Althouse: "Gov. Mitch Daniels is running for president."

September 10, 2010

"Gov. Mitch Daniels is running for president."

"Let's get real and start saying it."

Okay. I thought of a slogan, in the classic "I like Ike" style: I itch for Mitch. You like?

147 comments:

TMink said...: Kill the Rich for Mitch.

Trey; 9/10/10, 12:51 PM
TMink said...: Slap the biatch for Miatch.

Trey; 9/10/10, 12:52 PM
Peter Hoh said...: Inquiring minds want to know: Does he have more or less charisma than Tim Pawlenty?; 9/10/10, 12:59 PM
Hoosier Daddy said...: I itch for Mitch. You like?

They have a cream for that....

Actually the slogan here in Hoosierville is My Man Mitch.

Of course the liberals have another word for him the classy folks that they are.; 9/10/10, 1:00 PM
Anonymous said...: Depends on what and where you're itching.; 9/10/10, 1:00 PM
Hoosier Daddy said...: Inquiring minds want to know: Does he have more or less charisma than Tim Pawlenty?

Well he's not a complete dullsville but he's a wonk who makes tough decisions and while Obama edged out Indiana in 2008, Mitch crushed the vote which says a lot about how people here see how he's handled the state.; 9/10/10, 1:01 PM
sonicfrog said...: "I'm down with Daniels".

ver word: licketi; 9/10/10, 1:01 PM
Hoosier Daddy said...: Actually I think by 2012, enough people will be sick of 10% unemployment and a stagnet economy that we'll be looking for competence and accomplishment rather than charisma and totally awesome teleprompter skills.

If not then we will deserve exactly what we elect.; 9/10/10, 1:03 PM
Original Mike said...: "Mitch Daniels. We could do worse."

Really, we could. Much, much worse.; 9/10/10, 1:03 PM
garage mahal said...: Wasn't aware Daniels was arrested for pot. This guy might be alright.; 9/10/10, 1:05 PM
Anonymous said...: Do I like Mitch Daniels? I have no idea. He's one of those people whose name I've heard a lot, but nothing about him has ever stuck in my head. I can't come up with a picture of his face off the top of my head. I have no idea what he's done. Or not done. Or anything.

Guess I'll have to learn.; 9/10/10, 1:07 PM
MadisonMan said...: Gov. Mitch Daniels is running for president.

Well, except he isn't. Yet.

I itch for Mitch makes me think of fungus.

My Man Mitch is better than I'm Down with Daniels.; 9/10/10, 1:08 PM
AllenS said...: Don't be a bitch, vote for Mitch!; 9/10/10, 1:10 PM
Phil 314 said...: Sing along with Mitch?

(c'mon we need happy slogans such as
Its morning in America again.

You know as I watch that clip I can see Pres. Obama using a similar piece for his 2012 campaign:

"We saved more jobs than ever before in our country...

with interest rates at less than zero PLEASE BORROW SOME MONEY AND SPEND IT..

millions of families stuck.. er I mean owning their homes ...

this afternoon 7000 young men and men ...I mean couples will get married...

Why would we ever want to return to where we were, less than four short years ago"

Just a thought); 9/10/10, 1:16 PM
chickelit said...: I itch for Mitch

Blowing a smoke ring, Obama will counter:

"I'd rather fight than Mitch"; 9/10/10, 1:18 PM
AllenS said...: If you vote for Hill, you'll get cigared by Bill!; 9/10/10, 1:19 PM
Bruce Hayden said...: Don't think he has much of a chance in 2012. The Republicans tend to nominate known quantities, and most often those who have run before. So, my short list of those in serious contention are Romney, Palin, Huckleberry, and Gingrich. On the other hand, if someone wants to get the Republican nomination, they have to run first and get known. So, they have to run a decent campaign this next time, and then they might have a chance in 2016 (but less if another Republican wins in 2012).

Interestingly, the last well known Democrat to have won his first time as his party's nominee was LBJ. He was, by then President, and had been VP and Senate Majority Leader before that. But, then, Kennedy had made his name four years earlier. But since 1964, the Democrats who have won the Presidency have been pretty much unknown to the American public when they ran, and those who were decently well known, lost.

Interesting dynamic.; 9/10/10, 1:21 PM
Anonymous said...: No. It makes Mitch sound like a maggot-infested, dope-smoking, good time plastic banana smack-head.

I kinda like Crotch Rockets for Mitch.; 9/10/10, 1:23 PM
Chennaul said...: McDonnell from Virginia.

If Portman wins in Ohio, he could be a quality candidate.

If Whitman wins Cali and turns that around look out!

Palin should pale in comparison.

Hopefully after Obama experience and performance will become more valued.; 9/10/10, 1:32 PM
Peter Hoh said...: Bruce: my short list of those in serious contention are Romney, Palin, Huckleberry, and Gingrich.

Pawlenty wants to know who he has to screw to get your attention.; 9/10/10, 1:32 PM
Anonymous said...: "...I itch for Mitch makes me think of fungus."

Obama makes me think of ringworm. It's just harder to rhyme with Barack.; 9/10/10, 1:36 PM
garage mahal said...: I itch for Mitch

Better than "I itch from Mitch"; 9/10/10, 1:39 PM
GMay said...: "I itch for Mitch."

