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Romney Concedes, Speeches Begin

Update: 11:32 pm: The motorcade has pulled up. It is the largest ever for the President. Obama takes the stage to thunderous applause. Snippets below:

We know in our hearts that for the United States of America, the best is yet to come.

Thanks to every American who participated in the election. Those who waited in line to vote, we have to fix that.

Whether you held an Obama sign or a Romney sign, you made your voice heard. [More...]

Praises Romney and family. He offers to talk to Romney and see where we can work together. Thanks America's happy warrior, Joe Biden. "Michelle, I have never loved you more." So proud to see America fall in love with her too. Sasha and Malia, growing up before our very eyes. So proud of "you guys" but for now, one dog is enough. "To the best campaign team in the history of politics, the best, the best ever." (He got that right.) Very emotional, in a good way.

Democracy is messy. That won't change after tonight. These arguments we have are a mark of our liberty. In other countries, people fight for a chance to argue and cast their ballots like we did today. Despite our differences, most of us share certain hopes for our future.

We believe in a tolerant America, for the child of an immigrant growing up in this country. That's where we need to go.

We will disagree about how to get there, sometimes fiercely.

Whether I earned your vote I have listened to you. You have made me a better President. I return more inspired than ever about the work that lies ahead.

Tonight you voted for actions, not politics as usual. In the coming weeks and months, I am looking forward to reaching out and meeting with the leaders of both parties. We have more work to do.

But your work is not done. Citizenship does not end with voting. It's about what we do together. Love, Charity, Work, Patriotism: That's what makes America great.

We are not as divided as the pundits would have us believe. Very fiery ending, just great.

Speech ends, family and confetti and Joe Biden join him. Speakers blare Bruce Springsteen's "We Take Care of Our Own."

My takeaway: I'm elated. We dodged such a huge bullet tonight. I hope it's never that close again. We need to appreciate what we have when we have it, and not wait until it's almost gone. Congratulations to President Obama, and most of all, to us.

Update 11:16 pm: Obama's turn to speak. CNN needs to get rid of its pundits. Not one had anything valuable to contribute. It's torture listening to them while waiting for Obama to arrive.



Larger version here.

*****

Mitt Romney has conceded. He is about to make a speech. President Obama will then make his speech.

Romney: He wishes Obama success in guiding our nation. Paul Ryan is the best choice he's ever made. Ann would have been a wonderful first lady.

He believes in America and the people of America. He's concerned about America. He and Paul have given their all to the campaign. He wishes he had been able to lead the country, but the voters chose otherwise. He prays for America.

President Obama is up next. Earlier, C-Span played his 2008 election night speech. It will be interesting to see the differences.

< It's Official: Obama Wins | Inmate Voting >
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  • Display: Sort:
    I feel shell shocked (5.00 / 1) (#1)
    by lilburro on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:01:15 AM EST
    thank god this is happening.  Old Romney could've had a role in an Obama Administration.  This guy will just scheme for his greater good.  Eff that.

    Sent a message on FB, diplomat that I am, that I know Republicans (that I know anyway) are better than their pols.  How is it that people sympathize with their economic stances and yet they can't win?  Because they offend everyone so deeply.  The Republicans I know aren't like that (or they wouldn't be friends with me).  They have to demand more, or go D.  That's it.

    Romney didn't even offer (none / 0) (#3)
    by Jeralyn on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:04:18 AM EST
    to work with Obama or his Administration.

    Parent
    He prays for America (5.00 / 2) (#2)
    by shoephone on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:03:39 AM EST
    Go away car elevator man!

    A great night! (5.00 / 1) (#4)
    by Jackson Hunter on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:16:48 AM EST
    I'm not Obama's biggest fan by any means, but he got my absentee vote and I really hope his more ardent supporters are right and he turns more leftward now, after all he can't lose votes now. The real test is how he has his DEA (and it is his) handle the new legalization laws in CO and WA, I hope he does the right thing and leaves them be, after all in WA state it won 55.5% to 44.5%, now THAT is a mandate.

    The Party won big tonight, so I hope it tries big, bold things. Legalization lost several times before it has finally won, so there is a lesson to be learned from that. I love it here in China, but I wish I was there to celebrate.

    Jackson

    Big Win? (1.00 / 3) (#19)
    by nomatter0nevermind on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 05:02:48 AM EST
    The Party won big tonight

    The Democrats had a net loss of seats in both houses of Congress, and Obama will at best have a bare majority of the popular vote.

    Parent

    Bad information - the Dems pick up seats in (5.00 / 3) (#20)
    by MO Blue on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 05:40:08 AM EST
    both houses of Congress.

    Democrats strengthened their hold on the Senate and may have picked up 7 additional seats in the House.

    Democrats now hold a 53 to 47 majority, including two independents who generally vote with them. On Tuesday, they held their majority, picking up Republican-held seats in Indiana and Massachusetts while Republicans snatched a lone Democratic seat in Nebraska.
    ...
    With almost 90 percent of the 435 House races called by The Associated Press, Republicans had won 227 seats and were leading in nine more. For a majority in the chamber, a party must control 218 seats. Democrats had won 178 seats and were leading in 19 others.

    There is an abundance of election data available. You might want to take the time to educate yourself on the actual results prior to making any additional comments on the subject.

    Parent

    Math is hard! (5.00 / 6) (#63)
    by MileHi Hawkeye on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 09:18:33 AM EST
    and inconvenient too, I guess.

    Parent
    My Bad (none / 0) (#96)
    by nomatter0nevermind on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 02:31:53 PM EST
    Math is hard!

    and inconvenient too, I guess.

