Cynthia A. Janak
Why the Dems hate Governor Sarah Palin
By Cynthia A. Janak
I was not going to write an article about the election at this time but I received an email today with some pictures of Governor Palin. As I was looking at the pictures something did not look right so I did what I do best and did a search of every picture on the web. Here are my findings.
Here is the first picture in the email.
It looks pretty good to let you believe that she is standing there with a glass of wine in this outfit.
This is the real picture that the head shot was taken from.
I thought this was a really good crop job.
I am now going to show you another set of pictures that show Governor Palin in a bad way. Once again you will see a great crop job was done. They even reversed her head to fit the pose.
This one gives you a really bad impression of the Governor of Alaska.
Doesn't it remind you of the pictures of Oswald? That was the first thing that I thought of.
Once again I found the picture that the head shot was taken from.
Now why would someone want to discredit this woman who has worked hard and, in my opinion, have real values and goals evidenced in her speech given when she was running for governor of Alaska.
Because of this email I had to find out why a democratic supporter does not like Governor Sarah Palin. I wanted to know why they would go to such. It did not take me long to find my answer.
I went to Project Vote Smart http://www.votesmart.org to find my information about Senator John McCain's Vice-Presidential pick. This is what I found.
http://www.votesmart.org/bio.php?can_id=27200
Political Experience:
Governor, Alaska, 2006-present
Former President, Alaska Conference of Mayors
Former Mayor/Manager, Wasilla City
Former Council Member, Wasilla City Council.
Organizations:
Member, Alaska Miners Association
Member, Alaska Outdoor Council
Member, Alaska Resource Development Council
Member, Chambers of Commerce (Various)
Member, Iditarod Parent-Teacher Association
Member, National Rifle Association
Member, Valley Hospital Association Board
Coach/Hockey Team Manager, Valley Youth Sports
Member, Youth Court Steering Committee
Former Member, American Management Association
Former Member, Salvation Army Board.
Caucuses/Non-Legislative Committees:
Chairman, Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, 2003-2004
Former Member, Alaska Municipal League Board
Chair, Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission
Vice Chair, National Governors Association Natural Resources Committee.
I find this to be a pretty impressive background for someone that is not experienced enough. Consider this; she was involved in the workings of her state before becoming Governor of Alaska. Now to her views on the issues. I found this to be impressive as well. This speech was before she was elected the Governor of Alaska. I am going to give you excerpts of that speech because it is quite long.
http://www.votesmart.org/speech_detail.php?sc_id=14247&keyword=&phrase=&contain=
PHILOSOPHY IN GOVERNING
I know that government has its place, and it should be limited. My focus is on education, public safety, infrastructure and access to our resources. As manager of our vast public resources, the Governor must act as an effective CEO on behalf of all Alaskans in negotiating the best deals for the state...
GASOLINE
The general application bill will set forth several key requirements for a natural gas line project, such as access to gas for Alaskan communities, jobs for Alaskans, pre-construction benchmarks, pipeline expansion provisions that ensure further exploration for natural gas, a reasonable tariff structure, and legislative approval. The law would contain an option for fiscal agreements with the state, as did the SGDA.
The bill will also set forth compelling incentives to qualified applicants, just as the federal government has already done. Incentives guarantee quick commencement of the gas line project, and could include accelerated state permitting, commitments for infrastructure support (public roads, airports, rail, bridges, etc.), and economic impact assistance for local communities.
Once we have established this open and competitive environment, all qualified applicants and proposals will have the right to compete fairly, with no organization being given preference over any other.
PERMANENT FUND
I oppose tapping the Permanent Fund without a vote of the people and will stand up against those who would use it to pay for expanding government. The Fund is the investment we leave to future generations. The dividend is an important part of our economy and for some families this income is critical to their survival.
COMMERCIAL FISHING
...I oppose actions that cut off Alaskans from our fisheries. I support successful marketing of our fantastic wild seafood and oppose fish farming near waters that affect Alaska. I will fairly appoint balanced fish and game boards and then let them do their job...
SMALL BUSINESS
Alaska's small business owners are the backbone of our regional economies. Small Alaskan-owned businesses should have just as much say in state policy as the big companies do. Our precious businesses are major employers of Alaskans and keep Alaska's money circulating through our economy. As Mayor and CEO of the booming city of Wasilla, my team invited investment and encouraged business growth by eliminating small business inventory taxes, eliminated personal property taxes, reduced real property tax mill levies every year I was in office, reduced fees, and built the infrastructure our businesses needed to grow and prosper.