Sounds like you're having one of those not-so-fresh days.; 9/10/10, 1:40 PM
Peter Hoh said...: madawaskan: If Whitman wins Cali and turns that around look out!

If Whitman wins California, she takes office in January of 2011. Candidates have to start running for the presidential nomination by the third quarter of 2011.

If she turns California around between January and August, then, yeah.; 9/10/10, 1:42 PM
rcocean said...: The Republican's dream candidate. Bush I and Dole are too old, and Ford is dead. Plus, executive hair and wants to cut the capital gains tax.

Vote for Mitch -'cause Romney's too radical.; 9/10/10, 1:42 PM
Chennaul said...: If Mitch is you boyfriend:

Cure the Itch-

Ditch Mitch.

ps-you all get the feeling Althouse's heart just ain't into it?; 9/10/10, 1:42 PM
Lem Vibe Bandit said...: Mitch says republicans should shut up about social issues.

I don't know him from a light pole but he lost me there.; 9/10/10, 1:45 PM
Chennaul said...: peter-

Well-I'm thinking long term.

I don't think Obama loses next time.

Running without an incumbent is preferable.

Although, hell-it could be a gross miscalculation -I didn't think the House would be in play like it is now.

800 billion down the drain was kind of hard to foresee.; 9/10/10, 1:46 PM
rcocean said...: Maybe we can nominate Newt. He has all the qualifications Republicans look for:

1) Executive hair
2) Old white guy in a suit
3) Boring speaker
4) DC insider
5) No political success outside a safe (R) seat
6) Not a social conservative
7) High Name recognition
8) Likes rich guys.; 9/10/10, 1:46 PM
Chennaul said...: Lem-

Well he ran his-

I'm naive as hell underwear up the flagpole the other day.

When the Democrats are flailing-don't offer them a lifeline.

A lot of Republicans fall for that.

Democrats accuse them of not having solutions.

I'm sorry but I don't think in this economy too many potential voters are saying-"shucks I wish the Republicans had more ideas."

Mitch Daniels fell for that ruse.; 9/10/10, 1:51 PM
Issob Morocco said...: Mitch causes Dems to Twitch!; 9/10/10, 1:53 PM
Sisyphus said...: If Hillary had won, we could have had "Ditch the Bitch for Mitch." Too crude, but our politics have become more crude than that, these days.; 9/10/10, 1:55 PM
Prosqtor said...: Some folks (not me!) would say the Wisconsin witch has an itch for Mitch.; 9/10/10, 1:55 PM
campy said...: Switch to Mitch!; 9/10/10, 1:59 PM
X said...: Tired of the country going to the spaniels?
Vote for Mitch.; 9/10/10, 1:59 PM
Paddy O said...: If Whitman wins California (which I very much hope she does) she is going to get knocked around and de-souled by the California legislature, which is the real problem in California. The role of a Republican governor here is to make sure things are not as bad as they could be, until the time the gerrymandered districts change and races again become competitive and thus more likely won by moderates.

No one who wants to run for national office should even step foot in California in the meantime.; 9/10/10, 1:59 PM
Paddy O said...: Hitch yourself to Mitch. He understand the sitch.; 9/10/10, 2:02 PM
Chennaul said...: Crap good point Paddy O.

I had visions of a female Reagan going there for a minute.

Any chance the legislature-changes significantly?

Arrrrrrgh. I think I already know the answer.; 9/10/10, 2:05 PM
garage mahal said...: I twist for Mitch!; 9/10/10, 2:11 PM
Anonymous said...: Mitch has a problem with social conservatives, due to his "truce" comment on pro-life issues. Not that he wouldn't be an improvement, rather I don't see much enthusiasm for him unless he has a wealth of charm that's gone unnoticed. I expect he's not competitive for the GOP nomination given his lukewarm abortion stance. I prefer the unfiltered straight talking Gov. Christie, if given the choice.

now back to lurking ...; 9/10/10, 2:14 PM
Robert Cook said...: "Actually I think by 2012, enough people will be sick of 10% unemployment and a stagnet economy that we'll be looking for competence...."

The high unemployment rate--actually closer to 20%, according to some, who recognize the tricks used by government to show lower figures--is not a problem that will be remedied by a "competent" President--or a more competent President--as Obama is certainly "competent," if, sadly, a minion of Wall Street, (a primary source of many of the problems leading to our accelerating collapse).

As long as the corporate sector can continue reducing labor costs, taking the savings as profit, they will continue to send jobs south or overseas, where they can pay cents on the American payroll dollar.

What will be left for domestic workers will be what we largely have: lower paying service sector jobs.

We will see robust employment again in this country only when Americans are so beaten down by the corporate thugs that they will accept similar slave-wages as are considered living or semi-living wages abroad, or when Congress passes laws that provide positive and/or negative incentives for corporate employers to bring good (and well-paying) jobs and manufacturing back to America.

In short, we're fucked and will continue to be.; 9/10/10, 2:18 PM
Bob_R said...: Daniels/Christy. The pretty boys have done their worst. Time to vote for the bald guy and the fat guy.; 9/10/10, 2:18 PM
I'm Full of Soup said...: They say Americans are center-right politically.

So vote for Mitch- he's from Indiana and it does not get any more center-right than Indiana [if you don't believe me just look at a map of the USA].; 9/10/10, 2:19 PM
Bob_R said...: Vote Daniels - You've seen the damage that hair plugs can do.; 9/10/10, 2:21 PM
Prosqtor said...: What a humor site! "minion of wall street" Wow, these crazy Althouse commenters. Treacher has nothing on you, Robert Cook!

