaine (D-VA); Sen. Evan Bayh (D-IN) and Sen. Joe Biden (D-DE). On the Republican side, the rumor mill has former Gov. Mitt Romney (R-MA); Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA); and Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R-MN).

Here are some thumbnail sketches with pros and cons: Tim Kaine, Pros: Virginia may be a "toss-up," state; and if the Dems win, they could take the White House. Cons: Kaine is in his mid 40's, in his first term, and has zero foreign policy experience. Do those weaknesses sound just like Obama's? Evan Bayh, Pros: Long-time Washington insider whose dad was a Senator; some foreign experience and some executive experience, as he was a governor. Cons: He may not be able to carry the solidly conservative state of Indiana. Joe Biden, Pros: 36 years in U.S. Senate, with deep foreign policy expertise. He could give Obama "Dick Cheney" type depth on the bench. Cons: Young voters who came out in droves for Obama have no idea who Biden is (or Sam Nunn, or Bob Kerrey, etc).

Now to the Republican side: Mitt Romney, Pros: Solid conservatives love him. He has executive experience in government, business and the nonprofit sector. Cons: Can he carry Massachusetts? It's iffy at best. You MUST win your home state. Just ask Vice-president John Edwards and President Al Gore.

Eric Cantor, Pros: At 45, he's a young, conservative, energetic fundraiser, who could keep Virginia in the GOP win column. Cons: With four terms in the House, he's only slightly more qualified than Obama.

Tim Pawlenty, Pros: Believe it or not, the liberal-leaning Minnesota may be "in play" this year. If the GOP takes the Gopher State, that could mean the keys to the White House. Cons: Yes, Minnesota borders Canada, but that's hardly serious foreign policy experience.

The conclusion I draw from all this is simple. None of these men is head and shoulders above many of the prominent women who have been mentioned on both sides. Female voters cast more ballots than men. Many women are still angry that Hillary Clinton's thunder was stolen by Obama. There could be a backlash if Obama picks a man. So my advice to John McCain would be: Let Obama pick his VP first; and if it's another man, your short list should be: Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX); Gov. Sarah Palin (R-AK); or Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME).

The bottom line: The candidates need to send a message to young women, like those in this pageant today, that emerging young women will be taken seriously as candidates for leadership at all levels of society, including the White House or a heart beat away. Both parties need to end this cynical ploy by which they claim women are being considered for VP, yet no woman even makes it to the semifinals.

Three weeks from today, I hit the road again for Denver, then St. Paul. Check back for full convention coverage at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos.

The Politics and Goodwill of Athletic Competition

2008-08-02T00:00:00.001-07:00

(Stanford, California)

The Summer Olympic Games begin in Beijing a week from today; but, closer to home, Olympic organizers are gearing up for a different kind of games - an event we may see far more of.

At a news conference at Stanford University today, details of the "Summer National Senior Games" were announced. The Bay Area (and specifically Palo Alto) will be hosting the games from August 1 through 15, 2009. Yes, opening ceremonies are a year from today.

"Big deal," you say. "We want the real Olympics!" Well, this may be a foreshadowing of things to come. Next year 12,000 athletes from around the nation will be competing in eighteen medal sports and seven demonstration sports around the Bay. That should translate to an economic impact of more than $35 million dollars to the local economy. That ain't bad. "This will be bigger than Beijing," said Anne Warner Cribbs, president of the local organizing committee. "More athletes will be competing." Cribbs knows a little something about this business; she represented the U.S. in swimming in the 1960 Olympics.

Local elected officials are thrilled about all the business coming here.

The point is, most people are living longer and healthier lives, so why not compete in athletic games for medals. And that means this concept could become big business. After all, as I pointed out at the news conference today, people scoffed as the Seniors' Golf Tour when it was first launched. Many thought it would fail. It's now a multimillion-dollar enterprise, with a TV contract and huge respect and notoriety. Why? Because people like good competitive golf, whether it's Tiger Woods in his 30's or Jack Nicklaus in his 70's.

The same thing could happen to these Senior Games! While it is primarily a U.S. competition for now, the games will be expanding into Europe, with Fall Games in the Netherlands in September of 2009 with upwards of 5,000 athletes. Could further international competition be far behind? "My dream is that one day we will have World Senior Games," said National Senior Games President, Phil Godfrey, "that it will be on par with the Olympics."

Senior swimmer Daniela Barnea echoed those international hopes. "I grew up in Israel, where there were no pools to swim in," Barnea said. "I got here and joined the master's program. I enjoy swimming. I enjoy the workout."

So where do the politics come in? Well, promoting international cooperation and goodwill has always been a goal of the Olympics, even if that has at times fallen short. It's interesting to note that these Senior Games will have an environmental emphasis and goals. For example, at the games last year in Louisville, the athletes were given 50,000 plastic water bottles. Not this time. Each will be given a stainless steel water container, and there will be so-called "hydration stations" all over campus. The idea is to cut down on trash and pollution. "These games will be green," said organizer Anne Warner Cribbs.

The games also promote good global health. Obesity in America is a big problem. Smoking in Asia is a fast- growing threat. Any promotion of good health could counter those trends. As I say, the spirit of international cooperation is at the heart of these efforts. "I am a zealot for health, exercise and fitness," said Santa Clara County Supervisor Liz Kniss. Palo Alto Mayor Larry Klein echoed the public health example that will be set. "There are going to be 12,000 people here competing," Klein said. "We want this for our society so that we don't have an epidemic of Type II Diabetes."

The sweetest and most poignant moment came today from senior basketball player Don De Lutis. He lamented that his team of all-stars would now be playing in the 75-to-79 age division. Two of his 74-year- old players will have to play for a different squad. "Hopefully, we'll win the gold medal next year," said De Lutis. "At least that's our goal."

The games at Stanford next year need two things: Moral support and volunteers. The first part is easy. ALL events will be free to the public to watch. That should bring people out and at least generate some revenue through vendor and food sales. The second part is more challenging. Organizers need 4,000 volunteers to help put on these games. Sign up if you can. More information is available at www.2009seniorgames.org.

I consider the two political conventions as "the Olympics of politics," and they are coming soon. I will be in both Denver and St. Paul, starting August 24. Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos.

"Press Release Wars" Are Downright Silly

2008-07-31T20:22:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

OK, folks! I am going to start sharing with you some of the downright silliness of this campaign (heck, just about all campaigns). Since I am on the press e-mail list for the Obamas, the McCains, and yes even still, the Clintons, I thought I might share some of the more ridiculous offerings.

Today it was former President Bill Clinton, trying to entice us to play a "lottery" of sorts, so we could dine with Hillary (and help retire her multi-million dollar campaign debt). The press release is entitled "The Person I Most Want to Spend Time With." Seriously, that's the title (or the punch line; make your own joke!) Anyway, here's what his email said:

"Dear Mark,

During the campaign, Hillary and I didn't have the chance to eat together much because we were usually on the trail in different states. Now that the campaign's over, I'm glad we can share more meals again.

Of all the people I've had the privilege to break bread with, the person I most enjoy is still Hillary.

Now you have a chance to have dinner with her. And if you contribute today to help Hillary retire that pesky campaign debt, you and a guest might be sitting down to dinner with her soon. I think you should go for it and enter today.

Join Hillary for dinner. Make a contribution today.

Trust me on this one. If you're the lucky winner, it will be a night you'll really enjoy and one to remember.

All my best,

Bill Clinton"

In fairness, some of the McCain and Obama offerings are equally as touching. Those chapters are coming soon to a blog near you! www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Let them Debate: The Barr/Nader Factor

2008-07-26T20:40:00.001-07:00

(Lafayette, California)

I had the great honor of speaking to the Lafayette Rotary Club this week about Campaign 2008. Every year I speak to more than 25 Rotary Clubs around the Bay Area. These are folks committed to community service and are true leaders. How Rotary has served around the world for over 100 years, especially its effort to eradicate Polio, is remarkable. Roto-plast and other great programs have treated thousands with birth defects, too. It's a wonderful group of kind, generous people.

Of course, the Rotarians had lots of questions about this year's Presidential campaign; and since I had been on the campaign trail from January through June, there was a lot to discuss.

One Rotarian asked me about the viability of third-party candidates and whether I think there should be third-party candidates in the debates. GREAT question, and one I love to talk about.

An Associated Press poll in June had it:

Obama 47%

McCain 43%

Nader 6%

A Zogby Poll in early July had it:

Obama 44%

McCain 38%

Barr 6%

I have always believed that a Democracy is simply a "marketplace of ideas." If you put an idea (or candidate) forward, and get the majority to support it, you may prevail. It's not a guarantee, but it has worked well in this country for more than 230 years.

I am a supporter of a viable third option. In 1992, Ross Perot garnered 19 percent of the popular vote. In 1998, pro-wrestler-turned-Mayor Jesse Ventura won the Governor's race in Minnesota. While I did not support either, I do support people having a choice. In 1980, I liked John Anderson; and he got my vote.

My point is....choice! We have nothing to lose by looking at all options. With that in mind, I believe that if any candidates are polling above 5 percent, let them participate in the fall debates. In 1980, there was great turmoil over whether to include John Anderson. The same goes for 1992 and Ross Perot. How about Pat Buchanan in 1996 and Ralph Nader in 2000?

Oh, I know the arguments: Conservatives believe Ross Perot cost George H.W. Bush reelection in 1992; and liberals blame Ralph Nader for Al Gore's defeat in 2000. They argue that the third-party candidates should not have run because they pulled from Democratic and Republican Party constituencies.

That's crazy! A candidate's choice should be on whether they attract votes, not whether they draw votes away from another person. This year, Republican Ron Paul was polling 10% in the New Hampshire primary, yet Fox News Channel blocked him from the debate. Why? Are we that afraid of new and different ideas? Don't we trust ourselves to reject ideas that might not work?

This year is interesting, as Libertarian Bob Barr may pull votes from John McCain. Independent Ralph Nader and the Green Party's Cynthia McKinney may pull votes from liberals. Maybe they will just cancel each other out.

Who knows? We'll never know if the corporate media and major parties "systematically" lock them out by not given them serious coverage, or by not giving them a place on the stage. Let's make it a policy: If any third party candidate is polling better than 5% on Labor Day, let them join McCain and Obama in the fall debates.

What's the harm? After all, this IS a Democracy!

I am busy getting ready for the Democratic Convention in Denver and the Republican Convention in St.Paul. Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Immigration Policy a National Embarassment

2008-07-23T00:17:00.001-07:00

(San Francisco, California)

A shocking tragedy in the wonderful "City by the Bay" may finally put the illegal immigration issue on the national radar screen. And it's about time! Most of the Presidential candidates largely ignored it this year; and - now that we are down to McCain and Obama - they are still ignoring it. The press needs to start insisting on answers, and not just accepting the "policy position handouts" that all campaigns are guilty of. Running the country by "press release" on immigration or any other issue simply won't work.

Just ask Danielle Bologna, of San Francisco. Today she is a widow with two dead sons, thanks to Washington's utter indifference to illegal immigration and to San Francisco's blatant flouting of immigration law. San Francisco turned a blind eye towards a criminal alien, and now three family members are dead. That's an outrage.

Here's what happened: On June 22, a man named Tony Bologna was shot to death near his San Francisco home. His son Michael, age 20, and another son Matthew, 16, were shot to death as well. The violence appears to have been precipitated by some type of road-rage incident.

The murder suspect now in custody is 21-year-old Edwin Ramos of El Salvador, who was convicted of two violent felonies as a juvenile, but was never deported as an illegal immigrant. Why? Because, for some reason that defies explanation, San Francisco has a policy of not deporting violent illegals who are juveniles. San Francisco is a self-proclaimed "sanctuary city," meaning it does not obey or enforce most federal immigration laws. Cooperation between federal agents and city police is nil (much to the dismay of many honest SFPD cops, who take their pledge to enforce the law seriously, but aren't allowed to do so).

By the way, lest you get the impression that Mr. Ramos was a petty juvenile delinquent, here's what he was convicted of doing. The first conviction was when Ramos and some known gang members beat a man mercilessly on a city bus - a beating which, thank God, was captured on the bus's security video camera. Ramos's second crime is even more unspeakable. He attacked a pregnant woman on the street and tried to steal her purse. For this he gets sanctuary?

So by this time, after two violent felony adjudications, you'd think someone would have called the "feds," but no such luck. According to the County of San Francisco's Juvenile Probation Department, "Probation officers shall not discriminate in any fashion against minors based on their immigration status."

By the way, for all those who love to constantly beat up on the news media, I hope some will tip their hats to the "San Francisco Chronicle" and reporter Jaxon Van Derbeken for unearthing this shocking story. It's Journalism 101 at its finest, all too seldom seen anymore in the world of "infotainment" that media executives claim is "news." But I digress.

In any case, I hate to use a cliche, but this story is just the tip of the iceberg. No one is really talking about illegal immigration policy on a serious level, especially in the Presidential campaign. Much of that lack probably stems from the illegal immigration bill that died in Congress last year. The bill was widely criticized by liberals as too tough on border enforcement, and it was widely attacked by conservatives who thought it provided "citizenship through amnesty" for too many illegals. So, both ends of the political spectrum are to blame for stopping a possible solution. It wasn't a perfect bill by any stretch, but doing nothing is hardly good public policy on any issue.

Of course, with any policy crisis we always get the quick fix. San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom has now rescinded the policy (which, fair to say, he did not create); and city leaders have told the "Chronicle" that ten juvenile offenders have been referred to immigration agents for possible deportation.

For Danielle Bologna that will likely provide little comfort as she buries her husband and sons. Mayor Newsom has officially "closed the barn door, after the horses escaped." American politics always seems to run "a day late, and a dollar short" these days. The response to Hurricane Katrina from the state, local and federal level was a case study in that inadequacy three years ago. Today, San Francisco takes this year's prize for inept government.

Hopefully, there will be a lot of debate over illegal immigration this year as the campaign heats up. There will be talk of border fences, guest worker programs and "paths" to citizenship. That's all well and good, but any bill that Obama or McCain signs into law should have one clear provision: ALL illegals, adult or juvenile, with felony convictions must face mandatory deportation. Cities, such as San Francisco, which ignore the law should have federal funds withheld. That might get their attention.

As Danielle Bologna tearfully pointed out to Greta Van Susteren during a TV interview tonight, fixing the law won't bring her family back. And, as for illegal immigrants in the U.S, "They have more rights than we do," Bologna said.

It is hoped that illegal immigration will be up for serious discussion at both the Democratic and Republican National Conventions next month. I will be in Denver and St. Paul to report. Check in at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Obama Foreign Trip "About Time" for Many Reasons

2008-07-18T23:55:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

You might think it is the "second coming." The Internet and TV networks and newspapers (and MANY blogs) are filled with talk of Barack Obama's trip to Iraq and Afghanistan. The coverage is a bit "over the top," and he has not even arrived yet. I'll try to dissect some of the conflicting opinions about this trip in a moment, but first some initial thoughts.

I think the most important point here is that nothing bad can come from Obama's trip. Seeing things firsthand can be eye-opening, with a lot more information than can be gleaned from a stale Congressional hearing in an air-conditioned room with preplanned testimony. This guy might possibly become Commander-in-Chief, so he had best get familiar with the troops now. As we saw in the movie "Charlie Wilson's War," the Congressman was profoundly changed by what he saw in person. (OK, I know it was a Hollywood depiction and was embellished, but the point is well taken).

There are various facets to the debate over Obama's trip. One political blogger argues that John McCain dared Obama to go and that now Obama is "one up" on McCain for calling his bluff. Sorry, but this might be the silliest argument on the table. First of all, it presumes that Obama is going only because of the taunts from McCain. Folks, Obama is going because he has to go! Can you imagine his trying to be a serious candidate in November without going to Iraq?

So, this trip is a matter of necessity, not choice; and, all politics aside, it's a matter of grave national security.

Yes, there is a political equation. I am not naive. Obama simply can't win in the fall without this trip. His military and foreign policy credentials pale so in comparison to McCain's, that Obama's inexperience raises serious doubts about his viability as President. (That said, I still argue that this election will be decided by the state of the U.S. economy, not by foreign policy, just as happened in 1980, in the midst of international strife).