    What can I say? Up all night. I could swear I heard folks on two different networks say the Republicans had a net gain in the House.

    On the Senate, I forgot to count the independents, plus overlooking that some races were still undecided.

    Googling around, it looks like the Democrats have a net gain of two Senate seats, and will probably gain a few seats in the House when they've all been settled.

    The Senate alone could be called a big win for the Dems, given the number of seats they were defending. But in the House the Republicans mostly kept their 2010 gains. I still wouldn't call it a big win for the Dems overall.


    Parent

    Second biggest winner: Nate Silver. (5.00 / 1) (#5)
    by oculus on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:20:39 AM EST
    So saith DK radio. Take that Jonah Goldberg.

    Nate's only blunder (none / 0) (#6)
    by CoralGables on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:29:54 AM EST
    was his morning switch of Florida from 52-48 Obama to a 50/50 tossup. His number turned out perfect but he loses a state because of it. I think he can only claim 49 again. It will likely make him millions though, so I'm sure he can live with 49 again.

    Parent
    As I read the paper this morning (5.00 / 2) (#24)
    by ruffian on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 06:03:40 AM EST
    FL is 49.9/49.9 .  I think Nate considers that a win for his model.

    Parent
    After sleeping on it (5.00 / 1) (#37)
    by CoralGables on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:44:52 AM EST
    I'd say he's either 99/100 or 98/99 over two elections. Pretty damn impressive.

    As for the social research methods of polling, they were also a winner last night. Although while obviously not perfect, the state by state poll of polls (aggregators) proved that math still wins the day and the pundits and/or naysayers that base their thoughts on a feeling in their gut haven't got a clue.

    Parent

    according to local (5.00 / 1) (#80)
    by Amiss on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:12:02 PM EST
    Florida news, it was the Puerto Ricans of Latin American descent across the I-4 corridor (mainly around Orlando) that gave Obama the boost he needed down here.
    I was so proud of them. I know it wasn't easy. Not one vote cast for Obama in Florida came easy, not one.
    Lets not let this faith in the Democrats go, lets cherish it and build on it, for their sakes, at the very least they deserve that,  we all do.

    Parent
    Here's what I would tell (none / 0) (#83)
    by CoralGables on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:45:26 PM EST
    that local news...

    Find me a county in the I-4 corridor that went stronger for Obama in 2012 than in 2008.

    They tell a great story but it isn't true. There was only one county in Florida that upped their game big in 2012.

    While nearly every county in the state lost Obama votes in 2012, the Miami-Dade County Obama win was by 64,687 more votes than it was in 2008. As it stands now the total Florida win is by about 47,500 votes. Miami voters withstood the long lines (some still in line to vote after Hawaii was called last night) and won the state of Florida.

    Parent

    4 more years TL'ers!! Thanks Jeralyn, BTD (5.00 / 1) (#8)
    by ruffian on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 01:07:35 AM EST
    and everyone. Could not have made it through without you!

    Thanks for choosing us to spend (none / 0) (#11)
    by Jeralyn on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 01:26:44 AM EST
    the evening with me and TalkLeft. Readers and commenters are what make this hobby worthwhile!

    Parent
    No kidding! (none / 0) (#12)
    by lilburro on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 01:33:51 AM EST
    Best to all!

    Parent
    Wait a minute (5.00 / 2) (#13)
    by kmblue on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 01:48:38 AM EST
    Is it possible Obama didn't mention Bill Clinton?

    the man who beat his brains out on the campaign trail for Obama?  The man who made the best speech by far at the Dem Convention?  Somebody tell me I'm wrong, cuz I might have missed it.  Go Hillary in 2016!

    Well, I just read that as soon as (5.00 / 1) (#15)
    by Teresa on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 02:02:17 AM EST
    Romney conceded, his first call was to Bill Clinton. I thought he'd mention him, too, though.

    Parent
    He should have mentioned Clinton (5.00 / 3) (#16)
    by kmblue on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 02:06:23 AM EST
    in his victory speech.  The phone call was private, the speech was not. Jeebus.

    Parent
    his first call (none / 0) (#81)
    by Amiss on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:15:25 PM EST
    after receiving Romney's was to Clinton, it was reported last nite.

    Parent
    i am happy (5.00 / 6) (#14)
    by The Addams Family on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 01:57:33 AM EST
    about the Democratic senate, & particularly about the election of Elizabeth Warren

    i am pleased that our first black president has won a second term - his family looks lovely & i am glad they will be living in the White House for four more years

    if all the good people who are cheering the president's victory speech feel inspired & full of hope & can turn that to good purpose, it will be a fine thing

    & i want to be ecstatic that a Democratic president has been re-elected -- only the second since FDR! -- with a commanding majority of the electoral vote & with a credible margin of the popular vote

    i would not have wanted the agencies of the executive branch in the hands of the GOP

    but i think Barack Obama is the most Nixonian political figure since Richard Nixon himself, & as i watch the lapdog press & the putative left give Obama a pass on some of the same actions & policies that brought howls of outrage down on his predecessor, & as i listen to Obama's beautiful canned words tonight, i can't remember a time when i felt more alienated or more apprehensive about the future

    Sorry you feel that way (5.00 / 2) (#17)
    by Jeralyn on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 03:15:55 AM EST
    and I believe and hope you are in the minority. I feel very inspired and grateful tonight, and see nothing in Obama that remotely resembles Nixon. On social policies, he also has little in common with Bush. Many of the things he wanted to do were blocked by Republicans in Congress -- no progressive could have accomplished them, including closing Guantanamo or passing immigration reform.