Wait. Oh. REALLY!

I think he was serious.; 9/10/10, 2:22 PM
Bruce Hayden said...: As long as the corporate sector can continue reducing labor costs, taking the savings as profit, they will continue to send jobs south or overseas, where they can pay cents on the American payroll dollar.

One problem with your suggestion of some sort of trade barriers is that we don't operate in a vacuum, and if we put up barriers (including providing incentives - which, of course, we have to pay for), then everyone else will too, around the world. And, so, we end up paying more for lesser products, instead of less for better products, just so that some unionized workers can continue making more than their work is worth. Meanwhile, GDP suffers because it implicitly takes into account the subsidies paid, as well as the higher prices charged - or, you could view it that we have fewer goods nationally as a result, and that is why GDP will suffer.

Pesky little thing - economic reality.; 9/10/10, 2:26 PM
A.W. said...: I have heard of women who said that they itch for bill clinton, but then they got special shampoo at the doctor's office and it went away.; 9/10/10, 2:27 PM
Anonymous said...: What will be left for domestic workers will be what we largely have: lower paying service sector jobs.

And yet, waiters in 2010 have cellphones and HDTVs, while auto workers in the 1960s were lucky if their TVs weren't B&W and they didn't rent their phones from Ma Bell. How'd that happen, I wonder?; 9/10/10, 2:30 PM
Bruce Hayden said...: Newt:
1) Executive hair
2) Old white guy in a suit
3) Boring speaker
4) DC insider
5) No political success outside a safe (R) seat
6) Not a social conservative
7) High Name recognition
8) Likes rich guys.

I think that he does inspire better than Romney, and maybe Huckleberry. Not as well as Palin. And the two of them attract different segments.

The high name recognition is the only real reason that he is taken the least bit seriously.

Yes, he isn't a social conservative, which right now may be to his advantage. Maybe harder to get the nomination, but easier to get elected.

What he is is a visionary and historian.

In any case though, you missed his biggest problems - his baggage and all his negatives. He just doesn't have the charisma to overcome those negatives, like Palin appears maybe to have.; 9/10/10, 2:32 PM
Trooper York said...: "As long as the corporate sector can continue reducing labor costs, taking the savings as profit, they will continue to send jobs south or overseas, where they can pay cents on the American payroll dollar."

The perfect illustration of your premise is the recent events regarding the Stella Doro cookie factory in New York. The union went on strike and evenutally got a compliant Democratic judge to let them win their court case.

Unfortunately the factory had moved to Ohio.

Score another one for the unions.; 9/10/10, 2:34 PM
MaggotAtBroad&Wall said...: Obama put us in the ditch
give the keys to ...
anybody else.; 9/10/10, 2:37 PM
Anonymous said...: How about"

"Let Mitch pitch, we need a reliever."; 9/10/10, 2:42 PM
jayne_cobb said...: While the other guys just moan and bitch
Here with answers is our guy Mitch; 9/10/10, 2:44 PM
Robert Cook said...: "Score another one for the unions."

Which is why we need a rebirth of the Wobblies. Moving the factory to Ohio is a lower-tech version of sending jobs overseas. The employers simply run away from paying decent wages to the people whose labor provides their profits.; 9/10/10, 2:45 PM
Lynne said...: I'm neutral re: Daniels, but-
I told my sweetheart the other day that, come next presidential election, the guy who shows up with the toolbox is the one who will win.
Average Americans are sick of charisma and hocus-pocus- they want someone who has a plan.

Oh, and the proper slogan should be:
Switch to Mitch. When times get tough, Americans break out the Daniels!
Straight up. No chaser.; 9/10/10, 2:46 PM
Lem Vibe Bandit said...: "Let Mitch pitch, we need a reliever."

I dont think so.

There was a Mitch Williams who blew two world series games against the Toronto Blue Jays in 93.; 9/10/10, 2:50 PM
traditionalguy said...: Mitch has all the good qualities of Reese Witherspoon. He's a Presbyterian with a good brain and a nice smile and a cool demeanor...and he's about five feet tall. The voters won't see anything special in Mitch other than that he is a smart white boy. Why waste the star power of Palin that can win going away against the Obama magic to bet the farm on Mitch winning the 2012 election? My guess is that Mitch is a place holder for Jeb Bush's run for 2016...and that means Mitch will have to take a dive for the Johnny Friendly/Bush Clan. He can't be a contender without the Bush Clan's approval.; 9/10/10, 2:51 PM
ricpic said...: Another warmup act for SARAH!; 9/10/10, 2:52 PM
AllenS said...: Ditch the Kenyan, vote for Mitch!; 9/10/10, 2:53 PM
AllenS said...: Get rich, vote for Mitch!; 9/10/10, 2:55 PM
MadisonMan said...: the guy who shows up

Unless it's a girl.; 9/10/10, 2:56 PM
Issob Morocco said...: Trooper York, Stella D'Oro cookie issue was not the way you set it up as I am keenly aware of the details of that merger. It went to Ohio based on other factors.; 9/10/10, 2:58 PM
Fen said...: Comrade: Moving the factory to Ohio is a lower-tech version of sending jobs overseas. The employers simply run away from paying decent wages to the people whose labor provides their profits.