TOURISM
I recognize the importance of Alaska's tourism industry and want to see more independent travelers "find" our great state. I support developing tourism infrastructure in rural communities that are inviting this economic development, and I'll work tirelessly to promote Alaska in a positive, responsible and respectful manner.
OPEN PIT MINING
As Governor, I will empower our state regulators, oversight officers, and scientists to do their jobs in all areas of resource development. I promise all Alaskans my administration will enforce the laws to the letter and insure protection of our fishing and environmental resources so they will not be compromised or endangered by development.
ALASKA'S SENIORS
I support funding our Seniors Longevity Bonus Program so the program can phase out on schedule, in agreement with public discussion years ago. The program was declining and it was a shame to see our esteemed pioneers face broken promises whey they were prematurely lopped off the program. I also support home and community based assistance programs, which are more cost effective than institutional alternatives and also allow seniors to stay in their homes and communities with dignity. Senior citizens will be respected in my administration and will receive our full respect and support. They are my delight and I will not let them down.
ALASKA'S MILITARY — Thank you military personnel! I support you. I respect our military personnel and understand the importance of Alaska's National Guard. As I watched our military men and women being deployed I recognized how important it is for their families to know how much Alaska and America support them. I believe in promoting from within to provide continued good leadership that truly understands Alaska and will partner with our elected leaders to support our troops.
HEALTH CARE — Obviously, high medical costs are hurting Alaskans and our Medicaid budget has quadrupled in the past 10 years. Solutions to this problem are complex, and no one person has all the answers. I look forward to working with affected parties to find the necessary solutions that will lead to more affordable health care for Alaskans. I support flexibility in government regulations that allow competition in health care that is needed, and is proven to be good for the consumer, which will drive down health care costs and reduce the need for government subsidies. I also support patients in their rightful demands to have access to full medical billing information.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
I will leverage job-training dollars through efficiencies in government, private sector partnerships, and responsible investments in job training opportunities that result in good jobs for Alaskans. I look forward to working with a cross section of citizen advisors who represent private sector employers' educational institutions, union and non-union training programs and other workforce development professionals on the Alaska Workforce Investment Board. With their advice, we can meet the rapidly growing need for trained workers. I am a strong proponent of vocational and technical curriculum in our schools and will focus on this area to get our workforce ready for the future. I don't want to see an importation of Alaska's workforce when we have untapped talent here in the state, anxious for training and anxious for the opportunity to work.
GUN RIGHTS
I am a lifetime member of the NRA, I support our Constitutional right to bear arms and am a proponent of gun safety programs for Alaska's youth.
PUBLIC SAFETY
I support adequate funding for a strong public safety presence in Alaska. Feeling safe in our communities is something we cannot accept any compromise on. This includes policing in all its forms, the court system, prosecutors and corrections. If the legislature passed a death penalty law, I would sign it. We have a right to know that someone who rapes and murders a child or kills an innocent person in a drive by shooting will never be able to do that again.
As you noticed I highlighted sections in each topic. I could go into an indepth study to why I highlighed these sections but they pretty much speak for themselves and do not need any special attention.
My impression of what I read was that Governor Palin will stand up for the United States and bring back to the White House the honor and integrity that we have lost.
Now I decided to look at the other inexperienced person running for office. That would be Senator Barack Obama. Once again I went to vote smart to find my answers.
Political Experience:
Senator, United States Senate, 2005-present
Keynote Speaker, 2004 Democratic National Convention
Senator, Illinois State Senate, 1996-2004.
Organizations:
Center for Neighborhood and Technology
Chicago Annenberg Challenge
Cook County Bar
Cook County Bar Association Community Law Project
President, Harvard Law Review
Board Member, Joyce Foundation
Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law
Leadership for Quality Education
Board Member, Woods Fund of Chicago.
Committees:
Foreign Relations, Member
Health, Education, Labor & Pensions, Member
Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, Member
Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, Member
Subcommittee on African Affairs, Member
Subcommittee on Children and Families, Member
Subcommittee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Member
Subcommittee on Employment and Workplace Safety, Member
Subcommittee on European Affairs, Chair
Subcommittee on Federal Financial Management, Government Information, Federal Services, and International Security, Member
Subcommittee on International Development and Foreign Assistance, Economic Affairs and International Environmental Protection, Member
Subcommittee on State, Local, and Private Sector Preparedness and Integration, Member
Veterans' Affairs, Member
Senator Obama's background is not bad either but there is one difference. Most of his experience has been during the time as a Senator. Also, you have to remember that he was not present for many of the meetings of these committees because he has been campaigning for the Presidential nomination. So, in my opinion that lessens the amount of experience he has in reality to become the President.