    He's not perfect, and there's plenty of issues I wish he pushed harder on for progressives, but I don't see how you can question his integrity or call his remarks "canned."

    Parent

    thanks for your response, Jeralyn (5.00 / 2) (#18)
    by The Addams Family on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 04:05:25 AM EST
    i don't begrudge your happiness, & no doubt i am in the minority

    Parent
    A minority maybe (5.00 / 6) (#21)
    by MO Blue on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 05:41:41 AM EST
    but definitely not alone.

    Parent
    Nothing wrong with being in a minority (5.00 / 2) (#22)
    by Mr Natural on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 05:52:33 AM EST
    The better liar won.  The lesser of two evils is still evil.  I've no idea why anyone wastes their time drooling over the president's predictable rhetoric.

    But he did promise that the next four years would be better.  I'm hoping that part of that better is that Obama automates his targeted assassination system  It's time to remove the human element from the planning and execution of our national lettres de cachet.


    "We may have our private opinions but why should they be a bar to the meeting of hearts?"
    - Ghandi

    Parent
    One unfortunate (5.00 / 4) (#29)
    by lentinel on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:07:43 AM EST
    comparison is Ford pardoning Nixon, and Obama making a definitive and successful effort to immunize Bush and Cheney from prosecution.

    Most respectfully, I disagree with your view that, "no progressive could have accomplished" some of the measures that Obama abandoned.

    I think a true progressive could have kept the public option intact. Would not have made "the deal". Would not have folks like Geithner on the payroll, or Gates... Would not be incarcerating whisleblowers instead of the torturers...Would not have an attorney general busting pot clinics... would have ended the war in Afghanistan years ago... would not have taken four years to "evolve" on the issue of human rights regarding homosexuals.

    And considering that Obama was first elected at least in part on his great oratorical skills - compared at the time to Lincoln - he certainly never used them to aggressively promote a progressive cause.

    I am happy about the results of this election mostly because of how much I know it meant to you, Jeralyn, and many other people posting here.

    Parent

    One of Obama's greatest efforts was (5.00 / 4) (#30)
    by MO Blue on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:19:30 AM EST
    in fact blocked by the Republicans. Without Republican obstruction, Obama would have been able to implement his Grand Bargain that granted Boehner much of what he asked for in cuts to the safety net and domestic programs as well as substantial corporate tax cuts . IMO no progressive would have tenaciously tried to accomplish these changes.

    Parent
    lol. (none / 0) (#43)
    by Mr Natural on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:09:35 AM EST
    I feel (5.00 / 6) (#25)
    by Ga6thDem on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 06:25:01 AM EST
    the same way. Half a yay. It's not like Obama's record has been that great the last four years. I still don't expect him to grow a pair and I expect more of the constant caving to the GOP. Four years ago I hoped I was wrong and I wasn't. Again, I hope I am wrong.

    To me the exciting thing was the senate and a lot of the elections outside of the presidential election.

    Parent

    My initial reaction is one of relief, (5.00 / 3) (#27)
    by Anne on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 06:51:32 AM EST
    that the country has been spared the likes of Mitt Romney in the WH and all that that means, but it's tempered by the knowledge that Barack Obama isn't changing who he is.  Since he's the one behind the drone policy, we know that's not changing.  Since he's the one behind the kill list, we know that's not going to go away.  Since he's the one behind Bowles/Simson, and he's the one who's been fighting for a Grand Bargain, we know that's a fight that's going to go on.  It's his DEA that's been foaming at the mouth for four years over medical marijuana - that's not going to change.

    I'll say this: if there's an announcement that Geithner is stepping down and Obama's nominating Erskine Bowles to replace him, that will be as clear an indication as any that Obama is not going to be someone for the next four years that he hasn't been for the this last four years.

    All of this - and more - is the asterisk I'm attaching to my relief - and it sounds like you're doing the same thing.

    Obama does inspire, no question, but it's not that hard to speak in grand generalities about America and democracy and moving forward; what's hard is using those emotions and inspiration to accomplish the things the people who support him want - and wanted this time four years ago.

    I'm happy to see some real progressives being elected to the Congress, and I hope this means more of a push there for the things we thought we were going to get, or get closer to, these last four years.

    I'm happier still to see such a repudiation of the Tea Party and the crazies in the GOP who thought they were going to take over; the message there is that if they are the future of the GOP, the GOP has no future.  It will be interesting to see what develops there - and if there's disarray within the GOP, I hope Dems can take advantage of it.  We'll see.

    I think the thing I'm happiest about is the end of the ads and the robocalls...!

    Parent

    A question. (5.00 / 1) (#31)
    by lentinel on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:20:00 AM EST
    Obama does inspire, no question...

    I do question that.

    Whom does he inspire?

    The "inspiration" in this election, the motivation for liberals to vote, seemed to me to be the "Romney is worse" factor. I really didn't see the merest glimmer of inspiration from the electorate. Fear, yes. And now, relief.

    But inspiration, no.
    Obama has not earned that imo.


    Parent

    Well, here are the (5.00 / 3) (#48)
    by Anne on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:25:33 AM EST
    dictionary definitions of "inspire:"

    1. To affect, guide, or arouse by divine influence.
    1. To fill with enlivening or exalting emotion: hymns that inspire the congregation; an artist who was inspired by Impressionism.
    2. a. To stimulate to action; motivate: a sales force that was inspired by the prospect of a bonus.
        b. To affect or touch: The falling leaves inspired her with sadness.
    1. To draw forth; elicit or arouse: a teacher who inspired admiration and respect.
    2. To be the cause or source of; bring about: an invention that inspired many imitations.
    3. To draw in (air) by inhaling.
    4. Archaic
    a. To breathe on.
    b. To breathe life into.