New idea for reality TV:

we put a liberal in charge of a business, we tie up all his wealth and assets in said business. Then we unleash the unions and regulators and inspectors and attorneys.; 9/10/10, 2:58 PM
Cedarford said...: peter hoh said...
Inquiring minds want to know: Does he have more or less charisma than Tim Pawlenty?
+++++++++++++++++++
Hoosier Daddy said...
Actually I think by 2012, enough people will be sick of 10% unemployment and a stagnet economy that we'll be looking for competence and accomplishment rather than charisma and totally awesome teleprompter skills.

If not then we will deserve exactly what we elect.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++
Yep. And the Republicans have to come up with something far better than the McCain-Palin ticket. McCain was awful, and Palin was election voting booth poison for Independents.; 9/10/10, 3:00 PM
Original Mike said...: Why waste the star power of Palin that can win going away against the Obama magic to bet the farm on Mitch winning the 2012 election?

Maybe because we've learned (Oh, God, I hope we have) that after the winning, comes the governing.; 9/10/10, 3:01 PM
Robert Cook said...: "And yet, waiters in 2010 have cellphones and HDTVs, while auto workers in the 1960s were lucky if their TVs weren't B&W and they didn't rent their phones from Ma Bell. How'd that happen, I wonder?"

First, most tvs until the later 60s were black and white and many programs were still broadcast in B & W, as well, so color television was an unnecessary extravagance, as 3D tvs are today, or HD TVs were a few years ago;
Second, renting their phones from Ma Bell was a good deal...they could have their phones replaced without extra charge anytime,(which was seldom, as the phones were made to last). In fact, I still rent a land line at home from some company that used to be ATT.

But, as to your larger point: people lived within their means back then, and didn't buy what they couldn't afford. I still remember a friend in high school--in 1973--buying some clothing on layaway! Today, people obtain everything on credit. They don't actually own much of what they possess, but are indentured servants to the credit card companies. "Leased" cars are an overt example of this reality.

This is not an illustration of how much better off people are today, but how much worse off we are.; 9/10/10, 3:06 PM
lemondog said...: Obama makes me think of ringworm. It's just harder to rhyme with Barack.

Obama's term
Was like ringworm
But don't just bitch
Fight the itch
And vote for Mitch; 9/10/10, 3:13 PM
Triangle Man said...: Having a first name that rhymes with "bitch" is never going to provide a net marketing benefit.; 9/10/10, 3:16 PM
Rocco said...: He is a Junior.

Which means we are discussing whether or not to vote for the Son of a Mitch.; 9/10/10, 3:16 PM
Mitch H. said...: I hate it.

But then, if we get a President Mitch, I'm gonna start insisting people call me "Charlie" instead. This whole thread just makes me twitchy, I can't imagine what an entire presidential campaign & presidential term of office will do to my state of mind.

Makes me wonder how the three or four Baracks in the country feel about the present resident.; 9/10/10, 3:17 PM
Anonymous said...: But, as to your larger point: people lived within their means back then, and didn't buy what they couldn't afford.

First, let me just say I'm well aware of the history of technology, Cookie. Thanks, though.

But as to your larger point: there is still a significant portion of the population that lives within their means. They're called conservatives.; 9/10/10, 3:17 PM
ricpic said...: ...Americans are so beaten down by the corporate thugs...

Robert Cook and his ilk have delivered us from the corporate thugs into the loving arms of their fellow socialist thugs. Good times!; 9/10/10, 3:25 PM
Original Mike said...: But as to your larger point: there is still a significant portion of the population that lives within their means. They're called conservatives.

Yep. I still use the layaway plan. My own personal one. I wait until I have the money until I buy something.; 9/10/10, 3:25 PM
Chennaul said...: Oh gawd-I've got his campaign song-

Nazareth-Hair of the Daniels,erh Dog; 9/10/10, 3:30 PM
garage mahal said...: But as to your larger point: there is still a significant portion of the population that lives within their means. They're called conservatives.

Not in Congress. Every Senate Republican voted against PAYGO.; 9/10/10, 3:34 PM
Robert Cook said...: "But as to your larger point: there is still a significant portion of the population that lives within their means. They're called conservatives."

Cites, please.; 9/10/10, 3:37 PM
traditionalguy said...: Original Mike...Governing, do you mean the skills shown by Bush I--Clinton I--Bush II--almost Clinton II, yet Obama--soon coming Bush III? We first need a conservative elected, and then hide and watch to see how she governs. Most voters are not old enough to have seen an alive and well Conservative President.; 9/10/10, 3:37 PM
Anonymous said...: Cites, please.

California. Texas.; 9/10/10, 3:38 PM
Original Mike said...: Not in Congress.

Very few Republicans in the Senate are conservative.; 9/10/10, 3:39 PM
Phil 314 said...: After Cookie's first post I was going to reply:

shorter version; Workers of the World Unite!

And Damn if he didn't beat me to it with this:

Which is why we need a rebirth of the Wobblies.

Wow.; 9/10/10, 3:40 PM
Chennaul said...: Of course in this lyric:

Heart breaker, soul shaker
Ive been told about you
Steamroller, midnight stroller
What they've been saying must be true

Bridge:

Red hot mama
Velvet charmer
Times come to pay your dues.