Still, given the timing, Republicans will try to have a heyday over Obama's visit. He should have gone there months ago, they will argue. The trip may change Obama's troop pullout plan, they may further argue. On the other hand, with Prime Minister Al-Malaki now searching for some sort of timetable for our withdrawal, the Obama visit may play into his hands, given Obama's pledge for specific troop drawdowns by specific dates.

So, maybe it's a fact-finding trip; maybe it's a policy trip; and, yes, maybe it's a campaign trip. It may be all of the above but, given the time and proximity to next month's conventions, I'll defer to another colleague from Wisconsin, who may be the best analyst in the business on either end of the political spectrum. "It's very hard to argue that this is not political," said Jeff Greenfield, political analyst for CBS News, on Friday.

I can't wait to get to Denver for the Democratic National Convention on August 25, followed by the Republican National Convention in St. Paul on August 31. Check in at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Polls Are a Mixed Bag Right Now

2008-07-15T15:55:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

Most polls continue to put Democrat Barack Obama in the lead in the Presidential race. However, the gap is closing. Polls that showed him leading John McCain by 12 to 15 points just a few weeks ago now show that lead all but gone. Why is that? Well, for starters, many of those polls were taken right after the dramatic and historic primary season ended. The euphoria over Obama's razor-thin win over Hillary Clinton and the fact that McCain had won his nomination three months earlier, meant that McCain was knocked out of the headlines for a good stretch.

Now that people have just two choices (Okay, I know Nader, Barr, McKinney, et. al., are hovering out there.), the polls may tighten further.

Here are some of the latest numbers:

POLL: Obama: McCain:

Newsweek 44 41

Quinnipiac 50 41

ABC/Washington Post 49 46

Real Clear Politics 47 43

The key here is the undecided vote. As many as 15 percent of voters have yet to make up their minds, so the election could swing either way. Also, most polls have a margin of error of +/- 4 percentage points. That could make these polls essentially dead even.

Bad News for McCain: An AOL poll shows that six percent of American homes have no "land line" phone. They rely on cell phones only. Most of those numbers are unlisted, making this mostly young, 18-to-30-year-old group unavailable for phone polling. As we saw in the primaries, this voting demographic heavily favors Obama.

Bad News for Obama: A variety of polls still indicate that 20 to 25 percent of Hillary Clinton supporters are planning to vote for McCain, or they will just simply stay home. Many are still angry, believing Obama took "skips in line" ahead of Hillary Clinton when it was "her turn" to be the nominee. These people are still mad six weeks later. They could be decisive.

Battleground states: There are eleven in all. It's a toss-up in eight right now: Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, New Hampshire, Florida, Virginia, Nevada and New Mexico. Obama has wider margins in Wisconsin and Colorado. McCain has a leg up in Missouri.

The bottom line: This race is wide open! I have heard too many McCain backers ready to "throw in the towel." And I have heard too many Obama supporters talk of a certain victory. Neither group is right!

I am gearing up for the Democratic Convention in Denver and the Republican Convention in St. Paul. Until then, keep checking in at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Tony Snow 1955-2008

2008-07-12T21:11:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

First it was Tim Russert; now it's Tony Snow. One was unexpected; the other we kind of knew was coming. Still, both deaths are a shock to the journalism community. Russert was 58; Snow, 53. Both died much too young, well before their prime. Death is hard to take at any time; but, in a Presidential election year, when we all expected to see a lot of Tim and Tony, missing them is even harder.

I had the good fortune to know both men, not as good friends, but as professional colleagues. One was a tried-and-true Democrat; the other, a hard-core Republican. I respected them both deeply for their passion, their intellect and their integrity.

I have great memories of interviewing Tony a number of times when he was host of "Fox News Sunday." We would have him on KTVU the Friday before, for a preview.

Ironically, the last time I spoke with both Snow and Russert was in January. Tim was at the Iowa Caucuses in Des Moines. Three weeks later, I had dinner with Tony in Concord, CA, when I introduced him as the featured speaker before a crowd of 500 at the annual Contra Costa USA Dinner. He was fantastic! We had a lot in common. We were both professional journalists. We had both worked in politics. We had both played in rock bands in our 20s. We had even worked as stand-up comedians; and we had both lost our moms to cancer when we were teenagers. Despite all the ups and downs of life, we counted our blessings.

We talked a lot that night, and Tony was especially encouraging, because I had just lost my job two weeks before and was professionally devastated. He was so encouraging and supportive. He had lost media jobs, too. He was thrilled that I decided to strike out on my own and cover the Presidential race as a freelancer, because he knew it would be an uphill fight in the world of entrenched media empires.

Days later came this note to me in the mail. It may be hard to read, so I'll transcribe it: "Dear Mark: It was a real treat to meet you in person at last, and to get time to talk about everything from stand-up to politics to the wild and ruthless business of broadcasting. As one who has been through the 'getting fired' business, let me share one consoling thought: Something better, and probably something unexpected, will come your way. That just seems to be how these things work. Your talent, drive and ability will shine through. I know how tough it is now, but hang in there: It will get better. Thanks for doing such a great job last night. I hope our paths will cross again soon. Best, Tony."

Here was a guy who was losing his life to cancer, but he was consoling me for losing my job on TV. That dose of humility and reality will carry me a long way. I will treasure the handwritten note forever.

But my greatest memory is of March 22, 2007, when Tony held the White House briefing the day after Elizabeth and John Edwards had announced the return of her cancer in the midst of his Presidential run. Here is what Tony said to a national TV audience from the briefing room:

"A couple of things up top. As you probably know, Senator John Edwards and his wife, Elizabeth, have announced that she has a recurrence of cancer, and that they will still continue a full and vigorous campaign. First, our thoughts and prayers are with Elizabeth Edwards. Also, as somebody who has been through this, Elizabeth Edwards is setting a powerful example for a lot of people, and a good and positive one. She has been on top of diagnosis and followup. When you have cancer it's very important to keep checking. She's being aggressive. She's living an active life. And a positive attitude, prayers, and people you love are always a very good addition to any kind of medicine you have. So for Elizabeth Edwards, good going; our prayers are with you."

Snow also said, "When you see an Elizabeth Edwards saying, 'I'm going to embrace life and I'm going to move forward,' that is a wonderful thing."

From the other camp, came a response. John Edwards told "People" magazine that he and Elizabeth were praying for Snow, adding: "Tony has been an incredible example for people living with cancer and cancer survivors."

That was simply an exchange of kindness, class and leadership from both side of the aisle. Cancer is an equal opportunity killer. It could care less whether you are Republican, Democrat, Green, etc. When it strikes public figures, they have two choices: Wall themselves up in privacy and self-pity, or become public advocates for education, early detection, research and beyond. The nation is fortunate that the Snows and Edwardses chose the latter.

Tony was optimistic about his prognosis. In our last conversation, he talked about living long enough to see his kids grow up and provide him with grandchildren. Feeling equally optimistic, I invited him back to Contra Costa County to tell us all about those grandchildren, and we would dissect the political world at the same time. I can't believe that conversation was just six months ago, and now he's gone. He was so strong, and so ready to keep fighting.

Like Tim Russert, Tony Snow was a devout family man who loved his wife and children. Today our prayers are with Tony's wife Jill, their two daughters and their son. God Bless them! With Sunday upon us, I can't help thinking that Russert and Snow are in Heaven, hosting a spiritual Sunday joint edition of "Meet the Press" and "Fox News Sunday" from the great beyond. What a show it would be!

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"Foot in Mouth Disease" Infects Campaign Trail

2008-07-11T01:07:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

Good Lord! Where do I begin? The campaign missteps are coming so fast that I feel I need dance lessons. (Or maybe the candidates do!)

Today it was former U.S. Senator Phil Gramm (R-TX), a surrogate for Sen. John McCain, who - during an interview with "The Washington Times" - called the United States "a nation of whiners" in a "mental recession."

People paying $ 4.50 a gallon for gas are probably not really thrilled about being called "whiners." And the "mental recession" remark smacks of Jimmy Carter's infamous "malaise speech," which was likely the lowest emotional moment in U.S. Presidential history. People don't like being told they are "losers," whether it's by a Republican or a Democrat. Such remarks helped lead to Carter's landslide defeat to Ronald Reagan in 1980. We want to be uplifted, not castigated.

Not to be outdone, Phil Gramm has plenty of competition from the Rev. Jesse Jackson. At the end of a Fox News interview this week, Jackson said (assuming the microphones had been cut): "See, Barack been, um, talking down to black people on this faith based .... I wanna cut his nuts (testicles) off ... Barack ... he's talking down to black people." The fact that Sen. Obama has been chastising black males who father children, then abandon their families, is laudable. That he's calling on churches to help is an acknowledgment that he knows they fill a big need in the social services gap. Entertainer Bill Cosby (who holds a Doctorate in Education) has been attacked for similar remarks. Why do people attack the messenger when they don't like the message?

Much to my dismay, some U.S. media outlets are "self-censoring" Jackson's remarks. This "namby-pamby" journalistic nonsense needs to end now! Report what he said, and let people make their own interpretation and judgement. (NOTE TO THE MEDIA: Go back and read the First Amendment in case you are confused!) There was no such restraint when then-candidates George W. Bush and Dick Cheney referred to "New York Times" reporter Adam Clymer as an "ass" during the 2000 campaign, while they stood to close to an open microphone. Just report what the candidates say, crude as it may be at times. (NOTE TO CANDIDATES: Always assume all mikes are hot!)

Now, let me take a moment to defend Sen. Gramm and Rev. Jackson. They are entitled to their opinions, and - quite honestly - it's nice to hear a little candor in a prepackaged corporate sound bite world. I think both men probably truly believe their statements. Heck! That's actually refreshing from both sides. At least we know where they stand!

The real problem here is that both men are surrogates for the candidates. What REALLY matters in this election is what the candidates themselves say and how they respond to questions and issues. Gramm and Jackson are not on the ballot.

This year Barack Obama was nominated for the "Foot in Mouth" award when he stereotyped rural voters as gun-and-Bible-toting hicks. John McCain won his "Foot in Mouth" nomination by saying that he needed to be educated about the economy because his real strengths lie in military and foreign affairs. Both men were pummeled for their remarks, and that's the way it should be because THEY are the ones who could actually sit in the Oval Office.

So, while we can all be amused by Jesse Jackson and Phil Gramm, (and Geraldine Ferraro, Rev. Jeremiah Wright and Rev. Pat Robertson, et. al.), it's important to keep in mind, they are not on the ballot.

Let's focus on the candidates themselves and hope the "Foot in Mouth Award" does not become a category at the Oscars! It might be hard to pick a winner.

In six weeks, I hit the road again for the Democratic and Republican conventions. Keep dropping by, www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Comcast Newsmaker

2008-07-10T10:30:00.001-07:00

San Francisco Politics as Self-Parody

2008-07-09T08:59:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

They seem hell-bent on outdoing themselves time and time again, and this idea is no exception. Some San Francisco political leaders are hoping to name the city's sewage treatment plant after President George W. Bush. The idea is that, in their opinion, the Bush presidency has been so bad that giving the sewage plant his name is a befitting recognition

"In President Bush's case, we think that we will be cleaning up a substantial mess for the next ten or twenty years," said Brian McConnell, of the Presidential Memorial Commission of San Francisco, in an interview with the Associated Press. "The sewage treatment facility's job is to clean up a mess, so we think it's a fitting tribute," McConnell added.

This Commission is serious, and members are trying to have a ballot initiative ready for the November election. This is the same San Francisco that was about 400 million dollars "in the hole" a few years back and is still short staffed in its police department to the tune of about 800 officers. The city's crime rate (including murders) has jumped in recent years. Gangs are a real problem.

This is also the same San Francisco that tried to ban the Junior ROTC program from the public schools because many in the city were opposed to the war. Being against the war and the President who led it are certainly legitimate areas of political discourse, but why punish a bunch of needy teenage kids (many of whom use the ROTC program to launch themselves into the military, college or both)? Even Mayor Newsom and Sen. Diane Feinstein had the good sense to oppose banning the Junior ROTC. It's another classic lesson in "If you don't like the message, don't kill the messenger!"

Naming the sewage treatment plant after President Bush poses the question: "Don't we have more important things to do?" The problem is that such a move just adds to the national perception that San Francisco is a place filled with kooks. That's a shame because it remains one of America's most wonderful cities, not to mention a major tourist destination point. Besides, not all the ideas from here are bad. San Francisco is modeling a health care plan for all its residents that could spread throughout the nation, as talks of health care reform continue in the presidential race. But good ideas get overshadowed here by the bad.

As you might guess, Republicans think naming the sewage treatment plant after Mr. Bush is a bad idea and plan to fight the ballot measure. "This is why San Francisco is considered wacky," said former state GOP spokesman Patrick Dorinson in an interview with the Associated Press. Dorinson also called the ballot initiative "a horrible idea" that is "childish."

Political activists in San Francisco may be doing this as a practical joke, because an idea like this is sure to make national headlines (and it has); but, instead of making President Bush look foolish, it has the opposite effect - leaving the "City by the Bay" with egg on its face once again.

I will be writing about politics all summer as I gear up to attend both political conventions in Denver and St. Paul. Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Campaign Maps Paint Fascinating Puzzle

2008-07-07T03:30:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

The wonders of the internet never cease. For political junkies like me, there is always something new to catch my eye. This year it is the plethora of Electoral College prediction maps. Just Google "electoral map predictions," and you'll find plenty! Some are very interactive and have state-by-state polling, so you can tell where the race is close and where it isn't.

The maps vary a great deal. One shows Barack Obama way up, with 320 electoral votes - 50 more than he needs to become President. The most fascinating one, though, is from www.politicalmaps.org, which shows Obama and John McCain tied at 269 electoral votes apiece.

Based on my look at a variety of these electoral maps and at state polling, I think we are in for a very close race on election night; and I am still looking at a one-state margin to decide the entire race. The sad part of this is that the drama may end early on election night, because some of the "bellwether" states are on the East Coast and could affect turnout in the West. For example, if Virginia (a normally Republican state), goes Democratic, it could be a bad night for McCain. On the other hand, if Pennsylvania (a traditionally Democratic state), goes for McCain, Obama may be in trouble. If both states "buck the system," we're in for a long, wild night!

As I always tell folks, each of these maps, like the polls, represents a single "snapshot" in time. What a particular map predicts in July may not be what it will show in November. Swings in the economy, ups and downs in gas prices, the candidates' selection of running mates, and terrorist activity (or the lack thereof) can all affect the polls and maps. Nothing is cast in stone. For example, politicalmaps.org had the GOP up by 20 electoral votes last November, before we even had nominees!

I was at the Danville Veterans Memorial Building on July 4th, announcing the town parade as it passed by. Two of my retired military friends were having quite a debate- one predicting an Obama landslide and the other predicting a close McCain win. The point is that this race is wide open. We vote in November, not in July!

I will be at both political conventions this year. The Democrats are in Denver beginning August 25, and the Republicans are in St. Paul as of September 1. Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com. We will update those maps, all summer long!

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Jesse Helms Dies on July 4th

2008-07-04T17:34:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

Former U.S. Senator Jesse Helms, a stalwart of conservative American politics, has died today at the age of 86. He joins a list of famed American politicians whose deaths ironically occurred on the nation's birthday, the 4th of July. The list includes former Presidents Thomas Jefferson and John Adams.

Helms was a fascinating man. People either loved him dearly, or hated him deeply. There was no in between. Helms was a newspaper editor and TV commentator before his first successful run for the U.S. Senate in 1972. He would serve thirty controversial years before retiring in 2002.

Helms was a complex man who could be bitterly partisan or unwaveringly kind. In one of his notorious displays of discourtesy, he purposely sang "Dixie" in a Senate elevator to Senator Carol Mosely-Braun, a black, female Democrat from Illinois, in hopes of making her cry - this after a bitter debate over the Confederate flag. On the other side of the coin, Helms could be a man of great compassion. He and his wife adopted an orphaned nine-year-old with cerebral palsy, after the boy simply wrote the newspaper saying he wanted parents. Now that's heart!

Helms also eased his tough stance on AIDS funding over the years. At first a tough opponent of AIDS spending, he was criticized for being anti-gay. To be fair, Helms made the argument that by the 1990s more was being spent per capita on AIDS patients, than on the far greater number of patients still dying of cancer. In later years, Helms helped back funding for treating AIDS in Africa, where it is simply epidemic and a threat to regional and world stability, not to mention just plain heartbreaking for the number of children left without parents.