    Obama may not inspire you.  His words may not affect you.  But I don't think you can deny that he does inspire a lot of people.  His words do affect a lot of people.  

    You and I may be immune to it, as we see that his lofty words don't always translate to equally lofty actions.  Too often, what he says is not what he does, so we take what he says with a fairly large grain of salt, maybe more like a handful.

    But he does affect people.  And if those people are inspired to vote, to volunteer, to be more involved in government, to be informed, to do positive things in service to some greater good, all the better.

    He may even inspire people in the opposite direction; people may listen to him and resolve to work harder to defeat what they think he stands for.  Inspiration can take many forms and lead people in many directions.

    I think you might want to be a little grumpy this morning; that's fine - I think we all kind of get that.  There's nothing wrong with hanging on to your skepticism or your reservations - I've got plenty of it/them myself, as you know.  But let's not get to the point where we can't acknowledge that Romney failing to gain control of the WH is a good thing - it is.  

    But that doesn't mean Obama's off the hook - he's not.  If anything, I think he will be held accountable in ways he wasn't in his first term.  And maybe we can make that work for us, instead of against us for a change.


    Parent

    Anne. (5.00 / 1) (#69)
    by lentinel on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 10:44:12 AM EST
    For me, none of those definitions of "inspire" apply to me.

    The closest might be, "affect". But he has only affected me negatively. I have yet to feel anything akin to divine influence from the man. Or feeling filled with exiting emotion. He has only motivated me to air my feelings on this website and in discussions with friends. He has also motivated me to try to do the best I can to protect my family from an uncertain future.

    I can't think of a single issue on which he has deigned to offer an opinion that didn't leave me feeling empty - and sometimes angry.

    Being content that we won't have Romney to contend with does not equate for me with being happy about what we might face with another four years of the incumbent.

    As for how he may have inspired others - in any of the definitions you offered - I can have no opinion. I must say that in watching tv, his representatives, supporters, or even people commenting here, I have yet to see someone who seems inspired or empassioned by Obama. They mostly talk about what they see as the dreadful alternatives. That's where I see the passion. That is not the same as far as I am concerned. Even BTD, who proclaimed Obama to be a "rock star" in 2008 has moderated his pronouncements noticeably. At least in my opinion.

    I believe that you said you were relieved that you could vote for Jill Stein since your State was safe for Obama and immune from a Romney victory. That is not the same as saying that you have been inspired by Obama. Have you been inspired by him - in any of the ways you cite?

    I have read your posts for quite awhile, and have been grateful for them. You have mentioned being appalled by many if not most of the things that have appalled me during the first term.

    The difference we seem to have is that you want to give him credit for being an inspirational figure - at least for some people. And I cannot. I am filled with apprehension about our future - and sometimes for our very lives. Maybe, as you say, I'm grumpy. But it is not something I like to be. I just know how I feel about something. And regarding Obama's actions as president, the way that I feel will not be cured by a cup of java, a shot of whisky, or a dry martini.  Would that it were so.

    Parent

    No, I am not inspired by Obama, (5.00 / 1) (#75)
    by Anne on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 11:24:00 AM EST
    not now, not really ever.  To some extent he knows what to say to convince people he's on their side, that he wants the same things they do, but his actions have spoken quite another language, I think.  There are those who would say that's just a pol being a pol, that they're all that way.  So, why do the words of Elizabeth Warren, for example,  inspire me where Obama's words do not?  Because I feel like there's something at Warren's core that I see in pretty much everything she's ever done, and that thing is not just ambition - I don't feel like she sought the Senate seat for its own sake, or for how it will help advance her up the political ladder, but because of what she wants to do for people from that position.   I don't see ambition as the force that drives her and I think that makes a huge difference.  I hope the Senate doesn't change her too much, you know?

    I do think this was an election about defeating something and someone more than anything else - and I think that was true on both sides of the aisle; that doesn't say much for either side, does it?  

    I guess that's why my overall feeling was one of relief, with an asterisk.  I'm glad Romney lost, and I'm glad we got more progressive voices elected to the Congress.  The asterisk, as I said earlier, is for the truth that Obama's not going to be someone else now - the best we can hope for is that he doesn't see winning over Republicans by being more like them as his personal Holy Grail; the worst we can expect is that he will make more of a right turn, dig in on the Grand Bargain, put someone like Bowles at Treasury, sic the DEA hard at states that legalized marijuana, double-down on national security issues, drone killings, the secrecy and non-accountability.  Will this more progressive Congress be a bulwark against those kinds of efforts?  I guess we'll find out soon enough.  Glenn Greenwald isn't optimistic - I'm so tired of being disappointed that I'm afraid to let myself feel too much of that optimism.

    I have no expectation that I will be less appalled in Obama's second term than I was in the first; and just like with the first term, I will fervently hope to be proven wrong.  

    There is a lot of work to do in this country, so many people in need, so many ways in which we have let a lot of our freedom slip away or be taken from us - it's enough to make anyone grumpy.

    I won't tell you to cheer up - that would be insulting; all I can think to say is, "hang in there," because really, what choice do we have?  Giving up just doesn't seem like the best option.  Maybe try thinking of positive ways we can all make a difference, and at all times seek some comfort where we can in our everyday lives, in our families and friends.  That sounds a lot like "count your blessings," but it really can help when times seem too dark.


    Parent

    Thanks Anne. (none / 0) (#97)
    by lentinel on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 05:31:09 PM EST
    Your reply did in fact cheer me up.