The other thing that I noticed is that the organizations that are listed almost 50% deal with lawyers. There is not much that deals with the average working class individual, in my opinion.
Now let us look at where he stands of the issues.
What I did was go to his Special Interest Groups ratings. This tells a better story of where he stands on issues that affect our daily lives. (I am going to apologize in advace because this list is rather long.)
Abortion Issues
2007 In 2007 NARAL Pro-Choice America gave Senator Obama a grade of 100.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Planned Parenthood 100 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association 100 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Right to Life Committee 0 percent in 2005-2006.
Agriculture Issues
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association of Wheat Growers 47 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Council of Agricultural Employers 20 percent in 2007.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Farm Bureau Federation 35 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Farmers Union 100 percent in 2005-2006.
Animal Rights and Wildlife Issues
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the The Humane Society of the United States 75 percent in 2007.
Budget, Spending and Taxes
2007 In 2007 Americans for Tax Reform gave Senator Obama a grade of 5.
2007 In 2007 National Taxpayers Union gave Senator Obama a grade of F.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the FreedomWorks 25 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Tax Limitation Committee 8 percent in 2005-2006.
Business and Consumers
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Business-Industry Political Action Committee 8 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce 33 percent in 2007.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Business-Industry Political Action Committee 10 percent in 2006.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association of Government Contractors 100 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association of Manufacturers 16 percent in 2005-2006. The following ratings indicate the degree that each elected official supported the interests of the organization in that year.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Federation of Independent Business 12 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Restaurant Association 38 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Retail Federation 17 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Small Business Association 28 percent in 2005-2006.
Civil Liberties and Civil Rights
2007 In 2007 American Civil Liberties Union gave Senator Obama a grade of 80.
2007 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to Arab American Institute's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 80.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights 85 percent in 2007.
Conservative
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Conservative Union 7 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Americans for Prosperity 9 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Conservative Index — The John Birch Society 0 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Eagle Forum 7 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the GOPUSA 7 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Composite Conservative Score 4.5 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Conservative on Economic Policy 0 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Conservative on Foreign Policy 7 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Conservative on Social Policy 0 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the The Club for Growth 33 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 Traditional Values Coalition gave Senator Obama a grade of 33.
Crime Issues
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Citizens United for Rehabilitation of Errants 70 percent in 2005-2006.
Drug Issues
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors 100 percent in 2005-2006.
Education
2007 In 2007 American Association of University Women gave Senator Obama a grade of 66.
2007 On the votes used to calculate its ratings, the Association For Supervision and Curriculum Development attaches more value to those votes it considers more important. For 2007, the Association For Supervision and Curriculum Development gave Senator Obama a rating of 100 percent.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association for College Admission Counseling 100 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 National Education Association gave Senator Obama a grade of A.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) 100 percent in 2007.
2005 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association of Elementary School Principals 0 percent in 2005.
Employment and Affirmative Action
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Employment Lawyers Association 100 percent in 2007.
Energy Issues
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Campaign for America's Future 100 percent in 2005-2006 on energy legislation.
Environmental Issues
2008 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Environment America 90 percent in 2008.
2007 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to American Land Rights Association's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 20.
2007 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to League of Conservation Voters's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 67.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Republicans for Environmental Protection percent in 2007.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Land Rights Association 11 percent in 2006.
Family and Children Issues
2007 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to Children's Defense Fund's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 60.
2007 In 2007 Family Research Council gave Senator Obama a grade of 0.
Federal, State, and Local Relations
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the The National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association 33 percent in 2007.
Foreign Aid and Policy Issues
2008 In 2008 Citizens for Global Solutions gave Senator Obama a grade of A.
2007 In 2007 Citizens for Global Solutions gave Senator Obama a grade of A+.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Council for a Livable World 81 percent in 2007.
2007 On the votes that the Latin America Working Group considered to be the most important in 2007, Senator Obama voted their preferred position 50 percent of the time.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Peace Action West 100 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007, The Genocide Intervention Network — Darfur Scores assigned Senator Obama a grade of A based on voting records, bill sponsorship and other activities related to ending the genocide in Darfur.
Government Reform
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the State PIRGs Working Together 86 percent in 2006.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the U.S. Public Interest Research Group 86 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Citizens Against Government Waste 13 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interest of the National Association of Counties 81 percent in 2005-2006.
2005 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Citizens Against Government Waste 13 percent in 2005.