You would have to change "red hot mama" to-

Barack Obama; 9/10/10, 3:41 PM
lemondog said...: This whole thread just makes me twitchy,

If you feel twitchy
Vote for Mitchy

But if you look gnarly
Than vote for Charley

Wiki on Daniels

Born in Monongahela, Pennsylvania. Maternal grandparents Syrian immigrants.

Sounds like good ole American mix.; 9/10/10, 3:41 PM
Robert Cook said...: "Robert Cook and his ilk have delivered us from the corporate thugs into the loving arms of their fellow socialist thugs. Good times!"

No, we're still in the iron embrace of the corporate thugs.

The more ignorant have been deluded into believing Obama is a "socialist," but saying it over and over doesn't make it so, and brother, it ain't so. Obama is a servant of the wealthy and a facilitator for their objectives, as his predecessors have been.; 9/10/10, 3:42 PM
Original Mike said...: Most voters are not old enough to have seen an alive and well Conservative President.

I am, alas. But my conceern with Palin is not her conservative intincts but her competence. I have yet to see the intellect necessary to be a competent President. There's a lot of time yet, so maybe it will become apparent. But so far, not so much.

Daniels, on the other hand, from what little bit I know (and I'll be the first to admit that ain't much) actually looks like he's done a good job in Indiana.; 9/10/10, 3:45 PM
Chennaul said...: And w/ this lyric-

Talkin jivey, poison ivy
You aint gonna cling to me
Man taker, born faker
I aint so blind I can't see

go ahead and say it Cookie....; 9/10/10, 3:45 PM
Original Mike said...: You gotta be fast around here, C3.; 9/10/10, 3:46 PM
Robert Cook said...: "California. Texas."

Meaningless response.

California, by the way, is broke.; 9/10/10, 3:48 PM
Original Mike said...: California, by the way, is broke.

Don't you think that's his point?; 9/10/10, 3:50 PM
ricpic said...: Cookie awaits the return of Uncle Joe in American form. Then let the much deserved and much anticipated killing of class enemies begin! Oh yes, Cookie dreams rich red blood filled dreams.; 9/10/10, 3:51 PM
Automatic_Wing said...: Second, renting their phones from Ma Bell was a good deal...they could have their phones replaced without extra charge anytime,(which was seldom, as the phones were made to last).

Um...OK, doesn't the second part of your little ode to Ma Bell refudiate the first part? If the phone's not going to break, renting it isn't a good deal, you end up paying a lot more than if you'd just bought the phone. Those little wiring insurance plans are the same way, phone wires don't just go bad so paying $5 a month for years just on the off chance a mouse chews through your phone line is a terribly bad deal.

In fact, I still rent a land line at home from some company that used to be ATT.

If you want a land line, you have to "rent" the service (though I don't see why you'd want a land line if you have decent cell service at home). But renting the phone instrument is not a good idea under any circumstances.

But, as to your larger point: people lived within their means back then, and didn't buy what they couldn't afford. I still remember a friend in high school--in 1973--buying some clothing on layaway! Today, people obtain everything on credit.

Of course, layaway is just another form of credit, and one that's not advantageous to the consumer. That's because the retailer starts getting your money before you start getting your goods. There's a reason no one uses layaway anymore. It sucks.

They don't actually own much of what they possess, but are indentured servants to the credit card companies. "Leased" cars are an overt example of this reality.

And yet, you were just extolling the wonders of "leased" telephones a few paragraphs ago. Strange.

This is not an illustration of how much better off people are today, but how much worse off we are.

It's mostly an illustration of how you don't understand anything about economics. No wonder you're a commie.; 9/10/10, 3:52 PM
Anonymous said...: Don't you think that's his point?

That's just his way of sticking his fingers in his ears, closing his eyes, rocking back and forth and saying "LALALALALALALA."; 9/10/10, 3:53 PM
Robert Cook said...: "Yep. I still use the layaway plan. My own personal one. I wait until I have the money until I buy something."

So do I. I saved for nearly three years to buy my Mac Pro and 30" Cinema Display. I deferred my gratification to save myself exorbitant credit card interest and in the interim the products were improved a couple of times and the prices reduced. I paid off the credit card bill immediately once I received it, and paid not a cent of interest. A win all around.

(In fact, I have never let a credit card bill go partially unpaid, but always pay each bill in full the day I receive them. But then, I am frugal and prudent in my use of credit cards and in my expenditures generally.)

I'm not a conservative.; 9/10/10, 3:54 PM
Anonymous said...: Obama is a servant of the wealthy and a facilitator for their objectives, as his predecessors have been.

Oh, I completely agree! Wealthy folks like Sidney & Beatrice Webb, and George B. Shaw.; 9/10/10, 3:56 PM
rcocean said...: Why go for Mitch when we could nominate another Bush? I mean what could go wrong? Jeb's like George H.W Bush, and George Bush Jr. only more so. He's even more Bushier. More moderate and loves illegal aliens even more than W.

Let's turn the clock back to 2008, 'cause we're missing our Bush.; 9/10/10, 3:57 PM
garage mahal said...: Very few Republicans in the Senate are conservative.

All Dems voted for PAYGO. The reason Repubs didn't, in which most conservatives I believe also agree, is that any tax cuts would have to be paid for.; 9/10/10, 3:59 PM
Anonymous said...: I saved for nearly three years to buy my Mac Pro and 30" Cinema Display.