    Parent
    I do hope Warren doesn't turn out to have (none / 0) (#98)
    by oculus on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 05:34:03 PM EST
    clay feet.  But, it seems inevitable.  

    Parent
    Today's Fun Quiz (3.67 / 3) (#72)
    by CoralGables on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 10:55:41 AM EST
    At the moment, I am convinced America is doomed beyond all hope of redemption, and any talk of the future fills me with dread and horror.

    Where would you be most likely to find this quote this morning:

    A lentinel at TL
    B The American Spectator
    C all of the above

    Parent

    wait (5.00 / 3) (#88)
    by The Addams Family on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 01:12:20 PM EST
    are you saying that lentinel is Robert Stacy McCain?

    that seems unlikely, since McCain has his own platform over at the conservative American Spectator & really doesn't need to comment here at TL

    but is that true? lentinel, are you really Robert Stacy McCain, & did CoralGables really go all the way over there to stalk you?

    maybe what you're saying instead, CG, is that lentinel can only be a reactionary right winger because s/he has "yet to feel anything akin to divine influence" from Obama

    yeah - i think that's what you're saying

    & it's a particularly stupid form of ad hominem argument, but it's completely in keeping with the Obama/Obamaphile penchant for blaming the voters/killing the messenger when a subject of the realm fails to enact the mandatory ObamObeisance

    Parent

    Personally, he does inspire me to (5.00 / 2) (#66)
    by ruffian on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 09:53:10 AM EST
    want the world that he sees, where people are working together in good faith. I just don't think it is as close as he seems to think it is.

    Parent
    Honestly, (none / 0) (#67)
    by lentinel on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 10:18:16 AM EST
    I haven't a clue as to the world he sees.

    I don't know what he sees.

    I have yet to read a statement of a clear vision from him - and if I am to try to determine what his vision is from his actions, it is not one with which I identify.

    But he has inspired you to want a world where people are working together in good faith, that is a good thing.

    I can only speak myself.

    Parent

    Thanks for the entertainment (5.00 / 2) (#82)
    by Farmboy on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:16:32 PM EST
    For months people like BTD have provided you with links to Obama's agenda, how he "sees the world" and the American people's place in it. You won't follow the links, preferring to pose in the spotlight as alone and unsure.

    As a result other folks have provided you with quotes from those links. You won't read.the quotes either, instead continuing to sigh and shake your head in sorrow and confusion.

    But today is the best. You've brought your own cross, a handful of nails, and the message that yesterday's election results were a sign of something sad, like kittens in the rain.

    I wish you tons of luck in your current endeavor; I'm sure you can find someone with a hammer around here to help you out.

    Parent

    But, did you see this re Boehner? (none / 0) (#99)
    by oculus on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 05:35:21 PM EST
    Boehner can't wait (5.00 / 1) (#101)
    by The Addams Family on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:38:56 PM EST
    to find out what Obama will prenegotiate next

    Parent
    The sad thing is ... (none / 0) (#44)
    by Mr Natural on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:11:50 AM EST
    ... that the right will probably convince itself that it's gotta move even further to the right, wherever the heck that is or if it's even possible.

    Parent
    What is even sadder, (5.00 / 4) (#47)
    by MO Blue on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:23:16 AM EST
    is that even with wins like Elizabeth Warren, the Dems who control the agenda will probably convince themselves that they must continue to pass the  Republican agenda items that the Republicans themselves have failed to pass.

    Parent
    I agree ... (2.00 / 2) (#34)
    by Robot Porter on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:37:31 AM EST
    and one area where that Nixonian element may be revealed in the next term is in the Benghazi situation.

    So far most Dems have given him a pass there, seeing it as something being ginned up by the Republicans. But anyone who's looked at that story closely knows there's a cover-up. What are the they covering up? It's not entirely clear. But I think it goes to the darker aspects of this administration's middle east policy.

    The cover-up may hold. Or this could become Obama's Iran-Contra. There certainly are a number of reporters not ready to let this one go yet.

    Parent

    Oh for crying out loud (5.00 / 4) (#38)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:46:34 AM EST
    You won't hear another peep about Benghazi.  The election is over.  I bet the hearings on the 15th are cancelled or scaled back into oblivion.  There's nothing there other than 4 dead Americans who lost their lives doing what all knew was dangerous work.  There is no great conspiracy though, just heroes.

    Parent
    No grand conspiracy ... (2.00 / 1) (#41)
    by Robot Porter on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:04:18 AM EST
    just a garden variety cover-up. As I said, it may hold. But Watergate looked that way too at this time in '72.

    Anyway, there will be plenty of time to talk about this in the years ahead. If the story expands.

    Just consider this my asterisk on Obama's strong victory. It may become something. It may become nothing. We'll see.

    Parent

    What? (5.00 / 1) (#42)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:07:23 AM EST
    What is being covered up?

    Parent
    Exactly. (2.00 / 1) (#46)
    by Robot Porter on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:19:43 AM EST
    But I don't think this is the day to talk about this. There may be days in the future to do that.  We'll see. Today it will just lead to needless rancor.

    Today is a day to honor Obama's victory. And talk about ways it can be used to further the Left Wing causes we care about.

    Parent

    Witch hunting (5.00 / 1) (#53)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:40:38 AM EST
    Nothing more, nothing noble, nothing honorable there

    Parent
    San Diego UT announces Benghazi is a (none / 0) (#100)
    by oculus on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 05:36:05 PM EST
    key issue!