Gun Issues
2007 In 2007 Gun Owners of America gave Senator Obama a rating of F.
Health Issues
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Alliance For Headache Disorders Advocacy 0 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Academy of Family Physicians 100 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Association of University Centers on Disabilites 100 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance gave Senator Obama a rating of 0.
2007 On the votes that the The Children's Health Fund considered to be the most important in 2007, Senator Obama voted their preferred position percent of the time.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Academy of General Dentistry 50 percent in 2006.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Public Health Association 100 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Breast Cancer Coalition 60 percent in 2005-2006.
Immigration
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the English First 0 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 U.S. English gave Senator Obama a grade of F.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Immigration Lawyers Association 88 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of Americans for Better Immigration 28 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Federation for American Immigration Reform 43 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Iranian American Political Action Committee 100 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the U.S. Border Control 8 percent in 2005-2006.
Labor
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the AFL-CIO 100 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 American Society of Landscape Architects gave Senator Obama a rating of .
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers Int 100 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Federally Employed Women 10 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 International Brotherhood of Boilermakers gave Senator Obama a grade of 50.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Service Employees International Union 75 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the United Auto Workers 62 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 Utility Workers Union of America gave Senator Obama a grade of 100.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees 100 percent in 2006.
2005 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors 0 percent in 2005.
Liberal
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Americans for Democratic Action 75 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Composite Liberal Score 95.5 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Liberal on Economic Policy 94 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Liberal on Foreign Policy 92 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Liberal on Social Policy 94 percent in 2007.
Military Issues
2005 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Women's Action for New Directions (WAND) and-WILL 66 percent in 2005.
National Security Issues
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Center for Security Policy 21 percent in 2005-2006.
Science and Medical Research
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology 0 percent in 2006.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Parkinsons Action Network 100 percent in 2006.
Senior and Social Security Issues
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Alliance for Retired Americans 100 percent in 2007.
Social Issues
2007 In 2007 Drum Major Institute for Public Policy gave Senator Obama a grade of A+.
2007 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to NETWORK, A National Catholic Social Justice Lobby's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 68.
2006 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to National Association of Social Workers's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 100.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Population Connection 100 percent in 2006.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Secular Coalition for America 90 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Population Action International 100 percent in 2005-2006.
Technology and Communication
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Computer & Communications Industry Association 86 percent in 2007.
Trade Issues
2005-2006 In 2005-2006 USA Engage gave Senator Obama a grade of C.
Transportation Issues
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Road and Transportation Builders Association 100 percent in 2005-2006.
Veterans Issues
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Disabled American Veterans 80 percent in 2006.
2006 In 2006 Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America gave Senator Obama a grade of B+.
2006 Senator Obama sponsored or co-sponsored 12 percent of the legislation favored by the The Retired Enlisted Association in 2006.
Welfare and Poverty
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the RESULTS 100 percent in 2005-2006.
Women's Issues
2007 In 2007 American Association of University Women gave Senator Obama a grade of 66.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Federally Employed Women 10 percent in 2007.
2007 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to League of Women Voters's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 100.
NOTE: How to Interpret these Evaluations:
Project Vote Smart collects performance evaluations from special interest groups who provide them, regardless of issue or bias. If you have any comments concerning performance evaluations or know of a group that provides ratings not included here, please contact us at ratings@vote-smart.org.
Keep in mind that ratings done by special interest groups are biased. They do not represent a non-partisan stance. In addition, some groups select votes that tend to favor members of one political party over another, rather than choosing votes based solely on issues concerns. Nevertheless, they can be invaluable in showing where an incumbent has stood on a series of votes in the past one or two years, especially when ratings by groups on all sides of an issue are compared. Website links, if available, and descriptions of the organizations offering performance evaluations are accessible by clicking on the name of the group.
Most performance evaluations are displayed in a percentage format. However, some organizations present their ratings in the form of a letter grade or endorsement based on voting records, interviews, survey results and/or sources of campaign funding. For consistency, Project Vote Smart converts all scores into a percentage when possible.
I am sorry that this is so long but I wanted to give you all the information you need to make an educated decision in November.
My opinion of my findings is that Governor Sarah Palin would be the better inexperienced person to lead us to change in the 21rst Century. I believe that she will look out for the interests of the United States citizen to promote changes that will bring jobs back and future prosperity.
It is too apparent that Senator Obama will create changes benefiting a larger government intrusion into our lives and taxation with more special interest group policies that we do not need.
I worry for my children and grandchildren because of the uncertain future we have at this point in time in this nation. True change comes with reform and I believe that true reform will come with Governor Sarah Palin and Senator John McCain.