Class traitor. Don't you know they're built by workers in China, who stole their manufacturing jobs by undercutting unionized Americans?; 9/10/10, 3:59 PM
Anonymous said...: All Dems voted for PAYGO.

And then promptly ignored it. And then pitched a fit when Jim Bunning tried to hold them to it.; 9/10/10, 4:01 PM
Robert Cook said...: "Don't you think that's his point?"

How so? California is a conservative state.; 9/10/10, 4:01 PM
Anonymous said...: How so? California is a conservative state.

Oh! My mistake, Cookie! I didn't understand we were talking about bizarro California!; 9/10/10, 4:04 PM
Calypso Facto said...: garage said: "Not in Congress. Every Senate Republican voted against PAYGO."

As if PAYGO stopped anybody from spending anything recently....; 9/10/10, 4:08 PM
Original Mike said...: All Dems voted for PAYGO.

And then promptly ignored it. And then pitched a fit when Jim Bunning tried to hold them to it.

Yeah, I'm sorry garage, but I am not impressed with the Democrat's fealty to fiscal restraint.; 9/10/10, 4:08 PM
Original Mike said...: California is a conservative state.

Color me speechless.; 9/10/10, 4:09 PM
Scott M said...: Cites, please.

Me, for one. I balance my accounts every single morning and keep a very close eye on my HSA. An HSA which your boy's power grab will effectively put an end to.

Do you not live within your means? Do you not plan on x amount per month income versus y per month expenses and make sure you're at a positive balance at the end? That's a very fiscally conservative move. Anyone that balances their checkbook and keeps it balanced is doing the same thing.

Remember, please, that the vast majority of home owners DID NOT default on their mortgages. Of the very large number of people that I know, very, very few of them have ever, this decade or not, declared bankruptcy.

Yes, people buy too much on credit mainly because there is no incentive to save besides, "one should" and the ease of obtaining credit in the past decade or so.; 9/10/10, 4:10 PM
rcocean said...: Anybody but Palin. Who wants someone who has charisma, speaking skills,conservative values, and the common touch? Ugh.

Better nominate somone liked by the DC insiders and the New York Times. Can McCain run again? Maybe we can do it right this time and get Joe Liebermann as his VP. Now that's a ticket intelligent Republicans can support!

Or hell, let's just go for Mitch McConnell and Lindsey Graham. Sigh....; 9/10/10, 4:10 PM
AllenS said...: If you vote for Obama, we'll talk about yo mama!; 9/10/10, 4:11 PM
Robert Cook said...: "Class traitor. Don't you know they're built by workers in China, who stole their manufacturing jobs by undercutting unionized Americans?"

Unfortunately, our present circumstances make us all complicit in the devastation of the domestic job market.

As far as I know, there are no computers made domestically.; 9/10/10, 4:13 PM
Anonymous said...: As far as I know, there are no computers made domestically.

If you weren't a splitter, you'd do without. Scab.; 9/10/10, 4:16 PM
Irene said...: "Let's get real and start saying it."

Althouse said it first:

"There's also this way for a (future) President to look good with a bike."

Biker's itch?; 9/10/10, 4:18 PM
Robert Cook said...: "Scab."

As I say, we're all complicit.; 9/10/10, 4:23 PM
chickelit said...: Cedarford wrote: Yep. And the Republicans have to come up with something far better than the McCain-Palin ticket.

As a pol, Mitch Daniels completely lacks totem. I'll bet you love that.; 9/10/10, 4:28 PM
MadisonMan said...: but always pay each bill in full the day I receive them.

It's silly to pay the bill the day you get it.

I usually pay the last day it's due. I bet I've made 5 cents in interest this year alone because of that.; 9/10/10, 4:29 PM
garage mahal said...: And then promptly ignored it. And then pitched a fit when Jim Bunning tried to hold them to it.

Bunning voted against PAYGO, [yes, gall] and unemployment benefits are emergency spending and not subject to PAYGO rules.; 9/10/10, 4:32 PM
garage mahal said...: As if PAYGO stopped anybody from spending anything recently....

Sounds like with Voinovich's vote the jobs bill will pass. Under PAYGO rules, not adding a cent to the deficit. Honestly, what was the last thing Republicans passed that was paid for?; 9/10/10, 4:38 PM
KCFleming said...: I think a Magic 8 Ball would do well against Obama in 2012.

The debate would be a draw.; 9/10/10, 4:39 PM
KCFleming said...: I take it back. The Magic 8 Ball has better answers.

M8B, will the economy improve under your plan?
Signs point to yes.

M8B, will you let the Muslims build at Ground Zero?
My reply is no.

M8B, will you repeal Obamacare?
It is decidedly so.

M8B, do you have any skeletons in your closet?
Reply hazy, try again.; 9/10/10, 4:48 PM
David said...: I hear there's a new group:

Spaniels for Daniel.

They talk about him like a dog.; 9/10/10, 4:55 PM
David said...: He looks good on a bike.

But he's gotta lose the comb
over.; 9/10/10, 4:59 PM
David said...: "Let Mitch pitch, we need a reliever."

Wordiness!

"Let Mitch pitch" and stop right there.; 9/10/10, 5:01 PM
Calypso Facto said...: garages asked: "what was the last thing Republicans passed that was paid for?"