    Parent
    That just about settles the matter (none / 0) (#102)
    by CoralGables on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:48:05 PM EST
    that the uproar was little more than faux pre-election outrage and we're likely not to hear it brought up again.

    Parent
    I am (5.00 / 4) (#26)
    by lentinel on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 06:45:47 AM EST
    glad that this election is finally over.

    I am most happy about the elections of Grayson and Warren.

    But I am supremely happy that I can now comment, for example, on the fact that there are still thousands of people in the poorest sections of New York who are without the basic services of heat and electricity, whose buildings are in shambles, who have no place to go - that I can point this out without being accused of wanting Obama to fail, of being an Obama hater, or being told that Romney is worse.

    then you'll be really happy (none / 0) (#84)
    by The Addams Family on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:56:37 PM EST
    Matthews apologizing big-time on his show last (none / 0) (#106)
    by DFLer on Thu Nov 08, 2012 at 07:56:27 AM EST
    night for that remark

    Parent
    The Big Dog is happy this morning! (5.00 / 1) (#28)
    by Robot Porter on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 06:54:39 AM EST
    Maybe even happier than Obama.  Because he clearly was a huge part of the this win.  And he doesn't have to govern.

    Bet he's already talking Hillary's ears off about a '16 strategy.  Not sure she's so keen.  Yet.

    I'd like a Hillary/Elizabeth Warren ticket in 2016 (5.00 / 2) (#32)
    by Dr Molly on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:20:28 AM EST
    It's time for a double female team in the White House.

    Parent
    I'm thinking (5.00 / 2) (#35)
    by Ga6thDem on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:41:59 AM EST
    Hillary and the mayor of San Antonio!

    Parent
    This is a clever idea! (none / 0) (#54)
    by Robot Porter on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:40:59 AM EST
    It really could work.

    Parent
    I would prefer Warren, (5.00 / 3) (#40)
    by MO Blue on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:48:16 AM EST
    the more liberal of the two, at the top of the ticket.

    Parent
    The label, liberal, has lost all meaning... (5.00 / 1) (#45)
    by Mr Natural on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:15:32 AM EST
    ... What's important to me is that Warren led the investigation into the banking fiasco, when few others proffered anything but cheap and empty rhetoric.

    Parent
    Has not lost it's meaning (5.00 / 1) (#52)
    by Rojas on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:38:59 AM EST
    But very often misapplied by Rush and the DLC era Dems.

    I thin Warren is the real deal, but we'll have to see how she holds up now that she has to govern from the belly of the beast. The east coast likes it's financial cartels.


    Parent

    I'm thinking (5.00 / 2) (#50)
    by Ga6thDem on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:33:33 AM EST
    that she would need more time in the senate before running. Obama ran after only four years and that did not turn out all that well policy wise.

    Parent
    Apples to oranges comparison IMO (5.00 / 2) (#55)
    by MO Blue on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:43:16 AM EST
    IMO it was Obama's ideology rather than his time in the Senate that has driven his policy decisions. Obama never was going to even try to implement anything other than corporate policies.

    Simplest example: Obama willingly put Social Security on the table early in the primary season. Warren vows not to ever vote for cuts to the program.

    Parent

    The question we'll never have ... (5.00 / 2) (#61)
    by Robot Porter on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 09:03:42 AM EST
    an answer for:  Would he have won even more handily had he governed more like FDR?  And would he be more popular?

    I think the answer both questions is yes. Especially since his one FDR-ish action (the auto bailout) probably gave him the election.

    But we'll never truly know.

    Parent

    I sincerely hope Hillary chooses to use her (5.00 / 1) (#71)
    by ruffian on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 10:54:15 AM EST
    talents in another way.

    Parent
    I know what you mean ... (none / 0) (#77)
    by Robot Porter on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 11:56:55 AM EST
    but that sounds like an unfortunate euphemism.

    Parent
    I woke up and Allen West is gone (5.00 / 3) (#33)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:27:50 AM EST
    Any other evil purged?

    Allen West (5.00 / 1) (#36)
    by Ga6thDem on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:42:27 AM EST
    is gone? Hallelujah praise the heavens.

    Parent
    Baldwin elected (5.00 / 1) (#39)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 07:48:13 AM EST
    Still have Bachmann and Ryan though.... Bleh

    Parent
    Joe Garcia defeated (5.00 / 3) (#62)
    by KeysDan on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 09:11:32 AM EST
    David Rivera for U.S. Representative of South Florida's 26th District.   Rivera, the friend and former housemate of Marco Rubio, is the ethically-challenged and  much investigated incumbent.  Patrick Murphy, who defeated Allen West, at 29 years of age, will be the youngest member of Congress.

    Parent
    Joe Walsh is demoted (5.00 / 4) (#73)
    by shoephone on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 10:55:58 AM EST
    He's just Regular Ole Deadbeat Dad again.

    Parent
    Oh hell yeah! (none / 0) (#76)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 11:31:17 AM EST
    How we in the Real Left can ... (5.00 / 1) (#49)
    by Robot Porter on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:33:21 AM EST
    claim this as our victory.  Obama governed mostly from the right or center right.

    But one action he took that was traditionally Left Wing (not liberal, Left Wing) was the auto company bail out. It was basically a partial nationalization of these companies. And that's as traditional Left Wing as you get.

    And I think it can be argued very easily that Obama would have lost (or have been in a greater danger of losing) without this action.

    If you want Left to grow in significance and power in the Democratic Party this is a meme worth propagating.

    I have no doubt he would have lost (none / 0) (#90)
    by ruffian on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 01:46:22 PM EST
    without the auto bailout, and the resulting good will in Ohio, Michigan, PA, etc.

