Saturday, September 5, 2009
Monday, August 31, 2009
Daytime Emmy Awards
A beautiful 30something is afraid that her looks have tarnished. Suitors no longer clamor for her attention the way they once did. Eventually, however, as her mid-life crises raged on, she was rescued from the throes of obscurity by a knight in shining armor.
Sadly, it's not a melodramatic storyline from one of daytime's eight remaining soap operas. It's the story of the 36th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, the highest honor bestowed upon daytime entertainment.
For much of the year, the talk wasn't about who would win a Daytime Emmy, but rather if there would be a Daytime Emmy telecast. Because of economic reasons, CBS opted out of broadcasting this year's awards ceremony. ABC had a chance to step in, but it, too, passed. Even SOAPnet, the all-things-soaps cable channel, declined.
One of the big winners last night, Christian LeBlanc from Y&R
Rather than being relegated to someone's living room, Associated Television International stepped in with a new vision for the Daytime Emmy telecast. That vision included something that seemed improbable just five years ago: for the first time in its history, the Daytime Emmys would not broadcast on one of the three major networks.
The Emmy ceremony was also shifted from the posh Kodak Theater in Hollywood to the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Los Angeles. In perhaps an unintentional and ironic bit of symbolism, the Orpheum, once one of four vibrant venues built during the height of 1920s vaudeville, sits on the same street as three other shuttered theaters.
Though the mood may have been more somber than in years past, daytime's bright stars -- from the world of soaps, children's television, talk shows, court shows, and game shows -- turned out to honor those nominated as the best in daytime television. The event was hosted by Grammy winner Vanessa Williams, who on the surface has no ties to daytime television, but who says she watches talk shows and court shows in her dressing room, and admits to having been a regular viewer of soaps "way back in the day."
As the term "changes" repeatedly linked itself to all Emmy discussion, the night also saw its share of surprises. There were five first-time winners, some exuberant exclamations from the stage, and seemingly overdue recognition for a daytime drama series that is believed to be the most-watched program in the world.
Sadly, it's not a melodramatic storyline from one of daytime's eight remaining soap operas. It's the story of the 36th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, the highest honor bestowed upon daytime entertainment.
For much of the year, the talk wasn't about who would win a Daytime Emmy, but rather if there would be a Daytime Emmy telecast. Because of economic reasons, CBS opted out of broadcasting this year's awards ceremony. ABC had a chance to step in, but it, too, passed. Even SOAPnet, the all-things-soaps cable channel, declined.
One of the big winners last night, Christian LeBlanc from Y&R
Rather than being relegated to someone's living room, Associated Television International stepped in with a new vision for the Daytime Emmy telecast. That vision included something that seemed improbable just five years ago: for the first time in its history, the Daytime Emmys would not broadcast on one of the three major networks.
The Emmy ceremony was also shifted from the posh Kodak Theater in Hollywood to the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Los Angeles. In perhaps an unintentional and ironic bit of symbolism, the Orpheum, once one of four vibrant venues built during the height of 1920s vaudeville, sits on the same street as three other shuttered theaters.
Though the mood may have been more somber than in years past, daytime's bright stars -- from the world of soaps, children's television, talk shows, court shows, and game shows -- turned out to honor those nominated as the best in daytime television. The event was hosted by Grammy winner Vanessa Williams, who on the surface has no ties to daytime television, but who says she watches talk shows and court shows in her dressing room, and admits to having been a regular viewer of soaps "way back in the day."
As the term "changes" repeatedly linked itself to all Emmy discussion, the night also saw its share of surprises. There were five first-time winners, some exuberant exclamations from the stage, and seemingly overdue recognition for a daytime drama series that is believed to be the most-watched program in the world.
Game Time Decisions
Preseason game 3 notes
Brian Swaw
Preseason game 3 notes
18 teams played their all-important 3rd preseason game this past weekend. Here are a few of our observations of player performances and fantasy impact:
•Chiefs QB Matt Cassel was pulled from last night's game after just 3 plays with a leg injury. He was sacked by Seahawks DT Brandon Mebane and fell awkwardly. X-rays came back negative, but no further updates have been given. Don't expect to hear much about it either. Chiefs GM Scott Pioli comes from the Bill Belichick camp.
•Browns QBs Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson split reps with the 1st-team offense for the first 3 quarters of last night's game against the Titans. Quinn finished 11 of 15 for 128 yards and a TD pass to WR Braylon Edwards. Meanwhile, Anderson completed 7 of 11 passes for 77 yards. Both guys played well, but looked for HC Eric Mangini to name Quinn his starter early this week.
•Lions RB Kevin Smith rushed 8 times for 50 yards and added 3 catches for 33 yards in just 1 quarter of action yesterday afternoon against the Colts. Smith looked powerful, breaking tackles and pushing piles for a few extra yards. It looks like Detroit's offense will revolve around Smith, not Calvin Johnson. Smith continues to be undervalued with an ADP in the late 3rd round
•Giants RB Brandon Jacobs left the game to get an x-ray on his arm but returned shortly after. He finished the night with 6 carries for 24 yards, plus an 8-yard TD reception. Just a little reminder that this guy is injury-prone. But he's got top-5 upside if he can play a full 16-game season.
•Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck's 1st pass of the night was picked off by CB Brandon Flowers and returned for a TD. But Hass proceeded to shred the Chiefs secondary. He finished the night 19 of 25 for 216 yards and 2 TDs in just over 1 half of action. His TDs went to WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh and TE John Carlson. Hasselbeck has looked excellent this preseason. And more importantly, he's looked healthy. He's a borderline QB1.
•Colts TE Dallas Clark caught 6 passes for 63 yards and a TD in just over 1 half of action this yesterday. To say Clark and QB Peyton Manning were on the same page would be a serious understatement. Clark is the #2 option in one of the best passing games in the NFL
•Panthers WR Steve Smith appeared in his 1st preseason game of 2009 last night against the Ravens. He finished with 2 catches for 37 yards and looked 100% healthy. Smith was targeted 4 times. He can be safely drafted as a WR1.
•Lions QBs Daunte Culpepper and Matt Stafford played equally well in the team's 3rd preseason game yesterday afternoon. Culpepper got the start and finished 7 of 12 for 67 yards and 1 TD on 2 drives. Stafford played 4 series and completed 13 of 19 attempts for 160 yards and 1 INT. We wouldn't be surprised if the Lions waited until after their final preseason game before naming a starter.