I got to interview Senator Helms on a number of occasions when I was a Washington, DC correspondent for WSOC-TV in Charlotte, North Carolina. He could be feisty, belligerent, or as gentle and kind as could be. You were never quite sure what to expect.

One of my most memorable conversations with him occurred as he was getting ready for Richard Nixon's funeral. "We could have had the Nixon Presidential Library at Duke University if it wasn't for Walter Dellinger," Helms said at the time. He was referring to the liberal law professor and former Solicitor General, who helped block the Nixon Library from going to Duke, where the former President had graduated from law school. No matter what people thought about Nixon, Helms argued, landing any presidential library could have been a real plum for tourism and research in North Carolina. Today the Nixon Library is in Yorba Linda, California.

Love him, or hate him - and there are many people on both sides - Jesse Helms will be remembered as an icon of American politics. We are a country of vastly diverse political ideas, from liberal on the left to conservative on the right. Each has had its time and place in our history. We have survived in the balance of the two longer than any other democracy on earth. That is something we can all celebrate this 4th of July!

I'll be writing daily about political happenings. Tune in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Politicians Are Not "Rock Stars!"

2008-07-02T10:23:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

Every campaign has its just plain ludicrous moment. In 1992, some nut asked Bill Clinton if he preferred "boxers or briefs." Not only was the question inane, but the press coverage was equally as bad. In 1995, some poor reporter in Baltimore tried to ask newly-elected House Speaker Newt Gingrich the same question. Gingrich, whether you like him or not, properly excoriated the fool reporter by dressing him down in front of the entire press corps (and national TV audience) for asking such a ridiculous question. For those of us who still value quality journalism, it was a choice moment! (Such moments, sad to say, are far too infrequent these days).

So let's fast forward to the 2008 campaign. This year's bad cliche is to refer to candidates as "larger than life": "Barack Obama is a rock star!" "Hillary Clinton is a rock star!" (OK, the picture here was "photo-shopped!") I even heard former Gov. Mike Huckabee referred to as a "rock star!" Now Huckabee does play a mean bass guitar, sometimes in a band, but he is NOT a rock star. Nor is Obama or Clinton.

The only people who are actually "rock stars" are the rock stars themselves. It's a self-describing title. You either are, or you aren't. There's no room for "wanna be's" here. The Hall of Fame football coach and announcer John Madden has always railed against team owners and executives who pull football jerseys over their suits and then accept the team trophy in the locker room after the Super Bowl. Not only, he says, do they look foolish for wearing a football jersey over a coat and tie (and they do), but none of them ever played a down in the game! The point is that owners own, and players play. And, politicians make laws; and rock stars make music. Mixing the roles and metaphors in society is confusing (and in many cases is deceiving).

I have had the good fortune to have worked in both the music industry and the political world. The great lesson in life (as well as in entertainment, in sports and in politics) is, "Don't try to be what you are not!"

Truth be told, most politicians are "dull as dirt." I've been around a lot of them. Not all are dull, mind you. Former Sen. Bob Dole and current Rep. Barney Frank are among the funniest people I ever met. They have more jokes and one-liners than most stand-up comics. But they are the exceptions, not the rule.

Politicians are not "rock stars," and I doubt whether anyone really wants them to be. The music business has been marred by excesses in sex, drugs and alcohol since time began. It's a tough, grueling, often heartbreaking business that has taken its toll (even death) on countless who enter. Excess is an occupational temptation and an occupational hazard. Yes, and sometimes, the same pitfalls occur in the political world.

It's a hard life, constantly living on stage and in a glass house, surrounded by a curious public and press.

But the analogy ends there. The real problem with calling politicians "rock stars" is that those doing so feel compelled to embellish the candidates - to make them something larger than life - which they are not. Former Congresswoman Pat Schroeder, whom I got to know over my years as a Congressional Aide and as a reporter, used to refer to this phenomenon as "putting lipstick on a pig!" In the advertising business the old adage is "Sell the sizzle, not the steak!"

The problem with all of this from a media standpoint is that I see reporters (even on the networks), standing at a rally and reporting "live" that "Barack Obama is a rock star!" What this says, loud and clear, is that the reporter has nothing of real significance to say. Nothing about Obama's biography; nothing about the candidate's stance on issues; and no knowledge about the candidate's voting record.

Comedian Jay Leno once joked that "Politics is show business for ugly people!" Cute line, but maybe he's on to something. If Barack Obama becomes president, I want him to be more like Harry Truman than Ozzy Osbourne. If John McCain becomes president, I want him to be more Calvin Coolidge than Sid Vicious.

So let's stop the media obsession with the "rock star" analogy. All it does is diminish the candidates, diminish the reporters using it, and - most of all - it diminishes what should be a great public debate.

I will keeping writing the "rocking blog" (OHMIGOD...did I just say that?) Tune in daily at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Attacks on McCain's Military Service WIll Backfire

2008-06-30T13:09:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

I have written here many times about different strategies each candidate might want to employ to win the White House. It's not an exercise of my favoring one side or the other; it is rather the political strategist in me hypothesizing on how to devise a winning game plan. I will continue to write those strategy columns as the campaign goes on, because people constantly ask me: "What will it take for Obama to win?" or "How can McCain win the White House?"

The reason I bring this up today is that some on the Democratic side are making a huge mistake. Attacking John McCain's military record is NOT how to win this race, and might well backfire.

Retired General Wesley Clark, who is said to be on Barack Obama's "short list" for Vice-president, said of McCain: "He has been a voice on the Senate Armed Services Committee, and he has traveled all over the world; but he hasn't held executive responsibility.... That large squadron in the Navy that he commanded — that wasn't a wartime squadron."

CBS's "Face the Nation" moderator Bob Schieffer quizzed Clark on the fact that Barack Obama has no military service. "Well, I don't think riding in a fighter plane and getting shot down is a qualification to be President," Clark replied.

The Internet is also full of attacks on McCain's military service, with some left-wing sites going so far as to call him a "war criminal" because bombs he dropped in Vietnam may have hit civilians. (Never mind that collateral damage has occurred in every war since time began). Even more mainstream political forces have attacked McCain. Consider what Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) told a newspaper in April: "McCain was a fighter pilot, who dropped laser-guided missiles from 35,000 feet. He was long gone when they hit. What happened when they got to the ground? He doesn't know. You have to care about the lives of people. McCain never gets into those issues."

Rockefeller, heir to the fortune of his billionaire family, never served in the military. He also later apologized for his McCain comments, and the Obama campaign condemned the Rockefeller remarks.

McCain, by most definitions, is an American war hero. He was shot down in combat, held as a POW for 5 1/2 years, and repeatedly beaten and tortured to the point that he considered committing suicide. The Vietnamese, knowing that McCain's father and grandfather were prominent Navy Admirals, offered to release him early. He refused, insisting on staying with his fellow prisoners and not wanting preferential treatment.

Some Democrats have attacked McCain because they believe the Vietnam War was wrong. The logic of that escapes me. Talk about comparing apples with oranges! McCain was a Navy pilot, obeying orders. That's how the military works. He didn't start the war; he served in it. Whether Vietnam was right or wrong is a different argument for a different day. By the way, whom did President Bill Clinton send when the U.S. reopened diplomatic relations with Vietnam? Why, Sen. John McCain (who even visited his old prison cell) and another former POW, Rep. Pete Peterson (D-FL), who became the U.S. Ambassador. For all his misgivings over Vietnam, Clinton did the right thing at that time.

Even Barack Obama has referred to McCain on many occasions as a "genuine American hero" and says he "honors his service to our country." Fellow Democrats ought to heed Obama's respect, class, and just good common sense and put McCain's military and foreign policy experience "off limits." It's foolish to attack a man's strongest asset. It's like saying Kobe Bryant has no business on the basketball court!

If Democrats want to beat McCain, then attack him on legitimate issues. Criticize his economic policies, or his immigration bill, or his support for "No Child Left Behind." But, for Heaven's sake, just concede that McCain served his country honorably and heroically and leave it be. Even a wise politician by the name of Barack Obama had the good sense to do just that!

Leave your comments! And check in daily at http://www.markcurtismedia.blogspot.com/.

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Court's Actions Could Have Political Fallout

2008-06-29T15:01:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

There is an old saying that "nothing happens in a vacuum!" In other words, when something happens, it has a ripple effect. The law of inertia, so to speak. For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.

The courts have that kind of impact on politics.

Take two recent examples: This week the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that under the Second Amendment to the Constitution individuals have the right to bear arms; and last month the California Supreme Court ruled that gay marriages could go forth. Some form of the latter issue will eventually appear before the U.S. Supreme Court, as well.

So how does this play out politically? Well, it certainly raises the issue of whom each candidate might appoint to the high court. At 88, Justice John Paul Stevens is most likely to retire next; and Antonin Scalia and Ruth Bader Ginsburg may not be far behind. The new President will likely have one appointment in the first term and, if reelected, two in the second term.

The question for voters then is "Who do you want ruling on the Supreme Court?" The last 11 high court decisions were 5 to 4. Moderate-to-conservative Anthony Kennedy is the usual swing vote, taking the role once held by Sandra Day O'Connor.

John McCain has already pledged to appoint conservative justices in the mold of Scalia and Samuel Alito. Barrack Obama has yet to be very specific on this; but as the most liberal member of the U.S. Senate, he is more likely to select a pro-choice, liberal-leaning justice in the mold of Ginsburg or Stephen Breyer.

Expect this to become a central issue in the campaign, given the recent landmark decisions!

Check back all week at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Cute Gimmick; Now "Where's the Beef?"

2008-06-28T19:37:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California...Oh how I wish the byline said Unity, New Hampshire!)

They couldn't write this kind of script in Hollywood. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama hold their first "unity rally" in Unity, New Hampshire. Not only that, but they tied there in January, each getting 107 votes! So, Friday it was a great place for a photo op! It was a cute story, nothing more!

But now what? Do they become running mates? Does he help pay off her campaign debt? Where does Bill Clinton fit in? Do her angry supporters back McCain? So many questions! The big question is how long the political lovefest will last! That's because there are many other questions to ask, of Obama and McCain:

1) What can you do (if anything) to boost a sagging U.S. economy?

2) How will you deal with radical Islam?

3) Whom might you appoint to the U.S. Supreme Court, and why?

4) What's your environmental policy (including domestic drilling)?

5) How can you deal with a divided Congress? A divided country?

Those are just for starters! Instead, we have been treated to Obama being quizzed on calling a female reporter "Sweetie" in a meaningless off-the-cuff remark; and we've been treated to McCain being grilled about singing a parody, "Bomb, bomb Iran" to the melody of the Beach Boys' classic "Barbara Ann!" These are big media issues? Come on!

I remember back in 1984, when Gary Hart challenged Walter Mondale for the Democratic nomination, running on the platform of "new ideas." He beat Mondale in several primaries and was gaining momentum, when Mondale simply quizzed him about just what those new ideas were. He could not answer! Mondale taunted him with the quote from Clara Peller in the old Wendy's TV ad, "Where's the Beef?" There wasn't any, and Hart lost!

The candidates have to give us more. The press has to give us more. The public has to demand more. This is not "Burger King," where you can simply customize your order and "have it your way!" This is not "American Idol," where we chose our favorite singer. This vote MATTERS! Demand tough questions; demand specific answers!

The blog is back! Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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McCain Needs Pennsylvania to be President

2008-06-24T23:40:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

The other day I blogged about how Barack Obama was expanding his list of "battleground" states from 11 to 18 and about what he needs to do to win the White House in November.

By my analysis, the "big three" battleground states this year are former GOP strongholds which have become much more "middle of the road." They are New Mexico, Nevada and Colorado. If Obama wins every state John Kerry won in 2004, plus just one of these, he will be President.

So, let's turn the tables and see what John McCain needs to do if he is to win. Let's assume he wins only two of the states I just mentioned. He must win one state elsewhere (assuming he wins all the other 2004 Bush states). Republicans would be wise to focus on three key states: Ohio, Pennsylvania and Michigan. They must win one of these, or Obama is President!

Bush won Ohio last time, but it was close. I would predict a much larger African-American turnout in places such as Cleveland, Cincinnati and Columbus. If that happens, Obama wins Ohio. Michigan has a similar dynamic. Kerry won it in 2004, and if Democrats turn out an even higher number of black voters (who historically don't vote in large numbers), then Obama wins Michigan.

My Analysis:

Certainly, Pennsylvania has big urban pockets of black voters, especially in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. Nevertheless, Obama lost decisively to Hillary Clinton (by 10 percentage points), mainly on the heels of his ridiculous analysis of rural voters as bitter, Bible-thumping, gun-toting hicks. He has a lot of damage control to do. A good many Hillary backers are threatening to vote for McCain. Pennsylvania also has the highest population of military veterans in the United States. Pennsylvania, which keeps reelecting the moderate Republican Arlen Specter to the U.S. Senate, might well swing to the moderate McCain.

My Prediction: If McCain really wants to be President, he will pour as much money and organization as he can into Pennsylvania! If he wins the "Keystone State," he is your next President!

There is a LOT going on in politics these days. Check back often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Election Has Lessons for Our Kids

2008-06-23T08:59:00.001-07:00

(Sacramento, California)

Eureka! It's not only the state motto of California; it's a great word to describe this year's election process. My son Patrick says "Eureka" means "I have found it!" In 1849, that meant gold. Today, it means kids have found a link to the presidential election, as well as to the worlds of politics and government about which they can talk and learn.

Sunday, this interest took us to the state capital of California in Sacramento with Troop 36 of the Boy Scouts from St. Timothy's Church in Danville, CA. There were twelve Scouts and nine parents and many lessons about democracy. Interest in all this stuff always seems to peak when there is a big election, and this year does not disappoint.

As the kids posed in front of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's office, at least they knew who the governor is! When I see surveys indicating that 80 percent of the public cannot even name the current Vice-president, it really worries me. Scouting supplements the kids' school work, so I see much of it as an extension of the classroom, or a place Scouts get more education. Yes, they enjoy camping and lots of outdoor activities; but trips like this really help fill in educational gaps.

The Scouts all knew that Ronald Reagan was the only Governor of California to have become President of the United States. We saw his official portrait in the Capitol. We also saw a very unusual contrasting portrait of then-Governor Jerry Brown, who succeeded Reagan and now serves as the state's Attorney General. The contrast between the two portraits certainly illustrates the diversity of Americans' political views (not to mention artistic tastes) - diversity which may drive us all nuts, but is the envy of every other nation on earth!

Just some fun trivia: The Capitol took fourteen years to build, and huge steel columns had to be floated on barges up the Sacramento River. The Assembly Chamber is green, modeled after Britain's House of Commons; and the Senate Chamber is red, modeled after the British House of Lords. The original Capitol had no electricity. The last governor actually to work in the original office was Earl Warren, who left to become Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court.

My point is that buildings such as this are rich in history, and our kids need to know that. The best lesson of the day came from the tour guide. He asked the boys why there are public galleries, with balconies over both the Assembly and Senate chambers. When no one answered, he told the boys it was so the public could "look over the shoulders of their political officials, to see what they're up too!"

The boys came away having learned that their government belongs to them; it does not belong to the people who get elected.

John McCain visits California today, while Barack Obama is in the key state of New Mexico. I will have more presidential analysis all week at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Obama Expands Battleground in Risky Strategy

2008-06-21T10:54:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

There is a fascinating article on Associated Press today from reporter Liz Sidoti. In it she explains how Barack Obama is expanding his fight from 11 so-called battleground states, to 18. I call this risky, because it forces a campaign to spend money on states it might not win, and takes away money from key states it needs to win.

The classic example of this was Al Gore in 2000. He spent so much time and money trying to win Florida (a GOP-leaning state), that he failed to put forth enough time and money in his home state of Tennessee and Bill Clinton's home state of Arkansas. He lost all three and lost the election. Had he won just Arkansas, he would have been President. Obama is risking the very same mistake. Let me dissect this!

The 11 key battleground states: Colorado, Florida, Iowa, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

My Analysis: Focusing on these is wise! These ARE the 11 key states for both parties. A one-state change from the last election could swing the balance.