© Cynthia A. Janak
I was not going to write an article about the election at this time but I received an email today with some pictures of Governor Palin. As I was looking at the pictures something did not look right so I did what I do best and did a search of every picture on the web. Here are my findings.
It looks pretty good to let you believe that she is standing there with a glass of wine in this outfit.
I thought this was a really good crop job.
I am now going to show you another set of pictures that show Governor Palin in a bad way. Once again you will see a great crop job was done. They even reversed her head to fit the pose.
Doesn't it remind you of the pictures of Oswald? That was the first thing that I thought of.
Now why would someone want to discredit this woman who has worked hard and, in my opinion, have real values and goals evidenced in her speech given when she was running for governor of Alaska.
Because of this email I had to find out why a democratic supporter does not like Governor Sarah Palin. I wanted to know why they would go to such. It did not take me long to find my answer.
I went to Project Vote Smart http://www.votesmart.org to find my information about Senator John McCain's Vice-Presidential pick. This is what I found.
http://www.votesmart.org/bio.php?can_id=27200
Political Experience:
Governor, Alaska, 2006-present
Former President, Alaska Conference of Mayors
Former Mayor/Manager, Wasilla City
Former Council Member, Wasilla City Council.
Organizations:
Member, Alaska Miners Association
Member, Alaska Outdoor Council
Member, Alaska Resource Development Council
Member, Chambers of Commerce (Various)
Member, Iditarod Parent-Teacher Association
Member, National Rifle Association
Member, Valley Hospital Association Board
Coach/Hockey Team Manager, Valley Youth Sports
Member, Youth Court Steering Committee
Former Member, American Management Association
Former Member, Salvation Army Board.
Caucuses/Non-Legislative Committees:
Chairman, Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, 2003-2004
Former Member, Alaska Municipal League Board
Chair, Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission
Vice Chair, National Governors Association Natural Resources Committee.
I find this to be a pretty impressive background for someone that is not experienced enough. Consider this; she was involved in the workings of her state before becoming Governor of Alaska. Now to her views on the issues. I found this to be impressive as well. This speech was before she was elected the Governor of Alaska. I am going to give you excerpts of that speech because it is quite long.
http://www.votesmart.org/speech_detail.php?sc_id=14247&keyword=&phrase=&contain=
PHILOSOPHY IN GOVERNING
I know that government has its place, and it should be limited. My focus is on education, public safety, infrastructure and access to our resources. As manager of our vast public resources, the Governor must act as an effective CEO on behalf of all Alaskans in negotiating the best deals for the state...
GASOLINE
The general application bill will set forth several key requirements for a natural gas line project, such as access to gas for Alaskan communities, jobs for Alaskans, pre-construction benchmarks, pipeline expansion provisions that ensure further exploration for natural gas, a reasonable tariff structure, and legislative approval. The law would contain an option for fiscal agreements with the state, as did the SGDA.
The bill will also set forth compelling incentives to qualified applicants, just as the federal government has already done. Incentives guarantee quick commencement of the gas line project, and could include accelerated state permitting, commitments for infrastructure support (public roads, airports, rail, bridges, etc.), and economic impact assistance for local communities.
Once we have established this open and competitive environment, all qualified applicants and proposals will have the right to compete fairly, with no organization being given preference over any other.
PERMANENT FUND
I oppose tapping the Permanent Fund without a vote of the people and will stand up against those who would use it to pay for expanding government. The Fund is the investment we leave to future generations. The dividend is an important part of our economy and for some families this income is critical to their survival.
COMMERCIAL FISHING
...I oppose actions that cut off Alaskans from our fisheries. I support successful marketing of our fantastic wild seafood and oppose fish farming near waters that affect Alaska. I will fairly appoint balanced fish and game boards and then let them do their job...
SMALL BUSINESS
Alaska's small business owners are the backbone of our regional economies. Small Alaskan-owned businesses should have just as much say in state policy as the big companies do. Our precious businesses are major employers of Alaskans and keep Alaska's money circulating through our economy. As Mayor and CEO of the booming city of Wasilla, my team invited investment and encouraged business growth by eliminating small business inventory taxes, eliminated personal property taxes, reduced real property tax mill levies every year I was in office, reduced fees, and built the infrastructure our businesses needed to grow and prosper.
TOURISM
I recognize the importance of Alaska's tourism industry and want to see more independent travelers "find" our great state. I support developing tourism infrastructure in rural communities that are inviting this economic development, and I'll work tirelessly to promote Alaska in a positive, responsible and respectful manner.
