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So how is everyone feeling about the hearings?

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WilliamPitt Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:45 PM
Original message
So how is everyone feeling about the hearings?
I just got back, and have to transcribe my Bonifaz and Arnebeck interviews for the blog, so I have to jet and will check this thread later. Give me your final impressions.

Incidentally, for those asking, I was completely unable to locate Mr. Curtis of the affadavit. Either he wasn't there or I missed him in the crowd, or he wasn't wishing to be found. Either way, I failed in my quest to get eyes on the situation. Apologies.

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proud patriot Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:47 PM
Response to Original message
1. I saw you , typing away ...LOL
Edited on Wed Dec-08-04 02:47 PM by proud patriot
I feel pretty engergized from it . Thanks for being
there Will :loveya:
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Generic Other Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:13 PM
Response to Reply #1
31. I was listening to Arnebeck
and noticed Will too! No kidding. You got the sweet spot, Pitt!

Thanks for being there. Your presence meant we were all there, my friend.
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jamboi Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:49 PM
Response to Reply #1
42. I feel great about it and thank you for your service! n/t
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Razorback_Democrat Donating Member (756 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:48 PM
Response to Original message
2. Another thread talked about him being interviewed
at the time of the hearings on the radio

I wish I could find that thread easily, but I don't see it.
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rawtribe Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:56 PM
Response to Reply #2
13. He was
on the Thom Hartmann show.
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SueZhope Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:47 PM
Response to Reply #2
40. it was here
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JoMama49 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 04:20 PM
Response to Reply #40
50. For the Harmann Show ...
Go the the Whiterosesociety.org and there you can replay the archived Thomm Hartmann shows. You just have to wait until tonight when they get today's show archived.
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babylonsister Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:49 PM
Response to Original message
3. Thanks for giving us the heads up, Will!
I thought the hearings were great and made me feel some optimism for the first time in a long time. And we saw you on TV!
I hope the MSM addresses all the information discussed and runs with it but I've been watching and haven't heard anything so far.
Good job and your blog rocked!
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da_chimperor Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:49 PM
Response to Original message
4. From what I managed to catch on c-span and from your blog, pretty good
I still have no idea how all of this will turn out, but the hearings were undoubtedly a positive step. Awesome job covering it, thank you.
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Atman Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:49 PM
Response to Original message
5. Like playing the best round of golf ever..
...but no one was there to witness it.

I think it was AWESOME...but it will be ignored.

(BTW...how do like the stickers? Are the on the PittMobile?)
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ohio_liberal Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:51 PM
Response to Reply #5
8. I agree
I think the hearing itself was just stunning but nobody is going to pay attention.
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zann725 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 06:23 PM
Response to Reply #5
73. It may have appeared 'no one was there to witness it...'
but the cameras were rolling. So I'm sure they were...more than we know.
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princehal Donating Member (341 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:50 PM
Response to Original message
6. Thanks For The Blog Updates
I streamed it at work. A lot of passion, but I am scared that this is it.

Sometimes I get depressed at how little we can do about this. To my mind, even if it does not represent enough numbers to change the outcome -- if fraud is found; the election should be invalidated.

Please let there be more...
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jsascj Donating Member (425 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:51 PM
Response to Original message
7. Feeling a bit of hope for the first time since Nov 2.
Thanks for all you do!
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Generator Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:17 PM
Response to Reply #7
34. Exactly-they were inspiring to watch
All those good people. All those average Americans. Not crazy, not delusional-but believing that Democracy matters.

It was the best thing I've seen since November 2nd when I watched the lines for voting on TV. And saw those in Oregon standing with signs reminding those that we could still drop off our ballots in horrible driving rain, even though we are so blessed to have had two weeks to have done so on our own schedule. (we have TWO weeks to vote by mail-talk about seperate and unequal for the rest of the country)

I was impressed and heartened and ready to take to the streets, honestly, if I was in Ohio you couldn't keep me away.
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rumpel Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:51 PM
Response to Original message
9. It is a good start.
Let's keep the pressure up to get to the truth and justice for all.
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texpatriot2004 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:53 PM
Response to Original message
10. I think that they did a great job. It was Professional and it was
informative. I think that they had a great panel of people and I think those conducting the hearing did very well also. Even though there were time constraints the information came across effectively. There were obvious issues in this election. That message was conveyed. There is obvious concern by citizens that message came across too. I think that Conyers did a great job, albeit a difficult one, fielding the questions and managing the overall timing. I was very pleased. I thought that many more hours could obviously be spent on this issue by the experts and politicians, as well as in answering questions from concerned citizens. I was thrilled with this first effort and with the coverage too.
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Chili Donating Member (832 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:56 PM
Response to Original message
11. it felt like we were watching history being made
Edited on Wed Dec-08-04 02:58 PM by Chili
I felt the same way watching the Watergate hearings when I was a kid. Unfortunately, this hearing has none of the weight or power of those procedings. If we make enough noise, we could change that.

I hope that they will keep their word and go to Ohio, and have more hearings. And we still have to hear from the GAO.

I was moved by the passion of many of the panelists. Their testimony was crucial, but the speaker who will stand out for me was the woman who stepped up to the microphone, who just happened to be in town, and simply asked (paraphrasing), "why should we continue to work hard everyday, and pay our taxes, and offer our sons and daughters to you - to bleed for you - when you won't even protect our right to vote?" She made me cry. She was the voice of the people, and hers is the one that must be heard.
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SueZhope Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:51 PM
Response to Reply #11
43. Chili
Yes that women's words spoke volumes....
she spoke for so many unheard voices.

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GetTheRightVote Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 07:13 PM
Response to Reply #11
119. Thank you, she is me and it was DU who inspired me to step up to that mike
Edited on Thu Dec-09-04 07:18 PM by GetTheRightVote
I deeply appreciate your words, it was for the sons and daughters of all of us for whom I spoke, and the soldiers who die over seas so far away from their loved ones while they wait on us to help them, never in my life have I felt so many voices become my own joining into a symphony of Democracy for justice I wished to make my own, it was all who labor while paying to a government our tax, it grew while I watched as a poll worker those who were denigned the right to vote, my heart broke for them that day, but it also carries on for them in their struggle to be heard everyday in a country which does not see them, blinded from their suffering, I could no longer stand by and watch, I had to take a stand and I believe I did so because so many voices out here in the world of the web sounded so similiar to my own, it gave me the strength to stand up for us, the hopeful Americans who still dream of Democracy and freedom. You will never know just how much you all have inspired me. When I carry my flag this Saturday in DC, I carry it for you. I hope you all join in the rallies across this country, they are for us and about our courage to move against a great force which must be crumble to pebbles beneath our feet to save our country, our country people, and our Democracy for our children.
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HEAVYHEART Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Dec-11-04 12:57 AM
Response to Reply #119
130. Holy crap!
Edited on Sat Dec-11-04 12:58 AM by HEAVYHEART
That was you??? I can't believe no one responded to your post! Thank you so much for speaking out! I just now saw the rerun of the hearing. YOU were truly an inspiration!
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prairierose Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Dec-11-04 01:28 AM
Response to Reply #119
135. Thanks for giving voice to our feelings
:hi: You did a great job!
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prairierose Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Dec-11-04 01:26 AM
Response to Reply #11
134. Yep, she was the one who got me....I felt
that she was the voice of the people trying to be heard. Don't get me wrong, I thought the panelists were great & that it was very important the the hearing took place but she was the person who stood out for me. I hope that there is more media coverage because if more people heard the evidence I think that they would begin to wonder what really happened.
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electropop Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:56 PM
Response to Original message
12. My thought while listening was
that Dec 8th will one day be declared a national holiday, "Democracy Day", and will be remembered as the day we started the defeat of fascism in America. Much as July 4th was only a little signing ceremony, and years of fighting followed, I expect the same here. But it will make an easily remembered milestone.
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Twist_U_Up Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:58 PM
Response to Original message
14. First They Ignore you,then they laugh at you
then they fight you..........THEN YOU WIN
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KoKo Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:58 PM
Response to Original message
15. Good comments (your blog)...especially about the "Q & A" session.....
Edited on Wed Dec-08-04 03:05 PM by KoKo01
It seemed to me I was seeing an emergence of a little bit of a power struggle there in the Black Caucus. I felt Conyers was being challenged behind the scenes by those with "more energy." I also felt the panelists "deferred" to Jackson, Sr. which might mean something. Fascinating juggling going on there between Conyers and others politically...to me it seemed, anyway.