My prediction: This may come as a surprise to people. My picks for the BIG three are Colorado, New Mexico and Nevada. Why? These used to be solid GOP states, but demographics have changed. So many labor union workers from places such as Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin have moved to these states looking for work after factories closed, that Democrats can now complete. The minority populations have grown steadily, too; and that makes these states more "in-play." For example, Al Gore won New Mexico by just 300 votes in 2000; then George W. Bush won it back in a close 2004 race. I believe these three states hold the keys to the White House.

The other 7 states: Alaska, Georgia, Indiana, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota and Virginia.

My Analysis: Obama could commit political suicide with this wider new focus. He might have a shot in Georgia, but only if he picks former home-state Senator Sam Nunn as his running mate, and even that is no guarantee. Virginia Senator Jim Webb (a former Navy Secretary and former Republican), could help in a similar fashion; but Obama might win Virginia without him. Virginia has become a more politically mixed state, as the metro-DC suburbs are heavily Democratic territory, whereas out-state rural areas remain solidly GOP.

My prediction: Of these seven states, Obama would be wise to compete intensively only in Virginia. Georgia and North Carolina are marginal, and the other four are simply a waste of time and money. Of course, a candidate can't say that publicly because one can offend a lot of voters in the other states.

I will do a similar state-by-state analysis for the McCain campaign in the coming days.

Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Forget VP for now; Who's the Secretary of State?

2008-06-20T21:48:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

We get obsessed in the press (and a lot of the public, too!), over who will be the #2 person in every administration. I admit I love the speculation, the handicapping of candidates, and the wondering about "Who could add what?" to an administration. But I suspect we do so to the exclusion of considering who might fill certain key cabinet posts.

That may change this year! I fully expect in the rush to "outdo" one another, the two candidates will not only name their VP choices by midsummer, but they will also start naming potential cabinet members, hoping to win key constituencies. For example, will Obama name Eric Holder as Attorney General, shoring up even more black voter support; or will he turn to southerner John Edwards, hoping to ease concerns of white Democrats in parts of the South?

Since such considerations pose real dilemmas for both candidates,

I'll write about cabinet prospects from time to time. Today, let's talk about the Secretary of State.

On the Democratic side, Sen. Joe Biden is often mentioned, and you know he'd love the job. He was long frustrated in the thankless job as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, so much so that he openly announced he wanted to switch Chairmanships to the Foreign Relations Committee, and eventually did. While Biden is still in the VP stakes, Secretary of State seems a better fit. Still, he's his "own man," as Al Haig was, making you wonder whether he would toe the company line or follow his own agenda.

Another possibility for the job is former UN Ambassador Richard Holbrooke, who probably would have had a better shot if Hillary Clinton had won the nomination. Still, Holbrooke is well known to our allies and might be seen as a more stabilizing choice.

On the Republican side, one possibility is former interim UN Ambassador John Bolton. While more abrasive than many would like, Bolton had McCain's behind-the-scenes support for the UN post even though he failed to win confirmation by the full Senate. McCain might endear himself to the more conservative wing of the party by picking the right-wing Bolton. Still, if the Democrats gain seats in the Senate - and they likely could - getting Bolton confirmed might require a Houdini Act.

A safer choice? Perhaps longtime Indiana Senator Richard Lugar, who - like Biden - is a party elder well respected on both sides of the aisle and also well known overseas. Even if McCain wins, he'll need to shore up international support by appointing someone who is well respected by our allies.

For both parties, it's a tough choice. The past three Secretaries of State were all history makers: The first black; the first woman; then the first black woman. The problem is that both parties may feel the pressure to "top this!" and simply can't!

The important thing for both parties to remember: This is about international respect; this is not a popularity contest.

I'll write more soon about other potential administration appointees. Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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My Political Blog RETURNS Friday 6-20-2008

2008-06-19T23:24:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

Greetings political junkies, friends and family!

I have received numerous emails, phone calls and complaints...that my blog was NOT being published every day as promised! I agree. Due to work and other commitments I have been away! (PLUS I needed a few days R&R once the primary season ended...as well as Little League baseball).

But, as of Friday 6-20, my DAILY blog entries will return!

Speaking of response. I cannot believe how many people e-mailed to say they liked my new promo picture. And I did not think anyone would notice. LOL!

We'll talk politics Friday from San Francisco!

God Bless to all,

Mark

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Happy Father's Day, Candidates!

2008-06-15T21:52:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

Happy Father's Day to all! This is the first Sunday in almost six months when I am not in some airport, traveling to the next primary. I am happy and sad about that. Happy to sleep in my own bed; sad, because the primary drama was just riveting, week after week. The late Tim Russert's producer was talking about that on "Meet the Press" this morning, saying that Tim did not want it to end either. We're all going to miss Tim! The tributes today were wonderful and well deserved. My prayers remain with his wife Maureen, his son Luke, and his dad "Big Russ," whom so many millions of Americans came to know through Tim's book.

My church had a great Father's Day tribute today, too. It made me think about my own dad, this being the first year without him. It also made me think about our remaining presidential candidates and about their kids. It's easy to forget sometimes that these are human beings, with spouses and kids like the rest of us. I thought of Ted Kennedy today, too, and how precious each day must be now with each of his three children. Growing up in the public eye is not easy. I think of new bride Jenna Bush and hope that she and her husband can find time out of the limelight to just be themselves. Life is a tough road, and having a famous father makes it harder in many cases, not easier.

So who are John McCain and Barack Obama's kids? We have heard little about them, but all that is about to change. John McCain has a daughter, Sidney, from his first marriage to Carol Shepp. He also adopted her two children. McCain and his second wife Cindy have four children - Meghan, 24, Jack, 22, and Jimmy, 20, who served in Iraq, as well as Bridget, 17, whom they adopted at the behest of an orphanage run by Mother Theresa.

Barack Obama and his wife Michele, have two daughters, Malia Ann, 10, and Natasha, 7. We know little more about them, probably because they are so young; but - like the McCain kids - they are about to be thrust into the public spotlight as never before.

I was impressed this year with Chelsea Clinton, now 28, and how mature and poised she had become since I first saw her as a 12 year old at her dad's inauguration. Quite a remarkable transformation! Her parents kept her out of the public eye; and the press, for the most part, left her alone. I wish the same treatment for the current crop of presidential children. This is their fathers' pursuit of office, not theirs.

I pray for their privacy, normalcy, safety and well-being. I hope, more than anything, that they share a special bond with their dads, as I had with my dad and as my kids have with me.

I hope you all had a great Father's Day! Check in this week for more on the latest politics at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Vote for your city's best dining and nightlife. City's Best 2008.

Tim Russert 1950-2008

2008-06-13T14:51:00.000-07:00

(Danville, California)

I am saddened today about the death of Tim Russert, arguably the greatest political reporter of our generation. The NBC "Meet the Press" host and best-selling author was only 58 years old.

I had occasion to meet Tim on stories from time to time in Washington, DC, as well as on social occasions, such as the annual Radio-TV Correspondents' dinner. I also enjoyed his books about his dad, because they reminded me of my relationship with my own father. My dad owned both Russert books, and I saved them and found comfort in reading parts of them after my dad passed away.

I don't have any idols in the TV business, because I think that's kind of a silly notion in any profession. However, there are people I deeply respect and admire, and one of them was Tim Russert. In this awful era of screaming, partisan journalists and hosts, Russert was as calm and fair and as well researched as they come. He did his homework. His guests were the stars of the show; he was not. Anyone running for president got a good grilling on "Meet the Press," which came to be known affectionately as the "Russert Primary" because it was often tougher than trampling through Iowa and New Hampshire in the dead of winter.

I last spoke with Tim Russert during the Iowa Caucuses on January 2, when I took this picture of him. We were at a jam-packed rally for John McCain, along with a whole host of network reporters, including George Stephanopolous, Andrea Mitchell, Judy Woodruff, Brian Williams and more. It was a "who's who" of American journalism, with a bunch of local reporters like me tossed in. Russert and I spoke briefly about why so many top reporters were there, when McCain was polling in 5th place. "Do you guys know something we don't know?" I asked him, wondering whether they had polling that McCain was surging. He said he honestly didn't know why everyone was there, as he patiently posed for pictures with the locals. I was struck by how much time he took speaking with local voters who had come to the McCain rally without knowing that such a famous TV journalist would be there.

Anyway, I did not know him well, other than pleasantries exchanged while covering politics over the years. What I knew him best for was his quality and integrity on "Meet the Press," a show made richer by the man who hosted it for so many years.

The worlds of politics and journalism will deeply miss him.

Vote for your city's best dining and nightlife. City's Best 2008.

Vice-Presidential Battle in Full Swing in Both Parties

2008-06-08T11:24:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

America Online is running a fascinating poll today, listing 17 potential GOP running mates for John McCain and 18 for Barack Obama. Some of them are long shots, while others are just plain crazy ideas - crazy for reasons I won't go into.

There are, however, some really serious candidates on both sides, so let me evaluate five apiece:

Republicans:

Charlie Crist-- PLUS: Florida governor could help carry his own state for McCain; MINUS: Not known at all outside his state, although that may not matter if he just wins Florida.

Mitt Romney-- PLUS: Brings solid economic, business and executive skills that McCain, by his own admission, is lacking. MINUS: As John Edwards and Al Gore found out, you MUST win your own state to win the White House. Can Romney carry Massachusetts?

Condoleezza Rice-- PLUS: Racial and gender balance to counter the Democrats' ticket, plus she's brilliant. MINUS: Too tied to the controversial Iraq War. Can she carry her home state of California? Iffy, at best.

Bobby Jindal-- PLUS: A young, ethnic governor from a potential swing state, who has also served in Congress. MINUS: At 36, he's just too young, but a rising star in the GOP. Check back in 2016.

Kay Bailey Hutchisoon-- PLUS: A long time, experienced Texas pol, who would strongly appeal to female voters and who is clearly qualified. MINUS: McCain is likely to win Texas anyway, so can she help him in other states? It's a toss-up.

Democrats:

Hillary Clinton-- PLUS: A lot of people voted for her in a very close race. She can win the anti-Obama women, who feel he took "skips" on her turn. MINUS: Clinton fatigue. She still has strong negatives in polls; and her "loose cannon" husband has been an odd mix of campaign helper and hinderer, depending on what he says on any given day.

Bill Richardson-- PLUS: He has all the experience that Obama lacks, with strong appeal to Latinos; and he's from a swing state. MINUS: He betrayed the Clintons; and if he gets picked over Hillary, millions of women voters may just stay home.

Claire McCaskill-- PLUS: She could carry Missouri for the ticket (unlike the 2004 election, when John Kerry blew it by not taking Missouri's Dick Gephardt as his VP). You win Missouri, you win the White House. MINUS: Not well known outside of Missouri; has the same lack of foreign policy experience as Obama. Still a possibility, if Hillary says "No."

Sam Nunn-- PLUS: An expert on military and foreign affairs who is widely respected in both parties. He might just carry Georgia, and the Democrats only need to win one southern state. MINUS: Young voters who came out heavily for Obama just don't know who he is. It's a generational thing. Also, maybe Nunn can't carry Georgia. It's dicey at best.

Ted Strickland-- PLUS: A popular governor of a "must win" state for Democrats who has also served in Congress. MINUS: Aside from Ohio, could he help Obama elsewhere? He was a shoo-in pick if Clinton had won the nomination, because she needed him more than Obama.

My Predictions:

Hillary Clinton-- I think Obama has no other choice. The potential backlash against him if he does not pick her could be devastating. He needs her to win.

Kay Bailey Hutchison-- Although Mitt Romney is the most qualified choice and fills in McCain's "gaps," the gender issue is huge. McCain must counteract the Democrats' ticket if Hillary is on it. More women vote in the U.S. than men, and this will put pressure on McCain.

Wild Card:

The Democrats must pick first, since they have the first convention. The GOP pick will be a reaction to what they do. As I've said, if Obama picks Clinton, then McCain picks Hutchison. (Same thing if Obama picks McCaskill.) But if Obama picks anyone else, look for McCain to pick Romney.

What's your opinion? There is a comment section at the end of each of my blog articles at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Top Ten List: Why Hillary Clinton Should be VP Choice

2008-06-07T08:13:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

Today in Washington, DC, Hillary Clinton gives her concession speech and endorses Barack Obama for President. The two met privately at Senator Dianne Feinstein's home Thursday night to discuss lots of issues. (Oh, to have been a fly on the wall!). In any case, in honor of the David Letterman tradition, here is a my "Top Ten List" on why Obama should pick Hillary as his running mate and why she should accept:

10) Young voters (and they matter now) never heard of Sam Nunn or Bob Kerrey.

9) The VP still gets a cool, free house! (The residence at the Naval Observatory).

8) Obama can't win West Virginia without her.

7) Bill Clinton becomes like a "crazy" in-law! (OK, that's mostly a bonus for the people who write the headlines!)

6) Being VP is the best spot to steer health care reform legislation.

5) One in three past presidents first served in the vice presidency, making it the best "launching pad" for the big job.

4) The VP gets to cast the tie-breaking vote in the Senate (and there could be many).

3) Obama and Clinton both will get to keep their Senate seats if they lose in November.

2) Obama can't win Pennsylvania without her.

1) Democrats in Florida and Michigan may actually show up on election day!

I'll be keeping an eye on today's developments and the possible search for a VP. Check back often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

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Grazing on the Campaign Trail: South Dakota & Montana

2008-06-05T12:06:00.001-07:00

(Rapid City, South Dakota)

Well, there is nothing like another campaign trip to get my appetite working again. I knew - heading into South Dakota and Montana - there would be some good beef on the agenda. It's fun when the candidates plan rallies at good places, too. Hillary Clinton's campaign event at Tally's Restaurant, 530 6th Street in downtown Rapid City, was a godsend. Reporters and supporters were packed in like sardines. But, as soon as Hillary left, so did almost everyone else, except me. I decided to stay for lunch!

As soon as they told me the special was meatloaf, I was sold. It came with delicious mashed potatoes and locally-grown corn. The gravy on the meat and spuds had just enough hint of rosemary and sage. It was delicious, and I had a "lighter than air" biscuit to mop the plate. At $6.95 it was a steal!

Mary, the waitress, who has worked here since 1981, kept offering me a variety of homemade pies. After saying no a dozen times (Okay, a half dozen), I caved and ordered the chocolate pudding pie. Oh my! Don't tell my doctor!.

Tally's is owned by Mike and Kathy Johnson, and their kids are among the great support staff. Even one of my "Food Network" heroes, Rachel Ray, dined here, wrote about it in one of her cookbooks, and featured the stop on her TV show "$40 Dollars a Day!" Tally's made Hillary Clinton a "to go" order. "They made her breakfast," said Kathy, "It was an 'everything' omelet." Mike Johnson also works as a local stagehand, so he helped set up and tear down a lot of the TV and radio lines. "It's kind of a one-shot deal," he said. "It's an exciting thing. It's great for the city. Some people will find out where South Dakota is now!" Numerous people asked me to mention how civic minded the Johnsons are and how much they do for the Rapid City community. Nice folks and a great restaurant!

I didn't get to spend too much time in Montana, but my trip provided me with a scoop of maybe the best ice cream I have ever eaten. "Hoofers," at the main intersection in Broadus, is a combination "coffee shop-ice cream parlor-laundromat," all rolled into one! Try the "Praline Pecan" ice cream. Around the corner at "Powder River Lanes & Cafe," enjoy a great Montana beef burger and fries!

Okay, my new diet starts today!

In the meantime, I am keeping watch on any vice-presidential developments in both parties. Check back at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Clinton Scores South Dakota Upset

2008-06-04T19:05:00.001-07:00

Mark Curtis will talk about that on KTVU.

McCain and Obama Set for November Battle

2008-06-04T09:42:00.000-07:00

(Rapid City, South Dakota)

It was a night to be nice, with Hillary Clinton, John McCain and Barack Obama all congratulating each other for a hard-fought campaign and congratulating each other for inspiring their various constituencies. And they noted they are all friends in the U.S. Senate. Don't expect the lovefest to last long. This is politics, a hardball sport. That's the way it is.

Now that it's McCain vs. Obama in November, expect the gloves to come off. Already, Tuesday night McCain mocked Obama, saying that direct talks with the President of Iran are "not the kind of change" people want. He also said that Obama, 25 years his junior, "has fallen for failed ideas of the past." Obama later praised McCain's heroic service to this country, then counterpunched: "I respect his (McCain's) many accomplishments, even if he denies mine," said Obama.