•Ravens RB Ray Rice struggled a bit on the ground last night against the Panthers. He rushed 10 times for just 32 yards. But he also caught 8 balls for 67 yards. Most of the receptions came on check-downs, and Rice did an excellent job picking up chunks of yardage after the catch. Baltimore is definitely gearing up to make Rice the focal point of its offense. However, it's worth noting that RBs LeRon McClain and Willis McGahee combined for 4 carries inside the Panthers' 10, while Rice didn't receive any.
•Raiders RB Darren McFadden had an uneventful afternoon against the Saints. He rushed 3 times for 0 yards and caught 3 balls for 21 yards. The Raiders were smoked 45-7, and the offense never got in rhythm. We're just hoping this performance drops McFaddens's ADP a bit. We still love him as a RB2
Brian Swaw
Preseason game 3 notes
18 teams played their all-important 3rd preseason game this past weekend. Here are a few of our observations of player performances and fantasy impact:
•Chiefs QB Matt Cassel was pulled from last night's game after just 3 plays with a leg injury. He was sacked by Seahawks DT Brandon Mebane and fell awkwardly. X-rays came back negative, but no further updates have been given. Don't expect to hear much about it either. Chiefs GM Scott Pioli comes from the Bill Belichick camp.
•Browns QBs Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson split reps with the 1st-team offense for the first 3 quarters of last night's game against the Titans. Quinn finished 11 of 15 for 128 yards and a TD pass to WR Braylon Edwards. Meanwhile, Anderson completed 7 of 11 passes for 77 yards. Both guys played well, but looked for HC Eric Mangini to name Quinn his starter early this week.
•Lions RB Kevin Smith rushed 8 times for 50 yards and added 3 catches for 33 yards in just 1 quarter of action yesterday afternoon against the Colts. Smith looked powerful, breaking tackles and pushing piles for a few extra yards. It looks like Detroit's offense will revolve around Smith, not Calvin Johnson. Smith continues to be undervalued with an ADP in the late 3rd round
•Giants RB Brandon Jacobs left the game to get an x-ray on his arm but returned shortly after. He finished the night with 6 carries for 24 yards, plus an 8-yard TD reception. Just a little reminder that this guy is injury-prone. But he's got top-5 upside if he can play a full 16-game season.
•Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck's 1st pass of the night was picked off by CB Brandon Flowers and returned for a TD. But Hass proceeded to shred the Chiefs secondary. He finished the night 19 of 25 for 216 yards and 2 TDs in just over 1 half of action. His TDs went to WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh and TE John Carlson. Hasselbeck has looked excellent this preseason. And more importantly, he's looked healthy. He's a borderline QB1.
•Colts TE Dallas Clark caught 6 passes for 63 yards and a TD in just over 1 half of action this yesterday. To say Clark and QB Peyton Manning were on the same page would be a serious understatement. Clark is the #2 option in one of the best passing games in the NFL
•Panthers WR Steve Smith appeared in his 1st preseason game of 2009 last night against the Ravens. He finished with 2 catches for 37 yards and looked 100% healthy. Smith was targeted 4 times. He can be safely drafted as a WR1.
•Lions QBs Daunte Culpepper and Matt Stafford played equally well in the team's 3rd preseason game yesterday afternoon. Culpepper got the start and finished 7 of 12 for 67 yards and 1 TD on 2 drives. Stafford played 4 series and completed 13 of 19 attempts for 160 yards and 1 INT. We wouldn't be surprised if the Lions waited until after their final preseason game before naming a starter.
•Ravens RB Ray Rice struggled a bit on the ground last night against the Panthers. He rushed 10 times for just 32 yards. But he also caught 8 balls for 67 yards. Most of the receptions came on check-downs, and Rice did an excellent job picking up chunks of yardage after the catch. Baltimore is definitely gearing up to make Rice the focal point of its offense. However, it's worth noting that RBs LeRon McClain and Willis McGahee combined for 4 carries inside the Panthers' 10, while Rice didn't receive any.
•Raiders RB Darren McFadden had an uneventful afternoon against the Saints. He rushed 3 times for 0 yards and caught 3 balls for 21 yards. The Raiders were smoked 45-7, and the offense never got in rhythm. We're just hoping this performance drops McFaddens's ADP a bit. We still love him as a RB2
Monday, August 24, 2009
Simms Injured Leg
08/24/2009 4:26 PM -
“Broncos quarterback Chris Simms sustained a lower-leg injury during Saturday’s preseason game against the Seahawks. The severity of the injury is yet to be disclosed.”
SOURCE: ROTOTIMES
Related Posts
Simms/Orton To Compete 04/03/2009
Situation Could Be Simms’ Gain? 03/22/2009
Simms Signs With Denver 03/05/2009
Cowboys Could Go After Simms 02/03/2009
Ravens Looking At Simms? 08/31/2008
Friday, August 21, 2009
eCouchCoach
1. Tom Brady, NE—The knee is healthy and Brady is hungry, making him my top fantasy QB. With a more than capable group of receivers, Brady will eclipse the 4,000 yard mark and should lead the NFL in TD passes.
2. Peyton Manning, IND—Consistency is the name of the game when drafting the quarterback high and over the last decade, no player has been more consistent than Manning. He may not be the top fantasy QB, but you won't kick yourself for the pick.
3. Drew Brees, NO—The Saints will still be hurling the ball down the field this year, but the tougher schedule puts Brees' TD-to-INT ratio in jeopardy. He is the top fantasy QB for some, but he's not as flawless as you may think.
4. Aaron Rodgers, GB—Rodgers has no problem adjusting to life as a starter and now that he has a rhythm with his receivers the good times will keep rolling. Even though he faced plenty of passing situations, Rodgers found a way to keep his INT numbers down.
5. Kurt Warner, ARI—If Warner is the starter in Arizona for 16 games he is a fabulous pick. There are plenty of weapons around him and Warner does a great job of getting the ball out of his hands.
6. Donovan McNabb, PHI—The Eagles' Super Bowl hopes are resting on the shoulders of McNabb. Philly's line is stronger and the receivers are deeper, every year owners sleep on McNabb and every year he makes teams pay.
2. Peyton Manning, IND—Consistency is the name of the game when drafting the quarterback high and over the last decade, no player has been more consistent than Manning. He may not be the top fantasy QB, but you won't kick yourself for the pick.
3. Drew Brees, NO—The Saints will still be hurling the ball down the field this year, but the tougher schedule puts Brees' TD-to-INT ratio in jeopardy. He is the top fantasy QB for some, but he's not as flawless as you may think.