I got vibes we were seeing the start of a "New Movement" for Voting Rights in America and Jesse and others want to either control it or allow the younger players to get their start in it. Most impressive Jesse Jackson jr., Major Owens, NY and Bobby Scott, Va. They seemed to be very energetic. Not as impressed with Mel Watt (my NC Rep).

Bonifaz was EXCELLENT and so was COBB (made me think about going Green)

Anyway, I could have done without the "Q&A" folks....

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crispini Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:59 PM
Response to Original message
16. I thought it was GREAT.
Good coverage, good publicity, good participation. And I was really encouraged by the notion of seating two sets of electors, or refusing to accept the electors' votes.

MSM'll start paying attention when THAT happens.
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Clark2008 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 10:39 PM
Response to Reply #16
98. We keep saying that the MSM will
pay attention with this happens or that happens or the hearing happens or the blah, blah, blah.

Yet... they're STILL NOT paying attention.

Should we start slamming them with e-mails, hard-copy letters, phone calls, etc. and asking WHY IN THE HELL SCOTT PETERSON'S CASE IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN OUR DEMOCRACY?

Then we should go after the advertisers.

I'm simply sick - SICK - of the media's ignoring this very important issue. I'm sick of the Republican majority saying that we're all a bunch of crack-pots and tin-foil-hatters, when there are nearly as many of the electorate (20 percent) who think the election was fradulent as there were voters (22 percent) who voted for so-called "moral values."

I've pointed this out in letters to Republicans and the media. So far, no response - at all.

It's time to do what Rechenwald (spelling?) did on Scarborough last night and just start spouting off about it at any given opportunity. Force the lame-stream media to cover this!
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garybeck Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 02:59 PM
Response to Original message
17. how could anyone not feel great about today's hearings?!
my favorite moment was when Conyers said they are now considering not accepting the Ohio electoral votes when the electoral college meets.

which begs the question - what would the electoral vote totals be if they took out Ohio completely (not give it to Kerry)?

g
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rodeodance Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:06 PM
Response to Reply #17
24. " when Conyers said they are now considering not accepting t

the Ohio electon"
I missed some of this hearing---whow--Conyers really said this??
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JoMama49 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 04:36 PM
Response to Reply #24
53. Yes, Conyers said:
in answer to a question about that, he answered "WE ARE NOW!" That was my favorite moment too.
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november3rd Donating Member (653 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 05:08 PM
Response to Reply #17
63. Bush 266 Kerry 254
Bush wins without Ohio but with Florida. Bush needs them both to win, Kerry needs one of them.
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Razorback_Democrat Donating Member (756 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:01 PM
Response to Original message
18. It was full of great stuff
Now, was anyone but us listening?
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carolinalady Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:02 PM
Response to Original message
19. I just hope they really can get access to those machines
and have the experts look at them. I'm afraid they are going to be blocked on that issue. I am also anxious to see how the tabulators compare with the actual results. I think that Mr. Curtis was giving live interviews on the radio during the hearing.
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DARE to HOPE Donating Member (552 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:02 PM
Response to Original message
20. Elated, hopeful, scared, sick in the stomach...still, hopeful!!
Thanks, Will!! Your posts were great!

I was in tears, listening to Jesse--"A direct line from Selma to Ohio!" All the faithful lawyers and election workers, each had a good bit to offer: eyewitness indignation to the prohibitions on voting in the black/poor/student areas. Clear testimony from Arnebeck to the fact that Gore should have been our duly elected President, and that this is why we HAVE to stop the juggernaut THIS TIME!!

Appreciated the commentary about legal foundation--seems pretty tenuous at first look. But turning the equal protection argument against them, and the interesting little bit read out of the Fourteenth Amendment...we have not been left without some redress.

Hooray for my own Congressman, Jesse Jr. Wish he'd open up his email and spend less time on that (!) airport thing. He did speak eloquently today. A Constitutional amendment will take a people's movement, as will this recount battle.

I am in the process of sending your 20 points (about Diebold et al) to the MSM, and an appeal to cover these issues.

THANK YOU for being there today!!
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VTGold Donating Member (438 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:04 PM
Response to Original message
21. High on hearings! What other news organizations did you see?
We should document who was there in case they keep mum.
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ibegurpard Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:04 PM
Response to Original message
22. Hopeful that they actually take this seriously
And this wasn't a bone to try to shut us up. One hearing isn't going to satisfy anyone.
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bloom Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:06 PM
Response to Original message
23. I thought it was great
I esp. liked it when people were able/willing to present facts and statistics and examples of actions taken.

While it is great to have them do that and have it be seen on Cspan, it sounds like lawsuits and/or massive protests a la the Ukraine are going to be the only way to change things.

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SharifromOregon Donating Member (39 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:07 PM
Response to Original message
25. And you, from the inside of the room......
How did things feel to you? Aside from summarizing the speakers, what thoughts can you share about the forum?

:kick:
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BeHereNow Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:07 PM
Response to Original message
26. "Apologies?" Don't be a silly!
Edited on Wed Dec-08-04 03:11 PM by BeHereNow
Geez Louise Will!
You get on a plane, fly to DC, blog us
in real time and you're APOLOGZING?
Good Lord young man!
Sounds like Curtis wasn't there, he was on Hartmann's
show.
I can't imagine how you could have done anymore
than you did today!
THANK YOU WI LL!
:hug:
bhn
On 2nd edit-
something is weird with my mac- it keeps
adding letters to my sig...it's old, like me.
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molly Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:07 PM
Response to Original message
27. GREAT!
except a few suggestions for the future ---

I was embarrassed by most of the questioners - they gave the pugs amunition.

for anyone representing us DEMS - 1.) abide by the rules - other people have a voice and there are time restraints 2.) take a bath before appearing on national TV 3.)comb your hair 4.) don't look like you just crawled out of the neighborhood dumpster 5.) don't drink or TAKE DRUGS 6.) don't be so f'n selfish that you think your opinion is more important than anyone else's standing in line behind you