Well, technically the last time ANY Congress passed a budget that didn't increase the federal debt was during the Hoover administration. But recent efforts have really made past generations look unimaginative....; 9/10/10, 5:03 PM
David said...: Republicans are gonna have a bunch of good candidates. And an even bigger bunch of candidates.

About 20 possibles.

Romney is Toast.

Palin has proved those who said she should not have resigned the govship to be wrong.

She's like poison ivy--an itch you gotta scratch, even though they say not to.; 9/10/10, 5:05 PM
rcocean said...: "Romney is Toast."

Ha. You don't know Republicans. Remember 2008? McCain spent 8 years stabbing Bush in the back and "reaching across the aisle" - so what did the Republicans do? They nominated him for POTUS. Why? Name recognition.

All the dopey Romney voters will vote for him AGAIN and another 20-30 percent wil think -"OMG I can't vote for McCain - I'll vote for Romney - he's so moderate and I remember his name".

The man's a shoe-in. Unless Mitch runs.; 9/10/10, 5:15 PM
Peter Hoh said...: And yet, waiters in 2010 have cellphones and HDTVs, while auto workers in the 1960s were lucky if their TVs weren't B&W and they didn't rent their phones from Ma Bell. How'd that happen, I wonder?

Didn't everyone rent their phones in the 1960s?

As for how it happened, production of things like televisions and telephones moved overseas.

In the 1960s, hese kinds of goods were made in the USA, by people who could afford to support a family on one income.

Are there any phones or TVs still made in America?; 9/10/10, 5:30 PM
Anonymous said...: Robert Cook is asking for citations above. That is so fucking funny.

Hey, Robert, did you ever find the citations for the U.S. law allowing anyone to arrest the president for war crimes?

Also, it's hilarious to hear you extolling how great things were back in the day when people were not allowed to have credit. Yeah, man, that was great. And those land lines are much better than cell phones because of leasing. Or something. You are the biggest tool in the world.; 9/10/10, 5:57 PM
Phil 314 said...: Here you go Cookie

I think this will fit your politics and probably encapsulates your sentiments about Presidential candidates.; 9/10/10, 6:08 PM
The Scythian said...: Emphasizing the importance of voting for Governor Daniels in 2012:

"A Mitch in time saves nine!"

Mobilizing the vital Republican Wiccan vote:

"I'm a witch for Mitch!"

Mobilizing undead wizards (and players of Dungeons & Dragons):

"I'm a lich for Mitch!"

Mobilizing the ex-con vote:

"I'm Mitch's bitch!"

Mobilizing the owners of retro boutiques:

"Dealers of Kitsch for Mitch!"

And, of course, mobilizing the Canine-American vote...

"Spaniels for Daniels!"

However, if it ever comes out that Governor Daniels gave Leona Helmsley a rash, his political future might be tarnished by a headline that reads:

"Mitch Gives Itch to Rich Bitch"; 9/10/10, 6:15 PM
The Scythian said...: Shoot, someone beat me to the Spaniels for Daniels one! Sorry, David!; 9/10/10, 6:20 PM
Cedarford said...: David - "Palin has proved those who said she should not have resigned the govship to be wrong."

Why is that? Because she resigned and is making lots of money off her name?

And that will make Independents and moderate Republicans and Dems think she is highly qualified to therefore be President??
She is another Jesse Jackson - absolutely beloved by the extreme wing of their Party, basking in the rapture of their charisma and constant media attention.....

and utterly unelectable.

And also sharing the sentiment of their worshippers - that "'ol Jesse /'ol Sarah sure tick off all those so-called smart people that wasted their time in lower offices that Jesse/Sarah knew were beneath them". With the reason to vote for them "Just to show The Man/college-educated smarty pants elites" what a person with "street smarts/hockey Mom wisdom" can do.

Same phenomenon. 20 years apart. Sarah is just in her ubquititous "on every TV show, radio, pushing her books" money-making phase Jesse had.; 9/10/10, 6:45 PM
Bender said...: NFW does Mitch Truce Daniels ever get the nomination.; 9/10/10, 7:11 PM
chickelit said...: Cedarford wrote: She is another Jesse Jackson - absolutely beloved by the extreme wing of their Party, basking in the rapture of their charisma and constant media attention.....

Sullivan has warmed his throne up nicely for you Cedarford. He's saving it for you...; 9/10/10, 7:55 PM
Robert Cook said...: "...it's hilarious to hear you extolling how great things were back in the day when people were not allowed to have credit...."

In general, people were better off when they lived within their means and did not buy things they could not afford, and our society was better off for it, too, yes.; 9/10/10, 8:48 PM
LonewackoDotCom said...: For those who aren't lightweights and who actually care about policy, I discussed Mitch Daniels and immigration at the link. It's not the best because I didn't have much to go one, but it was good enough to get a link from Ann Coulter.; 9/10/10, 9:37 PM
Anonymous said...: In general, people were better off when they lived within their means and did not buy things they could not afford, and our society was better off for it, too, yes.

Dumb ass -- Let's think this through. What's the very worst thing that can happen to someone buys a good on credit that they cannot actually afford?

Jesus Christ do I hate commies like you who do not understand economics or basic social contract.