OPEN PIT MINING
As Governor, I will empower our state regulators, oversight officers, and scientists to do their jobs in all areas of resource development. I promise all Alaskans my administration will enforce the laws to the letter and insure protection of our fishing and environmental resources so they will not be compromised or endangered by development.
ALASKA'S SENIORS
I support funding our Seniors Longevity Bonus Program so the program can phase out on schedule, in agreement with public discussion years ago. The program was declining and it was a shame to see our esteemed pioneers face broken promises whey they were prematurely lopped off the program. I also support home and community based assistance programs, which are more cost effective than institutional alternatives and also allow seniors to stay in their homes and communities with dignity. Senior citizens will be respected in my administration and will receive our full respect and support. They are my delight and I will not let them down.
ALASKA'S MILITARY — Thank you military personnel! I support you. I respect our military personnel and understand the importance of Alaska's National Guard. As I watched our military men and women being deployed I recognized how important it is for their families to know how much Alaska and America support them. I believe in promoting from within to provide continued good leadership that truly understands Alaska and will partner with our elected leaders to support our troops.
HEALTH CARE — Obviously, high medical costs are hurting Alaskans and our Medicaid budget has quadrupled in the past 10 years. Solutions to this problem are complex, and no one person has all the answers. I look forward to working with affected parties to find the necessary solutions that will lead to more affordable health care for Alaskans. I support flexibility in government regulations that allow competition in health care that is needed, and is proven to be good for the consumer, which will drive down health care costs and reduce the need for government subsidies. I also support patients in their rightful demands to have access to full medical billing information.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
I will leverage job-training dollars through efficiencies in government, private sector partnerships, and responsible investments in job training opportunities that result in good jobs for Alaskans. I look forward to working with a cross section of citizen advisors who represent private sector employers' educational institutions, union and non-union training programs and other workforce development professionals on the Alaska Workforce Investment Board. With their advice, we can meet the rapidly growing need for trained workers. I am a strong proponent of vocational and technical curriculum in our schools and will focus on this area to get our workforce ready for the future. I don't want to see an importation of Alaska's workforce when we have untapped talent here in the state, anxious for training and anxious for the opportunity to work.
GUN RIGHTS
I am a lifetime member of the NRA, I support our Constitutional right to bear arms and am a proponent of gun safety programs for Alaska's youth.
PUBLIC SAFETY
I support adequate funding for a strong public safety presence in Alaska. Feeling safe in our communities is something we cannot accept any compromise on. This includes policing in all its forms, the court system, prosecutors and corrections. If the legislature passed a death penalty law, I would sign it. We have a right to know that someone who rapes and murders a child or kills an innocent person in a drive by shooting will never be able to do that again.
As you noticed I highlighted sections in each topic. I could go into an indepth study to why I highlighed these sections but they pretty much speak for themselves and do not need any special attention.
My impression of what I read was that Governor Palin will stand up for the United States and bring back to the White House the honor and integrity that we have lost.
Now I decided to look at the other inexperienced person running for office. That would be Senator Barack Obama. Once again I went to vote smart to find my answers.
Political Experience:
Senator, United States Senate, 2005-present
Keynote Speaker, 2004 Democratic National Convention
Senator, Illinois State Senate, 1996-2004.
Organizations:
Center for Neighborhood and Technology
Chicago Annenberg Challenge
Cook County Bar
Cook County Bar Association Community Law Project
President, Harvard Law Review
Board Member, Joyce Foundation
Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law
Leadership for Quality Education
Board Member, Woods Fund of Chicago.
Committees:
Foreign Relations, Member
Health, Education, Labor & Pensions, Member
Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, Member
Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, Member
Subcommittee on African Affairs, Member
Subcommittee on Children and Families, Member
Subcommittee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Member
Subcommittee on Employment and Workplace Safety, Member
Subcommittee on European Affairs, Chair
Subcommittee on Federal Financial Management, Government Information, Federal Services, and International Security, Member
Subcommittee on International Development and Foreign Assistance, Economic Affairs and International Environmental Protection, Member
Subcommittee on State, Local, and Private Sector Preparedness and Integration, Member
Veterans' Affairs, Member
Senator Obama's background is not bad either but there is one difference. Most of his experience has been during the time as a Senator. Also, you have to remember that he was not present for many of the meetings of these committees because he has been campaigning for the Presidential nomination. So, in my opinion that lessens the amount of experience he has in reality to become the President.
The other thing that I noticed is that the organizations that are listed almost 50% deal with lawyers. There is not much that deals with the average working class individual, in my opinion.
Now let us look at where he stands of the issues.
What I did was go to his Special Interest Groups ratings. This tells a better story of where he stands on issues that affect our daily lives. (I am going to apologize in advace because this list is rather long.)