BUT - wasn't it great to have this on C-Span! I trust that the panel will make great big waves! HOPE is on the way !
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SharonRB Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:08 PM
Response to Original message
28. I was streaming the audio at work...
...and checking your blog. Thanks for being there and keeping us updated. What I heard was great. I taped it at home and will watch what I can over the next few days. Some of the speakers brought me to tears -- esp. the attorney who told the story about the elderly man who left the hospital with an IV just to vote because he couldn't get an absentee ballot. I don't understand how any of this can happen in this country -- the Ukraine is better than we are, at least they admit there was a problem and do something about it. Hopefully this "forum" will start us down the road to overturning this election.
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cry baby Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:09 PM
Response to Original message
29. Finally a show of passion on this very important issue,
especially from Rev. Jackson and his son. Also, lots of passion from the people who asked questions. Wish all of America could have seen it.
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BeHereNow Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:15 PM
Response to Reply #29
33. It is CRIMINAL that America did not see it!
Edited on Wed Dec-08-04 03:16 PM by BeHereNow
We need to blanket the networks with
admonishments for NOT airing these hearings.
They are as guilty as the people who perpuated
and enabled this election fraud...oh wait a minute,
that's right, they are the SAME people.
BLEH!
bhn

Why is my mac adding letters to my sign off?
Anyone know?e
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Pacifist Patriot Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 04:41 PM
Response to Reply #33
56. I agree. Network silence is criminal negligence.
Can't answer your mac question I'm afraid.
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BeHereNow Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 04:56 PM
Response to Reply #56
60. Thanks!
I did a shut down restart and it seems to have
remedied the problem.
I hope...
bhn
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Liberty Belle Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 06:43 PM
Response to Reply #33
76.  Our local CBS station interrupted normal programming
yesterday to show Shrub's helicopter taking off from Camp Pendleton, but the same dumbo station managers decided it was more important to air game shows than this hearing.
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noclonyofthechimp Donating Member (656 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:11 PM
Response to Original message
30. Thanks Will. I have a question that I hope someone may know?
I am sure this has been asked before and I am sorry if I missed the thread with the answer. Now that the house appears to be more than willing to stand up and contest the election when the electoral meets and it's been said that they only need one senator to do so, CAN Kerry be that Senator or is he disqualified because he was a presidential candidate and it's a conflict of interest? Can Edwards?

If the answer is "yes". Do any of you think that this may be the hail Mary we have been waiting for?

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SmokingJacket Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:15 PM
Response to Original message
32. The media blackout on this continues to BLOW my mind!
I know they suck, I know, but honestly! Not a peep out of any of them.

If it weren't for DU I wouldn't know anything about it.

I don't have C-span, so I'm getting all my info from you guys.

I can't believe it!

THANKS, PITT!!
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BeHereNow Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:19 PM
Response to Reply #32
35. That's how I feel...
Edited on Wed Dec-08-04 03:20 PM by BeHereNow
It is outrageous that they blacked it out.
Btw- You can watch it online by going to
the C-span web site.
Someone just posted that it is now up
in their archives. YES!
bhnu

Okay, this is weird!
Why do extra letters keep appearing by my
sign off? I did not put that "u" there!
Maybe I need a new keyboard...t
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ihelpu2see Donating Member (935 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 08:41 PM
Response to Reply #32
87. Yes the so called "liberal bias" in the media.
they are all sell outs, here in ct on the rare morning the biggest AM station mentions another brave soldier dying in Iraq, they never mention the total # killed in the line of duty or for that matter the terrible civilian deaths as well.:tinfoilhat: :tinfoilhat: illegal codesmilie_remote(':tinfoilhat:')
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EuroObserver Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 10:47 PM
Response to Reply #32
99. I´d expect the BBC be reporting more from here on in
They posted this on the world news site on 6th Dec:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/4071845.stm

--
Key US state certifies Bush win

The issue of long queues could be addressed in a legal challenge

The US battleground state of Ohio has certified the victory of President George W Bush's in last month's poll.

Mr Bush beat Democratic rival John Kerry by almost 119,000 votes in Ohio, state authorities said on Monday.

This was less than the unofficial election night margin of 136,000 - but not enough for a mandatory recount.

The election hung on Ohio, which had the 20 electoral votes that would decide the winner. Mr Kerry did not concede until the day after the poll.

Recount bid

Two other presidential candidates, the Green Party's David Cobb and Libertarian Michael Badnarik, plan to request a recount in each of Ohio's 88 counties.

The candidates have raised enough money to pay for the recount themselves.

On Friday a US district judge halted an attempt by one county to stop the recount.

But both major parties have said they do not expect the recount to change the result.

The Kerry campaign is also backing the recount, AP news agency reports.

However, it says it is not disputing the outcome of the election but simply wants to make sure the count was accurate.
--
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newyawker99 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 10:03 AM
Response to Reply #99
108. Hi EuroObserver!!
Welcome to DU!! :toast:
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Vidar Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:19 PM
Response to Original message
36. Hopeful, but scared. Cobb, Jackson, Conyers, Arnebeck & others,
including you Will, are fighting effectively and are beginning to use the "fraud" word in lieu of "irregularities". I applaud your heroism
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Helga Scow Stern Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:22 PM
Response to Original message
37. Was it "subtle disrespect" by Dean to be giving a speech during this?
How can he or anyone else who cares about voters be doing anything else while this is going on? I just have a gut reaction to that. I am still upset. It makes me feel dissed as a voter, like my rights don't matter, like he wants me to pretend that everything is okay and we can move on now.

How dare he? Giving a speech at the same time is just too much!!!
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robbedvoter Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:59 PM
Response to Reply #37
47. Like others, dean gives this election as "lost"
Edited on Wed Dec-08-04 04:00 PM by robbedvoter
  Here in Washington, it seems that after every losing election, there's a consensus reached among decision-makers in the Democratic Party is that the way to win is to be more like Republicans.
http://www.truthout.org/docs_04/120904Y.shtml
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ClintCooper2003 Donating Member (629 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 07:11 PM
Response to Reply #47
82. I don't think Dean really wanted Kerry to win anyway.
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Eloriel Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 11:15 PM
Response to Reply #82
105. And you base that on what --
how hard he worked for Kerry? There's NO ONE aside from the candidates and their families who worked as hard as Dean to get the man who dirty tricked him out of the nomination elected.
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Eloriel Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 11:04 PM
Response to Reply #37
102. Oh, bullshit
What a bunch of hooey. He had no place there, nor really did Kerry or any of his staff. In case you didn't notice, this was a Congressional hearing -- or not a hearing. He wasn't being asked to testify, nor did he have anything to offer separately. It's a thoroughly ridiculous criticism, pointless and gratuitous (and so was Pitt's, or actually his even more so).

Where's your criticism of Terry McAulifee by comparison, or Al Sharpton or John Kerry or John Edwards or Carol Mosely Braun or Dennis Kucinich if you want to go after nominees and former candidates? It just wasn't their place, period.
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KerryReallyWon Donating Member (297 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Dec-11-04 01:13 AM
Response to Reply #37
132. Howard always spoke first, thought about it later...
I never liked that guy!
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ElementaryPenguin Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:41 PM
Response to Original message
38. TREMENDOUSLY encouraged!!
And thanks for being there!

:yourock:
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FredStembottom Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:41 PM
Response to Original message
39. Two questions
I'm new to many things since Nov. 2nd.

