December 2008 Archives

"Oh, well, you know, we have thought about this because part of what we want to do is to open up the White House and, and remind people this is, this is the people's house. There is an incredible bully pulpit to be used when it comes to, for example, education. Yes, we're going to have an education policy. Yes, we're going to be putting more money into school construction.

But, ultimately, we want to talk about parents reading to their kids. We want to invite kids from local schools into the White House.

When it comes to science, elevating science once again, and having lectures in the White House where people are talking about traveling to the stars or breaking down atoms, inspiring our youth to get a sense of what discovery is all about.

Thinking about the diversity of our culture and, and inviting jazz musicians and classical musicians and poetry readings in the White House so that, once again, we appreciate this incredible tapestry that's America. I -- you know, that, I think, is, is going to be incredibly important, particularly because we're going through hard times. And, historically, what has always brought us through hard times is that national character, that sense of optimism, that willingness to look forward, that, that sense that better days are ahead.

I think that our art and our culture, our science, you know, that's the essence of what makes America special, and, and we want to project that as much as possible in the White House."

-Barack Obama on the potential educational power of a White House lecture series. Meet the Press, December 7, 2008.

Amen!

It has been a month since the presidential election, and I am still shocked that California voters passed Prop 8. What the fuck, California?!? I am still waiting to see how gay marriage is going to destroy my marriage, as is hysterically prognosticated by the Religious Right. How, exactly? Can someone please tell me how two people who love one another and only want to commit to a life together threatens my marriage, which, according to the divorce calculator on divorce360.com, has a 10% chance of failing in the next five years anyway?

There is not a fiber in my being that believes, let alone comprehends, the "sanctity of marriage" bullshit. Sorry. I ain't buying it. Marriage is complicated and beautiful and for everyone who actually wants to make that commitment, it should be an available option. Taking that right away from any individual is to spit on the principles of freedom, liberty, and justice.

Because I am now fuming, I pass along some musical theater to cut the rancor.

President-elect Barack Obama announced national security and diplomacy team this morning, including his widely leaked pick for secretary of state, Hillary Clinton. This is a very interesting turn for a very interesting administration, tapping a campaign foe for a very high profile and (in the current decrepit state of diplomatic affairs) active position.

Senator Clinton is most certainly qualified for the job and has proved herself to be a talented statesperson over the course of her husband's presidency and her career as senator. Obama has wisely brought into the fold another intelligent and experienced voice who will, no doubt, challenge his positions.

What remains to be seen, however, is just what role Bill Clinton (and his ego) will play. He displayed a petulant, spoiled character on the campaign trail that was, frankly, unbecoming of his legacy (his inability to say Obama's name, even while ostensibly campaigning for him, was beyond childish). It is well known that the man doesn't appreciate sitting on the sidelines of history, lest he be forgotten. He could be a powerful partner or it could degenerate into the Bill Clinton Show Redux. I loved the man as President but I have always questioned if the man can concede the spotlight to his wife. I hope so.

Here are the rest of Obama's nominated positions:
Retired Marine Gen. James Jones for White House national security adviser
Former Justice Department official Eric Holder for attorney general
Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano for secretary of homeland security
Susan Rice for UN Ambassador