4. Aaron Rodgers, GB—Rodgers has no problem adjusting to life as a starter and now that he has a rhythm with his receivers the good times will keep rolling. Even though he faced plenty of passing situations, Rodgers found a way to keep his INT numbers down.
5. Kurt Warner, ARI—If Warner is the starter in Arizona for 16 games he is a fabulous pick. There are plenty of weapons around him and Warner does a great job of getting the ball out of his hands.
6. Donovan McNabb, PHI—The Eagles' Super Bowl hopes are resting on the shoulders of McNabb. Philly's line is stronger and the receivers are deeper, every year owners sleep on McNabb and every year he makes teams pay.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Fantasy Baseball Advice
Dead Weight: Hitters
By Cary James, Fantasy Baseball Cafe Regular
Hello again! Today we return to the hitters who are making you hate that you paid good money for draft guides. Luck is 50% of fantasy sports, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Notice, this isn’t a Buy/Sell guide per se, but a document of human suffering. I will then increase the level of suffering by including two players regularly available in most leagues that have been playing better than your second-round bust. Let the fun begin!
Dead Weight
C: Russell Martin (LAD)
No power, not enough steals, and he’s barely hitting for average. And here’s a painfully fun game brought to you by hindsight.
Catcher A: 48 runs / 3 HR / 33 RBI / 9 SB / .261 BA
Catcher B: 52 runs / 9 HR / 53 RBI / 5 SB / .277 BA
Isn’t it awful to know that the first line is Russell and the second is some scrubby catcher picked up on waivers? And you passed up on solid 4-category OFs or stud pitchers to draft a catching equivalent to Ivan Rodriguez? Oh yeah, I went there.
Replace him with…
Kurt Suzuki (OAK)
Yup, he is Catcher B in the last example. Not much else to report, but…*yawn*…boy is it hard to write about catchers. Did you know I drafted Ramon Hernandez too early in my draft, but was able to replace him with Brandon Inge in a pinch? Anywho, expect middling numbers from Suzuki through the rest of the season, probably a .270 average with about 15 runs/ribbies to the end. Mixed leaguers can do better, but AL-only players are holding him close their hearts.
Miguel Olivo (KC)
In need of power and willing to sacrifice batting average? Sounds like a Royals catcher to me! John Buck wasn’t hitting 15 homers with .200 average, so Olivo has taken over gracefully, bashing 16 homers and even hitting .240! However, Brayan Pena has been taking away his at-bats, making Olivo a spot-start at best. Plus, his peripherals for a terrible hitting team like the Royals are terrifically awful. Guess what? He’s still ranked higher than Russell Martin for the season. Brutal.
By Cary James, Fantasy Baseball Cafe Regular
Hello again! Today we return to the hitters who are making you hate that you paid good money for draft guides. Luck is 50% of fantasy sports, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Notice, this isn’t a Buy/Sell guide per se, but a document of human suffering. I will then increase the level of suffering by including two players regularly available in most leagues that have been playing better than your second-round bust. Let the fun begin!
Dead Weight
C: Russell Martin (LAD)
No power, not enough steals, and he’s barely hitting for average. And here’s a painfully fun game brought to you by hindsight.
Catcher A: 48 runs / 3 HR / 33 RBI / 9 SB / .261 BA
Catcher B: 52 runs / 9 HR / 53 RBI / 5 SB / .277 BA
Isn’t it awful to know that the first line is Russell and the second is some scrubby catcher picked up on waivers? And you passed up on solid 4-category OFs or stud pitchers to draft a catching equivalent to Ivan Rodriguez? Oh yeah, I went there.
Replace him with…
Kurt Suzuki (OAK)
Yup, he is Catcher B in the last example. Not much else to report, but…*yawn*…boy is it hard to write about catchers. Did you know I drafted Ramon Hernandez too early in my draft, but was able to replace him with Brandon Inge in a pinch? Anywho, expect middling numbers from Suzuki through the rest of the season, probably a .270 average with about 15 runs/ribbies to the end. Mixed leaguers can do better, but AL-only players are holding him close their hearts.
Miguel Olivo (KC)
In need of power and willing to sacrifice batting average? Sounds like a Royals catcher to me! John Buck wasn’t hitting 15 homers with .200 average, so Olivo has taken over gracefully, bashing 16 homers and even hitting .240! However, Brayan Pena has been taking away his at-bats, making Olivo a spot-start at best. Plus, his peripherals for a terrible hitting team like the Royals are terrifically awful. Guess what? He’s still ranked higher than Russell Martin for the season. Brutal.
SOFA League Experts
Yours truly recently completed another experts league draft known as SOFA (Site Owners Football Association), which includes nine other very knowledgeable websites from around the internet. The first thing that crossed my mind is “Greg, you had better do an outstanding job or Craig (Davis) will come calling.” I always get a bit nervous with these type of leagues since I, by myself, am representing an entire site. But, aside from MFL crashing for a good hour, I believe I had one of the better drafts I have had in awhile. Plus, it helped that it was a 10-teamer, rather than the usual 12-14. My big money local league is a 10′er, so I have been practicing for one of these for quite some time. Below are the breakdowns of rounds and what I think of the players that I had drafted.
ROUND 1
1.01 - Adrian Peterson, Rotoworld
1.02 - LaDainian Tomlinson, KFFL
1.03 - Matt Forte, Fantasyfootball.com
1.04 - Maurice Jones-Drew, Rotoexperts
1.05 - Chris Johnson, Fantasy Insights
1.06 - Steven Jackson, Fantasy Guru
1.07 - Andre Johnson, Footballguys.com
1.08 - Larry Fitzgerald, Sports Weekly
1.09 - DeAngelo Williams, Sports Grumblings
1.10 - Frank Gore, The Huddle
This really wasn’t much of a surprise. I had pegged Forte as a top-5 talent all offseason. The signing of QB Jay Cutler won’t change that.