Two questions:

Would the hearings be something I will find archived in Real Video at C-Span for viewing later tonight?

Also,

Will Pitt is everywhere in the Progressive reading I do, but...where exactly is his Blog?
:dunce:
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proud patriot Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:47 PM
Response to Reply #39
41. here ya go
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FredStembottom Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:55 PM
Response to Reply #41
45. Super! Thanks. And I just stumbled onto a link for the hearings
in RA at C-span.

Learning, Learning!
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Snivi Yllom Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:52 PM
Response to Original message
44. I will be curious what you got out of Arnebeck
Watching the hearing it seems all he now has is statistics which is not going to change a thing. He stated he will get more evidence in discovery. This is not encouraging.

1. What if he does not get access to the information he is seeking via discovery? Why is his lawsuit being delayed again?

2. What is his course of action of he is granted discovery but does not find anything to prove his claims.
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SueZhope Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 03:58 PM
Response to Original message
46. Thanks so much....Will could you share your take on...
Jeff Fisher

Have you ever spoken to him?

Do you feel there is any credibility in his story?
After seeing his not so polished appearance today,
it was easy to think that perhaps he is just off the wall..

However maybe he really has something legitimate to share.

Thanks
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JoMama49 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 04:46 PM
Response to Reply #46
58. Jeff Fisher's Presentation
really worried me. He did not seem like a stable, healthy person, to me to tell you the truth. He seemed like someone on cocaine or speed -- or someone suffering from extreme stress disorder. He could hardly spit out his website - something like "walk with jeff fisher" Did anyone else get that? The Right Wing spinmeisters will have a hay day with his performance if they get ahold of it. They'll use him as the poster child of all the crazy leftees whining about the election. They'll call him a whack job and play his stammering expression over and over. I can hear it now. Let's hope they just ignore him for the time being, anyway.
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caligirl Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 05:20 PM
Response to Reply #58
65. I had high hopes for this meeting. Fisher and some others cost the hearing
some credibility. There are some serious allegations that need to be addressed and Fisher and a couple of others asking questions at the end did not add anything to the meeting. They were a negative for me. I came away thinking he was part of another three ring circus, a distraction from the disenfranchisement we want resolved. I was happy to see Barney Frank attend. I liked what Conyers and Jackson Jr had to say. Didn't like the argument Conyers had with the lady about a petition , she was wrong to present that in that forum. Again it was the Q and A at the end that I was concerned about, some did nothing to further the investigation of Ohio. The guy who went to the FBI and then wondered if he wasted his time was good. Would love to know what he saw in Ohio.
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myschkin Donating Member (488 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 07:04 PM
Response to Reply #65
80. I think the same

But the rest was incredible...

It was like a movie.
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davidlynch Donating Member (461 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Dec-10-04 01:33 AM
Response to Reply #58
126. Fisher Looked Like A Nut
Absolutely, that was terrible, one of the lowest points. He is what they're talking about when they say the "tin foil hat" set. The poster child. Barney Frank handled him as well as one could, but he did seem like he was on crystal meth.

I feel resentful that people like him manage to get in there, he represents a threat to the more even-handed folks.

Thank god for Arnebeck, quite the opposite.
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Sick_of_Rethuggery Donating Member (853 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 04:09 PM
Response to Original message
48. I liked the tone (sincere and earnest!) and the passion...
However, I thought that they were a little too nervous and short on specifics -- what needed to be done today was to lay out cold hard facts, with absolutely no emotion and no mention of parties.

They should have gotten as much of the details of the fraudulence as possible out today...seems like a missed opportunity in that sense...

On the other hand, the raw emotion may actually move some moderate Republicans...
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lavendermist Donating Member (172 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 04:17 PM
Response to Original message
49. Will..
I am feeling hopeful that election reform can take place, but not if we just count on those we saw this morning. There is so much "politician" in most of the people on the panel this morning, that we cannot depend on their support being enough. The main thing I took out of all that was "we the people" have to act. It is bigger than John Kerry or George Bush. This is our democracy we are talking about. Our forefathers struggled and died for this, and our sons, daughters, husbands, wives are dying at this moment because of their loyalty to us and our country.

If we are called to, we need to get out in the streets. We need to put some action behind all the statistics and reports. We need to shame our lawmakers into just plain doing what is right. Democracy is a participatory project. We are not there yet. This country is not as good or as great as it can be. We, the people, have to get involved. We, the people, have to care. We, the people, ......... You fill in the blanks.

Oh, btw, thanks for being there, and here, for us. :thumbsup:
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HEAVYHEART Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 04:26 PM
Response to Original message
51. I didn't see the hearings
I do want to thank you for continued hard work and for keeping us updated. Did I tell I love you? :*
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CornField Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 04:32 PM
Response to Original message
52. I feel like Rev. Jackson
I'm tired of talking about it just for the sake of talking about it... I want some action.

I thought the hearing/forum was a good thing -- it was good to bring so many together to share information. I hope that connections were made behind the scenes that will help the groups to work more closely with one another and more effectively.

I'm still quite frustrated with the media as a whole. I'm frustrated by the democrats who are willing to let the neoconservatives not only wrap themselves in the flag, but to hide behind the cross as well.

I wish there was more that I could do. I send notes to the media... I write letters to the editor... I contribute to recount campaigns... but I'm getting tired of just sitting here and waiting. Patience was never my strong suit.
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SueZhope Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 04:39 PM
Response to Original message
54. Bradblog says Curtis was there
Hope this is not a dupe

http://bradblogtoo.blogspot.com/2004/12/more-quick-clint-curtis-media-notes.html

Curtis met this morning with a U.S. Senator's office to discuss what he claims to know about a certain aspect of his case. We're being purposely vague on details here, as we've been asked, so as not to spook anybody out there in particular.

He was also present at today's Dem Judiciary Committee Hearings on the Ohio Election. We're told he was "swarmed afterwards" by folks who wanted to talk to him.



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Senator Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 10:57 PM
Response to Reply #54
101. Yes, I met him at the hearing
For a good bit of the hearing (perhaps all) he was in the hall outside.

I only met him briefly. Only enough time to express sympathy about his dog.

FWIW, he seem calm and pleasant. Not foaming at the mouth or anything.

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Pacifist Patriot Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 04:41 PM
Response to Original message
55. Initially elated, but the realist in me kicked in.
That usually happens when I talk to my mother. She reminded me of an excellent point that was made within the meeting itself. Republicans control all branches of government. Until they step up to the plate we're walking in quick sand. Who is going to stand up and volunteer to prosecute himself? I'm beginning to feel as if I'm being held hostage by a political party again. That darned mother of mine! Why can't she leave my idealistic hopefulness alone? ;)
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Marnieworld Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 04:44 PM
Response to Original message
57. This was a start but I want more action.
I wish they didn't have time constraints. That was annoying. I was thrilled with all of the people they had on the panels. I want more. I want the lawsuits to uncover thr fraud and overturn the election and I want it now. So, of course a hearing couldn't satisfy me.