    It was the best example of what we all recommended 4 years ago - try a liberal policy, and show that it works as policy, and it will help electorally. If only the stimulus spending had been as adequate, clear-cut and effective.

    Parent

    Saturday Night Live... (5.00 / 3) (#57)
    by Angel on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:52:45 AM EST
    I'd love this week's skit to be Karl Rove's head exploding on live TV.  They could parody his insanity for their numbers desk calling Ohio for Obama.   That would be just too  funny.

    Now I get to read (5.00 / 2) (#60)
    by lilburro on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 09:02:32 AM EST
    the magnanimous updates of people who think they are too good for the whole mess of US elections.  One says that politics aside, it's a good night for equality.  Are you kidding me?  How do you think we got there?  Liberal organizations have poured millions upon millions of dollars into the cause, only one candidate supports it, only one party supports it (on the whole)...how do you think this stuff gets done?  Sometimes I think I go overboard in my liberal advocacy but then I read stuff like that and change my mind.

    My being registered a sense of relief (5.00 / 1) (#68)
    by KeysDan on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 10:37:45 AM EST
    and was engulfed by the emotion of joy upon the re-election of President Obama.   For me, it was not the lesser of two evils or even, six of one and half dozen of the other--it was six of one and 666 of the other.  

    Not just because I found Romney to be devoid of ideas and absent of integrity, but also, because an electoral marriage of Romney/Ryan would bring with it the controlling and freakish Republican in-laws and their scary "spiritual advisors."  

    President Obama's victory speech hit all the right words and tones, but one line (I will work with leaders of both parties) gave a clue to the continuing task of his true supporters--(a) re-enforcement that we view the president as the leader of the Democratic party, (b) rejection of  that 'here we go again' equivalency of everyone is to blame,  Democrats and Republicans, as the definition of bipartisanship.

     It may have been unwise, but it was understandable for some to provide blind support in the first term, the sense of pride in his historic election, the unmitigated mess inherited from Bush, and the determined efforts of Republicans to subvert change.   But, never-the-less, President Obama did make many changes,  but often not without the pressure  of his supporters.  And, these changes were critical to his re-election.  Mindless support  brings no favors.

    Indeed, people like Andrew Sullivan could find no wrongs except for Obama's first debate, and he, essentially, called him toast.  In my view, this was not true loyalty, loyalty would be ongoing constructive criticism and pressure to act on progressive policies.   While Obama's performance in that instance was lackluster, what went, essentially, unnoticed was that rhapsodic charlatan at the other podium.

     But, perhaps that performance will serve as a reminder that President Obama is not always the smartest Democrat in the room and that his critics are not always , in Rahm's words, f++++g ret++ds.  

    2016 (5.00 / 1) (#70)
    by Philly on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 10:53:29 AM EST
    There are many reasons to be pleased Obama won (including my 7 year old's happy dance), but I'm still uneasy and worried about long term trends.  

    How will this country be faring in four years?

    Is ~8 percent unemployment here to stay?  Does it matter?  What will gas prices look like 4 years from now, and how will that affect cost of living?

    Sadly, neither candidate offered a serious plan to reduce the deficit.

    P.S. I'm really happy about the Colorado referendum, and glimmers of a possible end to the costly and unjust "war on drugs."  Time will tell how Obama's justice dept reacts.

    Still feeling mighty comfortable (5.00 / 2) (#79)
    by CoralGables on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:07:10 PM EST
    with this prediction from last Friday...

     I'm thinking (none / 0) (#94)
    by CoralGables on Fri Nov 02, 2012 at 04:38:04 PM EST
    come Tuesday, we'll be looking at:

    332-206



    All I Know... (5.00 / 2) (#87)
    by ScottW714 on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 01:01:30 PM EST
    ...is I was shocked this morning to see that Obama won.  I avoided all new coverage last night because I thought it was going to be a very late night.

    Whew, while not a huge Obama supporter, there are not words to describe the the joy and relief I have today knowing that Mitt Romney will not be President.  I just liked Obama a whole lot more.

    After looking through the votes, hot damn, it's extremely reassuring that even in these economic times, the GOP is slowly slipping into irrelevancy.

    And it's nice to know that they can spin everything, but the one thing that counts, results.

    It is a great day for this liberal.  I feel like we are moving a head and the GOP is standing still.

    I'm really tired this afternoon.... (5.00 / 3) (#89)
    by ruffian on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 01:39:50 PM EST
    And I keep reaching for my phone to check poll results.

    Excellent, thoughtful (none / 0) (#7)
    by oculus on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 01:01:50 AM EST
    speech.

    Very classy and thoughtful. (5.00 / 2) (#9)
    by ruffian on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 01:09:46 AM EST
    Treated us like adults, probably gave us too much credit.

    Worth staying up for.

    Parent

    AND, Obama leads in (none / 0) (#10)
    by oculus on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 01:13:54 AM EST
    no small feat either (none / 0) (#85)
    by Amiss on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:57:20 PM EST
    Us Floridians are such a mixed group of folks. Of all of the voter blocs, the Latina Puerto Ricans saved our butts down here.


    Parent
    Congrats (none / 0) (#23)
    by Jim in St Louis on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 05:54:44 AM EST
    Here is hoping for a great next four years.

    Taylor Marsh (none / 0) (#51)
    by Ga6thDem on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:34:32 AM EST
    has a piece on the meltdown of the GOP on Fox last night. Something some of you might like to read.