ROUND 2
2.01 - Randy Moss, The Huddle
2.02 - Steve Slaton, Sports Grumblings
2.03 - Michael Turner, Sports Weekly
2.04 - Calvin Johnson, Footballguys
2.05 - Greg Jennings, Fantasy Guru
2.06. - Reggie Wayne, Fantasy Insights
2.07 - Marion Barber, Rotoexperts
2.08 - Brian Westbrook, Fantasyfootball.com
2.09 - Clinton Portis, KFFL
2.10 - Marques Colston, Rotoworld
ROUND 1
1.01 - Adrian Peterson, Rotoworld
1.02 - LaDainian Tomlinson, KFFL
1.03 - Matt Forte, Fantasyfootball.com
1.04 - Maurice Jones-Drew, Rotoexperts
1.05 - Chris Johnson, Fantasy Insights
1.06 - Steven Jackson, Fantasy Guru
1.07 - Andre Johnson, Footballguys.com
1.08 - Larry Fitzgerald, Sports Weekly
1.09 - DeAngelo Williams, Sports Grumblings
1.10 - Frank Gore, The Huddle
This really wasn’t much of a surprise. I had pegged Forte as a top-5 talent all offseason. The signing of QB Jay Cutler won’t change that.
ROUND 2
2.01 - Randy Moss, The Huddle
2.02 - Steve Slaton, Sports Grumblings
2.03 - Michael Turner, Sports Weekly
2.04 - Calvin Johnson, Footballguys
2.05 - Greg Jennings, Fantasy Guru
2.06. - Reggie Wayne, Fantasy Insights
2.07 - Marion Barber, Rotoexperts
2.08 - Brian Westbrook, Fantasyfootball.com
2.09 - Clinton Portis, KFFL
2.10 - Marques Colston, Rotoworld
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Vikings Sign Brett Favre
Vikings Sign Brett Favre
August 18, 2009, 3:08pm
Vikings Website - [Full Article]
The Minnesota Vikings have signed three-time NFL MVP Brett Favre , the team announced today. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. “We believe adding a player such as Brett Favre to our mix will be a strong positive for this football team,” said Head Coach Brad Childress. “As we have conveyed before, his unique knowledge of our system, the NFC North and his innate skills make this a rare opportunity. We felt there was a brief window to reconsider the possibility and we owed it to the organization to evaluate our options. After thorough discussion, the same variables that made this a unique and positive situation previously, still exist. Now, our attention turns to getting to work as a team, our next practice and preparing for the season.”
Monday, August 17, 2009
Monday, August 10, 2009
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Senate poised to make history with Sotomayor vote
JULIE HIRSCHFELD DAVIS
AP News
Aug 06, 2009 05:23 EST
Sonia Sotomayor is poised to make history as the Supreme Court's first Hispanic justice despite staunch opposition from Republicans who call her ill-suited for the bench, a pending victory for Democrats who believe her confirmation will pay off politically.
The Senate is ready to vote Thursday to confirm President Barack Obama's high court nominee, a 55-year-old appeals court judge of Puerto Rican descent who was raised in a New York City housing project, educated in the Ivy League and served 17 years on the federal bench.
Sotomayor picked up more GOP support Wednesday even as nearly three-quarters of the Senate's 40 Republicans said they would vote "no" and contended she would bring liberal bias and personal sympathies to her decisions. With all Democrats expected to back her, she has more than enough votes to be confirmed, barring a surprise turn of events, in one of the Senate's last actions before it breaks for the summer.
Democrats, praising her as a well-qualified judge and a mainstream moderate, are warning Republicans that they risk a backlash from Hispanic voters — a growing part of the electorate — if they oppose her. But Republicans bristle at the suggestion, noting that Democrats used extraordinary measures several years ago to block the confirmation of GOP-nominated Miguel Estrada, a Honduran-born attorney, to the federal bench.
GOP senators say their opposition to Sotomayor is based on her speeches and record, pointing to a few rulings in which they argue she showed disregard for gun rights, property rights and job discrimination claims by white employees. They also cite comments she's made about the role that a judge's background and perspective can play, especially a 2001 speech in which she said she hoped a "wise Latina" would usually make better decisions than a white man.
Republicans have been particularly critical of Sotomayor's position on the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms. She was part of a panel that ruled this year that the amendment doesn't limit state actions — only federal ones — in keeping with previous Supreme Court precedent. But gun rights supporters said her court shouldn't have called the issue "settled law," and they criticized her for refusing during her confirmation hearings to go beyond what the high court has said and declare that the Second Amendment applies to the states.
The National Rifle Association is strongly opposing her and has threatened to downgrade any senator who votes to confirm Sotomayor in its closely watched candidate ratings. The warning has made little impact on Democrats, many of whom have rallied behind the judge despite their perfect or near-perfect ratings from the NRA, but it may have influenced some Republicans who were initially considered possible supporters but have since announced their opposition, citing gun rights as a key reason.
Just a handful of Republicans are backing Sotomayor, and most of them say that while they disagree with some of her views and rulings, they believe she's well-qualified. Sen. Kit Bond of Missouri said partisanship has no place in debates over judges.
"There's been no significant finding against her, there's been no public uprising against her," Bond said. "I will support her, I'll be proud for her, the community she represents and the American dream she shows is possible."
Sen. Judd Gregg, R-N.H., also said he'd vote for her, adding that politicizing the confirmation process — as he argued Democrats did when they blocked GOP nominees in the past — "undermines the public's views of our courts and the integrity of our judicial system."
Obama named Sotomayor to replace retiring Justice David Souter, a liberal named by a Republican president, and she's not expected to alter the court's ideological balance.
AP News
Aug 06, 2009 05:23 EST
Sonia Sotomayor is poised to make history as the Supreme Court's first Hispanic justice despite staunch opposition from Republicans who call her ill-suited for the bench, a pending victory for Democrats who believe her confirmation will pay off politically.
The Senate is ready to vote Thursday to confirm President Barack Obama's high court nominee, a 55-year-old appeals court judge of Puerto Rican descent who was raised in a New York City housing project, educated in the Ivy League and served 17 years on the federal bench.
Sotomayor picked up more GOP support Wednesday even as nearly three-quarters of the Senate's 40 Republicans said they would vote "no" and contended she would bring liberal bias and personal sympathies to her decisions. With all Democrats expected to back her, she has more than enough votes to be confirmed, barring a surprise turn of events, in one of the Senate's last actions before it breaks for the summer.
Democrats, praising her as a well-qualified judge and a mainstream moderate, are warning Republicans that they risk a backlash from Hispanic voters — a growing part of the electorate — if they oppose her. But Republicans bristle at the suggestion, noting that Democrats used extraordinary measures several years ago to block the confirmation of GOP-nominated Miguel Estrada, a Honduran-born attorney, to the federal bench.