It was sooo nice to have my reality reflecting back to me on my TV again. I haven't seen that since Nov 1st. Keep hope Alive!
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karlrschneider Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 04:47 PM
Response to Original message
59. No cable here, tried to get the audio stream but stuck with dialup so it
was ridiculously hard to keep up, 10 secs of audio, 10 of buffering. :grr: But it's a baby step at least...thanks for all your valiant efforts! I'll have a looksee at the transcript when it's online.
:toast:
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november3rd Donating Member (653 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 05:00 PM
Response to Original message
61. The hearings have to be the beginning
Edited on Wed Dec-08-04 05:01 PM by november3rd
of a snowballing, democratic movement coming to life now in the blue states and then sweeping the country.

we need to elect our leaders. we need to participate in democracy for our society to work.

we need to get active and get organized EVERY DAY until we TAKE BACK our democracy from the corporations!

(ooops! sorry, i forgot! we're supposed to be kind to corporations; they're persons, too.)
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MoonRiver Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 05:03 PM
Response to Original message
62. My hope for the survival of our democracy has resurfaced.
nuff said.
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Window Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 05:18 PM
Response to Original message
64. I was deeply moved
listening to the speakers. Actually, it's the best I've felt since Nov. 2. Hopefully, if we keep up the pressure the MSM will give us some play.

Thanks to you, and all at DU, for all your hard work and dedication to our cause...DEMOCRACY, AT ANY COST!
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bunny planet Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 05:21 PM
Response to Original message
66. Feeling pumped. Thank you for all of your work and for keeping us
posted through your blog. I've sent it to everyone I know!!!!!!
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OneBlueSky Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 05:23 PM
Response to Original message
67. Q: If Congess holds a hearing in the woods . . .
and nobody reports on it, did it really happen? . . .
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kk897 Donating Member (829 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 05:32 PM
Response to Original message
68. I was personally most encouraged by JJJ
I think he will be a fabulous political leader. OK, so I'm not really up on Party bigwigs or races in other states, but I had no idea he was a Rep.

Also, I was impressed that Fitrakis got 'em fired up even in the context of a Congressional hearing! I hadn't heard about his personal experience before, about the old woman who fainted, and how he swore he'd do something about it. His narrative really humanized the issues. (Plus gotta love the hometown dude; I can say with a measure of pride that he introduced our band at a MoveOn fundraiser earlier this year and that I've shaken his hand. Hey, I know a famous person!)
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Ladyhawk Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 05:51 PM
Response to Original message
69. I missed them, but I'm glad to see you're involved.
At the end of the day, even if you disagree with him, Will Pitt is one smart cookie. :)

Thanks, Will. :hug:
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Peace Patriot Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 06:07 PM
Response to Original message
70. Some impressions of the Conyers hearing...
I thought the most impressive speakers were Jesse Jackson, Cliff Arnebeck, John Bonifaz (the Gandhi quote was great!), and Jesse Jackson Jr., although most of the invited speakers were good, well-focused, and on point.

Some who didn't come across as great speakers overall still had wonderful moments--like Susan Truitt talking about the man with the IV in his arm, who couldn't get an absentee ballot in the hospital. She made excellent points, like our voting system taken over by private corps.--a bit rushed sounding--but her EXAMPLE of the man with the IV was terrific. Great image formed. (Her statement, “Our election system is broken,” was also good.)

Bob Fitrakis was similar. What stayed with me was his EXAMPLE of the elderly woman on chemo, walking with a cane, waiting 2.5 hours to vote, fainting from fatigue, and then walking away finally, having been unable to vote--and Bob’s vow to do something about this. A VERY powerful image.

I listened on line, by the way--www.kpfa.org. It cut out a few times. I missed most of the student's testimony. (I read here that he was good.) And KPFA didn't broadcast the general public comments--shut it off and went to call-ins, after the official speakers were over. (Thanks to them for broadcasting it, though!) (And to CSPAN!)

The chief points that stand out in my mind--and that I was listening for, were--

--plain threat to the Dems by Jesse J that the Dems better act "before Michael Moore comes back to document another capitulation" (i.e., the famous scene in "F9/11" wherein no Senator could be found to stand up for black voting rights);

--plain threat by Conyers to the Dems: asked if Committee was considering opposing Bush slate of Ohio Electors, he said, "We are now."

--Bonifaz saying that, if recount shows Kerry win, the Kerry Electors WILL meet and vote, and there will be TWO sets of Ohio Electors, "one certified by SoS Blackwell, and the one certified by the people of Ohio."

Them's fightin words!

Other things that stood out:

--frequent repetition (several speakers): "This election is not over."

--open use of the word "fraud" to describe this election (esp. by Arnebeck--who was an excellent speaker)

--both vote suppression AND electronic fraud were frequently mentioned (a good sign that most speakers/OH activists see the big picture)

--I'm glad that both student and Latino vote suppression got mentioned and well described (I wish someone had brought up the evidence that Bush Inc. stole votes from REPUBLICANS who voted for Kerry--but I guess you can't have everything!)

--emphasis on (it really came across) how much poor and minority voters were DELIBERATELY abused and suppressed.

--the point about the Ukraine and Iraq elections was also a good one (Bush Inc. preaching democracy abroad, and sabotaging it here).

Arnebeck made some really clear statements of purpose: "THE FRAUD IN THIS ELECTION IN OHIO MUST BE FIXED BEFORE THIS ELECTION IS FINALIZED." "WE WILL NOT TOLERATE FRAUD." "WE WILL NOT MOVE ON." Great stuff.

Jesse J:

"The long line from Selma to Ohio"--great line. Good story about ML King getting Nobel prize, meeting with LBJ, and LBJ saying no, they couldn't get Voting Rights for blacks out of the Congress, so King had to go back to Selma and "spill some more of our blood" (or something like that). His list of civil rights heros--Fannie Lou Hamer, etc.--was very moving.

Jesse spoke too fast (as usual) but made a large number of significant points--

--that the Greens/Libs-- "the last remnants of our democracy"-- were "casting light in dark places that others have surrendered too early" (and another prod at Kerry later on)

--and his long list of election abuses and vote suppression, fairly comprehensive (many re-emphasized by others).

All in all, it was simply terrific to get these facts on the record, by such a distinguished list of activists, and with often very moving and passtionate testimony. (I also missed Julia Davis--the eloquent mom, whose lament for the blood of our children in Iraq and disgust at assaults on our right to vote apparently brought an awed silence to the room.)

Steven Freeman:

One disappointment--aside from the fact that no one from the K/E campaign was represented (nor the DNC), was that Steven Freeman wasn’t well used and didn’t have enough time.

This guy is brilliant, a clear thinker, and an excellent writer. I was hoping he would do charts and stuff. He just mumbled a few words and stopped. He was LAST, and his time got compressed. (Why oh why?) They should really have taken advantage of his superb analytical skills, and what his study showed. He did manage to convey that the results of the election were statistically impossible.

But what happened on Election Day re: the Exit Polls--the TV networks polluting the Exit Poll data with Republican-owned electronic "results" late in the afternoon, thus disguising Kerry's big numbers in the Exit Polls--and the different story in the Ukraine--REALLY needed to be told!

In some ways, it's the WHOLE story. Kerry voters did NOT KNOW what had been done to them. (The Ukrainians DID!) The info was hidden here--or maybe we would have had 500,000 people in the streets on Election Day as well.