Abortion Issues
2007 In 2007 NARAL Pro-Choice America gave Senator Obama a grade of 100.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Planned Parenthood 100 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association 100 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Right to Life Committee 0 percent in 2005-2006.
Agriculture Issues
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association of Wheat Growers 47 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Council of Agricultural Employers 20 percent in 2007.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Farm Bureau Federation 35 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Farmers Union 100 percent in 2005-2006.
Animal Rights and Wildlife Issues
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the The Humane Society of the United States 75 percent in 2007.
Budget, Spending and Taxes
2007 In 2007 Americans for Tax Reform gave Senator Obama a grade of 5.
2007 In 2007 National Taxpayers Union gave Senator Obama a grade of F.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the FreedomWorks 25 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Tax Limitation Committee 8 percent in 2005-2006.
Business and Consumers
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Business-Industry Political Action Committee 8 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce 33 percent in 2007.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Business-Industry Political Action Committee 10 percent in 2006.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association of Government Contractors 100 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association of Manufacturers 16 percent in 2005-2006. The following ratings indicate the degree that each elected official supported the interests of the organization in that year.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Federation of Independent Business 12 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Restaurant Association 38 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Retail Federation 17 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Small Business Association 28 percent in 2005-2006.
Civil Liberties and Civil Rights
2007 In 2007 American Civil Liberties Union gave Senator Obama a grade of 80.
2007 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to Arab American Institute's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 80.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights 85 percent in 2007.
Conservative
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Conservative Union 7 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Americans for Prosperity 9 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Conservative Index — The John Birch Society 0 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Eagle Forum 7 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the GOPUSA 7 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Composite Conservative Score 4.5 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Conservative on Economic Policy 0 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Conservative on Foreign Policy 7 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Conservative on Social Policy 0 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the The Club for Growth 33 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 Traditional Values Coalition gave Senator Obama a grade of 33.
Crime Issues
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Citizens United for Rehabilitation of Errants 70 percent in 2005-2006.
Drug Issues
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors 100 percent in 2005-2006.
Education
2007 In 2007 American Association of University Women gave Senator Obama a grade of 66.
2007 On the votes used to calculate its ratings, the Association For Supervision and Curriculum Development attaches more value to those votes it considers more important. For 2007, the Association For Supervision and Curriculum Development gave Senator Obama a rating of 100 percent.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association for College Admission Counseling 100 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 National Education Association gave Senator Obama a grade of A.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) 100 percent in 2007.
2005 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association of Elementary School Principals 0 percent in 2005.
Employment and Affirmative Action
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Employment Lawyers Association 100 percent in 2007.
Energy Issues
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Campaign for America's Future 100 percent in 2005-2006 on energy legislation.
Environmental Issues
2008 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Environment America 90 percent in 2008.
2007 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to American Land Rights Association's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 20.
2007 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to League of Conservation Voters's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 67.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Republicans for Environmental Protection percent in 2007.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Land Rights Association 11 percent in 2006.
Family and Children Issues
2007 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to Children's Defense Fund's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 60.
2007 In 2007 Family Research Council gave Senator Obama a grade of 0.
Federal, State, and Local Relations
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the The National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association 33 percent in 2007.
Foreign Aid and Policy Issues
2008 In 2008 Citizens for Global Solutions gave Senator Obama a grade of A.
2007 In 2007 Citizens for Global Solutions gave Senator Obama a grade of A+.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Council for a Livable World 81 percent in 2007.
2007 On the votes that the Latin America Working Group considered to be the most important in 2007, Senator Obama voted their preferred position 50 percent of the time.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Peace Action West 100 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007, The Genocide Intervention Network — Darfur Scores assigned Senator Obama a grade of A based on voting records, bill sponsorship and other activities related to ending the genocide in Darfur.
Government Reform
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the State PIRGs Working Together 86 percent in 2006.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the U.S. Public Interest Research Group 86 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Citizens Against Government Waste 13 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interest of the National Association of Counties 81 percent in 2005-2006.
2005 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Citizens Against Government Waste 13 percent in 2005.
Gun Issues
2007 In 2007 Gun Owners of America gave Senator Obama a rating of F.
Health Issues
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Alliance For Headache Disorders Advocacy 0 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Academy of Family Physicians 100 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Association of University Centers on Disabilites 100 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance gave Senator Obama a rating of 0.
2007 On the votes that the The Children's Health Fund considered to be the most important in 2007, Senator Obama voted their preferred position percent of the time.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Academy of General Dentistry 50 percent in 2006.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Public Health Association 100 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Breast Cancer Coalition 60 percent in 2005-2006.