GOP senators say their opposition to Sotomayor is based on her speeches and record, pointing to a few rulings in which they argue she showed disregard for gun rights, property rights and job discrimination claims by white employees. They also cite comments she's made about the role that a judge's background and perspective can play, especially a 2001 speech in which she said she hoped a "wise Latina" would usually make better decisions than a white man.
Republicans have been particularly critical of Sotomayor's position on the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms. She was part of a panel that ruled this year that the amendment doesn't limit state actions — only federal ones — in keeping with previous Supreme Court precedent. But gun rights supporters said her court shouldn't have called the issue "settled law," and they criticized her for refusing during her confirmation hearings to go beyond what the high court has said and declare that the Second Amendment applies to the states.
The National Rifle Association is strongly opposing her and has threatened to downgrade any senator who votes to confirm Sotomayor in its closely watched candidate ratings. The warning has made little impact on Democrats, many of whom have rallied behind the judge despite their perfect or near-perfect ratings from the NRA, but it may have influenced some Republicans who were initially considered possible supporters but have since announced their opposition, citing gun rights as a key reason.
Just a handful of Republicans are backing Sotomayor, and most of them say that while they disagree with some of her views and rulings, they believe she's well-qualified. Sen. Kit Bond of Missouri said partisanship has no place in debates over judges.
"There's been no significant finding against her, there's been no public uprising against her," Bond said. "I will support her, I'll be proud for her, the community she represents and the American dream she shows is possible."
Sen. Judd Gregg, R-N.H., also said he'd vote for her, adding that politicizing the confirmation process — as he argued Democrats did when they blocked GOP nominees in the past — "undermines the public's views of our courts and the integrity of our judicial system."
Obama named Sotomayor to replace retiring Justice David Souter, a liberal named by a Republican president, and she's not expected to alter the court's ideological balance.
Former Edwards Mistress Arrives At Federal Courthouse
The former mistress of John Edwards arrived at a federal courthouse in Raleigh, N.C., this morning, reports the Associated Press. Rielle Hunter is presumably testifying to a grand jury.
In video shown on CNN, Hunter had her daughter with her as she entered the courthouse.
Edwards has admitted a grand jury is investigating his use of campaign funds, but the U.S. Attorney's office in North Carolina won't confirm or deny an investigation. Edwards's political action committee paid Hunter's video production firm $100,000 in 2006, and another $14,086 in April 2007. Edwards said he ended the affair in 2006.
In video shown on CNN, Hunter had her daughter with her as she entered the courthouse.
Edwards has admitted a grand jury is investigating his use of campaign funds, but the U.S. Attorney's office in North Carolina won't confirm or deny an investigation. Edwards's political action committee paid Hunter's video production firm $100,000 in 2006, and another $14,086 in April 2007. Edwards said he ended the affair in 2006.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Has Naomi lost it again?
Yet another report of Naomi Campbell losing her rag has hit the headlines.
Boring. We think so. But still it’s news so we’re reporting it. The supermodel has been accused of attacking a photographer with her handbag. Don’t laugh. He’s actually had to be admitted into hospital. The incident was said to have taken place while she was holidaying with her boyfriend.
Speaking to an Italian newspaper, photographer Gaetano Di Giovanni said,
‘First she hit with her bag, screaming at me and then she tried to slap me. I managed to avoid her – but her nails still got my eye. For a few seconds I could not see a thing. I could hear that her bodyguards and her boyfriend were trying to drag her away.’
Naomi’s camp are denying the accusations.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
oh HELL no
Just yesterday I had to go and open my big yap about not knowing where the hell Heidi and Spencer have been lately, because if these pictures of them shopping for baby clothes are the be believed, they've been off having shitloads of unprotected sex. I really hope this is just another one of their retarded publicity stunts, because the thought of these two bringing children into the world is just unholy. When I think about what would make better parents than Heidi and Spencer, the first things that come to mind are sweatshop owners, a pack of hyenas, crackheads, Taiwanese sex traders, and Jon and Kate Gosselin.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Bar Refaeli Moves on From Leo With New Man
Well, that didn’t take long! Bar Refaeli and Leonardo DiCaprio decided to call it quits for the umpteenth time just a few weeks ago. And she’s already reportedly moved on to another man!
According to Page Six, Bar was spotted in St. Tropez partying with Brazilian polo player and entrepreneur Ricardo Mansur in the French Riviera town on July 22nd.
A source says, "On Saturday, they were all over each other at Hotel Byblos at the swimming pool bar, and then in a club later that night."
Brazilian website Glamurama says Bar and Ricardo were seen canoodling over the weekend.
Just a little background on this guy—he owns a nightclub, the department store chains Mappin and Mesbla, and used to date Gisele Bundchen and model Isabeli Fontini. What’s with Bar taking Gisele's sloppy seconds all the time?
Bar and Leo split in June after three years of dating. Well it was probably more like two if you count all the breakups.
At the time of the split, a source close to Bar told People, "She wanted to move faster than he did – she wanted to move in together. So he broke it off."
Guess girls like that don’t stay single for long!
Love It Or Hate It: Leighton Meester
'Gossip Girl' star Leighton Meester was spotted leaving a Katy Perry concert last night with boyfriend Stan Sebastian. But on to the good stuff: what do you think of Leighton's outfit?
That sheer flowery blouse intimidates me, although it actually might camoflouge minor tummy issues (although I'm sure Leighton has no tummy issues ;).
And the shoes!
So: love it or hate it?
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Kim Kardashian and Reggie Bush Splilt
Looking very sad (but still hot) after today’s announcement that her and Reggie Bush have split, we have the gorgeous Kim Kardashian spotted in Beverly Hills today. We are so on team Kardashian. Next time we see this Reggie guy we are totes going to scratch some eyes out. I’m going to get a manicure now. When we find out what he did…. it’s on.
No worries Kim, you still have your gays. We heart you. Give us a call and let’s go get some free stuff.
Oh, one last thing. You know we love you girl, and you’re probably having a bad day… but I think we have seen you in those cage shoes a few too many times before, and Lindsay Lohan did those shoes a couple months ago… just saying. We wouldn’t be good friends if we didn’t tell you. Right? Kisses. Call us.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Monday, July 20, 2009
"Harry Potter" Flies to the Top
"Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" dominated its five-day debut as it raked in $159.7 million since it debuted last Wednesday.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Universal's R-rated "Bruno" fell 73% from its opening-weekend tally to register $8.4 million in fourth place and a cumulative of $49.6 million.