SOMEBODY should have explained this. Understanding the Exit poll story is also very important to understanding the overall picture of electronic fraud. And it could have led into mention of the many OTHER analyses--really an overwhelming picture of a fraudulent election (weird anomalous numbers in at least a dozen states, using different kinds of data, not just the Exit Polls).

...which brings me to another point. Clarity of action.

The action on the recount and the lawsuits was made very clear. The speakers on these matters were very good. But the thing about a Constitutional amendment, while an eloquent point, and a righteous one, leaves people with the feeling that the FEDERAL DADDY is somehow going to fix this. Congress is NOT going to fix this! And with Tom Delay in charge, they could well make it worse.

The only way this is going to get fixed is by local grass roots groups lobbying local officials. What we need is very simple:
1. A paper trail for every vote.
2. Open source code.

If we leave this issue up to Congress, they could well take away what election auditability we now have. What power would Conyers or the Dems have to stop it? None.

And there is no way Congress is going to do a C. amendment, except maybe as a trade--and what nefarious thing would Bush Inc. offer (trading the right to vote for gay rights?).

I think it's an illusion, and a side-track, to hope for a C. amendment, or to spend time on it. It's a nice talking point. That's about all.

Conclusion: Excellent hearing! I failed to mention Bill Moss--he was great! So many fine moments, so much information to the public.

People here complain that this hearing wasn’t broadcast by the networks, and had little pre-coverage--angry at the corporate media for their collusion and corruption, deservedly so. Some are also anxious for instant results--a reversal of the election--or are caught up with the immediate future prospect of an election reversal. I long for that, too, of course--and still have hope that it can occur.

But the long, long buildup of Bush Inc.’s illegitimate power and the wrongful assertion of fascist policies may not be so easy to overturn. We have to understand this hearing as another step. First was our shock and disbelief on 11/2. Then getting involved and seeking facts--and wonderful people like those at DU developing facts. And the many heroes, like the Greens, getting in there with fast and difficult legal action. This hearing is just the next step.

Unexpected things may--and likely will--happen. If, for instance, K and E are moved to sign the House members petition, that could change everything overnight, no matter whether it results in ousting Bush Inc. or not (even that may not!). It would change the whole tenor of Washington and the nation, bringing hope and encouragement. Even just the Ohio recount going for Kerry would dramatically escalate this movement.

Bad things can happen, too, but why dwell on those? Bad things ARE happening, really bad things. We may be in for a longer nightmare.

Did that stop Martin Luther King? Or Nelson Mandela (30 years in jail)?

We’ve got to keep the long view in mind. This was an historic day on the long road Jesse talked about.
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SmokingJacket Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 07:05 PM
Response to Reply #70
81. Great post -- thanks for the fill-in. n/t
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Viktor Runeberg Donating Member (85 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 11:28 PM
Response to Reply #70
106. No mention of hearing by Jennings
Did any newscast, network or cable, cover this hearing?
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FloridaCrat Donating Member (160 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 12:19 PM
Response to Reply #70
113. Great post summarizing
I watched, but didn't have all the names.

"I think that you are especially right when you say: "Bad things
ARE happening, really bad things. We may be in for a longer
nightmare."

We need some "power to the people" rallies or "take back the
airwaves" to get the MSM bloodsuckers from using our resources
without giving anything back.

Jesse was truly inspirational and at times emotional yesterday.
I hope we can learn from him and propel the movement beyond
where it is today.

It's time for movement Organizers to step forward. We need the
power of our numbers to be heard.

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mod mom Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 06:12 PM
Response to Original message
71. preaching to the choir
who paid attention to this but us die hards? Even Howard Dean spoke (unrelatedly) when this should have been taking center stage. Our own dem leadership ignores us. SHAME on them.
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stella2cat Donating Member (157 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 06:15 PM
Response to Original message
72. and they actually used the F word! n/t
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BlackVelvet04 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 06:26 PM
Response to Original message
74. I didn't get to watch them
but I'm encouraged from what I have read here.
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Liberty Belle Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 06:37 PM
Response to Original message
75. Did you hear about the NASA van crash? Any relation?
Edited on Wed Dec-08-04 06:51 PM by Liberty Belle
LA Times reports a van carrying 10 people from NASA crashed, killing 3. Any chance some of those passengers might have been linked to all this, given that Curtis, the programmer who signed the affidavit, used to work at NASA?
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eowyn_of_rohan Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 07:00 PM
Response to Reply #75
78. WHOA!
I have not heard a word about that. I hope no one was killed...for a couple reasons.
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stella2cat Donating Member (157 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 07:01 PM
Response to Reply #75
79. that thought struck me also n/t
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eowyn_of_rohan Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 06:59 PM
Response to Original message
77. VERY wound up inside ...
It was riveting...Arnebeck and Bonifaz were FABULOUS, as were many others. I was glad to see such a cross section of people, opinions, delivery styles. I was disappointed that hearing ended so soon, and that the "common folk" were not given more time to speak. I especially felt badly for the woman who was cut off, while others had been allowed to go on and on. I was sickened that not a single Reptilican showed up, but not surprised. All in all it got me really fired up, and now I do not know what to do with this nervous energy and angst.
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bleever Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 07:17 PM
Response to Original message
83. Hi Will, My overarching impression was that volumes of material that
were previously (i.e., 2-3 weeks ago) the province of "internet conspiracy theorists" are now in the hands of House Judiciary Committee members.

Even wild-eyed Jeff Fisher is getting a meeting with a staff attorney, and with Arnebeck and Stephen Freeman and assorted others there, we've gone in a short period of time from wondering why no one will utter even the word "fraud" to having a governmental body (composed of great folks like Conyers, Wexler, Frank, and others) gathering all the evidence.

I'd say a very good day. Look forward to your thoughts.
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Patsy Stone Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 09:52 PM
Response to Reply #83
90. You are correct
Edited on Wed Dec-08-04 10:17 PM by Patsy Stone
This has moved from the realm of insanity to the realm of reality/possibility. It confirms our sanity. That is special.
Whoever quoted Gandhi at the thing today (I didn't catch his name) gave me goosebumps. I've heard that quote a million times but today, hearing it on the Hill, was very special.
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bleever Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 10:01 PM
Response to Reply #90
91. Indeed, Pats. "Racing with the thunder, and rising with the heat..."
;)
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Patsy Stone Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 10:15 PM
Response to Reply #91
92. We're at the "fight" part...
"First they ignore you. Then they ridicule you. Then they fight you. Then you win." -- Mahatma Gandhi

How YOU doin?
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bleever Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 10:21 PM
Response to Reply #92
93. Fightin', cuz I know what comes after.
With a brief break for bourbon and bluegrass.

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Zookeeper Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 07:22 PM
Response to Original message
84. I watched the entire hearing...
and thought it was important and historic. It appeared to me that the participant's enthusiasm grew during the three hours; that they were encouraged by everyone's passion and committment. (You were there, Will. Did you sense that?)

I also checked out the other news channels during that broadcast. Zilch. It was like it wasn't happening. I realized that we may have to take our cue from the street protests in Ukraine. It's time to make a BIG noise, DEMAND that the MSM report this story in a non-partisan fashion. Take to the streets if necessary. There must be people out there who still care about honest elections and will respond if they receive unbiased information.