In Rapid City, South Dakota, the seat of Pennington County, local Republicans gathered to watch the election returns and speeches on TV. All the candidates had already left the state. Hillary Clinton's surprise upset over Barack Obama was the real shocker of the night.

"Oh, I believe that Obama does not represent the demographic of this state," said Marli Erickson (shown on left), who in 2010 will be president of the Pennington County Republican Party. "He comes from an urban population area in Illinois. I don't see the commonality with South Dakota," she added. As for how John McCain can carry South Dakota, a traditionally Republican state, when it comes to the presidency, "McCain has to do a balancing act," Erickson said. "With the economy at home in the doldrums and the war in Iraq, his platform has equally to address both." Erickson works in the financial industry.

Obama was the last person to speak on the TV tonight. He commended his opponent. "Senator Hillary Clinton made history in this campaign," Obama said from St. Paul, Minnesota. "She has made history, not just because she's a woman...but because she's a leader who inspires millions of Americans." Obama congratulated Clinton for her surprising South Dakota victory and for her overall hard-fought campaign. No hints yet whether she is his VP choice.

A local Republican leader I spoke with, who asked that his name not be used, has some concerns. While he is voting for McCain, he worries the GOP has a tough road ahead with Obama. "He's young; he's articulate; and he has enormous appeal to young people," the man said. "Even in South Dakota, people have flocked to hear him speak." Of McCain's speech tonight, the same Republican expressed more concerns. "It was almost pathetic. It seemed canned," the man said. "There was very little passion in it." Nevertheless, he thinks South Dakota is still Republican enough to be safe for McCain in November. The rest of the nation is his concern.

The most fascinating person I met tonight was an African-American man named Dana Jones. Dana has been a mortgage banker and is a military veteran. He moved here from Orange County, California. He got to meet Obama at a recent rally, where Jones told the candidate that his biggest concern is the nation's high school dropout rate. Jones, who is 44 and working on his MBA, said the two had a good talk. "He fully understands the implications on a global economic standpoint," Jones said. He is also excited that Obama made history. "I feel proud that he's a great candidate who just happens to be black, " Jones said, adding, "Even if he was white, I'd be proud of him." Jones says he supports Obama for his stance on issues, not because they are both black.

It's going to be a great fall campaign. I am heading back to California to get ready! Tell all your friends about www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Conservative Montana Raises Its Voice

2008-06-03T19:29:00.001-07:00

(Broadus, Montana)

It's easy to lose track of the Republican Party in all the clamor over Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama and their down-to-the-wire nomination fight. But South Dakota and Montana are very conservative states; and no matter how the Democrats fare today, it's very likely that both states will land in the GOP column in November.

The Powder River County Courthouse was a busy place as voters cast ballots. County Clerk Karen Amende runs the elections here. "It has been steady, and we always have a good voter turnout here," said Amende. "It's been fun watching the news and having the politicians know Montana is here and that we have a voice."

The local bowling alley, Powder River Lanes & Cafe, was busy at lunch time. Local contractor Rick Higgins was eating with his kids.
He backs John McCain. "I guess I believe in the war we're in," said Higgins. "I believe we are doing good over there. I feel like as soon as we leave, they (the terrorists) are going to come after us again." Higgins is also upset with federal environmental policy that has protected certain species of wolves which now attack and kill livestock, hurting local farmers.

At "Hoofer's" Laundromat and Ice Cream Parlor, they advertise "gossip" on the sign, as well. That's where I found people talking politics, including Danny Johnson, who is running for County Commission, along with Ty Brewer and his dad, Tom Brewer. "I like the Republican stance as far as less government intrusion," said Johnson. "Traditionally, the Democrats follow government programs and have more intrusion, especially on agriculture and farming here." Johnson says Washington, DC, policy is keeping Montana from mining more than 27 billion cubic feet of coal under its soil - a resource that might help ease the nation's energy crunch.

Tom Brewer is pretty vocal, too. "I would definitely support McCain," he said. "You can document this. I will never, ever, in my lifetime vote for a Democrat for president." Brewer supports McCain on Iraq policy and believes the U.S. effort will prevail.

No matter what happens tonight, people in Montana are thrilled that their votes count in this primary process, when all too often in the past the nomination had been decided in Iowa and New Hampshire, long before Montanans cast their ballots.

I will be at McCain's and Obama's headquarters in Rapid City tonight and maybe Clinton's, too! Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Mark Curtis Live From Mount Rushmore, KTVU

2008-06-03T12:25:00.001-07:00

Polls Open in South Dakota and Montana

2008-06-03T05:26:00.000-07:00

(Sturgis, South Dakota)

Polls opened at 7 a.m. in South Dakota and Montana this morning, and it's likely that we will see a record turnout in both states, as we have in most others. There was a steady stream of voters before noon at the Community Center in Sturgis, the western town now famous for its annual motorcycle rally. These are the final two primaries and we could have a Democratic nominee by later Tuesday night. South Dakotans are thrilled. One in Rapid City who has voted since 1973 was overjoyed at all the excitement and all the time candidates have spent here. "This is the first time since I was eighteen that voters in South Dakota mattered, " said Nancy Sutterer. "We've never had this many candidates here."

One of the families I enjoyed meeting were the Mesteths of Rapid City. They are Oglala Sioux and have lived on reservations. Lori Mesteth is backing Hillary Clinton, no matter what. "She's a woman, and she and her husband have both visited the reservation," Said Mesteth. "They were doing a good job when he was in office," she added. Mesteth said her concerns go well beyond Native American issues. She liked the fact that the federal budget was balanced during the Clinton presidency and that health care was improving.

"She's a strong woman, and that is one of the very first things I see about her," she says. "She's a good role model for my daughters." Her fourteen-year-old daughter talked her into attending a Clinton rally. Mesteth and her two daughters support Clinton, but her three sons are backing Obama. So is it a family feud at home? "No," she says. "It's a split family, but as long as they are interested, I don't care," she adds.

Malcom Chapman is the President of the Rapid City City Council. He is thrilled by the turnout and having a strong final primary. "I've been telling people, we're just as important as the other 49 states," said Chapman, as he urged people to get out and vote.

Another Clinton backer here heading out to cast her vote, was Judy Hansen. "I think she's the real deal. I think she's honest, and she knows what she's doing. I think Obama will be a great president in eight years, maybe twelve," Hansen says.

I am heading to Montana to speak with voters there. Check back later today for updates at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Mark Curtis Talks with KPFA Radio

2008-06-02T14:21:00.000-07:00

Showdown in South Dakota and Montana

2008-06-02T13:25:00.001-07:00

(Rapid City, South Dakota)

Hillary Clinton will cross the finish line tomorrow. She may not win, but she ran the gauntlet, and never faltered. Hundreds of supporters lined up inside and outside Tally's Restaurant in downtown Rapid City, South Dakota, this morning, to see the "former First Lady-turned-Senator-turned presidential-hopeful."
Clinton flew all night from Puerto Rico, where she won that primary in a landslide Sunday. She arrived in Rapid City at 3 a.m. and was an hour late for this morning's rally. She was late, but did not disappoint.

Lillian Letner and her adorable four-year old daughter Lauren waited patiently outside. Mrs. Letner is supporting Clinton based on her stances on fiscal policy, health care reform and the environment. Despite Clinton's being down in the polls, Letner is fully behind her. "Actually, I am surprised it is such a close contest," said Letner. "She has the experience and qualifications. To me you go with the proven 'horse.' I think you go with those most qualified to do so."

Letner worked in a hospital for ten years as a health care director. "From an insider's perspective, it's definitely a broken system," she says. "It needs more than just a little tweaking."

Inside, the restaurant is buzzing. All the tables and counters are packed with breakfast diners. One whiff, and you can tell the food is really good here. (I promise to write another one of my famed-restaurant reviews later in the week!). I am pinned in a corner with other press photographers, wedged next to the last booth, where four people are sitting. Harold Hansen of Rapid City is a Vietnam Veteran supporting Clinton. "I supported her husband. We need total change," Hansen says. "A lot of men have trouble with a strong woman, but that's what this country needs."

Hansen's wife is at a booth across the room. One of the people sitting with him is Nancy Sutterer, up until now a total stranger. But when the Secret Service tells you to sit down and to stay where you are, you tend to obey. Anyway, new friends are being made all around the room, and Rapid City is one of the friendliest places I have ever been. Sutterer has been unemployed for the past ten months. "We need massive economic changes in the country," she says. "I've had to move in with my mom, the economy is so bad."

She wants Hillary Clinton to be President, but I ask her if she'd be okay with Hillary as Vice-President. "I think it would be better for her to be on the bottom of the ticket, than not at all," Sutterer says. "We need a woman's perspective in there."

Both Hanson and Sutterer get to meet Mrs. Clinton when she finally arrives.
"Thank you for your service!" Clinton says to Harold Hansen, who wears his Vietnam Veteran hat. He tells me later that when he came home from the war, he was told not to wear his uniform, or people might spit on him. Today he wears the Vietnam hat proudly, and is thrilled when Senator Clinton thanks him. "It feels good. It really feels good," Hansen says. "It makes me feel like what I've done was important."

Clinton shakes hundreds of hands and signs autographs. In a brief appeal to those in the crowd who might still be undecided she says, "Look at the record of what I've achieved over a lifetime." She talks about being ready to be President from "day one" and urges voters to reflect on that when they go into the voting booths Tuesday. "Who would you hire to do the job?" she asks. Then it's off to her final campaign stop in Sioux Falls to campaign with Bill and Chelsea, before heading home to New York.

She ran one hell of a race! She never quit! She may not be the nominee, but she is the first serious female presidential candidate from any party to cross the finish line. That, in and of itself, is remarkable. I have a feeling we've not seen the last of Hillary Clinton.

Tomorrow I will be "live" at Mount Rushmore at 7:45 with Ross McGowan on KTVU's "Mornings on Two!"

Check in for updates at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Mount Rushmore a Stunning Tribute in Campaign 2008

2008-06-01T22:51:00.001-07:00

(Keystone, South Dakota)

I have wanted to go to Mount Rushmore since I was a little kid. Somehow, covering campaign 2008 made it seem like a "must stop" as I crisscross America. The fact that South Dakota, along with Montana, holds its final primary Tuesday helped make my wish come true. Apparently lots of others had the same idea. The presidential race was the talk of the large crowd which came to see the oversized presidents of the past!

The Pelton family was visiting from Colorado Springs. Bradford is an attorney, who came here with his wife Jenny and their ten-year-old daughter Amy. They were simply awestruck. "When we first drove by, I almost started to cry," said Jenny. "It's really cool."

I asked Bradford for his reflections as one in the legal profession, given that the four presidents depicted were so instrumental in shaping this country's Constitution and legal system. "If you think about why, and how, and how long, and how well it has worked in spite of overwhelming opportunities for it to go bad - including the Civil War - it is truly inspiring," said Bradford Pelton.

I did not intend to ask people here for whom they are voting; I was more curious about their reflections on what this monument represents amid the current campaign. "There seems to be a fundamental disconnect between what these guys intended, and what we're hearing today," Bradford says. "But because of this (what the monument represents), we will survive." His daughter Amy volunteers that she wants Barack Obama to win. "That's because his name sounds cool," she says. I recall that I had a similar opinion of the name "Spiro Agnew" when I was ten, and they laugh.

The next four people I spoke with were quite spirited, to say the least! Beverly Smith was here with her husband Ron, and they were joined by Pat Pierson and her husband Park. The couples are senior citizens from New Jersey and Pennsylvania. When I mentioned that I was a reporter, they did not hold back.

Beverly Smith launched a harsh criticism of the Electoral College system. "Why do we vote if someone else is going to choose the president?" she wonders. Pat Pierson looked up at the monument and pondered, "In light of this, I don't think we have presidents with this much character nowadays." She is not a fan of Hillary Clinton. "I don't have a problem with a woman president," she says. "I just have a problem with Hillary." Then her husband Park chimed in, saying, "Obama hasn't said much." Ron Smith bemoaned what he felt was a lack of good choices. "Anyone any good is a CEO," he said. The four kept up a lively debate for quite some time after I bid them farewell.

Another couple I met at Mount Rushmore were Terry and Christina Townsend, from Seattle. Both served in the military; and they were driving from Tennessee to Washington, when they decided to visit Mount Rushmore. He is African-American; she is Filipino and awaiting her U.S. citizenship. Both are fascinated with the current campaign, and Mount Rushmore only fueled the discussion. "If you think about it, it's possible to have the first black president or the first female president," said Christina. "It's history."

Terry, who served in the Marines, was reflective, too. "To me, I am just curious to see how America adjusts to whoever wins," Terry says. "How will people accept it? Is it going to pull us together, or tear us apart? It's interesting." Christina laments that she won't be able to vote, since she is not a citizen yet. Despite this, she serves in the U.S. Army, including duty in Iraq. It seems ironic and, perhaps, quite unfair, as we stand before the Mt. Rushmore monument.

I was spellbound at Mount Rushmore. A man I met in Rapid City urged me to go in time for the night time ceremony and the lighting of the monument after dark. It was a stunning tribute I will never forget. The best part was that veterans in the audience were invited on stage for the retiring of the colors. Each was asked his name and branch of service as he touched the flag that was folded thirteen times in the shape of a triangle. The crowd erupted in applause after the final veteran spoke. We were also treated to all four stanzas of "The Star Spangled Banner." Since we rarely hear them all, they are worth looking up on the Internet and reading.

President Teddy Roosevelt was the "Father of the National Park System," along with his good friend John Muir. Looking down from the mountain tonight, T.R. must have been proud of a job well done!

I will be "live" on KPFA-FM 94.1 at 7:05 tomorrow, as I continue my coverage of the final primaries of 2008. Check back often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Clinton Wins Puerto Rico; Final Showdown Looms Out West

2008-06-01T17:06:00.001-07:00

(Rapid City, South Dakota)

Hillary Clinton smothered Barack Obama in the Puerto Rico primary today, with a 68 to 32 percent landslide victory. She also took 38 delegates to Obama's 17. So, she is closing the gap, but can she close it all the way?

That question looms over South Dakota and Montana, as they get set for the final two primaries on Tuesday. Today I spent time with both supporters of Clinton and of Obama at their respective offices in Rapid City. Even though it was a Sunday, the offices were beehives of activity, as people worked phone banks or prepared to go out and canvass neighborhoods.

Whitney Dinger is a 19-year-old student at the University of Central Oklahoma who flew in to help the campaign, even though she had never been on a plane before and was scared to death. "A little bit of tears," she said about getting on the plane. "I was nervous about the plane ride, but excited to be here." So why did she brave her fear of flying for Hillary Clinton's now long-shot bid for the nomination? "I believe in health care coverage for every American," Dinger says, "and her plan, in my opinion, is the only plan that can accomplish that."

Also in the Clinton office today was retired Methodist minister Lin Jennewein. She believes Clinton's vast experience greatly outweighs that of Obama, a first-term Senator. "Tremendous! The experience that she has, that would take her into the Presidency," Jennewein says. "For me, I always hear her speak to the problem, here is the solution, and how we're going to get the money," adds Jennewein. Oddly enough, she isn't hoping Clinton is named the VP running mate. "I don't think so," Jennewein says. "I would like to see her get a marvelous position on the U.S. Supreme Court." Jennewein says the high court carries more weight than the Vice-presidency. "She would make the important decisions affecting Americans over the next twenty years," says Jennewein.

Across town, the Obama campaign headquarters had characters who are every bit as interesting and every bit as busy. Dean Henderson is a Harley-Davidson-riding former Republican. He switched parties after meeting and hearing Obama in Sioux City a year ago.
"I think he represents a change that we've been looking for with the loss of honesty in Washington," says Anderson. He adds that he has "a lot of disappointment in the disconnect of the Republican Party." Anderson says Washington, DC has too much focus on protecting large corporate entities, and farmers in South Dakota and elsewhere are ignored. "These are people who have worked the land, and the Republican Party has forgotten them," Anderson says.