Fox's 3D animated feature "Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs" came in second with $17.7 million, producing a $152 million cumulative through three weekends. Paramount's "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen" finished third with $13.8 million and a $363.9 million cumulative through four weeks. Tied for fifth over the weekend were the durable box office hits “The Proposal” and “The Hangover” with $8.3 million.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
MJ Updates
Here’s the latest on Michael Jackson:
The family had to move Michael’s body from Berry Gordy’s crypt at Forest Lawn where it was being kept. They feared a crazed fan would come in and possibly damage the coffin and body. They moved him to the facility’s main building basement until burial details are worked out.
Katherine Jackson and Debbie Rowe have reached a compromise on the custody of Michael’s 2 eldest children. Debbie has agreed to allow Katherine to raise the kids on the condition that Joe Jackson not be permitted to have input into the kids’ lives. Rowe will also be entitled to monthly visits with the children.
Michael Jackson’s London O2 Arena gig promoter Randy Phillips says he is “confident” that a tribute gig for Michael will take place at the venue in the near future.
Debbie Rowe took a payout–again–to give up parental rights to her kids. She will receive $4 million for dropping her custody case against Katherine Jackson, hence giving up her parental rights to Prince Michael and Paris Katherine. UPDATE: Debbie Rowe’s lawyers have fired off a letter to the NY Post telling them this story is untrue and demanding a retraction.
Mischa Barton Removed from Home by Police
Police removed actress Mischa Barton from her Hollywood home yesterday after suffering from what friends describe as an acid flashback 'freak out.' According to Us Magazine
'We responded to her home last night on a medical issue,' Officer April Harding tells Us. 'We assisted… [and] she was removed from her home.'
A source tells Us Barton called the police herself after having a 'freak out.'
Her people are calling it a 'medical non-emergency' and implying she left of her own accord, but the fact remains that the officer used the word 'removed' in describing her departure from her house. Nothing good ever gets 'removed.' You remove a stain or a wart or a hobo from the grill of your car or 'The O.C.' from your fall lineup three fucking years ago. Why are we still talking about this bitch again?
After being physically 'escorted' out of the bathroom at Whisky Mist earlier this month:
Gerard Butler is “annoyed” with Jennifer Aniston romance rumors
Gerard Butler is annoyed. He’s annoyed by the constant speculation about who he’s dating, who he’s sleeping with, and who he’s just occasionally feeling up. Sidenote: If he really felt that strongly about it, why pose for arm-in-arm pictures with Jennifer Aniston, hm? This all comes from an interview Gerard gave to People, I suspect to promote The Ugly Truth. But he just ended up answering questions about Jennifer Aniston and the film the two of them are currently working on. Gerard calls Jennifer a “classy lady”. Of course, he also calls her “easy”, but I’m sure he meant “easy-going”. Bless his heart, the man loves his hyperbole - earlier this week he called Katherine Heigl “the sexiest, smartest, sassiest, funniest actress out there.”
The Bounty Hunter costars Jennifer Aniston and Gerard Butler are making headlines with speculation over their off-screen romance – but a usually humorous Butler sets the record straight on one thing he doesn’t find funny.
“That is just annoying. People say I’m always dating so and so, and sometimes it’s three people in one day,” says the actor, 39.
“I’m trying to make movies, work hard and do my best. Then this kind of thing happens and people start to associate me more with that. It gets ridiculous.”
Aside from those pesky rumors, Butler – who also stars with Katherine Heigl in The Ugly Truth, opening July 24 – has nothing to complain about when it comes to his current gig.
“She is one classy lady,” he says of Aniston. “Everyday I go to work with her I’m always surprised about how cool, easy and down to earth and real she is.”
He adds, “I’m in New York right now filming and I’m in heaven. I can’t always say that about movies, but to be filming this romantic comedy with Jennifer and a story that made my side split when I read it – I’m lucky. I’m happy as a pig in s—, as they say.”
As far as Aniston’s current love life goes – a source close to the actress, 40, says she’s still happily talking to Bradley Cooper. But when it comes to working with Butler, “They get along really well, but Jen only likes him as a friend,” says a source. “She can’t see herself dating him.”
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Science Fiction 'Czar'- The disturbing intellectual record of Obama's science czar
Dr. John Holdren, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy—better known as the "science czar"—has been a longtime prophet of environmental catastrophes. Never discouraged but never right.
And thanks to resourceful bloggers, you can read excerpts from a hard-to-find book co-authored by Holdren in the late 1970s, called Ecoscience: Population, Resources, Environment, online.
In it, you will find the czar wading into some unpleasant talk about mass sterilizations and abortions.
It's not surprising. Holdren spent the '70s boogying down to the vibes of an imaginary population catastrophe and global cooling. He also participated in the famous wager between scientist Paul Ehrlich, the now-discredited Population Bomb theorist (and co-author of Ecoscience), and economist Julian Simon, who believed human ingenuity would overcome demand.
Holdren was asked by Ehrlich to pick five natural resources that would experience shortages because of human consumption. He lost the bet on all counts, as the composite price index for the commodities he picked, including copper and chromium, fell by more than 40 percent.
Then again, it's one thing to be a bumbling soothsayer but quite another to underestimate the resourcefulness of mankind enough to ponder how "population-control laws, even including laws requiring compulsory abortion, could be sustained under the existing Constitution," as Holdren did in Ecoscience in 1977.....
And thanks to resourceful bloggers, you can read excerpts from a hard-to-find book co-authored by Holdren in the late 1970s, called Ecoscience: Population, Resources, Environment, online.
In it, you will find the czar wading into some unpleasant talk about mass sterilizations and abortions.
It's not surprising. Holdren spent the '70s boogying down to the vibes of an imaginary population catastrophe and global cooling. He also participated in the famous wager between scientist Paul Ehrlich, the now-discredited Population Bomb theorist (and co-author of Ecoscience), and economist Julian Simon, who believed human ingenuity would overcome demand.
Holdren was asked by Ehrlich to pick five natural resources that would experience shortages because of human consumption. He lost the bet on all counts, as the composite price index for the commodities he picked, including copper and chromium, fell by more than 40 percent.
Then again, it's one thing to be a bumbling soothsayer but quite another to underestimate the resourcefulness of mankind enough to ponder how "population-control laws, even including laws requiring compulsory abortion, could be sustained under the existing Constitution," as Holdren did in Ecoscience in 1977.....