We also need to be prepared for major BushCo machinations as this story is uncovered.
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Pacifist Patriot Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 12:24 PM
Response to Reply #84
114. My experience/thoughts exactly.
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Donailin Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 07:26 PM
Response to Original message
85. Frustrated/Dissatisfied
Speaking as a C-Span junkie who has been listening day in and day out for over five years, the hearings were mediocre if not just plain WEAK. No hard direct questions were asked. There seemed to be no coordination or control over the length of the questions, or the quality. Folks who got to inquire made personal statements instead of being as short as possible so more could be asked.

I don't care for Conyers, he is just a little too slow and not too sharp in style. While that may be a great affectation in certain circumstances, this is not the time. Jackson was good, but he was given ample time to be effective. Other witnesses who had some colder harder facts were not given enough time to go in depth.

And the three questions that I wanted asked were not asked:

Does John Kerry plan on publicly joining this fight or not? We are a cause without a leader. We believe there is ample circumstantial evidence for fraud. Does Kerry think there is or not??

(While no one can speak for him, Kerry knew damn well what was going on today, and I'm certain he is aware that many are wondering if he plans on going against the Bush administration publicly. This would certainly energize the base and bring the focus the fraud AND make the evening news. . )

Second question: Are there major plans to audit these black boxes? When? How?

Third: When can we expect criminal charges against Blackwell for disenfranchising thousand of voters?

(Stop beating around the Bush, it's a crime to prevent people from voting. The people demand justice. Enough of this political pussyfooting around.)

The hearing had no punch and will not be breaking news, it was not nearly as proffesional as it should have been, there was no seriousness and urgency noted by this viewer. ;/
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Zookeeper Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 10:27 PM
Response to Reply #85
95. I really liked Conyers...
I thought he came across as intelligent, measured and thoughtful, but also determined to find the truth. He isn't flashy, but that's OK because there were plenty of other people full of fire.

No one, especially in the MSM, wants to touch this. All of the people who appeared today were sticking their necks out. The fact that it isn't being reported by the MSM is evidence that it is an extremely dangerous and volatile story.

My question though, why are the African-American members of the House stuck with the heavy lifting? I'm wondering where my Democratic representative was. (And I will be e-mailing her to find out.)
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nashville_brook Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 12:27 PM
Response to Reply #85
116. i have to agree, i was not happy with conyers
he's very old-school and didn't seem very engaged in the material. i thought the concerns were treated unprofessionally. i thought coonyers seemed like he was just going thru the motions.
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Donailin Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 06:51 PM
Response to Reply #116
117. I feel like this:
I want all new representatives. Everyone who has been in their cushy seat forever and has no fire in thier belly to put the PEOPLE first except getting up in the middle of the night to vote themselves a pay raise ought to be voted the fuck out.

oh wait. the vote is hacked. Fine,

Next election, I am protesting the vote. Isn't that the threat in Iraq? That there will be a state wide protest because they believe it will be rigged. Officials don't like that, the idea of no one showing up to vote, or only half the people showing up to vote.

Oh, wait. Half the people here ALREADY don't show up to vote.

sigh. we're fucked.
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nashville_brook Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Dec-10-04 11:43 AM
Response to Reply #117
129. yep! i agree. i used to feel all gushy
when i went to vote. like it was the privilage born of revolution. that it meant something. i was always annoyed with my friends who refused to vote. i thought it was tremendously irresponsible. or just wrong.

now -- i don't know. i don't believe in the vote anymore -- not with the fascists in control. i don't even expect there to be another vote in 4 years. what's the point, anyway?
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txindy Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 08:29 PM
Response to Original message
86. I was impressed
In a little over a month, we've gone from being accused of sporting foil on our heads to watching these same issues being presented to a receptive Congressional committee.

I liked the way the questions were asked and the material was presented. It was professional and matter-of-fact. No wild accusations. No hysteria. No reason for wingnuts to froth at the mouth (any more than their usual rabid ravings), but plenty of facts for discussion throughout the country by those who were previously unaware of these 'irregularities'.
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maryallen Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 09:05 PM
Response to Original message
88. Thanks, Will ...
Had to work, so couldn't watch the hearing. Appreciated so much your excellent running commentary. Next best thing to being there.
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DemonFighterLives Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 09:48 PM
Response to Original message
89. Very Interesting
Can't wait to hear your take.

:kick:
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dissenting crone Donating Member (18 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 10:32 PM
Response to Reply #89
97. Thank you Will!
We got only the audio, but the power came through in the voices, and the intensity was inspiring and heartfelt.

To those of us who feel our vote was not counted, this was an incredible hearing.

We cannot back away from this fight.

P.S. Farenheit 9/11 has been nominated for People's Choice award: I'm too new to post this; could someone else alert the boards?
Go here and vote; make the bushies and their minions furious.

http://www.pcavote.com/voting/film/f01.shtml
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idealista Donating Member (85 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 10:21 PM
Response to Original message
94. How many people watch C-SPAN?
I know it is not many compared to the number watching the networks, but think of how few people knew about the election problems, in detail, mostly just from the internet, Olbermann, and friends. The C-SPAN exposure could expand that significantly. Who watches during the day? Elderly? Unemployed? My friend with AIDS likes to watch C-SPAN.
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Zookeeper Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 10:30 PM
Response to Reply #94
96. I put quite a number of things on hold to watch...
the hearing today. And I did encourage folks that I saw later in the day to try and find a transcript of the meeting. When a transcript or download is available, I intend to hand it out to everyone I know.

Many people don't get C-Span, so it may be up to us to spread the word.
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senegal1 Donating Member (489 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 11:12 PM
Response to Reply #96
104. Time to get a moderate honest Republican on board
I haven't seen the hearings yet -- waiting for the archive on pacifica but seems like we should be planning the next phase so interest builds on interest. Of course we need media and demonstations but we need to be smarter than the 60s. We need to get a moderate and honest and brave republican on board. Any ideas from those on DU who are better connected to the political scene? What kind of strategy would work? Maybe this is pie in the sky but can we work it to our advantage that the DNC and Kerry haven't come on board?

We also have to come up with a behind the scene funder or a couple who can pop for some of the needs -- we little people can only give so much. If I had to pick out the two key needs now these would be it.
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Donailin Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Dec-10-04 07:56 AM
Response to Reply #94
127. I listen everyday
about 8 hours on my headphones. My job is a no-brainer so I have to keep my mind busy and informed.
I go between C-span, NPR and Pacifica.

Everyone should watch c-span as often as possible, especially the Washington Journal which is on everyday from 7-10 AM. Brian Lamb, the creator of C-span hosts this on Friday. After years of listening, I conclude he leans to the right. The best part about C-span is that any political event is covered with no commentary, so folks judge for themselves what the truth may be. For instance, the march in NYC before the RNC was broadcast all day, from start to finish -- as they do with all political rallies which are usually held on weekends.
If there is a hearing, C-span will have guests who are spokesmen or panel members or politicians both pro and con on WJ the day it is scheduled. There are usually two call-in lines, you can only call once a month. The lines are Bush supporter or Democrat, occasionally there will be a third party line. My complaint about their system is that they alternate between Bush supporter and democrat evenly, which does not give any indication on what line get's more calls. There could be a hundred dem callers lined up and only 10 bush callers leaving the impression that there an even split in the support of either.