Also helping out at Obama headquarters was retired Washington, DC, lawyer Ed Gerwin. He flew out to South Dakota to volunteer for Obama. He wants government reform. "In Washington, you get to see the mess close up," Gerwin says. "It's such a mess. People aren't working together. People are playing political games." Gerwin says he knows it will take time. "No one person can fix this in four to eight years, but you have to start somewhere," he says.

We will be visiting the Republican Party headquarters here this week, as John McCain has yet to open a full-time campaign office. South Dakota has voted Republican for President for many decades.

I will be on KPFA-FM Radio 94.1 in the Bay Area at 7:05 Monday morning, with more analysis on the presidential campaign from Montana and South Dakota. As always, check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot,com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Get Out Your Calculators!

2008-05-31T20:15:00.000-07:00

(Danville, California)

Not long ago, I bought two new household calculators from the office supply store. Today I needed them. The long-awaited decision by the Democratic National Committee regarding the disputed delegates from Florida and Michigan is in. It's a bit complicated, but follow along! All the numbers have changed:

Needed to Nominate: 2,118

Total Now Including Florida & Michigan:

Obama: 2,052

Clinton: 1,877.5

How Many Short?

Obama: 66

Clinton: 240.5

Up for Grabs This Week:

Puerto Rico: 55

South Dakota: 15

Montana: 16

This week should be a split, with Clinton winning Puerto Rico Sunday, but Obama taking South Dakota and Montana on Tuesday. Obama will be just a bit short, but more Super Delegates will come forward; and by Tuesday night, when he addresses the crowd in St. Paul, I predict he will have enough delegates to capture the nomination.

So what happens to Hillary Clinton? As I have predicted for weeks, she will be the "reluctant" VP choice. It will be a "shotgun marriage," as he doesn't like her and she doesn't like him. But they need each other if the Democrats are to beat John McCain in November. The Democrats just "surrendered" Florida to the GOP Saturday, with the DNC vote. Michigan remains up for grabs, but it is a "must win" for Democrats in November. Plenty of Michiganders and Floridians feel downright abandoned by the DNC vote Saturday, so there will be a backlash.`

The fight may not be over this week either. Clinton strategist and high-powered lawyer Harold Ickes, Jr., is threatening a floor fight at the August convention in Denver or legal action. Ickes angrily informed the party's Rules Committee that Clinton had instructed him to reserve her right to appeal the matter to the Democrats' Credentials Committee, which could potentially drag the matter to the party's convention in August.

"There's been a lot of talk about party unity: Let's all come together and put our arms around each other," said Ickes, who is also a member of the Rules Committee that approved the deal. "I submit to you, ladies and gentlemen, hijacking four delegates ... is not a good way to start down the path of party unity."

All in all, the race for the White House is wide open, and I predict another one-state margin, just as we had in 2000 (Florida) and in 2004 (Ohio). As of now, I predict this year's deciding state will be......Colorado or New Mexico!

I will be in South Dakota and Montana on Sunday and will be there until Wednesday. Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

(Associated Press contributed to this report)

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

The Politics of Kindness and Generosity

2008-05-31T00:09:00.001-07:00

(Oakland, California)

As I travel the country this year covering the presidential election, I have listened to countless speeches from politicians and others about what the government can do and needs to do to make the nation a better place. The problem is, and let's be honest here, the government can't do everything. In fact, in many cases, it can't do a fraction of what politicians promise, nor should it.

The nation's private sector can, and does a lot of good charitable work that goes widely unnoticed. Take, for example, the Habitat for Humanity homebuilding I attended this morning in Oakland, California. The event was sponsored by Roger and Judy Haughton, a couple I have known for quite some years now. Roger is the retired CEO of the PMI Group, Inc., a huge insurance company. The Haughtons decided to make a personal gift of $50,000, which was matched by a corporate gift from PMI, Roger's former employer. "We are so thankful that we are able to have family here, business associates, people who have touched our lives," said Roger Haughton.

The Haughtons are kind and generous people, with whom I have worked on various charity events in the past. Roger rose to be one of the top insurance executives in the nation (and, I am sure, was well compensated for it). But instead of keeping it all to himself, he, with his wife and children, has spent a lifetime of sharing and giving back to the community. Let's face it, a lot of other big-shot business executives would have spent the fifty grand on cars, vacations, art work, or wine collections. But not so the Haughtons. "When I saw this, I said, 'How can I pass up a sponsorship opportunity?'" Roger said.

Today, dozens of family, friends, and former co-workers showed up to pound nails, saw wood, cut insulation and do just about everything else needed to build a new home.
The house is part of a "Habitat for Humanity" development in Oakland, that will eventually include 54 new homes. This is a tough part of town. Oakland is one of the most violent cities its size in America. Murders are common; and, sad to say, they happen not far from this Edes Avenue location. But this new neighborhood offers new hope.

"This is profound change," said Janice Jensen, Executive Director of Habit for Humanity-East Bay, "taking a blight and completely changing it to revitalize a neighborhood." Earlier, when I was being critical of politicians who promise a "government-do-all" solution to everything, I was not suggesting government has no role. Government can be a great (and necessary) partner in private ventures such as this. For example, the Edes Avenue site was built where a former petroleum company once existed, and money was needed from the federal EPA and the state of California to clean up the site. So, the government cleans and clears the site; and civic minded people and companies come in with a well-known national charity, and partner to make the sun rise again for some families in need.

"You leave with the heart knowledge that this is really something you can do to permanently change the life of a family," said Judy Haughton, as she choked back tears. She also spoke of the young kids who grow up in the violent and economically depressed neighborhoods nearby. The new home becomes key not only to their family, but to their education as well. "They have a place to go home and study with a desk and a room," says Judy. To be sure, she says, the people pounding the nails today also benefit from doing a good deed. "Sometime I think it's the volunteers who comes away with more," she says.

But ultimately, says Roger Haughton, it is the family that moves in that receives the greatest benefit. "We build a house; they are going to build a home," says Haughton.

I was thrilled to be a part of today's event. As part of my new business venture, I have promised to showcase and promote good causes in our communities, such as Special Olympics and Habitat for Humanity. In this political season, I think it's important to realize that our government can't do everything; and it's critical for private individuals like the Haughtons and corporations such as PMI, to step in and help our communities in need. If you want to help, check the local Habitat web site at www.habitatEB.org.

Sunday it's back on the campaign trail, as I head to South Dakota and Montana for the final two primaries on Tuesday. Check in at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

A Chill Wind Blows Through Michigan

2008-05-30T06:31:00.001-07:00

(New Buffalo, Michigan)

If there is a more beautiful coastal town in America, I don't know it. This week my campaign travels took me to the tiny coastal town of New Buffalo, Michigan. This is embarrassing to say, but although I lived in Wisconsin for my first 25 years, I had never set foot in Michigan (except to change planes). I had always wanted to stand on a beach on the other side of lake Michigan, and - at age 49 - I finally reached that goal.

The view was breathtaking! But it was cold, and a 30-knot wind was blowing from the west across the lake. The waves were at least 10 feet high. Michigan was angry (the lake that is, and many of the voters, too!)

The weather was a fitting analogy for where Michigan is in this year's presidential campaign. Many voters feel a "chill wind" has blown through their desire to be "kingmakers" (or "queenmakers") in this year's campaign. Michigan and Florida have both been penalized by the Democratic National Committee (DNC), for moving up their primary elections, despite party orders not to do so. As a result, their delegates are not being recognized and may not be seated at the Democratic National Convention in August.

Without the Florida and Michigan delegates, Hillary Clinton cannot win the nomination; and even if they're counted, she remains a long shot! If Barack Obama is the nominee, he faces the daunting task of trying to win both states in November, even though many Democrats who feel disenfranchised are threatening to stay home.

Cherie Heyn works on the beach at New Buffalo. She voted for Hillary Clinton in the primary and is disappointed over where this dispute has left her candidate. "I think she should be the president," Heyn says. I broach the prospect of Clinton's being Obama's vice-presidential running mate, and I get a reaction chillier than the wind. "I doubt that, too," Heyn says, clearly not hiding her disappointment.

She is a very kind, friendly lady, and smiles when I mention how beautiful her town is and that I want to come back to vacation. But I can tell my questions are reopening a wound that has really hurt people in Michigan. They want to make a difference, but feel their voice is not being counted. As to whether the DNC members will decide at their Saturday meeting in Washington that they are going to count Michigan and Florida, Heyn simply states, "They either are, or they're not."

I don't dare ask her if she is prepared to support Obama. I have made that mistake before when talking to those still clinging to Clinton and got stares more piercing than the Lake Michigan wind. Instead, I ask whether she is concerned about Democrats staying home in November. To my surprise, she says, "I don't think that's so." How many other Michigan Democrats share that optimism is unclear; but, as Heyn adds, "Only time will tell."

This weekend I return to California; then on Sunday I am off to South Dakota and Montana for the final two primaries which are on Tuesday.

Check back often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Memorial Day Memories

2008-05-29T06:42:00.001-07:00

(Elm Grove, Wisconsin)

Memorial Day was Monday, but I've been having trouble writing about it, because I have such bittersweet memories this year. The 2008 political campaign has really excited me as an American (and as a reporter), because I have never seen the public so engaged in the process in my lifetime. But Memorial Day was especially hard this year after my dad passed away. Our family home of 47 years is being sold. The house is right on the Memorial Day parade route and has been the scene of family parties for decades. This was the final one!

The Elm Grove parade is, I suspect, like many across America. Small town; lots of veterans; lots of grandparents and babies; lots of everything in between. It's "Americana" and very heartwarming and colorful.

More than anything, I was fixated on the veterans in this year's parade, many of them of the World War II era, as was my dad. They are dying at a rate of more than a thousand a week. Like World War I vets, they will eventually be gone. But we must always hold them in our individual and collective national memory. As Tom Brokaw characterized them, they are "The Greatest Generation" that bailed us out of the Great Depression, saved us in World War II, and then built the most vibrant and generous democracy the world has ever known.

Ed Rolland was a lander on Normandy Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944. I asked him what being recognized in this parade more than 60 years later meant to him. "Oh this is great," he said, sounding a bit choked up. Thousands of people, young and old, waved American flags as his car passed by. Many shouted, "Thank you!" There were vets from Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and other conflicts in the parade as well.

A bit about my dad, before I go. First, he loved this parade and the annual party with neighbors and friends. He was the gentlest and most generous man I've ever known - both father and friend. "Doc" was a senior at Campion Jesuit High School in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, the day that Pearl Harbor was attacked. Like many in his class, he would never formally finish high school. "They mailed me my diploma," he once told me. My Grandfather Curtis was a doctor, and my dad was planning on medical school, too. Now, the nation needed thousands of doctors for the war. So he left high school early, took a few basic undergraduate courses in biology and chemistry at Marquette University, and was promptly enrolled in Marquette Medical School with classes year round. There were no such things as spring break or summer recess. The nation was at war. He was a fully-trained and licensed physician at the amazingly young age of 22 and was commissioned a medical officer in the United States Navy in 1947.

The war, thank God, was over by then; but the military still needed all those doctors to treat the thousands of wounded and disabled who came home. Dad was stationed in the Navy at Bremerton, Washington. Eventually he was discharged, came back to Milwaukee, got married and started a family, and began a medical practice. Then the Korean War broke out; and he was called back to active duty, serving at the Great Lakes Naval base in Chicago and commuting for years, while holding a "night time medical practice" in Milwaukee. In 1990 he began working for the Defense Department again, this time as a civilian. He worked 17 years doing military physicals on young recruits at the Military Entrance Processing Service (MEPS). He died a week shy of his 83rd birthday and was still a practicing physician of 60 years at the time of his death. To his family, he was a loving husband, father and grandfather; and we will miss him until the end of time.

Today's column is dedicated to the memory of Lt. William C. Curtis, M.D. (USN), December 27, 1924, to December 21, 2008, and all those he stood shoulder-to-shoulder with as part of "the Greatest Generation."

As "Papa" would always say, "God Bless!"

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Avoiding a Repeat of 2008 Primary Fight

2008-05-28T10:11:00.001-07:00

(Buchanan, Michigan)

This week's campaign travel took me to Buchanan, a beautiful town of about 5,000 people, in Berrien County, Michigan. (Berrien County lies just across the Indiana state line and is perhaps best known as the home of Benton Harbor, a coastal city.)

Buchanan may be the birthplace of an idea which could change American politics. The goal is finally to remove Iowa and New Hampshire from always holding the "first-in-the-nation" caucuses and primary elections. This year Michigan and Florida, as two of our nation's largest states, broke the party rules and tried to leapfrog the other early primaries in an effort to exert greater influence on the presidential process. Like many of the people in other heavily populated states, Michiganders and Floridians are tired of having less say in choosing the nominees of both parties.

"Look at the state of Iowa," says local Democratic activist Jess Minks. "It is a very small minority (of the U.S. population)." Only three serious Democratic candidates survived Iowa, and only four Republicans. By Super Tuesday, when 24 states cast ballots, such favorites as John Edwards and Rudy Giuliani were gone. Millions of voters never had a chance to have their opinions count.

The issue of what states go first is not entirely political either. Some of it is economic. "Iowa gets ten million dollars each year," says local Democratic candidate John Klimek. And he has a point. The early primaries and caucuses are front loaded with media, delegates, party activists, etc. That's a lot of hotel rooms and restaurant receipts. The economic boon is a bonus. Later states aren't so prosperous, especially if a nominee is selected early.

What the Michigan delegation would like to see is a staggered primary season. The nation would be divided into three regions: East, central and west. Each individual region would hold a lottery to see which four states vote first, and then the other regions and states would rotate over the course of weeks, if not months. Every primary season would begin with a different region. Imagine in January of 2012 New Mexico, Oregon, Montana and Utah having the first four primaries. The following week, it might rotate to Michigan, Delaware, New York and Kentucky. The next week, Wisconsin, Oklahoma, North Dakota and Texas. Then in 2016 the primaries might start in the east, and maybe New Hampshire gets to go first again. The idea is variety and change. The state order would be determined by lottery.

"Finally, everyone is going to get an opportunity to go first," says Jess Minks. His cohort John Klimek says the idea of a more equitable system is crucial to retaining all the young voters who got involved this year - young voters who had appeared indifferent in the past. "This young, vibrant group that is now involved is going to walk away," Klimek says, "if the primary system is not fixed."

Michigan and Florida bucked the party and lost their delegates in the process. In many ways it was a protest vote. On Saturday a committee of the Democratic National Committee meets in Washington, DC, to decide the fates of those disputed convention delegates. Hillary Clinton can't win the nomination without them, and Barack Obama may not win in November without their support if they walk away.

"What Michigan and Florida are doing is the right thing," says Jess Minks. We'll find out Saturday, and again in 2012, whether he is right!

I will have more on the campaign from the Midwest this week, then it's on to South Dakota and Montana Sunday for the final two primaries on Tuesday. By the way, Puerto Rico votes on Sunday. There is a lot going on, so keep checking at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Michigan and Florida Decision Looms

2008-05-27T20:46:00.001-07:00

(Buchanan, Michigan)

Decision time is finally nearing to ultimately settle the fate of Democratic convention delegates from Michigan and Florida. You'll recall that both states were penalized by the Democratic National Committee for moving their primaries ahead of the February 5 "Super Tuesday." As of now, their delegates are not to be seated. Hillary Clinton won both states and is counting on their delegates as her last, best shot at winning the nomination.

I traveled to Michigan Tuesday to speak with voters and party officials about their hopes for this Saturday's big DNC meeting in Washington, DC. Not only are the primary delegates at stake, but turnout in November could be affected, too. First stop was the South Berrien County Democratic Club headquarters. That's where I met up with Jess Minks and John Klimek, two active party leaders who are both candidates for the County Commission. Both are busy watching what happens in Washington, DC.
"We want to make sure our votes count," says Minks. "The delegates will be seated when this is over," he believes. Minks theorizes that Barack Obama will have enough committed Super Delegates by this weekend to win the nomination, making the meeting a moot point.

Various ideas have been kicked around, including the possibility that each delegate from Michigan and Florida would be counted as only a half-vote. Critics say that violates the principal of "one man,one vote" and could open the door to a legal fight by the Clinton campaign.

The bigger issue to many is what happens in November if Florida and Michigan are not counted. If angry voters stay home in both states, John McCain will likely win the White House.
John Klimek makes his living as a contractor, and he worries about turning off young voters who turned out in record numbers this year. "The fear is that our children and grandchildren will be disenfranchised," he says. "Those young people, whom we need to step forward in years to come, will say, 'I'm not getting involved.'"