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Tony Romo Found Messages from John Mayer on Jessica's Phone
Everyone keeps talking about how shocked they are to hear Tony Romo and Jessica Simpson have split up. But there are new juicy details that may shed light on the situation!
Jess may have still been secretly keeping in touch with John Mayer! The two broke up in 2006, but apparently the flame hasn’t completely gone out!
Radar is reporting that Tony found messages from John in Jessica’s phone. He had just flown into LA on Thursday, one day before Jess’ 29th birthday.
The source says, “They were hanging out and he picked up her phone and she got defensive about it. Tony found messages from John and went ballistic.”
That was apparently the straw that broke the camel’s back, because according to the source, “Tony dumped her right then. He walked out and that was it.”
Guess Tony doesn’t like to play games! We’re surprised Jess would still be talking to John after all this time! Why now?? And why would she mess up her relationship with Tony?! He was the best thing that ever happened to her after her divorce!
New Lo Bosworth Candids
The Hills star Lo Bosworth was spotted leaving the Matt Leinart Charity Bowl at the Lucky Stride in Hollywood last night…
Is it me, or is this look totally unflattering?
Is it me, or is this look totally unflattering?
Monday, July 13, 2009
Joe Jackson Set To Take The Jackson Children On Tour In 2010
Joe Jackson is really beyond the realm of belief anymore. His son Michael passed away on June 25th and the family hasn’t even buried him yet, and already he’s talking about exploiting Michael’s three children. Sad.
Celebrity biographer, Ian Halperin, who worked with Michael, claimed that Joe was getting the kids geared up for a 2010 tour as The Jackson Three.
Halperin said, “Joe wants the children to go on a world tour in 2010. He has also already offered recording contracts to two of Michael’s kids. Now he is talking about getting them the world’s best backing band and taking them on tour as The Jackson Three.”
One of the Jacksons is reportedly pretty mad about the whole idea and may just speak out about it. Halperin added, “One of the family members is livid. He is saying Joe seems intent to do this no matter what.”
Joe himself even said, “I keep watching Paris. She….wants to do something. And as far as I can see, well, they say Blanket, he can really dance.”
Someone needs to stop this douchebag. It’s just too soon for any of this nonsense. Don’t you think?
Celebrity biographer, Ian Halperin, who worked with Michael, claimed that Joe was getting the kids geared up for a 2010 tour as The Jackson Three.
Halperin said, “Joe wants the children to go on a world tour in 2010. He has also already offered recording contracts to two of Michael’s kids. Now he is talking about getting them the world’s best backing band and taking them on tour as The Jackson Three.”
One of the Jacksons is reportedly pretty mad about the whole idea and may just speak out about it. Halperin added, “One of the family members is livid. He is saying Joe seems intent to do this no matter what.”
Joe himself even said, “I keep watching Paris. She….wants to do something. And as far as I can see, well, they say Blanket, he can really dance.”
Someone needs to stop this douchebag. It’s just too soon for any of this nonsense. Don’t you think?
Friday, June 19, 2009
Hot New Couple Alert: Jennifer Aniston And Bradley Cooper
Yes, yes, I know Bradley Cooper has denied dating Jennifer Aniston. He even told Us Weekly at the premiere of his new movie, 'The Hangover' that he had only met Jennifer "three times."
However. They were spotted out just last night. On what looked like a date.
'It was a date," says a source [to People]. 'She is taking it slow. She is obviously looking for love, but is not about to rush into anything.' "
Unfortunately, I don't own the rights to the pictures, but you can check them out here.
What do you think? Where's there's smoke (or many rumors), is there fire (a.k.a. truth)?
They would certainly make a great-looking couple!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
LePaparazzi Mock Up
Chris Brown has spoken out about his alleged attack on ex-girlfriend Rihanna to assure fans he's "not a monster".
The R&B singer is facing charges of felony assault and making criminal threats in relation to his well-publicised altercation with Rihanna in Los Angeles on 8 February (09), which reportedly left the Umbrella hitmakerbattered and bruised.
"In a video post on YouTube"
Brown is fighting to clear his name after pleading not guilty to the accusations in April (09) - and now he's taken to the web to address the situation and reveal his plans for a pop comeback.
In a video post on YouTube.com, Brown says, "I just wanna say what up 'cause I ain't (sic) been out there, but a new album's gonna be coming soon, called Graffiti... I'm about to drop a single this summer for y'all, we ain't (sic) going nowhere. "Everybody that's been haters, they always been haters.
All my real fans, I love y'all, I ain't (sic) a monster".
Monday, June 8, 2009
Washingtong Dirt
Here's a continuealy updated Image Mosaic that has the latest images being published that are tagged with the super-topic "Politics". You can customize this widget to have only certain names and/or topics show up but it's a nice image tool to be able to offer your readers a gallery of images from the world of politics on the side of the page.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
RightWingNews Demo
Sure, it's early and we don't know for sure who's going to get in the race yet, but it's still fun to speculate about who the GOP nominee in 2012 will be. Here's a short, but sweet rundown of the strength of the most likely candidates. This can and will change -- perhaps considerably -- by 2012.
Look Unlikely To Run And/Or Don't Make The Top 8: Haley Barbour, Dick Cheney, Charlie Crist, Mitch Daniels, Jon Huntsman, Bobby Jindal, John McCain, David Petraeus, John Thune
8) Ron Paul:
Strengths: He has more name recognition now after his 2008 run and a small, but absolutely rabid fan base that will keep him well financed and neck deep in volunteers. His strong emphasis on financial issues in the 2008 campaign will help buffer his credibility in 2012 and may allow him to broaden his base of support.
Weaknesses: It's not possible for him to broaden his base enough to win the nomination, although he may increase the percentage of people supporting him.
7) Jeb Bush:
Strengths: He could guarantee Florida for the GOP, can raise the money he'd need, and is fiscally conservative.
Weaknesses: He's pro-comprehensive immigration and more importantly, his last name is Bush. It's hard to imagine Republicans or for that matter, the American people, voting another member of the Bush family into the White House in 2012.
6) Newt Gingrich:
Strengths: He's one of the best conservative idea men and can raise the money needed. He's also an experienced politician and well liked by the base -- for the most part. Additionally, he's one of the smartest and savviest political operators out there.
Weaknesses: Has a long legislative record that can be picked apart and a messy personal life in his past. He once lost his leadership position in a GOP coup. Honestly, he also seems to have the same problem Fred Thompson did: he has a pretty good life and doesn't seem to want it all that bad.