However, I just cannot begin to praise the wealth of information one can get from C-Span. The hearings on 911, enron, viox, FCC and other important issues were riveting, much better than any reality TV. You can hear how your senator/ or representative earns their money. You also learn how the big players on the Hill fight for your money in the budget process. And there's the daily PPB where one can always get a laugh listening to McCullen defend the asshole, although at times you just want to strangle him for being obtuse and dishonest. And God Bless helen Thomas, she NEVER shies away.


I know many c-span listeners, they work at home, listen in their office or on their way to/from work.

C-span is 90.1 in the DC area.
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cyn2 Donating Member (438 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 10:57 PM
Response to Original message
100. Wonderful! I wondered if this would be one of those times...
when I looked back and thought, yes.....I saw that live!
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Bill Bored Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 11:11 PM
Response to Original message
103. The woman from NJ
who wasn't permitted to finish her statement wanted the Representatives to challenge the electoral vote on Jan. 6! It will be in the record, but she didn't get to say it.
Her declaration can be found at:
thedeanpeople.org
She's on Air America right now.
Check it out!
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Nothing Without Hope Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-04 11:38 PM
Response to Original message
107. Thank you, Will. We rely on you, and you always come through. (n/t)
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btyarbro Donating Member (23 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 10:15 AM
Response to Original message
109. The hearings demand action
I, too, followed every word during the hearings.

For briefer coverage, that lists Ways to Take Action, see

http://www.politicalstrategy.org/archives/000905.php#905
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Hamoth Donating Member (292 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 10:22 AM
Response to Original message
110. At RRMB everyone's ticked off.
I think a lot of people expected Kerry to come out in a superman cape and save the day in some kind of media stunt. They are only now realizing that there is no "secret plan". They are turning on each other like wolves. It's sad. I'm doing damage control, explaining why today was such a victory for us.
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wovenpaint Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 10:37 AM
Response to Original message
111. Hope springs eternal
If this election gets turned around, it will be because of the likes of the patriots in that room. (as well as the many, many more that that are furiously working at it)
My one critique is the question session. I shook may head, thinking that questions should be just that. (LaRouche?) Oh well. :shrug:
I'm wondering if the fact that all these bills are being pushed thru (Patriot Act II, Ten Commandments in public buildings, Intel, etc) and appts and resignations so quickly may be a foreshadowing-Or maybe just the result of a stacked deck?

I continue to expect a miracle.
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TruthIsAll Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 10:46 AM
Response to Original message
112. Too short. Too rushed. It should have gone six hours min.
That's my only complaint.
The evidence of fraud is overwhelming.
It needs time to be presented.
It was for fact-finding, right?



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FloridaCrat Donating Member (160 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 12:26 PM
Response to Original message
115. We have to take Jesse's advice and not leave this as a no-action bitch
session. Jesse was truly inspirational and at times emotional.
I hope we can learn from him and propel the movement beyond
where it is today.

The total lack of any MSM made me very afraid.

It's time for movement Organizers to step forward. We need the
power of our numbers to be heard.

We need some "power to the people" rallies or "take back the
airwaves" to get the MSM bloodsuckers from using our resources
without giving anything back.

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PATRICK Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Dec-10-04 09:21 AM
Response to Reply #115
128. Sot on by Jackson
This a polite demurral held at arm's length by the mainstream. Since when did any real action like the march on Selma settle for a polite unofficial hearing composed of and for the choir?

In your face action should test the test. The absence of protest by the democrats is crippling in one way, liberating in another. Those protesting can easily be caught in the middle and trapped in inertia and irrelevance. Obviously this ain't the Ukraine, but then, there they HAD the support of DNC organizers.
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GetTheRightVote Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 07:00 PM
Response to Original message
118. William, he was there in attendance and so was I, I spoke with him
while trailing him to his car park at the side of the Capital.
It was great to finally have the opporunity to speak with him in person. He sounds very real and expressed a deep concern for the election even though he has been a Republican most of his life.
Brett of the Music rewards was with him and they were shooting off to another interview. Many press people spoke with him during the hearing as well. They did wish to speak at the hearing but Clint told me that they did not appear to wish for him to do so, it was strange, but he does seem very real. He indicated to me that the man to really speak with is a Mike Connelly who was the individual that the Wang people spoke with the most concerning the coding. Clint had told the FBI about Mike but he did not know if they had spoken with him yet. Clint even indicated that he would not be taking the reward of the $200,000 and he hoped that others would come forward with more news concerning the fraud and other coding plans that would be hatched by others. So the real question it seems is who is Mike Connelly and where is he today.
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ValleyGirl Donating Member (90 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 07:38 PM
Response to Reply #118
122. kick
I wonder who didn't want him to speak at the hearing and why?

Thanks for sharing this. :)
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Demoiselle Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 07:29 PM
Response to Original message
120. I"m flat out of hope, and get by these days by mostly ignoring the
news and by marveling at the astonishing stupidity of too many of my countrymen. But I did catch the tail end of the hearing...when they took questions from the floor... and I cried for the first time since November 2nd. So many good people putting their hearts on the line. I don't have any criticisms. All the people there...the Reps, the people lining up to speak, everybody---deserve better than the dangerous fools currently running the country. The only shred of faith I have left is that the damn thing HAD to be stolen, because I can't bear to accept the notion that we have become a majority stupid nation.
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googly Donating Member (801 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 07:47 PM
Response to Reply #120
125. I agree with you, no way this nation can elect moron, idiot for a
president. The election had to be stolen. There is just no other explanation how a dimwit like Bush** can defeat brilliant senator and prosecutor and Viet-Nam vet hero John Kerry.
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siddharta Donating Member (21 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 07:34 PM
Response to Original message
121. Wow, I'm new around here
I can't believe the real William River Pitt is "here" and asking "me" a question?

:yourock:

I heard you on Mike Malloy and agreed with your accessment of
John Conyers, that had to be the first time I didn't see eye
to eye with MM. I felt John Conyers gentle nature was being
"tested" by the people talking and talking and didn't like to
see him being dissed.
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terry4kerry Donating Member (58 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 07:41 PM
Response to Original message
123. I am really glad..
I am really glad that the C-Span channels are covering this topic. I watched the hearings yesterday and was impressed with much of forum, Bonifaz was great! However I was a little disappointed at the end segment when the audience was allowed to ask questions. I think it is very important to remember not to react too dramatically since, it is all too easy to assume that the citzens taking a stand are angry, emotional sore losers.
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googly Donating Member (801 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-04 07:44 PM
Response to Original message
124. The hearings have convinced me Kerry will be inaugurated on
Jan 21, 2005.
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KerryReallyWon Donating Member (297 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Dec-11-04 01:07 AM
Response to Original message
131. On our way to justice...
I feel we are finally moving in a way only John Conyers can take us.
Let us know when you talk to Curtis!
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thjay Donating Member (120 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Dec-11-04 01:18 AM
Response to Original message
133. I wish more people knew about the hearings
I know exactly what's going on because I read DU, Truthout and BuzzFlash but I don't know anyone else who is paying attention. I don't even feel comfortable talking to my Progressive minded friends and family. Even my husband thinks I'm obsessing. I think it's too painfull for most people to spend time thinking about.

Anyway thank you for your efforts. I'm feeling more confident that it's just a matter of days before this story starts spreading like wild fire.
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