For Jess Minks, that prospect means only one thing. "The candidates will sit down," he says. "We'll see if Hillary Clinton is vice-president. They'll work this thing out. Neither one of the candidates wants to see the Party split or divided." The concern about a split in the party, though, is well illustrated by an editorial cartoon that hangs on the wall.

Despite Minks's optimism, the phone has been busy at the local Democratic headquarters. One woman called while I was there today, promising never to donate to the party again. She is one of the local voters angry at the national party. Minks, who is a retired coal miner turned political organizer, tried to calm her down and to explain that the situation would be fixed. "She was very upset," he said. "She called the DNC in Washington to find what's going on." He added hopefully, "She'll go back to making donations."

My trip to Michigan was fascinating. Democrats here have an idea which they believe will prevent these fights in the future, through a system of rotating primaries. We'll talk more about that in my next column.

Check in at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Thanks to Our Military this Memorial Day Weekend!

2008-05-25T12:22:00.001-07:00

(Stockton, California)

I was at a John McCain rally in Stockton on Thursday and was struck by how many people in uniform are supporting him. McCain, of course, is a Vietnam veteran. He was a Navy fighter pilot who was shot down and spent five and a half years as a prisoner of war (POW) in the dreaded "Hanoi Hilton." So, it's not surprising to see a lot of veterans at his rally.

Al Lennox was in the Navy, serving in Vietnam. "John McCain understands the needs of veterans," Lennox said. "He will be such a great President. He completely understands dealing with veterans in the modern world."

Certainly there are other veterans who support other candidates. For example, Rep. Joe Sestak (D-PA), a retired Navy Admiral, is backing Hillary Clinton. And retired General Tony McPeak, who once commanded allied forces in Iraq, is backing Barack Obama. My point is, that without the military, our freedom to vote for whom we wish would not exist. A strong and well-supported military means we can vote Democrat, Republican, Green, Independent, etc. So this weekend we need to remember those who died defending our country and the others who fought with them and are still with us today.

Al Lennox is a McCain backer, but he is also the incoming State Commander of the American Legion. With that in mind, I asked him for a more bipartisan comment about what his hopes are for this weekend in terms of public recognition. "It's huge," he said. "If everybody would just pause and reflect on our country - reflect on how many veterans died and fought for our freedom - we, as veterans, would be extremely grateful." He also added, "Enjoy your families!"

Depicted in this photo are veterans who now reside in Sutter Creek, California. From left to right they are: Kit Meitinger (Army, Vietnam); Bob Cozad (Air Force, Vietnam); Al Lennox (Navy, Vietnam); and Richard Barghooan (Navy, Vietnam).

Also present at the McCain rally was a group of Lao veterans. They fought on the U.S. side in Vietnam and now live in freedom in California. God bless those, young and old, who have served and protected our country.

I will be in Wisconsin and Michigan this week, covering Memorial Day and looking ahead to this week's big Democratic National Committee meeting concerning the fate of the disputed Michigan and Florida delegates.

Check in at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Mean What You Say; Say What You Mean

2008-05-24T11:11:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

In the world of politics (and in life, for that matter), there is an old saying: "Mean what you say; and say what you mean!" It's good advice, and I bet Sen. Hillary Clinton wishes she'd taken it before talking with the "Sioux Falls Argus" editorial board.

Clinton referenced the fact that her husband Bill did not wrap up the Democratic nomination until June of 1992. And then she mentioned the assassination of Robert Kennedy in June, 1968, as a reason she will still be in this race, come June, 2008. The reference was unfortunate, because it makes it sound as if she is staying in "just in case something bad happens this time!"

That's NOT what she meant! All she needed to say was "The nomination was undecided in June when my husband ran in 1992, just as the nomination was not settled in June, 1968."
She could have saved herself a lot of trouble by leaving the assassination reference out. Her statement would have been historically accurate, without being insensitive.

Let's be frank here. People's assassination fears are up this year, with the first serious presidential contender in U.S. history who happens to be biracial. Here are two facts that back this up: 1) Colin Powell decided not to run in 1996, in large part, because of his wife's fears he would be a target; 2) Barack Obama has had full Secret Service protection since January, way before any of the other candidates, because serious threats had been made against him. (Hillary Clinton had a tiny contingent, as an ex-First Lady, but no one else had any Secret Service detail four months ago).

It is sad that we have to discuss protection of our leaders, but there is at least one thing we learned from Bobby Kennedy's assassination (and the others, too!), and that is we don't ever want it to happen again!

I will be in Wisconsin and Michigan the next few days, celebrating Memorial Day and covering the disputed Michigan delegates. Then it's on to South Dakota and Montana for the final primaries on June 3.

Check back often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Hot Congressional Races on Tap, Too!

2008-05-23T10:27:00.001-07:00

(Stockton, California)

We've focused so much on the presidential race this year that it is easy to ignore some sensational races for the House and Senate which could swing the balance in either body. Whoever controls Congress will have a big impact on the President's agenda, no matter whether that's Obama, McCain or Clinton. And remember: It isn't always Democrat vs. Republican. The "death" of the Clinton health care reform effort in 1994 was very much due to its being undermined by key Democrats, angry that they were left out of the process.

That said, I am excited to be living in the Congressional district that is considered the "top one or two" contested seats this year. Freshman Congressman Jerry McNerney (D-CA 11th) was such an upstart two years ago that he defeated the Democratic party's hand-picked candidate, who was backed by Nancy Pelosi, et al. Then McNerney (with a lot of outside help from anti-war activists) defeated longtime GOP Congressman Richard Pombo, in the biggest upset of the 2006 election.

The problem for Democrats is that this is a very large and in some areas, a quite conservative district (at least when compared to the rest of the very liberal Bay Area). It stretches from Stockton, in the conservative San Joaquin Valley, to the more moderate-to-liberal sections of the East Bay, such as Pleasanton (where McNerney lives). In between, there are more conservative pockets in Tracy and Danville (where I live). The economy is a mix of old and new - ; lots of agriculture, lots of high-tech. The Bay Area's only Republican State Assembly member is from this district. And it is one of the few California districts that George W. Bush won in 2004.

Enter Dean Andal, age 48, as the Republican candidate. Andal spent four years in the State Assembly. "I call it four years in Purgatory!" he says, referring to the dominant Democrat presence in the Assembly. Andal then spent eight years on the California Board of Equalization, which is a powerful elected body that has an impact on tax and spending policy. So, he's very experienced and well known. Andal is from Stockton, the most conservative end of the district.

We spoke at a rally Thursday for John McCain, which was "emceed" by Andal, giving him a yet higher profile. "I really feel a calling," said Andal. "The country's at a crossroads right now." He knows that the liberal McNerney is vulnerable in this centrist-to-right-leaning district. "Jerry is a nice guy, but he's very much to the left," says Andal.

Andal was boosted when his primary opponent dropped out, leaving him able to focus straight on to the November election. The campaign is already quite busy. "It's going great," Andal says. "We have walked about 25 percent of the district door-to-door." He is concentrating on the far west and south ends of the district, where he is not so well known and where the voters are more moderate than his conservative base in the east end of the district. He says he has raised about $700,000 so far, but he says he will need a lot more, since the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee will be pouring millions in here, trying keep the seat (as will the Republican Party, trying to take it back).

"This is going to be one of the top two races in the country for challengers," Andal said. And he's not alone in that opinion. The well-respected "Rothenberg Political Report" recently changed the status of this race from "leaning Democrat" to "toss up." That is a very good sign for Dean Andal. For more information: www.deanandal.com.

As the campaign progresses, I will also interview Rep. Jerry McNerney and write a column about him, as well. His office called to set up an interview after reading this blog! Watch for some special Memorial Day columns about our veterans in the coming days.

Keep dialed in at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

McCain Promises to Fight for California

2008-05-22T19:06:00.001-07:00

(Stockton, California)

Sen. John McCain pledged to wage battle in California this summer and fall, for the Presidency of the United States. That's an unusual promise for a Republican, as many in the GOP have written California off as a Democratic state. But Ronald Reagan carried his home state twice, and George H.W. Bush won here in 1988. The point is that - with the right GOP candidate - it may be possible to win here. McCain is from neighboring Arizona and is a moderate Republican. He noted that both states have issues in common, including severe water shortages. "Barry Goldwater used to say that we have so little water in Arizona, the trees chase the dogs," McCain said to roaring laughter.

McCain appeared before a late afternoon crowd in a hangar at the Stockton Airport. Earlier, he made two appearances in the San Francisco Bay area. Stockton is pretty conservative, while the Bay Area is quite liberal. Still, the South Bay has conservative pockets and big-wallet donors from Silicon Valley, who lean Republican. So the candidate may have been here more for the money, but also to raise the profile of a very viable Republican Congressional candidate named Dean Andal, who is running against a first-term Democrat in a right-leaning district. That race is a potential GOP gain in the House.

Terrorism and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan were front and center for the former Vietnam War POW. "We face the transcendent challenge of radical Islamic extremism," McCain said. A woman in the crowd caused a ruckus when she interrupted by screaming, "Iran is not a threat." She was escorted out, as the crowd chanted, "We want Mac! We want Mac!" McCain added his signature line from the campaign: "If I have to chase him to the gates of hell, I will get Osama bin Laden." The crowd cheered wildly again.

Of his likely November opponent, McCain said, "I respect Senator Obama. For a young man with very little experience, he has done very well." But McCain criticized Obama's willingness to sit down and talk with sworn U.S. enemies, such as the leader of Iran. "History shows that we don't negotiate with terrorists," McCain said. Taking another shot at Obama, he said, "Setting a date for withdrawal (from Iraq) is setting a date for surrender, and I will never surrender."

The crowd was estimated at 1,200. Among those in attendance, a woman named Bobbie from the Bay Area. She is a Democrat who is crossing over to McCain. So why not Obama? "I'm a Democrat, but I just don't trust him," Bobbie said. "If it was Hillary, I could vote for her; but he (Obama) just doesn't have the experience."

Also in the crowd were Becky Moreno and her daughters Sarah, 14, Arianna, 11, and her two-year-old son Michael, who was born on the 4th of July. Moreno is a lifelong resident of Stockton. She's backing McCain. "I think he's a man of integrity," Moreno said. "We need him!"

McCain also talked about cutting wasteful spending in Washington and vetoing the current farm bill, as well as many others. "I've got a veto pen. I've got a pen Ronald Reagan gave me years ago," McCain said. "I am going veto every pork barrel project."

The GOP candidate stuck around to shake many hands and then held a news conference. At that news conference McCain condemned the very controversial remarks of the Rev. John Hagee and then renounced Hagee's endorsement. Hagee had discussed a theory, based on Biblical prophesy, that Adolf Hilter drove the Jews back to the promised land. McCain called the remarks "crazy and unacceptable."

While in Stockton, I interviewed Congressional candidate Dean Andal, who is running in a district that stretches from the San Joaquin Valley to the Bay Area. We'll have more on that in tomorrow's blog.

Check back often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Both Candidates Begin VP Searches

2008-05-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

(Danville, California)

The two likely presidential nominees have officially launched their search for vice-presidential running mates. John McCain has invited some folks to his Sedona, Arizona, home for a Memorial Day weekend barbecue. Barack Obama has appointed a longtime democratic power broker to begin his search.

Among those invited to the McCain party are Gov. Charlie Crist (R-FL) and Gov. Bobby Jindal (R-LA). Crist is a more likely choice, as Florida and Texas are the cornerstones for a GOP victory in November, just as New York and California are the cornerstones for Democrats. Jindal is an interesting idea. He's 36, an Indian-American and a former member of Congress. Louisiana is a "must win" for Republicans after the botched response to Hurricane Katrina (which, in fairness, was a bipartisan mishandling at the federal, state and local levels). Former Gov. Mike Huckabee (R-AR) has already stated that he would like to be the VP, and former Gov. Mitt Romney (R-MA) is also invited to the McCain BBQ!

On the Democratic side, Obama has asked longtime Democratic operative Jim Johnson to lead his VP search, as Johnson did for Walter Mondale in 1984 and for John Kerry in 2004. Certainly Sen. Hillary Clinton will be considered. Other possibilities are Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-MO), as Missouri is a "must win" state for either party. Former Sen. Bob Kerrey (D-NE) or former Sen. Sam Nunn (D-GA)
are also being looked at to offset the foreign policy inexperience of Obama.

Just remember "Mark's First Commandment" for presidential (and VP) politics: "Thou shalt win thy own state!" John Edwards sank Kerry in 2004 by not winning North Carolina, and Al Gore sank himself in 2000 by not winning Tennessee.

Sen. John McCain is holding a rally in Stockton, California, later today, and I will be there.

Check back at www.MarkCurtisMedia.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Grazing on the Campaign Trail: Oregon

2008-05-21T10:54:00.001-07:00

(Beaverton, Oregon)

In the spirit of the late, great "New York Times" political reporter and food critic R.W. Apple, Jr., today we continue our series about great dining on the campaign trail. This week's trip to the Oregon primary took me to "Jake's Crawfish and Seafood," which was recommended by Mike, the photographer from KPTV, with whom I was working. My old friend Brad Belstock, of KOIN-TV, also said it was great.

I was told they have a wonderful "Happy Hour," so I arrived promptly at 5 p.m., since the Obama "victory rally" was not for another two hours." It's an old wooden barroom-style restaurant, first opened in 1892. Cool place, with lots of photos of famous political figures.

The food was spectacular; and the prices, unreal! From the "Happy Hour" $1.95 menu, I chose a local oyster shooter, in cocktail sauce. Also for $1.95, I ordered the Tempura Seared Ahi Spring Roll. OHMIGOD! With wasabi, fresh ginger and a soy dipping sauce. Not to be satisfied, I had to try the local Seafood Etouffee. Chunks of salmon, dungeness crab, shrimp, crawfish and God-only-knows-what else was in a huge bowl with nut brown sauce and white rice. It could have fed three people. The price? Just $3.95, plus bread and butter. My meal was under nine bucks! (The Chateau St. Jean Chardonnay from Sonoma was a bit extra!). Happy hour ends at 6 p.m., so get there before and order food at the bar!

The bartenders and waitresses are very friendly and chatty. Joe, the bartender, has been here 16 years and loves it. "Never a dull moment," he says. "Jake's" is a popular tourist spot, as well as a haunt for locals.

"Jake's" is also something of a political mini-museum, with some classic photos, including Harry Truman's famed 1948 presidential victory, when the "Chicago Tribune" got it all wrong.

There is also an old Nixon campaign poster.

The talk of the bar, though, is a photo showing Presidents Kennedy, Johnson (then VP), Eisenhower and Truman in a church pew. It's one of those rare, "Mt. Rushmore" type pictures. A handful of us argued for about thirty minutes about where it was taken. Finally, I correctly guessed it was at the funeral for legendary House Speaker Sam Rayburn of Texas.

Anyway, "Jake's Crawfish" is a real Portland treat for the food, the history and the good company. It is located at 410 12th Street SW, Portland, OR.

Thursday I will be covering a rally for GOP Sen. John McCain in Stockton. Keep it tuned to www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food.

Huge Turnout in Rainy Oregon Primary, KTVU

2008-05-21T08:10:00.001-07:00

Split Decision; Final Rounds Loom

2008-05-20T22:41:00.001-07:00

(Portland, Oregon)

Think Joe Frazier and Mohammed Ali. They split the first two fights; they split the first 12 rounds of bout number three. There are three rounds left: June 1 in Puerto Rico and June 3 in South Dakota and Montana.

Tonight it was a split decision, again! Sen. Hillary Clinton won the Kentucky primary, 65 percent to 30 percent. But, Sen. Barack Obama won the Oregon primary, 58 to 42 percent. As of tonight, Obama has now gained a majority of the pledged delegates, which he believes makes him the all-but-certain nominee. The Clinton team is not giving up, with campaign chairman Terry McAuliffe saying, "This thing goes on. I don't know why people say it's over. It's another 2 to 1 victory tonight in Kentucky"

You'd have a hard time convincing the Obama campaign rally in Portland tonight. The crowd went wild when CNN projected Obama the winner, shortly after 8 p.m. Democratic Congressman Earl Blumenauer spoke to the hundreds gathered, saying that the Sunday rally that approached 70,000 here was the clincher for Obama. "It was the largest rally in the country for any candidate," said Blumenauer. "We've got 1.6 million people who financed this campaign," he added.