5) Tim Pawlenty:
Strengths: He's from Minnesota, which is a key electoral state and that would certainly help him. He's socially conservative, wasn't involved in the 2008 primary or the election, and he's doing great work on the budget in Minnesota.
Weaknesses: Whether he's charismatic enough to be President is yet to be proven. He has low name recognition. Can he raise the money needed?
4) Mike Huckabee:
Strengths: He has tremendous charisma, will have much better name recognition next time around, and is working hard to build a long term organization and shore up his support in the party. Not everything he is trying is working, but he is putting in the work.
Weaknesses: He tends to be mistake prone and got tagged as a "big government Republican" last time around. Unless he can change that impression, it's going to be very difficult for him to win. He also may not be as well financed as some of the other candidates and has some enemies in the Party who will be very difficult to turn around.
3) Mark Sanford:
Strengths: He's a strong fiscal conservative who has been working to get his name out there. His decision to decline some of the stimulus money has helped significantly on that front. Happily for him, because he's governor of South Carolina, he's not associated with the disaster in DC or the fractious primaries of 2008.
Weaknesses: He doesn't have big name recognition and the fact that the GOP has been tagged as a "Southern Party" will undoubtedly make some Republicans less likely to support a Southern candidate. He's not net savvy -- yet, although that may very well change by 2012.
2) Mitt Romney
Strengths: He's extremely well organized, will have plenty of money, and he developed into a sort of "weak consensus" conservative alternative to McCain near the end of the last primary. Depending on how the economy looks in 2012, his business background could be a big plus and he's a solid, but not spectacular speaker.
Weaknesses: He wasn't able to close the deal with most conservatives in 2008 because they didn't trust him and he may very well have the same problem in 2012. Mitt also has a group of Republicans who hate him with a passion and will be inconvincible. He was also weak in the South in 2008 and will probably be weak again this time. It's hard to say how much of a factor his being a Mormon is in all of this, but at a minimum, it certainly doesn't help.
1) Sarah Palin
Strengths: She has the most enthusiastic support amongst the GOP base by far. That will translate into fundraising, volunteers, and a ferocious defense from the Right. She is an excellent speaker, a savvy politician, will have the most compelling background of anyone running, and her primary weakness, a lack of experience, will have been shored up a bit by then.
Weaknesses: She has been damaged by media attacks a bit, but not beyond repair. Her approval rating in Alaska has slipped considerably. There is a small group of Republicans who hate her with a passion, based more on style than substance. She has done a very poor job of reaching out to her rabid supporters since the election and that could sap some of their enthusiasm.
Look Unlikely To Run And/Or Don't Make The Top 8: Haley Barbour, Dick Cheney, Charlie Crist, Mitch Daniels, Jon Huntsman, Bobby Jindal, John McCain, David Petraeus, John Thune
8) Ron Paul:
Strengths: He has more name recognition now after his 2008 run and a small, but absolutely rabid fan base that will keep him well financed and neck deep in volunteers. His strong emphasis on financial issues in the 2008 campaign will help buffer his credibility in 2012 and may allow him to broaden his base of support.
Weaknesses: It's not possible for him to broaden his base enough to win the nomination, although he may increase the percentage of people supporting him.
7) Jeb Bush:
Strengths: He could guarantee Florida for the GOP, can raise the money he'd need, and is fiscally conservative.
Weaknesses: He's pro-comprehensive immigration and more importantly, his last name is Bush. It's hard to imagine Republicans or for that matter, the American people, voting another member of the Bush family into the White House in 2012.
6) Newt Gingrich:
Strengths: He's one of the best conservative idea men and can raise the money needed. He's also an experienced politician and well liked by the base -- for the most part. Additionally, he's one of the smartest and savviest political operators out there.
Weaknesses: Has a long legislative record that can be picked apart and a messy personal life in his past. He once lost his leadership position in a GOP coup. Honestly, he also seems to have the same problem Fred Thompson did: he has a pretty good life and doesn't seem to want it all that bad.
5) Tim Pawlenty:
Strengths: He's from Minnesota, which is a key electoral state and that would certainly help him. He's socially conservative, wasn't involved in the 2008 primary or the election, and he's doing great work on the budget in Minnesota.
Weaknesses: Whether he's charismatic enough to be President is yet to be proven. He has low name recognition. Can he raise the money needed?
4) Mike Huckabee:
Strengths: He has tremendous charisma, will have much better name recognition next time around, and is working hard to build a long term organization and shore up his support in the party. Not everything he is trying is working, but he is putting in the work.
Weaknesses: He tends to be mistake prone and got tagged as a "big government Republican" last time around. Unless he can change that impression, it's going to be very difficult for him to win. He also may not be as well financed as some of the other candidates and has some enemies in the Party who will be very difficult to turn around.
3) Mark Sanford:
Strengths: He's a strong fiscal conservative who has been working to get his name out there. His decision to decline some of the stimulus money has helped significantly on that front. Happily for him, because he's governor of South Carolina, he's not associated with the disaster in DC or the fractious primaries of 2008.
Weaknesses: He doesn't have big name recognition and the fact that the GOP has been tagged as a "Southern Party" will undoubtedly make some Republicans less likely to support a Southern candidate. He's not net savvy -- yet, although that may very well change by 2012.
2) Mitt Romney
Strengths: He's extremely well organized, will have plenty of money, and he developed into a sort of "weak consensus" conservative alternative to McCain near the end of the last primary. Depending on how the economy looks in 2012, his business background could be a big plus and he's a solid, but not spectacular speaker.
Weaknesses: He wasn't able to close the deal with most conservatives in 2008 because they didn't trust him and he may very well have the same problem in 2012. Mitt also has a group of Republicans who hate him with a passion and will be inconvincible. He was also weak in the South in 2008 and will probably be weak again this time. It's hard to say how much of a factor his being a Mormon is in all of this, but at a minimum, it certainly doesn't help.
1) Sarah Palin
Strengths: She has the most enthusiastic support amongst the GOP base by far. That will translate into fundraising, volunteers, and a ferocious defense from the Right. She is an excellent speaker, a savvy politician, will have the most compelling background of anyone running, and her primary weakness, a lack of experience, will have been shored up a bit by then.
Weaknesses: She has been damaged by media attacks a bit, but not beyond repair. Her approval rating in Alaska has slipped considerably. There is a small group of Republicans who hate her with a passion, based more on style than substance. She has done a very poor job of reaching out to her rabid supporters since the election and that could sap some of their enthusiasm.
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