    Just read this to Mr. Angel. We both laughed out (none / 0) (#56)
    by Angel on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:45:22 AM EST
    loud.  But Rove is the biggest snake there
    is and he'll still be peddling his snake oil tomorrow.  There is a large segment of our population who just can't breathe without the hatred and invective, it's their oxygen, so I predict Faux Noise will continue on as though nothing has happened.  

    Parent
    Oh, I (5.00 / 1) (#58)
    by Ga6thDem on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:53:05 AM EST
    don't expect anything to actually change at Fox but I'm finding this very helpful in pointing out to my conservative friends how they are being grifted by the likes of Karl Rove, Charles Krauthammer, Dick Morris and Dinesh D'Souza.

    Parent
    They sure seem to like being grifted (5.00 / 1) (#74)
    by ruffian on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 10:57:36 AM EST
    I have a couple of close family members I am tired of arguing with on the subject. Fox is like crack to them. Must stimulate some deep pleasure center. Even if they know it was bad and wanted to quit, I'm not sure they could.

    Parent
    IF they (none / 0) (#91)
    by Ga6thDem on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 02:02:51 PM EST
    like being grifted so be it. My thing is I just want them to realize that they are.

    Parent
    That would be great (none / 0) (#92)
    by ruffian on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 02:14:14 PM EST
    How is it going for you? My addicts are still in denial.

    Parent
    It's (5.00 / 1) (#105)
    by Ga6thDem on Thu Nov 08, 2012 at 06:29:40 AM EST
    just one meltdown after another. I finally told somebody that GOP has ceased being a political party and is now an apocalyptic cult.

    Parent
    But they don't. (none / 0) (#93)
    by Anne on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 02:22:02 PM EST
    And they won't.

    My secretary is in her early 60's, divorced with two grown sons and two grandchildren.  She doesn't vote - ("you don't?  Why not?"  "I don't like it."  "what do you mean, you don't like it?"  "I don't know, I just don't think it matters that much."  Okay then.) - and somehow has bought into 75% of what the GOP is selling.

    Today, she was all about the "death panels" from Obamacare...I said, "there are no death panels."  Oh, but, but, there's that committee of unelected people who are going to be making decisions about what kind of care people can get!  I said, "aside from the fact that that's not what those people are going to do, do you think there isn't a 'panel' of unelected individuals at your health insurance company, deciding what kind of care they're willing to pay for?  And besides, Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan want to privatize Medicare, and they would have used ending Obamacare to help them do it, since that would shorten Medicare's solvency by eight years."

    Well, if I've learned nothing in her years with me, I have at least learned that she is stubborn as all get out, and there would be no changing her mind.

    I wish I knew what it was about people that they continue to support candidates and a party that is not in their best interest; I really just do not get it.  Probably never will.

    Of course, her "support" is one in theory only, because she doesn't "like" voting...

    As an aside, the little tyrant in my office has been deathly quiet.  The only thing I've really heard him say today is "Does anyone have two fives for a ten," (he bet someone else in the office $5 that Romney/Ryan would win Wisconsin), and "it hurts too bad to cry."

    Boo-freakin'-hoo, little man...

    Parent

    It's just too viscerally (none / 0) (#95)
    by jondee on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 02:28:09 PM EST
    delicious for some of these folks to believe "social programs" for the poor caused the financial crisis..

    It's pure primal wolf pack politics..

    From the folks who don't believe in evolution..

     

    Parent

    Having a hard time believing in evolution... (none / 0) (#103)
    by Rojas on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:03:45 PM EST
    I suppose there are those who like being grifted.

    Dick Morris was at the apex of his influence when the Hillbilly Messiah was miming his revelations.

    And the human wreckage is all around...

    Primal, wolf pack politics perhaps, or maybe it's a weird religious thing...
    Nonetheless they stand out as sure enough cocksure and ignorant as any kill a Jew for Jesus thumper I've ever come across.


    Parent

    Just read that Guillani is calling for Obama (none / 0) (#59)
    by Angel on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:59:40 AM EST
    to resign, and they're all on Faux blaming the gasoline shortages on him.  Sometimes I just laugh at the crap they spew, but ya know?, I'm getting damn tired of it, especially after last night's resounding victory for Obama.  But Faux Noise will go on and the ignorant will continue to believe all their lies....

    Parent
    Hillary told Bill (none / 0) (#104)
    by Rojas on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 08:15:56 PM EST
    or perhaps it was the other way around. Hell it could of been a toe lickin' mouse in their pocket...
    Media consolidation is a good thing, just like elimination of the fairness doctrine, reinvent government and democracy with one bold stroke.

    Parent
    that speech was Nov. 3rd (none / 0) (#107)
    by DFLer on Thu Nov 08, 2012 at 08:01:01 AM EST
    here  and here

    Parent
    I haz all yer cheezburger (none / 0) (#65)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 09:40:40 AM EST
    Haven't read Marsh in ages (none / 0) (#64)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 09:29:16 AM EST
    Will read

    Parent
    They started flogging (5.00 / 1) (#78)
    by jondee on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 12:06:36 PM EST
    their John-Birch-paranoid/racist memes about "Black Panthers seen at polling places" early yesterday..

    And these are the loons we're supposed to trust to carry concealed weapons..

    Parent

    I saw the tape of the New Black Panther (5.00 / 2) (#94)
    by caseyOR on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 02:25:46 PM EST
    gentleman holding the door to the polling place open for an elderly lady. Apparently, nothing is more intimidating than common courtesy.

    Parent
    Rove (none / 0) (#86)
    by Amiss on Wed Nov 07, 2012 at 01:00:51 PM EST
    reared his ugly head at everyone, completely making an parse of himself. Too funny!

    Parent