Despite all the euphoria, I spoke with former Gov. Barbara Roberts (D-OR), who offered a more sobering outlook. "All the enthusiasm we feel tonight has to start tomorrow morning, and the day after, and the day after that," Roberts said. At 71, Roberts is a lifelong pol who has seen the Democratic Party's enthusiasm in the spring fade by the fall election. She cautioned against that tonight. Whether the Obama legions heeds her advice remains to be seen. "This is the first time in 40 years our votes mattered," she said of Oregon's role in the 2008 presidential primary.

Governor Roberts told supporters they should even forego their summer vacations to work on the Obama campaign. That's when Huma Pierce, a 33-year-old local chiropractor, shouted out, "We can't afford the gas (for a vacation)" and the crowd erupted in laughter.

Later when I spoke with Pierce, her reasoning for supporting Obama was bereft of any humor at all. "I just can't afford my father's health insurance," she said, "He has Parkinson's." Pierce's father is 73, and she supports Obama's plan for national health care for him and others like him.

On a lighter note, I will continue my popular columns of great food stops on the campaign trail. Look for my review of the legendary "Jake's Crawfish and Seafood" later on Wednesday. Thursday John McCain campaigns in Northern Califronia and we'll have more on that.

Speaking of Wednesday. I will be "live" with Ross McGowan on KTVU's "Mornings on Two" at 7:45.

Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food.

Campaign HQ's Are Beehives of Activity!

2008-05-20T14:44:00.001-07:00

(Portland, Oregon)

If you ever want to visit a political nerve center, then visit a campaign headquarters on election day. But be careful, you might get run over in the process. Such was the case today at Barack Obama's main campaign office in Portland. People were working the phones; and people were coming in for lists to be used canvassing the neighborhoods. Despite a big lead in most polls, Obama's communications director told me there was no time to talk with me. "It's election day, and every vote counts!"

While driving through a nearby neighborhood, I found a volunteer doing a door-to-door canvass; and she is not even from Oregon. Sara Eckhouse is here from Iowa, helping out. She has been away in Europe most of the year, and so this is the first chance for her to work directly on the Obama campaign. "Well, I've been out of the country. Oregon was the place to go!" she told me. As for why she chose Obama from the originally crowded field of Democrats? "I like that he brings people together," she said. "I like that he is really intelligent and not a divisive figure." She adds, "He's something the country needs right now, because we are so divided and polarized."

Across town at Hillary Clinton's campaign headquarters, a phone bank was set up; and dozens of people were on the lines in a last-minute effort to get out the vote. While most polls have had Sen. Clinton down by 12 to 18 points, a more recent poll put the margin at 4 points. So the political troops were in high gear, dialing for votes. "We always knew it was going to be an uphill fight," said communications aide Frank Rothman. "We're just working as hard as we can."

A sign says the phone banks will be open Wednesday, even though Oregon's primary will be over. The volunteers will be calling voters in Montana and South Dakota, which hold the final two primaries on June 3. "We have the (telephone) infrastructure," says Rothman, "so we're going to use it."

I will be at Obama headquarters for the anticipated victory rally tonight. And I will be "live" with Ross McGowan on KTVU's "Mornings on Two" Wednesday morning at 7:45.

Updates are coming, at www.MarkCurtisMedia.com

Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food.

Mark Curtis in Oregon, KTVU

2008-05-20T09:48:00.001-07:00

Rainy Oregon Primary Underway; Turnout Big!

2008-05-20T09:20:00.001-07:00

(Portland, Oregon)

Newsflash! I'm in Portland, and it's raining! OK, so it's not a 7.9 earthquake. I know.... It rains all the time here, so why should my first visit be any different?

I usually start an election day blog by saying something like, "Polls open at 7 a.m."; but things here in Oregon are very different. People have been voting for weeks. Oregon has the only 100 percent mail-in elections in the nation, though the trend is likely to spread. Neighboring Washington State plans to do the same. By 8 a.m., 40 percent of Oregonians had already cast their ballots, according to the Secretary of State. He believes that, when all is said and done, 60 percent of state voters will cast ballots by 8 p.m.; and that would be a record.

This is fascinating, because it's not really just "mail-in" voting. It's more like "drive-through" voting. People pull up to metal boxes along certain streets and slide their ballots into the election box, just as they would with mail. There is even a voting "box" at a McDonald's drive-through. But turnout is greater, as is efficiency, so expect more states to join this trend.

There are very few traditional polling places left in Oregon. The only one I found was actually at the Multnomah County Elections office in Portland, where people could drop in to vote. We should note: This is not just the contest between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton for the Democratic presidential nomination. Thirteen people are vying for Mayor of Portland, and there is a flurry of candidates running for State and Congressional offices. Election fever, as it were!

Confession time: I showed up in one of the world's rainiest cities with no raincoat and no umbrella. But, thanks to the kindness of convenience store clerk Jagdish Singh, I stayed relatively dry. Singh lent me her umbrella to use during my broadcast to KTVU. She's an interesting woman. She holds both U.S. and Canadian citizenship, but chose not to vote in this election. "I just feel guilty if I choose the wrong person," Singh said. "I don't like the three of them anyway. They are not too strong for running for the President." Singh was born in India, but came to the U.S. twenty-five years ago.

And it was kind of like "old home" week here. I was assisted in my broadcast by Mark Glyzewski, a reporter from KPTV-Fox 12 in Portland. It turns out both Mark and I grew up in Waukesha County, Wisconsin. Small world!

Watch for updates throughout the day. I will be "live" at 7:45 Wednesday morning with Ross McGowan on KTVU's "Mornings on Two." We'll have a complete wrap-up of the Oregon and Kentucky primaries.

Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food.

Proud (TennesseeGOP Add)

2008-05-19T16:34:00.001-07:00

When Is Political Spouse Fair Game?

2008-05-19T09:27:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

"For the first time in my adult life, I am really proud of my country!" -- Michelle Obama, February 2008.

It is the quote heard 'round the world, and now it is the subject of a YouTube.com video produced by the Tennessee Republican Party. In the new video, the clip is interspersed with other Americans talking about when they were proud of their country. (You can see the whole thing by logging onto www.YouTube.com.)

Clearly this ad is an attack on Obama's wife, who is clearly not the candidate. Today Obama lashed back at the GOP, saying "Lay off of my wife!" On Saturday, I wrote about how Sen. Obama needs a "thicker skin," because I think he is overly sensitive to criticism aimed at him on issues which are fair political game. But I, too, differ when it comes to political spouses and think the attacks on Michelle Obama are out of bounds. I mean - seriously - how will the Democrats respond? Perhaps by running an attack ad on Cindy McCain and her addiction to pain killers? They could, and it would be tasteless!

Here is my rule of thumb: If the spouse or other family member is advocating for a policy put forth by the candidate, they are fair game. For example, in 1992 it was quite clear that Hillary Clinton was going to lead the legislative efforts toward health care reform. She was in charge of the issue, which was well beyond the traditional role of first lady. Fair game for attacks? Absolutely, as she was advocating policy that could directly affect taxpayers. Hillary Clinton, as a private lawyer, was also involved in some controversial land deals in Arkansas while her husband was Governor. Fair game? Yes, given all the investigations.

Was Chelsea Clinton fair game when her dad was running and she was just 12 years old? No! Today at 28, Chelsea is out stumping for her mom, pushing her issues. Is Chelsea now fair game? Certainly she is, in so far as it relates to the campaign issues. If it's a personal matter, such as whom she is dating, then leave her alone.

Let me be clear. The comments Michele Obama made are fair game for news articles, editorials and kitchen table debates. She upset a lot of people, despite later trying to clarify the remarks. What I disagree with is actually using her speech in an attack ad. If Barack Obama had made these statements, then by all means it would have been fair to attack him. He's the candidate. She is not! Let the ads be about the candidates and the issues!

To be honest, most people disagree with me. A poll conducted today by AOL says 62 percent of respondents believe the video critical of Michelle Obama is fair; and the same poll says 70 percent of Americans feel political spouses are always fair game. So, I am in the minority. What is your view? There is a comments section at the end of each blog, and I encourage you to write your thoughts!

I will be in Portland in a few hours to cover the Oregon primary. Check back for updates at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food.

Watch for Two Blowouts on Tuesday!

2008-05-18T10:33:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

The Democratic primary season has been more like a boxing match; and, with that in mind, I am predicting another dramatic split decision in the Tuesday primaries. Hillary Clinton should win big in Kentucky (after her 41 point win in neighboring West Virginia last week). Barack Obama should win Oregon going away. All told, there are 102 delegates at stake.

Here are the latest composite polls from Real Clear Politics:

Kentucky:

Clinton: 59 %

Obama: 30 %

Undecided: 11 %

Oregon:

Obama: 53 %

Clinton: 39 %

Undecided: 8 %

National & Super Delegate Totals (2,025 needed):

Obama: 1,897

Clinton: 1,717

Some conclusions are already clear: Obama will need fewer than 100 delegates after Tuesday; Hillary Clinton needs a favorable ruling on the fate of the Florida and Michigan delegations, or there is no way she can win.

By Wednesday morning Obama should be at the 1,950 delegate mark, plus or minus a few more Super Delegates swinging his way. This will set the stage for a final showdown on June 3, with the South Dakota and Montana primaries and a total of 31 delegates at stake. We should have a nominee by Wednesday morning, June 4, so I will be in Rapid City,South Dakota, for all of that drama.

In the meantime, I will be in Oregon this week, Monday through Wednesday, covering the latest primaries.

Last Night I had the honor of being "emcee" for the annual "Guns 'n Hoses" charity basketball game to benefit Special Olympics of Northern California. For the second straight year, the Fremont Police Department defeated the Fremont Fire Department. The real winners were all the Special Olympians who benefit. If you want to help go to www.sonc.org.

Check back often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.com.

Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food.

Welcome to "Hardball" Politics!

2008-05-17T13:17:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

An e-mail from a family member inspired today's column. One of her basic points is that every time Barack Obama is criticized, he takes it as a personal attack that is somehow unfair. He did this when former President Bill Clinton called his stance on the Iraq war a "fairy tale." And he did it again Friday when President Bush criticized Obama's plans to speak directly with leaders of Iran, Syria, etc. Some Obama supporters even labeled these attacks as racist. Why, I am not sure. People are criticizing Obama because they feel his position is wrong, not because he's black!

Welcome to "hardball" politics, Senator Obama; and you'd better get used to it. The road to the White House is a marathon, not a sprint. It is a gauntlet, not a cake walk. Whether you like Chris Matthews of MSNBC or not, he wrote a seminal book on American politics entitled "Hardball!" It is a must read for any political junkie, and - quite honestly - should be required reading for every college level Political Science 101 course in America.

Matthews's premise is that politics is a "full contact sport." This is NFL football with hard hits, not tennis with easy lobs. Politics is combative and bruising. It is not for the faint of heart. I may not vote for Sen. Hillary Clinton this year (or ever), but I admire her fight and combativeness. The lady may end up losing, but no one can ever call her a quitter. And for that reason alone, she's not really a loser. I like her tenacity, especially against all odds. She's trying to be Eli Manning of the New York Giants in the 4th quarter of the Super Bowl. He won; she may not. But that's not the point. It's how you fight the battle that matters.

And that brings me to Senator Obama and his need to develop a thick skin.

"Hardball" lesson #1: People are going to criticize you for the controversial people with whom you associate. Ronald Reagan was pummeled from the left by people who thought he was too cozy with the Rev. Jerry Falwell and the Rev. Pat Robertson. Your friends, supporters, associates, and, yes, pastors are fair game in American politics. So, your relationship with the Rev. Jeremiah Wright is fair game! Whether it matters is up to voters. That the Obama campaign never recognized this "powder keg" was just naive.

"Hardball" lesson #2: Political attacks should be viewed as professional attacks, not personal. It has been a long standing platform of American foreign policy that we don't talk directly with our enemies, particularly people labeled "state sponsors of terrorism." This has been true for Republican administrations, as well as Democrats. Senator Obama wants to change this policy, which he certainly would be welcome to do as President. That would become his prerogative. You win the election; you set the policy. No question. But, if you put forth the controversial idea during the campaign, then you have to be willing to take the heat. President Bush and Sen. John McCain have both referred to the policy as "appeasement." That's their right to say, and if certain members of the voting public are upset, then so be it. The foreign policy issue is "fair game" in the world of hardball politics, and history can be a harsh judge. Gerald Ford may have cost himself reelection in 1976, when he stated, during one of his debates with Jimmy Carter, that the Soviet Union was not really dominating Eastern Europe. He never recovered.

With all due respect, these candidates are running for the most powerful and important job on the planet. They are not running for president of the local Little League. Senator Obama got an easy ride into the U.S. Senate when his Republican opponent was caught in a sex scandal. The road to the White House is NOT a free ride! Perhaps Chris Matthews should mail Obama a copy of "Hardball!"

I will be in Oregon Monday through Wednesday, covering the Tuesday primary. Voters also go the polls in Kentucky. Check back often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food.

Political Humor a Plus This Year

2008-05-16T09:19:00.000-07:00

(Danville, California)

No serious politics today. It's my 49th birthday, and I would rather have fun than talk political issues. Yes, the big California Supreme Court gay rights decision will have political fallout and could certainly have an impact on the presidential race. But we'll talk about that another day.

The number of jokes on the political landscape seems way up this year. Comedians are having a field day with all the candidates and the current office holder. The ironic part is the number of funny statements that come from the candidates' own mouths. These are all direct quotes. You can't make this stuff up!

At a campaign rally, Sen. Hillary Clinton said: "We have a lot of kids who don't know what work means. They think work is a four-letter word!"

About his meteoric rise to the top of American politics after being a little known politician, Sen. Barack Obama said: "It's been a great ride. But I know how quickly these fads can pass. You all remember the pet rock, the mood ring, Howard Dean!"

Sen. John McCain always faces questions about his age and physical fitness for office. As far as we all know, at age 71, he's just fine. McCain has made jokes, light hearted and not mean spirited, about afflictions facing people his age: "The nice thing about Alzheimer's is you get to hide your own Easter eggs!"

Perhaps the king of the twisted phrase or unintended meaning is President George W. Bush, who once said: "Our enemies are innovative and resourceful, and so are we. They never stop thinking about new ways to harm our country and our people, and neither do we!"

Anyway, have a wonderful weekend and don't take all of politics so seriously. Laughter is the best medicine!

I will be in Portland, Oregon beginning Monday for the Oregon primary! As always, check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com.

Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food.

Edwards Endorsement a Big Deal?

2008-05-15T08:46:00.001-07:00

(Danville, California)

I'm back in California today; and, as always, I am surprised at what made news while I was on the airplane. When told to shut down his electronic devices, a news junkie is cut off from the world. Case in point: Sometime from when I left Dulles International Airport to when I arrived in San Francisco, John Edwards endorsed Barack Obama.

It's a big deal more from the standpoint of delegate math than it is from whatever political weight John Edwards carries. (Very little, actually!) Edwards's campaign fell flat this year, and he could not even carry his home state of North Carolina when he ran for Vice-President in 2004.

But the endorsement will, theoretically, add 19 Edwards delegates to Obama's overall total and probably prompt many more uncommitted "Super Delegates" to move towards the Obama camp. It won't be enough to put Obama over the magic number of 2,025, but it will give a lot of political momentum in that direction.

One thing this should not do, is secure John Edwards's place on the Democratic ticket as VP. Been there; done that! And it failed! Also, Edwards only served one term before he quit the Senate. Obama is only in his first term, as well. Inexperience plus inexperience does not equal experience! Also, Edwards is not very popular in the Deep South, which is where Obama needs to win at least one state.

The bottom line: John Edwards's endorsement means a lot in terms of adding delegates to the Obama total, but it does nothing to help the Illinois Senator to win the White House in November.

I will be writing daily about the latest campaign developments. Monday I arrive in Portland for three days of coverage of the Oregon primary!

Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food.

Clinton Swamps Obama; Mark Curtis

2008-05-14T10:28:00.001-07:00