Immigration
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the English First 0 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 U.S. English gave Senator Obama a grade of F.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Immigration Lawyers Association 88 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of Americans for Better Immigration 28 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Federation for American Immigration Reform 43 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Iranian American Political Action Committee 100 percent in 2005-2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the U.S. Border Control 8 percent in 2005-2006.
Labor
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the AFL-CIO 100 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 American Society of Landscape Architects gave Senator Obama a rating of .
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers Int 100 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Federally Employed Women 10 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 International Brotherhood of Boilermakers gave Senator Obama a grade of 50.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Service Employees International Union 75 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the United Auto Workers 62 percent in 2007.
2007 In 2007 Utility Workers Union of America gave Senator Obama a grade of 100.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees 100 percent in 2006.
2005 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors 0 percent in 2005.
Liberal
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Americans for Democratic Action 75 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Composite Liberal Score 95.5 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Liberal on Economic Policy 94 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Liberal on Foreign Policy 92 percent in 2007.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the National Journal — Liberal on Social Policy 94 percent in 2007.
Military Issues
2005 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Women's Action for New Directions (WAND) and-WILL 66 percent in 2005.
National Security Issues
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Center for Security Policy 21 percent in 2005-2006.
Science and Medical Research
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology 0 percent in 2006.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Parkinsons Action Network 100 percent in 2006.
Senior and Social Security Issues
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Alliance for Retired Americans 100 percent in 2007.
Social Issues
2007 In 2007 Drum Major Institute for Public Policy gave Senator Obama a grade of A+.
2007 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to NETWORK, A National Catholic Social Justice Lobby's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 68.
2006 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to National Association of Social Workers's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 100.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Population Connection 100 percent in 2006.
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Secular Coalition for America 90 percent in 2006.
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Population Action International 100 percent in 2005-2006.
Technology and Communication
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Computer & Communications Industry Association 86 percent in 2007.
Trade Issues
2005-2006 In 2005-2006 USA Engage gave Senator Obama a grade of C.
Transportation Issues
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the American Road and Transportation Builders Association 100 percent in 2005-2006.
Veterans Issues
2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Disabled American Veterans 80 percent in 2006.
2006 In 2006 Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America gave Senator Obama a grade of B+.
2006 Senator Obama sponsored or co-sponsored 12 percent of the legislation favored by the The Retired Enlisted Association in 2006.
Welfare and Poverty
2005-2006 Senator Obama supported the interests of the RESULTS 100 percent in 2005-2006.
Women's Issues
2007 In 2007 American Association of University Women gave Senator Obama a grade of 66.
2007 Senator Obama supported the interests of the Federally Employed Women 10 percent in 2007.
2007 Based on a point system, with points assigned for actions in support of or in opposition to League of Women Voters's position, Senator Obama received a rating of 100.
NOTE: How to Interpret these Evaluations:
Project Vote Smart collects performance evaluations from special interest groups who provide them, regardless of issue or bias. If you have any comments concerning performance evaluations or know of a group that provides ratings not included here, please contact us at ratings@vote-smart.org.
Keep in mind that ratings done by special interest groups are biased. They do not represent a non-partisan stance. In addition, some groups select votes that tend to favor members of one political party over another, rather than choosing votes based solely on issues concerns. Nevertheless, they can be invaluable in showing where an incumbent has stood on a series of votes in the past one or two years, especially when ratings by groups on all sides of an issue are compared. Website links, if available, and descriptions of the organizations offering performance evaluations are accessible by clicking on the name of the group.
Most performance evaluations are displayed in a percentage format. However, some organizations present their ratings in the form of a letter grade or endorsement based on voting records, interviews, survey results and/or sources of campaign funding. For consistency, Project Vote Smart converts all scores into a percentage when possible.
I am sorry that this is so long but I wanted to give you all the information you need to make an educated decision in November.
My opinion of my findings is that Governor Sarah Palin would be the better inexperienced person to lead us to change in the 21rst Century. I believe that she will look out for the interests of the United States citizen to promote changes that will bring jobs back and future prosperity.
It is too apparent that Senator Obama will create changes benefiting a larger government intrusion into our lives and taxation with more special interest group policies that we do not need.
I worry for my children and grandchildren because of the uncertain future we have at this point in time in this nation. True change comes with reform and I believe that true reform will come with Governor Sarah Palin and Senator John McCain.
© Cynthia A. Janak
The views expressed by RenewAmerica columnists are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of RenewAmerica or its affiliates.
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