By the way, have you ever told us the law that allows any entity to put any U.S. president in jail for any war?; 9/10/10, 9:39 PM
Anonymous said...: Wacko -- Nobody outside of a couple states really gives a shit about immigration. It's certainly not going to have any bearing on the 2012 election, unless Tom Tancredo runs. In which case it will have a bearing on Tom Tancredo's failed candidacy.; 9/10/10, 9:40 PM
Ralph L said...: In the primary season:
Keep your Mitt off my Mitch!

Not that there's anything wrong with that.; 9/10/10, 10:03 PM
Anonymous said...: As I have said before. Mitch is great, for 2016.

No one in the GOP has a chance. No one. Don't waste your time, energy, or money.

Obama and Biden will win in 2012, most easily, like taking a candy from a baby.; 9/10/10, 10:27 PM
Anonymous said...: America's Politico was pumping Hoover in 1932 and Carter in 1980, folks. I'm not sure what her sad, sorry agenda is, but I would certainly like to see better commentary, a glimmer of reasoning, and more than one trick from this commenter.

The glimmer of reasoning would be especially thoughtful. Thank you.; 9/10/10, 10:36 PM
traditionalguy said...: It feel that it is an honor to the Althouse Blog to have America's Politico assigned here as our very own Tokyo Rose/Axis Sally source of encouragement.; 9/10/10, 10:45 PM
rcocean said...: "Lonewacko" is a Moby. That's why he calls himself "wacko". I know its hard for you Southern boys to understand, but when someone calls themselves crazy (aka Wacko) they're telling you don't pay attention.; 9/10/10, 11:00 PM
Anonymous said...: If Wacko is a moby, he is the best and most awesome, most sophisticated moby ever, and I salute his brilliance.; 9/10/10, 11:05 PM
jungatheart said...: 7M:
"If Wacko is a moby, he is the best and most awesome, most sophisticated moby ever, and I salute his brilliance."

I concur. I think he's on the level.; 9/11/10, 1:39 AM
jungatheart said...: Of all the one given, I think 'Let Mitch Pitch' is the best.; 9/11/10, 1:43 AM
chickelit said...: Deborah:
A propos to your hint: link; 9/11/10, 2:17 AM
showbiz111 said...: "Vote Along With Mitch"
If its Hillary as Dem Nominee:

"Vote For Mitch, Not the B---h"

"Damn It's Daniels, Full Speed Ahead"

"Mitch, I'm not your Father's Republican"

"A Mitch Made In Heaven"

"M.D., Just What The Doctor Ordered"; 9/11/10, 8:52 AM
Anonymous said...: In the 1960s, these kinds of goods were made in the USA, by people who could afford to support a family on one income.

Yes. They could support a family on one income. At a lower standard of living. For a shorter lifespan.

God, you people are dolts.; 9/11/10, 9:29 AM
demobl said...: He isn't the most charasmatic guy, but he loves riding motorcycles and has an impeccable ability to relate to everyone. He is very personable, even staying with strangers in their homes on campaign tours. I interned with at the state house in Indy two years ago and was in a couple meetings with him, truly a neat guy to listen to.

Regarding slogans, My Man Mitch has been affective in Indiana. Ask any resident and almost all will recognize it. During the 2008 campaign he rolled out Mi Amigo Mitch to relate to the hispanic population. Kind of catchy when you hear it enough! Of course the opposition has the obvious "Ditch Mitch" slogan, but nObama is pretty easy too!

I really really hope Mitch runs in 2012. He is the type of leader this country needs.; 9/11/10, 10:16 AM
Robert Cook said...: "In the 1960s, these kinds of goods were made in the USA, by people who could afford to support a family on one income."

"Yes. They could support a family on one income. At a lower standard of living. For a shorter lifespan.

God, you people are dolts."

9/11/10 9:29 AM

Do you suggest that people's lives in the 1960s were worse than today? That family lives where one parent could stay home and attend to the children were worse than today, where many children are latch-key children? That the ability to buy a modest home on one salary was a worse circumstance than buying overlarge, overvalued, overpriced homes today, requiring two salaries, (and often two or more mortgages along the way)? That goods being made in the USA, thus providing employment, was worse than today, where virtually all goods are made abroad by non-American labor, thus ensuring continuing high (and rising) unemployment?

How do you define "lower standard of living?" By the number of big, wasteful shitty things people can accumulate? By the amount of debt one is slave to?

"Shorter lifespan?" Ha. The 60s were hardly ancient history, and most adults were not dropping dead at 40, or even 50. Average life expectancy includes infant mortality rates, and as more children survive childhood, (or rather, as fewer children die), the average life expectancy will rise, even if adults do not live any longer on average than in the past.

It's rich, that those who fulminate against the government living beyond its means will huff and puff about much better off we citizens are today, who must work--those of us who are employed--harder and longer to buy and maintain a home, where our lives are littered with stuff, stuff bought not with money we have now but with money we will have in the future, thus making us, in a true sense, long term wage slaves.

Knock yourselves out; your waking arguments aren't any less brainless.; 9/11/10, 10:48 AM
LonewackoDotCom said...: It's pretty hilarious how dumb some of Althouse's commenters are, and it's not at all surprising the dumbest of the dumb showed up after she began her pandering to the tea partiers.

Here's a list of the topics I've covered in thousands of posts since 2002. What I do has an effect on the bad guys and at the same time it's miles ahead of what most r/w bloggers and 'partiers are capable of. Thus the smears.; 9/11/10, 4:34 PM